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Gluten Free Vegan

Curry Baigan (eggplant) and Aloo (potato).

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I’ve shared countless ways of making this over the years, yet this version is still the classic and most requested by fans of my work. A simple dish, usually served with the easiest and most classic of all the roti’s we make in the Caribbean, Sada Roti.

You’ll Need…

1 1/2 tablespoon veg oil
1/2 medium onion (sliced)
5-7 cloves garlic (smashed)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons curry powder
1 Habanero pepper (green/sliced)
3 medium potatoes (sliced)
2 tablespoon water
2 lbs eggplant (peeled/cubed)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust)
1 teaspoon Anchar masala
1/2 cup water (explained below)
3-5 Wiri Wiri peppers (optional)

Notes! May I recommend that you follow along with the video below as much more about the recipe is discussed there. If you cannot source the Anchar Masala, use ground roasted cumin (geera). Should you want to add a more herbal flavor to the curry, you may add a tablespoon Green Seasoning after cooking the onion/garlic combo. If making this dish gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet your specific gluten free dietary requirements. Especially the curry powder you use as some may contain fillers.

In a wide pan on a medium flame add the veg oil or any oil you prefer using. Follow up with the onion, garlic and black pepper and cook low for 2-3 minutes. In reality you may use as much onion and garlic as you prefer.

Add the curry powder and stir to toast evenly for 3 minutes on the low flame.

Add the sliced Green Habanero pepper (explained in the video) and 2 tablespoon of water, followed by the (peeled, washed and sliced) potatoes. Stir well, then go in with the eggplant pieces (about 1 inch cubes) and mix well.

Top with the Anchar Masala, turn the heat to med/low and cover the pot/pan and allow the steam and heat to do its thing. The eggplant or baigan will release a lot of moisture.

Stir every 4 minutes or so. Remember to add the salt at this point as well. Cook for about 8 minutes. At that point add the 1/2 cup of water to help get the potatoes tender to the point they start falling apart.

After 22-25 minutes of adding the potato to the pot, everything should be fairly cooked. Remove the lid (I had it slightly ajar) adjust the salt to your liking. At this point I added a few Wiri Wiri peppers WHOLE (do not break them) and cover the pot as you turn off the stove.

The residual heat will soften the skin of the Wiri Wiri peppers which will break easily when I enjoy my hot Sada Roti. Do not serve the peppers to your children or anyone who cannot handle the raw heat.

Easy to prepare, simply delicious and just overall comforting for me, as it’s something mom would make for my siblings and I on a Saturday morning.

Gluten Free Meat & Poultry

Salted Pigtail Rice And Peas.

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Arguably the easiest Jamaican Rice and Peas to make is the Slow Cooker version I shared a while back and while that’s one of my go-to recipes, IMHO when you add salted pigtail to the dish it takes on a new level of ‘comfort’. Served with a healthy side of Jamaican Style Steamed Cabbage and even in the middle of a bitter Canadian winter, you’ll be cozy, warm and well fed.

You’ll Need…

1 1/2 cup dried red kidney beans (soaked)
6-8 sprigs thyme
2 scallions (chopped)
4-6 cloves garlic (smashed)
1 medium onion (diced)
1 Scotch Bonnet pepper (see notes below)
8 pimento berries (allspice)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 lbs salted pigtail (pre-cooked)
1/2 cup coconut cream
2 1/2 cups par-boiled brown rice (washed)
water (12-14 cups)

Notes! Soak the washed (dried) red kidney beans in water (covered) so it cooks faster. May I recommend that you follow along with the video below as much more about the recipe is discussed there. Especially how I pre-cooked the salted pigtail pieces. If making this recipe gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements. I suggest you get your butcher to cut the salted pig tail into 1 – 1 1/2 inch pieces for you as they can be tough to cut through.

In a deep pot, put the pre-soaked red beans and any remaining water from soaking them overnight or at least 4 hours. Followed by the thyme, scallions, garlic, onion, pimento berries (allspice), black pepper and the Scotch Bonnet pepper.

With the Scotch Bonnet pepper (a habanero will work also) you have two options. As it cooks you can break it and release the heat or try your best to NOT break it while cooking and remove it near the end.

Turn the stove on high, add about 8 cups of water and the coconut cream.

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 90 minutes or until the beans are tender. Keep in mind that we did pre-cook the salted pigtail (see video). During the cook time you’ll need to add about 4-5 cups of water, keeping in mind that we still need liquid for cooking the rice.

NOTE! if you don’t have coconut cream, you may use 2 cups of coconut milk and leave out 2 cups of the water I mentioned.

Wash the rice with cool water and repeat until the water runs clear. Now into the pot and raise the heat to bring it back to a boil.

Reduce to a rolling boil / simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender. If you use white rice, it will cook quicker and you’ll need less liquid.

No, we didn’t add any salt to the dish as the remaining salt from the salted pigtail should be enough to season the dish. However, taste it at this point and adjust the salt to your liking. This is also when you’d remove the whole Scotch Bonnet pepper if you didn’t want the sort of kick.

Turn off the heat and cover the pot. After 8-10 minutes you can go in with a fork and fluff it if you want. Enjoy!

Personally I thin that this version of rice and peas is better a bit wet or NOT Shelly!

Gluten Free Meat & Poultry

Caribbean Curry Cow Heel (cow foot).

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In some parts of the Caribbean “Chow Heel” is also known as “Cow Foot”, and while those outside our culture may find it a bit offensive to eat such a part of the animal, it’s a comforting, tasty and nutritious dish. It’s deep rooted in our history from slavery to indentureship and beyond.

You’ll Need…

2 1/2 tablespoon Olive oil
1 large onion (diced)
5 cloves garlic (smashed)
1 teaspoon cumin (Geera) seeds
2 tablespoon Caribbean Green Seasoning
1 tablespoon ground Masala
2 1/2 tablespoon Curry powder
2 pimento peppers (seasoning peppers)
1 1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon black pepper
6 pimento berries
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or 1 stick)
1 Star Anise
1/2 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
3 Cardamom pods
2 bay leaves
2 Scotch Bonnet Peppers (see note below)
2 thick slices of ginger
4 1/2 lbs cow heel
3/4 tablespoon salt (adjust)
5-10 cups water
3 tablespoon cilantro (chopped)

Notes! Please get your butcher to cut the cow heel pieces for you with their band saw as your knives won’t be able to. I used 2 hot peppers in the dish as I like curry very spicy, that’s optional or leave the peppers whole as it cooks and fish then out near the end. Be mindful that if you break them, you’ll release the beast. If making this dish gluten free, please go through the list of ingredients to ensure they meet your gluten free dietary requirements. May I suggest that you follow along with the video below as much more about the recipe is discussed there.

I forgot to mention that it’s important that you wash the pieces of cow heel with the juice of a lime or lemon and cool water. Drain after. If you don’t have lemon or lime, use 1 cup white vinegar and water.

Heat the olive oil (use any oil you prefer) on a medium flame in a deep solid pot, followed by the garlic, onion and cumin seeds. Turn the heat down to low, then continue by adding the Caribbean Green seasoning, ground Masala and curry powder. Cook for 4 minutes on low.

Add the pimento peppers (if you can source it), then turn the heat back up to med/high and add the 1 1/2 cups water. Bring to a boil.

Once boiling add the allspice berries, black pepper, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, cardamom, star anise, bay leaves and Scotch bonnet pepper. Turn the heat down so you have a rolling boil.

When the liquid has reduced by about 2/3 or so, add the ginger followed by the cow heel to the pot and give it a good mix.

Add the salt and 6 cups of water. Bring it up to a boil.

Once it comes up to a boil, reduce it to a simmer, lid on slightly ajar and cook for 2 hrs and 50 minutes to 3 hrs and 15 minutes or until it’s tender. You will be required to stir every 20 mins and it will need more water as it reduces.

Remove the hot peppers if you wish, along with the star anise, slices of ginger, bay leaves and if you can get the pimento berries as well. Taste and adjust the salt. If the cow heel is tender and you’re happy with the consistency of the gravy, turn off the stove or add more water and continue cooking.

Mix in the chopped cilantro and get ready to enjoy a delicious curry dish. Yes you can use a pressure cooker and cut the cook time by about 1/2 at least. However from my experience you won’t get the same deep rich flavor as you would with a low and slow braise.

Gluten Free Side Dishes

Incredible Apple Chow.

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Most recently I shared the Lychee Chow recipe, which became an instant hit with fans and those only now stumbling onto my little space on the internet. Like all of the other “Chow” recipes I’ve shared, they all have their own uniqueness based on the main ingredient used. However I came to realize over the years that apple chow is indeed my favourite.

You’ll Need…

2 lemons (juice)
1 lime (juice)
4-6 cloves garlic (crushed)
2-3 Habanero Peppers (sliced thin – adjust)
4 Chadon Beni leaves (sliced thinly)
7-8 small apples (crisp)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 – 3/4 cup water

Notes! Please follow along with the video below as much more is discussed there. Including how many hot peppers to use (and types) and why peeling the apples gives a better result. Should you not be able to source the Chadon Beni (culantro), you may use 2 tablespoons of finely chopped Cilantro (coriander). If making this dish gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure that they meet your specific gluten free dietary requirements.

In a large bowl, squeeze in the lemon and lime, then add the garlic and Scotch Bonnet peppers. Please wear gloves when handling such hot peppers and remember to wash your hands with soap and water immediately after.

I explained in the video that starting this way means that when you add the apple pieces, they will not discolor. Add the chopped Chadon Beni (culantro) at this point as well.

As I add the peeled and chopped apple pieces (be sure to use a variety of apples which are crisp as soft apples will take on a weird texture) I stir to coat with the juices in the bowl.

Once you’re done adding all of the apple pieces, sprinkle on the salt and black pepper.

At this point you’ll pour the water directly over the areas where the salt was added. This will assist in dissolving the salt.

Stir well, then into the fridge to marinate (or soak as we say) for 30 minutes.

It will keep in the fridge for a few days, but rest assured it will be gone before. Save the liquid and add a few more apples if you want. This is one of my fav snacks, especially during the hot days of summer when I have a cool drink in hand sitting out back in the garden. IMPORTANT! This will be very spicy.

Gluten Free Main Dishes

Egg And Aloo (curry egg with potato).

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Did your mom fry the eggs after boiling them and before making the curry? While it seems that’s the traditional way of making this comforting dish, our mom would simply boil the eggs and add them (cut in 1/2) to the curry base. Additionally I don’t recall that she ever added potatoes or aloo to it.

You’ll Need…

3 tablespoon veg oil
7 hard boiled eggs
1 medium onion (diced)
3-4 cloves garlic (smashed)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon ground masala
1 1/2 – 2 tablespoon curry powder
1 3/4 cups water
1 medium tomato (diced)
3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust)
4 medium potatoes (pre-boiled in salted water)
2 tablespoon chopped parsley

Notes. May I recommend following along with the video below as much more about the recipe is discussed there. If making this dish gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet your specific gluten free dietary requirements. You’ll notice that I finished with chopped parsley, traditionally chopped Chadon Beni (culantro) would be used. Alternatively chopped cilantro (coriander) could be used. Should you want to add Caribbean Green Seasoning after adding the onion and garlic, it would make a great addition.

Heat the oil in a wide pan over medium flame and fry the boiled eggs (peeled) until they form a slight crust and take on a golden color. How dark you want it is totally up to you. Remove and set aside.

Reduce the flame to low and add the onion, garlic, black pepper, scotch bonnet pepper (any spicy pepper you like and in the amount you can tolerate), ground masala and cook for 3 minutes (same pot).

Now add the curry powder of your choice and cook for a further 3-4 minutes on low.

Turn the heat up to med/high and add the water, which you’ll bring to a boil. Then add the diced tomato and salt and cook on a rolling boil for 4 minutes (med/low heat).

It’s now time to add the pre-boiled potato (aloo) to the pot.

This will allow the potatoes as well as the eggs to absorb that lovely curry sauce we created. Add the eggs back to the pot now.

Tuck everything under the curry sauce and cook on a simmer for 4-5 minutes.

Now determine if the salt is to your liking and adjust if necessary, then top with the chopped parsley and reduce the sauce or gravy to the consistency you prefer. In my case I shut off the stove after adding the parsley and allowed the pot’s residual heat to thicken things up for me.

Mom would usually serve this with Sada Roti, but I was too lazy to deal with flour, so I heated a buss-up-shut (paratha) roti I had in the freezer.

Should you want to add a teaspoon of ground roasted cumin (geera) the final 3-4 minutes of cooking, it will further enhance this curry dish.

Gluten Free Meat & Poultry

Chadon Beni Honey Lime Roasted Chicken.

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While it’s currently summertime and most of us in northern climates prefer to not have our indoor oven going, as explained in the video below this recipe can also be effectively done on an outdoors grill. If you’re doing this outdoor on the grill you can do so in a baking dish or grill the seasoned chicken directly on the grilling surface (heat source of your choice, however charcoal or wood will give you better results).

You’ll Need…

5 lbs chicken (skin on)
3-4 tablespoon olive oil
zest 1 lime
3 limes (juice)
2-3 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to your liking)
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons finely chopped chives
3 tablespoons finely chopped Chadon Beni
5 cloves garlic (crushed)
1 tablespoon pepper flakes

Notes! May I recommend that you follow along with the video below as much more about the recipe is discussed there. Should you want to add a teaspoon of grated ginger and a tablespoon of light Soy sauce, they will definitely be excellent additions. If making this recipe gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure that they meet your specific gluten free dietary requirements.

I used a variety of cuts of chicken in doing this recipe, without using chicken breast as it will dry-out in the oven. With a combo of wings, drums and legs with the thigh and back attached, you’ll end up having juicy flavorful pieces of chicken. The large drumsticks were cut down the thickest parts for even cooking. And while I removed any fat I could see, I did leave the skin on.

Combine all of the ingredients (except the chicken) in a bowl and give it a whisk. Reserve 1/4 of this marinade, which we’ll treat as a dressing later on.

If you cannot source Chadon Beni (culantro), you may substitute Cilantro (coriander) instead.

Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, mix well to coat and allow it to marinate for no less than 2 hours. * Remember to reserve 1/4 of the marinade for later.

If you wanted to use 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, agave, maple syrup or any sweetener you prefer instead of honey, you may do so.

Preheat your oven to 375 F. Then place the roasting pan with the chicken on the middle rack uncovered.

After 20 minutes, flip the chicken pieces and do so every 20 minutes or so moving forward, until they’re fully cooked.

After an hour and 15 minutes the chicken should be fully cooked and golden! Shut off the oven, drizzle on the reserved marinade and enjoy! Serve with some of that Tomato Rice, Okra Rice or Coconut Rice I shared a while back.

Fluffed rice
Gluten Free Vegetarian

Festive Tomato Rice.

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This is one of my go-to recipes when I’m hosting people, especially around the holiday season (though I did share a Festive Christmas Rice recipe a few years back), thus the name ‘festive tomato rice”. Quick, easy and delicious, there’s absolutely no reason to not make this dish.

You’ll Need…

2-3 large ripe tomatoes
3 tablespoon coconut oil (adjust)
1 1/2 tablespoon salt (divided)
1 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
2 tablespoon tomato concentrate (paste)
1 med onion (diced)
5-7 cloves garlic (crushed)
2 scallions (chopped)
1 stalk celery (chopped)
2 bird’s eye pepper (chopped – optional)
1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin (geera)
3/4 teaspoon smoked Paprika
3 cups Basmati rice (washed)
4 1/2 cups chicken stock * see note below
2 tablespoon parsley

Notes! Use vegetable stock instead of chicken, to make this dish vegan / vegetarian friendly. If making this dish gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet your specific gluten free dietary requirements. May I recommend that you use the video below to follow along as much more about the recipe is discussed there.

As your oven preheats to 425F, remove the stems and core from the tomatoes and cut them into 1/4s. Place them skin side down on a lined baking tray and top with the oil, 1/2 of the black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. These go into the oven on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes uncovered. Once done, remove and allow to cool.

Place a wide pan on the stove on a med/low heat and add the oil from the baking tray we used, followed by the onion, garlic, celery, remaining black pepper and scallion. Lower the heat and add the remaining salt and Bird’s Eye Pepper. Stir!

Add the paprika, cumin, stir and continue cooking on low.

After 3-4 minutes, add the tomato paste and the juices from the roasted tomato (see the video). Stir well to bring out the natural sweetness of the tomato paste.

Remove the skim off the roasted tomato (discard) and give them a rough chop before adding it to the pan.

Raise the heat to medium and cook for 2 minutes, stirring as it cooks so it doesn’t burn due to the natural sugar from the tomato.

Add the washed rice and stir well to coat each grain with that lovely tomato base we created.

In goes the stock (I explain how I determine how much liquid I need in the video below), remember if making this vegan or vegetarian, you will not be using chicken stock as I did. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, lid on and cook until the rice is plump and all of the liquid is gone. TIP! Adding a bay leaf and fresh thyme will add additional flavor.

Thirteen minutes later, shut off the stove. Add the chopped parsley at the top, place the lid back on and let it sit (stove off) on the same burner you used.

Give it about 10 minutes, then use a fork to fluff and mix the rice! Get ready to enjoy it on it’s own or as a side to other dishes on your dinner table.

curry stew chicken done
Gluten Free Meat & Poultry

Curry Stew(ed) Chicken With Potato.

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One of the most comforting meals I always make when I miss ‘home’ (the Caribbean) is Curry Stew Chicken Wings with a simple side of brown rice. Should I have slices of avocado (say zabouca), cucumber and fresh watercress, it’s even more warm and homely. Today we’ll go through the steps of making this dish with chicken legs instead of chicken wings and with the addition of chunky potato pieces to help it stretch for even more people. With this curry stew chicken with potato, I much prefer hot Sada Roti, to rice as my side.

You’ll Need….

3/12 lb chicken (dark meat, skin & fat removed)
3/4 tablespoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium onion (diced)
1 medium tomato (diced)
1 1/2 tablespoon Caribbean Green Seasoning
1 small Scotch Bonnet pepper (sliced)
1 1/2 tablespoon curry powder
1 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoon golden brown sugar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
3 cups water
5 medium potatoes (cut into large pieces)
2 tablespoon chopped parsley (see note)

Notes! May I recommend that you use the video below to follow along as much more about the recipe is discussed there. Especially the ‘stewing’ part, which can be a bit tricky. If you’re making this recipe gluten free please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet your specific gluten free dietary requirements. I opted for an entire Scotch Bonnet pepper in the recipe as I enjoy spicy food, but you can leave it out or use as much as you can tolerate.

I used chicken legs with the back attached (essentially drums and thighs) which were cut into serving sized pieces. The skin and most of the fat was removed. Then I went on to wash it with cool water and the juice of a lime. Since this washing of chicken is controversial, I didn’t include the lime (you can also use the juice of a lemon or 3/4 cup white vinegar) in the ingredient list.

Season the prepped chicken with the salt, black pepper, tomato, onion, Caribbean Green Seasoning, curry powder, Scotch Bonnet pepper and allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours. I discuss why in the video below.

While the seasoning with the curry powder (and marinating) is the “Curry” step of the recipe. The next step which is to caramelize the sugar and add the seasoned chicken, is what we refer to as the ‘stew’ element of the dish. Heat the olive oil in a wide, deep and heavy pot on a medium high flame and add the brown sugar. Please use the video below to follow along. IMPORTANT! Should the sugar go BLACK, STOP! Turn off the stove, move the pot to a cool burner and allow it to cool completely, then wash it and start over. If not, you’ll end up with bitter tasting chicken. The sugar will melt, go frothy, then a deep amber color. While this is happening may I recommend you use a dry spoon (metal or wood as plastic may melt with the high heat) to stir, and keep in mind that your kitchen will go smoky. Once you have that deep amber color, carefully start adding the seasoned chicken to the pot and stir well to coat.

Yes, you may add the marinade as well. Turn the heat down to medium, place the lid on the pot and bring to a boil. Yes, it will spring its own natural juices. Once it comes to the boil, reduce to a simmer, place the lid on slightly ajar and cook for about 6 minutes. In the same bowl you marinated the chicken in, add the 3 cups of water and swish around to pick up any remaining marinade.

After 6 minutes, remove the lid (I did stir it a few times), turn the heat back up to medium high to burn off any liquid that may be left in the pot. This step will intensify the flavor and color of the dish. At this point you’ll add the potato pieces, along with the grated ginger. Should you want to add a Bay Leaf or 2, it will add additional flavor to the finished dish. TIP! do 1 1/2 cups water and 1 1/2 cups coconut milk for a richer gravy at the end.

Add the liquid and bring to a boil. Then reduce to a rolling boil and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the potato pieces are tender. This can take between 20 and 25 minutes.

Once it’s going on that rolling boil, place the lid back on slightly ajar.

Keep an eye on the level of your liquid and don’t be afraid to add a bit more water should the need arise. Once the potato starts falling apart and the chicken is fully cooked, it’s time to personalize things.

Taste and adjust the salt to your liking, and determine if the gravy is the thickness you enjoy. Keep in mind that the residual heat in the pot will further cook/thicken things and as it cools it will also thicken.

Traditionally you’d finish with chopped Chadon Beni (culantro), however all I had on hand was parsley, which also works excellent! Another option would be Cilantro (coriander) if you wanted.

If you find that your gravy is a bit too thin you can cook a bit longer or use the back of your spoon and crush a few pieces of the potato.

I truly hope you get an opportunity to give this recipe a try as it’s one that’s very dear to me.

Gluten Free Seafood

Spinach Bhagi.

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While the classic way of making this dish is to use the tender leaves of the Dasheen (taro) plant, the end result of using baby spinach as I’m about to share, is just as tasty. Whether it’s served with Dhal and Rice or alongside hot Sada Roti, bhagi remains one of my favorite vegetarian dishes. Yes, this version contains pieces of salted Cod (fish), but you can easily omit it and have a fully vegan dish.

You’ll Need…

1 1/2 tablespoon Olive oil
1 1/2 cup prepared salted Cod
1 medium onion (sliced)
6-8 cloves garlic (smashed)
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 Bird’s Eye Peppers (rough chopped)
2 lbs baby spinach (washed/drained)
salt (see below)
1 medium tomato (diced)

Notes. Add 1-2 tablespoons of coconut cream for a lovely flavor and if you’re someone who gets an itch at the back of your throat from eating spinach, add the juice of 1/2 a lemon juice when you turn off the stove. May I recommend that you follow along with the video below as much more about the recipe is discussed there. If making this recipe gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your gluten free dietary requirements. I didn’t add any salt to the dish as the remnants of salt from the salted Cod was enough to season things for me.

May I recommend that you buy boned (boneless) salted cod or any of your fav salted fish and use the video above to learn how to prepare it for use. Essentially you’ll have to remove the salt it was cured in and in the process, rehydrate it a bit so it’s more meaty and tender.

Heat the olive oil in a wide pan on a medium flame, then add the prepared salted Cod bits, along with the onion, garlic, hot pepper (I used Bird’s Eye but you may use our fav and in the amount you can tolerate) and black pepper. Turn the heat to low and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Turn the heat back to medium and start adding the washed/drained spinach to the pot and stir. If you wanted you could give the spinach a rough chop. It will seem like a lot, but it will wilt as it cooks. Keep adding in batches and stir.

In a few minutes it will all wilt and fit, you’ll also notice that it will spring a lot of liquid. That’s normal.

Add the diced tomato and continue cooking on a medium/low flame with the pot uncovered.

At this point you can add the coconut cream if you decide to rock that tip for additional flavor.

About twenty minutes later the liquid should all be gone, turn the heat up a bit to burn off any that’s remaining. Taste for salt and adjust to your liking at this point as well.

Finish with the lemon juice mentioned in the notes above, if you wish. At the start of the post I mentioned how I enjoy this dish, what I failed to say was that you must also have a side of Lime or Lemon Peppersauce to really feel like you’re back in the Caribbean enjoying this dish.

Gluten Free Meat & Poultry

Curry Goat With Pigeon Peas.

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Across the Caribbean we’ve got our ‘own’ way of making Curry Goat and over the years I’ve shared the sort of Classic Curry Goat, an Outdoor Fiery Curry Goat, Slow Cooker Curry Goat, a One Hour Curry Goat using a pressure cooker, Curry Goat Done In The Oven and the Classic Jamaican Curry Goat. While they’re all brilliant recipes, this version is a bit different and probably the easiest as you’re about to learn.

You’ll Need…

3 lbs goat (with bones)
1 lemon (juice)
1 medium onion (sliced)
8 cloves garlic (smashed)
3/4 tablespoon ground masala
1 teaspoon ground roasted cumin (geera)
5-7 bird’s eye peppers
2 tablespoon Caribbean Green Seasoning
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon turmeric
3 tablespoon curry powder
3/4 tablespoon grated ginger
3 bay leaves
3/4 tablespoon salt (adjust)
1 large tomato (diced)
1 1/2 cups pigeon peas
5-7 cups water
3 tablespoon chopped chadon beni (culantro)

Notes! May I recommend that you follow along with the video below as much more about the recipe is discussed there. If making this recipe gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet your specific gluten free dietary requirements. Should you not have lemon juice to wash the goat, you may use lime juice or 1/4 cup of white vinegar. While boneless goat means not having to deal with bones when you serve this curry dish, IMHO you get a deeper flavor with bone-in meats.

Get your butcher to cut the goat for you (if you’re using bone-in as I did) as the bones will be very tough to cut at home. Then wash with the juice of the lemon and cool water. Drain, then place in your large pot on a medium/low flame. As explained in the video, the goal is to render out some of the fat and discard it.

After about 25-30 minutes I removed most of the fat that rendered, but I did leave back about a tablespoon in the pot. It’s now time to add the Onion, garlic, Caribbean Green Seasoning, geera (ground roasted cumin), black pepper, ground Masala and Bird’s Eye peppers. You may use any spicy peppers you like and in the amounts you can tolerate. Stir well and cook for 3-5 minutes.

After this add the turmeric, curry powder and ginger and cook for about 3-5 minutes. The goal is to cook out the rawness of the curry and in doing so, we’ll bloom the spices which make up a good curry powder.

Add the rinsed (was frozen) pigeon peas along with the tomato and bay leaves. I much prefer using Bay leaves than Curry leaves, but that’s just my choice. Stir well.

Turn the heat to medium high, add the salt and 5 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer for 2 and 1/2 hours. During the cooking process I did end up adding an additional 2 cups of water to the pot. Yes, stir every 20-30 minutes.

Depending on the age of the goat when it was butchered, it should be tender at this point. Here’s where you’ll now taste and adjust the salt to your liking and determine if the gravy is as thick as you’d like it. Keep in mind that it will further thicken as it cools.

Toss in the chopped shado beni (culantro) or should you not have that on hand, cilantro (coriander) will also work.

Serve with rice or Buss Up Shut Roti and a side of Mango Talkari.

Bok choy and corned beef in pan
Gluten Free Meat & Poultry

Bok Choy with Corned Beef.

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This Bok Choy (Shanghai Bok Choi) recipe is loosely based on the way mom would make her Fry Pak Choi With Saltfish as well as her classic Fry Pak Choi with Stewed Pork, we grew up enjoying with Sada Roti. In this version we’re simply using leftover Corned Beef (bully beef) I had from dinner a couple nights ago.

You’ll Need…

1/2 cup leftover fried corned beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion (sliced)
3 lbs shanghai bok choy
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust)
8-10 grape tomatoes (1/2)

Notes. Please use the video below to follow along as much more about the recipe is discussed there. If making this dish gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your specific gluten free dietary requirements. Especially the canned corned beef that’s used.

Heat the olive oil is a wide pan on a medium flame then add the leftover corned beef. As it heats up, add the sliced onion and stir well. Should you want to add crushed garlic and spicy peppers, do so now.

Three minutes later add the white parts of the Bok Choy (as explained in the video) to the pot and stir well. Cook for 4-6 minutes. Do not cover the pan/pot.

While the corned beef will have a sodium element to it, you’ll still need to add more salt (as I did at this point).

It’s now time to add the green parts and stir well. Please note that traditionally we’d chop everything MUCH smaller but as explained in the video, I wanted this dish to take on a sort of stir fry feel.

Top with the tomato and cook for 3-4 minutes. However I like a slight crunch to my Bok Choy, so with that in mind you may cook longer. Mommy would cook this until all of the liquid was gone.

Remember to taste and adjust the salt to your liking.

Recipe Card

Bok choy and corned beef in pan
Print Recipe

Bok Choy with Corned Beef

Cuisine: Recipe Keys: Quick Meals
Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins
Servings: 4

Description

A quick and flavorful Caribbean stir-fry combining tender bok choy and savory corned beef, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Instructions

Video

  1. Heat the olive oil in a wide sauté pan over medium heat. Add the leftover fried corned beef and sliced onion to the pan. Stir well and cook for about 3 minutes until the onions are translucent.

  2. Add the white stalks of the bok choy to the pan. Stir to combine and cook for 4–6 minutes, uncovered, until the stalks begin to soften.

  3. Season with sea salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.

  4. Add the green leaves of the bok choy to the pan. Stir well and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the leaves are wilted but still vibrant.

  5. Top the dish with the halved grape tomatoes. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly.

  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.

Note

Please use the video below to follow along as much more about the recipe is discussed there. If making this dish gluten free, please go through the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your specific gluten free dietary requirements. Especially the canned corned beef that’s used.

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Gluten Free Vegetarian

Bhagi – Spinach With Okra.

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Yes, for the untrained eye and palate this may appear as Callaloo (in a post apocalyptic world where crab, crayfish, lobster, shrimp, salted pigtail, smoked turkey etc no longer exist), however this is just another form of Bhagi to me. Served with hot Sada Roti and lime peppersauce on the side for what is a very comforting vegan meal.

You’ll Need…

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion (sliced)
6-8 cloves garlic (smashed)
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 Bird’s Eye peppers (chopped)
1 lb okra (trimmed and cut)
2 lbs spinach (washed/chopped)
3-4 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust)
1-2 tablespoon coconut cream
6-8 grape tomatoes (chopped)

Notes! Please use the video below to follow along as much more about the recipe is explained there. if making this dish gluten free, please refer to the list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your specific gluten free dietary needs.

Prep the spinach by washing well and give it a rough chop. With the okra (say ochro) wash, remove the stems and cut into 1/4 inch wheels.

Heat the olive oil (any oil you prefer using) on a wide/deep saucepan on a medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, black pepper and in my case I used Bird’s Eye peppers for a bit of heat. You may use any hot pepper you like or can source and in the amounts you can tolerate. Should you not enjoy spicy foods, this is optional. Reduce the hat to low and cook for about 4 minutes.

Turn the heat back up to medium and add the okra, stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes before adding the spinach.

It will pile up but as it cooks the spinach will wilt and you’ll have enough room for everything. You may use a lid to help create steam should you wish to quicken this step. This is when I added the water to help create that steam.

It’s then time to add the salt, chopped tomatoes (use any tomato you may have on hand) and the coconut cream. Turn the heat down to med/low and with the lid on (slightly ajar) cook for 25-35 minutes.

It will not be a ‘pretty’ dish and the texture may be a bit ‘slimy’ due to the inclusion of the okra. However it’s ranked as one of the top vegan dishes you’ll ever make.

It’s now time to personalize things a bit. taste and adjust the salt to your liking and this is when you’ll also decide if you want it a bit runny or as in my case, I gave it another 5-7 minutes to tighten up a bit more (got rid of all the liquid).