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Even from a young age, my mother noticed my adventurous, independent side. When I was old enough to drive, I’d often take short day trips to the coast or the mountains, in search of new experiences and the beauty of our state. That boldness often translated to food, an experience that often goes hand-in-hand with travel, and I found myself diversifying my palate with unique culinary experiences. I discovered much about myself and my taste preferences and found that I quite enjoyed the fresh, bold flavors unique to Asian Cuisine.
Always seeking to broaden my own kids’ palate, I regularly incorporate Asian dishes into our weekly meals, their favorite being a simple Teriyaki Salmon with brown rice. One of my staple ingredients for creating Asian-inspired dishes is Kikkoman soy sauce. Traditionally brewed, Kikkoman soy sauce is aged for several months to develop its rich, mellow flavor, distinct aroma and signature color. I personally like the fact that I can use soy sauce in place of spices (including salt!) as a natural flavor enhancer for quick meals and more elaborate gourmet dishes. And despite the fact that my kids always prefer Japanese cuisine, soy sauce is diverse enough to be used in a variety of dishes including American, Mediterranean and Caribbean dishes.
A couple of weeks ago, a friend asked me what I’d choose for my very last meal, if given the opportunity. Without hesitation, I declared my love for Butternut Squash Ravioli. There is something simple, yet decadent about a perfectly crafted ravioli, which is why it is my inspiration for today’s recipe. Originating in Italy, this square-shaped dumpling is filled and sealed between two layers of thin dough, then boiled and served in broth or with a sauce. Variations are limitless and can include a blend of cheeses, meat and vegetables and then boiled, baked or fried. Consistent with my vegetarian lifestyle, I opted for a simple Asian-inspired flavor profile consisting of spinach, carrots, shallots, mushrooms, ginger, soy sauce, and ricotta cheese.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 shallots chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots chopped
- 2 cups of fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Kikkoman soy sauce
- 2 tsp fresh ginger minced
- 1/4 cup ricotta
- 24 Won Ton Wraps
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Sauté shallots, mushrooms and carrots in olive oil until soft (do not brown)
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Place fresh spinach in a glass bowl with 1 tablespoon of water
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Cover with a plate and microwave for 1 minute to blanch spinach. Drain.
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In a food processor, puree shallot mixture, spinach, soy sauce, ginger, and ricotta (leave slightly chunky).
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Place 2 teaspoons of filling in the middle of each square wrap (total of 12) (do not overfill)
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Fill a small bowl with warm water
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Dip a finger into the water and "paint" a line of water along each side of wrap
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Place a second wrap on top, removing the air
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Crimp edges together tightly with the tines of a fork
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Bring 6 quarts of water to a rolling boil
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Turn down heat so that water is gently boiling and add ravioli. I recommend cooking the ravioli in batches so they do not stick together
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Cook until the ravioli rise to the top, indicating they are done
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Serve immediately with Kikkoman soy sauce, fresh spinach and sesame seeds, if desired
Making ravioli from scratch is exciting and the result is absolutely gratifying, but it does take some patience. Here are a few tips I’ve gleaned that will help you get this Asian Ravioli Recipe right every single time.
1. Leave the filling slightly chunky so that it has some texture
2. Allow the flavors to meld (You can set the mixture in the refrigerator for an hour if time affords)
3. Don’t overfill the ravioli or they will burst during the cooking process
4. Be sure to remove the air and seal each ravioli tightly to avoid having them burst during the cooking process
5. Consider baking or even frying these ravioli for a unique twist on this recipe
Overall, we were quite pleased with our Asian Ravioli Recipe. The Asian-inspired ingredients made for a unique, enjoyable flavor profile while still retaining the texture and consistency of a traditional ravioli.
For additional recipes, visit KikkomanUSA.com.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Kikkoman. The opinions and text are all mine.
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