Method
- If using dry aduki beans, soak 1 cup beans in water for 6 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse with fresh water.
- Place in a saucepan, with lid on, with about 4 cups water. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 50-55 minutes (beans are ready when they can easily be mashed).
- Preheat oven to 220ºC or 200ºC if fan-forced.
- Roast beetroot and sweet potato tossed with olive oil and garlic for 45-60 minutes (depending on oven) until beetroot is cooked and sweet potato slightly golden.
- Toss carrots with olive oil and bake for about 30 minutes, until browned and tender. (Vegetables can even be cooked ahead of time.)
- Cook the rice according to general instructions (2 cups rice in 3 cups water).
- Bring to boil in a saucepan, with lid on, and simmer 15-20 minutes (when water is absorbed).
- Add the Turmeric and stir through the cooked rice – allow to stand 5-10 minutes.
- To prepare asparagus, hold each spear by the middle and bend the base with the other hand until the woody part snaps off. Steam for 5 minutes, until tender but still vibrant green.
- In a large bowl, place warm rice and add the parsley, purple onion, pepitas and pecans and toss well. Add cooked or canned beans and gently toss through. Place in a large flat salad bowl. Arrange baked vegetables and asparagus on top.
- For the dressing, place all of the ingredients in a jar and shake well. Dress just prior to serving and gently toss to combine. This makes a large salad and is a complete meal.
- It will serve 6 people as a meal, or 8 as a side dish combined with additional protein such as chicken, boiled eggs, fish or tofu.
ENJOY!