Been thinking of making delightful cream puffs for a few weeks already. Sometimes we need to have the right mood before we embark on a baking session. A friend ordered a chocolate cake with whipped cream topping, heavily sprinkled with pistachios. I had to buy a whole box of cream and there were times when I had to throw it all away because I did not have time to make anything with it.
Certain baking ingredients are very costly now. And cream cannot keep well so I decided to be a little hardworking. My friend Latifah simply loves cream puffs. Hope she liked the ones I made.
Choux Pastry for Cream Puffs
Bring to boil 150 ml water.
Add 2 oz butter
Once its melted, remove pan from heat and immediately
Add in 2.5 oz sifted plain flour
Stir very quickly with wooden spoon to combine mixture to a
smooth paste . Cool it slightly for around 2 minutes.
Place the dough into cake mixer and turn mixer on briefly to cool the dough.
Beat 2 eggs and gently pour in the egg mixture little by little, with the machine running at slow speed. Increase speed a little after each addition of eggs.
Do not use large eggs as mixture should not be too soft runny.
Do not overbeat if using machine. The paste should have a nice shine, not dull and dry.
Now place batter in a piping bag with a very large star nozzle so you can pipe out the pastry. To save time, you can make little mounds or short straight lines for eclairs.
Place puffs well apart on dampened baking sheets, lightly greased sheets or line with silicone sheets.
Bake at high temperature of around 200 deg C or 400 deg F for 45 to 50 mins. Do not underbake or pastry will deflate and be damp in the center. After its nicely light golden brown and firm, remove and split the puffs halfway horizontally with a sharp knife to release the steam.
Whip some fresh cream or make some delicious custard to fill the puffs.
Dip the tops in melted plain chocolate if desired.
Enjoy!
Yesterday I visited a friend and had a delicious meal there. She generously taught me how to make some Italian Potatoes. Maybe you can make them for your family - really quick, easy and delicious too! I made them this morning as I happened to have extra cream. Here it goes :
Italian Creme Potatoes
Peel and boil 3 large potatoes. Cut them in 2 if you are in a hurry.
Meanwhile slice a large onion, 3 pips garlic and fry in some olive oil.
Add a few pinches of sea salt and pepper to taste.
Now add the boiled and drained potatoes to the fried onions and garlic.
Mix it up gently with wooden spoon and add around half a cup of cream.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and mix lightly.
Bake in the oven to brown it if desired.
I did not do that as I was in a hurry to go out. It was nice and moist. Had it for brunch with onion and tomato salad, baked beans and fried nuggets with veggie filling on the side. That's my version of a quick brunch, though fried nuggets are not too healthy.
You can also add a little minced meat when you brown the onions.
For a change, sprinkle finely chopped parsley or scallions.
Serve with bread and salad for a quick meal.
Thank you Doctor C Noraini for sharing!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Remembering Ramadhan
Missing Ramadhan already! Came and went just like that...!!! Been a frantic month, trying to work, fulfil spiritual obligations, social obligations and fervently seeking Allah SWT's rewards, guidance and blessings!
Also a big change in our routine - sleeping hours sharply reduced and turned topsy turvy - all for a good cause. And the feeling of unity, compassion and heightened spirituality. How beautiful is Ramadhan!
Resolutions - not made to be broken
Promise of a Muslim to Oneself.
As usual made a little resolution to improve myself a little more this year. Actually we can make resolutions anytime of year but Ramadhan is like a major milestone. I will know how much I managed to achieved by checking myself. Where do I stand by next Ramadhan? If we treat our resolutions carelessly, it actually means we do not treat our own thoughts and intentions with respect and sincerity. It may be difficult to fulfil some resolutions but they must never be taken lightly. Or else why bother to try to be 'r e s o l u t e'?
Keep a Journal, Make a Plan
Try Mind Mapping
Write your own journal to chart your own course and check your progress. You can also do mind mapping - it will bring out the creativity in you!
Its more organised and keeps us on track. Actually we should best begin before Ramadhan, plan and try to fulfil some resolutions for Remadhan, follow up in Shawal and carry on until the next Ramadhan. May Allah SWT give us the opportunity to benefit from another Ramadhan, the most blessed month.
Also a big change in our routine - sleeping hours sharply reduced and turned topsy turvy - all for a good cause. And the feeling of unity, compassion and heightened spirituality. How beautiful is Ramadhan!
Resolutions - not made to be broken
Promise of a Muslim to Oneself.
As usual made a little resolution to improve myself a little more this year. Actually we can make resolutions anytime of year but Ramadhan is like a major milestone. I will know how much I managed to achieved by checking myself. Where do I stand by next Ramadhan? If we treat our resolutions carelessly, it actually means we do not treat our own thoughts and intentions with respect and sincerity. It may be difficult to fulfil some resolutions but they must never be taken lightly. Or else why bother to try to be 'r e s o l u t e'?
Keep a Journal, Make a Plan
Try Mind Mapping
Write your own journal to chart your own course and check your progress. You can also do mind mapping - it will bring out the creativity in you!
Its more organised and keeps us on track. Actually we should best begin before Ramadhan, plan and try to fulfil some resolutions for Remadhan, follow up in Shawal and carry on until the next Ramadhan. May Allah SWT give us the opportunity to benefit from another Ramadhan, the most blessed month.
Salams Friends - Good to back again!
Major Changes in My Life
Time just whizzed past at an astonishing speed! Between June and October I managed to sell my home, relocated myself to a more convenient place, bought myself a car, completed my book that took ages to write and unpacking almost done! Just too many books to sort out - so hard to throw them out! They are some of my best companions.
I love some of my old clothes too. I still wear my favorites though some are really rather old! Still look good and really comfortable. Go for quality. I trim my wardrobe often as space is limited.
Sharing Preloved Clothes and Possessions
I like to share my clothes. People share their clothes with me too. Why hang on to clothes which we seldom use? We may still love them and treasure some extra sentimental pieces but what good will that do? It only takes up precious space and deprive others of enjoying them. I do keep some special pieces but if we enjoy buying new clothes all year round, its time for them to find a new home.
Preloved clothes are as good as any new ones. After a few washes, new ones too will be considered preloved. So share them with your friends and they in turn can share them with others.
There is no shame or embarassment in accepting preloved clothes. Feel complimented that your friend has chosen you to share her clothes. I tell them to pass them on if the clothes are not their size or taste. Do not be sensitive if they do not wear them. Do you like to be pressured to wear clothes that you feel do not suit you? The only problem is some friends greedily accept your clothes, never wear them and never gave them to others. They hoard their clothes and continue to hoard yours too! Solution - never share anything else with them anymore until they learn how to share!
Be Gracious and Humble
For the recepient, be polite and accept the clothes graciously. Do not feel offended or too proud to accept a kind offer. I like it when people give me their nice clothes. I love them for it. And its also an opportunity to be humble.
Some people feel they are too good to wear preloved clothes. You won't be offered any if the owner does not like you. I for one would not want someone I dislike to wear my clothes. I'd rather send them to a charity box by the roadside.
Give Only the Good Stuff
Remember, do not give away clothes that need mending; fix the buttons, wash, press and pack them neatly if you have the time. Do not give your friends or even strangers worn out, ugly and outdated clothes. Only the good stuff.
Respect Others
Do not think its alright to treat your dear friend with disrespect and expect her to be happy to accept our 'awful discards'. She may well decide to discard you in return for your unkind and insulting treatment.
Time just whizzed past at an astonishing speed! Between June and October I managed to sell my home, relocated myself to a more convenient place, bought myself a car, completed my book that took ages to write and unpacking almost done! Just too many books to sort out - so hard to throw them out! They are some of my best companions.
I love some of my old clothes too. I still wear my favorites though some are really rather old! Still look good and really comfortable. Go for quality. I trim my wardrobe often as space is limited.
Sharing Preloved Clothes and Possessions
I like to share my clothes. People share their clothes with me too. Why hang on to clothes which we seldom use? We may still love them and treasure some extra sentimental pieces but what good will that do? It only takes up precious space and deprive others of enjoying them. I do keep some special pieces but if we enjoy buying new clothes all year round, its time for them to find a new home.
Preloved clothes are as good as any new ones. After a few washes, new ones too will be considered preloved. So share them with your friends and they in turn can share them with others.
There is no shame or embarassment in accepting preloved clothes. Feel complimented that your friend has chosen you to share her clothes. I tell them to pass them on if the clothes are not their size or taste. Do not be sensitive if they do not wear them. Do you like to be pressured to wear clothes that you feel do not suit you? The only problem is some friends greedily accept your clothes, never wear them and never gave them to others. They hoard their clothes and continue to hoard yours too! Solution - never share anything else with them anymore until they learn how to share!
Be Gracious and Humble
For the recepient, be polite and accept the clothes graciously. Do not feel offended or too proud to accept a kind offer. I like it when people give me their nice clothes. I love them for it. And its also an opportunity to be humble.
Some people feel they are too good to wear preloved clothes. You won't be offered any if the owner does not like you. I for one would not want someone I dislike to wear my clothes. I'd rather send them to a charity box by the roadside.
Give Only the Good Stuff
Remember, do not give away clothes that need mending; fix the buttons, wash, press and pack them neatly if you have the time. Do not give your friends or even strangers worn out, ugly and outdated clothes. Only the good stuff.
Respect Others
Do not think its alright to treat your dear friend with disrespect and expect her to be happy to accept our 'awful discards'. She may well decide to discard you in return for your unkind and insulting treatment.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Loving Each Other for the sake of Allah
Muslims are supposed to maintain cordial relations with people around us. Friends, colleagues, neighbors, relatives and also to extend cordial relations with the community and last but not least, to keep good relations with the world at large.
We are reminded to patient and fight only in self defense. Muslims are not aggressive in their manner but are reminded prepared to strive for justice and honour when necessary.
Do we have to care for one another?
How do we manage these affairs on a more personal level? We are told to care for each other in good times as well as in bad times. Every Muslim is part of the ummah - locally and universally.
Even Friends can Differ
Sometimes even friends cannot see eye to eye. Ideas and perceptions differ and priorities may vary extremely. When one is caught in the middle of a sticky situation, how do we extricate ourselves from the mess? Do we run away and leave them to slug it out? Not everyone handle differences civilly or with respect and restrain.
Mistakes are Learning Experiences
When upset many people say and do foolish things. No necessity to look too far - we only need to look at ourselves. We had been there, done that.... Yes, many of us did some real dumb things before. We take that as a learning experience to improve ourselves.
We are not always better than others but we can always strive to become better. People fight over all sorts of reasons. Some are trivial enough while others may have good and valid reason to become upset.
How do we help people who are still smarting from some sharp words or indulging in some destructive and useless self pity? And what about people who uttered some hurting remarks and do not seem to feel even a little ashamed of it? Sometimes we may think we are better than others. May Allah forgive us!
We are reminded to patient and fight only in self defense. Muslims are not aggressive in their manner but are reminded prepared to strive for justice and honour when necessary.
Do we have to care for one another?
How do we manage these affairs on a more personal level? We are told to care for each other in good times as well as in bad times. Every Muslim is part of the ummah - locally and universally.
Even Friends can Differ
Sometimes even friends cannot see eye to eye. Ideas and perceptions differ and priorities may vary extremely. When one is caught in the middle of a sticky situation, how do we extricate ourselves from the mess? Do we run away and leave them to slug it out? Not everyone handle differences civilly or with respect and restrain.
Mistakes are Learning Experiences
When upset many people say and do foolish things. No necessity to look too far - we only need to look at ourselves. We had been there, done that.... Yes, many of us did some real dumb things before. We take that as a learning experience to improve ourselves.
We are not always better than others but we can always strive to become better. People fight over all sorts of reasons. Some are trivial enough while others may have good and valid reason to become upset.
How do we help people who are still smarting from some sharp words or indulging in some destructive and useless self pity? And what about people who uttered some hurting remarks and do not seem to feel even a little ashamed of it? Sometimes we may think we are better than others. May Allah forgive us!
Healthy Diet - fresh food vs processed nutrition blends
Healthy Diet - do we try to count the calories or concentrate on nutritious food?
Some people claim we have to reduce our eating and should take some healthy meal substitutes that provide the necessary nutrition.
Processed vs Natural Real Foods
Others say we should not depend on processed 'nutrition' but go for quality fresh foods. The only kind of supplement we should use are natural ones - like virgin coconut oil, flax seed, magnesium oil, apple cider vinegar, yoghurt, olive oil and so on...
Quality Food Supplements may be Costly
Being so very busy rushing around daily, many people resort to the easy way out - very expensive quality food supplements and food replacement plans. The sales personnel will try their best to convince you that's the best way to keep fit and healthy.
While this may be helpful for some people, are they not missing on enjoying some real food that's provided for us by our Creator..
Simple and Quick Cooking Methods can Save the Day
If we choose quality fresh food and prepare them in a simple way it is not only superior to processed supplements but its definitely more tasty and satisfying.
Ever Heard of Steaming and Stir Fry?
We can control the calories by avoiding too much fried foods, high sugar foods and using good oils that are healthy for us. Olive oil is high recommended especially for salads and light cooking. Virgin coconut oil is rich in enzymes and will not make us put on weight. Palm Oil has no cholesterol and good for frying as it is relatively stable and neutral in taste.
Steaming food such as seafood, vegetables and even chicken is quick and simple, easy to clean up and easy to digest.
It may be convenient to drink a large glass of blended processed nutrients but wouldn't a glass of fresh juice or smoothie be more of a treat? Who would like to have a tropical fruit smoothie instead of a reconstituted flavoured shake that comes out of a cardboard cylinder?
Some people claim we have to reduce our eating and should take some healthy meal substitutes that provide the necessary nutrition.
Processed vs Natural Real Foods
Others say we should not depend on processed 'nutrition' but go for quality fresh foods. The only kind of supplement we should use are natural ones - like virgin coconut oil, flax seed, magnesium oil, apple cider vinegar, yoghurt, olive oil and so on...
Quality Food Supplements may be Costly
Being so very busy rushing around daily, many people resort to the easy way out - very expensive quality food supplements and food replacement plans. The sales personnel will try their best to convince you that's the best way to keep fit and healthy.
While this may be helpful for some people, are they not missing on enjoying some real food that's provided for us by our Creator..
Simple and Quick Cooking Methods can Save the Day
If we choose quality fresh food and prepare them in a simple way it is not only superior to processed supplements but its definitely more tasty and satisfying.
Ever Heard of Steaming and Stir Fry?
We can control the calories by avoiding too much fried foods, high sugar foods and using good oils that are healthy for us. Olive oil is high recommended especially for salads and light cooking. Virgin coconut oil is rich in enzymes and will not make us put on weight. Palm Oil has no cholesterol and good for frying as it is relatively stable and neutral in taste.
Steaming food such as seafood, vegetables and even chicken is quick and simple, easy to clean up and easy to digest.
It may be convenient to drink a large glass of blended processed nutrients but wouldn't a glass of fresh juice or smoothie be more of a treat? Who would like to have a tropical fruit smoothie instead of a reconstituted flavoured shake that comes out of a cardboard cylinder?
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Dogs and Cats
Dogs and Cats! You either love them or hate them! Better to love than hate.
Muslims do not have to dislike dogs just because we are not allowed to keep them as pets. They make good guard dogs - ever tried using a cat or parakeet to guard your farm? All animals are Allah's creations.We are carers of the environment as Khalifah of Allah. (Vicegerent on Earth).
Even if You do not Love Them, do not Harm Them
Some people get so paranoid that the fear sometimes turn to hate. They pass this fear to their children by their speech and actions.
How to 'Purify' a Utensil licked by a Dog
Should a dog lick a plate or utensil meant for food, the plate has to be 'purified' or 'samak' by washing it with clay and rinsed a total of 7 times with clean water. In fact this purification applies only to dogs and not even pigs.
Many Animals are Victims of Society
Not all dogs are bad - some strays attack people maybe because people attack them all the time. Sometimes owners abandon them when they move out. Many strays are ill, hungry and unloved, taunted and hated. Do you expect them to love you in return?
Bad Cat! So Greedy!
A friend mentioned that she beat the house cat when it stole the fish meant for dinner. Bad cat! So greedy! I gently reminded her - a cat is an animal.
It cannot go to work or go into a shop to buy his own fish. It depends solely on the kindness of human beings who share the same planet with them. When a cat is hungry, it looks for food.
It didn't deserve to be punished! Humans sometimes expect animals to think and behave like them. Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) she understood and became very kind, patient and generous to her furry friends.
Easy to Do Charity Daily
Why not feed the hungry and starving animals? Its charity every day. Does it feel good to enjoy all your meals knowing the strays are wondering when their next meal may come?
Every deed, big or small will be recorded by the malaikah (angels) as good deeds.
Muslims do not have to dislike dogs just because we are not allowed to keep them as pets. They make good guard dogs - ever tried using a cat or parakeet to guard your farm? All animals are Allah's creations.We are carers of the environment as Khalifah of Allah. (Vicegerent on Earth).
Even if You do not Love Them, do not Harm Them
Some people get so paranoid that the fear sometimes turn to hate. They pass this fear to their children by their speech and actions.
How to 'Purify' a Utensil licked by a Dog
Should a dog lick a plate or utensil meant for food, the plate has to be 'purified' or 'samak' by washing it with clay and rinsed a total of 7 times with clean water. In fact this purification applies only to dogs and not even pigs.
Many Animals are Victims of Society
Not all dogs are bad - some strays attack people maybe because people attack them all the time. Sometimes owners abandon them when they move out. Many strays are ill, hungry and unloved, taunted and hated. Do you expect them to love you in return?
Bad Cat! So Greedy!
A friend mentioned that she beat the house cat when it stole the fish meant for dinner. Bad cat! So greedy! I gently reminded her - a cat is an animal.
It cannot go to work or go into a shop to buy his own fish. It depends solely on the kindness of human beings who share the same planet with them. When a cat is hungry, it looks for food.
It didn't deserve to be punished! Humans sometimes expect animals to think and behave like them. Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) she understood and became very kind, patient and generous to her furry friends.
Easy to Do Charity Daily
Why not feed the hungry and starving animals? Its charity every day. Does it feel good to enjoy all your meals knowing the strays are wondering when their next meal may come?
Every deed, big or small will be recorded by the malaikah (angels) as good deeds.
Time Does Really Fly!!!
Time Does Really Fly!!!
Time is simply fleeting... very quickly. If we do not make use of our time carefully, its gone - just like that! I used to grow up hearing adults talking about being bored, having nothing to do, playing cards or some useless games just to 'pass time".
Kill Time?
These days my reaction would be "WHAT?" Kill Time? Do you know you are actually wasting your life away on some useless and unsatisfying activity, all in the name of passing time?
Angel of Death waits for no one
Time is one of the most precious commodites that we may take for granted. We need to value it and use it very carefully. When the Angel of Death comes to take our souls, he will not delay even one minute and not even one second! We can never get even half a day to return to our worldly life to make good our promises to our Creator, to others and to ourselves.
Feeling Lazy?
Of course there are moments where we feel lazy or under the weather. Use these moments to relax and revitalise ourselves. Read a good book, write some letters or catch up on your hobby. Even a mid morning nap after a busy morning is fine as it gives us extra energy to get more out of our day.
Be Moderate in all things
Valuing time does not mean not taking a break or pushing ourselves till we drop. We need to be moderate - take care of our interests, our work, our responsibilities and our spiritual commitments. And make time for rest, recreation and regular exercise to maintain good health. Make time to take care of our body and soul.
Having said all that, I too must re prioritize my activities as we do sometimes get caught up in some unexpected events and have to refocus ourselves to make best use of our life and our time.
Time is simply fleeting... very quickly. If we do not make use of our time carefully, its gone - just like that! I used to grow up hearing adults talking about being bored, having nothing to do, playing cards or some useless games just to 'pass time".
Kill Time?
These days my reaction would be "WHAT?" Kill Time? Do you know you are actually wasting your life away on some useless and unsatisfying activity, all in the name of passing time?
Angel of Death waits for no one
Time is one of the most precious commodites that we may take for granted. We need to value it and use it very carefully. When the Angel of Death comes to take our souls, he will not delay even one minute and not even one second! We can never get even half a day to return to our worldly life to make good our promises to our Creator, to others and to ourselves.
Feeling Lazy?
Of course there are moments where we feel lazy or under the weather. Use these moments to relax and revitalise ourselves. Read a good book, write some letters or catch up on your hobby. Even a mid morning nap after a busy morning is fine as it gives us extra energy to get more out of our day.
Be Moderate in all things
Valuing time does not mean not taking a break or pushing ourselves till we drop. We need to be moderate - take care of our interests, our work, our responsibilities and our spiritual commitments. And make time for rest, recreation and regular exercise to maintain good health. Make time to take care of our body and soul.
Having said all that, I too must re prioritize my activities as we do sometimes get caught up in some unexpected events and have to refocus ourselves to make best use of our life and our time.
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