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french-polynesia Is My Kitchen
FRENCH-POLYNESIA Appetizers & Soups
Desserts influenced by France
Cream puffs
French apple tart
Chocolate pâté
Chocolate-raspberry soufflé
Pudding diplomate
Coeur a la creme
Raspberry bavarian cream
Chocolate genoise
liquid Measures
Weight & temperature Measures
non-liquid ingredients
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Mussels in mustard sauce
Tahiti tuna ceviche
Appetizers & Soups influenced by France Smoked salmon roulades Cheese beignets Savory lollipops for cocktail Apple blue cheese and hazelnut salad on endive leaves Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado Crispy salmon nuggets in kataifi crust Steamed mussels in white wine Poached eggs florentine
FRENCH-POLYNESIA Main Dishes
Tahiti tuna ceviche
Appetizers & Soups influenced by France Smoked salmon roulades Cheese beignets Savory lollipops for cocktail Apple blue cheese and hazelnut salad on endive leaves Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado Crispy salmon nuggets in kataifi crust Steamed mussels in white wine Poached eggs florentine
Pizza margherita
Tahiti tuna ceviche
Main Dishes influenced by France Apple blue cheese and hazelnut salad on endive leaves Poached eggs florentine Cheese croquettes Asparagus en croûte Mussel soup Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado Goat cheese gratin Crispy salmon nuggets in kataifi crust Asparagus with truffle broth Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar
Tahiti tuna ceviche
Main Dishes influenced by France Apple blue cheese and hazelnut salad on endive leaves Poached eggs florentine Cheese croquettes Asparagus en croûte Mussel soup Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado Goat cheese gratin Crispy salmon nuggets in kataifi crust Asparagus with truffle broth Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar
Side Dishes influenced by France
Creamy mashed potatoes
Creamy cauliflower purée
Smoked salmon salad
Celery root and fennel slaw with green apple and manchego
Tomatoes provencale
Asparagus sauce
Asparagus and tomato salad with feta
Almondine potatoes
Weight & temperature Measures
non-liquid ingredients
Top 5 countries
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Tahitian food is a fairly balanced melange of French, Chinese and Polynesian influence.
Ma’a Tahiti, traditional Tahitian food, is a mix of starchy taro and uru (breadfruit), raw or cooked fish, fatty pork, coconut milk and a few scattered vegetables.
Tuna, bonito, wahoo, swordfish and mahi mahi – dorado) and lagoon fish (parrotfish, jackfish and squirrelfish) feature prominently in traditional cuisine. Poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk) is the most popular local dish, though fish is also served grilled, fried or poached.
French Polynesia is dripping with tropical fruit, including mango, grapefruit, lime, watermelon, pineapple and banana. Pamplemousse (grapefruit) is the large, sweet, Southeast Asian variety. Another Southeast Asian introduction, is a red spiny-skinned cousin of the lychee.The
Ma’a Tahiti, traditional Tahitian food, is a mix of starchy taro and uru (breadfruit), raw or cooked fish, fatty pork, coconut milk and a few scattered vegetables.
Tuna, bonito, wahoo, swordfish and mahi mahi – dorado) and lagoon fish (parrotfish, jackfish and squirrelfish) feature prominently in traditional cuisine. Poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk) is the most popular local dish, though fish is also served grilled, fried or poached.
French Polynesia is dripping with tropical fruit, including mango, grapefruit, lime, watermelon, pineapple and banana. Pamplemousse (grapefruit) is the large, sweet, Southeast Asian variety. Another Southeast Asian introduction, is a red spiny-skinned cousin of the lychee.The
Rambutan
Appetizer Mussels in mustard sauce 
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
2 pounds cooked mussels on half shell 5 ounces mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped chives
Arrange the cooked mussels on a serving dish. Refrigerate. Combine mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice and chives.
Pour sauce over the mussels. Serve cold
Pour sauce over the mussels. Serve cold
Appetizer Tahiti tuna ceviche
the national dish of Tahiti, called "poisson cru",is similar to Latin ceviche or Hawaiian poke,the dish is made of raw fish marinated in lime or lemon juice, coconut milk and seasonings and sometimes served as a snack or appetizer.
Poisson cru is made with the freshest of ingredients as found in the islands of Tahiti. Most commonly made with raw fresh tuna.
Serves: 6
8 limes, juiced
1/4 cup drizzled rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 tsp peeled/grated ginger
1 small white onion
1 medium green bell pepper
1 tomato
1/2 medium cucumber
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup coconut milk
Serves: 6
Preparation time:20 minutes
1 3/4 pounds fresh sushi-grade tuna8 limes, juiced
1/4 cup drizzled rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 tsp peeled/grated ginger
1 small white onion
1 medium green bell pepper
1 tomato
1/2 medium cucumber
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup coconut milk
Dice the fish into 1/2-inch cubes, rinse with fresh water, drain, and place in a large nonreactive salad bowl.
Squeeze the limes and pour the juice over the fish. Add the rice wine vinegar, sriracha sauce and ginger. Mix well and chill 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Cut onion and green pepper into thin slices, and cut tomato into small cubes. Remove seeds from cucumber and cut into thin half-moons.
onions, tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in bowls
Drain some of the lime juice, add the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
Five minutes before serving, add the coconut milk. Serve chilled.
Tip
you can substitute tuna with jackfish, halibut, salmon, or snapper.
Squeeze the limes and pour the juice over the fish. Add the rice wine vinegar, sriracha sauce and ginger. Mix well and chill 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Cut onion and green pepper into thin slices, and cut tomato into small cubes. Remove seeds from cucumber and cut into thin half-moons.
onions, tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in bowls
Drain some of the lime juice, add the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
Five minutes before serving, add the coconut milk. Serve chilled.
Tip
you can substitute tuna with jackfish, halibut, salmon, or snapper.
Appetizer Smoked salmon roulades
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:12 minutes
1 tablespoon butter, melted 4 tablespoons dill, chopped
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon parmesan cheese, grated
4 eggs yolks
1 tablespoon cornstarch
4 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon capers, drained
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
4 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking pan, 8-inch by 12 inch with parchment paper. Brush with butter.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine dill, parsley, parmesan cheese, egg yolks, and cornstarch. Whisk egg whites with the cream of tartar until medium stiff. Fold into the herb mixture.
Spread evenly over the surface of pan. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from oven, and turn the pan over a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper. Peel away the paper lining. allow to cool.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, capers, salt, pepper, and seasoned salt. Spread over the surface of the baked roulade. Arrange the slices of smoked salmon over the cream cheese mixture.
Roll up tightly from one end, jelly roll style.
Enclose in the wax paper or parchment paper and refrigerate for 2 hours or more.
PRESENTATION
Unwrap the salmon roulade, and slice into 1/4 inch circles. Arrange on a serving tray, and serve cold.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine dill, parsley, parmesan cheese, egg yolks, and cornstarch. Whisk egg whites with the cream of tartar until medium stiff. Fold into the herb mixture.
Spread evenly over the surface of pan. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from oven, and turn the pan over a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper. Peel away the paper lining. allow to cool.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, capers, salt, pepper, and seasoned salt. Spread over the surface of the baked roulade. Arrange the slices of smoked salmon over the cream cheese mixture.
Roll up tightly from one end, jelly roll style.
Enclose in the wax paper or parchment paper and refrigerate for 2 hours or more.
PRESENTATION
Unwrap the salmon roulade, and slice into 1/4 inch circles. Arrange on a serving tray, and serve cold.
Appetizer Cheese beignets
may also be served as hors d'oeuvres.
Serves: 8
1 cup flour
4 large eggs
1 cup grated Swiss cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups parsley sprigs, cleaned and dried
2 cups tomato basil sauce
oil for deep frying
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
1 cup water 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces 1 cup flour
4 large eggs
1 cup grated Swiss cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups parsley sprigs, cleaned and dried
2 cups tomato basil sauce
oil for deep frying
In a medium saucepan, heat water and butter to a simmer. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon over low heat until mixture no longer sticks to pan and forms into a ball. Remove from heat.
Beat eggs in thoroughly, one by one until mixture is smooth. Mix in the cheese and seasonings.
Transfer cheese mixture to a mixing bowl.
Heat the oil in a deep fryer to 350 degrees. Carefully fry half of the dry parsley sprigs for about 10 to 12 seconds.
Transfer to a plate on a paper towel. Repeat with remaining parsley. Season with salt.
Spoon about 5 or 6 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into the oil. Do not crowd as they double in size and self rotate while cooking. Fry for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper.
Keep beignets in a warm oven while frying the remaining. Arrange the warm cheese beignets on a platter with the fried parsley.
Serve with hot tomato basil.
Note: If served as hors d'oeuvres, fry teaspoonfuls of the cheese mixture.
Beat eggs in thoroughly, one by one until mixture is smooth. Mix in the cheese and seasonings.
Transfer cheese mixture to a mixing bowl.
Heat the oil in a deep fryer to 350 degrees. Carefully fry half of the dry parsley sprigs for about 10 to 12 seconds.
Transfer to a plate on a paper towel. Repeat with remaining parsley. Season with salt.
Spoon about 5 or 6 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into the oil. Do not crowd as they double in size and self rotate while cooking. Fry for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper.
Keep beignets in a warm oven while frying the remaining. Arrange the warm cheese beignets on a platter with the fried parsley.
Serve with hot tomato basil.
Note: If served as hors d'oeuvres, fry teaspoonfuls of the cheese mixture.
Appetizer Savory lollipops for cocktail
Serves: 4
Preparation time:15 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
6 small carrots about 5-inch long 6 baby corn on the cob, (available in cans)
6 green asparagus, trimmed, about 5-inch long
1 beaten egg
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
4 tbsp. chopped cornflakes
2 tbsp. tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Peel the carrots. Blanch for 5 minutes and drain. Plant a bamboo spike at the base of each carrot, asparagus, and corn on the cob.
Roll carrots, asparagus and corn in flour. Dip them in the beaten eggs. Finally, roll the corn in the chopped cornflakes, then the carrots and asparagus in the breadcrumbs.
Place the vegetables on a baking sheet lined with lightly oiled baking paper. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake 20 to 30 mins. Sprinkle the carrots and asparagus with the parmesan then place everything on a serving platter before serving.
Peel the carrots. Blanch for 5 minutes and drain. Plant a bamboo spike at the base of each carrot, asparagus, and corn on the cob.
Roll carrots, asparagus and corn in flour. Dip them in the beaten eggs. Finally, roll the corn in the chopped cornflakes, then the carrots and asparagus in the breadcrumbs.
Place the vegetables on a baking sheet lined with lightly oiled baking paper. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake 20 to 30 mins. Sprinkle the carrots and asparagus with the parmesan then place everything on a serving platter before serving.
Appetizer Apple blue cheese and hazelnut salad on endive leaves
Serves: 8
Preparation time:20 minutes
1 large Tart-sweet red apple, such as a gala or Braeburn. cored, cut into 1/8" dice. 3 ounces blue cheese, crumbled, to yield about 3/4 cup
3/4 cup (2 large) ribs celery, finely chopped
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Kosher Salt
5 Belgium endives, leaves separated; smaller leaves saved for another use
1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and coarsley chopped
In a medium bowl, combine the apple, blue cheese, celery, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. Season to taste with salt.
To assemble, mound a small spoonful of the apple mixture onto the core end of each endive leaf. Sprinkle with the hazelnuts and serve.
To assemble, mound a small spoonful of the apple mixture onto the core end of each endive leaf. Sprinkle with the hazelnuts and serve.
Appetizer Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
12 slices thin ham 1 1/2 cups egg salad
1 cup aspic jelly
avocado slices
egg slices
Make ham rolls stuffing the egg salad in each slice. Pour liquid aspic in an 8 by 8-inch dish.
Let set until firm. Arrange stuffed ham on a platter. Decorate with avocado and egg slices.
Decorate platter with chopped aspic jelly. Refrigerate before serving.
Let set until firm. Arrange stuffed ham on a platter. Decorate with avocado and egg slices.
Decorate platter with chopped aspic jelly. Refrigerate before serving.
Appetizer Crispy salmon nuggets in kataifi crust
kataifi is a Middle Eastern pastry that resembles shredded phyllo.
In this recipe, it adds a crisp touch to the salmon nuggets. You may also use shrimp instead of salmon.
Serves: 4
1/3 cup basil leaves, finely shredded
1/3 cup chives, cut in 1-inch lengths
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
All-purpose flour, for dredging
16 small bite-size cubes of salmon
Freshly ground pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Dipping sauce
Serves: 4
Preparation time:15 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
1/4 pound kataifi dough, snipped into 4-inch lengths 1/3 cup basil leaves, finely shredded
1/3 cup chives, cut in 1-inch lengths
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
All-purpose flour, for dredging
16 small bite-size cubes of salmon
Freshly ground pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Dipping sauce
In a large, shallow dish, separate the kataifi dough into individual threads using your fingers. Add the basil and chives and toss to distribute throughout the pastry.
In a shallow bowl, beat the egg with the water. Spread the flour in another shallow bowl. Season the salmon cubes with salt and pepper. Dredge them in the flour and shake off the excess, then dip them in the beaten egg and roll in the kataifi; press to help it adhere.
Set a rack over a baking sheet. In a large, deep skillet, heat 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°. Fry 4 or 5 salmon pieces at a time until the kataifi is golden brown and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes minutes. Drain the salmon nuggets on the rack. Season with salt. Serve the nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce.
In a shallow bowl, beat the egg with the water. Spread the flour in another shallow bowl. Season the salmon cubes with salt and pepper. Dredge them in the flour and shake off the excess, then dip them in the beaten egg and roll in the kataifi; press to help it adhere.
Set a rack over a baking sheet. In a large, deep skillet, heat 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°. Fry 4 or 5 salmon pieces at a time until the kataifi is golden brown and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes minutes. Drain the salmon nuggets on the rack. Season with salt. Serve the nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce.
Appetizer Steamed mussels in white wine
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:25 minutes
5 pounds fresh mussels 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
1 1/2 cups white wine
1 tablespoon chopped shallots
1 teaspoon butter
1 teaspoon flour
1/4 teaspoon saffron
2 egg yolks
Scrub and debeard mussels. In a large kettle, combine parsley, white wine, and shallots, and bring to a boil. Steam the mussels in the boiling liquid until opened. Drain and save the cooking stock. Remove only top shells of mussels and discard.
Arrange mussels in ovenproof serving casserole. Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Pour in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
In a small saucepan, melt butter, and add flour to make roux. Stir roux in stock and whisk to thicken. Add the saffron. Pour a little sauce into egg yolks. Mix well and stir into remaining sauce.
Heat sauce but do not boil. Season to taste with salt, pepper.
Do not add salt since the mussel stock is salty. Pour sauce over the hot mussels. Serve immediately.
Arrange mussels in ovenproof serving casserole. Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Pour in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
In a small saucepan, melt butter, and add flour to make roux. Stir roux in stock and whisk to thicken. Add the saffron. Pour a little sauce into egg yolks. Mix well and stir into remaining sauce.
Heat sauce but do not boil. Season to taste with salt, pepper.
Do not add salt since the mussel stock is salty. Pour sauce over the hot mussels. Serve immediately.
Appetizer Poached eggs florentine
Hollandaise may be substituted with cream sauce. Sprinkle with grated Swiss cheese and brown under broiler.
Serves: 6
1 cup medium-thick cream sauce
6 toasted muffin halves
6 artichoke bottoms, cooked
1 cup Hollandaise
6 poached eggs
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
10 ounces fresh or frozen spinach 1 cup medium-thick cream sauce
6 toasted muffin halves
6 artichoke bottoms, cooked
1 cup Hollandaise
6 poached eggs
Cook and drain spinach, pressing dry. Mix spinach with cream sauce. Spoon cream spinach over toasted muffins.
Place steamed artichoke bottoms on top of spinach. Top with the hot poached eggs. Spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over eggs.
Place steamed artichoke bottoms on top of spinach. Top with the hot poached eggs. Spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over eggs.
Main Pizza margherita
This is the simple classic pizza If you can't find buffalo mozzarella just use a good quality cow's milk mozzarella.
Also to speed up the prep time, simply use store bought marinara sauce.
Serves: 4
1 envelope (1/4-ounce) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar (5 ml)
⅓ cup lukewarm water (75 ml)
1 ⅓ cups lukewarm water (325 ml)
2 teaspoons coarse salt (10 ml)
¼ cup oilve oil (60 ml)
3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (925 ml)
flour for kneading and rolling
olive oil for oiling the bowl (15 ml)
Sauce
3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
1 cloves garlic, chopped
2 28 ounce cans whole plum tomatoes, preferably San Marzano tomatoes (1592 ml)
Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Toppings
4 balls buffalo mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds (about 1 pound/454 grams)
1 small bunch fresh basil leaves, shredded (roughly 24 basil leaves)
Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
pinch red chile flakes, optional
olive oil, for drizzling on the pizza
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time:12 minutes
Dough1 envelope (1/4-ounce) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar (5 ml)
⅓ cup lukewarm water (75 ml)
1 ⅓ cups lukewarm water (325 ml)
2 teaspoons coarse salt (10 ml)
¼ cup oilve oil (60 ml)
3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (925 ml)
flour for kneading and rolling
olive oil for oiling the bowl (15 ml)
Sauce
3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
1 cloves garlic, chopped
2 28 ounce cans whole plum tomatoes, preferably San Marzano tomatoes (1592 ml)
Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Toppings
4 balls buffalo mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds (about 1 pound/454 grams)
1 small bunch fresh basil leaves, shredded (roughly 24 basil leaves)
Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
pinch red chile flakes, optional
olive oil, for drizzling on the pizza
Dough
In a small bowl, add 1/3 cup lukewarm water and 1 tsp. sugar. Add yeast and let sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine 3 ¾ all-purpose flour and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. In a stand mixer fitted with a dough blade, add water, olive and yeast mixture and blend. Knead on low speed for about 10 to 12 minutes until the dough comes together and is smooth. Remove dough from the bowl. Turn dough onto a well-floured surface and continue knead by hand until smooth and elastic, about 2 to 5 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If dough is still too sticky, add a little more flour. Place the dough in a lightly oiled medium bowl and cover. Let rest in a warm spot until doubled, about 45 to 60 minutes.
Sauce
Drain the tomatoes in a strainer to remove excess liquid. Process the tomatoes in a food mill over a medium bowl. Discard excess liquid or keep to make a soup.
Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan on medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté 2 minutes or until softened. Add tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Set sauce aside. Let cool to room temperature.
Toppings
Preheat oven to 500 degrees F.
Place a pizza stone on the bottom rack of oven when oven begins to preheat. Heat according to manufacturer’s directions.
Punch down dough. Divide dough into 4 balls. Using your hands, stretch and pull (or alternatively roll with a rolling pin) each ball of dough into 10 to 12-inch rounds depending on how thin you want your crust.
Sprinkle some flour onto a pizza paddle (if you don’t have a paddle, you can sprinkle flour on pizza pans or baking sheets). Place a round of dough onto the pizza paddle or pan. Evenly spoon over tomato sauce and basil and cheese. Season the pizzas with salt and pepper and chile flakes, if desired. Drizzle with olive oil. Transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone. Bake until topping is bubbly and crust is golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with remaining rounds of dough.
In a small bowl, add 1/3 cup lukewarm water and 1 tsp. sugar. Add yeast and let sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine 3 ¾ all-purpose flour and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. In a stand mixer fitted with a dough blade, add water, olive and yeast mixture and blend. Knead on low speed for about 10 to 12 minutes until the dough comes together and is smooth. Remove dough from the bowl. Turn dough onto a well-floured surface and continue knead by hand until smooth and elastic, about 2 to 5 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If dough is still too sticky, add a little more flour. Place the dough in a lightly oiled medium bowl and cover. Let rest in a warm spot until doubled, about 45 to 60 minutes.
Sauce
Drain the tomatoes in a strainer to remove excess liquid. Process the tomatoes in a food mill over a medium bowl. Discard excess liquid or keep to make a soup.
Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan on medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté 2 minutes or until softened. Add tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Set sauce aside. Let cool to room temperature.
Toppings
Preheat oven to 500 degrees F.
Place a pizza stone on the bottom rack of oven when oven begins to preheat. Heat according to manufacturer’s directions.
Punch down dough. Divide dough into 4 balls. Using your hands, stretch and pull (or alternatively roll with a rolling pin) each ball of dough into 10 to 12-inch rounds depending on how thin you want your crust.
Sprinkle some flour onto a pizza paddle (if you don’t have a paddle, you can sprinkle flour on pizza pans or baking sheets). Place a round of dough onto the pizza paddle or pan. Evenly spoon over tomato sauce and basil and cheese. Season the pizzas with salt and pepper and chile flakes, if desired. Drizzle with olive oil. Transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone. Bake until topping is bubbly and crust is golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with remaining rounds of dough.
Main Tahiti tuna ceviche
the national dish of Tahiti, called "poisson cru",is similar to Latin ceviche or Hawaiian poke,the dish is made of raw fish marinated in lime or lemon juice, coconut milk and seasonings and sometimes served as a snack or appetizer.
Poisson cru is made with the freshest of ingredients as found in the islands of Tahiti. Most commonly made with raw fresh tuna.
Serves: 6
8 limes, juiced
1/4 cup drizzled rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 tsp peeled/grated ginger
1 small white onion
1 medium green bell pepper
1 tomato
1/2 medium cucumber
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup coconut milk
Serves: 6
Preparation time:20 minutes
1 3/4 pounds fresh sushi-grade tuna8 limes, juiced
1/4 cup drizzled rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 tsp peeled/grated ginger
1 small white onion
1 medium green bell pepper
1 tomato
1/2 medium cucumber
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup coconut milk
Dice the fish into 1/2-inch cubes, rinse with fresh water, drain, and place in a large nonreactive salad bowl.
Squeeze the limes and pour the juice over the fish. Add the rice wine vinegar, sriracha sauce and ginger. Mix well and chill 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Cut onion and green pepper into thin slices, and cut tomato into small cubes. Remove seeds from cucumber and cut into thin half-moons.
onions, tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in bowls
Drain some of the lime juice, add the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
Five minutes before serving, add the coconut milk. Serve chilled.
Tip
you can substitute tuna with jackfish, halibut, salmon, or snapper.
Squeeze the limes and pour the juice over the fish. Add the rice wine vinegar, sriracha sauce and ginger. Mix well and chill 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Cut onion and green pepper into thin slices, and cut tomato into small cubes. Remove seeds from cucumber and cut into thin half-moons.
onions, tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in bowls
Drain some of the lime juice, add the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
Five minutes before serving, add the coconut milk. Serve chilled.
Tip
you can substitute tuna with jackfish, halibut, salmon, or snapper.
Main Apple blue cheese and hazelnut salad on endive leaves
Serves: 8
Preparation time:20 minutes
1 large Tart-sweet red apple, such as a gala or Braeburn. cored, cut into 1/8" dice. 3 ounces blue cheese, crumbled, to yield about 3/4 cup
3/4 cup (2 large) ribs celery, finely chopped
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Kosher Salt
5 Belgium endives, leaves separated; smaller leaves saved for another use
1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and coarsley chopped
In a medium bowl, combine the apple, blue cheese, celery, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. Season to taste with salt.
To assemble, mound a small spoonful of the apple mixture onto the core end of each endive leaf. Sprinkle with the hazelnuts and serve.
To assemble, mound a small spoonful of the apple mixture onto the core end of each endive leaf. Sprinkle with the hazelnuts and serve.
Main Poached eggs florentine
Hollandaise may be substituted with cream sauce. Sprinkle with grated Swiss cheese and brown under broiler.
Serves: 6
1 cup medium-thick cream sauce
6 toasted muffin halves
6 artichoke bottoms, cooked
1 cup Hollandaise
6 poached eggs
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
10 ounces fresh or frozen spinach 1 cup medium-thick cream sauce
6 toasted muffin halves
6 artichoke bottoms, cooked
1 cup Hollandaise
6 poached eggs
Cook and drain spinach, pressing dry. Mix spinach with cream sauce. Spoon cream spinach over toasted muffins.
Place steamed artichoke bottoms on top of spinach. Top with the hot poached eggs. Spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over eggs.
Place steamed artichoke bottoms on top of spinach. Top with the hot poached eggs. Spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over eggs.
Main Cheese croquettes
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
4 ounces butter 1 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
2 cups grated Swiss cheese
3 egg yolks
salt, nutmeg, onion powder to taste
1 cup flour
1 cup fresh bread crumbs
2 cups tomato sauce
2 cups fried parsley
In a medium saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour. Add milk and cream and whisk until sauce is thick and bubbly. Mix in the cheese. Blend well. Stir in egg yolks. Season to taste.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.
Main Asparagus en croûte
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
1 pound puff pastry sheet, thawed 1/2 pound Swiss cheese
4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
12 asparagus spears, cooked crisp
1 egg, beaten
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Roll puff pastry sheet on a floured work surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-inch squares.
Cut cheese into fingers about the size of asparagus spears.
Spread each pastry dough evenly with mustard.
Lay an asparagus spear and a strip of cheese on each pastry square. Roll them up, seal and place seam side down on a buttered baking sheet. Brush rolls with beaten egg.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until pastry is brown and cheese is melted
Roll puff pastry sheet on a floured work surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-inch squares.
Cut cheese into fingers about the size of asparagus spears.
Spread each pastry dough evenly with mustard.
Lay an asparagus spear and a strip of cheese on each pastry square. Roll them up, seal and place seam side down on a buttered baking sheet. Brush rolls with beaten egg.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until pastry is brown and cheese is melted
Main Mussel soup
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:25 minutes
2 pounds mussels 2 cups white wine
1 teaspoon shallots, chopped
1 teaspoon saffron
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons flour
1 cup cream
salt and white pepper to taste
Scrub mussels under cold running water.
Heat wine in a large pot. Add mussels. Cover pot and steam for about 5 minutes, or until mussels are opened.
Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Save.
Remove mussels from shells.
Reserve for garnish.
In a medium saucepan, add mussel broth, shallots, onion, saffron, parsley and chicken broth.
Simmer for 10 minutes.
Combine butter and flour to a paste. Whip in the cooking liquid to thicken. Add cream and seasoning. Add mussels. Heat soup, and serve hot.
Heat wine in a large pot. Add mussels. Cover pot and steam for about 5 minutes, or until mussels are opened.
Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Save.
Remove mussels from shells.
Reserve for garnish.
In a medium saucepan, add mussel broth, shallots, onion, saffron, parsley and chicken broth.
Simmer for 10 minutes.
Combine butter and flour to a paste. Whip in the cooking liquid to thicken. Add cream and seasoning. Add mussels. Heat soup, and serve hot.
Main Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
12 slices thin ham 1 1/2 cups egg salad
1 cup aspic jelly
avocado slices
egg slices
Make ham rolls stuffing the egg salad in each slice. Pour liquid aspic in an 8 by 8-inch dish.
Let set until firm. Arrange stuffed ham on a platter. Decorate with avocado and egg slices.
Decorate platter with chopped aspic jelly. Refrigerate before serving.
Let set until firm. Arrange stuffed ham on a platter. Decorate with avocado and egg slices.
Decorate platter with chopped aspic jelly. Refrigerate before serving.
Main Goat cheese gratin
You will need six shallow 6-inch (15 cm) round gratin dishes or one 10 1/2-inch (27 cm) round baking dish
Serves: 6
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves
2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano leaves or a pinch of dried leaf oregano, crushed
1 1/2 to 2 cups (33 to 50 cl) homemade tomato Sauce, at room temperature
24 best-quality black olives (such as French Nyons), pitted
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:5 minutes
10 ounces (300 g) soft goat cheese or a mix of rindless soft goat and cow or sheep's milk cheese, cubed 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves
2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano leaves or a pinch of dried leaf oregano, crushed
1 1/2 to 2 cups (33 to 50 cl) homemade tomato Sauce, at room temperature
24 best-quality black olives (such as French Nyons), pitted
Preheat the broiler.
Scatter the cheese on the bottom of the baking dish or dishes. Sprinkle with half of the herbs. Spoon on just enough tomato sauce to evenly coat the cheese. Sprinkle with olives and the remaining herbs.
Place the baking dish or dishes under the broiler about 3 inches (8 cm) from the heat.
Broil until the cheese is melted and fragrant, and the tomato sauce is sizzling, 2 to 3 minutes.
variations:
Add julienned bits of prociutto, diced cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or marinated artichokes.
Scatter the cheese on the bottom of the baking dish or dishes. Sprinkle with half of the herbs. Spoon on just enough tomato sauce to evenly coat the cheese. Sprinkle with olives and the remaining herbs.
Place the baking dish or dishes under the broiler about 3 inches (8 cm) from the heat.
Broil until the cheese is melted and fragrant, and the tomato sauce is sizzling, 2 to 3 minutes.
variations:
Add julienned bits of prociutto, diced cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or marinated artichokes.
Main Crispy salmon nuggets in kataifi crust
kataifi is a Middle Eastern pastry that resembles shredded phyllo.
In this recipe, it adds a crisp touch to the salmon nuggets. You may also use shrimp instead of salmon.
Serves: 4
1/3 cup basil leaves, finely shredded
1/3 cup chives, cut in 1-inch lengths
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
All-purpose flour, for dredging
16 small bite-size cubes of salmon
Freshly ground pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Dipping sauce
Serves: 4
Preparation time:15 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
1/4 pound kataifi dough, snipped into 4-inch lengths 1/3 cup basil leaves, finely shredded
1/3 cup chives, cut in 1-inch lengths
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
All-purpose flour, for dredging
16 small bite-size cubes of salmon
Freshly ground pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Dipping sauce
In a large, shallow dish, separate the kataifi dough into individual threads using your fingers. Add the basil and chives and toss to distribute throughout the pastry.
In a shallow bowl, beat the egg with the water. Spread the flour in another shallow bowl. Season the salmon cubes with salt and pepper. Dredge them in the flour and shake off the excess, then dip them in the beaten egg and roll in the kataifi; press to help it adhere.
Set a rack over a baking sheet. In a large, deep skillet, heat 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°. Fry 4 or 5 salmon pieces at a time until the kataifi is golden brown and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes minutes. Drain the salmon nuggets on the rack. Season with salt. Serve the nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce.
In a shallow bowl, beat the egg with the water. Spread the flour in another shallow bowl. Season the salmon cubes with salt and pepper. Dredge them in the flour and shake off the excess, then dip them in the beaten egg and roll in the kataifi; press to help it adhere.
Set a rack over a baking sheet. In a large, deep skillet, heat 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°. Fry 4 or 5 salmon pieces at a time until the kataifi is golden brown and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes minutes. Drain the salmon nuggets on the rack. Season with salt. Serve the nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce.
Main Asparagus with truffle broth
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:8 minutes
1/4 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup peanut oil
2 1/2 ounces chopped black truffles
2 pounds asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
In a small bowl, whisk together stock, oil and truffles.
In a deep 10 -to 12-inch skillet bring 3 inches salted water to a boil and cook asparagus until crisp tender, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain asparagus. Pat dry. Transfer to a serving dish and toss with butter.
Spoon truffle broth over asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Serve asparagus warm or at room temperature.
In a deep 10 -to 12-inch skillet bring 3 inches salted water to a boil and cook asparagus until crisp tender, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain asparagus. Pat dry. Transfer to a serving dish and toss with butter.
Spoon truffle broth over asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Serve asparagus warm or at room temperature.
Main Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar
From Le Cabro d'Or, Les Baux-de-Provence, France
Serves: 4
2 lemons, halved
8 artichokes (about 9 to 12 ounces each)
24 baby carrots, greens trimmed
1/4 cup olive oil
24 cherry tomatoes, halved
12 ounces button mushrooms, halved
1 10-ounce package frozen baby peas, thawed
1 10-ounce package frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:40 minutes
3 ounces Parmesan cheese 2 lemons, halved
8 artichokes (about 9 to 12 ounces each)
24 baby carrots, greens trimmed
1/4 cup olive oil
24 cherry tomatoes, halved
12 ounces button mushrooms, halved
1 10-ounce package frozen baby peas, thawed
1 10-ounce package frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Using a vegetable peeler or a medium knife, cut Parmesan into thin shavings. Set aside.
Squeeze juice from lemons into large pot; add lemons.
Fill pot with water. Cut stem and top 1/3 from 1 artichoke. Starting at base, bend leaves back and snap off where they break naturally; continue until all tough outer leaves have been removed. Using small sharp knife, trim outside of base until smooth and no dark green areas remain.
Cut artichoke lengthwise into quarters. Cut out choke from quarters. Cut each quarter in half, making 1/2-inch wedges. Place artichoke pieces in lemon water. Repeat with remaining artichokes. Cover pot and bring to boil. Boil artichokes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Cook 24 baby carrots in large pot of boiling water 5 minutes. Drain carrots well. (Carrots can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté until tomatoes and mushrooms release juices, about 8 minutes. Add artichokes, carrots, baby peas and lima beans.
Cook until lima beans and peas are tender and juices thicken slightly, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add 1/4 cup butter and stir until melted. Season vegetables to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer ragout to large bowl. Toss with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan shavings.
Squeeze juice from lemons into large pot; add lemons.
Fill pot with water. Cut stem and top 1/3 from 1 artichoke. Starting at base, bend leaves back and snap off where they break naturally; continue until all tough outer leaves have been removed. Using small sharp knife, trim outside of base until smooth and no dark green areas remain.
Cut artichoke lengthwise into quarters. Cut out choke from quarters. Cut each quarter in half, making 1/2-inch wedges. Place artichoke pieces in lemon water. Repeat with remaining artichokes. Cover pot and bring to boil. Boil artichokes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Cook 24 baby carrots in large pot of boiling water 5 minutes. Drain carrots well. (Carrots can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté until tomatoes and mushrooms release juices, about 8 minutes. Add artichokes, carrots, baby peas and lima beans.
Cook until lima beans and peas are tender and juices thicken slightly, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add 1/4 cup butter and stir until melted. Season vegetables to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer ragout to large bowl. Toss with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan shavings.
Side Dish Creamy mashed potatoes
Serves: 6
Preparation time:15 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes1/2 cup heavy cream, light cream or milk
4 ounces unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Peel the potatoes and cut into uniform 1/2-inch pieces. Place into a 4-quart saucepan and cover with cold water by at least 1-inch.
Cover, set over high heat and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, remove the lid, decrease the heat to maintain a simmer and cook until the potatoes can easily be crushed with a pair of tongs,
approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Drain in a colander.
Put the cream, butter, salt and pepper into the now empty 4-quart saucepan and place back over
the heat until the butter has melted.
Remove from the heat and set a food mill fitted with the smallest die, on top of the pot.
Add 1 cup of potatoes at a time to the mill. Once all of the potatoes have passed through the mill, stir to combine.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Serve immediately.
Cover, set over high heat and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, remove the lid, decrease the heat to maintain a simmer and cook until the potatoes can easily be crushed with a pair of tongs,
approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Drain in a colander.
Put the cream, butter, salt and pepper into the now empty 4-quart saucepan and place back over
the heat until the butter has melted.
Remove from the heat and set a food mill fitted with the smallest die, on top of the pot.
Add 1 cup of potatoes at a time to the mill. Once all of the potatoes have passed through the mill, stir to combine.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Serve immediately.
Side Dish Creamy cauliflower purée
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
1 medium head cauliflower, cut up into florets4 cloves crushed garlic
1/3 cup 1% buttermilk or low fat sour cream
salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter
Steam or boil cauliflower and garlic until soft. Drain, add buttermilk, light butter, salt, pepper and purée with a hand blender or regular blender.
Side Dish Smoked salmon salad
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
10 ounces baby spinach, cleaned, drained 8 ounces smoked salmon
8 slices Swiss cheese
For dressing:
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
Trim stalks from spinach and shred leaves finely. Place in a large bowl. Cut smoked salmon and cheese into matchstick strips.
Heat the dressing ingredients in a pot. Bring to boil. Pour hot dressing over spinach and toss well.
PRESENTATION
Divide spinach among cold salad plates. Top with salmon and cheese. Vary the amount of spinach and cheese if desired.
Heat the dressing ingredients in a pot. Bring to boil. Pour hot dressing over spinach and toss well.
PRESENTATION
Divide spinach among cold salad plates. Top with salmon and cheese. Vary the amount of spinach and cheese if desired.
Side Dish Celery root and fennel slaw with green apple and manchego
Serves: 4
Preparation time:20 minutes
Cooking time:5 minutes
1/3 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)1/2 cup olive oil
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
4 cups very thinly sliced fennel
1 1/2 cups matchsticks Granny Smith apple (from about 1/2 large)
1 1/2 cups matchsticks peeled celery root (from about 1/4 small) or celery
1 1/2 cups matchsticks peeled daikon (from about 1/2 medium)
3 ounces Manchego cheese, shaved, divided
Preheat oven to 350°F. Toss pumpkin seeds and 1 tsp. oil on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Bake until golden brown and puffed, about 5 minutes; let cool. Finely chop 2 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds.
Whisk chopped pumpkin seeds, lemon juice, mustard, maple syrup, vinegar and remaining oil in a medium bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper.
Combine fennel, Asian pear, celery root, Granny Smith apple, most of the Manchego, and remaining pumpkin seeds in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing over top and toss to combine; season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining Manchego.
Whisk chopped pumpkin seeds, lemon juice, mustard, maple syrup, vinegar and remaining oil in a medium bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper.
Combine fennel, Asian pear, celery root, Granny Smith apple, most of the Manchego, and remaining pumpkin seeds in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing over top and toss to combine; season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining Manchego.
Side Dish Tomatoes provencale
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:25 minutes
4 tomatoes 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
2 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
to taste salt and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Wash tomatoes. Cut the tomatoes in half crosswise, discarding the cores.
Put them in a buttered baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oil, blending well to form a crumbly mixture.
Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the tomatoes. Bake at 350 degrees until the tomatoes are tender.
Put them in a buttered baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oil, blending well to form a crumbly mixture.
Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the tomatoes. Bake at 350 degrees until the tomatoes are tender.
Side Dish Asparagus sauce
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
12 asparagus spears 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 small scallions (green onions), chopped
to taste, salt and ground white pepper
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Cut asparagus in halves. Discard the woody parts. Cut spears into 1-inch pieces. Cook in salted boiling water until tender, about 6 minutes. Melt butter in a skillet. Add asparagus, scallions, salt and pepper to taste. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Puree mixture in a blender. Put through a strainer. Heat in a saucepan with the cream, and keep warm until needed.
Side Dish Asparagus and tomato salad with feta
This Asparagus and Tomato Salad is easy to make with steamed asparagus, grape tomatoes, creamy feta, fresh herbs and a light dressing. The tarragon gives it a welcome hint of licorice. It can be eaten cold, warm or hot.
Asparagus is popular in the spring, especially around Easter and in the summer. It's peak season is April. This dish makes a great vegetable side dish and pairs perfectly with Easter.
Serves: 4
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp dried tarragon (use 1 tablespoon if using fresh)
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed - 2 bunches
3 green onions, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved (551 ml)
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
Asparagus is popular in the spring, especially around Easter and in the summer. It's peak season is April. This dish makes a great vegetable side dish and pairs perfectly with Easter.
Serves: 4
Preparation time:10 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp dried tarragon (use 1 tablespoon if using fresh)
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed - 2 bunches
3 green onions, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved (551 ml)
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
Snap off the woody ends of asparagus where they naturally break when you bend them or cut them off with a knife.
Boil water in a large pot or saucepan with steamer then reduce to simmer, add asparagus, cover with lid and steam asparagus until tender (about 8-10 minutes) *This will depend on your preference.
Use tongs to remove asparagus
In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, red wine, dijon mustard, salt and pepper together.
Cover and set aside until ready to use.
Arrange cooked asparagus tomatoes on a large platter.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
Drizzle with ½ the dressing and serve the remainder on the side *Can be served warm, room temperature or chilled.
????Variations & Substitutions
Tomatoes- you could use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes
Asparagus -you could use grilled or oven-roasted asparagus instead of steamed
Tarragon- fresh tarragon is ideal, but you can use dried
Feta cheese - you can use regular, light or fat-free feta or use goat cheese
Add-ins- you could also sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese and/or add red onions or green onion
Boil water in a large pot or saucepan with steamer then reduce to simmer, add asparagus, cover with lid and steam asparagus until tender (about 8-10 minutes) *This will depend on your preference.
Use tongs to remove asparagus
In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, red wine, dijon mustard, salt and pepper together.
Cover and set aside until ready to use.
Arrange cooked asparagus tomatoes on a large platter.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
Drizzle with ½ the dressing and serve the remainder on the side *Can be served warm, room temperature or chilled.
????Variations & Substitutions
Tomatoes- you could use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes
Asparagus -you could use grilled or oven-roasted asparagus instead of steamed
Tarragon- fresh tarragon is ideal, but you can use dried
Feta cheese - you can use regular, light or fat-free feta or use goat cheese
Add-ins- you could also sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese and/or add red onions or green onion
Side Dish Almondine potatoes
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
2 pounds potatoes 3 ounces butter, soft
3 egg yolks
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
For breading:
3 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoonsoil
1/2 cup flour
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1 cup sliced almonds
oil for frying
Peel and cut potatoes into large cubes. Place in a large saucepan, boil in salted boiling water until tender. Drain well, and put through a ricer.
In a large saucepan, combine potatoes with butter, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Using a wooden spoon, mix well over medium heat until mixture thickens.
Spread mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until cold.
Shape duchess potato into small logs, (1 inch round by 3 inches long).
Dip in beaten egg mixed with oil. Coat in flour, and roll in breadcrumbs and sliced almonds combined. Deep Fry at 350 degrees until golden brown
In a large saucepan, combine potatoes with butter, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Using a wooden spoon, mix well over medium heat until mixture thickens.
Spread mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until cold.
Shape duchess potato into small logs, (1 inch round by 3 inches long).
Dip in beaten egg mixed with oil. Coat in flour, and roll in breadcrumbs and sliced almonds combined. Deep Fry at 350 degrees until golden brown
Dessert Cream puffs
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
1 cup water 1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 cup flour
4 large eggs
For filling:
2 cups whipping cream
1/2 cup confectioner's sugar
1 tablespoon instant vanilla or chocolate pudding
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Heat water and butter to a rolling boil in a saucepan. Stir in flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon over low heat until mixture no longer sticks to pan and forms into a ball. Remove from heat. Using an electric mixer, beat eggs in thoroughly, one by one. Beat mixture until smooth. Spoon cream puff mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a plain tube and pipe the equivalent of a tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheet leaving 3 inches apart.
Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven to 350 degrees and continue baking until puffed, golden brown and dry.
FILLING:
Whip the cream with sugar and instant vanilla pudding until stiff. Fill the puffs with cream using a pastry bag fitted with a small plain tube. Other fillings can be used (ice cream, chocolate or vanilla pudding).
Heat water and butter to a rolling boil in a saucepan. Stir in flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon over low heat until mixture no longer sticks to pan and forms into a ball. Remove from heat. Using an electric mixer, beat eggs in thoroughly, one by one. Beat mixture until smooth. Spoon cream puff mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a plain tube and pipe the equivalent of a tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheet leaving 3 inches apart.
Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven to 350 degrees and continue baking until puffed, golden brown and dry.
FILLING:
Whip the cream with sugar and instant vanilla pudding until stiff. Fill the puffs with cream using a pastry bag fitted with a small plain tube. Other fillings can be used (ice cream, chocolate or vanilla pudding).
Dessert French apple tart
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:40 minutes
Serves 8 1 recipe never-fail pie crust
1 cup thick apple sauce
5 large baking apples
2 ounces melted butter
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup apricot jam
1 tablespoon kirsch or water
Roll the dough into a round 1/8 inch thick on a floured surface, drape it over a rolling pin, and fit it into a 10-inch shallow flan pan with a removable ring.
Press the dough firmly into the pan and cut off any excess with the floured rolling pin.
Freeze any leftover dough for future use.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Peel and core the apples. Slice into very thin slices.
Cover and spread pie crust with apple sauce. Arrange sliced apples over apple sauce.
Brush apples with butter and sprinkle sugar over apples. Bake the tart at the lowest rack for 30 to 40 minutes or until apples are tender and golden brown.
Remove the tart from the pan and transfer to a rack. In a small saucepan, melt apricot jam with Kirsch or water.
Strain apricot over apple. Spread evenly to form a glaze. Serve at room temperature.
Press the dough firmly into the pan and cut off any excess with the floured rolling pin.
Freeze any leftover dough for future use.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Peel and core the apples. Slice into very thin slices.
Cover and spread pie crust with apple sauce. Arrange sliced apples over apple sauce.
Brush apples with butter and sprinkle sugar over apples. Bake the tart at the lowest rack for 30 to 40 minutes or until apples are tender and golden brown.
Remove the tart from the pan and transfer to a rack. In a small saucepan, melt apricot jam with Kirsch or water.
Strain apricot over apple. Spread evenly to form a glaze. Serve at room temperature.
Dessert Chocolate pâté
Serves: 10
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
16 ounces semi sweet chocolate 4 ounces sugar
1/2 cup water
7 egg yolks
1/4 cup Cognac
1 cup heavy cream
Mocha creme:
8 large egg yolks
3/4 cup sugar
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon espresso instant coffee
1 teaspoon water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Melt semi sweet chocolate over a double boiler. Combine sugar and water. Boil to 240 degrees.
Beat egg yolks until creamy. Pour hot syrup over yolks while beating continuously at medium speed until cool. Add cognac. Mix.
Whip cream until stiff. Fold cream into egg mixture. Add chocolate and fold thoroughly.
Spoon in a loaf pan with bottom and sides lined with parchment paper.
Cover with plastic wrap and chill for 4 hours or up to 2 days.
Invert on a platter and slice portions onto plate using a warm carving knife. Decorate with fresh fruit and if desired serve with Mocha creme sauce.
Mocha creme:
Beat the egg yolks and sugar until lemony in color. Bring the milk to a gentle boil. Gradually blend into the egg mixture and cook over low heat while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. The custard should coat the back of a wooden spoon. Do not boil custard as it will curdle.
Strain into a serving bowl. Dissolve coffee in water. Mix coffee and vanilla into custard.stir to cool.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. May be prepared two days in advance.
Beat egg yolks until creamy. Pour hot syrup over yolks while beating continuously at medium speed until cool. Add cognac. Mix.
Whip cream until stiff. Fold cream into egg mixture. Add chocolate and fold thoroughly.
Spoon in a loaf pan with bottom and sides lined with parchment paper.
Cover with plastic wrap and chill for 4 hours or up to 2 days.
Invert on a platter and slice portions onto plate using a warm carving knife. Decorate with fresh fruit and if desired serve with Mocha creme sauce.
Mocha creme:
Beat the egg yolks and sugar until lemony in color. Bring the milk to a gentle boil. Gradually blend into the egg mixture and cook over low heat while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. The custard should coat the back of a wooden spoon. Do not boil custard as it will curdle.
Strain into a serving bowl. Dissolve coffee in water. Mix coffee and vanilla into custard.stir to cool.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. May be prepared two days in advance.
Dessert Chocolate-raspberry soufflé
Serves: 4
Preparation time:20 minutes
Cooking time:40 minutes
1/4 cup unsalted, shelled raw pistachiosUnsalted butter (for ramekins)
1/2 cup sugar, plus more for ramekins
6 ounces high-quality bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup high-quality raspberry jam or jelly
1 large egg yolk
1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more
6 large egg whites, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup heavy cream
Special Equipment
4 (6-ounce) ramekins
Position rack in center of oven; preheat to 375°F. Toast pistachios on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing once, until fragrant and slightly darkened, 5–6 minutes. Let cool slightly, then coarsely chop.
Meanwhile, butter ramekins, making upward strokes up the sides with a pastry brush. Sprinkle with sugar, tilting to coat completely and tapping out any excess. Arrange prepared ramekins on baking sheet.
Combine chocolate and jam in a medium heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water; stir constantly until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth, 1–2 minutes. Remove bowl from heat. Stir in egg yolk and 1/4 tsp. salt.
Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment on medium speed until frothy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, 1 Tbsp. at a time, and beat until medium peaks form, 6–7 minutes.
Using a rubber spatula, fold one-quarter of the beaten egg whites into chocolate mixture to lighten. Fold in remaining egg whites in 2 batches. Divide batter among prepared ramekins, filling completely.
Transfer baking sheet with ramekins to oven and bake soufflés until puffed and tops feel firm to the touch, 18–20 minutes.
Meanwhile, using an electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Dollop soufflés with cream, top with chopped pistachios, and serve immediately.
Meanwhile, butter ramekins, making upward strokes up the sides with a pastry brush. Sprinkle with sugar, tilting to coat completely and tapping out any excess. Arrange prepared ramekins on baking sheet.
Combine chocolate and jam in a medium heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water; stir constantly until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth, 1–2 minutes. Remove bowl from heat. Stir in egg yolk and 1/4 tsp. salt.
Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment on medium speed until frothy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, 1 Tbsp. at a time, and beat until medium peaks form, 6–7 minutes.
Using a rubber spatula, fold one-quarter of the beaten egg whites into chocolate mixture to lighten. Fold in remaining egg whites in 2 batches. Divide batter among prepared ramekins, filling completely.
Transfer baking sheet with ramekins to oven and bake soufflés until puffed and tops feel firm to the touch, 18–20 minutes.
Meanwhile, using an electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Dollop soufflés with cream, top with chopped pistachios, and serve immediately.
Dessert Pudding diplomate
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:1 hour
2 cups milk 3 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
3 ounces candied fruit, diced
1 teaspoon Kirsch
2 cups lady fingers, cut into cubes
1 recipe custard cream
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Bring milk to a boil. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar. Pour milk over and stir to mix. Strain through a fine strainer.
In a small bowl, combine candied fruit and kirsch. Let stand for a few minutes. Line the bottom of a charlotte mold with wax paper. Cover with candied fruit. Add lady fingers to mold to fill. Pour custard over lady fingers. Bake in waterbath for 1 hour.
Cool completely. Unmold on serving deep dish. Spoon custard cream around dish. Serve remaining custard cream with dessert.
Bring milk to a boil. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar. Pour milk over and stir to mix. Strain through a fine strainer.
In a small bowl, combine candied fruit and kirsch. Let stand for a few minutes. Line the bottom of a charlotte mold with wax paper. Cover with candied fruit. Add lady fingers to mold to fill. Pour custard over lady fingers. Bake in waterbath for 1 hour.
Cool completely. Unmold on serving deep dish. Spoon custard cream around dish. Serve remaining custard cream with dessert.
Dessert Coeur a la creme
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 12 minutes
16 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup sour cream
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon instant vanilla pudding
1/2 cup superfine sugar
Mix cream cheese with sour cream until smooth. Whip the cream and instant vanilla pudding until firm. Add sugar then whip until stiff. Fold cream into cream cheese mix. Spoon mixture into a heart-shaped mold lined with cheese cloth. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set. Unmold on serving dish. Serve with strawberry or raspberry sauce.
Dessert Raspberry bavarian cream
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:8 minutes
4 egg yolks 4 ounces sugar
1 cup milk, boiling
2 cups raspberry puree, strained
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
2 teaspoons cold water
1 1/2 cups whipping cream
Garnish:
fresh raspberries
raspberry sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until creamy and thick.
Gradually pour the milk over the egg mixture while whisking. Transfer to a saucepan.
Heat over medium heat stirring with a wooden spoon, until thick. Do not boil.
Strain the custard through a fine strainer. Stir in the raspberry puree.
Dissolve the gelatin in water. Set aside for 5 minutes. Melt over low heat, and stir into the raspberry mixture. Chill until it starts to set.
Whip the cream until stiff, and fold into the cold raspberry mixture.
Pour into a large decorative mold, or individual molds. Refrigerate for 2 hours to set.
To unmold:
Loosen the bavarian cream from the side of the molds with a knife. Dip the bottom of molds in hot water for a few seconds. Invert on a platter or plates.
Decorate with fresh raspberries and drizzle raspberry sauce over bavaroise.
Gradually pour the milk over the egg mixture while whisking. Transfer to a saucepan.
Heat over medium heat stirring with a wooden spoon, until thick. Do not boil.
Strain the custard through a fine strainer. Stir in the raspberry puree.
Dissolve the gelatin in water. Set aside for 5 minutes. Melt over low heat, and stir into the raspberry mixture. Chill until it starts to set.
Whip the cream until stiff, and fold into the cold raspberry mixture.
Pour into a large decorative mold, or individual molds. Refrigerate for 2 hours to set.
To unmold:
Loosen the bavarian cream from the side of the molds with a knife. Dip the bottom of molds in hot water for a few seconds. Invert on a platter or plates.
Decorate with fresh raspberries and drizzle raspberry sauce over bavaroise.
Dessert Chocolate genoise
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:25 minutes
3 tablespoons (42 grams) hot melted unsalted butter1/2 cup (65 grams) cake flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup (30 grams) unsweetened regular or Dutch-processed cocoa powder
4 large eggs
2/3 cup (135 grams) granulated white sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Butter, or spray with a non stick spray, a 9 inch (23 cm) round cake pan and line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper.
Sift the flour with the salt and cocoa powder.
In a heatproof bowl whisk together the eggs and sugar. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Whisking constantly, heat the eggs and sugar until lukewarm to the touch (this will take about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to the bowl of your electric mixer. Beat on high speed (about 3-5 minutes) until the egg mixture has cooled, tripled in volume, and looks like softly whipped cream (the batter will fall back into the bowl in a ribbon-like pattern). Beat in the vanilla extract.
Then sift about one-third of the flour mixture over the whipped eggs and gently fold in using a large rubber spatula or whisk. Fold in half of the remaining flour, and then fold in the rest. (Do not over mix or the batter will deflate). Take about 1 cup of the batter and fold it into the hot butter mixture.
Then, with a spatula, gently fold the butter mixture completely into the egg batter. Pour into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake until the cake shrinks slightly from the edges of the pan and the top springs back when lightly pressed (about 20 - 25 minutes). (A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.) Cool on a metal rack.
When the cake has cooled completely, run a small knife around the edges to release the cake. The genoise will keep two days in the refrigerator or it can be frozen for a couple of months.
Sift the flour with the salt and cocoa powder.
In a heatproof bowl whisk together the eggs and sugar. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Whisking constantly, heat the eggs and sugar until lukewarm to the touch (this will take about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to the bowl of your electric mixer. Beat on high speed (about 3-5 minutes) until the egg mixture has cooled, tripled in volume, and looks like softly whipped cream (the batter will fall back into the bowl in a ribbon-like pattern). Beat in the vanilla extract.
Then sift about one-third of the flour mixture over the whipped eggs and gently fold in using a large rubber spatula or whisk. Fold in half of the remaining flour, and then fold in the rest. (Do not over mix or the batter will deflate). Take about 1 cup of the batter and fold it into the hot butter mixture.
Then, with a spatula, gently fold the butter mixture completely into the egg batter. Pour into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake until the cake shrinks slightly from the edges of the pan and the top springs back when lightly pressed (about 20 - 25 minutes). (A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.) Cool on a metal rack.
When the cake has cooled completely, run a small knife around the edges to release the cake. The genoise will keep two days in the refrigerator or it can be frozen for a couple of months.
conversion of liquids
Weights
Temperatures
Measures of non liquid ingredients
Non-liquid ingredients in volume converted
|
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ingredient |
1 cup |
3/4 cup |
2/3 cup |
1/2 cup |
1/3 cup |
1/4 cup |
2 tablespoons |
| All-purpose wheat flour | 120 g | 90 g | 80 g | 60 g | 40 g | 30 g | 15 g |
| All-purpose sifted wheat flour | 110 g | 80 g | 70 g | 55 g | 35 g | 27 g | 13 g |
| White sugar | 200 g | 150 g | 130 g | 100 g | 65 g | 50 g | 25 g |
| Powdered sugar/Icing sugar | 100 g | 75 g | 70 g | 50 g | 35 g | 25 g | 13 g |
| Brown sugar normally packed | 180 g | 135 g | 120 g | 90 g | 60 g | 45 g | 23 g |
| Corn flour | 160 g | 120 g | 100 g | 80 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| Cornstarch | 120 g | 90 g | 80 g | 60 g | 40 g | 30 g | 15 g |
| Rice (not-cooked) | 190 g | 140 g | 125 g | 95 g | 65 g | 48 g | 24 g |
| Macaroni (uncooked) | 140 g | 100 g | 90 g | 70 g | 45 g | 35 g | 17 g |
| Couscous (uncooked) | 180 g | 135 g | 120 g | 90 g | 60 g | 45 g | 22 g |
| Quick oatmeal (uncooked) | 90 g | 65 g | 60 g | 45 g | 30 g | 22 g | 11 g |
| Table salt | 300 g | 230 g | 200 g | 150 g | 100 g | 75 g | 40 g |
| Butter / Margarine | 240 g | 180 g | 160 g | 120 g | 80 g | 60 g | 30 g |
| Shortening | 190 g | 140 g | 125 g | 95 g | 65 g | 48 g | 24 g |
| Fruits and légumes chopped | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| chopped walnuts | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| Nuts /ground almonds | 120 g | 90 g | 80 g | 60 g | 40 g | 30 g | 15 g |
| Fresh bread crumbs (not packed) | 60 g | 45 g | 40 g | 30 g | 20 g | 15 g | 8 g |
| Dry bread crumbs | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| Parmesan grated | 90 g | 65 g | 60 g | 45 g | 30 g | 22 g | 11 g |
| Chocolate chips | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 38 g | 19 g |
As the sun rises or sets in
FRENCH-POLYNESIA
"May every sunrise hold more promise, and every sunset hold more peace."
The {Page Turner} E-Cookbooks
Library on a world cooking journey
38 Recipes
10 Appetizers
12 Main dishes
8 Side dishes
8 Desserts