chop A Culinary Playground

Poha Berry Gin Fizz

Poha Berries (Capped Gooseberries) are such a treat.  

They grow on the island of Hawaii and are prized for making jam. They have a husk like a tomatillo.  I came upon a pint of them and thought they would make a nice cocktail because of the tart yet slightly sweet.

1     Cup Poha Berries, husked and rinsed

1     Shot Gin ( I prefer Hendricks)

       Seltzer water

       Crushed ice

Puree Poha Berries in a blender.  Strain seeds out.   Fill a glass with ice add two tablespoon of Poha puree,  gin and seltzer.

Enjoy!

Saffron Rice and Pomegranate Salad

Since we are experiencing some extreme humidity in Hawaii a cool salad is what is needed for dinner.  The quinoa and pomegranate gives a delightful crunch.

3       Cups Saffron Rice, cooked (see recipe

         below)

1 1/2 Quinoa, cooked

1       Cup pomegranate seeds

1/2    Cup beets, raw, diced

1/4    Cup red onion, diced

1/4    Cup yellow bell pepper diced

1/4    Cup celery, chopped

2       Tablespoons Italian parsley, chopped

1/4    Cup lemon juice

3       Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

         Salt and Pepper

Combine all ingredients and chill until serving.

Saffron Rice

1 1/2   Cup long grain rice

3         Cups water

1         Pinch of Saffron

Combine in sauce pan, bring to a boil.  When water comes to boil reduce heat to low and cover, cook for twenty minutes.