Crispy Chicken Thighs

Introduction

In times of self-isolation, cooking can be both a therapeutic and enjoyable activity. It allows us to explore new recipes and create comforting meals from the safety of our homes. Bake with Shivesh offers an array of self-isolation recipes to help you make the best out of this situation. These recipes are designed to be simple, delicious, and adaptable to the ingredients you may have on hand.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Flour: 2 cups
Sugar: 1 cup
Butter: 1/2 cup (softened)
Eggs: 2
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Milk: 1/2 cup
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

With these recipes at your fingertips, you’ll find that self-isolation can be an opportunity to whip up some delightful treats and meals for you and your loved ones.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Banana Bread

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash 3 ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Stir in 1/3 cup melted butter into the mashed bananas.
4. Mix in 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt.
5. Add 3/4 cup of sugar, 1 large egg (beaten), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well.
6. Finally, stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 60-65 minutes.
8. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Egg Fried Rice

1. Cook 2 cups of rice as per the package instructions and let it cool.
2. Heat a large pan or wok over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
3. Add 2 beaten eggs, scrambling until fully cooked, then remove them from the pan.
4. In the same pan, sauté 1 chopped onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 cup of mixed vegetables until soft.
5. Add the cooled rice to the pan and stir well to combine.
6. Return the scrambled eggs back to the pan and mix well.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
6. Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips.
7. Drop tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Vegetable Soup

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in 2 chopped carrots and 2 stalks of chopped celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add 1 can of diced tomatoes and 4 cups of vegetable broth to the pot.
5. Mix in 2 cups of chopped mixed vegetables (like beans, peas, and corn).
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (such as thyme or basil).
7. Simmer the soup for 20-30 minutes before serving.

Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil

1. Cook 400g of spaghetti or pasta of your choice according to package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1/2 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté until golden.
4. Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil and toss to coat.
6. If the pasta is dry, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Banana Bread

– Use overripe bananas for added sweetness.
– You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Egg Fried Rice

– Leftover rice works best for frying as it will be less sticky.
– Customize with any vegetables you have on hand.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

– Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
– Substitute with nuts for an added crunch.

Vegetable Soup

– Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
– This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil

– Experiment with different pasta shapes.
– A sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese before serving enhances flavor.

Cook techniques

Mixing

Mixing is essential for achieving the right texture in your baked goods. It’s important to combine ingredients thoroughly, whether you are mixing wet and dry ingredients or creaming butter and sugar. Use a whisk for dry ingredients and a mixer for wet ones for the best results.

Baking

Baking is a method of cooking that uses dry heat in an oven. The temperature and timing are crucial; always preheat your oven for consistent results. Keep an eye on your dish as it bakes to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

Whipping

Whipping air into ingredients like cream or egg whites is key for light and airy textures. Use a mixer for speed and efficiency, and be careful not to over-whip, as this can lead to a grainy texture.

Greasing and Flour Dusting

Greasing and flouring pans help prevent sticking. Use butter or oil to grease the pan, followed by a sprinkle of flour, ensuring all surfaces are coated evenly for easy release.

Chilling

Chilling dough can enhance flavors and improve texture. It firms up butter in pastries and allows for easier handling. Always wrap dough tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Sifting

Sifting dry ingredients ensures an even mix and eliminates clumps. It can also aerate flour, which may improve the texture of cakes and pastries.

Folding

Folding is a gentle technique used to combine ingredients without deflating air. Use a spatula to smoothly lift and turn the mixture, preserving its lightness, as seen in batters and whipped mixtures.

Tempering

Tempering is crucial when working with chocolate or eggs to prevent curdling. Slowly bring the temperature of a cold ingredient up by gradually mixing in a hot liquid or mixture.

Caramelizing

Caramelizing sugar adds depth and flavor to desserts. Heat sugar on low to medium heat until it melts and turns golden-brown, then use it as a sauce or in recipes.

FAQ

What can I substitute for eggs in baking?

Popular egg substitutes include applesauce, mashed bananas, yogurt, or commercial egg replacers, depending on the recipe.

How can I tell if my baked goods are done?

Check for a golden color, a springy touch in the center, or a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Why is my cake dense?

A dense cake may result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Always measure flour properly and mix until just combined.

Can I adjust the baking temperature?

Yes, but when doing so, be sure to keep an eye on the baking time. Lower temperatures generally require longer baking.

How do I store baked goods?

Store products in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if they contain perishable ingredients. Freeze for long-term storage.

Why is my bread not rising?

Bread may not rise due to inactive yeast or incorrect water temperature. Ensure yeast is fresh and water is warm, not hot.

What should I do if my chocolate chips sink in cookies?

Chilling the cookie dough before baking can help prevent chocolate chips from sinking. Additionally, try tossing the chips with a little flour beforehand.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but whole wheat flour may yield denser baked goods. Consider combining it with all-purpose flour for better results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, self-isolation can be turned into a delightful culinary adventure. With simple ingredients and creative recipes, you can keep your spirits high while exploring new flavors and techniques. Baking not only nourishes the body but also the mind, making it an excellent way to pass the time during these challenging days.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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Classic Chicken Soup

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Fluffy Banana Pancakes

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Vegetable Stir-Fry

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Chocolate Mug Cake

A simple and indulgent dessert that takes only a few minutes to prepare and cook in the microwave.

Homemade Pizza

Craft your own pizza with whatever toppings you have at home; it’s fun and a great way to involve the whole family.

Oven-Baked Garlic Bread

A perfect side to any meal, this garlic bread is easy to make and pairs well with pasta or soups.

Fruit Smoothie Bowl

A refreshing and healthy breakfast option loaded with your favorite fruits, topped with nuts and seeds for added crunch.