Here’s a delicious vegan dish that’s perfect for heart health and a Valentine’s dinner. Red kuri squash hails from Japan and has brilliant orange flesh. And the skin is edible too! It’s not such a struggle to cut, and the flavour almost has a buttery nutty overtone. We paired it with a filling made of powerful nutrients that will keep your cardio ticking well.
Flexibility plus
If kuri squash is hard to find, switch it up with a kabocha or acorn squash. If pomegranates aren’t to be found, substitute with dried cranberries or golden raisins that have been plumped in warm water.
Chinese five-spice powder
A tasty seasoning to have on hand for a myriad of dishes, Chinese five-spice powder is delicious sprinkled over chicken, pork, or glazed carrots and is so easy to make on your own. In dry pan, toast 5 whole star anise pods and 2 tsp (10 mL) peppercorns over medium heat for 3 minutes, or until fragrant. Transfer to spice grinder along with 1 1/2 Tbsp (22 mL) fennel seeds. Pulse until finely ground. Pass through sieve into small bowl. Stir in 1 Tbsp (15 mL) ground cinnamon and 1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground cloves. Store in tightly sealed jar for up to 6 months. Makes approximately 1/4 cup (60 mL).
