Sophie Nguyen Q: Your latest food discovery? A: A recent and very exciting food discovery of mine was learning how to use tofu as a replacement for eggs in breakfast dishes such as omelets and scrambled eggs. As odd as it sounds, tofu works wonderfully in place of eggs as it mimics their texture, and when prepared with the right ingredients and spices, the flavor can be quite similar to typical egg dishes. Q: What ingredients do you think are underused? A: I’ve been experimenting with lentils a lot recently, and I feel like they are underused! These tiny legumes are not nearly as bland and boring as they may seem. They are packed with protein, fiber and many beneficial nutrients, and are also quite versatile, being a key ingredient in many of my wraps, dips, soups and salads. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out new cooking methods or spice combinations!
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Vegan Nachos INGREDIENTS Nacho Cheese 1½ cups gold potatoes, peeled and cubed ¼ cup mild diced green chilies ¼ cup water 3 tbsp grapeseed oil, or any oil neutral in flavor 2 tbsp nutritional yeast 2 tsp lemon juice ½ tsp each: salt, paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper Beans and Veggies 2 tbsp grapeseed oil, or any oil neutral in flavor 3 cloves garlic, minced ½ medium red onion, julienned 1 red bell pepper, julienned ½ tsp each: salt, ground cumin, paprika 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained For Serving 3-5 cups corn tortilla chips Diced tomatoes Cilantro Avocado Lime juice Hot sauce Chili lime seasoning
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method Boil cubed potatoes in a covered pot of water on medium heat for 8-10 minutes, until fork tender. Be careful not to overcook. Rinse and drain in cold water. Combine potatoes with the remaining ingredients for the nacho cheese in a high-speed blender and mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside. Prepare beans and veggies. Heat oil in a large pan on medium/high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, minced garlic and spices. Cook ingredients on medium/high heat for about 5 minutes, until the onion and bell pepper are softened and slightly caramelized. Add black beans and cook another minute to heat. To serve, arrange chips on large serving platter. Top with nacho cheese and the rest of your toppings. Enjoy immediately!
“Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out new cooking methods or spice combinations! ”