Beef Lugaw

Lugaw (pronounced “loo-gow”) is soup to which rice is added to make a porridge-like consistency. In the Philippines, it is often made with beef or beef and tripe; with pork stock, stomach and intestines; or with chicken and various vegetables. Beef lugaw is generally unadorned with vegetables, so serve a simple salad on the side. You will need a big pot to make the stock.

Broiled Salmon With Sweet Corn and Barley Risotto

Pot barley takes a bit longer to cook than the arborio rice commonly used in risottos, but it doesn't require constant stirring and is packed with fibre. Chervil is a mild aromatic herb with a subtle anise flavour; use parsley if you can't find any.

Slow Cooker Balsamic-Braised Pot Roast

Weeknight entertaining is a breeze when you put your slow cooker to work! Adding a bit of flour to the sauce at the end of cooking turns it into a rich gravy to serve alongside the roast. Green peas and mashed sweet potatoes make great accompaniments to this hearty cold-weather dish.

Japanese Chicken Hot Pot (Mizutaki)

Vegetable Couscous with Pork Scaloppine

Looking for a tender, lean alternative to chicken? Try pork tenderloin. Cut crosswise into thin cutlets, it cooks in minutes and needs only a little seasoning for satisfying flavour. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over top.

Corn and Saffron Bisque

A small cup of this velvety golden soup is an elegant start to a holiday meal. Use yellow corn instead of bicolour kernels (peaches and cream) for superior flavour.

Cajun Beef and Okra Stew

Cajun seasoning, okra and sausage transform plain old stewing beef into a lively gumbo. When cooked, the okra acts as a natural sauce thickener. You can make this dish even heartier by serving it over a steaming bowl of rice.

Easy Oven-Baked Crispy Tofu

This tofu is so delicious and simple, you'll look for any excuse to make it. Serve as an appetizer or as a meatless main, either with a side of rice or stuffed inside a steamed Asian bun.

Orange Salmon and Orzo Salad

The combination of sweet orange, savoury salmon and fresh herbs makes this pasta salad a tasty, healthful option. If you like, serve smaller portions as a side dish at your next gathering.

Eggplant and Potato Ragout with Feta Topping

Hearty is the description for this vegetarian dish that is sure to be a new buffet and potluck favourite.