Category: quick and easy recipe

CASTELLA SPONGES CAKE RECIPE

Homemade Castella Sponge Cake, a delightful Japanese confection, has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the world. Originating from Portugal and introduced to Japan in the 16th century, this light and fluffy cake are a perfect balance of sweetness and simplicity. In this article, we’ll explore the secrets behind creating the perfect Homemade Castella Sponge Cake in your own kitchen.

A Quick, Delicious Recipe Anyone Can Master!

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen in just 10 minutes. With this quick and easy recipe, you can turn that dream into a reality. No fancy equipment or culinary expertise required – just a few simple ingredients and a desire for deliciousness. Let’s dive into the world of speedy bread-making and discover how you can satisfy your cravings in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 cups of flour (480 g)
• 1 cup of yogurt (220 g)
• 3/4 cup of water (200 ml)
• 1 pack of baking powder (10 g)
• 1 teaspoon of salt (8 g)
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (15 ml)
• Olive oil (3 1/2 tablespoons or 50 ml)

Directions

Mixing the Dough

Let’s kickstart the process by combining the yogurt, water, and baking powder in a kneading bowl. Mix them well until they form a smooth consistency.

Kneading to Perfection

Next, add the flour, salt, and vegetable oil gradually to the mixture, kneading it gently until a soft dough forms. Be mindful not to over-knead, as this can affect the texture of your bread.

Dividing and Rolling

Once the dough is ready, divide it into 10 equal pieces and cover them to prevent drying. Using a rolling pin, flatten each piece into rounds about the size of a dessert plate.

Cooking Without an Oven

Now, heat a pan over medium heat and cook the flattened dough rounds on both sides until they turn golden brown, without the need for any oil.

Finishing Touch

To enhance the flavor, spread a generous amount of butter on each cooked bread round before serving.

Serving Up Delicious

Voila! Your homemade bread is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it warm and watch as it disappears within moments, leaving behind nothing but satisfied smiles and empty plates.

Conclusion

• In just 10 minutes, you can transform basic ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will delight your senses and impress your friends and family. With this simple recipe, anyone can become a bread-making pro – no oven required! So why wait? Get creative in the kitchen and indulge in the joy of freshly baked bread today.

The Easiest Crispy Baklava Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 egg
• 1 cup (240 ml) oil
• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 1 tbsp yogurt (15 g)
• 1 tbsp butter (15 g)
• 2 tbsp vinegar (30 ml)
• 4.5 cups (540 g) flour
• Corn or wheat starch (for rolling)

For the  Filling:

• 300 g (10.5 oz) walnuts, finely chopped

For Greasing:

• 250 g (8.8 oz) clarified butter or plain butter

For the Syrup:

• 3.5 cups (700 g) sugar
• 4 cups (960 ml) water
• 1 slice of lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the egg, oil, water, milk, yogurt, butter, and vinegar. Mix everything together well using your hands or a spoon until it starts forming a dough.
Knead the Dough: Once the ingredients are well combined, knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and non-sticky. The dough should be soft and elastic.
Divide the Dough: Place the dough on a countertop and divide it into 15 equal-sized parts. Roll each portion into a ball.
Roll Out the Dough: Using starch, roll each dough ball into a thin circle, about the size of a cake plate. Stack each rolled piece on a starch-dusted tray, making sure to sprinkle starch between each layer to prevent sticking. Cover the stack with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Syrup

Combine Sugar and Water: In a medium-sized pot, combine the sugar and water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
Boil the Syrup: Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the syrup to a boil. Add a slice of lemon to the syrup, and let it boil for about 15 minutes. Once thickened, remove the syrup from the heat and set it aside to cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Baklava

Roll Out Thin Layers: After the dough has rested, begin rolling each dough ball out as thinly as possible using a rolling pin and starch. The thinner the dough, the crispier the baklava will be.
Layer with Walnuts: Place the first thin layer of dough onto your work surface. Sprinkle a layer of finely chopped walnuts on top. Repeat this process, layering dough and walnuts, until all the dough is used, finishing with a plain dough layer on top (no walnuts on the top layer).
Cut and Shape: Using a sharp knife, cut the layered dough into strips about three fingers wide. Fold each strip over itself once to form a triangle, then cut each triangle out and place them onto a baking tray.

Step 4: Bake the Baklava

Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the clarified butter (or plain butter). Pour the melted butter evenly over the arranged baklava triangles, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 170°C (350°F) and bake the baklava for 1 hour, or until it turns golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Add the Syrup

Rest and Add Syrup: Once the baklava is baked and golden, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. While it’s still hot, pour the cooled syrup over the baklava, making sure it is evenly distributed.
Serve: Let the baklava sit for at least 1 hour to absorb the syrup fully. The longer it rests, the better the syrup soaks in, enhancing the flavor and texture. Once it’s ready, serve the baklava and enjoy!

Notes

• Clarified Butter: Using clarified butter helps ensure the baklava is extra crispy, as it removes the milk solids that could burn during baking.
• Rolling Thin: Make sure to roll the dough as thinly as possible for the best, light, and flaky layers.
• Syrup Temperature: Always pour cooled syrup over hot baklava to ensure proper absorption and maximum crispiness.

Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon-Walnut Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Dough:
7 Tbsp (80g) sugar
1 tsp (4g) dry yeast
1 cup (250ml) lukewarm milk
1 egg
2 Tbsp vegetable oil
4 cups (500g) flour
1 tsp (4g) salt
Filling:
1/3 cup (80g) butter
1/2 cup (80g) sugar
Cinnamon to taste
1/2 cup (100g) crushed walnuts
Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 1/4 cups (300g) cream cheese
3 Tbsp milk
1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar

Directions
Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, mix 7 Tbsp sugar with 1 tsp dry yeast. Add 1 cup lukewarm milk and let it sit until frothy. Mix in 1 egg and 2 Tbsp vegetable oil. Gradually add 4 cups flour and 1 tsp salt. Knead until smooth, then let rise for 1-2 hours.
Prepare the Filling:

Melt 1/3 cup butter and mix with 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, and 1/2 cup crushed walnuts.
Shape and Bake:

Divide dough into 9 parts, roll, spread with filling, and shape. Let rise for 20 minutes. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Frosting:

Blend 1 1/4 cups cream cheese, 3 Tbsp milk, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth. Frost cooled baked goods.
Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
Great for breakfast or as a snack.
Top with extra crushed walnuts for added crunch.
Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced treat.

Cooking Tips
Ensure the milk is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.
Knead the dough well for a light, fluffy texture.
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
Frost only after the baked goods have cooled to avoid melting.

See also A Mother’s Homemade Garlic Elixir: A Soothing Solution for Everyday Ailments
Nutritional Benefits
Provides a good source of calcium from cream cheese.
Nuts add healthy fats and protein.
Includes whole grains if using whole wheat flour.
Sweetened naturally with sugar and not high in artificial ingredients.

Flaky Breakfast Bread
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
For the Dough:

4 cups baklava flour (480g)
1 teaspoon salt (8g)
2 glasses water (400ml)
For the Butter and Oil Mixture:

150g butter
1 tea glass oil (100ml)
Directions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the baklava flour and salt.
Gradually add the water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Butter and Oil Mixture:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

Add the oil to the melted butter and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
Roll Out the Dough:
Divide the dough into 4 equal parts.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each part into a thin circle or rectangle.
Layer and Fold:
Brush a generous amount of the butter and oil mixture over the surface of each rolled-out dough piece.

Fold each piece of dough into an envelope shape by folding the edges towards the center.
Cook the Bread:
Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Place one folded dough piece in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Repeat with the remaining dough pieces, adding more butter and oil mixture to the skillet as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt.
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a complete breakfast.
Enjoy with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
See also Hearty Beef Broth with Vegetables
Cooking Tips:
Ensure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a crispy and golden exterior.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the butter and oil mixture for a unique flavor twist.
Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness for the dough.
Nutritional Benefits:
Baklava Flour: Rich in fiber and nutrients, providing a healthy base for the bread.
Butter: Adds essential fats and flavor to the bread.
Oil: Helps achieve the perfect flaky texture.
Dietary Information:
This recipe is vegetarian.
Can be made with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.

Baked Chicken Wings with Spiced Potatoes

Ingredients:

• • Chicken wings 2 kg

  • Salt 1 tbsp

  • Black pepper 1 tsp

• • Paprika 1 tbsp

  • Dry garlic 1 tbsp

  • Vegetable oil 2 tbsp

For Potatoes:

• • Potatoes 5 pcs

  • Salt to taste

• • Black pepper to taste

  • Paprika to taste

  • Thyme to taste

• Coriander to taste

• Vegetable oil 2 tbsp

For Sauce:

• • Soy sauce 2 tbsp

  • Honey 1 tbsp

  • Apple cider vinegar 1 tsp

• Garlic 2 cloves, minced

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the Chicken Wings: In a large bowl, combine chicken wings with salt, black pepper, paprika, dry garlic, and vegetable oil. Mix well to ensure the wings are evenly coated.

1. 1. Bake the Chicken Wings: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the chicken wings on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes.

   2. Prepare the Sauce: While the wings are baking, mix together the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic in a small bowl.

   3. Apply the Sauce: After 25 minutes of baking, remove the wings from the oven and brush them generously with the prepared sauce. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C (428°F) and bake for an additional 10 minutes using convection mode for a crispy finish.

1. 1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, coriander, and vegetable oil until evenly coated.

   2. Bake the Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes on a baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 40 minutes. For an extra crispy texture, bake an additional 5-7 minutes in convection mode at the same temperature.

   3. Serve and Enjoy: Once both the wings and potatoes are done, serve them hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Kcal: 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

TIPS AND TRICKS

1. 1. Marinating Time: For even more flavorful wings, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat deeply.

1. 1. Crisping the Wings: For extra crispy wings, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

   2. Alternative Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika to give your wings a unique twist.

   3. Healthy Options: For a healthier version, you can bake the wings on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows excess fat to drip off, resulting in less greasy wings.

1. 1. Serving Suggestions: Serve these wings and potatoes with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.

   2. Potato Varieties: You can use different types of potatoes such as sweet potatoes or Yukon Golds for a different flavor and texture.

   3. Leftover Sauce: If you have leftover sauce, use it as a dip for the wings or as a marinade for another batch of chicken.

1. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

2. Garnishing: Garnish the wings and potatoes with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

3. Cooking in Advance: You can prepare the potatoes and season the wings in advance. When ready to eat, just bake everything according to the directions.

The Famous Cake That Drives You Crazy: A Grandmother’s Secret Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cream:

• 1 egg
• 50 g (1.7 oz) caster sugar
• 10 g (0.4 oz) vanilla sugar
• 15 g (0.5 oz) cornstarch
• 250 ml (1 cup) milk

For the Dough:

• 2 eggs
• 100 g (3.5 oz) caster sugar
• 1 pinch of salt
• 100 ml (3.5 fl oz) milk
• 50 ml (1.7 fl oz) sunflower oil
• 170 g (6 oz) flour
• 1 tsp baking powder (4 g)
• 50 g (1.7 oz) ground almonds
• 50 g (1.7 oz) almond flakes
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Cream

Creating the smooth, velvety cream is the first step in building this incredible dessert. This cream will not only infuse the cake with a luscious flavor but also keep it moist and delectable.

1. Whisk Together the Ingredients
   Start by cracking the egg into a medium-sized saucepan. Add the caster sugar, vanilla sugar, and cornstarch. Pour in the milk, and whisk the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. You want the mixture to be free of lumps, ensuring a silky texture for your cream.
2. Cook the Cream
   Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously with a whisk or spatula to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. As it heats, the cream will begin to thicken. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes, but be patient—it’s important to avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
3. Cool the Cream
   Once the cream has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, remove it from the heat. Pour the cream into a glass bowl, cover the surface with plastic wrap (to prevent a skin from forming), and let it cool to room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate the cream until needed.

Preparation of the Dough

The dough is light, fluffy, and enriched with almonds, adding a nutty richness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, smooth cream. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your dough is perfect.

1. Beat the Eggs and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, break the eggs and add the caster sugar and a pinch of salt. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the mixture on high speed for about 3–4 minutes. The mixture should turn pale, foamy, and increase in volume. This aeration is essential for a light and airy cake texture.
2. Add Milk and Oil
   Slowly pour the milk and sunflower oil into the egg mixture, continuing to mix on medium speed. Incorporate these liquids gradually to maintain the airy structure of the batter. The milk adds moisture, while the oil contributes to the cake’s tenderness.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients
   Sift the flour and baking powder directly into the wet mixture. This step helps avoid clumps in the batter and ensures even distribution of the baking powder. Add the ground almonds, and fold everything together gently using a silicone spatula. Mix just until the ingredients are well combined, being careful not to overmix.

Baking the Cake

With both your cream and dough prepared, it’s time to assemble and bake this delightful cake. This step is where the magic happens, as the cream melds with the dough to create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish
   Line a rectangular baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper. This prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and makes it easier to remove after baking.
2. Pour the Dough
   Pour the prepared dough into the lined baking dish, and spread it out evenly using a spatula. The batter should form a smooth, level layer.
3. Top with Almond Flakes
   Sprinkle the almond flakes evenly over the surface of the dough. These will add a lovely crunch and a toasted almond flavor, complementing the softer, ground almonds in the batter.
4. Add the Cream
   By now, your cream should be completely cool. Transfer it into a pastry bag fitted with a large tip. Pipe a mesh or grid pattern of cream over the surface of the dough, pressing lightly as you go to ensure the cream integrates with the cake during baking.
5. Bake the Cake
   Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Place the cake in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the cake in the final minutes to avoid overbaking.

Finishing Touches

Once the cake is baked to perfection, it’s time for the final touches that make this dessert truly special.

1. Cool and Transfer
   Remove the cake from the oven, and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully lift the cake out using the parchment paper and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Dust with Powdered Sugar
   Once the cake has cooled completely, dust the top with powdered sugar. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also enhances the cake’s visual appeal, giving it a delicate and inviting finish.
3. Serve and Enjoy
   Slice the cake into generous squares or rectangles. Each piece will reveal a beautiful contrast between the creamy filling and the tender almond cake. Serve immediately, or store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy it with coffee, tea, or as a stand-alone dessert!

Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 12 portions
• Calories per Serving: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 12 g
• Protein: 5 g

Chocolate-Covered Almond Cookies with Sesame Seeds Recipe

Ingredients 

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup ground almonds

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/3 cup sugar

1 egg

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

200 grams dark chocolate, melted

Sesame seeds for sprinkling

Instructions:

Make the Cookie Dough:

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

Gradually mix in the ground almonds, flour, and a pinch of salt until the dough comes together.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Shape the Cookies:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Roll the chilled dough into small balls, then flatten them slightly to form thick discs.

Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Cookies:

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they are just starting to turn golden around the edges.

Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Add the Chocolate and Sesame Seeds:

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.

Dip each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate, covering them halfway or completely, depending on your preference.

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the chocolate.

CROCANT HOMEMADE BREAD 

Ingredients:

400 ml of milk (warm)

12 g yeast (1 heaping tbsp)

1 tbsp sugar

30 g of melted butter

600 g of wheat flour

8 g of salt (1 tsp)

15 g of common wheat flour

Preparation:

1. In a container, place the warm milk, dry yeast, sugar and melted butter. Mix well.

2. Place the common wheat flour and salt, then mix well.

3. Knead until you get a soft and smooth dough.

4. Divide into two parts, then divide each part into 6. Shape the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes.

5. Make small cuts in the center. Brush with egg yolk and place optional butter.

6. Preheated oven at 200°C for 25 minutes.

NO FRYING OR FUSSING. Tastier than MEAT!

Are you ready to revolutionize your cooking routine? Say goodbye to frying and fussing and hello to a healthier, tastier alternative! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

ingredients to get started:

• 12 ounces (about 0.8 pounds) of carrots, potatoes, and zucchini
• 5.5 ounces of onions
• 3 eggs
• 2-3 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley)
• 3 tablespoons of ready-made breadcrumbs or 2 slices of bran bread

Preparation

• Wash and Peel: Clean and peel all vegetables (except garlic), then grate them on a coarse grater.
• Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
• Grease Baking Dish: Prepare a baking dish by greasing its bottom and walls with oil.

Breading

• Prepare Bread Crumbs: Blend 2 slices of bran bread into crumbs.
• Bake Crumbs: Spread crumbs on a baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius.

Mixing it up

• Combine Ingredients: Mix grated vegetables, breadcrumbs (or ready-made breadcrumbs), squeezed garlic, and finely chopped fresh herbs in a bowl.
• Beat Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat 3 eggs and season with salt, pepper, and oil.
• Mix Well: Combine the egg mixture with the vegetable mixture until smooth.

Baking the Dish

• Assemble: Spread the vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, compacting it slightly and leveling the top.
• Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 50 minutes or until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked, you can serve this dish hot or cold, as a main course or a side dish. It pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. Get creative with your toppings or sauces to enhance the flavor even more!

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Carrots, potatoes, and zucchini are rich in vitamins and minerals, while eggs provide protein. Plus, with no frying involved, you’ll save on unnecessary calories and fat.

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can swap out the vegetables for your favorites or add in extra ingredients like cheese or diced ham for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, locally sourced ingredients for the best flavor.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. Try adding different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
• Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, so why not make a double batch and save some for later? Simply reheat in the oven for a quick and easy meal.

ENJOY!