chefspencil: November 2022

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

22 Best Kitchen Gifts in 2022

If you’re tired of gifting funny mugs or the same old food gift basket, we’ve compiled a list of creative kitchen gifts for him and her to help you with the process. Let’s get started!

1. Ice Cream Maker

Homemade ice cream? Yes please! You simply can’t go wrong with this. Make your own flavors and if you need some inspiration check out the most popular gelato flavors in Italy.

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2. Vintage Measuring Cups

These precious and beautifully decorated ceramic measuring cups would make for a wonderful gift for collectors and vintage lovers.

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3. Electric S’mores Maker

You will adore this Nostalgia indoor electric S’mores maker – a good way to break the clouds on a rainy day and bring the outdoor camping fun inside.

It makes the perfect centerpiece to a tent of sheets and pillows, decorated with white Christmas. Put cushions around the S’mores maker “camp fire” that could be hidden with small wooden logs. You can go an extra mile and place fluorescent stars above so the delicious treats can be enjoyed just like in the dark woods.

This device holds 4 compartment trays so you have the crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate all to hand for making a delicious creamy sandwich, and includes two forks.

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4. Herb Infuser

You can make your own mix of favorite herbs to infuse oil with this kitchen gadget. Salads will never taste the same again!

Infusion is a neat cooking technique that transfers the flavors of one fresh herb into oils, making them great bases for salad dressings, marinades, and sauces.

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5. Hot Dog Toaster

Weekends will be so much more fun with this vintage hot dog toaster that warms up the buns too. Good for unannounced small gatherings or for additional fun for stay overs. We love the retro look and it goes so well in any classic or modern designed kitchen.

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6. Ninja Personal Blender

A power breakfast exploding with nutrients to fuel the body for a proper start to the day, the Ninja Personal Blender will be a best friend. Breakfast on the run but still full of nutrients is served in a sip and seal lid cup that fits right in the car cup holder or a bag. Placed into a thermo bag it makes a great after workout meal. And for hot days, it crushes frozen fruit or ice to make refreshing beverages.

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7. Personalized Plate with Recipes

If you want to hand down your favorite recipe or even your mother’s recipe with those secret ingredients, you can do it on a plate – literally! And not only as edible finished product, although preferably both if possible.

Handwritten recipes can be printed on a plate, making it a beautiful decorative display of sweet memories for the kitchen or cherished plateau that serves the very desserts the recipe describes.

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8. Air Fryer

How about taking a guilty pleasure and turning it into a not so guilty one? Comfort food on all levels, fried foods are so devilish delicious they almost feed your soul. And if we take oil out of frying, fried food become so much healthier.

Air fryers don’t require preheating and they are ready for cooking in an instant, but the best part is that they uses hot air to fry your favorite foods with little or no added oil.

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9. Retro Toaster

Toast is as old as ancient Egypt where bread was toasted to revitalize it, making it more palatable. This vintage toaster is not only practical, but also gorgeous to look at. A slice of your favorite cheese will melt nicely on hot bread and crispy cut strips makes them good for dipping in a soft-boiled egg.

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10. Breakfast Station

Spoil your better half with a breakfast served in bed, like a real romantic or get things done easy with this 3-in-1 family size breakfast station for your entire squad.

Enjoy your moment of silence in comfy PJ’s with a hot cup of coffee while food is getting ready and staying warm as you wait for the other pretty little sleepy heads to show up. Eggs, toasts, crispy bacon, you name it and it will be served on a plate, hot and ready to eat.

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11. Poached Egg Maker

Instructions for poaching an egg are plentiful and often contradictory: from breaking the egg into a saucer before lowering into the water to boiling the egg for ten seconds in the shell before breaking it into water, or creating a whirlpool in the center of the pan and dropping each egg in individually.

Poached egg lovers need not worry because we’ve got the perfect device. Leave all the trouble to the Poached Egg Maker that makes up to 6 poached egg at a time.

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12. Instant Marinades

Marinated food is always better with all those added flavors and the tenderness it gains from the brine. This kitchen gadget has a vacuum pump that creates an airtight seal allowing a rapid uptake of brine and it has a large capacity of 2.5 liter /85 fl. Oz.

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12. Belgian Waffle Maker

Peaceful mornings call for comfort food that the whole family can enjoy together. And Belgian waffles make for a great breakfast and are simply delicious. Easy and clean, the Waffle Maker makes a gift for savory time spent together.

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13. Pancake Maker

Not a waffle fan? No problem. Get a pancake maker instead as pretty much everyone loves pancakes.

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14. Pizzelle Baker Press (Italian Cookies Maker)

If your loved one likes Italian Christmas cookies than this is the perfect Christmas gift. Pizzelle are hard and crisp or soft and chewy cookies made from flour, sugar, eggs, butter or vegetable oil and flavored with anise, vanilla or lemon zest.

Hazelnut spread makes them heavenly delicious and they can be shaped into cannoli with sweetened ricotta filling or any flavored cream.

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15. Instant Pot Ultra 10-in-1 Multi-Use

The Instant Pot Ultra 10-in-1 Multi-Use replaces 10 (!!) kitchen appliances: pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice/porridge cooker, yogurt maker, cake maker, egg cooker, sauté/searer, steamer, warmer and sterilizer. Yes, please, wrap it up and send it my way!

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16. Food Dehydrators

Apple chips, sweet potatoes chips, beet chips, kale chips, banana chips, mango chips or carrot chips are just some of many healthy treats that a food dehydrator can do. They are great at parties where everyone will love them, kids included.

A decadent and savory dip can be made with dried beef, scallions, pickled jalapenos and zesty herbs. Any foodie will love to explore the possibilities of using such a gift.

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17. KitchenAid Sifter and Scale Attachment

We like hands free devices but how would you like one in the kitchen? Yes, it is possible for appliances to take over and get any job you set them done. The Kitchen Aid Sifter and Scale Attachment is an all-in-one baking tool that accurately measures, thoroughly sifts, and automatically adds ingredients directly to your mixer bowl while you take care of other things.

This is what we call good multitasking. This will help a lot particularly with extended holiday preparations requiring all sorts of home baked cookies. Think about the time you’ll save for being with your loved ones or just for resting.

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18. Indoor Electric Grill

Grill lovers will no longer pout on rainy days because they can still get busy browning meat and vegetables within the walls of the kitchen. Recreating an outdoor barbecue party is possible with with this electric grill by Hamilton Beach that nicely puts grilling marks on food, and cooks evenly and with less smoke.

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19. Margaritaville Bali Frozen Concoction Maker

Because, as the song says, “girls just wanna’ have fun”, they will love this kitchen toy. Time to start a party and the host is Margaritaville Bali Frozen Concoction Maker, with self-dispensing lever and an auto remix channel which means that it blends the beverage and dispenses each serving. The perfect kitchen gift for someone who loves entertaining.

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20. Automatic Pot Stirrer

Another hands-free cooking device to help hands-full cooks. Pots can now be left unattended without the worry of burning the meal.

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21. Popcorn Machine

Enjoy your favorite snack made perfectly with this affordable popcorn machine. While were at it, check out our guide on the best oil for popcorn.

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22. Sous Vide Precision Cooker

This is a gift for the trendy cook that has it all, well, except for this: a Sous Vide Precision Cooker. With this device, the cooking process locks in flavor and moisture that can be easily noticed in the texture and taste of meat or vegetables.

This technique has been used in professional kitchens for decades and now is doable in the home kitchen with wi-fi connection. A kitchen gift that will meet the needs of gadget lovers and a foodies alike.

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If you want more gift ideas please check out our extensive guides below:

Chef’s Pencil is reader-supported. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, though this not impact the product selection, which is done independently by our editors and contributors.

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Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Most Popular Ethiopian Desserts

Ethiopian cuisine is well known for its healthy and nutritious minerals. But when it comes to desserts, there aren’t many out there. This is because Ethiopian food culture is different from other countries. Here, there is no three course meal structure and desserts are reserved exclusively for kids and holidays.

But there are well known local favorites like cheko, beso, katenga and so on. These Ethiopian desserts are mostly prepared during the holidays and for kids’ breakfast, or as a kind of snack for brunch.

1. Beso Chibeto

Every Ethiopian kid has beso before school or for weekend breakfast. It is one of the most popular foods in Ethiopia and is made with barley powder, butter, salt, and mitmita. It’s easy to make and tastes great. It is served with tea or milk.

After the meal is served, mom will grab a handful of beso and squeeze it tight to shape like the hand and then give it to the kids. This is what makes it beso chibeto. Chibeto is an Amharic word meaning grabbing something by the hand.

2. Cheko

Cheko is well known in the Oromo region. Similar to beso, cheko is also made with barley powder. The main difference is in the preparation.

Cheko is made with barley powder and butter, giving it a sweet taste. And because of the sweetness, everyone only has a very small portion, like a piece of chocolate.

3. Dabo kolo

Wheat dough is cut into small pieces and fried in a hot pan to make dabo kolo. Dabo kolo is made with wheat, sugar, salt, and butter or food oil. It is sweet and delicious.

4. Kolo

Kolo is popular in all parts of Ethiopia. It’s easy to make and is another delicious sweet. Kolo is often served to guests or at parties. It’s made with barley, butter, and berbere mixed together.

5. Katenga

In Ethiopia, there is a tradition when baking injera, where the last piece of injera is reserved for katenga. Katenga is made with a mix of berbere and butter, which is then smeared on top of the injera. It’s so delicious that you need to sit back and rest to savor the experience.

6. Tibinga/Sheleto

Tibinga is made with wheat dough, sugar, salt, and yeast. Looking like a small pancake, it is a favorite with kids and is a simple dish to serve with tea.

Top Ethiopian Traditional Christmas Foods

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Monday, November 28, 2022

5 Excellent Substitutes For Shortening

Shortening is used primarily in baking to make flaky and flavorful baked goods. Shortening is typically made from vegetable oils and is either pure white or a pale yellowish color. When chilled or at room temperature, shortening is a solid (similar to butter) and is often sold commercially in one-pound blocks.

It is much cheaper than butter so it is often used in commercial baking or the production of fast food or in large-scale pastry productions.

Since shortening is almost pure fat, it is very neutral in flavor and works great in baked goods. In fact, unlike many of the other fats on this list, shortening is used almost exclusively in baked goods.

It is very affordable and you will be able to find it in most stores, probably in the baking aisle. Some people prefer to steer clear from shortening as it is high in fat, and is therefore not recommended for those with health concerns. It is also heavily processed and made from vegetables and/or canola oil, which some dietitians recommend avoiding.

Shortening is also known for its waxy aftertaste, particularly if you’re using shortening in large amounts. Some bakers will use half shortening and half butter, which cuts the cost of using all butter, but increases the quality when using all shortening. You can try this at home, or try combining or substituting shortening with any one of the items on this list!

Either way, shortening is an important ingredient in many recipes especially in baking. If you choose not to eat shortening, or cannot find it, here are some other options for you to try!

1. Vegetable, Canola, or Olive Oil

Vegetable oil is essentially the melted version of shortening, so depending on what your recipe calls for, vegetable oil would make a great alternative. Like shortening, it is fairly neutral in flavor.

Olive oil is another healthy fat that will work in place of shortening because it becomes firm when chilled. However, olive oil will burn if cooked at a high temperature, and will also impart its signature olive flavor to whatever you’re cooking.

Use olive oil as a 1:1 ratio for shortening, or use half olive oil and half neutral-tasting oil like avocado or canola.

2. Butter or Margarine

Butter is probably the number one choice for a shortening substitute by chefs and pastry chefs because it is very similar in fat content (slightly lower) and texture, especially if your recipe calls for chilled shortening or butter.

If using butter as a substitute, it is important to note that butter is unsuitable for those who eat a plant-based diet or those who are lactose intolerant, so butter might not be the best alternative depending on who you are cooking for. However, butter does make a great substitute for shortening (and is often preferred in high-end bake shops!) in most pastry recipes, including savory and sweet options.

When shopping for butter, check the label to see if you are buying salted or unsalted. Like shortening, margarine is pale yellow and made from processed vegetable oil, and it also gets firm when chilled because of its high-fat content.

Margarine is also neutral in flavor and can be used 1:1 to shortening in sweet or savory baked goods and is probably the closest substitute on this list, other than butter.

Like shortening, margarine is not the healthiest of ingredients and is very highly processed. It is less firm than shortening, so if you need very firm shortening to cut into doughs, freeze the margarine first.

Make sure, if trying this, that you cut it into small cubes or balls before freezing, otherwise it will take too long to freeze. Because margarine is made of plant-based oils, you can use it for all dietary restrictions.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can be used in place of shortening to make your recipes more healthy because, unlike most fats, coconut oil can actually reduce cholesterol! For this reason, it is a wonderful alternative to shortening!

When chilled, coconut oil is solid, like shortening. You can add it to recipes in a 1:1 ratio, or better yet, use half coconut oil and half butter or margarine for a flaky and decadent result. The only downside of using coconut oil is that it can have a strong flavor, which gets stronger if cooked at high temperatures.

Most baked goods are not baked at such high temperatures (as with cookies, cakes, muffins, loaves, etc) but some doughs do call for a high temperature, in which case, coconut oil may not be the best alternative. In those cases, we recommend choosing butter or margarine instead.

4. Flax Seed

Although flax seeds is often thought of as an egg replacement, it can be used in baked goods as a replacement for shortening because it is very high in fat. To use flax seeds, you will need to select finely ground flax meal, or grind it yourself in a coffee grinder or high powered blender.

You will also want to choose a pale colored or light flax seed as using a dark variety will modify the color of your final recipe.

Next, mix the flaxseed with warm water using a 1:3 ratio, seed to water. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes very thick. You can then add this mixture to any recipe that calls for shortening.

Note that with this replacement, you may need to play around with the exact amounts for replacing, but in some applications, as with simple loaves or quickbreads, this substitute will work well and result in tender, rich, tasty baked goods!

5. Lard

Lard is made from pork fat which is cooked on an extremely low heat and strained over and over to produce a clear (pale white when chilled) and edible fat. Lard is known for making pasties rich and tender because of its very high fat content.

Lard has a robust meaty flavor that goes great with savory recipes and is the top choice for European pastry shops because of its richness. It is of course not suitable for anyone who does not or cannot eat pork for cultural or religious reasons, and is obviously not suitable for anyone who does not eat meat!

Shortening is an excellent option for all baking applications for its neutral flavor and low cost. You can substitute shortening for many of the options on this list at a 1:1 ratio and it will not impact your recipe much. Shortening comes in a variety of brands, such as Crisco brand vegetable shortening, but most shortening is the same.

If you are looking to make something a little more high-end and cost is not an issue, you may prefer butter or coconut oil. If you do not want to cook with processed ingredients, then any one of the substitutes on this list will make a great alternative to shortening in your next recipe!

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Sunday, November 27, 2022

7 Fantastic Alternatives for Tofu

Tofu is one of those foods that you either love or hate. But we think tofu has a bad reputation and we’re ready to change it!

It is believed that tofu was invented by accident when a Chinese cook accidentally added nagari to a pot of simmering soy milk! As you may have guessed, tofu is made from soybeans, using a similar process to cheese making.

Instead of heating dairy milk and curdling it with bacteria or acid, for tofu, soy milk is heated and curdled with a special protein. The liquid is then strained and pressed into blocks. The result can be quite bland, as it often doesn’t contain any other ingredients, but the good news is, tofu is super absorbent, so anything you marinate tofu in will sink right in!

Tofu comes in a variety of types and textures. The very soft (or ‘silken,’ which is a shelf-stable variety) tofu is gelatinous and creamy and blends easily. The firm tofu is sliceable and holds its shape when cooked. Tofu also comes pre-cut and marinated in a variety of flavors… looks like we’re not the only ones trying to change your mind about tofu!

Tofu is super nutrient-dense and contains almost no fat. It is rich in calcium and plant-based protein, and is a very important ingredient in many Asian cultures for its affordability and versatility.

It is becoming much more popular in Western cultures, especially for vegans and vegetarians, and is likely available at any grocery store near you. However, if you cannot find tofu, or still feel averse to it, here are a few great tofu substitutes to try.

1. Tempeh

Tempeh is a perfect substitute for tofu as it is made in a very similar way with similar ingredients. Both are made from soy. However, tempeh often contains other grains (lentils, millet, quinoa, etc), meaning it is even higher in protein and fiber!

Tempeh is also made by pressing blocks of curdled soy milk, the only real difference being that tempeh goes through a fermentation process. This means tempeh often has a deeper, richer flavor, which some describe it as nutty and dense, and is actually even more nutritious.

Tempeh lovers swear by its versatility and say it is easier to digest than tofu, which makes sense because of its long fermentation. Tempeh is an ideal substitute for tofu, especially firm or extra firm tofu, when baked or marinated, in soups, sandwiches, and even when grilled.

However, if you’re looking for a replacement for soft tofu, you may want to look to one of the other ingredients on this list.

2. Seitan

Seitan is another product that is loved in the plant-based world because it serves as a meat substitute. Seitan differs substantially from tofu because it is made with wheat gluten kneaded with water, spices, and sometimes soy sauce.

It is then steamed (or baked) in loaf forms, and then served any way that meat might be served – grilled, fried, stewed, shredded, etc.

It is popular on sandwiches or in soups, so it serves as an excellent tofu replacement! It is important to note that the flavor and texture of tofu and seitan are quite different, so it may not always be the best substitute, but it is a tasty one and worth trying!

2. Nuts, Especially Cashews

Soft tofu is often blended and turned into condiments or used to make creamy soups. For anyone with a soy allergy, or if you cannot find tofu, you can certainly use cashews for the same effect! It is recommended that you use raw cashews for this, and soak them overnight in cold water.

You can then blend them and achieve a very similar result to blended soft tofu! The fat content of cashews adds a richness and depth of flavor.

3. Beans

Another great protein-rich alternative to tofu is beans! Beans of all kinds, but especially pinto beans, chickpeas, black beans, or kidney beans.

These will all work well in soups, salads, or in main dishes. You can also mash beans to turn them into a paste, which is similar to medium tofu for using as a binding agent for patties or fritters.

Beans are a super healthy food because, like tofu, they are full of fiber and very low in fat. Beans also keep you full for a long time and can be bought pre-cooked in cans, or boiled and cooked at home, which is the most economical option.

4. Texturized Vegetable Protein

Otherwise known as TVP, Texturized Vegetable Protein is a dried, high-protein option that can be hydrated, cooked, and used in place of tofu.

TVP is a favorite in the plant-based community because it is shelf stable and very cheap. Once hydrated, it can be simmered or pan-fried, and it acts like shredded meat, making it a favorable tofu replacement! TVP can be flavored with virtually anything and is nutritious and low in fat!

5. Cheese (Vegan or Non-Vegan)

Cheese can be a great alternative to tofu, especially non-melting cheeses like halloumi or paneer. If your recipe calls for soft tofu you can use other types of cheeses like fromage blanc.

If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, there are some great vegan cheese brands available which make for a great tofu substitute. Many vegan cheeses are made with soy milk so the consistency and taste will be similar.

6. Meat

Meat, especially chicken, is a great replacement for tofu! Chicken is high in protein as well, and chicken breast is relatively lean, making it a healthy option. Chicken can also be marinated and flavored in any way you want and, like tofu, is very versatile.

If you have a recipe that requires firm tofu, such as stirfry, pasta, soup, or curry, you can absolutely use diced chicken instead! It is worth noting that chicken must be thoroughly cooked, whereas tofu can be eaten raw, so you will need to cook your recipe for longer.

7. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are similar to tofu in texture and water content and are famous for being little sponges that absorb just about anything! Mushrooms, like tofu, can also be eaten raw or stewed, sautéed, fried, grilled, or baked, making them super versatile.

Mushrooms can be added to tofu or used as a replacement. Although mushrooms are very nutritious, they do not contain nearly as much calcium or protein as tofu, so if you’re using mushrooms as a replacement, you may want to also add some nuts, beans, or meat to your dish too.

As tofu becomes more popular in the Western world, it is becoming increasingly easier to find in big grocery stores and even in small shops. This is a wonderful thing for those who enjoy it! However, there will always be folks unwilling to try it and even those who don’t like it.

Soy allergies are also becoming more prevalent, so there is a need for these delicious and affordable substitutions. We think you’ll find any one of these a good alternative to cooking with tofu and encourage you to try any one or all of them! Tempeh is likely the best bet for firm tofu replacements, whereas blended cashews are a great alternative for soft tofu.

Related: Vegan Moussaka Recipe

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9 Good Fromage Blanc Substitutes

Fromage blanc, or white cheese, is a popular French cheese. It is popular in Europe for its mild flavor and versatility and is enjoyed for breakfast with fruit, in savory dishes, or served plain on cheese boards. It can also be used as a filling for pasta or sandwiches and due to its low-fat content it is relatively healthy compared to many other French cheeses.

Fromage blanc is a low-fat cheese, as it is primarily made with skim milk. Sometimes cream is added to make it richer and more flavorful, so make sure you check the label if this is a concern for you.

Overall, Fromage blanc is a popular, palatable cheese but it can be a bit hard to find outside of Europe. If your recipe calls for it, you can use any one of the following cheeses as a reasonable (and tasty!) fromage blanc substitute.

1. Queso Fresco

Queso Fresco is a soft, pure white, crumbly cheese that is mild and salty. This raw cow’s milk cheese is often made at homes by curdling and pressing milk.

If you want to try making this cheese yourself, it’s quite easy. Just bring whole milk to a boil and curdle it using an acid (lemon juice or vinegar work well!) For this homemade cheese to work as fromage blanc, skip the pressing step, and just serve it as is!

2. Goat’s Cheese

Although goat’s cheese (or chevré) is known for having a very specific flavor profile, the texture is quite similar to fromage blanc in that it is thick and creamy.

You may want to use goat’s cheese in combination with ricotta or another cheese from this list, as it can be overpowering, but if you love the flavor, then go for it!!

3. Ricotta

Fromage blanc often serves as a filling for savory dishes such as crepes, ravioli, or Mexican fare such as burritos or enchiladas. For these, you can use a very soft cheese such as ricotta to achieve the same texture and flavor profile.

Ricotta may also be less expensive, so if you’re cooking en masse, this might be a good route to go. Keep in mind that ricotta and other soft, unripened cheeses spoil quickly, so use them up quickly once they are open.

3. Cream Cheese (or Vegan Cream Cheese)

Cream cheese is very similar to fromage blanc because it is spreadable, mild in flavor, and pure white. Cream cheese is used as sandwich spreads and for fillings, but its primary use is for baked cheesecakes, which are very popular in Europe and the west.

The super creamy texture and mouth-feel of cream cheese makes for an excellent substitute for fromage blanc, and the only main difference is the slightly tangy flavor of cream cheese and its richness, because cream cheese is made from milk and cream. Its fat content can be double or even triple that of fromage blanc, so be sure to consider this.

Vegan cream cheese is becoming increasingly easier to find as more folks adopt a plant-based diet or have dairy allergies, so if you’re looking to make your cheese-based recipes more vegan-friendly, try a store-bought vegan cream cheese (often soy-based).

4. Mascarpone

This silky smooth, spreadable, soft cheese is probably the closest cheese to fromage blanc in flavor, texture, and consistency. Like fromage blanc, mascarpone, as it is often very low in salt and is often served as a dessert.

Mascarpone is made from pure heavy cream and is much richer than fromage blanc, which is made with skim milk and sometimes a touch of cream. So, depending on the application, it might be the best substitute you will find!

5. Sour Cream, Yogurt (or Vegan Versions)

Sour cream and yogurt might be tangier than you are looking for, so keep this in mind when using it as a direct replacement for fromage blanc.

Sour cream is a cultured dairy product that is not technically a cheese. However, it is an excellent alternative because it is pure white, super creamy, and contains little to no salt. Again, this will depend on the application in which you are using this alternative, but give it a try!

6. Cotija Cheese

Cotija is an aged Mexican cheese made from fermented cow’s milk and can be aged anywhere from one week to six months.

Regardless of its age, cotija is characterized by its salty, milky flavor. When this cheese is aged for a long time, it becomes firm and dry, but the younger version of cotija has a mild, crumbly texture.

No matter what you’re cooking, whether it is a classic Mexican dish, some sort of fusion, or something different altogether, cotija is an excellent addition to any recipe and will be a reasonable replacement for fromage blanc.

7. Cottage Cheese

Very similar to ricotta, cottage cheese makes a good alternative to fromage blanc (or any soft, mild cheese) but has a different texture entirely, so keep this in mind when choosing a replacement.

Cottage cheese has larger curds that can be anywhere from mealy to gritty to chewy. So if you’re looking for a smooth texture, this may not be the best alternative.

Cottage cheese is, however, super nutritious and goes great with a lot of the same foods fromage blanc is served with, including fresh or dried fruit, cereals, muesli, and honey.

8. Soft Tofu

Did you know that by placing soft tofu in a blender and adding a very small amount of lemon juice, you are basically left with an awesome vegan fromage blanc replacement!?

You can use this interchangeably with all soft cheese recipes, but keep in mind that it has that certain flavor that soy products often have. Soft tofu works as a replacement if you’re making baked dishes.

9. Quark

Quark is an European cheese that is often made at home but is also sold in supermarkets, especially in Eastern and Central Europe.

In Germany, quark is served all day in the form of quark and muesli, quark and fruit, sliced on sandwiches, whipped, with bread, on salads and savory dishes, and, probably its most popular usage, baked cheesecake.

Quark is also used as a filling in various pastries, and the thicker versions can come battered and fried in the form of a savory or sweet doughnut. Quark is very popular in Germany, the Baltics, and Slovakia and we think once you give it a try, you will love it too! It makes a great replacement if you cannot find fromage blanc.

Freshly made fromage blanc is a real treat, but is not easy to find in North America. It is sometimes called marqée, or white cheese, and is a favorite of French children because of its milk and neutral flavor. In essence, fromage blanc is similar to a very thick Greek yogurt in consistency and texture, but can also be spreadable like mascarpone or cream cheese, though it can be firmer and resemble cotija or queso fresco.

Like these cheeses, fromage blanc is always pure white in color and unaged, meaning once it’s made, it is ready to eat!

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Thursday, November 24, 2022

Carapulcra

Carapulcra is a special stew-like dish made with dehydrated potatoes and either pork or chicken which is then dressed with a combination of onion, garlic, clove, yellow peppers, salt and pepper. This is all cooked on a low flame and, once done, baked peanuts are added to give the dish it’s very particular taste. It can be served with rice or yucca, either way the taste is magnificent. The baked peanuts are what really make this dish as unique as it is.

If you love Peruvian food, check out our article on the top 15 Peruvian foods (recipes and photos included).

Carapulcra

Carapulcra is a special stew-like dish made with dehydrated potatoes and either pork or chicken which is then dressed with a combination of onion, garlic, clove, yellow peppers, salt and pepper.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Peruvian

Prep Time 1 hour

Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes

Servings people

Ingredients

1/2 kg dehydrated Potatoes
1/2 kg Pork meat cut into pieces
1 large onion diced
3 tablespoons Aji panca
1/2 tablespoon ground Garlic
chicken broth
150 g ground Peanuts
Boiled Yucca
Oil
salt to taste

Instructions

In a hot pan, brown the dried potatoes and pour them into a bowl of water to hydrate them.
Once hydrated (you’ll be able to tell, since they’ll be swollen), rinse them well and let them drain.
Now, in a pot, fry the pieces of meat in very hot oil and season it with the garlic and salt. Then put it aside.
In the same pot, fry the onion very well, then add the ají panca, and the garlic, and let it all brown. Then stir to integrate the ingredients well.
Finally, put in the dried potatoes and add the broth as it thickens until everything is cooked, then mix it with the meat that you put aside and let it boil.
Serve the stew with the boiled Yucca.

Notes

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