PUMPKIN PIE

Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert that has become a staple during the fall season in the United States. This delicious pie is made with a rich, creamy filling that is flavoured with pumpkin, cinnamon, and other spices and is typically served with whipped cream or ice cream. The history of pumpkin pie can be traced back to colonial times when early American settlers made pies using pumpkin as a filling.

Here is a special recipe for making pumpkin pie at home:

Ingredients:

- 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree

- 1 cup of heavy cream

- 1/2 cup of brown sugar

- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

- 1/2 tsp. ground ginger

- 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

- 1/4 tsp. ground cloves

- 1/2 tsp. salt

- 1 unbaked pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until everything is well combined.

3. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly across the surface.

4. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 45-50 minutes, or until the pie is set and the crust is golden brown.

5. Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.

This recipe for pumpkin pie is sure to impress your friends and family and is perfect for any fall occasion. The combination of sweet pumpkin and warm spices makes for a delicious and comforting dessert that is sure to become a family favourite.

One of the great things about pumpkin pie is that it is very versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Some people like to add a touch of vanilla extract to their pumpkin pie filling, while others like to use a different type of crust, such as a graham cracker crust or a gluten-free crust. Whatever your preferences may be, pumpkin pie is a delicious and classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

 MOZZARELLA CHEESE. 

Mozzarella cheese is one of the most popular types of cheese in the world, beloved for its mild, creamy flavour and versatility in cooking. It's commonly used in pizzas, pasta, salads, and sandwiches, but can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack. In this article, we'll explore the ingredients and procedure for making mozzarella cheese from scratch.

Ingredients:

- 1 gallon of whole milk

- 1 1/2 teaspoons of citric acid

- 1/4 teaspoon of liquid rennet

- 1/2 cup of non-chlorinated water

- 1 tablespoon of salt

Procedure:

1. Heat the milk: Pour the gallon of whole milk into a large pot and heat it over medium-low heat until it reaches 88°F. Stir it gently to ensure that the temperature is consistent throughout the pot.

2. Add the citric acid: In a small bowl, mix the citric acid with 1/4 cup of non-chlorinated water until it's fully dissolved. Pour the mixture into the pot of heated milk and stir gently for 30 seconds.

3. Add the rennet: In another small bowl, mix the liquid rennet with 1/4 cup of non-chlorinated water. Pour the mixture into the pot of heated milk and stir gently for 30 seconds.

4. Let the mixture sit: Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. During this time, the milk will start to coagulate and form curds.

5. Cut the curds: Using a long knife, cut the curds into small pieces. Start by making vertical cuts, then horizontal cuts, and then diagonal cuts. This will create small, even curds.

6. Heat the curds: Place the pot back on the stove over low heat and slowly heat the curds to 105°F. Stir the curds gently to prevent them from clumping together.

7. Drain the whey: Once the curds have reached 105°F, use a slotted spoon to scoop them out of the pot and place them in a cheesecloth-lined colander. Allow the whey to drain out of the curds for 15-20 minutes.

8. Add salt: Once the whey has drained out of the curds, sprinkle them with 1 tablespoon of salt and mix gently.

9. Stretch the cheese: Microwave the curds on high for 1 minute. Using a pair of heat-resistant gloves, remove the curds from the microwave and fold them over onto themselves. Repeat this process 2-3 times until the cheese becomes stretchy and pliable.

10. Form the cheese: Once the cheese is stretchy, shape it into a ball or log. You can also tear it into smaller pieces if desired.

11. Cool the cheese: Place the cheese in a bowl of ice water for 15-20 minutes to cool and set.

Congratulations, you have now made your very own mozzarella cheese! Enjoy it on pizza, in a Caprese salad, or any other way you like.

Nigeria Beef Suya

 Nigeria Beef Suya: A Delicious and Flavorful Grilled Delicacy

Nigeria is home to some of the most delicious dishes in Africa, and one of these dishes is the famous Beef Suya. Suya is a grilled meat delicacy that is popularly sold by street vendors and can be found in almost every corner of Nigeria. It is a staple at social gatherings, and it is enjoyed by both locals and tourists. The dish is usually served with onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers, and it is best eaten with cold drinks at night. 

Ingredients

- 1 kg of beef

- 1 cup of Suya spice (a mixture of ground peanuts, chilli pepper, salt, and other spices)

- 1 tablespoon of ground ginger

- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder

- 1 tablespoon of paprika

- 1 tablespoon of onion powder

- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

- Skewers

Procedure

1. Cut the beef into thin slices and place them in a large bowl.

2. In a separate bowl, mix the Suya spice, ginger, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.

3. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the beef slices and mix thoroughly to coat the meat.

4. Cover the bowl with cling film and let the meat marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavour.

5. Soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.

6. Thread the beef slices onto the skewers, making sure to leave some space between the slices to allow for even grilling.

7. Brush the beef with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and place it on a preheated grill.

8. Grill the beef for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

9. Once the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and serve it hot with sliced onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Nigeria Beef Suya is a flavorful and delicious grilled meat that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. The combination of spices used in making the Suya spice gives the beef a unique and rich taste that is hard to resist. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy as it is made with fresh ingredients and lean beef. So, the next time you are in Nigeria, make sure to try out the Beef Suya, and you won't regret it.

 Here is a recipe for making Suya spice:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups of roasted peanuts

- 1/4 cup of paprika

- 1/4 cup of cayenne pepper

- 2 tablespoons of garlic powder

- 2 tablespoons of ginger powder

- 1 tablespoon of onion powder

- 1 tablespoon of salt

- 1 teaspoon of sugar

Procedure:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Spread the peanuts on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

3. Allow the peanuts to cool, then remove the skins by rubbing them together with a kitchen towel.

4. Grind the peanuts in a blender or food processor until they form a coarse powder.

5. In a bowl, mix the peanut powder with the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, ginger powder, onion powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.

6. Store the Suya spice in an airtight container in a cool, dry place until ready to use.

Suya spice is a versatile spice blend that can be used to add flavour to a variety of dishes. It is best known for its use in making Beef Suya, but it can also be used to season chicken, fish, and vegetables. The blend of spices in the Suya spice gives it a unique and complex flavour profile that is both spicy and nutty. Making your own Suya spice at home is simple and allows you to customize the spice blend to your taste preferences.

 

CHICKEN MASALA. 

 Indian cuisine is known for its aromatic spices and bold flavours, and one of the most popular dishes is chicken masala. This flavorful and hearty dish is a staple in Indian households and can be found in restaurants around the world. In this article, we'll explore the history and ingredients of chicken masala and provide a recipe for you to try at home.

Chicken masala, also known as chicken tikka masala, is a dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent, but its exact origins are unclear. Some say that it was created in the UK by Indian chefs who wanted to cater to the British palate, while others believe that it has been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries. Regardless of its origins, chicken masala has become a beloved dish around the world and is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

The key to making a delicious chicken masala is the combination of spices used in the marinade and the sauce. The marinade typically consists of yoghurt, ginger, garlic, and a blend of Indian spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The chicken is marinated in this mixture for several hours, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavour.

The sauce for chicken masala is a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce that is flavoured with more Indian spices. The sauce usually contains tomatoes, onions, and a mixture of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chilli powder. The chicken is added to the sauce and simmered until it is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Here is a simple recipe for chicken masala that you can try at home:

Ingredients:

- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

- 1/2 cup plain yoghurt

- 2 tablespoons ginger paste

- 2 tablespoons garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin powder

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

- 1 teaspoon chilli powder

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- Cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the yoghurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the diced tomatoes and chilli powder to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.

5. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully coated.

6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

In conclusion, chicken masala is a flavorful and delicious dish that is perfect for anyone who loves Indian cuisine or bold and spicy flavours. With this recipe, you can easily make chicken masala at home and enjoy the rich and creamy tomato-based sauce and tender marinated chicken. So why not give it a try and experience the flavours of India in your

      CHINESE STIR-FRIED RICE. 

Chinese stir-fried rice is a popular dish that is both flavorful and versatile. It is a dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, making it a great way to use up leftover vegetables or proteins. The dish is typically made with cooked rice, which is then stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and/or meat. The following is an overview of Chinese stir-fried rice, its history, and how to make it.

History of Chinese Stir-Fried Rice

Stir-fried rice is believed to have originated in China, where it is known as chǎofàn. The dish dates back to the Sui Dynasty (581-618 AD), when it was a popular street food sold by vendors who used leftover rice and vegetables to create a quick and affordable meal. Over time, the dish evolved and became a staple of Chinese cuisine. Today, stir-fried rice is enjoyed around the world and can be found in many variations, each with its unique ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients for Chinese Stir-Fried Rice

- Cooked rice (preferably chilled or day-old)

- Cooking oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)

- Chopped vegetables (such as carrots, peas, onions, garlic, and bell peppers)

- Eggs

- Cooked meat (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp)

- Soy sauce

- Salt and pepper

Procedure for Making Chinese Stir-Fried Rice

1. Cook the rice: The first step in making Chinese stir-fried rice is to cook the rice. Use a rice cooker or cook it on the stovetop according to the package instructions. The rice should be cooked and cooled before making the stir-fry.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. You can use any vegetables that you like, but some popular options include carrots, peas, onions, garlic, and bell peppers.

3. Scramble the eggs: In a wok or large skillet, heat some cooking oil over medium-high heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl and add them to the hot oil. Use a spatula to scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.

4. Stir-fry the vegetables and meat: Add more oil to the pan and add the chopped vegetables and cooked meat. Stir-fry them until they are cooked through and tender.

5. Add the rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry it with the vegetables and meat. Use a spatula to break up any clumps of rice and mix everything together.

6. Season the stir-fry: Drizzle some soy sauce over the rice and vegetables and season with salt and pepper. Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan and stir everything together until it is well combined.

7. Serve: Transfer the stir-fried rice to a serving dish and enjoy while it is still warm.

Conclusion

Chinese stir-fried rice is a classic dish that is easy to make and packed with flavor. It is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables, making it an affordable and convenient meal option. With a little bit of practice and experimentation, you can create your unique version of this beloved dish.

 

 

KIMCHI: 

Kimchi is a staple of Korean cuisine and has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its unique flavour and health benefits. This traditional dish is made by fermenting vegetables, typically Napa cabbage, with a spicy blend of chilli paste, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. The result is a tangy, spicy, and slightly sour flavour that is unlike anything else.

The history of kimchi dates back thousands of years, with evidence of fermented vegetables being consumed as far back as the Three Kingdoms period of Korea (57 BC - 668 AD). Over time, the recipe for kimchi evolved and became more complex, with different regions of Korea developing their unique variations.

One of the reasons that kimchi has become so popular around the world is because of its many health benefits. The fermentation process used to make kimchi creates healthy bacteria known as probiotics, which are essential for maintaining good gut health. Additionally, kimchi is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron.

Another reason for kimchi's popularity is its versatility. While traditional kimchi is made with Napa cabbage, many other vegetables can be used, such as radishes, cucumbers, and carrots. Kimchi can also be used as a condiment or ingredient in a variety of dishes, such as fried rice, soups, and stews.

Making kimchi at home can be a time-consuming process, but it is relatively simple. First, the vegetables are cut into bite-sized pieces and mixed with a paste made from chilli flakes, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and other seasonings. Then, the mixture is packed tightly into a jar or other container and left to ferment at room temperature for several days to several weeks, depending on the desired level of sourness.

While kimchi is a beloved staple of Korean cuisine, it has also faced controversy in recent years due to its high sodium content. Some health experts have expressed concern that consuming too much kimchi could lead to health problems, such as high blood pressure. However, it is worth noting that in Korea, kimchi is typically eaten in small quantities as a side dish rather than as a main course.

In conclusion, kimchi is a delicious and nutritious food that has become a favourite around the world. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, traditional or with a modern twist, kimchi is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal.

INGREDIENTS: 

• 1 head of Napa cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces. 
• 1/2 cup of kosher salt. 
• 1/2 cup of kosher chilli flakes (gochugaru)
• 1/4 cup of chopped garlic. 
• 1/4  cup of fish sauce. 
• 1 tablespoon of chopped ginger. 
• 1 tablespoon of sugar. 
• 3-4 green onions, chopped 
• 1/2 cup of shredded carrots (optional).

 Procedure: 

1. Wash and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, discarding the tough core. 

2. In a large bowl, mix the cabbage with salt until it is evenly distributed. Let it sit for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has wilted. 

3. Drain the cabbage in a colander and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt. Let it drain for 10-15 minutes. 

4. In a separate bowl, mix the chilli flakes, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar and green onions until well combined. Add the shredded carrots if desired. 

5. Add the cabbage to the chilli paste and mix well, making sure that the cabbage is evenly coated with the paste. 

6. Pack the mixture tightly into a jar or other container, pressing down to remove any air pockets. Leave about 1-2 inches of headspace at the top. 

7 . Cover the container with a lid, but do not seal it tightly. Let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 days, depending on the desired level of fermentation. Check it daily and press down on the cabbage to release any gas that may have built up. 

8. After 1-2 days, transfer the kimchi to the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process. It can be eaten immediately, but the flavours will continue to develop over time. Kimchi can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks to several months, depending on the level of fermentation. 

NOTE: it is important to use clean utensils and containers when making kimchi to prevent the growth of bacteria. Additionally, if you are new to making kimchi, it may be helpful to follow the recipe or watch a video tutorial to ensure that you are doing it correctly.

  Chinese Noodles(Lo mein).

 Lo mein is a popular Chinese noodle dish that has gained popularity around the world for its delicious flavour and versatility. It is a stir-fried dish that typically consists of soft, wheat-based noodles that are cooked together with vegetables and meat, and then seasoned with a savoury sauce.

The origins of lo mein can be traced back to the Han dynasty in China, where it was known as "ban mian." Over time, the dish evolved to become what we now know as lo mein, and it has become a staple in Chinese cuisine.

One of the reasons why lo mein is so popular is because it is a very versatile dish. It can be made with a variety of meats and vegetables, which makes it easy to adapt to different dietary preferences and restrictions. For example, you can make lo mein with chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu, and you can add vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy.

To make lo mein, you will need the following ingredients:

- 8 oz lo mein noodles

- 1 cup sliced vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, bok choy, or snow peas)

- 1 cup sliced meat (such as chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu)

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp oyster sauce

- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce

- 1 tsp sesame oil

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.

3. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the meat and stir-fry until it is cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add the vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir-fry for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

6. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over the top. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the sauce and heated through.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Lo mein is a simple and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a lazy weekend dinner. With its tender noodles, crunchy vegetables, and savoury sauce, it's no wonder that this dish has become a favourite among Chinese food lovers everywhere. So why not give it a try and experience the delicious flavours of lo mein for yourself?