Seattle!
PVP pretty much sez. it all...
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Dandelion and Black-Bean Soup
Prepare 1 bunch dandelion leaves . How? Well, it depends on how tender they are, but basically Remove the bottom 2" or so of the stems Wash thoroughly. Really. Odds are that there is more dirt on them than you can shake a stick at Chop finely. The finer you chop it, the more the flavors will integrate later. (And yeah, you're chopping the leaves and remaining stems...) Heat 1 tbsp oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and saute briefly till it crackles and sputters. Add in 1/2 tsp turmeric 1/2 tsp chilli powder 1/2 finely chopped jalapeno and saute for around 10 seconds till everything sizzles. If the mix is a bit dry, you might want to add another teaspoon or two of oil. Or not. Up to you. Add the chopped dandelion leaves from above, turn the heat up, and stir well till the leaves have completely wilted - around 15 seconds or so. Add 1 can black beans , drained and thoroughly rinsed....
Fun with Sundal (aka: "desi" chickpea salad)
Take 1 cup "desi" chickpeas and cook 'em. How? Well, use your favorite bean cooking method, but it'll probably come down to something as follows Soak overnight in plenty of water (or, alternatively, bring to a boil, cover, turn off the heat, and let it sit for an hour) Discard the water, and rinse repeatedly till the water runs clear Saucepan + salt + water (about 2" over the chickpeas), and simmer till done - about 1.5 hrs (or 25" in a pressure cooker, 'tis what I do) As a bonus, while simmering, toss in a few pieces of Kombu for an awesome umami kick Drain when done (and discard, or eat, the kombu!) In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup diced mangoes 1/2 cup shredded coconut (not the dried kind. You can probably get this frozen :-) 2 chopped thai chillies (or more. or less. up to you) Set this aside for a wee bit while you prepare the chickpeas In a saucepan over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp oil and 1 tsp mustard seeds , till the seeds are don...
Chinese food containers...and plates
My "Holy F**k" moment of the day (or is that a #HeadDesk? Whatever...) - the realization that chinese food containers, actually fold out into plates . Argh! How did I not know this? HOW? Sigh. Incidentally, whats worse is that it folds right back up into a container, that you can stick in the fridge. Argh!
