Vegan Pizza Spreads Across US!

Oh so many years ago when we first became vegetarians, in order to get a decent, tasty vegan pizza, you had to make it yourself. While it’s still a wonderful thing to DIY – check out Toni’s amazing Potato Sage Pizza – it’s also nice to know that from Boston to Seattle and in a …

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Summertime and the grillin’ is easy

For us, summer means less time in the kitchen and more time outside in “the big room” – so of course, the less fuss involved in the preparation of meals, the better we like it.  And what could be less fussy (and more delicious) than a stir fry prepared al fresco on the grill?  Utilizing …

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Cashew Cream Spread

1-2 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped 1/3 c. cashew nut butter 2 T. white or red miso Water 2 t. olive oil In a food processor or blender, add the nut butter, miso and garlic. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, the olive oil, and process. The spread should have a smooth consistency similar to …

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How To Re-Hydrate Dry TVP

I just received a question about rehydrating dry TVP (textured vegetable protein). Many stores carry ready to cook TVP in the form of faux “meats” (whether frozen, refrigerated, or canned), but in some areas, these types of products can be difficult to find. In that case, dry TVP may be your only alternative. For people …

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What is Macerating?

Macerating vs. Marinating I just received an email asking what the difference is between marinating and macerating. Macerating is a procedure used in food preparation where raw, dried, or preserved fruits or vegetables are soaked in a seasoned, usually acidic, liquid before cooking. Macerating is often confused with “marination,” and some use the terms interchangeably. …

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Rediscover Lentils

Rediscover Lentils Lentils are one of the most ancient of cultivated crops, and they’re widely consumed throughout Europe, India, and Africa. They are wonderfully all-purpose, low in fat, high in protein and fiber, and unlike other legumes, they cook quickly and require no soaking. They are a terrific meat substitute for vegetarians in a variety …

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Texture Tips

Texture Tips One of the most important elements people seek in food, especially vegetarian food is texture. From the moment we begin eating solid food, texture plays an extremely important role in our diets and our palates. Taste is equally important, but how food “feels” remains an issue for many. Consequently, tofu, beans, and other …

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Where do pine nuts come from?

Where do pine nuts come from? Yesterday I attended a pot luck dinner with some friends. I brought a dish that contained toasted pine nuts and during the course of the evening, it became apparent that not many people knew where pine nuts actually come from. Having grown up in Italy, these nuts were a …

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Take it Easy

Take it Easy I receive many emails with questions about preparing vegetarian meals and recipe ideas. I really believe everyone is good, maybe even great, at preparing something. I’m not a professional chef, have never claimed to be, and truly that’s not something most people strive for. Most of us simply want to eat healthier …

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Roasted Vegetarian Soup Stock

Roasted Vegetarian Soup Stock When I prepare my own vegetable stock, I have lately gotten into the habit of oven roasting the vegetables I’m using until they are nicely caramelized, before adding my water and boiling it on the stovetop. It takes a little more time, but it makes a very rich stock with a …

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