QUINOA CHILI VERDE

Here I am again with another recipe for the Soups, Stews & Chilis collection (I just can't help myself!). This recipe has been in the works since December and I'm finally getting around to adding it to the collection. The poblanos and tomatillos have been sitting in my refrigerator for long enough (not since December though lol). So without further ado, I share with you my recipe for Quinoa Chili Verde. It's a hearty and brightly flavored chili. The tomatillos are what brighten this chili with their citrus notes. I've added just enough herbs and spices to be noticed, I didn't want to overpower it, but you can add more if you like. I used a flavorful vegetable broth so if using water you'll most likely want to up the amounts to suit your taste. My first attempt at this I added tempeh but for this recipe I've left it out. It wouldn't hurt to add a package when combining everything while crumbling it between your fingers. Tempeh will make it that much heartier (and its an excellent soy product for most!). I also added some corn which adds color and a nice sweetness. For the beans, you can use any mix. I would stick with any mix of cannellini, kidney, pinto or black. This chili is a one pot wonder and will be ready in under an hour from start to finish. You can be sure this green quinoa chili is going to be a nice departure from the usual chili routine. Round up your ingredients and give it a try!  

I know tomatillos and poblanos are in season and abundant during the summer months, but here in California we have them year round tempting me every time I see them to take them home and make something wonderful. Corn is the only ingredient in the recipe that isn't fresh year round so I used 1 cup frozen. Hopefully you can find all the produce in the winter months with ease or you'll have to wait for the warmer season.

The only thing you have to chop and dice are the onion, peppers and tomatillos. I left my tomatillos on the chunky side, they will soften and fall apart, but you can dice them up as small as you like. 

Get ready, gather your ingredients and start cooking!

QUINOA CHILI VERDE

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or 3 tablespoons water 
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 heaping teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 12 oz tomatillos, diced or quartered or 1 can (15oz) crushed
• 2 poblano or Anaheim peppers, de-seeded and diced
• 1 corn off the cob or 1 cup frozen or canned sweet corn
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• salt to taste

optional garnish

• avocado, diced
• bunch cilantro, roughly chopped
• tortilla strips
• cashew sour cream or cilantro-lime cashew sour cream

In a large pot or dutch oven, heat oil/water over medium heat and sautee onions until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic powder, oregano, cumin and chili powder, cook for 1 minute more stirring frequently, or just until spices and herbs become fragrant. Add tomatillos, poblanos, corn, beans, quinoa and vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat, uncover and let rest about 10 minutes before serving.

Serve in individual bowls topped with garnish of choice. Pairs well with corn bread too, either on the side or broken up in your chili!

Serves 4 - 6.

Notes:

Add in a package of organic tempeh for added hardiness. This Three Grain Tempeh is my favorite flavorwise.

You can rinse your quinoa if you like. I honestly usually skip this step but if you prefer you can run the quinoa under cool running water using a fine mesh seive.

Adjust the spices to your taste. If using broth you may like it as is, if using water you may like to add more.

This can also be made in the crock pot/slow cooker, add all the ingredients, cover with the vegetable broth and cook on medium or medium-low for 4 hours.

CREAMY BROCCOLI + RED LENTIL SOUP

I had a bunch of broccoli that needed to be used up and thought this would be a perfect time to add a broccoli soup to the recipe collection. Seeing that my last soup, Butternut Squash + Red Lentil Soup, was so good with the addition of lentils, I decided to add them to this soup as well. Lentils add bulk, heartiness and boost the nutritional profile by adding protein and good carbohydrates. They cook fast too so you can pull this recipe together in about 40 minutes from start to finish. It's also a one-pot meal which I love (less dishes is always a plus)! I was inspired by both these recipes from 101 Cookbooks and Green Kitchen Stories. Both simple and delicious! I especially love the Savory Corn Biscuit recipe included in the GK Stories recipe, which I had a chance to make. I made half a batch and used different shapes, a flower and a circle. Because I didn't have the non-dairy yogurt on hand, I subbed unsweetened almond milk. They were still delicious without the yogurt, so easy to make and a perfect accompaniment to the soup! 

On a side note... 

Time is flying and the holidays are almost here. If you haven't finished your holiday menus, take a peek at my Vegan Thanksgiving & Christmas Recipe ideas on pinterest and follow along if you like. During mid-October through December of every year you'll find this link at the top of every page. All handpicked and include a note about the recipe or suggestions when needed. Check the board often, it will continue to grow as I find new recipes. Happy holidays and happy pinning! :)

I also updated a couple soup recipes over the last week or so. If you need some more soup inspiration take a look at these: Roasted Fennel & Potato Soup, Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, Parsnip & Split Pea Soup: Slow Cooker or Stove Top and this Curry Lentil & Greens Soup. Each one is delicious...check em out!

We know broccoli is a nutrient dense vegetable. Rich in fiber, vitamin k & C and folate, its deep color holds many health benefits. I often eat it simply steamed with a dollop of hummus and a little sambal oelek. Once mixed, the combination is creamy, slightly spicy and delicious! Having it here in a soup is a nice change up, especially with soup season under way.

I love red lentils and their ability to blend easily in pureed soups. They add fiber, protein and cook up very light as to not alter the color of the soup as much as if using green/brown lentils. I would suggest sourcing and keeping red lentils in your pantry at all times. They are reasonable at about $2 to $3 a pound and will make dishes more nutrient dense when added. 

CREAMY BROCCOLI + RED LENTIL SOUP

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon coconut, grapeseed or olive oil or 3 Tbsps water for water saute
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup red lentils
• 2 - 3 large heads broccoli, cut into florets (stalks chopped ok too)
• 6 - 7 cups water or vegetable broth (or combo)
• 1 can coconut milk, optional
• mineral salt, to taste

to serve

• mustard seeds, crushed (I used black)
• 1 - 2 scallions, sliced
• slivered almonds

In a large dutch oven or stock pot, heat oil/water over medium heat, add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook another minute or until fragrant. Add lentils, broccoli, broth/water and optional coconut milk. Turn heat to high and bring to a boil, using the back of a fork or spoon press the broccoli down as much as you can to cover with liquids. Cover pot with lid, reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 - 20 minutes. Soup is done when lentils are tender. Taste soup, add salt as needed. Using an immersion blender puree until desired consistency. Or once cooled a few minutes, use a food processor/blender to puree (this method may take two batches to complete).

Serve in individual bowls topped with mustard seeds, scallions and almonds. Pairs great with crusty bread or biscuits of choice. If you have one on hand, a squeeze of lemon will add some brightness. 

Notes: 

If using pre-cut packaged broccoli, use about 1 1/2 - 2 pounds or 8 - 10 cups.

You may feel there is not enough water, and most likely all the broccoli won't be covered by the liquids at first. As it cooks it will soften and sink down, and any that doesn't will steam and become soft. If you like you can push the broccoli down half way through cooking. If adding a while can of coconut milk, start with the lower amount of liquids adding more as needed.

If you don't use veggie broth or have run out of an onion and/or garlic. Try adding 1 teaspoon each of garlic and/or onion powder.

I recommend sticking with red lentils but you can use green/brown lentils if needed. Cook same as above but simmer for 30 - 35 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Your soup may look a bit muddy but flavor will be good.

Use full-fat or light coconut milk. If you'd prefer, use up to 1 cup or so of unsweetened almond milk. 

APPLE, FENNEL + SAGE LENTIL LOAF

It's been two years since my last lentil loaf recipe. I thought this time I'd create something with a whole new flavor profile. I love this flavor combination and think it's a perfect fall/winter loaf or one you can rotate for variation all year long. All the flavors come through making every bite just as good as the last! A little sweetness from the apple, it's not overpowering at all. The fennel and sage are a perfect pairing of herbs. The walnuts give a little extra texture. I've kept the glaze super simple with just organic ketchup, apple cider vinegar and pure maple syrup. The glaze is tangy which is a nice contrast to the other flavors. Simple worked great here (at least I think so). I'd love to know what you think! I've adapted this new lentil loaf from my other one, The Ultimate Vegetable Lentil Loaf, which was a big hit, it's a great all-around loaf and I hope you all find this new one just as delicious!

A note on the fennel seeds. In case you're wondering what to do with your fennel seeds, I've used them in a few recipes like this Cannellini Bean & Fennel Flatbread, Mushroom and Buckwheat Soup and the Rustic Cabbage, Potato & White Bean Soup. If they are new to your pantry, you can purchase them knowing you can use them in other recipes. I love the flavor they give in each of these recipes!

Cook your lentils, let set for about 15 minutes, most of the liquid should be absorbed. Mash or puree about 3/4 of the mixture. You should be able to easily mash the lentils with a back of a fork.



While you're working on the lentils, prepare your vegetables and apple and saute with herbs.



Once everything is mixed, pack mixture into a 9 x 5 loaf pan. Spread glaze over top and bake.

Remove from oven and let cool. You may like to add a fresh layer of glaze over top like I have in the first picture.

APPLE, FENNEL + SAGE LENTIL LOAF

Ingredients

• 1 cup green/brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, diced (about 1 1/4 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 carrots, diced or grated (about 1 cup)
• 1 small apple, cored, peeled and diced or grated (use firm crisp like fuji or gala) (about 1 cup)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds, use whole or lightly crushed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sage or 2 tablespoons fresh minced
• 3/4 cup oats, quick or rolled (I used quick) or bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup flour (splet, almond, oat, GF all-purpose, etc.)
• 1/2 - 3/4 cup unsweetened organic apple sauce
• 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts, optional
• salt & pepper to taste (I used white pepper)

Glaze

• 6 tablespoons organic ketchup
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

Cook lentils: In a dutch oven or large pot, add vegetable broth and lentils, bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 40 - 45 minutes, most to all liquid should be absorbed. Lentils should be overcooked and tender. Set aside to cool, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Mash lentils with the back of a spoon or fork, or roughly puree using an immersion blender or food processor, about 2/3 - 3/4 of the lentil mixture.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Toast walnuts: Spread walnuts on a small rimmed baking pan, place in oven and toast until they are fragrant, about 10 -15 minutes. Set aside to cool..

Prepare vegetables and apple: Heat oil in a medium size pan over medium heat, add onion, celery and carrot, saute for about 5 minutes. Add apple, fennel, sage salt & pepper, heat for another 3 - 4 minutes.

Combine everything: Add the sauteed mixture with the lentils and mix. Add flour, oats, walnuts and 1/2 cup apple sauce, mix well to combine. If mixture seems to dry, add a little more apple sauce, mix again. Taste for seasoning adding extra herbs, salt and pepper as needed. 

Line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper, (this will make for easy removal later), add mixture and press down gently but firmly filling in along the edges as well. 

Make glaze: In small bowl, mix together the glaze and spread over top lentil loaf as evenly as you can. Here you can even add a fresh sage leaf in the center of the loaf, it won't burn, it may roll a bit on the edges, and will add a nice decoration (the sage leaf I have shown was fresh). 

Bake: Place loaf in oven, on middle rack, and bake for 45 - 50 minutes. Remove from oven, let cool 10 minutes, remove from pan using the edges of the parchment paper. You may like to mix a bit more sauce and spread over top. Place loaf on serving dish, cut and serve individual slices.

Serving suggestions: Serve with roasted or mashed potatoes, or potato & cauliflower mash, a side of green beans or any combo of roasted brussels sprouts, carrots, butternut squash and beets. A simple fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is also a great side! Left overs make for great sandwiches!

Makes 8 slices. 

Notes:

If you don't use a good vegetable broth while cooking the lentils, I recommend add in 1/2 teaspoon of onion and garlic powder, along with a big pinch of salt. The lentils are the base of the recipe and should have good flavor.

If mixture is too wet, add a tad more flour or oats/bread crumbs. If mixture is too dry, add a tad more apple sauce.

I've used both oats and bread crumbs. Both were great. I didn't notice that the oat flavor came through at all (or maybe I'm just adapted to them).

I don't recommend reheating the entire loaf at once. It will most likely become too dry, as the heat will take to long to reach the center. I recommend cutting slices and reheating, this way. If you need, you can make your lentil loaf the day before and store uncooked until ready to heat, bring to room temperature if possible, and heat according to instructions above.

If you love fennel and sage, by all means add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of each! Or an extra tablespoon of fresh minced sage.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH + RED LENTIL SOUP

First off, let me say this soup was so much better than I expected! I thought it was going to be completely ho-hum, especially with such minimal ingredients, but I was pleasantly surprised. It was delicious! I should have remembered butternut squash doesn't need much from my last recipe Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. It's been awhile since I've made butternut squash soup and unlike my last one, this is very filling on it's own.

I began this recipe with thoughts of adding it to pasta as a sauce. It could be used as that, although it's hearty enough on its own and honestly doesn't need it. If you do decide to add a grain, a serving of pasta or rice would be perfect. It's also fabulous with artisan bread (you already guessed that I'm sure). This soup is meant to be thick but feel free to add a tad more water if you like. This truly is a simple recipe from the ingredients to prepping and cooking. Peeling the squash is the hardest part...and really it's not so bad. No need to roast your butternut squash either, simply make make your soup in one big pot. All together, the flavors are perfect for fall. This would be a colorful and delicious starter soup for the holiday table! 

Butternut squash with its sweet flavored, brightly colored flesh is a great source of omega 3s and beta-carotene. It's also an excellent source of various vitamins like vitamin A, C & B-6 and trace elements such as manganese, copper, potassium and folate. When available, enjoy the winter squash often!

As a vegan, ethical vegan in my case,  I'm always doing my best to add in high protein plant-based sources when I can, the addition of lentils are perfect for that while adding extra thickness to the overall soup. Lentils of all color should be a part of any heart healthy diet.

The addition of sage is perfect for the fall season and holds its own health benefits, like boosting brain function and working as an anti-inflammatory. Two great reasons to add this herb wherever you can!

Colorful, hearty and delicious!

BUTTERNUT SQUASH + LENTIL SOUP

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or 1/4 cup water (for water saute)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 large butternut squash, cubed (about 8 cups)
• 1 1/2 cups red lentils 
• 2 teaspoons dried sage or 2 tablespoons fresh minced
• 7 cups vegetable broth or water 
• himalayan salt & white or fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Cook soup: In a large dutch oven or stock pot, heat oil/water over medium high heat, add onions and saute for about 5 minutes, or until soft. Add sage and squash and cook a few minutes stirring occasionally. Add lentils, broth and salt & pepper, bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, until squash is fork tender and lentils are soft. 

Puree: Once ready and slightly cooled, puree soup using your preferred method. Use an immersion blender and puree soup right in the pot until desired consistency. Or you can puree in your blender or food processor, this method may take two or three batches to complete. Add extra liquids as needed for desired thickness.

Serve topped with pine nuts and chopped sage if you like, fresh cracked pepper would also be great. 

Serves 4 - 6. 

Notes:

I used half water, half broth for this recipe. I use Better Than Bouillon paste, about 1 heaping teaspoon with 3 1/2 cups water. I find that's plenty of flavor and my soup was great. If not using vegetable broth, I might suggest adding a half teaspoon or so of garlic powder, onion powder and maybe a smidge of coriander to bring some extra flavors to the soup.

Keep in mind the smaller you chop your butternut squash, the quicker it will cook. Try to keep them around 3/4" or smaller. 

Add in chopped carrots, about 2 large, if you like.

You may just as well enjoy this soup without blending. Or you may like to use a potato masher instead, this will add some creaminess while still leaving some chunkiness.

Only red lentils will work with this recipe. For one, the color would be altered making it look muddied. Secondly, other lentils take longer longer to cook. If you can't find red lentils at your local grocery store, try ordering them online. 

Try using this as a pasta sauce or serve with a serving of rice.

This can be made a day or two ahead and reheated when ready to serve.

ROASTED NOURISH BOWL

Life has been very slow lately. I think it must be this time of year and changing season that has slowed me down. I'm not complaining, in fact I quite like it. It's given me a chance to really practice my yoga, spend time with my kids and bake a lot of loafs of bread, mainly these pumpkin and banana breads. I'm obsessed with them at the moment and they've both been amazing recipes, even when making new alterations that I've also added to the notes. Winter hasn't set in yet but I'm prepared for when it does. Between easy vegetable bowls, like the one I'm sharing here which can work for lunch or dinner, and my breads, that I eat in the morning and as a snack or dessert, I'm ready for the cooler months to come. And if you're anything like me...you'll appreciate the simplicity and beauty of this roasted nourish bowl. Late last spring I shared this Everyday Nourish Bowl which is full of fresh vegetables. I thought it'd be a good idea to have a roasted version here too so you can get an idea of, and be tempted by, all the goodness it has to offer. Even in the cooler months, the freshness of the everyday nourish bowl would be great. But really the roasted version is so delicious and perfect for the cooler months. Enjoy every bite...be warm and nourished!

Simply chop your veggies, add them and your beans to a roasting pan, toss in a little oil (or not), add a little salt & pepper and roast. Once done your vegetables should be nice and browned on the edges and fork tender. Feel free to use more or less of the vegetables I have listed. If you can't get them all in that's ok, a various few of the veggies called for will be enough. You can also change up the beans if you like, maybe use another white bean like cannellini or great northern. Other beans have slightly more protein and fiber than chickpeas so if you're looking to get the most protein I'd suggest changing them up. 

Makes a perfect complete meal once you add a grain like quinoa and some fresh spinach. A nice big dollop of hummus and you're all set for a hearty, nutrient dense meal. So much to love about bountiful nourish bowls!

ROASTED NOURISH BOWL

Ingredients

• olive, grapeseed or coconut oil, 1 - 2 tablespoons
• 1 large sweet potato, cut into 3/4" cubes
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups brussles sprouts, halved or quartered
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 large red onion, sliced
• 6 serrano chilis, sliced in half and de-seeded 
• 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas or 1 can (15oz) drained and rinsed
• 1 - 2 lemons, cut into six pieces
• mineral salt & fresh cracked pepper, to taste

To serve

• 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa
• 5 oz. spinach
• 1 - 2 avocados
• big dollop of hummus
• red pepper flakes, to garnish
• hemp hearts, to garnish

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Prepare vegetables: remove any unsightly spots on the sweet potato skins before cubing, peel the carrots if needed and half or quarter the brussels sprouts depending on the size.

Place vegetables, chickpeas and lemon in a large roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet. Toss with oil and sprinkle with salt & pepper to taste. Roast for 40 - 45 minutes, stirring half way through. Vegetables should be slightly browned on the edges and fork tender. Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes. If you have a favorite herb or herb blend, you may consider adding a dash or two before roasting.

In individual bowls, serve vegetables with 1/2 cup quinoa, handful of spinach, sliced avocado and a nice dollop of hummus. Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, hemp hearts a squeeze of roasted lemons.

Serves 6.

Notes: 

Vegetables can vary in quantity. Add or subtract to your liking.

Serrano peppers are optional. I personally love the heat they give and they are wonderful roasted! You can sub 3 jalapeno peppers as well.

If you don't have hummus on hand or want to vary it up, try using these dressings and sauces instead: Lemon-Tahini Dressing, Sriracha Cashew Sauce, tahini based Dynamite Sauce or Creamy Tahini Hippie Sauce, For a non-creamy dressing, try this Shallot Vinaigrette.

Cooking quinoa: I had a comment about cooking quinoa so here is my recipe for perfect quinoa.

In a medium size pot, bring 1 3/4 cup water + 1 cup quinoa to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. Once done, turn off heat, remove cover, fluff with fork and let set 10 - 15 minutes.

Perfect quinoa every time! Makes about 3 cups. Feel free to add a little seasoning to the quinoa before cooking like garlic powder, thyme, garlic salt, mineral salt, lemon pepper, everyday seasoning, etc. Or simply season once done. This will give you more than called for in the recipe...leftovers can be served chilled or warmed with your favorite vegetables or fruits.

KIMCHI

Welcome to the world of Kimchi! This tangy, spicy dish is a staple in the Korean culture and is typically eaten with every meal. In fact, kimchi is their national dish. Once you become accustomed to its unique characteristics, you may find yourself hooked! Kimchi is a mixture of vegetables and spices that go through a fermentation process, in our case we'll be using cabbage as our base. Fermenting foods have long been known for their health benefits. Foods like kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut, pickles, miso and tempeh are probiotic powerhouses. The fermenting creates good bacteria which work directly in the gut to balance and regulate a variety of bodily functions. It can help with IBS, boost your immunity, aid in weight loss and even promote better skin. With kimchi being so simple to make, it's easy to add this beneficial mixture to your weekly meal plans. 

My first  experience with kimchi was with a jar I picked up at a local grocery store labeled Pickled Planet. I fell in love with the spicy flavor. I also have an affinity for all the ingredients listed on the jar and set out to make my own using the list as my guide. Basically it's cabbage, apple, green onion, red pepper, salt, garlic & ginger. After researching I found how kimchi recipes vary. I'll be playing around with different versions and sharing my experience here as I do. It's very easy to make and just takes patience to get through the first day or two. In the last couple weeks, I've tried 2 different spice blends, both delicious and noted below. I've also used different style cabbages, all great. I've even added shredded carrots but will save that for another recipe. Kimchi is a new addiction for me. Its spicy, pungent flavor and versatility keeps me coming back for more. If you've never tried kimchi, I hope this will inspire you to get in the kitchen and give it a try, or pick up a ready-made vegan version and enjoy asap! 

First, quarter your cabbage and slice laterally into 2" chunks. Cabbage will shrink a bit more during the fermentation process so no need to chop it too small. But you may consider slicing the pieces with thick stalks (mainly the pieces towards the bottom), slicing them in half will do fine. Here I used Napa cabbage as it is the most traditionally used cabbage but you can use green or savoy with excellent results, you may even find you like one of these better.

Next is the soaking of the cabbage in salt water, this will help draw moisture from the plant cells causing the leaves to wilt. Soaking the cabbage in salt water will move the preperation along a lot faster than than other methods used, it is my preferred method. For your salt, stick with using kosher, pickling or other course salts like sea or mineral salts that do not contain iodine. Iodine, with its antimicrobial properties, may interfere with proper fermentation. Place cabbage in a salted water bath, cover with dish and place weighted object on top to submerge the cabbage, let soak for at least 2 hours, up to 12 if you like but I find 2 hours is plenty.

Puree the apple, onion, ginger and garlic making a sweet and zesty mixture. The sugar from the apple will help in the fermentation while adding a hint of sweetness. You can also use a pear. Some recipes call for a teaspoon or two of sugar in place of the apple (I will save that method for another kimchi recipe). I like the thought of using an apple but if you're in a pinch without an apple in sight, use 2 teaspoons of organic pure cane sugar, coconut sugar or sugar in the raw....just the puriest sugar you can find. You may like to add a bit of water to the mix as well, about 2 - 3 tablespoons. 

For the spice, you'll want to source out Korean red pepper powder or flakes known as gochugaru. You can find it at Asian grocery stores or online. I just tried this one from Mother In Laws Kimchi Korean red pepper flakes and thought it had an nice flavor. The peppers are not overly spicy, but I do find that the spiciness will intensify as the kimchi ages. I've also replaced the korean red pepper and used a mix of cayenne pepper and sweet Hungarian paprika, using 1 tablespoon each, and it was delicious as well.

Make your spice mixtures and combine with cabbage and green onions, mix well to coat. Some use their hands (gloves recommended if you do), I used wooden spoons. Pack your mixture into glass jars or containers with a lid, leaving a little room at the top and cover. Check periodically for the next 24 - 36 hours. Move to refrigerator, kimchi will keep for at least a month, maybe 2. 

Kimchi can be served a number of ways. It's great as a simple dish with rice, a little cubed tofu would balance the meal out nicely. I have a Kimchi Tofu Scramble Taco recipe coming up next which tastes amazing! You can also be inspired by these tasty recipes: Kimchi Steamed Buns, Brussels Sprout Kimchi Tacos, Kimchi Fried Rice and Kimchi Tofu Summer Rolls. I have a few other ideas in mind as well so stay tuned...

KIMCHI

Ingredients

• 1 medium Napa cabbage, about 2 lbs (savoy, green or any combo works too)
• 1/4 cup kosher, sea salt or other course salt 
• 6  cups water
• 3/4 sweet apple (I used fuji), chopped
• 1/2 small white onion, chopped
• 1 1/2 inch ginger, chopped
• 1 - 2 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons Korean chili powder (gochugaru) or 1 tablespoon each cayenne & Hungarian paprika
• 3 - 4 scallions (green onions), sliced 1 inch

Preparing Cabbage: Quarter cabbage and chop laterally into about 2 inch pieces. Place cabbage in a an extra large bowl or pot. Combine salt with 2 cups of luke warm water, stir to dissolve salt. Pour salt water over the cabbage and add remaining 4 cups, stir to mix. If you can, place a plate or circular baking dish of sorts on top to submerge the cabbage (I used a pie dish), place something with a good amount of weight on top to hold down if necessary (it's not completely necessary but will help to evenly wilt the cabbage). Give cabbage a good mix every now and then. Let set for 2 hours, up to 12 if you like. I found that 2 - 4 hours was enough and didn't see much change between the two times.

Make your seasonings: While cabbage is soaking, combine apple, onion, ginger and garlic in food processor/blender and process until fairly smooth.

In a small bowl, mix the chili pepper with a small amount of water to make a wet paste. You can just as easily blend it with the apple/onion mixture adding a couple tablespoons of water as well.

Mix everything together: Once cabbage is ready, drain water, reserving 1/2 cup, and rinse well. Place cabbage back in large bowl, combine with the scallions, apple/onion mixture and chili paste. Mix well to coat all pieces. Either use your hands (with gloves on pref to protect from the chili pepper) or simply use wooden spoons to toss everything.

Packing: Place the kimchi in glass jars or containers with lid, pack down the best you can to close air pockets and leave about an inch at the top for air and gases. Top with remaining juices, add reserved brine if needed to cover vegetables.

Fermenting: Let kimchi set at room temp (or in a cool place like a pantry or closet if weather is extremely warm) for 24 - 36 hours. After 24 hours, open kimchi and pack the mixture down with a spoon (the cabbage will have likely shrunk and you'll have more liquids). You may notice it bubbling, this is perfectly normal as the kimchi is fermenting. As your kimchi ferments the flavors will develop, taste every 24 hours and place kimchi in the refrigerator once you're happy with the taste and to slow fermentation, usually after 48 - 36 hours. It should be tangy, spicy and slightly sweet. After moving to the fridge, it's best used within a month, maybe two.

Makes about 3 - 4 cups.

Notes:

Practice makes perfect with kimchi. You may find you like it more or less spicy. After a few tries you'll find the perfect mix to suit your taste. Also, how fermented you like your kimchi will take practice as well. The weather will also play a role in how fast/slow your mixture will ferment. Higher temperatures will progress fermentation while cooler will slow it down.

If you're in a pinch without an apple in sight, use 2 teaspoons of organic pure cane sugar, coconut sugar or sugar in the raw....just the puriest sugar you can find. You may like to add a bit of water to the mix as well, about 2 - 3 tablespoons. 

You can also enjoy kimchi fresh right after you mix it and store it straight in the fridge. You may like to experiment by putting half the recipe in the fridge and the other half in the pantry to ferment & sour to see which flavor is your favorite.

Optional ingredients for color and variation: carrots and/or daikon radish (grated or julienned), about a 1/2 cup of each. If using these, add to cabbage when mixing scallions and wet mixtures together.

If using savoy or green cabbage, quarter cabbage, remove core and roughly slice.

If you don't have glass jars, plastic containers with lids will work just as well. If you have too much room, more than and inch, place plastic wrap over top but sinking it close to the surface of the kimchi and cover with lid.

I'd love to see your noms...

#thesimpleveganista

MEDITERRANEAN KALE SALAD

Summer in California is setting in, the temperatures are rising and salads are always welcome. I've been on an olive loving kick lately, as well as a chickpea kick (I'll tell you why soon), so this salad hit the spot with some salty olives, fresh sweet grape tomatoes & red bell peppers, refreshing cucumbers, red onion and fresh cooked chickpeas. All dressed up with a light vinaigrette and nice dollop of hummus. This salad didn't start with a dollop of hummus, but half way through eating I added a scoop and decided it needed to be included in the recipe (and photo), although I list it as optional. It adds such nice creaminess and rounds it out the salad well. If you find raw kale too hard to eat, even after letting it relax in lemon juice, a dollop of hummus will definitely do a world of good for you. It adds a nice creaminess to the overall salad while masking some of kale's bitterness. Similar to the Every Day Nourish Bowl, we now have another option of whole hearted goodness to choose from when a craving for salads occur! It's simple, accessible, not too expensive and good for you. Cheers to all of those things! :)

I have some fun news to share! I'm going to be immersed in all things chickpeas the next few months. I figured this post is a great place to introduce a project I've been working so hard on called, CHICKPEA: THE CHICKPEA HANDBOOK/COOKBOOK. It's all you need to know about chickpeas, with chapters containing information on nutrition, history, types, sprouting, growing (gardening), storing & selecting, flour, cooking and a few other relevant chapters. Plus, it will include upwards of 100+ recipes (not sure where to stop since there's so many good ones I want to add), including pictures of each one. It will include all of the favorite chickpea recipes from the blog and a ton of new ones. I'm excited out of my mind for this project! I was asked a few months ago what was the one ingredient that was important in my kitchen and my answer was chickpeas. They are so versatile and I use them often, especially for my hummus which is so much more than just a dip. After toying around with a couple cookbook ideas, doing a chickpea cookbook seemed so right. I want to celebrate the chickpea in all its glory and showcase its versatility, all the way from breakfast to desserts. It's a perfect fit for me and I know it will be a useful addition to any kitchen library! It's meant to be used often and will have my signature simplicity with a few recipes to kick it up a notch. I'm shooting for the end of the year but am really in no hurry as I want this book to be amazing. I ♥ chickpeas and think we should all eat more of them!

Enjoy the salad, and of course, this will be in the book! :)

MEDITERRANEAN  KALE SALAD

Ingredients 

• 3/4 bunch kale, stems removed and julienned
• 1 large lemon, juice of
• 1/2 small red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/8 small red onion, sliced
• 1/4 cucumber, sliced
• small handful cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half or campari tomatoes, quartered
• small handful cup kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
• dollop of hummus, optional (but so good!), to serve
• fresh chopped parsley, to serve

Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• juice of one lemon
• 1 heaping teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, optional
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• salt & pepper, to taste

Remove the stems from the center of the kale leaves, as least the thickest parts. Julienne kale leaves and place in a medium size bowl, add lemon juice, mix to coat the leaves and let set while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. The lemon juice will help soften the kale leaves. Toss every few minutes or so.

In a small bowl, add the ingredients for the vinaigrette. Whisk together until emulsified. It usually takes me about one minute, set aside.

Once you've prepped your other ingredients you're ready to assemble your salad. In a serving dish, add kale and top with bell pepper, onion, cucumber, tomatoes, olives and chickpeas. Add your vinaigrette over top and a dollop of hummus anywhere you like.

Serves one generously.

Notes:

Depending on the size of your produce, amounts will vary. Adjust accordingly to suit your taste and situation. For instance, I used small Persian cucumbers here but used a whole small one. Typically, you'll be using a regular or English cucumber and will only use about 1/4 of it, as per the recipe.

Enjoy!