Lily F, Author at thedancingcucumber.com thedancingcucumber.com Tue, 09 Jan 2024 13:24:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 Try This Simple Orange Zest Dessert For A Quick Treat https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-this-simple-orange-zest-dessert-for-a-quick-treat/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:48:41 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9404 Sometimes, you want something sweet after a meal, but don’t have the energy to whip up a chocolate cake or a fruit tart. In these cases, you need a dessert which is quick and easy yet satisfying. Enter this orange zest dessert. Made from only five ingredients, and seriously simple to whip up, this fruity […]

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]]> Sometimes, you want something sweet after a meal, but don’t have the energy to whip up a chocolate cake or a fruit tart. In these cases, you need a dessert which is quick and easy yet satisfying. Enter this orange zest dessert. Made from only five ingredients, and seriously simple to whip up, this fruity sweet treat will be a great hit in your home.

Ingredients (to serve 4):

  • 2 large oranges, zested and juiced
  • 2 cups of Greek yogurt or creme fraiche
  • 12 shortbread biscuits, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons of caster sugar

Instructions:

  1. Place the orange juice and caster sugar in a pan and heat until the sugar has dissolved.
  2. Construct the dessert by crumbling the biscuits in a layer at the bottom of a bowl. Top with yogurt, drizzle over the orange juice glaze, and then sprinkle over the orange zest. You can also top with a few nuts, if you like.

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]]> Try This Baked Yogurt For Breakfast, Brunch, Or Dessert https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-this-baked-yogurt-for-breakfast-brunch-or-dessert/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 08:59:38 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9405 Baked yogurt is a way of serving yogurt that’s just that bit more special and indulgent. This recipe, packed with protein and mainly sweetened with fruit, is perfect at breakfast or at any time of day. You can adjust the flavorings to suit you and your family, and the baked yogurt will keep in the […]

The post Try This Baked Yogurt For Breakfast, Brunch, Or Dessert appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Baked yogurt is a way of serving yogurt that’s just that bit more special and indulgent. This recipe, packed with protein and mainly sweetened with fruit, is perfect at breakfast or at any time of day. You can adjust the flavorings to suit you and your family, and the baked yogurt will keep in the fridge for up to a week, so it’s a great one to make ahead.

Ingredients (to serve 4):

  • 1 1/2 cups of Greek yogurt
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons of almond flour
  • 1 cup of mixed berries
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Suggested Toppings: peanut butter, almond butter, maple syrup, honey, chocolate spread

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease and line an 8-inch x 8-inch baking tray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt, almond flour and vanilla until the mix is pale and smooth.
  3. Pour into the baking tray and bake for 25 – 35 minutes (test it by shaking the tray, the center should be solid).
  4. Once cooled, slice into portions and let everyone top their own according to preference.

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]]> This Simple Fish Stew Makes For a Great Quick Dinner https://thedancingcucumber.com/this-simple-fish-stew-makes-for-a-great-quick-dinner/ Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:55:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9357 When you’re tired and hungry, you need dinner to be on the table as quickly as possible. This creamy, warming fish stew can be ready in under 20 minutes, and it’s as tasty as it is nutritious. Ingredients (to serve 4): View this post on Instagram A post shared by Terra e Mare Ristorante (@terraemareristorante) […]

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]]> When you’re tired and hungry, you need dinner to be on the table as quickly as possible. This creamy, warming fish stew can be ready in under 20 minutes, and it’s as tasty as it is nutritious.

Ingredients (to serve 4):

  • 2 fillets of smoked fish, such as haddock
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 tablespoon of butter
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1 cup of frozen peas
  • 1 lemon
  • Bread, to serve

Instructions:

  1. Heat the butter, milk, and black pepper in a pan.
  2. Once the milk is steaming, lower the fish fillets into the milk.
  3. After 5 minutes, add the frozen peas.
  4. Cook for a further 5 minutes, then add the juice of the lemon.
  5. Break the fish into pieces using a fork or spatula, then serve in bowls alongside bread and some salad.

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]]> These Buckwheat Based Cookies are a Great Gluten-Free Treat https://thedancingcucumber.com/these-buckwheat-based-cookies-are-a-great-gluten-free-treat/ Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:40:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9355 Going gluten-free doesn’t have to mean missing out on your favorite treats and bakes—it’s all about finding some great alternative grains to use in your baking. Buckwheat, despite its name, is an excellent gluten-free option, as it delivers an excellent nutty taste but has a similar texture to standard wheat. Check out these fantastic buckwheat […]

The post These Buckwheat Based Cookies are a Great Gluten-Free Treat appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Going gluten-free doesn’t have to mean missing out on your favorite treats and bakes—it’s all about finding some great alternative grains to use in your baking. Buckwheat, despite its name, is an excellent gluten-free option, as it delivers an excellent nutty taste but has a similar texture to standard wheat. Check out these fantastic buckwheat cookies, which have just the right amount of crumble inside.

Ingredients (to make 12):

  • 1 cup of buckwheat flour
  • 1/2 cup of gluten-free plain flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 3/4 cup of caster sugar
  • 3/4 cup of unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla essence
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons of milk
  • 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and line a baking tray.Cream together the butter and sugar.
  2. Whisk the egg and milk into the creamed butter and sugar.
  3. Sift in the buckwheat and plain flour, and stir in well.
  4. Stir in the cocoa powder and baking powder.
  5. Stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla essence.
  6. Roll out the dough, shape into cookies, and bake for 10-15 minutes in the oven.

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]]> 3 Types of Chocolate to Eat at Christmas https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-types-of-chocolate-to-eat-at-christmas/ Sat, 23 Dec 2023 08:48:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9358 Christmas is a time for indulgence, and it’s a time of year when chocolate really comes into its own. From cakes to cookies to after dinner sweets, you’ll find foods with a high cocoa content around every table at this time of year. Here are three traditional chocolates to include in your Christmas festivities. Pralines […]

The post 3 Types of Chocolate to Eat at Christmas appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Christmas is a time for indulgence, and it’s a time of year when chocolate really comes into its own. From cakes to cookies to after dinner sweets, you’ll find foods with a high cocoa content around every table at this time of year. Here are three traditional chocolates to include in your Christmas festivities.

Pralines

Filled with a delicious hazelnut-based cream, pralines are many people’s favorite when they’re looking for a rich and indulgent after dinner chocolate. You can find pralines in white, milk, or dark chocolate, or sometimes a combination of the three.

Mint Chocolate

The archetypal after dinner chocolate, mint chocolate can be a nice palate cleanser when a lot of rich food is being consumed. It’s not one to consume loads of, so if you’re looking for a small, sophisticated treat seek out some good quality mint chocolate.

Dark Chocolate

Most children will turn their noses up at the offering of dark chocolate, but if you’re drinking something sweet and rich like port or brandy, a good quality dark chocolate can accompany this beautifully. Seek out bars with a cocoa content of 60% or higher, and make sure that cocoa or cocoa butter is the first ingredient, rather than sugar.

The post 3 Types of Chocolate to Eat at Christmas appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> 3 Omelet Fillings That Never Fail https://thedancingcucumber.com/three-omelet-fillings-that-never-fail/ Sun, 17 Dec 2023 16:18:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=8665 Omelet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal at any time of day. Once you’ve honed your technique, add protein, herbs, or carbs to make your omelets more interesting and substantial. Prawn and Green Herbs Ingredients (for 2 omelets): Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elyn Hoi (@elynandbear) Tomato and Goats […]

The post 3 Omelet Fillings That Never Fail appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Omelet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal at any time of day. Once you’ve honed your technique, add protein, herbs, or carbs to make your omelets more interesting and substantial.

Prawn and Green Herbs

Ingredients (for 2 omelets):

  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup of fresh prawns
  • 1 big handful of mixed green herbs
  • 1 lemon

Instructions:

  1. In an iron pan, melt half of the butter over a medium heat.
  2. Add two whisked eggs, don’t stir the mix but gently move the pan.
  3. In another pan, fry half of the prawns in a teaspoon of oil.
  4. As the bottom of the omelet starts to cook, add the cooked prawns and half of the finely chopped herbs to the middle of the omelet.
  5. Fold the omelet in half, cook for another 2 minutes, and then serve.

Tomato and Goats Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 large tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup of soft goat cheese

Instructions:

  1. In an iron pan, melt half of the butter over a medium heat.
  2. Add two whisked eggs, don’t stir the mix but gently move the pan.
  3. As the omelet starts to cook on the bottom, add 1 sliced tomato and half of the goat cheese to the center of the omelet.
  4. Fold in half, cook for another few minutes, and then serve.

Grilled Eggplant and Chickpea

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 eggplant
  • 1/2 cup of chickpeas
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Grill the eggplant in a roasting tin for 30 minutes, until softened.
  2. In an iron pan, melt half of the butter over a medium heat.
  3. Add two whisked eggs, don’t stir the mix but gently move the pan.
  4. As the omelet starts to cook on the bottom, add strips of grilled eggplant, a handful of chickpeas, and a drizzle of olive oil to the center of the omelet.
  5. Fold in half, cook for another few minutes, and then serve.

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]]> These Simple Tricks Will Up Your Polenta Game https://thedancingcucumber.com/these-simple-tricks-will-up-your-polenta-game/ Mon, 11 Dec 2023 16:12:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9272 Polenta, a creamy carb made from ground corn, is a staple in many cultures and cuisines. If you’ve never quite managed that smooth, creamy texture, check out these tips on how to achieve the polenta of your dreams – it’s perfect served alongside grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or topped with eggs. Remember the Ratios A […]

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]]> Polenta, a creamy carb made from ground corn, is a staple in many cultures and cuisines. If you’ve never quite managed that smooth, creamy texture, check out these tips on how to achieve the polenta of your dreams – it’s perfect served alongside grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or topped with eggs.

Remember the Ratios

A simple rule to remember when it comes to cooking polenta is one to four. Take a small bowl and fill it with cold water. Tip four bowls of water into a pan, salt with half a teaspoon of salt, and let this come to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add one cup of polenta – this ratio will ensure that your polenta is neither tough nor dry or undercooked and sloppy.

Sieve and Whisk

For the smoothest, lump-free polenta, you will want to sieve the polenta into the boiling water whilst whisking it. This is quite a dextrous task, so ask a friend to help if needed. Keep whisking until the polenta thickens and begins to come away from the sides of the pan. You will want to keep stirring for five minutes or so beyond this point, but take care as the hot polenta can start to splutter and fly out of the pan.

Rosemary Butter

For a really flavorsome, creamy polenta, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and four sprigs of rosemary in a pan. Allow the rosemary to steep in the melted butter for ten minutes, then remove the sprigs of rosemary and stir the melted butter through the cooked polenta. This really improves the texture and taste of your polenta.

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]]> Try These Three Ingredients to Boost Your Tuna Mayo Pasta https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-these-three-ingredients-to-boost-your-tuna-mayo-pasta/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:28:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9210 Tuna mayo pasta is one of the most delicious and comforting pasta recipes you can encounter. Here are three extra ingredients that you can combine in any way you like to add a big boost to your dish. Ingredients: Instructions:

The post Try These Three Ingredients to Boost Your Tuna Mayo Pasta appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Tuna mayo pasta is one of the most delicious and comforting pasta recipes you can encounter. Here are three extra ingredients that you can combine in any way you like to add a big boost to your dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tin of tuna
  • 8 ounces fusilli
  • 1 cup of mayonnaise
  • Salt
  • Olive oil
  • 2 cups of Cheddar
  • A large handful of green olives (optional)
  • 1 tin of sweetcorn (optional)
  • 3 scallions (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring a pan of heavily salted water to the boil and add your fusilli. Cook until al dente and drain.
  2. In a bowl, mix up your mayonnaise and tuna. Add to your drained pasta and add olive oil for flavor and to stop it sticking too much.
  3. Grate your cheddar into your pasta and mix in.
  4. At this point, you can add any combination of your ‘extra’ ingredients. The saltiness of the olives and the sweetness of the sweetcorn complement each other very well, and the texture of raw scallions adds a nice crunch to your dish. Salt to taste and it is ready to serve!

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]]> Three Christmas-Infused Cocktails to Get the Party Started https://thedancingcucumber.com/three-christmas-infused-cocktails-to-get-the-party-started/ Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:26:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9128 There are certain flavors that cream the festive season, and what better way to enjoy them than in your favorite tipple? Check out these Christmas-inspired cocktails, each of which can easily be made alcohol-free by replacing the alcohol with an alcohol-free alternative. Ginger Spice Ingredients (serves 1): Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post […]

The post Three Christmas-Infused Cocktails to Get the Party Started appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> There are certain flavors that cream the festive season, and what better way to enjoy them than in your favorite tipple? Check out these Christmas-inspired cocktails, each of which can easily be made alcohol-free by replacing the alcohol with an alcohol-free alternative.

Ginger Spice

Ingredients (serves 1):

  • 1 shot of whisky
  • 2 shots of ginger wine
  • Lemonade
  • 1 inch sized piece of fresh ginger

Instructions:

  1. Mince the ginger, and put it in a cocktail shaker.
  2. Add the whisky and ginger wine, and shake well, on and off for five minutes.
  3. Strain into a glass and top up with lemonade. Add ice if you wish.

Cranberry Crush

Ingredients (serves 1):

  • 1 shot of vodka
  • 2 shots of cranberry juice
  • Half a lime
  • Lemonade

Instructions:

  1. Mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and lemonade juice.
  2. Squeeze some of the lime juice into the drink, and then garnish with the lime piece.

Vanilla Rum

Ingredients (to serve 1):

  • 2 shots of rum
  • 1 vanilla pod, seeds scraped out
  • Coca-cola

Instructions:

  1. Crush the vanilla seeds using the flat side of a knife. Place in a cocktail shaker
  2. Add the rum to the cocktail shaker, and shake vigorously for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour into a glass and add the Coca-Cola.

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]]> Two Bagel Toppings That Never Fail https://thedancingcucumber.com/two-bagel-toppings-that-never-fail/ Sun, 12 Nov 2023 16:47:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9100 Bagels are one of the most popular sandwich breads out there, and if you’re looking for a way to top yours, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these delicious combinations, each of which offers amazing texture and full on flavor. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nosh_ville (@nosh_ville) Marinaded Eggplant […]

The post Two Bagel Toppings That Never Fail appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Bagels are one of the most popular sandwich breads out there, and if you’re looking for a way to top yours, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these delicious combinations, each of which offers amazing texture and full on flavor.

Marinaded Eggplant and Sriracha Mayo

Ingredients:

  • 1 eggplant
  • 2 tablespoons of oil
  • 1 teaspoon of miso paste
  • 1 teaspoon of harissa paste
  • 1 tablespoon of sriracha mayo
  • A handful of fresh salad leaves

Instructions:

  1. Mix the oil, harissa paste, and miso paste together.
  2. Slice the eggplant in half and score its centre with a knife.
  3. Pour over the marinade and bake in the oven for 35 minutes.
  4. Spread the bagels with the mayonnaise and stuff with the cooked marinaded eggplant and the salad leaves.

Pickled Cucumber and Smoked Salmon

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 of a cucumber
  • 1 tablespoon of vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of water
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • Smoked salmon
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 tablespoon of cream cheese

Instructions:

  1. Finely slice the cucumber.
  2. Mix the water, vinegar, and salt together and submerge the cucumber pieces in it. Leave for half an hour.
  3. Spread the cream cheese over the bagels, and top with the salmon and cucumber.

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]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> Lily F, Author at thedancingcucumber.com thedancingcucumber.com Tue, 09 Jan 2024 13:24:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 Try This Simple Orange Zest Dessert For A Quick Treat https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-this-simple-orange-zest-dessert-for-a-quick-treat/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:48:41 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9404 Sometimes, you want something sweet after a meal, but don’t have the energy to whip up a chocolate cake or a fruit tart. In these cases, you need a dessert which is quick and easy yet satisfying. Enter this orange zest dessert. Made from only five ingredients, and seriously simple to whip up, this fruity […]

The post Try This Simple Orange Zest Dessert For A Quick Treat appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Sometimes, you want something sweet after a meal, but don’t have the energy to whip up a chocolate cake or a fruit tart. In these cases, you need a dessert which is quick and easy yet satisfying. Enter this orange zest dessert. Made from only five ingredients, and seriously simple to whip up, this fruity sweet treat will be a great hit in your home.

Ingredients (to serve 4):

  • 2 large oranges, zested and juiced
  • 2 cups of Greek yogurt or creme fraiche
  • 12 shortbread biscuits, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons of caster sugar

Instructions:

  1. Place the orange juice and caster sugar in a pan and heat until the sugar has dissolved.
  2. Construct the dessert by crumbling the biscuits in a layer at the bottom of a bowl. Top with yogurt, drizzle over the orange juice glaze, and then sprinkle over the orange zest. You can also top with a few nuts, if you like.

The post Try This Simple Orange Zest Dessert For A Quick Treat appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Try This Baked Yogurt For Breakfast, Brunch, Or Dessert https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-this-baked-yogurt-for-breakfast-brunch-or-dessert/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 08:59:38 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9405 Baked yogurt is a way of serving yogurt that’s just that bit more special and indulgent. This recipe, packed with protein and mainly sweetened with fruit, is perfect at breakfast or at any time of day. You can adjust the flavorings to suit you and your family, and the baked yogurt will keep in the […]

The post Try This Baked Yogurt For Breakfast, Brunch, Or Dessert appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Baked yogurt is a way of serving yogurt that’s just that bit more special and indulgent. This recipe, packed with protein and mainly sweetened with fruit, is perfect at breakfast or at any time of day. You can adjust the flavorings to suit you and your family, and the baked yogurt will keep in the fridge for up to a week, so it’s a great one to make ahead.

Ingredients (to serve 4):

  • 1 1/2 cups of Greek yogurt
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons of almond flour
  • 1 cup of mixed berries
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Suggested Toppings: peanut butter, almond butter, maple syrup, honey, chocolate spread

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease and line an 8-inch x 8-inch baking tray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt, almond flour and vanilla until the mix is pale and smooth.
  3. Pour into the baking tray and bake for 25 – 35 minutes (test it by shaking the tray, the center should be solid).
  4. Once cooled, slice into portions and let everyone top their own according to preference.

The post Try This Baked Yogurt For Breakfast, Brunch, Or Dessert appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> This Simple Fish Stew Makes For a Great Quick Dinner https://thedancingcucumber.com/this-simple-fish-stew-makes-for-a-great-quick-dinner/ Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:55:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9357 When you’re tired and hungry, you need dinner to be on the table as quickly as possible. This creamy, warming fish stew can be ready in under 20 minutes, and it’s as tasty as it is nutritious. Ingredients (to serve 4): View this post on Instagram A post shared by Terra e Mare Ristorante (@terraemareristorante) […]

The post This Simple Fish Stew Makes For a Great Quick Dinner appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> When you’re tired and hungry, you need dinner to be on the table as quickly as possible. This creamy, warming fish stew can be ready in under 20 minutes, and it’s as tasty as it is nutritious.

Ingredients (to serve 4):

  • 2 fillets of smoked fish, such as haddock
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 tablespoon of butter
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1 cup of frozen peas
  • 1 lemon
  • Bread, to serve

Instructions:

  1. Heat the butter, milk, and black pepper in a pan.
  2. Once the milk is steaming, lower the fish fillets into the milk.
  3. After 5 minutes, add the frozen peas.
  4. Cook for a further 5 minutes, then add the juice of the lemon.
  5. Break the fish into pieces using a fork or spatula, then serve in bowls alongside bread and some salad.

The post This Simple Fish Stew Makes For a Great Quick Dinner appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> These Buckwheat Based Cookies are a Great Gluten-Free Treat https://thedancingcucumber.com/these-buckwheat-based-cookies-are-a-great-gluten-free-treat/ Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:40:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9355 Going gluten-free doesn’t have to mean missing out on your favorite treats and bakes—it’s all about finding some great alternative grains to use in your baking. Buckwheat, despite its name, is an excellent gluten-free option, as it delivers an excellent nutty taste but has a similar texture to standard wheat. Check out these fantastic buckwheat […]

The post These Buckwheat Based Cookies are a Great Gluten-Free Treat appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Going gluten-free doesn’t have to mean missing out on your favorite treats and bakes—it’s all about finding some great alternative grains to use in your baking. Buckwheat, despite its name, is an excellent gluten-free option, as it delivers an excellent nutty taste but has a similar texture to standard wheat. Check out these fantastic buckwheat cookies, which have just the right amount of crumble inside.

Ingredients (to make 12):

  • 1 cup of buckwheat flour
  • 1/2 cup of gluten-free plain flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 3/4 cup of caster sugar
  • 3/4 cup of unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla essence
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons of milk
  • 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and line a baking tray.Cream together the butter and sugar.
  2. Whisk the egg and milk into the creamed butter and sugar.
  3. Sift in the buckwheat and plain flour, and stir in well.
  4. Stir in the cocoa powder and baking powder.
  5. Stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla essence.
  6. Roll out the dough, shape into cookies, and bake for 10-15 minutes in the oven.

The post These Buckwheat Based Cookies are a Great Gluten-Free Treat appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> 3 Types of Chocolate to Eat at Christmas https://thedancingcucumber.com/3-types-of-chocolate-to-eat-at-christmas/ Sat, 23 Dec 2023 08:48:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9358 Christmas is a time for indulgence, and it’s a time of year when chocolate really comes into its own. From cakes to cookies to after dinner sweets, you’ll find foods with a high cocoa content around every table at this time of year. Here are three traditional chocolates to include in your Christmas festivities. Pralines […]

The post 3 Types of Chocolate to Eat at Christmas appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Christmas is a time for indulgence, and it’s a time of year when chocolate really comes into its own. From cakes to cookies to after dinner sweets, you’ll find foods with a high cocoa content around every table at this time of year. Here are three traditional chocolates to include in your Christmas festivities.

Pralines

Filled with a delicious hazelnut-based cream, pralines are many people’s favorite when they’re looking for a rich and indulgent after dinner chocolate. You can find pralines in white, milk, or dark chocolate, or sometimes a combination of the three.

Mint Chocolate

The archetypal after dinner chocolate, mint chocolate can be a nice palate cleanser when a lot of rich food is being consumed. It’s not one to consume loads of, so if you’re looking for a small, sophisticated treat seek out some good quality mint chocolate.

Dark Chocolate

Most children will turn their noses up at the offering of dark chocolate, but if you’re drinking something sweet and rich like port or brandy, a good quality dark chocolate can accompany this beautifully. Seek out bars with a cocoa content of 60% or higher, and make sure that cocoa or cocoa butter is the first ingredient, rather than sugar.

The post 3 Types of Chocolate to Eat at Christmas appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> 3 Omelet Fillings That Never Fail https://thedancingcucumber.com/three-omelet-fillings-that-never-fail/ Sun, 17 Dec 2023 16:18:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=8665 Omelet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal at any time of day. Once you’ve honed your technique, add protein, herbs, or carbs to make your omelets more interesting and substantial. Prawn and Green Herbs Ingredients (for 2 omelets): Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elyn Hoi (@elynandbear) Tomato and Goats […]

The post 3 Omelet Fillings That Never Fail appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Omelet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal at any time of day. Once you’ve honed your technique, add protein, herbs, or carbs to make your omelets more interesting and substantial.

Prawn and Green Herbs

Ingredients (for 2 omelets):

  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup of fresh prawns
  • 1 big handful of mixed green herbs
  • 1 lemon

Instructions:

  1. In an iron pan, melt half of the butter over a medium heat.
  2. Add two whisked eggs, don’t stir the mix but gently move the pan.
  3. In another pan, fry half of the prawns in a teaspoon of oil.
  4. As the bottom of the omelet starts to cook, add the cooked prawns and half of the finely chopped herbs to the middle of the omelet.
  5. Fold the omelet in half, cook for another 2 minutes, and then serve.

Tomato and Goats Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 large tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup of soft goat cheese

Instructions:

  1. In an iron pan, melt half of the butter over a medium heat.
  2. Add two whisked eggs, don’t stir the mix but gently move the pan.
  3. As the omelet starts to cook on the bottom, add 1 sliced tomato and half of the goat cheese to the center of the omelet.
  4. Fold in half, cook for another few minutes, and then serve.

Grilled Eggplant and Chickpea

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 eggplant
  • 1/2 cup of chickpeas
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Grill the eggplant in a roasting tin for 30 minutes, until softened.
  2. In an iron pan, melt half of the butter over a medium heat.
  3. Add two whisked eggs, don’t stir the mix but gently move the pan.
  4. As the omelet starts to cook on the bottom, add strips of grilled eggplant, a handful of chickpeas, and a drizzle of olive oil to the center of the omelet.
  5. Fold in half, cook for another few minutes, and then serve.

The post 3 Omelet Fillings That Never Fail appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> These Simple Tricks Will Up Your Polenta Game https://thedancingcucumber.com/these-simple-tricks-will-up-your-polenta-game/ Mon, 11 Dec 2023 16:12:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9272 Polenta, a creamy carb made from ground corn, is a staple in many cultures and cuisines. If you’ve never quite managed that smooth, creamy texture, check out these tips on how to achieve the polenta of your dreams – it’s perfect served alongside grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or topped with eggs. Remember the Ratios A […]

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]]> Polenta, a creamy carb made from ground corn, is a staple in many cultures and cuisines. If you’ve never quite managed that smooth, creamy texture, check out these tips on how to achieve the polenta of your dreams – it’s perfect served alongside grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or topped with eggs.

Remember the Ratios

A simple rule to remember when it comes to cooking polenta is one to four. Take a small bowl and fill it with cold water. Tip four bowls of water into a pan, salt with half a teaspoon of salt, and let this come to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add one cup of polenta – this ratio will ensure that your polenta is neither tough nor dry or undercooked and sloppy.

Sieve and Whisk

For the smoothest, lump-free polenta, you will want to sieve the polenta into the boiling water whilst whisking it. This is quite a dextrous task, so ask a friend to help if needed. Keep whisking until the polenta thickens and begins to come away from the sides of the pan. You will want to keep stirring for five minutes or so beyond this point, but take care as the hot polenta can start to splutter and fly out of the pan.

Rosemary Butter

For a really flavorsome, creamy polenta, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and four sprigs of rosemary in a pan. Allow the rosemary to steep in the melted butter for ten minutes, then remove the sprigs of rosemary and stir the melted butter through the cooked polenta. This really improves the texture and taste of your polenta.

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]]> Try These Three Ingredients to Boost Your Tuna Mayo Pasta https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-these-three-ingredients-to-boost-your-tuna-mayo-pasta/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:28:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9210 Tuna mayo pasta is one of the most delicious and comforting pasta recipes you can encounter. Here are three extra ingredients that you can combine in any way you like to add a big boost to your dish. Ingredients: Instructions:

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]]> Tuna mayo pasta is one of the most delicious and comforting pasta recipes you can encounter. Here are three extra ingredients that you can combine in any way you like to add a big boost to your dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tin of tuna
  • 8 ounces fusilli
  • 1 cup of mayonnaise
  • Salt
  • Olive oil
  • 2 cups of Cheddar
  • A large handful of green olives (optional)
  • 1 tin of sweetcorn (optional)
  • 3 scallions (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring a pan of heavily salted water to the boil and add your fusilli. Cook until al dente and drain.
  2. In a bowl, mix up your mayonnaise and tuna. Add to your drained pasta and add olive oil for flavor and to stop it sticking too much.
  3. Grate your cheddar into your pasta and mix in.
  4. At this point, you can add any combination of your ‘extra’ ingredients. The saltiness of the olives and the sweetness of the sweetcorn complement each other very well, and the texture of raw scallions adds a nice crunch to your dish. Salt to taste and it is ready to serve!

The post Try These Three Ingredients to Boost Your Tuna Mayo Pasta appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> Three Christmas-Infused Cocktails to Get the Party Started https://thedancingcucumber.com/three-christmas-infused-cocktails-to-get-the-party-started/ Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:26:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9128 There are certain flavors that cream the festive season, and what better way to enjoy them than in your favorite tipple? Check out these Christmas-inspired cocktails, each of which can easily be made alcohol-free by replacing the alcohol with an alcohol-free alternative. Ginger Spice Ingredients (serves 1): Instructions: View this post on Instagram A post […]

The post Three Christmas-Infused Cocktails to Get the Party Started appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]> There are certain flavors that cream the festive season, and what better way to enjoy them than in your favorite tipple? Check out these Christmas-inspired cocktails, each of which can easily be made alcohol-free by replacing the alcohol with an alcohol-free alternative.

Ginger Spice

Ingredients (serves 1):

  • 1 shot of whisky
  • 2 shots of ginger wine
  • Lemonade
  • 1 inch sized piece of fresh ginger

Instructions:

  1. Mince the ginger, and put it in a cocktail shaker.
  2. Add the whisky and ginger wine, and shake well, on and off for five minutes.
  3. Strain into a glass and top up with lemonade. Add ice if you wish.

Cranberry Crush

Ingredients (serves 1):

  • 1 shot of vodka
  • 2 shots of cranberry juice
  • Half a lime
  • Lemonade

Instructions:

  1. Mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and lemonade juice.
  2. Squeeze some of the lime juice into the drink, and then garnish with the lime piece.

Vanilla Rum

Ingredients (to serve 1):

  • 2 shots of rum
  • 1 vanilla pod, seeds scraped out
  • Coca-cola

Instructions:

  1. Crush the vanilla seeds using the flat side of a knife. Place in a cocktail shaker
  2. Add the rum to the cocktail shaker, and shake vigorously for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour into a glass and add the Coca-Cola.

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]]> Two Bagel Toppings That Never Fail https://thedancingcucumber.com/two-bagel-toppings-that-never-fail/ Sun, 12 Nov 2023 16:47:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=9100 Bagels are one of the most popular sandwich breads out there, and if you’re looking for a way to top yours, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these delicious combinations, each of which offers amazing texture and full on flavor. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nosh_ville (@nosh_ville) Marinaded Eggplant […]

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]]> Bagels are one of the most popular sandwich breads out there, and if you’re looking for a way to top yours, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these delicious combinations, each of which offers amazing texture and full on flavor.

Marinaded Eggplant and Sriracha Mayo

Ingredients:

  • 1 eggplant
  • 2 tablespoons of oil
  • 1 teaspoon of miso paste
  • 1 teaspoon of harissa paste
  • 1 tablespoon of sriracha mayo
  • A handful of fresh salad leaves

Instructions:

  1. Mix the oil, harissa paste, and miso paste together.
  2. Slice the eggplant in half and score its centre with a knife.
  3. Pour over the marinade and bake in the oven for 35 minutes.
  4. Spread the bagels with the mayonnaise and stuff with the cooked marinaded eggplant and the salad leaves.

Pickled Cucumber and Smoked Salmon

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 of a cucumber
  • 1 tablespoon of vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of water
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • Smoked salmon
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 tablespoon of cream cheese

Instructions:

  1. Finely slice the cucumber.
  2. Mix the water, vinegar, and salt together and submerge the cucumber pieces in it. Leave for half an hour.
  3. Spread the cream cheese over the bagels, and top with the salmon and cucumber.

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