For those who cannot or choose not to eat dairy or gluten, and even for those who can, this vegan chocolate pumpkin pie is the answer to the chocolate-covered good life. The pumpkin flavour is barely detected, instead acting as a structural backbone for the pudding. And, pumpkin provides antiaging skin support thanks to its high vitamin A content.
Store squash and pumpkin in a dark, cool place away from direct sunlight for 2 to 3 months.
Orange zest, espresso powder, peppermint, or any other chocolate flavour pairing you can dream up may be added to the filling.
Per serving:
For crust, preheat oven to 350 F (180 C). Place 8 to 10 in (20 to 26 cm) removable bottom tart tin on large rimmed baking sheet. In food processor or blender, blend oats, almonds, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until coarse meal forms. Pulse in coconut oil until fully combined and a loose dough is formed. Firmly press dough into tart tin, including up the sides. Bake for 15 minutes. Cool completely. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.
For pudding, in medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk milk, pumpkin, chocolate, arrowroot, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk constantly until chocolate is melted (about 5 minutes). Continue to whisk for 8 to 10 minutes, until mixture begins to thicken and large bubbles start to pop on top. Once thick and bubbling, continue to whisk for 1 to 2 minutes longer. Strain through fine sieve into large bowl. Stir in vanilla. Cover with plastic wrap directly over surface. Cool to room temperature (do not refrigerate until poured into the crust).
To assemble, whisk cooled pudding mixture until smooth and pour into prepared, cooled crust. Smooth out top and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or up to 1 day. Garnish with pomegranate, cranberry, or almonds; slice and serve chilled.
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.