Use the freshest green peas to make this simple soup. The same philosophy applies to the whitefish, although you may opt to change the fish to your local availability and liking.
1 onion, sliced
2 Tbsp (30 mL) organic butter
2 cups (500 mL) chicken stock
1/4 cup (60 mL) Riesling
1/2 bunch thyme
1 bay leaf
1 1/4 cups (310 mL) shelled fresh green peas
1/2 bunch parsley, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup (60 mL) heavy (35 percent) cream
12 oz (340 g) fresh whitefish filet, cut into 4 pieces
Whole green peas for garnish
Saute onion in butter over medium-low heat until transparent, about 5 minutes. Deglaze with 1/2 cup (125 mL) chicken stock and a splash of Riesling. Add thyme and bay leaf, turn heat to medium high, and reduce by half, about 5 minutes. Pour mixture through fine sieve into clean saucepan and return to stove over medium heat; bring to a boil. Add green peas, cooking for 3 or 4 minutes. Place pea mixture in blender with heavy cream and parsley leaves and pure until smooth. Return to saucepan and keep warm.
Place whitefish in top of a steamer over remaining chicken stock and Riesling; steam until cooked but still moist, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Ladle pea mixture into soup bowls and garnish with steamed whitefish, a few fresh peas, and parsley leaves. Serves 4.
source: "Eigensinn Farm", alive #310, August 2008
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.