Cooking With Beer: 7 Vegan Recipes for Beer-Infused Dishes

Cooking With Beer: 7 Vegan Recipes for Beer-Infused Dishes

You’ve heard of cooking with wine, but what about cooking with beer? The popular hoppy beverage has made its way into the food-trend scene, and for good reason: it’s delicious. From moist stout cupcakes and beer-battered tofu tacos to chocolate stout brownies and beer macaroni and cheese, we’ve compiled a list of the tastiest beer-infused vegan dishes to whet your appetite. So, raise your glass, but don’t take a sip. Instead, enjoy beer cooked into your food. Cheers!

But first, which beers are vegan?

Before you get cooking, it’s important to check that the beer you’re using is actually vegan. Sometimes animal products, like casein or gelatin, are used as fining or clarifying agents in the production process. But also, some brands use animal products in their beers. (Stouts, for example, are sometimes brewed with lactose, which comes from cow’s milk.) If you’re not sure which beers are vegan, before you head to the grocery store, check out our ultimate guide to vegan beer.

7 vegan recipes for beer-infused dishes

Once you’ve found the right beer, it’s time to get cooking. Just try to resist drinking all the beer as you go! 

VegNews.beerveganrecipe.Thyme & Love

 

1 Vegan Beer Brats

With baseball season in swing, beer-infused brats are the perfect addition to any Beer Day celebration. Do like Thyme & Love and cook your favorite Beyond Meat brats in a bath of your go-to summer brew for a flavor you won’t soon forget. Served between soft pretzel buns and loaded with all the fixings, dress up this classic with a side of potato salad (or even baked beans!) for the ultimate meal. 
Get the recipe

VegNews.JackieSobonThaiBBQSlidersVegan Yack Attack

2 Thai BBQ Beer Can Cabbage with Daikon Slaw

If you’re the kind of person who likes to experiment with your food, try these inventive sliders from cookbook author (and VegNews contributor) Jackie Sobon. Packed with barbecued beer cabbage (which involves gutting a cabbage, adding beer into it, and slow-grilling the beer-stuffed cabbage until tender and infused with hoppy goodness), the sandwich’s Asian-inspired barbecue sauce and bright daikon slaw make for an incredible handheld.
Get the recipe

VegNews.JackieSobonThaiBBQVegan Yack Attack

3 Beer & Brat Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Another delicious culinary invention from the kitchen of Jackie Sobon, this Oktoberfest-worthy macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. The cashew-based sauce is completely swoon-worthy thanks to its luxuriously creamy texture and added oomph from the Golden Ale beer. We’d smother almost anything with it, but Sobon pairs it with perfectly cooked pasta and hearty chunks of vegan seitan bratwurst.
Get the recipe

VegNews.veganchilli.MinimalistBakerMinimalist Baker

4 Vegan Beer Chili

Is it okay to drink alone if you pour the beer into a pot of chili? We say yes, which is why Minimalist Baker’s one-bowl wonder is our staple for nights spent curled up on the couch. Although the recipe serves eight, we find it’s best suited for the single lifestyle. Simple ingredients? Check. Easy prep? Yep (less than an hour). Freezer-friendly? You bet! Plus, the beer gives it a robust flavor, and the beans give this soup substance. Serve it in a pint glass for a festive touch and enjoy your party of one.
Get the recipe 

VegNews.HotforFoodBowlDipHot for Food 

5 Vegan Beer & Cheddar Bread Bowl Dip

Beer and cheese is the harmonious adult equivalent to peanut butter and jelly, which might explain why Hot for Food created the ultimate gooey, cheesy, plant-based dip perfect for a movie night in (Seaspiracy, anyone?). The dip relies on potatoes and cashews for its classically thick consistency, while the beer, spices, and pickled jalapeños enhance its bold, complex flavor. The dip is poured into a bread bowl and topped with vegan cheddar, green onion, and coconut bacon, so forgo the accouterments and start ripping this bowl apart.
Get the recipe

VegNews.veganbeerbatteredtacosHealthy Happy Life

 

6 Crispy Beer-Battered Tofu Tacos

Those who say they don’t like tofu obviously have never had Kathy Patalsky’s beer-battered creation. The blogger transforms these bland bricks of soy into crave-able, beer-soaked bites that are simple yet satisfying when paired with pickled onions, cabbage, avocado, vegan chipotle mayonnaise, and hot sauce. The tofu is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and tastes delicious inside a warm tortilla. We’re making extra to add to our salads, sandwiches, and Buddha bowls.
Get the recipe

VegNews.veganbrownieswithbeer.chocolatecoveredkatieChocolate Covered Katie

7Chocolate Stout Brownies

Stout is an acquired taste, but everyone can learn to love its chocolate accents, thanks to these decadent vegan brownies. Concocted by healthy vegan dessert blog Chocolate Covered Katie, these guiltless brownies are fudgy, stuffed with chocolate chips, and are a surefire pleaser. Note: Katie highly recommends you let these sit overnight in the refrigerator before serving, so plan ahead and make these the night before. We won’t judge if you celebrate a day early by eating the batter.
Get the recipe

For more about beer, read:

The 30 BEST Corned Beef Recipes

The 30 BEST Corned Beef Recipes

Are you looking for a fun and creative new way to spruce up your mid-week dinner routine? Look no further than these delicious Corned Beef Recipes! Packed full of flavor, these dishes are sure to satisfy the entire family.

Whether you’re looking to give your usual roast beef recipe an Irish twist, want something a bit more out of the ordinary, or just need some hearty go-to meals that won’t take too much effort, this list will provide plenty of ideas!

So get ready, it’s time to bring the joy of St Patrick’s Day into your kitchen all year round with these deliciously easy corned beef recipes.

corned beef recipes pin

This easy Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage takes next to no effort, and results in perfectly tender, melt in your mouth beef.

Just a few ingredients, and about five minutes of your time, is all you need to make this mouthwatering crockpot corned beef dinner.

Who says you have to wait for St. Patrick’s day, this recipe is so easy you can enjoy it all year long!

Get the Recipe


Let’s talk about Reuben… Cheeesy, Goooey, Crunchy, Ooozy!! It’s not just your regular sandwich.

It’s piled high with fall apart, succulent corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, nutty Swiss cheese and Russian dressing.

All that in between butter slathered marbled rye bread, pressed or grilled until toasty brown and buttery crisp… YUM!

Get the Recipe


Enjoy the classic comfort food of corned beef and cabbage soup just like Grandma used to make, but with a slow-cooked twist.

This stew is sure to fill your kitchen with warm and cozy aromas, and every bite will be totally delish.

Get the Recipe @ gimmesomeoven


Take a culinary journey with this classic Reuben Casserole, and let your taste buds explore the flavor-packed layers!

Buttery pumpernickel, melty Swiss cheese, succulent corned beef, tart sauerkraut are all smothered in delicious reuben sauce. Don’t miss out on this amazing dish!

Get the Recipe @ pinchofyum


If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to use up those leftovers, look no further than classic Corned Beef Hash.

Satisfy your cravings with tender corned beef combined with fluffy potatoes, savory caramelized onions – all perfectly sautéed together until extra crispy!

It’s sure to be an enjoyable comfort meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Get the Recipe @ willcookforsmiles


Enjoy a classic sandwich reimagined in these tasty Reuben Sliders! Savory pastrami, melted Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut come together on soft slider buns finished with a scrumptious glaze.

It’s one of our favorite corned beef recipes.

Get the Recipe @ thecountrycook


Make your taste buds happy with delectable Reuben Pinwheels!

Experience the tangy combination of corned beef, sauerkraut and creamy cheese blended together by their loyal companion, Thousand Island dressing.

Ready in no time flat to star at any party, these pinwheels are sure to bring smiles all around!

Get the Recipe @ bellyfull


Gather around for a Reuben Pizza that’ll tantalize the senses, and please even picky eaters!

This delectable dish is sure to satisfy any rumbling stomachs with its scrumptious combination of salty, savory meats mixed with gooey melted cheese atop your favorite pizza crust.

Get ready for an unforgettable dinner when you take this easy-to-make family meal from oven to table.

Get the Recipe @ spendwithpennies


Treat your taste buds to a beautiful union of Shepherd’s Pie and Corned Beef Hash!

Enjoy the rich flavor of corned beef layered between mashed potatoes, cheese, and all the other delicious ingredients. You can use leftovers or canned corned beef, it still tastes great!

Get the Recipe @ seasonsandsuppers


Surprise guests with an irresistible hot dip made up of classic Reuben sandwich ingredients like corned beef, sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing.

Enjoy the delicious flavor combination in a new way. It’s one of our favorite corned beef recipes!

Get the Recipe @ dinneratthezoo


Give your St. Patrick’s Day leftovers new life with these tasty Corned Beef and Cabbage Quesadillas!

A flavor-filled fusion that is sure to please, it’s also one of the easiest corned beef recipes ever.

Get the Recipe @ familyfreshmeals


Looking for a twist on traditional tacos? Try this savory Irish corned beef recipe!

Enjoy the tenderness of slow-cooked, melt in your mouth corned beef with unique toppings that’ll tantalize even the most sophisticated palate. Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed!

Get the Recipe @ xoxobella


For a deliciously different take on fried rice, try this unique corned beef recipe!

It’s one of our favorite ways to use up those leftovers.

Get the Recipe @ mantitlement


Treat your taste buds to Reuben Egg Rolls this St. Patrick’s Day!

These tasty appetizers are made with corned beef, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut all fried to a delightful crispness and served with Thousand Island dressing. Enjoy these delicious bites today!

Get the Recipe @ willcookforsmiles


Enjoy the flavors of a Reuben sandwich in one-pot with this 30 minute meal!

With corned beef, cabbage, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, you won’t miss the bread for this low carb option.

It’ll make your weeknights easier AND more delicious!

Get the Recipe @ evolvingtable


Treat yourself to a freshly prepared and golden-crusted Corned Beef Stromboli with ease.

Using store-bought pizza dough, cooked in the air fryer, results in an unbeatable taste that’s ready faster than ever.

Get the Recipe @ spicysouthernkitchen


This Dutch Oven Corned Beef recipe is a must-try! It’s an effortless dish that yields succulent, juicy beef and perfectly cooked veggies bursting with flavor.

You’ll love the results – it may even become one of your signature dishes.

Get the Recipe @ wendypolisi


For those looking for a flavorful yet affordable meal option, Puerto Rican corned beef hash is the perfect choice!

The dish utilizes simple ingredients to create an explosion of bold flavors that make it one of the most popular dishes in Puerto Rico.

Get the Recipe @ latinamommeals


This recipe for Irish Nachos brings the best ingredients, including potato chips, swiss cheese, sauerkraut, corned beef and homemade beer cheese sauce together to create a dazzling experience.

To top it off, garnish generously with thousand island dressing. Unique crowd pleaser for get-togethers.

Get the Recipe @ thewanderlustkitchen


Treat yourself to a festive brunch featuring rich and flavorful Irish staples like rye, corned beef, and sauerkraut.

All is topped off with a velvety Thousand Island Hollandaise sauce poured over perfectly poached eggs!

Get the Recipe @ macheesmo


Spice up your St. Patrick’s Day leftovers with a delicious reuben boxty!

This flavorful Irish-style potato pancake packs in corned beef, sauerkraut and swiss cheese topped off with creamy Russian dressing for the perfect indulgent meal.

Get the Recipe @ closetcooking


Take breakfast to the next level with this inspired omelet!

An ingenious pairing of eggs and corned beef hash, it’s not only a delicious way to start your day but also an easy recipe for using up leftover ingredients.

It’ll become one of your favorite corned beef recipes.

Get the Recipe @ simplyrecipes


Transform Reuben sandwiches into a party-ready appetizer with these golden, tasty Reuben Fritters!

Perfectly mashed potatoes are combined with delicious corned beef, swiss cheese and sauerkraut to form the base. Then they’re rolled in Panko crumbs before getting fried to crispy perfection.

Serious Yum!

Get the Recipe @ spicysouthernkitchen


Enjoy a delicious punch of flavor with Corned Beef Poutine – an Irish twist on the classic favorite.

A creamy Guinness gravy and tangy cheese curds provide layers of blissful taste that you won’t be able to get enough of.

It’s one of the most ingenious corned beef recipes out there!

Get the Recipe @ cakenknife


Deliciously combining the classic flavors of a Reuben Sandwich, this unique pasta salad is sure to make an impression!

Corned beef and swiss combine with sauerkraut and pickles under one simple thousand islands dressing.

Add it to your next potluck menu, it’s sure to draw raves!

Get the Recipe @ spendwithpennies


Make your St. Patrick’s Day celebration stand out with these delicious Reuben Crescent Rolls!

They come together quickly and easily, leaving more time for celebrating the luck of the Irish. These fun-to-eat appetizers or dinner rolls are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering!

Get the Recipe @ simplejoy


Enjoy the sizzling tastes of a Reuben sandwich reinvented as an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer!

This Pull Apart Reuben Bread takes all its signature flavors and blends them together to create a unique delicacy that’s sure to be loved by everyone.

Get the Recipe @ neighborfoodblog


Guests at your next gathering will be delighted by these savory Beer Puffs – an easy and irresistible appetizer with a sensational corned beef filling.

Serve them up to leave everyone’s taste buds wanting more!

Get the Recipe @ recipegirl


Treat yourself to the timeless flavor of a classic Reuben sandwich, baked right into potatoes!

This tasty combination of corned beef, sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

It’s one of our favorite corned beef recipes!

Get the Recipe @ thefoodcharlatan


We started this list of corned beef recipes with the slowest method, and we’re ending with the fastest.

Impress your guests with an effortlessly delicious meal this St. Patrick’s Day by making Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage! This hearty dish boasts succulent beef, flavorful cabbage, and tender potatoes that are sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone around the table.

All in about an hour and a half!

Get the Recipe @ therecipecritic


So there you go, thirty great corned beef recipes for you to try. Don’t they all look delicious? Which ones will make their way into your regular rotation?

Save or pin this collection of amazing dishes so you always know where to find it. And be sure to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new easy recipes for you!

Check out these other great recipe collections!
Irish Recipes
Cabbage Recipes
Beef Recipes
Dutch Oven Recipes
Crockpot Recipes

Ingredients

Reuben

  • 8 slices rye bread
  • 1 lb corned beef, sliced
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
  • 8 slices swiss cheese
  • 4 Tbsp butter, softened

Russian Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 Tbsp chili sauce
  • 2 tsp horseradish
  • 2 tsp sweet pickle relish

Instructions

  1. First, mix all ingredient for Russian dressing in a bowl and set aside.
  2. Heat your corned beef. This is optional, but as it is a fatty cut of meat I like it hot. 45-60 seconds in the microwave should do.
  3. Butter one side of each bread slice and place butter side down.
  4. Atop four of the slices, layer cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut and dressing. Place remaining bread slices on top, buttered sides up.
  5. Preheat skillet over medium high heat. Lay sandwiches in skillet and grill 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove and serve hot!

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21 Easy Dinner Recipes for Two

21 Easy Dinner Recipes for Two

Let’s be honest here: Once the kids are finally asleep, the last thing you want to do is spend forever in the kitchen concocting an elaborate meal—but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice enjoying a hearty homemade dinner. Choosing something you can simply simmer on the stove or bake in the oven while putting your little ones to bed is one way to solve this dilemma. Fortunately, we’ve found some delicious dinner recipes for two that fit the bill and that you’ll want to try ASAP. 

These recipes are perfect for enjoying a peaceful dinner with your partner without needing to spend a ton of extra time cooking at the end of a long day. From comforting classics to unique must-trys, we have something to suit every taste and mood. So kick back, relax, and let us take care of dinner tonight: Here are 21 easy-to-make dinner recipes for two that you can whip up after the bedtime routine is complete. 

 

This delicious recipe uses super simple ingredients and is perfect to keep simmering on the stove while you take care of your nightly bedtime duties. 

 

Toss this tasty salmon in the oven and pair with the accompanying couscous salad for an easy dinner you and your partner are sure to enjoy.

 

If you’re looking for some bright and bold flavors, try out this one-pot curry that practically does all the cooking for you. Pro tip: Use frozen shrimp to make it even easier!

 

This healthy and unique pasta dish only takes about 10 minutes to cook and can sit on a low-heat stove to keep warm so it’s ready to eat when you’re done putting the kiddos to bed. 

pasta primavera recipe

Source: Bless This Mess

 

Enchiladas are a 10/10 go-to meal for something you can quickly throw together and toss in the oven. Plus, they always make for amazing leftovers—I know we’re talking dinner recipes for two, but who doesn’t love delicious leftovers?

chicken enchilada recipe

Source: Eat the Gains

 

This is a fun vegetarian option that’s much easier to make than it may seem, with a super easy prep process and the ability to quickly pop it into the oven.

cauliflower bake recipe

Source: Rachl Mansfield

 

If you and your partner are craving the ultimate comfort meal, you can’t go wrong with a classic chicken noodle soup that requires nothing more than a handful of ingredients and a good long simmer.

chicken noodle soup recipe

Source: Precious Core

 

All you have to do for this tasty one-pot stew is let the ingredients cook for about 20 minutes, then toss in your spinach and serve. 

bean and tomato stew recipe

Source: A Saucy Kitchen

 

We absolutely love the simplicity of a one-pan meal, and this to-die-for pork tenderloin and veggies recipe keeps things easy with a 25-minute cook time.

 

If you and your partner are in the mood for Italian, try out this recipe that’s ready to go after just 30 minutes of stovetop simmering. 

red pepper and sausage Alfredo recipe

Source: Host the Toast

 

With nothing more than a single pan and a couple stirs here and there, this recipe will satisfy that take-out craving you have after a long day.

 

Tacos and pasta? Yes, please. You’ll love this funky pasta recipe that practically cooks itself in your Instant Pot. 

cheesy pasta recipe

Source: Damn Delicious

 

All you have to do is toss your ingredients in a pot and turn on your rice cooker to have a healthy, hearty dinner waiting for you once the kids are asleep. 

potato curry recipe

Source: Well Plated

 

Kick your oven-baked chicken up a notch with this one-pan Greek-inspired recipe that pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine for the ultimate dinner for two. 

greek sheet pan chicken

Source: I Heart Naptime

 

With a couple hours, some frozen meatballs, and a few simple ingredients for the glaze, you can have a sweet and tangy entree ready to serve with any side of your choosing.

teriyaki meatball recipe

Source: Bless This Mess

 

This recipe went viral on TikTok for good reason. By tossing just a handful of ingredients in the oven, you’ll have a rich and savory dish that’s sure to become a dinnertime go-to for you and partner.

baked feta pasta

Source: Cooking Classy

 

Butter chicken is absolutely delicious, and this effortless Instant Pot recipe will allow you to make it in no time at all. Bonus tip: Serve it with Trader Joe’s frozen naan! 

 

Meatless meatloaf? It may sound unusual, but don’t knock it ’til you try it. For anyone following a plant-based diet, this recipe is a great pick for a quick and easy hearty meal.

vegan meatloaf

Source: Detoxinista

 

Soup is the perfect dish to let cook as you’re tucking the kiddos into bed, and this roasted sweet potato recipe is ideal as an effortlessly tasty weeknight dinner for two. 

sweet potato soup recipe

Source: A Classic Twist

 

Simple and elegant, this lemon chicken piccata comes together in just 30 minutes. The recipe can be easily halved to feed two, or you can save the extras for leftovers later in the week. 

meals for two

Source: Damn Delicious

 

Comforting, flavorful, and hassle-free, there’s no better way to end your day than with this one-pot gumbo that will definitely become a new go-to in your household. 

shrimp and chicken gumbo

Source: With Salt & Wit

20 Recipes to Step Up Your At-Home Pizza Nights

This Irish Cream Mudslide Cocktail Recipe Will Help You Slide Into St. Patrick’s Day | Irish Recipes

This Irish Cream Mudslide Cocktail Recipe Will Help You Slide Into St. Patrick’s Day | Irish Recipes


St. Patrick’s Day, or the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a religious and cultural celebration held on March 17, the date that Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland, passed away. I love Ireland and can’t say enough about my time on the Emerald Isle. I am part Irish, but that’s not why. When I was 19 I studied for a semester in England and spent time in Ireland as well. I visited both Dublin and the countryside. In both locations I found the people kind, friendly, happy, full of life, family-focused, dedicated to their communities and always up for a good time.


I also appreciate the “feel” of Ireland. I’ve visited twice more since that first time and have been to the Cliffs of Mohr, Galway, Cork, Blarney and more. I appreciate the laid-back feeling of Ireland, something I don’t feel in the U.S. (except for maybe when I’m on a beach on vacation!). The Irish seem to put family and enjoying life, truly living each day to the fullest, above work, something that I don’t think we Americans are particularly good at. I also love that it’s possible to see nearly the entire country during one’s vacation!


When you think of Ireland and St. Patrick’s Day, you may picture four leaf clovers, beautiful farmland, sheep or Irish dancing. Maybe you think of Guinness. But there’s more to the Irish people and the Irish pub scene than Guinness. For instance, if you haven’t tried Irish cream liqueur, I highly recommend it. You might drink it on the rocks or add it to your coffee. It also makes a great cocktail ingredient.


This Irish cream mudslide cocktail recipe is one you should try. The creamy vodka cocktail is easy to make, delicious and such a lovely way to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day (said in an Irish brogue, of course).


Inside scoop: There’s no need to buy top shelf vodka for this drink. I think your money is better spent on a good Irish cream liqueur. The taste of a mudslide may mask its strength; a mudslide is nearly as strong as a margarita! Drink responsibly. Sláinte!


Cuisine: Irish

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 1


Ingredients


  • 1 – 1 1/2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce coffee liqueur
  • 1 ounce Irish cream liqueur (I prefer Bailey’s)


Here’s how to make it:


  1. Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  2. Shake!
  3. Strain into a rocks glass (also known as an old-fashioned or lowball glass) filled with fresh ice and serve (it’s better to pour the drink over ice rather than add ice after).


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Beat food price inflation with these budget-friendly, plant-based recipes

Beat food price inflation with these budget-friendly, plant-based recipes

When Toni Okamoto was starting her plant-based food journey, like many people, she thought eating healthy had to be expensive.

“I’ve been without a car at times, I’ve worked multiple jobs at times trying to make ends meet, I lived below the poverty line until just a few years ago, and I have found a way, specifically through meal planning, that has helped me get out of debt and become more financially free,” she told CBS News. 

Now, the blogger and social media star shares her money-saving meal tips with more than 570,000 Instagram followers. 

And with inflation affecting shopping staples like eggs and butter, her latest cookbook, “Plant-Based on a Budget: Quick and Easy” (out Tuesday, March 7), shows readers how to make 100 plant-based recipes that save you money and also time, from freezer-friendly and make-ahead breakfasts to one-pot and 30-minute meals. 

“I want to share that it doesn’t have to be a big to-do to incorporate healthier dishes into your family’s dinners, lunches and breakfasts,” she says. “When I think about meal planning, it can be overwhelming, and I wanted to share that it can be a mix of store bought and homemade so that you’re not having to cook from scratch and spend all day Sunday or every night of the week making something nourishing.”

Okamoto also brought her Mexican and Japanese backgrounds into the project with recipes like Sopa de Fideo, which she highlights as one of her favorites in the book. 

“It’s very simple. It’s very affordable. It’s filling, and I grew up eating that as a kid,” she says of the dish. “It reminds me of being a little girl, and I feel like I’m wrapped in a hug from my grandma.”

To help inspire some plant-based, budget-friendly meals in your home, here are 3 recipe excerpts from Okamoto’s book:

Hash Brown Veggie Breakfast Burritos

Makes 8 burritos | Ready in 20 minutes

Honestly, you can wrap just about anything in a tortilla and it will taste better. Tofu scramble is no exception. With the help of hash browns, refried beans, peppers, and spices, I’ve put a Mexican-inspired twist on this hearty burrito, but you’re welcome to change out this tofu scramble with the version from The Friendly Vegan Cookbook, or simply load up your tortilla with leftover cooked veggies, grains or salad.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 large yellow or red onion, diced
• 1/2 large red or green bell pepper, diced
• 4-5 cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 (14- to 16-ounce) package extra- or super-firm tofu, drained and pressed
• Salt, to taste
• 8 burrito-size flour tortillas
• 1 (15-ounce) can vegetarian refried beans

Optional additions and swaps:
• Swap the hash brown potatoes for tater tots
• Swap the oil for 1/4 cup water
• For spice, add 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes or 1 minced serrano pepper in step 2
• For more flavor, add 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika in step 3
• For a cheesy flavor, add 1 1/2 teaspoons nutritional yeast in step 3
• Add crumbled cooked Soyrizo in step 6
• Add vegan cheese in step 6

Optional additions for just before serving:
• Diced avocado
• Minced fresh cilantro
• Pico de gallo
• Your favorite salsa or tomatillo salsa 

hash-brown-veggie-breakfast-burritos.jpg
Burritos you can prepare and freeze for easy mornings? Sign us up! 

Courtesy of Toni Okamoto


Directions:
1. Cook the hash brown potatoes according to the package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms, and sauté until the bell pepper is tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and turmeric and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Using your fingers, crumble the tofu into the pan and sauté until the tofu is golden, 4 to 6 minutes. Season with salt.
5. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 15 seconds. (Alternatively, heat individual tortillas in another skillet over medium heat until warmed, about 1 minute.)
6. Slather a spoonful of refried beans onto each tortilla. Fill the tortillas with a generous scoop of the tofu filling and some hash brown potatoes. If you’re serving your burritos right away, you can add avocado, cilantro, pico de gallo, and/or salsa now and roll them up. If you’re freezing your burritos for later (see Toni’s tips), it’s best to add these ingredients after thawing. 

Toni’s tips:
When frozen and reheated, these taste as fresh and delicious as the day they were made. After they’ve completely cooled, wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil and place in a freezer bag or airtight container. Keep frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, unwrap and microwave for 3 minutes, flip, and then heat for 3 more minutes. If you don’t have a microwave, you can bake at 400 degrees for about 30 minutes, or until your burrito is heated through. 

Pesto Pasta

pesto-pasta.jpg
Pine nuts can be expensive. That’s why Toni Okamoto made a pesto recipe that allows for substitutions. 

Courtesy of Toni Okamoto


Serves 4 | Ready in 30 minutes

I love a recipe that allows you to work with ingredients you already have in your pantry, and this Pesto Pasta is just that. While typical pesto calls for expensive pine nuts, this version allows you to use more affordable and readily available pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, walnuts or other nuts you have on hand.

Ingredients:
• 1 (1-pound) package your favorite pasta
• 1 1/2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup your choice raw nuts or seeds (walnuts, shelled sunflower or pumpkin seeds, etc.)
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper, to taste

Optional additions and swaps:
• Swap the basil for parsley, spinach, arugula, or a combination of any of them
• For spice, add a pinch of red chili flakes in step 2
• Add 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast in step 2
• Add 2 cups your favorite steamed veggies in step 3

Directions:
1. In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until tender. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
2. Meanwhile, combine the basil, nuts or seeds, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a blender or food processor, and blend on high until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir the pesto in the pasta. Season with a few grinds of black pepper.

Toni’s tips:
Ice cube trays aren’t just for making ice; try using one to preserve your pesto! Triple or quadruple the pesto in this recipe, pour it into an ice cube tray, freeze it, then pop out your pesto cubes and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, in a medium pot, add 3 or 4 cubes (or more if you want extra flavor) to a serving of cooked pasta and heat over medium-high heat, stirring until they melt and become a sauce that evenly coats the pasta. 

Depression-Era Vanilla Cupcakes

depression-era-vanilla-cupcakes.jpg
Toni Okamoto’s Depression-era vanilla cupcakes skip eggs and dairy for a budget-friendly dessert. 

Courtesy of Toni Okamoto


Makes 12 cupcakes | Ready in 45 minutes

As the name suggests, this type of cake dates back to the Great Depression, when many Americans couldn’t find or afford typical baking ingredients like eggs and butter and had to get creative with pantry staples. I’m all about minimalist baking, so when a simple recipe with easy-to-find ingredients comes along, I hold on to it and never let go.

Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose or whole wheat flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white or apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup water

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a muffin tin with silicone or paper baking cups.
2. In the bowl of an electric mixer (or in a large bowl using a handheld electric mixer), mix together all the ingredients until smooth.
3. Fill each baking cup three-quarters full with batter.
4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting. 

Recipes: Bring On Dessert with Better-for-You Sweets

Recipes: Bring On Dessert with Better-for-You Sweets

If healthier eating holds a prominent spot on your list of goals, you may feel it’s necessary to eliminate some of your sweetest favorites. However, committing to a nutritionally friendly way of life doesn’t have to leave desserts by the wayside.

Instead, rethinking nighttime treats with better-for-you ingredients like California Prunes as a quick substitution can make healthier eating easy. As a versatile ingredient that can replace added sugar, fats and eggs in all kinds of recipes, prunes can also add nutrients important for bone and gut health.

Plus, the copper in prunes inhibits bone breakdown, while boron plays a role in calcium metabolism and polyphenols can help decrease bone breakdown through their antioxidant power. As a fruit that’s high in vitamin K, which helps improve calcium balance and promotes bone mineralization, prunes are also a “good gut food,” meaning a single serving (roughly 4-6 prunes) can help support a healthy microbiome.

They’re easy to use in recipes that can become favorites in your household such as these Chocolate Energy Balls. Enjoyed as an easy, on-the-go snack, they’re a perfect way to refuel for an adventure, recharge after a workout or to simply savor as a healthy snack.

Chocolate lovers rejoice: This rich, delicious, gluten-free, grain-free Chocolate Covered Prune Fudge Cake is naturally sweetened using prunes instead of added sugar. If brownies are more your style, prunes can also take the place of eggs in these Vegan Brownies for a family-friendly treat that won’t wreck your eating plan.

To find more better-for-you desserts, visit californiaprunes.org.

Vegan Brownies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 9

Prune Puree:
16 ounces pitted California prunes
1/2 cup hot water

Brownies:
nonstick cooking spray
6 ounces unsweetened chocolate
1/2 cup California extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups light brown sugar
10 ounces California prune puree
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
flaky sea salt, for garnish

To make prune puree: In blender, combine prunes and water. Pulse to combine then blend until smooth, pourable consistency forms, scraping sides, if necessary.

Store puree in airtight container in fridge up to 4 weeks.

To make brownies: Preheat oven to 350 F. Line 9-by-9-inch baking pan with parchment paper then lightly grease with nonstick cooking spray.

Using double boiler, melt chocolate and olive oil. Whisk in sugar and prune puree; mix until dissolved.

Into large bowl, sift flour, baking powder and cocoa powder. Gently fold in chocolate and prune mixture then add vanilla.

Spread batter in prepared pan, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and bake 20-25 minutes, or until top starts to look dry and brownies are just beginning to pull away from sides of pan.

Cool in pan. Remove then cut brownies into 3-inch squares.

Chocolate Covered Prune Fudge Cake
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Yield: 1 cake (8 inches)

Cake: 
Coconut oil spray
14 tablespoons butter, chopped
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup cocoa powder
10 soft, pitted prunes, chopped small 
1/3 cup maple syrup
6 eggs
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1 cup almond meal

Ganache:
1 cup full-fat coconut milk
1 1/3 cups dark chocolate morsels

To make cake: Preheat oven to 300 F. Lightly spray bottom and sides of 8-inch springform pan with coconut oil spray. Place round piece of parchment paper in bottom of pan and lightly spray with coconut oil spray.

In small saucepan over low heat, place butter and vanilla. Use sieve to sift cocoa into saucepan. Stir with spatula until completely smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.

In bowl of food processor fitted with “S” blade, place prunes and syrup. Top with cooled butter mixture then process until smooth. Transfer to large mixing bowl, scraping all chocolate mixture from food processor with spatula.

In bowl of stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment, whip eggs and coconut sugar on high speed 7 minutes, or until tripled in volume.

Add one-third of egg mixture to bowl with chocolate mixture. Using spatula, gently fold together until completely combined. Add almond meal and remaining egg mixture to bowl and gently fold to combine.

Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 55 minutes, or until set. Once cooked through, transfer cake to cooling rack and cool completely in pan.

To make ganache: In top of double boiler, melt coconut milk and dark chocolate until completely smooth. Pour prepared ganache over cake. Serve immediately for molten fudge effect or allow to completely set.

Chocolate Energy Balls
Recipe courtesy of Meg van der Kruik on behalf of California Prunes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 pieces

Prune Puree:
16 ounces pitted California prunes
1/2 cup hot water

Energy Balls:
1 cup old-fashioned or gluten-free oats
2/3 cup toasted, unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup creamy natural nut butter (peanut or almond)
1/2 cup pecan meal
1/2 cup prune puree
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To make prune puree: In blender, combine prunes and water. Pulse to combine then blend until smooth, pourable consistency forms, scraping sides, if necessary.

Store puree in airtight container in fridge up to 4 weeks.

To make energy balls: In mixing bowl, stir oats, coconut, nut butter, pecan meal, prune puree, cocoa powder and vanilla until completely combined.

Cover and chill in refrigerator 30 minutes. Once chilled, use small cookie scoop or measuring spoon to measure equal-sized amounts of mixture then form into balls by applying gentle pressure to dough using palms. Do not roll as balls will break apart.

Store covered in airtight container in refrigerator up to 1 week.


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A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com.


SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate