Shakshuka

 

Shakshuka

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
Few pinches kosher salt
1 tablespoon harissa or pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
28 oz. canned petite diced tomatoes
4 eggs
1 avocado, diced
3/4 cup labneh or Greek yogurt, whisked smooth
Big pinch za’atar
Parsley, cilantro or mint leaves, to finish
Directions:
1 medium yellow onion, diced
Few pinches kosher salt
1 tablespoon harissa or pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
28 oz. canned petite diced tomatoes
4 eggs
1 avocado, diced
3/4 cup labneh or Greek yogurt, whisked smooth
Big pinch za’atar
Parsley, cilantro or mint leaves, to finish
Directions:
Heat the olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and a pinch of salt, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent but not browned.

Stir in the harissa or red pepper flakes if using, coriander, paprika, garlic powder and fresh garlic, stirring just until fragrant, about a minute. Add the tomatoes and sugar and cook until warmed through. 

To poach the eggs, crack each one individually into a little bowl (easier to get the shell out if needed) and add them one at a time. I like to crack eggs on a paper towel, then slip them into the bowl, to keep from getting egg all over the counter. 

The eggs will cook through in the tomatoes with a sunny-side-up look (but the longer they’re in there, the more cooked through the yolks  will be). Or, put a lid on the pan and cook the eggs more swiftly to your desired doneness.

Before serving, top the shakshuka with diced avocado and dollops of labneh. Dust with za’atar and finish with fresh herbs. Scoop the two eggs with tomatoes into each of two bowls to serve.

Individual Meatloaves With Vegetables

                                           

                      Individula Meatloaves With Vegetables

Meatloaf with a German influence.  Serve with a salad and dinner is ready.  A great prepare ahead!

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef

2 potatoes grated

1 cup grated carrot

1 onion grated

1 red pepper diced

1/2 cup chopped parsley

2 eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika 

Directions:

Prepare a baking sheet with sides with parchment paper.  Preheat oven to 400*F

Place meat in mixing bowl,  add ingredients in the order listed.  Mix with hands and form into serving sizes.

Bake at 400*F for 35 minutes and serve!

Form each serving egg shape but all with same thickness.  

Cod Air Fryer Recipe

Air Fryer Cod Recipe 

Ingredients:

2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp lemon juice
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
You can also add 1 tbsp panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Directions:

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes.

Pat the cod dry, brush with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 10–12 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips:

Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket.

For extra crispiness, add 1 tbsp panko breadcrumbs.

Works great with tilapia, haddock, or pollock too. 

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

 

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Juicy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this Spinach Stuffed Chicken is the perfect keto-friendly dinner. Each serving has 3.2g net carbs and a whopping 47g of protein, making it a satisfying weeknight meal that's both healthy and indulgent.

Ingredients

 

4 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
8 ounces (226.8 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1/4 cup (59.15 ml) butter, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced, divided
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup (118.29 ml) whole milk ricotta
1/2 cup (118.29 ml) shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup (59.15 ml) grated Parmesan
1/2 tsp (0.5 tsp) paprika

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Squeeze as much moisture as possible out of the spinach. 

In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and 2 cloves of the minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper and mix well to combine.

Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast horizontally through the center, but don't cut all the way through. Open each breast like a book.

Stuff each chicken breast with 1/4 of this mixture and secure the opening with several toothpicks. Season the top and bottom of the breasts with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the butter to the pan and let melt. Once hot, add the remaining garlic and then add the chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown on the outside, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Place the entire skillet in the oven and cook until the chicken reaches 165ºF on an instant read thermometer, about 20 minutes.

Want to prep your stuffed chicken breast ahead of time? No problem!       Proceed through Steps 1 to 3.      Then refrigerate the chicken breasts for up to 8 hours before cooking. Be sure to cook thoroughly and make sure the breasts AND the filling reach an internal temperature of at least 165ºF.

Cabbage Roll Casserole With Dilled Sour Cream

                        Cabbage Roll Casserole With Dilled Sour Cream

Cabbage Roll Casserole with Dilled Sour CreamThis comforting dish delivers all the beloved flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with a fraction of the effort. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage and rice bake in a rich tomato sauce crowned with melted cheese until golden and bubbly. A vibrant dilly sour cream adds a fresh, creamy finish to this crowd-pleasing casserole.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil, divided, plus more for greasing pan and foil

1 large onion, finely chopped
1 lb (455 g) lean ground beef
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2 tsp (10 mL) paprika
3/4 tsp (4 mL) dried thyme
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (398 mL) diced tomatoes
1 can or jar (about 680 mL) tomato sauce
1 bay leaf
10 cups (2.5 L) thinly sliced cabbage
3 cups (750 mL) cooked long-grain rice, from 1 cup (250 mL) uncooked rice
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) shredded old white cheddar cheese
1 cup (250 mL) full-fat sour cream
2 tbsp (30 mL) finely chopped fresh dill, plus more to garnish (optional)
Directions:
Heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. When hot, add onions. Cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes. Add ground beef and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, stirring to combine with onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.

Add paprika, thyme and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Carefully add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes, stirring once or twice.

Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in large pot over
medium heat. When hot, add cabbage. Cook, stirring often, until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.  When meat mixture is done, stir in rice.  Taste and adjust seasoning.

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly oil a 9 × 13-inch (23 × 33-cm) casserole dish.

Spread half of cabbage over bottom of casserole followed by half meat mixture. Repeat with remaining cabbage and meat. Mix mozzarella and cheddar together in a bowl, then sprinkle over casserole.

Lightly oil a piece of foil then cover casserole, oil side down. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake, uncovered, until cheese is melted and starting to brown, 15 to 20 minutes more.                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Meanwhile, mix sour cream, dill and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until combined.

Remove casserole from oven and rest for 10 minutes. Cut into serving sizes and serve a dollop of sour cream on side. Sprinkle with chopped dill, if desired.  Serves 6 to 8

Baked Salmon

                             The Best Baked Salmon
This is the salmon recipe you will turn to again and again. It's easy enough for a weeknight, but boasts smartly seasoned layers of flavor.  This simple baked salmon really hits all the right notes: tangy, sweet, savory, a little spicy and crunchy. Cooking a larger piece makes for a nice presentation. Topped with buttery golden breadcrumbs and parsley, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to serve 

to guests.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup parsley leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 pounds skin-on salmon fillet, preferably center-cut
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. Mix the panko with the parsley, butter, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and a few grinds of black pepper in another small bowl.

Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet and spread the surface with the Dijon. Press the brown sugar mixture all over the salmon then top with the breadcrumb mixture. Crimp all four sides of the foil to create a border around the salmon, this will help collect the juices so they don't spread and burn. Bake until the breadcrumbs are golden brown, and the salmon is firm and flakes easily when pressed, 15 to 18 minutes. Cut into four equal portions for serving.

Smoky Cheddar & Tomato Cornbread

                                           

               Smoky Cheddar & Tomato Cornbread

This rich, moist cornbread is the perfect side for BBQ ribs or brisket and slaw. You can use one large tomato or use a variety of heirlooms, 

a slice or two from each. Their size doesn’t matter as much as the combined weight. If you prefer to be outside (and who doesn’t!), cornbread can be baked over indirect heat on the grill with the lid closed. Simply maintain the temp as indicated for the oven method

and rotate your pan every 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) medium-grind cornmeal
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) salt
1/2 tsp (2 mL) coarsely ground black pepper
1 tsp (5 mL) smoked paprika
2 tsp (10 mL) baking powder
1/2 tsp (2 mL) baking soda
2 tsp (10 mL) sugar
5 green onions
5 oz (140 g) coarsely grated smoked cheddar
2 eggs
1 cup (250 mL) sour cream or crème fraîche
3/4 cup (175 mL) milk or water
12 tbsp (180 mL, 1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
1 1/4 lbs (565 g) heirloom tomatoes, sliced a scant 1/2-inch (1-cm) thick
Flaky sea salt to serve
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Butter a 10-inch (25-cm) cast-iron skillet.

In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, baking powder, baking soda and sugar. Thinly slice white and light green parts of green onion. Add to dry ingredients along with cheddar and stir to combine. Reserve green onion tails.

In a second bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, milk and butter.

Pour over dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Scrape into prepared skillet and level. Top with overlapping slices of tomato leaving a 1-inch (2.5-cm) border all around.

Bake on centre rack for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in centre comes out clean. Let stand 20 minutes.

Sprinkle top of cornbread with flaky salt and reserved green onion tails, thinly sliced. Cut into squares to serve.   Serves 6 to 8

Smoky Tahini Salad Dressing

Creamy Smoky Tahini

A good salad dressing is the ultimate multitasker. Keep a few of these beauties on hand and you will have the tools to dress up all manner of salads, sauces for everything from pasta to grilled fish, plus ready to go marinades for meat. I will post one week of fresh and tasty dressings.  Makes about 3/4 cup.

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons tahini
1 small garlic crushed
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
Whisking until smooth.
Beat in:2 tablespoons water a little at a time until smooth and until you have achieved the desired thickness.
Season with salt and fresh ground pepper. Yield: 3/4 cup.

Iconic KFC Seasoning

 

Iconic KFC Seasoning

Discover the secret to the iconic KFC seasoning with this easy, flavorful copycat recipe. Perfect for chicken and other dishes, it brings the famous taste right to your kitchen!

Ingredients:
2/3 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/3 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried mustard
4 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons garlic salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
3 teaspoons white pepper

Directions:
The seasoning spices are mixed with 2 cups of flour to create the iconic KFC breading.
Directions:                                                                                     Measure out each ingredient carefully according to your preferred 

taste or the exact proportions you’re following from a recipe.

In a non-slip mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. Stir well until the spices are evenly mixed.
Once thoroughly mixed, transfer the seasoning blend into a glass spice storage jar for easy use. Make sure the jar is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
To use, sprinkle generously over chicken before frying, or use it as a seasoning.

Fancy Meatball Tarts

                                                      

                        Fancy Meatball Tarts
Can you think of a cuter way to present mini meatballs than in golden phyllo cups? You can make these moist meatballs ahead of time. This will simplify your final prep on the evening of the party. Don’t hesitate to switch up the seasonings used in the meatballs. Try your favourite combo—or, if you’re making them on warmer days, consider using chopped fresh basil and oregano.

Ingredients:
1 egg
1/4 cup (60 mL) milk
1 slice white bread, or 1/4 cup (60 mL) fine dry bread crumbs
1 lb (455 g) ground beef
1/2 tsp (2 mL) dried leaf thyme
1/2 tsp (2 mL) paprika
1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
Generous pinch of allspice (optional)
1/2 cup (125 mL) finely grated Parmesan
1/4 cup (60 mL) finely chopped green onion tops
9 sheets frozen phyllo pastry, thawed
1/3 cup (80 mL) melted butter
3/4 cup (175 mL) jellied cranberry sauce
Chopped green onions or tiny basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).

For meatballs, whisk egg and milk together in a small bowl. If using white bread, remove crusts and discard. Finely chop white bread. Stir chopped bread or bread crumbs into milk mixture. Let sit until mushy, about 10 minutes.

Spread out meat in a large bowl. Spread bread mixture overtop. Sprinkle with thyme, paprika, salt and allspice. Work in with a fork. Then work in cheese and onions. Don’t hesitate to use your hands to mix.

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Using moistened hands, shape 1 tbsp (15 mL) of meat mixture into a 1-inch (2.5-cm) ball; place on baking sheet. Repeat with remaining mixture. Bake 10 minutes. (Meatballs will bake more in tart shells.) If not using baked meatballs right away, place on a sheet pan. Cover and refrigerate up to 2 days, or freeze in a sealed container. Bring to room temperature before baking in phyllo shells.

To prepare pastry, heat oven to 350°F (177°C).

Unroll phyllo on a counter. Carefully remove one sheet and place on counter separately. (Keep remaining phyllo covered with a clean damp dishtowel.) Lightly brush single sheet with melted butter. Top with a second sheet, lining up sheets as best you can, and brush with butter. Repeat with a third sheet and brush with butter. Cut stacked sheets into 3-inch (8-cm) squares. Nestle each into the well of a mini muffin cup, gently pressing into the bottom and up the sides. Repeat with remaining squares. If you only have one muffin tin, work in batches.

Heat jellied cranberry sauce in microwave just until it starts to bubble. Stir until smooth. Pour into a small bowl. Roll one meatball in sauce to coat lightly, then carefully place in a phyllo cup. Repeat until all cups are filled. Bake in centre of oven until phyllo is golden, 5 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, repeat process using remaining meatballs and phyllo in a second muffin pan.

If you wish, brush top of baked warm meatballs with more cranberry sauce. Serve warm, garnished with sliced green onions or tiny basil leaves if desired.   Makes 30 tarts

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

Crusted Salmon With Green Beans And Preserved Lemon Sauce

Crusted Salmon With Green Beans 

And Preserved Lemon Sauce

The semolina on top of the salmon gives a lovely crust and the paprika adds to the flavor. 

Ingredients:
25g (1oz) semolina
1 tsp paprika
4 × 125g (4½oz) salmon fillets, skinned
A large knob of soft butter, plus extra for greasing
Small bunch of parsley, stalks removed and reserved
175g (6oz) samphire substitute green beans or asparagus
½ lemon, cut into 4 wedges, to serve
Lemon Sauce
1 large or 2 small preserved lemons, quartered and pulps removed
Juice of ½ lemon
3 tbsp mayonnaise
200g (7oz) full fat crème fraîche

Directions:                                                                                         Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/Gas 6 and butter a baking sheet.

Sprinkle the semolina and paprika on to a large plate and season with salt and black pepper. Spread the top of each salmon fillet with the butter and press the fillets, buttered side down, on to the semolina to give an even crust.

Lay the parsley stalks on the baking sheet and sit the salmon fillets on top of the stalks. Bake in the oven for 15–18 minutes, until the salmon is just opaque and the top is crisp and golden. If liquid is beginning to seep out of the salmon, it is overcooked – it should be holding the juices.

To make the sauce, gather up the parsley leaves and place in a food processor. Add the preserved lemon(s) and whiz until finely chopped. Add the lemon juice, mayonnaise and crème fraîche and season with salt and pepper – go easy on the salt as the lemons are preserved in brine. Process until finely chopped.

When you are ready to serve, boil the samphire in salted water for 2 minutes, then drain, and heat the sauce gently until just melted.

Arrange the hot salmon fillets on a plate with the samphire, sauce and a lemon wedge alongside.

Salmon can be prepared with crust on top up to 4 hours ahead. Sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead.  Not for freezing.

Blooming Onion With Dipping Sauce

Blooming Onion With Dipping Sauce

Breaded and deep-fried onions are a staple in many restaurants. They're also delicious at home, but they can be difficult to make. If you're looking for an easier way to enjoy this appetizer, consider using your air fryer! Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to make the perfect air fryer blooming onion.
Ingredients:
1 large sweet onion
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or black pepper
Directions:
Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting.
Slice the top 1/2 inch of the stem end of the onion and peel the whole onion.
Place the onion cut side down so the root end is facing up on a cutting board.
Taking a knife, about 1/2 inch from the root, cut down four slices, so the onion is now cut into fourths but still intact. Between those cuts, make three more even cuts, making sure not to cut through the root or accidentally cut off a chunk. Turn the onion right side up and generally separate the petals, set aside.                                                                              

In a medium-sized bowl, big enough to fit the onion, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together, set aside.  

In another medium-sized bowl large enough to fit the onion, whisk together the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and cayenne.

The best you can dip the onion in the buttermilk mixture, coating everything. You may need to use your hands for this. Place the onion into the flour and coat with the flour. 

Separate the petals in each step to make sure to coat. Shake off any excess flour. Dip the onion once again in the buttermilk mixture the once again in the flour mixture. You can also open the petals up and sprinkle the flour inside to make sure everything is coated.

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Place the onion cut side up into the basket.

Spray very generously with cooking spray.

Air Fry for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown, and the onion is tender.  

About every 8 minutes, open up the air fryer and respray cooking spray on top.

Serve with the dipping sauce.

Dipping Sauce
Ingredients:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons cream-style horseradish sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
⅓ teaspoon paprika
⅓ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon dried oregano
1 pinch ground black pepper
Directions:

Combine the ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve. Best to make ahead allowing flavors to develop and meld.

Marquez-Style Vegan "Meatballs" with Cashew "Yogurt" ~ Vegan

                                                   

Marquez-Style "Meatballs With Cashew "Yogurt"

Crusty, juicy and perfumed with North African spices, these plant-based “meatballs” use Beyond Beef, an excellent ground beef substitute available at many natural food stores and supermarkets. They are swiped through a rich, tangy, dairy-free “yogurt” made from cashews.   Serves 6, makes approx. 25 “meatballs”

Ingredients:

Cashew “Yogurt”
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) raw cashews
2 tbsp (30 mL) plus 2 tsp (10 mL) strained fresh lemon juice
3/4 tsp (4 mL) fine sea salt
Vegan “Meatballs”
2 pkgs (each 340 g) Beyond Meat Beyond Beef, thawed if frozen
2 cloves garlic, grated on rasp
1/4 cup (60 mL) panko bread crumbs
1 tbsp (15 mL) paprika
1 tsp (5 mL) ground cumin
1 tsp (5 mL) ground coriander
1 tsp (5 mL) ground fennel seed
3/4 tsp (4 mL) fine sea salt
1/2 tsp (2 mL) cayenne
1/2 tsp (2 mL) freshly ground black pepper
Canola oil for frying
Pita or naan for serving

Directions
For the cashew “yogurt,” soak cashews in cold water to cover overnight. Drain and add to a blender with 3/4 cup (175 mL) water, lemon juice and salt. Blend until smooth. Transfer to an airtight container. (“Yogurt” can be made and refrigerated up to 5 days in advance.)

For the “meatballs,” in a mixing bowl, combine Beyond Beef, garlic, panko, paprika, cumin, coriander, fennel, salt, cayenne and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands. Using oiled hands, form heaping 1 tbsp (15 mL) portions into balls and place on a baking sheet. (If you have a scale, the balls should be about 1 oz/30 g each.)

Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C).

Heat a thin film of oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Working in 2 batches, cook “meatballs,” turning occasionally, until nicely browned, about 5 minutes total per batch. Transfer to a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven while cooking remaining “ meatballs.”

Serve “meatballs” hot with cashew “yogurt” and pita or naan.
Serves 6, makes approx. 25 “meatballs”

Jasmine Tea Brined Pork Tenderloin With Cucumber - Herb Salad

                                                                                                                                              

Jasmine Tea Brined Pork Tenderloin

With Cucumber - Herb Salad

Jasmine tea brings its delicate fragrance to an easy brine for pork tenderloin. A sweet-savory dry rub adds another layer of flavour before it hits the grill. Finally, a fresh, crunchy salad of cool cukes and tender herbs is like a rug that ties the room together. Serves 4
Ingredients:
1 1/2-inch (4-cm) knob ginger, halved lengthwise
1 tbsp (15 mL) sugar
3 tsp (15 mL) fine sea salt, divided
4 cups (1 L) boiling water
4 bags jasmine tea
2 pork tenderloins, each 12 oz (340 g; or 24 oz/680 g total)
3 tsp (15 mL) brown sugar, divided
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) cumin
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) paprika
3/4 tsp (4 mL) ground ginger
2 tbsp (30 mL) canola oil
2 tbsp (30 mL) fresh lime juice
4 tsp (20 mL) soy sauce
1 lb (455 g) mini cucumbers, about 7, cut into 3/4- to 1-inch (2- to 2.5-

   cm's chunks.
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) mint leaves
1 1/2 cups cilantro leaves
Toasted sesame seeds to garnish

Directions:
Place ginger, sugar and 2 tsp (10 mL) salt in a large bowl. Pour boiling water overtop and stir to dissolve sugar and salt. Add jasmine tea bags and stir once more. Set aside and cool to room temperature. Remove tea bags. Immerse pork, cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or up to 6 hours.

Remove pork from brine. Pat dry with paper towel. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. Discard brine.

To make dry rub, mix 1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) brown sugar, cumin, paprika, ground ginger and 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt in a small bowl. Set aside.

To make the dressing, place oil, lime juice, remaining 1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) brown sugar and 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Secure lid and shake until emulsified. Set aside.

Preheat grill to high, about 450°F (232°C). Brush pork with soy sauce then coat in dry rub.

While grill is heating, place cucumbers in a large freezer bag. Season with remaining 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt. Seal bag. Using a rolling pin or other heavy object, smash the cucumbers until they lightly crush and split. Refrigerate while you grill the pork.

Grill pork, covered and turning occasionally, until nicely charred, about 8 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-high. Continue cooking pork, turning occasionally, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part reads 140°F (60°C) for medium, about 4 minutes, or 160°F (71°C) for well-done, about 7 minutes.

Remove from grill and allow to rest while you prepare the salad.

To prepare salad, drain cucumbers in a colander and transfer to a large bowl. Add herbs and dressing and lightly toss. Transfer to a platter, gently pushing the bulk of the salad to the perimeter of the platter. Slice pork into 1/4‑inch- (5-mm-) thick rounds and place in centre of platter. Garnish with sesame seeds.

Spring Greens Salad with Radishes and Kumquats And Fennel Sausage

Spring Greens Salad With Radishes And 

Kumquats And Fennel Sausage

Ingredients:
For The Sausage
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon fennel seed
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pound ground beef

F‍or The Salad
1–2 heads spring greens/lettuces
10 kumquats, thinly sliced
1 bunch radishes, larger ones cut in half
1 lemon, juiced
Extra-virgin olive oil

Directions:
Make the Sausage:
In a medium mixing bowl stir together the seasoning and then add the ground beef. Mix with hands until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. With lightly oiled hands, gently roll mixture into 18 golf ball-size meatballs and then flatten slightly.
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium heat. Cook on each side 4-5 minutes, until cooked through. Set aside to rest.
Make the Salad:
On a large serving platter, arrange greens/lettuces, kumquats, and radishes. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. Add the cooked sausage to the salad platter, tucking between greens. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Chickpea Stew ~ Vegan

 

Chickpea Stew

The need for a good vegan party dish is constant, and this stew, perfect for any time but especially spring, fits the bill.   Here's a little hint: Make a pound of garbanzos and use four cups for this stew, and you'll have two cups for another dish. You can also make hummus or a Spanish dish with our Castillo Spanish Pimentón, roasted red peppers, and chorizo, or just add them to salads throughout the week.

Ingredients 

For The Sheet-pan Vegetables

Fresh strained juice of 1 orange

1/2 cup EVOO

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey, or more to taste

2 heaping teaspoons ground cumin

1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg 

1 heaping teaspoon turmeric powder

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne or hot paprika, or more to taste

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 medium head cauliflower, trimmed cut into small flowerettes

2 carrots, pared, halved lengthwise, cut into 2 inch pieces

2 large red onions, peeled and quartered 

For The Chickpeas

2 tablespoons EVOO plus more for drizzling

1 large red or yellow onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves

4 cups cooked Rancho Gordo Chickpeas, drained

1 heaping tablespoon Tomato paste

1 small seedless orange, preferably organic, cut into 4 wedges

2 fresh rosemary sprigs

2 to 4 cups hot vegetable broth or water, as needed.

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, mustard, honey, and all the spices including the salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables in this mixture to coat evenly. Spread the vegetables in one layer onto the sheet pan. Roast until tender and lightly charred, about 20 minutes, removing vegetables as they cook to avoid burning them. Set aside to cool and then cut into smaller pieces, a little larger than the chickpeas.   In the meantime, prepare the chickpeas: Heat the olive oil in a large wide pot and sauté the onion until translucent. Stir in the garlic. Add the chickpeas and stir. Stir in the tomato paste. Squeeze the orange wedges into the chickpeas to get out their juice and add the wedges, peel and all, to the pot. Add the rosemary and 2 cups of the hot broth or water. Season to taste with salt and pepper, partially cover the pot, and cook the chickpeas on low for the flavors to meld, about 15 or 20 minutes. If you want the mixture to be thick and creamy, you can mash a handful of chickpeas against the side of the pot.   Add the root vegetables to chickpeas, heat all together for about 5 minutes, stir in the balsamic vinegar, and serve.

Roasted Chicken and Clementines

Roasted Chicken & Clementines

Inspiration for the flavors here came from the clementine. Most of the supply comes from Morocco, and the spices here are definitely tagine-ish. The method, though, couldn’t be less exotic. Everything gets assembled in a roasting tin and blasted at high heat for a (relatively) short cook, just long enough to make some aromatic rice to go with it.

Ingredients:

Spice Mixture:

2 tsp (10 mL) ground cumin

1 tsp (5 mL) ground coriander

1/2 tsp (2 mL) turmeric

1/4 tsp (1 mL) cayenne

1 tsp (5 mL) paprika

1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) salt

1/4 tsp (1 mL) finely ground black pepper

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1 cup (250 mL) chicken stock

1/2 cup (125 mL) clementine juice

8 small shallots, peeled and halved lengthwise

6 Medjool dates, pitted and quartered lengthwise

1 large clove garlic, finely grated

3 clementines, sliced 1/4 inch (5 mm) thick

1/2 cup (125 mL) oil-cured black olives (optional)

Directions:

 Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).

Make spice mixture by stirring spices together in a small bowl.

Add chicken to a large bowl, sprinkle spice mixture over and toss until evenly coated; set aside.

To a large, shallow roasting tin, add chicken stock, clementine juice, shallots, dates and garlic. Give everything a stir to break up the garlic, then tuck in chicken thighs, skin side up. Evenly distribute the clementine slices, doing your best to avoid placing over chicken skin (it’s okay if some of the clementine slices overlap each other).

Roast for 35 to 40 minutes or until chicken skin is crisp. Sprinkle olives over, if using, and let stand for 10 minutes before serving with basmati rice, couscous or mashed potatoes.  Serves 4