Most Americans grew up eating eggs once in a while. Heck, many of us grew up thinking that breakfast wasn't breakfast if it didn't include eggs, cereal, toast, coffee, and juice, or any combination of the above. Pancakes and French toast were frequently relegated to weekends, but they usually involved eggs.
While there are probably hundreds, if not thousands of ways to fix eggs, there are some that have become favorites around my house, including (are you ready?) three ways to dress up scrambled eggs, that staple of so many breakfast tables, as well as Pirate Eggs and Spinach Frittata. Enjoy!
GRANDPA SHWEDO'S SCRAMBLED EGGS
My dad and his dad both loved to cook. Whenever Dad's parents would spend the weekend, Mom knew better than to attempt to fix every meal; there were entire weekends when the only time Mom could make an appearance in the kitchen was when it was time to clean up. Siiigh... This was one of Grandpa's Sunday morning specials. While the sour cream might not seem like anything special, it definitely perks up the taste of scrambled eggs very nicely.
I've written the instructions for two servings. You can adjust the amount accordingly.
4-6 large eggs
3-4 Tablespoons sour cream (you can use low-fat, if you'd like)
salt and pepper to taste
margarine for the pan
Crack eggs into a medium-sized bowl (or any bowl that won't have you spilling eggs on the counter). Add sour cream and stir well. Add margarine to pan and melt on medium heat. Add eggs and stir frequently, cooking on low- to medium-heat. Add salt and pepper to taste just before the eggs are finished cooking. Enjoy!
VEGGIE SCRAMBLED EGGS
This is how I sometimes fix scrambled eggs. You can start off with plain scrambled eggs, which is what I'm doing for this recipe, or start off with Grandpa's version. Whatever works for you! Again, this is for two people.
4-6 large eggs
2-4 Tablespoons milk
1 onion, chopped
1 pepper, diced (see note)
1 potato, peeled and diced small
margarine for pan
salt and pepper to taste
Melt margarine in pan over medium heat. Add the diced veggies and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently so they don't burn. Crack eggs into bowl, add milk, and stir. Pour over the veggies, then stir frequently in the pan. Add salt and pepper just before the eggs are done. Enjoy!
Note: Whenever I run out of peppers, I usually buy a bunch of them in a variety of colors, usually green, red, orange and yellow, trying to get an equal number of each. Then I chop them all up, removing the seeds and stems, and put them into a freezer-safe container with lid. Then, whenever I need peppers, I've got a colorful mix to add to whatever I'm fixing. Usually I guess-timate the amount, approximately 1-2 peppers-worth. But if this doesn't sound like something you're into, no problem. Simply dice up any color pepper you want and add to the mix.
PIRATE EGGS
When my sister and I were kids, my mother used to fix this for us on a regular basis, except that she called them Gypsy Eggs. Once my brother came along, though, they became Pirate Eggs. The name stuck. Most people from the Northeastern U.S. tend to call them Eggs-in-a-Hole or some variation of that. But whatever you call them, they're good.
The instructions are for one person. Adjust for the number of people you're feeding.
1-2 eggs
1-2 pieces of bread
margarine for the pan
Melt the margarine in the pan over medium heat. Take the bread and cut a round hole in the middle. Place bread in pan, then crack the egg and dump onto the bread so that the yolk is in the hold. If you prefer non-runny yolks (my preference), crack the yolk with the corner of a spatula. Cook on the first side for several minutes, then flip over and cook the other side. You can flip it several times until the egg looks cooked. Enjoy!
SPANISH OMELET
POINTS® value | 5
Servings | 1
Preparation Time | 8 min
Cooking Time | 10 min
Ingredients
2 1/2 cup spinach, coarsely chopped (do not dry)
2 large egg(s)
2 tsp grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp olive oil
Directions
In a medium saucepan, cook spinach with just the water that clings to it until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Drain well, squeezing out all liquid. Cool, then chop finely.
In a medium bowl, combine eggs, cheese, salt, pepper and 1 tablespoon water.
In a small nonstick skillet, heat oil. Pour egg mixture into pan; reduce heat and cook until base is set and top is still a little creamy, about 2 minutes.
Sprinkle spinach over one half of eggs; fold omelet in half and cook until eggs are completely set, about 1 minute longer. Serve at once.
SPINACH FRITTATA
I fixed this one evening when I wanted something quick, easy and filling. You can use any veggies and cheese you like, but I'm adding the ones I like. This is enough for two people.
4 eggs
2-4 Tablespoons milk
1 onion, chopped
1 pepper, chopped
1 potato, peeled and diced
1/2 bag of spinach (10-16 ounce bag), rinced
1/2 cup shredded swiss cheese
margarine for pan
salt and pepper to taste
Melt margarine in an oven-proof pan over medium heat on the stove. Add veggies, cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently. Crack eggs in bowl, add milk, and beat. Pour eggs over veggies. Do NOT stir all the way through like you would with scrambled eggs, but do occasionally stir the top layer of liquid-y eggs, letting the bottom layer set. Add the shredded cheese and salt and pepper, then place a lid to help the eggs cook more evenly, lifting the lid only to stir the top layer so that it cooks evenly. When the eggs are almost completely done cooking, turn the oven's broiler on and place the pan--WITHOUT THE LID!--under the broiler, and broil for 1-2 minutes. Take out of oven, using care, as the handle will be very hot. Cut the frittata in half, place on plates, and enjoy!
CHICKPEA AND CHERRY FRITTATA
This is from the February 2014 issue of Runner’s World. It begins, “All runners (not just diabetics) benefit from the abundant carbs, protein, and antioxidants in this tasty dish. ‘It's big and bold-flavored,’ says (Sam) Talbot,” a runner, surfer, and type 1 diabetic who “makes this dish for a hearty pick-me-up breakfast after a morning workout.” Serves 4 to 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
8 eggs, lightly whisked
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup chopped fresh cherries or 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries
4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup loosely packed, torn fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix the eggs, chickpeas, cherries, goat cheese, almond milk, thyme, agave nectar, and cream of tartar. In a medium ovenproof skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes without stirring. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake till the eggs are puffed and set in the middle, about 20 minutes. Let the frittata cool for 5 to 10 minutes. With a rubber spatula, gently work the frittata out of the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Cut the frittata into wedges and serve garnished with the mint. Serves four to six.
Nutrition Information: Calories Per Serving: 395; Carbs: 25 g; Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 22 g; Fat: 22 g
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Today's offerings include Ultimate Veggie Burgers and Fresh Mango Chutney. Enjoy!
COCONUT RICE
This is from Tejal Rao in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Coconut milk lends rice both fat and sweetness, making it a richer, more mellow side than plain rice. To make it, simply replace half of the cooking water with coconut milk. It becomes a meal if you serve it with a fried egg, finely sliced pickled chiles with a little of their pickling liquid and some crushed peanuts. And if you wanted to turn it into dessert, serving it with ripe fruit like cut mango on top, you could stick to the recipe below, but bump the sugar up to 2 tablespoons.”
Yield: 3 to 4 servings; Time: 35 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
LEARN: How to Make Rice
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice, such as jasmine
3/4 cup coconut milk
1 scant tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3/4 cup water
Preparation
Rinse the rice a few times, until the water that drains away runs almost completely clear.
Put in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with coconut milk, water, sugar and salt. When the liquid comes up to a boil, give it a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and turn the heat down to low.
Cook for 15 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. Mix gently with a flexible rubber spatula. Taste, season with salt and serve.
BAKED ARANCINI WITH PEPPERY TOMATO SAUCE
This is from Michelle Stark of the Tampa Bay Times. Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
For the sauce:
1 red bell pepper
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
2 garlic cloves
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Handful of fresh basil, chopped
For the arancini:
1 to 2 cups panko bread crumbs
Salt, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
2 to 3 cups cooked and chilled risotto
1 egg
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Make the sauce: Cut the top off the red bell pepper, then halve it lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and ribs and cut into quarters. Place on a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with olive oil, making sure the pepper pieces are coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place in oven on the top rack and broil until pepper is very brown and charred. Keep an eye on it. When pepper pieces are mostly charred, remove from oven. Carefully remove any very charred skin and chop the rest of the pepper very finely. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add garlic and a swirl of olive oil. Cook for 5 minutes until garlic is lightly browned, then add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper and stir. Lower to a simmer and add red pepper flakes and basil. Taste it and adjust seasonings if desired. Simmer for 15 minutes while you prepare arancini.
Make the arancini: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread bread crumbs out on the parchment paper, spray with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt and garlic powder. Cook for 5 minutes, until crumbs are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, place cooked risotto in a large bowl, then add egg, yogurt, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Start adding flour 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing in between each addition. About 4 tablespoons in, try to form a ball about the size of a golf ball with the risotto. If mixture is too sticky or not holding together, add the rest of the flour. If ball holds together, you’re good to go.
Prepare another baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and coating with cooking spray. Gently roll risotto mixture into balls; you’ll likely get between 20 to 25. Place on balls on prepared baking sheet.
Carefully roll balls, one at a time, in bread crumbs on other baking sheet until each ball is coated entirely with crumbs.
Place arancini back on risotto baking sheet and spray generously with cooking spray. Season with salt and pepper and bake for about 25 minutes until brown. If you want them even browner, broil for about 5 minutes, watching them to make sure they don’t burn.
Serve hot with sauce on the side and more Parmesan cheese and parsley to garnish.
YUKON GOLD AND BABY SPINACH MARSALA
This is from the April 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Why Yukon gold potatoes? Because their creamy but firm texture make them a perfect fit for stews, plus the tender skin doesn't need to be peeled. Serve with steamed rice, and a sweet-and-sour chutney, such as Fresh Mango Chutney on vegetariantimes.com.” (Note: The recipe for Fresh Mango Chutney follows.) Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
2 Tbs. canola oil
1 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (4 cups)
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced (1 1/2 cups)
3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)
2 Tbs. minced fresh ginger
1 jalapeño chile,finely chopped (1 Tbs.)
1 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. turmeric
1 13.5-oz. can light coconut milk
1 6-oz. bag baby spinach
1 1/2 tsp. Garam Masala (recipe follows)
1 Tbs. lime juice
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Steam potatoes in steamer basket set over simmering water 10 minutes, or until just tender.
Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 8 minutes, or until soft and golden. Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeño, and sauté 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Add steamed potatoes, and sauté 1 to 2 minutes, to coat with spices. Add coconut milk and 1/4 cup water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 5 minutes, or until sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in spinach, garam masala, and 1/4 cup water, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until spinach is wilted. Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 347; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 16 g; Saturated Fat: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 45 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 382 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 3 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
GARAM MASALA
This comes from the September 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 70. It begins, “Once you’ve gotten the hang of roasting whole spices, it’s a snap to make your own version of this beloved Indian blend.” Makes 1/4 cup.
To view this online, click here.
1/4 cup whole cumin seeds
1 1/2-inch piece cinnamon stick
2 Tbs. whole coriander seeds
1 Tbs. green cardamom pods
1/2 tsp. black peppercorns
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp. whole cloves
Heat skillet over medium-low heat. Add all ingredients, and cook 12 minutes, or until light brown, shaking pan frequently. Cool.
Crush cardamom pods to release seeds inside. Discard pods, and grind cardamom seeds and cooled, roasted spices to fine powder with mortar and pestle or in spice grinder.
nutritional information Per 1/2 tsp.: Calories: 7; Protein: less than 1 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 1 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 2 mg; Fiber: less than 1 g; Sugar: less than 1 g; Vegan
FRESH MANGO CHUTNEY
This is from the May 2001 issue of Vegetarian Times. Makes 2 cups in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
1⁄4 cup raisins or currants
1⁄2 cup pine nuts
1 medium ripe mango
1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
2 Tbs. chopped cilantro
2 Tbs. chopped fresh mint
1 Tbs. fresh lime juice
1 Tbs. fresh orange juice
1 Tbs. pure maple syrup
1 tsp. minced fresh ginger
1/8 tsp. cayenne
In small bowl, soak raisins or currants in enough warm water to cover, until soft, about 10 minutes. Drain.
In small skillet over medium-high heat, toast pine nuts, shaking pan often until lightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes.
Peel mango and cut small slice off one end. Place mango, cut side down, on cutting board and work around pit, cutting each side of mango into large slices. Use paring knife to cut flesh away from pit. Roughly chop fruit into small pieces.
In medium bowl, combine mango with pine nuts, remaining ingredients and salt to taste; mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chutney will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
nutritional information Per 2-tablespoon serving: Calories: 24; Protein: 0 g; Total Fat: 1 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 0 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Vegan
THE ULTIMATE VEGGIE BURGER
This comes from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “You make a veggie burger because you want the hamburger experience without the meat. This one delivers. It’s got a firm, beefy texture that takes on the char and smoke of the grill, but is adaptable enough to cook inside on your stove. The enemy of a veggie burger is mushiness, which stems from a high moisture content. To combat that, the very watery ingredients – mushrooms, tofu, beans and beets – are roasted to both dehydrate them somewhat and intensify their flavors. Yes, the ingredient list here is long; you need a diverse lot to make a good veggie burger. And each one adds something in terms of flavor and/or texture. Garnish this any way you like, and don’t forget to toast the buns.” Yield: 6 burger.
This was featured in “The Ultimate Veggie Burger”, and can be found online here.
Also, there are two guides that went with this recipe that you might want to check out. The first is “How to Cook Beans”, and the second is “How to Grill”. Enjoy!
Ingredients
4 ounces extra-firm tofu, drained
Olive oil
1/2 pound cremini mushrooms, trimmed and sliced
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more as needed
Black pepper, as needed
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 medium beet, peeled and coarsely grated (3/4 cup)
3/4 cup tamari almonds or cashews
1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
2 ounces Cotija cheese or queso blanco, crumbled or grated (about 1/2 cup)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 scallions, sliced
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3/4 teaspoon dulce pimentón or sweet smoked paprika
4 ounces tempeh, crumbled
1/2 cup cooked brown rice
Preparation
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Slice tofu into 1/4-inch-thick slabs and pat dry with paper towel. Arrange tofu on one half of a rimmed baking sheet; brush both sides with oil. Spread mushrooms on the other half of the baking sheet; toss with 2 tablespoons oil and salt and pepper.
On a second rimmed baking sheet, toss beans and grated beet with 1 tablespoon oil and salt and pepper, then spread the mixture into one layer.
Transfer both baking sheets to the oven. Roast bean-beet mixture, tossing occasionally, until beans begin to split and beets are tender and golden, about 15 minutes. Roast mushrooms and tofu until golden and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 25 minutes. Let everything cool.
Place nuts in a food processor and pulse until coarsely ground. Add cooled bean-beet mixture, mushrooms, tofu, panko, cheese, eggs, mayonnaise, scallion, garlic, pimentón and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Pulse until ingredients are just combined. Pulse in tempeh and rice but do not overprocess. You want small chunks, not a smooth mixture. Scrape mixture into a bowl and chill at least 2 hours or up to 5 days (you can also freeze the burger mix).
When you are ready to make the burgers, divide mixture into 6 equal portions and form each portion into a patty about 1 inch thick. Return to the fridge until just before grilling. They grill better when they start out cold.
Heat the grill. Cook the burgers over a low fire until they are charred on both sides and firm when you press on them, 4 to 6 minutes per side. If they start to burn before they firm up, move them to the sides of the grill to finish cooking over indirect heat. Alternatively, you can cook these on a grill pan or in a skillet over low heat.
COCONUT RICE
This is from Tejal Rao in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Coconut milk lends rice both fat and sweetness, making it a richer, more mellow side than plain rice. To make it, simply replace half of the cooking water with coconut milk. It becomes a meal if you serve it with a fried egg, finely sliced pickled chiles with a little of their pickling liquid and some crushed peanuts. And if you wanted to turn it into dessert, serving it with ripe fruit like cut mango on top, you could stick to the recipe below, but bump the sugar up to 2 tablespoons.”
Yield: 3 to 4 servings; Time: 35 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
LEARN: How to Make Rice
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice, such as jasmine
3/4 cup coconut milk
1 scant tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3/4 cup water
Preparation
Rinse the rice a few times, until the water that drains away runs almost completely clear.
Put in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with coconut milk, water, sugar and salt. When the liquid comes up to a boil, give it a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and turn the heat down to low.
Cook for 15 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. Mix gently with a flexible rubber spatula. Taste, season with salt and serve.
BAKED ARANCINI WITH PEPPERY TOMATO SAUCE
This is from Michelle Stark of the Tampa Bay Times. Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
For the sauce:
1 red bell pepper
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
2 garlic cloves
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Handful of fresh basil, chopped
For the arancini:
1 to 2 cups panko bread crumbs
Salt, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
2 to 3 cups cooked and chilled risotto
1 egg
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Make the sauce: Cut the top off the red bell pepper, then halve it lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and ribs and cut into quarters. Place on a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with olive oil, making sure the pepper pieces are coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place in oven on the top rack and broil until pepper is very brown and charred. Keep an eye on it. When pepper pieces are mostly charred, remove from oven. Carefully remove any very charred skin and chop the rest of the pepper very finely. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add garlic and a swirl of olive oil. Cook for 5 minutes until garlic is lightly browned, then add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper and stir. Lower to a simmer and add red pepper flakes and basil. Taste it and adjust seasonings if desired. Simmer for 15 minutes while you prepare arancini.
Make the arancini: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread bread crumbs out on the parchment paper, spray with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt and garlic powder. Cook for 5 minutes, until crumbs are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, place cooked risotto in a large bowl, then add egg, yogurt, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Start adding flour 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing in between each addition. About 4 tablespoons in, try to form a ball about the size of a golf ball with the risotto. If mixture is too sticky or not holding together, add the rest of the flour. If ball holds together, you’re good to go.
Prepare another baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and coating with cooking spray. Gently roll risotto mixture into balls; you’ll likely get between 20 to 25. Place on balls on prepared baking sheet.
Carefully roll balls, one at a time, in bread crumbs on other baking sheet until each ball is coated entirely with crumbs.
Place arancini back on risotto baking sheet and spray generously with cooking spray. Season with salt and pepper and bake for about 25 minutes until brown. If you want them even browner, broil for about 5 minutes, watching them to make sure they don’t burn.
Serve hot with sauce on the side and more Parmesan cheese and parsley to garnish.
YUKON GOLD AND BABY SPINACH MARSALA
This is from the April 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Why Yukon gold potatoes? Because their creamy but firm texture make them a perfect fit for stews, plus the tender skin doesn't need to be peeled. Serve with steamed rice, and a sweet-and-sour chutney, such as Fresh Mango Chutney on vegetariantimes.com.” (Note: The recipe for Fresh Mango Chutney follows.) Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
2 Tbs. canola oil
1 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (4 cups)
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced (1 1/2 cups)
3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)
2 Tbs. minced fresh ginger
1 jalapeño chile,finely chopped (1 Tbs.)
1 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. turmeric
1 13.5-oz. can light coconut milk
1 6-oz. bag baby spinach
1 1/2 tsp. Garam Masala (recipe follows)
1 Tbs. lime juice
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Steam potatoes in steamer basket set over simmering water 10 minutes, or until just tender.
Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 8 minutes, or until soft and golden. Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeño, and sauté 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Add steamed potatoes, and sauté 1 to 2 minutes, to coat with spices. Add coconut milk and 1/4 cup water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 5 minutes, or until sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in spinach, garam masala, and 1/4 cup water, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until spinach is wilted. Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 347; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 16 g; Saturated Fat: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 45 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 382 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 3 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
GARAM MASALA
This comes from the September 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 70. It begins, “Once you’ve gotten the hang of roasting whole spices, it’s a snap to make your own version of this beloved Indian blend.” Makes 1/4 cup.
To view this online, click here.
1/4 cup whole cumin seeds
1 1/2-inch piece cinnamon stick
2 Tbs. whole coriander seeds
1 Tbs. green cardamom pods
1/2 tsp. black peppercorns
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp. whole cloves
Heat skillet over medium-low heat. Add all ingredients, and cook 12 minutes, or until light brown, shaking pan frequently. Cool.
Crush cardamom pods to release seeds inside. Discard pods, and grind cardamom seeds and cooled, roasted spices to fine powder with mortar and pestle or in spice grinder.
nutritional information Per 1/2 tsp.: Calories: 7; Protein: less than 1 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 1 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 2 mg; Fiber: less than 1 g; Sugar: less than 1 g; Vegan
FRESH MANGO CHUTNEY
This is from the May 2001 issue of Vegetarian Times. Makes 2 cups in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
1⁄4 cup raisins or currants
1⁄2 cup pine nuts
1 medium ripe mango
1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
2 Tbs. chopped cilantro
2 Tbs. chopped fresh mint
1 Tbs. fresh lime juice
1 Tbs. fresh orange juice
1 Tbs. pure maple syrup
1 tsp. minced fresh ginger
1/8 tsp. cayenne
In small bowl, soak raisins or currants in enough warm water to cover, until soft, about 10 minutes. Drain.
In small skillet over medium-high heat, toast pine nuts, shaking pan often until lightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes.
Peel mango and cut small slice off one end. Place mango, cut side down, on cutting board and work around pit, cutting each side of mango into large slices. Use paring knife to cut flesh away from pit. Roughly chop fruit into small pieces.
In medium bowl, combine mango with pine nuts, remaining ingredients and salt to taste; mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chutney will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
nutritional information Per 2-tablespoon serving: Calories: 24; Protein: 0 g; Total Fat: 1 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 0 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Vegan
THE ULTIMATE VEGGIE BURGER
This comes from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “You make a veggie burger because you want the hamburger experience without the meat. This one delivers. It’s got a firm, beefy texture that takes on the char and smoke of the grill, but is adaptable enough to cook inside on your stove. The enemy of a veggie burger is mushiness, which stems from a high moisture content. To combat that, the very watery ingredients – mushrooms, tofu, beans and beets – are roasted to both dehydrate them somewhat and intensify their flavors. Yes, the ingredient list here is long; you need a diverse lot to make a good veggie burger. And each one adds something in terms of flavor and/or texture. Garnish this any way you like, and don’t forget to toast the buns.” Yield: 6 burger.
This was featured in “The Ultimate Veggie Burger”, and can be found online here.
Also, there are two guides that went with this recipe that you might want to check out. The first is “How to Cook Beans”, and the second is “How to Grill”. Enjoy!
Ingredients
4 ounces extra-firm tofu, drained
Olive oil
1/2 pound cremini mushrooms, trimmed and sliced
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more as needed
Black pepper, as needed
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 medium beet, peeled and coarsely grated (3/4 cup)
3/4 cup tamari almonds or cashews
1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
2 ounces Cotija cheese or queso blanco, crumbled or grated (about 1/2 cup)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 scallions, sliced
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3/4 teaspoon dulce pimentón or sweet smoked paprika
4 ounces tempeh, crumbled
1/2 cup cooked brown rice
Preparation
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Slice tofu into 1/4-inch-thick slabs and pat dry with paper towel. Arrange tofu on one half of a rimmed baking sheet; brush both sides with oil. Spread mushrooms on the other half of the baking sheet; toss with 2 tablespoons oil and salt and pepper.
On a second rimmed baking sheet, toss beans and grated beet with 1 tablespoon oil and salt and pepper, then spread the mixture into one layer.
Transfer both baking sheets to the oven. Roast bean-beet mixture, tossing occasionally, until beans begin to split and beets are tender and golden, about 15 minutes. Roast mushrooms and tofu until golden and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 25 minutes. Let everything cool.
Place nuts in a food processor and pulse until coarsely ground. Add cooled bean-beet mixture, mushrooms, tofu, panko, cheese, eggs, mayonnaise, scallion, garlic, pimentón and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Pulse until ingredients are just combined. Pulse in tempeh and rice but do not overprocess. You want small chunks, not a smooth mixture. Scrape mixture into a bowl and chill at least 2 hours or up to 5 days (you can also freeze the burger mix).
When you are ready to make the burgers, divide mixture into 6 equal portions and form each portion into a patty about 1 inch thick. Return to the fridge until just before grilling. They grill better when they start out cold.
Heat the grill. Cook the burgers over a low fire until they are charred on both sides and firm when you press on them, 4 to 6 minutes per side. If they start to burn before they firm up, move them to the sides of the grill to finish cooking over indirect heat. Alternatively, you can cook these on a grill pan or in a skillet over low heat.
Taco Tuesday
It's time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's offerings include Mushroom Corn and Poblano Soft Tacos with Avocado Cream and Veggie Tacos. Enjoy!
EDAMAME TACOS WITH PEANUT SAUCE
This yummy recipe comes from Alissa, whose blog, Connoisseurus Veg, looks really fantastic.
Alissa wrote, “These crunchy edamame tacos are filled with a blend of tender cilantro-lime seasoned soybeans, fresh greens and Thai peanut sauce,” adding, “Mexican-Thai-Japanese fusion at its finest.”
Serves 4; Prep Times: 5 min; Cook Time: 10 min; Total Time: 15.
To view this on Alissa’s blog, click here.
Ingredients
For Peanut Sauce
1/4 cup natural peanut butter
1 tbsp. soy sauce
1 tbsp. maple syrup or agave
1-2 tbsp. water
For the Edamame Tacos
1 tbsp. canola oil (or other neutral-flavored vegetable oil)
1 medium onion, diced
2 large garlic cloves, minced
2 cups cooked, shelled edamame
1 1/2 tbsp. lime juice
1/4 tsp. salt
3 tbsp. finely chopped fresh cilantro
2 scallions, chopped
about 2 cups baby spinach, arugula or spring mix
8 taco shells, preferably homemade
Instructions
Make the Peanut Sauce
Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl, adding as much water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Make the Edamame Tacos
Heat oil in medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and edamame. Continue to sauté until edamame begin to brown in spots, about another 5 minutes.
Add lime juice and salt. Sauté another 30 seconds and remove from heat.
Add cilantro and scallions. Mix well.
Divide mixture among taco shells and top with greens and peanut sauce.
GRILLED TOFU TACOS WITH WALLA WALLA SWEET ONION SLAW
I originally found this at Oh My Veggies. The site has a mess of taco recipes from different places, which can be found http://ohmyveggies.com/vegetarian-taco-recipes/>here.
The recipe is actually called Grilled Tofu Tacos with Walla Walla Sweet Onion Slaw (And Optional Chicken), but I've left the chicken out, for obvious reasons. This recipe begins, “Smoky seasoned tofu, creamy avocado, and crunchy slaw make these super easy summer tacos shine.”
PREP: 2 HOURS 20 MINUTES COOK: 15 MINUTES TOTAL: 2 HOURS 35 MINUTES; YIELD: 10-12 TACOS.
This is from Kitchen Treaty and can be viewed online at http://www.kitchentreaty.com/grilled-tofu-tacos-with-walla-walla-sweet-onion-slaw-and-optional-chicken/
Ingredients
2 (14-ounce) blocks extra-firm tofu
For the marinade:
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
For the slaw:
1/2 medium cabbage, quartered and thinly sliced
1/2 medium Walla Walla Sweet onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup lime juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Plus:
1 large avocado, sliced
10-12 tortillas (depending on how full you like to stuff your tacos)*
Directions:
Press tofu to drain. I place each block on a dinner plate on top of a layer of paper towels, then place more paper towels on top. Then I put 3-4 dinner plates on top and let it press down on the tofu for 20-30 minutes. Slice tofu into 6-7 1/2-inch pieces. Place in a zipper bag or container with airtight cover.
Make the marinade. Add all marinade ingredients to a small bowl and whisk until combined. Pour marinade over tofu. Place in refrigerator and marinate for 2 hours.
Heat grill to medium-high, about 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook tofu until browned and cooked through, 10-14 minutes. We only have one grill, so we always use the left side for my vegetarian stuff, and the right side for the meaty stuff. Remove tofu from grill and let cool enough to cut into taco-size pieces (I just cut the tofu pieces in half).
Place the tortillas on the grill and heat until slightly browned and heated through, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Keep on a plate covered by a damp dishtowel until ready to serve.
While the tofu and tortillas are cooking, make the slaw. In a large bowl, toss together all ingredients with salad tongs or your clean hands. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if desired.
To assemble tacos, grab a tortilla and lay one or two avocado slices on the bottom. Top with a coulple pieces of tofu, and top with slaw. Serve.
*GLUTEN-FREE OPTION
Use corn tortillas (or other gluten-free tortillas)
SMOKY SWEET POTATO AND BLACK BEAN TACOS
This is from a really cool site, How Sweet Eats. I really encourage you to check it out. Go ahead, I’ll wait. (Tap, tap, tap…)
This recipe makes 8 tacos; Total Time: 35 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
8 flour tortillas, warmed
1 cup freshly grated manchego cheese
fresh cilantro for topping
lime wedges
Chipotle Lime Crema
3 tablespoons greek yogurt
3/4 cup half and half
1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from a can of chipotles in adobo)
juice of half a lime
zest of half a lime
1/8 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Season chopped sweet potatoes with salt, pepper, cumin and smoked paprika. Heat a large skillet oven medium heat and add olive oil. Add onions and garlic, tossing to coat, then add sweet potatoes and stir. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until sweet potatoes are just softened and cooked through.
While potatoes are cooking, combine yogurt, half and half, adobo, lime juice and zest and salt, whisking well to combine. Set aside.
Once sweet potatoes are cooked, add in black beans and toss well. Cover and cook again for 5-6 minutes until everything is warmed through. Heat tortillas and serve sweet potato mixture topped with cheese, crema and lots of cilantro!
BUTTERNUT SQUASH TACOS WITH CRANBERRY-JALAPENO RELISH
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 4-6 servings; Serving Size: 2-3 tacos
Relish adapted from The New York Times
Read more at http://ohmyveggies.com/butternut-squash-tacos-with-cranberry-jalapeno-relish/
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
12 small corn tortillas
2 cups cooked black beans
For the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish:
1 (12-ounce) package fresh cranberries
1 1/2 pounds tart apples, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
Instructions
Preheat oven to 450°F.
In a large bowl, toss together the butternut squash, olive oil and salt. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer and roast until tender, 20-30 minutes, tossing once halfway through.
Meanwhile, prepare the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, apples, sugar and apple cider vinegar. Cook, stirring frequently, until sugar has dissolved. Raise the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly, until cranberries start to pop and mixture has thickened, 5-7 minutes. Stir in the jalapeño and ginger and remove from heat.
Warm the corn tortillas according to package directions. Serve the tortillas stuffed with the butternut squash and black beans, and topped with the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish.
Notes
Both the butternut squash and relish can be made ahead of time! Just reheat the butternut squash before stuffing it into the tortillas.
MUSHROOM, CORN AND POBLANO SOFT TACOS WITH AVOCADO CREAM
I originally found this at Oh My Veggies. The site has a mess of taco recipes from different places, which can be found http://ohmyveggies.com/vegetarian-taco-recipes/>here.
From Garnish with Lemon. View this online at http://www.garnishwithlemon.com/mushroom-corn-and-poblano-soft-tacos-with-avocado-cream/ Yields 5.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 (8-ounce) package mushrooms, sliced
1 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 large poblano pepper, seeded and chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn
1 (14.5-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup salsa
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, divided
1 teaspoon hot sauce (or more, depending on your preference)
Kosher salt
10 taco-sized corn or flour tortillas
1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1/2 cup sour cream
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir in onions, oregano, garlic, chili powder, cumin and poblano pepper and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add corn and beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove pan from heat and stir in salsa, 1 tablespoon lime juice and hot sauce. Season to taste with salt.
Place avocado, sour cream and remaining lime juice in a blender and blend until smooth. If avocado cream is too thick, add additional lime juice to reach desired consistency. Season to taste with salt.
Warm tortillas according to package directions. Spoon mushroom mixture into tortillas, garnish with avocado cream and chopped cilantro. Serve.
VEGGIE TACOS
This is from Taste of Home, and begins, “These vegetarian tacos are stuffed with a blend of sauteed cabbage, peppers and black beans so filling, you won't miss the meat. Top with avocado, cheese or a dollop of sour cream.”
Featured In: 39 Quick Vegetarian Meals for Winter Weeknights
Makes: 4 servings; Total Time: 30 minutes.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons canola oil
3 cups shredded cabbage
1 medium sweet red pepper, julienned
1 medium onion, halved and sliced
2 teaspoons sugar
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup salsa
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
8 taco shells, warmed
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
Direcions
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; saute cabbage, pepper and onion until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar.
Stir in beans, salsa, chilies, garlic, chili powder and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until flavors are blended, about 5 minutes.
Serve in taco shells. Top with cheese and avocado.
EDAMAME TACOS WITH PEANUT SAUCE
This yummy recipe comes from Alissa, whose blog, Connoisseurus Veg, looks really fantastic.
Alissa wrote, “These crunchy edamame tacos are filled with a blend of tender cilantro-lime seasoned soybeans, fresh greens and Thai peanut sauce,” adding, “Mexican-Thai-Japanese fusion at its finest.”
Serves 4; Prep Times: 5 min; Cook Time: 10 min; Total Time: 15.
To view this on Alissa’s blog, click here.
Ingredients
For Peanut Sauce
1/4 cup natural peanut butter
1 tbsp. soy sauce
1 tbsp. maple syrup or agave
1-2 tbsp. water
For the Edamame Tacos
1 tbsp. canola oil (or other neutral-flavored vegetable oil)
1 medium onion, diced
2 large garlic cloves, minced
2 cups cooked, shelled edamame
1 1/2 tbsp. lime juice
1/4 tsp. salt
3 tbsp. finely chopped fresh cilantro
2 scallions, chopped
about 2 cups baby spinach, arugula or spring mix
8 taco shells, preferably homemade
Instructions
Make the Peanut Sauce
Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl, adding as much water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Make the Edamame Tacos
Heat oil in medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and edamame. Continue to sauté until edamame begin to brown in spots, about another 5 minutes.
Add lime juice and salt. Sauté another 30 seconds and remove from heat.
Add cilantro and scallions. Mix well.
Divide mixture among taco shells and top with greens and peanut sauce.
GRILLED TOFU TACOS WITH WALLA WALLA SWEET ONION SLAW
I originally found this at Oh My Veggies. The site has a mess of taco recipes from different places, which can be found http://ohmyveggies.com/vegetarian-taco-recipes/>here.
The recipe is actually called Grilled Tofu Tacos with Walla Walla Sweet Onion Slaw (And Optional Chicken), but I've left the chicken out, for obvious reasons. This recipe begins, “Smoky seasoned tofu, creamy avocado, and crunchy slaw make these super easy summer tacos shine.”
PREP: 2 HOURS 20 MINUTES COOK: 15 MINUTES TOTAL: 2 HOURS 35 MINUTES; YIELD: 10-12 TACOS.
This is from Kitchen Treaty and can be viewed online at http://www.kitchentreaty.com/grilled-tofu-tacos-with-walla-walla-sweet-onion-slaw-and-optional-chicken/
Ingredients
2 (14-ounce) blocks extra-firm tofu
For the marinade:
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
For the slaw:
1/2 medium cabbage, quartered and thinly sliced
1/2 medium Walla Walla Sweet onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup lime juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Plus:
1 large avocado, sliced
10-12 tortillas (depending on how full you like to stuff your tacos)*
Directions:
Press tofu to drain. I place each block on a dinner plate on top of a layer of paper towels, then place more paper towels on top. Then I put 3-4 dinner plates on top and let it press down on the tofu for 20-30 minutes. Slice tofu into 6-7 1/2-inch pieces. Place in a zipper bag or container with airtight cover.
Make the marinade. Add all marinade ingredients to a small bowl and whisk until combined. Pour marinade over tofu. Place in refrigerator and marinate for 2 hours.
Heat grill to medium-high, about 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook tofu until browned and cooked through, 10-14 minutes. We only have one grill, so we always use the left side for my vegetarian stuff, and the right side for the meaty stuff. Remove tofu from grill and let cool enough to cut into taco-size pieces (I just cut the tofu pieces in half).
Place the tortillas on the grill and heat until slightly browned and heated through, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Keep on a plate covered by a damp dishtowel until ready to serve.
While the tofu and tortillas are cooking, make the slaw. In a large bowl, toss together all ingredients with salad tongs or your clean hands. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if desired.
To assemble tacos, grab a tortilla and lay one or two avocado slices on the bottom. Top with a coulple pieces of tofu, and top with slaw. Serve.
*GLUTEN-FREE OPTION
Use corn tortillas (or other gluten-free tortillas)
SMOKY SWEET POTATO AND BLACK BEAN TACOS
This is from a really cool site, How Sweet Eats. I really encourage you to check it out. Go ahead, I’ll wait. (Tap, tap, tap…)
This recipe makes 8 tacos; Total Time: 35 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
8 flour tortillas, warmed
1 cup freshly grated manchego cheese
fresh cilantro for topping
lime wedges
Chipotle Lime Crema
3 tablespoons greek yogurt
3/4 cup half and half
1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from a can of chipotles in adobo)
juice of half a lime
zest of half a lime
1/8 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Season chopped sweet potatoes with salt, pepper, cumin and smoked paprika. Heat a large skillet oven medium heat and add olive oil. Add onions and garlic, tossing to coat, then add sweet potatoes and stir. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until sweet potatoes are just softened and cooked through.
While potatoes are cooking, combine yogurt, half and half, adobo, lime juice and zest and salt, whisking well to combine. Set aside.
Once sweet potatoes are cooked, add in black beans and toss well. Cover and cook again for 5-6 minutes until everything is warmed through. Heat tortillas and serve sweet potato mixture topped with cheese, crema and lots of cilantro!
BUTTERNUT SQUASH TACOS WITH CRANBERRY-JALAPENO RELISH
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 4-6 servings; Serving Size: 2-3 tacos
Relish adapted from The New York Times
Read more at http://ohmyveggies.com/butternut-squash-tacos-with-cranberry-jalapeno-relish/
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
12 small corn tortillas
2 cups cooked black beans
For the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish:
1 (12-ounce) package fresh cranberries
1 1/2 pounds tart apples, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
Instructions
Preheat oven to 450°F.
In a large bowl, toss together the butternut squash, olive oil and salt. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer and roast until tender, 20-30 minutes, tossing once halfway through.
Meanwhile, prepare the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, apples, sugar and apple cider vinegar. Cook, stirring frequently, until sugar has dissolved. Raise the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly, until cranberries start to pop and mixture has thickened, 5-7 minutes. Stir in the jalapeño and ginger and remove from heat.
Warm the corn tortillas according to package directions. Serve the tortillas stuffed with the butternut squash and black beans, and topped with the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish.
Notes
Both the butternut squash and relish can be made ahead of time! Just reheat the butternut squash before stuffing it into the tortillas.
MUSHROOM, CORN AND POBLANO SOFT TACOS WITH AVOCADO CREAM
I originally found this at Oh My Veggies. The site has a mess of taco recipes from different places, which can be found http://ohmyveggies.com/vegetarian-taco-recipes/>here.
From Garnish with Lemon. View this online at http://www.garnishwithlemon.com/mushroom-corn-and-poblano-soft-tacos-with-avocado-cream/ Yields 5.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 (8-ounce) package mushrooms, sliced
1 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 large poblano pepper, seeded and chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn
1 (14.5-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup salsa
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, divided
1 teaspoon hot sauce (or more, depending on your preference)
Kosher salt
10 taco-sized corn or flour tortillas
1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1/2 cup sour cream
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir in onions, oregano, garlic, chili powder, cumin and poblano pepper and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add corn and beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove pan from heat and stir in salsa, 1 tablespoon lime juice and hot sauce. Season to taste with salt.
Place avocado, sour cream and remaining lime juice in a blender and blend until smooth. If avocado cream is too thick, add additional lime juice to reach desired consistency. Season to taste with salt.
Warm tortillas according to package directions. Spoon mushroom mixture into tortillas, garnish with avocado cream and chopped cilantro. Serve.
VEGGIE TACOS
This is from Taste of Home, and begins, “These vegetarian tacos are stuffed with a blend of sauteed cabbage, peppers and black beans so filling, you won't miss the meat. Top with avocado, cheese or a dollop of sour cream.”
Featured In: 39 Quick Vegetarian Meals for Winter Weeknights
Makes: 4 servings; Total Time: 30 minutes.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons canola oil
3 cups shredded cabbage
1 medium sweet red pepper, julienned
1 medium onion, halved and sliced
2 teaspoons sugar
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup salsa
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
8 taco shells, warmed
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
Direcions
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; saute cabbage, pepper and onion until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar.
Stir in beans, salsa, chilies, garlic, chili powder and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until flavors are blended, about 5 minutes.
Serve in taco shells. Top with cheese and avocado.
Monday, April 23, 2018
Monday Recipes
Here are six recipes to start your week off, including Stuffed Shells and Deep-Dish Apple Pie. Enjoy!
RED VELVET CHEESECAKE
Recipe courtesy of Food Network Kitchen
Total: 2 hr; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 1 hr 40 min; Yield: 10 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups finely crushed chocolate wafer cookies (about 28 cookies)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup sugar
Pinch of salt
For the filling:
4 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon red food coloring
Directions
Watch how to make this recipe.
Make the crust: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Mix the cookie crumbs, melted butter, sugar and salt in a bowl. Press into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Put the pan on a baking sheet and bake until set, about 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
Make the filling: Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F. Beat the cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice and vanilla in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the flour, then beat in the eggs one at a time. Transfer 2 cups batter to a bowl; stir in the cocoa powder and food coloring. Pour the red batter into the crust, then pour the white batter on top. Using a spoon, pull some of the red batter up from the bottom of the cake and swirl. Bake until the edges are set but the center is still wobbly, about 1 hour, 20 minutes.
Turn off the oven but keep the cake inside to cool, 20 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pan (don't remove the springform side), then transfer to a rack to cool. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before slicing.
LEMON SPIKED GARLIC GREENS
Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 Servings
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
Book Title: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
View online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/lemon-spiked-garlic-greens.
Ingredients
Garlic-flavored vegetable cooking spray
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-1/2 pounds greens, washed, stems removed, coarsely chopped
1/3 cup water
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Spray large saucepan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute onion and garlic until tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
Add greens and water to saucepan; heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until greens are wilted and tender, about 5 to 8 minutes, adding more water if necessary. Season to taste with lemon juice, salt and pepper.
Notes:
Kale, collard, turnip, or beet greens are excellent choices for this quick-and-easy healthy vegetable.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Fat: 1.7 g; Sodium: 43 mg; Cholesterol: 53.3 mg; Protein: 5.9 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Vegetable
COCONUT RICE
This is from Tejal Rao in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Coconut milk lends rice both fat and sweetness, making it a richer, more mellow side than plain rice. To make it, simply replace half of the cooking water with coconut milk. It becomes a meal if you serve it with a fried egg, finely sliced pickled chiles with a little of their pickling liquid and some crushed peanuts. And if you wanted to turn it into dessert, serving it with ripe fruit like cut mango on top, you could stick to the recipe below, but bump the sugar up to 2 tablespoons.”
Yield: 3 to 4 servings; Time: 35 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
LEARN: How to Make Rice
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice, such as jasmine
3/4 cup coconut milk
1 scant tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3/4 cup water
Preparation
Rinse the rice a few times, until the water that drains away runs almost completely clear.
Put in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with coconut milk, water, sugar and salt. When the liquid comes up to a boil, give it a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and turn the heat down to low.
Cook for 15 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. Mix gently with a flexible rubber spatula. Taste, season with salt and serve.
STUFFED SHELLS I
This is from SallyJun at AllRecipes. SallyJun wrote, "Jumbo macaroni shells stuffed with cheese mixture, covered with sauce, and baked."
Prep: 25 m; Cook: 25 m; Ready In: 50 m
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells
4 cups large curd cottage cheese
12 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 pinch garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 (26 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Cook shells according to package directions. Place in cold water to stop cooking. Drain.
Mix together cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, eggs, and garlic powder. Rub the dried herbs in the palms of your hands to pulverize them, and stir into the cheese mixture. Stuff mixture into the shells.
Spread 1/3 of spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 15 x 10 inch pan. Place shells open side up, and close together in pan. Spread remaining sauce over top, and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
LATE SUMMER MINESTRONE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND FRESH CORN
This comes from the September 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 61. It starts off, “Bright, beautiful, and bursting with veggies, this colorful minestrone is a great way to stretch the harvest.” Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 cup sliced leeks
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 tsp. salt, optional
4 cloves garlic, minced (4 tsp.)
1 Tbs. chopped fresh sage, or 2 tsp. dried sage
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
2 large tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped (1 cup)
2 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (3/4- to 1-inch cubes)
2 cups green beans or flat beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 15-oz. can or 1 1/2 cups cooked white beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
2–3 Tbs. chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish, optional
Heat oil in 5-qt. Dutch oven or other large soup pot over medium heat. Add leeks, celery, bell pepper, and salt, if using. Cover, and cook 6 to 8 minutes, or until veggies are softened, stirring occasionally. Uncover, and continue cooking 5 to 6 minutes more, or until celery is somewhat shrunken and leeks are browned.
Add garlic, sage, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Stir 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add tomatoes and 8 cups water, and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes. Add squash, cover, and simmer 10 minutes. Add green beans, white beans, and corn; simmer 10 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, stir in vinegar and mint.
nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 185; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 5 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 30 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 130 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Sugar: 7 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
DEEP-DISH APPLE PIE
This comes Julia Moskin in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Julia wrote, “If you’re going to the trouble of making a pie, why not make it a blockbuster? This pie, adapted from the professional pie coach Kate McDermott, is both deeper and wider than the traditional nine-inch version. The thicker rim is especially satisfying, like a buttery, crumbly slab of shortbread. You can use a 10-inch deep-dish pie pan, or a deep nine- or 10-inch square, or another 2 1/2- to 3-quart baking dish of your choice. A mix of apple types always makes the best filling.”
Yield: 12 to 16 servings; Time: 2 hours, plus chilling and cooling
This was featured in “An apple Pie That Lasts For Days” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, more for dusting surfaces
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
12 ounces cold unsalted butter (3 sticks), cut into large dice
For the Filling:
About 10 cups peeled and sliced apples, more as needed (see note)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1 to 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice or 1 tablespoon unfiltered apple cider vinegar
1 to 2 tablespoons Calvados or other apple liqueur, brandy or cider
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
1 egg
2 teaspoons coarse or granulated sugar for sprinkling
Preparation
Make the crust: In a food processor or stand mixer, mix together the flour, salt and sugar. Add butter and pulse (or mix at medium-low speed) until the pieces are coated with flour. Add 1/2 cup ice water and mix until incorporated. Keep dribbling in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together into a lump. It should be moist, but not sticky. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. (If dough feels wet, use a little extra flour.) Press the dough together, turning over a few times, until smooth and solid.
Shape into 2 disks, using about 1/3 of the dough for the top crust and the remaining 2/3 for the bottom crust. Wrap separately in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to 2 days.
On a lightly floured surface or nonstick baking mat, roll out the larger disk to about 1/4-inch thickness. The size and shape will depend on your dish. Use the crust to line a large 2 1/2- to 3-quart baking dish, like a 10-inch round or 9-inch square, at least 2 inches deep. Refrigerate while you prepare the apples.
Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the apples, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice or vinegar, 1 tablespoon Calvados and flour. Toss together until the apples are roughly coated with what looks like wet sand. If filling is dry, add the remaining tablespoon of Calvados. Pour into the pie crust, mounding above the rim, and dot with butter. (If necessary, add more apple pieces to the top. Don't worry about mixing them in.)
Roll out remaining dough to 1/4-inch thickness (or a bit less) and lay it gently over the fruit. Trim any excess and fold the edges into a thick rim. Crimp, if desired.
Whisk the egg thoroughly with 1 tablespoon cold water. Brush over the entire top crust, including the edges. Cut 5 or 6 vents on top. Refrigerate pie while the oven heats.
Place a baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and heat to 425 degrees. Place pie on baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 375 degrees. Bake another 25 minutes.
Open the oven and carefully sprinkle the sugar over the surface of the pie. Bake about 10 minutes longer. Look for steam and bubbling juices coming out of the vents, and a well-browned crust, before removing the pie from the oven.
Let cool at least 1 hour before serving.
Tip
A mix of sweet and tart, crisp and soft apples produces the best filling. If using mainly firm apples (like Honeycrisp, Gala, Cameo or Golden Delicious), try to add a few that will soften and become jammy (like Idared, McIntosh or Cortland).
RED VELVET CHEESECAKE
Recipe courtesy of Food Network Kitchen
Total: 2 hr; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 1 hr 40 min; Yield: 10 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups finely crushed chocolate wafer cookies (about 28 cookies)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup sugar
Pinch of salt
For the filling:
4 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon red food coloring
Directions
Watch how to make this recipe.
Make the crust: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Mix the cookie crumbs, melted butter, sugar and salt in a bowl. Press into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Put the pan on a baking sheet and bake until set, about 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
Make the filling: Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F. Beat the cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice and vanilla in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the flour, then beat in the eggs one at a time. Transfer 2 cups batter to a bowl; stir in the cocoa powder and food coloring. Pour the red batter into the crust, then pour the white batter on top. Using a spoon, pull some of the red batter up from the bottom of the cake and swirl. Bake until the edges are set but the center is still wobbly, about 1 hour, 20 minutes.
Turn off the oven but keep the cake inside to cool, 20 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pan (don't remove the springform side), then transfer to a rack to cool. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before slicing.
LEMON SPIKED GARLIC GREENS
Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 Servings
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
Book Title: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
View online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/lemon-spiked-garlic-greens.
Ingredients
Garlic-flavored vegetable cooking spray
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-1/2 pounds greens, washed, stems removed, coarsely chopped
1/3 cup water
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Spray large saucepan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute onion and garlic until tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
Add greens and water to saucepan; heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until greens are wilted and tender, about 5 to 8 minutes, adding more water if necessary. Season to taste with lemon juice, salt and pepper.
Notes:
Kale, collard, turnip, or beet greens are excellent choices for this quick-and-easy healthy vegetable.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Fat: 1.7 g; Sodium: 43 mg; Cholesterol: 53.3 mg; Protein: 5.9 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Vegetable
COCONUT RICE
This is from Tejal Rao in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Coconut milk lends rice both fat and sweetness, making it a richer, more mellow side than plain rice. To make it, simply replace half of the cooking water with coconut milk. It becomes a meal if you serve it with a fried egg, finely sliced pickled chiles with a little of their pickling liquid and some crushed peanuts. And if you wanted to turn it into dessert, serving it with ripe fruit like cut mango on top, you could stick to the recipe below, but bump the sugar up to 2 tablespoons.”
Yield: 3 to 4 servings; Time: 35 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
LEARN: How to Make Rice
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice, such as jasmine
3/4 cup coconut milk
1 scant tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3/4 cup water
Preparation
Rinse the rice a few times, until the water that drains away runs almost completely clear.
Put in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with coconut milk, water, sugar and salt. When the liquid comes up to a boil, give it a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and turn the heat down to low.
Cook for 15 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. Mix gently with a flexible rubber spatula. Taste, season with salt and serve.
STUFFED SHELLS I
This is from SallyJun at AllRecipes. SallyJun wrote, "Jumbo macaroni shells stuffed with cheese mixture, covered with sauce, and baked."
Prep: 25 m; Cook: 25 m; Ready In: 50 m
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells
4 cups large curd cottage cheese
12 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 pinch garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 (26 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Cook shells according to package directions. Place in cold water to stop cooking. Drain.
Mix together cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, eggs, and garlic powder. Rub the dried herbs in the palms of your hands to pulverize them, and stir into the cheese mixture. Stuff mixture into the shells.
Spread 1/3 of spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 15 x 10 inch pan. Place shells open side up, and close together in pan. Spread remaining sauce over top, and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
LATE SUMMER MINESTRONE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND FRESH CORN
This comes from the September 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 61. It starts off, “Bright, beautiful, and bursting with veggies, this colorful minestrone is a great way to stretch the harvest.” Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 cup sliced leeks
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 tsp. salt, optional
4 cloves garlic, minced (4 tsp.)
1 Tbs. chopped fresh sage, or 2 tsp. dried sage
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
2 large tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped (1 cup)
2 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (3/4- to 1-inch cubes)
2 cups green beans or flat beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 15-oz. can or 1 1/2 cups cooked white beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
2–3 Tbs. chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish, optional
Heat oil in 5-qt. Dutch oven or other large soup pot over medium heat. Add leeks, celery, bell pepper, and salt, if using. Cover, and cook 6 to 8 minutes, or until veggies are softened, stirring occasionally. Uncover, and continue cooking 5 to 6 minutes more, or until celery is somewhat shrunken and leeks are browned.
Add garlic, sage, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Stir 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add tomatoes and 8 cups water, and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes. Add squash, cover, and simmer 10 minutes. Add green beans, white beans, and corn; simmer 10 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, stir in vinegar and mint.
nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 185; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 5 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 30 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 130 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Sugar: 7 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
DEEP-DISH APPLE PIE
This comes Julia Moskin in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Julia wrote, “If you’re going to the trouble of making a pie, why not make it a blockbuster? This pie, adapted from the professional pie coach Kate McDermott, is both deeper and wider than the traditional nine-inch version. The thicker rim is especially satisfying, like a buttery, crumbly slab of shortbread. You can use a 10-inch deep-dish pie pan, or a deep nine- or 10-inch square, or another 2 1/2- to 3-quart baking dish of your choice. A mix of apple types always makes the best filling.”
Yield: 12 to 16 servings; Time: 2 hours, plus chilling and cooling
This was featured in “An apple Pie That Lasts For Days” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, more for dusting surfaces
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
12 ounces cold unsalted butter (3 sticks), cut into large dice
For the Filling:
About 10 cups peeled and sliced apples, more as needed (see note)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1 to 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice or 1 tablespoon unfiltered apple cider vinegar
1 to 2 tablespoons Calvados or other apple liqueur, brandy or cider
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
1 egg
2 teaspoons coarse or granulated sugar for sprinkling
Preparation
Make the crust: In a food processor or stand mixer, mix together the flour, salt and sugar. Add butter and pulse (or mix at medium-low speed) until the pieces are coated with flour. Add 1/2 cup ice water and mix until incorporated. Keep dribbling in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together into a lump. It should be moist, but not sticky. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. (If dough feels wet, use a little extra flour.) Press the dough together, turning over a few times, until smooth and solid.
Shape into 2 disks, using about 1/3 of the dough for the top crust and the remaining 2/3 for the bottom crust. Wrap separately in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to 2 days.
On a lightly floured surface or nonstick baking mat, roll out the larger disk to about 1/4-inch thickness. The size and shape will depend on your dish. Use the crust to line a large 2 1/2- to 3-quart baking dish, like a 10-inch round or 9-inch square, at least 2 inches deep. Refrigerate while you prepare the apples.
Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the apples, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice or vinegar, 1 tablespoon Calvados and flour. Toss together until the apples are roughly coated with what looks like wet sand. If filling is dry, add the remaining tablespoon of Calvados. Pour into the pie crust, mounding above the rim, and dot with butter. (If necessary, add more apple pieces to the top. Don't worry about mixing them in.)
Roll out remaining dough to 1/4-inch thickness (or a bit less) and lay it gently over the fruit. Trim any excess and fold the edges into a thick rim. Crimp, if desired.
Whisk the egg thoroughly with 1 tablespoon cold water. Brush over the entire top crust, including the edges. Cut 5 or 6 vents on top. Refrigerate pie while the oven heats.
Place a baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and heat to 425 degrees. Place pie on baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 375 degrees. Bake another 25 minutes.
Open the oven and carefully sprinkle the sugar over the surface of the pie. Bake about 10 minutes longer. Look for steam and bubbling juices coming out of the vents, and a well-browned crust, before removing the pie from the oven.
Let cool at least 1 hour before serving.
Tip
A mix of sweet and tart, crisp and soft apples produces the best filling. If using mainly firm apples (like Honeycrisp, Gala, Cameo or Golden Delicious), try to add a few that will soften and become jammy (like Idared, McIntosh or Cortland).
Friday, April 20, 2018
Friday Recipes
It's finally Friday. (Yay!) Here are six recipes to help you through the weekend, including Cherry Tomato Spaghetti and Key Lime Pie. Enjoy!
VEGETARIAN CHILI
This comes from Ken Stross in Runner’s World. It begins, “Bursting with protein and fiber, this chili makes a hearty dinner. Serve with brown rice and a green salad.” Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
To view this online, go to http://www.runnersworld.com/recipes/vegetarian-chili.
Ingredients
4 ribs celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 large onions, chopped
2 large green bell peppers, chopped
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 cups frozen whole kernel corn
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles
1 cup salsa
1 cup low-sodium tomato or vegetable juice
1 1/2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground smoked paprika
Directions
Combine the celery, garlic, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, beans, chickpeas, corn, chiles, salsa, juice, broth, cumin, chili powder, and paprika in a large stockpot.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
CHERRY TOMATO SPAGHETTI
This comes from Giada De Laurentiis, and begins, “Quick-and-easy spaghetti topped with a sauce of cherry tomatoes, basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.”
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Serving Size: Serves 4-6
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound dried spaghetti pasta
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 shallot, minced
2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
2 pints red cherry tomatoes
1 pint small yellow tomatoes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup thinly sliced basil
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt generously. Cook the spaghetti to al dente and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the shallot and garlic, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes and salt and reduce the heat to medium low. Simmer the mixture until the tomatoes are slightly popped, 15 to 20 minutes.
Add the pasta, Parmesan, pasta water, and basil and toss thoroughly with tongs. Serve warm or at room temperature.
PORTOBELLO LASAGNA ROLLUPS
This comes from Ellie Krieger of The Food Network’s Healthy Appetite with Ellie Krieger. This begins, “Part-skim ricotta and mozzarella keep the fat count low in these cheesy roll-ups, while a little bold-flavored Parmesan goes a long way flavor-wise.”
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ellie-krieger/portobello-lasagna-rollups-recipe.html?oc=linkback
Total Time: 1 hr 30 min; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 1 hr 10 min; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
12 whole wheat lasagna noodles (about 12 ounces)
2 teaspoons olive oil 12 ounces portobello mushrooms, chopped (about 3 medium)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
4 cups Easy Tomato Sauce, recipe follows, or store-bought marinara sauce
One 15-ounce container part-skim ricotta cheese
One 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Freshly ground black pepper
Pinch ground nutmeg
3 ounces grated part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 2/3 cup)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Easy Tomato Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Two 28-ounce cans whole tomatoes, drained, chopped
1 bay leaf
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Cook the noodles to al dente according to the directions on the package. Drain them well and spread them out onto aluminum foil or waxed paper to prevent them from sticking.
Heat the oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and all the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the tomato sauce and simmer for 2 minutes. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, spinach, egg, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, a few turns of pepper and nutmeg.
Spread 1 cup of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9- by 12-inch baking dish. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture onto a lasagna noodle. Top with about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mushroom mixture, roll the noodle and place it into the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles. Spread the remaining 1 1/2 cups sauce over the lasagna rolls. Top with the grated cheeses, cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 minutes more.
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes longer. Add the tomato paste, dried oregano, whole tomatoes and bay leaf, and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
SWEET POTATO-PECAN PIE
This recipe is from Publix. Servings: 12; Total Time: about 3 1/2 hours; Active Time: 20 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 large sweet potato
2 tablespoons + 3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, divided
1 tablespoon heavy cream
4 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
1 egg + 2 eggs, beaten
1 frozen deep-dish piecrust
3/4 cup dark corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup chopped pecans
Whipped topping, optional
Directions
Preheat oven to 325°F. Melt butter. Peel potato and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 2 cups). Place in microwave-safe bowl and cover; microwave on HIGH 7–8 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork. Mash with potato masher (or hand mixer).
Combine in medium bowl: potatoes, 1 tablespoon butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, cream, 2 teaspoons vanilla, and 1 egg; beat with hand mixer on medium speed until smooth. Spread over bottom of piecrust.
Combine in second bowl: remaining 2 tablespoons butter, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 eggs, corn syrup, salt, pecans, remaining 1/4 teaspoon pie spice, and remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla until thoroughly blended; pour over sweet potatoes. Bake 60–65 minutes or until center is set. Let stand 2 hours (or overnight), to cool. Serve with whipped topping.
POTATO CAVATELLI
This comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Kim wrote, “These are an easy, homey version of handmade pasta that freeze well. They are sturdier and more toothsome than gnocchi but have more character than dried cavatelli. It takes a little practice to get the flip of the indentation just right, but once you get the feel for it you can turn out enough for dinner quickly. They hold up well under a heavy tomato ragù, but also take well to a simple sauce of butter, a little pasta water and Parmesan or pecorino. This recipe is easy to double, too, which leaves plenty to freeze for another night. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet dusted in flour, then store in a zippered plastic bag.” Time: 45 minutes; makes 6 servings as a first course, 4 as a main course.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 large russet potatoes
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup neutral oil, like canola
1 teaspoon kosher salt
4 eggs
3 cups flour/450 grams, plus more for rolling
Preparation
Boil potatoes unpeeled and send through a ricer to make 2 cups. Alternately, peel and boil, then mash. Mix in butter and milk. Let cool.
In a sturdy bowl, using a stand mixer with a dough hook, or a wooden spoon or your hands, mix potatoes, oil, salt and eggs until smooth. Work in 2 cups flour, gradually adding more until dough is stiff and not sticky. (The amount of flour needed can vary greatly.)
Pinch off a ball of dough, roll into a rope about an inch in diameter and cut into 3/4-inch dumplings. On a floured surface, press your thumb against the cut side of each dumpling and press down and away, so the dough flattens and flips up over your thumb. The result should look like a miniature hot dog bun.
In boiling salted water, cook cavatelli, stirring once or twice as soon as you put them in, for about 5 minutes or until they rise to the top. Alternately, put them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store in the freezer in a plastic bag. Dumplings will take about 10 to 12 minutes to cook. Top with tomato sauce, pesto or butter and Parmesan.
KEY LIME PIE
This recipe, also from the February 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 52, begins, “The secret to this pie is cream of coconut, most commonly used by bartenders to make piña coladas. Don't confuse it with coconut milk, which is unsweetened and thinner. Chill well before serving.” Serves 10.
To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/key-lime-pie-2/.
Crust
1 1/2 cups crushed vegan graham crackers, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup nonhydrogenated vegan margarine, melted
1/4 cup agave nectar
Filling
1 cup cream of coconut, such as Coco Lopez
1 cup raw, unsalted cashews
7 oz. extra-firm tofu (half pkg.), drained
3/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup plus 1 Tbs. agave nectar
2 tsp. grated lime zest
Lime slices, for garnish
To make Crust:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Stir together crushed graham crackers, margarine, and agave nectar in bowl. Press mixture into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie dish using fingers or bottom of drinking glass. Place Crust in freezer while oven preheats.
Bake Crust 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden. Cool.
To make Filling:
Place cream of coconut, cashews, tofu, lime juice, cornstarch, agave nectar, and lime zest in blender or food processor; blend until very smooth (press mixture through strainer if blender cannot completely blend cashews).
Transfer Filling to saucepan, and heat over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, or until Filling thickens, stirring constantly.
Spread Filling in Crust. Chill at least 4 hours before serving. Serve garnished with lime slices and crushed graham crackers.
nutritional information Per Slice: Calories: 364; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 49 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 138 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 35 g; Vegan
VEGETARIAN CHILI
This comes from Ken Stross in Runner’s World. It begins, “Bursting with protein and fiber, this chili makes a hearty dinner. Serve with brown rice and a green salad.” Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
To view this online, go to http://www.runnersworld.com/recipes/vegetarian-chili.
Ingredients
4 ribs celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 large onions, chopped
2 large green bell peppers, chopped
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 cups frozen whole kernel corn
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles
1 cup salsa
1 cup low-sodium tomato or vegetable juice
1 1/2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground smoked paprika
Directions
Combine the celery, garlic, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, beans, chickpeas, corn, chiles, salsa, juice, broth, cumin, chili powder, and paprika in a large stockpot.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
CHERRY TOMATO SPAGHETTI
This comes from Giada De Laurentiis, and begins, “Quick-and-easy spaghetti topped with a sauce of cherry tomatoes, basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.”
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Serving Size: Serves 4-6
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound dried spaghetti pasta
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 shallot, minced
2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
2 pints red cherry tomatoes
1 pint small yellow tomatoes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup thinly sliced basil
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt generously. Cook the spaghetti to al dente and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the shallot and garlic, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes and salt and reduce the heat to medium low. Simmer the mixture until the tomatoes are slightly popped, 15 to 20 minutes.
Add the pasta, Parmesan, pasta water, and basil and toss thoroughly with tongs. Serve warm or at room temperature.
PORTOBELLO LASAGNA ROLLUPS
This comes from Ellie Krieger of The Food Network’s Healthy Appetite with Ellie Krieger. This begins, “Part-skim ricotta and mozzarella keep the fat count low in these cheesy roll-ups, while a little bold-flavored Parmesan goes a long way flavor-wise.”
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ellie-krieger/portobello-lasagna-rollups-recipe.html?oc=linkback
Total Time: 1 hr 30 min; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 1 hr 10 min; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
12 whole wheat lasagna noodles (about 12 ounces)
2 teaspoons olive oil 12 ounces portobello mushrooms, chopped (about 3 medium)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
4 cups Easy Tomato Sauce, recipe follows, or store-bought marinara sauce
One 15-ounce container part-skim ricotta cheese
One 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Freshly ground black pepper
Pinch ground nutmeg
3 ounces grated part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 2/3 cup)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Easy Tomato Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Two 28-ounce cans whole tomatoes, drained, chopped
1 bay leaf
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Cook the noodles to al dente according to the directions on the package. Drain them well and spread them out onto aluminum foil or waxed paper to prevent them from sticking.
Heat the oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and all the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the tomato sauce and simmer for 2 minutes. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, spinach, egg, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, a few turns of pepper and nutmeg.
Spread 1 cup of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9- by 12-inch baking dish. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture onto a lasagna noodle. Top with about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mushroom mixture, roll the noodle and place it into the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles. Spread the remaining 1 1/2 cups sauce over the lasagna rolls. Top with the grated cheeses, cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 minutes more.
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes longer. Add the tomato paste, dried oregano, whole tomatoes and bay leaf, and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
SWEET POTATO-PECAN PIE
This recipe is from Publix. Servings: 12; Total Time: about 3 1/2 hours; Active Time: 20 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 large sweet potato
2 tablespoons + 3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, divided
1 tablespoon heavy cream
4 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
1 egg + 2 eggs, beaten
1 frozen deep-dish piecrust
3/4 cup dark corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup chopped pecans
Whipped topping, optional
Directions
Preheat oven to 325°F. Melt butter. Peel potato and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 2 cups). Place in microwave-safe bowl and cover; microwave on HIGH 7–8 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork. Mash with potato masher (or hand mixer).
Combine in medium bowl: potatoes, 1 tablespoon butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, cream, 2 teaspoons vanilla, and 1 egg; beat with hand mixer on medium speed until smooth. Spread over bottom of piecrust.
Combine in second bowl: remaining 2 tablespoons butter, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 eggs, corn syrup, salt, pecans, remaining 1/4 teaspoon pie spice, and remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla until thoroughly blended; pour over sweet potatoes. Bake 60–65 minutes or until center is set. Let stand 2 hours (or overnight), to cool. Serve with whipped topping.
POTATO CAVATELLI
This comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Kim wrote, “These are an easy, homey version of handmade pasta that freeze well. They are sturdier and more toothsome than gnocchi but have more character than dried cavatelli. It takes a little practice to get the flip of the indentation just right, but once you get the feel for it you can turn out enough for dinner quickly. They hold up well under a heavy tomato ragù, but also take well to a simple sauce of butter, a little pasta water and Parmesan or pecorino. This recipe is easy to double, too, which leaves plenty to freeze for another night. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet dusted in flour, then store in a zippered plastic bag.” Time: 45 minutes; makes 6 servings as a first course, 4 as a main course.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 large russet potatoes
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup neutral oil, like canola
1 teaspoon kosher salt
4 eggs
3 cups flour/450 grams, plus more for rolling
Preparation
Boil potatoes unpeeled and send through a ricer to make 2 cups. Alternately, peel and boil, then mash. Mix in butter and milk. Let cool.
In a sturdy bowl, using a stand mixer with a dough hook, or a wooden spoon or your hands, mix potatoes, oil, salt and eggs until smooth. Work in 2 cups flour, gradually adding more until dough is stiff and not sticky. (The amount of flour needed can vary greatly.)
Pinch off a ball of dough, roll into a rope about an inch in diameter and cut into 3/4-inch dumplings. On a floured surface, press your thumb against the cut side of each dumpling and press down and away, so the dough flattens and flips up over your thumb. The result should look like a miniature hot dog bun.
In boiling salted water, cook cavatelli, stirring once or twice as soon as you put them in, for about 5 minutes or until they rise to the top. Alternately, put them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store in the freezer in a plastic bag. Dumplings will take about 10 to 12 minutes to cook. Top with tomato sauce, pesto or butter and Parmesan.
KEY LIME PIE
This recipe, also from the February 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 52, begins, “The secret to this pie is cream of coconut, most commonly used by bartenders to make piña coladas. Don't confuse it with coconut milk, which is unsweetened and thinner. Chill well before serving.” Serves 10.
To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/key-lime-pie-2/.
Crust
1 1/2 cups crushed vegan graham crackers, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup nonhydrogenated vegan margarine, melted
1/4 cup agave nectar
Filling
1 cup cream of coconut, such as Coco Lopez
1 cup raw, unsalted cashews
7 oz. extra-firm tofu (half pkg.), drained
3/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup plus 1 Tbs. agave nectar
2 tsp. grated lime zest
Lime slices, for garnish
To make Crust:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Stir together crushed graham crackers, margarine, and agave nectar in bowl. Press mixture into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie dish using fingers or bottom of drinking glass. Place Crust in freezer while oven preheats.
Bake Crust 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden. Cool.
To make Filling:
Place cream of coconut, cashews, tofu, lime juice, cornstarch, agave nectar, and lime zest in blender or food processor; blend until very smooth (press mixture through strainer if blender cannot completely blend cashews).
Transfer Filling to saucepan, and heat over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, or until Filling thickens, stirring constantly.
Spread Filling in Crust. Chill at least 4 hours before serving. Serve garnished with lime slices and crushed graham crackers.
nutritional information Per Slice: Calories: 364; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 49 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 138 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 35 g; Vegan
Thursday, April 19, 2018
Thursday Recipes
Here are today's six recipes to help you through the day, including Vegan Chili and Baked Arancini With Peppery Tomato Sauce. Enjoy!
COCONUT RICE
This is from Tejal Rao in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Coconut milk lends rice both fat and sweetness, making it a richer, more mellow side than plain rice. To make it, simply replace half of the cooking water with coconut milk. It becomes a meal if you serve it with a fried egg, finely sliced pickled chiles with a little of their pickling liquid and some crushed peanuts. And if you wanted to turn it into dessert, serving it with ripe fruit like cut mango on top, you could stick to the recipe below, but bump the sugar up to 2 tablespoons.”
Yield: 3 to 4 servings; Time: 35 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
LEARN: How to Make Rice
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice, such as jasmine
3/4 cup coconut milk
1 scant tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3/4 cup water
Preparation
Rinse the rice a few times, until the water that drains away runs almost completely clear.
Put in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with coconut milk, water, sugar and salt. When the liquid comes up to a boil, give it a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and turn the heat down to low.
Cook for 15 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. Mix gently with a flexible rubber spatula. Taste, season with salt and serve.
STUFFED SHELLS I
This is from SallyJun at AllRecipes. SallyJun wrote, "Jumbo macaroni shells stuffed with cheese mixture, covered with sauce, and baked."
Prep: 25 m; Cook: 25 m; Ready In: 50 m
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells
4 cups large curd cottage cheese
12 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 pinch garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 (26 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Cook shells according to package directions. Place in cold water to stop cooking. Drain.
Mix together cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, eggs, and garlic powder. Rub the dried herbs in the palms of your hands to pulverize them, and stir into the cheese mixture. Stuff mixture into the shells.
Spread 1/3 of spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 15 x 10 inch pan. Place shells open side up, and close together in pan. Spread remaining sauce over top, and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
VEGAN CHILI
This yummy recipe is from Lena Abraham on Delish. The recipe begins with the words, “Hearty and healthy.” Works for me!
Yields: 6; Prep Times: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tbsp. olive oil
2 bell peppers, diced
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 (12-oz) bottle Mexican beer such as Modelo
1 large sweet potato, cut into 1/2" cubes
1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (28-oz) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
2 c. vegetable broth
For Topping
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges
thinly sliced scallions
Directions
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add peppers, onions and celery and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and oregano and sauté until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.
Add beer and cook until it has reduced by half, about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add sweet potato, black and pinto beans, tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced and sweet potatoes are cooked through, 30 to 35 minutes.
Serve with the toppings of your choice.
VEGETARIAN CHILI WITH WINTER VEGETABLES
This comes from Martha Rose Shulman, also from The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Martha wrote, “I have made several versions of vegetarian chili; in some the beans take center stage, others are just as focused on vegetables. This thick, satisfying chili is equally focused on both. I particularly like the way the sweet flavor and comforting, creamy texture of the winter squash plays against the spicy flavors in the chili.” Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Serves 6 to 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 recipe simmered pintos (follows)
2 tablespoons grapeseed, sunflower or canola oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 large or 2 medium carrots, cut in small dice
1 red pepper, diced (optional)
2 large garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons mild ground chili (or use hot, or use more)
1 tablespoon lightly toasted cumin seeds, ground
1 28-ounce can chopped tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano, preferably Mexican oregano
2 tablespoons tomato paste dissolved in 1 cup water
2 cups diced winter squash (about 3/4 pound)
Salt to taste
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Grated cheddar or Monterey Jack, or crumbled queso fresco for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Heat the beans on top of the stove in a large soup pot or Dutch oven.
Heat the oil over medium heat in a heavy nonstick skillet and add the onion, carrot and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are tender and beginning to color, about 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic, stir together until fragrant, 30 seconds to a minute, and add the ground chili and cumin. Cook, stirring, for 2 to 3 minutes, until the mixture begins to stick to the pan. Add the tomatoes and oregano, and salt to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring often, until the tomatoes have cooked down and the mixture is beginning to stick to the pan, about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste dissolved in water and bring back to a simmer. Season with salt to taste and simmer, stirring often, for 10 minutes, until the mixture is thick and fragrant.
Stir the tomato mixture into the beans. Add the winter squash and bring to a simmer. Simmer, stirring often, for 30 to 45 minutes. It is important to stir often so that the chili doesn’t settle and stick to the bottom of the pot. It should be thick; if you desire you can thin out with water. Taste and adjust salt.
Shortly before serving stir in the cilantro and simmer for 5 minutes. Spoon into bowls. If you wish, top with grated cheddar, Monterey jack, or crumbled queso fresco.
Tip: Advance preparation: The simmered beans can be made 3 or 4 days ahead and the chili will keep for 3 or 4 days in the refrigerator. You will probably want to thin it out with water is it will continue to thicken. It freezes well.
A BIG POT OF SIMMERED PINTOS
This also comes from Martha Rose Shulman of The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. For this one, Martha wrote, “This pot of beans was Step 1 for the other Recipes for Health...If I know that I’m going to use these beans for a Mexican dinner I season them with cilantro and, if I can find it, epazote. If I want Italian or Provençal flavors I make a bouquet garni with bay leaf, thyme, parsley, maybe sage, and most definitely a Parmesan rind. This week, since I am using my beans as a starting off point for other dishes, I season them only with onion, garlic, bay leaf and salt. The dishes that will follow throughout the week will introduce more flavors.” Serves 6.
To view this online, go to http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1016030-a-big-pot-of-simmered-pintos.
Ingredients
1 pound (about 2 1/4 cups) pinto beans, washed and picked over for stones, soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight in 2 quarts water
1 medium onion, cut in half
2 to 4 large garlic cloves (to taste), minced
1 bay leaf
Salt to taste (I think beans need a lot, at least 1 teaspoon per quart of water used)
Preparation
Place beans and soaking water in a large, heavy pot. Add halved onion and bring to a gentle boil. Skim off any foam that rises, then add garlic and bay leaf, reduce heat, cover and simmer 30 minutes.
Add salt and continue to simmer another 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until beans are quite soft and broth is thick and fragrant. Taste and adjust salt. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove and discard onion and bay leaf. For the best flavor refrigerate overnight.
Tip: Advance preparation: The cooked beans will keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator and freeze well.
BAKED ARANCINI WITH PEPPERY TOMATO SAUCE
This is from Michelle Stark of the Tampa Bay Times. Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
For the sauce:
1 red bell pepper
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
2 garlic cloves
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Handful of fresh basil, chopped
For the arancini:
1 to 2 cups panko bread crumbs
Salt, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
2 to 3 cups cooked and chilled risotto
1 egg
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Make the sauce: Cut the top off the red bell pepper, then halve it lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and ribs and cut into quarters. Place on a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with olive oil, making sure the pepper pieces are coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place in oven on the top rack and broil until pepper is very brown and charred. Keep an eye on it. When pepper pieces are mostly charred, remove from oven. Carefully remove any very charred skin and chop the rest of the pepper very finely. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add garlic and a swirl of olive oil. Cook for 5 minutes until garlic is lightly browned, then add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper and stir. Lower to a simmer and add red pepper flakes and basil. Taste it and adjust seasonings if desired. Simmer for 15 minutes while you prepare arancini.
Make the arancini: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread bread crumbs out on the parchment paper, spray with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt and garlic powder. Cook for 5 minutes, until crumbs are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, place cooked risotto in a large bowl, then add egg, yogurt, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Start adding flour 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing in between each addition. About 4 tablespoons in, try to form a ball about the size of a golf ball with the risotto. If mixture is too sticky or not holding together, add the rest of the flour. If ball holds together, you’re good to go.
Prepare another baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and coating with cooking spray. Gently roll risotto mixture into balls; you’ll likely get between 20 to 25. Place on balls on prepared baking sheet.
Carefully roll balls, one at a time, in bread crumbs on other baking sheet until each ball is coated entirely with crumbs.
Place arancini back on risotto baking sheet and spray generously with cooking spray. Season with salt and pepper and bake for about 25 minutes until brown. If you want them even browner, broil for about 5 minutes, watching them to make sure they don’t burn.
Serve hot with sauce on the side and more Parmesan cheese and parsley to garnish.
COCONUT RICE
This is from Tejal Rao in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Coconut milk lends rice both fat and sweetness, making it a richer, more mellow side than plain rice. To make it, simply replace half of the cooking water with coconut milk. It becomes a meal if you serve it with a fried egg, finely sliced pickled chiles with a little of their pickling liquid and some crushed peanuts. And if you wanted to turn it into dessert, serving it with ripe fruit like cut mango on top, you could stick to the recipe below, but bump the sugar up to 2 tablespoons.”
Yield: 3 to 4 servings; Time: 35 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
LEARN: How to Make Rice
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice, such as jasmine
3/4 cup coconut milk
1 scant tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3/4 cup water
Preparation
Rinse the rice a few times, until the water that drains away runs almost completely clear.
Put in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with coconut milk, water, sugar and salt. When the liquid comes up to a boil, give it a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and turn the heat down to low.
Cook for 15 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. Mix gently with a flexible rubber spatula. Taste, season with salt and serve.
STUFFED SHELLS I
This is from SallyJun at AllRecipes. SallyJun wrote, "Jumbo macaroni shells stuffed with cheese mixture, covered with sauce, and baked."
Prep: 25 m; Cook: 25 m; Ready In: 50 m
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells
4 cups large curd cottage cheese
12 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 pinch garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 (26 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Cook shells according to package directions. Place in cold water to stop cooking. Drain.
Mix together cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, eggs, and garlic powder. Rub the dried herbs in the palms of your hands to pulverize them, and stir into the cheese mixture. Stuff mixture into the shells.
Spread 1/3 of spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 15 x 10 inch pan. Place shells open side up, and close together in pan. Spread remaining sauce over top, and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
VEGAN CHILI
This yummy recipe is from Lena Abraham on Delish. The recipe begins with the words, “Hearty and healthy.” Works for me!
Yields: 6; Prep Times: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tbsp. olive oil
2 bell peppers, diced
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 (12-oz) bottle Mexican beer such as Modelo
1 large sweet potato, cut into 1/2" cubes
1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (28-oz) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
2 c. vegetable broth
For Topping
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges
thinly sliced scallions
Directions
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add peppers, onions and celery and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and oregano and sauté until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.
Add beer and cook until it has reduced by half, about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add sweet potato, black and pinto beans, tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced and sweet potatoes are cooked through, 30 to 35 minutes.
Serve with the toppings of your choice.
VEGETARIAN CHILI WITH WINTER VEGETABLES
This comes from Martha Rose Shulman, also from The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Martha wrote, “I have made several versions of vegetarian chili; in some the beans take center stage, others are just as focused on vegetables. This thick, satisfying chili is equally focused on both. I particularly like the way the sweet flavor and comforting, creamy texture of the winter squash plays against the spicy flavors in the chili.” Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Serves 6 to 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 recipe simmered pintos (follows)
2 tablespoons grapeseed, sunflower or canola oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 large or 2 medium carrots, cut in small dice
1 red pepper, diced (optional)
2 large garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons mild ground chili (or use hot, or use more)
1 tablespoon lightly toasted cumin seeds, ground
1 28-ounce can chopped tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano, preferably Mexican oregano
2 tablespoons tomato paste dissolved in 1 cup water
2 cups diced winter squash (about 3/4 pound)
Salt to taste
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Grated cheddar or Monterey Jack, or crumbled queso fresco for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Heat the beans on top of the stove in a large soup pot or Dutch oven.
Heat the oil over medium heat in a heavy nonstick skillet and add the onion, carrot and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are tender and beginning to color, about 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic, stir together until fragrant, 30 seconds to a minute, and add the ground chili and cumin. Cook, stirring, for 2 to 3 minutes, until the mixture begins to stick to the pan. Add the tomatoes and oregano, and salt to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring often, until the tomatoes have cooked down and the mixture is beginning to stick to the pan, about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste dissolved in water and bring back to a simmer. Season with salt to taste and simmer, stirring often, for 10 minutes, until the mixture is thick and fragrant.
Stir the tomato mixture into the beans. Add the winter squash and bring to a simmer. Simmer, stirring often, for 30 to 45 minutes. It is important to stir often so that the chili doesn’t settle and stick to the bottom of the pot. It should be thick; if you desire you can thin out with water. Taste and adjust salt.
Shortly before serving stir in the cilantro and simmer for 5 minutes. Spoon into bowls. If you wish, top with grated cheddar, Monterey jack, or crumbled queso fresco.
Tip: Advance preparation: The simmered beans can be made 3 or 4 days ahead and the chili will keep for 3 or 4 days in the refrigerator. You will probably want to thin it out with water is it will continue to thicken. It freezes well.
A BIG POT OF SIMMERED PINTOS
This also comes from Martha Rose Shulman of The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. For this one, Martha wrote, “This pot of beans was Step 1 for the other Recipes for Health...If I know that I’m going to use these beans for a Mexican dinner I season them with cilantro and, if I can find it, epazote. If I want Italian or Provençal flavors I make a bouquet garni with bay leaf, thyme, parsley, maybe sage, and most definitely a Parmesan rind. This week, since I am using my beans as a starting off point for other dishes, I season them only with onion, garlic, bay leaf and salt. The dishes that will follow throughout the week will introduce more flavors.” Serves 6.
To view this online, go to http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1016030-a-big-pot-of-simmered-pintos.
Ingredients
1 pound (about 2 1/4 cups) pinto beans, washed and picked over for stones, soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight in 2 quarts water
1 medium onion, cut in half
2 to 4 large garlic cloves (to taste), minced
1 bay leaf
Salt to taste (I think beans need a lot, at least 1 teaspoon per quart of water used)
Preparation
Place beans and soaking water in a large, heavy pot. Add halved onion and bring to a gentle boil. Skim off any foam that rises, then add garlic and bay leaf, reduce heat, cover and simmer 30 minutes.
Add salt and continue to simmer another 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until beans are quite soft and broth is thick and fragrant. Taste and adjust salt. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove and discard onion and bay leaf. For the best flavor refrigerate overnight.
Tip: Advance preparation: The cooked beans will keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator and freeze well.
BAKED ARANCINI WITH PEPPERY TOMATO SAUCE
This is from Michelle Stark of the Tampa Bay Times. Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
For the sauce:
1 red bell pepper
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
2 garlic cloves
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Handful of fresh basil, chopped
For the arancini:
1 to 2 cups panko bread crumbs
Salt, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
2 to 3 cups cooked and chilled risotto
1 egg
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Make the sauce: Cut the top off the red bell pepper, then halve it lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and ribs and cut into quarters. Place on a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with olive oil, making sure the pepper pieces are coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place in oven on the top rack and broil until pepper is very brown and charred. Keep an eye on it. When pepper pieces are mostly charred, remove from oven. Carefully remove any very charred skin and chop the rest of the pepper very finely. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add garlic and a swirl of olive oil. Cook for 5 minutes until garlic is lightly browned, then add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper and stir. Lower to a simmer and add red pepper flakes and basil. Taste it and adjust seasonings if desired. Simmer for 15 minutes while you prepare arancini.
Make the arancini: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread bread crumbs out on the parchment paper, spray with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt and garlic powder. Cook for 5 minutes, until crumbs are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, place cooked risotto in a large bowl, then add egg, yogurt, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Start adding flour 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing in between each addition. About 4 tablespoons in, try to form a ball about the size of a golf ball with the risotto. If mixture is too sticky or not holding together, add the rest of the flour. If ball holds together, you’re good to go.
Prepare another baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and coating with cooking spray. Gently roll risotto mixture into balls; you’ll likely get between 20 to 25. Place on balls on prepared baking sheet.
Carefully roll balls, one at a time, in bread crumbs on other baking sheet until each ball is coated entirely with crumbs.
Place arancini back on risotto baking sheet and spray generously with cooking spray. Season with salt and pepper and bake for about 25 minutes until brown. If you want them even browner, broil for about 5 minutes, watching them to make sure they don’t burn.
Serve hot with sauce on the side and more Parmesan cheese and parsley to garnish.
Wednesday, April 18, 2018
Desserts!
Is there anyone who hasn't occasionally wanted something a little snacky? Today's yummy post is for those who want that snakiness in the form of desserts. Today's six recipes include Dulce de Leche Banana Pie and Banana Rum Vegan Cheesecake with Maple Rum Sauce. Enjoy!
MAYAN SPICED CHOCOLATE PUDDING
This is from the April 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “We've provided instructions for having this pudding ready to eat in 30 minutes, but you could also just chill with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
1 13.5-oz. can light coconut milk, divided
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. chili powder, plus more for garnish
1/8 tsp. salt
1 3-oz. bar vegan dark chocolate, chopped
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Whisk together 1/4 cup coconut milk and cornstarch in small bowl. Set aside.
Combine remaining coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon, chili powder, and salt in saucepan, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Whisk 1/4 cup hot mixture into cornstarch mixture to form slurry.
Whisk slurry into hot mixture, and cook 3 minutes, or until thickened, whisking constantly. Remove from heat, and whisk in chocolate and vanilla.
Transfer to metal bowl, and set in larger bowl filled with ice and water. Whisk occasionally to cool. Serve sprinkled with pinch of chili powder.
nutritional information Per 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 285; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 18 g; Saturated Fat: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 95 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 16 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
CRANBERRY PIE
My dad loved to cook, and usually came up with decent recipes. He sent this one 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.”
This pie can be made either with a single crust (above photo) or with a top and bottom crust (below). If making this with a top crust, poke several holes through the top crust to vent, then covering with foil for the first 10-15 minutes, then taking the foil off for the last 10-15 minutes. (If using only a bottom crust, foil around the edges where the crust shows would be preferable, again for the first 10-15 minutes.)
This recipe can be found in my e-cookbook Off the Wall Cooking.
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.
BANANA RUM VEGAN CHEESECAKE WITH MAPLE RUM SAUCE
This is from Jolinda Hackett, the Spruce's vegetarian blogger. Jolinda wrote, “This gourmet banana rum vegan cheesecake with maple rum sauce has several steps, but the bananas, pecan crust and rum sauce can all be prepared in advance. Then, the only thing left is to blend the vegan cream cheese and the other ingredients and bake. Easy! If you're looking for a gourmet vegan cheesecake recipe, this is the one to try.”
Ingredients
4 very ripe bananas
16 ounces nondairy cream cheese
3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup dark rum
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
Prepared pecan pie crust (recipe follows)
Prepared maple rum sauce (recipe follows)
Toasted pecan halves for garnish
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.Place 4 large, very ripe, unpeeled bananas on a roasting pan and roast for 15-20 minutes, until bananas are soft and skin turns dark brown. Let bananas cool to room temperature in the pan in their skins.
Turn oven up to 400 degrees.
Peel the roasted bananas and remove any obvious strings. Puree bananas in a food processor until very smooth. Add nondairy cream cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, rum, cornstarch and salt then pulse until smooth, scraping sides of bowl periodically. Do not overprocess or cream cheese will separate and curdle.
Pour the filling into the prepared pecan pie crust and bake at 400 for 10 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350 and bake another 35-45 minutes, until the top is the color of light brown sugar and center is set. A toothpick inserted in center should come out clean.
Let cheesecake cool to room temperature on a rack for at least 1 hour, then cover with plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
Drizzle with prepared maple rum sauce just before serving and garnish with extra toasted pecan halves.
PECAN PIE CRUST
Jolinda Hackett's pecan pie crust can be used for either cheesecake or as a regular pie crust, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 cup pecan nut flour (see instructions below)
1/2 cup spelt flour (white or whole wheat )
1 tablespoon firmly packed light brown sugar
4 Tbsp vegan margarine, partially melted
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of sea salt
Preparation
Note: To make pecan nut flour, freeze the nuts overnight, then place in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Freezing the nuts prevents them from turning into nut butter when you process them.pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined and incorporated.
Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan and put in freezer for 5 minutes.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until crust is a little dry and edges are light golden. Let cool completely before using in a recipe.
VEGAN MAPLE RUM SAUCE RECIPE
Jolinda wrote, “Use this vegan maple rum sauce recipe to drizzle on top of a banana rum cheesecake or on top of ice cream or chocolate brownies.Yum!” To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup real maple syrup (grade B organic is best in this recipe)
4 tablespoons Earth Balance vegan butter
Sea salt
1 tablespoon dark rum
Preparation
In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, vegan butter, and sea salt to taste and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce has thickened slightly, about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in rum, stirring carefully, as sauce will bubble up a bit. Let cool for a few minutes then taste and add more salt if necessary.
Cool to room temperature, then transfer to a squeeze bottle.If not using immediately, the sauce can be rewarmed by putting the bottle in a pan of hot water off the heat.
DULCE DE LECHE BANANA PIE
This yummy recipe, from Old El Paso, begins, “A flaky homemade pie crust complements a caramel and banana cream filling.”
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; 8 Servings; 10 Ingredients
To view this yumminess, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/dulce-de-leche-banana-pie.
Ingredients
Crust
1 cup Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon shortening
2 to 3 tablespoons cold water
Filling
1 can (13.4 oz) dulce de leche
3 ripe medium bananas
1 cup whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Instructions
Heat oven to 450°F. In medium bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in shortening, using pastry blender (or pulling 2 table knives through ingredients in opposite directions), until particles are size of small peas. Sprinkle with water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing with fork until all flour is moistened and dough almost leaves side of bowl (1 to 2 teaspoons more water can be added if necessary).
On lightly floured surface, shape dough into a ball. Flatten ball to 1/2-inch thickness, rounding and smoothing edges. With floured rolling pin, roll dough into 11-inch round, rolling from center to edge. Fold dough in half; place in 9-inch glass pie plate. Unfold; gently press in bottom and up side of plate, being careful not to stretch dough.
Fold and roll edge of dough under, even with plate; flute edge. Prick bottom and side of dough generously with fork. Bake 9 to 12 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Spoon contents of can of dulce de leche into center of cooled crust; gently spread to edge. Thinly slice bananas; arrange over dulce de leche.
In medium bowl, beat whipping cream and powdered sugar with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Spread over bananas.
In small resealable freezer plastic bag, place chocolate chips and oil; seal bag. Microwave on High 30 seconds; knead bag to mix melted chips and unmelted chips. Microwave 15 to 30 seconds longer or until all chips are melted and smooth. Snip off tiny corner of bag. Pipe melted chocolate mixture over whipped cream. Store pie in refrigerator.
Expert Tips
Dulce de leche is a traditional Spanish confection made from milk. It's a popular culinary reference to rich caramel flavors. Look for canned dulce de leche in the Hispanic section of the supermarket.
CARROT CAKE
This comes from Alton Brown of the Food Network show Good Eats.
Total:2 hr 50 min; Prep: 40 min; Inactive: 1 hr; Cook: 1 hr 10 min; Yield: 1 (9-inch) cake; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Unsalted butter, for the pan
12 ounces, approximately 2 1/2 cups, all-purpose flour, plus extra for pan
12 ounces grated carrots, medium grate, approximately 6 medium
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
10 ounces sugar, approximately 1 1/3 cups
2 ounces dark brown sugar, approximately 1/4 cup firmly packed
3 large eggs
6 ounces plain yogurt
6 ounces vegetable oil
Cream Cheese Frosting, recipe follows
Directions
Watch how to make this recipe.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Butter and flour a 9-inch round and 3-inch deep cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper. Set aside.
Put the carrots into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Put the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt in the bowl of a food processor and process for 5 seconds. Add this mixture to the carrots and toss until they are well-coated with the flour.
In the bowl of the food processor combine the sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and yogurt.
With the processor still running drizzle in the vegetable oil. Pour this mixture into the carrot mixture and stir until just combined. Pour into the prepared cake pan and bake on the middle rack of the oven for 45 minutes. Reduce the heat to 325 degrees F and bake for another 20 minutes or until the cake reaches 205 to 210 degrees F in the center.
Remove the pan from the oven and allow cake to cool 15 minutes in the pan. After 15 minutes, turn the cake out onto a rack and allow cake to cool completely. Frost with cream cheese frosting after cake has cooled completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese
2 ounces unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
9 ounces powdered sugar, sifted, approximately 2 cups
In the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese and butter on medium just until blended. Add the vanilla and beat until combined. With the speed on low, add the powdered sugar in 4 batches and beat until smooth between each addition.
Place the frosting in the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes before using.
Yield: approximately 2 cups
MAYAN SPICED CHOCOLATE PUDDING
This is from the April 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “We've provided instructions for having this pudding ready to eat in 30 minutes, but you could also just chill with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
1 13.5-oz. can light coconut milk, divided
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. chili powder, plus more for garnish
1/8 tsp. salt
1 3-oz. bar vegan dark chocolate, chopped
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Whisk together 1/4 cup coconut milk and cornstarch in small bowl. Set aside.
Combine remaining coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon, chili powder, and salt in saucepan, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Whisk 1/4 cup hot mixture into cornstarch mixture to form slurry.
Whisk slurry into hot mixture, and cook 3 minutes, or until thickened, whisking constantly. Remove from heat, and whisk in chocolate and vanilla.
Transfer to metal bowl, and set in larger bowl filled with ice and water. Whisk occasionally to cool. Serve sprinkled with pinch of chili powder.
nutritional information Per 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 285; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 18 g; Saturated Fat: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 95 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 16 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
CRANBERRY PIE
My dad loved to cook, and usually came up with decent recipes. He sent this one 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.”
This pie can be made either with a single crust (above photo) or with a top and bottom crust (below). If making this with a top crust, poke several holes through the top crust to vent, then covering with foil for the first 10-15 minutes, then taking the foil off for the last 10-15 minutes. (If using only a bottom crust, foil around the edges where the crust shows would be preferable, again for the first 10-15 minutes.)
This recipe can be found in my e-cookbook Off the Wall Cooking.
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.
BANANA RUM VEGAN CHEESECAKE WITH MAPLE RUM SAUCE
This is from Jolinda Hackett, the Spruce's vegetarian blogger. Jolinda wrote, “This gourmet banana rum vegan cheesecake with maple rum sauce has several steps, but the bananas, pecan crust and rum sauce can all be prepared in advance. Then, the only thing left is to blend the vegan cream cheese and the other ingredients and bake. Easy! If you're looking for a gourmet vegan cheesecake recipe, this is the one to try.”
Ingredients
4 very ripe bananas
16 ounces nondairy cream cheese
3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup dark rum
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
Prepared pecan pie crust (recipe follows)
Prepared maple rum sauce (recipe follows)
Toasted pecan halves for garnish
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.Place 4 large, very ripe, unpeeled bananas on a roasting pan and roast for 15-20 minutes, until bananas are soft and skin turns dark brown. Let bananas cool to room temperature in the pan in their skins.
Turn oven up to 400 degrees.
Peel the roasted bananas and remove any obvious strings. Puree bananas in a food processor until very smooth. Add nondairy cream cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, rum, cornstarch and salt then pulse until smooth, scraping sides of bowl periodically. Do not overprocess or cream cheese will separate and curdle.
Pour the filling into the prepared pecan pie crust and bake at 400 for 10 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350 and bake another 35-45 minutes, until the top is the color of light brown sugar and center is set. A toothpick inserted in center should come out clean.
Let cheesecake cool to room temperature on a rack for at least 1 hour, then cover with plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
Drizzle with prepared maple rum sauce just before serving and garnish with extra toasted pecan halves.
PECAN PIE CRUST
Jolinda Hackett's pecan pie crust can be used for either cheesecake or as a regular pie crust, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 cup pecan nut flour (see instructions below)
1/2 cup spelt flour (white or whole wheat )
1 tablespoon firmly packed light brown sugar
4 Tbsp vegan margarine, partially melted
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of sea salt
Preparation
Note: To make pecan nut flour, freeze the nuts overnight, then place in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Freezing the nuts prevents them from turning into nut butter when you process them.pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined and incorporated.
Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan and put in freezer for 5 minutes.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until crust is a little dry and edges are light golden. Let cool completely before using in a recipe.
VEGAN MAPLE RUM SAUCE RECIPE
Jolinda wrote, “Use this vegan maple rum sauce recipe to drizzle on top of a banana rum cheesecake or on top of ice cream or chocolate brownies.Yum!” To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup real maple syrup (grade B organic is best in this recipe)
4 tablespoons Earth Balance vegan butter
Sea salt
1 tablespoon dark rum
Preparation
In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, vegan butter, and sea salt to taste and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce has thickened slightly, about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in rum, stirring carefully, as sauce will bubble up a bit. Let cool for a few minutes then taste and add more salt if necessary.
Cool to room temperature, then transfer to a squeeze bottle.If not using immediately, the sauce can be rewarmed by putting the bottle in a pan of hot water off the heat.
DULCE DE LECHE BANANA PIE
This yummy recipe, from Old El Paso, begins, “A flaky homemade pie crust complements a caramel and banana cream filling.”
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; 8 Servings; 10 Ingredients
To view this yumminess, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/dulce-de-leche-banana-pie.
Ingredients
Crust
1 cup Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon shortening
2 to 3 tablespoons cold water
Filling
1 can (13.4 oz) dulce de leche
3 ripe medium bananas
1 cup whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Instructions
Heat oven to 450°F. In medium bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in shortening, using pastry blender (or pulling 2 table knives through ingredients in opposite directions), until particles are size of small peas. Sprinkle with water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing with fork until all flour is moistened and dough almost leaves side of bowl (1 to 2 teaspoons more water can be added if necessary).
On lightly floured surface, shape dough into a ball. Flatten ball to 1/2-inch thickness, rounding and smoothing edges. With floured rolling pin, roll dough into 11-inch round, rolling from center to edge. Fold dough in half; place in 9-inch glass pie plate. Unfold; gently press in bottom and up side of plate, being careful not to stretch dough.
Fold and roll edge of dough under, even with plate; flute edge. Prick bottom and side of dough generously with fork. Bake 9 to 12 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Spoon contents of can of dulce de leche into center of cooled crust; gently spread to edge. Thinly slice bananas; arrange over dulce de leche.
In medium bowl, beat whipping cream and powdered sugar with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Spread over bananas.
In small resealable freezer plastic bag, place chocolate chips and oil; seal bag. Microwave on High 30 seconds; knead bag to mix melted chips and unmelted chips. Microwave 15 to 30 seconds longer or until all chips are melted and smooth. Snip off tiny corner of bag. Pipe melted chocolate mixture over whipped cream. Store pie in refrigerator.
Expert Tips
Dulce de leche is a traditional Spanish confection made from milk. It's a popular culinary reference to rich caramel flavors. Look for canned dulce de leche in the Hispanic section of the supermarket.
CARROT CAKE
This comes from Alton Brown of the Food Network show Good Eats.
Total:2 hr 50 min; Prep: 40 min; Inactive: 1 hr; Cook: 1 hr 10 min; Yield: 1 (9-inch) cake; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Unsalted butter, for the pan
12 ounces, approximately 2 1/2 cups, all-purpose flour, plus extra for pan
12 ounces grated carrots, medium grate, approximately 6 medium
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
10 ounces sugar, approximately 1 1/3 cups
2 ounces dark brown sugar, approximately 1/4 cup firmly packed
3 large eggs
6 ounces plain yogurt
6 ounces vegetable oil
Cream Cheese Frosting, recipe follows
Directions
Watch how to make this recipe.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Butter and flour a 9-inch round and 3-inch deep cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper. Set aside.
Put the carrots into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Put the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt in the bowl of a food processor and process for 5 seconds. Add this mixture to the carrots and toss until they are well-coated with the flour.
In the bowl of the food processor combine the sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and yogurt.
With the processor still running drizzle in the vegetable oil. Pour this mixture into the carrot mixture and stir until just combined. Pour into the prepared cake pan and bake on the middle rack of the oven for 45 minutes. Reduce the heat to 325 degrees F and bake for another 20 minutes or until the cake reaches 205 to 210 degrees F in the center.
Remove the pan from the oven and allow cake to cool 15 minutes in the pan. After 15 minutes, turn the cake out onto a rack and allow cake to cool completely. Frost with cream cheese frosting after cake has cooled completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese
2 ounces unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
9 ounces powdered sugar, sifted, approximately 2 cups
In the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese and butter on medium just until blended. Add the vanilla and beat until combined. With the speed on low, add the powdered sugar in 4 batches and beat until smooth between each addition.
Place the frosting in the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes before using.
Yield: approximately 2 cups
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