I love homemade soup. It seems to be the perfect meal when it's cold, rainy, or when I'm tired.
Actually, it's pretty good almost any time, which is why a post dedicated to soup.
Before we get started, I want to share a guide, titled HOW TO MAKE SOUP. This guide to making soup is by Samin Nosgrat and was in a recent New York Times cooking e-newsletter. It’s really a helpful guide, easy to read, and quite informative. Check it out online here.
And now, here are today's six soup recipes to help you through the day. Enjoy!
RED LENTIL SOUP WITH LEMON
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “This is a lentil soup that defies expectations of what lentil soup can be. It is light, spicy and a bold red color (no murky brown here): a revelatory dish that takes less than an hour to make. The cooking is painless. Sauté onion and garlic in oil, then stir in tomato paste, cumin and chile powder and cook a few minutes more to intensify flavor. Add broth, water, red lentils (which cook faster than their green or black counterparts) and diced carrot, and simmer for 30 minutes. Purée half the mixture and return it to the pot for a soup that strikes the balance between chunky and pleasingly smooth. A hit of lemon juice adds an up note that offsets the deep cumin and chile flavors.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: 45 minutes.
This was featured in “A Lentil Soup to Make You Stop, Taste and Savor and can be viewed online here.
Want to know more about making soup? Check out Samin Nosrat’s guide “How to Make Soup”.
Also, check out Melissa Clark’s guide, “Hot to Cook Beans.”
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil, more for drizzling
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pinch of ground chile powder or cayenne, more to taste
1 quart chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 cup red lentils
1 large carrot, peeled and diced
Juice of 1/2 lemon, more to taste
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation
In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons oil over high heat until hot and shimmering. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until golden, about 4 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste, cumin, salt, black pepper and chili powder or cayenne, and sauté for 2 minutes longer.
Add broth, 2 cups water, lentils and carrot. Bring to a simmer, then partially cover pot and turn heat to medium-low. Simmer until lentils are soft, about 30 minutes. Taste and add salt if necessary.
Using an immersion or regular blender or a food processor, purée half the soup then add it back to pot. Soup should be somewhat chunky.
Reheat soup if necessary, then stir in lemon juice and cilantro. Serve soup drizzled with good olive oil and dusted lightly with chili powder if desired.
ONE-POT FRENCH ONION SOUP WITH GARLIC-GRUYERE CROUTONS
This also comes from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “I don’t make onion soup at home partly because I lack the flameproof bowls that chefs run under the broiler to melt the cheese. And what’s the point of making onion soup without the elastic cap of gooey Gruyère? The more I pondered this, the more I wondered if I could skip those individual bowls, layer the croutons and cheese directly into the soup pot, and just broil the whole thing.” Yield: 8 servings; Time: 5 hours.
This was featured in “A Snip of the Shears Tames a Cheesy Soup: French Onion Soup by the Potful” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 pounds oxtail or beef shoulder, cut into 1- or 2-inch pieces
Salt
8 medium onions
4 celery stalks, coarsely chopped
4 medium carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped
2 bay leaves
4 thyme sprigs
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
Black pepper
1 cup port wine
Lemon juice, to taste, optional
6 ounces baguette loaf, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
2 garlic cloves, halved
8 ounces Gruyère cheese
Preparation
Heat the oil in a 6-quart Dutch oven over high heat. Add the oxtail (or beef shoulder) in a single layer (work in batches, if necessary to avoid crowding the pan), and sear until the undersides are brown (do not turn). Season generously with salt and transfer to a plate.
Coarsely chop two of the onions; add to the pot, along with the celery, carrots, bay leaves and thyme. Lower heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are soft and beginning to caramelize, about 10 minutes. Return the beef to the pot. Pour in 8 cups water. Simmer mixture gently until the meat is very tender, 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
Transfer beef to a bowl to cool for another use. Strain liquid into a bowl over a fine-mesh sieve; press gently on the solids with the back of a spatula to extract as much flavor as possible. Discard the solids; you should have about 10 cups broth (add water if necessary to equal 10 cups).
Halve the remaining 6 onions through the root end, then peel and thinly slice them lengthwise. Melt the butter in the bottom of the Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, tossing occasionally, until deep golden-brown and caramelized, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper. Pour in the port and cook, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, for 3 minutes. Pour in the broth and simmer mixture over low heat for 30 minutes. Season with salt and lemon juice, if desired. (For a smaller group, you could refrigerate some of the soup and reheat it later.)
While the broth simmers, heat the oven to 350 degrees. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden, about 12 minutes. Rub the garlic halves over the surface of the bread.
Heat the broiler and arrange a rack 4 to 6 inches from the flame. Using a cheese slicer, thinly slice 3 ounces of Gruyère. Coarsely grate the remaining cheese. Float the broiled bread over the surface of the hot soup. Layer the cheese slices over the bread; scatter the grated cheese over it. Transfer the Dutch oven to the oven and broil until cheese is golden and bubbling, 3 to 5 minutes (watch to see that it does not burn).
To serve, use kitchen shears or scissors to cut the bread and cheese into portions. Ladle soup, bread and cheese into individual bowls.
Tip
To broil the soup in individual bowls, place 8 ovenproof bowls on a baking sheet. Fill with hot soup, top with broiled bread, shaved cheese and grated cheese, and run under the broiler until golden and bubbling. You may need to prepare it in batches.
POTATO-LEEK SOUP WITH BACON
View this online at http://www.publix.com/recipes-planning/aprons-recipes/potato-leek-soup-with-bacon
Ingredients
3 large leeks, coarsely chopped
3 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme
2 lb gold potatoes
3 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups unsalted chicken stock (or broth)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
Directions
Chop well-rinsed leeks (white part only; 2 cups); chop garlic and thyme. Peel potatoes and cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
Preheat large stockpot on medium-low 2–3 minutes. Cut bacon into pieces. Place oil in pot, then add bacon; cook and stir 4–5 minutes or until crisp. Remove bacon from pot. Place leeks and garlic in same pot; cook and stir 6–7 minutes or until tender (do not brown).
Stir in stock, salt, pepper, potatoes, and thyme; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove pot from heat; puree soup with a stick blender. (Or you can use an electric blender; let soup cool 5–8 minutes, then puree in batches until smooth.) Chop chives. Stir yogurt into soup; top each serving with bacon and chives. Serve warm or chill before serving.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: CALORIES (per 1/6 recipe) 240kcal; FAT 9.00g; SAT FAT 2.50g; TRANS FAT 0.00g; CHOL 10mg; SODIUM 370mg; CARB 31g; FIBER 2.00g; SUGARS 1g; PROTEIN 10g; CALC 4%; VIT A 6%; VIT C 60%; IRON 10%
BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP
This is from Ree Drummond of The Food Network’s The Pioneer Woman. Total Time: 45 minutes; Active Time: 10 minutes; Yield: 10 servings; Level: Easy.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
4 heads broccoli, cut into 1-inch pieces
Olive oil, for drizzling
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter
1 whole onion, diced
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
2 cups half-and-half
Pinch nutmeg
3 cups grated cheese (mild Cheddar, sharp Cheddar, Jack, etc.), plus more for garnish, optional
1 cup chicken broth, optional
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Remove 2 cups of the broccoli florets, cut in half, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet cut-side down and bake until the florets begin to crisp and turn slightly brown.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle the flour on top. Stir to combine and cook until the flour is absorbed and smells lightly toasted, 1 minute or so. Add the milk and half-and-half. Add the nutmeg, then the broccoli, a small dash of salt and plenty of black pepper. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer until the broccoli is tender, 20 to 30 minutes. Stir in the cheese and allow to melt.
Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the soup as is, mash with a potato masher to break up the broccoli a bit, or transfer to a blender in two batches and puree completely. (If you puree in a blender, return the soup to the heat to heat back up. Splash in some chicken broth if needed for thinning.) Garnish with the toasted broccoli or grated cheese and serve.
SWEET POTATO, CARAMELIZED ONION, AND APPLE CIDER SOUP
This is from Soup for Every Body by Joanna Pruess with Lauren Braun via Publix's December, 2005 GreenWise.
1 1/2 hours prep time (includes baking time); Serves 4-6
1 1/2 lb sweet potatoes (or yams)
2 Tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
2 large onions, peeled and thinly sliced
2 C fresh apple cider
1 Tbsp unsulphured molasses plus 3 Tbsp water
2 C chicken or vegetable stock
salt and white pepper
2 Tbsp finely chopped walnuts, lightly toasted
1 Tbsp finely shredded fresh sage leaves
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Bake sweet potatoes until tender, about 1 hour. Set aside to cool, then peel. While potatoes are baking, heat butter or oil in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in onions and adjust head to medium. Sauté until golden brown and very tender, about 20-25 minutes, stirring often.
Transfer onions, sweet potatoes, and apple cider to food processor. Puree until smooth.
Return puree to pan and stir in molasses and water. Add stock to the puree and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Ladle soup into heated bowls. Sprinkle a small amount of chopped walnuts and shredded sage leaves in center of each bowl and serve.
Per serving: 326 calories; 4 g protein; 59 g carbohydrates; 7 g fiber; 9 g total fat (4 g sta., 2 g mono, 2 g poly); 346 mg sodium; Vitamin A, B6, Manganese, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), C, E, Pantothenic acid, Copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium.
CREAM OF TURNIP SOUP
This also comes from the January 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “This comforting soup is so subtly flavored that even turnip-haters like it. Baby turnips have a milder taste, but the recipe works just as well with regular turnips. Thinly sliced celery leaves mimic lovage, an herb often used in France to season turnip dishes.” Serves 6.
To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/cream-of-turnip-soup/.
2 Tbs. olive oil
2 lb. fresh baby turnips, peeled and diced
1 small onion, diced (1 cup)
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup soy creamer, optional
1/4 cup celery leaves, sliced into fine strips
Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add turnips and onion, and cook 15 minutes, or until vegetables are translucent, stirring occasionally. Add bay leaves and 3 cups water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover, and cook 25 to 30 minutes, or until turnips are very tender.
Remove from heat, and remove bay leaves. Add soy creamer, if using. Use blender or food processor to purée ingredients until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and stir in celery leaves just before serving.
nutritional information Per Serving: Calories: 79; Protein: 1 g; Total Fat: 4.5 g; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 216 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 5 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
Easter Recipes
Yes, it's a Double-Post Tuesday. Easter is this Sunday. Here are six recipes to try out for Easter - or at any time, for that matter, including Ham With Cola and Maple Glaze and Easter Bunny Cake. Enjoy!
Note: Since Sunday is Easter, there will be a double-posting on Confessions of a Foodie - the usual Diabetic Thursday post, and a second with Easter recipes. Enjoy!
HAM WITH COLA AND MAPLE GLAZE
This comes from Diana Rattray, About.com's Southern Food expert. She writes, "This is an easy and delicious glaze to use on your holiday dinner ham." Serves 8 to 10.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 fully cooked ham, about 6 to 8 pounds
whole cloves, optional
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup cola
1 tablespoon brown or Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preparation
Place ham, fat side up, on rack in a foil-lined roasting pan; score fat and stud with cloves, if desired. Cook at 325° for about 18 minutes per pound, until meat thermometer or instant read thermometer registers 148°. If your ham is labeled Ready to Cook, follow packaging directions. Combine maple syrup, brown sugar, cola, mustard, ginger, and cinnamon in saucepan; bring to a simmer and continue cooking over low heat for about 2 minutes. About 20 minutes before the ham is done, spoon about half of the glaze over top of ham, then about 10 minutes before done, spread remaining glaze over ham.
VEGAN GINGERED CARROT SOUP
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food expert. She writes, "Colorful and fragrant carrot and ginger soup is a light and soothing soup. Carrot soup with ginger is a nutritious and low fat soup recipe with just a touch of sweetness and a touch of spice." Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 yellow onion, diced
1/4 cup fresh ginger, minced
4 cups chopped and peeled carrots (about 1 1/2 pounds)
3 cups vegetable broth
1 1/2 cups orange juice
dash nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
In a large pot, sautee onions and ginger in olive oil until soft, about 3-5 minutes.Add carrots and vegetable broth and reduce heat to medium. Allow to simmer for about 40 minutes, or until carrots are soft.
Add orange juice and stir well.
Working in small batches and using a food processor or blender, process soup until smooth.
Return to pot or serving bowl and add nutmeg, salt and pepper, stirring well. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream if desired and enjoy!
HAM AND CHEESE IN PUFF PASTRY
This comes from Ina Garten, The Food Network's Barefoot Contessa. I know I'm a vegetarian, but Ina's food could make me almost start eating meat! Total Time: 50 min; Prep: 25 min; Cook: 25 min; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/ham-and-cheese-in-puff-pastry-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
1 package (2 sheets) frozen puff pastry, defrosted (recommended: Pepperidge Farm)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/4 pound black forest ham, sliced
1/2 pound Swiss Gruyere cheese, sliced
1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash
Directions
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Place a piece of parchment paper on a sheet pan.
Lay 1 sheet of puff pastry on a floured board and carefully roll it out to 10 by 12 inches. Place it on a sheet pan and brush the center with the mustard, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge. Place a layer first of ham and then cheese, also leaving a 1-inch border. Brush the border with the egg wash.
Place the second sheet of puff pastry on the floured board and roll it out to 10 by 12inches. Place the second sheet on top of the filled pastry, lining up the edges. Cut the edges straight with a small, sharp knife and press together lightly. Brush the top with egg wash and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes and serve hot or warm.
EASTER BUNNY CAKE
This comes from The Food Network. I've never quite figured out what, exactly, rabbits have to do with Easter, but that's beside the point. Maybe because baby rabbits are born in spring, and Easter is in spring? Who knows.
Here's my short semi-rant: If you're buying things for children for Easter (or any holiday, for that matter), don't make it an animal, even rabbits. The only exception is if the parent (if you're not the parent) says it's okay, and/or it's an animal that's been approved by the parents. If it's a rescue animal, even better. But it's really best to wait until after the holidays.
This cake looks cute (a photo is on the link for the recipe), and takes 1 hour total time. Yields 12 to 14 servings; level: intermediate.
Read more (and view photo) at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/easter-bunny-cake-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
Frosting:
3 sticks (12 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature
6 cups confectioners' sugar
Pinch fine salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 to 3 tablespoons milk
Bunny:
2 baked 9-inch round cake layers (your favorite recipe or a 18.25-ounce boxed cake mix)
1 1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut
2 store-bought biscotti
1 tube pink decorating icing
2 black jelly beans
2 marshmallows
1 white jelly bean, halved lengthwise
1 pink jelly bean
1 black licorice wheel, such as Haribo
Directions
For the frosting: Combine the butter, sugar and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or in a large bowl if using a hand-held electric mixer). Mix on low speed until mostly incorporated. Add the vanilla, increase the speed to medium-high and mix until smooth. Adjust the consistency with milk until the frosting is easy to spread.
For the bunny: Spread a thin layer of frosting on the flat side of one cake layer, about 2/3 cup, and top with the flat side of the second cake layer. Measure 5 inches across the top of the cake and cut down through the layers, creating two layered pieces that are slightly different sizes.
Place the larger piece of cake, cut-side down, on a large platter or cake board. If using a rectangular cake board, place the larger piece so that the long edges are parallel with the long edges of the board. This is the body of the bunny. Cut the smaller piece of cake in half crosswise, so you have two layered wedges. Place one wedge in front of the body, with one flat side on the board and the other flat side against the body. The curved side will be on top. Take a serrated knife and round off the sharp edges on top of the head. Cut the tip off (the nose) at a 45-degree angle. Reserve all scraps in a bowl.
Separate the layers of the remaining wedge of cake. These will be the back legs. Round the sharp edges of the cake wedges with your knife, and add to the scrap bowl. Place one piece on each side of the bunny, with one flat side down and the other flat side facing forward (the round side towards the back of the bunny), about 1-inch from the end of the bunny's body.
Mix the cake scraps in the bowl with a fork until mashed, and then pack into a ball with your hands. Place the ball behind the bunny's body and adhere with a dab of frosting. This is the bunny's tail.
Frost the entire bunny, tail and all, using 2 to 3 cups of the frosting, keeping some definition with the bunny parts, and frosting more generously around any sharp edges to give a rounded look to the bunny parts. Sprinkle the bunny with the coconut to fully cover. Gently pat to adhere.
Insert the biscotti between the head and body, pressing into the cake to secure them. These are the ears. Place the base of the ears close together at the center of the head and angle them out. Frost the front of each biscotti with some frosting. Then, using the pink decorating icing, frost a smaller strip in the center of each biscotti, going down to where the ears meet the head but not going all the way to the top.
To make the face, press a black jelly bean into each side of the head for the eyes. Cut one of the marshmallows into 3 circles, discard the middle piece, and press the 2 end circles, cut-sides-in, into the front of the face for the bunny cheeks. Take the white jelly bean halves and push them into face below the cheeks, round-sides-out, for the teeth. Place the pink jelly bean above for the nose.
Unroll the licorice wheel and cut 2 pieces about 1 1/2 inches long each. For each piece, peel the strips apart halfway down, and then cut each separated strip in half lengthwise so you end up with a piece looking a bit like a broom. Repeat with the second piece of licorice. Tuck each piece, with a dab of frosting, behind a marshmallow cheek, with the cut ends facing out, for the whiskers.
Cut the second marshmallow in half lengthwise. Make 3 slits in each half, going about halfway through (these are the toes), and place in front of the legs for the bunny's feet. Adhere the bottom of the feet with icing if necessary.
Cook's Note:
Take 2 1/2 sheets of parchment paper and cut in half. Line the edges of your cake board with these parchment rectangles so that they form a rectangle of open space in the middle. Build your cake on the edges of these pieces of parchment. When you are finished you can slide them away along with any excess icing and coconut.
Make sure your cakes are completely cooled before you being to ice and cut them.
CRANBERRY HOT CROSS BUNS
This recipe comes from the FamilyTime newsletter. It starts off, "Put a little twist in your hot cross buns by adding dried cranberries!" Prep. time: 20 minutes; Cooking time: 20; Serves: 12
This can be viewed online by clicking here.
Ingredients
18 Rhodes™ Dinner Rolls, thawed
12 tablespoons dried cranberries
Frosting:
1 1/3 cups Powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 - 2 tablespoons milk
Directions
With scissors, cut 6 rolls in half. Press 1 1/2 rolls into a flat circle. Put 1 tablespoon of cranberries on roll and bring edges together, mixing berries into the bough. Shap into a round roll. Place on a large sprayed baking sheet. Repeat directions for additional rolls. Cover with sprayed plastic wrap and let double in size. Remove wrap and bake at 350°F 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool. Mix ingredients for frosting and frost rolls.
SPINANCH LASAGNA WITH MUSHROOM RAGU
This is from The Food Network. Total Time: 4 hr.; Prep: 30 min; Cook: 3 hr. 30 min; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Easy
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/spinach-lasagna-with-mushroom-ragu-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
For the ragu:
1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 large carrot, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 portobello mushroom caps, chopped
1 1/2 pounds shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 28 -ounce cans whole San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
3 bay leaves
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the lasagna:
3 ounces parmesan cheese, grated
1 1/2 pounds part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
8 ounces asiago cheese, shredded
2 pounds ricotta cheese
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 pound frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
12 ounces dried lasagna noodles
Directions
Make the ragu: Soak the porcini mushrooms in 1 cup hot water until soft, about 15 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl. Chop; reserve the liquid.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot and celery and cook until soft, 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook, stirring, 2 more minutes. Add the portobello and shiitake mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; cook, stirring, until the mushrooms are soft, 5 more minutes.
Add the porcini mushrooms; cook 2 minutes. Add the reserved porcini liquid, bring to a boil and cook until reduced slightly, about 3 minutes. Add the tomatoes and their juice, 2 cups water and the bay leaves; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium low, add the parsley and 1 teaspoon salt and simmer, stirring a few times, until thick, about 1 hour, 30 minutes. Discard the bay leaves. (You can make the ragu up to 1 day ahead; let cool, then cover and chill. Reheat before using.)
Make the lasagna filling: Mix the parmesan, mozzarella and asiago; set 1 1/2 cups of the cheese mixture aside. Combine the remaining cheese mixture in a large bowl with the ricotta, eggs, spinach, nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook as the label directs. Drain and rinse under cold water; shake off the excess water.
Spread 1 cup of the ragu in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, then half of the spinach mixture and 2 cups ragu. Repeat with another layer of noodles, spinach mixture and ragu. Top with the remaining noodles and ragu and sprinkle with the reserved cheese. Cover with foil, place on a baking sheet and bake 50 minutes. Uncover and bake until golden, about 25 more minutes. Let rest before serving.
Note: Since Sunday is Easter, there will be a double-posting on Confessions of a Foodie - the usual Diabetic Thursday post, and a second with Easter recipes. Enjoy!
HAM WITH COLA AND MAPLE GLAZE
This comes from Diana Rattray, About.com's Southern Food expert. She writes, "This is an easy and delicious glaze to use on your holiday dinner ham." Serves 8 to 10.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 fully cooked ham, about 6 to 8 pounds
whole cloves, optional
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup cola
1 tablespoon brown or Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preparation
Place ham, fat side up, on rack in a foil-lined roasting pan; score fat and stud with cloves, if desired. Cook at 325° for about 18 minutes per pound, until meat thermometer or instant read thermometer registers 148°. If your ham is labeled Ready to Cook, follow packaging directions. Combine maple syrup, brown sugar, cola, mustard, ginger, and cinnamon in saucepan; bring to a simmer and continue cooking over low heat for about 2 minutes. About 20 minutes before the ham is done, spoon about half of the glaze over top of ham, then about 10 minutes before done, spread remaining glaze over ham.
VEGAN GINGERED CARROT SOUP
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food expert. She writes, "Colorful and fragrant carrot and ginger soup is a light and soothing soup. Carrot soup with ginger is a nutritious and low fat soup recipe with just a touch of sweetness and a touch of spice." Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 yellow onion, diced
1/4 cup fresh ginger, minced
4 cups chopped and peeled carrots (about 1 1/2 pounds)
3 cups vegetable broth
1 1/2 cups orange juice
dash nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
In a large pot, sautee onions and ginger in olive oil until soft, about 3-5 minutes.Add carrots and vegetable broth and reduce heat to medium. Allow to simmer for about 40 minutes, or until carrots are soft.
Add orange juice and stir well.
Working in small batches and using a food processor or blender, process soup until smooth.
Return to pot or serving bowl and add nutmeg, salt and pepper, stirring well. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream if desired and enjoy!
HAM AND CHEESE IN PUFF PASTRY
This comes from Ina Garten, The Food Network's Barefoot Contessa. I know I'm a vegetarian, but Ina's food could make me almost start eating meat! Total Time: 50 min; Prep: 25 min; Cook: 25 min; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/ham-and-cheese-in-puff-pastry-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
1 package (2 sheets) frozen puff pastry, defrosted (recommended: Pepperidge Farm)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/4 pound black forest ham, sliced
1/2 pound Swiss Gruyere cheese, sliced
1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash
Directions
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Place a piece of parchment paper on a sheet pan.
Lay 1 sheet of puff pastry on a floured board and carefully roll it out to 10 by 12 inches. Place it on a sheet pan and brush the center with the mustard, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge. Place a layer first of ham and then cheese, also leaving a 1-inch border. Brush the border with the egg wash.
Place the second sheet of puff pastry on the floured board and roll it out to 10 by 12inches. Place the second sheet on top of the filled pastry, lining up the edges. Cut the edges straight with a small, sharp knife and press together lightly. Brush the top with egg wash and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes and serve hot or warm.
EASTER BUNNY CAKE
This comes from The Food Network. I've never quite figured out what, exactly, rabbits have to do with Easter, but that's beside the point. Maybe because baby rabbits are born in spring, and Easter is in spring? Who knows.
Here's my short semi-rant: If you're buying things for children for Easter (or any holiday, for that matter), don't make it an animal, even rabbits. The only exception is if the parent (if you're not the parent) says it's okay, and/or it's an animal that's been approved by the parents. If it's a rescue animal, even better. But it's really best to wait until after the holidays.
This cake looks cute (a photo is on the link for the recipe), and takes 1 hour total time. Yields 12 to 14 servings; level: intermediate.
Read more (and view photo) at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/easter-bunny-cake-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
Frosting:
3 sticks (12 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature
6 cups confectioners' sugar
Pinch fine salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 to 3 tablespoons milk
Bunny:
2 baked 9-inch round cake layers (your favorite recipe or a 18.25-ounce boxed cake mix)
1 1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut
2 store-bought biscotti
1 tube pink decorating icing
2 black jelly beans
2 marshmallows
1 white jelly bean, halved lengthwise
1 pink jelly bean
1 black licorice wheel, such as Haribo
Directions
For the frosting: Combine the butter, sugar and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or in a large bowl if using a hand-held electric mixer). Mix on low speed until mostly incorporated. Add the vanilla, increase the speed to medium-high and mix until smooth. Adjust the consistency with milk until the frosting is easy to spread.
For the bunny: Spread a thin layer of frosting on the flat side of one cake layer, about 2/3 cup, and top with the flat side of the second cake layer. Measure 5 inches across the top of the cake and cut down through the layers, creating two layered pieces that are slightly different sizes.
Place the larger piece of cake, cut-side down, on a large platter or cake board. If using a rectangular cake board, place the larger piece so that the long edges are parallel with the long edges of the board. This is the body of the bunny. Cut the smaller piece of cake in half crosswise, so you have two layered wedges. Place one wedge in front of the body, with one flat side on the board and the other flat side against the body. The curved side will be on top. Take a serrated knife and round off the sharp edges on top of the head. Cut the tip off (the nose) at a 45-degree angle. Reserve all scraps in a bowl.
Separate the layers of the remaining wedge of cake. These will be the back legs. Round the sharp edges of the cake wedges with your knife, and add to the scrap bowl. Place one piece on each side of the bunny, with one flat side down and the other flat side facing forward (the round side towards the back of the bunny), about 1-inch from the end of the bunny's body.
Mix the cake scraps in the bowl with a fork until mashed, and then pack into a ball with your hands. Place the ball behind the bunny's body and adhere with a dab of frosting. This is the bunny's tail.
Frost the entire bunny, tail and all, using 2 to 3 cups of the frosting, keeping some definition with the bunny parts, and frosting more generously around any sharp edges to give a rounded look to the bunny parts. Sprinkle the bunny with the coconut to fully cover. Gently pat to adhere.
Insert the biscotti between the head and body, pressing into the cake to secure them. These are the ears. Place the base of the ears close together at the center of the head and angle them out. Frost the front of each biscotti with some frosting. Then, using the pink decorating icing, frost a smaller strip in the center of each biscotti, going down to where the ears meet the head but not going all the way to the top.
To make the face, press a black jelly bean into each side of the head for the eyes. Cut one of the marshmallows into 3 circles, discard the middle piece, and press the 2 end circles, cut-sides-in, into the front of the face for the bunny cheeks. Take the white jelly bean halves and push them into face below the cheeks, round-sides-out, for the teeth. Place the pink jelly bean above for the nose.
Unroll the licorice wheel and cut 2 pieces about 1 1/2 inches long each. For each piece, peel the strips apart halfway down, and then cut each separated strip in half lengthwise so you end up with a piece looking a bit like a broom. Repeat with the second piece of licorice. Tuck each piece, with a dab of frosting, behind a marshmallow cheek, with the cut ends facing out, for the whiskers.
Cut the second marshmallow in half lengthwise. Make 3 slits in each half, going about halfway through (these are the toes), and place in front of the legs for the bunny's feet. Adhere the bottom of the feet with icing if necessary.
Cook's Note:
Take 2 1/2 sheets of parchment paper and cut in half. Line the edges of your cake board with these parchment rectangles so that they form a rectangle of open space in the middle. Build your cake on the edges of these pieces of parchment. When you are finished you can slide them away along with any excess icing and coconut.
Make sure your cakes are completely cooled before you being to ice and cut them.
CRANBERRY HOT CROSS BUNS
This recipe comes from the FamilyTime newsletter. It starts off, "Put a little twist in your hot cross buns by adding dried cranberries!" Prep. time: 20 minutes; Cooking time: 20; Serves: 12
This can be viewed online by clicking here.
Ingredients
18 Rhodes™ Dinner Rolls, thawed
12 tablespoons dried cranberries
Frosting:
1 1/3 cups Powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 - 2 tablespoons milk
Directions
With scissors, cut 6 rolls in half. Press 1 1/2 rolls into a flat circle. Put 1 tablespoon of cranberries on roll and bring edges together, mixing berries into the bough. Shap into a round roll. Place on a large sprayed baking sheet. Repeat directions for additional rolls. Cover with sprayed plastic wrap and let double in size. Remove wrap and bake at 350°F 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool. Mix ingredients for frosting and frost rolls.
SPINANCH LASAGNA WITH MUSHROOM RAGU
This is from The Food Network. Total Time: 4 hr.; Prep: 30 min; Cook: 3 hr. 30 min; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Easy
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/spinach-lasagna-with-mushroom-ragu-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
For the ragu:
1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 large carrot, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 portobello mushroom caps, chopped
1 1/2 pounds shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 28 -ounce cans whole San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
3 bay leaves
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the lasagna:
3 ounces parmesan cheese, grated
1 1/2 pounds part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
8 ounces asiago cheese, shredded
2 pounds ricotta cheese
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 pound frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
12 ounces dried lasagna noodles
Directions
Make the ragu: Soak the porcini mushrooms in 1 cup hot water until soft, about 15 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl. Chop; reserve the liquid.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot and celery and cook until soft, 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook, stirring, 2 more minutes. Add the portobello and shiitake mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; cook, stirring, until the mushrooms are soft, 5 more minutes.
Add the porcini mushrooms; cook 2 minutes. Add the reserved porcini liquid, bring to a boil and cook until reduced slightly, about 3 minutes. Add the tomatoes and their juice, 2 cups water and the bay leaves; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium low, add the parsley and 1 teaspoon salt and simmer, stirring a few times, until thick, about 1 hour, 30 minutes. Discard the bay leaves. (You can make the ragu up to 1 day ahead; let cool, then cover and chill. Reheat before using.)
Make the lasagna filling: Mix the parmesan, mozzarella and asiago; set 1 1/2 cups of the cheese mixture aside. Combine the remaining cheese mixture in a large bowl with the ricotta, eggs, spinach, nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook as the label directs. Drain and rinse under cold water; shake off the excess water.
Spread 1 cup of the ragu in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, then half of the spinach mixture and 2 cups ragu. Repeat with another layer of noodles, spinach mixture and ragu. Top with the remaining noodles and ragu and sprinkle with the reserved cheese. Cover with foil, place on a baking sheet and bake 50 minutes. Uncover and bake until golden, about 25 more minutes. Let rest before serving.
Taco Tuesday
It's Tuesday, which, besides being a Double-Post Tuesday, means Taco Tuesday. Here are six taco recipes to help you through the day, including Cauliflower and Red Onion Tacos and Steak Carnitas Meat in the Crockpot. Enjoy!
SEITAN TACOS
This is from FoodFanatic, and begins, “Seitan tacos made with citrus and herb are a fantastic vegetarian idea. These tacos are a fantastic addition to Taco Week!” Makes 4 servings; Serving Size: 2 tacos; Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
8 ounces seitan strips, 1 package
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 jalapeños, deseeded and minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons sour cream
3 tablespoons canola oil
1 large tomato, diced
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or corn taco shells
Directions
Drain the seitan strips and toss them with the garlic, jalapenos, cumin, chili powder, and onions in a small bowl. Set aside.
Combine the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, parsley, cilantro and honey in a blender and mix until combined. Whisk in the sour cream. Set aside.
In a medium skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the seitan mixture and cook until the seitan has browned and the onions are soft.
Assemble the tacos with the seitan mixture, tomatoes, spinach and cheese.
Spoon the citrus dressing over the tacos. Alternatively, because it is very liquid, you can also coat the cooked seitan mixture with the desired amount of dressing before taco assembly.
Notes
I used a thyme flavored honey which added to the herby flavor of the dressing.
Make sure the jalapeno is actually spicy. This dish is better with a little kick!
CAULIFLOWER AND RED ONION TACOS
This also comes from Martha Rose Shulman in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Martha wrote, “Vegetables bathed in vinegar are typical condiments in Mexico, but you can bring them to the center of the plate as a filling for a taco. If you want spice, add the chipotle, or garnish with some salsa. If salt is an issue, use ranchero rather than cotija cheese.” Yield: 6 servings; Time: About 45 minutes.
This was also featured in “Tacos for the Holidays” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 large or 2 small or medium cauliflowers, broken into florets (about 6 cups)
1 red onion, cut in half lengthwise, then sliced crosswise across the grain
1 to 2 garlic cloves (to taste), minced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup white wine vinegar or Champagne vinegar (to taste)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 or 2 chipotle chilies in adobo or pickled jalapeños, drained and thinly sliced (optional)
12 corn tortillas
1 romaine heart, cut crosswise in thin strips (chiffonade)
3 ounces cotija or ranchero cheese
Preparation
Step 1
Place the cauliflower and onion in a steaming basket over 1 inch of boiling water. Cover and steam 1 minute. Lift the lid for 15 seconds, then cover again and steam for 5 to 8 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender. Refresh with cold water and drain on paper towels.
In a large bowl, mix together the garlic, cilantro, capers, vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add the cauliflower and onion and toss together. Marinate, stirring from time to time, for 30 minutes if possible before serving. For an added kick, stir in the chili or chilies. Transfer the mixture to a skillet and heat through over medium heat.
Warm the tortillas. Top with the marinated vegetables and a handful of romaine, sprinkle on the cheese and serve.
Tip
Advance preparation: You can make the cauliflower and onion mixture up to a day ahead, but omit the cilantro until shortly before serving so that its color doesn't fade. The filling keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
CRUNCHY BLACK BEAN TACOS
This comes from The Kitchn’s e-newsletter. If you haven’t signed up for The Kitchn’s e-newsletter yet, I highly recommend that, as well as its sibling site, Apartment Therapy.
This recipe serves 3 to 4, or makes 8 tacos; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes and can be found online by clicking here.
2 cups cooked black beans
1/2 cup minced red onion
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Pinch of salt
4 to 6 ounces (1 heaping cup) grated Pepper Jack cheese
2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
8 corn tortillas
Toppings
Avocado
Hot sauce
Salsa
Sour cream
In a medium bowl, add beans along with red onion, cilantro, cumin, and paprika. Add a pinch of salt and lightly mash all the ingredients together. Grate the cheese and have it ready as well.
In a large, nonstick or cast-iron skillet, add the 2 tablespoons oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add one corn tortilla at a time and let each get hot in the oil for a few seconds. Then add about 1/4 cup of the bean filling to one half of the tortilla. Top with a sprinkle of grated cheese. Try not to overfill the tacos, or you might have issues flipping them without losing filling.
Using a spatula, carefully fold the other half of the tortilla over to form a shell. Press down lightly on the tortilla so it holds its shape. If some cheese spills out, don’t worry — it will get crispy and delicious.
As the first taco cooks, move it to the side and begin a second one. Depending on the size of your pan, you can cook two or three tacos at once. A griddle will hold even more.
Cook each taco until they are nicely browned and crispy, about 3 minutes per side. When flipping the taco to cook on the other side, use a spatula and flip the taco toward the fold so the filling doesn’t fall out. If your pan is very dry between batches, add another drizzle of oil.
Place the cooked tacos in a warm oven while you finish the rest. If the tacos are very greasy, blot them with a paper towel before moving them to the oven.
Serve tacos with toppings like hot sauce, salsa, avocados, and sour cream.
Recipe Notes:
Corn tortillas are resilient to heat. Don’t worry about burning them; they are very sturdy. Just be sure to cook tortillas on each side long enough to get them really crispy.
STEAK CARNITAS MEAT IN THE CROCKPOT
I originally found this at NoshOn.it; the link to this is at http://noshon.it/recipes/crockpot-steak-carnitas-tacos/ and takes you here. (Bless this Mess, run by “food lover, chicken wrangler, house builder, goodness seeker, mom of 5” Melissa Griffiths, looks like a really good place for more recipes. Check it out!)
This recipe Serves 6-8.
Ingredients
For the spice rub:
1 T. chili powder
1 1/2 tsp cumin or smoked cumin
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, or more to taste
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 lbs flank steak
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
Serving Options:
Corn tortillas
Shredded lettuce
Grated cheese
Tomato
Sour cream
Salsa
Instructions
Mix all of the spice together in a small bowl for the spice rub. Rub the spices into each side of the steak, using all of the mixture.
Place the spice rubbed-steak in the bottom of the crock pot. Place the chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno on top of the steak. Cook for on low for 7 to 8 hours.
After the cooking time has lapsed, remove the steak from the crock pot and shred with two forks. Serve immediately or return to the crock pot for a few hours until you are ready to eat.
Serve on corn tortillas with your favorite topping.
Notes
Flank steak is generally a tougher, and therefore cheaper piece of meat. It's a great candidate for the crock pot. I actually have used everything from elk steaks, lamb, and pork and loved them all in this recipe. Use what you have on hand or what's on sale... if it's a leaner cut of meat you may need to add a bit of beef stock at the end to make sure it doesn't dry out before cooking.
TACO SALAD WITH CUMIN DRESSING
Servings: 8
Source: The Diabetic Newsletter
Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/41.shtml
Ingredients
8 tortillas
1 teaspoon powdered mustard
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon ground cumin
8 cups romaine lettuce
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
4 cups cooked turkey, chopped
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
6 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
4 teaspoons lemon juice
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
Directions
Toast the tortillas on a baking sheet in a 400F oven for about 10 minutes.
While hot, sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese.
Cool and break into bite-size pieces.
Chop the lettuce and arrange it in the bottom of a salad bowl.
Make the cumin dressing by combining the salt, vinegar, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, mustard, cumin, water and oil in a bowl or jar.
Heat the turkey in a skillet with the cumin seeds.
Sprinkle chunks of turkey over the lettuce.
Add the tomato pieces and cheese.
Pour on the cumin dressing and top with tortilla chips.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Protein: 17 g; Fat: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 1 Fat; 1/2 Bread/Starch; 1/2 Vegetable; 2 Lean Meat
WHITE BEAN AND POTATO TACOS (GLUTEN FREE AND VEGAN)
A while back, I stumbled across Oh My Veggies. They have all sorts of yummy veggie recipes, including a bunch of taco links.
This taco recipe, which was among the taco links on Oh My Veggies, is from Beard & Bonnet. Beard & Bonnet’s Meg van der Kruik is “the writer, mother, photographer, designer, cook and creative spirit behind Beard & Bonnet.”
This can be viewed online at http://beardandbonnet.com/white-bean-and-potato-tacos-gluten-free-and-vegan/.
Serves 4; Prep Time: 20 min
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white beans, I used Navy beans, or 1 can of cannelini beans, washed and drained
4-5 small potatoes, unpeeled, scrubbed, and cut into tiny cubes (or 1 large russet potato)
1/2 cup cilantro, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lime
Olive oil for frying
salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
To assemble
6-8 white corn tortillas, blistered on both sides in a cast iron skillet
pickled jalapenos & radishes
cherry tomatoes, halved; I used Sungold cherry tomatoes from my CSA
lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Pour about 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the potatoes and a large pinch of salt, toss to coat and cover with a tight fitting lid. The potatoes will take about 5-8 minutes to cook through. Be sure to periodically lift the lid, scrape the pan, and toss the potatoes to ensure that all sides are crisp and golden.
While the potatoes are cooking toss the precooked, warmed, white beans with the chopped cilantro, lime zest, and juice. Mix well to combine and set aside.
When the potatoes are finished cooking set up an assembly line at your table with the tortillas, potatoes, white beans, and toppings. Allow your family to each build there own to suit their tastes.
SEITAN TACOS
This is from FoodFanatic, and begins, “Seitan tacos made with citrus and herb are a fantastic vegetarian idea. These tacos are a fantastic addition to Taco Week!” Makes 4 servings; Serving Size: 2 tacos; Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
8 ounces seitan strips, 1 package
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 jalapeños, deseeded and minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons sour cream
3 tablespoons canola oil
1 large tomato, diced
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or corn taco shells
Directions
Drain the seitan strips and toss them with the garlic, jalapenos, cumin, chili powder, and onions in a small bowl. Set aside.
Combine the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, parsley, cilantro and honey in a blender and mix until combined. Whisk in the sour cream. Set aside.
In a medium skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the seitan mixture and cook until the seitan has browned and the onions are soft.
Assemble the tacos with the seitan mixture, tomatoes, spinach and cheese.
Spoon the citrus dressing over the tacos. Alternatively, because it is very liquid, you can also coat the cooked seitan mixture with the desired amount of dressing before taco assembly.
Notes
I used a thyme flavored honey which added to the herby flavor of the dressing.
Make sure the jalapeno is actually spicy. This dish is better with a little kick!
CAULIFLOWER AND RED ONION TACOS
This also comes from Martha Rose Shulman in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Martha wrote, “Vegetables bathed in vinegar are typical condiments in Mexico, but you can bring them to the center of the plate as a filling for a taco. If you want spice, add the chipotle, or garnish with some salsa. If salt is an issue, use ranchero rather than cotija cheese.” Yield: 6 servings; Time: About 45 minutes.
This was also featured in “Tacos for the Holidays” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 large or 2 small or medium cauliflowers, broken into florets (about 6 cups)
1 red onion, cut in half lengthwise, then sliced crosswise across the grain
1 to 2 garlic cloves (to taste), minced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup white wine vinegar or Champagne vinegar (to taste)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 or 2 chipotle chilies in adobo or pickled jalapeños, drained and thinly sliced (optional)
12 corn tortillas
1 romaine heart, cut crosswise in thin strips (chiffonade)
3 ounces cotija or ranchero cheese
Preparation
Step 1
Place the cauliflower and onion in a steaming basket over 1 inch of boiling water. Cover and steam 1 minute. Lift the lid for 15 seconds, then cover again and steam for 5 to 8 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender. Refresh with cold water and drain on paper towels.
In a large bowl, mix together the garlic, cilantro, capers, vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add the cauliflower and onion and toss together. Marinate, stirring from time to time, for 30 minutes if possible before serving. For an added kick, stir in the chili or chilies. Transfer the mixture to a skillet and heat through over medium heat.
Warm the tortillas. Top with the marinated vegetables and a handful of romaine, sprinkle on the cheese and serve.
Tip
Advance preparation: You can make the cauliflower and onion mixture up to a day ahead, but omit the cilantro until shortly before serving so that its color doesn't fade. The filling keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
CRUNCHY BLACK BEAN TACOS
This comes from The Kitchn’s e-newsletter. If you haven’t signed up for The Kitchn’s e-newsletter yet, I highly recommend that, as well as its sibling site, Apartment Therapy.
This recipe serves 3 to 4, or makes 8 tacos; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes and can be found online by clicking here.
2 cups cooked black beans
1/2 cup minced red onion
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Pinch of salt
4 to 6 ounces (1 heaping cup) grated Pepper Jack cheese
2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
8 corn tortillas
Toppings
Avocado
Hot sauce
Salsa
Sour cream
In a medium bowl, add beans along with red onion, cilantro, cumin, and paprika. Add a pinch of salt and lightly mash all the ingredients together. Grate the cheese and have it ready as well.
In a large, nonstick or cast-iron skillet, add the 2 tablespoons oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add one corn tortilla at a time and let each get hot in the oil for a few seconds. Then add about 1/4 cup of the bean filling to one half of the tortilla. Top with a sprinkle of grated cheese. Try not to overfill the tacos, or you might have issues flipping them without losing filling.
Using a spatula, carefully fold the other half of the tortilla over to form a shell. Press down lightly on the tortilla so it holds its shape. If some cheese spills out, don’t worry — it will get crispy and delicious.
As the first taco cooks, move it to the side and begin a second one. Depending on the size of your pan, you can cook two or three tacos at once. A griddle will hold even more.
Cook each taco until they are nicely browned and crispy, about 3 minutes per side. When flipping the taco to cook on the other side, use a spatula and flip the taco toward the fold so the filling doesn’t fall out. If your pan is very dry between batches, add another drizzle of oil.
Place the cooked tacos in a warm oven while you finish the rest. If the tacos are very greasy, blot them with a paper towel before moving them to the oven.
Serve tacos with toppings like hot sauce, salsa, avocados, and sour cream.
Recipe Notes:
Corn tortillas are resilient to heat. Don’t worry about burning them; they are very sturdy. Just be sure to cook tortillas on each side long enough to get them really crispy.
STEAK CARNITAS MEAT IN THE CROCKPOT
I originally found this at NoshOn.it; the link to this is at http://noshon.it/recipes/crockpot-steak-carnitas-tacos/ and takes you here. (Bless this Mess, run by “food lover, chicken wrangler, house builder, goodness seeker, mom of 5” Melissa Griffiths, looks like a really good place for more recipes. Check it out!)
This recipe Serves 6-8.
Ingredients
For the spice rub:
1 T. chili powder
1 1/2 tsp cumin or smoked cumin
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, or more to taste
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 lbs flank steak
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
Serving Options:
Corn tortillas
Shredded lettuce
Grated cheese
Tomato
Sour cream
Salsa
Instructions
Mix all of the spice together in a small bowl for the spice rub. Rub the spices into each side of the steak, using all of the mixture.
Place the spice rubbed-steak in the bottom of the crock pot. Place the chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno on top of the steak. Cook for on low for 7 to 8 hours.
After the cooking time has lapsed, remove the steak from the crock pot and shred with two forks. Serve immediately or return to the crock pot for a few hours until you are ready to eat.
Serve on corn tortillas with your favorite topping.
Notes
Flank steak is generally a tougher, and therefore cheaper piece of meat. It's a great candidate for the crock pot. I actually have used everything from elk steaks, lamb, and pork and loved them all in this recipe. Use what you have on hand or what's on sale... if it's a leaner cut of meat you may need to add a bit of beef stock at the end to make sure it doesn't dry out before cooking.
TACO SALAD WITH CUMIN DRESSING
Servings: 8
Source: The Diabetic Newsletter
Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/41.shtml
Ingredients
8 tortillas
1 teaspoon powdered mustard
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon ground cumin
8 cups romaine lettuce
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
4 cups cooked turkey, chopped
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
6 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
4 teaspoons lemon juice
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
Directions
Toast the tortillas on a baking sheet in a 400F oven for about 10 minutes.
While hot, sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese.
Cool and break into bite-size pieces.
Chop the lettuce and arrange it in the bottom of a salad bowl.
Make the cumin dressing by combining the salt, vinegar, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, mustard, cumin, water and oil in a bowl or jar.
Heat the turkey in a skillet with the cumin seeds.
Sprinkle chunks of turkey over the lettuce.
Add the tomato pieces and cheese.
Pour on the cumin dressing and top with tortilla chips.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Protein: 17 g; Fat: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 1 Fat; 1/2 Bread/Starch; 1/2 Vegetable; 2 Lean Meat
WHITE BEAN AND POTATO TACOS (GLUTEN FREE AND VEGAN)
A while back, I stumbled across Oh My Veggies. They have all sorts of yummy veggie recipes, including a bunch of taco links.
This taco recipe, which was among the taco links on Oh My Veggies, is from Beard & Bonnet. Beard & Bonnet’s Meg van der Kruik is “the writer, mother, photographer, designer, cook and creative spirit behind Beard & Bonnet.”
This can be viewed online at http://beardandbonnet.com/white-bean-and-potato-tacos-gluten-free-and-vegan/.
Serves 4; Prep Time: 20 min
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white beans, I used Navy beans, or 1 can of cannelini beans, washed and drained
4-5 small potatoes, unpeeled, scrubbed, and cut into tiny cubes (or 1 large russet potato)
1/2 cup cilantro, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lime
Olive oil for frying
salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
To assemble
6-8 white corn tortillas, blistered on both sides in a cast iron skillet
pickled jalapenos & radishes
cherry tomatoes, halved; I used Sungold cherry tomatoes from my CSA
lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Pour about 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the potatoes and a large pinch of salt, toss to coat and cover with a tight fitting lid. The potatoes will take about 5-8 minutes to cook through. Be sure to periodically lift the lid, scrape the pan, and toss the potatoes to ensure that all sides are crisp and golden.
While the potatoes are cooking toss the precooked, warmed, white beans with the chopped cilantro, lime zest, and juice. Mix well to combine and set aside.
When the potatoes are finished cooking set up an assembly line at your table with the tortillas, potatoes, white beans, and toppings. Allow your family to each build there own to suit their tastes.
Monday, April 10, 2017
Meatless Monday - Mexican Recipes
Since Monday is usually Meatless Monday, I'm doing a Double-Post Monday. Here are six vegetarian Mexican recipes to get your week started, including Tortilla Lasagna and Wild Mushroom Quesadillas. Enjoy!
FARROW BLACK BEANS MEXICAN BOWL [VEGAN]
This recipe comes from One Green Planet, and begins, “My idea was to make a one pan, flavorful, Mexican meal – so I flavored the warm oil with garlic and oregano first and then mixed in the rest of the ingredients except lettuce and avocados. I love the fresh and crunchy texture of lettuce, and fresh sliced avocados give this Farro Black Beans Mexican Bowl a light creamy texture. Serve this healthy, nutritious and vegan Mexican bowl to yourself and feel the happiness and energy flowing in your body.” Cook Time: 10 minutes; Serves: 4; Calories: 435
To view this online, go to http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/farro-black-beans-mexican-bowl/.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chopped garlic
2 tsp oregan
1 cup red onions (chopped)
1 cup green bell pepper (chopped)
1 tbsp jalapeno pepper (seeds removed and chopped)
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
3 roma tomatoes (blanched, peeled and mashed)
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 cup sweet corn kernels
1 15 oz. can black beans (rinsed and drained)
1 1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp lime juice
2 cups farrow (cooked)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 whole avocado (seed removed and sliced/chopped
Preparation
Heat oil in a nonstick pan and add garlic, oregano and onions. Saute well.
Add green bell pepper, jalapeno, cilantro, tomatoes. Mix, cover and cook for 2 minutes.
Add sugar, corn, black beans, salt, lime juice.
Mix very well and cover and cook for 3 – 4 minutes.
Lastly add farro and mix well so that farro is properly coated and turn off the flame.
In a serving bowl/plate empty the pan. Top it with lettuce and avocado and serve.
CORN SALSA
This yummy salsa comes from country singer Trisha Yearwood on The Food Network's website. Total Time: 1 hr. 15 minutes; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Inactive: 1 hour; Yield: Servings: about 5 cups; Level: easy
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/trisha-yearwood/corn-salsa0.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
1 15 -ounce can yellow corn, drained
1 15-ounce can white corn, drained
1 4-ounce can chopped green chiles, drained
1 2 .5-ounce can sliced black olives, drained
4 scallions, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
3 tablespoons white vinegar
1/3 cup olive oil
Kosher salt
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
Mix the yellow and white corn, chiles, olives, scallions, tomatoes, jalapenos, vinegar, olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Chill at least 1 hour.
Just before serving, add the cilantro to the salsa.
WILD MUSHROOM QUESADILLAS
Maybe it’s just me, but I’ve always been a little leery about going out picking wild mushrooms. I wasn’t wild about mushrooms as a kid, but I’ve grown to just about like them. But wild mushrooms? Nah-ah, no thanks. I’ve heard too many horror stories…
That said, this comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times cooking email. Kim wrote, “You don't have to use wild mushrooms, of course, but if you can get chanterelles — oh man. It takes a bit of time at the stove, but when the quesadilla is done, you have a great handheld food that is, among other things, very kid friendly.” Phew! Thank you, Kim, for adding that disclaimer about not having to use wild mushrooms!!!
This recipe yields 8 servings (Time: 30 minutes) and was featured in “THE CHEF: TRACI DES JARDINS; Tortillas Let a Cook Come Home Again”. It can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound chanterelles, black trumpet or other wild mushrooms (or substitute oyster, crimini or clamshell mushrooms; do not use shiitake), roughly chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup minced yellow onion
4 ounces grated Oaxaca or domestic Muenster cheese
4 ounces grated panela or aged mozzarella cheese
4 ounces grated cotija or Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch of ground coriander
8 8-inch flour or corn tortillas, preferably homemade (recipe follows)
Preparation
Place a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. When oil shimmers, add mushrooms and a generous pinch of salt. Sauté until mushrooms release their liquid, liquid evaporates and mushrooms begin to brown, about 10 minutes.
Add onions. Sauté, adjusting heat as necessary, until onions are soft and entire mixture is golden brown but not burned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Using a food processor or a knife, finely chop mushroom-onion mixture, then transfer to a large bowl. Add grated cheeses, cilantro, oregano and coriander. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place a large nonstick or well-seasoned skillet over medium heat, and add remaining 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. While pan heats, place a large spoonful of mushroom-cheese mixture into center of a tortilla, and fold tortilla in half to make a half-moon. Place filled tortilla in preheated skillet and cook, turning once, until tortilla is nicely browned on both sides and cheese is melted. Repeat to make 8 filled tortillas. Serve immediately.
GRANDMA SALAZAR’S TORTILLAS
This also comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times cooking email. Kim wrote, “This recipe for flour tortillas came to The Times in 2005 from Traci Des Jardins, a San Francisco chef whose heritage is Cajun on one side and Mexican on the other, via her maternal grandmother, Angela Salazar...These make for really delicious tortillas.” Kim had added, “You’ll see ‘bacon drippings’ in the ingredients.” I've omitted the bacon drippings, as well as lard (it originally read ‘bacon drippings, lard or vegetable shortening’) and left it as simply the vegetable shortening.
Makes 12 8-inch tortillas.
This was featured in “THE CHEF: TRACI DES JARDINS; Tortillas Let a Cook Come Home Again” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
Preparation
In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add bacon drippings and mix by hand or with a pastry cutter until mixture is crumbly. Slowly mix in 1 cup cold water. Add just enough additional water (about 1/3 cup) to make a smooth, slightly sticky dough.
Divide dough into 12 balls of equal size. Place on a board or baking sheet and cover with a kitchen towel; allow to rest for at least 20 minutes or up to an hour.
On a lightly floured surface, roll tortillas into 8-inch rounds. Place between sheets of waxed paper. At this point dough may be covered and refrigerated until cooking time, or used immediately.
Heat a griddle over medium heat. Remove tortillas from waxed paper and cook one at a time until puffy and slightly brown, about 30 seconds a side. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel to keep warm until serving.
PIPIAN MOLE PUMPKIN ENCHILADAS
This is from Vegetarian Times, and begins, "Pipian mole, a Mexican sauce made with pumpkin seeds (pepitas) and fresh greens, is used to flavor squash-stuffed enchiladas. For extra protein, you can add 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans to the enchilada filling." Makes 8 enchiladas.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Pipian Mole
1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
2 cups packed cilantro leaves
3 cloves garlic, peeled
2 tbs. olive oil
7 tomatillos (1 Ib.), quartered
1 large white onion, cut into chunks
1 serrano chile, halved and seeded
1 1/2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1/2 cup epazote leaves, radish leaves or arugula
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
Enchiladas
2 lbs. fresh pumpkin, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (4 cups)
4 small yellow squash, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
8 8-inch flour tortillas
8 oz. queso fresco
2 oz. grated Monterey Jack cheese, optional
1 cup fresh prepared salsa, optional
Instructions
Toast pumpkin seeds in skillet over medium heat, or until they pop, puff, and turn golden brown. Transfer to paper towel to cool.
Blend pumpkin seeds, cilantro, and garlic in food processor 1 to 2 minutes, or until finely chopped and paste starts to form. Transfer to bowl, and set aside.
Heat oil in large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add tomatillos, onion, and serrano chile, and cook 7 to 10 minutes, or until beginning to brown. Transfer to food processor and blend until smooth, adding lettuce and epazote leaves, radish leaves, or arugula.
Add 1/2 cup broth to pan, and bring to a simmer to deglaze pan. Stir in remaining broth, oregano, tomatillo mixture, and pumpkin-seed mixture; season with salt and pepper, if desired. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes, or until mixture has thickened.
To make Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 350˚F.
Remove 2 1/2 cups of Pipian Mole from pan, and set aside. Add pumpkin and squash to remaining Pipian Mole in pan, cover, and simmer 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, spread 1 cup reserved Pipian Mole in 9- x 13-inch baking dish.
Spread 3/4 cup pumpkin mixture in center of each tortilla, sprinkle with 1 Tbs. queso fresco, roll into tight cylinder, and set in baking dish on top of sauce.
Pour remaining Pipian Mole over enchiladas. Sprinkle with remaining queso fresco and grated cheese (if using).
Bake 30 minutes, or until Enchiladas are hot and bubbly. Serve with salsa, if desired.
Nutrition Information: Unit (Serving Size): per enchilada: Calories: 454; Protein: 17 g; Total Fat: 25 g; Saturated Fat: 9 g; Carbohydrates: 42 g; Cholesterol: 20 mg; Sodium: 730 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 7 g
TORTILLA LASAGNA
This is from the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 48. It begins, "This easy, crowd-pleasing dish is also a kid favorite. Toasting the tortillas before building the lasagna keeps them from getting soggy as the dish bakes. Feel free to mix things up with different beans, cheeses, or vegetables between the layers." Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
6 8-inch fat-free flour tortillas
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)
2 Tbs. chili powder
2 tsp. ancho chile powder
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
2 cups strained tomatoes, such as Pomì, divided
1 1/2 cups cooked black beans, or 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium chayote, peeled and diced, or 2 medium zucchini, diced (1 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast tortillas on 2 baking sheets in oven 5 minutes, or until light brown, turning once.
Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 minutes, or until soft. Stir in chili powder, ancho chile powder, and garlic, and cook 30 seconds. Add 11/2 cups strained tomatoes, beans, chayote, corn, and 1/2 cup water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cover, and cook 10 minutes, or until chayote is tender.
Coat 2-inch-deep x 8-inch round baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/4 cup strained tomatoes in bottom of pan. Set 1 toasted tortilla in pan; top with 3/4 cup bean mixture and 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering 4 more times. Top with last tortilla, and spread remaining 1/4 cup strained tomatoes over top. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly and cheese has melted. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into 8 wedges.
nutritional information Per Wedge: Calories: 226; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g; Cholesterol: 19 mg; Sodium: 506 mg; Fiber: 10 g; Sugar: 4 g
FARROW BLACK BEANS MEXICAN BOWL [VEGAN]
This recipe comes from One Green Planet, and begins, “My idea was to make a one pan, flavorful, Mexican meal – so I flavored the warm oil with garlic and oregano first and then mixed in the rest of the ingredients except lettuce and avocados. I love the fresh and crunchy texture of lettuce, and fresh sliced avocados give this Farro Black Beans Mexican Bowl a light creamy texture. Serve this healthy, nutritious and vegan Mexican bowl to yourself and feel the happiness and energy flowing in your body.” Cook Time: 10 minutes; Serves: 4; Calories: 435
To view this online, go to http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/farro-black-beans-mexican-bowl/.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chopped garlic
2 tsp oregan
1 cup red onions (chopped)
1 cup green bell pepper (chopped)
1 tbsp jalapeno pepper (seeds removed and chopped)
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
3 roma tomatoes (blanched, peeled and mashed)
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 cup sweet corn kernels
1 15 oz. can black beans (rinsed and drained)
1 1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp lime juice
2 cups farrow (cooked)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 whole avocado (seed removed and sliced/chopped
Preparation
Heat oil in a nonstick pan and add garlic, oregano and onions. Saute well.
Add green bell pepper, jalapeno, cilantro, tomatoes. Mix, cover and cook for 2 minutes.
Add sugar, corn, black beans, salt, lime juice.
Mix very well and cover and cook for 3 – 4 minutes.
Lastly add farro and mix well so that farro is properly coated and turn off the flame.
In a serving bowl/plate empty the pan. Top it with lettuce and avocado and serve.
CORN SALSA
This yummy salsa comes from country singer Trisha Yearwood on The Food Network's website. Total Time: 1 hr. 15 minutes; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Inactive: 1 hour; Yield: Servings: about 5 cups; Level: easy
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/trisha-yearwood/corn-salsa0.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
1 15 -ounce can yellow corn, drained
1 15-ounce can white corn, drained
1 4-ounce can chopped green chiles, drained
1 2 .5-ounce can sliced black olives, drained
4 scallions, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
3 tablespoons white vinegar
1/3 cup olive oil
Kosher salt
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
Mix the yellow and white corn, chiles, olives, scallions, tomatoes, jalapenos, vinegar, olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Chill at least 1 hour.
Just before serving, add the cilantro to the salsa.
WILD MUSHROOM QUESADILLAS
Maybe it’s just me, but I’ve always been a little leery about going out picking wild mushrooms. I wasn’t wild about mushrooms as a kid, but I’ve grown to just about like them. But wild mushrooms? Nah-ah, no thanks. I’ve heard too many horror stories…
That said, this comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times cooking email. Kim wrote, “You don't have to use wild mushrooms, of course, but if you can get chanterelles — oh man. It takes a bit of time at the stove, but when the quesadilla is done, you have a great handheld food that is, among other things, very kid friendly.” Phew! Thank you, Kim, for adding that disclaimer about not having to use wild mushrooms!!!
This recipe yields 8 servings (Time: 30 minutes) and was featured in “THE CHEF: TRACI DES JARDINS; Tortillas Let a Cook Come Home Again”. It can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound chanterelles, black trumpet or other wild mushrooms (or substitute oyster, crimini or clamshell mushrooms; do not use shiitake), roughly chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup minced yellow onion
4 ounces grated Oaxaca or domestic Muenster cheese
4 ounces grated panela or aged mozzarella cheese
4 ounces grated cotija or Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch of ground coriander
8 8-inch flour or corn tortillas, preferably homemade (recipe follows)
Preparation
Place a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. When oil shimmers, add mushrooms and a generous pinch of salt. Sauté until mushrooms release their liquid, liquid evaporates and mushrooms begin to brown, about 10 minutes.
Add onions. Sauté, adjusting heat as necessary, until onions are soft and entire mixture is golden brown but not burned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Using a food processor or a knife, finely chop mushroom-onion mixture, then transfer to a large bowl. Add grated cheeses, cilantro, oregano and coriander. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place a large nonstick or well-seasoned skillet over medium heat, and add remaining 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. While pan heats, place a large spoonful of mushroom-cheese mixture into center of a tortilla, and fold tortilla in half to make a half-moon. Place filled tortilla in preheated skillet and cook, turning once, until tortilla is nicely browned on both sides and cheese is melted. Repeat to make 8 filled tortillas. Serve immediately.
GRANDMA SALAZAR’S TORTILLAS
This also comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times cooking email. Kim wrote, “This recipe for flour tortillas came to The Times in 2005 from Traci Des Jardins, a San Francisco chef whose heritage is Cajun on one side and Mexican on the other, via her maternal grandmother, Angela Salazar...These make for really delicious tortillas.” Kim had added, “You’ll see ‘bacon drippings’ in the ingredients.” I've omitted the bacon drippings, as well as lard (it originally read ‘bacon drippings, lard or vegetable shortening’) and left it as simply the vegetable shortening.
Makes 12 8-inch tortillas.
This was featured in “THE CHEF: TRACI DES JARDINS; Tortillas Let a Cook Come Home Again” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
Preparation
In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add bacon drippings and mix by hand or with a pastry cutter until mixture is crumbly. Slowly mix in 1 cup cold water. Add just enough additional water (about 1/3 cup) to make a smooth, slightly sticky dough.
Divide dough into 12 balls of equal size. Place on a board or baking sheet and cover with a kitchen towel; allow to rest for at least 20 minutes or up to an hour.
On a lightly floured surface, roll tortillas into 8-inch rounds. Place between sheets of waxed paper. At this point dough may be covered and refrigerated until cooking time, or used immediately.
Heat a griddle over medium heat. Remove tortillas from waxed paper and cook one at a time until puffy and slightly brown, about 30 seconds a side. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel to keep warm until serving.
PIPIAN MOLE PUMPKIN ENCHILADAS
This is from Vegetarian Times, and begins, "Pipian mole, a Mexican sauce made with pumpkin seeds (pepitas) and fresh greens, is used to flavor squash-stuffed enchiladas. For extra protein, you can add 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans to the enchilada filling." Makes 8 enchiladas.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Pipian Mole
1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
2 cups packed cilantro leaves
3 cloves garlic, peeled
2 tbs. olive oil
7 tomatillos (1 Ib.), quartered
1 large white onion, cut into chunks
1 serrano chile, halved and seeded
1 1/2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1/2 cup epazote leaves, radish leaves or arugula
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
Enchiladas
2 lbs. fresh pumpkin, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (4 cups)
4 small yellow squash, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
8 8-inch flour tortillas
8 oz. queso fresco
2 oz. grated Monterey Jack cheese, optional
1 cup fresh prepared salsa, optional
Instructions
Toast pumpkin seeds in skillet over medium heat, or until they pop, puff, and turn golden brown. Transfer to paper towel to cool.
Blend pumpkin seeds, cilantro, and garlic in food processor 1 to 2 minutes, or until finely chopped and paste starts to form. Transfer to bowl, and set aside.
Heat oil in large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add tomatillos, onion, and serrano chile, and cook 7 to 10 minutes, or until beginning to brown. Transfer to food processor and blend until smooth, adding lettuce and epazote leaves, radish leaves, or arugula.
Add 1/2 cup broth to pan, and bring to a simmer to deglaze pan. Stir in remaining broth, oregano, tomatillo mixture, and pumpkin-seed mixture; season with salt and pepper, if desired. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes, or until mixture has thickened.
To make Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 350˚F.
Remove 2 1/2 cups of Pipian Mole from pan, and set aside. Add pumpkin and squash to remaining Pipian Mole in pan, cover, and simmer 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, spread 1 cup reserved Pipian Mole in 9- x 13-inch baking dish.
Spread 3/4 cup pumpkin mixture in center of each tortilla, sprinkle with 1 Tbs. queso fresco, roll into tight cylinder, and set in baking dish on top of sauce.
Pour remaining Pipian Mole over enchiladas. Sprinkle with remaining queso fresco and grated cheese (if using).
Bake 30 minutes, or until Enchiladas are hot and bubbly. Serve with salsa, if desired.
Nutrition Information: Unit (Serving Size): per enchilada: Calories: 454; Protein: 17 g; Total Fat: 25 g; Saturated Fat: 9 g; Carbohydrates: 42 g; Cholesterol: 20 mg; Sodium: 730 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 7 g
TORTILLA LASAGNA
This is from the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 48. It begins, "This easy, crowd-pleasing dish is also a kid favorite. Toasting the tortillas before building the lasagna keeps them from getting soggy as the dish bakes. Feel free to mix things up with different beans, cheeses, or vegetables between the layers." Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
6 8-inch fat-free flour tortillas
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)
2 Tbs. chili powder
2 tsp. ancho chile powder
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
2 cups strained tomatoes, such as Pomì, divided
1 1/2 cups cooked black beans, or 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium chayote, peeled and diced, or 2 medium zucchini, diced (1 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast tortillas on 2 baking sheets in oven 5 minutes, or until light brown, turning once.
Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 minutes, or until soft. Stir in chili powder, ancho chile powder, and garlic, and cook 30 seconds. Add 11/2 cups strained tomatoes, beans, chayote, corn, and 1/2 cup water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cover, and cook 10 minutes, or until chayote is tender.
Coat 2-inch-deep x 8-inch round baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/4 cup strained tomatoes in bottom of pan. Set 1 toasted tortilla in pan; top with 3/4 cup bean mixture and 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering 4 more times. Top with last tortilla, and spread remaining 1/4 cup strained tomatoes over top. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly and cheese has melted. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into 8 wedges.
nutritional information Per Wedge: Calories: 226; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g; Cholesterol: 19 mg; Sodium: 506 mg; Fiber: 10 g; Sugar: 4 g
Passover Recipes
Passover begins at sundown this evening, hence six diabetic Passover recipes, including Passover-Inspired Braised Lamb With Dried Fruit and Hazelnut Citrus Torte. And to all my friends who are Jewish, here's to a happy Passover. Enjoy!
PASSOVER-INSPIRED BRAISED LAMB WITH DRIED FRUIT
This is from Mark Bittman and Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “This is a play on tsimmes, a traditional Jewish casserole. The flavors of North Africa and the Middle East are utilized for this lamb shoulder. Braising the meat in red wine yields a tender cut of meat without a lot of work.”
Yield: At least 8 Servings; Time: 3 hours, largely unattended.
This was featured in “Feast in the South” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 lamb shoulder, boned, about 4 pounds
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
1 large onion, peeled
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger, or 1 teaspoon dried
1 cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons ground coriander
10 allspice berries or a pinch of ground allspice
1/2 to 3/4 bottle not-too-soft red wine
3/4 cup pitted prunes
3/4 cup pitted apricots
Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
Preparation
Season the meat with salt and pepper and put it in a pot that will fit it snugly and can later be covered. Add the spices and a 1/2 bottle of wine. Bring to a boil, lower the heat to a slow bubble, and cover. Cook about an hour, then add onion, garlic, ginger and dried fruit, and check to make sure the liquid isn’t evaporating too quickly; turn and continue to cook. Add the remaining red wine if the mixture looks dry, but essentially cook this without fuss.
When the meat is very tender — after about 2 1/2 hours — uncover. Check and adjust the seasoning as necessary, garnish and serve.
BROCCOLI KNISHES (PAREVE)
Yield: 4 servings
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=676
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/676.shtml
Source: Passover Lite Kosher Cookbook
Author: Gail Ashkanazi-Hankin
Ingredients
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/3 cup matzo meal
2 Tbsp potato starch
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
2 egg whites or 1/4 cup Passover egg substitute
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup fresh or frozen broccoli, steamed and finely chopped
Nonstick cooking spray
Directions
Preheat oven to 375F.
Generously coat a baking sheet with the cooking spray; set aside.
In a bowl, combine the potatoes, matzo meal, potato starch, onion, egg whites, pepper, and salt; knead together. Divide the dough into 6 balls and flatten each.
Divide the broccoli evenly onto each circle, fold over, and press edges to seal.
Arrange the knishes in a single layer and place the baking sheet on the bottom rack of the oven. Bake for 15 minutes on each side. Serve hot. Makes 6 Servings.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 82; Sodium: 124 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch
MATZO TOFFEE WITH CANDIED GINGER
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “Traditional matzo toffee — a Passover-friendly spin on saltine toffee — is an addictive three-layer confection of crackers, brown sugar toffee and melted chocolate. In this version, the chocolate gets a spicy boost from the addition of both fresh ginger juice and chewy candied ginger. Or substitute a topping of cacao nibs, sea salt and/or toasted, chopped nuts. Matzo toffee will keep for at least eight days, stored airtight at room temperature, which will take you through the holidays in the sweetest way possible.”
Yield: About 2 dozen pieces.
This was featured in “Closing the Seder with Something New” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
4 to 6 sheets matzo, preferably salted
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 teaspoons ginger juice, optional (see note)
Large pinch fine sea salt
6 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate (1 cup)
3 ounces chopped candied ginger (3/4 cup)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil, allowing it to go over the edges of the pan. Cover the bottom of the pan with parchment. Arrange matzo over parchment in one layer, breaking pieces to fit as necessary.
In a medium pot over medium-high heat, bring butter and sugar to a boil for 3 minutes, until thickened and smooth. Stir in ginger juice and salt. Quickly pour mixture over matzos. Transfer pan to oven and bake 15 minutes until bubbly.
Remove pan from oven. Sprinkle chocolate evenly over caramel. Let stand 5 minutes until chocolate is softened. Use an offset spatula to spread chocolate smoothly over surface of toffee. Immediately sprinkle with candied ginger. Place pan in refrigerator and chill toffee for 1 hour. Break into large pieces.
Tip
To make ginger juice, grate a 3-inch piece of peeled ginger into a fine-mesh strainer and press out the juice.
HAZELNUT CITRUS TORTE
This also comes from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “A touch of quinoa flour gives this hazelnut torte an underlying smokiness that makes it more complex than most. It also makes it both gluten-free and kosher for Passover. But if you can’t find quinoa flour, millet flour will work well, too, as would wheat flour (though of course it would no longer be gluten-free). With a supple, moist crumb, this torte will keep for several days, well-wrapped at room temperature, so feel free to make it ahead. Then serve it with a citrus sorbet or sweet citrus salad and a mound of whipped crème fraîche or mascarpone.”
Yield: 8 servings; Time: 1 hour
This was also featured in “Closing the Seder with Something New” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, more for oiling pan
200 grams granulated sugar (1 cup)
95 grams hazelnut or almond flour (1 cup plus 1 tablespoon)
30 grams quinoa flour (1/3 cup)
4 large eggs, separated
2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
2 grams salt (1/4 teaspoon)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of an 8- or 9-inch springform pan with parchment and brush pan with olive oil.
Combine a third of the sugar (about 1/3 cup), the hazelnut flour and the quinoa flour in a bowl.
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to whip another third of the sugar with the egg yolks on medium speed until thick and pale yellow in color, about 5 minutes. Beat in 1/4 cup olive oil, the lemon zest and the citrus juices. Fold in the dry ingredients.
In a clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat egg whites and salt until frothy. Beat in remaining sugar on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 2 to 5 minutes. Fold a third of the egg-white mixture into batter. Gently fold in remaining egg-white mixture in 2 batches. Pour batter into pan.
Bake 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Remove pan sides. Invert pan, remove parchment and turn cake right side up onto a plate.
Tip
Measurements for dry ingredients are given by weight for greater accuracy. The equivalent measurements by volume are approximate.
CINNAMON RAISIN KUGEL
Yield: 12 servings
Source: Enlitened Kosher Cooking
Print: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/674.shtml
Ingredients
1 package (8 oz) low-fat cream cheese, softened
2 Tbsp stick butter, melted
3/4 cup Equal Sugar Lite
3 eggs
2 egg whites
1/2 cup low-fat milk (2%)
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, divided
4 cup (8 oz) wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
1/2 cup golden raisins
2 Tbsp Equal Sugar Lite, additional
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Beat cream cheese and butter until well combined. Mix in 3/4 cup Equal Sugar Lite, eggs and egg whites, milk, vanilla and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon until well blended. Stir in cooked noodles and raisins.
Pour mixture into 13 x 9-inch baking pan well sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Combine 2 tablespoons Equal Sugar Lite and remaining 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle over top of noodle mixture.
Bake in preheated oven 20 to 25 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 206; Protein: 7 g; Sodium: 102 mg; Cholesterol: 79 mg; Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 11.5 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g
HONEY CUPCAKES (for PASSOVER)
This comes from Nichelle Stephens, About.com's Cupcake expert, who writes, "Honey cake is a Jewish traditional dessert that is often served at high holidays like Passover and Rosh Hashanah. I am not Jewish, but I had my first Seder meal at the Catholic elementary school that I attended in Alabama. Now that I have gotten your attention with the previous sentence, it is important as a food writer to sample foods from different cultures and countries. The cool thing about cupcakes is that you can be inspired to bake cupcakes from food all over the world. Honey cupcakes are a nice treat for both kids and adult that will be welcomed at Passover Seder dinner along family and friends. A Passover seder is a festive holiday meal. In some ways, it is somewhat similar to Thanksgiving where families gather, but there are prayers and a ritual that happens throughout the meal. These honey cupcakes are adapted from a Baked-Delicious.com recipe that originally had whole wheat flavor. For Passover, it is necessary to use unleavened bread like matzo for baking." Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 18 cupcakes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
A pinch of salt
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup honey
1 lemon (only use the juice the zest)
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons milk
2 eggs
Preparation
Preheat oven to 325F. In a large bowl, sift the cake meal, flour, salt, spices and baking soda. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the honey and butter. Add in the lemon zest and juice and stir until well blended. Make a well in the center of the bowl that has the dry ingredients. Slowly add the honey mixture, stirring until it is well blended.
Beat the eggs and mil together in a measuring cup or small bowl. Then slowly beat into the batter. Use an ice cream scoop to pour the batter into baking cups. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center cupcake is well risen and springy.
Set the pan on a cooling rack for 5 minutes.
Make a honey syrup with 4 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons water and the grated zest of one lemon. Drizzle or brush honey syrup on top. For garnish you can add lemon zest and chopped almonds or peanuts on top. Honey cupcakes keep well and taste even better after two or three days.
PASSOVER-INSPIRED BRAISED LAMB WITH DRIED FRUIT
This is from Mark Bittman and Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “This is a play on tsimmes, a traditional Jewish casserole. The flavors of North Africa and the Middle East are utilized for this lamb shoulder. Braising the meat in red wine yields a tender cut of meat without a lot of work.”
Yield: At least 8 Servings; Time: 3 hours, largely unattended.
This was featured in “Feast in the South” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 lamb shoulder, boned, about 4 pounds
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
1 large onion, peeled
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger, or 1 teaspoon dried
1 cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons ground coriander
10 allspice berries or a pinch of ground allspice
1/2 to 3/4 bottle not-too-soft red wine
3/4 cup pitted prunes
3/4 cup pitted apricots
Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
Preparation
Season the meat with salt and pepper and put it in a pot that will fit it snugly and can later be covered. Add the spices and a 1/2 bottle of wine. Bring to a boil, lower the heat to a slow bubble, and cover. Cook about an hour, then add onion, garlic, ginger and dried fruit, and check to make sure the liquid isn’t evaporating too quickly; turn and continue to cook. Add the remaining red wine if the mixture looks dry, but essentially cook this without fuss.
When the meat is very tender — after about 2 1/2 hours — uncover. Check and adjust the seasoning as necessary, garnish and serve.
BROCCOLI KNISHES (PAREVE)
Yield: 4 servings
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=676
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/676.shtml
Source: Passover Lite Kosher Cookbook
Author: Gail Ashkanazi-Hankin
Ingredients
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/3 cup matzo meal
2 Tbsp potato starch
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
2 egg whites or 1/4 cup Passover egg substitute
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup fresh or frozen broccoli, steamed and finely chopped
Nonstick cooking spray
Directions
Preheat oven to 375F.
Generously coat a baking sheet with the cooking spray; set aside.
In a bowl, combine the potatoes, matzo meal, potato starch, onion, egg whites, pepper, and salt; knead together. Divide the dough into 6 balls and flatten each.
Divide the broccoli evenly onto each circle, fold over, and press edges to seal.
Arrange the knishes in a single layer and place the baking sheet on the bottom rack of the oven. Bake for 15 minutes on each side. Serve hot. Makes 6 Servings.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 82; Sodium: 124 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch
MATZO TOFFEE WITH CANDIED GINGER
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “Traditional matzo toffee — a Passover-friendly spin on saltine toffee — is an addictive three-layer confection of crackers, brown sugar toffee and melted chocolate. In this version, the chocolate gets a spicy boost from the addition of both fresh ginger juice and chewy candied ginger. Or substitute a topping of cacao nibs, sea salt and/or toasted, chopped nuts. Matzo toffee will keep for at least eight days, stored airtight at room temperature, which will take you through the holidays in the sweetest way possible.”
Yield: About 2 dozen pieces.
This was featured in “Closing the Seder with Something New” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
4 to 6 sheets matzo, preferably salted
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 teaspoons ginger juice, optional (see note)
Large pinch fine sea salt
6 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate (1 cup)
3 ounces chopped candied ginger (3/4 cup)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil, allowing it to go over the edges of the pan. Cover the bottom of the pan with parchment. Arrange matzo over parchment in one layer, breaking pieces to fit as necessary.
In a medium pot over medium-high heat, bring butter and sugar to a boil for 3 minutes, until thickened and smooth. Stir in ginger juice and salt. Quickly pour mixture over matzos. Transfer pan to oven and bake 15 minutes until bubbly.
Remove pan from oven. Sprinkle chocolate evenly over caramel. Let stand 5 minutes until chocolate is softened. Use an offset spatula to spread chocolate smoothly over surface of toffee. Immediately sprinkle with candied ginger. Place pan in refrigerator and chill toffee for 1 hour. Break into large pieces.
Tip
To make ginger juice, grate a 3-inch piece of peeled ginger into a fine-mesh strainer and press out the juice.
HAZELNUT CITRUS TORTE
This also comes from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “A touch of quinoa flour gives this hazelnut torte an underlying smokiness that makes it more complex than most. It also makes it both gluten-free and kosher for Passover. But if you can’t find quinoa flour, millet flour will work well, too, as would wheat flour (though of course it would no longer be gluten-free). With a supple, moist crumb, this torte will keep for several days, well-wrapped at room temperature, so feel free to make it ahead. Then serve it with a citrus sorbet or sweet citrus salad and a mound of whipped crème fraîche or mascarpone.”
Yield: 8 servings; Time: 1 hour
This was also featured in “Closing the Seder with Something New” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, more for oiling pan
200 grams granulated sugar (1 cup)
95 grams hazelnut or almond flour (1 cup plus 1 tablespoon)
30 grams quinoa flour (1/3 cup)
4 large eggs, separated
2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
2 grams salt (1/4 teaspoon)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of an 8- or 9-inch springform pan with parchment and brush pan with olive oil.
Combine a third of the sugar (about 1/3 cup), the hazelnut flour and the quinoa flour in a bowl.
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to whip another third of the sugar with the egg yolks on medium speed until thick and pale yellow in color, about 5 minutes. Beat in 1/4 cup olive oil, the lemon zest and the citrus juices. Fold in the dry ingredients.
In a clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat egg whites and salt until frothy. Beat in remaining sugar on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 2 to 5 minutes. Fold a third of the egg-white mixture into batter. Gently fold in remaining egg-white mixture in 2 batches. Pour batter into pan.
Bake 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Remove pan sides. Invert pan, remove parchment and turn cake right side up onto a plate.
Tip
Measurements for dry ingredients are given by weight for greater accuracy. The equivalent measurements by volume are approximate.
CINNAMON RAISIN KUGEL
Yield: 12 servings
Source: Enlitened Kosher Cooking
Print: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/674.shtml
Ingredients
1 package (8 oz) low-fat cream cheese, softened
2 Tbsp stick butter, melted
3/4 cup Equal Sugar Lite
3 eggs
2 egg whites
1/2 cup low-fat milk (2%)
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, divided
4 cup (8 oz) wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
1/2 cup golden raisins
2 Tbsp Equal Sugar Lite, additional
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Beat cream cheese and butter until well combined. Mix in 3/4 cup Equal Sugar Lite, eggs and egg whites, milk, vanilla and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon until well blended. Stir in cooked noodles and raisins.
Pour mixture into 13 x 9-inch baking pan well sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Combine 2 tablespoons Equal Sugar Lite and remaining 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle over top of noodle mixture.
Bake in preheated oven 20 to 25 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 206; Protein: 7 g; Sodium: 102 mg; Cholesterol: 79 mg; Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 11.5 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g
HONEY CUPCAKES (for PASSOVER)
This comes from Nichelle Stephens, About.com's Cupcake expert, who writes, "Honey cake is a Jewish traditional dessert that is often served at high holidays like Passover and Rosh Hashanah. I am not Jewish, but I had my first Seder meal at the Catholic elementary school that I attended in Alabama. Now that I have gotten your attention with the previous sentence, it is important as a food writer to sample foods from different cultures and countries. The cool thing about cupcakes is that you can be inspired to bake cupcakes from food all over the world. Honey cupcakes are a nice treat for both kids and adult that will be welcomed at Passover Seder dinner along family and friends. A Passover seder is a festive holiday meal. In some ways, it is somewhat similar to Thanksgiving where families gather, but there are prayers and a ritual that happens throughout the meal. These honey cupcakes are adapted from a Baked-Delicious.com recipe that originally had whole wheat flavor. For Passover, it is necessary to use unleavened bread like matzo for baking." Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 18 cupcakes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
A pinch of salt
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup honey
1 lemon (only use the juice the zest)
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons milk
2 eggs
Preparation
Preheat oven to 325F. In a large bowl, sift the cake meal, flour, salt, spices and baking soda. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the honey and butter. Add in the lemon zest and juice and stir until well blended. Make a well in the center of the bowl that has the dry ingredients. Slowly add the honey mixture, stirring until it is well blended.
Beat the eggs and mil together in a measuring cup or small bowl. Then slowly beat into the batter. Use an ice cream scoop to pour the batter into baking cups. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center cupcake is well risen and springy.
Set the pan on a cooling rack for 5 minutes.
Make a honey syrup with 4 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons water and the grated zest of one lemon. Drizzle or brush honey syrup on top. For garnish you can add lemon zest and chopped almonds or peanuts on top. Honey cupcakes keep well and taste even better after two or three days.
Saturday, April 8, 2017
Passover Food
Passover begins at sunset on Monday, so I wanted to post a few Passover recipes. Here are six, including Noodle Kugel and Brisket With Horseradish Gremolata. Enjoy!
For a short explaination of Passover, check out Judaism 101.
BRISKET WITH HORSERADISH GREMOLATA
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “character from two distinct sources. Searing the meat until dark brown gives the sauce a caramelized, intensely brawny taste, while a bracing garnish of fresh horseradish gremolata spiked with parsley and lemon zest adds brightness and a sinus-clearing bite. Make the meat a few days ahead, it only gets better as it rests. But to get the most out of the gremolata, don’t grate the horseradish until an hour or two before serving. If you can’t find fresh horseradish, use 4 cloves minced garlic instead.”
Yield: 8 to 12 servings; Time: 4 hours, plus marinating
This was featured in “Gremolata Gives Passover Brisket a Brighter Side and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 (4- to 5-pound) brisket, preferably second cut
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
4 garlic cloves, chopped
6 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 large carrots, sliced into thin rounds
2 large celery stalks, diced
1 1/2 cups dry red wine
2 whole bay leaves
1 1/2 cups parsley, coarsely chopped
Grated zest of 1 small lemon
3 tablespoons fresh, coarsely grated horseradish
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation
Season brisket all over with salt and pepper. Place brisket in a large container and spread garlic and thyme sprigs all over top and bottom of meat. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. Let meat stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. Wipe off the garlic and thyme. Heat oven to 325 degrees.
Heat a very large Dutch oven over high heat. Add oil and let heat. Add brisket and sear, without moving, until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. (Cut meat into 2 chunks and sear in batches if it doesn’t fit in the pot in a single layer.) Transfer to a plate.
Add onions, carrots and celery to pot and reduce heat to medium-high. Cook vegetables, tossing occasionally, until onions are golden brown around the edges and very tender, about 15 minutes. Pour in wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in bay leaves and bring liquid to a simmer; let simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Place meat in pot, then cover pot and transfer to oven. Cook, turning every 30 minutes, until meat is completely fork tender, 3 to 4 hours. After 2 1/2 hours, uncover pot so some of the liquid can evaporate and the sauce can thicken. If the brisket starts to get too brown and the sauce too reduced before the meat is tender, cover pot again.
Spoon fat from the top before serving. (If you have time, let brisket cool completely first, then refrigerate overnight in the pot; this makes it easier to remove the white fat from the top. Reheat the meat, covered, in a 350-degree oven for 30 to 45 minutes.) If sauce seems thin, remove meat from pot and bring liquid to a simmer. Let cook until reduced to taste.
In a bowl, toss together parsley, lemon zest and horseradish to make gremolata. Slice meat against the grain and serve with the sauce, garnished with horseradish gremolata and sea salt.
SWEET AND SOUR BRAISED BRISKET WITH CRANBERRIES
This is from David Firestone and Susan Brenna, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Yield: 8 to 10 servings; Time: 4 1/2 hours.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
7 tablespoons light brown sugar
1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon kosher salt, more as needed
1 teaspoon crushed red chile flakes
1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or hot paprika
5 pounds brisket, preferably second cut, trimmed
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
1/2 cup fruity white wine
1/3 cup apple cider
2 teaspoons pomegranate molasses, optional
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 450 degrees. In a small bowl, combine the garlic, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, rosemary, black pepper, 1 tablespoon salt, chile flakes and Aleppo pepper. Place the brisket, fat side up, in a large Dutch oven. Rub meat all over with the spice mixture. If you have time, let meat rest at room temperature for 1 hour. (You can skip this step if necessary.) Transfer pot to oven and roast, uncovered, 20 minutes.
While meat cooks, heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, 7 to 10 minutes. Stir in the cranberries and remaining 6 tablespoons sugar. Simmer, uncovered, until cranberries begin to break down, about 5 minutes. Stir in the wine, cider and pomegranate molasses if using. Season with salt.
Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Pour cranberry mixture over the brisket. Cover and cook until meat is very tender, 3 to 3 1/2 hours; turn meat every hour. Slice meat and serve with plenty of sauce and parsley for garnish.
POTATO LATKES
Makes 10 latkes. 1 latke per serving
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=675
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/675.shtml
Ingredients
2 cups peeled and shredded Russet potatoes, firmly packed (about 1 pound)
1/4 cup grated or finely chopped onion
1 large egg
6 tablespoons egg substitute
2 – 3 tablespoons low sodium matzo meal (a little less than 1 matzo, processed into fine crumbs)
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons canola oil
Directions
Place the potatoes in a cheesecloth or double thickness of paper towels and wring to extract as much water out of the potatoes as possible.
In medium bowl, stir the potatoes, onion, egg, egg substitute and matzo meal and salt together well.
In a large heavy-bottomed non stick skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil until hot. Make sure the oil is spread evenly over the bottom of the skillet.
Place 1/4 cup (level measure) of potato mixture into the hot oil, pressing down on them to form 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick patties. Spray tops with canola cooking spray.
Brown on one side about 3 minutes, turn over and brown the other side (about 3 minutes).
Serve these hot with applesauce, fat free or light sour cream and chopped green onions.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 71; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 237 mg; Cholesterol: 21 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g
NOODLE KUGEL
Yield: 12 Servings
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=684
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/684.shtml
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Ingredients
8 ounces uncooked broad egg noodles
3 large eggs, beaten, or 3/4 cup egg substitute
3/4 cup low-fat small-curd cottage cheese
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 large tart apple, peeled, cored, and diced in 1/4-inch pieces
1/4 cup raisins, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes and drained
1/4 cup margarine, melted
Directions
Cook the noodles according to the package directions, omitting salt; drain well. There should be 4 cups of cooked noodles.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Prepare an 8-inch-square pan with non-stick pan spray.
Combine the eggs, cottage cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a large bowl. Stir in the noodles, apple, and raisins. Pour into the prepared dish.
Drizzle the margarine evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake, uncovered, for 45 to 55 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cut the kugel into 12 equal pieces (about 2 x 2 inches). Serve hot or chilled.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 156; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 122 mg; Cholesterol: 71 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 1 Fat
CHAROSET
This came from Judaism 101. It starts off, "This fruit, nut and wine mix is eaten during the seder. It is meant to remind us of the mortar used by the Jews to build during the period of slavery. It should have a coarse texture. The ingredient quantities listed here are at best a rough estimate; I usually just eye-ball it. The recipe below makes a very large quantity, but we usually wind up making more before the holiday is over. Other fruits or nuts can be used."
4 medium apples, 2 tart and 2 sweet
1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
1/4 cup sweet wine
1/4 cup dry wine
1 Tbs. cinnamon
Shred the apples. Add all other ingredients. Allow to sit for 3-6 hours, until the wine is absorbed by the other ingredients. Serve on matzah. Goes very well with horseradish.
HONEY CUPCAKES (for PASSOVER)
This comes from Nichelle Stephens, About.com's Cupcake expert, who writes, "Honey cake is a Jewish traditional dessert that is often served at high holidays like Passover and Rosh Hashanah. I am not Jewish, but I had my first Seder meal at the Catholic elementary school that I attended in Alabama. Now that I have gotten your attention with the previous sentence, it is important as a food writer to sample foods from different cultures and countries. The cool thing about cupcakes is that you can be inspired to bake cupcakes from food all over the world. Honey cupcakes are a nice treat for both kids and adult that will be welcomed at Passover Seder dinner along family and friends. A Passover seder is a festive holiday meal. In some ways, it is somewhat similar to Thanksgiving where families gather, but there are prayers and a ritual that happens throughout the meal. These honey cupcakes are adapted from a Baked-Delicious.com recipe that originally had whole wheat flavor. For Passover, it is necessary to use unleavened bread like matzo for baking." Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 18 cupcakes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
A pinch of salt
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup honey
1 lemon (only use the juice the zest)
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons milk
2 eggs
Preparation
Preheat oven to 325F. In a large bowl, sift the cake meal, flour, salt, spices and baking soda. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the honey and butter. Add in the lemon zest and juice and stir until well blended. Make a well in the center of the bowl that has the dry ingredients. Slowly add the honey mixture, stirring until it is well blended.
Beat the eggs and mil together in a measuring cup or small bowl. Then slowly beat into the batter. Use an ice cream scoop to pour the batter into baking cups. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center cupcake is well risen and springy.
Set the pan on a cooling rack for 5 minutes.
Make a honey syrup with 4 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons water and the grated zest of one lemon. Drizzle or brush honey syrup on top. For garnish you can add lemon zest and chopped almonds or peanuts on top. Honey cupcakes keep well and taste even better after two or three days.
For a short explaination of Passover, check out Judaism 101.
BRISKET WITH HORSERADISH GREMOLATA
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “character from two distinct sources. Searing the meat until dark brown gives the sauce a caramelized, intensely brawny taste, while a bracing garnish of fresh horseradish gremolata spiked with parsley and lemon zest adds brightness and a sinus-clearing bite. Make the meat a few days ahead, it only gets better as it rests. But to get the most out of the gremolata, don’t grate the horseradish until an hour or two before serving. If you can’t find fresh horseradish, use 4 cloves minced garlic instead.”
Yield: 8 to 12 servings; Time: 4 hours, plus marinating
This was featured in “Gremolata Gives Passover Brisket a Brighter Side and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
1 (4- to 5-pound) brisket, preferably second cut
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
4 garlic cloves, chopped
6 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 large carrots, sliced into thin rounds
2 large celery stalks, diced
1 1/2 cups dry red wine
2 whole bay leaves
1 1/2 cups parsley, coarsely chopped
Grated zest of 1 small lemon
3 tablespoons fresh, coarsely grated horseradish
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation
Season brisket all over with salt and pepper. Place brisket in a large container and spread garlic and thyme sprigs all over top and bottom of meat. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. Let meat stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. Wipe off the garlic and thyme. Heat oven to 325 degrees.
Heat a very large Dutch oven over high heat. Add oil and let heat. Add brisket and sear, without moving, until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. (Cut meat into 2 chunks and sear in batches if it doesn’t fit in the pot in a single layer.) Transfer to a plate.
Add onions, carrots and celery to pot and reduce heat to medium-high. Cook vegetables, tossing occasionally, until onions are golden brown around the edges and very tender, about 15 minutes. Pour in wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in bay leaves and bring liquid to a simmer; let simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Place meat in pot, then cover pot and transfer to oven. Cook, turning every 30 minutes, until meat is completely fork tender, 3 to 4 hours. After 2 1/2 hours, uncover pot so some of the liquid can evaporate and the sauce can thicken. If the brisket starts to get too brown and the sauce too reduced before the meat is tender, cover pot again.
Spoon fat from the top before serving. (If you have time, let brisket cool completely first, then refrigerate overnight in the pot; this makes it easier to remove the white fat from the top. Reheat the meat, covered, in a 350-degree oven for 30 to 45 minutes.) If sauce seems thin, remove meat from pot and bring liquid to a simmer. Let cook until reduced to taste.
In a bowl, toss together parsley, lemon zest and horseradish to make gremolata. Slice meat against the grain and serve with the sauce, garnished with horseradish gremolata and sea salt.
SWEET AND SOUR BRAISED BRISKET WITH CRANBERRIES
This is from David Firestone and Susan Brenna, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Yield: 8 to 10 servings; Time: 4 1/2 hours.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
7 tablespoons light brown sugar
1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon kosher salt, more as needed
1 teaspoon crushed red chile flakes
1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or hot paprika
5 pounds brisket, preferably second cut, trimmed
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
1/2 cup fruity white wine
1/3 cup apple cider
2 teaspoons pomegranate molasses, optional
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 450 degrees. In a small bowl, combine the garlic, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, rosemary, black pepper, 1 tablespoon salt, chile flakes and Aleppo pepper. Place the brisket, fat side up, in a large Dutch oven. Rub meat all over with the spice mixture. If you have time, let meat rest at room temperature for 1 hour. (You can skip this step if necessary.) Transfer pot to oven and roast, uncovered, 20 minutes.
While meat cooks, heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, 7 to 10 minutes. Stir in the cranberries and remaining 6 tablespoons sugar. Simmer, uncovered, until cranberries begin to break down, about 5 minutes. Stir in the wine, cider and pomegranate molasses if using. Season with salt.
Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Pour cranberry mixture over the brisket. Cover and cook until meat is very tender, 3 to 3 1/2 hours; turn meat every hour. Slice meat and serve with plenty of sauce and parsley for garnish.
POTATO LATKES
Makes 10 latkes. 1 latke per serving
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=675
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/675.shtml
Ingredients
2 cups peeled and shredded Russet potatoes, firmly packed (about 1 pound)
1/4 cup grated or finely chopped onion
1 large egg
6 tablespoons egg substitute
2 – 3 tablespoons low sodium matzo meal (a little less than 1 matzo, processed into fine crumbs)
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons canola oil
Directions
Place the potatoes in a cheesecloth or double thickness of paper towels and wring to extract as much water out of the potatoes as possible.
In medium bowl, stir the potatoes, onion, egg, egg substitute and matzo meal and salt together well.
In a large heavy-bottomed non stick skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil until hot. Make sure the oil is spread evenly over the bottom of the skillet.
Place 1/4 cup (level measure) of potato mixture into the hot oil, pressing down on them to form 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick patties. Spray tops with canola cooking spray.
Brown on one side about 3 minutes, turn over and brown the other side (about 3 minutes).
Serve these hot with applesauce, fat free or light sour cream and chopped green onions.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 71; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 237 mg; Cholesterol: 21 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g
NOODLE KUGEL
Yield: 12 Servings
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=684
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/684.shtml
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Ingredients
8 ounces uncooked broad egg noodles
3 large eggs, beaten, or 3/4 cup egg substitute
3/4 cup low-fat small-curd cottage cheese
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 large tart apple, peeled, cored, and diced in 1/4-inch pieces
1/4 cup raisins, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes and drained
1/4 cup margarine, melted
Directions
Cook the noodles according to the package directions, omitting salt; drain well. There should be 4 cups of cooked noodles.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Prepare an 8-inch-square pan with non-stick pan spray.
Combine the eggs, cottage cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a large bowl. Stir in the noodles, apple, and raisins. Pour into the prepared dish.
Drizzle the margarine evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake, uncovered, for 45 to 55 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cut the kugel into 12 equal pieces (about 2 x 2 inches). Serve hot or chilled.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 156; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 122 mg; Cholesterol: 71 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 1 Fat
CHAROSET
This came from Judaism 101. It starts off, "This fruit, nut and wine mix is eaten during the seder. It is meant to remind us of the mortar used by the Jews to build during the period of slavery. It should have a coarse texture. The ingredient quantities listed here are at best a rough estimate; I usually just eye-ball it. The recipe below makes a very large quantity, but we usually wind up making more before the holiday is over. Other fruits or nuts can be used."
4 medium apples, 2 tart and 2 sweet
1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
1/4 cup sweet wine
1/4 cup dry wine
1 Tbs. cinnamon
Shred the apples. Add all other ingredients. Allow to sit for 3-6 hours, until the wine is absorbed by the other ingredients. Serve on matzah. Goes very well with horseradish.
HONEY CUPCAKES (for PASSOVER)
This comes from Nichelle Stephens, About.com's Cupcake expert, who writes, "Honey cake is a Jewish traditional dessert that is often served at high holidays like Passover and Rosh Hashanah. I am not Jewish, but I had my first Seder meal at the Catholic elementary school that I attended in Alabama. Now that I have gotten your attention with the previous sentence, it is important as a food writer to sample foods from different cultures and countries. The cool thing about cupcakes is that you can be inspired to bake cupcakes from food all over the world. Honey cupcakes are a nice treat for both kids and adult that will be welcomed at Passover Seder dinner along family and friends. A Passover seder is a festive holiday meal. In some ways, it is somewhat similar to Thanksgiving where families gather, but there are prayers and a ritual that happens throughout the meal. These honey cupcakes are adapted from a Baked-Delicious.com recipe that originally had whole wheat flavor. For Passover, it is necessary to use unleavened bread like matzo for baking." Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 18 cupcakes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
A pinch of salt
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup honey
1 lemon (only use the juice the zest)
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons milk
2 eggs
Preparation
Preheat oven to 325F. In a large bowl, sift the cake meal, flour, salt, spices and baking soda. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the honey and butter. Add in the lemon zest and juice and stir until well blended. Make a well in the center of the bowl that has the dry ingredients. Slowly add the honey mixture, stirring until it is well blended.
Beat the eggs and mil together in a measuring cup or small bowl. Then slowly beat into the batter. Use an ice cream scoop to pour the batter into baking cups. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center cupcake is well risen and springy.
Set the pan on a cooling rack for 5 minutes.
Make a honey syrup with 4 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons water and the grated zest of one lemon. Drizzle or brush honey syrup on top. For garnish you can add lemon zest and chopped almonds or peanuts on top. Honey cupcakes keep well and taste even better after two or three days.
Friday, April 7, 2017
Friday Recipes
It's Friday, time to get ready for the weekend. Hope your's is good...
Here are six recipes to help you through the weekend, including Chocolate-Espresso Smoothie and Chicken Piccata. Enjoy!
CHICKEN PICCATA
This comes from Ina Garten of The Food Network’s Barefoot Contesssa. Total Time: 30 minutes; Active Time: 15 minutes; Yield: 2 servings; Level: Intermediate.
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/chicken-piccata-recipe.
Ingredients
2 split (1 whole) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 extra-large egg
1/2 tablespoon water
3/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
Good olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, divided
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons), lemon halves reserved
1/2 cup dry white wine
Sliced lemon, for serving
Chopped fresh parsley leaves, for serving
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Place each chicken breast between 2 sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap and pound out to 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
Mix the flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper in a shallow plate. In a second plate, beat the egg and 1/2 tablespoon of water together. Place the bread crumbs on a third plate. Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, shake off the excess, and then dip in the egg and bread crumb mixtures.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saute pan over medium to medium-low heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2 minutes on each side, until browned. Place them on the sheet pan and allow them to bake for 5 to 10 minutes while you make the sauce.
For the sauce, wipe out the saute pan with a dry paper towel. Over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter and then add the lemon juice, wine, the reserved lemon halves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Boil over high heat until reduced in half, about 2 minutes. Off the heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and swirl to combine. Discard the lemon halves and serve 1 chicken breast on each plate. Spoon on the sauce and serve with a slice of lemon and a sprinkling of fresh parsley.
GUMBO CASSEROLE
This comes from FamilyTime and begins, “Two comfort foods, gumbo and casserole, come together to make a tasty family favorite. Plus, it takes just 15 minutes to put together before you pop it in the oven...you don't even have to cook the rice beforehand.” Makes 4 servings (about 1 1/4 cups each); Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 cans (10 3/4 ounces each) Campbell's® Condensed Light Chicken Gumbo Soup
1 soup can water
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup frozen okra, thawed
3/4 cup uncooked instant white rice
1/2 pound cooked ham, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 pound peeled and deveined cooked shrimp
Directions
2 cans (10 3/4 ounces each) Campbell's® Condensed Light Chicken Gumbo Soup
1 soup can water
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup frozen okra, thawed
3/4 cup uncooked instant white rice
1/2 pound cooked ham, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 pound peeled and deveined cooked shrimp
Heat the oven to 375°F. Stir the soup, water, onion, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, okra, rice, ham and shrimp in a 2-quart casserole.
Bake for 35 minutes or until the rice is tender. Stir the soup mixture before serving.
Flavor Variation: Try stirring in a little diced andouille sausage for even more Cajun-style flavor!
CORN AND BLACK BEAN TAQUITOS
This begins, “Minimum prep and bake time makes homemade taquitos a healthy "fast food" for busy days. Couple with a side salad for a balanced meal.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Can be viewed at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/7259-corn-and-black-bean-taquitos
Ingredients
8 low carb tortillas
15 oz. black beans, drained
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup frozen corn
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
3 TBSP salsa
2 TBSP lime juice
1/2 tsp cumin
Pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Slightly mash beans with a fork. Add all ingredients together and mix well.
Spoon 3 – 4 TBSP of mixture into the center of each tortilla. Tightly roll and place on greased baking sheet. Spray the taquitos with olive oil or coconut oil cooking spray.
Bake 15-20 minutes or until taquitos are lightly brown and crisp.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 8; For 1 taquito: Calories 102; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 242 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 7 g
AU GRATIN POTATOES
This was in a Weight Watchers' email years ago. The recipe begins, “Our cheesy potato dish is the perfect crowd pleaser: rich enough for your spouse and kids, yet light enough to keep your waistline slim.”
The POINTS® Value at that time listed this as 3 points.
Servings: 8; Preparation Time: 20 min; Cooking Time: 90 min; Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Ingredients
1 sprays cooking spray
1 Tbsp butter
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cup fat-free skim milk
2 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat a 2-quart covered baking dish with cooking spray.
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour; add milk slowly, stirring. Add potatoes and stir to mix. Bring to a boil. Stir in 3/4 cup of cheese, salt and pepper. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and level out surface. Bake for 1 hour, uncovered. Cover and bake until potatoes are fork-tender, about 20 minutes more.
Change oven temperature to broil. Sprinkle remaining cheese over potatoes. Broil 6 inches from the heating element until the cheese is golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into 8 pieces.
JASON'S HOME FRIES
This is one of my oldest son's inventions. He fixed this on one of his many trips back home; it didn't take long to become a favorite.
This can be found in my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.
3 – 4 potatoes, scrubbed, not peeled
1 pepper (red, green or yellow), diced
1 onion, chopped
3 – 4 T butter or oil (or both)
1 clove garlic, minced (opt.)
Cut potatoes across (not length-wise). Heat oil or butter. Add potatoes, onions, pepper and garlic. Cover, cook over medium heat, turning occasionally with a spatula, until brown and crusty.
CHOCOLATE-ESPRESSO SMOOTHIE
This is from the February 2007 issue of Runner’s World.
8 ounces chocolate yogurt, such as Brown Cow “Cream Top”
1 large banana (browned & frozen)*
2 shots espresso, chilled
2 C ice (about 14 ice cubes)
1 dozen chocolate-covered espresso beans
Place half of the yogurt plus all the remaining ingredients in blender & puree until smooth. Add remaining yogurt & pulse until smooth. (If you add full container of yogurt at beginning, mixture is too thick to blend easily.)
For a thicker smoothie, blend in up to a cup more ice. Serves two.
Note:* Any ripe banana will work, but a browned & frozen banana lends better flavor & texture.
With Brown Cow: calories: 230; fat: 7 g; carbs: 39 g; protein: 7 g.
Here are six recipes to help you through the weekend, including Chocolate-Espresso Smoothie and Chicken Piccata. Enjoy!
CHICKEN PICCATA
This comes from Ina Garten of The Food Network’s Barefoot Contesssa. Total Time: 30 minutes; Active Time: 15 minutes; Yield: 2 servings; Level: Intermediate.
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/chicken-piccata-recipe.
Ingredients
2 split (1 whole) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 extra-large egg
1/2 tablespoon water
3/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
Good olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, divided
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons), lemon halves reserved
1/2 cup dry white wine
Sliced lemon, for serving
Chopped fresh parsley leaves, for serving
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Place each chicken breast between 2 sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap and pound out to 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
Mix the flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper in a shallow plate. In a second plate, beat the egg and 1/2 tablespoon of water together. Place the bread crumbs on a third plate. Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, shake off the excess, and then dip in the egg and bread crumb mixtures.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saute pan over medium to medium-low heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2 minutes on each side, until browned. Place them on the sheet pan and allow them to bake for 5 to 10 minutes while you make the sauce.
For the sauce, wipe out the saute pan with a dry paper towel. Over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter and then add the lemon juice, wine, the reserved lemon halves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Boil over high heat until reduced in half, about 2 minutes. Off the heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and swirl to combine. Discard the lemon halves and serve 1 chicken breast on each plate. Spoon on the sauce and serve with a slice of lemon and a sprinkling of fresh parsley.
GUMBO CASSEROLE
This comes from FamilyTime and begins, “Two comfort foods, gumbo and casserole, come together to make a tasty family favorite. Plus, it takes just 15 minutes to put together before you pop it in the oven...you don't even have to cook the rice beforehand.” Makes 4 servings (about 1 1/4 cups each); Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 cans (10 3/4 ounces each) Campbell's® Condensed Light Chicken Gumbo Soup
1 soup can water
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup frozen okra, thawed
3/4 cup uncooked instant white rice
1/2 pound cooked ham, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 pound peeled and deveined cooked shrimp
Directions
2 cans (10 3/4 ounces each) Campbell's® Condensed Light Chicken Gumbo Soup
1 soup can water
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup frozen okra, thawed
3/4 cup uncooked instant white rice
1/2 pound cooked ham, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 pound peeled and deveined cooked shrimp
Heat the oven to 375°F. Stir the soup, water, onion, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, okra, rice, ham and shrimp in a 2-quart casserole.
Bake for 35 minutes or until the rice is tender. Stir the soup mixture before serving.
Flavor Variation: Try stirring in a little diced andouille sausage for even more Cajun-style flavor!
CORN AND BLACK BEAN TAQUITOS
This begins, “Minimum prep and bake time makes homemade taquitos a healthy "fast food" for busy days. Couple with a side salad for a balanced meal.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Can be viewed at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/7259-corn-and-black-bean-taquitos
Ingredients
8 low carb tortillas
15 oz. black beans, drained
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup frozen corn
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
3 TBSP salsa
2 TBSP lime juice
1/2 tsp cumin
Pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Slightly mash beans with a fork. Add all ingredients together and mix well.
Spoon 3 – 4 TBSP of mixture into the center of each tortilla. Tightly roll and place on greased baking sheet. Spray the taquitos with olive oil or coconut oil cooking spray.
Bake 15-20 minutes or until taquitos are lightly brown and crisp.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 8; For 1 taquito: Calories 102; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 242 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 7 g
AU GRATIN POTATOES
This was in a Weight Watchers' email years ago. The recipe begins, “Our cheesy potato dish is the perfect crowd pleaser: rich enough for your spouse and kids, yet light enough to keep your waistline slim.”
The POINTS® Value at that time listed this as 3 points.
Servings: 8; Preparation Time: 20 min; Cooking Time: 90 min; Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Ingredients
1 sprays cooking spray
1 Tbsp butter
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cup fat-free skim milk
2 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat a 2-quart covered baking dish with cooking spray.
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour; add milk slowly, stirring. Add potatoes and stir to mix. Bring to a boil. Stir in 3/4 cup of cheese, salt and pepper. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and level out surface. Bake for 1 hour, uncovered. Cover and bake until potatoes are fork-tender, about 20 minutes more.
Change oven temperature to broil. Sprinkle remaining cheese over potatoes. Broil 6 inches from the heating element until the cheese is golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into 8 pieces.
JASON'S HOME FRIES
This is one of my oldest son's inventions. He fixed this on one of his many trips back home; it didn't take long to become a favorite.
This can be found in my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.
3 – 4 potatoes, scrubbed, not peeled
1 pepper (red, green or yellow), diced
1 onion, chopped
3 – 4 T butter or oil (or both)
1 clove garlic, minced (opt.)
Cut potatoes across (not length-wise). Heat oil or butter. Add potatoes, onions, pepper and garlic. Cover, cook over medium heat, turning occasionally with a spatula, until brown and crusty.
CHOCOLATE-ESPRESSO SMOOTHIE
This is from the February 2007 issue of Runner’s World.
8 ounces chocolate yogurt, such as Brown Cow “Cream Top”
1 large banana (browned & frozen)*
2 shots espresso, chilled
2 C ice (about 14 ice cubes)
1 dozen chocolate-covered espresso beans
Place half of the yogurt plus all the remaining ingredients in blender & puree until smooth. Add remaining yogurt & pulse until smooth. (If you add full container of yogurt at beginning, mixture is too thick to blend easily.)
For a thicker smoothie, blend in up to a cup more ice. Serves two.
Note:* Any ripe banana will work, but a browned & frozen banana lends better flavor & texture.
With Brown Cow: calories: 230; fat: 7 g; carbs: 39 g; protein: 7 g.
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