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Recipe #182

 

Ma Po Doufu Sauteed Bean Curd, Family-Style

3 tablespoons oil
4 pieces tofu, 3”x3”
3 ounces ground pork or beef
1 teaspoon fresh chopped ginger
1 tablespoon fresh copped garlic
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ cup soup stock
1 tablespoon corn starch
1 tablespoon chopped scallions

Heat 2 tablespoonsoil on medium.  Add bean curd.  Lightly sautee bean curd until golden brown.  Remove from pan. Add 1 tablespoon oil to pan.  Add meat, ginger, garlic and hot sauce.  Cook, stiring, for 2 minutes, until it smells really nice. Return bean curd to pot.  Add soup stock.  Cover and simmer for 2 minutes. Add salt, sugar and cornstarch paste. Place on platter.  Sprinkle with chopped scallions. Serve with rice.


Compliments Acadiana Soy,  Halifax Farmers Market

 

 

 

Recipe #181

Hummus Ayurvedic variation of the traditional Lebanese recipe

(Enough for a party - serves 8)

1)  Soak 1 cup of Chana/Chickpeas/Garbanzos overnight and drain
2)  Cook chickpeas in twice the volume of fresh water with one stick of  sea Kelp until well done (pressure cook 30 minutes, or regular stovetop about 1 hour)
3)  Drain, reserving some of the cooking liquid
4)  Put in blender:
Cooked chickpeas
1/4 cup water from chickpeas
1-2 Tbsp Braggs or Tamari (soy sauce)
1/4 tsp. Black pepper
1/4 cup Lemon juice
2½ Tbsp.Tahini (sesame paste) A pinch of Hing/Asafoetida (a good substitute for the traditional garlic: it aids digestion and is less Rajasic)

Mash or blend to a medium or fine texture, according to your preference. Garnish with ½ cup chopped fresh mint leaves, or toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice and veggies
OR:  Serve cold with raw veggies and your favorite flat bread as a dip.

Compliments Ayurveda Technician, Yvonne Macor ns@srisriayurveda.ca

 

 

 

Recipe #180

 

Ma Po Doufu Sauteed Bean Curd, Family-Style

3 tablespoons oil
4 pieces tofu, 3”x3”
3 ounces ground pork or beef
1 teaspoon fresh chopped ginger
1 tablespoon fresh copped garlic
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ cup soup stock
1 tablespoon corn starch
1 tablespoon chopped scallions

Heat 2 tablespoonsoil on medium.  Add bean curd.  Lightly sautee bean curd until golden brown.  Remove from pan. Add 1 tablespoon oil to pan.  Add meat, ginger, garlic and hot sauce.  Cook, stiring, for 2 minutes, until it smells really nice. Return bean curd to pot.  Add soup stock.  Cover and simmer for 2 minutes.
Add salt, sugar and cornstarch paste. Place on platter.  Sprinkle with chopped scallions. Serve with rice.

Compliments Acadiana Soy,  Halifax Farmers Market

 

 

 

Recipe #179

THAI TOFU SALAD

¾ cup Basmati brown rice

1 ½ cups water

1 tablespoon oil of your choice

½ pound firm tofu, rinsed, drained and diced

1 cup diced English cucumber

1 sweet red pepper, diced

1 green onion, sliced

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce)

¼ teaspoon hot chilli sauce or hot pepper sauce

2 tablespoons each fresh mint and coriander

 

In saucepan bring rice and water to boil.  Reduce heat to low and  simmer until rice is tender and water is absorbed (follow  instructions on package).  Scrape into large bowl. Meanwhile, in a non-stick skillet heat oil over medium high heat and  brown tofu, turning with a spatula for about 8 minutes or until  golden brown and crispy.  Remove to paper towel lined plate; let stand. Add cucumber, red pepper and green onion to rice in bowl.  Add  browned tofu and stir to combine. In small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish/soy sauce, and chili  sauce.  Drizzle over top of salad and toss gently to combine.  Add  mint and coriander and toss again to combine well.

 

Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market.=


 

 

Recipe #178

ORANGE CASHEW FUDGIES

More and more people are switching to a gluten-free diet.  Heartwood  offers many gluten-free options and best of all we have several  gluten-free desserts.  Here is a recipe for a new dessert that we  just developed.  It is our answer to a chocolate brownie.  Whether  you can eat gluten or not, these are a delicious treat to enjoy at  any time.  

 

Dry ingredients

4 cups brown rice flour

1/3 cup organic cocoa

½ tsp sea salt

½  cup chopped cashews

 

Wet ingredients

1 cup maple syrup

½ cup rice syrup

1 cup safflower oil

3 tbsp cashew butter

1 tsp vanilla

Grated rind of ½ orange  

 

Mix the dry ingredients with the wet.  You should have a cookie  dough consistency.  Press mixture into a 9+11 oiled baking pan.   Smooth mixture until it is spread evenly in the pan.  Bake at 350 for  20-25 minutes or until the fudgies feel dry and slightly firm.   Remove from over and let cool.

 

Topping

1/3 cup organic cocoa

½ grated orange rind

1 tsp. safflower oil

Maple syrup.

 

Mix in enough maple syrup to make a smooth icing mixture.  Spread  over cooled squares and serve.  Enjoy. 

 

Compliments of Heartwood  Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd.

 

 

 

Recipe #177

 

ROASTED RED PEPPER DIP (Summer Red Pepper Dip)

 

1 package vegan or regular cream cheese

4 large red bell pepper, cleaned and quartered

1 medium onion, diced small

3 cloves garlic

3 Tbsp fresh cilantro

2 tsp cumin powder

3 Tbsp lemon juice

2 Tbsp oil

Salt and pepper   

 

Toss peppers in a bowl with oil and a little salt and pepper.  Put  on a baking sheet and bake in a moderate oven for 15 to 18 minutes,  until soft.  Keep your eye on them, near the end. Put in a food processor with all the other ingredients (except the  cream cheese) and puree. Add the cream cheese and process only a few seconds (too long and the  dip will become runny).  Enjoy with nachos or pita.

 

Compliments  Satisfaction-Feast, 3559 Robie Street.

 

 

 

Recipe #176


Baked Tofu in Tomato Sauce with Cheese

 

It's a simple supper, quick to make, and is low in calories.

 

1 pound firm tofu, sliced into 6 slices

1-2 cups spaghetti sauce (home-made or store bought, no fat, no sugar)

12 tablespoons shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese

 

Method: Preheat oven to 350 deg F. Lay the tofu slices in a single layer in a baking dish with a cover.   Pour over spaghetti sauce and spread with a spoon to cover the tofu  slices. Cover the baking dish and put in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.  Take the baking pan out of the oven and sprinkle cheese on top. Return the uncovered baking dish to oven for 5 more minutes to melt  the cheese. Serve with baked potato and baked squash and steamed  broccoli or roasted vegetables (to make best use of the oven).Serves 3. For a little spicier meal, you can substitute salsa for the spaghetti  sauce.

Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market



Recipe #175

Roasted Tomato and Fennel Soup

12 tomatoes, cut in half

1 fennel bulb, sliced in lengthwise strips

3 Tbsp cooking oil

1 white onion, chopped in chunks

1 large carrot, chopped in chunks

1 clove garlic, chopped

4 cups water

½ bunch fresh basil

2 Tbsp sugar

1 Tbsp rice vinegar

Salt & pepper to taste

3 Tbsp olive oil

 

Place tomatoes and fennel on separate baking trays.  Roast in oven  until golden brown on tops.  The tomatoes may take 15 to 20 minutes,  they take longer than the fennel. Saute the onion, carrot, roasted tomatoes and fennel in oil for a few  minutes.  Add the chopped garlic for 1 minute.  Add the water.  Puree  in a blender.  Add the seasonings.  Blend.  Add more water if you  wish.  Lastly, add the olive oil.  Bon Appetit!

 

Compliments of Satisfaction-Feast, 3559 Robie Street, Halifax


 

 

Recipe #174

Rich Lemon Sesame Dressing

This dressing is rich and cheesy tasting yet is completely vegan.   You can use this dressing on salads of any kind, but it is also  delicious on steamed greens, baked or steamed potatoes, or it can  even be used as a sauce to dip bread in.  In short, it is delicious  on almost anything that you can think of.  Full of all the B  vitamins, this dressing is as nutritious as it is delicious.  Enjoy.

 

Method: Place the following ingredients in a blender and process  until smooth.  This makes about 3 cups of dressing.  This keeps well  in the refrigerator for several weeks.

¾ cup nutritional yeast flakes (available in health food stores)

2 TBSP tahini 1 tsp toasted sesame oil 1-2 cloves garlic

1-2” peeled and sliced ginger

1 ½ TBSP tamari

1 tsp. sea salt

1 Lemon juiced

1 cup cold pressed olive oil

¾-1 cup water Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd

 

Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd., Halifax

 

 

Recipe #173


Grilled Rosemary, Tofu and Veggie Paninis

 

(Serves 6)

Even if you don’t own a panini grill, you can still make these delicious fried sandwiches.

Marinade:

 

3 tablespoons raspberry balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons water

1 small shallot, minced

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced

1 teaspoon sea salt

 

Sandwich Ingredients:

16 ounces firm tofu

1 medium zucchini

1 large red bell pepper

3 slices swiss cheese or alternate

½ cup fresh spinach leaf

6 slices crusty bread or 3 good rolls

 

Combine all marinade ingredients in plastic ziplock bag.  Cut tofu into six slices.  Add tofu to the marinade and refrigerate overnight.

About 1 hour prior to dinner time, add sliced zucchini and sliced red pepper to marinade.

Add a bit of water if necessary to coat.

Preheat grill.

Grill tofu, zucchini, bell pepper until softened and well marked on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Assemble sandwiches by dividing the tofu and veggies among the 6 rolls or breads.

Grill for about 2 minutes.  If you don’t own a panini grill, use a frying pan, turn after 2 minutes and grill the other side for 2 minutes.

Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market



Recipe #172

Golden Vegetable Soup

1 medium cabbage chopped

1 cauliflower in florets

3 carrots, cut in ½ moons

½ large onion, chopped

1 cup frozen peas (optional)

2 potatoes in cubes

¼ cup olive oil

1 Tbsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

½ bunch parsley, chopped

Some fresh dill if you have it

 

1. Bring to boil 8 cups water.  Add cabbage and onion and bring to boil.

2. Add carrots and bring to boil.

3. Add cauliflower and bring to boil

4. Add potatoes, salt and pepper.  Cook until soft.

5. Blend ½ of the soup with 1 diced carrot.  Add back to soup.

6. Add green peas if using.  Bring to boil.

7. Add olive oil and parsley.  Add more water if needed.

 

Compliments of Satisfaction-Feast, 3559 Robie Street, Halifax


 

 

 

Recipe #171

Lentil Walnut Casserole

This recipe is reminiscent of the comforting “meat loaf” that most of us were served while growing up. Served with steamed greens and roasted potatoes or rice, it makes a cold wintery day “okay!”  Hearty and delicious, I hope you will enjoy this dish.

 

6 cups cooked and drained green lentils

1 cup ground walnuts

1 ½ cups whole grain bread crumbs

1-2 onions diced

½ cup diced carrots

½ leek diced

1 tsp basil, oregano, thyme

1-2 tsp sea salt

1-2 cloves garlic, minced

1-2 tbsp tamari

olive oil for sautéing

 2 cups seasoned tomato sauce

 

Saute diced vegetables and herbs with a sprinkle of sea salt in 1-2 tbsp olive oil.  When soft add the cooked lentils and ground walnuts.  Stir and cook on low for 3-4 minutes.  Season with garlic, sea salt and tamari.  Taste and adjust if necessary.  Place lentil mix in a large casserole dish and top with tomato sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350.  Serve with steamed greens and roasted potatoes for a perfect winter meal.

 

Heartwood Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd., Halifax

 

 

Recipe #170

INDONESIAN RICE SALAD

2 cups cooked brown rice
1/2 cup raisins
3 chopped green onions
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds
1/2 cup toasted almonds or cashews
1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts
1 1/2cups bean sprouts
1 chopped green pepper
1 chopped red pepper
1 to 2 stalks celery

Dressing:
3/4 cup orange juice
1/2 cup oil
juice and finely chopped peel of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
4 Tbsp tamari
Combine rice, raisins, seeds, nuts and veggies.Whisk remaining ingredients well and pour over the mixture and stirto coat. Chill several hours or overnight. Serves 6.
Compliments of Satisfaction-Feast, 3559 Robie Street, Halifax


Recipe #169

 

SOUTHERN "FRIED" TOFU

These can be eaten warm or cold, as part of a sandwich, cut up in a salad or stir-fry, or simply by itself.  They’re easy to make and can be kept in the refrigerator for 5 days.

Cut into 1/4 inch slices:
2 lb firm tofu
Combine to make a marinade:
1 cups water
1/4 cup wheat-free soy sauce
1 tsp powdered sage
1/2 tsp each rosemary, thyme, granulated onion
3 tbsp nutritional yeast

 

Marinate the tofu slices for a few days (in refrigerator), turning the slices or spooning over the marinade from time to time, or store in a tightly covered container, and shake from time to time. Preheat oven to 400 deg F.

 

Combine as a coating mixture:
2 cups spelt flour
1/4 cup nutritional yeast 1 tsp salt
1 tsp onion powder. Pepper to taste.

 

Coat the tofu slices in the coating mixture. Lay the slices in single layers, not touching, on 2 lightly oiled, dark-coloured cookie sheets (tofu won’t brown properly on shiny aluminum sheets). Bake until the bottoms are golden, about 15 minutes.  Turn the pieces over and bake until the other sides are golden, about 15 minutes more. Cool on racks and refrigerate.
Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market

 

Recipe #168


THREE BEEN SALAD WITH A SWEET GINGER DRESSING

  This recipe is a showcase for all those wonderful green, yellow, pole, purple, beans or whatever type of fresh bean you can find. Sweet and gingery, they are a great way to enjoy the food of summertime.  Easy to prepare and easy to eat!  Make as much or as little as you like and dress it as needed.

 

6 cups assorted fresh beans, washed, trimmed and sliced into 1” pieces
1-2 green onions
1/2 cup diced red and green pepper
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional or replace with parsley)
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

 

Blanch the beans in boiling water for 1-2 minutes.  Rinse under cold water and drain until needed.  Place in a large mixing bowl with the rest of the vegetables.

 

Dressing
2/3 cup organic apple cider or juice
1-2 cloves garlic
1-1 1/2 “peeled and sliced ginger
1/2 tsp sea salt or 1 tsp tamari
2 tbsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil

 

Place ingredients in a blender and process until smooth.  Dress the salad and adjust salt if needed.  Serve and enjoy.
Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 1650 Quinpool Road.

 

Recipe #167

Fresh Dilled Spinach Tarts

This is a great way to use some of the amazing fresh spinach that shows up at the market at this time of year.  I have been making this filling for years and it is still a family favourite.  It can be used to make spanakopita with filo pastry, instead of tarts.  Any leftover filling is also very tasty in a sandwich.  However you choose to use it, there won’t be leftovers!  Enjoy.

 

Tart shells
1 3/4 cups light spelt flour (or whole wheat pastry flour)

1/2 cup unrefined safflower oil
1/4 tsp. sea salt     

1/3 + 2 Tbsp. water

 

Place flour and salt in a bowl.  Using a fork, mix the oil and water together then add it to the flour, making sure not to over-mix the dough.  Sprinkle flour over a pastry sheet or wax paper and roll out your dough into a large circle.  Cut 3-4” circles (size depends on the size of your muffin tins), lift carefully onto a flattened muffin paper and slip gently into your muffin tin.  By  using all the pastry, (even the leftover circle parts), you should have between 12-18 small shells.

 

Spinach filling
1 1/2 lbs fresh spinach
1 medium onion diced finely
1/2 pkg medium to firm tofu
1/3 cup crumbled feta (opt.)
3/4 cup fresh chopped dill
Olive oil to sauté   

Sea salt to taste

 

Place the rinsed spinach in a medium saucepan with about 1 1/2” water.  Bring to a boil to blanch the spinach.  Pour into a colander and drain while preparing the rest of the filling.  Chop finely before using. Saute the diced onion in olive oil and a bit of salt.  When the onion is soft add the tofu and continue to cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring once or twice.  Add the remaining ingredients and the chopped spinach.  Stir well and season with salt. Drain before using. Spoon a generous amount of filling into the tart shells.  Bake at 350 for 18-20 minutes or until both the filling and the tart shell feel firm to the touch.  Serve warm or cold. 

Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 1650 Quinpool Rd.

 

 

Recipe #166

Tofu Smoothie

Fruit and silken tofu make a thick, creamy and nutritious drink.  You can use either fresh or frozen fruit.  Whip it up in the morning and pour it into a thermos.  Shake it up and enjoy.


1 cup silken tofu
1 medium banana
2/3 cup soymilk or orange juice (optional)
1 cup frozen blueberries (or other frozen fruit, such as mango…)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
2-3 ice cubes (optional)

 

Drain silken tofu to remove excess water and add to blender. Peel and slice banana and add to blender. Blend the tofu, banana and soymilk/orange juice for 30 seconds. Add 1/2 cup of the blueberries and process until smooth.  Add the remaining blueberries, honey and ice cubes and process again until smooth.
Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market

 

 

Recipe #165

Baby Spinach Salad

For 1 serving of salad:

2 handfuls of baby spinach
1 slice red onion or 1/2 Tbsp chopped scallions
Briefly soaked dried fruit like raisins or cranberries or chopped
fresh fruit like strawberries, apples or oranges
1 – 2 Tbsp roasted almond or soaked pumpkin seeds
1 – 2 Tbsp crumbled goat or feta cheese
1/4 - 1/3 cup salad dressing

 

Salad dressing:
1 bunch cilantro or parsley
1 stalk celery, chopped
Juice of 1 lime and 1 orange
2 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
3 Tbsp olive oil or 4 slices cucumber
1/2 tsp salt or 1 Tbsp dulse flakes
1 clove garlic (optional)
1 scallion (optional)
2 Tbsp dill (optional)

 

Blend dressing ingredients in a blender.  Add more water or olive oil if desired.  Mix spinach and onions with 1/4 cup dressing and top with other ingredients.  Sprinkle with cheese.
Compliments of Satisfaction-Feast, 3559 Robie Street, Halifax

 

 

Recipe #164

TOFU LASAGNE

9 lasagne noodles

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, diced

3 carrots, thinly sliced

1 700 ml jar pasta sauce

1 cup water

2 zucchini, thinly sliced

375 grams  (3/4 lb) Acadiana Soy herbed tofu, coarsely grated

 

Cook lasagne noodles according to package directions.  Drain and rinse under cold running water. Drain and set aside.

In large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.  Cook onions and carrots until soft, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in sauce and add water.  Bring to a boil.

Stir in zucchini.  Reduce heat to simmer.  Cover and cook until zucchini starts to soften but is not falling apart, about 10 minutes.  Remove from heat.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.  Cover the bottom of a 13 by 9 inch glass baking dish with 1 cup sauce.  Place 3 noodles across the bottom of dish.  Spread with one third of sauce and half of tofu.  Repeat layers once.  Place last three layers on top and cover with remaining sauce.  Cover dish tightly with foil.

Bake in centre of oven for 40-45 minutes or until heated through.  Remove foil; let stand 5 minutes before cutting. Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market

 

 

 

Recipe #163

BROCCOLI GINGER NOODLES

 

8 cups water

1 pound broccoli, cut into 1” pieces

12 ozs Asian noodles

½ cup vegetable broth

3 Tablespoons tamari

2 Tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)

1 Tablespoon vegetable oil

4 medium garlic cloves, minced

3 Tablespoons minced fresh ginger root

¼ cup diced green onions (green part only)

Bring water to poil in a large pot.  Add broccoli and cook until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.  Use slotted spoon to transfer broccoli to a bowl.  Add noodles to the boiling water and cook for 3 – 6 minutes.  Drain and rinse under cold water.

Combine broth, tamari and mirin in s small bowl and set aside.  Heat oils in a non-stick frypan.  When hot, add garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, 15 – 20 seconds.  Add broccoli and cook until warmed through, about 2 minutes.

Add noodles, sauce and green onions and stir-fry until noodles are warmed through, about 1 minute.  Serve immediately. Serves 4. Compliments Satisfaction-Feast, 3559 Robie Street, Halifax.

 

 

Recipe #162

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE MINTY HEARTS

It’s the middle of winter and time to celebrate with good old fashioned comfort food.  This cookie is just the treat to celebrate Valentines Day or to enjoy after a long frosty walk in the snow.  This recipe should make about 2 dozen large cookies.

 

Dry ingredients

4 ½ cups light spelt flour

3/8 cup organic cocoa

½ cup walnuts chopped coarsely

1 cup chocolate chips

½ tsp. sea salt

1 ½ tsp. baking powder

Mix together in a large mixing bowl

Wet ingredients

1 1/8 cups maple syrup

1 cup safflower oil

1 ½ tsp. peppermint extract

1 tsp. vanilla

Mix well and add to the dry ingredients.  This mix should be fairly stiff when completely mixed.  Use an ice cream scoop to spoon onto an oiled or parchment lined baking sheet. Press into a 2-1/2” circle. (or use a heart shape cookie shape).  Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes or until cookies feel dry and crispy.  Cool and enjoy. 

Compliments of Heartwood Café, 6250 Quinpool Rd.,  Halifax

 

 

Recipe #161

Green Lentil Pate

This pate has been in the back of my mind for a long time.  Finally, one day it was time to bring it to life.  This savoury, rich pate is great in a sandwich, with crackers, on a veggie platter, or as a dip.  The key to the richness in this recipe is toasted sunflower seeds.  This is a staff and family pick – just in time for the Holidays!

2 cups cooked green lentils
1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
2 tbsp. olive oil 2 tbsp. tamari
1/4 cup roasted yams
2 tbsp. chopped parsley
1 tbsp. chopped garlic
1 tbsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. freshly grated ginger
pinch of sea salt
splash of toasted sesame oil

Puree above ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Chill and serve with a garnish of parsley.
Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd., Halifax

 

Recipe #160

Thai Mushroom and Bean Curd Soup

In a pot:
3 strips dried tofu
2 cups dried mushrooms
Boiling water

Soak until soft, about 15 minutes, then cut into chunky pieces. Transfer tofu, mushrooms and water back to the pot, add more water and bring to a boil until soft. Add:
100g fresh mushrooms, sliced and wither a daikon, peeled and sliced thinly on a diagonal or cabbage, shredded. Simmer until soft.

Add:
1/4 cup Thai soy sauce or Maggi seasoning (or add more to taste)
1/2 Tbsp salt
2 tomatoes, chopped (optional)

Boil about 2 minutes. Add:
1 block silken tofu, cubed
Handful of vermicellie, softened in hot water and drained
1 Tbsp crushed garlic, which has been fried in a little oil
Compliments of Satisfaction-Feast Restaurant 3559 Robie Street, one block north of Lady Hammond Road.

 

Recipe #159

Risotto Verde

Preheat oven to 325 F. Have ready:
2 cups cooked rice
Blanch in a microwave and save liquid:
2 cups chopped spinach

Blend until smooth and creamy:
1/2 lb tofu
2 tbsp oil
2 tbsp spinach juice
1 1/2 tsp salt

Saute:
1 tbsp oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Remove from heat and fold in:
the cooked rice
1/4 tsp pepper
1/8 tsp nutmeg
the chopped, blanched spinach
the blended tofu mixture

Bake in an oiled 1 1/2 quart baking dish for 30 minutes.
Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market

 

Recipe #158

Double Trouble Organic Chocolate Cake

Heartwood has finally made the transition from a buffet style to a sit down service.  It has been a wonderfully inspiring opportunity to create new desserts.  This cake was created to celebrate my son’s birthday, but was enjoyed so much I have decided to make it a restaurant item.  Rich, delicious, and just perfect for chocolate lovers, this recipe makes a double layered 10” cake.

Dry ingredients
4 cups light spelt flour
3 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp sea salt
2 1/2  TBSP Inka (coffee substitute )
2/3 cup organic cocoa
Mix well.

Wet ingredients
1/3 cup firm tofu
2 cups maple syrup
2/3 cup cashew butter
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups safflower oil
1 cup organic apple juice
Blend above ingredients in a food processor until smooth.  Pour into dry ingredients and mix gently until smooth.  Pour into two 9 or 10” oiled round cake pans.  Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until center is firm.  Cool before serving.

Topping
1/3 cup organic cocoa
2 tsp cashew butter
1/4 tsp vanilla
3-4 TBSP maple syrup
1/4 cup chopped almonds
Mix above ingredients except the almonds in a food processor until smooth.

Filling
1/2 cup organic apricot jam
To assemble: Place one cake upside down on a large plate.  Spread the top with the apricot jam.  Place the other cake on top of the first cake, right side up.  Spread the cocoa topping over the top layer.  Sprinkle chopped almonds around the outside edge of the top of the cake. Serve and enjoy.
Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd., Halifax.

 

Recipe #157

Simply Baked Tofu Slices

This is my favorite quick supper idea. It comes in handy when there’s a crowd unexpectedly staying for supper. I put this in the oven and bake it while I’m preparing the vegetables and salad.

Ingredients
Fairly firm tofu, one quarter pound per person, or more for second helpings or leftovers (good cold the next day)
Soy sauce, or equivalent
Chinese 5 spice powder, or a combination of onion, garlic, ginger, or any marinating sauce you want

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Have ready a cookie sheet or any flat, low sided pan. Slice tofu in one quarter to one half inch slices. Lay flat on baking sheets. Mix together the marinating sauce you want to use and pour it over the tofu slices in the pan. Make sure the sauce just covers the bottom of the pan. Turn the tofu slices once in order to make sure all the tofu has been washed over by the sauce. Put the baking pans in the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. You can turn the slices once after 15 minutes if you want but if you are busy preparing vegetables or salad you can just ignore it. It may stick a little to the pan but can be removed with a metal spatula.
Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market.

 

 


 

Recipe #156

Thai Coconut Lime and Chilli Dressing for Thai Salads & Steamed Veggies and Noodles

2 cup coconut cream
4 Tbsp light soy sauce (shoyu)
3/4 cup fresh lime or lemon juice
2 tsp salt 1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
4 Tbsp sugar
4 hot red/green chillies

Remove stalk and roughly cut into three/four 4 Tbsp sweet chilli sauce 8 sprigs fresh kaffir lime leaves, remove middle hard ridge from leaves, or use dried leaves.
Compliments of Satisfaction-Feast Restaurant, as of end of September, 3559 Robie Street, one block north of Lady Hammond Road.

Recipe #155

Scrumptious Sesame Roasted New Potatoes

These roasted potatoes are truly delicious. Crunchy on the outside and soft and yummy on the inside! Leftovers (if you have them) are also great tossed with a bit of lemon juice and chopped green onion. Look for these on our new menu coming soon to Heartwood!

8 cups washed and chopped organic new potatoes (about 1 1/2" pieces)

3 tbsp tamari (a natural soy sauce)

3 tbsp olive oil

3 tbsp brown sesame seeds

Place everything in a large mixing bowl and toss well. Place on a nonstick baking sheet or line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roast the potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve immediately and enjoy. Serves 6–8 people.

Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd., Halifax.

 

Recipe #154

Tofu Shish Kebab with Lemon-Soy Marinade

The tofu and vegetables absorb the tangy marinade, making the kebabs extra-succulent and moist.

1/2 cup Peanut or vegetable oil

3 table spoons fresh lemon juice

4 1/2tablespoons Tamari or

low-sodium soy sauce

2 1/2 tablespoons Sesame oil

3 Cloves garlic; minced

1 Green onion; thinly sliced

1 1/2 teaspoons Ground ginger

1 pound Extra-firm or firm tofu, cut into 3/4" cubes and patted dry

16 Ripe cherry tomatoes

1 large Green bell pepper, cored and cut into 1" squares,1/2 large

red onion, cut vertically into thirds and chunks

12 White button mushrooms

Soak wooden skewers in enough water to cover at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Marinade:

Combine all ingredients in jar with a screw-on top and shake vigorously. Set aside.

Vegetables and Tofu:

In a medium bowl, combine tofu and one third of marinade, toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate up to 8 hours, stirring occasionally.In large bowl, combine tomatoes, pepper, onion and mushrooms. Pour over remaining marinade, toss well and refrigerate for up to 8 hours, stirring occasionally.

Alternately thread tofu and vegetables onto skewers.

Grill over hot coals or broil on baking sheet, 6 inches from heat source, about 15 minutes, turning skewers every 5 minutes.

Brush with leftover marinade a few times while cooking and again just before serving.

Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market.

 

Recipe #153

Indian Falafels (vegan, gluten-free)

Grate in food processor 1 lb. potatoes. Sprinkle with 3 Tbsp. salt.

After 15 minutes squeeze out all the excess liquid from the potatoes.

Add: 1/4 C sesame seeds, 1 tsp. each turmeric & paprika,

2 tsp. hing,

1 Tbsp rice flour,

2 tsp freshly ground black pepper,2 Tbsp. salt.

Mix well with your hands. Shape into balls and then flatten them slightly.

Heat oil for deep frying. When hot, drop in the falafel balls one at a time and fry till they float to the surface and turn brown.

Compliments of Satisfaction-Feast Restaurant, 1581 Grafton St., Halifax.

 

Recipe #152

Sweet and Sour Curry Dip

1-250 gram piece of soft tofu
1/4 cup canola oil
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup mustard
1 tablespoon curry powder
1.5 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Combine all ingredients in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth. Chill and serve. Great with veggies and chips! Also good as a coating for baked fish.
Compliments of Acadiana Soy, Halifax Farmers Market

 


Recipe #151

Fresh Pasta and Asparagus with a Rich Miso-Tahini Sauce

Heartwood is evolving to a new way of serving food. We are about to start and “order and serve” system. We will still have our old favourites but we are very excited about adding some new menu selections. We will be able to offer fresh organic pasta made in PEI from the Old World Pasta & Milling Company. Every variety that we have sampled has been amazing so here is a recipe you can try using whatever type of their fresh pasta you prefer. This recipe is enough for two servings of fresh pasta.

Miso Tahini Sauce
3 tbsp. organic tahini
2 tbsp. organic brown rice or barley miso
1 tsp toasted sesame oil 1 tbsp. lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 “ fresh ginger, grated
1/2-3/4 cup water (depending how thick your tahini is)

Place above ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Place in a small saucepan and heat gently. This mixture should not boil. Stir often until almost boiling. Remove from heat and set aside. Pasta and Asparagus 1 serving of organic pasta 3/4 cup cleaned asparagus, cut into 2” pieces Fresh dill and sliced green onion for garnish Bring a pot of water to a boil. Put asparagus into the boiling water and cook for 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside while cooking pasta. Add the fresh pasta to the boiling water and cook according to directions. These pastas only take 1-2 minutes to cook. Drain and place pasta in a serving bowl. Add the asparagus and pour the sauce over the pasta. Add the dill and green onion, serve and enjoy.
Compliments of Heartwood Cafe, 6250 Quinpool Rd., Halifax.


 

 

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