Honeyed Dandelion Fritters

Honeyed Dandelion Fritters

Honeyed Dandelion Fritters

 

3/4 cup all-purpose white or whole wheat pastry flour (or gluten-free flour mix)

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 tsp. baking powder

Pinch of sea salt

1 egg

1 cup milk (or any dairy-free milk substitute)

1 T. honey

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 tsp. each ground cardamom and cinnamon

High temperature oil for frying (such as coconut, sunflower, canola or peanut)

2 cups freshly picked dandelion flowers*

 

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.  In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt. In another larger bowl, whisk together egg, milk, honey, vanilla and spices. Whisk the flour mix into the liquid mix just until smooth.  Pick up each dandelion flower by its base, dip in the batter, and fry flower-side down. Repeat to fill, but not overcrowd, the pan. Flip each fritter once it is golden brown to fry the other side, then remove with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels.  Serve while still warm, drizzled with honey. Try them with vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top treat!  Dandelion flowers must be freshly picked or else they close up. Late morning or early afternoon are the best times to pick. If you’re up for more work, you can remove the bitter tasting downward-facing green bracts at bottom of each flower.

Shrimp and Creamy Goat Cheese Grits

Shrimp and Creamy Goat Cheese Grits

Shrimp and Creamy Goat Cheese Grits

 

4 cups water

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 ounces goat cheese

1/4 cup parmesan cheese

2 T. unsalted butter, divided

4 slices bacon, chopped

1 pound medium shrimp (about 30), peeled

Freshly ground black pepper

10 button mushrooms, thinly sliced

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1 large tomato, chopped

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1/2 tsp. hot sauce

4 green onions, thinly sliced

 

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and whisk in grits. Cook, whisking frequently, until grits are tender and creamy, 20 to 30 minutes. Whisk in goat cheese, parmesan, and 1 T. butter. Cover and keep warm. Cook bacon in a large skillet until crisp, about 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside. Reserve bacon fat in skillet. Add shrimp to bacon fat and cook, turning once, until bright pink, about 2 minutes. Transfer shrimp to a plate with a slotted spoon. Lower heat to medium; add mushrooms, garlic and tomato to skillet and cook 5 minutes. Add chicken broth, and scrape bottom of skillet with a wooden spoon. Return shrimp to skillet along with lemon juice, remaining butter, and hot sauce and cook, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Divide grits between 4 bowls; top each with shrimp mixture. Top with bacon and green onions.

Miso Butter Noodles

Miso Butter Noodles

Miso Butter Noodles

 

4 oz dry spaghetti

1 T. miso

1/2 tsp mirin

1 tsp soy sauce

1 clove garlic, chopped or grated

4 T. pasta water

2 tsp cooking oil

4 oz ground chicken, pork, turkey, beef or crumbled extra firm tofu

4 to 5 green cabbage leaves, cut into bite size

pinch of salt

1 T. butter

 

Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water by following the directions of the package you are using. Meanwhile, mix miso, mirin, soy sauce, garlic, and pasta water in a mixing bowl and set aside. Heat a large skillet over high heat, add cooking oil; add ground meat, cabbage and pinch of salt. Cook until pork is fully cooked and cabbages are soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the sauce mixture. Mix everything real quick then add the spaghetti and butter. Toss everything together. Transfer to a serving plate and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Maple Hill Manor’s Lemon Souffle Pancake

Maple Hill Manor’s Lemon Souffle Pancake

Maple Hill Manor’s Lemon Souffle Pancake

 

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

3 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. cream of tarter

1 lemon zest (grate or zest outer portion of lemon)

1 T. white sugar

1 1/4 cups milk

1 egg

3 T. butter, melted

 

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, lemon zest, salt and sugar. After sifting, add cream of tarter and lemon zest. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg and melted butter; mix until smooth. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sides, creating crispy edges. Top with fresh blueberries and warm maple syrup.

Blueberry Compote Topping (recommended) – 3 cups frozen or fresh blueberries, unthawed (save a ½ cup for garnish), 1/3 cup sugar, and 1/3 cup water. Combine 1 1/2 cups blueberries, sugar and 1/3 cup water in heavy small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until berries burst, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add remaining 1 cup berries. Cook until compote coats spoon, stirring often, about 8 minutes. (Can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and chill.) Serve warm over Maple Hill Manor’s Lemon Soufflé Pancakes. Garnish with fresh blueberries and powdered sugar for a nice presentation.

Foraged Mulberry and Basil Chia Jam with Purple Opal Basil Microgreens

Foraged Mulberry and Basil Chia Jam with Purple Opal Basil Microgreens

Foraged Mulberry and Basil Chia Jam with Purple Opal Basil Microgreens

 

2 cups chopped fruit (mulberries and rhubarb used here)

1 to 2 T. lemon juice, to taste

1-2 T. honey, agave, maple syrup, sugar, or stevia, to taste

Optional: 1 handful of basil microgreens (purple basil microgreens used here, regular basil or other herbs also okay), plus more for garnish

2 T. chia seeds, plus more if needed

 

Prepare fruit as needed (wash, remove stems, pits seeds, etc.), chop large fruit into pieces, berried can be left whole. Mulberries and chopped rhubarb used here. Transfer the fruit to a saucepan and set over medium heat. Cook until the fruit breaks down and becomes syrupy, 5 to 10 minutes. Mash the fruit with the back of a spatula or slotted spoon, leaving it as smooth or as lumpy as you like. Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice and honey, to taste. Stir in microgreen herbs (micro purple opal basil used here) or regular herbs if using (mince regular herbs finely), until wilted. Stir in the chia seeds. Let stand 5 minutes, until thickened. This won’t quite reach the firm consistency of regular jam, but it will noticeably thicken. If you’d like a thicker consistency, especially with very juicy fruits, stir in more chia seeds 1 tsp at a time. Once the jam has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a jar or other storage container. Store in the fridge for about 2 weeks. The jam will thicken further and become more set once completely chilled. The jam can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before using.

Ground Pork Egg Roll in a Bowl

Ground Pork Egg Roll in a Bowl

Ground Pork Egg Roll in a Bowl

 

2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb. lean ground turkey or pork

1 ½ T. sesame oil

1 ½ tsp. ground ginger

1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

½ tsp. kosher salt

½ tsp. black pepper

1 T. brown sugar

½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

8 cups shredded cabbage

1 ½ cups shredded carrots

2 T. low-sodium soy sauce

 

Heat oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Add the sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper and brown sugar and stir well to combine. Add the chicken broth and the cabbage and stir well. Bring to a simmer and let cook until the cabbage is slightly wilted. Add the carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the soy sauce, taste and adjust seasonings, and serve immediately.

Gigli with Olympic Peninsula Stinging Nettles

Gigli with Olympic Peninsula Stinging Nettles

Gigli with Olympic Peninsula Stinging Nettles

 

3 to 4 ounces young stinging nettles

1/2 cup raw walnuts

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

12 ounces gigli pasta

1/3 cup grated ricotta salata

2 T. Calabrian chili oil

8 to 10 edible spring flowers

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. In the meantime, put on gloves and clean the nettles, removing the stems and keeping just the leaves. Rinse the leaves, then blanch them in the boiling water for less than a minute. Cool them down under cold water or in an ice bath.  When the nettles are cool, drain them, making sure to remove the excess water. In a food processor on low speed, blend the nettles, walnuts, olive oil. and Parmigiano. until the pesto is creamy but not liquefied (it should still have some texture). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gigli until al dente and drain. In a medium pan over medium heat, quickly sauté the pasta and pesto for a minute, adding pasta water as necessary to bind the ingredients. Plate in four bowls. Finish with the ricotta salata, a drizzle of Calabrian chili oil, and a couple of edible flowers. Enjoy the spring season on a plate.

Frozen Peas with Lemon Butter

Frozen Peas with Lemon Butter

Frozen Peas with Lemon Butter

 

2 T. salted butter

1 (1-pound) bag frozen peas

1 tsp. kosher salt tsp.

ground black pepper

Zest and juice from 1 medium lemon

 

Add butter and frozen peas to a 12″ skillet over medium heat. Sauté 1 minute, stirring frequently to melt the butter and heat the peas through. Raise heat to medium-high. Add salt, pepper, lemon zest and juice. Cook 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Serve immediately.

Cream of Lovage Soup with Edible Spring Herb Flowers

Cream of Lovage Soup with Edible Spring Herb Flowers

Cream of Lovage Soup with Edible Spring Herb Flowers

 

2 T. salted butter

1 medium cooking onion, finely chopped

2 cups loosely packed, chopped fresh lovage leaves

8 cups chicken stock

4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

Coarse sea salt and cracked black pepper

Small handful fresh spring herb flowers

2 T. hemp or good quality olive oil

 

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly translucent. Add the lovage and sauté until it wilts, 1-2 minutes. Add the chicken stock and potatoes and increase the heat to medium-high. Bring to a boil for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and break apart easily with a fork. Remove from the heat and let cool completely. Once the soup is completely cool, working in batches, puree the soup in a blender until smooth. Return to the pot and warm through over medium heat. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and drizzle with hemp or olive oil. Serve garnished with fresh herb flower blossoms. I love rosemary and sweet cicely, but experiment with your own favorites.

Cheesy French Bread Pizza

Cheesy French Bread Pizza

Cheesy French Bread Pizza

 

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 (1-pound) loaf French bread, halved lengthwise

8 ounces shredded low-moisture mozzarella, divided

1 cup jarred marinara sauce, such as Rao’s

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

On the side: Mixed green salad

 

Heat the oven to 425 degrees with a rack placed in the upper third of the oven. Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until aromatic, 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Place the bread halves cut-side down on a cutting board. Place a large baking sheet on top of the bread and press down firmly to flatten. Flip right-side up and place on the baking sheet. Brush with the garlic butter. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the bread halves. Transfer to the oven and cook until the cheese is melted, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the sauce, followed by the remaining cheese and return to the oven. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and browned, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with the parsley and drizzle with olive oil. Cut into slices and serve with salad on the side.

 

Servings: 4

Calories: 794

Fat: 41g

Fiber: 5g

Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter

Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter

Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter

 

2- 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons baking powder

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

8 tablespoons cold butter cut into small cubes

1 cup buttermilk

 

1/2 cup butter softened

3 tablespoons honey

 

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with non stick spray or use a baking liner.

Sift flour, baking powder, sugar and salt into large mixing bowl. Add in chopped butter and mix with hands or a pastry cutter until it becomes a loose crumble. Add buttermilk and mix until it becomes a sticky ball. Place the dough on a floured surface and roll into about 1 inch thick. Fold it over and roll out again. Repeat 4 more times. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. Cut biscuits using a biscuit cutter or glass. Place biscuits on a baking sheet making sure they touch. Bake 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. In a small bowl add softened butter and honey mix until combined. Set aside. Remove biscuits and serve warm with honey butter.  Notes:  Freeze unbaked biscuits, uncovered, on baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a resealable plastic bag. Freeze up to 3 months. Do not thaw before baking, you may need to add a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Blackberry Lemon Bread

Blackberry Lemon Bread

Blackberry Lemon Bread

 

1-2/3 cups all-purpose flour (200 grams)

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup sugar

zest of 1 lemon

1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature (or plain Greek yogurt)

3 eggs, room temperature

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon lemon oil

1/2 cup flavorless cooking oil such as canola

5 tablespoons blackberry jam

Optional: 2 to 4 drops blue food coloring**

1 cup blackberries, tossed with 1 tablespoon flour

Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered confectioners sugar

pinch of salt

2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray an 8-1/2 x 4-1/2 inch loaf pan with cooking spray (or line the pan with parchment paper).  Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk or sift to distribute the ingredients and get the lumps out.  Place the sugar and lemon zest in a mixing bowl. Rub the sugar between your fingers to infuse the lemon zest. Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla, and lemon oil. Whisk until everything is well blended.  Use a silicone spatula to stir in half of the dry ingredients until well blended, then stir in the other half of the flour mixture.  Pour the oil into the batter gradually while stirring with a silicone spatula.  Transfer 1/2 cup of the batter into a small bowl and stir in the blackberry jam and blue food coloring if desired.  Stir the blackberries into the larger bowl of batter and pour about 2/3 of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.  Pour the blackberry jam batter into the pan, then top it with the rest of the batter in the larger bowl. Transfer the loaf pan to the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until the loaf cake starts pulling away from the pan’s edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.  Let the loaf bread cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and remove it from the pan. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.  Lemon Glaze: Add the powdered sugar and salt to a bowl. Pour in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and whisk until smooth. If you want a thinner glaze, slowly add more lemon juice until you get the consistency you like.  Drizzle the glaze over the top of the cooled loaf bread. Let the bread sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes or until the glaze firms up.  Garnish with fresh blackberries or candied lemon slices.  You can store this cake at room temperature for 1 day or in the fridge for 4 days. Let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. If you don’t add the blackberries, you can store the loaf cake at room temperature for 4 days.

Artisan Seed No Knead Bread

Artisan Seed No Knead Bread

Artisan Seed No Knead Bread

 

3 cups bread flour

¼ tsp. dry active yeast

1 ¼ tsp. salt

2 T. sunflower kernels

2 T. pumpkin seeds

1 T. flax seeds

1 T. poppy seeds

1 T. sesame seeds

1 ⅝ cups water

 

For the topping: (optional)

1 T. of each kind of seeds, all mixed together

 

Basic Instructions: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, and salt, and all the seeds. Add the water and mix together with a wooden spoon until just combined.  You will have a sticky, shaggy ball of dough. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours, and do not disturb!  After rising, the dough will be very sticky! Cover your hands with oil, then stretch the dough and fold it into thirds. Then turn the dough 90° and stretch it out again, and fold it into thirds.  Gently  shape the lump into a round loaf with the ends tucked under, set aside.  Pour the seed topping mixture onto a flat surface and spread it out, then roll the top and sides of the loaf in the seeds until it is well coated. Slash the top of the loaf, then allow the loaf to rest 15 minutes.  Your oven should be very hot at 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and you should have a cast irons skillet heated in the oven. Transfer your loaf to the hot pan and get ready to pop it into the oven. This next step is optional, but it will help your bread to form an amazing crust. For the best artisan style crust, you need to form steam in the oven just as the loaf goes in. Some bakers us a spray bottle of water and spray inside the oven to create this steam. I have found that the easiest way for me is to just throw a few ice cubes in right before I pop the bread in. The steam in the oven will allow your bread to expand for longer before the crust hardens, and give you bigger bubbles and a better texture! Bake 35-40 minutes.  Allow to cool before slicing!

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

1 T. salted butter

2 T. all-purpose flour

¾ cups milk

2 T. grainy mustard

2 cups grated aged cheddar cheese

1 cup (1-inch) cubed smoked ham

2–3 large baking apples, cored, cut into ¼-inch slices (peel left on)

1 tsp. grated lemon zest

Flaked sea salt and cracked black pepper

1½ cups all-purpose flour

2 T. thyme leaves

½ tsp. fine sea salt

½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch cubes

5–6 T. cold water

1 large egg

1 T. milk

 

To make the pastry, place the flour, thyme, and salt in a food processor. Pulse once to combine. Add all the butter and pulse a few more times until the mixture is crumbly and the butter is cut down into pea-sized pieces. Add the cold water, 1 Tbsp at a time, pulsing in between to bring the dough together. Dump the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and form it into a disc. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. To make the filling, first melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and add the flour. Stir to combine and cook until the flour begins to brown and has a slightly nutty aroma. While whisking constantly, add the milk and continue to stir until the roux thickens. Remove from the heat and add the grainy mustard. Set aside.  In a large bowl, place the cheese, ham, apple slices, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss lightly just to combine. Place the dough on a well-floured work surface and roll it into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet. Spread the mustard roux over the middle of the pastry, leaving a 2-inch-wide border along the perimeter. Top with the cheese, ham, and apple mixture. Fold the bare edges of the dough in towards the centre to form a rustic crust. Make an egg wash by beating the egg with the milk. Brush the crust with the egg wash and bake the galette for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove the galette from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before serving

3 Ingredient Pesto Meatballs

3 Ingredient Pesto Meatballs

3 Ingredient Pesto Meatballs

 

1 lb. ground chicken (or beef)

1/3 cup panko crumbs or oat bran

¼ cup jarred pesto

 

In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, panko and pesto. Salt, to taste. Mix until fully combined. Roll meat mixture into balls using 1 tbsp mixture per meatball. This recipe will make ~24 meatballs. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the pan and cook until browned on the outside and no longer pink on the inside, stirring and flipping the meatballs throughout. They will cook in about 6-8 minutes, depending on the size. Remove from the pan and serve with your favorite pasta recipe.

Bacon Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

Bacon Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

Bacon Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

 

3-4 slices bacon, cut into bite-size pieces

1/4 cabbage, sliced thinly

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/4 cup water

1 fresh Yakisoba packet (comes with noodles and seasoning powder)

Kewpie mayonnaise, aonori (seaweed flakes), or pickled ginger, for garnish

 

Cook bacon in large skillet over medium-high heat until almost crispy. Set aside. Drain all but 1 tablespoon bacon fat. (For non-bacon option, start with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.)  Add cabbage to bacon fat and cook until soft. Set aside.   In same pan, heat oil and water. Add noodles and pan fry 2-3 minutes, until soft. Add bacon and cabbage. Sprinkle in seasoning powder and combine until even.   Divide among 3 plates. Garnish with a few lines of Kewpie mayonnaise, a handful of aonori, and a pinch of pickled ginger.

German Currywurst

German Currywurst

German Currywurst

 

1 T. olive oil

1/2 C. chopped yellow onion

1 small clove garlic

1 1/2 T. quality curry powder

1 T. quality sweet paprika

1/8 tsp. ground cloves

1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 C. ketchup

1 T. tomato paste

5 T. vegetable or chicken broth

1 T. apple cider vinegar

1 T. honey

1 tsp. quality Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. sugar

1/4 tsp. prepared yellow mustard

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for more heat)

4 genuine German bratwursts, bockwurst, rotwurst or weisswurst

extra curry powder for sprinkling

French fries or crispy bread rolls (Brötchen) for serving

 

Heat the oil in a small saucepan and cook the onions just until soft and translucent. Do not brown them. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the curry powder, paprika, cloves and cinnamon and cook for 30 seconds. Add all remaining ingredients and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium, cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and puree until smooth.  Let the mixture cool completely and then refrigerate for a day before using to allow time for the flavors to meld.   Makes 1 1/2 C..  The curry ketchup will keep for up to a month in the fridge.

 

HOW TO MAKE CURRYWURST: If the sausages are not pre-cooked, first poach them in lightly simmering water.  The next step is to grill/fry them to finish them off.

You can either grill or pan-fry the sausages. The important thing is to cook them until they develop a thick and crispy browned outer crust.  (So if you’re pan-frying, be sure to use enough oil.)  Some curry wurst stands also cut vertical slits along the currywurst to prevent them from bursting open while cooking and then the sausages are sliced along the lines into bite-sized chunks before serving. To serve, slice the wursts vertically into bite-sized pieces, top with some curry ketchup, and sprinkle with curry powder.  Serve with French fries or a crispy bread roll (Brötchen).  Currywurst and fries/Brötchen are served in paper food trays and eaten with currywurst toothpicks.

Savory Roasted Cherries

Savory Roasted Cherries

Savory Roasted Cherries

 

4 C. pitted cherries

1 T. olive oil

1/4 tsp. fine sea salt

1/4 black pepper

3 T. fresh parsley, minced

 

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Use a cherry pitter (or one of these techniques if you don’t have one) to pit the cherries. Toss the cherries in a bowl with the olive oil, salt, pepper. Spread the cherries on the lined sheet pan and roast for 15 minutes. Remove the cherries from the oven and sprinkle them with the parsley. Toss gently when they’re cool enough to handle. Eat the cherries warm as a side or keep them refrigerated (for up to five days) and use them in salads or eat them as a snack.

Pears Poached with Cider & Bay

Pears Poached with Cider & Bay

Pears Poached with Cider & Bay

 

4 pears

1/3 C. sugar

2-3 strips lemon peel

4-5 bay leaves, torn in half

1 ¼ C. dry hard cider

 

Peel the pears, but leave them intact. Put them in a saucepan into which they will fit fairly snugly in one layer. Add the sugar, lemon zest and bay leaves. Pour over the cider, then add enough water just to cover the pears. Bring to a simmer, cover and simmer until the pears are tender—the time this takes can vary greatly depending on the ripeness of the pears; it could be five minutes for ripe pears, or 25 for very firm ones, so keep checking them with the tip of a small, sharp knife. When the pears are done, remove them from the pan with a slotted spoon and place in a dish. Turn up the heat under the liquor in the pan. Boil it down until reduced by at least half and tastes sweet and intense. Pour the reduced liquor over the pears in their dish, leave to cool completely, then chill. Before serving, spoon the juice in the dish back over the chilled pears and top with a spoonful of crème fraîche, if desired

Chanterelle-Apricot Jam

Chanterelle-Apricot Jam

Chanterelle-Apricot Jam

 

4 C. chanterelles

2½ C. fresh diced apricots

7 C. sugar

¼ C. fresh lemon juice

1 box SURE-JELL Fruit Pectin

½ tsp. butter or margarine

 

Sterilize (9) 8-ounce jam jars and lids in boiling water.

 

Finely dice the chanterelles. Reduce chanterelles in a deep pan under mediumlow heat for 15 minutes, until moisture has bubbled off and mushroom mixture is thick. Measure out 2½ C..  Combine mushrooms and apricots to measure exactly 5 C.. Add to the saucepan with sugar, lemon juice, pectin, and butter. Bring to a full rolling boil and boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Ladle immediately into prepared jars, filling to within ¼ inch of tops. Wipe jar rims and threads. Cover with two-piece lids. Screw bands on tightly. Place jars on an elevated rack in a canner. Lower rack into canner. Water should cover jars by 1 to 2 inches. Cover and bring water to a gentle boil. Process for 10 minutes, adding boiling water as needed to keep the jars covered. (Add 12 minutes to the processing time for high elevation.) Remove jars and place upright on a towel to cool completely. After the jars cool, check seals by pressing the middles of lids with your finger. If lids spring back, lids are not sealed and refrigeration is necessary. Store and enjoy. This is not refrigerator jam, but it can be refrigerated to prolong shelf life and the fresh taste.  Note: If you’d like a low-sugar version, follow instructions for low-sugar SURE-JELL, making sure the mushroom-to-fruit ratio is 50/50. Or try Pomona Pectin.

Wild Nettle Green Curry

Wild Nettle Green Curry

Wild Nettle Green Curry

 

1 can full-fat coconut milk

1 T. green curry paste

1 C. water

1 T. fish sauce

1 tsp. coconut sugar (can substitute brown sugar)

1 C. lightly packed nettle leaves (can substitute other mild wild greens such as lambs quarter or orache)

2–3 C. pre-cooked vegetables such as sweet potatoes, zucchini, red pepper, peas, leftover chicken, etc. (or meat)

Optional: Warm rice for serving. Thai basil for garnish.

 

In a medium-sized pan, melt the solid lump of coconut fat (scraped from the top of the tin of coconut milk) over medium-high heat. Add the curry paste and sizzle it for 2 minutes’ until it becomes intensely fragrant. Stir in the remaining liquid from the coconut milk can, as well as the water, fish sauce and sugar. Bring the mixture to a light boil, with small bubbles breaking the surface. Drop the nettle leaves into the bubbling curry and let them cook for 3 minutes. Remove the pan from the stove and set down on a heat-proof surface. Using a stick blender, blend the contents of the curry until smooth, then return the pan to the heat and continue to let simmer until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in your pre-cooked vegetables (or meat) and let them heat through. Adjust salt to taste and serve the curry over warm rice.

Lemon Cardamom Sandwich Cookies

Lemon Cardamom Sandwich Cookies

Lemon Cardamom Sandwich Cookies

 

1 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3-1/2 cups powdered sugar

 

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon ground cardamom

1-3/4 cups granulated sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 medium egg

1 egg yolk

 

1/2 upc white chocolate chips, melted

1/4 cup candied lemon peel, finely chopped

 

To make brown butter buttercream filling: In a medium pot or skillet, cook butter over medium heat. Stirring occasionally, cook about 10 minutes until butter reaches a golden brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. The butter will be somewhat solidified, but not hard (you can speed up this process by placing butter in refrigerator.) Once cooled, use a stand mixer to beat butter until light and fluffy. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Slowly mix ingredients together until almost combined. Continue to beat mixture on high for 5-7 minutes until light and fluffy. Place buttercream into a piping bag with a piping tip of your choice. To make cookies: Preheat oven to 350°. In a medium pot or skillet, gently melt butter over low heat. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, lemon zest and ground cardamom. Set aside. Add sugar to a mixing bowl of a stand mixer. Once butter is melted, but not hot, add to sugar. Mix using paddle attachment. Add vanilla, egg and yolk to the bowl. Mix until combined. Add dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. Using a 3-ounce cookie scoop, scoop the cookie dough onto a parchment lined sheet pan. You will get approximately 13 cookies (one extra cookie to taste test, of course!) Bake cookies for about 14-16 minutes. Allow cookies to cool completely before assembling sandwiches. To assemble: Pipe a thick swirl of buttercream on 12 cookies. Top each with another cookie. Drizzle one half of the sandwich cookie with melted white chocolate. Before the white chocolate sets, top with candied lemon peel.

Kale and Quinoa Salad with Black Beans

Kale and Quinoa Salad with Black Beans

Kale and Quinoa Salad with Black Beans

 

1 cup quinoa I used a combo of red and white quinoa, rinsed very well

2 cups vegetable broth

2 cloves garlic minced

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice

3 tablespoons vegetable broth

1 teaspoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed

1 teaspoon ancho chile powder or other pure chile powder, not a blend

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon chipotle chile powder or to taste

1/2 tsp salt optional, or to taste

4-6 cups chopped kale leaves about 4-5 ounces

1 15-ounce can black beans about 1 1/2 cups, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup grated carrot

1/2 red bell pepper chopped

1 avocado optional, sliced or cubed

additional lemon juice and seasonings to taste

 

Heat a saucepan. Add the rinsed and drained quinoa and the garlic and toast it until almost dry. Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover. Simmer until all the water is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool. While the quinoa is cooking, make the dressing in a small bowl or measuring cup: whisk together the lemon juice, 3 tablespoons broth, chia/flax seeds, chile powders, cumin, and salt. Allow to stand until the chia seeds start to thicken the dressing. Place the kale in a large serving bowl. Add half of the dressing and massage it into the kale using a wringing motion until the kale is very tender. Two minutes of massaging should do it, but the longer, the better. Add the quinoa, black beans, carrot, and bell pepper, along with the remaining dressing. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving, check the seasoning and add more lemon juice, chile powder, cumin, and salt, as needed. Stir in chopped avocado, if desired, or serve with slices of avocado on the side.

Four Way Rainbow Smoothies

Four Way Rainbow Smoothies

 

Coconut Paradise

 

1½ cups natural coconut water

⅔ cup frozen pineapple chunks

½ frozen banana, cut into chunks (see Chef’s Tip)

10 fresh mint leaves

2 tablespoons coconut milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Dash of kosher salt

 

(1 SERVING = 1¼ CUPS)

Calories 126

Total Fat 4.1 g 6

Fiber 3.9 g

 

 

Strawberry Blush

 

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

1 cup frozen strawberries

1 5-ounce block soft silken tofu

1/2 cup diced cooked beets

1/2 cup frozen dark sweet cherries

2 teaspoons chia seeds

2 teaspoons ground flax seeds

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dash of kosher salt

 

Serving Size: 1 ½ C.

Calories 193

Fat 6.5 g

Fiber 6.7

 

 

TropicBerry Delight

 

1 ½ C. Unsweetened Almond Milk

1 C. Frozen Mango Chunks

1 C. frozen Blueberries

½ cup frozen (or fresh) cauliflower florets, thawed

2 teaspoons chia seeds

2 teaspoons ground flax seeds

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Dash of kosher salt

 

Serving: 1 C.

Calories 168

Fat 6 g

Fiber 7.3 g

 

 

Green Goodness

 

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

1 frozen banana, cut into chunks

2½ cups (packed) baby spinach leaves

1 cup (packed) coarsely chopped kale leaves

2 tablespoons tahini

½ teaspoon matcha powder

Dash of kosher salt

 

Serving Size: 1 ¾ C.

Calories 196

Fat 10 g

Fiber 6.5 g

Zucchini Butter Toasts with Hazelnuts and Herbs

Zucchini Butter Toasts with Hazelnuts and Herbs

Zucchini Butter Toasts with Hazelnuts and Herbs

 

2 pounds zucchini (about 4 medium)

1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

1/4 cup raw hazelnuts

1 large shallot

1 small clove garlic

1 small lemon

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

4 thick slices sourdough or other crusty bread

Handful small fresh basil or mint leaves, for serving

Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes, for serving

Flaky salt, for serving

 

Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 350°F. Grate 2 pounds zucchini on the large holes of a box grater (about 6 cups) into a colander set over a large bowl. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of the kosher salt and toss to combine. Set aside to drain for 15 minutes. Spread 1/4 cup raw hazelnuts out in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Transfer to the oven and toast, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and golden-brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, dice 1 large shallot. Smash and peel 1 small garlic clove. Finely grate the zest of 1 small lemon. Halve the zested lemon and reserve.

When the zucchini is ready, press on it with your hands or a wooden spoon to push out some of the liquid. Transfer the zucchini to a clean kitchen towel, wrap it up, and squeeze out as much water as you can to get it as dry as possible. You should have about 3 cups. Wrap the toasted hazelnuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub vigorously to remove as much of the skins as possible (don’t worry about any skin that doesn’t easily come off). Transfer the nuts to a cutting board and coarsely chop. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large, high-sided sauté pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, under softened and translucent, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the zucchini, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini cooks down, caramelizes, and softens considerably, about 15 minutes. Reduce the heat if the zucchini starts to burn. The mixture should be jammy and spreadable. Remove from the heat. Toast 4 thick bread slices, then rub one side of each slice with the garlic clove. Divide the zucchini butter between the garlic-rubbed toast and spread out evenly in a thick layer. Garnish with the hazelnuts, fresh basil or mint leaves, and a pinch or two of Aleppo pepper and flaky salt. Squeeze the juice of the reserved lemon halves over the toasts and serve.

White Cheddar Soup with Crispy Bacon

White Cheddar Soup with Crispy Bacon

White Cheddar Soup with Crispy Bacon

 

3 Tablespoons unsalted butter

1 1/2 cups finely chopped onion

1 Tablespoon minced garlic

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 1/2 cups chicken stock

1 1/2 cups half-and-half

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 cup dry white wine

12 ounces grated sharp white cheddar cheese

kosher salt

6 bacon slices, cut into 1 inch pieces and cooked until crisp

6 green onions, including 2 inches of green tops, coarsely chopped

 

Heat butter in a large, heavy pot over medium heat. When hot, add the onion and sauté until softened, for 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute more. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook, stirring for 2 minutes. Add the stock and half-and-half and bring mixture to a simmer. Add the cayenne pepper and wine. Add the cheese, a little at a time, stirring until smooth after each addition. Taste soup and season with salt, as needed. Soup can be prepared 1 day ahead; cool, cover and refrigerate. Reheat over medium heat. To serve, ladle soup into 6 bowls and garnish each serving with bacon pieces and green onions.

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells

Taco Stuffed Pasta Shells

 

18 uncooked jumbo pasta shells

1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)

2 teaspoons chili powder

3 ounces fat-free cream cheese, cubed

1 bottle (16 ounces) taco sauce, divided

3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend, divided

20 baked tortilla chip scoops, coarsely crushed

 

Preheat oven to 350°. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water; drain again. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook and crumble beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink, 6-8 minutes. Stir in chili powder, cream cheese and 1/2 cup taco sauce until blended. Stir in 1/4 cup shredded cheese. Spoon about 2 tablespoons filling into each shell. Place in an 11×7-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with remaining taco sauce. Bake, covered, until heated through, 20-25 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese; bake, uncovered, until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chips.

Sweet ‘N’ Tangy Flank Steak

Sweet ‘N’ Tangy Flank Steak

Sweet ‘N’ Tangy Flank Steak

 

1/3 C. reduced-sodium soy sauce

1/3 C. brown sugar

1/4 C. scallions, sliced

1 T. sesame oil

1 T. sesame seeds

2 tsp. chopped garlic

1 tsp. minced fresh ginger

1 flank steak (about 2 lbs)

 

Stir soy sauce, sugar, scallions, sesame oil, sesame seeds, garlic and ginger together in a bowl. Fold the flank steak into thirds. Place in a large resealable plastic food storage bag. Pour the soy sauce and brown sugar mixture into the bag. Seal bag and turn over to cover steak. Place in refrigerator for two hours. Heat grill or broiler. Remove steak from bag. Place marinade in small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes. Grill or broil steak for 5 minutes per side or until meat registers 135 degrees. Allow meat to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Brown Butter Corn

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Brown Butter Corn

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Brown Butter Corn

 

4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs (about 1¼ pounds)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2garlic cloves, finely grated or minced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1½ cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (from 1 to 2 ears)

½ cup torn basil leaves

Lime wedges, for serving

2 scallions, thinly sliced, for serving

 

Season chicken all over with salt and pepper. Rub garlic and thyme on chicken and set aside while preparing the rest of the ingredients. Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter, letting butter melt. Add chicken and sear, undisturbed, until browned on both sides, about 4 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate. Over medium heat, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the foam subsides and it smells nutty and toasty, 2 to 3 minutes. (Watch carefully to see that it doesn’t burn.) Add corn and a big pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté until tender and golden brown, 2 minutes. Add chicken back to the skillet. Cover and cook until chicken is cooked through and corn is caramelized, about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and taste corn, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Stir in basil and squeeze 2 lime wedges over the top. Serve garnished with sliced scallions and more lime wedges.

Rhubarb-Blood Orange Parfaits

Rhubarb-Blood Orange Parfaits

Rhubarb-Blood Orange Parfaits

 

You can use a regular orange, of course, but I found that the blood orange deepened the color of the fruit compote, making for prettier contrasting layers.

 

1-1/2 lb. rhubarb, washed, trimmed, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1 cup sugar

1 medium blood orange, zested (about 1 tsp.) and juiced (2-3 Tbsp.)

1 tsp. vanilla

Pinch salt

2 cups heavy cream, cold

 

Place rhubarb in a medium saucepan with all but 1-2 Tbsp. of the sugar (reserve remaining sugar for whipped cream).  Add orange zest, juice, vanilla, and salt, and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.  Reduce heat slightly and gently simmer 7-10 minutes until rhubarb is soft but still chunky.  Let cool.  Transfer to medium bowl and refrigerate several hours until chilled. Just before serving, whisk the heavy cream in a medium bowl until the wires leave trails.  Add the remaining sugar and continue whisking until thick and an upswing of the whisk leaves medium peaks.  To assemble, layer rhubarb mixture and whipped cream in each of four bowls, beginning with rhubarb and ending with cream.  Serve immediately.

Shrimp Tostadas with Lime Crema  

Shrimp Tostadas with Lime Crema  

Shrimp Tostadas with Lime Crema

 

3/4 cup sour cream

1 medium lime, zested and juiced

1/2 tsp. honey

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

2 Tbsp. olive oil, plus 1 Tbsp. for shrimp

4 to 8 corn tortillas

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 tsp. paprika

1/4 tsp. cumin

Pinch cayenne

1 large avocado, cubed

Chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and black pepper to taste

 

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and salt. Set aside. Line a plate with paper towels. In a small frying pan, heat 2 Tbsp. of oil. When shimmering hot, fry the corn tortillas, one at a time, until crispy, golden, and puffed, about two minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. Heat the remaining 1 Tbsp. of oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, sprinkle the shrimp with paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot pan and sauté until the shrimp have coiled and turned from gray to pink, about 4 minutes. Remove from the heat. To serve, place a tortilla on a plate, slather with lime crema, top with shrimp and avocado, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with corn and bean salad and additional lime crema on the side. Dig in.

Grandma Norma’s Wild Huckleberry Tart

Grandma Norma’s Wild Huckleberry Tart

Grandma Norma’s Wild Huckleberry Tart

 

1 cup flour

2 tablespoons sugar

½ cup chilled butter, cut into small chunks, plus additional to grease the springform pan

1 tablespoon milk (or non-dairy substitute)

 

2 cups huckleberries, plus 2 additional cups to top the baked tart

½ cup sugar

2 tablespoons flour

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 pinch salt

 

Combine all ingredients in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until they come together in a ball. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the filling. Gently toss all the ingredients together in a large bowl until combined. Set aside. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and coat the sides of the pan lightly with butter to prevent sticking. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Working with your fingers, press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan and up the side about 1 inch high. Pour the huckleberry filling evenly over the crust and bake for 40 minutes on the center rack of the oven. Remove the tart from the oven and immediately pour the reserved fresh huckleberries over the top. The heat from the baked filling will partially cook these berries. Place the tart on a baking rack to cool completely. Remove the tart from the springform pan and gently transfer to a serving plate. Slice into wedges and top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to serve.

Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Fudge

 

Use quality chocolate. The better the chocolate, the better the fudge.

 

1 cup (6 oz.) semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 tsp. vanilla

2¼ cups sugar

1 stick (4 oz.) unsalted butter

¾ cup evaporated milk

16 large marshmallows

¼ tsp. salt

 

Line an 8-inch square cake pan with foil. Get your handheld electric mixer ready and have some oven mitts nearby.  To a large bowl, add the chocolate chips and vanilla. Set aside.  In a medium, 4-quart saucepan (no smaller or it will boil over), add the sugar, butter, evaporated milk, marshmallows, and salt. Stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, bring to a boil over medium heat. You want the marshmallows to be just about melted by the time the bubbling starts. If they’re not, reduce the heat a bit until they do. Once melted, bring the mixture to a heavy boil and, stirring, set the timer for 5 minutes. Careful—the hot mixture can spatter.  Remove the pot from the heat immediately, and carefully pour the hot mixture over the chocolate chips. On low speed, blend with the mixer until uniformly brown (blending on a higher speed will introduce air bubbles, which you don’t want). Quickly pour the fudge into your prepared pan. Let it cool. Cover and refrigerate until firm. Cut into 1-inch blocks with a hot knife (run the knife under hot water and wipe). Store covered in the refrigerator for about 1 week. Makes 2 lbs.

Goat Cheese Ice Cream with Dried Cherries in Anisette

Goat Cheese Ice Cream with Dried Cherries in Anisette

Goat Cheese Ice Cream with Dried Cherries in Anisette

 

5 large egg yolks

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 1/2 cups heavy cream

8 oz. soft goat cheese, crumbled

3 oz. dried cherries

4 oz. anisette

 

In a large bowl, mix the egg yolks and sugar until combined. (Save the leftover egg whites in the freezer for macaroons or pavlovas.) Pour the cream into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat. As soon as it comes to a boil, remove the pan from the heat. Gradually whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot cream into the egg mixture to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling. Slowly whisk the egg mixture into the pot of cream. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon. Do not let it boil. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the goat cheese. Let cool completely. Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour into a container and freeze until scoopable, 6 to 8 hours. For the cherry topping, simmer the dried cherries in the anisette in a small saucepan for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the cherries are soft and the liquid is reduced to a syrup. Remove from the heat and chill until cold. (I like the resulting subtle anise flavor, but for a stronger hit, add a splash of anisette off the heat.) Serve a scoop of ice cream with a tablespoon or two of cherries and syrup drizzled over the top.

Easy Fried Halloumi Recipe with Warmed Honey

Easy Fried Halloumi Recipe with Warmed Honey

Easy Fried Halloumi Recipe with Warmed Honey

 

extra virgin olive oil

8 ounces Halloumi cheese, pat dry and cut into ½-inch sticks

¼ cup honey

2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

crushed red pepper flakes (I used Aleppo pepper)

 

In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.

When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the halloumi sticks in one single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook for 1 to 2 minute on one side, until a golden brown crust forms. Using a pair of tongs, turn over and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes watching for that beautiful crust to form. Meanwhile, warm your honey either in a skillet or put your tightly-closed jar in warm water to help the honey loosen a bit. Transfer the fried halloumi to a serving plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds and a dash of red chili flakes or Aleppo pepper. Drizzle with the warmed honey all over (serve unused honey in a small bowl to the side). If you like, arrange some fruit such as grapes, figs, or berries on the same platter around the cheese. Serve immediately!

Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

 

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 ¾ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon active dry yeast

1 ½ cups water (room temperature)

 

Form the dough: In a big bowl mix the flour, salt and yeast together. Pour water into the bowl and using a spatula or a wooden spoon mix it until well incorporated. You do not need to activate the yeast before, even though we’re using active dry yeast. The slow rising process will do the trick. Allow it to rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit on your counter or inside your unheated oven for 12 to 24 hours. Preheat your oven: Preheat oven to 450°F. Add your cast iron pot to the oven as it’s heating and heat it as well until it’s at 450°F. Usually when the oven is done preheating your pot should be hot enough as well. Remove the pot from the oven and remove the lid from it. Use oven mitts, as to not burn yourself. Shape the dough: Flour your hands really well and also sprinkle a bit of flour over the dough. With your floured hands gently remove the dough from the bowl and roughly shape it into a ball. Sprinkle some extra flour directly into the bottom of the pot. Take the ball of dough and drop it into the pot. Cover the pot with the lid and place it back in the oven. Alternatively, you can also place the ball of dough onto a piece of parchment paper, then lift the parchment paper and drop it in the pot, with parchment paper and all. This could also ensure that your bread doesn’t stick at all to the bottom of the pot. I have found that if I use parchment paper, the bread doesn’t brown so much on the sides, but otherwise it’s still crusty and delicious. Finish the bread: Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, after which remove the lid and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove the bread from the pot, it should fall out easily. Let cool completely before slicing into it and serving.