Close your eyes, take in a forkful of this Asian-inspired salad, and you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’re feasting at an Asian street market. Seared over an open flame, tofu turns meaty and, dare we say, crave-worthy, while the crispy edges of bok choy are a special treat.
For gluten-free noodles, look for soba made with 100 percent buckwheat, or use wide brown rice noodles.
Per serving:
Cook soba noodles according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Drain.
Build a medium-hot fire in charcoal grill, or heat gas grill to medium-high and grease grill grates.
Line cutting board with a couple of sheets of paper towel. Top with tofu and a couple more sheets of towel. Place another cutting board or other flat object on top and press gently to extract excess liquid from tofu. Turn tofu blocks on their sides and slice in half lengthwise. Lightly brush tofu with 1/2 tsp (2 mL) oil and season with salt and black pepper, if using.
Grill tofu squares until golden and grill marks appear, about 4 minutes per side. Remove from grill and, when cool enough to handle, slice tofu into 1 in (2.5 cm) cubes.
Lightly brush bok choy with 1/2 tsp (2 mL) oil. Place on grill grates and heat until stalks are tender and leaves begin to darken and turn crispy.
In small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, remaining 2 tsp (10 mL) sesame oil, fish sauce (if using), Sriracha, sugar, shallot, and garlic.
Divide soba noodles among 4 serving plates and top with carrot, tofu, bok choy, cilantro, mint, and peanuts. Drizzle dressing overtop.
A pressing matterPressing out excess water from tofu allows it to get a better sear on the grill. And that means a whole lot more flavour.
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.