tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31623493615642460122024-03-13T12:29:40.519-07:00Gypsy's KitchenNew Zealand Vegetarian RecipesGypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-27280813657039578332010-08-30T01:33:00.001-07:002010-08-30T01:33:44.507-07:00Raw Cauliflower Salad1 small or ½ a large, head of cauliflower<br />½ small white or savoy cabbage<br />½ cup cashews, soaked for at least 1 hour<br />1 large carrot<br />3 ripe, juicy tomatoes<br />1 fresh date, (remove stone) or 1 tsp honey<br />1 Tbsp flax seed oil or rice bran oil<br />½ tsp each ground cumin, coriander and tumeric<br />Pinch cayenne and salt<br />½ cup raisins, soaked<br /><br />In a large food processor pulse the cauliflower, cabbage and cashews until they are finely ground. Add all remaining ingredients, except the raisins in a food processor and pulse until all well combined. Place in salad bowl and stir through raisins.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-20106629111369180842010-08-30T01:32:00.001-07:002010-09-04T02:01:54.158-07:00Raw Pad ThaiNoodles<br />4 zucchini, peeled or julienne cut into noodles<br /><br />Sauce<br />3/4 cup almond or peanut butter<br />juice of one large orange<br />1 tsp fresh ginger, grated<br />1 small clove garlic, minced<br />1 Tbsp shoyu soy sauce<br />½ Tbsp white miso<br />1 Tbsp honey<br />pinch each cayenne pepper and salt.<br /><br />Blend all the dressing ingredients in blender until smooth. For a thicker sauce, add more almond butter…to thin it out, add more juice. Add more salt and cayenne to taste.<br />Prepare the zucchini and then pour the sauce over to marinate for about 10 minutes.<br /><br />Top with a mixture of the following.<br />Mung bean sprouts<br />Julienned red and yellow peppers<br />Shredded carrots<br />Fresh coriander or mint<br /><br />NB: I have never been able to find raw almond or peanut butter in NZ, although I know in the US raw almond butter is available. Raw peanut butter would taste awful!Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-53825291533451525022010-08-30T01:31:00.002-07:002010-08-30T01:32:22.468-07:00Courgette and Pine nut saladSalad<br />3-4 courgettes, peeled or julienne cut (long strips)<br />2 green onions – chopped<br />1 each red and yellow capsicum – diced<br />1 large carrot – grated<br />2 stalks celery – diced finely<br />½ cup of pine nuts (soaked at least 1 hour)<br />Large handful fresh parsley, coriander or basil<br /><br />Dressing<br />1 avocado<br /> Juice of half a large lemon<br /> 2 tbsp flax oil<br />1 tsp honey<br />1 small clove garlic, minced<br />Pinch each of salt and cayenne pepper<br /> In a blender blend all the dressing ingredients. Toss through the salad and serve.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-14960289710416963322010-08-30T01:31:00.001-07:002010-08-30T01:31:37.861-07:00Cherry Tomato SaladCherry Tomato Salad<br /><br />Salad<br />1 punnet cherry tomatoes<br />1 bag baby spinach leaves<br />Large handful of parsley, basil or coriander<br /><br />Dressing<br />juice of half a large lemon<br />½ clove garlic, crushed<br />¼ tsp kelp or Himalayan salt<br />¼ tsp black pepper<br />1 Tbsp flax oil<br />3 tsp of pinenuts or sunflower seeds (soaked 3-4 hours)<br /> To make dressing, place all ingredients in blender and blend well. Toss through salad ingredients.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-19132793937940451522010-08-30T01:30:00.000-07:002010-08-30T01:31:17.781-07:00Rainbow Slaw<em>Salad</em><br />¼ of both a red and green cabbage, finally sliced<br />2 carrots, grated<br />1 zucchini, grated<br />1 small apple, grated<br />3-4 large spinach leaves, finely sliced<br />½ cup sultanas, soaked<br /><br /><em>Dressing<br /></em>½ clove garlic<br />1 teaspoon of fresh ginger<br />Juice of ½ lemon<br />Juice of ½ orange<br />3 tablespoons of flax oil<br />Pinch of salt<br /><br /><br />Blend the dressing, and stir through all ingredients. Leave for at least ten minutes so the salad absorbs the dressing flavours.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-57219844508759147542010-08-30T01:29:00.000-07:002010-08-30T01:30:18.403-07:00Chickpea and Chermoula SaladChickpea and Chermoula Salad<br /><br />Chermoula Dressing<br />1/2 cup sunflower seeds (soaked)<br />1/2 cup almonds (soaked)<br />3 Tbsp rice bran oil<br />3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice<br />1 tsp salt<br />1 tsp each ground cumin, coriander and turmeric<br />1 small garlic clove, crushed<br /><br />Salad<br />1 cup sprouted (or cooked) chickpeas<br />½ bag baby spinach leaves<br />Cherry tomatoes, halved<br />2-3 Tbsp coriander, chopped (optional)<br /><br />To make the dressing, place all ingredients in an air-tight jar and shake well. Will keep for at least 5 days.<br /> To make the salad, combine all ingredients, and toss through the dressing.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-14424888598678443232010-08-30T01:25:00.000-07:002010-08-30T01:28:22.720-07:00Stuffed tomatoes2 large, ripe tomatoes<br />¼ cup sunflower seeds or pine nuts (soaked in water for at least an hour)<br />¼ cup sundried tomatoes, roughly chopped (soaked in water for at least an hour)<br />Small handful fresh basil, chopped<br />½ clove garlic minced<br />Pinch salt<br /><br /><br />Cut a slice off the top of the fresh tomatoes, leaving stems attached to slice, and set tops aside. Scoop out seeds and flesh.<br /><br />In a blender, blend the drained sunflower seeds with the drained sundried tomatoes. Mix in the chopped basil, garlic, and salt.<br /><br />Stuff the tomatoes with the blended mixture. Top with some extra basil leaves, and place the tomato lids back on top. Serve with a leafy green salad.<br /><br />Alternatively, use red or yellow capsicums and stuff those with the mixture.<br />NB: Pine nuts will give a richer, creamier taste – but they are very expensive. Sunflower seeds are far more economical.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-54272895055025338152010-08-30T01:24:00.001-07:002010-08-30T01:24:58.259-07:00Sesame and Miso Salad<em>Dressing:<br /></em>2 Tbsp rice bran oil<br />1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar<br />1 Tbsp white miso paste<br />1 Tbsp shoyu soy sauce<br />1 tsp sesame oil<br />1 tsp raw honey<br />½ tsp garlic, minced<br />½ tsp ginger, minced<br /><br /><em>Salad:</em><br />Julienned vegetables such as<br />- savoy cabbage<br />- broccoli florets<br />- red and yellow capsicums<br />- courgettes<br />- carrots<br />- mung beans<br /><br />Make the dressing by placing all ingredients in a blender or an airtight jar and mixing well.<br />Place in the bottom of a salad bowl, add the salad ingredients and toss well. Leave for at least 20-30 minutes to marinate.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-40632708149559759052010-08-30T01:23:00.000-07:002010-08-30T01:24:12.323-07:00Salsa Ranchos1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil<br />1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar<br />1 small clove garlic, minced<br />½ tsp sea-salt<br />½ tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)<br />¼ red onion, finely diced<br />4 large tomatoes, seeded and diced<br />1 large yellow or red capsicum, seeded and diced<br />1 large courgette, grated<br />1 large carrot, grated<br /><br />Mix the first five ingredients together in a bowl, then add the vegetables and stir well. Leave for at least 20 minutes to marinade.<br /><br />Roll up in large cos/romaine leaves, use it to stuff avocados, serve with soft scrambled eggs or tofu, or just eat it out of the bowl.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-90428011543136812552010-08-30T01:22:00.001-07:002014-09-08T14:44:31.728-07:00Yet another Bliss Ball RecipeThis is probably the simplest bliss ball recipe I make. Super yummy, with a fudgy texture. Plus, very very easy.<br />
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2 cups brazil nuts (or use any nuts you wish) <br />
1/2 cup pitted dates, soaked<br />
2 Tbsp melted cacao butter<br />
2 Tbsp melted coconut butter <br />
1 Tbsp raw honey or maple syrup <br />
1 tsp cinnamon or 1 Tbsp raw cacao powder <br />
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Place all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until pureed. Shape into balls. Put in fridge until set.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-91474677398558836212010-08-30T01:19:00.000-07:002010-08-30T01:21:37.483-07:00Bliss Balls Again .. the posh versionBliss balls for company<br /><br />5 dried apricots (soaked)<br />4 fresh, pitted dates<br />6 walnuts<br />2 tablespoons of pumpkin seeds<br />1/2 cup tablespoon of dried cherries or cranberries (soaked)<br />1 tablespoon of raw cacao nibs<br />Desiccated coconut or cocoa for rolling<br /><br />Place all ingredients apart from the coconut in a food processor and pulse until it forms a paste. Roll into balls and then roll in coconut or cocoa. Store in fridge.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-87039773813074348482010-08-30T01:09:00.000-07:002010-08-30T01:13:06.288-07:00Chocolate Bliss BallsHeaven in a little ball ....<br /><br />1 cup walnuts<br />1/2 cup pitted dates, unsoaked<br />2 Tbsp cocoa powder<br />1 Tbsp coconut oil<br />1 tsp pure vanilla extract or 1/2 tsp vanilla paste<br />tiny pinch of sea salt<br />Extra cocoa or coconut for rolling<br /><br />Process walnut and dates in a food processor until well combined. Add oil, cocoa powder, sea salt and vanilla. Roll into small balls, and coat in cocoa or coconut. Keep in fridge.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-46977594932785318532010-08-30T01:06:00.000-07:002010-08-30T01:14:41.773-07:00Greek Tomato Salad<strong>Greek<em> </em>Tomato Salad<br /></strong><br /><em>Dressing</em><br />1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil<br />1 lemon, juiced<br />1 Tbsp raw honey<br />1 Tbsp each fresh basil & mint<br />1 small clove garlic, minced<br />1/2 teaspoon sea salt<br />pinch of freshly cracked black pepper<br /><br />Place all ingredients in an air-tight jar and shake well to combine. This dressing will keep in an air- tight jar in the fridge for over a week.<br /><br /><em>Salad</em><br />3 ripe tomatoes, chopped, or a handful of cherry tomatoes halved<br />1 small cucumber, sliced<br />1 Tbsp olives<br />1/2 small red onion, sliced in rings<br />2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley<br />4 cups romaine or green leaf lettuce, torn<br /><br />In a bowl combine the tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion and parsley and then drizzle and toss with the dressing. Arrange the torn lettuce evenly on plates, and top evenly with the tomato mixture.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-26197109833613354562010-03-13T01:08:00.000-08:002010-03-13T01:27:48.104-08:00Tiny MealsI was hoping to have a new recipe today ... for some tofu and bean patties I tried. They were something of a flop and not worth sharing sadly. Will try again.<br /><br />But on a far more cheerful note, I have been really inspired by this blog <a href="http://www.tinysimplicity.com/">'Tiny Simplicity'</a>. The latest post is about 'Tiny Meals' and its got me thinking.<br /><br /><br />If any of you read my other blog, you'll know that I strive for simplicity. While it has always been something I have strived for, lately <a href="http://mnmlist.com/">inspired </a>by <a href="http://walkslowlylivewildlly.com/">some</a> <a href="http://thenonconsumeradvocate.com/">fabulous bloggers</a> I have been going hardcore when it comes to decluttering and simplifying.<br /><br /><br />I love the idea of a 'tiny meal'. While Chris doesn't give us any examples, I have been thinking about what a tiny meal would look like for me.<br /><br /><br />A 'tiny meal' would have just a few ingredients, and little or no cooking. It would be fresh, health-ful and balanced. Of course, it would also be delicious.<br /><br /><br /><br />- a half avocado with some grainy bread and sliced tomato<br /><br />- quinoa with chickpeas, fresh herbs and diced capsicums, with some lemon juice and olive oil<br /><br />- an omelette (with organic, ethically sourced eggs) with mushrooms<br /><br />- marinated tempeh on grainy bread with veganaise, tomatoe, avocado and salad greens<br /><br />- wholemeal pita breads with hummus and salad greens<br /><br />- boiled potatoes, hard boiled eggs, salad greens and veganaise<br /><br />- baked beans in a tortilla with quacamole and lettuce<br /><br /><br /><br />Sometimes, a more substantial 'tiny meal' could be easily pulled out from the freezer and heated in a saucepan. In this case, I think a 'one pot rule' should apply if a meal can be considered 'tiny'.<br /><br /><br /><br />- some good vegetable soup (recipes to come)<br /><br />- <a href="http://gypsyskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/01/lentil-and-brown-rice-casserole.html">lentil and brown rice bake</a><br /><br />- <a href="http://gypsyskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/02/mushroom-and-spinach-lasagne.html">vegan lasagne</a><br /><p>I would love to know if you have any thoughts about tiny meals. Do you seek to simplify your meals? I can see this approach would really make my time in the kitchen much more peaceful.<br /></p>Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-73388953496901459932010-02-26T23:57:00.000-08:002010-04-17T15:48:12.775-07:00"I can't believe its vegan " Chocolate CakeThis recipe I found in a great wee cookbook called "<a href="http://havelocknorth.poppiesbooks.co.nz/books/The_Great_Vege_Road_Trip__Vegetarian_Recipes_from__Around_New_Zealand/1869537459.html?option=results&search_by=isbn&search_text=1869537459&Fnew_search=1&pagestyle=single&nsBookshop_Session=e567d39c6f5545bde6b8ed8a2409ef40">the great new zealand vege road trip"</a> ... it is full of recipes from cafes around New Zealand. This recipe harks from the Eutopia cafe in Kaiwaka which is an unlikely have for organic and vegan food, mainly because of the success of Kay Baxter's <a href="http://www.koanga.co.nz/pages/about.html">Koanga Gardens.</a><br /><br />Anyway, I have made the recipe largely as per the instructions, although I find a smaller banana makes the recipe more chocolately. I also added in a splosh of very strong espresso because I love that kind of flavour.<br /><br />I have made it as a whole cake, but actually prefer it as cupcake, in which case this recipe will make about 18 - 24.<br /><br />I baked some as cupcakes for a bunch of committed carnivores, including a large policeman friend of mine, and he actually couldn't believe it when I told him (after he had eaten several) that it was vegan.<br /><br />Cake<br />3 cups flour<br />2 tsp baking soda<br />1 tsp salt<br />1/2 cup cocoa<br />2 cups sugar<br />1/ 2 cup rice bran oil<br />2 Tbsp vinegar (I used apple cider but white would be fine too)<br />2 tsp vanilla essence<br />2 cups cold water<br />1 small-medium banana, mashed<br />2 Tbsp strong coffee, optional<br /><br />Icing<br />1 Tsbp olivani or other dairy free spread<br />2 cups icing sugar<br />1/2 cup cocoa<br />1 Tbsp vanilla essence or strong coffee<br />1 Tsbp approx boiling water<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 180 degrees celcius fan bake.<br />Grease a 23 cm cake tin and line with baking paper, or grease 2 x 12 hole muffin tins.<br /><br />In a large bowl combine the dry ingredients. Make three wells in the mixture and in each place the vanilla, oil, and vinegar. Pour cold water over, add the banana and coffee if usig. Mix well and then pour into prepared tins.<br /><br />Bake for 45-50 minutes (15 minutes for cupcakes) until a skewer comes out clean.<br /><br />For the icing place all the ingredients in a pyrex dish and mix well. Add a few drops more water if needed. Ice cakes once cool.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-39959584267406113842010-02-21T23:40:00.000-08:002010-02-21T23:50:11.741-08:00Italian Bean StewThis is the ultimate comfort food - a rich broth and creamy beans, full of late summer vegetables.<br /><br /><strong>Italian Bean Stew</strong><br /><br />1 large red onion, finely chopped<br />3 large garlic cloves, minced<br />1 large eggplant, peeled and cubed<br />2 courgettes, finely sliced and then chopped<br />1 - 2 red or yellow capsicums (bell peppers) cored, deseeded and chopped<br />2 tins of chopped Italian tomatoes<br />1 cup vegetable stock<br />1 Tsbp balsamic vinegar<br />1/2 tsp sugar<br />1 cup dried white beans, soaked overnight (cannellini beans are lovely)<br />1 tsp mixed spice<br />8-10 basil leaves, chopped<br />salt and pepper to taste<br /><br />In a large saucepan coated in spray oil saute the onion, garlic and eggplants until they soften. Add the remaining ingredients except the basil, and cook for approximately 2 hours, until the beans soften. (will be less if you are using tinned beans). Taste and season, stir through the basil and serve.<br /><br />This is ideal over spaghetti or polenta, and freezes very well.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-69411328865835221272010-02-21T18:23:00.000-08:002010-02-21T18:48:09.696-08:00Mushroom and Spinach LasagneYet another use for pureed tofu ... this makes a seriously yummy, ultra low fat lasagne. It freezes well and looks beautiful for entertaining.<br /><br />Many mainstream brands of pasta are made with just semolina flour and water, but obviously if you are vegan check the labels!<br /><br /><strong>Mushroom and spinach lasagne</strong><br /><br />1 Tbsp olive oil<br />1 large red onion<br />3 large garlic cloves, minced<br />2 cups button mushrooms, washed<br />1 packet of soft tofu<br />1 large handful of basil leaves<br />1 cup of frozen spinach, cooked and squeezed out<br />2 tins of tomato passata<br />1/2 tsp freshly ground nutmeg (or dried is fine too)<br />large pinch each of salt and pepper.<br />1 packet of lasagne sheets (egg-free pasta is fairly easy to find)<br />a large handful of grated cheese (or cheeze) for the top<br /><br />Get out your food processor and finely chop the onion and mushrooms. In a large saucepan heat the oil and then saute the onion, garlic and mushrooms. Season with the nutmeg, salt and pepper. Stir in the spinach.<br /><br />While these are cooking puree the tofu and basil leaves in the food processor.<br /><br />In a large lasagne dish sprayed with spray oil place one layer of lasagne, then top with half the mushroom mix, then half the tofu mix, then half the passata. Place another layer of lasagne and then the mushroom, tofu and passata again. Finish with a layer of lasagne, top this with some leftover passata (brush it across the pasta, especially the edges) and some grated cheese.<br /><br />Bake for 30-40 minutes in a moderate oven.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-2648629043231824262010-02-21T00:01:00.000-08:002010-08-30T01:13:36.140-07:00Hummus in a hurry<em>"Hummus is to vegetarians and vegans what air is to the rest of humanity" Veganomicon</em><br /><br />You really don't need a recipe for hummus, but I find myself writing this one down for people quite often. Certainly, you can buy some great hummus at pretty much every supermarket even in the most rural parts of New Zealand - but nothing beats home made.<br /><br />I like my hummus quite thick for sandwiches. I particularly love a wholegrain roll with hummus, sliced avocado and tomato - it is my favourite lunch at the moment.<br /><br />If you prefer a thinner hummus you can add water - start with 2 Tbsp and go up from there. I tend to be quite light on the tahini and heavy on the lemon juice - its all about personal preference. I use a 'whizz-stick' (immersion blender) as I can never be bothered dragging the food processor out, but the food processor or a full blender would make it much smoother.<br /><br /><strong>Hummus</strong><br /><br />1 x tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed<br />1 Tbsp olive oil<br />juice of a large lemon<br />1 Tbsp tahini paste<br />1 clove garlic, minced<br />Large handful parsley or coriander<br />Salt, pepper and chilli flakes (to taste)<br /><br />Place all ingredients in a large bowl, and puree using an immersion blender.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-4025012963514607492010-02-17T23:17:00.000-08:002010-02-17T23:26:55.690-08:00Eggplant and Brown Rice BakeI made this today for our family lunch ... it managed to feed 10 hungry people and seemed to please everyone from hard core vegans to staunch carnivores.<br /><br />We served it with a big salad (thanks Kate!), some crumbled feta and some ciabatta bread.<br /><br />Eggplant and Brown Rice Bake<br /><br />2 cups brown rice<br />1 large onion<br />3 cloves garlic, minced<br />1 large eggplant, peeled<br />3 large red capsicums, cored and sliced<br />1 tin chopped italian tomatoes or passata<br />1 cup vegetable stock<br />1 cup frozen spinach, cooked and drained<br />2 packets tofu, or if you are not catering for vegans try 1 tofu and 1 feta<br />large handful of basil<br />pepper, salt and chilli<br /><br />Firstly, boil the brown rice in a large saucepan of salted water for 30-40 minutes until just tender.<br /><br />In a food processor finely chop the onion and garlic, and then cook these in a large frypan coated with spray oil. Using the food processor again (you don't need to clean it out obviously) chop the eggplant and capsicums, then add these to the frypan. Cook over a moderate heat.<br /><br />Meanwhile use the food processor to puree the tofu (and the feta if using) and basil.<br /><br />In a very large casserole dish or lasagne pan place the brown rice, the frypan mixture, the tofu mixture, the stock, the tomatoes, and the seasonings and mix well. You could top it with cheese if you felt so inclined.<br /><br />(It can be cooked ahead to this point and left overnight)<br /><br />Bake for 45 minutes in a moderate oven.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-57535050527335406792010-02-16T22:33:00.000-08:002014-09-08T14:45:06.790-07:00All about quacamoleIts avocado season, which means I can buy them for about 50 cents each and almost always get a beautiful one!<br />
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Guacamole is a great way to use lots of avocados. It goes wonderfully with all sorts of foods - obviously its great with mexican (try it with the <a href="http://gypsyskitchen.blogspot.com/2009/11/mexicana-chicken.html">pinto bean casserole</a>) and I love it in <a href="http://gypsyskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/01/bean-burgers.html">burgers</a>. Its great with potato wedges, or as a dip for raw vegetables.<br />
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There are so many ways to make quacamole, but in my not-so-humble opinion the essential ingredients are avocado, lemon juice and a decent amount of salt. Under salted quacamole just won't quite have the same taste I'm sorry to say.<br />
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After those 3 ingredients its a question of your own personal taste. Sour cream makes for a creamier dip obviously, garlic and tabasco sauce makes it delicously pungent, you can even mix it with some whipped up light cream cheese (which is the cream cheese/cottage cheese blend).<br />
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Here is my recipe for my perfect vegan quacamole.<br />
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<strong>Gypsy's Quacamole</strong><br />
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2 large, ripe avocados<br />
juice of 1/2 - 1 lemon<br />
generous pinch of salt<br />
a few drops of tabasco or a pinch of cayenne<br />
1/2 small garlic clove, minced<br />
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Use a fork to mash the avocado until its smooth but not pureed. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Eat immediately. Use your fingers to lick the bowl!Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-23102495151886134752010-02-14T22:37:00.000-08:002010-02-15T00:32:26.596-08:00Tofu Stir FryAs a little girl I used to get the left over tofu from this recipe in my lunchbox ... its suprisingly good. Don't be put off tofu until you have tried this - its delicious and makes for a high protein , low fat, super easy dinner.<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Tofu Stir Fry</strong><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:85%;">Tofu Marinade</span></strong><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1 clove garlic, minced</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1 tsp ginger, minced</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1/4 cup soy sauce</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">2 Tbsp sweet chilli sauce</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1 tsp sesame oil</span><br /><br />300g packet firm organic tofu cut into 5-7mm slices<br /><br />Assorted vegetables e.g.<br />1 large carrot cut into thin sticks<br />1 large handful mung beans<br />1 small head broccoli cut into small florets<br />1/2 cups sliced mushrooms<br />1 red or yellow capsicum sliced<br /><br />Place the sliced tofu in the marinade for at least 1 hour, or even overnight.<br /><br />Spray a large frypan with spray oil and heat to medium-high. Place the tofu slices (reserve the marinade) and the vegetables that will require longer cooking (carrots, capsicums). Cook for around 4-5 minutes, tun the tofu to brown the other side and add remaining vegetables and leftover marinade.<br /><br />Serve with rice.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-63385353649125678192010-02-14T00:44:00.000-08:002010-02-14T00:55:58.552-08:00Caramelized Onion CalzoneCalzones are one of my favourite things to eat, being the carb addict that I am. You can fill them with all sorts of leftovers, so they are a great budget dish. In case you don't know what I am on about check out this <a href="http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/vegetarian-recipes/calzone">one at Jamie Oliver's site</a>.<br /><br />Tonight was the best ever - I filled mine with some canned kidney beans, <a href="http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_caramelize_onions/">caramelized onions</a>, feta cheese and mozzarella cheese. Not an exceptionally healthy dinner but great for a treat, and they go well with a huge green salad.<br /><br />Here's my recipe for <strong>calzone dough. </strong>This will make enough for four hungry adults!<br /><br />1 c lukewarm water<br />2 t active dry yeast<br />1 t salt<br />1/2 t sugar<br />3 c flour - a mix of wholemeal and white is lovely<br />2 Tbsp olive oil<br /><br />In a bowl, combine the water, yeast, salt and sugar, and stir to dissolve. Set aside in a warm place for 15 minutes, then add the flour, and mix until smooth. Turn the dough out onto a floured board and knead for 5 minutes, adding more flour if necessary.<br /><br />The dough should feel smooth and elastic. Lightly oil a bowl, pop the dough inside and cover. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.<br /><br />Cut the dough into 4 pieces, and roll each piece out into a large circle. I use a small dinner plate and cut around it to get a neat calzone. Place the filling in the middle and fold over, using your fingers to pinch the dough together. Use a fork to pierce some holes for the steam to escape, and then bake for 20-25 minutes.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-78988313214131210122010-02-12T23:53:00.000-08:002010-02-13T00:00:47.656-08:00Seriously scrummy lentil and brown rice pattiesI've said it before that lentils and brown rice don't deserve their appalling reputation. Make these delicious patties and serve them with a huge salad ... a really wonderful balanced meal. You can even use them for burger patties.<br /><br />This is a big quantity - it makes 18 muffin tin sized patties easily. They freeze really well - just spray a patty pan with olive oil, pop the mix in and freeze. Then pop them out and put them in a large zip lock bag.<br /><br /><br />Lentil and Brown Rice Patties<br /><br />1 large onion<br />1 large carrot<br />2 large garlic cloves, minced<br />2 huge handful of leafy herbs - coriander, mint and/or parsley<br />1 cup brown lentils<br />1 cup brown rice<br />1-2 Tbsp each soy sauce and either sweet chilli or tomato sauces<br />2-4 Tbsp flour<br /><br />In a large saucepan cook the lentils and rice together for around 45-50 minutes until tender. Drain.<br /><br />Meanwhile, in a large food processor finely chop the onion, carrot, garlic and herbs. Add the lentils and rice, and then add the sauce and flour as required to make a mixture that is not too sloppy!<br /><br />Cook either in a fry pan or under the grill for 5-10 minutes a side until slightly brownGypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-81736177819513742952010-02-12T00:15:00.000-08:002010-02-15T00:36:19.862-08:00Quick Tempeh CurryThis is a real weeknight staple in our house. I have suggested some vegetables, but use whatever you have to hand.<br /><br />If you have never tried tempeh, you are missing out. Granted, it looks pretty foul but it tastes amazing and has roughly twice the protein of tofu. Unlike tofu, tempeh freezes particularly well, so this curry is a good one to cook in advance and defrost on nights you don't feel like cooking. Serve with rice and yoghurt or raita as you prefer.<br /><br /><strong>Tempeh Curry</strong><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Serves 4-6</span></em><br /><br />1 onion, finely chopped<br />1 cloves garlic, minced<br />125 grams tempeh (half a packet) sliced 5mm thick<br />2-3 tbsp red curry paste<br />1 tin chopped italian tomatoes<br />1 cup veggie stock<br />1/2 tin coconut milk<br />1 red or yellow capsicum, sliced<br />1 green zucchini, sliced<br />1/2 small head of broccoli<br />1/2 small head of cauliflower<br />1 large carrot, sliced<br /><br />In a large wok or frypan coated with spray oil saute the onion, garlic and tempeh until the onion and tempeh are slightly browning. Add the curry paste, the tomatoes, stock, coconut milk and cook for about 15 -20 minutes before adding the vegetables. Cook for a further 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has reduced.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3162349361564246012.post-26833237240175351362010-02-12T00:08:00.000-08:002010-08-30T01:17:30.144-07:00Bliss ballsIts hard to believe that something that tastes this amazing can also be incredibly healthy. Even my 3 year old will scoff them down.<br /><br />They are also wonderful for using up leftovers as you can put so many different things in them. Use up that last bit of peanut butter or almond butter, the few prunes or cranberries at the bottom of the packet, the chia seeds you bought but don't seem to be using!<br /><br />They are lovely to serve with a cheeseboard after a dinner party if you are feeling flash, and are a wonderful gift for students in the middle of exam time.<br /><br /><strong>Gypsy's Bliss Balls</strong><br /><br />1/4 cup tahini or peanut butter<br />1/2 cup honey<br />½ cup desiccated coconut<br />1/2 cup dried apricot pieces, or other dried fruit<br />1/2 cup dried dates<br />1/2 cup sultanas, or other dried fruit. Cranberries are great!<br />1/2 cup almonds, brazil nuts, walnuts<br />1/2 cup seeds e.g. pumpkin, sunflower, chia etc.<br />Extra coconut for rolling.<br /><br />Mix all ingredients together in a food processor until a fine, sticky mixture is produced. Use more honey if necessary.<br />Shape into balls with wet hands and roll in coconut.<br />Refrigerate until firm.Gypsyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14507297241750333316noreply@blogger.com0