tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11765610619239415832024-03-13T06:04:46.813-07:00An Amateur Vegan ChefBrittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-70991869672148689642012-03-12T23:08:00.001-07:002012-03-12T23:35:01.749-07:00Sweet Potato Burgers -- Thank you Pinterest!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-05YnEcB78rI/T17ZaMHw02I/AAAAAAAAAgw/ynol0uydh20/s1600/sweet+potato+13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-05YnEcB78rI/T17ZaMHw02I/AAAAAAAAAgw/ynol0uydh20/s400/sweet+potato+13.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
OMG. That's all I have to say about tonight's dinner. This is seriously one of the best meals I've made in a long time and I have Pinterest to thank for it. THANK YOU PINTEREST!! I've talked about www.pinterest.com before but in case you missed it, you need to go check it out. <br />
<br />
Like now! On second thought, not yet, finish reading first..then go go go!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3jRfcANnlGA/T17joKpklfI/AAAAAAAAAg4/nLWWLIjvuwI/s1600/sweet+potato5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3jRfcANnlGA/T17joKpklfI/AAAAAAAAAg4/nLWWLIjvuwI/s400/sweet+potato5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
This is the kind of food I crave and can't get enough of. Whole, fresh ingredients, all natural, home made, satisfying, delicious and not to mention good for you!<br />
<br />
Don't take my word for it...go get in your kitchen and try this!! Even if you're unsure about the ingredients...do it!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X2v-lQU5rUs/T17jx016_0I/AAAAAAAAAhA/dqZ0dJbTTRQ/s1600/sweet+potato6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X2v-lQU5rUs/T17jx016_0I/AAAAAAAAAhA/dqZ0dJbTTRQ/s400/sweet+potato6.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I would try to describe it to you but it wouldn't do any justice. <br />
<br />
You can find the original genius of a <a href="http://kblog.lunchboxbunch.com/2012/02/easy-sweet-potato-veggie-burgers-with.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%253A+KathysBlogHealthyHappyLife+%2528Kathy%2527s+Blog%253A+Healthy.+Happy.+Life.%2529">recipe here</a>. <br />
<br />
<i><u>Sweet Potato Burgers</u></i><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
1 Large Sweet Potato<br />
2 cans of white beans<br />
2 Tablespoon tahini<br />
1 teaspoon maple or agave syrup<br />
1 teaspoon of cajun seasoning<br />
1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast flakes<br />
Few dashes of cayenne<br />
Pepper to taste<br />
1/4 cup of flour<br />
Breadcrumbs to coat the burger<br />
<br />
<i><u>Burger toppings *</u></i><br />
Whole wheat bun<br />
Your favorite mustard<br />
Sliced onion<br />
Finely chopped hot pepper<br />
Spritz of olive oil (I use my handy misto)<br />
Pepper<br />
Lettuce of choice<br />
<br />
<i><u>Instructions</u></i><br />
<i><u><br />
</u></i><br />
1. Bake then peel sweet potato, add to large bowl. *<br />
2. Add 2 cans of drained white beans to bowl with the sweet potato and mash together. *<br />
4. Add in all remaining ingredients until mixed together well. The mixture will be extremely moist. You can add more flour or add breadcrumbs or dried rice but I just worked with it. Although it was very sticky I was still able to make a patty. <br />
5. Heat oil of choice in pan while you start to form your patties<br />
6. Get a shallow bowl or plate and layer with breadcrumbs<br />
7. Form patty and generously coat with breadcrumbs on each side, then drop in the oil. Cook on both sides until well done. <br />
8. Assemble burger and devour!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6XFph3HdfiA/T17j9B4yE7I/AAAAAAAAAhI/o81RgiIYyDA/s1600/sweet+potato+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6XFph3HdfiA/T17j9B4yE7I/AAAAAAAAAhI/o81RgiIYyDA/s400/sweet+potato+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
**Tips<br />
- For baking sweet potato spritz with olive oil misto and bake at 350 for about 45 minutes until soft.<br />
- I found it easiest to "peel" the potato by cutting in half and scooping out the flesh. It pulls away from the skin easily while hot.<br />
- I again found it easiest to use a fork to mash together the white beans and sweet potato. This might sound funny but I started with an outer ring and smashed the mixture up against the side of the bowl. I used my right hand to smash while I twirled the bowl around with my left. I kept going until that "ring" was all smashed, then I would bring in more beans from the mixture until everything was mashed while I continued to twirl around the bowl. <br />
- These toppings are just what the original called for. There are so many other variations so feel free to experiment and use what you have. The original also called for avocado which I would have used if the one I bought from the store wasn't rotten on the inside. It was still great without it though! A nice sliced tomato would have been great on this too but I didn't have any. <br />
- I also made a "dip" or condiment to go with the burger of ketchup and sriracha. Heavenly! <br />
- My stove top is tiny along with my cookware. So I had to cook one burger at a time. If you find yourself in the same predicament I turned the oven off after baking the sweet potato but it was still warm so I stuck the cooked burgers in the oven to keep warm while the others cooked. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5d62jEEw4ds/T17kEUByZxI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/X1MgdPTngfs/s1600/sweet+potato1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5d62jEEw4ds/T17kEUByZxI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/X1MgdPTngfs/s400/sweet+potato1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I'm also really excited about this recipe because it's SOO adaptable. I already have a million other ideas I want to try with this recipe:<br />
<br />
--- Making smaller bite size to make them like "nuggets". Great kiddie food!!<br />
--- BBQ them on the grill with sweet BBQ sauce and grilled corn<br />
--- Use these for my all time <u>fav</u> burger toppings, grilled pineapple, jalapeños, red onions and teriyaki sauce<br />
--- The list goes on....<br />
<br />
The recipe made about 7-8 patties. Since it's just me and my husband I didn't need that many. I cooked about 3 and am freezing the rest. Hopefully they keep well! This is an easy recipe to follow and even easier to use after frozen for a quick meal on the run. <br />
<br />
I know I'm sure you're all happy to see me on two days in a row!! I have to admit life has been slowly settling down. I still have a lot on my plate but I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can feel I'm going to make it through which has been amazing for my stress level, and by the looks of it, my blog! <br />
<br />
Plus my problems don't compare to so many out there suffering. If you ever want to watch a great inspirational video to put life into perspective watch this video made by Artists for Haiti, "We are the World". <br />
<br />
So stay tuned, I hope to come back with more yummy recipes! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-38758037026082120442012-03-11T20:45:00.000-07:002012-03-11T20:45:21.171-07:00Sunomono Salad & Trader Joe's Gyoza<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-acAgwTq9X34/T11qUS5w3UI/AAAAAAAAAgg/zmOi1Ska9Mo/s1600/japanese+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-acAgwTq9X34/T11qUS5w3UI/AAAAAAAAAgg/zmOi1Ska9Mo/s400/japanese+2.JPG" width="400" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
When I was a younger I was a very typical child. I disliked all vegetables. When I say all I mean ALL. <br />
<br />
A lot has changed since then. Who would have figured I would end up being vegan and have a diet full of vegetables.<br />
<br />
Cucumbers was one of those vegetables that I despised and I've only recently come to love. With that love came Sunomono salad. If you're going to eat cucumbers this is the way to do it! It's so simple and easy. It's a japanese salad made of thinly sliced cucumbers and a vinegar dressing. <br />
<br />
If you've ever had Sunomono salad at Mikuni's this recipe tastes JUST like it! I found the <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/sunomono-recipe/index.html">original here</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBkeHTiiFEE/T11w0ET5MuI/AAAAAAAAAgo/LU9NNrF0mog/s1600/japanese+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBkeHTiiFEE/T11w0ET5MuI/AAAAAAAAAgo/LU9NNrF0mog/s400/japanese+1.JPG" width="400" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
<em><u>Sunomono Salad</u></em><br />
<br />
1 Large cucumber<br />
1 Teaspoon of salt<br />
2 Tablespoons of Rice Vinegar<br />
1 Tablespoon of sugar<br />
1 drop of soy sauce<br />
<br />
<em><u>Directions</u></em><br />
<br />
1. Thinly slice the cucumber <br />
2. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let sit for a few minutes <br />
3. Mix the vinegar, sugar and soy sauce and mix well<br />
4. Add the dressing on top of the cucumbers and serve! <br />
<br />
It goes without saying I love my mom! She isn't vegan like myself but is always looking for recipes/products that i can eat. Her most recent find was a great one. Trader Joe's Thai vegetable Gyoza. They come in the frozen section. Serve with sweet chili sauce. I love Trader Joe's. They always have great products. Why I don't shop there more often is beyond me. <br />
<br />
These were the perfect addition to my Sunomono Salad and fried rice. 'Till next time. <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-7196615053031548322012-02-13T18:02:00.000-08:002012-02-13T18:02:22.809-08:00Potatoes and Black Bean Taco with SWISS CHARD PESTO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-698IObPY5fk/Tzm5cH4hYCI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/rt7XKI9Fu_o/s1600/Swiss+chard+Pesto+tacos.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-698IObPY5fk/Tzm5cH4hYCI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/rt7XKI9Fu_o/s640/Swiss+chard+Pesto+tacos.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
The Swiss Chard pesto is in CAPS because ...well...it's amazing! Forgot my leftovers at my parents and debating to take the hour trip to go get them amazing! <br />
<br />
I don't recall how I happened upon <a href="http://bevcooks.com/2012/01/black-bean-and-sweet-potato-tacos-with-swiss-chard-pesto/">this recipe</a> but I sure am glad I did. I've been saving it for a day when I would have the time to cook a meal at my parents. My dad is growing swiss chard in his garden this year and I needed an excuse to use it. Seriously I can't say it enough, it's really good! The taste is unexpected, refreshing, with a hint of spice. What else can I say to make you run out and make this? <br />
<br />
I made a few adjustments to the original with what I had on hand. See below my adapted version. I'm sure the original is just as amazing if not better. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4U1zTDQb3fo/TznAjo5dHQI/AAAAAAAAAgY/QU2W7GR1tUA/s1600/swiss+chard+pesto+tacos2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4U1zTDQb3fo/TznAjo5dHQI/AAAAAAAAAgY/QU2W7GR1tUA/s640/swiss+chard+pesto+tacos2.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
<em><u>Swiss Chard Pesto:</u></em><br />
<br />
1 Bnnch of swiss chard washed/cut into chunks<br />
1 handful of chopped frozen pasilla chili (I normally go for a spicier pepper like the recipe calls for but I didn't have any on hand)<br />
3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped<br />
2 Tbs. Tapatio Hot Sauce<br />
1/4 cup walnuts<br />
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil<br />
coarse salt and freshly ground pepper<br />
<br />
<em><u>For the Tacos:</u></em><br />
<br />
1 T extra virgin olive oil<br />
1 (to 2 depending on the size) regular potato, cut into a medium dice<br />
1 (14.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed<br />
2 tsp cumin, divided<br />
2 tsp chili powder, divided<br />
1/2 tsp garlic salt<br />
Tortillas of choice (I used the kind you have to cook on the stove)<br />
lime and cilantro for garnish<br />
coarse salt and freshly ground pepper<br />
*Optional: Diced avocado. I would have used if I had one<br />
<br />
<em><u>Directions:</u></em><br />
<br />
1. Preheat the oven to 400*<br />
2. On a baking sheet mix the potatoes, olive oil, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, and salt/pepper. Bake for 30 minutes.<br />
3. Meanwhile make your pesto. Throw all of the ingredients into a food processor, minus the olive oil. Get the motor running (tell me you just sang that in your head...you know you can't resist!) and add the olive oil in a steady stream until a pesto is made. I have a small food processor so I had to do mine in steps. I didn't add all of the ingredients right away. I mixed a little, mixed it around with my spoon so everything was at the bottom again, then added to it. <br />
4. Heat your black beans, remaining cumin and chili powder along with garlic salt. Heat until cooked through (about 5 minutes). <br />
5. Cook/heat your tortillas<br />
6. Assemble: Start with a tortilla, spread with beans, potatoes, pesto, chopped cilantro and fresh squeezed lime to taste. I used at least 2 Tablespoons of pesto per tortilla. The more the better. <br />
<br />
Y'all be coming back to thank me for sharing this awesome recipe with you later...I guarantee it! <br />
<br />
I know I don't need a disclaimer (but God knows I'm full of them these days) but please forgive me if I'm sparse in my posts. Without going into details I have a ton of stuff going on in my life right now that has my body and brain exhausted at the end of the day. I'm sure I'll be back to normal soon so bare with me! I do promise not to keep any awesome recipes from you (like this one). <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-53269293587555500662012-01-20T22:51:00.000-08:002012-01-20T22:51:10.190-08:00White Bean Galore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw_po4zMy-Y/TxpBzsL0-GI/AAAAAAAAAfo/YzXN8tcuht0/s1600/216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw_po4zMy-Y/TxpBzsL0-GI/AAAAAAAAAfo/YzXN8tcuht0/s640/216.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
When I made the gumbo last week I was originally going to add white beans. I started cooking a bag of dried white beans and by the time I realized the gumbo didn't need beans they were already half way through cooking. After that I knew what I would be eating for awhile. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bEu3HFu4CFQ/TxpV0sIY8zI/AAAAAAAAAfw/Lr0prrnY0_g/s1600/218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bEu3HFu4CFQ/TxpV0sIY8zI/AAAAAAAAAfw/Lr0prrnY0_g/s640/218.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RtOV1vtznrg/TxpV32M5uZI/AAAAAAAAAf4/NtdM9tS5V8I/s1600/222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RtOV1vtznrg/TxpV32M5uZI/AAAAAAAAAf4/NtdM9tS5V8I/s640/222.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
There is a restaraunt by me that sells white bean and artichoke bean dip with olive tapenade. Its super yummy! I knew one day when I had an abundance of white beans that this is exactly what I was going to do with them. I found plenty of recipes online for artichoke white bean dip. Some call for cheese, which is easily left out. I found <a href="http://www.sproutandpea.com/2010/10/spicy-white-bean-artichoke-dip/">this recipe from the Sprout and Pea blog</a>. I made a few adjustments to it based on what I had. Kalamata olives are my favorite so I went with a kalamata olive tapenade to top it off. I found <a href="http://www.mylifeasamrs.com/2011/07/kalamata-olive-tapenade.html">this recipe from My Life as a Mrs. Blog</a>. Both came out great. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4mL_6Wm_RFY/Txpczx6UN-I/AAAAAAAAAgI/NqeoSczVebE/s1600/234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4mL_6Wm_RFY/Txpczx6UN-I/AAAAAAAAAgI/NqeoSczVebE/s640/234.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
The spread is good on top of crackers or toasty bread. I even came up with a yummy sandwich. I spread vegan butter on two slices of bread. Heat a panini press, George Foreman Grill, or pan on the stove top. Put butter side down on the grill. Spread the one slice of the bread with the white bean/artichoke dip, top with the kalamata olive tapenade. Add a slice of vegan cheese and spinach. Top with the second piece of bread. And Grill. Delicioius! Those lovely onion rings next to the sammy came from a recipe <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/275634439663536338/">I found on pinterest</a>. They were super easy to make. My only advice is when you dip the onion rings in the batter lightly shake the rings to get excess batter off. Then when you dip in the bread crumbs lightly dip once on each side. This will help keep the bread crumbs from getting clumpy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9u2KJ_lDmpk/TxpWlkWcUPI/AAAAAAAAAgA/knYNObqqKtg/s1600/229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9u2KJ_lDmpk/TxpWlkWcUPI/AAAAAAAAAgA/knYNObqqKtg/s640/229.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I still had a ton of white beans left and <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/275634439663620281/">I found yet another recipe on Pinterest</a>. I left out the cheese of course. It was good but needed a lot of seasoning. I even took a tablespoon or so of the olive tapenade and mixed it in with the soup and it was surprisingly delicious. It was a good hot soup for a cold winters day. <br />
<br />
I didn't take any pictures but I also made a white bean chili. <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/275634439663611164/">Here is the link for the recipe</a>. It was a quick and easy chili when you need something in a rush. Thought I'd share for those who need aquick chili recipe. <br />
<br />
That is all for now. Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-56877396997092900572012-01-09T20:35:00.000-08:002012-01-09T20:35:38.865-08:00Vegetarian Okra Gumbo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAjyF_nGNGQ/TwuozfUMR7I/AAAAAAAAAe4/NF9DSvr6A5U/s1600/photo5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAjyF_nGNGQ/TwuozfUMR7I/AAAAAAAAAe4/NF9DSvr6A5U/s640/photo5.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Hello Blog world!! So much has happened in the last few months I don't even know where to start. My last post in November before Thanksgiving was like the calm before the storm. My life has been some what of a whirl wind these past few months and life is finally settling down. Some good and some bad whirl wind. <br />
<br />
I'll try to catch everyone up on the goingson in my life without boring you with too many details. My husband, parents and Bella took a road trip for Thanksgiving up to Utah to visit my Uncle, Aunt and Cousin. It was a great trip. In the scheme of things they are the closest relatives by far and we don't see them often enough. After that we can home for just a few short weeks and the incomprehensible happened, my grandmother passed away. She was an AMAZING woman who has created such a legacy. She's one of those people that I naively thought would be here forever. Her passing was hard on all of us, but we all gathered back home in New Orleans to celebrate her life and enjoy the memories she left behind. I'm so grateful I was able to go home. Staying at her house was like a blanket. It was comfortable and warm with not only her memories but the family that gathered there. <br />
<br />
After returning home we had just a week before Christmas. My head was still spinning with everything that had just happened, but I was able to gather my bearings and get ready for Christmas. Baking cookies for work, white elephant gift exchange party, finishing last minute christmas gift purchases, while still working full time. In the meantime my sister from Austin flew in and stayed for two weeks. It was (like always) so nice to have her around. Meg if you're reading COME HOME!! :) Christmas and New Years came and went full of family time, taking trips, cooking, watching movies, the works! Needless to say it was quite a crazy end of the year and start to 2012. We've already attended one birthday party (for my awesome sister in law I may add!) and one to go. I have a feeling this year is going to fly by. My resolution to hold onto every day. Enjoy the hear and now without wishing for time to speed up. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FsJNVI6lwdE/Twux04gyk5I/AAAAAAAAAfA/vN71NdRCvmc/s1600/photo1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FsJNVI6lwdE/Twux04gyk5I/AAAAAAAAAfA/vN71NdRCvmc/s640/photo1.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I know I know...I've written a novel already and I haven't even gotten to the recipe! So my mom found me some delicous fresh okra at the farmers market. I never find okra in the super market or even at farmers market for that reason so I was very excited to have some fresh!! I HAD to make a gumbo. There really wasn't a choice. To save on time my parents use a Richard's Cajun Roux that comes from a jar. A side cajun lesson. Richard in Richard's Cajun Roux is pronounced REE-SHAUD. Roux is the base of the gumbo. We typically make it by hand but it was already getting late so I went the lazy route. Roux can take hours to make. You have to cook oil and flour over the stove and constantly stir until it gets really dark. If you stop stirring it will burn. It's not very difficult, just a time consuming process. So if you are like me and looking for a short cut this is the way to go. Only problem is not all of you will be able to buy it in the store. We typically pick ours up when we're back in New Orleans. You may be able to find it in some specialties stores like World Market or the speciaility aisle of your grocer. If you can't buy it in the store you can always make it by hand. Enlist a friend to help stir. The outcome will be WELL worth it. If you've never eaten gumbo you haven't lived yet. :) <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77JVBkZWExM/TwuyzEF9-hI/AAAAAAAAAfI/h7jIAdAgl60/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77JVBkZWExM/TwuyzEF9-hI/AAAAAAAAAfI/h7jIAdAgl60/s640/photo.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Another tip about the roux. The oil settles at the top. The easiest way is to dump everything into a bowl and stir until you get a uniform consistency like above. You won't use the whole jar for one batch (unless you're feeding an army) so just spoon it back in the left overs. Below is the recipe I came up with based on our families tradition, my past attempts and many online recipes that I made into my own. Feel free to search out there for other variations. There are plenty out there, but this is my favorite. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pmq9JuKEW5g/Twuz2swvXJI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/BUB2-rdj56k/s1600/photo2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pmq9JuKEW5g/Twuz2swvXJI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/BUB2-rdj56k/s640/photo2.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
1-1 1/2 Tablespoons of olive oil<br />
1 Medium Onion chopped<br />
3-4 Stalks of Celery chopped<br />
1-2 Green or Red Bell Peppers (or a mixture of both)<br />
3-4 Cloves of garlic minced<br />
Approximately 14-15 fresh okra pods (I used about half of what is shown above)<br />
1 can of diced tomatoes with the juice (I used a onion/garlic mix, but you can use regular, with green chili's, whatever you have on hand)<br />
1 teaspoon of cajun seasoning. Start here and add more if desired, I usually add a little more<br />
A few dashs of Louisiana hot sauce. Crystal is my favorite. <br />
Salt/Pepper to taste<br />
A few dashes of cayenne pepper<br />
6 Tablespoons of pre-made roux<br />
*or heat 3 T of Oil and 3 T of Flour over medium heat to make a roux. <u>Constantly</u> stir until it is a dark brown in color. Be careful not to burn it! <br />
4 Cups of water<br />
White or Brown rice<br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Start cooking rice depending on how many people you are feeding.<br />
2. If using a pre-made roux start here, if making from scratch start making the roux now in a separate pot (directions above). Heat olive oil in a large pot, add onion, celery, bell peppers, and garlic. Saute until the veggies are soft and onions translucent. <br />
3. Slice okra, discard stem and end. Add to pot with the other veggies along with the can of tomatoes (with juice), and spices. Saute until the okra is soft, not mushy just soft. <br />
4. Add roux and water to the pot. Stir everything together until the roux is completely dissolved in the water. Continue to cook for about 20 minutes or so on simmer. Your rice should be done by now. <br />
5. In each individual bowl put a little bit of rice a lot of gumbo, top with salt if needed, a few dashes of hot sauce and file (e with an accent, pronounced FEE-LAY). <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2rkwXGC-LyA/Twu_zFOxF3I/AAAAAAAAAfY/IMYiCtbfBAc/s1600/photo3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2rkwXGC-LyA/Twu_zFOxF3I/AAAAAAAAAfY/IMYiCtbfBAc/s640/photo3.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWjGpWMFWBI/Twu_1QnwCUI/AAAAAAAAAfg/gXwlLI-A8Nc/s1600/photo4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWjGpWMFWBI/Twu_1QnwCUI/AAAAAAAAAfg/gXwlLI-A8Nc/s640/photo4.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
TIP: The roux tasted a little burnt when I first made it. If you add a little water and make sure it's well seasoned with salt and cajun seasoning it should remidy that. I think the batch of roux I got was a little darker than normal.<br />
<br />
Sorry for the long post. My life is hopefully settling down and maybe I'll get a chance to come back to regular blogging. <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-24075584869796221672011-11-17T18:46:00.000-08:002011-11-17T18:46:28.674-08:00Cajun White Bean and Okra Stew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pEgEaPllUwo/TsXCjq29ZnI/AAAAAAAAAew/iQQBIjg2hZc/s1600/whitebeanstew.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pEgEaPllUwo/TsXCjq29ZnI/AAAAAAAAAew/iQQBIjg2hZc/s640/whitebeanstew.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I call this Cajun White Bean and Okra Stew. It's really just a twist to my age old black eyed pea recipe and needed a much cooler name. I was hungry for something hearty, filling, and warm to go with the cold weather. I was out of black eyed peas so I went with white beans and it turned out great! <br />
<br />
1 Can of white beans<br />
1/2 white onion chopped<br />
3 cloves of garlic minced<br />
2 stalks of celery thinly sliced<br />
1 tomato chopped (you can add more or leave this out. I had one tomato that needed to be used so I through it in)<br />
Frozen Okra I threw in a few handfuls, add to taste<br />
approximately 2-3 tablespoons of Zatarain's bean seasoning<br />
a few shakes of cajun seasoning (I use slap ya mama)<br />
A dash of cayenne pepper<br />
**optional:<br />
A few tablespoons (to taste) of nutritinoal yeast<br />
Add a few drops of hot sauce to each bowl (I like Louisiana Hot Sauce for this)<br />
1 cup of brown rice<br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Start cooking your rice in a rice cooker<br />
2. Heat a little bit of oil in a pot. Add the onions, garlic and celery and heat until the onions are translucent. <br />
3. Add in the tomato, okra and can of beans. Do not rinse the beans. Fill the empty can with water and add that to the pot. Depending on how "soupy" you want it you can add more or less water at this time. <br />
4. Add in all seasoning. Simmer on medium-low until the rice is done cooking. Serve on top of rice with added hot sauce or vegan parmesan. <br />
<br />
<br />
This recipe is easily adaptable to what you have. Bell pepper and/or a spicy peper is a nice addition as well. You can use vegan butter instead of the oil. Melt that and add in a few tablespoons of flour to make a roux. That will make a nice thick "stew" that is more of a gumbo. You can substitue the tomato for a can of diced tomatoes. You might want to add less water depending on your taste. Have fun with it! <br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-68276505478256496222011-11-07T20:22:00.000-08:002011-11-07T20:22:45.238-08:00HALLLLOOOWEEENN: Vampire Bite Red Velvet Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSPpHtDwZ4I/TripnRWkOII/AAAAAAAAAeI/phASrn3yh_A/s1600/IMG_3570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSPpHtDwZ4I/TripnRWkOII/AAAAAAAAAeI/phASrn3yh_A/s640/IMG_3570.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
If you remember from last year my department at work throws a "party" for halloween. We all make yummy halloween inspired treats for the whole office. I work downtown and our office is a part of a trick or treat for kids. So in the afternoon a bunch of the cutest kids around come by trick or treating for candy. So we all dress up in our costumes and hand out candy. We still have to work but it makes for a fun filled day. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pnwO9TIWhxY/TrirPfxQFQI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/SPSTxsAHahE/s1600/IMG_3569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pnwO9TIWhxY/TrirPfxQFQI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/SPSTxsAHahE/s640/IMG_3569.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This year I made vampire bite red velvet cupcakes. The idea came from my coworker. They turned out great!! I've made the red velvet cupcakes before (if you remember from my dinner with friends). You can find the recipe <a href="http://kathrynlovett.com/2010/12/12/sunday-cheesy-tvp-enchiladas-and-vegan-red-velvet-cupcakes/">here from Kathryn Lovett's Blog</a>. I follow the recipe exact, except I didn't need to use 3 T of red food coloring, more like 1 to 1 1/2 T. I made the icing from the recipe as well and added a little more powdered sugar so it was a bit thicker. After the cupcakes were baked, cooled and frosted I stuck a thick toothpick (the kind that looks more like a fork with two prongs) in to make two "bite" marks. I took just a little bit of the frosting and added some red food coloring to make it red. Then took the toothpick and frosted a little line under the bite mark to look like blood. They were amazingly easy and soo delicious. My coworkers didn't even realize they were vegan and my family loved them! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4H6xiV-Eko/TrirYFIph2I/AAAAAAAAAeY/XPz8LEzVqo8/s1600/IMG_3572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4H6xiV-Eko/TrirYFIph2I/AAAAAAAAAeY/XPz8LEzVqo8/s640/IMG_3572.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also made the roasted red pepper and artichoke dip that I usually make for the holidays. It's one of my all time favorites and everyone always raves about it. I should have doubled the recipe because it was almost gone before we even had lunch! You can find the recipe <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/hot-artichoke-and-roasted-red-pepper-dip-vegan-325491">here from food.com</a>. I follow it exactly. Other than the chips I served with this dish (they were shaped like pumpinks, bats and ghosts) this dish wasn't really halloween inspired, but rather matched my costume. I was a 50s housewife. The corningware and crochet pot holder fit the bill. Here's me in my costume. Not the best photo, I wasn't even looking at the camera. LOL. You can't tell but I even have victory rolls in my hair. I wish I could wear this look everyday! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D0a4nm1yr84/TrituN1XpxI/AAAAAAAAAeo/cQSD3iIaZLU/s1600/IMG_3574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D0a4nm1yr84/TrituN1XpxI/AAAAAAAAAeo/cQSD3iIaZLU/s640/IMG_3574.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know I'm a few days late, but I hope everyone enjoyed their halloween. I'm trying to get my office to do a themed halloween next year. Yay! Till next time! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-69630992904223665812011-11-07T19:58:00.000-08:002011-11-07T19:58:47.631-08:00Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cugmxvQTrb4/TriijHf9LuI/AAAAAAAAAdw/yRP1f2VT2R8/s1600/IMG_3555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cugmxvQTrb4/TriijHf9LuI/AAAAAAAAAdw/yRP1f2VT2R8/s640/IMG_3555.JPG" width="476" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'M BACK!!!! I know I'm sorry (you've heard me say a million times) for being MIA, but I honestly haven't had much mojo. I was cooking either things I've posted before, or things not worth posting. You know sometimes you just get in a funk and mine has lasted longer than I'd like. But I swear I'm back in the groove! I feel inspired and rejuvinated! If anyone hasn't heard or it or tried it out yet I encourage you to check out <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">http://www.pinterest.com/</a>. It is an AMAZING sight for you to "pin" things that you find on the web. It's kind of hard to explain but if your someone who is constantly "favoriting" (yes I just made that a word) sites that you like or want to come back to then Pinterest is the place for you. But let me forwarn you its 100% addicting. Side affects are hours of countless hours in front of the computer. By the time you look at the clock you will have lost a whole day! Said from experience. You can find my boards and I at <a href="http://pinterest.com/amateurvegnchef/">http://pinterest.com/amateurvegnchef/</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now onto the good stuff..FOOOODD!!! Fall weather was a little slow this year (I must have been on the good side of the Gods) but it's finally in full swing and freezing outside. The other day I was in the mood for some down home comfort food. I couldn't get tomato soup and grilled cheese out of my brain. It was perfect and hit the spot. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bm9IvRUgaq4/TrilJy8P2gI/AAAAAAAAAd4/yjXe39TfLxg/s1600/IMG_3557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bm9IvRUgaq4/TrilJy8P2gI/AAAAAAAAAd4/yjXe39TfLxg/s640/IMG_3557.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the grilled cheese (one of the easiest things to make by the way) I started with a great bread. I used two different breads for two different occasions both were amazing. The first is sprouted whole grain wheat bread with flax seed by Alvarado St. Bakery. It's tasty, and amazing for you and only 50 calories per slice! Pretty amazing. The second is Dave's Killer Bread. OMG. If you haven't seen it or tried it....look for it and try it!!! It's great! I used the Good Seed, with heavenly texture and saintly flavor. It has 4 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein and 610mg of omega 3's. It's organic and only has amazing ingredients. If you see it try his sinaroll. It's to die for. For the cheese I used my go to Daiya Pepperjack Shreds. As any normal grilled cheese butter the bread, heat a skillet and grill with the cheese. I went pretty simple but there are soooo many variations to take your grilled cheese to the next level. You can add veggies like tomato slices, roasted bell pepper, red onion...the possibilities are endless. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also wanted to mention a new product I've tried that I think will blow you all away. It's Tofutti brand american cheese slices. It's like the typical slice cheese in the little plastic wrapping. It tastes sooo amazing. Rich is convinced that it's real cheese in vegan wrapping (obviously not true, but a test to how amazing it is). It's sooo perfect for sandwichs! I love Daiya but sometimes the shreds get messy when I'm trying to put it on a sandwich. You can even use the slices for the grilled cheese. They melt amazing! So check it out next time your at the store! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V9teREEVEV4/TrinVpGFmJI/AAAAAAAAAeA/RAv-ZY4MQyo/s1600/IMG_3558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V9teREEVEV4/TrinVpGFmJI/AAAAAAAAAeA/RAv-ZY4MQyo/s640/IMG_3558.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Now for the tomato soup. I went pretty simple and easy for this as well. I based my recipe on that from <a href="http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2008/02/tomato-soup-with-roasted-garlic-and.html">Fat Free Vegan</a> (follow the link to the recipe). I made some adjustments. As you can see I didn't blend the soup so it was smooth. I wanted a more chunky soup so I just used a potato masher and mashed some of the soup. I also didn't have a can of crushed tomatoes so I used two cans of chopped tomatoes. I didn't use her brand of tomatoes just what I had in the cabinet. I left out the parsley and yogurt because I didn't have any, and didn't think it needed any agave. It was really tasty. I loved the roasted flavor from the tomatoes. It was the perfect soup to dip my grilled cheese in. This soup is going in the keep file. :) <br />
<br />
I hope I haven't lost all my readers and you'll come back for more recipes! To even make up for it I'm posting another blog here in a few minutes so stay tuned!!! Till next time! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-38967405900342123932011-09-21T19:11:00.000-07:002011-09-21T19:11:04.672-07:00LOTS of goodies!I have a ton of meals to catch y'all up on! So get ready for a long post. I'll try to make it interesting. Okay I don't really have any interesting stories but lots of photos!!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psG9RHSd84c/TnqPRn9DdPI/AAAAAAAAAdE/4RdTUowXqzY/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psG9RHSd84c/TnqPRn9DdPI/AAAAAAAAAdE/4RdTUowXqzY/s640/004.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Let's start with a review for Yves Vegan Grain Meat in a sweet chili thai sauce. I saw this at the store and thought it sounded good enough. I wasn't expecting much out of it as I'm pretty hard to please with this sort of thing. It was SOOOO good. I would eat it over and over again. It was super easy to make and it didn't taste fake or chewy. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GYfevzCxTJs/TnqRm772CiI/AAAAAAAAAdI/_M-jrrzpLp8/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GYfevzCxTJs/TnqRm772CiI/AAAAAAAAAdI/_M-jrrzpLp8/s640/002.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdXeB6y3HwQ/TnqRpDL2K1I/AAAAAAAAAdM/DwGgUo6Nwlg/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdXeB6y3HwQ/TnqRpDL2K1I/AAAAAAAAAdM/DwGgUo6Nwlg/s640/001.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
The top photo is how the packaging looks. It comes with the "meat" separate. You heat it in some oil until it gets golden brown. Then you add the sauce packet and cook for a few short seconds so it heats up and gets thick. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYfA1D9ZZXQ/TnqR6v0u0PI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/o-IzlkZQ1MQ/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYfA1D9ZZXQ/TnqR6v0u0PI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/o-IzlkZQ1MQ/s640/003.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I ate mine with quinoa, green beans and broccoli. Perfect meal when you need something quick! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j1xewXLC1Fg/TnqTsjKteQI/AAAAAAAAAdY/AQWFm3JBWPU/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j1xewXLC1Fg/TnqTsjKteQI/AAAAAAAAAdY/AQWFm3JBWPU/s640/005.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5MlV-XLIgI/TnqSKciE65I/AAAAAAAAAdU/dYtA8UGWTVc/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5MlV-XLIgI/TnqSKciE65I/AAAAAAAAAdU/dYtA8UGWTVc/s640/006.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
This next recipe I bookmarked awhile ago and kind of forgot about it. I'm glad I found it because it was delicious. It's from vegetarian times and you can find the recipe <a href="http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/11302">online here</a>. I followed the recipe except I didn't use coconut flakes, I didn't have any lime juice and I used canned pineapple instead of fresh. I topped this with quinoa (If you can tell I'm trying to stay away from too much pasta and rice. I also want to make sure I'm getting enough protein and trying to make sure I have some form in every meal). It needed some "sauce" so I topped it with sriracha and sweet chili sauce that I have in a jar (if you've never had any you need to..it's kinda of amazing). It was the perfect spice to add with the sweetness of the pineapple.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14X7GA26L40/TnqTzD8fdGI/AAAAAAAAAdc/pYSBHB-nGvM/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14X7GA26L40/TnqTzD8fdGI/AAAAAAAAAdc/pYSBHB-nGvM/s640/010.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
You probably won't beleive it but I made this amazing spinach risotto in the microwave with my pasta boat!!! Well it's not actually a pasta boat it's called pasta n more, but it comes with a recipe book and I figured what the heck let's give it a try. It was soooo easy and it came out perfect. Plus I didn't have to sweat over the stove forever to make this! I made some adjustments from the original recipe, so below is what I did<br />
<br />
2 Tablespoons of olive oil<br />
1 cup of chopped onions<br />
2 cloves of garlic (more if you'd like), chopped<br />
1 cup of uncooked arborio rice<br />
3 cups of <u>HOT</u> vegetable broth (so make sure to bring it to a slight boil before adding it)<br />
1/4 teaspoon of salt<br />
8 oz fresh spinach<br />
2 small zucchini cut into 1inch pieces<br />
About 1/2 lemon juice<br />
I didn't measure but about a tablespoon of agave nectar<br />
Dried rosemary maybe 1/2 tablespoon<br />
Italian seasoning mabe 1/2 - 1 tablespoon<br />
1/4 cup of vinegar (the original recipe called for 1/2 white wine, I didn't have any so I subbed this)<br />
<br />
1. Combine the olive oil, onion and garlic in the boat pot, place in microwave and cook on HIGH for 3 minutes<br />
2. Stir in the rice and broth and add salt, lemon juice, agave nectar, rosemary and italian seasoning, cover with the strainer lid and cook on HIGH For 6 minutes<br />
3. Uncover and stir in vinegar, zucchini, spinach and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the liquid boils off. <br />
4. Serve with Parma if desired. I also made a side of wax beans with similar seasonings as the risotto<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJKnqG2IqyA/TnqX_fPkWfI/AAAAAAAAAdg/7eEbxvS3R54/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJKnqG2IqyA/TnqX_fPkWfI/AAAAAAAAAdg/7eEbxvS3R54/s640/012.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Last but not least I had a wonderful spread a few weekends ago at my parents. My dad BBQd a spicy chicken patty for me. I cut it up and ate it on a roll with the fixings (lettuce, onion, tomato, pickle and BBQ sauce). Side of corn with salt and tapatio hot sauce, potatoes with rosemary, and BBQ veggies straight from the grill. Hopefully this isn't my last summer BBQ this year. All the halloween decorations at the stores are making me a little depressed. I feel like I was just talking about the being excited for summer and now it's almost gone.<br />
<br />
For now that is all...Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-82778806998858831392011-08-25T17:33:00.000-07:002011-08-25T17:33:31.892-07:00Tomato Cream Pasta with Zucchini Fries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qDr399u3nWs/Tlai6u4lYgI/AAAAAAAAAc0/5yh8g_yRKN8/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qDr399u3nWs/Tlai6u4lYgI/AAAAAAAAAc0/5yh8g_yRKN8/s640/003.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Thank GOD!!! I wrote this entire blog post and tried to post it earlier and thought I lost it. I was about to start typing again when I remember to look in the saved posts and there it was. That's exactly how you make Brittany's day. =) I present to you Tomato Cream Pasta and Zucchini fries!! I'm not sure how I stumbled onto this recipe but I'm lucky I did because it was SOOOO good. It was lick the bowl (and spoon, and pot) clean good! Follow <a href="http://dairyfreecooking.about.com/od/pastarecipes/r/tomcrempasta.htm">this link</a> to the recipe. I pretty much followed the recipe exactly except for a few minor changes:<br />
<br />
I added 1 anaheim chili, seeded and cut in small slices. I think adding the chili really made this recipe shine. As you all know I like a little spice. The chili wasn't very spicy at all, but it flavored the sauce sooo nicely. <br />
No chicken or faux meat was added, it didn't really need it<br />
For the basil/thyme/oregano I just used a pre-mix italian seasoning total to all three<br />
I used rice milk because that's what I had in the fridge<br />
Agave nectar for the honey<br />
and only 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7hbCGKwhRY/TlalBP1EHVI/AAAAAAAAAc4/jgu4ZeABx-c/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7hbCGKwhRY/TlalBP1EHVI/AAAAAAAAAc4/jgu4ZeABx-c/s640/002.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Like the intro said, don't be scared because of the ingredient list. This was pretty quick and so easy to make and if I haven't said so already sooooo delicious. Definitely a keeper. The only change I would make next time is using fusili pasta to "hold" the sauce better. The picture on the link looks so much better than mine. I also like my sauce's a little chunky so I wouuld sub one can of tomato sauce for a can of chopped tomatoes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C1QZk6v2HyU/TlalLyhcR7I/AAAAAAAAAc8/_XSoDLyyXJY/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C1QZk6v2HyU/TlalLyhcR7I/AAAAAAAAAc8/_XSoDLyyXJY/s640/001.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I had more than half of a pretty large zucchini left over from my parents garden and I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with it. I found a recipe for <a href="http://epicureanvegan.com/2010/01/21/baked-zucchini-fries-and-other-stuff/">zucchini fries</a> and they paired it with spaghetti. Once I started making the cream sauce it was like a match made in heaven to make the "fries". They were super easy to make and baked pretty quick. My only complaint was the breading didn't stick to the zucchini very well. I'm not sure if it had anything to do with it but I was out of lemon juice so I subbed half the amount for vinegar. They were still super declious and I felt better about eating them. I also didn't have breadcrumbs so I toasted a piece of bread and put them through the food processor until they were fine. I also used regular paprika and garlic powder not salt. All in all a pretty fab meal that came together soo nicely, even considering I cut my finger pretty bad trying to slice an onion. I thought my zucchini fries were a gonner. Husband wasn't home to get them out of the oven and I had to hold my finger with a towel to stop the bleeding. I was able to be Mrs. Mcguiver and rig the towel to stay on my finger while I saved the "fries". Pretty miraculous if I do say so myself. =)<br />
<br />
For dinner last night I made a stir fry with all kinds of yummy veggies like green beans, snap peas, carrots, red bell pepper, water chestnuts, baby corn and broccoli with my sweet and spicy sauce on top of quinoa. Those are some of my favorite meals, the quick, easy, nothing fancy...just a bunch of veggies over quinoa. Perfection really. Not much else to share today. I hope everyone has been creating awesome meals in their kitchen. If you ever have a great recipe I'd love to hear about it. You just might be featured in a blog! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler! Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-82415821394139639852011-08-23T12:47:00.000-07:002011-08-23T12:47:10.443-07:00BURGERS AND BIRTHDAYS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Avdi0U1ofr4/TlP_LPqTgSI/AAAAAAAAAcg/Dc8bPSTYQ4c/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Avdi0U1ofr4/TlP_LPqTgSI/AAAAAAAAAcg/Dc8bPSTYQ4c/s640/011.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d_RfKEjjINg/TlQApfxvMzI/AAAAAAAAAco/tIVEvBsILMs/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d_RfKEjjINg/TlQApfxvMzI/AAAAAAAAAco/tIVEvBsILMs/s640/009.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Birthday to ME! Watermelon Margarita</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Last week I celebrated my 25th birthday! Because I have such wonderful friends and family I was able to stretch it out for the whole weekend. That is me on my birthday, getting ready to go out for dinner and drinks with the hubby. =) For dinner I didn't want to cook so we went to Chevy's. I'm a pretty big fan of Chevy's. Their chips and salsa, margaritas and burritos are YUMMY! I get the veggie burrito with no sour cream or cheese. They chop up a ton of different veggies with black beans rice and this spicy red sauce. It was nice to get out of the kitchen. Over the weekend we went to the river with some friends and then to my parents for dinner on Sunday. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8k-TUNfZ6pE/TlQALzxdq9I/AAAAAAAAAck/-AA-MWRtRqo/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8k-TUNfZ6pE/TlQALzxdq9I/AAAAAAAAAck/-AA-MWRtRqo/s640/005.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Since my birthday fell on a weekday I was stuck in the office until 5. My wonderful co-worker brough me home-made vegan carrot cake cupcakes!! They were sooooo delicious! I took some leftovers to my family and they all loved them. She even made homemade "cream cheese" frosting. I'm pretty sure I've eaten like 50. LoL. She is going to get me the recipe so I can share with y'all. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lUB2UBXmXXY/TlQA80HBJfI/AAAAAAAAAcs/upj6VF67cxE/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lUB2UBXmXXY/TlQA80HBJfI/AAAAAAAAAcs/upj6VF67cxE/s640/006.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
My dad let me choose what I wanted him to cook for dinner. I was in the mood for some grilled veggies. We don't have a grill at my house (although I'm looking into getting one of those small ones I can fit on my porch) and my dad doesn't grill them very often either. I chopped up some red bell peppers, fresh zucchini and cucumber from the garden, an Heirloom tomato, onions and garlic. I should have done more garlic because it was sooooo delicous. ALL of the veggies were perfect. I chopped them pretty big, drizzled olive oil, salt/pepper and some cajun seasoning and my dad threw them on the grill with a veggie patty (covered in BBQ sauce). I topped my buger with all of the veggies and a slice of lettuce and it was perfect. We cooked some corn, a salad and chips and salsa as a side. The perfect summer meal. Thanks mom and dad for the wonderful food! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPViHBFcFlg/TlQBtwLOEmI/AAAAAAAAAcw/Xa-hsbe8CAI/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPViHBFcFlg/TlQBtwLOEmI/AAAAAAAAAcw/Xa-hsbe8CAI/s640/025.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
As a bonus I made some delicious vegan sloppy joes last night. I found the recipe from a blog I follow quite frequently, you can find <a href="http://kathrynlovett.com/2011/07/19/tuesday-pork-and-bean-sandwiches/">the link here</a>. I pretty much followed her recipe to the T. I added red bell peppers to the red onion and jalapeno. I didn't have cabbage so I just used a lettuce leaf. They were really good. The only thing it needed was hot sauce. I'm kind of addicted to hot sauce though, so I kind of put it on everything. It was hilarious, I went to the grocery store the other day and had to buy Tapatio hot sauce, Crystal Louisiana Hot Sauce, and Chipotle Tabasco Hot Sauce. We were out of each of them. I use each one for something different, totally different flavors. =) For the side of veggies I cooked green beans, red bel peppers and zucchini with salt/pepper and cajun seasoning. I drizzled some of the vinegar from the onions on top. All was perfect! <br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler! Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-18420001750357436812011-08-15T19:17:00.000-07:002011-08-15T19:17:18.866-07:00Tostada and Peppered "turkey" Sandwich<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2J5nxDkjVMg/TknK5_znQbI/AAAAAAAAAcU/xXbrJV0ZL6U/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" naa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2J5nxDkjVMg/TknK5_znQbI/AAAAAAAAAcU/xXbrJV0ZL6U/s640/002.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
A few months ago when we went to Texas my sister's boyfriend's mom made me an awesome tostada (knowing I was vegan and all). She topped it with homemade guac and texas caviar. It was delicious! I've never made tostada's at home, albeit it's pretty much the same as a flat taco. So the other day I figured that would be a perfect summer time meal! If you haven't noticed almost everything that I'm making has none to very limited cooking time on the stove or oven. It's been too hot to heat up the whole house with the stove. <br />
<br />
I used my famous refried beans recipe (Okay..Okay..It's not famous and yes it uses canned beans but...It's yummy), guacamole, fresh salsa and lettuce. I used lime, cilantro and the works in the guacamole and salsa so I didn't feel it needed more but you can definitely top with more of your favorites. This was sooo easy and tasty and my house was still nice and cool for me to relax in. <br />
<br />
Refried beans:<br />
1 can refriend beans<br />
Chopped onions to taste<br />
Chopped jalapeno to taste<br />
About a tablespoon or two of green and red taco sauce<br />
* Mix all ingredients and microwave until hot<br />
<br />
Guacamole (You will need to adjust amounts to taste/amount you need)<br />
1-2 Avacado depending on how much you want to make<br />
1 Lime, juiced<br />
Salt to taste<br />
Chopped cilantro<br />
Chopped tomato<br />
Chopped Jalapeno <br />
*Add everything in a bowl then mix together to desired consistency. <br />
<br />
Salsa:<br />
2 Large vine tomatoes<br />
Chopped cilantro<br />
Lime juice<br />
salt<br />
Jalapeno<br />
Onion<br />
Garlic<br />
*Roughly chop everything and put in a food processor. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g681jWzn8SY/TknQXAHqDqI/AAAAAAAAAcY/4D-OSFKZMrw/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" naa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g681jWzn8SY/TknQXAHqDqI/AAAAAAAAAcY/4D-OSFKZMrw/s640/007.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Because I'm feeling fancy I'm making this blog a two-fer!! This is more of a review/recipe. I follow another blog for vegans (<a href="http://kathrynlovett.com/">see the link here</a>) and she has talked about tofurkey peppered turkey slices a few times. I always strayed away from the tofurkey slices because I didn't think it would be something I would like. I've eaten the tofurkey sausages and their good when ground up in spaghetti or something like that, but I don't like it whole. I can't get use to the flavor. I thought I'd give the slices a try since we all know there are plenty of things I thought I would like and now love as a vegan. I decided to make a generic sandwich which I haven't had in forever...well since being a meat eater. I toasted some sourdough bread, spread with vegenaise, louisiana hot sauce, a few tomato slices salted, peppered and seasoned with some cajun seasoning, chopped onion, lettuce, pickle and a slice of peppered turkey. I was pleasantly surprised. This will definitely become an easy staple for lunch or dinner when I'm on a bind and need something quick. I don't like to base my recipes on processed fake meats but it's really convenient to be able to have them as an option when I'm in a bind.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufLMkmBRQ7w/TknSWz1F25I/AAAAAAAAAcc/7pf0NM9fXiU/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" naa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufLMkmBRQ7w/TknSWz1F25I/AAAAAAAAAcc/7pf0NM9fXiU/s640/006.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
My husband and I had a late dinner and we were craving potatoes so I ventured out and made some delicious potatoes. It was worth the heat. I chopped the potatoes, spread with olive oil, cajun seasoning and a little rosemary. Mixed together to coat all of the potatoes and baked for about 25 minutes or so. If you are looking to keep your house cool a nice salad or corn on the cob heated in the microwave would be a good side as well. <br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed today's post. Till next time! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler! Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-60999814000171803862011-08-09T12:56:00.000-07:002011-08-09T19:34:57.416-07:00Cajun Fried Green Tomatoes Po'Boy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZHqOP2WWaI/TkGO837lGvI/AAAAAAAAAcM/Dg-Y5XzUyj0/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" naa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZHqOP2WWaI/TkGO837lGvI/AAAAAAAAAcM/Dg-Y5XzUyj0/s640/003.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I've tried this recipe before but I could never find green tomatoes in my area so I always used regular tomatoes. It tasted good but it was hard to work with because they were always so juicy and not as tough as the green tomatoes. My mom found some green tomatoes for me the other day and I'm finally getting around to making this again. I'm SOOOO glad I did because it's amazing. More amazing then I even remembered. The recipe is very similar to the BLT I made the other day but it has a totally different taste. BLT with a southern flare! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ADGohr4St4/TkGQulVcU9I/AAAAAAAAAcQ/eTqGSFvrSYk/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" naa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ADGohr4St4/TkGQulVcU9I/AAAAAAAAAcQ/eTqGSFvrSYk/s640/004.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Ingredients:<br />
1 Green tomato<br />
bread crumbs (I was out so I crushed some multi-grain wheat thin toasted chips I had on hand)<br />
Lettuce Leaf<br />
Cajun seasoning<br />
Hot Sauce (I recommend Louisiana hot sauce for this)<br />
Salt/Pepper to taste<br />
Roll<br />
Soy Mayo<br />
Fake Bacon* optional<br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Heat your skillet with about a tablespoon of olive oil<br />
2. Meanwhile slice your tomato, you don't want them to thin, but not too thick either<br />
3. Salt and pepper the tomato slices. Crush the crackers if you don't have breadcrumbs, and mix in a shallow bowl with the cajun seasoning. I didn't measure so I just eye balled what I would need for one tomato.<br />
4. Dip the tomato slices in the mix until covered. Add to the heated skillet and brown on each side<br />
5. Toast your roll, spread with mayo, add hot sauce to taste, Put tomato slices in a row, top with a lettuce leaf and you have yourself a magnificent cajun sammy! <br />
* you can heat up some bacon to add, but I didn't have any on hand and it tasted fine without it. <br />
<br />
EDIT!!<br />
<br />
I made a tasty side for the po'boys! I took some broccoli (I used frozen but fresh works too) and heated it on the same grill I cooked the tomatoes with. I didn't add any water or oil to the pan, just cover the broccoli and let it steam for a few minutes until it's heated through. Once it was heated I uncovered and crushed some more of the same multi-grain wheat thin toasted chips over the broccoli, added the same cajun seasoning from the tomatoes and a little salt/pepper. Let that heat and the crushed crackers brown a little. It was perfect! <br />
<br />
Enjoy! Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-44359683388915839512011-08-06T16:21:00.000-07:002011-08-06T16:21:52.196-07:00GREEN BEANS!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2lPEbqac50/Tj3LT_9n7iI/AAAAAAAAAb8/QxZNnbW4pf8/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2lPEbqac50/Tj3LT_9n7iI/AAAAAAAAAb8/QxZNnbW4pf8/s640/002.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I know I probably post about green beans more then any other veggie but I wanted to show you all my fresh farm beans! I didn't do anything different this time, the same ole sweet and spicy soy sauce beans that I make all the time. I love these so much that I ate the whole pound of beans all by myself. LOL. At least they were fresh and organic right? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOmHAS0b_js/Tj3L67xxVVI/AAAAAAAAAcA/7CAawR_pcOc/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOmHAS0b_js/Tj3L67xxVVI/AAAAAAAAAcA/7CAawR_pcOc/s640/003.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
That is all....short, sweet and to the point! Enjoy your saturday! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-71493304567966555122011-08-05T12:49:00.000-07:002011-08-05T12:49:45.671-07:00The best vegan sandwich ever! THE BLT!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ckJcQm8Lysw/TjxHGxOC1zI/AAAAAAAAAbw/1hCyx__Mqog/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ckJcQm8Lysw/TjxHGxOC1zI/AAAAAAAAAbw/1hCyx__Mqog/s640/008.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></div><br />
As you all know I still had some heirloom tomatoes left over after the pizza for the beginning of this week. After finishing the left overs I knew I would want to make a BLT. I always surprise myself when it comes to tomatoes. I sometimes like them..sometimes I don't. Just raw tomatoes aren't my favorite, and I typically don't like them on my burgers or sandwich's but then I like a good BLT. I know I make no sense! So even the folks that don't like tomatoes might like this sandwich. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ixfpVJ-YyV4/TjxIaClV5SI/AAAAAAAAAb0/ZWFyZhaHBmc/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ixfpVJ-YyV4/TjxIaClV5SI/AAAAAAAAAb0/ZWFyZhaHBmc/s640/001.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
It's SOOOO easy to make and it is SOOO delicious!!! Husband loved it! I could eat them every day. I took a slice of sourdough bread and toasted it. Once toasted spread one side with vegan mayo, the other with vegan cream cheese. I added a few drops of Louisiana hot sauce to both sides of the bread and topped with two slices of tomato. Sprinkle the tomato with salt and pepper, then top with a slice of lettuce and two strips of vegan bacon (cooked over course! They heat up super quick on the stove, just a few minutes on each side). That is it! It's amazing that something so simple could taste so superb! =) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sNMljG9OXqs/TjxIgMNGx6I/AAAAAAAAAb4/YrKv_ei9hXI/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sNMljG9OXqs/TjxIgMNGx6I/AAAAAAAAAb4/YrKv_ei9hXI/s640/006.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We ate our sammies with a side of corn fresh from the farm. We eat ours with butter, salt and tapatio hot sauce. Perfection! If you see in the second photo I posted a few slices of cucumber. I've also had the same BLT but instead of lettuce I added some cucumber. Both were tasty. Husband wants to try the same sandwich with some pepperoncini's. So you can easily adapt the recipe. ENJOY! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler! </div>Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-15550141567464520322011-08-03T12:41:00.000-07:002011-08-03T12:41:49.668-07:00Happy Birthday Hubby: Birthday Dinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H3dnLylOJHI/TjmgrexD8OI/AAAAAAAAAbg/EtKrYlTZoTA/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H3dnLylOJHI/TjmgrexD8OI/AAAAAAAAAbg/EtKrYlTZoTA/s640/009.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Yesterday was my husband's birthday so I planned a meal I thought he would enjoy, plus the heirloom tomatoes from my CSA were finally ripe and ready to use. This was a really easy meal to put together. I just bought the pre-made pizza dough, you can find plenty of vegan ones in the store and topped with our favorite toppings. What made this meal ultra awesome was Daiya has a new flavor of cheese...PEPPERJACK!!! You should have seen me when I went to the store planning on getting plan mozzarella and I see the new flavor. I about died! My favorite cheese as a vegetarian was pepperjack. I could literally eat a whole block by myself. I put it on everything! Hence I was a very excited vegan...kind of like a kid in a candy store. =) <br />
<br />
For this pizza I used the store bought dough<br />
Storebought pizza sauce<br />
Pepperjack Daiya cheese (The second half you see in the picture is real cheese for hubby...it being his birthday and all)<br />
1 Heirloom tomato sliced however you like<br />
1/2 onion chopped very small<br />
fresh basil, I used the one from my thai basil plant. Washed the leaves and put whole leaves on top of the tomatoes. I was afraid I was over doing the basil but after it cooked I realized I could have added a lot more<br />
I was out of garlic (not sure how that happened) so I was stuck using garlic powder instead of the real thing<br />
Red pepper flakes<br />
After I cooked the pizza I added some italian seasoning because I didn't put enough basil. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2l6zdpqRlE/TjmieJFeTzI/AAAAAAAAAbk/7AVtQlq81U0/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2l6zdpqRlE/TjmieJFeTzI/AAAAAAAAAbk/7AVtQlq81U0/s640/007.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
That is all...A perfect tomato and basil pizza using fresh produce and seasoning straight from the garden! I made some garlic bread for a side, since I was out of garlic I spread some butter on toasted bread, sprinkled the top with garlic powder and italian seasoning. Not as good as it could have been but it worked in a bind. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFs-KszaInE/TjmikVARmYI/AAAAAAAAAbo/WhatRJorsBg/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFs-KszaInE/TjmikVARmYI/AAAAAAAAAbo/WhatRJorsBg/s640/008.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
For dessert I bought some cookies for hubby. He doesn't really like cake so I stuck a candle in one of the cookies and sang him happy bday! *insert awww here* I'm bummed I didn't get a picture. If you have any doubt that the food was good, here is a photo of Bella and her big fat tummy. Not only was her stomach twice it's normal size, but she weighed twice what she did that morning! I'm not sure how she did it but I guess since it was Rich's birthday, he decided to share all of his goodies. You would have thought it was HER birthday! So spoiled! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njXIv8CJWOE/TjmjnqsPtaI/AAAAAAAAAbs/3G8Wwsy6FPQ/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njXIv8CJWOE/TjmjnqsPtaI/AAAAAAAAAbs/3G8Wwsy6FPQ/s640/010.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
More meals to come, I have more tomatoes to use. I'm thinking a nice BLT, side of green beans, or corn! Stay tuned! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-21516650102985764642011-07-26T20:23:00.000-07:002011-07-26T20:23:42.996-07:00Farm Fresh To You!!!!!!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bUvsEXa5W74/Ti-A6FRXeeI/AAAAAAAAAbU/Q93KOsT7PvM/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bUvsEXa5W74/Ti-A6FRXeeI/AAAAAAAAAbU/Q93KOsT7PvM/s640/016.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I've been debating signing up with a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). I kept going back and forth and just wasn't ready to commit. This afternoon at work I got a surprise delivery from Farm Fresh to You, the farm I was looking into. My AWESOME mom knew I really wanted to try it and surprised me with my first box!!! I am sooo excited! For those of you not familiar with CSA's it's a way to help support your local farms while getting FRESH, local, and organic fruits and veggies. The farm that we work with is Capay Farms. They have a few different farms they work with in this area. Each week/two weeks/month (depending on how often you want a box) they deliver a box of goodies right to your door. They have different packages with all different sizes and options that fit your family. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VboceOPFaQc/Ti-Bx2Cf4eI/AAAAAAAAAbY/vqc-fSUY5F4/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VboceOPFaQc/Ti-Bx2Cf4eI/AAAAAAAAAbY/vqc-fSUY5F4/s640/017.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
This week I got Grapes, lettuce, basil, corn, red plums, cucumber, green beans and BEAUTIFUL heirloom tomatoes. All I can say is AMAZING. Everything looks and smells ..... for lack of a better word...Amazing. I can't wait to try all kinds of new recipes with all of my goodies. Each week they have new produce and fruits they deliver. Their website has a ton of recipes that incorporate that weeks food. You can also check the website for what your next week's items will be. If there is something you don't like, you just let them know and they will give you more of something else. Pretty sweet deal! I feel healthier already! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MENS3Tbem2s/Ti-CgLWQf5I/AAAAAAAAAbc/iqebTrn0mAk/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MENS3Tbem2s/Ti-CgLWQf5I/AAAAAAAAAbc/iqebTrn0mAk/s640/018.JPG" t$="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I ate a few of the grapes, and a plum, both delicious. The plums aren't quite ripe yet, so I'll save the rest for later. For my first meal I decided to make a new mac-n-cheese dish. I searched some recipes on <a href="http://veganpandamonium.blogspot.com/2009/10/mac-cheese.html">Vegan Pandamonium</a> and found this mac n cheese recipe. I decided to add broccoli to the mix. It turned out well, except the sauce was WAYYY too thick. I'm not sure what I did. It made for a pretty dry mac n cheese. I'm not sure if I should have added more butter? I used all of the boiling water even though she said you probably wouldn't need it all. I would maybe thin it out with some soy milk, or more water next time. I'm thinking when I re-heat the left overs I'll add either some butter or milk to help moisten it up. I cut the broccoli into florets and boiled for a few minutes. Then added to the pasta and sauce in the casserole dish. I didn't have breadcrumbs so I toasted a bun and crushed that over the top.<br />
<br />
I have a lot more ideas for all of the goodies I received today. Stay tuned for heirloom tomato BLT's, tomato and basil pizza, Cucumber tea sandwich's, and other awesome sides like corn, salad and green beans!!! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-15886353064606305542011-07-19T19:49:00.000-07:002011-07-19T19:50:48.044-07:00Goulash, that isn't really goulash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eC2vVlABG-U/TiY3VVTy2PI/AAAAAAAAAag/DCEBhLJuDMc/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eC2vVlABG-U/TiY3VVTy2PI/AAAAAAAAAag/DCEBhLJuDMc/s640/009.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I was originally planning on making an oriental ramen salad but realized I'm almost all out of oil and there really isn't any substitute for it in this recipe. Since I didn't want to go to the store I had to completely change shifts and find something new to cook. So I did what I always do when my original idea doesn't go as planned, stare in my cupboard and fridge. Just sit, and hope that something jumps out at me. It always reminds me of being young and my Dad yelling at me to close the fridge door. Dinner wasn't going to jump out at me. Well in this case it kinda did. I went back and forth with a few ideas and ended up with this. The only good word I could come up with to name this dish was goulash. I realize this really isn't a goulash, but gosh darnit I made it so I get to name it. <br />
<br />
It turned out better than I even imagined! I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out and just figured it would be another last minute, I'm starving, just okay on the awesome radar dish. Well I was wrong. I will probably make this again and again. It was really easy to prepare and cook. You do have to turn on your stove top but it didn't have to cook for very long. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3iut-w_9npY/TiY8jSWFJwI/AAAAAAAAAak/41ZFUp4Acik/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" m$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3iut-w_9npY/TiY8jSWFJwI/AAAAAAAAAak/41ZFUp4Acik/s640/005.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yAzbH-jDFJU/TiY8mCnS7PI/AAAAAAAAAao/XXX5W2YhaLs/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" m$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yAzbH-jDFJU/TiY8mCnS7PI/AAAAAAAAAao/XXX5W2YhaLs/s640/006.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I'm not a huge fan of zucchini and squash (the little round veggie is a green squash). So typically when I see recipes using them I don't even bother giving them a chance. Please don't be like me and try this one out. I think it will change your mind. Granted the zucchini and squash came fresh from the farm in Clarksburg, so I would recommend getting some fresh. I'm convinced they taste better than grocery store veggies. The onion came from my Dad's garden. The only thing not fresh were the tomatoes. If I had some handy I would have used them instead. Here's the recipe for all y'all to give it a shot.<br />
<br />
Cooked pasta (any shape would do. I would stay away from spaghetti though. You want something that will hold the "sauce". I used shells and they were perfect)<br />
1/2 Tablespoon of vegan butter<br />
1/2 onion roughly chopped<br />
3/4 zucchini roughly chopped (I cut into slices then cut the slices into fourths)<br />
1/2 green round squash (I chopped the same as the zucchini)<br />
1 can of chopped tomatoes, drained<br />
<br />
*Pesto*<br />
2 Tablespoons of walnuts (or pine nuts)<br />
2 Tablespoons of olive oil<br />
1-2 Cloves garlic<br />
salt and vegan parma to taste<br />
10-12 leaves of basil. I used thai basil because that is what I have growing on my porch<br />
Note: Since I used thai basil, the leaves are a lot smaller then regular basil. My pesto didn't look . <br />
much like pesto since it wasn't very green but that's okay<br />
<br />
1. I cook my pasta in the pasta boat, so I started that in the microwave while I made the sauce. <br />
2. Chop your veggies while you melt the butter in a pot. You can use olive oil as a sub for the butter but I was short on oil, so I used what I had. <br />
3. Once the butter is melted add the onions and cook until translucent<br />
4. Meanwhile open your can of tomatoes and drain the juice. I didn't want to make a spaghetti sauce, so I just wanted chunks. A little juice is okay, just not the whole can. <br />
5. Once the onions are done add the tomatoes, zucchini and squash to the pot. Cook down for a few minutes. <br />
6. While that is cooking put all of the pesto ingredients into a food processor. Once everything is highly processed and resembles a paste add it into the tomatoe veggie mixture in your pot. <br />
7. Cook for a few more minutes, brining the mixture to a slight boil. I added a few dashes of red pepper flakes for some heat, feel free to omit if you don't want any spice. <br />
8. Once done your pasta should be cooked. Remove from heat and add salt to taste. In my opinion it will need some but not a ton so take it slow and taste it before you go overboard. Because of the pesto it can get a little salty. <br />
9. Mix your pasta with sauce in everyone's bowl and top with vegan parma! DELISH! <br />
<br />
Note: Feel free to double the recipe. I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out and figured it would just be me eating it. Next time I'll probably make more and adjust some of the measurements. It's still a work in progress. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fjq6Nlihlew/TiZCK3yQ1PI/AAAAAAAAAas/3-OhdgWHuP4/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" m$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fjq6Nlihlew/TiZCK3yQ1PI/AAAAAAAAAas/3-OhdgWHuP4/s640/002.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Just for fun here's a photo of some beautiful Dahila's from my parents garden. LOVE! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-41015036953151009032011-07-18T19:36:00.000-07:002011-07-18T19:36:07.625-07:00White Bean Quesadilla<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xn8w40qqapI/TiTk-wyD3uI/AAAAAAAAAaU/8FeZvgrCk3M/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" m$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xn8w40qqapI/TiTk-wyD3uI/AAAAAAAAAaU/8FeZvgrCk3M/s640/010.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
This post is dedicated to my co-worker/supervisor/queen. She was telling me today that she has been giving out my link to her friends who were interested in vegetarian/vegan recipes. She's so sweet for thinking of me and I haven't even been updating the blog. Because it's summer I've been taking it easy on the cooking. My apartment gets pretty warm in the summer and if I turn on the stove or oven it's like a sauna. So even though I've been taking it easy here are a few summer recipes. <br />
<br />
I actually made these a few weeks back on the Fourth of July. I was looking for something easy. I had all of the ingredients ready and I had just made fresh salsa. I found the recipe on vegweb.com. Follow this<a href="http://vegweb.com/index.php?topic=26274.0"> link</a> to the recipe. I followed the recipe exactly except I left out liquid smoke because I was out. My omnivore sister even loved them. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8QACp2MO3U/TiTrhpZx4EI/AAAAAAAAAaY/fod2GKDnM0A/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" m$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8QACp2MO3U/TiTrhpZx4EI/AAAAAAAAAaY/fod2GKDnM0A/s640/016.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4mHdXZd8ms/TiTrjpXriEI/AAAAAAAAAac/yXnQi4klNf0/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4mHdXZd8ms/TiTrjpXriEI/AAAAAAAAAac/yXnQi4klNf0/s640/018.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
There is nothing better than a farm fresh meal! This weekend my parents and I went to Clarksburg. They have a farm right off of the river you can stop at and buy fresh veggies. We got corn for 6 ears/$1, squash, zucchini and tomatoes! The corn I cooked, melted some vegan butter, salt and sriracha. Tapatio is great on corn too. I also made my zucchini "pasta" dish that I've posted about before with some asparagus, and then fresh salsa with the tomatoes. Nothing too fancy but super delicious. <br />
<br />
I hope to have some new recipes up soon! Stay tuned! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-59228179172885337142011-06-24T12:55:00.000-07:002011-06-24T12:55:27.501-07:00My first salad post!I know most people think vegans and vegetarians live on salads...well not so much. I honestly can't remember the last time I had a salad before last night. I'm not a big salad eater, not that I don't enjoy them. I just don't think they are as healthy as everyone thinks. Really once you add the dressing you've kind of ruined all it had going for you. I mean yes, I'm sure they are better than a huge burger but not the best. Also depending on the lettuce you use it's mostly just water without much nutrition to it.<br />
<br />
With that said I FINALLY went grocery shopping yesterday and once I got home and unloaded everything I wanted something quick so I made a salad! Super easy, and this one was SUPER yummy!!! I didn't take a picture but it entailed lettuce, chopped fresh onions from my dad's garden, capers, croutons, (I would have added pepperoncinis if I remembered to get them), champagne dressing and pepper. Perfect! Husband also likes a good salad but he douses his in ranch...even worst! =) <br />
<br />
Since I didn't take any photos of my food I thought I'd share a photo of my new tattoo! I got it done while in New Orleans and the same shop I got my other tattoo done 4 years ago. Luckily the artist that did my tattoo had left the shop but JUST moved back! What luck! I don't know if I've shared the story about my other tattoo but my sister and cousin all got the same one on our wrist each with a different word. Mine says love, my sister's faith and my cousin strength. So we all three got new tattoos...just of different things this time around. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kTLvCJUMVpc/TgTpEVfGDlI/AAAAAAAAAaM/iVGNczpAedk/s1600/338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kTLvCJUMVpc/TgTpEVfGDlI/AAAAAAAAAaM/iVGNczpAedk/s640/338.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I got a bird on a branch holding a dandelion, with the dandelion fluffs being blown off and floating. I ♥ it! Mad props to my tattoo artist for his mad skills! He's amazing. This thing hurt like no ones business but he was great through all of it. Letting me curse and scream while I sat completely still for an hour an a half! No tears though!!! =) <br />
<br />
It's a tattoo about myself, about my life, where I've gone, come from and where I'm going. A reminder to keep my head in the clouds, and let life under my wings and take me where the wind blows. I can be a pretty high strung person always worrying and I think I've started calming down (I'm sure my husband would beg to differ, but whose asking his opinion) and this is just a reminder to stay that way. I also LOVE the dandelion. When I was a kid I was constantly making wishes. I'm so grateful to all of the wonderful things I have in my life. So many of my dreams have come true. This is a tribute to that, and hopefully more wishes and dreams to come true in the future. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwDCqrRDnSk/TgTqmjSeZWI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/ACzkIhzmnSM/s1600/fleur+de+lis+nola+tattoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwDCqrRDnSk/TgTqmjSeZWI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/ACzkIhzmnSM/s640/fleur+de+lis+nola+tattoo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I think I've posted this before but here's my other tattoo. This one is for my family and my city. I love you all and miss you more than you know. It really needs no description. <br />
<br />
What kind of tattoos do y'all have? I'd love to hear about them! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-32503336015633092272011-06-22T18:11:00.000-07:002011-06-22T18:11:20.795-07:00Spicy Sesame Bok Choy Stir Fry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFp2HOd8WbU/TgKPF4mX7yI/AAAAAAAAAaE/v-A0q3jMnko/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFp2HOd8WbU/TgKPF4mX7yI/AAAAAAAAAaE/v-A0q3jMnko/s400/007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I went to the farmers market in Sacramento on Sunday with my dad for Father's Day. I got a bunch of yummy food! Including some baby bok choy! I bought some frozen veggies for stir fry from Sam's the mixture comes with this sesame sauce that you can add. I typically make my own sauce but I was wanting something different and thought I'd use it for a bok choy stir fry. It turned out great! <br />
<br />
My dad just pulled some sweet white onions from his garden so I chopped two of those (they are pretty small). Melted some butter in my wok with some garlic powder (I was out of fresh) and crushed red peppers. Add the onions and sauted in the wok. I washed the bok choy, and seperated each stalk from the middle. I didn't both chopping them up, they look prettier to keep them whole. Once the onions cooked down I added the bok choy with a little bit of water. I let that cook maybe a minute before adding the sauce packet. Meanwhile I cooked some thin spaghetti noodles in my pasta boat. Once the bok choy cooked down, but still with a bite, try not to over cook and the sauce coated the veggies I added the cooked spaghetti. I tossed everything and served! You can add soy sauce if desired. <br />
<br />
I also got some good beets, cabbage and rosemary bread at the farmers market! I figured I'd get the fixings to make a good salad with beets and my dad's onions. I have a recipe to use the beet greens as well. They supposedly taste a little bitter like arugula or kalamata olives. I'm excited to try them. I'm sure Rich will love it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YkbyJivu5Co/TgKSW1nzLII/AAAAAAAAAaI/P-thB-BQR-Y/s1600/261426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YkbyJivu5Co/TgKSW1nzLII/AAAAAAAAAaI/P-thB-BQR-Y/s400/261426.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I'm even more excited about the fresh herbs I got!! My dad potted them for me, and hopefully soon they will grow plentiful and I will have my own cilantro and thai basil to use to my cooking hearts desire! YAY! Hopefully this sun and heat doesn't kill them! <br />
<br />
Stay cool everyone...<br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-23292706784856911072011-06-17T12:50:00.000-07:002011-06-17T12:52:38.110-07:00BEANS N THINGS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tpxs4OAMI4c/TfusA1Kx1GI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/RBkY1MZ9pgc/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tpxs4OAMI4c/TfusA1Kx1GI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/RBkY1MZ9pgc/s640/002.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I'm just full of quick and easy meals. I like this one because not only is it easy, but it's great for protein with all of the beans. I got the basic recipe from VegWeb, submitted by fypgitjies. I adapted the recipe to come up with this:<br />
<br />
1 can of beans, I used white but you can sub for black,kidney, black eyed peas, whatever.<br />
1 can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. I didn't use a whole can but rather the left over from the other night, but a full can would be ideal<br />
A few cloves of garlic minced<br />
1 shallot chopped<br />
oil for sauteing <br />
A tablespoon or so of cajun seasoning (I used zatarain's red bean seasoning which comes in a box)<br />
Prepared rice (I usually use brown, but I had some left over arborio rice so I used that and cooked it in the rice cooker)<br />
<br />
1. Heat oil, add garlic and shallot and saute until cooked down and fragrant<br />
2. Add the can of beans, tomatoes, and seasoning<br />
3. Let simmer until the beans are cooked and to your desired texture. <br />
4. Serve over a bed of rice<br />
5. Add salt/pepper and/or hot sauce if desired<br />
<br />
So last night I had a craving for dessert. Husband prefers cookies over cupcakes so I thought I'd make a treat for him to come home too...too bad I totally botched the recipe. I followed the recipe to a T, except for subbing maple sytrup for vanilla because I was out, but they turned into this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7yf67NT4P0/Tfut87k2EDI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/veV5qEVUZCI/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7yf67NT4P0/Tfut87k2EDI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/veV5qEVUZCI/s640/004.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>LOL!!! More of a cookie cake. There was WAY too much oil, and I shouldn't have used olive oil because it was way to strong tasting. They tasted okay but not what I was going for. I ended up cutting them with a pizza cutter. =) At least they didn't burn, which I was afraid of. I guess it's all just a learning experience. If I don't post before then, Happy Fathers Day to all the dad's out there. I truly (not just saying it because I have to) have the best day in the whole world. He has/does so much for me and my sisters, is supportive, gives the best advice, and loves everyone unconditionally. I'm the luckiest girl! I love you PAPA ♥ from your #1 daughter ;)!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QREHOo036NM/Tfuv6lerGiI/AAAAAAAAAaA/XhyBV7z6qaI/s1600/251061_1966663279048_1016903773_2240701_1839692_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QREHOo036NM/Tfuv6lerGiI/AAAAAAAAAaA/XhyBV7z6qaI/s640/251061_1966663279048_1016903773_2240701_1839692_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's me in the hat, and my dad to my left with my sisters and mom</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-35359461185840725732011-06-16T12:41:00.000-07:002011-06-16T12:41:25.324-07:00Sweet and Spicy Broccoli with noodles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VqShdGgmCCM/TfpZ2T3RheI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/GBOPc-ErTB8/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VqShdGgmCCM/TfpZ2T3RheI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/GBOPc-ErTB8/s640/001.JPG" t8="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
Another quick lunch/dinner recipe. I've posted similar recipes that I cook for green beans, but I made some variations this time and felt it was worth posting about. Forgive the photo...it just wouldn't photograph well for me. <br />
<br />
I've compiled a few recipes that I've found and pulled my favorites from each and came up with this. It's a super easy, quick meal when your in the mood for something sweet and spicy and a little asian flare. <br />
<br />
3 Tablespoons of soy sauce<br />
1 Tablespoon of agave nectar<br />
1 teaspoon of cornstarch<br />
1 teaspoon of crushed red peppers<br />
2 teaspoons of garlic chili sauce<br />
1 garlic clove minced very fine<br />
Veggie of your choice (I used broccoli this time but I've used green beans or any other asian inspired veggie would work) I tpyically use frozen, but fresh would work just as well, just adjust the cooking for fresh<br />
Cooked pasta (anything will do)<br />
<br />
Spicier variations of the sauce:<br />
Add an additional tablespoon of agave (2 total)<br />
Add 1 tespoon of dry mustard powder<br />
Take out the garlic chili sauce and garlic clove<br />
add a few shakes of seasame chili oil, and sesame seeds. <br />
<br />
1. Add frozen broccoli to a pan and cover over medium heat. Let steam until they are almost done cooking. I don't like mushy broccoli so I pretty much cook until they are no longer cold and nice and crisp<br />
2. Meanwhile add remaining ingredients (except pasta) in a bowl and mix well. Add the sauce to the broccoli once it's almost done<br />
3. Cook uncovered for about a minute or so, after the sauce slightly thickens and coats the veggie.<br />
4. Top the broccoli and sauce over pasta, and that's it. <br />
<br />
Enjoy! The sauce would go really well with a stir fry. If you chop up any veggies of your choice (bell peppers, baby corn, water chestnuts, broccoli, carrots, green beans, sugar snap peas, etc. are some good choices) and saute in a little oil in a wok, once they are almost done cooking add the same sauce, wait for it to thicken then add some noodles of your choice. Rice noodles, spaghetti noodles, or even udon noodles would be yummy. Mix everything together and cook a little longer so the sauce coats the veggies and noodles and you have yourself a yummy stir fry/chow mein! =)<br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-50158754297066992062011-06-15T12:54:00.000-07:002011-06-15T12:54:12.646-07:00Vegan Vegveeta Cheese SauceBelieve it or not I haven't been to the grocery store since I've been back. Although my fridge is pretty sparse I have a ton of cuboard food that I'm trying to use up before going back to the store. Pretty much because I'm lazy. Although it's kind of nice to have a small selection of food because it gets me more creative. I have a few recipes to post today from what I've whipped up around the house. These are more meals that you need on the quick and easy with staples you should have in your cuboard (well at least things I have in my cuboard). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6782iK1GL9E/TfkJ_XStg_I/AAAAAAAAAZs/Ys_jPcCShAI/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6782iK1GL9E/TfkJ_XStg_I/AAAAAAAAAZs/Ys_jPcCShAI/s640/004.JPG" t8="true" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First up is a recipe I found on a fellow vegan blog for vegveeta cheese sauce. It sounded good so I figured I'd give it a shot. My vegveeta didn't turn out as yellow as hers did but that's because I thought I had turmeric and turns out I didn't so it ended up being more greyish orange. Works for me because it all tastes the same. =) You can find the recipe <a href="http://viveleveganrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/03/vegveeta-cheese-dip.html">here</a>. I've had that recipe bookmarked for awhile now and finally getting around to it. I'm so glad I did. It was SUPER yummy. It was creamy and thick just like vegveeta. Some adjustments I made to the recipe:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I used probably 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice (not fresh) because I ran out and that was all I had left</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cornstarch instead of arrowroot powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Left out the turmeric </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I used about 1 Tablespoon of vegan parma </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I added 1/4-1/2 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (added once the cheese was on the stovetop)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A couple of jalapeno peppers (added on stovetop)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The tomatoes and jalapeno peppers made the cheese. It was kind of like a queso salsa. I was going to bake potatoes and top with the cheese but realized my potatoes had gone bad. =/ So instead I baked tator tots and steamed veggies and dipped it in the sauce! It was perfect and husband loved it. The next day I made a chikn sandwhich and topped it with the cheesel. There are so many uses for it. It would be good on top of a hot dog, or just as a chip dip. Even to add to a sauce for pasta or casserole! Great staple to have. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8W95TOfHv0/TfkMk3ZgPhI/AAAAAAAAAZw/Ggv71ywMLkQ/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8W95TOfHv0/TfkMk3ZgPhI/AAAAAAAAAZw/Ggv71ywMLkQ/s640/002.JPG" t8="true" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've made a few variations on the chikn sandwhich. The picture above I put together a BBQ sauce (there are a million recipes online if your interested in making it home made) and grilled it with the patty over the stove. Put mayo on a ciabatta roll with onion, relish and jalapenos. You really can't go wrong with those toppings. =) I've done a few other easy meals, but I've been bad about taking photos. One night I made dogs in a blanket dipped with ketchup and hot sauce. For some reason they turned out really good. Much better than past experiences. I used the croissant rounds and smart dogs. I made sure to check them every few minutes to make sure they didn't burn and they turned out perfect. I made a side of blackbeans sauted with onion, garlic and cajun seasonings. Another night I used the left over black beans for a burrito. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last night I made a YUMMY spaghetti. I used jarred sauce again but added a few spoonfuls of vegan cream cheese. Then I made a garlic butter to top on a ciabatta roll (mince a few cloves of garlic add to the butter with some italian seasoning and mix well, spread over bread of choice..voila!). It was a yummy meal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next time I hope to have more interesting meals to share...if I ever get to the store that is. =)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler! </div>Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1176561061923941583.post-59302939678603733592011-06-10T20:56:00.000-07:002011-06-10T22:00:02.522-07:00I'mmmm baaaccckkkk!!Hey y'all!!!!! I'm back from my trip to New Orleans. I had such a great time! I've actually been back a week now but it always takes me a few days to recooperate and get back in the swing of things. It's so hard leaving family. <br />
<br />
While I was there I had an easier time eating than I thought I would. So don't worry, I never went hungry. =) Unfortunately I didn't eat a ton of true "southern" food but I was able to score a french fry po'boy! yumm! When we got there I went to Whole Foods and got some staples for the times that we ate at home. It worked out great. One memorable meal was in Houston at a restaurant that I can't remember the name of(nevermind remembered..The Yard House! There is suppose to be one coming soon in Roseville, CA!). They had a whole section of the menu filled with gardein meals!!! A lot of them weren't vegan, but could easily have been made as such! I got the "beef" sliders and they were delish!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXPZf_-7mnQ/TfLg-zNsgMI/AAAAAAAAAZk/5HcuizUiivc/s1600/340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXPZf_-7mnQ/TfLg-zNsgMI/AAAAAAAAAZk/5HcuizUiivc/s640/340.JPG" t8="true" width="478" /></a></div><br />
I have two new recipes to share with everyone! The first is from my cousin who has an abundance of squash and zucchini in her garden. You take a julienne slicer and julienne the entire squash and zucchini (one of each is about 1 large serving, two if your making it for a side) all the way down to the seeds. When you're done you'll get a bowl that looks like the above photo. Chop some onions and garlic and saute them in some butter (a few tablespoons is good). Once they have cooked down add in the julienne veggies and add some seasoning to taste. I used Tony Chachere's cajun seasoning. Saute that until it's heated through and that's all you need! It's so tasty! I also added some thawed green beans and threw them in with the julienned veggies. So yummy that I forgot to take a photo of the final product! Thanks Becca for the awesome recipe! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52KFpdPwbk4/TfLjCj9yPRI/AAAAAAAAAZo/yC7R3oj0bYc/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52KFpdPwbk4/TfLjCj9yPRI/AAAAAAAAAZo/yC7R3oj0bYc/s400/photo.JPG" t8="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Tonight I wanted something I could make with things I already had in the kitchen and I came up with this risotto soup. My inspiration was from the asparagus soup I made and posted awhile back. This turned out with a completely different taste, and man was it good!!! I will definitely make this again. I didn't measure hardly anything so take the below instructions lightly and adjust to your taste:<br />
<br />
A drizzle of olive oil<br />
2 Tablespoons of butter<br />
1 small onion<br />
4 large garlic cloves<br />
a few squirts of lemon juice<br />
a very small drop of mustard<br />
a few squirts of agave nectar<br />
enough rosemary to sprinkle the top of the pot<br />
2/3 cup of arborio rice <br />
4 cups of veggie broth (I used two bouillon cubes dissolved in 4 cups of water)<br />
about a pound of green beans (I used frozen, then thawed in the microwave, and cut in half)<br />
<br />
1. Heat the oil and butter together in a large pot until the butter is almost melted.<br />
2. Add the onions and garlic and saute until soft and translucent. <br />
3. Add the lemon juice, mustard, agave, and rosemary and saute about a minute to incorporate. <br />
4. Add the rice and constantly stir for a few minutes to allow the rice to absorb the flavors<br />
5. Add the broth and bring to a boil<br />
6. Cover and lower the heat and let simmer 10 minutes<br />
7. Add the green beans and heat a few more minutes until they are heated through. <br />
8. SERVE!! No salt needed. Would go great with a good bread, or even topped with some Parma! <br />
<br />
I hope everyone missed me! I'll post later with some photos from the trip for everyone to enjoy. Untill next time! <br />
<br />
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!Brittany Stokerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06605525328866509038noreply@blogger.com0