Flavours of the ocean
Top tips for that sea taste…
- Many dishes traditionally containing fish can be adapted to make delicious fish free options. Paella with succulent artichokes, sun blushed tomatoes, almonds, sharp capers and tarragon will set your taste buds alive.
- Vegetarian Sushi is much easier to make than you may imagine. Most supermarkets sell sushi rice, rice vinegar, nori and wasabi – the basics for all good sushi.
- Pat dry tofu, slice thinly with small cuts made diagonally. Shallow fry in a non-stick frying pan. Don’t turn it over for at least 10 minutes, by which time one side will be nice and crispy. Season each piece with paprika, soya sauce and quarter tsp bottled smoke. Enjoy as a snack or add it to your Ocean pie recipe.
- Ocean pie, with a base of shallots, oyster mushrooms, garlic, dehydrated seaweed and crispy smoked tofu. Place this in a casserole dish, top with parsley sauce and mashed potato with melted cheese, black pepper, salt and nutmeg. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Utterly delicious.
- And if you are missing that deep fried batter experience, slice halloumi, dip in seasoned flour, then into a beer batter (beer and flour mix - simple) drop into hot vegetable oil. What a treat! Serve with home-made chips, mushy peas, tartar sauce and a slice of lemon. All served in the best bistros don’t you know!
- Fishless potato cakes can be created with drained braised tofu, finely chopped, smoked paprika, fried onions, parsley, soy sauce and cooked mashed potato. Dip in beaten egg then coat in breadcrumbs and shallow fry. For an extra fishy flavour add a little rehydrated seaweed to the mix.
- I don’t like to spoil the party but, crispy seaweed sold in most restaurants is in fact cabbage…
- Fresh seaweed can be bought from specialist suppliers and mailed to your door. Don’t be put off by the initial smell - once rinsed under a cold tap then steamed for 2 minutes it will have a subtle flavour of the ocean suitable for many oriental salads.
- Samphire, when available, is a delicate slightly salty vegetable. Steam for 2 minutes and serve with a little butter, poached eggs and wholemeal toast. Brunch never tasted so good.