Thursday, November 15, 2012

Fool Proof French Bread

3 C. Warm water
2 Tbsp. yeast
2 Tbsp. sugar
2 Tbsp. shortening
1 Tbsp. salt
8 C. white flour
1 egg

Mix all ingredients EXCEPT EGG in stand mixer and let knead 8-10 min.

Divide dough in half

Spread out with fingers on counter until it's the length you want and about 12 inches across. Then roll up length wise. Pinch bottom and end under. Place seam side down on greased pan.

Beat egg until frothy. Then spread over bread. Score top with a knife

Let raise until double in size, about 15 min.

Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees.

Monday, November 12, 2012

Curried Lentils

As always, credit goes to OurBestBites. Not only is this super yummy, but it's also super  healthy! My kids had no idea that their second helpings nearly made me so happy I could cry.


Ingredients: 
2 cups red lentils (if you can find them…check the bulk bins or a Middle Eastern market)
10 ounces spinach (fresh and chopped or frozen and thawed)
1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you want to go vegetarian/vegan)
1 tablespoon curry powder or paste (I prefer curry paste)
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
*I also added a jar of canned chicken
Juice of 1/2 lemon or lime
Handful of chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish if desired
Additional yummy toppings include shredded coconut and chopped hard boiled eggs


Instructions: Combine all ingredients except for the lemon (or lime) juice and cilantro in the pot of a slow cooker. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours (or bring to a boil on the stove top and then simmer, covered, on low for 1 hour). Before serving, add the lemon juice and cilantro. This is delicious served over rice. Weight Watchers says this makes 6 servings, but I’d say it’s closer to 8-10.
For 8 Servings:
Calories: 87.3
Fat: .6
Carbs: 15.7
Fiber: 5.7
Protein: 6.6
Weight Watcher Points: 2