Tempeh....what a great idea for making vegetable proteins more digestible...Tempeh is made by a natural culturing and controlled fermentation process that binds soybeans into a cake form. It is especially popular on the island of Java, where it is a staple source of protein. Like tofu, tempeh is made from soybeans, but tempeh is a whole soybean product with different nutritional characteristics and textural qualities. Tempeh's fermentation process and its retention of the whole bean give it a higher content of protein, dietary fiber and vitamins compared to tofu, as well as firmer texture and stronger flavor. Long before people found and realized its rich nutritional value, tempeh was referred to as “Javanese meat.” (taken from wikipedia)...
I like Tempeh more than Tofu....but most people tend to favor Tofu......
2 ways I like to make my Tempeh:
BBQ Tempeh:
Cut Tempeh into patties, usually about 4 inches by 4 inches (an approximate). Boil the Tempeh for 10-15 minutes. Remove from water and drain. Marinate it in a light coating of BBQ Sauce and let sit for 1 hour (or less). Bake the Tempeh patties for 20-30 minutes at 375. Server on a bun or with mashed potatoes and corn.
Tempeh Parmesan:
Follow same instructions for boiling the Tempeh. Marinate the patties in pasta sauce for 1 hour. Bake the patties at 375 for 10 minutes. Turn the patties and top with Soy Cheese. Bake again until the cheese melts and browns. Server hot with pasta and sauce (see my Post on Pasta Sauce)
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Monday, September 1, 2008
Restaurants- Central Virginia
I have to give a shout out to my alma mater James Madison University. Also, a big shout goes out to U.V.A. and William and Mary (Kelly's Alma maters)(plural). If you ever fine yourself driving on I-81, I-66, I-64, I-95, and assorted highways from NOVA down to Staunton and east to the Beach, then I can recommend some great eateries therein.
Harrisonburg (Hometown of JMU): I graduated in 1999, so some of these may or may not still be there. However, it was one of the more vegetarian freindly towns in all of Virginia.
The Little Grill Collective is a stand out place that does not look like much. Located at 621 N Main St, The Little Grill is a worker owned restaurant and does quite a bit of local charity work, including a soup kitchen. Every Tuesday is All-You-Can-Eat Mexican food and I highly recommend going for this. If you say you're vegan, they'll make everything without dairy for you. The BBQ Tempeh sandwich is amazing as is the "Go Ask Alyce" sandwich (falafel and veggies). Wednesdays used to be Indian Night, but it appears that they have made Wednesday their "Special" night and the type of food changes per week. Other assorted falafel dishes abound as well as burritos and vegetarian chili. This place is a must if travelling to and/or from Harrisonburg. http://www.littlegrillcollective.com/
Taste of Thai is a nice Thai place located at 917 S High St. They have a Fried Tofu appetizer that is really good. They also have a nice section of their menu labeled as "Vegetarian". If you are vegan, you can ask tell them that and they'll know not to add Fish Sauce. The Sweet and Sour Tofu and the Spicy Tofu are both excellent choices. Their Curries are also very well done and fresh. One another note is that they tend to cook their veggies well and not overcooked. You could also try their Pad Thai (without egg, of course). A little away from the main areas of H'Burg, this place is worth the trip. http://www.taste-of-thai.com/
Charottesville (Home of UVA and Thomas Jefferson): I spent almost every weekend in Charlottesville because Kelly went to UnderGrad there. Home to a plethora of veggie friendly restaurants, it is home to our favorite Chinese place in the country.
Ming Dynasty is located at 1417 Emmet St North just north of the college. It is run by a Buddhist woman and her family. It is not 100% vegan, but will make ANY item on their menu vegan, using faux meats. I really enjoyed their Sweet and Sour Vegetarian Chicken, and Kelly's staple was Vegetarian Pepper Steak. The Buffet for Lunch is good, never made it for a Dinner buffet. Their Orange Vegetarian Beef might be the top entree as the sauce is unmatched so far in my experience. Plenty of good veggie options and a wonderfully friendly staff makes Ming Dynasty the best Chinese place in Virginia, maybe even the country.
Baja Bean Co. is a great Mexican outing. Located on the "Corner" right off Campus, 1327 Main St. Although there is nothing truly amazing with their vegetarian options, their veggie burritos, quesadillas, and tacos are fresh and good. Also, their "fishbowl" margaraita is a classic.
Harrisonburg (Hometown of JMU): I graduated in 1999, so some of these may or may not still be there. However, it was one of the more vegetarian freindly towns in all of Virginia.
The Little Grill Collective is a stand out place that does not look like much. Located at 621 N Main St, The Little Grill is a worker owned restaurant and does quite a bit of local charity work, including a soup kitchen. Every Tuesday is All-You-Can-Eat Mexican food and I highly recommend going for this. If you say you're vegan, they'll make everything without dairy for you. The BBQ Tempeh sandwich is amazing as is the "Go Ask Alyce" sandwich (falafel and veggies). Wednesdays used to be Indian Night, but it appears that they have made Wednesday their "Special" night and the type of food changes per week. Other assorted falafel dishes abound as well as burritos and vegetarian chili. This place is a must if travelling to and/or from Harrisonburg. http://www.littlegrillcollective.com/
Taste of Thai is a nice Thai place located at 917 S High St. They have a Fried Tofu appetizer that is really good. They also have a nice section of their menu labeled as "Vegetarian". If you are vegan, you can ask tell them that and they'll know not to add Fish Sauce. The Sweet and Sour Tofu and the Spicy Tofu are both excellent choices. Their Curries are also very well done and fresh. One another note is that they tend to cook their veggies well and not overcooked. You could also try their Pad Thai (without egg, of course). A little away from the main areas of H'Burg, this place is worth the trip. http://www.taste-of-thai.com/
Charottesville (Home of UVA and Thomas Jefferson): I spent almost every weekend in Charlottesville because Kelly went to UnderGrad there. Home to a plethora of veggie friendly restaurants, it is home to our favorite Chinese place in the country.
Ming Dynasty is located at 1417 Emmet St North just north of the college. It is run by a Buddhist woman and her family. It is not 100% vegan, but will make ANY item on their menu vegan, using faux meats. I really enjoyed their Sweet and Sour Vegetarian Chicken, and Kelly's staple was Vegetarian Pepper Steak. The Buffet for Lunch is good, never made it for a Dinner buffet. Their Orange Vegetarian Beef might be the top entree as the sauce is unmatched so far in my experience. Plenty of good veggie options and a wonderfully friendly staff makes Ming Dynasty the best Chinese place in Virginia, maybe even the country.
Baja Bean Co. is a great Mexican outing. Located on the "Corner" right off Campus, 1327 Main St. Although there is nothing truly amazing with their vegetarian options, their veggie burritos, quesadillas, and tacos are fresh and good. Also, their "fishbowl" margaraita is a classic.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Restaurants -Leadville, CO
We hiked up to the Hagerman Tunnel in Leadville, just west of town above Turqoise Lake Recreation Area. The Hagerman Tunnel was the highest railroad line when it was built in 1887; however it never made any money and fell into disrepair. We hiked up to the tunnel and it was a great hike, about 6.5 miles round trip and 2,000 foot elevation gain. Our dogs were able to swim in two different lakes up near tree line. Once done, we were incredibly hungry and took our chances that there would be SOMETHING to eat in the town of Leadville. We walked around for awhile and found a couple possbilities, but settled on Doc Holliday's Bar & Grill.
Doc Holliday's Bar and Grill is located on the southern end of the main town. It is in an historic building and is the fabled last place Doc Holliday shot someone. The main foods here are steaks and burgers, but they also have a few veggie options. They have a couple of ways of doing the veggie burger: a black bean or a garden burger. I got the Royal, which had 2 patties, tomatoes, onions, and peppers stir-fried on top. All the sandwiches came with hash browns, which were very good. The burgers were good, the beer was good, but the service was really slow. However, maybe that is how it is done at 10,200 feet. http://www.dochollidays.com/
Doc Holliday's Bar and Grill is located on the southern end of the main town. It is in an historic building and is the fabled last place Doc Holliday shot someone. The main foods here are steaks and burgers, but they also have a few veggie options. They have a couple of ways of doing the veggie burger: a black bean or a garden burger. I got the Royal, which had 2 patties, tomatoes, onions, and peppers stir-fried on top. All the sandwiches came with hash browns, which were very good. The burgers were good, the beer was good, but the service was really slow. However, maybe that is how it is done at 10,200 feet. http://www.dochollidays.com/
Friday, August 29, 2008
Robin Robertson
Robin Robertson is possibly the greatest vegan cookbook author out there. I highly recommend ANY of her books. In particular, "Vegan Planet" and "The Vegetarian Meat and Potatoes" books are fantastic. I will be posting some of my favorite recipes from those books in future postings.
Also, Kelly and I had the pleasure of having Robin cater our wedding reception. We got married in Boulder, but had our reception in Virginia Beach. Robin and her crew came out and did a wonderful job catering for us. We also had a vegan wedding cake from another place in Virginia Beach.
Also, Kelly and I had the pleasure of having Robin cater our wedding reception. We got married in Boulder, but had our reception in Virginia Beach. Robin and her crew came out and did a wonderful job catering for us. We also had a vegan wedding cake from another place in Virginia Beach.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Recipes- Basic Stir Fry
Stir-fried veggies over rice is a staple amongst vegans and vegetarians. Usually we use store-bought sauce because I have yet to master a truly great sauce from scratch. I have tried a few times and found that I can make them well, but not as good as some of the sauces at the store.
Stir Fry:
1 large onion (diced)
1 large carrot (diced)
2-3 cloves of garlic (minced)
1 Bell Pepper (diced)
A Protein Source; like Seitan, Tofu, or TVP (cut into small cubes; or large if you are so inclined)
1 cup Broccoli florets
Alternate veggies: Zucchini, Squash, Tomato, Green Beans, or your favorite veggie
1-2 cups of rice
4-8 oz of your favorite sauce
Cook rice according to directions. Usually 1 cup of rice gets 1.5 cups of water. In a wok or pan, stir fry onion, garlic, and carrot in olive oil for 4-5 minutes until all are soft. Add the Seitan (or your favorite Protein source) and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add all other veggies except broccoli. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes. Add the sauce and cook for 5-8 minutes. Add the broccoli when there are 2-3 minutes left; simply add the broccoli, turn down the heat to medium-low and cover to steam the florets. Serve hot over the rice.
Stir Fry:
1 large onion (diced)
1 large carrot (diced)
2-3 cloves of garlic (minced)
1 Bell Pepper (diced)
A Protein Source; like Seitan, Tofu, or TVP (cut into small cubes; or large if you are so inclined)
1 cup Broccoli florets
Alternate veggies: Zucchini, Squash, Tomato, Green Beans, or your favorite veggie
1-2 cups of rice
4-8 oz of your favorite sauce
Cook rice according to directions. Usually 1 cup of rice gets 1.5 cups of water. In a wok or pan, stir fry onion, garlic, and carrot in olive oil for 4-5 minutes until all are soft. Add the Seitan (or your favorite Protein source) and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add all other veggies except broccoli. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes. Add the sauce and cook for 5-8 minutes. Add the broccoli when there are 2-3 minutes left; simply add the broccoli, turn down the heat to medium-low and cover to steam the florets. Serve hot over the rice.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Restaurants- More Southern California
Whilst in Costa Mesa I traveled up to Redondo Beach, where our good friends Nathan and Randy live. It is a great town on the beach and I had a great time with them. There are plenty of Thai places around which offer various vegan options. Also, Mexican and Chinese places abound. There is a little gem of a place in Redondo Beach called Happy Veggie.
Happy Veggie is located on the PCH at 709 N. Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach. It is in a small strip mall and you could miss it if you are not looking. It is a small place, but the people who run it are very friendly and knowledgeable about vegan fare. I had a vegan Thai Iced Tea which was SOOO good. They had some excellent appetizers, which included Soy Chicken Dumplings, Spring Rolls, and Golden Tofu to name a few good ones. They had vegan Pho which I did not try, but am told it is very tasty. As for entrees, I do not know where to begin. I had the Szechuan Chicken Strips which came with onion, brocolli, and a fantastic Szechuan sauce. The Curry Chicken was also amazingly tasty. In a previous visit I had the Green Beans and Chicken which had a nice, light vegan brown sauce. Other staples are their Pad Thai, House Special Chicken, Grilled 'Fish' Dinner, and Kung Pao Chicken. They had an incredible array of desserts which includes a vegan Flan. Yep, a vegan Flan. They were out of it while I was there, but the idea is great. They have a few other cakes, I had the Almond Mocha Whipped Cake and it was superb! This place is a definite for any vegetarian anywhere near Redondo Beach. Go there now! http://www.happyveggie.com/
We drove up on Mulholland Drive, and descended back into Hollywood for lunch the next day. There is a great vegan Thai restaurant on Melrose.
Bulan Thai Vegetarian Kitchen is located at 7168 Melrose Ave in Hollywood, but has a second location in Santa Monica as well. This place was incredible. The selections were diverse and they were very friendly and accomodating. I started again with a vegan Thai Iced Tea, which was very good. It is essentially a typical Thai place, but everything is vegan; so if you have a favorite Thai dish, they have it. We had their Hot Wings appetizer, which was awesome. (It came with vegan ranch, but once again I tried it and did not like it, but that's just me) They have Dumplings, Fritters, Spring Rolls, Fried Tofu, and many other appetizers. I had their Dried Chilis with Cashew entree with veggie chicken and beef. It was amazing and tasted very fresh and authentic. We also tried the Orange Chicken, which was great if you like deep fried things. (which i definitely do) Some of their specials sound really good. Crisp Fish with Green Apple (crisp veggie-fish with apple, cashew, onion, chili, and house special dressing), Busaba Pumpkin (pumpkin sauteed with tofu, garlic, chili, basil, and house special sauce), and several version of Fried Rice top the listings for innovative Thai vegetarian cuisine. If you are ever in Hollywood, take a journey over to Melrose; do a little shopping and stop in to this place for an amazing lunch or dinner. www.bulanthai.com
Happy Veggie is located on the PCH at 709 N. Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach. It is in a small strip mall and you could miss it if you are not looking. It is a small place, but the people who run it are very friendly and knowledgeable about vegan fare. I had a vegan Thai Iced Tea which was SOOO good. They had some excellent appetizers, which included Soy Chicken Dumplings, Spring Rolls, and Golden Tofu to name a few good ones. They had vegan Pho which I did not try, but am told it is very tasty. As for entrees, I do not know where to begin. I had the Szechuan Chicken Strips which came with onion, brocolli, and a fantastic Szechuan sauce. The Curry Chicken was also amazingly tasty. In a previous visit I had the Green Beans and Chicken which had a nice, light vegan brown sauce. Other staples are their Pad Thai, House Special Chicken, Grilled 'Fish' Dinner, and Kung Pao Chicken. They had an incredible array of desserts which includes a vegan Flan. Yep, a vegan Flan. They were out of it while I was there, but the idea is great. They have a few other cakes, I had the Almond Mocha Whipped Cake and it was superb! This place is a definite for any vegetarian anywhere near Redondo Beach. Go there now! http://www.happyveggie.com/
We drove up on Mulholland Drive, and descended back into Hollywood for lunch the next day. There is a great vegan Thai restaurant on Melrose.
Bulan Thai Vegetarian Kitchen is located at 7168 Melrose Ave in Hollywood, but has a second location in Santa Monica as well. This place was incredible. The selections were diverse and they were very friendly and accomodating. I started again with a vegan Thai Iced Tea, which was very good. It is essentially a typical Thai place, but everything is vegan; so if you have a favorite Thai dish, they have it. We had their Hot Wings appetizer, which was awesome. (It came with vegan ranch, but once again I tried it and did not like it, but that's just me) They have Dumplings, Fritters, Spring Rolls, Fried Tofu, and many other appetizers. I had their Dried Chilis with Cashew entree with veggie chicken and beef. It was amazing and tasted very fresh and authentic. We also tried the Orange Chicken, which was great if you like deep fried things. (which i definitely do) Some of their specials sound really good. Crisp Fish with Green Apple (crisp veggie-fish with apple, cashew, onion, chili, and house special dressing), Busaba Pumpkin (pumpkin sauteed with tofu, garlic, chili, basil, and house special sauce), and several version of Fried Rice top the listings for innovative Thai vegetarian cuisine. If you are ever in Hollywood, take a journey over to Melrose; do a little shopping and stop in to this place for an amazing lunch or dinner. www.bulanthai.com
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