Original recipes and photos with a hearty measure of facts, family, inspiration and humor. Everything food. Some reviews of area restaurants, some whimsical prose for reading pleasure.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Easy Chicken and Broccoli Lo Mein
Wondering what do with some of your in-season broccoli? Try this simple and delicious take-out at home recipe for a quick, satisfying and economical meal. If you do not have Lo Mein noodles on hand, simply use spaghetti as I did. I used chicken breast meat for the protein, but feel free to use bone-less, skinless chicken thigh meat to fit your budget. This recipe is a great canvas for throwing in some other veggies too, like peppers or carrots. The chicken is marinated for 15 minutes for maximum flavor, and it can be done while the pasta cooks. The broccoli can be blanched in the pasta water while it cooks, so there is minimal kitchen clutter to deal with afterwards.
Recipe :
1 lb. lo mein or uncooked spaghetti
1 lb. chicken, cut into 1/4 inch strips
1 lb. fresh broccoli florets
4 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
3 tbsp. fish sauce, divided
1 tbsp. sesame oil, plus more for drizzling
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 c. less sodium soy sauce
1/4 c. pasta water
4 tbsp. brown sugar
4 green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced
1 tsp. sambal oelek
1 tsp. lemon grass paste
Sesame seeds for garnish, optional
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Place chicken, 2 tbsp. fish sauce, 1/2 of garlic, sesame oil and ginger in re-sealable bag and shake to coat well. Marinate for 15 to 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring salted water up to a boil and cook spaghetti to al dente, blanch broccoli during the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking time. Drain, reserving 1/4 c. pasta water and set aside.
In a large saute pan over medium high heat, drizzle with olive oil and add chicken, sauteeing until no longer pink and juices run clear.
Add soy, pasta water remaining garlic, brown sugar, green onions, sambal oelek and lemon grass paste up to a boil. Add pasta and broccoli, folding and tossing to coat. Reduce heat to medium and toss and turn to allow all liquid to be absorbed. SPST. Turn off heat. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serves 6 to 8.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Delightful 24 Carrot Gold Chili
Spring is in full swing and the days are gradually moving us towards the ‘molten lava’ temperatures. Fortunately, we had some less than Spring like weather, making way for some of my favorites from Fall and Winter, or any other overcast laden, off beat day! This chili is great for those who need somewhere to throw in some hidden nutrients, vitamins and minerals. The chili itself isn’t heavy at all and the secret ingredient blends right in with all the other delicious goodies. In case you’re wondering about the name, it’s because there are carrots, grated and nestled about this chili, simmered with the beef and onions into ambiguity. Carrots lend their natural sweetness and earthy bluster to the other veggies already in tow. Recipes like this are great for children and adults alike who sometimes fall short of their recommended daily allowances. Besides, it can be our little secret! Additionally, the beef may be substituted with lean turkey or omitted altogether for vegetarian fare.
Recipe:
1 1/2 lbs. ground round, chuck or lean turkey
1/2 c. onion, finely chopped
2 carrots grated
3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
1/4 c. chili powder
1 1/2 c. diced tomato
2 tbsp. brown sugar
2 tbsp. tomato paste
1 tbsp. fish sauce
1 tbsp. sambal oelek
1 15 oz. can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 15 oz. can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 15 oz. can vegetarian beans with juices
SPST
In a medium heavy bottomed pot over medium high heat, brown beef with onion, carrots and garlic. SPST. Use a potato masher to break beef down into small morsels. Once browned, drain off excess fat reduce heat to medium and add chili powder, tomatoes, brown sugar, tomato paste, fish sauce and sambal oelek. Stir and simmer for 15 to 30 minutes, then stir in beans. SPST. Simmer until beans are heated through, about 10 minutes. Serve with crackers or rice if desired.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Avocado Cumin Deviled Eggs! The Revised Edition
Wondering what else to do with the Avocado-Cumin Mayonnaise recipe I shared in the last publication Creamy Avocado-Cumin Mayonnaise? Spruce up your plain deviled eggs with the addition of this mayo and watch your family's smiling faces. My 5 year old Bronwyn, happens to love deviled eggs, and she also loved these. I took this as a great sign, in all her persnickity ways. This being the child that I have bickered with for putting the mustard on her hotdog before adding the ketchup, or cutting her sandwiches into rectangles, as opposed to triangles. Further still, we have had tiffs about placing her beverages into a blue, when she feels like orange plastic cups that day, not to mention giving her 10 grapes instead of 8, YEAH! We all have our little nuances though. I am just glad that I can put a check mark on the 'GO MOM' side of the board. Thank God for those small miracles and a glass of wine every now and then!
Recipe:
Just follow your favorite deviled egg recipe substituting in this mayo. For this particular above recipe, I omitted the relish and the mustard for my more savory flavor profile tasters. I also have a version with the relish and mustard, whichs lends the element of sweet/tart. Bronwyn liked both, but preferred the ones with relish.
Garnish with a cilantro leaf and a dot of Sriracha, according to taste.*
*Just in case this is your first time, here is my complete recipe!
12 large eggs
1 ripe avocado, mashed with a fork
2 tbsp. mayonnaise
1 tbsp. sweet pickle relish
1 tsp. mustard
1/2 tsp. cumin
dash of Sriracha, according to taste
cilantro leaves and Sriracha for garnish, optional
SPST (Salt and Pepper to Suit your Taste)
Place eggs in medium pot with tightly fitting lid and fill with lightly salted COLD water until just covered.
Over medium high heat UNCOVERED, bring up to a boil, then cover with lid and REMOVE from heat source.
Let stand for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, drain and peel eggs under cool running water.
Halve each egg and gently press on sides to remove yolk into a medium bowl.
Add mashed avocado, mayonnaise, relish, mustard, cumin and Sriracha and blend with a fork until almost smooth. SPST
Pipe or spoon into egg halves liberally and garnish with a cilantro leaf and a dot of Sriracha.
Refrigerate until ready to serve. Makes 24, but feel free to half the recipe if desired, not that you would want to though!!:)
Recipe:
Just follow your favorite deviled egg recipe substituting in this mayo. For this particular above recipe, I omitted the relish and the mustard for my more savory flavor profile tasters. I also have a version with the relish and mustard, whichs lends the element of sweet/tart. Bronwyn liked both, but preferred the ones with relish.
Garnish with a cilantro leaf and a dot of Sriracha, according to taste.*
*Just in case this is your first time, here is my complete recipe!
12 large eggs
1 ripe avocado, mashed with a fork
2 tbsp. mayonnaise
1 tbsp. sweet pickle relish
1 tsp. mustard
1/2 tsp. cumin
dash of Sriracha, according to taste
cilantro leaves and Sriracha for garnish, optional
SPST (Salt and Pepper to Suit your Taste)
Place eggs in medium pot with tightly fitting lid and fill with lightly salted COLD water until just covered.
Over medium high heat UNCOVERED, bring up to a boil, then cover with lid and REMOVE from heat source.
Let stand for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, drain and peel eggs under cool running water.
Halve each egg and gently press on sides to remove yolk into a medium bowl.
Add mashed avocado, mayonnaise, relish, mustard, cumin and Sriracha and blend with a fork until almost smooth. SPST
Pipe or spoon into egg halves liberally and garnish with a cilantro leaf and a dot of Sriracha.
Refrigerate until ready to serve. Makes 24, but feel free to half the recipe if desired, not that you would want to though!!:)
Chicken Cordon Bleu Roulades
I did some brainstorming just before Mother's Day for some new appetizer ideas and came up with these deliciously fantastic and satisfying rolls consisting of all the components of the classic original, with first references making it's appearance in the U.S in the late 60's, by way of the New York Times. I received very positive feedback from all my tasters. I can be my harshest critic sometimes, especially according to my sister Hollie, and I really loved the creation. Store bought prep ingredients speed this recipe along full steam and they may be prepared ahead of time! I cut these roulades in half on a diagonal before serving for appetizer portions. This recipe is not hard to execute, but does require a little commitment. The end result is more than worth it!
Recipe:
1 lb. oven roasted chicken breast, lunch slice variety
1 pkg. real mozzarella and provolone cheese sticks (12 in the package found in cheese section)
1 9 oz. pkg. Canadian bacon slices
1/2 c. seasoned flour
1 1/2 c. seasoned Italian bread crumbs
egg wash
Wooden Skewers for securing and easy handling
oil for frying
Assembly: Place a slice of chicken breast on work surface and center a piece of Canadian bacon atop.
Place the cheese stick at one side and roll everything together, securing each with a skewer. Secure just past the point, do not thread all the way up, it will inhibit frying later.
Once all roulades have been assembled, place in freezer for 1 to 2 hours. This will help roulades keep their shape during deep frying process.
When ready, heat about 3 inches of oil to 375*F.
Using a sifter, shake seasoned flour over all sides of roulades.
Dip in egg wash.
Using a large resealable bag, pour in seasoned bread crumbs and shake to coat, tapping off excess.
Once all have been coated, deep fry in batches until golden and cheese just begins to show signs of exiting ends, about 30 seconds to 1 minute per batch of 3-4.
Drain on paper towels.
Let cool slightly before removing the skewer and cutting in half on diagonal for serving.
Arrange on leafy greens for a dynamic presentation if desired.
Serve with desired sauce or as is. Makes 24.
Recipe:
1 lb. oven roasted chicken breast, lunch slice variety
1 pkg. real mozzarella and provolone cheese sticks (12 in the package found in cheese section)
1 9 oz. pkg. Canadian bacon slices
1/2 c. seasoned flour
1 1/2 c. seasoned Italian bread crumbs
egg wash
Wooden Skewers for securing and easy handling
oil for frying
Assembly: Place a slice of chicken breast on work surface and center a piece of Canadian bacon atop.
Place the cheese stick at one side and roll everything together, securing each with a skewer. Secure just past the point, do not thread all the way up, it will inhibit frying later.
Once all roulades have been assembled, place in freezer for 1 to 2 hours. This will help roulades keep their shape during deep frying process.
When ready, heat about 3 inches of oil to 375*F.
Using a sifter, shake seasoned flour over all sides of roulades.
Dip in egg wash.
Using a large resealable bag, pour in seasoned bread crumbs and shake to coat, tapping off excess.
Once all have been coated, deep fry in batches until golden and cheese just begins to show signs of exiting ends, about 30 seconds to 1 minute per batch of 3-4.
Drain on paper towels.
Let cool slightly before removing the skewer and cutting in half on diagonal for serving.
Arrange on leafy greens for a dynamic presentation if desired.
Serve with desired sauce or as is. Makes 24.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Broccoli and Cheese Mini Turnovers
I prepared these turnovers as one of the appetizers to our Mother's Day dinner on the 12th. The Menu included a fabulous Smithfield ham, which I baked, crispy fried chicken, seasoned and simmered green beans, homemade baked macaroni and cheese, homemade potato salad and rolls. This is pretty much the standard Southern Comfort spread for our big family get togethers, with the appetizers being interchangeable.
The second appetizer was Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll-Ups, which will be shared within my next several publications. This recipe may be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed. I like this recipe because you can make as little or as many as you desire without a hassle!
Recipe:
20 can variety flaky style biscuits
1 8 oz. pkg. cubed cheese of choice
2 cups fresh steamed broccoli florets, cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
seasoned bread crumbs
egg wash
SPST
Preheat oven to 350*F.
Toss broccoli with onion and garlic powder and SPST.
On a surface sprinkled with a scant amount of bread crumbs, roll out each biscuit until it's about 3-4 inches across and place 2 cubes of cheese and 2 pieces of broccoli in center, and fold over.
Seal edges with a fork and place on un-greased baking sheet.
Once all have been prepared, brush with egg wash and sprinkle with bread crumbs. SPST.
Bake until golden and cheese starts to ooze, about 5 minutes.
Makes Serves 10-2 portion servings.
Serve with ranch dressing, Sweet chili sauce or preferred dipping sauce.
Creamy Avocado-Cumin Mayonnaise
This wonderful avocado infused mayo is the springboard for several fun and easy recipes to come. I Initially came up with it as a spread for a crunchy chicken sandwich, loaded with crisp and bright green leaf lettuce, Roma tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion. The simplicity and deliciousness of this mayo is unbelievable and the healthy benefits of the avocado, enhance it's flavor profile 10 fold. Avocadoes or '"alligator pears" are rich in mono-unsaturated fats, which tend to be of the heart healthy variety. They contain a gaggle of B vitamins, protein, potassium,Vitamin K, minerals essential for the building blocks of cells and for an overall positive contribution to the body human. There is only a small amount of actual mayonnaise in this recipe, and regular or reduced fat may be used. This is an amazing swap out for the saturated fat that the egg yolks would normally bring to the table. As a mayonnaise lover, I never missed a beat as per taste and I definitely didn't miss the cholesterol!
Recipe:
1 ripe avocado, removed from skin, de-seeded and mashed
2 tbsp. mayonnaise
1/4 tsp. ground cumin
2-3 drops Sriracha
SPST
With a fork in a small bowl, blend and mash avocado and mayonnaise until a smooth or desired consistency is reached. Stir in cumin and Sriracha to taste and SPST. Transfer to Makes about 5 oz.
Recipe:
1 ripe avocado, removed from skin, de-seeded and mashed
2 tbsp. mayonnaise
1/4 tsp. ground cumin
2-3 drops Sriracha
SPST
With a fork in a small bowl, blend and mash avocado and mayonnaise until a smooth or desired consistency is reached. Stir in cumin and Sriracha to taste and SPST. Transfer to Makes about 5 oz.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Happy Mothers Days Year Round!
This publication is a throwback from a Halloween piece I did for my children and nephew for a smashing adolescent dinner party, complete with large plastic rats, cob webs galore, huge leaf-stuffed spiders, as well as tiny ones, orange and black balloons, skeletons and ghosts yard decor. I mentioned the dish, but I had not yet shared the preparation. The pizza cups were fun and ghoulish with the adddition of green food coloring added to the store bought package of dough.
The portions are bite sized, as I used a mini muffin baking pan. Each cup is topped with a dollop of your favorite sauce, 1 slice pepperoni, and one square of sliced mozzarella cheese. The finished product is garnished with grated parmesan cheese upon plating. The children really enjoyed the dish long with their Swamp Punch (Green Sorbet with Lemon Lime Soda with plastic eyeballs), Critter Cakes ( Chocolate Cupcakes with Tri-ColorToasted Coconut), Witches Skin and Graveyard Bones (Sour Cream and Onion Chips and Pretzels), Werewolves Legs ( Crispy Chicken Drumsticks) and Zombie Eyeballs (Tangy Meatballs). The adults attending enjoyed the menu as well.
Occasions like this make my ideas and creations my rewards of sorts, gratifying because of my kids' satisfaction. Their smiles are like badges of courage, which shine like tiny beacons of hope and, beckoning me to keep pushing for better dishes for entertainng and keeping their attention, as well as for my adult tasters and menus. When the kiddies big beautiful eyes light up the room anticipationg the next surprise and those joyous squeals of delight resonate throughout the house, it drowns out everything that may have went wrong during the course of that day, gives me a little more energy and bestows a feeling within my heart that I am doing something right in this world, and it's always worth it and keeps me going... Everyday is Mother's Day when you are committed to your children's happiness and knowing that we have the most loyal and biggest fans, comparable to the status of celebrities, waiting to see our faces when they wake up, and before the go to bed! Being a Mom Really Rocks! Happy Mother's Day!
The portions are bite sized, as I used a mini muffin baking pan. Each cup is topped with a dollop of your favorite sauce, 1 slice pepperoni, and one square of sliced mozzarella cheese. The finished product is garnished with grated parmesan cheese upon plating. The children really enjoyed the dish long with their Swamp Punch (Green Sorbet with Lemon Lime Soda with plastic eyeballs), Critter Cakes ( Chocolate Cupcakes with Tri-ColorToasted Coconut), Witches Skin and Graveyard Bones (Sour Cream and Onion Chips and Pretzels), Werewolves Legs ( Crispy Chicken Drumsticks) and Zombie Eyeballs (Tangy Meatballs). The adults attending enjoyed the menu as well.
Occasions like this make my ideas and creations my rewards of sorts, gratifying because of my kids' satisfaction. Their smiles are like badges of courage, which shine like tiny beacons of hope and, beckoning me to keep pushing for better dishes for entertainng and keeping their attention, as well as for my adult tasters and menus. When the kiddies big beautiful eyes light up the room anticipationg the next surprise and those joyous squeals of delight resonate throughout the house, it drowns out everything that may have went wrong during the course of that day, gives me a little more energy and bestows a feeling within my heart that I am doing something right in this world, and it's always worth it and keeps me going... Everyday is Mother's Day when you are committed to your children's happiness and knowing that we have the most loyal and biggest fans, comparable to the status of celebrities, waiting to see our faces when they wake up, and before the go to bed! Being a Mom Really Rocks! Happy Mother's Day!
Friday, May 10, 2013
Blackberry and Rosemary Scented Lamb Chops w/ Brown Butter Gnocchi and Sweet and Sour Chard
This recipe's photo fell victim to my camera yet again, which is recently not performing up to par. I am proud though, of the outcome of my creations, so I will share anyway. Alternately, I really love the vintage plate by Wood and Sons of England. Win! Win! Lamb chops are the star of this meal, with the addition of baby chard grown in my herb garden and gnocchi, with flecks of herbs from my garden as well. The marinade was an experiement of sorts with blackberry cider, which I originally used for a wonderful demi sauce for seared pork chops in another publication. When I try new and different products, ingredients and/or seasonings, I like to manifest as many ideas possible, some are decidedly slightly better than others, but delicious none the less.
These lamb chops are marinated in a mix of cider, garlic, fish sauce and fresh rosemary. My family is somewhat divided when it comes to lamb, some really like the taste, like my nephew Rob and his mom, my sister Terry. My sisters Hollie and Gayle, not so much. Hollie did however, enjoy like this version, much better than the last Lamb recipe I prepared, which the family overall said they would eat again. Personal preference is of course at one's discretion, but if you appreciate lamb, you may appreciate this dish and share with family and friends!
Recipe:
6 to 8 lamb chops, about 1 1/2 lbs.
1 c. blackberry cider
2 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
2 tbsp. fish sauce
1/2 tsp. fresh rosemary, rough chopped
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Bring cider and remaining ingredients, except rosemary, up to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in rosemary. Allow marinade to cool completely. Drizzle lamb chops with olive oil and place in large resealable bag or shallow baking dish. Pour marinade over chops and press out excess air and seal if using a bag, turn to coat and cover with plastic wrap if using a dish. Refrigerate for desired time of marination.
When ready, pour off marinade and pat chops dry. SPST
Sear over medium high heat in saute pan drizzled or sprayed with olive oil,until nicely caramelized on both sides, about 2 minutes per side and finish in the oven at 350* F, until internal temp reaches 160*F for medium, about 10 minutes
You may grill as desired also, adding a sultry smokiness to the flavor profile.
Serves 3-4.
Brown Butter Gnocchi w/ Fresh Herbs
500 g. potato gnocchi
2 tbsp. chopped onion
1 clove garlic, pressed or finely minced
2 tbsp. real butter
1 tbsp. fresh, mixed herbs like basil, parsley and oregano
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Add gnocchi to boiling salted water and remove once water starts to boil again and gnocchi floats.
Meanwhile, melt buter in large saute pan over medium high heat until butter browns and add onion and garlic. Saute for about one minute or until fragrant, add gnocchi. Cook for about 1 additional minute and remove from heat. Drizzle with olive oil and toss with herbs in pan.
Serves 4-6.
These lamb chops are marinated in a mix of cider, garlic, fish sauce and fresh rosemary. My family is somewhat divided when it comes to lamb, some really like the taste, like my nephew Rob and his mom, my sister Terry. My sisters Hollie and Gayle, not so much. Hollie did however, enjoy like this version, much better than the last Lamb recipe I prepared, which the family overall said they would eat again. Personal preference is of course at one's discretion, but if you appreciate lamb, you may appreciate this dish and share with family and friends!
Recipe:
6 to 8 lamb chops, about 1 1/2 lbs.
1 c. blackberry cider
2 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
2 tbsp. fish sauce
1/2 tsp. fresh rosemary, rough chopped
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Bring cider and remaining ingredients, except rosemary, up to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in rosemary. Allow marinade to cool completely. Drizzle lamb chops with olive oil and place in large resealable bag or shallow baking dish. Pour marinade over chops and press out excess air and seal if using a bag, turn to coat and cover with plastic wrap if using a dish. Refrigerate for desired time of marination.
When ready, pour off marinade and pat chops dry. SPST
Sear over medium high heat in saute pan drizzled or sprayed with olive oil,until nicely caramelized on both sides, about 2 minutes per side and finish in the oven at 350* F, until internal temp reaches 160*F for medium, about 10 minutes
You may grill as desired also, adding a sultry smokiness to the flavor profile.
Serves 3-4.
Brown Butter Gnocchi w/ Fresh Herbs
500 g. potato gnocchi
2 tbsp. chopped onion
1 clove garlic, pressed or finely minced
2 tbsp. real butter
1 tbsp. fresh, mixed herbs like basil, parsley and oregano
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Add gnocchi to boiling salted water and remove once water starts to boil again and gnocchi floats.
Meanwhile, melt buter in large saute pan over medium high heat until butter browns and add onion and garlic. Saute for about one minute or until fragrant, add gnocchi. Cook for about 1 additional minute and remove from heat. Drizzle with olive oil and toss with herbs in pan.
Serves 4-6.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Smoky and Delicious Marinated London Broil
Flank Steak or London Broil is a popular and if prepared correctly, amazing main course, for even the most special occasions. Butchers in America may also label Top Round/Roast as London Broil. The name itself does not refer to the cut of meat, rather the style of preparation and the method of cooking. Actually, the name is a misnomer, people in the city of London, England needless to say, are not familiar with such a dish. Traditionally, this cut is marinated and cooked close to the heat source, about 3 inches and turned often to prevent burning. This is a cut to be prepared either using very little or an extensive amount of cooking time. The meat is then cut across the grain on a 'horizontal diagonal' in thin slices to promote edibility. Failure to do so will result in a very tough and fibrous slab of virtual fodder, suitable only for cubing and tossing to the wild.
Recipe:
1 London Broil, about 3 1/2 lbs.{varies by size}
1/4 cup Sherry
1/4 cup worcestershire
1 tbsp. brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. sambal oelek
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Rinse and pat meat dry and place in large resealable bag and drizzle with olive oil. Combine ingredients in small bowl and add to bag. Massage the marinade into the meat for a couple of minutes, then press out excess air and seal. Marinate 8 to 24 hours.
When ready, discard marinade and pat meat dry. SPST. Broil or grill over high heat, turning often until desired doneness, about 8 minutes per side (varies by size) for medium rare, or 145 degrees. Tent with foil . Allow broil to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing for juices to re-absorb and temperature to reach 150 degrees.
Recipe:
1 London Broil, about 3 1/2 lbs.{varies by size}
1/4 cup Sherry
1/4 cup worcestershire
1 tbsp. brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. sambal oelek
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Rinse and pat meat dry and place in large resealable bag and drizzle with olive oil. Combine ingredients in small bowl and add to bag. Massage the marinade into the meat for a couple of minutes, then press out excess air and seal. Marinate 8 to 24 hours.
When ready, discard marinade and pat meat dry. SPST. Broil or grill over high heat, turning often until desired doneness, about 8 minutes per side (varies by size) for medium rare, or 145 degrees. Tent with foil . Allow broil to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing for juices to re-absorb and temperature to reach 150 degrees.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Upside Down Tropical Pork Pot Pies!
This recipe is the third of four recipes created using Boston Butt as the protein. The pork is marinated in a subtle, yet surprisingly flavorful implement of mango, lemon, garlic and fennel pollen. Fennel pollen originated in the Meditteranean, but has more recently emerged on the west coast and coastal regions in the Americas. This spice is similar to anise, with a licorice flavor profile and remniscent of other spices like saffron and curries. This spice has been highly prized and revered in Italian cuisine for centuries, but a newly found "secret ingredient" to western civilization. A little goes a long way when using this gem, so when developing recipes, be mindful of it's usage.
The pork is simmered until tender in a dutch oven with new potatoes, poblano chiles and onions. The results are then mounded onto a wonderfully crispy and flaky version of a sopapilla or Central American fried bread with pockets, made with coconut milk and served drizzled with a buttermilk ranch that has been thinned with the addition of more buttermilk.
The flavor infusion of these magnificent ingredients and the tenderizing components of the mango, send the tastebuds on an island getaway, hence the name. My mother and also my most discerning critic, enjoyed this dish tremendously, as well as my sister and fellow foodie, Bonnie.
Recipe:
About 2 lbs. Boston Butt, trimmed and cut into 1/4 and 1/2 inch pieces
1/2 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. fennel pollen
3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
1 large very ripe mango, mashed into paste-like consistency
1 large lemon
3 c. new potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch chunks
3 poblano chilies, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 c. onion, halved, both halves quartered
fresh parsley for garnish
buttermilk ranch for drizzling
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Island Sopapillas:
3 c. all pupose flour
1 1/2 tsp. double acting baking powder
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
3 tbsp. olive oil
1/2 to 3/4 c. coconut milk
oil for frying
Toss pork with fennel pollen and garlic. SPST. Add to large resealable bag and add crushed mango and lemon juice and toss to coat. Press out excess air and seal. Marinate for 4 to 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 350*.
In a large saute pan drizzled with olive oil, over medium high heat, sear pork in small batches and transfer to 6 1/2 quart.
dutch oven.
Once all pork has been seared, place veggies on top without stirring, SPST and cover.
Bake until pork is tender, about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours.
Carefully fold veggies with pork before serving. Makes about 10 -1 cup servings.
Meanwhile, combine flour baking powder and salt.
Cut in olive oil.
Add enough coconut to flour so that it adheres together and forms a ball, adding flour if neccessary. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Place in bowl and let rest covered with a towel or plastic wrap for 15 minutes.
On lightly floured surface, cut ball into portions, after slightly rolling it out and cutting in half. I cut mine into 11 portions.
Roll each portion into thin pancake-like discs, about 6 to 8 inches in diameter.
Fry individully in hot oil until puffed and slightly golden. Drain on paper towels.
Mound pork mixture onto center of sopapilllas and drizzle with buttermilk ranch.
Garnish with fresh parsley.
The pork is simmered until tender in a dutch oven with new potatoes, poblano chiles and onions. The results are then mounded onto a wonderfully crispy and flaky version of a sopapilla or Central American fried bread with pockets, made with coconut milk and served drizzled with a buttermilk ranch that has been thinned with the addition of more buttermilk.
The flavor infusion of these magnificent ingredients and the tenderizing components of the mango, send the tastebuds on an island getaway, hence the name. My mother and also my most discerning critic, enjoyed this dish tremendously, as well as my sister and fellow foodie, Bonnie.
Recipe:
About 2 lbs. Boston Butt, trimmed and cut into 1/4 and 1/2 inch pieces
1/2 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. fennel pollen
3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
1 large very ripe mango, mashed into paste-like consistency
1 large lemon
3 c. new potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch chunks
3 poblano chilies, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 c. onion, halved, both halves quartered
fresh parsley for garnish
buttermilk ranch for drizzling
olive oil for drizzling
SPST
Island Sopapillas:
3 c. all pupose flour
1 1/2 tsp. double acting baking powder
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
3 tbsp. olive oil
1/2 to 3/4 c. coconut milk
oil for frying
Toss pork with fennel pollen and garlic. SPST. Add to large resealable bag and add crushed mango and lemon juice and toss to coat. Press out excess air and seal. Marinate for 4 to 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 350*.
In a large saute pan drizzled with olive oil, over medium high heat, sear pork in small batches and transfer to 6 1/2 quart.
dutch oven.
Once all pork has been seared, place veggies on top without stirring, SPST and cover.
Bake until pork is tender, about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours.
Carefully fold veggies with pork before serving. Makes about 10 -1 cup servings.
Meanwhile, combine flour baking powder and salt.
Cut in olive oil.
Add enough coconut to flour so that it adheres together and forms a ball, adding flour if neccessary. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Place in bowl and let rest covered with a towel or plastic wrap for 15 minutes.
On lightly floured surface, cut ball into portions, after slightly rolling it out and cutting in half. I cut mine into 11 portions.
Roll each portion into thin pancake-like discs, about 6 to 8 inches in diameter.
Fry individully in hot oil until puffed and slightly golden. Drain on paper towels.
Mound pork mixture onto center of sopapilllas and drizzle with buttermilk ranch.
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Warm Asian Slaw and a Cool Picture!
My family and I really like the flavor profile, and the light crunch of the Napa cabbage. A real advantage of this recipe is that there's no mayo in this particular version so it may be safely served hot and at room temperature. The prep work is a cinch, and the whole recipe is ready in about 5 minutes.
The above picture is one I took during the winter when we were splitting fire wood. There were several cut pieces to be split, which revealed a cachaphony of gorgeous tints and shades of purple and yellow. It reminds me of a far off, exotic land, with a breathtaking and unforgettable sunset.
There was a colony of ants inhabiting the wood, busily hurrying on their way, scrambling to and fro, trying to adjust to their ever changing environment. We didn't utilize the wood immediately, so the tiny workers had some time to relocate and start again.:)
Recipe:
6 cups Napa cabbage, rinsed, trimmed, patted dry and sliced
1 carrot, grated
3 green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
2 tbsp. fish sauce
1 tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. sambal oelek
sesame oil for drizzling
In a large saute pan over medium high heat, drizzle pan with a little sesame oil and add garlic, green onion, fish sauce, brown sugar and sambal oelek. Bring up to a boil, stirring constantly, then add cabbage and carrot. Remove from heat and toss.*
*This cabbage will lose water fast after tossing together, simply drain if desired. The flavors will have coated and been absorbed. Makes about 6 1/2 cup servings.
Easiest Eggrolls with Chicken!
This is one of those recipes that I wouldn't normally share because I figure everyone already has, but it is so fun and a recipe that kids can help make and feel a certain amount of pride and achievement. These puppies pack a mean punch of with lots of B vitamins and minerals like magnesium, potassium and Vitamin C. Also, cabbage is rich in antioxidants, phyto-chemicals and Vitamin K. Simplistic, no fuss ingredients, easy cleanup and no plates needed, make this recipe one worth sharing.
1 lb. bag coleslaw or broccoli slaw mix
1 9 oz. pkg. cooked, carving board type chicken breast, minced
2 tbsp. hoisin sauce
1 tbsp. fish sauce
egg roll wrappers
SPST
oil for frying
olive oil for drizzling
Heat cooking oil to 375*F, about 3 inches.
In a large saute pan over medium high heat, drizzled with olive oil, saute slaw mix for 1 to 2 minutes or until fragrant, and remove from heat. Fold in chicken, hoisin and fish sauce. Allow to cool enough to handle.
Place about 2 tbsp. mix into each wrapper and fold according to package instructions. Fry in batches until golden, about 3 minutes, and drain on paper towels. Makes about 22 egg rolls. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce.
1 lb. bag coleslaw or broccoli slaw mix
1 9 oz. pkg. cooked, carving board type chicken breast, minced
2 tbsp. hoisin sauce
1 tbsp. fish sauce
egg roll wrappers
SPST
oil for frying
olive oil for drizzling
Heat cooking oil to 375*F, about 3 inches.
In a large saute pan over medium high heat, drizzled with olive oil, saute slaw mix for 1 to 2 minutes or until fragrant, and remove from heat. Fold in chicken, hoisin and fish sauce. Allow to cool enough to handle.
Place about 2 tbsp. mix into each wrapper and fold according to package instructions. Fry in batches until golden, about 3 minutes, and drain on paper towels. Makes about 22 egg rolls. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Grilled Pork Butt Skewers, Warm Asian Slaw and Basmati Rice
This recipe is an installment of many involving a pork butt roast. I caught a wonderful sale at a local grocer and used the 8 1/2 pound roast as a live lab to develop at least four recipes using the versatile and budget friendly find. There are many steps to this recipe, but none of them are difficult and the prep is broken down by way of marination time. This recipe may be easily prepped for hassle free meal time the next day.
There are actually three recipes on this page, two will be covered in this publication, and the third, coming up soon after in another. The ingredients consist of bright and fragrant lemon grass paste and pungent and tangy fish sauce. Garlic and a Chinese BBQ marinade, which gives these skewers their brilliant color and warm Five Spice notes, are at the base of this dish as well. The longer you marinate this pork the better and grilling the skewers makes for an outstanding flavor profile. I served this dish with Basmati rice flecked with green onions, but feel free to use any rice or sides you wish.*
Recipe:
About 2 lbs. Boston Butt, sliced into 1/4 inch slices vertically
1 pkg. Chinese BBQ seasoning and marinade
1/2 c. water
2 tbsp. fish sauce
1 tbsp. sambal oelek
1 tbsp. lemon grass paste
1 tbsp. seasoned rice vinegar
SPST
With a meat mallet or tenderizer, pound slices of pork until they are about an 1/8 inch in thickness
and slice again into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 to 6 inches long.
Combine remaining ingredients and place in large resealable bag. Toss and shake together with strips and press out excess air. Seal and marinate for 2-6 hours or overnight.
When ready, soak skewers in salted water for 20-30 minutes before adding meat. Be sure to add only one strip per swewer to ensure even cooking and carmelization, unless there are a couple of random sized strips remaining.
Grill over medium hot coals, turning often until golden and internal temperature reaches 170 degrees, about 15 minutes, depending on grill and heat.
Makes about 20 skewers.
Serve with Fragrant Basmati Rice w/Green Onions
Recipe:
2 c. Basmati rice, soaked for 15 minutes in cold water
6 c. chicken or pork bouillon
3 green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced
sesame oil
SPST
Bring bouillon up to a boil and add rice. Boil uncovered with medium roll for 10 minutes.
Drain and fold in green onions. SPST
Drizzle with sesame oil and fluff with a fork. Makes 6 cups of rice.
*My apologies for the poor contrasts in this and many photos to come, my phone camera is apparently upset with me. We are currently trying to dissolve our differences and work as a team again. So please, bear with us!:}
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