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Spicy Empanadas

January 1, 2013 by epicureanvegan

Spicy Empanadas -- Epicurean Vegan

Happy New Year!

We spent our New Year’s Eve with friends and I brought these empanadas. I’ve made similar ones before and I noticed that I had written 5-6 jalapenos for that recipe. Those must have been some pretty mild peppers, because I used one in this recipe and they were plenty zippy! I changed these up a little and they turned out great. I think adding a chipotle-flavored Field Roast sausage link would also be great for the filling. I’m going to have to figure out how to keep them from opening up during the baking process, but it didn’t seem to make a difference in taste—they were gone in minutes!

INGREDIENTS:
Dough:
3 C flour + some for kneading
3 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer + 4 Tbs water
12 Tbs Earth Balance (1-1/2 sticks)
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbs white vinegar
1/3 to 1/2 C water
Filling:
8-oz non-dairy cream cheese
2 Tbs lime juice
1 Tbs almond milk + some for brushing
1 tsp shallot salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 C vegan pepper jack, shredded
1 tsp cumin
1 jalapeno, chopped fine
1/3 C red bell pepper, chopped small
1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped small
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 Tbs olive oil

DIRECTIONS:
To make the dough, combine the egg replacer with the water and process until foamy.

DSC07155

Add the flour, Earth Balance, salt, vinegar, and water. Process until well combine.

DSC07156

Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 3 minutes. Wrap with plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil and garlic in a medium skillet. Add the onions, jalapeno, and bell pepper. Season with cumin and saute 5-7 minutes, then remove from the heat.

DSC07152

Using a mixer, combine the cream cheese, lime juice, almond milk, shallot salt, and garlic powder. Stir in the cilantro, cheese, and pepper mixture.

Spicy Empanadas -- Epicurean Vegan

Preheat oven to 400. Roll out the dough and using a disk, bowl or cup, cut out 4″ circles.

Spicy Empanadas -- Epicurean Vegan

Place about a tablespoon of the filling in the middle of dough circle. Fold over and you can either use a fork to seal the edges closed, or a pastry wheel cutter, then place onto a large baking sheet.

Spicy Empanadas -- Epicurean Vegan

Bake for 15 minutes, then brush the tops with almond milk. Bake another 5-7 minutes, or until the tops brown. Enjoy!

(Makes around 28)

Spicy Empanadas
 
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Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • Dough:
  • 3 C flour + some for kneading
  • 3 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer + 4 Tbs water
  • 12 Tbs Earth Balance (1-1/2 sticks)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 Tbs white vinegar
  • ⅓ to ½ C water
  • Filling:
  • 8-oz non-dairy cream cheese
  • 2 Tbs lime juice
  • 1 Tbs almond milk + some for brushing
  • 1 tsp shallot salt
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ½ C vegan pepper jack, shredded
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 jalapeno, chopped fine
  • ⅓ C red bell pepper, chopped small
  • ½ medium yellow onion, chopped small
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
Directions
  1. To make the dough, combine the egg replacer with the water and process until foamy.
  2. Add the flour, Earth Balance, salt, vinegar, and water. Process until well combine.
  3. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 3 minutes. Wrap with plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil and garlic in a medium skillet. Add the onions, jalapeno, and bell pepper. Season with cumin and saute 5-7 minutes, then remove from the heat.
  5. Using a mixer, combine the cream cheese, lime juice, almond milk, shallot salt, and garlic powder. Stir in the cilantro, cheese, and pepper mixture.
  6. Preheat oven to 400.
  7. Roll out the dough and using a disk, bowl or cup, cut out 4" circles.
  8. Place about a tablespoon of the filling in the middle of dough circle. Fold over and you can either use a fork to seal the edges closed, or a pastry wheel cutter, then place onto a large baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 15 minutes, then brush the tops with almond milk.
  10. Bake another 5-7 minutes, or until the tops brown. Enjoy!
  11. Makes around 28.
3.3.3077

Filed Under: Appetizers Tagged With: cilantro, Earth Balance, easy, empanadas, Mexican, vegan empanadas

Cinnamon-Soaked Wheat Berry Salad

November 25, 2012 by epicureanvegan

Cinnamon-Soaked Wheat Berry Salad -- Epicurean Vegan

I’ve never had anything with wheat berries in it . . . at least I don’t think so. I had bought a bag a while ago for another recipe (that I can’t even remember now) and so when I saw this recipe in Vegetarian Times, I decided to give it a try. Wheat berries refer to the entire kernel, or whole grain form of the wheat. They’re a great source of fiber and are used in breads, pilaf mixes, stir-fry . . . you name it. It usually needs to be soaked for several hours ahead of time, so keep that in mind, otherwise, they’ll take forever to cook! This salad is delicious warm or cold and was great as a side dish for Thanksgiving.

INGREDIENTS:
Salad
1 C wheat berries
1 2″ cinnamon stick
1/4 tsp salt
3 med carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4″ dice
1 heaping cup thinly sliced apricots
1/2 C toasted slivered almonds
6 Tbs chopped cilantro
Dressing
3 Tbs apple cider vinegar
3 Tbs olive oil
1 Tbs lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp maple syrup
1/4 tsp cinnamon

Cinnamon-Soaked Wheat Berry Salad -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
Soak the wheat berries and cinnamon stick in 3 cups of water for 8 hours or overnight. I didn’t have any cinnamon sticks, so I added a dash or two of cinnamon later on. Transfer the wheat berries and water to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. (This is where I added the cinnamon.)

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for an hour. Drain any leftover liquid and remove cinnamon stick. In a small saucepan, blanch the carrots, then drain. Toss the carrots with the wheat berries, apricots, almonds, and cilantro.

For the dressing, blend all of the ingredients until creamy and season with salt and pepper. Stir into the salad, cover, and chill for about an hour. Enjoy!

Cinnamon-Soaked Wheat Berry Salad
 
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I've never had anything with wheat berries in it . . . at least I don't think so. I had bought a bag a while ago for another recipe (that I can't even remember now) and so when I saw this recipe in Vegetarian Times, I decided to give it a try. Wheat berries refer to the entire kernel, or whole grain form of the wheat. They're a great source of fiber and are used in breads, pilaf mixes, stir-fry . . . you name it. It usually needs to be soaked for several hours ahead of time, so keep that in mind, otherwise, they'll take forever to cook! This salad is delicious warm or cold and was great as a side dish for Thanksgiving.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • Salad
  • 1 C wheat berries
  • 1 2" cinnamon stick
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 3 med carrots, peeled and cut into ¼" dice
  • 1 heaping cup thinly sliced apricots
  • ½ C toasted slivered almonds
  • 6 Tbs chopped cilantro
  • Dressing
  • 3 Tbs apple cider vinegar
  • 3 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 Tbs lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
Directions
  1. Soak the wheat berries and cinnamon stick in 3 cups of water for 8 hours or overnight. I didn't have any cinnamon sticks, so I added a dash or two of cinnamon later on. Transfer the wheat berries and water to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. (This is where I added the cinnamon.)
  2. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for an hour. Drain any leftover liquid and remove cinnamon stick.
  3. In a small saucepan, blanch the carrots, then drain. Toss the carrots with the wheat berries, apricots, almonds, and cilantro.
  4. For the dressing, blend all of the ingredients until creamy and season with salt and pepper. Stir into the salad, cover, and chill for about an hour. Enjoy!
3.4.3177

Filed Under: Sides Tagged With: apricots, cilantro, easy, salad, Thanksgiving, vegan Thanksgiving, wheat berries

Lime and Veggie Fajitas

June 12, 2012 by epicureanvegan

Lime and Veggie Fajitas -- Epicurean Vegan

These colorful fajitas are so quick and easy to make. If you’re like me and tired of the same old fajita seasoning packets, I think you’ll love this change up.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil (I used chipotle-flavored)
1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, sliced
2 C mushrooms, sliced
1 large onion, sliced
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
Flour tortillas
Seasoning:
1/2 C lime juice
1 ts black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/8 tsp cumin

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the seasoning ingredients and set aside.

Lime and Veggie Fajitas -- Epicurean Vegan

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onions and cook 5-7 minutes, or until slightly tender.

Lime and Veggie Fajitas -- Epicurean Vegan

Add the bell peppers and cook another 12-15 minutes, or until they are softened.

Lime and Veggie Fajitas -- Epicurean Vegan

Stir in the mushrooms. These will cook fast, about 3-4 minutes.

Lime and Veggie Fajitas -- Epicurean Vegan

Stir in the cilantro and lime juice mixture and combine thoroughly. Cook until the sauce is heated through.

Lime and Veggie Fajitas -- Epicurean Vegan

Scoop onto the tortillas and if you’d like, add some Daiya cheese and/or Tofutti sour cream. Enjoy!

Lime and Veggie Fajitas
 
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Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil (I used chipotle-flavored)
  • 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 C mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Flour tortillas
  • Seasoning:
  • ½ C lime juice
  • 1 ts black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ⅛ tsp cumin
Directions
  1. Combine the seasoning ingredients and set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onions and cook 5-7 minutes, or until slightly tender.
  3. Add the bell peppers and cook another 12-15 minutes, or until they are softened.
  4. Stir in the mushrooms. These will cook fast, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in the cilantro and lime juice mixture and combine thoroughly. Cook until the sauce is heated through.
  6. Scoop onto the tortillas and if you'd like, add some Daiya cheese and/or Tofutti sour cream. Enjoy!
3.4.3177

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: bell peppers, cilantro, fast and easy, lime fajitas, Mexican, mushrooms, onions, veggie fajitas

Chili Stew

March 2, 2012 by epicureanvegan

Chili Stew -- Epicurean VeganThe weather has been a bit cold and windy these days, and last night was no exception. On nights like that, a hearty soup or stew hits the spot. I threw in tons of different things in this chili and I think this one is my favorite version so far. It’s also great to scoop onto tortilla chips. I had three avocados I planned on dicing up to top the chili, but each one was bad! Total bummer. Crash Test Vegetarian used olives and roasted red peppers in her chili recipe, so I owe her a big thanks for the idea!

INGREDIENTS:
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves, garlic
1 Tbs olive oi
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (1/2 C barley is a good sub)
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 28-oz can diced tomatoes, drained
4 C vegetable broth
2 C water
1 6-oz can sliced black olives
1 small can tomato paste
3 jarred roasted red peppers, diced
1/8 C lime juice
2-3 Tbs Ancho chili powder
1-1/2 Tbs cumin
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
4-5 green onion, sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional: Vegan cheddar shreds, diced avocado, vegan sour cream

DIRECTIONS:
Heat the olive oil and garlic in a large soup pot. Add the onion and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until tender. Add the broth, water, potatoes, tomatoes, black beans, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are slightly tender, about 20 minutes. Add the seasonings, roasted red peppers, olives, and lime juice. Simmer another 15-20 minutes and stir in the lime juice. Sprinkle servings with green onion, cilantro, cheese, and sour cream, if desired. Enjoy!

Chili Stew
 
Print
The weather has been a bit cold and windy these days, and last night was no exception. On nights like that, a hearty soup or stew hits the spot. I threw in tons of different things in this chili and I think this one is my favorite version so far. It's also great to scoop onto tortilla chips. I had three avocados I planned on dicing up to top the chili, but each one was bad! Total bummer. Crash Test Vegetarian used olives and roasted red peppers in her chili recipe, so I owe her a big thanks for the idea!
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves, garlic
  • 1 Tbs olive oi
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (1/2 C barley is a good sub)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 28-oz can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 4 C vegetable broth
  • 2 C water
  • 1 6-oz can sliced black olives
  • 1 small can tomato paste
  • 3 jarred roasted red peppers, diced
  • ⅛ C lime juice
  • 2-3 Tbs Ancho chili powder
  • 1-1/2 Tbs cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4-5 green onion, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Optional: Vegan cheddar shreds, diced avocado, vegan sour cream
Directions
  1. Heat the olive oil and garlic in a large soup pot. Add the onion and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until tender. Add the broth, water, potatoes, tomatoes, black beans, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are slightly tender, about 20 minutes. Add the seasonings, roasted red peppers, olives, and lime juice. Simmer another 15-20 minutes and stir in the lime juice. Sprinkle servings with green onion, cilantro, cheese, and sour cream, if desired. Enjoy!
3.4.3177

 

Filed Under: Soups Tagged With: black beans, black olives, chili, cilantro, comfort food, easy, gluten-free, Hearty, Mexican, potatoes, roasted red pepper, soy-free, stew, tortilla chips, vegan chili, veggie chili

Easy Tostadas

January 23, 2012 by epicureanvegan

Easy Tostadas -- Epicurean VeganThis is one of those no-brainer meals that when you need something quick and easy, these fit the bill. The Seventh Grader, always helpful when it comes to cooking (but not cleaning) makes this even easier to throw together.

INGREDIENTS:
1 bag Boca crumbles (or other veggie crumbles of your choice)
1 can refried beans
1/2 large onion, dicced
1 Tbs olive oil
1 pkg taco seasoning
8-12 tostada shells
All the fixins’: vegan sour cream, lettuce, tomato, avocado, cilantro, vegan cheddar shreds, and salsa.

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Cook the onion and cook 3-5 minutes. Add the Boca crumbles and cook until heated through. Add the can of refries and combine well. In a small cup, prepare the seasoning mix according to the package instructions and stir into the bean/Boca mixture. Place the tostada shells on a baking sheet and warm for 3-5 minutes. Layer on some of the bean mixture along with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Easy Tostadas
 
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This is one of those no-brainer meals that when you need something quick and easy, these fit the bill. The Seventh Grader, always helpful when it comes to cooking (but not cleaning) makes this even easier to throw together.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 1 bag Boca crumbles (or other veggie crumbles of your choice)
  • 1 can refried beans
  • ½ large onion, dicced
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 pkg taco seasoning
  • 8-12 tostada shells
  • All the fixins': vegan sour cream, lettuce, tomato, avocado, cilantro, vegan cheddar shreds, and salsa.
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Cook the onion and cook 3-5 minutes. Add the Boca crumbles and cook until heated through. Add the can of refries and combine well. In a small cup, prepare the seasoning mix according to the package instructions and stir into the bean/Boca mixture. Place the tostada shells on a baking sheet and warm for 3-5 minutes. Layer on some of the bean mixture along with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
3.5.3208

 

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: avocado, cilantro, daiya, fast and easy, Mexican, salsa, tofutti, tomato, tostadas

Amazing Avocado Salsa

December 3, 2011 by epicureanvegan

Amazing Avocado Salsa -- Epicurean VeganBeware: This feeds a crowd . . . and . . . you can easily fill up on this salsa before dinner because it’s so delicious! It’s packed full of flavor and would be ideal for a summer get together. (yes, it’s December, but avocados were on sale). The recipe is from All Recipes, but I just made a couple of changes such as using red onion instead of yellow and adding 1 cup of fresh cilantro. Dig in!

INGREDIENTS:
1 (16 ounce) package frozen corn kernels, thawed
2 (2.25 ounce) cans sliced ripe olives, drained
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small red onion, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
4 avocados – peeled, pitted and diced

DIRECTIONS:
In a large bowl, mix corn, olives, red bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. In a small bowl, mix garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cider vinegar, oregano, salt and pepper.

Amazing Avocado Salsa -- Epicurean VeganPour into the corn mixture and toss to coat. Cover and chill in the refrigerator 8 hours, or overnight. (I didn’t have time to let it sit that long. I chilled it for about 4 hours). Stir avocados into the mixture before serving with tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices. Enjoy!

Amazing Avocado Salsa
 
Print
Beware: This feeds a crowd . . . and . . . you can easily fill up on this salsa before dinner because it's so delicious! It's packed full of flavor and would be ideal for a summer get together. (yes, it's December, but avocados were on sale). The recipe is from All Recipes, but I just made a couple of changes such as using red onion instead of yellow and adding 1 cup of fresh cilantro. Dig in!
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 1 (16 ounce) package frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 2 (2.25 ounce) cans sliced ripe olives, drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 small red onion, chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 4 avocados - peeled, pitted and diced
Directions
  1. In a large bowl, mix corn, olives, red bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. In a small bowl, mix garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cider vinegar, oregano, salt and pepper.
  2. Pour into the corn mixture and toss to coat. Cover and chill in the refrigerator 8 hours, or overnight. (I didn't have time to let it sit that long. I chilled it for about 4 hours). Stir avocados into the mixture before serving with tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices. Enjoy!
3.5.3208

Filed Under: Appetizers Tagged With: avocados, black olives, cilantro, corn, fast and easy, fresh, red onion, salsa

Mango and Avocado Spring Rolls

September 21, 2011 by epicureanvegan

Mango and Avocado Spring Rolls -- Epicurean VeganI’ve been wanting to make this type of spring roll for a while—I’ve seen recipes for then in various different places, but all I knew is that I had a very ripe avocado and a very ripe mango that needed to be used. These were delicious! The only thing I had trouble with, was coming up with a dipping sauce. Traditional peanut sauce just didn’t seem right for these. They’re good on their own, but I think a sauce would be nice. Any ideas?

INGREDIENTS:
14-16 sheets rice paper
8-oz rice noodles
1-2 avocados, sliced thin
1 mango, sliced thin
1 medium cucumber, cut into matchsticks
1 C fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:
Have everything chopped and ready to go. While chopping, cook the noodles according to package instructions, which is only a few minutes.

Mango and Avocado Spring Rolls -- Epicurean Vegan

Fill a pie plate with warm water. I find it best to set it next to the left of my large wooden cutting board (where I’ll be assembling the rolls). Place a sheet of rice of paper into the water and let it soften for about 45 seconds. Carefully pull it out, let it drip any excess water and then lay it out onto the cutting board. Place another sheet in the water so that it’s ready when you need another one. Start with a handful of rice noodles. They can be hard to tear apart, so I found that having some kitchen scissors on hand is helpful. Place into the middle of the rice paper. Add a couple slices of avocado, mango, and cucumber and top with some cilantro and salt and pepper.

Mango and Avocado Spring Rolls -- Epicurean Vegan

Fold in the sides first, then bring up the bottom and roll up. Transfer to a plate. They’re not that difficult to make as long as your work area is set up before hand. Enjoy!

Mango and Avocado Spring Rolls
 
Print
I've been wanting to make this type of spring roll for a while---I've seen recipes for then in various different places, but all I knew is that I had a very ripe avocado and a very ripe mango that needed to be used. These were delicious! The only thing I had trouble with, was coming up with a dipping sauce. Traditional peanut sauce just didn't seem right for these. They're good on their own, but I think a sauce would be nice. Any ideas?
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 14-16 sheets rice paper
  • 8-oz rice noodles
  • 1-2 avocados, sliced thin
  • 1 mango, sliced thin
  • 1 medium cucumber, cut into matchsticks
  • 1 C fresh cilantro
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
  1. Have everything chopped and ready to go. While chopping, cook the noodles according to package instructions, which is only a few minutes.
  2. Fill a pie plate with warm water. I find it best to set it next to the left of my large wooden cutting board (where I'll be assembling the rolls). Place a sheet of rice of paper into the water and let it soften for about 45 seconds. Carefully pull it out, let it drip any excess water and then lay it out onto the cutting board. Place another sheet in the water so that it's ready when you need another one. Start with a handful of rice noodles. They can be hard to tear apart, so I found that having some kitchen scissors on hand is helpful. Place into the middle of the rice paper. Add a couple slices of avocado, mango, and cucumber and top with some cilantro and salt and pepper.
  3. Fold in the sides first, then bring up the bottom and roll up. Transfer to a plate. They're not that difficult to make as long as your work area is set up before hand. Enjoy!
3.5.3208

 

Filed Under: Appetizers, Sides Tagged With: avocado, cilantro, mango, rice paper, spring rolls

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw

July 1, 2011 by epicureanvegan

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw -- Epicurean VeganI can’t make anything with cilantro in it and not think of my friend, Kerrie. She often checks out my recipes, but when one of them has cilantro in it, she’s very upfront with me about her dislike for the herb. Even just talking about it with her induces her gag reflex. I on the other hand, love it and so I apologize, Kerrie, that the last 2 recipes I’ve posted have had a cup of *gag* cilantro in them! I guarantee however, you’d like these tacos sans your least favorite herb . . . 🙂 The recipe is from VegNews and I made some minor alterations. For one, I couldn’t find Korean red pepper and I left off the avocados (much to my dismay) because they were priced at $1.99 each! They still turned out delish—especially with that cilantro!

INGREDIENTS:
For the tofu:
6 garlic cloves, crushed (I used minced)
1/4 C soy sauce (or tamari)
2 rounded Tbs brown sugar
1 Tbs sesame seeds
1 Tbs peanut oil or vegetable oil (I used olive oil)
2 tsp tomato paste (I froze the rest)
1-1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
1/2 tsp Korean red pepper (I used regular red pepper)
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 14-oz pkg. extra firm tofu, drained, pressed and cut into 8 slices

For the Pear Cilantro Slaw:
1 large Asian pear
2-1/2 C finely shredded cabbage
1 C chopped cilantro
1-2 jalapeno peppers, roasted and finely chopped (I used 1 rounded Tbs of canned)
2 green onions, finely chopped|
3 Tbs lime juice
1 Tbs agave
1/2 tsp salt
The rest:
8 tortillas
8 leaves of green lettuce
2 avocados, sliced
(Optional): mung, soybean, or radish sprouts, hot sauce. I added a shredded carrot.
I also decided to make a sour cream dressing: 1/2 C Tofutti sour cream mixed with some lime juice, garlic salt, and cumin—to taste.

DIRECTIONS:
For the tofu, whisk together the soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, sesame seeds, peanut oil (or other oil), tomato paste, sesame oil, red pepper powder, and green onions.

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw -- Epicurean Vegan

I used an 8″x8″ baking dish, poured some marinade in it, placed the tofu on top, then layered on the rest of the marinade. Spread it around evenly.

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw -- Epicurean Vegan

The recipe says to marinate for 20 minutes, but since I had some time earlier in the afternoon, I made it then and stuck it in the fridge—tightly covered.

To make the slaw, quarter the pear, remove the core and grate it, using the largest holes on a box grater. Squeeze the pear shreds of excess liquid. Place in a large bowl and add the other slaw ingredients; combine well.

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw -- Epicurean Vegan

Over medium-high heat, heat a cast iron, or other skillet and spray with cooking spray. Cook the tofu for about 3 minutes per side, or until brown along the edges.  The recipe didn’t specify whether or not to keep the marinade, so I just added it with the tofu.

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw -- Epicurean Vegan

I then sliced each tofu slab into 3 pieces to make it easier to eat in a taco.

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw -- Epicurean Vegan

Serve in a warmed tortilla with the lettuce leaf, carrot (and any other optional ingredient), slaw, and tofu. I also drizzle on some of my sour cream sauce. So delicious!! Enjoy!

Tacos with Pear Cilantro Slaw
 
Print
The recipe is from VegNews and I made some minor alterations. For one, I couldn't find Korean red pepper and I left off the avocados (much to my dismay) because they were priced at $1.99 each! They still turned out delish.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • For the tofu:
  • 6 garlic cloves, crushed (I used minced)
  • ¼ C soy sauce (or tamari)
  • 2 rounded Tbs brown sugar
  • 1 Tbs sesame seeds
  • 1 Tbs peanut oil or vegetable oil (I used olive oil)
  • 2 tsp tomato paste (I froze the rest)
  • 1-1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • ½ tsp Korean red pepper (I used regular red pepper)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 14-oz pkg. extra firm tofu, drained, pressed and cut into 8 slices
  • For the Pear Cilantro Slaw:
  • 1 large Asian pear
  • 2-1/2 C finely shredded cabbage
  • 1 C chopped cilantro
  • 1-2 jalapeno peppers, roasted and finely chopped (I used 1 rounded Tbs of canned)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped|
  • 3 Tbs lime juice
  • 1 Tbs agave
  • ½ tsp salt
  • The rest:
  • 8 tortillas
  • 8 leaves of green lettuce
  • 2 avocados, sliced
  • (Optional): mung, soybean, or radish sprouts, hot sauce. I added a shredded carrot.
  • I also decided to make a sour cream dressing: ½ C Tofutti sour cream mixed with some lime juice, garlic salt, and cumin---to taste.
Directions
  1. For the tofu, whisk together the soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, sesame seeds, peanut oil (or other oil), tomato paste, sesame oil, red pepper powder, and green onions.
  2. I used an 8"x8" baking dish, poured some marinade in it, placed the tofu on top, then layered on the rest of the marinade. Spread it around evenly.
  3. The recipe says to marinate for 20 minutes, but since I had some time earlier in the afternoon, I made it then and stuck it in the fridge---tightly covered.
  4. To make the slaw, quarter the pear, remove the core and grate it, using the largest holes on a box grater. Squeeze the pear shreds of excess liquid. Place in a large bowl and add the other slaw ingredients; combine well.
  5. Over medium-high heat, heat a cast iron, or other skillet and spray with cooking spray. Cook the tofu for about 3 minutes per side, or until brown along the edges. The recipe didn't specify whether or not to keep the marinade, so I just added it with the tofu.
  6. I then sliced each tofu slab into 3 pieces to make it easier to eat in a taco.
  7. Serve in a warmed tortilla with the lettuce leaf, carrot (and any other optional ingredient), slaw, and tofu. I also drizzle on some of my sour cream sauce. So delicious!! Enjoy!
3.5.3208

 

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: Asian, cilantro, easy, slaw, tacos, tofu, tortillas

Sweet Potato, Kale and Black Bean Fajitas

March 16, 2011 by epicureanvegan

Sweet Potato, Kale and Black Bean Fajitas - Epicurean VeganI’mmmm baaaacckkk! And boy, does it feel good. I had an amazing conference experience that you can read about at Folsom’s 93 and then a fabulous respite up in the mountains where we got to spend time with some great friends and just relax. It was the perfect opportunity to try out a new recipe from my friend at Tried and Tasted Recipes and it was absolutely delicious! I will be making this again and again. It makes quite a bit, as we fed about 8 and still had leftovers.

INGREDIENTS:
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 large or 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/4 inch cubes (I used 2)
2 red bell peppers, diced
1 large red onion, diced
10 cloves garlic, minced, divided
1 large bunch of kale, rinsed and roughly chopped
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (I used 1-1/2 cans)
2 tsp ground cumin, divided (I recommend more)
1 tsp ancho chili powder (again, I suggest adding more)
Freshly ground salt and pepper
8 tortillas
Optional ingredients: Cilantro, Tofutti sour cream, vegan shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheeze, guacamole

DIRECTIONS:
In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add 6 cloves of minced garlic; saute 5 minutes. Add the potatoes and peppers, and saute another 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 tsp of the cumin and the ancho chili powder. Turn to medium heat and cook for 10 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.

In a smaller saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and garlic. Add the beans and kale; stir once and cover for 2-3 minutes, or until the kale has cooked down. Season with the rest of the cumin and more salt and pepper.

Sweet Potato, Kale and Black Bean Fajitas - Epicurean VeganServe a scoop or two of each mixture onto warmed flour tortillas with Tofutti sour cream, cilantro, cheeze, and guacamole. You won’t be disappointed—they are outstanding!

Sweet Potato, Kale and Black Bean Fajitas
 
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This recipe comes from my friend at Tried and Tasted Recipes and it was absolutely delicious! I will be making this again and again. It makes quite a bit, as we fed about 8 and still had leftovers.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 large or 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into ¼ inch cubes (I used 2)
  • 2 red bell peppers, diced
  • 1 large red onion, diced
  • 10 cloves garlic, minced, divided
  • 1 large bunch of kale, rinsed and roughly chopped
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (I used 1-1/2 cans)
  • 2 tsp ground cumin, divided (I recommend more)
  • 1 tsp ancho chili powder (again, I suggest adding more)
  • Freshly ground salt and pepper
  • 8 tortillas
  • Optional ingredients: Cilantro, Tofutti sour cream, vegan shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheeze, guacamole
Directions
  1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add 6 cloves of minced garlic; saute 5 minutes. Add the potatoes and peppers, and saute another 5 minutes. Stir in ½ tsp of the cumin and the ancho chili powder. Turn to medium heat and cook for 10 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.
  2. In a smaller saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and garlic. Add the beans and kale; stir once and cover for 2-3 minutes, or until the kale has cooked down. Season with the rest of the cumin and more salt and pepper.
  3. Serve a scoop or two of each mixture onto warmed flour tortillas with Tofutti sour cream, cilantro, cheeze, and guacamole. You won't be disappointed---they are outstanding!
3.5.3208

 

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: black beans, cilantro, easy, fajitas, kale, Mexican, Sweet potatoes, tofutti, Vegan, vegetarian

Pineapple Salsa

November 26, 2010 by epicureanvegan

Vegan MoFo, Day 26

Pineapple Salsa -- Epicurean VeganHappy Black Friday. As for me, I’m staying far away from the maddening crowds; safe at home.

My mom made this salsa—the recipe is actually from a friend and it won first place in a recent salsa contest. One bite and you’ll see why!

INGREDIENTS:
1 can pineapple rings, drained
1 medium red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 of a bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped fine
1 chili pepper of choice, such as an anaheim

DIRECTIONS:
Grill the pineapple rings about 5 minutes on each side. Chop up and combine with the other ingredients. So easy! Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy.

Filed Under: Appetizers, Vegan MoFo Tagged With: cilantro, fast and easy, pineapple

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The Epicurean Vegan is devoted to those wanting to eat healthy, save animals, and reduce their carbon footprint. My decision to go vegan started out as a quest to get healthier, but the more I learned about veganism, the more I realized how damaging the meat and dairy industries are to the environment and, of course, the animals. And it is for these reasons, that I would never go back to eating or wearing animal products. Ever.
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