Confessions of a Foodie

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Showing posts with label Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Show all posts

Thursday, September 5, 2019

Diabetic Thursday

It's Diabetic Thursday, time to check out how to cook healthy for any diabetics in your life. Today's six yummy recipes include Steak Tacos and Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Enjoy!

MEXICAN TURKEY FRITTATA

This recipe begins, “This flavorful egg and turkey frittata recipe will wake up your taste buds.”

Makes 9 servings

Source: Jennie-O

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1339.shtml

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 cups sliced small mushrooms

1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped

3 cups egg substitute or 12 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 cup shredded low-fat Mexican blend cheese

1/3 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Heat oven to 350F.

Mist 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Sprinkle with cumin; stir to mix.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, green pepper, mushrooms and chipotle peppers.

Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are cooked.

In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro until well mixed.

Stir in turkey, cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions.

Spoon mixture into baking dish.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until set. Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

HUNGARIAN BEEF GOULASH

This recipe begins, “This streamlined goulash skips the step of browning the beef, and instead coats it in a spice crust to give it a rich mahogany hue. This saucy dish is a natural served over whole-wheat egg noodles. Or, for something different, try prepared potato gnocchi or spaetzle.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/5002-hungarian-beef-goulash

Total Time: 4 1/2-8 hours

Ingredients

2 pounds beef stew meat, (such as chuck), trimmed and cubed

2 teaspoons caraway seeds

1 1/2-2 tablespoons sweet or hot paprika, (or a mixture of the two), preferably Hungarian (see Ingredient Note)

1/4 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 large or 2 medium onions, chopped

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes

1 14-ounce can reduced-sodium beef broth

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 bay leaves

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months. | Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

8 servings, about 1 cup each

Place beef in a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Crush caraway seeds with the bottom of a saucepan. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in paprika, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the beef with the spice mixture and toss to coat well. Top with onion and bell pepper.

Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic in a medium saucepan; bring to a simmer. Pour over the beef and vegetables. Place bay leaves on top. Cover and cook until the beef is very tender, 4 to 4 1/2 hours on high or 7 to 7 1/2 hours on low.

Discard the bay leaves; skim or blot any visible fat from the surface of the stew. Add the cornstarch mixture to the stew and cook on high, stirring 2 or 3 times, until slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve sprinkled with parsley.

Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months.

Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

Ingredient Note: Paprika specifically labeled as “Hungarian” is worth seeking out for this dish because it delivers a fuller, richer flavor than regular or Spanish paprika. Find it at specialty-foods store or online at HungarianDeli.com and penzeys.com .

Nutritional Facts: Servings 8; Per serving: Calories 177; Carbohydrates 7 g; Fat 5 g; Saturated Fat 2 g; Monounsaturated Fat 2 g; Protein 25 g; Cholesterol 49 mg; Dietary Fiber 1 g; Potassium 288 mg; Sodium 340 mg; Added Sugars 0 g; Exchanges: 1 vegetable; 3 lean meat; Carbohydrate Servings1/2; Vitamin C (40% daily value); Zinc (38% dv); Vitamin A (25% dv)

STEAK TACOS

This recipe begins, “Your slow cooker makes Mexican-style magic, turning flank steak fork-tender and infusing it with irresistible flavors for the best steak tacos you ever ate.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/2664-steak-tacos

Ingredients

1 lb raw lean flank steak (I use semi-frozen steak)

1 packet Taco Seasoning Mix

1 medium onion

4 oz chopped green chilies

1/2 cup (or more) sliced bell pepper

6 Corn tortillas

Directions

Cut steaks in half; rub with taco seasoning. Place in a crock pot coated with nonstick cooking spray. Top with onion, bell pepper and chilies. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or until meat is tender. Remove steaks and cool slightly; shred meat with two forks. Return to crock pot; heat through. Spoon about 1/2 cup meat mixture down the center of each tortilla. Top with cheese, tomato and sour cream. Fold ends and sides over filling.

Nutritional Facts: Servings 6; Yield 6 servings – 210 Calories; 9 g fat (48.1% calories from fat); 17 g Protein; 16 g Carbohydrate; 2 g Dietary Fiber; 39 mg Cholesterol; 186 mg Sodium.

CHOCOLATE FILLED CAKE ROLL

Servings: 12 one-inch slices

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/23.shtml

Ingredients

Cake:

5 eggs

1/2 cup sugar

3 packets of Sweet'n Low

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

Filling:

2 cups skim milk

1 package sugar-free chocolate instant pudding mix

Topping:

2 teaspoons sugar-free cocoa mix

Directions

Preheat oven to 400F.

Grease and line the bottom of a 10x15" jelly roll pan with waxed paper.

Beat eggs in a large bowl with electric mixer until fluffy.

Sprinkle sugar, Sweet'n Low and vanilla over eggs; continue beating for 2 minutes.

Sift flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together.

Sprinkle half the mixture over batter; fold in with spatula.

Repeat with remaining flour mixture.

Spread batter evenly in pan.

Bake on center rack in oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until cake is golden and springs back when lightly touched.

Arrange a towel on work surface and cover with wax or parchment paper.

Loosen edges of cake; unmold on paper.

Roll cake jelly roll style, using towel as a guide.

Leave cake rolled until it cools into jelly roll shape.

To make filling, blend milk with pudding mix according to package directions. Refrigerate pudding until it thickens.

Unroll cake, spread evenly with pudding, and reroll.

Lightly sprinkle sugar-free cocoa over the top to decorate.

Cut into 1" slices and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 122; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 197 mg; Cholesterol: 92 mg; Carbohydrates: 21 g; Exchanges: 1 Fruit; 1/2 Skim Milk; 1/2 Fat; 1 Starch

PUMPKIN-MAPLE CRUSTLESS CHEESECAKE

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple, and ginger with this crustless cheesecake.”

Servings: 12

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake).

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1279

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1279.shtml

Ingredients

3 (8 ounce) packages fat-free cream cheese, warmed in a microwave for 15 seconds

1/3 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

3 large eggs

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup low-fat maple or vanilla yogurt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon imitation maple or rum flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup thinly sliced crystallized ginger (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla.

Pour filling into prepared pan. Bake until outer rim is puffy and center is slightly wobbly, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side.

Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Refrigerate warm cake, uncovered, until cold. Then cover with foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or up to 3 days). Remove 1 hour before serving.

When ready to serve, carefully remove side of pan. Cut into 12 wedges with wet knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with crystallized ginger, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 16 g

BAKED FRENCH FRIES

Prep Time: 5 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 5 - Difficulty Level: 1

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/26.shtml

Ingredients

2 large potatoes

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/8 teaspoon paprika

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 F degree.

Peel potatoes and cut into slices 4 inches long and 1/4 inch wide; place in a bowl of iced water to crisp.

Just before cooking, turn onto paper towel and pat dry.

Spread pieces in one layer of a shallow baking pan.

Sprinkle with the vegetables oil.

Shake pan to spread oil evenly over potatoes.

Bake 30-40 minutes, turning frequently, until gold brown.

Empty potatoes onto paper towels.

Sprinkle with salt and paprika.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 93; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat

Saturday, October 27, 2018

Saturday Recipes - Halloween

It's the last Saturday before Halloween, the unofficial start of the holiday season.

I know, there are those who'll say that Halloween isn't technically a holiday, but its history does indicate a definite holiday twist to it.

Pumpkins: Orange, White, and Ugly Pumpkins



But whether you look at it as a holiday (whether celebrated as such or only in a historical sense) or as simply a fun evening of ghosts, pumpkins, and tons of candy, passed out to trick-or-treaters, it's still a good day. And in honor of Halloween, here are six yummy pumpkin recipes, including Pumpkin Pudding and Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Enjoy!

Scarecrow and Pumpkins



PUMPKIN SPICE GHOST CAKE

This is from Very Best Baking by Nestle, and begins, “Surprise your trick-or treaters with this hauntingly-good pumpkin spice cake with a rich cream cheese frosting.”

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cooking Time: 35 minutes; Skill level: Intermediate; Makes 12 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cake:

1 pkg. (18 oz.) spice or carrot cake mix

1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

3 large eggs

1/3 cup water

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Cream Cheese Frosting:

2 pkgs. (3 oz. each) cream cheeese, softened

2 tablespoons margarine or butter, softened

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar

*Black string licorice, NESTLÉ RAISINETS Milk Chocolate-Covered Raisins and Halloween candy corn (optional)

Instructions

For Cake:

Preheat oven to 350º F. Grease and flour two 8- or 9-inch-round cake pans.

Combine cake mix, pumpkin, eggs, water, vegetable oil and pumpkin pie spice in large mixer bowl until moistened. Beat for 2 minutes or until thoroughly mixed. Pour batter into prepared pans.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Frost with Cream Cheese Frosting.

For Cream Cheese Frosting:

Beat cream cheese, margarine and vanilla extract in small mixer bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar. Spread between layers and on top and side of cake.

To Garnish:

Form licorice strings into ghost shapes; press into side of frosted cake. Use Raisinets for eyes. Arrange candy corn between ghosts on side and around top edge of frosted cake.

Pumpkins



VEGAN PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE BROWNIES

This is from Alissa Saenz at Connoisseurus Veg, and starts off, “Fudgy chocolate chip-studded vegan brownies are topped with a layer of luscious cashew cheesecake to make this decadent and totally vegan fall dessert.”

Servings: 16; Calories 254 kcal; Author Alissa Saenz

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer

1/2 cup coconut oil, melted

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup organic granulated sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour

2/3 cup cocoa powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer

1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water 4-8 hours and drained

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/3 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 1/2 teaspoons powdered ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350° and lightly oil a 9 x 9 inch baking pan.

To make the brownie layer, stir the coconut oil, pumpkin puree, vanilla and sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Add the flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon and salt. Stir just until fully blended. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Spread the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and bake just until set in the center, 18-20 minutes.

While the brownie layer bakes, place all ingredients for the cheesecake layer except for the chocolate chips into the bowl of a food processor fitted with an S-blade. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Remove the blade or transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the chocolate chips.

When the brownie layer is set, remove the pan from the oven and spread the cheesecake mixture over top. Return the pan to the oven and bake until the cheesecake layer is set, 22-24 minutes.

Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely. Cut into 16 squares and serve.



PUMPKIN PATCH BROWNIES

This is from Lauren Miyashiro on Delish. The recipe begins, “The sweetest pumpkin patch you ever did see.”

Total Time: 1 hour; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 8 - 10.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 box brownie mix, plus required ingredients

1 c. white chocolate chips

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

green food coloring

1 can chocolate frosting

1 c. crushed oreos

Pumpkin candies

Directions

Preheat oven to 350° and line a 9-x-13” pan with parchment paper then grease with cooking spray. Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until a toothpick has moist crumbs, 28 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely.

In a small bowl, combine white chocolate chips, vegetable oil and green food coloring. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted. Stir until smooth then transfer to a small ziplock bag and cut the tip of one corner to pipe.

Spread chocolate frosting over the brownies, then sprinkle with crushed Oreos. Using the green chocolate, pipe vines over the surface of the brownies, then scatter pumpkin candies on top of the brownies.

Slice into squares and serve.

It's the Great Pumpkin! - Pumpkins in front of Earth Fare in Seminole, Florida.



CHEESECAKE-STUFFED PUMPKIN BREAD

This is from The Food Network, and begins, “Everyone's favorite fall quick bread hides a decadent surprise inside -- a rich swirl of cheesecake.”

Total: 3 hr 45 min; Active: 25 min; Yield: 1 loaf; Level: Easy

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cheesecake Swirl:

One 8-ounce package cream cheese, at room temperature

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup sour cream

1 large egg

Pumpkin Bread:

Nonstick cooking spray

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the pan (see Cook's Note)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 large egg

Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Directions

For the cheesecake swirl: Position an oven rack in the bottom third of the oven and preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Combine the cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream and egg in a large bowl and beat with a mixer until well combined; set aside.

For the pumpkin bread: Generously spray a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray and dust with flour. Whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl and set aside. Whisk together the granulated sugar and pumpkin puree in a large bowl, then whisk in the oil, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla and egg. Whisk in the flour mixture until just combined.

Reserve 1 cup of the pumpkin batter. Spread the remaining batter in the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin batter, then put the reserved cup pumpkin batter in a line down the center of the pan. Insert the tip of a paring knife into the batter and drag it through and up to swirl 5 to 6 times.

Bake until the top is cracked and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then carefully invert onto a platter or cake stand and flip upright. Let cool completely, at least 1 1/2 hours. Dust with confectioners' sugar and serve.

Cook's Note

When measuring flour, we spoon it into a dry measuring cup and level off the excess. (Scooping directly from the bag compacts the flour, resulting in dry baked goods.)

White Pumpkin



PUMPKIN-MAPLE CRUSTLESS CHEESECAKE

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple, and ginger with this crustless cheesecake.”

Servings: 12

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake).

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1279

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1279.shtml

Ingredients

3 (8 ounce) packages fat-free cream cheese, warmed in a microwave for 15 seconds

1/3 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

3 large eggs

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup low-fat maple or vanilla yogurt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon imitation maple or rum flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup thinly sliced crystallized ginger (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla.

Pour filling into prepared pan. Bake until outer rim is puffy and center is slightly wobbly, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side.

Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Refrigerate warm cake, uncovered, until cold. Then cover with foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or up to 3 days). Remove 1 hour before serving.

When ready to serve, carefully remove side of pan. Cut into 12 wedges with wet knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with crystallized ginger, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 16 g

PUMPKIN PUDDING

This comes from the January 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “The holidays are fading fast, but that doesn’t mean that the season’s favorites—pumpkins and cranberries—have to go with them. This easy-to-assemble pudding is just as good warm or chilled.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/pumpkin-pudding/.

2 cups vanilla soymilk

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 cup instant tapioca pearls

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, or to taste

Pinch of salt

1 15-oz. can pumpkin purée

2 cups mixed dried fruits, including cranberries, raisins and apples

1 cup toasted pecan halves, as garnish, optional

Put 1 1/2 cups soymilk and vanilla extract into saucepan, and stir in tapioca pearls. Stir remaining 1/2 cup soymilk with cornstarch, and, when well mixed, stir cornstarch mixture into tapioca mixture. Let sit 5 minutes.

Heat soymilk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until pudding begins to thicken, about 7 minutes. Whisk in sugar and salt, stirring to remove any lumps.

Stir in pumpkin purée and dried fruit. Continue cooking and stirring 2 minutes more. Remove from heat, and spoon into heatproof serving bowl. Serve warm, or refrigerate.

To serve, garnish with toasted pecans, if using.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 290; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 67 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 41 g; Vegan

Thursday, July 5, 2018

Diabetic Thursday

It's Diabetic Thursday again. Think diabetic food is boring? Today's six yummy recipes prove otherwise, including Steak Tacos and Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Enjoy!

MEXICAN TURKEY FRITTATA

This recipe begins, “This flavorful egg and turkey frittata recipe will wake up your taste buds.”

Makes 9 servings

Source: Jennie-O

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1339.shtml

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 cups sliced small mushrooms

1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped

3 cups egg substitute or 12 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 cup shredded low-fat Mexican blend cheese

1/3 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Heat oven to 350F.

Mist 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Sprinkle with cumin; stir to mix.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, green pepper, mushrooms and chipotle peppers.

Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are cooked.

In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro until well mixed.

Stir in turkey, cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions.

Spoon mixture into baking dish.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until set. Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

HUNGARIAN BEEF GOULASH

This recipe begins, “This streamlined goulash skips the step of browning the beef, and instead coats it in a spice crust to give it a rich mahogany hue. This saucy dish is a natural served over whole-wheat egg noodles. Or, for something different, try prepared potato gnocchi or spaetzle.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/5002-hungarian-beef-goulash

Total Time: 4 1/2-8 hours

Ingredients

2 pounds beef stew meat, (such as chuck), trimmed and cubed

2 teaspoons caraway seeds

1 1/2-2 tablespoons sweet or hot paprika, (or a mixture of the two), preferably Hungarian (see Ingredient Note)

1/4 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 large or 2 medium onions, chopped

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes

1 14-ounce can reduced-sodium beef broth

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 bay leaves

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months. | Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

8 servings, about 1 cup each

Place beef in a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Crush caraway seeds with the bottom of a saucepan. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in paprika, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the beef with the spice mixture and toss to coat well. Top with onion and bell pepper.

Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic in a medium saucepan; bring to a simmer. Pour over the beef and vegetables. Place bay leaves on top. Cover and cook until the beef is very tender, 4 to 4 1/2 hours on high or 7 to 7 1/2 hours on low.

Discard the bay leaves; skim or blot any visible fat from the surface of the stew. Add the cornstarch mixture to the stew and cook on high, stirring 2 or 3 times, until slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve sprinkled with parsley.

Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months.

Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

Ingredient Note: Paprika specifically labeled as “Hungarian” is worth seeking out for this dish because it delivers a fuller, richer flavor than regular or Spanish paprika. Find it at specialty-foods store or online at HungarianDeli.com and penzeys.com .

Nutritional Facts: Servings 8; Per serving: Calories 177; Carbohydrates 7 g; Fat 5 g; Saturated Fat 2 g; Monounsaturated Fat 2 g; Protein 25 g; Cholesterol 49 mg; Dietary Fiber 1 g; Potassium 288 mg; Sodium 340 mg; Added Sugars 0 g; Exchanges: 1 vegetable; 3 lean meat; Carbohydrate Servings1/2; Vitamin C (40% daily value); Zinc (38% dv); Vitamin A (25% dv)

STEAK TACOS

This recipe begins, “Your slow cooker makes Mexican-style magic, turning flank steak fork-tender and infusing it with irresistible flavors for the best steak tacos you ever ate.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/2664-steak-tacos

Ingredients

1 lb raw lean flank steak (I use semi-frozen steak)

1 packet Taco Seasoning Mix

1 medium onion

4 oz chopped green chilies

1/2 cup (or more) sliced bell pepper

6 Corn tortillas

Directions

Cut steaks in half; rub with taco seasoning. Place in a crock pot coated with nonstick cooking spray. Top with onion, bell pepper and chilies. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or until meat is tender. Remove steaks and cool slightly; shred meat with two forks. Return to crock pot; heat through. Spoon about 1/2 cup meat mixture down the center of each tortilla. Top with cheese, tomato and sour cream. Fold ends and sides over filling.

Nutritional Facts: Servings 6; Yield 6 servings – 210 Calories; 9 g fat (48.1% calories from fat); 17 g Protein; 16 g Carbohydrate; 2 g Dietary Fiber; 39 mg Cholesterol; 186 mg Sodium.

CHOCOLATE FILLED CAKE ROLL

Servings: 12 one-inch slices

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/23.shtml

Ingredients

Cake:

5 eggs

1/2 cup sugar

3 packets of Sweet'n Low

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

Filling:

2 cups skim milk

1 package sugar-free chocolate instant pudding mix

Topping:

2 teaspoons sugar-free cocoa mix

Directions

Preheat oven to 400F.

Grease and line the bottom of a 10x15" jelly roll pan with waxed paper.

Beat eggs in a large bowl with electric mixer until fluffy.

Sprinkle sugar, Sweet'n Low and vanilla over eggs; continue beating for 2 minutes.

Sift flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together.

Sprinkle half the mixture over batter; fold in with spatula.

Repeat with remaining flour mixture.

Spread batter evenly in pan.

Bake on center rack in oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until cake is golden and springs back when lightly touched.

Arrange a towel on work surface and cover with wax or parchment paper.

Loosen edges of cake; unmold on paper.

Roll cake jelly roll style, using towel as a guide.

Leave cake rolled until it cools into jelly roll shape.

To make filling, blend milk with pudding mix according to package directions. Refrigerate pudding until it thickens.

Unroll cake, spread evenly with pudding, and reroll.

Lightly sprinkle sugar-free cocoa over the top to decorate.

Cut into 1" slices and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 122; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 197 mg; Cholesterol: 92 mg; Carbohydrates: 21 g; Exchanges: 1 Fruit; 1/2 Skim Milk; 1/2 Fat; 1 Starch

PUMPKIN-MAPLE CRUSTLESS CHEESECAKE

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple, and ginger with this crustless cheesecake.”

Servings: 12

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake).

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1279

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1279.shtml

Ingredients

3 (8 ounce) packages fat-free cream cheese, warmed in a microwave for 15 seconds

1/3 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

3 large eggs

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup low-fat maple or vanilla yogurt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon imitation maple or rum flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup thinly sliced crystallized ginger (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla.

Pour filling into prepared pan. Bake until outer rim is puffy and center is slightly wobbly, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side.

Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Refrigerate warm cake, uncovered, until cold. Then cover with foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or up to 3 days). Remove 1 hour before serving.

When ready to serve, carefully remove side of pan. Cut into 12 wedges with wet knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with crystallized ginger, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 16 g

BAKED FRENCH FRIES

Prep Time: 5 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 5 - Difficulty Level: 1

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/26.shtml

Ingredients

2 large potatoes

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/8 teaspoon paprika

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 F degree.

Peel potatoes and cut into slices 4 inches long and 1/4 inch wide; place in a bowl of iced water to crisp.

Just before cooking, turn onto paper towel and pat dry.

Spread pieces in one layer of a shallow baking pan.

Sprinkle with the vegetables oil.

Shake pan to spread oil evenly over potatoes.

Bake 30-40 minutes, turning frequently, until gold brown.

Empty potatoes onto paper towels.

Sprinkle with salt and paprika.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 93; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat

Thursday, June 28, 2018

Diabetic Thursday

It's Diabetic Thursday, time to check out how to cook healthy for any diabetics in your life. Today's six yummy recipes include Steak Tacos and Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Enjoy!

MEXICAN TURKEY FRITTATA

This recipe begins, “This flavorful egg and turkey frittata recipe will wake up your taste buds.”

Makes 9 servings

Source: Jennie-O

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1339.shtml

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 cups sliced small mushrooms

1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped

3 cups egg substitute or 12 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 cup shredded low-fat Mexican blend cheese

1/3 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Heat oven to 350F.

Mist 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Sprinkle with cumin; stir to mix.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, green pepper, mushrooms and chipotle peppers.

Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are cooked.

In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro until well mixed.

Stir in turkey, cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions.

Spoon mixture into baking dish.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until set. Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

HUNGARIAN BEEF GOULASH

This recipe begins, “This streamlined goulash skips the step of browning the beef, and instead coats it in a spice crust to give it a rich mahogany hue. This saucy dish is a natural served over whole-wheat egg noodles. Or, for something different, try prepared potato gnocchi or spaetzle.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/5002-hungarian-beef-goulash

Total Time: 4 1/2-8 hours

Ingredients

2 pounds beef stew meat, (such as chuck), trimmed and cubed

2 teaspoons caraway seeds

1 1/2-2 tablespoons sweet or hot paprika, (or a mixture of the two), preferably Hungarian (see Ingredient Note)

1/4 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 large or 2 medium onions, chopped

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes

1 14-ounce can reduced-sodium beef broth

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 bay leaves

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months. | Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

8 servings, about 1 cup each

Place beef in a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Crush caraway seeds with the bottom of a saucepan. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in paprika, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the beef with the spice mixture and toss to coat well. Top with onion and bell pepper.

Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic in a medium saucepan; bring to a simmer. Pour over the beef and vegetables. Place bay leaves on top. Cover and cook until the beef is very tender, 4 to 4 1/2 hours on high or 7 to 7 1/2 hours on low.

Discard the bay leaves; skim or blot any visible fat from the surface of the stew. Add the cornstarch mixture to the stew and cook on high, stirring 2 or 3 times, until slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve sprinkled with parsley.

Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months.

Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

Ingredient Note: Paprika specifically labeled as “Hungarian” is worth seeking out for this dish because it delivers a fuller, richer flavor than regular or Spanish paprika. Find it at specialty-foods store or online at HungarianDeli.com and penzeys.com .

Nutritional Facts: Servings 8; Per serving: Calories 177; Carbohydrates 7 g; Fat 5 g; Saturated Fat 2 g; Monounsaturated Fat 2 g; Protein 25 g; Cholesterol 49 mg; Dietary Fiber 1 g; Potassium 288 mg; Sodium 340 mg; Added Sugars 0 g; Exchanges: 1 vegetable; 3 lean meat; Carbohydrate Servings1/2; Vitamin C (40% daily value); Zinc (38% dv); Vitamin A (25% dv)

STEAK TACOS

This recipe begins, “Your slow cooker makes Mexican-style magic, turning flank steak fork-tender and infusing it with irresistible flavors for the best steak tacos you ever ate.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/2664-steak-tacos

Ingredients

1 lb raw lean flank steak (I use semi-frozen steak)

1 packet Taco Seasoning Mix

1 medium onion

4 oz chopped green chilies

1/2 cup (or more) sliced bell pepper

6 Corn tortillas

Directions

Cut steaks in half; rub with taco seasoning. Place in a crock pot coated with nonstick cooking spray. Top with onion, bell pepper and chilies. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or until meat is tender. Remove steaks and cool slightly; shred meat with two forks. Return to crock pot; heat through. Spoon about 1/2 cup meat mixture down the center of each tortilla. Top with cheese, tomato and sour cream. Fold ends and sides over filling.

Nutritional Facts: Servings 6; Yield 6 servings – 210 Calories; 9 g fat (48.1% calories from fat); 17 g Protein; 16 g Carbohydrate; 2 g Dietary Fiber; 39 mg Cholesterol; 186 mg Sodium.

CHOCOLATE FILLED CAKE ROLL

Servings: 12 one-inch slices

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/23.shtml

Ingredients

Cake:

5 eggs

1/2 cup sugar

3 packets of Sweet'n Low

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

Filling:

2 cups skim milk

1 package sugar-free chocolate instant pudding mix

Topping:

2 teaspoons sugar-free cocoa mix

Directions

Preheat oven to 400F.

Grease and line the bottom of a 10x15" jelly roll pan with waxed paper.

Beat eggs in a large bowl with electric mixer until fluffy.

Sprinkle sugar, Sweet'n Low and vanilla over eggs; continue beating for 2 minutes.

Sift flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together.

Sprinkle half the mixture over batter; fold in with spatula.

Repeat with remaining flour mixture.

Spread batter evenly in pan.

Bake on center rack in oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until cake is golden and springs back when lightly touched.

Arrange a towel on work surface and cover with wax or parchment paper.

Loosen edges of cake; unmold on paper.

Roll cake jelly roll style, using towel as a guide.

Leave cake rolled until it cools into jelly roll shape.

To make filling, blend milk with pudding mix according to package directions. Refrigerate pudding until it thickens.

Unroll cake, spread evenly with pudding, and reroll.

Lightly sprinkle sugar-free cocoa over the top to decorate.

Cut into 1" slices and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 122; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 197 mg; Cholesterol: 92 mg; Carbohydrates: 21 g; Exchanges: 1 Fruit; 1/2 Skim Milk; 1/2 Fat; 1 Starch

PUMPKIN-MAPLE CRUSTLESS CHEESECAKE

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple, and ginger with this crustless cheesecake.”

Servings: 12

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake).

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1279

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1279.shtml

Ingredients

3 (8 ounce) packages fat-free cream cheese, warmed in a microwave for 15 seconds

1/3 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

3 large eggs

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup low-fat maple or vanilla yogurt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon imitation maple or rum flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup thinly sliced crystallized ginger (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla.

Pour filling into prepared pan. Bake until outer rim is puffy and center is slightly wobbly, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side.

Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Refrigerate warm cake, uncovered, until cold. Then cover with foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or up to 3 days). Remove 1 hour before serving.

When ready to serve, carefully remove side of pan. Cut into 12 wedges with wet knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with crystallized ginger, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 16 g

BAKED FRENCH FRIES

Prep Time: 5 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 5 - Difficulty Level: 1

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/26.shtml

Ingredients

2 large potatoes

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/8 teaspoon paprika

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 F degree.

Peel potatoes and cut into slices 4 inches long and 1/4 inch wide; place in a bowl of iced water to crisp.

Just before cooking, turn onto paper towel and pat dry.

Spread pieces in one layer of a shallow baking pan.

Sprinkle with the vegetables oil.

Shake pan to spread oil evenly over potatoes.

Bake 30-40 minutes, turning frequently, until gold brown.

Empty potatoes onto paper towels.

Sprinkle with salt and paprika.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 93; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat

Saturday, October 28, 2017

Pumpkins

It's the last Saturday before Halloween, the unofficial start of the holiday season.

I know, there are those who'll say that Halloween isn't technically a holiday, but its history does indicate a definite holiday twist to it.

White Pumpkin



But whether you look at it as a holiday (whether celebrated as such or only in a historical sense) or as simply a fun evening of ghosts, pumpkins, and tons of candy, passed out to trick-or-treaters, it's still a good day. And in honor of Halloween, here are six yummy pumpkin recipes, including Pumpkin Pudding and Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Enjoy!

It's the Great Pumpkin! - Pumpkins in front of Earth Fare in Seminole, Florida.



PUMPKIN SPICE GHOST CAKE

This is from Very Best Baking by Nestle, and begins, “Surprise your trick-or treaters with this hauntingly-good pumpkin spice cake with a rich cream cheese frosting.”

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cooking Time: 35 minutes; Skill level: Intermediate; Makes 12 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cake:

1 pkg. (18 oz.) spice or carrot cake mix

1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

3 large eggs

1/3 cup water

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Cream Cheese Frosting:

2 pkgs. (3 oz. each) cream cheeese, softened

2 tablespoons margarine or butter, softened

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar

*Black string licorice, NESTLÉ RAISINETS Milk Chocolate-Covered Raisins and Halloween candy corn (optional)

Instructions

For Cake:

Preheat oven to 350º F. Grease and flour two 8- or 9-inch-round cake pans.

Combine cake mix, pumpkin, eggs, water, vegetable oil and pumpkin pie spice in large mixer bowl until moistened. Beat for 2 minutes or until thoroughly mixed. Pour batter into prepared pans.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Frost with Cream Cheese Frosting.

For Cream Cheese Frosting:

Beat cream cheese, margarine and vanilla extract in small mixer bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar. Spread between layers and on top and side of cake.

To Garnish:

Form licorice strings into ghost shapes; press into side of frosted cake. Use Raisinets for eyes. Arrange candy corn between ghosts on side and around top edge of frosted cake.

Pumpkins



VEGAN PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE BROWNIES

This is from Alissa Saenz at Connoisseurus Veg, and starts off, “Fudgy chocolate chip-studded vegan brownies are topped with a layer of luscious cashew cheesecake to make this decadent and totally vegan fall dessert.”

Servings: 16; Calories 254 kcal; Author Alissa Saenz

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer

1/2 cup coconut oil, melted

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup organic granulated sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour

2/3 cup cocoa powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer

1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water 4-8 hours and drained

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/3 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 1/2 teaspoons powdered ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350° and lightly oil a 9 x 9 inch baking pan.

To make the brownie layer, stir the coconut oil, pumpkin puree, vanilla and sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Add the flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon and salt. Stir just until fully blended. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Spread the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and bake just until set in the center, 18-20 minutes.

While the brownie layer bakes, place all ingredients for the cheesecake layer except for the chocolate chips into the bowl of a food processor fitted with an S-blade. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Remove the blade or transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the chocolate chips.

When the brownie layer is set, remove the pan from the oven and spread the cheesecake mixture over top. Return the pan to the oven and bake until the cheesecake layer is set, 22-24 minutes.

Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely. Cut into 16 squares and serve.



PUMPKIN PATCH BROWNIES

This is from Lauren Miyashiro on Delish. The recipe begins, “The sweetest pumpkin patch you ever did see.”

Total Time: 1 hour; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 8 - 10.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 box brownie mix, plus required ingredients

1 c. white chocolate chips

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

green food coloring

1 can chocolate frosting

1 c. crushed oreos

Pumpkin candies

Directions

Preheat oven to 350° and line a 9-x-13” pan with parchment paper then grease with cooking spray. Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until a toothpick has moist crumbs, 28 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely.

In a small bowl, combine white chocolate chips, vegetable oil and green food coloring. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted. Stir until smooth then transfer to a small ziplock bag and cut the tip of one corner to pipe.

Spread chocolate frosting over the brownies, then sprinkle with crushed Oreos. Using the green chocolate, pipe vines over the surface of the brownies, then scatter pumpkin candies on top of the brownies.

Slice into squares and serve.

CHEESECAKE-STUFFED PUMPKIN BREAD

This is from The Food Network, and begins, “Everyone's favorite fall quick bread hides a decadent surprise inside -- a rich swirl of cheesecake.”

Total: 3 hr 45 min; Active: 25 min; Yield: 1 loaf; Level: Easy

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cheesecake Swirl:

One 8-ounce package cream cheese, at room temperature

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup sour cream

1 large egg

Pumpkin Bread:

Nonstick cooking spray

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the pan (see Cook's Note)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 large egg

Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Directions

For the cheesecake swirl: Position an oven rack in the bottom third of the oven and preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Combine the cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream and egg in a large bowl and beat with a mixer until well combined; set aside.

For the pumpkin bread: Generously spray a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray and dust with flour. Whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl and set aside. Whisk together the granulated sugar and pumpkin puree in a large bowl, then whisk in the oil, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla and egg. Whisk in the flour mixture until just combined.

Reserve 1 cup of the pumpkin batter. Spread the remaining batter in the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin batter, then put the reserved cup pumpkin batter in a line down the center of the pan. Insert the tip of a paring knife into the batter and drag it through and up to swirl 5 to 6 times.

Bake until the top is cracked and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then carefully invert onto a platter or cake stand and flip upright. Let cool completely, at least 1 1/2 hours. Dust with confectioners' sugar and serve.

Cook's Note

When measuring flour, we spoon it into a dry measuring cup and level off the excess. (Scooping directly from the bag compacts the flour, resulting in dry baked goods.)

Pumpkins: Orange, White, and Ugly Pumpkins



PUMPKIN-MAPLE CRUSTLESS CHEESECAKE

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple, and ginger with this crustless cheesecake.”

Servings: 12

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake).

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1279

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1279.shtml

Ingredients

3 (8 ounce) packages fat-free cream cheese, warmed in a microwave for 15 seconds

1/3 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

3 large eggs

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup low-fat maple or vanilla yogurt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon imitation maple or rum flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup thinly sliced crystallized ginger (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla.

Pour filling into prepared pan. Bake until outer rim is puffy and center is slightly wobbly, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side.

Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Refrigerate warm cake, uncovered, until cold. Then cover with foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or up to 3 days). Remove 1 hour before serving.

When ready to serve, carefully remove side of pan. Cut into 12 wedges with wet knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with crystallized ginger, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 16 g

Scarecrow and Pumpkins



PUMPKIN PUDDING

This comes from the January 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “The holidays are fading fast, but that doesn’t mean that the season’s favorites—pumpkins and cranberries—have to go with them. This easy-to-assemble pudding is just as good warm or chilled.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/pumpkin-pudding/.

2 cups vanilla soymilk

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 cup instant tapioca pearls

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, or to taste

Pinch of salt

1 15-oz. can pumpkin purée

2 cups mixed dried fruits, including cranberries, raisins and apples

1 cup toasted pecan halves, as garnish, optional

Put 1 1/2 cups soymilk and vanilla extract into saucepan, and stir in tapioca pearls. Stir remaining 1/2 cup soymilk with cornstarch, and, when well mixed, stir cornstarch mixture into tapioca mixture. Let sit 5 minutes.

Heat soymilk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until pudding begins to thicken, about 7 minutes. Whisk in sugar and salt, stirring to remove any lumps.

Stir in pumpkin purée and dried fruit. Continue cooking and stirring 2 minutes more. Remove from heat, and spoon into heatproof serving bowl. Serve warm, or refrigerate.

To serve, garnish with toasted pecans, if using.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 290; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 67 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 41 g; Vegan

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Diabetic Thursday

It's Diabetic Thursday. Here are today's six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Steak Tacos and Pumpkin-Maple Crustless Cheesecake. Enjoy!

MEXICAN TURKEY FRITTATA

This recipe begins, “This flavorful egg and turkey frittata recipe will wake up your taste buds.”

Makes 9 servings

Source: Jennie-O

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1339.shtml

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 cups sliced small mushrooms

1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped

3 cups egg substitute or 12 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 cup shredded low-fat Mexican blend cheese

1/3 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Heat oven to 350F.

Mist 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Sprinkle with cumin; stir to mix.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, green pepper, mushrooms and chipotle peppers.

Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are cooked.

In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro until well mixed.

Stir in turkey, cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions.

Spoon mixture into baking dish.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until set. Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

HUNGARIAN BEEF GOULASH

This recipe begins, “This streamlined goulash skips the step of browning the beef, and instead coats it in a spice crust to give it a rich mahogany hue. This saucy dish is a natural served over whole-wheat egg noodles. Or, for something different, try prepared potato gnocchi or spaetzle.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/5002-hungarian-beef-goulash

Total Time: 4 1/2-8 hours

Ingredients

2 pounds beef stew meat, (such as chuck), trimmed and cubed

2 teaspoons caraway seeds

1 1/2-2 tablespoons sweet or hot paprika, (or a mixture of the two), preferably Hungarian (see Ingredient Note)

1/4 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 large or 2 medium onions, chopped

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes

1 14-ounce can reduced-sodium beef broth

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 bay leaves

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months. | Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

8 servings, about 1 cup each

Place beef in a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Crush caraway seeds with the bottom of a saucepan. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in paprika, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the beef with the spice mixture and toss to coat well. Top with onion and bell pepper.

Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic in a medium saucepan; bring to a simmer. Pour over the beef and vegetables. Place bay leaves on top. Cover and cook until the beef is very tender, 4 to 4 1/2 hours on high or 7 to 7 1/2 hours on low.

Discard the bay leaves; skim or blot any visible fat from the surface of the stew. Add the cornstarch mixture to the stew and cook on high, stirring 2 or 3 times, until slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve sprinkled with parsley.

Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 4 months.

Prep ahead: Trim beef and coat with spice mixture. Prepare vegetables. Combine tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Refrigerate in separate covered containers for up to 1 day.

Ingredient Note: Paprika specifically labeled as “Hungarian” is worth seeking out for this dish because it delivers a fuller, richer flavor than regular or Spanish paprika. Find it at specialty-foods store or online at HungarianDeli.com and penzeys.com .

Nutritional Facts: Servings 8; Per serving: Calories 177; Carbohydrates 7 g; Fat 5 g; Saturated Fat 2 g; Monounsaturated Fat 2 g; Protein 25 g; Cholesterol 49 mg; Dietary Fiber 1 g; Potassium 288 mg; Sodium 340 mg; Added Sugars 0 g; Exchanges: 1 vegetable; 3 lean meat; Carbohydrate Servings1/2; Vitamin C (40% daily value); Zinc (38% dv); Vitamin A (25% dv)

STEAK TACOS

This recipe begins, “Your slow cooker makes Mexican-style magic, turning flank steak fork-tender and infusing it with irresistible flavors for the best steak tacos you ever ate.”

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/2664-steak-tacos

Ingredients

1 lb raw lean flank steak (I use semi-frozen steak)

1 packet Taco Seasoning Mix

1 medium onion

4 oz chopped green chilies

1/2 cup (or more) sliced bell pepper

6 Corn tortillas

Directions

Cut steaks in half; rub with taco seasoning. Place in a crock pot coated with nonstick cooking spray. Top with onion, bell pepper and chilies. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or until meat is tender. Remove steaks and cool slightly; shred meat with two forks. Return to crock pot; heat through. Spoon about 1/2 cup meat mixture down the center of each tortilla. Top with cheese, tomato and sour cream. Fold ends and sides over filling.

Nutritional Facts: Servings 6; Yield 6 servings – 210 Calories; 9 g fat (48.1% calories from fat); 17 g Protein; 16 g Carbohydrate; 2 g Dietary Fiber; 39 mg Cholesterol; 186 mg Sodium.

CHOCOLATE FILLED CAKE ROLL

Servings: 12 one-inch slices

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/23.shtml

Ingredients

Cake:

5 eggs

1/2 cup sugar

3 packets of Sweet'n Low

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

Filling:

2 cups skim milk

1 package sugar-free chocolate instant pudding mix

Topping:

2 teaspoons sugar-free cocoa mix

Directions

Preheat oven to 400F.

Grease and line the bottom of a 10x15" jelly roll pan with waxed paper.

Beat eggs in a large bowl with electric mixer until fluffy.

Sprinkle sugar, Sweet'n Low and vanilla over eggs; continue beating for 2 minutes.

Sift flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together.

Sprinkle half the mixture over batter; fold in with spatula.

Repeat with remaining flour mixture.

Spread batter evenly in pan.

Bake on center rack in oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until cake is golden and springs back when lightly touched.

Arrange a towel on work surface and cover with wax or parchment paper.

Loosen edges of cake; unmold on paper.

Roll cake jelly roll style, using towel as a guide.

Leave cake rolled until it cools into jelly roll shape.

To make filling, blend milk with pudding mix according to package directions. Refrigerate pudding until it thickens.

Unroll cake, spread evenly with pudding, and reroll.

Lightly sprinkle sugar-free cocoa over the top to decorate.

Cut into 1" slices and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 122; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 197 mg; Cholesterol: 92 mg; Carbohydrates: 21 g; Exchanges: 1 Fruit; 1/2 Skim Milk; 1/2 Fat; 1 Starch

PUMPKIN-MAPLE CRUSTLESS CHEESECAKE

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple, and ginger with this crustless cheesecake.”

Servings: 12

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake).

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1279

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1279.shtml

Ingredients

3 (8 ounce) packages fat-free cream cheese, warmed in a microwave for 15 seconds

1/3 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

3 large eggs

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup low-fat maple or vanilla yogurt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon imitation maple or rum flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup thinly sliced crystallized ginger (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla.

Pour filling into prepared pan. Bake until outer rim is puffy and center is slightly wobbly, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side.

Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Refrigerate warm cake, uncovered, until cold. Then cover with foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or up to 3 days). Remove 1 hour before serving.

When ready to serve, carefully remove side of pan. Cut into 12 wedges with wet knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with crystallized ginger, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 16 g

BAKED FRENCH FRIES

Prep Time: 5 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 5 - Difficulty Level: 1

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/26.shtml

Ingredients

2 large potatoes

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/8 teaspoon paprika

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 F degree.

Peel potatoes and cut into slices 4 inches long and 1/4 inch wide; place in a bowl of iced water to crisp.

Just before cooking, turn onto paper towel and pat dry.

Spread pieces in one layer of a shallow baking pan.

Sprinkle with the vegetables oil.

Shake pan to spread oil evenly over potatoes.

Bake 30-40 minutes, turning frequently, until gold brown.

Empty potatoes onto paper towels.

Sprinkle with salt and paprika.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 93; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Week Day Recipes

It's Wednesday - half-way through the week. (Yay!) Here are today's recipes. Enjoy!

ANADAMA BATTER BREAD

This comes from Elizabeth Yetter, About.com's Bread Baking expert. She writes, “If you like dark breads with good flavor, you will want to try out this version of anadama bread. Made with molasses and a touch of brown sugar, this loaf makes a great snacking bread and tastes delicious when toasted and smothered in butter.” Prep Time: 120 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 170 minutes; Yield: 1 loaf

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup water, room temperature

2-1/4 tsp (1/4 oz or 1 package) active dry yeast

1/2 cup yellow cornmeal

1/4 cup molasses

1 Tbsp brown sugar, packed

4 Tbsp coconut oil

2 tsp sea salt

2-3/4 cups bread or all-purpose flour, about

Directions

In a large bowl, add water and yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved and then let stand for about 2 minutes. Next, add the cornmeal, molasses, brown sugar, coconut oil, and sea salt. Stir until the brown sugar and salt is dissolved. The salt does not kill the yeast. It “retards” or slows down the growth of yeast and brings out the flavor in the bread. Mix in 2 cups of the flour. Slowly add in the remaining flour.

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and set to rise in a warm, draft free area for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.

After the dough is finished with its first rise, stir down the dough inside the bowl. Grease a 9x5-inch bread pan with shortening. Lightly coat the bread pan with cornmeal. This is to help the bread release from the pan after being baked. If you don’t have cornmeal on hand, simply grease the bread pan and skip the cornmeal. Scrape the batter into the bread pan, cover with the clean kitchen cloth, and let rise a second time in a warm, draft free area for 45 minutes or until doubled. Bake the loaf at 375 degrees F for 50 minutes or until the top is dark brown and the bread sounds hollow when you tap on the top. Remove from oven and turn out onto a cooling rack. Allow to cool completely before storing or freezing.

You can easily freeze bread for toast or sandwiches. First allow the bread to cool completely. Slice the loaf as you would for sandwiches. Place all the slices in the bag, close it, and set it in the freezer.

To use, take out the slices you need to make sandwiches and allow them to thaw on the kitchen counter or lightly toast the slices. Make your sandwiches as you normally would.

Bread Baking Tips

Store brown sugar into an airtight container to keep it from becoming hard.

When measuring out brown sugar, always pack it down into the measuring cup or spoon unless the recipe tells you to do otherwise.

Use bottled water instead of tap water to make your breads. Water softeners and chlorinated public water can sometimes kill the yeast needed to make your bread dough rise.

An opened jar of molasses lasts up to one year.

To prevent the molasses from sticking to your measuring spoon, coat the spoon in a tiny amount of cooking oil.

Keep yeast stored in an airtight container and in the refrigerator. Heat, moisture, and air kills the yeast and prevents bread dough from rising.

ASPARAGUS CHEF SALAD

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/227.shtml

Source: Cooking Healthy and Fast

Yield: 4-1/2 (1 cup) servings

Ingredients

2-1/2 lb. asparagus, trimmed

8 oz. mushrooms, sliced

2 oz. part-skim julienne Swiss cheese

2 oz. lean julienne ham

1 Tbsp.finely chopped onion

1 orange, peeled and cubed

Dressing:

1 pkg. lemon and herb salad dressing mix

2 Tbsp. water

1/4 cup vinegar

1/4 cup vegetable oil

Directions

Chop asparagus into bite-sized pieces and place in a microwavve-proof casserole dish. Add 2 Tbsp. water, cover, and Microwave for 2 minutes. Drain. Measure remaining ingredients into a salad bowl. Add asparagus when completely cool.

Prepare dressing in a shaker container and add approximately 1/3 of it to the salad. Save remaining dressing for greens and fresh vegetables.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 151; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 347 mg; Cholesterol: 25 mg; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable; 1 Lean Meat; 1 Fat

PUMPKIN-MAPLE CRUSTLESS CHEESECAKE

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple, and ginger with this crustless cheesecake.”

Servings: 12

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake).

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1279.shtml

Ingredients

3 (8 ounce) packages fat-free cream cheese, warmed in a microwave for 15 seconds

1/3 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

3 large eggs

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup low-fat maple or vanilla yogurt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon imitation maple or rum flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup thinly sliced crystallized ginger (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla.

Pour filling into prepared pan. Bake until outer rim is puffy and center is slightly wobbly, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side.

Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Refrigerate warm cake, uncovered, until cold. Then cover with foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or up to 3 days). Remove 1 hour before serving.

When ready to serve, carefully remove side of pan. Cut into 12 wedges with wet knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with crystallized ginger, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g

POTATO AND ONION SOUP

This is from Roadfood.com. The send out emails periodically which are almost always interesting. This recipe, from Harry Caray's, starts off, “Cooking potatoes in beef stock gives the starchy vegetable a savor that all carnivores will appreciate. A sprinkle of Parmesan on each serving adds just the right zip.”

Preparation Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes Servings: 6

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 1/2 cups peeled and sliced Spanish onions

3-1/2 cups homemade beef stock or equivalent amount of canned, low salt beef broth

3 cups peeled and cubed potatoes

Salt and pepper to taste

3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Melt the butter in a large sauté pan and add the olive oil.

Add the onions and sauté until they become clear and turn a light brown. Set aside.

In a large stock pot, bring the beef stock to a boil. Reduce the heat and add the diced potatoes. Simmer over medium heat until the potatoes are soft.

Add the onions to the stock pot and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Salt and pepper the soup to taste. Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese on top and serve.

CROCKPOT VEGETABLE MINESTRONE

Linda Larsen, About.com's Busy Cooks guide, writes, “This hearty recipe has a very complex flavor. One of the more surprising parts of the recipe is that pasta cooks right in the crockpot.”

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 8 hours; Total Time: 8 hours, 20 minutes

Ingredients:

4 cups vegetable broth or stock

4 cups tomato juice

1 tsp. salt

1 Tbsp. dried basil leaves

1/8 tsp. pepper

2 carrots, sliced

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sliced mushrooms

2 (14 oz.) cans diced tomatoes, undrained

1-1/2 cups uncooked rotini pasta

Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

Mix all ingredients except pasta and cheese in a 4-5 quart crockpot. Cover crockpot and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours until vegetables are tender. Stir in pasta. Cover and cook on HIGH setting for 15-25 minutes until pasta is tender. Sprinkle each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. 12 servings

CHILLED CUCUMBER SOUP: TART, TANGY, TINGLY

This comes from Kevin D. Weeks, About.com's former Cooking for 2 guide. He wrote, “I know people who say "Ech!" when I mention chilled soups. The idea of eating cold soup simply offends their sense of "rightness" - soup should be hot and savory, something for a cold January day. But a chilled soup, enjoyed on the patio on a hot summer day while the grill is roasting a few steaks is almost the apotheosis of good times in the summer time. Slightly spicy with a nice lilt of curry and a refreshing tartness from the buttermilk, yogurt, and lime, this soup is wonderfully cool and refreshing soup served with grilled fish. Serves 2.

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

2 10-inch cucumbers; peeled, seeded, and chopped

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup plain yogurt

1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice

1 sm. shallot; finely chopped

1 Tbsp. fresh mint; finely chopped

1/2 tsp. curry powder

Salt to taste

1/4 tsp. ground white pepper

Preparation:

Place cucumbers, scallions, mint, and lime juice in a food processor.

Pulse four or five times, scraping down sides once, then and process until finely chopped - about one minute longer.

Scrape down sides and add remaining ingredients and process another minute. Taste and adjust seasonings.

Chill for at least 4 hours. Taste and adjust seasonings again before serving.