The taproot of the young burdock plant is more commonly consumed in European and Asian diets, where it is known as the gobo root. Try it as a nice addition to any regional plate.
Salad
1 wild burdock root, thinly sliced
1 cup (250 mL) water
1 tsp (5 mL) white vinegar
1 Tbsp (15 mL) sunflower oil
1 tsp (5 mL) maple syrup
5 cups (1.25 L) wild dandelion greens, rinsed and dried
2 tsp (10 mL) toasted hemp seeds, for garnish
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Vinaigrette
1 Tbsp (15 mL) hempseed oil
1 1/2 Tbsp (22 mL) cider vinegar
2 shallots, finely chopped
1/2 bunch chives, finely chopped
1 tsp (5 mL) Dijon mustard
Maple syrup to taste
Scrub and peel burdock root and cut into fine julienne. Combine vinegar and water in medium bowl, add burdock, and soak 10 minutes to remove bitterness. Drain burdock and saut in sunflower oil over medium heat; add maple syrup and cook 2 to 3 minutes, until burdock caramelizes but remains crunchy. Spoon burdock over dandelion leaves. Taste and lightly season with salt and pepper.
Combine vinaigrette ingredients and spoon onto salad. Garnish with toasted hemp seeds.
Serves 4.
source: "Eigensinn Farm", alive #310, August 2008
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.