HOME MADE recipe for momos:

Ingredients:

• For the dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• Water, as needed
• For the filling:
• 1 lb ground meat (chicken, pork, or beef)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Inter a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and water to make a smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix together the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, chopped cabbage, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. After the dough has rested, divide it into small balls and roll each ball into a thin, circular wrapper.
4. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each wrapper.
5. To shape the momos, fold the wrapper over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then pinch and pleat the edges to seal.
6. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Steam the momos in a steamer basket for about 10-12 minutes, or until the wrappers are cooked through and the filling is hot.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce mixed with vinegar or chili sauce.

Enjoy your delicious homemade momos!

Vegan Chinese Five-Spice Baked Tofu

 Vegan Chinese Five-Spice Baked Tofu:

• If you haven’t tried Chinese five spice, this baked tofu is a great introduction. The spice blend combines fennel, star anise, cinnamon, pepper, and cloves for a unique flavour.

Ingredients:

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce                                                               
  
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Tofu:

   • Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess water. You can use a tofu press or wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place a heavy object (like a cast iron skillet) on top for about 20 minutes.
   • Cut the tofu into cubes or slices, depending on your preference.

3. Make the Marinade:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup (or agave nectar), Chinese five-spice powder, sesame oil, and minced garlic.

4. Marinate the Tofu:

   • Place the tofu cubes in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag.
   • Pour the marinade over the tofu, making sure each piece is well-coated.
   • Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (longer if possible) to allow the flavours to penetrate the tofu.

5. Bake the Tofu:

   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
   • Arrange the marinated tofu pieces on the baking sheet in a single layer.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy.

6. Serve:

   • Remove the tofu from the oven and let it cool slightly.
   • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
   • Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or add it to stir-fries, salads, or grain bowls.

7. Enjoy!

   • The Chinese five-spice blend adds warmth and depth to the tofu, making it a flavourful and protein-packed dish.