Indian Style Cashew Chicken

This rich, comforting mélange is called Indian_Style to distinguish it from Thai Cashew Chicken, which is a very different dish, although equally delicious. Serve this over brown basmati rice with zesty mango chutney, but other robust fruit chutneys work well, too. Add a green vegetable, such as steamed broccoli, to round out the color palette.

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Black Sticky Rice Pudding

Years ago, when my husband, daughter and I traveled in Thailand, we became addicted to mangos and sticky rice, a truly delicious sweet. After our return, we tried but could never duplicate the superb taste and texture of the authentic version. Although this black sticky rice pudding is a different dish, it reminds me of that delightful concoction. In fact, it’s so good you don’t even need the fruit. Although it’s high in saturated fat, it comes from the coconut milk, which may have healthful benefits.

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Red Beans and Red Rice

 

Red Beans and Red Rice (page 178)

 

Here’s a fresh twist on the classic Southern dish of red beans and rice. Bulked up with muscular red rice, this is very hearty — with the addition of salad, it’s a meal in itself. The green peas add a burst of color, making this a visually attractive dish that looks good on a buffet. It is particularly tasty as an accompaniment to roast chicken or pork, or pork chops or a platter of roasted vegetables.

 

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Roasted Red Pepper Risotto

 

This is a great way to dress up a simple dinner or to handle unexpected guests. Pick up a rotisserie chicken or two or a vegetable stir-fry, and a precooked vegetable, such as asparagus vinaigrette. Make this risotto, open a bottle of wine and everyone will think you’re amazing

 

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Sausage Spiked Peas n Rice

Sausage-Spiked Peas ’n’ Rice(page 144)

What could be easier than this combination of brown and wild rice and split peas, seasoned with sausage and fennel? The flavors are fantastic and I love the way the split peas dissolve into the sauce, creating a luscious texture that I find extremely satisfying. Add a simple green salad or some steamed green beans and enjoy.

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Arroz con Pollo

 

This Spanish approach to chicken and rice is a great one-dish meal, delicious enough to serve to guests. I love this version, which has quite a bit of liquid, because I enjoy spooning the luscious sauce over the chicken as I eat. If you prefer a drier version, reduce the quantity of chicken stock by 1 cup (250 mL) and/or omit the wine. A tossed green salad is all you need to add.

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