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Creamy Mushroom & Spinach Soup

January 3, 2017 by Epicurean Vegan

Creamy Mushroom & Spinach Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

It’s hard to beat a comforting, savory soup on a cold night. It’s also great when it doesn’t take a lot of time to make, so this is perfect for a snowy weeknight. I served this with a side Caesar salad which paired together beautifully!

INGREDIENTS:
6 small russet potatoes, diced (about 4 C)
4-5 C vegetable broth
16-oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 bunch spinach, chopped small/fine
1 can lite coconut milk
1/2 tsp thyme
1/4 tsp rosemary
3/4 tsp Herbs de Provence
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 green onion or one bunch of chives, chopped

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, bring the broth to a boil and add the potatoes. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Add half of the sliced mushrooms and about 2/3 of the canned coconut milk. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. (I mostly pureed it, but left just a few chunks.) Season with the thyme, rosemary, Herbs de Provence, salt, pepper and garlic. Stir in the rest of the mushrooms, along with the spinach and remaining coconut milk. Add more broth if you feel it needs thinning. Bring to a low simmer and serve individual servings topped with green onion or chives. Enjoy!

Creamy Mushroom & Spinach Soup
 
Print
Prep time
15 mins
Cook time
40 mins
Total time
55 mins
 
It's hard to beat a comforting, savory soup on a cold night. It's also great when it doesn't take a lot of time to make, so this is perfect for a snowy weeknight. I served this with a side Caesar salad which paired together beautifully!
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 6 small russet potatoes, diced (about 4 C)
  • 4-5 C vegetable broth
  • 16-oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 bunch spinach, chopped small/fine
  • 1 can lite coconut milk
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ¼ tsp rosemary
  • ¾ tsp Herbs de Provence
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 green onion or one bunch of chives, chopped
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, bring the broth to a boil and add the potatoes. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  2. Add half of the sliced mushrooms and about ⅔ of the canned coconut milk. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. (I mostly pureed it, but left just a few chunks.)
  3. Season with the thyme, rosemary, Herbs de Provence, salt, pepper and garlic.
  4. Stir in the rest of the mushrooms, along with the spinach and remaining coconut milk. Add more broth if you feel it needs thinning.
  5. Bring to a low simmer and serve individual servings topped with green onion or chives. Enjoy!
3.5.3226

 

Filed Under: Soups Tagged With: comfort food, fast and easy, mushrooms, potatoes, savory, soup, spinach, stew, Vegan, vegetarian

Truffle Gnocchi and Roasted Veggies with Lemon-Butter Sauce

December 14, 2015 by Epicurean Vegan

Truffle Gnocchi with Roasted Veggies in a Lemon-Butter Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Oh my. Where to start? First, this meal comes together in less that 30 minutes, so it’s ideal for a busy weeknight. But you won’t care if it took hours—it’s that amazing. Creamy, lemony, truffle-y, decadent . . . Low in calorie? Uhhh . . . not so much. But you know what? That’s okay! For Pete’s sake, live a little! Even vegans indulge! (All right, enough exclamation points—I got carried away.)  But seriously, this is divine. Pre-packaged gnocchi makes this a quick and easy meal and did I mention it’s truffle-fied?!

Truffle Gnocchi and Roasted Veggies in a Lemon-Butter Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Truffle and lemon totally get it on in this dish. You will fall in love too. So pair it with a salad (so you don’t eat the entire thing) and spice up a regular, ol’ Tuesday night with this decadent dish.

INGREDIENTS:
16-oz pkg. truffle & porchini mushroom gnocchi (like this one from World Market)
1 small bundle asparagus, ends trimmed and stalks cut into thirds
8-10 large mushrooms, quartered
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Lemon-Butter Sauce
3 Tbs vegan margarine
1 large garlic clove, minced
4 Tbs flour
1/8 C white wine
1/4 C lemon juice
1/2 C water
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
Zest from one lemon
1/2 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400. In a medium bowl, combine the asparagus and mushrooms and drizzle with a little olive oil—just enough to coat—and season with salt and pepper.
Truffle Gnocchi with Roasted Veggies in a Lemon-Butter Sauce -- Epicurean VeganTransfer to a large baking sheet. These will only take about 10-12 minutes to roast, so get the water boiling for your gnocchi which only needs about 5 minutes. The sauce will only take about that much time, so start the sauce once you toss the gnocchi in.

To make the sauce, melt the vegan margarine and add the garlic. Whisk in the flour.  It will thicken up quickly. Whisk in the white wine; it will thicken even more and then add the lemon juice. Let it thicken, then slowly add a bit of water to thin it out. You may or may not need the full 1/2 cup of water, so add as much as you think you need to get a sauce that isn’t too thick. (Think Caesar dressing-like.) Finally, whisk in the nutritional yeast, lemon zest, and salt.

Truffle Gnocchi with Roasted Veggies in a Lemon-Butter Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Once the gnocchi is drained, add it to the roasted veggies.
Truffle Gnocchi with Roasted Veggies in a Lemon-Butter Sauce -- Epicurean VeganAdd the sauce and coat thoroughly. Enjoy! Seriously. Enjoy.

Truffle Gnocchi and Roasted Veggies withLemon-Butter Sauce
 
Print
Oh my. Where to start? First, this meal comes together in less that 30 minutes, so it's idea for a busy weeknight. But you won't care if it took hours---it's that amazing. Creamy, lemony, truffle-y, decadent . . . Low in calorie? Uhhh . . . not so much. But you know what? That's okay! For Pete's sake, live a little! Even vegans indulge! (All right, enough exclamation points---I got carried away.) But seriously, this is divine. Pre-packaged gnocchi makes this a quick and easy meal and did I mention it's truffle-fied?! Truffle and lemon totally get it on in this dish. You will fall in love too. So pair it with a salad (so you don't eat the entire thing) and spice up a Tuesday night with this decadent dish.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 16-oz pkg. truffle & porchini mushroom gnocchi (like this one from World Market)
  • 1 small bundle asparagus, ends trimmed and stalks cut into thirds
  • 8-10 large mushrooms, quartered
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Lemon-Butter Sauce
  • 3 Tbs vegan margarine
  • 1 large garlic clove, minced
  • 4 Tbs flour
  • ⅛ C white wine
  • ¼ C lemon juice
  • ½ C water
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • Zest from one lemon
  • ½ tsp salt
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 400.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the asparagus and mushrooms and drizzle with a little olive oil---just enough to coat---and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Transfer to a large baking sheet. These will only take about 10-12 minutes to roast, so get the water boiling for your gnocchi which only needs about 5 minutes. The sauce will only take about that much time, so start the sauce once you toss the gnocchi in.
  4. To make the sauce, melt the vegan margarine and add the garlic. Whisk in the flour. It will thicken up quickly. Whisk in the white wine; it will thicken even more and then add the lemon juice. Let it thicken , then slowly add a bit of water to thin it out. You may or may not need the full ½ cup of water, so add as much as you think you need to get a sauce that isn't too thick. (Sorry to be vague!) Finally, whisk in the nutritional yeast and salt.
  5. Once the gnocchi is drained, add it to the roasted veggies.
  6. Add the sauce and coat thoroughly. Enjoy! Seriously. Enjoy.
3.5.3208

 

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: asparagus, comfort food, creamy, decadent, fast and easy, gnocchi, mushrooms, roasted vegetables

Kale & Wild Rice Casserole

March 11, 2015 by Epicurean Vegan

Kale & Wild Rice CasseroleI saw this recipe and it looked delicious, but I made several tweaks, including making it vegan. This dish has many of my favorite ingredients: kale, wild rice, and mushrooms. It’s pretty easy to make, but it does have a few steps. I recommend making the rice ahead of time, otherwise, keep in mind that it takes about 45 minutes for the rice to cook. Of course, I think it’s absolutely worth it. This dish is also easily gluten-free if you sub in a wheat-free flour (you’ll only need 5 tablespoons). A fantastic main meal or side dish that will please the troops.

INGREDIENTS:
4 C cooked wild rice (I used 2-1/2 C vegetable broth + 2 C wild rice mix from Lundberg)
3 bunches of kale, torn into large pieces
16-oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbs dried thyme
1/4 tsp nutmeg
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
5 Tbs flour
1 C vegetable broth
1/2 can coconut milk (I used lite)
1/4 C nutritional yeast flakes
1/2 C Daiya mozzarella shreds
1 Tbs olive oil
1 large white onion, cut into thin slices
1/2 C panko bread crumbs

DIRECTIONS:
Start with the rice. Cook it according to package instructions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, combine the kale with 1-1/2 cups of water. Over medium heat, steam the kale for about 5-7 minutes.
Kale & Wild Rice Casserole -- Epicurean VeganRemove the kale to a bowl and set aside. Using the same skillet, heat the margarine and add the garlic. Saute over medium-low heat and then add the mushrooms. Saute for 2 minutes, then add the thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Kale & Wild Rice Casserole -- Epicurean VeganAdd the kale to the mushrooms and sprinkle with the flour. Over medium heat, add the broth a 1/4 of a cup at a time. Let the sauce thicken a little before adding more broth. Next, slowly add the coconut milk and stir often. Fold in the nutritional yeast.
Kale & Wild Rice Casserole -- Epicurean VeganAt this point, preheat the oven to 375 and grease a 9×13″ pan. Once the rice is cooked, add it to the kale and mushroom mixture, then transfer to the baking dish. Either in a new skillet, or the same one (wiped clean), heat the olive oil and add the onions. Cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle the Daiya cheese over the mixture, then top with the cooked onion slices. I then topped with panko, but I also recommend making breadcrumbs yourselves by chopping up two slices of bread in the food processor with 1 tbs of margarine, until you have a fine crumble. They’re so delicious!

Kale & Wild Rice Casserole -- Epicurean VeganBake uncovered for 25 minutes. Enjoy!

Kale & Wild Rice Casserole
 
Print
Prep time
45 mins
Cook time
25 mins
Total time
1 hour 10 mins
 
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 4 C cooked wild rice (I used 2-1/2 C vegetable broth + 2 C wild rice mix from Lundberg)
  • 3 bunches of kale, torn into large pieces
  • 16-oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
  • 2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs dried thyme
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 5 Tbs flour
  • 1 C vegetable broth
  • ½ can coconut milk (I used lite)
  • ¼ C nutritional yeast flakes
  • ½ C Daiya mozzarella shreds
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 large white onion, cut into thin slices
  • ½ C panko bread crumbs
Directions
  1. Start with the rice. Cook it according to package instructions.
  2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, combine the kale with 1-1/2 cups of water. Over medium heat, steam the kale for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kale to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Using the same skillet, heat the margarine and add the garlic. Saute over medium-low heat and then add the mushrooms. Saute for 2 minutes, then add the thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the kale to the mushrooms and sprinkle with the flour.
  5. Over medium heat, add the broth a ¼ of a cup at a time. Let the sauce thicken a little before adding more broth.
  6. Next, slowly add the coconut milk and stir often. Fold in the nutritional yeast.
  7. At this point, preheat the oven to 375 and grease a 9x13" pan.
  8. Once the rice is cooked, add it to the kale and mushroom mixture, then transfer to the baking dish.
  9. Either in a new skillet, or the same one (wiped clean), heat the olive oil and add the onions. Cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
  10. Sprinkle the Daiya cheese over the mixture, then top with the cooked onion slices.
  11. I then topped with panko, but I also recommend making breadcrumbs yourselves by chopping up two slices of bread in the food processor with 1 tbs of margarine, until you have a fine crumble.
  12. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. Enjoy!
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Filed Under: Dinners, Sides Tagged With: casserole, coconut milk, comfort food, creamy, daiya, easy, kale, Lundberg Rice, mushrooms, vegan casserole, vegetarian casserole, wild rice

Hearty Tuscan Chili

September 23, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganI like to imagine the posh Italian ski resorts would serve something like this, or at a cafe where snow is lightly falling in Milan. With a nice glass of red wine, this flavorful stew is perfect for a fall or winter evening with friends. This would also be great for tossing in the crockpot and letting it simmer on low all day (just do the sauteeing ahead of time). Served with some crusty bread or croutons, you’ll feel like the Italian Alps are right outside your window.

INGREDIENTS:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbs olive oil
1 red onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 Tofurky sausages, Spinach & Pesto flavor, cut into small cubes
1 medium zucchini, cut into small cubes
15-oz can tri-bean blend (or Cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
14-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
2-1/2 C vegetable broth
1/4 C red wine
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp parsley
1/2 tsp crushed rosemary
1/4 tsp thyme
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Crusty bread or croutons
Hearty Tuscan Chili2-- Epicurean VeganDIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 2 minutes, then add the onion and red bell pepper; cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Next, add the Tofurky and saute another 5-8 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for 5 minutes.
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganAdd the beans, tomatoes, wine, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganTop with croutons or serve with some crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean Vegan

Hearty Tuscan Chili
 
Print
Prep time
10 mins
Cook time
30 mins
Total time
40 mins
 
I like to imagine the posh Italian ski resorts would serve something like this, or at a cafe where snow is lightly falling in Milan. With a nice glass of red wine, this flavorful stew is perfect for a fall or winter evening with friends. This would also be great for tossing in the crockpot and letting it simmer on low all day (just do the sauteeing ahead of time). Served with some crusty bread or croutons, you'll feel like the Italian Alps are right outside your window.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 Tofurky sausages, Spinach & Pesto flavor, cut into small cubes
  • 1 medium zucchini, cut into small cubes
  • 15-oz can tri-bean blend (or Cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
  • 14-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2-1/2 C vegetable broth
  • ¼ C red wine
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp basil
  • ½ tsp parsley
  • ½ tsp crushed rosemary
  • ¼ tsp thyme
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Crusty bread or croutons
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 2 minutes, then add the onion and red bell pepper; cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Next, add the Tofurky and saute another 5-8 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the beans, tomatoes, wine, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
  3. Top with croutons or serve with some crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!
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Filed Under: Soups Tagged With: bell pepper, comfort food, fast and easy, Hearty, Italian, red onion, Tofurky, vegan chili, vegan Tuscan chili, veggie chili, zucchini

Pasta with Cashew Cream & Cheese

July 30, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Pasta with Cashew Cream and Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan(Unfortunately) most of us probably grew up on the boxed mac and cheese stuff, and likely, so have our kids. And kids like their mac and cheese. Instead of giving them that nasty, chemical-filled boxed junk, try making this kid-pleasing version using grated vegan cheese and cashew cream. Not only is it creamy, but it actually tastes cheesy and pretty darn delicious. While this may not top the list of the most healthiest vegan dishes, it’s miles from the fat-laden dairy version. Cashews are loaded with heart-protective monosaturated fats, antioxidants, calcium and protein. You can use your favorite vegan cheddar such as Daiya, Follow Your Heart or even make your own. This is also an easy recipe that your kiddos can help out with too!

INGREDIENTS:
16-oz uncooked pasta, such as elbows, shells or spirals
1 to 1-1/4 C vegetable broth (it just depends on how thick you want it)
4-oz vegan cheddar, shredded (I used Follow Your Heart brand)
1/3 C nutritional yeast
1 C cashews, soaked for at least an hour in hot water (if you can; no biggie if you can’t soak them)
1/2 C water
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
2 dashes of nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional ingredients: sneak in those veggies by adding peas, carrots or broccoli. Or spice it up with green chilies or salsa.

Pasta with Cashew Cream and Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
Cook the pasta according to package instruction, or until al dente. Meanwhile, make the cashew cream. If you soaked the cashews, drain them and transfer to a food processor. Puree until finely ground, scraping the sides of processor bowl if necessary. Add the water, apple cider vinegar and salt. Puree 2 minutes, or until smooth. Drain the pasta, then return it to the pot. Over medium-low heat, fold in the grated cheese,  cashew cream, broth and nutritional yeast. Combine well and continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted. Season with the nutmeg, salt and pepper. If using, add the optional ingredients and stir until heated through. Enjoy!

Pasta with Cashew Cream & Cheese
 
Print
Prep time
5 mins
Cook time
15 mins
Total time
20 mins
 
(Unfortunately) most of us probably grew up on the boxed mac and cheese stuff, and likely, so have our kids. And kids like their mac and cheese. Instead of giving them that nasty, chemical-filled boxed junk, try making this kid-pleasing version using grated vegan cheese and cashew cream. Not only is it creamy, but it actually tastes cheesy and pretty darn delicious. While this may not top the list of the most healthiest vegan dishes, it's miles from the fat-laden dairy version. Cashews are loaded with heart-protective monosaturated fats, antioxidants, calcium and protein. You can use your favorite vegan cheddar such as Daiya, Follow Your Heart or even make your own. This is also an easy recipe that your kiddos can help out with too!
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 16-oz uncooked pasta, such as elbows, shells or spirals
  • 1 to 1-1/4 C vegetable broth (it just depends on how thick you want it)
  • 4-oz vegan cheddar, shredded (I used Follow Your Heart brand)
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • 1 C cashews, soaked for at least an hour in hot water (if you can; no biggie if you can't soak them)
  • ½ C water
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 dashes of nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional ingredients: sneak in those veggies by adding peas, carrots or broccoli. Or spice it up with green chilies or salsa.
Directions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instruction, or until al dente. Meanwhile, make the cashew cream. If you soaked the cashews, drain them and transfer to a food processor. Puree until finely ground, scraping the sides of processor bowl if necessary. Add the water, apple cider vinegar and salt. Puree 2 minutes, or until smooth.
  2. Drain the pasta, then return it to the pot. Over medium-low heat, fold in the grated cheese, cashew cream, broth and nutritional yeast. Combine well and continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted.
  3. Season with the nutmeg, salt and pepper. If using, add the optional ingredients and stir until heated through. Enjoy!
3.4.3177

 

 

 

Filed Under: Dinners, Lunches Tagged With: cashew cream, cashews, comfort food, creamy, fast and easy, Follow Your Heart, kid-friendly, Pasta, vegan mac and cheese

Wild Rice & Potato Stew with Field Roast

February 6, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean VeganCan you tell that I’m loving my new Dutch oven?! But really, this could be made with a regular soup pot too, but it’s way more satisfying to get use out of a new kitchen toy. This is a little similar to the Creamy Wild Rice Soup, but I revved it up by adding a Field Roast sausage (which we all thought, made the soup) and some other seasonings. I also didn’t have to prepare a roux, so it was even easier. This stew is perfect for a cold and wintry night. We’ve been socked in with LOTS of snow and temps this week haven’t risen much above 12 degrees. Our rain chain is certainly feeling it . . .

rainchainINGREDIENTS:
2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
1/2 large red onion (about a cup)
3 carrots, peeled and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 C vegetable broth
1 C wild rice mix (I like Lundberg’s Wild Blend)
1 Field Roast sausage (either Apple & Sage, or Italian Seasoning flavor), crumbled
3 small red potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1-1/2 cups)
1/2 C Tofutti sour cream
1/4 C almond milk
3 Tbs flour
3/4 tsp Herbs de Provence
Salt and pepper, to taste

Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
In a Dutch oven (3Q or larger) or in a large soup pot, melt the Earth Balance over medium-high heat. Add the onions and carrots and cook 4-5 minutes, or until they are softened. Stir in the garlic and Field Roast and saute over medium heat for 3 minutes. Pour in the broth and rice; cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 40 minutes. Add the diced potatoes and cook covered for another 20-25 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream, milk and flour until well blended; stir into the soup. Season with the Herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper.

Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean VeganLet it cook a few minutes longer until heated through, then enjoy! (Serves 6)
Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean Vegan

Wild Rice & Potato Stew with Field Roast
 
Print
Prep time
10 mins
Cook time
1 hour 5 mins
Total time
1 hour 15 mins
 
This stew is perfect for a cold and wintry night, but I make it often throughout the year; it's just that good!
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
  • ½ large red onion (about a cup)
  • 3 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 C vegetable broth
  • 1 C wild rice mix (I like Lundberg's Wild Blend)
  • 1 Field Roast sausage (either Apple & Sage, or Italian Seasoning flavor), crumbled
  • 3 small red potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1-1/2 cups)
  • ½ C Tofutti sour cream
  • ¼ C almond milk
  • 3 Tbs flour
  • ¾ tsp Herbs de Provence
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
  1. In a Dutch oven (3Q or larger) or in a large soup pot, melt the Earth Balance over medium-high heat. Add the onions and carrots and cook 4-5 minutes, or until they are softened. Stir in the garlic and Field Roast and saute over medium heat for 3 minutes.
  2. Pour in the broth and rice; cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 40 minutes.
  3. Add the diced potatoes and cook covered for another 20-25 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream, milk and flour until well blended; stir into the soup.
  5. Season with the Herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper.
  6. Let it cook a few minutes longer until heated through, then enjoy!
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Filed Under: Dinners, Soups Tagged With: comfort food, comfort stew, creamy, Dutch oven, easy, Field Roast, make ahead, potato stew, tofutti, Vegan, vegan potato stew, wild rice

Vegan White Lasagna

October 8, 2012 by epicureanvegan

Vegan White Lasagna -- Epicurean VeganSo there are moments in history where you want to slap your forehead and say, “Seriously?” The OJ Simpson acquittal. . . Lady GagGag’s meat dress . . . the recent attacks on Sesame Street . . . Oh, and the terrible call that cost cost the Green Bay Packers the game against the Seattle Seahawks a couple of weeks ago . . .(that’s for you, Jessie)! I had a moment of forehead-slapping-followed-by-a-REALLY? when I forgot a key ingredient in this meal. Pesto. See . . . I even made it:

Vegan White Lasagna -- Epicurean VeganBut I made it earlier in the day and forgot to use it. Wheresma pesto? In the fridge. For those of you unfamiliar with “wheresma,” let me give you a brief history. My dear and wonderful husband apparently earned the nickname, “Wheresma” because he often asked, “Where’s my (this)?” “Where’s my (that)? Enduring, right? No. Wheresma makes an appearance every once in while . . .

Anyhoo . . . I have to admit, the lasagna just wasn’t the same without the pesto. I highly recommend you don’t forget this ingredient. It was still tasty and leftover-worthy, but it didn’t have the flavor I was hoping for, so don’t forget the pesto!

INGREDIENTS:
Ricotta:
1 12-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
1/3 C nutritional yeast
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 Tbs lemon juice
1/4 C vegan mozzarella
Pesto:
4 C basil leaves
1 C Italian leaf parsley
1 C pine nuts
4 cloves garlic cut into small pieces
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 C lemon juice
2/3 C olive oil
6 Tbs vegan Parmesan cheese
White sauce:
3 Tbs Earth Balance
1/4 C flour
2 C almond milk
1/2 C white wine
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
Dash of nutmeg
1/3 C nutritional yeast
The rest:
12 lasagna noodles
5 C kale, chopped
2 C mushrooms, sliced
1 C onion, diced
olive oil
Vegan mozzarella, optional

DIRECTIONS:
Save yourself a headache by making the ricotta and pesto a day ahead, or at least earlier in the day. (Just don’t forget about them). For the ricotta, combine everything but the vegan mozzarella in the food processor. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the cheese. To make the pesto, combine everything but the pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth. Add the nuts and Parm and blend well.

I like using traditional lasagna noodles, as opposed to the no-boil variety. The trick is to not boil them too long. They’ll cook the rest of the way later on in the oven. I also made a small batch (8″x8″) pan, which meant cutting 2-3″ off the noodles in order to fit the pan. I ended up with 4 layers, but feel free to make 3 layers in a 9×13″ pan. So . . .to begin, start boiling the noodles. Meanwhile, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook 5-7 minutes, or until the onions get tender. Add the mushrooms and kale and cook a few more minutes, until the mushrooms soften and the kale wilts.

Vegan White Lasagna -- Epicurean Vegan

To make the sauce, melt the Earth Balance. Slowly whisk the flour, a little at a time until you reach a thick paste.

Vegan White Lasagna -- Epicurean Vegan

Whisk in the milk a little bit at a time until there aren’t any clumps left. Stir with a whisk over medium-high heat until thickened, about 7 minutes.  Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Vegan White Lasagna -- Epicurean Vegan

Preheat the oven to 350. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. Pour about half of the sauce mixture on the bottom of an 8×8″ baking dish. Lay 3 lasagna noodles (you’ll need to cut the noodles to fit) on the bottom of the pan. Spread on about 2 Tbs of ricotta on each noodle, then a layer of the pesto. Top with a thin layer of  the mushroom/kale mixture.

Vegan White Lasagna -- Epicurean Vegan

Repeat layers, ending with the final three lasagna noodles. Pour the rest of the sauce on top. Sprinkle with some vegan mozzarella if you’d like.

Vegan White Lasagna -- Epicurean Vegan

Cover and bake for 40 minutes. Enjoy!

Vegan White Lasagna
 
Print
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • Ricotta:
  • 1 12-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 Tbs lemon juice
  • ¼ C vegan mozzarella
  • Pesto:
  • 4 C basil leaves
  • 1 C Italian leaf parsley
  • 1 C pine nuts
  • 4 cloves garlic cut into small pieces
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ C lemon juice
  • ⅔ C olive oil
  • 6 Tbs vegan Parmesan cheese
  • White sauce:
  • 3 Tbs Earth Balance
  • ¼ C flour
  • 2 C almond milk
  • ½ C white wine
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
  • Dash of nutmeg
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • The rest:
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 5 C kale, chopped
  • 2 C mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 C onion, diced
  • olive oil
  • Vegan mozzarella, optional
Directions
  1. Save yourself a headache by making the ricotta and pesto a day ahead, or at least earlier in the day. (Just don't forget about them.) For the ricotta, combine everything but the vegan mozzarella in the food processor. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the cheese.
  2. To make the pesto, combine everything but the pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth. Add the nuts and Parm and blend well.
  3. I like using traditional lasagna noodles, as opposed to the no-boil variety. The trick is to not boil them too long. They'll cook the rest of the way later on in the oven. I also made a small batch (8"x8") pan, which meant cutting 2-3" off the noodles in order to fit the pan. I ended up with 4 layers, but feel free to make 3 layers in a 9x13" pan. So . . .to begin, start boiling the noodles. Meanwhile, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook 5-7 minutes, or until the onions get tender. Add the mushrooms and kale and cook a few more minutes, until the mushrooms soften and the kale wilts.
  4. To make the sauce, melt the Earth Balance. Slowly whisk the flour, a little at a time until you reach a thick paste.
  5. Whisk in the milk a little bit at a time until there aren't any clumps left. Stir with a whisk over medium-high heat until thickened, about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. Pour about half of the sauce mixture on the bottom of an 8x8" baking dish. Lay 3 lasagna noodles (you'll need to cut the noodles to fit) on the bottom of the pan. Spread on about 2 Tbs of ricotta on each noodle, then a layer of the pesto. Top with a thin layer of the mushroom/kale mixture.
  7. Repeat layers, ending with the final three lasagna noodles. Pour the rest of the sauce on top. Sprinkle with some vegan mozzarella if you'd like.
  8. Cover and bake for 40 minutes. Enjoy!
3.3.3077

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: comfort food, easy, Italian, kale, lasagna, mushrooms, pesto, Vegan, white sauce

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin

July 10, 2012 by epicureanvegan

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin -- Epicurean Vegan

We’re a potato-loving crowd around here. We’re certainly loving the leftovers of these, too. I didn’t want to overdo the carbs with this meal, so I steamed some kale and carrots, and had a side of fresh fruit salad.

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
8 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced very thin
3 Tbs vegetable broth
1 garlic clove, minced
2 Tbs arrowroot
1 tsp salt (or Old Bay Seasoning)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dry mustard
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1-1/2 C almond milk
1 C shredded vegan cheddar, divided
3 slices of bread (the heels of the load are ideal for this)
3 Tbs vegan margarine, divided
Paprika

DIRECTIONS:

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin -- Epicurean Vegan

Preheat oven to 400. Spread half of the potato slices on the bottom of a 9×13″ baking pan. In a medium saucepan, heat one tablespoon of the Earth Balance and add the garlic. Cook for a minute. Add the broth or water and bring to a boil. Whisk in the arrowroot and cook for a minute over medium heat. Slowly add the almond milk and whisk as you go. Raise the heat and little and continue stirring until it begins to thicken. Add the salt, pepper, dry mustard, and nutmeg. Stir in half of the vegan cheese.

Once the cheese is mostly melted, spread half of the milk mixture on top of the potatoes in the pan.

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin -- Epicurean Vegan

Layer the remaining potatoes on top, then spread the rest of the sauce on top. To make breadcrumbs, combine the slices of bread and remaining 2 Tbs of Earth Balance in a food processor. Pulse until crumbly and sprinkle on top of potatoes, along with the rest of the cheese.

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin -- Epicurean Vegan

 Sprinkle the top with paprika. Cover and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender (check using a fork or toothpick).

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin -- Epicurean Vegan

Enjoy!

Vegan Potatoes au Gratin
 
Print
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 8 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced very thin
  • 3 Tbs vegetable broth
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 Tbs arrowroot
  • 1 tsp salt (or Old Bay Seasoning)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dry mustard
  • ⅛ tsp nutmeg
  • 1-1/2 C almond milk
  • 1 C shredded vegan cheddar, divided
  • 3 slices of bread (the heels of the load are ideal for this)
  • 3 Tbs vegan margarine, divided
  • Paprika
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 400. Spread half of the potato slices on the bottom of a 9x13" baking pan. In a medium saucepan, heat one tablespoon of the vegan margarine and add the garlic. Cook for a minute. Add the broth or water and bring to a boil. Whisk in the arrowroot and cook for a minute over medium heat. Slowly add the almond milk and whisk as you go. Raise the heat and little and continue stirring until it begins to thicken. Add the salt, pepper, dry mustard, and nutmeg. Stir in half of the vegan cheese.
  2. Once the cheese is mostly melted, spread half of the milk mixture on top of the potatoes in the pan.
  3. Layer the remaining potatoes on top, then spread the rest of the sauce on top. To make breadcrumbs, combine the slices of bread and remaining 2 Tbs of vegan margarine in a food processor. Pulse until crumbly and sprinkle on top of potatoes, along with the rest of the cheese.
  4. Sprinkle the top with paprika. Cover and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender (check using a fork or toothpick). Enjoy!
3.4.3177

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: almond milk, comfort food, easy, potatoes, potatoes au gratin, Vegan

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

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole

April 3, 2011 by epicureanvegan

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole -- Epicurean VeganYesterday’s nearly 80 degree day turned to a cloudy and soon-to-be rainy day today, so a breakfast casserole seemed quite appropriate for the morning. It didn’t disappoint and has proved to be ideal for a cozy day in. Turn it into a breakfast burrito by wrapping some up in a flour tortilla.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced
3 small russet potatoes, diced
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
1 C mushrooms, chopped
2 Chipotle-flavored Field Roast sausages
1-1/2 C fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 pkg silken tofu
1/3 C nutritional yeast flakes
8-oz vegan pepper jack, or other favorite vegan cheeze, shredded
1/2 C Tofutti sour cream
3/4 C almond milk
1/4 to 1/3 C panko bread crumbs

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. Lightly spray a 13″x9″ baking pan with cooking spray; set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add all of the potatoes. Cook, covered, on medium heat for 15 minutes, or until they just begin to soften (stir them often).

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole -- Epicurean VeganAdd the bell pepper and Field Roast; cook another 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the tofu, cheeze, sour cream, nutritional yeast, and almond milk. Stir in the spinach.

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole -- Epicurean VeganAdd the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften, 2-3 minutes.

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole -- Epicurean VeganThen combine the potato mixture to the tofu mixture and stir well to combine. Pour mixture in the pan and top with the panko.

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole -- Epicurean VeganCover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake another 5 minutes. Let sit a few minutes, then dig in and enjoy!

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole -- Epicurean Vegan

Field Roast and Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole
 
Print
Yesterday's nearly 80 degree day turned to a cloudy and soon-to-be rainy day today, so a breakfast casserole seemed quite appropriate for the morning. It didn't disappoint and has proved to be ideal for a cozy day in. Turn it into a breakfast burrito by wrapping some up in a flour tortilla.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 3 small russet potatoes, diced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 C mushrooms, chopped
  • 2 Chipotle-flavored Field Roast sausages
  • 1-1/2 C fresh spinach, chopped
  • ½ pkg silken tofu
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast flakes
  • 8-oz vegan pepper jack, or other favorite vegan cheeze, shredded
  • ½ C Tofutti sour cream
  • ¾ C almond milk
  • ¼ to ⅓ C panko bread crumbs
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly spray a 13"x9" baking pan with cooking spray; set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add all of the potatoes. Cook, covered, on medium heat for 15 minutes, or until they just begin to soften (stir them often).
  2. Add the bell pepper and Field Roast; cook another 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the tofu, cheeze, sour cream, nutritional yeast, and almond milk. Stir in the spinach.
  3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften, 2-3 minutes.
  4. Then combine the potato mixture to the tofu mixture and stir well to combine. Pour mixture in the pan and top with the panko.
  5. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake another 5 minutes. Let sit a few minutes, then dig in and enjoy!
3.5.3208

Filed Under: Breakfasts Tagged With: bake, bell pepper, brunch, casserole, comfort food, easy, Field Roast, mushrooms, potatoes, Sweet potatoes, tofu, veggie bake

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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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