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.

Hearty Lentil Chili. ~. Vegetarian

 

     

Hearty Chili  ~  Vegetarian

This hearty lentil chili is packed with smoky, savory spices, carrots, and bell peppers for rich flavor, satisfying texture, and a nourishing boost of protein. Made with chorizo (easily vegan-adaptable), it can be cooked on the stovetop and ready in about 45 minutes, or prepared in the slow cooker (crockpot) for an easy, hands-off meal.

Like most soups and stews, this lentil chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld. It's a perfect make-ahead chili recipe for healthy, comforting meals you can enjoy all week long.

Best Cornbread recipe will post 3/21/2026

Ingredients:

1/2 onion, chopped
2–3 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 pound ground meat or chorizo (or use plant-based “ground meat”, turkey, beef, or chicken)
2/3 cups dried brown lentils (8 ounces)
1/3 cup dried split red lentils (or sub more brown lentils, but red makes the chili thicker)
1 carrots, sliced into half rounds, about 3/4 cups
7 1/2 oz can diced tomatoes, with juices
1/4– 1/2 jalapeno, diced (seeds removed)
3/4 teaspoons salt (adjust salt to taste)
1/2 teaspoons ancho chile powder (or sub Mexican chile powder)
1/2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 cinnamon sticks
1/2 tablespoons molasses (or maple syrup or honey)
3 cups broth or stock (veggie, chicken or beef)
1/2 bell pepper, green or colored, chopped
1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional, add to taste)

Directions:

Sauté onion in a pan over medium high heat with oil for 3 minutes until it starts to soften. Add garlic stirring in and add chorizo, sauté for 5 minutes. 

Add lentils, carrots, tomatoes, jalapeño, salt, ancho powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and cumin. Mix together.

Add broth, molasses and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, turn down to a simmer with a vented lid for 30 minutes. 

Add green pepper and simmer 15 minutes more, uncovering it to cook off the liquid. 

Stir in the apple cider vinegar, then adjust the seasonings if needed.

Serve in bowls with sour cream, shredded cheese or avocado and cilantro.

Storage: 

Leftover Lentil Chili will keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or can be frozen for 3 months.

The Lentil Chili will have a thicker consistency when slow-cooked in the crockpot.

Slow Cooker Instructions: 

In a skillet, sauté onion in a pan over medium-high heat with oil for 3 minutes until it starts to soften. Add garlic, stirring in, and add chorizo, sauté for 5 minutes.

Add the chorizo mixture into the crockpot along with the lentils, carrots, tomatoes, jalapeño, salt, ancho powder, oregano, smoked paprika cumin broth, molasses and cinnamon sticks.

With the lid on, cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours. Add in the green peppers in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Stir in the apple cider vinegar and adjust seasonings if needed.

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.

Cuban Black Bean Soup

Cuban Black Bean Soup

A delicious Cuban Black Bean Soup recipe can be made in an Instant Pot with dry beans or on your stovetop. Vegan and delicious! See notes for the stovetop version or canned beans.
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 onions diced
2 bell peppers diced (red and yellow are best)
1 ancho chili
6 garlic cloves
2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons oregano
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/8 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chipotle (optional)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
4 cups veggie or chicken stock or broth
2 cups water
1 lb. dried black beans, unsoaked, see notes

1 teaspoon honey or sugar
Squeeze of lime

Optional Garnishes

 Thinly sliced red onion (or scallions)

cilantro

avocado

sour cream, or vegan sour cream, 

toasted coconut

tortilla chips

roasted sweet potato chips or plantain chips

sliced fresh chilis

orange zest
Pick something crunchy, Creamy and green.
Directions Insta Pot:
Heat oil on the "sauté" function of your Insta Pot.  Add the onions, peppers, garlic, and salt.  Sauté 10 -12 minutes, until very soft.  Take your time here.

Add oregano, bay leaves, cumin, smoked paprika, and tomato paste.  Sauté for 1 minute.  

Add vegetable broth and water*, scraping up any browned bits.  If you are using soaked beans leave out the water. 

Add the dry unsoaked beans, give a stir and set Insta Pot on high pressure for 30 minutes.

Vegan Beet Rueben

                                                        

Vegan Beet Reuben

Roasted, sliced and spiced beets stand in for corned beef in this delicious meat- and dairy-free take on the classic Reuben. Vegan mayo has become much easier to find—Hellemans version is excellent—as has plant-based “cheese.” Of course, if you’re not vegan, you could use regular mayo and real Swiss cheese.   Serves 4
Ingredients:
Dressing
1/2 cup (125 mL) vegan mayonnaise
1/4 cup (60 mL) finely chopped bread-and-butter pickles
2 tbsp (30 mL) ketchup
2 tsp (10 mL) fresh lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Sandwiches
2 large beets, about 1 lb (455 g) total
1 tbsp (15 mL) canola oil, plus more for brushing
1/2 tsp (2 mL) smoked paprika
1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground coriander
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1 cup (250 mL) sauerkraut
8 slices pumpernickel or rye bread
8 slices plant-based Swiss “cheese”

Directions:
For the dressing, mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Transfer to an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 week.

For the sandwiches, preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).

Lay out a rectangle of foil big enough to wrap beets. Place beets in middle. Drizzle with oil. Gather ends and seal tightly. Place on a baking dish. Bake until a paring knife inserted in centres meets with just a little resistance, about 1 1/2 hours. Remove from oven and carefully open foil to cool.

When beets are cool enough to handle, peel, trim and slice on a mandoline about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Lay slices out on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with paprika, coriander, salt and pepper. Set aside.

Drain sauerkraut in a sieve placed over a bowl, pressing with back of a spoon to extract maximum brine. Blot dry with paper towel. Set aside.

Lightly brush bread slices on one side with oil and divide between two baking sheets, oil side down. Top each slice with a generous smear of dressing. Top four bread slices with four slices of Swiss, trimming to fit. Divide beets and sauerkraut evenly over Swiss. Top with remaining four slices of Swiss, trimming to fit. Place remaining four bread slices on top, oil side up.

Place two large nonstick frying pans over medium heat. Cook sandwiches until nicely browned and heated through, 4 to 5 minutes per side. (You will need to use a second spatula or a pair of tongs to hold each sandwich together while flipping it. The plant-based “cheese” may not melt, but it will still be warm and soft.) Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately. Serves 4

Ham And Cheese Gougeres

Ham and Cheese Gougères

This flavourful Spanish spin on classic French gougères is especially light and airy due to an extra egg white. They’re best served straight from the oven, but you can bake them a few hours ahead and rewarm if needed. You could also freeze the piped batter right on the cookie sheet and bake straight from frozen—just give them a few extra minutes of baking time.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup (125 mL) all-purpose flour
1 tsp (5 mL) ground mustard
1/2 tsp (2 mL) smoked paprika
1/4 tsp (1 mL) freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup (125 mL) water
1/4 cup (60 mL) unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces
1/2 tsp (2 mL) Diamond Crystal kosher salt or 1/4 tsp (1 mL) fine sea 

   salt
1/4 tsp (1 mL) sugar
2 large eggs, beaten
1 large egg white, beaten
1 cup (250 mL) grated Manchego cheese
1/3 cup (80 mL) finely diced serrano ham
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Mix flour, mustard, paprika and pepper in a small bowl with a fork until uniform. Set aside.

Combine water, butter, salt and sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and reduce burner to medium-low. Add flour mixture and stir until smooth. Return pan to heat and cook, stirring constantly, until dough has dried out slightly, about 2 minutes. Transfer dough to bowl of a stand mixer fitted with paddle. Mix on low until slightly cooled, about 1 minute. Raise speed to medium and add eggs and egg white, a little at a time, scraping down sides of bowl as needed, until you have a smooth, shiny batter with a thick ribbon-like consistency. Add cheese and ham, and mix until just incorporated. Transfer batter to a large piping bag fitted with a 1/2-inch (1-cm) round tip.

Pipe 1-inch- (2.5-cm-) round, tall mounds on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Use a wet finger to smooth out any points—you should get 26 to 28 in total.

Bake, one sheet at a time, until outsides of gougères are golden, dry and crisp, 20 to 22 minutes. Serve immediately, or transfer to a baking rack to cool.  Serves 6 to 8

Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner

      

Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner

A favorite go-tos for weeknights is any kind of meal where we can put everything on a sheet pan and roast it in the oven! 

Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1-2 TB. olive oil (they use extra virgin)
1 bag (1 lb.) Yukon Gold fingerling potatoes
1 package (1 lb.) cauliflower florets (we used half cauliflower half green beans)
1/2-1 tsp. Penzy Spice "Mural of Flavor", to taste
2 tsp. Penzy Spice "Smoked Spanish Style Paprika
1/4-1 tsp. Penzy Spice "Granulated Garlic Powder", to taste
1/4-1 tsp. salt, to taste
1/4-1 tsp. freshly ground pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425°. 

Brush chicken thighs on both sides with olive oil and place in the center of your sheet pan with a little space in between so that they brown on the edges. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, mural of flavor,  garlic powder, salt and pepper. 

Cut fingerling potatoes in half length-wise and put in a large zip-top plastic bag with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste. Shake until well coated with the olive oil and spices then arrange on the sheet pan, spread out around the chicken thighs. 

Put sheet pan in the oven and roast for 10 minutes while you prep the cauliflower florets. You can use the same plastic bag for the cauliflower florets with another 2 teaspoons of olive oil, salt and pepper, unless you don't want smoked paprika to flavor everything, otherwise use a different plastic bag. We happen to love it because everything it touches has a different flavor! 

After 10 minutes, carefully pull out oven rack and spoon the cauliflower florets around the chicken thighs with the potatoes. Roast another 15-20 minutes or until potatoes and cauliflower are a little browned and crispy on the outside and chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°.
Prep. time: 10 minutes  Cooking time: 30 minutes   Serves: 2-4

Cooks Notes
You can substitute fresh Brussels sprouts, whole green beans, or asparagus for the cauliflower. Just use a fresh bag, 2 teaspoons of olive oil, salt and pepper, and herbs of your choice. We love to use about 1 teaspoon dill weed for the green beans!

Brandy Rose Cocktail ~ Vegan Tahini And Eggplant "Bacon" Dip

                                         

Brandy Rose Cocktail  Vegan Tahini 

And Eggplant "Bacon" Dip

A Jack Rose cocktail is traditionally made with American apple brandy. This flexible recipe is lovely with grape brandy, or even premium Cognac, and stays chilled and looks dramatic poured over colorful flavored ice.   Try this drink at cocktail hour alongside our creamy vegan Tahini and Eggplant “Bacon” Dip, garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds.  Dip recipe follows. 

Ingredients:
8 oz or more of pomegranate-blend juice (such as cranberry-pomegranate) for colored ice (optional)

3 oz brandy
2 oz fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 oz grenadine 
Lemon twists for garnish

Directions:

1. For flavoured ice, at least 1 day before serving, pour juice into moulds and freeze overnight, or until solid. 

2. When ready to serve, fill a cocktail shaker with plain ice cubes then add brandy, lemon juice and grenadine, and shake for up to 30 seconds, or until the shaker is icy-cold. 

3. For each drink, pour half of the mixture through a fine cocktail sieve or wire strainer into a coupe glass. Or, if using flavoured ice, place ice in the bottom of two coupe or rocks glasses and pour half of mixture through a fine cocktail sieve or metal strainer into each glass. 

4. Garnish each drink with a lemon twist and serve.  Makes 2 drinks

Tahini And Eggplant "Bacon" Dip

This Middle Eastern plant-based dip gives the smoky flavour and crunch of bacon but in a creamy, satisfying vegan dip. Top with parsley and pomegranate seeds for a fresh, light holiday garnish. Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients:
Eggplant Bacon
½ medium-size eggplant
2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil
2 tbsp (30 mL) tamari
1 tbsp (15 mL) Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp (30 mL) maple syrup
1 tbsp (15 mL) liquid smoke
1 tsp (5 mL) smoked paprika
½ tsp (2 mL) fresh ground pepper
DIP
½ cup (125 mL) tahini (sesame paste)
½ tsp (2 mL) ground cumin
Juice of 1 lemon
1 garlic clove, fi nely minced
¾ cup (175 mL) water
3 tbsp (45 mL) olive oil
½ tsp (2 mL) salt
½ tsp (2 mL) freshly ground pepper
1 tbsp (15 mL) Italian flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
Garnish
2 tbsp (30 mL) pomegranate seeds
1 tbsp (15 mL) Italian flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

Directions: 
1 For eggplant bacon, preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2 Cut eggplant in half again lengthwise. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice eggplant into very thin strips, about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick. Place in a single layer on baking sheet.

3 In a bowl, whisk together remaining ingredients to make sauce. Brush each side of eggplant with a generous amount of sauce. Bake in oven for 30 to 40 minutes until eggplant is dark brown and crisp.

4 Remove from oven and cool slightly. Finely chop eggplant bacon and set aside.

5 For dip, add all ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk together until creamy. Mix in finely chopped eggplant bacon, reserving 1 tbsp (15 mL) for garnish. Refrigerate dip for at least 30 mins.

6 When ready to serve, garnish dip with the reserved 1 tbsp (15 mL) of eggplant bacon, pomegranate seeds and parsley. Serve alongside Crispy Baked Root Vegetable Skins (recipe below). 

Serves 4 to 6


Crispy Baked Root Vegetable SkinsNot only are root vegetable skins filled with nutrition, they save on food waste. These skins are absolutely delicious when lightly seasoned and baked. Every time you peel carrots, beets, parsnips, sweet potatoes or ginger, use a sharp peeler to peel wide pieces and place peels in a bowl stored in the refrigerator. These peels can be stored for up to 5 days with the exception of the russet potato peels, as they turn brown in color and should be used right away.
Ingredients:
Skin of 2 large red beets
Skin of 3 large parsnips
Skins of 3 large carrots|
Skin of 3 large sweet potatoes
Skin of 3 large russet potatoes
Skin of 1 large ginger root
2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil
½ tsp (2 mL) sea salt
½ tsp (2 mL) freshly ground pepper

Directions:
1 Using a sharp vegetable peeler, peel root vegetable skins into wide pieces.

2 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

3 In a large bowl, toss vegetable skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread evenly on baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until skins are crispy, occasionally checking and tossing for even crispiness.

4 Serve warm or at room temperature with dip.  Serves 4 to 6

Grand Vegan Paella

Grand Vegan Paella

A vegan take on Spain’s regal rice dish, this fragrant paella will bring the same wow factor to the table as any holiday roast. It requires a proper paella pan, but it will feel like a wise investment after the first bite. If you can’t find Spanish bomba rice—it’s worth seeking out—use arborio rice instead and reduce the vegetable stock to 5 cups (1.25 mL).6 cups (1.5 L) vegetable stock, preferably homemade.

Ingredients:
Large Pinch of Saffron
1/4 cup (60 mL) extra virgin olive oil
2 onions, finely chopped
1 red pepper, finely chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp (10 mL) chopped thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons tomato paste
S&P to taste
2 cups bomba rice 1/4 cup (60 mL) extra virgin olive oil
1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise, sliced 1/2 inch (1 cm) thick
6 oz (170 g) green or runner beans, cut into 2-inch (5-cm) lengths
1 cup (250 mL) cooked white kidney beans
4 jarred piquillo peppers, drained, dried, cut into strips, at room temperature
4 canned artichoke hearts, drained, dried, quartered, at room temperature
1 tbsp (15 mL) chopped flat-leaf parsley
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Place stock and saffron in a medium saucepan over low heat. Season 
with salt.

In a 14- to 16-inch (35- to 40-cm) paella pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and red pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly brown, about 20 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add thyme and spices. Cook 1 minute. Add tomato paste. Cook, stirring constantly, 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Stir in rice to coat evenly in onion mixture then stir in zucchini, green beans and kidney beans. Pour in the stock. Raise heat to medium-high and turn burner closest to pan on medium-high as well. Carefully slide pan to be on both burners. When it comes to a boil, move the pan around occasionally to cook evenly. Do not stir, but occasionally move zucchini and green beans around with tongs so they are evenly distributed. When liquid is at the level of rice, after 7 to 8 minutes, carefully transfer the pan to the middle rack of the oven. Bake until liquid has been absorbed, 15 to 17 minutes.

Remove pan from oven and arrange piquillo peppers and artichokes overtop. Cover with foil and let stand 5 minutes. Remove foil. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve with lemon wedges. Serves 6 to 8                       

Vegan Red Beans And Rice ~ Instant Pot

    

Vegan Red Beans and Rice ~ Instant Pot

Ingredients:
1/4 cup vegetable oil
one large yellow onion, chopped
Kosher salt and black pepper
3 celery stalks, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
10 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 heaping tablespoon white or yelloe Tofu paste

2 teaspoons smoked paprka

1 teaspoon sweet paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder 

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground cayenne, plus more to taste

1/2 teaspoon ground sage, optional

1 pound dried red kidney beans (no need to soak)

3 dried bay leaves

3 fresh thyme sprigs or 1 teaspoons dried thyme

1 teaspoon soy sauce

Cooked rice for serving

Sliced scallions

Louisiana-style hot sauce, for serving

Directions:
Use the saute setting on the electric pressure (Insta-Pot) cooker and heat the oil. Add the onion, season with salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until limp and translucent, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add the celery and bell pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5 to 8 minutes.  Add the chopped garlic and miso paste, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, and sage (if using).  Grind in a generous amount of pepper and add 3/4 teaspoon salt.  Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then tuen off  t the saute setting.

Add the beans, bay leaves, thyme, and 5 1/2 cups water.  Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any brown bits,  Cook on high pressure until the beans are creamy, 50 minutes to 1 hour.

Turn off the pressure cooker and allow the pressure to reduce naturally for 10 minutes, then reduce the remaining pressure manually and open the lid.  Add the soy sauce and season to taste with salt and cayenne.  Using a fork mash some of the beans against the side of the pressure cooker to make the mixture creamy.  It will continue to thicken as it sits, or you can turn on the saute setting and let the mixture bubble for a few minutes to thicken.  Discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.  Top the beans with hot cooked rice and scallions, serve with the hot sauce.

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Bharta

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Bharta 

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons oil 30 ml
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1 large red onion chopped
6 large garlic cloves chopped
1.5 inch ginger chopped
1 green chili chopped, or more to taste
2 large tomatoes chopped
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garam masala
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
3/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
1/2 teaspoon sugar optional
2 lb diced butter nut squash around 5 cups diced suqash
1/3-1/2 cup water
2-3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Directions:
Press the saute button on the Instant Pot. When it displays hot, add the oil and then add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them pop.
Then add the onion, garlic, ginger and green chili. Saute 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the chopped tomatoes, stir and deglaze the pot. There shouldn't be any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Add the coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala, smoked paprika, salt and sugar. Mix until combined.

Add the butternut squash and water (1/3 to 1/2 cup, squash releases a lot of water when pressure cooked).

Close the pot with its lid. Press the manual or pressure cook button and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes and then do a quick release.

Open the pot, press saute and then mash the cooked squash with a potato masher. You may also use a fork.

Cover the pot with a glass lid and let it simmer on saute mode for 7 to 10 minutes until the excess water evaporates and bharta becomes little dry. 

Note: it splutters, so best to cover the pot with a glass lid when it's simmering on saute.

The bharta will thicken more as it cools down. Add cilantro.Garnish with more cilantro and serve butternut squash bharta with roti, paratha or rice.

Oven Instructions
To make this using the oven and stove-top, pre-heat oven to 425 F degrees. Drizzle the squash cubes with oil and roast at 425 F for 25 to 30 minutes or until very soft. Remove from oven. 

Heat oil in a pot on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them pop and then add the onion, garlic, ginger and green chili. Saute for 2 to 3 minutes until onions soften. Then add the tomatoes and cook for 4 to 5 minutes. Add the spices, salt and sugar and stir for 30 seconds.

Add the roasted squash and mash with a potato masher. Do not add any water. Stir and let it simmer for 5 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring often. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

Vegetarian Burgers Black Bean Mushroom Lentil Burgers

Vegetarian Burgers   Black Bean Mushroom Lentil Burgers

These vegetarian burgers stand up on the grill like any of their meaty counterparts. Puréeing the black beans gives the burgers binding power while keeping the lentils and vegetable chunky provides a wonderful balance of textures. If you have any patties left over, they will pair nicely with a crisp green salad.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
2 cups (500 mL) thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms, about 100 g
1/2 cup (125 mL) finely diced red bell pepper, about 1/2 pepper
1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt, divided
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 can (450 mL) black beans, drained, rinsed and patted dry
1 large egg
1 tsp (5 mL) chilli powder
1 tsp (5 mL) smoked paprika
3/4 cup (175 mL) canned lentils, drained, rinsed and patted dry
3/4 cup (175 mL) bread crumbs

TO ASSEMBLE
Gruyère cheese, thinly sliced
4 whole wheat burger buns
Mayonnaise
Yellow mustard
Baby arugula
Smashed avocado
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large frying pan set over medium heat. Add shiitake mushrooms, red bell pepper and 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt. Cook, stirring often, until vegetables are tender and lightly golden, 7 to 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Scrape mixture into a bowl and set aside to cool completely for about 20 minutes.

2. To a food processor, add black beans. Whirl until the mixture is as smooth as possible (some lumps will remain). Add egg, chilli powder smoked paprika and remaining 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt. Continue to whirl until fully combined, scraping down sides of the bowl as needed. Add cooled vegetables and lentils. Lightly pulse just until combined, about 5 pulses. The mixture should remain rough.

3. Scrape the mixture into a large bowl along with bread crumbs. Gently mix until combined and shape into 4 equal-sized burgers, about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick (see TIP).

4. Cook burgers over a high grill for 5 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the burgers are heated through. Arrange Gruyère slices over burgers for the last 2 minutes of cooking to melt.

5. Toast buns on the grill, if desired. Smear bottoms of buns with mayonnaise and yellow mustard; top each one with arugula, 1 burger and avocado. Season with salt and fresh pepper. Serve immediately.

Serves 4

TIP Burgers can be made up to 1 day in advance, covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated.

 

Spicy Sausage, Pepper, And Feta Cakes With Maple-Mustard Cream

Spicy Sausage, Pepper & Feta Cakes 

With Maple-Mustard Cream

Hot sausage and mustard never looked so good! Cute Spicy Sausage, Pepper & Feta Cakes can be made ahead, and the Maple-Mustard Cream dip just needs a stir!  Great Breakfast Treat!

These three-bite cuties let the spicy sausage and creamy feta flavours shine through. Smoked paprika in the batter assures a hot, tingling vibe. They’re good keepers too, so make ahead as you like. Dress up with a swirl of sour cream and sliced green onions, slivered red pepper or a hot pepper relish. For the dippers in your group, add our easy Maple-Mustard Cream (recipe follows).

Ingredients:
7 oz (200 g) hot Italian sausage, about 2 large sausages
Canola oil for skillet and frying
4 oz (115 g) Greek feta (see TIP)
1/2 cup (125 mL) finely chopped red pepper
1/4 cup (60 mL) thinly sliced green onion, green parts only
2 eggs
1/2 cup (125 mL) milk
1 cup (250 mL) all-purpose flour
1 tsp (5 mL) smoked paprika
1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt

Directions

Remove casings from sausages and place sausage meat in an oiled skillet. Flatten to about 1/4-inch (5-mm) thickness. Place over medium heat. Cook until no trace of pink remains about 2 minutes a side. You do not want to brown and toughen it. 

Remove to a chopping board. Finely chop into about 1/4-inch (5-mm) dice. It should measure about 1 cup (250 mL). Place in a large bowl.

Crumble the feta into pea-size pieces. It should measure about 1 cup (250 mL). Add to sausage, along with red pepper and onion, and toss to evenly distribute. 

In a medium-size bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In another bowl, stir flour with paprika and salt. Gradually whisk flour mixture into egg mixture just until no large lumps remain. Pour over the sausage mixture and stir with a spatula until mixed. 

Generously oil a medium-size skillet and place it over medium heat. When hot, scoop up 1 rounded tbsp (25 mL) of batter. Drop into hot oil and gently spread to form a cake about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. Don’t flatten. Repeat with 3 more cakes. Cook until underside is golden brown, 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 minutes a side. Turn using a firm spatula. Remove to a baking sheet or platter, and keep warm. Repeat with remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan when needed. Stir remaining batter from time to time.

Serve right away or refrigerate, covered, for up to 2 days. Serve at room temperature, or warm cold cakes in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5 minutes.    Makes 24 mini cakes

Maple-Mustard Cream
Blend 1 tbsp (15 mL) Dijon mustard with 1 tbsp (15 mL) maple syrup or honey. Whisk in 1/2 cup (125 mL) sour cream. If making ahead, refrigerate, covered, for up to 2 days.

TIP Do not buy crumbled feta for this recipe. It’s best to purchase a piece of creamy Greek feta and crumble it yourself.

Summer Tomato Risotto With Saffron

A summery Tomato Risotto highlighting juicy, sweet, vine-ripened tomatoes, and infused with saffron.  Serve this as a vegetarian main, seasonal side dish, or top it off with smoky,  pan-seared shrimp. Vegetarian-adaptable!

Ingredients:
summer tomatoes!
onion
garlic
veggie stock
Arborio rice
saffron
salt & pepper
smoked paprika
a little pat of butter
parmesan

Directions:

While the tomatoes soften and blister in a skillet, start the risotto by sauteing the onion until golden and tender. Add the garlic.

Add the arborio rice or short-grain rice.  Sauté until the rice becomes translucent, approximately 1 or 2 minutes.

Add enough warm broth or stock to cover the rice, about 2 cups, along with a pinch of saffron.  If your saffron is deep and red, it will only take a pinch. If it is lighter in color- like orange or yellow, it may take a couple of pinches. Crush it in your fingers before adding.

Then add the warm stock a cup at a time, stirring frequently, letting the rice absorb it, before adding any more.

Be patient here, this will take 20-25 minutes.

At the same time, chop up your cooled, blistered tomatoes and add these along with all their flavorful juices into to the risotto pot.

Keep adding stock a cup at a time, letting the rice absorb it, each time.  I used about 6 3/4 cups of veggie stock here, but depending on heat level and the type of rice, it may take more or less.

Keep adding stock a cup at a time, letting the rice absorb it, each time.  I used about 6 3/4 cups of veggie stock here, but depending on heat level and the type of rice, it may take more or less.

Some may prefer a “looser” risotto, one that lays flat in a bowl, so feel free to add more broth, right before serving to get the consistency exactly how you like it.

At the end, the secret to the flavor is getting the salt balance right.

If it is bland, add more salt, pepper and a pinch of chili flakes.

Finish with some lemon zest for a touch of brightness.

Serve this as a vegetarian main, or side dish. Or feel free to add shrimp.

If adding shrimp, season with the spice rub in the recipe card.

Pan-sear for a couple of minutes until golden and flavorful.

Top of the risotto with the flavorful shrimp.

Obviously, if you have both meat-eaters and vegetarians in the same house, you can add shrimp to some and leave shrimp off others. Super easy. 😉