VEGETABLE PATTIES

If you have left over vegetables or craving for a satisfying spicy snack then you must try this. Made of vegetables and blended with spices, they are flavorful and nutritious as well. This patties  is a good way to let our kid to eat veggies. Some children may even avoid consuming veggies if serve as stir fry or added in the gravy simply it was tasteless or not to their liking but not with this cutlet.

The choice of  veggies is up to you to decide  but bear in mind that it should not be too spicy since you're serving small child and shape them into fun shapes and sizes. The herb used here is the coriander leaves which lend a aromatic and nice flavor to the patties.

EASY BANANA CAKE

Another banana cake? You might wonder why I'm repeatedly baking the same cake. But it is not the same,  method and ingredients slightly  differ. I have tried more than a dozen of them but this recipe is simply the best. Perfect taste and lovely texture. You have to try them to believe. Such an easy peasy banana cake with wonderful result.

SOURDOUGH ORANGE CAKE

Everyone loves a piece of yummy cake with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. As my sourdough pizza turned out really well., I like to adapt them with other variation. Made this cake using sourdough starter and fresh orange. This is an excellent choice, they are healthy and taste amazing. For sourdough starter click here.

Homemade sourdough gives this cake a uniquely delicious flavor and keeps it moist. This  Sourdough Orange Cake is a light cake, mildly sweetened and the orange lends a different taste altogether.

SPINACH DAL

This  classic Indian dish combining  mong dal with spinach  which  makes a healthy, nutritious and fabulous tasty dish  that  may be served  with rice or bread.

Including garlic, ginger and turmeric which had been shown to contain cancer-fighting substances and protein packed  ingredients in our diet not only delicious but at the same time a health booster too. Adjust the spicy level to your preference.

RAISIN CITRUS CAKE, EGGLESS

My son requested to bake a cake for our afternoon tea and for lunch
 boxes.  Instead of  buying from the store, decided to bake an easy cake using ingredients available in my pantry.  The advantage of baking your own is that you can decide what goes inside, choosing a wholesome and better quality ingredients and make them healthier. My preference goes to easy method and as simple as possible

Raisin Citrus Cake is  a great and quick cake to make, even tasted awesome without frosting. You can substitute with other fruit like apricot, cranberries or dates. Add more sugar for sweeter version.

NO-KNEAD BUTTER ROLLS

If you love to make your own bread and hate to do the kneading then this No Knead Butter Rolls are for you. This is my first attempt baking no-knead bread. Inspired by Mark Bittman's Speedy No-Knead Bread, I took a challenge to bake No-Knead Bread using sweet bread.

The most significant character is that the dough is a bit gooey and not smooth compared with the kneaded ones. Firstly I intend to bake them after 4 hours, as you can see the photo but decided to let them sit for another 4 hours. At the end of 1st rise. the dough is properly fermented when it has developed a slightly darker tone and bubbles, also long thread-like strands that cling to the bowl when it is moved.

In any event, shorter rise is acceptable too if it has the above signs of good rise. After the 2nd rise, the bread has risen sufficiently if it holds the impression of your fingertip when you poke about 1/4 in deep into the dough.

Despite its sticky nature, do not add too much flour when shaping, use slightly floured hand with the help of spatula to lift the dough. After shaping, let rise another 2 hours before baking. So delighted, my effort is not wasted, No Knead Butter Rolls  were the best home made bread I ever baked!

DOUGH AFTER 4 HOURS OF FERMENTATION

SWEET RICE PUDDING

A delicious and creamy rice pudding. If you prefer your rice pudding a little sweeter, add more sugar or jaggery. If you want to know more about jaggery click here . You may also use half coconut milk and half whole milk for a slightly subtler coconut flavor. This is a great dessert to end your meal.

SWEET RICE PUDDING
Yield    :   4 servings

1 C uncooked rice
1/4 C moong dal
3 C water
1 C jaggery/sugar or to taste
1/2 C water
1 C milk
3 T ghee/oil
1/4 C cashew
1/4 C raisin
1 tsp cardamom powder
pinch of salt

METHOD

*  Wash rice and moong dal then put them in a deep pot with 3 cups of water.

*  Cover and cook until soft, stirring in between, Add in milk and salt, bring to boil again.

*  Cook jaggery with 1/2 cup water until sugar is dissolved.  Strain.

*  In a separate pan, heat the ghee, fry the cashew until light brown, add the raisin. Pour these onto rice pot.

*  Now add the jaggery, stir well and add the cardamom. Remove from heat.

*  Ready to serve.

Linking to  Rice Contest

BANANA CUSTARD PIE, EGGLESS

Banana custard pie is so easy to make yet the result always taste so delicious. It is often served as light dessert during the summer months but can also be enjoyed them as a  special treat on Easter or Valentine's Day.

If  you want, an egg can be added to the custard. Fill the pastry only 3/4 full since it will create a mess if it's overflowing. Besides an individual mini pie, you can also use your 8 in pie dish.

If you love the tropical taste of banana baked in a pie, you will really love this banana custard pie. Try one today!

CRUST

1 1/2 C all purpose flour
1/2 C plus 2 T cold butter
1 T sugar
1/4 tsp salt
3-4 T ice water
4 medium banana sliced

METHOD

Combine flour, salt, sugar in a mixing bowl. Add butter, using your finger tip crumble until it resembles fine bread crumb. Add ice water a tablespoon at a time until a dough is formed. Chill 30 minutes.

CUSTARD

1 C milk
2 T sugar
2 T custard powder
1/4 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, whisk until smooth then strain.

TO ASSEMBLE

Preheat oven @ 180 C and butter muffin/tart pan. Divide the dough into 9 balls. Press each ball into tart/muffin pan pressing the sides and bottom. Cut off excess dough. Prick bottom with a fork. Fill each pie   with banana slices, pour custard over the banana, 3/4 full.  Bake 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on pan 5 minutes. Transfer onto rack to cool.

PRAWN BALCHAO

After checking the net for prawn recipes, I was attracted to this Prawn Balchao since it has unique name and something I never heard before. This  is a classic Goan recipe using dry chili and vinegar as its ingredients.

Prawn Balchao can be served as appetizer  or a side dish with plain boiled rice or mildly spiced pulao. Since it contains vinegar, it will stay well in the fridge for up to a week.

My family really love this spicy and tangy dish, it is best suited for spicy food lovers.

SOURDOUGH PIZZA

It was long time before I had the courage to bake my first sourdough bread. It's the sense of accomplishment that comes with it when you make something all by yourselves from scratch.

Made the preferment the night before, next morning added the rest of ingredients for making pizza. It 's almost the same method for regular yeast bread but this takes longer time to rise.

For topping, you can use your favorite or check here . These are fantastic, much softer than regular pizza. Will definitely try other types of bread with sourdough!

SOURDOUGH PIZZA
Yield      10 rolls

PRE-FERMENT
1 C water
1 C all purpose flour
1/2 tsp instant yeast

Place all ingredients in a medium size glass bowl, stir with wooden spoon and let sit in a covered bowl for 4-16 hours  in warm and draft free place. Use as directed.
.
Source    :     The Fresh Loaf

PIZZA DOUGH

1 1/2 C all purpose flour
All the above pre-ferment
3/4 tsp salt
4 T oil
1-3 T water
Topping

METHOD

Mix flour and the starter with salt, add in oil. Gradually add water until a dough is formed.

Knead by hand for 8 minutes until elastic. Place in a covered and oiled bowl until double for 2-3 hours.

Roll out dough into rectangle, spread with filling, roll up jelly roll style, cut using sharp knife into 10 rolls. Leave for 1 hour. Towards the end of raising time, preheat oven @ 190 C.

Bake for 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven. Remove and cool on rack. Ready to serve.

Source  :    food.com

Linking to   Bread Baking Day 37
                  Yeastspotting 3-4-11  

CHOCOLATE OATMEAL COOKIES

A quick and delicious cookies that uses rolled oat and cocoa powder. This Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies is very simple and easy to make.

These are healthy, fiber packed, indulgent and delicious! Another tip, you must let them sit about 5 minutes in a pan after baking since they tend to break and still very soft before transferring them onto rack to cool. They are crunchy outside but chewy inside, great for morning tea or afternoon snack too.


CHOCOLATE OATMEAL  COOKIES
Yield       27 cookies

3/4  cup  all purpose flour
1  cup   rolled oat
2  tablespoon  unsweetened cocoa
1/2  cup  butter
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4  cup  brown sugar
1/2  cup  chocolate chip
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD

Preheat oven @ 170 C. Sift flour, cocoa  and baking powder.

Cream butter, vanilla, salt  and sugar until well combined.

Stir in  flour, sugar and cocoa, mix in oat and chocolate chip. Mix well.

Roll into small ball then flatten slightly and place onto baking pan.

Bake for 10 minutes. Leave on pan 5 minutes before removing onto rack to cool.

Store in airtight container when completely cool.

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HEART SHAPED BUTTER ROLLS

What was your favorite bakes on Valentine's Day? There were breakfast, bread, cookies, bars, cupcakes, tarts, pies and candy all over the places to celebrate this occasion. In this case. I've turned this butter rolls into heart shape using sweet bread dough. Used ready made red bean paste for the filling since this is special request from my son. Other stuffing such as chocolate spread, strawberry or even kaya (egg jam) works well too.  They are wonderful for everyday or for special holiday dinner. You can  make the dough ahead of time and bake the rolls just before the dinner is ready. It uses straight forward method,  easy to prepare and  add a special touch to any meal.

For shaping, roll out each ball into oval shape, spread the filling then fold into 2, again into quarter. With sharp knife, slit the center of  folded roll half way through, spread open to get heart shape. It was time consuming but had so much fun shaping them for the very first time. These are fantastic rolls,  light buttery taste and so soft.

HEART SHAPED BUTTER ROLLS
Yield   12 rolls

2 C all purpose flour
1/4 C warm water
4 T softened butter
1/2 T dry yeast
2 T dry milk
1 T sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 C warm water
1 tsp sugar
red bean paste or other
filling of your choice

METHOD

*   Mix together  yeast, 1 tsp sugar and 1/4 cup of warm water in a bowl and for 10 minutes until frothy.

*   In a mixing bowl, put in  water, salt and yeast mixture, stir well. Add in dry milk, butter and 1 cup of flour, beat until smooth.

*   Add the remaining flour, forms into a dough.

*   Transfer onto floured board and knead for 10 minutes until elastic.

*   Keep in a covered and oiled bowl until double about 1-1 1/2 hours.

*   Gently punch out dough  and divide into 12 ball. Roll out into oval shape and stuff with filling, roll up the dough. shape into half of oval shape. Fold again into quarter. Using a sharp knife cut through the top portion and shape into a heart.

*   Repeat with the remaining dough.

*   Leave for 45 minutes. Heat the oven @ 180 C towards the end of raising time.

*   Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven, brush top with melted butter and transfer to rack to cool.

Linking to Yeastspotting 2-25-11
                Aspiring Bakers 4  

PASTA PANCAKE

This is created out of the leftover we had from cooking fried spaghetti. Instead of dumping them in a freezer I thought why don't we created another easy dish we could enjoy.

If you are not spicy person, you can easily removed the chili powder and green chili used, just sprinkle a bit of pepper will do the trick. They were surprisingly, really good! Such a perfect meal, I'll be making them often. .

PASTA PANCAKE

1 C boiled spaghetti/macaroni
1 Onion chopped
1 Tomato chopped
1 tsp chili powder or to taste
3 green chili chopped
1 tsp ginger paste
1 tsp garlic paste
1/4 C corn flour
1/4 C gram flour
salt to taste
milk to mix
oil for frying
2 T coriander leaves chopped

METHOD

*   Place pasta, onion, tomato, green chili, ginger, garlic and a tablespoon oil in a mixing bowl.

*   Mix corn flour, gram flour, salt and chili powder with small amount of milk, stir until well combined.

*   Add corn flour mixture to the pasta, mix well and forms into thick batter. The consistency is same as regular pancake batter.

*   Heat 1 teaspoon of oil, pour 2-3  tablespoons of batter into flat pan, fry until both side turn golden brown. Drizzle more oil if required.

*   Complete with the rest of the batter.

*   Serve warm with tomato/chili sauce. 

FRUIT SLICES

At times fruit cake may taste awful especially the mass produced ones but a homemade version can be truly delicious. Generally fruit cake contains a mixture of fruit and nut. If there are certain fruits you don't like, you can always include more or another, some of your favorites.

This recipe makes  quite a moist cake which is not as heavy as a traditional fruit cake. The best part, it is incredibly easy to prepare. Besides sultana and dates, it can easily replaced with chocolate chips, dried apricot, cranberries, dried pineapple or even dried papaya. Feel free to pick and mix to create a cake that's perfect for your family.

FRUIT SLICES
Yield    One 7 in loaf

1 C self raising flour
1/2 C brown sugar
3/4 C hot milk
100g butter
3/4 C dates
3/4 C sultana
flaked almond
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD

*   Soften dates and butter in hot milk. Allow to cool. Preheat oven @ 170 C and grease 7in pan.

*   In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar and sultana. Pour in dates mixture and vanilla  into the dry ingredients. Mix well, pour into prepared pan.

*   Sprinkle almond over the top and gently press into the surface.

*   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

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

*   Slice to serve.

PIZZA ROLLS

Everyone loves pizza. Have you tried  Pizza Rolls? These rolls taste exactly as regular pizza but the only difference is that it comes in rolls with a filling of your choice. They are practically great for parties, snack or lunch box.

Home made rolls give you the ability to choose what goes into them so no preservatives or mystery ingredients.  Pizza Rolls  also make a wonderful appetizer, perfect for parties or any occasion.

Mine is very spicy since my kids love them but you can omit the chili paste altogether if you're serving small kid. For filling you can opt for mushroom, bell pepper, olives, pineapple, pepperoni, ham just to name a few but for vegetarian version just minus the meat. These are best pizza roll ever!

MUTTON HARYANI

There are so many ways to cook mutton. Each and every Indian states has its own unique recipe to boot. The spices used play a vital factor to how it will taste.

Now I'm using mutton but can easily substituted with beef or lamb.  It is way more healthier since use of oil and coconut is kept to a minimum. Beside cooking on stove top, you can also use your pressure cooker, cook  up to 4-5 whistles. Adjust the spice level according to your taste. Have added a tablespoon of chili powder to the original recipe. Do you know the difference between lamb and mutton?

Lamb    :     A sheep than is less than a year old. Slaughtered between the ages of 4-12 months, very tender
                   and little fat

Mutton  :     Older sheep, has much stronger flavor, tougher meat, considerable amount of fat

Despite of the changes, this recipe is a keeper, won't feel bored to cook it again and again. Marvellous!

MILK COOKIES

These are perfect cookies for any occasion, whether you're looking for something elegant to serve with your coffee/tea or fun activities with your kid.

Milk Cookies  is not only so easy to make but the cookies retains its shape even after baking. Made using rubbing in method with just a few ingredients and you'll be amazed how this cookies turns out.

 If after adding butter, the dough is too soft to handle, you can add a tablespoon or two flour until soft pliable dough is obtained. Topping is optional and  choice is yours. Keep a close eye on them in the oven as they are easily browned.

These cookies are fantastic, rich  buttery texture and so soft. They are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face.  Milk Cookies  are great for Easter too. Enjoy!

RAISIN BREAD RECIPE

I have baked several types of sweet bread but not this classic ones. Since I had all the ingredients in hand, without further delay I mixed the dough using rapid rise yeast. You can also use active dry yeast but this requires a step that you have to activate the yeast by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water, leave for 10 minutes or until frothy before adding them to the dough. For instant yeast you can directly add to the flour.

These were incredible !  So glad  Raisin Bread  was a huge hit with my family.  Just eat on its own or slather with butter for your breakfast or in between snack.

POTATO KACHORI

Kachori is a famous spicy fried snack of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan also various  parts of India. It is made of two parts, the pastry and the filling. The filling varies from one region to another, either stuff with mong dhal, onion, gram flour, potato even the sweet kind.

The dough is filled with the filling, shape into a ball then flatten lightly by hand then deep fried until golden brown. If you're a fan of spicy dishes, this is a perfect and delicious snack to munch with. Do adjust the spice level according to your preference.

DATES LOAF

Date Loaf 

I have a habit of adding fruit or vegetables in baking simply because it is healthy and also to clear whatever in access at my pantry. This is what I'.m going to show you how to whip up a delectable dessert or snack that is moist and flavorful using dates..

Firstly remove the stone then chop the dates into larger chunks, so it is visible.(mine are too small you can't  see them at all).    Chopped nut can be added too if you want.  A nice smell  fills  the entire kitchen when baking this cake. So pleased with the result, great texture and wonderful taste.

DATES LOAF
Yield   :   One loaf

1 3/4 C all purpose flour
3/4 C sugar
1/4 C butter
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 C chopped dates
1 1/2 C boiling water
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

METHOD

*   Soak dates in boiling water, add in the butter and let sit for 20 minutes. Preheat oven @ 170 C and grease 7 in pan.

*   Sift flour, soda, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl.

*   Add in dates mixture to the flour, add vanilla extract , stir well and pour into prepared pan.

*   Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

*   Cool on pan 5 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

*   Slice when completely cool.

MAHARANI CHICKEN

Maharani Chicken is one of  the recipes by Asmah Laili. She is former popular DJ turned cookbook author and her recipes always seem to work not only for me but those who had tried her recipes. I have altered slightly to suit my taste and you should do so if you want a milder gravy.

Here, meat curry powder is used or you can also use your own combination of coriander powder, aniseed, cumin, chili powder and turmeric also I double up the tomato puree. Maharani Chicken It is so tasty and excellent with flavored rice, flat bread or even bread.

CORN FLOUR ROLLS

My first attempt baking bread using corn flour. Though we can use corn flour for bread making but it lacks gluten, the most important ingredient to make the yeast bread to rise.  You could use corn flour  in a yeast bread but should not exceed 20-25%, not half.

Another words, the process are the same as per normal flour.  Since I'm using rapid rise yeast I have cut down the rising time to only 30 minutes.  It can be done plain without any stuffing, shape according to your liking. Overall the bread is very good and  much softer,  mine was stuffed with red bean paste

CORN FLOUR ROLLS
Yield   14 rolls

2 1/4 C all purpose flour
3/4 C corn flour
3 T sugar
3 T soft butter
1/2  tsp salt
2 tsp instant yeast
200 ml warm milk
extra butter for glaze
sesame seeds to sprinkle

METHOD

*   Place 1 cup all purpose flour, 3/4 cup corn flour, sugar, butter, salt, yeast and milk in a mixing bowl, blend until well incorporated  using wooden spoon or stand mixer.

*  Add the remaining flour and forms into a soft dough.

*  Transfer dough onto floured board, knead for 5 minutes.

*  Divide dough into 14 balls and stuff with filling (if using). Let sit for 30 minutes. Brush top with melted butter. Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven @ 180 C.

*  Bake roll for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Brush again with butter.

*  Cool on rack.

Linking to Bread Baking Day 36
                Yeastspotting-2-4-11

PINEAPPLE CAKE

I really excited to bake this pineapple cake for the very first time. It is egg free and so simple to put up together.

My son bought a can of pineapple slices instead of crushed ones. So I chopped them into tiny pieces before adding to the batter or much easier way use your chopper but not too fine. My can is 565g so use only 400g of pineapple plus its juice.

I'm using 3/4 cup of sugar if you want it sweeter add another 1/4 cup since the juice is also sweetened. You can also brush the top with pineapple juice after it has been baked and apply any frosting of your choice.

PINEAPPLE CAKE
Yield   One 7 in round cake

2 C all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 - 1 C sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
400g crushed pineapple
1/4 C milk
1/4 C melted butter

METHOD

*  Preheat oven @ 180 C and grease 7 in round pan.

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

*  Add in sugar, milk, butter and pineapple to the flour. Mix until well incorporated, pour into prepared pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

*  Cool in pan for 10 minutes. Transfer onto rack to cool.

*  Serve with cream or frosting of your choice.

KASHMIRI NAAN

We went for our family dinner few weeks ago and had a North Indian meal consisting naan with  chicken and fish dishes. Since then my son had requested me to prepare the Kashmiri Naan. This naan is similar to regular ones except dry fruit mix is added to the dough. Though we have tasted other with butter and garlic but this is our top most favorite.

I didn't bake but cook them using flat pan on stove top.  It turns out wonderful and tasted almost the same as the restaurant ones.

KASHMIRI NAAN
Yield    4 Naan

2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 c plus 1 T warm water
1 tsp salt
1 tsp active dry yeast
2 T melted butter
1/4 C yogurt
1 tsp sugar
4 heaped T dry fruit /nut
extra butter to apply on top

METHOD

*  In a small bowl, combine water, sugar and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

*  Place flour, melted butter, yeast mixture, yogurt and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix well to form a soft dough.

*  Transfer dough onto floured board and knead for 10 minutes until elastic.

*  Place dough in an oiled and covered bowl for 2 hours.

*  Gently punch  the dough to release air. Transfer onto floured board. Divide dough into 4 ball.

*  Roll out dough then place 1 heaped tablespoon filling, shape dough into a ball then roll out into tear shaped bread.

*  Fry each naan without oil using heated flat pan until bubbles appear,  flip and cook the other side until brown spots appear. Remove from heat and apply butter if you like.

*  Repeat with the rest of the dough. Serve hot.

Linking to Yeastspotting 1-28-11 

BEANS & CARROT FRY

Eating vegetables is one of the sources of vitamin and mineral. It is important that vegetables are included in our diet. We have to choose a fresh and colorful veggie so that they are tasty as well as attractive especially for fussy kid.

Stir fry is much easier to prepare and hardly utilized much time. Just cut up any vegetable you want to use almost same size to ensure uniform cooking. It uses least spice but very delicious.

FRUIT CAKE

This is my version of healthy  and not so rich fruit cake but excellent taste. Now I'm using hot tea but you can also opt for hot milk that also works well with this recipe.

For mixed dry fruit, it can easily be replaced with dried cranberries, apricot or prunes, make sure you cut them into small pieces. No worries if you have no time to soak the fruit, you still can go ahead to cook them.

If you are having unexpected guest, this is great a treat for them which is so easy and takes less time to prepare. Hope you will enjoy this as much as we do.

FRUIT CAKE

1 C rolled oat
1 C all purpose flour
1 C dry fruit mix
1 C hot tea/milk
3/4 C sugar
2 T melted butter
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

METHOD

*  Soak fruit mix in hot tea for 15 minutes. Grease your 7 in pan.

*  Preheat oven @ 170 C. Sift flour and baking powder.

*  In a mixing bowl, place flour, salt, oat and sugar.

*  Now the dry fruit mixture to the flour and mix until just combined.

*  Pour into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

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

*  Slice to serve.

Linking to Get Fit With Taste

OATMEAL ROLLS

This time I tried slightly different method for baking these Oatmeal Rolls.   What I did was heating the milk, butter and sugar in a microwave oven just until warm, not piping hot  for 15 seconds, stir then continue another 15 seconds to complete the process. Then added the milk mixture together with the yeast to the flour and form into a dough.

The result of this experiment is softer bread and really love this recipe. It is so easy to handle and shaping is a brisk, even roll out the dough without dusting with the flour. If you want, you can stuff them with your favorite filling or leave them plain. Either way these Oatmeal Rolls  are great for your breakfast or teatime snack.

PRAWN SOUP

If you are soup lover like me and used to buy those ready made soup, you should consider trying this recipe. So simple to put together and the best part is you can add any vegetable of your choice beside the carrot I'd used here.

Traditionally, most of soup recipe requires you to puree them but I prefer not to do that but this is a personal preference. Serve this Prawn Soup with toasted bread and now you can enjoy light and nutritious meal, much more tasty than the store bought ones.

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BANANA RING CAKE

Another cake using banana minus the egg. Banana is very common and consumed in almost every home. It is very nutritious, each banana contains calcium, phosphorus , potassium which are needed for the bones and low in sodium, cholesterol and fat. Bananas are also rich source of Vitamin C, iron and soluble fibre which helps lower cholesterol.

Not only this banana cake is so simple and easy to prepare but moist, aromatic and full of natural goodness! If you're allergic to nuts do omit them but they  add flavor and texture to the cake.

BANANA RING CAKE

1 1/2 C all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 C melted butter
3/4 C  milk
3/4 C sugar
3 medium banana mashed
1/4 C chocolate chip
1/4 C chopped nut

METHOD

*  Preheat oven @ 175 C. Grease the ring pan.

*  Sift flour, salt and baking powder in a mixing bowl. Add in sugar, mix well.

*  In small bowl, combine milk, butter and banana, stir until well incorporated.

*  Add milk mixture to the flour, stir and add in the chocolate chip and chopped nut. Stir until well combined.

*  Pour into ring pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

*  After 5 minutes, remove on rack to cool. Slice to serve.

CHOCOLATE BREAD

There is nothing more comforting on a cold day than pulling a fresh baked bread from the oven. I just can't resist baking  them be it just plain or sweet bread.

After searching for chocolate bread on net, decided the bake this bread with slight modification from the original recipe. Used all purpose flour instead of bread flour and increased the amount of butter to 2 tablespoons. Despite these changes the bread turned fantastic. I just love the texture and taste. It is great with hot coffee of chai.

CHOCOLATE BREAD
Yield  :   One loaf

2 1/4 C bread flour
1 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/4 C warm water
1/2 C plus 2 T warm milk
3 T unsweetened cocoa
1/2 tsp salt
2 T melted butter
1/4 chocolate chip
1/4 c sugar

METHOD

*  Combine yeast, warm water and 1 teaspoon sugar in a small bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes or until frothy.

*  Place 1 1/4 cup flour, sugar, salt, butter, cocoa, yeast mixture and milk in a mixer. Beat until well blended using medium speed. Add in remaining flour.

* On floured board, knead dough until elastic about 10 minutes. Add in chocolate chip during last 2 minutes.

*  Place dough in an oiled bowl and covered for 1 hour.

*  Punch dough down, knead lightly and roll out dough  into rectangle. Roll up dough, jelly roll style, pinch ends to seal and seam side down in a greased loaf pan. Let rise 45 minutes.

*  Bake 30 minutes in a preheated oven @ 170 C.  Transfer and cool on rack.

Linking to Yeastspotting-1-14-11

PASTA UPMA

Upma is a common breakfast dish or an evening tiffin in most South Indian homes. You can use rava, vermicelli or even bread for making this tasty upma. For added taste, some add vegetables like beans, carrots, potatoes or cauliflower and garnished with cashew nut, peanut or coconut..

It is fast to cook and taste yummy. Adding lemon juice is optional and it is really healthy and an excellent dish to start your day.

PASTA UPMA

100g pasta boiled until aldente
1 onion chopped
2 green chili sliced
1 tsp mustard seed
1 tsp urad dal
1 tsp bengal gram
1 sprig curry leaves
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
salt to taste
3 T tomato sauce
2 T cooking oil
lemon juice (optional)

METHOD

* Heat the oil, splutter mustard seed, add urad dal, bengal gram, curry leaves, onion and green chili, cook until fragrant.

* Add in 1/4 cup water, salt and tomato sauce and bring to boil.

* Pour in the cooked pasta and stir well. Remove from heat.

* Garnish with coriander leaves and serve immediately.

COCONUT CAKE

Using only 6 ingredients, it is the simplest and easiest cake to prepare. You do not need any mixer but only one mixing bowl. If you are using fresh grated coconut, dry roast them until slightly dry. You can also use self raising flour, if you do, please omit baking powder and salt.

This is also my son's favorite cake, if he wants a dessert, this is what he requested me to bake. He brought them to his office and shared them with his colleagues. Most of his friends loved it and even ask for the recipe.

So easy to put together , when you are craving for a slice of cake and you want it sooner. Before you know it, the wonderful smell of amazing cake is sifting through your window. The texture was just lovely!

I am not much of an icing person but you can go ahead to apply any frosting of your choice to elevate  this cake to a heavenly dimension.

COCONUT CAKE
Makes 7 in cake

1 C all purpose flour
3/4 C sugar
1 C  dessicated coconut
3/4 C milk
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

C  =  cup

METHOD

* Preheat oven @ 175 C. Grease 7 in cake pan. Sift flour and baking powder.

* Add in sugar, salt and coconut. Pour in milk and mix until batter is smooth.

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

* Cool on pan 10 minutes, transfer onto rack to cool.

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NOODLE W/SWEET & SOUR SAUCE

This is a perfect sauce to be taken with noodle. You can add a variety of ingredients to the finished sauce to create a completely different dish. I'm using fresh yellow noodle, just blanch for 1-2 minutes in a pot of boiling water. If you're using dry noodle, please prepare them  according to the package instruction. Any type of pasta works well too.

There are several ways to cook this dish. One method is to boil the meat until soft, retaining the stock before you start cooking. Either way you choose, it turns out great and flavorful. The thickness of the soup is up to you, add less water for a thicker sauce.

NOODLE W/SWEET & SOUR SAUCE
Serves 4-6

500g fresh yellow noodle blanch and drain
2 big onion chopped
3 cloves garlic chopped
1 in ginger chopped
2 T chili paste
2 tomato chopped
500g sliced beef
250g carrot or other vegetable
3 T tomato sauce
2 T chili sauce
salt and sugar to taste
6 cups water
coriander leaves
red/green chili for garnish
3 T oil

METHOD

* Heat the oil, fry the onion, garlic, chili paste and ginger until fragrant Add tomato, cook until tomato turns soft.

* Add in sliced beef, stir for 1 minutes then add the required water, simmer until beef turns soft.

* Pour in tomato sauce, chili sauce, salt and sugar, bring to boil again.

* Now add the vegetable., once the vegetable  is cooked, remove from heat.

* To serve, place noodle in a small bowl, pour the gravy and sprinkle with coriander leaves and sliced red/green chili..

BREAD GRIDDLE CAKE

This is great if you have stale bread in you pantry. Instead of usual spread you can turn them into this super easy griddle cake. Experiment with what works best for you by adding raisin, chocolate chip or cheese.

Adding milk is depends on how wet the soaked bread is so adjust accordingly. I also sprinkles chocolate rice to some of the cake, it tasted great.

BREAD GRIDDLE CAKE
Serves 4

4 C bread torn into pieces
1/4 to 1/2 C milk
4 T sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 C all purpose flour
1 T melted butter
oil for frying

METHOD

* Place bread and milk  in a mixing bowl. Mash up the bread..

* Add sugar,  flour, salt and butter to the bread. Keep 15 minutes.

* Pour 1/4 cup of batter on greased  griddle,   fry until both sides turn golden brown.  Repeat with the rest of batter.

* Serve hot.

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OATMEAL BREAKFAST BARS

If you need a healthy and easy breakfast or in between snack to start your day, you must try this recipe. It is  made of rolled oat, dried fruit ( you can use raisin, cherry, mixed peel, cranberries) and toasted chopped nuts ( almond, hazel, cashew, peanut). They're sweetened with condensed milk instead of sugar and contains minimal fat.

To make it easier you can press the dough into square greased tin then slice after it has been baked. You'll be amazed how this healthy  treat produces a chewy and not so sweet bar despite using condensed milk.

OATMEAL BREAKFAST BAR
Yield   14 bars

1/2 cup  plus 2 tablespoon  condensed milk
125 g (1 1/3 cup)  rolled oat
80 g   (1/2 cup) dried  fruit
80 g  (1/2 cup) chopped nuts

METHOD

* Heat the condensed milk in a microwave on High for a minute. Add in rolled oat and stir.

* Mix the rest of the ingredients and roll out into rectangle in between plastic sheet, cut into bar and place onto greased baking sheet.

* Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes or until light brown @ 130 C . Remove from pan after 5 minutes and transfer into rack to cool. Store in an airtight container.

* Enjoy your healthy bar fresh from the oven.

Thanks so much for your support and encouragement my friends, may this year brings better health and happiness to you and family. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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HOMEMADE BUN

Baking bread is a long process but it gives me more drive after it turns out beautifully. Apart from normal sweet bun, baked this with sardine and chili filling. You can adjust the spices used as per your preference. These are so flavorful and soft.

They are great served during breakfast or as a tea time snack. You can use chicken instead  if you're allergic to sardine.

MUNG BEAN PAYASAM

Easy and healthy dessert you can whip up for the whole family to enjoy.  Using mung bean  and milk as its ingredient. There are various way to prepare this dessert but I soaked the bean for an hour to speed up the cooking process.

Quantity of sugar can be adjusted to your taste, if you prefer it sweeter add more sugar.

MUNG BEAN PAYASAM

150g mung bean soaked 1 hour
3/4 C palm sugar or to taste
1 1/2 C milk
1 1/2 C water
1/2 tsp cardamom powder
2 T ghee
2 T raisin
6 cashew

METHOD

 *  Place mung bean in a deep pot, boil until soft.

*   In a separate pot, boil water and sugar, strain.

*  Now add sugar syrup and milk to the mung bean, bring to boil again. Add in cardamom powder.

* Heat ghee, fry cashew and raisin then pour this into mung bean pot. Stir well.

* Ready to serve.

CHOCOLATE & CONDENSED MILK TRUFFLES

Truffles may taste rich and decadent but they are surprisingly easy to make at home. There are various variety to choose from. Try your hand at these truffles, it is super easy. It is perfect snack for any chocolate lover.

So I hope you give them a try. They are great for holiday table too, most importantly we enjoyed having them!

CHOCOLATE & CONDENSED MILK TRUFFLES
Yield    :   10 truffles

140g semi sweet biscuit crushed
10 T condensed milk
2 T toasted chopped nut
1 T cocoa powder
extra nuts for rolling or
icing sugar to roll

METHOD

*  Place biscuit in a plastic bag, crush them using rolling pin.

* Place biscuit, cocoa and nuts in a bowl.

* Gradually add condensed milk till a soft dough is form.

* Shape into balls and coat with toasted nuts or icing sugar.

* Chill for 30 minutes.

BAKED PUMPKIN BREAD

This is standard quick bread using pumpkin. I used fresh pumpkin but for easy way you can opt for canned pumpkin puree.

This is so far the most healthiest quick bread I've baked! Just imagine it uses only two tablespoons of butter and yields a moist and spongy bread.

Baked Pumpkin Bread freezes well and  make great gifts for holidays!

SWEET SESAME BREAD

I'd been requested by my son to bake a bread again.  Since I had black sesame seed on hand so thought better to incorporate them in my recipe.

After going through the net, I found great recipes but either it is made using bread maker or not to my liking. Since I love my bread to be on the sweet side, I have added more sugar in this recipe. You can also use brown sugar instead of white ones.

Despite of heavy sugar, it tasted just right and very soft. Immediately after baking my son can't resist to have a bite of this lovely bread and I too follow suit. We all love this fantastic bread, this will be regular on our menu.

SWEET SESAME BREAD

2 C all purpose flour
1 1/2 active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
2 T melted butter
1/4 C sugar
1/4 C black sesame toasted
3/4 C warm milk

METHOD

*  Dry roast the sesame seeds. In a small bowl add dry yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar and 3 tablespoons water, keep for 10 minutes or until frothy.

* Place flour, sugar, salt, yeast mixture  and sesame seed  in a mixing bowl. Using stand mixer or by hand, gradually add the milk and forms into stiff dough.

* Remove dough from the bowl, knead 10 minutes on floured board.

* Place dough into oiled bowl, keep covered under double about 1 1/2 hours.

* Punch the air out from the dough, divide into 10 portion.. Shape into ball and place onto greased pan and let rise for 45 minutes. Towards the end of raising time preheat oven @ 190 C.

* Brush tops with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes. Immediately after baking, remove and brush again with butter. Cool on rack.

Linking to Yeastspotting 12-24-10

BANDUNG (ROSE SYRUP MILK DRINK)

Most popular drink in Malaysia and Singapore, made of rose flavored syrup and milk.  Bandung (Rose Syrup Milk Drink)  is normally serves during the wedding or special occasion  This combination gives the drink its distinctive taste

While most of the time we used to buy a ready made rose syrup from the supermarket but now I make my own syrup by boiling the sugar and water then added a food coloring and rose water.  Bandung (Rose Syrup Milk Drink)  is later combines with milk and basil seeds (optional) to prepare the drink. .

SAVORY DIAMOND CUTS

Crispy, flaky and delicious deep fried snack comes in various names, some named  it as mathri, nimki, namak paare or pottiappam. What ever you called them, it is most popular snack throughout India.

This salty fried snack can be eaten anytime of the day with a cup of tea of as finger food. It is a great make ahead snack and to retain its crunchiness, do store them in airtight container. The key of making perfect diamond cuts is to fry them using medium heat so they cook evenly and you get that beautiful golden color. Adding pepper is optional, you can also add other spices if you want.

DIAMOND CUTS

1 C all purpose flour
2 T oil
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground pepper
1/2 C water (not all)
oil for deep frying

METHOD

* Place all the ingredients except water and oil in a mixing bowl.

* Gradually add water to form a pliable dough. Knead for 5 minutes. Form into a ball. Keep 30 minutes.

* Dust enough flour on your board, roll out into round. Poke the surface with a fork.

* Cut into 1 in strip then cut into diamond shape.

* Heat sufficient oil for deep frying. Slide the diamond cuts and fry until golden brown using medium heat.

* Transfer onto absorbent paper and cool.

* Store into airtight container.

OPEN POTATO TOAST

If you're bored taking bread with your usual butter and jam, you should try this one. It is fast and easy to prepare what you need is to boil and mash the potato then combine the rest of the ingredients. I have used bird's eye chili but do adjust according to your taste.

It is wonderfully tasty, my children already given a green light to make it again. I'm very sure this will be your favorite too if you try this.

OPEN POTATO TOAST

1 C mashed potato
8 bread slices
1 onion chopped
2-3 green chili chopped
chopped coriander leaves
salt to taste
water to bind
cooking oil/butter

METHOD

* Combine potato, green chili, coriander leaves and salt in a bowl. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water just to bind the potato, mix well.

* Spread the potato on the bread slices, place the bread, potato side down on a flat pan and drizzle some oil. Fry until light brown. Flip and cook the other side.

* Transfer onto plate and complete the rest of the bread slices.

* Serve hot.

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