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Wasabi Furikake Salmon with Roasted Bok Choy Recipe

Nov 4, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Salmon on a counter with all of the ingredients

Embark on a culinary journey that marries simplicity with elegance in our Wasabi Furikake Salmon recipe. This easy salmon dish is a testament to the beauty of effortless cooking, delivering a visually stunning plate with very little effort.

The harmonious blend of umami-rich seaweed, nutty sesame seeds, the perfect pinch of salt, and a whisper of sugar creates a symphony of flavors that will delight the palate of anyone. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, this recipe promises to impress with its delectable balance and ease of preparation.

Allow the beauty of the simple ingredients to shine through in a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. Feel free to add white sushi rice or roasted Japanese Sweet Potato if you’d like more carbohydrates to pair with this one sheet meal.

Be sure to indulge in using the Jacobsen Salt Co salt. It just is a delectable culinary Sea Salt that flecks perfectly and maintains its flavor during oven roasting.

One-Sheet Pan Wasabi Furikake Salmon with Roasted Bok Choy

Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Salmon fillets
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
  • 1-2 tsp Wasabi Paste adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce Low Sodium
  • 2 tsp Furikake
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

For Roasted Bok Choy

  • 4 heads Bok choy Halved Lengthwise
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Extra Virgin
  • Sesame Seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Wasabi Mayo: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, wasabi paste, and soy sauce until well combined. Adjust the amount of wasabi paste according to how spicy you want it.
  • Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on one side of the prepared sheet pan. Season them with salt and pepper. Spread the wasabi mayo mixture over the top of each fillet, then sprinkle with furikake seasoning.
  • Prepare the Bok Choy: Toss the bok choy halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Arrange them around the salmon on the sheet pan, cut side down.
  • Roast: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the bok choy is tender and has a bit of char.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the bok choy for an added touch. Serve the wasabi furikake salmon and roasted bok choy immediately.

Notes

  • Wasabi Furikake: We love the kick of  wasabi furikake for this dish but tip toe into finding the right amount of kick for you. If you can’t find furikake with wasabi, you can use regular furikake and add extra wasabi paste to the mayo mixture.
  • Adjusting Wasabi Heat: Wasabi can be quite potent. Start with a smaller amount and add more to the mayo mixture according to your heat preference.
  • Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a light salad to balance the bold flavors of the wasabi and furikake.

We hope you’ve enjoyed the journey of creating this delectable Wasabi Furikake Salmon as much as we’ve loved sharing it with you. Now, we’re eager to hear from you! If you’ve tried this recipe, please tell us your thoughts in the comments below. Did the dish tantalize the taste buds or leave you wanting more?

Did you add a personal twist that gave it an extra special kick? Your creativity could inspire the next great kitchen adventure, so we’d love to hear your unique takes and flavorful flairs. Let’s continue to cultivate a community where every recipe is a canvas for inspiration and every meal is a shared celebration.

Must-Have Accessories for Your Sous Vide Cooking

Sep 20, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Sous vide cooking in a pot on a wooden table

One of the hottest trends in cooking right now is sous vide. This innovative cooking method allows you to achieve precise temperatures and consistent results every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sous vide enthusiast, having the right accessories can take your cooking to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore the must-have accessories for your sous vide cooking adventures.## Understanding the Basics of Sous Vide Cooking

Sous vide cooking involves sealing your ingredients in a vacuum-sealed bag and cooking them in a precisely controlled water bath. This gentle cooking process results in perfectly cooked food with enhanced flavors and textures. But before we dive into the accessories, let’s take a closer look at the science behind sous vide cooking.

The Science Behind Sous Vide

At its core, sous vide cooking relies on the principles of low-temperature cooking and precision control. By cooking your food at a constant temperature, you eliminate the risk of overcooking and achieve incredible tenderness. The controlled environment also helps to retain moisture and nutrients, ensuring that your dishes are juicy and flavorful.

One of the key scientific concepts behind sous vide cooking is the Maillard reaction. This chemical reaction occurs between amino acids and sugars when exposed to high heat. The result is the browning and caramelization of the food, which adds depth and complexity to its flavor profile. With sous vide cooking, you can achieve the perfect Maillard reaction without the risk of burning or overcooking your ingredients.

Another scientific principle at play in sous vide cooking is collagen breakdown. Collagen is a protein found in meat that gives it structure and toughness. When meat is cooked at high temperatures, the collagen fibers contract and become tough. However, when cooked at lower temperatures for a longer time, the collagen breaks down into gelatin, resulting in tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Benefits of Sous Vide Cooking

There’s a reason why sous vide cooking has gained popularity among professional chefs and home cooks alike. The benefits are numerous, from perfectly cooked proteins to intense flavors. Sous vide also allows you to plan and prepare meals in advance, making it a convenient option for busy households.

One of the main advantages of sous vide cooking is its ability to achieve precise and consistent results. With traditional cooking methods, it can be challenging to control the temperature accurately, leading to unevenly cooked food. Sous vide eliminates this issue by providing a controlled environment where the temperature remains constant throughout the cooking process.

Another benefit of sous vide cooking is its ability to enhance flavors. When food is cooked in a vacuum-sealed bag, the flavors are concentrated and intensified. This means that even simple ingredients can taste extraordinary when prepared sous vide. Additionally, the sealed environment prevents the loss of aroma, ensuring that your dishes are not only flavorful but also aromatic.

Sous vide cooking is also a great option for meal prepping. By cooking your meals in advance and storing them in the refrigerator or freezer, you can save time and effort during busy weekdays. Simply reheat the vacuum-sealed bags in a water bath, and you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time.

Now, let’s dive into the essential accessories you need to get started.## Essential Sous Vide Accessories for Beginners

If you’re new to sous vide cooking, there are a few key accessories that will make your journey much smoother. Let’s explore the essential tools every beginner should have in their sous vide arsenal.

Sous Vide Immersion Circulators

An immersion circulator is the heart and soul of sous vide cooking. This device heats and circulates the water in your cooking vessel, maintaining a precise temperature throughout the cooking process. Look for a model with accurate temperature control and a user-friendly interface to ensure effortless cooking.

When choosing an immersion circulator, consider the power and wattage. Higher wattage circulators can heat the water faster and maintain a more stable temperature. Additionally, look for a circulator with a built-in timer or programmable settings, allowing you to set the desired cooking time and temperature.

Some immersion circulators also come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control and monitor the cooking process from your smartphone or tablet. This feature is especially convenient when you’re away from the kitchen and want to keep an eye on your sous vide masterpiece.

Sous Vide Water Bath Containers

While you can use any heat-safe container for your sous vide cooking, investing in a dedicated water bath container can make things much easier. These containers are designed with insulation and a lid to help maintain a constant temperature. Look for containers that are large enough to accommodate your ingredients and easy to clean.

When selecting a water bath container, consider the material it’s made of. Stainless steel containers are durable and provide excellent heat retention, while polycarbonate containers are lightweight and allow you to monitor the cooking process easily. Some containers even come with racks or dividers, allowing you to cook multiple items simultaneously without them touching each other.

It’s worth mentioning that some immersion circulators come with a clamp or attachment that allows you to securely attach them to the side of the water bath container. This feature ensures that the circulator stays in place during the cooking process, providing consistent water circulation and temperature distribution.

Lastly, consider the lid of the water bath container. A well-fitting lid helps to minimize water evaporation and maintain a stable temperature. Look for containers with transparent lids, as they allow you to monitor the cooking progress without removing the lid and disrupting the cooking environment.

Advanced Sous Vide Tools for the Enthusiast

If you’ve mastered the basics of sous vide cooking and want to take it to the next level, there are a few advanced tools that can elevate your culinary creations. Let’s explore the accessories that every sous vide enthusiast should consider.

One of the most important tools for successful sous vide cooking is a reliable and efficient sous vide vacuum sealer. Properly sealing your ingredients is crucial to ensure the best results. A sous vide vacuum sealer removes the air from the bag, creating an airtight seal that prevents moisture loss and ensures even cooking. This is especially important when cooking delicate ingredients like fish or poultry, as it helps to maintain their natural flavors and textures. When choosing a sous vide vacuum sealer, look for one with a strong suction power and a variety of sealing options for versatility. Some models even come with built-in bag cutters and roll storage, making the sealing process even more convenient.

In addition to a vacuum sealer, sous vide racks and weights are essential accessories for the advanced sous vide enthusiast. When cooking multiple smaller items, such as steak medallions or vegetables, it’s important to keep them submerged in the water bath. Sous vide racks and weights help to keep your ingredients in place, ensuring even cooking and preventing them from floating to the surface. This is particularly useful when cooking delicate ingredients that require precise temperature control. Look for racks that fit your container and are adjustable to accommodate different sizes of ingredients. Some racks even come with dividers, allowing you to separate different ingredients within the same water bath.

Another useful tool for sous vide enthusiasts is a sous vide immersion circulator. This device attaches to the side of a container filled with water and circulates the water to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This ensures that your food is cooked evenly and precisely, without the risk of overcooking or undercooking. Some immersion circulators even come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control and monitor the cooking process from your smartphone or tablet.

For those who enjoy experimenting with different flavors and aromas, sous vide infusion kits are a great addition to your sous vide toolkit. These kits typically include a vacuum sealer attachment and specially designed bags that allow you to infuse your ingredients with herbs, spices, or other flavorings. By vacuum sealing the ingredients with the desired flavors, you can enhance the taste and aroma of your dishes, creating unique and delicious culinary creations.

Lastly, don’t forget about sous vide containers and lids. While not as glamorous as other accessories, having the right container is essential for maintaining a stable water bath temperature. Look for containers that are made of heat-resistant materials and have a tight-fitting lid to minimize heat loss. Some containers even come with built-in insulation, further improving temperature stability.

With these advanced sous vide tools and accessories, you can take your culinary skills to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned sous vide enthusiast or just starting out, investing in these tools will enhance your cooking experience and allow you to create restaurant-quality dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Enhancing Your Sous Vide Experience with Additional Accessories

Now that you have the essential tools, why not take your sous vide cooking to the next level with some additional accessories? These extras can enhance your experience and open up a world of culinary possibilities.

Sous Vide Cookbooks and Apps

Expand your sous vide recipe repertoire with the help of cookbooks and apps specifically tailored to sous vide cooking. These resources provide you with a wealth of recipe ideas, cooking tips, and detailed instructions to help you experiment and create delicious meals.

Sous Vide Insulation Balls

To further improve the energy efficiency of your sous vide setup, consider investing in insulation balls. These floating balls create a barrier on the water’s surface, reducing heat loss and ensuring a more stable temperature. With insulation balls, you’ll save energy and shorten the preheating time for your water bath.

Maintenance and Care for Your Sous Vide Accessories

As with any kitchen tools, proper maintenance and care are essential to keep your sous vide accessories in top shape. Let’s explore some tips for cleaning and storing your sous vide tools.

Cleaning and Storing Your Sous Vide Tools

After each use, be sure to clean your immersion circulator, water bath container, and vacuum sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper cleaning will prevent any lingering food particles or bacteria growth. Once clean and dry, store your accessories in a cool, dry place to avoid any damage or moisture buildup.

Troubleshooting Common Sous Vide Accessory Issues

If you encounter any issues with your sous vide accessories, don’t fret! Many common problems can be easily resolved with a few troubleshooting steps. Refer to the manuals or reach out to the manufacturer for guidance. Remember, practice makes perfect, and learning from challenges will only make you a better sous vide cook.

With these must-have accessories, you’re well on your way to becoming a sous vide master. Whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your cooking experience, investing in the right tools will make a world of difference. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your immersion circulator, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with sous vide cooking!

Easy No Waste Apple Juice

Sep 19, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Applesauce in cans

For those who just have too many apples

In the spirit of sustainability and embracing a no-waste philosophy, this easy apple juice recipe utilizes the entire apple, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. It’s a refreshing beverage that not only quenches your thirst but also allows you to make the most of the nutritious value found in apples, including the often-discarded peels and cores. Apple-Picking is one of our favorite Fall Time Activities. But if we are keeping it really real…we never eat as many apples as we pick. We rarely bake the pies we promise ourselves we will make but… as we stated in the titled….this is the ultimate EASY and no-waste recipe

Ingredients

  • 6-8 apples of any variety, washed and chopped (no need to peel or core)
  • 1-2 lemons, washed and sliced (optional, for a zesty flavor)
  • Sweetener such as honey, agave syrup, or sugar, to taste (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick (optional, for a spiced variant)
  • 8-10 cups of water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly and chop them into quarters, including the cores and peels.
  2. Boil: In a large pot, add the chopped apples and cover them with water. If you’re using lemon slices and/or cinnamon, add them to the pot at this stage.
  3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are soft and tender.
  4. Mash: Use a potato masher or the back of a large spoon to mash the apples, releasing their juices.
  5. Strain: Set a fine-mesh sieve or a cheesecloth over another pot or a large bowl. Pour the apple mixture through the sieve or cheesecloth, pressing down with a spoon to extract all the juice. Discard the solids or set aside to use in compost or other recipes.
  6. Sweeten: If desired, add your choice of sweetener to the juice and stir well to combine. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
  7. Cool: Allow the juice to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to a jug or bottles and refrigerate until cold.
  8. Serve: Serve the apple juice chilled, over ice if preferred. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for various beverages.

Note

  • No Waste: The remaining apple pulp can be used as a base for apple sauce, added to compost, or incorporated into baked goods for added fiber and nutrition.

Applesauce Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Sep 18, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Introduction

Dive into the comforting embrace of these applesauce bars, where the homely warmth of applesauce meets the indulgent touch of cream cheese frosting.

We’ve always loved the magic of baking with applesauce. It provides the richness usually provided with butter or oil without the problematic side effects.

These bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. We highly recommend baking these with fresh made applesauce during peak Apple Picking Season. Freeze the bars and whip up a fresh batch of cream cheese frosting throughout the winter.

Ingredients

For the Applesauce Bars:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices to combine and set aside.
  3. Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the applesauce, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the nuts if using.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  6. Prepare the Frosting: While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Frost: Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  8. Serve: Cut the frosted bars into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful blend of applesauce and cream cheese frosting in every bite.

Notes

  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Variations: Feel free to add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.

Tequila Spiked Salsa

Sep 17, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Salasa in a bowl with a chip in it

As the warmer months beckon, there emerges a desire for easy recipes that encapsulate the spirit of summer. This Tequila Spiked Salsa is truly a harmonious blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together to create a melange of flavors.

We love this salsa as a non-obvious Cinco de Mayo garden party appetizer. This salsa stands as the perfect accompaniment, bringing a burst of color and freshness to the table.

But the charm of this salsa extends beyond Cinco de Mayo; it serves as the go-to recipe for a girls’ night in, adding a splash of summer’s vibrant hues to the evening.

This salsa deserves to be surrounded by close friends, sharing stories and laughter, adding a burst of flavor and joy to the gathering.

We highly recommend repurposing some of the ingredients into a classic guacamole. The creamy texture of the avocado in the guacamole beautifully complements the vibrant and fresh notes of the tomatillo and mango salsa, creating a symphony of flavors that dance harmoniously on the palate, a true celebration of summer in every bite.


Tequila Spiked Salsa

Total Time: 10 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chopped and seeded Roma tomatoes
  • 1 cup chopped tomatillos
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 whole avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons tequila
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Method

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped Roma tomatoes, tomatillos, and onion.
  2. Add the freshly chopped cilantro to the mixture, lending a vibrant hue and a burst of flavor.
  3. Incorporate the chopped avocado and mango pieces, adding a creamy texture and a sweet note to the salsa.
  4. Pour in the fresh squeezed lime juice and tequila, mixing well to combine the flavors harmoniously.
  5. Season the salsa with kosher salt to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  6. Add the minced garlic cloves for a hint of pungency that balances the sweetness of the mango.
  7. Toss the ingredients gently to combine, ensuring a beautiful medley of colors and flavors in every bite.
  8. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing the salsa’s taste over time.

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