BE FREE Mac n’ Cheese July 3, 2009

Yes, this is a mac’n'cheese for the rest of us … soy, gluten, AND dairy free!!!  Some of the most common allergens and food intollerences out there these days.  Sad but true.  This certainly won’t replace Auntie Marg’s creamy gooey gorgeous baked version that has everyone in a coma for a few hours after enjoying, but hey, it’s better than the alternative of nothing.  It’s a pretty tasty and easy version of a classic that will satisfy any “freer” out there.  Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/4 cup uncooked brown rice macaroni

1 1/4 cup unsweetened rice milk

1/3 cup nutritional yeast

1 tsp sea salt

1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tsp EACH onion powderand garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp tumeric

1 tbsp tahini

Sprinking of smoked paprika for dusting (optional!!)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cook pasta according to directions on the box (usually about 7-8 min).

2. Immediately drain and rinse with cold water, and set aside.

3. Whisk all remaining ingredients together in a medium sauce pan, and turn on heat on burner to medium.

4. Bring sauce to a near boil then turn down the heat to low – stirring occasionally, to allow sauce to thicken.

5. Remove from heat once thickened, and combine with cooked macaroni, stirring to coat completely.

6. Return to bruner, heat thoroughly and serve!

Black Bean Burgers with Fried Eggs and Avocado-creme June 18, 2009

Brunch just got better … here’s a Tex-Mex-influenced addition to your breakfast table (or dinner table for that matter).  You can even make everything a day in advance and just reheat (well, except for the fried eggs), assemble, and serve!  Don’t forget to put out the hot sauce too, for an extra kick.

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INGREDIENTS:

Black bean cakes:
1/4 cup finely ground cornmeal
2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
2 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 large egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
4 tsp hot sauce
4 tsp salt
1/4 cup oil (canola or vegetable work best)

Avocado-creme:
1 avocado, cut in half lengthwise, peel and pit removed
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup sour cream
2 TBSP lime juice

Additional:
6 fried eggs

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DIRECTIONS:

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Black bean cakes:

1. Heat oven to 300°F and arrange rack in the middle, then place cornmeal in a shallow dish and set aside

2. Place beans, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, cilantro, onion, hot sauce, and salt in food processor, pulse about 15 times until incorporated and beans are broken down (but some whole beans remain).

3. Form 6 patties and dust each patty on both sides with cornmeal, and
place on baking sheet or plate.

4. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes, then place 3 patties in pan and fry until golden (about 3 to 5 minutes per side – but watch out they don’t burn!).

5. Transfer fried patties on baking sheet and place in oven to keep warm (and then repeat with remaining patties).

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Avocado-creme:
* Place all ingredients into food processor and process until smooth, then season with salt.

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Put it all together:
* Place bean cakes on serving plates and top each with a fried egg and 2 TBSP of avocado-creme!!

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Polenta with Broccoli and Tomato June 11, 2009

I usually stick to grilling or toasting the pre-made roll-o-polenta, but after a week of unexciting regular go-to’s, I decided to branch out and experiment.  Success!  Not only is basic polenta delicious and cheap, it’s super easy to make and goes with just about anything you’d pair pasta with.  It’s hearty and luscious, and a great way to showcase your favourite vegetables … plus it suits gluten-free diets perfectly! I had a head of broccoli that needed some love, and one brand new hunk of tasty parmesan that was just begging to be grated … and voila!

 

 

INGREDIENTS:

For the polenta

4 cups vegetable stock (although you can use water too)

1/4 tsp salt

1-1/4 cups cornmeal

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for sprinkling

2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into bits

 

For the vegetables

2 tbsp olive oil

6 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1 large bunch broccoli, chopped into tiny florets (5-6 cups total)

1/3 cup water

3 plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped (you can use canned if you forgot to buy fresh)

Salt and pepper to taste

 

DIRECTIONS:

1. Bring vegetable stock to a boil in a medium saucepan, then turn down to a simmer.

 

2. Add cornmeal to stock in a slow stream, whisking, and continuing to whisk after it is all added for about 5 minutes.

 

Note – Allow to polenta to cook gently while the vegetables are prepared.

 

3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat, and once oil is hot, add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until garlic is fragrant (about 1 minute).

 

4. Add broccoli, toss with oil, then add the water and cover to steam until tender.

 

5. Uncover broccoli once tender, then add tomatoes, and cook until liquid evaporates (about 2 minutes more) – season to taste.

 

6. Season the polenta to taste, mix in parmesan cheese and butter, then pour onto plates and top with cooked vegetables (serve with a sprinkling parmesan cheese).

Coconut Layer Cake June 2, 2009

I made this cake for my Mom’s birthday recently, and it was a big hit.  Bear in mind, the woman is one tough cookie to please culinarily wise, so the fact that it went over so well is a pretty good indicator of the greatness of this cake!  If you love coconut like I do, then this will be a little slice of heaven for you.  WARNING: hard to say ‘NO’ to seconds.

 

FOR THE CAKE:

2 1/4 cups cake flour or plain flour

1 tbsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 tsp coconut or vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups milk (I used 1/2 dairy and 1/2 rice)

1/2 cup egg whites (it’s about 3-4 large eggs, separated)

 

Buttery-coconut filling and icing:

 1 cup powdered sugar

 approx 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened

 approx. 1/2 cup coconut milk

 For garnish: sweetened shredded coconut

 

DIRECTIONS:

  

1. Grease two 8″ round cake pans and preheat the oven to 350F, then sift cake flour, baking powder, and salt onto a plate.

 2. Beat butter and sugar until light and creamy, and then add in the extract.

 3. In a separate bowl, whisk milk and egg whites.

4. Add 1/3 of flour mixture to butter, mix until smooth.

5. Add in 1/2 egg white mixture and then add in 1/3 of the flour mixture – beat well!

6. Add in remaining liquid and flour mix, and combine until well incorporated (you may want to use a hand beater for this).

7. Divide batter between 2 cake pans and bake for 30-35 min, or until done.

8. Cool cake in pans for about 5 min and then cool on the racks. 

 

*To make filling/icing:

1) Mix room-temp butter with 1 TBSP of coconut milk and a fewe tsp of icing sugar and combine well.

2) Continue adding icing sugar, until more liquid is needed (it’ll get really clumpy).  Add in a little coconut milk and butter at a time, interspersing with icing sugar, until you get the desired consistency (should be perfect for spreading). 

 

*To layer the cake:

1) Once completely cooled, slice each layer of the cake horizontally into half into 4 slices – place one layer on a cake platter.

2) Spread with 1/4 of icing on it – then top with another layer of cake and repeat.

3) Place the last layer on top and spread the top and sides of the cake with the remaining icing. NOTE – I WAS IN A RUSH, SO THIS TIME I SKIPPED 4 LAYERS, AND JUST DID 2.

4) Sprinkle and press sweetened coconut all over the outside of the cake.

5) Chill cake for 1-2 hrs to set icing and coconut – then serve at room temperature (it will keep nicely in fridge for a few days as well).

The Un-Meat Burger June 2, 2009

These “meaty” burgers are made with lentils, and are not only healthy and low-fat, but exceptionally delicious on their own or with all your favourite fixings. Surprised? Try them and see. They’re a breeze to make, especially if you use a can of lentils instead of cooking dried ones. Substitute rice or chickpea flour for the bread crumbs for a gluten-free version!

 

INGREDIENTS:

* 1 cup dry lentils, well rinsed

* 2½ cups water

* ½ tsp salt

* 1 TBSP olive oil

* ½ medium onion, diced

* 1 medium zuchinni, diced

* ½ tsp pepper

* ¾ cup rolled oats, finely ground

* ¾ cup bread crumbs

* 1 egg

 

DIRECTIONS:

1) Place the lentils, water, and salt in saucepan, bring to a boil, lower heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, until water is nearly gone and lentils are very soft, with splitting skins (or use 1 can of ready to eat lentils).

2) Sauté the onion and carrot in oil until soft, about 5 minutes.

3) Mix the lentils, onions, zychinni, pepper, and optional spices in the large bowl, then mix in the ground oats and bread crumbs, followed lastly by the egg.

4) While still warm, form the lentil mixture into patties, which can now be frozen, refrigerated (for up to 5 days), or cooked immediately.

 

Cooking (2 possibilities):

A. In a frying pan, heat a bit of oil, place a burger on top, and fry until brown, about 2 minutes. Repeat on other side and serve. *These taste great on their own, or the same way traditional meat burgers are served.

OR

B. In a 400ºF oven, bake the burgers on a greased baking sheet until light brown, about 15 minutes (turning once midway through).

Eggplant Pasta Bake May 1, 2009

I am a pasta-holic.  Along with coffee and wine, pasta is one of my top vices – most definitely.  So, I try to make it only once (okay, maybe twice) per week, and as healthy as I can.  That said, here is my take on an easy casserole style pasta dish that is loaded with flavour and other than some fat from the cheese (which is good in my books), it’s a healthy way to add some fibre, veggies, and cozy-food goodness into your day.  And oh yes, this pairs deliciously well with a gorgeous Pinot Noir!!!

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups whole wheat penne pasta
2 medium eggplants, peeled and cut lengthwise into 1/4 inch slices
salt (to sprinkle)
1 TBSP olive oil
1 cup onion, chopped
2 + 3/4 cups tomato sauce
6 Roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, grated

DIRECTIONS:

1) Cook pasta in boiling salted water for 8-10 min, until tender but firm, then drain and return to same saucepan. Set aside.

2) Meanwhile, sprinkle both sides of eggplant slices with salt, and place on wire rack set on a baking sheet.

3) Let eggplant stand for about 15-20 min, then rinse with cold water and blot dry (tea-towel or paper-towels will do).

4) Brush both sides of eggplant slices lightly with olive oil, and cook eggplant on greased grill or BBQ for 2-3 min per side until golden.

5) Transfer grilled eggplant to cutting board or large plate, and cut into 1 inch pieces, then add to pasta.

6) Heat olive oil in small frying pan on medium – add onion and cook for 5-10 min (stirring often) until softened.

7) Add onion to pasta, stir, then add tomato sauce, Roma tomatoes, basil pesto and stir again.

8] Transfer everything into greased 3 quart casserole dish (bust out the Le Crueset!!!), sprinkle with both cheeses and bake uncovered, in 350°F oven for 30-40 min until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden.

9) Let stand for 5 min before serving – then enjoy!!

The Bottle with the Bike May 1, 2009

Latest Wine review!!!

Cono Sur
Pinot Noir, 2007
$10.45 at Ontario’s LCBO

This Chilean red was brought to my attention by my wife (yes, I have 2 wives and 1 husband to be – it’s a looooooooooong story). Anywho… I just thought I MUST share this great find. Originally bought completely due to the cute bike on the front (the wife is an avid tri-athlete and Iron Man fiend … yes … one of ‘those’), it proved to be much more than just a gimmicky label. It held up very well to being enjoyed straight out of the bottle, with no breathing time or decanting time whatsoever. It’s slightly fruitish, with a hint of acidity, and has a wonderful aftertaste. I am by no means a sommelier, but man, this one is certainly a wine to keep on hand and in the main rotation. All this, and for under $11. Wow – beat that Chateau Lafite 1787!!!

Kashmiri Kidney Beans and Turnips April 24, 2009

I LOVE Indian food – winter, spring, summer and fall. This fragrant and heart-warming dish is a winter staple in the Indian state of Kashmir (or so I hear – although it seems for Fall-like to me) – but can obviously be enjoyed any time of year. It is a straightforward recipe, and results in an immensely satisfying meal. It’s high in fibre and nutrients, and is low in fat and calories, so what more can a gal ask for? Serve over basmati rice – or with a warm piece of fresh Naan bread.

INGREDIENTS

1 turnips, peeled and cubed

1/2 cup water

1/4 tsp salt

1 (14.5 ounce) can kidney beans, drained (but save liquid for later)

1 tbsp and 1-1/2 tsp vegetable oil

1/4 tsp whole cumin seeds

1/4 tsp whole fennel seeds

1/2 cup finely chopped red onion

1/4 tsp minced fresh ginger root

1/4 tsp minced garlic

1 cup chopped tomatoes (or use canned if you want)

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp turmeric powder

1/4 tsp ground ginger

1 tbsp water

1/4 tsp garam masala

DIRECTIONS

1) Place turnip into a saucepan with water and salt, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the turnip is soft (about 5 min).

2) Once tender, stir in kidney beans, and cook 5 min more.

3) Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat – stir in cumin and fennel, and cook until the spices toast and become fragrant, about 1 min.

4) Stir in onion, and cook until it turns golden brown, about 5 min.

5) Stir in minced ginger and garlic, cook and stir for 30 seconds, then add tomatoes and salt, and continue cooking until the mixture turns pasty.

6) Finally, stir in paprika, turmeric, ground ginger, and a bit of water (about a tbsp) – cook 2 min more.

7) Add tomato mixture to turnip, and add back in liquid from kidney bean can, and simmer 10 min.

8] Season with garam masala before serving over a bed of basmati rice!

SOUPS UP YO! Potato-Leek & Brocolli-Cheddar April 21, 2009

Some people enjoy a TV marathon, some enjoy a movie marathon.  I seem to gravitate towards cooking marathons, and last night was no different.  I was in a soup frenzy, and happily spent a few wee hours abusing my brand spanking new Le Cruset stock pot.  The result was not one, but 2 separate batches of delicious, soup, much to the delight of my hungry cousin and fiance.  Lucky duckys.

POTATO LEEK SOUP

INGREDIENTS:

1 TBSP extra-virgin olive oil

2 leeks, white & light green parts washed and sliced into 1/4-inch slices

2 cups yellow onion, chopped

1/2 TSP sea salt

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 large Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled & cut into 1/2-inch cubes

4 cups veggie stock

1/2 cup white wine

2-3 tsp fresh rosemary leaves

pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Heat a LARGE soup pot over medium heat and add the oil.

2. Add the leeks, onion, and salt and sauté for about 5 min, stirring often, until  onion begins to turn translucent.

3. Add garlic and stir well – and cook for 1 min more.

4. Add potatoes, veggie stock and wine, cover, and bring to a boil – then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 min.

5. Remove soup from heat and using either an immersion stick to blend the soup in the pot OR ladle soup into a blender and blend soup with the fresh rosemary leaves until smooth and free of chunks.

6. Pour smooth soup back into pot (if in blender) and warm over low heat until heated through – serve hot with a sprinkling of fresh pepper and a grating of cheddar cheese on top for garnish.

BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP

INGREDIENTS:

1 TBSP extra-virgin olive oil

1 head of broccoli, washed and sliced into 1/4-inch slices (florets and stems included)

2 cups yellow onion, chopped

1/2 TSP sea salt

1 clove garlic, minced

4 cups veggie stock

1/2 cup white wine

2/3 cup milk

1/2 cup old cheddar, shredded

salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Heat a LARGE soup pot over medium heat and add the oil.

2. Add the onion and salt, and sauté for about 5 min, stirring often, until  onion begins to turn translucent.

3.  Add broccoli and stir well – and cook for 5 min more (until the broccoli is vibrantly green(.

4.  Add veggie stock and wine, cover, and bring to a boil – then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 min.

5. Remove soup from heat and using either an immersion stick to blend the soup in the pot OR ladle soup into a blender and blend soup  until smooth and free of large chunks.

6. Pour smooth soup back into pot (if in blender), add in milk and grated cheese and warm over low heat until cheese is melted and soup is heated through.

7.  Serve hot with an additional grating of cheddar cheese on top for garnish!

Tomato & Green Bean Salad April 9, 2009

Think refreshing mint meets crunchy beans – with a kick of garlic and balsamic.  There … easy!  This refreshing salad is a go-to of mine when company’s coming – wickedly easy, cheap and tastes great the next day too.  Looks gorgeous served on a big white platter.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups of fresh French-style green beans, end chopped off and cut in half

1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced in half length-wise

1 TBSP garlic, minced

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup good Balsamic vinegar

a pinch of sugar

salt and pepper to taste

1 hand-full of fresh mint, finely chopped

DIRECTIONS:

1) Steam or boil green beans until just starting to tender.

2) Immediately after cooking, bathe green beans in cold water to stop the cooking process.

3) In a small jar or bowl, whisk together remaining ingredients (execpt for mint).

4) Place green beans, tomatoes and mint in a large bowl and combine, then add dressing and mix thoroughly, but gently.

Ready to serve!