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luxembourg Is My Kitchen
LUXEMBOURG Appetizers & Soups
Desserts influenced by France
Baba au rum
Chocolate sauce
Trianon or Gâteau Royal
Easter bunny cake
Orange mousse meringues
Peach melba
Chocolate and raspberry fontaines
Warm chocolate torte
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non-liquid ingredients
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Artichoke pâté
Appetizers & Soups influenced by France Poached eggs florentine Artichoke pâté Artichokes vinaigrette Asparagus and tomato salad with feta Asparagus en croûte Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar Mussel and scallop soup Cheese croquettes
LUXEMBOURG Main Dishes
Appetizers & Soups influenced by France Poached eggs florentine Artichoke pâté Artichokes vinaigrette Asparagus and tomato salad with feta Asparagus en croûte Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar Mussel and scallop soup Cheese croquettes
Grilled pork chops with red onion marmalade
Stir-fried pork tenderloin
Main Dishes influenced by France Goat cheese gratin Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado Savory lollipops for cocktail Marinated goat cheese crostini Cheese croquettes Artichoke pâté Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar Mussel and scallop soup Asparagus with truffle broth Smoked salmon mousse
LUXEMBOURG Side Dishes
Stir-fried pork tenderloin
Main Dishes influenced by France Goat cheese gratin Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado Savory lollipops for cocktail Marinated goat cheese crostini Cheese croquettes Artichoke pâté Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar Mussel and scallop soup Asparagus with truffle broth Smoked salmon mousse
Potato crepes
Side Dishes influenced by France
Smoked salmon salad
Asparagus and tomato salad with feta
Tomatoes provencale
Asparagus with morels and tarragon
Creamy cauliflower purée
Berny potatoes
Asparagus sauce
Almondine potatoes
LUXEMBOURG Desserts
Weight & temperature Measures
non-liquid ingredients
Top 5 countries
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Luxembourg's cuisine reflects the country's position between the Latin and Germanic countries, influenced by the cuisines of neighbouring France, Belgium and Germany. Recently, it has been influenced by the country's few Italian and Portuguese immigrants. As in Germany most traditional, everyday Luxembourg dishes are of peasant origin
Appetizer Artichoke pâté 
Serves: 12
Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time:1 hour
5 ounces pork fatback 8 ounces boneless veal
8 ounces boneless pork
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1 1/2 cups cream
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mixed seasonings
1 teaspoon chopped basil
12 artichoke hearts
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons Brandy
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Diced ham
pastry dough
Sherry wine aspic
Dice and freeze fatback. Dice the veal and pork. Heat oil in skillet. Sauté the onions. Combine meat, onion, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix cream and egg whites. Pour over meat. Refrigerate for a few hours.
Marinate artichokes in wine, brandy. Season with salt and pepper. Puree the meat with fatback. Add the pistachios and ham.
Grease a 5 cup mold and line top and bottom with pastry dough. Alternate forcemeat and artichokes ending with forcemeat.
Cover pâté with pastry. Brush with egg yolk.
Cut an opening in the center.
Bake at 350 degree for about an hour. When cold, fill the pate with sherry wine aspic.
Marinate artichokes in wine, brandy. Season with salt and pepper. Puree the meat with fatback. Add the pistachios and ham.
Grease a 5 cup mold and line top and bottom with pastry dough. Alternate forcemeat and artichokes ending with forcemeat.
Cover pâté with pastry. Brush with egg yolk.
Cut an opening in the center.
Bake at 350 degree for about an hour. When cold, fill the pate with sherry wine aspic.
Appetizer Poached eggs florentine
Hollandaise may be substituted with cream sauce. Sprinkle with grated Swiss cheese and brown under broiler.
Serves: 6
1 cup medium-thick cream sauce
6 toasted muffin halves
6 artichoke bottoms, cooked
1 cup Hollandaise
6 poached eggs
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
10 ounces fresh or frozen spinach 1 cup medium-thick cream sauce
6 toasted muffin halves
6 artichoke bottoms, cooked
1 cup Hollandaise
6 poached eggs
Cook and drain spinach, pressing dry. Mix spinach with cream sauce. Spoon cream spinach over toasted muffins.
Place steamed artichoke bottoms on top of spinach. Top with the hot poached eggs. Spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over eggs.
Place steamed artichoke bottoms on top of spinach. Top with the hot poached eggs. Spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over eggs.
Appetizer Artichoke pâté
Serves: 12
Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time:1 hour
5 ounces pork fatback 8 ounces boneless veal
8 ounces boneless pork
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1 1/2 cups cream
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mixed seasonings
1 teaspoon chopped basil
12 artichoke hearts
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons Brandy
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Diced ham
pastry dough
Sherry wine aspic
Dice and freeze fatback. Dice the veal and pork. Heat oil in skillet. Sauté the onions. Combine meat, onion, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix cream and egg whites. Pour over meat. Refrigerate for a few hours.
Marinate artichokes in wine, brandy. Season with salt and pepper. Puree the meat with fatback. Add the pistachios and ham.
Grease a 5 cup mold and line top and bottom with pastry dough. Alternate forcemeat and artichokes ending with forcemeat.
Cover pâté with pastry. Brush with egg yolk.
Cut an opening in the center.
Bake at 350 degree for about an hour. When cold, fill the pate with sherry wine aspic.
Marinate artichokes in wine, brandy. Season with salt and pepper. Puree the meat with fatback. Add the pistachios and ham.
Grease a 5 cup mold and line top and bottom with pastry dough. Alternate forcemeat and artichokes ending with forcemeat.
Cover pâté with pastry. Brush with egg yolk.
Cut an opening in the center.
Bake at 350 degree for about an hour. When cold, fill the pate with sherry wine aspic.
Appetizer Artichokes vinaigrette
Serves: 6
1 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup salad oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon Tabasco
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
6 whole artichokes
Vinaigrette: makes 1 cup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons minced parsley and/or chopped fresh chives
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:35 minutes
1 gallon water 1 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup salad oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon Tabasco
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
6 whole artichokes
Vinaigrette: makes 1 cup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons minced parsley and/or chopped fresh chives
Bring water to a boil and add all ingredients except artichokes. Wash and trim the artichoke stems to 1 inch. Remove stems.
Add to water with spices, and boil for 25 to 35 minutes or until bottoms are tender. Remove from pan and invert artichokes to drain thoroughly and cool. Using spoon, remove chokes and discard.
Vinaigrette:
In a mixing bowl, whisk mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Slowly whisk in oil until mixture thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Stir the herbs. Whisk again just before serving.
Add to water with spices, and boil for 25 to 35 minutes or until bottoms are tender. Remove from pan and invert artichokes to drain thoroughly and cool. Using spoon, remove chokes and discard.
Vinaigrette:
In a mixing bowl, whisk mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Slowly whisk in oil until mixture thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Stir the herbs. Whisk again just before serving.
Appetizer Asparagus and tomato salad with feta
This Asparagus and Tomato Salad is easy to make with steamed asparagus, grape tomatoes, creamy feta, fresh herbs and a light dressing. The tarragon gives it a welcome hint of licorice. It can be eaten cold, warm or hot.
Asparagus is popular in the spring, especially around Easter and in the summer. It's peak season is April. This dish makes a great vegetable side dish and pairs perfectly with Easter.
Serves: 4
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp dried tarragon (use 1 tablespoon if using fresh)
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed - 2 bunches
3 green onions, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved (551 ml)
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
Asparagus is popular in the spring, especially around Easter and in the summer. It's peak season is April. This dish makes a great vegetable side dish and pairs perfectly with Easter.
Serves: 4
Preparation time:10 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp dried tarragon (use 1 tablespoon if using fresh)
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed - 2 bunches
3 green onions, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved (551 ml)
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
Snap off the woody ends of asparagus where they naturally break when you bend them or cut them off with a knife.
Boil water in a large pot or saucepan with steamer then reduce to simmer, add asparagus, cover with lid and steam asparagus until tender (about 8-10 minutes) *This will depend on your preference.
Use tongs to remove asparagus
In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, red wine, dijon mustard, salt and pepper together.
Cover and set aside until ready to use.
Arrange cooked asparagus tomatoes on a large platter.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
Drizzle with ½ the dressing and serve the remainder on the side *Can be served warm, room temperature or chilled.
????Variations & Substitutions
Tomatoes- you could use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes
Asparagus -you could use grilled or oven-roasted asparagus instead of steamed
Tarragon- fresh tarragon is ideal, but you can use dried
Feta cheese - you can use regular, light or fat-free feta or use goat cheese
Add-ins- you could also sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese and/or add red onions or green onion
Boil water in a large pot or saucepan with steamer then reduce to simmer, add asparagus, cover with lid and steam asparagus until tender (about 8-10 minutes) *This will depend on your preference.
Use tongs to remove asparagus
In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, red wine, dijon mustard, salt and pepper together.
Cover and set aside until ready to use.
Arrange cooked asparagus tomatoes on a large platter.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
Drizzle with ½ the dressing and serve the remainder on the side *Can be served warm, room temperature or chilled.
????Variations & Substitutions
Tomatoes- you could use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes
Asparagus -you could use grilled or oven-roasted asparagus instead of steamed
Tarragon- fresh tarragon is ideal, but you can use dried
Feta cheese - you can use regular, light or fat-free feta or use goat cheese
Add-ins- you could also sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese and/or add red onions or green onion
Appetizer Asparagus en croûte
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
1 pound puff pastry sheet, thawed 1/2 pound Swiss cheese
4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
12 asparagus spears, cooked crisp
1 egg, beaten
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Roll puff pastry sheet on a floured work surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-inch squares.
Cut cheese into fingers about the size of asparagus spears.
Spread each pastry dough evenly with mustard.
Lay an asparagus spear and a strip of cheese on each pastry square. Roll them up, seal and place seam side down on a buttered baking sheet. Brush rolls with beaten egg.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until pastry is brown and cheese is melted
Roll puff pastry sheet on a floured work surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-inch squares.
Cut cheese into fingers about the size of asparagus spears.
Spread each pastry dough evenly with mustard.
Lay an asparagus spear and a strip of cheese on each pastry square. Roll them up, seal and place seam side down on a buttered baking sheet. Brush rolls with beaten egg.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until pastry is brown and cheese is melted
Appetizer Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar
From Le Cabro d'Or, Les Baux-de-Provence, France
Serves: 4
2 lemons, halved
8 artichokes (about 9 to 12 ounces each)
24 baby carrots, greens trimmed
1/4 cup olive oil
24 cherry tomatoes, halved
12 ounces button mushrooms, halved
1 10-ounce package frozen baby peas, thawed
1 10-ounce package frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:40 minutes
3 ounces Parmesan cheese 2 lemons, halved
8 artichokes (about 9 to 12 ounces each)
24 baby carrots, greens trimmed
1/4 cup olive oil
24 cherry tomatoes, halved
12 ounces button mushrooms, halved
1 10-ounce package frozen baby peas, thawed
1 10-ounce package frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Using a vegetable peeler or a medium knife, cut Parmesan into thin shavings. Set aside.
Squeeze juice from lemons into large pot; add lemons.
Fill pot with water. Cut stem and top 1/3 from 1 artichoke. Starting at base, bend leaves back and snap off where they break naturally; continue until all tough outer leaves have been removed. Using small sharp knife, trim outside of base until smooth and no dark green areas remain.
Cut artichoke lengthwise into quarters. Cut out choke from quarters. Cut each quarter in half, making 1/2-inch wedges. Place artichoke pieces in lemon water. Repeat with remaining artichokes. Cover pot and bring to boil. Boil artichokes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Cook 24 baby carrots in large pot of boiling water 5 minutes. Drain carrots well. (Carrots can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté until tomatoes and mushrooms release juices, about 8 minutes. Add artichokes, carrots, baby peas and lima beans.
Cook until lima beans and peas are tender and juices thicken slightly, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add 1/4 cup butter and stir until melted. Season vegetables to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer ragout to large bowl. Toss with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan shavings.
Squeeze juice from lemons into large pot; add lemons.
Fill pot with water. Cut stem and top 1/3 from 1 artichoke. Starting at base, bend leaves back and snap off where they break naturally; continue until all tough outer leaves have been removed. Using small sharp knife, trim outside of base until smooth and no dark green areas remain.
Cut artichoke lengthwise into quarters. Cut out choke from quarters. Cut each quarter in half, making 1/2-inch wedges. Place artichoke pieces in lemon water. Repeat with remaining artichokes. Cover pot and bring to boil. Boil artichokes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Cook 24 baby carrots in large pot of boiling water 5 minutes. Drain carrots well. (Carrots can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté until tomatoes and mushrooms release juices, about 8 minutes. Add artichokes, carrots, baby peas and lima beans.
Cook until lima beans and peas are tender and juices thicken slightly, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add 1/4 cup butter and stir until melted. Season vegetables to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer ragout to large bowl. Toss with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan shavings.
Appetizer Mussel and scallop soup
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
2 pounds mussels 2 cups white wine
1 teaspoon shallots, chopped
1 teaspoon saffron
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons flour
1 cup cream
salt and white pepper to taste
8 ounces scallops
1 ounce butter
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Scrub mussels under cold running water. Heat wine in a large pot. Add mussels. Cover pot and steam for about 5 minutes, or until mussels are opened.
Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Save. Remove mussels from shells. Reserve for garnish.
In a medium saucepan, add mussel broth, shallots, onion, saffron, parsley and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Combine butter and flour to a paste.
Whip in the cooking liquid to thicken. Add cream and seasoning. Add mussels.
Saute scallops in butter and lemon juice until transparent. Dice the scallops and cooking liquid to soup together with mussels.
Heat soup and serve hot.
Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Save. Remove mussels from shells. Reserve for garnish.
In a medium saucepan, add mussel broth, shallots, onion, saffron, parsley and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Combine butter and flour to a paste.
Whip in the cooking liquid to thicken. Add cream and seasoning. Add mussels.
Saute scallops in butter and lemon juice until transparent. Dice the scallops and cooking liquid to soup together with mussels.
Heat soup and serve hot.
Appetizer Cheese croquettes
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
4 ounces butter 1 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
2 cups grated Swiss cheese
3 egg yolks
salt, nutmeg, onion powder to taste
1 cup flour
1 cup fresh bread crumbs
2 cups tomato sauce
2 cups fried parsley
In a medium saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour. Add milk and cream and whisk until sauce is thick and bubbly. Mix in the cheese. Blend well. Stir in egg yolks. Season to taste.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.
Main Grilled pork chops with red onion marmalade
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:40 minutes
6 center cut pork chops 1 cup apple cider
1 teaspoon salt
3 cloves minced garlic
1 sprig chopped thyme
1 sprig chopped rosemary
RED ONION MARMALADE:
(marmalade may be made up to 2 days ahead).
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
10 cups red onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
to taste salt and white pepper
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 1/4 cups red wine
combine apple cider, kosher salt, garlic, thyme and rosemary in a glass bowl. Add pork chops and mix well with marinade. Marinate for 30 minutes to one hour, refrigerated.
Remove chops from the marinade and pat dry.
Broil or cook pork chops on an open grill for approximately 10 minutes, turning as needed. Serve with red onion marmalade.
RED ONION MARMALADE:
(marmalade may be made up to 2 days ahead).
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
10 cups red onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
to taste salt and white pepper
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 1/4 cups red wine
Heat olive oil in a large heavy bottomed saucepan and add the onions. Cook over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 10 minutes, then add the brown sugar and stir to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, or bake in a 350 degree oven until the onions are golden soft and brown.
Add the vinegar and cook until it has completely evaporated, then add the red wine stirring the onions frequently to prevent sticking and burning. When the red wine has evaporated, taste and adjust the seasoning. Remove from heat and keep warm
Remove chops from the marinade and pat dry.
Broil or cook pork chops on an open grill for approximately 10 minutes, turning as needed. Serve with red onion marmalade.
RED ONION MARMALADE:
(marmalade may be made up to 2 days ahead).
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
10 cups red onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
to taste salt and white pepper
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 1/4 cups red wine
Heat olive oil in a large heavy bottomed saucepan and add the onions. Cook over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 10 minutes, then add the brown sugar and stir to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, or bake in a 350 degree oven until the onions are golden soft and brown.
Add the vinegar and cook until it has completely evaporated, then add the red wine stirring the onions frequently to prevent sticking and burning. When the red wine has evaporated, taste and adjust the seasoning. Remove from heat and keep warm
Main Stir-fried pork tenderloin
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
2 carrots 8 slices peeled ginger, 1/8-inch thick
1/2 pound snow peas
2 scallions
2 pounds pork tenderloin
1/3 cup peanut oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons red wine (pinot noir or Burgundy wine)
1/4 cup soy sauce
Cut the carrots into julienne strips. Blanch in salted boiling water until barely tender. Drain and set aside.
Cut 8 slices of ginger on the diagonal, then cut into julienne strips. Snap off the stems from the snow peas and remove the string.
Chop the scallions including some of the green top. Cut the pork into thin slices and then into 1/4 inch strips. Stir-fry.
Heat the oil in a frying pan over high heat. Add the pork and stir while cooking. After 1 minute, add the blanched carrots, the snow peas, and the ginger. Stir and cook for 5 minutes. Add the scallions and the garlic and then the wine and the soy sauce.
Simmer for 5 minutes.
Cut 8 slices of ginger on the diagonal, then cut into julienne strips. Snap off the stems from the snow peas and remove the string.
Chop the scallions including some of the green top. Cut the pork into thin slices and then into 1/4 inch strips. Stir-fry.
Heat the oil in a frying pan over high heat. Add the pork and stir while cooking. After 1 minute, add the blanched carrots, the snow peas, and the ginger. Stir and cook for 5 minutes. Add the scallions and the garlic and then the wine and the soy sauce.
Simmer for 5 minutes.
Main Goat cheese gratin
You will need six shallow 6-inch (15 cm) round gratin dishes or one 10 1/2-inch (27 cm) round baking dish
Serves: 6
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves
2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano leaves or a pinch of dried leaf oregano, crushed
1 1/2 to 2 cups (33 to 50 cl) homemade tomato Sauce, at room temperature
24 best-quality black olives (such as French Nyons), pitted
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:5 minutes
10 ounces (300 g) soft goat cheese or a mix of rindless soft goat and cow or sheep's milk cheese, cubed 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves
2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano leaves or a pinch of dried leaf oregano, crushed
1 1/2 to 2 cups (33 to 50 cl) homemade tomato Sauce, at room temperature
24 best-quality black olives (such as French Nyons), pitted
Preheat the broiler.
Scatter the cheese on the bottom of the baking dish or dishes. Sprinkle with half of the herbs. Spoon on just enough tomato sauce to evenly coat the cheese. Sprinkle with olives and the remaining herbs.
Place the baking dish or dishes under the broiler about 3 inches (8 cm) from the heat.
Broil until the cheese is melted and fragrant, and the tomato sauce is sizzling, 2 to 3 minutes.
variations:
Add julienned bits of prociutto, diced cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or marinated artichokes.
Scatter the cheese on the bottom of the baking dish or dishes. Sprinkle with half of the herbs. Spoon on just enough tomato sauce to evenly coat the cheese. Sprinkle with olives and the remaining herbs.
Place the baking dish or dishes under the broiler about 3 inches (8 cm) from the heat.
Broil until the cheese is melted and fragrant, and the tomato sauce is sizzling, 2 to 3 minutes.
variations:
Add julienned bits of prociutto, diced cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or marinated artichokes.
Main Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
12 slices thin ham 1 1/2 cups egg salad
1 cup aspic jelly
avocado slices
egg slices
Make ham rolls stuffing the egg salad in each slice. Pour liquid aspic in an 8 by 8-inch dish.
Let set until firm. Arrange stuffed ham on a platter. Decorate with avocado and egg slices.
Decorate platter with chopped aspic jelly. Refrigerate before serving.
Let set until firm. Arrange stuffed ham on a platter. Decorate with avocado and egg slices.
Decorate platter with chopped aspic jelly. Refrigerate before serving.
Main Savory lollipops for cocktail
Serves: 4
Preparation time:15 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
6 small carrots about 5-inch long 6 baby corn on the cob, (available in cans)
6 green asparagus, trimmed, about 5-inch long
1 beaten egg
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
4 tbsp. chopped cornflakes
2 tbsp. tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Peel the carrots. Blanch for 5 minutes and drain. Plant a bamboo spike at the base of each carrot, asparagus, and corn on the cob.
Roll carrots, asparagus and corn in flour. Dip them in the beaten eggs. Finally, roll the corn in the chopped cornflakes, then the carrots and asparagus in the breadcrumbs.
Place the vegetables on a baking sheet lined with lightly oiled baking paper. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake 20 to 30 mins. Sprinkle the carrots and asparagus with the parmesan then place everything on a serving platter before serving.
Peel the carrots. Blanch for 5 minutes and drain. Plant a bamboo spike at the base of each carrot, asparagus, and corn on the cob.
Roll carrots, asparagus and corn in flour. Dip them in the beaten eggs. Finally, roll the corn in the chopped cornflakes, then the carrots and asparagus in the breadcrumbs.
Place the vegetables on a baking sheet lined with lightly oiled baking paper. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake 20 to 30 mins. Sprinkle the carrots and asparagus with the parmesan then place everything on a serving platter before serving.
Main Marinated goat cheese crostini
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 12 hours
Cooking time:5 minutes
1 cup olive oil 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
2 teaspoons chopped thyme leaves
1 teaspoon chopped oregano
1 clove garlic, chopped
sprigs whole thyme and rosemary
4 individual goat cheese, like Crottin de Chavignol, picodon halved horizontally
2 plum tomatoes, stemmed and chopped
3 green onions, chopped
8 slices crusty French bread, lightly toasted
1 clove garlic, split in half
ground pepper
Heat oil in a saucepan. Do not overheat place herbs in a metal bowl. Pour oil over them. Cool completely and pour oil and herbs in a large jar with a tight-fitting lid. Add garlic and herb sprigs. Add goat cheese. Marinate 3 days in the refrigerator. Remove cheese from oil and drain. Refrigerate herb oil for other uses.
In a small bowl, combine tomatoes, green onions and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Rub one side of toasts with cut garlic.
Preheat broiler. Spoon tomato mixture onto the toast slices. Arrange on a baking sheet. Place one piece of cheese on each toast.
Broil 2 minutes or until cheese starts melting.
Serve immediately. Garnish with parsley sprigs.
In a small bowl, combine tomatoes, green onions and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Rub one side of toasts with cut garlic.
Preheat broiler. Spoon tomato mixture onto the toast slices. Arrange on a baking sheet. Place one piece of cheese on each toast.
Broil 2 minutes or until cheese starts melting.
Serve immediately. Garnish with parsley sprigs.
Main Cheese croquettes
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
4 ounces butter 1 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
2 cups grated Swiss cheese
3 egg yolks
salt, nutmeg, onion powder to taste
1 cup flour
1 cup fresh bread crumbs
2 cups tomato sauce
2 cups fried parsley
In a medium saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour. Add milk and cream and whisk until sauce is thick and bubbly. Mix in the cheese. Blend well. Stir in egg yolks. Season to taste.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.
Main Artichoke pâté
Serves: 12
Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time:1 hour
5 ounces pork fatback 8 ounces boneless veal
8 ounces boneless pork
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1 1/2 cups cream
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mixed seasonings
1 teaspoon chopped basil
12 artichoke hearts
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons Brandy
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Diced ham
pastry dough
Sherry wine aspic
Dice and freeze fatback. Dice the veal and pork. Heat oil in skillet. Sauté the onions. Combine meat, onion, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix cream and egg whites. Pour over meat. Refrigerate for a few hours.
Marinate artichokes in wine, brandy. Season with salt and pepper. Puree the meat with fatback. Add the pistachios and ham.
Grease a 5 cup mold and line top and bottom with pastry dough. Alternate forcemeat and artichokes ending with forcemeat.
Cover pâté with pastry. Brush with egg yolk.
Cut an opening in the center.
Bake at 350 degree for about an hour. When cold, fill the pate with sherry wine aspic.
Marinate artichokes in wine, brandy. Season with salt and pepper. Puree the meat with fatback. Add the pistachios and ham.
Grease a 5 cup mold and line top and bottom with pastry dough. Alternate forcemeat and artichokes ending with forcemeat.
Cover pâté with pastry. Brush with egg yolk.
Cut an opening in the center.
Bake at 350 degree for about an hour. When cold, fill the pate with sherry wine aspic.
Main Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar
From Le Cabro d'Or, Les Baux-de-Provence, France
Serves: 4
2 lemons, halved
8 artichokes (about 9 to 12 ounces each)
24 baby carrots, greens trimmed
1/4 cup olive oil
24 cherry tomatoes, halved
12 ounces button mushrooms, halved
1 10-ounce package frozen baby peas, thawed
1 10-ounce package frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:40 minutes
3 ounces Parmesan cheese 2 lemons, halved
8 artichokes (about 9 to 12 ounces each)
24 baby carrots, greens trimmed
1/4 cup olive oil
24 cherry tomatoes, halved
12 ounces button mushrooms, halved
1 10-ounce package frozen baby peas, thawed
1 10-ounce package frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Using a vegetable peeler or a medium knife, cut Parmesan into thin shavings. Set aside.
Squeeze juice from lemons into large pot; add lemons.
Fill pot with water. Cut stem and top 1/3 from 1 artichoke. Starting at base, bend leaves back and snap off where they break naturally; continue until all tough outer leaves have been removed. Using small sharp knife, trim outside of base until smooth and no dark green areas remain.
Cut artichoke lengthwise into quarters. Cut out choke from quarters. Cut each quarter in half, making 1/2-inch wedges. Place artichoke pieces in lemon water. Repeat with remaining artichokes. Cover pot and bring to boil. Boil artichokes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Cook 24 baby carrots in large pot of boiling water 5 minutes. Drain carrots well. (Carrots can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté until tomatoes and mushrooms release juices, about 8 minutes. Add artichokes, carrots, baby peas and lima beans.
Cook until lima beans and peas are tender and juices thicken slightly, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add 1/4 cup butter and stir until melted. Season vegetables to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer ragout to large bowl. Toss with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan shavings.
Squeeze juice from lemons into large pot; add lemons.
Fill pot with water. Cut stem and top 1/3 from 1 artichoke. Starting at base, bend leaves back and snap off where they break naturally; continue until all tough outer leaves have been removed. Using small sharp knife, trim outside of base until smooth and no dark green areas remain.
Cut artichoke lengthwise into quarters. Cut out choke from quarters. Cut each quarter in half, making 1/2-inch wedges. Place artichoke pieces in lemon water. Repeat with remaining artichokes. Cover pot and bring to boil. Boil artichokes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Cook 24 baby carrots in large pot of boiling water 5 minutes. Drain carrots well. (Carrots can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté until tomatoes and mushrooms release juices, about 8 minutes. Add artichokes, carrots, baby peas and lima beans.
Cook until lima beans and peas are tender and juices thicken slightly, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add 1/4 cup butter and stir until melted. Season vegetables to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer ragout to large bowl. Toss with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan shavings.
Main Mussel and scallop soup
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
2 pounds mussels 2 cups white wine
1 teaspoon shallots, chopped
1 teaspoon saffron
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons flour
1 cup cream
salt and white pepper to taste
8 ounces scallops
1 ounce butter
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Scrub mussels under cold running water. Heat wine in a large pot. Add mussels. Cover pot and steam for about 5 minutes, or until mussels are opened.
Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Save. Remove mussels from shells. Reserve for garnish.
In a medium saucepan, add mussel broth, shallots, onion, saffron, parsley and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Combine butter and flour to a paste.
Whip in the cooking liquid to thicken. Add cream and seasoning. Add mussels.
Saute scallops in butter and lemon juice until transparent. Dice the scallops and cooking liquid to soup together with mussels.
Heat soup and serve hot.
Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Save. Remove mussels from shells. Reserve for garnish.
In a medium saucepan, add mussel broth, shallots, onion, saffron, parsley and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Combine butter and flour to a paste.
Whip in the cooking liquid to thicken. Add cream and seasoning. Add mussels.
Saute scallops in butter and lemon juice until transparent. Dice the scallops and cooking liquid to soup together with mussels.
Heat soup and serve hot.
Main Asparagus with truffle broth
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:8 minutes
1/4 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup peanut oil
2 1/2 ounces chopped black truffles
2 pounds asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
In a small bowl, whisk together stock, oil and truffles.
In a deep 10 -to 12-inch skillet bring 3 inches salted water to a boil and cook asparagus until crisp tender, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain asparagus. Pat dry. Transfer to a serving dish and toss with butter.
Spoon truffle broth over asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Serve asparagus warm or at room temperature.
In a deep 10 -to 12-inch skillet bring 3 inches salted water to a boil and cook asparagus until crisp tender, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain asparagus. Pat dry. Transfer to a serving dish and toss with butter.
Spoon truffle broth over asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Serve asparagus warm or at room temperature.
Main Smoked salmon mousse
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
8 ounces smoked salmon 1/2 cup mayonnaise
3/4 cup aspic jelly *
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
Remove bones and skin from the smoked salmon. Cut in pieces and mix in a food processor. Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in the mayonnaise.
Run the mixture through a food mill. Mix in the cold liquid aspic jelly, lemon juice, wine and pepper.
Whip the cream until firm. Fold in the salmon mixture. Spoon the mousse into decorative molds.
Refrigerate until mousse is well set and firm. Unmold on serving dish or plate and surround with lettuce leaves.
* If aspic jelly is not available, substitute with 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin dissolved in 1/4 cup cold water. Set for 5 minutes. Melt over low heat, and use as directed for aspic jelly.
Run the mixture through a food mill. Mix in the cold liquid aspic jelly, lemon juice, wine and pepper.
Whip the cream until firm. Fold in the salmon mixture. Spoon the mousse into decorative molds.
Refrigerate until mousse is well set and firm. Unmold on serving dish or plate and surround with lettuce leaves.
* If aspic jelly is not available, substitute with 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin dissolved in 1/4 cup cold water. Set for 5 minutes. Melt over low heat, and use as directed for aspic jelly.
Side Dish count Potato crepes
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:30 minutes
6 medium red bliss potatoes 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large Spanish onion
3 tablespoons chopped parsley
6 crépes (recipe below)
4 oz brie or camembert cheese
2 tablespoons melted butter
Crêpe batter:
makes 8 to 10 crêpes
2 large eggs
1 1/4 cups milk (can be low-fat)
1 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup melted butter
Wash potatoes with the skin. Cook potatoes in salted boiling water until tender. Drain well. Peel and cut crosswise, into thin slices.
Slice onion thinly, crosswise.
In a frying pan, heat olive oil; add onion and sauté until lightly browned. Stir in potatoes and sauté for a minute. Stir in cheese to melt and add parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Lay out crêpes on a working surface.
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat one side with melted butter.
Divide stuffing in 6 equal portions and place a portion in the center of each crêpe. Fold the sides of the crêpe over the filling. Starting from one open end, roll up each crêpe to make a firm but not tight cylinder. Again, brush them with melted butter.
Place on small nonstick baking sheet. Bake in a 300 degree F. oven for 10 minutes.
To make crêpes, use a 6 or 7-inch crêpe or omelet non-stick pan.
Combine egg, milk, flour and salt in a blender or food processor and whip until batter is smooth. Heat crêpe or omelet pan.
Lightly brush pan with butter, and heat pan over medium heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup batter. Tilt the pan in all directions until the pan thoroughly coats the bottom.
Pour off any excess of batter (crêpe should be thin). Cook on one side over medium heat until lightly brown (about 20 seconds) then turn over and cook to brown the other side.
Turn the crêpe out onto a plate and repeat the process until all the batter is used. Stack the finished crêpes on one another; they don't stick.
Note:
crêpes can be made several days ahead. Cover the plate tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until use.
Slice onion thinly, crosswise.
In a frying pan, heat olive oil; add onion and sauté until lightly browned. Stir in potatoes and sauté for a minute. Stir in cheese to melt and add parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Lay out crêpes on a working surface.
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat one side with melted butter.
Divide stuffing in 6 equal portions and place a portion in the center of each crêpe. Fold the sides of the crêpe over the filling. Starting from one open end, roll up each crêpe to make a firm but not tight cylinder. Again, brush them with melted butter.
Place on small nonstick baking sheet. Bake in a 300 degree F. oven for 10 minutes.
To make crêpes, use a 6 or 7-inch crêpe or omelet non-stick pan.
Combine egg, milk, flour and salt in a blender or food processor and whip until batter is smooth. Heat crêpe or omelet pan.
Lightly brush pan with butter, and heat pan over medium heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup batter. Tilt the pan in all directions until the pan thoroughly coats the bottom.
Pour off any excess of batter (crêpe should be thin). Cook on one side over medium heat until lightly brown (about 20 seconds) then turn over and cook to brown the other side.
Turn the crêpe out onto a plate and repeat the process until all the batter is used. Stack the finished crêpes on one another; they don't stick.
Note:
crêpes can be made several days ahead. Cover the plate tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until use.
Side Dish Smoked salmon salad
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
10 ounces baby spinach, cleaned, drained 8 ounces smoked salmon
8 slices Swiss cheese
For dressing:
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
Trim stalks from spinach and shred leaves finely. Place in a large bowl. Cut smoked salmon and cheese into matchstick strips.
Heat the dressing ingredients in a pot. Bring to boil. Pour hot dressing over spinach and toss well.
PRESENTATION
Divide spinach among cold salad plates. Top with salmon and cheese. Vary the amount of spinach and cheese if desired.
Heat the dressing ingredients in a pot. Bring to boil. Pour hot dressing over spinach and toss well.
PRESENTATION
Divide spinach among cold salad plates. Top with salmon and cheese. Vary the amount of spinach and cheese if desired.
Side Dish Asparagus and tomato salad with feta
This Asparagus and Tomato Salad is easy to make with steamed asparagus, grape tomatoes, creamy feta, fresh herbs and a light dressing. The tarragon gives it a welcome hint of licorice. It can be eaten cold, warm or hot.
Asparagus is popular in the spring, especially around Easter and in the summer. It's peak season is April. This dish makes a great vegetable side dish and pairs perfectly with Easter.
Serves: 4
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp dried tarragon (use 1 tablespoon if using fresh)
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed - 2 bunches
3 green onions, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved (551 ml)
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
Asparagus is popular in the spring, especially around Easter and in the summer. It's peak season is April. This dish makes a great vegetable side dish and pairs perfectly with Easter.
Serves: 4
Preparation time:10 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp dried tarragon (use 1 tablespoon if using fresh)
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed - 2 bunches
3 green onions, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved (551 ml)
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
Snap off the woody ends of asparagus where they naturally break when you bend them or cut them off with a knife.
Boil water in a large pot or saucepan with steamer then reduce to simmer, add asparagus, cover with lid and steam asparagus until tender (about 8-10 minutes) *This will depend on your preference.
Use tongs to remove asparagus
In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, red wine, dijon mustard, salt and pepper together.
Cover and set aside until ready to use.
Arrange cooked asparagus tomatoes on a large platter.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
Drizzle with ½ the dressing and serve the remainder on the side *Can be served warm, room temperature or chilled.
????Variations & Substitutions
Tomatoes- you could use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes
Asparagus -you could use grilled or oven-roasted asparagus instead of steamed
Tarragon- fresh tarragon is ideal, but you can use dried
Feta cheese - you can use regular, light or fat-free feta or use goat cheese
Add-ins- you could also sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese and/or add red onions or green onion
Boil water in a large pot or saucepan with steamer then reduce to simmer, add asparagus, cover with lid and steam asparagus until tender (about 8-10 minutes) *This will depend on your preference.
Use tongs to remove asparagus
In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, red wine, dijon mustard, salt and pepper together.
Cover and set aside until ready to use.
Arrange cooked asparagus tomatoes on a large platter.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
Drizzle with ½ the dressing and serve the remainder on the side *Can be served warm, room temperature or chilled.
????Variations & Substitutions
Tomatoes- you could use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes
Asparagus -you could use grilled or oven-roasted asparagus instead of steamed
Tarragon- fresh tarragon is ideal, but you can use dried
Feta cheese - you can use regular, light or fat-free feta or use goat cheese
Add-ins- you could also sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese and/or add red onions or green onion
Side Dish Tomatoes provencale
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time:25 minutes
4 tomatoes 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
2 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
to taste salt and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Wash tomatoes. Cut the tomatoes in half crosswise, discarding the cores.
Put them in a buttered baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oil, blending well to form a crumbly mixture.
Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the tomatoes. Bake at 350 degrees until the tomatoes are tender.
Put them in a buttered baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oil, blending well to form a crumbly mixture.
Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the tomatoes. Bake at 350 degrees until the tomatoes are tender.
Side Dish Asparagus with morels and tarragon
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
1 pound white asparagus, trimmed, peeled, and cut into 2-inch pieces 1 pound green asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
3/4 stick (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon pieces
1/2 cup finely chopped shallots (2 large)
1/4 pound fresh morels, cleaned and halved lengthwise if large
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Garnish: chopped fresh tarragon
Cook white and green asparagus separately in a 5- to 6-quart pot of boiling salted water, uncovered, until just tender, about 5 minutes for white asparagus; about 3 minutes for green asparagus.
Transfer asparagus with a slotted spoon to a colander and rinse under cold water (to stop cooking), then drain again. Pat dry.
Heat 3 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then sauté shallots, stirring, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Add morels and sauté, stirring frequently, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add asparagus, tarragon, salt, pepper, and remaining 3 tablespoons butter and sauté, stirring, until heated through, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Transfer asparagus with a slotted spoon to a colander and rinse under cold water (to stop cooking), then drain again. Pat dry.
Heat 3 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then sauté shallots, stirring, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Add morels and sauté, stirring frequently, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add asparagus, tarragon, salt, pepper, and remaining 3 tablespoons butter and sauté, stirring, until heated through, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Side Dish Creamy cauliflower purée
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
1 medium head cauliflower, cut up into florets4 cloves crushed garlic
1/3 cup 1% buttermilk or low fat sour cream
salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter
Steam or boil cauliflower and garlic until soft. Drain, add buttermilk, light butter, salt, pepper and purée with a hand blender or regular blender.
Side Dish Berny potatoes
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
8 2 pounds potatoes
3 ounces butter, soft
4 egg yolks
to taste salt and pepper
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 tablespoon chopped truffles
1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Peel and cut potatoes into large cubes. Place in a large saucepan, boil in salted boiling water until tender. Drain well, and put through a ricer.
Transfer to a saucepan, and combine with butter, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in chopped truffles, and sliced almonds.
Cool potato mixture until it becomes easy to handle.
Shape into pancakes 3 inch round by 1 inch thick. Arrange on a greased baking sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Peel and cut potatoes into large cubes. Place in a large saucepan, boil in salted boiling water until tender. Drain well, and put through a ricer.
Transfer to a saucepan, and combine with butter, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in chopped truffles, and sliced almonds.
Cool potato mixture until it becomes easy to handle.
Shape into pancakes 3 inch round by 1 inch thick. Arrange on a greased baking sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Side Dish Asparagus sauce
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
12 asparagus spears 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 small scallions (green onions), chopped
to taste, salt and ground white pepper
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Cut asparagus in halves. Discard the woody parts. Cut spears into 1-inch pieces. Cook in salted boiling water until tender, about 6 minutes. Melt butter in a skillet. Add asparagus, scallions, salt and pepper to taste. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Puree mixture in a blender. Put through a strainer. Heat in a saucepan with the cream, and keep warm until needed.
Side Dish Almondine potatoes
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
2 pounds potatoes 3 ounces butter, soft
3 egg yolks
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
For breading:
3 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoonsoil
1/2 cup flour
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1 cup sliced almonds
oil for frying
Peel and cut potatoes into large cubes. Place in a large saucepan, boil in salted boiling water until tender. Drain well, and put through a ricer.
In a large saucepan, combine potatoes with butter, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Using a wooden spoon, mix well over medium heat until mixture thickens.
Spread mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until cold.
Shape duchess potato into small logs, (1 inch round by 3 inches long).
Dip in beaten egg mixed with oil. Coat in flour, and roll in breadcrumbs and sliced almonds combined. Deep Fry at 350 degrees until golden brown
In a large saucepan, combine potatoes with butter, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Using a wooden spoon, mix well over medium heat until mixture thickens.
Spread mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until cold.
Shape duchess potato into small logs, (1 inch round by 3 inches long).
Dip in beaten egg mixed with oil. Coat in flour, and roll in breadcrumbs and sliced almonds combined. Deep Fry at 350 degrees until golden brown
Dessert Apricot and plum tart
Serves: 6
1 tablespoon sugar
a pinch cinnamon
1/2-pound frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed
4 plums, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
6 fresh apricots, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
3 tablespoons apricot jam, melted, strained, and kept warm
vanilla ice cream as an accompaniment if desired
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:25 minutes
a 1-inch piece vanilla bean split lengthwise1 tablespoon sugar
a pinch cinnamon
1/2-pound frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed
4 plums, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
6 fresh apricots, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
3 tablespoons apricot jam, melted, strained, and kept warm
vanilla ice cream as an accompaniment if desired
Preheat oven to 400°F. Scrape seeds from vanilla bean with a knife into a small bowl, discarding pod, and stir in sugar and cinnamon.
On a lightly floured surface roll out pastry 1/8 inch thick and drape pastry over tart pan, pressing dough gently onto pan.
On pastry arrange plum and apricot slices, overlapping them slightly, in rows and sprinkle with sugar mixture.
Bake tart in middle of oven until pastry is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.
Cool tarts on a rack and brush with jam. Serve tarts warm with ice cream.
On a lightly floured surface roll out pastry 1/8 inch thick and drape pastry over tart pan, pressing dough gently onto pan.
On pastry arrange plum and apricot slices, overlapping them slightly, in rows and sprinkle with sugar mixture.
Bake tart in middle of oven until pastry is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.
Cool tarts on a rack and brush with jam. Serve tarts warm with ice cream.
Dessert Baba au rum
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time:25 minutes
1/2 cup raisins 1/4 cup rum
1 tablespoon yeast
1/3 cup warm milk
1 cup flour
2 eggs
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
pinch salt
1 teaspoon sugar
SYRUP:
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup dark rum
3/4 cup apricot glaze
2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
1 cup strawberries, cleaned and sliced
1 cup whipped cream
In a small bowl, soak raisins with 1/4 cup rum and set aside.
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast with milk. Let rise in a warm place for 10 minutes.
Mix in the flour and eggs, beating well until dough is smooth. Cover the bowl, and let rise at room temperature for 45 minutes. Mix the softened butter, salt and sugar in the dough, slapping it against the sides of the bowl. Mix in the rum-soaked raisins.
Fill individual buttered molds 2.5 inch high by 1.75 inch diameter about half full. Let rise until molds are full. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.
For syrup: Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from heat, and cool until lukewarm. Add the vanilla and rum.
Soak the babas in the syrup to absorb as much of the syrup as possible. Heat the apricot glaze, and brush over the babas. Place the soaked babas on plates. Pipe rosettes of whipped cream on plates. Decorate with kiwis and strawberries.
SAVARIN is a ring-shaped cake made with the above recipe.
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast with milk. Let rise in a warm place for 10 minutes.
Mix in the flour and eggs, beating well until dough is smooth. Cover the bowl, and let rise at room temperature for 45 minutes. Mix the softened butter, salt and sugar in the dough, slapping it against the sides of the bowl. Mix in the rum-soaked raisins.
Fill individual buttered molds 2.5 inch high by 1.75 inch diameter about half full. Let rise until molds are full. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.
For syrup: Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from heat, and cool until lukewarm. Add the vanilla and rum.
Soak the babas in the syrup to absorb as much of the syrup as possible. Heat the apricot glaze, and brush over the babas. Place the soaked babas on plates. Pipe rosettes of whipped cream on plates. Decorate with kiwis and strawberries.
SAVARIN is a ring-shaped cake made with the above recipe.
Dessert Chocolate sauce
Store the chocolate sauce in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Rewarm before serving.
Serves: 8
1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
1/2 cup (160 g) light corn syrup or agave nectar
3/4 cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
2 ounces (55 g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
1 cup (250 ml) water1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
1/2 cup (160 g) light corn syrup or agave nectar
3/4 cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
2 ounces (55 g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the water, sugar, corn syrup (or agave), and cocoa powder.
Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it’s just begun to simmer and boil, remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate until melted.
Let the Chocolate Sauce stand for a few hours before serving.
Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it’s just begun to simmer and boil, remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate until melted.
Let the Chocolate Sauce stand for a few hours before serving.
Dessert Trianon or Gâteau Royal
Serves: 10
Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time:20 minutes
The Cocoa and Almond Sponge Cake :Allows to make 2 squares 16x16 cm
- 3 egg-whites
- 40 gr sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 30 gr flour
- 50 gr ground almonds
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
The Praliné Feuillantine (Crispy Praline) :
- 100 gr praline paste
- 65 gr milk chocolate
- 50 gr crèpes dentelles (if not available use corn flakes or rice crispies)
The Chocolate Mousse :
- 200 gr dark chocolate
- 50 gr cream
- 4 sheets gelatin
- 3 egg-yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 50 gr sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 350 gr cream
The Chocolate Glaze :
- 150 gr water
- 180 gr sugar
- 60 gr cocoa powder
- 6 gelatin sheets
- 100 gr cream
The Cocoa and Almond Sponge Cake
Start beating the egg-whites and when it forms peaks add the sugar and keep beating until fluffy. Then the yolks, beat until homogeneous
Mix together the ground almonds, the flour and the cocoa then blend them into the meringue delicately
Spread this mixture over 2 sheets of baking paper, shape 2 squares a bit larger than 16x16 cm and put in a preheated oven (medium heat) for 7-10 minutes (according to your oven). Then leave to cool down for 5 minutes, remove from the baking paper (turn them upside down), reserve.
The Praliné Feuillantine (Crispy Praline)
Warm up the praline paste over a hot water bath, add the chocolate, stir until completely melted.
Crush the crèpes dentelles (or the corn flakes or even crispy rice), and mix them into the praline paste and chocolate.
Spread this mixture over a sheet of baking paper, try to shape a square 16x16 cm... Place in the freezer right away.
The Chocolate Mousse :
Hydrate the gelatin in cold water for 5 minutes. Melt the chocolate over a warm water bath. Heat up the 50 gr cream and add the gelatin (drained), stir until dissolved, then blend the cream into the chocolate, mix until homogeneous. We get a ganache. Leave to cool down, until it reaches about 30°C/86°F.
Place the yolks and the whole egg in a large bowl (glass or metal). Then prepare the syrup, gather the water and sugar in a pan and heat it up until it reaches 115°C/239°F, pour it right away in a thin stream over the eggs, whipping all the time until it reaches the room temperature. We get a smooth mousse. Blend delicately this mousse into the ganache. Then prepare the whipped cream with the 350 gr cream and fold it delicately as well into the previous mixture.
The Chocolate Glaze :
Hydrate the gelatin in cold water for about 5 minutes.
In a pan bring to the boil the water and sugar. Add the cocoa powder, mix until homogeneous. Add the gelatin (drained), mix until dissolved, then add the cream. Reserve (we want to use it below 30°C/86°F).
The Assembly :
Place one square of sponge cake in the middle of the cake frame. Place over it the crispy praline (still frozen). Then pour the chocolate mousse almost to the top.Place the second square of sponge cake, press a bit then cover with the rest of mousse to the top. Level with a large spatula. Put right away in the freezer for about 2 or 3 hours. This step will help to remove the cake from the cake frame and to set quickly the chocolate glaze.
Remove the cake from the freezer, and delicately from the cake frame.
Place the cake on a shelf and pour the chocolate glaze over it and leveling the top with a large spatula.
When the glaze is completely set, decorate as you want, here with some macaroons. Leave it at room temperature for 1 hour in order to defrost and then serve right away.
Start beating the egg-whites and when it forms peaks add the sugar and keep beating until fluffy. Then the yolks, beat until homogeneous
Mix together the ground almonds, the flour and the cocoa then blend them into the meringue delicately
Spread this mixture over 2 sheets of baking paper, shape 2 squares a bit larger than 16x16 cm and put in a preheated oven (medium heat) for 7-10 minutes (according to your oven). Then leave to cool down for 5 minutes, remove from the baking paper (turn them upside down), reserve.
The Praliné Feuillantine (Crispy Praline)
Warm up the praline paste over a hot water bath, add the chocolate, stir until completely melted.
Crush the crèpes dentelles (or the corn flakes or even crispy rice), and mix them into the praline paste and chocolate.
Spread this mixture over a sheet of baking paper, try to shape a square 16x16 cm... Place in the freezer right away.
The Chocolate Mousse :
Hydrate the gelatin in cold water for 5 minutes. Melt the chocolate over a warm water bath. Heat up the 50 gr cream and add the gelatin (drained), stir until dissolved, then blend the cream into the chocolate, mix until homogeneous. We get a ganache. Leave to cool down, until it reaches about 30°C/86°F.
Place the yolks and the whole egg in a large bowl (glass or metal). Then prepare the syrup, gather the water and sugar in a pan and heat it up until it reaches 115°C/239°F, pour it right away in a thin stream over the eggs, whipping all the time until it reaches the room temperature. We get a smooth mousse. Blend delicately this mousse into the ganache. Then prepare the whipped cream with the 350 gr cream and fold it delicately as well into the previous mixture.
The Chocolate Glaze :
Hydrate the gelatin in cold water for about 5 minutes.
In a pan bring to the boil the water and sugar. Add the cocoa powder, mix until homogeneous. Add the gelatin (drained), mix until dissolved, then add the cream. Reserve (we want to use it below 30°C/86°F).
The Assembly :
Place one square of sponge cake in the middle of the cake frame. Place over it the crispy praline (still frozen). Then pour the chocolate mousse almost to the top.Place the second square of sponge cake, press a bit then cover with the rest of mousse to the top. Level with a large spatula. Put right away in the freezer for about 2 or 3 hours. This step will help to remove the cake from the cake frame and to set quickly the chocolate glaze.
Remove the cake from the freezer, and delicately from the cake frame.
Place the cake on a shelf and pour the chocolate glaze over it and leveling the top with a large spatula.
When the glaze is completely set, decorate as you want, here with some macaroons. Leave it at room temperature for 1 hour in order to defrost and then serve right away.
Dessert Easter bunny cake
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time:35 minutes
1 package Yellow Cake 1 cup water
1/3 cup Vegetable Oil
3 large eggs
Butter Cream Frosting (recipe below)
2 cups coconut
Red licorice strips
Jelly beans
Butter Cream Frosting
4 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
5 to 6 tablespoons milk
1. In the bowl of an electric mixer combine powdered sugar, shortening and vanilla. Slowly blend in milk to desired consistency.
2. Beat on high for 5 minutes, or until smooth and creamy.
1. HEAT oven to 350°F.
Prepare cake according to package directions using the water, oil and eggs.
Pour into two 8-inch round cake pans. Bake as directed. Cool for 10 to 15 minutes before removing from pan. Cool completely.
TURN one cooled cake layer upside down. See image sketch for details:
Mark center of cake with toothpick. Measure about 2-inches in from two sides of cake lining up the toothpicks. Using the tip of a sharp knife, lightly draw a 2-inch wide x 6-inch long oval, football shape, to make the ears. Cut with a serrated knife. The middle part of the layer will be the "bow tie" for the bunny.
PLACE whole cake layer in center of large tray. Place ears and bow tie, rounded side up, to make bunny. Frost entire surface and sides of cake, connecting the pieces together with frosting. Sprinkle with coconut. Cut licorice pieces for mouth and whiskers. Cut jelly beans in half for eyes, nose and bow tie.
TIP To make green "grass" around bunny, toss an additional 1/2 cup coconut with a few drops of green food coloring until desired color. Place around base of bunny.
Prepare cake according to package directions using the water, oil and eggs.
Pour into two 8-inch round cake pans. Bake as directed. Cool for 10 to 15 minutes before removing from pan. Cool completely.
TURN one cooled cake layer upside down. See image sketch for details:
Mark center of cake with toothpick. Measure about 2-inches in from two sides of cake lining up the toothpicks. Using the tip of a sharp knife, lightly draw a 2-inch wide x 6-inch long oval, football shape, to make the ears. Cut with a serrated knife. The middle part of the layer will be the "bow tie" for the bunny.
PLACE whole cake layer in center of large tray. Place ears and bow tie, rounded side up, to make bunny. Frost entire surface and sides of cake, connecting the pieces together with frosting. Sprinkle with coconut. Cut licorice pieces for mouth and whiskers. Cut jelly beans in half for eyes, nose and bow tie.
TIP To make green "grass" around bunny, toss an additional 1/2 cup coconut with a few drops of green food coloring until desired color. Place around base of bunny.
Dessert Orange mousse meringues
Serves: 8
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:3 hours
Meringue shell: 3 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Orange mousse filling:
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
1 1/2 cups orange juice
3 egg yolks
2 teaspoons grated orange rind
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup chilled evaporated milk
FOR MERINGUE SHELL:
Preheat oven to 250 degrees In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually beat in the sugar, 1 tablespoon at the time until stiff glossy peaks form. Blend in cornstarch.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread with meringue to make 9-inch circles, forming 1-inch high rounded rim.
Bake in center of oven for about one hour or until crisp. Turn oven off and let meringue dry 2 to 3 hours.
Remove from oven and gently peel off paper. Place on serving plate.
FOR ORANGE MOUSSE FILLING:
Sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup of the orange juice. Set aside.
In a heavy bottom non aluminum saucepan, whisk egg yolks lightly. add rind, remaining juice, and sugar.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 5 to 10 minutes or until thick enough to coat the back of spoon.
Remove from heat. Stir in the gelatin mixture to dissolve. Cover and refrigerate for about 15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
In a bowl, beat evaporated milk for minute or until thick and foamy; fold into gelatin mixture until combined. spoon into meringue shell. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until set.
Preheat oven to 250 degrees In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually beat in the sugar, 1 tablespoon at the time until stiff glossy peaks form. Blend in cornstarch.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread with meringue to make 9-inch circles, forming 1-inch high rounded rim.
Bake in center of oven for about one hour or until crisp. Turn oven off and let meringue dry 2 to 3 hours.
Remove from oven and gently peel off paper. Place on serving plate.
FOR ORANGE MOUSSE FILLING:
Sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup of the orange juice. Set aside.
In a heavy bottom non aluminum saucepan, whisk egg yolks lightly. add rind, remaining juice, and sugar.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 5 to 10 minutes or until thick enough to coat the back of spoon.
Remove from heat. Stir in the gelatin mixture to dissolve. Cover and refrigerate for about 15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
In a bowl, beat evaporated milk for minute or until thick and foamy; fold into gelatin mixture until combined. spoon into meringue shell. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until set.
Dessert Peach melba
The Peach Melba was created in London between 1892 and 1896 by chef Auguste Escoffier, who dedicated it to Nelly Melba, a famous singer. The recipe did not include Chantilly.
Serves: 4
1 whole vanilla bean
1 cup plus 4 tsp. sugar
1 pint vanilla ice cream, softened
1 cup raspberries
1⁄2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
Serves: 4
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:15 minutes
4 ripe peaches1 whole vanilla bean
1 cup plus 4 tsp. sugar
1 pint vanilla ice cream, softened
1 cup raspberries
1⁄2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
Bring a large pot of water to a simmer over high heat. Lower peaches into simmering water and blanch just long enough to loosen their skins, about 1 minute. Transfer peaches with a slotted spoon to a bowl of ice water to cool, then peel, halve lengthwise, and discard pits. Put peach halves and vanilla bean into a wide dish and sprinkle with 1 cup of the sugar. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside until peach juices run and most of the sugar dissolves, about 1 hour.
Bring 3 cups water to a boil in a medium pot over high heat. Add peaches and the sugary juices and vanilla bean, reduce heat to medium, and poach, gently stirring occasionally, until peaches are just soft when pierced, 8–12 minutes. Remove pot from heat, partially cover, and set aside until peaches are cool, 1–2 hours. Transfer pot to the refrigerator until peaches are thoroughly chilled, 2–3 hours.
Meanwhile, divide ice cream between 4 wide dessert dishes, making a smooth, even layer in bottom of each dish; transfer to freezer until ice cream is solid. Purée raspberries in a blender, then strain through a sieve into a bowl, pressing purée through with a rubber spatula; discard seeds. Add the remaining 4 tsp. sugar and lemon juice to purée, stirring until sugar dissolves.
To serve, arrange 2 peach halves, pit side down, in each dish top of ice cream (save poaching liquid for another use). Spoon some of the raspberry sauce over peaches. Allow ice cream to soften slightly before serving.
Bring 3 cups water to a boil in a medium pot over high heat. Add peaches and the sugary juices and vanilla bean, reduce heat to medium, and poach, gently stirring occasionally, until peaches are just soft when pierced, 8–12 minutes. Remove pot from heat, partially cover, and set aside until peaches are cool, 1–2 hours. Transfer pot to the refrigerator until peaches are thoroughly chilled, 2–3 hours.
Meanwhile, divide ice cream between 4 wide dessert dishes, making a smooth, even layer in bottom of each dish; transfer to freezer until ice cream is solid. Purée raspberries in a blender, then strain through a sieve into a bowl, pressing purée through with a rubber spatula; discard seeds. Add the remaining 4 tsp. sugar and lemon juice to purée, stirring until sugar dissolves.
To serve, arrange 2 peach halves, pit side down, in each dish top of ice cream (save poaching liquid for another use). Spoon some of the raspberry sauce over peaches. Allow ice cream to soften slightly before serving.
Dessert Chocolate and raspberry fontaines
This recipe comes from the restaurant Daniel in New york City .
Crispy phyllo packages stuffed with warm, bittersweet chocolate ganache topped with raspberries. The recipe can be prepared 6 to 8 hours in advance.
Serves: 12
7 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 teaspoons raspberry brandy (eau de vie de framboise)
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
8 sheets phyllo dough, 10 by 20 inches
1/2 cup sweet butter, melted
1 recipe cocoa sponge cake (see recipe) or commercial pound cake
1 pint raspberries
Serves: 12
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time:10 minutes
Ganache: 7 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 teaspoons raspberry brandy (eau de vie de framboise)
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
8 sheets phyllo dough, 10 by 20 inches
1/2 cup sweet butter, melted
1 recipe cocoa sponge cake (see recipe) or commercial pound cake
1 pint raspberries
Ganache:
Place the chocolate in a bowl. Bring the cream to a boil in a small saucepan and pour over the chocolate. Stir to melt.
Add 2 tablespoons of the raspberry brandy, and combine until smooth. Set the chocolate ganache to cool.
Syrup:
Combine 1/3 cup of water in a small pot; add confectioners' sugar and stir until dissolved. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of the raspberry brandy. Remove the syrup from heat.
Cut the cocoa sponge cake or commercial pound cake into 12 disks 2 1/2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick with a cookie cutter.
To assemble:
spread 1 sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface, brush with a tin coating of the melted butter, dust with sifted confectioners' sugar, and cover with a second sheet.
Brush with melted butter again and dust with sugar. Cut the rectangular phyllo dough into 3 equal strips, about 6 1/2 inches wide by 10 inches long.
Place a disk of chocolate cake in the center of each strip and moisten each disk with a little of the raspberry syrup. Cover each disk with a generous spoonful of the ganache and place 8 to 10 raspberries on top.
First, fold one end of the phyllo dough over the raspberries and then the other, tucking under to form a small closed purse fully encasing the chocolate and the raspberries.
Repeat this process until you have made 12 packages.
Brush each one with butter and refrigerate (or freeze) until ready to bake.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the packages on a greased baking sheet and sprinkle with more sugar.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Keep warm.
Top each fontaine with the remaining raspberries and serve hot
Place the chocolate in a bowl. Bring the cream to a boil in a small saucepan and pour over the chocolate. Stir to melt.
Add 2 tablespoons of the raspberry brandy, and combine until smooth. Set the chocolate ganache to cool.
Syrup:
Combine 1/3 cup of water in a small pot; add confectioners' sugar and stir until dissolved. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of the raspberry brandy. Remove the syrup from heat.
Cut the cocoa sponge cake or commercial pound cake into 12 disks 2 1/2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick with a cookie cutter.
To assemble:
spread 1 sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface, brush with a tin coating of the melted butter, dust with sifted confectioners' sugar, and cover with a second sheet.
Brush with melted butter again and dust with sugar. Cut the rectangular phyllo dough into 3 equal strips, about 6 1/2 inches wide by 10 inches long.
Place a disk of chocolate cake in the center of each strip and moisten each disk with a little of the raspberry syrup. Cover each disk with a generous spoonful of the ganache and place 8 to 10 raspberries on top.
First, fold one end of the phyllo dough over the raspberries and then the other, tucking under to form a small closed purse fully encasing the chocolate and the raspberries.
Repeat this process until you have made 12 packages.
Brush each one with butter and refrigerate (or freeze) until ready to bake.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the packages on a greased baking sheet and sprinkle with more sugar.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Keep warm.
Top each fontaine with the remaining raspberries and serve hot
Dessert Warm chocolate torte
Serves: 10
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
10 ounces bittersweet chocolate, such as Caillebaut, or Valrhona, coarsely chopped 10 ounces sweet butter, soft
9 egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
5 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
confectioners' sugar for dusting
Preheat oven at 300 degrees.
Butter the inside of 10 3 1/4 -or 4-by 1-inch rings.
Use empty 6-oz pineapple cans, with tops, bottoms, and labels removed or use circles of same diameter. Set rings on a buttered baking sheet.
Melt chocolate on low heat or in double boiler. Set aside to cool. Cream the butter in an electric mixer. Beat in the cooled chocolate.
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 6 teaspoons sugar until lemony colored. Beat in the chocolate mixture.
Beat egg whites with cream of tartar to form soft peaks. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons sugar and beat at high speed to hold soft peaks. Fold in the chocolate mixture.
Fill rings 1/2 full. Recipe can be made 3 hours ahead to this point.
Bake 15 to 20 minutes. Set baking sheet on a rack to cool. After 10 minutes.
Twist rings and remove from the tortes.
Transfer to dessert plates. Dust with sugar. Serve with ice cream. Drizzle with bittersweet chocolate sauce.
Bittersweet chocolate sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine 5 oz bittersweet chocolate with 1 1/4 cups warm water. Melt chocolate on low heat.
Away from heat, whisk in 2 teaspoons sweet butter. Cool and refrigerate.
Butter the inside of 10 3 1/4 -or 4-by 1-inch rings.
Use empty 6-oz pineapple cans, with tops, bottoms, and labels removed or use circles of same diameter. Set rings on a buttered baking sheet.
Melt chocolate on low heat or in double boiler. Set aside to cool. Cream the butter in an electric mixer. Beat in the cooled chocolate.
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 6 teaspoons sugar until lemony colored. Beat in the chocolate mixture.
Beat egg whites with cream of tartar to form soft peaks. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons sugar and beat at high speed to hold soft peaks. Fold in the chocolate mixture.
Fill rings 1/2 full. Recipe can be made 3 hours ahead to this point.
Bake 15 to 20 minutes. Set baking sheet on a rack to cool. After 10 minutes.
Twist rings and remove from the tortes.
Transfer to dessert plates. Dust with sugar. Serve with ice cream. Drizzle with bittersweet chocolate sauce.
Bittersweet chocolate sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine 5 oz bittersweet chocolate with 1 1/4 cups warm water. Melt chocolate on low heat.
Away from heat, whisk in 2 teaspoons sweet butter. Cool and refrigerate.
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
LUXEMBOURG
"May every sunrise hold more promise, and every sunset hold more peace."
The {Page Turner} E-Cookbooks
Library on a world cooking journey
39 Recipes
9 Appetizers
12 Main dishes
9 Side dishes
9 Desserts