| Easy Homemade Harissa Sauce |
Harissa is a versatile North African red chile paste or sauce mad... |
North African, Mediterranean, spicy, sauce, condiment, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb |
{"title":"Easy Homemade Harissa Sauce","description":"Harissa is a versatile North African red chile paste or sauce made from simple ingredients such as chiles, garlic, olive oil, citrus, and warm spices. It is slightly sweet, smoky, tangy, and perfectly spicy without being too hot. This harissa can be made in advance to be used in various dishes.","short_description":"A versatile North African chile paste perfect for adding spice to any dish.","components":[{"name":"Harissa Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"Dried New Mexico chiles","quantity":"7 whole chiles (or a combination with other dried hot chiles such as de arbol or chipotle)","preparation_notes":"Soak and seed","substitutions":["Guajillo chiles"]},{"name":"Roasted red peppers","quantity":"6 ounces or 2 large peppers, jarred","preparation_notes":"Drained","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Tomato paste","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic cloves","quantity":"4 large cloves","preparation_notes":"Peeled","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Caraway seeds","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"Toasted and ground","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground coriander","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground cumin","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Smoked paprika","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cayenne pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Kosher salt","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Lemon juice","quantity":"2 tablespoons (juice of 1 large lemon)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Extra virgin olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons plus more for storage","preparation_notes":"Use quality EVOO","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Food processor"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Soak the dried chiles in hot water for 30 minutes until tender and re-hydrated. Drain and remove stems and seeds.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"In a food processor, combine the chiles with roasted red peppers, garlic, tomato paste, caraway seeds, coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Run the processor, drizzling olive oil from the top. Scrape down the sides and process until a paste-like texture is achieved.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Transfer to a mason jar and cover with a layer of extra virgin olive oil. Seal and refrigerate.","tips":"Allow flavors to develop for 1-2 days in the fridge for best taste."}]}],"prep_time":"40 minutes","cook_time":"0 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"24 tablespoons","tags":["North African","Mediterranean","spicy","sauce","condiment","vegan","gluten-free","dairy-free","low-carb"],"notes":"For best flavor, let the harissa sit in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before using. Each batch can vary in heat depending on the chiles used. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste.","background":"Harissa originated from Tunisia and is used widely across North African and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is often compared to ketchup in its versatility, but with a far more complex flavor profile.","nutrition":{"calories":"13.4","protein":"0.1g","fat":"1.3g","carbohydrates":"0.6g","fiber":"0.2g","sugar":"0.2g"},"serving_suggestions":"Use in soups, stews, on meats, or to spice up hummus or eggs.","storage":"Store in a mason jar in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Freeze in smaller portions for up to 1 month.","dietary_info":["Contains garlic"],"cooking_tips":["Soak peppers thoroughly to ensure easy blending.","Adjust spices to accommodate personal heat preference."],"variations":["Add chipotle chiles for a smoky flavor.","Use fresh chiles instead of dried for a different texture."],"ingredient_spotlight":"The use of New Mexico chiles brings mild heat and a distinct depth of flavor, ideal for controlling the spice level.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":7,"sour":4,"bitter":2,"umami":6},"geographic_region":"North Africa","seasonality":"Best in cooler seasons for warm dishes","sustainability_score":{"score":80,"details":"Use of local and seasonal peppers can enhance sustainability."},"occasion":"Suitable for everyday meals or as a special sauce for gatherings.","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":5,"recommended_pairings":["Grilled meats","Vegetable stews","Hummus"]} |
| Versatile Carnitas: 3 Cooking Methods |
Enjoy juicy and crispy Mexican pulled pork with this versatile ca... |
Fall, Winter, Dinner, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Whole30, Kid Friendly, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker |
{"title":"Versatile Carnitas: 3 Cooking Methods","description":"Enjoy juicy and crispy Mexican pulled pork with this versatile carnitas recipe that can be made using a slow-cooker, Dutch oven, or Instant Pot.","full_ingredient_list":["2 bay leaves","2 teaspoons dried oregano","2 teaspoons chili powder","2 teaspoons kosher salt","2 teaspoons cumin","1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper","\u00bc teaspoon cayenne pepper","1 medium yellow onion, quartered","Juice of 1 large orange and rind reserved","Juice of 1 lime","2 cups chicken stock","3 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 4-inch pieces"],"components":[{"name":"Carnitas","ingredients":[{"name":"bay leaves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried oregano","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"chili powder","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cumin","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly cracked black pepper","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cayenne pepper","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onion","quantity":"1 medium","preparation_notes":"quartered","substitutions":[]},{"name":"large orange","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"juiced, rind reserved","substitutions":[]},{"name":"lime","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"juiced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"chicken stock","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"boneless pork shoulder","quantity":"3 pounds","preparation_notes":"cut into 4-inch pieces","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large Dutch oven or slow cooker or Instant Pot","Slotted spoon","Large baking dish or rimmed sheet pan","Spatula"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine bay leaves, oregano, chili powder, salt, cumin, pepper, cayenne, onion, orange juice and rind, lime juice, and chicken stock in a large Dutch oven (or slow cooker\/Instant Pot).","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Nestle the pork shoulder in the mixture, cover, and cook: for a Dutch oven, roast at 375\u00b0F for 2\u00bd to 3 hours; in a slow cooker, cook on HIGH for 7-8 hours or LOW for 10-12 hours; in an Instant Pot, use pressure cook setting for 40 minutes, followed by 10-minute natural release.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Transfer cooked pork to a baking dish or sheet pan, discarding large fat pieces. Shred the pork with two forks. Brush with reserved cooking liquid.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Broil the shredded pork until edges are crispy and caramelized, about 5-8 minutes. Flip meat and broil again for 5 more minutes.","tips":""},{"step_number":5,"description":"Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to a month.","tips":"Broil before freezing for easier reheating later."}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"8 hours","total_time":"8 hours 15 minutes","servings":"10","tags":["Fall","Winter","Dinner","Dairy-Free","Gluten-Free","Low-Carb","Whole30","Kid Friendly","Pressure Cooker","Slow Cooker"],"notes":"These carnitas pair well with Mexican rice, beans, or as a filling for tacos, quesadillas, and more. Adjust cooking times if altering meat cuts or sizes."} |
| Easy Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic |
This simple and delicious grilled asparagus recipe is flavored wi... |
grilled, vegetarian, spring, quick, BBQ, side dish, healthy, gluten-free, low-carb |
{"title":"Easy Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic","description":"This simple and delicious grilled asparagus recipe is flavored with lemon, garlic, and olive oil. It makes a perfect side dish for any meal and is quick to prepare, taking only 10 minutes to cook. The lemon and garlic add a subtle kick of flavor that complements the naturally sweet asparagus, making it a favorite vegetable for grilling during the spring.","short_description":"Delicious grilled asparagus with lemon and garlic flavor, perfect for any barbecue.","full_ingredient_list":["1 pound of medium-sized asparagus","1 tablespoon olive oil","1 teaspoon coarse salt","1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper","1 medium lemon (zest and juice)","1 clove garlic (minced)"],"components":[{"name":"Grilled Asparagus","ingredients":[{"name":"asparagus","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"choose medium-sized shoots","substitutions":[]},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"coarse salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly cracked black pepper","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"lemon","quantity":"1 medium","preparation_notes":"zest and juice","substitutions":["balsamic vinegar","red wine vinegar"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"1 clove","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Grill","Baking sheet or cutting board"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat your grill to high heat, about 400 degrees Fahrenheit.","tips":"Ensure the grill is fully preheated to get the perfect char."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Wash asparagus well and trim the woody, tough ends by snapping where the stem naturally breaks.","tips":"No knife required!"},{"step_number":3,"description":"Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, and garlic. Roll them around on the baking sheet to ensure they are evenly coated.","tips":"Tossing well helps seasoning stick and promotes even cooking."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Place the seasoned asparagus directly on the grill grates and grill for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the ends start to brown while the shoots remain crisp-tender.","tips":"Rotate often for even grilling."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Remove from the grill and serve the asparagus on a platter. Enjoy warm or chilled with an extra drizzle of fresh lemon juice if desired.","tips":"For extra flavor, add a little more lemon juice before serving."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"8 minutes","total_time":"18 minutes","servings":"4 servings","tags":["grilled","vegetarian","spring","quick","BBQ","side dish","healthy","gluten-free","low-carb"],"notes":"Medium-sized asparagus stalks are ideal for grilling as they are easier to manage and cook evenly without falling through grill grates. Avoid using very thin or thick stalks.","background":"Grilled asparagus is a versatile side dish that is popular in spring when asparagus is in season. The smoky grill flavor enhances its natural sweetness, and the simple seasoning lets it shine.","nutrition":{"calories":"63","protein":"2g","fat":"3g","carbohydrates":"7g","fiber":"3g","sugar":"2g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve alongside any grilled protein such as steak or chicken. Pairs well with mashed potatoes or as part of a Surf and Turf dish.","storage":"Keep leftover grilled asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat by grilling briefly or use a microwave.","dietary_info":["vegetarian","gluten-free","low-carb"],"cooking_tips":["Use medium stalks for balance between tenderness and ease of grilling.","Preheat grill to maintain a high heat and achieve a good char."],"variations":["Wrap asparagus in bacon before grilling for added flavor.","Use balsamic vinegar instead of lemon for a different acidity."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Asparagus is the star of this dish; its sweet and savory notes are enhanced by grilling, producing a delicious smoky profile.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":4,"savory":5,"sour":3,"bitter":2,"umami":6},"geographic_region":"Global","seasonality":"Spring","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":6,"recommended_pairings":["Grilled steak","Roasted chicken"]} |
| Classic Guacamole Dip |
This guacamole recipe is simple yet bursting with fresh flavors, ... |
Appetizers, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Whole30, Kid-Friendly |
{"title":"Classic Guacamole Dip","description":"This guacamole recipe is simple yet bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for serving with homemade corn chips.","full_ingredient_list":["3 ripe avocados","3 garlic cloves, minced","\u00bd teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper","\u00bd jalape\u00f1o pepper, seeded, finely chopped","\u00bc cup finely minced red onion","\u00bd cup chopped fresh cilantro","2 tablespoons fresh lime juice","\u00bd teaspoon kosher salt"],"components":[{"name":"Guacamole Base","ingredients":[{"name":"ripe avocados","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"halved and pitted","substitutions":["frozen avocado"]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"red onion","quantity":"\u00bc cup","preparation_notes":"finely minced","substitutions":["shallots"]},{"name":"freshly cracked black pepper","quantity":"\u00bd teaspoon","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":["white pepper"]},{"name":"jalape\u00f1o pepper","quantity":"\u00bd","preparation_notes":"seeded, finely chopped","substitutions":["serrano pepper"]},{"name":"chopped fresh cilantro","quantity":"\u00bd cup","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":["parsley"]},{"name":"fresh lime juice","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"from 1 lime","substitutions":["bottled lime juice"]},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"\u00bd teaspoon","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":["sea salt"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["medium bowl","fork"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place the avocados in a medium bowl.","tips":"For a creamier texture, use a fork."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Smash the avocados to your preference using a fork or molcajete.","tips":"A molcajete can provide an authentic texture."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Stir in garlic, black pepper, jalape\u00f1o, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt until mixed well.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning as needed."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Serve immediately with tortilla chips or refrigerate for later use.","tips":"To prevent browning, cover tightly with plastic wrap touching the surface of the guacamole."}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"0 minutes","total_time":"15 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["Appetizers","Dairy-Free","Gluten-Free","Low-Carb","Vegan","Vegetarian","Whole30","Kid-Friendly"],"notes":"The guacamole can be doubled or tripled for larger groups. To keep it green, store with lime wedges on top or cover with plastic wrap pressed against the surface."} |
| Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce |
A herb-filled chimichurri sauce perfectly complements a classic g... |
Dairy-Free, Gluten Free, Low-Carb, 30 Minutes |
{"title":"Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce","description":"A herb-filled chimichurri sauce perfectly complements a classic grilled flank steak, perfect for a summer meal.","full_ingredient_list":["2 pounds skirt or flat iron steak, room temperature","1 teaspoon kosher salt","\u00bc teaspoon freshly ground black pepper","1 \u00bc cup Chimichurri Sauce"],"components":[{"name":"Steak","ingredients":[{"name":"skirt or flat iron steak","quantity":"2 pounds","preparation_notes":"room temperature","substitutions":[]},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Grill","Sharp knife","Grilling tongs","Instant-read thermometer"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat the grill on high.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pat the steak dry with paper towels.","tips":"Ensures better searing."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Season the steak all over with salt and pepper.","tips":"Be thorough for even flavor."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Place the steak on the grill and cook without moving it, until slightly charred, 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the steaks over and continue to cook 3 to 5 minutes for medium-rare, 5 to 7 minutes for medium, or 8 to 10 minutes for medium-well.","tips":"Use a thermometer to check for doneness: 135\u00b0F for medium-rare, 140\u00b0F for medium, 150\u00b0F for medium-well."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Transfer the steaks to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil and let rest 5 minutes.","tips":"Resting allows juices to redistribute."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Slice against the grain.","tips":"Ensure tenderness of the steak slices."}]}],"prep_time":"10 min","cook_time":"12 min","total_time":"22 min plus resting time","servings":"6","tags":["Dairy-Free","Gluten Free","Low-Carb","30 Minutes"],"notes":"Remove the meat from the refrigerator 1 hour before grilling to bring it to room temperature."} |
