Search This Blog

Showing posts with label ~Entree. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ~Entree. Show all posts

Indian - Chana Dhansak


TOTAL TIME:1 hr 45 min
Prep: 15 min
Inactive Prep: 30 min
Cook:1 hr
YIELD:4 to 6 servings
LEVEL:Easy

Ingredients

GHEE:
  • 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
 
DHANSAK:
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamon seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppercorns
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
FRIED ONIONS:
  • 1 small yellow onion, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • Canola oil, for deep-frying onions
CURRY:
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 fresh red chile pepper, minced
  • 1 knob fresh ginger, peeled and minced
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 4 cups organic vegetable stock
  • 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
  • 3/4 cup dried split red lentils
  • 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups canned chickpeas, drained
  • 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Directions
  • To make the ghee: Simmer the butter in a saucepan on medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not stir, but delicately skim off any froth. When there are golden brown protein bits at the bottom and the butter begins to turn an amber color, take off the heat immediately. Let cool for 30 minutes, and then strain through cheesecloth into a jar.

    To make the dhansak: Heat a dry pan over medium-high heat. Throw in the spices and toast for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until fragrant. Once toasted, grind the spices in a mortar and pestle, or use a coffee grinder.

    To make the fried onions: Heat some canola oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and deep-fry until dark and crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    To make the curry: Heat the ghee in a saucepan over medium heat. Throw in the garlic, chiles and ginger, and saute until the garlic is golden, about 1 minute. Add the red onions and saute until they have some crispy, caramelized edges, about 12 minutes. Add the ground dhansak spice mix, stir and saute for 1 more minute. Deglaze the saucepan with the stock. Add the tamarind paste, lentils and sweet potatoes and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove the garlic and ginger pieces, add the chickpeas, cilantro and salt and heat through for 5 minutes.

    Spoon the curry into a serving bowl. Sprinkle with cilantro and top with the fried onion slices. Serve with brown rice, naan or whole wheat pita.
 

Turkish Pizza a la Rendezvous


TOTAL TIME: 40 min
Prep: 30 min
Inactive Prep:--
Cook: 10 min
YIELD:8 servings
LEVEL:Intermediate

Ingredients

PIZZA BASE:
  • 1 teaspoon cracked fennel seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1 ounce fresh baker's yeast or 1/2 ounce dried yeast
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon salt
PIZZA TOPPINGS:
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Large roasted eggplant pureed with a garlic clove, chopped mint, pinch each of cumin and coriander, and 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 tomatoes, coarsely cut (1/2 tomato for each pizza)
  • 4 cups crumbled goat's milk feta cheese (1/2 cup for each pizza)
  • 2 cups chopped black olives (1/4 cup for each pizza)
  • 8 tablespoons chopped capers (1 tablespoon for each pizza)
  • Maras pepper, for sprinkling
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Chopped fresh wild marjoram, for garnish
  • Cook's Note: Maras pepper is a Turkish dried and crushed red pepper

Directions

In a small saute pan, gently warm the fennel seeds, pepper, rosemary and thyme in the olive oil. The temperature should not go above 110 degrees F. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool for a few minutes.In the meantime, in a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water and add the yeast. When the mixture starts to foam on top, after about 3 minutes, add the flour, salt and the infused olive oil. Knead until the dough is smooth and shiny, about 5 minutes.Divide each 14 ounce ball into 4 equal portions. Do not knead these balls, but roll them out into 8 flat rounds approximately 9 inches in diameter.Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F.Drizzle each pizza with extra-virgin olive oil before topping. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes.Sprinkle the cooked pizzas with chopped parsley and wild marjoram and another light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.

Wild Mushroom and Venison Stroganoff


TOTAL TIME: 40 min
Prep: 20 min
Inactive Prep:--
Cook: 20 min
YIELD:2 servings
LEVEL:Intermediate

Ingredients

  • 7 ounces white rice
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium red onion, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and finely sliced
  • 11 ounces venison loin, fat and sinews removed, trimmed and sliced into finger-sized pieces
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 9 ounces mixed exciting, robust mushrooms, wiped clean, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • Small bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked and roughly chopped, stalks finely chopped
  • Knob of butter
  • Good splash brandy
  • 1 lemon, zested
  • 2/3 cup creme fraiche or sour cream
  • Few little gherkins, sliced

Directions

Cook the rice according to the package instructions until it's just undercooked and drain in a colander. Put the rice back in the pan, cover with aluminum foil and set aside to steam - this will give you incredibly light and fluffy rice.

Heat a large frying pan on a medium heat and pour in a glug of extra-virgin olive oil. Add the onions and garlic and cook for about 10 minutes until softened and golden. Remove from the heat and spoon the onions and garlic out of the pan onto a plate. Set aside.

Season the meat well with salt, pepper and the paprika. Rub and massage these flavorings into the meat. Place the frying pan back on a high heat and pour in some more olive oil. Add the mushrooms and fry for a few minutes until they start to brown. Then add the meat and fry for a minute or 2 before adding the parsley stalks (you can do this in 2 pans or in batches if your pan is not big enough) and the cooked onion and garlic. Toss and add the butter and brandy.

You don't have to light the hot brandy, but flaming does give an interesting flavor so I always like to do this. Once the flames die down, or after a couple of minutes of simmering, stir in the lemon zest and all but 1 tablespoon of the creme fraiche and season, to taste. Continue simmering for a few minutes. Any longer than this and the meat will toughen up - it doesn't need long, as it's been cut up so small.

Serve your fluffy rice on 1 big plate and your stroganoff on another. Simply spoon the remaining creme fraiche over the stroganoff, then sprinkle over the sliced gherkins and the parsley leaves. Eat at once!

Asian Chicken Burger with Spicy Lemongrass Mayo and Pickled Asian Slaw


TOTAL TIME: 55 min
Prep: 20 min
Inactive Prep: 25 min
Cook: 10 min
YIELD:4 servings
LEVEL:Easy

Ingredients

SPICY LEMONGRASS MAYO:
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chili sauce, such as Sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon bruised and finely minced lemongrass
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
 
ASIAN CHICKEN BURGER:
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken, half dark and half white meat
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 scallions, green and white parts minced
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 4 sesame-seed hamburger buns, halved and buttered
  • Pickled Asian Slaw, for serving, recipe follows
PICKLED ASIAN SLAW:
  • 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Kosher salt and cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons thinly sliced pickled ginger
  • 1/4 small head napa cabbage, finely shredded (about 3 cups)
  • 1/4 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

Directions

For the spicy lemongrass mayo: Mix together the mayonnaise, chili sauce, lime zest and juice and lemongrass in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

For the Asian chicken burger: Combine the chicken, hoisin, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic and scallions in a large bowl. Mix together and form into 4 equal patties about 1/2-inch thick and 4 inches wide. This patty will be a bit wetter than your average patty because of the sauces and flavor in there. Sprinkle each side of the patties generously with salt and pepper. Create a small well in the center of each patty, using your thumb.

Cook your patties on the griddle over medium heat until golden brown on each side and 160 degrees F, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Because of the sugar content in these patties, they can burn easily so watch your heat. Let rest 5 minutes. Place your buns on the griddle and toast them.

For assembling: Place some of the spicy lemongrass mayo on each side of the buns. Add the chicken patties and top with the Pickled Asian Slaw. Finish with the top bun and serve with additional slaw and mayo on the side.
Add the rice wine vinegar to a mixing bowl and whisk in the sesame oil and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Add the ginger, cabbage and peppers and toss to coat with the dressing. Adjust the seasoning and let sit 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving. Yield: 2 cups.

Sesame Eggplant with Tofu


TOTAL TIME: 30 min
Prep: 15 min
Inactive Prep:--
Cook: 15 min
YIELD:4 servings
LEVEL:Easy

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup peanut oil
  • 2 pounds Japanese or Italian eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
  • 1/2 pound firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 4 green onions, bottoms minced and tops sliced, reserved separately
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon dark Asian sesame oil

Directions

Heat 1/4 cup of the oil in a large nonstick saute pan. When it is hot, add 1/2 of the eggplant and 3/4 teaspoon of the salt. Cook until the eggplant is nicely browned and softened, stirring as necessary to promote even browning, about 5 minutes. Add half of the green onion bottoms, 1 tablespoon garlic, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper, 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds, and 1/2 tablespoon of the sesame oil. Toss to combine. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Repeat with the remaining ingredients plus the tofu.Combine both batches in the same pan, add the green onion tops, and heat briefly until warmed through, 1 minute. Serve immediately.

Slow Cooker Asian BBQ Ribs


TOTAL TIME:5 hr 45 min
Prep: 15 min
Inactive Prep:--
Cook:5 hr 30 min
YIELD:6 servings
LEVEL:Easy

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh ginger
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 bunch green onions, white and green parts, chopped
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chili sauce
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup rice wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 large racks pork baby back ribs (4 to 5 pounds)
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

Heat the sesame oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Saute the ginger, garlic and green onions until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the brown sugar, chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, honey and 1/2 cup water. Whisk until fully incorporated. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.

Sprinkle the ribs liberally with salt and pepper and place in an upright position in the slow cooker. The meaty side should be facing outwards. Spoon the sauce over the ribs and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Strain the sauce from the slow cooker into a saucepan and remove any accumulated grease from the top. Combine 1 tablespoon water with the cornstarch and whisk together in a small bowl. Add the mixture to the saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the sauce until thickened and serve with the ribs.

Cook's Note: For a crisper texture, slather the ribs in the reduced sauce and char (meaty-side down) on a hot grill or under the broiler, 1 to 2 minutes per side, before serving with the remaining sauce.

Crisp Five-Spice Calamari with Spicy Citrus Noodles


TOTAL TIME: 25 min
Prep: 15 min
Inactive Prep: 5 min
Cook: 5 min
YIELD:4 servings
LEVEL:Easy

Ingredients

NOODLES AND DRESSING:
  • 8 ounces bean thread noodles ( vermicelli)
  • 2 tablespoons peanut or toasted sesame oil
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons Sriracha chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
  • Juice of 1 large pink grapefruit
  • 1 serrano chile, sliced into thin rings
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
 
CALAMARI:
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 2 heaping tablespoons potato starch
  • 3 large yolks, beaten
  • 3 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 pound fresh squid tubes, cleaned and sliced into rings
  • Small handful fresh Thai basil stems
  • Small handful fresh cilantro stems
  • Small handful fresh mint stems
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

For the noodles and dressing: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Put the noodles in a large bowl and pour boiling water over them to cover. Let stand for 4 minutes, and then drain in a colander, rinse with cold water, shake well, and transfer to a bowl. Drizzle the oil on top, toss well to coat, and set aside.

Stir together the chili sauce, ginger, honey, sugar, grapefruit juice and lemon juice until well combined. Stir in the chiles and set aside.

For the calamari: Stir together the five-spice powder, salt and white pepper in a small bowl and set aside. Whisk together the potato starch and yolks in a medium bowl. If the batter is too thick to pour from a spoon, add water a few teaspoons at a time until thinned.

Pour the oil into a wok and warm to 350 degrees F over high heat (a cube of bread will turn golden and float to the surface within 10 to 15 seconds when ready). Dip the calamari rings into the batter using a slotted spoon and stir until well coated. Shake off the excess batter and carefully lower into the hot oil. Fry, stirring frequently with a strainer, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer the calamari to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain and sprinkle the spice mix over while hot.

To serve, divide the noodles among 4 shallow bowls. Drizzle two-thirds of the dressing evenly over the noodles, top each with calamari, and then drizzle the remaining dressing on top. Mix together the Thai basil, cilantro and mint stems, divide into 4 bundles and garnish each bowl with 1 herb bundle and lime wedges, for squeezing at the table.

Seared Ginger-Balsamic Salmon with Hot and Sour Slaw

                                                           
TOTAL TIME:45 min
Prep:15 min
Inactive Prep:--
Cook:30 min
YIELD:4 servings
LEVEL:Easy

Ingredients

  • 4 pieces (6 ounces each) center-cut salmon fillets with skin, patted dry
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 teaspoons olive or canola oil
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 medium red pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into dice
  • 1 bag (9 ounces) shredded broccoli slaw (3 1/2 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine or sake
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar
  • HOT AND SOUR DRESSING (COMBINE IN A SMALL BOWL):
    • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    • 3 tablespoons sugar
    • 2 tablespoons Chinese black vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt

    Directions

    Season the salmon fillets with the salt and pepper.In a wok or heavy skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of the olive or canola oil and the sesame oil over high heat until hot, but not smoking. Add the ginger and red pepper flakes and stir-fry until fragrant, about 10 seconds. Add the diced red pepper and toss lightly over high heat. Add the broccoli slaw, toss lightly, and pour in the rice wine. Stir and cover. Cook over medium-high heat for a minute or two. Uncover and add the Hot and Sour Dressing. Toss lightly for a minute and remove to a serving bowl.Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, about 10 seconds. Arrange the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up. Partially cover and sear until well browned, 5 to 6 minutes. Turn the fish over and continue cooking for 5 to 6 minutes, until the fish flakes in the middle when prodded with a knife.Using a slotted spoon or a spatula, portion the slaw on 4 individual serving plates (or keep in the serving bowl). Place the cooked salmon fillets on top.Drain off any oil and reheat the pan with the water, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, ginger, and brown sugar, stirring to combine. Simmer over medium-heat high heat for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, until thickened and reduced to 1/3 cup. Carefully pour the glaze over the salmon. Serve with rice or another whole grain.

    Tasty Thai Tacos


    TOTAL TIME:1 hr 45 min
    Prep: 25 min
    Inactive Prep:1 hr
    Cook: 20 min
    YIELD:8 tacos; 4 serving
    LEVEL:--

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup rice vinegar
    • 1 cup water
    • 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
    • Kosher salt
    • 1 jalapeno pepper, julienned (seeded if less heat is desired)
    • 1 large carrot, julienned
    • 1/2 sweet onion, julienned
    • 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
    • 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
    • 4 large fresh basil leaves
    • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
    • 1/4 bunch fresh cilantro, leaves picked (about 1/2 cup loosely packed leaves), plus more for garnish
    • 1 scallion, cleaned and rough chopped
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1/4 cup of olive oil
    • Juice of 1 lime
    • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
    • 1 cup of sushi rice
    • 1 1/4 cups water
    • 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar
    • 1 avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and sliced
    • 1/2 English cucumber, julienned
    • 8 small flour tortillas

    Directions

    In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the rice vinegar, water, brown sugar, and 3/4 tablespoon salt and bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Combine the jalapeno, carrot, and sweet onion in a bowl. Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The pickled vegetables can be made a day ahead.

    Place the cleaned shrimp in a bowl and set aside. Place the Thai curry paste, basil, ginger, cilantro, scallion, sugar, olive oil, lime juice, and fish sauce in a food processor and grind until they make a fine puree.

    Next pour the marinade over the shrimp and combine until all of the shrimp are coated. Place the marinated shrimp in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

    Meanwhile, rinse the rice under running water until the water runs clear. Place the rice, 1/2 teaspoon salt and water in a rice cooker and follow the manufacturers' cooking procedure, about 15 to 20 minutes. When the rice is finished cooking, add the seasoned rice vinegar and stir allowing the rice to absorb the liquid. Cover and set aside.

    In a dry, hot skillet, toast the tortillas for 20 to 30 seconds on each side and wrap them in a towel to keep them hot.

    Using the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and sear the shrimp on one side and turn over to cook the shrimp through. Do not over crowd the pan, cook in batches if necessary. Remove from the heat.

    To assemble the tacos, use one tortilla, add about 2 tablespoons rice, then 3 to 4 shrimp. Top with pickled veggies, julienned cucumber and finish with some sliced avocado and chopped cilantro leaves.

    Cook's Note: This dish uses several layers of unique flavors to build a powerful taco experience. It blends Thai and Mexican ingredients to bring harmony in your mouth. The marinade can be used on shrimp, beef, chicken, or pork.

    Thai-Style Halibut with Coconut-Curry Broth


    TOTAL TIME: 27 min
    Prep: 10 min
    Inactive Prep:--
    Cook: 17 min
    YIELD:4 servings
    LEVEL:Easy

    Ingredients

    • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
    • 4 shallots, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)
    • 2 1/2 teaspoons red curry paste*, or 2 teaspoons curry powder
    • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
    • 1/2 cup light coconut milk
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus 1/4 teaspoon, plus more for seasoning
    • 4 (6-ounce) pieces halibut fillet, skin removed
    • Steamed spinach**
    • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
    • 2 scallions, green part only, thinly sliced
    • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
    • Freshly ground black pepper
    • 2 cups cooked brown rice, for serving

    Directions

    *Available in the Asian section of most supermarkets
    **Steam or microwave 5 cups of washed baby spinach for 2 minutes

    In a large saute pan, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the curry paste and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the chicken broth, coconut milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt and simmer until reduced to 2 cups, about 5 minutes.

    Season the halibut with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Arrange the fish in the pan and gently shake the pan so the fish is coated with the sauce. Cover and cook until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 7 minutes.

    Arrange a pile of steamed spinach in the bottom of 4 soup plates. Top with the fish fillets. Stir the cilantro, scallions, and lime juice into the sauce and season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Ladle the sauce over the fish and serve with rice.

    Duck Fat Fries with Rosemary and Parm with Greek Yogurt Aioli


    TOTAL TIME: 32 min
    Prep: 15 min
    Inactive Prep: 10 min
    Cook: 7 min
    YIELD:4 appetizer servings or 2 side servings
    LEVEL:Easy

    Ingredients

    • Duck Fat Fries
    • 3 to 4 quarts duck fat
    • 1 russet potato, cut into 1/4-inch sticks
    • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
    • 4 sprigs rosemary, leaves removed (reserve woody stems for kebabs)
    • 1 cup freshly grated fresh Parmesan cheese
    • Sea salt
    • Greek yogurt Aioli
    • 1 cup Greek yogurt
    • Zest and juice of 2 lemons
    • 3 heads roasted garlic, cloves removed*
    • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
    • *Cook's Note: For roasted garlic, cover in foil and roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour at 325 degrees F

    Directions

    For the fries:

    Heat the duck fat to 300 degrees F.
    Run the cut potatoes under colder water to remove excess starch. This will help to make the fries extra crunchy. Be sure to thoroughly dry the potatoes before adding to the hot fat. Slowly add and let blanch for about 4 to 5 minutes, until tender. Place onto a paper towel-lined plate and set aside to cool to room temperature.
    Meanwhile, turn the heat up of the fat up to 360 degrees F.
     
    For the Greek yogurt:

    To a small bowl, add 1 cup Greek yogurt, lemon zest and juice, roasted garlic cloves and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper and stir.
    Once the oil is heated, add the fries and cook for another 2 minutes. This will create a creamy inside and crunchy outside. With about 1 minute to go, add the rosemary and sliced garlic to the fries. Cook until everything is golden brown. Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.
    Plate a couple spoonfuls of the Greek yogurt onto the plate. Place the fries onto the plate in a big mound. Season with sea salt.

    Milanese Lamb Blade Chops with Tzatziki and Radish Salad


    TOTAL TIME: 34 min
    Prep: 30 min
    Inactive Prep:--
    Cook: 4 min
    YIELD:4 servings
    LEVEL:Intermediate

    Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 eggs, whisked
  • 4 cups panko bread crumbs
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 heaping cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 blade lamb chops
  • Blended oil
  •  
    TZATZIKI:
    • 1/2 English cucumber
    • 2 cloves garlic, smashed and minced
    • Kosher salt
    • 2 cups Greek yogurt
    • Juice of 1 lemon
    • Freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 small bunch mint, leaves picked and chiffonade (about 1 cup)
     
    RADISH SALAD:
    • 1 shallot, minced
    • Kosher salt
    • 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
    • 8 sprigs fresh oregano, leaves picked and sliced
    • 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 bunches radishes with greens
    • 1 English cucumber

    Directions

    Place each of the flour, eggs, and panko bread crumbs into shallow dishes. Season the flour and eggs with salt and pepper. Add the Parmesan to the panko bread crumbs and stir to combine. Remove the bones from the blade chop. Cut into equal-size medallions and remove any unwanted fat or sinew. Cover the medallions in plastic wrap and pound out with the smooth side of the mallet to about 1/4 to 1/2-inch thickness. Dredge just before ready to cook and serve.

    Cook's Note: Save the bones for stock

    For the tzatziki:

    Grate the cucumber over a wire mesh strainer placed over a bowl. Add the garlic and salt. Set aside to drain for 15 minutes.

    To another bowl, combine 2 cups Greek yogurt, juice of 1 lemon, freshly ground black pepper, pinch salt, and mint. Set aside.

    For the radish salad:

    To another bowl, add the shallot and season with salt. Add the red wine vinegar, oregano, and whisk in about 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil. Taste and re-season, if needed.

    Remove the greens from 1 bunch radishes (about 8) and wash the greens in salted iced water. Place into a salad spinner to dry. Set aside. Thinly slice the radishes and add to the dressing. Halve the remaining cucumber lengthwise. Thinly slice only half of the cucumber into half-moons.

    Place a cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add about 1/4-inch blended oil. Season the lamb and dredge in the flour, eggs, and then the bread crumbs. When all are dredged, add to the heated oil. Allow to cook on both sides or until golden brown, or medium-well, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

    Squeeze out the excess moisture of the cucumbers and add to the Greek yogurt mixture. Stir to combine. Set aside.

    Tear and then add the dry radish greens to the vinaigrette and toss to combine. Set aside.

    Place a spoonful of the tzatziki sauce on the plate. Top with the lamb Milanese and the radish salad.

    Greek Chicken Burgers


    TOTAL TIME: 20 min
    Prep: 10 min
    Inactive Prep:--
    Cook: 10 min
    YIELD:4 servings
    LEVEL:Easy

    Ingredients

    • Four 6-inch pita pockets
    • 1 pound ground chicken
    • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
    • 3/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, chopped
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 large egg
    • 6 ounces low-fat plain yogurt
    • 4 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced
    • 3 plum tomatoes, sliced

    Directions

    Cut off a third of each pita and set the pita pockets aside.

    Grate the small pita pieces on the fine side of grater, or pulse in food processor, to make 1/2 cup breadcrumbs.

    In a large bowl, mix the crumbs, chicken, feta, 1/4 cup mint, salt, pepper and egg until just combined. Shape the mixture into 8 small 3/4-inch-thick burgers.

    Heat a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the burgers and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes.

    Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the yogurt and remaining 1/2 cup mint. To serve, fill each pita with some lettuce, tomatoes, 2 burgers and some yogurt sauce.

    Make it a Drop 5 Meal by adding: 1/2 cup frozen sweet potato fries, baked. 500 complete meal calories.

    Greek Caponata


    TOTAL TIME:1 hr 5 min
    Prep: 10 min
    Inactive Prep:--
    Cook: 55 min
    YIELD:4 to 6 servings
    LEVEL:Easy

    Ingredients

    • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with their juice
    • 2 zucchini, cut into 1-inch rounds
    • 2 summer squash, cut into 1-inch rounds
    • 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
    • 1 large Japanese eggplant, cut into 1-inch rounds
    • 1 red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
    • 1 potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
    • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 4 to 6 slices toasted sourdough bread, optional for main dish

    Directions

    Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

    Pour the canned tomatoes into a 3 1/2-quart baking dish and spread to cover the bottom. In a large bowl combine the remaining ingredients (excluding the bread). Toss to coat. Pour the vegetables over the canned tomatoes in an even layer. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until the edges of the vegetables are golden, about 30 to 40 minutes.

    Serve alone as a side, or over toasted sourdough bread for a main dish.

    Stuffed Whole Fish-Greek Style


    TOTAL TIME:1 hr 5 min
    Prep: 10 min
    Inactive Prep: 25 min
    Cook: 30 min
    YIELD:4 servings.
    LEVEL:Easy

    Ingredients

    • a2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved, (recommended Sun Gold)
    • 1/4 cup olive oil, or more as needed
    • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon minced fresh hot chile, like jalapeno, or more to taste
    • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano, or 1 teaspoon dried
    • 4 cloves garlic, sliced, or more to taste
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 large whole fish or 2 smaller ones (2 to 3 pounds total), like striped bass, rockfish or trout; preferably butter-flied and boned, or simply gutted
    • 1 lemon, sliced
    • 4 to 6 sprigs fresh thyme

    Directions

    Heat oven to 450 degrees F or prepare grill; heat should be medium-high and rack about 4 inches from fire. Combine tomatoes, 2 tablespoons olive oil, vinegar, chile, oregano, a few slices of garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a large bowl; let sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes.

    Meanwhile, using a sharp knife, make three or four diagonal, parallel slashes on each side of fish, just about down to the bone. Sprinkle inside of fish with salt and pepper, then stuff with remaining garlic, a layer of lemon slices and thyme sprigs. Rub outside of fish with remaining 2 tablespoons oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

    To roast, put fish in roasting pan and cook for about 20 minutes (cooking time will depend on fish size). If grilling, cook until firm enough to turn, 5 to 8 minutes. Turn and cook second side for 5 to 8 minutes. Whether roasting or grilling, fish is done when exterior is crisp and a thin-bladed knife passes easily through the flesh.

    Taste tomato mixture and adjust seasoning, adding more oil if needed. Serve fish topped with tomatoes and their liquid.

    Chile Braised Lamb Tacos


    TOTAL TIME:3 hr 30 min
     
    Prep: 30 min
     
    Inactive Prep: 15 min
     
    Cook:2 hr 45 min
     
    YIELD:4 servings
     
    LEVEL:Easy

    Ingredients

    BRAISED LAMB:
    • 3 dried ancho chiles, halved, stems removed
    • 2 dried chiles de arbol, halved, stems removed
    • 2 cups boiling water
    • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon cumin seed
    • 1 teaspoon oregano
    • Kosher salt and cracked black pepper
    • 2 bone-in lamb shanks (about 3 1/2 pounds)
    • 4 cups chicken stock
    PICKLED PEPPERS:
    • 1/3 cup lime juice
    • 1/3 cup sugar
    • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
    • 2 chiles, seeded and cut into rings
    TOMATILLO GUACAMOLE:
    • 3/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, coarsely chopped
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 4 to 6 tomatillos, husked and coarsely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, smashed and quartered
    • 1 ripe avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and diced
    • 1/2 medium onion, coarsely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
    • 1/2 jalapeno, coarsely chopped with seeds
    • Juice of 1 lime
    • 12 white corn tortillas
    • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
    • 4 medium radishes, thinly sliced
    • 1/2 cup queso fresco, crumbled (1 1/2 ounces)
    • Lime wedges, for serving

    Directions

    For the braised lamb: Heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Toast the chiles skin-side up until fragrant and beginning to darken, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer to a bowl and pour enough boiling water to cover and soak until softened, about 15 minutes. Strain, reserving the water.

    Transfer the chiles to a blender or food processor along with 1/2 cup of the reserved steeping water, the cider vinegar, cumin, oregano and garlic. Process until a smooth paste forms. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

    Place the lamb in a Dutch oven and slather the chile paste over the shanks. Add the chicken stock. Bring the liquid to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer, cover with the lid and braise until the lamb is tender, about 2 hours 30 minutes.

    For the pickled peppers: Meanwhile, bring the lime juice, sugar and vinegar to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes. Put the chiles in a separate bowl and pour the vinegar mixture over. Let cool for about 20 minutes. Discard the liquid before using.

    For the guacamole: Combine the cilantro, cumin, salt, tomatillos, garlic, avocado, onions, jalapenos and lime juice in a food processor or blender and pulse until combined and still somewhat chunky.

    For assembly: When cool enough to handle, remove the lamb from the braising liquid and shred. Once the lamb is removed, bring the braising liquid back to a boil and cook until it reduces to about 2 cups of liquid, 10 to 12 minutes. Return the shredded lamb back to the braising liquid in the Dutch oven.

    Toast the tortillas, if desired, over an open flame just until slightly charred. Fill each tortilla with some of the shredded lamb, guacamole, cilantro, radishes and pickled peppers and top with queso fresco. Repeat until all the tacos are assembled. Serve with lime wedges.

    Argentinean Hot Corn with Chimichurri Butter


    TOTAL TIME:1 hr 16 min
     
    Prep: 10 min
     
    Inactive Prep:1 hr
     
    Cook: 6 min
     
    YIELD:6 servings
     
    LEVEL:Easy

    ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • Salt
  • 6 ears corn, husked
  • Grated Cotija cheese, for serving, optional
  • Lime wedges, for serving, optional
  •  

    Directions

    Place the vinegar, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, garlic and red pepper flakes in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Transfer the mixture to a piece of cheesecloth or a kitchen towel and wring out the excess liquid. Place the mixture in a small bowl and stir in the butter.Transfer the chimichurri butter to a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until it has hardened.Meanwhile, bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corn and boil until it is tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and transfer to a serving platter. Place a disk of chimichurri butter on each ear of corn and serve sprinkled with Cotija cheese and a lime wedge on the side.

    Parrillada Argentina with Red and Green Chimichurri Sauces

    
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    TOTAL TIME:13 hr 30 min
     
    Prep:1 hr
     
    Inactive Prep:12 hr
     
    Cook: 30 min
     
    YIELD:4 to 6 servings
     
    LEVEL:Difficult

    Ingredients

    SEASONING OIL:
    • 2 cups vegetable oil
    • 1 cup fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
    • 1 tablespoon Spanish paprika
    • 1 bunch fresh Italian parsley leaves, finely chopped
    GREEN CHIMICHURRI:
    • 6 bunches fresh Italian parsley, cleaned and dried
    • 1 tablespoon sea salt
    • 1/2 cup olive oil
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 1/4 cup red vinegar
    • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
    • 1/4 cup white vinegar
    • 12 cloves fresh garlic, peeled
    • 1/8 tablespoon cumin
    • 1/8 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
    • 1/8 tablespoon red pepper flakes
    • 1/8 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
    RED CHIMICHURRI:
    • 6 bunches fresh Italian parsley, cleaned and dried
    • 1 tablespoon sea salt
    • 1/2 cup olive oil
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 1/4 cup red vinegar
    • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
    • 1/4 cup white vinegar
    • 12 cloves fresh garlic, peeled
    • 1/2 cup Spanish paprika
    • 1/8 tablespoon cayenne pepper
    • 1/8 tablespoon cumin
    • 1/8 tablespoon red pepper flakes
    • 1/8 tablespoon fresh oregano
    • 1/8 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
    CITRUS VINAIGRETTE:
    • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
    • 1/8 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 egg yolk
    • 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    MEAT AND VEGETABLES:
    • 10 ounces grass-fed hanger steak
    • 10 ounces grass-fed skirt steak
    • 5 bone-in grass-fed short ribs
    • 1 Argentine pork sausage
    • 1 Argentine blood sausage
    • 1 lobe veal sweetbreads
    • Sea salt
    • 1 vine-ripe tomato
    • Chopped fresh oregano
    • 2 green hot peppers
    • 8 asparagus stalks

    Directions

    For the seasoning oil: Mix the oil, oregano, cumin, paprika and parsley in a bowl. Refrigerate for half of a day.For the green chimichurri: In a food processor add a third of the parsley, roughly chopped. Dissolve the sea salt into 1/2 cup of water and set aside. Add the olive oil, vegetable oil, red vinegar, rice vinegar, white vinegar and the garlic. Add half of the salt water solution, and start mixing for 3 to 5 minutes. Add in the cumin, oregano, pepper flakes and black pepper. Then add the remaining parsley in 2 batches and mix for 3 to 5 minutes for each batch. Add more of the salt water solution if necessary.For the red chimichurri: In a food processor add a third of the parsley, roughly chopped. Dissolve the sea salt into 1/2 cup of water and set aside. Add the olive oil, vegetable oil, red vinegar, rice vinegar, white vinegar and the garlic. Add half of the salt water solution, and start mixing for 3 to 5 minutes. Add the cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin, pepper flakes, oregano and black pepper, and mix for 6 minutes. Then add the remaining parsley in 2 batches and mix for 3 to 5 minutes for each batch. Add more of the salt water solution if necessary.For the citrus vinaigrette: In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, mustard, salt, pepper and egg yolk with a whisk. Add the olive oil while mixing gently, until emulsified. Add water, up to 1/4 cup, as needed.For the meat and vegetables: Heat the grill to very high heat, 410 degrees F. Reserve one section of the grill separate from the vegetables, and heat to medium heat, 250 degrees F.Sparingly brush the prepared seasoning oil on all sides of the hanger steak, skirt steak, short ribs, pork sausage and blood sausage. Place the meat on the grill at a diagonal angle, and sprinkle the tops of all cuts with sea salt. Turn the meats only diagonally when you see a deep grill mark and the meat is sizzling. Sprinkle the other side of the meat with sea salt and cook the meat until medium rare. For the sweetbreads, cut the lobe in the middle and leave it uncut on one side so it hinges. Coat it in the seasoning oil and sea salt and grill it first on the cut side. Then close it and grill both opposite sides until golden and crisp.Cut the tomato in half and make a cross with a sharp knife in the center of the pulp. Coat with the seasoning oil, and pour a small tablespoon of the oil in the center of the core. Season with salt and add some oregano. Place on the grill, cut-side up. Cook until soft with char around the edges and bottom. Coat the green peppers with the seasoning oil and char them until soft and well done.Cut the white bottoms off of the asparagus, and peel them half way up the stalk. Blanch them in salted hot water for 3 minutes in a small pot, and then place them in a medium bowl of ice water. Dry them and coat in the seasoning oil, and sprinkle them with salt. Place them on the grill over medium heat until they are nicely marked on both sides.Plate the meat, sausages, tomatoes, peppers and asparagus on a traditional wooden Argentine plate, sprinkle with sea salt and serve with the chimichurri sauces and the vinaigrette.

    Notes

    We suggest caution in consuming raw and lightly-cooked eggs due to the risk of Salmonella or other food-borne illness. To reduce this risk, we recommend you use only fresh, properly-refrigerated, clean, grade A or AA eggs with intact shells, and avoid contact between the yolks or whites and the shell. For recipes that call for eggs that are raw or undercooked when the dish is served use shell eggs that have been treated to destroy Salmonella, by pasteurization or another approved method.A viewer or guest of the show, who may not be a professional cook, provided this recipe.

    Swedish Turkey Meat Balls


    TOTAL TIME: 50 min
     
    Prep: 15 min
     
    Cook: 35 min

    YIELD:4 to 6 servings as an appetizer
     
    LEVEL:Intermediate

    Ingredients

    FOR THE MEATBALLS:
    • 1/4 to 1/3 cup vegetable oil
    • 1 medium onion, finely food processed
    • 10 ounces challah bread, food processed to crumbs (about 3 1/2 cups)
    • 1 large egg
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
    • 2 teaspoons salt
    • 25 grinds freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 3/4 to 2 pounds ground turkey
    FOR PAN SAUCE:
    • 1 tablespoon butter
    • 10-ounces button mushrooms, sliced
    • 1/3 cup medium-dry sherry
    • 1 cup chicken stock
    • 1/4 cup instant flour (Recommended: Wondra)
    • 1 cup half-and-half
    • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 bay leaves
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
    • 1/4 cup tart berry preserves, such as cherry or cranberry

    Directions

    Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
    Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Saute onions until soft and translucent. Set onions aside to cool and wipe skillet clean.In a large mixing bowl combine the cooled onions with remaining meatball ingredients. Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls.Heat remaining oil in skillet over high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
    Set meatballs aside. Add the butter and mushrooms to the pan and saute until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add the sherry and chicken stock, to deglaze the pan. Sprinkle in the instant flour and cook until sauce thickens. Add the half-and-half, Worcestershire and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, whisking often until thickened. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Remove pan from heat, add meatballs back to the pan. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Discard bay leaves.Serve meatballs with preserves.

    Mexican Broiled Black Sea Bass with Enchilada Sauce, Rice and Refried Beans


    TOTAL TIME:2 hr 50 min
     
    Prep: 20 min
     
    Cook:2 hr 30 min
    YIELD:4 servings
     
    LEVEL:Intermediate

    Ingredients

    • 4 (6-ounce) black sea bass fillets, skinned
    • Salt and pepper
    • 1 cup Enchilada Sauce, recipe follows
    • Refried Beans, recipe follows
    FOR THE MEXICAN RICE:
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1/2 cup chopped white onions
    • 1/4 cup chopped green bell peppers
    • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
    • 2 cups long-grain rice
    • 1 large tomato, peeled, seeded and chopped
    • 3 cups chicken stock, or water
    • 3/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon saffron
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano leaves
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves
    • 1/4 cup chopped green onion tops, green part only
    REFRIED BEANS:
    • 1/2 pound, about 1 1/4 cups dried pinto beans, rinsed and picked over
    • 1 bay leaf
    • 1 yellow onion, halved, 1/2 cut in 2 pieces and the other 1/2 chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed plus 1 teaspoon minced
    • 2 teaspoons salt
    • 3 tablespoons bacon drippings, or olive oil
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
    • Grated cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, for serving
    • Chopped tomatoes, for serving
    • Sour cream, for serving
    • 1/2 pound dried chile huajillo
    • 1/2 pound dried chile pasilla
    • 2 dried chile cascabel
    • 1 or 2 dried chile de arbol
    • 2 gallons water
    • 1 disk Mexican chocolate, cut into 4 pieces
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • 4 garlic cloves
    • 1 small onion, cut into quarters
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 1-ounce vinegar

    Directions

    Set the oven to 450 degrees F and position the rack in the center position.

    Season the fish on both sides with the salt and pepper. Place on an aluminum foil lined sheet pan and pour 1/4 cup of the Enchilada Sauce over each of the fillets. Place in the oven and cook until the sauce is well browned and the fish is cooked through, about, 8 minutes, rotating the pan midway to ensure even cooking. Serve with Refried Beans and Mexican Rice on the side.
    Recipe courtesy Francisco Mojica
    In a medium saucepan, combine the beans, bay leaf, 2 onion quarters, smashed garlic, and enough water to cover by 2 inches, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat so that the water boils gently and cook for 10 minutes. Cover, remove from the heat, and allow the beans to sit for 1 hour.

    After 1 hour, return the beans to a low boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 45 minutes. Add the salt and continue to cook until the beans are very tender, about 15 to 30 minutes longer. Drain the beans in a colander set over a bowl in the sink and reserve the cooking liquid. Discard the bay leaf, onion quarters and garlic.

    In a medium 10-inch skillet, heat the bacon drippings or olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cumin and oregano and cook for 1 minute. Add the beans and 1 cup of the reserved cooking liquid and, using a potato masher, mash the beans until chunky-smooth. Add 3/4 cup more of the reserved cooking liquid and cook, stirring, until the beans are very thick and flavorful, about 10 minutes. Be careful of splatters. If the beans become too thick, simply add more of the reserved liquid cooking liquid. When the beans have reached the desired consistency, stir in the extra-virgin olive oil and serve immediately with cheese, tomatoes and sour cream.

    Yield: about 3 cups
    At night before you go to bed, put all dried chiles in the 2 gallons of water. Keep submerged with a plate.

    The next day, very carefully remove stump and seeds, which can be thrown away. As you do so, put them in a blender. Save 3 or 4 cups of water used to soak the chiles.

    Put the rest of the ingredients in the blender and blend very well. You will need to add water as you go because it is quite thick. Using pulse method might be required. You don't want the sauce to be too thin though or too blended; you want to see the chile skin (which can also be thrown away). Put in colander and slowly filter out skins and whatever didn't blend smoothly, two cups at a time.
    In a medium, heavy saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and bell peppers, and cook, stirring, until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the rice and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the stock, salt and saffron, and stir well. Bring to a boil, lower the heat to low, cover and cook undisturbed until all the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.

    Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes. Uncover, fluff the rice with a fork, and add the oregano, cilantro and green onion. Stir to incorporate.

    Yield: 6 cups