Eggplant and Burrata Sandwiches With Pepper Relish ~ Vegetarian

Eggplant And Burrata Sandwiches With Pepper Relish 

Eggplant is an excellent vegetarian substitute for chicken or veal to make cutlets for a classic hot Italian sandwich. The crispy rounds are paired with creamy burrata, peppery arugula and a sweet-sour pepper condiment. Instead of focaccia, you could also serve it on ciabatta or crusty kaisers. Serves 4

Ingredients:
1 medium-size eggplant, about 14 oz (395 g)
Salt to taste
Pepper Relish
4 tbsp (60 mL) olive oil, divided
3/4 cup (175 mL) chopped onion
3 jarred roasted red peppers, drained, cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) dice
3 tbsp (45 mL) capers, drained, rinsed
4 tsp (20 mL) raisins
3 tbsp (45 mL) sherry vinegar
3 tbsp (45 mL) honey
3 tbsp (45 mL) water
1/4 cup (60 mL) roughly chopped basil

3/4 cup (175 mL) flour
2 large eggs
3/4 cup (175 mL) bread crumbs
4 cups (1 L) canola oil
1 focaccia, about 7 x 9 inches (18 x 23 cm), cut into four, split
1 container (250 g) burrata, drained, quartered
1 cup (250 mL) loosely packed arugula, divided

Directions:
Slice eggplant into 1/2-inch (1-cm) thick rounds. Season both sides with salt and place on a baking sheet lined with paper towel. Let stand for 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil in a medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Add onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add peppers, capers, raisins, vinegar, honey and water. When it comes to a simmer, cover partially with lid and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil. Cool completely then stir in the basil.

Firmly blot eggplant with paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible. Set aside.

In three shallow dishes, place flour, eggs beaten with 2 tbsp (30 mL) water, and bread crumbs.

In a large heavy-duty pot or Dutch oven, heat canola oil on medium to medium-high heat to 375°F (191°C).

Working in batches, dip eggplant in flour (shaking off excess), then egg (letting excess drip off), then bread crumbs. Fry until well browned and cooked through, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. (Adjust heat as necessary and don’t crowd the pan.) Drain on a baking sheet lined with paper towel.

To assemble sandwiches, lay out four bases of focaccia. On each, place 1/8 of pepper relish, 1/4 of fried eggplant, 1 portion of burrata, another 1/8 of pepper relish, 1/4 of the arugula and top piece of bread. Serve immediately.

Lamb Burgers

 

Lamb Burgers

Lamb burgers are such a delicious, great alternative to traditional beef patties! Mix with fresh herbs, garlic, and seasonings for an incredibly flavorful burger.
Ingredients
1 pound ground lamb
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
1 teaspoon dried mint
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

Toppings:

4 leaves lettuce
1 large tomato, thinly sliced
1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup garlic sauce, or other favorite sauce
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1 teaspoon dried mint
4 hamburger buns

Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine the ground lamb, garlic, chopped mint, dried mint, salt and pepper. Do not overwork the mixture; it's okay if the meat has a just-ground look to it rather than a smooth look, to keep the burgers from becoming too dense.

Divide the mixture into four meatballs (about 4 oz. each), again without overworking the meat (these should not be smooth). Gently flatten each ball to about an inch thick, and collect back to the patties any meat that may be falling away from the patties. If making ahead, cover and chill these for up to 2 days (bring to room temp before cooking).

Coat the cooking surface with the oil before heating. Heat a skillet, griddle, or grill to medium high. Cook the patties until they are cooked through to 160°F, flipping them over halfway through cooking (6-8 minutes total, depending on the thickness of the patties). Cook the burgers couple or even one at a time if needed, depending on the size of your cooking surface.

Layer the bottom half of each bun with lettuce, onion, and tomato. Place a patty on each. Top each patty with a dusting of dried and fresh mint. Top with sauce and serve immediately.

                    Steak And Pickled Celery Sandwich

A great sandwich packed with nutrition when time is not on your side.  Prepares in 10+ minutes, cooks in 10 minutes.  Serves 1-2Ingredients:1 sirloin steak1/4 cup coriander seeds2 stalks of celery + any leaves1/3 cup sherry vinegar1 tablespoon vegetable oil1 half ciabatta 2 tablespoons mayonnaiseDirections: Pat off any excess moisture from the steak using kitchen paper towel, then season with salt then set aside.  Heat a heavy bottom frying pan over medium heat and toast the coriander seeds for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, then roughly crush.  Finely slice the celery diagonally then add it to a small bowl with the coriander seeds, sherry vinegar, and a generous pinch of salt.
In the same skillet of high heat aadd the oil.  Once the pan is very hot, fry the steak 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and medium rare.  Rest for 5 minutes.
Halve and toast the ciabatta.  Pour any steak juices into the mayonnaise, then spread on the toasted ciabatta.  Slice the steak and pile in the sandwich with the celery and any leaves.

Halibut Burgers With Juniper Tartar

 

Halibut Burgers With Juniper Tartar Sauce 

Ingredients:
1 pound halibut meat (look for halibut pieces, sold in 1-pound bags)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 spring onions, minced
1 tablespoon dill or fennel, chopped
Zest from 1 lemon
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
¾ cup breadcrumbs, divided
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon oil
Sourdough buns, for serving
Juniper Tartar Sauce, for serving (recipe follows)

Directions;
Break apart halibut meat with two forks until no large chunks remain.

 

Add beaten egg and mix well with your hands. (Your hands will be 

quite involved for this recipe.)

Add onions, herbs, salt, pepper, and ½ cup breadcrumbs, mixing 

again with your hands.

Spread remaining breadcrumbs evenly on a plate and have another 

plate ready. Take a half-cup measure and fill it to heaping with the 

halibut mixture. Form mixture into a large patty with your hands, 

pressing so that it keeps its shape. Roll the patty in crumbs and place 

on the empty plate. 

Repeat with the remaining mixture until you have 4 large patties.
Refrigerate patties for 1–2 hours before cooking.

Heat butter and oil in a 10-inch frying pan over medium heat. When 

butter is sizzling, add halibut patties. Cook on each side for about 4

minutes, until burgers are firm and golden.

Serve on homemade sourdough buns with juniper tartar sauce and all 

the trimmings.

Juniper Tartar Sauce

Ingredients:

1/2 teaspoon Juniper Berries

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 heaping tablespoon Pickled capers, finely minced

1 teaspoon caper juice

4 tablespoons Mayonnaise

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Directions
Grind juniper berries with salt in a mortar and pestle. Transfer
to a small bowl. Mince capers finely and add to the bowl. Add
remaining ingredients, mix well, and serve. Makes 1/3 cup

INGREDIENTS

  

• ½ teaspoon juniper berries
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 heaping tablespoon pickled capers, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon caper juice
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

INSTRUCTIONS

 

• Makes about 1/3 cup
• Grind juniper berries with salt in a mortar and pestle. Transfer to a small bowl. Mince capers finely and add to the bowl. Add remaining ingredients, mix well, and serve.

Vegan BLT

                                            

Vegan BLT

Tomatoes in summer. Nothing else needs to be said. As a chef, I relish these hot summer months when gardens are abundant and produce is aplenty. It’s early August here, and tomatoes are at their peak, bursting with flavor and vibrant color. The warmth of the sun has turned them into juicy gems, ready to be harvested and celebrated.

Ingredients:

Tempeh bacon: To make tempeh bacon, you’ll need tempeh, olive oil for searing, salt and pepper for seasoning, and soy sauce and maple syrup for the glaze. If needed, use gluten-free liquid aminos instead. 
Lettuce: I used romaine, but any crisp, fresh lettuce, like iceberg lettuce or little gems, work well. You can use butter lettuce or green leaf lettuce, but they are a bit softer.
Tomato: Use large slicing tomatoes, finding the best ones you can! Extra-juicy late summer tomatoes, like an heirloom variety, are excellent.
Sourdough: This is a great opportunity to dabble in making your own! Here is our beginner’s guide to making sourdough bread. Sourdough gives the sandwich a boost of tangy complexity.
Mayo: Use regular mayonnaise, homemade mayo, or sub vegan 

mayo.
Whole grain mustard: Gives the sandwich a lovely bite. 
Optional additions: Finish with avocado (for a BLAT), microgreens or sprouts, and basil or other herbs. For a brunch-y variation, try topping with a fried egg  for a BLET
Tips:
Use ripe, juicy summer tomatoes. Use homegrown tomatoes or visit your local farmers market!
Salt the tomatoes. This draws out some of the moisture and intensifies the tomato flavor.
Use good bread. Sourdough bread is incredible here- it adds so much flavor- make sure to toast it!
Crisp the bacon. Whatever bacon you decide to go with, make it extra-crispy bacon.
Use a mix of mayo and whole grain mustard for a little kick of flavor.

Heirloom Tomato Sandwich

                                                Heirloom Tomato Sandwich
When tomatoes are at their peak, you can always cut them into thick slices and enjoy them atop apiece of toast—with a drizzle of good olive oil and a generous pinch of flaky sea salt. (You should do this!) But when you really want to make a meal of it, this sandwich will elevate those slices of summer's sweetness into a sandwich of your dreams. Take it outside and enjoy!
Makes up to 4 sandwiches on classic sandwich bread or small sandwich rollsor makes 2 large deli-style sandwiches on larger deli rolls.
Ingredients:
10-12 oz green cabbage, shredded
4 cups packed de-stemmed kale leaves, very finely chopped
1/4 cup Honey-Mustard Vinaigrette (plus more as needed), recipe follows
fine sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
2-4 soft sandwich rolls or ciabatta rolls, cut in half, or 4-8 slices good-quality sourdough or multigrain bread
8-12 oz feta cheese (or nondairy alternative), sliced in 1/4-inch pieces (make sure to buy a block, not crumbled)
1 large avocado, pitted and cut into thin slices
2-3 heirloom tomatoes (depending on their size), cut in 1/4-inch-thick slices
Pickled Onions, recipe follows

Honey-Mustard Vinaigrette

1 tbsp plus 1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup raw honey
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Pickled Onions

1/3 cup apple cider vinegar (or wine vinegar)
1/3 cup water
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 large red onion, sliced to 1/4 inch

Directions:
Toss together the cabbage, kale and ¼ cup of vinaigrette to evenly combine. Season very lightly with salt and pepper, and add more dressing as needed to generously coat the slaw.

If you are using rolls, slice them open. If using sliced sandwich bread, toast it to ensure it can hold up the layers in this sandwich.
Evenly place the feta slices on the bottom half of each sandwich to evenly cover the bread, 2–3 ounces per sandwich.

Add avocado slices, spacing them slightly apart (about¼ of a large avocado per sandwich, or more if you wish). Top with tomato slices (cutting the slices in half if needed to fit the bread), overlapping them in places or stacking them. Give the tomatoes a modest sprinkle of salt.

Place pickled onions evenly over the tomatoes (I suggest being generous). Pile the dressed cabbage and kale slaw over the top. Close the sandwiches and use a serrated knife to carefully and cleanly slice each sandwich in half. Serve immediately or wrap tightly in parchment or other preferred wrap to take these sandwiches on the go.

NOTE: Adjust cuts and the quantities of ingredients for each layer to fit the type of bread that you are using and the number of sandwiches that you are making. Larger, deli-style rolls can accommodate more stacking. If you are using sliced bread, I recommend toasting it.

Honey-Mustard Vinaigrette: Whisk together the mustard, vinegar, honey, oil, salt andpepper in a small bowl or 2-cup liquid measure. Refrigerate,covered, for up to 2 weeks.

Pickled Onions: Combine the vinegar, water, sugar and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves.

Stir in the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2–3 minutes, until the onion just begins to soften.

Add additional water if needed, depending on how large your onion is.
Transfer the onions and liquid to a jar and let stand to cool. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Best Black Bean Burger. Vegan

Best Black Bean Burger

A vegan burger loaded with protein and flavor and so easy to make.
Ingredients
3 cups black beans, cooked, drained and rinsed
⅓ cup medium yellow onion, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 canned chipotle peppers
in adobo sauce, diced
2 Tbsp adobo sauce
1 Tbsp tamari
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup panko
Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
Hamburger buns, for serving
Desired fixings, for serving

Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the beans, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, tamari, vinegar, cumin, salt and pepper. Use a potato masher to mash until the mixture holds together but still has some visible chunks of black beans. Add the egg and use a spatula to fold until combined. Fold in the panko.

Use your hands to form the mixture into 6 patties. The mixture should be cohesive and a little wet. If it’s too wet to handle, refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up or mash the beans a bit more.

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Brush with a little oil and cook the burgers for about 5 minutes per side, until charred on both sides, turning the heat down as necessary. Alternatively, preheat an outdoor grill to 400 F. Lightly brush the patties with olive oil, prepare the grill with cooking spray and grill for 8 minutes on the first side and 4 minutes on the second side. Serve with hamburger buns and desired fixings. Makes 6 servings.

Tip   For a vegan version, instead of the egg use 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2½ Tbsp warm water that has been set aside and thickened for 5 minutes. Increase burger cooking time by 2 minutes, if grilling.

Black Bean Burger ~ Vegan

  

Black Bean Burger  ~  Vegan

Ingredients

2 cups black beans, drained and mashed with a fork.
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

1/4 cup grated onion
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 egg
S&P
Canola oil for grilling pan
1 to 2 Kaiser rolls
Arugula for serving
Mayonnaise for serving
Sliced tomatoes for serving

Directions:
Mix together the beans, breadcrumbs, onions, chili powder, egg and some salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Form the mixture into 1 big (or 2 smaller) patties.

Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and add some canola oil. Cook the burger 4 minutes per side. Serve on a kaiser roll with arugula, tomato slices and mayo.

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 

Chopped Pan Bagnat

                                                       

Chopped Pan Bagnat

All the ingredients of the classic pan bagnat sandwich are chopped up, tossed with a sharp vinaigrette and piled high on crusty rolls. A quick condiment of mayonnaise, cooked egg yolks and basil keeps the bread from getting soggy. 

Ingredients:

Vinaigrette:
1 tbsp (15 mL) Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp (1 mL) finely grated garlic
3 tbsp (15 mL) red wine vinegar
1/4 cup (60 mL) sunflower oil
1/4 cup (60 mL) extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Sandwiches:

4 hardboiled eggs, peeled

6 tbsp (90 mL) mayonnaise

3 tbsp (45 mL) chopped basil

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1/2 cup (125 mL) diced red onion

2 cups (500 mL) chopped romaine hearts

2 cups (500 mL) diced seeded tomato

1 cup (250 mL) chopped radishes

3/4 cup (175 mL) chopped pitted black olives

2 jars (190 g each) Italian tuna in oil, drained

4 submarine rolls, each about 9 inches (23 cm) long

Directions:

For the vinaigrette, whisk Dijon, garlic and vinegar in a medium mixing bowl until combined. Slowly whisk in oils until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 1 week.

For the sandwiches, halve eggs lengthwise. Remove yolks and place in small bowl. Mash yolks with fork and stir in mayo, basil, salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Chop whites and set aside.

To make filling, place onion in a small bowl, cover with cold water and let stand 5 minutes (this will help soften the raw onion flavour). Drain, pat dry with paper towel and place in a large mixing bowl with romaine, tomato, radishes, olives and reserved egg whites. Season with salt and pepper. Add enough vinaigrette to coat lightly, saving rest for another use. Gently mix. Break tuna into flakes, add to bowl and very gently mix to combine.

Split rolls lengthwise and slather both sides with mayo mixture. Divide salad mixture between rolls. Cut in half and serve.  Serves 4 to 6

Pickled Raw Beets

 

Pickled Raw Beets

Slicing beets super thin and letting them soften in salt before packing in a spiced brine is a quick way to create a condiment that’s great for amping up a cheese plate, salad or sandwich.

TIP
Use those beautiful beet greens! Wash well, chop the stems and sauté in a little olive oil, garlic and spice (if desired) until tender. Add chopped leaves and cook until wilted. Or use the raw chopped leaves in a hearty salad.

Cedar Plank Burgers

 

Cedar Plank Burgers by Bobby Flay

Level: Intermediate
Total: 3 hr 35 min. Inactive: 2 hr Cook time 55 min Yield: 4 servings

Bobby Flay says, "This recipe proves that cedar plank cooking is not just for salmon anymore. Cooking burgers over cedar planks creates amazing flavor, infusing every bite with smoky complexity. This is a fun and creative way to serve hamburgers at your next outdoor barbecue."
Ingredients
Grilled Mushrooms and Onions:
4 portobello mushrooms, stems removed
4 shiitake mushrooms, stems removed
2 Walla Walla onions, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch slices
Canola oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Burgers:

2 untreated cedar planks, each about 5 by 12 inches, soaked in water to cover for at least 2 hours (available at hardware stores)
1 1/2 pounds ground chuck (80-percent lean)
1 cup Red Wine Barbeque Sauce, recipe follows

8 slices good-quality aged white Cheddar
4 hamburger buns, split and lightly toasted on the grill
Red Wine Barbecue Sauce:
1 1/4 cups ketchup
2 tablespoons ancho chile powder
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons molasses
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 heaping tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon chile de arbol or cayenne powder
1 canned chipotle chile in adobo, chopped
2 cups dry red wine, such as pinot noir

Directions:
For the grilled mushrooms and onions: 

Prepare a charcoal grill for direct and indirect heat. Brush the portobello mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms and onions with oil on both sides and season with salt and pepper. Grill over direct heat on both sides until slightly charred and just cooked through, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Reserve for the burgers.

For the burgers: 

Remove the planks from the water and place them over direct heat for about 2 minutes per side. Remove the planks from the grill and brush the top side with oil.

Divide the meat into 4 equal portions (about 6 ounces each). Form each portion loosely into a 3/4-inch-thick burger and make a deep depression in the center with your thumb. Brush with canola oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Put the burgers on the grill over direct heat and cook until nicely charred, about 3 minutes. Flip and cook until the second side is charred, about 3 minutes. Place 2 burgers on each cedar plank. Put the planks over indirect heat, brush each burger with 1 tablespoon Red Wine Barbeque Sauce and top each with 2 slices of cheese. Cover the grill to melt the cheese and finish cooking, about 5 minutes.

Put the burgers on the bottom buns and top each with more barbeque sauce, some mushroom caps, some grilled onions and the top bun. Serve immediately.

Red Wine Barbecue Sauce:

Combine the ketchup, 1 cup water, ancho chile powder, honey, molasses, sugar, mustard, paprika, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chile de arbol, and chipotle chile in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, bring the wine to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until reduced to 1 cup, about 20 minutes. Stir the reduced wine into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Pour into a bowl and allow to cool at room temperature. (The sauce will keep for 1 week in the refrigerator stored in a tightly sealed container.)

The 3 X 2 Smash Burger

                                    The 3 X 2 Smash Burger
 The best burger? Everyone has thoughts. Thick, thin, rare, well-done, lots of toppings, barely any. What can’t be argued? That said, the smash burger is here to stay. As dangerously close (in the best way) to a salty meat pudding as any sandwich ought to be, a smash burger owes its ultra-beefy flavour to ground meat cooked over high heat in its own fat. Inspired by the Four Guys Burger at Gold Standard in Toronto and the Animal Style burger at California’s In-N-Out Burger, this three-patty, two-cheese babe is as local as your own kitchen. Marmite, an MSG-laden (again, in the best way!) yeast extract, is available at most large grocers. See TIP below for customizing your burgers.  Serves 2 

Ingredients:
Burger Sauce
3 tbsp (45 mL) mayonnaise
1 tbsp (15 mL) ketchup
1 tbsp (15 mL) sweet pickle relish
1/2 tsp (2 mL) Marmite Pinch cayenne

2 tbsp (30 mL) neutral-flavoured oil
2 medium-size onions, halved and thinly sliced
Salt
12 oz (340 g) medium ground beef
Freshly ground black pepper
2 very soft, small potato or brioche burger buns
1 cup (250 mL) loosely packed shredded iceberg lettuce
Yellow mustard, about 3 tbsp (45 mL), divided
4 thin processed cheese slices
1 medium-size dill pickle, preferably Vlasic, sliced into
1/4‑inch (5-mm) thick coins
2 slices cooked bacon, halved lengthwise (option

Directions
For the Burger Sauce, place all ingredients in a small bowl and stir to combine—the Marmite will take some coaxing to dissolve.  Cover and refrigerate for up to a week.

To caramelize the onions, add oil to a 10- or 12-inch (25- or 30-cm) cast-iron skillet set over medium heat. Once shimmering, add onions and 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt. Spread out into an even layer and cook until light golden, about 3 minutes. Stir and repeat process twice more. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring from time to time, 30 to 35 minutes longer or until deeply caramelized.

Meanwhile, divide cold ground beef into six equal portions. Working on a parchment-lined baking sheet, pat each out into a large flat patty 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Scrape onions out into a heatproof bowl; set aside. Return pan to heat, place buns cut side down in pan and toast until golden at edges, 30 seconds or so.

Divide Burger Sauce between top and bottom buns. Divide lettuce between bottoms.

Clean pan; set over high heat. Turn kitchen fan to high. Once pan is smoking, add 3 patties. Press each lightly with a large offset spatula to make contact with pan. Cook 1 minute.

Meanwhile, squirt a heaping teaspoon of mustard onto uncooked side of each patty and spread to edges. Flip and immediately top two patties with a slice of cheese and one quarter of the onions. Cook 45 seconds total then stack the patties with the undressed one on top.

Set onto bottom bun, top stack with half the pickle slices, half the bacon, if using, and the top bun.

Serve right away and repeat process to make a second burger.  Serves 2

TIP You can make and stack as many patties as you like, even change the ratio of meat to cheese (for instance, a double burger with 2 cheese slices) or leave the cheese out altogether. Each patty requires 2 oz (55 g) ground beef; if you don’t have a scale, visit a meat counter where you can ask for a very specific weight of beef, then divide by eye at home.

Stuffed Ham And Swiss Breakfast Casserole

Stuffed Ham And Swiss Breakfast Casserole

French toast meets breakfast sandwich in this ooey gooey ham-and-Swiss breakfast casserole. The mini croissants add buttery richness that is balanced with a bite of sharp Dijon mustard and Swiss cheese.
You can get creative and mix up the croissant fillings. Substitute sausage for the ham and American or Cheddar cheeses for the Swiss. The base of the savory breakfast casserole adapts well to the filling changes.

This ham-and-cheese casserole is a full meal, but to round out the plate, offer up a fruit salad. Or if this is a brunch main, an orange-studded salad with a poppy seed dressing would be a great option.

Already the ultimate make-ahead meal, you can freeze this breakfast and keep it on hand for busy weeks or weekends when you have company over. Just complete this dish through step 3, then cover it with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Pop it in the freezer. When you're 
ready to serve it, move it to the fridge, and let it thaw overnight. Warm at room temperature for 30 minutes before putting in the oven.
Ingredients
10 (1 1/4-oz.)deli smoked ham slices (1/4 inch thick)
10 mini croissants
10 (1/2-oz.) Swiss cheese slices
6 large eggs
2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
Thyme sprigs

Directions:

Microwave ham slices between paper towels on a microwavable plate on HIGH 45 seconds. Blot with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Split croissants open with a serrated knife. Top bottom half of each croissant with 1 ham slice and 1 Swiss cheese slice (folding ham and cheese to fit, if needed). Cover with top half of croissant. Place stuffed croissants in a lightly greased (with cooking spray) 13- x 9-inch baking dish.

Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard in a large bowl. Pour mixture slowly over stuffed croissants. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove plastic wrap; bake in preheated oven until golden brown and knife inserted in center comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes, covering with aluminum foil the last 15 minutes to prevent overbrowning. Garnish with thyme sprigs.

 

Thyme-Crusted Pork, Honeyed Apple & Taleggio Sandwich

 Thyme-Crusted Pork, Honeyed 

Apple & Taleggio Sandwich

Taleggio cheese has a gorgeous fruitiness that works beautifully with apples. There’s no need to remove the rind as it is edible. If you feel the need to add greens to this decadent sandwich, peppery baby arugula fits the bill.

Ingredients:

Pork 

1 lb (500 g) pork tenderloin, silver skin removed 
¼ cup (60 mL) chopped thyme 
2 tbsp (30 mL) Dijon mustard 
Salt and freshly ground pepper 
2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil 
Apples 
2 small McIntosh apples 
1 tbsp (15 mL) butter 
1 tsp (5 mL) honey 
4 brioche buns, halved crosswise and toasted 
Honey mustard 
8 oz (250 g) Taleggio, sliced 

Directions:

For pork, dry tenderloin with paper towel. In a small bowl combine thyme, Dijon, salt and pepper. Rub pork with mustard mixture. Remove to a plate and refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour to allow coating to dry. 

When ready to cook, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). 

Heat oil over medium heat in a large ovenproof nonstick skillet and brown tenderloin on all sides, about 6 minutes total. Place pan in oven and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until pork is just pink inside. Remove to a cutting board and tent with foil until ready to assemble sandwiches. 

For apples, trim top and bottom and slice each through the centre into 4 thick slices. Using a small spoon scoop out core and discard. Heat butter and honey in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry apple slices 3 minutes per side, or until golden and soft. 

To assemble, slice pork on the diagonal into ½-inch-thick (1-cm) slices. Spread bottom buns with a small amount of honey mustard and divide pork between them. Top each with an equal amount of cheese, and 2 apple slices. Place remaining bun halves on top. 

Makes 4 

Best Egg Salad Skip The Mayo, Bring On The Beans

Best Egg Salad

3 hard boiled eggs

1 can white beans
1 or 2 cloves garlic finely grated

2 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
1 Tablespoon capers chopped
Bunch tender chopped herbs
Squeeze lemon juice
Drizzle olive oil
Cracked black pepper
Sea salt

Radishes sliced thin
Peppery arugula

Directions:

Chop or Dice the boiled eggs.  Drain the can of beans. Place in blender and smooth to a paste. chopped herbs, squeeze of lemon juice,  Add the garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, squeeze lemon juice,, Stir to mix well. Add chopped herbs, cracked pepper, sea salt,  Spread on toasted bread or crackers,: garnish with radishes, arugula, and drizzle of olive oil. 

Classic Egg Salad

Classic Egg Salad

Ingredients:

6 large eggs
1/4 cup quality mayonnaise
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1-1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice or white wine

   vinegar
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon sugar

1/4 cup finely diced celery, from 1 stalk

3 tablespoons finely sliced scallions, from 2 to 3 

   scallions

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions:
Place the eggs in a saucepan in a single layer, and fill the pan with enough cold water so that it covers the eggs by about an inch. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then remove the pan from the heat, cover, and let stand for 10 minutes.

Carefully pour out the hot water; place the pan in the sink and run cold water over the eggs until the pan is lukewarm, 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and refill with cold water; let stand until the eggs are room temperature, about 10 minutes. Gently crack the eggs all over and peel under running water. Dry the eggs, then chop into 1/4-inch pieces.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar. Add the chopped eggs, celery, scallions, and parsley. Using a rubber spatula, fold to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Serve or refrigerate until ready to use. 

(If you refrigerate the egg salad, be sure to taste it again before serving and adjust the seasoning; I find the flavors mellow out a bit after some time in the fridge.)

Make Ahead: The eggs can be cooked, peeled, and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator 3 days ahead. If you keep the eggs in their shell, they can last for up to a week. The egg salad will keep well in a covered container in the fridge for about 3 days.
Tip: When peeling an egg, start at the wider end -- there's usually a small air pocket in there.

Servings: Makes 2-1/2 cups, or enough for 4 sandwiches