Food bites

Stir fried Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan)

Try this simple recipe of stir fried Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan) as a side dish to your meals to get your necessary greens. Ready in minutes. Easy print recipe. Gai Lan, also known as Chinese broccoli, is in the same species as broccoli, but the two vegetables are different in looks and taste. You may commonly see Gai Lan on many a dim sum table in Chinatowns around the world. This leafy green is popular in many Asian countries, and can be steamed, stir fried, and boiled. Stir fried Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan) 1 lb. Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan)4 cloves…

Seafood rice recipe

This seafood rice recipe is inspired by the delectable flavors of Spanish paella and the vibrant colors of Dominican locrio. One of my favorite rice dishes is seafood paella. Originated in Valencia, paella has a specific cooking method and distinct ingredients such as the priced saffron and olive oil. So, not all seafood rice can be called paella. Bija, or ground annatto seed is used in this recipe to add color to the rice. Included in this recipe is baby octopus. This video will show you how to properly clean it before cooking. An optional ingredient in this recipe is…

(Gai Lan) Chinese broccoli stir fry recipe

This Chinese broccoli stir fry recipe includes oyster mushrooms and red pepper, mixed with ground pork, in a simple sauce of ginger and garlic. Gai Lan, also known as Chinese broccoli, is in the same species as broccoli, but the two vegetables are different in looks and taste. You may commonly see Gai Lan on many a dim sum table in Chinatowns around the world. This leafy green is popular in many Asian countries, and can be steamed, stir fried, and boiled. Two sweet kumatos have been added to this recipe to produce a saucier stir fry that is as…

Pan fried steak with onions (biztec encebollado)

Biztec encebollado, or steak with onions is a quick and easy recipe. The thinly cut steak cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with your favorite grain or salad. Many of my Dominican-style recipes can be seasoned quickly with a home-made "season all." Bija or ground annatto seeds will add natural coloring to dishes and help thicken meat sauces. Pan fried steak with onions (biztec encebollado) 1 1/2 lbs. sandwich steak1 medium white or red onion4 big garlic cloves1 teaspoon of bija (ground annatto seeds)1 teaspoon of salt1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepperOptional: 2 tablespoons of season all1 tablespoon of cooking oil…

Indian-inspired red lentil recipe

This red lentil recipe was inspired by the complex flavors of Indian madras curry and the subtle sweetness of tomato sauce. At 14 grams per 1/4 dry cup, red lentils pack more protein than most legumes, making them a great choice for vegetarians. Red lentils are also an excellent complement to plain rice and make for a nutritious, inexpensive meal. See easy print recipe at the end. This recipe requires a slow cooker. Alternatively, you may cook the lentils on a stove-top for 20-35 minutes on medium heat, using the same ingredients. When cooking beans or lentils, I like to…

Stir fried asparagus with turnip recipe

This stir fried asparagus with turnips recipe includes yellow bell pepper and snow peas, complete with beef. Since asparagus seems to be widely liked as a vegetable, let's talk about the turnips in this recipe. Turnips are a delicious root. They are common in the produce sections of most supermarkets, though not many people know how to prepare them. They taste great raw, with less bitterness and "kick" than a radish. Slice your turnips and add them to salads for crunchy bites high in vitamin C. An interesting tid bit: people who carry a certain gene that is sensitive to…

Braised chicken gizzards recipe: a treat for adventurous palates!

This braised chicken gizzards recipe includes cumin, ground annatto seeds or bija, and a blend of onions, garlic and herbs. A delicious treat for the adventurous palate. Easy print recipe included at the end. Dominican cuisine includes an array of foods considered unusual in certain countries: chicken feet, pig ear, cow's tongue, guts. It is the uncommon textures that makes them an interesting eating experience. Growing up near the countryside in the Dominican Republic, my mom often needed to cook a whole chicken to feed our big family. Stoves with ovens were less common, so meats were regularly braised. Back…

Fried eggplant recipe (torrejas de berenjena)

This very simple fried eggplant recipe (a.k.a. torrejas de berenjena) uses an egg wash to achieve a crunchy texture that contrast well with the soft fried eggplant. An old time Dominican recipe and one of my favorites! Fried eggplant recipe 1 big Italian eggplant3 eggs1/2 teaspoon of salt1/4 teaspoon of black pepper1 teaspoon of parsley (oregano or basil flakes (take your pick))1/4 cup frying oil or enough to cover the bottom of your frying pan In a mixing pan, beat the eggs and add the salt, pepper and herbs. Stir.Wash the eggplant and cut it in 1/4 inch thick, round…