Black rice (sometimes called forbidden rice) is an antioxidant-rich grain that can be purchased in bulk—as can cashews—so you skip the hefty price tag. Paired with chicken and a sweet-and-sour sauce, this lightened-up fried rice is good to both your body and wallet.
Make this meal meatless by substituting one 12 oz (350 g) package extra-firm tofu for the chicken. And for an even thriftier recipe, use unsalted peanuts in place of cashews.
Per serving:
In medium saucepan, bring water and rice to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 40 to 45 minutes. Steam, covered, for 5 minutes. Uncover, fluff with fork, and set aside. (This recipe benefits from chilling the rice overnight but can be made immediately with warm rice, too.)
For sauce, in small bowl, combine tamari, honey, ginger, chili flakes, and garlic. Set aside.
In large wok, heat sesame oil over medium. Add chicken, eggplant, green onions, and cashews. Stir-fry until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Increase heat to medium-high, add rice, and stir-fry for 1 minute. Stir in sauce and cook until garlic is fragrant and mixture is heated through. Serve immediately.
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.