The CSA Food Project

The CSA Food Project

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Fall (09) CSA in review...

Happy Thanksgiving...have a safe and healthy winter...enjoy all the soups and creations you made with your fall bounty...will be in touch about Season 2010 in due course. Keep checking the blog for recipes and events, and continue to share your food fun.





















Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Here is one I am sorry to see go

I was just in Whole Foods this week looking for the new edition. I was very sad to read the news. Hopefully someone will take over this publication. It would be a shame to lose it!


Edible Chesapeake to cease publication

Tuesday, November 24, 2009, 10:07am EST

Renee Brooks Catacalos will cease publication of Edible Chesapeake, the local food magazine, she announced on the publication's Web site Tuesday (hat tip to Food Service Monthly's Michael Birchenall, who alerted me to the news).

She said the decision was based on "much reflection on how best to balance the needs of my family and myself as a small business owner, with the needs of the local food community." It is unclear whether the publication will continue under a new publisher.

Edible Chesapeake has published quarterly since 2005.

Source: http://washington.bizjournals.com/washington/blog/top_shelf/2009/11/edible_chesapeake_to_cease_publication.html?ana=e_du_pub

Favorite Food Magazines - Part 3 of 3

Favorite Food Magazine #3: Everyday Food

Everyday Food is my newest addition to my cooking magazine subscriptions. From the kitchens of Martha Stewart, this publication is the perfect weekday resource for meal ideas. If you are familiar with the PBS series Everyday Food - this is the print companion. I am sure you have seen it at the grocery check out aisle and never even noticed it.

I know ... Martha Stewart... run for the hills!!!! Read on then decided.

Don't let the small size of the publication fool you. In fact, this publication is the “Anti Martha Stewart” for food. Forget all that fancy pretentious hosting and entertaining stuff that Martha Stewart is known for.

Everyday Food lives up to it title by focusing on (well) Everyday Food. It is a down and dirty source for easy-to-make recipes during the weekdays. When I am lacking the culinary creativity or just need a starting idea - this is a good go to publication. There is a rich range of recipes in the publication

Everything in the publication is easy to read from the articles to the recipes. Photos are stunning. Also, there is a rich range of information from spotlight ingredients, to cook once - eat twice, to kids favorites and more.

The recipes are simple and designed for quick cooking. Planning a week's worth of meals is very easy with Everyday Food. While I probably know most of the recipes that are shown, it is very nice not to have to think and just do. I would say if you got a tween or teen into cooking, this is a great publication to inspire their cooking juices.



Below are links to Amazon.com for subscriptions. Should you be inclined to subscribe to any of these, please consider doing so from the links. The CSA Food Project receives a small bounty for each subscription that helps to offset the costs of running the blog.

Favorite Food Magazines - Part 2 of 3

Favorite Cooking Magazine #2: Cooking Light

Cooking Light has been delivered to my house for well over a decade. While I personally tend to focus on the spring and summer issues, the publication offers great seasonal recipes.

I particularly enjoy their spotlight topics such as regional cuisine or seasonal cookery. Unlike other culinary publications, this one offers simple direct recipes without all the "over the top" culinary snobbery. The recipes are easy to make and for the most part utilize common ingredients.

I also like that each issue covers a wide range of recipes from breakfast to late night desserts. If you fret hosting and holiday meals, fear no more - Cooking Light does an exceptional job of everything from the backgrounder to the menu to the gameplan for preparing the meal . It just does not get much easier than this.

There are recipes focused on kid friendly, budget cooking, vegetarian, super fast cooking, make ahead. In addition to a rich range of topics and recipes, the publication has a clean and easy to navigate design that is very friendly and inviting.

It is clear that the publication skews towards a female readership. While I do not fit their common demographic, their articles outside of food are well written and easy to digest making the publication an easy read. I particularly enjoy their travel and enthic food specials that do an exception job in a few pages of helping you to better understand the cuisine and key ingredient of a particular cuisine from around the world.

Cooking Light is my choice gift for folks that are interested in cooking and want to learn more.



Should you decided that you want to subscribe to any of the recommended magazines, we ask that you use the links attached on this site. There is no additional cost to you if you purchase and we get a small commission that we use to keep this website running.

Happy Thanksgiving

Monday, November 23, 2009

Favorite Food Magazines - Part 1 of 3

Another question that was recently asked of me was - what are my favorite food related magazines?

This is a tough one, I get a lot of them and they all serve different purposes. On the flip side, I personally feel that there are many food magazines that are not very good either because of the quality of the recipes/articles or the complexity of the recipes.

While I read some for inspiration and others for what new in food trends, the ones that I find the most useful are the ones that do the thinking for me. I have to confess ... even I have those days when I just don't want to think about food or cooking but got to get a meal to the table for the family.

While I have a "small library" of cookbooks (600 and counting), I find that I am reaching consistently for are three cooking magazines that I thought I would suggest.

Each of the three are excellent for home cookery and offer the best of healthy, easy and seasonal. All are under $15 (little more than a dollar an issue), visually stimulating and focus on simplicity in cooking with great recipes.


Favorite Food Magazine #1: Eating Well

I have been a long time fan and subscriber of Eating Well. It is a wonderfully designed publication focused on healthy, fresh cooking.

This publication make healthy eating a way of life with great, easy recipes (most 45 minutes or less). There is a ton of information on the latest nutrition science in easy to understand language. Lastly, I find the layout exceptional and the photography excellent and mouth watering.

The recipes run seasonal and are a great compliment to your CSA share. If you are looking for sustainable cooking this is a great source for ideas on seasonal cooking.

The publication always has interesting and new idea that are pushing the new boundaries of "eating well". More recently, the publication has become very committed to quick cooking and make ahead solutions recogonizing that we all dont have tons of time to cook during the weekdays.

It is for that I noted above and more that they are a top magazine pick for me personally. Not to mention EatingWell has been named one of the top 3 food magazine for the last 3 years (Folio: Eddie Award). It also won a James Beard Foundation Journalism Award for nutrition reporting in 2008 and an IACP Bert Greene Award for best food essay. The EatingWell Diet was named one of the top 10 best diet cookbooks last year by Health Magazine and CNN.

In my eyes, there is just no way to go wrong with a subscription to Eating Well if you are planning on the maintaining your CSA share in the coming year.




Should you decided that you want to subscribe to any of the recommended magazines, we ask that you use the links attached on this site. There is no additional cost to you if you purchase and we get a small commission that we use to keep this website running.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Autumn Compote

As we are getting closer to Thanksgiving and the holiday season, it is time to start thinking about more formal meals.

Compote is a classic autumn recipe that is a great accompaniment to any roasted protein meal like turkey or chicken.

Compote is essentially dessert of stewed or baked fruit that is served as a side for the main course. In a warped way, it’s a way to get dessert out before dessert time!

Nice thing about compotes - they are easy to make and most people really like them. Sweet and made with familiar ingredients, they make a great side for a Thanksgiving meal.

If you want to make it ahead, simply cook until it’s halfway done. After cooled, refrigerate until you are ready to use. When you reheat, it will cook the remainder of the way. You might need to add some more liquid (cider preferred) to the pot during re-heat.

The recipe calls for squash. It is pretty flexible. Use what is available. This could be butternut, pumpkin, delecata, etc.

Ingredients

  • 2 shallots, minced
  • 2 apples, peeled and diced
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 pear, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups squash, peeled and diced
  • 1 cups stock (either vegetable or chicken)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider
  • 3 tbsp raisins
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme to taste (or 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
Process
  1. Sauté the onion and shallots in olive oil until soft

  2. Add squash and cook 5 more minutes over medium heat

  3. Stir in fruit, stock and cider

  4. Simmer until squash is soft but not mushy (about 12 to 15 mins)

  5. Add fresh herbs**

  6. Serve immediately as a hot side

**Add fresh herbs at the end of the cooking to maintain their taste and texture. Dried herbs should be added with the liquid to allow their flavor to permeate the dish

Thursday, November 19, 2009

"Caramel Toffee" Apple Cider (alcoholic)


There are just those cold nights when you want something warm, sweet and good for the spirits. Here is a great little recipe to keep close at hand for those nights.

It’s a warm cider drink with some toffee liqueur added. What you end up with is a sweet, candy like drink that is warm for the body and soul!

If the toffee liqueur does not do it for you, applejack brandy is a fine substitute.

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz toffee liqueur
  • 1/2 ozhot apple cider
  • whipped cream (optional)

Process:

  1. Combine hot cider with toffee liqueur

  2. Top with whipped cream if desired

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

New Mini Series Next Week - Top Food Mags


I am often asked by many folks - what books and magazines do I recommend for cooking.

Next week, I am going to run a mini mags series highlight a few magazines that I would recommend for the home cook. These are not your "uber chef" publications that the pro's use.

These are publications that have great content and recipes for cooking at home. In fact, these are magazines that I personally subscribe to and use on a regular basis for ideas.

Just so you know, we have joined the Amazon affiliate program. Should you decided that you want to subscribe to any of the recommended magazines, we ask that you use the links attached on this site. There is no additional cost to you if you purchase and we get a small commission that we use to keep this website running.

Cranberry Sinner



If you think amaretto sours go down easy... meet its cousin cocktail.

Bourbon, amaretto, and ginger ale combine to improve on overly sweet sour mix.

The addition of the cranberry sauce is added for a new twist on flavor and leftovers.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz ginger ale
  • 1 oz cranberry citrus sauce
  • 1 oz bourbon (i.e.: Maker’s Mark)
  • 1 oz amaretto
  • Lime wedges
  • Ice
Process
  1. Combine cranberry sauce, bourbon, and amaretto in a cocktail shaker

  2. Muddle until most of the cranberries and citrus are broken up

  3. Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake vigorously

  4. Pour contents into a highball glass (do not strain)

  5. Top with ginger ale and squeeze lime wedge over top

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Broccoli Cheddar Soup


I think I have reached my quote of broccoli consumption for this year. In an attempt to use more of the CSA broccoli in one recipe, I offer up a hearty broccoli soup with cheddar cheese.

The recipe has all the classic elements of a great soup - stock, herbs, butter and cream. While you can make some substitutes, I would suggest making the recipe as is, each of the ingredients adds to the richness of the meal.

This is a great make-ahead soup. The soup can be made the day before. Just cool slightly before putting in the refrigerator to cool completely. After cooled, cover and keep refrigerated. Just reheat to a simmer when ready to use.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs fresh broccoli stems and florets separated and chopped into bite-size pieces
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 1/2 cups vegetable stock or canned low-salt vegetable broth
  • 2 cups (packed) grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • 6 tbsp butter, room temperature
  • 3 tbsp all purpose flour
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh tarragon or 1/2 tsp dried tarragon
Process
  1. Melt 3 tablespoons butter in heavy medium pot over medium-high heat
  2. Add broccoli stems and onion; sauté until onion is translucent (about 5 to 7 mins)
  3. Add garlic and tarragon and sauté for one additional minute
  4. Add stock and bring to a boil
  5. Simmer uncovered until broccoli is tender (about 15 to 20 mins)
  6. Slowly stir in cream
  7. Mix remaining 3 tablespoons butter with flour in small bowl to make paste
  8. Whisk paste into soup
  9. Add broccoli florets and simmer soup until it thickens and florets are tender (about 5 mins) - make sure to stir frequently
  10. To finish, preheat oven boiler
  11. Place 6 ovenproof soup bowls on baking sheet
  12. Divide soup among bowls and sprinkle 1/3 cup cheese over each
  13. Broil until cheese melts and bubbles around edges (about 3 to 5 mins)

Monday, November 16, 2009

Skillet Crusted Potatoes


Unless you hate potatoes, you are going to be hard pressed to find anyone that doesn’t like this dish.

Potatoes that are crispy... what is there not to like?

This is a classic three ingredient recipe that you will need to make in volume because there will be none left.

Key to getting the potatoes crispy is high heat and patience. Potatoes are one of those ingredients that take forever to get started but when they start to crisp it will happen very quickly.

Feel free to interchangeable swap out the potatoes - just make sure they are new potatoes. New potatoes are not a separate variety of potato, but younger versions of other varieties. The skin of new potatoes is generally thinner and flakier than the skin found on older potatoes. For this reason, new potatoes are rarely if ever peeled before cooking.

These potatoes are at their best when browned just before serving.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lbs small boiling potatoes
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves - chopped
  • sea salt
Process
  1. In a large saucepan cover potatoes with salted cold water by 1 inch and simmer potatoes until just tender (about 10-15 mins)

  2. Drain potatoes in a colander and cool

  3. Potatoes may be prepared up to this point 1 day ahead and chilled, covered

  4. Halve potatoes crosswise

  5. In a large non-stick skillet heat 1 1/2 tbsp oil, 1/2 tbsp thyme and salt to taste over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking

  6. Add half of potatoes - cut sides down

  7. Cook potatoes, without stirring, until cut sides are golden and crusty (about 5 mins)

  8. Toss potatoes, shaking skillet, to coat with oil

  9. Transfer cooked potatoes to a serving bowl

  10. Cook remaining potatoes with remaining oil and thyme as above

My New Favorite Book - Ratio: The Simple Codes Behind the Craft of Everyday Cooking


Ever since Michael Ruhlman first mentioned this concept of RATIOS in the Soul of a Chef - I have been all over this idea. As he started pondering this book on his blog years ago, I've been eagerly anticipating its arrival of this publication and I have not disappointed.

This is not a cookbook -- indeed, it is an anti-cookbook. Those expecting complex recipes, or the "best" way to make something, will be dissatisfied.

This is a manual for real cooks who want to understand the fundamental underpinnings of what makes food …“FOOD”… in order to play, tweak, and personalize their methods in infinite variations.

It's a book for culinary explorers who don't wish to be, pardon the pun, spoon-fed.
Recipes certainly have their place and can be useful. However, for many only using recipes puts you into a position of not ever learning anything and falling continuously into the "I can't cook" mantra.

Learning the ratios and the ideas behind them will leave you feeling that not only that you might be able to accomplish something … but gave you an understanding and appreciation for why people might enjoy cooking.

Before you say it’s not for me, there are basically two pages of core ratios that can me mixed and matched in dozens upon dozens of ways. Once you got the base ratio you are free to experiment. Once you understand the ratios – say goodbye to the recipes – you won’t need them!

I would say that this book makes an excellent gift for anyone that is truly loves the art of cooking!

Friday, November 13, 2009

Old School Apple Cider - Homemade!!!

One of my favorite childhood memories of autumn was apple cider. There are few things that complete a cool fall day like a nice warm cup of apple cider.

After you consider what it takes to make apple cider you might think twice about purchasing it at the store.

It is super simple to make and is a great activity to do with the kids after an afternoon of picking apples at the local orchard.

Another benefit to making your own cider is that you are in control of how sweet you want your cider. Feel free to adjust the sugar to your tastes and to the sweetness of the apples.

Ingredients

  • 10-12 medium apples
  • 1/2-1 cup sugar
  • 3-4 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 whole nutmeg
Process
  1. Wash and quarter the apples - don't worry about peeling or removing the seeds from the apples

  2. Toss the apples into a large stock pot

  3. Add the sugar and spices and then enough water to cover

  4. Bring to a boil and boil uncovered for one hour

  5. Turn down the heat, cover and simmer for at least two hours

  6. Using a potato masher, mash the contents of the pot

  7. After mashing allow the apples to cool

  8. Once cooled, strain over a pitcher or pot

  9. If desired, you can put the pulp into cheesecloth and squeeze to remove even more of the juice

  10. Store the cider in the refrigerator and reheat before serving

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Spicy Broccoli - Pickled

In my attempt to offer you different and healthy ways to deal with your CSA share, I thought this was something a bit off the beaten path but highly interesting (at least to me).

The roots of pickling began as a way to preserve food for out-of-season use and for long journeys, especially by sea.

I find pickling to be a great and easy way to extent the season bounty without the guilt of tossing good food gone bad. This recipe as prepared will keep for several weeks in the fridge.

So the next time you are facing a situation of too much of a particular produce item... think pickling.

The recipe below was adapted from The Joy of Pickling by Linda Ziedrich (see below). This book is considered one of the bibles of pickling and a must have for anyone interested in pickling foods.

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch broccoli (about 1 1/5 pounds), florets and peeled, sliced stems
  • 2 1/2 cups white wine vinegar
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 2 tbsp chopped garlic
  • 1 tbsp dill seeds
  • 1 tbsp coarsely grated (or chopped) ginger
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
  • 1 tbsp T vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
Process
  1. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli with the garlic, ginger, dill, mustard, and oil

  2. Pack the mixture into a 2 quart jar

  3. Combine the vinegar and water, and dissolve the salt in the liquid

  4. Pour the liquid over the broccoli

  5. Cap the jar and store the jar in the fridge at least one week before eating.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Citrus and Lemongrass Poached Salmon

For you salmon lovers, here is a very delicate, light and very healthy preparation. The flavors are subtitle from the lemongrass and citrus creating this extremely smooth flavor that melts in your mouth.

In general poaching is a great cooking technique that is often overlooked for "high heat" cooking. Poaching is particularly suitable for fragile food, such as eggs, poultry, and fish which might easily fall apart or dry out.

The key to poaching is to keep the heat low and to keep the poaching time to a bare minimum. This will preserve the flavor of the food.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lbs salmon fillet
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 quart vegetable stock
  • 1 quart orange juice
  • 2 cups white wine
  • 2 cups lemongrass - chopped
  • 2 tbsp garlic - minced
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp white pepper
Process
  1. Remove skin from salmon, then cut into desired portions

  2. In a large pot, combine stock, orange juice, white wine, onion, garlic and lemongrass

  3. Season with salt and white pepper

  4. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to a low boil

  5. Place the salmon in the poaching liquid until flaky and tender (about 5 mins)

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Balsamico Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower


In the realm of cooking techniques, I am pretty sure roasting would not rise to the top of the list for cauliflower. However, when prepared correctly, roasted cauliflower is very delicious.

The key to roasting cauliflower is to keep the florets in large thick pieces. A little olive oil and herbs and you are good to go. The parts that are in contact with the pan while roasting will brown. That browning creates a wonderful nutty, sweet flavor.

The sweet, nutty flavor is finished off in this recipe with the balsamic and parm that just compliment the roasted cauliflower that much more.

Ingredients

  • 8 cups cauliflower florets
  • 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried marjoram
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • freshly ground pepper to taste
Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 450°F

  2. Prepare the cauliflower by cutting into 1-inch-thick slices

  3. Toss cauliflower, oil, marjoram, salt and pepper in a large bowl

  4. Spread on a large rimmed baking sheet and roast until starting to soften and brown on the bottom (about 15 to 20 mins)

  5. Toss the cauliflower with vinegar and sprinkle with Parm cheese

  6. Return to the oven and roast until the cheese is melted and any moisture has evaporated (about 5 to 10 mins)

NYT - A White House Chef Who Wears Two Hats

This is a pretty interesting article on Sam Kass - White House Chef and politico from the NY Times. Worth a read before it vanishes:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/04/dining/04kass.html?_r=3&8dpc

Why is my broccoli purple?!?

Purple broccoli is simply a different variety of broccoli, sometimes called purple head broccoli or rosalind broccoli. It is very similar to regular broccoli except its florets have a purplish color to them and the heads of purple broccoli are typically smaller. Its taste is the same as regular broccoli and it can be use in the same manner.

The purple color is due to formation of anthocyanins, the plant pigments also found in red cabbage and in red wine which have been shown to have positive health benefits.

All varieties of broccoli have a pretty impressive nutritional profile, however, the darker colors of florets contain more beta carotene and vitamin C than those with lighter greens.

Note, the purple color fades to green when cooked.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Sweet Potato Hummus

Here is a recipe just in time for Thanksgiving! This is a delicious dish with layers of flavor from sweet, to citrusy to creamy to earthy - all at the same time. It is called a hummus because of its aromatics from the toasted cumin. It’s a dip... calling it a hummus makes it a bit more exotic.

As far as preparation, it’s easy! Because you are looking for cooked sweet potato flesh, just microwave the potatoes until soft. Add all ingredients in food processor and blend.

The recipe can be made up to two days in advance. I would suggest that you hold off on the zest until time of serving to avoid overpowering the dish with citrus.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb sweet potatoes
  • 1 large lemon, juiced
  • 1 tbsp tahini
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tsp brown sugar or Splenda brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tsp toasted pistachios or pine nuts
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/8 tsp fresh ground black pepper
  • zest of one orange
Process:
  1. Toast pine nuts or pistachio nuts - set aside to cool

  2. Toast the cumin seeds on low heat

  3. After toasted, crush cumin seeds**

  4. Bake or microwave sweet potatoes until fully cooked

  5. Allow the potatoes to cool- retain the sweet potato flesh - remove the skins and discard

  6. Add seeds and sweet potato to the food processor together with the lemon juice, salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, olive oil, brown sugar, orange zest and tahini

  7. Blend until smooth and creamy

  8. Adjust to taste if needed adding more salt or sugar depending on the sweetness of the potatoes

  9. Sprinkle with feta and toasted pistachios or pine nuts

** Seeds can be crushed by using a mortar and pestle or by smashing between a saucepan and cutting board

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Tom Yum Goong (Thai Lemongrass Soup)


For those of you not familiar with Thai cookery - Tom Yom Goong is a classic spicy and aromatic broth. Below is an easy adaptation on this classic that can be made anytime because it appeals to more commonly accessible ingredients.

With more traditional preparations, shrimp is add. For this adaptation, the shrimp has been omitted.

In general, each of the ingredients in the recipe are each "very powerful". The key is to incorporate the ingredients to achieve a harmonious balance of hot and sour - this soup by no means should be bland.

The preparation is very simple. The bulk of the flavor will be coming from the lemongrass. Other than making sure that the lemongrass stalks are clean, you do not need to fuss with separation of the inner and outer leaves. Just chop and drop in the pot.

To simplify access to ingredients, Serrano chile peppers are used. However, if you have access to Thai bird chiles use them. Thai chiles are available at most Asian grocers. You can control the heat from the peppers - if you want less heat, remove the seeds and ribs of the peppers before use.

Keep in mind, you are in control. You can control the intensity of the dish - always start with less and add more if you have any doubts.

The recipe serves very nicely with cooked rice and is very flexible to other additions including:

  • mushrooms - fresh or canned (drained) - simmer until tender
  • canned bamboo or water chestnuts
  • a dab of chile paste for additional heat and complexity
  • Kaffir lime leaves - removed prior to serving
  • cooked chicken or shrimp
Ingredients:
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 to 3 lemongrass stalks, cut into 2-inch lengths
  • 2 serrano chiles seeded and chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms
  • 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
  • 1 tbsp chile paste (optional)
  • juice of half a lime
  • fresh cilantro - for garnish
Process:
  1. Finely chop half of the ginger

  2. To a large pot, add the chopped ginger, the remaining chunk of ginger, the chicken broth, lemongrass and chiles

  3. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes

  4. Add the chile paste if using, add additions such as mushrooms to the pot

  5. Simmer until ingredients are cooked through (about 1 to 2 mins)

  6. Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice

  7. Discard the large pieces of lemongrass, ginger and chiles (if you opted not to chop them)

  8. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with cilantro

Turnips- what to do?

Turnips are a root vegetable and a member of the cabbage family. They're a good source of Vitamin B6, Folate, Calcium, Potassium and Copper, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C and Manganese.

Think about using them as you would other root veggies.

  • Roast them with carrots, a little olive oil, and fresh herbs.
  • Mash them with potatoes. Add in a bunch of cloves of garlic during the boil.
  • Thinnly slice a turnip (yes, raw) and use in a salad as you would a radish or add to a stir-fry.

How about:

Curried Turnip and Apple Soup

  • 3 tbs butter/ oil
  • 1 small chopped onion
  • 2 ribs chopped celery
  • 1 pound peeled and chopped turnips
  • 2 small cored and chopped tart apples
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 cups chicken/veggie stock
  • 1/3 cup raw rice

In a large saucepan, heat the butter/oil. Add the onion, celery, turnip, and apple. Cook until wilted. Stir in the curry powder and parsley; cook for another minute. Add the stock, bring to a boil, and add the rice. Lower the heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
Puree the mixture in a blender or food processor. Season with salt and pepper.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Asparagus, Blood Oranges and Shallots


Talk about three of my favorite ingredients that are just a great marriage of flavors. It will have your senses dancing!

Made from ingredients that not too long ago were considered hard to find, this is what I call a dish with "depth". That is depth in flavor and complexity. But for all of its tremendous flavor it is very simple to make.

I would shoot for pencil thin asparagus spears for this dish. The larger spears are tougher and change the mouth feel and flavor in my opinion. Also, make sure that you have fresh garlic and shallot for this dish. You want the rich flavor and bite that comes with the freshness.

Lastly, watch your heat levels when you cook. Too much heat and you will burn up the ingredients and destroy their textures.

Ingredients:

  • 8-10 shallots, peeled, quartered lengthwise
  • 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced
  • 2 blood oranges, peeled, thinly sliced into rounds
  • 1 bunch asparagus, ends snapped, left whole
  • grated zest of 1 lemon
  • mirin*
  • balsamic vinegar
  • sea salt
  • extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
  1. On medium heat, place a small amount of oil, garlic and shallots in a deep skillet

  2. When the shallots begin to sizzle add a pinch of salt and sauté until the shallots are quite limp and beginning to color (About 4 to 6 mins)

  3. Add lemon zest and sprinkle generously with mirin

  4. Lower heat, add asparagus spears and cover

  5. Cook until the asparagus is just tender and a vivid green

  6. Remove from heat and stir gently to combine

  7. Arrange blood orange rings around the rim of a serving platter and spoon asparagus and shallots into the center

  8. Drizzle the entire dish with balsamic vinegar and serve immediately

* Mirin can be found in the Asian section of your local grocer or at the local Asian market. It is a core pantry staple for Asian cookery.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a common ingredient in Thai cooking and curries. Usually the tender white part of the lemongrass stalk is used for adding to dishes, but the blades can be used for stocks or infusions or even dried to use in potpourri and tea. So, don't waste any part of it!

You can grind the stalks and use this for seasoning. Or you can treat it more like bay leaf and leave it in larger pieces that can be removed before serving.


***Boil a handful of lemongrass blades in water for 5 minutes for a Lemongrass Tea. [You can easily freeze the blades (in a ziplock bag) to use whenever you want to make some tea.]

A recent study by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the department of Science and technology ( DOST ) claims that every 100g of lemongrass when boiled can contain up to 24.205 micrograms of beta-carotene the anti-oxidant that scientists believe can help prevent cancer. Another DOST study shows that lemon grass oil has the potential as a tropical eye medication against keratomycosis, an inflammation of cornea often associated with burning or blurring of vision.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Article: Parents can help their children grow to love vegetables


Interesting Article in USA Today regarding how parents can help their kids to love veggies. It is worth a read for sure!

Click Here

Sweet Potato Soup Fusion


OK... its November. We are officially a few weeks away from Thanksgiving... and dare I say - two months until the end of the year.

As I start to think about holiday entertaining and "the Holidays", I am always looking for something different.

Yes, I am that person that is not satisfied with the "traditional seasonal fare". Maybe bad childhood memories of holidays past, but more likely the desire to explore the full universe of food that is out there. That said, I am going to start to offer up some different recipes that you may want to consider for this holiday season.

This soup is truly a fusion of ingredients. Consider each ingredients and its contribution to the overall dish: sweet potatoes for sweetness, cinnamon/nutmeg to enhance the sweetness, curry/bay offer the earthiness, ginger/red pepper for the bite, and thyme that offers a refreshing overtone. This is culinary fusion!

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 lbs sweet potatoes
  • 1 small bay leaf
  • 6 cups vegetable broth or stock
  • 2 cups onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 3/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg
  • Chopped roasted peanuts (for garnish)
  • Sour cream (for garnish)
Preparation:
  1. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter
  3. Add ginger, celery and onion - cook until soft (about 6 to 8 mins)
  4. Add curry powder, cinnamon, cayenne and nutmeg
  5. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly
  6. Add potatoes, broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper
  7. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil
  8. Lower heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are soft and cooked (about 25 to 30 mins)
  9. Transfer soup in batches to a blender or food processor and puree - Alternatively you can use an immersion blender in the pot if you have one
  10. Thin soup with milk to desired texture
  11. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and chopped peanuts

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Mustard Greens?!?!?

Mustard greens are related to kale, cabbage, and collard greens. They are the peppery leafy greens of the mustard plant. They are often less bitter than kale or collard greens, and more peppery, like arugula.


The easiest way to prepare mustard greens is to saute.

  • saute some thinly sliced onions in olive oil until they begin to brown and caramelize (maybe 5-10 min). Then toss in a couple of cloves of minced garlic

  • Throw in your mustard greens, washed and torn into large pieces, and cook until the greens begin to wilt.

  • Toss with some sesame oil or lemon juice and salt/pepper to taste.

Get creative and substitute mustard greens for spinach. How about fettuccine with mustard greens?

  • Saute as shown above, but maybe use mushrooms instead of onions.

  • Toss into cooked fettuccine with some butter, parsely, and grated parmesan cheese

Mustard Greens have lots of health promoting factors. They provide good to excellent amounts of 9 vitamins, 7 minerals, dietary fiber and protein.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Healthy Radish Chips (Baked)

Finding new and creative ways to prepare radishes can sometimes be a challenge.

Since we have had much success in the "chips" and "crunchy" category for recipes, I thought I would offer up the next installment: Radish Chips.

This preparation is low in calories and healthy. Essentially a healther alternative for high fat, "bad for you chips".

The recipe as listed below is for one (1) serving. This recipe scales very easily and will adjust for whatever serving size you are looking for. Cooking times in the microwave and oven will vary based on the volume that you are cooking. So adjust accordingly.

Ingredients

  • 10 radishes
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic salt
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

  2. Thinly slice radishes

  3. Steam in microwave for 5 minutes

  4. Put in bowl with spices and mix

  5. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, flip the chips, and bake for another 10 minutes

  6. Allow to cool and add additional spice if desired

Monday, October 26, 2009

Soup Trio: Turnip, Carrot and Split Pea

As that reality sets in that we are getting into the colder months, I find myself looking for more soup and stew related recipes.

From my perspective, one of the real benefits of soup is that most (repeat - most) soups are pretty healthy, easy to make and very filling making them a meal to themselves. I also love that you can make soup once and benefit from it for many days to come or freeze it for use on a later date.

In this recipe, the combination of turnip, carrot and split pea are excellent and highly complementary with tones of sweetness and earthiness. The vinegar splash is a nice finish/garnish for the dish.

For those of you that subscribe to the nothing left behind theory, you can use the turnip greens in the soup. Simply, clean the turnip greens and chop. They will be added at the very end of the cooking process to assure that they remain intact.

Ingredients:

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cup vegetable stock
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup turnip, chopped
  • 3/4 cup dried split peas
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Sea salt & fresh ground pepper to taste
  • splash of vinegar
Process:
  1. Wash peas and (a) soak them overnight in cold water or (b) in hot water for one hour
  2. Drain peas and set aside
  3. Heat the oil in a saucepan and sauté the onion until light brown
  4. Add the carrots and turnip and continue cooking for 5 additional minutes
  5. Add the peas, bay leaf, and stock
  6. Stir well, cover the pan, and bring to a simmer
  7. Cook for 60 to 90 minutes until the peas are really tender
  8. Stir occasionally and add water if necessary
  9. Season to taste with salt and pepper
  10. If desired, stir in turnip greens 1 to 2 minutes before removing soup from heat
  11. Serve with a splash of vinegar

Friday, October 23, 2009

Homemade Apple Juice

I stumbled upon this page today and thought I would share it. If you find yourself home from the apple orchid with too many apples - here is your solution!

Make apple juice. I doubt anyone would debate how much better fresh homemade is over that sugared mass processed stuff you find the grocery store.

I always think of these types of recipes as a great teaching activity for kids to learn about cooking, nutrition and sustainability. Let me know what you think!

Homemade Cloudy Apple Juice

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Sopa de Lima (aka Lime Soup)

Sopa de Lime is a traditional Yucatan Lime Soup. Now before you write off this soup by its name, let’s take a little bit more of a look at the ingredients and how they play off each other.

Literally translated as “lime soup”, this is more of a spicy chicken with tomato soup. Contrary to the name, limes are not the major ingredient in this savory soup. Limes are used to provide a nice tang to the soup.

It is basically a chicken vegetable soup flavored with limes and made nicely hot (if desired) with a touch of hot peppers. The avocado offers a smooth, creamy element that plays very nicely off the tang, acid and heat.

The soup is a light but filling dish. It is a great and different soup which can be served with dinner or by itself.

As a step saver, do not hesitate to use the meat of a rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. Also, you are in control of the heat, if you wish to have none then omit the hot peppers.

There are variations of this recipe that call for Chihuahua or Monterey Jack cheese. I personally do not feel that it is necessary for the recipes. So shave off a few calories by omission of the cheese.

Ingredients:

  • 8 cups chicken stock
  • 8 ozs corn tortillas (about 6), cut into 1 inch strips
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 avocados, peeled and chopped into 1/2 inch pieces
  • 2 stick of Mexican cinnamon, broken up *
  • 1 lb chicken breast, chopped into 3/4-inch pieces
  • 1 lime, sliced thinly
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 6 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 tsp dried Mexican oregano **
  • Sea Salt to taste
  • Vegetable oil
Procedure
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F
  2. Toss the cinnamon, oregano, and cloves onto a baking sheet and toast for about 5 minutes - make sure not to burn - check after about three minutes
  3. Transfer the spices to a bowl and set aside to cool
  4. Pour the chicken stock into a saucepan and bring to a boil
  5. Add the spices and then reduce the heat to a simmer - simmer for 10 minutes
  6. Strain the stock into another pot to remove the spices
  7. Bring the stock back to a simmer and add the chicken and simmer for 10 minutes
  8. Pour in the lime juice, and season with salt to taste
  9. Meanwhile, pour a 1/4 inch of oil into a skillet set over medium-high heat
  10. When the oil is hot, add a few strips of tortilla, and cook for about 30 seconds or until crisp
  11. Drain these on a plate covered with paper towels - repeat with the rest of the strips
  12. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each bowl with tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, and lime slices
* Mexican Cinnamon - Canela is the Spanish word for cinnamon. The cinnamon used in Mexican cooking is the softer loose-bark variety grown in Ceylon rather than the more commonly found hard-stick cinnamon.

** Mexican Oregano - Mediterranean and Mexican oregano are two different plants, but because they are used in the same way and have a somewhat similar flavor they are both called oregano. Mexican oregano is stronger and less sweet, well-suited to the spicy, hot, cumin-flavored dishes of Mexico and Central America- perfect for chili and salsa

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Cauliflower & Quinoa Sushi


I got to admit, this is a pretty cool concept. Rated very high on my WOW scale. It is one of those ideas that I wish I had thought of.

If you are a sushi fan and like to experiment at home, give this one a try.

It is a powerhouse of nutrition between the cauliflower, asparagus, quinoa and smoked salmon.

I think I might need to make this for an upcoming happy hour party!!!

Follow this link for the recipe

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Sweet Potato Hummus


I am a bit ashamed to admit this but I am not the biggest sweet potato fan. It is nothing other than personal preference here.

Although it is not my first root vegetable of choice, there are times in certain recipes and preparations that I do like it. Below is one of those exceptions.

This recipe is a great and very healthy twist on traditional hummus. The addition of the sweet potato only enhances the hummus in this recipe.

While it is totally acceptable to serve with traditional pita (toasted is much better), I have found that this recipe works just as well with bagel chips, flat bread crackers, or tortilla chips.

One bonus on this recipe, it is a great make ahead. The recipe will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator after preparation.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ pieces
  • 1 can (19.5oz) chickpeas
  • 1 clove garlic, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp ground cumin
  • Coarse sea salt
  • Fresh ground black pepper
Process:
  1. Steam or microwave potatoes until tender

  2. In a food processor, combine all ingredients

  3. Puree until smooth (about 1 min) - If needed add water to thin

  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste

  5. Allow to cool before serving

Monday, October 19, 2009

Turnip and Onions Gratin

In French, the word gratin originally referred to the tasty crust left behind in a pan after baking. This leave behind was scraped off and eaten by the chef as a bonus to the dish - think of it as “chef privilege”. Le gratin is also a French idiomatic expression meaning “the upper crust” of society.

Baking something au gratin involves heavy cream and grated cheese and/or breadcrumbs. Cooked on high heat and an oven-proof dish.

A gratin is another model of culinary simplicity that turns into food mastery.

How bad can it be?

A root vegetable cooked with onions, cheese and cream until soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside.

If you want a little more additional crunch, do not hesitate to add some bread crumbs as topping to the recipe below. My preference is Japanese break crumbs (aka: Panko).

Ingredients:

  • 1 onion, chopped fine
  • 1/2 lb turnips, peeled and grated
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper - to taste
Process:
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

  2. Butter a 9-inch-square baking dish

  3. In a bowl toss the turnips and the onion with the cornstarch, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan and salt and pepper to taste

  4. Transfer the mixture to pan - patting it down ingredients

  5. Drizzle the cream evenly over the mixture

  6. Sprinkle the mixture with the remaining 1 tbsp Parmesan

  7. Bake the gratin in the middle of oven until the top is golden brown (about 25 to 30 mins)

Friday, October 16, 2009

Butternut Squash Soup - 4 Ways


Factoid: squash was such an important part of the diet of the Native Americans that they buried it along with the dead to provide them nourishment on their final journey.

As we begin to enter into the late fall and winter harvests, there is a wealth of nourishment offered from the mildly sweet flavored and finely textured winter squashes. This includes varieties such as acorn, butternut, buttercup, turban squash and pumpkin. While these squashes become available starting in August, they are at their best during October and November.

Winter squash, members of the Cucurbitaceae family and relatives of both the melon and the cucumber, come in many different varieties. While each type varies in shape, color, size and flavor, they all have hard protective skins that are difficult to pierce that gives them a long storage life of up to six months and a hollow inner seed containing cavity.

A good source of nourishment that is very low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium. It is also a good source of Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol), Thiamin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Calcium and Magnesium, and a very good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium and Manganese

The recipe below offers a base recipe for traditional creamy butternut squash soup with three flavorful variations. All make use of commonly available ingredients and are easy to make. This is a great keeper of a recipe since with a few minor tweaks you got a recipe for a different cuisine set.

Classic ButterNut Squash Soup

Base Recipe Ingredients

  • 4 to 6 cups chicken stock
  • 4 cups cubed butternut squash
  • 2/3 cup diced carrot
  • 2/3 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp fresh thyme - chopped
  • Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper - to taste

Process:

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot

Add carrot, celery and onion

Cook until vegetables have begun to soften and onion turns translucent (about 3 to 4 mins)

Add butternut squash and thyme - stir to combine with vegetables

Stir in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper

Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until squash is fork-tender (about 30 mins)

Using an immersion blender to puree soup or alternatively, let the soup cool slightly and carefully puree in batches in a traditional blender

Variation: Apple, Gorgonzola and Almond

Follow recipe above and stir a cup of applesauce into pureed soup. Garnish each serving with a tablespoon crumbled Rogue Creamery Gorgonzola, a tablespoon of toasted whole almonds, a few slices of thinly sliced apple and a small sprig of fresh thyme.

Variation: Thai Style

Stir a tablespoon red curry paste and 2 teaspoons chopped fresh ginger into carrot, celery and onion mixture. Cook until vegetables are tender and ginger is aromatic. Add squash, cook until tender, then add broth and 1/2-cup light or regular coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper. Puree soup and garnish each serving with 1 or 2 pappadums, a tablespoon toasted coconut flakes and a tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro. NOTE: Pappadums are available on the snack food aisle.

Variation: Southwestern Style

Add a tablespoon chopped chipotles in adobo** to carrot, celery and onion mixture. Cook until vegetables are tender. Add squash, cook until tender, then add broth. Season with salt and pepper. Puree soup and garnish each serving with 2 tablespoons crumbled queso fresco, a tablespoon cumin-toasted pumpkin seeds and a tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro.

** Canned chipotles in adobo sauce are available on the Mexican food aisle of your local grocer. Freeze any unused chipotles with sauce for future use.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Sweet Potato Candy...UMMM????


This is one of those “different” finds on the web. After a few reads, I have come to the conclusion, why not?

The recipe is actually a pretty standard confectionary recipe with the addition of sweet potato. It actually makes sense when you think of sweet potato as an ingredient that is high in sugar and sweetness.

I was thinking that this could be a very interesting addition to Thanksgiving this year. I will certainly test this prior to Turkey Day and share my results. Likewise, I would love to get some feedback if you beat me to making this one!

I also think that this could be a fun project to do with the kids. Making candy out of potato - what fun!!!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups light brown sugar
  • 1 cup sweet potatoes - cooked and mashed
  • 3/4 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tbsp butter or margarine
  • 1/8 tsp salt
Preparation:

1. Put sugar, milk, butter, and salt in a large pot

2. Cook over medium heat to soft-ball stage **

3. Remove from heat and allow to cool until hand can be held comfortably on bottom of pot

4. Add sweet potatoes and beat until mixture loses its gloss

5. Add pecans, mix well, and pour into buttered pan

6. Cut into squares when cool


** Knowing when you are at soft-ball stage

Soft-ball stage refers to a specific temperature range when cooking sugar syrups. Soft-Ball Stage occurs at 235-245 degrees. This stage can be determined by dropping a spoonful of hot syrup into a bowl of very cold water. In the water, use your fingers to gather the cooled syrup into a ball. If it has reached soft-ball stage, the syrup easily forms a ball while in the cold water, but flattens once removed from the water.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Easy Stir-Fry with Pasta, Green Beans and Garlic


This is one of those “staple” recipes that the entire family should enjoy. Pasta and chicken with an Asian flair….what is there not to like?

The recipe is flexible, so feel free to play around with other favorite veggies.

Due to the simplicity of the recipe, this is a great opportunity to get the kiddies involved in the preparation of the meal. I am a firm believer that it is a great (not good thing) to get kids involved in cooking. Beyond learning something about cooking and spending time with your kids, meal preparation becomes an ownership thing for your children.

Kids that are involved in the preparation meals are more likely (at the minimum) to taste the meal. After all, kids want the meal to be great because they made it. A little positive feedback as a parent about how good the meal is certainly does not hurt either.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb uncooked pasta (linguine, spaghetti or thin spaghetti is preferred)
  • 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts - cut into slivers
  • 1 lb green beans - trimmed and cut in half
  • 4 cloves garlic - minced
  • 2 red bell peppers, ribs and seeds removed, diced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tsp olive oil
Process:
  1. Prepare pasta according to package directions - drain when cooked - set aside

  2. In a large non-stick wok or skillet warm 1 teaspoon of the oil over high heat

  3. Add the chicken and stir-fry until firm and opaque (about 4 mins)

  4. When cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside

  5. Add the second teaspoon of oil to the pan and reduce to medium heat

  6. Add green beans, cook for 7 minutes covered

  7. Uncover, add red pepper, stir well and cook an additional 5 minutes

  8. Add the garlic and stir-fry until aromatic (about 1 min)

  9. Stir in the teriyaki sauce and the chicken broth

  10. Heat to a simmer and then toss with the chicken and pasta

  11. Serve immediately

Monday, October 12, 2009

Crustless Swiss Chard Quiche


Looking for a breakfast or brunch option for your Swiss chard, then here you go: Crustless Swiss Chard Quiche.

Unlike traditional quiche, this recipe is a bit lighter in the fat and carbs department with the removal of the crust and heavy cream.

For the shredded cheese - it’s your call - you can use Swiss, Cheddar, Parmesan, Asiago, Reggiano or a combination. Experiment!

Ingredients:

  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 sweet onion
  • 1/2 bunch Swiss chard
  • 2 1/2 cups shredded cheese
  • 1 cup skim milk
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Sea salt
  • Fresh ground black pepper
  • cayenne pepper (optional)
Process:
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

  2. Wash and dry Swiss chard

  3. Cut off the very ends of the chard stems and roughly chop chard ( NOTE: leave the chard stems intact)

  4. Preheat a saute pan with oil

  5. Add onion and Swiss Chard and sauté until stems are tender (do not overcook)

  6. Add salt & pepper to taste

  7. Whisk eggs and add a dash of cayenne pepper (if desired)

  8. Add milk and shredded cheese

  9. Fold in the onion/chard mixture

  10. Add additional salt & pepper to taste if needed

  11. Pour into a pie dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray

  12. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and no liquid seeps when you poke it with a knife

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Dont Forget the Chard "Chips"


If you remember back during the days of Kale overload, we spoke about kale "chips".

Well the same holds true for chard. Here is a quick refresher:

  1. Toss the chard leaves lightly in olive oil and salt

  2. Lay on a baking sheet in a single layer

  3. Bake on 350 degrees for about 10 minutes or until they go to the slightly golden crispy stage

  4. When done, let cool for a few minutes - they'll be light as air and delicious

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Gnocchi with Swiss Chard & White Beans

This is an adaptation of a recipe that was feature in Eating Well earlier in the year.

It’s a simple one dish meal that is packed with flavor. It is amazing how well the flavors and textures complement one another.

You will find shelf-stable gnocchi usually with the pastas or Italian specialty items in your local grocer.

The recipe is highly flexible. Feel free to swap out or supplement the Swiss chard with arugula and/or spinach.

Also, if you want a bit more Italian flavor add a little additional Italian herb mix or fresh herbs.


Ingredients:

  • 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable gnocchi
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning
  • 1 (15 oz) can white beans, rinsed
  • 4 cloves garlic or small shallots, minced
  • 1 medium Vidalia onion, thinly sliced
  • 6 cups Swiss chard leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely shredded Asiago cheese
  • 1 tbsp plus 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper
Preparation
  1. Heat 1 tsp oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat

  2. Add gnocchi and cook - stirring often, until plumped and starting to brown (about 6 to 8 mins)

  3. Remove gnocchi from skillet and set aside

  4. Add the remaining 1 tsp oil and onion to skillet

  5. Cook onions over medium heat for about 2 minutes

  6. Add in garlic/shallot and water

  7. Cover and cook until the onion is soft (about 5 to 7 mins)

  8. Add the Swiss chard and cook, stirring, until starting to wilt (about 1 to 2 mins)

  9. Add in the beans, tomatoes and pepper

  10. Bring contents to a simmer

  11. Add in the gnocchi and sprinkle with cheeses

  12. Cover and cook until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is bubbling (about 3 to 5 mins)

Friday, October 9, 2009

Freezing Swiss Chard

You might consider freezing some of your swiss chard for winter use.

To freeze:

1. Prepare a sink of cold water. Rinse chard through several changes of water lifting leaves out leaving sand and soil behind. Then separate the stems from the leaves.

2. Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Drop about one pound of whole leaves in boiling water, cover and blanch for 2 minutes (blanch stems for 3 minutes).

3. Remove chard from water and immerse in an ice water bath for 2 minutes. Drain.

4. Pack in zip-closure freezer bags or freezer containers, leaving no headspace. Label, date and freeze at zero degrees for up to one year.

Source: pehling bay farm

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Simple Balsamic Swiss Chard with Garlic


I have sensed the Swiss Chard panic.

I have heard the cries... What to do with the Swiss Chard - It is so beautiful but I have no idea what to do!!!

So here is a recipe that is about as simple as simple gets.

Swiss chard cooked with garlic and balsamic vinegar.

Quick, nutritious and delicious! Made with all common pantry items.

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch Swiss chard, stalks discarded, leaves cut into wide ribbons
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • Sea salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
Process
  1. Heat the olive oil on a large skillet over medium heat

  2. Add the garlic and cook until tender and aromatic (about 2 mins)

  3. Add the Swiss chard and balsamic vinegar

  4. Cook and stir until the chard is wilted and tender (about 5 mins)

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste

CSA Food Project - A Experiment in Sustainable Eating   © 2008. Template Recipes by Emporium Digital

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