California is known for its laid-back lifestyle,fresh produce and cultural diversity – a combination that can only lead to delicious new dishes and fresh ways of eating.
"The food scene offers an abundance of flavours and techniques,and Californians appreciate them all,"says US recipe writer and food stylist Vivian Lui in her new cookbook,Eat California.
Here are four inventive recipes inspired by the spirit of the west coast.
Breakfast tacos
Tacos come in many forms throughout California – traditional versions from trucks,Korean tacos and vegan tacos with jicama as the base. The tortilla is a perfect vessel to fill with different ingredients,so it makes sense that there are so many adaptations.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 230g fresh breakfast sausage,casings removed
- 1 small onion,finely sliced
- 1 large poblano chilli pepper,stemmed,seeded and sliced
- sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 garlic clove,grated
- 8 small corn tortillas (about 13cm in diameter)
- 8 large eggs
Toppings
- Blitz all the ingredients in a food processor until smooth and lightly flecked with green herbs,scraping down the side as necessary. Season with salt and pepper.
- For a thinner dressing,add 1 tablespoon water at a time and process until you reach the desired consistency. Season lightly.
Makes:350ml
This is an edited extract fromEat California by Vivian Lui,published by Smith Street Books,RRP $49.99. Photography:Con Poulos. Food stylist:Vivian Lui.Buy now