Fancy Snake Gourd Soup with Celery...

This is getting fun, here is the next step int he evolution, still simple to make, but it takes a little more time...

 The evolution was simple. In the first round, I added some more aroma courtesy of some panch puran and some Tijanjin vegetables, but then I wanted more substance.

1) roast 1 tbsp of panchpuran lightly, to release the flavor.

2) add a chopped onion and stir slowly 

3) gradually add a cup of veggie broth, or just water with liquid aminos, or Yondu, or some such.

4) if desired add some Tianjin veggies, and, if you like it hot, some chopped Thai chilis.

5) On medium heat cook till onions are caramelized

6) add 1 cup of split yellow peas (or lentils) and enough broth, so they can swim.

7) let it simmer for an hour or two, so the peas get soft.

8) Add in the coursely julienned snake gourd, and 3 or 4 sliced celery stalks. 

9) Let it simmer for another 20 mins or so.

10) turn off the heat and with a stick blender, make the soup smooth.

Finger-licking good, I assure you.

Simple Snake Gourd Soup with Celery

With apologies to Sharan, I cannot read a recipe and not mess with it. In this case, it was a bit embarrassing, for it spoils the simplicity of the recipe, but so be it. You have a choice as to how you make it.

So here goes my version:

1. lightly roast a tablespoon of Panchpuran in a stainless steel or titanium saucepan, or a wok.
2. Add a chopped onion, and 2-3 garlic cloves, and  pinch (1 tsp) of Tianjin vegetables.
3. Sautée with either a cup of veggie stock or water with one tsp Yondu, or Braggs Liquid Aminos
4. add in the diced snake gourd and thinly sliced celery.
5. Let it cook for a while, and then blend it with a stick blender, or use a food processor.
6. top it off with some pepper and maybe some parsley. 
7. Enjoy.

I still think my version does not really increase the time involved, You can have a delicious soup in 20-30 minutes counting everything from prep through serving.

Natto with GABA rice

 This week I have been making my favorite Natto breakfast with GABA brown rice, mixed 1/2 brown basmati and 1/2 black rice.

It is out of this world. 

Here are the ingredients on display:

It starts with mixing the natto with wasabi, mustard, and some Yondu.

And then you blend in the rice. Mix it all together really well.

At the end you can add some scallions and/or Chives.