Author: Admin

Classic Cream Puffs with Caramel & Vanilla Cream
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Dough (Choux Pastry):
Water: 200 ml (¾ cup)
Purpose: Provides the liquid needed to create steam, which helps the dough rise in the oven.
Butter: 50g (1¾ oz)
Purpose: Adds richness and flavor to the dough, contributing to its tender texture.
All-Purpose Flour: 150g (1¼ cup)
Purpose: Forms the structure of the puffs, creating a light and airy texture.

Salt: A pinch
Purpose: Enhances the flavor and helps balance the sweetness.
Eggs: 4
Purpose: Provides moisture and structure, helping the dough to rise and hold its shape.
For the Caramel Cream:
Sugar: 4 tbsp
Purpose: Caramelizes to create a rich, golden caramel that adds a deep flavor to the cream.

Heavy Cream (for cooking): 150 ml (⅔ cup)
Purpose: Combines with the caramelized sugar to create a smooth, creamy texture.
Heavy Cream (for whipping): 300 ml (1¼ cups)
Purpose: Whipped to create a light and airy texture that blends beautifully with the caramel.
For the Vanilla Cream:
Milk: 400 ml (1⅔ cup)
Purpose: The base for the custard, providing a smooth and creamy consistency.

Vanilla Custard Powder or Cornstarch: 50g (⅓ cup)
Purpose: Thickens the milk to form a rich vanilla custard.
Sugar: 4 tbsp
Purpose: Sweetens the custard, balancing the flavors.
Heavy Cream: 300 ml (1¼ cups)
Purpose: Whipped to add a light and fluffy texture to the vanilla cream.

For the Caramel Frosting (optional):
Sugar: 125g (⅔ cup)
Purpose: Caramelizes to create a glossy, sweet frosting.
Butter: 45g (1½ oz)
Purpose: Adds richness and smoothness to the caramel frosting.
Heavy Cream: 75 ml (⅓ cup)
Purpose: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for the frosting.

Instructions
1. Make the Caramel Cream:
Caramelize the Sugar: In a medium saucepan, add 4 tablespoons of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar melts and turns a deep golden caramel color. This process requires patience—don’t rush it. The sugar will first clump up and then slowly melt. Be cautious as the caramel can quickly go from perfect to burnt.
Tip: Use a heat-resistant spatula and avoid stirring too vigorously to prevent crystallization.
Add Heavy Cream: Once the sugar is fully caramelized, carefully pour in 150 ml (⅔ cup) of heavy cream (for cooking). The mixture will bubble vigorously—be careful of splatters! Continue to whisk until the caramel and cream are fully combined and smooth.
Tip: If the caramel seizes up when adding the cream, gently heat and whisk until it returns to a smooth consistency.
Cool: Remove from heat and allow the caramel cream to cool completely. It will thicken slightly as it cools.
2. Make the Vanilla Cream:
Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together 400 ml (1⅔ cup) of milk, 50g (⅓ cup) of vanilla custard powder (or cornstarch), and 4 tablespoons of sugar. Whisk until smooth.
Tip: Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture before heating to ensure a smooth custard.
Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously whisk the mixture until it thickens and begins to bubble. This should take a few minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Tip: Stir the custard occasionally as it cools to prevent a skin from forming.

Prepare the Cream: Once the custard is cool, whip 300 ml (1¼ cups) of heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard until well combined and smooth.
3. Make the Choux Pastry Dough:
Prepare the Dough: In a medium saucepan, combine 200 ml (¾ cup) of water, 50g (1¾ oz) of butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Tip: The butter should melt completely before adding the flour.

Add Flour: Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and add 150g (1¼ cup) of all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Tip: Continue stirring for another 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough slightly. This step is crucial for achieving the proper texture.
Cool Slightly: Remove the pan from heat and let the dough cool for a few minutes until it is just warm to the touch.
Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should become thick and glossy. It’s important to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next.
Tip: The dough is ready when it forms a smooth, shiny consistency and falls from the spoon in a thick ribbon.
4. Assemble and Bake the Cream Puffs:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 230°C (446°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tip: Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve a good rise.
Pipe the Dough: Transfer the choux pastry dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each puff to allow for expansion.
Tip: For uniform puffs, pipe the dough in even sizes and avoid overfilling the piping bag.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes at 230°C (446°F). After 10 minutes, reduce the temperature to 200°C (392°F) and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crisp. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent collapsing.
Tip: The puffs are done when they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool: Allow the cream puffs to cool completely on a wire rack before filling.
5. Assemble the Cream Puffs:
Cut the Puffs: Once the puffs are completely cool, use a serrated knife to cut them in half horizontally. This will create a top and bottom for each puff.
Tip: If the puffs have any soft or soggy spots, discard or trim them before filling.
Fill with Caramel Cream: Whip 300 ml (1¼ cups) of heavy cream (for whipping) to stiff peaks. Gently fold the cooled caramel cream into the whipped cream mixture.
Tip: Be careful not to overmix—fold just until combined to keep the filling light and airy.
Fill the Puffs: Spoon or pipe the caramel cream mixture into the bottom half of each puff.
Top with Vanilla Cream: Spoon or pipe the vanilla cream on top of the caramel cream, then place the top halves of the puffs over the filling.
6. Make the Caramel Frosting (Optional):
Prepare Caramel: In a small saucepan, heat 125g (⅔ cup) of sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar melts and turns a deep caramel color.
Tip: Watch carefully as the sugar can quickly burn. If necessary, adjust the heat to ensure even melting.
Add Butter and Cream: Once the sugar is caramelized, carefully whisk in 45g (1½ oz) of butter and 75 ml (⅓ cup) of heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously—use caution!
Tip: Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth. Let it cool slightly before using.
Drizzle: Drizzle the caramel frosting over the top of the filled cream puffs for a sweet and glossy finish.
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store the cream puffs in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They are best enjoyed within 2 days of assembly to maintain the crispness of the pastry and the freshness of the cream.

Chicken & Vegetable Casserole with Mozzarella

Ingredients

For the Egg Mixture:

• • 4 large chicken eggs

• • ½ tsp salt
  • 125 ml (½ cup) milk
  • 113 g (4 oz) flour

• • 28 g (1 oz) spring onions, chopped
  • 28 g (1 oz) fresh dill, chopped
  • Black pepper to taste

• 85 g (3 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Vegetables & Chicken:

• • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

• • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 chicken fillet, diced
  • 1 sweet fresh pepper, chopped

• • 1 tsp salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp sweet paprika

• • 28 g (1 oz) olives, sliced
  • 2 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions

• • Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the zucchini, onion, pepper, and garlic. Grate the carrot.
  • Cook the Chicken & Vegetables: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken fillet, season with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, zucchini, and sweet pepper for 4-5 minutes until they soften slightly.

• • Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, black pepper, and milk. Gradually add the flour, mixing until smooth. Stir in chopped spring onions and dill.
  • Layer the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a casserole dish with olive oil. Spread the diced potatoes at the bottom, then add the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables. Pour the egg mixture over the top.
  • Bake: Bake the casserole for 30 minutes at 180°C (360°F) until the top is set and golden brown.

• Add Mozzarella & Final Toppings: Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, add sliced olives and halved cherry tomatoes. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve: Garnish with extra dill or spring onions if desired and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• • Pair with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for added texture.

Cooking Tips

• • For a more flavorful egg mixture, add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika.
  • You can substitute mozzarella with any melty cheese like cheddar or gouda.

• If you prefer crispier potatoes, pre-bake the diced potatoes for 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.

Nutritional Benefits

• • High Protein: Chicken and eggs provide a great source of protein, helping with muscle repair and overall health.
  • Rich in Fiber: The vegetables, especially zucchini and potatoes, are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion.

• Essential Vitamins: Zucchini, peppers, and carrots are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune health.

Dietary Information

• • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and increase the quantity of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

• Low Carb Option: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, makes 6 servings)

• • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 18 g

• • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Fat: 16 g

• Sugars: 4 g

Storage Tips

• • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Quick & Easy Orange Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

3 medium Eggs

150g of Sugar (3/4 Cups)

A pinch of salt

120 ml Sunflower oil (1/2 cup)

150 ml Orange juice (2/3 cup)

Orange zest

220g of Flour (2 cups)

15g Baking powder (1 tablespoon)

Apricot jam

Grated coconut

Equipment:

22 cm Mold

Oven preheated static 30-35 min at 180°C

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Make sure it’s static heat, not fan-forced.

Prepare Your Mold

Grease your 22 cm mold with a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easier removal later.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, crack open the eggs and whisk them together with sugar until they’re well combined and slightly frothy.

Add a pinch of salt for flavor enhancement.

Pour in the sunflower oil and orange juice, then mix everything together until smooth.

Add a pinch of salt for flavor enhancement.

Pour in the sunflower oil and orange juice, then mix everything together until smooth.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually sift the flour and baking powder into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.

Add Orange Zest

Grate the zest of an orange directly into the batter. This will infuse the cake with a delightful citrusy flavor and aroma. Mix it in evenly.

Pour Batter into Mold

Transfer the batter into the prepared mold, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Bake in Preheated Oven

Place the mold in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Garnish

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the mold for a few minutes.

Carefully transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, spread a thin layer of apricot jam on top for a glossy finish.

Sprinkle grated coconut generously over the jam for added texture and flavor.

Serve and Enjoy!

Slice the cake into portions and serve it up for a delightful treat. Enjoy the zesty, moist goodness of your homemade orange cake!

Delicious Milk Bread Recipe

If you have flour and milk, you’re in for a delightful treat that everyone will love! 

Ingredients:

• 300ml milk
• 10g dry yeast
• 20g granulated sugar
• 30ml vegetable oil
• 400g wheat flour (sifted)
• 5g salt
• 50ml melted butter
• 200g cheese
• 1 egg (for brushing
• Sesame seeds (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Warm the milk and mix it with dry yeast and sugar. Let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Add vegetable oil to the milk mixture.
3. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add salt. Mix well.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the flour and knead until the dough forms.
5. Cover and let it rest in a warm place for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes, knead the dough again and roll it out.
7. Melt 50ml of butter and brush it over the dough.
8. Roll the dough into a tube shape.
9. Cut it into several parts.
10. Cover and let them rest in a warm place for 10 minutes.
11. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds.
12. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and bake for 30 minutes.

 

Dinner of Just 200 Calories, Look How I Prepare It: There Isn’t Even a Slice Left

In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time and energy to cook a healthy and satisfying meal can be a challenge. However, with a little planning and creativity, it’s possible to whip up a delicious dinner that’s both low in calories and high in flavor. One such example is a mouthwatering dish that clocks in at just 200 calories per serving. Let’s dive into the details of this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients:

• Lean minced meat: Approximately 450g or 2 cups.
• Potatoes: 3 large potatoes, diced, which equates to roughly 3 cups.
• Light cheese: Around 150g or 1 1/2 cups grated.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, or about 2 teaspoons.
• Tomato sauce: 2 tablespoons, equivalent to approximately 1/8 cup.
• Onion: 1 onion, chopped, approximately 1 cup.
• Optional spices: Paprika, curry, and coriander, each at 1/2 teaspoon.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon.
• Extra virgin olive oil: 3-4 tablespoons, roughly 1/4 – 1/3 cup.
• Chopped rosemary: Enough to season.
• Aromatic herbs: To taste.

Step-by-Step Preparation Process

1. Preparing the Potatoes:
   • Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices.
   • Place them in a greased dripping pan, sprinkling the bottom with 50g of grated light cheese.
   • Brush the potatoes with olive oil, season with aromatic herbs, and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 20 minutes.
2. Cooking the Minced Meat:
   • In a non-stick pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil and add the chopped onion.
   • Brown the onion, then add the minced meat and minced garlic cloves.
   • Sear the meat, add tomato sauce, salt, and optional spices.
   • Flavor with chopped rosemary and cook until the minced meat is ready.
3. Assembling and Baking the Dish:
   • Pour the cooked minced meat over the baked potatoes, spreading it evenly.
   • Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top.
   • Bake in the oven for an additional 15 minutes at 200°C.

Nutritional Benefits of the Dish

Despite its low calorie count, this dinner packs a nutritional punch. Lean minced meat provides protein for muscle repair and satiety, while potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Additionally, the dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the inclusion of garlic, onion, and aromatic herbs.

Tips for Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap out the minced meat for a plant-based alternative to make it vegetarian or vegan-friendly. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, experimenting with different herbs and spices for added flavor depth.

How to Make It Vegan/Vegetarian

To make this dish vegan or vegetarian, simply substitute the lean minced meat with your favorite plant-based protein option, such as lentils, tofu, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also bulk up the dish with additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added fiber and nutrients.

Health Benefits of Using Lean Meat

Opting for lean minced meat in this recipe not only helps keep the calorie count low but also provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Lean meats are also lower in saturated fat compared to fattier cuts, making them a heart-healthy choice for dinner.

Creative Serving Ideas

Serve this flavorful dish with a side salad of mixed greens dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or roasted root vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Importance of Portion Control

While this dinner may be low in calories, it’s essential to practice portion control to maintain a balanced diet. Be mindful of serving sizes and avoid overeating, even if the meal is delicious and nutritious.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through before enjoying another tasty meal.

Believe It or Not: A Delicious Sugar-Free Apple Cake You’ll Love!

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• • 200 grams (7 ounces) rolled oats
  • 1 pinch of salt

• • 7 grams (0.25 ounces) baking powder
  • 2 apples
  • 10 ml (0.3 fl oz) lemon juice

• 1 egg
• Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

For the Filling:

• • 900 grams (32 ounces) apples (about 4-5 medium apples)
  • 15 ml (0.5 fl oz) lemon juice
  • Sweetener or honey, to taste

• • 7 grams (0.25 ounces) ground cinnamon
  • 60 grams (2 ounces) dried cranberries or raisins
  • 70 grams (2.5 ounces) walnuts, chopped

Instructions:

1. 1. Prepare the Crust: In a blender or food processor, grind the rolled oats into a fine, flour-like consistency.
   2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground oatmeal, salt, and baking powder.
   3. Peel, core, and grate the 2 apples. Toss the grated apples with the lemon juice to prevent browning.

1. Add the grated apples and egg to the dry ingredients in the bowl. Mix well until a thick batter forms.

Tips:

• • For a more rustic texture, you can pulse the oats in the blender a few times instead of grinding them into a fine powder.

• If you don’t have a blender or food processor, you can use a rolling pin to crush the oats in a sealed plastic bag.

5. 5. Preheat the Oven and Grease the Pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

       

5. 5. Assemble the Crust: Pour the oatmeal batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with your hands to form a compact crust.

   6. Prepare the Filling: Peel, core, and chop the remaining apples (about 900 grams) into bite-sized pieces.

       

   7. Cook the Apples: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped apples, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are softened and tender.

Tips:

• • If the apples start to stick to the pan, add a tablespoon or two of water and continue cooking.
  • For a sweeter filling, taste the apples after cooking and add your preferred sweetener or honey to taste.

9. 9. Incorporate the Dried Fruit and Nuts: While the apples are cooking, soak the dried cranberries or raisins in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes. Drain the soaked fruit before adding it to the apple mixture.

       

   10. Combine Filling and Crust: Once the apples are cooked and the dried fruit is drained, add the chopped walnuts to the apple mixture and stir to combine. Pour the apple filling over the oatmeal crust in the baking dish.

        

   11. Bake the Cake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

        

9. Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious sugar-free apple cake!

 Indulge in this heavenly Apple Pie with Soufflé Cream – a simple and incredibly tasty treat!

Apple Pie Dough (20 cm diameter):
– 250g Flour
– 1 tsp Baking Powder
– 90g Butter
– A pinch of Salt
– 2 Egg yolks
– 40g Sugar

 Apple Layer:
– 3 Apples (~500g)
– 40g Sugar
– 4-5 tbsp Lemon Juice

 Soufflé Cream:
– 2 Egg whites
– 40g Sugar
– 1 tsp Vanilla Sugar
– 400g Natural Yogurt (or sour cream)
– 30g Corn Starch

 Instructions:

1. For the dough, mix flour, baking powder, butter, a pinch of salt, egg yolks, and 40g of sugar until a smooth dough forms. Press into a 20 cm pie pan.
2. For the apple layer, slice the apples and mix them with 40g of sugar and lemon juice. Arrange them on the dough.
3. Bake at 170°C (338°F) for 40-45 minutes or until the apples are tender.
4. For the soufflé cream, beat 2 egg whites with 40g sugar and vanilla sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Mix natural yogurt (or sour cream) with cornstarch and gently fold in the beaten egg whites.
6. Spread the soufflé cream over the baked apple pie.
7. Chill and enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth dessert!