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	<title>The Way the Cookie Crumbles&#187; gluten free</title>
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	<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net</link>
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		<title>marinated roasted tofu</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/02/03/marinated-roasted-tofu/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/02/03/marinated-roasted-tofu/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:41:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[asian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tofu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetarian]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8578</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I cannot eat another hard-boiled egg. For a long time, it seemed like the perfect snack to bring to work – portable, easy, packed full of protein and nutrients. And, most importantly, I loved hard-boiled eggs. The creamy yolk balances the watery white, and I would try to get just the right ratio of each [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="marinated roasted tofu 10 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6810018825/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/6810018825_9ca30f6902_o.jpg" alt="marinated roasted tofu 10" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>I cannot eat another hard-boiled egg. For a long time, it seemed like the perfect snack to bring to work – portable, easy, packed full of protein and nutrients. And, most importantly, I loved hard-boiled eggs. The creamy yolk balances the watery white, and I would try to get just the right ratio of each in every bite.</p>
<p><a title="marinated roasted tofu 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6810018525/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6810018525_28bc834305_o.jpg" alt="marinated roasted tofu 3" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>A year and a half later, they’ve lost their charm. I considered switching to a new snack before it reached this point, but I couldn’t figure out what would have similar nutrient characteristics. I already eat plenty of beans, nuts, and dairy, so I needed a new protein source.</p>
<p><a title="marinated roasted tofu 5 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6810018571/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6810018571_a7ee6c6c5b_o.jpg" alt="marinated roasted tofu 5" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>Soy is a comparable replacement, nutrition-wise, for eggs, but digging into a cube of spongy tofu wasn’t appetizing. But tofu is perfect for marinating, because it soaks up whatever flavor you add. Then you can roast it to concentrate the flavors of the marinade and firm up the texture.</p>
<p><a title="marinated roasted tofu 6 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6810018621/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6810018621_7eb6a58246_o.jpg" alt="marinated roasted tofu 6" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>I’ve eaten this tofu every afternoon at work for three weeks, and so far it’s one of my favorite daily snacks. (Still doesn’t hold a candle to <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/08/26/whole-wheat-bagels/" target="_blank">my morning bagel</a>, of course.) I’m sure I’ll go back to hard-boiled eggs eventually; maybe in another year and a half, when I get tired of tofu?</p>
<p><a title="marinated roasted tofu 11 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6810018861/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6810018861_2bdcdc7345_o.jpg" alt="marinated roasted tofu 11" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>One year ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/02/02/pasta-e-fagioli/" target="_blank">Pasta e Fagioli</a><br />
Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/01/31/oatmeal-raisin-muffins/" target="_blank">Oatmeal Raisin Muffins</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href=" http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/02/03/world-peace-cookies/" target="_blank">World Piece Cookies</a><br />
Four years ago: <a href=" http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/02/02/chocolate-cupcakes-and-vanilla-frosting/" target="_blank">Chocolate Cupcakes</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/marinated-roasted-tofu.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Marinated Roasted Tofu</strong> (adapted from Jeanne Lemlin’s <em>Vegetarian Classics</em>)</p>
<p>Serves 4</p>
<p>I like these plain as a snack, but they also make a good sandwich filling.</p>
<p>The pictures might be confusing &#8211; the first couple times I made these, I sliced the tofu into slabs and then cut the slabs into thirds.  Later, I got annoyed with arranging so many little tofu bites (I always make a double batch) on the cooling rack, so I kept the tofu as larger slices and cut them in half after baking.</p>
<p>1 pound tofu, drained<br />
1½ tablespoons soy sauce<br />
1 tablespoon dry sherry<br />
1 tablespoon rice vinegar<br />
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil<br />
1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)</p>
<p>1. On a dishtowel, slice the tofu crosswise into eight slabs approximately ½-inch thick. Arrange the slices in a single layer; cover with a second dish towel and pat dry.</p>
<p>2. Meanwhile, mix the remaining ingredients in an 8-inch square container or baking dish. Add the tofu to the marinade in the dish; stir gently and set aside for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate, covered, overnight.</p>
<p>3. Heat the oven to 450 degrees. Arrange an oven-safe cooling rack on a baking sheet. Transfer the marinated tofu slices to the cooling rack. Roast until dry and browned at the edges, 25 to 30 minutes. (If you don&#8217;t have an oven-safe cooling rack, bake the tofu in a baking dish in a single layer.) The roasted tofu can be refrigerated for at least 5 days.</p>
<p><a title="marinated roasted tofu 12 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6810018897/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6810018897_a51a8cb129_o.jpg" alt="marinated roasted tofu 12" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>6</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>black bean avocado brownies</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/31/black-bean-avocado-brownies/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/31/black-bean-avocado-brownies/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:58:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[beans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chocolate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cookies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nuts]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8564</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I have developed an extensive spreadsheet of calculations in an effort to address to issue of brownies that aren’t bad for you, and what I have discovered is that brownies are bad for you. The problem is the chocolate. Chocolate on its own doesn’t taste good, as you’re probably aware. It needs sugar to taste [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="black bean brownies 13 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6799441121/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6799441121_1804d63ff9_o.jpg" alt="black bean brownies 13" width="660" height="439" /></a></p>
<p>I have developed an extensive spreadsheet of calculations in an effort to address to issue of brownies that aren’t bad for you, and what I have discovered is that brownies are bad for you. The problem is the chocolate. Chocolate on its own doesn’t taste good, as you’re probably aware. It needs sugar to taste good. Fat is nice too. Sugar and fat aren’t good for you.</p>
<p><a title="black bean brownies 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6799440779/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6799440779_85a59d5f9c_o.jpg" alt="black bean brownies 4" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>Sure, the internet is rife with recipes for black bean brownies, in which beans replace the flour, cocoa powder is the only source of chocolate, and, in Cara’s recipe, avocado adds some fat, but the healthy kind. I made <a href="http://www.carascravings.com/2010/02/a-treat-for-your-sweet-black-bean-avocado-brownies.html" target="_blank">Cara’s recipe</a>, exchanging 2 tablespoons of cocoa for 1 ounce of bittersweet chocolate to add oomph to the chocolateliness in a compromise between health and flavor that I thought was worthwhile. The brownies were very, very edible. They didn’t taste like beans or like avocado. They also didn’t taste much like chocolate.</p>
<p><a title="black bean brownies 7 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6799440897/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6799440897_0a36feb0ec_o.jpg" alt="black bean brownies 7" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>This is when I started calculating calories, trying to see how much chocolate I could add to black bean brownies before it defeats the purpose of making a healthier brownie. I started by looking at Cook’s Illustrated’s Lighter Brownies recipe, replacing the flour with beans and the butter with avocado. I also added some ground almonds, because the original brownies needed something dry to absorb some of the moisture and bulk up the batter.</p>
<p><a title="black bean brownies 8 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6799440945/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6799440945_b4890735ed_o.jpg" alt="black bean brownies 8" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>Once you add more chocolate and fatty nuts to the recipe, it has just as much fat as Cook’s Illustrated butter-containing light brownie recipe. It has twice the fat of Cara’s recipe – but half the fat of <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/04/26/brownie-comparison/" target="_blank">my favorite regular brownie recipe</a> (for the same size square). It has about the same amount of fiber and protein as Cara’s recipe, and two or three times the protein of a regular brownie recipe. (Regular brownies don’t contain any fiber to speak of.)</p>
<p><a title="black bean brownies 10 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6799441031/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6799441031_ba7163d235_o.jpg" alt="black bean brownies 10" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>What these brownies have going for them is that they’re chock full of fiber, high in protein, gluten-free, and full of good fats. What they have working against them is that they still have a significant amount of refined sugar, and they have more fat and therefore more calories than other black bean brownie recipes. They also have more flavor, more chocolate flavor, that is; in fact, so much chocolate flavor that this won’t just satisfy a chocolate craving, but it’ll cause a craving – for black bean brownies.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a title="black bean brownies 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6799440741/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6799440741_96edcd6cef_o.jpg" alt="black bean brownies 3" width="660" height="439" /></a><br />
<em>first batch</em></p>
<p>One year ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/02/01/great-grains-muffins/" target="_blank">Great Grains Muffins</a><br />
Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/01/28/butternut-squash-macaroni-and-cheese/" target="_blank">Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href=" http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/02/01/tofu-croutons/" target="_blank">Tofu Croutons</a><br />
Four years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/01/31/potstickers/" target="_blank">Potstickers</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/black-bean-brownies.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Black Bean Avocado Brownies</strong> (adapted from <a href="http://www.carascravings.com/2010/02/a-treat-for-your-sweet-black-bean-avocado-brownies.html" target="_blank">Cara&#8217;s Cravings</a> and Cook&#8217;s Illustrated&#8217;s Lighter Brownies)</p>
<p>12 medium squares</p>
<p>¼ cup almonds<br />
½ cup (3.5 ounces) sugar<br />
⅛ teaspoon table salt<br />
1 (15-ounce black) beans, rinsed and drained<br />
2 ounces avocado flesh (about ½ an avocado)<br />
3 ounces semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped<br />
2 tablespoons Dutch-processed cocoa powder<br />
1 tablespoon boiling water<br />
1 tablespoon vanilla extract<br />
½ teaspoon instant espresso powder<br />
½ teaspoon baking powder<br />
2 large eggs</p>
<p>1. Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat an 8-inch square baking pan with vegetable oil spray.</p>
<p>2. Process the almonds, sugar, and salt in a food processor until the almonds are finely ground, about 2 minutes. Add the beans and avocado; process until the beans are smoothly pureed, 4-5 minutes (some flecks of bean skins may remain).</p>
<p>3. Set a heatproof bowl over a saucepan containing one inch of simmering water. Add the chocolate; stir frequently until the chocolate is smooth, then remove from the heat. In a separate small bowl, whisk the cocoa, water, vanilla, and espresso powder together. Add the chocolate, cocoa mixture, and baking powder to the bean mixture in the food processor; pulse to combine. Add the eggs; process for 30 seconds, stopping twice to scrape the sides of the bowl.</p>
<p>4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack, at least 1 hour. Store leftovers, tightly wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.</p>
<p><a title="black bean brownies 11 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6799441067/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6799441067_1c037fbeb6_o.jpg" alt="black bean brownies 11" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>7</slash:comments>
		</item>
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		<title>lentil salad with squash and goat cheese</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/25/lentil-salad-with-squash-and-goat-cheese/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/25/lentil-salad-with-squash-and-goat-cheese/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:12:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[beans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cheese]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[salad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetables]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetarian]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8540</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Great Cookie Craze that is December perplexes me. I understand that with various holiday-related celebrations, there are more opportunities for feasts and drinks than at other times of the year, but the cookie mania goes beyond parties. People send dozens of treats out to families and friends, most of whom are making their own [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="lentil squash salad 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6758258581/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6758258581_c2dd700fa4_o.jpg" alt="lentil squash salad 4" width="500" height="333" /></a></p>
<p>The Great Cookie Craze that is December perplexes me. I understand that with various holiday-related celebrations, there are more opportunities for feasts and drinks than at other times of the year, but the cookie mania goes beyond parties. People send dozens of treats out to families and friends, most of whom are making their own dozens of cookies. The number of cookies in the world exponentially increases for a month.</p>
<p><a title="lentil squash salad 2 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6758258485/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6758258485_5fddbb438f_o.jpg" alt="lentil squash salad 2" width="500" height="333" /></a></p>
<p>The tide turns in January, which, without any significant celebration of its own, becomes the Undo the Holidays month. Poor January, but really, it isn’t such a bad thing. After all, healthy food tastes good too, particularly healthy food that includes goat cheese.</p>
<p><a title="lentil squash salad 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6758258529/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6758258529_17c4657112_o.jpg" alt="lentil squash salad 3" width="500" height="333" /></a></p>
<p>Tart goat cheese mixed with sweet winter squash is becoming one of my favorite flavor combinations, and kale, with its bitter notes, and lentils, with its meatiness, make it even better. Or, if kale isn’t your thing, arugula adds some freshness to the plate. Nothing about this salad feels like punishment for the past month&#8217;s excesses.  But have a cookie afterward anyway; December shouldn’t get to have all the fun.</p>
<p><a title="lentil squash salad 5 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6758258631/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6758258631_e66cbe14f8_o.jpg" alt="lentil squash salad 5" width="500" height="333" /></a></p>
<p>One year ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/01/24/nutty-chocolately-swirly-sour-cream-bundt-cake/" target="_blank">Nutty Chocolately Swirly Sour Cream Bundt Cake</a><br />
Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/01/19/chocolate-oatmeal-almost-candy-bars/" target="_blank">Chocolate Oatmeal Almost Candy Bars</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/01/23/herbed-lima-bean-hummus/" target="_blank">Herbed Lima Bean Hummus</a><br />
Four years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/01/21/salty-little-fishies/" target="_blank">Pissaladiere</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/lentil-squash-goat-cheese-salad.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Lentil Salad with Squash and Goat Cheese</strong> (adapted from <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Spiced-Pumpkin-Lentil-and-Goat-Cheese-Salad-355212" target="_blank">Bon Appétit</a> via <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2010/10/spicy-squash-salad-with-lentils-and-goat-cheese/" target="_blank">Smitten Kitchen</a>)</p>
<p>Serves 4</p>
<p>The original recipe calls for arugula, which I used the first time I made this. (Actually, the pictures seem to indicate I used mixed greens.) The second time, I used kale, which I like even more. I wrote the directions for kale into the recipe; if you use arugula instead, simply add it to the salad at the end. You can also use a smaller pot to cook the lentils if you’re not adding the kale.</p>
<p>¾ cup green lentils<br />
salt<br />
1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes, seeds reserved<br />
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon olive oil, divided<br />
1 teaspoon ground cumin<br />
1 teaspoon paprika<br />
1 bunch kale, ribs removed, leaves coarsely chopped<br />
4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled<br />
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, plus additional to taste</p>
<p>1. Place the butternut squash on a sheet pan. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, the spices, and ½ teaspoon salt; toss to coat. Roast the squash for 25 minutes, turning once. In a small bowl, mix the cleaned squash seeds with the remaining 1 teaspoon oil and a pinch of salt. Add the seeds to the baking sheet with the squash and continue to roast until the squash is tender and the seeds are browned.</p>
<p>2. Combine the lentils, ½ teaspoon salt, and 3 cups of water in a 3- to 4-quart saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the lentils are tender, 18-20 minutes. Add the kale to the pot during the last 2-3 minutes of simmering. (The kale will overwhelm the size of the pot at first but will quickly wilt.)</p>
<p>3. Combine the lentils, squash, kale, goat cheese, and vinegar. Season with salt, pepper, and extra vinegar, if desired. Serve.</p>
<p><a title="lentil squash salad 6 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6758258687/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7013/6758258687_51be61da97_o.jpg" alt="lentil squash salad 6" width="500" height="333" /></a></p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>asian lettuce wraps</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/22/asian-lettuce-wraps/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/22/asian-lettuce-wraps/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:11:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[appetizers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[asian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chicken]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mushrooms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pork]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetables]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8531</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I try not to order dishes in restaurants that I can easily make at home, but PF Chang’s lettuce wraps had so many raving reviews that I had to get them the first time I ate there. They were just as good as I was hoping, but were also simple – too simple to pay [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="asian lettuce wraps 5 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6747258285/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6747258285_0c7cef478a_o.jpg" alt="asian lettuce wraps 5" width="660" height="439" /></a></p>
<p>I try not to order dishes in restaurants that I can easily make at home, but PF Chang’s lettuce wraps had so many raving reviews that I had to get them the first time I ate there. They were just as good as I was hoping, but were also simple – too simple to pay someone else to make them for me. I made a mental note to try these at home.</p>
<p><a title="asian lettuce wraps 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6747258171/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6747258171_48c36a63d7_o.jpg" alt="asian lettuce wraps 3" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>That was years ago, but I still hadn’t gotten around to making this easy dish that promised to be just as tasty as it was healthy. That is why this recipe, which requires no great skill or time-investment, no new ingredients or techniques, made <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/12/2012-goals/" target="_blank">the list</a>. Sometimes I just need a little extra push, even if it’s from myself.</p>
<p><a title="asian lettuce wraps 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6747258235/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6747258235_838ffe7f79_o.jpg" alt="asian lettuce wraps 4" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>I don’t think I’ll need that extra push to make these again. It will be hard to forget how well the savory filling compliments the crisp mild lettuce and sweet hoisin sauce. I can’t compare them to the restaurant’s version, since it’s been years since I’ve had theirs. I won’t wait so long before I eat lettuce wraps again, not after this reminder of how good they are, and how easy they are to make myself.</p>
<p><a title="asian lettuce wraps 6 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6747258335/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6747258335_d2e981c7b1_o.jpg" alt="asian lettuce wraps 6" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>One year ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/01/20/stromboli/" target="_blank">Stromboli</a><br />
Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/01/14/maple-oatmeal-scones/" target="_blank">Maple Oatmeal Scones</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href=" http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/01/18/twice-baked-potatoes-with-broccoli-cheddar-and-scallions/" target="_blank">Twice-Baked Potatoes with Broccoli, Cheddar and, Scallions</a><br />
Four years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/01/18/not-a-chinese-burrito/" target="_blank">Mandarin Pancakes</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/asian-lettuce-wraps.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Asian Lettuce Wraps</strong> (adapted from <a href="http://rasamalaysia.com/lettuce-wraps-recipe/2/" target="_blank">Rasa Malaysia</a>)</p>
<p>Serves 4</p>
<p>I used a combination of ground pork and lean ground beef, but many recipes call for ground chicken. Use whatever lean ground meat you want; I particularly recommend chicken or pork.</p>
<p>Marinade:<br />
2 tablespoons soy sauce<br />
1 tablespoon dry sherry<br />
½ teaspoon sugar<br />
1 teaspoon cornstarch<br />
1 green onion, finely chopped<br />
chile-garlic sauce (optional)</p>
<p>Filling:<br />
1 pound lean ground meat<br />
1 tablespoon oil<br />
1 shallot, minced<br />
1 clove garlic, minced<br />
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger<br />
5 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded, caps thinly sliced<br />
1 (5-ounce) can water chestnuts, chopped<br />
2 green onions, thinly sliced</p>
<p>1 small head of Boston or Bibb lettuce, leaves separated, rinsed, and dried</p>
<p>Dipping sauce:<br />
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce<br />
1 tablespoon soy sauce<br />
1 tablespoon water<br />
½ teaspoon sriracha (optional)</p>
<p>1. In a large bowl, combine all of the marinade ingredients. Add the ground meat; use a fork or your hands to coat the meat with the marinade, breaking up large chunks. Set aside for 15 minutes.</p>
<p>2. Heat the oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it flows like water when the pan is tilted. Add the shallot, garlic, and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about one minute. Add the mushrooms and a pinch of salt and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften. Add the chicken with its marinade and the water chestnuts; cook, breaking the meat into small pieces, until no pink remains, about 6 minutes. Stir in the green onions.</p>
<p>3. Combine all of the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Serve with the meat and lettuce leaves, filling the lettuce just before serving to prevent wilting.</p>
<p><a title="asian lettuce wraps 8 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6747258379/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6747258379_d14bcb32c0_o.jpg" alt="asian lettuce wraps 8" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>4</slash:comments>
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		<title>rice noodle salad with peanut dressing</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/04/rice-noodle-salad-with-peanut-dressing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2012/01/04/rice-noodle-salad-with-peanut-dressing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:45:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[asian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[favorites]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nuts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[salad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tofu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetables]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetarian]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8473</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I was going through a protein rut recently, where I seemed to be cooking with beans more weeknights than not. We try not to eat meat on weekdays, we take hard-boiled eggs to work everyday as snacks, and cheese has too much fat. So what does that leave me? I’d completely forgotten about soy. Think [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="rice noodle peanut butter salad 5 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6639383097/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6639383097_561145a35c_o.jpg" alt="rice noodle peanut butter salad 5" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>I was going through a protein rut recently, where I seemed to be cooking with beans more weeknights than not. We try not to eat meat on weekdays, we take hard-boiled eggs to work everyday as snacks, and cheese has too much fat. So what does that leave me? I’d completely forgotten about soy.</p>
<p><a title="rice noodle peanut butter salad 1 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6639382865/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6639382865_a3c6f49def_o.jpg" alt="rice noodle peanut butter salad 1" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>Think of tofu as a sponge that soaks up flavor. True, on its own, it tastes like water and has a jello-like squishiness, but when you sauté it and soak it in sauce, it’s hardly discernible from chicken, except cheaper and easier to work with. Plus, it won’t dry out like boneless skinless chicken breasts.</p>
<p><a title="rice noodle peanut butter salad 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6639383001/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6639383001_882bd9155e_o.jpg" alt="rice noodle peanut butter salad 3" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>This sauce has plenty of flavor for the tofu to absorb. Ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, all mixed into creamy peanut butter, make for one heck of a combination. There are plenty of vegetables to provide brightness and crunch.  This was so good we had it two weeks in a row – alternating with dinners involving beans, of course.</p>
<p><a title="rice noodle peanut butter salad 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6639383045/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6639383045_d072720ed3_o.jpg" alt="rice noodle peanut butter salad 4" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>One year ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/01/05/pasta-puttanesca/" target="_blank">Pasta Puttanesca</a><br />
Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/01/02/asian-style-chicken-noodle-soup/" target="_blank">Asian-Style Chicken Noodle Soup</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href=" http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/01/04/pasta-with-broccoli-sausage-and-roasted-red-peppers/" target="_blank">Pasta with Broccoli, Sausage, and Roasted Red Peppers</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/rice-noodle-salad-with-peanut-dressing1.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Rice Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing</strong> (adapted from <a href="http://catesworldkitchen.com/2010/11/rice-noodle-salad-with-peanut-dressing/" target="_blank">Cate’s World Kitchen</a>)</p>
<p>My noodles stuck together in one big clump, so I chopped them up after cooking. I know that’s against standard noodle procedure, but in the end, it worked perfectly.</p>
<p>Serves 4-6</p>
<p>2 teaspoons olive oil<br />
1 pound tofu<br />
salt<br />
8 ounces rice noodles (linguine shape)<br />
½ inch fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped<br />
4 cloves garlic, chopped<br />
½ cup creamy peanut butter<br />
3 tablespoons soy sauce<br />
2 teaspoons brown sugar<br />
3 tablespoons rice vinegar<br />
1 tablespoon sesame oil<br />
¼ cup warm water<br />
chili garlic sauce to taste (optional)<br />
1 medium cucumber, sliced into half moons<br />
1 red bell pepper, cut into matchsticks<br />
2 green onions (green parts only), sliced<br />
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro</p>
<p>1. Heat the oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Slice the tofu lengthwise into ½-inch thick slabs; pat dry on a dishtowel. Transfer the tofu to the oil and cook, without moving, for 4-6 minutes, until browned on the bottom. Flip the tofu and brown the second side. Remove the tofu from the skillet and cut into bite-sized cubes.</p>
<p>2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a large pinch of salt and the rice noodles; cook until tender. (Check the package instructions for exact cooking times.) Drain and rinse the pasta.</p>
<p>3. In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, water, and chili garlic sauce until smooth. Fold the tofu into the sauce, then add the remaining ingredients, reserving some of the green onions and cilantro for a garnish.</p>
<p><a title="rice noodle peanut butter salad 6 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6639383141/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6639383141_42e3e6d59d_o.jpg" alt="rice noodle peanut butter salad 6" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
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		<slash:comments>17</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>berry chocolate ice cream</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/12/14/berry-chocolate-ice-cream/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/12/14/berry-chocolate-ice-cream/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2011 10:05:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[chocolate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[freezer friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fruit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tuesdays with dorie]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8404</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I’m not a big ice cream lover. When I saw how rich and thick and chocolately this custard was right before being churned into ice cream, I was tempted to leave it just like that. The only thing that stopped me was knowing I wouldn’t be able to resist something so like chocolate mousse. So [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="chocolate berry ice cream 6 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6509198857/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6509198857_2e035fb467_b.jpg" alt="chocolate berry ice cream 6" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>I’m not a big ice cream lover. When I saw how rich and thick and chocolately this custard was right before being churned into ice cream, I was tempted to leave it just like that. The only thing that stopped me was knowing I wouldn’t be able to resist something so like chocolate mousse.</p>
<p><a title="chocolate berry ice cream 2 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6509198693/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6509198693_31136c2287_b.jpg" alt="chocolate berry ice cream 2" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>So I poured it into the ice cream maker. After a few minutes, I tested a spoonful to see how it would taste when it was partially frozen. And then I tested more and more spoonfuls, until it became clear that any claims I might want to make about not loving ice cream are wishful thinking.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://slush.wordpress.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6509198727_391df43161_b.jpg" alt="chocolate berry ice cream 3" width="660" height="440" /><br />
</a><em>pre-frozen, like smooth rich chocolate pudding</em><a href="http://slush.wordpress.com/" target="_blank"><br />
</a></p>
<p><a href="http://slush.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Laurie</a> chose this for <a href="http://tuesdayswithdorie.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Tuesdays with Dorie</a>, and she has <a href="http://slush.wordpress.com/2011/12/12/tuesdays-with-dorie-unbelievably-good-chocolate-blueberry-ice-cream/" target="_blank">the recipe</a> posted. Other than adding a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors and using the boysenberry preserves I had in my fridge instead of buying blueberry preserves, I followed the recipe exactly.  I&#8217;m glad I did, because Dorie is right about how well the dark chocolate and bright berries compliment each other.</p>
<p>One year ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/12/12/oreo-cheesecake-cookies/" target="_blank">Oreo Cheesecake Cookies</a><br />
Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/12/12/english-muffins/" target="_blank">English Muffins</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/12/11/cranberry-orange-muffins/" target="_blank">Cranberry Orange Muffins</a></p>
<p><a title="chocolate berry ice cream 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6509198761/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6509198761_f655e458c0_b.jpg" alt="chocolate berry ice cream 4" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>lentil marinara</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/12/02/lentil-marinara-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/12/02/lentil-marinara-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Dec 2011 22:09:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[freezer friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[good as leftovers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[healthy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[italian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pasta]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetables]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetarian]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8372</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When my coworker came back to work after spending weeks in the hospital (and in my small town, that means a hospital over two hours away from home) with his sick newborn baby, I figured they could use a home-cooked meal. I thought tomato soup, homemade bread, and some nice cheese to make grilled sandwiches [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6443489951/" title="lentil marinara 5 by crumblycookie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6443489951_2211830d4a_b.jpg" width="660" height="440" alt="lentil marinara 5"></a></p>
<p>When my coworker came back to work after spending weeks in the hospital (and in my small town, that means a hospital over two hours away from home) with his sick newborn baby, I figured they could use a home-cooked meal. I thought <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/03/06/roasted-tomato-soup/" target="_blank">tomato soup</a>, homemade bread, and some nice cheese to make grilled sandwiches would be the perfect comfort food. Unfortunately, it would require a trip to the store and a couple free hours to cook, and when I saw how exhausted my friend was, I figured getting something to him soon was more important than getting the perfect meal to him.</p>
<p><a title="lentil marinara 1 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6443489685/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7156/6443489685_5f86c9d09b_b.jpg" alt="lentil marinara 1" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>So I made extras of what I was having for dinner that night. Spaghetti is warm and familiar, so fits the comfort food bill, and who doesn’t like the pasta and tomato sauce combination? The lentils, though, might seem strange to some people.</p>
<p>It makes perfect sense to me, because lentils are a great protein source, and while I can’t claim that they taste like beef, there is something meaty-like about them. Besides, what’s more comforting than knowing that your dinner is not only delicious, it’s healthy?</p>
<p><a title="lentil marinara 2 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6443489733/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6443489733_38d5b97cbf_b.jpg" alt="lentil marinara 2" width="660" height="439" /></a></p>
<p>And now I have <a href="http://annies-eats.com/" target="_blank">another friend</a> who needs comfort food after <a href="http://annies-eats.net/2011/11/24/giving-thanks/" target="_blank">the death of her father</a> on Thanksgiving day. Unfortunately, I can’t just bring her my leftovers, because she lives a thousand miles away. I don’t think virtual comfort food is quite the same, but at least she’ll know I’m thinking about her and her family and wishing them the best during a difficult time.</p>
<p><a title="lentil marinara 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6443489797/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6443489797_af98d574a5_b.jpg" alt="lentil marinara 3" width="660" height="439" /></a></p>
<p>One year ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2010/12/05/pasta-with-brussels-sprouts-and-pine-nuts/" target="_blank">Pasta with Brussels Sprouts and Pine Nuts</a><br />
Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/12/06/thai-style-chicken-soup-tom-kha-gai/" target="_blank">Thai-Style Chicken Soup</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/12/06/pumpkin-ginger-muffins/" target="_blank">Pumpkin Ginger Muffins</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/lentil-marinara.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Lentil Marinara</strong> (adapted from <a href="http://www.brannyboilsover.com/2011/04/12/pasta-with-lentil-marinara/" target="_blank">Branny Boils Over</a>)</p>
<p>6-8 servings</p>
<p>I simmered this for 30-45 minutes, but, if you have the time, I suspect that a longer simmering time while covered would really help the lentils absorb the tomato flavor.</p>
<p>I like canned whole tomatoes for sauce because they break down better, but if you don’t mind larger tomato chunks in your sauce, diced tomatoes will work fine. I chop canned whole tomatoes by sticking kitchen shears into the can and snipping away.</p>
<p>2 tablespoons oil<br />
1 onion, diced<br />
4 garlic cloves, minced<br />
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes<br />
½ teaspoon oregano<br />
¼ cup white or red wine<br />
2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes, coarsely chopped<br />
1 (1-pound) bag brown lentils, rinsed and picked over<br />
3 cups water<br />
1 teaspoon salt</p>
<p>1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, heat the oil until it flows like water when the pan is tilted. Add the onion and a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion just starts to brown around the edges, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.</p>
<p>2. Add the wine, scraping any browned residue on the bottom of the pan. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the remaining ingredients. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender and the sauce is thickened.</p>
<p><a title="lentil marinara 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6443489851/"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6443489851_3929335650_b.jpg" alt="lentil marinara 4" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>8</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>maple pumpkin pots de creme</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/11/17/maple-pumpkin-pots-de-creme/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/11/17/maple-pumpkin-pots-de-creme/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:31:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[custard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dinner party]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[thanksgiving]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8305</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The last few times I’ve made pots de crème, in any flavor, I’ve concluded that crème brûlée in that flavor would be far superior. Because what’s better than a dish full of sinfully rich baked pudding? Sinfully rich baked pudding topped with caramel. These custards are almost like pumpkin pie without the crust, and come [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="maple pumpkin pots de creme 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6351909443/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6218/6351909443_6ae4fe5ee7_b.jpg" alt="maple pumpkin pots de creme 4" width="440" height="661" /></a></p>
<p>The last few times I’ve made pots de crème, in any flavor, I’ve concluded that crème brûlée in that flavor would be far superior. Because what’s better than a dish full of sinfully rich baked pudding? Sinfully rich baked pudding topped with caramel.</p>
<p><a title="maple pumpkin pots de creme 1 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6351909509/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6115/6351909509_ccc45035d6_b.jpg" alt="maple pumpkin pots de creme 1" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>These custards are almost like pumpkin pie without the crust, and come to think of it, while I love flaky pie crusts on summery fruit pies, I think I could do without it for pumpkin pie. I love being able to focus on just the silky custard &#8211; or being able to snap through a layer of crackly sugar to the custard.</p>
<p><a title="maple pumpkin pots de creme 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6352652454/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6105/6352652454_22799c900b_b.jpg" alt="maple pumpkin pots de creme 3" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>I have a feeling I won&#8217;t be able to get away with skipping the crust on everyone&#8217;s favorite Thanksgiving dessert, but I wonder how people would feel about me torching the entire top of the pie? It&#8217;s tempting, but I suspect brûléeing is usually reserved for individual servings for good reason. Perhaps I&#8217;d better stick with whipped cream on top of pie and make individual pumpkin pots de crème when I want a crackly burnt sugar topping.</p>
<p><a title="maple pumpkin pots de creme 6 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6351909481/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6226/6351909481_c2515fc3fb_b.jpg" alt="maple pumpkin pots de creme 6" width="660" height="439" /></a></p>
<p>Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/11/16/vegetarian-lasagna/" target="_blank">Vegetarian Lasagna</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/11/16/stuffed-sandwich-rolls-aka-monsters/" target="_blank">Stuffed Sandwich Rolls</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/maple-pumpkin-pots-de-creme.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Maple Pumpkin Pots de Crème</strong> (adapted from Gourmet via <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Maple-Pumpkin-Pots-de-Creme-107388" target="_blank">epicurious</a>)</p>
<p>Serves 6</p>
<p>7 large egg yolks<br />
½ teaspoon cinnamon<br />
⅛ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg<br />
⅛ teaspoon salt<br />
1 cup heavy cream<br />
¾ cup whole milk<br />
¾ cup pure maple syrup<br />
½ cup canned solid-pack pumpkin</p>
<p>1. Adjust a rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 300 degrees. Line a 9 by 13 inch Pyrex pan with a dish towel. Arrange six 5-ounce ramekins in the pan. Bring about 2 quarts of water to a boil. In a large bowl, whisk together the yolks, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.</p>
<p>2. In a heavy saucepan, whisk together the cream, milk, syrup, and pumpkin; bring just to a simmer over moderate heat. Add the hot pumpkin mixture to the yolks in a slow stream, whisking constantly. Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a large measuring cup, then divide the custard among the ramekins (you may have some custard left over, depending on the size of cups).</p>
<p>3. Pour the boiling water into the towel-lined pan, coming about halfway up the sides of the ramekins and being careful not to splash water into the custards. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake until the custard just barely jiggles when shaken, a knife inserted in center of a custard comes out clean, and an instant-read thermometer registers 170 to 175 degrees from the center of a ramekin, 35 to 40 minutes. Transfer the custards to a rack to cool completely, then chill, covered, until cold, at least 2 hours. Serve with lightly sweetened whipped cream. (To brûlée the pots de creme, pat the custard dry, then top each ramekin with a light coating of demerara, turbinado, or a mixture of brown and granulated sugar. Use a kitchen torch to melt and brown the sugar.)</p>
<p><a title="maple pumpkin pots de creme 5 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6351909463/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6039/6351909463_8bc2226d94_b.jpg" alt="maple pumpkin pots de creme 5" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>cranberry sauce with port and dried figs</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/11/14/cranberry-sauce-with-port-and-dried-figs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/11/14/cranberry-sauce-with-port-and-dried-figs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:20:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[alcohol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dinner party]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fruit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[side dish]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[thanksgiving]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8289</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have you ever looked at the ingredients of canned jellied cranberries? They’re exactly the same as homemade cranberry sauce: cranberries, sugar, water. The first time I made homemade cranberry sauce, I eagerly took my first bite and then…huh. It tastes exactly like the canned kind. Don’t bother making cranberry sauce from scratch if it’s because [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6342725091/" title="port cranberries 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6019/6342725091_9078712a8c_b.jpg" width="660" height="440" alt="port cranberries 3"></a></p>
<p>Have you ever looked at the ingredients of canned jellied cranberries? They’re exactly the same as homemade cranberry sauce: cranberries, sugar, water. The first time I made homemade cranberry sauce, I eagerly took my first bite and then…huh. It tastes exactly like the canned kind. Don’t bother making cranberry sauce from scratch if it’s because you’re expecting it to taste better than it is from the can.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6342725113/" title="port cranberries 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6217/6342725113_424f68638a_b.jpg" width="660" height="440" alt="port cranberries 4"></a></p>
<p>But there are other reasons to make it from scratch. The first is that it’s fun. Raw cranberries are neat, pucker-inducing and hard and dry. Then when you cook them, they pop. It only takes 15 minutes and can be done up to a week in advance, so why not spend a few minutes playing with your food?</p>
<p>The other reason is that you can play around with flavors, personalizing the sauce. Orange is the most common addition and after doing that for several years, I was ready for more experimentation. Sweet port wine and balsamic vinegar seemed like they would complement the tart cranberries perfectly.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6342725037/" title="port cranberries 1 by crumblycookie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6099/6342725037_cae641a407_b.jpg" width="660" height="440" alt="port cranberries 1"></a></p>
<p>Even with all of the extra flavors in this – port, balsamic vinegar, figs, rosemary, black pepper, cinnamon – it didn’t taste so different from the stuff in the can. It had a warmer tone to it, and I liked the crunch of the fig seeds. But everyone would have been just fine with the canned stuff too.  And that&#8217;s okay, because the few minutes I spent making this cranberry sauce were well spent just for the fun of it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6343474228/" title="port cranberries 2 by crumblycookie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6037/6343474228_3b1a74730c_b.jpg" width="660" height="440" alt="port cranberries 2"></a></p>
<p>Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/11/14/african-pineapple-peanut-stew/" target="_blank">African Pineapple Peanut Stew</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/11/14/pumpkin-ravioli/" target="_blank">Pumpkin Goat Cheese Ravioli</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cranberry-sauce-with-port-and-figs.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Cranberry Sauce with Port and Dried Figs</strong> (adapted from Bon Appétit via <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Cranberry-Sauce-with-Port-and-Dried-Figs-105836" target="_blank">epicurious</a>)</p>
<p>At first, I served this as you see it here, but for the leftovers, I put the sauce through a food mill to separate the skins, and I much prefer the smoother version.</p>
<p>1½ cups ruby Port<br />
¼ cup balsamic vinegar<br />
¼ cup (1.75 ounces) packed brown sugar<br />
8 dried black Mission figs, stemmed, chopped<br />
1 6-inch-long sprig fresh rosemary<br />
1 3-inch cinnamon stick<br />
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper<br />
1 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries<br />
¾ cup (5.25 ounces) granulated sugar</p>
<p>Combine the port, vinegar, brown sugar, figs, rosemary, cinnamon, and pepper in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat to low and simmer 10 minutes. Discard the rosemary and cinnamon. Mix in the cranberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the liquid is slightly reduced and the berries burst, stirring occasionally, about 6 minutes. Transfer the sauce to a bowl; chill until cold. (Cranberry sauce can be prepared 1 week ahead. Cover and keep refrigerated.)</p>
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		<title>cauliflower with mustard-lemon butter</title>
		<link>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/11/13/cauliflower-with-mustard-lemon-butter/</link>
		<comments>http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/11/13/cauliflower-with-mustard-lemon-butter/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 13 Nov 2011 08:57:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bridget</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[citrus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dinner party]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[thanksgiving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegetables]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.crumblycookie.net/?p=8280</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[While you don’t want to serve plain steamed vegetables on Thanksgiving, maybe not every dish needs to be drowned in cream, you know? These cauliflower have enough flavor from spicy mustard and tart lemon to stand up to the rich foods at Thanksgiving, but they’re also light enough to serve with any weeknight chicken dish. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="mustard cauliflower 3 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6338743687/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6222/6338743687_feb6022c1f_z.jpg" alt="mustard cauliflower 3" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>While you don’t want to serve plain steamed vegetables on <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2011/11/03/notes-on-planning-a-thanksgiving-feast/" target="_blank">Thanksgiving</a>, maybe not every dish needs to be drowned in cream, you know? These cauliflower have enough flavor from spicy mustard and tart lemon to stand up to the rich foods at Thanksgiving, but they’re also light enough to serve with any weeknight chicken dish.</p>
<p><a title="mustard cauliflower 2 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6338743647/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6237/6338743647_7d85e06295_o.jpg" alt="mustard cauliflower 2" width="660" height="439" /></a></p>
<p>It’s almost too simple to provide a recipe for, as this is nothing more than roasted cauliflower topped with mustardy, lemony butter. Fortunately, that means it’s easy. Whether you’re making this for a busy holiday or on a busy weeknight, the cauliflower can be chopped in advance and the flavorings can be mixed. That means it takes even less time to make than green bean casserole – but it tastes a lot better and has a fraction of the calories.</p>
<p><a title="mustard cauliflower 4 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6339494808/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6222/6339494808_e91a4cddec_o.jpg" alt="mustard cauliflower 4" width="660" height="440" /></a></p>
<p>Two years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2009/11/13/pumpkin-biscotti/" target="_blank">Pumpkin Biscotti</a><br />
Three years ago: <a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/2008/11/13/bourbon-pumpkin-cheesecake/" target="_blank">Bourbon Pumpkin Cheesecake</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crumblycookie.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/cauliflower-mustard-lemon-butter.pdf">Printer Friendly Recipe</a><br />
<strong>Cauliflower with Mustard-Lemon Butter</strong> (adapted from Bon Appétit via <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Cauliflower-with-Mustard-Lemon-Butter-236506" target="_blank">epicurious</a>)</p>
<p>6 servings</p>
<p>If you aren’t a fan of cauliflower, I don’t see any reason that this method wouldn’t work just as well with broccoli or Brussels sprouts.</p>
<p>1 small head of cauliflower (about 1¾ pounds), cut into 1-inch florets<br />
1 teaspoon kosher salt<br />
2 tablespoons butter<br />
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice<br />
4 teaspoons Dijon mustard<br />
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel<br />
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley</p>
<p>1. Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet; sprinkle with salt. Roast until the cauliflower is slightly softened, about 15 minutes.</p>
<p>2. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the lemon juice, mustard, and lemon peel.</p>
<p>3. Scrape the mustard-lemon butter evenly over the cauliflower; toss to evenly coat the cauliflower and roast until crisp-tender, about 10 minutes longer. Transfer the cauliflower to a serving dish; sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.</p>
<p><a title="mustard cauliflower 5 by crumblycookie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24599366@N05/6339494828/"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6049/6339494828_a4df07e4d2_o.jpg" alt="mustard cauliflower 5" width="660" height="439" /></a></p>
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