Alex Stupak prepares this outstanding Yucatán-style dip (called sikil pak in Mayan) by pureeing pumpkin seeds (sikil) with roasted tomatoes (pak), garlic and chile. Typically served with tortilla chips, it also makes a healthy vegan accompaniment for vegetables.
Slideshow: Great Vegan Recipes
Recipe from Food & Wine America's Greatest New Cooks
How to Make It
Preheat a small cast-iron skillet or griddle. Add the tomatoes, garlic cloves and habanero and roast over high heat, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and charred in spots, about 12 minutes. Transfer to a plate; let cool.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, toast the pumpkin seeds over moderate heat, tossing, until lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the pumpkin seeds to a food processor and let cool completely. Pulse the seeds until a coarse puree forms, then transfer to a medium bowl.
Halve the habanero and remove the seeds. Peel the garlic and add it to the food processor along with the tomatoes, habanero and orange juice; puree until smooth. Stir the puree into the ground pumpkin seeds along with the onion, cilantro and cinnamon. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, season with salt and serve with tortilla chips.