Category Archives: Dairy-Free

Appetizer, Basics, Dairy-Free, Snack, Summer

Guacamole

The only reason to have this is a reminder of the ingredients. Each piece is critical. Maybe the tomato is optional.

Print Recipe

Guacamole

Simple and excellent
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: California, Mexican
Keyword: Basics
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 189kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 small red onion
  • 1 serrano pepper
  • ½ bunch cilantro
  • 2 tomatoes
  • 2 large avocadoes
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Clean, dice and prep the ingredients. Mash everything together. Serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 189kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 594mg | Potassium: 700mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 750IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg
Nutrition Facts
Guacamole
Amount Per Serving
Calories 189 Calories from Fat 135
% Daily Value*
Fat 15g23%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Sodium 594mg26%
Potassium 700mg20%
Carbohydrates 15g5%
Fiber 8g33%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 750IU15%
Vitamin C 26mg32%
Calcium 31mg3%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Dinner Party, Dry Beans, Fall, Favorites, Great Leftovers, Pressure Cooker, Rotation, Spring, Summer, Weekend Dinner, Weeknight Dinner, Winter

Braised Flageolet Beans and Brown Rice

This delicious meal has evolved some over time, especially with the important addition of the brown rice. Brown rice serves several roles here. For one, the brown rice picks up some of the delicious liquid. It also adds its own nutty flavor to the overall dish. And then it helps stretch this meal into a truly delicious 4-6 servings.

Print Recipe

Braised Flageolet Beans and Brown Rice

Little green pods with a firm yet creamy texture
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time2 hours
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: California
Keyword: Dry Beans, Rice
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 767kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Pressure cooker

Ingredients

Braised Beans

  • 0.5 lbs dried Flageolet beans
  • 1 farcelette herb bundle – or bay leaves and other herbs in a spice bag
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large fennel bulb
  • 2 medium leeks
  • 2 large shallots
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 2 tsp vegetable bouillon to make 2 cups broth
  • 1 tsp salt

Herb Gremolata & Serving

  • ½ cup flat leaf parsley
  • ¼ cup tarragon leaves
  • 2 Meyer lemons
  • 1 clove garlic clove
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for drizzling

Brown Rice

  • 2 cups brown Kokuho Rose rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tsp vegetable (or no-chicken) bouillon
  • ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

  • Rinse and soak the beans in water and 1.5% salt for 6-8 hours, preferably all day.
    0.5 lbs dried Flageolet beans
  • When ready to start preparing the meal, cook the beans along with the herb bundle. First bring the beans, herb bundle and at least 1.5 quarts water to a gentle boil for 5 minutes and then lower the heat to a gentle simmer for at least 20 minutes while you chop the vegetables.
    1 farcelette
  • All of the following can go in the same bowl. Remove the fronds from the fennel (save those for other uses) and cut into large wedges. Clean and keep the white and light green parts of the medium leeks; thinly slice once cleaned of dirt. Mince the 3 large cloves garlic. Thinly slice the shallots.
    1 large fennel bulb, 2 medium leeks, 4 cloves garlic, 2 large shallots
  • Remove 2 cups of the cooking bean water and add the bouillon to the hot bean water. Mix well and set aside. Allow the beans to cook gentle while you start the bigger meal. Right before adding, drain off the excess water.
    2 tsp vegetable bouillon
  • Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat in a large Dutch oven. Add the fennel wedges, leeks, shallots and garlic. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the white wine and continue to cook for another minute.
    2 tbsp olive oil, ½ cup dry white wine
  • Add the bouillon mixture, fully drained pre-cooked beans and herb bundle, and about 1 tsp salt. Stir gently so the beans are submerged (and add more hot bean water or stock if necessary). Bring to a simmer, cover and transfer to the oven.
    1 tsp salt
  • Bake the beans and vegetables, covered, for 30-60 minutes, depending on how done the beans are. Remove the lid and cook uncovered until the beans are cooked through and the cooking liquid has reduced slightly, another about 30 minutes.
  • Once you’ve put the beans in the oven, you can make the herb gremolata. In a food processor, add rough-chopped flat leaf parsley, tarragon leaves the zest of both Meyer lemons, and the large garlic clove. Add a tiny bit of Meyer lemon juice if you need to get the mix to blend properly. Set aside in a covered dish until ready to serve.
    ½ cup flat leaf parsley, ¼ cup tarragon leaves, 2 Meyer lemons, 1 clove garlic clove
  • When you have about 45 minutes left, add 2 cups brown rice and 2 cups water with 1 tsp bouillon and ¼ tsp salt to the pressure cooker. Bring to low pressure for 15 minutes and then allow for up to 10 minutes of natural release. Release remaining pressure and fluff the rice and add a touch more salt, if needed.
    2 cups brown Kokuho Rose rice, 1 tsp vegetable (or no-chicken) bouillon, ¼ tsp salt, 2 cups water
  • Once beans are cooked and the dish has dried some, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes away from heat, uncovered.
  • Serve topped with the herb gremolata and some olive oil drizzled on top.
    2 tbsp olive oil

Notes

Serves 4 (approximately)

Nutrition

Calories: 767kcal | Carbohydrates: 127g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 229mg | Potassium: 1825mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1595IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 289mg | Iron: 11mg
Nutrition Facts
Braised Flageolet Beans and Brown Rice
Amount Per Serving
Calories 767 Calories from Fat 153
% Daily Value*
Fat 17g26%
Saturated Fat 3g19%
Sodium 229mg10%
Potassium 1825mg52%
Carbohydrates 127g42%
Fiber 16g67%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 24g48%
Vitamin A 1595IU32%
Vitamin C 26mg32%
Calcium 289mg29%
Iron 11mg61%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Amaranth, Dairy-Free, Dry Beans, Pressure Cooker, Weeknight Dinner

Amaranth and Chickpea Pilaf with Saffron

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Amaranth and Chickpea Pilaf with Saffron

Unique yet simple pilaf
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: California
Keyword: Dry Beans
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 485kcal

Equipment

  • Pressure cooker

Ingredients

Beans

  • ½ lb dry chickpeas
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 piece kombu
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 3 small chilis de arbol

Pilaf

  • 2½ cups boiling water
  • 2 tsp vegetable or no-chicken bouillon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 1 cup amaranth rinsed
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • 1 pinch saffron
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes sliced
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley optional

Instructions

  • Rinse then soak the garbanzos in 1% salinity water for at least 8 hours. Drain and add the beans to a pressure cooker. Cover with water by at least 1" or so. Add bean spices to the pot, in a spice bag if possible. Set timer for 7 minutes and cook on high pressure. Allow for pressure to release naturally for 25 minutes and then release remaining pressure. Drain beans.
    ½ lb dry chickpeas, 2 bay leaves, 1 piece kombu, 1 tsp oregano, 3 small chilis de arbol
  • Once beans are done, turn on the kettle and bring at least 3 cups of water to a boil. Pour 2.5 cups of boiling water in a measuring cup and mix in 2 tsp bouillon. Set aside.
    2½ cups boiling water, 2 tsp vegetable or no-chicken bouillon
  • Heat 2 tbsp oil in the all-in-one pan (or large skillet) over medium-high. Add the diced onion and cook until starting to turn golden.
    2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion
  • Reduce heat to low. Add the amaranth, water and stock, cooked chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, and 1 tsp sweet paprika. Stir well. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until millet is cooked.
    1 cup amaranth, ½ tsp dried basil, 1 pinch saffron, 1 tsp sweet paprika, 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • When done, break up with a fork and season further, if needed. Add the parsley (if using).
    2 tbsp finely chopped parsley

Notes

Serves 4

Nutrition

Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 74g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 51mg | Potassium: 1079mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 1151IU | Vitamin C: 36mg | Calcium: 176mg | Iron: 9mg
Nutrition Facts
Amaranth and Chickpea Pilaf with Saffron
Amount Per Serving
Calories 485 Calories from Fat 126
% Daily Value*
Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Sodium 51mg2%
Potassium 1079mg31%
Carbohydrates 74g25%
Fiber 15g63%
Sugar 11g12%
Protein 19g38%
Vitamin A 1151IU23%
Vitamin C 36mg44%
Calcium 176mg18%
Iron 9mg50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Dry Beans, Fall, Great Leftovers, Quick, Rotation, Spring, Summer, Weeknight Dinner, Winter

Sloppy Sams (Lentil Sloppy Joes)

I’ve edited and refined this several times and it’s now in really great shape. Don’t skimp on the green bell pepper – it adds a sharp, fresh counterpoint to the heavy (and great) tomato and umami flavor. Delicious and great for a few days in the fridge.

For dinner, this should be accompanied by a side of vegetables or, if you’re aiming to dive fully into comfort-food, oven fries or other potato product. (And the filling would be great on top.)

Black caviar lentils are great in this because they hold their shape well and provide a great flavor. French green are also great, if you make sure you don’t overcook them by cooking them lower and slower than you would cook black caviars.

Print Recipe

Sloppy Sams (Lentil Sloppy Joes)

Quick meatless comfort-food meal
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Keyword: Dry Beans, Lentils
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 649kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 buns

Lentils

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup black or green lentils

Sauce

  • 1 medium white onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 large green bell pepper or 2 small
  • 1 jalapeño
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 15 oz tomato sauce, passata or marinara
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dry mustard
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Rinse lentils. In a medium saucepan, add the lentils and the 1 cup water and 1 cup vegetable broth. Bring to a low boil and then cook, uncovered, for 18 minutes or until tender. Drain excess liquid when done. (Add more liquid if they aren’t tender and are looking dry, which is unlikely.)
  • While that cooks, peel and trim the onion and cut out the middle third, for rings to top the sandwiches. Take the other two thirds and chop finely, adding to a bowl, along with 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1-2 green bell peppers (chopped) and the jalapeno (finely chopped).
  • Heat butter and olive oil (2 tbsp total) in a skillet on medium-high. Add the onions and peppers and cook until they are fragrant and starting to brown. Then, add the tomato sauce or passata, the 1 tsp sugar, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dry mustard and 1 tsp oregano. Add salt to taste.
  • When the lentils are done (and drained), add them to the mix and continue cooking over medium-low heat until cooked through and fairly thick. Taste and adjust flavoring as needed.
  • Serve on toasted buns with rings of white onion.

Nutrition

Calories: 649kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 151mg | Sodium: 1880mg | Potassium: 644mg | Fiber: 14g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 2494IU | Vitamin C: 51mg | Calcium: 155mg | Iron: 9mg
Nutrition Facts
Sloppy Sams (Lentil Sloppy Joes)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 649 Calories from Fat 243
% Daily Value*
Fat 27g42%
Saturated Fat 13g81%
Trans Fat 1g
Cholesterol 151mg50%
Sodium 1880mg82%
Potassium 644mg18%
Carbohydrates 80g27%
Fiber 14g58%
Sugar 9g10%
Protein 25g50%
Vitamin A 2494IU50%
Vitamin C 51mg62%
Calcium 155mg16%
Iron 9mg50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Dry Beans, Fall, Great Leftovers, Quick, Spring, Summer, Weeknight Dinner, Winter

Slow Cooker Taco Salad

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Slow Cooker Taco Salad

Easy to make and produces excellent leftovers
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time8 hours
Total Time8 hours 30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: California, Comfort Food, Mexican
Keyword: Dry Beans
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 518kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Ingredients

Beans

  • ½ lb black beans
  • ½ can chipotle peppers in adobo
  • ½ red onion
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 bunch cilantro stems and leaves separated and chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Toppings

  • 2 red onions
  • 2 avocadoes cubed and spritzed with lime juice
  • 2 bell peppers
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 2 cups corn chips
  • 8 oz sour cream
  • 16 oz cheddar cheese
  • 4 tomatoes chopped
  • 1 jalapeno thinly sliced
  • 8 oz salsa

Instructions

  • Mince the small red onion, the cilantro stems, and garlic cloves. Mix the spices and salt. In the Instant Pot on sauté, add a bit of oil and the red onion, cilantro stems and garlic. Once fragrant and cooked, add the tomato paste, the juice from half of the can of chipotle and then chop half the peppers and add to the pot as well. (Save the other half for another use.) Add the spice mix. Rinse the ½ lb beans and add to the pot, along with 1 quart water. Stir well. Turn to medium for 6-8 hours. Adjust temperature if needed.
  • Prepare the toppings before you’re ready to serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 518kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Sodium: 1110mg | Potassium: 899mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 5313IU | Vitamin C: 59mg | Calcium: 514mg | Iron: 3mg
Nutrition Facts
Slow Cooker Taco Salad
Amount Per Serving
Calories 518 Calories from Fat 324
% Daily Value*
Fat 36g55%
Saturated Fat 17g106%
Trans Fat 1g
Cholesterol 74mg25%
Sodium 1110mg48%
Potassium 899mg26%
Carbohydrates 33g11%
Fiber 11g46%
Sugar 8g9%
Protein 21g42%
Vitamin A 5313IU106%
Vitamin C 59mg72%
Calcium 514mg51%
Iron 3mg17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Dinner Party, Dry Beans, Favorites, Great Leftovers, Projects, Weekend Dinner, Weeknight Dinner, Winter

Habichuelas Guisadas (Puerto Rican Stewed Beans)

Is this technically a chowder, because it contains potatoes? The Internet told me once that a chowder is a soup with potatoes. The Internet lies.

So, no, it’s not a chowder. It’s just delicious.

Print Recipe

Habichuelas Guisadas

Puerto Rican Stewed Beans
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 30 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Keyword: Dry Beans
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 399kcal

Equipment

  • Pressure cooker
  • Dutch oven

Ingredients

Beans

  • 1 lb dry beans red, pink or pinto beans
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 medium shallot
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp peppercorns
  • 1 stalk celery

Stew

  • 1 cup sofrito
  • 2 large carrots diced
  • 1 large red bell pepper diced
  • 2-4 tomatoes depending on size
  • 2 tbsp sazón
  • 1 lb red potatoes or other waxy potatoes, diced into large chunks
  • 10 large green olives

Serving

Instructions

  • First, the beans. Rinse and soak the beans in 1% salinity water for at least 6 hours. Add the beans and their soaking water to a large pot. To a spice bag, add 2 peeled garlic cloves, 1 shallot, 2 bay leaves, some coriander seeds, peppercorns, and a roughly chopped stalk of celery. Bring to a hearty boil for 10 minutes, and then cook for 30 minutes, maybe less depending on how fresh the beans are. When the beans are done (they can be just-cooked), drain but save the cooking liquid.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the ingredients. Make the sofrito (if you do not already have some on-hand). Dice the carrots, bell pepper and tomatoes. Peel the potatoes and cut into fairly good-sized chunks. Drain the olives.
  • In a large Dutch oven, heat a few tbsp of oil over medium heat. Add the sofrito, the carrots, bell pepper, tomatoes and 2 tbsp sazon. Cook for a few minutes to activate everything and start to soften the hard parts. Add the beans, potatoes and 1-2 cups of the bean water. If under-seasoned (besides salt), you can add some concentrated broth, bullion cubes, tomato paste, or more sazón. Make sure there is enough liquid for this to stew for a bit.
  • Cook for an hour, removing the cover part of the way through to let the broth thicken.

Notes

For six servings, including the rice

Nutrition

Calories: 399kcal | Carbohydrates: 74g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 401mg | Potassium: 1647mg | Fiber: 23g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 5301IU | Vitamin C: 58mg | Calcium: 151mg | Iron: 6mg
Nutrition Facts
Habichuelas Guisadas
Amount Per Serving
Calories 399 Calories from Fat 36
% Daily Value*
Fat 4g6%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Trans Fat 0.2g
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 1g
Sodium 401mg17%
Potassium 1647mg47%
Carbohydrates 74g25%
Fiber 23g96%
Sugar 5g6%
Protein 21g42%
Vitamin A 5301IU106%
Vitamin C 58mg70%
Calcium 151mg15%
Iron 6mg33%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Favorites, Side

Puerto Rican White Rice

Arroz blanco maybe? Not sure what it is called traditionally, but the oil here makes this special.

Print Recipe

Puerto Rican White Rice

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 241kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Calrose rice
  • 1.5 cups water
  • 2 tbsp oil maybe a bit less
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  • Rinse the 1 cup rice. Bring a bit less than 2 tbsp oil, 1.5 cups water, and ½ tsp salt to a boil over high heat. Add the rice, allow to just gently boil, and cook until the water has just about cooked out (it will not be cooked). Stir, reduce heat to medium-low and cover and cook, checking and stirring every 4-5 minutes, until it is cooked (15-25 minutes).

Nutrition

Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 296mg | Potassium: 38mg | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 2mg
Nutrition Facts
Puerto Rican White Rice
Amount Per Serving
Calories 241 Calories from Fat 63
% Daily Value*
Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Trans Fat 1g
Sodium 296mg13%
Potassium 38mg1%
Carbohydrates 40g13%
Fiber 1g4%
Protein 3g6%
Calcium 4mg0%
Iron 2mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Dry Beans, Fall, Great Leftovers, Pressure Cooker, Rotation, Spring, Summer, Weeknight Dinner, Winter

Sage Pasta and Chickpeas

This meal, of unknown origin, is a great way to use chickpeas with things I typically have in the pantry, except the fresh sage. It’s delicious warm or cold. Don’t forget the capers!

Print Recipe

Sage Pasta and Chickpeas

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: California
Keyword: Dry Beans
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 566kcal

Equipment

  • Pressure cooker

Ingredients

Beans

  • 1.5 cups garbanzo beans
  • Bean spices, including bay leaves, garlic, peppercorns, oregano

Pasta

  • 8 oz dry pasta farfalle or other small shape
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion chopped
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 sprigs sage about 3 tbsp chopped
  • 2 tsp capers minced
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

Beans

  • Rinse then soak the garbanzos in 1% salinity water for at least 8 hours. Drain and add the beans to a pressure cooker. Cover with water by at least 1" or so. Add bean spices to the pot, in a spice bag if possible. Set timer for 10 minutes and cook on high pressure. Allow for pressure to release naturally for 25-30 minutes and then release remaining pressure. Drain beans.

Pasta

  • When the beans are nearly done, boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Prepare the other ingredients.
  • Once the beans are done, in a large, wide skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and chopped sage and fry for 20 seconds. Pour into a heat-safe bowl and set aside.
  • In the same skill over medium heat, fry the onion in 1 tbsp olive oil until golden, stirring frequently. Season with the salt, plenty of freshly ground pepper and the pepper flakes.
  • Turn heat to low. Add the drained chickpeas and mix well. Add the cooked pasta to the chickpeas and onions. Then add the capers. Stir well and turn off the heat.
  • Serve topped with the sage and garlic oil.

Nutrition

Calories: 566kcal | Carbohydrates: 92g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 641mg | Potassium: 859mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 201IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 108mg | Iron: 6mg
Nutrition Facts
Sage Pasta and Chickpeas
Amount Per Serving
Calories 566 Calories from Fat 117
% Daily Value*
Fat 13g20%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Sodium 641mg28%
Potassium 859mg25%
Carbohydrates 92g31%
Fiber 16g67%
Sugar 11g12%
Protein 23g46%
Vitamin A 201IU4%
Vitamin C 7mg8%
Calcium 108mg11%
Iron 6mg33%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Dry Beans, Great Leftovers, Weekend Dinner, Weeknight Dinner

Lentil and Tomato Stew

I made this for the Greek Lentil Pie, but it makes way more than is necessary for that recipe and it saves extremely well.

A few recommended ways to eat this as a meal:

  • Pearl couscous
  • Crusty bread
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Bed of arugula, or a side salad
Print Recipe

Lentil and Tomato Stew

Excellent and simple lentil stew
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Keyword: Dry Beans
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 223kcal

Equipment

  • Food mill (if using fresh tomatoes)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb black caviar lentils
  • 1 onion peeled and halved
  • 4 cloves garlic peeled and left whole
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 sprigs thyme
  • Parmesan rind optional
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes or 2 lbs fresh tomatoes
  • ¼ tsp sugar
  • 4 sprigs fresh basil

Serving

  • 3 oz Parmesan freshly grated
  • Bread, couscous, pasta or rice

Instructions

  • If you're using fresh tomatoes, first you should roughly chop and clean the 2 lbs tomatoes and place in a bowl with a bit of salt. Add two sprigs basil. Mix well and set aside.
    If you're using canned tomatoes, open the can and add to a very large bowl. Crush with your hands. Add two sprigs basil and set aside.
    1 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes, 4 sprigs fresh basil
  • Rinse and pick over the lentils. To a large sauce pot, add 6 cups water and the lentils. To a spice bag, add the 2 halves onion, 2 cloves peeled garlic, bay leaf, thyme and parmesan rind (if using) and add to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Add ½ tsp salt, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-25 minutes, until the lentils are cooked through but still have some texture (they should not be mushy). Taste and adjust salt. Carefully remove spice bag. Set aside.
    1 lb black caviar lentils, 1 onion, 4 cloves garlic, 1 bay leaf, 2 sprigs thyme, Parmesan rind
  • Make the tomato sauce. Mince 2 cloves garlic. Add 1-2 tbsp olive oil to a large skillet or sauce pan. Heat over medium, add the garlic and stir until it is fragrant but not yet turning brown, about 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and basil and stir well. Add the ¼ tsp sugar. Turn heat to medium high so the tomatoes come to a brisk simmer. Turn the heat down to low and cook, stirring occassionally, until the tomatoes have cooked down to a thick, fragrant sauce, about 20 minutes. Remove the basil sprigs when done.
    ¼ tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt
  • While that cooks, sliver the remaining fresh basil, or enough to make 2-4 tbsp.
  • If you're using fresh tomatoes, once the tomatoes have cooked down, pass through a food mill. Then, add the tomato sauce to the lentils, and simmer gently for 10 minutes, until the mixture is fairly thick, more like a stew than a soup. Add pepper and salt to taste. Stir in the slivered basil.
  • If serving immediately, serve in wide bowls with couscous, bread, pasta or even rice. Top with freshly grated Parmesan.
    3 oz Parmesan, Bread, couscous, pasta or rice

Notes

Nutrition information for 8 servings; excludes the bread, couscous, pasta and rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 223kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 465mg | Potassium: 41mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 152IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 169mg | Iron: 5mg
Nutrition Facts
Lentil and Tomato Stew
Amount Per Serving
Calories 223 Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Cholesterol 7mg2%
Sodium 465mg20%
Potassium 41mg1%
Carbohydrates 31g10%
Fiber 12g50%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 18g36%
Vitamin A 152IU3%
Vitamin C 4mg5%
Calcium 169mg17%
Iron 5mg28%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Dairy-Free, Quick, Rice, Rotation, Spring, Tofu, Weeknight Dinner

Spicy Tofu Fried Rice with Spring Vegetables

This is a relatively quick and delicious dinner with lots of flexibility depending on available produce.

Print Recipe

Spicy Tofu Fried Rice with Spring Vegetables

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: California, Chinese
Keyword: Rice, Tofu
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 704kcal

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup jasmine rice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 10 oz firm tofu preferably Hodo Soy
  • ½ cup snap peas
  • 4 small scallions
  • ¾ lb asparagus or broccoli or broccolini
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 inch fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp tamari
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp sriracha
  • ½ tbsp sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil

Instructions

  • Rinse rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Add to a small saucepan along with 1¼ cups water and ½ teaspoon salt and bring to a boil. Cover and cook over low until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 17 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and spread out on a rimmed baking sheet to cool.
    ¾ cup jasmine rice, ½ tsp salt
  • If you have a small package of tofu (like Hodo Soy), you just need to pat dry before you cut. If you have a regular size package of tofu stored in water, drain the tofu, cut in half crosswise (saving the second half), and try to get the water out by patting dry and pressing a bit on top of a clean kitchen towel. Cut the tofu into ½-inch cubes.
  • Prepare ingredients. Bowl 1: Most of the thinly sliced scallions (save some for garnish) and the cleaned and prepped snap peas (or substitute). Bowl 2: Peel and finely chop the 3 cloves garlic and the 1” piece fresh ginger (making at least 1 tbsp each). Trim bottoms from asparagus, then cut spears into ½-inch pieces, saving the tops for larger spears so they don’t break apart too much.
  • In a small glass or bowl, combine 1 tbsp tamari, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp sriracha, 3 tablespoons water, and ½ tbsp sugar.
    10 oz firm tofu
  • Beat 2 eggs in a small bowl. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add eggs and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softly scrambled, about 1 minute. Transfer to a plate. Wipe out skillet.
    ½ cup snap peas
  • Heat 1 tablespoon oil in same skillet until shimmering. Add tofu cubes and ½ teaspoon salt; cook over medium-high, stirring once or twice, until lightly browned, 5-6 minutes. Add asparagus, ginger and garlic to skillet and cook, stirring until asparagus is crisp-tender, about 2 minutes.
  • Add rice, peas, and most of the scallions (save rest for garnish) and cook, stirring to combine. Stir sauce, add to skillet, and cook, stirring occasionally, until rice is coated, about 4 minutes. Stir in scrambled eggs and cook until heated through, about 1 minute. Spoon tofu fried rice onto plates and garnish with remaining scallions.

Notes

Serves 3

Nutrition

Calories: 704kcal | Carbohydrates: 74g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 186mg | Sodium: 1343mg | Potassium: 630mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1933IU | Vitamin C: 33mg | Calcium: 295mg | Iron: 8mg
Nutrition Facts
Spicy Tofu Fried Rice with Spring Vegetables
Amount Per Serving
Calories 704 Calories from Fat 297
% Daily Value*
Fat 33g51%
Saturated Fat 5g31%
Trans Fat 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 12g
Monounsaturated Fat 15g
Cholesterol 186mg62%
Sodium 1343mg58%
Potassium 630mg18%
Carbohydrates 74g25%
Fiber 7g29%
Sugar 8g9%
Protein 30g60%
Vitamin A 1933IU39%
Vitamin C 33mg40%
Calcium 295mg30%
Iron 8mg44%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.