Vegetarian Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Thursday, October 15, 2015

Cookies!

Is there ever a time when cookies don't hit the spot? Here are six cookie recipes to try. Enjoy!

OATMEAL CRANBERRY CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

This comes from One Green Planet's e-newsletter. This vegan, gluten-free, dairy free recipe makes 21 cookies. The recipe starts out, “The slight crunch from the brown sugar, the texture of the oats, and the tart from the cranberries, along with the decadence of the chocolate chips make this cookie very special indeed. If Santa's looking for a change-up from his traditional chocolate chip cookies, or if you're searching for a special treat to share with your loved ones, these holiday cookies are sure to touch that special place in your heart. Package them up with a pretty bow, made from any number of upcycled materials, and you'll have a meaningful homemade gift anyone would love to receive.”

The recipe writer mentioned several brands that he or she uses in this recipe; I've included these in parentheses, but if you have a favorite brand to use in place of what the recipe writer uses, feel free to. Be advised, though, that if using non-gluten-free flour, the recipe, of course, won't be gluten-free.

To view this online, click here.

1 Tbsp. Ground flaxseed meal

3 Tbsp. water

1 1/2 cups gluten-free old fashioned oats

1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (like Bob's Red Mill GF All Purpose Baking Flour)

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. sea salt

2/3 cup vegan butter substitute (like Earth Balance Organic Whipped Buttery Spread)

3/4 cup brown sugar

4 oz. Package sweetened dried cranberries (such as Newman's Own Organic Dried Cranberries)

2/3 cup semi-sweet dairy-free chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Line a baking sheet with a silpat to prevent sticking, if desired. (Note: I usually use parchment paper.)

In a small bowl, make a flaxseed egg by combining flaxseed meal and water, stir and set aside.

In a medium bowl, add dry ingredients: gluten-free oats, gluten-free flour, baking soda and salt. Whisk to sift and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl add vegan butter substitute and brown sugar and beat until fluffy.

Mix in flaxseed egg until combined.

Slowly mix in dry ingredients until combined.

Stir in cranberries and non-dairy chocolate chips.

Drip spoonfuls of cookie dough onto cookie sheet.

Bake approximately 10 – 12 minutes.

CHOCOLATE CHIP SHORTBREAD

This comes from the November/December 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 45. It starts off, “Rich, buttery shortbread is an ideal holiday cookie option because it keeps well and is sturdy enough to pack into gift baskets or send to faraway friends and family. For party preparation, either premeasure ingredients and combine on-site, or make the dough, press into the pan, and bake when you arrive.” Makes 60 cookies.

This can be viewe online at here.

3 2⁄3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1/2 tsp. salt

1 lb. (4 sticks) butter, softened

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup real maple syrup

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips, divided

Preheat oven to 325°F. Whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt in large bowl, and set aside. Beat butter, sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract with electric mixer 4 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Add flour mixture and mix until combined. Stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips.

Transfer dough to 15- x 11-inch ungreased jelly-roll pan. Press dough smooth with fingers, and prick all over with fork. Bake 35 minutes, or until edges just begin to brown and dough looks slightly firm. Remove from oven and, using thin knife, cut shortbread into approximately 3- x 1-inch pieces in pan. (First cut 4 3-inch rows lengthwise; then cut 1-inch pieces crosswise.) Allow shortbread to cool completely in pan on wire rack.

Meanwhile, melt remaining 1 cup chocolate chips in top of double boiler on low heat, or melt in glass bowl in microwave 30 seconds to1 minute. Spread melted chocolate onto shortbread, spreading almost to edges. Refrigerate 15 to 20 minutes to allow chocolate topping to set. Break apart, and serve.

nutritional information Per Cookie: Calories: 125; Protein: 1 g; Total Fat: 7.5 g; Saturated Fat: 4.5 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Cholesterol: 16 mg; Sodium: 64 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 7 g

LEMONY LINZER COOKIES

This recipe is from the December 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 57. It starts off, “Nut flours are common ingredients in Central and Eastern European cookies such as this Austrian favorite.” Makes 24 cookies.

To view this online, click here.

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup almond flour

1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, plus more for dusting

4 oz. Earth Balance margarine, cut into cubes (1 stick)

2 Tbs. agave nectar

2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1 1/2 tsp. egg replacer powder, such as Ener-G

1/2 tsp. almond extract

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 cup raspberry jam or preserves, seeds preferred

Combine all-purpose flour, almond flour, and confectioners’ sugar in bowl. Add margarine, and mix with electric mixer on low until mixture is crumbly.

Whisk together agave nectar, lemon zest, egg replacer, and 2 Tbs. water in small bowl. Stir in almond extract and vanilla extract. Add agave mixture to flour mixture, and beat until just combined. Shape dough into smooth disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate 1 hour or up to 10 days.

Preheat oven to 350°F, and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper, or coat with cooking spray.

Roll dough out to 1/4-inch thickness on well-floured work surface. Cut dough into 48 hearts using 2-inch heart-shaped cutter. Transfer hearts to baking sheets. Cut heart-shaped holes in centers of 24 cookies using 1-inch heart-shaped cutter. Bake 5 to 6 minutes, or until cookies begin to brown around edges. (Cookies with holes will cook faster.) Cool on baking sheets 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer to wire rack with spatula to cool.

Return cookies with holes to baking sheet, and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Line up remaining cookies on work surface. Spoon 1 tsp. raspberry jam on top of each solid cookie. Place confectioners’ sugar-dusted cookies on top.

nutritional information Per Cookie: Calories: 110; Protein: 2 g; Total Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 42 mg; Fiber: less than 1 g; Sugar: 7 g; Vegan

OATMEAL COOKIES

These come from Healing Heart Foundation. This, as well as other yummy recipes, can be found by following the link for Recipes on the left-hand side of the page.

1 C mashed bananas

1 C confectioners (finely powdered) sugar

1 C brown sugar

1 T egg replacer + 1/4 cup water

1 t vanilla

1/2 t salt

1 t baking soda

2 C whole wheat pastry flour

2 1/2 C oats, rolled or steel cut or for oatmeal

2 or 3 C raisins, dates, chocolate chips, carob chips, dried fruit in any combination

Thoroughly blend bananas and sugars. Add egg replacer & water and beat thoroughly. Add in vanilla, salt, baking soda, flour, and oats, beating at medium speed after each addition. Stir in other ingredients. Press golf ball size scoops onto a non-stick baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake at 400° F. for 8-10 minutes or until brown. Allow time to cool completely. Makes about 2 dozen cookies, depending on size.

Per cookie: Calories 155, Fat 4.80 (7% cff), Carbohydrate 140.2 g., Protein 12.96 g.

RASPBERRY-HAZELNUT THUMBPRINT COOKIES

From the December 2014 Vegetarian Times, p.65. This one starts off, “Oat flour, rice flour, and toasted nuts make a tender gluten-free cookie with a little crunch.” Makes 24 cookies

To click this online, click here.

1 1/2 cups oat flour

1/2 cup finely chopped roasted hazelnuts

1/2 cup coarsely chopped roasted hazelnuts

1/2 cup white rice flour

1/2 tsp. baking powder

8 oz. (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1 large egg

1/4 cup raspberry jam

Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Stir together oat flour, hazelnuts, rice flour, and baking powder in medium bowl. Set aside.

Cream butter and sugar in large bowl with electric mixer until smooth. Add egg, and beat until soft and creamy. Reduce mixer speed to low, and add oat flour mixture. Beat until just combined.

Use 1-oz. (2 Tbs.) ice cream or cookie scoop to shape dough into walnut-size balls, and place on baking sheet 3 inches apart. Gently press each ball in center with thumb to make small wells. Spoon 1/2 tsp. raspberry jam into each thumbprint well.

Bake cookies 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheet. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, then transfer to storage container.

nutritional information Per Cookie: Calories: 163; Protein: 2 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Cholesterol: 28 mg; Sodium: 16 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 7 g; Gluten-Free

TRIPLE CHOCOLATE-CHERRY COOKIES

This one comes from page 62 of the November 2014 issue of Vegetarian Times. It starts off, “Cocoa powder, cocoa nibs, dried cherries, and white chocolate chips come together in a rich, tender cookie that’s as easy to make as traditional chocolate-chip cookies.” Makes 36 cookies.

To view this online, click here.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 tsp. baking soda

7 oz. (14 Tbs.) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup plus 2 Tbs. sugar

3 Tbs. strong coffee or espresso

1 1/2 cups dried cherries

1 cup white chocolate chips

1/2 cup cocoa nibs

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda in large bowl.

Cream butter and sugar in separate bowl with electric mixer. Add coffee, and beat until smooth. Beat in flour mixture. Stir in cherries, chocolate chips, and cocoa nibs.

Use 1-oz. (2 Tbs.) ice cream or cookie scoop to shape dough into balls, and place on baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake 8 to 12 minutes, or until centers look dry. Cool on baking sheets, then transfer to storage container.

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Wednesday Recipes

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I find it easier to fix meatless meals than those with meat. That said, here are another six recipes to try. Enjoy!

CUMIN AND LIME ROASTED SWEET POTATOES

This is from the September 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 66. The recipe, which serves 4, begins, “Children’s and youth pastor Jennifer Plantenberg found inspiration from the food she had on hand one evening when she lacked a plan for dinner. 'Last winter, I was using sweet potatoes a lot, so we had several sweet potatoes. My family also really loves cilantro, so we almost always have some in the fridge,' she says. 'It’s great to throw this combination into a tortilla with some black beans and avocado for a quick lunch.'”

To view this online, click here.

1 large sweet potato or garnet yam (1 1/4 lb.), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 large yellow onion, coarsely chopped (2 cups)

1 tsp. Eden Organic safflower oil

2 tsp. Simply Organic ground cumin

1 tsp. Simply Organic paprika

1 lime, halved

1/3 cup chopped cilantro

Preheat oven to 425°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper, or coat with cooking spray. Toss sweet potato and onion with oil on prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with cumin and paprika, and season with salt, if desired. Squeeze juice of 1/2 lime over sweet potato and onion. Roast 45 minutes to 1 hour, tossing halfway through cooking time.

Remove vegetables from oven; squeeze juice of remaining 1/2 lime over top, and sprinkle with cilantro.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 135; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 29 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 36 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 10 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

TWO-TONE POTATO SALAD WITH WALNUT-TARRAGON VINAIGRETTE

This comes from the September 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 44. It starts out, “When half of the vinaigrette for this meal-size salad is poured over the hot potatoes, it soaks into the spuds and flavors them before the final layer of dressing is added.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

Walnut-Tarragon Vinaigrette

2 Tbs. cider vinegar

1 Tbs. Dijon mustard

4 Tbs. olive oil

2 Tbs. walnut oil

1 tsp. dried tarragon

1/2 tsp. salt, optional

1/4 cup finely chopped shallot or red onion

Two-Tone Potato Salad

3 medium boiling potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice

1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice

2 cups arugula

1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup finely diced celery

1/2 cup toasted walnut pieces

To make Walnut-Tarragon Vinaigrette: Whisk together vinegar and mustard in small bowl. Whisk in olive oil and walnut oil. Whisk in tarragon and salt (if using). Stir in shallot. Set aside to allow flavors to develop.

To make Two-Tone Potato Salad: Place boiling potatoes in pot with enough salted water to cover by 1 inch, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 5 to 6 minutes, or until just tender. Drain, and transfer to large bowl.

Place sweet potato in separate pot with enough salted water to cover by 1 inch, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 4 to 5 minutes, or until just tender. Drain, and transfer to bowl with boiling potatoes.

Toss both types of hot potatoes with half of Walnut-Tarragon Vinaigrette in large bowl. Cool salad completely. Stir in arugula, tomatoes, celery, walnuts, and remaining vinaigrette just before serving.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 293; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 19 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 28 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 191 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 5 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

SWEET POTATOES WITH SAGE AND CRANBERRIES

This comes from Publix Supermarket's Entertaining magazine (possibly the winter 2005 issue).

2 1/2 - 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into eighths

1/2 C finely chopped onion

1/4 C butter

1 Tbs snipped fresh sage or 1 tsp ground sage

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 C dried cranberries

1/4 C half-and-half or light cream

In Dutch oven place potatoes & enough salted water to cover. Bring to boil, reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook onion in hot butter over medium heat until tender. Add sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute. Stir in cranberries. Remove from heat.

Drain potatoes. Return to Dutch oven. Add half-and-half; mash with potato masher or beat with electric mixer on low speed until smooth. Stir in onion-sage mixture. Makes 6 servings.

Nutrition facts per serving: 225 cal, 9 g total fat (5 g sat. fat), 25 mg chol., 274 mg sodium, 34 g carbo., 5 g fiber, 3 g protein.

SOUTH AMERICAN SQUASH AND VEGETABLE RAGOUT

This is from the October 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 64. According to the recipe, “This veg version of an Argentinean stew (carbonada criolla) is perfect for when the weather turns chilly. The filling can be made up to two days ahead, then baked in acorn squash shells just before serving.” Serves 4.

To view this online, click here.

6 dried pitted apricots

4 dried pitted prunes

6 small acorn or butternut squash

1 Tbs. olive oil, plus more for coating squash

1 small Spanish onion, diced (1 cup)

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

2 tsp. dried oregano

1 small red bell pepper, diced (1 cup)

1 14.5-oz. can whole tomatoes, coarsely chopped, juice reserved

1 small Yukon gold potato, peeled and diced (1 cup)

1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced (1 cup)

1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels

1 15-oz. can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Place apricots and prunes in bowl, and cover with 1 cup boiling water. Soak 2 hours, or overnight. Drain, and coarsely chop fruit, reserving liquid.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray. Cut circular opening in squash tops, and reserve tops. Cut small slices off bottoms of squash so they stand up straight. Scoop out and discard seeds and fiber from squash. Rub outsides of squash shells and lids with oil, and place on prepared baking sheet.

Heat 1 Tbs. oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and oregano; sauté 2 to 3 minutes. Add bell pepper and tomatoes and juice; cook 2 to 3 minutes. Add potato, sweet potato, and reserved apricot-prune soaking liquid, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until potatoes are almost soft. Add corn and apricot-prune mixture, and simmer 2 to 3 minutes more. Add beans, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Simmer 5 minutes more.

Ladle 1 cup stew into each hollowed squash; place lid on top. Bake 60 to 90 minutes, or until fork can easily pierce through squash.

nutritional information Per 1 cup stew: Calories: 376; Protein: 10 g; Total Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 84 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 298 mg; Fiber: 14 g; Sugar: 23 g; Vegan Gluten-Free

STIR-FRIED BROCCOLI WITH BELL PEPPERS AND CASHEWS

This is from the September 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 63, and starts off, “This colorful vegetable medley is a feast for the eyes. Serve over rice, rice noodles, or egg noodles.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less

2 Tbs. low-sodium tamari or soy sauce

1 tsp. light brown sugar or agave nectar

1 tsp. unseasoned rice vinegar

1/2 tsp. chile-garlic sauce, optional

1 Tbs. canola oil

1 small onion, quartered and thinly sliced

2 cups broccoli florets

1 cup sliced carrots

1 1/2 cups sliced button or shiitake mushrooms

1 1/2 cups sliced red bell peppers

1 cup raw cashews

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

1 Tbs. minced fresh ginger

1/4 cup sliced green onions, for sprinkling

Combine tamari, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and chile-garlic sauce (if using) in small bowl, and set aside.

Heat oil in large wok or skillet over high heat. Add onion, and stir-fry 1 to 2 minutes, or until softened. Add broccoli and carrots, and stir-fry 3 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, and cashews, and stir-fry 3 to 4 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add garlic and ginger, and stir-fry 30 seconds. Add sauce, and stir-fry 1 minute. Sprinkle with green onions.

nutritional information Per 1 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 250; Protein: 9 g; Total Fat: 16 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 384 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 7 g; Vegan

Being a vegetarian, I love Meatless Monday. I realize that on other days, I do post an occasional meat recipe, since I live with meat-eaters. Fortunately, they are slowly eating less and less meat, maybe because I do the majority of the cooking here. Such is life! But even many of those who regularly eat meat are finding Meatless Monday easy enough to get through. Whether you’re a regular meat-eater or a vegetarian, today’s recipes should hit the spot. Enjoy!

ANYTIME BLACK FORREST BLIZZARD

This was in the September 2012 issue of Runner’s World, page 50. Contributing chef Pam Anderson comes up with quite a few really yummy recipes. This recipe starts off, “Plain Greek yogurt has roughly twice the protein and half the sugar of plan traditional yogurt. Cherries contain antioxidants that help reduce postrun inflammation. ‘To add crunch, stir in Famous Chocolate Wafers,’ says Anderson.”

I doubt that Pam is reading this, but if she is, all I can say is: Keep it up, please!

1 heaping cup frozen, dark sweet cherries

1 frozen banana, cut into chunks

1 C chocolate soymilk

1/4 C Greek yogurt

2 tsp honey or agave syrup

1/4 tsp almond extract

4 Famous Chocolate Wafers, crumbled

Place all the ingredients – except the Famous Chocolate Wafers – in a blender; process until creamy smooth. Divide between two glasses. Top each with a portion of crumbled Famous Chocolate Wafers. Serves two.

Calories per serving: 273; Carbs: 54 g; Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 7 g; Fat: 4 g

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Tuesday Recipes

Enjoy!

7-LAYER MEATLESS TORTILLA PIE

Tortillas without meat? Yes, most assuredly! This yummy recipe is from FamilyTime.com, and begins, “Black beans and pinto beans are flavored with Pace® Picante Sauce and seasonings to make separate and delicious bean mixtures, which are then layered with flour tortillas and Cheddar cheese, and baked until hot, but into wedges and served.” Prep time: 20 minutes; Cooking time: 40 minutes; Serves: 6 servings (1 wedge each)

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 cans (about 15 ounces each), pinto beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup Pace® Picante Sauce

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, or 1 clove garlic, minced

2 tablespoons choped fresh cilantro leaves

1 can (about 15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 small tomato, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

7 flour tortillas (8-inch)

8 ounces Shredded Cheddar cheese (about 2 cups)

Directions

Mash the pinto beans in a medium bowl with a fork. Stir in 3/4 cup picante sauce and the garlic powder.

Stir the remaining picante sauce, cilantro, black beans and tomato in a medium bowl.

Place 1 tortilla onto a baking sheet. Spread 3/4 cup pinto bean mixture over the tortilla to with 1/2-inch of the edge. Top with 1/4 cheese. Top with 1 tortilla and 2/3 cup black bean mixture. Top with 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat the layers twice more. Top with the remaining tortilla and spread with the remainning pinto bean mixture. Cover with aluminum foil.

Bake at 400 degrees for 40 minutes or until the filling is hot. Uncover the pie. Top with the remaining cheese. Cut the pie into 6 wedges. Serve with additional picante sauce and spring with additional cilantro, if desired.

PARISIAN-STYLE SWEET CREPES

From the September 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “Cafés and brasseries in the French capital sell passersby sweet crêpes slathered in butter, jam, chestnut purée, and (VT favorite) Nutella. The experience is easy to re-create at home for breakfast, Sunday supper, or a snack.” Makes 8 crêpes

To view this online, click here.

Crêpes

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/3 cup sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 cup low-fat milk

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Fillings (optional)

Butter

Sugar

Nutella

Jam

Apple butter

Crème de marrons (chestnut purée)

Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in bowl. Whisk in egg; mixture will be shaggy. Whisk in milk 1/4 cup at a time. Whisk in vanilla. Cover, and chill 30 minutes, or overnight.

Whisk 1/4 to 1/2 cup water into batter to thin. Lightly grease 9-inch nonstick skillet with canola oil. Heat skillet over medium-high heat.

Pour 1/4 cup batter into hot skillet, tilting pan to swirl batter so it coats bottom of pan. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, or until edges begin to brown and center is dry. Flip; cook 30 seconds to 1 minute more.

Transfer crêpe to plate, and repeat with remaining batter. To serve crêpes: Reheat 1 minute in lightly greased skillet. Spread with desired fillings, fold into quarters, and serve.

LOW SUGAR VEGAN APPLE PIE ICE CREAM

This yummy recipe comes from Brenda Bennett, About.com's Sugar-Free Cooking expert. She writes, “This recipe today will blow your mind at not only how easy it is, but how much the family will love it once they try it! No sugar is added but because of the natural sugar in the apples, it will not be completely sugar free...

“Whether or not you're dairy free or vegan, this recipe can easily be adapted. Just use whatever milk you prefer. Although a lower fat content of any milk will not produce a thick and creamy ice cream. The creamy canned coconut milk is the best choice here.” She mentions that while she used Macintosh apples for this, any kind will work. Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Total Time: 5 minutes; Yield: 4

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 apples, peeled, cored or about 2 cups sliced

2 cans (15.5 ounce) coconut milk

1 tsp allspice

1 tsp ground cinnamon

pinch salt

1/2 tsp cinnamon liquid stevia or sweetener or choice that equals 1/2 cup sugar

Optional topping: Sugar Free Brown Sugar Substitute like Sukrin or use coconut sugar

Preparation

Blend ingredients in a high powered blender until smooth.

Taste and adjust sweetens to decide if you need to any.

Place mixture into an ice cream machine.

Follow manufacturers instructions. (mine was ready at 15 minutes).

Enjoy as soft serve ice cream or place in an airtight container and freeze for 2-3 hours to firm up.

CREAMY SLOW COOKER PUMPKIN SOUP

This comes from Linda Larsen, About.com's Busy Cooks expert. She writes, “I love this wonderful Creamy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup for its bright colors and intense flavors. Be sure that you mix the vegetable broth and pumpkin very well in the first step so the vegetable blends with the rest of the ingredients.” She originally gives you a choice of vegetable or chicken broth, but as a vegetarian, the vegetable broth is the logical choice. Also, you can use a soy- or other-based cream in place of the dairy heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 360 minutes (6 hours); Total Time: 375 minutes; Yield: 6-8 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 onion, chopped

1 (16-ounce) can solid pack pumpkin OR 1 (16-ounce) package frozen squash, drained and pureed

2 (16-ounce) boxes ready to serve vegetable broth

2 cups frozen corn

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

2 cups fresh cilantro

1/2 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup olive oil

1 cup heavy cream

Preparation

In 3 quart crockpot, combine onion, pumpkin, and 2 cups of chicken broth; mix until blended. Add remaining chicken broth, drained corn, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper and blend well. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours until hot and flavors are blended. If you have a new, hotter-cooking crockpot, check the soup after 5 hours and stir after 3 hours.

To make pesto, in food processor, combine cilantro, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and lemon juice.

Blend until chopped. Add olive oil and process until blended. Set pesto aside.

Add cream to soup, turn crockpot to HIGH, and cook for 10-15 minutes. Serve soup topped with the cilantro pesto.

SIMPLE VEGGIE SKEWERS

Yield: 12 appetizers

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/60.shtml

View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/779.shtml

Ingredients

1 medium-small zucchini squash

12 cubes (3/4-inches each) reduced-fat white cheddar, provolone, or Swiss cheese (about 3 ounces)

12 small whole fresh mushrooms

12 pitted jumbo black olives

12 cherry or grape tomatoes

12 wooden skewers (6-inches each)

1/2 cup light ranch salad dressing (optional)

Directions

Trim the ends off the zucchini, quarter it lengthwise, and cut into 3/4-inch pieces.

Thread 1 of the zucchini pieces, 1 cube of cheese, 1 mushroom, 1 olive, 1 tomato, and another zucchini piece onto each skewer.

Serve immediately (accompanied by the dressing if desired) or cover and chill for several hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 2.8 g; Sodium: 138 mg; Cholesterol: 7 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Medium-Fat Meat

PUMPKIN MUFFINS

This comes from G.E. Appliances. Yields 12 muffins.

Ingredients

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 egg, beaten

3/4 cup canned pumpkin

1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup milk

Preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Grease or spray a standard sized muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Cream butter and sugars with a mixer on medium speed until fluffy. Beat in egg. Add pumpkin and nuts.

Mix dry ingredients together well and add to pumpkin mixture in thirds, alternating with milk. Blend just enough to mix ingredients.

Spoon into prepared muffin pan and bake for 20 minutes.

Monday, October 12, 2015

Meatless Monday Recipes

We’ve survived another weekend, and, if you’re like many people, you’re giving Meatless Monday a try, for any number of reasons. I know I’ve mentioned this before, but as a vegetarian, I find it easier to fix meatless meals than those centered around meat. But whether you’re a meat-eater who’s simply trying one meatless day a week (hey, it’s a start!), a vegetarian, or a vegan (something I’m working towards), here are some recipes you’re sure to want to try. Enjoy!

MAPLE-GLAZED SWEET POTATOES

This comes from the November 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 60. It starts off, “As these sweet potatoes cook, a blend of maple syrup and apple cider vinegar thickens into a light glaze.” Serves 8.

To view this online, click here.

1 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 tsp. salt

2 cinnamon sticks

3 lb. sweet potatoes or garnet yams, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

2 Tbs. shelled roasted unsalted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds

Preheat oven to 425°F. Combine maple syrup, vinegar, 1/2 cup water, oil, salt, and cinnamon sticks in 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Add sweet potatoes, and stir to coat.

Cover dish tightly with foil, and bake 10 minutes. Uncover, and bake 30 to 35 minutes more, basting potatoes every 10 minutes with maple mixture, until maple mixture thickens and potatoes glisten and begin to brown. Remove from oven, season with salt and pepper (if desired), and stir in sunflower seeds.

nutritional information per 3/4-cup serving: Calories: 233; Protein: 2 g; Total Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 51 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 332 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 32 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

SPINACH, PEPPERS, AND CHERRY TOMATOES WITH PENNE RIGATE

This is from the November 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 28. It begins, "Fresh cherry tomatoes and spinach add bright color, flavor, and body to this Mediterranean-style dish." Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view online, click here.

2 1/2 cups penne rigate pasta (6 oz.)

1 Tbs. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

1 12-oz. jar roasted red peppers, rinsed, drained, patted dry, and sliced

10 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved (2 cups)

4 cups packed baby spinach leaves (8 oz.)

1/4 cup chopped pitted kalamata olives

1 Tbs. finely chopped fresh oregano

1 1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain, and reserve 1/2 cup pasta-cooking water.

Meanwhile, heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute, stirring frequently, or until lightly browned.

Increase heat to high. Add roasted peppers, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Add tomatoes, spinach, olives, oregano, lemon zest, and pepper. Cook 4 to 6 minutes, or until tomatoes soften and spinach wilts, stirring frequently. Add pasta and reserved pasta-cooking water; cover, and cook 3 minutes more, or until heated through.

nutritional information Per 1 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 266; Protein: 8 g; Total Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 46 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 340 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 4 g; Vegan

RIGATONI TORTE WITH RICOTTA AND FALL VEGETABLES

This comes from the November 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 55. It starts off, “Packed with autumn flavors, this impressive main dish is mac-and-cheese elevated to its highest form.” Serves 12.

To view this online, click here.

3 sprigs fresh sage plus 2 Tbs. chopped fresh sage, divided

12 oz. white or cremini mushrooms, quartered (6 cups)

3 small leeks, white and light green parts cut into 1/2-inch-thick rounds (3 cups)

12 oz. broccoli, cut into 1 1/2-inch florets (6 cups)

1 lb. uncooked rigatoni

4 Tbs. butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 32-oz. pkg. creamy butternut squash soup, such as Imagine Foods

2 cups grated Swiss or Gruyère cheese, divided

1 tsp. truffle oil, plus more for drizzling, optional

1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 10-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Bring large pot of salted water to a boil with fresh sage sprigs; use this boiling water to separately blanch mushrooms (3 minutes), then leeks (2 minutes), and then broccoli (1 minute). Immediately transfer each vegetable to colander with slotted spoon, rinse under cold water, drain well, and transfer to 1 large bowl.

Cook rigatoni in boiling water 3 minutes less than cooking time recommended on package, then drain, rinse under cold water, and transfer to separate large bowl.

Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour, and cook 3 to 5 minutes, or until beginning to turn light brown, stirring constantly. Add butternut squash soup, and cook 5 minutes, or until thickened, stirring constantly. Stir in 1 cup grated cheese, chopped sage, and 1 tsp. truffle oil (if using); season with salt and pepper, if desired. Stir soup mixture into pasta, add blanched vegetables, and stir to combine.

Spread one-third of pasta mixture in prepared springform pan; dot with 1/3 cup ricotta cheese. Repeat twice with remaining pasta mixture and ricotta, and then sprinkle with remaining 1 cup grated cheese. (If making ahead, cover springform pan tightly with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Uncover before baking.)

Place springform pan on large baking sheet, and bake 30 minutes, or until top is browned and cheese is melted. Let stand 5 minutes before unmolding and serving.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 334; Protein: 15 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 45 g; Cholesterol: 33 mg; Sodium: 296 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 8 g

SOFT APPLE GINGER SPICE COOKIES

This is from the September 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 65. The recipe starts off, “In addition to being some of the best spice cookies you’ll ever eat, these may also be the easiest since you don’t need an electric mixer to prepare the dough. You can also make them without diced apples, or substitute dried cranberries.” Makes 20 4-inch cookies.

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. ground ginger

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 cup canola oil

1/4 cup Rosy Applesauce (recipe follows) or unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup molasses

3/4 cup sugar, plus 1/2 cup for rolling cookies

1 large apple, peeled and finely diced (1 cup)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper, or coat with cooking spray.

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in large bowl.

Whisk together oil, applesauce, and molasses in separate large bowl. Whisk in 3/4 cup sugar. Stir in flour mixture with spatula. Fold in diced apple.

Place remaining 1/2 cup sugar in bowl. Roll 1/4 cup dough into ball, then roll ball in sugar. Repeat with remaining dough. Place balls on prepared baking sheets.

Put baking sheets in oven, and bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until tops of cookies are dry and bottoms are golden brown. Transfer to wire rack to cool.

Per cookie: 176 cal; 2 g protein; 6 g total fat (less than 1 g sat. fat); 30 g carb; 0 mg chol; 127 mg sodium; less than 1 g fiber; 16 g sugars

ROSY APPLESAUCE

From page 63 of the September 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times.

While this isn’t a cookie recipe, it figures into the Soft Apple Ginger Spice Cookies. It would also make a nice addition to almost any meal. The recipe starts off, “Use a variety of apples to give the applesauce a more complex flavor.” Makes 6 cups.

4 lb. apples, quartered with skins and cores

1 cup apple cider

Place apples and cider in large pot, and bring to a boil. Cover, and cook 1 hour, or until apples are mushy, stirring occasionally. Cool in pot. Pass apples through food mill or sieve. Discard solids. Store up to 1 week in fridge.

Per 1/2-cup serving: 72 cal; less than 1 g protein; less than 1 g fat (less than 1 g sat. fat); 19 g carb; 0 mg chol; 2 mg sodium; 2 g fiber; 15 g sugar

LOW-FAT VEGAN EGGPLANT LASAGNA

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, who wrote for The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "A wonderful vegetarian lasagna recipe full of healthy spinach and eggplant. This vegetarian and vegan lasagna recipe uses no cheese, making it both vegan and dairy-free, as well as much lower in fat than a traditional lasagna." Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 medium eggplant, diced

2 10 ounce packages frozen chopped spinach, defrosted

1 64 ounce jar pre-made tomato sauce

1 pound lasagna noodles

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Heat the olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Sautee the garlic for two minutes, then add the eggplant and stir. Cover the frying pan and cook until the eggplant is just tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Cover the bottom of a 9x12 inch baking pan with 2 cups of the tomato sauce, then cover the tomato sauce with 4 or 5 uncooked noodles. Cover this with a thin layer of sauce, then add the cooked eggplant and another thin layer of sauce. Add another layer of noodles followed by a thing layer of sauce, then the spinach and another thin layer of sauce. Add the remaining noodles and sauce.

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes. Noodles are cooked when they can be pierced with a fork.

Makes six servings of eggplant and spinach lasagna. Reprinted with permission from The Compassionate Cook Cookbook.

Nutritional information, per serving: Calories: 347, Calories from Fat: 41; % Daily Value: Total Fat: 4.6g, 7%, Total Carbohydrates: 65.8g, 22%, Dietary Fiber: 9.2g, 37%, Protein: 16.3g, Vitamin A 199%, Vitamin C 83%, Calcium 14%, Iron 32%

Friday, October 9, 2015

Weekend Recipes

Finally, Friday! Here's to the weekend, and six vegetarian recipes to help out. Enjoy!

CRANBERRY PIE

This recipe can be found in my e-cookbook Off the Wall Cooking, which is for sale on Amazon.com. (To buy a copy of it for your Kindle or tablet, click here.) My dad sent this recipe in a letter dated “18 No 79”. He wrote, “Here is a recipe for a pie. 1st the way it was in the paper and the way I made it.”

2 T cornstarch

1 C sugar

1/4 tsp. salt

1 1/4 C hot water

1 C raisins

1 T butter

2 C cranberries

Pie crust

Blend 1st four ingredients & cook in double boiler until thick. Add next 3 ingredients & cook 10 minutes. Put in pie shell & bake at 450 degrees for 20-30 minutes, covering pie with foil for the first 10-15 minutes. (Crust can be any kind you want, whether double crust or simply a bottom crust.)

VARIATION

2 Tbls cornstarch

3/4 C honey + 1/4 C molasses

1/4 tsp. salt

1 1/4 C hot water

1 C raisins

1 T margarine

1 1/2 C cranberries + 1 C canned cranberries (kind with berries in sauce)

Pie crust

Make as above.

ROASTED SQUASH AND APPLE CHOWDER WITH COLORFUL POTATOES

This is from the October 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 76. It starts off, “Puréed roasted butternut squash provides the creamy base for a hearty chowder. If making the chowder ahead, prepare the recipe through step 3, then assemble and reheat just before serving.” Serves 8.

2 lb. butternut squash, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks (6 cups), divided

3 medium apples, peeled and diced (3 cups), divided

2 large leeks, white parts cut into 1-inch chunks (1 cup), plus 1/2 cup thinly sliced leek greens, divided

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 Tbs. pure maple syrup

1 lb. multicolored potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks

1/2 cup apple juice

1 Tbs. apple cider vinegar

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray.

Combine 5 cups butternut squash chunks, 2 cups diced apple, leek whites, oil, and maple syrup in large bowl, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Spread squash mixture in single layer on prepared baking sheet, and roast 30 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.

Cook potato chunks and remaining 1 cup butternut squash in boiling, salted water 5 to 7 minutes, or until just tender. Drain, and set aside.

Purée roasted vegetables in blender until smooth. Add purée and apple juice to large soup pot with 4 cups water. Whisk in vinegar, and heat over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Add boiled potatoes and squash, remaining 1 cup diced apple, and leek greens, and simmer 5 minutes, or until hot.

nutritional information Per 1 1/4-cup serving: Calories: 162; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 36 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 12 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 12 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

CREAMY SPINACH SOUP WITH PANEER CROUTONS

This is from the October 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 32. It starts out, “Paneer, a mild Indian cheese, tops this tasty soup. If you can’t find paneer, substitute cubed fresh mozzarella or tofu.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

2 Tbs. butter, divided

1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)

1 Tbs. thinly sliced fresh ginger

2 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced

2 tsp. curry powder

1/2 tsp. black mustard seeds

1/2 tsp. ground turmeric

1 cup frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

3 2/3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 1-lb. pkg. frozen spinach

4 oz. paneer cheese, cubed (1 cup)

Heat 1 Tbs. butter in pot over medium heat. Add onion, and cook 3 minutes. Stir in ginger, garlic, curry powder, mustard seeds, and turmeric. Cook 1 minute. Add hash browns and broth, and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 7 minutes. Stir in spinach, and cook 2 minutes more, or until wilted. Purée with immersion blender until smooth.

Heat remaining 1 Tbs. butter in nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add paneer cubes, and cook 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown, turning occasionally. Spoon paneer over soup, and serve hot.

nutritional information Per 1 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 264; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 9 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Cholesterol: 44 mg; Sodium: 453 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 6 g; Gluten-Free

LOW FAT BROCCOLI SOUP

Ingredients

2 cups chopped fresh or frozen broccoli

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 (14.5 oz.) can reduced-sodium chicken broth

2 tbsp. cornstarch

1 (12 fluid oz.) can fat-free evaporated milk

 Methods

In a saucepan, combine broccoli, onion and broth; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Puree half of the mixture in a blender; return to the saucepan.

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and 3 tbsp. of milk until smooth. Gradually add remaining milk. Stir into the broccoli mixture. Bring to a boil; boil and stir for 2 minutes.

Additional Tips prep time 30 Min; ready in30 Min; Makes 4 servings. from mydailymoment.com

STOVETOP VEGETARIAN ORZO AND SPINACH SKILLET DINNER

By Jolinda Hackett, at about.com

Jolinda writes, "This is a super easy one-pot complete vegetarian meal using pre-cooked orzo, canned chickpeas, fresh or frozen spinach and topped off with optional crumbled feta cheese, if you're not eating vegan. If you need a quick meal but don't have orzo on hand, you could try using this recipe with instant rice or even another whole grain that you have handy. Couscous would also be super quick, but orzo would be better. This recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, and, if you omit the feta cheese, it's vegan as well."

Recipe courtesy of Bush's® Beans.

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 5 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small red onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1 (16 ounce) can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained

1/2 cup cooked orzo

1 lemon, juiced

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped or 12 ounces frozen, thawed and squeezed to drain

salt and pepper

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Preparation:

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until almost clear, about 5-6 minutes. Add the beans, cooked orzo, lemon juice and spinach, stirring to combine well.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to heat for 4-5 minutes until spinach has cooked through and everything is heated and well combined.

Serve topped with feta cheese.

Makes four servings.

PINEAPPLE COBBLER

From Vegetarian Times, January/February 2012 issue, p. 65

Serves 9

"Pineapples and dates create a luscious filling for this dessert. Experiment with different fruit juices and with dried fruits other than dates."

Filling

5 cups fresh pineapple cubes

1 cup coconut-pineapple juice or unsweetened pineapple juice

1 cup chopped dates

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp. ground cardamom or allspice

Topping

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

1/2cup all-purpose or whole-wheat pastry flour

1/2 cup coconut-pineapple juice or unsweetened pineapple juice

1/4 cup brown sugar, optional

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. ground cardamom or nutmeg

1/4 cup vegan margarine

3 Tbs. coconut or safflower oil

Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.

To make Filling: Stir together pineapple cubes, juice, dates, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom in medium saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook 10 minutes, or until dates begin to break apart, stirring frequently.

To make Topping: Combine oats, flour, juice, brown sugar (if using), cinnamon, and cardamom in large bowl. Melt margarine and oil in small saucepan. Stir margarine mixture into oats mixture.

Spoon Filling into prepared baking dish. Spread Topping over Filling, and bake 35 to 40 minutes, or until Topping is golden brown.

nutritional information Per 2/3-cup serving: Calories: 264; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 46 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 37 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 26 g

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Thursday Recipes

Here are today's six yummy vegetarian recipes to try. Enjoy!

CHAI RICE PUDDING

This comes from the February 2006 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 86. It starts off, “If you like chai tea, you'll love this creamy, comforting dessert studded with apples and raisins. For the best flavor, choose a strong, spicy chai tea; we used, Tazo's chai tea bags.”

3 1/2 cups unsweetened soymilk or low-fat milk

4 black chai tea bags

1 cup short- or medium-grain white rice

1/2 cup light brown sugar

1/8 tsp salt

1 medium-sized apple, peeled, cored and diced

1/4 cup dark raisins

whipped cream for garnish, optional

cinnamon for garnish, optional

Bring 2 cups water and 1 cup soymilk to a boil in large saucepan. Remove from heat, and add teabags. Cover, and steep 5 minutes. Remove tea bags, squeezing out any liquid.

Stir rice, sugar and salt into tea mixture. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 10 minutes. Add remaining 2 ½ cups soymilk, and simmer, uncovered, 20 minutes, or until rice is soft. Stir in apple and raisins; remove from heat. Cover pot, and let sit 10 minutes.

Spoon pudding into 2-quart heatproof dish. Serve warm or cold, with whipped cream and cinnamon, if desired.

Per serving: 208 cal; 5 g prot; 2 g total fat (0 g sat. fat); 43 g carb; o mg chol; 75 mg sod; 1 g fiber; 20 g sugars

CREAMY RICE PUDDING

Maybe ten years ago, this recipe was in several issues of Vegetarian Times in ads for Mahatma Rice. I'd lost track of the recipe, which I'd made several times for a certain someone who loved homemade rice pudding. I had to admit, it was definitely worth the time it took to fix it.

1 1/2 quarts 2% milk

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup Mahatma rice (see note)

1/2 cup raisins

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Note: The recipe called for Mahatma, Water Maid, Carolina, or River rice.

Combine milk, sugar and rice in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to simmer and cook uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. (The milk should just barely simmer, with bubble breaking only at the outside edge of the surface. After an hour, the rice should be soft.)

Add raisins, increase heat to medium heat, and cook, stirring frequently, until rice has absorbed most of the rest of the milkl, but not all, and the pudding is creamy (about 30 minutes longer).

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. When cool, pudding will thicken, but will still be very creamy. Serve warm or well chilled. Serves 8.

ROASTED SQUASH AND APPLE CHOWDER WITH COLORFUL POTATOES

From the October 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 76. The recipe starts off, "Puréed roasted butternut squash provides the creamy base for a hearty chowder. If making the chowder ahead, prepare the recipe through step 3, then assemble and reheat just before serving." Serves 8.

2 lb. butternut squash, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks (6 cups), divided

3 medium apples, peeled and diced (3 cups), divided

2 large leeks, white parts cut into 1-inch chunks (1 cup), plus 1/2 cup thinly sliced leek greens, divided

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 Tbs. pure maple syrup

1 lb. multicolored potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks

1/2 cup apple juice

1 Tbs. apple cider vinegar

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray.

Combine 5 cups butternut squash chunks, 2 cups diced apple, leek whites, oil, and maple syrup in large bowl, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Spread squash mixture in single layer on prepared baking sheet, and roast 30 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.

Cook potato chunks and remaining 1 cup butternut squash in boiling, salted water 5 to 7 minutes, or until just tender. Drain, and set aside.

Purée roasted vegetables in blender until smooth. Add purée and apple juice to large soup pot with 4 cups water. Whisk in vinegar, and heat over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Add boiled potatoes and squash, remaining 1 cup diced apple, and leek greens, and simmer 5 minutes, or until hot.

nutritional information Per 1 1/4-cup serving: Calories: 162; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 36 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 12 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 12 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

VEGETABLE SHEPHERD'S PIE

This came from the Food Network's Magazine several years ago.

Prep Time: 25 min; Cook Time: 41 min; Level: Easy; Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

6 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced

Kosher salt

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch chunks

2 stalks celery, cut into 1/2-inch chunks

1 bunch baby turnips, halved or quartered if large

6 cloves garlic, minced

Freshly ground pepper

1/2 bunch fresh parsley, leaves chopped (stems reserved)

1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

5 tablespoons unsalted butter

3/4 cup chopped veggie burgers or vegetarian protein crumbles

2/3 cup milk or half-and-half

Grated parmesan cheese, for sprinkling (optional)

Directions

Preheat the broiler. Cover the potatoes with water in a pot; season with salt, cover and boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a stovetop casserole dish or shallow enamel pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, turnips and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the vegetables brown, 8 minutes. Add 1 1/2 cups cooking liquid from the potatoes to the casserole dish. Lower the heat and scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Tie the parsley stems with twine and add to the casserole. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, 8 minutes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons butter and the chopped veggie burgers and warm through, 5 minutes. Remove the parsley stems and stir in the chopped parsley. Keep warm.

Drain the potatoes and mash with the remaining 3 tablespoons butter and the milk; season with salt and pepper and spoon over the casserole. Sprinkle with parmesan, if desired. Broil until golden brown, 5 minutes.

WILD RICE-STUFFED PUMPKIN

From page 71 of the October 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times. The recipe begins, "The stuffing for this entrée can be made two days ahead." Serves 12.

1 lb. wild rice blend

2 lb. fresh spinach, stemmed

1/4 cup plus 2 Tbs. olive oil, divided

6 cups sliced button mushrooms (1 1/2 lb.)

1 large onion, chopped (2 cups)

1 cup diced celery

9 cloves garlic, minced, divided (3 Tbs.)

3 Tbs. chopped fresh sage, divided

4 tsp. chopped fresh thyme, divided

2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels

1 1/2 cups cooked kidney beans, or 1 15-oz. can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup chopped toasted pecans

1 6- to 8-lb. cooking pumpkin

Prepare wild rice blend according to package directions. Transfer to bowl.

Bring 1/2 cup water to a boil in bottom of skillet. Add spinach, and cook 4 minutes, or until wilted. Drain, and cool, then squeeze dry, chop, and add to rice in bowl.

Heat 2 Tbs. oil in skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, celery, 4 tsp. garlic, 1 Tbs. sage, and 2 tsp. thyme; sauté 10 minutes, or until all liquid has evaporated. Stir in corn and kidney beans, and sauté 3 minutes. Stir mushroom mixture into rice mixture. Fold in pecans, and season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line rimmed baking sheet with foil. Cut top from pumpkin, and scoop out seeds and pulp.

Combine remaining 1/4 cup oil, remaining 5 tsp. garlic, 2 Tbs. sage, and 2 tsp. thyme in bowl. Brush oil mixture over inside of pumpkin. Fill pumpkin with rice mixture, cover with top, and bake 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until pumpkin is tender when side is pierced with knife tip. Uncover, and bake 10 to 20 minutes more.

nutritional information Per Serving: Calories: 272; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 43 g; Cholesterol: 16 mg; Sodium: 227 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 25 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

LOW-CALORIE, ALMOST FAT-FREE VEGETABLE CHILI

Jolinda Hackett, About.com's vegetarian blog's guide, wrote, "Using extra vegetables, tomato juice and tomatoes with fewer beans keeps this vegetarian chili lower in calories. Though meatless chili is already a healthy and low-fat choice, this version is extra low-cal. It's really more like a chili-spiced tomato soup than a hearty chili. This was one of those recipes that came about purely because of what I had on hand in my kitchen, which happened to be lots of veggies, and not so many beans. But I really wanted chili."

Ingredients:

1/2 medium onion, chopped

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp water

1 large carrot, sliced thin

1 green bell pepper, chopped small

1 red bell pepper, chopped small

2 tbsp soy sauce

1/2 cup corn kernels

1 15-ounce can kidney beans

1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes (do not drain)

1 12-ounce can tomato juice or V8

water

1 jalapeno or other small spicy pepper, minced

1 tbsp chili powder

1/2 tsp oregano

1/2 tsp seasoned salt

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

green onions for garnish, optional

Preparation:

In a large non-stick pot, heat the garlic and onions for 3-4 minutes. Add the water and carrots and heat, stirring, for another 3-4 minutes. Add green bell pepper, red bell pepper and soy sauce, stirring to combine well. Heat for just another minute or two. Reduce heat to medium low and add all the remaining ingredients, except for the green onions. Cover and allow to slowly simmer for at least 25 minutes and up to 40 minutes.

Adjust the seasonings to taste, garnish with some green onions or even a bit of cheese or sour cream if you're not eating vegan.

Nutritional information, via CalorieCount: Calories: 195; Calories from Fat: 10; Total Fat: 1.1g, 2% daily value; Trans Fat: 0.0g; Cholesterol: 0mg, 0%; Sodium: 614mg, 26%; Total Carbohydrates: 38.0g, 13%; Dietary Fiber: 9.6g, 38%; Sugars: 9.5g; Protein: 11.2g; Vitamin A 80%, Vitamin C 159% Calcium 5%, Iron 32

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Wednesday Recipes

Here are today's six yummy recipes. Enjoy!

FENNEL AND ROMAIN SALAD WITH CRACKED PEPPER VINAIGRETTE

This comes from the September 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 46. It starts off, “The one-to-three ratio of this orange juice–based vinaigrette can be slightly altered by adding 1/2 teaspoon vinegar to give it more tang. Black pepper has similar emulsifying properties to mustard seeds and keeps this dressing emulsified longer than a simple oil-and-juice combination.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

Cracked Pepper Vinaigrette

3 oranges

1/2 tsp. red or white wine vinegar, optional

1/4 tsp. cracked black pepper

1/2 clove garlic, minced (1/2 tsp.)

1 1/2 Tbs. grapeseed or canola oil

1 1/2 Tbs. olive oil

1/4 tsp. salt, optional

Salad

1 large fennel bulb, halved and thinly sliced or shaved on mandoline

3 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (1/2 cup)

1 oz. Parmesan cheese, shaved

To make Cracked Pepper Vinaigrette: Supreme oranges by trimming ends, then standing fruit upright. Remove peel and pith with knife, following curve of fruit from top to bottom. Hold fruit over bowl, and cut sections along membranes as if you were slicing out wedges. Set orange supremes aside, and squeeze membrane “skeleton” over bowl to release remaining juice. Reserve 1 Tbs. juice for vinaigrette.

Whisk together 1 Tbs. orange juice, vinegar (if using), cracked pepper, and garlic in bowl. Whisk in grapeseed and olive oils until emulsified. Stir in salt (if using). Let stand 20 minutes.

To make Salad: Toss together fennel, romaine, red onion, and orange segments in large bowl. Toss with Cracked Pepper Vinaigrette, and garnish with Parmesan.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 137; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Cholesterol: 4 mg; Sodium: 100 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 7 g; Gluten-Free

CURRIED CARROT SOUP WITH ROASTED PISTACHIOS

From the October 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 30. The recipe starts off, “Vadouvan spice, a French-style curry blend, lends a subtle heat to this soup.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

2 Tbs. olive oil

1 20-oz. pkg. grated carrots (8 cups)

2 large leeks, light green and white parts thinly sliced (2 cups)

1/4 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. vadouvan spice or curry powder

1/4 cup roasted shelled pistachios, chopped

Heat oil in large pot over medium-high heat. Add carrots, leeks, and baking soda. Cover, and cook 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until vegetables are tender and browned in spots. Stir in vadouvan spice, and cook 30 seconds. Add 4 cups water, and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat, purée with immersion blender, and season with salt, if desired. Serve sprinkled with pistachios.

nutritional information Per 1 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 189; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 225 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 9 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE

From the Food Network Kitchen. The recipe starts off, “Savor the warm spices of this seasonal coffee shop favorite in your very own kitchen (any time of year) and save a few bucks! A little pumpkin puree added to the warm milk gives the latte extra body.” Total Time: 10 min; Prep: 5 min; Cook: 5 min; Yield: 1 drink; Level: Easy

Can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 cup milk

2 tablespoons pure pumpkin puree

1 tablespoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus more for sprinkling

1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 cup hot espresso or strong brewed coffee

Sweetened whipped cream, for serving

Directions

Combine the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice and vanilla in a medium microwave safe bowl, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and vent with a small hole. Microwave until the milk is hot, 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk vigorously until the milk mixture is foamy, about 30 seconds.

Pour the espresso or coffee into a large mug and add the foamed milk. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

CHACHOUKA CHOW CHOW

(SPICY, HEARTY NORTH AFRICAN TOMATO AND PEPPER STEW)

This comes from One Green Planet. (Hint: They have a cool email; I recommend it, if you're not already on their emailing list.) The recipe starts out, “The Chachouka Chow Chow drew my attention, not least because I couldn't figure out how to spell it (but the name sure is funny). Warming spices, tender, juicy peppers, the colours of Africa on your plate. Your house will smell of cumin for hours after you've had the last bite of your chachouka.” The recipe, which is dairy free and vegan, serves 3, while the cooking time is 30 minutes.

To view this online, click here.

Note: In the ingredients list, the email list lists “2 medium sized tomatoes (NOT beef).” I'm not sure if the writer meant “not beefsteak tomatoes,” use tomatoes rather than beef, or what, exactly. I'm going to fathom a guess and figure maybe not beefsteak tomatoes, but I could be wrong. I'm also not sure about “tinned tomatoes.” Just figure on using maybe 3 or 4 14 ounce cans of tomatoes.

Ingredients

2 tbsp coconut oil

1/2onion, minced

1 green chilli, deseeded and finely sliced

1/2 tsp cumin seeds

1 clove of garlic, finely minced

2 medium sized tomatoes (NOT beef – see note, above)

7 – 8.75 ounces tempeh, sliced into strips

3 large peppers, deseeded and sliced into strips

49 ounces can tinned tomatoes (see note, above)

1 tsp tumeric

1/2tsp cayenne (or paprika) powder

1 Tbsp nutritional yeast

1 small loaf bread, possibly peach and raisin

Preparation

Heat the coconut oil in a large, deep pan. Fry cumin seeds for a minute before adding the onion, garlic and chilli. Fry for about five minutes, until the onion is translucent, before adding the peppers, tomatoes and the rest of the spices.

Let it all bubble for about 20 minutes on low to medium heat.

Serve with a few slices of crusty, rustic bread.

Notes: If you don't like tempeh, you could try replacing it with fried tofu. If you want to make the dish even more wholesome, red kidney beans would be lovely, too, as they go so well with tomatoes and spices.

VEGAN BLACK BEAN BURGERS

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food guide. She wrote, “I love this recipe for black bean patties because its easy to make as well as tasty, two of my favorite qualities in a recipe! They aren't quite firm enough to toss on the backyard grill, but are good for an everyday meal. This veggie burger recipe is both vegetarian and vegan.” Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes

This can be viewed online here.

1/2 onion, diced

1 can black beans, well drained

1/2 cup flour

2 slices bread, crumbled

1 tsp garlic powder1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp seasoned salt

salt and pepper to taste

oil for frying

Preparation

Sautee the onions till soft, about 3-5 minutes.

In a large bowl, mash the beans until almost smooth. Add sauteed onions and the rest of the ingredients, except the oil, adding the flour a few tablespoons at a time to combine well. Mixture will be thick.

Form bean mixture into patties, approximately ½ inch thick and fry patties in a small amount of oil until slightly firm. Make veggie burgers and enjoy!

Nutrition Information: 
Servings: 6; 
Calories per serving: 294; Calories from Fat: 11; Total Fat: 1.2g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 25mg; Total Carbohydrates: 55.3g
Dietary Fiber: 11.3g, 45% RDA; Protein: 16.8g; Vitamin A 0%, Vitamin C 1%, Calcium 10%, Iron 23%, based on a 2000 calorie diet

TUSCAN KALE AND CARROT SOUP

This was in the October 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 74. It starts off, “This recipe calls for steaming the kale in a steamer insert placed over the soup's brothy base to keep the greens brightly colored and crisp-tender.” Serves 8 in 30 minutes or less.

The recipe can be viewed online here.

This recipe calls for steaming the kale in a steamer insert placed over the soup’s brothy base to keep the greens brightly colored and crisp-tender.

2 bunches multicolored carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks (4 cups)

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes in juice

2 12-oz. bunches Tuscan kale, thinly sliced

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus 6 whole leaves, divided

2 Tbs. chopped chives, plus handful whole chives, divided

1 15-oz. can white beans, rinsed and drained

1 Tbs. balsamic vinegar

Bring carrots, broth, tomatoes with juice, and 2 cups water to a simmer in large stockpot with steamer insert over medium heat.

Place kale, whole basil leaves, and whole chives in steamer insert. Set steamer inside stockpot, cover, and steam 5 to 7 minutes, using tongs to stir halfway through. Remove and discard basil and chives. Add kale, beans, and vinegar to soup, and return to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Stir in chopped basil and chives just before serving.

nutritional information Per 1 1/4-cup serving: Calories: 128; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 25 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 358 mg; Fiber: 8 g; Sugar: 6 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free