Cooking Vegan for Lent: Eggplant Stew

by Kitchen Shaman | Apr 5, 2017 | Recipes, Sauces, Videos

While cooking professionally I worked in plenty of kitchens where meatless Fridays were observed. Friday Fish Frys and tuna salad were items that were prepared in huge quantities. Not being Catholic, I never quite understood the ritual of not eating meat on Fridays, but as a cook, I made the food that I was directed to prepare.

At the Deli, vast quantities of Tuna Salad were consumed. We were located in a catholic neighborhood and owned by Catholics. When working at the Brewery we could count on the owner, glass of beer in hand, laying down battered fish in the fryer. He was also a staunch Catholic.

While I've remained confused and uneducated about the abstinence and fasting rules, I am now cooking for people who observe the Season of Lent. This is a perfect opportunity to introduce them to 100% vegan food, and learn more about this religious observance.

Evolution of a Recipe

by Kitchen Shaman | Jul 11, 2014 | Process

I’m not sure what you think about the recipes you find on the internet. Many food bloggers find recipes they like and re-share them. Some develop recipes and share them right away. Coming from the culinary industry, I have been a part of a culture that develops recipes and passes them on verbally, chef to chef. We don’t stop cooking to write something down; we tell each other. And that is how you end up with some meals on your plate when you go out to eat. The cook making that food learned it from the guy standing next to him, who learned it from a chef, and so on. read more

Eggplant Heaven, Baingan Bharta

by Kitchen Shaman | Oct 25, 2011 | Entree, Recipes

If you are a fan of eggplant, like I am, this traditional Indian dish will satisfy the cravings on any given day. Easy to make, it is a winner at the table every time. Make sure to check your pantry for the essential spices, turmeric, cumin, asefoetida (hing), and coriander.

Play with Your Food: Eggplant & Zucchini Towers

by Kitchen Shaman | Oct 4, 2011 | Entree, Recipes, Vegan Mofo

Lately I've been on a kick with making Veggie, or Eggplant Towers. Don't ask me why, it just came to me. I used to make them when I worked in Banquets a few years back, but I lacked the level of inspiration I have now. Inspiration led me to add Quinoa and Daiya Mozzerella style Cheese.

How to Name Recipes? Eggplant Mung bean Drumsticky Stuff?

by Kitchen Shaman | Aug 24, 2011 | Entree, Recipes

There has been an abundance of eggplant here in the Valley of the Sun, so I thought I’d make a vegetable dish without using the cookbook. I followed steps I’ve learned, toasting the seed spices, soaking tamarind, and stacking flavors. I found a name for this recipe, and I think I like it. Let me know if you do.

You are probably wondering how to find some of the ingredients I use in this recipe. I have the advantage of having a Vietnamese Grocer several blocks from the house. I can buy some of the specialty items there, split mung beans and eggplant especially. For the bulk spices I go to the Herbalist down the street. They carry a decent supply of fresh herbs and spices. Their cumin is fantastic. When I need to find the exotic, there is a super chain called LeeLees that specializes in International foods. They have a great produce section as well as a selection of the Indian Spices I use. If you can’t find some of these ingredients in your market, check online, there are several reputable companies with reasonable prices. read more

Eggplant and tofu are friends

by Kitchen Shaman | Mar 23, 2011 | Recipes, Tofu

Here's a great protein packed and flavorful dish featuring eggplant and tofu. It's sure to please your friends and family. It tends to be on the salty side, but it will satisfy even a hearty appetite.

Tag: eggplant