Recipes

Sprinkle the prawns with the mixed chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder and kosher salt. I realize I have no actual amounts here, but it's pretty much 'until it looks right'. Oh, cumin and/or mexican oregano would be good in that combination too. Probably chili powder will be the heaviest, but don't skimp on the salt. Saute the prawns in 1/2 tbs butter, and be careful not to overcook them, lest they turn rubbery.

An overnight brine ensures that these chops are incredibly tender. The jelly provides a sweet flavor which permeates really well into the fatty areas. These were a hit with everyone in the family, and Gramma even compared them to pork chops when she was a kid.

Heat the wok to a good, hot wok temperature; the highest setting on your stovetop, or like I do, over the grill outside. (The burner from a turkey fryer is great for this). Put the vegetable oil in the wok and get it hot. You can use about half the oil here if you want. Add the garlic and toss until fragrant. This will take less than 30 seconds, probably. Add dou miao and salt in batches; let dou miao wilt slightly before adding more. As moisture from the leaves evaporates, add water if necessary. (I haven't found it necessary to do so yet).

Sloppy joes are traditionally kind of cheap tasting and overly salty and overly sweet, and messier than necessary. These sloppy joes have a bit of a tex mex flavor to them from the chili powder, and everyone in the house has to remind themselves that they're full, lest they go back for more. They're savory enough to make the adults happy while still being a fun food with a good texture for children.