Mushroom & Chia Pesto Recipe
INSPIRED BY THE MAYANS
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Ancient Mayan people firmly believed chia seeds possessed supernatural powers and used it in religious practice. Also, in Mayan the word chia means strength. It was a tiny seed touted for providing stamina to warriors.
Today, a modern Mexican tribe uses chia in a mixed drink, which supposedly enables them to run hundreds of miles. Meanwhile, Mayans believed mushrooms created psychedelic effects. Together, mushrooms and chia seeds are important to Mayan culture and beliefs.
SAVE FOR LATER
Makes 2 cups
Ingredients
1 tablespoon chia seeds
2 cups chopped mixed fresh mushrooms
1 loosely-packed cup fresh basil
1/3 cup fresh mozzarella cheese
1/2 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup olive oil
Directions
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Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Blend until the desired consistency forms.
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If using a mortar and pestle, crush the chia seeds until a fine crumb forms. Add the mushrooms and basil, and mash until smooth. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Mash until the desired consistency forms.
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Store pesto in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use throughout the week in the next two recipes. Pesto can last in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months.
Uses
Tamale Cups
The corn husk-wrapped Mayan tamale is a portable serving of starch encasing a protein-based filling. They carry an important role in the cuisine among Mayan people. They are traditionally wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, and then steamed. Some Mayan tamales featured turkey or iguana.
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Salisbury Steak
American physician Dr. Salisbury invented this beef dish, and as a result it was named Salisbury steak. Traditionally, Salisbury steak is served over mashed potatoes. Highlighting a Mayan staple ingredient whose consistency is comparable to potatoes, mashed plantains are substituted instead.
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