W
e have long seen correlations between culinary pursuits and jewelry design. It’s been noted that, while all designers have the same list of “ingredients,” the creative output can be singularly unique. Considering the recipes that were submitted this year for our Carats X Carrots series, we realized that these similarities also extend to “problem solving.” Exceptional designers are perpetually overcoming challenges of fit, form and function, utilizing ingenious techniques for making their jewelry easy to put on and beautiful to wear. Many of the recipes here are variations on a theme that serve to overcome restrictions of time or taste.
Take Lisa Nik’s Hot Honey Salmon bowl as an example. It satisfies her craving for sushi, but without the complexity of constructing a roll. Sanaz Doost’s obsession with the traditional Persian dish, Tahchin, which typically contains meat, was not deterred by the fact that she’s vegetarian; she figured out a way to alter the ingredients without compromising the deliciousness of the dish. Just in time for the holidays, we’re delighted to present some apps, main courses and one festive cocktail to add to your cheer!
Lunar Rain, Baked Phyllo Dough Spring Rolls
The designer for Lunar Rain, Melissa Chen, says that they love to eat spring rolls in her house, but they find the deep fried version too greasy. Her recipe for these tasty delights gives the crunch and flavor of a traditional spring roll but with healthier ingredients foraged from her own garden. She also notes that by swapping out a few ingredients, these can also easily be made vegan. [Editor’s Note: as a proud vegan, I’m thrilled to report that Phyllo/Filo pastry is made up of compressed flour and water so it IS vegan-friendly!]
For a printable version of Melissa’s recipe click here.
Statement Paris, Acai Bowl:
The designer behind Statement Paris, Amélie Huynh, creates sleek, sophisticated jewelry that serves as an expression for inner strength. The recipe she submitted to our Carats X Carrots feature also encourages creativity and self expression, which can change depending on one’s mood and appetite. With these delectable guidelines, a healthy breakfast or anytime snack is well within anyone’s reach.
For a printable version of Amélie’s Acai Bowl recipe click here.
Lisa Nik, Hot Honey Salmon Bowl:
Los Angeles-based designer, Lisa Nik, is the epitome of California dreamin’. The passion she puts into her gemstone-centric collection extends to her love of locally grown ingredients, including fresh vegetables, fruits and seafood. The recipe she submitted to our Carats X Carrots feature is ultimately a zesty deconstruction of sushi rolls where bright, crispy veggies play a starring role.
For a printable version of Lisa’s Hot Honey Salmon Bowl click here.
Vanessa Fernandez, Cuban Sandwich:
Cuban Armenian designer and bench jeweler Vanessa Fernandez is a proud Miamian. Sometimes considered the “Capital of Latin America” due to its high Latin American population, Miami is famous as much for its food scene as it is for its pristine beaches. While fancy restaurant’s abound in Miami, any local or seasoned visitor will tell you that the stands and carts serving up street foods are where many of their most delectable masterpieces can be found. For her Carats X Carrots submission, Vanessa shares with us her recipe for one of Miami’s most celebrated dishes, a Cuban Sandwich (aka Cubano).
For a printable version of Vanessa’s Cuban Sandwich click here.
Sanaz Doost, Tahchin:
We are thrilled that Canadian-based designer, Sanaz Doost, shared with us a traditional Persian dish, Tahchin, the ingredients of which she alters to adhere to her vegetarian diet. “Tah” meaning “bottom,” and “Chin” meaning “arrange,” the dish is known for its golden, saffron-infused rice cake which forms a crispy, golden crust called tahdig, aka “bottom” or “crust.” Sanaz explains, “This crispy layer is arguably the best part of the dish. Unlike regular tahdig, Tahchin has a denser, more cake-like texture that can be sliced with a spatula or knife. It’s my favorite dish, especially this time of the year!”
For a printable version of Sanaz’ Tahchin recipe click here.
Genevra Rao, Holiday Espresso Martini:
The reputation of COUTURE’s V.P. of Operations, Genevra Rao, precedes her. Meticulous, with an inexhaustible work ethic, and showcasing a cool, calm demeanor in even the most stressful situations, she shoulders the entire functioning of the show with grace and aplomb. With as much work as Genevra does on a daily basis, nobody deserves a drink more than she does, so we’re always heartened to know that, along with her husband Mike, Genevra enjoys putting together well-proportioned craft cocktails at home. Genevra’s birthday is very close to Christmas, so last year, to help her ring in her new year, Mike put together this festive Holiday Espresso Martini.
For a printable version of Genevra and Mike Rao’s Holiday Espresso Martini click here.
