The {Page-Turner-Cookbook} featuring
Virgin islands Is My Kitchen
Virgin islands Appetizers & Soups
Other Desserts influenced by American
Lemon bars
perfect white cake
Peach almond compote
Raspberry-apricot pie with hazelnut streusel topping
Peach and cream dessert
Wild blueberry flan
Cranberry eggnog cheesecake
Vanilla-pomegranate parfaits
liquid Measures
Weight & temperature Measures
non-liquid ingredients
Top 5 countries
Last Page
Other Appetizers & Soups influenced by American
Baked oysters with wild mushroom ragout
Asparagus with lime
Dips for endives
Napoleon of peekey toe crab and apple
Cheese wafers
Broiled crab meltaways
Virgin islands Main Dishes
Caribbean conch stew
Fish and fungi
Fried chicken
Other Main Dishes influenced by American Dips for endives Cheese wafers Broiled crab meltaways Napoleon of peekey toe crab and apple Asparagus with lime Baked oysters with wild mushroom ragout
Fish and fungi
Fried chicken
Other Main Dishes influenced by American Dips for endives Cheese wafers Broiled crab meltaways Napoleon of peekey toe crab and apple Asparagus with lime Baked oysters with wild mushroom ragout
Other Side Dishes influenced by American
Cauliflower melt
Crispy onion rings
Oven-cooked bacon
Vidalia onion fritters
Steamed broccoli
Baked acorn squash with chestnuts apples and leeks
Southern-style collard greens
Kale salad
Weight & temperature Measures
non-liquid ingredients
Top 5 countries
Last Page
Favorite Foods of the Virgin Islands
Fungi (pronounced fun-jee) is a kind of dumpling made from salted cornmeal mixed with water and shortening, and frequently, okra. It's generally served as a side-dish with fish or meat dishes.
Callaloo (or Kallaloo) is a soup or stew made from the leaves of the dasheen plant or some other green leafy plant such as taro leaves or spinach. It's usually flavored with things like okra, salted meats, hot and black pepper, fish, onions, and spices.
Johnnycake is a deep-fried bread or biscuit, sometimes made from unleavened dough. It's sometimes baked rather than fried, and may be eaten hot or cold.
Pates (pronounced patties) are pastries enclosing spiced meats, fish, and/or vegetables, then deep fried. They're one of the most common foods of the Virgin Islands as a light snack.
Roti is somewhat similar to a Pate. Originating in India, it's made with a light, fluffy dough wrapped around spiced or curried meats, chicken, or veggies.
Rice and Beans (sometimes called rice and peas). It's generally flavored with herbs and spices, and is one of the most popular foods of the Virgin Islands among local people. Flavored rice by itself (without the beans) is also popular, usually as a side-dish
Conch (pronounced conk) is a large mollusk often served in chowder or as fritters (strips battered and deep-fried, usually served with a sweet, spicy sauce). Conch needs tenderizing, so when you order it, don't be surprised if you hear pounding coming from the kitchen!
Salt Fish is dried, boneless, salted fish (usually cod) which is dense, firm, and meaty from the salting and drying. It can be served many different ways, including fried, in chowders, and in stew.
Curried Goat, Chicken, Oxtail, and Fish are all popular dishes. This is another preparation that has its roots in India.
Jerk is a kind of smokey, spicy barbecue treatment used on chicken, meats, and fish. It originated with the native Arawak tribe, and you'll find it throughout the West Indies.
Fungi (pronounced fun-jee) is a kind of dumpling made from salted cornmeal mixed with water and shortening, and frequently, okra. It's generally served as a side-dish with fish or meat dishes.
Callaloo (or Kallaloo) is a soup or stew made from the leaves of the dasheen plant or some other green leafy plant such as taro leaves or spinach. It's usually flavored with things like okra, salted meats, hot and black pepper, fish, onions, and spices.
Johnnycake is a deep-fried bread or biscuit, sometimes made from unleavened dough. It's sometimes baked rather than fried, and may be eaten hot or cold.
Pates (pronounced patties) are pastries enclosing spiced meats, fish, and/or vegetables, then deep fried. They're one of the most common foods of the Virgin Islands as a light snack.
Roti is somewhat similar to a Pate. Originating in India, it's made with a light, fluffy dough wrapped around spiced or curried meats, chicken, or veggies.
Rice and Beans (sometimes called rice and peas). It's generally flavored with herbs and spices, and is one of the most popular foods of the Virgin Islands among local people. Flavored rice by itself (without the beans) is also popular, usually as a side-dish
Conch (pronounced conk) is a large mollusk often served in chowder or as fritters (strips battered and deep-fried, usually served with a sweet, spicy sauce). Conch needs tenderizing, so when you order it, don't be surprised if you hear pounding coming from the kitchen!
Salt Fish is dried, boneless, salted fish (usually cod) which is dense, firm, and meaty from the salting and drying. It can be served many different ways, including fried, in chowders, and in stew.
Curried Goat, Chicken, Oxtail, and Fish are all popular dishes. This is another preparation that has its roots in India.
Jerk is a kind of smokey, spicy barbecue treatment used on chicken, meats, and fish. It originated with the native Arawak tribe, and you'll find it throughout the West Indies.
Appetizer Baked oysters with wild mushroom ragout 
Recipe courtesy John Besh for Food Network Magazine
Serves: 4
2 dozen oysters
For the Aioli:
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
For the Ragout:
1 cup diced thick-sliced hickory-smoked bacon
1 or 2 shallots, minced
1 cup wild mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
Leaves of 1 sprig fresh thyme
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
For the Oysters2 dozen oysters
For the Aioli:
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
For the Ragout:
1 cup diced thick-sliced hickory-smoked bacon
1 or 2 shallots, minced
1 cup wild mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
Leaves of 1 sprig fresh thyme
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Buy the oysters. When buying oysters, look for a tag with the harvest date and use them within a week of that date. Also, make sure the oysters are fresh and alive; the shells should be tightly closed or should close when tapped.
An hour before shucking, scrub the oysters with a stiff brush under cold running water to remove any grit. Set them aside to relax muscles in shell. They will open with more ease.
Shuck the oysters. Hold the oyster, curved-side down, in a towel on a cutting board. Insert an oyster knife between the shells at the narrow pointed end. (Use a real oyster knife-there is no substitute!) Press down firmly on the oyster to prevent slipping and twist the knife to pry the shells apart. Use the knife for leverage; do not use force. Cut the muscle that connects the oyster to the top shell with the knife, being careful not to pierce the meat. Remove the top shell. Slide your knife under the oyster to loosen it, keeping the meat and liquid in the shell. Use your knife to carefully scrape away any shards of shell.
Make the aioli. Blend the garlic, egg yolks, lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil with the motor running and process until thick. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the aioli to a bowl, then cover and refrigerate.
Prepare the ragout. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat, stirring, until crisp. Add the shallots and mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring. Add the garlic, cook 3 minutes, then add the butter and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the oysters. Preheat the broiler. Place the oysters, in their shells, in individual baking dishes or one large dish. (Put a crumpled sheet of foil underneath them to keep them steady, if necessary.) Top each with a spoonful of mushroom ragout.
Finish the dish. Top each oyster with a dollop of aeoli. Broil until the aeoli is golden, about 2 minutes, and serve immediately.
An hour before shucking, scrub the oysters with a stiff brush under cold running water to remove any grit. Set them aside to relax muscles in shell. They will open with more ease.
Shuck the oysters. Hold the oyster, curved-side down, in a towel on a cutting board. Insert an oyster knife between the shells at the narrow pointed end. (Use a real oyster knife-there is no substitute!) Press down firmly on the oyster to prevent slipping and twist the knife to pry the shells apart. Use the knife for leverage; do not use force. Cut the muscle that connects the oyster to the top shell with the knife, being careful not to pierce the meat. Remove the top shell. Slide your knife under the oyster to loosen it, keeping the meat and liquid in the shell. Use your knife to carefully scrape away any shards of shell.
Make the aioli. Blend the garlic, egg yolks, lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil with the motor running and process until thick. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the aioli to a bowl, then cover and refrigerate.
Prepare the ragout. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat, stirring, until crisp. Add the shallots and mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring. Add the garlic, cook 3 minutes, then add the butter and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the oysters. Preheat the broiler. Place the oysters, in their shells, in individual baking dishes or one large dish. (Put a crumpled sheet of foil underneath them to keep them steady, if necessary.) Top each with a spoonful of mushroom ragout.
Finish the dish. Top each oyster with a dollop of aeoli. Broil until the aeoli is golden, about 2 minutes, and serve immediately.
Appetizer Asparagus with lime
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:6 minutes
2 pounds asparagus trimmed 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon grated lime rind
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 teaspoons liquid honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
pinch pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons diced sweet red pepper
In large skillet, simmer asparagus in salted boiling water for 6 minutes or just until tender.
Drain on towels; transfer to platter.
Whisk oil, lime rind and juice, honey, salt and pepper; stir in mint and chives.
Drizzle over asparagus; garnish with red pepper.
From Canada Living Test Kitchen
Drain on towels; transfer to platter.
Whisk oil, lime rind and juice, honey, salt and pepper; stir in mint and chives.
Drizzle over asparagus; garnish with red pepper.
From Canada Living Test Kitchen
Appetizer Dips for endives
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
GUACAMOLE:2 ripe avocados
juice of one lemon
1/2 small red onion, diced
1 tomato, seeded and diced
salt to taste
hot pepper sauce to taste
Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.
BLUE CHEESE DIP:
1/2 pint sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup blue cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.
SALSA:
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 large clove garlic, peeled and chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2 large tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
1 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
juice of one lemon or lime
salt and pepper to taste
cilantro or parsley for garnish.
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
GUACAMOLE:
Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.
BLUE CHEESE DIP:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.
SALSA:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.
BLUE CHEESE DIP:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.
SALSA:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Appetizer Napoleon of peekey toe crab and apple
Recipe adapted from Le Bernadin, New York NY
Serves: 2
1 Granny Smith apple
1 vine-ripened tomato
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon thinly sliced fresh chives
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 tablespoons sour cream
2 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 tablespoons milk
freshly ground white pepper
For tuiles:
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
1/2 cup rice flour
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/3 cup egg whites (from about 3 large eggs)
1/4 cup heavy cream
Garnish:
julienne strips of tomato,
sliced fresh chives, and curry powder
Serves: 2
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
3/4 pound peeky-toe or jumbo lump crab meat 1 Granny Smith apple
1 vine-ripened tomato
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon thinly sliced fresh chives
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 tablespoons sour cream
2 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 tablespoons milk
freshly ground white pepper
For tuiles:
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
1/2 cup rice flour
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/3 cup egg whites (from about 3 large eggs)
1/4 cup heavy cream
Garnish:
julienne strips of tomato,
sliced fresh chives, and curry powder
Pick over crab meat to remove any bits of shell and cartilage and if using lump crab meat lightly shred.
Peel and core apple and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon.
Peel and seed tomato and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/3 cup. Reserve 1 tablespoon each diced apple and tomato for sauce and in a bowl combine crab meat, remaining diced apple and tomato, 1 tablespoon chives, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 1/2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder, tossing to combine well. Chill filling.
In a bowl whisk together milk and remaining tablespoons lemon juice, sour cream, and mayonnaise and stir in reserved diced apple and tomato, remaining teaspoon chives, 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, and white pepper and salt to taste. Chill sauce while making tuiles.
Make tuiles:
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan melt butter over moderate heat and cool slightly. In a bowl whisk together flours, sugar, salt, white pepper, and nutmeg and whisk in whites until just combined. Whisk in cream until just combined and whisk in butter until just combined. On a baking sheet spread 2 teaspoons batter in an arc shape. With a pastry brush spread batter into a 5-inch-long arc, about 1 1/2 inches wide.
Make 3 more arcs with some of remaining batter in same manner, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake tuiles in middle of oven until bubbly, crisp, and golden, 3 to 5 minutes.
Carefully transfer tuiles with a thin spatula to a rack to cool and make more tuiles in same manner. (There will be enough batter to make about 26 tuiles, more than you need for the napoleons; leftovers may be used as an hors d'oeuvre.)
Spoon 2 tablespoons filling onto a plate and top with a tuile. Make 2 more layers with 4 tablespoons filling and 2 tuiles. Make 3 more napoleons in same manner. Drizzle sauce around napoleons and garnish with tomato, chives, and curry powder.
Peel and core apple and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon.
Peel and seed tomato and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/3 cup. Reserve 1 tablespoon each diced apple and tomato for sauce and in a bowl combine crab meat, remaining diced apple and tomato, 1 tablespoon chives, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 1/2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder, tossing to combine well. Chill filling.
In a bowl whisk together milk and remaining tablespoons lemon juice, sour cream, and mayonnaise and stir in reserved diced apple and tomato, remaining teaspoon chives, 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, and white pepper and salt to taste. Chill sauce while making tuiles.
Make tuiles:
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan melt butter over moderate heat and cool slightly. In a bowl whisk together flours, sugar, salt, white pepper, and nutmeg and whisk in whites until just combined. Whisk in cream until just combined and whisk in butter until just combined. On a baking sheet spread 2 teaspoons batter in an arc shape. With a pastry brush spread batter into a 5-inch-long arc, about 1 1/2 inches wide.
Make 3 more arcs with some of remaining batter in same manner, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake tuiles in middle of oven until bubbly, crisp, and golden, 3 to 5 minutes.
Carefully transfer tuiles with a thin spatula to a rack to cool and make more tuiles in same manner. (There will be enough batter to make about 26 tuiles, more than you need for the napoleons; leftovers may be used as an hors d'oeuvre.)
Spoon 2 tablespoons filling onto a plate and top with a tuile. Make 2 more layers with 4 tablespoons filling and 2 tuiles. Make 3 more napoleons in same manner. Drizzle sauce around napoleons and garnish with tomato, chives, and curry powder.
Appetizer Cheese wafers
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
8 ounces grated cheddar cheese 4 ounces unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon Tabasco
1/4 teaspoon Aromat seasoning
1 cup flour
Preheat oven at 325 degrees. Process cheese with the flour. Add butter and spices and process until dough forms a ball. Scrape the side of bowl, and process for a few more seconds to blend.
Roll the dough into 2-inch thick cylinder. Wrap in wax paper. Chill. Slice into 1/4 -inch slices. Place on sheet pan lined with wax paper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until wafers are crisp. Cool on rack.
Note: I also roll cylinder in ground almond.
Roll the dough into 2-inch thick cylinder. Wrap in wax paper. Chill. Slice into 1/4 -inch slices. Place on sheet pan lined with wax paper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until wafers are crisp. Cool on rack.
Note: I also roll cylinder in ground almond.
Appetizer Broiled crab meltaways
Serves: 3
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
6 English muffins cut in halves7 ounces crabmeat
4 ounces butter
7 ounces old English sharp Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
Mix all ingredients well. Spread on English muffin halves. Chill or freeze for future use.
Broil until golden brown. Cut muffins into quarters. Muffin halves can also be served as a luncheon.
Broil until golden brown. Cut muffins into quarters. Muffin halves can also be served as a luncheon.
Main Caribbean conch stew
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:50 minutes
2 large conchs, cleaned1/2 large onion, diced
1 large tomato, diced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes
1 lime
1 1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp tomato paste
pepper sauce or red pepper flakes to taste
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground pepper
7 cups water
Tenderize the conch to 1/8-inch thickness, using a meat mallet.
Place the conch in a pot of water. The water should just cover the conch. Boil for 20-30 minutes.
In a large pot, add the oil and allow to heat up for a minute.
Add the flour and stir to make a roux. Let the roux simmer for about 5 minutes. Don't let the roux burn!
Add the tomatoes, onions, thyme, pepper sauce/red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Stir and let simmer for a minute or two.
Add the potatoes, tomato paste. Stir and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, take the conch out of the water and cut it into small chunks.
Add the water, conch and the juice of 1 lime to the large pot.
Cover the pot and simmer until the potatoes are done, about 30 minutes.
Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary.
Place the conch in a pot of water. The water should just cover the conch. Boil for 20-30 minutes.
In a large pot, add the oil and allow to heat up for a minute.
Add the flour and stir to make a roux. Let the roux simmer for about 5 minutes. Don't let the roux burn!
Add the tomatoes, onions, thyme, pepper sauce/red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Stir and let simmer for a minute or two.
Add the potatoes, tomato paste. Stir and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, take the conch out of the water and cut it into small chunks.
Add the water, conch and the juice of 1 lime to the large pot.
Cover the pot and simmer until the potatoes are done, about 30 minutes.
Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary.
Main Fish and fungi
Serves: 4
Preparation time:30 minutes
Cooking time:40 minutes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil1 large onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 habanero or Scotch bonnet pepper (or substitute other fresh hot peppers), minced
1 rib celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1¼ teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 cup canned crushed or puréed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup thickly sliced okra (fresh or frozen), cooked
2 limes, juiced
2 pounds boneless red snapper fillets
Heat oil in large sauté pan over medium heat. Add onion, peppers, celery, garlic, thyme and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook until tender and starting to brown, about 10 minutes. Add vinegar, tomatoes, tomato paste and ¼ cup water. Reduce heat to low, and cook 10 minutes. Add salt to taste. Reserve sauce.
To make fungi, bring 2 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt to boil. Whisking constantly, gradually add cornmeal in thin stream. Reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring frequently, until it holds its shape on a spoon but the cornmeal is tender, at least 15 minutes. Add more water if it becomes thick but the cornmeal is still tough. Add butter and okra. Add salt to taste.
In a wide saucepan, bring 8 cups water to boil. Add lime juice, and reduce heat to low. Add fish. Simmer 10 minutes, or until it flakes easily with fork. Drain well.
To serve, put 2 scoops fungi and a fish fillet on each plate. Spoon sauce over and around fish.
To make fungi, bring 2 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt to boil. Whisking constantly, gradually add cornmeal in thin stream. Reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring frequently, until it holds its shape on a spoon but the cornmeal is tender, at least 15 minutes. Add more water if it becomes thick but the cornmeal is still tough. Add butter and okra. Add salt to taste.
In a wide saucepan, bring 8 cups water to boil. Add lime juice, and reduce heat to low. Add fish. Simmer 10 minutes, or until it flakes easily with fork. Drain well.
To serve, put 2 scoops fungi and a fish fillet on each plate. Spoon sauce over and around fish.
Main Fried chicken
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:30 minutes
1 large (3 pounds) whole chicken, cut into eight pieces 2 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dry thyme
2 eggs
2 cups of milk
Canola oil for frying
Thoroughly wash the chicken pieces and reserve on paper towel to dry.
Combine the flour with half (half a teaspoon) of the salt and place in a large bowl and reserve.
Combine all remaining dry spices and herbs in a small bowl. Season chicken pieces and mix well.
In a separate bowl combine the two eggs with the milk and whisk. Dip the chicken in the milk and egg mixture and then into the flour.
Repeat and reserve the chicken pieces.
Using a deep fryer or a large cast iron pan with high sides, fill the pan until it is almost half filled with the oil.
Heat the pan over medium high.
Place 4 pieces of the chicken into the pan and let them cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Turn the chicken over and cook another 6 - 10 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Remove the chicken and reserve.
Fry the last four pieces of chicken in the same manner. Serve the chicken warm.
Combine the flour with half (half a teaspoon) of the salt and place in a large bowl and reserve.
Combine all remaining dry spices and herbs in a small bowl. Season chicken pieces and mix well.
In a separate bowl combine the two eggs with the milk and whisk. Dip the chicken in the milk and egg mixture and then into the flour.
Repeat and reserve the chicken pieces.
Using a deep fryer or a large cast iron pan with high sides, fill the pan until it is almost half filled with the oil.
Heat the pan over medium high.
Place 4 pieces of the chicken into the pan and let them cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Turn the chicken over and cook another 6 - 10 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Remove the chicken and reserve.
Fry the last four pieces of chicken in the same manner. Serve the chicken warm.
Main Dips for endives
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
GUACAMOLE:2 ripe avocados
juice of one lemon
1/2 small red onion, diced
1 tomato, seeded and diced
salt to taste
hot pepper sauce to taste
Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.
BLUE CHEESE DIP:
1/2 pint sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup blue cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.
SALSA:
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 large clove garlic, peeled and chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2 large tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
1 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
juice of one lemon or lime
salt and pepper to taste
cilantro or parsley for garnish.
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
GUACAMOLE:
Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.
BLUE CHEESE DIP:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.
SALSA:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.
BLUE CHEESE DIP:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.
SALSA:
In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Main Cheese wafers
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
8 ounces grated cheddar cheese 4 ounces unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon Tabasco
1/4 teaspoon Aromat seasoning
1 cup flour
Preheat oven at 325 degrees. Process cheese with the flour. Add butter and spices and process until dough forms a ball. Scrape the side of bowl, and process for a few more seconds to blend.
Roll the dough into 2-inch thick cylinder. Wrap in wax paper. Chill. Slice into 1/4 -inch slices. Place on sheet pan lined with wax paper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until wafers are crisp. Cool on rack.
Note: I also roll cylinder in ground almond.
Roll the dough into 2-inch thick cylinder. Wrap in wax paper. Chill. Slice into 1/4 -inch slices. Place on sheet pan lined with wax paper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until wafers are crisp. Cool on rack.
Note: I also roll cylinder in ground almond.
Main Broiled crab meltaways
Serves: 3
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
6 English muffins cut in halves7 ounces crabmeat
4 ounces butter
7 ounces old English sharp Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
Mix all ingredients well. Spread on English muffin halves. Chill or freeze for future use.
Broil until golden brown. Cut muffins into quarters. Muffin halves can also be served as a luncheon.
Broil until golden brown. Cut muffins into quarters. Muffin halves can also be served as a luncheon.
Main Napoleon of peekey toe crab and apple
Recipe adapted from Le Bernadin, New York NY
Serves: 2
1 Granny Smith apple
1 vine-ripened tomato
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon thinly sliced fresh chives
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 tablespoons sour cream
2 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 tablespoons milk
freshly ground white pepper
For tuiles:
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
1/2 cup rice flour
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/3 cup egg whites (from about 3 large eggs)
1/4 cup heavy cream
Garnish:
julienne strips of tomato,
sliced fresh chives, and curry powder
Serves: 2
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
3/4 pound peeky-toe or jumbo lump crab meat 1 Granny Smith apple
1 vine-ripened tomato
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon thinly sliced fresh chives
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 tablespoons sour cream
2 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 tablespoons milk
freshly ground white pepper
For tuiles:
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
1/2 cup rice flour
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/3 cup egg whites (from about 3 large eggs)
1/4 cup heavy cream
Garnish:
julienne strips of tomato,
sliced fresh chives, and curry powder
Pick over crab meat to remove any bits of shell and cartilage and if using lump crab meat lightly shred.
Peel and core apple and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon.
Peel and seed tomato and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/3 cup. Reserve 1 tablespoon each diced apple and tomato for sauce and in a bowl combine crab meat, remaining diced apple and tomato, 1 tablespoon chives, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 1/2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder, tossing to combine well. Chill filling.
In a bowl whisk together milk and remaining tablespoons lemon juice, sour cream, and mayonnaise and stir in reserved diced apple and tomato, remaining teaspoon chives, 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, and white pepper and salt to taste. Chill sauce while making tuiles.
Make tuiles:
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan melt butter over moderate heat and cool slightly. In a bowl whisk together flours, sugar, salt, white pepper, and nutmeg and whisk in whites until just combined. Whisk in cream until just combined and whisk in butter until just combined. On a baking sheet spread 2 teaspoons batter in an arc shape. With a pastry brush spread batter into a 5-inch-long arc, about 1 1/2 inches wide.
Make 3 more arcs with some of remaining batter in same manner, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake tuiles in middle of oven until bubbly, crisp, and golden, 3 to 5 minutes.
Carefully transfer tuiles with a thin spatula to a rack to cool and make more tuiles in same manner. (There will be enough batter to make about 26 tuiles, more than you need for the napoleons; leftovers may be used as an hors d'oeuvre.)
Spoon 2 tablespoons filling onto a plate and top with a tuile. Make 2 more layers with 4 tablespoons filling and 2 tuiles. Make 3 more napoleons in same manner. Drizzle sauce around napoleons and garnish with tomato, chives, and curry powder.
Peel and core apple and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon.
Peel and seed tomato and cut enough into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/3 cup. Reserve 1 tablespoon each diced apple and tomato for sauce and in a bowl combine crab meat, remaining diced apple and tomato, 1 tablespoon chives, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 1/2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder, tossing to combine well. Chill filling.
In a bowl whisk together milk and remaining tablespoons lemon juice, sour cream, and mayonnaise and stir in reserved diced apple and tomato, remaining teaspoon chives, 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, and white pepper and salt to taste. Chill sauce while making tuiles.
Make tuiles:
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan melt butter over moderate heat and cool slightly. In a bowl whisk together flours, sugar, salt, white pepper, and nutmeg and whisk in whites until just combined. Whisk in cream until just combined and whisk in butter until just combined. On a baking sheet spread 2 teaspoons batter in an arc shape. With a pastry brush spread batter into a 5-inch-long arc, about 1 1/2 inches wide.
Make 3 more arcs with some of remaining batter in same manner, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake tuiles in middle of oven until bubbly, crisp, and golden, 3 to 5 minutes.
Carefully transfer tuiles with a thin spatula to a rack to cool and make more tuiles in same manner. (There will be enough batter to make about 26 tuiles, more than you need for the napoleons; leftovers may be used as an hors d'oeuvre.)
Spoon 2 tablespoons filling onto a plate and top with a tuile. Make 2 more layers with 4 tablespoons filling and 2 tuiles. Make 3 more napoleons in same manner. Drizzle sauce around napoleons and garnish with tomato, chives, and curry powder.
Main Asparagus with lime
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:6 minutes
2 pounds asparagus trimmed 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon grated lime rind
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 teaspoons liquid honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
pinch pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons diced sweet red pepper
In large skillet, simmer asparagus in salted boiling water for 6 minutes or just until tender.
Drain on towels; transfer to platter.
Whisk oil, lime rind and juice, honey, salt and pepper; stir in mint and chives.
Drizzle over asparagus; garnish with red pepper.
From Canada Living Test Kitchen
Drain on towels; transfer to platter.
Whisk oil, lime rind and juice, honey, salt and pepper; stir in mint and chives.
Drizzle over asparagus; garnish with red pepper.
From Canada Living Test Kitchen
Main Baked oysters with wild mushroom ragout
Recipe courtesy John Besh for Food Network Magazine
Serves: 4
2 dozen oysters
For the Aioli:
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
For the Ragout:
1 cup diced thick-sliced hickory-smoked bacon
1 or 2 shallots, minced
1 cup wild mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
Leaves of 1 sprig fresh thyme
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
For the Oysters2 dozen oysters
For the Aioli:
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
For the Ragout:
1 cup diced thick-sliced hickory-smoked bacon
1 or 2 shallots, minced
1 cup wild mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
Leaves of 1 sprig fresh thyme
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Buy the oysters. When buying oysters, look for a tag with the harvest date and use them within a week of that date. Also, make sure the oysters are fresh and alive; the shells should be tightly closed or should close when tapped.
An hour before shucking, scrub the oysters with a stiff brush under cold running water to remove any grit. Set them aside to relax muscles in shell. They will open with more ease.
Shuck the oysters. Hold the oyster, curved-side down, in a towel on a cutting board. Insert an oyster knife between the shells at the narrow pointed end. (Use a real oyster knife-there is no substitute!) Press down firmly on the oyster to prevent slipping and twist the knife to pry the shells apart. Use the knife for leverage; do not use force. Cut the muscle that connects the oyster to the top shell with the knife, being careful not to pierce the meat. Remove the top shell. Slide your knife under the oyster to loosen it, keeping the meat and liquid in the shell. Use your knife to carefully scrape away any shards of shell.
Make the aioli. Blend the garlic, egg yolks, lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil with the motor running and process until thick. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the aioli to a bowl, then cover and refrigerate.
Prepare the ragout. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat, stirring, until crisp. Add the shallots and mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring. Add the garlic, cook 3 minutes, then add the butter and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the oysters. Preheat the broiler. Place the oysters, in their shells, in individual baking dishes or one large dish. (Put a crumpled sheet of foil underneath them to keep them steady, if necessary.) Top each with a spoonful of mushroom ragout.
Finish the dish. Top each oyster with a dollop of aeoli. Broil until the aeoli is golden, about 2 minutes, and serve immediately.
An hour before shucking, scrub the oysters with a stiff brush under cold running water to remove any grit. Set them aside to relax muscles in shell. They will open with more ease.
Shuck the oysters. Hold the oyster, curved-side down, in a towel on a cutting board. Insert an oyster knife between the shells at the narrow pointed end. (Use a real oyster knife-there is no substitute!) Press down firmly on the oyster to prevent slipping and twist the knife to pry the shells apart. Use the knife for leverage; do not use force. Cut the muscle that connects the oyster to the top shell with the knife, being careful not to pierce the meat. Remove the top shell. Slide your knife under the oyster to loosen it, keeping the meat and liquid in the shell. Use your knife to carefully scrape away any shards of shell.
Make the aioli. Blend the garlic, egg yolks, lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil with the motor running and process until thick. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the aioli to a bowl, then cover and refrigerate.
Prepare the ragout. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat, stirring, until crisp. Add the shallots and mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring. Add the garlic, cook 3 minutes, then add the butter and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the oysters. Preheat the broiler. Place the oysters, in their shells, in individual baking dishes or one large dish. (Put a crumpled sheet of foil underneath them to keep them steady, if necessary.) Top each with a spoonful of mushroom ragout.
Finish the dish. Top each oyster with a dollop of aeoli. Broil until the aeoli is golden, about 2 minutes, and serve immediately.
Side Dish Cauliflower melt
the cooking method of seasoning and baking provides a very nice vegetable dish that could accompany almost anything.
Serves: 4
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 Medium head of cauliflower, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slabs, possibly halved to make a total of 8 slabs
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1/4 cup shelled pistachios
4 ounces Comte or Manchego cheese, cut into 8 slices
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Serves: 4
Preparation time:20 minutes
Cooking time:1 hour
1/4 cup olive oil2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 Medium head of cauliflower, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slabs, possibly halved to make a total of 8 slabs
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1/4 cup shelled pistachios
4 ounces Comte or Manchego cheese, cut into 8 slices
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower slabs and toss to coat.
3. Arrange the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flip the slabs, and bake another 10 to 20 minutes, until softened and roasted. Set aside to cool but keep the oven on.
4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, soak the raisins in wine or water for 10 minutes. Drain.
5. In a small pan over medium-high heat, toast the pistachios, dry or with a little oil. Let cool on a paper towel, then chop coarsely.
6.Arrange the cauliflower in a baking dish. Sprinkle with pistachios and raisins and top with the cheese.
7. Bake until the cheese melts, 7 to 10 minutes.
8. Top with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower slabs and toss to coat.
3. Arrange the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flip the slabs, and bake another 10 to 20 minutes, until softened and roasted. Set aside to cool but keep the oven on.
4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, soak the raisins in wine or water for 10 minutes. Drain.
5. In a small pan over medium-high heat, toast the pistachios, dry or with a little oil. Let cool on a paper towel, then chop coarsely.
6.Arrange the cauliflower in a baking dish. Sprinkle with pistachios and raisins and top with the cheese.
7. Bake until the cheese melts, 7 to 10 minutes.
8. Top with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Side Dish Crispy onion rings
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
2 medium Spanish onions 1 cup milk or buttermilk
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon Spanish paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
a pinch cayenne
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
vegetable oil for deep-frying
Peel and cut the onions into 1/4-inch thick slices; separate into rings. In shallow bowl, stir together milk or buttermilk and ½ teaspoon of the salt; add onion rings and soak for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a bag, combine flour, remaining salt and pepper. Add onion rings in batches and shake to coat.
In deep-fryer or large saucepan, heat 2 inches oil to 375 degrees. Deep-fry rings, in batches without crowding for about 3 minutes or until golden brown.
Drain and keep warm on paper towel-lined baking dish in 250 degree oven
In a bag, combine flour, remaining salt and pepper. Add onion rings in batches and shake to coat.
In deep-fryer or large saucepan, heat 2 inches oil to 375 degrees. Deep-fry rings, in batches without crowding for about 3 minutes or until golden brown.
Drain and keep warm on paper towel-lined baking dish in 250 degree oven
Side Dish Oven-cooked bacon
The best way to cook bacon is in the oven on parchment paper because it allows for an easy cleanup. The bacon sits in its own rendered fat as it bakes, it cooks more quickly than if you cooked it on a rack. The fatty parts also get wonderfully crispy.
Serves: 4
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
1.Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make sure to cut a large-enough sheet of parchment paper so that there is overhang on all sides. Then fold the excess up so that the drippings don’t seep through any cracks.
Lay the bacon strips flat, making sure pieces do not overlap.
2. Bake until crisp and browned, 15 to 18 minutes, 24 minutes (thick-cut bacon), rotating the sheets once.
3. Transfer strips to a paper towel to drain.
Let the drippings cool slightly, lift up the parchment, and store the drippings into a container.
Serves: 4
Preparation time:5 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
1/2 sliced baconPreheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
1.Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make sure to cut a large-enough sheet of parchment paper so that there is overhang on all sides. Then fold the excess up so that the drippings don’t seep through any cracks.
Lay the bacon strips flat, making sure pieces do not overlap.
2. Bake until crisp and browned, 15 to 18 minutes, 24 minutes (thick-cut bacon), rotating the sheets once.
3. Transfer strips to a paper towel to drain.
Let the drippings cool slightly, lift up the parchment, and store the drippings into a container.
Side Dish Vidalia onion fritters
Serves: 5
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
1 cup flour 1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 teaspoon vinegar
4 dashes hot sauce
2 large Vidalia onion, peeled, halved, thinly sliced
Vegetable oil for frying .
Mix flour, baking powder, curry powder, and salt in a bowl.
Beat the liquids together. Pour over the dry ingredients and combine.
Add the sliced onions and mix well. Let stand for 1 hour.
In a deep skillet heat 3 to 4 inches of vegetable oil to 350 degrees over medium heat.
Drop the batter into the hot oil by tablespoonfuls, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook until browned on one side and turn.
When the fritters are deep golden brown all over, remove them and drain on paper towels. Break one open to test for doneness;
if underdone in the center, reduce the heat a bit, and fry another minute.
Repeat until all the batter is used up and serve immediately
Beat the liquids together. Pour over the dry ingredients and combine.
Add the sliced onions and mix well. Let stand for 1 hour.
In a deep skillet heat 3 to 4 inches of vegetable oil to 350 degrees over medium heat.
Drop the batter into the hot oil by tablespoonfuls, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook until browned on one side and turn.
When the fritters are deep golden brown all over, remove them and drain on paper towels. Break one open to test for doneness;
if underdone in the center, reduce the heat a bit, and fry another minute.
Repeat until all the batter is used up and serve immediately
Side Dish Steamed broccoli
Broccoli can be prepared ahead by this method. Refrigerated steamed broccoli can be reheated by tossing in a skillet on medium high with a scant amount of oil or butter, or by means of a brief session in the microwave. Steamed broccoli can also be served at room temperature or chilled and used in a salad.
Optional garnishes should be of a contrasting color: roasted sesame seeds, minced white parts of green onion, etc.
VARIATION: Sometimes I steam another vegetable along with the broccoli. Yellow onion, sliced thick, works particularly well. Carrot sticks, radish halves, daikon sticks, summer squash all work well. Cut the additional vegetable to pieces about the same size as the broccoli pieces, or smaller.
Recipe adapted from http://www.stephencooks.com/
Serves: 4
2 - 4 tablespoons fresh herbs (optional), minced (suggestions: tarragon, thyme, dill, basil, oregano)
2 green onions (optional), chopped
2 or3 cloves garlic, (optional), minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Balsamic vinegar to taste (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:5 minutes
1 medium bunch broccoli - about 9 ounces2 - 4 tablespoons fresh herbs (optional), minced (suggestions: tarragon, thyme, dill, basil, oregano)
2 green onions (optional), chopped
2 or3 cloves garlic, (optional), minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Balsamic vinegar to taste (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1. Trim broccoli: cut the last 1/4 inch from the end of the stalks and use a paring knife to trim any gnarly stumps or little branches from the stalks.
2. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the tough outer skin from the stalks, starting at the base of the flower and going to the end of the stalks. Some larger stalks have a fairly thick skin and may need two passes of the peeler. (You can tell when you got it all when the inner flesh of the stalk is exposed -- it has a softer wet-green look, with no fibers visible and a texture like a cut radish or potato.)
3. Cut the broccoli pieces crosswise into three pieces: the flower and two pieces of stalk about 2 1/2 - 3" long. Divide the flowers from each other as necessary and halve or quarter the stalk pieces lengthwise so that the pieces are all about the same size (for uniform cooking).
4. Place the broccoli in a steamer basket in a pan with about 3/4" of rapidly boiling water. Cover tightly and steam for 5 min.
5. Remove broccoli to a bowl. Add any of the optional ingredients you are using and toss with tongs briefly to mix.
6. Season to taste and allow to rest, partially covered, for a few minutes.
2. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the tough outer skin from the stalks, starting at the base of the flower and going to the end of the stalks. Some larger stalks have a fairly thick skin and may need two passes of the peeler. (You can tell when you got it all when the inner flesh of the stalk is exposed -- it has a softer wet-green look, with no fibers visible and a texture like a cut radish or potato.)
3. Cut the broccoli pieces crosswise into three pieces: the flower and two pieces of stalk about 2 1/2 - 3" long. Divide the flowers from each other as necessary and halve or quarter the stalk pieces lengthwise so that the pieces are all about the same size (for uniform cooking).
4. Place the broccoli in a steamer basket in a pan with about 3/4" of rapidly boiling water. Cover tightly and steam for 5 min.
5. Remove broccoli to a bowl. Add any of the optional ingredients you are using and toss with tongs briefly to mix.
6. Season to taste and allow to rest, partially covered, for a few minutes.
Side Dish Baked acorn squash with chestnuts apples and leeks
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:1 hour
4 halved, seeded Acorn Squash1 1/2 cups diced Celery
2 peeled, diced Granny Smith Apples
10 oz diced day-old Bread (crusts removed)
1/2 cup chopped Parsley
1/3 cup Vegetable Stock
3 tbsp Unsalted Butter
2 halved, sliced Leeks, white part
2 tsp fine chopped Thyme
7 oz cooked Chestnuts
1/3 cup Heavy Cream
3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper
Preheat the oven at 350 F and brush the cut sides of each squash using olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
Place cut sides of squash down on two baking sheets. Roast 25 minutes or until tender.
Melt butter and olive oil in a skillet. Add celery with leeks, salt and pepper, cooking on medium heat for about eight minutes, stirring now and then.
Add apples and thyme, cooking on medium high about five minutes, or until until the apples begin to soften.
Scrape the mixture into a bowl. Work in bread, parsley, stock, chestnuts, and cream, tossing to mix well; salt and pepper.
Turn the squash so cut sides face up. Fill the cavities with stuffing and bake 20 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
Place cut sides of squash down on two baking sheets. Roast 25 minutes or until tender.
Melt butter and olive oil in a skillet. Add celery with leeks, salt and pepper, cooking on medium heat for about eight minutes, stirring now and then.
Add apples and thyme, cooking on medium high about five minutes, or until until the apples begin to soften.
Scrape the mixture into a bowl. Work in bread, parsley, stock, chestnuts, and cream, tossing to mix well; salt and pepper.
Turn the squash so cut sides face up. Fill the cavities with stuffing and bake 20 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
Side Dish Southern-style collard greens
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:1 hour
1 tablespoon olive oil1 tablespoon butter
1/2 large onion, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 pound collard greens, chopped
3 cups vegetable stock
2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil and butter. Saute the onions until slightly softened, about 2 minutes, then add the red pepper flakes and garlic, cook another minute. Add collard greens and cook another minute. Add the vegetable stock, cover and bring to a simmer. Cook until greens are tender, about 40 minutes. Add tomatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Side Dish Kale salad
Kale is among the most nutrient-dense commonly eaten vegetables.
Serves: 4
juice of 1 lemon
3-4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, mashed
1 minced shallot
salt and pepper, to taste
hot red pepper flakes, to taste
2/3 cup grated Pecorino, Asiago or Parmesan
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
4-6 cups kale, loosely packed kale leaves juice of 1 lemon
3-4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, mashed
1 minced shallot
salt and pepper, to taste
hot red pepper flakes, to taste
2/3 cup grated Pecorino, Asiago or Parmesan
Wash and spin dry the kale leaves and chop finely.
Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, shallot, salt, pepper, and a generous pinch of hot red pepper flakes.
Pour over kale in serving bowl and toss well.
Add 2/3 of the cheese and toss again.
Let kale sit for at least 5 minutes. Toss again, and top with remaining cheese.
Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, shallot, salt, pepper, and a generous pinch of hot red pepper flakes.
Pour over kale in serving bowl and toss well.
Add 2/3 of the cheese and toss again.
Let kale sit for at least 5 minutes. Toss again, and top with remaining cheese.
Dessert Lemon bars
Serves: 12
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:55 minutes
For the crust: 1/2 pound unsalted butter at room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
For the filling:
6 extra-large eggs at room temperature
3 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons grated lemon zest (4 to 6 lemons)
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
For the crust, cream the butter and sugar until light in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Combine the flour and salt and, with the mixer on low, add to the butter until just mixed. Dump the dough onto a well-floured board and gather into a ball. Flatten the dough with floured hands and press it into a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking sheet, building up a 1/2-inch edge on all sides. Chill.
Bake the crust for 15 to 20 minutes, until very lightly browned. Let cool on a wire rack. Leave the oven on.
For the filling, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and flour. Pour over the crust and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the filling is set. Let cool to room temperature.
Cut into triangles and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
For the crust, cream the butter and sugar until light in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Combine the flour and salt and, with the mixer on low, add to the butter until just mixed. Dump the dough onto a well-floured board and gather into a ball. Flatten the dough with floured hands and press it into a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking sheet, building up a 1/2-inch edge on all sides. Chill.
Bake the crust for 15 to 20 minutes, until very lightly browned. Let cool on a wire rack. Leave the oven on.
For the filling, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and flour. Pour over the crust and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the filling is set. Let cool to room temperature.
Cut into triangles and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Dessert perfect white cake
Recipe can be doubled.
Bring all your ingredients to room temperature or even a little warm (eggs, milk, butter, ) to ensure your batter does not break or curdle.
Use a scale to weigh your ingredients for accuracy.
Serves: 8
7 oz (200g) sugar
3 large egg whites room temp
7 oz (200 g) All Purpose flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
5 oz milk room temp
1 oz vegetable oil
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:30 minutes
4 oz (125g) unsalted butter room temp7 oz (200g) sugar
3 large egg whites room temp
7 oz (200 g) All Purpose flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
5 oz milk room temp
1 oz vegetable oil
Preheat your oven to 335ºF. Cover the bottom of one 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Butter and flour bottom and sides of cake pan.
Combine milk, oil and extracts and set aside
Combine flour, baking powder and salt and set aside
Place butter in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment and cream until smooth. Sprinkle in sugar and then mix on high until light and white (about 5 minutes).
Add the egg whites at room temperature one at a time to the butter mixture while mixing on low and let fully combine after each addition before adding the next.
Add in 1/3 of the dry ingredients to the egg/butter mixture and mix on low until just combined. Then add in 1/2 of the liquids, then dry, then liquids and the rest of the dry.
Mix until just combined.
Add batter into prepared cake pan and bake at 335º F for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Let cool ten minutes then turn out cake onto a cooling rack. Wrap warm and place into the freezer to flash chill. This locks in the moisture. Once cool but not frozen you can then trim off the brown edges of the cake and frost as desired. Chill cake.
Combine milk, oil and extracts and set aside
Combine flour, baking powder and salt and set aside
Place butter in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment and cream until smooth. Sprinkle in sugar and then mix on high until light and white (about 5 minutes).
Add the egg whites at room temperature one at a time to the butter mixture while mixing on low and let fully combine after each addition before adding the next.
Add in 1/3 of the dry ingredients to the egg/butter mixture and mix on low until just combined. Then add in 1/2 of the liquids, then dry, then liquids and the rest of the dry.
Mix until just combined.
Add batter into prepared cake pan and bake at 335º F for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Let cool ten minutes then turn out cake onto a cooling rack. Wrap warm and place into the freezer to flash chill. This locks in the moisture. Once cool but not frozen you can then trim off the brown edges of the cake and frost as desired. Chill cake.
Dessert Peach almond compote
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
3 peaches1/4 cup apricot jam
1/4 cup black currant jelly
1/4 cup brandy
1/4 cup Amaretto
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 pint vanilla ice cream
3/4 cup toasted slivered almonds
Peel, core and halve peaches. Slice each half into 8 slices. Reserve. Combine jams in a large frying pan over low heat. Cook until jams are liquefied. Pour in brandy and Amaretto. Increase heat to medium and bring to a boil. Add peaches and stir together until peaches are tender and warmed through, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Cool. Place ice cream in serving dishes such as coupes or wine glasses and top with peaches, sauce and almonds.
Dessert Raspberry-apricot pie with hazelnut streusel topping
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:45 minutes
Streusel Topping: 1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup hazelnuts
1/4 cup packed, golden brown sugar
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
Filling:
1 1/2 pounds ripe apricots, halved, pitted, each cut into 4 wedges
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons flour
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 1/2 pint basket raspberries
A recipe of Never-fail-pie-crust
For Streusel Topping:
Position rack in lowest third of oven and preheat to 400 degrees.
Combine first 5 ingredients in processor. Blend using on/off turns until nuts are coarsely chopped. Add butter and cut in using on/off turns until mixture begins to clump together. Transfer streusel to bowl and refrigerate.
For Filling:
Combine apricots, sugar, flour and allspice in large bowl; toss to blend. Let stand until dry ingredients are moistened, about 25 minutes. Carefully fold in raspberries.
Roll out pie-crust disk on lightly floured surface to 12 1/2-inch round.
Transfer crust to 9-inch diameter glass pie dish. Trim dough overhang under; crimp edges decoratively.
Spoon filling into crust.
Place pie on baking sheet. Bake until filling begins to bubble at edges, about 45 minutes.
Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over pie. Cover crust edges with foil to prevent overbrowning.
Bake until crust and topping are golden and filling is bubbly in center, about 50 minutes.
Cool pie on rack at least 2 hours.
Position rack in lowest third of oven and preheat to 400 degrees.
Combine first 5 ingredients in processor. Blend using on/off turns until nuts are coarsely chopped. Add butter and cut in using on/off turns until mixture begins to clump together. Transfer streusel to bowl and refrigerate.
For Filling:
Combine apricots, sugar, flour and allspice in large bowl; toss to blend. Let stand until dry ingredients are moistened, about 25 minutes. Carefully fold in raspberries.
Roll out pie-crust disk on lightly floured surface to 12 1/2-inch round.
Transfer crust to 9-inch diameter glass pie dish. Trim dough overhang under; crimp edges decoratively.
Spoon filling into crust.
Place pie on baking sheet. Bake until filling begins to bubble at edges, about 45 minutes.
Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over pie. Cover crust edges with foil to prevent overbrowning.
Bake until crust and topping are golden and filling is bubbly in center, about 50 minutes.
Cool pie on rack at least 2 hours.
Dessert Peach and cream dessert
Serves: 10
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:5 minutes
Crust: 1/2 cup butter, melted
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup brown sugar
Add melted butter to crumbs and sugar. Reserve 1/2 cup.
Press into 9 by 13" pan.
Filling:
2 14-ounce cans sliced peaches (Reserve juice plus water to make 2 cups)
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
8-ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup whipping cream
Combine peaches, juice, water, sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan. Heat and stir until it thickens. Let cool. Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until fluffy.
Beat cream until stiff. Fold into cream cheese mixture. Spread half of mixture on prepared crust.
Spoon thickened peaches on top. Spread second half of cheese mixture over top. Sprinkle with reserved crumbs and chill.
Beat cream until stiff. Fold into cream cheese mixture. Spread half of mixture on prepared crust.
Spoon thickened peaches on top. Spread second half of cheese mixture over top. Sprinkle with reserved crumbs and chill.
Dessert Wild blueberry flan
Serves: 12
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:1 hour 20 minutes
1/2 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling:
5 cups wild fresh or frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons orange liqueur
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon rind
2 cups sour cream
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat butter and sugar until blended. Beat in egg and almond extract. In separate bowl combine flour, baking powder and salt; pour over batter and stir until blended. Pat over bottom and 2 inches up side of greased 10-inch springform pan. Set aside.
Filling:
Toss together blueberries, liqueur and lemon rind; scrape over crust. Whisk together sour cream, egg yolks, sugar and almond extract; scrape evenly over blueberries. Bake for 1 1/4 hours or until crust is golden and crisp. Let cool in pan on rack. Refrigerate for 4 hours or until chilled. Remove side of pan.
Cut into wedges to serve. For an added touch, pipe whipped cream over tart and decorate with thin candied orange strips and almond slivers
Beat butter and sugar until blended. Beat in egg and almond extract. In separate bowl combine flour, baking powder and salt; pour over batter and stir until blended. Pat over bottom and 2 inches up side of greased 10-inch springform pan. Set aside.
Filling:
Toss together blueberries, liqueur and lemon rind; scrape over crust. Whisk together sour cream, egg yolks, sugar and almond extract; scrape evenly over blueberries. Bake for 1 1/4 hours or until crust is golden and crisp. Let cool in pan on rack. Refrigerate for 4 hours or until chilled. Remove side of pan.
Cut into wedges to serve. For an added touch, pipe whipped cream over tart and decorate with thin candied orange strips and almond slivers
Dessert Cranberry eggnog cheesecake
Serves: 12
Preparation time: 35 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
1 1/2 cups fine vanilla wafer crumbs 3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter, melted
5 eggs
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup dark rum
1 envelop unflavored gelatin
3 8-ounce packages cream cheese (light or regular)
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup cranberry sauce
Combine crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar. Blend well with a fork. Stir in butter. Press evenly into bottom and partway up sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate.
Separate 3 eggs, placing whites into a clean large bowl and yolks in a small dish.
Pour orange juice and rum into a heavy bottomed saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over top. Let stand to soften, about 5 minutes.
Whisk in remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 2 whole eggs and 3 egg yolks.
Stir constantly over medium low heat until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens a little. Remove from heat. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
Beating at high speed, gradually add orange mixture, about ½ cup at a time, until smooth. Beat in vanilla and nutmeg. Beat remaining egg whites until they hold soft peaks.
Place egg whites on top of cheese mixture. Gently fold together, until no lumps of egg white remain.
Pour into chilled shell. Break up cranberry sauce. Dot sauce on surface of cheesecake, then swirl slightly by drawing knife in gentle circles through the sauce.
Refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours. Cheesecake will keep well for 2 days.
Separate 3 eggs, placing whites into a clean large bowl and yolks in a small dish.
Pour orange juice and rum into a heavy bottomed saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over top. Let stand to soften, about 5 minutes.
Whisk in remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 2 whole eggs and 3 egg yolks.
Stir constantly over medium low heat until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens a little. Remove from heat. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
Beating at high speed, gradually add orange mixture, about ½ cup at a time, until smooth. Beat in vanilla and nutmeg. Beat remaining egg whites until they hold soft peaks.
Place egg whites on top of cheese mixture. Gently fold together, until no lumps of egg white remain.
Pour into chilled shell. Break up cranberry sauce. Dot sauce on surface of cheesecake, then swirl slightly by drawing knife in gentle circles through the sauce.
Refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours. Cheesecake will keep well for 2 days.
Dessert Vanilla-pomegranate parfaits
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
POMEGRANATE COMPOTE2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 medium pomegranate (1 cup of seeds)
2/3 cup pomegranate juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
PUDDING
2 cups milk
1 vanilla bean, halved lengthwise, or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
1/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds for garnish
6 mint sprigs for garnish
To prepare compote:
Mix 2 tablespoons sugar with 2 teaspoons cornstarch in a small saucepan. Add pomegranate juice, lemon juice and 3/4 cup pomegranate seeds (save 1/4 cup for garnish) ; stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, until syrupy, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl. Refrigerate while you prepare the pudding.
To prepare pudding:
Combine milk in a medium heavy saucepan. Scrape in seeds from vanilla bean (or add vanilla extract). Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Remove from the heat, cover and let steep for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk egg, egg yolk, 1/3 cup sugar and 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch in a medium bowl. Reheat the milk mixture just until steaming. Carefully whisk one-third of the steaming milk into the egg mixture. Pour the egg-milk mixture back into the pan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until very thick, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in butter.
To prepare parfaits: Divide the pomegranate compote among six 6-ounce (1 cup) parfait glasses, ramekins or other small dessert cups). Spoon the pudding mixture over the compote. Cover and refrigerate until the pudding is well chilled, at least 3 hours.
To serve, garnish each parfait with pomegranate seeds and a mint sprig, if desired.
Mix 2 tablespoons sugar with 2 teaspoons cornstarch in a small saucepan. Add pomegranate juice, lemon juice and 3/4 cup pomegranate seeds (save 1/4 cup for garnish) ; stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, until syrupy, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl. Refrigerate while you prepare the pudding.
To prepare pudding:
Combine milk in a medium heavy saucepan. Scrape in seeds from vanilla bean (or add vanilla extract). Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Remove from the heat, cover and let steep for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk egg, egg yolk, 1/3 cup sugar and 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch in a medium bowl. Reheat the milk mixture just until steaming. Carefully whisk one-third of the steaming milk into the egg mixture. Pour the egg-milk mixture back into the pan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until very thick, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in butter.
To prepare parfaits: Divide the pomegranate compote among six 6-ounce (1 cup) parfait glasses, ramekins or other small dessert cups). Spoon the pudding mixture over the compote. Cover and refrigerate until the pudding is well chilled, at least 3 hours.
To serve, garnish each parfait with pomegranate seeds and a mint sprig, if desired.
conversion of liquids
Weights
Temperatures
Measures of non liquid ingredients
Non-liquid ingredients in volume converted
|
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ingredient |
1 cup |
3/4 cup |
2/3 cup |
1/2 cup |
1/3 cup |
1/4 cup |
2 tablespoons |
| All-purpose wheat flour | 120 g | 90 g | 80 g | 60 g | 40 g | 30 g | 15 g |
| All-purpose sifted wheat flour | 110 g | 80 g | 70 g | 55 g | 35 g | 27 g | 13 g |
| White sugar | 200 g | 150 g | 130 g | 100 g | 65 g | 50 g | 25 g |
| Powdered sugar/Icing sugar | 100 g | 75 g | 70 g | 50 g | 35 g | 25 g | 13 g |
| Brown sugar normally packed | 180 g | 135 g | 120 g | 90 g | 60 g | 45 g | 23 g |
| Corn flour | 160 g | 120 g | 100 g | 80 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| Cornstarch | 120 g | 90 g | 80 g | 60 g | 40 g | 30 g | 15 g |
| Rice (not-cooked) | 190 g | 140 g | 125 g | 95 g | 65 g | 48 g | 24 g |
| Macaroni (uncooked) | 140 g | 100 g | 90 g | 70 g | 45 g | 35 g | 17 g |
| Couscous (uncooked) | 180 g | 135 g | 120 g | 90 g | 60 g | 45 g | 22 g |
| Quick oatmeal (uncooked) | 90 g | 65 g | 60 g | 45 g | 30 g | 22 g | 11 g |
| Table salt | 300 g | 230 g | 200 g | 150 g | 100 g | 75 g | 40 g |
| Butter / Margarine | 240 g | 180 g | 160 g | 120 g | 80 g | 60 g | 30 g |
| Shortening | 190 g | 140 g | 125 g | 95 g | 65 g | 48 g | 24 g |
| Fruits and légumes chopped | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| chopped walnuts | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| Nuts /ground almonds | 120 g | 90 g | 80 g | 60 g | 40 g | 30 g | 15 g |
| Fresh bread crumbs (not packed) | 60 g | 45 g | 40 g | 30 g | 20 g | 15 g | 8 g |
| Dry bread crumbs | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 40 g | 20 g |
| Parmesan grated | 90 g | 65 g | 60 g | 45 g | 30 g | 22 g | 11 g |
| Chocolate chips | 150 g | 110 g | 100 g | 75 g | 50 g | 38 g | 19 g |
As the sun rises or sets in Virgin-Islands
"May every sunrise hold more promise, and every sunset hold more peace."
The {Page Turner} E-Cookbooks
Library on a world cooking journey
31 Recipes
6 Appetizers
9 Main dishes
8 Side dishes
8 Desserts