Chef Mikoto's 3 Quick Hearty Meals

3 Quick Hearty Meals

Konnichiwa! To all the readers, food lovers and aspiring chefs. Today Chef Miko is going to share with you 3 quick hearty meal recipes that are guaranteed to fill your bellies and make your mouth explode with flavour.

I am sure you are getting excited. So, tie your aprons and let's get cooking.

1) Mushroom Toast

Introduction:
Mushroom toast is a fantastic way to start your day with a burst of flavour and a healthy dose of nutrients. Mushrooms add a unique earthy taste and a satisfying texture to any dish. Contrary to popular belief, mushrooms are not junk food but a nutritious ingredient that offers numerous health benefits. In this recipe, we'll guide you through the simple steps to create a delicious mushroom toast that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

• Whole Grain Bread           2 Slices
• Sliced Fresh Mushrooms     125 g
• Garlic Clove                    1
• Olive Oil                        1 Tbsp
• Salt &  Pepper               To Taste
• Fresh Parsley                To Garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until they become tender and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
4. While the mushrooms are cooking, toast the slices of whole-grain bread until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Once the mushrooms are cooked, remove them from the heat and set aside.
6. Take each slice of toasted bread and evenly distribute the sautéed mushrooms on top.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and flavour.

Q & A
Now let's answer the questions you might have:

1) What does Mushroom do to a dish?
Mushrooms have a distinct earthy flavour and a meaty texture that adds depth and complexity to a dish. They enhance the overall taste profile and can impart a unique umami flavour. Mushrooms also contribute to the texture of a dish, providing a satisfying chewiness. Additionally, mushrooms are versatile and can complement a wide range of flavours and ingredients.

2) Is Mushroom Junk Food?
No, mushrooms are not considered junk food. In fact, they are a healthy and nutritious ingredient. Mushrooms are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. They are a good source of various nutrients like vitamins (such as vitamin D, vitamin B2, and folate), minerals (such as selenium, potassium, and copper), and dietary fiber. Mushrooms also contain antioxidants and have been associated with potential health benefits, including immune system support and anti-inflammatory properties.

By incorporating mushrooms into your diet, you can enjoy their delicious taste while reaping the nutritional benefits they offer.

___

2) Quick and Flavorful Vegetarian Tacos Recipe

Introduction
These Quick Vegetarian Tacos are a delicious and satisfying option for a meatless meal. Packed with flavorful vegetables and spices, this recipe offers a simple and tasty solution for those seeking a fast and nutritious taco experience. Enjoy the flexibility to personalize your toppings and feel free to get creative. Savor these delicious and easy-to-make vegetarian tacos packed with flavor. This recipe guarantees a quick and satisfying meal that will please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

• Olive Oil                        1 Tbsp
• Onion                           1
• Garlic Cloves                   2
• Red Bell Pepper              1
• Zucchini                       1 small
• Cooked  Black Beans        1 cup
• Corn Kernels                   1 cup
• Ground Cumin                  1 Tsp
• Chili Powder                    1 Tsp
• Smoked Paprika               1/2 Tsp
• Salt & pepper                  To Taste
• Flour Tortillas                   8
• Toppings                        Optional

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the vegetables and spices. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the beans and corn through.
5. Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the vegetable filling onto each tortilla. Add desired toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Tips:

• Customize your tacos by adding your favorite ingredients such as grated cheese, pickled jalapeños, or hot sauce.
• For added protein, you can include a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh, crumbled and cooked with vegetables.
• Make it gluten-free by using corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.

___

3) Asian Inspired Stir-Fry

Introduction
If you are looking for an easy and quick-to-make Stir-Fry Asian style, then look no further and try this flavourful recipe guaranteed to become your new favourite.

Ingredients

• Boneless Chicken Breast/Tofu     450 g
• Vegetable Oil                          2 Tbsp
• Hoisin Sauce                         2 Tbsp
• Cornstarch                            1 Tbsp
• Onion                                  1
• Garlic Cloves                          2
• Bell Pepper                           1
• Julienned Carrot                      1
• Beans                                1 cup
• Coriander                            1 cup

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the Hoisin sauce and cornstarch. Add the chicken/tofu slices to the bowl and toss until they are coated with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken/tofu and cook until it's browned and cooked through approximately 5-6 minutes. Remove it from the skillet/wok and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet/wok, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly softened.
4. Add the bell pepper, carrot, & cooked beans to the skillet/wok. Stir-fry for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. Remove the stir-fry from heat and garnish with coriander, sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.

Enjoy it All!

Are you ready to try them?