Friday, October 31, 2008

No Croutons Required - The Winner of the Hearty Soup Challenge

As usual, there was some tough competition, but the votes are in and Ashley of Method is the winner of the Hearty Vegetarian Soup challenge with her inspired Pumpkin Chili. This thick veggie and bean soup is a perfect autumn creation. Congratulations Ashley!

Holler will be hosting November's Edition of No Croutons Required. This month we are asking for hearty soups or salads containing pasta.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Savoury Cheese Crackers

Somehow or other, I've had more kitchen disasters in the last few weeks than I have had in the past two years. First, there was a cornmeal shortbread that tempted me, and though the dough was delicious, it didn't hold together and into the trash can it went. After that, there were the little discs of goat cheese that I tried to fry up to serve with sauted portabello mushrooms. It was all good until it was time to flip them over. I ended up with a glob of cheese, but I spread it over some toast, along with a mushroom, and so managed to salvage dinner. Finally, we come to this recipe for Savoury Cheese Crackers.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I was treated to a visit from my Dad this past weekend. On the afternoon he arrived, I decided I wanted to make a little snack. I was short on ingredients but had everything I needed for these crackers. Into the food processor went the dry ingredients, butter and cheese. At this point, I was supposed to have a dough to knead. Well, the mixture just resembled flour. Perhaps my ingredients were too cold? What to do? Not wanting to waste cheese and butter, and still determined to make something for my Dad to enjoy, I threw in a couple of eggs, pulsed them a few times and so I had a dough. I probably could have managed with just one egg, but no matter, as they ended up turning out well and the egg gave the crackers an extra richness and a slight crispiness. They are essentially a cross between a cracker and a savory cookie.
Savory Cheese Crackers

1 1/4 cups of flour
1 teaspoon of dry mustard
1 teaspoon of sea salt
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1/2 cup of cold butter
2 cups of cold grated extra old cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of cold grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs


Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine the flour, mustard, salt and cayenne in a food processor.

Add the butter and cheeses and pulse. Now add the eggs and pulse until you get a dough. Turn out onto a whole wheat floured board and knead a few times. Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll out the dough until it is roughly 1/8 thick. Cut with a cookie cutter of your choice and transfer to the baking sheet. Repeat with each portion of dough, and reroll the scraps.

Bake in batches in a preheated 375 degree oven for 10 - 12 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack and serve at room temperature.

Makes roughly 3 dozen.

Savory crepes filled with broccolini cheese soufflé

I have certain preconceptions, must admit it. That feeling of “haven’t seen it but don’t like it already” – I’ve tried going against that, but it didn’t work out... and I think it is worse now that I’m older - I’m more intolerant.I read something the other day about Clint Eastwood’s new movie (hey, Mark, more imdb links for you!) :). Angelina Jolie is on it, so I won’t even bother - no time to

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Rice Flour Pancakes

A shortage of munitions in the kitchen with a corresponding failure to consider the solution the night before, combined with a desire to produce something for dinner without resorting to pizza delivery or dining out, resulted in a focus on staples.

Pancakes were an obvious choice, especially when you can salvage the last few peppers from the vine along with some vibrant green parsley. A comforting treat any time of day, I adapted this Dosa recipe from Madhur Jaffrey's World Vegetarian to suit my tummy. Delightfully satisfying for breakfast, lunch or dinner, serve with some chutney, such as Fresh Tomato Chutney, or as a bread alongside an Indian meal as a substitute for Naan.

Indian Rice Flour Pancakes

1 cup of unbleached white flour
1 cup of rice flour
1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt
1 cup of yogurt
3/4 cup of water
2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped
2 - 3 jalapenos or hot green chilies, finely chopped
dash of cayenne
dash of ground coriander
dash of cumin
dash of turmeric

peanut oil for frying


Combine the flours, salt and yogurt in a food processor. Add the water and process until you have a smooth batter. Add the remaining ingredients, pulse for a few quick seconds and transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir a few times.

Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium low heat. When hot, pour in roughly 1/3 cup of batter. Swirl it around a bit so you get a roughly 6 - 7 inch pancake. Add another teaspoon or so of oil to the edges of the pan, cover and cook for roughly 6 minutes, or until the bottom of the pancake is reddish brown. Gently flip the pancake and cook, uncovered, for another 5 minutes or so. Transfer the pancake to a plate, cover with foil and repeat the process with the remaining batter.

Makes roughly 8 pancakes.
Other Indian fried savories to be enjoyed:

Chickpea Flour Pancakes with Crushed Peas and Cilantro (Pudla)
Savory Rice and Urad Dal Pancakes (Dosa)
Savoury Mung Dal Pancakes

Tangerine meltaways

You know when something gets stuck on your mind and it’s impossible to let it go? After watching this movie – one of the most beautiful films ever – the soundtrack kept playing in my head for weeks.The same happened when I saw Jen’s lime meltaways - I had to make those. HAD TO. But I was out of limes (and I swear I’d not used them for caipirinhas). :)I did have tangerines, though, so my citrus

Monday, October 27, 2008

Vegetarian Jamaican Patties

Inspired by a recipe I found in Vegetarian Times for Jamaican Tempeh Patties, I reworked the filling and came up with this bean and veggie version that I served to my Dad this past weekend. I never can resist trying out new creations for my esteemed dinner guests.

The result was a spicy mixture of plump kidney beans filled out with shredded carrot and mashed sweet potato enclosed in a spicy pastry. I meant to add peas to the filling and forgot, but I am including them in the recipe because I think they would provide a pleasing contrast and accompaniment to the mixture.

I served these savory turnovers with some leftover Tomato Chutney, but any tomato-based sauce would be good, though no sauce is needed at all.
Vegetarian Jamaican Patties

For the pastry:

3 cups of flour
1 tablespoon of curry powder
3/4 teaspoons of sea salt
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 cup of cold butter
3/4 cup of cold water

For the Filling:

1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 medium shallots, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped
2 - 3 jalapeno peppers, finely chopped
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
1 teaspoon of ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of oregano
1/2 teaspoon of thyme
a pinch of sea salt
1 medium carrot, shredded
1 small sweet potato, boiled and mashed
1 cup of cooked kidney beans
1/3 cup of frozen peas
1/4 cup of dark rum


To make the crust, combine the flour, curry powder, salt and baking powder in a food processor. Add the butter and pulse until the butter is reduced to little pieces. Add the water, and process until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for an hour.

To make the filling:

Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the shallots, and stir and fry until they soften. Add the garlic and jalapenos to the pan, and cook for another minute or so. Toss in the spices, herbs and salt and stir for 30 seconds. Add the carrot, mashed sweet potato, kidney beans, frozen peas and the rum to the pan. Stir and cook for another few minutes.

To complete the patties:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Knead the dough a few times on a floured board. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll out piece of dough into a roughly 6 inch round. Place a heaping tablespoon of the dough in the center of the round, brush the edges with water. Fold the circles in half, pressing the dough together. Crimp the edges with a fork.

Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 20 - 25 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown.

Makes 12 spicy patties.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Fresh Tomato Chutney

This uncooked tomato chutney adapted from Lord Krishna's Cuisine by Yamuna Devi is a refreshing choice to serve alongside fried or baked savories calling out for some extra zip. Much like salsa in texture and flavour, I served this incredibly easy to prepare chutney with Madhur Jaffrey's Indian Rice Flour Pancakes.
Fresh Tomato Chutney

3 medium tomatoes, diced
1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped
2 jalapenos, seeded and cut into thin strips
1 hot green chili, seeded and finely chopped
juice from 1 lime
1 tablespoon of olive oil
dash of cayenne
1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 teaspoon of coriander seeds
2 tablespoons of fresh parsley or coriander, finely chopped


Dry roast the cumin and coriander seeds in a small frying pan until they darken a few shades - roughly a minute or two. Transfer to a mortar and pestle, and coarsely crush.

Combine all the ingredients, including the crushed seeds and gently mix. Let the chutney stand for an hour or two so the flavours blend. Makes roughly 2 cups.
Other chutney's by Ms. Devi you will be sure to enjoy:

Toasted Fresh Coconut and Tomato Chutney
Fresh Coriander Chutney
Coconut and Mint Chutney
Roasted Toor Dal & Coconut Chutney
Cashew Chutney

Friday, October 24, 2008

White chocolate and pecan spice friands for Sugar High Friday



Or, “the poor little friand that stood alone”. Because the friand on the photo was the only one I could remove from the pans – all the other 6 got stuck! :(

I’d just received the book by mail and quickly looked for a recipe calling for spices (because of this month’s Sugar High Friday). I’d been meaning to try friands for ages and thought I’d found a great excuse for that (as if I needed an

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Split Pea Cilantro Dumplings in a Coconut Curry

World Vegetarian Classics by Celia Brooks Brown has become a favorite cookbook of mine. There are over 250 straightforward vegetarian recipes from around the globe, and each one is adapted to the modern kitchen. The instructions are easy to follow, the pictures divine and each chapter begins with a bit of history on each region's vegetarian traditions.

This book has served me well when I wanted a quick but flavourful dinner idea, and also when I wanted something to serve to esteemed dinner guests. Each recipe has a certain elegance, even the most basic dishes, and you simply can't fail to be inspired as you flip through the colourful pages.

Wanting to make a special meal for a dear friend on his birthday, I decided upon these split peas dumplings with a coconut curry sauce. This dish is from Mauritius and the Indian influence on this African island's culinary traditions is very much apparent here. There are a few steps to this recipe, but it is truly a delight to make and well worth the effort when you sit down with your plate to savour the little curry coated pea cakes on a bed of hot rice.
Split Pea Cilantro Dumplings in a Coconut Curry


For the dumplings:

generous 1/2 cup of chana dal or yellow split peas
1 clove of garlic, chopped
1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped
2 - 3 green chilies, chopped
4 tablespoons of unbleached white flour
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
oil for frying

For the Curry:

2 teaspoons of cumin seeds
2 teaspoons of coriander seeds
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped
2 fresh red chilies, chopped
1 teaspoon of turmeric
dash of cayenne pepper
seeds from 4 brown cardamom pods
1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
1 cup of yogurt
2 14-ounce cans of coconut milk
3/4 cup of frozen peas


Soak the chana dal (or yellow split peas) in enough water to cover overnight.

Drain the beans, and transfer to a blender or food processor. Add the garlic, ginger and chili. Add a bit of water, and process until you get a smooth paste. Now add the flour, baking powder, salt and cilantro. Blend until well combined.

Heat a 1/2 inch or so of oil in a frying pan until it is hot, but not smoking. When a small bit of the batter sizzles, you will know it is ready. Drop heaping teaspoons of the batter into the oil and fry until they are golden, taking care to flip them with tongs to ensure they brown evenly. Drain on paper towels. Transfer to a plate and keep them warm in an oven heated to 225 degrees.

For the curry, begin by toasting the cumin and coriander seeds in a dry frying pan over medium heat until they darken a bit. This should take a minute or two. Transfer to a blender or food processor along with the garlic, ginger, red chilies, turmeric, cayenne, cardamom pod seeds, yogurt and salt. Process until smooth. Pour this mixture into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium low and cook for a few minutes to thicken. Now add the coconut milk, bring to a boil, reduce the heat to medium low, cover and cook for about 15 minutes. Add the frozen peas, cook for another few minutes and add the dumplings to the pot.

Serve over a bed of hot rice.

Serves 4.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Apple-Oatmeal Breakfast Streusel Cake

Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.
~ Martin Luther
And knowing that dark and bitter days are soon to follow the autumn season, I would still gather apples and make delicious treats from them … like this warm and fragrant breakfast cake. Neither too light nor too heavy, neither too sweet nor too bland, but just that ideal fall flavour combination of apples, cinnamon and oats.
Apple-oatmeal breakfast streusel cake

Overnight preparation:

1/2 cup rolled or steel-cut oats
1/2 cup whole fat yogurt


Streusel:

1/2 cup rolled or steel-cut oats
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons melted butter


Cake:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
3 large or 4 small tart apples, cut into thin wedges
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of sea salt
1/2 cup whole milk
1 large egg


Stir together the oats and yogurt and let sit at room temperature overnight or at least six hours before cooking.

Preheat the oven to 350° and melt the butter for the streusel in a small saucepan.

Make the streusel by combining the oats, flour, brown sugar and melted butter in a small bowl until crumbly. Set aside.

Cut the butter for the cake into pieces and add to an 8-inch square baking pan. Heat in the oven until melted and remove. Stir in the sugar and cinnamon until well mixed. Stir in the apple slices until well coated with the sugar and cinnamon, and return to the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the apples are softened, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a large bowl. Beat the egg into the milk in a small bowl or cup, and pour into the dry ingredients along with the soaked oat and yogurt mixture. Stir until combined, but don't overmix.

Remove the pan from the oven once the apples are cooked. Using a spatula, spread the batter over the apples to the sides of the pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out just dry.

Serve hot or warm, with ice cream or whipped cream if desired. Serves 4 to 6.

Chocolate shortbread fingers and gifts from Berlin

I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m a clickaholic – every time I read something online I click, and click, then click and click again. I go, link after link, and sometimes I don’t even remember where I started. :)I was listening to Billy Idol’s “Sweet Sixteen” this morning on my way to work – absolutely love that song – and, after googling him, then the song, I ended up here. I did not know

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

No Croutons Required - Hearty Soups

There is a chill in the air and a nostalgia for summer threatens an indulgence in ennui until I remember the comforts that go along with the colder months. Little is more cheering and curing than a bowl of hearty soup. Cuddle up and nourish yourself with October's edition of No Croutons Required. The choice is not easy, but help us crown the October champion by expressing your preference in comments or via email. Please note the host's soups are not eligible for voting.

Johanna of Green Gourmet Giraffe is the early bird this month with this colorful Chinese Soup that she cooked up instead of a stir-fry. In addition to baked tofu and noodles, this slightly spicy, sour soup has a healthy dose of veggies such as chard, mushrooms, carrots, asparagus, peppers and peas. This is a nourishing and filling soup anytime of year and can easy be adapted to the seasons. (Melbourne, Australia)

Our next entry is this unique Pumpkin Chili from Ashley who clearly has mastered the method. Consisting of pumpkin, black beans, kidney beans, peppers, tomatoes, and seasoned with some beer, paprika and poppy seeds, this stunning meal in a bowl is sure to warm even the chilliest autumn soul. Serve with some crusty bread for a real feast. (Binghamton, New York, USA)

From Alexa of Artsy-Foodie we have this substantial Miso soup designed to cure all that might ail you. This comforting soup is made up of white miso, broccoli, carrots, green onions, tofu, rice pasta and further flavored with cilantro, ginger, soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. (Washington, USA)

Holler, my co-host of No Croutons Required, submits this gorgeous Carrot, Spinach and Lentil Soup. This thick and creamy soup made up of shredded carrots, spinach, lentils, onions, garlic and a hint of lime and cayenne, is an elegant autumn meal solution served along with some crusty bread. (Scotland, United Kingdom)

Arundathi submits a hearty and nourishing Mulligatawny Soup consisting of Moong Dal, apple, coconut, carrot and spiced with garam masala, peppercorns, turmeric, and curry leaves. Mulligatawny, literally meaning pepper water, is an anglicized version of Indian Rasam and is enjoyable and satisfying anytime of year. (India)

Shira of Petit Pois offers up an earthy Eastern European Mushroom and Barley Soup that she describes as a rib liner. The goodness of fresh and dried mushrooms are combined with barley, carrot, celery, onion, rosemary and beer. Serve with bread and cheese for a very satisfying cold weather meal. (France)

Val of More Than Burnt Toast gets creative with a Jamie Oliver recipe and comes up with a spicy Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup that she serves in the pumpkin shell! Perhaps even better than pumpkin pie, this delightful blend of pumpkin puree, hot chillies, garlic, ginger, spices, lime, rice and coconut milk is sure to impress dinner guests. (British Columbia, Canada)

No roundup of hearty soups would be complete without a borscht recipe. Sweatha of Tasty Curry Leaf comes up with a Vegetarian Beet Borscht that includes pasta, along with more traditional ingredients such as beets and potatoes. This wholesome soup is seasoned with dill, cashews, spices and lime. (New Jersey, USA)

Pumpkin is a popular choice for warming soups and our next entry is a Creamy Pumpkin Soup from Lubna of Yummy Food. Worthy of being a staple on any Fall menu, this simple but elegant puree of pumpkin chunks, onion, cream, vegetable stock and pepper is a refreshing and warming choice for a cool autumn day. (Bangalore, India)

Priyasuresh of Priya's Easy N Tasty Recipes is up next with this Creamy Cabbage and Barley Soup. A lovely accompaniment to any meal, this blend of cabbage, barley, tomatoes, onion, carrot, and dried basil is not only good for you, but a real tummy warmer. (Paris, France)

From Srivalli of Cooking 4 All Seasons we have another pureed Cabbage Soup. Roasted onions, garlic and cabbage are done in a pressure cooker, grinded together and seasoned with salt and pepper. Srivalli tells us this tasty soup is filling on its own, but suggests serving it with some brown bread which sounds like a fine idea to me. (India)

Mansi of Food and Fun comes up with a rich and creamy Carrot Soup that she was inspired to make after enjoying a bowl at a restaurant. The goodness of carrots are combined with garlic, coconut milk, cloves, lemon juice and whipping cream. A winter warmer indeed! I'll take two bowls please. (California, USA)

Allie of Yum in Tum takes advantage of seasonal produce and comes up with this delightful Pumpkin Ginger Soup. A simple puree of pumpkin, ginger and simple seasonings, this soup is easy and fast to make, meaning you won't have to wait long to linger over a warming bowl. (Houston, Texas, USA)

Tracy of Vanilla Bean Cafe comes up with a curing Spicy Butternut Squash and Apple Soup. Fresh garden squash is here combined with onion, jalapeno pepper, granny smith apples, carrots, whipping cream and temptingly spiced with cumin, nutmeg, cinnamon, cayenne and garnished with fresh parsley. (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)

From Saroja of Kitchen-Kollections we have an immunity boosting Celery Soup. This vegetable soup includes celery, carrots, onion, garlic, corn and tomato. Though it is not required, some croutons were added to this nourishing and warming bowl of goodness. (Farmington, Michigan, USA)

Srimathi of Few Minute Wonders whipped up a batch of Spicy Corn Bell Pepper Soup that was gone in 30 minutes. This comforting and nourishing soup brings together the goodness of corn, red pepper, red onion, tomato, green chilies, cilantro, veggie broth and cream. Serve with bread or lavish roll ups for a very satisfying meal. (San Diego , California, USA)

Mahimaa cooks up a Creamy Vegetable Soup in her Indian Vegetarian Kitchen. Cabbage, onion, garlic, corn and carrots are complimented with some beans and milk. Mahimaa served this healthy, pressure cooked soup with some whole grain garlic bread. You can't go wrong with classic veggie soups like this. (Los Angeles, California, USA)

This Sweet Potato Squash Soup with Pinto Beans and Chard is my contribution this month. A good choice for a mid-week meal, delicata squash adds a pleasant sweetness to this hearty bowl of pinto beans, carrots, garlic, onion, tomato and chard. Good for you and tasty too. (London, Ontario, Canada)

Lysy of Munchkin Mail takes advantage of the autumn harvest and comes up with this delightfully thick Roasted and Toasted Squash and Corn Soup. Roasted squash and toasted corn add an extra burst of flavour, which is complimented by some red pepper and leeks, garlic and onion. A very satisfying choice for a chilly evening meal. (Warwickshire, UK)

Ruth of Once Upon a Feast submits a stunning Hodge Podge Bean Soup that she based on an Adzuki Bean Stew she made previously. Starting with a roasted vegetable broth, Ruth added some chickpeas, navy beans, tomato paste and some chipotle in adobo. Some more broth was added to tone down the heat, and finally some adzuki beans. A spice lovers delight, this will warm you on even the coldest of days. (Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada)

Hanne who posts at Freshly Made comes up with a Spicy Pumpkin Soup for our event. The goodness of pumpkin comes together nicely with red lentils, garlic, hot chilies and coconut milk. This pretty pureed soup is a perfect autumn treat. (Copenhagen, Denmark)

Chow of Chow Vegan makes a Vegetable Chowder that she serves in mini sourdough bread bowls! Not only do you get to enjoy this blend of onion, leek, carrot, red potatoes, soy milk, garlic, and shiitake mushrooms, you get to eat the bowl too. This inspired creation is a good choice if you want to impress dinner guests. (San Francisco Bay Area, USA)

Nina of Miss.Adventure @ Home makes Pasta E Fagioli. This cold weather vegetarian favorite is made using homemade vegetable stock, pasta, black-eyed peas, carrots, celery, zucchini, tomatoes, dried herbs, green beans, swiss chard, lima beans and a bit of Parmesan cheese. This is clearly a feast in a bowl! (Hamilton, Ontario, Canada)

Rita from Pink Bites offers up an exquisite French Onion Soup that is sure to appeal to even the most staunch carnivores. Layered with flavor, Rita's version is made with yellow onions, fresh thyme, garlic, white wine, veggie broth, day old bread and Gruyere cheese. This is sure to warm even the coldest tummy. (Seattle, Washington, USA)

Aparna of My Diverse Kitchen makes a vegetarian version of a popular Portuguese creation named Sopa de Feijao Branca e Legumes (Black Eyed Bean and Vegetable Soup). The veggie power of potatoes, onion, carrots and cabbage meets tomato paste, black eye beans, chili powder and marinara sauce. Serve with dinner rolls for a truly comforting dining experience. (Goa, India)

Divya of Dil Se takes advantage of the abundance of pumpkins and enters the fray with this lovely Pumpkin-Zucchini Spaghetti Soup. Pumpkin, zucchini, spaghetti, and carrot are seasoned with garlic, ginger, chili powder, cumin, dried herbs, red wine vinegar and some fresh parsley. This creamy, elegant soup was served with some breadsticks. (Los Angeles, California, USA)

Rachel of The Crispy Cook comes up with an economically satisfying Autumnal Peasant Soup. This hearty vegetarian pottage brings lentils, celery, carrots, potatoes, cabbage and tomatoes together with onion, garlic and dried herbs. A tasty choice for a frosty autumn evening. (Saratoga County, New York, USA)

From Rupa of A Virtual Vegetarian we have this flavored filled Mexican Pozole Rojo de Jalisco. Made with hominy, a white corn kernel that has been slaked in a lime solution, along with tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, tortillas, ancho chilies, garlic, and cilantro, this colourful soup is garnished with red onion, radish, cabbage, sour cream, tortilla chips and lime. A multiplicity of textures and tastes come together in this most satisfying one bowl meal. (Northern California, USA)

And last, but not least, Kim of Live :: Love :: Laugh :: Eat! submits this tempting Split Pea Soup that is a twist on an old classic. Dried split peas, a chipotle chile in adobo sauce, carrots, broth and miso paste are tossed into a slow cooker. The finished result is garnished with bits of green onion. Easy, tasty and satisfying! (Portsmouth, Virginia, USA)

Holler will be hosting the November Edition of No Croutons Required. Check back at the end of the month for the theme and the winner of this month's hearty soup challenge.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Oat Porridge and Fruit

After an evening meal of rich and greasy foods like the fried Indian pastries I had for takeouts the other night, a wholesome homemade oat porridge with fruit for breakfast feels cleansing and invigorating to the body the next day. If you're still groggy from all the oils and carbohydrates, there's nothing faster or simpler. And with a basket on hand of the plumpest, juiciest apricots I've seen for almost a year, an oat porridge cooked in apple-cranberry juice with diced fresh apricots became irresistible.

By now everyone is familiar with the advice to eat whole grains as part of their daily diet, but many people still don't know how to go about getting them properly. Whole grains are widely marketed these days in all kinds of breads, granolas, cereals and snacks, but unless you're familiar with the actual process used in their productions, you're better off without them. Most commercial whole grain products are baked at too high temperatures — it's quick and efficient for the producers, but these temperatures destroy most of the nutritional content of the foods. Another common problem in modern production processes is the use of rancid grains — the outer layer of the whole grains are especially susceptible to becoming rancid quickly without freezing.

Most importantly, however, the grains used in most commercial processes have not been soaked before being cooked. All grains contain phytic acid in their outer layer, or bran, that when left untreated combine with calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc in the intestinal tract and block their absorption. Soaking grains in warm water or yogurt overnight allows enzymes and lactobacilli to break down the phytic acid so that the mineral benefits of grains are realized. Soaking and fermenting is also crucial for breaking down complex proteins like the gluten found in oats into simpler components that are much more easily digested by the body.

And oats are just about the perfect grain for starting the day with energy, naturally sweet and soothing, and a terrific source of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, fibre and B vitamins. Samuel Johnson once noted that oats are "a grain used in England to feed horses and in Scotland to feed the populace," which might be why there were so many splendid specimens of English horses and Scots. Oatmeal porridge was a staple breakfast food of older Canadians, and it's so quick and easy to make there's no reason why it shouldn't become a staple for a new generation as well.

On the subject of processed foods, I've never understood the need for "quick" or "instant" oats when ordinary rolled or steel-cut oat flakes cook about as fast as it takes to pour a bowl of corn flakes when the oats have been soaked the night before. Like other marketed whole grain products, instant oats are pre-cooked at nutrient-destroying temperatures before they even get to your cupboard, and contain unnecessary preservatives and artificial sweeteners besides. On the other hand, old-fashioned rolled or steel-cut oats are almost as good as using the whole oat groats, because they've only been lightly processed with light steaming and rolling or cutting.

Almost instant oat porridge

For my porridges I employ a variation of the old muesli technique in which I soak the oats in an equal amount of plain whole-fat yogurt and whey overnight at room temperature, and sometimes with a small piece of cinnamon stick tossed in for flavour. One-third cup of dried oats usually makes a good-sized serving for most people. If you find the idea of leaving yogurt overnight at room temperature unappealing, don't worry — it is perfectly safe since the broken-down lactic acid in yogurt prevents harmful bacterial culturation, and brings out the natural tangy flavour of yogurt as an added bonus. Whole grains should always be eaten with good fatty dairy products to provide the catalyst for mineral absorption in any case, and soaking the oats in yogurt is the easiest way to do this.

The next morning, bring an amount of water and/or fruit juice equal to the amount of oats to a light boil. Stir in the soaked oats, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for just a few minutes until thick, stirring constantly to avoid sticking. Just before taking the oats off the stove, add fresh or frozen berries, fruit or raisins, seeds or nuts, and stir in for thirty seconds. Swirl in a bit of maple syrup, raw honey or molasses if you crave a little extra sweetness.

Take the oats off the stove and let cool for just a few minutes before serving.

Parmesan potato bread

Daylight Saving Time started on the weekend here and I’m so sleepy... I love this time of the year – the feeling of longer days, especially on the weekends, is fantastic – but the first week is a tough one. :SA slice of this insanely tender bread – one of Nic’s wonderful recipes – is certainly a great way of starting one’s day, even if the sun hasn't come up yet.The cheese flavor is very subtle,

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Lime Flavored Rice with Split Peas

Rice is a staple in my kitchen, usually served a few times a week to go along with dinner. I enjoy it plain, sometimes with a little butter and a bit of salt, especially if I'm in a rush or preparing a more elaborate entree to go along with it, but I never tire of finding new ways to dress up the blank canvas that is rice.

It just so happens that my new copy of 660 Curries has plenty of tasty alternatives to plain rice to serve alongside you favorite curry dishes. I decided to try this easy recipe for Lime-Flavored Rice with Roasted Yellow Split Peas as the flavours seemed particularly complimentary to the Chickpeas with a Coconut Sauce I planned to make. My dinner guests were not disappointed.

I'm sending this along to Srivalli who is hosting Rice Mela in celebration of rice. The idea is to expand our repertoire of rice dishes.
Lime-Flavored Rice with Roasted Yellow Split Peas

1 cup of basmati rice
2 tablespoons of sesame oil
1 1/2 teaspoons of black mustard seeds
1/4 cup of yellow split peas, well rinsed
2 - 3 dried red chilies
1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt
juice from 1 lime
1 teaspoon of turmeric
handful of dried curry leaves
2 fresh cayenne or 3 green chilies, seeded and cut into thin strips


Rinse the rice in a fine strainer. Transfer to a bowl, fill with water, swish around, drain, and repeat until the water is clear and no longer cloudy. Drain, cover with water and soak for at least 20 minutes. Drain and air dry for 15 minutes.

Soak the split peas in boiling water for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds, stirring occasionally until they turn grey and begin to sputter and pop. Add the split peas and dried chilies and stir and fry until the split peas turn a reddish brown colour.

Now add the drained rice, stir and cover with 1 2/3 cups of water. Add the salt. Bring to a boil, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover and cook for 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from the heat and let stand for 5 - 10 minutes.

Combine the lime juice, turmeric, curry leaves and fresh chilies in a small bowl. Fluff the rice with a fork, pour in the lime juice mixture, stir with a fork until well combined.

Serves 4.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Chocolate marshmallows



My friend and I went to the movies last night to watch “Nights in Rodanthe” and we both got out of the theater even more in love with Richard Gere then we already were. :)

Part of the movie takes place in a beautiful beach, with a house surrounded by balconies. I can easily picture myself there, with a cup of hot chocolate and these marshmallows. Talk about a great way of spending a cold

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Sweet Potato Squash Soup with Pinto Beans and Chard

"Mid-week meals" are what I like to call those quick and easy recipes I use to cope with weekday hustle and bustle at a minimum of bother but with an abundance of taste and nutrition at the same time. This colourful soup is packed with the comfort, goodness and flavours of fall harvest vegetables and takes hardly any time or effort to prepare and cook, especially if you boil the beans ahead of time. Served with a grain or fresh bread on the side, it's a complete wholesome and satisfying meal that will look lovely on the table besides … which makes it a natural choice for my contribution to this month's No Crouton Required challenge of hearty vegetarian soups.

You can use any small to medium size winter squash in this soup, but the long, narrow yellow-and-green sweet potato squash — also known as delicata squash — adds a gentle sweetness that blends especially nicely with the garlic and chilies in this soup. Easy to peel and seed, and with very little loose flesh to scoop out, sweet potato squash is also a delight to work with … definitely a squash to look out for.

Adapted from a recipe in Eating Well magazine.
Sweet potato squash soup with pinto beans and chard

1 cup dried pinto beans
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
1/2 teaspoon crushed dried chilies
3 cups vegetable stock
3 cups water
1 sweet potato squash, peeled, seeded and cubed
1 tomato, chopped
1 pound green chard, stemmed and coarsely chopped
1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
fresh ground black pepper


Rinse the pinto beans and soak overnight covered in several inches of cold water with a little yogurt whey or lemon juice added. Drain after soaking, and cover with several inches of fresh cold water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the beans are tender. Drain and set aside.

Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the olive oil, wait a few moments, then swirl around to coat the pan. Toss in the onion, carrots, garlic and crushed dried chilies, and sauté until the vegetables start to brown, about 6 or 7 minutes.

Add the vegetable stock, water, sweet potato squash and tomato. Raise the heat slightly and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer until the squash is soft, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and, using a hand blender, gently purée some of the soup to produce a light creamy broth (alternately, blend a cup of the soup in a blender a return to the pan).

Return the saucepan to the heat and stir in the beans and chard. Cover and simmer until the chard is wilted, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and plenty of fresh ground black pepper.

Serve hot in bowls. Serves 8.