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Cooking with Dianne Morin 

Nourishing Bone Broth for Fasting, Wellness & Everyday Health

4/20/2025

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Bone Broth Recipe 

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 hours
Yield: About 12 servings

 Why I Love This BrothBone broth is my go-to on fasting days—comforting, nutrient-rich, and incredibly satisfying. When I sip on 3 to 4 cups throughout the day, it helps keep my energy steady and hunger at bay. It’s also one of my favorite health hacks when I’m fasting and want to feel my best—hydrated, nourished, and glowing from the inside out.

 Ingredients
  • 2 unpeeled carrots, scrubbed and roughly chopped
  • ​3 celery stalks with leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1 medium onion, roughly chopped (leave the skin on!)
  • ​8 garlic cloves, smashed (skins on)
  • 3 pounds of bones (oxtail, cow foot, chicken bones, chicken feet, or pig’s feet — bones with joints are best)
  • ​2 to 3 dried bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric
  • 3 to 4 pimento seeds(optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 to 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

 Directions
  1. In a large stock pot or slow cooker, combine the chopped vegetables, garlic, bones, and bay leaves.

  2. Sprinkle in the salt, turmeric, pepper, pimento seeds, and thyme.

  3. Drizzle the apple cider vinegar over everything—this helps draw nutrients out of the bones.

  4. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about 2 inches (roughly 14 cups or 1.4 gallons).

  5. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours.

  6. Skim off any foam or film from the top during or after cooking. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning as needed.

  7. Remove solids, then strain the broth into glass jars or containers.

Storage:
  • Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • ​Freezes beautifully for up to 3–4 months
 
Tips to Boost Flavor & Nutrition
  • Roast your bones and meat (like oxtail) before adding to the pot for extra depth.
  • ​Add mushrooms, broccoli stems, or cauliflower cores for added richness and nutrients.

Health Benefits of Bone Broth (Especially While Fasting)
  1. Fills You Up, Not Out – With collagen and gelatin, bone broth satisfies your hunger while being light on calories, making it perfect for intermittent fasting.

  2. Gut Health Hero – The gelatin helps heal the gut lining, easing digestion and reducing bloating!

  3. Glowing Skin & Strong Nails – Rich in collagen, it supports healthy skin, hair, and nails so you feel confident and radiant.

  4. Joint & Bone Support – The minerals and amino acids help support your joints, perfect if you’re active or always on the go.

  5. Immune Boosting – Garlic, turmeric, and bay leaf bring anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting benefits.

  6. Mood & Energy Lift – The amino acid glycine found in bones helps with sleep, stress, and calm focus—exactly what you want when showing up as your best self.

    Save this recipe and make a batch at the start of your week. Whether you're in a fasting window, this broth will support you mind, body, and soul.
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Spicy Vietnamese Beef Stew with Noodles (Bò Kho)

2/9/2025

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Discovering Bò Kho in Vietnam - My Journey Through Flavor While traveling through Vietnam.
Last fall, I found myself on a culinary adventure like no other—zigzagging from bustling cities to quiet coastal towns, tasting each region’s signature dish. Every stop brought new flavors, but there was one dish that stole my heart: Bò Kho, a fragrant Vietnamese beef stew.
 
I still remember the first time I tried it. Sitting at a humble street-side café, the aroma of lemongrass and star anise filled the air as the vendor handed me a steaming bowl of Bò Kho. With a crispy baguette in hand, I tore off a piece and dipped it into the rich, spiced broth. One bite, and I was hooked.

If you’re ready to bring a taste of Vietnam into your own kitchen, I am excited to share my favorite Bò Kho recipe with you. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!


Ingredients:
1 1/2 to 2 lbs beef stew meat or beef brisket, cut into large chunks
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 tablespoon annatto seeds (optional) soaked in oil for color
4 large cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 stalk of lemongrass, cut into 3-inch lengths after removing tough woody parts
3 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 large carrot, cut into chunks
1 large daikon radish, peeled and cut into chunks
1 cup coconut water or beef stock
2 cups water
2 star anis
1 cinnamon stick
3 kaffir lime leaves
1 tablespoon chili oil
Fresh Thai basil and cilantro for garnish
1 loaf of crusty baguette or cooked rice or egg noodles
Instructions
  1. Prepare the beef: Add salt and black pepper to beef.  Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef chunks on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, sauté garlic, onion, and lemongrass until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  3. Season and spice: Add fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, tomato paste, chili powder, five-spice powder, paprika, and turmeric. Stir well. 
  4. Simmer the stew: Return the beef to the pot and stir well to coat the aromatics over the beef. Add coconut water, water, star anise, cinnamon stick, and kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Add vegetables: Add carrot and daikon radish chunks. Continue simmering until the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.
  6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt as needed. Add chili oil; remove the star anise, cinnamon stick, lemongrass, and lime leaves before serving.
  7. Cook your noodles per package instructions, transfer to bowls, and ladle the soup over the top.
  8. Serve: Garnish with chili oil, Thai basil and cilantro. Serve with a crusty baguette for dipping. 


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Exploring Seoul: A Taste of Tradition with Korean Pancakes

1/6/2025

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In September 2024, I visited Seoul, South Korea, for an incredible adventure filled to the brim with energy, culture, and lively markets, not to mention oodles of great food. Of all the great experiences from that trip, one thing that really stood out was something called Yachaejeon, or Korean pancake—a savory vegetable pancake so full of flavor.
As I wandered through Seoul's lively marketplaces, the smell of street vendors was a temptation I could not resist. There they were, flipping golden-brown pancakes on sizzling griddles, filling the air with a homey, savory smell. Their pancakes were simple yet replete with flavor—thick, juicy pancakes filled with fresh green onions and carrots—a real testament to the beauty of Korean cuisine.
To elevate the experience, I paired my pancake with crispy Korean fried chicken. The contrast of textures—crunchy chicken and soft, savory pancake—was nothing short of heavenly. Each bite was a harmony of flavors that was made even better with a tangy, umami-packed dipping sauce that brought everything into perfect balance.
From that experience, I created this recipe, Korean Vegetable Pancake with Traditional Dipping Sauce, for sharing in my cooking class as a tribute to all those wonderful moments I had exploring Seoul and to bring a little piece of Korea into your kitchen.
Whether you have this pancake as a snack, side dish, or main course, I hope it takes you to the heart of Seoul and back, like it did me. And make sure to have it with Korean fried chicken—it's a combination you'll thank me for later!
Korean Vegetable Pancakes (Yachaejeon)Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Pancakes:
    1 cup all-purpose flour

    1/4 cup potato starch (optional for extra crispiness)

    1 cup cold water

    1/2 teaspoon salt

    1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

    4  green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces - long

    ⅓ cup leek, sliced thinly  

    1/2 cup shredded carrots

   1/2 cup zucchini, julienned
    1/4 cup onion, thinly slice
     2 tablespoons avocado oil (per pancake)
For the Dipping Sauce:
     2 tablespoons soy sauce

​     1 tablespoon rice vinegar
     1 teaspoon sesame oil
    1 teaspoon sesame seeds
    1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes 
    1 green onion, finely chopped (optional)
    1 small garlic clove, minced

Instructions
Prepare the Pancake Batter

  1. ​In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, potato starch (if using), cold water, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. 
  2. Add the vegetables (green onions, carrots, zucchini, leeks, and onion) to the batter. Mix well to coat evenly

Cook the Pancakes:
  1. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil.
  2. Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly into a thin layer.
  3. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Flip the pancake and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.

Make the Dipping Sauce
:

  1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), green onion, and garlic. Stir well.

Serve
:

  1. Cut the pancakes into bite-sized pieces. Serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy your crispy, savory Korean vegetable pancakes with the perfectly balanced dipping sauce!



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Jamaican Black Cake Recipe (Christmas Pudding)

12/1/2024

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One of my fondest childhood memories of Christmas is the aroma of spices, rum, and molasses wafting through the house as my family baked Jamaican Black Cake. This rich and decadent dessert, also known as Christmas Pudding, is a staple in Jamaican households during the holiday season. Its deep flavors, soaked fruits, and moist texture make it unforgettable. But this cake is more than just a treat—it's a piece of Jamaican history. Black Cake, derived from British plum pudding, was adapted by enslaved Africans on the island who infused it with their creativity and the bold flavors of rum and tropical fruits. Over time, it evolved into the iconic holiday dessert we know today. Its preparation is a labor of love, often starting months in advance with the soaking of fruits—a tradition symbolizing patience and the spirit of celebration. This recipe is my homage to those childhood memories and the legacy of Jamaican culinary tradition. Let’s dive in and create your very own slice of history.

Ingredients
For the Fruit Mixture:
  • ½ cup prunes, pitted
  • 2 cups raisins
  • ¼ cup dates, pitted
  • ¼ cup apricots
  • ½ cup cherries
  • 1 tablespoon orange rinds
  • 1 cup Jamaican white rum or dark spiced rum 
  • 1 cup port wine
For the Cake Batter:
  • 6 oz all-purpose flour
  • 6 oz bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground allspice
  • ⅛ tsp ground cloves
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ lb salted butter, softened (2 sticks)
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 2 tsp lime juice
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 2 tbsp dark molasses or browning (caramelized sugar syrup)
For Soaking the Cake:
  • ¼ cup rum
  • ¼ cup port wine


Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture:
  • Combine prunes, raisins, dates, apricots, orange peel, and cherries in a glass jar.
  • Pour in the rum and port wine to completely cover the fruit.
  • Seal the jar with a tight-fitting metal lid and let the mixture soak for at least 30 days, or up to a year. Check occasionally and top up with more rum and wine to keep the fruits submerged.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
  • Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper or use nonstick cake pans.
  • Blend the soaked fruit mixture in a blender or food processor until coarsely chopped.
  • Whisk together the flour, bread crumbs, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt in a medium bowl.
  • Cream the butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Stir in the lime zest, vanilla extract, almond extract, lime juice, and molasses (or browning).
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, and beat well to incorporate fully.
  • Fold in the fruit mixture, distributing it evenly. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
3. Bake the Cake:
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Cover with parchment paper and foil.
  • Place a pan of water on the lower rack of the oven to create steam.
  • Bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Soak the Cake:
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  • Poke several holes in the tops with a skewer and spoon the rum and wine mixture over the cakes.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additional rum and wine can be added every few days.
​Serving and Tips

Serving
:

Jamaican Black Cake is best enjoyed after it has aged and absorbed the soaking liquids, making it moist and flavorful. Traditionally served at Christmas and weddings, it pairs beautifully with a warm drink or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips:
  • Texture: The batter should be thick enough for a spoon to stand upright in it.
  • Soaking Time: For the richest flavor, soak the fruits for several months.
  • Storage: Keep the cake in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for extended freshness.
  • Gluten-Free AdaptationFor a gluten-free Jamaican Black Cake, simply swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free bread crumbs. These substitutions will maintain the cake's rich texture and flavor, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences. Just ensure your other ingredients, like molasses or browning, are also labeled gluten-free for a completely safe treat!

    ​A Taste of Jamaica
Every bite of Jamaican Black Cake carries the essence of Christmas and the legacy of Jamaica's rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re continuing a cherished family tradition or trying it for the first time, this cake will surely become a festive favorite in your home. Enjoy!
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Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

11/17/2024

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A Creamy, Flavorful Indian ClassicButter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide. This rich and creamy dish features tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with butter, cream, and the warmth of traditional Indian flavors. Perfect for pairing with fluffy naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice, it’s a comforting dish that satisfies every craving.

Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 to 2  lb boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste (1 tsps)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 large tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped)
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 15 cashews
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • Salt to taste (2 tsp)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  • Water (as needed)


Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
  • In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, chili powder, garam masala, salt, and lemon juice.
  • Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
  • Heat 1 tbsp of butter and 1 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add the marinated chicken and cook until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
  • In the same pan on medium heat, add 2 tbsp of butter and 1 tbsp oil,  sauté the chopped onions until golden brown.
  • Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
  • Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
  • Mix in turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder, and cook for 5 minutes. 
  • Add 4 tablespoons of water, then the cashews, and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Blend the Sauce:
  • Transfer the cooled mixture to a blender. Add ½ cup of water and blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine and Cook:
  • Add 1 tbsp butter and reheat over medium heat. Return the sauce to the pan.
  • Stir in the blended sauce, adding ¼ cup of water to adjust consistency. Cook for 2 minutes.
  • Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to coat. Reduce the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Sprinkle kasuri methi over the top and stir. Simmer for an additional 3 -5 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve:
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.


Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken:
  • Marination is key: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
  • Balance the spice: Adjust chili powder to your preference for a milder or spicier dish.
  • Blend for creaminess: Blending the sauce ensures a smooth and luxurious texture.
  • Kasuri methi magic: Dried fenugreek leaves add an authentic, aromatic depth to the dish.
Enjoy your homemade butter chicken—a dish that will bring the flavors of India right to your table!
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Homemade Sandwich Bread

11/11/2024

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Say Goodbye to Store-Bought Bread: Homemade Sandwich Bread There’s something truly special about making your own bread at home. The aroma filling your kitchen, the simplicity of wholesome ingredients, and the joy of slicing into a loaf you made yourself—it’s a game changer. This sandwich bread recipe has become one of my family’s favorites, and once you try it, you might never want to buy bread from the store again! It's a labor of love that's well worth it.
Soft, fluffy, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to toast, this is my go-to recipe for a versatile and delicious homemade bread.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s bake some fresh bread!

Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose organic flour
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 1½ teaspoons sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1½ cups lukewarm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions
  1. Mix the Dough
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt first. Add the sugar and instant yeast, then pour in the lukewarm water. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a rubber spatula, mix until everything is well combined and forms a sticky dough.
  2. First Rise
    Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for at least 2 hours. It should double in size.
  3. Prepare the Pan
    While the dough is rising, butter your loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  4. Shape the Dough
    Once the dough has risen, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over it. Using your hands, gently fold the dough over itself 3 to 4 times to shape it into a rough loaf. Transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan and cover it with the kitchen towel again. Let it rise for another hour, or until it reaches the rim of the pan.
  5. Bake
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  6. Cool & Slice
    Remove the bread from the oven and carefully turn it out onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing—it’s worth the wait for those perfectly neat slices!

Pro Tips for Perfect Bread:
  • Make sure your water is lukewarm, not hot (around 100–110°F) —this helps activate the yeast without killing it.
  • For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with a bit of melted butter while it’s still warm.
  • Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for longer.
  • For an extra twist, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or oats on top of the dough before baking.

This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just slathering with butter while it’s still slightly warm. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see just how easy and rewarding baking your own bread can be.
For another bread recipe like this, visit Cooking with Dianne Morin. Let's bake something amazing together!
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Banana Bread

11/9/2024

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One of My Favorite Jamaican Childhood Memories: Banana Bread There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house. Growing up in Jamaica, this simple yet flavorful treat was a staple in my family’s kitchen. Every time I bake it, I’m transported back to those carefree childhood days, watching my mother effortlessly whip up this beloved recipe. It also takes me back to the days when I lovingly baked this for my own children during their childhood. Now, I’m excited to share it with you! This banana bread is moist, rich, and perfectly spiced with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon—classic Jamaican flavors. Add your favorite mix-ins like raisins, toasted walnuts, or dark chocolate for an extra special twist.

Ingredients
  • 3 very ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter!)
  • 1 stick of butter (½ cup), melted
  • ½ cup organic sugar or honey
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon sour cream
  • 1½ cups all-purpose organic flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of ground allspice
  • Pinch of cinnamon powder
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup raisins
  • ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts (optional)
  • ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks (optional)
Directions
  1. Preheat & Prep
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan and set aside.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and melted butter. Add the bananas and mash them with a fork until you have a lumpy, chunky texture. Stir in the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the banana mixture, whisking until just combined.
  4. Fold in the Goodies
    Gently fold in the raisins, chocolate chunks, and walnuts (if using) for an added burst of flavor and texture.
  5. Bake
    Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool & Serve
    Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for 10–15 minutes. Gently loosen the edges with a knife and transfer the banana bread to the rack to cool completely before slicing.
Pro Tip:
  • For a true Jamaican twist, enjoy your banana bread warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey—it’s pure comfort in every bite.
  • Want a richer flavor? Swap out the organic sugar for brown sugar to add a hint of caramel sweetness.
  • While you can skip the sour cream, it plays a key role in keeping the bread moist and tender. If you do omit it, consider adding a splash of milk or yogurt as a substitute.

I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your kitchen as much as it has been in mine. Let the flavors take you on a journey to Jamaica, one bite at a time!
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Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Homemade Wet Jerk Seasoning

11/7/2024

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Experience the bold, spicy flavors of Jamaica with this jerk chicken recipe, complete with a homemade wet jerk seasoning rub. This marinade combines the earthy heat of Scotch Bonnet peppers with fragrant herbs and spices, giving your chicken a taste that’s rich, smoky, and packed with island flavor.

Jerk Seasoning Rub
Ingredients:
  • 1 bunch of thyme (about 1 oz.)
  • 1 bunch of scallions (7 stalks)
  • 1-2 Scotch Bonnet or habanero peppers
  • 1/4 cup oil
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp pimento seeds
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ginger powder
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 2-3 tsp salt
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 2-3 tsp browning or soy sauce
Directions for Wet Jerk Seasoning Rub:
  1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until a thick paste forms.
  2. Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
  3. Use 3-4 tbsp of this jerk seasoning to marinate 3-4 lbs of meat or vegetables. For best results, marinate chicken for at least 4 hours (or overnight) and marinate veggies or tofu for 30 minutes.

Jerk Chicken
​Ingredients:
  • 1 ½ lbs. chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1/4 cup homemade jerk seasoning rub (from above)
Directions:
  1. Marinate
    Coat the chicken thoroughly with 1/4 cup of the jerk seasoning rub. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. Grill
    Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken, turning every 15 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 170°F for dark meat and 180°F for white meat. To achieve a deep brown color, sear the chicken on the hottest part of the grill for a few minutes toward the end.
  3. Oven Option
    If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the chicken until cooked through, then broil for the last 3-5 minutes to develop a rich, brown color.
Serve this delicious jerk chicken with Jamaican rice and peas or your favorite sides for an authentic Caribbean meal that’s full of flavor and spice. Enjoy!
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Jamaican Rice and Peas

11/7/2024

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Ingredients:
  • 1 can red kidney beans (or 1 1/2 cups cooked)
  • 1/4 cup coconut cream
  • 2 scallions, chopped
  • 1-2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 3 sprigs of thyme
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 whole habanero pepper
  • 2-3 cups long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups water
  • 1-2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
  1. Prepare the Base:
    In a large saucepan, combine water, kidney beans (with their liquid), coconut cream, chopped garlic, scallions, salt, black pepper, thyme, and coconut oil. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Let it cook on high heat for about 5 minutes.
  2. Adjust Seasoning:
    Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed before adding the rice.
  3. Add the Rice:
    Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Add the washed rice and the whole habanero pepper to the boiling pot. Be careful not to cut or break the pepper unless you prefer a spicier dish. Allow it to return to a boil for 2 minutes.
  4. Simmer:
    Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Discard the thyme sprigs before serving.
  5. Serve:
    Enjoy your rice and peas with classic Jamaican jerk chicken or pork for an authentic Caribbean meal.
Tip:
This recipe can also be made in a rice cooker. Follow the first step in the rice cooker, then add the rice. Add at least 1 inch of water covering the rice and beans. Let the rice cooker handle the rest!
Enjoy a taste of Jamaica with my traditional rice and peas dish!
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Jamaican Sorrel Punch

10/19/2024

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Ingredients:
4 cups fresh sorrel (hibiscus flowers)
8 cups water
1 piece of fresh ginger (about 2 inches), peeled and crushed
10-12 whole cloves
5 pimento seeds

1 cinnamon stick
Orange peel (optional)

1-2 cups sugar (adjust to taste)
1-2 tbsp lime juice (optional)
Rum (optional, to taste)
Ice (for serving)

Instructions:
  1.  In a large pot, add 8 cups of water, sorrel, crushed ginger, cloves, pimento seeds, and a cinnamon stick and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes. Then, remove from heat.
  3. Cover the pot and let the sorrel steep for 6-8 hours. For a more intense flavor, you can let it steep overnight or for 24 hours. 
  4. After steeping, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the sorrel flowers, ginger, and spices.
  5. Stir in the sugar and adjust the sweetness to your preference. If desired, add a little lime juice or a tablespoon of rum.
  6. Allow the sorrel drink to cool completely, then refrigerate for a few hours until chilled.
  7. Serve the sorrel over ice.

Optional Garnish:
 
Lime slices
Orange peel
Fresh mint leaves

Tips:

Frozen sorrel gives a better flavor and color than dried sorrels.
You can add 1 tablespoon of uncooked rice to the sorrel to speed fermentation.  
You can add orange peel to the sorrel during the cooking process

Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing sorrel drink, perfect for any occasion!
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    Hi, I’m Dianne! Cooking has always been my passion, and there’s nothing I love more than creating delicious dishes that bring joy to others. For over 18 years, I’ve been sharing my love of food through hands-on cooking classes, helping people discover the art of cooking while having fun in the kitchen. I’m inspired by flavors from around the world and enjoy experimenting with new recipes, blending tradition with a touch of creativity. When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll likely find me exploring nature, soaking up inspiration for my next dish. Join me on this flavorful journey—let’s cook, create, and share smiles together!

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    Healthy food doesn't have to be boring! Join my semi-regular newsletter, where you can explore a variety of delicious, wholesome recipes, find out about upcoming classes you can join, and stay in the loop with everything I am working on. Let's create something flavorful together!
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