tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89498751704934330342024-03-13T15:25:22.790-04:00Cinna-moonBeamsSweet Fairy Tales - Radiant & Healthy Alternatives to Traditional Baking and SweetsBe_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-35965487314114779992012-07-05T23:50:00.002-04:002012-07-05T23:50:43.520-04:00Oven Who? [of cherries and summer bliss]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Above is a sample of pure morning bliss: fresh veggies and fruits juice - carrots, green kale, apples, lemon, spinach (all organic).</div>
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Below is a different story! [well, not that different]</div>
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<span style="font-family: times new roman;">"What the little prince did not dare confess
was that he was sorry most of all to leave this planet, because it was
blest every day with 1440 sunsets!" Sunsets for the Little Prince, cherries for me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times new roman;">Little Prince thinks that "one sees clearly only with the heart. Anything <u>essential</u> is invisible to the eyes". But I would add: "except for the cherries, Little Prince, except for the cherries" </span><span style="font-family: ARIAL;"><span style="font-family: ARIAL; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<br />Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-85558998185367708572012-06-04T17:01:00.002-04:002012-06-04T17:01:50.739-04:00Peach Clafouti<div style="text-align: center;">
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If it wasn't for the peach prep time, I'd say this is the quickest recipe ever - don't even need to look for the electric mixer (oh, cleaning time...): a bowl and a fork and voila! [The peach prep part can also be taken care of by a huge pot of make-ahead peach (apricot, etc) compote. Refreshing yumminess! (Organic, sugar free) canned peaches will do too! Other fruits though - berries, cherries, etc don't even need to go through the prep-ahead]</div>
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[If using canned peaches: use 4 halves and cut each half in 4 slices.]</div>
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If using fresh peaches: Bring a sauce pan water to boil and add <b><span style="color: magenta;">2 peaches cut in halves</span></b>. Boil for ~ 4-5 minutes and drain. When peaches are cool enough to touch, remove the skin and cut each half in 4. </div>
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Arrange the peach pieces on the bottom of a buttered quiche/pie pan (I used a 9in round quiche pan, but I think a 10in one would be ideal). Set aside.</div>
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Preheat oven to 375F. </div>
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In a large bowl, whisk (a fork will do!):</div>
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<b>- 3 whole eggs</b></div>
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Add the following, mixing well after each addition:</div>
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<b>- 1 cup sour cream (I used Organic Meadows, 14% MF)</b></div>
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<b>- 1/3 cup honey</b></div>
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<b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div>
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<b>- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour.</b></div>
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Pour batter over the peaches (peach slices might need some rearranging after this step). Bake the clafouti until edges are brown and centre is set, ~ 35 minutes (a knife inserted in centre should come out clean). Cool completely before cutting. <i>(**nutrition info at the very bottom)</i></div>
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I wish I could say it serves 4-6, but it magically disappeared with the help of just 2 people: DH and DS. If I were to ask Anita (coz oooooh, she knooows), I'd probably find out that "a summer full of various clafoutis is waiting ahead". (second) best part is that it's so easy to make (and apparently to eat), it's almost unreal.</div>
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And just because: it's June, so here are the roses!</div>
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Nutritional info for 1 of 6 servings: <i>Calories: 202, Total Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 4.2g, Trans fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 126 mg, Sodium: 61mg, Total Carb: 29.4g, Dietary Fiber: 1.6g, Sugars: 10.2g, Protein: 5.4g</i></div>
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<i>Vitamin A: 16%, Vitamin C: 2%, Calcium: 7%, Iron: 3%</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(calculated on MyFoodDiary)</span></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-63600834059487921412012-05-28T12:18:00.002-04:002012-05-28T12:18:37.070-04:00Lemon & Mint Blondies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This was actually Victoria Day long weekend baking - recipe has been waiting for a week to make it as a blog post. My mind is everywhere-and-anywhere-landing-nowhere - organizing my thoughts and going through mental and actual to-do lists seems like a sprint up Everest mountain and back [in other words, impossible!]. </div>
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I'm blaming the fresh mint on the<a href="http://www.onthemoveorganics.ca/" target="_blank"> On the Move Organics</a> ordering form - caught my eye and just couldn't resist; and since the lovely condo association removed [just like this] all the mint plants that were lining half of one side of my house, I'm loving mint even more [hehe, if that's even possible!]. </div>
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Paired the lovely mint with cute happy lemons, and voila!</div>
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Now, the specifics: 16 squares; preheat oven at 350 F.</div>
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In a large bowl, mix together:</div>
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<b>- 3 whole eggs</b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or vegetable oil)</b></div>
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<b>- 1/3 cup agave syrup</b></div>
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<b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div>
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Add:</div>
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<b>- 2 lemons, juiced</b></div>
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<b>- 1 tbsp peppermint leaves, chopped</b></div>
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Now it's time for:</div>
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-<b style="background-color: magenta;"><span style="background-color: white;"> <span style="color: magenta;">1 cup ricotta cheese</span></span><span><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span></b></div>
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Mix until smooth. Add:</div>
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<b>-<span style="color: magenta;"> 1 cup whole wheat flour</span></b></div>
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<b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></div>
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Transfer batter into a 10- in square baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake for ~ 45 min (toothpick test).<br />
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Serve warm or chilled, with a side of summer & color.<br />
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[Back by popular demand] Nutritional info per 1 of 16 squares: <i>Calories: 137, Total Fat: 8.9g, Saturated Fat: 5.3g (significantly lower if vegetable oil is ued), Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 63 mg, Sodium: 26 mg, Total Carb: 11.3g, Dietary Fiber: 0.9g, Sugars: 0.3g, Proteins: 4g</i></div>
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<i>Vitamin A: 6%, Vitamin C: 3%, Calcium: 4%, Iron: 3%</i></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-63596867134933201402012-04-24T17:02:00.000-04:002012-04-24T17:08:13.411-04:00Marble Cake Loaf (paired with brownies)<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't know what set me in such a mood for marble cake... I ended up craving it - mostly visually, to be honest. And the smell of freshly baked something - anything.</div>
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It was at the annual MS Walk when the cravings started - might've been the cold [I think any date they'd choose for the walk, even late July or mid August, we'd end up with cold, drizzle, etc - I bet it's the luck of the Walk :)) ]</div>
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As I was saying, it must've been the cold, the walk itself (which was awesome, and so was the company!), the snacks they served at the checkpoints, as well as before the walk and after... I can't exactly say what was that triggered the marble cake mania, but it was for real!</div>
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So Monday evening, after getting back for work: baking time! Fortunately, it's super easy to make, and doesn't need attention while baking, so this makes it double the treat.</div>
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Recipe yields one loaf. Preheat the oven at 325 F.</div>
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In a large bowl, add the following, mixing well after each addition:</div>
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<b>- 2 large whole eggs</b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup vegetable oil</b></div>
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<b>- 3/4 cup plain yogurt </b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup agave syrup</b></div>
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<b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div>
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<b>- 1 & 1/2 cup whole wheat flour premixed with 2 tsp baking powder</b></div>
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Spoon half the batter into a separate bowl and add</div>
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<b>- 1/3 cup unsweetened (sugar free) chocolate, melted</b></div>
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Layer the 2 batters (white and chocolate) alternately into a parchment paper lined loaf pan. Spoon even layers of each batter on top of each other, starting and ending with the white batter. Place the leaf pan carefully in the oven and bake for ~50-55 minutes (until the toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean) </div>
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Oh, the ends are the best, were the first to disappear - here's the proof:<br />
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The loaf screamed for some company, so <a href="http://cinna-moonbeams.blogspot.ca/2012/01/double-chocolate-walnut-brownie.html" target="_blank">brownies</a> 'magically' [not really, I baked them too] appeared, here they are ready to leave home, long day ahead:</div>
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(no walnuts though, just plain <a href="http://cinna-moonbeams.blogspot.ca/2012/01/double-chocolate-walnut-brownie.html" target="_blank">brownies</a> this time) </div>
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Here we are, DS and I, after the MS Walk (this year Earth Day and MS Walk were on the same day!) - have I ever mentioned carnations are my favorite flowers?</div>
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And this morning, Tuesday, April 24th, we woke up to this:</div>
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</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-42022285362884132262012-03-18T19:51:00.004-04:002012-03-18T20:41:52.833-04:00Honey 3-Bite* (Whole Wheat)<div style="text-align: center;">
* A loaf pan would do just fine, it's just that last time I went to HomeSense I found these super cute paper bakeware and I was dying to give them a try!</div>
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I guess it was just about time: what spells baking better than the evening of last day of March break - which happened to be a sunny one - after a super long walk in the park (with Kid and Dog, of course). And again, a super quick recipe, wouldn't want to spend to much of this gorgeous day in the kitchen!</div>
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Festive enough for a back-to-school-snack, yummy enough to not really care about the looks :)</div>
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I had 12 paper bakeware pieces and used them all (recipe would yield enough for a regular sized loaf pan).</div>
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Preheat oven at 350F.</div>
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In a large bowl, add the following, mixing well after each addition:</div>
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<b>- 2 whole eggs</b></div>
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<b>- 2/3 cup vegetable oil</b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup honey (I used organic unpasteurized Acacia honey)</b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Balkan style or Greek)</b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div>
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<b>- 2 cups whole wheat flour</b></div>
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<b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></div>
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Mix until all ingredients just combined, do not overmix. I divided the batter among the 12 paper bakeware pieces, if using a loaf pan, line with parchment paper.</div>
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Optional: <b style="color: magenta;">thinly cut apple slices for decor (or raisins, chocolate chips, etc)</b></div>
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Bake for ~25-30 min for smaller sized pans, or 45-50 min for regular sized loaf pan.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5du9M0flIE/T2Z0MVehySI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/HjejTTKn7pc/s1600/IMG_4918-1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5du9M0flIE/T2Z0MVehySI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/HjejTTKn7pc/s640/IMG_4918-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-81725823220150435272012-02-26T13:04:00.000-05:002012-02-26T13:05:10.802-05:00Zucchini Muffins (whole wheat)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XvYVlIPJwmY/T0puwN7HJ9I/AAAAAAAAB4A/k2kOQ-BnyiE/s1600/IMG_4903-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XvYVlIPJwmY/T0puwN7HJ9I/AAAAAAAAB4A/k2kOQ-BnyiE/s640/IMG_4903-1.JPG" width="532" /> </a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Savory muffins - fluffy and tasty, and perfect on the go (spark the lunches at work with a bit of the <i>je ne sais quoi</i> that they're usually lacking).</div>
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Again, super easy recipe [especially when there's a kid around to grate the zucchini ;)], quick and easy as (almost) always. </div>
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Preheat oven at 350F. </div>
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Line a 12 muffin tray with cupcake wrappers.</div>
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In a large bowl, mix together:</div>
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<b>- 2 whole eggs</b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (such as Greek or Balkan)</b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup olive oil</b></div>
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<b>- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley </b></div>
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<b>- salt (to taste)</b></div>
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<b>- condiments (to taste: I've used paprika, cayenne pepper, and a dash of garlic powder)</b></div>
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<b>- 1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour</b></div>
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<b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></div>
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<b>- ~1 1/5 cup grated zucchini (~ 1 medium zucchini)</b></div>
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Mix all the ingredients until just combined, divide the batter into the lined muffin cups and bake for ~ 55-60 minutes (toothpick test!).</div>
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Muffins taste even better on the second day - since all the flavors had all time in the world [well, not really, just overnight :)) ] to blend and mix together.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nLA5sX8KlWs/T0pvBTg5i9I/AAAAAAAAB4I/Xy6cJCYWtgQ/s1600/IMG_4907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nLA5sX8KlWs/T0pvBTg5i9I/AAAAAAAAB4I/Xy6cJCYWtgQ/s640/IMG_4907.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-56007357321089662202012-02-21T18:42:00.003-05:002012-02-21T18:43:39.902-05:00Chocolate Strawberry Squares<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not the best picture in the world (see bellow, waaaay bellow), not the prettiest, best looking squares in the world, but! (here comes the good "but") among the best tasting baked goods in the world. Just trust me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fairly easy to make, even though involves a two-step process. Just kidding, 'two step process' sounds too high tech for a Sunday [yes, these have been made on a Sunday morning, the morning of February the 12th, to be precise, and only maze-like to-do lists and to-not-do lists prevent this posting to see the .... light (?) ]</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now on to the recipe:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Preheat the oven at 350 F.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In a large bowl, mix together:</span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 2 whole eggs</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1/2 cup agave syrup</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- pure vanilla extract</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1/4 cup unsweetened, organic chocolate chips, melted</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup whole wheat flour</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pour the batter into a parchment lined 10 in square baking pan. Bake for ~ 10 minutes, until set.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">In the meanwhile, in a medium bowl mix well with an electrical mixer:</span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup sour cream (or heavy cream)</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 4 tbsp whole wheat flour</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 whole egg </b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1/4 cup agave syrup (or honey for a slightly lighter color of this top layer)</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup strawberries (pieces, fresh or from frozen)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When the 10 minutes are up, remove the baking pan containing the bottom layer from the oven and carefully pour the strawberry layer onto the brownie.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bake for another ~ 40-45 minutes, until the sides begin to pull away from the pan, and the top layer is set.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cool completely before cutting into squares. The squares will probably look like this, but they're awfully tasty!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0yozE0uVqcQ/T0QrcfK5eSI/AAAAAAAAB34/9t6KZykdhvo/s1600/IMG_4899-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0yozE0uVqcQ/T0QrcfK5eSI/AAAAAAAAB34/9t6KZykdhvo/s640/IMG_4899-1.JPG" width="523" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-61178381490740912052012-01-29T14:31:00.002-05:002012-01-29T14:57:44.676-05:00Baked Oatmeal<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YYwfwYGK5jo/TyWdR-j1CwI/AAAAAAAAB3g/0czopMGVS8Y/s1600/IMG_4893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YYwfwYGK5jo/TyWdR-j1CwI/AAAAAAAAB3g/0czopMGVS8Y/s640/IMG_4893.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll start by stating the top five reasons I prefer baked oatmeal over the 'regular' oatmeal:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. The smell of freshly baked 'something' that invades the house</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. It looks and feels like a 'real food' (can even be cut into pieces!) as opposed to the mushy look and feel of the 'regular' oatmeal</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. The kid not only that he'd eat it, but loves it! Can't say the same about the mushy stuff.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. It's easily transportable - can be cut into squares or bars and taken to work/school as a mid-morning/afternoon snack</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. The flavors are nicely blended and have the luxury to take their time and develop nicely during baking as opposed to just adding fruits and vanilla to the stove top cooked oatmeal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Top (and only) reason I don't make baked oatmeal that often:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- The baking itself take ~45 min., as opposed to ~10-15 min. of cooking the oatmeal over the stove to - not ideal on a work day morning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vn21ME2bhaw/TyWd27cEjsI/AAAAAAAAB3o/dv2rFf11cL4/s1600/IMG_4885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vn21ME2bhaw/TyWd27cEjsI/AAAAAAAAB3o/dv2rFf11cL4/s640/IMG_4885.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I used a 10x10 square baking pan, and my recipe yields about 4 to 6 breakfast servings or ~ 12 snack-sized bars. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Preheat the oven at 350F.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In a large bowl, combine together:</span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup plain yogurt (Balkan style)</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1/4 cup honey**</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 whole egg</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- pure vanilla extract</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">After all ingredients combined, add:</span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 2 cups rolled oats (not the instant oats)</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup frozen raspberries (or your fruit(s) of choice)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pour the mixture into a parchment paper lined 10x10 square baking pan and bake for ~ 45 minutes (until top and sides are golden and all the liquid has absorbed).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy it warm or cold! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvUK-ebMLVg/TyWeKDNgEiI/AAAAAAAAB3w/m1ZiDCjf1oI/s1600/IMG_4889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvUK-ebMLVg/TyWeKDNgEiI/AAAAAAAAB3w/m1ZiDCjf1oI/s640/IMG_4889.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>**I used honey for this everyday type of recipe (especially since I've made it two days in a row), as opposed to agave
syrup which is not considered suitable (a lot of debating going on) for
daily use - but great for occasional use (although it's so tempting
to use it often because of its really low IG). </i></span></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-1718810035027505052012-01-24T08:45:00.002-05:002012-01-24T08:47:14.636-05:00Chocolate Cheesecake<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chocolate cheesecake for breakfast? Need you ask? Just bring it to me! [just kidding, 95% of the times, my breakfasts consists of plain yogurt (Balkan style) with flaxseed (seeds, not oil) and berries - strawberries today to be precise].</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V4WzfhQCP-8/Tx61PHjzwlI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/sEK0zC8CvaY/s1600/IMG_4870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V4WzfhQCP-8/Tx61PHjzwlI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/sEK0zC8CvaY/s640/IMG_4870.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But this cheesecake turned out fantastic! Irresistible! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The recipe is not complicated either, and makes enough for extra helpings (although...). It all started because the tub of ricotta gave me the look each and every time I'd open the fridge door. I've been brainstorming on how to get rid of it for the past few days, until the creativity stroke me last night. Turned out well!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Recipe goes like this:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Preheat oven at 350F.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the crust:</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Melt <b><span style="color: magenta;">1/4 cup butter</span></b> and pour it over a mixture of:</span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup rolled oats</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1/4 cup agave syrup</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Using the back of a tablespoon, press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-in round cake pan (lined with parchment paper and buttered - don't forget to butter the sides as well!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the filling:</span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 tub ricotta cheese (475g)</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1/2 cup agave syrup</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 large egg</b></span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- pure vanilla extract</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mix the above in a large bowl until just combined. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Add and stir in the mixture:</span></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 & 1/4 cup (unsweetened, organic) chocolate chips - melted</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Pour the cheese mixture over the crust and bake for ~ 1 hour, until the sides start to pull away from the pan. Let cool completely before cutting ( ideally, refrigerate before cutting - but it's completely understandable if you can't find the patience to wait that long). </span></div>
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<br /></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-68056910761088443302012-01-15T20:45:00.000-05:002012-05-28T12:17:48.720-04:00Double-chocolate Walnut Brownie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoxqzJDVnPA/TxN5zeoNuBI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/irbZLsT1DnE/s1600/IMG_4856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoxqzJDVnPA/TxN5zeoNuBI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/irbZLsT1DnE/s640/IMG_4856.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
This blog post was supposed to be about whoopie pies, but due to the unexpected disappearance of the butter milk, brownies came to the rescue today, 39 days (1 month and 8 days) after the National Brownie Day.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, National Brownie Day exists, it is celebrated on December 8th of every year, and was "introduced in the United States at the end of the nineteenth century and popularized in both the U.S. and Canada during the first half of the twentieth century" (<a href="http://www.nationalwhateverday.com/whatever-days/december/national-brownie-day/" target="_blank">source</a>). </div>
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(On a side note, today - January the 15th - is National Strawberry Ice Cream Day in the States.)</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Back to the brownies. My double-chocolate walnut brownies. Recipe makes ~16 squares (10 in square baking pan).</div>
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Preheat oven at 350F. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
In a large bowl, over the stove top melt together:</div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 1/3 cup (unsweetened, organic) chocolate chips</b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 1/2 cup butter</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When melted completely, add and mix well:</div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 2 whole eggs</b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 1/2 cup agave syrup</b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 2 tbsp cocoa powder </b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 1 cup whole wheat flour</b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fold into the mixture:</div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 1/2 cup chocolate chips</b></div>
<div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;">
<b>- 1/2 chopped walnuts</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pour the batter and spread evenly into a 10-in parchment paper lined baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes (or until brownie begins to pull away from the edges of the pan). </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cool completely before cutting. Oh well... I personally never follow this rule when I bake with chocolate chips - purely decadent, the melted chocolate chips trapped inside the hot brownie...mmmm.... Anyway, back to reality, cut in 16 pieces and enjoy as is, or topped with melted chocolate (which would make it triple-chocolate walnut brownie), shredded coconut, chocolate ganache, and so on.</div>
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<br /></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-34017368572793196702012-01-11T18:59:00.003-05:002012-01-11T19:07:10.024-05:00Orange Ginger Loaf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mmmh00ByW3U/Tw0FjSm7kmI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/dhu0gKo65aQ/s1600/IMG_4850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mmmh00ByW3U/Tw0FjSm7kmI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/dhu0gKo65aQ/s640/IMG_4850.JPG" width="640" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I go through a phase right now, when all my teas are anything-ginger, so it was about time the ginger went out of the cup and into the baking pan. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And since oranges are among the top 3 fruits I absolutely love, it was about time for them to hop in as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is another super easy recipe, just mix the ingredients together, pour into parchment paper lined pan and bake. Nothing more!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Preheat the oven at 325 F.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In a medium bowl, add together and mix well after each addition:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup vegetable oil</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 3/4 cup agave syrup</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 whole eggs</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tbsp grated orange rind</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (~juice from 1 orange)</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 tbsp ground ginger </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 cups whole wheat flour</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tsp baking powder.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pour the batter into a parchment paper lined loaf pan and bake ~ 1 hour. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yes, it's that easy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-37981281904271766832012-01-08T20:24:00.001-05:002012-01-08T20:29:42.864-05:00Chocolate Chip Cookies (whole wheat)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KcMYpv4sK1s/Two9hmTPYII/AAAAAAAAB2A/66G5HYb08jU/s1600/IMG_4842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J1tChH4zkTQ/Two9w3xl0fI/AAAAAAAAB2I/ShtkvcwO4dQ/s1600/IMG_4835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J1tChH4zkTQ/Two9w3xl0fI/AAAAAAAAB2I/ShtkvcwO4dQ/s640/IMG_4835.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">One of the easiest recipes of all times and the classic perfect little treat for the Sunday night before going back to school after the Christmas break. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Recipe takes less then 10 minutes to make. Another ~10 to bake. And you end up with 20 yummy cookies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven at 375 F.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In a large bowl, mix together:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup vegetable oil</b><br />
<b>-1/2 cup agave syrup </b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 whole egg</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Add:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">and mix well. Do not overmix.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fold in <b style="color: magenta;">1 cup (organic, unsweetened) chocolate chips</b>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Drop by rounded tablespoon (I used the ice cream scoop) onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for ~9-10 minutes until golden brown. Cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes then transfer on wire racks to cool completely.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Just a peek:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KcMYpv4sK1s/Two9hmTPYII/AAAAAAAAB2A/66G5HYb08jU/s1600/IMG_4842.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KcMYpv4sK1s/Two9hmTPYII/AAAAAAAAB2A/66G5HYb08jU/s640/IMG_4842.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-19715703672316306532011-12-01T11:11:00.000-05:002011-12-01T11:11:18.842-05:00Banana Bread (whole wheat)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZYsw4q0MN4/TteBIbrAnEI/AAAAAAAAB04/8xeqQbObF_Y/s1600/collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZYsw4q0MN4/TteBIbrAnEI/AAAAAAAAB04/8xeqQbObF_Y/s400/collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">It's never been a secret - everybody knows I love rain. No, I don't love rain, I adore rain. But I've been <a href="http://lovingmondays.blogspot.com/2011/11/craving-snow.html" target="_blank">craving snow lately</a> - and this hasn't been a secret either. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--4VW6ewgEXk/TteA4gHqjaI/AAAAAAAAB0o/mDbJ2ltaH0o/s1600/IMG_0404.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--4VW6ewgEXk/TteA4gHqjaI/AAAAAAAAB0o/mDbJ2ltaH0o/s640/IMG_0404.JPG" width="426" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It's been raining all day on Sunday - good ol' November rain - quietly raining, gloomy dark day, and all it was needed for this to become snow: a little bit of cold!</div><div style="text-align: center;">No such luck, so it was about time to put my new baking pan to work: the new baking pan in the shape of a happily smiling snow man, with a round jolly belly.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Quick to make - unfortunately not as quick to blog.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven at 350F.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In a large bowl, add the following, mixing well after each addition:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 whole eggs</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup raw pure honey</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup vegetable oil</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 ripe large bananas, mashed </b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 cups whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pour batter into a parchment lined loaf pan (9x5 pan) - I used my snowman pan which I've buttered. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Bake for ~ 45-55 min., <span style="font-size: small;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean. Let cool in pan, then transfer onto a wire rack.</span></span></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uhTCxoAL4TU/TteBHQmetpI/AAAAAAAAB0w/LVPo2uSCsn0/s1600/IMG_4791.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uhTCxoAL4TU/TteBHQmetpI/AAAAAAAAB0w/LVPo2uSCsn0/s640/IMG_4791.JPG" width="426" /></a> </div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-81888850700394673332011-11-17T16:51:00.001-05:002011-11-17T16:51:00.102-05:00Upside Down Cranberry Cake & I'm Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGRYFZl6ggM/Tr9NFqpe-iI/AAAAAAAABzs/WhHgDBoq9No/s1600/IMG_4618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGRYFZl6ggM/Tr9NFqpe-iI/AAAAAAAABzs/WhHgDBoq9No/s640/IMG_4618.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Yes, I know I've been MIA and behind with posting, but this is gonna change. Starting now!</div><div style="text-align: center;">So I'm back, with the upside down cranberry cake recipe that has been eagerly waiting to come out since the Canadian Thanksgiving. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Fairly easy to make.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven at 350 F.<br />
Butter and line a 9 in (23 cm) round cake pan.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">For the topping:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In a pot, over the stove top, mix together:<br />
<span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 2 cups fresh cranberries</span> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 1/3 cup butter</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 1/4 cup agave syrup </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- cinnamon</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- pure vanilla extract</span><br />
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Stir over medium heat until all the butter has dissolved and continue cooking for ~ 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">For the batter:</span><br />
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In a large bowl, mix together:<br />
<span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 1/2 cup unsalted butter</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 2 eggs</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 1/2 cup plain yogurt</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 1/4 cup agave syrup</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- pure vanilla extract</span><br />
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In a small bowl whisk together:<br />
<span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 1 & 1/2 cup whole wheat flour</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #cc33cc; font-weight: bold;">- 2 tsp baking powder</span><br />
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix well. Do not over mix.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Pour the cranberry topping mixture into the prepared cake pan. Make sure cranberries are evenly arranged on the bottom of the pan.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pour the batter into the cake pan, over the cranberry mixture, smoothing the top.<br />
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Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the cake starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.<br />
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Remove from oven and let stand for ~ 10 min. Run a knife around the edge of the pan and then invert the cake onto a serving plate.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41g6MB6nBXw/Tr9NS8HaxcI/AAAAAAAABz0/rwSuf7jPFSc/s1600/IMG_4595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41g6MB6nBXw/Tr9NS8HaxcI/AAAAAAAABz0/rwSuf7jPFSc/s640/IMG_4595.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-51069698559951769982011-10-09T13:33:00.001-04:002011-10-09T13:33:50.224-04:00Pumpkin Cinnamon Pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nko7gvS71Sg/TpHYsStY15I/AAAAAAAAByU/j5lKkn5r_w0/s1600/IMG_4587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nko7gvS71Sg/TpHYsStY15I/AAAAAAAAByU/j5lKkn5r_w0/s640/IMG_4587.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
Thanksgiving Sunday off to a deliciously good start - cinnamon pumpkin pancakes. Served with a choice of raw honey or Agave syrup. <br />
<br />
Super easy recipe, yields ~14-15 pancakes and goes like this:<br />
<br />
In a large bowl, mix together:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: magenta;">-<span style="color: purple;"> </span><b style="color: magenta;">1/4 cup plain yogurt (Balkan style)</b></span></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 & 3/4 cup pureed pumpkin </b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 5 tbsp agave syrup</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 whole eggs</b><br />
<b>- cinnamon </b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 & 1/3 cup whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tsp baking powder (magic powder)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Do not overmix!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Pour ~ 1/4cup of the batter into the pan and cook for about 3 minutes, until bubbles start to form and the bottom is golden brown. Flip over to the other side and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until lightly browned.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Repeat with the remaining batter.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Will be closely followed by pumpkin cranberry upside down cake!</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy Thanksgiving everyone!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-51579997997602204282011-09-05T21:43:00.000-04:002011-09-05T21:43:34.273-04:00Cheese Biscuits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZn4Oc8GKVY/TmV6S2-fhFI/AAAAAAAAByI/-dpzOC-4zQg/s1600/IMG_4396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZn4Oc8GKVY/TmV6S2-fhFI/AAAAAAAAByI/-dpzOC-4zQg/s640/IMG_4396.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9CWd1j6DUUQ/TmV6dRjK4VI/AAAAAAAAByM/rJcWITBh-n4/s1600/IMG_4403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is one of my favorite recipes of all times - and it's one of those super-quick-extremely easy recipes. Haven't made the cheese biscuits in a while, it was about time for a comeback.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven at 425F. </div><div style="text-align: center;">In a large bowl, add:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 3/4 cup grated cheese (I used 1/2 cup feta cheese and 1/4 cup cheddar cheese)</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 & 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Balkan style)</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- ~1/4 cup finely chopped parsley leaves (or any other herbs)</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 cups whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tbsp baking powder</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Mix all the ingredients together until they form a sticky dough. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Drop by tablespoons full onto an ungreased parchment paper lined baking sheet.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Brush each biscuit with beaten egg (<b style="color: magenta;">1 egg</b>, lightly beaten). Bake for ~ 20 min, until top goldens.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Serve warm or cold - they're awesome either way!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9CWd1j6DUUQ/TmV6dRjK4VI/AAAAAAAAByM/rJcWITBh-n4/s1600/IMG_4403.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9CWd1j6DUUQ/TmV6dRjK4VI/AAAAAAAAByM/rJcWITBh-n4/s640/IMG_4403.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-2222750343687451162011-08-29T19:53:00.000-04:002011-08-29T19:53:13.338-04:00To Heaven and Back - Clovermead Apiaries<div style="text-align: center;">Peaceful and fascinating place!</div><div style="text-align: center;">It's just a short drive away from our home - have no idea why it took us so long to visit! I was expecting a cute nice place, flowers and bees: found all these and even more! It felt like taking my eyes and brain to the spa, and giving my memories a nice long massage (oh, the apple trees!) . And on top of that, we came back home with a box full of yumminess. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
Here's what we got:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-si7kmqbMe9Y/TlwOv0Dfn5I/AAAAAAAABxo/AIJYS_L_BMs/s1600/IMG_4387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-si7kmqbMe9Y/TlwOv0Dfn5I/AAAAAAAABxo/AIJYS_L_BMs/s640/IMG_4387.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">- organic cider vinegar (unpasteurized, un-filtered, aged in wood)</div><div style="text-align: center;">- pure raw honey</div><div style="text-align: center;">- pure bee pollen</div><div style="text-align: center;">- chocolate honey spread (it's got "chocolate, honey" listed for the ingredients, I suppose it's made with dark chocolate or even cocoa powder since the honey itself is so sweet)</div><div style="text-align: center;">- ginger honey spread (just bought the trial version, and it' so good, spicy good, I'm going back for some more as soon as I get the chance)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And then some more: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IvdPXuAAoM/TlwOg6MoygI/AAAAAAAABxk/FlIykoEcXOc/s1600/IMG_4394.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IvdPXuAAoM/TlwOg6MoygI/AAAAAAAABxk/FlIykoEcXOc/s640/IMG_4394.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">- bee propolis</div><div style="text-align: center;">- raw propolis</div><div style="text-align: center;">- pure beeswax</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Now this is how heaven looks like:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBmnR9DMn6Q/TlwO93501SI/AAAAAAAABxs/YHVJfZgzUC8/s1600/Malahide-20110827-00789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBmnR9DMn6Q/TlwO93501SI/AAAAAAAABxs/YHVJfZgzUC8/s640/Malahide-20110827-00789.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ceQDSIp2O8/TlwPDgXVnxI/AAAAAAAABxw/mT-qKQtdx5Y/s1600/Malahide-20110827-00759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ceQDSIp2O8/TlwPDgXVnxI/AAAAAAAABxw/mT-qKQtdx5Y/s640/Malahide-20110827-00759.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">By the apple trees:</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AaeQH4iiEJw/Tlwk_GD_BfI/AAAAAAAABx4/OoqglEmPaTw/s1600/Malahide-20110827-00782-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AaeQH4iiEJw/Tlwk_GD_BfI/AAAAAAAABx4/OoqglEmPaTw/s640/Malahide-20110827-00782-1.jpg" width="510" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well deserved break! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YcazPppn6Rw/TlwPEsDZncI/AAAAAAAABx0/gwo_WDn3q6k/s1600/Malahide-20110827-00766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YcazPppn6Rw/TlwPEsDZncI/AAAAAAAABx0/gwo_WDn3q6k/s640/Malahide-20110827-00766.jpg" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br />
<a href="http://www.clovermead.com/">Here's Clovermead's website. </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-26788709000612206662011-08-18T08:45:00.002-04:002011-08-18T08:45:00.049-04:00Pumpkin Cinnamon Muffins<br />
<span id="goog_1155711063"></span><span id="goog_1155711064"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1eEmszRtpPk/TksOHBF0UeI/AAAAAAAABwg/sPkrTHY1TFw/s1600/IMG_4366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1eEmszRtpPk/TksOHBF0UeI/AAAAAAAABwg/sPkrTHY1TFw/s640/IMG_4366.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vCPf8wgyhA/TksONb-1cFI/AAAAAAAABwk/Wj_M1KFIvWU/s1600/IMG_4370-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">In celebration of the lovely sings that awesome September's almost here. Almost... Dreaming of leaves rolling in the wind, amber light, air starting to be crisp and healthy, almost pretty colors welcoming October, cognac mums, pumpkins, September skies - all the beautiful things. Almost there...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">12 happy pumpkin muffins waiting for September in my kitchen!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven at 350 F. Line a 12 muffin pan with paper liners.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In a large bowl add the following, mixing well after each addition:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 whole egg</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/4 cup agave syrup</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- cinnamon</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/3 cup vegetable oil</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup buttermilk </b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (pre mixed with 1/2 tbsp baking powder) </b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup pureed pumpkin</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;">Do not overmix! Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin pan and bake for ~ 25 minutes. </div><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vCPf8wgyhA/TksONb-1cFI/AAAAAAAABwk/Wj_M1KFIvWU/s1600/IMG_4370-1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vCPf8wgyhA/TksONb-1cFI/AAAAAAAABwk/Wj_M1KFIvWU/s640/IMG_4370-1.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-73913022709962046232011-08-16T22:53:00.001-04:002011-08-16T22:54:12.616-04:00Choux Puffs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n47Mi8W_RlU/Tkssb3jPPUI/AAAAAAAABwo/rnZ-hUUUAyA/s1600/IMG_4378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n47Mi8W_RlU/Tkssb3jPPUI/AAAAAAAABwo/rnZ-hUUUAyA/s640/IMG_4378.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or choux pastry, or cream puffs...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Anyways, they're cute. And tasty beyond cute. And can be filled with whatever the moment brings. Or craves. Strawberry and whipped cream, in this case.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Recipe makes about 15 puffs, and goes like this:</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven at 400 F.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In a heavy saucepan, place:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/4 cup butter</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup water</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">and bring to a boil. Remove fro the heat and add:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tsp salt</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Stir with a wooden spoon until mixture is smooth and return to heat. Continue stirring until the mixture forms a thick lump. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Remove from heat and beat with an electric mixer for one minute or two to release the heat. Once cooled, add:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 whole eggs lightly beaten</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">and continue to mix until the mixture forms a think paste.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
Place on parchment paper lined cookie sheet in spoonfulls, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake at 400F for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350F and bake for ~ 15 more minutes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Remove from oven, make a small slit on the side of each shell to release the steam, and let cool completely on wire racks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">For assembling the cream puffs: slit each shell in half and fill the bottom part with the filling of choice. Place the top part of the shell on top of the filling. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JDvW2g5cqjg/TksseYrLaBI/AAAAAAAABws/MQx61-IpwiE/s1600/IMG_4380-1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JDvW2g5cqjg/TksseYrLaBI/AAAAAAAABws/MQx61-IpwiE/s640/IMG_4380-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-64266454914797801292011-08-15T09:13:00.001-04:002011-08-15T09:14:38.015-04:00Cornbread<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HC988Xp6IQk/TkkLxK5MxLI/AAAAAAAABwU/elOtePp40AE/s1600/IMG_4352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HC988Xp6IQk/TkkLxK5MxLI/AAAAAAAABwU/elOtePp40AE/s640/IMG_4352.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jwFRxD9D1D0/TkkL-wwY9_I/AAAAAAAABwY/W27HN-uWSuo/s1600/IMG_4358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cravings on a rainy Sunday - ok, it's not sweet, but it's still baking. Best companion for a glass of cold buttermilk while watching the beautiful rain.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And easy to make.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And bakes so quick!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Recipe goes like this: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven at 400F.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In a medium bowl, mix well:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 whole egg</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/4 cup vegetable oil</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup buttermilk</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- salt (to taste)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then add:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup cornmeal</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tbsp baking powder.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Mix until well combined and transfer the mixture into a 8in square pan lined with parchment paper.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Bake for ~ 20 until golden. Wait until cools completely before cutting. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jwFRxD9D1D0/TkkL-wwY9_I/AAAAAAAABwY/W27HN-uWSuo/s1600/IMG_4358.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jwFRxD9D1D0/TkkL-wwY9_I/AAAAAAAABwY/W27HN-uWSuo/s640/IMG_4358.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-41779755119090506612011-08-04T19:52:00.001-04:002011-08-04T21:43:43.471-04:00Coconut Peach Pudding (Coconut Heaven - Part I)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_j1oBpp9YM/TjsssHLLhTI/AAAAAAAABvw/5bo1vohCnCc/s1600/IMG_4346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_j1oBpp9YM/TjsssHLLhTI/AAAAAAAABvw/5bo1vohCnCc/s640/IMG_4346.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dCMazz7qXjw/Tjss_d9rfCI/AAAAAAAABv0/KSMFkOfq8m4/s1600/IMG_4347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Tuesday inspiration (yes, it was on a Tuesday) brought me to coconut heaven - part I. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">My lil' A. is vacationing under the Texan sun and this means green light for coconut for us at home! He hates coconut, I love coconut! In my efforts of being a good Mom I usually avoid coconut - except for the song where you 'put the lime in the coconut, you drink 'em both together'.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The beginning of a beautiful journey - the coconut and I (have I mentioned 'coconut' enough times already?)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dCMazz7qXjw/Tjss_d9rfCI/AAAAAAAABv0/KSMFkOfq8m4/s1600/IMG_4347.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dCMazz7qXjw/Tjss_d9rfCI/AAAAAAAABv0/KSMFkOfq8m4/s640/IMG_4347.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Preheat oven at 350F.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">In a large bowl, mix together:</span></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup coconut milk</b></span></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 4 tbsp agave syrup</b></span></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 2 whole eggs</b></span></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>- 1 cup shredded coconut *</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pour the mixture into a buttered porcelain quiche pan (or parchment paper lined loaf pan).</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bake for 15 min until set. Remove from oven and add the <b><span style="color: magenta;">thin cut slices from ~2 peaches</span></b>. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">(*would've preferred it better with just 3/4 cup shredded coconut) </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Yup, it's that simple!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fx9oSfN3L0M/TjstPtHeJhI/AAAAAAAABv4/jq_9PxmETw4/s1600/IMG_4350.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fx9oSfN3L0M/TjstPtHeJhI/AAAAAAAABv4/jq_9PxmETw4/s640/IMG_4350.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-75578724637927001012011-05-30T07:09:00.001-04:002011-05-30T07:09:00.452-04:00Summer in May - Smoothie Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B42Moule42U/TeMKs4xkAqI/AAAAAAAABuY/DaK8lhMTW-4/s1600/IMG_3947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B42Moule42U/TeMKs4xkAqI/AAAAAAAABuY/DaK8lhMTW-4/s640/IMG_3947.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">It was Sunday morning, Mr. Sun already up by the time I was. Just the month of May but felt like mid summer - breakfast served accordingly! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">For my lovely morning smoothie I only needed:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- the juice from 2 freshly squeezed grapefruits</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 small banana</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 nectarines</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 tbsp hemp seeds</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And voila! Joy in a glass!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-85268627262130777492011-05-22T13:25:00.001-04:002011-05-22T13:40:23.840-04:00Raspberry Filling Pancake Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5rQ8kQAwzMI/TdlDE2-ZLUI/AAAAAAAABuQ/3-_dH3bXlqw/s1600/IMG_3925-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5rQ8kQAwzMI/TdlDE2-ZLUI/AAAAAAAABuQ/3-_dH3bXlqw/s640/IMG_3925-1.JPG" width="425" /> </a> </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tuCsne5FXTk/TdlDQIbxy6I/AAAAAAAABuU/8VHb819kT9o/s1600/IMG_3933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tuCsne5FXTk/TdlDQIbxy6I/AAAAAAAABuU/8VHb819kT9o/s640/IMG_3933.JPG" width="640" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sunday again. Therefore: pancakes! But with a touch of raspberry. And in the shape of a cake. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Super easy recipe, serves 4, and turns breakfast into celebrations. No need to look far for reasons to celebrate: it's Sunday, gorgeous rainy morning, clear sunny afternoon, it's quiet and nice, finished my book for the Forest City (doesn't 'Forest City' sound simply lovely?) Bookclub first meetup, got a chance to be walking in the rain with Dog, and even got a chance to continue reading through the book I was reading at the time the meetup was announced. It's barely past noon and feels like entire day of lovely!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On to the pancake cake with raspberry filling:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>For the pancakes: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In a large bowl, add together and mix well:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup plain yogurt (Balkan or Greek style)</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 tbsp Agave syrup</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 whole egg</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2/3 cup whole wheat flour</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 tsp baking powder</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Pour ~ 1/4cup of the batter into the pan and cook for about 3 minutes, until bubbles start to form and the bottom is golden brown. Flip over to the other side and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until lightly browned.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Repeat with the remaining batter. Makes 7 pancakes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>For the filling</b>, mix together until smooth and fluffy:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 package (~225 g) ricotta cheese</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 cup fresh raspberries (or frozen)</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- a little bit of honey (agave syrup will turn the mixture brown)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Divide the mixture into 7 equal part and spread over each pancake. Stack the pancakes one on top of the other. Decorate with raspberries. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-80488972918958934492011-05-16T21:42:00.001-04:002011-05-22T13:26:03.949-04:00Creamy Peach Tart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GR-n_LMuP64/TdHRXNBAo8I/AAAAAAAABuM/xOEy3ssoU4E/s1600/IMG_3919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GR-n_LMuP64/TdHRXNBAo8I/AAAAAAAABuM/xOEy3ssoU4E/s640/IMG_3919.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Sunday night and reading The Help (by Kathryn Stockett) for the first meeting of a brand new book club in town. Minny was peeling peaches in my book, page something, and the crave hit me - and manifested itself in the form of Creamy Vanilla Peach Tart.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Started by preheating the oven at 350F.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">For the shell (classical tart shell), used a medium bowl and added the following:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup butter (room temperature)</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 1/4 cup whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 tbsp plain yogurt (Balkan style)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Formed the dough, shaped it into a ball and pressed it firmly into the bottom and sides of an ungreased 10-in tart pan. (oh, and poked the bottom using a fork). set aside.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">For the filling:</div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- puree 1/2 cup of sliced peaches</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup agave syrup</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1 whole egg</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Balkan style)</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- pure vanilla extract</b></div><div style="color: magenta; text-align: center;"><b>- 2 tbsp whole wheat flour</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Mix well until all the ingredients are combined. Pour the mixture over the unbaked tart shell. Optional: add extra peach slices on top.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Bake for ~ 45-50 minute, until set. Let cool before cutting.</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949875170493433034.post-10144589153195899582011-05-11T22:41:00.000-04:002011-05-13T16:30:19.601-04:00Raw Vegan Challenge - Days 4 & 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2tUYfVBSQs/TctJZ2xtfBI/AAAAAAAABuI/DBtHB5UFT8c/s1600/IMG_3908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2tUYfVBSQs/TctJZ2xtfBI/AAAAAAAABuI/DBtHB5UFT8c/s320/IMG_3908.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Both day 4 & 5 went by so smooth, bet they were passing by on their tippy toes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #38761d;">On day 4</b> I had a fruit salad to start the day (<b style="color: magenta;">banana, orange, shredded apple, hemp seeds</b>).</div><div style="text-align: center;">I moved over to some <b><span style="color: magenta;">walnuts</span></b> for snack.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Launch came and it was:<b><span style="color: magenta;"> cauliflower, broccoli, baby carrots, tomatoes and cucumbers</span></b>. I bought them at the market while shopping for a birthday present for one of my friends. Took me a while to convince the vendor I didn't want any dip with that.</div><div style="text-align: center;">For the next snack I had the most amazing and sweet<b style="color: magenta;"> muscat grapes</b>. Oh, the flavor!Added a handful of <b><span style="color: magenta;">cashew nuts</span></b> to them.</div><div style="text-align: center;">For dinner, my detox took a bit of a detour again, since I've attended a birthday dinner, and the<b><span style="color: magenta;"> salad</span></b> came with vinaigrette and crumbled cheese. Fighting those proved pointless so I gave up when the server brought it to the table. Oh well...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #38761d;">Day 5</b> started with just a <b><span style="color: magenta;">banana</span></b> on my way to the bus station - I was in such a rush so my plans for carrot-celery-apple juice seemed like a sweet fantasy at the moment - barely had time to prepare my lunch.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Luckily, the rest of the <b><span style="color: magenta;">muscat grapes</span></b> were waiting for me in the fridge at work. Oh, the flavor again, such joy!</div><div style="text-align: center;">For lunch I had the 'summer salad' I was craving so much, one of my favorites when I was a kid: <b><span style="color: magenta;">tomatoes, cucumbers and parsley leaves</span></b>. Nothing else! So simple and so good!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Quick snack: a handful of<b style="color: magenta;"> cashews</b> from my desk drawer at work.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dinner started with <b><span style="color: magenta;">grapefruit juice</span></b>. Continued with <b><span style="color: magenta;">shredded carrot, shredded zucchini, finely chopped dill, Brussels sprouts</span></b>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have my hopes high - day 6 will bring me the carrot juice!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And bonus happiness for today: few days ago, my beautiful and talented friend from far away sent me one of her creations from her online store, <a href="http://woolbanglebagsbyrodica.webs.md/">Wool Bangle Bags by Rodica</a> and I was so surprised that it got here so quickly! I was counting days, and never thought I'd have it so soon. Can't wait to wear it, mine is the white one with brown ribbon, so pretty - pictures just don't make them justice!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Be_Radianthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16164058479080013616noreply@blogger.com0