iEat Green - Rock ’n Renew - 10/18/12

Rock ’n Renew is a non-profit organization that helps musicians, students, and their communities live and act in sustainable ways. Recognizing the connection between the health of culture and the health of the planet, Rock’n Renew uses art and music to generate excitement about green solutions as they custom-design eco-blueprints for concert tours, schools, businesses, and events. Since its inception in 2006, Rock ’n Renew has brought the message of sustainability to thousands of people through rock shows, festivals, lectures, and installations.

Founded by musician Jonny Dubowsky, Rock ’n Renew is committed to the practical pursuit of environmental health and sustainability. As Jonny’s band, Jonny Lives!, met with increasing success, they began frequent tours of over 20,000 miles each. Concerned about fuel consumption and it’s impact on the planet, Jonny researched bio-diesel as an alternative to gasoline and transformed the group’s tours into carbon-neutral events powered by french-fry grease from fast food restaurants. From there, Rock ’n Renew grew into a multifaceted organization with resources and connections to create  environmental change. With an unapologetic rock-culture sensibility and a wide playlist of innovative events, Rock ’n Renew puts environmental responsibility center-stage, with a unique artistic edge that helps to inspire students to repair their local food and ecosystems.

Miso Marinaded Tofu Cutlets with Leek Purée

1 cup white miso

½ cup sugar

½ cup sake

½ cup mirin

1 block, extra firm, organic tofu

organic canola oil for frying.

Olive oil

2 leeks, washed, and chopped,

1 Tbs. Aji Mirin

Salt to taste

Slice tofu into 8 cutlets. Lay out on towel, put another towel on top and press down to remove water. Fry the cutlets in a heavy skillet until golden brown. Meanwhile, mix first 4 ingredients in food processor and pour over tofu cutlets. Turn tofu over, to cover with marinade on all sides. Marinate overnight, or up to 2 days.

Before serving, cover bottom of heavy skillet with olive oil. Sauté leeks in olive oil until soft, about 10 minutes. Add Aji Mirin, and cook another 5 minutes. Puree leeks in Food Processor until smooth. Place tofu cutlets on broiler pan and broil for a few minutes, till miso becomes carmelized. Spread pureed leeks on top of tofu and broil a few more minutes. Finish cooking in 375* oven for 10 minutes.