TREAT & TRICK

VEGAN SWEET ROLLS

2012-01-31T11:49:00.001+08:00

A fluffy and amazing rolls that can be shaped in many ways. The dough is so great to work with. I turned them into a roll stuffed them with thinly sliced banana and chocolate chip. Unlike the regular bread rolls, I didn't slice them before baking but bake them as a loaf.

Within an hour, it is well risen and baked beautifully. The rolls were incredibly well received, compliments all around. A sinful combination and so light!

VEGAN SWEET ROLLS
Yield : 10 rolls

2 C all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
3 TB vegetable oil
3/4 C warm water
2 tsp sugar
3/4 tsp salt

FILLING
2 TB melted vegan butter
1/2 C chocolate chip
2 medium banana thinly sliced
2 TB brown sugar

METHOD

Combine flour, yeast, sugar and salt in a mixing bowl.

Mix in oil and warm water, forms into soft dough.

Knead by hand for 5 minutes until smooth.

Transfer into oiled and covered bowl, let rise until double for about an hour.

Punch the dough down, roll out into 11 x 13 in rectangle, spread with melted butter, sprinkle brown sugar, thinly sliced banana and chocolate chip.

Starting with long edge, roll up dough, pinch seams to seal and place onto baking sheet.

Let rest for 45 minutes. Towards the end of raising time, preheat oven @ 180C.

Bake the bread for 25 minutes until golden brown. Brush with vegan butter.

Transfer onto rack to cool. Slice while still warm.

Linking to Yeastspotting

EGGLESS NUTELLA COOKIES

2012-01-27T13:07:00.001+08:00

Cookies are one of my family favorite tea time snacks. They are quick to make so does this Eggless Nutella Cookies. It is an easy recipe and does not require chilling. The tasty combination of cookies dough with delicious nutella make them a yummy snack any time of the day.

They are healthier and make you fully satisfied. I had used whole wheat flour and very low sugar but this is entirely up to you. The dough is so great to work with. If they are crumbly, add a tablespoon or two of milk. Roll the the dough by hand to get smooth ball then flatten slightly and top with almond flakes or other nuts you have on hand. They turned out amazing, crunchy outside but soft inside. Totally addictive!

EGGLESS NUTELLA COOKIES
Yield : 20-22 cookies

1/2 C whole wheat flour
1/2 C all purpose flour
1/4 C softened butter
6 Tablespoons nutella spread
1/4 C brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1-2 Tablespoons of milk if needed
almond flakes for decoration

METHOD

Combine both flour and baking powder in a mixing bowl

Cream butter, nutella and brown sugar until well incorporated.

Add butter mixture and vanilla to the flour, form into soft dough.

Preheat oven @ 160C, roll our dough into 1-in ball. Flatten lightly and dot with almond.

Bake for 20 minutes, Let sit in the pan for 5 minutes, Transfer onto rack to cool.

When completely cool, store in an airtight container.

This goes to 5th World Nutella Day

EGGLESS BRIOCHE

2012-01-24T12:48:00.002+08:00

This is a light and easy to make brioche recipe. The whole process is considerably shortened by eliminating the sponge, preliminary rising and chilling the dough. You can even use your bread maker to bake one.

Without much hassle, this dough turned just amazing as regular brioche but with less butter and without egg. If you don't have a brioche pan, the other alternative is to use your muffin cup, they came out perfect!

EGGLESS BRIOCHE
Yield : 9 brioche

2 C all purpose flour
3 TB castor sugar
100g softened butter
1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 C milk
1-2 TB milk if required
evaporated milk for topping

METHOD

Scald the milk and butter, mix in sugar and let cool until lukewarm.

Combine flour, yeast and salt in a mixing bowl.

Add in milk mixture to the flour and forms into soft dough. If it appears too dry add in milk by a tablespoon at a time.

Knead by hand for 10 minutes, transfer onto greased and covered bowl and let rise until double for 1-1 1/2 hours.

Punch the dough down, divide into 10 ball. Shape each into smooth round ball, only use 9 balls. Brush each ball with evaporated milk.

Place the balls onto baking sheet. Shape remaining one ball into small balls. Make a deep indentation on each bigger ball, place the smaller one on top. Let rest for 45 minutes. Towards the end of rising time preheat the oven @ 180C.

Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 1-27-12

DAIRY FREE OATMEAL BANANA SQUARES (EGGLESS)

2012-01-20T12:39:00.001+08:00

Here is a nutritious snack for those allergic to dairy products. It is also egg free made with rolled oat, mashed banana and vegetable oil..

It is a simple basic recipe but a real hit, if you like oatmeal banana squares. Once your family try them, they'll be asking for them on a constant demand. After all they deserve a wholesome and guilt free treat once a while. This also makes a perfect after school snack or lunch box sweet.

DAIRY FREE OATMEAL BANANA SQUARES (EGGLESS)
Yield : 7 in square loaf

1 C all purpose flour
1/2 C + 1 TB rolled oat
1 C mashed banana
1/4-1/2 C brown sugar
1/4 C canola oil
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
1 TB black sesame seed (optional)

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 175 C and grease 7 in square pan.

Combine flour, salt, baking powder, oat and brown sugar in a mixing bowl.

Add in oil, banana and vanilla to the dry ingredient, stir until well incorporated.

Pour the batter into prepared pan, sprinkle top with black sesame seed (optional). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool in pan 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

Slice into squares to serve.

MILK COFFEE BUNS

2012-01-17T13:19:00.003+08:00

This homemade milk coffee bun is a wonderful addition to any meal, they are simply awesome with a cup of coffee or tea. These buns are topped with evaporated milk and granulated sugar for the perfect crust. The instant coffee adds in some wonderful flavor and the smell is pretty enticing while baking.

Eaten warm from the oven, the inside is perfectly soft with its sugary crunch. This recipe was incredibly easy, packs quite a big taste and leaves you feeling satisfied. Serve these buns as an extra special breakfast or scrumptious afternoon snack.

MILK COFFEE BUNS
Yield : 10 buns

2 C all purpose flour
2 tsp instant yeast
3 TB butter
2 TB sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 C milk
2 tsp instant coffee
2 TB milk and sugar for topping

METHOD

In a saucepan, scald the milk. Add in instant coffee, butter and sugar. Cool until lukewarm.

Place the flour and instant yeast in a mixing bowl.

Gradually add the milk mixture and salt, forms into soft pliable dough.

Knead by hand for 10 minutes until smooth.

Transfer into greased and covered bowl. Let rise until double for 1-1.5 hours.

Punch dough down, divide into 10 balls. Shape into smooth ball and place onto baking sheet.

Brush tops with milk, sprinkle the sugar. Let sit for 45 minutes. Towards the end of raising time, preheat oven @ 180C.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 1-20-12

MINI SAMOSA

2012-01-13T09:48:00.000+08:00

Samosa is a deep fried pastry stuff with savory filling, normally triangular in shape. It is either filled with spiced vegetables like potato, onion, peas or non vegetarian version with ground beef or chicken.

This is a light snack sold in restaurants or by street vendors on pushcarts. They make an easy snack or great party finger foods serve during informal family meal or buffets.

Am bit skeptical when I first saw this recipe using raw cabbage as a filling for samosa. So anxious to know how the taste will be. This is my first trial making samosa with uncooked veggie.

Though it involves a lot of time to prepare especially shaping and frying, these are remarkably appetizing and gone in seconds immediately after I had fried them. Will be making them again since my son really loves this samosa.

MINI SAMOSA
Yield : 14 samosa
Adapted from Mrs Revathy Shanmugam

PASTRY

1 C all purpose flour
2 TB cooking oil
1/4 tsp salt
l/4 C + 2 TB water

METHOD

Place flour and salt in a mixing bowl.

Add in oil and water gradually to form into soft dough. Keep for 15 minutes.

FILLING

2 onion chopped
2 C cabbage chopped
1 tsp chili powder
2 green chili chopped
2 TB cilantro chopped
2 sprigs curry leaves torn into pieces
salt to taste
water to seal
vegetable oil for frying

METHOD

Combine cabbage, onion and salt in a bowl. Leave for 5 minutes.

Squeeze out water from the cabbage mixture, add in chili powder, green chili, cilantro, curry leaves and salt.
Mix well.

/div>

HOW TO SHAPE THE SAMOSA

Divide the dough into 7 balls.

Roll out each ball into 6 in thin circle, cut into half. Shape the semi circle dough into a cone, overlapping each other. Glue the seam together with a little water.

Fill up the cone with a tablespoon of filling.

Brush the edges with water, press together to seal. Complete the rest of the dough.

Heat about 1 1/2 in deep of oil using medium heat. When the oil is hot, slide the samosa and deep fry until golden brown, turning frequently. Do not crowd the pan.

Remove with slotted spoon and drain on kitchen towel.

Serve hot.

DATES BREAD (EGGLESS)

2012-01-10T15:29:00.004+08:00

Dates bread is the easiest loaf of yeast bread you will ever bake. This recipe produces a soft crust and moist center using the most basic ingredients that can be found in most kitchens.

Instead of raisin, I had used chopped dates and this is also an egg free recipe. The dough is easy to handle and it takes about an hour and half to rise. This bread is wonderful. It smells so good while baking. The texture is perfect and just a right size for my family. It is a favorite bread for many families because it can also be eaten as healthy snack

DATES BREAD (EGGLESS)
Yield : One loaf
Adapted from here

2 C all purpose flour
1+1/2 tsp instant yeast
1/2 C chopped pitted dates
2 TB butter
2 TB brown sugar
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 C hot milk

DIRECTION

Combine dates, butter, brown sugar, salt and hot milk in a bowl. Stir to dissolve the sugar. Let mixture cool to lukewarm.

Stir in flour and yeast, forms into soft dough.

Knead by hand for 10 minutes on floured board.

Transfer onto greased and covered bowl, let rise until doubled about 1 1/2-2 hours.

Punch dough down, shape into a loaf and slide into loaf pan. let sit for 45 minutes. Towards the end of raising time, preheat oven @ 190C.

Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 1-13-12

BANANA BROWNIES (EGGLESS)

2012-01-06T10:38:00.000+08:00

Another great way to use your ripened banana. These banana brownies are egg free and lower in fat than the traditional one. These are perfect dessert for picnics, potlucks or after school snack. But if you have chocolate lovers in the house, these brownies won't last that long.

The mashed banana does wonder to this easy dessert. Amount of sugar needed is much reduced by adding those banana and keep it so moist. It has both the perfect texture and ideal rich chocolaty flavor..

BANANA BROWNIES (EGGLESS)
Makes 9 x 9 in pan of brownies

1 1/4 C all purpose flour
3/4 C brown sugar
2 TB unsweetened cocoa
1 tsp baking powder
1 C mashed banana
1/2 C low fat milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 C canola oil
1/2 C chocolate chips
1 tsp salt

DIRECTION

Sift the flour, cocoa and baking powder in a mixing bowl.

Preheat oven @ 180C and grease 9 x 9 in square pan.

Combine milk, oil, salt and banana in a small bowl.

Now add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stir to combine.

Mix in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract, pour into prepared pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

Cut into squares to serve.

YEAST PIE CRUST

2012-01-03T13:58:00.002+08:00

Hi friends, wishing you much happiness and success in 2012!

This is a recipe I found on the internet and did a bit of tweaking. If you want to try an alternative pie crust, try this recipe using yeast. This looks and tastes just like normal pie but less buttery of course.

I had halved the recipe, turned the crust into mini pies using 3 in round cutter instead of one large pie. Feel free to use any filling of your choice but now had stuffed them with fruit preserves. Be careful not to overfill as the jam will spill out when hot and burn. These are so cute and great for serving your guests.

This pie crust is so easy to handle and bakes beautifully. I should make them again and vary the filling with blueberries, cherries or chocolate next.

YEAST PIE CRUST
Yield : 16 mini pies
Adapted from here

1+1/2 C all purpose flour
150ml warm milk
1+1/4 tsp instant yeast
3 TB melted butter/ oil
1/2 tsp salt
1 TB sugar

FILLING
Fruit preserves of your choice

METHOD

Combine milk, sugar, yeast and oil in a small bowl.

Place flour and salt in a mixing bowl.

Stir in milk mixture onto dry ingredients, mix well.

Knead by hand for 5 minutes on floured board.

Transfer dough into covered and oiled bowl. Let rise for 1-1 1/2 hours until doubled.

Punch dough down, roll out dough into 1/8 in thick. Cut into round using 3 in cookies cutter. Press dough into lightly buttered muffin pan. Fill up pie, 3/4 full with your favorite filling and let sit for 45 minutes. Towards the end of raising time, preheat oven @ 180C.

Bake for 25-35 minutes until edges are golden.

Allow to cool before serving.

Linking to Yeastspotting 1-6-12

LOW FAT BANANA CAKE (EGGLESS)

2011-12-30T14:09:00.000+08:00

Banana cake is so popular and needs no introduction. Each of you have a favorite recipe of this cake. I too had tried various recipe of this treat with added chocolate, oat or chopped nuts.

The recipe below is a low fat and very light. It uses only 2 tablespoons of oil and water to moisten the batter. The best part is you don't even need to take out your mixer or food processor to bake one. It is so easy for anyone to make. If your banana is already sweet, do adjust the sugar to your preference. For natural sweetness and strong banana flavor, use ripen banana. This recipe can easily be doubled.

This fantastic cake is sheer indulgent with very little saturated fat, you can enjoy without guilt. Most importantly so fluffy and delicious!

LOW FAT BANANA CAKE (EGGLESS)
Yield : One 7 in loaf

1 C self raising flour
1/4-1/2 C brown sugar
3 medium banana mashed
2 TB canola oil
1/4 C water/ non fat milk

DIRECTION

Preheat oven @ 180 C. Grease your 7 in cake pan.

Place flour and sugar in a mixing bowl.

Combine banana, oil and water in a bowl.

Stir in banana mixture onto the flour, combine well.

Pour the batter into prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool in pan 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

SOUR CREAM PIZZA

2011-12-27T14:18:00.002+08:00

One of my family favorite food is pizza. With endless topping to choose from, you never feel bored to have pizza even on daily basis.

Today I'm sharing with you an easy and fantastic pizza using sour cream, topped with onion and tomato. Though this is made without cheese, tomato sauce or meat, it turned out to be our top choice and regular on our dinner table.

The crust is a straight forward recipe and easy to make. It is so much easier if you use your bread maker. Make your own healthy pizza using fresh produce from your garden or market minimizing the oil and cheese used. Go ahead and create your own healthy pizza customized to your taste.

SOUR CREAM PIZZA
Yield : 1 large or 2 small pizza
Serves : 6

PIZZA DOUGH
2 C all purpose flour
7g instant yeast
1 tsp caster sugar
3/4 C warm water
1/2 tsp salt
2 TB olive oil

TOPPING

1/2 C sour cream
2 medium onion thinly sliced
2 medium tomato cubed
salt to taste
black pepper freshly ground
basil leaves

DIRECTION

Place flour, sugar, yeast, oil and salt in a mixing bowl.

Pour in warm water, combine to form a soft dough.

Knead by hand 5 minutes, transfer into oiled and covered bowl. Let rise until doubled for an hour.

Punch the dough down, shape into 30 cm round and place into prepared pan.

Spread with sour cream, sprinkle salt and pepper generously. Top with tomato, basil and onion. Preheat oven @ 190C.

Bake pizza for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden brown.

Remove from heat, slice up and serve.

Linking to Yeastspotting 12-30-11

BANANA BUTTER COOKIES (EGGLESS)

2011-12-23T14:07:00.001+08:00

If you have some over ripened bananas and you are going to throw them out, you don't need to do it. Why not turn those banana into yummy cookies.

The recipe below is so easy to prepare within a short span of time. It uses mashed banana, butter, flour and toasted sesame seeds for added crunch to the cookies. You can also add chopped walnut, almond or peanut if you want. The sugar is much reduced since the natural sugar in the banana makes it sweet enough.

These cookies turned out so moist and tender on the inside but slightly crisp on the outside. They are palatable to everyone with real taste of banana.

BANANA BUTTER COOKIES (EGGLESS)
Yield : 30 cookies

INGREDIENTS

1+ 1/2 self rising flour
1/4 C melted butter
1/4 C mashed banana
1/2 C brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 C toasted sesame seeds/chopped nuts

DIRECTION

Place melted butter in a bowl, stir in sugar, vanilla extract and banana.
Add in flour and sesame seeds, combine and forms into soft dough.
Roll into small balls and flatten slightly with a fork and place onto baking sheet. Preheat oven @ 160 C.
Bake for 20 minutes, allow cookies to cool on the tray for 5 minutes.
Transfer to wire rack to cool.
Store in an airtight container.

SAVORY BREAD PUDDING

2011-12-21T01:29:00.003+08:00

Savory bread pudding is a perfect comfort food. Not only it is versatile but it happens to be quite filling too.

Made with cubed sandwich bread or other type of crusty bread, soaked in milk to soften and adding fresh or cooked vegetables of your choice to the batter. Addition of green chili or black pepper gives this a distinctive taste to rather bland pudding.

This is a wonderful meal to share with your family and friend.

SAVORY BREAD PUDDING
Servings : 6

250g bread 1-in cubed with crust
2 C milk
2 TB cornflour
2 TB oil
2 medium onion thinly sliced
1 tomato chopped
1/2 C carrot grated
2 green chili chopped
2 TB chopped cilantro
salt and black pepper to taste

DIRECTION

Combine 2 tablespoons of milk with cornflour, keep aside.

Heat the oil, add the onion, fry until soft but not brown, remove from heat.

Place cubed bread into mixing bowl, pour in the remaining milk and let soak for 5 minutes.

Preheat oven @ 180C and grease a shallow 6 x 10 in baking dish.

Add in salt and cornflour to the bread, stir well.

Reserve some of the onion, tomato and cilantro for topping, add the rest together with carrot, black pepper and green chili. to the bread mixture. Combine well.

Pour the batter into prepared pan, bake for 30-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Linking to Yeastspotting 12-23-11

5 CUP FRUIT CAKE (EGGLESS)

2011-12-17T12:29:00.000+08:00

There are substantial collection of recipes out there for fruit cake. Some are heavily loaded with dried fruit,
butter and eggs. Even alcohol is being used for soaking the fruit overnight. If it is done in a traditional way, it takes time to bake this perennial favorite.

This is an express version without spending a long hours to bake one. Though the ingredients used are mixed dried fruit, self rising flour, milk, brown sugar and desiccated coconut, it turned out as good as the richer fruit cake.

If time is your constraint, consider baking this easy cake with great result.

5 CUPS FRUIT CAKE (EGGLESS)
Yield : One 8 in loaf
Adapted from GregsKitchen

1 C self rising flour
1 C milk
1 C dried fruit
1 C desiccated coconut
1/2 C brown sugar

DIRECTION
Preheat oven @ 175C and grease 8 in cake pan.

Place flour, sugar, coconut and dried fruit in a mixing bowl.

Pour in milk and stir to combine.

Pour batter into prepared pan, bake for 35-45 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool in the pan 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

CHOCOLATE LOAF

2011-12-14T07:58:00.005+08:00

If you're a fan of homemade chocolate bread, this recipe is for you to try. This is a delicious yeasted chocolate loaf, that is not too sweet and has a deep chocolate flavor.

A generous amount of good quality unsweetened cocoa powder and chocolate chips makes this loaf beautifully rich. The fantastic loaf does not need anything to taste delicious, just eat on its own. Not only that, this is a great recipe for beginner bread bakers, no complicated step to follow.

I had used chocolate rice (sprinkles) instead of chocolate chip and it turned out just beautiful. This recipe below makes a small loaf but it can easily doubled if needed. Also garnished it with silvered almonds for a nice touch.
.
CHOCOLATE LOAF
Yield : One loaf

2 1/4 C all purpose flour
4 TB melted vegan margarine
2 tsp instant yeast
1 C non diary warm milk
1/4 C brown sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 C chocolate chips, vegan
1 TB unsweetened cocoa
silvered almond for topping

DIRECTION

Place flour, cocoa, sugar and instant yeast in a mixing bowl. Stir to combine.

Pour in warm milk, salt and butter to the dry ingredients. Combine to form into soft dough. If too sticky add a tablespoon of flour to the dough.

Knead by hand for 10 minutes on floured board. Add in the chocolate chips, mix well.

Transfer into greased and covered bowl, let rise until doubled for 1 1/2-2 hours.

Lightly degas the dough, shape into ball or loaf and transfer into baking pan. Let sit for 45 minutes. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180C. Apply top with milk, sprinkle with silvered almond.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the silvered almond turns golden.

Let sit in the pan for 5 minutes before removing to wire rack. When completely cool. slice to serve..

Linking to Yeastspotting 12-16-11

PECAN BALLS

2011-12-11T10:49:00.001+08:00

These buttery melt in the the mouth cookies are so scrumptious and not too sweet. At times other nuts such as almond, walnut and the like are added to the dough.

It takes a bit of your time for rolling this treat. I had rolled them into tiny balls. They are often served during Christmas, wedding or festive celebrations.

If you have a time, dry roast or bake the pecan before grinding. This step is not neccesary but that really enhance the flavor of these balls.

PECAN BALLS
Yield : 30-40 balls

2 C all purpose flour
1 C softened butter
1/2 C fine sugar
1/2 C toasted pecan, ground
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
powdered sugar for coating

METHOD

Cream butter, sugar and vanilla.

Stir in flour and ground pecan, mix well to form into soft dough. Preheat oven @ 160 C.

Roll dough into 1 inch ball and place into ungreased baking sheet.

Bake for 20 minutes until set but not brown. Remove and cool on wire rack.

While still warm, roll the balls with powdered sugar until well coated.

When completely cool, store in an airtight container.

FRIED VEGETARIAN RICE

2011-12-08T13:18:00.000+08:00

Fried rice is an easy one pot meal by stir frying the main ingredient, cooked rice. It is so versatile that you can add almost any vegetables and meat or seafood to it, either vegetarian or non vegetarian style. It tastes great as a meal on its own. .

For best result, make sure the rice is cooked and cooled beforehand so the grain will separate when frying. This instantly create a delicious and satisfying meal with amazing flavor and texture.

FRIED VEGETARIAN RICE
Servings : 3-4

300g cooked rice
2 TB sesame oil
1 TB cooking oil
1 tsp chili powder (optional)
2 green chili sliced
1 medium onion sliced
2 cloves garlic minced
1/4 C water
1 TB light soy sauce
100g carrot cubed
100g french bean/capsicum
1/2 C frozen corn
black pepper to taste
salt to taste
2 stalks spring onion
2 stalks coriander leaves

METHOD

Heat the sesame and cooking oil, fry onion and garlic until fragrant.

Add in red and green chili, salt, pepper, soy sauce, water and salt, stir for a minute.

Now add the carrot and bean, cook until carrot turns soft but still crunchy.

Pour in the rice, stir until it heated through and add more salt if required.

Garnish with spring onion and coriander leaves. Serve hot.

STUFFED BUNS

2011-12-05T19:39:00.005+08:00

This is my son's favorite bread. He used to buy them from nearby bakery during his school days. They are so fluffy with spicy filling, the way he likes it.

As his request, I had baked his favorite buns using the recipe below. They're exceptionally fluffy and so tasty even after the next day. The secret is addition of butter and dry milk to the dough.

This recipe is a keeper, you can vary the filling according to your choice either sweet or savory and make these amazing rolls for your family.

For perfect buns, make sure the stuffing is almost dry and be careful to seal the dough properly so as to avoid leakage during baking.

STUFFED BUNS
Yield : 12 buns

2 1/2 C all purpose flour
1 TB sugar
1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
3 TB melted butter/oil
3/4 tsp salt
2 TB dry milk
1 C minus 2 TB warm water
melted butter for brushing

FILLING

3 medium potato cubed
1 carrot grated
2 TB chicken masala powder
1 tsp chili powder (optional)
2 cloves garlic chopped
1 medium onion chopped
1/2 tsp grated ginger
3 TB chopped coriander leaves
water
salt to taste

METHOD FOR FILLING

Heat the oil, fry onion, ginger and garlic until fragrant. Add in curry powder, chili powder and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook until the raw smell disappears.

Now add the potato, carrot, salt and water ( water level should be above the potato), bring to boil and simmer until potato turns soft, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Remove from heat, sprinkle with coriander leaves and leave to cool.

DIRECTION

Combine flour, sugar, instant yeast and dry milk in a mixing bowl.

Make a well in the center, pour in water and melted butter, stir to combine.

Add in salt, forms into soft dough.

On floured board, knead by hand 5 minutes and transfer onto greased and covered bowl.

Let rise until doubled for an hour.

Flatten the dough, divide into 12 balls. Roll out each ball into round, place a tablespoon of filling, seal the edges and shape into a smooth ball.

Place balls onto baking sheet and let sit for 30 minutes. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 190C.

Bake for 20 minutes or until golden grown. After removing from the oven, brush with melted butter.

Linking to Yeastspotting 12-09-11

SESAME & NUT TRUFFLES

2011-12-02T00:58:00.000+08:00

These truffles with chopped nuts and sesame seeds are amazingly simple to make involving very few ingredients from your pantry. This is perfect to satisfy your sweet craving almost instantly.

It is so delightful to bite into these truffles. You can vary what is going into making this quick dessert such as adding coconut, white chocolate, dark chocolate, coffee, raisin or candy bars. The variation are endless.

Here, my combination are toasted nuts and toasted sesame seeds, they are definitely a favorite for you and your family, so addicting and melt in your mouth. Serve these during the holidays or New Years for a special treat.

SESAME & NUT TRUFFLES

2 C crushed semi sweet biscuits
1 C condensed milk
1/2 C toasted chopped almond/peanut/walnut
1/2 C toasted black sesame seed
1 TB unsweetened cocoa
extra white sesame seed for rolling

DIRECTION

Place crushed biscuits, chopped nuts, sesame seed and cocoa in a mixing bowl. Combine well.

Now add the condensed milk, mix well to form into soft dough..

Roll into 1 in ball and coat with or without white sesame seeds.

Place in a refrigerator until ready to serve.

PAN FRIED HONEY SOY CHICKEN

2011-11-29T22:03:00.000+08:00

This is an easy and tasty way to prepare chicken minus the spices. Goes equally well with hot vegetables or a crisp salad. They are also best served as a finger food at parties or picnics.

It is important to use medium heat to ensure that they don't burn and for fuss free method, bake them at 180C for 45 minutes, basting once or twice during baking.

This is my family favorite - finger licking good!

PAN FRIED HONEY SOY CHICKEN
Serves 8

16 pieces chicken wings/thighs/breast
1/4 C chili sauce
2 TB honey
1 tsp coarse black pepper
2 cloves garlic chopped
1/3 C lemon juice
3 TB soy sauce
salt to taste
vegetable oil for frying

DIRECTION

Mix together honey, soy sauce, garlic, chili sauce, lemon juice and salt in a glass bowl..

Add in the chicken pieces, combine well.

Cover and refrigerate for an hour (overnight if possible)

Heat little oil in a non stick pan, put in the chicken pieces, pour over the marinade, cook both side until brown and the marinade absorbed by the chicken.

Serve hot.

HODDEOK (KOREAN SWEET PANCAKE)

2011-11-26T01:29:00.004+08:00

Hoddeok is a popular street food of South Korea. I came to know this after watching a television show about Korean food.

They are made with wheat flour, sugar, water, milk and dry yeast. Though the original recipe calls for sweet rice flour but this was omitted by me. Allow the dough to stand in a warm place for 3 hours. If using active dry yeast, whisk the water, sugar and dry yeast in a small bowl, let the yeast to activate for about 10 minutes before adding the rest the ingredients.

After fermentation, it is shape into ball then stuff with brown sugar and nut filling. Shallow fry these balls then flatten them using spatula until golden brown. They are best eaten hot.

HODDEOK (KOREAN SWEET PANCAKE)
Yield : 5
Adapted from here

1 + 1/4 C all purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 C + 1 TB warm milk
3 TB warm water
1/4 tsp instant yeast
1/4 tsp sugar
cooking oil for frying

FILLING
1/3 C brown sugar
2 TB chopped peanut/pecan/pine nuts
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

DIRECTION

Sift flour into mixing bowl.

Combine warm water, milk, sugar and yeast.

Pour the yeast mixture onto the flour, sprinkle the salt. Combine until it forms into soft dough.

Place the dough into greased and covered bowl. Let rise for 3 hours.

Divide dough into 5 balls. Mix together the filling ingredients in a small bowl.

Flatten each ball, place a tablespoonful of filling, seal the edges and shape into a ball again.

Heat little oil in a cast iron pan, place 2 balls on the hot pan, seams side down and fry then flip after the bottom is slightly browned, flatten the ball using the spatula. Cook until golden brown. Complete the rest of the dough.

Serve hot.

Linking to Yeastspotting -12-2-11

PENNE ARRABIATA

2011-11-23T14:58:00.000+08:00

When our guest from Sydney visited us last week, they have made a special request that they can't tolerate spicy food. In this case, I had chosen penne arabiata to grace our dining table.

They totally love this dish and even ask for the recipe. You can also add chicken or seafood if you prefer. The star ingredient of this dish is the tomato. It lands a tangy yet slightly sweet flavor to this pasta.

PENNE ARRABIATA
Serves 2-3

250g penne paste boiled until aldente
2 TB olive oil
1 can (400g) peeled tomato chopped
3 cloves garlic chopped
1 tsp black pepper (optional)
2 medium onion chopped
1/2 C tomato puree
1 tsp dried basil or fresh
salt to taste

DIRECTION

Heat the oil, saute the garlic until fragrant. Add in onions, cook until translucent.

Mix in peeled tomato together with the juice, tomato puree, black pepper to taste and salt. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, add half of the basil.

Meantime, boil the pasta according to the package about 10 minutes in salted boiling water, drain well.

Now add the pasta to the simmering sauce, stir for a few minutes, add the remaining basil leaves.

Remove and serve on a individual platter.

YEASTED CHOCOLATE BROWNIES (EGGLESS)

2011-11-20T12:17:00.002+08:00

I have made quite a few egg free brownies and these are some of the best. Surprising they were chocolaty and so moist despite using rapid rise yeast. This is the result of my latest project for chocolate yeasted brownies found on the net.

The original recipe did not turned out as expected. After adjustment made, we were amazed that this brownies happens to be one of our favorites. They are absolutely everyone that ate these loved them so much!

YEASTED CHOCOLATE BROWNIES (EGGLESS)
Yield : 24 brownies

2 C all purpose flour
1+3/4 C brown sugar
1/2 C unsweetened cocoa
1 C mashed banana
1+1/2 C warm milk
1/2 C melted butter
1/4 C canola oil
1/2 C chocolate chip
1/2 tsp salt
1+1/2 tsp instant yeast

DIRECTION

Grease 9 x 13 in baking pan, combine milk and yeast in a small bowl.

Sift together flour and cocoa powder in a mixing bowl. Add in sugar and salt..

In another bowl, whisk milk mixture, oil, and banana then stir into dry ingredients. Stir in chocolate chips.

Pour mixture into prepared pan and leave for 30 minutes. Just 10 minutes before baking, preheat the oven @ 175 C .

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Allow brownies to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a rack to cool completely.

If desired, slice into squares and sprinkle with icing sugar.

Linking to Yeastspotting -11-25-11

KADAI VEGETABLES

2011-11-17T13:18:00.000+08:00

Vegetables are a great source of nutrition in our diet. Not to mention, pulses and lentils are absolutely needed to compensate your protein if you are on vegetarian diet. This simple and delicious recipe of colorful vegetables cooked in spicy gravy makes a flavorful meal and easily made ahead. It is also low fat and on the table in less than half an hour.

Since I needed extra gravy, have added a bit more water than the usual quantity but this is entirely up to you.

KADAI VEGETABLES
Serves 4

1 medium carrot cubed
1 medium potato cube
2 C cauliflower cut into floret
2 tomato chopped
2 onion chopped
1 green chili sliced
1 TB ground coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
1 TB chili powder
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
5 garlic chopped
1/2 in ginger chopped
1 tsp garam masala
2 TB cooking oil
salt to taste
cilantro for garnish

DIRECTION

Heat the oil, fry the onion until translucent. Add in ginger and garlic, fry until fragrant.

Now add the tomato, cook until soft. Mix in chili powder, green chili, coriander, cumin, 1-2 tablespoons water and salt. fry until raw smell goes.

Add in carrot, potato and little water, cover the pot.

Once they are half cooked, add in the cauliflower, stir and cover the pot again.

When the vegetables turn soft, add in the garam masala and check for salt. Stir for 1 minute remove from heat.

Garnish with cilantro leaves at the time of serving.

BANANA SWIRL BREAD

2011-11-15T01:59:00.002+08:00

After successful attempt on Red Bean Swirl Bread, my son was begging me to bake again the same bread but this time I had a little twist to the classic swirl bread using condensed milk and banana. Really easy in your bread machine or you can bake it the conventional way.

This works well as breakfast meal or as dessert. Banana adds an elegant and tasty swirl to this gorgeous bread. My family just loves them!.

BANANA SWIRL BREAD
Yield : One loaf

2+1/4 C all purpose flour
1/2 C hot water
1/2 C condensed milk
2 T melted butter
2 T sugar
3/4 tsp salt
1+1/2 tsp instant yeast
2-3 TB flour if needed

FILLING
2 TB softened butter
2 TB sugar
2 tsp ground cinamon
1/2 C sliced banana

DIRECTION

Combine hot water and condensed milk. Add in melted butter.

Place flour, sugar, instant yeast into mixing bowl, stir to combine.

Now add the milk mixture to the dry ingredient, stir in salt. Forms into soft dough. Add extra flour if too sticky.

Knead by hand for 5 minutes on floured surface. Transfer onto greased and covered bowl. Let rise into doubled for an hour.

Lightly deflate dough, roll out into rectangle. Spread with butter, sprinkle sugar, banana and cinnamon.

Starting from the short side, roll up the dough jelly roll style. Put the dough onto loaf pan and let sit for another hour. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 190C.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter after removing from the oven.

Cool on rack. Slice to serve.

Linking to Yeastspotting 11-18-11

COFFEE & CHOCOLATE PUDDING (EGGLESS)

2011-11-12T01:48:00.000+08:00

I'd seen this in various blogs and really tempted to try. Have turned the recipe into eggless version by replacing an egg with yogurt.

Also baking it in a deep 1.5 liter oven proof pudding dish instead of ramekin. This pudding is a breeze to make and really yummy. It was dark and so moist, they never last long in my house. Never imagined that with this simple ingredients can become such a delicious treat!

COFFEE & CHOCOLATE PUDDING
Source : fairlady.com
Serves : 4

1 C flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cocoa powder
1/2 C brown sugar
2 TB melted butter
pinch of salt
1/4 C yogurt
1/2 C milk

TOPPING
1/2 C brown sugar
3 TB cocoa powder
1 C strong coffee

DIRECTION

Preheat oven @ 180 C.

Sift together dry ingredients.

Add butter, yogurt and milk to the dry ingredients, stir until combined.

Pour into greased 1.5 liter baking dish , sprinkle over cocoa and sugar. Pour over coffee, do not stir.

Bake for 45 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon and sugar, serve with ice cream if preferred.

RENDANG AYAM

2011-11-09T19:58:00.000+08:00

This chicken rendang is slow cooked in spicy coconut milk until the chicken is tender and almost dry.

It is popular during festive occasions or wedding in South East Asian countries. To avoid sticking to the bottom of the pan, stir constantly and make use of your non stick utensil if you have. Adjust the dry chili used according to your tolerance, normally this is quite spicy with a hint of sweetness.

Best eaten with rice cake (lontong), flavored rice or flat bread. In fact this chicken rendang compliments well with the pumpkin pulao.

CHICKEN RENDANG
Serves 4-5

1.2 kg - 1.6 kg whole chicken cut into 12 fat removed and cleaned
2 pieces turmeric leaf
2 pieces fragrant lime leaf
3 C coconut milk
salt and sugar to taste
3 TB cooking oil

GRIND INTO PASTE
20 shallot
3 cloves garlic
1 in ginger
1 in galangal
3 stalk lemongrass cut into small
25 dry chili (soak in hot water to soften)
2 TB roasted grated coconut

DIRECTION

Dry roast the grated coconut until light brown. Set aside to cool.

Heat oil in the non stick deep frying pan, add in spice paste and fry until fragrant.

Add in chicken pieces, stir until well coated with spices about 5 minutes.

Now add the coconut milk, turmeric leaf, and lime leaves. Bring to the boil and continue to cook uncovered till chicken is tender, then reduce the heat and cook till quite dry, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Add salt and sugar, remove from heat. Serve with rice cake, flat bread or flavored rice.

PUMPKIN PULAO

2011-11-07T19:50:00.000+08:00

You might have eaten pumpkin pie, pumpkin soup, pumpkin bread or pumpkin pancake but have you tried Pumpkin Pulao? It is an easy and irresistible recipe with pumpkin and basmati rice. This nourishing pulao has a lot of flavors and very satisfying meal. It goes very well with raita and meat dishes but far simpler and quicker to prepare..

This wonder vegetable is loaded with Vitamin A and anti-oxidant, good source of Vitamin C. K. E and lots of minerals including magnesium, potassium and iron.

PUMPKIN PULAO
Servings : 8

2 C basmati rice rinsed and soaked 30 minutes
2 C pumpkin grated
2 onion chopped
1 tsp chili powder
2 tsp ginger garlic paste
1/2 C chopped cilantro
2 green chili slit
1/2 C tomato chopped
2 TB ghee/oil
1 tsp garam masala
5 C water
salt to taste
cilantro for garnish

DIRECTION

Heat the ghee in a deep non stick pot, fry ginger garlic paste. green chili, tomato and onion until translucent.

Add in pumpkin, cilantro, chili powder, salt and garam masala, stir for 1 minute.

Now add the rice and water. When the water has evaporated, cover and simmer for 10 minutes using the lowest heat.

Remove from heat and fluff with fork. Garnish with cilantro at the time of serving.

Serve hot with raita and spicy gravy.

ULTIMATE OATMEAL COOKIES

2011-11-04T18:08:00.001+08:00

Looking for a healthier version of oatmeal cookies? This recipe for Oatmeal Cookies is just what you need. It is made with rolled oat and less sugar. I have added mixed peel and raisin which is easily replaced with dried cranberries, dried peaches or cherries. If you dough is sweeten by raisin, just add only a quarter cup of sugar but this is entirely up to you.

This cookies makes a great lunch box treat and is perfect for cooking with your kids.

ULTIMATE OATMEAL COOKIES
Yield : 40 cookies

1 C all purpose flour
1+1/2 C rolled oat
1/2 C vegan butter melted/oil
1/4 - 1/2 C brown sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 C mixed peel
1/2 C raisin
1/2 tsp baking powder
1-2 TB water

DIRECTION

Preheat oven @ 160 C.

Combine flour, baking powder and salt.

Whisk together butter and sugar.

Now add butter mixture to the flour, stir to combine.

Add in mixed peel and raisin, forms into soft dough, if too crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of water.

Pinch dough into small ball and flatten slightly. Place balls onto baking sheet.

Bake for 15-20 minutes (cookies will seem underdone but do not overbake). Remove from oven and let sit in the pan for 5 minutes.

Transfer onto rack to cool. When completely cool, store in an airtight container.

RED BEAN SWIRL BREAD

2011-11-02T15:48:00.004+08:00

My boy is a great fan of red bean, anything stuff with this, he happily devoured them. Oh gosh, he can easily eat a loaf of this red bean swirl bread at one sitting!

This recipe yields a decent loaf, it is stuffed with red bean (use store bought) but you are free to substitute the filling with savory or others according to your taste. Since it is such a hit at my home, I thought I would share this recipe so you could also enjoy this incredible bread as much as we did.

RED BEAN SWIRL BREAD
Yield : One loaf

2 C all purpose flour
1/2 C + 1 TB warm milk
1/4 C sugar
3/4 tsp salt
2 TB melted butter
1+1/2 tsp instant yeast

FILLING
1/2 C- 3/4 C red bean paste

DIRECTION

In a small bowl, whisk together milk, butter and instant yeast.

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.

Now add milk mixture to the flour and forms into soft dough.

On floured board, knead by hand for 10 minutes.

Transfer onto covered and oiled bowl, let rise until doubled for an hour.

Roll out dough into rectangle, spread the filling evenly.

Roll up the dough jelly roll style, transfer onto greased pan in a shape of Z. Let sit for another hour. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180 C.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter after removing from the oven.

Place on rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 11-11-11

CORN & POTATO PARATHA

2011-10-31T15:59:00.001+08:00

Paratha or unleavened flat bread is usually pan fried on griddle, stuffed with potato, leaf vegetables, cauliflower, lentil or paneer. It is so light yet filling. They can be served during breakfast, lunch or at dinner time with chutney, pickle, yogurt, meat or any vegetable curries.

For this recipe, had combined whole kernel corn with mashed potato. Green chili is added to improve the flavor of this nutritious paratha. They turned out so soft and best eaten hot immediately after you have cooked them.

CORN & POTATO PARATHA
Yield : 5 paratha

1 C whole wheat flour
3 green chili
1/2 C corn kernel
1 potato boiled & mashed
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp oil
less than 1/2 C milk

DIRECTION

Blend corn kernel and green chili.

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.

Add in mashed potato, blended corn kernel, green chili and oil.

Gradually pour in the milk, forms into soft dough.

Divide dough into 4-5 balls. Roll out into 5 in round.

Place each paratha on a heated flat pan, cook until brown spot appears then flip and cook the other side.
Drizzle with oil if preferred.

Complete the rest of the dough. Serve hot with spicy gravy of your choice.

PUMPKIN BANANA MUFFIN

2011-10-29T00:50:00.000+08:00

I did a little baking for our breakfast. Since I had pumpkin and banana in hand so the best thing to do is to incorporate them in this experiment.

This turned out incredibly moist and delicious. Really happy with the result, yet you can creatively think of other tweaks. Perhaps adding chopped nut or chocolate chip to the batter. They're a perfect way to start the day!

PUMPKIN BANANA MUFFIN
Yield : 12 muffins

1 C all purpose flour
1/2 C whole wheat flour
1/2 C pumpkin puree
1/2 C mashed banana
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
6 TB oil/melted butter
3/4 C buttermilk
1/2 - 3/4 C sugar
1/4 tsp salt

METHOD

Sift both flour, baking powder and baking soda in a mixing bowl. Preheat oven @ 175 C.

Combine buttermilk, oil, banana, pumpkin, sugar and salt,

Add banana mixture to the flour, stir until just moistened, add in cinnamon.

Pour onto muffin pan lined with paper cases 3/4 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Remove and transfer onto rack to cool.

APAM PISANG BAKAR (BUTTERLESS YEASTED BANANA CAKE)

2011-10-26T20:58:00.003+08:00

This is a common recipe from our household using fully ripe banana. It is normally steamed but my recipe below is baked. Have also added instant yeast to rise.

For sugar, either increase or decrease according to the sweetness of the banana you had used. After mixing all the ingredients together, pour onto greased pan and let rise until doubled. Make sure your pan is deep enough to accommodate the increase, mine rose to the rim of the pan or use muffin pan but filled only half full..

APAM PISANG BAKAR (BUTTERLESS YEASTED BANANA CAKE)
Yield : One loaf

1+1/4 C all purpose flour
1 C mashed banana
1/2 C castor sugar
3/4 C + 1 TB warm evaporated milk
1/2 tsp salt
1+1/2 tsp instant yeast

DIRECTION

Grease 8 in deep cake pan. Whisk together milk, yeast and sugar in a small bowl.

In a mixing bowl, put in flour, banana and salt. Stir well.

Now add the milk mixture to the flour, stir to combine.

Pour mixture into greased pan and let sit for 1 hour. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 170C.

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Let sit in the pan for 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 10-28-11

2C PULAO

2011-10-24T20:58:00.000+08:00

Instead of plain white rice, try adding colorful vegetables to them, not only it improves the flavor but colorful and healthy as well.

Corn is rich in fiber, contains Vitamin B1. B5, Vitamin C and helpful for detoxifying your colon while carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene.

If using basmati rice, soak it for 30 minutes then drain. Add in the rice after the water has reached boiling point. It is best eaten with spicy gravy of your choice..

2C PULAO
Serves 2

1 c uncooked rice washed and drained
1/2 C carrot cubed
1/2 C corn kernel
2 green chili slit
1 tsp ginger garlic paste
1 stick cinnamon
2 TB oil/ghee
1/2 tsp cumin seed
1/2 tsp mustard seed
1 onion chopped
a sprig of curry leaves
2 C water
salt to taste
fried onion for garnish

DIRECTION

Heat the oil in a deep pot, fry mustard seed, let it crackles. Add cumin seed, cloves, cinnamon and curry leaves, fry until fragrant.

Add in onion, ginger garlic and green chili, fry until onion turns soft.

Now add the carrot, salt and corn, fry for a minute. Pour in 2 cups of water and the drained rice.

Bring to boil and cook until water evaporates. Using the lowest heat, cover the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.

Fluff with a fork and place onto a serving plate. Garnish with fried onion if desired.

JEMPUT2 PISANG/ BANANA FRITTERS (BAKED)

2011-10-21T19:58:00.000+08:00

Undisputedly our traditional kuih serve for generation. It is served during breakfast or as teatime snack. There are many variations to prepare it some added sugar and coconut. But I prefer to omit those since banana is already sweet and opt for healthier version by baking them.

They tasted as good as you have fried them but the only missing is the golden color you get when deep frying.

JEMPUT2 PISANG / BANANA FRITTERS (BAKED)
Serves 2-3

1 C all purpose flour
6 very ripe banana mashed
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 175C and heavily greased your baking pan. If possible use non stick baking pan.

Mix by hand banana, baking powder and salt.

Add in flour and combine well.

Drop a tablespoon on the greased pan.

Bake for 15 minutes then flip the other side, bake another 15 minutes.

Your fritters are ready to serve with your cuppa.

JAM FILLED BUNS

2011-10-19T21:08:00.005+08:00

This recipe is taken from here but I have converted them into Jam Filled Bun since a certain ingredient is not available at my pantry.

It is semi rich dough, won't rise much and you can bake them using lightly greased silicone mold or muffin pan. The easiest way to fill the bun is by flattening the dough then place the jam in the middle, close the edges, shape back to a ball. I shaped the dough into a coil about 10 inches long. Choose one that you are comfortable with, either way they turned out fabulous though.

JAM FILLED BUNS
Yield : 9 buns

2 C all purpose flour
1/2 C evaporated milk
4 TB soft butter
3 TB sugar
3/4 tsp salt
2 tsp instant yeast
1/4 C fruit preserve/jam

DIRECTION

In a small bowl, combine milk, sugar and butter. Heat the mixture in a microwavable bowl until warm to touch.

Place flour and instant yeast in a mixing bowl, stir to combine.

Now add the milk mixture and salt, forms into soft dough.

Transfer onto floured work space and knead by hand for 6-8 minutes. If too sticky at a tablespoon of flour.

Place the dough into greased and covered bowl for 1-11/2 hour until puffy, may not double in bulk.

Divide dough into 9 balls. Flatten each ball and stuff with a teaspoon of jam, roll back into a round again. Or. make coil by rolling the ball between your hand about 10 in long. Coil dough strip with the folded side down onto baking sheet. Make a deep indentation in the middle and fill with jam.. Let sit for 1 1/2 hours. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180 C.

Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Linking to Yeastspotting 10-21-11

STRAWBERRY BREAD

2011-10-16T12:39:00.001+08:00

Easy bread to be enjoyed at any time of the day. Fresh strawberries are added to the batter This makes a nice treat with your coffee or a great addition to brunch..

The final product yielded an incredible results. The bread was studded with a little moist chunk of fruity goodness. All members of my family liked it.

STRAWBERRY BREAD
Yield : One loaf

1+1/2 C all purpose flour
3/4 C sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 C melted butter
1 C fresh strawberry chopped
3/4 C yogurt
1/4 tsp nutmeg

DIRECTION

Preheat oven @ 180C and grease 8 in baking pan.

Sift flour, baking powder and baking soda into a mixing bowl.

In a small bowl, combine butter, yogurt, sugar and nutmeg.

Pour the wet ingredients onto flour mixture, stir to mix.

Add in strawberries, mix well. Pour onto prepared pan.

Bake for 40 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool in the pan for 15 minutes and transfer onto rack to cool completely, 1 hour or longer.

Slice to serve.

This goes to 6th World Bread Day 2011

BAKED BEIGNETS

2011-10-12T17:08:00.002+08:00

Beignets are sweet baked treat that are part bread, part doughnut. It was introduced by French families in Louisiana during mid 1700 along with their chicory coffee.

Never baked beignets before but when I saw them on the net, decided to bake them myself. There are two types of beignets - fried or baked. Of course my choice goes to healthier version and easy method.

Combination of beignets and sweet coffee is so satisfying and filling too. Start baking yours to enjoy this lovely bake!

BAKED BEIGNETS
Yield : 20
Modified from KAF

2 C all purpose flour
1/2 C evaporated milk
1/4 C hot water
2 TB melted butter
1 TB sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp instant yeast
1/4 C confectioners' sugar

DIRECTION

Place all purpose flour,and instant yeast in a mixing bowl, stir to mix.

In a small bowl combine evaporated milk, hot water, butter and sugar.

Pour milk mixture to the flour, sprinkle salt and forms into soft dough. If it is sticky add 1-2 tablespoon flour.

Transfer to the floured board, knead by hand for 10 minutes or you can use your mixer to do the job.

Place the dough into greased and covered bowl, let rise for an hour.

Gently degas the dough, roll out into rectangle on floured work space. Cut into 1.5-2 in squares. Preheat oven @ 180C. Let sit for 45 minutes.

Place the squares onto baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

While still warm, toss with confectioners' sugar until well coated.

Linking to Yeastspotting 10-14-11

DAL GOSHT

2011-10-10T20:58:00.000+08:00

This is a wonderful recipe combining lentil and meat. Though it requires constant stirring to ensure that the gravy does not stick to the bottom of the pot, it is so satisfying and absolutely delicious.

Instead of toor dal, you can use kidney bean, bengal gram or a mixture of all the dal. Another option, add vegetables like cauliflower, potato, yam or turnip to this dish for a more healthier version.

DAL GOSHT
Serves 4-6
Adapted from Sanjeev Kapoor

1/2 C masoor dal (split red lentil)
750g mutton cut into bite size
1 big onion
2 green chili
2 tsp cumin powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1+1/2 tsp chili powder
1+1/2 in ginger chopped
6 cloves garlic chopped
1 tsp cumin seed
1/2 tsp garam masala
2 TB cooking oil
2 TB lemon juice
3 TB chopped cilantro
salt and sugar to taste

DIRECTION

Place dal, onion, green chili, cumin powder, turmeric, half of the ginger and mutton in a deep pot.

Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to boil. Cover and cook until meat and dal are tender, stirring in between.

Heat the oil, add cumin seed, when it begins to change color, add remaining ginger and garlic, saute until fragrant.

Add chili powder, stir then remove from heat.

Pour this mixture together with the oil into cooked dal and meat.

Add lemon juice, salt, sugar and garam masala. If more gravy is needed add more water. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

Serve hot, garnish with chopped cilantro.

SESAME AND ALMOND SLICE

2011-10-07T18:27:00.001+08:00

Breakfast slice is a great way to serve your kids on busy mornings. It barely take a few minutes to prepare. Not only that, you can customize to suit the taste of your family members, the ingredients include many things you probably have on hand.

Next time, when you need an easy and healthy breakfast on the go, give this a try. Definitely you will love them!

SESAME AND ALMOND SLICE
Yield : 24 small squares

1/2 C self raising flour
1/2 C breakfast cereal
120g melted butter
1/2 C brown sugar
1/2 C toasted black sesame
1/2 C toasted chopped almond
2-3 TB milk

DIRECTION

Preheat oven to 180C. Well greased a 12 x 8 in pan.

Combine flour, sugar. sesame and almond in a mixing bowl.

Add in melted butter, stir to combine.

Press the mixture into prepared pan.

Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Cool on pan 5 minutes. Cut into small squares while still warm.

CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD

2011-10-05T22:18:00.003+08:00

There are various recipes to bake Cinnamon Swirl Bread found on the net but settled with this one from Nestle and made changes to the filling used.

It turned out fabulous and my family love them so much. I have to confess that bread baking is now part of my regular routine and enjoy every minute of the whole process.

If your evaporated milk is chilled, do add hot water but if it isn't, just add warm water. The temperature of the liquid should be warm to touch if too hot, let it cool down a bit.

CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD
Yield : One loaf

2 + 1/2 C all purpose flour
1/2 C evaporated milk
1/2 C hot water
1/4 C sugar
3/4 tsp salt
2 TB butter
1 + 1/2 tsp instant yeast

FILLING

1/4 C sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp all purpose flour
1 tsp cocoa powder (optional)
1 TB melted butter

DIRECTION

Combine milk, hot water, sugar, butter and salt in a mixing bowl.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour with instant yeast.

Make a well in center, pour the wet ingredients and forms into soft dough.

Place dough onto floured board, knead by hand for 10 minutes until smooth.

Transfer into greased and covered bowl, leave to rise until doubled for an hour.

Gently deflate the dough, roll our into rectangle. Brush with butter, spread the filling evenly leaving 1 in border.
Tightly roll the dough jelly roll style.

Pinch the ends to seal. Pinch the long seam closed. Place into greased loaf pan, let sit for an hour. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180C.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter if desired after removing from the oven.

Cool on rack. Slice to serve.

Linking to Yeastspotting 10-07-11

PASTA WITH SPICY TOMATO SAUCE

2011-10-03T17:08:00.000+08:00

For a change, I love to cook this pasta cooked in spicy tomato sauce. It has slightly tangy and sweet flavor. Besides prawn, that I'd added you can opt for chicken pieces. Throw in some vegetables of your choice, this has became a complete meal by itself..

For chili paste, you can buy a tub from supermarket or make your own using 10-15 dried chili, soak in hot water for a few minutes then drain and blend. If you love spicy food, it is economical to grind a lot more for future use.

In case you are vegetarian, do omit the prawn/ chicken, replace them with tofu.

PASTA WITH SPICY TOMATO SAUCE
Serves 4-5

400g pasta of your choice, cooked according to packet instruction
250g chicken/prawn shelled and deveined
2 TB chili paste
4 cloves garlic chopped
2 medium onion chopped
4 cups chicken/vegetable stock
4 TB tomato puree
3 TB chili sauce
1 can button mushroom sliced
coriander leaves for garnish
3 TB olive oil
salt and sugar to taste

METHOD

Heat the oil in a deep pot, add in the onion, fry until translucent about 10 minutes..

Add the garlic, fry until fragrant.

Pour in the chili paste and fry until the oil floats on top. Add in tomato paste and salt.

Add in the chicken pieces if using, fry for 1 minutes, pour in the stock and bring to boil. If using prawn, add them after the broth is boiling.

Once the chicken is tender, add in chili sauce, mushroom, sugar and salt.

Simmer for 1-2 minutes, off the heat.

To serve, place the cooked pasta in a serving bowl, pour the sauce over the pasta, garnish with coriander leaves.

DATES YOGURT CAKE

2011-09-30T18:19:00.000+08:00

Another easy recipe to whip up a delicious cake. All done by hand, simply mix and bake. The only extra work is removing the stone from the dates and chopped them. Best to chop up the dates in larges chunk so it is visible on your cake.

It is so moist and delicious. I'.m having hard time to preserve the bake before it disappears. Will definitely bake them often.

DATES YOGURT CAKE
Yield : One loaf

1 and 1/2 C all purpose flour
100g butter
1/3 C brown sugar
1 C chopped dates
1 C yogurt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda

METHOD

Sift flour and baking soda into a mixing bowl.

Melt butter, sugar and dates over a low heat. Preheat oven @ 180C.

Pour dates mixture into dry ingredients, add yogurt. Stir until just combined.

Pour into greased cake pan and bake for 30-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool in pan for 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

VERMONT OATMEAL BROWN SUGAR BREAD

2011-09-28T14:09:00.003+08:00

One of my favorite ingredients in baking is oat. I had muffin, cake, rolls and bars made with oat. Did you notice that I'm obsessed with bread baking too. When checking a new recipe on the net, I just can't resist to visit KAF since most of their recipes showed up and really to my liking. They are fail proof and exceptionally good.

This recipe also adapted from their site but with slight adjustments. Have baked half of them using muffin pan instead of a loaf. Despite all the changes, they turned out fantastic and full nutty flavor of oat.

VERMONT OATMEAL BROWN SUGAR BREAD
Adapted from here

2 C all purpose flour
1/2 C whole wheat flour
1 C boiling water
1/2 C rolled oat
1/4 C brown sugar
1 TB white sugar
2 TB butter
1/2 TB salt
1/2 TB instant yeast

DIRECTION

In a mixing bowl, combine boiling water, oat, brown sugar, white sugar, butter and salt. Let cool to lukewarm.

Sprinkle yeast to the sugar mixture, stir well.

Add the flour and forms into soft dough.

Knead by hand 10 minutes until smooth and transfer onto greased and covered bowl. Let rise until doubled about 1 hour.

Shape into a loaf or rolls and slide into loaf pan. Let sit for an hour. Towards the end of rising time preheat oven @ 180C.

Bake until golden brown for 25-30 minutes. Cool on rack.

Linking to Yeastspotting 9-30-11

POTATO CUPS

2011-09-26T15:48:00.000+08:00

Potato cup makes tasty appetizers. Prepare them ahead and reheat them just before serving. You can also freeze them. Run a sharp knife around the edges to loosen them from the cups.

These are made of grated potato, onion, garlic, cilantro and cornflour. It is ready in no time since I have cooked them using microwave. For crusty cups you can bake them in muffin pan.

POTATO CUPS
Serves 2-3

3 larges potato grated
3/4 C water
3 garlic chopped
1 onion chopped
3 green chili chopped
1 tsp black pepper
salt to taste
3 TB corn flour
1/4 C chopped cilantro
oil to grease

METHOD

Place potato, salt, black pepper, garlic, onion and cilantro in a mixing bowl.

Add in corn flour, gradually add water to form into thick batter.

Grease small microwavable plastic cups, pour the batter 3/4 cup full.

Microwave on high for 4 minutes. Let sit in the cup for 10 minutes, remove and serve.

You can also cook bake them in a preheated oven in muffin cups.

FRUITY COOKIES

2011-09-23T17:39:00.003+08:00

Adding dried fruit in biscuits not only help to sweeten this snack but also add a chewy quality. You can add any dried fruit available like dried cranberries, apricot, fig or fruit mix to them. Along with dried fruit, chopped toasted nuts can be incorporated in the dough but this is optional.

These were very easy to make and so good. They disappear fast once you laid them on the table.

FRUITY COOKIES

125g soft butter
80g powdered sugar
1 and 1/4 C all purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 C dry fruit mix
1/4 C chopped nuts (optional)

METHOD

Cream butter, sugar and vanilla until well combined.

Place flour, baking powder and dry fruit in a mixing bowl. Stir well.

Now add butter mixture to the flour and forms into soft dough.

Roll into small balls and flatten slightly with a fork. Place them onto baking sheet. Preheat oven @ 160 C.

Bake for 20 minutes. Let sit in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring onto wire rack to cool.

When completely cool, store in an airtight container.

HONEY WHEAT BLACK BREAD

2011-09-21T22:29:00.010+08:00

Sightly sweet and has a subtle flavor of coffee. Combination of honey, coffee and cocoa make this bread a special treat with your cuppa.

The dough is quite sticky and you need to add extra flour to work with. It rose quite substantially after it has been baked. Give it a try friends! I think you will be amazed at how tasty and fluffy it turns out.

HONEY WHEAT BLACK BREAD
Adapted from here
Yield : 6 rolls

1 and 1/4 C all purpose flour
3/4 C whole wheat flour
1/2 C warm water
1/4 C honey
1/2 TB cocoa
1 tsp instant coffee
3/4 tsp salt
1 and 1/4 tsp instant yeast
2 TB melted butter

METHOD

Place flour, cocoa, yeast and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir to mix.

Add in honey, butter and warm water. Mix and forms into soft dough. If too sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons more flour.

Transfer onto floured board, knead by hand for 10 minutes.

Place dough in an oiled and covered bowl, let rise until doubled for about an hour.

Gently punch the dough, divide into 6 ball. Shape as desired and let rise for 60 minutes. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180C,

Bake for 20-25 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Enjoy!

Linking to Yeastspotting 9-23-11

SHAHI MURG (CHICKEN IN YOGURT)

2011-09-19T13:38:00.000+08:00

Naan is a favorite of my son and he prefers to eat them with chicken dish. Since I had a bowl of yogurt, so this is an appropriate gravy to cook with.

Perfect blend of spices, makes this dish scrumptious and creamy. Had used ready made korma powder if not you can use a mixture of ground coriander and ground cumin. We need more gravy to dip so added a little bit of water at the time of cooking but this is not necessary if you prefer thicker one.

This goes well with capathi, naan, paratha or even rice.

SHAHI MURG (CHICKEN IN YOGURT)
Servings : 4-6
Adapted from Hjh Suraya Bee

1 whole chicken, deskinned and cut into 8-10 pieces
1 TB garlic paste
1 TB ginger paste
1 TB course ground black pepper
1/2 C warm fresh milk
1/2 tsp saffron
500 ml yogurt
1/2 C coriander leaves, chopped
4 cardamoms
4 cloves
5 cm cinnamon
3 large onion chopped
1 TB korma curry spice
1 TB chili powder
2 pieces bay leaves
2 red chili coarsely sliced
2 green chili coarsely sliced
2 tomato quartered
1/4 C silvered almond, toasted
1/4 C raisin
salt to taste
4 TB ghee/ vegetable oil

METHOD

Marinade chicken with ginger garlic paste and black pepper for 20 minutes.

Infuse saffron in warm milk, put aside. Beat yogurt till smooth then combine chopped coriander leaves in it.

Heat the oil, saute cloves, cinnamon and cardamom till fragrant. Add in chopped onion, saute until light brown.

Add in korma spice, chili powder and bay leaves, saute until oil seeps.

Now add the chicken, stir to coat with spices evenly.

Add in yogurt mix, saffron infused milk, red/green chili and salt to taste.

Reduce flame, cover the pot and simmer for 20 minutes, stir every now and then.

When the chicken is tender, add the tomato, silvered almond and raisin, stir well.

Sprinkle chopped coriander leaves at the time of serving.

Best served hot with any type of rice or bread.

CHOCOLATE CEREAL BISCUITS

2011-09-16T19:08:00.001+08:00

Cereals are a great ingredient to add in cookies and dessert bars. They add an interesting taste and also a bit of fiber in your diet.

If you have a large box of uneaten cereal, I recommend you to bake a small batch of cookies to test whether this is acceptable to your kid. Later on you can double or triple the recipe if your kid favored them.

Here is my basic recipe using nestum but you can fiddle around with it to fit your own taste.

CHOCOLATE CEREAL COOKIES
Yield : 40 cookies

125g soft butter
1 and 1/2 C all purpose flour
3/4 C brown sugar
2 TB cocoa powder
1/2 C breakfast cereal (I use nestum)
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Almond slices for decoration

METHOD

Cream butter, sugar and vanilla until creamy.

Combine flour, nestum, cocoa and baking powder in a mixing bowl.

Now add the butter mixture to the flour and forms into soft dough.

Pinch the dough into small ball, flatten and dot with almond slice.

Preheat oven @ 160 C. Place the cookies onto baking sheet.

Bale for 20 minutes and let sit in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer onto rack to cool.

Store in an airtight container.

GOLDEN PULL APART BUTTER BUN

2011-09-14T18:10:00.002+08:00

Before baking

After baking

There is nothing more satisfying for me than making a successful batch of bread. Once you start to get the feel of making bread, you are addicted.

If you are new to bread-making, this is really good recipe to start with. It produces beautiful and fluffy bread though it takes more than 3 hours to bake them.

GOLDEN PULL APART BUTTER BUN
Adapted from King Arthur Flour

1 and 3/4 C all purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
1 and 1/2 TB dry milk
2 TB soft butter
1/4 C warm milk
1/3 C warm water
1 TB sugar
3/4 tsp salt
1-2 TB all purpose flour if needed

METHOD

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix and knead using hand, stand mixer of bread maker, to make a soft and smooth dough. If too sticky add 1-2 TB of flour.

Transfer onto floured board, knead for 10 minutes. Place onto greased and covered bowl, let rise until doubled for 1-1 and 1/2 hours.

Gently deflate the dough, divide into 8. Round each piece into smooth ball.

Place balls into greased 8 in round pan. Cover and let rise 60-90 minutes until puffy. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180 C.

Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and brush with melted butter.

Cool on rack.

Linking to Yeastspotting 9-16-11

RENDANG PADANG

2011-09-12T14:30:00.000+08:00

Rendang is a dish using chicken, beef, mutton or even seafood slow cooked with dried/fresh chili, onion, ginger, galangal, fragrant leaves in coconut milk until the the liquid is dried up and the meat is tender. It is part of essential meal for festive occasions in South East Asian countries.

There are many variations to cook this dish. For spicy food lovers, this recipe uses bird's eye chili (chili padi) which can be varied according to your taste. The slow cook process allows the meat to absorb all the spices and becomes soft. This also requires frequent stirring so it does not stick to the bottom of the pan..

RENDANG PADANG
Serves 8-10

1 kg beef/mutton cut into 2 in cubes
1 turmeric leaf finely sliced
3 lime leaves finely sliced
3 bruised lemongrass white part only
1 in galangal bruised
6 cups coconut milk
2 pieces dried tamarind skin
salt and brown sugar to taste
cooking oil

GROUND
10 red chili
15 bird's eye chili
15 shallots
5 garlic
2 in ginger

METHOD

Heat the oil in a non stick pot, fry blended ingredients until fragrant.

Add cleaned meat, bruised lemongrass and galangal, stir well until well coated with spices.

Add in the coconut milk, turmeric leaf and lime leaves. Reduce the heat, cover and cook until liquid is reduced. Stir constantly.

Now add the salt, tamarind skin and sugar. Cook until semi dry.

Serve with rice, compressed rice or bread.

CHECKERBOARD COOKIES

2011-09-09T17:48:00.002+08:00

I have decided to spend my afternoon making this checkerboard cookies. At first glance, I thought it will be complicated to prepare, the more different recipes found on the net driving me more confused especially all those measurements.

This requires a little bit of extra effort to make these fanciful cookies but it is worthwhile. Really enjoyed and pretty simple to bake them. The rectangle dough of plain and chocolate is cut into 2 then stack on top of each so you have 4 layers. Now slice each log about 1/2 in thick then stack them alternately to obtain checkerboard pattern.

It is mildly sweetened with half a cup sugar but you can add more if you want it sweeter. Another tip is to place the dough into clear storage bag, roll out into rectangle about 7 x 9.5 in for both plain and chocolate dough. After chilling, using a scissor, cut open from the center of the bag. This way we need not use any flour and avoid sticking to your board. Line your board with plastic when you did the stacking job.

CHECKERBOARD COOKIES
Yield : 35 cookies

2 C all purpose flour
1 TB corn flour
170g softened butter
1/2 - 3/4 C fine sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 TB cocoa powder
1-2 TB ice water if needed

METHOD

Cream butter and sugar until well blended. Add vanilla.

Gradually add both flour and forms into soft dough.

Divide dough into 2. Add cocoa powder to one portion. If too dry, add a tablespoon of ice water. Mix until cocoa and flour are well mixed.

Insert plain dough into clear plastic, roll out into rectangle. Chill for 20 minutes.

Repeat the same procedure for chocolate dough. Chill for 20 minutes.

Cut each rectangle into 2., now stack each dough on top of each color. Chill 20 minutes.

Slice the block about 1/4 in thick. Now stack 3 slices on top of each to get checkerboard pattern. Chill 20 minutes. Cut into 3/8 in thick. Preheat oven @ 160 C.

Place onto baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.

Cool on rack to cool.

ONION BIALYS

2011-09-07T14:50:00.003+08:00

This is totally unknown to me until I saw them on the net. Originated from Poland, this bialys uses less ingredients compared with other rolls and no added fat. It is similar to bagel but without the hole and not boiled.

They are soft and had chewy crust. Though my onion turned extra brown but they remained delicious and sweet, came from the fried onion. At the time of baking, nice aroma filled the entire kitchen.. It is best eaten right after it has been baked.

ONION BIALYS
Adapted and modified from The Bread Bible
Yield : 6 bialys

2 C high gluten bread flour
1/2 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp salt
3/4 C plus 2 TB warm water

ONION FILLING
2 and 1/4 tsp oil
6 TB chopped onion
1/4 tsp salt
black pepper to taste

METHOD

Mix together flour, instant yeast and salt. Gradually add the water and forms into a dough.

Knead the dough by hand for 10 minutes and place it onto greased and covered bowl.

Let rise for 1 1/2-2 hours until doubled. Punch the dough down, let sit for another 45 minutes.

Prepare the filling by heating the oil, saute the onion until translucent. Remove, add salt and black pepper. Cool.

Punch the dough down, divide into 6 balls. Shape each ball into 2 1/2 in-4 in round and make a deep indentation in the center leaving 1 in rim. Spoon the filling in the center..

Let sit for 15 minutes. Preheat oven @ 180 C.

Bake the bialys for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Cool on rack.

Serve warm.

Linking to Yeastspotting 9-9-11

DAISY COOKIES / BISKUT DAHLIA

2011-09-05T13:09:00.003+08:00

One of popular cookies served during festive occasions. Made with regular ingredients available from your pantry.

It requires a bit of time, since you have to press the cookies one by one but it's worth your effort. Turned out tasty and handsome too. One thing I love about this cookies is that you need not use any frosting /icing since they're pretty once you had pressed them out of the mold. Pearl sugar, dragees and sprinkles can be placed on top of this cookies to dress it up a bit and give it more festive appearance.

DAISY COOKIES / BISKUT DAHLIA
Yield : 50 cookies

180g corn flour
50g all purpose flour
110g condensed milk
125g softened butter
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
glace cherries for decoration

METHOD

Combine all purpose flour and corn flour in a mixing bowl.

Using a whisk, beat butter, vanilla and condensed milk until just combined. Don't overbeat.

Now mix milk mixture with the flour and forms into soft dough. If it is still very soft, add 1-2 tablespoons of cornflour. You must be able to shape the dough into a ball.

Using daisy mold, press the dough onto baking sheet. Complete the rest of the dough. Preheat oven @ 160 C. Dot each cookies with cherries.

Bake for 15 -20 minutes. Transfer gently and let cool.

When completely cool, store in an airtight container.

Linking to These Chicks Cooked Link Party

PORTUGUESE SWEET BREAD ROLLS

2011-09-01T22:40:00.004+08:00

There are so many version of Portuguese Sweet Bread found on the net. Some used a starter but now I had baked them using straight forward method from King Arthur Flour. Originally a bread machine recipe but made slight changes to suit my taste.

This dough is easy to work with and not so wet. You can easily shape them into a loaf or as a roll. They turned so fluffy and smell so good while baking. Even my son can't resist to taste them. Incredibly delicious!

PORTUGUESE SWEET BREAD ROLLS
Yield : 7 rolls

2 and 1/2 C all purpose flour
1 and 1/2 tsp instant yeast
2/3 C evaporated milk plus 2 TB
2 TB softened butter
1/4 C sugar
3/4 tsp salt

METHOD

Warm milk and butter in microwave for 1 minute. Let cool until lukewarm.

Place flour, sugar, yeast and salt in a mixing bowl.

Make a well in the center, pour the milk mixture.

Using your mixer or by hand, combine flour and forms into soft dough.

On floured board, knead the dough by hand for 10 minutes.

Transfer onto greased and covered bowl, let rise until doubled for 2 hours.

Punch dough down, shape into loaf or rolls and place into greased pan. Let sit for 1 hour. Towards the end of rising time preheat oven to 175 C. Brush tops with melted butter.

Bake for 30-35 minutes for loaf and 20-25 minutes for rolls or until golden brown.

Remove and place on rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 9-2-11

OATMEAL ALMOND COOKIES

2011-08-29T14:09:00.000+08:00

Oatmeal cookies is always a favorite with both kids and adults. This cookies is so easy to make and a delicious treat for everyone. In fact you can add chopped nuts, chocolate chip, sesame seed or cranberries to the basic recipe and it always turned out great.

For this recipe, chopped almond and raisin are added along with rolled oat. These have a wonderfully chewy and flavorful cookies you enjoy biting into them.

OATMEAL ALMOND COOKIES
Yield : 40 cookies

1/3 C fine sugar
1/3 C brown sugar
1/2 C softened butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 C all purpose flour
1 C rolled oat
1/4 tsp salt
2/3 C raisin
1/4 C toasted chopped almond/nuts
1-2 TB milk if needed

METHOD

Beat butter, fine sugar, brown sugar and vanilla until well blended using mixer or by hand..

Mix in flour and oat, beat well.

Hand stir in raisin and walnut, Preheat oven @ 160 C.

Shape into 1 in ball, flatten slightly and place onto baking sheet. If still crumbly add 1-2 tablespoons of milk.

Bake for 20 minutes, let sit in the pan for 5 minutes.

Cool on rack, when completely cool, store in an airtight container.

SEMOLINA COOKIES / BISKUT SUJI

2011-08-26T16:29:00.001+08:00

Since Eid is just around the corner, most of my neighbors have started baking for this special occasion. It is so intoxicating with pleasant aroma of baked goodies came from their oven.

One of my favorite cookies or biscuit is Semolina Cookies. These cookies can be done with or without semolina, both are additive and delightful. In fact I had shared this suji cookies earlier which is done without semolina. Both have the same shape, soft and buttery but this one is a bit sandy since semolina is added to the dough.

The dough is so easy to work with and mixing is done manually. These are not so sweet yet delicious. Prefer to make my cookies in small batches but you can double or triple the recipe according to your need. Semolina Cookies is really easy to prepare so there is no excuse for not making them.

SEMOLINA COOKIES / BISKUT SUJI
Yield : 50 cookies

200g butter melted
200g self raising flour
200g semolina
100g fine sugar
Glace cherries for decoration

METHOD

Combine butter and sugar, beat well.

Now add the flour and semolina to the butter mixture.

Forms into soft dough, shape into small balls and place an inch apart on baking sheet. Preheat oven @ 160C.

Bake for 15-20 minutes and transfer onto rack to cool.

When completely cool, store in an airtight container.

YEAST BANANA BREAD

2011-08-23T16:29:00.002+08:00

This banana bread is totally different from your regular quick bread since it contains yeast and takes a little bit longer time to prepare. It is worth to wait, this yeasted bread produces a more flavorful and beautiful bake.

It is so moist but importantly contains no egg, milk or nuts so is great for kids with allergies. Instead of adding chopped nuts to the dough, I have scattered silvered almonds on the base of the cake pan.

YEAST BANANA BREAD
Yield : One loaf

2 C all purpose flour
3 medium mashed banana
3/4 C brown sugar
1/2 C vegetable oil
1/2 C soy milk warm to touch
1 heaped tsp rapid rise yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 C chopped nut (optional)

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 175 C. Grease loaf or round cake pan.

Place flour, yeast and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir to mix.

Combine banana, soy milk, salt and oil,

Add banana mixture to dry ingredients. Stir until well blended.

Pour into prepared pan, cover and leave to rise 45 minutes or until doubled.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Let sit in the pan for 10 minutes then transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 8-26-11

REAL COCOA DRINK

2011-08-21T00:37:00.000+08:00

A refreshing but nourishing drink. Cocoa has nearly twice the anti-oxidants of red wine and up to 3 times those found in green tea. Cocoa has about 1/3 of a gram of fat per one cup serving compared with 8g of fat in 40g chocolate bar.

So it is time to enjoy this healthy drink from your own pantry and skip those pre-packed mixes from your supermarket . They're laden with too much sugar and other additives your body does not need. You can also use low fat milk for this recipe.

REAL COCOA DRINK
Serves : 4-6
Adapted from Chocolate Chocolate
by Mary Norwak

4 TB cocoa powder
3 TB sugar
150 ml boiling water
900 ml milk
pinch of salt

METHOD

Mix cocoa, sugar and salt in a saucepan. Add water and mix to a paste. Simmer for 3 minutes.

Add milk and heat slowly to just below boiling point. Whisk well and pour into hot mugs/glasses.

Serve hot or cold.

SYRIAN BREAD

2011-08-18T00:29:00.002+08:00

This Syrian bread is almost similar to pita bread, the only difference is that this is without pocket. Practically the preparation is the same as other yeast bread.

The dough is so easy to work with and these turned out amazingly fluffy and very tasty. In fact, I have pan fried half of the dough and it has puffed up beautifully but have been eaten before the photo shoot. They gone in no time !

SYRIAN BREAD
Servings : 8

3 C all purpose flour
1 and 1/8 C warm water
2 TB vegetable oil
1/2 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 and 1/2 tsp rapid rise yeast
melted butter

METHOD

Place flour, sugar, salt and yeast in a mixing bowl. Stir with wooden spoon.

Add in oil and gradually add the water until it forms into a dough.

Knead dough by hand for 10 minutes and transfer onto greased and covered bowl. Let sit for 1 hour.

Pinch dough down, divide into 8 balls. Roll out each ball into circle about 6 in diameter. Preheat oven @ 200 C.

Brush tops with melted butter and bake 2 at a time for 8 minutes then flip, apply melted butter and cook for another 5 minutes.

Transfer onto rack to cool. Serve warm.

Source : Allrecipes

Linking to Yeastspotting 8-19-11

PEACH GALETTE

2011-08-15T13:58:00.000+08:00

A traditional French galette is a flat, round and free- form pie or tart with a crisp crust It has either sweet or savory filling..The best part of galette is that the dough is folded around the edges exposing the filling in the center.

This rustic crust is so easy to put together and I had used canned peaches for this recipe. Make sure you drain the peaches well before adding other ingredients. It is best served warm right after it has been out of the oven, simply irresistible!

PEACH GALETTE
Servings : 6

CRUST

1 and 1/2 C all purpose flour

2 TB sugar

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 C butter cut into small pieces

3-4 TB ice water

Extra butter for glazing

FILLING

3-4 peaches cut into eights

1 TB lemon juice

1 TB corn flour

2 TB brown sugar

1/4 tsp salt

METHOD FOR FILLING

Toss all the ingredients and let macerate for 10 minutes.

METHOD FOR CRUST

Combine sugar, salt and flour in a mixing bowl.

Add butter, process until it resembles course meal either using food processor or by hand.

Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time until a soft dough is formed. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap, chill 30 mins -1 hour.

TO ASSEMBLE

Preheat oven @ 190 C. Take the dough out of the fridge, roll out dough into 12 in round about 1/8 in thick, transfer onto baking sheet..

Place the filling in center, leaving about 2 in border. Fold edges of dough toward center, pressing gently to seal.

Brush the edges with butter, bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Transfer onto rack to cool. Cut into wedges to serve.

YEAST COFFEE CAKE

2011-08-11T14:48:00.002+08:00

Coffee cake is a sweet cake leavened either using baking powder or leavened by yeast, normally topped with nut, raisin, fruit and glazed with sugar or frosting, traditionally served for breakfast and brunch with coffee.

Coffee cakes are so versatile and may be baked in any type/size of pan but most popular are bundt, tube, fluted or loaf pan. They can also be baked in braid, ring, twist or whatever shape you like.

Originally this a bread machine recipe but now I have prepared them manually. They are easily browned so watch out during the end of baking time.

YEAST COFFEE CAKE
Adapted from here

2 and 1/4 C bread flour/all purpose flour
1/4 C sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp rapid rise yeast
1 C milk
1 TB butter
1 egg yolk (optional)

TOPPING
2 TB melted butter
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 C sugar
1/2 C chopped almond/pecan/walnut

METHOD

Warm the milk and butter until just warm to touch.

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast sugar and salt.

Add milk mixture to the flour, forms into a dough.

Transfer onto floured board, knead by hand for 5-8 minutes. Transfer onto oiled and covered bowl, let rise for 1-1 1/2 hours.

In a small bowl combine sugar, cinnamon and almond, keep aside.

Pat dough into round greased pan or shape as desired and let sit for 1 hour. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven at 175 C.

Brush melted butter over top, sprinkle with the topping.

Bake for 20-25 minutes on until golden brown.

Transfer on rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 8-12-11

HOT & SOUR SOUP

2011-08-08T18:28:00.001+08:00

Hot and sour soup is a light and filling dish, you can use any meaty fish such as threadfin, sea bream or mackerel if you intend to add the fish in your soup. It has tangy and spicy flavor which can be adjusted to your liking.

Since the fish doesn't need longer time to cook, quickly remove from heat once the fish is cooked. This soup is a warming, satisfying and flavorful meal that goes well with rice.

HOT & SOUR SOUP
Serves 3-4

200g fish fillet
1/4 tsp turmeric powder

TO BE BLENDED
2 cloves garlic
1 big onion
1/2 in piece of ginger
5 fresh red chili or to taste

salt and sugar to taste
2 TB cooking oil
3-4 cups water
2 tomatoes cut
2 TB lemon juice

METHOD

Clean the fish, drain then rub with salt and turmeric, keep aside.

Heat the oil, fry the blended ingredients till fragrant.

Add water, salt and sugar, bring to boil.

Now add the fish, tomato, bring to boil again.

Remove from heat, add lemon juice and more salt (if needed).

Serve hot.

SWEET POTATO JELLY

2011-08-05T22:29:00.003+08:00

This is a quick and easy dessert that are good to look at and fun to eat too.

Actually you can add all sorts of things with jelly, it is the ultimate flexible dessert. For this jelly, it comprises of 2 layers, one is using agar powder while the another layer makes of mashed sweet potato and agar powder.

Make sure the bottom layer is almost set before pouring the top one. You can use either individual jelly mould or pour into a large serving dish. This is so refreshing and yummy!

SWEET POTATO JELLY

BOTTOM LAYER
1 heaped tsp agar agar powder
300 ml water
1/2 C sugar
1/2 tsp pandan essence (optional)
green food coloring

TOP LAYER
230 ml coconut milk
100g mashed sweet potato
1/4 C sugar
1 tsp agar powder
yellow food coloring

METHOD

Rinse the large serving dish or individual jelly mould. .

Place ingredients for bottom layer in a deep pot, constantly stirring until it reaches boiling point. Pour into rinsed mould.

Simultaneously, boil the ingredients for top layer in a separate pot using medium heat, stir in between..

When the bottom layer is nearly set, pour the top layer on top. Let the jelly cool to a room temperature.

Chill before serving.

VEGGIE PIZZA

2011-08-03T17:18:00.002+08:00

While most of us love chicken or seafood pizza either home baked or take away. I simply adore vegetables pizza. They are endless choice of vegetables to choose from but this time used what are available in my fridge.

Instead of regular tomato based sauce, sour cream takes the turn to be the sauce. You can also turn them into mini pizza and used different topping on each according to your preference. This pizza is quick, easy and tasty!

VEGGIE PIZZA
Servings : 2-3

2 C all purpose flour
1 and 1/2 tsp rapid rise yeast
2 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 TB oil
3/4 C warm water (more if needed)
1/2 C sour cream
ground pepper to taste

TOPPING
1 onion sliced
2 tomato sliced
fresh basil leaves
1 medium capsicum cut into thick strips

METHOD

Place the flour, salt, yeast, sugar in a mixing bowl.

Gradually add the water and oil to form into a dough.

Knead by hand for 5 minutes, transfer into covered and greased bowl, leave to rise for 1-2 hours.

Punch the dough down, roll out dough into 12 in. round, transfer onto baking pan. Preheat oven @ 190 C.

Spread with sour cream and sprinkle with black pepper.

Arrange the onion, capsicum,basil and tomato slices on top of sour cream.

Bake for 20 minutes or until the border has nice golden color.

Linking to Yeastspotting 8-5-11

CHOCOLATE SEMOLINA PUDDING

2011-08-01T16:29:00.000+08:00

This is the easiest dessert you can make, though it involves a constant stirring on stove top, to satisfy your sweet craving. Made of semolina, unsweetened cocoa powder, low fat milk and condensed milk. Adding the condensed milk is optional but it does improve the flavor of this pudding.

Dry roast the semolina to remove its raw taste and any lump until it turns slightly darker color. This pudding is so much healthier since the sugar is kept to a minimum. This creates a deliciously smooth , slightly sweet and satisfying dessert!

CHOCOLATE SEMOLINA PUDDING
Yield : 3 individual cups

2 C law fat milk
5 TB semolina
1 and 1/2 TB cocoa powder
2 TB sugar or to taste
2 TB condensed milk (optional)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 TB toasted almond/cashew

METHOD

Dry roast semolina in a deep pot until the it changes to tan color and aromatic. Pour in milk and cocoa, stir and bring to boil.

Now add the sugar, stir and simmer with constant stirring over low heat until it thickens and large bubbles begin to rise up. Add in vanilla and remove from heat.

Pour into individual cups, let cool at room temperature.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

PEACH CAKE

2011-07-29T16:29:00.000+08:00

It is hard to beat the delectable flavor of a juicy, ripe peach. But now I'd used the canned ones for making this simple cake.

It is best always rely on the gentle and natural sweetness of fresh fruit for the best peach cake recipe results. My cake turned out really well despite its simplicity and without any topping. Draining the peaches from the syrup is important. Properly packed and wrapped, it is ideal for picnic or barbecue since it is sturdy enough to be transported well. It will keep for a couple of days.

PEACH CAKE
Yield : One loaf

2 C self raising flour
1/2 c sugar
3/4 C milk
5 TB oil/melted butter
1/4 C yogurt
1 C chopped canned peach
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 180 C and grease a loaf pan.

Combine flour and sugar in a mixing bowl.

In other bowl, mix together butter, milk, yogurt and vanilla extract.

Now add wet ingredients to the flour mixture, mix in chopped peaches, stir until just combined.

Pour into prepared pan and bake for 40-50 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool on pan 10 minutes, transfer into rack to cool.

CHOCOLATE SWEET BUNS

2011-07-27T15:48:00.002+08:00

If you love chocolate, try this sweet buns stuffed with chocolate chips.Light, delicious plus versatility - with just one recipe you can make dinner rolls ( in a variety of shapes) or sweet rolls It's hard to resist eating more than one.

The sweet buns can also be filled with a variety of frozen fruit. Try blueberries, raspberries, strawberries or chopped sweet cherries.

CHOCOLATE SWEET BUNS
Yield : 8 buns

2 C all purpose flour
1 and 3/4 tsp rapid rise yeast
3/4 C warm milk
2 TB oil/melted butter
3/4 tsp salt
1 TB sugar
8 TB chocolate chip
Melted butter for glaze

METHOD

Place the flour, yeast and sugar in a mixing bowl.

Combine milk, oil and salt in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into dry ingredients. Mix to form into a dough. You can also use your stand mixer to mix.

Transfer the dough onto floured board, knead by hand for 10 minutes.

Let rise until doubled in a greased and covered bowl for 1- 1 1/2 hours.

Punch the dough down, divide into 8 balls. Flatten each ball and stuff with chocolate chip. Shape back into a ball, roll gently to seal. Place onto baking sheet. Repeat with the rest of the dough. Let rise for 45 minutes.

Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180 C, brush tops with melted butter.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Cool on rack.

Linking to Yeastspotting 7-29-11

HOW TO COOK RICE IN A MICROWAVE

2011-07-25T15:53:00.000+08:00

Sometimes you need to cook rice only for yourselves and the best way to do it is in the microwave. It is simple, time saving and comes out perfect every time. This way the rice is microwaved to perfection, fluffy and no constant checking to see if the rice is done.

Best to use deep microwave safe dish since the rice will expand and to avoid any over flowing when cooking.

HOW TO COOK RICE IN A MICROWAVE
Servings : 1-2

1 C uncooked long grain rice
2 C water

METHOD

Rinse the rice under cold running water until water runs clear, drain.

Place the cleaned rice in a deep microwavable dish, add required amount of water.

Place the pot in the center of the microwave oven, cook on high for 10 minutes uncovered (800W). Reduce power to medium, cook for another 10 minutes.

Let stand another 5 minutes in the oven.

Remove and fluff the rice with fork. Your perfect rice is ready to be eaten!

QUICK APPLE JAM

2011-07-22T23:23:00.001+08:00

Forget store bought jam and make you own healthy and delightful jam tailored to your taste. This is made using microwave but you can also cook them on stove top with constant stirring.

The fruity jam is wonderful when served warm on top of pancake and waffles or spread on toast. It's a foolproof recipe, literally ready in minutes!

QUICK APPLE JAM

2 medium apples grated
5 TB brown sugar/white sugar or to taste
1 TB lemon juice

METHOD

Peel, core and grate the apples. Place apple and brown sugar in a microwavable bowl.

Microwave on High for 5 minutes.

Stir and microwave again on high for another 5 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice.

Remove and cool. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container.

BAKED VEGETABLE FRITTERS

2011-07-20T23:19:00.002+08:00

This is a fabulous snack from bread. If you've ever had fritters, you know that they have a satisfying texture that are both crunchy and soft. Feel free to omit chili powder if you prefer a milder version. You can add any veggie you like such as carrot. corn, french bean, cauliflower, cabbage and many more to the batter. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.

Fried fritters are always a favorite but this recipe may just surprise you, how tasty and healthier they turned out. They make a great appetizer or on the go snack and so easy to whip up.

BAKED VEGETABLE FRITTERS
Serves 2-3

5 slices sandwich bread
1 medium onion chopped
2 green chili chopped
1 tsp cumin seed
1 tsp ginger minced
3 TB fresh coriander leaves
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/8 tsp turmeric
3/4 C chopped vegetables
salt to taste
3/4 C water
more water if needed

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 190 C and lightly grease a baking sheet.

Place the bread in a mixing bowl. Add water and crumble the bread.

Now add the onion, green chili, coriander leaves, chili powder, turmeric, ginger, chopped vegetables, salt and cumin seed, stir well.

Drop mixture by a tablespoon onto baking sheet.

Bake for 10 minutes then flip to cook the other side for another 10 minutes until golden brown.

Serve hot.

Linking to Yeastspotting 7-22-11

CAULIFLOWER RICE

2011-07-18T13:59:00.001+08:00

Rice is a staple in every Asian home, Instead of preparing the usual white rice, I have added cauliflower and spices to the rice. This combo turns out perfect for a quick fix meal. Adding chili powder is optional, you can omit this altogether but it gives really a nice flavor and color to this dish.

CAULIFLOWER RICE
Yield : 8 servings

2 C rice rinsed
4 C water
2 green chili slit
1 Onion chopped
1 tsp ginger minced
1 tsp garlic mince
1 C cauliflower cut into small pieces
2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
3 TB ghee/oil
Coriander leaves
salt to taste
toasted cashew nuts (optional)

METHOD

Heat the oil, add in onion and fry until light brown. Now add ginger, garlic and green chili, fry until fragrant.

Add in chili powder, turmeric and salt, fry for a minute. Add little water. Pour the cauliflower, stir until well coated with spice.

Add the rice and water, cook until the water evaporates. Reduce the heat to the lowest, cover pot and continue cooking until rice is fully cooked about 10 minutes.

Remove from heat, serve garnished with coriander leaves.and cashew nut.

EGG FREE BANANA CAKE

2011-07-15T22:49:00.001+08:00

This is a very versatile and easy recipe but when I want a delicious and quick dessert, this cake is what I love to bake. Not only it is moist and delicious, at the same time the batter can be used to make muffins. It contains no egg so it is great for those with allergies.

EGG FREE BANANA CAKE

1 and 1/4 C plain flour
1/4 C corn flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 C mashed banana
1/2 C oil/melted butter
1 TB vinegar
1/2 C sugar
1/4 C milk

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 180 C. Grease 7 in cake pan.

Sift plain flour and corn flour with baking soda, add sugar and salt

Combine banana, butter, milk and vinegar.

Add banana mixture to the flour, stir until just moistened. Add in vanilla extract.

Pour onto prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Transfer cake after 10 minutes onto rack to cool.

PUMPKIN DINNER ROLLS

2011-07-13T13:58:00.002+08:00

Adding a pumpkin to a dinner rolls will produce a bread that is slightly sweet and wonderfully rich. So I looked for a recipe on the net, decided to bake the pumpkin rolls from this site. I halved the recipe and omitted the spices except added only ground cinnamon.

This tastes amazing but incredibly sticky. Make sure you add a bit more flour if needed. For best result either steam or bake the pumpkin if you're making your own puree.

PUMPKIN DINNER ROLLS
Yield : 10 rolls

2 and 1/2 C bread flour
1/2 C warm milk
4 TB softened butter
1/2 C pumpkin puree
2 TB sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 TB rapid rise yeast
3/4 tsp salt
2 TB melted butter

METHOD

Combine flour, sugar and yeast in a mixing bowl.

Add in pumpkin, butter, salt, cinnamon and warm milk, forms into a dough.

Knead by hand for 10 minutes or use your stand mixer.

Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover and allow to rise for 1 -2 hours until doubled.

Divide dough into 10 balls and place onto baking pan. After the roll has risen for 45 minutes, preheat oven @ 180 C.

Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and apply with remaining melted butter, transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 7-15-11

MASALA CHAPATI

2011-07-11T14:09:00.000+08:00

Chapati is a thin flat unleavened bread popular in every Indian home. It is such a versatile meal that can be eaten with vegetarian or non vegetarian dishes.

They are countless variety of chapati you can try. Some adding lentil or vegetables to them but now I have added some spices to the dough and that also varies according to your taste. Serve hot with your favorite gravy, this is really a light meal you can enjoy with your family.

MASALA CHAPATI
Servings : 2

1 C wheat flour
1/2 C onion chopped
1 tsp ginger and garlic paste
1/4 C grated carrot
1/2 tsp garam masala
1 green chili sliced
2 TB mint leaves
4 TB coriander leaves
1 tsp green chili paste
salt to taste
water to bind

METHOD

Combine flour, onion, carrot, green chili, garam masala, ginger garlic, coriander leaves, mint leaves and salt in a mixing bowl.

Gradually add water to form into stiff dough. Divide into 4-5 balls. Dust your board with flour, roll out into round and place onto heated flat pan. Drizzle oil around the side, cook until it turns brown, flip and cook the other side.

Serve hot.

CAKE & FRUIT TRIFLE

2011-07-08T15:29:00.001+08:00

Since my first attempt of making Fruity Bread Trifle was well received by my family and now tried another variation using chocolate cake, either store bought or bake your own. In fact the combo of this fantastic dessert are so vast, just use your imagination to create. Definitely you discover a lot more a long the way.

Not only so much fun to prepare but tasted wonderful, won't feel bored to eat them again and again.

CAKE & FRUIT TRIFLE
Yield : 2 portion

1 C chocolate cake cubed
1 C yogurt
1 C seedless grapes cut
3 medium banana sliced
2 TB sugar
4 TB orange juice

METHOD

Whisk yogurt and sugar, keep refrigerated.

Fill the base of tall glass with cubed cake, drizzle with orange juice, top with banana, grape, cake, yogurt. Repeat until the glass is full. Last layer must be yogurt, decorate with fruit.

Chill in a refrigerator until ready to serve.

EASY PULL-APART BREAD

2011-07-06T18:08:00.002+08:00

You might be familiar with pull-apart bread made with refrigerated biscuit but how about using hot dog or dinner rolls for this recipe? The whole idea about this happens when I'd few packages of hot dog rolls untouched for a few days in my pantry.

For perfect result, do not immerse the bread cubes too long in the milk, just moistened them, lightly coat with sugar and cut the hot dog roll into bigger chunk about 1 1/4 inch..

It is incredibly easy and cost effective, made with love. Just watch it disappears quickly right after your eyes!.

EASY PULL-APART BREAD
Yield : 8 in loaf

300g dinner rolls cubed
1 C milk for dipping
3/4 C melted butter
2/3 C brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
extra sugar for coating

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 180 C and grease 8 in pan.

Cut rolls into 1 and 1/4 in cube. Dip bread cubes into milk then roll with sugar lightly.

Mix together melted butter and brown sugar, add ground cinnamon. Pour half of this mixture onto base of the greased pan.

Place the coated bread cubes onto the pan. Top with remaining butter sugar mixture.

Bake for 25-30 minutes in a preheated oven. Do watch out after 20 minutes of baking.

Cool on pan for 10 minutes. Transfer onto a plate to serve.

Linking to Yeastspotting 7-8-11

PIZZA DOUGH WITHOUT YEAST

2011-07-04T17:48:00.000+08:00

It is getting late and almost nearing to dawn but my son had requested to prepare pizza for dinner. After given a thought, decided to bake pizza without yeast eliminating a few hours of proofing time. It is amazing that the pizza dough without yeast turned out perfect except the yeasty dough will rise better than the ones without. If you are in a hurry for a decent meal, this is for you, tasty and fast to cook!

PIZZA DOUGH WITHOUT YEAST
Makes 2 - 12 in pizza

3 C all purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
5 TB melted butter/oil
2 TB dry milk
1 C warm water

METHOD

Place flour, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl, stir well.

Add dry milk, melted butter to the flour mixture.

Now add warm water and forms into a dough. Knead about 5 minutes.

Divide dough into 2. Roll out thinly each into 12 in circle. Transfer onto prepared pizza pan. Apply favorite sauce and toppings.

Bake in a preheated oven @ 190 C for 20-25 minutes.

PAPPU CHARU

2011-07-02T00:34:00.000+08:00

Famous lentil gravy from Andhra Pradesh, a state situated on south eastern coast of India. Pappu charu is a milder version of lentil gravy, done without sambar powder. Vegetables like eggplant, drumstick, radish, sweet potato , pumpkin and carrot can be added to this gravy.

This fantastic dish has a tangy and less spicy than other lentil stew but nevertheless it is excellent combo with dosa, idli or even rice.

PAPPU CHARU
Serves 4

1 C toor dhal cooked
1 onion chopped
1 tomato chopped
2 green chili
2 dry chili
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin seed
1 tsp mustard seed
1/4 tsp turmeric
1/4 tsp hing
2 C tamarind juice using 2 TB tamarind
1 sprig curry leaves
1/2 tsp garlic paste
1/2 tsp ginger paste
2 sprigs of coriander leaves
salt to taste
1 TB oil

METHOD

Extract tamarind juice using 2 tablespoons of tamarind with 2 cups of water. Heat the oil, add in mustard seed, when it crackles add the cumin, gren chili, onion, ginger garlic paste, curry leaves, hing, dry chili and salt.

Add in tomato, cook until soft. Now add the turmeric and chili powder, fry until fragrant.

Mix in the cooked dhal, 2 cups water and tamarind juice, bring to boil. .

Sprinkle with coriander leaves and remove from heat. Serve hot.

SESAME RINGS

2011-06-30T03:58:00.005+08:00

These sesame rings are better than any store bought or frozen varieties. They are so fresh and incredibly easy to bake. Sesame Rings are baked to golden perfection and best served with your favorite hot drink. The size varies, have made mine smaller but it is up to your choice. The rings topped with sesame in this breakfast or brunch are simply fantastic!

SESAME RINGS
Yield : 14 rings

2 C bread flour/all purpose flour
1 and 1/2 tsp dry yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1 TB sugar
2 TB oil
1/4 C warm water
1/2 C warm milk
1/2 C sesame seed
melted butter

METHOD

Combine dry yeast, 1/2 tablespoon of sugar and warm water. Leave for 10 minutes until yeast is frothy.

In a mixing bowl, place flour, balance of sugar and salt, mix in yeast and warm milk. Combine and forms into a dough.

Transfer onto floured board, knead by hand for 10 minutes or use your stand mixer.

Place dough into oiled and covered bowl for 1 to 2 hours.

Divide to into 14 ball. Flatten dough into 6 in long rope and join both ends. Brush with melted butter and dip onto sesame seed. Repeat again until top is fully covered with sesame seed.

Leave to rise for 1 hour. Toward the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 190 C.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer into rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 7-1-11

RED MUGHLAI CHICKEN

2011-06-28T11:58:00.000+08:00

Mughlai cuisine is originated from imperial kitchen of the Mughal empire. It is strongly influenced by Persian and Turkish cuisines of Central Asia. Mughlai cuisine has a distinctive aroma and taste of ground and whole spices using butter, cream, nuts and dried fruit.

The recipe below is a fine example of such cuisine with addition of dry red chili which lends a fiery hot color to the dish. Can be enjoyed with pilaf, naan or even bread.

RED MUGHLAI CHICKEN
Servings : 5-7

1 whole chicken (1.5kg) cut into 10-12
1/2 tsp turmeric powder

GRIND
10 dry chili soaked in hot water
5 cloves garlic
1 in ginger
2 onion
1 TB coriander seed
1 TB cumin seed
5g whole almond- soak in hot water
5g cashew

4-5 TB oil/butter
2 in cinnamon stick
2 tomato chopped
4 cardamom pods, bruised
1 C water
2 onion sliced
coriander leaves

METHOD

Cut the chicken into small pieces, trim excess fat, cleaned then drained. Apply salt and turmeric, keep aside.

Heat the oil/butter, add in cinnamon and cardamom, fry until fragrant. Stir in onion and fry until golden brown.

Add in tomato, cook until soft. Stir in blended spices and salt, cook until oil start to separate.

Now add the chicken pieces, stir until color change and well coated with spices. Add water, stir and cover pot. Using medium heat, simmer until chicken is cooked through for 20-30 minutes. If more gravy is required, do add another cup of hot water.

Add more salt if required, garnish with coriander leaves at the time of serving.

CHOCOLATE OAT BISCUIT

2011-06-25T00:49:00.000+08:00

Cookies are always a favorite to accompany a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. This sweet treat has numerous different and amazing varieties that are love by children and adults.

Chocolate oat biscuit has a healthy combo of ingredients, loaded with oat which produces a crunchy on the outside but chewy in the middle filled with toasted nuts. Despite its simplicity with bursting flavor, it is one of the most delightful desserts you can make in no time..

CHOCOLATE OAT BISCUIT

1 C all purpose flour
3 TB unsweetened cocoa
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 C butter
3/4 C brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 C rolled oat
1/2 C toasted chopped nut/ chocolate chip
2-3 TB milk

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 160 C. Stir together flour, cocoa, salt, baking powder, baking soda and cinnamon.

Cream butter and sugar until light. Stir in milk and vanilla extract.

Beat in dry ingredients, mix in oat and chocolate chip/chopped nut.

Roll into small ball and flatten slightly. Bake for 10-15 minutes.

Leave biscuit in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to rack to cool completely.

When completely cool, store in an airtight container.

BREAD LADDU

2011-06-23T00:18:00.002+08:00

Laddu or laddoo is an Indian sweet made of varieties of flour, semolina, ghee, dry fruit, nuts sweetened with sugar/jaggery and shaped into balls.

Here is my version of bread laddu using brown sugar and melted butter. The toasted bread is then shredded and coarsely ground. You can use any type of bread available at your place. It is fast and easy to prepare but more important to prevent them to disappear right after is is laid on your table. Such a delight on every bite!

BREAD LADDU

2 C coarse bread crumbs
1/2 - 3/4 C brown sugar
6 TB melted butter/ ghee
1/4 C toasted nuts (cashew, almond, peanut)
3-4 TB milk
1/4 tsp ground cardamom

METHOD

Toast the bread, break into small pieces and grind coarsely.

Place bread crumbs, sugar, nuts and cardamom into a mixing bowl. Stir well.

Mix in butter and milk until you can shape them into ball. Roll them into small balls.

Keep chilled until ready to serve. .

Linking to Yeastspotting 6-24-11

RAVA DOSA

2011-06-21T01:49:00.001+08:00

This is a quick and easy dosa (South Indian crepe) done without grinding and fermentation. It uses semolina, rice flour and all purpose flour with addition of green chili, ginger and cumin.

The consistency of the batter must be watery, it is easily spreadable once your pour onto the pan. Normally I did not flip my dosa since it is so thin but it is up to your preference.. Make sure you stir up the batter before preparing to ensure even consistency.

RAVA DOSA
Serves 3-5

2 C semolina
2 TB all purpose flour
2 TB rice flour
1 tsp cumin seed
2 green chili chopped
1/2 in ginger minced
1 tsp ground pepper
1/4 tsp asafoetida
salt to taste
3 TB coriander leaves chopped
curry leaves tear into small pieces
oil/ghee for frying
water to mix

METHOD

Place all the flour in a mixing bowl, add salt, cumin seed, green chili, ginger and pepper, stir until well combined.

Gradually add water to form into runny batter. Sprinkle with coriander leaves and curry leaves.

Heat the flat pan, using high heat, grease lightly with oil/ghee, pour a ladle of batter starting from the side in circular motion, fill the empty gap with batter. Drizzle with oil around the corner, reduce heat to medium, cook until it turns light brown, no need to flip. Complete with the rest of the batter.

Serve hot with sambar and chutney.

MICROWAVE MARBLE CAKE

2011-06-18T11:48:00.001+08:00

After a great success with 5 Minute Chocolate Cake , I wish to share with you another amazing cake done in microwave. This original recipe from Taste of Home is called Microwave Chocolate but made slight changes and turned it into marble cake.

Normally we think most microwave cake will turn very dry but not with this cake, it is so moist and tasted great. Make sure your glass/plastic container is big enough to let them rise, it filled more than double. .

MICROWAVE MARBLE CAKE
Yield : 7 in loaf

1 1/2 C all purpose flour
1 1/2 TB unsweetened cocoa
1 tsp baking soda
1 C brown/white sugar
5 TB oil/melted butter
1 C milk
1 TB vinegar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 TB all purpose flour

METHOD

Combine milk with vinegar, keep aside. Grease a 7 in microwavable dish.

In a mixing bowl combine flour, sugar and baking soda, mix well.

Combine together milk mixture, oil, vanilla and milk. Pour this to the dry ingredient, mix until well combined.

Divide batter into 2. Add cocoa to one portion and add 1 1/2 tablespoon flour to other half. Mix until well incorporated.

Put a tablespoon of plain batter on a greased microwavable container, top with a table of cocoa batter. Repeat the process until batter is used up.

Microwave on high for 5 minutes, another 2 minutes on medium. Let stand in a microwave oven for 10 minutes.

Let cool in a pan for 30 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to This Chick Cooks

GHEE RICE

2011-06-16T14:48:00.000+08:00

Most common rice dish during a festive occasion or just a normal family gathering. There are so many ways to prepare this delectable and aromatic rice. Some done without adding the evaporated milk but I have tried both, preferred the ones with milk, gives an extra flavor to the rice.

If using basmati rice, soak them for 15 minutes before proceeding. You can cook this rice using stove top, rice cooker or pressure cooker. For cooking on stove top, do use lowest heat after the water has been absorbed by the rice to avoid getting burnt. Best eaten with spicy gravy.

GHEE RICE
Serves 3-4

2 C uncooked basmati/long grain rice cleaned
2 C water
1 C evaporated milk
2 cloves garlic chopped
1/2 in ginger minced
3 onion sliced
1 stick cinnamon
1 bay leaf
2 cardamom
3 TB ghee/oil
2 TB raisin
2 TB cashew

METHOD

Heat a tablespoon of oil, fry two onion until golden brown. Remove and keep aside. In the same pan, fry the cashew until brown, transfer onto a plate, now add the raisin, fry then remove.

In a pot, heat the ghee. fry cinnamon, cardamom and bay leaf until fragrant. Add in onion, ginger and garlic. fry for 1 minute.

Pour in the cleaned rice,water, milk and salt, stir and cook until the water evaporates. Reduce heat, cover the pot and cook until done for 10 minutes or you can transfer this rice mixture into rice cooker to continue cooking.

Open the lid, add in cashew, raisin and fried onion, stir to combine.

Serve hot.

SPIRAL ROLLS

2011-06-14T14:09:00.002+08:00

These rolls can be created using any of your favorite sweet bread recipe. It takes a few minutes to shape something special for dinner or entertaining . These single size rolls saving you from worrying about crumbs from cutting.

You can also coat them with icing sugar after they have been baked. I must tell you that these rolls were yummy, buttery and chewy!

SPIRAL ROLLS
Yield : 10 rolls

2 C all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp rapid rise yeast
2 TB dry milk
1/4 C sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 C warm water
2 TB oil
60g softened butter
powdered sugar (optional)

METHOD

Place flour, dry milk, yeast. sugar, salt and oil in a mixing bowl.

Make a well , pour the water, mix and forms into a dough. If too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water.

Transfer onto a floured board, knead by hand for 10 minutes of use your stand mixer. Transfer onto oiled and covered bowl, let rise 2 hours or until doubled in size.

Lightly punch the dough, roll out into rectangle, apply melted butter then cut into 10 strips. Roll each strip between hands to create a 8 in rope, form into tight spiral. Tuck outer end piece under the roll. Place onto baking sheet.Complete with the rest of the dough. Cover and leave to rise 1 hour. Towards the end of rising time. preheat oven @ 180 C.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar (optional). Cool on rack.

Linking to Aspiring Bakers 8
Yeastspotting 6-17-11

ZUCCHINI CUTLETS

2011-06-12T00:19:00.000+08:00

Zucchini is a healthy vegetable which is low in calorie but contains useful amount of folate, potassium, vitamin A and manganese. It is quite bland to consume on its own so you need to turn them into snack or dessert to enjoy them. In this case I have prepared zucchini cutlets, one of popular Indian fried snacks. These are great as an appetizer, afternoon snack with tea or a side dish with dinner.

ZUCCHINI CUTLETS

250g shredded zucchini squeeze the juice out
1/2 C rice flour
4 green chili chopped
1 onion chopped
1 tsp cumin seed
1 tsp ginger minced
1/4 C chopped coriander leaves
salt to taste
plain flour for coating
zucchini juice/water
oil for frying

METHOD

Squeeze out the water from the shredded zucchini, keep aside.

In a mixing bowl. combine zucchini, rice flour, green chili, cumin seed, ginger, coriander leaves and salt.

Sprinkle with zucchini juice if it is too dry. Shape into patties then coat with flour.

Heat a small amount of oil in a pan using medium heat, slide in the cutlets and fry until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper.

Serve with tomato/chili sauce.

FRUITY BREAD TRIFLE

2011-06-09T01:09:00.006+08:00

Trifle is a cold dessert made of thick custard, fruit, sponge cake, fruit juice or gelatin and whipped cream. They are usually arranged in layer with fruit and sponge cake on the bottom, custard and cream on top. Now they have used brownies, muffin, crushed cookies, chocolate chip, toasted nut chocolate shaving and many more for layering this stunning desert..

I had used bread slices, banana, peaches and yogurt for this dessert. Use your imagination to create this yummy dessert. You can add more layer if using a taller glass.

FRUITY BREAD TRIFLE
Serves : 2

4 slices bread white/wholemeal spread with butter and jam, cubed
2 medium banana mashed
1/2 - 3/4 C canned peaches chopped
150 ml yogurt
fruit syrup from the canned fruit

METHOD

Line bottom of a tall clear glass with bread cubes, drizzle with fruit syrup then layer with banana and peaches.

Top with yogurt, decorate with sliced peaches.

Chill in a refrigerator at least an hour before serving.

Linking to Yeastspotting 6-10-11

CHAR KWAY TEOW

2011-06-06T13:49:00.000+08:00

This is a famous hawker food found in Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore. It is made from flat rice noodle, stir fried with light and dark soy sauce.

During olden days, char kway teow is labelled as "unhealthy" due to its high saturated fat content mainly to serve the labourer as their cheap source of energy and nutrients. As this dish has become increasingly popular, the latest version of this noodle is much healthier, free from lard but using cooking oil and more vegetables. You can add almost anything from seafood, meat or chicken to them.

CHAR KWAY TEOW
Serves : 5

500g flat fresh rice noodle
140g bean sprout/ green peas
4 cloves garlic chopped
15 prawn shelled and deveined
80g fish cake sliced

SEASONING
2 TB light soy sauce
2 TB oyster sauce
1 tsp dark soy sauce
1 tsp sweet soy sauce
2 TB chili paste or to taste
2 TB cooking oil

METHOD

Heat the oil in a wok, add in garlic and chili paste, fry until fragrant.

Add in prawn and fish cake, fry until cooked. Pour in noodle, peas and the seasoning, stir until well combined.

Remove from heat, transfer onto a plate to serve.

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE CAKE

2011-06-03T17:38:00.004+08:00

What you do if you're craving a chocolate cake in a middle of the night? The quick solution is go for microwave cake. Tried this famous cake and am totally bowled over. Delicious and chocolaty cake in 5 minutes. What else you can ask for.

I doubled the recipe, got a tray of 6 x 6 in cake out of the dough. It's so addictive and had baked them twice already. You have to try out yourselves to taste this amazing cake!

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE CAKE
Yield : 1 Coffee Mug
Adapted from here

4 TB flour
3 TB sugar
2 TB unsweetened cocoa
3 TB milk
3 TB oil
3 TB chocolate chip

METHOD

Place all the dry ingredients in a coffee mug, mix well.

Stir in milk and oil, add the chocolate chips, combine well..

Microwave on high for 4 minutes in 700W oven or 3 minutes for 1000W oven. Let sit 10 minutes before removing onto rack to cool.

SELKIRK BANNOCK

2011-06-01T17:18:00.003+08:00

There are many versions of bannock but this selkirk bannock was first introduced in Selkirk market place on 1859. It is a famous Scottish fruit loaf loaded with sultana and mixed peel.

The dough is heavy and won't rise much. The baked texture is more like a yeast cake than a bread and it is best served with your coffee/tea. Since it is easily browned, do watch out after 20 minutes of baking .

SELKIRK BANNOCK
Adapted from here

250g all purpose flour
125g sultana
60g sugar
60g butter
75ml milk
30g mixed peel
1 1/2 tsp rapid rise yeast
1/2 TB milk for glaze
1/2 TB sugar for glaze
1/4 tsp salt

METHOD

Warm butter and milk in a pan using low heat or microwave on high until just lukewarm..

In a mixing bowl, combine flour. sugar, salt and yeast. Pour in milk mixture, forms into a soft dough.

Knead until smooth for 5 minutes, transfer onto greased and covered bowl, let rise until double for 1-2 hours.

Turn out dough onto floured board, add in the sultana and knead again for 5 minutes. Place onto greased loaf and let sit for 1 hour. Preheat the oven @ 180C towards the end of rising time.

Combine sugar and milk, apply them on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. If the crust turns brown.too quickly, cover with a piece of foil.

Cool on pan 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 6-3-11

VEGAN BANANA PANCAKE

2011-05-30T14:50:00.000+08:00

This is a wonderful breakfast to start your day. By adding mashed banana to the ordinary pancake, you have created a flavorful and delicious meal. You can make perfectly good pancake without milk or even eggs. This recipe, adapted from here produces a light and fluffy pancakes. Originally it uses strawberry but I have substituted them with banana.

VEGAN BANANA PANCAKE
Serves 2-4

2 C all purpose flour
2 C soy milk
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 TB sugar
3 TB oil
2 medium banana mashed
oil for frying

METHOD

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, soda, salt and sugar with a whisk.

Combine soy milk, oil and mashed banana.

Add wet ingredients to the flour, stir until lumps are gone.

Lightly coat the pan with oil, pour 1/4 cup of batter and cook until bubbles appear. Flip and cook the other side. Complete the rest of the batter.

Serve with syrup or fruit preserve.

BANANA CHIP COOKIES

2011-05-27T13:59:00.001+08:00

After going through a few of the cookbooks, randomly selected this unique cookies to bake. It uses tapioca flour, mashed banana and banana chips, on top of that it does not use any leaving agent.

This egg free dough was so easy to handle, adding banana made them really moist and pleasant to munch with. Also added a tablespoon of instant coffee in place of banana essence. They are absolutely delicious with subtle hint of banana in them. They cooked beautifully in the oven despite using very low temperature @ 120 C..

BANANA CHIP COOKIES
Yield : 27 cookies
Adapted from Bon Appetit Cookbook by Asmah Laili

300g tapioca flour
50g corn flour
150g butter
150g brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg (optional)
125g mashed banana
1 TB lemon juice
1 TB honey
50g ground almond
50g raisin
50g chopped almond
90g banana chip
1 and 1/2 TB instant coffee or
1/2 tsp banana essence

METHOD

Bake till crispy the banana chip and chopped almond in an oven. Break the banana chips into small pieces

Combine mashed banana and lemon juice, keep aside.

Beat butter and sugar until well mixed. Add in honey, salt, mashed banana, an egg (if using), ground almond, instant coffee and raisin, stir well.

Pour in both flour, stir and mix in banana chips and chopped nut, combine well. Preheat oven @ 120 C.

Shape into small ball, flatten slightly with floured fork and place onto baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Leave on pan 5 minutes, transfer onto rack.

Store into airtight container when completely cool.

This goes to Random Recipes 4 - Just Desserts

RICOTTA MONKEY BREAD

2011-05-25T14:27:00.003+08:00

Have been itching to try my hand at monkey bread for sometime but what I had baked today is a special bread using ricotta adapted from here. Instead of shaping them into a loaf, halved the recipe and turned them into monkey bread. I went for 7 in round tin instead of bundt pan. Make sure you grease you pan generously because it tends to stick..

So glad I did, it was so inviting in its gooey deliciousness when you invert it and place onto a platter. As soon as it was out from the oven, my children started to devour them non stop!

RICOTTA MONKEY BREAD

DOUGH
3 and 1/4 C all purpose flour
1/2 C warm water
1 TB instant yeast
2 TB softened butter
3/4 C whole milk ricotta
1 1/2 tsp salt

SUGAR COATING
1/2 C melted butter
3/4 C brown sugar

METHOD

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and forms into soft dough or use your stand mixer.

Transfer dough onto floured board, knead for 10 minutes until smooth.

Place dough onto oiled and covered bowl, let rise until doubled for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Grease your pan. Divide dough into 4 balls. Pinch each ball into 5 of 1 in ball. Dip each ball with melted butter then coat with brown sugar. Stack the balls onto greased pan. Let rise for 1 and 1/2 hours in a warm place. Toward the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 190 C.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Cool on pan 5 minutes, invert on a plate to serve..

Linking to Yeastspotting 5-27-11
Bread Baking Day 40

ZUCCHINI BANANA BREAD

2011-05-23T14:39:00.002+08:00

Everyone love banana bread but have you tried zucchini and banana bread combo? In my case, I never tasted zucchini before so this is my first time tasting them.

This bread was not difficult to make and grating the zucchini is not a problem at all. It tasted really good too and very moist due to the over riped banana I had used. What a clever way to eat your veggie and fruit in a single bite.

ZUCCHINI BANANA BREAD
Yield 7 in loaf

1 and 3/4 C all purpose flour
3/4 C brown sugar
1 C grated zucchini
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
3 banana mashed
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 TB melted butter

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 180 C. Grease a round or loaf pan.

Place flour, salt, baking powder and baking soda in a mixing bowl, combine well.

In another bowl, combine banana, zucchini, sugar and butter.

Gradually add flour and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Stir until just combined.

Pour onto greased pan, bake for 45-55 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Cool on pan 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Culinary Smackdown Battle - Zucchini

SPICY FRESH PASTA W/TOMATO

2011-05-20T17:40:00.006+08:00

Never made pasta from scratch, pretty curious how pasta is made. After searching the net for the recipe, I had chosen this Eggless Pasta by Allrecipes with addition of olive oil. It is simple but the hardest part is shaping them without pasta machine. Anyway, managed to get it done. Used a combination of all purpose flour and semolina flour for the dough.

Drying your fresh pasta is the perfect way to preserve it for later use, ensure the pasta is dry enough that it does not stick together when placed in an airtight container. Properly drying your pasta will avoid a sticky pasta disaster, you can hang them on your cabinet door lined with towel or place them on lined baking sheet.

Sadly unable to snap any photo showing the process since my camera battery went flat but have a look at the dough after 10 minutes of kneading below. Though not perfectly shaped but it is quite delicious after adding spices and vegetables.

EGGLESS PASTA
Adapted from Allrecipes

1 and 1/2 C all purpose flour
1/2 C semolina flour
1/2 C warm water
2 tsp olive oil
1/2 tsp of salt

METHOD
Combine both flour, oil and salt in a mixing bowl.

Gradually add water to form into soft dough. Knead by hand for 10 minutes. Keep covered for 30 minutes.

Divide dough into 4. Roll out each ball into 1/16 in thick on a floured board using rolling pin or use pasta machine, roll up the dough jelly roll style. Cut log into small roll. Unroll the dough into long strands. Make sure to coat them with enough flour. Drop them in salted boiling water for 2-4 minutes until the pasta begin to float. Drain and cook them as per your taste. Hang them on the rack for 1 hour or more for later use Store fresh pasta in a an airtight container up to 4 days in a refrigerator or in a freezer for 1 month.

SPICY FRESH PASTA W/TOMATO
Makes 4 servings

4 C cooked pasta
1 Onion chopped
3 cloves garlic mince
3 green chili sliced
1 tsp chili flake
4 tomato chopped
1/4 C basil leaves chopped
1/2 tsp sugar
salt to taste
2 TB olive oil
Diced tomato for garnish
Extra basil leaves for garnish

METHOD

Heat the oil in a pan, fry onion until translucent. add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add in green chili, tomato and chili flake, fry until tomato turns soft.

Pour in pasta, salt, sugar and basil leaves, stir until well combined.

Remove from heat, garnish with diced tomato and basil, serve hot.

Linking to Monthly Mingle - Fresh Pasta

YOGURT BREAD

2011-05-18T19:40:00.004+08:00

I had baked yeast rolls before but never with yogurt. This is my first experience using them. Well, not much difference with other rolls, they are easy to handle.

These rolls require longer time to rise but nevertheless, they are fantastic and so fluffy! My children devoured them in no time and never fails to get appreciative comments from them. You can shape them according to your likeness either into round or as a loaf.

YOGURT BREAD
Yield : 1 Loaf or 2 mini loaf

3 C all purpose flour
2 tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
3/4 C yogurt @ room temperature
1 TB sugar
1/4 C warm water
3 TB melted butter
1 tsp sugar

METHOD

Dissolve yeast and 1 tsp sugar in warm water and keep aside for 10 minutes or until frothy.

Mix in sugar, butter, yogurt and salt. Stir well. Gradually add this mixture to the flour and forms into soft dough.

Transfer dough onto a floured board and knead by hand or use your stand mixer for 8 minutes until smooth.

Place dough in an oiled and covered bowl for 2 hours or until doubled in size.

Punch down dough and knead for 2 minutes. Shape into a loaf, tuck both side under. place dough onto greased loaf pan and let sit for 45 minutes, cover with towel. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 190 C.

Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Brush top with melted butter.

Transfer onto rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 5-20-11
Bread Baking Day 40

POTATO SALAD

2011-05-16T18:12:00.002+08:00

This potato salad may be simple but it has plenty of flavor from mayonnaise, sweet corn. potato and lemon juice. It is perfect for potluck or cookout activities. Potato salad can be flavored in a variety of ways with or without vegetables.

You can tweak this recipe by adding spicy sauces, boiled egg or even mustard. Best potato salad is made by experimenting with different ingredients as you put it together This is a quick and easy way to enjoy your salad less than 20 minutes.

POTATO SALAD
Serves 4

5 potato peeled and cut into bite size pieces
1/2 C corn kernel
1 carrot cubed
1 TB black pepper
salt to taste
1/2 C mayonnaise
1-2 TB lemon juice
1 Onion chopped
water to combine

METHOD

Place the potato in a saucepan, cover with water and salt, bring to boil until just tender about 8 minutes. Drain and cool..

Boil carrot and corn kernel until tender or use microwave to cook. Sprinkle with some water, microwave on High for 1 minute.

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to combine. Chill until ready to eat.

Linking to Recipes in 20 minutes

LEMON COOKIES

2011-05-14T14:57:00.002+08:00

These sweet and buttery cookies are always a favorite for not only you can tailor the shape but also dress them simply with granulated sugar or decorate them with your favorite frosting. They can be kept for several days in an airtight container. Adding corn flour ensures it has soft texture. Use softened butter and not easily spreadable ones for easy mixing.

These cookies are divine! They were delightful, crisp and crunchy on the outside but soft in the middle, full lemon flavor. Also great for parties and as a gift too.

LEMON COOKIES
Yield : 36 cookies

1 C all purpose flour
1/4 C corn flour
1/2 C butter
1/4 C + 2 TB powdered sugar
1 TB grated lemon rind
1 1/2 TB lemon juice
1/4 tsp salt

METHOD

Combine flour, corn flour and salt in a mixing bowl.

Cream butter and sugar, add lemon juice and lemon rind..

Gradually add flour to the butter, forms into soft dough. Preheat oven @ 160 C.

Pinch dough and shape into small balls or roll out dough 1/4 in thick and cut out shape using a cookie cutter. Place onto baking sheet.

Bake cookies for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.

Transfer and cool on rack..

Linking to Packaged Biscuit

Linking to Scent of Lemon