Mariachis Cristianos En California Recipes

MARASCHINO CHERRY PARFAITS

Steps:

• Make the Maraschino cherries:
• Set a mesh sieve over a medium bowl. Bring cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and 2/3 cup water to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally; cook until cherries have released their juices and are softened but still intact, 20-25 minutes. Pour cherries into prepared sieve, letting juices collect in bowl. Set cherries aside.
• Return juices to same saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook until liquid is reduced to 1 1/2 cups (it will be a thin syrup at this point), 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat, add reserved cherries, and stir in liqueur and almond extract. Transfer maraschino cherries to jar, cover, and chill at least 24 hours before using.
• To assemble:
• Whisk yogurt, sour cream, powdered sugar, and salt in a large bowl until smooth; fold in meringue cookies.
• Layer maraschino cherries, fresh cherries, and yogurt mixture into 8 glasses, dividing evenly.
• Do Ahead
• Maraschino cherries can be made 2 weeks ahead. Keep chilled.

SPANISH CRISTIANOS Y MOROS ( BEANS AND RICE SIDEDISH)

Steps:

• Soak the dried beans, cook until tender and set aside.
• Meanwhile, combine all the dressing ingredients and blend well. (This can be done several hours in advance to allow the ingredients to marinate.).
• Cook the rice until done.
• Drain the warm beans and transfer 3 cups to a large bowl.
• Toss the black beans carefully with half of the white onion and half of the dressing.
• In another bowl, transfer the rice and toss with the remaining onion and dressing.
• On a large serving platter, arrange the beans on one side and the rice on the other side.
• Cover and set aside at room temperature for about 1 hour, or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Adjust seasonings if necessary and garnish with red pepper and parsley (or cilantro) if desired.