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29
Aug, 2024
BBQ table serving

Elevate Your BBQ Game: Simple Tips to Take Your Party to the Next Level

Elevate Your BBQ Game

Simple Tips to Take Your Party to the Next Level

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Get ready to impress your guests with a BBQ that’s anything but ordinary. These simple yet effective tips will help you elevate your grilling game and make your party unforgettable.

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, a beloved staple of island cuisine, offers a delightful fusion of creamy textures and vibrant flavors. This iconic dish features al dente macaroni noodles tossed in a creamy dressing, often enhanced with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness.

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Indonesian Nut Chili Dip

Indonesian Nut Chili Dip

Experience the bold flavors of Indonesia with this nutty chili dip. Rich, spicy, and packed with a savory punch, it’s the perfect companion for your favorite snacks.

Mango Lassi

Indulge in the creamy delight of mango lassi, infused with a hint of aromatic cardamom. This refreshing blend is the perfect balance of sweet and spice, making it an irresistible treat!

Mango Lassi With Cardamom
Aussie Burger

Tasmanian Burger with a Lot

The Aussie Burger, affectionately known as the ‘Burger with the Lot,’ packs all that goodness into one epic bite. Think beetroot, juicy pineapple, and a sunny-side-up egg stacked high.

Belgian Endive Apple Salad

Enjoy this extraordinary endive apple salad as a light weekday lunch or elegant side for a Sunday dinner or backyard BBQ.

 
 
 
Belgian Endive Salad
Caribbean Coleslaw with corn

Caribbean Coleslaw

Coleslaw, a beloved cabbage salad, takes on many local variations across the globe. In the Caribbean, it’s the vibrant bell pepper and fragrant thyme that set this version apart.

Mediterranean Watermelon Feta Salad

Beat the heat with a refreshing and delightful Mediterranean watermelon feta salad! This colorful and mouthwatering summer dish combines the sweetness of juicy watermelon, the savory richness of feta cheese, and the freshness of mint leaves, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Optionally, add a twist of pink pepperberries.

Mediterranean Watermelon Feta Salad
22
Aug, 2024
Greek Moussaka

Greek Moussaka

Recipes

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Exploring the Rich History and Unique Appeal of Greek Moussaka

When it comes to iconic Mediterranean dishes, few can rival the rich, comforting layers of moussaka. This beloved Greek dish, with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, is more than just a hearty meal; it’s a culinary journey through history, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the cuisine of the region. Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind moussaka and discover what makes it so special.

A Journey Through Time: The Origins of Moussaka

Moussaka’s history is as layered as the dish itself. Its origins can be traced back to the Arab world, where the word “moussaka” is derived from the Arabic “musaqqa‘a,” meaning “chilled.” Early versions of moussaka were indeed served cold, a far cry from the warm, comforting casserole we know today.

The dish’s journey from the Middle East to Greece brought about significant changes. In the Arab world, moussaka-like dishes commonly featured eggplant and lamb, but without the béchamel sauce that defines the modern Greek version. As it made its way across borders, moussaka absorbed different culinary traditions, eventually arriving in Greece, where it was transformed into a dish that would become a national favorite.

Learn from a Michelin Chef the Art of Béchamel

Béchamel

The modern version of Greek moussaka owes much to the innovative Greek chef Nikólaos Tselementés. In the 1920s, Tselementes introduced a touch of French cuisine to the dish by adding béchamel sauce, a creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, to the top layer, giving moussaka its characteristic richness and smooth texture. This fusion of French and Middle Eastern influences marked a significant evolution in the dish’s history and helped cement its place in Greek culinary tradition.

But Tselementes’ impact on Greek cuisine extends far beyond moussaka. In 1910, he launched a cooking magazine that offered practical tips and introduced Greek households to international cuisines, forever changing the culinary landscape. His influence was so profound that “Tselementes” became synonymous with the word “cookbook” and is still used today as a playful compliment for anyone who excels in the kitchen. This enduring bit of culinary humor underscores the lasting legacy of a chef whose innovations have shaped Greek cooking for nearly a century.

What Makes Moussaka So Special?

Moussaka is a dish that stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its unique structure and flavor profile. It’s often compared to lasagna due to its layered composition, but moussaka has its own distinct character that sets it apart.

Layers of Flavor

At its core, moussaka is all about layers. The dish typically features sautéed eggplant as the base, followed by a savory mixture of ground meat—usually lamb or beef. Some versions also include other vegetables like potatoes or zucchini, adding even more depth to the dish. 

The crowning glory is the béchamel sauce, which bakes into a golden, creamy topping that contrasts beautifully with the savory layers beneath.

béchamel

A Fusion of Cultures

Moussaka is a culinary reflection of Greece’s rich history as a crossroads between East and West. The addition of béchamel sauce, a French creation, to a dish with Middle Eastern roots highlights this blend of cultural influences. It’s a dish that tells the story of Greece’s ability to adapt and incorporate different culinary traditions while creating something uniquely its own.

potato

Regional Variations

Moussaka’s versatility is another aspect of its appeal. While the Greek version is perhaps the most well-known, variations of moussaka can be found throughout the Balkans and the Middle East. In Turkey, for instance, moussaka is often prepared without béchamel and served as a stew rather than a layered casserole. In the Balkans, potatoes might replace eggplant as the primary ingredient, demonstrating the dish’s adaptability to local tastes and ingredients. Additionally, some versions, particularly in the Middle East, incorporate tomato sauce into the layers, adding a tangy richness that complements the savory meat and vegetables.

 

Seasonality

Traditionally, moussaka is enjoyed during the summer months when eggplants and tomatoes are at their peak. The dish celebrates the freshness of Mediterranean produce, making it a favorite for warm-weather dining.

tomato

Global Variations from our Blog

Italian Lasagne in Padella
Italian Lasagne in Padella
South African Bobotie
South African Bobotie Recipe

A Timeless Classic

Moussaka is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition that has stood the test of time. Its rich layers and bold flavors have made it a beloved comfort food in Greece and beyond. Whether you’re enjoying it in a traditional Greek taverna or making it at home, moussaka offers a taste of history and a reminder of the ways in which food can bring together different cultures and flavors into a single, delicious experience.

 

So the next time you savor a bite of moussaka, take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of history and tradition that makes this dish truly special. It’s a culinary journey worth taking, one flavorful layer at a time.

Moussaka Variations from our Blog

Greek Moussaka
Greek Moussaka Recipe
Moussaka a la Kleftiko
Greek Moussaka a la Kleftiko Recipe
Greek Moussaka

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25
Jun, 2024
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Plate

Hawaiian
Huli Huli Chicken

Arrange the Huli Huli chicken on a platter with a bed of rice or grilled vegetables with a side of grilled pineapple slices. Sprinkle with green onions.

Optionally, serve with additional Hawaiian sides (see recipe notes).

Staple Ingredients

These required ingredients are staples that you can find on our list of cherry-picked cooking staples.
soy sauce
soy sauce or alternative
honey
sweetener
chilies chopped
optional chilies

Fresh Ingredient Options

Don't like any of those fresh ingredients? No problem. Skip them and choose your favorite sides instead.
pineapple
green onions
summer squash grilled
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

SpiceBreeze
Indulge in the tropical flavors of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, a dish renowned for its irresistible combination of sweet and savory marinade, perfectly charred on the grill. "Huli Huli" translates to "turn turn" in Hawaiian, referring to the method of continuously rotating the chicken while grilling to achieve even cooking and caramelization. This Hawaiian favorite captivates with its tender, juicy chicken, delivering a taste of paradise in every bite. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or at a festive luau, Huli Huli Chicken promises a culinary journey to the shores of Hawaii.
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaii
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless [1]

Marinade

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce [2]
  • 1-2 tbsp brown sugar or honey [3]
  • chilies to taste powder or finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp oil [4]

Huli Huli Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Huli Huli spices Garlic, ginger, smoked paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, black pepper, tangerine peel, white sesame seeds, mild chili

Suggested Sides

  • Grilled pineapple slices.
  • Grilled vegetables, such as corn on the cob, zucchini, or summer squash.
  • Other Hawaiian sides [5]

Instructions
 

Marinate

  • In a CONTAINER, combine all the ingredients for the marinade.
  • Adjust the sweetness to taste.
  • Add the chicken pieces and thoroughly mix to ensure they are well-coated.
  • Cover the container and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld. Turn the chicken occasionally.

Grill [6]

  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting.
  • Rub the marinated chicken evenly with the Huli Huli spice blend.
  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  • Grill the chicken, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade, until fully cooked and nicely charred.

Serve

  • Arrange the Huli Huli chicken on a platter with a bed of rice or grilled vegetables with a side of grilled pineapple slices. Sprinkle with green onions.
  • Optionally, serve with additional Hawaiian sides.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

[1] Use chicken thighs with or without skin. Alternatively, you can use chicken breasts.
[2] See our blog for soy sauce alternatives.
[3] Start with 1 tbsp and adjust to taste.
[4] Neutral or sesame oil.
[5] See our online recipes:
[6] Alternatively, you can pan-fry the chicken in a little oil.
2
Jun, 2024
Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

Norwegian Lakserull with Beetroot

SpiceBreeze
Lakserull is a Norwegian dish consisting of rolled-up smoked salmon and dill paste in a thin potato flatbread. We've created two delicious variations of this traditional recipe. The first version is a quick and easy option, using any thin flatbread you have on hand. The second version is a bit more time-intensive but transforms the dish into a hearty dinner by substituting the flatbread with potato fritters. Our signature spice blend enhances the dill flavor with fennel and adds a burst of color and taste with beetroot powder.
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Norwegian
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

  • 9 oz smoked salmon [1]
  • 1.5 lb gold potatoes [2] peeled & grated
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced [3]
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt [4]

Alternative Side

  • any thin flatbread, for instance, tortilla

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Beetroot powder, dill weed, fennel

Instructions
 

Prepare Beetroot Yogurt

  • Mix the yogurt with the spices.

Option 1 - Potato Fritters

  • In a large BOWL, combine the grated potatoes with eggs, flour, and salt to taste. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  • In a PAN, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
  • Pour a ladleful of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten it into a fritter about the size of your hand. Depending on the size of your pan, you should be able to fit two or three fritters at a time.
  • Fry the fritters until they are golden brown on both sides, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
  • Remove the fritters from the pan and drain on paper towels if necessary.
  • Serve them topped with the salmon, sprinkled with green onions, and the spiced yogurt.

Alternative Quick Option 2 - Flatbread Rolls

  • Spread a thin, even layer of yogurt on the flatbread.
  • Add the salmon and sprinkle the onions on top.
  • Roll the flatbread tightly and cut it into 3 to 4 cm pieces.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

[1] Variation: Substitute salmon with poultry cold cut.
[2] Optionally, substitute part of it with root veggies or zucchini.
[3] Substitute with 1 oz arugula or finely chopped red onions.
[4] Substitute with cream cheese or goat cream cheese or sour cream.
Tip: Add whipped cream to the cream cheese for a lighter consistency.
 
2
May, 2024
Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

How to cook 34 authentic global recipes without tedious planning.

Aromatic Spiced Red Wine Chicken

All you need for this recipe are chicken, red wine, and fish sauce. If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with anchovy paste, soy sauce, tamari, or liquid aminos. Our spice blend with lovage and asafoetida adds a unique and special flavor to the dish.
red wine

Here’s a quick overview of the cooking steps:

  1. Mix the sauce

  2. Roast chicken in sauce

  3. Optionally, thicken sauce

fish sauce
lovage
Lovage is an herb with a flavor reminiscent of celery and parsley, commonly used in soups, stews, and salads for its aromatic and slightly sweet taste.
asafoetida
Asafoetida is a pungent spice known for its strong, sulfurous aroma that mellows into a leek-like flavor when cooked. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine.
Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

Ancient Roman Pullum Parthicum

SpiceBreeze
Transport yourself back in time to the ancient streets of Rome, where culinary mastery was revered as much as military prowess. Pullum Parthicum is named after the ancient Parthian Empire that bordered Rome, embodies the fusion of flavors and techniques from across the ancient world, with its roots in both Roman and Middle Eastern cuisines. Join us on a culinary journey through time, exploring the origins and ingredients of this ancient dish that continues to captivate palates to this day.
Our spice blend with lovage and asafoetida adds a unique and special flavor to the dish.
Get your spice blend here. Limited time only!
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Ancient Rome
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs, with skin and bones [1]

Staples

  • 3/4 cup red wine
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce [2]
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • 1 tbsp flour or starch (optional)

Culinary Spice Blend

  • 1 pouch Pullum Parthicum spices Black pepper, garlic, caraway, lovage, asafoetida, celery

Suggested Sides

  • fresh bread
  • boiled potatoes
  • boiled vegetables e.g. cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, cabbage, or kale

Instructions
 

Prepare

  • Season the chicken with salt [3] to taste.
  • Sauce: In a small BOWL, mix wine, fish sauce, 2 tbsp oil, and Pullum Parthicum spices.

Roast

  • Preheat the OVEN to 440°F.
  • Place the chicken skin side up into a BAKING PAN and pour the sauce over it.
  • Roast the chicken for about 30 minutes until it is tender.

Sauce (Optionally)

  • Slurry: In a CUP, stir 1 tbsp flour into 2 tbsp cold water until dissolved.
  • In a small POT, add leftover sauce. Stir the slurry into it. Bring to a boil.
  • Cook over medium heat until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently.

Serve

  • Serve the juicy chicken with your preferred sides.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

[1]  Alternative: 1.5 lbs chicken breast with skin. 
If using chicken without skin, cover the chicken with aluminum foil.
[2]  Substitute: anchovy paste or soy sauce. More substitutes in our blog.
[3]  Recommended: 1 tsp

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2
Apr, 2024
South African Bunny Chow

South African Bunny Chow

How to cook 34 authentic global recipes without tedious planning.

South African Bunny Chow

The dish “bunny chow” originated in South Africa, specifically in the Indian community of Durban. It is believed to have been created by Indian immigrants in the 1940s. The name “bunny chow” is said to have originated from the Indian word “bania,” which referred to Indian traders, combined with the South African slang term “chow,” meaning food. Initially, the dish was served in hollowed-out loaves of bread, which were referred to as “bunnies.” Over time, it became known as “bunny chow.” Today, bunny chow typically consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, often chicken or mutton, and is a popular street food in South Africa.

Chery-Picked Cooking Staples

broth in cup
broth
avocado oil
neutral oil
salt
salt
onion chopped and whole
onion chopped

Bunny Chow Ingredients

Protein Options
  • chicken thighs
  • lamb or beef stew
  • garbanzo beans
tomato
tomato
potato
potato
bread loaf
bread loaf
South African Bunny Chow

South African Bunny Chow

SpiceBreeze
Bunny Chow is a tantalizing South African creation that blends vibrant spices, tender meats, or flavorful veggies, all nestled within a hollowed-out loaf of bread. Its origins steeped in cultural fusion and a story that's as rich as its taste. Join us as we delve into the savory world of Bunny Chow, where every bite tells a tale of tradition, innovation, and culinary adventure.
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hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine South African
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

Protein Options - Pick One

  • 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks [1]
  • 1 lb lamb or beet stew [1] [2]
  • 1 can garbanzo beans [1] rinsed

Fresh Produce

  • 1 tomato, finely chopped [3]
  • 1 large potato [4]
  • 2 green chilies optional
  • 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro optional

Carbs

  • 1 white bread loaf, cut in half

Staples Group 1: Liquid, Dairy, Fat

  • 1 cup broth
  • 2 tbsp oil

Staples Group 2: Salty, Sour, Sweet

  • salt to taste

Staples Group 3: Breading, Onion & Co

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Bunny Chow spice blend Coriander, turmeric, amchoor, onion, lemon verbena, chili, cumin, garlic, fenugreek, curry leaves, cilantro leaves, ginger, yellow and brown mustard, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper

Suggested Sides

  • simple fresh salad of your choice
  • cooked green peas

Instructions
 

Prepare the Potato

  • Quarter the potato, grate one quarter, and cut the remaining three quarters into 1-inch cubes.

Prepare the Stew

  • In a POT, heat 2 tbsp oil over high heat.
  • Add the chicken and fry it until all sides turn brown. Season with salt to taste.
  • Take the chicken out.
  • Reduce the heat to medium.
  • Add the onions and cook them until translucent.
  • Add the Bunny Chow spices and optional green chilies. Stir for 1 minute.
  • Incorporate chopped tomatoes and fry for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Return the chicken. Mix well. Fry for an additional 3 minutes
  • Pour in the broth and all potatoes, ensuring they are well mixed. Season with salt to taste.
  • Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes.

Prepare the Bread

  • Cut a square-shaped hole into the bread loaf, then hollow it out.

Finish & Serve

  • Arrange the bread on plates and place hollowed-out bread pieces next to it.
  • Fill the hole of the bread loaf with the stew. Optionally, garnish with cilantro.
  • Serve with a side salad of your choice and optional cooked green peas.

Notes

[1] Optionally, substitute half of the meat or beans with bite-size vegetables, such as eggplant, green beans, cauliflower, green cabbage, or root veggies.
[2] For lamb or beef stew, add 1 hour of cooking time. Add the cubed potatoes for the last 30 minutes.
[3] Substitute with 1 tbsp tomato paste and 4 tbsp water.
[4] Recommended if available: Yukon or Idaho gold potato.

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