how to make espresso powder

How to Make Espresso Powder.

Espresso powder is most often used by bakers to enhance the flavor of brownies, cookies, and chocolate cakes. You can buy it from specialty stores, but you can also make a batch of your own espresso powder at home. All you need is espresso beans, a baking sheet, and a coffee grinder. Use your espresso powder to amp up baked goods, make a delicious steak rub, and even whip together a delicious hot beverage.

Part 1 Roasting the Beans.

1. Use 1 cup (200 grams) of espresso beans to make 1 cup of espresso powder. Depending on how often you use espresso powder, you could make a bigger or smaller batch. Fresh beans that have been newly purchased will produce the best flavor, so try to make your espresso powder before your beans go stale.

Beans generally stay fresh for about 2 weeks after they’ve been opened. If they’re in a special container with a degassing valve, they could last for up to 6 months.

Tip: If you have espresso grounds leftover from your morning coffee, you can also use them to make espresso powder. Simply spread the used grounds out on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven at 200 °F (93 °C) for about 1 hour. Run the baked grounds through a grinder to pulverize them even further, and then store them in an airtight container.

2. Preheat the oven to 200 °F (93 °C). The goal of baking the espresso beans is to slightly roast them while also drying them out even further. This helps them be ground to a much finer consistency.

If you use a temperature lower than 200 °F (93 °C), you’ll need to increase the total cooking time to compensate. For example, cooking at 170 °F (77 °C) would require about 1.5 hours of baking time.

3. Spread the espresso beans over a baking sheet in a single layer. Use an unlined, ridged baking sheet. The ridge will keep the beans from accidentally spilling over the edge. Try to space the beans apart a little bit so that the hot air can get between all of them.

A perk to baking the espresso beans is that your house will smell fantastic for a little while!

4. Bake the espresso beans for about 1 hour to give them a toasted flavor. Set a timer and let the oven do its work. There’s no need to check on the beans or flip them during the 1-hour cook time.

If you skip the baking step, the beans could create a powder that is a little too bitter for your baking needs.

5. Let the beans cool off for about 10 minutes once they’re done baking. Once the timer goes off, use an oven mitt to remove the baking sheet from the oven. Set the baking sheet on top of the stove and let the beans cool off until they’re no longer hot to the touch.

If you let the beans cool off for longer than 10 minutes, that is totally fine. 10 minutes is just the minimum so that the beans aren’t still hot when you go to grind them.

Part 2 Grinding and Storing the Powder.

1. Grind the espresso beans in small 1/4 cup (50 gram) batches. Smaller batches will make a finer powder. If you did the entire cup at once, it would be hard to really grind things down to a fine consistency. Use a coffee grinder set to the finest grind possible and pulse each batch for 15 to 20 seconds.

Tip: If you don’t have a coffee or spice grinder, you could also use a mortar and pestle or even a food processor.

2. Transfer the espresso powder to an airtight container. Once the espresso beans have been ground into a fine, powder-like substance, use a spoon to transfer them into a storage container. Pick a container that is resealable or that has a tight-fitting lid.

Keep in mind that a plastic container will absorb the smell and oil from the powder, so you may want to designate a specific container for your espresso powder.

3. Store the espresso powder in a cool, dry location for up to 6 months. If you made a big batch of espresso powder, rest assured that you have ample time to use it all up. Put it in a cupboard or pantry where it won’t come into contact with any moisture.

After 6 months, the powder will still be technically good, it just won’t be as fresh or the best quality anymore.

Part 3 Adding Espresso Powder to Recipes.

1. Add espresso powder to your baking recipes for a rich, deep flavor. For most cookies, brownies, and chocolate cakes, add just a teaspoon (2 grams) of espresso powder to really enhance the flavor of the recipe. Add an additional teaspoon (2 grams) for an actual coffee flavor.

Don’t worry—a little espresso powder doesn’t have to make your sweets taste like coffee. It really just enhances the flavors that are already in a sweet treat, especially when chocolate is involved.

2. Create a smokey steak rub with espresso powder, paprika, and brown sugar. Use 1 teaspoon (2 grams) of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon (2 grams) of light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons (4 grams) of espresso powder, and 2 teaspoons (4 grams) of salt. Mix them together in a small bowl and sprinkle the rub onto both sides of a steak before you cook it. Cook the steak however you prefer and enjoy!

Feel free to mix up the rub by adding different spices. Cinnamon or chili powder would make a great addition!

3. Make mornings special with cinnamon-sugar-espresso toast. Combine 1 tablespoon (12.5 grams) of sugar, 1 teaspoon (2 grams) of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon (2 grams) of espresso powder. Make your toast, butter it, and sprinkle the sugar mixture overtop.

If you don’t like butter, use a butter substitute. One or the other is necessary, otherwise, the sugar mixture won’t have anything to stick to.

4. Enjoy a hot mocha toddy during the colder months. In a saucepan over medium heat, mix together 1/4 cup (50 grams) of light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon (7 grams) of cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons (12 grams) of espresso powder, 2 cups (470 mL) of milk, and 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) of heavy cream. Heat the mixture until it is almost boiling, and then distribute it amongst mugs. Top the drink with whipped cream sprinkled with espresso powder.

To add an extra kick to your hot toddy, pour 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) of vodka into the pan along with the other ingredients.

Tips.

If you don’t have or can’t make espresso powder, use double the amount called for of instant coffee. You could also sub out some liquid from the recipe and use that same amount of liquid espresso.

Espresso powder is caffeinated, so use decaf espresso beans if you want to steer clear of the caffeine.

Desember 17, 2019

how to make baking powder

How to Make Baking Powder.

Baking powder (not to be mistaken for baking soda) is a leavening agent used to lighten doughs by releasing gas, forming bubbles causing the dough to rise. It is often bought ready mixed but you can easily make your own with a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Method 1 Making Your Own Baking Powder.

1. Gather your supplies. You’ll need a bowl, a sifter, a whisk, a small container with a lid, baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch or arrowroot.

2. Measure the ingredients. Use ¼ cup (130 g) of baking soda, ¼ cup (27.5 g) of the cornstarch or arrowroot, and ½ cup (81 g) of cream of tartar.

3. Sift the ingredients. This will prevent any lumps from forming in your mixture, and help to more fully incorporate all the ingredients.

4. Stir the mixture. Using a whisk, fully mix all the ingredients together.

5. Store your baking powder. It should be kept in an airtight container to prevent moisture from entering, and is good for 7 to 10 weeks.

Method 2 Making Other Baking Powder Substitutes for Recipes.

1. Use buttermilk for a rich substitute. Combine equal parts baking soda and buttermilk or plain yogurt.

The cultures in these dairy products react with the baking soda to create the gas necessary for leavening your baked goods.

Only use buttermilk as a substitute in recipes that already require wet ingredients. If necessary, reduce the measurements of the other wet ingredients to prevent your batter or dough from being too moist.

2. Try lemon juice if you don’t want to use dairy. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and baking soda for any recipes that require baking powder.

The acid in the lemon juice creates the chemical reaction with the baking soda, working in a pinch if you don't have baking powder.

Using lemon juice may leave a residual flavor, so only use it in products that you don't mind tasting mildly of citrus.

3. Use molasses if the flavor would complement your recipe. Mix ⅓ cup (113 g) of molasses with ¼ teaspoon (130 g) of baking soda. This substitution is best used in recipes that would not affect the taste much, such as in gingerbread or spice cake.

Method 3 Using Baking Powder in Your Home.

1. Freshen your carpet with baking soda. Mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with ¼ cup (130 g) of baking powder. Sprinkle the combination over your carpet and leave for 10 minutes, vacuuming afterwards.

2. Use it as a cleaner. Baking powder is great for cleaning or adding a little power to many common cleaners.

Sprinkle some baking powder in your dishwasher for an extra clean set of dishes.

Pour 1-2 tablespoons (33-66 g) baking powder in with your laundry to help boost your detergent.

Mix a little baking powder with hot water to create a paste and leave on dried food. It will work to remove the food from stoves, countertops, and dishes so that cleaning them down with a sponge afterwards is much easier.

Clean your microwave. Mix 2-4 tablespoons (66-132 g) of baking powder with 1 cup (240 mL) of water and place the mixture in the microwave. Heat until the water boils, and allow time for it to cool in the microwave. Afterwards, it should be much easier to wipe down the interior of the microwave.

Clean your dirty mop by soaking it in a mixture of warm water and baking soda. It will remove any unwanted odors from mold or mildew that may be trapped in the mop head.

Clean your drains. Pour half a cup of baking soda and then half a cup of vinegar down your clogged drain. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, and then pour hot water down the drain to rinse.

3. Clean smelly shoes. Fill a clean old sock with baking powder and let set in a pair of shoes that have begun to smell. The baking powder helps to absorb the odors.

4. Get rid of ants. If you have an ant problem in your home, sprinkle a trail of baking powder mixed with salt in front of whatever entrance you think they’re using.

5. Erase crayon from walls. Mix baking powder with warm water to create a paste. Dip a clean toothbrush into the paste and use to scrub walls with crayon drawings on them.

Tips.

Keep the baking powder dry until you are ready to use it.

Store-bought baking powder may have traces of metal or corn in it, so making your own is a way to remove these ingredients.

Desember 17, 2019

The Best Pizza Dough Recipe | The Best Homemade Pizza You'll Ever Eat

The Best Pizza Dough Recipe | The Best Homemade Pizza You'll Ever Eat.

This is the easiest, best pizza dough recipe. With just 6 ingredients and no fancy flours required (I’ve included instructions for using all-purpose or bread flour), this pizza crust requires just one bowl (no stand mixer, though you can use one if you’d like), about 3 seconds of kneading, and just 30 minutes to rise.

It’s a little silly how excited I am to share this recipe with you today. It’s pizza dough, not exactly glamorous or sexy and it was honestly pretty boring to photograph (how do you make a ball of dough look fun and appealing in pictures, please tell me!).

But as someone who has struggled with baking even the most simple recipes with yeast, perfecting this pizza dough was definitely a triumph for me and I’m really happy to announce that there’s nothing to be afraid of! Yeast baking isn’t all that scary or hard, and you too can make your own super simple pizza crust at home in a matter of minutes, no fancy ingredients required.

I kept this pizza dough recipe as simple and approachable as possible. It’s made with all-purpose flour (and notes on how to substitute that flour, in case you want to get fancy 😉), no stand mixer needed, and only the most minimal amount of kneading required.

Below I’ve tried to ask some of the most frequently asked questions about making your own pizza dough. Let’s get to it.

WHAT IS THE BEST FLOUR FOR MAKING HOMEMADE PIZZA DOUGH?

Many pizza-making-pros will likely argue that bread flour is best for making homemade pizza. However, I rarely keep any flours in my pantry that are more exotic than all-purpose flour, so when I was working on this recipe I first and foremost made sure that it worked perfectly with regular old all-purpose flour.

I did make a point to test this recipe (repeatedly, we ate a lot of pizza last week) with bread flour and it works very well when made that way, too. I find that the biggest difference is that using bread flour gives my pizza dough a crispier crust, while the all purpose flour yields a softer one.

CAN I FLAVOR MY PIZZA DOUGH?
Pizza dough on its own is obviously important as a base for your favorite pizza, but it’s also kind of… bland. Shockingly, something made primarily of flour and water isn’t super exciting to the taste buds, and most of the flavor will come from whatever toppings you add.

I do usually try to spice up my crust just a bit, though, by adding a dash of garlic powder (usually around a 1/4 teaspoon) and sometimes dried basil leaves (dried oregano could also work for you but I absolutely loathe oregano) into the dough before you add your oil and water.

HOW DO YOU STRETCH OUT PIZZA DOUGH?
You can use a rolling pin or you can use your hands. If you’re especially skilled, you can toss it up in the air and spin your dough like an Italian pizza artist, but I definitely lack the ability to tell you how to do that one.

I prefer to use a rolling pin and roll the dough out into a circle (or more like an amoeba-shape, since I can’t roll a perfect circle to save my life). Alternatively you can use your hands to flatten and stretch the dough until it reaches the desired width.

Then use your hands to pinch the edges to make a crust or fold over the edges (I always fold mine over because it gives me a thicker crust, which I love), brush the entire surface of the pizza generously with olive oil, and then use a fork to poke holes over the center of the dough to prevent any bubbles from forming while it bakes.

HOW DO YOU MAKE HOMEMADE PIZZA?
You can use this pizza dough recipe to make your own homemade pizza using any toppings you’d like (I love making Margherita pizza and have even made a BBQ chicken version using my BBQ pulled chicken).

I included instructions in the recipe, but once you’ve prepared your pizza dough, just add your favorite toppings and bake in a 425F oven for about 15 minutes (you may need longer if you add a lot of toppings). Do make sure you let your oven preheat properly and use an oven thermometer as possible, my oven takes a while to reach that temperature and usually “tells” me it’s ready when it’s not even close.

OK, are you guys sick of hearing about my beloved pizza dough recipe yet? In case you just can’t get enough, I also made a video just below that you can watch so you can see exactly how your dough should look in every step.

Ingredients.

2-2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour OR bread flour¹ divided (250-295g).
1 packet instant yeast² (2 1/4 teaspoon).
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar.
3/4 teaspoon salt.
1/8-1/4 teaspoon garlic powder and/or dried basil leaves optional.
2 Tablespoons olive oil + additional.
3/4 cup warm water³ (175ml).
Instructions.
Combine 1 cup (125g) of flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. If desired, add garlic powder and dried basil at this point as well.
Add olive oil and warm water and use a wooden spoon to stir well very well.
Gradually add another 1 cup (125g) of flour. Add any additional flour as needed (I've found that sometimes I need as much as an additional 1/3 cup), stirring until the dough is forming into a cohesive, elastic ball and is beginning to pull away from the sides of the bowl (see video above recipe for visual cue). The dough will still be slightly sticky but still should be manageable with your hands.
Drizzle a separate, large, clean bowl generously with olive oil and use a pastry brush to brush up the sides of the bowl.
Lightly dust your hands with flour and form your pizza dough into a round ball and transfer to your olive oil-brushed bowl. Use your hands to roll the pizza dough along the inside of the bowl until it is coated in olive oil, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a warm place.
Allow dough to rise for 30 minutes or until doubled in size. If you intend to bake this dough into a pizza, I also recommend preheating your oven to 425F (215C) at this point so that it will have reached temperature once your pizza is ready to bake.
Once the dough has risen, use your hands to gently deflate it and transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until smooth (about 3-5 times).
Use either your hands or a rolling pin to work the dough into 12" circle.
Transfer dough to a parchment paper lined pizza pan and either pinch the edges or fold them over to form a crust.
Drizzle additional olive oil (about a Tablespoon) over the top of the pizza and use your pastry brush to brush the entire surface of the pizza (including the crust) with olive oil.
Use a fork to poke holes all over the center of the pizza to keep the dough from bubbling up in the oven.
Add desired toppings (see the notes for a link to my favorite, 5-minute pizza sauce recipe!) and bake in a 425F (215C) preheated oven for 13-15 minutes or until toppings are golden brown. Slice and serve.

Notes.

¹I've found that all-purpose flour yields a softer crust while bread flour gives a slightly crispier exterior. Please see the post for more information on all-purpose vs. bread flour in pizza dough.
²Many commenters have reported using active dry yeast (use the same amount, 2 1/4 teaspoon) with success. Some people have proofed the yeast first with the 3/4 cup warm water, which is what I would recommend, while others have just mixed it into the dough as instructed. Both have had success!
³Ideally your water should be between 105-115F (40-46C). I usually just use warm tap water but do make sure that your water isn't too hot or it will kill your yeast!
Making in Advance.
To make in advance, let the dough rise covered at room temperature as indicated in the recipe, then deflate it, wrap it tightly so it doesn't dry out, and store in the refrigerator for up to several days or it will freeze for up to a month.
Top your pizza off with my favorite, easy, homemade pizza sauce!
Nutrition.
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 113kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 146mg | Potassium: 32mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

Juli 23, 2020

how to make vegetable pie

How to Make Vegetable Pie.

Vegetable pie is a great vegetarian meal that can be made in a host of various ways. Perfect for for cold nights or rainy days, this is true vegetarian comfort food. This recipe features an egg free pastry recipe and several suggestions to make a basic but delicious pie for your enjoyment. This pie is easily made as 1 large pie for the table, or 4 pot pies.

To serve 4.

Ingredients Pastry : 75g butter, 50ml sour cream, 1.5 cups plain flour, Cold water (as required).

Vegetable Filling : 1 onion, chopped, 1 carrot, peeled and diced, 1/2 stick celery, diced (or about 1/4 cup), 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed (or about 1 cup), 1 small zucchini / courgette, cubed, 1 cup peas (frozen is fine), 2 cloves or garlic chopped.

Sauce : 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of plain flour, 2 cups of milk, Salt and pepper.

Optional additional flavorings

1 tablespoon curry powder or your favored spice blend to taste

1 tablespoon vegetarian beef, chicken, or bacon gravy powder or 2 stock cubes (such as the vegan Massel brand)

2 tablespoons of chopped herbs such as parsley, oregano, thyme, chives.

Steps.

1. Gather your utensils & prepare your ingredients.

2. Prepare the pastry. In a food processor or other mixing bowl, combine butter and flour until blended, it should resemble fine crumbs. Add sour cream and pulse until combined. If necessary, add cold water 1 teaspoon at a time and pulse until it starts to form clumps of dough. Put aside in the fridge while you prepare your other ingredients.

3. Heat a large frying pan with a little oil or butter. Fry the carrots, onions and celery until golden brown. Add garlic and sweet potato with 1/2 cup of water. cover and simmer for 5 minutes. You may make the sauce during this time. Add zucchini and stir through, cook until vegetables are just tender. Take off the heat.

4. Make the sauce. Heat the butter and once melted, add the flour and optional spice seasonings if desired, Once combined, add the milk in batches, whisking over low heat until thick and smooth to the taste. Check for salt & pepper and add as required.

5. Combine sauce and vegetables. Add remaining peas and herbs if desired as these ingredients need minimal cooking. Place filling into the pie dish, casserole or individual serving dishes.

6. Roll out pastry thinly (approx 5mm or 1/5 of an inch) and top baking dish/s. Brush with milk or beaten egg if desired for a nice glaze.

7. Bake at 180C / 350F until pastry is golden and filling is warmed through. This is usually about 20-25 minutes.

8. Finished.

Tips.

You may use any combination of vegetables you wish, including leftover roast vegetables or add precooked lentils, chickpeas / garbanzo beans, or any other precooked legume to bulk it out, adding at the last stage when mixing with the sauce. Pumpkin or butternut squash is another nice choice.

For a treat, serve with chips or crisply baked potato wedges that have been brushed with oil and seasoned with spices, or brushed with lemon juice, olive oil and dried herbs (thyme & rosemary).

Instead of making this pastry, you may use your own recipe, or use mashed potato.

Ensure the sauce is well seasoned and the vegetables are cooked through.

Things You'll Need.

Knife, vegetable peeler, chopping board, measuring utensils.

Large pan or frying pan and wooden spoon

Medium saucepan and whisk

Pie dish (to hold at least 2 liters)

Desember 24, 2019

how to make potstickers guo tie

How to Make Potstickers (Guo Tie).

Called "guotie" in Mandarin, and translated to "potstickers" in English, these are a popular type of dumpling traditionally eaten in many Asian countries. Follow the instructions below to make the guo tie completely from scratch, or purchase potsticker or Chinese dumpling wrappers ready-made and make your own filling. The following recipe makes about 20 dumplings, enough to serve as a meal for three or four people, or an appetizer for ten.





Making the Potsticker Wrappers.



Ingredients.

Potsticker Wrappers (alternatively, use storebought wrappers).

2 cups (480 mL) all-purpose flour (have extra on-hand).

1/3 cup (80 mL) boiling water.

2/3 cup (160 mL) room temperature water.

1 egg (optional).

1/4 tsp (1 mL; a small pinch) salt (optional).

1 tsp (5 mL) vegetable oil (optional).



Mix boiling and room temperature water together. The potsticker dough may reach a better consistency if the water is slightly warm.[1] Boil 1/3 cup (80 mL) water, then remove from heat and add 2/3 cup (160 mL) room temperature water.

Alternatively, heat 1 cup (240 mL) water on low heat and remove from heat after one to three minutes. If the water begins to simmer or boil, remove from heat and let cool to slightly above room temperature before using.



Consider adding optional ingredients. While none of these ingredients are required to make guo tie, some recipes call for salt, vegetable oil, and/or egg.[2][3] Stirring roughly 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt (or a small pinch) into the water may add flavor. The other optional ingredients should be added to the flour instead, before you continue to the next step. Mix the flour with 1 tsp (5 mL) vegetable oil and/or 1 small egg to add flavor and help the dough stick together. Continue as usual, but be aware that the egg will add more liquid to the dough, so you will probably not end up using all your water in the next step.

If this is your first time making potstickers, you may wish to skip this step to keep things simple. If the wrappers fall apart or taste too bland, you may add one or more of these ingredients in your next attempt.



Mix the water gradually into the flour until it becomes sticky. Put 2 cups (480mL) all-purpose flour into a large bowl. Add the warm water a little at a time, stirring the ingredients together with chopsticks or a wooden mixing spoon. Stop adding water once the dough feels slightly sticky, and there is no more dry flour visible.

Depending on the brand of flour and the humidity in your kitchen, you may not need to use all of the water you prepared. Keep the extra water around during the next few steps in case the dough dries out.



Knead the dough with your hands until it becomes smooth. Once the dough becomes too sticky to stir, place the dough on a clean, lightly floured surface and knead the flour and water together. The dough should become smooth within a few minutes of kneading. Stop when the dough has no lumps and can be formed into a ball.

Add a light dusting of flour to the work surface or your hands if the dough sticks to them. Knead in more flour if the dough is too wet to work with.

If you see dry flour that isn't mixed into the dough, or if the dough won't stick together into a ball, add a little more warm water and knead it in.

Remember to wash and dry your hands thoroughly before you begin kneading.



Wrap the dough and let it sit 10–30 minutes. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place it in a small bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. This will trap the moisture released by the dough and cause it to soften.[4] Let the dough sit for at least 10 minutes, and preferably for half an hour.

To save time, make the filling while you wait. This step does not have to be precisely timed, so return to the dough once you are done making the filling.



Divide the dough into roughly twenty pieces. Return to the dough after it's had enough time to "relax," or soften into an easily manipulated ball. Pull it apart into small pieces, each one using about 1/20th of the total dough. You may find it easier if you first divide the dough into four large pieces, then cut each of these large pieces into five smaller ones.

Alternatively, you may use your hand to roll out the entire ball of dough into a long log 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. Cut this log into discs 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) wide.[5]



Roll each piece of dough into a circle. Sprinkle flour over a flat, clean counter or cutting board to prevent the dough from sticking. Use a rolling pin to flatten each piece of dough over this surface, creating circles about 3 inches (7.5 cm) across.[6] Use smaller circles if the dough breaks apart or looks translucent, as the dumplings may fall apart if they are rolled too thin.

You can speed up the rolling process by using the heel of your palm to flatten each piece of dough into a roughly circular shape before you roll it out more thoroughly.

Filling the potstickers may be easier if you keep the center of the circle thick and the outside edges thin.



Sprinkle each circle with flour. After each circle is finished, sprinkle both sides generously with flour to prevent sticking, and add it to the stack of finished dough circles. Your dumpling wrappers are now complete.



Keep the wrappers wet. Cover wrappers with a damp paper towel to keep them moist as you work. Once you have made the wrappers, it is best to fill them immediately before they dry out. Store unused wrappers in the fridge if you will use them within a few days, or freeze them and use any time in the next few months.[7]







Making the Filling.



Ingredients Filling.

1/2 lb (250 g) ground meat (pork, shrimp, or beef are all common).

1 cup (240 mL) Napa cabbage, Chinese cabbage, or bok choy (finely chopped).

2 tsp (10 mL) sesame oil or Chinese cooking wine.

1 tsp (5 mL) fresh ginger.

1 tsp (5 mL) fresh garlic.

1-2 stalk(s) green onion.

2 tsp (10 mL) soy sauce.

1 tsp (5 mL) salt.

1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) pepper.

1/4 cup (60 mL) chicken stock (optional).



Finely chop the cabbage. Finely chop the vegetables until you have 1 cup (240 mL). While you can use any hard, leafy, green vegetables, guo tie are traditionally made using Napa cabbage or bok choy. Both of these vegetables are sometimes sold under the name "Chinese cabbage."

If you are making vegetarian potstickers, chop 2 cups (480 mL) of vegetables instead.



Remove excess moisture from the cabbage. Toss the chopped cabbage in 1 tsp (5 mL) salt. Let sit five minutes while the salt draws out moisture, then drain the cabbage in a strainer or colander.[8]



Peel and chop other herbs and vegetables. To add a spicy flavor to the guo tie, peel fresh ginger and fresh garlic, then chop them finely until you have 1 tsp (5 mL) of each. Finally chop one or two stalks of green onion (scallions).



Mix the vegetables and ground meat together. Mix these vegetables in a large bowl containing ground or finely minced meat. In different areas of Asia, ground pork, beef, or shrimp are all commonly used, or a mixture of these.

Wash your hands in warm, soapy water after handling raw meat to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful bacteria. Clean any surfaces or utensils that came into contact with the meat in hot, soapy water once you are done using them.



Add seasonings. Mix in 2 tsp (10 mL) soy sauce, 2 tsp (20 mL) sesame oil or Chinese cooking wine, and 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) pepper. There are many variations on this recipe, and you may decide to replace some seasonings or add your own. Other common options include 1/4 cup (60 mL) chicken stock or chicken broth, a dash of chili powder, or a dash of Chinese five spice powder.[9]

If you'd like to adjust the seasonings before you make the potstickers, take a small spoonful of filling and fry it in oil until it is browned through. Taste the filling and add more seasoning if necessary.







Filling the Potstickers



Hold a potsticker wrapper on the palm of your non-dominant hand. Take one of your circular potsticker wrappings and place it on the palm of the hand you use least.



Place the filling in the potsticker wrapper. Take approximately 1/2–1 tablespoon (7–15 mL) of filling using a spoon or chopsticks and place in the center of the potsticker wrapper. If the dough is thin or the circles of dough are small, use less filling.



Fold the wrapper loosely around the filling. Fold the potsticker in half to make a half-moon shape, but do not press the edges completely together. Only press the center of the edges together, so the corners of the dumpling are still unattached.

Note: If you are using storebought dumpling wrappers, use wet fingers to dampen the edges until they are soft enough to press together.



Fold a piece of dough at one corner. Grasp one layer of dough at the corner with your index finger and thumb, then fold it toward the center of the potsticker edge, where the two sides of the circle are pressed together.[10] The soft dough should stretch into a classic potsticker pleat or wrinkle. Press the two layers of dough together at the fold to keep it in place.



Repeat until there are three or four folds on each side. Using the same technique, grasp one layer of dough at the corner and fold it over toward the center edge. Press together with the opposite layer of the potsticker. Repeat this until there are three or four folds on each potsticker, and the potsticker is completely closed.







Frying the Potstickers



Heat a pan of oil. Add cooking oil to a wok, flat skillet, or frying pan, just enough to cover the bottom of the pan in a thin layer. Heat over medium heat until the oil begins to shimmer, or when a small piece of vegetable or filling sizzles when placed in the oil.

Use a vegetable oil with a high smoking point, such as canola oil or peanut oil.



Add the potstickers to the hot oil. Carefully drop the potstickers into the pan from a short distance above the oil. Arrange them with a heat-safe utensil so the dumplings are close together but do not touch each other.[11]

You will likely need to cook your potstickers in several batches. Do not pile potstickers on top of each other in the pan, or they may not cook properly.



Reduce heat and cover the pan. Cover the pan, reduce to low heat, and fry for a few minutes until the bottom of the potstickers are crisp and golden-brown. Depending on the temperature of the pan, this could take anywhere from two to seven minutes.[12][13] You may lift the lid to check on the potstickers' progress.

Remove from heat immediately if you smell burning. Use a heat-safe utensil to unstick the potstickers from the pan, and continue after one or two minutes.



Add a small amount of water to the pan. Once one side of the potstickers are brown, lift the lid and pour 1–3 tablespoons (15–45 mL) water onto the pan, just enough to cover the base of the pan with a shallow layer.

Pour the water while rapidly moving in a circular motion around the edge of the pan. This distributes the water evenly and prevents one part of the pan from cooling down too quickly. This also reduces splatter from hot oil and water coming into contact.



Cover and cook for a few minutes more. Cover the pan again and cook on moderate or low heat for 4-5 minutes. Add more water if it boils away before the potstickers are done cooking. Note that you do not need to flip the potstickers at any point in this process; it is intentional that they are only crisp on one side.

Remove a potsticker and cut it open to check that it is done. The filling inside should be browned and fully cooked.



Serve immediately with dipping sauce. Remove the potstickers from the pan and cook additional batches if necessary. Once all the potstickers are cooked, serve them with a sauce of your choice:

Any dark vinegar can be used alone or mixed with an equal amount of soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil.

Mix vinegar with sherry or dry wine and sweet soy sauce for a sweeter dipping sauce.

Black pepper and sliced ginger add a sophisticated flavor, and can be provided with or without a dipping sauce.



Dipping Sauce.

2 tbsp (30 mL) dark vinegar (especially Qing Kiang)..

2 tbsp (30 mL) soy sauce.

1 tsp (5 mL) sesame oil.

Ground white pepper to taste.







Tips.

If you do not wish to fry your dumplings into potstickers, cook them in boiling water for 4–6 minutes instead. This method is also traditional in many areas where potstickers are eaten.

Based on preferences, filling can vary--in components and ratio--from pure meat (pork, shrimp, chicken, etc), to pure vegetables (bamboo, shiitake, cabbage, bok choy, etc), to a mixture of meat and vegetables.

The measurements for the dipping sauce can vary depending on how much sauce you want, as well as how salty or sour you would prefer the sauce to be. Feel free to experiment!



Things You'll Need.

Large bowl.

Mixing utensil.

Cling wrap.

Wok, frying pan, or flat skillet.

Lid that fits over the pan.

November 14, 2019

how to easy cook arugula

How to Easy Cook Arugula.

Arugula is a sharp, peppery green that can be used in a variety of dishes. Though arugula is best known as a raw ingredient in salads, it can also be wilted and sauteed, used to make soup, or mixed with goat cheese to create a delicious stuffing for your favorite meats.







Method 1 Wilting Arugula.



Ingredients Wilting Arugula.

Water.

Salt.





Put salted water in a pot. Put a few inches of water in the bottom of a large pot. You only need enough to create steam to wilt your arugula. To give your arugula a bit more flavor, add a pinch of salt to the pot of water.



Heat the water to boiling. Place the pot of salted water on a stovetop burner and heat it to boiling. Then, turn the heat down so the water bubbles gently.



Place arugula in a vegetable steamer over the boiling water. If you don’t have a steamer, you can rest a metal colander or strainer inside the pot, making sure the boiling water doesn’t touch it. Use as much arugula as you think you will need. Cover the pot to trap the steam inside.



Wilt the arugula for 2-3 minutes over the water. Allow the arugula to steam for a few minutes, or until wilted to your liking. Then, carefully remove the steamer from the pot of water and serve the arugula.





Things You’ll Need.

Wilting Arugula.

Large pot.

Vegetable steamer or metal colander.









Method 2 Sauteing Arugula.



Ingredients Sauteing Arugula.

Chicken broth.

Onion powder.

Garlic powder.

Pepper.

5 oz. or 150 g of fresh arugula.





Heat chicken broth and spices on the stovetop. Put ¼ cup (60 mL) of chicken broth (you may choose a reduced-sodium variety, if desired), ⅛ teaspoon (0.5 mL) of onion powder, ⅛ teaspoon (0.5 mL) of garlic powder, and a dash of pepper into a frying pan. Stir to combine, and heat the mixture until it boils.



Add arugula to the pan. Mix in 5 ounces (150 g) of washed and trimmed fresh arugula. Make sure the arugula is evenly coated in the broth and spice mixture by using tongs to toss the greens in the liquid.



Stir occasionally and let it wilt. Keep the pan on the burner for another minute or two to allow the arugula leaves to wilt. If needed, add another splash of chicken broth to keep the arugula wet. Stir the mixture occasionally.



Remove the pan from heat and serve the dish. All you need to do now is turn off your burner, remove the pan from heat, and serve the arugula. You can have it as a side dish with a meal, put it on mashed potatoes, or use it as a salad topping.





Things You’ll Need.

Sauteing Arugula.

Frying pan.

Tongs.









Method 3 Making Arugula Soup.



Ingredients Arugula Soup.

4 tablespoons (½ of a stick or 57 g) of unsalted butter.

½ of a chopped onion.

3 sprigs of thyme, with the leaves removed.

1 small Yukon Gold potato, washed, peeled, and cut it into 1-inch (2.54-cm) pieces.

4 cups (1 L) of chicken .

4 cups (1 L) of chopped, wilted arugula.

1 ½ cups (343 mL) of frozen peas, thawed.

1 teaspoon (5.0 mL) of sugar.

Crème fraîche.

Chopped herbs (like tarragon, mint, parsley, or chives).





Melt butter in a pan. Put a medium saucepan on a stovetop burner set to medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons (½ of a stick or 57 g) of unsalted butter and allow it to melt.



Add onion and thyme and cook them for 5 minutes. Add ½ of a chopped onion and 3 sprigs of thyme, with the leaves removed. Stir the mixture and cook it about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.



Add potatoes to the pan and cook them for 2 minutes. Wash and peel 1 small Yukon Gold potato (or ½ of a russet potato), then cut it into 1-inch (2.54-cm) pieces. Stir the potato pieces into the pan and cook them for about 2 minutes, or until the potatoes look chalky.



Mix in broth and cook the potatoes another 8-10 minutes. Pour 4 cups (1 L) of chicken broth (you can use a low-sodium broth if you wish) into the pan. Stir to combine the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil. Cook it for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.



Add arugula, peas, and sugar, then remove the pan from heat. Add 4 cups (1 L) of chopped, wilted arugula, 1 ½ cups (343 mL) of frozen peas, thawed, and 1 teaspoon (5.0 mL) of sugar to the pan. Mix the new ingredients thoroughly into the broth and potato mixture. Remove the pan from heat.



Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes, then puree it. Let the heat of the other ingredients soften the arugula for around 10 minutes. Then, pour the mixture into a blender and run it until all the ingredients are smoothly blended. You can season the soup with salt at this point, if desired.



Top the soup with crème fraîche and herbs, then serve it. Pour the soup into serving bowls. Put a dollop of crème fraîche on top of each portion of soup, then add chopped herbs (like tarragon, mint, parsley, or chives), and serve your soup.





Things You’ll Need.

Making Arugula Soup.

Medium saucepan.

Blender.









Method 4 Creating Goat Cheese and Arugula Stuffed Chicken.



Ingredients Goat Cheese and Arugula Stuffed Chicken.

Salt.

Pepper.

4 chicken breasts (totalling 1.5 lbs or 0.68 kg) pounded thinly.

4 oz. (115 g) of trimmed and washed arugula.

4 oz. (115 g) of soft goat cheese, broken into pieces.

1-2 tablespoons (15-30 mL) of butter or olive oil.







Preheat your oven then pound the chicken cutlets thinly. Preheat your oven to 425° F (218° C). To serve four people, use four chicken breasts (totalling 1.5 lbs or 0.68 kg). Place plastic wrap over the chicken breast cutlets. Pound the meat with the smooth side meat tenderizer until you have a thin, even layer.

You could substitute chicken for flank steak in this recipe, as well!



Arrange goat cheese and arugula on the chicken. First, add salt and pepper to your meat to season it. Then, lay the chicken flat and layer arugula and chunks of goat cheese in the middle of the meat.

For four people, 4 oz. (115 g) of trimmed and washed arugula and 4 oz. (115 g) of soft goat cheese, broken into pieces, should suffice.



Roll up the chicken cutlets. Begin with the narrowest end and roll the meat up into a pinwheel, or “roulade.” Wrap the meat with kitchen twine or secure it with toothpicks so they don’t unroll.



Brown the roulades. Put 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 mL) of butter or olive oil in a large non-stick, oven-proof skillet. Heat the butter or oil over medium heat, then add the roulades. Brown them on all sides.



Put the skillet in the oven. Place the skillet in your preheated oven and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through to 165° F (74 ° C). Carefully remove the pan from the oven using a pot holder.



Cover the chicken with foil and allow it to rest. Place aluminum foil over the skillet and seal it semi-tightly. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes, then remove the foil and the toothpicks or twine. Cut the roulades into round slices and serve the dish.



Finished.





Things You’ll Need.

Creating Goat Cheese and Arugula Stuffed Chicken.

Non-stick, oven-proof skillet.

Meat pounder.

Toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Aluminum foil.

November 19, 2019

how to make roasted mushrooms with herbs

How to Make Roasted Mushrooms with Herbs.

To add a meaty depth of flavor to your food, include roasted mushrooms. It's easy to season a sheet of your favorite mushrooms and throw them in the oven while you prepare the rest of your meal. Consider using fresh herbs, garlic, balsamic vinegar, oil, or butter. Once the roasted mushrooms are tender and fragrant, serve them with a hearty steak or make them the main course of a vegetarian meal.



Ingredients Roasted Mushrooms with Herbs

2 pounds (0.91 kg) of button or cremini mushrooms

1⁄4 cup (59 ml) of extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

8 to 12 sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary

2 tablespoons (5 g) of chopped parsley, chives, tarragon, or other fresh herbs

Makes 2 pounds (0.91 kg) of mushrooms



Steps.



1. Preheat the oven to 375 °F (191 °C) and line a sheet with foil. Use a rimmed baking sheet so the mushrooms don't slide off as you're transferring them to the oven. Tear a sheet of aluminum foil and lay it on the bottom of the rimmed baking sheet.

If you don't have aluminum foil, use parchment paper.





2. Rinse the mushrooms and cut them into quarters. Get out 2 pounds (0.91 kg) of button or cremini mushrooms and pull off the stems. Rinse the mushroom caps under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then cut each cap into quarters.

Discard the stems or add them to the pot when you make vegetable stock.





3. Mix the mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Put the mushroom quarters into a bowl and pour 1⁄4 cup (59 ml) of extra-virgin olive oil over them. Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then use a large spoon to toss the mushrooms until they're coated with the oil.

Moroccan Spice Variation.

1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground cumin.

1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of ground coriander.

1/8 teaspoon (0.3 g) of chili powder.

1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of paprika.

1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of ground cinnamon.

1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground ginger.





4. Spread the mushrooms on the sheet and scatter herb sprigs on top. Spoon the seasoned mushroom quarters onto the foil-lined sheet. Arrange them so they're in an even layer. Then place 8 to 12 sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary over the mushrooms.

The herbs will flavor the mushrooms as they cook.





5. Roast the mushrooms for 15 minutes and drain the liquid from the pan. Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook the mushrooms until they soften a little. Then remove the sheet and set a bowl on the counter. Carefully tilt the sheet so the liquid from the mushrooms drains into the bowl.

Save this liquid to use in a different recipe. For example, use the liquid as a marinade or seasoning sauce for a stir fry.



6. Roast the mushrooms for 30 more minutes. Return the baking sheet to the oven and let the mushrooms finish cooking. They should become tender and they'll shrink a little.

Since you removed the liquid that the mushrooms gave off, they'll become browned and slightly caramelized instead of mushy.



7. Toss the mushrooms with chopped herbs and serve them. Turn off the oven and remove the baking sheet. Discard the sprigs of thyme or rosemary and spoon the mushrooms into a serving dish. Stir in 2 tablespoons (5 g) of chopped parsley, chives, tarragon, or other fresh herbs and then serve the mushrooms while they're still hot.

Store the leftover mushrooms in an airtight container for up to 3 to 5 days.



Tips.

For a simple way to round out a meal, serve roasted mushrooms with crusty bread and a garden salad.



Things You'll Need.

Roasted Mushrooms with Herbs.

Measuring cups and spoons.

Knife and cutting board.

Rimmed baking sheet.

Bowl.

Aluminum foil.

Serving bowl.

November 22, 2019

how to make bakherkhani thool

How to Make Bakherkhani Thool.

The bakherkhani is (may be made thin, crisp and melt down in mouth -- or may be a "puff pastry") a specialty bakery, bread product of Kashmir. This is a common man's snack, accompanied with the Kashmiri tea. The thool is a healthy and hygienic snack, and will make your breakfast a balanced one. This Bakherkhani Thool is a spicy seasoned egg mixture poured over the warm Bakherkhani bread and cooked on both sides.

Ingredients.
2 bakherkhani bread.
2 eggs.
2 onions.
2 tablespoon of Kashmiri red chili powder.
1 tablespoon of salt.
3 tablespoon oil.
Coriander (cilantro) leaves (optional).
Green chilies (optional).

Steps.

1. Chop onions with a knife and keep onion aside.

2. Take an oiled frying pan and be warming one of the bakherkhani, while you prepare the egg mixture. Use a non-stick pan, if you like.

3. Add one tablespoon of chopped onions into a glass bowl. Add half a tablespoon of salt and Kashmiri red chili powder. Mix them well.

4. Separate an egg from its shell, emptying the egg contents into the glass bowl. Mix them well.

5. Keep the warmed bakherkhani ready, on the oiled frying pan/at low heat (one could sprinkle water and cover pan for steaming the bread).

6. Reverse the side of the bakherkhani with the help of a ladle and warm that side also.

7. Pour the blended egg mixture over the warmed bakherkhani.

8. Sprinkle/dribble oil all around on the pan with the bakherkhani.

9. Reverse the sides of bakherkhani. Cook the egg mix one first side. When side one is done/ready, turn it over -- then pour the spicy egg mixture over side two -- turning it over, letting it cook on the second side, also.

10. Remove it from the pan and serve it with your favorite kind of tomato sauce or Kashmiri onion chutney.

11. Repeat the egg mixture preparation and the cooking steps for the other bakherkhani roti and serve, as you like it!

Tips.

You might add fresh or dried coriander (cilantro) leaves and finely sliced green chilies and chopped-tomato also into the egg mixture.

This common breakfast bread can be a nutrient-packed bread by going green, fortifying it with the dried leaf (about 3% to 5% dried coriander leaf, i.e.: 97% to 95% flour).

You can also try flavored rotis, with nuts and fennel baked right into it ("Whoa!")

Sautéed onions will make them sweet, and using milder spice, you may make a more soothing recipe for the child or elderly folks!

Warnings.

Do not allow bakherkhani to be in the frying pan for a long time as this can burn it or dry it, etc. You can sprinkle with water and put a small lid over that part of the pan or griddle, if that is desirable.

Things You'll Need.

Glass mixing bowl.

Knife.

Spoon.

Frying pan (non-stick griddle, optional).

Ladle/spatula.

Januari 27, 2020

how to produce thick and glossy meringue

How to Produce Thick and Glossy Meringue.

Meringue is a light, low-fat mixture of whipped egg whites and sugar that is used to top pies or make cookies. To achieve a thick and glossy texture, attention must be paid to the details: the quality of the eggs, the time you spend beating the whites, and the temperature of the oven. Read on to learn how to make meringue.

Method 1 Making Thick and Glossy Meringue.

1. Separate the eggs. Using the freshest eggs possible, carefully separate the whites from the yolks over a clean, dry mixing bowl. Crack the shell, separate the halves, and pour the yolk gently from one shell half to the other as the white drops into the bowl. Repeat with as many eggs as your recipe calls for (usually 2 or 3 for a typically pie topping).

Reserve the yolks for later use in custard or ice cream.

Use a different egg separating technique if you prefer not to use the shell transfer method.

2. Let the egg whites sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. The temperature of the eggs greatly affects the texture of the finished meringue, so it's important to allow time for them to come to room temperature. Make sure the bowl isn't too close to a hot oven or a cool spot.

3. Beat the egg whites with cream of tartar. This binding substance helps the egg whites form into thick, glossy peaks. Most recipes call for about 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar for 2 egg whites. Beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with a hand mixer until the mixture is white and foamy with soft peaks.

4. Add sugar and continue beating. The sugar should be added slowly with one hand as you continue beating the meringue with the other hand using a hand mixer. You'll typically need 1/4 cup sugar for every 2 egg whites. Continue beating until stiff peaks begin to form. The mixture will take on a glossy, satin sheen as you add the sugar.

5. Test the peaks. Lift the hand mixer from the bowl of meringue. When you remove the beaters, stiff, thick, glossy peaks should rise and stay in place. When you tilt the bowl, the mixture should remain in place, rather than sliding forward. This means the meringue is ready to be used in a recipe.

Method 2 Knowing What Pitfalls to Avoid.

1. Make sure the mixture is at room temperature before beating. If it's too warm or cold, you won't be able to create the stiff, glossy peaks you need to make a good meringue.

2. Avoid mixing yolk or shell with the egg whites. One little splatter of yolk will prevent you from achieving good volume and high peaks. The heavy yolk changes the composition of the mixture, as do bits of shell.

If you drop some yolk or shell into the meringue, it's best to start over rather than trying to fish it out.

You can avoid getting shell in the whites by cracking the eggs over a bowl different from the one you use to mix up the meringue, then transferring the whites carefully to the mixing bowl.

3. Avoid getting water in the bowl. Make sure the mixing bowl you start with is completely clean and dry. During the mixing process, avoid getting even the merest drop of water in the bowl, as it throws off the composition of the meringue and ruins the dish.

4. Don't pour in the sugar all at once. To achieve stiff, glossy peaks, you need to add the sugar slowly to give it time to mix in thoroughly and evenly.

Method 3 Using Meringue in Recipes.

1. Use meringue as a pie topping. This popular use of meringue requires a bit less finesse than you need to make cookies, since baking the pie with slightly softer peaks will still turn out beautifully. When your pie filling is prepared, simply spread the meringue across the top, then place it in the oven and bake it until the top of the meringue is light brown at the tips.

You can make the pie look more decorative by creating mini peaks and curls. After you spread the meringue on the pie surface, use the back of a spoon to lightly touch the surface of the meringue and lift it into a small peak. Repeat in the pattern on the rest of the pie.

Be sure that your oven temperature isn't too hot when you're baking meringue pie. In order for the peaks to hold, the moisture needs to evaporate gradually with relatively low heat.

2. Make meringue cookies. To make cookies, be sure your batch of meringue has been beaten long enough to form quite thick, stiff, glossy peaks. Spoon dollops of the meringue onto a cookie sheet. Use the back of the spoon to lightly press the center of a cookie, then lift up to form a small peak. Repeat with the remaining cookies and bake them for about 10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

You can flavor meringue cookies by stirring in cinnamon, pumpkin spice, small chocolate chips, or cocoa powder.

For prettier cookies, fill an icing bag with meringue and pipe them onto the cookie sheet through a decorate tip. This way you can make ridged swirls and other patterns.

To make peppermint meringues, mix a few drops of peppermint extract and red food coloring in a bowl. After piping the meringue onto the cookie sheet, use a small clean paintbrush to pain candy cane-like stripes around the ridges of the cookies before baking them.

3. Finished.



Things You'll Need : Electric mixer, Recipe for meringue.

Desember 09, 2019