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Inspiration of Urbnspice Series

The Amazing Pomelo – A How To Tutorial

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of Urbnspice Series

I live in the Okanagan Valley in beautiful British Columbia.   Now that the colder weather has arrived, I truly miss the abundance of seasonal fresh fruit.  There are a number of alternatives now available in the grocery stores that are unique and delicious.  One of the seasonal fruits that are currently available at this time of year are pomelos, which are similar in appearance to a grapefruit but larger.  A Pomelo is an interesting citrus fruit native to South and South Eastern Asia. What is noteworthy about pomelo – the largest cultivated citrus fruit, is that it is an original citrus species from which a number of cultivated citrus fruits were hybridized from.

Pomelo is often described as a mild tasting grapefruit. In this post, I will address some of the unique characteristics of pomelo. I will teach you how to prepare and use a Pomelo. I will discuss not only the fruit of the pomelo but also the peel and the pith –  all of these pomelo parts have their usefulness.

How to Prepare and Use a Pomelo | urbnspice.com

How to Buy a Pomelo:

When purchasing pomelo, look for a fruit that feels quite heavy for its size, and is unblemished with no soft spots. It should be kept refrigerated and used within a week. The pomelo that I purchased was a sweet seed-free pomelo, however, there are varieties that are very tart.  Eating the sweet pomelo fruit is a refreshing treat as it does not have the bitterness of a grapefruit and has a slight sweetness.  The thin peel of the pomelo is very fragrant and useful in candied peel, mild marmalade and confectionery.  The fruit of a pomelo is in its core, surrounded by a thick layer of spongy pith. Unfortunately, the pith is often discarded.  In this post, I will outline a very interesting option regarding how to effectively use the pomelo pith.How to Prepare and Use a Pomelo | urbnspice.com

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Filed Under: Dessert Garnish, Fruit, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, My Recipes Tagged With: Citrus Fruit, Fruit, How To, inspiration of the day, Tips and Techniques

Chicken, Millet and Spinach Appetizers

By Denise Pare-Watson

We all have a repertoire of appetizers that we make year after year. These recipes are family favourites that we look forward to making and sharing. Sometimes, it is nice to change things up a bit. This recipe for Chicken, Millet and Spinach Appetizers was developed because I was looking for a way to incorporate lean ground chicken into a lighter first course or appetizer. The final result was this recipe for Chicken, Millet and Spinach Appetizers – a delicious, attractive and lean recipe.Chicken, Millet and Spinach Appetizers | urbnspice.com

Millet was chosen as an ingredient in this recipe for several reasons – it binds well with the delicate texture of the ground chicken and it is also gluten-free and inexpensive. Millet is an ancient seed that one-third of the world uses in their diet because it is rich in iron, B vitamins and calcium.  The chlorophyll from the spinach and parsley tints the ground chicken mixture to a unique green colour. This makes the appetizers a colourful addition to the holiday season due to their garden-fresh appearance. I encourage you to try this delicious appetizer – not only for the holidays but all year around.

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Filed Under: Appetizers and Small Plates, Dietary Restrictions, Gluten Free Recipes, Grain Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, My Recipes, Poultry Dishes, Preservative Free Tagged With: Appetizers, Dietary Restrictions, Gluten Free, Grain Free, Holiday Appetizers, Holiday Recipes, Light Recipes, Small Plates

Mini Sized Smashed Potato Pizzas

By Denise Pare-Watson

 

This recipe for Mini Sized Smashed Potato Pizzas is Grey Cup Party food at its best!  It is quick and easy to put together, but more importantly, delicious!  They are little pizzas made in a handheld form. Make lots – your guests will be clamouring for more.

Mini Sized Smashed Potato Pizzas | urbnspice.com

Make lots! They will disappear very quickly!

I was involved in a food challenge a few years ago that wanted us to develop original recipes for the Little Potato Company. On my blog, you will find the results of my creativity including a family-sized version of Smashed Potato Pizza, as well as Sausage and Potato Stuffing, Bacon Cheese Potato Cups and Potato Crusted Quiche (all gluten-free recipes).  I have re-invented the Smashed Potato Pizza and made it into small appetizer sized pizzas.  These Mini Sized Smashed Potato Pizzas have the crispy edges that are so appealing and flavourful.  Toppings are kept simple given the well-seasoned smashed potato base; sliced grape tomatoes, chiffonade of basil, sliced green onion, mozzarella and bocconcini cheese, and crispy bacon bits.   Don’t forget to serve the Mini Sized Smashed Potato Pizzas with Dressed Up Sour Cream….

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Original content here is published under these license terms: X 
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Filed Under: Appetizers and Small Plates, Casual Dining, Gluten Free Recipes, Grain Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, My Recipes, Potatoes and Rice, Preservative Free, Quick and Easy Dishes Tagged With: Appetizers, Gluten Free Recipes, Grey Cup, Potatoes, Small Plates

Pickle Pie, Please!

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of Urb’n’Spice Series

What can I do when my adorable three-year-old grandson asks me to make him a Pickle Pie? His Momma was not sure where he came up with the idea for Pickle Pie. Apparently, he babbled about pickle pie for a whole day before she sent me this endearing video. To be honest, as a chef, I was very intrigued and as a grandmother, I would do anything for the little guy. I am always up for a challenge, so I set to work on figuring out how to fulfill his plea for pickle pie.

Presenting: The Pickle Pie Video Request

When I started my pickle pie quest, I wanted to develop a recipe with little children in mind. No fancy ingredients, just good tasting food that would appeal to all ages. Potato, cheese, pickles and pastry evolved into the key ingredients and when combined together, an irresistible flavourful potato filling was the end result. The flaky pastry just added to its overall appeal.

Pickle Pie | urbnspice.com

I made two versions of this recipe – one was miniature pies and the second version was small turnovers that are the perfect size for a little guy to hold. Look under the “What Else Can I Do With This Recipe?” section to see the variation – miniature Pickle Pie turnovers.

I had fun with this unique request and I am delighted with the results. My taste-testers (my other daughter and her little ones) gave me a thumbs-up and an “Omgawd – we all adored the pickle pies!”  If you try making these pickle pies – tell me what you think. I enjoy hearing from all my readers….

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Filed Under: Appetizers and Small Plates, Dietary Restrictions, Experiments, Gluten Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, My Recipes, Pastry, Potatoes and Rice, School Lunch or After School Snacks Tagged With: Appetizers, Fun Food for Kids, Gluten Free Recipes, Pickles, Pies and Tarts, Potatoes, Small Plates

Spicy Sausage and Cabbage Fry with Greek Yogurt Sauce

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of Urb’n’Spice Series

Sometimes inspiration can be derived from necessity. Have you ever gone to the grocery store to purchase a specific ingredient or item and it ends up to be something entirely different than what you expected? This recipe was developed due to a case of mislabelling. I actually needed to buy mild Italian sausage, however, the package was mislabelled and I bought a spicy version instead. Not wanting to waste food, my original meal plan was altered to accommodate this Spicy Sausage and I created the following Spicy Sausage and Cabbage Fry with Greek Yogurt Sauce.

The ingredients for this dish have originated from all over the world: Hot Italian sausage; Chinese Napa cabbage; Canadian mushrooms; Greek yogurt sauce and Asian inspired seasonings. It all comes together into a balanced fusion dish. I encourage you to try it as it is a delicious, quick and nutritious meal.

Spicy Sausage and Cabbage Fry | urbnspice.com

Spicy Sausage and Cabbage Fry served in a flour tortilla

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Digiprove sealCopyright secured by Digiprove © 2018 Urb'n'SpiceAll Rights Reserved
Original content here is published under these license terms: X 
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License Abstract:You may read the original content in the context in which it is published (at this web address). You may make other uses of the content only with the written permission of the author on payment of a fee.

Filed Under: Appetizers and Small Plates, Blenditarian Challenge, Blenditarian Recipes, Brunch Dishes, Casual Dining, Condiments & Accompaniments, Dairy Free Recipes, Egg Free Recipes, Gluten Free Recipes, Grain Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, Main Dishes or Entree Options, Meat Dishes, Refined Sugar Free Recipes Tagged With: Blend and Extend, Blenditarian Recipes, Mushrooms, Quick and Easy, Sausage

Fresh Peaches and Cream Corn and Chicken Chowder

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of Urbnspice Series

Chowder is a rich and hearty style of soup that is typically made using fish and seafood, smoked bacon, potatoes, vegetables and corn niblets. In this recipe for Fresh Peaches and Cream Corn and Chicken Chowder, I have substituted poultry for the fish and seafood to create a delicious soup that I know you will find flavourful and satisfying.  Skip to Recipe

Fresh Peaches and Cream Corn and Chicken Chowder | urbnspice.com

Fresh Peaches and Cream Corn and Chicken Chowder is a satisfying bowlful of comfort food.

My inspiration for this post is seasonal fresh Peaches and Cream corn, a tender, sweet and creamy tasting variety that is an excellent choice for this chowder recipe.  The corn niblets take this chowder to another level, but why stop there?  I also included the bare cobs in the ingredient list, which are used for a flavour enhancing technique. Serve this chowder with Potato Scones, hot biscuits, buns, or thick slices of fresh bread and butter for a meal that is fit for a king….

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Filed Under: Cooking Techniques, Gluten Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, My Recipes, Soups and Chowders Tagged With: Chicken, Cooking Techniques, Corn, Gluten Free Recipes, Soups and Chowders

Homemade Grape Tomato Ketchup

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of Urb’n’Spice Series

One of my most vivid childhood food memories is the aroma in my house when my Mom made ketchup from the bumper crop of tomatoes we always grew in our large backyard garden. The indescribable scent both piquant and zesty wafted throughout the house drawing everyone into the kitchen to peek into the bubbling pot. While I no longer have the large garden of my childhood, I am lucky enough to live in a wonderful part of Canada where fresh produce is easily accessible. The recipe I have provided below for Homemade Grape Tomato Ketchup is easy to make and a great project for you to try when tomatoes are plentiful.   Once you have tasted your own homemade ketchup, you may never go back to store-bought again. I have used grape tomatoes in this recipe – their sweetness and flavour lend themselves well to making this popular condiment.   Any tomato variety can be used for this recipe (see the proportions below), and even a mixture of fresh and canned tomatoes work well. Give it a try! It is well worth the effort.  Skip to Recipe

Homemade Grape Tomato Ketchup | urbnspice.com

Homemade Grape Tomato Ketchup

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Filed Under: Condiments & Accompaniments, Dairy Free Recipes, Egg Free Recipes, Food Fun, Gluten Free Recipes, Grain Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, My Recipes, Preservative Free, Refined Sugar Free Recipes, Sauces, Savory Tagged With: Condiments, Dairy Free, Gluten Free Recipes, Homemade, Ketchup, Preservative Free, Refined Sugar Free, Tomatoes

Duck Fat Potatoes with Smoked Sea Salt

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of Urb’n’Spice Series

If you want to make something truly delicious to serve as a small plate offering or on a casual family platter, try these Duck Fat Potatoes with Smoked Sea Salt. It is one of those foods that you will say, ‘this is the best thing that I ever had!’ Easy to make, easier to eat! Make more than you think you might need – they will be gone in a flash!

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Duck Fat Roasted Potatoes | urbnspice.com…

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Digiprove sealCopyright secured by Digiprove © 2018 Urb'n'SpiceAll Rights Reserved
Original content here is published under these license terms: X 
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Filed Under: Appetizers and Small Plates, Casual Dining, Condiments & Accompaniments, Cooking Techniques, Gluten Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, My Recipes, Potatoes and Rice, Preservative Free Tagged With: Appetizers, Duck Fat, Potatoes, Small Plates

Pan Roasted Duck Breasts with Orange Vanilla Glaze

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of Urb’n’Spice Series

The concept for this recipe originated from a preserve that I have been making for many years.   Orange Vanilla Bean Confiture (a cross between a jam and marmalade) was developed at my work because we needed garnishes for a new menu item. The confiture was to accompany a caramelized rice crispy garnish, which was a topping on a classic baked rice pudding. The dessert was very delicious and extremely popular. The confiture became a favourite amongst the other chefs in the kitchen and made its way into a number of other dishes. One of my favourite ways that they used my preserve was on a glazed Duck Breast. The duck breast was served beautifully displayed with seasonal vegetables and puree of celeriac or other similar items. My approach for this Pan Roasted Duck Breasts with Orange Vanilla Glaze is more casual and the dish is served family style on a board or large platter. It is an easy-to-make dish that can be prepared in just a few minutes. In this post, you will learn how to cook a duck breast to perfection, and additionally, I will guide you through how to make the Orange Vanilla Glaze.

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Pan Roasted Duck Breasts with Orange Vanilla Glaze | urbnspice.com

“To begin cooking duck at one in the morning
is one of the finest acts of madness that can be undertaken by a human being who is not mad.”

― Manuel Vázquez Montalbán, La Soledad Del Manager

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Filed Under: Casual Dining, Gluten Free Recipes, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, Main Dishes or Entree Options, My Recipes, Poultry Dishes Tagged With: Casual Dining, Duck, Family Recipes, Fast and Easy Dishes, Gluten Free Recipes, Poultry Dishes

Caramelized Mushroom Tart

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Inspiration of UrbnSpice Series

I enjoy appetizers and small plates (what we like to call ‘tasties’) casual type of dining.  Using puff pastry is a quick and easy way to make this Caramelized Mushroom Tart appetizer. One of my favourite variety of mushrooms is crimini mushrooms.  Their dense, dry texture make them the perfect mushroom for caramelizing. What better way to celebrate Canada 150 than making this delicious tart with Canadian grown mushrooms.

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Caramelized Mushroom Tart ready to bake | urbnspice.com

Caramelized Mushroom Tart ready to bake | urbnspice.com

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Filed Under: Casual Dining, Inspiration of Urbnspice Series, Quick and Easy Dishes, Vegetarian Dishes Tagged With: Appetizers, Canada Day, Casual Dining, Crimini Mushrooms, Mushrooms, Small Plates

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Meet Denise – The Urbnspice Chef

Welcome to Urbnspice - A Taste of Heart and Home. Inspiration in my kitchen is often a trip to the market or an experimental coincidence! Come and join me on this culinary journey where I share my passion for the creative, technical and teaching components of the profession and unravel culinary quandaries for you with fun and easy to follow user-friendly recipes, tips & techniques.
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