Vegetarian Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Friday, July 24, 2020

Friday Recipes

It's Friday, the end of the work week (for some of us). Here are six yummy vegetarian recipes to help you through the day, including Vegan Tempeh Reubens and Supernatural Brownies. Enjoy!

FRUIT-GRANOLA CRUMBLE

This recipe and the next (Minted Yogurt Parfait) are found in an article on Prevention, titled “11 Recipes with Fresh Blueberries.” Click here to see the article and all twelve recipes.

Servings: 6

Ingredients

3 C fresh blueberries

4 thinly sliced fresh peaches (about 1 1/4 lb or 4 c) or 1 lb frozen sliced peaches, thawed

1/3 C sugar

2 Tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 C granola (without dried fruit), large pieces broken apart

1/2 C walnut halves, chopped

1 1/2 Tbsp butter

Directions

Heat oven to 375°F.

Mix blueberries and peaches in 8" x 8" pan.

Combine sugar, flour, ginger, and salt and then stir into fruit. Top with granola and walnuts and dot with butter.

Bake until fruit is bubbly, about 45 minutes. Cool at least 5 minutes. Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold.

NUTRITION (per serving) 310 cal, 5 g pro, 55 g carb, 6 g fiber, 10 g fat, 2.5 g sat fat, 280 mg sodium

MINTED YOGURT PARFAIT

Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 1/2 C fresh blueberries

2 Tbsp chopped fresh mint

2 Tbsp honey

1 tsp freshly grated orange zest (from 1 orange), optional

1/4 C pecans, toasted and coarsely chopped

1 C vanilla frozen yogurt

Directions

Toss together blueberries, mint, honey, orange zest (if using), and 3 tablespoons of the pecans in bowl.

Spoon about half of the berry mixture into 4 glasses.

Top each with 2 tablespoons of the frozen yogurt.

Divid remaining berries among the glasses and top each with 2 more tablespoons yogurt. Sprinkle with remaining pecans.

NUTRITION (per serving) 180 cal, 4 g pro, 32 g carb, 3 g fiber, 6 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 30 mg sodium

SUPERNATURAL BROWNIES

This is from Julia Moskin in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Julia wrote, “This recipe is an accidental creation by Nick Malgieri, who (in a rare human moment for a pastry chef) once forgot to double the flour when baking his own fudge brownie recipe. He also adds a measure of brown sugar to the basic formula. The experts are divided as to whether the brown sugar actually contributes flavor or simply makes the brownie moister (molasses, which makes brown sugar brown, is powerfully hydrophilic). It’s my belief that the slightly bitter taste of molasses acts as an invisible enhancer to the chocolate. The result is as complex and sophisticated as any terrine or truffle I have ever produced.”

Yield: 15 large or 24 small brownies; Time: About 1 hour

This was featured in “Simple Pleasure, American Style”, and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

2 sticks (16 tablespoons) butter, more for pan and parchment paper

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate

1 cup dark brown sugar, such as muscovado

1 cup granulated sugar

4 eggs

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup flour

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or 3/4 cup whole walnuts, optional

Preparation

Butter a 13-by-9-inch baking pan and line with buttered parchment paper. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In top of a double boiler set over barely simmering water, or on low power in a microwave, melt butter, chocolate and sugars together. Cool slightly. In a large bowl or mixer, whisk eggs. Whisk in salt and vanilla.

Whisk in chocolate mixture. Fold in flour just until combined. If using chopped walnuts, stir them in. Pour batter into prepared pan. If using whole walnuts, arrange on top of batter. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until shiny and beginning to crack on top. Cool in pan on rack.

Tip

For best flavor, bake 1 day before serving, let cool and store, tightly wrapped.

LATE SUMMER MINESTRONE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND FRESH CORN

This comes from page 61 of the September 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Bright, beautiful, and bursting with veggies, this colorful minestrone is a great way to stretch the harvest.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 Tbs. olive oil

1 cup sliced leeks

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 tsp. salt, optional

4 cloves garlic, minced (4 tsp.)

1 Tbs. chopped fresh sage, or 2 tsp. dried sage

1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 bay leaf

2 large tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped (1 cup)

2 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (3/4- to 1-inch cubes)

2 cups green beans or flat beans, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 15-oz. can or 1 1/2 cups cooked white beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels

1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar

2–3 Tbs. chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish, optional

Directions

Heat oil in 5-qt. Dutch oven or other large soup pot over medium heat. Add leeks, celery, bell pepper, and salt, if using. Cover, and cook 6 to 8 minutes, or until veggies are softened, stirring occasionally. Uncover, and continue cooking 5 to 6 minutes more, or until celery is somewhat shrunken and leeks are browned.

Add garlic, sage, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Stir 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add tomatoes and 8 cups water, and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes. Add squash, cover, and simmer 10 minutes. Add green beans, white beans, and corn; simmer 10 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, stir in vinegar and mint.

nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 185; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 5 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 30 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 130 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Sugar: 7 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

VEGAN TEMPEH REUBENS

I spent years eating reubens, and really missed them when I became a vegetarian. This vegan recipe, from Vegetarian Times, helps me out. It begins, “Thinly sliced tempeh simmered in a flavorful broth makes a great sandwich "meat" in this deli classic. Look for Follow Your Heart vegan cheese, which melts better than other brands.”

Makes 8 servings

Click here to view online.

Ingredients

Seasoned Tempeh

1/4 cup Bragg Liquid Aminos

1 small onion, quartered

2 cloves garlic, peeled

1 bay leaf

1 8-oz. pkg. tempeh, sliced

Thousand Island Dressing

1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise

3 Tbs. relish

2 Tbs. ketchup

Sandwiches

16 slices rye bread

5 oz. vegan Monterey Jack cheese, sliced

2 cups sauerkraut

Preparation

To prepare Seasoned Tempeh:

Combine liquid aminos, onion, garlic, bay leaf, and 2 cups water in saucepan over medium heat. Add tempeh slices, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes. Cover, and let tempeh cool in broth.

To make Thousand Island Dressing:

Stir together mayonnaise, relish, and ketchup in small bowl.

To make Sandwiches:

Toast 8 slices bread. Set aside. Drain tempeh, and discard liquid, onion, garlic, and bay leaf. Place 3 slices tempeh on each slice of remaining bread. Top with cheese slices. Toast or broil 3 to 5 minutes, or until cheese has melted.

Top each sandwich with 1/4 cup sauerkraut. Spread toasted bread slices with Thousand Island Dressing. Place tops on sandwiches, and slice in half.

Calories: 276; Carbohydrate Content: 33 g; Fat Content: 9 g; Fiber Content: 6 g; Protein Content: 14 g; Saturated Fat Content: 1 g; Sodium Content: 971 mg; Sugar Content: 5 g

“MEATBALLS” STROGANOFF

The recipe begins, “For a hot, filling dinner, this take on a traditional Hungarian dish can’t be beat. Frozen spinach lightens it up and makes for a well-balanced meal. Serve over long, wide pasta to soak up the sauce.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

Ingredients

2 tsp. garlic-flavored olive oil

2 cups frozen chopped onion

1 16-oz. bag frozen whole-leaf spinach

1 12-oz. pkg. frozen soy zesty Italian meatballs

1 cup reduced-fat sour cream

Directions

Heat oil in nonstick skillet on medium high. Add onion, and sauté 10 minutes, or until golden. Add 1/3 cup water, spinach and soy meatballs. Cover, and cook over medium heat 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in sour cream just before serving, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until heated through, but without boiling. Season with salt and pepper, and serve over egg noodles, if desired.

PER SERVING: 269 CAL; 18G PROT; 14.5G TOTAL FAT (6G SAT. FAT); 20G CARB; 31MG CHOL; 622MG SOD; 7G FIBER; 5G SUGARS

Thursday, July 23, 2020

Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin is one of those items (and tastes) that most of us associate with autumn. But really, why can't we have pumpkin stuff year 'round?



Here are six yummy pumpkin recipes to help you through the day, including Savory Pumpkin Quiche and Pumpkin Patch Brownies. Enjoy!



PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE

This is from OneGreenPlanet, under the title “How to Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice Latte Without Nasty Ingredients”, by Heather McClees. Heather wrote about the benefits of making this, rather than buying it at your local coffee shop, and ends with, “Now, see how easy that was? This natural, vegan version won’t only taste better but it’s also cheaper, friendlier to your body, and it’s cruelty-free. Enjoy at breakfast with some pumpkin waffles or muffins and even brew some to enjoy with these Clean Eating Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars for dessert!”.

Ingredients

1/2 cup of unsweetened non-dairy milk (check labels to ensure they include no carrageenan)

2 tablespoons of pure pumpkin puree (organic is best)

dash of pumpkin pie spice

natural sweetener like pure stevia, which is sugar-free and chemical-free (or your choice sweetener)

dash of alcohol-free vanilla extract

4-6 ounces of hot, brewed coffee (preferably organic and espresso strength)

Directions

Brew your coffee if you haven’t already.

Grab a small pot and add the milk, pumpkin, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Bring to a low heat and stir together.

Let the mixture warm on the stove for a minute or two just until the milk is warm.

Pour into a large coffee mug, add the coffee and stevia, and stir together.

Enjoy as it is, or add a dollop of soy or coconut whipped cream if you wish.

Add a touch of pumpkin spice as a garnish or a fresh cinnamon stick.



PUMPKIN PATCH BROWNIES

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

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

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 box brownie mix, plus required ingredients

1 c. white chocolate chips

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

green food coloring

1 can chocolate frosting

1 c. crushed oreos

Pumpkin candies

Directions

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

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

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

Slice into squares and serve.

PUMPKIN SOUP

Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.

Source: AICR

Recipe and image appear courtesy of American Institute for Cancer Research.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-soup-2.

Ingredients

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, divided

4 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh) (butternut squash may be substituted)

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 clove garlic

1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

2 Tbsp. light whipping cream (optional)

1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped

Nutmeg (optional)

Directions

In large pot over medium-high heat add 3 cups broth, pumpkin, onion, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring to boil. Reduce to low and simmer uncovered, about 30 minutes.

Puree mixture until smooth, in small batches, using blender or food processor. Return to pot. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes. Add remaining broth as desired. (Optional, stir in cream.)

Pour into bowls. Garnish with parsley (or sprinkle of nutmeg) and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 71; Fat: 1 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 284 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g



PUMPKIN SPICE SCONES

This absolute yumminess comes from The Baker Chick (otherwise known as Audra). If you haven’t checked out her blog, I highly recommend doing so, along with subscribing to it. Go ahead, I’ll wait. (Imagine the sound of me tapping my foot….) Did you ? Great, if you did. If you didn’t, check it out sometime.

Okay, Audra starts off by writing, “Let’s grab a cup of coffee and a scone, what do you say? It’s been a long day, and right now I just want something delicious and a warm cup of coffee. Doesn’t that sound lovely? And, since pumpkin season seems to be at it’s peak, how about these tender, melt-in-your-mouth, Pumpkin Spice Scones? Oh these were so good. Everything you want in a scone really. Nothing dense or tough about these babies- just fall baked good perfection.” At the end of the recipe, Audra, added, “This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.”

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 8 scones. Yum!

To view this online at Audra’s blog, click here.

Ingredients

For the Scones:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons white sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

6 tablespoons cold butter, cut into chunks

1/2 cup pumpkin pureé

3 tablespoons International Delight Pumpkin Pie Spice Creamer

1 large egg

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons International Delight Pumpkin Pie Spice Creamer

dash of cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425F. Prep a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a sil-pat. Set aside.

In a large bowl stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices.

Add the butter, and use a pastry blender or your hands to break down the butter chunks until they are no bigger than the size of a pea. (I like to use my hands and work them in.)

Make a well in the center of the bowl and add the pumpkin and creamer. Stir gently until dough just comes together. (It may seem dry)

Turn dough onto a well-floured surface and knead until dough has moistened and is a cohesive ball.

Shape into a 6-7 inch circle, about 2 inches thick. Cut into 8 equal wedges, and arrange on the cookie sheet.

Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until scones are just golden on the edges. Allow them to cool slightly while you make the glaze.

For the glaze:

Whisk together the powdered sugar, creamer, and cinnamon until smooth and thick. Drizzle over the scones and enjoy warm or room temperature.

SAVORY PUMPKIN QUICHE

This comes from the October 2006 issue of Vegetarian Times. The recipe starts off, “Who says pumpkin pie has to be sweet? This version goes together in no time and makes a great autumn supper served with whole-grain bread and a tossed salad.” Serves 6. Makes 1 8-inch pie.

1/2 cup low-fat Gruyère cheese

1 frozen 9-inch prepared piecrust

1 cup low-fat milk

2 large eggs

1 tsp. chopped thyme

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

1 cup fresh or canned pumpkin puree

Preheat oven to 400°F. Sprinkle cheese over bottom of piecrust.

Whisk together milk, eggs, thyme, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Blend in pumpkin. Pour mixture over cheese in crust.

Bake 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350°F, and bake 45 to 50 minutes more, or until pie filling has set and tip of knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 206; Protein: 9 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g; Cholesterol: 146 mg; Sodium: 321 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 3 g

PUMPKIN FLAN WITH CHOCOLATE CRUST

From "Pumpkin Flan Puts Fall Flavors in Latin Classic" by Linda Cicero in the Miami Herald. Can be viewed online at http://www.miamiherald.com/living/food-drink/cooks-corner/article3416212.html.

1 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup half-and-half

1/2 cup or 4 ounces cream cheese

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

5 large eggs

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/4 cup dark brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or canela

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

Pinch kosher or coarse sea salt

1 1/2 cups coarsely crushed chocolate graham crackers

In a medium saucepan, set over medium-low heat, heat sugar, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until fully dissolved and caramel colored. Quickly pour caramel into the bottoms of 10 individual ramekins, swirling around to coat the bottom of each one. Work swiftly as caramel hardens fast.

In a food processor or blender combine half-and-half, cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt and puree until smooth. Pour pureed mixture into prepared ramekins, filling to 1/4-inch below the rim. Top each ramekin with 2 generous tablespoons of crushed crackers; don’t press them down. Place flans in a large baking dish or roasting pan; fill pan with hot water halfway up the height of the ramekins.

Cover the pan lightly with aluminum foil. Carefully place into the oven and bake for 50 minutes; flans should look completely set. Remove from the oven, remove the aluminum foil and remove each ramekin from the water bath. Let the flans cool completely before covering with plastic wrap and placing in the refrigerator. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. When ready to eat, run a small knife around the edge of each flan all the way to the bottom. Invert dessert plate over ramekin, flip over and shake slightly to release. Leave the ramekin on top of the flan for a minute or so, so all the caramel sauce can run over the flan.

Per serving: 390 calories (30 percent from fat), 13.3 g fat (6.8 g saturated, 4.2 g monounsaturated), 121 mg cholesterol, 0 g protein, 6.4 g carbohydrates, 1.2 g fiber, 203 mg sodium.

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Breakfast

I can almost hear someone saying (or, at least, thinking), "Breakfast? Why do I need breakfast recipes?"

First of all, breakfast is an important meal, so there's that. Add to that the fact that it's perfectly okay to have breakfast for dinner. I've done this several times, as have several other people I've known over the years.

That said, here are six breakfast recipes to try anytime (even dinner!), and include Pumpkin Apple and Pecan Pie Waffles and Pirate Eggs )otherwise known as Eggs-in-a-Hole). Enjoy!

MAPLE & BROWN SUGAR OATMEAL WITH ORANGE, CRANBERRIES & ALMONDS

I somehow ended up on the Kroger emailing list, which is a little strange, considering that 1) there isn't a Kroger anywhere near me, and 2) I don't recall signing up for their emails. No matter…I did visit a Kroger once while visiting family in Knoxville, and will say that while it looks like there are maybe two Krogers in Florida, I wouldn't object to them spreading out, say, to Florida's west coast. (Hey, Kroger people, are you listening?)

For the record, I'd also love to see Wegmans here, too. While I've shopped at Publix for years, it'd be nice to have some competition from the aforementioned two grocery stores. I'll leave it at that…

Anywho, this recipe was in the Kroger emailing list and looked absolutely yummy. While I'm not a fan of instant oatmeal, and plan to use this recipe to come up with something similar using quick cook oats, I'll post it here as it does look good. (Keep in mind that when I tweak it, I'll post the new one, okay?)

Serves: 1; Prep time: 5 minutes; Total time: 5 minutes; Difficulty: Easy

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 package Quaker® Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal, prepared according to package directions

1/4 orange, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon dried cranberries

1 tablespoon sliced almonds

1 tablespoon orange zest, grated

Directions

Top oatmeal with orange, dried cranberries and sliced almonds. Garnish with orange zest.

PUMPKIN, APPLE, AND PECAN PIE WAFFLES

This is from Annie Oliver on OneGreenPlanet. Annie wrote, “Around these parts, Sundays are reserved for “special” breakfasts like French toast, pancakes, or waffles – and waffles are the hands down favorite in our household. Sunday could come seven days a week and I’d still wake up each morning craving crispy, chewy waffles generously coated in nut butter, slices of banana, and cacao nibs.”

At 673 calories, these are dairy free, sugar free/low sugar, an vegan. Serves 2.

You can view this online at https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/pumpkin-apple-and-pecan-pie-waffles/.

Ingredients

2 cups gluten-free flour mix

2 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. xanthan gum

1/2 tsp. powdered stevia (or your favorite sweetener, to taste)

pinch salt

2 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. ground ginger

1/4 tsp. ground cloves

2 cups non-dairy milk

1 cup pumpkin puree

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/2 tsp. maple extract

1/4 cup pecans, chopped

1/2 sweet apple, peeled, cored, and chopped

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F and set some plates in there to warm up. Preheat your waffle iron.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour through the ground cloves. In a smaller bowl, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, applesauce, and extract.

Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk together to combine. Break down any dry lumps of flour. Stir in the pecans and chopped apple.

Lightly spray the waffle iron with oil and place large spoonfuls of batter onto it. Gently spread the batter until it almost reaches the sides. Close and bake for about 6 minutes.

Transfer cooked waffles to the warm oven while you cook with the remaining batter.

Serve with fresh fruit and maple syrup – or your favorite waffle toppings.

RASPBERRY CHOCOLATE CHIP PANCAKES

This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 16 to 18 (4-inch) pancakes.

Ingredients

1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter

3/4 cups plus 3 tablespoons milk

1 large egg

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup picked-over raspberries

1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

In a small saucepan melt 2 tablespoons butter over moderately low heat, stirring. Stir in milk and heat until just warm. Remove pan from heat. In a bowl whisk together milk mixture and egg. Into another bowl sift together flour, baking powder, and salt and stir in egg mixture until just combined. Gently stir in raspberries and chocolate chips.

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Heat a griddle over moderate heat until hot enough to make a drop of water scatter over surface. Add 1 teaspoon butter and with a metal spatula spread over griddle. Working in batches, drop 1/4-cup measures of batter onto griddle to form pancakes about 4 inches in diameter and cook until bubbles appear on surface and undersides are golden brown, about 2 minutes. Flip pancakes with spatula and cook until undersides are golden brown and pancakes are cooked through. Transfer pancakes as cooked to an ovenproof platter and keep warm, uncovered, in oven. Make more pancakes with remaining butter and batter in same manner.

Serve pancakes with syrup. Makes about 10 pancakes, serving 2 generously.

Accompaniment: pure maple syrup, heated

PUMPKIN PANCAKES WITH HOT CIDER SYRUP

This is from a long-since-forgotten emailing list, though it's apparently a diabetic emailing list that I was on for a while.

Ingredients

2 cups flour

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

4 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 1/2 cups milk

1 cup canned pumpkin, mashed

4 egg yolks

4 ounces melted butter

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

4 egg whites, stiffly beaten

Directions

In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg.

In a separate bowl, combine milk, pumpkin, egg yolks, butter and vanilla extract. Pour combined liquid ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just blended. Carefully fold in egg whites. Cook pancakes on a light oiled griddle.

Hot Cider Syrup

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups apple cider

1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed

1 cup corn syrup

2 ounces butter

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Grated rind from 1 lemon

2 apples, peeled, cored and thinly sliced

Directions

In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and lemon rind. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Add apples. Heat for several minutes more. Serve over pancakes.

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Grain (Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 1 Fruit; 5 1/2 Fat; 4 1/2 Other Carbohydrates

Per serving: 786 Calories (kcal); 29g Total Fat; (32% calories from fat); 11g Protein; 124g Carbohydrate; 212mg Cholesterol; 977mg Sodium

CHICKPEA AND CHERRY FRITTATA

This is from the February 2014 issue of Runner’s World. It begins, “All runners (not just diabetics) benefit from the abundant carbs, protein, and antioxidants in this tasty dish. ‘It's big and bold-flavored,’ says (Sam) Talbot,” a runner, surfer, and type 1 diabetic who “makes this dish for a hearty pick-me-up breakfast after a morning workout.” Serves 4 to 6.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

8 eggs, lightly whisked

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 cup chopped fresh cherries or 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries

4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves

2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 cup loosely packed, torn fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix the eggs, chickpeas, cherries, goat cheese, almond milk, thyme, agave nectar, and cream of tartar. In a medium ovenproof skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes without stirring. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake till the eggs are puffed and set in the middle, about 20 minutes. Let the frittata cool for 5 to 10 minutes. With a rubber spatula, gently work the frittata out of the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Cut the frittata into wedges and serve garnished with the mint. Serves four to six.

Nutrition Information: Calories Per Serving: 395; Carbs: 25 g; Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 22 g; Fat: 22 g

PIRATE EGGS

When my sister and I were kids, my mother used to fix this for us on a regular basis, except that she called them Gypsy Eggs. Once my brother came along, though, they became Pirate Eggs. The name stuck. Most people from the Northeastern U.S. tend to call them Eggs-in-a-Hole or some variation of that. But whatever you call them, they're good.

The instructions are for one person. Adjust for the number of people you're feeding.

Ingredients

1-2 eggs

1-2 pieces of bread

margarine for the pan

Directions

Melt the margarine in the pan over medium heat. Take the bread and cut a round hole in the middle. Place bread in pan, then crack the egg and dump onto the bread so that the yolk is in the hold. If you prefer non-runny yolks (my preference), crack the yolk with the corner of a spatula. Cook on the first side for several minutes, then flip over and cook the other side. You can flip it several times until the egg looks cooked. Enjoy!

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Double-Post Tuesday

Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday (because not everyone loves tacos!). Here are six recipes to help you through the day, including Roasted Asparagus and Pink Lady Punch. Enjoy!

CHICKLESS POT PIE

This comes from country star Trisha Yearwood, who also has her own show on The Food Network (called Trisha's Southern Kitchen). The recipe starts off, “Trisha Yearwood's vegetarian take on chicken pot pie is just as decadent without the meat. Although the luscious vegetable filling with peas, carrots and potatoes could be a meal on its own, wrapping it in premade pie dough seals in flavor with a crispy crust.” Total Time: 1 hr 25 min; Prep: 25 min; Inactive: 10 min; Cook: 50 min; Yield: 8 servings; Level: easy

Read more online at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/trisha-yearwood/chickless-pot-pie-recipe.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

1 cup thinly sliced carrots

1 cup frozen green peas

1 cup small diced potatoes

1/2 cup thinly sliced celery

1/3 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup butter substitute, such as Earth Balance

1/3 cup unbleached, all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon celery seed

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1 3/4 cups vegetable broth

2/3 cup almond milk

Two 9-inch unbaked pie crusts, lard free

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a jelly-roll pan or baking sheet with foil to place the pie on before cooking; it will keep any filling from dripping into the oven and burning.

In a medium saucepan, combine the carrots, peas, potatoes and celery. Cover with water, bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat, drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the onions in the butter substitute until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, celery seed and garlic powder. Cook for 2 minutes to get the flour taste out. Slowly stir in the broth and then add the milk. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until thick, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the drained vegetables.

Roll out one of the unbaked crusts to a 13-inch diameter and place in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Pour the mixture into the bottom crust. Roll out the second pie crust and place on top. Seal the edges and cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly, 30 to 35 minutes. If the top of the pie becomes too dark, loosely cover with foil and continue cooking. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

PINK LADY PUNCH

Not sure where this one came from, though I'm thinking maybe from one of my mother's cookbooks that she bought to raise funds for some group or other...

This, as well as other yummy recipes, can be found in my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.

4 C cranberry juice

1 1/2 C sugar

4 C pineapple juice

2 qts. chilled ginger ale

Add sugar to cranberry juice. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add pineapple juice. Chill. Pour into punch bowl & add ginger ale.

WATERMELON PUNCH

Years ago, I was a bride’s maid at a friend’s wedding. A friend of the couple held the reception dinner; this punch was served with the hors d’oeuvres. I’ve added ginger ale to the recipe; it’s good either way.

This, as well as other yummy recipes, can be found in my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.

1 watermelon

1 T honey

6 oz. can orange juice, undiluted

2 liter bottle ginger ale

Put watermelon (excluding rind and seeds) in a blender—and blend. Pour juice through a strainer into a large bowl. Add orange juice and honey, stir, and add ice. Add ginger ale just before serving.

ROASTED ASPARAGUS

Servings: 4

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/225.shtml

Ingredients

1 lb fresh asparagus

2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, shredded

2 tsp olive oil

1 lemon, cut into wedges

Directions

Preheat oven to 500 degrees.

Arrange in a single layer in a shallow baking pan. With a pastry brush, paint the oil on the asparagus spears.

Roast until tender but still crisp, 8 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness of stalks. Turn spears occasionally for even cooking and to avoid browning.

Place asparagus spears on serving platter. Sprinkle with cheese. Serve with lemon wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 76; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 71 mg; Cholesterol: 3 mg; Carbohydrates: 6 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable; 1 Fat

FARFALLE WITH ARTICHOKES, PEAS, FAVAS AND ONIONS

This is from Martha Rose Schulman in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Martha wrote, “The vegetable ragout that accompanies the farfalle here is inspired by a more labor-intensive, longer-cooking Sicilian spring stew called fritteda. The Sicilian version would also include fennel, and a lot more olive oil.”

Yield: 6 servings; Time: 1 hour

This was featured in “Pastas of Spring” and can be viewed online here.

Check out “How to Make Pasta” by Samin Nosrat.

Ingredients

Juice of 1 lemon

4 medium or 2 large artichokes, or 8 baby artichokes

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/2 pound spring onions or scallions, white and light green parts only, finely chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 pounds fava beans, shelled and skinned

2 cups shelled peas (about 2 1/2 pounds fresh peas in the pod)

2 teaspoons chopped mint

3/4 pound farfalle

Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino (or a combination) for serving

Preparation

Fill a bowl with water and add the lemon juice. Cut away the stem and the top third of each artichoke, break off the leaves and trim them down to the bottoms, placing them in the water as you go along. Quarter them and slice large quarters about 1/4 inch thick. Save the leaves and steam them; serve them as a first course or a side dish.

Drain the artichoke hearts and dry on a clean dish towel. Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large, heavy lidded skillet or Dutch oven. Add the sliced artichoke hearts and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Turn the heat down to medium, add the onions (or scallions) and cook, stirring, until the onions are tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the peas and favas, 2/3 cup water and salt to taste and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until all of the vegetables are tender. Taste, adjust salt and add pepper to taste. Stir in the mint and remove from the heat, but keep warm while you cook the pasta.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt to taste and the pasta. Cook al dente, usually 10 to 11 minutes for farfalle. Add a ladleful of the cooking water from the pasta to the vegetable mixture and drain the pasta. Toss with the vegetables and serve, with Parmesan or Pecorino, or both.

Tip

Advance preparation: The vegetables can be cooked a day ahead, and will keep for 3 or 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet, adding pasta cooking water to moisten.

BLACK BEAN AND CORN SALAD

This comes from Rachel Ray, star of The Food Network's 30 Minute Meals. Total Time: 25 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Inactive Time: 15 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

Read more at:http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/black-bean-and-corn-salad-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

1 can, 14 ounces, black beans, rinsed and drained

2 cups frozen corn kernels

1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1/2 red onion, chopped

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, half a palm full

2 teaspoons hot sauce, just eyeball the amount (recommended: Tabasco)

1 lime, juiced

2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil, eyeball it

Salt and pepper

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Let stand at least 15 minutes for corn to fully defrost and flavors to combine, then toss and serve. The corn will also place a quick-chill on this easy side-salad as it defrosts - no need to refrigerate!

Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday, where we get to try new taco recipes. (Yay!) Today's offerings include Soft Black Bean Tacos with Salsa and Cabbage and Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos with Greek Yogurt Ranch. Enjoy!

BLACK BEAN TACOS WITH AVOCADO AND SPICY ONIONS

This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “Spicy pickled onions add brightness and tang to these hearty black bean tacos. The filling is a bit like chili but without the tomato, and perfect to wrap up in a tortilla. You can make the black beans up to 5 days ahead; they even freeze well. Then just warm them up, along with the tortillas, right before serving. The spicy onions will last for weeks in the fridge. Use them on everything: soups, salads, even grilled cheese sandwiches.”

Yield: 4 servings; Time: 45 minutes

This was featured in “The Meat-Lover’s Guide to Eating Less Meat”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020744-black-bean-tacos-with-avocado-and-spicy-onions.

Ingredients

For the Spicy Onions:

1 lime

1 small red onion or large shallot, thinly sliced

1 jalapeño, seeded and thinly sliced

Large pinch of fine sea salt

Small pinch of granulated sugar

For the Black Beans

2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed

1 large onion, chopped

1/2 cup diced red or green bell pepper

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1/2 tablespoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed

Fine sea salt

Corn tortillas, warmed

1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced

Fresh cilantro, salsa and sour cream, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Make the spicy onions: Squeeze the lime into a bowl and add the onion or shallot, jalapeño, salt and sugar to the juice. Set aside while you make the black beans.

Prepare the beans: Heat a large skillet, then add 2 tablespoons oil. When oil is hot, add the onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft and golden, about 10 minutes. If the pan looks dry, drizzle in a little more oil.

Add the garlic and jalapeño and sauté until fragrant, 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, oregano and cumin, and sauté until fragrant. Add the beans and a few large pinches of salt and let simmer until the flavors meld, about 15 minutes.

Taste and add more salt, chili powder and oregano to taste. Serve beans with tortillas and avocado and top with the pickled onions and jalapeño and some of their liquid, adding any of the garnishes you like.

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER TACOS WITH GREEK YOGURT RANCH

This is from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Servings: 2 - 4

To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/buffalo-cauliflower-tacos-with-greek-yogurt-ranch/.

Ingredients

1 cup Bob's Red Mill 1:1 Gluten-free Baking Flour (or sub white whole wheat flour)

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup water

1/2 tablespoon lemon pepper

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 head cauliflower

1/2 cup buffalo sauce

15 oz. can organic sweet kernel corn, rinsed and drained

8 gluten-free corn tortillas (or sub flour ones if you prefer)

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

1 cup mixed greens (or sub chopped red cabbage)

1/4 cup Hidden Valley® Greek Yogurt Ranch

Directions

Preheat oven to 450°F.

Combine the batter ingredients in a medium mixing bowl: flour, milk, water, lemon pepper and sea salt.

Break or cut the cauliflower into small 1 1/2 inch pieces.

Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying with nonstick spray.

Dip each cauliflower piece into the batter, completely covering it and then shake off any excess batter before laying it on the foil. Repeat for all cauliflower pieces being sure to lay them in a single layer without having them touch each other.

Bake for 15 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, over medium-high heat, cook your sweet kernel corn for approximately 10 minutes. Let it sit and stick to the bottom of the pan periodically so that it caramelizes and gets some of that charred look/flavor. Set aside.

Once the cauliflower is done baking (they should be lightly browned, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside), put the pieces in a bowl with the buffalo sauce and stir until completely covered.

Assemble your tacos immediately: corn tortillas, buffalo cauliflower, a spoonful of roasted corn, a pinch of diced cilantro and a drizzle of Hidden Valley® Greek Yogurt Ranch.

Note: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.

LOADED CRISPY TOFU TACOS

This is from The Woks of Life, and can be viewed online at http://thewoksoflife.com/2014/07/loaded-crispy-tofu-tacos/.

Prep time: 30 mins; Cook time: 15 mins; Total time: 45 mins; Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

You'll need:

1 package firm tofu

1 tablespoon Sriracha

1 tablespoon honey

1/2 cup fine cornmeal

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1/4 cup oil

3 scallions

1 bunch cilantro

1/4 cup yogurt

warm corn tortillas

Other toppings:

shredded cheese

chopped tomato

chopped onion

sweet corn

avocado

lime wedges

Instructions

Cut the tofu into 3/4 inch cubes. In a wide, shallow bowl, combine the Sriracha and honey, and gently toss the tofu in the mixture. In another wide, shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, chili powder, cumin, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Toss the tofu in this dry mixture until well-coated.

In a cast iron or non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat. Add the tofu and allow the pieces to crisp up on all sides. While that's happening, whizz up the scallions, cilantro, and yogurt in a food processor or blender. Build your tacos with tortillas, your sauce, and whatever toppings you like.

SOFT BLACK BEAN TACOS WITH SALSA AND CABBAGE

This comes from Martha Rose Shulman, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Martha wrote, “Canned black beans and lots of cabbage combine in a quick, utterly satisfying one-dish taco dinner. They can be served open-faced or folded over.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: about 20 minutes.

This was featured in “Quick One-Dish Meals, Some Cooking Required” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon canola or grape seed oil

1 teaspoon medium-hot chili powder (more to taste)

1 teaspoon ground lightly toasted cumin seeds (more to taste)

2 cans black beans, with liquid

Salt to taste

8 corn tortillas

1 cup fresh or bottled salsa

3 ounces either queso fresco, feta, or sharp cheddar, grated or crumbled

2 cups shredded cabbage

Preparation

Heat the oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add the chili powder and ground cumin. Allow the spices to sizzle for about half a minute, until very fragrant, and stir in the black beans and 1/2 cup water. Cook, stirring and mashing the beans with the back of your spoon, for 5 to 10 minutes, until thick and fragrant. Be careful that you don’t let the beans dry out too much. If they do, add a little more water. Remove from the heat.

Heat the tortillas, two or three at a time, in a dry skillet over medium-high heat, or in a microwave. Top with the black beans, salsa, cheese and cabbage. Fold the filled tortillas over if desired and serve. Alternatively, one at a time, place a tortilla on a plate, top with the beans and cheese and heat through for 30 seconds to a minute in a microwave. Then top with salsa and a generous handful of cabbage, and serve.

Tip

Make fresh salsa with 2 or 3 chopped roma tomatoes, 1 or 2 jalapeños or serrano chiles, a little chopped onion or shallot if desired, salt, a squeeze of lime juice, and chopped fresh cilantro.

ROASTED TOMATILLO AND BLACK BEAN TACOS

This yummy recipe was updated on the Vegetarian Times website on April 30, 2020. It begins, “To prepare fresh tomatillos, strip off the husks and rinse under warm water to remove any sticky sap clinging to the skin.”

Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/roasted-tomatillo-and-black-bean-tacos-recipe.

Ingredients

Ingredients

3/4 lb. fresh whole tomatillos, husks removed

1 small onion, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (1 cup)

1 small red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (1 cup)

3 large cloves garlic, peeled

3 Tbs. coarsely chopped cilantro, divided

1 1/2 tsp. minced jalapeno pepper

1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

4 6-inch corn tortillas, warmed

1 small avocado, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

2 Tbs. queso fresco or feta cheese

1/4 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed, optional

1/4 cup low-fat sour cream, optional

Preparation

Preheat oven to broil. Place oven rack 3 inches from heat source. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray, and spread tomatillos, onion, red bell pepper, and garlic on prepared baking sheet. Broil 12 minutes, or until tomatillos are blistered and charred, and onion and bell pepper are softened and charred, tossing once halfway through cooking time.

Pulse garlic, 1 Tbs. cilantro, jalapeño, and tomatillos 10 times in food processor, or until chunky. Season with salt and pepper.

Toss 1/4 cup tomatillo sauce with black beans, red bell pepper, and onion.

Fill tortillas with black bean mixture, avocado, and queso fresco. Garnish with remaining cilantro and corn kernels, if desired. Serve remaining tomatillo sauce and sour cream, if desired, on side.

BLACK BEAN & TOASTED CORN TACOS

This yummy recipe was updated on the Vegetarian Times website on July 28, 2019. It begins, "Surprise! These brown-bag-friendly tacos are just as good chilled as they are served hot."

Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 4

This can be viewed online at https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/black-bean-toasted-corn-tacos.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked black beans

1/2 cup prepared salsa

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

2 1/2 tsp. ground cumin, divided

1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

4 6-inch corn tortillas

12 baby spinach leaves

1/2 cup jarred roasted red pepper strips

1/4 cup coarsely chopped cilantro

2 small green onions, finely chopped (1/4 cup)

1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese, optional

Preparation

Bring beans, salsa, garlic, and 1 tsp. cumin to a simmer in saucepan. Reduce heat to medium low, and cook 5 to 6 minutes, or until soft. Remove from heat, and mash with fork to crush beans for creamier filling, if desired.

Heat skillet over medium-high heat, and coat with olive oil cooking spray. Wrap corn in paper towels, and squeeze out excess water. Add corn to skillet in single layer, and sprinkle with remaining 1 1/2 tsp. cumin, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste. Cook 5 to 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy, stirring frequently.

Preheat oven or toaster oven to 350°F. Toast tortillas in toaster oven 1 minute to soften. Alternately, bake tortillas on taco baking rack in oven 7 to 10 minutes, or until crisp. Fill each tortilla with 1/4 cup beans, 1/4 cup corn, 3 spinach leaves, red pepper strips, cilantro, and green onions. Top each taco with 1 Tbs. cheese, if using. Serve immediately, or pack into lunch container, and chill.

Monday, July 20, 2020

Monday Recipes

It's Monday, time to start the week off again. Here are six yummy recipes to get your week off just right, including Carolina-Style Barbecue Sandwiches and Vegan Mapo Tofu. Enjoy!

VEGETARIAN SWEDISH MEATBALLS

This is from Kay Chun in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Kay wrote, "Cremini mushrooms, chickpeas and bulgur wheat mimic the texture of ground meat in this vegetarian version of the classic Swedish meatball dish. Seasoned generously with allspice and nutmeg and blanketed in a velvety mushroom gravy, they are excellent served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes — or spooned onto a toasted hero (add sliced tangy pickles to balance out the richness). Leftover cooked meatballs can be frozen and reheated in a 425-degree oven until warmed through, about 15 minutes."

Yield: 2 dozen meatballs; Time: 50 minutes.

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020839-vegetarian-swedish-meatballs.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

2 tablespoons bulgur wheat

4 cremini mushrooms, stemmed and quartered

1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed (about 1 1/2 cups)

1/3 cup plain bread crumbs

1/4 cup sour cream

1 large egg

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

3/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg

Canola oil, for greasing

For the Gravy:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups mushroom stock (or vegetable stock)

1 tablespoon sour cream

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Make the meatballs: Heat oven to 375 degrees. Bring 1/4 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add the bulgur, remove from heat, cover and let sit until tender, 15 minutes. Drain, pressing to remove excess water. Cool.

Meanwhile, in a food processor, pulse mushrooms until finely chopped with some pea-size pieces remaining (do not purée); transfer to a large bowl. Repeat with the chickpeas: Pulse, then add them to the large bowl. Add the bread crumbs, sour cream, egg, salt, allspice, pepper, onion powder, nutmeg and the cooled bulgur and mix until well blended. Form into 1 1/4-inch meatballs (about 2 teaspoons each; you should have about 24). Arrange on a greased baking sheet and bake, turning halfway, until golden, 18 to 20 minutes.

Make the gravy: While the meatballs bake, in a large nonstick saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook, whisking constantly, until smooth and lightly golden, 2 minutes. Add stock and bring to a simmer. Cook, whisking, until thickened, 2 minutes. Whisk in sour cream, parsley and mustard; season to taste with salt and pepper (you should have about 1 cup gravy). Add meatballs and simmer, spooning sauce over meatballs, until nicely coated, about 2 minutes more. Serve warm.

MAPLE & BROWN SUGAR OATMEAL WITH ORANGE, CRANBERRIES & ALMONDS

I somehow ended up on the Kroger emailing list, which is a little strange, considering that 1) there isn't a Kroger anywhere near me, and 2) I don't recall signing up for their emails. No matter…I did visit a Kroger once while visiting family in Knoxville, and will say that while it looks like there are maybe two Krogers in Florida, I wouldn't object to them spreading out, say, to Florida's west coast. (Hey, Kroger people, are you listening?)

For the record, I'd also love to see Wegmans here, too. While I've shopped at Publix for years, it'd be nice to have some competition from the aforementioned two grocery stores. I'll leave it at that…

Anywho, this recipe was in the Kroger emailing list and looked absolutely yummy. While I'm not a fan of instant oatmeal, and plan to use this recipe to come up with something similar using quick cook oats, I'll post it here as it does look good. (Keep in mind that when I tweak it, I'll post the new one, okay?)

Serves: 1; Prep time: 5 minutes; Total time: 5 minutes; Difficulty: Easy

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 package Quaker® Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal, prepared according to package directions

1/4 orange, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon dried cranberries

1 tablespoon sliced almonds

1 tablespoon orange zest, grated

Directions

Top oatmeal with orange, dried cranberries and sliced almonds. Garnish with orange zest.

VEGAN MAPO TOFU

This is from David Tanis in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. David wrote, “Mapo tofu is a justly popular menu item in many Chinese restaurants. It is a quickly cooked dish of braised tofu with minced pork (sometimes beef) in a bracing spicy sauce made with fermented black beans and fermented broad bean paste, along with hot red pepper and Sichuan pepper. This meatless version with fresh shiitake mushrooms is completely satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. For the best texture, use soft tofu rather than firm, taking care to cook it gently to keep it from crumbling.”

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

This was featured in “Mapo Tofu Goes Vegetarian”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017358-vegan-mapo-tofu.

Ingredients

8 ounces shiitake mushrooms

2 cups water

15 ounce block of soft tofu (do not use silken)

Salt

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

3 small dried hot red peppers

1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed

1 tablespoon fermented spicy broad bean paste (doubanjiang)

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 tablespoon grated ginger

2 teaspoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

1 teaspoon finely ground Sichuan pepper

1 tablespoon corn- or potato starch, dissolved in 3 tablespoons cold water

1/2 cup slivered scallions, both white and green parts

Cilantro sprigs, for garnish

Preparation

Remove stems from mushrooms. Make a light mushroom broth by simmering stems in 2 cups water for 15 minutes, then strain and reserve broth (discard stems). Dice mushroom caps and set aside.

Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes. Cover with boiling salted water, let steep for 15 minutes, then drain.

Put oil in a wok or wide skillet over medium heat. Add red peppers, black beans and bean paste and cook, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add garlic and ginger and let sizzle, then add mushrooms, soy sauce, sesame oil and Sichuan pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups mushroom broth and cook mixture gently for 2 minutes.

Carefully add tofu cubes. Shake pan to distribute sauce, using a wooden spoon to help. Try to avoid smashing tofu. Drizzle in cornstarch mixture, gently swirling pan to incorporate (sauce will thicken) and simmer tofu in sauce for 2 minutes more. Thin with a little mushroom broth if necessary. Transfer to a low bowl or platter. Sprinkle with scallions and cilantro sprigs.

PUMPKIN SOUP

Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.

Source: AICR

Recipe and image appear courtesy of American Institute for Cancer Research.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-soup-2.

Ingredients

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, divided

4 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh) (butternut squash may be substituted)

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 clove garlic

1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

2 Tbsp. light whipping cream (optional)

1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped

Nutmeg (optional)

Directions

In large pot over medium-high heat add 3 cups broth, pumpkin, onion, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring to boil. Reduce to low and simmer uncovered, about 30 minutes.

Puree mixture until smooth, in small batches, using blender or food processor. Return to pot. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes. Add remaining broth as desired. (Optional, stir in cream.)

Pour into bowls. Garnish with parsley (or sprinkle of nutmeg) and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 71; Fat: 1 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 284 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g

CAROLINA-STYLE BARBECUE SANDWICHES

This is from Vegetarian Times (posted on the website on May 9, 2017), and begins, "A tangy mustard-based sauce distinguishes Carolina-style barbecue from its sweeter Kansas City cousin. This recipe makes 2 cups of sauce, leaving plenty to serve on the side. For crunch in your sandwiches, buy coleslaw at the deli, or make Deep South Slaw."

Makes: 4 servings.

To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/carolina-style-barbecue-sandwiches.

Ingredients

1 cup apple cider vinegar

2/3 cup no-salt-added ketchup, such as Heinz

1/4 cup yellow mustard

3 Tbs. dark brown sugar

1 Tbs. molasses

2 tsp. Louisiana-style hot sauce

2 tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. salt

12 oz. seitan, cut into thin strips

4 hamburger-style buns

12 pickle chips, optional

1 cup prepared coleslaw, optional

Directions

Bring vinegar, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, molasses, hot sauce, black pepper, and salt to a simmer in saucepan over medium heat. Cook 5 minutes. Transfer 1 cup sauce to bowl, and set aside. Add seitan to saucepan, and cook 10 minutes. Divide among buns. Serve with pickle chips, coleslaw, and extra sauce, if using.

DEEP SOUTH SLAW

This is from Vegetarian Times (updated on the website on June 11, 2019), and begins, "The key to perfect coleslaw is a creamy base, a hint of sweetness, a touch of tangy vinegar, and, in the case of Cajun versions, a little kick from hot sauce or cayenne pepper."

Makes: 8 Servings

This can be viewed online at https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/deep-south-slaw.

Ingredients

2 medium carrots, grated

10 oz. green cabbage, thinly sliced (4 cups)

1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced (1 cup)

3 Tbs. vegan mayonnaise

2 Tbs. whole-grain mustard

1 Tbs. cider vinegar

1 Tbs. sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

1/2 cup parsley, chopped

Directions

Combine cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper in large bowl. Whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and cayenne pepper in small bowl. Pour mayonnaise mixture over cabbage mixture, and toss to coat. Chill well. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Saturday, July 18, 2020

Cool Desserts

At this time of year, we all could use some cool desserts. They're yummy (hint: desserts), refreshing, and cool.

With that in mind, here are six yummy cool desserts for you to try, including three granita recipes, as well as Homemade Rocky Road Ice Cream, Basic Mason Jar Ice Cream, and Coffee Popsicles with Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Banana. Enjoy!

PEACH GRANITA

This is from Michelle Stark of the Tampa Bay Times. The article that this, and the next two recipes are in (Strawberry Granita and Watermelon Mint Granita) were in begins, "There are some treats better left to the experts, like ice cream. That’s why this week’s cover story is a roundup of new places in the Tampa Bay area from which you can grab a cold cone this summer.

"But there are refreshing icy treats you can make at home, as the heat continues to be relentless and time continues to crawl. (How is it only early July?!) One of my favorites is granita, which I have written about before and will write about again because it is so easy yet so delicious.

"It basically has the components of a lemonade or other homemade juice: fruit, water, sugar. Except you freeze it, and scrape it every so often with a fork, so it resembles sort of a fluffier shaved ice situation.

"Here are three of my favorite recipes."

Ingredients

4 ripe peaches (about 1 1/2 pounds), pitted and coarsely chopped

1/2 cup water 1/4 cup sugar, plus more if needed

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Directions

Coarse salt Puree peaches, water, sugar, lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a blender. Taste; if you want it sweeter, add a bit more sugar.

Transfer to an 8-inch-square baking dish. Freeze for 3 hours, scraping with a fork every hour. (The mixture should be icy and fluffy.) Serve.

STRAWBERRY GRANITA

Adapted from Epicurious

Ingredients

1 cup hot water

3/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3 cups sliced hulled strawberries (1 pound whole berries) plus additional berries for garnish

Directions

Stir first 3 ingredients in small bowl until sugar dissolves.

Blend 3 cups strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add sugar mixture and blend until combined. Pour mixture into13- by 9-inch glass baking pan. Freeze until icy around edges, about 25 minutes. Using fork, stir icy portions into middle of pan. Freeze until mixture is frozen, stirring edges into center every 20 to 30 minutes, about 1 1/2 hours. Using fork, scrape granita into flaky crystals. Cover tightly and freeze. Serve.

WATERMELON MINT GRANITA

Ingredients

1 small to medium-sized watermelon

4 limes

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 roughly chopped mint

Directions

Cube and deseed watermelon. Firmly roll out the limes on a counter to release their juices, then cut in half and juice.

Blend the juice of all 4 limes, the watermelon, sugar and mint in a blender until it is a pourable liquid.

Pour into a baking dish or individual serving cups and freeze for about 3 to 6 hours, until the liquid has become slush.

Crush or scrape the granita with a fork and freeze for another 1 to 2 hours, until slushy but firm. Stir again and serve.

BASIC MASON JAR ICE CREAM

This is from Amelia Nierenberg in the Sunday May 10, 2020 New York Times. Unfortunately, much as I've searched, I can't seem to locate a link for it. It yields about three servings.

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream

1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

A 16-oz. Mason jar, of course

Preparation

Pour the cream, sugar, vanilla and salt into the jar, and screw on the lid tightly.

Shake vigorously, until the cream thickens and almost doubles in size, which should take about five minutes. You'll know you're done when the mixture doubles in volume and is about the consistency of brownie batter.

Freeze for at least 3 hours. Then eat. You're welcome.

COFFEE POPSICLES WITH CHOCOLATE, PEANUT BUTTER AND BANANA

This also comes from Frances Bargeman-Roth, RD, on the Today website. Frances wrote, “Turn to these ice pops when you need to feel more energized. I love warm weather, but sometimes a day out in the burning sun can leave me feeling less than peppy. That's when I want a cool treat that also gives me a kick of caffeine. These provide just the right amount for an early afternoon boost.”

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Yield: 6

To view this online, click here.

Note: You will need six (3-ounce) ice pop molds with sticks.

Ingredients

6 ounces unsweetened cold brew coffee concentrate (such as Chameleon)

1 banana

1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

8 ounces coconut milk

2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

1 tablespoon cacao nibs, optional

1 teaspoon honey, optional

Preparation

Place all ingredients in a blender and combine until smooth.

Pour the coffee mixture evenly into 6 pop molds and transfer to the freezer. Freeze for 6-8 hours, or overnight.

To unmold, run the pop briefly under warm water, remove and enjoy.

HOMEMADE ROCKY ROAD ICE CREAM

This comes from the almost-infamous long-since-forgotten-email-list. While I don’t remember who sent this to the list, but whoever sent it in wrote, “I love this ice cream, very creamy and I'd say it tastes better than store bought. Hope you like it as much as we do!!” Time: 45 min; 5 min prep; serves 10 - 12

Ingredients

2 cups 2% low-fat milk

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows (or if you REALLY like them you can use half a bag like I do!)

2/3 cup sliced almonds

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa

Directions

Mix all ingredients together in cylinder of ice cream maker; freeze according to manufacturers directions.

Allow to set in freezer for 2-4 hours.