Author: Nissa

  • Green Chili Samosa Bites with Mint Chutney

    Ingredients 1½ lbs red or yellow potatoes, boiled, peeled and cubed Juice of 1 lemon 2-3 green chilies, minced 1 tablespoon cumin powder ½ tablespoon Garam Masala 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper ½ teaspoon sugar 3 tablespoons canola oil Salt to taste ½ cup frozen peas, defrosted 1 package square wonton wrappers 1 egg, beaten Oil…

  • Mint Chutney

    Makes 1½ cups chutney Ingredients 2 cups fresh mint leaves ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves ¼ cup water ½ tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped 3 tablespoons lemon juice, with pulp 2 tablespoons grape seed oil or vegetable oil ½ tablespoon black mustard seeds, crushed 1 teaspoon salt plus additional to taste Directions Mix together all ingredients…

  • Red Cabbage Herbed Pot Stickers with Miso Citrus Dipping Sauce

    Makes about 20 pot stickers Ingredients 2 cloves garlic, chopped superfine 2 teaspoons ginger, chopped superfine ¼ cup red bell pepper, chopped superfine 1 cup shredded red cabbage ¼ cup mung bean sprouts or sprouted mung beans 2 tablespoons fresh Thai basil, chopped superfine 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped superfine 3 tablespoons tamari 3 tablespoons…

  • Miso Citrus Dipping Sauce

    Makes 1 cup Ingredients 2 cloves garlic, chopped superfine 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, chopped superfine 1 tablespoon honey ¼ cup yuzo rice vinegar or plain rice vinegar Juice of 1 lime 1 teaspoon orange zest 3 tablespoons sesame oil ¼ tamari ¼ cup miso paste Directions Whisk together all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl…

  • Cheddar Potato Pierogies with Bacon Fried Onions & Chive Sour Cream

    Makes 20 pierogies Ingredients For the dough (should be made at least an hour in advance) 3 cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons sour cream 1 egg, beaten ¾ cup water For the filling 3 russet potatoes, peeled, boiled and mashed ¾ cup cheddar cheese, shredded 2 teaspoons black pepper 1 teaspoon salt 2…

  • Bourboun Buttermilk Doughnut Bites

    Makes about 20 doughnut bites Ingredients 2½ cups flour ¼ cup almond flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 1 cup sugar 1 cup buttermilk 2 tablespoons *Buffalo Trace Bourboun 2 eggs 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 teaspoon orange zest Directions Combine all the ingredients…

  • Maple & Meyer Lemon Bourboun Sauce

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 2 teaspoons Meyer lemon zest 1 tablespoon corn starch ½ cup Meyer lemon juice 1 tablespoon maple syrup 2 tablespoons *Buffalo Trace White Dog Bourboun 1 cup sugar 3 large eggs, beaten Pinch of salt *Hemispherical Meyer Lemon Bitters Directions Whisk together all ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to…

  • Honey Ricotta Bourboun Fritter with Dried Fig & Pear Bourboun Sauce

    Makes about 25 fritters Ingredients 1 pound fresh ricotta, drained 3 eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla ¼ cup sugar 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 cup flour 2 tablespoons *Buffalo Trace Bourboun Oil for frying Dried Fig & Pear Compote (recipe follows) Directions In a large bowl whisk together the ricotta, eggs, vanilla, sugar, baking powder,…

  • Dried Fig & Pear Sauce

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1 cup dried figs, chopped superfine 1 pear, peeled, cored and chopped superfine ½ cup turbinado sugar 1 cup water ¼ cup *Buffalo Trace Bourboun 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 cinnamon stick 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped superfine *Hemispherical Black Mission Fig Bitters Directions Place all ingredients in a small…

  • Spiced Bourboun Apple Fritters with Bourboun Black Pepper Glaze

    Makes about 20 fritters Ingredients 2 cups flour ½ cup sugar 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 2 teaspoons cinnamon, freshly grated 1 teaspoon all spice ½ teaspoon black pepper 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, chopped fine 2 eggs, beaten ½ cup milk ¼ cup *Buffalo…

  • Bourboun Black Pepper Glaze

    Ingredients 1 cup powdered sugar Pinch of salt ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper 1 teaspoon cinnamin, freshly grated ¼ teaspoon vanilla 3 tablespoons milk 3 tablespoons *Buffalo Trace Bourboun Directions Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Drizzle over doughnuts!

  • Maple & Meyer Lemon Bourbon Sauce

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 2 teaspoons Meyer lemon zest 1 tablespoon corn starch ½   cup Meyer lemon juice 1 tablespoon maple syrup 2 tablespoons Buffalo Trace White Dog Bourbon 1 cup sugar 3 large eggs, beaten Pinch of salt Hemispherical Meyer Lemon Bitters  Directions Whisk together all ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to…

  • Bourbon Buttermilk Doughnut Bites

    Makes about 20 doughnut bites  Ingredients 2 ½ cups flour ¼ cup almond flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 1 cup sugar 1 cup buttermilk 2 tablespoons Buffalo Trace Bourbon 2 eggs 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 teaspoon orange zest  Directions Combine all the…

  • Honey Ricotta Bourbon Fritter with Dried Fig & Pear Bourbon Sauce

    Makes about 25 fritters  Ingredients 1 pound fresh ricotta, drained 3 eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla ¼ cup sugar 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 cup flour 2 tablespoons Buffalo Trace Bourbon Oil for frying Dried Fig & Pear Compote (recipe follows) Directions In a large bowl whisk together the ricotta, eggs, vanilla, sugar, baking powder,…

  • Spiced Bourbon Apple Fritters with Bourbon Black Pepper Glaze

    Makes about 20 fritters Ingredients  2 cups flour ½ cup sugar 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 2  teaspoons cinnamon, freshly grated 1 teaspoon all spice ½ teaspoon black pepper 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, chopped fine 2 eggs, beaten ½ cup milk ¼ cup *Buffalo…

  • The Adler Beet

    Makes 1 cocktail As I embarked on my creation process for a cocktail concoction for Tamar Adler’s last class in her  wonderful series  based on her best selling book at Ger-Nis, An Everlasting Meal, I knew it had to be vibrant, down to earth, secretively refined and smart, just like she is.  I knew it…

  • Nissa’s Gumbo Z’Herbes

    When Jimmy’s No. 43 came-a-calling with their Gumbo contest in celebration of Mardi Gras and benefitting Chefs for the Marcellus, an organization of food professionals who are fighting against hydrofracking for natural gas in NY in order to protect food and water supplies, I knew I needed something special.  Certainly it is “my thing” to…

  • Buffalo Bean Burritos

    Makes 6 burritos Buffalo meat and eating dates back to the times when the only inhibitants of the USA were the Native Americans. Buffalo are to this day still raised traditionally, thriving on the western grasslands. Buffalo has a very similar taste to beef but buffalo is sweeter and lighter in flavor and less fat…

  • Buffalo Burgers

    Makes 4 burgers Buffalo meat and eating dates back to the times when the only inhibitants of the USA were the Native Americans. Buffalo are to this day still raised traditionally, thriving on the western grasslands. Buffalo has a very similar taste to beef but buffalo is sweeter and lighter in flavor and less fat…

  • Moose, Venison or Elk Country Fried Steak

    Serves 4 Ingredients 4-9 ounce steaks, cubed or pounded with a meat mallet 1 cup flour 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped superfine 2 eggs beaten ½ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly ground ½ cup canola oil 2 cups buttermilk Directions Pound…

  • Herby Moose Meatballs

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients For the Meatballs 2 pounds ground moose 8-9 cloves 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 tablespoons reserved for sauce) ½ cup…

  • Blackberry Moose Tamales

    Makes 20 tamales Ingredients For the Blackberry Moose 4 small red dried chilies 2 ancho dried peppers 4 pasilla dried peppers 2 cups water 1 medium tomato, chopped medium 1 medium yellow onion, chopped medium 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon cumin seeds, toasted 1 teaspoon all spice 1 teaspoon…

  • Elk & Cranberry Stew

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 medium onion, chopped small ½ cup celery, chopped fine 2 pounds elk stew meat, chopped in 1 inch cubes 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 3 cups…

  • Beer Braised Onions and Elk Shanks

    Serves 6 Ingredients ½ cup flour 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon cayenne 6 pounds elk shank cut into 2-3 inch long pieces 5 tablespoon canola oil or grape seed oil 3 tablespoons butter 3 cloves garlic, chopped 2 medium yellow onion, sliced in half and sliced 3 celery stalks, chopped…

  • Lamb Kefta with Herbed Yogurt and Pomegranates

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 pound ground lamb 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine ¼ cup red onion, chopped super fine ½ cup fresh mint, chopped fine ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped fine 1 teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon allspice 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon salt ½ cup Kashi Whole Grain Nuggets or Grape…

  • Turkey Pesto Meatballs

    Serves 6 Ingredients For the Meatballs 1 pound ground turkey 2 cups fresh basil, chopped fine ½ cup pine nuts, chopped 8-9 cloves garlic, chopped fine (2 tablespoons reserved for sauce) 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cracked pepper 1 teaspoon red chili flakes 1 egg For the Sauce Olive oil 2 tablespoons chopped garlic (reserved…

  • Mexican Herbed Chicken Albondigas Soup

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 lb ground chicken Juice and zest of 2 limes ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped fine 1 teaspoon jalapeño pepper, chopped fine ¼ cup red pepper, chopped fine 1 tablespoon dried cumin 1 teaspoon salt 1 egg, beaten Soup Ingredients Olive oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 medium red onion, chopped…

  • Sicilian Style Herbed Meatballs

    Serves 6-8 Ingredients For the Meatballs 1 pound ground beef 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, ground 8-9 cloves 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…

  • Baked Black Sesame Salmon Ball Appetizers

    Makes 18-24 balls Ingredients 1½ pound boneless skinless salmon, cubed and frozen ½ inch ginger, peeled and chopped 5 green onions, sliced thin 1 teaspoon wasabi powder 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar, ginger or yuzu flavored or plain 2 tablespoons tamari 1 tablespoons sesame oil 1 egg white 4 tablespoons black sesame seeds Directions Pre-heat…

  • Pad See Yew

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 tablespoons fish sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 teaspoon brown sugar ¼ cup tamari 1 teaspoon red chili paste 1 tablespoon miso paste ¼ cup chicken stock ½ pound baby bok choy, sliced thin, blanched 1 pound wide rice noodles Canola oil 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 2 Thai chilies, sliced…

  • Sweet Chili Sauce

    Makes 1 cup Ingredients ½ rice wine vinegar ¼ cup roasted red pepper puree 2 teaspoons garlic, chopped superfine 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped superfine 1 teaspoon red chili paste 1 tablespoon lime juice 4 tablespoons hot water 2 tablespoons light brown sugar Salt Directions In a mixing bowl whisk together all ingredients until smooth.…

  • Baked Spring Rolls

    Makes 12 spring rolls Ingredients 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 tablespoon coconut oil 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 teaspoon ginger, chopped 1 cup Napa cabbage, sliced thin ¼ cup carrots, shredded 4 shitake mushrooms, chopped ¼ cup green onions, shredded ½ cup bean sprouts 3 tablespoons tamari Spring Roll Wrappers 10 x 10 Sweet Chili…

  • Hot & Sour Thai Shrimp Soup (Tom Yum Koong)

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil ¼ cup lemon grass bulb, chopped & smashed 3 kfir lime leaves, crinkled (optional) 1 tablespoon galangal root, peeled and chopped fine (optional) 1 tablespoon ginger, peeled and chopped fine 1 tablespoon coriander root, chopped fine (optional) 1 tablespoon red…

  • Fresh Lemon Grass Ginger Tea

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 tablespoon fresh lemon grass bulb, sliced thin 1 inch ginger, peeled and sliced super thin 2 tablespoons lemon grass (grass) 1 green tea bag 3 tablespoons turbinado sugar Directions In a large French press, place all ingredients and cover with hot (just before boiling) water. Allow to steep for about 8…

  • Pumpkin Buttercream

    Makes about 2 cups (enough for about 4 dozen macarons) Ingredients 2 large egg whites 2⁄3 Pinch salt 6½ ounces (13 tablespoons) unsalted butter, slightly cooler than room temperature, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup canned pumpkin puree (at room temperature) ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg Large pinch…

  • Pumpkin Macarons

    *You will need some almond flour. If you can’t buy it, you can make your own, just make sure the almonds are really dry. Seperate the eggs at least 1 hour before using or preferably the day before. And if you want to ensure all the macarons are the same size makes a huge difference…

  • Gianduja Buttercream

    Makes about 1 cup buttercream Ingredients 125 grams (4½ ounces or 1 stick + 1 tablespoon) unsalted butter, softened 70 grams (2½ ounces or 5 tablespoons) granulted sugar 3 egg yolks at room temperature 2 ounces gianduja Directions Melt the gianduja along with 2 tablespoons water in a double boiler. Set aside to cook to…

  • Gianduja Macarons

    Makes about 2 dozen Ingredients 215 grams (7½ ounces) confectioners’ sugar 100 grams (3½ ounces) egg whites (about 3 large) at room temperature 130 grams (4½ ounces) peeled, lightly toasted hazelnuts 2 tablespoons Dutch process cocoa 25 grams (2 tablespoons) castor or superfine granulated sugar Pinch salt Gianduja Buttercream (recipe follows) Directions Line cookie sheets…

  • Lime Buttercream

    Makes about 1 cup Ingredients 125 grams (4½ ounces or 1 stick + 1 tablespoon) unsalted butter, softened 70 grams (2½ ounces or 5 tablespoons) granulated sugar 2 tablespoons water 3 egg yolk at room temperature 2 teaspoons key lime juice 1 teaspoon key lime rind Green food coloring (preferably paste) Directions Beat the butter…

  • Key Lime Macarons

    Makes about 2 dozen Ingredients 215 grams (7½ ounces) confectioners’ sugar 100 grams (3½ ounces) egg whites (about 3 large) at room temperature 140 grams (5 ounces) almond flour or sliced almonds 25 grams (2 tablespoons) castor or superfine granulated sugar Pinch salt Green food coloring (preferably paste) 2 teaspoons very finely grated key lime…

  • Cinnamon Black Pepper Glaze

    Ingredients 1 cup powdered sugarPinch of salt½ teaspoon cracked black pepper1 teaspoon cinnamon, freshly grated¼ teaspoon vanilla¼ cup milk Directions Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy.  Drizzle over doughnuts!

  • Ginger & Spice Apple Fitters with Cinnamon Black Pepper Glaze

    Makes about 20 small fritters Ingredients 2 cups flour ½ cup sugar 3 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 2  teaspoons cinnamon, freshly grated 1 teaspoon all spice ½ teaspoon black pepper 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, chopped fine 2 eggs, beaten ¾ cup milk 2 teaspoons…

  • Lemon Curd

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon corn starch ½ cup lemon juice 1 cup sugar 3 large eggs, beaten Pinch of salt Directions Whisk together all ingredients in a medium sauce pan and bring to a medium low heat, whisking slowly until mixture is thick. Allow to cool and refrigerate.

  • Citrus Herb Buttermilk Doughnut Holes with Citrus Brown Sugar Coating

    Makes 30 – 40 doughnut holes Ingredients 3 ¾  cups flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 1 cup sugar 1 cup buttermilk 2 tablespoon lemon juice 3 eggs 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped fine 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped fine…

  • Ginger & Orange Chocolate Glazed Doughnuts

    Makes 2 dozen doughnuts *Recipe adapted from Donna Hay Ingredients 1 package active dry yeast ¼ cup warm water 1 cup warm milk 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon orange zest 3 tablespoons butter, melted 4 ¼ cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 3 eggs, beaten Vegetable oil for frying For the glaze 2 cups powdered sugar…

  • Beef and Sweet Potato Stir Fry

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 medium red onion, sliced thin 3 garlic cloves, sliced thin 1½ pound sweet potatoes (about 3 large) 8 ounces snow peas, trimmed 1½ pound boneless beef sirloin or flank steak 6 scallions 1 cup chicken broth ½ cup hoisin sauce 1 tablespoon cornstarch 6 tablespoons peanut oil 3 teaspoons Asian sesame…

  • Shrimp & Quinoa with Vegetables

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 cup cooked quinoa 2 small carrots, thinly sliced 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded and chopped 3 teaspoons grated ginger 2 clove garlic, sliced 1 small red chile, minced (optional) 8 ounces snow peas, trimmed ¼ teaspoon black pepper 1 egg, beaten 6 ounces small shrimp, peeled and cleaned 3…

  • Thai Style Spicy Vegetables

    Serves 6 Ingredients 3 tablespoons soy sauce 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 1 to 3 Thai red chile peppers (more=spicy), minced 1 medium shallot, chopped 3 teaspoon minced fresh gingerroot 3 tablespoons canola oil 1½ pound fresh green beans, trimmed Fresh cilantro, chopped Dry roasted peanuts, chopped (optional) Directions In a…

  • Broccoli with Ginger and Sesame

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1½ tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted ¾ cup vegetable stock 1½ tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil 1½ pound broccoli florets 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1½ tablespoons minced fresh ginger Canola, or grapeseed oil for sautéing Directions Mix the vegetable stock, soy sauce, and dark sesame…

  • Vanilla Bread Pudding with Golden Raisins

    Serves 8 Ingredients 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 loaf Challah bread, hardened, cut into 1-inch cubes 3 granny smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into ½-inch pieces 1 cup (6 ounces) golden raisins, plumped in hot water, for 15 minutes 3 large eggs ¾ cup sugar ¼ teaspoon cinnamon 1⁄8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1⁄8…

  • Herb & Kale Home Fries

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, cubed into ½ inch cubes (peels on) 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 cups purple kale, chopped 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Olive oil Salt/pepper 2 tablespoons butter Directions Pre-heat oven to 375°F. Place all the ingredients in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, enough to…

  • Winter Greens & Ham Tortilla Española

    Serves 10 Ingredients ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1¼ pounds red bliss potatoes, peeled and sliced 1⁄8 inch thick 6 ounces Serrano ham sliced and cut into 2 inch strips 1 yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced 1 cup winter greens of choice, chopped Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 1 teaspoon…

  • Leek & Fine Herbs Frittata

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 tablespoon fresh chives, tarragon, parsley and chervil, chopped fine 5 large eggs Salt/pepper Chili flakes, optional Olive oil 1 medium leek, sliced in half and chopped fine Directions Mix eggs together well in a bowl, add herbs, salt, pepper and chili flakes, if using. In a non stick skillet heat 1…

  • Pear & Cranberry Bellini

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 pears, peeled, seeded and chopped ½ cup fresh cranberries 2 tablespoons brown sugar Prosecco Directions In a small saucepan over medium heat, add pears and cranberries and cook until soft; 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool, then add to blender. Blend until smooth and strain through…

  • Coriander-Chocolate Halva Liquor

    Makes 1 liter The toffe, praline, vanilla and dried fruit tones in the initial rush of tasting bourbon elixir and charred oak barrels give the Bourbon and spicy firmness that blends in well with this Middle Eastern inspired elixir! Ingredients 1 tablespoon, coriander seeds, cracked fine 1 teaspoon black pepper, cracked fine 1½ cups bourbon,…

  • Orange Cinnamon Fennel Soda

    In a glass filled with ice mix 1 ounce of fennel seed syrup with 2 ounces fresh orange juice and fill with seltzer and stir! Fennel Seed Syrup Makes 2 cups of syrup Ingredients ¾ cup sugar 1½ cups water ¼ cup orange juice 1 tablespoon orange zest 1 tablespoon fennel seed, crushed Directions Place…

  • Pomegranate Black Pepper Soda

    In a glass filled with ice mix 1 ounce of pomegranate black pepper molasses with 2 ounces fresh pomegranate juice and gill with seltzer and stir! Pomegranate Black Pepper Molasses Makes 2 cups Ingredients 5 cups pomegranate juice 1 cup sugar ¼ cup lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper Directions…

  • Moroccan “Krak” Tea

    Ingredients 3 ounces Kraken rum ½ ounce lemon juice ½ ounce orange juice 2-3 mint leaves 1 ounce orange peel black pepper syrup (recipe follows) 2 ounces homemade ginger ale Sparkling wine “Moroccan” Spiced Candied Kumquats (recipe follows) Directions Mix together the kraken, lemon juice, orange juice, mint leaves, ginger ale and syrup and pour…

  • 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.…

  • The Cinnamon Fig

    Ingredients 3 ounces bourbon ½ ounce lemon juice 1 ounce cinnamon stick black pepper syrup (recipe follows) 1 ounce sweet cinnamon vinegar (recipe follows) 1 tablespoon fig compote (recipe follows) Directions Place all the ingredients in a shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into an old fashioned martini glass and garnish with a…

  • Harissa & Preserved Lemon Mint Martini

    Ingredients 3 ounces gin ½ ounce mint infused dry vermouth (recipe follows) ½ ounce preserved lemon liquid (recipe follows) 2-3 drops harissa (recipe follows) Preserved lemon garnish Mint leaf garnish Directions In a glass filled with ice place the gin and the vermouth and stir. Add the lemon preserved liquid and strain into a martini…

  • Spicy Figs & Honey Sparkling Wine

    Ingredients 1 ounce Spicy Bourbon Fig Honey (recipe follows) Sparkling wine Black Peppercorn Garnish Directions In a champagne glass place 1 ounce of the syrup and fill with sparkling wine. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg dust and a dried fig. Spicy Bourbon Figs Honey Makes 2 cups Ingredients ½ cup bourbon ½ cup dried figs,…

  • Orange Cinnamon Fennel Cava

    Ingredients 1 ounce orange juice 1 ounce fennel seed syrup (recipe follows) Cava Cinnamon dusting Directions Place one ounce of the orange juice and one ounce of the fennel seed syrup in a champagne glass and fill with cava. Garnish with a dusting of freshly grated cinnamon. Fennel Seed Syrup Makes 2 cups of syrup…

  • Pomegranate Black Pepper Sparkler

    Ingredients Pomegranate Black Pepper Molasses (recipe follows) Sparkling wine Pomegranate seeds for garnish Directions Pour one ounce of pomegranate black pepper molasses in a champagne glass and fill with champagne. Garnish with a few pomegranate seeds. Pomegranate Black Pepper Molasses Makes 2 cups Ingredients 5 cups pomegranate juice 1 cup sugar ¼ cup lemon juice…

  • Moroccan Spiced Dried Fruit & Nut Sundaes

    Serves 4-6 Ingredients ½ cup dried apricots, chopped ½ cup dried figs, chopped ½ cup dried dates, chopped ½ cup almonds 1 teaspoon cinnamon, freshly grated 1 tablespoon orange zest 1 tablespoon traditional ros el hanout recipe 1 cup turbinado sugar ¼ cup water 3 tablespoons orange juice ½ stick butter ¼ tablespoon heavy cream…

  • 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…

  • Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas & Apricots with Couscous

    Serves 6 Ingredients Olive oil 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped 2 yellow onions, chopped 1 cinnamon stick broken into a few pieces Salt 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes 1 tablespoon ross al hanout traditional or modern recipe 2 cups chickpeas, cooked 1 cup tomatoes, chopped…

  • Ros El Hanout Roasted Cauliflower

    Ingredients 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets 2-3 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1-2 tablespoons ros al hanout, modern or traditional recipe Directions Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large mixing bowl mix together the cauliflower and oil. Sprinlke the salt and ros el hanout over it and mix well. Place in a glass…

  • Ros El Hanout Frilled Meats & Fish

    Ingredients Traditional or Modern Ros El Hanout Salt Lemon Juice Lamb, Beef, Chicken or Fish Directions Mix some salt and ros el hanout together about 8 to 1 ratio (o ros al hanout and salt 1) drizzle your meat with lemon juice and rub it with the ros al hanout. Grill to perfection!

  • Ras El Hanout Poppyseed Butter Cookies

    These are more an adult cookie – sweet, sultry and exotic! Ingredients 1 butter cookie recipe with orange zest in it ½ tablespoon traditional Ros El Hanout ½ tablespoon brown sugar ½ tablespoon poppyseeds Rose Petals (optional) Directions Prepare the butter cookie dough according to the directions, adding 1 tablespoon orange zest into the mixture.…

  • Ras El Hanout (Modern)

    Makes approx 6 ounces Ingredients 1 teaspoon black peppercorns ½ tablespoon white peppercorns ½ tablespoon poppy seeds ½ tablespoon coriander seeds ½ tablespoon cumin seeds 2 whole cloves ½ teaspoon saffron 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ground 2 teaspoons cardamom, ground 1 teaspoon allspice ground 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 1 tablespoon turmeric, ground ½ tablespoon mace,…

  • Ras El Hanout (Traditional)

    Makes approx 10 ounces Ingredients 1 nutmeg ball, crushed 1 cinnamon stick, crushed ½ tablespoon black peppercorns 1 tablespoon white peppercorns 1 tablespoon poppy seeds 1 tablespoon rose bud petals, dried 1 teaspoon lavender buds, dried ½ teaspoon anise seeds 1 tablespoon coriander seeds 1 tablespoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon allspice berries 6 green cardamom…

  • Healthy Junk Bark

    Serves about 6-8 This simple low calorie snack is perfect for kids and adults. Creativity is the key in this recipe, mixing and matching flavors to create an amazing chocolate experience! Ingredients 16 ounces semi sweet of bittersweet dark chocolate, chopped or chips Dried fruit of choice: cranberries, cherries, apricots, blueberries, chopped Nuts of choice:…

  • Ginger Zucchini Cupcakes with Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting

    Makes 1 dozen cupcakes Ingredients 1½ cup all purpose flour ½ cup whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon all spice 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 teaspoons orange zest 2 tablespoons orange juice 2 medium zucchinis, grated (peels left on) ¾ cup olive…

  • Eggplant Dip

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1-2 globe eggplants (totalling 2 lbs), peeled and coarsely chopped 2 red onions, coarsely chopped 1 large red bell pepper, coarsely chopped 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1-2 garlic clobes, chopped 1 teaspoon fresh oregano Juice of one lemon – about 2½ tablespoons 2-3 tablespoons roasted tahini (sesame paste) ¼ cup…

  • Bite Size Samosas with Apple Chutney

    Makes 20 Samosas Apple Chutney Ingredients 6 tart apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped 1¼ (inch) pieces fresh ginger root, peeled 1⁄3 cup white wine vinegar 3 tablespoons white sugar 3 tablespoons brown sugar ¼ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon white pepper ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom Pinch of ground nutmeg Pinch of salt Directions In a…

  • Spiced Mini Lamb Burgers with Lemon Aioli

    Serves 4 Lemon Aioli Ingredients 1 raw extra-large egg yolk ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard Juice of 1 lemon 1½ cups lemon zest 1 teaspoon chopped thyme Salt to taste Freshly ground pepper Directions In a food processor fitted with the metal blade, combine the egg yolks, mustard and process until smooth. Add the lemon juice…

  • Indian Style Tart

    Serves 6-8 Tart Dough Ingredients 2½ cups flour 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 2 sticks unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces 2 to 4 tablespoons ice water Directions In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar and salt. Cut in butter with two forks or a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.…

  • Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

    Serves 6 Ingredients 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1⁄8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne) 1 teaspoon garam masala Kosher salt to taste Lime wedges Directions Preheat the oven to 400°F. Rinse and drain the chickpeas and dry by rolling them around in a kitchen towel. Combine the oil,…

  • Roasted Mushroom and Greens Buckwheat Ramen

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped superfine 2 garlic clove, chopped superfine 1 cups shitake mushrooms, sliced 3 tablespoons miso paste 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (yuzo or plain) 1 teaspoon lime zest 2 tablespoons tamari 1 teaspoon brown sugar 2 teaspoons sesame oil 1 teaspoon chili paste or sauce 3 cups vegetable stock…

  • Miso Ramen with Tofu & Eggs

    Serves 6 Ingredients 1 package firm tofu 3 tablespoons miso paste 2 tablespoons mirin 1 teaspoon sugar 2 teaspoons sesame oil 1 teaspoon chili paste or sauce 3 cups vegetable stock 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped superfine 1 garlic clove, chopped superfine 5 green onions, sliced thinly 8 ounces ramen noodles 3 hard boiled eggs,…

  • Mini Classic Cheesecake with Strawberry Preserve Sauce

    Makes 1 dozen Cheesecakes *Recipe from AllREcipes.com Ingredients 2 cups graham crackers, crushed 3 tablespoons butter, melted 2-8 ounce packages of cream cheese, softened ¾ cup white sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Strawberry Preserve Sauce (recipe follows) Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. Line one 12 cup mini muffin tins with paper liners. In…

  • Cheddar Smashed Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Roasted Jalapeños

    Serves 4 Ingredients 5 medium Yukon gold potatoes, boiled and chopped ½ cup caramelized onions 1-2 roasted jalapeños, stems removed (whole), chopped 2 teaspoons salt (more to taste) 3 teaspoons Tabasco ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated Herbs for garnish Directions In a well oiled hot cast iron skillet smash the potatoes with a potato masher,…

  • Herby Meatloaf

    Serves 4 Ingredients 2 pounds extra lean ground beef 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped fine 2 green onions, chopped (including green parts) ½ cup fresh parsley leaves 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped fine 2 tablespoons lemon thyme or regular thyme 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons…

  • Mini Chicken Pot Pies

    Makes 8 Mini Pot Pies Ingredients 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped 2 ribs of celery, chopped ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup fresh thyme, chopped ¼ cup fresh rosemary, chopped Salt/pepper 1 cup chicken broth 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 cups of chicken meat, precooked…

  • Dried Cherry & Dried Blueberry Bubbly

    Ingredients 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup water ¼ cup dried cherries, chopped ¼ cup dried blueberries, chopped Sparkling wine Directions In a small saucepan over medium heat, add cranberries, apples, water and sugar. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat. Let simmer gently for about 5 times. Cool, blend and strain. Place 1-2…

  • Apple-Cranberry Bubbly

    Ingredients 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup water ¼ cup frozen cranberries, chopped 1 apple, cored and chopped fine Directions In a small saucepan over medium heat, add cranberries, apples, water and sugar. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat. Let simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Cool, blend and strain. Place 1-2 ounces…

  • Roasted Grape & Red Onion Kale Farro with Gorgonzola

    Serves 4 Ingredients 1 medium red onion, chopped small 2 cups red grapes, halved 1 tablespoon thyme leaves 1 chicken thigh, boneless, skinless, chopped fine (optional) 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly cracked 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons currant vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups purple and Tuscan kale, chopped small 2 cups farro, cooked…

  • Orange Date Chmpagne Cocktail

    Don’t worry I would never leave you without options for drinking your dates! This one is not the prettiest drink but is quite deliciously sweet and special! First make some date & honey puree, chopped dates boiled with some honey and pureed into a puree. Place about 1 ounce of date puree in a high…

  • Moroccan Style Date Dishes

    Probably my favorite way to cook with dates outside of chutney. Use Medjool dates in your Moroccan cooking. Chicken stewed with onions, apricots, dates, chickpeas and Moroccan spices, Roasted Moroccan vegetables with spicy date glaze, Orange and date couscous.

  • Stuffed & Wrapped Dates

    Try dates stuffed with cheese and herbs and also one of the great luxuries are bacon wrapped cheese stuffed dates! Play around with differed stuffing’s and wraps!

  • Caramelized Onions & Date Flat Bread Pizza

    Take some premade flat bread and brush it with olive oil. Place a bunch of caramelized red onions on top and Medjool dates (chopped fine). Sprinkle the top with parmesan cheese and a little fresh rosemary and salt and bake until golden brown and crispy!

  • Medjool Compote (Sweet)

    Makes 2½ cups Ingredients 2 cups Medjool dates, chopped fine 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped fine 1 tablespoon orange zest ¼ cup fresh orange juice ¼ cup hot water 2 tablespoons honey 1 cinnamon stock 2 star anise Directions Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir and place tempeature…

  • Medjool Chutney (Savory)

    Makes 2½ cups Ingredients Olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped fine 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, peeled and chopped fine 1-2 red chilies, chopped fine 2 cups Medjool dates, pitted and chopped fine ¼ cup golden raisins ¼ cup brown sugar ½ teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon…

  • Israeli Chopped Salad

    Serves 4 The secret to success of this recipe is small/tiny uniform pieces. They catch the flavors better and ensure the exceptional fresh taste with the prefect ratio of flavors! Ingredients 4 small Israeli cucumbers or 2 euro cucumbers, peeled and chopped fine (tiny cubes) 2 medium sized roma tomatoes, chopped fine (tiny cubes) ½…

  • Israeli Hummus

    Makes 3 cups Ingredients 2 cups of chick peas, soaked overnight and cooked (reserve ½ cup cooking liquid) 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1⁄3 cup tahini 1 teaspoon salt ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil 1⁄3 cup lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon zest ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped fine 1…

  • Parsnip & Apple Thyme Mash

    Serves 4-6 Ingredients 6 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped large 2 medium tart apples, peeled, cored and chopped large ¼ cup fresh thyme leaves 2 tablespoons butter ¼ cup whole milk 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper ½ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated Directions Place the parsnips and apples in a pot of water…

  • Herbed Parsnip Oven Fries

    Serves 4-6 Ingredients 5 medium parsnips, peeled and sliced into thin strips (French fries) 2-3 tablespoons olive oil 1-2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped fine Maldon or flake salt Directions Pre heat oven to 425°F. Place the parsnips in a large mixing bowl…

  • Roasted Cauliflower Farro Salad with Feta, Kale and Parsley Lemon Vinaigrette

    Roasted Cauliflower Farro Salad with Feta, Kale and Parsley Lemon Vinaigrette

    Serves 6 Ingredients   2  cups cauliflower, cut into small florets  1 red pepper, chopped Olive oilSalt/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…

  • Mozzarella Pizzas with Selection of Toppings

    Ingredients Pizza Dough Pizza Sauce Toppings Fresh Mozzarella, sliced thin Directions Pre-heat oven to 400°F. Roll out the pizza dough into 3 round pies. Place the dough on baking sheet lines with parchment paper. Spoon a bit of sauce on each pie and add the desired toppings. Place a few slices of the mozzarella over…