“Fried Quinoa” with Soy Marinated Pan-Seared Tofu

As mentioned in my previous post, these past few months have been full of culinary discoveries and experiments for me. Not only have I tried new recipes in Mexico and while traveling across the US, but I also experimented a lot from the comfort of my own kitchen. Most notably, I owe my biggest discovery of them all to one of my roommates, who recently became a vegetarian. Indeed, this eye-opening experience came straight from my stove, to the greatest pleasure of my taste buds. If you haven’t guessed by now, I am talking about tofu! I know… that ecstatic comment probably didn’t make you think about that ingredient. Let me guess, when I say tofu you picture a white block of watery, flavorless, rubbery “stuff”, correct? 

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Prosciutto-Wrapped Chicken Tenders, Sweet Pea Puree, Blistered Tomatoes

I’ve been watching a really great documentary series on Netflix called “The Mind of a Chef.” Anthony Bourdain narrates each 20 minute-episode, which follows the lives of outstanding chefs from around the world. It’s an amazing “behind-the-scenes look” into the creative processes that drive them on a daily basis. They talk about their inspirations, backgrounds, and common burning passion for cooking.

Passion Project: Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta

I don’t care much for bacon… Never have, and probably never will. I didn’t grow up with it, and though I enjoy the occasional strips that come with my scrambled eggs at hotel breakfasts, I have never bought a single pack. It’s not like I have anything against it, but it simply never crosses my mind. What I do love, however, is “pancetta”. Think diced Italian bacon, a.k.a the perfect addition to any pasta sauce. The most famous of them all being “Carbonara”.

Passion Project: My (Better Than Take-Out) Chicken Tikka Masala

  I couldn’t possibly complete my chicken week without one of my favorite chicken dishes: tikka masala! a.k.a, the most British of all Indian dishes! Did you know that the debate still rages about this recipe’s origin? Though India claims its creation, the British have declared it “British National Dish.” So what’s the story behind Tikka Masala exactly?

Rutabaga Latkes

It’s official. I have a new vegetable crush, and a really big one for that matters. One as big as the vegetable in question: rutabagas! You know, these massive, round turnip look-alikes? Though my obsession only started last week end,  I already bought rutabagas twice over that single week. I’m not kidding, this (see photo) is a serious matter.