Jamaican Hard Dough Bread & Gratitude

Sep 5, 2013 by

It has been a few weeks since I’ve been in this space. It took a few inquiries to realize how long it has really been since my last post. Funny how time flies when you’re having fun! I’m truly happy to get back to some sort of “normal” as my life is falling into a new routine. In life’s many twists and turns, there is never a dull moment. Through it all, one thing for sure that I have learned is to always live in gratitude. I’m grateful to be able to share a post with you today.

Upon realization that I would have to spend my summer in Canada, I decided that this summer had to be special. A summer filled with firsts – my favourite kind of experience. There’s no use dwelling on how things used to be. Things are changing, so its time to embrace what is coming and smile while you’re at it. Earlier this year, I was suffering with a bout of chronic pain and I vowed to feel better before my birthday. I spent weeks in physiotherapy and made some major changes to my diet. No joke – I even gave up baking for a few months. I also limited my consumption of grains/legumes and reduced my wheat intake drastically. I started to feel different and also look different. Which was perfect considering one of my favourite experiences this summer was participating in Toronto’s annual Caribbean Carnival – Caribana. Yes, I did it. I put on a costume and walked (and sometimes danced) for hours, all the while praying that I would not suffer too much when it was all over. I’m grateful that I had an awesome, pain-free experience.

I have more things to be grateful for. I have a houseful of students! My husband has been on a course for quite some time now. My son just started First Grade and my daughter is officially in Kindergarten. Oh, and there’s more. I also returned to school. Can you believe it? I’m officially a University student! So many changes are happening all in one go. If I thought I was busy before, well I guess life just got busier. We all have to run with it and try not to get overwhelmed. We are doing exactly what needs to be done. This is indeed a September like no other!

Now that the summer is over, I can reminisce on food from home and maybe even steal some time to whip up a few things. I could not wait to try this Jamaican Hard Dough Bread recipe by Enid Donaldson. There is no bread that compares with authentic Jamaican Hard Dough Bread. I am fully aware that I’m biased, but I need you to understand. Jamaican Hard Dough Bread is the TRUTH! You just can’t go wrong! Although I don’t eat as much bread as I used to, I will still bake from time to time and share my experience. The occasional slice will be just enough for me.

 

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread_0

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread – The Lovely Pantry

 

For those who are not familiar with Hard Dough (or “Hardo Bread” as we call it) please allow me to provide a sort description. Hard Dough bread may be considered a true staple in Jamaican fare. It is a basic white bread. There are whole wheat versions available too as a healthier alternative. Hard Dough Bread is a rich, dense, chewy textured bread that can be eaten at any time of the day. It can be enjoyed with the following meals: Ackee & Saltfish, Steamed Callalloo (similar to spinach), Corned Beef (in a sandwich, if you like), Cheese, Jerked Chicken, Jerked Pork, Fried Fish, Avocado, Fried Eggs, your favourite porridge, Jamaican Hot Chocolate, your favourite fruit preserve (I LOVED Guava Jelly on my Hardo Bread), French Toast, or even just a slice with butter – you name it, it works well. Just trust me on this one. You can’t go wrong.

 

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread

Prep Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Yield: 2 Loaves

Ingredients

  • 2lbs All Purpose Flour, Unbleached
  • 2 Tsp Instant Dry Yeast
  • 4 Tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 2 Tsp Salt
  • 6 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 2 Cups Water

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar and salt
  2. Using a pastry cutter (or your fingers) incorporate the butter into the flour mixture
  3. Gradually add water and knead for about 15 minutes using the kneading attachment of your mixer
  4. Remove from the mixing bowl and form into a boule
  5. Place dough into a well greased bowl and cover with a towel for at least 40 minutes
  6. Preheat oven to 375F
  7. Remove the risen dough to a floured surface. Divide into two equal parts then shape dough to fit into 2 well greased loaf pans
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes
  9. Remove from oven and allow to stand for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely

Notes

Adapted from The Real Taste Of Jamaica by Enid Donaldson

https://lovelypantry.com/2013/09/jamaican-hard-dough-bread-gratitude/

 

I saw the ingredients and loved how easy it was to prepare. However, I thought the suggested quantity of butter was not enough for 2 loaves, in my opinion. Being the rebel that I am, I added more butter. Yes. Yes I did.

 

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread_2

Ingredients for Jamaican Hard Dough Bread (water not shown)

 

I loved that I didn’t have to get too physical with this dough. Cutting in the butter was the step that used the most energy.

 Jamaican Hard Dough Bread_3

 

My handy-dandy dough kneading attachment did the hard work for me.

 

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread_4

 

The dough did not rise too much, but you could definitely see a change in volume.

 

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread_5a

The dough is placed in a bowl, generously greased with butter

 

 

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread_6

The dough is divided evenly and placed in 2 loaf pans

 

Both loaves turned out perfectly. I have no complaints whatsoever. We all enjoyed this bread very much. The next time I make it, I will have to give a loaf away. It’s too good not to share!

 

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread_8

Jamaican Hard Dough Bread – The Lovely Pantry

 

As much as I love Hard Dough Bread, I haven’t found any in local stores that taste great to me. Usually the bread is just too hard or has a weird texture. Although this bread isn’t as dense as the “Hardo Bread” I know and love, it is a great alternative. I will wait until I am in Jamaica to fully enjoy my Hard Dough Bread. But until my next visit, I will gladly use this recipe and have freshly baked Hard Dough Bread whenever I’m in the mood.

 

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#GlutenFree Chickpea Fritters for #SundaySupper

Jun 9, 2013 by

I’ve had to look into so many things with regards to how we eat our food today. With all the various food sensitivities out there, it is so important to pay attention to foods that can cause illness to you or your loved ones. I have had to learn about  Gluten from a friend of mine who is sensitive to wheat products. I was not aware of Celiac Disease/Gluten Sensitivity before my friend shared her situation with me. I was more familiar with common food allergies/sensitivities like dairy, nuts and shellfish. Today’s #SundaySupper theme is all about meals prepared for either health or dietary restrictions. So whether it be Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar Free, Nut Free – we will have something to share with you today.

Our host this week is Bea from Not So Cheesy Kitchen. Bea’s blog is dedicated to sharing meals and information about a rare metabolic disorder called Classic Galactosemia. This particular disorder prevents the body from processing sugar galactose properly. Bea has been able to allow her family to thrive by preparing special meals that are free from galactose, with guidance from her metabolic clinic. Bea is a true champion! Having a restricted diet has its many challenges, but Bea manages it well and shares her recipes and experiences with us on her blog. Thank you , Bea! And Thank you for hosting this theme that is so close to your heart.

Today I am sharing with you a Gluten Free Fritter using Chickpeas, Scallions, and tomatoes. I really like fritters. There is something about them that I find so comforting. Perhaps it’s because my grandma used to make saltfish fritters for me, I’m not sure. They are so easy to make and such a practical snack. Everyone should be able to enjoy fritters of some kind. They can be served as a side dish or as a snack.

 

Chickpea Fritters #GlutenFree


#GlutenFree Chickpea Fritters for #SundaySupper

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4

Ingredients

  • 1/2 Cup Gluten Free All Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 Cup Quinoa Flour
  • 1 1/2 Tsp Gluten Free Baking Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp Salt
  • 1 Egg, lightly beaten
  • 3/4 Cup Unsweetened Almond Milk
  • 3 Large Scallions
  • 4 Campari Tomatoes
  • 1 2/3 Cups Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans), rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 Cups Chopped Spinach
  • Sunflower Oil or Olive Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, sift flours, baking powder and salt. Add milk and eggs, whisk to make a smooth batter.
  2. Fold in the scallions, chickpeas, tomatoes and spinach. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  3. In a large skillet, bring oil to medium high heat. Using a ladle, add about 3 tablespoons of the batter and cook in batches for about 3-5 minutes, then flipping until browned on the other side.
  4. Serve warmed on a bed of spinach (optional) with any creamy Gluten Free dip of choice.
https://lovelypantry.com/2013/06/glutenfree-chickpea-fritters-for-sundaysupper/

 

I really enjoyed these chickpea fritters. It’s always great to know you can create more than just hummus with a can of chickpeas. Scallions bring a lovely flavour to the fritters and pair nicely with the Tomatoes. Any tomato will do, as long as you remove the seeds first. You only need about a cup of diced tomatoes.

 

Scallions, Tomatoes, Chickpeas

 

Chickpea Fritter Batter

#GlutenFree Chickpea Fritter Batter

 

 

I used this opportunity to use the Gluten-Free Flour that I had in my pantry. Instead of using a full cup the GF flour for this recipe, I went half and half with Quinoa Flour – another Gluten Free flour.

 

Chickpea Fritters #GlutenFree-9

Chickpea Fritters #GlutenFree

I also shredded a handful of spinach to give the fritters some added nutrition as well as a beautiful hint of green!

Chickpea Fritters #GlutenFree-10

#Gluten-Free Chickpea Fritters

 

Chickpea Fritters #GlutenFree-13

#Gluten-Free Chickpea Fritters

 

I’m very happy to have made a #GlutenFree dish for today’s #SundaySupper. Although I do not have a Gluten sensitivity, I will always try to make a variety of recipes that can assist other readers with special diets. Hope you enjoyed my recipe today. As always, check out the list of Recipes from the #SundaySupper group. Feel free to PIN and share your favourites on Facebook or Twitter!

 

Breakfast

  • Dairy, Egg, Gluten, Nut & Soy Free Brown Rice Breakfast Pudding bygirlichef
  • Dairy & Nut and Sugar Free Blueberry Tangerine Muffins by Vintage Kitchen
  • Dairy, Egg, Gluten, Nut, and Soy Free Homemade Mango Jam Recipe byMasala Herb

Main Courses

Sides
Breads

Treats

Drinks

 

 

***

sunday supper Sneak Peek: 45+ Fabulous Summer Berry Recipes for #SundaySupper

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday, April 14th to talk all about movies that have inspired us to head into the kitchen – and the food that comes from that inspiration (7pm EST)!

We’ll tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world.   Follow the#SundaySupper hashtag, and include it in your tweets to join in the chat.

Check out our #SundaySupper Pinterest board for more delicious recipes and food photos.

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Irish Soda Bread Rounds

Mar 13, 2013 by

After a week of sniffles and being under the weather, I am so glad that it is almost over and I can finally breathe again. I think I really needed some rest and being sick helped me to achieve that a little. It was great to get back into the kitchen and catch up on my cooking and baking. I’m looking forward to a relaxing March break with my family and an awesome Spring! This recipe is a great way to start the season and is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day.

The recipe I’m sharing with you today has got to be one of the best breads I’ve had in a long time. I have baked Irish Soda Bread before, but these little darlings are way better. I couldn’t believe how good they were! I almost kicked myself that I reduced the recipe by half. But then again, I would have had more than I should have. So I suppose it was a good thing. We all enjoyed it very much and both my children raved about how good they were.

 

Irish Soda Bread Rounds

 

Irish Soda Bread Rounds

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Yield: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 Cups All Purpose Flour, Unbleached
  • 2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 1 1/2 Tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp Baking Soda
  • 1/2 Tsp Salt
  • 6 Tbsp Unsalted Butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/2 Cup Currants
  • 3/4 Cup Plain Organic Yogurt (or buttermilk)
  • 1 Tbsp 2% Milk
  • 1 Egg
  • Optional Glaze: 1 Tsp Sugar dissolved in 1 Tsp hot water.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350F
  2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Grease with no-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, sift in flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
  4. Using a pastry cutter, cut in butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
  5. Stir in currants
  6. In a medium bowl, whisk egg until frothy
  7. Add yogurt and milk. Whisk to combine
  8. Using a kneading attachment for your mixer, add the yogurt mixture to the flour mixture.
  9. Knead for about 5 minutes until fully combined and forms a dough that forms a ball
  10. Remove dough from bowl and add to a well floured surface
  11. Roll into a ball and cut into 4 even quarters
  12. Roll each quarter into a ball and gently press down the centre
  13. Score each ball with an X at the top
  14. Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean
  15. Remove from baking sheet and transfer to a wire rack. Cool for about 15 minutes.
  16. Brush each round with glaze for a sweet crust

Notes

Adapted from Irish Favourites

https://lovelypantry.com/2013/03/irish-soda-bread-rounds/

 

Irish Soda Bread Rounds-1

Irish Soda Bread Rounds – Ingredients

 

I made some changes out of necessity. The original recipe called for buttermilk which I did not have. So I substituted with some plain organic yogurt that I had and added a tablespoon of milk to thin it out just a little. Thank goodness I had it ~ I don’t care for plain yogurt very much so this recipe was right on time to use it up. I also used butter  instead of shortening. The dough came together quite well and it was easy to divide it into 4 portions using a sharp knife. I was sure to score the top of each round prior to baking.

 

Irish Soda Bread Rounds-2

Irish Soda Bread Rounds – Dough, ready for baking

 

I loved that this was a yeast-free bread. The kneading that was required was done by my mixer which truly earns its keep. This was very easy to make and was ready in under an hour.

 

Irish Soda Bread Rounds_2

Irish Soda Bread Rounds

 

These Irish Soda Bread Rounds are a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. We had ours while it was still warm – it was absolutely delightful with butter. I know my parents would love this. It reminds me a lot of a raisin bread. I chose to brush it with a light sugar/water glaze for a little added sweetness.

 

Irish Soda Bread Rounds_3

Irish Soda Bread Rounds – with glaze

 

Irish Soda Bread Rounds_4

Irish Soda Bread Rounds

 

I hope you get to try this recipe. I was so happy with the results. My family enjoyed it and I’d bet yours would too.

~Lyn

 

 

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Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins #MuffinMonday

Mar 4, 2013 by

Well, its been a while since I’ve made muffins for #MuffinMonday! I was so happy that I actually had something ready to share with you all today. I have been trying to add coconut to many things that I bake, when I can. These muffins gave me the perfect opportunity to experiment a little and also  to make something that my little ones will enjoy.

I really like baking with spelt flour and decided to incorporate it in this muffin recipe. I found this recipe on Canadian Living‘s website. The key ingredient for this weeks #MuffinMonday is Coconut. I used only Coconut Sugar as the sweetener, and used Coconut Oil instead of vegetable oil. Coconut Sugar and Banana were the only ingredients needed to sweeten these little muffins.

 Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins_1

 

 

Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins #MuffinMonday

Ingredients

  • 3/4 Cups All Purpose Flour, Unbleached
  • 1/2 Cup Spelt Flour
  • 1/2 Cup Coconut Sugar
  • 3/4 Tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp Baking Soda
  • 1/4 Tsp Salt
  • 1 Egg
  • 1/2 Cup Buttermilk
  • 1/2 Cup Mashed Banana (1 med banana)
  • 2 Tbsp + 2 Tsp Coconut Oil
  • 1 Tsp Vanilla
  • 1/2 Cup Dark Chocolate Chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375F
  2. In a medium bowl, add flours, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk to combine.
  3. In a medium bowl, beat eggs, add buttermilk, bananas, oil and vanilla.
  4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until combined.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips
  6. Spoon batter evenly into greased muffin liners
  7. Bake for 25 minutes and allow to cool for about 10 minutes.
https://lovelypantry.com/2013/03/coconut-banana-chocolate-chip-muffins-muffinmonday/

 

I opted to leave out shredded coconut because I know my kids are picky about “bits” in their muffins. But I’m sure it would have worked well with this recipe. A quarter cup of shredded coconut would have been a nice portion for this recipe.

 

Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins-1-2

Ingredients for Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

 

I reduced the recipe by half and used these cute colourful silicone mini-muffin cups. I find that the muffins come out so much better when I use them as opposed to paper liners. I avoid using the muffin tin directly whenever possible. I also mixed the entire recipe by hand. The batter was so light and easy to manipulate.

 

Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins Prep

 

Yet another delightful aroma coming from my kitchen! The kids really got excited and kept asking if the muffins were ready.

 

Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins_4

Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

 

I baked these little muffins for my children and they loved it. They were just the right size and were much better for them in my opinion, since I added spelt flour and used coconut sugar.

 

Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins_2

Coconut Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

 

Enjoy the first week in March!!!

~Lyn

***

Muffin Monday is an initiative by Baker Street ~ A culinary journey of sharing a wickedly delicious muffin recipe every week. Drop in a quick line to join her on her journey to make the world smile and beat glum Monday mornings week after week.

Muffin Monday

Muffin 101

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Chocolate Chip Banana Cake with Banana Cream for #SundaySupper

Feb 10, 2013 by

Welcome to the Valentine’s edition of #SundaySupper. Today we are sharing things we prepare for our loved ones. Our fabulous host is none other than Jen from Juanita’s Cocina! I’m looking forward to seeing all the wonderful main dishes, desserts and drinks being shared today!

My family loves sweet treats. Because of this, I try to substitute and lighten things up a bit or just keep it really simple. I love cooking and baking for them. Its one sure way that I can express my love for them. I knew exactly what I was going to make for today’s #SundaySupper. My kids ask for this cake often enough ever since I made it for the first time a few weeks ago. My baby girl can probably list the ingredients because she has been right there beside me each time I have made it. I’ve even offered it as a gift to a gathering that we went to recently. Total win. Simplicity at its very best.

Originally I was planning to post Bailey’s Banana Cream but it didn’t taste the same as how I did it the first time. So since I clearly haven’t perfected it, I will stick with the Banana Cream. It is the perfect complement to the Banana Cake. This recipe is from my very special book, A Real Taste of Jamaica by Enid Donaldson. There is absolutely no way that bananas should ever go to waste. Not with recipes like this one.

 

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake With Banana Cream

 

 

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake with Banana Cream for #SundaySupper

Ingredients

  • 1 Cups All Purpose Flour, Unbleached
  • 1 Tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/4 Tsp Baking Soda
  • 1 Eggs
  • 1 1/4 Very ripe Bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 Stick of Unsalted Butter
  • 2/3 Sugar
  • 1 Tsp Vanilla
  • A pinch of Cardamom
  • 1/4 Cup Mini Chocolate Chips
  • **Banana Cream**
  • 1 Very Ripe Banana
  • 2 Tbsp Sugar
  • 1/4 Tsp Allspice
  • 3/4 Cup Whipping Cream

Instructions

  1. **Banana Cream**
  2. Do this before you make the cake so that it can be refrigerated for a while.
  3. Whip cream either using a whisk, mini blender or regular blender. I used my Magic Bullet.
  4. Mix in the banana, sugar and allspice.
  5. Store in a small container in the fridge until the cake is ready to be served
  6. ***
  7. Preheat Oven to 375F
  8. Grease an 8-inch pan and line the base with parchment paper.
  9. In a medium bowl, sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom and salt
  10. In a large mixing bowl, cream sugar and butter.
  11. Add egg and mix to combine
  12. Add mashed banana and vanilla, then mix to combine
  13. Add the flour mixture into the banana mixture and mix just until combined. Finish combining by hand with a spoon if needed.
  14. Fold in the chocolate chips
  15. Bake for 25 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean
  16. Remove from oven and transfer to a cooling rack.
  17. Allow to cool for about 30 minutes before slicing.
  18. Serve topped with Banana Cream
https://lovelypantry.com/2013/02/chocolate-chip-banana-cake-with-banana-cream-for-sundaysupper/

 

I didn’t change much when it came to the ingredients. I added a pinch of cardamom – just because. For the Banana Cream I replaced nutmeg with allspice. Nutmeg isn’t my favourite. I’ll use it when I have to but for this recipe, the allspice was a lovely addition.

 

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake Collage

 

The chocolate chips are an additional treat for this recipe. By itself, it is simply wonderful. The aroma while it is baking is heavenly. Once baked, you’ll find yourself wanting more and more. I speak from personal experience. The banana adds such rich moisture to this cake.

 

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake With Banana Cream

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake

 

I was bringing desert over to a friend’s house recently. I wanted to dress up this sweet wonderful cake. I doubled the recipe and split the batter. Added chocolate chips to one half and left the other one plain. I decorated the plain cake with slices of banana. Oh, how I love a pretty cake. This cake goes well with Vanilla Ice Cream, of course.

Banana Cake as a gift

Banana Cake as a gift

 

The cream was really lovely. I wondered at first if Banana Cream with Banana Cake would be too much banana. Well, the answer was no. It wasn’t. It was awesome. My kids loved it and have grown to expect it whenever I make this cake. I think I will have to break them out of that expectation.

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake With Banana Cream

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake With Banana Cream

 

I just can’t get enough of this cream! I really should figure out the Bailey’s version. I must!!!

 

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake With Banana Cream

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake With Banana Cream

 

 

Please be sure to check out all the wonderful recipes brought to you by the #SundaySupper family!!

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Breakfasts, Apps & Main Dishes:

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Sweet Eats:

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Drinks:

 

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Tablescape:  A Romantic Table For Two Please from An Appealing Plan

***

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on Twitter on Sunday, February 10th to talk all about Valentine’s eats and treats!

We’ll tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world.  Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET and you do not want to miss out on the fun.

Follow the#SundaySupper hashtag, and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat.

Check out our#SundaySupper Pinterest board for more fabulous recipes and food photos!

 

 

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