Food by Maritsa
Lancaster, PA

I love photography, and I really love food! Thanks to the talented Maritsa and her culinary skills, I was able to combine those interests in one photoshoot. I enjoyed photographing and then eating this wonderful vegan dinner!

Martisa is a passionate home chef who can skillfully craft a wide variety of vegan dishes, including “veganized” versions of popular dishes and comfort foods. For this shoot, Maritsa planned a “Puerto Vegan” menu filled with some of the classic Puerto Rican dishes she grew up eating including “Jernil”—slow roasted jackfruit in place of pork (pernil) and Maduros—sweet plantains.

Yuca en Escabeche (Puerto Rican-style Yuca with Purple Onions)

Yuca, also known as ‘cassava’ is a starchy root vegetable similar that is native to Puerto Rico. It is also the source of tapioca! Maritsa prepared this dish by roasting the yuca, adding seasonings, topping them with onions, and garnishing with cilantro.

Lentil and Mushroom Empanadillas (Puerto Rican Turnover)

Maritsa turned this classic, fried comfort food vegan by replacing the beef with a hearty mix of lentil and mushroom.

Arroz con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice and Pigeon Peas)

Rice and beans is another classic Latin dish. Green olives and cilantro were used to pack in some extra flavor.

Mango Agua Fresca

Mango agua fresca is a simple and refreshing drink. All you need is fresh mango, water, and blender. Use enough water so it’s thinner than a smoothie would be. If you wish, add some sugar, add color with some paprika, and garnish with mint. Here’s a quick recipe to make this at home yourself: Mango agua fresca.

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