Freekeh Picadillo
Freekeh is prepared similarly to rice and other grains. It is available in both cracked and whole forms. Cracked freekeh takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes to cook, while the whole grain takes 40 to 45 minutes. You can use freekeh just as you would any healthy whole grain. Its unique nutty flavour imparts an exotic cachet to even the most banal of recipes! The following recipe can be prepared as a side dish or stuffed inside peppers or squash for a vegan entree.
1/2 cup (125 mL) organic raisins
1 Tbsp (30 mL) extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red pepper, chopped
2 tsp (10 mL) cumin
3/4 tsp (4 mL) dried oregano
1/4 tsp (1 mL) cinnamon
1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) dried chili flakes
1 1/2 cups (350 mL) cooked freekeh
1 1/2 cups (350 mL) low-sodium tomato sauce
2 Tbsp (30 mL) sliced green olives
2 Tbsp (30 mL) sliced almonds
Soak raisins in a small bowl with 1/2 cup (125 mL) boiling water for several minutes to plump.
Meanwhile, heat oil in skillet and add chopped onion, stirring until softened. Add garlic, red pepper, and spices. Sauté for 2 or 3 minutes. Add freekeh, tomato sauce, olives, and drained raisins with 2 Tbsp (30 mL) of the soaking water, and heat through until mix comes to a slow simmer.
Sprinkle with sliced almonds and serve.
Serves 4.
Each serving contains: 305 calories; 11 g protein; 9 g total fat (1 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 64 g total carbohydrates (17 g sugars, 6 g fibre); 62 mg sodium
from "Cook on the WIld Side", alive #365, March 2013
Freekeh Picadillo
Directions
READ THIS NEXT
SEE MORE »
Greek Turkey Burger Bites
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.
Italian Portobello Mushroom Burger with Artichoke Tapenade
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.
Asian Shrimp Burger with Bean Sprout Slaw and Fresh Mango
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.
Jamaican Jerk Pork Sliders with Grilled Pineapple and Tangy Slaw
While on your burger journey, visit Jamaica, where you’ll find the spicy jerk flavours native to this beautiful island. Maple syrup adds a unique, sticky sweetness, while fresh lime juice highlights the fresh, tangy flavours of the Caribbean. Try making your own jerk seasoning or purchase store-bought for an easy shortcut.