Recipes – Ger-nis

Author: Nissa

  • Platanos Fritos (Fried Plantains)

    Serves 6 Ingredients 4 medium to large plantains, sliced in 1⁄3 inch slices 1 cup canola oil Salt Directions Heat half the oil in a sauté pan on medium high heat. Fry the plantains until golden brown and then turn and cook on the other side until golden brown as well. Drain on paper towels…

  • Ensalada de Repollo (Cabbage Salad)

    Serves 6-8 Often seen in small Nicaraguan restaurants soaking in big batches at room temperature, it is similar to a sauerkraut with a Latin Style and a citrusy tone. Ingredients 3 cups shredded green cabbage (about ½ medium head) 1 cup chopped fresh tomato Juice of 3 limes 1 tablespoon salt Directions In a medium…

  • Horracha de Arroz con Mango (Mango Rice Milk)

    Makes 12 drinks Ingredients 2 cups rice 6 cups water 1 cup mango puree ¾ cup sugar 2 teaspoons freshly grated cinnamon 1 fresh vanilla bean Directions Soak the rice overnight in the six cups of water. In batches in a blender blend the rice and water mixture until smooth about 2-3 minutes. With a…

  • Spicy Tomato Salad

    Serves 4-6 Ingredients 1 medium red onion, chopped 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped 1 cup baby lettuce ¼ cup avocado oil 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 teaspoon jalapeño, chopped superfine 2 teaspoons Ger-Nis Tabasco Salt Directions In a mixing bowl, toss together onions, tomatoes, cilantro and baby lettuce. In…

  • Smashed Beans

    Serves 4-6 Ingredients Avocado or canola oil 1 medium white onion, chopped fine 3 cups black, red or pinto beans ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves 1 teaspoon cumin Salt Directions In a medium sauté pan heat the oil to a medium high heat. Sauté the onions until slightly translucent or about 3 minutes. Add the…

  • Huevos Ranchero’s de Nissa

    Serves 4-6 Ingredients Avocado or canola oil 1 medium red onion, chopped ½ jalapeño, deseeded and chopped ½ red pepper, chopped small ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved 6 eggs Salt Ger-Nis Tabasco ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped fine Avocado (optional) ¼ cup cotija cheese Corn tortillas, warmed Directions In a medium sauté pan, heat…

  • “Sweet” Gluten Free Pie Dough

    Makes one pie shell or 4 tartlets Ingredients 1 ½ cup rice flour 3 tablespoons light brown sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 stick of butter, cold and cubed Ice water Directions In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar and vanilla and salt. Cut in butter with two forks or a pastry…

  • Fresh Lime Orange Juice

    Makes 1 juice glass cup Fresh and zesty, this simple small juice glass is a perfectly way to start your morning! Ingredients 2 Valencia juice oranges 1 lime Directions Juice oranges and lime and combine in glass and mix!

  • Spicy Bread Pickle Spears

    Ingredients 4-5 pickling cucumbers (Kirby) 1 tablespoon mustard seeds 1 tablespoon celery seeds 1 teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon black pepper, cracked 1 tablespoon Ger-Nis Smoky Salt 1 cup white vinegar ½ cup water 2 tablespoon Ger-Nis Tabasco Directions Cut the cucumbers into wedges (4-6). In a mixing bowl combine spices, vinegar, water and Tabasco…

  • Pickled Green Beans

    Ingredients ½ pound green beans, trimmed ½ cup water ¾ cup white vinegar 1 tablespoon horseradish 1 medium tomato, crushed 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon lemon zest Directions Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook green beans until tender or about 3-4 minutes. Place in an ice bath until completely chilled.…

  • The Beet Bloody Mary

    Makes 1 pitcher of bloody mary mix Ingredients 5 red beets, washed and scrubbed 3 carrots, washed and scrubbed 1 large bunch parsley 2 cups water 1½ tablespoons fresh horseradish, grated 1 teaspoon celery seeds 1 tablespoon lime zest 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon citrus champagne vinegar Juice of 2 lemons Juice of 2…

  • The Gentle Bloody Mary

    Makes 1 pitcher of bloody mary mix Ingredients 4 cups tomato juice 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped fine 1 teaspoon fresh horseradish, grated 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon celery salt Juice of…

  • The Spicy Bloody Mary

    Makes 1 pitcher of bloody mary mix Ingredients 4 cups tomato juice 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce 1½ tablespoons fresh horseradish grated 2 cloves garlic, pressed through a garlic press (juiced) 2 tablespoons Ger-Nis Tabasco 1 teaspoon celery seeds 1 tablespoon lime zest 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon citrus champagne vinegar Juice of 2 lemons…

  • Smoky Salt

    Makes ½ cup Ingredients 1 tablespoon lime zest ¼ cup alderwood smoked salt ¼ cup maldon sea salt 1 teaspoon lime juice Directions Mix together the zest, salts and lime juice and use to rim bloody mary glasses.

  • Cinnamon Basil Syrup

    Makes 1 cup syrup Ingredients ½ cup to 2 cups sugar ½ cup to 2 cups water ½ cup fresh cinnamon basil leaves Directions Place water, sugar and cinnamon basil leaves in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer for a few more minutes. Take off heat and…

  • Passover Roasted Leg of Lamb

    Serves 10-12 Ingredients ½ cup fresh rosemary leaves, chopped fine 1 tablespoon cloves, whole 1 tablespoon cardamom seeds 2 tablespoons coriander, whole 1 tablespoon cumin powder 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper 6 pound leg of lamb, trimmed of fat 6 garlic cloves, chopped fine 2 medium yellow onions, divided into 12 wedges or cubes 2…

  • Lemon-Mint Herbal Syrup

    Makes 1 cup Ingredients ½ lemon sliced ½ cup fresh mint, chopped ½ cup light brown sugar ½ cup water Directions In a medium saucepan combine all ingredients and bring to a boil, turn down the heat to a simmer and simmer for about 5 minutes. Strain, and store syrup in the refrigerator for up…

  • Lemon-Mint Brown Sugar

    Makes 1 cup Ingredients 1 tablespoon lemon zest, finely grated 1 tablespoon mint, chopped superfine ¾ cup light brown sugar, fine Directions Mix the ingredients together and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week!

  • Ger-Nis’ Herbal Mint Julep

    Makes 1 drink Ingredients Lemon mint brown sugar (recipe follows) 4-5 fresh mint leaves Crushed or shaved ice ½ ounce lemon mint herbal syrup (recipe follows) 2 ½ ounces bourbon (Makers Mark is our preferred choice) Crushed or shaved ice Directions Wet the rim of a old fashioned or low wide mouth glass with a…

  • Israeli Herbal Tea

    Makes 1 French press (about 6 cups) Ingredients 1 black tea bag ¼ cup fresh sage leaves ¼ cup fresh lemon thyme leaves ¼ cup fresh mint leaves ½ lemon sliced 3 tablespoons honey Hot, just boiling water Directions In the French press or another tea pot, place the tea bag, fresh mint, sage and…

  • Orange, Ginger, Mint Honey Tea

    Makes 1 French press (about 6 cups) Ingredients ¼ cup fresh mint leaves 1 tablespoon dried orange peel (optional) 2 slices fresh orange slices 1 slice fresh or dried ginger 3 tablespoons honey Hot, just boiling water Directions In the French press or another tea pot, place fresh mint leaves, ginger and orange peel and…

  • Blueberry Lemon Thyme Tea

    Makes 1 French press (about 6 cups) Ingredients ¼ cup dried blueberries (substitute 1 spoonful of fresh) ¼ cup fresh lemon thyme leaves 1 tablespoon dried lemon peel (can substitute 1 slice fresh lemon) 2 tablespoons honey Hot, just boiling water Directions In the French press or another tea pot, place dried or fresh blueberries,…

  • Strawberry Thyme Ginger & Lemon Tea

    Makes 1 french press (about 6 cups) Ingredients ¼ cup dried strawberries (substitute 2 fresh strawberries, sliced) ¼ cup fresh thyme leaves 1 slice dried ginger or 1 slice fresh ginger ½ lemon sliced 2 tablespoons honey Hot, just boiling water Directions In the French press or another tea pot, place dried or fresh strawberries,…

  • Banana Ginger Rice or Oat Cereal

    For babies 6-9 months INGREDIENTS 1 cup of organic rolled oats or organic brown rice 1 teaspoon ginger water (½ teaspoon fresh ginger infused with 1 cup water) Banana 1 cup filtered water DIRECTIONS In a blender, blend 1 cup of rolled oats or brown rice until a powder is formed. With a flour softer,…

  • Sweet Pea Puree

    For babies 4-6 months INGREDIENTS 1 cup fresh organic sweet peas Filtered water DIRECTIONS Steam or boil the peas in the filtered water for about 6-8 minutes or until soft. Mash the peas well using a few tablespoons of the filtered pea water. Push the mashed peas through a fine mesh strainer or food mill…

  • Chocolate Cardamom Banana Bites

    Chocolate Cardamom Banana Bites

    Makes 12-15 bites INGREDIENTS 2 bananas, firm but ripe, cut into 12-15 pieces 9 ounces dark semisweet chocolate 1 teaspoon cardamom 1⁄3 cup shredded coconut ½ cup nut of choice, chopped fine 2 teaspoons flax seeds 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds 1⁄3 cup dried dates and cherries, chopped fine DIRECTIONS Freeze the banana pieces. In a…

  • Rock Shrimp Tacos

    Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 pound rock shrimp Juice of 1 lime 12 teaspoons cumin ½ cup fresh cilantro Salt Oil Cherry tomatoes Corn or whole wheat tortillas Avocado Radish Salad Garnish DIRECTIONS In a small mixing bowl, place shrimp, lime juice, salt and cumin, and mix. Let stand for 5-10 minutes. Strain, reserving liquid. In…

  • Spinach & Herb Meatloaf

    Serves 6-8 INGREDIENTS 2 pounds extra lean ground turkey 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped fine 2 sprigs onions, chopped (including green parts) 1 cup fresh parsley leaves 2 tablespoons lemon thyme or regular thyme 1 tablespoon lemon zest 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons black pepper ¼ – ½ cup bread crumbs 2 eggs 1 tablespoon…

  • Raw Asparagus & Arugula Salad

    Raw Asparagus & Arugula Salad

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 1 bunch asparagus, sliced at an angle 1 bunch arugula or rocolla (about 2-3 cups) chopped ½ cup parmesan, grated finely ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon salt Ground black pepper DIRECTIONS In a large mixing bowl, combine the asparagus, arugula and parmesan, and mix well.…

  • Artichokes with Lemon Aioli Dip

    INGREDIENTS 4 globe artichokes 2 lemons 1 recipe lemon aioli (see recipe) or any favorite vinaigrette DIRECTIONS Wash the artichokes to remove and grit between the leaves. Snap off the stems at the base, so the artichokes stand upright. Use kitchen shears to trim the tips of each leaf. Rub the cut leaves with lemon…

  • Fried Artichokes Jewish Style

    Serves 4-6 INGREDIENTS 24 baby artichokes, trimmed 2 quarts vegetable oil for frying Salt and Red Pepper flakes Chopped Parsley Grated parmesan (optional) Lemon wedges DIRECTIONS Pour the oil in to a heavy pot and place over high heat. When the oil reaches 250 degrees, lower the heat. Fry the artichokes in batches for 3-4…

  • Artichoke Risotto with Peas and Pancetta

    Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 quart chicken stock 3 ounces pancetta, cut into ¼ inch dice 1 teaspoon olive oil â…“ cup finely chopped onion 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 1 cup Arborio rice ¼ tablespoons white wine 1 cup peas (thawed if frozen) 1 recipe baby artichokes in lemon vinaigrette, drained and thinly sliced…

  • Baby Artichokes with Lemon Vinaigrette

    Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 12 baby artichokes, trimmed and halved lengthwise ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for serving ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 4 garlic cloves, halved lengthwise 3 sprigs fresh thyme Coarse sea salt or kosher salt ½ teaspoon whole black peppercorns Chopped parsley DIRECTIONS Combine water, the oil, lemon juice, garlic,…

  • Mint Ice Cream with Fresh Orange-Beet Swirls

    Makes 5 cups INGREDIENTS 2 cups 2% milk 2 cups half and half 1 cup sugar 2 cups fresh mint, chopped 10 egg yolks 1 medium red beet, cooked and peeled and cubed ½ cup orange juice ½ cup sugar DIRECTIONS In a heavy bottomed saucepan bring the milk, half and half, sugar and mint…

  • Strawberry-Lemon Thyme Rhubarb Tartlets with Honey Creme Fresh

    Makes 6 tartlets. INGREDIENTS Sweet Pie Dough (1 recipe for one large tart) (add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon thyme) 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered 1 cup rhubarb, sliced ¼ cup fresh lemon thyme leaves 1⁄3 cup sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 cup créme fresh ¼ cup honey DIRECTIONS…

  • Blackberry-Basil Buckwheat Flax Crepes with Basil Sweet Cream

    Serves 8 INGREDIENTS 2 cups blackberries ½ cup turbinado sugar ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped 2 cups 2% milk 1 tablespoon sugar in the raw 1 teaspoon sea salt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted ½ cup buckwheat flour ¾ cup all purpose flour 1 tablespoon golden flaxseeds 3 eggs Basil Sweet Cream (recipe follows) DIRECTIONS…

  • Strawberry Rhubarb Tartlets with Honey Crème Fresh

    Makes 6 tartlets Ingredients Sweet Pie Dough (1 recipe- for one large tart) 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered 1 cup rhubarb, sliced â…“ cup sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 cup crème fresh ¼ cup honey Directions Preheat oven to 375° F. Place the pie dough into 6 little…

  • Spring Greens & Fennel Salad with Grainy Mustard Vinaigrette

    Serves 6 Ingredients 3 cups spring greens 1 fennel bulb, sliced thin 3 tablespoons fresh dill leaves 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard 2 tablespoons honey 1 clove garlic, chopped fine 2 tablespoons lemon juice Salt/pepper Directions In a large…

  • Steamed Asparagus with Citrus Salt & Olive Oil

    Serves 4-6 Ingredients 1 pound (abut 30-40 medium spears) fresh green asparagus, ends trimmed 1 teaspoons lemon zest, plus 2 teaspoons extra Salt ¼ cup olive oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped superfine 1 teaspoon lime zest 1 teaspoon orange zest 1 teaspoon coarse salt 1 tablespoon maldon salt Directions Bring 2 inches of water in…

  • Warm Tomato Herb Salsa

    Makes 1 cup of salsa Ingredients Olive oil ½ medium yellow onion, chopped fine 2 medium tomatoes, chopped 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped fine 1 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped fine 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper, cracked Directions In a medium sauté pan, heat…

  • Baked Egg & Goat Cheese in Brioche Cups with Tomato Herb Salsa

    Serves 6 Ingredients 6 mini brioche rolls ½ cup melted butter 6 eggs Salt/pepper 3 ounces goat cheese 3 tablespoons fresh chives Tomato herb salsa (recipe follows) Directions Preheat oven to 375° F. Cut off the tops of the brioche rolls and scoop out a small portion of the inside, enough for a cracked egg…

  • Herbal Simple Syrup

    Makes 2 cups Ingredients 1 cup sugar (any type of sugar will work) 1 cup water 1 cup fresh herbs leaves & stems Directions Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Turn heat to low and simmer for approximately 5-10 minutes depending on how potent you wish the syrup to…

  • Sweet Herbal Mimosas (Lemon Thyme Orange & Basil Tangerine)

    Makes 1 mimosa Ingredients 1 ounce herbal syrup (lemon thyme or basil), recipe follows 2 ounces fresh juice (orange or tangerine) 4-6 ounces champagne, prosecco or cava Directions In a champagne class combine the herbal syrup and the citrus juice and fill glass with champagne, cava or prosecco. Herbal Simple Syrup Makes 2 cups Ingredients…

  • Wild Ramp-Basil Pesto & Whole Wheat Paperadelle

    Serves 6-8 INGREDIENTS ¼ pound of wild ramps, cleaned and ends trimmed and chopped ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, stems removed 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon lemon juice ¼ cup toasted walnuts ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 pound whole wheat paperadelle cooked DIRECTIONS In a blender place the ramps, basil, lemon zest,…

  • Ramp & Wild Mushroom Crostini

    Makes 15-20 crostinis INGREDIENTS Olive oil 1 tablespoon butter 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine 9-10 ramps, cleaned and trimmed, chopped fine 1 cup fresh morel mushrooms or other wild mushrooms, cleaned and chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped fine 1 tablespoon white wine 1 teaspoon salt…

  • Ramptini

    Makes one cocktail INGREDIENTS 2 ounces gin 1 ounce dry vermouth ½ ounce pickled ramp juice Ice Pickled ramps (recipe follows) DIRECTIONS Shaken: In a shaker combine the gin, vermouth, and ramp juice and ice, shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with pickled ramp. Stirred: In a large glass filled with ice,…

  • Corriander Tomato Gehaktballen

    Makes about 20 meatballs Meatballs are one of the most popular dishes in Holland, with traditional and fusion type recipes due to the ever changing population. This version gives a fresh new take on meatballs with the bright additive of cilantro! INGREDIENTS ½ cup breadcrumbs 1 cup fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped fine ¼ cup fresh…

  • Bitterballen & Herbed Mustard

    Bitterballen are a staple in old Dutch cooking and have been modernized quite a bit over the years and essentially made a bit healthier. Originally served alongside a Dutch bitter Gin, hence the name, these snacks are seen throughout the country in many different forms. These lovely snacks and medium-sized meals are essentially a fried…

  • Fava Bean Salad with Lemon, Mint and Pecorino Shavings

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS For the salad 3 pounds fava beans 1 red onion, cut in half and sliced thin 3 cups arugula 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Juice and zest of 1 lemon Salt Freshly ground pepper For the pecorino lemon zest ¼ cup fresh mint 1 tablespoon lemon zest ¼ cup pecorino, freshly grated…

  • Spring Pea Risotto with Prosciutto and Basil & Mint Butter

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS For the pea risotto 5 cups chicken broth 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 shallot, chopped fine 1½ cups Arborio rice ½ cup dry white wine 5 slices of prosciutto cut in small pieces 1 cup fresh peas, blanched 1 cup parmesan cheese Salt Freshly ground pepper For the basil & mint butter…

  • Fava Bean Puree Costini with Mint and Pea Shoots

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 3 pounds fava beans 2 cloves garlic, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons water Juice of ½ lemon Salt Pea shoots, for garnish (optional) Baguette, for serving DIRECTIONS Prepare a large bowl of ice water and set aside. To prep and cook fava beans,…

  • Snap Pea & Mint Salad

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 1 pound raw snap peas, trimmed and julienned ¼ white onion, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped Juice and zest of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup parmesan cheese (optional) Salt Freshly ground pepper DIRECTIONS In a medium size bowl, combine all ingredients. Season with salt and…

  • Rustic Artichoke Soup

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 leeks (white and light green parts only), chopped small 1 onion, chopped small 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine Hearts of 6 large artichokes cut in quarters 3 medium size white potatoes (Yukon gold), peeled and chopped 8 cups vegetable stock 1 fresh bay leaf 3 sprigs of…

  • Pea & Mint Tortellini in Herbed Brodo

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS For the spring pea and mint tortellini Olive oil 1 medium shallot, chopped fine 1 cup fresh peas, steamed soft and mashed 2 teaspoons lemon zest ¼ cup grated pecorino 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper Fresh pasta sheets For the herbed brodo 1 (¼ pound) piece Parmigiano-Reggiano 6 cups chicken…

  • Italian Wedding Soup with Spring Greens and Italian Herb Gremolata

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS For chicken pesto meatballs 1 pound ground chicken 1 cup fresh basil, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh parsley, 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 soup…

  • Spring Vegetable Minestrone with Herb Pesto

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS For spring vegetable minestrone 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 yellow onion, chopped small 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 6 cups vegetable stock 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped fine 3 carrots, chopped medium 3 celery ribs, chopped medium 5 asparagus stalks, trimmed and cut into ½-inch pieces 1 cup green beans, trimmed and…

  • Detox Shots

    Makes one shot Beet Basil Shot ½ cup fresh beets, 1 cup fresh basil leaves, ¼ cup orange juice Grapefruit Parsley & Lemon-Thyme ¼ cup grapefruit juice, ½ cup fresh parsley leaves, ½ cup fresh lemon-thyme leaves Lemon Ginger Mint ¼ cup lemon juice, ½ inch chunk fresh ginger, ½ cup mint Cucumber Parsley Mint…

  • Zucchini & Chili Mint Salad

    Zucchini & Chili Mint Salad

    Serves 2 Ingredients 2 zucchinis, cut into ribbons (using a mandolin) ½ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspon lemon juice 1 glove garlic, chopped superfine 1 teaspoon fresh red chili, deseeded and chopped superfine 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted Salt Directions In a mixing bowl mix…

  • Whole Wheat Linguini with Parsley Lemon Almond Pesto & Roasted Almonds

    Serves 2 INGREDIENTS ¼ pound whole-wheat linguini, cooked 2 cups fresh parsley leaves 2 cloves garlic ¼ cup almonds, raw 1 tablespoon lemon zest ¼ cup lemon juice ¼ cup olive oil Salt ½ cup almonds, whole and roasted DIRECTIONS Cook the pasta as per pasta directions. In a blender place parsley, garlic, almonds, lemon…

  • Mango Mint Smoothie

    Makes 2-10 ounce smoothies INGREDIENTS 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, seed removed, and chopped ½ cup fresh mint leaves ½ cup water ½ cup ice Juice of one lime 3 tablespoons honey DIRECTIONS Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.

  • Herbal Berry Antioxidant Smoothie

    Makes 2-10 ounce smoothie INGREDIENTS ¼ cup fresh or frozen blueberries ¼ cup fresh or frozen raspberries ¼ cup fresh or frozen strawberries ¼ cup fresh or frozen blackberries ½ cup pomegranate juice ¼ cup lemon juice ¼ cup honey 1 cup fresh mint leaves 1 cup water 1 teaspoon salt DIRECTIONS Place all ingredients…

  • Red Basil Cinnamon Lip Gloss (Brown Tint)

    INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon shea butter 1 tablespoon pumpkin seed oil 1 tablespoon beeswax ½ tablespoon Vitamin E oil 1 cinnamon stick ¼ cup fresh cinnamon basil DIRECTIONS Wrap basil with kitchen twine or in cheese cloth for easy removal. Heat up ingredients in small saucepan, and let simmer for 7 to 10 minutes, infusing ingredients.…

  • Raspberry Mint Lip Gloss (Purple Tint)

    INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon shea butter 1 tablespoon almond oil 1 tablespoon beeswax ½ tablespoon Vitamin E oil 6 raspberries, smashed ¼ cup mint DIRECTIONS Heat up ingredients in small saucepan, and let simmer for 7 to 10 minutes, infusing ingredients. Strain contents into a jar. Let harden.

  • Coconut Mango Mint Lip Smacker

    INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon coconut butter 1 tablespoon coconut oil 2 tablespoons beeswax 1 tablespoon Vitamin E oil 1 tablespoon fresh mango, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped DIRECTIONS Heat up ingredients in small saucepan, and let simmer for 7 to 10 minutes, infusing ingredients. Strain contents into a jar. Let harden.

  • Citrus Basil Lip Balm

    INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons avocado or almond oil 1 tablespoon shea or mango butter 2 tablespoons beeswax 1 tablespoon Vitamin E oil 1 teaspoon citrus zest 4 drops orange or lemon essential oil ¼ cup fresh basil leaves DIRECTIONS Wrap basil with kitchen twine or in cheese cloth for easy removal. Heat up ingredients in small…

  • Mango Mint Sorbet

    INGREDIENTS 2 cups water 2 cups sugar ½ cups chopped mint 2 cups fresh mango, peeled, deseeded and chopped Zest and juice of 1 lime ¼ cup heavy cream DIRECTIONS Make simple syrup in a medium saucepan by combining the sugar and water and chopped mint. Bring to a boil until sugar dissolves, simmer for…

  • Cactus Fruit (Prickly Pear) Cilantro Lime Tequila Coolers

    Makes 1 cocktail INGREDIENTS 1½ ounce tequila blanca 1½ ounce Grand Marnier 1 ounce cactus fruit syrup (recipe follows) 1 ounce agave syrup 1 ounce lime syrup (recipe follows) DIRECTIONS Add all ingredients into a strainer filled with ice, shake vigorously. Strain through fine mesh strainer. Serve over ice garnish with a lime wedge and…

  • Goat Cheese, Watercress and Mixed Spring Pea Risotto with Pea Shoots

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 5 cups vegetable broth 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 shallot, chopped fine 1½ cups Arborio rice ½ cup dry white wine 1 cup fresh peas, blanched 1 cup watercress, chopped ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled Salt Freshly ground pepper Pea shoots, for garnish DIRECTIONS In a medium sized saucepot heat chicken broth…

  • Snow, Snap and Shelling Peas with Fennel, Lemon & Spring Herbs

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 1½ cups snow peas 1½ cups snap peas 1 cup fresh peas 1 fennel bulb, shaved Zest of one lemon Juice of one lemon 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped Maldon salt DIRECTIONS In a steamer pan steam snow peas and snap…

  • Julienne of Snap Pea Salad with Mint, Lemon Pecorino

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 1 pound raw snap peas, trimmed and julienned ¼ white onion, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped Juice and zest of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup pecorino cheese (optional) Salt Freshly ground pepper DIRECTIONS In a medium size bowl, combine all ingredients. Season with salt and…

  • Spring Pea & Mint Ravioli with Sweet Pea Flowers

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 1 shallot, minced 1 cup fresh English peas, steamed soft and mashed ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped ¼ cup ricotta cheese ¼ cup goat cheese ½ teaspoon lemon zest Salt Freshly ground pepper Herbed pasta dough For the sauce 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 shallot ½ cup vegetable broth Juice and zest…

  • Grapefruit Parsley & Lemon Thyme

    INGREDIENTS ½ cup fresh parsley leaves ½ cup fresh lemon-thyme leaves ¼ cup grapefruit juice DIRECTIONS Press the parsley and lemon-thyme through a juicer. Mix herb juice and grapefruit juice in a small glass.

  • Beet Basil Shot

    INGREDIENTS ½ cup fresh beets, peeled and cut into large chunks 1 cup fresh basil leaves ¼ cup orange juice DIRECTIONS Press the beets and basil through a juicer. Mix beet and basil juice with orange juice in a small glass.

  • Tarragon Beet Salad

    Serves 2 INGREDIENTS 1 cup mixed baby lettuces 2 medium beets, cooked, trimmed and sliced 1 red grapefruit, peeled, pitted and segmented 1 navel or cara orange, peeled, pitted and segmented 1 small shallot, chopped fine ¼ cup champagne vinegar ¼ cup fresh tarragon, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped 3 tablespoons almond oil Juice…

  • Baby Bok Choy Mint Millet with Cilantro Ginger Miso

    Serves 2 INGREDIENTS ½ cup millet, cooked ¼ cup adzuki beans, cooked ¼ cup red cabbage, shredded 6-8 shitake mushrooms, sliced 3-4 green onions, sliced 1 carrot, sliced thin or shredded ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh Thai basil, chopped 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped 2 cloves garlic,…

  • Fresh Fruit with Coconut & Herbal Honey

    Serves 2 INGREDIENTS ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced ½ cup fresh blackberries 1 red grapefruit, pitted and segmented 1 orange, pitted and segmented ½ cup toasted coconut, shavings Herbal infused honey (recipe follows) DIRECTIONS Place all the fruit in a mixing bowl, and gently toss together with coconut shavings. Place in two serving bowls. Drizzle…

  • Dandelion Parsley Lime Kiwi Smoothie

    Makes 2-10 ounce smoothies INGREDIENTS 1 cup dandelion greens, chopped 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped Juice of 1 lime 1 teaspoon lime zest 2 kiwis, peeled and chopped 1 cup water 1 cup ice 1 teaspoon salt DIRECTIONS Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.

  • Spring Greens & Herb Smoothie

    Makes 2-10 ounce smoothies INGREDIENTS 1 cup green kale leaves, chopped 1 cup fresh parsley leaves 1 cup fresh mint leaves ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves 1 banana, cubed ½ apple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks ½ pear, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks 1 cup water 1 cup of ice 1 teaspoon salt…

  • Guatamalan Pollo en Peppian Tacos (Chicken Tacos with Pumpkin Seed Sauce)

    Makes 20 tacos INGREDIENTS 2 cups water 1 chicken breast, skinless 2 chicken thighs, skinless 2 chicken legs, skinless ½ large white onion (half reserved), chopped 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup green pumpkin seeds 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 2 whole allspice berries 3…

  • Guatamalan Red Chili Pork Chuchitos (Tamales)

    Makes 20 tamales INGREDIENTS For the red chili pork 2 cups water 1 medium tomato, chopped medium 1 red chile, torn into pieces 1 medium yellow onion, chopped medium 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon cumin seeds, toasted 1 pound pork butt 1 teaspoon salt 1 fresh bay leaf 2…

  • Paches de Guatemala (Guatemala Potato Tamales)

    Makes 8 tamales INGREDIENTS 2 medium tomatoes, chopped 2 green onions, chopped fine 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 red bell pepper, chopped fine 1 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped fine 1 cup water Salt 6 tablespoons lard or margarine 1 pound potatoes, cooked and mashed 2 cups masa harina 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon ground…

  • Tostadas de Guacamole (Avocado Tostadas)

    Makes 8 tostadas INGREDIENTS 8 corn tortillas 2 avocados, ripe Juice of 1 lime (1 teaspoon reserved) 1⁄3 cup fresh cilantro leaves (2 tablespoons reserved) Salt 3 spring onions or 1 small white onion Hot sauce Oil (canola) Dry queso or cotija cheese, crumbled Hot sauce DIRECTIONS Lay the corn tortillas out flat on the…

  • Picado de Rabano (Radish Salad)

    Serves 4-6 as a garnish for tacos and tamales INGREDIENTS 1 bunch (about 12) radishes, sliced thin ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped fine Juice of 2 limes Salt DIRECTIONS In a small mixing bowl combine radishes, cilantro and lime juice, mix well and season with a generous amount of salt (preferably a flake salt…

  • Spicy Italian Sausage

    Makes 9 sausages INGREDIENTS 2 pounds pork butt, cubed into ½-inch cubes ½ pound pork fat, chunk bacon or fatback 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped fine ¼ cup fresh marjoram, chopped fine 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon cracked…

  • Spicy Italian Sausage and Olive Linguini

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS Olive oil 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine 1 tablespoon fennel seeds 1 teaspoon red chili flakes 3-4 links of spicy Italian sausage (taken out of casings) (recipe follows) 1½ cups parsley, chopped fine 1 cup black olives, sliced 1 (12 ounce) can plain tomato sauce 1¼ cup heavy whipping cream 1 pound…

  • Sundried Tomato & Herb Chicken Sausage Pizzas

    Makes 3 10-inch pizzas INGREDIENTS 2 pounds boneless & skinless chicken breasts, cubed ½ pound pork fat, cubed (optional) 2 cloves garlic, chopped ½ medium yellow onion, chopped 3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped fine 2 tablespoons salt Casings, of your choice Canola or olive…

  • Herbed Lamb Kabobs with Garlicy Mint Yogurt

    Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine ½ cup red onion, chopped fine 2 pounds lamb, cubed ½ pound pork fat, cubed 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground corriander 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons…

  • Pecan Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake

    Makes 1 8×12 cake INGREDIENTS For the streusel 1⁄3 cup all purpose flour ½ cup packed light brown sugar 2 teaspoons cinnamon 4 tablespoons (½ stick) butter, cold and cut into pieces 1 cup pecans, chopped For the coffee cake 4 tablespoons (½ stick) butter, softened ½ cup packed light brown sugar ½ cup sugar…

  • Cardamom Dried Cherry Crumb Cake Bars

    Makes 12 bars INGREDIENTS For the crumb topping ½ cup all purpose flour ½ cup walnuts, chopped 1⁄3 cup sugar 1 tablespoon grated orange zest ½ teaspoon instant espresso ½ teaspoon ground cardamom 4 tablespoons (½ stick) butter, cut into pieces For the cake 2 cups all purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon…

  • Blueberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake

    Makes 1 Bundt Cake INGREDIENTS 1 cup butter, softened 2 cups sugar 2 eggs 1 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 12⁄3 cups all purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries ½ cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ cup chopped pecans 1 tablespoon confectioners’…

  • Dulce De Leche Ice Cream with Strawberries & Mexican Chocolate Sauce and Jalapeno Strawberry Sauce

    Makes 3 cups ice cream and ¾ cups of each sauce INGREDIENTS 2 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream 1 cup dulce de leche 5 egg yolks 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon salt ½ cup almonds, toasted and chopped ½ cup fresh strawberries, chopped DIRECTIONS In a medium sauce pan bring the milk,…

  • Shredded Chicken Mole Verde Tostadas

    Makes 15 tostadas INGREDIENTS 2 cups water 1 chicken breast, skinless 2 chicken thighs, skinless 2 chicken legs, skinless ½ large white onion (half reserved), chopped 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup green pumpkin seeds 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 2 whole allspice berries 3…

  • Mango Agua Fresca

    Makes 1 gallon INGREDIENTS 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, deseeded and pureed Zest and juice of 2-3 limes ½ cup honey or light brown sugar 1 cup hot water Gallon of ice cold water DIRECTIONS In a gallon pitcher combine the pureed mangoes, the lime juice and zest and the hot water, add the sugar or…

  • Fresh Mint Ice Cream

    Makes 4 cups INGREDIENTS 2 cups 2% milk 2 cups half and half 1 cup sugar 2 cups fresh mint, chopped 10 egg yolks DIRECTIONS In a heavy bottomed saucepan bring the milk, half and half, sugar, and mint to a boil and reduce heat immediately, and simmer for about 10 minutes stirring gently, allowing…

  • Herb Oven Baked Fries

    Serves 15 INGREDIENTS 15 medium red, yellow and blue potatoes, cut into thin wedges 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ cup fresh chives, chopped fine 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt Pinch of cracked pepper DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 425°F. Mix potatoes, olive oil, and chives in a big mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt and pepper.…

  • Butter-Braised Radishes With Their Greens

    Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1-2 bunches red radishes with their greens (about 2 pounds) 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 to 2 teaspoons brown sugar Sea salt or kosher salt 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar Freshly ground black pepper Freshly grated nutmeg DIRECTIONS Cut the radishes away from their leaves, leaving about ½ inch of green attached.…

  • Wild Leek and Dandelion Frittata with Goat Cheese

    Serves 4 INGREDIENTS ½ pound dandelion greens, ends trimmed 8 large eggs 8 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled ¼ teaspoon coarse sea salt or kosher salt ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 bunch wild leeks, ramps or large leek (white and tender greens only) thinly sliced and washed 1⁄8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes DIRECTIONS…

  • Asparagus Salad with Mimosa and White Wine Vinaigrette

    Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 pound thin asparagus, 1 inch trimmed from the bottoms Sea salt or kosher salt 4½ teaspoons white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon minced scallion (white part only) 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1⁄8 teaspoon honey 4½ teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil Freshly ground black pepper Mimosa (optional) 1 hard-cooked egg 1 tablespoon finely chopped…

  • Sauteed Baby Artichokes with Garlic and Mint

    Serves 4 INGREDIENTS ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 16 baby artichokes, trimmed, stems left on if possible, halved and rubbed with lemon 6 cloves garlic, peeled 2 sprigs fresh thyme ¾ cup dry white wine 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped Sea salt or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper DIRECTIONS Warm the oil…

  • Potage of Spring Greens, with Green Garlic and Mint

    Serves 4-6 INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 cups onions, finely chopped 6 cloves garlic, peeled and left whole Salt 1 small potato, peeled and diced 1 bunch dandelion greens 1 large bunch arugula 4 cups vegetable stock or water 1 (10 ounce) bag baby spinach ½ cup fresh mint leaves ½ cup…