Buttery Porcini Mushroom Pasta

                                         

Buttery Porcini Mushroom Pasta 

Dried mushrooms and smoked paprika 

brings a rich earthiness a hit of flavor.

Ingredients:

20g / 1/4 cup Dried Porcini Mushrooms
25g / 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
250g /  chestnut mushrooms, sliced also called cinnamon cap.
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 tbsp double cream
200g / 8oz. fettuccine
20g / 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated, plus extra to serve
½ x 20g pack chives, finely chopped
smoked paprikaDirections:Put the porcini into a mug, pour over 150ml boiling water, then set aside for 25 minutes. Drain and reserve the liquid, leaving the sediment behind. Chop the mushrooms and set aside.

Melt the butter with the oil in a large frying pan over a high heat. Once foaming, add the chestnut mushrooms, season and fry for about 10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden. Stir in the garlic and soaked porcini, fry for about 3 minutes more, then add 4 tbsp soaking liquid and the cream. Bubble briefly, then remove from the heat.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to pack instructions. Reserve a cup of cooking water, then drain.

Tip the pasta into the sauce and toss to coat, then add the parmesan, most of the chives and a little pasta water, if needed, to loosen, so the sauce coats nicely. Serve topped with the remaining chives, some smoked paprika and extra cheese.

Cook’s tip
Soak the mushrooms earlier in the day if you have a busy evening coming up. Just keep in the fridge. until needed.

Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls With Mushrooms, Farro And Cauliflower Cream

Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls With 

Mushrooms, Farro And Cauliflower Cream

These vegetarian cabbage rolls are stuffed with an umami-rich filling of mushrooms, farro and Parmesan, and sauced with a dreamy purée of cauliflower. They are a labour of love and best tackled as a 2-day project with a dedicated sous-chef. To precook the cabbage, you will need a spider, which is an indispensable kitchen tool when blanching vegetables. If you don’t feel like buying a bottle of sherry to make this recipe, red or white wine are fine substitutes.   Serves 6 to 8 

Ingredients:

"Cauliflower Cream"
2 tbsp (30 mL) unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 large shallots, thinly sliced
4 cups (1 L) roughly chopped cauliflower
2 cups (500 mL) vegetable stock
Salt to taste

Cabbage Rolls 
1 cup (250 mL) farro, rinsed
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp (30 mL) canola oil, divided
1 1/4 lbs (565 g) cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced, divided
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 tbsp (22 mL) unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tsp (10 mL) finely chopped thyme
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup (125 mL) amontillado sherry
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup (125 mL) finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped flat-leaf parsley
1 large Savoy cabbage, about 4 lbs (1.81 kg)
Finely sliced chives for serving

Directions:
For the cauliflower “cream,” heat butter in a large saucepan over
medium heat. When bubbling, add garlic and shallots. Cook, stirring
occasionally, until softened, 4 to 5 minutes. (Reduce heat if it starts to
brown.) Add cauliflower, stock and salt. Cover and raise heat to high.
When it comes to a boil, reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.
Cook until very soft, 12 to 14 minutes.

Transfer contents of pot to a blender. Blend until smooth, scraping
down bowl if necessary. Taste and adjust salt. Transfer to an airtight
container and cool completely. Cover and refrigerate up to 5 days.
When ready to use, reheat in a medium-size saucepan over medium
until hot.

For the cabbage rolls, place farro and bay leaf in a medium-size pot. Add enough water to cover by 3 inches (8 cm). Place over high heat. When it comes to a boil, reduce heat to maintain a vigorous simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly al dente, 20 to 22 minutes. Drain and transfer to a baking sheet. Discard bay leaf and cool completely.

Heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium-
high. Add half of mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly
browned and tender, 7 to 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer to a second baking sheet. Repeat with remaining canola oil
and mushrooms and transfer to same tray.

When mushrooms are done, reduce heat to medium. Add butter to
pan and swirl around, then add onion. Cook, stirring occasionally,
until lightly golden, about 10 minutes. Add thyme and garlic. Cook 1
minute more. Add sherry and raise heat to medium-high. Cook until
moisture has evaporated, about 3 minutes. Spread onion mixture over
mushrooms on tray. Cool completely.

Transfer cooled mushroom mixture to a food processor. Pulse briefly, just until finely chopped. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and add farro, egg,  Parmigiano-Reggiano and parsley.  Season with salt and
pepper. Mix thoroughly. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use, up to 1 day.

Remove and discard any damaged outer leaves of cabbage. Carefully trim about 1/2 inch (1 cm) off the core. Working from tops, slowly and carefully peel off cabbage leaves, slicing core as necessary to make removal easy, until you have 20 leaves. Save rest of cabbage for another use.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Line three baking sheets
with paper towel or clean kitchen towels. Working in four batches,
boil cabbage leaves for 2 minutes, pushing them down with a spider to
keep them submerged. Transfer with spider to prepared sheets to drain,
Cool completely.

Using kitchen scissors, cut out thick portion of stems, going about
halfway up each leaf. Discard. Blot excess water with paper towel.

Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C).

Starting with outermost leaves, lay out a cabbage leaf, inner side up.
Place a little less than 1/2 cup (125 mL) mushroom filling just
above where stem was cut out. Fold the two bottom flaps in a crisscross over filling. Fold in sides then roll cabbage around filling. Place on a baking sheet. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling, gradually reducing filling amount as leaves get smaller—by the end, you’ll use about 1/4 cup (60 mL) filling per roll. Save smallest and any torn leaves to line pan.

Tear any remaining leaves and use them to line a large, shallow
rectangular roasting pan (they should fit in an 11 × 14–inch/28 ×
35–cm pan). Arrange cabbage rolls, seam side down, snuggly in pan.
Pour in 1 cup (250 mL) boiling water and cover tightly with foil. Bake
on middle rack until an instant-read thermometer inserted in centres
reads 165°F (74°C), 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from oven.

While cabbage rolls are in oven, reheat “cream” and keep hot over 
low heat. When cabbage rolls are ready, carefully transfer to a serving
platter. Serve with “cream” and chives on the side.  Serves 6 to 8

Ultimate Green Goddess

Ultimate Green Goddess 

This is the second posting this week for a week of salad dressings.  The recipes yields 3/4 cup.  

Ingredients:

1 ounce parsley, chopped 

2 tablespoon chopped dill

2 tablespoon chopped chives

Place herbs in a small food processor with

5 1/4 oz. plain yogurt

2 tablespoons nonpareille capers

Zest and juice of 1/2 unwaxed lemons

Whiz again and season to taste with salt.

Celery, Chicken, Chive & Bean Salad

Celery, Chicken, Chive & Bean Salad

For the longest time I didn’t think I liked bean salads, and then I tried one made with soft navy and edamame beans. Now I love them, and I think you’ll love this lemony, colourful version, too. The chicken breast is brined overnight, so begin a day ahead; otherwise it’s all very easy, super-satisfying stuff that can be eaten as a main. If you have chives growing in your yard, use the flowers as a tasty garnish.

Ingredients:

1½ cups (375 mL) buttermilk

½ white onion, thinly sliced

1 tsp (5 mL) celery salt

½ tsp (2 mL) coarsely ground black pepper

4 stalks celery, divided

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 1 lb. (500g) total weight

⅓ cup (80 mL) olive oil

¼ cup (60 mL) lemon juice

1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon zest

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

1 tsp (5 mL) salt

1 can (398 mL) navy beans, drained and rinsed

2 cups (500 mL) shelled soy beans (edamame), cooked according to package directions

½ cup (125 mL) finely chopped chives, about 1 bunch

Chive flowers to garnish (optional)

Directions:

In a medium resealable bag, combine buttermilk, onion, celery salt and pepper. Thinly slice 1 stalk of celery and add to bag along with chicken breasts. Seal and massage contents briefly to dissolve salt and coat chicken thoroughly. Refrigerate overnight.

Preheat barbecue to medium and oil grill. Remove chicken from brine, pat dry and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, until juices run clear or internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove to a board and let rest while preparing remaining ingredients.

In a large serving bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic and salt. Cut remaining 3 stalks of celery in half lengthwise and thinly slice on the bias; add to bowl along with navy and soy beans. Sprinkle chives over. Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces, add to salad and gently toss to combine.

If using chive flowers, separate individual flowers from 4 or 5 ball-shaped heads and sprinkle over salad before serving.  Serves 4

Tater Tot Cups With Smoked Salmon And Creme Fraiche

                                                     

Tater Tot Cups With Smoked Salmon And Crème Fraiche

The viral technique of turning tater tots into crispy potato cups is quite simple. Makes 24 hors d’oeuvre 

Ingredients and Directions;
Take a nonstick, metal, 24-cup mini-muffin pan and place 

three frozen tater tots in each mould—a 24 oz bag will be enough. They won’t fit neatly, but it doesn’t matter. Bake in a 400°F (204°C) oven until the tater tots are hot, 12 to 14 minutes. 

Remove the pan and place it on a dry kitchen towel on the counter. Using the back tip of a teaspoon, smush the tots into cup shapes to fill the moulds. 

To make an even better cavity, you can further smush them with the back of a melon baller, or your fingertip if they’re cool enough.

Return to oven and bake until brown and crispy, about 30 minutes more. Remove from oven and transfer cups from pan to a cooling rack set over a baking sheet. They can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.

When you’re ready to serve, pop them back into the oven just to warm them through.  Then fill each with a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream. 

Roll a strip of smoked salmon into a little rose (or don’t) and place in cups. Sprinkle with chives and serve immediately. 

Instead of smoked salmon, you could use salmon roe or lumpfish caviar. For a fully loaded version, use bacon bits and grated cheddar instead of salmon.
Makes 24 hors d’oeuvres

Root Vegetable And Apple Soup With Dungeness Crab and Brown Butter

 

Root Vegetable and Apple Soup with 

Dungeness Crab and Brown Butter

Nothing warms the soul more than a tasty bowl of soup topped with seafood.  This recipe is a winner, a real "dinner winner"!

Ingredients:

1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 turnip, peeled and diced
1 rutabaga, peeled and diced
1 yellow onion, peeled and diced
10 cloves garlic, chopped
8 ounces unsalted butter, divided, plus more for garnish
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
4 sprigs thyme
2 cups white wine
4 cups vegetable stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon salt
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bunch fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
2 steamed crabs or fresh Dungeness crab meat
Juice of 1 Meyer lemon
Directions: 

Cook the vegetables in 4 ounces of butter for 10 minutes in a Dutch oven. Add the apples and thyme and cook for another 10 minutes.
Deglaze the vegetables with wine and reduce the liquid for 5 minutes. 

Add the vegetable stock, heavy cream, maple syrup and salt and simmer very low for 2 hours.

Blend the soup on high until completely smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper.

Brown 4 ounces of butter in a sauté pan until the liquid turns golden brown. Add the crab meat and lemon juice and cook on high for 2 minutes.

Pour the warm soup into a bowl and top with the brown butter crab. Garnish with chives and extra brown butter.  Serves 4 to 6

Chive Blossom Salt

 

Chive Blossom Salt

This herb salt transforms spring’s first delicate herb shoots into the ultimate seasonal seasoning. Unlike dried herb mixes, this cooked salt creates a cohesive spring flavor where each ingredient shines yet blends harmoniously. Use it to sprinkle over spring favorites like morels, sweet peas, lamb, eggs and asparagus.

Note:  The chopping and prep of herbs is time consuming.

Ingredients:
½ cup chive blossom flowers
¼ cup finely chopped parsley leaves
¼ cup finely chopped mint leaves
¼ cup finely sliced chives
¼ cup finely chopped fennel fronds
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 teaspoons Aleppo or cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons mixed-color crushed peppercorns
1½ cups Maldon flake salt

Directions:

Preheat oven to 225°F.                                                                             

Combine herbs, zest, and spices in a medium bowl. Gently fold in salt until well mixed, using your fingers to incorporate thoroughly. 

Spread mixture evenly on two parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake 20–25 minutes, until herbs have lost most moisture but remain greenish. Let cool. 

Store in a covered container for several weeks. Makes about 2 cups.

Ricotta Meatballs With Arugula-Herb Salad

Ricotta Meatballs with Arugula‑Herb Salad

Adding ricotta to meatballs guarantees a moist, tender result. The herbed ricotta mixture is used in the meatballs and also as a condiment for the meatballs and vibrant green salad. Form the meatballs a day or two ahead of time and refrigerate in an airtight container for a quick dinner. Serves 4 (or 2 with leftovers)
Meatballs
1 1/4 cups (310 mL) full-fat traditional ricotta
1/2 cup (125 mL) grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
1/3 cup (80 mL) loosely packed parsley, finely chopped
1/3 cup (80 mL) finely chopped chives
1/3 cup (80 mL) loosely packed oregano leaves, finely chopped
2 tbsp (30 mL) finely grated lemon zest
1 tbsp (15 mL) fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp (2 mL) red pepper flakes
3 tbsp (45 mL) olive oil, divided
1 tbsp (15 mL) capers, drained, patted dry
2 tbsp (30 mL) fennel seeds
1 tsp (5 mL) freshly ground black pepper
Fine sea salt to taste
1 large egg
1 large shallot, finely grated
1 lb (455 g) lean ground beef
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) fine sea salt, divided
Salad
1/4 cup (60 mL) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
2 tbsp (30 mL) white wine vinegar
1/2 tsp (2 mL) Dijon mustard
Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 cups (500 mL) packed baby arugula
1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped chives
1/4 cup (60 mL) loosely packed mint leaves
1/4 cup (60 mL) loosely packed parsley leaves, coarsely chopped
Directions:
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice and red pepper flakes until well combined. Set aside.

In a small frying pan, heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil over medium-low heat. Add capers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly crispy, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a plate. Set aside.

Add fennel seeds and pepper to pan. Cook until lightly toasted, 1 to 2 minutes. Add to ricotta mixture. Finely chop capers and add to ricotta mixture. Season with 1 tsp (5 mL) salt and mix until combined. Transfer half to an airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Stir egg into remaining half of ricotta mixture. Add shallot, beef and remaining 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt. Mix until well combined. Roll into 1 1/4-inch (3-cm) balls and place on a parchment- lined baking sheet. You’ll have approx. 20 meatballs.

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).

Heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add half the meatballs. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown all over, 3 to 5 minutes. Return to baking sheet. Repeat with remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil and meatballs. Bake on lower rack, turning once, until cooked through, 10 to 15 minutes.

While meatballs are baking, whisk oil, vinegar, mustard, salt and pepper until combined.Combine arugula and herbs in a large bowl. Add enough dressing to coat lightly, saving rest for another use. Gently toss.

To serve, spoon and spread 1/3 cup (80 mL) of the reserved herbed ricotta on each plate. Top with some salad and 5 meatballs. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan.

Serves 4 (or 2 with leftovers)

Sour Cream And Chive Biscuits

 

Sour Cream and Chive Biscuits

These dreamy biscuits are all about technique. The dough will seem dry when you gather it together, but trust in the process. To make sure your butter is cold enough (and it should be cold!), move it from the fridge to the freezer for 10 minutes before cutting into chunks. If you get excited about seeing neat little layers in your biscuits, cut into rectangles with a very sharp, oiled chef’s knife. It probably goes without saying, but fresh warm biscuits are greater than ones even a few hours old.

Ingredients:

3 1/2 cups (875 mL) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
2 1/2 tsp (12 mL) Diamond Crystal kosher salt
3/4 tsp (4 mL) baking soda
2 tsp (10 mL) baking powder
1 tsp (5 mL) sugar
16 tbsp (2 sticks) cold, unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) pieces
1 3/4 cups + 1 tbsp (425 + 15 mL) sour cream, divided
1/2 cup (125 mL) finely sliced chives

Directions: 

Place rack in middle of oven and preheat to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Add flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder and sugar to a food processor and pulse to combine. Add butter and pulse until butter is in pea-size bits. Transfer to a large bowl. Add 1 3/4 cups (425 mL) sour cream and the chives. Mix with a fork to distribute evenly. Bring mixture together with your hands and knead a couple of times until a shaggy dough forms. Turn out onto a clean surface and pat into a 1-inch (2.5-cm) thick square, bringing in stray bits on the sides as you go.

Cut dough into four equal-size pieces. Stack pieces on top of one another and press down to combine the pieces. Dust work surface with flour and roll dough into a 1-inch (2.5-cm) thick square. If you like your biscuits to look neat, trim edges of dough. Cut into 12 equal-size rectangles. Transfer to prepared baking sheet, spacing apart equally. Place sheet in freezer for 10 minutes or fridge for 30 minutes.

Thin remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) sour cream with a little water until it’s the consistency of heavy cream. Brush over tops of biscuits and bake biscuits in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until tops and bottoms are deep golden.          Makes 12 biscuits

Unfried Chicken With Thyme Ranch

Unfried Chicken With Thyme Ranch

To simulate the flavour and crunch of fried chicken, thighs and drummies are seasoned with Old Bay, dipped in eggs and buttermilk then coated in crushed cornflakes. Baked to golden perfection, the juicy pieces are served with a tangy ranch dip flavoured with thyme. When shopping for cooking spray, look for brands where the only ingredient is oil.CJJ

Ingredients:
Thyme Ranch Dip
1/2 cup (125 mL) mayonnaise, preferably Hellmann’s
1/2 cup (125 mL) shaken buttermilk
2 tsp (10 mL) fresh lemon juice
1 small clove garlic, grated on rasp
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1/4 cup (60 mL) finely sliced chives
1 tsp (5 mL) finely chopped thyme
Chicken
6 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs, about 1 3/4 lbs (795 g) total
6 skin-on chicken drumsticks, about 1 1/3 lbs (605 g) total
Old Bay Seasoning and salt to taste
Olive or canola oil spray
6 cups (1.5 L) cornflakes
2 large eggs
1/4 cup (60 mL) shaken buttermilk
1 tsp (5 mL) paprika
1/2 tsp (2 mL) garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Flaky sea salt to finish (optional)
Frank’s RedHot sauce for serving

Directions:
For the ranch, whisk mayo, buttermilk, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth. Stir in herbs. Transfer to an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 week.

For the chicken, lay out chicken on a baking tray. Pat dry with paper towel. Season lightly with Old Bay then lightly with salt. Transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate overnight.

Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with foil. Cover with a rack. Spray rack with oil.

Place cornflakes in a large freezer bag. Press out air and seal. Using a rolling pin, roll bag to crush cereal until most flakes are 1/4 inch (5 mm) or less. Transfer to a shallow baking dish. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Working one piece at a time, dip chicken in egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Dredge in cornflake mixture and place on prepared tray, skin side up. Spray chicken with canola oil. Bake on middle rack until crispy and cooked through, about 45 minutes.

Remove from oven and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle lightly with flaky salt (if desired) and serve with Thyme Ranch Dip and Frank’s RedHot sauce.
Serves 4 to 6

Vegan ZLT Sandwich

Vegan ZLT Sandwich

The beloved BLT is given a vegan-friendly update using ribbons of marinated zucchini and a super creamy mayo made from cashews which have been soaked overnight. A high-speed blender is essential to blend the nuts fully, so if you don’t have one, swap in store-bought vegan mayo instead. Grey zucchini is slightly sweet with tender skin flecked with soft green and grey tones.

Ingredients:

Vegan Mayo

1 1/2 cups (375 mL) raw cashews

1/2 cup (125 mL) water

4 tsp (20 mL) strained fresh lemon juice

1 tsp (5 mL) Dijon mustard

1/2 garlic clove, peeled

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Marinated Zucchini

1 medium green or grey zucchini, about 12 oz (340 g), trimmed

Salt to taste

2 tbsp (30 mL) extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp (15 mL) strained fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp (15 mL) finely sliced chives

1 tbsp (15 mL) finely chopped parsley

1/2 garlic clove, finely grated

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Sandwiches

8 slices sourdough boule

1 to 2 large heirloom tomatoes, thinly sliced

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 cup (250 mL) micro arugula or radish sprouts

Directions:

For the vegan mayo, place cashews in a 4-cup (1-L) Mason jar. Completely fill with cold water. Cover with lid. Refrigerate overnight.

Drain cashews and place in a high-speed blender. Add 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh water, lemon juice, Dijon and garlic. 

Blend on medium speed to combine roughly, then increase to high speed and blend, scraping down sides halfway through, until mixture is silky and smooth, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Blend on high speed until fully combined, about 30 seconds. 

Transfer to an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 week.

For the marinated zucchini, thinly slice zucchini lengthwise into paper-thin ribbons on a mandoline. (Or shave off ribbons with a vegetable peeler). Transfer to a colander set over a bowl. Season with salt, gently tossing to ensure each slice is fully coated. Let stand until zucchini is lightly softened and some liquid has drained, 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse well under cold, running water.

In a medium bowl, whisk oil, lemon juice, chives, parsley and garlic. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Shake off excess liquid from zucchini, then pat dry with paper towel, firmly pressing to remove as much liquid as possible. Add to oil mixture, tossing to coat fully. Transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 1 day.

5. For the sandwiches, smear each slice of bread generously with vegan mayo. Divide marinated zucchini among four bread slices. Top with tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Top with microgreens. Top with remaining four slices of bread, mayo side down. Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.

 

Serves 4 

Roast Asparagus Soup With Potatoes.

 

Roasted Asparagus Soup With Potato

Serves 6 to 8

1 lb. fresh asparagus, tough ends snapped off 

1 1/2 T. olive oil 

1/2 tsp. salt 

1/2 tsp. pepper 

4 T. butter, divided use 

1 cup diced onion 

 2 medium-size Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced 

4 cups chicken broth 

Salt and pepper to taste 

6 T. crème fraiche 

12 pieces (cut in 1-inch lengths) chives 

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat asparagus lightly with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer; season with salt and pepper. Roast for 16 minutes or until tender and slightly browned, turning over after 8 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool. 

 

Meanwhile, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat; add onion, and cook, stirring frequently, 3 minutes or until tender. Add remaining butter and stir until melted. Add potatoes, and cook, stirring occasionally, 3 minutes. Stir in chicken broth. Bring to boil; reduce heat to medium, and simmer 8 to 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender. 

 

Chop asparagus into 1/4-inch pieces. Add chopped asparagus to soup; cook, stirring occasionally, 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool 10 minutes. 

 

Process asparagus soup mixture in batches in a blender 8 to 10 seconds or until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides (or use an emersion blender right in the pot). Return asparagus mixture to Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 

 

5. To serve, spoon hot soup into bowls and drizzle with crème fraiche and cross 2 chive pieces in the center of each bowl.

Grilled Fennel and Salmon Arugula Salad

Grilled Fennel And Salmon Arugula Salad

Recipe and photo courtesy of Dennis Sydnor, Renegade Dining and Cafe Federico in Sacramento CA
Ingredients:
Salad

8 cups water
Juice of 1 lemon
½ pound bacon
12 asparagus spears
1 cup arugula
1 cup strawberries
2 fennel bulbs
1 pound wild-caught salmon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 eggs
Herb Mustard Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon shallots, minced
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
1 teaspoon fresh chives, minced
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon fresh dill, minced
½ cup extra virgin olive oil

Directions:
Preheat grill to 450 degrees F. Add water and lemon juice to medium-size sauce pot over medium heat. Heat to 180 to 190 degrees F. 

For salad dressing, combine all ingredients in a lidded jar, secure lid, then shake vigorously. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. If dressing separates, shake again just before dressing salad. Store in the refrigerator.

For the bacon, preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lay bacon on parchment-lined baking sheet and place in oven. Cook for 15 minutes or until crispy. Allow to cool, then crumble. 

Adjust oven temperature to lowest setting for warming. Rinse all produce and pat dry. Snap off and dispose of hard, stringy bottoms of asparagus. Cut off about 1 inch of tips. Using potato peeler, shave down exterior of asparagus, then cut the centers into 1-inch pieces.

In bowl, mix asparagus shavings, centers, and tops with arugula. Cut strawberries into quarters and set aside. Keep chilled. 

Cut fennel bulbs in half lengthwise, remove any hard or badly blemished portions. Pat dry salmon, then cut into 4 portions. Drizzle fennel and salmon with olive oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.

Grill salmon for 4 to 5 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 137 degrees F. Tip: Cook salmon about 8 minutes for every 1 inch of thickness. Place salmon in oven using oven-safe dish or tent with foil to keep warm. 

Grill fennel for 3 to 5 minutes per side or until tender. Remove from grill, cut halves into quarters. Set aside and keep warm with salmon. Note: Some charring on the fennel and salmon is ideal to add flavor.

Toss arugula and asparagus with preferred amount of dressing. Plate onto serving platter or 4 individual serving dishes. Evenly top with strawberries, bacon, grilled fennel, and salmon.

For poached egg, crack eggs into individual bowls. Using a slotted spoon, gently swirl the simmering water-lemon juice on stove. Immediately lower the eggs, 1 at a time, into the water. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes for a soft yolk, longer for preferred doneness. Remove each egg with slotted spoon and place on top of plated ingredients. Season with salt and freshly ground cracked pepper. Serve salad immediately.

A Spring Risotto From The Garden

                                        

A Spring Risotto From The Garden 

I never quite understood the unbridled excitement about fresh fava beans in restaurants—until I grew my own. I find such joy in these substantial beans that I can cook within a few hours—even minutes—of harvest. And while prepping them does take time, it is well worth the effort.

Two raised beds in my small backyard often yield spring harvests of fava, snow peas, snap peas, mint, and chives. If I pick a lemon on the way to the kitchen, this dish becomes a true expression of my spring garden!  Serves 4–6

Ingredients:
1 pound fresh fava beans (¹/³–½ cup shelled)

4–6 spears asparagus, woody ends removed, spears sliced into 1-inch pieces
8–12 snap peas (or snow peas), trimmed and strings removed
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 red onion or spring onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic
2 cups rice (carnaroli or arborio)
½ cup white wine
2 tablespoons chopped mint and chives plus some whole or lightly chopped leaves for garnish
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Sea salt and finely ground black pepper to taste
½–1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (optional)
Your best extra virgin olive oil for finishing

Directions:

If you are starting with fava beans in their pods, remove and discard the pods and drop the beans into boiling water for 30 seconds. Transfer to an ice bath, and when beans are fully cooled, drain and remove the skin that surrounds each bean by pinching one end to pop the bright-green bean out.

Blanch the asparagus pieces and snap peas briefly in boiling water. Set aside.

Heat broth to a simmer and keep it simmering on the stove.

Heat ¼ cup olive oil in a 10- to 12-inch heavy-bottomed, straight-sided skillet or Dutch oven. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent. Then stir in the rice until it is evenly coated with oil. Add the wine and stir until it’s absorbed.

Add broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly and keeping risotto at a steady simmer. When rice is creamy and al dente, stir in half of the vegetables.

Stir in chopped mint and chives along with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest to taste. Stir in the grated cheese (if using) and some of your best extra virgin olive oil. Turn off the heat, cover, and let risotto rest for a few minutes before serving.

Distribute the risotto into shallow bowls and divide the remaining fava beans, asparagus, and snap peas evenly among the servings. Garnish with the reserved mint and chives. Offer grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and extra virgin olive oil at the table so your guests can add more of each as they wish.

Serve as an entrée or a side dish with grilled or slow-baked salmon. A crisp white wine goes well with this dish.

Lobster Thermidor Burger

Lobster Thermidor Burger

Classic lobster thermidor is reimagined as a luxurious burger with a lobster-shrimp patty, two cheeses and a divine brown butter-tarragon mayo. Made from 18 herbs and spices, Old Bay is a famous seasoning blend from Maryland that really makes shellfish sing.

Ingredients:

1/2 lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled, deveined
1/2 cup (125 mL) panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp (30 mL) finely chopped chives
1 egg
1 tbsp (15 mL) sour cream
1 tsp (5 mL) Keen’s mustard or other English mustard
1 tsp (5 mL) brandy 
1 tsp (5 mL) Old Bay seasoning
1 lb (455 g) cooked lobster meat, cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) chunks
2 tbsp (30 mL) unsalted butter
1/2 cup (125 mL) mayonnaise
1 tsp (5 mL) dried tarragon
1 tsp (5 mL) finely grated lemon zest
1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground black pepper
Canola oil for cooking
1/2 cup (125 mL) grated Gruyère
1/4 cup (60 mL) grated Parmesan
4 brioche buns, halved
4 leaves bibb or leaf lettuce, trimmed to fit bun

Directions: 

Place shrimp in bowl of food processor and pulse until a paste forms, about 30 seconds. Transfer to large bowl, fold in breadcrumbs, chives, egg, sour cream, mustard, brandy and Old Bay until thoroughly mixed. Add lobster and mix until just combined. Form into four equal patties to fit buns. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but no more than 8 hours.

Place butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until brown and foamy, about 3 minutes. Cool 2 minutes. Combine brown butter, mayonnaise,  tarragon, lemon zest and pepper in medium bowl and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, up 1 week.

Heat a film of oil in a large ovenproof, nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add burgers and reduce heat to medium. Cook until well browned  and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached, about 3 minutes per side.

While burgers are cooking, preheat broiler on low.

When burgers are done, combine Gruyère and Parmesan and divide evenly over burgers. Place frying pan under broiler until cheese is golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove from oven.

Toast buns and spread mayo mixture on both sides. Top with burgers and lettuce. Serve immediately.  Serves 4

 

 

Pork Roast With Winter Vegetables & Calvados Gravy

Pork Pot Roast with Winter 

Vegetables & Calvados Gravy

A mash-up of a pot roast and a sheet-pan dinner, a juicy pork roast is first braised in a bath of cider, onions and thyme. It’s finished on a bed of winter vegetables, while the braising liquid is transformed into a sumptuous, onion-thickened gravy. It’s a comforting dish and an affordable way to feed a crowd.  
Ingredients:
4 lb (1.81 kg) boneless pork butt roast, tied
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2 tbsp (30 mL) canola oil
3 onions, diced, about 3 cups (750 mL)
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
3 tsp (15 mL) chopped thyme, divided
1/4 cup (60 mL) Calvados (or brandy)
1 cup (250 mL) dry hard apple cider
3 cups (750 mL) unsalted chicken stock, preferably homemade
1 bay leaf
2 small red onions, about 5 oz (140 g) each, peeled, quartered
16 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed
1 lb (455 g) celeriac, peeled, cut into
1 1/2-inch (4-cm) chunks
1/4 cup (60 mL) heavy cream
Finely sliced chives to garnish
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°F).

Pat pork dry with paper towel. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully transfer pork to pan, fat side down. Cook, turning occasionally, until nicely browned on all six sides, 12 to 14 minutes total. (Lower heat if it’s starting to scorch.) Transfer pork to a plate and reduce heat to medium. Scoop off all but 2 tbsp (30 mL) rendered fat. (Reserve another 2 tbsp/30 mL for roasting vegetables.)

Add onions to pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and 2 tsp (10 mL) thyme. Cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add Calvados and cider. Raise heat to high and scrape up any brown bits with a wooden spoon. Return roast to pan, placing it on its side. Add stock and bay leaf. When it comes to a boil, cover and place in oven. Cook, carefully flipping roast at halfway mark, until meat is fork tender, about 3 hours.

Remove pot from oven and raise temperature to 425°F (218°C).

Carefully transfer roast to a plate. Tent with foil. Pour braising liquid into a medium saucepan. Discard bay leaf. Using a ladle, skim and discard as much fat as possible. Set pan aside.

Place red onions, Brussels sprouts and celeriac on a large, heavy-duty baking sheet. Drizzle with reserved pork fat, sprinkle with remaining 1 tsp (5 mL) thyme and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Bake on rack in lower third of oven for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, flip vegetables and place roast in middle, fat side up. Bake until vegetables are tender and nicely browned, about 10 minutes more.

When vegetables first go in the oven, place saucepan over high heat. When it comes to a boil, reduce heat to maintain a vigorous simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally and skimming fat, until sauce tastes lip-smackingly good—it will be reduced to around 2 1/2 cups (625 mL). Transfer sauce to blender and purée until smooth. Transfer to a small saucepan and stir in cream. Keep hot over low heat.

Arrange vegetables on a large, warmed serving platter and sprinkle with chives. Cut pork in half crosswise then into 3/4‑inch (2-cm) thick slices. Place pork on platter. Serve with gravy on side.   Serves 6 to 8

Green Goddess White Bean Dip ~ Vegan

Green Goddess White Bean Dip 

A mash-up of green goddess dressing and hummus, this verdant dip is a great excuse to raid your herb garden. Avocado gives it the creaminess we all crave from a chip-and-vegetable dip, while keeping the dip dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients
1 can (19 oz) white kidney beans, drained, rinsed
1 large ripe avocado, flesh removed
2 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tbsp (30 mL) toasted pine nuts, plus more to garnish
1/2 cup (125 mL) chopped flat-leaf parsley
1/2 cup (125 mL) chopped basil
1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped chives
3 tbsp (45 mL) fresh lemon juice
1 tsp (5 mL) finely grated lemon zest
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
3 tbsp (45 mL) extra virgin olive oil
Flaky sea salt and whole basil leaves to garnish

Directions:
In a food processor, combine beans, avocado, garlic, pine nuts, parsley, basil, chives, lemon juice and zest. Blend until smooth, about 2 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl. Season with salt and pepper. With motor running, slowly add olive oil. Run machine until smooth, about 1 minute.

Transfer dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with pine nuts, a pinch of flaky salt and basil leaves. Serves 6 to 8

Khachapuri

 

Khachapuri  Geogian Church Bread

This soft, cheese-filled bread is the national dish of the country of Georgia. Part of its charm is that it varies by region; the open-faced Adjaruli version is filled with cheese and herbs, and garnished with an egg on top. Georgians typically serve khachapuri for breakfast or enjoy it at lunch; either way, it's a traditional way to welcome friends and family to the table. Using bread flour in this recipe makes the dough easier to work with, less prone to tear, and a sturdier "nest" for its substantial filling. Prep 1 hr. Bake 25 to 32 min. Yield: 4 Breads 
Ingredients
Dough
3 tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter
1 cup (227g) milk
1 1/2 teaspoons (6g) granulated sugar or 1 tablespoon (9g) non-  
   diastatic malt powder
1/2 teaspoon coriander
1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt
2 teaspoons instant yeast or active dry yeast
2 3/4 cups (330g) Unbleached Bread Flour

Filling

2 cups (227g) mozzarella cheese or Muenster cheese, shredded
1/2 cup (113g) ricotta cheese
1/2 cup (57g) crumbled feta cheese
1 large egg
2 tablespoons (14g) Unbleached Bread Flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 to 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons finely chopped chives

Egg wash

1 large egg beaten with 1 teaspoon water

Garnish

4 large eggs, cold from the refrigerator
4 teaspoons (19g) butter

Directions:

To make the dough: Heat the butter and milk together in a small saucepan or in the microwave until the butter melts.

Place the sugar (or malt powder), coriander, and salt in a large bowl, and pour the hot milk over it, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Cool to lukewarm, about 100°F to 110°F.

Weigh your flour; or measure it by gently spooning it into a cup, then sweeping off any excess. Stir in the yeast and flour, mixing until a shaggy mass forms. Cover with plastic wrap or a reusable bowl cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

After the rest, knead until smooth; 8 to 10 minutes by hand, or 6 to 8 minutes at medium speed in a mixer. Knead in an additional 1 to 2 tablespoons flour if the dough is uncomfortably sticky.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until it increases in size by at least one third.

To make the filling: Place all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl and beat to combine, or pulse everything together briefly with a food processor; leave some bits of the cheese intact.

To assemble: Line two baking sheets with parchment. Turn the risen dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into four equal pieces, about 150g each.

Roll each piece into an oval shape about 10" long and 6" wide. Cover with greased plastic wrap, and let rest for 15 minutes.

Spoon one quarter of the cheese mixture (about 119g) into the center of each and spread to within 1" of the edges.

Pull the dough's edges up around the cheese, folding and twisting the ends to form a boat shape.

Cover and let rise for 20 minutes, or until puffy but not doubled. While the breads are rising, preheat the oven to 375°F with two racks toward the center.  

Brush the exposed edges of the khachapuri with the egg wash and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until they feel set; they won't have started to brown nor will the filling be bubbly, but don't worry; they're going to continue to bake once you add their egg-and-butter garnish.

Remove from the oven and use the back of a spoon to make an indentation about 3" across in the filling of each khachapuri. Crack an egg into each, place a teaspoon of butter on top, and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes (for soft-set eggs), or 12 to 15 minutes (for firmer eggs).

Remove from the oven and serve warm. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired.

Storage information: Store any leftover khachapuri, well wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Tips from our Bakers

While there are many regional iterations, the Adjaruli khachapuri is probably the most familiar to Americans; this recipe has been tweaked somewhat to include readily available ingredients (see tip below). Made in an oval, with an egg added for the second half of the bake, it's thought to evoke a boat, the ocean, and the sun, testament to the region of Adjara's location on the Black Sea.

While the traditional cheeses used in native Georgian Adjaruli khachapuri are imeruli and sulguni, they're difficult to find in this country. The most commonly suggested (and available) substitutes for these Georgian cheeses are mozzarella and feta, which we've combined here with ricotta.