Author: Nissa

  • Spiced (Right) Cranberry Pear Coffee Cake

    Spiced (Right) Cranberry Pear Coffee Cake

    Makes 1 large round cake Ingredients For the crumb 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cardamom ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon salt ¾ cup chopped nuts (ideally pecans) 1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter, melted 2 large pears, cored and cubed…

  • Carrot & Mango Chicken Mole

    INGREDIENTS 3 grilled carrots, chopped 10 dried guajillo chilies, washed 1 ½ pounds ripey ellow  tomatoes, coarsely chopped 1 large yellow onion, coarsely chopped 6 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped 1 tbsp. dried oregano, crumbled 1 tbsp. dried epazote, crumbled 1 tablespoon annatto seeds ¼ teaspoon allspice 1 stick canela (Mexican cinnamon) 4 whole peppercorns…

  • Tropical Mango Ceviche

    Tropical Mango Ceviche

    Serves 6 -8 INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons orange juice Juice of 5 to 6 limes ¼ cup coconut milk 1 tabblespoon salt 2 pounds whitefish filets, cut into bite sized pieces 1 medium red onion, chopped fine 1 red pepper, chopped fine 1 red jalapeno, deseeded and chopped fine 1 medium mango ( semi ripe) chopped…

  • Ceviche de Sierra (Mazatlan)

    Ceviche de Sierra    (Mazatlan)

    Serves 8-10 INGREDIENTS 2 pounds skinless mackerel fillets, roughly chopped 2 teaspoons salt 1 cup lime juice 5-6 medium carrots, roughly chopped 1 small red onions, roughly chopped 1 small cucumber, peeled and roughly chopped 1 serrano pepper, desseded, pith removed, roughly chopped 1 tablespoon fresh chopped oregano PREPARATION Process the fish in a food…

  • Agua Chili De Cameron (Shrimp Agua Chili Ceviche- Mazatlan)

    Agua Chili De Cameron (Shrimp Agua Chili Ceviche- Mazatlan)

    Serves 6-8 INGREDIENTS 20-24 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, preferably butterflied ¾ cup lime juice ½ cup water 2 Serrano peppers, deseeded, piths removed, roughly chopped 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 ½ teaspoons salt 2 english cucumbers, peeled and sliced thin 1 small to medium red onion, halved and sliced thin PREPARATION Combine…

  • Mango Piña Colada

    Mango Piña Colada

    Makes one Gallon INGREDIENTS 1 ½ cups fresh chopped mango 1 ½ cups fresh chopped pineapple 1 cup mango pit mixer 1 cup coconut cream 1 tablespoon coconut extract 1 cups lime juice 3 cups water PREPARATION Blend all of the ingredients in a blender in batches and mix into a gallon jug. Add rum…

  • GER-NIS CITRUS CILANTRO CHILI SALT

    GER-NIS CITRUS CILANTRO CHILI SALT

    Makes 1 cup salt Ingredients ¾ cup maldon salt 1 tablespoon lemon zest* 1 tablespoon lime zest* 1 teaspoon orange zest* 2 tablespoons fresh Cilantro leaves, chopped superfine 3 tablespoons fresh parlsey leaves, chopped superfine 1 jalepeno, desseded, chopped superfine *Use organic unwaxed citrus, make sure citrus and herbs are completely dry. Directions Preheat oven…

  • Red Dandelion Green Goddess Dressing

    Red Dandelion Green Goddess Dressing

    Makes 3 cups   Ingredients 1 cup buttermilk (make your own, combine 1 cup milk and 2 T lemon juice- let stand for 5 minutes) 3/4 cup mayo  3 cloves garlic  chopped) 1-2 teaspoons lemon zest juice of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar 4-5 white anchovies (can use regular but it’s not as bight…

  • Shakshuka ( North African Poached Eggs)

    Shakshuka ( North African Poached Eggs)

    Serves 6 Ingredients Olive oil 2 green or red chilies (as spicy as you want your dish to be, use mild chilies for no heat) 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 yellow onion, chopped fine ¼ cup green onions, sliced thin 1 teaspoon cumin 1 tablespoon smoky paprika 1 teaspoon salt 1teaspoon black pepper 1…

  • Cheese & Potato Bourekas

    Cheese & Potato Bourekas

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 cup mashed potatoes 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup chopped fine red onion 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tablespoons chopped fine fresh mint leaves 2 tablespoons chopped fine fresh parsley leaves 1 tablespoon olive oil ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 2 eggs 1 (14-16ounce) package puff pastry sheets…

  • Fresh Grapefruit and Fennel Juice or Cocktail

    Fresh Grapefruit and Fennel Juice or Cocktail

    Makes a few drinks…. Ingredients 1 fennel bulbs, tops attached 3 ruby red grapefruits 1.5 ounces vodka (optional) Directions Using a juicer, juice the fennel and set aside.  Juice the grapefruit using a citrus juice and combine the fennel and grapefruit juice and chill. Drink over ice, with our without vodka!

  • Pot Sticker Dough

    Pot Sticker Dough

    Makes enough for 20 potstickers Ingredients 2 cups all purpose flour 1 cup boiling water 1/2 teaspoon salt Directions In a medium bowl, mix  together the flour, water and salt until the dough is combined.  Turn out on a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-8 minutes or until super soft and pliable.  Let…

  • Kale Pesto

    Makes 2-3 cups pesto Ingredients 2 cups chopped fresh kale leaves, stems removed ¼ cup water 3 cloves garlic 2 teaspoons lemon zest (optional) juice of 1 lemon ¼ cup chopped yellow onion 2/3 -1 cup extra virgin olive oil chopped fresh red chili (options for heat lovers) 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon fresh black…

  • ORGANIC LOCAL RICOTTA CHEESE + ORGANIC VEGGIES FROM EARLS = BEST ORGANIC VEGGIE RICOTTA LASAGNA!

    ORGANIC LOCAL RICOTTA CHEESE  + ORGANIC VEGGIES FROM EARLS  = BEST ORGANIC VEGGIE RICOTTA LASAGNA!

    Enjoy this recipe inspired by the connection  two organic and sustainable food folks have made! Ingredients Olive oil 4 cloves organic garlic, chopped fine 2 medium organic yellow, onions, chopped small 2 medium organic carrots, chopped small 2 medium organic green zucchini, chopped small 1 cup organic broccoli florets, cut super small 8 medium organic…

  • Fresh Mango Margarita (Rocks)

    Fresh Mango Margarita (Rocks)

    Makes a few cocktails…. Ingredients 3 ripe mangoes, peeled, deseeded and chopped Zest of 1 lime Juice of 2 limes Juice of 1 orange 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup hot water  tequila Blanco Coarse salt Limes for garnish and taste Directions Mix together in a blender ( or with a hand held emulsifier) mangoes, lime…

  • Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado and Tortilla Chips

    Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado and Tortilla Chips

    Serves 2 -4 1 teaspoon super finely, chopped ginger 2 garlic cloves, chopped superfine 1 teaspoon orange zest, plus juice of one orange 1 teaspoon lime zest, plus juice of one lime ¼ cup yuzu rice vinegar ¼ cup tamari sauce 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce 2 tablespoons sesame oil ½ medium red onion, chopped superfine…

  • Mexican Samurai

    Mexican Samurai

    Makes 1 cocktail 2 ounces (really good quality) Anejo Tequila ½ ounce Domaine de Canton Ginger Liquor 1 ounce Ginger, Mango & Chili Syrup* Juice of 1 Lime Sake (ice cold and preferable a floral dry type) Chili Pepper Cilantro – Lime Garnish* In a shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, ginger liquor, syrup…

  • Parsley & Lemon – Ricotta Cupcakes

    Parsley & Lemon – Ricotta Cupcakes

    Makes 6 large cupcakes Ingredients 2 cups all purpose flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt ¾ cup turbinado sugar 3 tablespoons lemon zest 3 tablespoons chopped fine, parsley 1 stick butter ( salted) softened ¾ cup ricotta cheese 1 egg juice of three lemons Directions Heat oven to 350…

  • Nissa’s “Ecuadorian” Beauty Bar

    Nissa’s Beauty Ecuadorian Beauty Bar Party Food Menu Mango Summer Rolls with Spicy Satay and Hoisin Sauce Cold Vietnamese Vegetable & Buckwheat Noodle Salad Balaneese Jakut Urub Salad Ginger Chili Mint Pickles Thai Ginger Cooler with Chili Mint Pesto HERBAL GARDEN SUMMER ROLLS Makes 12 rolls Ingredients 12 rice paper wrappers 1 head boston lettuce…

  • Peas, Potatoes and Yuerba Buena Harissa

    Peas, Potatoes and Yuerba Buena Harissa

    Serves 4 An accidental combination of the best kind, this dish is inspired by Salatata Batata al Tunis (Tunisian Potato Salad), and uses some of the fresh and vibrant local ingredients that I found here in Ecuador;  baby potatoes, peas , spicy red chilies and yerba Buena.  The spice mixture is a little plainer in…

  • Rosemary & Concord Ginger Shortbread with Fairy Dust

    Rosemary  & Concord  Ginger Shortbread with Fairy Dust

    Makes 6 dozen cookies Ingredients 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon coarse salt 1  teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped fine 10 tablespoons (1 ¼ sticks) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons heavy cream 2 tablespoons Concord Grape Ginger Jam ( Recipe Follows) 1 large…

  • Tunisian Fresh Mint Tea with Pine Nuts

    Tunisian Fresh Mint Tea with Pine Nuts

    Ingredients 1 cup fresh mint leaves Honey Hot water Pine nuts Directions In a tea cup place 4-10 fresh mint leaves and fill with hot water.  Add honey to taste and place 4-8 pine nuts on the top.

  • Fresh Dates, Mint Infused Honey & Ricotta

    Fresh Dates, Mint Infused Honey & Ricotta

    Serves 6 The dessert is one that combines the love of fresh dates with the amazing ricotta and honey found throughout the Middle East, the tea, purely a Tunisian thing, interesting and quite good. Ingredients ½ cup honey 1/2  cup water 24 fresh Deglet Nuir or Medjul dates, pitted 2 cups fresh ricotta Directions In…

  • Arabic Salad

    Arabic Salad

    Serves 6 The secret to success of this classic Middle Eastern recipe is small/tiny uniform pieces. They catch the flavors better and ensure the exceptional fresh taste with the prefect ratio of flavors! Each region has their own variation of this recipe, my favorite is probably the Lebanese version which is very herbaceous. Ingredients 4…

  • Fresh Za’Atar and Warm Pita

    Fresh Za’Atar and Warm Pita

    Serves 4 A fresh and bright take on the classic dried Za’atar, perfect on warm pita with labneh cheese!  Be bold and make your own labneh, its easy. Ingredients 1 clove garlic, chopped superfine 2 tablespoons fresh summer savory leaves, chopped fine 1/3 cup fresh lemon thyme leaves, chopped fine 1 teaspoon sumac powder 1…

  • Tunisian Potato & Herb Salad with Harissa and Yogurt

    Tunisian Potato & Herb Salad with Harissa and Yogurt

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 pounds yellow potatoes, cooked and cubed or cut in approx ½ inch cubes (peels on or off) 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped 1 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped 1 teaspoon salt Cracked black pepper ¼-½  cup extra virgin Olive Oil Yogurt Fresh Mint Harissa (…

  • Middle Eastern Frozen Lemonade

    Makes enough for your freezer to make a few pitchers This is a take on the classic Middle Eastern frozen mint lemonade that is found throughout all parts of the Middle East, fresh and cold and always delightful.  This recipe allows for ease in the summer as you through the ice cubes in the blender…

  • Yemini Zhug with Grilled Halloumii

    Yemini Zhug with Grilled Halloumii

    Serves 6 Ingredients ½  teaspoon coriander seeds, toasted 1 teaspoon rainbow pepper corns, toasted 1 cardamom pod, cracked and toasted 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, toasted ½  teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted 2 teaspoons salt 3 cloves garlic 2 cups cilantro leaves 4 -6 hot green chilies, chopped (any type is fine- Serrano, jalapeño, cayenne a combination…

  • Cinnamon Basil Grilled Plums and Sichuan Pepper Ice Cream & Toasted Quinoa Spiced Crumble

    Cinnamon Basil Grilled Plums and Sichuan Pepper Ice Cream &  Toasted Quinoa Spiced Crumble

    Serves 6-8 , makes 1 quart Ingredients 2 tablespoons fresh cinnamon basil, chopped fine 2-3 tablespoons turbinado sugar 2 teaspoons  Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 1 teaspoon pink salt 2 pounds red flesh plums, halved ½ cup of honey or cinnamon basil syrup  ( Field Apothecary) 2 cups heavy cream Toasted Quinoa Spiced Crumble Directions On a…

  • Holy Basil Nectarine Sparkler

    Ingredients 1 ripe nectarine ½ cup water 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon lime zest 1 tablespoon lime juice 2 tablespoons holy basil laves ¼ cup elderflower liquor Cava Basil Sugared Nectarines* Directions Make a simple syrup but thicker like a puree syrup with the nectarines water and honey, let cool.  Blend with fresh basil, lime…

  • Blackberry Holy Basil Rose Summer Sparkler

    Ingredients ½ cup blackberries ½ cup water 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon lemon zest 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons holy basil laves ¼ cup elderflower liquor Sparkling Rose Lemony Basil Sugar* Directions Make a simple syrup but thicker like a puree syrup with the blackberries water and honey, let cool.  Blend with fresh basil,…

  • Black Olive, Parsley & Caper Chimichurri

    Makes 1 ½ cups Ingredients ½ medium red onion, chopped fine ½ small red shallot, chopped fine ¼ cup capers, chopped coarsely ½ cup calamata olive, chopped coarsely 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped fine 1 teaspoon lemon zest ¼ cup olive oil ¼ cup red wine vinegar ( lighter)…

  • Blackberry Sage Agua Fresca Sparkler ( Spiked with Elderflower Liquor and Linoncello)

    Makes  1 small mason jar of mix Ingredients ¼  cup blackberry puree ¼ cup blackberry sage syrup* ½ cup lemon juice ¼  cup limoncello ¼ cup elderflower liquor Sparkling RoseLemony Sage Sugar* Sage Leaf Directions Place all the ingredients except sparking rose and sugar in a blender and blend until smooth.  Strain and chill.  Place…

  • Watermelon Agua Fresca Slushy (Spiked with Tequila)

    Makes 1 pitcher 1 ½ cup  jalapeño Infused Tequila* 1/2  cup  Sweet Cilantro Syrup* 2 cups  frozen watermelon chunks 1 cup water ½  cup fresh lime juice Sugared Jalapenos* Place all the  ingredients except the Sugared Jalapenos in a blender and blend until smooth and slushy.  Pour into a glass and garnish with a Sugared…

  • Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca (Spiked with Gin)

    Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca (Spiked with Gin)

    Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients 1 cup Serrano simple syrup* 2 cup waters 3 cucumbers, peeled and chopped 1/2  cup lime juice 2 tablespoons mint Zest of 2 limes Pinch of salt Ice 1 ½ -2 cups Farmers Organic Gin Cucumber Slice Garnish Minted Lime Salt Garnish ( optional)* Directions Place the simple syrup, cucumbers, zest,…

  • Herstarr Honeydew Popsicles

    Herstarr Honeydew Popsicles

    This recipe was invented by none other than Svea Herstarr Pierson, when on a  hot summer week in Southern California the Pierson’s came together and got a dud honeydew melon.  Svea stepped up for the picky Pierson palette and with the  un-wasteful gene embedded in her, created these healthy, simple and totally delicious, not to…

  • Rhubarb & Mint (Green) Iced Tea

    Makes 1 large pitcher This is a refreshing a light, iced tea perfectly balanced and thirst quenching on a hot summer day. Ingredients 4-6 rhubarb stalks, medium length, chopped ½ cup turbinado sugar or honey 1 tablespoon lime zest 1 cup water2 bags of green tea 2 tablespoons fresh mint Juice of 1 lime Ice…

  • Blackberry-Sage Fumé

    Blackberry-Sage Fumé

    Sweet and Smoky is the jest of this one. An intoxicating and powerful drink, its silky and sultry texture with its sweet and smoky vibe, allows one to forget the intoxication factor while experiencing summer’s luscious blackberry offerings. Makes one drink Ingredients 1 ounce tequila  blanca (*Espolon) 1 ounce mescal (*Del Maguey Minero) 1 ounce…

  • Fresh Mint Harissa

    Fresh Mint Harissa

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 2 dried guajillo chilies, stems removed, broken 2 dried red chilies, stems removed, broken 2 teaspoons cumin seeds, toasted 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, toasted 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted 2 teaspoons rainbow peppercorns, toasted 3 garlic cloves 1 bell pepper, roasted & peeled 2 red (fresh) jalapeno peppers, roasted & peeled  1 tablespoon…

  • Seared Scallops with Spring Herbs & Greens Butter /Israeli Shug Butter

    Sea scallops are labeled two ways, wet and dry. Dry sea scallops have not been treated with the solution STP (sodium tripolyphosphate) which is added to make the scallops retain a high moisture content and ultimately helps commercial seafood counters get a longer shelf life than should be recommended. It also makes the scallops weigh…

  • Ginger Ice Cream with Chai Spiced Oven Caramelized Blood Oranges and Pistachios

    Ginger Ice Cream  with Chai Spiced Oven Caramelized Blood Oranges and Pistachios

    Serves 5 Ingredients For the ice cream 2 eggs 1 cup turbinado sugar 1 cup heavy cream 2 cups whole milk 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, chopped fine (chopped not grated) For the topping 1 vanilla bean, split, scraped and cut into pieces 3 blood oranges, halved and sliced…

  • Lemon Risotto with Spring Greens Butter

    Serves 5 Ingredients 5 cups spring seasoning essence water * water  seasoned with the following: 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper corns, 2-3 lemon ends or slices, 1 garlic clove, smashed, fennel fronds or a few greens ends and tips fine, 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 shallot, chopped fine 1½ cups Arborio rice…

  • Scallop Crudo Lemon Shooters

    Scallop Crudo Lemon Shooters

    Chili Mint Scallop Crudo with Shaved Baby Fennel and Ginger Serves 6 Ingredients 6 large scallops, (side muscle removed) and sliced thin and cut into strips 2 teaspoons salt Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lime Juice of ½ orange 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon…

  • Grapefruit & Fennel Frond Soda

    Grapefruit Fennel Frond Soda Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and chopped fine ½ cup sugar ¾ cup water 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice ½ cup fresh fennel juice (juiced with fennel fronds)  Ice Seltzer water Directions In a medium sauce pan combine the mint, ginger, sugar…

  • Yemini Zhug

    Yemini Zhug

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients ½  teaspoon coriander seeds, toasted 1 teaspoon rainbow pepper corns, toasted 1 cardamom pod, cracked and toasted 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, toasted ½  teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted 2 teaspoons salt 3 cloves garlic2 cups cilantro leaves 4 -6 hot green chilies, chopped (any type is fine- Serrano, jalapeño, cayenne a combination…

  • Roasted Tomato & Red Lentil Soup with FIRE HOT Yemini Zhug

    Roasted Tomato & Red Lentil Soup with FIRE HOT Yemini Zhug

    Serves 6 Ingredients ½  teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon rainbow pepper corns 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1-2 cups red cherry tomatoes, halved 4 cloves garlic, chopped course 1 medium shallot, chopped fine 2 teaspoons smoked paprika ( Turkish variety if you can get your hands on it!)2 teaspoons salt 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups…

  • Stone Barns Winter Greenhouse Salad with Toasted Black Quinoa & Buttermilk Herb Ranch

    Combine your favorite greens and vegetables and toss with fresh herbal buttermilk ranch.  Toast some black quinoa and sprinkle on top ( Toasted Quinoa- place in a skillet on high heat and let roll around in the pan until toasted about 2 minutes) Buttermilk Herb Ranch Makes approx 1 ½ cups Ingredients ½ cup mayonnaise…

  • Fresh Carrot & Lime Sodas

    Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and chopped fine ½ cup sugar ¾ cup water 1 cup fresh carrot juice 1 cup fresh lime juice Ice Seltzer water Directions In a medium sauce pan combine the mint, ginger, sugar and water.  Bring to a boil while stirring…

  • Winter Herb Soup Sticks

    Makes 24 bread sticks Ingredients Basic Pizza Dough (Ger-Nis) 2 clove garlic, chopped fine 1 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped fine 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped fine ¼ cup parmesan, grated 1 tablespoon black quinoa, toasted Maldon salt (flake sea salt) Directions Pre-heat oven…

  • Soy Nut Pesto

    Makes 1 ½ c pesto. Ingredients 2 cloves garlic 1/2 cup roasted, unsalted soy nuts 2-3 cups chopped fresh basil leaves ¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 tsp lemon zest 2 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon salt Directions Mix all ingredients with an immersion blender, blender or food processor until smooth.

  • Winter Herbal Pasta E Fagoili Soup with Fresh Pesto

    Serves 8 -12 Ingredients 3 tablespoons olive oil ½ yellow onion, chopped small 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine 2 carrots, chopped medium 2 celery ribs, sliced thin 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves 1-2 bay leaves 2 teaspoons salt, plus…

  • Rosemary & Roasted Parsnip Maple Sodas with Rosemary Pixie Dust

    2 parsnips, chopped ¼ cup turbinado or raw sugar 3 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves 1 cup water Seltzer water *Rosemary Pixie Dust Directions Pre-heat oven to 390°F. In a mixing bowl combine the parsnips, sugar, maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves, then toss together until coated and mixed. Arrange…

  • Marinated Mini Mozzarella Balls with Fresh Herbs and Spices

    Fresh Mozzarella Makes 1 pound of fresh mozzarella Ingredients & Equipment Large plastic bins Large class or stainless steel bowls Wooden spoons Heavy duty rubber dishwashing cloves (heat proof) 1 pound cheese curds water ¼ cup salt Directions In a large sauce pot over high heat, bring water to a boil.  Place a large tub filled with…

  • Ginger-Beet Orange Sodas

    Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients ¼ cup tarragon leaves, chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and chopped fine ½ cup sugar ¾ cup water 1 medium beet, scrubbed 6 oranges, peeled IceSeltzer water Directions In a medium sauce pan combine the tarragon, ginger, sugar and water.  Bring to a boil while stirring to dissolve all…

  • Grapefruit Fennel Salty Dog

    Grapefruit Fennel Salty Dog

    Ingredients Grapefruit Zest  Pink Rim Salt* Ice3  ounces vodka 4 ounces fresh grapefruit fennel juice ( 1 grapefruit, ¼ cup fennel, handful of fennel fronds) Directions Place the zested salt on a small flat plate, moisten the entire circular rim of a highball glass and then gently dip the rim in the salt until the…

  • Carambola Cel-Star

    Ingredients 2 ½  ounces  fresh star fruit and celery juice ( 1 star fruit, 2 stalks celery, leaves and all) 2 ounces Titos vodka ½ ounce lime juice ½ ounce lovage and lemon thyme syrup* Star Fruit Garnish Brooklyn Hemispherical Lemon Bitters The Bitter Truth Celery Bitters Directions In a large glass filled with ice,…

  • The (Grape) Pickled Pepper

    Ingredients 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, cracked 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds 1 cinnamon stick 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves ¾ cup aged white balsamic vinegar ¼ cup water¾ cup turbinado sugar ½ teaspoon pink salt 1 ½ cups red or black grapes 1 ounce fresh red or black grape juice (juicer) 2 ounces Brueckelen Distilling…

  • Mediterranean Olive & Bay Leaf Chimichurri with Fried Lemon Peels And Chilies

    Mediterranean Olive & Bay Leaf Chimichurri with Fried Lemon Peels And Chilies

    Makes 1 cup A lovely take on Chimichurri, with fried lemon peels and bay leave to intoxicate  with Mediterranean flavors.  Excellent on steak and fish. Ingredients 2-3 tablespoons olive oil 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 medium shallot, chopped fine 1 fresh red chili pepper, chopped ( deseeded and de-pithed for less heat) 3-4 fresh…

  • Oven Caramelized Citrus Sundaes with Vanilla and Sage

    Serves 4 Ingredients 1 lemon, halved and sliced 1 lime, halved and sliced 1 mandarin orange, halved and sliced 10 kumquats, halved 1 cup demerara sugar Handful of fresh sage leaves 1 fresh vanilla bean, split Vanilla Ice Cream Directions Pre heat oven to 400° F. In a large bowl combine all the citrus halved…

  • Winter Roasted Marinara

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped large 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 3 cups, sugar plum cherry tomatoes, halved 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped fine 2-3 broccoli stems, peeled and chopped fine ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons, fresh oregano leaves 1 tablespoons fresh marjoram leaves ½ cup kalamata olives,…

  • Roasted Cilantro Onion Sauce

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 2 cloves, garlic, chopped 1 medium small white onion, chopped large ¼ cup avocado oil ¼ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste) Juice of 1 lime, plus juice of another Zest of 1 lime 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves ¼ cup hot water (more as needed) Directions Pre…

  • Seasonal Roasted Tacos with Roasted Cilantro-Onion Sauce

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed 2 cups cauliflower florets 1 medium red onion, chopped ¼ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped 1 cup purple kale leaves, stems removed and chopped fine 1-2 dried chipotle peppers, crushed or chopped fine Salt/pepper Avocado oil 6 sprouted corn tortillas Chipotle cheddar or pepper jack cheese,…

  • Roasted Cauliflower and Farro Salad with Parsley Vinaigrette

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 cups cauliflower, cut into small florets 1 red pepper, chopped Olive oil Salt/pepper 1 cup Tuscan kale or purple kale, sliced thin 1 small red onion, chopped small 2 cups cooked farro ¼ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped small ¼ cup almonds, toasted and chopped 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or white…

  • Maple & Roasted Parsnip Soda with Rosemary Dust

    Ingredients 2 parsnips, chopped ¼ cup turbinado or raw sugar 3 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves 1 cup water Soda Water Directions Pre-heat oven to 390°F. In a mixing bowl combine the parsnips, sugar, maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves, toss together until coated and mixed. Arrange the parsnips on…

  • Oven Caramelized Citrus Sundaes with Vanilla and Sage

    Serves 4 Ingredients 1 lemon, halved and sliced 1 lime, halved and sliced 1 mandarin orange, halved and sliced 10 kumquats, halved 1 cup demerara sugar Handful of fresh sage leaves 1 fresh vanilla bean, split Vanilla Ice Cream Directions Pre heat oven to 400° F.  In a large bowl combine all the citrus halved…

  • Salsify Orange Negroni

    Ingredients 1 ounce Seneca Drums Gin (Finger Lakes Distilling Co.) 1 ounce Cynar ½ ounce *Salsify Orange Syrup ½ ounce Amberthorn Dry Vermouth (New York Astby Co) Oven Dried Salsify Stick Garnish For the Salsify Orange Syrup: 2 salsify roots, chopped 1 cup water Juice of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange ½ cup sugar…

  • Oven Dried Salsify Sticks

    Ingredients 2-3 salsify roots, scrubbed but not peeled 1 tablespoon cynar 1 tablespoon orange juice 2 teaspoons orange zest ½ tablespoon coarse sugar Directions Pre-heat oven to 225°F. With a vegetable peeler, peel off thin long layers of the salsify root. Mix the salsify root peels with the cynar, the orange juice, the orange zest…

  • El Romero- Italian Celery Root Citrus Coolers

    Ingredients 1 lemon, halved and sliced thin 1 lime, halved and sliced thin 1 orange, halved and sliced thin 1 mandarin, halved and sliced thin 8 kumquats, halved 1 medium celery root, peeled and cubed small 2-3 kaffir lime leaves 1 bottle Dorothy Parker Gin (New York Distilling Co.) *Rosemary Sugar Salt *Rosemary Syrup Fresh…

  • Fresh Apple Shrub

    Ingredients 2 tart apples, peeled and chopped ½ cup raw or turbinado sugar 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar 1 teaspoon caraway seeds ¾ cup apple cider vinegar Directions Mash together the apples, sugars, and caraway seeds until a rough applesauce has been formed. Place the mixture in a mason jar and let sit over night…

  • Swedish Apple-Rottabagge

    Ingredients 1 bottle of aquavit 1 rutabaga, cubed (about 2 cups worth max) Lemon juice *Caraway Syrup Fresh Apple Shrub Soda Water Apple Slice Garnish For the Caraway Syrup: 2 tablespoons caraway seeds, toasted 1 piece lemon peel ½ cup water ½ cup sugar Directions In a large mason jar, combine the aquavit and the…

  • Sweet Potato Mash

    Ingredients 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed small 1 vanilla bean 1 cinnamon stick 1 bottle Basil Hayden’s Bourbon Whiskey *Balsamic Syrup *Black Pepper Sugared Pecans For the Balsamic Syrup: ½ cup balsamic vinegar (high quality) For the Black Pepper Sugared Pecans: 1 tablespoon butter ½ cup pecans 1 tablespoon raw or turbinado sugar 2…

  • Quick Pickled Turnips

    Makes 3 cups Ingredients 2 cups water ¾ cup white vinegar 3 tablespoon kosher salt 2 fresh bay leaves 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, cracked 3-4 turnips, peeled and chopped 1 turnip, peeled and sliced in wheels 1 red beet slice 3 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced thin Directions In a small sauce pan combine the…

  • The Dirty Turnip

    Ingredients 3 ounces gin ½ ounce dry vermouth ½ ounce pickled turnip brine Pickled Turnip Wheels Cilantro leaves for garnish Directions In a glass filled with ice, add the gin and vermouth and stir. Add the turnip brine liquid and strain into a martini glass. Place one pickled turnip wheel to float on the top…

  • Ginger-Beet Cava with Fresh Tarragon Orange Zest

    Ingredients 2 orange beets, peeled and chopped 1 sprig of fresh tarragon, a few leaves reserved Juice of 1 orange 1 tablespoon of orange zest ¼ cup sugar ½ cup water Champagne or sparkling wine 1 navel orange for garnish Directions Combine the beets, tarragon, orange juice, zest, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan…

  • Maple & Roasted Parsnip Champagne with Rosemary Dust

    Ingredients 2 parsnips, chopped ¼ cup turbinado or raw sugar 3 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves 1 cup water Champagne or sparkling wine Directions Pre-heat oven to 390°F. In a mixing bowl combine the parsnips, sugar, maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves, then toss together until coated and mixed. Arrange…

  • Sprouted Corn Roasted Squash Breakfast Tacos with Peruvian Cilantro Sauce

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 2 cups winter squash, cubed ½ inch ½ red onion, chopped medium ½ red bell pepper, chopped small 1 chipoltle chili pepper, crumbles Salt and pepper Avocado oil 2 cups spinach leaves 6 eggs Sprouted corn tortillas Peruvian Cilantro Sauce Directions Pre heat oven to 400° F. In a large bowl, toss…

  • “Baja Style” Spicy Purple Kale Pesto Sauce

    Makes 2 cups pesto Ingredients ¼ cup pumpkin seeds, toasted 2 cups purple kale, stems removed and chopped 2 cloves garlic ¼ cup red onion, chopped fine ½ cup avocado or olive oil Zest of 1 lime, juice of two 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 jalapeño, chopped (seeds…

  • Pan Fried (Herbal) Cod Tacos with “Baja Style” Spicy Purple Kale Pesto Sauce and Pickled Red Cabbage

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 2 cups red cabbage, shredded Juice of 2 limes 2 teaspoons salt 4 pieces of cod, local & sustainable Salt and pepper 2 eggs, beaten 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped superfine 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped superfine ½ cup whole wheat flour 1 cup panko bread crumbs Canola oil Dried Red Chili…

  • Red Chili Parsley Chimichurri

    Makes 1 ½ cups Ingredients 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped ½ cup fresh oregano leaves, chopped 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 medium red shallot, chopped fine Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1 fresh red chili, chopped fine, seeds and all ½ cup avocado oil or olive oil ¼ cup red wine vinegar…

  • Roasted Carrot & Parsnip, Beef & Sundried Tomato Tacos with Red Chili Parsley Chimichurri

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 1 pound skirt steak 2 medium carrots, cut into thin 2 inch strips 2 medium parsnips, cut into thin two inch strips ½ medium white onion, halved and sliced ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped fine (good quality ones) 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon black pepper, cracked 1 teaspoon…

  • Roasted Cauliflower & Spinach Whole Wheat Tacos with Tomatillo Sauce

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon cumin 2 teaspoons cumin seeds 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 teaspoon lime zest 2 cups cauliflower florets (bite size) 1 medium red onion, halved and sliced 2 cups baby spinach Whole wheat tortillas Sharp cheddar cheese (I use a local raw jalapeno) Lime…

  • Dried Cherry Mole Sauce

    Makes 2 cups 2-3 dried ancho chilies 2 dried guajillo chilies 2-3 cloves garlic 1 medium yellow onion ½ cup raw almonds 3 whole cloves 1 tablespoon black peppercorns 1 teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 4 tablespoons sesame seeds ¼ cup raw pumpkin seeds 1 teaspoon salt ½ cup dried cherries 2 tablespoons…

  • Pumpkin Taquitos with Dried Cherry Mole Sauce

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients 2 cups fresh pumpkin, cubed about 1 ½ inches 1 small red shallot, chopped 1 dried chipotle chili (preferably mecca variety), crumbled 1 teaspoon cinnamon, freshly grated 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly grated Avocado oil 16 soft corn tortillas, small Maldon salt Fresh local…

  • Jamaican Jerk Pulled Chicken and Sweet Turnip Tacos & Cotija Cheese

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients ½ a medium yellow onion, chopped fine 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine ½ tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and chopped ½ habañero pepper, deseeded and chopped ½ tablespoon lime zest ½ tablespoon orange zest ½ teaspoon allspice, ground ½ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated ½ teaspoon cinnamon, freshly grated ½ tablespoon black pepper, ground…

  • Apple & Sage Pork Burgers with Caramelized Maple Onions

    Serves  4 Ingredients 1 pound ground pork 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper, cracked 2 cloves chopped garlic  1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped fine  1 medium shallot chopped fine  ¼ cup apple, chopped fine  2 medium yellow onions Olive oil 1 tablespoon maple syrup Apple Sliced (thin) Buns Directions…

  • Caramelized Citrus & Sage Upside Down Cornmeal Cake

    Serves 8-10 Ingredients 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick), separated 1 cup sugar 1 lime, sliced thin and slices halved 1 lemon, sliced thin and slices halved 1 mandarin orange, sliced thin and slices halved 12-15 fresh sage leaves ¾ cups cornmeal ¾ cups flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda 3 tablespoons…

  • Concord Grape Jack O’Lantern Punch

    Makes 1 big pumpkin’s worth of punch Ingredients 2 cups turbinado or raw sugar 2 cups water 2 cups fresh concord grapes, smashed 3 cardamom pods, crushed 2 cinnamon sticks, cracked 2 teaspoons nutmeg, freshly grated 1 inch piece of ginger, sliced thin Large Jack O Lantern, seeds removed and cleaned but not carved (…

  • DARK CHOCOLATE PUMPKIN TRUFFLES WITH SPICED PUMPKIN SEEDS

    Makes about 30 truffles Ingredients ½ cup heavy cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoon ground spiced pumpkin seeds ¼ cup pumpkin puree½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nut meg ½ teaspoon ground white pepper 8 ounces semisweet or bittersweet  dark chocolate, chopped cocoa powder mixed with a little pumpkin…

  • PUMPKIN CANNELLONI WITH CARAMELIZED PUMPKIN SPICED ONIONS AND CONCORD GRAPE SAUCE

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 6 fresh sage leaves, chopped fine ½ cup hazelnuts, toasted 1 teaspoon fresh nutmeg 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 cups pumpkin, prebaked, peeled and  pureed ½ cup parmesan cheese 12  premade  fresh pasta sheets Melted butter Pumpkin…

  • PUMPKIN ICE CREAM WITH MAPLE & SAGE GLAZED PECAN NIBBLES

    Makes 4 cups Ingredients 2 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup sugar in the raw 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated 1 teaspoon cinnamon, freshly grated 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon salt4 egg yolks, whisked 1 cup pumpkin puree Maple & Sage Glazed Pecan Nibbles (recipe follows)…

  • Cornmeal Crust Ricotta Fig Tartlets

    Makes 6 Tartlets Ingredients 1 batch cornmeal crust, refrigerated 1 pound fresh ricotta cheese 2 eggs¼ cup raw sugar 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped Pinch of cinnamon 1 teaspoon orange zest 1 pint of fresh figs, cut in half ½  teaspoon lavender flowers (optional) Directions Make sure the batch of cornmeal…

  • Mango Negroni

    2 ounces mango infused gin* 1 ounce campari 1/2  ounce sweet vermouth Mango slice garnish In a rocks glass stir together the gin, campari and sweet vermouth.  Fill with ice and garnish with a slice of mango. *Mango infused Gin-Place one ripe mango (chopped)  in a mason jar and fill with gin and allow to…

  • Cherry Mole Manhattan

    2 ounces Sweet Mole Negra Infused Bourbon* .5 ounces dry vermouth .25 ounces Sweet Mole Negra Cherry syrup Sweet Mole Negra Cherries* Cherry Bitters Place the bourbon, the vermouth and cherry syrup in a glass and stir well.  Fill the glass with ice and garnish with a few of the cherries and a few dashes…

  • Raspberry Mint Daquiri

    2 ounces white rum 1 ounce lime juice 1 ounce fresh Raspberry Mint Syrup* Shake all ingredients together in a shaker. Strain into a chilled rocks glass. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf and fresh raspberry. * Fresh Raspberry Mint Syrup – Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of…

  • Watermelon Singe

    Watermelon Singe

    1.5  ounces Jalapeño Infused Tequila* .75  ounce Sweet Cilantro Syrup* 1 ounce  ounces watermelon agua fresca* .5 ounces fresh lime juice Watermelon Slices (thin and round) Sugared Jalapenos* Place all the ingredients except the watermelon slices and sugared jalapenos in a shaker filled with ice and shake.  Strain into a coupe or martini style glass.…

  • Nectarine and Basil Thirst Quencher

    Nectarines are one of my favorite summer fruits and I am always looking for ways to incorporate this perfect summer flavor into more of what I eat and drink.  Nectarines and basil are a lovely pairing the spicy anise flavor melds perfectly with the perfume sweet nectarine flavor.  This iced tea is the perfect remedy…

  • Black Cherry and Thyme Sun Soother

    There is nothing quite as spectacular as the small window of local cherries and this sun soothing iced tea not only delivers the subtle cherry  and thyme flavors but a gentle pick me up of black tea. Ingredients ¼ cup fresh thyme leaves ½ cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped 1 cup turbinado sugar or…

  • Indonesian Heat Healer

    The herbal flavors of Indonesia for me are the most thirst quenching of all the herbal combinations.  There is something amazingly soothing about combining mint, cilantro, thai basil and lemon grass together in a drink! Ingredients 1 cup pineapple core simple syrup* 2 mango black tea, tea bags 2 tablespoons  fresh thai basil leaves 2…

  • GREENMARKET GATORADE / HERBAL LEMONADE

    Makes 1 pitcher Ingredients 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup sugar (any kind-raw or turbinado or white) 1 tablespoon lemon zest ½ cup lemon juice ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves ¼ cup fresh basil leaves ¼ cup fresh mint leaves ¼ cup fresh lemon thyme leaves ¼ cup fresh sorrel leaves 4-6 cups seltzer water or…

  • Ginger and Lemon Thyme Pesto Scones

    Makes 6 scones Ingredients 2 teaspoons sugar 2 â…“ cups of flour â…“ teaspoon of baking soda ½ tablespoon of baking powder ¼ cup sugar ¾ teaspoon salt ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1-inch cubes ¾ cups buttermilk 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2…