If you’ve followed this blog from the beginning, you know that my family’s cooking traditions have been present here – perhaps not as often as culinary adventures away from home, but no diplomat would be worth her salt without faithfully representing home. The Culinary Diplomat owes its appreciation for food — and food adventures — …
Category: Entrees (Mains)
The Culinary Diplomat Does Quarantine Cuisine
Hi everyone! Yes, the CD is still here and I finally have some time on my hands and extra creative energy to post – maybe many of you all do, too. I found myself so busy over the past three years that my creative energy was tapped out for a long time – even when…
Healthy Diplomat: Vegetarian Quinoto-stuffed peppers
Tired of boring old quinoa? Need new ideas for healthy entrees – vegetarian or not, or just an impressive side dish for guests? Try this Peruvian inspired delicious bell pepper stuffed with a goat cheese quinoa risotto, also known as quinoto. It is rich, yet light – typically under 300 calories per serving and a…
The Healthy Diplomat’s Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers
The all-American hamburger gets the CD international treatment with infusion of flavors that span the northern and eastern Mediterranean. An oh so easy classic you might just turn into a weeknight menu staple! America has a love affair with the poorly named hamburger. Though the name refers to its attributed origin – immigrants to…
Unorthodox Moroccan spiced Sweet Potato Chicken Chili
Slow-cooked chicken, bright sweet potatoes, and jalapeños get a kiss of Near East spices. Moroccan tagine meets American chili. Whether you are thawing out from a snow-in, rain-in, or simply are looking for a great winter (or Super Bowl) recipe, this unorthodox chili is a great alternative to a standard chili con carne or white…
Honoring France with Boeuf Bourguignon
This post is a dedication to the people of France, Lebanon, and Iraq in the wake of the tragic attacks of November 13, 2015. Lest Beirut and Baghdad’s losses be dwarfed, the CD will post future Lebanese and Iraqi recipes; stay tuned! May we all stand firm against hate and fear. May we all show…
Italian-Californian fusion: A hearty sauce Romanesca over roasted spaghetti squash
This classic, hearty Italian sauce adds some masculinity and depth to roasted spaghetti squash for a nutritious and satisfying low-carb, comfort meal. Customize by going meatless or pair it with your favorite pasta for a taste of Roman home cooking in your own kitchen. I believe that Italian food is the world’s comfort food….
Healthy Diplomat: Mediterranean pasta primavera
It is said that necessity is the mother of invention. A full pantry (thanks to inheriting the contents of a friend’s), a bad storm, and fresh vegetables made for the perfect condition to create something new. So create I did. This pasta is a great way to use and enjoy late spring/early summer’s best vegetables….
Having fun with harissa, Part I: The harissa omelet
Whether you’re a harissa fan or harissa what?, learn about this spicy North African condiment and try out a few recipes – you’ll be hooked! Today, I’ll share a habit I started while in Tunisia on the #wholelifechallenge – limiting starches, sugars, and dairy – by incorporating harissa into an omelet for a spicy, satisfying,…
DIY Turkish Iskender Kabob
Bring Turkish cuisine into your home with this recipe for homemade Iskender kabob that is so easy, even for those chefs whose kitchen expertise is largely confined to opening take-out! In my last post, I shared my first experience with the Turkish Iskender kabob. Roasted meat, toasted flatbread, tangy tomato sauce, and tart yogurt combine…
The Culinary Diplomat 