Author: Nissa

  • Hand Pounded Pesto with Pecorino

    Pesto, simply translated means pounded. It is one of the Lingurian regions most prized ingredients and traditionally hand pounded. Today many use food processors or blenders but you can still find devoted traditionalists who hand pound it proving that the taste is still superior with this method due to the increase of released essential oils…

  • Cilantro & Roasted Jalapeno Pumpkinseed Pesto with Aged Cheddar & Pickled Red Onions

    Makes 2½ cups pesto and 3 cups of pickled onions Ingredients For the Cilantro Pumpkin Seed Jalapeno Pesto 1½ cups fresh cilantro leaves 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon lime zest Juice of 2 limes 3 roasted jalapeños, deseeded, peeled and chopped ½ cup pumpkin seeds 1½ teaspoons salt ¼-½ cup olive oil For the…

  • Spring Asparagus & Mint Pesto with Chive Blossoms & Smoked Gouda

    Makes 2 ½ cups pesto Ingredients 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed (½ inch off only) and chopped ½ cup fresh mint leaves, stems removed and chopped 2 teaspoons lemon zest 2 tablespoons lemon juice ¼ cup raw almonds ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 1½ teaspoons salt Baguette Smoked gouda Chive blossoms Directions Place all…

  • Strawberry Balsamic Cooler

    Ingredients 1 ounce strawberry puree Sweet Strawberry Balsamic Vinegar* Seltzer Directions Pour strawberry puree into glass. Top with seltzer and Sweet Balsamic Vinegar. *Sweet Strawberry Balsamic Vinegar- In a medium sauce pan, combine  ½ cup water, ½ cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 2 smashed strawberries, 1 tablespoon black peppercorns (crushed coarsely) and 1 cup…

  • Rhubarb Ginger Soda

    Ingredients Ginger-Rhubarb Syrup Basil Syrup Rhubarb Bitters (optional) Seltzer Directions Pour seltzer into glass and top with both syrups. Add a few dashes of bitters. *Ginger-Rhubarb Syrup-To make the rhubarb syrup place ½ cup fresh rhubarb chopped, 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and…

  • Strawberry Cilantro Soda

    Ingredients 1 ounce strawberry puree Seltzer Sweet Balsamic Vinegar Directions Pour strawberry puree into a glass. Top with seltzer and Sweet Balsamic Vinegar. *Sweet Cilantro Syrup-In a blender blend ½ cup simple syrup, the juice and zest of 2 limes and 1 cup cilantro leaves to form a pesto-like, smooth substance.

  • The Lavender Beet

    Ingredients 1 ounces of vodka ½ ounce lillet blanc 1 ounce lavender beet syrup* ¼ ounce fresh orange juice ½ ounce lemon juice Orange Peel Lavender Flower In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, lillet, beet syrup and citrus juice and shake gently until the mixture gets cold.  Strain into a low ball…

  • Fresh Strawberry Black Pepper-Balsamic Cocktail

    Fresh Strawberry Black Pepper-Balsamic Cocktail

    Ingredients 1 ½ ounce gin 1 ounce fresh strawberry puree 1 ounce lemon juice ¼ ounce basil syrup* 1/2  ounce Sweet Strawberry Balsamic Vinegar* Rose sparkling wine Black Pepper Dried Strawberry (recipe follows) Directions Place the gin, strawberry puree, lemon juice, basil syrup and shrub in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously.…

  • Ginger-Thai Rhubarb Tequila Spritzer

    Ingredients 1 ½  ounces tequila 1 ounce Ginger Thai Basil Syrup* 1 ounce lime juice Seltzer Basil Sugar Lime Wheels* Brooklyn Hemispherical Rhubarb Bitters Directions Place the tequila, ginger basil syrup and lime juice in a tall Collins glass filled with ice and stir.  Fill the glass with seltzer and stir again.  Garnish with a…

  • Parsley- Mint Lemon Prosecco

    Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients 1 cup mint leaves 1 cup parsley leaves 1 cup sugar 2 cups water ½ cup lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 lemon sliced in rings 1 bottle prosecco Directions In a medium sauce pan, add basil, mint, sugar and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer…

  • Rose Sparkler with Sweet Cilantro Syrup

    Ingredients 1 ounce strawberry puree Rose sparkling wine Sweet Cilantro Syrup* Directions Place one ounce of pureed strawberries in a champagne flute and fill with rose sparkling wine.  Stir and squirt or spoon a little Sweet Cilantro syrup  on the top. *Sweet Cilantro Syrup-In a blender blend ½ cup simple syrup, the juice and zest…

  • Lemon & Bay Leaf Prosecco

    Lemon & Bay Leaf Prosecco

    Ingredients 1 ounce bay leaf simple syrup* Prosecco Bay Leaf Directions Place 1 ounce of bay leaf syrup in a champagne flute and fill with prosecco.  Stir and garnish with a bay leaf place inverted in the flute so that about 1 ½ inches sticks out of the top as it floats, stem side down.…

  • Heirloom Tomato Pico de Gallo

    Makes 3 cups Ingredients 2 cups heiloom cherry tomatoes, chopped fine ½ cup white onion, chopped very fine ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped very fine ½ cup cilnatro leaves 1-2 jalapeño peppers, chopped fine and deseeded 1 teaspoon cumin Juice of 3-4 limes Salt Directions Mix all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl until…

  • Salsa Acapulceno

    Salsa Acapulceno

    Makes 2-3 cups Ingredients 4 roma or plum tomatoes, chopped small ¼ cup capers ½ cup green olives, pitted and chopped 1 small white onion, chopped small 2 teaspoons lemon zest 4 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves, chopped 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves,…

  • Spicy Peruvian Cilantro Sauce

    Makes 2-3 cups Ingredients 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves 2 cloves garlic, chopped ½ small white onion ¼ cup avocado oil ¼ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste) Juice of 1 lime ¼ cup hot water (more as needed) Directions Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy,…

  • Nectarine Green Bell Pepper Salsa

    Makes 2-3 cups Ingredients 2 nectarines, not fully ripe, firm, deseeded and chopped small ½ red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped small 1 green bell pepper, deseeded and chopped small ½ red onion, chopped small 1 serrano chili, deseeded and chopped fine ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped fine Juice of 2 limes 1 teaspoon salt…

  • Pineapple, Red Onion Serrano Salsa

    Makes 2-3 cups Ingredients 1½ cup fresh pineapple, chopped small 1 small red onion, chopped small 2 serrano pepper, sliced thin Juice of 2 limes 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste if needed) Directions Toss all ingredients together in a medium bowl and mix well. Let stand approximately 1 hour before serving, keep cold.

  • Roasted Tomatillo, White Onion & Jalapeño Salsa

    Makes 2-3 cups Ingredients 10-12 medium tomatillos, quartered 1 medium white onion, peeled and quartered 2-3 jalapeños, cut in half and deseeded 2 pablano peppers, cut in half and deseeded 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon cumin Juice of 1 lime ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped Directions Preheat oven to 400°F. Place tomatillos and onions…

  • Smoky & Fiery Chipotle Sauce

    Makes 2-3 cups Ingredients 1 can chipotle in adobo sauce 3 dried ancho chilies, crushed and stems removed 2 dried meco dried chipotle peppers (light colored), crushed and stems removed 3 dried black morita dried chipotle peppers (dark colored), crushed and stems removed 1 tablespoon ground cumin powder 2 teaspoon smoked paprika 2 teaspoons salt…

  • The Lavender Beet

    The Lavender Beet

    1 ounces of vodka ½ ounce lillet blanc 1 ounce lavender beet syrup* ¼ ounce fresh orange juice ½ ounce lemon juice Orange Peel Lavender Flower In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, lillet, beet syrup and citrus juice and shake gently until the mixture gets cold.  Strain into a low ball glass…

  • Pickled Ramps

    Makes 1 pound of pickled ramps Ingredients 1 cup white vinegar ½ cup dry white wine ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard ½ cup sugar 2 tablespoons salt 1 teaspoon of each of mustard seeds, coriander, pink peppercorns, fennel seeds ½ teaspoon chili flakes 1 bay leaf 1 sprig of fresh thyme ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves…

  • Fresh Carrot Margarita

    Ingredients ½ tablespoon lime zest 2 tablespoons smoked alder salt Lime wedge 1½ ounce tequila (Centenario Rosangel) ¾ ounce Cointreau ¾ ounce fresh lime juice ¾ ounce fresh carrot juice Blackberries Mole Bitters (Brooklyn Hemispherical Blackberry Mole)* Directions Mix together the lime zest and the alder salt and place on a small plate.  Rub the…

  • Lavender Beet Sweet Vinegar Syrup

    Ingredients ¼ cup beet juice 1 cup sugar ¾ cup water ¼ cup orange juice 1 tablespoon orange zest 1 tablespoon fresh lavender flowers (1-2 teaspoons dried) ½ cup black current vinegar Directions In a medium sauce pan, whisk together the beet juice, sugar, water, orange juice and zest and lavender flowers and bring to…

  • The Bourbon Beet

    Ingredients 2 ounces bourbon (Four Roses) ½ ounce crème de violet ½ ounce lemon juice ¼ ounce Lavender Beet Sweet Vinegar Syrup* Brooklyn Hemispherical Blueberry Bitters (optional) Edible Flower Garnish (violets or pansies) Directions Combine all ingredients (except edible flower garnish) in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled cocktail…

  • Sorrel French 75

    Sorrel French 75

    Ingredients 2 ounces gin 1 ½ ounces Fresh Sorrel Lemon Syrup* Sparkling wine Lemon wheel Directions In a shaker combine the gin and the sorrel syrup and shake vigorously until cold about 15 seconds. Strain into an old fashioned champagne glass and fill with sparkling wine.  Garnish with a lemon wheel. *Fresh Sorrel Lemon Syrup…

  • Rhubarb Pink Peppercorn Tequila Cooler

    Rhubarb Pink Peppercorn Tequila Cooler

    Ingredients 2 ounces tequila reposado (Centenario Rosangel) 1 ounce Rhubarb Pink Peppercorn Syrup* 1 ounce lime juice Seltzer ½ ounce Sweet Cilantro Syrup* Lime wheel Pink Peppercorn Cilantro Sugar* Rhubarb Bitters Directions In a shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, rhubarb syrup and lime juice and shake vigorously.  Strain into a highball glass filled…

  • Ramp Gibson

    Ingredients 2 ½ ounces gin (Hendrick’s Gin) ½ ounce pickled ramp brine (from Pickled Ramps recipe) Splash of dry vermouth Ice Pickled Ramps (recipe follows) Directions Shaken: In a shaker combine the gin, vermouth, ramp brine and ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with pickled ramp. Stirred: In a large…

  • Spring Pea Radish & Sorrel Salad

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 bunches radishes, trimmed, stems removed and sliced thin 2 cups fresh spring peas, shelled and blanched (plunged in an ice bath) 2 red spring onions, sliced thin 2 cup sorrel leaves, stems removed, sliced thin (chifonade) ¼ cup lemon juice ¼ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper…

  • SPRING SORREL & KIWI GRANITA

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 cup water 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon lemon zest ½ cup lemon juice 1 large bunch fresh sorrel leaves 4 kiwis, pureed Directions Combine water, sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the temperature to low and simmer for about 5 minutes.…

  • Spring Herbal Pavlova Cups with Rhubarb Rosemary Granita and Beet Lavender Flower Syrup

    Spring Herbal Pavlova Cups with Rhubarb Rosemary Granita and Beet Lavender Flower Syrup

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients For pavlovas 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon fresh sage leaves 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves 1 teaspoon fresh lavender flowers 3 egg whites 3 tablespoons cold water 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar For granita 2 cups water 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped 1 teaspoon…

  • Orange Lavender Flower Syrup

    Ingredients ½ cup honey 1 cup water ¼ cup turbinado sugar 1 tablespoon lavender flowers 1 tablespoon orange zest 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped Directions In a small sauce pan, whisk the honey, water, sugar and herbs together while bringing to a boil. Reduce heat and allow to simmer for 5 minutes, take off…

  • Raviolis with Ricotta and Mint and Orange Shallot Poppy Seed Butter and Micro Beet Greens

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese, drained 1 cup fresh goat cheese 1 tablespoon orange zest 3 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped fine 1 medium shallot, chopped fine 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper Beet Pasta (recipe follows) Orange Shallot Poppy Seed Butter (recipe follows) Olive…

  • Orange Shallot Poppy Seed Butter

    Makes 2 cups butter Ingredients 1½ sticks butter 1 medium shallot, chopped fine 1 tablespoon orange zest 12 tablespoons orange juice 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper, cracked Directions Heat all the ingredients in a small sauce pan and stir. Refrigerate until the mixture hardens. In the meantime, in a medium sauté pan, melt…

  • Fresh Beet Pasta

    Ingredients 3 medium beets, cooked, peeled and chopped fine 3 cups all-purpose flour plus additional for dusting 4 large eggs, lightly beaten 1 teaspoon salt Directions To make dough in a processor blend beets, flour, egg and salt in a food processor until mixture just begins to form a ball (dough should be firm and…

  • Radishes, Chervil Butter and Herbal Citrus Salts

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 1 stick butter (12 tablespoons) softened ½ teaspoon salt 3 tablespoon fresh chervil leaves, chopped fine 16-20 French breakfast radishes, washed and trimmed Citrus Salt (recipe follows) Directions Combine the butter, salt and chervil in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate to harden. Just prior to serving take the butter out and…

  • Spring Pea Soup with Chive Blossom Croutons and Pea Flowers

    Serves 10 Ingredients Olive oil 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 2 medium white spring onions, chopped fine 1 teaspoon lemon zest 3 cups fresh spring peas, shelled ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons sugar ¼ cup lemon juice 1⁄3 cup dry white wine 4 cups fresh spring pea stock (recipe follows)…

  • Chive Blossom Croutons

    Makes 2 cups of croutons Ingredients 2 cups cubed white bread (1½ inch cubes) 3 tablespoons melted butter 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons chive blossom flowers 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped fine ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper Directions Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and…

  • Spring Pea Stock

    Makes 4 cups Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter Olive oil 3 cloves garlic 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 bunch green onions, sliced thin, green and white parts ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves and stems 2-3 cups pods from fresh peas 4 cups water 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper Directions Melt butter in a soup pot…

  • Asparagus and Ramp Zeppole with Minted Honey

    Makes 20-30 small zeppole Ingredients 1 pound fresh ricotta, drained 3 eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 cup flour 1 cup shaved and chopped asparagus ½ cup ramps, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped Oil for frying Minted Chili Honey* Directions In a large bowl…

  • Ginger Mint Iced Tea

    Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients 1 large bunch of fresh mint leaves 1 tablespoon lemon zest ½ cup lemon juice ¼ cup fresh grated ginger 1 cup Honey Syrup* Water Directions Combine all ingredients except water in a pitcher and stir well. Add ice and then fill with water. *Honey Syrup – Whisk together 1 cup…

  • Spring Sorrel & Lemon Soda Pop

    Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients 1 cup water 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon lemon zest ½ cup lemon juice 1 large bunch fresh sorrel leaves 4-6 cups seltzer water Lemon wheel garnish Directions Combine water, sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the temperature to low and…

  • Asparagus & Mint Pesto

    Makes approximately 2½ cups Ingredients 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed (½ inch off only) and chopped ½ cup fresh mint leaves, stems removed and chopped 2 teaspoons lemon zest 2 tablespoons lemon juice ¼ cup raw almonds ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 1½ teaspoons salt Directions Place all ingredients, except the oil, in food…

  • Quick Pickled Red Onions

    Makes approximately 3 cups of pickled onions Ingredients 1½ cups water (boiling) 1½ cups citrus champagne vinegar (can substitute regular vinegar) 1 tablespoon salt ¼ cup tablespoon sugar 2 teaspoons cumin seeds Zest of 1 lime Juice of 2 limes 4 medium red onions, sliced thin ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves Directions Shake together all…

  • Cilantro Pumpkin Seed Jalapeño Pesto

    Yields approximately 2½ cups Ingredients 1½ cups fresh cilantro leaves 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon lime zest Juice of 2 limes 3 roasted jalapeños, deseeded, peeled and chopped ½ cup pumpkin seeds 1½ teaspoons salt ¼-½ cup olive oil Directions Place all ingredients, except the oil, in food processor and pulse until chopped pretty…

  • Strawberry Mint Gin Mini Pesto Elixir

    ©Nissa Pierson, Ger-Nis Culinary & Herb Center, Gowanus Brooklyn Ingredients 1 cup simple syrup ½ cup fresh mint leaves 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves 3 fresh strawberries, de-stemmed and chopped 2 teaspoons lemon zest Juice of one lemon Directions Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until a smooth pesto-like sauce is created.…

  • Ginger & Lemon Thyme Rye Mini Pesto Elixir

    ©Nissa Pierson, Ger-Nis Culinary & Herb Center, Gowanus Brooklyn Ingredients 1 cup turbinado sugar simple syrup* ½ cup fresh lemon thyme leaves 1 tablespoon mint leaves 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger 2 tablespoons lemon zest Juice of one lemon 1 ounce New York Distilling Company Rye Directions Combine all the ingredients in a blender and…

  • Russian Rhubard Grass

    ©Nissa Pierson, Ger-Nis Culinary & Herb Center, Gowanus Brooklyn Ingredients 1 bunch fresh mint 1 bunch fresh parsley 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 ounces gin (New York Distilling Company – Dorothy Parker) ½ ounce Gran Classico 1 ounce Rhubarb Pink Peppercorn Honey Nectar* ½ ounce lemon juice Lemon wheel garnish Pink Peppercorn Parsley Sugar* Brooklyn…

  • Herbal Zaiquiri

    ©Zachary Sharaga, Louis 649, Alphabet City Manhattan Ingredients 2 ounces white rum 1 ounce lime juice 1 ounce fresh sorrel simple syrup* Directions Shake all ingredients together in a shaker. Strain into a chilled flure glass. Garnish by inserting a blade of sorrel vertically into flute. (Break stem off of sorrel blade so that an…

  • My Darling Lemon Thyme

    ©Brendan Casey, Quarter Bar, South Slope Brooklyn Ingredients 1½ ounce gin (New York Distilling Company-Dorothy Parker) ½ ounce Carpano Antica Vermouth 2 drops of lavender infused green chartreuse* ½ ounce lemon thyme ½ ounce lemon thyme brown sugar syrup* Lemon peel Directions Add all the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice and double strain…

  • Bangkok Buck #2

    ©Justin Briggs, Barbes, Park Slope Brooklyn Ingredients 5-8 fresh Thai basil leaves .25 ounces demerara-ginger syrup* 2 ounces Martinique Rum Agricole or Smith & Cross .5 ounces Madeira Meio Doce (medium sweet) 1 ounce lime juice Ginger beer Candied Ginger Directions Muddle together in a mixing tin Thai basil leaves and demerara-ginger syrup. Add the…

  • Spring-Thyme Detox

    ©Rafael Hasid, Wolf & Deer, Park Slope Brooklyn Ingredients 6-8 fresh mint leaves 2 ounces vodka 1 ounce wiki-dandelion puree* 1 ounce lemon thyme & mint syrup* 1 ounce lime juice Lemon peel Meyer Lemon Brooklyn Hemispherical Bitters Directions Muddle the mint leaves in a shaker until all the oils are released from the mint.…

  • Dutch Tarrazerac

    ©Regina Christiansen, Blueprint, Park Slope Brooklyn Ingredients 25 ounces honey syrup* Brooklyn Hemispherical Icelandic Bitters 2 small fresh tarragon sprigs 2 ounces gin (New York Distilling Company-Dorothy Parker) Directions In a mixing glass combine honey syrup, 1 full dropper of Brooklyn Hemispherical Icelandic Bitters and 1 sprig of fresh tarragon. Muddle gently in order to…

  • The Reformed Presbyterian

    The Reformed Presbyterian

    Makes 1 cocktail Ingredients A few fresh mint leaves 1½ ounces bourbon ¼ ounce Gran Classico ½ ounce lime juice 1 ounce fresh ginger syrup (turbinado sugar) 1 cup sugar 2 ounces seltzer Lime peel & fresh ginger sliver garnish Directions Muddle a few mint leaves in a shaker. Add all other ingredients except for…

  • Shortbread Cookies with Winter Herbs and Dried Fruit

    Makes 3 dozen cookies Ingredients 2¼ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon coarse salt 3½ teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped fine 10 tablespoons (1¼ sticks) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons heavy cream 1 large egg ½ cup dried cherries, chopped Fine sanding sugar for sprinkling…

  • Sicilian-Style Herbed Meatballs with Herbed Polenta

    Serves 6-8 Meatballs Ingredients Olive oil 1 lb ground beef 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, ground 1 bulb garlic, chopped fine (2 tablespoons reserved for sauce) ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped fine (2 tablespoons reserved for sauce) ½ cup fresh basil, chopped fine (2 tablespoons reserved for sauce) ½ cup fresh marjoram, chopped fine (2…

  • Herbed Polenta

    Serves 6 Ingredients 6 cups water Salt 2 cups yellow or white cornmeal ½ cup parmesan, grated ½ cup milk ½ stick (4 tablespoons) butter 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped Freshly cracked black pepper Directions Bring water and salt in a heavy…

  • Kale and Apple Salad with Walnut-Herb Dressing

    Serves 6 This is an amazing take on the classic waldorf salad, its modern and sassy and showcases the earthy flavors of kale! Ingredients 3 cups raw kale (purple or lacinato), jullianned ½ cup celery, sliced thin 2 tart apples, cored and chopped small ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped coarse, plus 2 tablespoons chopped…

  • Baked Herbal Goat Cheese with Tomatoes and Kalamata Olive Bread

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 can crushed tomatoes 1 tablespoon fresh marjoram leaves, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves, chopped fine ½ teaspoon salt 4 ounces goat cheese Cracked black pepper Chopped herbs for garnish Directions Pre heat oven to 375°F. In a mixing bowl mix together tomatoes,…

  • Cranberry & Thyme Sparkler

    Serves 6 Ingredients ½ cup cranberries ½ cup sugar ½ cup water 1 few fresh thyme sprigs 1 cinnamon stick Sparkling water or sparkling wine Cranberries and thyme leaves for garnish Directions Combine the cranberries, sugar, water, fresh thyme and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan and heat to high heat. Stir until the sugar…

  • Celery Root Potage with Fried Shallots, Fresh Sage and Apple Bit Créme Fraiche and Crispy Shallots

    Serves 8 Ingredients 1 tablespoon butter 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 medium leek, sliced thin 1 medium red onion, chopped small 2 small or 1 medium celery root (2-3 pounds total), peeled and cubed small 1 medium apple, peeled, cored and chopped Salt Cracked black pepper ¼ cup apple cider…

  • Apple Bit Créme Fraiche

    Makes 1½ cups Ingredients 1 cup créme fraiche 1 medium apple, peeled, cored and chopped superfine 2 tablespoons apple cider 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest ½ teaspoon nutmeg 1 pinch of salt 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper Directions Mix together all the ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.

  • Crispy Shallots

    Ingredients ½ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons oil of choice (walnut, sesame, almond or pistachio) 1 cup shallots, sliced in thin rounds 2 teaspoons fresh herbs of choice, chopped fine Maldon salt Directions In a small skillet, heat the olive oil and oil of choice to a medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shallots and…

  • Balsamic Rosemary Honey

    Ingredients ½ cup balsamic vinegar ¼ cup honey 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped fine 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon walnuts, chopped fine (optional) Directions Whisk together all ingredients and let stand for at least 30 minutes before using.

  • Balsamic & Rosemary Honey Roasted Root Vegetables

    Serves 6 This is an amazingly “winter fresh” tasting dish! Cut and peel the roots according to your own preference and mix and match vegetables according to your local farmers and tastes! Ingredients 1 medium potato 1 rutabaga 1 turnip 1 orange beet 1 red beet 1 carrot 1 shallot 1 medium red onion 5…

  • Pan Roasted Bass with Tropical Mango Salsa and Coconut Cilantro Rice

    Serves 4 Ingredients Ger-Nis Herb Chili Pepper 1 tangerine 4 4-ounce bass fillets, skin on (no more than two inches thick) Avocado oil or olive oil 1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed small 1 cup ripe but firm mango, cubed small ¼ cup red bell pepper, chopped small ¼ cup red onion, chopped fine ¼ cup…

  • Coconut Cilantro Rice

    Serves 4 Ingredients 2 cups long white rice 2 cups coconut milk 2 cups water 2 tablespoos sugar 1 teaspoon Ger-Nis Chili Herb Pepper 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped fine Directions Combine all the ingredients, except the cilantro, into a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Once the mixture is boiling cover and reduce…

  • Citrus Shrimp Ceviche with Avocadoes & Lemon Thyme Pesto Drizzle

    Serves 4 This dish has great balance utilizing all types of citrus: limes, lemons and tangerines, and has slightly sweet herbaceous tones that blend well with the buttery-ness of the avocado. A lovely dish that is simple to prepare and exciting for your guests. Ingredients Ger-Nis Citrus Finishing Salts 1 pound medium sized shrimp, peeled…

  • Lemon Thyme Pesto Drizzle

    Makes 1 cup pesto Ingredients ¼ cup fresh lemon thyme leaves (substitute basil if you cannot find lemon thyme) ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon Ger-Nis Finishing Salt Directions Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

  • Ger-Nis Citrus Herb Cracked Black Pepper

    Makes 1 cup salts Ingredients ¼ cup maldon salt 3 tablespoons lemon zest* 1 tablespoon lime zest* 1 tablespoon orange zest* 2 teaspoons red chili flakes ½ cup black pepper corns 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped fine *Use organic unwaxed citrus, make sure…

  • Ger-Nis Citrus Herb Finishing Salt

    Makes 1 cup salts Ingredients ¾ cup maldon salt 1 tablespoon lemon zest* 1 tablespoon lime zest* 1 teaspoon orange zest* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped superfine 3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped superfine 1 tablespoon fresh lemon thyme leaves, chopped superfine *Use organic unwaxed citrus, make sure citrus and herbs are completely dry.…

  • Ras El Hanout

    Makes approximately 10 ounces Ingredients 1 nutmeg ball, crushed 1 cinnamon stick, crushed ½ tablespoon black peppercorns 1 tablespoon white peppercorns 1 tablespoon poppy seeds ½ teaspoon anise seeds 1 tablespoon coriander seeds 1 tablespoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon allspice berries 6 green cardamom pods 3 whole cloves 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds 1 teaspoon…

  • Orange Halva Ice Cream with Ros Al Hanout Brown Sugar Sauce

    Makes 4 cups Ingredients 2 cups whole milk Zest of 2 oranges ¼ cup fresh orange juice ½ cup sugar 4 egg yolks 1½ cup tahini Cup heavy cream Salt Directions In a medium sauce pan combine milk, orange zest, orange juice and sugar and bring to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer for…

  • Herbed Cous Cous

    Ingredients 2 cups Israeli couscous Olive oil 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped Salt/pepper 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon butter ¾ cup sliced crimini or brown button mushrooms 2 cups…

  • Roasted Spicy Moroccan Chicken with Figs & Carrots in Spicy Brown Butter Sauce

    Serves 4 Ingredients 6-8 pieces of chicken, drumsticks, wings, legs or breasts Salt 2 tablespoons ros al hanout, traditional or modern recipe, plus 1 tablespoon 6 medium carrots, cut in half 12-16 dried figs 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 medium red onion, chopped large 1 tablespoon orange zest ½ tablespoon lemon zest Juice of 1…

  • Moroccan Harissa Herbal Stew

    Ingredients 1 lb of lamb meat cut into 1 inch cubes 1 large yellow onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 cup chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained 5 large tomatoes, chopped 1 cup red lentils ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro ½ cup chopped fresh parsley ½ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Juice and…

  • Sweet & Spicy Harissa with Yogurt

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 8 dried guajillo chilies, stems removed, broken 5 dried red chilies, stems removed, broken 1 dried chili de arbol 1 cup boiling water 2 teaspoons cumin seeds, toasted 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, toasted 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted 4 garlic cloves ¼ cup brown sugar 1 bell pepper, roasted & peeled…

  • Lamb Puffs

    Ingredients Olive oil 1 shallot, chopped superfine 2 cloves garlic, chopped superfine ¾ pound ground lamb 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons ros al hanout mixture ¼ cup fresh mint ¼ cup fresh cilantro ¼ cup fresh parsley 1 sheet puff pastry 1 egg, beaten Directions Sauté garlic and shallots. Add the lamb and cook until…

  • Le Pruneau Homme

    Ingredients 2 ounces prune infused gin (recipe follows) 2 ounces hum liquor 1 ounce lemon juice 1 ounce cardamom ginger black pepper syrup (recipe follows) Sparkling Wine “Moroccan” Spiced Brown Sugar (recipe follows) Gin Infused Prunes Directions In a shaker filled with ice, place the gin, hum liquor, lemon juice, and syrup and shake vigorously.…

  • Prune Infused Gin

    Ingredients 1 liter of gin 12 prunes, halved Directions Place the prunes and the gin in a large mason or glass jar. Allow to infuse for about 3-4 days in a cool dark place. Remove the prunes and reserve for cocktail.

  • Cardamom Black Pepper Syrup

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1 cup turbinado sugar 1 cup water 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, cracked 5 cardamom pods, crushed (whole pod) Directions Place all the ingredients in a medium sauce pan and bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. Take off heat…

  • “Moroccan” Spiced Brown Sugar

    Makes 1 cup Ingredients 1 tablespoon Ras El Hanout (traditional recipe follows) ½ cup turbinado sugar ¼ cup brown sugar Directions Place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

  • Meyer Lemon Cupcakes with Herbal Icing

    Makes 18 cupcakes Ingredients 3 cups flour 2 cups sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon meyer lemon zest 3 sticks butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla 1¼ cups buttermilk ¼ cup meyer lemon juice 4 eggs Herbal Icing Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 2 piece muffin tins.…

  • Meyer Lemon Herbal Icing

    Makes 1½ cups Ingredients 1 cup powdered sugar ¼ cup meyer lemon juice 2 teaspoons fresh mint, chopped fine 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped fine 2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped fine Directions Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.

  • Meyer Lemon Infused Finishing Salts

    Makes ½ cup Ingredients ½ cup maldon Zest of 2 Meyer lemons Directions Combine ingredients in a small bowl, and place in a mason jar or other air tight container. Use on chicken, fish, salads, or grilled, steamed or sautéed vegetables.

  • Herbed Gremolata

    Makes approximately ½ cup Ingredients ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh marjoram, chopped fine 3 cloves garlic, chopped superfine 3 tablespoons lemon zest (meyer lemon) 1 teaspoon maldon salt ½ teaspoon red chili flakes ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional)…

  • Linguini with Sardines and Meyer Lemon Gremolata

    Serves 6 Ingredients 16 ounces linguini, cooked Olive oil 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 shallot, chopped fine 1 teaspoon red chili flakes 1 tablespoon meyer lemon zest 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped fine ½ cup meyer lemon slices, chopped small 2 cans sardines packed in oil, drained and oil reserved ¼ cup white wine…

  • Meyer Lemon Chicken Salad Sandwiches

    Serves 4 Ingredients ½ cup créme fraiche Juice and zest of 1 Meyer lemon ¼ cup of chopped parsley, chives and basil (in total) Pinch of salt and pepper 1 cup of roasted chicken, cubed or shredded Directions Mix ½ cup créme fraiche and the juice and zest of one Meyer lemon together with ¼…

  • Sweet Ricotta Gnocchi with Dates, Walnuts & Honey Cream

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 pound ricotta, drained overnight 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 pinch of cinnamon 1 cup flour ½ cup heavy cream ½ cup milk ½ cup honey ½ teaspoon vanilla ½ cup dates, chopped ½ cup walnuts, chopped Cinnamon, freshly grated Directions In a medium mixing bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients…

  • Potato Gnocchi

    Makes 2 pounds Gnocchi Ingredients 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and baked 1 egg, lightly beaten 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt Directions Mash the potatoes and push through a ricer or food mill. Place the smooth potatoes in a mound on a cutting board. Drizzle a little more than half the egg…

  • Baked Gnocchi with Butternut Squash & Bacon in a Sage Cream Sauce

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 pound Potato Gnocchi, cooked (recipe follows) 1½ cups butternut squash, roasted, peeled and cubed small 3 slices bacon, fried and crumbled 1 cup purple or Tuscan kale, chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped fine ½ cup heavy cream ½ cup parmesan cheese, finely grated 3 tablespoons butter, cubed Salt Pepper…

  • Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Brown Butter Sauce and Shaved Chestnuts

    Serves 8 Ingredients 3 (1¼ lbs) Yukon gold potatoes 1 (¾ lb) sweet potato 1½ to 2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting 1 large egg ½ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated Salt Freshly ground pepper 1⁄3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano plus more for serving ½ stick unsalted butter 1 cup sage leaves (from 1 bunch)…

  • Anna Klinger’s Malfatti (Ricotta and Swiss Chard Dumplings)

    Serves 6 We are extermely blessed here at Ger-Nis Culinary & Herb Center to be neighbots of Chef Anna Klinger and Al Di La. Her Malfatti Dumplings are divine and renown throughout New York City and beyond. Ingredients 1 pound ricotta 4 bunches Swiss Chard, stemmed, chopped and blanched 2 sticks (16 tablespoons) unsalted butter…

  • Pain Au Chocolate

    Makes 12 This version gives a shortcut to the traditional sweet Parisian breakfast treat by using already prepared puff pastry. Ingredients 1 egg, beaten 1 tablespoon water 1 package puff pastry, cut into 12 rectangles 1 package puff pastry, cut into 12 rectangles 18 ounces bitter sweet dark chocolate, thin bards, cut into 1½ ounce…

  • Pear & Almond Clafouti

    Serves 6 Traditionally a clafouti is French dessert made with black cherries in an excessively buttered dish in a cakey almond pudding like batter, baked and dusted with powdered sugar. This version is adapted form Julia Child’s clafouti recipe and utilizes almonds and pears. Ingredients 3 bosc pears, cored and sliced thin (peels left on)…

  • Ginger Apple Tart Tatin

    Serves 8-10 Traditional Tart Tatin are made with apples and is essentially an upside down pie! Ingredients 1½ cups flour 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar ½ teaspoon cardamom, ground 2 sticks (16 tablespoons) unsalted butter, 1 stick cubed and ice cold the other room temperature 4-6 tablespoons ice cold water 5 medium tart apples (pink ladies,…

  • Bay Leaf Créme Brulee

    Makes 6 ramekins One of the most traditional of the French desserts a rich custard with a glass like burnt sugar topping! Ingredients 2 cups of whole milk 2 cups of heavy cream 12 fresh bay leaves 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped out (seeds reserved) 3 large eggs 5 large egg yolks ¾…

  • Peruvian Pappas Rellenos with Peruvian Cilantro Sauce

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 2 pound russet potatoes, peeled, cooked and mashed 2 tablespoons butter 2 eggs 2 tablespoons milk ¼ cup flour 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped fine 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon black pepper Oil for frying 3 hard boiled eggs, quartered ½ pound ground beef, cooked (sautéed with ½ white onion, chopped fine,…

  • Spicy Peruvian Cilantro Sauce

    Makes 2-3 cups Ingredients 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves 2 cloves garlic, chopped ½ small white onion ¼ cup avocado oil ¼ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste Juice of 1 lime ¼ cup hot water (more as needed) Directions Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and…

  • Chicken & Herb Dumpling Soup

    Serves 6 Ingredients 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons butter 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 medium red onion, chopped small 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2 inch strips, lightly dusted with whole wheat flour 1 bunch green onions, sliced 3 stalks of celery, chopped small 2 medium carrots, chopped small 1…

  • Herb Dumplings

    Ingredients 1 cup flour 1½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed very small ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped fine Directions In a mixing bowl combine dry ingredients and stir well. Add butter and using…