Terra Americana

In China I have learned that food does not have to be pretentious to make a statement.  I have learned that certain ingredients can always reside in your refrigerator and never be the same or get boring.  Sticky rice is such a thing.  Whatever looks like it is starting to get old gets chopped up, sauteed and tossed in to make this dish.

Some times I fry the rice, other times I heat it and present it as a bed for the main course.  This morning, I have heated plates of it in the oven, ready for the eggs I am poaching.  What a lovely and luscious way to ease into a summer Sunday...

• 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
• 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
• 4 scallions, sliced
• 3 cups of veggies from your fridge, chopped 
• 1/2 tbsp Fish Sauce
• 1 tbsp Tomato & Parsley Vinaigrette
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken stock
• 2 cups cooked sticky rice
• 1 cup Tofu, ham or shrimp (optional and cut to your liking)

In a large pan heat oil over med heat and saute scallion until tender, but not browned. Add the veggies, sesame seeds, stock and Veggie Rub. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.  When the liquid has reduced by 1/2, add the protein and sticky rice. Cook until the rice browns a bit.  If you want to add frozen peas, wait until the very end and let them thaw in the pan.

More of My China Odessy...

Ideas for those Vivacious Veggies

• Roasted Veggies

• Mini Quiches

• Beets and Carrots in Lime Vinaigrette

• Oven Roasted Tomatoes

Photo Credit:  Julie Cecchini