This dish is based on Japanese ochazuke—cooked rice served in green tea, water, or broth. A few extra additions make it a satisfying and filling meal
Per serving:
In saucepan, bring water just to a boil over high heat. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in 1/4 cup (60 mL) camomile flowers and salt. Set aside and let steep for 8 minutes. Strain through fine mesh sieve into heatproof pouring container and set aside.
Meanwhile, place rice into mixing bowl and cover with cold water. Swirl rice in water, drain, and repeat 2 to 3 more times until water is clear. Into small saucepan, place rice, matcha powder, and 1 cup (250 mL) camomile tea and place over high heat. Bring to a boil, uncovered. Once at a boil, reduce heat to low and cover saucepan. Cook for 15 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat, keeping covered, and let stand for 10 minutes.
In small bowl, stir together roasted nori, sesame seeds, and remaining 1/4 tsp (1 mL) camomile flowers crumbled between your fingers. Set aside.
Divide rice, salmon, radishes, spinach leaves, and green peas evenly between 2 serving bowls. Warm remaining camomile tea, if needed, in small saucepan over medium heat until just at a simmer. Pour tea around rice, salmon, and vegetables. Garnish with nori mixture and green onion and enjoy.
Whether fresh or dried, there are a few tips to keep in mind to maximize the longevity of your edible flowers.
For fresh flowers purchased commercially, once home if you notice any dirt or insects, gently rinse by dipping flowers in a container of room temperature water or gently brushing away debris with a paintbrush or paper towel. Transfer flowers to hard-sided container lined with damp paper towel. Cover and refrigerate, changing paper towel every couple of days, until ready to use. Flowers should last about four to five days. For dried flowers, transfer to clean, dry, airtight container and keep at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Most dried flowers will keep well like this for up to one year.
Feel free to use a simple baked salmon fillet in place of smoked salmon if you prefer.
If you’re able to source fresh camomile flowers, you’ll need to increase the quantity in the recipe by 3 to 4 times to achieve the same flavour.
“Edible flowers all have their own distinct aroma and flavour that they’ll impart to a dish.”
This simple dessert celebrates the glory that is the summer strawberry. Don’t feel you have to stick to strawberries here; swapping them for ripe peaches would also make for a stunning ending to any meal. What to gild the lily with? Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Flower power Orange blossom water (also known as orange flower water) is produced by water distillation of the blossoms of a bitter orange tree. Just like rose water, a little goes a long way. So, take care and use just a drop or two, tasting as you go so as not to overwhelm but rather to complement the other flavours in a dish.
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.