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Japanese Soy Braised Acorn Squash Recipe

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post is about a Japanese Soy Braised Acorn Squash Recipe!

Wedges of cooked acorn squash with sprinkles of Japanese chili pepper on a white dish with chopsticks resting on the side, an acorn squash to the left of the white dish and a few white rose petals.

Simmering acorn squash with Japanese ingredients including soy sauce, sake, and mirin is a totally delicious way to enjoy acorn squash.

In Japan, kabocha squash (Japanese pumpkin) is typically cooked in a similar fashion as this. I find that acorn squash is a fabulous substitute!

You'll find that this recipe offers you a great way to enjoy this lovely winter squash!

Why You Will LOVE This Recipe!

I know you will absolutely LOVE this recipe as much as my family does because:

  • It's incredibly delicious! The simple ingredients we use in this recipe combine to give this wonderful winter squash a deep and rich savory flavor that you won't be able to get enough of.
  • This recipe is super easy! You only need 5 ingredients (and an optional garnish of Japanese chili peppers) for this dish, which cooks up in a flash.
  • Japanese inspired simmered acorn squash makes a perfect side dish to accompany your favorite main dishes. Or, you can simply enjoy it with steamed rice and a runny egg, as I am apt to do!

Let me now show you the simple ingredients you will need to make this delightful side dish!

🥘 Ingredients

An acorn squash, carton of chicken broth, bottle of soy sauce, bottle of sake, mirin, and Ichimi Togarashi Japanese Chili Pepper on a wooden table.

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this simple side dish:

  • Acorn squash - around 1 pound in weight
  • Soy Sauce
  • Sake
  • Mirin
  • Chicken broth (or vegetable broth) - we will use around 1 cup of this broth, but please reserve another cup or so just in case needed
  • Japanese chili pepper Ichimi Togarashi or Nanami Togarashi. This is optional, but I love the extra bit of kick these chili peppers give this dish.

So you only really need 5 simple ingredients for this recipe, but I do highly recommend the Japanese chili pepper so that would make it 6. 😃

Now let's move on to the very simple instructions to make this delicious acorn squash!

🔪 Instructions

As mentioned, it's super easy to make this dish. The hardest part is cutting up the squash and removing the seeds and pulp. Once you've achieved that it's all downhill from there!

Acorn squash, with its beautiful orange flesh, has a fairly tough skin. Please be sure to use a sharp knife and take care with your fingers. The best way I find to prepared the squash is to top and tail it first (cut off the top and bottom). Then cut it down the middle and remove the seeds and pulp (save the seeds for roasting if you like). Now cut the squash into 1" wedges.

Wedges of acorn squash, a quarter portion of an acorn squash with seeds removed, and 2 large wedges of squash with seeds intact.

Add all the ingredients to a wide bottomed saucepan or skillet. Try to place the squash in a single layer if you can. Now bring to the boil. You'll want most of the liquid to cover the squash so if you need to add a little more broth that's fine.
Now lower to a simmer, and cover. Cook between 20-30 minutes or to your desired level of tenderness.

Wedges of acorn squash in a saucepan with soy braising liquid.
Add all the ingredients to a saucepan and try to cover the squash with the liquids.
Wedges of acorn squash cooking in a saucepan with soy braising liquid and steam rising from the pan.
Bring to the boil and then simmer for around 20-30 minutes.

💭 Top tip

The squash is quite fragile and will fall apart easily. If you want your squash to be intact and not so mushy as this, then it's best to keep the squash in a single layer and not move them around very much if at all.

As you can see, this squash fell apart on me (plus side...it's so tender!) so to avoid this try not to disturb the squash while cooking and try not to crowd them as seen below.

Also when removing the squash from your pan or skillet, take extra care by removing them delicately with a kitchen turner so they don't fall apart.

Tender wedges of acorn squash cooked in a soy braising liquid with a pair of chopsticks holding some of the squash.
The simmered acorn squash is so tender it fell apart on me! But I like it that way. 😃

The last step is to sprinkle some Japanese chili pepper Ichimi Togarashi or Nanami Togarashi over the squash if using.

Cooked wedges of acorn squash in a soy braising liquid and a hand holding a bottle of Ichimi Togarashi in the foreground.
I love adding Japanese chili pepper to my squash.

And that's it! Now it's time to enjoy your deliciously tender Japanese simmered acorn squash!

Suggestions For Serving

Wedges of cooked acorn squash with sprinkles of Japanese chili pepper on a white dish with chopsticks resting on the side.

This beautiful and delicious simmered acorn squash is now ready to serve! It's a superb side dish to accompany Japanese main dishes such as Gyudon (Japanese Beef Bowl) as well as Japanese Teriyaki Chicken.

I also enjoy it simply served with rice and some luscious melted butter. Talk about comfort food!

Once you try this dish I'm sure it will become a favorite way to prepare acorn squash.

Enjoy!

FAQ

Can I use Kabocha Squash with this recipe?

Absolutely! Kabocha squash would be perfect simmered with these Japanese ingredients!

Do you need to remove the skin from an acorn squash before cooking?

It's not necessary to remove the skin from an acorn squash before cooking it. The skin is edible, and this recipe will give you a tender flesh and skin which you will devour!

Is kabocha squash the same as acorn squash?

Kabocha squash is different from acorn squash. Kabocha is a Japanese variety of winter squash and is also know as Japanese pumpkin. Acorn squash is a winter squash which originated in North America and Central America.

Some Other Japanese Dishes You May Enjoy!

Here are some other Japanese side dishes that you may enjoy:

Join Me On A Fun Food Journey!

I invite you to come along on this food journey with me! Please sign up to get the latest recipes and inspiration for you to expand your food comfort zone! It's an incredible journey, please join me by signing up here.

Cheers!

Grace

Wedges of cooked acorn squash with sprinkles of Japanese chili pepper on a white dish with chopsticks resting on the side, an acorn squash to the left of the white dish.

Japanese Soy Braised Acorn Squash Recipe

Grace
Braising Acorn Squash with Japanese ingredients including soy sauce, sake, and mirin is a fabulous way to enjoy this wonderful winter squash!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4 people
Calories 86 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 wide bottomed saucepan or large skillet with a cover You will need to cover during cooking and the equipment you use should be wide bottomed or large sized as we aim to place the squash in a single layer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb acorn squash
  • 1 cup chicken broth can sub vegetable broth; please reserve an extra cup of broth if needed
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoon sake
  • 2 tablespoon mirin can sub 2 ts sugar
  • Ichimi Togarashi Japanese chili pepper as optional garnish, to your taste

Instructions
 

  • Top and tail the acorn squash and then cut it down the middle. Remove the seeds and pulp (save the seeds for roasting if you like!), and then cut into 1" wedges.
    Wedges of acorn squash, a quarter portion of an acorn squash with seeds removed, and 2 large wedges of squash with seeds intact.
  • Add all the ingredients to a wide bottomed saucepan or large skillet and bring to the boil. You'll want most of the liquid to cover the squash so if you need to add a little more broth that's fine. PLEASE NOTE: try to lay the squash in a single layer if you can. This will help to avoid having to disturb the squash while cooking.
    Wedges of acorn squash in a saucepan with soy braising liquid.
  • Now lover to a simmer, and cover. Cook between 20-30 minutes or to your desired level of tenderness. I cooked mine for 30 minutes and you can see it is fall apart tender!
    Tender wedges of acorn squash cooked in a soy braising liquid with a pair of chopsticks holding some of the squash.
  • Sprinkle some Japanese chili pepper over the squash if you like to give it a little kick.
    Cooked wedges of acorn squash in a soy braising liquid and a hand holding a bottle of Ichimi Togarashi in the foreground.

Notes

The squash is quite fragile and will fall apart easily. If you want your squash to be intact and not so mushy as this, then it's best to keep the squash in a single layer and not move them around very much if at all.
To avoid mushy squash try not to disturb the squash while cooking and try not to crowd them.
Also when removing the squash from your pan or skillet, take extra care by removing them delicately with a kitchen turner so they don't fall apart.
Great with Japanese chili pepper such as Ichimi Togarashi or Nanami Togarashi!

Nutrition

Calories: 86kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 4gFat: 0.5gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gSodium: 896mgPotassium: 477mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 416IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 43mgIron: 1mg
Keyword acorn squash, winter squash
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Healthy and Delicious Indian Spiced Cabbage Recipe

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post is about a Healthy and Delicious Indian Spiced Cabbage Recipe!

Indian spiced cabbage with tomato and seasonings on a silver plate.
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Cabbage is such a versatile and nutritious vegetable! It's also budget friendly...I remember buying a head of cabbage that must have weighed 4 pounds for for a couple of dollars!

This vegetable is great when fermented to make sauerkraut, and many people also use it to make delicious cabbage soup.

Green cabbage also pairs perfectly with Indian spices. In fact it pairs so well, that it's probably my favorite way to prepare this wonderful cruciferous vegetable.

Allow me to present an easy and delicious recipe for Indian Spiced Cabbage, which I know you will absolutely love!

Why You Should Make This Recipe

If you love Indian cuisine, then you absolutely must try this recipe! And if you are not that familiar with Indian food, then let this be an introduction to this wonderful and delicious cuisine.

You should make this recipe because:

  • It's absolutely delicious. Tender cabbage cooked with ghee and some amazing spices makes for an amazing side dish.
  • This dish is budget friendly. As mentioned, cabbage is so very inexpensive and you can feed a big family on this dish. 😊
  • It's quick to make. You'll need about 30 minutes start to finish to get this wonderful side dish on your table.
  • This is a healthy and nutritious side dish. In addition to the cabbage this dish includes garlic, ginger, and turmeric, all touted for their nutrition and health benefits.

I hope you are getting excited to make this recipe! Now, I will tell you what you'll need for this Indian cabbage recipe.

Indian spiced cabbage with tomato and seasonings on a silver plate.

🥘 Ingredients

Chopped cabbage in a white bowl, ghee, cayenne and garam masala in silver bowls. salt, pepper, and turmeric in a white dish, ginger, several red chilies, tomato, half and onion, and several garlic cloves on a wooden board.

You will need the following fresh ingredients to make this dish:

  • Green cabbage (about 1 pound)
  • Tomato (medium sized)
  • Fresh ginger
  • Fresh garlic
  • Onion
  • Chilies - these are optional but so nice to include to spice things up a bit! I have used a type of Thai chili here. I do recommend Thai or birds eye chilies when cooking Indian food.
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Cayenne
  • Turmeric
  • Garam Masala
  • Ghee (can sub olive oil, but ghee is preferred)

Garam masala is an incredible mix of spices. It typically includes cumin, coriander, cardamom, bay leaves, star anise, cloves, and nutmeg. There are certainly variations and seemingly endless varieties of types of garam masala. They have one thing in common: they are supremely aromatic! Please take the time to inhale the scent of this spice mix when you make this dish.

Ghee, which I lean toward using more and more often in my culinary journey, is clarified butter. This article from Farmer's Almanac actually calls it "culinary liquid magic." It's used extensively in Indian cooking, and it works perfectly to lend this cabbage dish a delicious buttery flavor.

Now let's gather these ingredients and make some amazing and delectable cabbage!

🔪 Instructions For This Indian Spiced Cabbage Recipe

It's super simple to make this dish. Begin by melting the ghee on medium-high heat. Then add minced onion, garlic, ginger, and chilies. Stir 3 minutes until softened, then add all the spices and stir one minute.

Minced onion, garlic, chilies, and ginger in oil in a large skillet.
Sauté the onion, garlic, ginger and chilies in ghee.
Minced onion, garlic, ginger, and chilies, and salt, pepper, cayenne, turmeric, and garam masala in oil in a large skillet.
After sautéing add the spices and stir to incorporate.

Add cabbage and stir, then cover and lower the heat to medium. Cook 10 minutes and stir occasionally. Then add diced tomato and stir it in. Cover and cook another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Please note that if the mixture gets too dry at anytime, just add a bit of water or broth.

Chopped green cabbage.
Add chopped cabbage and cook for 10 minutes covered.
Cooked cabbage with seasonings and garlic, ginger, chilies, and onions and chopped tomato on top of the cabbage in a large skillet.
Then add tomato and cook another 10 minutes covered.

At the end of the cooking time, taste the dish and adjust for seasoning by adding additional salt, pepper, or other spices to your liking.

Your cabbage dish should now be finished cooking and ready to enjoy with your family!

Cooked Indian Spiced Cabbage with tomato in a large skillet with a spoonful of the cabbage in the foreground.
The finished dish...look at that tender cabbage!

How To Serve This Indian Spiced Cabbage

Indian spiced cabbage with tomato and seasonings on a silver plate.

This flavorful dish is the perfect side to accompany your favorite Indian main meals! It could also be the center of a vegetarian meal accompanied by basmati rice, or some naan bread.

I like to serve it alongside Keema do Pyaza (lamb mince curry dish) or Indian Butter Chicken.

Keep this recipe handy for anytime you crave a delicious cabbage dish!

Some Other Indian Recipes You May Enjoy

Here are some other Indian food recipes which are so delicious and that you may enjoy:

Join Me On A Fun Food Journey!

If you'd like to come along on this food journey with me, please sign up to get the latest recipes and inspiration for you to expand your food comfort zone! It's an incredible journey, please join me by signing up here.

Cheers!

Grace

Indian spiced cabbage with tomato and seasonings on a silver plate.

Healthy and Delicious Indian Spiced Cabbage Recipe

Grace
This easy Indian Spiced Cabbage Recipe is the perfect side dish to accompany your favorite Indian dishes! It's healthy and absolutely delish!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 6 mins
Cook Time 24 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Indian
Servings 5 people
Calories 118 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large covered skillet or pot

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb green cabbage chopped
  • 1 medium tomato diced
  • 1 inch ginger peeled and minced
  • ½ onion minced
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 5 each chilies optional but if using I recommend Thai chilies
  • ½ ts salt
  • ¼ ts pepper
  • ¼ ts cayenne
  • ¼ ts turmeric
  • 1 ts garam masala
  • 3 tablespoon ghee

Instructions
 

  • Begin by melting the ghee on medium-high heat. Then add minced onion, garlic, ginger, and chilies. Stir 3 minutes until softened, then add all the spices and stir one minute.
    Minced onion, garlic, ginger, and chilies, and salt, pepper, cayenne, turmeric, and garam masala in oil in a large skillet.
  • Add cabbage and stir, then cover and lower the heat to medium. Cook 10 minutes and stir occasionally. Then add diced tomato and stir it in. Cover and cook another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Please note that if the mixture gets too dry at anytime, just add a bit of water or broth.
    Cooked cabbage with seasonings and garlic, ginger, chilies, and onions and chopped tomato on top of the cabbage in a large skillet.
  • At the end of the cooking time, taste the dish and adjust for seasoning by adding additional salt, pepper, or other spices to your liking. Your cabbage dish should now be finished cooking and ready to enjoy with your family!
    Cooked Indian Spiced Cabbage with tomato in a large skillet with a spoonful of the cabbage in the foreground.

Notes

This flavorful dish is the perfect side to accompany your favorite Indian main meals! It could also be the center of a vegetarian meal accompanied by basmati rice, or some naan bread.
I like to serve it alongside Keema do Pyaza (lamb mince curry dish) or Indian Butter Chicken.
Keep this recipe handy for anytime you crave a delicious cabbage dish!

Nutrition

Calories: 118kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 252mgPotassium: 255mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 342IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cabbage, green cabbage
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Italian Broccoli Recipe With Garlic and Lemon

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This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon associate I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post is about an Italian Broccoli Recipe With Garlic and Lemon!

Broccoli florets in a white bowl with slivers of toasted garlic and a lemony sauce drizzled on top of the garlic.
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I just adore Italian food. The Italians have such a way of using the simplest ingredients that combine to make the most sublime dishes. Italian Broccoli with Garlic and Lemon is one of those dishes. Super simple to make, and as mentioned wonderfully sublime.

Why You Will Love This Italian Broccoli Recipe

Your whole family will absolutely love this Italian Broccoli recipe because:

  • It's absolutely delicious and has a great depth of flavor! One taste of this tender broccoli drizzled with a zingy and lemony garlicky butter sauce will have you craving for more it's so very appetizing!
  • This recipe uses fresh and simple ingredients that are easily found at your local grocery store.
  • It's incredibly simple to make. The hardest part is ensuring that you don't burn the thin cut slivers of garlic. But I'll guide you as to how to toast the garlic so that you will get beautiful golden brown garlic that doesn't burn.
  • You can have this ready to enjoy in around 15 minutes.

Let me show you what you'll need to make this fantastic and delicious side dish!

🥘 Ingredients

Broccoli florets in a white bowl, glass bowls containing slivers of garlic and olive oil, a lemon, and white dishes containing salt and pepper, and butter.

We're going to be using the best and freshest ingredients in this simple recipe. You will need the following ingredients:

  • 🥦 Fresh Broccoli, florets cut into small pieces. We will use 1 pound of broccoli, which is approximately 1 large head of broccoli; you can also sub broccoli rabe if you like
  • Fresh garlic cloves, cut thinly into slivers
  • Salt (I have used Himalayan pink salt, but you can use regular salt)
  • Black pepper
  • Lemon zest
  • Lemon juice
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Butter

Select a lemon that is small, and heavy for its size. That way you can determine that it is very juicy!

I'm getting excited to go through the steps of making this Italian broccoli recipe. I hope you are eager to make it!

🔪 Instructions

Bring some salted water in a large pot to a boil on a medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and then boil for around 4-5 minutes for al dente, or to your desired tenderness. Then drain the broccoli using a colander or remove with a slotted spoon. Set it aside, and keep it warm while we make our zesty sauce. 

Broccoli florets in water in a large pot.

Zest ½ of your lemon. I think a zester is one of the great tools that you can have at your disposal and I use my Oxo Zester often.

Then juice the entire lemon.

Lemon zest in a white bowl with a zester resting on top of the bowl and a green juicer with lemon seeds and lemon juice underneath the white bowl.

Add 4 tablespoons of olive oil (¼ cup) and butter to a large pan (cast iron is preferred) on medium-low heat. Now add the thin slivers of garlic. Saute the garlic until it turns a lovely shade of golden brown, as seen below.

You'll want to keep a close eye on this, because when it seems nothing is happening with your garlic, all of a sudden it starts to turn brown! A little patience may be required here, but stick with it and you will be rewarded with gorgeous toasted garlic. It took me around 4-5 minutes, and please be sure to stir often during this process.

A cast iron pan with olive oil and melted butter, slivers of toasted garlic, salt and pepper, lemon juice and lemon zest.

Once the garlic turns golden brown, then add the salt, pepper, lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir to combine thoroughly.

The last step is to pour this beautiful sauce over your warmed broccoli.

Broccoli florets in a white bowl with slivers of toasted garlic and a lemony sauce in a white bowl being drizzled on top of the garlic.

How To Serve This Italian Broccoli Side Dish

Broccoli florets in a white bowl with slivers of toasted garlic and a lemony sauce drizzled on top of the garlic.

The BEST way to enjoy this healthy and delicious Italian broccoli is immediately. It's a wonderful side dish to accompany your favorite main meals. I love to serve this with Veal Parmigiana and Ribeye Steak.

I hope that you will take some time to create this dish in your home and savor its wonderful and zingy flavors with so much garlicky goodness! This may become your favorite way to serve broccoli 🥦.

A printable recipe card with nutritional information is available below.

FAQ

How can I store any leftover broccoli?

Store any leftover broccoli in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 2 days.

What can I add to broccoli to make it taste better?

This recipe uses garlic and lemon to give this broccoli side dish a fantastic flavor! You can also add some Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano, or even red pepper flakes if you like!

What is broccoli called in Italy?

In Italy, broccoli is called Broccolo! Practice saying Broccolo with an Italian accent it's fun!

Some Other Delicious Recipes You May Enjoy

Here are some other side dish recipes that you may enjoy:

Join Me On A Fun Food Journey!

If you'd like to come along on this food journey with me, please sign up to get the latest recipes and inspiration for you to expand your food comfort zone! It's an incredible journey, please join me by signing up here.

Buon Appetito!

Grace

Broccoli florets in a white bowl with slivers of toasted garlic and a lemony sauce drizzled on top of the garlic.

Italian Broccoli Recipe With Garlic and Lemon

Grace
Italian Broccoli With Garlic and Lemon is an easy, healthy, and delicious side dish! Your whole family will love the zingy, garlicky, and sumptuous sauce drizzled over tender broccoli.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Total Time 15 mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Calories 660 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot to boil the broccoli
  • Large pan or skillet to make the sauce

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb broccoli florets cut into bite sized pieces; you can sub broccoli rabe if you like
  • 4 cloves garlic cut thinly into slivers
  • ¼ ts salt
  • ¼ ts pepper
  • 1 each lemon zest of half a lemon and juice from the entire lemon (select a small lemon)
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions
 

  • Begin by boiling the broccoli florets in some salted water in a large pot. Boil for around 4-5 minutes, or to your desired tenderness, and then drain the broccoli. Set it aside, and keep it warm while we make our zesty sauce.
    Broccoli florets in water in a large pot.
  • Zest ½ of your lemon and then juice the entire lemon.
    Lemon zest in a white bowl with a zester resting on top of the bowl and a green juicer with lemon seeds and lemon juice underneath the white bowl.
  • Add the olive oil and butter to a large skillet (cast iron is preferred) on medium low heat. Now add the thin slivers of garlic. Saute the garlic until it turns a lovely shade of golden brown, as seen in the picture. You'll want to keep a close eye on this, because when it seems nothing is happening with your garlic, all of a sudden it starts to turn brown! A little patience may be required here, but stick with it and you will be rewarded with gorgeous toasted garlic. It took me around 4-5 minutes, and please be sure to stir often during this process. Once the garlic turns golden brown, then add the salt, pepper, lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir to combine thoroughly.
    A cast iron pan with olive oil and melted butter, slivers of toasted garlic, salt and pepper, lemon juice and lemon zest.
  • The last step is to pour this beautiful sauce over your warmed broccoli.
    Broccoli florets in a white bowl with slivers of toasted garlic and a lemony sauce in a white bowl being drizzled on top of the garlic.

Nutrition

Calories: 660kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 14gFat: 56gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 40gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 1507mgFiber: 12gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 2853IUVitamin C: 409mgCalcium: 254mgIron: 4mg
Keyword broccoli, vegetable side dish, vegetables
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Easy And Elegant White Asparagus Side Dish Recipe

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post is about an Easy and Elegant White Asparagus Side Dish Recipe!

White asparagus in butter topped with browned melted cheese and garnished with Italian parsley in a white dish.
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Fresh white asparagus is more common in grocery stores or a farmer's market than it used to be, but it's not always easy to find. If you can't find fresh white asparagus, you may be able to get your hands on white asparagus in a jar or can.

What can you do with white asparagus in a jar? Well...you can make an easy, delicious, and elegant side dish with it. Let me show you how!

What is White Asparagus?

White asparagus, similar to the Belgian endive, is grown underground under mounds of soil to keep light from reaching it. No photosynthesis occurs without the light of day, so the spears remain white.

The white asparagus is more fibrous than the regular green asparagus, and therefore requires more peeling due to its tough outer layer. It also has a milder taste and more delicate flavor than the green variety, with a slight bitterness to it.

Bundles of fresh white asparagus and green asparagus.
Beautiful fresh white asparagus as seen at my grocery store

White asparagus is highly treasured in Europe, and becoming more popular in the United States.

Germany especially love their white asparagus. They actually refer to their German white asparagus as "white gold."

The white asparagus season is roughly mid-April to early summer, around the end of June. So it definitely has a very short season and I'm always excited to see any asparagus herald the arrival of spring!

I am thrilled to share an easy recipe using jarred white asparagus which you will absolutely love! This recipe is inspired by and adapted from the fantastic book "365 Easy Italian Recipes" by Rick Marzullo O'Connell.

Why You Will LOVE This Delicious Recipe

You will absolutely love this recipe for the following reasons:

  • It's SUPER SIMPLE! All you have to do is drain the white asparagus from a can or jar. No vegetable peeler is needed and no breaking off woody ends to prep the asparagus as it's ready to go!
  • There are a number of ways to cook white asparagus from a jar, but a quick broil with cheese and melted butter has got to be one of the BEST ways to prepare this!

Ingredients

Here are the key ingredients that you will need to make this easy and elegant side dish:

  • White asparagus stalks (jarred or canned)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Butter
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Cayenne pepper (a pinch is optional and gives a nice heat!)
  • Italian parsley as garnish
  • Wedge of lemon (optional)
White asparagus in a glass jar, Himalayan salt and pepper grinders, white dishes with butter, minced Italian parsley and cayenne, and a glass bowl with shredded Parmesan cheese.

You should be able to find all of these ingredients at your grocery store. I have included Amazon links to both jarred and canned white asparagus in this post so ordering from Amazon is an option. However, purchasing this item on Amazon is very expensive. So, it's best to search for jarred or canned white asparagus at your local grocer.

Please gather your ingredients and let's take 5 or so minutes to make this delicious white asparagus recipe!

Instructions To Make This White Asparagus Side Dish Recipe

Begin by preheating your broiler.

Next, drain the asparagus from the jar or can then place the asparagus on a baking sheet or roasting pan that is broiler safe.

Dot the asparagus with small pieces of butter, then sprinkle the freshly grated cheese on top. Add a little salt and freshly ground pepper.

White asparagus spears topped with dots of butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.

Place under the broiler from between 3-4 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns a lovely shade of golden brown. You'll want to keep a close eye on this so that the dish doesn't start to burn.

White asparagus topped with melting cheese, butter and seasonings in a roasting tray placed under a broiler.
Broil for between 3-5 minutes
White asparagus in a roasting tray which was broiled and has browned melted cheese on top.
Remove when the dish is warmed and
the cheese has melted

The last step is to remove from the oven, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne if you like, then garnish with Italian parsley. Squeeze some lemon juice over with a wedge of lemon if desired!

The dish is now ready to serve!

How To Serve This White Asparagus Side Dish

White asparagus in butter topped with browned melted cheese and garnished with Italian parsley in a white dish.

This delicious side dish with a unique and delicate flavour is best served warmed, right after removing it from your oven.

The tender white variety asparagus spears with a luscious buttery sauce topped with golden brown melted Parmesan is the perfect side dish to accompany your favorite main course dishes. I love to serve mine with Veal Parmigiana, Ribeye Steak, and Baby Back Ribs.

This dish is elegant enough to include as part of your Easter dinner, or another special occasion such as Mother's Day. But, it's also simple enough to indulge in at any meal.

I very much hope that next time you see a jar or can of white asparagus, that you'll snatch it up and make this wonderful dish!

A printable recipe card can be found below. If you make this dish and love it, I would be honored if you could give it a 5 star rating with your comments!

Join Me On A Fun Food Journey!

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Cheers!

Grace

White asparagus in butter topped with browned melted cheese and garnished with Italian parsley in a white dish.

Easy And Elegant White Asparagus Side Dish

Grace
This Easy And Elegant White Asparagus Side Dish uses jarred or canned white asparagus spears. It's an absolutely superb dish that you will fall head over heels for!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 2 mins
Cook Time 3 mins
Total Time 5 mins
Course Side Dish, vegetable side dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 3 people
Calories 55 kcal

Equipment

  • baking sheet or roasting pan must be broiler safe

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz jarred White Asparagus Can use canned as well and amount can be up to 1 lb
  • pinch salt to taste
  • pinch pepper freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated if possible
  • pinch cayenne pepper optional but gives a nice heat!
  • 1 ts Italian parsley minced as garnish
  • 1 wedge Lemon optional

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your broiler. Next, drain the asparagus from the jar or can then place the asparagus on a baking sheet or roasting pan that is broiler safe. Dot the asparagus with the small pieces of butter, then sprinkle the freshly grated cheese on top. Add a little salt and freshly ground pepper.
    White asparagus spears topped with dots of butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
  • Place under the broiler from between 3-4 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns a lovely shade of golden brown. You'll want to keep a close eye on this so that the dish doesn't start to burn.
    White asparagus topped with melting cheese, butter and seasonings in a roasting tray placed under a broiler.
  • The last step is to remove from the oven, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne if you like, then garnish with Italian parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired!
    White asparagus in butter topped with browned melted cheese and garnished with Italian parsley in a white dish.

Notes

Please note the nutritional information should be used as a guide only, and for example will depend according to how much salt you decide to use.
This dish is elegant enough for special occasions, yet easy enough for a simple weeknight meal.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 55kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 5gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 136mgPotassium: 239mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 126mgIron: 3mg
Keyword asparagus, vegetables, white asparagus
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Easy and Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post is about how to make Easy and Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes!

Mashed sweet potatoes in a gold rimmed bowl with melted butter and chives on top of the mashed potatoes.
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Ok, these Easy and Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes are to die for! My family is head over heels for these and you will be too. 😊

Why You NEED To Make This Creamy Fluffy Sweet Potato Mash!

I do believe that these Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes may just become your favorite way to enjoy this wonderful root vegetable.

You will love this recipe because:

  • It's over the top delish. It's that good.
  • This mash is sooo creamy. I include a generous amount of butter and heavy cream (why not?) to ensure its richness.
  • The resulting dish is beautiful. Sweet potatoes with their orange flesh are gorgeous. Top a mound of mashed sweet potatoes with melting butter and chives and you have an awesome sight to behold.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is mixed in for cheesiness. I do recommend that you use Parmigiano Reggiano, which is the real deal. Freshly grate it yourself for best results!
  • It's super easy and quick to make. 8 ingredients and about 20 minutes and you'll have an elegant side dish ready for your family to enjoy!
  • You'll enjoy the FLUFFIEST SWEET POTATO MASH EVER.

If that sounds good, please read on and I'll tell you what you will need for this easy side dish recipe!

Ingredients You Will Need For This Sweet Potato Recipe

You will only need 8 ingredients for this fantastic mash! Most of these are ingredients you already probably have in your pantry. And all of these ingredients are available at most grocery stores.

2 sweet potatoes, butter on a dish, block of Parmigiano Reggiano, chives, pink salt, pepper, and garlic powder on a white dish with 3 sections, and cream in a glass bowl.

They are:

  • Sweet potatoes
  • Salt (I used Himalayan Pink Salt, but regular salt will work too)
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Heavy cream
  • Butter
  • Chives

I highly recommend that you grate Parmigiano Reggiano yourself for the most awesome results!

Zyliss cheese grater and block of Parmigiano reggiano

You can use a box grater to grate your cheese, or even better, use my favorite tool to grate hard cheese...the Zyliss Cheese Grater!

Now it's onto the instructions for how to make this perfect side dish!

Easy Instructions

Peel and cut up your sweet potatoes into small pieces. Place the sweet potato pieces in a saucepan and add enough water to cover by one inch. Add a pinch of salt, and bring this to the boil on medium high heat.

Cubes of sweet potatoes in water.

Cook the cut up sweet potato in lightly salted boiling water for 10 minutes or until fork tender then drain. Keep the water boiling on medium high heat, or turn it down a bit if the water is boiling over.

Cubes of sweet potatoes in boiling water in a saucepan with a fork piercing one of the sweet potato cubes in the foreground.

Now turn off the heat and return the drained sweet potatoes to the saucepan. Then add butter, seasonings, Parmesan cheese and heavy cream and stir to combine.

Cubes of sweet potatoes with cream, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and seasonings in a saucepan.

Use a hand mixer on a low setting to mix until the mash is super duper fluffy! If you don't have a hand mixer, you can use a masher it's all good!

Mashed sweet potatoes in a saucepan with a yellow silicone spoon and the whisk attachments of a hand blender in the bed of mashed sweet potatoes.

Now mix in your chives, and add extra butter on top when it's served if you like!

Creamy mashed sweet potatoes with chives.

Enjoy Your Creamy Fluffy Mashed Potatoes!

Mashed sweet potatoes in a gold rimmed bowl with melted butter and chives on top of the mashed potatoes.

Now it's time to enjoy your sweet potato mash! This is the perfect side dish to serve any day of the week! Enjoy with your favorite main dishes. I like to serve these with:

I'm pretty sure your family will demand that you keep this Easy Mashed Potatoes recipe handy. That way you can enjoy it as a regular part of your meal rotations!

Bon appetit!!

FAQ

How long do you boil sweet potatoes for?

I recommend that you boil sweet potatoes that have been cut into small pieces for around 10 minutes. This should be enough time for them to become fork tender and ready for mashing.

Is it better to peel sweet potatoes before boiling?

You don't have to peel the sweet potatoes prior to boiling, but I prefer to do so. If you leave the peel on, the texture of the mashed potatoes won't be as creamy and boiling time will be longer than 10 minutes.

Join Me On A Fun Food Journey!

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Cheers!u

Grace

Mashed sweet potatoes in a gold rimmed bowl with melted butter and chives on top of the mashed potatoes.

Easy and Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Grace
Ok, these Easy and Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes are to die for! Creamy, cheesy and oh so fluffy, these may just become your fave way to enjoy this great root veg!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 20 mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 3 people
Calories 284 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 hand mixer can use a hand masher
  • cheese grater I use Zyliss brand cheese grater (can use a box grater)

Ingredients
  

  • 1-1.25 lb sweet potatoes peeled and cut into small pieces
  • ½ ts salt plus additional to salt the water
  • ½ ts pepper
  • ½ ts garlic powder
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 6 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon chives minced

Instructions
 

  • Peel and cut up your sweet potatoes into small pieces. Place the sweet potato pieces in a saucepan and add enough water to cover by one inch. Add a pinch of salt, and bring this to the boil on medium high heat.
    Cubes of sweet potatoes in water.
  • Cook the cut up sweet potato in lightly salted boiling water for 10 minutes or until fork tender then drain. Keep the water boiling on medium high heat, or turn it down a bit if the water is boiling over.
    Cubes of sweet potatoes in boiling water in a saucepan with a fork piercing one of the sweet potato cubes in the foreground.
  • Now turn off the heat and return the drained sweet potatoes to the saucepan. Then add butter, seasonings, Parmesan cheese and heavy cream.
    Cubes of sweet potatoes with cream, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and seasonings in a saucepan.
  • Use a hand mixer on a low setting to mix until the mash is super duper fluffy! If you don't have a hand mixer, you can use a masher it's all good!
    Mashed sweet potatoes in a saucepan with a yellow silicone spoon and the whisk attachments of a hand blender in the bed of mashed sweet potatoes.
  • Now mix in your chives, and add extra butter on top when it's served if you like!
    Creamy mashed sweet potatoes with chives.

Notes

These mashed sweet potatoes are the perfect side dish!  Enjoy with your favorite mains any night of the week!

Nutrition

Calories: 284kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 10gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 775mgPotassium: 596mgFiber: 5gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 21966IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 293mgIron: 1mg
Keyword mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, sweet potato
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Easy Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post is about an Easy Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Recipe!

Zucchini disks which have been roasted with browned cheese on top in a gold rimmed bowl.
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I love zucchini and I love my air fryer. So I recently paired them together and got a magnificent result!

Have you tried cooking zucchini in your air fryer? If not, it's time. 😊

Why You Will Love This Easy Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Recipe

You will love this Easy Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini recipe because:

  • Gotta start with it's DELISH! The zucchini is seasoned perfectly. It's mouthwateringly tender and cheesy, and melts in your mouth!
  • Roasting zucchini in your air fryer is EASY! It takes about 10 minutes of cooking time. I recommend flipping the zucchini after 5 minutes but that's all the effort that is required.
  • Only a few simple ingredients are needed to create this easy air fryer zucchini recipe
  • It's a healthy side dish! Zucchini is also low in carbs and this recipe is low carb even with the Parmesan cheese.
  • This healthy zucchini also makes for a great appetizer

Ok, let me show you what ingredients you will need!

Ingredients You Will Need For This Simple Side Dish

Bottle of extra virgin olive oil, one zucchini, glass dish with grated Parmesan cheese, white dish with pepper, pink salt, and garlic powder

So, here's what you will need to make this roasted zucchini in your air fryer:

  • Fresh zucchini. This recipe uses about 1 pound of zucchini which is roughly 3 small zucchini or 2 medium size zucchini, give or take.
  • Olive oil (could sub avocado oil)
  • Black pepper
  • Salt (I used Himalayan Pink Salt)
  • Garlic powder (could sub onion powder)
  • Parmesan cheese (finely grated)

That's all you need to make this perfect side dish!

By the way, this recipe uses only a little oil to roast the zucchini. I am using olive oil from a bottle, but you could also use an olive oil spray to lightly spray the zucchini.

Easy Recipe Instructions

Here are the easy instructions for this delicious air fryer zucchini recipe.

First, wash and trim both ends of 1 lb of zucchini and cut into zucchini slices ¼" wide.

Next, toss with 2 ts of olive oil, pinch of salt, ¼ ts pepper, ¼ ts garlic powder, and ¼ cup of freshly and finely grated Parmesan cheese.  

Zucchini disks coated with spices and Parmesan cheese in a white bowl.

For best results, place the zucchini slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. You may have to air fry in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Zucchini disks coated with spices and Parmesan cheese in an air fryer basket

 Air fry at 375F for 10 minutes, flipping the zucchini halfway through (5 minutes in).  

GoWise USA Air Fryer With a 375F setting
GoWise USA Air Fryer With a 10 minute setting
The GoWise air fryer that I use is a basket style air fryer.

I recommend that after 5 minutes, decide whether or not you would like to adjust the time to roast your zucchini. This is because there are variations amongst different air fryers so you may need to adjust your cooking time just a bit. Feel free to open up your air fryer at any time to check on your zucchini.

You may also prefer your zucchini a bit more or less tender than my preference. The 10 minutes cook time that I recommend should give you a pretty tender zucchini.

At the end of your cook time, open your air fryer basket and behold your beautiful zucchini! The cheese has melted and turned a beautiful golden brown, and the zucchini is lovely and tender.

Roasted zucchini disks in an air fryer basket

I only add a pinch of salt prior to air frying the zucchini because the Parmesan cheese is salty. At this time, taste and add additional salt to your liking.

Here's a quick video demonstrating how to make this yummy dish!

Enjoy This Perfect Easy Side Dish!

Zucchini disks which have been roasted with browned cheese on top in a gold rimmed bowl.

Enjoy this delectable zucchini, which is best consumed right after air frying it. I think it's perfect as it is, but you could enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauce if you like.

I hope this will be come one of your favorite easy air fryer recipes for zucchini!

FAQ

How can I store this zucchini?

Store any leftover zucchini in an air-tight container in your refrigerator, and eat within 2 days.

What other spices could I use to season this zucchini?

In addition to salt and pepper, you could consider adding some red pepper flakes if you like to spice up your food. An Italian seasoning blend would also be great for this zucchini.

Some Other Recipes You May Enjoy!

Easy Air Fryer Ribeye Steak With Cilantro Garlic Sauce

A cooked ribeye steak on a white plate which is topped with a cilantro garlic sauce and the sauce is also drizzled on the plate next to the steak.

Super Easy Air Fryer Toast Recipe!

Piece of buttered rye bread toast on a white plate with a knife on the left hand side.

Join Me On A Fun Food Journey!

I invite you to come along on this food journey with me! Please sign up to get the latest recipes and inspiration for you to expand your food comfort zone! It's an incredible journey, please join me by signing up here. 😊

Cheers!

Grace

Zucchini disks which have been roasted with browned cheese on top.

Easy Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini

Grace
Roasting zucchini in your air fryer is super easy! Here we add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an Easy Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 3 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 13 mins
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 3 people
Calories 86 kcal

Equipment

  • air fryer I use the GoWISE USA 7-Quart Electric Air Fryer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb zucchini ends trimmed off and cut into slices ¼" wide
  • 2 ts olive oil can also sub avocado oil, or use an olive oil spray to lightly spray the zucchini
  • ¼ ts black pepper
  • pinch salt I used Himalayan pink salt (plus additional to taste)
  • ¼ ts garlic powder can sub onion powder
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese finely grated

Instructions
 

  • First, wash and trim both ends of 1 lb of zucchini and cut into zucchini slices ¼" wide. Next, toss with 2 ts of olive oil, pinch of salt, ¼ ts pepper, ¼ ts garlic powder, and ¼ cup of freshly and finely grated Parmesan cheese.  
    Zucchini disks coated with spices and Parmesan cheese in a white bowl.
  • Place the zucchini slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. You may have to air fry in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
    Zucchini disks coated with spices and Parmesan cheese in an air fryer basket
  •  Air fry at 375F for 10 minutes, flipping the zucchini halfway through (5 minutes in).  
    GoWise USA Air Fryer With a 375F setting
  • At the end of your cook time, open your air fryer basket and behold your beautiful zucchini! At this time, taste and add additional salt to your liking.
    Roasted zucchini disks in an air fryer basket

Notes

I recommend that after 5 minutes, decide whether or not you would like to adjust the time to roast your zucchini. This is because there are variations amongst different air fryers so you may need to adjust your cooking time just a bit. Feel free to open up your air fryer at any time to check on your zucchini.
You may also prefer your zucchini a bit more or less tender than my preference. The 10 minutes cook time that I recommend should give you a pretty tender zucchini.
I think it's perfect as it is, but you could enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauce if you like! 

Nutrition

Calories: 86kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 146mgPotassium: 407mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 368IUVitamin C: 27mgCalcium: 123mgIron: 1mg
Keyword air fryer, roasted zucchini, zucchini
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Easy Spicy Chinese Yu Choy!

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post is about how to make an Easy and Spicy Chinese Yu Choy!

Yu Choy drizzled with spicy sauce on a colorful platter
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If you are after a super quick, easy, delicious, and healthy side dish, look no further!

This recipe for Easy Spicy Chinese Yu Choy ticks all these boxes! Run, don't walk, to your local Asian market and buy this wonderful Chinese green so that you can enjoy this dish! 😊

What Is Yu Choy?

Yu Choy is a green leafy vegetable commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It is also known as Chinese flowering cabbage and Choy Sum.

"Flowering cabbage" is an apt name, as you can see below that this vegetable characteristically has small beautiful yellow flowers.

The flowers, stalks, and stems are all edible!

Yu Choy drizzled with a spicy sauce and some chopsticks holding the yu choy showing off the flowers

What Does This Vegetable Taste Like?

Yu Choy has an earthy and slightly peppery taste. It also has some sweet and bitter undertones. The taste is quite complex, and incredibly delicious!

Choy Sum vs. Bok Choy

You may wonder if Choy Sum is the same as Bok Choy. Although they are related, these greens are different in both taste and appearance.

Choy Sum is green and leafy, and bears small yellow flowers.

Boy Choy has a white bulb (or stalk) and dark green leaves.

They are both equally delicious, but this particular recipe calls for Choy Sum.

What Ingredients Will I Need For This Dish?

Yu choy in the foreground and jar of Spicy Chili Crisp, black pepper, oyster sauce, soy sauce and hot sesame oil in the background

You will need the following ingredients to make this dish:

The hardest part of this dish is gathering the ingredients! Now that you have accomplished the hard part, let's blanch some Yu Choy!

Instructions

You won't believe how easy it is to make this delicious vegetable side dish!

First, combine the sauce ingredients (everything except the Yu Choy and salt) in a small bowl.

spicy chili sauce in a glass bowl with some in a spoon
Nice and spicy!

Wash the greens well, and then blanch it in boiling and salted water.  Blanch anywhere from 30 sec to 1.5 minutes depending on how tender you want your dish to be and how thick the stalks are.  You definitely don't want to overdo the blanching. Try to shoot for tender yet crunchy greens!

If your stalks are very thick, you have the option to cut them off and begin blanching those first, followed by the tender leaves for the last 30 seconds of blanching.

Then drain using tongs, and allow the water to drip off the vegetable.   Aim for as much water to drip off as possible.

Yu choy held by some tongs so that it can drain

Finally, place on a plate and drizzle the spicy sauce over the Yu Choy!

Yu Choy drizzled with a spicy sauce

How To Serve This Chinese Dish!

Serve this fantastic side dish alongside your favorite Chinese main! It would pair well with Chinese BBQ Spare Ribs or perhaps Tantalizing Melt In Your Mouth Dong Po Rou!

You can also just enjoy it with some steamed rice.

Once you try this dish, you'll develop a strong craving for Yu Choy!

Yu Choy on a plate drizzled with a spicy sauce

Some Other Recipes You May Enjoy!

The One and Only Hot and Numbing Chengdu Chicken

Chengdu Chicken
#43 Chengdu Chicken

Healthy and Nutritious Spicy Edamame!

Spicy Edamame and chopsticks
#29 Edamame

Please sign up to get the latest recipes and culinary inspiration! Also come along with me on the 1,000 Foods to Eat Journey by signing up here. 😃

Cheers!

Grace

Yu Choy drizzled with a spicy sauce

Easy Spicy Chinese Yu Choy!

Grace
If you are after a super quick, easy, delicious, and healthy side dish, look no further! Run, don't walk, to your local Asian market and get some Yu Choy so that you can enjoy this dish!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 9 mins
Cook Time 1 min
Total Time 10 mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 3 people

Equipment

  • tongs
  • large pan for blanching

Ingredients
  

  • ½ lb yu choy
  • ½ ts salt to add to the water when blanching the yu choy

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Spicy Chili Crisp (or your favorite Asian Chili oil)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 ts hot sesame oil can sub regular sesame oil
  • pepper to taste (white is preferred but can use black)

Instructions
 

  • Combine the sauce ingredients (everything except the Yu Choy and salt) in a small bowl. Set aside.
    spicy chili sauce in a glass bowl with some in a spoon
  • Bring a large pot of water to the boil and add ½ ts salt. Wash the yu choy well, and then blanch it in the water for 30 seconds to 1.5 minutes depending on how tender you want your dish to be and how thick the stalks are.  Drain using tongs, allowing the water to drip off the vegetables.  
    Yu choy held by some tongs so that it can drain
  • Place on a plate and drizzle the spicy sauce over the Yu Choy!
    Yu Choy drizzled with spicy sauce on a colorful platter

Notes

You definitely don't want to overdo the blanching. Try to shoot for tender yet crunchy Yu Choy!
Be sure to allow as much water to drip off the vegetable when draining.  
If your stalks are very thick, you have the option to cut them off and begin blanching those first, followed by the tender leaves for the last 30 seconds of blanching.
 
Keyword Chinese vegetables, choy sum, yu choy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

How To Make Delicious Danish Red Cabbage!

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. Here you will learn how to make Delicious Danish Red Cabbage!

Danish red cabbage in a gold rimmed bowl
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You Will Want To Make This Jewel of a Dish!

Danish Red Cabbage is a jewel of a dish! This wonderful side dish is:

  • Absolutely an explosion of tangy and sweet flavors!
  • Beautiful to behold
  • A perfect way to enjoy red cabbage
  • Easy to make with just a few ingredients needed
  • Great as an accompaniment to your favorite roasts
  • Wonderful to add to roast pork or roast sandwiches

I promise you will love this delicious red cabbage, prepared the Danish way!

Danish red cabbage in a gold rimmed bowl

1,000 Foods To Eat Project

I am working my way through the foods that are listed in the book 1,000 Foods to Eat Before You Die by Mimi Sheraton. This is called my 1,000 Foods to Eat Project. This is how I was introduced to Danish Red Cabbage, also known as Rødkål. Rødkål is food #58 in my Project!

1,000 Foods to Eat Before You Die Front Jacket
1,000 Foods To Eat Before You Die by Mimi Sheraton

In this book, the author Mimi Sheraton lists her choice for the 1,000 Foods of the World that you MUST try. So if you haven't tried Rødkål, or Danish Red Cabbage before, please be sure to take the time to enjoy this MUST try food!

What Ingredients Will I Need To Make Danish Red Cabbage?

sliced red cabbage in a white bowl, red wine vinegar, brown sugar, an apple, stick of butter, goose fat, and red currant jam

You will only need 8 ingredients to make this braised red cabbage dish. The ingredients are:

  • Red cabbage
  • Red wine vinegar (can sub regular vinegar)
  • Water
  • Brown sugar
  • Salt
  • Butter
  • An apple
  • Red Currant Jam or Red Currant Jelly
  • Goose, duck, or bacon fat (optional ingredients but oh so good!)

The red currant jelly is included to give the cabbage a bit of a gloss. I found Red Currant Jam and decided to use that instead. The results were spectacular! Feel free to use either one.

Goose, duck, or bacon fat are optional ingredients. However if you have one of these on hand I highly recommend adding it! The fat helps to impart a richness to the dish and yes, it's a bit decadent!

Now allow me to show you the easy method to make this delicious red cabbage dish!

Instructions For This Braised Cabbage Dish

Honestly, it couldn't be easier to make this dish. The hardest thing is slicing the cabbage!

Begin by soaking sliced red cabbage in your red wine vinegar (or vinegar) in a large pan for around 15 minutes. It's my understanding that this will help the cabbage to keep its red color. We want do to everything we can to preserve the beautiful color of this dish.

Sliced red cabbage and red wine vinegar in a pot with blue tongs on the side

While the cabbage is soaking in the vinegar, dice the apple and sauté it for around 10 minutes in melted butter.

diced apple sautéing in a pan with butter

After soaking for 15 minutes, add the water, sugar, salt, sautéed apple, and animal fat (if using) to the red cabbage.

Sliced red cabbage, diced applies, and brown sugar in a pot

Bring this to the boil, and then simmer covered for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the lid and then add the red currant jam (or jelly), and then simmer for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is mostly dry. Taste and adjust for salt at this time.

sliced red cabbage and apples in a pot with red currant jam

Your jewel of a dish is now ready to serve!

How To Serve Danish Red Cabbage!

Danish red cabbage is perfect served alongside your favorite roast. In Denmark this is a staple at Christmas time served with Christmas goose, duck, or pork.

We enjoyed ours with some Scandinavian meatballs and mashed potatoes.

Danish red cabbage served with mashed potatoes and meatballs, with salad and fruit in the background

This side dish can be eaten hot or cold. It's also great to add to roast beef or roast pork sandwiches!

Be sure to try Rødkål, or Danish Red Cabbage, one of the 1,000 Foods To Eat Before You Die!

Some Other Foods You May Enjoy!

Enjoy A Rich and Delicious Roasted Goose!

Roasted Goose on a white serving tray with sage and onion stuffing and a poinsettia in the background
#56 Roasted Goose With Sage and Onion Stuffing

Icelandic Fish Stew!

Icelandic Fish Stew including cod, potatoes and chopped green onions in a gold rimmed bowl

If you'd like to come along on this food journey with me, please sign up to get the latest recipes and inspiration for you to expand your food comfort zone! It's an incredible journey, please join me by signing up here. 😊

Cheers!

Grace

Danish red cabbage in a white bowl with a gold rim

Delicious Danish Red Cabbage!

Grace
Danish Red Cabbage is a jewel of a dish! It's an explosion of tangy and sweet flavors and is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite roasts!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 1 hr
Cabbage Soaking Time 15 mins
Total Time 1 hr 25 mins
Course accompaniment, Side Dish
Cuisine Danish, European
Servings 6 people
Calories 83 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large covered pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb red cabbage sliced thinly
  • ¾ cup red wine vinegar can sub regular vinegar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ½ ts salt
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • 1 apple diced (do not have to peel)
  • ¼ cup red currant jam or jelly
  • 2 tablespoon goose, duck, or bacon fat purely optional but imparts a great richness to this dish!

Instructions
 

  • Begin by soaking sliced red cabbage in your red wine vinegar (or vinegar) in a large pan (that has a cover) for around 15 minutes. (You will use this pan to cook the cabbage.) It's my understanding that this will help the cabbage to keep its red color. We want do to everything we can to preserve the beautiful color of this dish.
    Sliced red cabbage and red wine vinegar in a pot with blue tongs on the side
  • While the cabbage is soaking in the vinegar, dice the apple and sauté it for around 10 minutes in melted butter (in a separate pan) on a medium heat.
    diced apple sautéing in a pan with butter
  • After soaking for 15 minutes, add the water, sugar, salt, sautéed apple, and animal fat (if using) to the red cabbage. Bring this to the boil, and then simmer covered for 45 minutes.
    Sliced red cabbage, diced applies, and brown sugar in a pot
  • After 45 minutes, remove the lid and then add the red currant jam (or jelly), and then simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is mostly dry. Taste and adjust for salt at this time.
    sliced red cabbage and apples in a pot with red currant jam
  • Your jewel of a dish is now ready to serve!
    Danish red cabbage served with mashed potatoes and meatballs, with salad and fruit in the background

Notes

You can use either red currant jam or jelly.
The animal fat is purely optional, but highly recommended!
Danish red cabbage is perfect served alongside your favorite roast. In Denmark this is a staple at Christmas time served with Christmas goose, duck, or pork.
This side dish can be eaten hot or cold. It's also great to add to roast beef or roast pork sandwiches!
 

Nutrition

Calories: 83kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 225mgPotassium: 247mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 868IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 51mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cabbage, red cabbage, side dish, vegetable side dish
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Glorious Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes

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This page may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. This post sings the praises of Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes!

Goose Fat Potatoes in a white serving dish
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Goose Fat Is Liquid Gold!

One of the absolute joys of roasting a goose is all of the glorious goose fat that you will get from the roasting!

Some would call the goose fat "liquid gold." I am one of those!

goose fat in a clear bowl
Goose fat does look like liquid gold!

Goose fat used in roasting potatoes is considered the "gold standard." If you have some goose fat, then trust me you will want to roast as many potatoes with it as you can!

Here I will detail how to make Goose Fat Roasted New Potatoes. It's super simple and oh so very rich and delicious! They will be slightly crispy and they will melt in your mouth as well!

What Ingredients Will I Need To Make These Perfectly Indulgent Potatoes?

You only need 4 ingredients (5 if you want to garnish with cheese) to make this delicious roasted new potato dish! They are:

Colorful new potatoes in a brown bowl
  • New potatoes (I like to use a colorful new potato medley)
  • Goose fat (from a roasted goose or you can also purchase it here from Amazon)
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Parmigiano Reggiano (grated for garnish, if desired)

It's time to preheat your oven to 425F and get roasting!

How To Roast The New Potatoes

We want to begin by getting the new potatoes to be around the same size as much as you can. If necessary, go ahead and cut some of the larger potatoes (if any) to get them the same size as the smaller potatoes.

Then place some goose fat in a baking dish and put it in your preheated oven. When the fat gets hot (you will hear it sizzle!) remove the dish, and place the new potatoes in the goose fat. Cover the new potatoes with the goose fat by tossing them around in the fat, and then season with some salt and pepper.

  • Melted goose fat on a sheet of aluminum foil
  • Colorful pieces of new potatoes in goose fat with salt and pepper sprinkled over them on a sheet of aluminum foil

Now roast the potatoes for around 30-40 minutes. Every 10-15 minutes toss them again so that the pieces are evenly cooked and browned.

Roasted new potatoes seasoned with salt and pepper on a sheet of aluminum foil

Your delicious new potatoes are now ready to enjoy!

What To Serve With Your Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes

Honestly these are so good that I like to eat them on their own as a snack!

They are also a superb accompaniment to your favorite roast!

goose fat roasted potatoes along with goose meat and sage and onion stuffing on a white plate with various desserts in the background such as chocolate pretzels, caramel corn, cookies, and pomegranate seeds
Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes With Roast Goose and Sage and Onion Stuffing

Increase The Deliciousness With Parmigiano Reggiano!

Grating some Parmigiano Reggiano over the top of these potatoes ups the deliciousness a notch! The salty and cheesy flavors of the Parmigiano Reggiano are just heavenly as a garnish.

Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes in a white dish with Parmigiano Reggiano grated over the top as a garnish

I very much hope that you will indulge in some Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes soon!

Some Other Recipes You May Enjoy!

Enjoy A Rich And Delicious Roasted Goose!

Roasted Goose on a white serving tray with sage and onion stuffing and a poinsettia in the background

How To Make Delicious Sage and Onion Stuffing!

sage and onion stuffing in a serving dish with Santa and Mrs. Klaus salt and pepper shakers in the background

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Cheers!

Grace

Goose Fat Potatoes in a white serving dish

Glorious Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes

Grace
New potatoes roasted in goose fat is just heavenly! Super easy to make and oh so indulgent!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 4 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Total Time 39 mins
Course accompaniment, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 3 people
Calories 270 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 baking dish large

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb new potatoes cut them if necessary so they are around the same size
  • 4 tablespoon goose fat
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • Parmigiano Reggiano grated (optional garnish it's oh so good!)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425F. Wash and cut some of the larger potatoes if necessary so that he pieces are around the same size.
    Colorful new potatoes in a brown bowl
  • Place the goose fat in a baking dish (lined with aluminum foil) and put it in your preheated oven. Leave it for just a few minutes until you hear it start to sizzle!
    Melted goose fat on a sheet of aluminum foil
  • Now remove the dish, and place the new potatoes in the goose fat. Cover the new potatoes with the goose fat by tossing them around in the fat, and then season with some salt and pepper.
    Colorful pieces of new potatoes in goose fat with salt and pepper sprinkled over them on a sheet of aluminum foil
  • Roast the potatoes for around 30-40 minutes. Every 10-15 minutes toss them again in the fat so that the pieces are evenly cooked and browned.
    Roasted new potatoes seasoned with salt and pepper on a sheet of aluminum foil
  • Your awesome potatoes are now ready to enjoy! Grate some wonderful Parmigiano Reggiano over the top to take these to the next level!
    Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes in a white dish with Parmigiano Reggiano grated over the top as a garnish

Notes

Enjoy these Goose Fat Roast Potatoes on their own as an indulgent snack, or make them to accompany your favorite roast! 

Nutrition

Calories: 270kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 3gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 17mgSodium: 9mgPotassium: 637mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 1mg
Keyword new potatoes, roast potatoes
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

The BEST Indian Spiced Roasted Cauliflower!

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This page may contain affiliate links. So, I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. Here is a post about how to make The BEST Indian Spiced Roasted Cauliflower!

Tender Cauliflower florets roasted with Indian spices garnished with cilantro and a small terracotta bowl with red chutney.

Roasted Indian Spiced Gobi!

Do you like Gobi? In Indian cooking, gobi means cauliflower. This roasted gobi will be a HUGE treat for you if you are a cauliflower lover!

Roasting a cauliflower helps to bring out its sweetness. Also, the cauliflower really takes on the flavor of the spices and really becomes a flavor bomb!

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