THE USEFUL TORTILLA

After college, a friend of mine, also a child of the Jersey Shore, took a job in Oklahoma, moaning as she left that it was so far from the sea and seafood. Decades later she returned to New Jersey, addicted to Tex-Mex food. I was an easy convert, but though I’ve included a few taco, fajita and enchilada recipes in my posts, I never felt knowledgeable enough to discuss the cuisine. 

I still don’t but during the past year I’ve learned a few things about the ‘street food’ category of it, I think worth sharing. Remote working has put an increased demand on the home kitchen, especially around lunchtime which often spills into dinner. In this situation the tortilla can become a super-hero, crossing cultures.

They’re great time and money savers when frequent shopping is less convenient. A pack of tortillas stores in less space and lasts longer than a loaf of fresh bread, making for easier pick-up meal planning and are useful additions to the pantry in other ways. Cut in wedges, sprayed with cooking oil sprinkled with lemon pepper or salt and pepper and paprika, baked at 325 degrees for about 8 min, they’re wonderful substitutes for crackers when serving dips, or just eaten as snacks. Of course the flour ones replace bread in sandwich wraps. You can also make your own taco shells by microwaving the corn tortillas, covered for 1 min, to soften them, then draping them over the wires of the oven shelf, and baking them as above. Or create a dessert by cutting them in wedges, sprinkling them with cinnamon and sugar, baking them, as above, dusting them with powdered sugar, and layering them at angles, drizzled with honey.

I’ve found lots of different uses for this ‘Mexican Sandwich Bread’.  For example, I spit  a hot dog, lay the halves on a tortilla, add the ‘fixens’, roll and microwave for 1-2 min.—Better than a bun. Other sandwich fillers can be similarly served, especially cheese combos-try cream cheese and jelly for a quick sweet treat or even a dessert. 

But the real value has been in presenting leftovers in appetizing ways and/or stretching the supplies on hand. Leftover chicken or meat? Slice in strips, add sliced fresh peppers and onions, or use frozen, and sauté, or microwave, in a little oil. Serve hot, with warmed tortillas and a selection of all/choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, salsa, mashed avocado and lettuce. Or roll meat and roasted vegetables in a tortilla, place in a pan with a little salsa, pour more over, top with cheese and bake. 

The beauty of these solutions is that the ingredients are always changing and the combinations always new. It doesn’t hurt that they are ready in minutes either.  That’s O.K. though because Tex-Mex is new and innovative itself. In fact, it’s claimed the ‘Fajita’ was just introduced in 1971.

However, for anyone not familiar with Tex-Mex, here are some basic tips and recipes. These are far easier than the ones in food magazines and they’re good practice, until you’re ready to begin to create your own. So I haven’t included any dishes like burritos or quesadillas that require additional frying, simply two enchilada recipes which are simply baked. There’s no reason to stick to the Tex-Mex theme either- for example a Ruben Taco or burrito would be fun and taste great.

RECIPES
There are two types of tortillas, the ancient Aztec made from corn meal and the more modern ones made from wheat flour. The corn ones have more flavor and texture, but break easily are smaller and used for recipes requiring less filling. The best way to work with them is dampened, usually with sauce. The larger flour tortillas bend easily, are sturdier and hold more fillings, but require shortening. Both should be warmed before serving, corn over the stove or a fire, flour in the microwave or oven. Uses are: Corn:  Tacos, tostadas, taquitos, enchiladas, chips
Flour: Tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, burritos, flautas, chips
These recipes illustrate types of fillings which can be used in different tortilla dishes. Burritos and quesadillas, while cooked differently use similar fillings. So do fajitas and taquitos. Tacos and Enchiladas, as you see, can swing either way. So remember the textural distinctions when devising your own creations. Tip-scrambled eggs are a favorite quick filling for any presentation.

Basic Beef Taco: Serves 4

1 lb. ground beef or chicken, pork, turkey
1 large garlic clove-minced
1 tsp. EACH dried oregano and cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 Tbs. EACH chili powder and flour
½ cup broth
Saute beef, garlic and seasonings in a non-stick pan until no longer pink.  Add the remaining ingredients and cook, stirring until thickened, about 5 min. Serve in taco shells.
NOTE: This beef mixture can be used in burritos and quesadillas.

Fish Tacos: Serves 4
1 lb. meaty fish-shark, marlin, swordfish, tuna
1 clove minced garlic
2 medium limes-1 sliced, 1 in wedges
¼ cup oil
1/8 cup minced cilantro
Salt and pepper
2 small tomatoes-diced
1/8 cup minced cilantro
1/8 cup diced onion

1 jalapeno pepper-diced
2 Tbs. orange juice
¼ cup EACH mayonnaise and plain yogurt
1 ½ cups shredded Jack or cheddar cheese
1 ½ cups shredded cabbage
8 corn tortillas
Marinate fish in next 5 ingredients for 30 min. turning occasionally. Remove, plate and garnish with lime slices and a sprig of cilantro. Cover with plastic wrap and chill at least 2 hr. Combine next 5 ingredients and allow flavors to meld making salsa. Stir together mayo and yogurt for sauce and chill until ready to cook fish. Broil or grill fish 10 min. per inch of thickness, turning once. Cut into ‘finger’ slices and place in warmed tortillas. Top with cheese, salsa, cabbage and mayo mix. Serve with lime wedges.

Classic Fajitas: Serves 4- From Dinners With Joy by Joy Wielland

2 cooked, boneless, skinless chicken breasts OR 12 oz. beef for stir fry (see chart) cut in 2 inch strips     

1 red bell pepper julienne

1 green bell pepper julienne

2 medium onions halved and sliced thin

3 Tbs. cooking oil

1tsp coriander

1tsp cumin

Salt and pepper 

(8) 8” flour tortillas

(1) 8 oz. jar salsa

(1) 8 oz. container guacamole

1 cup sour cream

(1) 8 oz. pkg. “Mexican 4 Cheese Blend” – or shredded “Monterey Jack”              

Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat.. Add onions peppers and spices, and if using, chicken. Cook about 8 min., until the chicken is done and its juices run clear, and the vegetables are crisp tender. If using beef, cook vegetables about 4 min and add beef the last 4 or 5 min, so that it browns but stays tender. 

Meanwhile, cover tortillas with a dish towel, place on a plate and warm in the microwave on high at least 1min—test to make sure they’re warmed through..

Place the toppings – salsa, guacamole, sour cream and cheese on the dining table. Add the warn tortillas, and bring the sizzling meat mixture to the table in the skillet—making sure that it’s on a board or trivet—and let everyone dig in.

NOTE: To eat a fajita—Lay a tortilla flat on your plate, and spoon the meat mixture in a line across the center of the tortilla parallel to you, leaving a 2inch margin on each end. The julienne cuts make this easy. Put on the toppings of your choice—I like them all—and fold those short sides over the filling squaring them off. Then roll the first long side, the one near you, over the filling, then roll the whole thing over on the other side to make a compact  bundle—–and enjoy ! ! !

Tortilla Strata Burger: Serves 4 for lunch-double recipe to serve 4 for dinner- From Dinners With Joy by Joy Wielland

8 oz. hamburger

¼ tsp ground cumin

(1) 16 oz. jar garden style salsa – level of spiciness optional – you’ll use a little over half

(6) 6 inch whole wheat tortillas

½ cup sour cream

(1) 15 ½ oz. can black beans rinsed and well drained

(1) 4oz can green chilies

2 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro

8oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Non-stick cooking spray

Brown the beef in a skillet coated with non stick spray, allow to cool, and mix with the cumin. Spread 2 Tbs. of the salsa in the bottom of the casserole. Top with a tortilla then begin the layering with 2 Tbs. of salsa, 1/6^th of the sour cream, then 1/6^th each of the beans, beef, peppers, cilantro and cheese. Top with a tortilla and repeat the layering again starting with the salsa and ending with the cheese until all the ingredients are used, pressing down gently on each tortilla to keep the stack level. End with a tortilla.** Can be made a day ahead at this point, cover and refrigerate, then allow to warn a bit before baking. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake for 15-20 min., until cheese melts and salsa bubbles. 

NOTE: This dish does tend to lean a bit. One way to keep it straight is to put a bamboo skewer down through the center before baking. I once saw a friend make the skewer into a decoration by putting a cherry tomato on it before serving. A healthy, fun burger for the family to share but if serving 4 for dinner, the recipe

Enchiladas: Serves 4 -From Dinners With Joy by Joy Wielland

(8) 8 inch flour or corn tortillas

8 oz Ricotta cheese

(1) 4oz can green chilies

½ lb. ground turkey or beef or 1 cup sliced, cooked chicken, leftovers or from the Deli

6 scallions chopped

½ cup chopped green bell pepper- use remainder from Recipe # 4

1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack Cheese

½ tsp. red pepper

Cooking spray

½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

(1) 20 oz jar of salsa

If using raw, ground meat, spray a skillet with the cooking spray and sauté the meat over

medium heat until no longer pink. If using the chicken, cut it in thin strips about 2 inches

x1 inch. In a bowl, stir to combine, Ricotta, scallions, ¾ of the green chilies (Add the rest

to the salsa), the green pepper, the red pepper, ½ cup of the Monterey Jack cheese and the

meat. Spread half the salsa in the bottom of a 12 x 8 inch ovenproof pan. If using corn

tortillas, wrap them in plastic wrap and microwave for 1 min., or until pliable. This step is

not necessary with flour ones. Dip the tortillas in the salsa in the pan to soften them to the

point that they can be rolled. Spoon the filling down the center of the tortillas in equal

amounts, about 3 Tbs. per tortilla and roll it up. Place the rolled tortillas, seam side down,

on the salsa in the pan. Pour the rest of the salsa over them, and top with the rest of the

Monterey Jack cheese and half the cilantro. Cover and bake in a preheated 350 degree

oven 20 min. Uncover and bake 10 min more. Serve from the pan, and pass the rest of the

fresh cilantro to garnish.

Vegetarian Enchiladas: Serves 4
1 Tbs. butter
¼ lb. mushrooms
½ cup EACH corn, diced sweet potatoes and diced onions
¼ diced bell pepper
1 zucchini –diced
½ tsp. cumin
1/8 tsp. EACH garlic powder and dried oregano
½ cup tortilla chips-crushed
5 oz. grated cheese
3 Tbs. minced cilantro
Salt and pepper
3 cups tomato sauce
8 corn tortillas

Saute onions in butter until browning, add remaining vegetables and seasonings. Cook vegetables to crisp-tender, cool then add 2 Tbs. cilantro, chips, most of the cheese and correct seasoning. To prepare tortillas see directions in above recipe. Slightly warm tomato sauce and smear ¼ cup in bottom of a baking pan which will comfortably hold the enchiladas. Dip on side of each tortilla in the sauce, place sauced side up on a plate add ¼ cup oc the filling, roll up and lay in baking dish. When dish is filled, spoon over remaining sauce and top with reserved cheese and cilantro. Bake 30 min. in  350 deg oven until bubbling. Optionally  garnish with sour cream.
NOTE: This dish can be made in smaller pans, foil covered, frozen, thawed and baked at a later date.

FOOD FACTS FOR MILLENNIALS

Now, well into our second year of social distancing, but with relaxing restrictions, it’s wonderful to think about gathering again for those occasions associated with spring, which mean so much, graduations, weddings, even Memorial Day. However, chances are we will still have to cope with limitations and for some family and friends, unsure how far to plan ahead, digital gifting is the best option.

The simplest digital gift is a book. A book is always a great gift, because it’s personalized without being personal, and digital is a great substitute for a material gift whether or not it’s presented in person. Food Facts for Millennials is a perfect gift selection for those planning to start out on their own.

For the graduate, newlywed or anyone opening a new page and setting up housekeeping, organizing the kitchen and food supply can be a problem with a major time impact on a busy schedule. The supermarket can be a scary place, wondering what to choose, how to use it, how much to buy, which brand is the right one for you and the prospect of ‘register shock’ or worse budget deficit looming over your head. This book will help you calculate your needs before you start to market, and go with you on your cell to answer your questions while shopping. It makes food preparation in general, easier and fun for both newbies and old hands.

Even though I had years of experience in managing a home, I was terrified when I opened my chef service. I had to satisfy my clients, virtual strangers, to make my business work. The largest group of customers seeking a chef service consists of working parents who want to maintain a traditional lifestyle. The second largest are people dealing with special diets due to allergies or medical restrictions. My first few clients were in the second group.

Having relatives with regimented diets, I knew the chief ‘red flags’ are easily isolated and examined in the baking category, dairy products, sugar and recently flour, so I began making notes on substitutions, new items from ethnic cuisines and product options for reference. When my paper pad became bothersome to carry, I switched to digital notes. Showing them to a friend, her newlywed daughter asked for a copy, which led to Baking Basics and Options, and then she added a request, with prices rising, for a book on meats to find optional cuts. That resulted in books on poultry and seafood.

One day at the gym, I heard a woman explaining a new low-carb diet which banned all white foods, including onions, because they are high in carbohydrates. I realized that poor carbs were still getting a ‘dirty rap’ and wrote another book explaining that carbs are the body’s fuel and all foods have them, with the exception of oils and some shellfish. It’s understanding that there are two types of carbohydrates, simple and complex, which function differently, that separates the ‘good carbs’ from the ‘bad’ ones and should determine our choice in consuming them.

By now I had five books on my web site and Kindle, and it seemed natural to write a sixth on sauces and gravies, tying them all together as they do foods on a plate, especially with the current popularity of pan sauces and/or gravies. First, there is a difference between the two. Second, like carbs, there is a general misunderstanding about them. They do not all have a high fat content, that depends on the base and the ingredients used. A ROUX base begins with melted butter, and then the thickening agent and liquid are added. A SLURRY base consists of the thickening agent dissolved in a bit of fluid, then stirred into the main liquid, which could be a skimmed broth or juice. The book also examines the five Mother sauces of classic French cuisine and the derivation of their ‘offspring’ for three generations as well as listing the different grades of sauces, gravies and soups.

Although the six books are available separately on the site’s Bookshelf and Kindle, I decided they would be more convenient for quick reference gathered in one volume. I called the book Food Facts for Millennials, obviously because it’s about food facts and for Millennials partly because they are the ones now starting out on their own and partly because they are true ‘foodies’. They want high quality, fresh ingredients and are willing to pay more for less to have them. They’re interested in exploring different cuisines, creating new taste experiences and maintaining nutritional balance.

However, the book is a handy reference guide even for us old hands in the kitchen, who need to check facts now and then. It’s even available in mobi, so you can take it to market with you on your phone.

Here is a list of the six digital books, with a summary of the contents of each and prices as listed on this blog and kindle.

1) BAKING BASICS AND OPTIONS

Have you ever been confronted by a baking recipe and wondered which product to choose? Ever needed to cook for people with allergies to gluten, wheat, eggs or perhaps are diabetic or have another medical condition? Maybe you wanted to bake something to please a guest from another culture, or just felt like trying a recipe from another cuisine. This book answers any questions about regular ingredients used in baking, helps you understand unfamiliar ones and choose the right options if necessary. It also offers various uses for different ingredients and suggests ways to use the remainder of any exotic ones you may buy for a special purpose before expiration. ($2.99)

2) THE POULTRY PLACE

This book discusses modern changes in breeding methods; why we’re assured of tender birds and the “stewing” chicken and capon are obsolete. It explains the differences in terms between generic, brand-name birds as found in the supermarket, free-range and organically raised. There is complete information ion Salmonella and how to avoid it. This advice extends to a section on the safe handling and use of eggs, and another section on reasons to clean and brine all poultry. There are detailed instructions on preparing all types of birds for cooking. Listed are descriptions of all domestic fowl and the most universal of game birds, along with several recipes for each. Also included are time and temperature charts for general knowledge and detailed instructions for carving and serving each type of bird. Nothing is left to chance. ($3.99)

3) SAVVY SAUCES and GRAVIES

This book is a “Cliff Notes” on sauces and gravies. It starts by defining the differences between the two and goes on to explain the various ways to thicken them for serving, examining the different ingredients that can be used and giving recipes and directions to do so . It describes the different types of gravy and gives directions on how to make each from scratch as well as shortcuts. Outlined are ALL the different types of sauces and their uses from salads to meats to desserts and gives step-by-step advice on how to make and use each. Special attention is given to the 5 Classic French “Mother” sauces—the ones found on menus not in packages. Each is described in detail and instructions given for making and using them, as well as for the many varied second and third generation sauces they inspire.

As the way sauces evolve is explained, it becomes clear they can be adapted to fit dietary requirements, be they medical, religious or cosmetic. This leads to explaining how simple it is to create shortcuts for the inexperienced or rushed as well as how easy it is to individualize them. Recipes illustrating the different types and applications of sauces are included along the way and tips to DIY sauces at will. ($3.99)

4) HOW TO CONTROL CARBOHYDRATES – SO THEY DON’T GO TO WAIST

Take the “Black Hat” off carbohydrates and learn how to use them to your advantage. In this book you will learn the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates, how each works and why complex ones are so important to a healthy diet. You will see that it’s virtually impossible to cut carbs out of your diet completely, because they exist to some degree in almost all foods. The trick in avoiding the damage they can do to your waistline is in knowing which ones, and how many you need daily. The major source groups are explained in detail and broken down into types as are the “hidden” groups so often overlooked. It’s important to know which is which and how to combine them to your advantage. For example, a baked potato with sour cream constitutes a balanced meal, do you know why? There are cooking tips and some suggestions for uses and recipes included as well. ($2.99)

5) ALL ABOUT SEAFOOD

As seafood becomes increasingly valued as a healthy food source, and thanks to the growth of aqua farming and improved transport, ever more varieties are available to and being consumed by an increasing number of people. Questions naturally arise concerning the buying, prepping, storing and cooking of the different types of seafood and actually as to the types and classifications of the items themselves. This book addresses many of those questions by explaining the general rules for safe handling fish and other forms of seafood; cleaning, skinning, shelling or shucking; proper storage until cooking. There are definitions of each classification of seafood in general and descriptions of the members of each category and specifically of the species within each one listed. There are guidelines as to proportions to buy and suggestions as to substitutions within species. Included is also a section on the serving of canned fish. ($2.99)

6) THE MEAT STOP

Years ago the family neighborhood butcher knew the customers’ preferences and often anticipated their needs. Now we’re on our own and have to be a lot better informed as to what we’re buying in every way. Anyone who has peered into the supermarket meat counters realize there are decisions to be made over and above which meat to choose. We have to know the cut or cuts to use for the dishes we plan, how to pick the right one and which is the best buy. We need to judge color, grain, fat dispersion, often bone mass and general appearance. Moreover, we have to know what to substitute if we can’t find what we want. For this we have to know how to prepare and cook different cuts, even different meats. This book contains charts on beef, pork, lamb and veal advising which cuts are more tender, which are tougher, which are fattier and why. Then there are additional charts telling how to cook, carve and serve them. The book is a great guide to learning about meats and a great kitchen aid. ($3.99)

FOOD FACTS FOR MILLENNIALS – The collection ($ 17.94) in both epub and mobi.
A collection of all 6 books for handy reference.

DIPS FOR SPRING 2021

Of the spring holidays in the U.S. only Easter and Passover are internationally observed. The others are national and of relatively recent origin, mid 19th and 20th century. Unburdened by traditions, we’re free to personalize those celebrations, make them as casual or low-key as we please. With the weather improving each week as summer nears, that often results in gatherings being held or shifting outdoors. This is especially true as we emerge from social distancing restrictions. For over a year, we’ve been conditioned to feel safer outside.
Casual parties and small family get-togethers are accepting of impromptu moves and they should be anticipated when planning the food for these gatherings. Easily served, temperature stable dishes are a good solution. It’s even better if the recipes are simple and the ingredients pantry accessible but it’s the very best if any leftovers can be used in other ways.
Enter the dip, spread, pate, by any name this form of appetizer is the answer to the menu problem for smaller spring parties. Depending on their base, they can stand heat for hours, be made from stocked pantry supplies in desired quantity as needed and later serve as either the flavoring condiment or filling in sandwiches. Moreover, there’s such variation in the recipes, that several can be served at the same affair and not seem boring.
Though dips are communally presented, the proper sized and type dipper is especially important now to maintain social distancing precautions. The proper one-bite sized dipper not just discourages double-dipping, but prevents it. Presenting the dip with a spoon or spreading knife also prevents cross-contamination. Such simple options are real safety measures.
The following recipes fill all the requirements. The first two are bean based, the second two vegetable. Then there’s a selection of cheese based recipes that are heat tolerant and contain no ingredients which cause them to spoil. Finally, there are two cooked dips which, obviously aren’t affected by the temperature. So welcome spring with good taste.
After the recipes, I’ve added some recommendations for dippers. Aside from having a potato chip break off in the dip, nothing irks me more than to sample a dip and be left with a large piece of dipper. Double dipping isn’t an option, especially now. I don’t need the extra carbs of an oversized chip and I usually discard it somewhere. If I’m the hostess, I realize that half my dipper supply ends up in the trash. In addition to selecting one-bite sized dippers and providing spreaders, even a butter knife with the dip, there are other simple solutions needing only a bit of effort because the answer is providing smaller dippers. See them after the recipes.
RECIPES
Bean Based Dips: The best known of these is garbanzo based Hummus. The recipe is all over the web, and the product is available in every market, both ready in tubs and in mixes. So I’ll only add a few tips on making the commercial appear home-made. To10-12oz. of dip, add ¼ cup chopped mint leaves and a few drops fresh lemon juice to taste. Stir in don’t blend. It’s the contrast in tastes that is interesting.
Cannellini Bean Dip: serves 4-6 From Three and Four ingredients by Jenny White and Joanna Farrow
(2) 14 oz. cans cannellini beans rinsed and well drained
2 oz. grated cheddar cheese
2 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley
3 Tbs. olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Blend beans into a chunky paste. Stir in the other ingredients and chill well. Serve with a swirl of oil on top and fresh parsley.
Buttered Nut and Lentil Dip: Serves 4-6-From Practical Party Food by Parragon Publishing
4 Tbs. butter
½ cup dried lentils
1 small onion chopped
1 ¼ cups vegetable broth
¾ cups blanched almonds
½ cup pine nuts
½ tsp. EACH cumin, coriander and ginger
1 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro- for garnish
Sauté the nuts in ½ the butter until golden remove from pan and set aside. Saute the onion in the rest of the butter until golden, add the broth and lentils and bring to a boil, then lower heat and cook for about 30 min. until beans are soft. Blend beans, onion, broth, nuts and spices until smooth. Chill and serve garnished with cilantro.
Vegetable Based:
Artichoke and Cumin Dip: serves 4-6- From Three and Four ingredients by Jenny White and Joanna Farrow
(2) 14 oz. cans artichoke hearts-drained
2 garlic cloves
½ tsp. cumin
Olive oil as needed
Salt and pepper
Blend all ingredients with enough oil to make a smooth consistency. Serve chilled
Smoked Fish and Potato Dip: Serves 4—From Quick and Easy by Parragon Publishing
1 lb. starchy potatoes-peeled boiled and mashed
10-12 oz. smoked fish- skinned and boned, flesh flaked-see note*
3 oz. white grapes-microwaved, covered for 1 min.in 1 Tbs. water then drained
2 Tbs. EACH sour cream and lemon juice
1 Tbs. EACH capers, chopped dill pickle and chopped fresh dill OR1/2 tsp. dried +to garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Blend the flaked fish meat and potatoes until smooth, add the sour cream, lemon juice and grapes and pulse to incorporate. Stir in the other ingredients. Chill for 2 hrs. to meld flavor.
*Whiting or Mackerel available whole in the Deli counter of most supermarkets.
Cheese Based
Sundried Tomato Pate: Serves 6-8—From Tea Time Journeys by Gail Greco
½ cup oil packed sundried tomatoes-drained, save oil for another use.
8 oz. cream cheese
¼ cup butter
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¼ cup butter
¼ tsp. EACH dried oregano and basil
½ tsp. rosemary
Blend everything until smooth. Chill at least 6 hrs. before serving.
Marinated Feta with Lemon and Oregano: Serves 4-6- From Three and Four ingredients by Jenny White and Joanna Farrow
7 oz. Greek feta cheese
¼ cup oregano leaves
1 lemon in wedges
1cup extra virgin olive oil
Drain and dry the feta and cut it in chunks. Marinate in the oil, oregano and lemon wedges covered and chilled for at least 4 hrs. (the longer the better.)
Basic Dips: Each serves 8-10
To 8 oz. cream cheese, 12 oz. sour cream, salt and pepper add:
1) 2 Tbs. dill and 1Tbs. grated onion
2) 1 ½ oz. onion soup mix and 2 Tbs. chopped chives
3) 6 oz. salsa and ¼ cup EACH chopped cilantro and chopped black olives
4) 1 mashed garlic clove, 3 scallions-white part only-sliced thin and 3 Tbs. finely chopped mixed, fresh herbs
For each recipe, blend ingredients and chill well to let flavors meld before serving.
Cooked Dips
Caponata: Serves 8-10-From the Everything low-Carb Cookbook by Patricia M. Butkus
½ cup olive oil
6 medium zucchini in ½ inch slices
1 red bell pepper in medium dice
6 cloves chopped garlic
2 cups diced tomatoes
½ cup tomato paste
¼ cup capers-drained
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
½ cup chopped toasted walnuts
Salt and pepper to taste
Saute the zucchini in the oil until golden on both sides about 5min. over medium heat. Add the other ingredients, except the nuts, and simmer for 15 min. stirring often to prevent sticking. Season to taste and chill covered in a glass or ceramic container overnight. Serve at room temperature garnished with the nuts.
Chorizo and Garbanzo Tapas: Serves 4-6 –From Special Occasions by Parragon Publishing
9 oz. chorizo sausage
½ cup olive oil
(1) 14 oz. can garbanzo beans rinsed and drained
Salt and pepper
Fresh oregano to garnish
Whisk 6 Tbs. of oil. salt, pepper and the vinegar to taste in a non-metal bowl. Cut the sausage in ¼ inch slices and cut the slices crosswise. Sauté the onion in 2 tbs. oil until soft, add the sausage and cook 3 min. more until done. Drain on towels and stir into the marinade with the beans. Allow to cool completely, and chill, covered if not serving at once. Serve at room temperature garnished with oregano.
Dipper Ideas:
1) Roll slices of packaged bread, whichever kind compliments the dip it accompanies, very thin and cut in 4 pieces-triangles, squares or slices. Toast on both sides in the oven and allow to sit out to dry and crisp before serving.
2) Spread an 8 inch tortilla, corn or flour lightly with oil and sprinkle with seasoning or herb of choice. Cut a 4 inch circle out of the center and divide into wedges. Cut the outside rings in 1 inch intervals. Bake in a 350 deg. oven for 10 min. or until dry and crisp. Cool completely.
3) Do the same with pitas, opening each into 2 rounds and dividing each round into 8 wedges
4) Buy grissini, the very thin bread sticks. They snap into 2 inch pieces cleanly and appear a culinary choice rather than an economy measure.
5) Make your own bread sticks. Buy frozen bread dough. You probably won’t need more than 1 loaf per event but working with 1 loaf at a time, divide it in 3 and roll each piece in a 16 inch rope. Cover and allow to rise. Cut that into 1 inch segments and roll each to 6 inches. Lightly brush it with oil, milk or egg white and roll in seeds or sprinkle with kosher salt. Divide into (3) 2 inch pieces and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. When all are done, bake at 450 deg. for15 min. until crisp and golden.
6) Bite sized cut vegetables are always an option, especially in spring. In addition to the usual selection, try pieces of bell pepper, zucchini or beet slices, scallion cuts, blanched snow peas, or pieces of fruit or berries on toothpicks-grapes are good. (Have a saucer for used toothpicks handy.)
Store all of these items in an air tight container.

EARLY SPRING VEGETABLES

Last week, I discussed our natural preference for lighter foods as spring arrives. One of the first things we look forward to are fresh vegetables but Nature doesn’t always run by our calendar. If winter lingers or more often if the holidays fall early, fresh produce isn’t available for special menus. That used to be a problem but, now, with air transport and flash freezing, most vegetables are in stores all year. Perhaps they’re not as young and tender as locally grown, but the taste and spirit of the season is still conveyed.

Over the years I’ve written many posts on different aspects and varieties of spring vegetables. You can check them out at these links  April 12, 2012,    April 19, 2013, April 21, 2014, May 17, 2014, April 9, 2015,  April 23, 2015,    March 31, 2016, April 6, 2016 , April 20, 2017,  March 15, 2018,   April 2, 2020 and  March 11,2021. 

Two tips on dealing with fresh or frozen vegetables at any season; first, they can always be made a bit special by preparing them in 2 quick ways. One to glaze them; boil or steam them to crisp tender, then sauté them with butter (about 1 Tbs. per pound) and appropriate seasonings until well coated and shiny. See carrots below. Two: braise them by immersing them in a flavored liquid, covering the dish and slow baking until vegetables are tender. See leeks below.

Second tip: adding herbs is the easiest way to flavor vegetables, especially in spring when herbs sre themselves, a new spring growth.

This year because the holidays run concurrently, I’m hoping the markets will be filled with lots of fresh choices, but in case the weather doesn’t cooperate, I’m going to focus on 12 cooked side dish and 1 salad recipe for 9 standby vegetables which will always deliver the desired effect in presentation and taste for spring meals. 

RECIPES

Asparagus
Break off the woody part of the stems and put the spears in a microwave proof dish in one layer, if possible, no more than two, or cook in batches. Microwave on high 3 to 9 min. depending on the thickness of the stems. If marinating, put drained spears on a serving plate, pour marinade over and allow to infuse as the asparagus cools, then refrigerate or serve. If saucing, shock spears with cold water, chill them and sauce before serving or sauce and serve hot.
For Marinating: A vinaigrette of choice is best
For Saucing: A plain white sauce is good or optionally for 4 servings combine

1 cup cooled cooking water

1 Tbs. cornstarch

Lemon pepper to taste

Dissolve the cornstarch in the liquid and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened. Add seasoning to taste. For a richer sauce, add 1 beaten egg yolk to the cooled sauce and reheat, over low, stirring constantly until sauce is quite thick. Check to adjust seasoning.
Garnishes: Asparagus loves to be decorated and will accept many things: sliced or chopped roasted or fresh peppers, chopped eggs, toasted chopped nuts and seeds, anchovies, capers, herbs crumbled bacon, even breadcrumbs.

Thyme Baked Carrots: Serves 4 
1 lb. carrots-small regular carrots are best for this-peeled, julienned (¼ x 3 inches)
1 cup chicken or beef stock
2 Tbs. chopped fresh thyme-parsley, marjoram or sage will also due
2 Tbs. butter
Place the vegetables in a shallow baking dish, pour the stock over, season, scatter the thyme on top and dot with butter. Bake at 350 deg. for 35-40 min. until stock is absorbed and carrots are tender. Serve warm.

Orange Glazed Carrots: Serves 6- from 500 3-Ingredient Recipes by Robert and Carol Hildebrand
1 lb. baby carrots-cleaned and sliced on an angle
2 Tbs. butter
2 oranges
½  tsp. nutmeg
Boil carrots 7-9 min. until crisp tender, drain. Zest one orange and squeeze both. Place the juice, butter, zest and nutmeg in a skillet. When butter melts, add the carrots and sauté with rest of the ingredients over low heat, stirring gently for about 2-4 min. until glazed. If making ahead, reheat gently in the microwave and garnish with parsley.

Braised Leeks: Serves 6
Leeks are prone to retain soil. To clean cut to within 1 inch of the white part, soak well and hold under running water. If some dirt is still visible, cut them in half lengthwise.
6-8 Leeks-cleaned
1 cup + chicken broth
6 Tbs. Butter
Salt
Steam the leeks in a covered pot with the broth and salt to taste until tender. Drain and melt the butter in a pan, add the leeks and cook over medium heat, turning often, until lightly colored. Check salt and serve hot with butter pored over. Garnish with parsley or dill.

Braised Fennel: Serves 6
Simply replace the leeks in the above recipe with 3-4 trimmed fennel bulbs.

Leek and Potato Bake: Serves 4
2 large leeks trimmed –equal quantity of ramps about 6 to 8
2 lb. potatoes- a more floury variety is best here – Idaho, Russet, Eastern All-Purpose
1 ½ cups light cream
6 oz. Brie cheese sliced
Trim leeks (ramps), cut across in ½ inch slices and blanch for 1 min. Pierce the potatoes and microwave for 2 min. cool and slice thin. Put half the potatoes in a shallow baking dish and spread out to the edges and cover with 2/3^rd of the leeks (ramps). Cover with the rest of the potatoes and tuck the other 1/3^rdof leeks and the cheese around and slightly under the potatoes. Pour the cream over and bake in a preheated 360 deg.  oven for 1 hour until potatoes are tender. Cover with foil if the top begins to over brown.

Caramelized Shallots or Pearl Onions: Serves 4-6
1 ½ lb. shallots or pearl onions – skins peeled but root ends left on
1 Tbs. sugar
2 Tbs. butter
2 Tbs. oil
1 cup water, wine or broth
Sauté the shallots in the melted butter and the oil over medium heat until golden. Sprinkle in the sugar, toss to coat and continue to cook on low heat, until vegetables begin to glaze. Add liquid, cover and cook for 2-7 min. until vegetables are tender. Remove lid, allow steam to escape and cook until liquid evaporates and shallots are light brown and well glazed.

Green Peas, Lettuce and Scallions (Green Onions) Serves 6

1 Tbs. butter

Salt and pepper and lemon pepper

2 heads Bibb lettuce-halved lengthwise

3 bunches scallions—roots and tough green ends trimmed

1 lb. peas- frozen or fresh

1 Tbs. oil

Salt and pepper and lemon pepper

Melt the oil in a sauce pan over low heat; gently toss the lettuce and scallions to coat well.

Sprinkle with a little salt and freshly ground pepper. Butter, cover and cook 5 min. stirring once.

Add peas, toss to coat well in sauce and add ¼ cup water, cook 5 min. Uncover, increase heat to medium and stir constantly until water evaporates. Adjust seasonings using lemon pepper. Serve.
Peas and Mint: Serves 4-6

1 lb. fresh or frozen peas

¼  cup. chopped fresh mint.

2 Tbs. butter

Steam or lightly boil the peas until crisp tender about 5 min or as stated on package. Drain, add mint or butter and toss to coat and mix, Serve at once.

Sautéed Radishes: Serves 4- from 500 3-Ingredient Recipes by Robert and Carol Hildebrand.
1 lb. radishes-trimmed and split lengthwise
1 Tbs. minced garlic
1 Tbs. rice vinegar or other light, flavored vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and pepper
Heat the oil in a sauté pan over medium heat, add the radishes, season and add garlic. Cook 5-6 min. gently tossing. Add the vinegar and stir to incorporate. Serve at once.

Spring Spinach Salad: Serves 6-8—depending on size of bag OR
7-12 oz. . fresh, spring spinach
4-6 red radishes= 1 per serving
¼ cup toasted, chopped walnuts
4-5 fresh strawberries per serving – halved if large
½ cup crumbled feta cheese—optional for garnish
Vinaigrette dressing of choice—Raspberry suggested
Wash greens snap off hard stems, wash and hull berries, wash and thinly slice radishes, discarding greens. Chill all ingredients, in water if necessary. Drain and divide the spinach among plates, scatter radish slices, then berries, nuts and cheese over. Drizzle with dressing.

Spinach Pie: Serves 4
(1) 10 oz. package frozen chopped spinach-thawed-excess water drained off
1 envelope beef or chicken bouillon granules
1 egg slightly beaten
pinch nutmeg
Mix first 2 ingredients, pour into a lightly greased casserole, sprinkle with nutmeg and bake 30 min.in a 350 deg. oven until set, or microwave 8-10 min. Serve hot. Transport as for corn above.

Berry Napoleons: Serves 4
1 sheet puff pastry – rolled out to 9 x 12 inches
1 pint fresh berries of choice
1 ½ cup heavy cream or 2 cups whipped topping, or ice cream
Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the dough into (12) 3 x 3 inch squares. Bake on the paper in a preheated 400deg oven for 15 min. or until golden. Cool and store air-tight if not to be used at once.
TO SERVE: Whip cream if using. Lay a square of pastry on a plate, place a portion of the cream then berries on top. Place the next piece of pastry on an angle on top. If serving 6, garnish with powdered sugar. If serving 4, repeat layers, placing the top piece of pastry at another angle, garnish with powdered sugar.

Have a Happy Holiday and stop to take a look at the book. Even if you don’t follow a recipe, you’ll discover many useful tips. You can find it on the site bookshelf, Kindle and our Etsy store. It’s a lot of value for $3.99.