Salted Caramel Apple Bites

by joycevandenbergporterNovember 5, 2015

It’s Apple Harvest time! And you know what that means… Dessert. How about a twist on the traditional apple pie? I don’t mean to knock America’s favorite dessert, because I will make a couple of those too this season, but I have been on a kick for mini or two-bite appetizers and desserts lately. This one is definitely a winner! Finely diced sweet apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar and lemon juice sauteed to tender deliciousness, then spooned into graham cracker cups and topped with a drizzle of salted caramel. All I can say is, yum!

I just picked my apple crop the other day. I have three apple trees in my orchard; Fuji, Pink Lady and Pippin. Each type of apple has it’s own flavor and texture. The Fuji apples are really sweet and firm and more yellow in color. The Pink Ladies are sweet but more delicate and the Pippin is also firm but bright white with a bit of tartness. When blended together, they are a total delight. I always make applesauce with whatever apples are left (probably in another week or so and just in time for Hanukkah and Potato Latkes-more on those later) but first I wanted to make some mini apple pies and ran across a recipe for some mini caramel apple crisps from Princess Pinky Girl which looked pretty delicious and cute too. I changed it a bit based on my own apple pie and crust recipes and to make it a little easier to prepare, aka easier clean up but she was definitely my inspiration. I also decided to make my own caramel sauce.

Alas, now I see why caramel sauce is so expensive! The sugar goes from undercooked to burnt in a nanosecond so make sure all ingredients are measured and room temperature. The first time, I didn’t caramelize the sugar enough because I was afraid it was going to burn, so the taste was right but the sugar was still a bit crunchy. I was able to fix it by reheating the jarred syrup in the microwave on 80% power and all the sugar crystals went away leaving a nice creamy syrup. Most caramel sauce is made with heavy cream, which I don’t buy, so I decided to try substituting plain yogurt and was quite happy with the results. To make a vegan sauce, use vegan butter and yogurt. Otherwise use any kind you like but I would recommend full fat yogurt, which is better for you anyway. Good fat helps your body absorb the nutrients in the food and apples have plenty of those. This caramel sauce gets thick as it cools, so warm it up in the microwave to use again. If you don’t want to go to the trouble to make homemade caramel sauce, just pick up a jar at the supermarket. There are some really delicious ones available so your minis will turn out just as good as if you made it yourself.

TIPS: Caramel Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks. For easy drizzling, try these little plastic squeeze bottles I found at World Market for $1.99 for the three bottles. They are the perfect size for drizzling sauce, dressing or toppings on pretty much anything. I have filled the white one on the far left with caramel sauce which made drizzling a breeze instead of a goopy mess.

SALTED CARAMEL APPLE BITES

CRUST

3 tablespoons sugar
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 graham crackers)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

FILLING

4 cups peeled, cored and chopped apples
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsn lemon juice
2 1/4 Tbsn flour
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 cup water

SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE (OR STORE BOUGHT)

1 cup granulated sugar
6 Tbsn salted butter, at room temperature, cut into pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt, at room temperature
1/2 tsp vanilla

If making caramel sauce, in a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt butter. Mix in sugar and cook until the mixture turns a coppery color,or reaches 350 degrees if you are using a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and taste to make sure sugar is all caramelized.

Mix in yogurt and stir using whisk for 2 more minutes. Stir in vanilla until well incorporated.

Pour hot caramel sauce in a jar and allow to cool completely. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You may need to reheat it to use again as it thickens when cooled.

If you are using graham cracker crumbs, combine them with the sugar and stir in melted butter. If you are using graham crackers, break them into smaller pieces and process in a food processor or blender into crumbs. Add sugar and melted butter and process on low until combined. The mixture should easily form a ball when pressed together but should not be wet. Add another couple of Tablespoons of melted butter if its too crumbly.

Divide the graham cracker mixture among the greased muffin tins, either 24 mini or 12 regular. Using the back of a spoon or your clean thumb, press mixture into bottom and sides, forming a small cup.

Bake minis for 5 minutes and regular for 10 at 350 degrees, and let cool. They will raise up while hot but flatten back out when cool.

Combine all filling ingredients in a medium sized saucepan and cook on medium low heat, partially covered, until softened, about 10-15 minutes. If it starts to stick add a bit more water.

Spoon filling into graham cracker cups and bake for another 5-10 minutes.

Remove from oven and let cool completely. Use a knife edge to loosen from the muffin tin ad place on a serving platter.

Drizzle with caramel sauce. Thank yourself for making these heavenly bites…

Caramel Apple Mini Bites

Servings: 24 mini or 12 regular
Time: 30-45 minutes
Difficulty: medium
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CRUST

3 tablespoons sugar
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 graham crackers)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

FILLING

4 cups peeled, cored and chopped apples
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsn lemon juice
2 1/4 Tbsn flour
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 cup water

CARAMEL SAUCE

1 cup granulated sugar
6 Tbsn salted butter, at room temperature, cut into pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt, at room temperature
1/2 tsp vanilla

In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt butter. Mix in sugar and cook until the mixture turns a coppery color, or reaches 350 degrees if you are using a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and taste to make sure sugar is all caramelized.. Mix in yogurt and stir for 2 more minutes. Mix in yogurt and stir using whisk for 2 more minutes. Stir in vanilla until well incorporated
Pour hot caramel sauce in a jar and allow to cool completely. Store in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks.
If you are using graham cracker crumbs, combine them with the sugar and stir in melted butter. If you are using graham crackers, break them into smaller pieces and process in a food processor or blender into crumbs. Add sugar and melted butter and process on low until combined. The mixture should easily form a ball when pressed together but should not be wet. Add another couple of Tablespoons of melted butter if its too crumbly.
Divide the graham cracker mixture among the greased muffin tins. either 24 mini or 12 regular. Using the back of a spoon, press mixture into bottom and sides, forming a small cup. Bake minis for 5 minutes and regular for 10 minutes at 350 degrees and let cool.
Combine all filling ingredients in a medium sized saucepan and cook on medium low heat, partially covered, until softened, about 10-15 minutes . If it starts to stick add a bit more water.
Spoon filling into graham cracker cups and bake for 5-10 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cool completely. Use a knife edge to loosen from the muffin tin and place on a serving platter.
Drizzle with caramel sauce. Thank yourself for making these heavenly bites…

Meatless Monday – Honey Glazed Winter Squash with Pomegranate

by joycevandenbergporterNovember 2, 2015

It’s finally starting to feel like Fall! We actually got a few drops of much needed rain here in California last night. It’s been six months since we have received this manna from heaven and the weatherman was positively giddy during his forecast last night. With Fall comes a fabulous selection of gorgeous squashes with their colorful but knobby exteriors and rich and sweet interiors. Their gorgeous skins make them a perfect table centerpiece and then you can turn them into a spectacular meal later. This dish combines some of my favorite flavors, rich and earthy winter squash, roasted with shallots, then tossed with toasted pine nuts and pomegranate seeds and finely, drizzled with a sweet and tangy cider vinegar and honey reduction.

This recipe from “Eating Well, November/December 2015” will work with any winter squash, except for Spaghetti Squash. Each has a unique flavor but all are nutritious and good sources of vitamins and minerals with zero fat. I have been wanting to try Delicata squash but only found three small ones in my supermarket so I also used an Acorn squash but didn’t have room in the pan for the Carnival squash that I couldn’t resist (Who can pass up something called Carnival Tutti Frutti?) so that will have to be another meal. Look at how different they are from the outside. From left to right in the photo above, is Carnival (Tutti Frutti), Acorn Squash and three small Delicata. Delicata squash is named for it’s delicate skin which is thin enough to easily cut, unlike other winter squashes that have hard shells (and you fear losing a hand just cutting them in half). As an added bonus, the skin is also edible so the squash doesn’t need to be peeled. If you are using acorn, carnival or kabocha squash, the peel looks just as pretty but it’s not edible.

I love this time of year when pomegranate seeds are readily available. Their vivid color transforms any dish into a showstopper and these nutrient rich little gems add a host of vitamins and anti-oxidants to the meal. One word of caution though; pomegranate juice stains any porous surface including a wood cutting board, so I would recommend cutting over a ceramic plate or other non-porous surface. Sometimes you can find them already seeded in the supermarket as an easy but more expensive shortcut.

TIPS: Seeds from winter squash make a great snack food, just like the popular pumpkin seeds. Just scoop the pulp and seeds from inside the squash and separate out the seeds. Toss them in olive oil and place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet, sprinkle with salt and lightly roast them at 300 degrees in the oven for about 30 minutes. If you have time, you can try soaking them in salt water for several hours or overnight before roasting for a tastier, cleaner result. Soaking helps the salt permeate the seed and makes it easier to remove the last bits of pulp.

HONEY GLAZED WINTER SQUASH WITH POMEGRANATE

5 lbs delicata or Acorn squash
4 large shallots
3 Tbsn olive oil
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup pinenuts
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
HONEY GLAZE:
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/3 – 1/2 cup honey
1/4 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
Then cut horizontally into 1 inch slices

Quarter shallots.

Toss the squash slices and shallots with olive oil, salt and pepper and divide between two roasting pans.

Roast for 30-35 minutes, alternating between top and bottom racks, or until squash is tender. (turning halfway through cooking process) While the squash is cooking, combine honey, vinegar and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer until reduced to about a 1/2 cup.

Toast pinenuts in a dry pan for several minutes until golden. Remove from heat and let cool.

Transfer squash to a serving platter, top with pomegranate seeds, pine nuts and mint. Drizzle with syrup. Serve warm.

Honey Glazed Winter Squash with Pomegranate

Servings: 4-6
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: easy
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Then cut horizontally into 1 inch slices
Quarter shallots.
Toss the squash slices and shallots with olive oil, salt and pepper and divide between two roasting pans.
Roast for 30-35 minutes, alternating between top and bottom racks, or until squash is tender. (turning halfway through cooking process)
Combine honey, vinegar and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer until reduced to about a 1/2 cup.
Toast pinenuts in a dry pan for several minutes until golden. Remove from heat and let cool.
Transfer squash to a serving platter, top with pomegranate seeds, pine nuts and mint. Drizzle with syrup. Serve warm.

Meatless Monday – Spice Crusted Whole Roasted Cauliflower

by joycevandenbergporterOctober 26, 2015

If you are looking for a dramatic (and delicious) non-meat entre, I have a goodie for you to try this holiday season. You have probably roasted cauliflower florets before, or maybe you have even made cauliflower ‘steaks’, but what about roasting the whole darn thing? I have seen photos of cauliflower cooked this way but have never tried it until now. All I can say is ‘What was I waiting for?’

I have called cauliflower a vegetable chameleon before because it is so adaptable and a great substitute for many less healthy ingredients, so I decided to take it a step further and prepare it like a ‘meat’ for roasting. I removed the stem and leaves, brushed the outer head with a thick spicy sauce made with chili powder, cumin, garlic and cayenne pepper and then roasted in a hot oven for almost an hour. The sauce becomes a spicy and yummy crust and the interior is creamy goodness. I served it in wedges. Yum!

Can cauliflower really serve as a main course and not just a side dish? It’s just a white veggie, so how can it have enough nutrients to be the star of the show? Well, in comparison it’s not going to have as much protein as a steak but it’s also not going to have all the fat and calories either. Cauliflower has a surprising number of nutrients for something so pale and unassuming. One cup cooked = 2.28 grams of protein. Cauliflower is also a good source of fiber, phytonutrients and omega 3 fatty acids, plus vitamin C, a host of B vitamins and minerals (manganese, phosphorus and potassium). Cauliflower is known to help in fighting cancer and preventing cardiovascular disease. I’m pretty sure that meat can’t make those ‘health’ claims. Just sayin’.

TIPS: For an even more colorful display, try using yellow, purple or green cauliflower. This is a fairly spicy and flavorful coating which can be toned down by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper and/or chili powder. Or you could add a half cup of plain yogurt (any kind) into the spice mix. I have made it both ways (with and without yogurt) and it looks pretty much the same either way but the yogurt makes the end result a little more mild.

SPICE CRUSTED WHOLE ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

1 head cauliflower
2 Tbsn olive oil
1 lemon, juiced (about 1/3 cup)
2 Tbsn chili powder
1 Tbsn cumin
4-5 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 Tbsn garlic powder)
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste)

Preheat the oven to 400° and lightly grease a small baking dish with vegetable oil. Set aside. Trim the base of the cauliflower to remove any green leaves and the woody stem and place on prepared baking dish.

In a medium bowl, combine the rest of the ingredients

Using a pastry brush, evenly spread the marinade to cover the entire surface of the cauliflower.

Roast about 45 minutes. Check for doneness (it should be easily pierced with a sharp knife). Cook for another 15 miinutes, if necessary.

For a pretty presentation, move to a serving platter. Cut into wedges and serve warm.

Spice Crusted Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Servings: 4
Time: 60-75 minutes
Difficulty: easy
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Preheat the oven to 400° and lightly grease a small baking dish with vegetable oil. Set aside.
Trim the base of the cauliflower to remove any green leaves and the woody stem and place on prepared baking dish..
In a medium bowl, combine the rest of the ingredients
Using a pastry brush, evenly spread the marinade to cover the entire surface of the cauliflower.
Roast about 45 minutes. Check for doneness (it should be easily pierced with a sharp knife). Cook for another 15 miinutes, if necessary.
Cut into wedges and serve warm.

Meatless Monday – Roasted Red Pepper and Red Lentil Soup

by joycevandenbergporterSeptember 28, 2015

This is a One Pot Wonder! Soup is known to be a comforting and healing food. I just got my first cold of the year, possibly a result of the multiple cross country airplane flights I’ve taken or maybe its just a change of season sniffles. I was craving warm, hearty and a bit spicy to clear everything up. So soup was a natural choice. My friend, Sandy had just given me a platter of roasted red peppers and tomatoes that she said her family wouldn’t eat. Their loss was my gain and the inspiration for today’s soup. I decided to pair both roasted red veggies with red lentils to make a flavorful and spicy soup. Yum… Just what the doctor ordered.

People often ask me if I’m getting enough protein since I’ve stopped eating meat. The answer is YES! This soup is rich in protein as well as vitamins and minerals, from both the lentils and the veggies. The protein content of Red Lentils is comparable to that of one serving of meat, but generally healthier because they contain low levels of fat. In one cup of red lentils, you consume nearly 18 grams of protein which is the same as one 3-ounce serving of chicken breast but without the 3 grams of fat. Lentils are also rich in slow-digesting carbohydrates and dietary fiber that keep you feeling full and satisfied. (Read: Less likely to find yourself standing back in front of the open refrigerator.) I will throw one last little factoid at you. We learned from Eating the Rainbow that red foods (especially tomatoes) are loaded with lycopene, an important antioxidant which is good for a healthy heart, lowering the risk of some cancers and protecting the skin from ultra-violet light. So dig in!

TIPS: Okay. I was just given roasted tomatoes and red peppers, however, if you don’t have the time or inclination to roast them yourself, you can buy them already roasted in jars or substitute a can of fire roasted tomatoes and saute diced red peppers with the onions.

ROASTED RED PEPPER AND RED LENTIL SOUP

2 Tbsn olive oil
1 large onion, diced
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
2 red bell peppers
2-3 large red tomatoes (or one can of fire roasted tomatoes)
1 red chili pepper (or jalapeno)
2 cups dried red lentils
8 cups vegetable stock
1 tsp cumin
1/4 – 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

If roasting red peppers (and tomatoes), broil until the skin has blackened, 5-8 minutes. Turn to broil the other side. Remove from heat and let cool. Roughly chop and set aside.

In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil and saute the onion, chili pepper, and garlic and saute several minutes.

Add the red peppers and tomatoes and stir to combine.

Add the lentils, vegetable stock and spices and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20 minutes.

Let the soup cool slightly and puree in a food processor or blender. You may have to do it in two batches.

Clean the stockpot and return the soup to the pot. Reheat.

Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt, sliced chili peppers or fresh herbs.

Roasted Red Pepper and Red Lentil Soup

Servings: 4-6
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: easy
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2 Tbsn olive oil
1 large onion, diced
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
2 red bell peppers
2-3 large red tomatoes
1 red chili pepper
2 cups dried red lentils
8 cups vegetable stock
1 tsp cumin
1/4 -1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

If roasting red peppers(and tomatoes), broil until the skin has blackened, 5-8 minutes. Turn to broil the other side. Remove from heat and let cool. Roughly chop and set aside
In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil and saute the onion, chili pepper, and garlic and saute several minutes.
Add the red peppers and tomatoes and stir to combine.
Add the lentils, vegetable stock and spices and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20 minutes.
Let the soup cool slightly and puree in a food processor or blender. You may have to do it in two batches.
Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt, sliced chili peppers or fresh herbs.

Meatless Monday – Barbecue Pulled “Pork” Sliders with Spicy Slaw (Vegan)

by joycevandenbergporterSeptember 21, 2015

If you LOVE carnitas or pulled pork but want to pass on the meat, try this vegan version made with hearts of palm I know, it sounds implausible, but it’s really good and the texture is very similar to pulled pork but without the calories and the guilt. Piled high on a fresh slider bun and dripping with barbecue sauce, this pulled ‘pork’ is pretty delicious. You don’t miss the meat! It’s really all about the barbecue sauce, so choose wisely. You can go spicy, mild or sweet. The recipe below is for a slightly spicy barbecue sauce. You can also use a store-bought sauce and doctor it up with a bit of spices or hot sauce if need be.

Pulled pork is often served with coleslaw whose cool and crispy tangyness is the perfect accompaniment to the warm and spicy filling. My husband really dislikes creamy foods, so I made a mustard and vinegar based slaw instead of a creamy one with mayo. This slaw is fresh and a bit spicy with cabbage, carrots, cilantro and red onions with thinly sliced hot chili peppers to give it some pizzaz. Or you can be a purist and just go ‘meat’ and bun… Yes, that is really hearts of palm.

So what is hearts of palm and how does it add up from a nutritional standpoint? Hearts of Palm is harvested from the inner, less fibrous, part of various palm trees, most commonly the cabbage palm. Nutritionally, it’s extremely low in calories, weighing in at only 41 calories per cup(146 grams). It is also very low in Cholesterol and a good source of Protein (four grams in one cup), Riboflavin and Potassium, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C, Folate, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Copper and Manganese. Whew! Even though I have always liked hearts of palm, I thought they were fairly empty calories, so this was a pleasant surprise. I will definitely be tossing them into more salads and maybe even on the barbecue or in casseroles. Stay tuned…

I have been wanting to try a version of this recipe for a while. I’m not sure where I saw the idea for the first time (probably on Pinterest) but I adapted this recipe from Blissful Basil although she used canned jackfruit which I have heard is also a good shredded pork/carnitas substitute but I have never seen jackfruit in grocery stores around me.

TIPS: An easy short cut is to use a 16 oz bag of pre-shredded slaw mix which is available in most grocery stores instead of shredding all the veggies yourself. Add a prepared sauce and dinner is practically done!

BARBECUE PULLED ‘PORK’ SLIDERS WITH SPICY SLAW

2 Tbsn olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
2 (14 oz) cans of hearts of palm
1 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce (Homemade or Prepared)
8 slider buns

HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE
2 small cans tomato paste + one cup of water(or 2 cans tomato sauce)
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2-3 Tbsn brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp chili powder(or more)
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce (or more)
salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

SPICY SLAW
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple or both)
1/2 cup shredded carrot
1/4 large red onion, thinly sliced
1-2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced into rounds
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
juice from one lemon
1 tsp dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1//4 tsp pepper

Combine cabbage, carrots, peppers, cilantro and scallions in a medium serving bowl. Whisk together the oil, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, salt and pepper and pour over slaw. Toss to combine and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large heavy pan (preferably one that can go into the oven) over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until tender (5-7 minutes).

Drain the hearts of palm and shred using your hands or a knife.

Add hearts of palm to the pan with the onions and garlic and sauté for 5-10 minutes.

If making homemade sauce, combine barbecue sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Start with only one tablespoon of brown sugar. Taste and adjust seasonings. Stir the barbecue sauce and one cup vegetable broth (or water)into the hearts of palm mixture. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally to get the browned bits off the bottom. You can use a wooden spoon to break up the hearts of palm a bit more. If it gets dry add water or vegetable broth.

Continue to simmer with the lid off for for another 10 or 15 minutes or place in a 350 degree oven to brown.

Fill each of the buns with generous spoonfuls of barbecue mixture and spicy slaw. Top with pickles.

BBQ 'Pork' Sliders with Spicy Slaw

Servings: 4-6
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: easy
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2 Tbsn olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
2 (14 oz) cans of hearts of palm
1 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce (Homemade or Prepared)
8 slider buns

HOMEMADE BARBEQUE SAUCE
2 small cans tomato paste + 1 cup water(or 2 cans tomato sauce)
1 cup water
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2-3 Tbsn brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp chili powder(or more)
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce (or more)
salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Combine cabbage, carrots, peppers, cilantro and scallions in a medium serving bowl. Whisk together the oil, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, salt and pepper and pour over slaw. Toss to combine and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large heavy pan (preferably one that can go into the oven) over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until tender (5-7 minutes).Drain the hearts of palm and shred using your hands or a knife.
Add hearts of palm to the pan with the onions and garlic and sauté for 5-10 minutes.
If making homemade sauce, combine barbecue sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Start with only one tablespoon of brown sugar. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Stir the barbecue sauce and one cup vegetable broth (or water)into the hearts of palm mixture. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally to get the browned bits off the bottom. You can use a wooden spoon to break up the hearts of palm a bit more. If it gets dry add water or vegetable broth.
Continue to simmer with the lid off for for another 10 or 15 minutes or place in a 350 degree oven to brown.
Fill each of the buns with generous spoonfuls of barbecue mixture and spicy slaw. Top with pickles.

Wheatless Wednesday – Cauliflower Quinoa Chowder Topped with Caramelized Shallots

by joycevandenbergporterSeptember 16, 2015

It’s starting to look like Soup Season – and this one is magic! I just arrived at my house in Maine, where summer and fall are definitely having a collision. Summer is not over yet; the days are still sunny and beautiful, but once the sun goes down the temperature drops and sweaters come out. School is back in session, so that means that grownups have to actually go back to work too. It is this time of year when I still eat salads for lunch but start to crave warm homey food for dinner. Last night I made this savory vegan Cauliflower Quinoa Chowder topped with caramelized shallots (not bacon), parsley and sliced green onion. Mmmm… a definite Winner! This is an easy One Pot Meal that serves about 6 adults with generous portions. This will be one I make again and again.

This soup has two magic ingredients: cauliflower and quinoa. Cauliflower is the chameleon of vegetables. It can take the place of flour (Pizza Crust), pasta (Mac and Cheese), grain (Tabouleh) or potatoes (Cauliflower Puree). Adding Cauliflower to foods is a ~~sneaky~~ smart way to get some nutrients in your diet. Cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, pantothenic acid, and vitamin B6. It is a good source of dietary fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids and a whole host of vitamins and minerals. I only used one potato in this dish and the cauliflower stepped in for the rest. If you are trying to avoid carbs (even though potatoes are good ones), you can elinimate the potato altogether and add a bit more cauliflower.

Quinoa is another master of illusion and can be the star of a main course casserole or added to veggies in a salad. In this dish it is mixed in towards the end as a thickener and, as one of the Worlds ‘nearly perfect foods’ (as described on the package) it also provides a huge protein boost. I used Pearl Quinoa which I have never used before, partially because I thought it would add good texture to soup (it did) but also to support the company, Alter Eco, a Fair Trade company who gets its organic quinoa from Quechua and Aymara farmers in who grow the grain 13,000 feet up on the arid and desolate Soar De Uyuni salt flat of Bolivia. I want to support that kind of effort! That said, any kind of quinoa will work, so use what you have.

I adapted this recipe from Foodie Crush but made a few changes to make it vegan (trying to use less milk and dairy) and based on what vegetables I had on hand. She has a great recipe though, so you can click on the link to see the original. I love the color and sweetness that the carrots added. The original recipe called for red bell pepper which I didn’t have, so I added more carrots and a stalk of celery. Follow your own tastes (or pantry). I also used Original flavor coconut millk instead of regular milk and LOVED the added flavor. This chowder gets it’s thick and creamy texture from the quinoa but also from pureeing one third to a half of the vegetable mixture before adding the quinoa. If you like it chunky, puree less, if you like a smoother soup, puree more. Its that easy!

I love toppings and these really turn chowder into something special. The caramelized shallots are worth the 15 minutes it takes, trust me. I recommend making the shallots ahead or while the cauliflower and potatoes are cooking. This is my Go To substitute for bacon and it works! Be creative – or be a purist and go bare!

I eased myself into Maine yesterday with a windy and challenging kayak across the lake where the headwinds tossed water into out kayaks at each wave. Luckily we had the wind at our backs on the way back and breezed home but I definitely earned my dinner. I was not disappointed. I hiked Pleasant Mountain this morning instead of writing this blog (Sorry not sorry). In the photo above you can see the White Mountains in the distance. Now I’m looking for leftovers…

CAULIFLOWER AND QUINOA CHOWDER

1/4 cup olive or coconut oil
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 large onion, diced
1 stalk celery, diced
2 carrots, diced
1 russet potato, peeled and diced
1 small head cauliflower, roughly chopped (about 3 cups)
1 quart vegetable broth
2 cups coconut milk (or any other kind of milk)
2 bay leaves
2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 cup pearled quinoa (or regular quinoa)
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

TOPPINGS: (optional)

Carmelized shallots*Recipe below
Chopped parsley
Sliced scallions

In large stock pot, garlic and onions in oil over medium high heat for about 5 minutes, or until onions are opaque. Add celery and carrots and cook for about 10 minutes.

Add potato, cauliflower, vegetable broth, coconut milk, bay leaf and thyme. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until cauliflower and potato are softened.

Remove bay leaf. Ladle about 1/3 to 1/2 of the soup into a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Add back to pot. Add salt and pepper. Taste and add seasoning if desired.

Rinse 1/2 cup quinoa in cold water and add to cauliflower mixture. Reduce to simmer and cook until quinoa is softened, about 15 minutes. If soup gets too thick add water and lower temperature.

Add more liquid if needed. Serve with desired toppings. I highly recommend carmelized shallots, parsley and sliced scallions.

CARMELIZED SHALLOTS (makes about 1/4 cup)

6-8 shallots
1 Tbsn olive oil
1/2 tsp salt

Peel and thinly slice shallots into rounds.

Saute in oil for 15 minutes or so until golden brown.

Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.

Place in a small serving dish along with other toppings.

Cauliflower Quinoa Chowder

Servings: 6
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: easy
Print

1/4 cup olive or coconut oil
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 large onion, diced1 teaspoon salt
1 stalk celery, diced
2 carrots, diced
1 russet potato, peeled and diced
1 small head cauliflower, roughly chopped (about 3 cup)
1 quart vegetable broth
2 cups coconut milk (or any other kind of milk)
2 bay leaves
2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 cup pearled quinoa (or regular quinoa)
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

In large stock pot, garlic and onions in oil over medium high heat for about 5 minutes, or until onions are opaque.
Add celery and carrots and cook for about 10 minutes.
Add potato, cauliflower, vegetable broth, coconut milk, bay leaf and thyme. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until cauliflower and potato are softened.
Remove bay leaf. Ladle about 1/3 to 1/2 of the soup into a food processor or blender and process until smooth.
Add back to pot. Add salt and pepper. Taste and add seasoning if desired.
Rinse 1/2 cup quinoa in cold water and add to cauliflower mixture. Reduce to simmer and cook until quinoa is softened, about 15 minutes.
Add more liquid if needed. Serve with desired toppings. I highly recommend carmelized shallots, parsley and sliced scallions.

CARMELIZED SHALLOTS (makes about 1/4 cup)

6-8 shallots
1 Tbsn olive oil
1/2 tsp salt

Peel and thinly slice shallots into rounds.
Saute in oil for 15 minutes or so until golden brown.
Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.
Place in a small serving dish.

Meatless Monday – Veggie Kabobs With Chili Cumin Oil

by joycevandenbergporterSeptember 14, 2015

Grilling is Fun! That said, can we think outside the veggie burger? If you are tired of ‘burgers’ and ‘dogs’ being the stars of the grill, rest assured that there are some tasty options available. Veggie Kabobs are a colorful and tasty alternative that can be adapted to any tastes. I mean, who can resist corn wheels? You can even set up a ‘Veggie Bar’ and let your guests design their own. I opted to use sweet corn, summer squash and tomatoes which are still in season, and oh-so-good right now. I also added potatoes and tofu to help add fullness to the meal and a bit of protein. Other fun items to round out your skewers would be chunks of crusty sourdough bread, mushrooms, onions and peppers, or even fruit like peaches and mangos. Don’t be shy.

Each of these vegetables brings something different to the table in taste, texture and nutritional value, so a combination of ingredients assures a well rounded meal. I tested the recipe on all ingredients mentioned except for the red onion because I didn’t have one (darn!). I was pleased that each one was enhanced by the chili, cumin marinade but held it’s own once grilled. ~~Charred~~ Grilled bread is surprisingly good (think pizza oven crust with it’s blackened bits) and its a great way to use up day old bread. Best of all, I guarantee that your meat loving friends will be jealous… One word of warning; I normally use bamboo skewers but decided to use the longer metal ones this time. Well, this is probably obvious, but don’t try to turn them with your bare fingers. You can get away with touching bamboo skewers but metal ones are ~~bleeping~~ hot. I learned that lesson in a single distacted moment. I’m holding a cold beverage to my left pointer and index fingers as I type, just FYI. Use tongs!

TIPS: Make skewers ahead of time and let them rest in marinade until you’re ready to cook, even overnight. If you have picky eaters (or people who always pick off ‘the good stuff’ and leave the rest) try making some corn, potato or tofu only skewers. Pile onto a platter and serve.

If veggie kabobs aren’t for you, check out the following recipes for other vegetarian grilling ideas. Click on the links for the full recipes:

Grilled Avocado Caprese Salad – https://goodmotherdiet.com/2014/07/30/wheatless-wednesday-grilled-avocado-caprese-salad/

Chili Lime Tofu – https://goodmotherdiet.com/2014/08/11/meatless-monday-chili-lime-grilled-tofu-with-avocado-mango-salsa/

Grilled Nectarines and Summer Squash – https://goodmotherdiet.com/2014/06/02/meatless-monday-grilled-nectarines-and-summer-squash-with-balsamic-glaze/

VEGGIE KABOBS WITH CHILI CUMIN OIL

Choose 5 or more of your favorite ingredients from the list below (or get creative):

8-10 baby (or 5 small potatoes)
2 ears of fresh corn
8-10 criminy mushrooms
1-2 red bell pepper (or 8-10 mini sweet peppers)
2 zucchini squash
2 summer squash
1 red onion
1 dozen cherry tomatoes
1 block extra firm tofu
several thick slices of crusty sourdough or ciabatta bread

MARINADE (If you are using more than five skewer ingredients, you may want to double the recipe)
*Use the larger amount of spice if you like extra flavor.

1/2 cup olive oil
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zest and juice
1-2 tsp cumin
1-2 tsp chili powder
1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (Optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 2 hours prior to using to reduce charring. Cut potatoes in half and parboil in salted water until fork tender but still firm (about 5-10 minutes). Let cool and place in a large bowl.

If using tofu, drain and slice into cubes 1 -2 inches thick. (If you cut them too thin, they could fall off the skewer) Press them between double layers of papertowels to remove excess water.

Shuck corn and cut into 1 or 2 inch wheels.

Cut squash into 1 or 2 inch wheels. If using mini peppers, leave them whole. If using bell peppers, cut them into quarters or eights. Wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel and cut off any dry stems. Cut onion in half lengthwise and then into wedges, keeping stem end intact.

Place all vegetables in bowl with potatoes. Do not add bread or tofu at this time.

Combine all marinade ingredients in a small bowl and stir to combine.

Place tofu in a small bowl or zip lock baggie and pour 1/4 cup of marinade over the top and gently stir to coat. Set aside.

Pour the rest of the marinade over vegetables. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.

Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat. Cut bread into 1-2 inch chunks, if using. Brush lightly with marinade. Remove tofu and vegetables from the marinade, reserving marinade. Thread onto skewers.

Cook skewers on grill until vegetables are lightly charred all over, about 10 minutes, basting with reserved marinade and turning occasionally.

Remove skewers to a serving platter and spoon extra sauce over the top.

Veggie Kabobs With Chili Cumin Oil

Servings: 4-6
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: easy
Print

Choose 5 or more of your favorite ingredients from the list below (or get creative):

1 lb baby or small potatoes (about a dozen)
2-3 ears of fresh corn
8 oz criminy mushrooms
1-2 red bell pepper or mini sweet peppers
1 large or 2 small zucchini squash
1 large or 2 small summer squash
1 red onion
1 dozen cherry tomatoes
1 block extra firm tofu
several thick slices of crusty sourdough bread

MARINADE (If you are using more than five skewer ingredients, you may want to double the recipe)

*Use the larger amount of spice if you like extra flavor.

1/2 cup olive oil
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zest and juice
1-2 tsp cumin*
1-2 tsp chili powder*
1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne pepper * (Optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 2 hours prior to using to reduce charring.
Cut potatoes in half and parboil in salted water until fork tender but still firm (about 5-10 minutes). Let cool and place in a large bowl.
If using tofu, drain and slice into cubes 1 -2 inches thick. (If you cut them too thin, they could fall off the skewer)
Shuck corn and cut into 1 or 2 inch wheels.
Cut squash into 1 or 2 inch wheels
If using mini peppers, leave them whole. If using bell peppers, cut them into quarters or eights.
Wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel and cut off any dry stems.
Cut onion in half lengthwise and then into wedges, keeping stem end intact.
Place all vegetables in bowl with potatoes. Do not add bread at this time.
Combine all marinade ingredients and stir to combine.
Place tofu in a small bowl or zip lock baggie and pour 1/4 cup of marinade over the top and gently stir to coat. Set aside.
Pour the rest of the marinade over vegetables. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat. Cut bread into 1-2 inch chunks, if using. Brush lightly with marinade
Remove tofu and vegetables from the marinade, reserving marinade. Thread onto skewers.
Cook skewers on grill until vegetables are lightly charred all over, about 10 minutes, basting with reserved marinade and turning occasionally.
Remove skewers to a serving platter and spoon sauce over the top.

Wheatless Wednesday – Black Bean, Corn & Butternut Squash Tacos with Chile Lime Sauce

by joycevandenbergporterSeptember 2, 2015

Now we’re talking! I’m loving my yummy Mexican food without the extra calories. I guess you could call these ‘Skinny Tacos’. Black beans and butternut squash are two of my favorite ingredients, especially when the squash is roasted into a rich and tender little bites. Throw in sweet summer corn, cumin and jalapenos and you’ve got the start of some delicious tacos (or quesadillas-scroll down for more on that). So what is the skinny part besides the fact that these are vegetarian? I have a long standing love affair with cheese but for a multitude of reasons (one of them being the calories), I’m trying to cut down. The nice thing about this flavor combination is that it doesn’t need piles of cheese to make it yummy. Instead of cheese, I opted to make a creamy yogurt dressing made with green chilis, herbs and jalapenos, which makes it cool but spicy. Yes, I know, those are contradictory terms but that is what makes the sauce so much fun and the perfect complement for the earthy squash, corn and bean combination.

Want to make them even skinnier? Ditch the tortillas and use romaine lettuce leaves and you’ve got “Mexican Lettuce Boats” for a lighter, low-carb option.

I also happened to have some sweet mini peppers which are delightful when roasted. They get even sweeter and can be eaten whole, seeds and all, except for maybe the stem (actually, you can probably eat that too if you really want to). They take virtually no preparation. Just place them whole on an oiled baking sheet and roast in a hot oven for about 20 minutes, turning once, until charred and blistered on both sides. Let cool and chop and use in salads or other dishes. You could even add them to this taco filling if you like. They are great on an antipasti platter and their bright colors also make them a cheerful garnish.

The black bean, corn and butternut squash filling is fairly loose and well suited for tacos but it also makes for tasty quesadillas if you add some gooey cheese to keep it together. An alternative would be to mash up some of the beans and squash to give it a stickier consistency. Regardless of how you serve them, these veggies taste great together and add oodles of fiber, vitamins and minerals to your diet! Just make sure you buy organic, non GMO corn tortillas to keep your meal healthy.

BLACK BEAN, CORN & BUTTERNUT SQUASH TACOS WITH CHILI LIME SAUCE

2 cups butternut squash (about one half squash)
1 can black beans
1-2 ears fresh corn kernels (or 1 cup frozen)
1/2 onion, chopped
1 jalapeno, finely diced (optional)
4 cloves garlic
1 Tbsn cilantro, chopped
1 dozen corn tortillas

CHILI LIME SAUCE (Optional)

1/2 cup full fat plain yogurt (vegan or regular)
2 Tbsn canned fire roasted chopped green chilis
1 jalapeno
1/4 cup cilantro
1 Tbsn fresh lime juice
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt

Process green chilis, jalapeno and cilantro in food processor or blender until finely minced. Add yogurt, lime juice, cumin and salt. Pulse until smooth. Pour into a small serving bowl and let chill in the refrigerator. (It will thicken as it chills)

Peel and dice butternut squash into a half inch dice. Spread in a single layer in an oiled baking sheet. Slice garlic cloves in half and arrange around the squash. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir to coat with oil and roast at 450 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until soft and slightly browned on the edges. Garlic may be brown.

If you are roasting mini peppers, place them whole on an oiled baking dish and stir to coat both sides with oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, turning once to blacken both sides. I used the same pan as the squash but kept them as separate as possible.

Saute onion and jalapeno for several minutes until starting to soften, then add corn and cook several more minutes.

Add black beans and cook another minute or two.

Lower heat and add butternut squash and carefully stir to combine. Don’t overcook as squash will get too soft.

To heat corn tortillas:
- In the oven – Wrap stacks of five or so tortillas in aluminum foil and heat them for about 15 minutes in a 350° oven.
- On the stovetop: Cook them one at a time in a dry heavy pan and stack them as they are warmed. For crispy shells, fry them in a good oil (like avocado oil) on one side for 1 or 2 minutes, turn using tongs and fold it in half to crisp then turn to the other side. Drain on papertowels.
- In the microwave: Wrap tortillas in barely damp papertowels and microwave in 30-second increments until they are warmed through.

Scoop filling into taco shells and top with chili lime sauce. Serve with more sauce and fresh herbs on the side.

Black Bean, Corn and Butternut Squash Tacos with Chili Lime Sauce

Servings: 4-6
Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: easy
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CHILI LIME SAUCE (Optional)

1/2 cup full fat plain yogurt (vegan or regular)
2 Tbsn canned fire roasted chopped green chilis
1 jalapeno
1/4 cup cilantro
1 Tbsn fresh lime juice
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt

Process green chilis, jalapeno and cilantro in food processor or blender until finely minced. Add yogurt, lime juice, cumin and salt. Pulse until smooth. Pour into a small serving bowl and let chill in the refrigerator. (It will thicken as it chills)
Peel and dice butternut squash into a half inch dice. Spread in a single layer in an oiled baking sheet. Slice garlic cloves in half and arrange around the squash. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir to coat with oil and roast at 450 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until soft and slightly browned on the edges. Garlic may be brown.
If you are roasting mini peppers, place them whole on an oiled baking dish and stir to coat both sides with oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, turning once to blacken both sides.
Saute onion and jalapeno for several minutes until starting to soften, then add corn and cook several more minutes.
Add black beans and cook another minute or two.
Lower heat and add butternut squash and carefully stir to combine. Don’t overcook as squash will get too soft.
To heat corn tortillas:
- In the oven – Wrap stacks of five or so tortillas in aluminum foil and heat them for about 15 minutes in a 350° oven.
- On the stovetop: Cook them one at a time in a dry heavy pan and stack them as they are warmed. For crispy shells, fry them in a good oil (like avocado oil) on one side for 1 or 2 minutes, turn using tongs and fold it in half to crisp then turn to the other side. Drain on papertowels.
- In the microwave: Wrap tortillas in barely damp papertowels and microwave in 30-second increments until they are warmed through.
Scoop filling into taco shells and top with chili lime sauce. Serve with more sauce and fresh herbs on the side.

Wheatless Wednesday – Kung Pao Tofu with Zoodles

by joycevandenbergporterAugust 26, 2015

Love noodles but not the Carbs? Enter Zoodles, ‘noodles’ made from zucchini spirals that are surprisingly noodle-like. They nestle right into this tasty Kung Pao Sauce just like regular pasta – but without the extra calories. This Kung Pao was a crowd favorite; crispy tofu, bell pepper, ‘noodles’, all in a spicy, delicious sauce, topped with peanuts and green onions. Even my non-tofu lovers gobbled it up and asked for more! Cutting the tofu into a small dice and cooking it separately from the sauce is key. With Kung Pao though, it’s really all about the sauce. This one is spicy, but not not mouth burning, and easy to adjust to suit your personal tastes. Alas, if you are one of those people that can’t be bothered with recipes that have lots of ingredients, there is any easy solution. Just pick one up one of the many wonderful sauces sitting on the shelf in your local market and you’re good to go!

I’m not really a gadget person, however this one is a game changer. In seconds, zucchini (or any vegetable) becomes spaghetti, angel hair or ribbons. There are countless uses for these shapes; pastas, salads and casseroles to name a few. Other than my food processor and my lemon zester, this is a favorite. Just in case you don’t know what a spiral slicer can do, just check out the photo below showing zucchini being sliced using three different blades. For this recipe I used the center blade to make a thicker noodle.

Photo Credit: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/10/vegetable-noodles-are-going-to-change-everything_n_5112928.html

Making zoodles is easy if you have a spiralizer, and FUN! If you have a picky eater who won’t eat anything green, you can peel the zucchini first to remove the offending green, then spiralize into beautiful ‘noodles’ that may fool even the pickiest of eaters. I wish I had known about zoodles back in the day when my little boys only ate pasta with butter! I prefer keeping the peel on since so many of the nutrients are in or right under the skin, but any nutrients is better than none…

TIPS: This is a mildly spicy Kung Pao Sauce. To adjust spiciness, add more or less of the red pepper flakes and red chili paste. Taste sauce to make sure you like the amount of spice before adding to the pan. It will continue to develop flavor as it cooks and combines with the sesame oil, garlic and ginger. For large appetites, you might want to double the tofu (Yes, they will like it.) or serve with brown rice. If you do make rice, toss a one inch chunk of peeled ginger into the pot to give the rice a nice gingery flavor. Remove the ginger before serving.

Recipe Adapted from Skinny Taste Kung Pao Chicken Zoodles For Two

KUNG PAO TOFU WITH ZOODLES

1 block extra firm tofu
2 Tbsn olive, avocado or coconut oil
2 -3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (or ginger paste)
salt and pepper
2-3 medium zucchini
1 red bell pepper
1 green bell pepper
2-3 scallions
1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts (or more)

KUNG PAO SAUCE

2 Tbsn soy sauce (or wheat free Tamari)
1 Tbsn balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsn hoisin sauce
1 Tbsn red chili paste
1 tsp red pepper flakes (or more)
1 Tbsn sugar
1 Tbsn cornstarch
2 Tbsn water

Drain block of tofu and cut into 1/2 inch cubes. Place in a single layer on a double thickness of papertowels. Cover with more paper towels and place a heavy object on top (like a cast iron pan) to help press out water. Let sit at least 10 minutes.

Using a spiralizer fitted with a shredder blade (this makes a thicker noodle), or a mandolin fitted with a julienne blade, cut the zucchini into long spaghetti-like strips. If using a spiralizer, cut the strands into pieces that are about 8 inches long.

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together soy sauce, balsamic, hoisin, water, red chili paste, sugar and cornstarch; set aside.

Cut scallions into one inch pieces, then thinly julienne OR thinly slice into circles.

Cut bell peppers into 1/2 inch dice. Measure out peanuts and roughly chop them or leave them whole.

Heat oil in a large, deep nonstick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring several times to brown all six sides, about 5 minutes.

Remove tofu to a plate and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium, add sesame oil, garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the bell pepper, stir in soy sauce mixture and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until thickened and bubbling, about 2 minutes.

Stir in zucchini noodles and cook, mixing for two or three minutes until just tender and mixed with the sauce. If it seems dry, don’t worry the zucchini will release moisture which helps create a sauce.

Once zucchini is cooked to your liking, add the tofu, half of the peanuts and scallions and stir to combine.

Serve with more peanuts and scallions on top.

Kung Pao Tofu with Zoodles

Servings: 4
Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: easy
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KUNG PAO SAUCE

2 Tbsn soy sauce (or wheat free Tamari)
1 Tbsn balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsn hoisin sauce
1 Tbsn red chili paste
1 tsp red pepper flakes (or more)
1 Tbsn sugar
1 Tbsn cornstarch
2 Tbsn water

Drain block of tofu and cut into 1/2 inch cubes. Place in a single layer on a double thickness of papertowels. Cover with more paper towels and place a heavy object on top (like a cast iron pan) to help press out water. Let sit at least 10 minutes.
Using a spiralizer fitted with a shredder blade (this makes a thicker noodle), or a mandolin fitted with a julienne blade, cut the zucchini into long spaghetti-like strips. If using a spiralizer, cut the strands into pieces that are about 8 inches long.
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together soy sauce, balsamic, hoisin, water, red chili paste, sugar and cornstarch; set aside.
Cut scallions into one inch pieces, then thinly julienne OR thinly slice into circles. Cut bell peppers into 1/2 inch dice.
Heat oil in a large, deep nonstick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring several times to brown all six sides, about 5 minutes.
Remove tofu to a plate and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium, add sesame oil, garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the bell pepper, stir in soy sauce mixture and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until thickened and bubbling, about 2 minutes.
Stir in zucchini noodles and cook, mixing for two or three minutes until just tender and mixed with the sauce. If it seems dry, don’t worry the zucchini will release moisture which helps create a sauce.
Once zucchini is cooked to your liking, add the tofu, half of the peanuts and scallions and stir to combine.
Serve with more peanuts and scallions on top.

Meatless Monday – Spicy Tofu and Mandarin Skewers

by joycevandenbergporterJuly 27, 2015

Grill marks are sexy! Barbecue aficionados know what I’m talking about. There is something completely satisfying about the getting that perfect sear, as evidenced by lovely straight grill marks. Well vegetarians can have it too! Now that grilling season is in full force, non-meat eaters can be part of the fun. There are many goodies that can be thrown on the grill that are not slabs of meat. These Tofu skewers are deliciously spicy and easy to make. They only take a few minutes for assembly but require about an hour to properly marinate. The sesame, soy, chili marinade is the key here, and tofu, which is normally fairly bland, is great at soaking up flavorful marinades. So get your grill on!

The mandarin slices are not just to make the skewers look pretty. When grilled, their flavor is intensified into a lovely smoky, sweetness and the rind chars, making the whole fruit good enough to eat. I don’t normally eat citrus skins (except for Meyer Lemon) because they are tough and bitter – but I ate these charred little orange wheels and they were delicious! They also add a dose of vitamin C, vitamin A and anti-oxidants, especially their skin which has higher concentrates of the nutrients! If you don’t have access to small orange citrus like clementines, tangerines or satsuma, lemons would also be a good choice.

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between oranges and the myriad other small orangish citrus fruits you see at the market? Oranges and Mandarin Oranges (also known as Tangerines) are part of the citrus family. Tangerines are related varieties of oranges which are smaller in size than oranges, and have a loose, easily peelable skin (officially called the pericarp) and a sweeter juicy flesh (known as arils). They are also known as mandarin oranges in Europe and satsumas in Japan. Here are a few more varieties on Tangerines:

Tangelos, also known as honeybell, are hybrid between tangerine and orange (Citrus sinensis) or grapefruit (Citrus paradisi). Tangelos, like tangerines, have loose skin and juicy sweet flavored segments. They are distinguished from oranges by a characteristic knob at the stem end of the fruit.
Tangors (Citrus nobilis) are cross between oranges (C. sinensis) and tangerine (C. reticulata). They feature large size, and sweet-tart flavor similar to oranges.
Clementines, another member of citrus family, are cross between mandarin and sweet oranges. They are smaller, have smooth glossy skin, and very sweet, juicy, almost seedless segments.

TIPS: Tofu is great on the grill, just don’t forget to drain it on papertowels before putting it in the marinade or it won’t soak up the flavors properly. Unlike meat and poultry marinades, which must be cooked or thrown away, this marinade is multi-purpose. The marinade can be reserved and used to brush the tofu skewers while cooking and then again as a dip. If you prefer to serve the skewers with a thicker dipping/drizzling sauce, simmer marinade for several minutes in a small saucepan. Enjoy!

SPICY TOFU AND MANDARIN SKEWERS

1 block extra firm tofu
3 mandarins (or other small citrus fruit)

MARINADE
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 Tbsn sesame oil
1/4 cup rice vinegar
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbsn red chili paste

Cut tofu block into 12 rectangular pieces. Place on double papertowels and cover with more papertowels. Set something heavy on top to help press out the water. Let sit about 15 minutes. If using bamboo or wooden skewers, let them s0ak in water for 20 minutes or so to prevent them from burning.

In a bowl large enough to hold the tofu in a single layer, whisk together the marinade ingredients.

Add tofu and spoon marinade over tofu to coat. Cover and let rest for 1 hour (and up to to 24 hours). For best results, turn the tofu so another side is down (in the marinade) every 10-15 minutes until all sides are coated (Or another option would be to marinate them in a ziploc bag).

Slice mandarins into rounds, leaving skin on.

Thread the tofu onto skewers adding a slice of mandarin between each piece. (reserve the marinade) Grill the skewers, turning once and basting frequently with the reserved marinade, until browned on both sides, 4 to 6 minutes total.

Serve with reserved marinade.

Spicy Tofu and Mandarin Skewers

Servings: 3-4
Time: 90 minutes
Difficulty: easy
Print

1 block extra firm tofu
3 mandarins (or other small citrus fruit)

MARINADE
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 Tbsn sesame oil
1/4 cup rice vinegar
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbsn red chili paste

Cut tofu block into 12 rectangular pieces. Place on double papertowels and cover with more papertowels. Set something heavy on top to help press out the water. Let sit about 15 minutes.
If using bamboo or wooden skewers, let them s0ak in water for 20 minutes or so to prevent them from burning.
In a bowl large enough to hold the tofu in a single layer, whisk together the marinade ingredients.
Add tofu and spoon marinade over tofu to coat. Cover and let rest for 1 hour (and up to to 24 hours)
For best results, turn the tofu so another side is down (in the marinade) every 10-15 minutes until all sides are coated (Or another option would be to marinate them in a ziploc bag).
Slice mandarins into rounds, leaving skin on.
Thread the tofu onto skewers adding a slice of mandarin between each piece. (reserve the marinade)
Grill the skewers, turning once and basting frequently with the reserved marinade, until browned on both sides, 4 to 6 minutes total.
Serve with reserved marinade

Meatless Monday – Summer Vegetable Chowder – Fully Loaded (Vegan)

by joycevandenbergporterJuly 20, 2015

Sometimes in Summer you just have to step away from the salad bar and belly up to a big bowl of creamy comfort food. Last night, the Maine skies were filled with Mother Nature;s fireworks. Lightening made a dramatic light display across the night sky, quickly followed by booming thunder, while we sat and counted the seconds on our fingers. If my dog was here, she would have been hiding under my bed. This was a perfect night for Summer Vegetable Chowder, fully loaded, or more specifically, topped with tasty brown onion bits (instead of bacon), scallions, flaked parmesan and cilantro. Yum! This thick, creamy chowder is filled with seasonal veggies; zucchini, summer squash, potato and sweet corn simmered in a light vegetable broth with creamy coconut milk.

I have been trying to experiment with more vegan recipes and using fewer animal products in my cooking. This recipe is vegan except for the addition of parmesan as a topping which, of course, is optional). When I was sauteing the onions and celery, I forgot to stir for a few moments and some of the onions turned brown on the edges. I started to pick the brown bits out and then tasted one and realized I had hit paydirt! The browned onions were just the flavor that my vegetarian chowder was missing, so I decided to take the other half of the onion and make them on purpose to use as a topping. Loved them! I used to be a big bacon lover and I am always looking for good substitutes. These onion bits don’t get crispy like actual bacon does, but they have that same umami that we love so much. Of course, toppings are optional, but… why not?

TIPS: I used unsweetened coconut milk (fresh from a carton not a can) but any kind of milk would work, vegan or regular. I also made it creamier by pureeing half of the cooked vegetables and putting the mixture back into the soup. It’s a great way to add creaminess without adding heavy cream. If you prefer a more brothy soup with more vegetables, then skip this step.

SUMMER VEGETABLE CHOWDER WITH BROWNED ONION ‘BACON BITS’

1/2 large yellow onion, diced

1/4 cup chopped celery, diced

2 Tbsn coconut or olive oil (or vegan butter)

2 large potatoes, peeled and diced

1 pound yellow summer squash, diced

1 pound zucchini, diced

3-4 ears fresh corn, cut off the cob

1 quart vegetable broth

2 cups coconut milk (or other milk)

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

TOPPINGS (Optional):

Browned Onion ‘Bacon Bits’ (*See directions below)

1/2 cup chopped scallions

1/2 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese

Saute onions and celery in olive oil or butter in a large stockpot for about 10 minutes or until tender.

Add potatoes and vegetable stock and cook until softened, 15 to 20 minutes. Add squash, zucchini, corn, thyme and coconut milk and simmer until vegetables are soft. Season with salt and pepper.

For a thicker soup puree half of the potato/onion mixture in a blender or food processor and return to the stockpot. (This can also be done after cooking the potatoes instead if you want more chunky veggies.)

While soup is cooking prepare Browned Onion ‘Bacon Bits’, if using, and set aside (Directions below).

Prepare toppings, if using. In addition to the onion bits, I also served fresh herbs, shaved parmesan and sliced scallions.

Ladle soup into bowls and allow guests to ‘decorate’ their dish with desired toppings.

BROWNED ONION ‘BACON BITS’

Chop one half large onion and brown in 1 Tbsn olive oil or coconut oil and 1 Tbsn butter, vegan butter (optional) in a heavy saucepan over medium heat until browned, about 20 minutes.

Transfer to a paper towel and let cool. They won’t crisp like bacon but add that great salty, fatty flavor.

Place in a small serving bowl when cool.

Summer Vegetable Chowder

Servings: 6
Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: easy
Print

1/2 large yellow onion, diced

1/4 cup chopped celery, diced

2 large potatoes, peeled and diced

1 pound yellow summer squash, diced

1 pound zucchini, diced

3-4 ears fresh corn

1 quart vegetable broth

2 1/4 cups coconut milk (or other milk)

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

TOPPINGS (Optional):

Browned Onion ‘Bacon Bits’ (*See directions below)

1/2 cup chopped scallions

1/2 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese

Saute onions and celery in olive oil or butter in a large stockpot for about 10 minutes or until tender.
Add potatoes and vegetable stock and cook until softened, 15 to 20 minutes.
For a thicker soup puree half of the potato/onion mixture in a blender or food processor and return to the stockpot. (This can also be done after cooking the squash)
Add squash, zucchini, corn, thyme and coconut milk and simmer until vegetables are soft. Season with salt and pepper.
While soup is cooking prepare Browned Onion ‘Bacon Bits’, if using, and set aside (Directions below).
Prepare toppings, if using. In addition to the onion bits, I also served fresh herbs, shaved parmesan and sliced scallions.
Ladle soup into bowls and allow guests to ‘decorate’ their own bowls with desired toppings.

BROWNED ONION ‘BACON BITS’

Chop one half large onion and brown in 1 Tbsn olive oil or coconut oil and 1 Tbsn butter, vegan butter (optional) in a heavy saucepan over medium heat until browned, about 20 minutes.
Transfer to a paper towel and let cool. They won’t crisp like bacon but add that great salty, fatty flavor.
Place in a small serving bowl when cool.

Wheatless Wednesday – Roasted Beet and Tomato Salad

by joycevandenbergporterJuly 15, 2015

If tomatoes are the star in summer, beets are a bold and intense showgirl. Together they are a showstopper! Fresh and easy, pretty enough for a party, this Roasted Beet and Tomato Salad is a Summer Showcase! Sun-ripened tomatoes in reds and yellows paired with dark-ruby roasted beets, resting on a bed of mixed greens and topped with crumbled feta and fresh herbs is a pure delight. I love the simplicity of this five ingredient salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. Each flavor is strong enough to stand on it’s own, and tossed together they make a colorful and flavorful salad, good enough for company but tasty enough for family.

Photo Credit: Dr Oz

Roasted beets are not to be compared to the tasteless canned variety. Roasting them intensifies their flavor as none of the juice is lost in boiling water. Beets are very low in calories, contain no cholesterol and small amount of fat and they are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants. All of that glorious color has to mean something!

I feel like a word of caution is in order here. As I mentioned, dark beets have a vivid color and when roasted with olive oil, some of the escaped juices are quite vibrantly red, which I found out looks remarkably like blood when spilled. Yes, I tipped the foil and juices leaked out; on the counter, down the cabinet and on the floor. Even my bare feet looked like they were splattered in blood. It looked like someone cut off their arm in right in my kitchen. Note to self for next gory Halloween costume… Also, beet juice can stain wood cutting boards, so I recommend plastic washable cutting surfaces or a ceramic plate. Otherwise, beets are lovely.

Do we even need to talk about tomatoes? If you aren’t convinced, click HERE to read how eating tomatoes can make you healthier. If you love beets but not tomatoes so much, here are a few other Goodmotherdiet salads that were also inspired by beets:

Beet and Citrus Salad with Goat Cheese and Pine Nuts

Layered Beet Salad with Glazed Pecans and Citrus Vinaigrette

Roasted Beet Salad with Ripe Peaches and Goat Cheese

TIPS: If you were lucky enough to buy beets with the greens still attached, don’t cut them off and discard them. The greens are delicious raw, thinly sliced into salads or sauteed and stirred into pasta or prepared any way you would use chard, kale or any other dark leafy green. They have a slightly bitter taste that mellows with cooking and adds flavor and nutrients to your meal. Beets can be roasted a day or two ahead of time and refrigerated until ready. Note that beet juice stains porous surfaces, like wood cutting boards. Use non-porous surfaces for preparation and slicing.

ROASTED BEET AND TOMATO SALAD

1 lb beets (3-4 medium)
2 lbs tomatoes, mixed
1 bunch arugula or mixed greens
3 oz feta, sliced or crumbled(optional)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped or sliced
1/4 cup olive oil+
1/4 cup apple cider or red wine vinager
salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut away beet greens without cutting into the skin and place beets on a large piece of foil, separately or together. Drizzle with olive oil and tightly close foil packet. Roast on a rimmed baking sheet until tender, about 75 minutes.

When cool, use a paper towel to remove skins.

Slice into rounds on a plastic cutting board or plate.

Slice large tomatoes into 1/4′ rounds, and halve cherry tomatoes.

Place greens on the bottom of a serving platter and arrange the beets and tomatoes on top.

Whisk together the olive oil and vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Top tomatoes with feta, cilantro, basil and drizzle with dressing. Serve with more herbs and feta on the side.

Roasted Beet and Tomato Salad

Servings: 4-6
Time: 90+ minutes
Difficulty: easy
Print

1 lb beets (3-4 medium)
2 lbs tomatoes, mixed
1 bunch arugula or mixed greens
3 oz feta, sliced or crumbled
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped or sliced
1/4 cup olive oil+
1/4 cup apple cider or red wine vinager
salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut away beet greens without cutting into the skin and place beets on a large piece of foil. Drizzle with olive oil and tightly close foil packet. Roast on a rimmed baking sheet until tender, about 75 minutes.
When cool, use a paper towel to remove skins and slice into rounds on a plastic cutting board or plate.
Slice large tomatoes into 1/4′ rounds, and halve cherry tomatoes.
Place greens on the bottom of a serving platter and arrange the beets and tomatoes on top.
Whisk together the olive oil and vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
Top with feta, cilantro, basil and drizzle with dressing.
Serve with more fresh herbs and feta on the side.

Meatless Monday -Broccoli Slaw with Cranberries and Toasted Almonds

by joycevandenbergporterJuly 13, 2015

I am at my house in Maine for the month of July. My Maine kitchen is full of many cooks as friends from around the country show up to visit beautiful Maine. Some nights we are positively bursting at the seams, even the bunkroom is full to the rafters. One night such as that, I was lucky enough to have our friend, Evan Kendall, who is a student at New England Culinary Institute and working towards a BA in Culinary Arts, here for a visit. We all clamored for him to make his signature dish, Broccoli Slaw. This lovely raw broccoli salad is a dish I have had the pleasure of enjoying the last couple of summers in Maine. It features sliced broccoli, tossed together with cranberries, toasted almonds and red onion. The creamy buttermilk dressing pulls all the flavors together. This salad is delicious and good for you! He originally got this recipe from Smitten Kitchen and has made a few small changes. As happens with really good recipes, they get passed down again and again. Yay, power to my fellow bloggers for making food better everywhere!

TIPS: This recipe would be easy to make vegan by substituting vegan milk and mayonaise products.

Photo Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_Huts_of_the_White_Mountains

It was just my birthday weekend and I spent it hiking in the White Mountains. The White Mountains, known as the most rugged mountains in New England, are beautiful but not for sissies! We hiked to the Greenleaf Hut which is perched at the treeline on Mount Lafayette on the Appalachian Trail. The Greenleaf Hut, which is part of the AMC (Appalachian Mountain Club) Hut Network, offers bunk accommodations and a delicious hot dinner and hearty breakfast before hikers continue on their way. We followed ‘Franconia Loop’, a challenging almost 10 mile trail that climbs Mount Lafayette (5240′), Mount Lincoln (5089′) and Little Haystack (4780′) on Franconia Ridge and winds around seven waterfalls on the Falling Waters Trail. It was a wonderful and challenging trip – off my bucket list. My legs are still sore, just saying…

Anyway, I was nowhere near my kitchen for the last few days, making this is a great time to host a guest chef for your Meatless Monday. So without further ado…

Adapted from Smitten Kitchen, who “Adapted a little bit from family, a little bit from Apartment Therapy“

BROCCOLI SLAW COMPLIMENTS OF GUEST CHEF, EVAN KENDALL

Broccoli Slaw

Servings: 6 cups
Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: easy
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2 heads of broccoli
1/2 cup thinly sliced almonds, toasted
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/2 small red onion, finely chopped

Buttermilk Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup buttermilk, or plain milk
3-4 tablespoons cider vinegar, to taste, use less with buttermilk
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar
3 tablespoons finely chopped shallot (or, you could just use a little extra red onion to simplify it)
freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Prepare the broccoli by cutting it into large chunks and then slicing them thinly. This can be done by hand with a knife, in a food processor with the slicing attachment, or on a mandoline. I really enjoy the stems of broccoli, give them a try if you don’t usually. The outer skin is tough and can be unappealing, so try peeling it off and slice thinly. In a large bowl, toss with the dried cranberries, toasted almond. You can include the red onion as well, or combine that in the dressing to temper the onion flavor.

In a small-medium bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the dressing. Season with a pinch of salt and ground pepper. Pour the dressing over the broccoli and other ingredients, and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, I like to make the pepper stand out.

Meatless Monday – Rustic Roasted Tomato Tart

by joycevandenbergporterJuly 6, 2015

I can’t say enough about these roasted tomatoes – drizzled with balsamic and honey and slow roasted until they reach caramelized perfection. Their cooking juice alone is worth the price of admission, delicious as a dipping sauce for a crusty baguette. But that’s not all! I layered the lovely roasted tomatoes over a bed of fresh mozzarella and then folded it all in a buttery crust to form a rustic tart. You would never know that the crust is actually good for you because it’s so yummmy, but it’s made with 100% White Whole Wheat Flour. No that wasn’t a typo. I used a whole grain flour made from white whole wheat, which is a different kind of wheat whose germ has a lighter color and milder in flavor than the more traditional ‘red’ wheat. It has the same nutritional value as whole wheat but is not as heavy, making it a better choice for baking. I believe in making food healthy but not at the expense of taste. Win, Win!

These roasted tomatoes are really sweet and flavorful, great layered in sandwiches or mixed in with other vegetables. I know I will be making these over and over again! I know I already said this, but it bears repeating. The sauce is ‘to die for’ so carefully pour every last drop into a small bowl and use it as a dipping sauce.

Tomatoes are America’s favorite vegetable (even though it’s technically a fruit) and they are so wonderful when they are in season like right now, fresh from the vine. You can just taste the goodness! If you are worried that cooking tomatoes, destroys the nutrients, don’t. Tomatoes are one of the veggies that actually benefits from being cooked. Most people know that tomatoes are loaded with vitamins and nutrients, like lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect our immune systems. The best way to get lycopene, which is in the skin and gives tomatoes their red color, is through cooked or processed tomatoes. Cooking them with a little healthy oil helps carry the lycopene into the bloodstream. ( Best Health Magazine) So roast away! You won’t regret it…

TIPS: This recipe would be easy to make vegan. Just omit the cheeses which are not necessary anyway, as the star of this dish is really the roasted tomatoes. To veganize the crust, substitute a vegan butter or oil and brush the crust with non-dairy milk before cooking. Then I would suggest sprinkling the tomatoes and especially the crust with a coarse salt and more herbs before baking.

I spotted this recipe in the Farm Fresh – Summer, 2015 magazine, although I added a layer of fresh mozzarella beneath the tomatoes and used white whole wheat flour for the crust for a more nutritious tart.

RUSTIC ROASTED TOMATO TART

7-8 ripe tomatoes
1/3 cup olive oil
1 Tbsn balsamic vinegar
2 tsp honey
3 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 1/2 tsp dried)-divided
1/2 tsp salt
6 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced (optional)
1/4 cup parmesan, shredded(optional)

CRUST (or your favorite pre-made crust)

1 cup white whole wheat flour (or all purpose flour)plus more for dusting the surface
2 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 stick (1/2 cup) cold unsalted butter
2 Tbsn + 1 tsp ice water
1 egg (for glazing the crust)

If you are making dough for a crust, combine the flour, sugar and salt in a food processor and pulse briefly to combine. Cut butter into slices and add to the flour mixture. Pulse about 20 times or until the butter particles are small. With the motor running, add the ice water and process until the dough is beginning to come together. It will be loose but will come together if you pinch it. Turn the loose dough out onto a mixing bowl and knead it briefly Shape it into a flat disc and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes and up to 2 days. (Or to save time later, you can roll it into a 12 inch round, then wrap it in plastic and store in the refrigerator)

Pre-heat the oven to 425. Line a heavy duty rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush with with olive oil. Combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl.

Cut tomatoes in half horizontally and carefully remove seeds.

Place tomatoes cut side up on the baking sheet and lightly sprinkle with salt.

Pour the balsamic mixture into each tomato half, distributing as evenly as possible. Sprinkle with 2 tsp thyme.

Roast the tomatoes until they are brown on the edges and collapsed, about an hour. Let them cool. Save any pan juices to serve with crusty sourdough bread!

While the tomatoes are cooling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let come to room temperature. Heat oven to 400. Line a heavy duty rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll into a 12 inch round, then transfer to parchment paper. Don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfect. I think it makes a more interesting tart.

Arrange mozzarella slices in the center of the round, leaving a 2 inch border of dough.

Arrange the roasted tomato halves over the mozzarella, starting in the center and slightly overlapping, still leaving a 2 inch border.

Fold the edge of the dough up and over the tomatoes, pleating as you go.

Brush the dough (including under the folds) with beaten egg. Sprinkle the tart with parmesan and remaining thyme. Bake until the crust is golden brown, about 40 minutes.

Let cool slightly and transfer to a cutting board or serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

CRUST (or your favorite pre-made crust)

If you are making dough for a crust, combine the flour, sugar and salt in a food processor and pulse briefly to combine. Cut butter into slices and add to the flour mixture. Pulse about 20 times or until the butter particles are small. With the motor running, add the ice water and process until the dough is beginning to come together. It will be loose but will come together if you pinch it. Turn the loose dough out onto a mixing bowl and knead it briefly Shape it into a flat disc and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes and up to 2 days.
Pre-heat the oven to 425. Line a heavy duty rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush with with olive oil. Combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl.
Cut tomatoes in half horizontally and carefully remove seeds.
Place tomatoes cut side up on the baking sheet and lightly sprinkle with salt.
Pour the balsamic mixture into each tomato half, distributing as evenly as possible. Sprinkle with 2 tsp thyme. Roast the tomatoes until they are brown on the edges and collapsed, about an hour. Let them cool. Save any pan juices to serve with crusty sourdough bread!
While the tomatoes are cooling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let come to room temperature. Heat oven to 400. Line a heavy duty rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll into a 12 inch round, then transfer to parchment paper. Don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfect. I think it makes a more interesting tart.
Arrange mozzarella slices in the center of the round, leaving a 2 inch border of dough.
Arrange the roasted tomato halves over the mozzarella, starting in the center and slightly overlapping, still leaving a 2 inch border.
Fold the edge of the dough up and over the tomatoes, pleating as you go.
Brush the dough (including under the folds) with beaten egg. Sprinkle the tart with parmesan and remaining thyme. Bake until the crust is golden brown, about 40 minutes.
Let cool slightly and transfer to a cutting board or serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Homemade Plum Jam & Canning Tips

by joycevandenbergporterJuly 3, 2015

It’s plum season! I have a lovely Santa Rosa Plum tree that grows the most delicious plums that have that perfect balance of sweet and tart. I would have a hard time selling the house and moving because of this tree. One Arbor Day, almost 20 years ago, my very excited kids brought several ~~sticks~~ bare root fruit trees home from school. Now, I will have to admit that these ‘trees’ looked a lot like dead twigs to me, but as a good mother does, I along with my boys, ceremoniously planted them and thus began our now flourishing fruit orchard, home to plum, orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit, nectarine, cherry, kumquat, satsuma, avocado, Asian pear and several apple trees. The queen of the orchard though, is the Santa Rosa Plum tree, one of the unlikely Arbor Day trees which grew from a 3 foot bare root stick to a glorious 25 foot tall beauty. Last year I was out of town when the fruit was ripe, but this year I have picked the fruit that is in reach and have been collecting ripe fruit as it falls to the ground. Some of these get bruised or slightly injured when they fall which makes them less appetizing for eating but perfect for making jam. So I save the perfect, most ripe specimens for my fruit basket and preserve the rest. Homemade jam is wonderful to have around year around, I love it spread on toast or drizzled over plain yogurt for breakfast.

It also makes a great gift. People love handmade farm to table gifts that are made with love. Decorative tape is a really easy way to decorate the lids and adds a bit of personality to the jam. Other easy alternatives are to tie ribbon or for a rustic look try twine or raffia. Fun or pretty labels are an easy way to personalize your jam. Tags can be tied on. Sticker Labels can be purchased and handwritten or run through a printer. www.Onlinelabels.com has labels in pretty much every size and shape you might need and they offer a downloadable template which is very easy to use. The labels I use the most often are label #WL-375WG-100 which is a 3.3333″ round label which is the perfect size for labeling a wide mouth jar.. Label #OL5375WX is a 2″ round label that I use for labeling gift bags or small mouth jars (not a perfect fit but it still looks nice). Canning and preserving is actually a hot new trend (again). If you haven’t started, what are you waiting for…

TIPS: If you have a load of plums but no time to use them, wash them and put them in a ziplock freezer bag and store in the freezer until you’re ready to use (Pit them first if you have time) I recommend labeling the jars with the contents and the date, even if it’s just scribbled on the lid with a sharpie. You can always cover it later with a label. I always regret when I don’t. I always think I will remember but…

SANTA ROSA PLUM JAM

2 lbs fresh plums (about 5 cups coarsely chopped)
3 cups sugar
3/4 cup water

EQUIPMENT
6 half pint canning jars with 2 piece lids
boiling water canning pot with rack
jar lifter (recommended)
jar funnel (recommended)
non-metal spatula(recommended)
labels (optional)

Place the empty canning jars in the canning pot and fill it with water to cover jars by several inches. Boil to sterilize and then remove the jars to a clean rack and let cool slightly (jars should remain hot so don’t take them out too soon).

The lid bases (not the rings) should be heated for 10 minutes to sterilize and help achieve a vacuum seal. This is easiest done in a saucepan kept below a boil.

Remove pits from plums, cut away any bad parts and chop by hand,

OR throw them all into a food processor for an even texture. Keep the peels on as it gives the jam a lovely color and flavor.

Combine plums, sugar and water in a large saucepan. Bring slowly to a boil stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Continue cooking while the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
Test for proper gelling by dipping a spoon into the hot mixture and tipping it sideways. If the jam falls off the spoon in a sheet it is done. If it drips off the spoon, cook a little longer.
Remove from heat and skim foam if necessary

Photo Credit: http://www.gopresto.com/recipes/canning/

Ladle hot jam into hot jars, leaving a 1/4 inch headspace.

Remove any bubbles by running a non-metal spatula between the jar and the jam.

Wipe the rim of the jars clean with a damp paper towel and place lid base on top then lid ring and tighten snugly (fingertip tip tight not as tight as you can make it).

Photo Credit: http://bigblackdogs.net/bread-and-butter-pickles/

Hook the rack on the edge of the pot, keeping the jars just out of the water. Place filled jars one at a time on the rack, then lower jars into hot water, cover and boil (process) 15 minutes

Remove from water using a jar lifter and let cool. You may hear a popping sound as the lids create a vacuum seal.

To test the seal, after 12 to 24 hours after processing, press the center of the lid to see if it is concave. If you can’t tell for sure, remove outer band and gently try to lift the lid with a finger. If it resists, then you have a good vacuum seal.

Jars may be stored at room temperature until opened, then must be stored in the refrigerator.

Homemade Plum Jam

Servings: 3 pints
Time: 90 minutes
Difficulty: medium
Print

2 lbs fresh plums (about 5 cups coarsely chopped)
3 cups sugar
3/4 cup water

EQUIPMENT
6 half pint canning jars with 2 piece lids
boiling water canning pot with rack
jar lifter (recommended)
jar funnel (recommended)
labels (optional)

Place the empty canning jars in the canning pot and fill it with water to cover jars by several inches. Boil to sterilize and then remove the jars to a clean rack and let cool slightly (jars should remain hot so don’t take them out too soon).
The lid bases (not the rings) should be heated for 10 minutes to sterilize and help achieve a vacuum seal. This is easiest done in a saucepan kept below a boil.
Remove pits from plums, cut away any bad parts and chop by hand, OR throw them all into a food processor for an even texture. Keep the peels on as it gives the jam a lovely color and flavor.
Combine plums, sugar and water in a large saucepan. Bring slowly to a boil stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Continue cooking while the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
Test for proper gelling by dipping a spoon into the hot mixture and tipping it sideways. If the jam falls off the spoon in a sheet it is done. If it drips off the spoon, cook a little longer.
Remove from heat and skim foam if necessary
Ladle hot jam into hot jars, leaving a 1/4 inch headspace.
Remove any bubbles by running a non-metal spatula between the jar and the jam.
Wipe the rim of the jars clean with a damp paper towel and place lid base on top then lid ring and tighten snugly (fingertip tip tight not as tight as you can make it).
Using a jar lifter, lower jars into hot water, cover and boil (process) 15 minutes
Remove from water and let cool. You may hear a popping sound as the lids create a vacuum seal.
To test the seal, after 12 to 24 hours after processing, press the center of the lid to see if it is concave. If you can’t tell for sure, remove outer band and gently try to lift the lid with a finger. If it resists, then you have a good vacuum seal.
Jars may be stored at room temperature until opened, then must be stored in the refrigerator.