Cooking in a flash

As part of my fiance's prize package to Tofurkyfest, we signed up for several cooking classes. The first was Vegetarian Cooking 101 with Chef Alex Bury which was really a how to cook fast, satisfying vegan meals for beginners. You'd think after a few years of vegan eating, this class would seem like old news, but we learned something new with each recipe. Here's the take aways that were new to me.

Tofu Scramble

Tofu Scramble and Tofurky Breakfast Links Samples Plate

• Mix a box of extra firm tofu with a tetrapak of soft tofu for a softer scramble texture. 
• Make a batch of tofu scramble seasoning mix and store it in the cupboard to make prep even faster
• Be patient with the stirring in the pan or better yet bake the scramble to let the tofu brown/carmelize for better flavor. 
• Bonus: Tofurky breakfast links are really tasty. 

Less than 5 Minute Quick and Easy Tostada (recipe) (no picture, sorry)

• Take a container of refried beans and Tofurky soy chorizo, fresh salsa and corn tortillas to work for a quick lunch. Simply spread refried beans like peanut butter on the tortilla and add some chorizo before heating in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Add salsa or other toppings and enjoy! 

Rainbow Veggie Wrap (recipe)

• Roll up a few for grab and go lunches during the week, or slice them and store in the fridge for grab and go snacks. 

Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Don't be afraid of the rice wrapper. You can do this!

• Use a 9x13 cake pan with cool water to soak the rice papers. Gives you room and time to reduce stress of dealing with too soft, torn wrappers.
• Make a head by a few hours to let the wrapper seal and flavors meld, but eat them the same day for freshness.
• Add Tofurky coconut curry tempeh for a protein boost. 
• Alex Bury's spring roll recipe (you can sub thai basil for mint for a anise, peppery fresh addition) and Humane Society of United States' peanut sauce recipe. 

Thanks to Humane Society of the United States and Alex Bury for teaching the class at Tofurkyfest. I know I learned some new things. For more recipe ideas (designed for people looking to eat less meat), check out their Guide to Meat-Free Meals.