CLOSE
Cooking

by -
0 892
Seared Salmon with Sautéed Greens. Metro Photo

By Barbara Beltrami

I know it’s somewhat of a thematic stretch between the wearin’ of the green and the cookin’ and eatin’ of the green, but frankly, I’ve run out of things to say about corned beef and cabbage. So please bear with me as I share with you some of my favorite greens dishes that are chock full of goodness and that important color for St. Patrick’s Day. When I think of greens, I think mostly of leafy green veggies … things like spinach and collard greens, broccoli and escarole, and Swiss chard that lend exciting taste dimensions and texture. And … they are also nice accompaniments to left-over corned beef.

Sautéed Greens 

YIELD: Makes 4 to 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

2 pounds thoroughly washed spinach, kale, Swiss chard or escarole

4 quarts water

Salt to taste

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 to 4 garlic cloves, chopped

Dried hot red pepper flakes to taste

Freshly squeezed lemon juice to taste

DIRECTIONS:

In large pot bring water to a boil; add salt, then drop greens into water and boil until tender, but bright green, about 5 minutes. Drain but reserve 1/3 cup of cooking water. Press or squeeze all excess moisture out of greens. Drizzle half the oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat; add garlic and hot pepper and stir until garlic releases its aroma, about one minute. Immediately add greens and reserved cooking water; stir-fry just long enough to combine flavors and heat through; toss with remaining oil and lemon juice. Serve with corned beef or any meat, poultry or fish.

Not Quite Caesar Salad

YIELD: Makes 4 to 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1 garlic clove, minced

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon minced fresh chives

6 anchovy fillets, finely chopped

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon chopped flat leaf parsley

1 head romaine lettuce, leaves separated and torn into bite-size pieces

1 head Boston or butter lettuce, leaves separated and torn into bite-size pieces

DIRECTIONS:

In a large salad bowl whisk together the garlic, mayonnaise, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chives, anchovies, pepper and parsley; let stand at room temperature at least an hour. Just before serving add the lettuces and toss thoroughly to combine. Serve immediately at room temperature with cold sliced corned beef, turkey or chicken.

Collard Greens with Corned Beef

YIELD: Makes 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon corn or vegetable oil

4 slices bacon

1 large onion, chopped

2 to 3 cups chopped cooked corned beef

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1 pound collard greens, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces

3 cups chicken broth

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Generous dash Tabasco sauce

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat; add bacon and fry until crisp, then remove, crumble and set aside. Add onion and cook till it starts to brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add corned beef and garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until garlic releases its aroma, about one minute. Add greens and cook, stirring frequently, until they start to wilt. Add broth and salt and pepper, bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer until greens are tender, about 40 to 50 minutes; splash with Tabasco sauce, toss and serve with mashed potatoes.

by -
0 1166
Mint Brownies

Lucky Mint Brownie Perfection

Courtesy of Family Features

How lucky you must be to come across this recipe just in time for St. Patrick’s Day! This one is a twisted combination of mint and sweet chocolate that’s sure to have almost anyone’s taste buds screaming “yum.” This dessert might just be the pot of gold at the end of your rainbow this year.

These Mint Brownies have three delicious layers. First, a supreme brownie on bottom. Then a fluffy, green mint layer that’s full of flavor and color. Last, but definitely not least, a chocolate layer on top made with chocolate chips, butter and a little whipping cream.

All of these layers create a smooth, sweet, minty, bite-sized dessert perfect for any occasion but especially St. Patrick’s Day. The green mint color really pops off the plate, giving it some extra flare and an appetizing glow.

Mint Brownies

Servings: 9-12
Ingredients:

Nonstick cooking spray

1 box supreme brownie mix with chocolate syrup pouch

3 tablespoons water

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 egg

Filling:

3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1/4 cup butter, softened

1/4 cup whipping cream

5 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

5 drops green food color

Topping:

1/2 cup whipping cream

1 bag (12 ounces) chocolate chips

1/2 cup butter

Directions:

Heat oven to 350 F.

Spray 8-by-8-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, mix brownie mix, water, oil and egg until combined. Pour into prepared baking pan. Bake 35 minutes. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

To make filling: In large bowl, beat powdered sugar, butter, whipping cream, cream cheese, peppermint extract and food coloring. Spread over cooled brownies. Refrigerate 1 hour, or until set.

To make topping: In saucepan, melt whipping cream, chocolate chips and butter until smooth. Cool until lukewarm, about 10 minutes. Pour over filling; spread to cover. Refrigerate 2 hours, or until set.

Before serving, let brownies set 10 minutes at room temperature.

Tips: Cut brownies with wet knife for cleaner cuts. Store covered in refrigerator.

by -
0 792
Photo from Pexels

By Barbara Beltrami

O.K. We New Yorkers know the value of a perfect bagel with lox and cream cheese. It’s definitely the Sunday morning default breakfast for many of us, but beyond the bagel, smoked salmon is definitely a go-to feature for an elegant brunch, lunch or cocktail party. As we’re thinking outside the box, let’s contemplate a delicate pasta doused with a cream sauce infused with smoked salmon Let’s serve up a savory pumpernickel bread pudding laced with it or easy-as-can-be smoked salmon and goat cheese rollups.

Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Smoked Salmon Sauce

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

 INGREDIENTS:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 large shallot peeled and chopped

4 ounces smoked salmon torn into bite    size pieces

1 cup heavy cream

Scant 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained

Salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste

1 pound angel hair pasta, cooked according to package directions (reserve 1/4 cup of cooking liquid)

1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

DIRECTIONS:

In a large skillet heat the oil over medium high heat; add shallot and cook until transparent but not brown, about 5 minutes. Add salmon pieces and stirring with a wooden spoon, cook until it turns a light pink, about one more minute. Add cream and capers, then sparingly the salt and pepper as the salmon and capers lend their own saltiness. In a large bowl combine the sauce and pasta and toss to thoroughly coat. If the sauce seems a little sparse, add the reserved cooking water, a few tablespoons at a time. Toss again and sprinkle with dill. Serve with a delicate salad.

Savory Smoked Salmon and Pumpernickel Bread Pudding

YIELD: Serves 6

INGREDIENTS: 

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 loaf pumpernickel bread, thickly sliced, cut into cubes and toasted 

3/4 pound smoked salmon, thinly sliced and torn into bite-size pieces 

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained

2 cups milk

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon prepared mustard

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

 Generous handful fresh dill, chopped

1 cup grated Jarlsberg cheese 

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease an 8″ x 8″ baking dish with butter. In a large bowl combine the bread, smoked salmon, onion and capers. In another medium-large bowl whisk together the milk, eggs, mustard, and salt and pepper; then stir in the dill and cheese. Pour mixture over bread mixture and toss to thoroughly coat; let sit 10 minutes so bread absorbs liquid. Pour entire mixture into prepared baking dish and bake until puffy and golden, about 45 minutes. Serve hot or warm with fresh fruit or spinach salad.

Smoked Salmon Rollups

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

 INGREDIENTS:

4 ounces chive cream cheese at room temp

4 ounces goat cheese, softened

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 to 2 tablespoons cream

2 tablespoons minced fresh chives

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

2 tablespoons grated English cucumber 

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 

8 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon 

Fresh dill for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine cream cheese, goat cheese, lemon juice, cream, chives, dill, cucumber, and salt and pepper. On a sheet of waxed paper arrange the smoked salmon into a 3” x 12” rectangle. With your fingers press slices or pieces together to fill in gaps; gently spread cheese mixture over salmon, then starting at long end, roll up as tightly as possible. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least one hour. Unwrap and slice into 1/2” discs. Garnish with fresh dill. Serve with cocktails.

by -
0 975
Sheet Pan Chicken and Roasted Veggies. Photo from Pixabay

By Barbara Beltrami

We who are both cooks and chief pot and bottle washers love one-pot meals. How nice to throw everything into a big pot and cook it all together. Then how wonderful to have only that one pot to wash. Well, what one pot is to the stove top, the sheet pan is to the oven. How nice to preheat the oven to a high temperature, then throw everything onto a sheet pan, and bake or roast the whole meal together in just a little time. Then how great it is to have just that one sheet pan to wash. (Invest in a nonstick one while you’re at it). No wonder this cooking method is all the rage and has been for a while now. As you will notice, all the following recipes are for straightforward, no nonsense easy prep dishes which should double their popularity with you.

Sheet Pan Chicken and Roasted Veggies

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Nonstick cooking spray

One 3 1/2 – 4 pound chicken, cut up

2 large onions, peeled and coarsely chopped

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into1/8ths

4 carrots, peeled and diced into 1/2 diagonally

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 T chopped fresh oregano or 1 tsp. dried

Freshly squeezed juice of two lemons

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 F. Spray rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Wash chicken pieces in cold water and pat dry with paper towels; place, skin size up, at one end of baking sheet. Place onions next to chicken, then potatoes, then carrots at other end. Season everything with salt, pepper and oregano and press seasoning into chicken and veggies; drizzle lemon juice over everything, then olive oil. Place in preheated oven and roast for 30 to 45 minutes, turning chicken when skin is a nice brown and with a spatula, turning veggies to brown on all sides. Serve hot or warm with a Greek salad (if you don’t mind cleaning the salad bowl afterward!)

Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers 

YIELD: Makes 4 to 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

8 sweet Italian sausages

6 cubanelle peppers, cored, seeded and cut into 1” strips

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 to 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 F. If they are linked, detach sausages from each other and space across one end of a rimmed baking sheet. In a large bowl, toss the pepper strips with the oil, vinegar, salt and pepper and crushed red pepper. Transfer to empty part of sheet pan. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, turning everything occasionally, until brown on all sides. Serve hot with garlic bread.

Sheet Pan Balsamic Swordfish with Brussels Sprouts and Fennel

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

2 pounds swordfish, cut into 4 pieces

1 bruised garlic clove

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon

1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon prepared mustard

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1/4 cup dry white wine

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 1/2 pounds trimmed Brussels sprouts, halved

2 fennel bulbs, trimmed, cut into 1/4” slices

Nonstick cooking spray

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 F. Press and rub garlic clove against sides of a small bowl to release some of its flavor, then remove and discard; in same bowl whisk together the oil, lemon juice, Balsamic vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, wine and salt and pepper. With pastry brush, coat swordfish on both sides with 1/4 of mixture; let sit 10 minutes. in a large bowl toss remaining mixture with the Brussels sprouts and fennel; let sit 10 minutes. 

Spray a rimmed sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange swordfish pieces on 1/3 of the pan, then veggies on other 2/3; use any left over marinade from veggies to baste fish. Turning once, bake swordfish until it flakes in center when tested with a fork, about 10 to 15 minutes; if done remove and set aside to keep warm. Continue baking veggies, turning once, until al dente, about another 10 to 15 minutes. Serve with sweet potatoes baked in their skins.

by -
0 1183
Vermont Cheddar, Potato and Dill Soup

By Barbara Beltrami

Chunky and hearty winter soups are fine, but there’s something special about a savory, smooth soup, sipped from a mug. Only as far away as a food processor, blender or kitchen wand, almost any soup can become a satiny pick-me-up to chase away the synergism of winter and pandemic blahs and warm your tummy while you work at home, watch TV or wallow in another best seller novel with a predictable plot. Three of my favorites are Bloody Mary Soup (yes, including the vodka!); Vermont Cheddar, Potato and Dill Soup; and Curried Cream of Carrot Soup.

Bloody Mary Soup

YIELD: Makes 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 stick unsalted butter

4 celery ribs, minced

1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded and minced

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced

2 cups canned tomatoes, with juice

3 1/2 cups tomato juice

Freshly grated zest of one lemon

1/4 cup prepared horseradish

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 cup unflavored vodka at room temperature

Juice of 2 lemons

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Scallions and lemon slices for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

In a large saucepan, heat butter over low heat; add celery, red bell pepper and jalapeño pepper. Cover pot and cook veggies over low heat until very soft, about 20 to 30 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, tomato juice, lemon zest, horseradish, salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat 5 minutes. Puree soup in electric food processor, blender or with wand until very smooth, return to pot and stir in vodka, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce; heat until hot but not boiling. Garnish with sliced scallions and lemon slices, if using. Serve with cheddar flavored crackers.

Vermont Cheddar, Potato and Dill Soup

Vermont Cheddar, Potato and Dill Soup

YIELD: Makes 6 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

1/2 stick unsalted butter

2 cups finely chopped onions

2 cups peeled and finely chopped carrots

1/2 cup chopped flat leaf parsley

5 cups chicken broth

3 to 4 cups chopped peeled potatoes (about 4 medium)

1 cup chopped fresh dill

Salt and white pepper to taste

2 1/2 cups grated sharp Vermont cheddar cheese

Chopped dill for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

In a large pot melt butter; add onions and carrots, cover and cook over low heat until soft, about 20 to 30 minutes. Add parsley, broth and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover again and simmer until potatoes are very soft, about 20 to 30 minutes. Add dill; remove pot from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes. 

Pour soup through strainer and reserve liquid; transfer solids to bowl of electric food processor or blender. Add one cup of reserved liquid and process until very smooth; return pureed solids to pot over low heat, and stirring with wire whisk, return 3 to 4 cups liquid to pot until soup reaches desired consistency. Add salt and pepper, and with wooden spoon, gradually stir in grated cheese. Garnish with chopped dill and serve hot with pumpernickel croutons.

Curried Cream of Carrot Soup

YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/2 pounds carrots, sliced into 1” rounds

1 large onion, chopped

1 generous tablespoon unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, chopped

2 generous tablespoons curry powder

3 cups chicken stock

1 cup milk

1/2 cup cream

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Plain yogurt for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

In large saucepan or pot, over medium heat warm oil to shimmering point; add carrots and onion and sauté, stirring frequently, until onions start to brown, about 7 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add butter, garlic and curry and continue to sauté until they release their fragrance, about 45 seconds. Add stock, stir and bring to simmer over medium-high heat; continue to simmer until carrots are very tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. 

Remove from heat and let sit for 15 minutes, then puree in electric food processor or blender until very smooth (this will have to be done in at least two batches.) Return soup to pot and stir in enough milk and cream to achieve a thick but liquid consistency. Over medium-low heat bring to a gentle simmer until hot. Top with a dollop of yogurt and serve with peanuts or garlic croutons.

by -
0 1567
Cherry Coffee Cake

The month of February has a few important events to celebrate. One such event is Presidents’ Day, which this year will be observed on February 15. Presidents’ Day honors both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, two influential presidents who were born in February. 

Some may recall a legend about George Washington and a cherry tree, as it’s one of the most popular tales tied to the nation’s first president. The original story has a young George receiving a hatchet as a gift when he is six years old. Young George ends up using it to cut into his father’s cherry tree. After discovering the damage, George’s father confronts him. Rather than lie, George admits to his wrongdoing. George’s father commends him for his honesty, indicating that honesty has more value than a cherry tree.

While no one is suggesting to cut down a cherry tree in February in honor of George Washington, the value of this tale and lesson can be celebrated symbolically with these two tasty recipes, a Cherry Coffee Cake and Martha Washington’s Cherry and Butter Bread Pudding.

Cherry Coffee Cake

Add some sweetness to your breakfast routine with this delicious and easy-to-make morning snack.

YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Nonstick cooking spray

1 can (12.4 ounces) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing

1 1/2 cups (21-ounce can) cherry pie filling

1/2 cup slivered almonds or pecans (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 375 F. Spray 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray. 

Separate cinnamon roll dough into eight rolls; cut each roll into quarters. Place dough rounded-side down in pan. Spoon pie filling over rolls. Sprinkle almond slivers or pecans over cherry filling, if desired. Bake 25 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown. Invert onto plate or cutting board. Invert again onto serving plate. Remove lid from icing. Microwave 3 to 10 seconds. Stir icing and drizzle over warm coffee cake before serving.

Martha Washington’s Cherry and Butter Bread Pudding

This recipe is rumored to be our first First Lady’s favorite dessert to make. A firm bread like Pepperidge Farm or Arnold is recommended, and while cherry preserves are used for this recipe, any type of fruit preserve may be substituted. 

YIELD: Makes 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

12 slices white bread

Butter or margarine

Cinnamon

10-oz. cherry preserves

4 eggs

2 and 2/3 cups milk

2 tablespoons of sugar

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Butter an 8 by 8 inch baking dish. Cut crusts from 12 slices white bread. Spread butter on one side of each slice. Arrange 4 slices bread in bottom of dish and sprinkle each lightly with cinnamon. Spread a spoonful of cherry preserves on each slice. Repeat, making two more layers. Beat eggs in a medium mixing bowl. Add milk and sugar and stir until well mixed. Pour over bread and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until top is golden brown and the custard is set. Serve warm from the oven. 

This article first appeared in TBR News Media’s Prime Times supplement on Jan. 28, 2021 under Recipe Corner.

by -
0 721
Stock photo

By Barbara Beltrami

Can even a small silver lining be found in the cloud of the COVID-19 isolation? If you and your spouse or significant other are both working from home, you can do a Valentine’s Day brunch. And even if you’re alone, you can do one for yourself, because hey, ya gotta love yourself too. It can be anything from a thick deli sandwich to takeout from your favorite restaurant to whipping up something special at home. If you’re inclined to think the third choice could be fun, I’ve got some great menu items to suggest. I’m thinking a lobster salad with avocado on a croissant, a quiche Lorraine with browned onions or coconut-almond pancakes. Of course, a Bloody Mary, Mimosa or glass of champagne is a must, and to make the whole thing extra special, have your brunch in bed.

Lobster Salad with Avocado

YIELD: Makes 2 servings

 INGREDIENTS:

1/2 pound lobster meat

1 celery rib, cleaned and finely chopped

1 scallion, thinly sliced

1/2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/4 cup mayonnaise

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

2 croissants, sliced open and lightly toasted and buttered

2 large leaves Boston lettuce, washed, drained

1/2 avocado, cut into 4 wedges, then brushed with lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl combine lobster, celery, scallion, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and salt and pepper. Lay the croissant halves on two plates; spread lobster mixture on one half and top lengthwise with two avocado wedges, then lay lettuce on top of avocado. Place other croissant half on top and cut croissant in half. Serve with a tossed salad and potato chips.

Quiche Lorraine with Browned Onions

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Pastry for an 9” pie

4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled, fat reserved 

1 onion, diced

1 cup diced Swiss cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese

4 eggs, lightly beaten

2 cups half and half

Dash nutmeg

Salt and freshly ground white pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line pie plate with pastry and build and flute a substantial crust around rim; place aluminum foil over bottom of crust, then spread pie weights evenly over it. Bake 10 minutes. 

Meanwhile, over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, cook diced onion in bacon fat until nicely browned, about 8 to 10 minutes; remove to paper towels to drain. Remove crust from oven; remove pie weights and discard aluminum foil. Reduce oven heat to 375 F. Sprinkle bacon, onion, Swiss cheese and grated cheese evenly over inside of partially baked crust. In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, nutmeg and salt and pepper; pour into crust over bacon, onion and cheeses.

Place pie plate on cookie sheet and place on middle rack of oven; bake until knife inserted near edge comes out clean, about 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool 10 to 15 minutes. Serve hot or warm with fruit salad or spinach salad.

Coconut-Almond Pancakes

YIELD: Makes 2 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/4 cups shredded coconut 

1/3 cup sliced almonds

2 cups flour

1 tablespoon baking powder 

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

3/4 cup milk

2 small or medium eggs

1 teaspoon coconut extract

2 teaspoons honey

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, cooled 

Nonstick cooking spray

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 F. Spread coconut and almonds on a baking sheet and toast till lightly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from baking sheet and let cool; reserve baking sheet; reduce oven temperature to 200 F. In large bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. 

In medium bowl whisk together buttermilk, milk, eggs, coconut extract, honey and melted butter. Whisk into dry ingredients just until combined (don’t worry about a few lumps);  let batter rest for 10 minutes. With heat on medium-high, heat a griddle until hot (a few drops of water should bounce when sprinkled); spray with nonstick cooking spray. Ladle 1/4 cup batter onto griddle and spread into 5” round; repeat procedure; flip once till golden brown on both sides; remove to baking sheet and put into oven to keep warm. 

When ready to serve, stack pancakes with coconut and almonds sprinkled between them. Serve hot with maple syrup and sliced mangoes or oranges.

by -
0 1045
Prune and Apricot Pie

By Barbara Beltrami

When other kids were smacking their lips over a big slice of chocolate cake or a batch of brownies, I was salivating over prune and apricot pie with a huge dollop of whipped cream. I know. Weird. Segue into this week’s column topic, dried fruit. If you ask me, by the time you get around to February, you’re much better off eating and cooking with dried fruit than fresh fruit. How many times have you gotten home to find the apples mealy, the oranges desiccated, and the pears hard and flavorless as a raw potato? So here are a few recipes for using dried fruit to change up the mealtime repertoire and to add some interest to what’s coming off the stovetop and out of the oven.

Middle Eastern Chicken Tagine with Dried Fruit and Olives

YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 whole 3 or 4 –pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1/4 cup unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 large onions, finely chopped

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon turmeric

1teaspoon cayenne

1 teaspoon ground ginger

2 cups chicken broth

3/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped

1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped

1/3 cup dried figs, chopped

2 preserved lemons, quartered

2/3 cup finely chopped cilantro

Scant 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

In a 6-quart Dutch oven heat oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper and cook, turning once, until golden on both sides, about 10 minutes.  Remove from pot and set aside. Melt butter in pot, then add garlic and onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft, about 15 minutes. Add bay leaf, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, cayenne and ginger and cook, stirring frequently, until spices release their aroma about two minutes; return chicken to pot and add broth, olives, apricots, figs and  preserved lemons and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes; Stir in cilantro and fresh lemon juice and serve hot with couscous.

Prune and Apricot Pie

Dried Apricots

YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Two 9” pie crusts

2 1/2 cups dried apricots and pitted prunes, cooked and drained (1/2 cup liquid reserved and kept hot).  

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 cup sugar

Pinch of salt

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 F. Line 9” pie plate with one crust. Bring reserved cooking liquid to a soft boil and whisk in cornstarch. Cook over medium-low heat until mixture starts to thicken slightly; add the cooked fruit, sugar, salt, nutmeg and lemon juice and stir; pour into pie crust-lined dish and dot evenly with tiny pieces of butter. Cut remaining crust into 1”-wide strips and place over filling to form a lattice pattern; seal edges of crusts together. Place in oven and bake 40 to 50 minutes until crust is golden and filling is bubbling and thickened. Serve hot or warm with sweetened whipped cream.

Brandied Dried Fruit Compote

YIELD: Makes 4 cups

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups water divided into two containers

12 ounces dried apricots, figs or pitted prunes, apples, cherries and raisins

1/2 cup orange juice

1/2 cup sugar

Zest of one lemon

1 cinnamon stick

1/4 cup brandy

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl soak the fruit in two cups of the water for one or two hours. Coarsely chop larger fruits. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat combine the fruit, soaking liquid, remaining two cups water, orange juice, sugar and lemon zest. Stirring occasionally, bring to boil, reduce heat to medium-low and add cinnamon stick; simmer 55 to 65 minutes, until fruit is plump and soft and liquid has turned syrupy. Just before serving, remove cinnamon stick, add brandy and serve hot or warm over vanilla ice cream with biscotti.

by -
0 1850
Fried chicken with collard greens and corn bread

By Barbara Beltrami

February is Black History Month and what better way to celebrate than with traditional, historic recipes for soul food, that wonderful collection of Southern-style dishes that boasts big delicious flavors. Here are some of my favorite must-try Southern foods, from fried chicken and cornbread to collard greens and black eyed peas. I’ve pestered friends for their heirloom recipes, and here they are.

Marjorie Grann’s Fried Chicken

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

One 3 to 4 pound chicken, cut up

1 cup buttermilk

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon cayenne

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Vegetable oil for frying

DIRECTIONS:

Wash chicken and pat dry with paper towel. Pour buttermilk into shallow dish and dip chicken into it to coat. Pour flour, cayenne, salt and pepper into a resealable plastic bag and shake to combine. Place chicken pieces, one at a time, in bag and shake to coat; remove pieces to platter, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until coating has a pasty consistency, about two hours. In large skillet heat 2 to 3 inches of oil over medium high heat until very hot and carefully place chicken pieces in oil. Fry, turning once, until both sides are golden; reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 30 minutes, then raise heat again to medium-high, remove cover and continue to cook until chicken is crispy; drain on paper towels. Serve hot, warm or at room temperature with potato salad or candied yams and collard greens.

Eunice McNeal’s Collard Greens

YIELD: Makes 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1 large onion, chopped

1 smoked ham hock

3 garlic cloves, chopped

7 cups chicken broth

1 pound collard greens, washed and trimmed

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

3 1/2 teaspoons sugar

1 teaspoon cayenne

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

In a large pot combine onion, ham hock, garlic and chicken broth; cook over medium heat until meat pulls away from bone, about two hours; add collard greens, vinegar, sugar, cayenne and salt and pepper and cook until greens are tender, about two more hours. Drain extra liquid if desired. Serve hot or warm with barbecued ribs and black-eyed peas.

Doralee Petty’s Buttermilk Cornbread

YIELD: Makes 4 to 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, cooled

3/4 cup flour

3/4 cup yellow cornmeal

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

2 eggs

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 F; place rack in middle of oven. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with one tablespoon of the butter. In large bowl thoroughly combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In medium bowl vigorously whisk together the buttermilk and eggs; add the remaining 5 tablespoons of melted butter and the flour mixture. Stir only until completely blended; pour batter into prepared pan and bake until top is golden and cake tester inserted in center comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Serve hot, warm or at room temperature with butter, collard greens, black-eyed peas and fried chicken

Simon Birdsall’s Black-Eyed Peas

YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound black-eyed peas, soaked overnight, drained and rinsed

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

8 ounces pork shoulder, diced into one-inch cubes

4 strips bacon, cut into one-inch pieces

1 large onion, diced

4 garlic cloves, peeled and sliced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon cayenne

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

2 cups water

2 bay leaves

Apple cider vinegar to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Warm oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering; add pork cubes and brown on all sides, about 10 minutes. Add bacon, onion, garlic, salt and pepper and cayenne and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned, about 7 minutes. Add broth, water and bay leaves, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Add peas to pot and simmer until they are soft but not mushy, about one to one and a half hours. Remove bay leaves, adjust seasonings, add vinegar and serve hot or warm with collard greens and fried chicken.

 

by -
0 961

By Barbara Beltrami

I don’t know what the time between this writing and its publication will bring, and given recent events, I’m worried. However, my stubborn faith in our democracy and Constitution and a resolution to celebrate the Inauguration and all it stands for inspires this column bearing recipes from a few government sources. Most famous and ubiquitously published is the Navy Bean Soup served in one of the Senate restaurants. Then there’s the late Representative John Lewis’s recipe for Barbecued Chicken and White House Chef (1966-1987) Henry Haller’s popular Cooked Vegetable Salad. 

Senate Navy Bean Soup

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

1 pound dried navy beans, picked over

1 pound ham, with bone

2 potatoes, peeled and quartered

Salt 

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large onion, chopped

1 celery rib, chopped 

2 garlic cloves chopped

1/4 cup fresh chopped flat leaf parsley

Freshly ground pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS: 

Put beans in large pot with 3 times their volume in water and put in a cool place to soak overnight. Drain and transfer to a large Dutch oven; add 10 cups water and ham; bring to simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook 1 1/2 hours, until beans are tender. Transfer ham to cutting board to cool, then remove bone, cut meat into bite-size pieces and return to pot. 

Meanwhile place potatoes in a saucepan, cover with salted water, bring to boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to simmer and cook until potatoes are fork tender, about 25 minutes; drain, mash and add to beans and ham and stir to combine thoroughly. In large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add onion, celery, garlic and parsley; season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are translucent; add to bean mixture and cook over low heat, adding water if needed, season with salt and pepper and cook one hour. Serve hot with a crispy, crunchy salad.

Rep. John Lewis’s Barbecued Chicken

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

2 cups ketchup

1 teaspoon prepared mustard

1 to 2 tablespoons Tabasco or other hot sauce

Pinch cayenne pepper

Pinch black pepper

1 onion, finely chopped

1 frying chicken, cut up or equivalent chicken pieces

DIRECTIONS: 

Preheat oven to 350 F. In a medium bowl, combine ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, cayenne, pepper and onion. Put chicken parts in greased 9 x 13” baking pan; spread sauce over chicken; bake for one hour, basting chicken with juices halfway through. Serve hot or warm with rice, potato salad or sweet potatoes and a green salad.

White House Chef Henry Haller’s Vegetable Salad

Chef Henry Haller

 

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

2 cups tiny green peas, cooked, drained, cooled

2 cups diced carrots, cooked, drained, cooled

2 cups diced celery

1 cup peeled and cored diced apple

Salt and pepper to taste

3/4 cup mayonnaise

DIRECTIONS: 

In large bowl combine vegetables with celery and apple, salt and pepper. Add mayonnaise and toss lightly with a fork. Serve with soft rolls and butter.

Prev1...303132...57Next Page 31 of 57
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©