I love creamy pastas like fettuccine Alfredo, but I also love the spices and flavors of Asian cuisine. I decided to meld my two loves into one creamy and comforting yet bold and spicy dish that revolves around my greatest love of all—matcha!
To press your tofu, wrap it tightly in kitchen or paper towels and place a heavy object (i.e., a can of coconut milk or a few cookbooks) on top. Let sit for about 20 minutes while excess water is released from the tofu. Unwrap and cut into the size called for in the recipe. Now your tofu is ready to soak up all the juices and flavors of your dish!
The creamy matcha sauce can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Use gluten-free soba noodles and gluten-free tamari.
Soak the nuts overnight or in boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain them before blending. This will soften them and ensure a silky-smooth cream once blended.
Per serving:
Bring large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add noodles and cook according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Return noodles to pot, off heat.
Make the matcha sauce: In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. When it shimmers, add onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant. Transfer mixture to blender, reserving skillet for later use. Add cashews, water, maple syrup, lemon juice, salt and matcha. Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes, until very smooth.
Meanwhile, make the tofu: In reserved skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. When it shimmers, add tofu and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, until golden all over. Add tamari, maple syrup and sriracha, reduce heat to medium and cook for about 5 minutes, until tofu is evenly coated and sauce has thickened.
Over low heat, add sauce to pot of noodles and toss to coat, about 2 minutes, until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning. Top each serving with tofu nuggets, scallions and sesame seeds.
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.
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.