Showing posts with label Asian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Asian. Show all posts

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Sesame-Glazed Beef and Veggie Bowl

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb. beef steak
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup sugar snap peas
  • 1/4 cup reduced-sodium tamari sauce
  • 1 tbsp.  sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tsp. tapioca flour
  • 1/4 cup chopped scallions
  • 1 tbsp. sesame seeds
Makes 4 Servings

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. 
  2. Pat the beef dry and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Add it to the hot pan and brown it for 3-4 minutes per side. 
  3. Remove the beef and set aside, reserving the grease in the skillet. 
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until translucent. Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until brown. Add the sugar snap peas and cook for 1-2 minutes. 
  5. Meanwhile, in a small mixing bowl whisk together the tamari sauce, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, beef broth, and tapioca flour until dissolved. Add the sauce to the skillet, stirring to coat the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. 
  6. Cut the steak into small pieces, about 1 inch square, and add it back to the pan, simmering for 5-7 minutes, until the beef is cooked to desired doneness. 
  7. Divide vegetables and steak mixture into 4 individual bowls. Garnish with the scallions and sesame seeds and serve. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 10 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. If you are craving takeout, put down the phone and make this dish instead. This is a new take on takeout food, steak and vegetables. This dish is a flavorful take on the traditional Asian takeout. Tamari sauce is similar to soy sauce but it's gluten free and less sodium. The homemade sauce is tasty on the beef and the vegetables as well. If you don't have snow peas or sugar snap peas on hand, substitute bell peppers and the meal will be just as filling and flavorful. 

Monday, September 14, 2020

Soy and Ginger-Marinated Salmon

 Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp. unseasoned rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. packed brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp. grated peeled fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
  • 1 (1 lb.) skinless salmon fillet, cut crosswise into 8 strips
  • 4 cups lightly packed baby arugula
  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh chives
  • 1 tbsp. black sesame seeds
Makes 4 Servings (1 cup salad & 2 salmon strips per serving)

  1. To make the marinade, combine the vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic and 1 teaspoon of the sesame oil in a large bowl. Transfer 2 tablespoons of the mixture to a medium bowl and add the salmon, turning to coat; let marinate about 5 minutes. 
  2. Heat the remaining 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon and cook until just opaque in the center, about 2 minutes on each side. 
  3. Add the arugula to the remaining vinegar mixture and toss to coat. Divide the arugula evenly among 4 plates. Top each serving with 2 salmon strips  and sprinkle with 1/2 tablespoon of the chives and 3/4 teaspoon of the sesame seeds. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW in 20 Minutes Cookbook.  Salmon grilled or sauteed is quite delicious when it's done right. The combination of soy, ginger and garlic is quite tasty and will leave you satisfied. You can enjoy this salmon with any leafy green of your choice and the meal will still be delicious. 

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Sticky Sesame Chicken

Ingredients:
For the chicken:
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp. tapioca flour
  • 2 tbsp. sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 4 lime wedges
For the Marinade:
  • 1/4 cup coconut aminos
  • 1 tsp. granular brown sugar substitute
  • 1 tbsp. fresh minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp. freshly minced ginger
  • 2 tsp. sesame oil
  • 3 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
Makes 4 Servings
  1. Pat the chicken dry. Dice into 1/2-inch pieces and season it with salt and pepper to taste. 
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, sugar substitute, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and sat and pepper to taste. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and transfer to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to marinate. 
  3. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large sauté pan.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip away. Reserve the marinade. place the chicken in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. 
  5. Add the tapioca flour to the marinade and whisk to combine. Add the marinade to the pan with the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens. 
  6. Evenly divide among 4 bowls and serve the chicken garnished with sesame seeds, cilantro and lime wedges. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. If you're thinking about ordering takeout, put down the phone and make this dish instead. There is nothing like succulent, juicy chicken cooked with ginger, garlic and lime for a different taste. Coconut aminos is a soy sauce substitute that is made from fermented coconut palm sap so it is soy, wheat and gluten free. You can substitute tamari or soy sauce for the coconut aminos and the dish will still be delicious. You can store this chicken dish in an airtight container for up to 4 days and it will still be good. 
sesame chicken recipe

Thursday, January 23, 2020

Korean-Style Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken Rolls

Ingredients:
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 2 tsp. Chinese-style hot mustard
  • 3/4 cup whole wheat panko bread crumbs
  • 2 tbsp. sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 1 /2 lbs. chicken tenders
  • 1/4 cup sake
  • 3 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tsp. honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp. hot chili oil
  • 8 large green leaf lettuce leaves
Makes 4 Servings (2 rolls per serving)
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 F. Spray large rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray. 
  2. Whisk together egg whites and mustard in a pie plate until frothy. Combine panko, sesame seeds and cilantro on a sheet of wax paper. Dip chicken tenders, one at a time, into egg white mixture; then into panko mixture, pressing to adhere. Place chicken in single layer on baking sheet; lightly spray with nonstick spray. Bake until golden and cooked through, 18-20 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, combine sake, soy sauce, honey, garlic and chili oil in a small bowl. Place lettuce leaves on work surface and top each one with one eighth of chicken. Sprinkle each portion with about 1 tablespoon sauce and roll up lettuce to enclose chicken. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 9 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. Asian takeout is delicious when it's done right. If you love chicken tenders and Asian food, these treats are definitely for you. These chicken tenders are succulent, juicy and flavorful. Baked chicken tenders are better than fried chicken tenders. The sauce is spicy and flavorful and it goes great with these chicken tenders. 

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken

Ingredients:
  • 2 scallions, chopped
  • 3 tbsp. mirin
  • 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp. granular sugar or honey
  • 2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
  • 4 (1/4-lb.) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
Makes 4 Servings (1 chicken thigh per serving)
  1. Combine the scallions, mirin, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of the oil, and the pepper flakes in a zip-close plastic bag; add the chicken. Squeeze out the air and seal the bag; turn to coat the chicken. Refrigerate, turning the bag occasionally, for at lest 2 hours or up to overnight. 
  2. Lift the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade. Heat the remaining 1 teaspoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes on each side. Add the broth; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and the liquid is syrupy, about 10 minutes. Turn the chicken to coat with the liquid. Cut the chicken into slices to serve. 

WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. Sweet and spicy chicken is quite delicious. Marinating the chicken takes a long process but the end result is delicious. The chicken is succulent and juicy. I highly recommend substituting honey in place of the sugar for a sweeter taste and a little lime juice and minced garlic to kick the flavor up a notch. I also highly recommend serving this chicken on a salad made of savoy cabbage, sliced carrots, thinly sliced radishes and a matchstick-cut Gala apple for a very filling dish. 

Monday, May 13, 2019

Scallion-Ginger Meatballs

Ingredients:
  • 1 lb. ground turkey breast
  • 3 tbsp. teriyaki sauce
  • 3 scallions, finely chopped
  • 2 tsp. grated peeled fresh ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp. canola oil
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp. dry sherry or water
  • 1 lb. baby bok choy, quartered lengthwise
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp. water
  • 2 tsp. sesame seeds
Makes 4 Servings (3 meatballs, about 2/3 cup vegetables  and 1 1/2 tablespoons sauce per serving)
  1. Combine the turkey, 2 tablespoons of the teriyaki sauce, the scallions, ginger, and garlic in a large bowl. With damp hands, form the mixture into 12 meatballs.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, partially covered, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 12 minutes. Transfer to a serving bowl; keep warm. 
  3. Add the hoisin sauce, sherry or water and remaining 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce to the skillet; cook, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook, stirring, until slightly thickened, about 1 minute. 
  4. Meanwhile, combine the bok choy, bell pepper, and water in a medium skillet. Cook, covered, until tender, about 5 minutes; drain. 
  5. Add the meatballs and bok choy- mixture to the sauce, turning to coat the meatballs. Cook until heated through, about 1 minute longer. Serve sprinkled with the sesame seeds. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW in 20 Minutes Cookbook. If you're thinking about ordering takeout, PUT DOWN THE PHONE!! This meal is just as tasty and flavorful as what you would order on the phone or at the restaurant. Turkey meatballs are just as delicious as beef meatballs and they are healthier for you when they are done right. These meatballs are delicious with the vegetables with all the Asian flare. If you don't have bok choy on hand, substitute broccoli and the meal will be just as delicious. 

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Summer Rolls with Crab and Mango

Ingredients:
  • 2 1/2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 2 tsp. honey
  • 1 tsp. chili-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
  • 8 (6-inch) round rice paper wrappers
  • 4 large Boston lettuce leaves, each cut lengthwise in half
  • 1 small mango, peeled, pitted, and cut lengthwise into strips
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 2 cups bean sprouts
  • 4 imitation crab sticks (6 oz.), each cut lengthwise in half
  • 16 sprigs fresh cilantro
Makes 4 Servings (2 rolls and 1 1/2 tbsp. sauce per serving)
  1. To make dipping sauce, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, honey, chili paste, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
  2. To assemble rolls, working one at a time, dip rice paper wrappers in a bowl or warm water; let stand jus until soft, about 30 seconds. Place on clean kitchen towel. Place 1 lettuce piece in center of each wrapper. Top lettuce with one eighth of mango, bell pepper, and bean sprouts. Top each with a piece of crab stick and 2 cilantro sprigs. Fold in sides and roll up to enclose filling. Press gently to seal. Cut each roll in half on diagonal. Serve with dipping sauce. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. I don't eat Asian food often but when I make it at home, it's actually quite filling and tasty. The combination of crab, mango and vegetables is deliciously filling. Serve these as an appetizer and it will feel like a light lunch. When you handle the rice papers wrappers, always follow the directions. They can get sticky VERY fast and it can be challenging to wrap those around the filling. 

Monday, November 13, 2017

Spicy Chicken-Asparagus Stir-Fry

Ingredients:
  • 3 tsp. canola oil
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1 tbsp. grated, peeled fresh ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 lb. asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch lengths
  • 1 1/2 cups matchstick-cut carrots
  • 1 small red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 small yellow bell peppers, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp. water
  • 3 tbsp. black bean sauce
  • 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 1/2 tsp. hot chili oil
  • 2 tsp. toasted sesame seeds
Makes 4 Servings (1 2/3 cups per serving
  1. Heat wok or large deep skillet over medium-high heat until drop of water sizzles in it. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of canola oil and swirl to coat pan. Sprinkle chicken with salt; add to wok and stir-fry until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons canola oil to wok and swirl to coat pan. Add ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add asparagus, carrots, bell peppers, and water; cook, covered, until vegetables are crisp-tender, 4-5 minutes.
  3. Return chicken to wok along with black bean sauce, soy sauce, and chili oil. Stir-fry until chicken is heated through, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
WW POINTS VALUE: 3 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook.  If you're ever craving Asian takeout food, leave the phone alone and cook this dish instead. It's flavorful, colorful and good for you with all the protein and vegetables in it. If you don't have a wok on hand, use your grill instead. You can grill the chicken and vegetables and dish will taste just as good as takeout. If you want to make you dish more filling and Asian authentic, serve a half cup of cooked brown rice per serving and it will increase the Smart Points value by 3.



Friday, October 13, 2017

Mango-Berry Salad with Ginger Glaze

Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup apricot preserves
  • 1 tsp. ground ginger
  • 3 cups diced ripe mango
  • 2 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
Makes 6 Servings (1 cup per serving)
  1. Stir together water, preserves, and ginger in a small saucepan, mashing large pieces of apricot with fork; bring to boil. Boil, stirring occasionally, until mixture is syrupy, about 6 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat and let cool to room temperature.
  2. Combine mango and blueberries in serving bowl; drizzle with apricot glaze and toss until coated evenly. Add raspberries and gently toss to combine.
WW POINTS VALUE: 2 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook. Who says a fruits salad has to be boring? This fruit salad is kicked up a notch with the ginger and my homemade apricot preserves and it is delicious. You can enjoy this Asian fusion salad for breakfast, as a light lunch or for dessert. You can use any kind of berry in this dessert and the salad will be delicious. I highly recommend using sugar free preserves in this recipe so you won't get a sugar high and the only sugar in this salad are the natural sugars from the fruit.

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Vietnamese Chicken Curry

Ingredients:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp. curry powder
  • 1 tbsp. canola oil
  • 1 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp. garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp. ginger, chopped
  • 1 tbsp. lemon grass or lemon verbena leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp. chile flakes or sambal oelek chile paste
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced
  • 1 (16 oz.) can low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched
  • 1 cup light coconut milk
  • lime juice to taste
  • 1 tbsp. cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
Makes 4 Servings
  1. Cut chicken into 2-inch pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and curry powder.
  2. Heat a large Dutch oven or deep sauté pan over medium heat. Add oil and chicken. Cook until chicken is slightly browned on all sides but still raw. Remove chicken  from pan and reserve on a plate.
  3. Add onion to the sauté pan and cook until just soft (deglaze with water if necessary). Add garlic, ginger, lemon grass, and chile flakes; cook until aromatic.
  4. Add carrots and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Season with lime juice; stir in cilantro.
  5. Serve with brown rice.
WW POINTS VALUE: 11 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. I have come to really enjoy South East Asian cuisine. My dining companion does not like Asian cuisine but I do. I have never been to Vietnam or know much about Vietnamese cuisine but from what I have tried and cooked, it is delicious. Curry dishes are popular in Vietnamese cuisine. This dish is another ethnic comfort food to try and I think you will enjoy it. It's got protein and vegetables and the coconut milk makes this dish thick and enhances the flavor.  

Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Vegetable Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:
  • 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded green cabbage or coleslaw mix
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • 2 scallions, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 24 wonton wrappers
  • 1 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
Makes 6 Servings (4 dumplings & 1 tablespoon sauce per serving)
  1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray large baking sheet with nonstick spray.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cabbage, carrot, half of scallions, and the garlic; cook, stirring, until cabbage is wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of soy sauce.
  3. Lay wonton wrappers on work surface. Place 1 teaspoon cabbage mixture in center of each wrapper. With wet finger, moisten edges of wrappers, one at a time. Fold one corner over to meet opposite corner forming triangle; firmly press edges together to make tight seal. Repeat, transferring dumplings to prepared baking sheet; spray with nonstick spray.
  4. Bake until dumplings are golden brown, about 15 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, stir together remaining  1/4 cup soy sauce, remaining scallions and the sesame oil in serving bowl. Serve with dumplings.
WW POINTS VALUE: 3 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook.  This was a different take on typical Asian snacks. These wonton treats are baked not fried and they are not actually bad. They are very filling and will quickly fill you up. I highly recommend putting parchment paper on the baking sheet so the wontons don't stick to the baking sheet.


Monday, January 2, 2017

Simmered Chicken with Soy-Ginger Sauce

Ingredients:
  • 3 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
  • 2 (3/4-lb.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 5 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp. + 2 tsp. grated & peeled fresh ginger
  • 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp. rice vinegar
  • 5 tsp. honey
Makes 4 Servings ( 1 breast with 1 1 /2 tablespoons sauce per serving)
  1. Heat 2 teaspoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, 3-4 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  2. Add 4 of the scallions and the 1 tablespoon ginger to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the broth and 2 tablespoons of the soy sauce; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, about 4 minutes. Add the chicken and return to a gentle simmer; cook, covered, about 12 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the chicken sit in the liquid about 10 minutes longer. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken from the liquid to a serving plate. Discard the liquid.
  3. Combine the remaining 1 teaspoon oil, 1 scallion, 2 teaspoons ginger, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, the vinegar, and honey in a small bowl; mix well. Serve with the chicken.
 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. This is what I call tastier than takeout. It's better for you and it's more flavorful. You can really taste the ginger in this dish. Simmering the chicken in the pan allows the chicken to be infused with the flavors. I highly recommend adding a touch of minced garlic to this dish for a more authentic Chinese flare and also garlic makes everything taste better. I highly recommend adding vegetables to this dish such as broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, onions, etc. for a more filling meal.

Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Coconut Shrimp Curry

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup quick-cooking barley or brown rice
  • 1 (14 oz.) can unsweetened lite coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp. Thai red curry paste
  • 1 large red bell pepper, slivered
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 1 /4 lbs. peeled & deveined large shrimp
  • 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp. slivered fresh basil
  • lime wedges for serving
Makes 4 Servings
  1. In a medium saucepan, cook the barley or rice according to package directions. Drain away liquid left in the pan. Cover and keep warm.
  2. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of the coconut milk and the curry paste. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the bell peppers and onion and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes to soften the vegetables.
  3. Stir in the soy sauce and remaining coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute to blend flavors.
  4. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring often, until the shrimp turn pink and are just opaque in the center, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the lime juice.
  5. Divide the barley or rice among 4 plates, top with the curry, and sprinkle with the basil. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
WW POINTS VALUE: 10 pts. with barley, 9 pts. without barley
 
Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Super Quick Cookbook. This quick and easy Asian dish is tastier than takeout and both cheaper and better for you. This dish has a unique flavor to it with the coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce and lime juice. Don't worry if the dish looks like a hot mess but it's flavorful, spicy and delicious. Don't forget to use unsweetened lite coconut milk because the thick sweetened coconut milk is used to make pina coladas. If you're on Phase 1, serve the cooked shrimp over sautéed zucchini, bok choy or spinach.

Friday, July 15, 2016

Korean-Style Pork Tenderloin with Asian Cabbage Slaw

Ingredients:
  • 2 tbsp. reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. agave syrup
  • 1 tsp. sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp. garlic, chopped
  • 1 tsp. ginger chopped
  • 1 tsp. orange zest
  • 1 scallion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Asian pear or green apple, peeled & cored
  • 1 tsp. chile paste, sambal oelek, or Korean chile paste
  • 1 lb. pork tenderloin, fat removed
  • 6 cups Asian Cabbage Slaw
Makes 4 Servings
  1. Combine all ingredients except pork tenderloin and cabbage slaw in blender. Blend until smooth. Place pork in marinade and let sit overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Grill pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F. Allow meat to rest for 10 minutes. Slice pork tenderloin thin across the grain. Serve with Asian Cabbage Slaw or wrapped in lettuce leaves or butter leaf lettuce.
WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. This dish puts a new spicy twist on the typical BBQ pork and slaw. Who knew Korean barbecue could taste so good? Korean BBQ is known for its salty and spicy flavors. The salty and spicy flavors mixed with the crispy textures of the slaw and the succulent juicy pork is absolutely delicious. You can use pork, chicken, steak, even salmon in this recipe and your meal will be delicious. There is nothing like grilled pork in warm weather. Grilled pork always test the best. If you're lucky enough to live in warm weather years round, just grill your proteins and vegetables and they will always taste delicious. 

Asian Cabbage Slaw

Ingredients:
  • 6 cups Napa cabbage, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1 cup red bell peppers, julienned
  • 2 tbsp. cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp. ginger, chopped
  • 1/4 cup scallion, chopped
  • 1 cup Asian pear or green apple, peeled, cored & julienned
  • 1 tsp chile paste, sambal oelek, or Korean chile paste
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sesame Vinaigrette
  • 1 tbsp. sesame seeds, toasted
  • 1/4 cup almonds, toasted & slivered
  • salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
Makes 6 cups, serves 12
  1. Combine all ingredients except almonds in a large bowl.
  2. Garnish with toasted, slivered almonds.
 
WW POINTS VALUE: 1 pt.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. This vegetarian side dish puts a new spin on the typical slaw. Thus cabbage slaw has a lot of bright colors and has a nice, crunchy texture to it. You can use green cabbage or Napa Cabbage in this recipe. There's a lot of crunch and flavor in this dish and it goes perfect with any Asian protein to make your meal filling and satisfying. PLus, you won't find this side dish on any Asian takeout menu. 





Soy Sesame Vinaigrette

Ingredients:
  • 4 tbsp. reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. granular sugar substitute
  • 1 tbsp. rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp. ginger, minced or grated
  • 1/2 tsp. chopped garlic
  • 2 tsp. sesame oil
  • salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
Makes 1/2 cup (1 tablespoon per serving)
 
Combine all ingredients. Whisk well.
 
WW POINTS VALUE: 2 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. This is a nice vinaigrette that goes great on salads, chicken, pork, beef, salmon, tuna, swordfish, and even lamb. If you want to make this vinaigrette spicier, add a touch of chile sauce and it will really wake up your taste buds. It also makes a nice dipping sauce too.

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Thai Chicken Legs

Ingredients:
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp. grated peeled fresh ginger
  • 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. Asian fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp. granular sugar
  • 1 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tbsp. chopped fresh mint
  • 2 tsp. grated lime zest
  • 1 tsp. Thai red curry paste
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 4 (1/2-lb.) whole chicken legs, skinned
Makes 4 Servings (1 chicken leg per serving)
  1. Combine the garlic, ginger, vinegar, fish sauce, sugar, cilantro,yo mint, lime zest, chili paste, and salt in a zip-close plastic bag; add the chicken. Squeeze out the air and seal the bag; turn to coat the chicken. Refrigerate, turning the bag occasionally, for at least 4 hours or up to overnight.
  2. Spray the grill rack with nonstick spray; prepare the grill for a medium-hot fire.
  3. Lift the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill rack. Discard the marinade. Grill the chicken until well marked and an instant-read thermometer inserted in a thigh registers 165 F, 8-10 minutes on each side.sian dis
WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. If you're craving takeout food, PUT DOWN THE PHONE!! You can make this dish in 30 minutes or less and you'll be just as happy and satisfied. If you love Chinese takeout, you'll love this dish. Thai food has all the flavors you crave: spicy, sweet, sour, bitter, hot and aromatic. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts in place of the legs and your meal will taste just as delicious. Thai roasted chili paste is a condiment that is made from crushed roasted red Thai chiles, granulated sugar, tamarind, dried shrimp and other spices. It has a smoky and spicy flavor to many Asian dishes.  Grilled Thai chicken is absolutely delicious you'll have it again.

Thai Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients:
  • 1 (14 oz.) can light coconut milk
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp. grated lime zest
  • 2 cups sliced asparagus tips
  • 1 cup halved mushrooms
  • 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small head bok choy, stems sliced and leaves left whole
  • 1/4 cup unsalted peanuts
  • 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small bunch fresh basil, slivered
Makes 4 Servings
 
In food processor, combine the coconut milk, garlic, lemon and lime zest. Pulse to process into a paste. Remove to a large skillet. Place over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the asparagus, mushrooms, bell pepper, bok choy, peanuts and red pepper flakes and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce, lime juice, lemon juice, and basil and simmer, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes.
 
WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Cookbook. You can make this vegetarian dish in about 30 minutes or less and it will be delicious. You can serve this dish as a side dish or as a vegetarian entrée and it will be deliciously satisfying. Don't be intimidated by Thai food. Thai food has all the flavors you love: hot, spicy, sweet, sour, bitter and aromatic. If you don't have bok choy on hand, spinach will work just as well. The great thing about this dish is that it has 4 different kinds of vegetables in it so you could get your daily servings of vegetables in this dish.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Sesame-Crusted Tuna Steaks

Ingredients:
  • 3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp. honey
  • 1 tbsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp. chopped red bell pepper
  • 1 tbsp. freshly chopped chives
  • 3/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 (6 oz.) tuna steaks, 1/2-inch thick
  • 2 tbsp. sesame seeds
Makes 4 Servings (1 tuna steak & about 2 tbsp. topping)
  1. To prepare the topping, combine the vinegar, honey, sesame oil, bell pepper, chives, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of the pepper in a serving dish; set aside.
  2. Sprinkle the tuna steaks with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Spread the sesame seeds on a plate; coat the tuna with the seeds, pressing lightly so the adhere.
  3. Spray a large skillet with nonstick spray and set over medium-high heat. Add the tuna and cook 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare or until desired doneness. Serve with the bell pepper topping.
WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the WW in 20 Minutes Cookbook. Who says you can't have an elegant meal in 30 minutes or less? This meal is quick, easy and delicious and can be enjoyed any day of the week. This meal is tastier than takeout and it tastes just as good as what you would get at a restaurant. This meal is bursting with flavor and will quickly fill you up.

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Citrus Ginger Flank Steaks

Ingredients:
  • 1 lb. flank steak, fat removed
  • 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 tbsp. pomegranate molasses or agave syrup
  • 1 tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp. dark sesame oil
  • 2 tsp. freshly chopped ginger
  • freshly ground black pepper
Makes 4 Servings
  1. Season meat with pepper.
  2. Combine remaining ingredients in a Ziploc bag and add flank steak. Place in the refrigerator for 1-24 hours.
  3. For a charcoal grill, place meat on the rack of an uncovered grill directly over medium coals. Grill for 15-20 minutes or until medium doneness (160 F), turning once halfway through grilling. For a gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce heat to medium. Place meat on grill rack over heat. Cover and grill as above.
  4. Transfer grilled meat to a cutting board. Cover and let stand for 10 minutes. To serve, slice very thinly across the grain.
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.
 
Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. Don't be intimidated by this dish. It's a very easy dish to make and it tastes delicious. The agave nectar or pomegranate molasses caramelize when cooked, so be careful not to let the steak get too dark and bitter. Medium heat is best to cook sweet marinades. This steak is deliciously juicy after it's cooked and perfect any day or night of the week.