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Portobello Tetrazzini Soup

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Portobello Tetrazzini Soup - Epicurean Vegan

Oh how I love soup season! I also love mushrooms, so portobellos are perfect for creating a hearty, satisfying soup. Meat-schmeat! Who needs it?! Because it’s just the two of us these days, I made a small batch (serves 3), but you could easily double this recipe to feed a larger crew. This soup has lots of savory flavor and is ready in about 30 minutes.

INGREDIENTS:
2 Tbs vegan margarine
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 C diced onion
5 portobello mushroom caps, cut into cubes
4 C vegetable broth
1/2 C red wine
4-oz spaghetti, broken in half (I used quinoa pasta to keep it gluten-free)
1 C frozen peas
1/2 tsp dried lemon peel
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 C non-dairy half and half, unsweetened (I recommend almond or soy; not coconut)
1 C chopped parsley
Vegan Parmesan (I like Follow Your Heart brand shredded Parmesan)

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, melt the vegan margarine and add the garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, then add the portobellos. It may seem like a lot at first, but they will cook down. Add the vegetable broth and wine. Bring to a boil and add the pasta; cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add the peas, salt, pepper, lemon peel, and thyme and cook another 5 minutes. Stir in the half and half and parsley and heat. Top individual servings with Parmesan and enjoy!

Portobello Tetrazzini Soup
 
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Oh how I love soup season! I also love mushrooms, so portobellos are perfect for creating a hearty, satisfying soup. Meat-schmeat! Because it's just the two of us these days, I made a small batch (serves 3), but you would easily double this recipe to feed a larger crew. This soup has lots of savory flavor and is ready in just over 30 minutes.
Author:
Serves: 3
Ingredients
  • 2 Tbs vegan margarine
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 C diced onion
  • 5 portobello mushroom caps, cut into cubes
  • 4 C vegetable broth
  • ½ C red wine
  • 4-oz spaghetti, broken in half (I used quinoa pasta to keep it gluten-free)
  • 1 C frozen peas
  • ½ tsp dried lemon peel
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ½ C non-dairy half and half, unsweetened (I recommend almond or soy; not coconut)
  • 1 C chopped parsley
  • Vegan Parmesan (I like Follow Your Heart brand shredded Parmesan)
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, melt the vegan margarine and add the garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, then add the portobellos. It may seem like a lot at first, but they will cook down.
  3. Add the vegetable broth and wine. Bring to a boil and add the pasta; cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the peas, salt, pepper, lemon peel, and thyme and cook another 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the half and half and parsley and heat.
  6. Top individual servings with Parmesan and enjoy!

 

 

Creamy Mushroom & Spinach Soup

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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
 
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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:
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!

 

Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy

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Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

No, it’s not Thanksgiving yet, but who says you have to wait until then for a savory loaf like this? I’ve made this Lentil Loaf a couple of times and because I had a leftover puff pastry sheet from the previous recipe, this meal came together beautifully.
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean VeganINGREDIENTS:
1 Field Roast Celebration Loaf, cut into small cubes
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 Tbs olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
Flour
2 Tbs almond milk
Gravy
1/2 C flour
2 Tbs vegan margarine
3 C vegetable broth
2 Tbs miso, any variety
3 Tbs water
2 Tbs tamari or soy sauce
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp thyme

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 1-2 minutes over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are softened.
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

Add the Field Roast and cook another 5-8 minutes, or until the Field Roast begins to brown.
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a large rectangle. Cut diagonal strips on each side:
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

Scoop the Field Roast mixture into the center of the puff pastry:
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

Wrap the loaf, alternating sides (I didn’t do a very pretty job, but you get the idea):
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean VeganIt’s a mummy loaf!
Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the loaf with almond milk and bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown.
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

To make the gravy, melt the vegan margarine in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour, then slowly whisk in the broth, about a cup at a time. Combine the miso with the water and add it to the saucepan. Add the tamari, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Whisk it over low heat as it thickens.
Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy -- Epicurean VeganServe slices of the loaf topped with gravy. Enjoy!

Savory Field Roast Loaf with Gravy
 
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No, it's not Thanksgiving yet, but who says you have to wait until then for a savory loaf like this? I've made this Lentil Loaf a couple of times and because I had a leftover puff pastry sheet from the previous recipe, this meal came together beautifully.
Author:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 Field Roast Celebration Loaf, cut into small cubes
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
  • Flour
  • 2 Tbs almond milk
  • Gravy
  • ½ C flour
  • 2 Tbs vegan margarine
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 2 Tbs miso, any variety
  • 3 Tbs water
  • 2 Tbs tamari or soy sauce
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp thyme
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 400. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 1-2 minutes over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are softened.
  2. Add the Field Roast and cook another 5-8 minutes, or until the Field Roast begins to brown.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a large rectangle. Cut diagonal strips on each side.
  4. Scoop the Field Roast mixture into the center of the puff pastry.
  5. Wrap the loaf, alternating sides.
  6. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the loaf with almond milk and bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown.
  7. To make the gravy, melt the vegan margarine in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour, then slowly whisk in the broth, about a cup at a time. Combine the miso with the water and add it to the saucepan. Add the tamari, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Whisk it over low heat as it thickens.
  8. Serve slices of the loaf topped with gravy. Enjoy!

 

Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy

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Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

We’re not messing around here over at EV headquarters. No, this may not be your typical springtime dish, but does that matter? It’s vegan; it’s savory; it’s divine. You won’t be disappointed. I’ll be clear: these won’t taste like mashed potatoes, but who said mashed cauliflower isn’t fan-freakin-tastic? Lumpy, smooth; you decide. And if you’re feeling sassy, you can even add some vegan sour cream. What are you waiting for?

INGREDIENTS:
Gravy
Half a medium onion, chopped
2-3 garlic cloves
2 Tbs vegan margarine
2 Tbs arrowroot or flour
1/2 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp thyme
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 C white wine
2 C vegetable broth
1 Tbs tamari
2 C sliced mushrooms
The rest
Florets from one large head of cauliflower
1/4 C nutritional yeast
1/8-1/4 C unsweetened almond milk
1 Tbs vegan margarine
1/3 C chives, chopped
Salt and pepper
A scoop or two of sour cream (optional)

DIRECTIONS:
Place the cauliflower in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and lower heat to a simmer. Let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is softened. (You can be making the gravy during this time, but I’ll give you direction to make the mashed cauliflower, then the gravy.) Drain and return to the pan. Add the margarine and almond milk and using a hand blender, puree the cauliflower to a desired consistency. I happen to like lumps in my mashed potatoes, so I went with the same for the cauliflower.
Mashed Cauliflower -- Epicurean Vegan

Stir in the nutritional yeast and chives (and sour cream, if using).
Mashed Cauliflower -- Epicurean VeganCover and keep warm over low heat; stir occasionally.
Mashed Cauliflower with Chives -- Epicurean VeganNow, onto the gravy. Add the onion and garlic cloves to a food processor, and mince.
Mashed Cauliflower and Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean VeganTransfer to a medium saucepan along with the margarine. Saute over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add the arrowroot, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper. Stir in the white wine and cook 1 minute.

Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

Next, add the broth, but only about a 1/4 cup at a time; stir with a whisk until it thickens, then add more broth. Add the mushrooms and let simmer for 5 minutes or so, or until the mushrooms cook down a little.
Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean VeganBoom, baby! You are ready to scoop and ladle. Enjoy!
Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy
 
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Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
We're not messing around here over at EV headquarters. No, this may not be your typical springtime dish, but does that matter? It's vegan; it's savory; it's divine. You won't be disappointed. I'll be clear: these won't taste like mashed potatoes, but who said mashed cauliflower isn't fan-freakin-tastic? Lumpy, smooth; you decide. And if you're feeling sassy, you can even add some vegan sour cream. What are you waiting for?
Author:
Serves: 3-4
Ingredients
  • Gravy
  • Half a medium onion, chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves
  • 2 Tbs vegan margarine
  • 2 Tbs arrowroot or flour
  • ½ tsp rosemary
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ C white wine
  • 2 C vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbs tamari
  • 2 C sliced mushrooms
  • The rest
  • Florets from one large head of cauliflower
  • ¼ C nutritional yeast
  • ⅛-1/4 C unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 Tbs vegan margarine
  • ⅓ C chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper
  • A scoop or two of sour cream (optional)
Directions
  1. Place the cauliflower in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and lower heat to a simmer. Let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is softened. (You can be making the gravy during this time, but I'll give you direction to make the mashed cauliflower, then the gravy.)
  2. Drain and return to the pan. Add the margarine and almond milk and using a hand blender, puree the cauliflower to a desired consistency. I happen to like lumps in my mashed potatoes, so I went with the same for the cauliflower.Stir in the nutritional yeast and chives.Cover and keep warm over low heat; stir occasionally.
  3. For the gravy, add the onion and garlic cloves to a food processor, and mince.
  4. Transfer to a medium saucepan along with the margarine. Saute over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add the arrowroot, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper. Stir in the white wine and cook 1 minute.
  5. Next, add the broth, but only about a ¼ cup at a time; stir with a whisk until it thickens, then add more broth. Add the mushrooms and let simmer for 5 minutes or so, or until the mushrooms cook down a little.
  6. Boom, baby! You are ready to scoop and ladle. Enjoy!

 

Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce

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Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce -- Epicurean VeganThis recipe started out with me going through the refrigerator and trying to decide what I had and how they could go together. At the center: a close-to-expiring tub of tofu. Luckily, we had hit the farmer’s market yesterday, so I had plenty of veggies on hand. The flavors of the breaded tofu and the savory, sage-y sauce, is a beautiful combination. The pine nuts on top are a fabulous addition if you happen to have some on hand.

INGREDIENTS:
Tofu
1 14-oz tub extra firm tofu, cut lengthwise into 6 steaks
1/4 C tamari or soy sauce
1/2 tsp Worcestershire
2 tsp tomato sauce
1 Tbs yellow or red miso
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
1 tsp agave
1 C panko
1/8 C nutritional yeast
Salt and pepper
Sauce
1 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 orange bell pepper, diced
3 Tbs vegan margarine
6 Tbs flour
1/2 C white wine
1 C almond milk
1/2 to 3/4 C vegetable broth
1/2 tsp sage
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 tomatoes, diced
4 C spinach, chopped
The rest
1/4 C pine nuts, toasted

DIRECTIONS:
I recommend having all of your ingredients prepped and ready to go before proceeding; it’ll help out a lot.

Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce -- Epicurean VeganStart with preparing the tofu. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the tamari, tomato paste, miso, Worcestershire sauce, sesame oil and agave. In another shallow bowl, combine the panko, nutritional yeast, salt and pepper. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet and add the garlic and bell pepper over medium heat. While the pepper is cooking, finish preparing the tofu. Coat the tofu steaks in the tamari mixture, then coat well in the panko mixture.
Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce -- Epicurean VeganSpray a grill pan with some olive oil cooking spray and heat over medium. Lay the six tofu steaks in the pan and cook for about 8 minutes per side.
Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce -- Epicurean VeganWhile the tofu is cooking, check the bell pepper. (You should also make sure you’re toasting those pine nuts—just a few minutes in a dry skillet, stirring often.)
20140818_174457Once the bell pepper softens and browns, transfer to a bowl. Using the same skillet, add the vegan margarine and let it melt completely. Whisk in the flour and blend well over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the white wine until the mixture is smooth. Next, add the almond milk, but just a little at a time. The sauce will gradually thicken as you go. (Check the tofu; you may need to turn it by this point.) Once the milk is all incorporated and the sauce is getting thick, add the vegetable broth. I used somewhere between half and three-quarters of a cup. I’d whisk a little in, let it thicken, then added more. I continued to do this until I was happy with the consistency. Season with sage, salt and pepper. Next, I folded in the tomatoes. The liquid from the tomatoes may thin out the sauce a little, but it ought to thicken back up with no problem. Your tofu ought to be finished about this time, so fold the spinach into the sauce.
Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan Serve the tofu with a ladle or two of the sauce on top. Sprinkle with pine nuts and enjoy!
Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Breaded Tofu with a Creamy Spinach, Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce
 
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Cook time
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This recipe started out with me going through the refrigerator and trying to decide what I had and how they could go together. At the center: a close-to-expiring tub of tofu. Luckily, we had hit the farmer's market yesterday, so I had plenty of veggies on hand. The flavors of the breaded tofu and the savory, sage-y sauce, is a beautiful combination. The pine nuts on top are a fabulous addition if you happen to have some on hand.
Author:
Serves: 3-6
Ingredients
  • Tofu
  • .
  • 1 14-oz tub extra firm tofu, cut lengthwise into 6 steaks
  • ¼ C tamari or soy sauce
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire
  • 2 tsp tomato sauce
  • 1 Tbs yellow or red miso
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp agave
  • 1 C panko
  • ⅛ C nutritional yeast
  • Salt and pepper
  • .
  • Sauce
  • .
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 orange bell pepper, diced
  • 3 Tbs vegan margarine
  • 6 Tbs flour
  • ½ C white wine
  • 1 C almond milk
  • ½ to ¾ C vegetable broth
  • ½ tsp sage
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 4 C spinach, chopped
  • .
  • The rest
  • .
  • ¼ C pine nuts, toasted
Directions
  1. I recommend having all of your ingredients prepped and ready to go before proceeding; it'll help out a lot.
  2. Start with preparing the tofu. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the tamari, tomato paste, miso, Worcestershire sauce, sesame oil and agave.
  3. In another shallow bowl, combine the panko, nutritional yeast, salt and pepper.
  4. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet and add the garlic and bell pepper over medium heat. While the pepper is cooking, finish preparing the tofu. Coat the tofu steaks in the tamari mixture, then coat well in the panko mixture.
  5. Spray a grill pan with some olive oil cooking spray and heat over medium. Lay the six tofu steaks in the pan and cook for about 8 minutes per side.
  6. While the tofu is cooking, check the bell pepper. (You should also make sure you're toasting those pine nuts---just a few minutes in a dry skillet, stirring often.)
  7. Once the bell pepper softens and browns, transfer to a bowl.
  8. Using the same skillet, add the vegan margarine and let it melt completely. Whisk in the flour and blend well over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the white wine until the mixture is smooth. Next, add the almond milk, but just a little at a time. The sauce will gradually thicken as you go.
  9. (Check the tofu; you may need to turn it by this point.)
  10. Once the milk is all incorporated and the sauce is getting thick, add the vegetable broth. I used somewhere between half and three-quarters of a cup. I'd whisk a little in, let it thicken, then added more. I continued to do this until I was happy with the consistency. Season with sage, salt and pepper.
  11. Next, I folded in the tomatoes. The liquid from the tomatoes may thin out the sauce a little, but it ought to thicken back up with no problem. Your tofu ought to be finished about this time, so stir in the spinach.
  12. Serve the tofu with a ladle or two of the sauce on top. Sprinkle with pine nuts and enjoy!

 

 

Wild Mushroom & Miso Soup

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Wild Mushroom and Miso Soup -- Epicurean VeganFor mushroom lovers like us, this soup certainly made us very happy. Some friends had brought it to a get together and we all demanded the recipe. It is from The Vegetarian Slow Cooker.  This soup requires just a tad of prep work, but then it all goes into the slow cooker. Not only is this soup savory and full of flavor, but the mushrooms are packed full of immune boosters—perfect for fighting off the winter chills and colds.

INGREDIENTS:
1 (1/2 oz) pkg dried porcini mushrooms (I could only find the 3/4 oz package, which I used all of)
1 C hot water (I added a bit more since I used more mushrooms)
1 Tbs olive oil
2 leeks, (mostly white parts and a little of the green) sliced
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1 stalk celery, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cracked peppercorns (I used ground—didn’t have the peppercorns)
1 bay leaf
8-oz shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded and thinly sliced (I recommend adding more–they cook down quite a bit)
8-oz cremini mushrooms, stems removed and quartered (Again, I’d add more)!
6 C vegetable broth
1 C water
1/4 C miso
Optional: fresh snipped chives

DIRECTIONS:
In a small bowl, combine the dried porcini mushrooms and the hot water. Let sit for 30 minutes. Using a fine mesh strainer, drain the mushrooms, reserving the liquid. Finely chop up the porcinis and set aside. In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the leeks, carrot and celery for about 7 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic, salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, and porchinis. Cook for a minute, then add the reserved liquid.

Wild Mushroom and Miso Soup -- Epicurean VeganTransfer to a slow cooker and add the shiitake and cremini mushrooms, along with the broth and water.

Wild Mushroom and Miso Soup -- Epicurean Vegan

Cover and cook on high for 3 hours OR on low for 6 hours. Stir in the miso and cook on high for 15 minutes. Discard bay leaf and ladle into separate bowls; garnish with chives. Enjoy!

Wild Mushroom & Miso Soup
 
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For mushroom lovers like us, this soup certainly made us very happy. Some friends had brought it to a get together and we all demanded the recipe. It is from The Vegetarian Slow Cooker. This soup requires just a tad of prep work, but then it all goes into the slow cooker. Not only is this soup savory and full of flavor, but the mushrooms are packed full of immune boosters---perfect for fighting off the winter chills and colds.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 (1/2 oz) pkg dried porcini mushrooms (I could only find the ¾ oz package, which I used all of)
  • 1 C hot water (I added a bit more since I used more mushrooms)
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 leeks, (mostly white parts and a little of the green) sliced
  • 1 carrot, peeled and diced
  • 1 stalk celery, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp cracked peppercorns (I used ground---didn't have the peppercorns)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 8-oz shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded and thinly sliced (I recommend adding more--they cook down quite a bit)
  • 8-oz cremini mushrooms, stems removed and quartered (Again, I'd add more)!
  • 6 C vegetable broth
  • 1 C water
  • ¼ C miso
  • Optional: fresh snipped chives
Directions
  1. In a small bowl, combine the dried porcini mushrooms and the hot water. Let sit for 30 minutes. Using a fine mesh strainer, drain the mushrooms, reserving the liquid. Finely chop up the porcinis and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the leeks, carrot and celery for about 7 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic, salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, and porchinis. Cook for a minute, then add the reserved liquid.
  3. Transfer to a slow cooker and add the shiitake and cremini mushrooms, along with the broth and water.
  4. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours OR on low for 6 hours.
  5. Stir in the miso and cook on high for 15 minutes. Discard bay leaf and ladle into separate bowls; garnish with chives. Enjoy!

Layered Polenta Casserole

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Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean VeganThis is how tonight’s post-dinner conversation went between father and son:
        “This is going to be deee-vine for tomorrow’s lunch,” father said as he placed the leftovers in a container.
        “Wait, who said you get them all?” his son said, grabbing hold of the dish.
        “You will lose an arm, son,” father said firmly. 
A wresting match in the kitchen ensued. I don’t know who the victor was; I walked away, but I’m pretty sure I’ll be eating the leftovers for breakfast. Yes, it was that good.

INGREDIENTS:
1 pre-made polenta log (I used the sun-dried tomato & garlic variety), cut into 18 slices
2 C spinach, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
2 C mushrooms, sliced
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/3 C bread crumbs or panko
1/2 C Parmezano Sprinkles (recipe below)
Parmezano Sprinkles: (from the Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook)
1/2 C blanched almonds
2 Tbs nutritional yeast flakes
1-2 tsp light miso
Heaping 1/4 tsp salt
Sauce:
4 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
6 Tbs flour
1 C vegetable broth
1/4 C almond milk
Salt and pepper, to taste

Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 375. To make the Parmezano Sprinkles (which I recommend making ahead of time) combine all of the ingredients in a food processor and process until you have little crumbles . . . then refrigerate.

Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean Vegan Combine the chopped spinach, tomatoes and sliced mushrooms in a bowl along with the basil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean VeganTo prepare the sauce, melt the Earth Balance and add the garlic. Saute about 2 minutes. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Next, add vegetable broth a little at time, whisking constantly until everything is incorporated over medium heat. The sauce should begin to thicken. Slowly add in the almond milk, an 1/8 C at a time and whisk thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper. Add a ladle of sauce to the bottom of an 8″ baking dish—just enough to coat the bottom. Place 9 slices of the polenta on the bottom and sprinkle with about 1/4 C of the Parmezano Sprinkles.

Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean VeganNext, layer on the spinach mixture—pack it down if you have to, but get it all on there. Top with the remaining 9 slices of polenta . . .

Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean Vegan. . . then remaining sauce, the bread crumbs, and another 1/4 C of the Parmezano Sprinkles.

Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean VeganBake for 20-25 minutes. Let it sit for  about 5-6 minutes before digging in. Enjoy!
Layered Polenta Casserole -- Epicurean Vegan

Layered Polenta Casserole
 
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Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 pre-made polenta log (I used the sun-dried tomato & garlic variety), cut into 18 slices
  • 2 C spinach, chopped
  • 1 large tomato, chopped
  • 2 C mushrooms, sliced
  • ½ tsp basil
  • ½ tsp rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ⅓ C bread crumbs or panko
  • ½ C Parmezano Sprinkles (recipe below)
  • Parmezano Sprinkles: (from the Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook)
  • ½ C blanched almonds
  • 2 Tbs nutritional yeast flakes
  • 1-2 tsp light miso
  • Heaping ¼ tsp salt
  • Sauce:
  • 4 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 6 Tbs flour
  • 1 C vegetable broth
  • ¼ C almond milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 375.
  2. To make the Parmezano Sprinkles (which I recommend making ahead of time) combine all of the ingredients in a food processor and process until you have little crumbles . . . then refrigerate.
  3. Combine the chopped spinach, tomatoes and sliced mushrooms in a bowl along with the basil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  4. To prepare the sauce, melt the Earth Balance and add the garlic. Saute about 2 minutes. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Next, add vegetable broth a little at time, whisking constantly until everything is incorporated over medium heat. The sauce should begin to thicken. Slowly add in the almond milk, an ⅛ C at a time and whisk thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add a ladle of sauce to the bottom of an 8" baking dish---just enough to coat the bottom.
  6. Place 9 slices of the polenta on the bottom and sprinkle with about ¼ C of the Parmezano Sprinkles.
  7. Next, layer on the spinach mixture---pack it down if you have to, but get it all on there. Top with the remaining 9 slices of polenta, then remaining sauce, the bread crumbs, and another ¼ C of the Parmezano Sprinkles.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
  9. Let it sit for about 5-6 minutes before digging in. Enjoy!

Polenta Marsala

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Polenta Marsala -- Epicurean VeganIt’s great to be back with a new recipe! I haven’t worked with polenta much, so I decided to take the easy route and use the pre-cooked version.

Polenta Marsala -- Epicurean VeganIt’s great when you don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Having always liked Marsala-anything, I wanted to give it a try with polenta, another new favorite around here. The recipe calls for flour, but feel free to make this meal gluten-free by using another type of flour, such as rice flour. The Husband called this “f***ing brilliant.” Need I say more?

INGREDIENTS:

1-18 oz tube of pre-cooked polenta (I used the basil garlic variety)
1-2 Tbs olive oil
2 C mushrooms, sliced (I recommend cremini or baby portobello)
1/2 C green onion, sliced
3 Tbs Earth Balance
1/4 C flour, any variety
1/2 tsp marjoram
1/4 tsp black pepper
1  to 1-1/4 C vegetable broth
1/4 C Marsala cooking wine

DIRECTIONS:
Slice the polenta into about 18-19 slices.

Polenta Marsala -- Epicurean VeganIn a small bowl, combine the flour, marjoram, and pepper; set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the polenta slices. You may have to do a couple of batches, like I did. Brown the polenta, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

Polenta Marsala -- Epicurean VeganOnce they are all browned, set aside. Wipe out the skillet and add the Earth Balance. After it melts, whisk in the flour mixture. Over medium heat, add the broth and Marsala, little by little, continually whisking until it’s smooth. You may have some extra broth leftover at this point, but hang onto it in case you need to thin the sauce out more later. Add the mushrooms and green onion, and mix together. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mushrooms cook down a little. You may need to add a little more broth to thin the sauce.

Polenta Marsala -- Epicurean VeganAdd the polenta slices to the pan and carefully fold them into the sauce. Simmer on low until the slices are heated through again. Enjoy!

Polenta Marsala
 
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It's great when you don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Having always liked Marsala-anything, I wanted to give it a try with polenta, another new favorite around here. The recipe calls for flour, but feel free to make this meal gluten-free by using another type of flour, such as rice flour. The Husband called this "f***ing brilliant." Need I say more?
Author:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1-18 oz tube of pre-cooked polenta (I used the basil garlic variety)
  • 1-2 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 C mushrooms, sliced (I recommend cremini or baby portobello)
  • ½ C green onion, sliced
  • 3 Tbs Earth Balance
  • ¼ C flour, any variety
  • ½ tsp marjoram
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 to 1-1/4 C vegetable broth
  • ¼ C Marsala cooking wine
Directions
  1. Slice the polenta into about 18-19 slices.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the flour, marjoram, and pepper; set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the polenta slices. You may have to do a couple of batches, like I did. Brown the polenta, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
  3. Once they are all browned, set aside. Wipe out the skillet and add the Earth Balance. After it melts, whisk in the flour mixture. Over medium heat, add the broth and Marsala, little by little, continually whisking until it's smooth. You may have some extra broth leftover at this point, but hang onto it in case you need to thin the sauce out more later. Add the mushrooms and green onion, and mix together. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mushrooms cook down a little. You may need to add a little more broth to thin the sauce.
  4. Add the polenta slices to the pan and carefully fold them into the sauce. Simmer on low until the slices are heated through again. Enjoy!

Savory Asparagus Tart

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Savory Asparagus Tart -- Epicurean VeganWhen I open my own vegan restaurant, this tart will be a signature item on the menu! And look, I’m sharing my secret recipe with all of you now! The Husband was on a conference call when I took this out of the oven and took a bite. You have no idea how difficult it was to not eat his portion; he would have never known. But of course, I couldn’t do that to him—it’s a recipe you’ll want to share and enjoy with others.

INGREDIENTS:
1 puff pastry dough, thawed
1 C Daiya or other vegan cheeze, shredded
1 bunch asparagus
2 Tbs olive oil
1-1/2 tsp truffle oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400. Roll the pastry sheet out to about 11″x7″. Place onto a baking sheet. Using a fork, puncture the dough all over.

Bake for 5 minutes, or until it begins to brown. You may need to press down on the dough with a spoon if it puffed up in places.

Sprinkle the cheese onto the dough, then line the asparagus—close together—on top. I just cut the stalks in half (after cutting of the thick ends) and placed them like so:

Savory Asparagus Tart -- Epicurean Vegan

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, truffle oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture onto the asparagus , thoroughly coating the tops. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges of the tart begin to brown. Remove from the pan (I used two spatulas on either end) and transfer to a large cutting board. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Savory Asparagus Tart -- Epicurean Vegan

Savory Asparagus Tart
 
Print
When I open my own vegan restaurant, this tart will be a signature item on the menu! And look, I'm sharing my secret recipe with all of you now! The Husband was on a conference call when I took this out of the oven and took a bite. You have no idea how difficult it was to not eat his portion; he would have never known. But of course, I couldn't do that to him---it's a recipe you'll want to share and enjoy with others.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 puff pastry dough, thawed
  • 1 C Daiya or other vegan cheeze, shredded
  • 1 bunch asparagus
  • 2 Tbs olive oil
  • 1-1/2 tsp truffle oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 400. Roll the pastry sheet out to about 11"x7". Place onto a baking sheet. Using a fork, puncture the dough all over.
  2. Bake for 5 minutes, or until it begins to brown. You may need to press down on the dough with a spoon if it puffed up in places.
  3. Sprinkle the cheese onto the dough, then line the asparagus---close together---on top. I just cut the stalks in half (after cutting of the thick ends) and placed them in rows on the puff pastry.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, truffle oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture onto the asparagus , thoroughly coating the tops. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges of the tart begin to brown. Remove from the pan (I used two spatulas on either end) and transfer to a large cutting board. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Wild Rice-Stuffed Portobellos

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Vegan MoFo, Day 24

Wild Rice-Stuffed Portobellos -- Epicurean VeganI have been dying to make these for a while now. They did not disappoint. I used about 2 cups of cooked wild rice for five mushrooms, but the recipe makes enough for six. Also, I recommend using vegetable broth when making the rice—keep in mind, the rice will take about 45 minutes to cook. Typically, I steam or slightly saute the mushroom caps before stuffing them, but this time I decided not to—and I’m glad. They came out perfect; not soggy or too soft. When looking for portobellos for this dish, try to pick out ones that are very bowl-shaped. They’ll flatten a little as they bake, so the curvier, the better. (I like that, curves are good)!

INGREDIENTS:
6 portobello mushrooms, stemmed and de-gilled
2 C wild rice, cooked
1 red bell pepper, diced small
3 large green onion, diced
1/2 a can of artichoke hearts, diced small
1 Tbs Earth Balance
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 C vegan mozzarella, shredded
1 Tbs fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 and line a baking sheet with foil; set aside. In a large skillet, heat the margarine and garlic until hot. Add bell pepper, green onions, and artichokes. Saute 3-5 minutes and add rosemary, salt and pepper.

Wild Rice-Stuffed Portobellos -- Epicurean VeganSaute another 5-7 minutes and transfer to a bowl. Add the cooked rice to the bowl and combine the two mixtures.

Wild Rice-Stuffed Portobellos -- Epicurean VeganPlace the portobello caps on the baking sheet—upside down. Sprinkle some vegan mozzarella inside the caps, then spoon the rice mixture into each cap evenly.You can season with some more salt and pepper, if you’d like.

Wild Rice-Stuffed Portobellos -- Epicurean VeganTop with remaining cheese and bake, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes. Enjoy!

Wild Rice-Stuffed Portobellos -- Epicurean Vegan

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