Epicurean Vegan

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Vegan Deep Dish Pizza

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Vegan Deep Dish Pizza -- Epicurean VeganThere are certainly more than one way to make pizza—this one in a 9×13″ baking dish, plus you can use whatever pizza toppings you want. I used Pillsbury’s pizza crust, and yes, I know . . . even though it’s vegan, it’s not the healthiest food, but it’s definitely not a staple at our house and it worked perfect for this meal. Whichever crust you decide to use, you’ll enjoy this deep dish classic!

Vegan Deep Dish Pizza -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
1 Pillsbury Pizza Crust
1 Tbs olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, cut into thin strips, then cut in half
2 small zucchini, sliced thin
2 C mushrooms, sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
28-oz can diced tomatoes, with juices
24 slices of veggie pepperoni
1 Tbs Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Daiya cheese mozzarella shreds
Optional: 2 Field Roast sausages, Italian flavor, crumbled

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 400. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and then add the garlic; cook 2 minutes. Add the onions and bell pepper and cook 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the zucchini and mushrooms and cook another 5 minutes.

DSC07633Add the can of tomatoes and combine well. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

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Meanwhile, line the bottom of a 9×13″ baking dish with the pizza dough. It doesn’t need to be perfect—as seen by mine . . .

DSC07634Bake for 6-8 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 375. Next, sprinkle a little Daiya cheese on the crust, then spoon the veggie mixture on top of the crust. I left a little bit of an edge all the way around.

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Top with some more Daiya cheese and the veggie pepperoni.

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Bake for 20 minutes. Cut and enjoy!

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Vegan Deep Dish Pizza
 
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There are certainly more than one way to make pizza---this one in a 9x13" baking dish, plus you can use whatever pizza toppings you want. I used Pillsbury's pizza crust, and yes, I know . . . even though it's vegan, it's not the healthiest food, but it's definitely not a staple at our house and it worked perfect for this meal. Whichever crust you decide to use, you'll enjoy this deep dish classic!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 Pillsbury Pizza Crust
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into thin strips, then cut in half
  • 2 small zucchini, sliced thin
  • 2 C mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 28-oz can diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 24 slices of veggie pepperoni
  • 1 Tbs Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Daiya cheese mozzarella shreds
  • Optional: 2 Field Roast sausages, Italian flavor, crumbled
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and then add the garlic; cook 2 minutes. Add the onions and bell pepper and cook 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the zucchini and mushrooms and cook another 5 minutes.
  3. Add the can of tomatoes and combine well. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, line the bottom of a 9x13" baking dish with the pizza dough. It doesn't need to be perfect.
  5. Bake for 6-8 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 375. Next, sprinkle a little Daiya cheese on the crust, then spoon the veggie mixture on top of the crust. I left a little bit of an edge all the way around.
  6. Top with some more Daiya cheese and the veggie pepperoni.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes. Cut and enjoy!

Creamy Wild Rice Soup

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Creamy Wild Rice Soup -- Epicurean VeganColorado weather has been staying true to form, showing us just how schizophrenic it can be in the springtime. We’ve had 70 degree days and suddenly, we’re hitting the 20s and getting snow. Yesterday was one of those bone-chilling days which always makes me want to put on a pot of soup. I love experimenting with soups because it’s so easy. I have to say, this is probably one of my favorites—rich, creamy, and flavorful. I was already told that I need to make it again soon, and the Eighth Grader actually took leftovers to school today for lunch. He never takes leftovers! After a warm up this weekend, we are expected to get some more rain/snow next week, so I just may have to make this again. Darn. 😉

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
2-3 celery stalks, sliced thin
1 medium onion, diced
7 C vegetable broth
1 C wild rice mix (I used Whole Foods 365 Everyday brand)
1 large russet potato, peeled and diced
1 carrot, grated
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
4 Tbs Earth Balance
6 Tbs flour (any variety)
2 C almond milk

Creamy Wild Rice Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

 

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil then add the garlic; cook 1 minute. Add the celery and onions and cook 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.

Creamy Wild Rice Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

Add the broth, rice and bay leaves; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, partially cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes. Add the potatoes and cook another 15 minutes, or until they soften, but are still a little firm. Stir in the carrots and nutritional yeast.

Creamy Wild Rice Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

Meanwhile, to make the roux, melt the Earth Balance in a medium pan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, one tablespoon at a time. You’ll have a thick, batter-like consistency. Slowly add the almond milk—a little at time—and continue to stir until it is all incorporated and thickens. This shouldn’t take more than 8-10 minutes.

Creamy Wild Rice Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

Remove and discard the bay leaves, then slowly pour the roux into the soup and combine well. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and enjoy!

Creamy Wild Rice Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

Creamy Wild Rice Soup
 
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Yesterday was one of those bone-chilling days which always makes me want to put on a pot of soup. I love experimenting with soups because it's so easy. I have to say, this is probably one of my favorites---rich, creamy, and flavorful. I was already told that I need to make it again soon, and the Eighth Grader actually took leftovers to school today for lunch. He never takes leftovers! After a warm up this weekend, we are expected to get some more rain/snow next week, so I just may have to make this again. Darn. 😉
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
  • 2-3 celery stalks, sliced thin
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 7 C vegetable broth
  • 1 C wild rice mix (I used Whole Foods 365 Everyday brand)
  • 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 4 Tbs Earth Balance
  • 6 Tbs flour (any variety)
  • 2 C almond milk
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil then add the garlic; cook 1 minute. Add the celery and onions and cook 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
  2. Add the broth, rice and bay leaves; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, partially cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes. Add the potatoes and cook another 15 minutes, or until they soften, but are still a little firm. Stir in the carrots and nutritional yeast.
  3. Meanwhile, to make the roux, melt the Earth Balance in a medium pan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, one tablespoon at a time. You'll have a thick, batter-like consistency. Slowly add the almond milk---a little at time---and continue to stir until it is all incorporated and thickens. This shouldn't take more than 8-10 minutes.
  4. Remove and discard the bay leaves, then slowly pour the roux into the soup and combine well. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and enjoy!

 

Mock Tuna Salad

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Mock Tuna Salad -- Epicurean Vegan

I never like to spend a lot of time preparing lunch, which can make it difficult to come up with something. Not only is this easy to throw together, but it makes plenty for a few lunches. The recipe is adapted from 1000 Vegan Recipes. If you’re not a fan of garbanzo beans, I suggest trying white beans instead. I also added chopped cashews, but sunflower seeds, chopped almonds, or pepitas would also be great. Cucumber can be subbed in for the celery as well and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast wouldn’t hurt either. Miss the omegas? Toss in some flax seeds! The recipe calls for 1 tsp of kelp powder and of course, the only amount I could buy was a pound. A pound of kelp powder?! Sure! I put that on . . . and . . .What do you use kelp powder for? (besides mock tuna salads)? Well first of all, it helps to know that kelp powder is loaded with health benefits. According to Livestrong.com it helps lower LDL cholesterol, lowers breast cancer risk, lowers blood sugar, and is a great source of iodine. After some research, I found it’s great to throw it in  your smoothie, sprinkle it on your veggie sushi rice, add it to bread dough, and even use it as a seasoning—in place of salt. What do you use kelp powder for? 

Organic Kelp Powder -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
2 cans garbanzo or white beans
2 stalks celery or 1/2 C cucumber, chopped small
1/4 C minced onion
1/2 C cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pepitas, chopped
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
1 tsp capers, drained and chopped
1/2 C Vegenaise (or other vegan mayo)
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp kelp powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
8 slices of bread

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium bowl, coarsely mash the beans, or chopped them up on a cutting board. Add the celery (or cucumber), onions, nuts, capers, mayo, lemon juice, mustard, nutritional yeast, and kelp powder. Season with salt and pepper if you’d like. Combine thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Serve on bread with the lettuce and tomato and enjoy!

Mock Tuna Salad
 
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The recipe is adapted from 1000 Vegan Recipes. If you're not a fan of garbanzo beans, I suggest trying white beans instead. I also added chopped cashews, but sunflower seeds, chopped almonds, or pepitas would also be great. Cucumber can be subbed in for the celery as well and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast wouldn't hurt either. Miss the omegas? Toss in some flax seeds! The recipe calls for 1 tsp of kelp powder and of course, the only amount I could buy was a pound. A pound of kelp powder?! Sure! I put that on . . . and . . .What do you use kelp powder for? (besides mock tuna salads)? Well first of all, it helps to know that kelp powder is loaded with health benefits. According to Livestrong.com it helps lower LDL cholesterol, lowers breast cancer risk, lowers blood sugar, and is a great source of iodine. After some research, I found it's great to throw it in your smoothie, sprinkle it on your veggie sushi rice, add it to bread dough, and even use it as a seasoning---in place of salt.
Author:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 2 cans garbanzo or white beans
  • 2 stalks celery or ½ C cucumber, chopped small
  • ¼ C minced onion
  • ½ C cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pepitas, chopped
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp capers, drained and chopped
  • ½ C Vegenaise (or other vegan mayo)
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp kelp powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • 8 slices of bread
Directions
  1. In a medium bowl, coarsely mash the beans, or chopped them up on a cutting board.
  2. Add the celery (or cucumber), onions, nuts, capers, mayo, lemon juice, mustard, nutritional yeast, and kelp powder. Season with salt and pepper if you'd like. Combine thoroughly.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  4. Serve on bread with the lettuce and tomato and enjoy!

 

Gluten-Free Burrito Bowls with Avocado-Lime Rice

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Gluten-Free Burrito Bowls with Avocado-Lime Rice -- Epicurean VeganThis is my new favorite versatile meal. I saw this recipe for the avocado rice, where they also suggested making burrito bowls using it. Obviously, I wasn’t keen on their meat and dairy version, so I made my own, healthier ones. I also made some changes to the rice recipe by using this awesome rice from Lundberg. The guys tend to be white rice kind of men, but there were no complaints! It’s a blend of sweet brown rice, short grain brown rice, long grain brown rice, whole grain Wehani (brand) rice, whole grain black Japonica (brand) rice.

Lundberg Rice And I have to mention the quite ingenious Velcro re-closeable bag!

DSC07545This is such a fresh, simple, and healthy meal where everyone in the family can create their own with their favorite fresh ingredients. Now, my new favorite ingredient . . . is this tri-bean blend. Organic and on sale for $1 a can! Love these. Packed with protein and fiber.

Tri-Bean BlendSo, on to the recipe!

INGREDIENTS: (Makes 6 bowls)
Rice:
3-1/2 C water
2 C Lundberg Jubilee rice
2 avocados, mashed
1/2 C cilantro, chopped
zest and juice from one lime
The beans:
3 cans tri-bean blend (black bean, pinto, and kidney)
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp Ancho Chili pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 C water
The rest (toppings):
Green onion, sliced
Tomato, diced
Daiya cheese
Sour cream
Lettuce, chopped
Salsa
Corn tortilla crunchies/chips

DIRECTIONS:
The rice will take 35-40 minutes, so you’ll want to get that started first. Bring the 3-1/2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, stir, cover, and reduce heat to low. Check after 30 minutes.

DSC07551Meanwhile, in a small to medium saucepan, add the beans, seasonings, and water. Heat on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

DSC07549When the rice is done, stir in the mashed avocados, cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice.

DSC07552Fill a bowl with about 1 to 1-1/2 cups of the avocado rice . . .

Avocado-Lime Rice -- Epicurean Vegan . . . layer on some beans and toppings and enjoy!

Gluten-Free Burrito Bowls with Avocado-Lime Bowls

Gluten-Free Burrito Bowls with Avocado-Lime Rice
 
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Author:
Serves: 3
Ingredients
  • Rice:
  • 3-1/2 C water
  • 2 C Lundberg Jubilee rice
  • 2 avocados, mashed
  • ½ C cilantro, chopped
  • zest and juice from one lime
  • The beans:
  • 3 cans tri-bean blend (black bean, pinto, and kidney)
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp Ancho Chili pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ⅓ C water
  • The rest (toppings):
  • Green onion, sliced
  • Tomato, diced
  • Daiya cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Lettuce, chopped
  • Salsa
  • Corn tortilla crunchies/chips
Directions
  1. The rice will take 35-40 minutes, so you'll want to get that started first. Bring the 3-1/2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, stir, cover, and reduce heat to low. Check after 30 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, in a small to medium saucepan, add the beans, seasonings, and water. Heat on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  3. When the rice is done, stir in the mashed avocados, cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice.
  4. Fill a bowl with about 1 to 1-1/2 cups of the avocado rice and layer on some beans and toppings and enjoy!

Roman Pasta Soup with Potatoes

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Roman Pasta Soup with Potatoes -- Epicurean VeganThis is definitely a carb-lover’s soup! You certainly don’t have to use pasta and potatoes, but I think they work really well together in this soup. I used to make this soup a lot about ten or twelve years ago, but sort of forgot about it, especially since it used real bacon, but like most meat dishes, this one is easy to veganize. It’s incredibly easy to make and versatile, too. I think some chopped kale or mushrooms would be great additions.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 veggie bacon slices, diced
1 large onion, chopped
1/3 C fresh parsley, chopped
8-9 C vegetable broth
3 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
2 C pasta shells, uncooked
Black pepper, to taste
Daiya mozzarella

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the onions and veggie bacon and cook 5 minutes. Stir in the parsley and cook another 2 minutes. Add the potatoes and broth and cook over medium heat about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are slightly tender. Add the pasta and cook 10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through. Season with black pepper and serve with Daiya cheese on top. Enjoy!

Roman Pasta Soup with Potatoes
 
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This is definitely a carb-lover's soup! You certainly don't have to use pasta and potatoes, but I think they work really well together in this soup. I used to make this soup a lot about ten or twelve years ago, but sort of forgot about it, especially since it used real bacon, but like most meat dishes, this one is easy to veganize. It's incredibly easy to make and versatile, too. I think some chopped kale or mushrooms would be great additions.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 veggie bacon slices, diced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • ⅓ C fresh parsley, chopped
  • 8-9 C vegetable broth
  • 3 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 C pasta shells, uncooked
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Daiya mozzarella
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the onions and veggie bacon and cook 5 minutes. Stir in the parsley and cook another 2 minutes. Add the potatoes and broth and cook over medium heat about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are slightly tender. Add the pasta and cook 10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through. Season with black pepper and serve with Daiya cheese on top. Enjoy!

 

Field Roast and Avocado Burritos

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Field Roast and Avocado Burritos -- Epicurean VeganYikes, it’s been a while. I have so many new recipes on my list to make, but I’ve been so busy with various different projects, that throwing together a simple favorite has been all I’ve had time for. I’ll get back into the swing of things. I can’t tell you how happy I am to be emerging from the cold and depressing days of winter! We even got our garden started this weekend. (I’ll be bringing you Garden Watch soon). In the meantime, here’s a fast and simple meal that is ready in less than 30 minutes.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs chipotle-flavored olive oil (or regular)
1/2 C yellow or white onion, chopped
1/2 C red onion, chopped
4 Field Roast Sausages, Italian Seasoning flavor, crumbled
2 avocados, peeled, pitted and sliced
4 Flour tortillas
Other (optional) burrito fillings: vegan sour cream, salsa, cilantro, diced tomatoes, Daiya cheese

 

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DIRECTIONS:
Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the onions. Cook 5-7 minutes, or until they soften. Add the Field Roast and cook over medium heat until heated through, again, for 5-7 minutes.

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On a warmed tortilla, layer on some sour cream, Field Roast mixture, avocados, and any other burrito fillings you want. Roll up and enjoy! (See, I told you it was easy)!

Field Roast and Avocado Burritos -- Epicurean Vegan

Field Roast and Avocado Burritos
 
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Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs chipotle-flavored olive oil (or regular)
  • ½ C yellow or white onion, chopped
  • ½ C red onion, chopped
  • 4 Field Roast Sausages, Italian Seasoning flavor, crumbled
  • 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and sliced
  • 4 Flour tortillas
  • Other (optional) burrito fillings: vegan sour cream, salsa, cilantro, diced tomatoes, Daiya cheese
Directions
  1. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the onions. Cook 5-7 minutes, or until they soften. Add the Field Roast and cook over medium heat until heated through, again, for 5-7 minutes.
  2. On a warmed tortilla, layer on some sour cream, Field Roast mixture, avocados, and any other burrito fillings you want. Roll up and enjoy!

 

Creamy Baked Potato Soup

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Creamy Baked Potato Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

I saw this recipe on Lunch Box Bunch and it looked delicious. Potatoes are a staple around our house and with these snowy days, it foot the bill nicely. I made some changes to it so this is an adaptation of the original. Absolutely delicious and full of flavor—a keeper for sure. It was very simple to throw together as well and dinner was ready in less than an hour. Makes about 7-8 cups.

INGREDIENTS:
Soup:
1/2 C almonds, blanched (boil in water for 1-2 minutes, drain, rinse and remove and discard skins)
3 C vegetable broth
2-3 large (4 C) russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/3 C nutritional yeast
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2-3 dashes cayenne
Fresh chives, chopped
Garnish:
2 russet potatoes (2 C), diced peeling them is optional
1/2 C nutritional yeast
2-3 Tbs olive oil + 1 Tbs for sauteing
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 C onion, chopped
5-6 slices veggie bacon
4 green onions (white and green parts), sliced


DIRECTIONS:
Begin by making the garnish. Preheat oven to 400. In a medium bowl, combine the potatoes, nutritional yeast, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Creamy Baked Potato Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

Layer the potatoes on a greased baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, but check often. Roast until tender. Remove from oven and set aside.

Creamy Baked Potato Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

Meanwhile, boil the four cups of potatoes until tender. And while those cook . . . saute the onions and veggie bacon in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Set aside along with the green onions.

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Using a blender or food processor, grind the almonds. Add the nutritional yeast, broth, pepper, salt, garlic, and cayenne. Once the potatoes are done, drain and add them to the blender. Puree 1-2 minutes, or until completely smooth. (You can add the broth little by little in case you want it thicker). Transfer back to pan (that you used to boil the potatoes in) and heat over low to medium heat; stir often until heated through. Top each serving with some potatoes, veg bacon/onion mix and green onions. (Some chopped chives would also be great.) Enjoy!

Creamy Baked Potato Soup
 
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I saw this recipe on Lunch Box Bunch and it looked delicious. Potatoes are a staple around our house and with these snowy days, it foot the bill nicely. I made some changes to it so this is an adaptation of the original. Absolutely delicious and full of flavor---a keeper for sure. It was very simple to throw together as well and dinner was ready in less than an hour. Makes about 7-8 cups.
Author:
Ingredients
  • Soup:
  • ½ C almonds, blanched (boil in water for 1-2 minutes, drain, rinse and remove and discard skins)
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 2-3 large (4 C) russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2-3 dashes cayenne
  • Fresh chives, chopped
  • Garnish:
  • 2 russet potatoes (2 C), diced peeling them is optional
  • ½ C nutritional yeast
  • 2-3 Tbs olive oil + 1 Tbs for sauteing
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ C onion, chopped
  • 5-6 slices veggie bacon
  • 4 green onions (white and green parts), sliced
Directions
  1. Begin by making the garnish. Preheat oven to 400.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the potatoes, nutritional yeast, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Layer the potatoes on a greased baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, but check often. Roast until tender. Remove from oven and set aside.
  4. Meanwhile, boil the four cups of potatoes until tender. And while those cook . . . saute the onions and veggie bacon in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Set aside along with the green onions.
  5. Using a blender or food processor, grind the almonds. Add the nutritional yeast, broth, pepper, salt, garlic, and cayenne.
  6. Once the potatoes are done, drain and add them to the blender. Puree 1-2 minutes, or until completely smooth. (You can add the broth little by little in case you want it thicker). Transfer back to pan (that you used to boil the potatoes in) and heat over low to medium heat; stir often until heated through.
  7. Top each serving with some potatoes, veg bacon/onion mix and green onions. (Some chopped chives would also be great.) Enjoy!

 

Cherry-Zucchini Bread

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Cherry Zucchini Bread -- Epicurean Vegan

Sorry for my absence. We were all hit with a pretty nasty cold and it’s taken a couple of weeks to return to normal. The break did, however, give me way too much time to veg out and thanks to Hulu and PBS, I watched all three seasons of Downton Abbey. (If they keep killing off beloved characters, I’m going to have to stop watching; my heart can’t take it.) Anyway, I’m back in the kitchen and it feels great. We spent the afternoon with our friends (both human and animal) at Beakon Hill Farm and Education Center. Their newest residents are a trio of adorable lambs. They took them in when they were just less than 24 hours old and have been bottle-feeding them for weeks. Randy and Teresa are such amazing people and are working toward making Beakon Hill a non-profit. It is home to some of the most wonderful animals: goats, horses, alpacas, hens, roosters, ducks, and many more.

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The Eighth Grader bottle-feeding one of the lambs

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Shiro’s just like a puppy, but with horns. His latest game is to push against you with his head.

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 Zee Man liked to follow us around as we shoveled poop from the pens . . .

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So I figured I’d bring along this amazing bread to share (with the humans) of Beakon Hill. The recipe is adapted from Hell Yeah it’s Vegan, because I made a few changes and added some ingredients. That’s the beauty of making two loaves; share the love!

INGREDIENTS: (Makes 2 loaves)
4-1/2 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer
1/2 C warm water
1-1/4 C brown sugar
1/2 C applesauce
1/2 C canola oil
1 tsp vanilla
2 C zucchini, grated
2 C flour
1 C whole wheat flour
1 Tbs baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 Tbs cinnamon
2 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp salt
1 C dried cherries
1/8 C chia seeds (optional . . . I was out of them, but I would have definitely put them in if I had any)!

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. Grease two 8x4x2″ loaf pans and set aside. In a large bowl, mix together the egg replacer and warm water. Add the brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla and applesauce. I don’t usually keep applesauce on hand, but we definitely have plenty of apples, so I just pureed two apples in the food processor.

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Add the zucchini and blend until smooth. In a medium bowl, combine the flours, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and chia seeds (if using). Little by little, add the dry ingredients to the batter.

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Fold in the dried cherries. Divide the dough between the two loaf pans.

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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until done in the middle (check using a toothpick or knife).

Cherry Zucchini Bread -- Epicurean Vegan

Let them cool on a rack and lay a piece of foil loosely over the top to keep in the moisture while they cool. Slice and enjoy!

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Me holding Worf, the rooster.

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Cherry-Zucchini Bread
 
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The recipe is adapted from Hell Yeah it's Vegan, because I made a few changes and added some ingredients. That's the beauty of making two loaves; share the love!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 4-1/2 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer
  • ½ C warm water
  • 1-1/4 C brown sugar
  • ½ C applesauce
  • ½ C canola oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 C zucchini, grated
  • 2 C flour
  • 1 C whole wheat flour
  • 1 Tbs baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 Tbs cinnamon
  • 2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 C dried cherries
  • ⅛ C chia seeds (optional . . . I was out of them, but I would have definitely put them in if I had any)!
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350.
  2. Grease two 8x4x2" loaf pans and set aside. In a large bowl, mix together the egg replacer and warm water. Add the brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla and applesauce. I don't usually keep applesauce on hand, but we definitely have plenty of apples, so I just pureed two apples in the food processor.
  3. Add the zucchini and blend until smooth. In a medium bowl, combine the flours, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and chia seeds (if using). Little by little, add the dry ingredients to the batter.
  4. Fold in the dried cherries. Divide the dough between the two loaf pans.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until done in the middle (check using a toothpick or knife).
  6. Let them cool on a rack and lay a piece of foil loosely over the top to keep in the moisture while they cool. Slice and enjoy!

Macadamia Nut Cheese

by

Macadamia Nut Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan

I was immediately smitten when I saw this recipe for macadamia nut “goat cheese” over at The Holy Kale. I haven’t met many nut cheeses I didn’t like, and this one looked too delicious not to try. I followed the recipe as it was written, but when I tasted it, I found into be incredibly bland. After all, there wasn’t any seasonings besides the tarragon it was rolled in. . . I took matters into my own hands because I sure the heck wasn’t going to waste the $7 I spent on two cups of macadamia nuts! A little salt, lemon juice, olive oil, and agave saved the day . . . and the cheese! Other than the texture, I don’t think this resembles goat cheese, but that doesn’t mean it’s not tasty–it most certainly is!

INGREDIENTS:
2 C macadamia nuts (I used unsalted), soaked for 24 hours in water
1 cap veggie Probiotic
1/2 C water
2-3 Tbs lemon juice
2 Tbs olive oil
1 tsp, or to taste, salt
1-2 Tbs agave
2-3 Tbs fresh tarragon, chopped

DIRECTIONS:
After soaking the nuts, drain and transfer to a food processor along with 1/2 a cup of fresh water and the contents of the probiotic capsule. Blend until smooth (you will probably need to periodically scrape the sides).

Macadamia Nut Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan

Wrap in a cotton napkin or a few layers of cheese cloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

Macadamia Nut Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan

Keep wrapped in the cloth and place into a bowl. Do not seal the bowl.

DSC07262

Let it sit for 2 days on the counter and ferment. Unwrap . . .

Macadamia Nut Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan

. . . and transfer to a bowl. Using a fork, blend in the lemon juice, salt, and oil. Taste and adjust seasonings/flavorings if need be. Wrap the cheese in plastic wrap, shaping into a log.

Macadamia Nut Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan

Refrigerate for several hours to overnight to allow the flavors to meet and mingle. The longer you let it percolate the better! Spread the chopped tarragon on a cutting board and roll the log over it. Drizzle with agave and serve with crackers. This would also be excellent crumbled over a salad. Delicious and worth the long process! Enjoy!

Macadamia Nut Cheese -- Epicurean Vegan

Macadamia Nut Cheese
 
Print
I was immediately smitten when I saw this recipe for macadamia nut "goat cheese" over at The Holy Kale. I haven't met many nut cheeses I didn't like, and this one looked too delicious not to try. I followed the recipe as it was written, but when I tasted it, I found into be incredibly bland. After all, there wasn't any seasonings besides the tarragon it was rolled in. . . I took matters into my own hands because I sure the heck wasn't going to waste the $7 I spent on two cups of macadamia nuts! A little salt, lemon juice, olive oil, and agave saved the day . . . and the cheese! Other than the texture, I don't think this resembles goat cheese, but that doesn't mean it's not tasty--it most certainly is!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 2 C macadamia nuts (I used unsalted), soaked for 24 hours in water
  • 1 cap veggie Probiotic
  • ½ C water
  • 2-3 Tbs lemon juice
  • 2 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 tsp, or to taste, salt
  • 1-2 Tbs agave
  • 2-3 Tbs fresh tarragon, chopped
Directions
  1. After soaking the nuts, drain and transfer to a food processor along with ½ a cup of fresh water and the contents of the probiotic capsule. Blend until smooth (you will probably need to periodically scrape the sides).
  2. Wrap in a cotton napkin or a few layers of cheese cloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
  3. Keep wrapped in the cloth and place into a bowl. Do not seal the bowl.
  4. Let it sit for 2 days on the counter and ferment. Unwrap and transfer to a bowl. Using a fork, blend in the lemon juice, salt, and oil. Taste and adjust seasonings/flavorings if need be. Wrap the cheese in plastic wrap, shaping into a log.
  5. Refrigerate for several hours to overnight to allow the flavors to meet and mingle. The longer you let it percolate the better! Spread the chopped tarragon on a cutting board and roll the log over it. Drizzle with agave and serve with crackers. This would also be excellent crumbled over a salad. Delicious and worth the long process! Enjoy!

Roasted Mushroom and Garlic Soup with Caramelized Onions

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Roasted Mushroom & Garlic Soup with Caramelized OnionsI found this recipe on She Wears Many Hats, and knew it was right up my alley. I love mushrooms and it also has white beans, so I was hooked. I wasn’t expecting to change it up, but I ended up deviating off the recipe a little. It turned out fabulous; full of flavor! Not only that, it was pretty easy to make. The only thing that takes a while is caramelizing the onions, so I recommend allowing about 30-45 minutes for that—but well worth it!

INGREDIENTS:
6 C white and cremini mushrooms, quartered
3 – 15 oz cans white beans, not drained
5-6 large cloves of garlic, skins on
2 Tbs olive oil + a drizzle
Salt and pepper, to taste
8-10 fresh sage leaves
8-10 thyme sprigs + 1 Tbs fresh leaves
5 C vegetable stock (I recommend using Better Than Bouillon)
2 Tbs dried minced onions
Caramelized onions:
1 large white or yellow onion, sliced into strips
2 Tbs olive oil
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
1 Tbs sugar

DIRECTIONS:
Begin with the onions. Combine the onions and olive oil and add to a medium skillet. Saute over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they begin to brown. Add the balsamic vinegar and cook another 15 minutes; stirring often. Stir in the sugar and continue to saute until the onions are almost black and sticking to the skillet.

DSC07272

Reduce heat to low. Of course, while you’re doing all of this, you’ll need to start the soup . . . Preheat oven to 450. Coat the mushrooms with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a large baking pan. Add the sage and thyme sprigs. To prepare the garlic, place the cloves in the middle of a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil and wrap up tightly; place onto the baking sheet.

DSC07266

Bake/roast for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, add the broth, beans, salt, pepper (to taste), and the tablespoon of thyme to a large soup pot; bring to a simmer. Stir the mushrooms in the oven and roast another 10 minutes.

DSC07269

Remove the thyme sprigs and discard. Gather the sage leaves and set aside. Transfer one cup of the soup broth to a blender, along with 2 cups of drained beans. Toss in the sage leaves and the two tablespoons of minced onion, along with the garlic (the skins should slide right off). Puree until smooth. Add the mushrooms to the soup and stir in the puree; season with salt and pepper if you’d like then bring to a simmer.

DSC07271

Serve with some caramelized onions on top and enjoy!

Roasted Mushroom and Garlic Soup with Caramelized Onions
 
Print
I found this recipe on She Wears Many Hats, and knew it was right up my alley. I love mushrooms and it also has white beans, so I was hooked. I wasn't expecting to change it up, but I ended up deviating off the recipe a little. It turned out fabulous; full of flavor! Not only that, it was pretty easy to make. The only thing that takes a while is caramelizing the onions, so I recommend allowing about 30-45 minutes for that---but well worth it!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 6 C white and cremini mushrooms, quartered
  • 3 - 15 oz cans white beans, not drained
  • 5-6 large cloves of garlic, skins on
  • 2 Tbs olive oil + a drizzle
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8-10 fresh sage leaves
  • 8-10 thyme sprigs + 1 Tbs fresh leaves
  • 5 C vegetable stock (I recommend using Better Than Bouillon)
  • 2 Tbs dried minced onions
  • Caramelized onions:
  • 1 large white or yellow onion, sliced into strips
  • 2 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
  • 1 Tbs sugar
Directions
  1. Begin with the onions. Combine the onions and olive oil and add to a medium skillet. Saute over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they begin to brown. Add the balsamic vinegar and cook another 15 minutes; stirring often. Stir in the sugar and continue to saute until the onions are almost black and sticking to the skillet.
  2. Reduce heat to low. Of course, while you're doing all of this, you'll need to start the soup . . . Preheat oven to 450. Coat the mushrooms with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a large baking pan. Add the sage and thyme sprigs. To prepare the garlic, place the cloves in the middle of a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil and wrap up tightly; place onto the baking sheet.
  3. Bake/roast for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, add the broth, beans, salt, pepper (to taste), and the tablespoon of thyme to a large soup pot; bring to a simmer. Stir the mushrooms in the oven and roast another 10 minutes.
  4. Remove the thyme sprigs and discard. Gather the sage leaves and set aside. Transfer one cup of the soup broth to a blender, along with 2 cups of drained beans. Toss in the sage leaves and the two tablespoons of minced onion, along with the garlic (the skins should slide right off). Puree until smooth. Add the mushrooms to the soup and stir in the puree; season with salt and pepper if you'd like then bring to a simmer.
  5. Serve with some caramelized onions on top and enjoy!

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