Thursday, September 29, 2011

Chocolate Chip Bar Cookies Gluten Free

Yes, they are gluten, wheat, egg, sugar and soy free, too.  Everyone in the family snarfed these down!


Chocolate Chip Bar Cookies Gluten Free
Makes about 16 cookies

In a large bowl combine then set aside

2 1/8 cups flour mix
1/2 cup tapioca flour
(1 packet Knox gelatin) -- I omitted this, but they were pretty fally-aparty!
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

In another mixing bowl with an electric mixer, beat until light

3/4 cup lard or butter

Carefully add while mixing

2/3 cup Stevia in the Raw Measurable
1/2 cup agave nectar or honey
2 tablespoons sorghum molasses

Add while continuing to mix

2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 1/3 cup warm water
1/2 tablespoon vanilla

Add the flour mixture from above quickly while mixing, then add and mix until just combined

1 cup sugar free chocolate chips
1 cup broken walnuts

Pour the batter into a 9"x13"x2" baking pan.  Bake the cookies at 350F for about 25 minutes.  The top should be golden but the inside soft -- but not so soft that it is like melted butter and sugar!

A decent use of instant mashed potatoes

We were given a bunch of instant mashed potatoes, so I'm working on ways to eat them up.  This casserole is pretty good, and gluten free, too.

Cheesy, Corn and Mashed Potato Bake
Makes about 6 servings

In a mixing bowl combine

4 1/2 cups instant mashed potato flakes
4 3/4 cups chicken broth (unsalted)
1/2 cup sour cream (or goat's milk yogurt if dairy free)
1 - 14 ounce can of corn, drained
1 cup shredded Italian style cheese or 2/3 cup Pecorocino Romano (made from sheep milk)
1 tablespoon roasted garlic or fresh garlic or 1 teaspoon garlic granules
1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt (if everything is unsalted)
3/4 teaspoon Adobo seasoning
2 tablespoons dried minced onion

Put the potato mixture into a 9"x13"x2" baking dish and smooth the top with the back of a spoon.  Sprinkle the top with

1 1/2 teaspoons parsley flakes

Bake at 350F for about 35 minutes.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Natural, Homemade hair conditioner and hair wash (Shampoo)


I've actually posted this before, but it is buried deep in this blog amidst a bunch of general chatter.  I thought it would be better to pull it out as a separate recipe to share.


Natural, Homemade hair conditioner and hair wash (shampoo)


These are soooo simple.  I've seen "recipes" all over the internet.  Usually they are complaining about using baking soda on the hair making it gummy, and vinegar leaving it slimy.  The problem is, they just have it wrong and backwards!  This makes my hair soft, shiny and bouncy.

Homemade Hair conditioner

Yes, I put it first on purpose.  With this method, the "conditioner" goes on first.  The vinegar helps take any chemicals and product residue out of the hair.  Use about once a week.

In a 2 cup measure or something of similar size, combine

1/4 cup cider vinegar or red wine vinegar (the cheap kind is just fine)
1 to 1 3/4 cup warm water, depending on how long the hair is.  Shorter, less; longer, more.

At the beginning of the shower, wet the hair, then pour the vinegar and water mixture over the head and let it rest there for 5 to 10 minutes.  Rinse it well and follow with hair wash.


Homemade Hair Wash (Shampoo)

The ratio I have is for normal to oily hair.  Use less borax if  the hair is dry, more if very oily.

Combine equal parts of baking soda and borax in a container with a lid.

To use:   Scoop out 1 to 2 tablespoons of product into a 2 cup measure.  Depending on how long the hair is -- shorter, less; longer, more.  Add about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of warm water to the dry mixture, and mix it well. Pour the emulsion over hair, working it in at the roots all over the scalp.  Rinse well with warm water.

Natural, homemade body wash and deodorant

I've actually posted this before, but it is buried deep in this blog amidst a bunch of general chatter.  I thought it would be better to pull it out as a separate recipe to share.

Natural, homemade body wash and deodorant


Homemade Body Wash

This one is sooooo easy!  All that is needed is plain baking soda and water.  Make an emulsion by combining in a 2 cup measure or something similar

1 to 2 tablespoons baking soda
1 1/2 to 2 cups warm water

Scoop out and pour the emulsion all over the body.  Rinse well.  So easy, and cheap, too!


Natural deodorant

I've tried a number of things.  Some folks like putting plain baking soda powder under their arms.  That didn't work very well for me.  The best of the easy remedies from items around the house I've found is coconut oil.  Just dip the fingertips into the coconut oil and apply to the underarms.  Reapply as needed.

Homemade laundry soap, dish soap and fabric softener

Ok, so I've tried some of the recipes floating around the internet for homemade laundry soap, dish soap and fabric softener.  I will report on the success I've found and share the recipes I've used.

First, the homemade laundry soap seems to be a success.

I used one whole bar of soap -- Yardley's Lavender Bar Soap.  I got it at Wal-Mart for 97 cents.  I purchased a 5 gallon bucket with a lid for about $3.  The Borax, (not boric acid), and washing soda, (not baking soda), are found on the aisle with the laundry products and are both less than $3 for a good sized box.

Homemade Laundry Soap

Shave, grate or otherwise break up 1 bar of soap into 4 cups of water.  Heat it over medium heat or so until the soap melts.  Make sure it is all the way melted.  I tried to rush things and ended up with lumps of soap I had to pick out of my bucket.

Add, stirring till dissolved

1 cup washing soda
1 cup borax

Remove the soap mixture from the heat.  Pour and 3 gallons of warm water into the bucket.  Add the soap mixture and stir it with a long spoon.  Let it rest overnight, then stir it to mix it uniformly.

To use:  Add 2/3 cup of the jelly-like soap to a regular washer for a normal sized load.

UPDATE 1-18-12:  My friend uses 1 bar Fels Naptha soap and 1 bar normal soap and 3 cups each of borax and washing soda.  It makes a nearly solid gel.  I've done this variation with 2 cups of the borax and washing soda and it is still quite stiff.  I'm still experimenting, but it appears that anything between these two extremes will work.

Also, no laundry booster is needed with these, just add 1/2 cup more of the finished soap!

Homemade Fabric Softener

This product works in a pinch, but I wouldn't recommend it for continuous use.  After about 1 1/2 months of using it, my clothes aren't in as nice condition as they were before I started using it.  However, when money is super tight, this only cost a little over a dollar for a gallon.  I go through a little less than a gallon a week.

I used Suave Naturals Conditioner, which I purchased at Wal-Mart for 97 cents, and plain white vinegar, which was only a couple of dollars for a gallon bottle.  I used a well-rinsed used milk jug to keep it in.

In a gallon bottle combine

16 to 18 ounces hair conditioner
3 cups vinegar
6 cups water

I usually add the conditioner and the vinegar together and mix them well by shaking the bottle vigorously.  Then I add the rest of the water.  Be sure and give the bottle a good shake before each use.  Use as any non-concentrated laundry sofener.

UPDATE 12-12-11
My friend has been using this formula for quite a while and had different results than I did.  She is using Herbal Essence conditioner and has had great results.  I wanted to report that.

UPDATE 1-18-12
I've been using a different brand of conditioner and this works quite nicely!  Just experiment till you find one that suits you.

Homemade Automatic Dish Soap

Again, this was less than satisfactory, but when in a pinch and the ingredients are around, it will work.

Combine equal parts baking soda and borax.  Fill both cups of an automatic dishwasher, and wash as normal.

UPDATE 12-12-11
I have another friend who has been doing this.  Her recipe is slightly different and she reports great results.  She's been using equal parts of washing soda (NOT baking soda!) and borax.  For the rinse agent, she's been using white vinegar and having very good results.

I, also, use white vinegar for the rinse agent with good results.

UPDATE 1-18-12
The variation with the washing soda is better than the baking soda one, but it still leaves a film on glasses.  If you're not washing glasses, then this would be a good mix.  However, we have glass-glasses at our house now, and it isn't satisfactory!

Monday, September 26, 2011

Gluten Free Cheesy Chicken and Mashed Potato Casserole

We had this for dinner tonight and it is very yummy.  It has dairy in it because we have added dairy back into our diet.  However, I will give suggestions on making this dairy free if it is necessary.  This could also be called Chicken Shepherds' Pie.

Gluten Free Cheesy Chicken and Mashed Potato Casserole
Serves 6

In a medium sized frying pan over medium-high heat, cook about 5 minutes or till translucent

1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium sized onion, 1/2" dice
4 medium sized mushrooms, halved and sliced thin
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper

Set this mixture aside to cool.

In a mixing bowl combine

1 cup sour cream (or goat's milk yogurt)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
1 cup chicken broth (watch out for commercial broths -- be sure and read labels)
1/2 teaspoon thyme flakes
1 teaspoon sea salt
3 cups chicken, cut up into bite sized pieces

Add the reserved mushrooms and onions with their juices.  Pour this mixture into an 8"x13"x2" baking pan and smooth it out.  Cover it with

4 slices Swiss cheese, broken up OR about 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Combine

6 cups mashed potatoes, well seasoned
1/2 cup sour cream (or goat's milk yogurt)

Use this mixture to top the casserole.  Drop dollops of potatoes across the top of the chicken and cheese filling.  Use about 2/3 of it before beginning to spread it evenly with the back of a spoon.  Continue adding the potatoes until the top is evenly covered and smooth.  Sprinkle the top with

1 1/2 teaspoons parsley flakes

Bake the casserole at 350F for about 30 minutes.  Enjoy!


Sunday, September 25, 2011

Really Good Gluten, Egg and Yeast Free Pizza Crust

Honest!  It is Really Good Gluten, Egg and Yeast Free Pizza Crust.  My previous version of crust is acceptable, but this one is much better.  I fixed it in a 9" pie pan and made Deep Dish Pizza.  It was way too much for just me.  If I do that again, I'll 1/2 the recipe.  I think it would be good pressed out thin and baked on a pizza pan, too, but I only needed the special crust for one person this time.

Really Good Gluten, Egg and Yeast Free Pizza Crust

In a mixing bowl combine

1 cup flour mix
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup tapioca flour (available inexpensively at Asian Markets)
1/2 cup dried milk powder (I used dried goat's milk.  I think you could omit this and just use whatever "milk" you tolerate, but it did make the dough nice)
1 tablespoon ground flax
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon thyme flakes (or oregano or Italian seasonings or all of them!)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Add and mix well

2 tablespoons olive oil

Finally, add little by little until the dough clings together enough to form a ball

1/2 to 3/4 cup very warm water

Form the dough into a ball and let it rest, covered, for 10 to 30 minutes.  Pre-heat the oven to 375F for pan pizza or 425F for thin crust pizza.


Pan Pizza
Serves 2

When ready to bake the pizza, grease a 9" pie pan well, then press the dough out evenly on the bottom and up the sides.  Pre-bake the crust for about 8 minutes at 375F.  Top it with desired sauce and toppings.

Note:  Watch out for processed meats, they very often have hidden gluten in them -- if they say "natural flavorings," just figure it is gluten!

Bake the pizza at 375F for about 20 minutes or it is becoming golden brown on top.


Thin Crust Pizza
Serves 2

Sprinkle a round pizza pan with cornmeal and press the dough out into a  12" circle.  Pre-bake the pizza crust for about 6 minutes at 425F.  Top it with desired sauce and toppings.

Note:  Watch out for processed meats, they very often have hidden gluten in them -- if they say "natural flavorings," just figure it is gluten!

Bake the pizza at 425F for about 9 minutes or it is becoming golden brown on top.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Turkey Bean and Bacon Soup -- gluten free

This is a pretty straight-forward recipe, and it's a good use for some of that leftover turkey.  The reason I don't use ham in my soup is because, I can't find, (or afford!), ham that is simply smoked.  Otherwise, it probably has gluten in it.  Those "natural flavorings" are usually gluten in processed meat.  There are several bacon brands out there that are free of "natural flavorings," thankfully.  However, when I can't find a safe bacon, I can usually find a safe sausage to use in it's place.  My family loves it, especially with a side of Corny Cornbread.  Yum!

Turkey Bean and Bacon Soup
Makes about 12 servings

In a large soup pot, (approximately 5 quarts), soak over night*

2 pounds small white or navy beans
16 cups (one gallon) water

*Alternate method:  Put the beans into the water and bring them to a boil over high heat for 2 minutes.  Turn off the burner and allow the beans and water to rest for one hour.  Continue as described.

Pick off any beans that are floating, then drain off the water.

Add to the drained beans

1 large sweet onion, chopped
4 to 6 carrots, chopped
The tops and ends of 1 bunch of celery (about 2 cups, chopped)
1 tablespoon garlic
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried parsley

Cover the beans and veggies with water or turkey broth, and simmer them for about 2 to 3 hours on medium-low heat.  Skim off any foam that appears on the surface and discard it.

About 45 minutes before serving, cook and cut into bite sized pieces

1 pound gluten-free bacon (or sausage)

Just before serving, add the bacon and

2 to 3 cups cut up cooked turkey

Season to taste with

Sea salt
Adobo
Lemon Pepper
This is a great make-ahead meal.  Eat part of it immediately, then save the rest for leftovers, or freeze it for meals at a later date.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Save our Supplements!

There is a link at the bottom of the article that will take you to another site. On that site you can either get information to call the powers-that-be or another link at the bottom of that page to send an email. Please, at least send the email. Supplements are important!
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/09/13/fda-to-ban-new-supplements-and-classify-them-like-food-preservatives.aspx?e_cid=20110913_DNL_art_1

Obama is an illegal alien?!?

I just sent the following letter to my Senators and Represenative. Will you join me? Maybe a citizens revolt is what we need???:
Dear ***,

It is apparent that hearings need to be held to determine whether or not Pres. Obama is truly a US citizen. His birth certificate is a forgery. (Seehttp://www.wnd.com/?pageId=342937) Also, his SSN appears to be invalid as well. (See http://www.wnd.com/?pageId=344461)

I urge you to begin an investigation immediately.

Sincerely,
Sharron Long

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Pecan Pie Bars -- Gluten, sugar and egg free

I made these about a year ago*, and they were sooooo good.  We took them to a volleyball game, and everyone with us gobbled them down.  No one even knew they were "special" -- free of wheat, gluten, dairy, eggs, soy and sugar!


*This is not the exact recipe I used at that time.  I just typed this out, so I can try it again soon.  I'll update (probably remove this note) after I do them again.


Pecan Pie Bars
Makes about 20 bars


In a large bowl with a pastry blender or with a fork, mix until crumbly


1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup lard
2/3 cup fructose
2 cups flour mix 
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon sea salt


Press the dough into the bottom of a 9"x13"x2" baking pan.  Bake the crust at 350F for about 10 minutes or until the surface is somewhat dry.  Allow it to cool while mixing the remaining ingredients.


In another bowl combine


3 tablespoons ground flax seeds mixed with 2/3 cup warm water
2/3 cup fructose
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup corn syrup (or agave or honey)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt


Mix the ingredients until they are combined.  Add and stir until they are combined


1 1/2 cup pecans (or walnuts)


Carefully pour the mixture over the baked crust.  Spread the gooey filling over the crust, arranging the nuts as necessary.  Bake it at 350F for about 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 275F and continue to bake for about another 20 minutes.  It should be soft-set in the middle when it is done.  Cool it and cut it into bars when finished.  Enjoy!


Update 9-13-11:
I made these last night.  For the flour I used equal amounts of cornmeal, cornstarch and shredded coconut.  I didn't have any butter so I used coconut oil.  I don't think I would recommend coconut oil unless your climate is below 72F because that is when coconut oil becomes liquid.  Right now, here in Oklahoma, it is always above 72F, so my bars came out a bit greasy.  Also, we served them right out of the oven, and they were a bit gooey because the crust had not set up yet.  Later, I checked and they were set up.  I think next time I do this I'll add Knox to both the crust and the filling.  It is definitely yummy with the coconut!

Easy Gluten (Wheat) Free Hamburger "Buns" and the easiest way to cook burgers

Hi!

Here are a couple of  really easy ways to have burgers, that my kids and I like.   They certainly aren't buns in the traditional sense, but they do give ways to enclose a burger, pick it up and eat it.  There's just something about sticking a big, juicy burger in your face that just doesn't get it with a knife and a fork!

Let's start with my preferred method for cooking burgers.  If I have frozen patties, I like to use my grill, however the taste of a burger made with fresh beef is definitely preferable to frozen.  These burgers are tender, juicy and flavorful.

Basic Burgers
Serves 4

1 1/3 pound ground beef
Sea salt
Lemon pepper
Divide the meat into four equal portions.  On a baking sheet, flatten out the patties into the desired size -- adding approximately 1/2" all the way around to the size that is desired in the end.  If a 4" patty is wanted, then flatten the meat to 5".  Also, when making the patties, make the edges a bit thicker than the center of the patty.  This will keep the burgers from shrinking into balls when cooked.  Season as desired with sea salt and lemon pepper.  Bake the burgers for about 10 minutes at 400F, (or 15 to 18 minutes at 350F.)  They will not get all brown and crunchy like they do on the stove top.  Instead, they will just look a medium brown.  Test them with a meat thermometer and ensure they have reached 180F before serving.  Pour off the cooking fat and reserve for later use or discard as desired.



Wheat and Gluten Free Hamburger Buns

Below are two different methods for getting that burger into that mouth.  Yum!

Method 1:
Makes 1 serving

Cook 2 corn tortillas in about 1/2" cooking oil over medium heat until they are just getting crisp, about 4 minutes.  I like mine at the "medium" stage where they are still tender in the center, but crispy all around the edges.

Put a paper towel or sturdy napkin on a plate.  Place one of the tortillas onto the towel.  Then, load it up as any burger -- meat patty, pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, etc.  Finish it off with the other tortilla.  Wrap it up around the bottom with the paper towel, and enjoy a burger!

Method 2:
Makes 1 serving

I don't prefer this method because it just seems like too much lettuce to me.  However, that being said, it is a very viable option.

Wash, dry then place 2 large lettuce leaves on a plate.  Load on the burger and toppings.  Wrap up the burger with the lettuce and enjoy.

Friday, September 09, 2011

Quick Sweet Fiber Treat

Quick Sweet Fiber Treat
Serves 1
This recipe is a snack to take care of a servious SWEET craving with out doing yourself harm and giving the body plenty of good, healthful Omega 3 fats that the Western diet is usually lacking, and fiber, too.  It is suitable for allergy diets and free of soy, wheat, gluten, dairy, eggs and sugar.

In a small bowl combine

2 tablespoons nuts (walnutspecans, pistachioscashews, etc.  I usually use walnuts)
1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
1 tablespoon roasted flax seed
1 to 2 tablespons minimally processed honey

Stir the ingredients together and eat with a spoon.  Enjoy!

Giblet gravy -- gluten free

Hey there!

It dawned on me that I hadn't ever given instructions for making gravy.  There are a couple of methods, like "country" gravy, or "brown" gravy, or using a roux, but this one uses broth, the drippings from a roasted turkey (the link goes to my recipe) and cornstarch.

Giblet gravy -- gluten free

After the turkey has gone into the oven, put the neck and giblets, (excluding the liver.  Fry that up and feed it to the dog!), into a fairly large pot, (3 to 8 quarts, depending on how much gravy is desired), filled with water.  Cover the pot and bring it to a boil.  Reduce the heat and keep it simmering on about low while the turkey is cooking.  It will reduce by about 1/2 during cooking.

About 1/2 hour before the turkey is done,  remove the neck and giblets from the broth.  Set them aside and allow them to cool.  Meanwhile, carefully drain off the juices from the cooking bird into a fat separating measuring cup or a bowl.  Add the juices, (with or without the fat, as desired), to the broth.  Cut the giblets up into 1/4" pieces and shred the meat from the neck.  Place the meat and giblets back into the broth.

In a 2 cup measuring cup or something about that size, add about 1/2 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/2 cup cool water.  (This is for at least 8 cups broth.)  Mix it thoroughly and drizzle it into the simmering broth.  If it isn't thick enough, add more cornstarch and water until it is thick enough.

Season the gravy to taste with

Sea salt
Adobo

Enjoy!

 

Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Casserole

Hi y'all!

I know it is early, but we were given a Turkey.  I fixed it yesterday with all the "trimmings," so now I have leftovers.  Even on gluten free and allergy restricted diets we wonder what to do with leftovers, don't we?  Well, this recipe is an easy casserole that uses leftover "Thanksgiving" fare.  it is suitable for allergy diets and free of soy, wheat, gluten, dairy, eggs and sugar.



Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Casserole
Serves 4

This one is easy, and I'm just going to give general approximations because one never knows how many leftovers one is going to have.  My premise is that there will be leftover mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, veggies of some sort and turkey.  My family doesn't care for cranberry sauce, so it isn't in here.  I've seen some renditions of this basic dish that put leftover cranberry sauce on the top.  If I were doing it, I would put it on the side, as a condiment.

First, grease a 9"x13"x2 in baking dish.  Put about

2/3 cup gravy

 into the dish and spread it evenly across the bottom.  Spread evenly over the gravy about

2 to 3 cups turkey, cut into bite sized pieces
2 to 4 cups veggies* (green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, etc.)

*The reason for the range is the size difference of the veggies.  Less for green beans and carrots, more for broccoli and cauliflower.  If there are no leftover veggies, a bag of frozen ones will do.

Put another layer of about

1 to 1 1/2 cups gravy (this link goes to my recipe for Gluten Free Giblet Gravy)

spreading it evenly over the turkey and veggies.  Continue to layer

2 to 3 cups stuffing (this link goes to my recipe for Cornbread Stuffing)
2 to 3 cups mashed potatoes

Sprinkle the top with

1/2 teaspoon parsley or basil

Bake the casserole for about 30-45 minutes at 350F.  Enjoy!


I just realized I've never given instructions on gravy making for gluten free diets.  I'll do that in another post and link it back here.

Thursday, September 08, 2011

Pumpkin Lentil Soup

Pumpkin Lentil Soup

I added turkey for more protein because it was my main dish. It can be omitted if the soup is desired as a side dish. It tastes a lot like potato soup -- bacon would be a great addition.  This is a gluten-free, egg-free, etc., recipe.

1 -16 ounce can pumpkin puree
1 cup red lentils (any will work, but cooking time will be longer)
1 medium onion, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon marjoram
3/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon seasoning salt
4 cups water

Optional ingredients:
1 cup chopped cooked turkey
3 strips bacon, cooked and chopped

Add the ingredients to a soup pot, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the lentils have become softened and are ready to eat, add the optional ingredients, if desired. Makes four servings.

Prune Ketchup

Prune Ketchup
Great for tomato (nightshade) allergies. My son thinks it tastes like Bar-B-Que sauce.

1 cup dried pitted prunes
1 cup water
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup minced onion
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cloves

Combine all of the ingredients in a small sauce pan and cook over medium heat until they are well thickened, about 20 minutes, stirring often. Store tightly covered in the refrigerator.

Applesauce Pancakes

Applesauce Pancakes
These are great because they don't have any wheat, milk or eggs. You can use whatever grains you to which you are not allergic. I expect you could use pureed banana, pear or pumpkin in place of the apple.

1 1/4 cups flour mix
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons applesauce
1 cup water

Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Add the applesauce and water and mix well. Allow to rest about 5 minutes before baking the pancakes on a large greased griddle. Serve hot. Makes about 12 - 4" pancakes.

Coconut Chocolate Pudding

Coconut Chocolate Pudding
This makes a yummy dessert that is wheat, gluten, dairy, egg, soy and sugar free.
Makes 8 servings


Melt
2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 "brick" (or round) coconut palm sugar (from the Asian Market -- about 1/2 cup sweetness equivalent)


Add
2 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
dash salt
6 packets Truvia sweetener


Stir in
1/2 of a 13.5 ounce can of coconut milk


In a cup, stir together
2 tablespoons tapioca flour in
4 tablespoons water


Add to the mixture in the pan.


Bring it all to a boil, then pour it into a small pan and chill it for at least 30 minutes.

Non-dairy, non-egg, no mayonnaise Ranch Salad Dressing

Non-dairy, non-egg, no mayonnaise Ranch Salad Dressing


1 cup goat's milk yogurt*
1/2 tablespoon parsley flakes
1/2 teaspoon dill
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
1 teaspoon chives
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon Truvia sweetener 
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice


Blend all ingredients in a blender container until the spices are uniformly pulverized.  Refrigerate.


Note:  I cooked 1 tablespoon tapioca flour in 2 tablespoons water until it was thickened and clear then added it to the yogurt mixture.  It thickened, then lost binding.  I'll try it again sometime, but it works ok without it.   I might try it with unfavored gelatin to make it like a dip?  Or I might strain the yogurt to make it more like sour cream before using it.  I wanted to get this posted in case anyone out there is like me and desperate for a Non-dairy, non-egg, no mayonnaise Ranch Salad Dressing!


*I made my own, but it can be purchased at health food stores.

Pumpkin Coconut Milk Pudding -- gluten, dairy and sugar free

Pumpkin Coconut Milk Pudding
Makes 8 servings.
This is rather like pumpkin pie filling without the fuss of having to make a pie. Completely wheat, dairy, egg, soy and sugar free!

Combine
1-14 ounce can pumpkin
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
~45 drops liquid stevia extract
1 packet unflavored Knox gelatin

Bring to a boil in a small saucepan
1 13.5 ounce can coconut milk
1 teaspoon vanilla

Add the boiling milk to the pumpkin mixture and stir well.  Pour it into a pie pan and chill it until it is set.

Spinach Balls -- gluten, soy, dairy free

Spinach Balls

These were inspired by an Indian cooking recipe site.  I saw a recipe photo that looked so good, I had to try to do something like it!  They are rather like spinach dumplings.  This makes about 2 dozen appetizers.

4 cups fresh spinach (or about 1 14 ounce can of spinach, drained)
1/2 pound fresh mushrooms
1/2 medium onion

Process the veggies in a food processor until they are uniform.  
Add and process till combined:
1/2 teaspoon garlic granules
2 teaspoons sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
Pinch chipotle pepper powder (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Add and process until smooth:
3/4 cup brown rice flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon water

Allow the batter to rest about 5 minutes.  Heat about 1" of oil in a pan until hot, then drop the balls by teaspoonfuls into the hot oil.  Cook them until they are browned.  Enjoy!

Gluten, Sugar, Egg, Dairy and Soy Free Lemon Squares

Lemon Squares
Makes 16.
Oh my!  These are good!  I didn't even feel like they were "special" at all.  They have no-eggs, no-dairy, no-soy, no-wheat and no-sugar -- Woo hoo!!  

Crust:
Combine
1/3 cup lard or coconut oil
6 packets Truvia
1/4 teaspoon salt
7/8 cup corn flour (or whatever flour you tolerate)
1/4 cup tapioca flour (or cornstarch)

Press the crust into an 8" square pan and bake it at 350F for about 15 minutes.

Filling:
Mix together
3/4 cup corn syrup (or other sticky liquid sweetener like agave or honey)
1/4 cup tapioca flour (or cornstarch)
1/4 teaspoon lemon peel
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons apple sauce
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Carefully pour the filling over the crust.  Bake about 20 minutes or until a knife inserted off center comes out clean.  Optional:  Sprinkle top with one packet of Truvia.

Wednesday, September 07, 2011

Sugar Free and Gluten Free Sour Cream Chocolate Cake

Yes, it is sugar free, wheat (gluten) free, soy free, egg free.  It is not dairy free because we recently added dairy back into our diet.  However, if it is necessary to be dairy free, just add a teaspoon of vinegar to 1/2 cup goat or rice milk and substitute that for the sour cream in the recipe*.

Gluten Free Sour Cream Chocolate Cake

Preheat oven to 350F.  Grease an 8"x12" cake pan and set it aside.

In a bowl combine, then set aside

1 3/4 cups flour mix
1 packet Knox gelatin
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Combine with an electric mixer in a large bowl until light

1/2 cup lard
1 3/4 cup dextrose or 1 1/2 cup Stevia in the Raw, measurable

Add, continuing to mix

1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons flax mixed with 1/3 cup warm water
3 squares (ounces) unsweetened chocolate, melted
1/2 cup sour cream*

Add the dry ingredients stirring by hand, then add

1 cup water

Bake approximately 25 minutes or until a knife inserted off center comes out clean.  The cake can be frosted or sprinkled with sweetener, as desired.  Makes about 16 servings.

Gluten Free Pumpkin or Apple Spice Donut Holes

Not only are these gluten free, but they are, also, dairy free, egg free, soy free...  but they are really yummy!  My non-"free" friends love them.

Gluten Free Pumpkin or Apple Spice Donut Holes

Combine the following ingredients in a large mixing bowl

3 1/2 cups flour mix
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1 cup Stevia in the Raw, measurable or 2/3 cup fructose

Work into the dry ingredients with a fork or pastry blender
3 tablespoons lard

Combine in a small bowl
3 tablespoons ground flax mixed with 6 tablespoons warm water
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/3 cup goat's milk (or rice milk) plus 1 teaspoon vinegar
1 cup pumpkin puree or applesauce

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir till just combined.  Allow the dough to rest at least 5 minutes, preferably allow it to rest 30 minutes refrigerated.

Heat the

Oil for frying

to 365F or drop a bit of corn tortilla into the oil.  If it doesn't respond by bubbling and sizzling, then the oil isn't ready yet.  When the oil is ready, drop the dough by 1/8 cup balls (2 tablespoons) into the batter.  They can be made smaller, but not any larger or the centers will not be cooked through.  Fry each batch until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes.  Check the centers with a poker to make sure the donuts are done.  Drain them on paper towels.

Roll the donut holes in

1 cup fructose (or dextrose)
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons nutmeg

If there is a helper available, it is really nice to have them dipping the donuts in the cinnamon/nutmeg/sweetener mixture after the donuts have rested a couple of minutes on the paper towels.  It makes the process much more streamlined.  (This is fun to do with older children!)

These are best served warm just after they've been "frosted!"  Makes about 36 donut holes.

Tuesday, September 06, 2011

Now, I'm Gluten Free, too!

Hi,

I had some testing done recently, and I showed an ear-marker for early Hashimoto's disease.  My doctor has taken me off gluten for at least six months, then we're going to re-evaluate.  I might be off gluten for the rest of my life, who knows?  I know I don't feel well when I do have it.  I accidentally ate some a couple of weeks ago, and ooooo!  I felt it.

So, from here on out, my recipes will be gluten-free.  Many already are or easily could be, so please check back often as I keep adding recipes.

Blessings,
Sharron Long

Heartland Gluten Free Spaghetti, 12-Ounce Bags (Pack of 5)