Lemony sorrel and white wine add a delicious tang to this up-styled leek and potato soup. If you can’t find sorrel, use spinach, nettle, or Swiss chard with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. The almond cream is optional, but it makes for a pretty presentation. Skip it if you have an allergy or low-powered blender.
Choose a dry wine so there’s no obvious taste of residual sugar in the soup. If you prefer not to use wine, use 5 cups (1.25 L) vegetable broth instead of four.
Per serving:
In small bowl, soak almonds in 1 cup (250 mL) water for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours. Drain almonds and remove skins. In blender, purée with 3 Tbsp (45 mL) water until smooth. Reserve purée, and rinse blender.
In large pot, add olive oil and sauté leek for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add white wine (if using) followed by broth, bay leaf, potatoes, parsley stems, and sorrel. Cover, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove bay leaf. Transfer to blender (or use immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper if desired.
To serve, divide soup among bowls and swirl 2 tsp (10 mL) almond cream into each serving. Garnish with remaining parsley leaves.
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.