Recipe: Czech Potato & Pickle Soup (Polévka okurková)

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Serves 6-8 One bowl of this soup takes the bite out of winter. Thick, creamy, and vegetarian, you'll be amazed at how well the flavors meld. Special thanks to Clifford A. Wright who shared a version of this recipe in his book, The Best Soups in the World. As he states in the recipe introduction: As they spoon some soup, your guests won't be able to put their finger on what they like so much... Ingredients: 2 lbs potatoes *I used Yukon Gold, peeled & diced 2 1/2 quarts water 1 tsp … [Read more...]

Recipe: Mediterranean Roast Veggies (Briam)

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Serves 4 This simple layered casserole is vegan, rich, and addictive. The vegetables cook down into a soft casserole, but can be uncovered half way through cooking to reduce the effects of steaming. Ingredients: 1 zucchini 1 small eggplant 1  potato 1/4 tsp pepper 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp oregano 1/4 cup olive oil 2/3 cup tomato sauce 1 1/2 quart casserole Method: Preheat the oven to 375F. Meanwhile, slice all the veggies into thin discs. Resist the urge to see if … [Read more...]

Recipe: Red Wine Potatoes (Potatoes “Afelia”)

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While Afelia commonly refers to a pork dish, the term can also refer to any number of ingredients stewed/roasted in red wine and sprinkled with coriander seeds. Yum! In Cyprus, the most popular variants include mushrooms, potatoes, and artichoke hearts (all of which are vegan). Most recipes add a sprinkling of coriander seeds at the end of cooking (ground or cracked is best). Serves 4 Slowly roasted in olive oil and red wine, these potatoes are so rich you won't need butter. A typical … [Read more...]

Recipe: Costa Rican Potatoes (Gallitos de Papa)

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Serves 2-4 Gallitos de Papa uses simple seasonings for big flavor. The smoky paprika and garlic go a long way to wake the humble potato up. An especially great breakfast/brunch dish, this Costa Rican favorite is perfect for serving with eggs.  Traditionally served in corn tortillas - feel free to moisten with fresh salsa or sour cream. Ingredients: 4 small potatoes, cubed 1/8 cup olive oil 4 cloves garlic, crushed 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp salt water (optional) chopped … [Read more...]

Recipe: Peasants Cachupa (Cachupa Pobre) Vegan

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Makes about 1.5 gallons Cachupa is the quintessential Cape Verdean dish. While there are countless variations, almost all Cachupas have hominy, beans, and potatoes. Some add yucca. Any assortment of vegetables and legumes can be added, depending on availability. For those who can afford it, dried and smoked Portuguese sausages are also added for tremendous "stick to your bones" flavor. Fish, such as tuna and wahoo, is a little more attainable for the average citizen. Our version is vegan and … [Read more...]

Recipe: Bolivian Peanut Soup (La Sopa de Mani)

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Serves 4 Bolivian peanut soup is a delightful way to serve up good old fashioned meat and potatoes. Cook this soup gentle and slow. If you do, the beef will be moist and tender and the potatoes will bursting with the flavor of their juices. The most unusual part of this soup is biting into the occasional crunchy peanut. Serve with Bolivian Hot Sauce. Ingredients: olive oil (or peanut oil) 1 large onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tsp oregano 1 tsp cumin 1 lb beef, cubed 1 … [Read more...]

Recipe: Sweet Potato Pone

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Serves 6 Sweet Potato Pone is a slightly spiced, dense custard-like dessert, reminiscent of pumpkin pie. Adjust sugar according to your tastes. This version will give you cavities on the first bite. Ingredients: 1 lb finely grated sweet potato 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk (or coconut milk) 1 egg 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp nutmeg 1/4 tsp ginger pinch salt Method: 1. Preheat oven to 350F. Meanwhile grate sweet potato and combine all ingredients in a large … [Read more...]

Recipe: Pommes Frites (French Fries)

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Serves 2 Umm, let me explain the small amount of fries in the first photo. We couldn't keep our fingers off of them long enough to get a picture! I don't need to tell you - French fries are tasty with just about anything. Try these homemade French fries for the fun and satisfaction of making them yourself! :) NOTE: Please read my Technique Thursday post all about French Fries. Ingredients: 2 extra large baking potatoes (about 2.5 pounds total) quart of vegetable … [Read more...]