Sopes with Black Beans & Cheese

The Recipe

Serves: 2 people
Preparation: 30 minutes
Assembly Time: 10 minutes

“Sopes are not as common as tacos on the streets of Mexico, however, they are a more robust and portable snack, and just as delicious. ”

One cannot talk about sopes without talking about maize and nixtamilsation. The maize crop was a fundamental element in Aztec societies and remains at the forefront of Mexican cuisine. Before colonisation, maize was processed by a method known as nixtamalisation, not only did treating the corn with an alkaline solution (lime water). give it a unique taste, it also enhanced the nutritional content of the maize (specifically niacin), which was key to preventing pellagra.

The Aztecs prepared maize in many different forms, and the most common form that is used today is masa harina. It is a glorious ingredient that can be made from a myriad of corn types and is transformed into cakes, tortillas, gorditas, tamales, champurrado and also, of course, sopes.

Sopes are a much thicker version of a tortilla and are reasonably small in size (5-10cm), they have a ‘lip’ to hold ingredients that are layered on top of them, which range from beans, shredded pork, chicken, cheese, avocado, herbs and hot sauce.

They are not as common as tacos on the streets of Mexico, however, they are a more robust and portable snack, and just as delicious.

Masa harina (dough flour) is the base of sopes, which then has water added to it to create the dough. The dough is pressed, dry-fried, shaped and fried. There is no need to add salt or herbs to sopes. As simple as the base may seem, the process of nixtamilsation gives the corn an earthy and slightly tangy flavour profile.

INGREDIENTS

SOPES
170g masa harina
300g (or less) of warm water
100g olive oil

TOPPINGS
80g/1/2 brown onion
400g black beans (cooked)
1.5 tsp toasted cumin powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 medium avocado, sliced
100g crumbled queso fresco OR Danish ‘feta cheese’
15g chopped coriander
hot sauce

METHOD

1. Finely dice the onion and cook until soft in a medium-heat fry pan with a good pour of extra virgin olive oil (you can also use butter or pork fat)

2. Add in beans and cook until soft, add about 20-50mls of water and smash the beans with a fork so they form a chunky paste (you can smash them more if you prefer a smoother texture, heck, blend them if you like!)

3. Add in cumin, smoked paprika and salt

4. Mix until combined, add more spices to taste

5. Take off the heat and start to make the sopes.

6. Mix water and masa harina to form a dough. It should not be too sticky and malleable

7. Roll into 50g size balls and place between two baking sheets, plastic or in a tortilla press.
   Gently press until the disc is around 1cm thick and 8cm wide. Repeat

8. In a cast iron pan, heat on medium, and dry fry the discs, they can be slightly brown on each side

9. While they are still warm, pinch the edges to create a ‘lip’ around the outside of the discs

10. Heat the oil in a pan on a medium-high heat and cook the sopes on each side until crispy

11. Set aside and top with bean mixture, sliced avocado, cheese, coriander and hot sauce

12. Indulge in the simple delights of Sopes… and you can read more about it HERE.

    Questions? Comments? Let me know, I’d love to hear from you.

     Buen Provecho!

Ready to bake? Try some of these quick and easy recipes..

Some of my favourite Mexican Cooking Resources & Ingredients

On Masa: Techniques, Recipes, and Reflections on a Timeless Staple

Bob's Red Mill Golden Masa Harina Corn Flour, 22 Oz

Valentina hot & extra hot sauce , black & yellow label 12,5 oz (pack of 2)

Victoria Cast Iron Tortilla Press, Tortilla and Roti Maker, Made in Colombia, 8 Inches

Jicama & Apple Salad

The Recipe

Serves: 2 people
Preparation: 10 minutes
Assembly Time:1 minute!

“From its glorious origins in Mexico, Central and South America, Jicama made the long journey to Asia in the 17th Century”

Amongst the plethora of street stalls in Mexico City, I remember the fruit carts that were neatly prepared, and too irresistible to walk past without purchasing a cup of jicama, mango, or papaya sprinkled with chilli, salt, and a squirt of juicy Mexican lime. This was not the first time I had eaten jicama, but it was the first time I had seen it served in this way – cut like thick fries and eaten raw.

Although Jicama looks like a root vegetable, it is the root of a pea plant (Fabaceae family) that spouts out from the top of it. The crispy and juicy Mexican turnip, Jicama (pronounced “Hee Ka Ma”) is derived from the Nahuatl word xīcamatl.

Where is Jicama from?

 The origins of this vegetable lie in Mexico, Central and South America and it is known to be one of the oldest cultivated crops – even the Mayans munched on it back in the day. There have been traces of Jicama found in archaeological sites in Peru that date back around 3000 years.

 Jicama most probably journeyed from the Americas to Asia with the help of the Spaniards. It is now a common ingredient found all over the world and is a popular element in dishes from popiah in Singapore to rojak in Indonesia.

What does Jicama Look Like?

With a rustic exterior, Jicama has fibrous skin yet a fleshy interior. It is made up of around 90% water and it has a glorious ability to absorb flavours ever so well.

What does Jicama Taste Like?

If you haven’t tried jicama, you will be pleasantly surprised. With its deceiving root vegetable costume, it is not at all starchy, yet has a juicy texture similar to a nashi pear with a little bit more structure. It can be eaten raw or cooked and thrown into savoury and sweet dishes.

Enough of the history lesson, here’s the recipe.

INGREDIENTS

Salad
280g jicama
60g / half red apple
30g water celery or watercress (rocket works too!)
1 tbsp / 10g raisins
1 tbsp / 5g pumpkin seeds

Dressing
1.5 tbsp lime juice
½ tsp pepper
¼ tsp salt
2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp habanero hot sauce (or any sauce you wish)

METHOD

1. Wash jicama, red apple, and water celery/watercress.

2. Trim the thick stalks of the water celery and save later for a veggie stock.

3. Peel jicama and cut into 1cm thick sticks

4. Keep the peel on the red apple and slice it a little thinner than the jicama

5. Mix the salt and pepper in the lime juice and mix until the salt has slightly dissolved, add in hot sauce and olive oil.

6. Mix until all dressing ingredients are combined.

7. Place the dressing, apple, and jicama in a bowl and mix to thoroughly coat them, allow to sit for a minute or two.

8. On a plate, place half the jicama/apple mixture and then add some of the water celery.

9. Pile the rest of the jicama and apple and then the watercress. Arrange as you wish!

10. From a reasonable height, flutter the pumpkin seeds and raisins down on the salad.

11. Add a small amount of the remaining dressing to finish.

12. Enjoy the crunchy and fresh simplicity of this healthy salad.

13. For extra oomph, feel free to add some crumbled fetta cheese.

    Questions? Comments? Let me know, I’d love to hear from you.

     Buen Provecho!

Try some mains to go with this Jicama Salad!

SOME OF MY FAVOURITE HOT SAUCES ON AMAZON

Gochujang Felafels with Garlic Sauce & Crunchy Cabbage Salad

The Recipe

Serves: 4-6 people
Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

“Felafels are known to be of Egyption origins, yet every country seems to put their own spin on this delicious heart snack. Pair it with good toppings and you have a match made in heaven.”

Inspired by my article on Jang and the wonderful world of Korean sauces, I came up with this far-from-traditional Korean dish. If you know me I love both Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food. I used a readily available Jang - Gochujang to come up with these pita pockets to show that Korean sauces go way beyond soups and marinades.

Make the felafels in advance or freeze them if you wish!

THE INGREDIENTS

Felafels
2 x 250g canned chickpeas
3 tbs generous tbsp gochujang
2 tsp minced garlic
120g/1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 tsp sesame oil
4 tbsp gangjang/soy sauce
3 tbsp rice wine vinegar
160g plain flour
Salt to taste
Handful of chopped coriander
Handful of chopped spring onions
Fine sea salt
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Yoghurt Garlic Sauce
240g good thick Greek yoghurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves of finely crushed garlic
Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients, taste and adjust
seasoning
Allow to sit in the refrigerator until ready to serve

Cabbage Salad
½ small purple cabbage
1 x nashi pear (or green apple) sliced into matchsticks
2 tbsp sesame oil
¼ cup chopped coriander leaves
¼ cup finely chopped green onions
Sea salt to taste
Mix all ingredients just before serving. Add more oil or salt if needed.

10 x pita bread pockets*

THE METHOD

1. Drain the chickpeas (you can reserve the aquafaba which works as a great vegan substitute for egg white)

2. Place the chickpeas, garlic, onion, gochujang, sesame oil and rice wine vinegar in a food processor

3. Blend until the mixture is well incorporated and smooth

4. Add in the plain flour in three parts (you may add more if needed). The flour binds the ingredients enabling the felafels to be shaped and fried easily

5. Lightly blend in the coriander and mix the spring onions by hand. Taste the mixture and add some fine sea salt if needed

6. Allow to set in the fridge slightly while you make the garlic sauce and cabbage salad

7. In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil and prepare to fry the felafels. The oil will be ready if you sprinkle a bit of flour or the falafel mixture in and it sizzles right away. When frying, watch the oil carefully as the felafels will brown quickly. After frying, take out the felafels and place on a paper towel.

8. You are welcome to pop the felafels in the oven (1bout 180’C for 10-12 minutes) after drizzling them with olive oil, however, they won’t obtain a crispy texture
   

9. Assembly; Cut the pita bread in half and slice to create and opening.

10. Place the cabbage salad in the half pitas and add the felafels, drizzle with yoghurt sauce and top with sesame seeds.

*you can buy the pita pockets or make your own HERE

TRY SOME JAM & SPREAD RECIPES

Lentil Croquettes

The Recipe

Serves: 4-6 people
Preparation: 35 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Croquettes quickly became popular in France and spread to other countries, including Spain, where they are known as "croquetas," and the Netherlands, where they are called "kroketten." Today, croquettes are enjoyed all over the world, with many variations in their fillings and coatings.

Croquettes, a wonderful French invention was developed to use leftover ingredients such as meat or cheese.
It contains a binder such as flour or potatoes and is then coated in bread crumbs and fried until golden and crispy.
Lentils and potatoes - such a hearty snack, dressed in a tangy raita or tahini sauce, how can you resist?

This recipe has a few steps but is pretty simple and can be made in bulk and frozen for later… if you don’t gobble them up at once!

THE INGREDIENTS

340g green lentils
3 bay leaves
2 clove garlic
120g onions, finely chopped
500g high starch potatoes such as Russet
4tsp chilli powder
4-5 tbsp roasted curry powder
2.5 tsp coriander powder
2.5 tsp ginger powder
2-3 tsp fine sea salt
20g chopped coriander
2 lemon zest
4-5 tbsp flour
Sunflower oil for frying

Coating
200g plain flour
300g panko crumbs
2 eggs
Have the eggs, panko and flour all in separate bowls.

THE METHOD

1. Cook the lentils in water with bay leaves and garlic until tender, strain and remove the garlic and leaves.

2. Peel and cut the potatoes into quarters, boil in salted water until crumbly.

3. Strain the water, mash the potatoes in a large bowl.

4. Fry off the chopped onion until translucent. Place into the bowl with the mashed potatoes

5. Stir in salt, spices, zest and lentils until thoroughly combined. Lastly add flour to bind the mixture

6. Shape the potato/lentil mix into medium sized patties (60g).

7. Place the patties on cling film and place them in the fridge to allow them to firm up and hold shape (overnight is ideal)

8. Dip the patties into the flour, then eggs and then panko

9. Fry until golden

10. Place onto a paper towel to drain off the excess oil

11. Serve warm with tahini sauce, raita and lemon wedges

TRY OUT SOME MAIN RECIPES BELOW

Nori Salt Popcorn

The Recipe

Serves: 2 people
Preparation: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

From the invention of the first popcorn machine by Charles Cretor in the 1890s, popcorn became a more accessible snack, where kernels could be popped from a cart by the heat of a gas burner. It was a tasty snack that was both fresh and affordable.

There’s something super comforting about curling up with a big bowl of popcorn, wearing a pair of comfy pants and sitting down to a movie or two. It’s synonymous – popcorn and films, but it wasn’t always that way.

Teosinte was the first corn plant

We could travel back to the beginning – back to over 10,000 years ago in Mexico, where corn was domesticated from teosinte, a Mexican grass with almost no physical resemblance to corn we know of today, yet it had a similar chromosome structure.

What is the difference between popcorn and sweet corn?

Popcorn and sweet corn are two different types of corn plants that should not be confused with one another. A popcorn plant is only one particular strain known as Zae mays everta that is sown and grown in nitrogen rich soil. It is then dried out completely by the sun and is only harvested when the ears have turned brown and the kernels consist of about 16% moisture. Through processing of the kernel by means of storage and then stripping the kernels from the head, the final result is around a 14% moisture content within the kernel and a hard-outer layer that is ready for some popping.

Recent studies have found that Peruvians were enjoying popcorn as a snack around 6,700 years ago. Despite the lack of kitchenware or pots to cook it in, they were roasting it over an open fire until the kernels burst and billowed out a white mushroom looking interior.

Teosinte
Credit; Matt Lavin, CC BY SA 2.0 (eos.org)

Recent studies have found that Peruvians were enjoying popcorn as a snack around 6,700 years ago. Despite the lack of kitchenware or pots to cook it in, they were roasting it over an open fire until the kernels burst and billowed out a white mushroom looking interior.

If we fast forward to the 1800s, popcorn was a common snack at outdoor fairs and carnivals, however it did take some time before it moved into the movie theatres. At these outdoor events, popcorn was made in wire baskets over open fires. Opera, theatre and the cinemas were known as more upmarket venues and popcorn took some time to find its way into the foyers of these venues.

From the invention of the first popcorn machine by Charles Cretor in the 1890s, popcorn became a more accessible snack, where kernels could be popped from a cart by the heat of a gas burner. Despite vendors not being allowed into the cinemas with their popcorn carts, they were extremely popular as movie goers would purchase their bag of popcorn before watching the movie. It was a tasty snack that was both fresh and affordable.

Popcorn Cart, 1900s
Credit: www.mypopcornkitchen.com

The United States succumbed to the Great Depression in the 1930s and taxes were high on candy and soda, allowing popcorn to be a more affordable yet still indulgent treat at the cinema. Popcorn became identified as the most popular snack to have at the movie theatres which led to the development of many types of flavoured popcorn recipes, both sweet and savoury.

From Christmas tree decorations, to bottomless bowls of the white, fluffy, crunchy stuff in cocktail bars to giant boxes in the cinema that are never finished, popcorn has had quite the history but it is definitely a snack that is loved by all and is here to stay.

Here’s a simple, umami packed snack that is just for that latest Netflix series or movie you are going to watch tonight.

THE INGREDIENTS

POPCORN
2-3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
85g popcorn kernels

NORI SALT
10g dried shiitake mushrooms
10g smoked sea salt flakes
15g roasted nori/seaweed

THE METHOD

Popcorn

1. In a large heavy based saucepan, throw in the oil, salt and corn kernels

2. Stand by with a lid before the popping begins

3. Over a medium-heat, while the oil is heating up, place the lid on the saucepan and move in a circular motion ensuring all the kernels are covered in salt and oil.

4. As the popping begins, keep the circular motion of the saucepan with lid held firmly in place. When the popping stops, take off the heat and place in a large bowl that will nestle nicely upon your lap. Sprinkle generously with the nori salt, put your feet up, turn on that Netflix and crunch away to your hearts content.

Nori Salt

1. Blend the shiitake mushrooms to a fine powder and sieve to remove any large pieces. Aside.

2. Blend the salt to a coarse grind and the seaweed slightly finer

3. It’s good to blend the ingredients separately as they are different textures to begin with.

4. Mix all the blended ingredients together and store in a sealed glass jar.

TRY SOME MAIN DISHES HERE

Panko Tofu with Edamame Hummus

The Recipe

Serves: 2-3 people
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

In the 13th century, the Arabic cookbook "Kitab Wasf al-Atima al-Mutada" (The Description of Familiar Foods) described a dish similar to hummus made from chickpeas, vinegar, and spices. In the 16th century, the Turkish chef and traveler Evliya Celebi described a popular dish in Cairo made from mashed chickpeas and tahini.

I love hummus in any shape or form. It’s just such a great dip, spread or condiment found in various cuisines in the Mediterranean and the middle east. So why edamame hummus???

Despite my heritage, I really don’t cook much Asian food as I have essentially grown up with a ‘white’ palate. I had leftover miso and tahini so I thought I would make an Asian (ish) style version of one of my favourite dips.

Edamame finds its origins in China over 2000 years ago. They are essentially fresh soybeans and are commonly eaten in Japanese restaurants, steamed or boiled in the pod. Soybeans have provided the backbone for many Japanese delicacies such as miso paste and soy sauce for over 1,000 years. Eating edamame fresh and green started around the late 800s. The idea of eating soybeans fresh with a glass of cold beer is a tradition that has spread around the world and is a common, iconic dish in many Japanese restaurants. Edamame is usually found in the freezer section as once picked, they have quite a short shelf life. You can buy them in or out of the pods for convenience and depending on what you want to use them for.

It is a light, vegan dish that is great for communal dining and adds a nice spin to the original hummus made from chickpeas.

THE INGREDIENTS

Hummus
100g lightly blanched de-shelled edamame
10g tahini
15g white miso
50g apple cider vinegar
Half a clove of finely chopped garlic
100g olive oil

Panko Tofu
40g panko breadcrumbs
250g firm tofu
50g rice flour
4g shichimi togarashi*
2g sea salt
1 egg
Vegetable oil

THE METHOD

1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until nice and smooth

1. If needed, add 25-50mls extra water to smooth out the hummus

2. Set aside while you make the tofu cubes

3. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and set aside

4. Put the panko crumbs in a shallow bowl

5. Whisk the egg and also place in another bowl

6. Mix the shichimi togarashi, flour and sea salt and place in a bowl.

7. So, now you have your line up tofu cubes, seasoned flour, egg and finally panko crumbs

8. Toss the cubes in the flour, then egg and coat in panko crumbs. Set aside.

9. In a medium saucepan, fill up with the oil – deep enough to cover the tofu and allow to heat up to about 180’C. If you throw in some panko crumbs and they sizzle on impact, you are good to go.

10. Fry the tofu cubes until golden brown, and place on a tray with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

11. Schmear the hummus on a plate, top with the tofu and sprinkle with some black sesame seeds.

12. Let me know how you go with this recipe!!
    

    * shichimi togarashi is a wonderfully bright, spicy and unique blend that can be sprinkled on ramen, steaks, salads and also this dish! It commonly is a mix of Japanese sansho pepper, black and white sesame seeds, ginger, nori and dried citrus peel

TRY SOME MORE MAIN RECIPES HERE

Moroccan Zaalouk and Babout

The Recipe

Serves: 3-4 people
Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Zalouk is believed to have originated in North Africa, where eggplant and tomatoes are commonly grown. It is thought to have been influenced by the neighboring cuisines of the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

Eggplants are probably one of my favourite vegetables (actually it is a fruit). Thai eggplants, brinjal, aubergine, baby eggplants are so versatile to make salads, dips, curries, stews and this super easy tomato and eggplant salad.

This Moroccan salad is one of my favourite dishes and can be made a few days in advance. Just sit it at room temperature, dress with a bit of oil, lemon and a good side of batbout bread. Batbout is great as it is cooked on the stove so no oven is needed for this recipe! Batbout is even good with butter and honey – it’s reminiscent to and English Muffin of sorts.

THE INGREDIENTS

Zalouk
600g eggplant (1 medium size)
400g really ripe fresh tomatoes, roughly chopped, seeds and skin removed
2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1 tsp cumin seeds, toasted
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ lemon
1 tsp honey
2 tblsp good olive oil
Chopped flat leaf parsley
Lemon juice and salt to taste

Garnish
Chopped parsley and lemon wedge

THE METHOD

Cook the eggplant over an open fire until the skin is nice and black. You also can use a grill in the oven. Place in a plastic bag and allow it to sweat it out for a bit then peel the skin. Roughly chop and set aside

Lightly fry the garlic and the tomatoes with oil on medium heat.

Add the spices to the tomato as well as honey and eggplant. Cook through for about 10-15 minutes and season with salt and lemon juice. Allow to cool before throwing in parsley leaves.

Eat at room temperature, garnish with extra parsley, olive oil and lemon wedge.

THE RECIPE – BATBOUT

Makes 6 pieces
Preparation time: 15 minutes plus proving time
Cook time: 5 minutes each

THE METHODMix the yeast with sugar and 2 tblsp warm water
Combine the flours and salt in a separate bowl
Add the oil and water to the yeast mixture
Place in an electric mixer with dough hook attachment and mix until combined and smooth
Roll and smooth out. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with cling film and allow to double in size
Turn out the dough and divide into even balls, flatten slightly and roll them in extra semolina
Heat a cast iron fry pan and cook the bread (about a minute each side), or until golden and cooked through
Serve with the delicious salad above

BABOUT

Makes: 6 pcs - Preparation Time: 15 minutes - Cooking Time: 5 minutes each

THE INGREDIENTS

1.5 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp caster sugar
150g plain flour
100g semolina
120-150mls water
1 tblsp olive oil

THE METHOD

Mix the yeast with sugar and 2 tblsp warm water
Combine the flours and salt in a separate bowl
Add the oil and water to the yeast mixture
Place in an electric mixer with the dough hook attachment and mix until combined and smooth.
Roll and smooth out. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with cling film, and allow to double in size
Turn out the dough and divide it into even balls, flatten slightly, and roll them in extra semolina.
Heat a cast iron fry pan and cook the bread (about a minute on each side), or until golden and cooked through.
Serve with the delicious salad above.

Sopa Azteca

The Recipe

Serves: 6-8 people
Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

The modern version of Sopa Azteca emerged during the Spanish colonial period, when the Spanish introduced new ingredients to the indigenous cuisine of Mexico. In particular, the soup's use of tortillas is believed to have been influenced by Spanish bread.

Sopa de Tortilla or Sopa Azteca is one of the most comforting dishes you could eat in Mexico. With the wonderful crunch of tortillas, buttery avocado and the chilli kick – it is balanced out wonderfully with a good squeeze of fresh lime.

This extremely easy and delicious dish was originally made with chicken stock and shredded chicken, topped with Mexican crema – this version of Sopa de Tortilla is vegetarian and completely vegan if you leave out the sour cream. Depending on the area the soup is made, Ancho or Pasilla chillies are usually used in this dish, however, they are hard to come by in Singapore, hence the canned chipotle chillies and the level of spice can be tailored to your taste buds.

THE INGREDIENTS

8-10 lovely ripe tomatoes (roughly chopped)
OR 2 cans of chopped tomatoes
350g Small can of chipotles in adobo (I used la Costena brand)
200g/ 1 medium white onion
2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
1 tblsp tomato paste
2tblsp olive oil
600 mls vegetable stock
Salt to taste

Garnish
Chopped coriander leaves
Smashed tortilla chips
Finely chopped onion
2- 3 avocados/sliced
Lime wedges
Sour cream (optional)

THE METHOD

1. Finely chop onion and reserve about ¼ of them for the garnish

2. Blend the chipotles in adobo can to make a paste, set aside

3. In a medium saucepan, heat oil and fry the onion until transparent, add garlic and mix through

4. Add tomatoes and mix until the onion mix has become acquainted

5. Throw in tomato paste, half of the chipotle paste and half the vegetable stock

6. Allow the ingredients to mingle and reduce, simmering at a medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally

7. Add the remainder of the stock and reduce for another 10 minutes. The soup should be the consistency of a thick tomato pasta sauce.

8. When the soup is ready, season with salt to taste and add some more chipotle paste if you need more heat.

9. Place in warm bowls and garnish with chopped tortillas, coriander, avocado slices, onion and sour cream if your heart desires.

TRY OUT SOME MAIN DISHES BELOW

Beef Manti with Yoghurt Beetroot Sauce

The Recipe

Serves: 4-6 people
Preparation: 60 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Manti is a popular dish in Turkey and other parts of Central Asia and the Middle East, and it is often enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger spread of meze (appetizers). The dish has a long history and is believed to have originated in the region of Central Asia that is now modern-day Uzbekistan.

What is a dumpling?

Dumpling. “A small ball of dough cooked and eaten with soup or meat, or a filling of fruit, meat, or vegetables covered with dough and steamed, baked, or fried. “Cambridge Dictionary

It is an extremely broad definition, however exciting as dumplings are filled with a whole world of endless combinations and possibilities. It is safe to say that most countries have their own versions of the above definition – empanadas in Argentina, dumplings in China, Pierogi in Poland and even Spaetzle in Germany.

The History of Dumplings

The second Imperial Dynasty in China (206BC-220AD) also known as the Han Dynasty, was the period when dumplings were apparently invented. The story of Zhang Zongjian, a renowned Chinese medicine practitioner, developed the dumpling or Jiaozi after seeing the people of his village ailed by frostbite, particularly around their ears.

His magical cure was dumplings the shape of ears, filled with meat, chilli and medicinal herbs. Those inflicted by illness were instructed to have these dumplings in hot soup twice a week which eventually cured them – the dumplings were so delicious that the villagers continued to make them in future winters to come.

The presence of dumplings was prevalent in 13th Century Turkey and were named “Manti”. These Manti were brought to Central Turkey by Mongol horseman. These dumplings were either dried or frozen, making it easy to transport and convenient to boil and eat wherever the horsemen camped on their journey towards Anatolia.

Gnocchi, in the form of a crumbed bread and water dough was first around in the Renaissance period in Italy. This was the first documented evidence of ‘dumplings’ in Europe.

Dumplings were originally a resourceful way to stretch out expensive proteins by bulking it up the with vegetables such as cabbage and potatoes and then wrapping up the filling in a heavy dough resulting in an economical tasty parcel of food for many. Each country around the world has their own take on the humble dumpling.

No matter what country we turn to or what time in history post Han Dynasty, the world has been enjoying and developing their own style of dumplings making each dish unique in cooking technique, ingredients used and various styles. Enjoyed with tea, in soup, in desserts or on their own, there is not one person in this world that could not love at least one type of dumpling.

I have gone back in time to Turkey and created a dish based loosely on the Manti dumpling. Adding my favourite spice – cumin and a Southern Italian flair with the inclusion of raisins and pine nuts. The sauce is usually yoghurt based with chilli oil, however I have added some roasted beetroot for a wonderful touch of colour. It requires some patience to make the dumplings, but I guarantee the results will be definitely worth it!

THE INGREDIENTS

DOUGH
250g plain flour
1 medium egg
2 tsp olive oil
¼ tsp salt
100mls cold water

SAUCE
4g/1 clove garlic
300g beetroot
80g Greek yoghurt
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp fresh dill

FILLING
200g minced beef
20g raisins, chopped
15g toasted pine nuts, chopped
½ tsp salt
¾ tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
50g red onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tbsp chopped dill

GARNISH
Dill
Chilli oil
Black sesame seeds
Thick Greek yoghurt

THE METHOD

1. In an electric mixer with paddle attachment, mix flour, salt, olive oil and egg.

2. Mix until combined and then slowly add in the cold water. Mix until the dough is smooth, wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 1 hour.

3. Wrap the whole beetroot, skin and all in aluminium foil and bake in the oven at 180’ for 1 hour or until the beet is cooked through (insert knife to check). Allow to cool, peel the beetroot and roughly chop into 2cm pieces.

4. In boiling water blanch the peeled garlic clove for a few minutes. Blend beetroot, garlic, yoghurt, salt, olive oil and dill then strain the mixture, making sure all lumps are out of the sauce.

5. For the beef filling, mix all ingredients together in a large bowl, set aside.

6. When the dough is ready, take out and roll into a 3mm thick rectangle. Using a sharp knife, cut squares about 2cm in length.

7. Place a small amount of the filling in the centre of the squares. Pinch dough together from the sides to the centre to form a cross shape at the join of the manti. If the dough has trouble sticking together, moisten the edges with a small amount of water.

8. Make sure the joins are completely sealed so the manti doesn’t burst when cooked. Repeat until all the dough and filling has been used. Set in the fridge until ready to cook.

9. Boil a large pot of salted water. Place in manti carefully, do not overcrowd the saucepan and allow them to float to the top. When they are ready, take the manti out with a slotted spoon and rest on a plate.

10. Slightly warm the beetroot sauce and place at the bottom of a shallow dish. Place the manti on the sauce and garnish with a few blobs of thick yoghurt, black sesame seeds, dill sprigs and a drizzle of chilli oil.

11. This dish can be served at room temperature

Quinoa Fishcakes with Mango Mint Dipping Sauce

The Recipe

Serves: 4 people
Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Quinoa is extremely versatile in cooking due to its texture and neutral flavour. You can create wonderful salads, risottos, porridges and even desserts that are vegan, gluten-free and high in protein.

Despite my fascination with quinoa, the growing popularity of it around the globe and the impact it has on the farmers in South America... I am actually not a big eater of the wonderful protein-enriched, neutral-tasting, trendy superfood.
However, quinoa is so amazingly versatile and can be used in sweet and savoury dishes that are gluten-free and high in protein.

With cooking, I try to challenge myself and also you, as my readers every day. To take classics and make them your own, make them current, seasonal and relevant to the region you live in. To use ingredients that you are unfamiliar with and to overcome your hesitation about trying something new.

In this recipe, the quinoa acts as a binder and gives texture to one of my favourite Thai street food snacks - fish cakes. Paired with a mint and mango dipping sauce on a peppery bed of crisp watercress. It's a little bit different from a quinoa kale salad.... try it out!

I think you are going to like it.

THE INGREDIENTS

Mango mint sauce
6 tbsp lime juice
100g mango flesh
6-8 mint leaves, finely sliced
2-3 chilli padi, finely sliced (to reduce the heat you can use regular red chillies)
5 tsp fish sauce
1 heaped tsp brown sugar

Fishcakes
250g white fish (seabass/tilapia/snapper)
60g dry quinoa
1 lime, zested
3g/ 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, finely sliced
45g/3 tbsp red curry paste
1tsp sesame oil
12g/5tsp fish sauce
6g/2tsp brown sugar
1 egg yolk
70g French green beans
Vegetable oil for frying

THE METHOD

1. Blend mango, browns sugar, fish sauce and lime juice together

2. Mix through sliced chilli and mint leaves

3. Add extra lime or sugar to taste.

4. Put quinoa in a saucepan and cover with salted water. Allow to boil until the germ ring has separated from the seed and it is soft in texture. Strain and rinse with cold water. Set aside and allow to drain.

5. Place all ingredients except green beans in a food processor and blend until combined.

6. Cut the tops and tails off the green beans and slice them into 1 cm pieces

7. In a medium bowl, mix fish mixture and cut green beans

8. Wet hands and mould small flat disks of the fish mixture (about 30g)

9. Heat 1 cm oil in a non-stick pan and fry the fishcakes, make sure you do not overcrowd the pan. 

10. Cook on each side for about 1 minute or until golden

11. Place on a cooling tray or paper towels to drain out any excess oil

12. Serve on a bed of watercress with mango mint sauce

SOME MAIN RECIPES FOR YOU TO TRY OUT

Pork & Fennel Tortellini in Tomato Beef Broth

The Recipe

Serves: 6 people
Preparation: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 1 hour

“The essence of a good muffin is the muffin top, without it, we can just call it a naked cupcake.”

If you know me, you would know how obsessed I am with all things Sicilian. I guess there are times in our lives when we travel and certain experiences, people and places stick to your memories like glue. I feel that these experiences can define who we are as individuals as they represent a small piece of time in our lives where we felt happiest or completely fulfilled.

Sicily was I place I had always wanted to travel to and I found it to be one of the most magical parts of the world I have ever been. I learned how to discover, explore and laugh out loud again.. for this, it will remain forever etched into my heart.

Sentiments aside, let's talk about food. Sicilian food is some of the best I have ever tried in my life (yes I am being biased - but why not?). It is an amalgamation of Arab, Greek, French and Spanish cultures which makes it so unique and with it being situated in the Mediterranean sea it has an abundance of glorious, wonderful produce.

Tortellini en brodo is actually a northern dish, however, I first tried it in Sicily - this recipe is loosely based on a version of the traditional dish I ate in Palermo.

INGREDIENTS - Pasta Dough
6 eggs
600g plain flour

INGREDIENTS - Tomato Beef Broth
100g fennel stalks, roughly chopped
4 small garlic cloves or 8g, chopped finely
120g yellow onion, finely chopped
500g ripe Roma tomatoes, roughly chopped
1500g good beef stock
Salt and pepper to taste
20mls olive oil for cooking the onions

INGREDIENTS - Pork and Fennel Filling
300g pork mince
80g bacon or pancetta
½ tsp fennel seeds
100g fennel, finely chopped
1 clove garlic (4g)
20g red onion
1tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp sweet paprika
40g grated parmesan cheese

METHOD
Place flour in a bowl or on a flat surface
Crack the eggs into the flour one at a time, combining the egg into the flour mixture each time
Knead the dough until it is completely smooth, for about 10 minutes (this all can be done in an electric mixer)
Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes.

METHOD
Fry the onions in the olive oil until translucent.
Fry the fennel stalks and then the garlic
Add in the tomatoes and let them cook slightly
Add in the beef stock and cook over low heat until the liquid has reduced by half
Allow the mixture to cool slightly before blending (explosions will happen otherwise!)
Blend the mixture and then fine-strain it
Set aside

THE METHOD
Cook the onion in olive oil until translucent
Add pancetta and cook through
Add the garlic, fennel seeds, fennel, onion and pork mince
Cook mixture through before adding the salt, pepper and paprika
Taste the mixture and add more seasoning if needed
Set aside and allow the mixture to cool completely
Blend in a food processor until fine.

GARNISH
Parmesan Cheese
Fennel Fronds
Sliced fennel

ASSEMBLY AND COOKING
When the pasta is set, roll it out with the pasta machine to the finest setting.
Cut circles with a round cookie cutter about 8cm in diameter
Place a teaspoon of the pork mixture into the centre of the circle
Wet one side with water and fold over into a semi-circle. Make sure all the edges are sealed tightly. Fold the two far edges of the semi-circle onto one another. Fold the excess of the semi-circle back down onto the base.

Bring a pot of salted water to the boil

Add in tortellini until they float to the top. Strain off the water

Heat the tomato stock in a separate pot

Place the tortellini in a bowl, spoon over the tomato stock

Garnish with parmesan cheese, thinly sliced fennel, fennel fronds, and olive oil.

Beetroot Salmon

The Recipe

Serves: 6 people
Preparation: Overnight
Assembly: 10 minutes

Amongst a slathering of cream cheese squeezed with some good rye or a spongy bagel, who doesn't like a bit of cured salmon?

This old school way of preserving fish dates back to the middle ages - this is known as gravlax and finds it's origins in Nordic countries such as Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland. The Nordic fisherman used to bury salted and fermented salmon in sand.

However, the actual process of curing fish is known to have begun 3000 BCE, Mesopotamia where salt and sesame oil was used in the process.  As Phoenicians started trading salt, it became commonplace in the Mediterranean so the Greeks and Romans began developing their own methods of curing fish, meat and developing some pickling methods.

The idea of curing salmon imparts and infuses flavour into the fish while under a heavyweight and the salt brings out the moisture - enabling the fish or meat to be preserved for long periods of time.

This recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare fish without using heat or too much effort. The end result is impressive in colour and surprising in texture...

THE INGREDIENTS

600g salmon, de-boned
10g dill, leaves only
300g sea salt
500g fresh beetroot
100g white wine vinegar
20g dijon mustard
50g white caster sugar

THE METHOD

1. Peel and cut beetroot into rough cubes

2. Blend the beetroot with mustard and white wine vinegar until it makes a nice paste, set aside

3. Blend the salt, dill and sugar in a spice grinder or this will work in a blender as well

4. Line a tray with 2 layers of cling film

5. Line the cling film with half the amount of beetroot mixture and half the amount of the dill salt mixture

6. Place salmon on this mixture and then pour the remainder of the salt and beetroot on top of the salmon

7. Wrap the salmon firmly with cling film.

8. Place in a box and place a considerable amount of weight on the salmon. This will squeeze out extra liquid or moisture from the fish which is ideal for the curing process. Try a few kilograms of flour, wooden boards or containers filled with water.

9. Store the fish like this overnight

10. Drain of the excess liquid and wash the salmon well to remove all the salt.

11. Slice thinly with a very sharp knife

12. Serve on rye bread with dill, capers, red onions and a good creme fraiche or sour cream

Beetroot & Cumin Soup

The Recipe

Serves: 2 people
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Eating a variety of colours every day and making your plate colourful will ensure you have a variety of nutrients to balance out your meal. No need to get too technical with nutrition.. just look at your plate and if it looks bland – ADD MORE COLOUR!!

I love stumbling upon naturally coloured purple fruits or vegetables. As well as looking stunning in a dish they are packed with lots of stuff that’s good for you!!! From purple carrots in Australia, purple cabbage in Mexico and purple broccoli in Sicily…. I love to paint my plate with colour!!!

We are surrounded by colours each and every day and colour psychology plays a huge role in our lives. White is known worldwide as the symbol of peace, sincerity and purity. Red (my favourite colour) is exciting, evoking feelings of lust and love (think Valentines Day). If we are happy and are in a good mood we are more likely to dress in bright and colourful clothes, if it is dark and cold outside, we tend to wear blacks, greys and browns.
The same principle of colour can apply to the foods we eat. Eating a variety of colours everyday and making your plate colourful will ensure you have a variety of nutrients to balance out your meal. No need to get too technical with nutrition.. just look at your plate and if it looks bland – ADD MORE COLOUR!!

Phytochemicals (antioxidants, phytonutrients, flavones, catechins) are found in all plant foods; fruit, vegetables, grains and legumes. They help plants by protecting them from environmental toxins such as insects, UV radiation and fungi that causes diseases. It is believed that these components of phytochemicals have the same benefits to the human body.
Today we are making a simple purple soup which wasn’t lonely with a side of Manoush Bread. It is easy to prepare (that is if you don’t have an explosion of soup mid way, in which case you could be cleaning up for a good hour) and can keep in your fridge up to about a week.
So, a bit about the red/purple group of fruits and vegetables….

 Reds & Purples

This colour group of foods contain anthocyanins which are powerful antioxidants that are know to boost brain activity, possess anti-inflammatory properties, may cut down heart disease and stroke by inhibiting clot formation and can also promote healthy aging of the eyes.
Examples: Aubergine, Beetroot, Berries (blackberries, blueberries, redcurrants etc), Cherries, Chillies, Plums, Prunes, Purple or red grapes, Red apples (with skin), Red cabbage, Red pears (with skin), Red peppers, Red wine, Strawberries, Cranberries

INGREDIENTS

2 tsp cumin seeds
2 tsp sea salt
15g/ 1 tblsp butter
85g/ 1/4 white onion, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
400g/ 1 large beetroot, peeled and cut into cubes
400 mls/2 cups water
stalks from the parsley leaves, finely chopped
handful of parsley leaves
40g/2 generous tblsp cream
1 tsp pepper, ground coarsely

METHOD

1. Toast the cumin seeds in a dry deep saucepan or pot until they become fragrant.

2. Add butter, onion, garlic and parsley stems. Stir and cook until the onions are clear.

3. Now add the chopped beetroot and stir for a good 5 minutes and add the salt

4. Pour the two cups (400mls) of water into the pot. Cover and cook on a medium heat for 20-30 minutes until the beetroot becomes soft.

5. Allow to cool slightly before transferring to the blender.
   Blend the soup a bit at a time to ensure it is a smooth texture.

6. Be careful to hold the lid and don’t poke anything in the blender to try and mix the soup. Otherwise, it will be disastrous....!!!!

7. For the peppered parsley cream, mix cream, finely chopped parsley, pepper and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined

8. Serve the soup warm with a good dollop of cream – might also be enjoyable dipping some MANOUSH bread in it…

Coconut and Squash Soup

I have had a craving for Thai food of late..

I am not saying that this is a Thai recipe – by no means it is authentic to the cuisine, however, it has a few reminiscent flavours; mixing sour lime, sweet sugar, spicy chilli, coconut and earthy squash.

At Mercado Medellin in La Roma, there is a stall where I buy all my veggies from. They have a particularly huge display of pumpkins and squashes and today I was feeling like, why not?

It’s super easy and if you fancy it, fridge or freeze it for later on.

THE RECIPE
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time : 30 minutes
Serves : 4

The Ingredients
3 cloves of garlic, smashed and roughly chopped
a thumb sized piece of skinned ginger (roughly chopped)
half a red chilli, roughly chopped (omit or add more depending on how spicy you want it and what kind of chilli you are using)
1/4 large white onion, roughly chopped
Small butternut squash (about 500g)
1-2 roma tomatoes
A handful of fresh coriander – roots and all
1 can (400mls) coconut milk
Juice of 1 fresh lime
2 tbsp muscovado sugar
1-2 tsp salt (to taste)

The Method
Take the garlic, ginger, onion and chillies. Fry on a medium heat in a little bit of oil for 2-3minutes. Chop the roots of the coriander and add this to the mix. Stir for a further 5 minutes. Add salt.

Skin, deseed and roughly chop the butternut squash. While you are doing this – go ahead and roughly chop the tomato too.

Add the tomato to the mix, stir until the juices start to bubble nicely and then add the squash. Stir a little again then add the coconut milk. At this point, go ahead and add the sugar.

Cover loosely and let the soup simmer nicely on a medium – low heat until the squash has softened.

Add the lime, transfer to a blender and whizz!. While doing this add the roughly chopped coriander leaves so the soup is nice and smooth.
It’s ready now. Eat and enjoy. This is also a great base for a sauce so you can add chicken, chunks of vegetables and mix it with rice.