Tortilla Casserole

Name: Tortilla Casserole
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: One 15-to 16-ounce can pinto, pink, or black beans, drained and rinsed; One 15-to 16-ounce can crushed tomatoes; One 4-ounce can chopped mild green chiles; 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed; 2 scallions, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Oil for the dish; 10 corn tortillas; 1 1/2 cups grated vegan Monterey Jack, Cheddar or nacho cheese; Steamed vegetables, optional (see Variation); Salsa (red or green); Vegan Sour Cream (page 213), optional

January 24, 2012

Here’s my favorite recipe from this book’s predecessor, Vegetarian Express, now out of print. I just had to bring it forward to this book; it’s one of those dishes that saves the day when you’re low on fresh groceries, since it’s made largely of pantry and freezer staples. It’s also a reliable dish for feeding last-minute company. In this slightly updated version, I’ve added homemade vegan sour cream (which is entirely optional, but adds a big “yum” factor to the dish) and a variation of an added vegetable layer.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.