Vegan Har Gow: Traditional Chinese Dumplings with Shiitake and Red Spinach

Don’t you love learning new words in a different language you do not speak? I am silly as I love to practice my pseudo make-believe accent and attempt to sound authentic. Then I laugh at myself and cook. Then eat. Dumplings are so flexible. Once you know the technique, you can fill them with whatever you like. Although these are traditionally made with shrimp, I am known for ignoring tradition. After all, I am a cultural mutt and think things get interesting by messing... Read More

Vegan Tempeh Lettuce Wraps

I have to acknowledge that indeed, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro has an acceptable selection of vegetarian and vegan menu items. Their tofu lettuce wraps have been a recent addition, but I believe mine are better, because most home cooking should be, and because I use tempeh and wild mushrooms. A perfect summer appetizer, light lunch, or meal, one can add a myriad of different accompaniments other than the lettuce cups to create exotic flavor combinations and textures. The... Read More