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Lemon Cheesecake Mousse
Ingredients:– For the mousse:– 1 cup cream cheese, softened– 1 cup heavy whipping cream– 1/2 cup powdered sugar– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)– Zest of 1 lemon– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract– For the garnish (optional):– Lemon zest– Fresh berries– Whipped cream### Instructions:1. Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and creamy.2. Whip the cream: In another bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to over-whip it.3. Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and fold carefully to maintain the light and airy texture.4. Chill the mousse: Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.5. Serve: Once chilled, you can garnish with additional lemon zest, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. -
Homemade No-Churn Ice Cream
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream (cold)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Whip the cold heavy cream in a large bowl using a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top.
Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Notes:
Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit before freezing for added flavor.
For a fun twist, swirl in caramel or chocolate sauce before freezing.
Enjoy this creamy, no-machine-required ice cream! -
Homemade Banana Split Milkshakes
Ingredients:
2 cups vanilla ice cream
1 cup whole milk
1 ripe banana
1 tablespoon chocolate syrup
1 tablespoon strawberry syrup
Whipped cream (for topping)
Chopped nuts, maraschino cherry, and sprinkles (optional garnish)
Directions:
Blend together the vanilla ice cream, milk, and banana until smooth.
Pour the milkshake into a tall glass.
Drizzle chocolate syrup and strawberry syrup on top.
Add whipped cream as a topping.
Garnish with chopped nuts, sprinkles, and a maraschino cherry for the classic banana split touch.
Notes:
Add a scoop of chocolate or strawberry ice cream for extra flavor.
For a richer shake, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Add crushed pineapple for an authentic banana split flavor. -
Homemade Chocolate Ganache Ice Cream
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream (for ganache)
Directions:
Heat ½ cup heavy cream until warm, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth to create the ganache. Let it cool.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for 25 minutes.
During the last 5 minutes, slowly drizzle in the cooled ganache to create swirls.
Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4 hours.
Notes:
For extra chocolate flavor, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the base mixture.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or chunks before serving.
Indulge in this rich and creamy chocolate delight! -
Spinach and Cheese Bake
Ingredients:
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- Spinach: 500g, washed and chopped
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
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- Red onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Eggs: 3, beaten
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- Milk: 120ml
- Flour: 150g
- Greek feta: 200g, crumbled
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- Mozzarella: 100g, grated
- Fresh parsley: chopped
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Optional: chili pepper, finely chopped
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
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- Preheat:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Preheat:
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Sauté:
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- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Prepare the Batter:
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- Mix Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the beaten eggs, milk, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Mix Batter:
Combine Ingredients:
- Combine:
- Stir in the cooled spinach mixture, feta, mozzarella, and fresh parsley. Add chili pepper if using.
Bake:
- Bake:
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- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until set and golden on top.
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Serve:
- Serve:
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- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
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Serving Suggestions:
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- Serve this bake as a main dish with a side salad or as a side dish with grilled meat or fish.
- Pair with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent the bake from becoming too watery.
- For extra flavor, add some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
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- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Feta cheese: Adds protein and calcium.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Dairy and Gluten: For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage:
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- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- It’s a versatile and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal.
- The combination of spinach and cheeses makes it both nutritious and delicious.
- The bake can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it great for meal prep and leftovers.
Conclusion:
This Spinach and Cheese Bake is a tasty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful recipe with your family and friends!
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Hearty Potato and Meat Pie with Vegetables
This hearty potato and meat pie is a delicious comfort dish packed with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and savory vegetables. It’s layered with cheese and eggs, creating a filling and flavorful pie that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Whether served as a main dish for dinner or a tasty addition to a brunch spread, this pie is both satisfying and easy to customize. The recipe includes a golden crust and a rich, savory interior that your family and friends will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Pie:
Olive oil: For sautéing and greasing
Potatoes: 3 large, peeled and thinly sliced
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Ground beef: 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
Celery stalks: 2, chopped
Onion: 1 large, chopped
Garlic cloves: 2, minced
Mushrooms: 150 g (5.3 oz), chopped
Salt: 1 tsp (for the filling)
Black pepper: 2/3 tsp (for the filling)
Paprika: 1 tsp
Eggs: 5, beaten
Cheese slices: 4, preferably cheddar or any melty cheese
Instructions:Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Slice the potatoes thinly and layer them on the bottom of the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, around 7-10 minutes.
Add the chopped celery and mushrooms to the beef mixture, cooking until the vegetables soften, about 5 more minutes.
Season the filling with 1 tsp of salt, 2/3 tsp of black pepper, and 1 tsp of paprika. Mix well, and cook until everything is fully combined and fragrant.
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Spread half of the cooked meat mixture evenly over the layer of potatoes in the baking dish.
Pour half of the beaten eggs over the meat mixture, allowing it to settle among the ingredients.
Add another layer of thinly sliced potatoes on top, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Spread the remaining meat mixture over the potato layer, and pour the remaining beaten eggs over the top.
Place the cheese slices on top of the filling, evenly spaced to cover the surface.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden, the cheese is melted, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
(Approximately based on 6 servings)Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Note: Nutrition facts may vary depending on the specific brands and portions used.Tips for Making the Perfect Potato and Meat Pie:
Slice Potatoes Evenly: Thin, even slices of potatoes ensure they cook evenly in the oven. Use a mandoline for precise, uniform slices if you have one.
Use Flavorful Cheese: Cheddar or Gouda will add a rich, sharp taste, but feel free to try other varieties like Swiss or pepper jack for a twist.
Pre-cook Potatoes for Extra Softness: If you prefer softer potatoes, consider parboiling them for 5 minutes before layering. This can speed up the baking time and ensure a softer texture.
Mix up the Meat: Ground beef works wonderfully, but you can substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or a combination of beef and pork for different flavors.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the pie cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the pie?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible. You could add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or grated carrots for extra nutrition and color.Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes will work well and add a slightly sweet, rich flavor. They may also cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them during baking.Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: You can use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute the olive oil for butter. The eggs can be replaced with a vegan egg substitute, though the texture will differ slightly.Q: Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free seasonings and cheese.Conclusion:
This hearty potato and meat pie with vegetables is a satisfying and savory meal that’s perfect for family dinners or make-ahead lunches. The combination of tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both nourishing and comforting. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this pie is an ideal go-to recipe that you can easily adapt based on the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy your homemade, heartwarming meal! -
This treat is next level and so easy to make! It never lasts long
Snickers fudge is a delightful treat that brings together the creamy, rich texture of fudge with the nutty, chocolatey goodness of a Snickers bar. It’s a perfect dessert for family gatherings or a sweet surprise for your kids after a long day at school. This recipe is a favorite in our small Midwestern town, especially during the holiday season when everyone craves something indulgent and comforting. Making this fudge is a wonderful way to bring a little joy to your kitchen, and it’s simple enough that you can even get the kids involved in the process.
Snickers fudge is quite rich, so it pairs well with a light, refreshing side like fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving it at a party, consider offering it alongside a platter of mixed nuts or a cheese board for a delightful contrast of flavors. A warm cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk also complements the sweetness of the fudge beautifully.
Snickers Fudge
Servings: 16
Ingredients
2 cups milk chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped peanuts
1 cup caramel sauce
1 cup mini marshmallows
DirectionsLine an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter over low heat.
Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Fold in the chopped peanuts and mini marshmallows.
Pour half of the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the fudge layer.
Pour the remaining fudge mixture over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top and use a knife to swirl it into the fudge.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
Variations & Tips
For a fun twist, try using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture. You can also substitute the milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. If you have a nut allergy in the family, consider using sunflower seeds or omitting the nuts altogether. For a festive touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before refrigerating to enhance the caramel flavor. -
you only need
It seems like you may want a more specific or simplified recipe for a baseless cream cake. Here’s a very basic version of that:
You only need:
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Sweetened condensed milk (1/4 cup) or powdered sugar (2-3 tablespoons)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Gelatin (1 tsp, optional, to help set the cream)
- Fresh fruit or toppings (optional)
Instructions:
- Whip the cream: In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with the sweetened condensed milk (or powdered sugar) and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Set with gelatin (optional): If you want it to be firmer, dissolve gelatin in a bit of warm water and mix it into the whipped cream.
- Pour into a mold: Transfer the whipped cream into a mold and smooth it out.
- Refrigerate: Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight until set.
- Serve: Top with fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or other decorations.
This simple recipe gives you a creamy, light dessert without a traditional cake base!
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A cup of hope and a huge amount of tasty food are prepared!
Making things with flour! Only ten minutes! Everything is ready, with a glass of yogurt and a stack of tasty food!
Do you crave flavor but don’t have any flour? A good option would be cider without flour. Created using simple design.
This dish is free of gluten, delicious, and can be prepared in less than ten minutes with just a few ingredients.
List of ingredients
– Dos huevos
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• A small amount of salt
Kefir, 250 ml
250 grams of wheat flour made from durum wheat.
• A spoonful of soda
• Fruit filling, like apples
• Oil for cooking in hot oil
Prepare yourself.
Begin by preparing the dough.
• In a bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla together using a whisk.
Add the kefir and mix it in.
Mix with baking soda.
Next, mix in the cheese and semolina.
Add the semolina to the dough little by little.
• Mix the cheese into the dough until it becomes soft.
3. Prepare the filling.
• Having too many apples (or other fruit)—having a large amount of apples.
Heat the apples with the sugar and melted butter for three to four minutes until the apples are soft and golden.
deep brown.
4. How to Make Crepes:
• Put the dough into a plastic bag.
• Put a little oil in the pan and heat it on medium heat.
Put small parts on the moving belt.
• Apples are in every circle.
To put more dust on top.
Cook in a pan until it turns golden brown.
Cover with oil and cook until it turns golden brown, flipping it once.
Prepare by opening carefully.
Tip: To make the dough softer, put in a teaspoon of cinnamon.
Swelling should not be made to seem bigger than it is; in reality, less is better.
• Use a spoon to scoop out a portion of the basket.
• Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the pan.
Question 1: Can other fruits be used instead? Definitely! Fruits such as strawberries, pears, or any other fruit you like will work.
Can kefir replace yogurt? Kefir adds a spicy flavor, but regular yogurt is just as good.
Flavor.
Can the batteries be prepared in advance? It is ideal for thin crusts and can be made ahead of time if desired.
Tiempo.
What is the top way to warm up leftover food? Just a short time in the oven or toaster oven will work.
Does this pancake mix contain gluten? Of course, because flour is not included.
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Cake in 5 minutes! Everyone is looking for this recipe! Cake that melts in your mouth! Lemon cake
Ingredients:
2 lemons
2 eggs
150 g of sugar
4 tablespoons corn starch
300 ml of milk
6 eggs
A pinch of salt
7 tablespoons of sugar
160 g of flour
120 g of butter
50 ml of milk
1 teaspoon icing sugar
Coconut flakes
White chocolateMethod:
Grate the zest of the lemons and squeeze the juice.
In a bowl, mix 2 eggs, 150 g of sugar, 4 tablespoons of corn starch and 300 ml of milk. Add the lemon juice. Cook until creamy and leave to cool.
In another bowl, separate the 6 eggs and whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt. Gradually add 7 tablespoons of sugar and the egg yolks one at a time. Gently incorporate the flour and grated lemon zest.
Pour the mixture into a 22 cm mold and cook in the oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes.
Once cooked, let the cake cool, then cut it into three parts.
Melt the butter in the milk and wet the cakes.
Place the cakes in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours.
Before serving, dust with icing sugar and decorate with coconut flakes and white chocolate. -
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients:• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs• 2 tablespoons olive oil• 1 teaspoon paprika• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder• Salt and black pepper, to taste• 1/4 cup honey• 2 tablespoons soy sauce• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)• 3 garlic cloves, minced• 1 teaspoon cornstarch• 2 tablespoons water• Cooked white rice (for serving)• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)Directions:Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, and minced garlic. Stir and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add it to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Serve the chicken over a bed of white rice, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):Calories 430Fat 12gCarbs 40gProtein 35gPrep time: 10 mins | Cooking time: 20 mins | Servings: 4 | Kcal: 430This Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken is sweet, savory, and has just the right kick! Perfect for a flavorful dinner.Enjoy!
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Paya Curry Recipe
Ingredients:1 kg goat trotters (paya)2 large onions, finely sliced2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped or blended1/2 cup yogurt (optional)2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste1/2 cup oil or ghee2 teaspoons red chili powder1 teaspoon turmeric powder2 teaspoons coriander powder1 teaspoon cumin powderSalt to taste1-2 cinnamon sticks2-3 green cardamoms4-5 cloves1 teaspoon black peppercorns1 bay leafFresh coriander leaves for garnishFresh ginger julienne for garnish2-3 green chilies, sliced (optional)Instructions:1. Clean the Paya:Wash the goat trotters thoroughly and boil them in water for about 10 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.2. Prepare the Masala Base:Heat oil or ghee in a large pot. Add cinnamon sticks, cardamom, cloves, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. Sauté until fragrant.Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown.3. Add Spices and Tomatoes:Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 2-3 minutes.Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Mix well and fry for a minute.Add chopped or blended tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil separates.4. Combine Paya with the Masala:Add the boiled goat trotters to the masala and mix well.If using yogurt, whisk it and add to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.5. Simmer:Add 5-6 cups of water to make a curry. Adjust water quantity based on your desired consistency.Season with salt, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally. For faster cooking, use a pressure cooker for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.6. Final Touch:Once the trotters are tender, adjust the seasoning.Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, ginger julienne, and green chilies.Serve:Serve the paya curry hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a hearty and flavorful meal.Tip: Slow cooking enhances the flavor of the curry, making it rich and delicious. -
Keto Garlic Flatbreads
Keto Garlic Flatbreads
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Butter or olive oil for brushing (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
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- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Preheat the Oven:
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- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, salt, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and optional dried herbs (oregano and basil).
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
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- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add the eggs and olive oil to the dry ingredients mixture. Stir until well combined and a dough forms.
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- Shape the Flatbreads:
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- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
- Place each portion of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Using your hands or a rolling pin, flatten each portion of dough into a thin, flatbread shape.
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- Bake:
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- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the flatbreads are cooked through.
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- Optional Garnish:
- Once baked, brush the flatbreads with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
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- Serve:
- Let the flatbreads cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy your Keto Garlic Flatbreads as a side dish or as a base for your favorite toppings!
- Serve:
Serving Suggestions:
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- Serve with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
- Use as a base for mini pizzas, topping with cheese, vegetables, and meats.
- Pair with soups or salads for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
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- Make sure to flatten the dough evenly to ensure even cooking.
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- For extra crispiness, you can bake the flatbreads a few minutes longer.
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Classic Pasta Casserole with COW Meat Sauce and Cheesy Béchamel
Classic Pasta Casserole with COW Meat Sauce and Cheesy Béchamel
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
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- 8 oz (250g) pasta
- A pinch of salt
For the COW Meat Sauce:
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- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
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- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 16 oz (450g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
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- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
For the Béchamel Sauce:
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- 2 oz (60g) butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 14 fl oz (400ml) milk
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- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 10 oz (300g) cheddar cheese, grated (reserve 3 oz/100g for topping)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a saucepan of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and 8 ounces (250g) of pasta.
- Cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
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- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
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- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Grate 2 cloves of garlic and add to the pan, cooking for another minute while stirring to avoid burning.
- Add 16 ounces (450g) of ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir until the meat is browned and no large chunks remain.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing it well with the beef and onions.
- Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of oregano. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes for the flavors to combine.
Make the Béchamel Sauce:
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- In a clean saucepan, melt 2 ounces (60g) of butter over medium heat.
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- Add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to cook the raw taste out of the flour.
- Slowly pour in 14 fluid ounces (400ml) of milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season the béchamel with ½ teaspoon of black pepper and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg.
- Once the sauce is smooth and thickened, remove from heat and stir in 7 ounces (200g) of the grated cheddar cheese, reserving the rest for topping.
See also CASTELLA CAKEAssemble the Casserole:
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- Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C).
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- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheesy béchamel sauce, mixing well to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Take a baking dish and layer the bottom with half of the cheesy pasta mixture, pressing down gently with a spatula to form an even layer.
- Add a layer of the meat sauce on top of the pasta.
- Repeat the layers, adding another layer of the cheesy pasta followed by the remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the reserved 3 ounces (100g) of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake the Casserole:
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- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
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- Serve with a fresh side salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.
- A light sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil will enhance the flavors when serving.
Cooking Tips:
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- Prevent Lumpy Béchamel: Constant whisking while adding milk ensures a smooth and lump-free béchamel sauce.
- Meat Substitute: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
- Extra Cheesy: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein-Rich: Ground beef and cheese provide a great source of protein.
- Calcium Boost: The cheddar and béchamel sauce deliver calcium essential for bone health.
- Comfort Food: This hearty dish is satisfying, providing energy with its balanced combination of carbs, fats, and proteins.
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Homemade Bread
Homemade Bread
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
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- 1 cup (240ml) Warm water (105°F / 40°C)
- 1 tablespoon (15g) Granulated sugar
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- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) Active dry yeast (about 8g)
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) Olive oil
- 3 cups (350g) All-purpose flour
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- 1 teaspoon (5g) Salt
- 1 tablespoon (15g) White sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon (15g) Black sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
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- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
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- Add Yeast Mixture: Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture.
- Knead Dough: Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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- Shape Bread:
- For loaves: Punch down the dough and divide in half. Shape each half into a loaf and place in two greased loaf pans.
- For rolls: Punch down the dough and divide into 12-15 pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Shape Bread:
- Second Rise: Cover the loaves or rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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- For loaves: Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190-200°F.
- For rolls: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
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- Cool: Let the bread or rolls cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions:
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- Serve warm with butter and jam.
- Enjoy with soups, stews, or salads.
- Use for sandwiches or toast.
Cooking Tips:
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- For enriched bread, add 2 tablespoons of melted butter to the dough.
- Add herbs like rosemary or oregano to the dough for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking for added texture.
- For softer bread, let it cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Benefits:
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- Good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Provides some protein and fiber.
- Contains B vitamins.
Dietary Information:
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- Vegetarian
- Can be made vegan by omitting honey (if used).
Nutritional Facts (per slice – approximate):
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- Calories: 70-80
- Protein: 2-3g
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