How to Make Oats

How to Make Oats.
If you don't have the type of oats called for in a specific recipe, you might be able to make the oats you need from a less-processed form. Since freshly processed oats have more nutrients and a stronger flavor, you may even prefer them over the store-bought variety.

Ingredients.
Rolled Oats from Whole Oats Makes 2 cups (500 ml).
2 cups (500 ml) whole oat groats.

Quick-Cooking Oats from Rolled Oats Makes 2 cups (500 ml).
2 cups (500 ml) rolled oats.

Oat Bran or Oat Flour Makes 1-1/2 cups (375 ml).
2 cups (500 ml) oats (quick-cooking, rolled, or whole groats).

Thick and Enhanced Instant Oatmeal Makes 1 serving.
1/4 cup (60 ml) rolled oats or quick-cooking oats.
1 Tbsp (15 ml) oat flour.
1/8 tsp (0.6 ml) table salt.
1/2 tsp (1.25 ml) sugar.
1 Tbsp (15 ml) powdered creamer (optional).
1 to 2 Tbsp (15 to 30 ml) raisins, dried cranberries, dried blueberries, or other dried fruits (optional).
1/4 cup (60 ml) 2% milk, skim milk, or water.

Method 1 Method One: Rolled Oats from Whole Oats.
1. Steady the machine. Attach the bottom of the roller to the edge of a kitchen counter or table using an appropriately sized vise clamp.
Many oat rollers are sold with a matching clamp for this purpose. The clamp should hold the machine down as you grind the oats, making it easier to operate as a result.
This step is especially important when using a manual oat roller, but many electric versions are heavy enough to remain steady even if you do not clamp them down.
2. Load the machine with oats. Place the oats directly into the hopper at the top of the machine.
Fill the hopper to the top edge, but avoid overfilling it beyond that point. If the hopper is too small to fit the entire portion of oats, work the oats through in separate batches.
3. Choose the setting. Many oat rollers have three settings. Switch settings as desired by turning the regulating knob on the side or back of the machine.
Turning the knob changes the distance between the machine's roller bars, thereby allowing the machine to crush the oats into different sizes.
Generally, the three settings include coarse grind, coarse flakes, and thinly rolled flakes.
Use the "rolled flake" setting for rolled oats that resemble modern store-bought varieties.
If you would prefer larger, old-fashioned rolled oats, use the "coarse flakes" setting.
Choosing the "coarse grind" setting will crush the grains instead of flaking them. The resulting meal will be smaller than the flakes and will generally cook faster, but it should not be used as flour.
4. Turn the crank. Insert the handle into the side of the machine, if necessary, then turn it clockwise to pass the loaded oats through the rollers and into the collection basin.
Whole oats are easy to crush, so turning the handle shouldn't require much strength.
If you use an electric version instead of a manual one, press the "On" button (or its equivalent) to pass the oats through the machine.
5. Collect the oats. Pull the collection basin out from the bottom of the machine. Turn it upside-down into a bowl or other container to collect the newly rolled oats.
Use clean hands to quickly sift through the rolled oats. Most moderate to high quality rollers will crush the oats evenly, but damaged or poor quality machines may produce inconsistent results.
If most or all of the oats are not ground as finely as you would like, you may wish to pass them through the machine again. If only a few grains appear unbroken or too large, however, it might be easiest to simply pick them out and discard them.
6. Use the rolled oats as desired. To enjoy the full benefits of freshly rolled oats, use them immediately or within several days. You can use them to make oatmeal or any other recipe calling for rolled oats.
Freshly rolled oats retain more of their nutrients and natural flavor. The nutritional benefits and taste will gradually decline in quality as the rolled oats remain in storage, though.
If you cannot use the rolled oats immediately, place them into an airtight, freezer-safe container or plastic freezer bag and store them in your freezer for several days to two weeks. Thaw the frozen grains before use.

Method 2 Quick-Cooking Oats from Rolled Oats.
1. Place the oats in a food processor. Pour the rolled oats into the bowl of a food processor. Gently shift the machine from side to side, distributing the oats into an even layer.
Use either freshly rolled oats or store-bought rolled oats for this process.
Keeping the oats in an even layer will make it easier for the blades to reach the separate oats at a consistent pace.
If you do not have a food processor, you could use a blender, instead.
2. Pulse well. Quickly pulse the oats four or five times, or until they appear coarsely chopped. Do not wait until the oats turn into powder.
Operate the machine in short bursts. Each burst should last no longer than one or two seconds.
You can still use the oats for oatmeal if you accidentally grind them down into powder, but the resulting consistency will be mushy instead of chunky.
3. Sift through the oats. Gently stir the oats with a spoon. If there are still large, pieces of oats in the bowl of the machine, pulse the batch again.
Before pulsing the oats again, make sure that the larger pieces are positioned directly next to the blades. Try to stir the smaller pieces further away from the blades to prevent them from breaking down into powder.
If you work in small batches, you may not need a second round of pulsing.
4. Use or store as needed. You can use these quick-cooking oats immediately or store them in an airtight container until needed.
If you're starting with freshly rolled oats, try to use these quick-cooking oats immediately since they will retain more flavor and nutrients.
If you're starting with store-bought rolled oats, you should be able to store these quick-cooking oats in an airtight container at room temperature or in your refrigerator. Mark the container with the expiration date indicated on the original container of rolled oats.

Method 3 Oat Bran or Oat Flour.
1. Choose the oats. To make oat flour, use rolled oats or quick-cooking oats. To make coarse oat bran, opt for whole oat groats.
Note that you should only use whole oats if you have a durable, high-powered blender. Only use hulled oat groats; do not use raw grains.
Whole oat groats can be used to create flour, as well, but they will be much more difficult to work with and will need a longer processing time.
2. Place the oats in a blender. Pour the oats into the blender, then shift the blender from side-to-side until the oats even out and settle between the blades.
If desired, you could use a food processor instead of a blender. Keep the oats in an even layer either way to ensure an even, consistent result.
3. Grind until powdery. Switch the blender onto an appropriate speed, then allow the oats to process until they turn into powder.
Use a medium to high speed when working with rolled or quick-cooking oats. If using whole oat groats, keep the machine on a high speed.
Pause the machine every 15 to 20 seconds. Stir the oats, directing larger pieces closer to the blades, and continue grinding as needed.
Stop processing the oats once they reach your desired consistency. Within one or two minutes, the oats should develop into a coarse to fine powder.
4. Use or store the finished product. You can use the oat flour or bran immediately, but if you don't need it yet, you can also store it at room temperature in an airtight container.
Coarse oat powder can be used as bran meal. Fine oat powder can be used as flour.
To retain the full nutritional value, use bran or flour made from fresh oats immediately.
When starting with store-bought rolled oats or quick oats, keep the finished product until the expiration date marked on the original container of oats.

Method 4 Thick and Enhanced Instant Oatmeal.
1. Combine the dry ingredients. Place the oats, oat flour, salt, sugar, powdered creamer, and dried fruit into a plastic bag. Seal the bag and shake it well to combine the ingredients.
If desired, you could prepare the dry mix ahead of time. Keep the oatmeal mixture in its sealed bag and store it at room temperature. Use it before the expiration date of the quickest-expiring ingredient.
If you plan to eat this oatmeal immediately, consider using freshly rolled oats or quick-cooking oats made from freshly rolled oats. The resulting oatmeal will have a deeper taste and more nutritional value.
The addition of oat flour will create thicker oatmeal. For thin oatmeal similar to the store-bought variety, you may omit this ingredient.
The powdered creamer and dried fruit are both optional.
Plain powdered creamer is better than powdered milk since it lasts longer.
Most dry berries can be used whole. Larger dried fruit should be chopped into 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) pieces or smaller before you add them to the bag.
2. Stir the dry mixture and milk together. Dump the dry oatmeal mixture into a microwave-safe serving bowl. Pour the milk into the bowl, as well, and stir until combined.
Milk creates creamier oatmeal, but if you want to cut calories, you could skip the milk and use an equivalent amount of water.
3. Microwave for 60 seconds. Place the uncovered bowl in your microwave and cook it on full power for approximately 60 seconds.
Note that low-powered microwaves may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Allow the hot oatmeal to rest in your microwave for roughly 15 to 30 seconds before removing it.
4. Enjoy. At this point, the oatmeal should be finished and ready to eat.

Things You'll Need.

Rolled Oats from Whole Oats : Oat roller/flaker/miller (manual or electric), Vise clamp, Table, Airtight container.

Quick-Cooking Oats from Rolled Oats : Food processor or blender, Spoon, Airtight container.

Oat Bran or Oat Flour : Blender or food processor, Spoon, Airtight container.

Thick and Enhanced Instant Oatmeal : Resealable plastic bag (sandwich size), Microwave-safe bowl, Spoon, Microwave.

April 02, 2020

How to Bake with Protein Powder

How to Bake with Protein Powder.

Protein powder can increase your daily protein intake and make your baked goods more filling. Whey protein powder is a great addition to blueberry muffins, which are mixed with a combination of oat and almond flours. If you'd like quick brownies that are flavorful and filling, combine cocoa with protein powder, melted nut butter, and mashed bananas. For a simple breakfast, combine oats with protein powder and your favorite toppings. Bake the oatmeal cups in a muffin tin for simple, protein-packed breakfasts.

Ingredients.
Whey Protein Powder Blueberry Muffins.
1 cup (90 g) oat flour, 1/4 cup (24 g) almond flour, 3 egg whites, 1/2 cup (142 g) Greek yogurt, 1 cup (255 g) unsweetened applesauce.
2 tablespoons (21 g) honey, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract, 1 medium banana, peeled and mashed, 3 scoops (about 3/4 cup or 75 g) whey protein powder (plain or vanilla).
1 teaspoon (2 g) cinnamon, 1 1/2 teaspoons (7 g) baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) baking soda, 1 teaspoon (2 g) orange zest or lemon zest.
1 cup (150 g) blueberries (fresh or frozen).
Makes 12 muffins

Protein-Powder Brownies.
3 medium, overripe bananas, 1/2 cup (125 g) smooth nut or seed butter (such as peanut, almond, soy, or sunflower).
1/4 cup (25 g) cocoa powder, 1 to 2 scoops (1/4 to 1/2 cup or 25 to 50 g) protein powder (paleo, vegan, or casein).
Makes about 9 brownies.

Protein Powder Oatmeal Cups.
3 cups (270 g) rolled oats, 3 scoops (75 g) protein powder, 1 teaspoon (4 g) baking powder, 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground cinnamon.
1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) sea salt, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract, 1/2 cup (128 g) unsweetened applesauce.
1/2 cup (142 g) plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) coconut oil, melted, 1/4 cup (85 g) honey, 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened almond milk.
2 tablespoons (20 g) hemp seeds, 6 tablespoons (63 g) chocolate chips, optional, 3/4 cup (192 g) blueberries, optional, 1 tablespoon (16 g) peanut butter, optional.
Makes 12 cups

Method 1 Using Protein Powder in Baked Goods.

1. Decide what protein powder to use. Buy protein powder online, from the grocery store, from a vitamin and supplement store, or from your local natural grocers. Since protein powders are derived from different sources, choose one based on your own health needs. Consider using: Whey or casein protein powders, which are easy to digest and include all of the essential amino acids.

Soy protein powder, which can boost bone density and reduce cholesterol.

Plant-based proteins, which can be made from hemp, rice or peas are good gluten-free and vegan choices.

2. Include moisture and fat in the recipe. Recipes that include protein powder usually have more moisture and fat because these are absorbed by the protein powder. Don't cut back on the moisture or fat because your baked goods won't have as much flavor and they'll be tough or rubbery.

Foods that add moisture include bananas, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, cooked sweet potatoes and beets, pumpkin puree, and applesauce.

Fats used in baked goods include coconut butter, nut and seed butters, butter, and lard.

3. Avoid using too much protein powder. Don't be tempted to substitute most or all of the flour in a recipe with protein powder or the recipe won't turn out. Ensure that the batter for your baked goods isn't more than 50% protein powder or the food will be tough and dry.

4. Use the powder in recipes for breads, muffins, and cupcakes. Protein powder is great for baking because it's easy to add without changing the flavor of the food, especially if you use an unflavored protein powder. Protein powder works well in quick breads, muffins, pancakes, granola bars, and cupcakes.

Some recipes may specify which protein powder to use. If the recipe doesn't specify, use the protein powder that you're the most comfortable with using.

5. Make smart substitutions. If you'd like to use a different protein powder than the one that's recommended in your recipe, you can make a few swaps. You can substitute the same type of protein powder, but avoid substituting a completely different type of protein. Specifically, don't use a whey or casein-based protein powder in a recipe that calls for a plant-based protein powder.

If you're substituting a plant-based protein powder such as pea protein powder for another plant-based protein powder such as hemp powder, you can safely make substitutions.

Method 2 Baking Whey Protein Powder Blueberry Muffins.

1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and prepare a muffin tin. Spray a 12-hole muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners. Set the tin aside.

2. Mix together the egg whites, yogurt, applesauce, honey, vanilla extract and mashed banana. Get out a large mixing bowl and place 3 egg whites into it. Add 1 peeled banana and mash it a little. Mix in 1/2 cup (142 g) of Greek yogurt, 1 cup (255 g) of unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons (21 g) of honey, and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of vanilla extract.

You can discard or save the egg yolks for another recipe.

3. Stir the oat flour, almond meal, vanilla whey protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and orange zest. Get out another mixing bowl and measure 1 cup (90 g) of oat flour into it. Stir in 1/4 cup (24 g) of almond flour, 3 scoops (about 3/4 cup or 75 g) of plain or vanilla whey protein powder, 1 teaspoon (2 g) of cinnamon, 1 1/2 teaspoons (7 g) of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon (2 g) of orange or lemon zest.

4. Stir the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir them until they're incorporated. The muffin batter should be smooth.

5. Fill the muffin tin and spread the blueberries on top. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to fill each hole in the muffin tin 3/4 full with batter. Get out 1 cup (150 g) of blueberries (fresh or frozen) and put about 8 berries on top of each muffin.

Avoid pushing the blueberries into the muffin batter or they may sink to the bottom.

6. Bake the blueberry muffins for 20 minutes. Put the muffin tin into the preheated oven and cook the muffins until they're golden brown and firm to the touch. If you insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of a muffin, it should come out clean.

7. Serve or store the blueberry muffins. Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before you serve them. Store the cooled blueberry muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Things You'll Need.

Whey Protein Powder Blueberry Muffins : Measuring cups and spoons, 12-hole muffin tin, 2 mixing bowls, Spoon or spatula, Toothpick or cake tester.

Method 3 Making Protein-Powder Brownies.

1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and prepare a baking dish. Get out an 8 x 8-inch (20 x 20-cm) baking dish or a small loaf pan. Spray it with cooking spray to prevent the brownies from sticking.

2. Melt the nut or seed butter. Put 1/2 cup (125 g) of smooth nut or seed butter into a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan on the stove. Microwave the nut or seed butter for 20 to 30 seconds or heat it over medium-heat on the stove. Heat the nut or seed butter for a few minutes, so it melts.

3. Put the bananas, cocoa powder, protein powder, and melted nut butter into a blender. Peel 3 medium, overripe bananas and put them into a blender. Add 1/4 cup (25 g) of cocoa powder, 1 to 2 scoops (1/4 to 1/2 cup or 25 to 50 g) of protein powder, and the melted nut or seed butter.

Avoid using whey protein powder for this recipe, because it will make the brownies gummy. Instead, use plant-based, soy, or vegan protein powder.

4. Blend the ingredients for 30 seconds. Put the lid on your blender and turn it on for about 30 seconds, so the brownie ingredients are completely combined and smooth.

5. Spread the batter in the pan and bake the brownies for 20 minutes. Scoop the batter into the greased baking dish. Use an offset spatula to spread the batter evenly. Put the dish into the preheated oven and bake the brownies for 20 minutes.

6. Check the brownies and remove them from the oven. Insert a toothpick or cake tester to see if the brownies have finished cooking. The tester or toothpick should come out clean. If it doesn't, return the brownies to the oven for another 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the cooked brownies and let them cool completely in the pan.

7. Slice and serve the protein powder brownies. Cut the brownies into as many pieces as you like. You should be able to get around 9 standard sized brownies. Refrigerate any leftover brownies in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.

You can also freeze the brownies for 4 to 6 months.

Things You'll Need.

Protein-Powder Brownies : 8 x 8-inch (20 x 20-cm) baking dish or a small loaf pan, Measuring cups, Spoon, Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, Blender, Toothpick or cake tester, Knife.

Method 4 Baking Protein Powder Oatmeal Cups

1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and grease a muffin tin. Spray a 12-hole muffin tin with cooking spray or brush it with melted coconut oil. Set the pan aside.

2. Mix the oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and sea salt. Get out a large mixing bowl and place 3 cups (270 g) of rolled oats into it. Add 3 scoops (75 g) of protein powder, 1 teaspoon (4 g) of baking powder, 1 teaspoon (2 g) of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) of sea salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are combined.

3. Whisk the eggs, vanilla, applesauce, Greek yogurt, coconut oil, honey, and almond milk. Get out another mixing bowl and crack in 2 eggs. Whisk in 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup (128 g) of unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 cup (142 g) of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup (85 g) of honey, and 1 cup (240 ml) of unsweetened almond milk until they're combined.

4. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until they're just combined.

5. Spoon the batter into the tin. Divide the batter evenly between the 12 holes of the greased muffin tin.

6. Sprinkle the hemp seeds and optional toppings over the batter. Measure 2 tablespoons (20 g) of hemp seeds and scatter them evenly over the batter in the muffin tins. Decide if you'd like to top the oatmeal cups with chocolate chips, blueberries, or peanut butter. If so, sprinkle 6 tablespoons (63 g) of chocolate chips or 3/4 cup (192 g) of blueberries over the batter.

For a peanut butter drizzle, melt 1 tablespoon (16 g) of peanut butter in a microwave-safe container for 10 seconds and drizzle it over the batter.

7. Bake the oatmeal cups for 15 to 20 minutes. Put the tin into the preheated oven and cook the cups until they become golden and completely cooked throughout.

8. Cool the oatmeal cups for 20 minutes. Remove the tin from the oven and let the oatmeal cups cool completely in the tin before you take them out. Serve the cold oatmeal cups or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

To freeze the oatmeal cups, store them in an airtight container for up to 4 months. To reheat them, remove 1 to 2 cups and heat them in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.

Things You'll Need.

Protein Powder Oatmeal Cups : Measuring cups and spoons, 12-hole muffin tin, 2 mixing bowls, Spoon or spatula.

Januari 16, 2020

How to Use Quinoa

How to Use Quinoa.

Quinoa is a whole grain cooked over the stove like rice. As quinoa is a great source of fiber and protein, adding quinoa to your diet can be a great way to add extra nutrients. There are a number of ways to eat quinoa. You can eat quinoa on its own, add it to meals, mix it in with foods, and use it for baking.

Method 1 Making Meals with Quinoa.
1. Eat quinoa on its own. Quinoa is cooked over the stove and is usually ready in about 20 minutes. Quinoa has a mild, nutty flavor and can be eaten on its own with minimal flavoring as a snack or lunch. A bowl of quinoa is a little bland, but it can be a good option for a quick and filling meal.
As quinoa does not have a lot of flavor, a bowl of quinoa can be a great meal if you're feeling a little queasy.
2. Make a breakfast or lunch bowl with quinoa. Add quinoa to a bowl and then mix in other ingredients and spices. Quinoa served in a bowl with a fried egg, veggies, a little cheese, and some hot sauce can be a great breakfast bowl. You can add any combination of foods and spices you want to a bowl of quinoa, due to its mild flavor, and have a great and quick meal for breakfast or lunch.
If you're eating lunch on the go, a quinoa bowl is a great option. It is easy to pack a quinoa bowl in a Tupperware container the way you would pack a salad.
3. Stuff vegetables with quinoa. There are many stuffed vegetable recipes, such as stuffed peppers, that require stuffing vegetables with things like beans, rice, or meats. You can substitute cooked quinoa in these recipes if you have quinoa you need to use. Quinoa can add extra fiber and nutrients to a meal, especially when used over heavier stuffings like ground beef.
4. Eat quinoa for breakfast. If you usually eat something like oatmeal for breakfast, try substituting quinoa instead. Add a bit of maple syrup to your quinoa and some nuts for a quick breakfast on the go.
Leftover quinoa can also be used as a cereal. Add some quinoa to a bowl and mix in some fresh berries. Fill the bowl with milk for a quick, easy, and nutritious breakfast.
5. Make a pasta dish with quinoa. Noodles do not have as many nutrients as quinoa and tend to have more calories. Try substituting quinoa for noodles in a pasta recipe. Instead of making spaghetti with noodles, for example, mix your sauce, meat, and cheese into a bowl of quinoa. You will still get the same basic flavor, but without the empty carbs.

Method 2 Adding Quinoa to Other Foods
1. Add quinoa to a salad. If you're having a salad for lunch or dinner, mix a handful of leftover quinoa into your vegetables. This will add extra fiber and protein,making the meal more filling and nutritious.
Nuts are frequently used to add protein to a salad. While nuts are nutritious, they are high calorie. If you're trying to cut back on calories, substitute quinoa for nuts in your salad.
As quinoa has a mild flavor, it blends well with a variety of different dressings and flavor profiles.
2. Stir quinoa into chili. A hearty chili is a great meal if you want something quick and easy to reheat. To add extra fiber and nutrients to a chili dish, mix in some quinoa during the last 15 minutes of cooking time. About two cups is enough for a full batch of chili.
Remember, quinoa only has a mild flavor. You do not need to go overboard adding extra spices after throwing in your quinoa.
3. Use quinoa instead of breadcrumbs. For things like breaded chicken or pastas topped with breadcrumbs, breadcrumbs often add unnecessary extra calories without extra nutrients. Instead of breading chicken with breadcrumbs, bread it with cooked quinoa. You can still follow the recipe more or less the same, but swap out breadcrumbs for cooked quinoa.
4. Use quinoa in a smoothie. A smoothie can be a quick and healthy snack to have before or after a workout. However, smoothies are sometimes not filling. Adding extra protein to your smoothie can help you get full faster, so add some quinoa to your smoothie before blending it. Due to quinoa's mild flavor, it will not interfere with the existing ingredient's flavors.

Method 3 Baking with Quinoa.
1. Add quinoa to a quiche. Quinoa can add extra protein and antioxidants to a quiche. For every eight eggs you add to a quiche, you can add one cup of cooked quinoa. The next time you're baking a quiche, try adding quinoa to add nutrients to the dish.
2. Bake energy bars with quinoa. Combine two cups of quinoa with a cup of whole wheat flour. Then, add any mix-ins you want such as dried fruits, chocolate chips, or seeds. Add two cups of oats, one egg, and a teaspoon of baking soda. Form the batter into bars and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. This will make great energy bars to eat as a nutritious snack throughout the day.
3. Fold quinoa into a cake batter. If you want to add a little nutrition to cake, sprinkle some cooked quinoa into the batter and then mix it in. This will not interfere with your cake's flavor, but it will help slow down blood sugar spikes after eating a slice of cake.
Keep in mind, a cake is not a healthy option even with the addition of quinoa. It is still high in sugar and should only be eaten as a treat.

April 02, 2020

how to make oatcakes

How to Make Oatcakes.

Oatcakes are a traditional Scottish cracker or biscuit that goes well with cheese, jam, dips or even as they are. It's really important to use very fresh oats in these, otherwise they'll taste stale even after baking. You'll need around 25 minutes to make these, with another 20 minutes for cooking time.

This recipe makes around 20 oatcakes.
Ingredients.
225g (8 oz) medium oatmeal
1 teaspoon salt
15g (1/2 oz) butter or margarine
100ml (3 1/2 fl oz) tepid (lukewarm) water
Extra oatmeal when rolling the oatcakes

Steps.

1. Place the oatmeal into the mixing bowl. Add the butter and salt. Using the tips of your fingers, gently rub the butter into the oatmeal.

2. Add the water. Mix through, then leave for 5 to 10 minutes. This will allow the oatmeal to completely absorb the water.

3. Preheat the oven to 180ºC, 350ºF. Line the baking tray (sheet) with baking (parchment) paper in readiness for use.

4. Using your hands, gently pull the mixture about to form a ball. Cover the rolling board with oatmeal flakes to help prevent sticking.

5. Move the oatmeal ball to the rolling board. Using a rolling pin, roll the mixture flat. The mixture should be about 3mm (1/8") thick. Keep adding oatmeal to prevent sticking.

6. Cut the oatcakes into rounds. Use a round biscuit (cookie) cutter or the base of a glass but try to get a size for the rounds of about 7.5 centimeter (3 in) (3") in diameter. Arrange the oatcakes on the baking tray (sheet).

7. Place the oatcakes in the oven to bake for 15 minutes. Turn the oatcakes over with a spatula or similar tool and bake them for another 5 minutes.

8. Remove from the oven. Cool on a wire cooling rack. Once cool, they're ready to serve with condiments or cheese.

9. Finished.

Question : How many calories does the whole dough contain please?

Answer : Using the method described above, the whole dough will contain 960 calories, with a total fat of 26.8 grams and 10.2 grams of saturated fat. However, this does not include the extra oatmeal used to roll out the oatcakes.

Question : Can I use oil instead of I'm out of butter?

Answer : Even though regular vegetable oils might work, it is not advisable. They are pro inflammatory and prone to oxidation. The basis of this explanation is based on the chemical structure of the oil molecules. Try using coconut oil, since it is more resistant to heat than regular vegetable oils.

Question : Can I use peanut butter if I want to?

Answer : Yes, of course you can!

Tips.

Store the oatcakes for up to a week in an airtight container. If the container is not airtight, they will become soft and aren't as enjoyable.

Wrapped in cellophane in a neat row with ribbons at each end, these make an excellent addition to a gourmet food basket.

Warnings : Wear oven mitts and be careful of the hot surfaces when turning over the oatcakes.

Januari 12, 2020

How to Make Healthier Breakfasts Using Quinoa

How to Make Healthier Breakfasts Using Quinoa.

Quinoa quickly become a very popular and nutritious whole grain. It's available in nearly every grocery store and many people now have access to this great, gluten-free whole grain. Although quinoa is considered a "whole grain," it's actually a seed. It's classified as a grain because it cooks and is eaten like a grain (like rice or couscous). Quinoa in particular, is very high in protein, fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals. In fact, it has about 5 g of fiber and 8 g of protein per cup. However, quinoa shouldn't only be eaten as a side dish at dinner. You can also use quinoa in your breakfast making it a very nutritious meal.

Method 1 Making Hot Quinoa Porridge for Breakfast.
1. Get out the right cooking equipment. Like oatmeal, quinoa can be made into a delicious and warm breakfast meal. You'll need to get out the right equipment to make warm quinoa porridge for breakfast.
Start by setting out a heavy-bottomed pot. While it is possible to microwave quinoa, cooking it on the stovetop like traditional oatmeal is done more commonly, particularly when you want to cook it to the consistency of porridge.
You will not need a pot with a lid to make quinoa porridge. You need to continually stir without the lid to get the proper consistency of this dish.
You'll also need to keep an eye on your quinoa and stir consistently as it cooks. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
2. Choose your mixing liquid. You'll need to choose what type of liquid you want to use to make your hot quinoa porridge. Depending on your diet, there are a variety of options to choose from.
Try regular milk. Whether you do skim or whole milk, adding milk to your warm quinoa can help make your porridge creamy and rich. Plus, it'll add a hit of calcium and protein.
If you don't want to use cow's milk, you can also do dairy substitutes. Try almond, soy or even rice milk if you'd like. They all work well in this recipe.
If you don't want to use any milk at all, you can also make your porridge with water. It won't add any creaminess to your porridge, but still gets it to the right consistency.
3. Whisk in spices and flavorings. Like oatmeal and other hot breakfast cereals, you can add a variety of different spices or flavorings to your quinoa porridge. Follow a recipe or consider adding your favorite flavors.
If you like you can add some extracts to your hot quinoa to add flavor. Try adding vanilla, almond or even coconut extract to your quinoa.
If you like a natural source of vanilla, consider cooking your quinoa with a split vanilla bean for flavor.
Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger or clove are also quite tasty in a warm quinoa porridge.
4. Add your sweetener. Quinoa is not naturally sweet. In fact, it can sometimes have a more savory or even slightly bitter flavor. If you're looking for a sweet porridge, you'll need to add a source of sweetness to your porridge.
If you want to add a natural sweetener that isn't as processed as white sugar, consider drizzling in some honey, agave syrup, molasses or maple syrup.
If you're watching your total calorie or sugar intake, you may opt for a no-calorie sweetener like sucralose or truvia.
You can also consider leaving out sweeteners altogether. If you make your porridge with milk and add spices or fruit, there might be enough natural sweetness for your tastes.
5. Consider balancing your quinoa breakfast with other toppings. Once your quinoa porridge is made, there are a lot of different toppings you can add on. Whether you like Chia seeds, nuts, dried fruit or fresh fruit, you can add an additional hit of nutrition with some toppings.
Try fresh fruit on your quinoa. You can add any type of fruit you'd like. Apples would go well with cinnamon and nutmeg or sliced peaches may go well with vanilla extract.
You can also add dried fruit to your porridge as well. It's little chewier and sometimes tart which can be a nice addition to your breakfast meal.
You can also add some healthy fats and protein by adding nuts to quinoa. Whether it's almonds, cashews or pistachios, these are other great toppings.

Method 2 Using Quinoa in Other Breakfast Recipes.
1. Make a quinoa granola. If you like a little crunch on your morning yogurt, consider making a quinoa granola. Using a high-protein grain like quinoa can boost the nutrition of a traditional granola recipe.
Start this recipe by preheating your oven to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa, 2 cups of nuts, 1 tablespoon of honey and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
In the microwave, melt 3 1/2 tablespoons of coconut oil together with 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Stir frequently until the liquids are completely combined. Pour immediately over the dry ingredients.
Pour the granola onto a rimmed baking sheet and press into an even layer. Bake for about 30 minutes. Half way through the baking process, stir the granola to ensure even browning. Allow to cool thoroughly and serve at room temperature.
2. Add cooked quinoa to a breakfast burrito. For a Mexican spin on your breakfast, make breakfast burritos. Adding quinoa will provide an additional source of protein and fiber to your burrito.
Start by scrambling 1 egg over medium heat in a nonstick skillet. Once cooked, place in a small bowl.
Add in 1/3 cup of cooked quinoa and 1/4 cup of thawed chopped frozen or baby spinach to your scrambled egg along with a generous sprinkling of shredded low-fat sharp cheddar cheese.
Place your burrito filling into the center of a 8" whole wheat tortilla. Roll up tightly and serve immediately or wrap in plastic wrap and stick in the freezer for another day.
3. Make a quinoa breakfast hash. If you're in the mood for a savory and filling breakfast, try making quinoa hash. Substitute quinoa for shredded potatoes in this tasty recipe.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add four strips of bacon (or skip this step if you don't eat meat or like bacon). Cook until the bacon is crunchy and the fat has rendered out. Remove bacon from pan and roughly chop.
To the still hot pan, add in 1 cup of cooked quinoa, 1/2 cup of diced peppers, 1/2 cup of diced onions and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about five to six minutes or until vegetables are soft and quinoa is heated through.
Turn up the heat slightly. Press the quinoa mixture down into the bottom of the pan. Allow to crisp up and brown for about one to two minutes. Serve immediately with eggs if you'd like.
An alternate recipe is to make a mixture of cooked quinoa, peeled and grated raw potato then add to eggs and spices to taste. Cook on a large skillet for about seven minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Bake quinoa muffins. If you're in a rush in the mornings, you can try making quinoa muffins ahead of time for a quick, protein and fiber filled breakfast. Freeze leftovers so you'll have a stock of these tasty muffins.
Start by preheating an oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of cooked quinoa, 1/2 cup of applesauce, 1 mashed banana, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 1/4 cup of honey. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Peel and roughly chop 1 apple or pear and stir into the quinoa mixture as well.
Fill each muffin tin to the top with the quinoa mixture. Bake for about 20 – 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for five minutes before enjoying.

Method 3 Purchasing and Using Quinoa.
1. Choose the type of quinoa. Quinoa is now available in most local supermarkets. You don't have to go to a specialty store or health foods store to find this nutritious grain.
When you're looking for quinoa, it will be found in the grain aisle along with rice, couscous and pasta.
There may be more than one type of quinoa available. You may see white, black, red or even tri-colored quinoa.
Of all the quinoa colors, white or tan quinoa has the lightest texture and it cooks up slightly fluffier than other types and has the most delicate taste. Black quinoa has a slight earthy flavor while the red quinoa has a richer taste and a bit chewier texture and nutty. These two take slightly longer to cook than the white quinoa.
If you're using quinoa in a breakfast recipe, especially if kids are eating it, you may want to stick with white as it's most similar in color to oats.
2. Purchase dry or pre-cooked quinoa. Most of the time, you'll be able to find uncooked quinoa in the grain aisle of the grocery store; however, some stores may have pre-cooked quinoa for you.
Quinoa only takes about 15 minutes to cook from scratch. If you can only find uncooked quinoa, that will work perfectly in many breakfast recipes. Plus its not hard to cook from scratch.
If you are lacking in time or are unsure of how to cook quinoa, some stores sell precooked quinoa. You might find this in the grain aisle, refrigerated section, on the salad bar or even in the frozen section.
Pre-cooked quinoa may be a little bit more convenient and make for a faster breakfast recipe.
3. Rinse quinoa before using. If you haven't cooked quinoa before, there is a little secret trick to make it correctly. You'll need to rinse it first before cooking it.
Quinoa has a coating on the outside of the seed that acts as a natural pest repellent. It's called saponin. This is a natural compound that tastes bitter and soapy if not removed from the quinoa.
Place quinoa in a fine mesh strainer or a sieve. Run it under cold water, stirring or shaking it to help get all the seeds washed thoroughly.
Transfer your washed quinoa directly to your pot or pan and begin to cook it.
Note that some boxed quinoa or quinoa mixes are already washed or rinsed. You do not need to repeat this step. Make sure to read the instructions on boxes or packages first.
4. Store cooked quinoa correctly. Many of the breakfast recipes that do use quinoa, call for cooked quinoa. Making it in advance can help cut down on an extra step and cooking time in the mornings.
Consider taking time on the weekend or a free weeknight to go ahead and cook up a batch of quinoa.
Make sure to review what recipes you'll be making for breakfast and note how much cooked quinoa you'll need for the week.
Dry quinoa usually doubles in volume after cooking. 1/2 cup of uncooked or dry quinoa results in about 1 cup of cooked quinoa.
Store quinoa in a airtight container in the refrigerator for about five to seven days. You can also store it in a freezer container for up to three months.
5. Finished.

Tips.

Quinoa is a great whole grain that can be used in a variety of breakfast recipes. Keep trying new recipes until you find something you like.
Quinoa can be used in most recipes that contain a grain — like oats. Just substitute in quinoa instead.
Quinoa can have a unique flavor that may take some getting used to. Trying different flavorings and seasonings until you find a combination you enjoy.

April 08, 2020

how to puff quinoa

How to Puff Quinoa.

Quinoa has long been a staple crop of the Andes region, but only recently made waves in the rest of the world. You may have cooked this protein-rich seed as though it were rice, but it's worth "puffing" it like popcorn as well. This is a quick, low-effort recipe — especially if the quinoa is pre-rinsed — that makes a good snack or topping.



Part 1 Rinsing the Quinoa (Optional).

1. Decide whether to rinse. All quinoa naturally produces bitter substances called saponins. Most companies treat the quinoa to remove most of the saponins before they reach the store, but there may still be a faint biter taste. Rinsing will remove this, but you'll have to wait at least half an hour for the seeds to dry.

If you decide not to rinse, skip down to the puffing instructions.

2. Rinse the quinoa in a bowl. Place the quinoa in a bowl. Fill it with cold water. If the quinoa still contains saponins, foam will form on the surface.

3. Pour the quinoa through a strainer. Empty the bowl into a fine mesh strainer. Hold it under cold running water to remove the foam.

4. Repeat until foam stops forming. Return the quinoa to a bowl so you can watch for foam, then rinse again. The quinoa is ready once no more foam forms on the surface, and the seeds all remain in the bottom of the bowl.

5. Set your oven to the lowest temperature. Set your oven to "warm" or to the lowest temperature setting. There's no need to wait for preheating — just continue to the next step.

6. Dry your quinoa in the oven. Spread out the wet quinoa on a dry baking tray. Check every ten minutes and stir to break up large clumps. Remove when completely dry. This usually takes thirty to sixty minutes.

To further reduce the risk of burning, leave the oven door ajar.

You can move on to the stovetop before the quinoa is completely dry. You'll just have to wait for the moisture to evaporate before the quinoa pops, which can take 10–30 minutes.



Part 2 Puffing the Quinoa.

1. Heat a heavy-bottomed sauce pan. To prevent a quinoa avalanche, this pan should either have a lid or be at least six inches (15 cm) deep. Heat the pan over medium heat.

2. Add oil (optional). Many people choose to pop their quinoa dry for health reasons. If you prefer a crisper puffed quinoa, cover the base of the pan with about 1 tbsp (15 mL) of oil. A neutral-flavored oil such as canola or safflower is a good choice.

3. Add a little quinoa to test the heat. Add a sprinkle of dry quinoa to the pan. If the pan is hot enough, the quinoa should pop within a few seconds. Quinoa does not expand nearly as much as popcorn kernels, but it will turn brown, jump in the air, and release a nutty aroma.

4. Cover the base of the pan with quinoa. Once the pan is hot enough, pour in quinoa in a single layer on the base of the pan.

5. Shake the pan until the popping slows. Shake constantly to even out the temperature and prevent stuck, burnt seeds. Remove from heat once popping starts to slow, usually after one to five minutes.

If you are using a pan with a lid, crack it a couple times to let steam escape. Do this on the side facing away from you to avoid steam and quinoa rocketing to your face.

You can continue cooking to make the quinoa browner, nuttier, and crunchier, but the quinoa will burn easily after this point.

6. Shake off heat until popping stops. As long as you don't smell burning, you can continue shaking the pan off heat for another minute or two. Pour the puffed quinoa onto a baking sheet to cool down once popping stops.



Part 3 Using the Puffed Quinoa.

1. Flavor to eat as a snack. Replace your popcorn with a bowlful of puffed quinoa, mixed with a little salt and pepper. Alternatively, add a dash of chile oil, or a sprinkle of your favorite dried herbs.

2. Add the quinoa to breakfast cereal. You've just made a healthier version of puffed rice cereals. Eat it with milk or add it to homemade granola (before or after baking).

3. Sprinkle over salad or vegetable dishes. Puffed quinoa adds a great crunchy texture to salads in place of nuts or croutons. It also works well with roasted or sautéed vegetables.

4. Use them in energy bars. Make protein-rich hiking snacks by combining puffed quinoa with nuts and other high-energy foods.

5. Mix puffed quinoa into cookie dough. Replace some of the oats in an oatmeal cookie, or add it to any cookie recipe for crunch and protein.

Februari 20, 2020

how to cook sago

How to Cook Sago.

Sago is an important food for the people of New Guinea, but this starchy treat is now sold throughout the world. Sago often comes in pearls that are cooked to make pastes, pancakes, or small balls. It works great in puddings and drinks. Boil normal sago to prepare it or soak big sago pearls throughout the day (for about 6 hours) so its ready in time for dinner. Mix sago with all kinds of fruits to create new variations of sago dishes.



Ingredients.

Sago.

1 cup (237 ml) uncooked sago pearls.

6 cups (1.4 L) water.

½ cup (118 ml) granulated white sugar.

Serves 5.



Big Sago.

5.3 oz (150 g) big sago pearls.

2.1 qt (2 L) water.

6.8 fl oz (200 ml) water.

Makes 1.3 lbs (600 g).



Mango-Sago Dessert.

2 cups (473 ml) of cooked sago (chilled).

¾ to 1 cup (177 to 237 ml) of pureed mangoes (chilled).

½ to ¾ cups of coconut cream (chilled).

Sugar (to taste).

Chopped fresh mangoes (optional).

Crushed ice (optional).

Serves 4 to 6..



Method 1 Boiling Sago.

1. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Measure out 6 cups (1.4 L) of water and pour it into a large pot. Place the pot on your stove top and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium.

2. Cook the sago over medium heat for 30 minutes. Pour 1 cup (237 ml) of sago into the boiling water. Cover the pot with a lid and set a timer for 30 minutes. Stir the pearls about once every 10 minutes.

3. Add sugar to the water and sago. Pour in a half cup (118 ml) of granulated white sugar into the pot and stir the contents thoroughly. Now you're ready to lid the pot and reset the timer for 20 minutes. Stir the pearls every 10 minutes.

If the water boils low, add more. The sago should be submerged in water at all times.

4. Turn off the heat, cool, and enjoy. After your 20 minute timer rings, turn off the heat. Rotate the pot to a cool burner. While keeping the pot lidded, allow it to cool until it reaches room temperature. Transfer the sago to serving bowls and enjoy.



Method 2 Soaking Big Sago.

1. Add sago to a large pot of boiling water. Pour 2.1 qt (2 L) of water into a large pot and place it on a burner of your stove. Set the burner to high and boil the water. Add 6.8 fl oz (200 ml) more water to the pot along with 5.3 oz (150 g) of big sago pearls.

2. Cook the sago on low heat, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Return the water to a boil after adding the sago, then reduce the heat to low. Keep the lid off the pot during this time and stir the sago occasionally with a slotted spoon.

3. Cover and soak the sago for 1 hour and 30 minutes. After the sago has cooked on low for 15 minutes, set the burner to high and return the water to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pot with a lid, and let the sago soak for one and a half hours.

Whenever boiling the sago, stir it occasionally with your slotted spoon to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Return the water to a boil and soak the sago for an hour and 30 minutes. You'll end up repeating this soaking process four times total. Set the burner to high, bring the water to a boil, turn off the heat, then cover and soak the sago for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Because the process of reheating and soaking the sago requires little attention, it helps to have other chores, errands, or activities planned.

When all is said and done, you'll have soaked the sago in this fashion for a grand total of 6 hours (or four total soaking periods each one and a half hours long).

5. Strain and rinse the sago, then serve it as desired. Place a colander in the sink and strain the water from the sago. When the water has drained, rinse the sago thoroughly under cool water to reduce starchiness. Now the sago is ready to eat.

Some kinds of sago may cook slower others. When ready to eat, the big sago will be translucent, with just a little bit of whiteness in the center.

You can keep soaking your sago as described until it is completely clear, with no white remaining, for a less chewy texture in the pearls.



Method 3 Making a Mango-Sago Dessert.

1. Combine the cooked sago and pureed mango in a mixing bowl. Pour the cooked sago and pureed mango into your mixing bowl. Use a utensil, like a wooden spoon, to mix these ingredients until they are evenly distributed.

2. Stir coconut cream into the sago and pureed mango. When the ingredients are evenly mixed, stir in the coconut cream. Mixing the coconut cream into the sago and pureed mango is the easiest way of making a big batch of this dessert.

To improve the presentation of this dessert, ladle the mixed sago and mango puree into serving bowls and drizzle coconut cream on top.

3. Add toppings, if desired, and enjoy. A few chunks of cut mango nested on top can also add a lot to the look of this dish. To accent its tropical features, you might want to add some coconut shavings. Experiment freely with toppings until you find your favorite combination.



Method 4 Trying Other Sago Dishes.

1. Whip up a sweet potato and sago dessert. This sweet, relatively healthy dessert can be made in less than 30 minutes. The pandan leaves used in this recipe will impart a flavor similar to vanilla to the dish, giving the boiled-soft sweet potatoes an almost candy like quality.

2. Try Asian style coconut sago. This version of sago is especially popular in Malaysia and Japan. If you’re a sushi fan, you may have even seen this dish before, as it’s a popular side with sushi. Sago pearls in a sweet cream served with fruit makes for a great summer treat.

3. Mix cold fruit in with chilled sago. Fresh fruit and sago go together like peas in a pod. The smooth texture of the sago complements the similar quality of most kinds of fruit. This is an excellent healthy snack for kids who are picky when it comes to fruit.

Traditionally, fruit like watermelon, honeydew, and mango are used in recipes like this, but adding other kinds, like grapes and berries, might make it even tastier.

4. Enjoy a hearty breakfast with flaked oatmeal and sago. This is a great breakfast meal that’s particularly easy if you’ve stored away some sago in simple syrup. Cook oatmeal as you would normally. When it’s done, stir as many sago pearls as you want and enjoy.

Be careful when adding sago pearls stored in simple syrup. Adding too many could result in your oatmeal becoming too sweet.

Mix in a few sliced bananas, a dash of vanilla extract, and a light sprinkling of nutmeg to create add some flavor to your sago oatmeal.



Warnings.

Whenever cooking, use caution. Improperly using kitchen tools or heat sources (like your stovetop), could result in harm or property damage.

Things You’ll Need.

Boiling Sago : Pot (medium to large sized), Timer, Wooden spoon (or similar stirring utensil).

Preparing Big Sago : Pot (large sized), Slotted spoon (or similar stirring utensil), Timer, Colander.

Mango-Sago Dessert : Mixing bowl (large sized), Serving bowls, Ladle, Wooden spoon (or similar stirring utensil).

Februari 29, 2020

How to Make Candied Yams

How to Make Candied Yams.

Candied yams are sweet and tender. Made with fresh yams, they're ideal for serving with holiday dishes or with your favorite baked or roasted meals. Candied yams are delicious on their own or with a classic topping like marshmallows or oatmeal crunch. This recipe makes four servings.

Ingredients.
3 pounds (1.36 kilograms) yams.
1 cup (200grams) brown sugar.
1 cup (225 grams) white sugar.
2 sticks butter, cubed.

Part 1 Prepping the Yams.
1. Scrub the yams. Use a vegetable brush to scrub the yams to remove dirt and roots. Rinse the yams under cool running water. Do not peel them yet; you will do that after you cook them. Because of this, it's important that the yams are clean.
Take a look at the yams to make sure they are fresh. Use a paring knife to slice off any bruised or black spots.
Leaving the peels on will help the yams cook evenly while keeping the flesh intact. If you'd prefer to peel the yams first, your candied yams will taste delicious but won't have a firm texture.
2. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Use a large pot big enough to fit all of the yams. Fill the pot with enough cold water to cover the yams by about an inch. Make sure the water is several inches from the rim of the pot, or it will bubble over as the yams cook.
3. Boil the yams until they are tender. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a full boil. Boil the yams for about 20 minutes, until you can easily poke into their centers with a fork. The yams should be tender, but not mushy.
4. Drain the water and keep the pot on hand. When the yams are ready, remove them from heat and drain the water from the pot. Keep the pot close by; you will be putting the yams back into the pot later on.
If you're in a hurry, transfer the yams to a cooking rack to cool off.
Otherwise, just keep the yams in the pot while you begin making the glaze.
5. Peel the yams. When the yams are cool enough to handle, remove the peels with your fingers. They should easily come off in strips. Try to keep the flesh of the yams intact as you peel. Keep going until all of the yams are peeled.
6. Slice the yams into discs. Set the yams on a cutting board. Use a paring knife to slice the yams into ¼ to ½ inch (0.64 to 1.27 centimeters) thick discs. The discs should all be the same thickness. The sizes of the discs will vary according to the shape of the yams which taper at the ends.
7. Place the sliced yams back into the pot. Keep the pot covered, so that the yams don't dry out or lose color. You will be mixing the glaze into the yams later.

Part 2 Glazing the Yams.
1. Heat the butter and sugar in a saucepan. Place the sticks of butter together with the sugar in a medium saucepan. Turn the burner on medium or medium low to melt the butter. The butter and sugar will cook together to create a glaze perfect for classic candied yams.
Cutting the butter into smaller cubes will help it melt faster.
2. Stir with a spoon or spatula until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Once the butter melts, the glaze will begin to bubble up and change texture. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves, but the glaze is still quite runny. Remove the glaze from heat when it is smooth and pourable.
If you overcook the glaze, it will caramelize and become hard. Remove it from heat before it begins to thicken.
You can keep the glaze from caramelizing by keeping the heat low and stirring constantly.
3. Pour the mixture over the yams and mix gently with a spoon. Be sure that the yams are coated evenly. Use a spoon to gently mix the yams and the glaze so that all the yam pieces get thoroughly coated.
Sweeten your yams to taste. You will have enough glaze to make very sweet, sticky candied yams. If you'd prefer, use only half of the glaze to keep the dish from being too sweet.
Don't overmix the yams and the glaze. The soft-cooked yams will fall apart if you stir too much.
4. Consider baking the yams in the oven for 20 minutes. Pre-heat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Once the oven reaches the right temperature, put the yams into a casserole dish, and bake them for 20 minutes. The glaze will caramelize on top of the yams, and give them a slightly crispy texture.
5. Transfer the yams to a serving dish. Pour the candied yams into a large bowl or onto a platter. Serve immediately, while the yams are still hot and steaming. If you'd like, serve the yams with a dish of extra glaze on the side.

Part 3 Trying Variations.
1. Bake the yams with a marshmallow topping. This classic Southern preparation is a hit at holiday parties. Adding marshmallows to candied yams makes them sweet enough to serve as dessert. Here's what to do:
Pour the candied yams into a baking dish.
Top the yams with a layer of mini marshmallows.
Place the baking dish in the oven. Broil until the marshmallows are melted and slightly brown on top, about three minutes.
Remove from the oven and serve.
2. Add oatmeal crunch topping. Oatmeal crunch provides a nice contrast to the soft sweetness of the yams. You bake the candied yams with a dry oatmeal topping that bakes up into a crispy crust. To make it, follow these steps.
Pour the candied yams into a baking dish.
Mix 1/2 cup (50 grams) oatmeal, 1/4 cup (50 grams) firmly packed brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons diced butter. Spread the topping evenly over the candied yams.
Bake the yams at 400°F (205°C) until the topping is crispy and brown, about 20 minutes. Remove the yams from the oven and serve hot.
3. Try a flavored glaze. If you don't want to mess with the texture of your candied pecans, you might be up for experimenting with the flavor. The sweet, sticky glaze provides a good opportunity to play with your favorite flavors. Try stirring in one of the following flavors after you remove the glaze from heat:
1 tablespoon bourbon, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or cloves, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
4. Add other mix-ins to your yams. Candied yams are great on their own, but you may want to spice them up a bit with some extra mix-ins. These add new textures and crunch to an otherwise soft, sweet dish. Try stirring in 1/2 to 1 cup (50 to 100 grams) of one of these mix-ins:
Dried cranberries, Toasted pecans, walnuts or almonds, Diced pineapple, Diced apple.

Tips.

If you don't like yams, or can't find them, try using sweet potatoes instead.

Warnings.
Use heat with care.
Take appropriate precautions when cutting or peeling the yams or butter.

Juni 29, 2020

Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies.

By : Samantha.

Chocolate Chip Cookies are a lunchbox favorite for good reason! This chocolate chip cookie recipe has been carefully crafted to be perfectly soft, perfectly chewy, and just all around perfectly delectable.

You’ll never need another chocolate chip cookie recipe again.

A Cookie Classic
I present to you… the PERFECT Chocolate Chip Cookie. Perfectly Soft.  Perfectly sweet.  Perfectly Chewy.  Perfectly Perfect.

Before we begin, let’s go over some of the details of the recipe that make these cookies ultimate.

To Get The BEST Chocolate Chip Cookies
Melted butter:  This makes cookies chewier (and gives them a much better flavor, as the melted butter infuses into every molecule of the cookie!). Make sure you let it cool as directed after melting, otherwise it’ll melt your sugar and your dough will be too runny to use.
Chill Time: This recipe requires a small chill time to keep the cookies from spreading too much — a small price to pay for perfect chocolate chip cookies!
Room temperature eggs: If you use cold eggs it can shock the butter you just melted and cause some of it to re-solidify.  This also keeps your ingredients from mixing as well as they should.
Brown sugar:  Brown sugar is made with molasses and has more moisture than white sugar.  Because of this, brown sugar lends itself to softer, chewier cookies, and so we use a higher ratio of brown to white here for perfectly textured cookies.
Cornstarch: Nearly all of my cookie recipes call for cornstarch (cornflour if you’re in the UK).  It makes these chocolate chip cookies extra chewy and soft and helps give the cookies a little lift that we lose by melting the butter.

Chocolate Chips for Cookies.

We prefer semi-sweet in these cookies but you can sub in your favorites or use a mixture of either dark or milk chocolate or even chocolate chunks!

To Make Ahead.
Like most cookie doughs, this dough can be frozen and baked at a later date. Simply scoop onto a parchment lined pan and freeze until solid. Once frozen, remove from the cookie sheet and place in a freezer bag.

To Bake Frozen Cookies: Defrost for an hour or two in the fridge and bake as directed. If the dough is very cold, you may need to add a minute or two of cook time.

To Avoid Flat Cookies.
If your cookies come out too flat, it’s likely the flour was under-measured.  Too thick, there’s too much flour.

Using cups and teaspoons is great and convenient, but it’s extremely easy to over or under-measure some of your ingredients, particularly the flour.

How to Measure Flour: The best way to measure flour for this recipe is to gently spoon it into a measuring cup and use a straight edge to remove the excess. Using a measuring cup to scoop up the flour — packs it in and can cause to overmeasure.)

So those are our favorite tips for soft, chewy, perfect chocolate chip cookies.

Our Favorite Cookie Recipes.
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies – Tender and chewy oat cookies.
Easy Triple Chocolate Cookies – Chocolate lover’s dream.
Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies – 3 ingredient shortcut recipe
Easy Sugar Cookies – Classic perfection.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – Soft and chewy with a hint of molasses.

Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

 PREP TIME15 minutes
COOK TIME11 minutes
TOTAL TIME26 minutes
 SERVINGS45 cookies

I’m pleased to introduce you to your new favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe! These chocolate chip cookies have been carefully crafted to be perfectly soft, perfectly chewy, and just all around perfectly delectable. You’ll never need another cookie recipe again!
Ingredients.

1 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled at least 10 minutes (226g).
1 ¼ cup brown sugar tightly packed (250g).
½ cup sugar (100g).
1 large egg + 1 yolks (room temperature preferred).*
1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (350g).
2 teaspoons cornstarch.
1 teaspoon baking soda.
¾ teaspoon salt.
1 ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips (plus additional for tops, optional) (300g + additional).

Instructions.

Combine melted butter and sugars in a large bowl. Stir very well.
Add egg and egg yolk, stir well.
Stir in vanilla extract. Set aside.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients -- stir well so that all the flour is absorbed.
Stir in chocolate chips.
Place dough in refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare cookie sheets by lining with parchment paper.
Scoop dough by rounded 1 ½ tablespoon onto prepared cookie sheets, placing at least 2" apart.
Bake for 11 minutes -- cookies may still seem slightly soft in the centers, that is OK, they will cook completely on the cookie sheets. Don't over-bake or your cookies will be too hard.
If desired, gently press additional chocolate chips into the tops of the warm cookies.
Allow to cool completely on cookie sheets.
Recipe Notes.
*You can quickly bring eggs to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm water for 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
NUTRITION INFORMATION.
Calories: 138, Carbohydrates: 17g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 14mg, Sodium: 67mg, Potassium: 58mg, Sugar: 10g, Vitamin A: 135IU, Calcium: 12mg, Iron: 0.9mg

Juli 26, 2020