Smoky lentil stew with potatoes and leeks

We tried this NYT recipe: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1021588-smoky-lentil-stew-with-leeks-and-potatoes?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share The recipe called for 5 potatoes without specifying weight; we used 3 medium Russets, which was more than enough. At the end of cooking, we added 1.5 Tbsp pomegranate balsamic vinegar and ½ tsp sugar for brightness. (Dec. 2021)

North African bean stew with barley and winter squash

We tried this recipe: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017916-north-african-bean-stew-with-barley-and-winter-squash?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share We found that 2 cups diced butternut squash = half of a medium. We did add 1 cup of broth (for a total of 12 cups) at the end (to make it soupier) and balanced with red wine vinegar and a dash of sugar. We served with fresh lemon wedges.… Continue reading North African bean stew with barley and winter squash

Moroccan eggplant and chick pea tagine

We tried this recipe from a UK website: https://skinnyspatula.com/moroccan-aubergine-chickpea-tagine/ We made some modifications: first, instead of frying the eggplant, we oven-roasted it at 425 F for 18 mins after cutting into 1 inch chunks, lightly salting, and tossing in 1 Tbsp canola oil (olive oil tends to smoke in our oven). Then we reduced the… Continue reading Moroccan eggplant and chick pea tagine

Lemon-barley stuffing

We tried this recipe, but made it as dressing (a side dish): https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1014035-lemon-barley-stuffing?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share We halved the recipe. We also made a few substitutions: first, we used toasted slivered almonds instead of hazelnuts; second, 2 Tbsp minced leek (white part) in lieu of chives. We prepared the barley and roast shiitake mushroom a day ahead, reheating… Continue reading Lemon-barley stuffing

Turkey chili

We tried this NYT recipe: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/7985-turkey-chili?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share In lieu of a bell pepper, we added 2 small-medium Korean sweet potatoes (skin on, diced). After sauteeing the minced turkey (which we reduced to 1 lb 10 oz), we set the turkey aside and then sauteed the diced sweet potato for about 5 mins before adding the onion,… Continue reading Turkey chili

Middle eastern-style couscous with pinto beans, cauliflower, and bell pepper

We tried this NYT recipe: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/12757-couscous-with-tomatoes-cauliflower-red-peppers-and-olives?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share Running low on time, we used 14 oz diced tomatoes with juice and used a combo of hot chicken broth (4 cups) and hot water (4 cups). We soaked 2 cups dried pinto beans overnight, then drained them. During step 1, after adding the drained beans, bouquet garni, and… Continue reading Middle eastern-style couscous with pinto beans, cauliflower, and bell pepper

Chicken broth with orzo and beet greens

This was a good use of beet greens that we had leftover from a beet salad for a potluck. We loosely followed this recipe: https://myhalalkitchen.com/summer-greens-soup-orzo-wholesome-chicken-broth/ Our modifications: first, for the greens we used: beet stems and leaves from 3 bundles of beets (about 4 cups total); stem and florets from 1 small broccoli stem; and… Continue reading Chicken broth with orzo and beet greens

Fruit salad with lime-honey dressing

This is a simple and refreshing dessert. First, prepare approximately 4 cups of seasonal fresh fruit (here, quartered strawberries, halved red flame grapes, blueberries, and sliced banana) in a large serving bowl. Sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper. Drizzle with juice from half a lime and 1 Tbsp honey. Mix well and serve. (Nov.… Continue reading Fruit salad with lime-honey dressing

Filipino chicken soup with bottle gourd and bean thread noodles

This is one of our favorite soups. It comes together quickly and makes a light, flavorful dinner. Details here: https://www.kawalingpinoy.com/sotanghon-at-upo-soup/ We prefer to cut the bottle gourd into 1/2" dice (instead of 1"). Instead of water, we use diluted chicken broth (1 Tbsp Better Than Bouillon dissolved in 4 cups hot water). In terms of… Continue reading Filipino chicken soup with bottle gourd and bean thread noodles

SkinnyTaste banana oat pancakes

We tried this recipe: https://www.skinnytaste.com/4-ingredient-flourless-banana-nut-pancakes/ Two modifications: first, in lieu of quick-cook oats, we used 2 Tbsp old-fashioned oats, which we coarsely chopped. Second, even with a Teflon-coated pan, we recommend lightly spraying with canola oil before pouring the batter. Otherwise, the pancakes stick to the pan. This was very tasty. We served with maple… Continue reading SkinnyTaste banana oat pancakes