Confessions of a Foodie

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Showing posts with label Pumpkin Crisp. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pumpkin Crisp. Show all posts

Monday, April 13, 2020

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Here are six yummy vegetarian recipes to start off your week, including Winter Squash & Wild Mushroom Curry and Vegan Vanilla Maple Banana Bread. Enjoy!

VEGAN VANILLA MAPLE BANANA BREAD

This is by Girl Versus Dough on tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “A delicious, healthy (and dairy-free and egg-free!) take on a quick bread favorite.”

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 1/2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

3 very ripe bananas, peeled and smashed

1/2 cup oil (I prefer vegetable)

2 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 1/2 tablespoons water

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flours, brown sugar, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.

In a separate medium bowl, combine vanilla, bananas, oil, maple syrup and water.

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

Pour batter into a lightly greased 8 x 4-inch loaf pan. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Wait at least 15 minutes to remove bread from loaf pan. Allow to cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing or serving.

PUMPKIN CRISP

This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”

Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cooking spray, for pan

3 eggs

1 c. granulated sugar

1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée

2/3 c. heavy cream

2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

For the Topping

1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar

Pinch kosher salt

3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes

1 c. chopped pecans

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.

In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.

In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.

Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.

Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

AFRICAN-STYLE SWEET POTATO AND BUTTERNUT SQUASH STEW

This recipe comes from Publix.

Servings: 8; Total Time: 3 hours, 10 minutes; Active Time: 10 minutes

To view this recipe online, click here.

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes

1 can chickpeas (garbanzos), (15–16 oz), drained

1 (14.5-oz) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained

8 oz prediced bell pepper mix (1 1/2 cups)

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon chunky garlic paste

2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or stock)

1 package fresh (or frozen) prediced butternut squash (15–16 oz)

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Directions

Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Drain chickpeas. Place in slow cooker: sweet potatoes, chickpeas, tomatoes, bell peppers, seasoning, garlic paste, and broth; cover and cook on HIGH for 2 1/2–3 hours (or LOW for 4–6 hours) or until potatoes are tender.

Stir in squash during last 30 minutes of cook time. Chop cilantro and peanuts.

Remove 1 cup of liquid from stew and whisk with peanut butter until blended. Stir peanut butter mixture into stew. Serve topped with cilantro and peanuts.

PASTA WITH PUMPKIN SAUCE

This is from The Mayo Clinic diet.

Serves 4.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat bow-tie pasta

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced

1 cup fat-free low-sodium vegetable broth

1 can pumpkin puree (15 ounces)

1/2 teaspoon sage, rubbed

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon parsley, dried or 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions.

Meanwhile, place a large skillet over medium to high heat. Add olive oil, onion, garlic and mushrooms. Cook about 10 minutes or until onion is soft.

Add broth, pumpkin, sage, salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer about 8 minutes. When pasta is finished cooking, drain and add it to the pumpkin mixture.

Stir to combine ingredients and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 220; Total fat: 4 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Total carbohydrate: 39 g; Dietary fiber: 7 g; Protein: 10 g

WINTER SQUASH AND WILD MUSHROOM CURRY

This is from The New York Times cooking e-newsletter, and begins, “This is comfort food, Indian-style, adapted from a recipe by Madhur Jaffrey. It's also vegan, and perfect for a fall evening. Use a mixture of cultivated mushrooms; they come in all shapes and sizes. Look for royal trumpets, a large, meaty type of oyster mushroom; shiitakes, and small portobellos. Use some wild mushrooms too, if you can, like golden chanterelles, lobster or hen of the woods. You can make this as spicy as you wish, but be sure to include some cayenne and green chile, to complement and play off the creamy coconut milk sauce. Serve with basmati rice, rice noodles or mashed potatoes.”

Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 30 minutes.

This was featured in “A Warming Curry for Fall”, and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

10 ounces butternut or other winter squash, peeled and diced in 1/2-inch cubes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 or 2 small whole green chiles, such as jalapeño or serrano

3 medium shallots or 1 small onion, finely diced

1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

Handful of fresh or frozen curry leaves, optional

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon ground coriander

Pinch of cayenne

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

1 pound mushrooms, preferably a mix of cultivated and wild, trimmed and sliced 1/8-inch thick

3/4 cup coconut milk

2 tablespoons lime juice

Cilantro sprigs, for garnish

Preparation

In a wide skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add squash cubes in one layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, letting cubes brown slightly, then flip and cook for 2 minutes more. Use a slotted spoon to lift squash out, and set aside.

Cut a lengthwise slit in each chile to open it, but leave whole. (This allows the heat and flavor of the chile to release into the sauce without making it too spicy.)

Add shallots to skillet, salt lightly and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds and curry leaves and let sizzle for 30 seconds, then add garlic, coriander, cayenne, turmeric and chiles. Stir well and cook for 30 seconds more.

Add mushrooms to pan, season with salt and toss to coat. Continue to cook, stirring, until mushrooms begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

Return squash cubes to pan, stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Lower heat to medium and simmer for another 5 minutes. If mixture looks dry, thin with a little water. Taste and season with salt.

Just before serving, stir in lime juice. Transfer to a warm serving dish and garnish with cilantro leaves.

CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT BARS

This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter, and begins, “A little-known fact: Creamy chocolate-covered peppermint patties are not hard to make at home. Here, the minty filling and chocolate coating are layered onto a cocoa-imbued shortbread base, which adds a cookie crunch to each bite. These keep well, so you can make them a week ahead; store airtight at room temperature. They also freeze well. The coconut oil makes the chocolate coating slightly shinier and a little more brittle in a good way, so use it if you have it. But if you don't have it on hand, you can omit it.”

Yield: 36 squares; Time: 1 hour 10 minutes, plus chilling.

This was featured in“Peppermint Patties Worthy Of Dessert” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Shortbread:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cupgranulated sugar

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)

For the Peppermint Filling and Chocolate Top:

3 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 1/4 teaspoons/10 milliliters peppermint extract, or to taste

9 ounces bittersweet chocolate (at least 60 percent cocoa solids), chopped

1/2 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)

Preparation

Heat oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing 2 inches of paper to hang over the sides.

Make the shortbread: In a food processor, pulse together flour, sugar, cocoa powder and salt. Add butter and process until a smooth dough forms. Press dough evenly into the bottom of prepared baking pan. Bake until firm to the touch, and sides of the crust are beginning to pull away from the pan, about 25 minutes. Cool completely.

Make the filling: In a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine confectioners' sugar, butter, cream and peppermint extract. Beat until mixture forms a thick, smooth paste. Press filling evenly over shortbread. Chill to set the filling for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.

Use parchment paper overhang to lift the shortbread and peppermint out of the baking pan and onto a cutting board. Cut into 1 1/2-inch squares (there should be 36 squares). Place squares on a rack placed over a parchment-lined sheet tray, and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.

In the top of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt 7 ounces chocolate, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Remove from heat, add remaining 2 ounces chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.

Add coconut oil, if using, and stir the chocolate until smooth. Spoon 1 teaspoon chocolate on top of a cut peppermint square, using the back of the spoon to spread chocolate to the edges. Be sure to fully cover the top of the square with chocolate. (Leave the sides exposed, though it's O.K. if some of the chocolate drips down.) Repeat with remaining squares.

Let squares sit at room temperature until chocolate is set, at least 1 hour.

Monday, January 14, 2019

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include One-Pot Chicken Lo Mein and Pumpkin Crisp. Enjoy!

GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE

This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.

“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*

1 cup chopped onion

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons salt

1 1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained

16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato

1/4 cup flour

1 green bell pepper, chopped

4 tablespoons butter, melted

2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese

Directions

Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.

Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.

Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.

*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.

FOUR-FAVOR SHEET PAN PIE

This yumminess comes from the Food Network, and begins, “A clever sheet pan hack gives you quadruple the Thanksgiving pie fun (and saves the time and effort of making four individual pies). Apple, cherry, pumpkin and pecan coexist peacefully in one giant slab that feeds a crowd.”

Level: Intermediate; Total: 2 hr; Active: 1 hr; Yield: 16 to 18 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Crusts:

Two 14.1-ounce boxes refrigerated rolled pie crust (4 crusts total)

All-purpose flour, for dusting

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1/4 cup turbinado sugar

Apple Pie:

2 pounds mixed apples (such as Granny Smith, Gala and McIntosh), peeled, cored and sliced 1/4-inch thick

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 teaspoons all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Kosher salt

Sour Cherry Pie:

2 cups drained jarred sour cherries, plus 3/4 cup juice from the jar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Pumpkin Pie:

1 1/3 cups canned pure pumpkin puree

2/3 cup evaporated milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 large egg

Pecan Pie:

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup light corn syrup

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 large eggs

Kosher salt

3/4 cup roasted pecan halves

Directions

For the crusts: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Unroll 3 of the pie crusts on a lightly floured work surface. Stack them on top of each other. Roll out the thick, layered dough to a 15-by-21-inch rectangle. Press into a rimmed baking sheet so that the crust comes up the sides and hangs over slightly. This will be the bottom crust. Chill until ready to use, at least 30 minutes.

Use the remaining crust for the top of the pie. Unroll it on a lightly floured work surface and roll it to a 14-by-18-inch rectangle. Cut the dough in half so you have two 7-by-9-inch pieces. One half will be the top crust for the apple portion of the pie. Cut the other half into 1-inch diagonal strips to use for the lattice on the cherry pie. Place the rectangle and strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill until ready to use.

For the apple pie: Toss the apples in a medium bowl with the sugar and lemon juice. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour, cinnamon and a pinch of salt and cook until thickened, about 1 minute more. Cool completely.

For the sour cherry pie: Place the cherries in a medium bowl. Whisk 1/4 cup cherry juice with the cornstarch in a small saucepan until completely smooth. Add the remaining cherry juice and sugar and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until thick and glossy, about 30 seconds. Pour the sauce over the cherries and gently fold to combine. Cool completely.

For the pumpkin pie: Whisk together the pumpkin, evaporated milk, sugar, pumpkin pie spice and the egg and in a medium bowl until smooth. Set aside.

For the pecan pie: Whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, vanilla, eggs and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl until smooth. Fold in the pecans and set aside.

Once all fillings are made, begin assembling the pie. Remove both baking sheets with dough from the refrigerator.

Visualize the sheet pan is divided in half lengthwise and then crosswise so you have 4 equal quadrants. Each quadrant will hold a different pie filling. Prick the bottom crust all over with a fork.

Add the pie fillings in this order: Add the apple pie filling to the upper left quadrant of the crust; spread it to cover a 7-by-9-inch rectangle. Moving counter clockwise, pour the pumpkin filling right under the apple pie filling and spread it the same size as the apple filling. Spread out the cherry filling next to the pumpkin filling. Fill the top right empty space with the pecan filling.

Cover the apple pie quadrant with the reserved rectangle of dough. Lay the pie strips out diagonally over the cherry pie quadrant. Press any remaining strips of dough around the edge of the pie to thicken the rim. Crimp the edge of the pie, making sure to incorporate and crimp together the dough from the apple quadrant. Brush the edges and the dough on top of the pie with egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Cut decorative slits in the apple pie crust.

Bake until all pies are set and the crust on the apple pie and cherry pie is golden brown and crisp, 55 minutes to 1 hour 5 minutes.

PUMPKIN CRISP

This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”

Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cooking spray, for pan

3 eggs

1 c. granulated sugar

1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée

2/3 c. heavy cream

2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

For the Topping

1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar

Pinch kosher salt

3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes

1 c. chopped pecans

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.

In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.

In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.

Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.

Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

ONE-POT CHICKEN LO MEIN

This is from tbls. (Tablespoon), and begins, “Just when you thought chicken lo mein couldn’t get any better, we went and figured out a way to make it easier using just one pot. Now there’s basically no excuse not to make it at home whenever the mood strikes.”

Prep Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 60 minutes; Servings: 6

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 package (20 oz) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut in 1-inch cubes

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 oz white mushrooms, thinly sliced

6 green onions, thinly sliced on the bias, whites and greens separated

1 carton (32 oz) Progresso™ reduced sodium chicken broth

1 cup coarsely shredded carrots

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1/4 cup oyster sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon ground ginger

8 oz uncooked spaghetti (from 16-oz package), broken in half

Directions

In 5-quart Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and salt; cook 5 to 7 minutes without moving, until browned on first side. Stir; cook 2 to 4 minutes longer, stirring frequently, until chicken is no longer pink in center. Using slotted spoon, transfer to medium bowl; set aside.

Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to skillet, then stir in mushrooms and green onion whites. Cook over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened. Stir in broth, carrots, cabbage, oyster sauce, soy sauce and ginger. Heat to boiling over high heat. Stir in chicken and spaghetti; return to simmering, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered 14 to 16 minutes, stirring frequently, until spaghetti is cooked through and sauce is thickened.

Top with green onion greens.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken dry before adding to hot oil.

Short on time? Use purchased preshredded carrots and red cabbage.

INA GARTEN'S MAPLE-ROASTED CARROT SALAD

This recipe, from ‘Cooking for Jeffrey,’ by Ina Garten, was posted on Tasting Table.

To view this online, click here.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds carrots, preferably with leafy tops

Good olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup pure Grade A maple syrup

2/3 cup dried cranberries

2/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (2 oranges)

3 tablespoons sherry wine vinegar

2 garlic cloves, grated on a Microplane

6 ounces baby arugula

6 ounces goat cheese, such as Montrachet, medium-diced

2/3 cup roasted, salted Marcona almonds

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Trim and scrub the carrots. If the carrots are more than 1 inch in diameter, cut them in half lengthwise. Cut the carrots in large diagonal slices 1 inch wide × 2 inches long (they will shrink when they roast) and place in a medium bowl with 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Toss well and transfer to two sheet pans. (If you use just one, they’ll steam instead of roasting.) Roast for 20 minutes, tossing once, until the carrots are tender. Transfer all the carrots to one of the sheet pans, add the maple syrup, toss, and roast for 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges are caramelized. Watch them carefully! Toss with a metal spatula and set aside for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine the cranberries and orange juice in a small saucepan, bring to a simmer, then set aside for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the arugula in a large bowl and add the carrots, cranberries (with their liquid), goat cheese, almonds, and the vinaigrette. Toss with large spoons, sprinkle with salt, and serve at room temperature.

30 MINUTE CHILI WITH GROUND BEEF AND BEANS

This comes from Diana Rattray, Southern food guide at The Spruce. Diana wrote, “This ground beef chili is hearty and delicious, and it takes only 30 minutes from start to finish! Don't feel overwhelmed by the list of ingredients, many are suggested toppings.

“The ground beef is quickly browned, then it is combined with a spice mixture, beans, and tomatoes for a quick and easy meal for a busy day. It's also easy on the budget.

“Make a pan of cornbread to go with the chili, along with a salad or slaw, or serve it with hot cooked rice and warm tortillas.

“If you're making this for a party game day gathering, offer several toppings with the chili and add a bowl of tortilla chips to the menu. The recipe is easily doubled.”

Total Time: 30 mins; Prep: 5 mins; Cook: 25 mins; Yield: 6 Servings

To view this recipe online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Seasoning Mix:

3 tablespoons chili powder

2 tablespoons onion (dried minced)

1 1/2 teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Chili:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (at least 85% lean)

1 can/14.5 ounces diced tomatoes

1 can/14.5 ounces diced tomatoes with mild green chile peppers*

1 can/8 ounces tomato sauce

1 can/15 to 16 ounces black beans (undrained)

salt to taste

Optional: shredded cheddar, cheddar-jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses

Directions

In a small bowl or cup, combine the chili powder with the dried minced onion, cumin, oregano, sugar, garlic powder, and the black and cayenne peppers. Blend well and set aside.

In a Dutch oven or large sauté pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef, turning and breaking up with a spatula as it cooks.

Drain the ground beef well. Return the beef to the pan over medium heat. Add the chili seasoning mix and stir to blend.

Add the 2 cans of tomatoes, tomato sauce, and undrained black beans. Stir to blend ingredients.

Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.

Taste and add salt, as needed.

Topping Suggestions: sour cream, chopped green onion, chopped red onion, shredded lettuce, cilantro, guacamole, diced tomatoes

Serve with a Tex-Mex cornbread or classic Southern cornbread, biscuits, crackers, or tortilla chips, along with shredded cheese and your favorite toppings.

*If you don't have diced tomatoes with chile peppers, use regular diced tomatoes and add mild green chile peppers. Or, use about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of chunky mild to medium salsa in place of the second can of tomatoes.

Thursday, January 3, 2019

Baked Goodies - Double-Post Thursday

Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Today's double post deals with Baked Goodies, including Chocolate Peppermint Bars and Salted Caramel Banana Bread. Enjoy!

CINNAMON BAKED DOUGHNUTS

This is from Ina Garten of the Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa.

Level: Easy; Total: 35 min; Active: 15 min; Yield: 12 doughnuts

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Baking spray with flour, such as Baker's Joy

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 extra-large egg, lightly beaten

1 1/4 cups whole milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the topping:

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray 2 doughnut pans well.

Into a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.

Spoon the batter into the baking pans, filling each one a little more than three-quarters full. Bake for 17 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then tap the doughnuts out onto a sheet pan.

For the topping, melt the 8 tablespoons of butter in an 8-inch saute pan. Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Dip each doughnut first in the butter and then in the cinnamon sugar, either on one side or both sides.

SALTED CARAMEL BANANA BREAD

This is from tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “Banana bread is delicious all by itself, but add a layer of salted caramel to the top and it's just plain decadent!”

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 0 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf

To view t his online, click here.

Ingredients

2 whole eggs

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup oil

1/3 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 3/4 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 ripe bananas

20 unwrapped caramels

2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray. Add eggs, sugar, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla to a large bowl. Whisk until combined.

Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients.

Mash bananas with a fork and add to the batter. Mix until just combined.

Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack.

Make the glaze by melting caramels and milk in the microwave for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Poor over bread and sprinkle with sea salt.

PUMPKIN CRISP

This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”

Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cooking spray, for pan

3 eggs

1 c. granulated sugar

1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée

2/3 c. heavy cream

2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

For the Topping

1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar

Pinch kosher salt

3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes

1 c. chopped pecans

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.

In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.

In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.

Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.

Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

VEGAN VANILLA MAPLE BANANA BREAD

This is by Girl Versus Dough on tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “A delicious, healthy (and dairy-free and egg-free!) take on a quick bread favorite.”

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 1/2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

3 very ripe bananas, peeled and smashed

1/2 cup oil (I prefer vegetable)

2 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 1/2 tablespoons water

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flours, brown sugar, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.

In a separate medium bowl, combine vanilla, bananas, oil, maple syrup and water.

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

Pour batter into a lightly greased 8 x 4-inch loaf pan. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Wait at least 15 minutes to remove bread from loaf pan. Allow to cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing or serving.

CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT BARS

This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter, and begins, “A little-known fact: Creamy chocolate-covered peppermint patties are not hard to make at home. Here, the minty filling and chocolate coating are layered onto a cocoa-imbued shortbread base, which adds a cookie crunch to each bite. These keep well, so you can make them a week ahead; store airtight at room temperature. They also freeze well. The coconut oil makes the chocolate coating slightly shinier and a little more brittle in a good way, so use it if you have it. But if you don't have it on hand, you can omit it.”

Yield: 36 squares; Time: 1 hour 10 minutes, plus chilling.

This was featured in“Peppermint Patties Worthy Of Dessert” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Shortbread:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cupgranulated sugar

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)

For the Peppermint Filling and Chocolate Top:

3 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 1/4 teaspoons/10 milliliters peppermint extract, or to taste

9 ounces bittersweet chocolate (at least 60 percent cocoa solids), chopped

1/2 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)

Preparation

Heat oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing 2 inches of paper to hang over the sides.

Make the shortbread: In a food processor, pulse together flour, sugar, cocoa powder and salt. Add butter and process until a smooth dough forms. Press dough evenly into the bottom of prepared baking pan. Bake until firm to the touch, and sides of the crust are beginning to pull away from the pan, about 25 minutes. Cool completely.

Make the filling: In a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine confectioners' sugar, butter, cream and peppermint extract. Beat until mixture forms a thick, smooth paste. Press filling evenly over shortbread. Chill to set the filling for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.

Use parchment paper overhang to lift the shortbread and peppermint out of the baking pan and onto a cutting board. Cut into 1 1/2-inch squares (there should be 36 squares). Place squares on a rack placed over a parchment-lined sheet tray, and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.

In the top of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt 7 ounces chocolate, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Remove from heat, add remaining 2 ounces chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.

Add coconut oil, if using, and stir the chocolate until smooth. Spoon 1 teaspoon chocolate on top of a cut peppermint square, using the back of the spoon to spread chocolate to the edges. Be sure to fully cover the top of the square with chocolate. (Leave the sides exposed, though it's O.K. if some of the chocolate drips down.) Repeat with remaining squares.

Let squares sit at room temperature until chocolate is set, at least 1 hour.

POUND CAKE

This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup sugar

1 cup butter, unsalted and softened

5 eggs

1/4 cup sour cream

1/4 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 1/4 cups flour

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

Sunday, October 21, 2018

Baked Goodies

Is there anything yummier or better at making the house smell good than baked goodies? Probably not.

Here are six yummy baked goods to help make good memories, including Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts and Pumpkin Crisp. Enjoy!

CRANBERRY PUMPKIN BREAD

This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 2 loaves, 16 servings each.

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups flour

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

dash salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1 cup egg substitute or egg whites

1 can whole berry cranberry sauce

1 can pumpkin

1/3 cup applesauce applesauce

1 tablespoon grated orange peel

2 tablespoons chopped nuts, optional

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray two loaf pans with vegetable spray.

Mix flour, brown sugar and spices in large bowl. In another, mix together all but nuts until well blended. Stir into flour mixture until moistened. Pour into pans and sprinkle with nuts, if desired.

Bake 55-60 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes, then remove from pan.

ORANGE RICOTTA BARS

This is from Michelle Stark, food editor for the Tampa Bay Times. She also has her own site, Stark From Scratch.

Makes about 12 bars.

To view this online, click here.

5 tablespoons unsalted butter

8 ounces ricotta cheese

1/2 cup granulated sugar

Zest from 1 orange (save a pinch for the glaze)

Juice from half of that orange

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

2 tablespoons milk

Pinch of orange zest

1 cup confectioners' sugar, more if needed

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Fresh mint, for garnish

Orange slices, for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a square baking pan (I used a 9- by 9-inch pan) with cooking spray.

Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl; should take between 20 and 30 seconds. Add to a large mixing bowl. Add the sugar, orange zest and juice, and mix. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until the batter is smooth.

Add in the flour, baking powder and salt, and gently mix until everything is incorporated. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 40 minutes. You can start checking after 30-35 minutes, but mine took the full 40. The bars will be slightly brown around the edges, but don't let them get too brown. Make sure a toothpick or knife inserted into the center of the bars comes out clean.

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, gently run a knife or spatula around the edge of the pan to loosen bars, then flip pan over carefully so the bars wiggle out. Let bars cool on a baking rack for another 15 to 30 minutes, or until cool to the touch.

Meanwhile, make the glaze: Mix all glaze ingredients in a small bowl, whisking to thoroughly combine. If very thin, add more confectioners' sugar. You want it somewhat runny; it won't be thick like frosting.

When the bars are cool, cut into 10 to 12 squares. Gently spread about 1 tablespoon of glaze on each square (it will be drippy; that's okay). Top each one with a fresh mint sprig and orange slice. Serve immediately, or refrigerate but let come to room temperature before serving.

FOUR-FAVOR SHEET PAN PIE

This yumminess comes from the Food Network, and begins, “A clever sheet pan hack gives you quadruple the Thanksgiving pie fun (and saves the time and effort of making four individual pies). Apple, cherry, pumpkin and pecan coexist peacefully in one giant slab that feeds a crowd.”

Level: Intermediate; Total: 2 hr; Active: 1 hr; Yield: 16 to 18 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Crusts:

Two 14.1-ounce boxes refrigerated rolled pie crust (4 crusts total)

All-purpose flour, for dusting

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1/4 cup turbinado sugar

Apple Pie:

2 pounds mixed apples (such as Granny Smith, Gala and McIntosh), peeled, cored and sliced 1/4-inch thick

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 teaspoons all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Kosher salt

Sour Cherry Pie:

2 cups drained jarred sour cherries, plus 3/4 cup juice from the jar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Pumpkin Pie:

1 1/3 cups canned pure pumpkin puree

2/3 cup evaporated milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 large egg

Pecan Pie:

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup light corn syrup

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 large eggs

Kosher salt

3/4 cup roasted pecan halves

Directions

For the crusts: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Unroll 3 of the pie crusts on a lightly floured work surface. Stack them on top of each other. Roll out the thick, layered dough to a 15-by-21-inch rectangle. Press into a rimmed baking sheet so that the crust comes up the sides and hangs over slightly. This will be the bottom crust. Chill until ready to use, at least 30 minutes.

Use the remaining crust for the top of the pie. Unroll it on a lightly floured work surface and roll it to a 14-by-18-inch rectangle. Cut the dough in half so you have two 7-by-9-inch pieces. One half will be the top crust for the apple portion of the pie. Cut the other half into 1-inch diagonal strips to use for the lattice on the cherry pie. Place the rectangle and strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill until ready to use.

For the apple pie: Toss the apples in a medium bowl with the sugar and lemon juice. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour, cinnamon and a pinch of salt and cook until thickened, about 1 minute more. Cool completely.

For the sour cherry pie: Place the cherries in a medium bowl. Whisk 1/4 cup cherry juice with the cornstarch in a small saucepan until completely smooth. Add the remaining cherry juice and sugar and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until thick and glossy, about 30 seconds. Pour the sauce over the cherries and gently fold to combine. Cool completely.

For the pumpkin pie: Whisk together the pumpkin, evaporated milk, sugar, pumpkin pie spice and the egg and in a medium bowl until smooth. Set aside.

For the pecan pie: Whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, vanilla, eggs and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl until smooth. Fold in the pecans and set aside.

Once all fillings are made, begin assembling the pie. Remove both baking sheets with dough from the refrigerator.

Visualize the sheet pan is divided in half lengthwise and then crosswise so you have 4 equal quadrants. Each quadrant will hold a different pie filling. Prick the bottom crust all over with a fork.

Add the pie fillings in this order: Add the apple pie filling to the upper left quadrant of the crust; spread it to cover a 7-by-9-inch rectangle. Moving counter clockwise, pour the pumpkin filling right under the apple pie filling and spread it the same size as the apple filling. Spread out the cherry filling next to the pumpkin filling. Fill the top right empty space with the pecan filling.

Cover the apple pie quadrant with the reserved rectangle of dough. Lay the pie strips out diagonally over the cherry pie quadrant. Press any remaining strips of dough around the edge of the pie to thicken the rim. Crimp the edge of the pie, making sure to incorporate and crimp together the dough from the apple quadrant. Brush the edges and the dough on top of the pie with egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Cut decorative slits in the apple pie crust.

Bake until all pies are set and the crust on the apple pie and cherry pie is golden brown and crisp, 55 minutes to 1 hour 5 minutes.

CINNAMON BAKED DOUGHNUTS

This is from Ina Garten of the Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa.

Level: Easy; Total: 35 min; Active: 15 min; Yield: 12 doughnuts

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Baking spray with flour, such as Baker's Joy

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 extra-large egg, lightly beaten

1 1/4 cups whole milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the topping:

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray 2 doughnut pans well.

Into a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.

Spoon the batter into the baking pans, filling each one a little more than three-quarters full. Bake for 17 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then tap the doughnuts out onto a sheet pan.

For the topping, melt the 8 tablespoons of butter in an 8-inch saute pan. Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Dip each doughnut first in the butter and then in the cinnamon sugar, either on one side or both sides.

PUMPKIN CRISP

This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”

Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cooking spray, for pan

3 eggs

1 c. granulated sugar

1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée

2/3 c. heavy cream

2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

For the Topping

1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar

Pinch kosher salt

3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes

1 c. chopped pecans

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.

In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.

In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.

Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.

Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

VEGAN VANILLA MAPLE BANANA BREAD

This is by Girl Versus Dough on tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “A delicious, healthy (and dairy-free and egg-free!) take on a quick bread favorite.”

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 1/2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

3 very ripe bananas, peeled and smashed

1/2 cup oil (I prefer vegetable)

2 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 1/2 tablespoons water

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flours, brown sugar, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.

In a separate medium bowl, combine vanilla, bananas, oil, maple syrup and water.

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

Pour batter into a lightly greased 8 x 4-inch loaf pan. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Wait at least 15 minutes to remove bread from loaf pan. Allow to cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing or serving.