New Year, New Flat!

SO I've finally arrived back in Switzerland a few weeks ago, this time in the center of town with a new place and flatmate. I have to pinch myself: the place is really cool, as is she!! It made all the goodbyes somewhat easier. In fact this 'trendy' part of town is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Zürich. Exploring has been fun, with loads of restaurants, bars, and in walking distance the clubs :) Of course eating out here is incredibly expensive compared to New York. A nice Thai restaurant across the street charges 20 francs for soup. And the other day I had a buffet salad to go with my cappuccino to the tune of 18. I can't complain though, the quality is always excellent.

I've also explored the various ethnic markets - picking up labneh at the Turkish market, pakora snacks at the Sri Lankan grocer - as well as the local farmer's markets. I finally found the German word for kale at an organic vegetable stall at the Helvetia market Tuesday morning (Federkohl). This inspired me to get back into cooking by making a nutritious lunch...

Sautéed Kale with Broccoli & Red Beans

200g kale
1/2 small head of broccoli
1/2 red onion
1 clove garlic
1 T olive oil
1 T Bragg's liquid aminos (or tamari sauce)
ginger
salt
pepper
1 small can red beans (or any!)

• Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 5 minutes, still firm and bright green. Drain and set aside.
• Chop the red onion into slivers and dice the garlic finely. Sautée in the olive oil for five minutes, then add the garlic and spices (ginger, salt and pepper to taste).
• Rinse the kale and chop or rip leaves into medium pieces, discarding stalks. Add to the pan.
• Add the Bragg's (or tamari or soy sauce) and cover pan, letting the kale cook for about 10 minutes.
• Add the broccoli and stir fry for a couple of minutes, then remove from heat.
• Serve in a bowl topped with the beans...mmm.

Much more to say about my arrival back in Züri...forthcoming!