Author: John Dough

  • Authentic Mexican Guacamole

    Authentic Mexican Guacamole

    Indulge in the rich and creamy texture of a traditional Mexican favorite with this authentic guacamole recipe. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a simple snack, nothing beats the taste of freshly made guacamole. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a delicious dip ready to enjoy in just minutes.

    Ingredients:

    • 3 ripe Hass avocados
    • 1 finely chopped Roma tomato
    • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
    • 1 Jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
    • 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
    • 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)

    Instructions:

    1. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl.
    2. Using a fork, mash the avocados to your desired consistency — chunky or smooth.
    3. Add the chopped tomato, onion, cilantro, Jalapeño, and lime juice to the mashed avocado.
    4. Mix everything together gently, being careful not to mash the tomatoes.
    5. Season with salt, tasting and adjusting as necessary.
    6. If not serving immediately, cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent oxidation (browning).
    7. Serve with tortilla chips, or as a condiment to your favorite Mexican dishes.

    Tips:

    • For optimal flavor, use ripe avocados that yield to gentle pressure.
    • Customize your guacamole by adding garlic, extra Jalapeño, or a dash of ground cumin.
    • To keep the guacamole green, add the avocado pits back into the bowl until you’re ready to serve.

    Embrace the essence of Mexican cuisine with this simple yet delicious guacamole recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!

  • Classic Cuban Sandwich Recipe

    Classic Cuban Sandwich Recipe

    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes

    Ingredients:

    • 1 Cuban bread loaf or a long French bread loaf
    • 1 pound sliced roast pork
    • 1 pound sliced ham
    • 8 slices of Swiss cheese
    • Dill pickles sliced lengthwise
    • Yellow mustard
    • Butter, for spreading

    Instructions:

    1. Begin by slicing your bread loaf in half lengthwise. Spread a layer of mustard on both halves of the bread.
    2. Layer the sliced ham on the bottom half of the bread.
    3. Add a layer of roasted pork over the ham.
    4. Arrange the Swiss cheese slices on top of the pork.
    5. Place the sliced pickles onto the cheese.
    6. Top with the other half of the bread and press the sandwich together gently.
    7. Heat a pan or a sandwich press over medium heat.
    8. Butter the outside of the sandwich or the press, then place the sandwich in the press or skillet.
    9. If using a skillet, place another heavy skillet or a clean brick wrapped in foil on top of the sandwich to press it down.
    10. Cook the sandwich for about 3 to 5 minutes per side or until the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted.
    11. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for a minute before slicing.
    12. Cut the sandwich diagonally and serve immediately.

    Notes:

    • The key to a great Cuban sandwich is to press it well, which compacts the sandwich and results in a crispy exterior with melted cheese.
    • If you don’t have a sandwich press, a heavy pan or a panini press will work just fine.
    • For authentic flavor, use Cuban-style roast pork, which is marinated in mojo sauce.

    Enjoy your homemade Cuban Sandwich with a side of plantain chips or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal!

  • Easy Chicken Teriyaki Bowl

    Easy Chicken Teriyaki Bowl

    Bringing the flavors of Japan to your kitchen, this Chicken Teriyaki Bowl is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and umami. In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal that’s both satisfying and quick to make.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
    • 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
    • 2 cups cooked rice
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
    • 1 cup broccoli florets
    • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 small carrot, julienned
    • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
    • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Start by marinating the chicken pieces in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
    2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the pan, reserving the excess marinade for later. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, then set aside.
    3. In the same pan, add the broccoli, red bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté the vegetables until they’re tender-crisp, approximately 3-4 minutes.
    4. While the vegetables are cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, and allow it to reduce until it thickens into a sauce, about 5 minutes.
    5. Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with the cooked chicken and vegetables.
    6. Drizzle the reduced teriyaki sauce over the bowls.
    7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
    8. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Chicken Teriyaki Bowl!

    Tips:

    • For a healthier version, you can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
    • Add your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand to make it your own.
    • If you’d like a spicier dish, add a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

    There you have it, a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week. This Chicken Teriyaki Bowl is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!

  • Savory Beef and Mushroom Zoodle Bowl

    Savory Beef and Mushroom Zoodle Bowl

    If you’re looking for a nutritious dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, then you’ve come to the right place. Our Beef and Mushroom Zoodle Bowl is not only packed with protein and veggies, but is also a delightful low-carb option. Using zucchini noodles (zoodles) as a substitute for pasta, this dish is both gluten-free and keto-friendly, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
    • 300g (about 10oz) beef steak, thinly sliced
    • 200g (about 7oz) mushrooms, sliced
    • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

    Instructions:

    1. Prepare the zucchini noodles using a spiralizer or julienne peeler and set them aside.
    2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the sliced mushrooms and onions. Sauté until they are soft and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    4. Return the beef to the skillet with the mushrooms and onions. Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
    5. Finally, add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss to combine with the beef and mushroom mixture and heat through for about 1-2 minutes – be careful not to overcook the zoodles to prevent them from getting too soft.
    6. Divide the mixture into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions, whichever you prefer.

    Cooking Tips:

    • The key to avoiding soggy zoodles is to cook them just until they’re heated through—if they cook too long, they will release water and lose their bite.
    • Feel free to customize your bowl by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
    • For extra flavor, marinate the beef in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and some minced garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

    Nutrition Note:

    This Beef and Mushroom Zoodle Bowl is an excellent source of protein and essential vitamins thanks to the beef, mushrooms, and zucchini. By switching out traditional noodles for zoodles, you’re getting fewer carbohydrates and calories without sacrificing the satisfaction of a delicious meal.

    Enjoy this guilt-free and comforting Beef and Mushroom Zoodle Bowl anytime you’re in the mood for a dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Buon appetito!

  • Angolan Muamba de Galinha – A Traditional Chicken Stew

    Angolan Muamba de Galinha – A Traditional Chicken Stew

    Muamba de Galinha (also sometimes spelled ‘Moamba’ or ‘Muamba’) is a classic Angolan dish that is hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. It’s made with ingredients that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Angola, combining chicken with spices, vegetables, and palm oil. This recipe will take you on a journey to Central Africa and show you how to create an authentic taste of Angola in your kitchen.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
    • 3 tablespoons of palm oil (or a neutral oil as a substitute)
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 large onion, chopped
    • 3 tomatoes, peeled and chopped
    • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
    • 1 eggplant, cubed
    • 1 okra, sliced
    • 2 chili peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
    • 1 bundle of fresh basil leaves, chopped
    • Salt to taste
    • 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
    • 2 cups chicken broth

    Instructions:

    1. In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides.
    2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onions to the pot. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 3 minutes.
    3. Introduce the chopped tomatoes and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly.
    4. Add the butternut squash, eggplant, okra, and chili peppers to the pot. Stir to combine.
    5. Season the mixture with salt and ground turmeric, mixing well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
    6. Pour the chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
    7. Cover the pot and allow the stew to cook for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
    8. A few minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the chopped basil leaves to the pot for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
    9. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
    10. Serve your Muamba de Galinha hot, accompanied by rice or funge (a traditional Angolan side dish made from cassava flour).

    This dish’s unique taste comes from the palm oil and the combination of fresh aromatic herbs and spices. Muamba de Galinha is an excellent example of Angola’s flavorful and diverse cuisine, and an ideal meal to explore the tastes of Africa from the comfort of your home.

    Preparation Time: 15 minutes
    Cooking Time: 45 minutes
    Total Time: 1 hour

    Tips:

    • If palm oil is unavailable or you prefer not to use it, vegetable oil can be used as a substitute, although the dish’s traditional flavor will be slightly altered.
    • For a thicker sauce, some recipes include a spoonful of peanut butter or a small can of tomato paste.
    • Adjust the quantity of chili peppers based on your preference for spice levels.
    • To make this dish more authentic, try serving it with traditional side dishes from Angola such as funge or pirão (a dish similar to polenta).

    Enjoy your homemade Muamba de Galinha and the rich, warming flavors that it brings to your table!

  • Delicious Greek Yogurt Parfait – A Healthy Treat

    Delicious Greek Yogurt Parfait – A Healthy Treat

    There’s nothing better than starting your day with a delicious and healthy Greek Yogurt Parfait. This layered delight is perfect for breakfast, as a mid-day snack, or even as a lighter dessert options. It’s packed with protein, probiotics, and plenty of flavor. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to create your own parfait masterpiece.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 cups Greek yogurt
    • 1 cup granola
    • 2 cups mixed fresh fruits (berries, banana slices, and kiwi work well)
    • 4 tablespoons honey or to taste
    • A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Start by selecting your glass or bowl in which you will layer your parfait.
    2. Spoon a layer of Greek yogurt into the bottom of your selected dishes.
    3. Add a layer of granola on top of the yogurt, adding a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
    4. Arrange a layer of mixed fruits over the granola.
    5. Drizzle a tablespoon of honey over the fruits and add a light sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
    6. Repeat the layering process until the glass is filled to the top, ensuring you finish with a layer of fruit and an additional drizzle of honey for presentation.
    7. You may also want to garnish with a few whole berries or a mint leaf for an added touch of elegance.

    Be sure to vary the fruits according to season and your preference to keep your parfaits exciting each time you make them. The key to the perfect parfait is the balance of textures and flavors, so feel free to get creative! Enjoy it right away to maintain the granola’s crunchiness.

    Nutrition Benefits:

    Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein, which helps in muscle repair and growth, while the probiotics are great for your digestion. Fresh fruits add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your diet. Granola, when chosen wisely (watch out for high sugar content), can offer wholesome grains and nuts, providing an extra nutrient boost.

    In just a few minutes, you’ve created a visually appealing and nutritional powerhouse that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and fuel your body for the day ahead. Enjoy your homemade Greek Yogurt Parfait!

  • How to Make Canadian BeaverTails at Home

    Canadian BeaverTails Recipe

    BeaverTails, a beloved Canadian pastry, are hand-stretched to resemble the tail of a beaver, one of Canada’s national symbols. These fried dough pastries, typically topped with a variety of sweet garnishes, are a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent treats. Here’s how you can make BeaverTails at home.

    Ingredients:

    • 1/2 cup of warm water
    • 5 tablespoons of sugar, divided
    • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
    • 1/2 cup of warm milk
    • 1/3 cup of melted butter
    • 1 teaspoon of salt
    • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
    • 2 eggs
    • 3 cups of all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading
    • Vegetable oil, for frying
    • Your choice of toppings: cinnamon sugar, Nutella, peanut butter, jam, etc.

    Instructions:

    1. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until frothy.
    2. Add the warm milk, remaining sugar, melted butter, salt, vanilla, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
    3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough starts to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately an hour.
    5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 10-12 pieces and let them rest for a few minutes.
    6. Using your hands, stretch each piece of dough into an oval shape resembling a beaver’s tail, about 1/4 inch thick.
    7. Heat a few inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 365°F (185°C).
    8. Fry each piece of dough for about 2 minutes on each side or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Ensure not to crowd the pan. Use tongs to transfer the fried pastries to a paper towel-lined plate.
    9. While still warm, top your BeaverTails with your desired toppings.

    Topping Ideas:

    • Cinnamon Sugar: Mix 1/2 cup of sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and sprinkle over the warm BeaverTails.
    • Chocolate Spread: Spread Nutella or any chocolate-hazelnut spread over the warm BeaverTails and add a dollop of whipped cream.
    • Peanut Butter & Jam: Spread peanut butter over the BeaverTails and swirl in some jam.

    Tips:

    • For a healthier version, you can try baking the BeaverTails at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden brown, though the texture will differ from the traditional fried version.
    • Be creative with your toppings, and feel free to mix and match to suit your taste.

    Enjoy your homemade Canadian BeaverTails and share this sweet experience with family and friends!

  • Savory Chicken Piccata Pasta

    Introduction

    Chicken Piccata is a traditional Italian dish that has won the hearts of many with its bright and zesty flavors. In this recipe, we’re marrying the classic chicken piccata with pasta to create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s simple enough for a family dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests.

    Ingredients

    • 2 chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
    • 1 lemon, juiced
    • 1 lemon, sliced
    • 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
    • 8 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)

    Instructions

    1. Begin by cooking pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour, shaking off the excess.
    3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
    4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
    5. Add the lemon juice, lemon slices, and capers to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce for 2 minutes.
    6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted and smooth.
    7. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them back to the skillet, tossing in the sauce to coat.
    8. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce, combining until the pasta is well coated.
    9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

    Notes

    • Be sure to rinse the capers to remove any excess brine, which could make the dish too salty.
    • If the sauce is too tart for your taste, adjust by adding a little extra butter or a splash of heavy cream.
    • Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for an extra touch of flavor.

    Conclusion

    Chicken Piccata Pasta is a delightful dish that’s sure to please. The brightness of the lemon and the salty pop of the capers create a harmonious balance with the buttery sauce. This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine. Enjoy this delectable dish any night of the week for a dinner that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

  • Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers Recipe

    Ingredients:

    • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
    • 1 pineapple, cut into chunks
    • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
    • 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
    • 1 red onion, cut into chunks
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Wooden or metal skewers

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
    2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
    3. Place the shrimp in the marinade, toss to coat evenly, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
    4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
    5. Alternate threading the shrimp, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers.
    6. Grease the grill grates with a little oil to prevent sticking.
    7. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp is opaque and the vegetables have a nice char.
    8. Brush the leftover marinade over the skewers during the last couple of minutes of cooking.
    9. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
    10. Serve the shrimp and pineapple skewers hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

    Cooking Tips:

    • Ensure all the shrimp are approximately the same size for even cooking.
    • Cut the pineapple and vegetables in uniform size to match the cooking time of the shrimp.
    • Marinating the shrimp for too long can make it mushy due to the pineapple’s natural enzymes, so stick to the recommended time.

    Nutritional Information:

    Per Serving: Calories: 215; Total Fat: 5.4g; Saturated Fat: 0.8g; Cholesterol: 172mg; Sodium: 330mg; Total Carbohydrates: 22g; Dietary Fiber: 2.6g; Sugars: 15.4g; Protein: 18g.

    Conclusion:

    Enjoy these colorful Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers as a main dish or appetizer at your next barbecue or summer gathering. The sweet and savory combination will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise!

  • Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

    Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

    Experience a taste of Italy with these mouth-watering Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. Combining the classic flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a balsamic glaze, this dish is a simple yet impressive way to start a meal or enjoy a lighter entrée.

    Ingredients:

    • 4 large portobello mushroom caps
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
    • Fresh basil leaves, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Clean the portobello mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp paper towel. Remove the stems and scrape out the gills with a spoon. Season the inside of each mushroom with salt and pepper.
    3. Drizzle the mushrooms with olive oil and place them cap-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    4. Bake the mushrooms in the preheated oven for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their moisture.
    5. In a bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes and cubed mozzarella cheese with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
    6. Remove the mushrooms from the oven and fill each cap with a generous amount of the tomato and mozzarella mixture.
    7. Return the stuffed mushrooms to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    8. Once done, remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
    9. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

    Tips:

    • To prevent the mushrooms from becoming too soggy, avoid rinsing them in water; instead, clean them dry as instructed above.
    • For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the mushroom caps in balsamic vinegar and olive oil before stuffing.
    • If you prefer, you can grill the portobello mushrooms instead of baking them, just be cautious that they don’t burn.

    These Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are sure to bring a touch of Mediterranean flair to your dinner table. Bon appétit!