New Year's Eve Party Treats

On New Year's Eve, whether you're hosting a party for many or a party for one, you'll probably want festive treats. And one of the most popular routes to go for New Year's Eve party food is an assortment of appetizers.

Party appetizers can be inspired by cuisine from around the world. The great thing is that anything goes as long as it's small or it can be shared. Our elegant international appetizer recipes will have your guests too busy savoring every bite to sing Auld Lang Syne:

   
  Scallion Pancakes
Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato Tapenade
Spiced Party Nuts
Wild Mushroom Fricassee Over Grilled Corn Cakes
‘Gorgonzola’ Arancini (Risotto Balls)
Baked Mediterranean-Style Chips 
Fresh Shiitake Pâté 
Light Spring Rolls
Soy Chicken Taquitos
Sashimi-Style Oyster Mushrooms and Wakame
Stuffed Grape Leaves 
 
   

 

One of my favorite types of cuisine for appetizers is Mexican.

In addition to the standard chips and salsa, guacamole, and bean dip, you can add mini-tacos and crispy taquitos to the party platter. And, I must tell you, faux-chicken taquitos are always a hit, whether your guests are vegetarians or meat-eaters.

soy_chicken_taquitos.jpg

 

Happy New Year!

Soy Chicken Taquitos

1 lb. vegetarian chicken, torn into small pieces
3 Tbsp. canola oil, plus additional oil for frying the taquitos
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium Anaheim peppers
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes
2 Tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tsp. oregano
2 cups faux chicken broth or vegetable broth
Salt, to taste
18 to 24 corn tortillas

  • Heat the oil in large sauce pan and add the onion, peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the vegetarian chicken and continue cooking for 3 more minutes.
  • Blend the crushed tomatoes, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and oregano in a blender and pour the mixture into a pan. Bring to a boil and add the broth. Cover the pan and simmer over medium heat about 25 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
  • Wrap the tortillas in a damp cloth, place in the oven, and heat through, until soft, under low heat.
  • Strain the sauce and place 1 Tbsp. of the mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly and use a toothpick to hold it. Repeat for the remaining tortillas.
  • In a medium sauté pan, heat enough oil to cover the taquitos two-thirds deep. Fry the taquitos for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel.
  • Remove the toothpicks and serve with your favorite salsa, nondairy sour cream, and guacamole on the side.

Makes 8 to 10 servings

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