Diabetic Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Friday, April 30, 2021

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Yay! Here are six yummy diabetic recipes to help you through the weekend, including Grilled Turkey, Portabella Mushrooms and Vegetable Kebabs and Vanilla Chai Coffee Cooler. Enjoy!

GRILLED INDIAN KABOBS WITH SWEET ONIONS AND RED BELL PEPPERS

Recipe Yield: Serves 8-10.

Source: NPB

Recipe and image appear courtesy of the National Pork Board.

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/grilled-indian-kabobs-with-sweet-onions-and-red-bell-peppers.

Ingredients

1 bone-in sirloin pork roast, about 4 pounds, boned and cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes

2 large red bell peppers, seeded, deribbed, and cut into 1-inch squares

2 large sweet onions, such as Walla Walla or Vidalia, cut into 1-inch chunks

12 (12-inch) skewers , soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Vegetable oil cooking spray

Indian Spice Paste:

4 large cloves garlic

2 tablespoons curry powder

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground coriander

1/4 teaspoon cayenne

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons water

Directions

To make Indian spice paste, place garlic in food processor and process until minced. Add spices, lemon juice, oil, and water. Process until thoroughly combined.

Place pork in large self-sealing plastic bag. Pour paste over pork and mix pork with paste until pork is evenly coated. Seal bag and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.

Prepare medium-hot fire in charcoal grill or preheat gas grill to medium high. Thread pork onto skewers, alternating with pieces of red pepper and onion. Spray grill grate with vegetable oil spray. Grill kabobs directly over medium-hot fire, turning to brown evenly on all sides, for total of 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to warm platter or individual dinner plates and serve.

Notes:

These delicious, colorful kabobs are terrific served with a medley of grilled vegetables. The Indian spice rub can be made several days in advance. Place in a covered jar and refrigerate until ready to use.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 225; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 2 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Cholesterol: 80 mg; Protein: 27 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g

GRILLED TURKEY, PORTABELLA MUSHROOMS AND VEGETABLE KEBABS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The National Turkey Federation

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/grilled-turkey-portabella-mushrooms-and-vegetable-kebabs.

Ingredients

1-1/2 to 2 pounds turkey thighs, skinned, boned & cut into 1-inch cubes

2 whole portabella mushrooms, stemmed & quartered

1/2 cup green onions, chopped

1/3 cup olive oil

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 teaspoon dried tarragon

1/2 medium red bell pepper, seeded & cut into 1-inch cubes

1 small yellow squash, cut into 1/2-inch rounds

1 small zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch rounds

Directions

Place turkey cubes and mushroom quarters in a large, self-closing, food-safe plastic bag.

In small bowl, combine green onions, oil, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, rosemary and tarragon. Pour over turkey and mushrooms. Seal bag and refrigerate 2 hours or overnight.

Spray grill rack with nonstick vegetable oil spray. Prepare grill for direct heat cooking.

Drain turkey and mushrooms from marinade and discard marinade.

On 10 or 12-inch skewers, alternating ingredients, arrange drained turkey cubes, mushrooms, bell pepper, yellow squash and zucchini.

Grill over medium flame or coals 10 to 12 minutes or until turkey is no longer pink in center, turning once. Cook thighs to an internal temperature of 170 degrees F.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 320; Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Cholesterol: 130 mg; Protein: 49 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g; Sugars: 3 g

QUESADILLAS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings (2 wedges)

Source: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

Book Title: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/quesadillas.

Ingredients

1 cup shredded Mexican Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or brick cheese

1 green onion, minced

1-3 tablespoons canned chopped green chilies (to taste)

4 8-inch flour tortillas

Chunky salsa, for topping or dip

Directions

In a medium bowl, toss together the cheese, green onion, and chilies; set aside.

Spray a medium skillet with nonstick cooking spray and place over medium heat.

When hot, add 1 tortilla and sprinkle it with one-fourth of the cheese mixture.

When the cheese begins to melt, about 1 minute, fold the tortilla in half.

Continue cooking until lightly browned and crisp on both sides, about 1 minute.

Transfer to a cutting board.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Cut into 4 wedges with a knife or pizza cutter and serve immediately with the salsa.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 134; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 211 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Sugars: 1 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

PEANUT BUTTER BREAKFAST PUDDING

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/166.shtml

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Servings: 8 - Difficulty Level: 2

Ingredients

6 slices raisin bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

1-3/4 cup nonfat skim milk

3 whole eggs + 2 egg whites

1/2 cup fat-reduced peanut butter

3 Tbsp dark brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp grated orange peel OR 1/4 tsp dried orange peel

Directions

Spray a 9-inch baking pan or dish with nonstick vegetable spray.

Add bread cubes to dish and set aside.

Combine remaining ingredients in blender container and process until smooth.

Pour mixture evenly over bread cubes in baking dish, saturating bread cubes.

Cover and refrigerate overnight.

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350F degrees.

Remove cover and bake about 35 minutes, or until lightly browned and puffed.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 217; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 262 mg; Cholesterol: 91 mg; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread/Starch; 1 Lean Meat; 1-1/2 Fats

VANILLA CHAI COFFEE COOLER

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings Serving size: 8 fl. oz.

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/vanilla-chai-coffee-cooler.

Ingredients

4 teaspoons Maxwell House Instant Coffee

3 Tablespoons Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 cup warm water

2 cups non-fat milk

1 1/2 cups ice cubes

Directions

Place coffee, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, vanilla, cinnamon and allspice in pitcher.

Add water; stir until coffee granules are completely dissolved.

Stir in milk and ice cubes; pour evenly into 4 tall glasses, serving immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 50; Sodium: 55 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Sugars: 5 g

SOUTHWEST MEATLOAF

Recipe Yield: Makes 6 to 8 servings

Source: TBC

Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/southwest-meatloaf.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (95% lean)

1 cup soft bread crumbs

3/4 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper

1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed

1/2 cup milk

1 egg

1 large clove garlic, minced

2 teaspoons salt

1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa

Directions

Heat oven to 350F. Combine all ingredients in large bowl except salsa, mixing lightly but thoroughly.

Shape beef mixture into 10 x 4-inch loaf on rack in broiler pan. Bake in 350F oven 1 hour, 15 minutes to 1 hour, 20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160F.

Let stand 10 minutes. Top with salsa; cut into slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 280; Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1.8 g; Sodium: 313 mg; Cholesterol: 120 mg; Protein: 34 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g

Thursday, April 29, 2021

Desserts

Shortly after a diabetic diagnosis (whether our own or a family member's diagnosis), many of us figured that desserts were now a thing of the past.

However, that's not so. True, as with most other things, it depends on how it's made, and then done in moderation.

With that in mind, here are six yummy (and diabetic-friendly) desserts, including Chocolate Cheesecake and Angel Pecan Cupcakes. Enjoy!

CARROT CAKE WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

Recipe Yield: Yield: Makes 12 slices Serving Size: 1 slice

Source: Great Healthy Food - Diabetes

Book Title: Great Healthy Food - Diabetes

View this inline at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/carrot-cake.

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups whole wheat flour

Pinch of salt

2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 cup light brown sugar

3/4 cup raisins, soaked overnight (see note if you leave out raisins) in 1/2 cup unsweetened orange juice

4 medium carrots, peeled and finely grated

1 tablespoon sunflower oil

2 medium egg whites, at room temperature

3-1/2 ounces low-fat cream cheese beaten with 2 teaspoons sifted confectioners’ sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 x 4 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.

Sift the flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon and ginger into a large bowl, tipping in any bran left in the sifter.

Stir in the sugar, raisins with their juice, carrots and oil and mix well.

Beat the egg whites until they stand up in soft peaks, then fold lightly but thoroughly into the carrot mixture, using a large spoon or spatula.

Pour into the pan and bake in the center of the oven for about 1-1/4 hours, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and peel off the lining paper. When completely cool, cut in half horizontally and fill with the sweetened cream cheese.

Notes:

Some people do not like raisins in their carrot cake. If you choose to leave out the raisins, as pictured, it will reduce the amount of carbohydrate by 7g, calories by 27, sugars by 5.4g, fiber by 0.3g and protein by 0.3g per serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 137; Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 154 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 2/3 Fruit, 1/2 Fat

BLUEBERRY CRUMB CAKE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 9 to 12 Servings

Source: 1,001 Delicious Desserts For People with Diabetes

Book Title: 1,001 Delicious Desserts For People with Diabetes

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/blueberry-crumb-cake.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons margarine

1 egg

5-1/2 teaspoons "Equal for Recipes" or 18 packets Equal sweetener

1 cup all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup reduced-fat buttermilk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Blueberry Crumb Topping (recipe follows)

Blueberry Crumb Topping Ingredients

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3-1/2 teaspoons Equal for Recipes or 12 packets Equal sweetener

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon maple extract

4 tablespoons cold margarine, cut into pieces

1 cup fresh, or frozen, blueberries

Directions

Beat margarine, egg, and Equal for Recipes in medium bowl until smooth. Mix in combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon alternately with combined buttermilk and vanilla, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.

Pour batter into greased and floured 8-inch square cake pan; sprinkle Blueberry Crumb Topping evenly over batter.

Bake at 350 degrees F. until toothpick inserted in cakes comes out clean, 35 to 40 minutes. Serve warm.

Blueberry Crumb Topping Directions: Combine flour, Equal for Recipes, and cinnamon in small bowl; sprinkle with maple extract. Cut in margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add blueberries and toss.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 196; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 358 mg; Cholesterol: 24 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 2-1/2 Fat

DIRT DESSERT PUDDING BOWLS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Dessert has never been so much fun to create or enjoy than with this classic dirt dessert—now in an easy-to-hold, edible tortilla bowl! Sweetened and oven-baked Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls make sure you don't miss a single dirt crumb. Layers of chocolate pudding, crushed sandwich cookies and gummy worm candies will delight your kids (and adults!). It's perfect for birthdays, and easy enough for an anytime dessert."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 12

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/dirt-dessert-pudding-bowls.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, melted

1 package (12 count) Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls

1 tablespoon sugar

1 package (4-serving size) chocolate instant pudding and pie filling mix

1 1/2 cups cold milk

1/2 cup frozen (thawed) whipped topping

8 creme-filled chocolate sandwich cookies, finely crushed (about 3/4 cup)

12 gummy worm candies

Preparation

Heat oven to 375°F. Line rimmed cookie sheet with foil. Lightly brush melted butter on all sides of tortilla bowls. Sprinkle sugar on all sides of bowls. Place on cookie sheet. Bake 5 to 7 minutes or until lightly browned on edges and firm to the touch. Bowls will crisp as they cool. Remove to cooling rack to cool completely, about 10 minutes.

When ready to serve, in medium bowl, beat pudding mix and milk 2 minutes, using whisk. Fold in whipped topping. Divide pudding mixture among cooled tortilla bowls, spreading evenly.

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon crushed cookies over top of each; lightly press into pudding layer. Cut gummy worm candies in half, and insert the two ends into top of each tortilla bowl. Serve immediately. Store any remaining bowls in refrigerator.

Expert Tips

For more fun, try sprinkling green candy sprinkles or flower-shaped candy decors on tops of crushed cookies in dirt pudding.

To easily crush cookies in this dirt dessert recipe, place in resealable food-storage plastic bag, and go over with rolling pin.

Gummy worm candies can vary in size. There’s no need to cut them in half if you buy minis!

Nutrition: 1 Mini Tortilla Bowl: Calories: 180 (Calories from Fat: 45); Total Fat: 5g (Saturated Fat 2.5g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 5mg; Sodium 270mg; Total Carbohydrate 29g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 17g); Protein 3g

% Daily Value:Vitamin A 0%; Vitamin C 0%; Calcium 6%; Iron 8%;

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choices: 2

ANGEL PECAN CUPCAKES

Yield: 12 servings

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/746.shtml

Source: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Terrific Diabetic Meals

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/76.shtml

Ingredients

2 eggs, separated

1/4 cup hot tap water

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

3/4 cup fructose

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cake flour

3/4 teaspoon low-salt baking powder

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

In a medium bowl, with an electric mixer, beat egg yolks, hot water, and vanilla together until very thick and pale.

Slowly beat in 1/2 cup fructose and set aside. In a small bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Add salt, and continue beating until whites hold soft peaks.

Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup fructose to egg whites, beating until stiff but not dry. Stir 1/3 of whites into yolks, and sift flour and baking powder over egg mixture. Add pecans and remaining whites, and gently fold until blended.

Place 12 paper liners in a 12-cup muffin pan. Spoon batter evenly into cups, and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 112; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 27 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Glycemic Index: 30, Glycemic Load: 6; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cheesecake.

Ingredients

Crust:

3/4 cup graham crackers crumbs

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons canola or olive oil

Filling:

3 large egg whites

1/3 cup sugar

2 cups nonfat ricotta cheese

1/4 cup cocoa

1/3 cup yogurt cheese **

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

** Place plain, nonfat yogurt into cheese cloth or a coffee filter. Place in strainer over a small bowl or cup. Allow to drain 2 to 24 hours, covered and refrigerated, until cheese reached desired consistency. Discard the whey (liquid). Store in covered container in refrigerator.

Directions

Part 1:

Preheat oven TO 350F. Spray 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Fill a 13x9x2-inch pan halfway with hot water.

Place in oven on shelf below where chocolate cheesecake will be placed. This will prevent the top of cheesecake from cracking.

In small bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Press onto bottom and part-way up sides of pan. Set aside.

Part 2:

In food processor or blender, combine egg whites, sugar, ricotta, cocoa, yogurt cheese and vanilla; process, scraping sides occasionally, for 1 minute until smooth and thick. Pour into crust.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes until filling is just set (center will jiggle slightly). Turn off oven and leave cake in closed oven 5 minutes longer.

Remove from oven and cool about an hour on wire rack. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 176; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 140 m; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch; 1/2 skim milk

NO-BAKE ORANGE CREAM CHEESECAKE

Light fluffy textured cheesecake filled with chopped oranges, reduced-fat cream cheese and ricotta cheese.

Yield: 16 servings

See the recipe here: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/946.shtml

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

3 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted

3 tablespoons Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

Cheesecake Ingredients:

1 cup orange juice

1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin

2 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

3/4 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated**

1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)

2 cups light whipped topping, thawed, if frozen

1 can (11 ounces) Mandarin oranges, drained, coarsely chopped

Oranges sections (optional)

Whipped topping (optional)

* May substitute 4-1/2 packets Equal sweetener

** May substitute 18 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Crust, combine graham cracker crumbs, butter and 3 tablespoons Equal.

Press mixture onto bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake in preheated 350F oven 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack while preparing cheesecake.

For Cheesecake, pour orange juice into small saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over orange juice and let soften 1 minute.

Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until gelatin dissolves.

Beat cream cheese and ricotta cheese in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth. Stir in 3/4 cup Equal and orange extract. Add gelatin mixture to cheese mixture; blend until smooth.

Refrigerate cheese mixture, or place in freezer, 20 to 30 minutes or until mixture is slightly thickened.

Fold in whipped topping and chopped oranges. Spoon over baked crust.

Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.

To serve, gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Remove side of pan. Garnish top of cheesecake with orange sections and whipped topping, if desired. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 152; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 158 mg; Cholesterol: 31 mg; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 1/2 milk, 1 starch, 2 fat

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Chicken

I'm frequently amazed at how many chicken recipes pop up on diabetic-friendly sites. Maybe it's because it's lean and versatile. Whatever the reason, here are six chicken recipes to help you through the day, including Chicken Ole and Chicken with Mushrooms and Tarragon. Enjoy!

LEMON-ROSEMARY CHICKEN BREASTS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

Book Title: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/lemon-rosemary-chicken-breasts.

Ingredients

2 lemons

1 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

4 small skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (1 pound)

Directions

Prepare grill.

From 1 lemon, grate 2 teaspoons peel.

From 1/2 lemon, cut thin slices; reserve for garnish.

Squeeze juice from remaining 3 lemon halves into medium bowl.

Stir in lemon peel, rosemary, garlic, oil, salt and pepper.

Add chicken breast halves to bowl, turning to coat with lemon-juice mixture.

Arrange chicken on grill over medium heat and grill, brushing with remaining lemon-juice mixture in bowl, 5 minutes.

Turn chicken and grill until chicken loses its pink color throughout, about 5 minutes longer. Garnish with lemon slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 153; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 364 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Protein: 26 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat

CHICKEN BREASTS WITH MUSHROOMS AND TARRAGON

Recipe Yield: Yield: 6 servings

Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

Book Title: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-breasts-with-mushrooms-and-tarragon.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound assorted mushrooms (white and cremini, trimmed and sliced; shiitake, stems removed and caps sliced)

1 large shallot, finely chopped

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon or 1 teaspoon dried tarragon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

6 small skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (1-1/2 pounds)

1 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup dry white wine

Directions

In 12-inch skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat.

Add mushrooms and shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden brown and any liquid has been evaporated, 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer mushroom mixture to bowl.

On waxed paper, combine flour, 1 tablespoon chopped tarragon, salt and pepper; use flour mixture to coat chicken, shaking off excess.

In same skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium-heat until very hot. Add chicken and cook until chicken is golden brown and loses its pink color throughout, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to warm platter.

Add broth, wine, remaining 1 tablespoon chopped tarragon, and mushroom mixture to skillet; cook 1 minute, stirring until browned bits are loosened from bottom of skillet. Pour sauce over chicken.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 212; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 437 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Protein: 29 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Lean Meat, 1/2 Bread/Starch

THAI CHICKEN WITH BASIL

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

Book Title: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/thai-chicken-with-basil.

Ingredients

1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

3 tablespoons Asian fish sauce

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon brown sugar

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

1 large onion (12 ounces), cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

2 red or green chiles (serrano or jalapeno), seeded and cut into matchstick strips

2 teaspoons minced, peeled fresh ginger

2 garlic cloves, crushed with garlic press

1-1/2 cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves

Directions

With knife held in slanting position, almost parallel to cutting surface, cut each chicken breast half crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. In medium bowl, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar; add chicken slices, tossing to coat. Let marinate 5 minutes.

In nonstick 12-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until very hot. Add chicken with marinade and cook, stirring frequently (stir-frying), until chicken loses its pink color throughout, 3 to 4 minutes. With slotted spoon, transfer chicken to bowl.

Add onion to marinade remaining in skillet and cook, stir-frying, until tender-crisp, about 4 minutes. Stir in chiles, ginger, and garlic; cook 1 minute longer.

Return chicken to skillet; heat thorough. Stir in basil leaves just before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 238; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 784 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Protein: 31 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Lean Meat, 1 Bread/Starch

ZESTY RANCH CHICKEN TACOS

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Chicken tacos are jazzed up with a creamy, Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce coleslaw topping. Topped with fresh avocado and cilantro, these tacos are hard to beat!"

Prep Time: 20 Minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 5 servings

You can view this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/zesty-ranch-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

2 cups coleslaw mix

1/3 cup chopped red onion

1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 package (16 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips

1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ Chicken Taco Seasoning Mix

1/4 cup water

1 package (10 count) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ Taco Shells, heated as directed on package

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Cheddar Cheese

1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled, diced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation

In medium bowl, mix Coleslaw ingredients; cover and refrigerate.

In 10-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips; cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until no longer pink in center. Add taco seasoning mix and water; reduce heat, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Divide chicken among warm taco shells. Top evenly with cheese and coleslaw; top with avocado and cilantro.

Expert Tips

Garnish tacos with sliced jalapeƱos for a bit of spicy heat.

If desired, serve drizzled with additional sauce.

To easily assemble tacos, line heated shells in baking pan, and use tongs to add chicken and coleslaw to the shells. Continue with the remaining toppings, and they’ll all be ready to serve.

Nutrition: 5 servings (2 tacos each); 1 Serving: Calories: 440 (Calories from Fat: 220); Total Fat: 24g (Saturated Fat: 8g, Trans Fat: 0g); Cholesterol: 75 mg; Sodium: 770 mg; Total Carbohydrate: 28 g (Dietary Fiber: 5 g, Sugars: 2 g); Protein: 28 g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 10%; Vitamin C 15%; Calcium 20%; Iron 10%

Exchanges: 1 1/2 Starch, 1/2 Vegetable, 2 Very Lean Meat, 1 High-Fat Meat, 3 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 2

CHICKEN OLE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Book Title: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

View this at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-ole.

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, sliced and separated into rings

14-1/2 ounce can Mexican-style stewed tomatoes

1 cup frozen (thawed) whole kernel corn

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or sliced scallions

Directions

Sprinkle the chicken with the cumin and pepper and toss to mix well. Set aside.

Coat a large nonstick skillet with the olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for several mixture, until nicely browned. Add the onions, reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for a couple of minutes, until the onion softens.

Add the undrained tomatoes to the skillet and let the mixture come to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes. Add the corn and cook covered for 5 minutes more.

Serve hot, topping each serving with a sprinkling of the cilantro or scallions. Serve over brown rice or whole-wheat couscous if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 231; Fat: 5.2 g; Saturated Fat: 0.9 g; Fiber: 3.2 g; Sodium: 403 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Protein: 29 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Starch, 1-1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

GREEK CHICKEN

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4-6 servings

Source: Fix-It and Forget-It Diabetic Cookbook

Book Title: Fix-It and Forget-It Diabetic Cookbook

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/greek-chicken.

Ingredients

4 potatoes, unpeeled, quartered

2 pounds chicken pieces, trimmed of skin and fat

2 large onions, quartered

1 whole bulb garlic, minced

3 teaspoons dried oregano

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Place potatoes in bottom of slow cooker.

Add chicken, onions, and garlic. Sprinkle with seasonings.

Top with oil. Cover. Cook on HIGH 5-6 hours, or on LOW 9-10 hours.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 278; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 358 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Protein: 27 g; Carbohydrates: 29 g; Sugars: 9 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 2 Vegetable, 2 Lean Meat

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday. After all, who doesn't love tacos?

Okay, that's a trick question; I'm sure most of us can point to one or two people who aren't wild about tacos. But for those of us who love them, here are six taco recipes to help you through the day, including Zesty Ranch Chicken Tacos and Southwest Turkey Tacos. Enjoy!

EASY OVEN-BAKED CHICKEN TACOS

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Looking for a new taco night favorite? These oven-baked chicken tacos are sure to be a win with the whole family. By starting with pre-cooked deli rotisserie chicken, they’re a total time-saver, so you can get back to enjoying time with the fam. Try a Corona™ Light alongside these chicken tacos—it’s a classically delicious way to go."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Makes 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-oven-baked-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

1 package (4.7 oz) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ taco shells (10 shells)

2 1/2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken

1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ chicken taco seasoning mix

1/4 cup water

1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles

1 can (16 oz) Old El Paso™ refried beans

1 1/4 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (5 oz)

1 cup guacamole

1 cup halved grape tomatoes

1/4 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Heat oven to 400°F. Spray bottom of 13x9-inch (3-quart) baking dish with cooking spray. Place taco shells standing up and together in dish; set aside.

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook chicken, taco seasoning mix, water and chiles over medium heat 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is heated through. Remove from heat.

To assemble, spread about 2 tablespoons refried beans in bottom of each shell. Top each with heaping 1/4 cup chicken mixture and 2 tablespoons shredded cheese. Bake 5 to 7 minutes or until cheese is melted. Top with guacamole, tomatoes and green onions.

Expert Tips

Try other varieties of Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix, such as original or hot & spicy for something different.

Try Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese for a flavor twist!

Nutrition: 1 Taco: Calories 260 (Calories from Fat 120); Total Fat 13g (Saturated Fat 5g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 45mg; Sodium 810mg; Total Carbohydrate 19g (Dietary Fiber 4g, Sugars 2g); Protein 16g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 8%; Vitamin C 8%; Calcium 15%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 1/2 Starch, 1 Lean Meat, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 1 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 1

SOUTHWEST TURKEY TACOS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Lean ground turkey, veggies and savory salsa meld in the slow cooker to make this deliciously easy taco filling."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes; Makes 12 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/southwest-turkey-tacos.

Ingredients

1 package (20 oz) extra-lean ground turkey

1/2 cup chopped onion (1 medium)

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 cups Old El Paso™ Thick ‘n Chunky salsa

1 can (15 oz) Progresso™ black beans, drained

1 can (11 oz) whole kernel corn with red and green peppers, drained, rinsed

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 boxes (4.6 oz each) Old El Paso™ taco shells (24 shells total)

3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro

3 cups chopped lettuce

3 medium tomatoes, chopped (1 1/2 cups)

Preparation

In 12-inch skillet, place turkey and onion; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until turkey is no longer pink.

Spray 3- to 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In cooker, mix turkey mixture, salsa, beans, corn and chili powder.

Cover; cook on Low heat setting 6 to 7 hours.

To serve, heat taco shells in oven as directed on boxes. Stir cilantro into turkey mixture. Spoon about 1/4 cup mixture into each warm taco shell; top with lettuce and tomatoes.

Expert Tips

This taco mixture is also delicious served over rice and topped with chopped fresh cilantro.

Top with fat-free sour cream, if desired.

Exchanges:1 1/2 Starch; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Other Carbohydrate; 0 Skim Milk; 0 Low-Fat Milk; 0 Milk; 0 Vegetable; 0 Very Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Lean Meat; 0 High-Fat Meat; 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choices:2 *Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

BUFFALO SOFT TACOS

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/buffalo-soft-tacos

Recipe Yield: 4 Servings. Serving size: 1 taco

Source: Cooking Up Fun For Kids With Diabetes

Book Title: Cooking Up Fun For Kids With Diabetes

Ingredients

1/3 cup mild cayenne pepper sauce (such as Frank's™ Red Hot Sauce, not Tabasco sauce)

1 teaspoon corn oil

2 cups (about 10 ounces) diced cooked chicken breast

4 (8 inch) tortillas, warmed if desired

1/2 cup (2 ounces) finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 cup finely chopped lettuce

2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons light ranch dressing

Directions

Put cayenne pepper sauce and oil in a large zip-top bag. Add cooked chicken, seal bag, and shake to coat chicken well. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow chicken to marinate.

Pour chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat 2 minutes or until hot (or pour chicken and marinade in a pan and warm on the stove over medium heat).

Lay 4 flour tortillas on the counter. Spoon 1/4 of chicken in the center of each one. Drizzle with the warm marinade if you want to. Top each with 1/4 of the cheese and 1/4 of the lettuce. Drizzle each with 1/4 of the dressing.

Fold each taco in half, or roll it up. Slice in half if you want to.

Notes:

Cooking Up Fun For Kids With Diabetes authors Patti B. Geil, MS,RD,FADA,CDE, and Tami Ross, RD, LD, CDE, have planted their collective fingers directly on the food tastes that kids really love.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 351; Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Fiber: 5 g; Sodium: 1220 mg; Cholesterol: 72 mg; Protein: 30 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 4 Meat, lean

EASY GREEN CHILE CHICKEN TACOS

This taco recipe is from Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, who not only posts recipes on VeryWell Fit, but has her own food site, called Lively Table.

For this recipe, Kaleigh wrote, “Instead of making the same old tacos this week, why not change things up with delicious and healthy green chile chicken tacos?

“This chicken taco recipe is super easy to make. Just boil the chicken in a bit of broth, shred, and add diced green chiles. It's a simple nutritious meal that the whole family will love.

“Corn tortillas are naturally whole grain, so they make a great choice for these tacos. Top with a bit of shredded red cabbage, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro to make a weeknight meal.”

Total Time: 35 minutes; Prep Time: 5 minutes; CookTime: 30 minutes; Servings: 4 (2 tacos each)

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 (8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast

2 cloves garlic

1 fresh jalapeno

1 cup low sodium chicken broth

Water

1 can (7-ounce) diced green chiles

8 warm corn tortillas

1 small avocado, sliced

1 cup red cabbage, shredded

Fresh cilantro, to taste

Preparation

In a medium saucepan, add chicken, garlic, jalapeno, and broth. Add water to cover the chicken. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat until chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes. Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Discard garlic and jalapeno, reserving cooking liquid.

In a skillet, add green chiles and shredded chicken. Cook over low heat, stirring until warmed through and sauce is thickened. Add reserved cooking liquid as needed to keep the chicken moist.

Serve with warmed corn tortillas, avocado, cabbage, and cilantro.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

Use any type of tortilla that you like. Look for whole grain options, if possible.

You can also leave out the tortillas and serve the chicken on top of lettuce to make a taco salad or with brown rice and beans to make taco bowls.

Canned green chiles are usually found in the Mexican food aisle at the grocery store. They come in two varieties, spicy and mild. Choose the kind that best suits your taste.

Cooking and Serving Tips

Serve tacos with a side of low-sodium canned black beans for a quick and easy meal.

Add any toppings you like, such as your favorite salsa, tomatoes, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt.

BLT RANCH QUESADILLAS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Now you can enjoy your favorite BLT sandwich as a quesadilla! The Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce makes this one extra delicious!"

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/blt-ranch-quesadillas.

Ingredients

4 Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas for burritos, 8 inch (from 11-oz package)

1 1/3 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese

1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon

3/4 cup chopped baby spinach

1/3 cup chopped tomato

1/4 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce

Preparation

On one half of each tortilla, spread 1/3 cup cheese, 2 tablespoons bacon and 2 tablespoons spinach; fold tortilla over filling.

Heat 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Place 2 quesadillas in skillet at a time. Cook 2 to 4 minutes, turning once, until tortilla is golden brown and crisp and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining quesadillas.

Top quesadillas with remaining spinach and tomato; drizzle with sauce. To serve, cut into wedges.

Expert Tips

Use fresh pico de gallo in place of tomato to add a bit of additional flavor and heat.

After cooking each quesadilla, cover it to keep it warm while you cook the remaining quesadillas. When cooking second batch of quesadillas, watch tortillas carefully since skillet will already be hot.

Cheddar and Mexican 4 cheese are great substitutes for the Monterey Jack.

Serve the sauce alongside the quesadillas for dipping rather than drizzling on top, if desired.

Nutrition: 4 servings (1 quesadilla each): 1 Serving Calories 340 (Calories from Fat 180); Total Fat 20g (Saturated Fat 10g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 50mg; Sodium 740mg; Total Carbohydrate 27g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 2g); Protein 14g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 15%; Vitamin C 4%; Calcium 30%; Iron 10%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Vegetable, 1 High-Fat Meat, 2 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 2

ZESTY RANCH CHICKEN TACOS

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Chicken tacos are jazzed up with a creamy, Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce coleslaw topping. Topped with fresh avocado and cilantro, these tacos are hard to beat!"

Prep Time: 20 Minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 5 servings

You can view this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/zesty-ranch-chicken-tacos.

Ingredients

2 cups coleslaw mix

1/3 cup chopped red onion

1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 package (16 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips

1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ Chicken Taco Seasoning Mix

1/4 cup water

1 package (10 count) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ Taco Shells, heated as directed on package

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Cheddar Cheese

1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled, diced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation

In medium bowl, mix Coleslaw ingredients; cover and refrigerate.

In 10-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips; cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until no longer pink in center. Add taco seasoning mix and water; reduce heat, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Divide chicken among warm taco shells. Top evenly with cheese and coleslaw; top with avocado and cilantro.

Expert Tips

Garnish tacos with sliced jalapeƱos for a bit of spicy heat.

If desired, serve drizzled with additional sauce.

To easily assemble tacos, line heated shells in baking pan, and use tongs to add chicken and coleslaw to the shells. Continue with the remaining toppings, and they’ll all be ready to serve.

Nutrition: 5 servings (2 tacos each); 1 Serving: Calories: 440 (Calories from Fat: 220); Total Fat: 24g (Saturated Fat: 8g, Trans Fat: 0g); Cholesterol: 75 mg; Sodium: 770 mg; Total Carbohydrate: 28 g (Dietary Fiber: 5 g, Sugars: 2 g); Protein: 28 g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 10%; Vitamin C 15%; Calcium 20%; Iron 10%

Exchanges: 1 1/2 Starch, 1/2 Vegetable, 2 Very Lean Meat, 1 High-Fat Meat, 3 Fat

Carbohydrate Choice: 2

Monday, April 26, 2021

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Today's diabetic and vegetarian recipes include Summer Ratatouille and Veggie Patch Soup. Enjoy!

STRAWBERRY-PEACH COOLER

This comes from Diabetic Gourmet.

Recipe Yield: Yield: 2 servings Serving size: 1 cup

Source: The Diabetes Snack, Munch, Nibble, Nosh Book

Book Title: The Diabetes Snack, Munch, Nibble, Nosh Book

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup dry-pack unsweetened frozen strawberries

2/3 cup dry-pack unsweetened frozen peaches

3/4 cup orange juice

Directions

In a 2-cup measure or similar microwave-safe bowl, combine the strawberries and peaches.

Cover with wax paper, and microwave on high power 45 seconds to 1 minute to thaw the fruit slightly. The fruit should be icy but not hard.

Working with a small knife in the measuring cup, cut each peach slice in half.

Transfer the peaches and strawberries to a blender container.

Add the orange juice. Blend on low power to combine. Then increase power to high and continue to blend until the peaches are completely pureed, at least 1-1/2 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 2 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Sugars: 23 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Fruit

SIMPLE VEGGIE SKEWERS

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Recipe Yield: Yield: 12 appetizers

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/simple-veggie-skewers

Ingredients

1 medium-small zucchini squash

12 cubes (3/4-inches each) reduced-fat white cheddar, provolone, or Swiss cheese (about 3 ounces)

12 small whole fresh mushrooms

12 pitted jumbo black olives

12 cherry or grape tomatoes

12 wooden skewers (6-inches each)

1/2 cup light ranch salad dressing (optional)

Directions

Trim the ends off the zucchini, quarter it lengthwise, and cut into 3/4-inch pieces.

Thread 1 of the zucchini pieces, 1 cube of cheese, 1 mushroom, 1 olive, 1 tomato, and another zucchini piece onto each skewer.

Serve immediately (accompanied by the dressing if desired) or cover and chill for several hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Fat: 2.8 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 138 mg; Cholesterol: 7 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Medium-Fat Meat

VEGGIE PATCH SOUP

Recipe Yield: Yield: 10 servings

Source: Mr. Food Every Day's a Holiday Diabetic Cookbook

Book Title: Mr. Food Every Day's a Holiday Diabetic Cookbook

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/veggie-patch-soup

Ingredients

6 cups water

2 medium-sized white potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

4 large tomatoes, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks

4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

3 medium-sized zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks

2 medium-sized green bell peppers, coarsely chopped

2 medium-sized onions, coarsely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1-1/2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

In a soup pot, combine all the ingredients; mix well and bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 84; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 383 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Sugars: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 2 Vegetable

SUMMER RATATOUILLE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 (1 cup) servings

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

Book Title: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/summer-ratatouille

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil, divided

3 cups combination sliced zucchini and yellow squash

1 cup sliced onion

1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1/3 cup minced fresh mint leaves

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 (4.75 oz) can prepared eggplant caponata

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Directions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Add the zucchini and yellow squash and onion and saute for 5-7 minutes until tender, stirring often.

Remove the zucchini-yellow squash saute to a salad bowl. Add remaining ingredients and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105;Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 299 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Sugars: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 16 brownies

Source: Equal

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/double-chocolate-brownies

Ingredients

6 tablespoons stick butter, softened

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup Equal Spoonful*

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips

6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional: Chopped Walnuts

* May substitute 24 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Beat butter, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla until blended. Stir in combined flour, Equal, chocolate chips, cocoa, baking powder, nuts (optional) and salt until blended.

Spread batter in sprayed 8-inch square baking pan. Bake in a preheated 350F oven 18 to 20 minutes or until top springs back when gently touched. Cool completely on wire rack. Cut into squares.

Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Notes:

Applesauce replaces part of the fat, Equal all of the sugar, plus you get double the chocolate flavor with both cocoa and chocolate chips – so who can resist these delicious brownies?

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 77 mg; Cholesterol: 38 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat

BUTTERNUT SQUASH ENCHILADAS WITH SALSA VERDE

Recipe Yield: Yield: Makes 8 servings.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/butternut-squash-enchiladas-with-salsa-verde

Ingredients

1 package (16 oz.) diced peeled butternut squash, or 1 1/4 lb. squash, seeded, peeled and diced

Canola oil spray

1 can (15.5 oz.) pinto beans, rinsed and drained

3/4 cup (3 oz.) crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese, divided

8 large (about 7-inch) corn tortillas

1 jar (16 oz.) salsa verde

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Place squash in medium saucepan. Add 1 cup water. Cover pot tightly, and place over medium-high heat. Cook until squash is tender but not mushy, 12-15 minutes, depending on size of cubes. Drain squash, and set aside.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Select a baking dish just large enough to hold the eight tortillas, folded over and slightly overlapping, so that they fit snuggly in the dish. (You may want to "test" and see if the baking dish is the proper size by arranging unfilled, folded tortillas in it, as they would be once filled and ready to bake.) using the canola oil spray, lightly coat the interior of the baking dish and set aside.

Place beans in mixing bowl. Using fork, partially mash beans. Add squash and blend, leaving mixture coarsely mashed, with some beans still whole. Mix in 1/2 cup of the cheese. Season filling to taste with salt and pepper.

Coat a tortilla on both sides with cooking spray. Lay it on a plate. Spoon 3/4 cup of filling on one half of the tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling. Set it at one end of the baking dish. Repeat, placing filled tortillas so they overlap, filling baking dish tightly. Pour pureed sauce over assembled enchiladas. Sprinkle remaining cheese over sauce. Cover pan with foil.

Bake enchiladas about 30 minutes, until they are heated through and tortillas are soft. Uncover and serve garnished with cilantro, accompanied by cooked brown rice, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 180; Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 479 mg; Protein: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 33 g

Friday, April 23, 2021

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday, time to Celebrate the upcoming weekend (thanks to Kool and the Gang). (Try getting that tune out of your mind today!)

Of course, we do need to eat during the weekend, so here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Deep Dark and Stout Chili and Chicken and Vegetable Curry. Enjoy!

CHICKEN GREEN CHILE FOOTBALL EMPANADAS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Are you ready for some football empanadas? These chile- and cheese-filled pies are a cinch to make and look great on your gameday appetizer table."

Prep Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes; Makes 12 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/chicken-green-chile-football-empanadas.

Ingredients

3/4 cup chopped cooked chicken

1/2 cup sliced green onions

1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (2 oz)

1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles

2 oz cream cheese (from 8-oz package), softened

4 teaspoons Old El Paso™ chicken taco seasoning mix (from 0.85-oz package)

1 egg, beaten

1 teaspoon water

1 box Pillsbury™ refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box

Guacamole, if desired

Salsa, if desired

Preparation

Heat oven to 375°F. Line large rimmed pan with cooking parchment paper. In medium bowl, mix chicken, green onions, cheese, chiles, cream cheese and taco seasoning mix. In small bowl, mix egg and water.

Unroll one of the pie crusts. Using 4 1/2-inch football cookie cutter, cut out 12 footballs from crust, rerolling dough scraps together as necessary. Repeat with second pie crust, to total 24 footballs.

Place about 2 tablespoons filling in center of football; spread slightly to create even layer on dough with 1/4-inch border around all sides. Brush egg wash around outer edge of football, then gently stretch second dough football and place over top; using fork, crimp edges to seal together. Repeat with remaining pieces of dough. Place on pan.

Using paring knife, score laces into top of each empanada.

Brush tops with egg wash. Bake 27 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with guacamole and salsa.

Expert Tips

We used rotisserie chicken for this recipe, but feel free to use leftover chicken breasts or thighs.

Don’t have a football-shaped cutter? Use a pliable 3 1/2-inch round cutter, and bend into the shape of a football.

Exchanges: 1 Starch; 0 Fruit; 0 Other Carbohydrate; 0 Skim Milk; 0 Low-Fat Milk; 0 Milk; 0 Vegetable; 0 Very Lean Meat; 0 Lean Meat; 0 High-Fat Meat; 2 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choices: 1

CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE CURRY

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 Servings

Source: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

Book Title: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-and-vegetable-curry.

Ingredients

Vegetable Cooking Spray

12-16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed

1/2 cup chopped onion

2 cloves garlic

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

2 medium potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

2 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch slices

1-1/2 cups reduced sodium fat-free chicken broth

3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground coriander

1 tablespoon flour

2 tablespoon cold water

1 large tomato, chopped

2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

Salt, cayenne, and black pepper, to taste

Ingredients

Spray large saucepan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute chicken, onion, and garlic until chicken is browned, 5 to 6 minutes. Add cauliflower, potatoes, carrots, broth, and herbs to saucepan; heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until chicken and vegetables are tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

Heat mixture to boiling. Mix flour and water; stir into boiling mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir in tomato, parsley, and lemon juice; simmer 2 to 3 minutes longer. Season to taste with salt, cayenne, and black pepper.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 250; Fat: 3.1 g; Sodium: 203 mg; Cholesterol: 51.7 mg; Protein: 28.4 g; Carbohydrates: 29 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Bread, 2 Meat

SPINACH SAUTE WITH MUSHROOMS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings (1/2 cup)

Source: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

Book Title: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spinach-saute-with-mushrooms.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

3 bunches spinach (about 2 pounds), stemmed and washed

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the mushrooms and garlic and saute for 3 minutes.

Add the spinach, cover, and steam for 2 minutes. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 99; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 132 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1-1/2 Fat

SWEET POTATO - RAISIN COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 24 cookies; Serving Size: 2 cookies

Source: Magic Menus for People with Diabetes

Book Title: Magic Menus for People with Diabetes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/sweet-potato-raisin-cookies..

Ingredients

1 cup raisins

1/4 cup butter or margarine

1 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups whole-wheat flour

1/4 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

1/2 cup unprocessed bran flakes.

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Soak raisins in hot water to cover for 5 minutes, then drain.

Cream margarine, then add sweet potatoes, egg, and vanilla; beat until creamy.

Mix flour, allspice, salt, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon. Add to creamed mixture and mix well.

Add raisins, nuts, and bran. Drop onto cookie sheet that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for 12 minutes or until done.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 186; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 256 mg; Cholesterol: 28 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 31 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Carbohydrate, 1 Fat

CORN BREAD

I found this buried in a group of recipes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. While it looks like it's from Diabetic Gourmet, I couldn't locate a link for it on the site.

Yield: 12 servings

Source: "The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes"

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup yellow cornmeal

1 cup sifted all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup fat-free milk

2 large eggs, slightly beaten, or 1/2 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons canola or corn oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a 9-inch square pan with nonstick pan spray.

Combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Combine the milk, eggs, and oil in a small bowl, add to the dry ingredients, and blend well.

Pour into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Remove from the oven and turn out of the pan onto a rack. Cool slightly before cutting. Cut into 12 equal portions. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (2-1/4 inch square): Calories: 130, Fat: 5 g, Cholesterol: 36 mg, Sodium: 207 mg, Carbohydrate: 18 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 1 g, Protein: 4 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

DEEP, DARK AND STOUT CHILI

This recipe begins, “Like most chili recipes, the flavors are more blended if the chili is served the next day. This dish freezes well, too.”

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings. Serving size: 1-1/3 cups chili.

Source: CanolaInfo

Recipe and image appear courtesy of CanolaInfo.org.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/deep-dark-and-stout-chili

Ingredients

2 Tbsp canola oil

1-1/2 lb extra lean ground beef (or 1 lb extra lean ground beef and 15-oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained)

2 cups diced green bell peppers

1 cup diced red onion

3 cans (14.5 oz each) no-salt-added stewed tomatoes

1 bottle (12 oz) dark stout beer

3 Tbsp chili powder

1-1/2 Tbsp ground cumin

1-1/2 Tbsp smoked paprika (optional)

1 Tbsp sodium-free beef bouillon granules

1 tsp salt

Toppings:

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

1/2 cup finely chopped red onion

1 medium lime, cut into 6 wedges

Directions

Heat 1 Tbsp canola oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in two batches, brown beef, about 3-4 minutes per batch, stirring frequently.

Meanwhile, in a saute pan heat remaining 1 Tbsp canola oil and cook bell peppers and onions 4 minutes or until onions are soft, stirring frequently. Stir into cooked beef. Add stewed tomatoes, beer, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and bouillon. Bring just to a boil over medium-high heat, reduce heat, cover and simmer 45 minutes. Stir in salt.

Serve chili with choice of toppings placed in three small bowls.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 240; Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Fiber: 5 g; Sodium: 480 mg; Cholesterol: 45 mg; Protein: 20 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

Thursday, April 22, 2021

Thursday Recipes

We're almost to the end of the week. Here are six yummy diabetic recipes to help you through the day, including Chicken Gyros and Old-Fashioned Baked Custard. Enjoy!

BUFFALO SOFT TACOS

Recipe Yield: 4 Servings. Serving size: 1 taco

Source: Cooking Up Fun For Kids With Diabetes

Book Title: Cooking Up Fun For Kids With Diabetes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/buffalo-soft-tacos.

Ingredients

1/3 cup mild cayenne pepper sauce (such as Frank's Red Hot Sauce, not Tabasco sauce)

1 teaspoon corn oil

2 cups (about 10 ounces) diced cooked chicken breast

4 (8 inch) tortillas, warmed if desired

1/2 cup (2 ounces) finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese1 cup finely chopped lettuce

2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons light ranch dressing

Directions

Put cayenne pepper sauce and oil in a large zip-top bag. Add cooked chicken, seal bag, and shake to coat chicken well. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow chicken to marinate.

Pour chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat 2 minutes or until hot (or pour chicken and marinade in a pan and warm on the stove over medium heat).

Lay 4 flour tortillas on the counter. Spoon 1/4 of chicken in the center of each one. Drizzle with the warm marinade if you want to. Top each with 1/4 of the cheese and 1/4 of the lettuce. Drizzle each with 1/4 of the dressing.

Fold each taco in half, or roll it up. Slice in half if you want to.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 351; Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Fiber: 5 g; Sodium: 1220 mg; Cholesterol: 72 mg; Protein: 30 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 4 Meat, lean

TERIYAKI SESAME VEGETABLES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 Servings

Source: The Best Diabetes Cookbook

Book Title: The Best Diabetes Cookbook

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/teriyaki-sesame-vegetables.

Ingredients

1-1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil

1 teaspoon crushed garlic

Half of a large sweet red or yellow pepper, thinly sliced

Half of a large sweet green pepper, thinly sliced

1-1/2 cups snow peas

1 large carrot, sliced thinly

1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds

Sauce Ingredients:

1 teaspoon crushed garlic

1 tablespoon soya sauce

1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar or white wine vinegar

1/2 teaspoon minced gingerroot

1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon water

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1-1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil

Directions

Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine garlic, soya sauce, vinegar, ginger, sesame oil, water, sugar and vegetable oil; cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until thickened and syrupy.

In large non-stick skillet, heat oil; saute garlic, red and green peppers, snow peas and carrot, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.

Add sauce; saute for 2 minutes or just until vegetables are tender-crisp. Place in serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 128; Fat: 8 g; Fiber: 2 g; Sodium: 256 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Vegetables, 1-1/2 Fat

OLD-FASHIONED BAKED CUSTARD

Recipe Yield: Makes: 3 cups (6 servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

View this inline at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/old-fashioned-baked-custard.

Ingredients

3 large eggs, slightly beaten, or 3/4 cup egg substitute

2 tablespoons sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 cups fat-free milk

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Pinch of ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Slowly stir in the milk and vanilla.

Pour 1/2 cup of custard into each of six 5-ounce custard cups. Sprinkle with cinnamon.

Set the filled custard cups in a shallow pan. Pour about 1 inch of hot water in the pan around the custard cups.

Bake on the center rack of the oven for 35 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the custard comes out clean. Serve hot, warm, or chilled.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 82; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 171 mg; Cholesterol: 108 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Sugars: 8 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1/2 Medium-Fat Meat

LEMON-ROSEMARY CHICKEN BREASTS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

Book Title: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/lemon-rosemary-chicken-breasts.

Ingredients

2 lemons

1 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

4 small skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (1 pound)

Directions

Prepare grill.

From 1 lemon, grate 2 teaspoons peel.

From 1/2 lemon, cut thin slices; reserve for garnish.

Squeeze juice from remaining 3 lemon halves into medium bowl.

Stir in lemon peel, rosemary, garlic, oil, salt and pepper.

Add chicken breast halves to bowl, turning to coat with lemon-juice mixture.

Arrange chicken on grill over medium heat and grill, brushing with remaining lemon-juice mixture in bowl, 5 minutes.

Turn chicken and grill until chicken loses its pink color throughout, about 5 minutes longer. Garnish with lemon slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 153; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 364 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Protein: 26 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat

CHICKEN OLE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Book Title: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

View this at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-ole.

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, sliced and separated into rings

14-1/2 ounce can Mexican-style stewed tomatoes

1 cup frozen (thawed) whole kernel corn

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or sliced scallions

Directions

Sprinkle the chicken with the cumin and pepper and toss to mix well. Set aside.

Coat a large nonstick skillet with the olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for several mixture, until nicely browned. Add the onions, reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for a couple of minutes, until the onion softens.

Add the undrained tomatoes to the skillet and let the mixture come to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes. Add the corn and cook covered for 5 minutes more.

Serve hot, topping each serving with a sprinkling of the cilantro or scallions. Serve over brown rice or whole-wheat couscous if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 231; Fat: 5.2 g; Saturated Fat: 0.9 g; Fiber: 3.2 g; Sodium: 403 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Protein: 29 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Starch, 1-1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

CHICKEN GYROS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Book Title: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-gyros.

Ingredients

Sauce:

1 cup plain low-fat yogurt or light sour cream

3/4 cup peeled, seeded, finely chopped cucumber

1/2 teaspoon dried dill

Rest of ingredients:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips

1 teaspoon lemon pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

4 whole-wheat or oat-bran pita pockets (6-inch rounds), cut in half

8 leaves romaine lettuce

2 medium-small plum tomatoes, thinly sliced

4 slices red onion, separated into rings

Directions

Combine all of the sauce ingredients and stir to mix well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Combine the chicken, lemon pepper, oregano, and garlic powder in a medium bowl and toss to mix well. Coat a large nonstick skillet with olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry for several minutes, until nicely browned and no longer pink inside. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

To heat the pita pockets, place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high power for about 45 seconds. If heating only one pita at a time, microwave for only 15 seconds.

To assemble the sandwiches, line each pita half with a lettuce leaf, add some of the chicken, tomatoes, onion slices, and sauce. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 346; Fat: 6.4 g; Fiber: 5.4 g; Sodium: 544 mg; Cholesterol: 69 mg; Protein: 36 g; Carbohydrates: 40 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Starch, 3 Very Lean Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1/4 Low-Fat Milk, 1 Fat

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Wednesday Recipes

Is it possible to eat non-boring diabetic food? But of course! Here are today's offerings to prove that point, including Thai Chicken with Basil and Carrot and Raisin Salad. Enjoy!

CHICKEN CORDON BLEU

Thi begins, “This recipe was once the ultimate in gourmet dining. The ham-and-cheese stuffed chicken breasts are still delicious in their low-fat form!”

Serves: 6

Source: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/318.shtml

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)

4 ounces sliced fat-free Swiss cheese

3 ounces lean smoked ham

Flour

2 egg whites, beaten

1/3 cup unseasoned dry bread crumbs

Vegetable cooking spray

Directions

Pound chicken breasts with flat side of meat mallet until very thin and even in thickness. Layer cheese and ham on chicken breasts, cutting to fit. Roll up chicken and secure with toothpicks.

Coat chicken rolls lightly with flour; dip in egg whites and coat in bread crumbs. Spray rolls generously with cooking spray and cook in skillet over medium heat until browned on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes.

Place chicken in baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees, uncovered, until cooked through, about 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 210; Protein: 34.6 g; Fat: 3.9 g; Sodium: 540 mg; Cholesterol: 73.2 mg; Carbohydrates: 6.3 g; Exchanges: 4 Meat

THAI CHICKEN WITH BASIL

Yield: 4 servings

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/653.shtml

Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

Ingredients

1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

3 tablespoons Asian fish sauce

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon brown sugar

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

1 large onion (12 ounces), cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

2 red or green chiles (serrano or jalapeno), seeded and cut into matchstick strips

2 teaspoons minced, peeled fresh ginger

2 garlic cloves, crushed with garlic press

1-1/2 cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves

Directions

With knife held in slanting position, almost parallel to cutting surface, cut each chicken breast half crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. In medium bowl, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar; add chicken slices, tossing to coat. Let marinate 5 minutes.

In nonstick 12-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until very hot. Add chicken with marinade and cook, stirring frequently (stir-frying), until chicken loses its pink color throughout, 3 to 4 minutes. With slotted spoon, transfer chicken to bowl.

Add onion to marinade remaining in skillet and cook, stir-frying, until tender-crisp, about 4 minutes. Stir in chiles, ginger, and garlic; cook 1 minute longer.

Return chicken to skillet; heat thorough. Stir in basil leaves just before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 238; Protein: 31 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 784 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Carbohydrates: 16 g; Exchanges: 4 Lean Meat, 1 Bread/Starch

OLD-FASHIONED TOMATO SOUP

Yield: 4 servings

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/22.shtml

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/643.shtml

Ingredients

1 Tbsp. butter

1 onion, finely chopped

2 large garlic cloves, chopped

1 can (28-oz.) diced tomatoes

1 Tbsp. sugar

1 tsp. dried thyme

1/8 tsp. ground mace

Pinch of cayenne pepper

1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half cream

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

3 Tbsp. snipped dill, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Melt the butter in a small Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Saute the onion until translucent, 4 minutes. Add the garlic and saute until the onions are golden, 5 to 6 minutes.

Add the tomatoes with their juices, the sugar, thyme, mace and cayenne. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer the soup until the tomatoes and onion are soft, about 15 minutes.

Let the soup sit 20 minutes, uncovered. Transfer it to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and reduce the mixture to a puree, either pulpy or completely smooth, as desired. Blend in the half-and-half. Season the soup to taste with salt and pepper.

Serve the soup hot, sprinkling one-fourth of the dill over each bowl, if using.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 586 mg; Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1 Reduced-Fat Milk, 1 Vegetable

CARROT AND RAISIN SALAD

Servings: 6

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/22.shtml

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/311.shtml

Ingredients

2-1/2 cups shredded carrots (about 3 large)

3/4 cup chopped celery

1/3 cup raisins

1/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

3/4 cup fat-free mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard

1-2 teaspoons sugar

1/8 teaspoon salt

6 lettuce leaves

Directions

Combine carrots, celery, raisins, and walnuts in medium bowl.

Add remaining ingredients, except lettuce, stirring until blended.

Serve on lettuce-lined salad plates.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 115; Protein: 2.6 g; Fat: 4.1 g; Sodium: 460 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 19.2 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1/2 Fruit, 1 Fat

SUMMER SOUP

Servings: 4 (1-cup servings)

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/312.shtml

Source: Light and Easy Diabetes Cuisine

Ingredients

2 cups water

Salt and pepper to taste

2 new potatoes, peeled, diced

2 carrots, sliced

6 fresh spinach leaves, chopped

1/2 cup fresh green peas or thawed frozen green peas

1 tablespoon arrowroot

1-1/2 cups skim milk

1/4 teaspoon red (cayenne) pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

In a medium-size saucepan, place water, salt, pepper, potatoes and carrots; bring to a boil. Cover and cook 10 minutes. Add the remaining vegetables and cook 5 minutes more.

Meanwhile, make a paste of the arrowroot and 3 tablespoons of the milk. Add remaining milk and stir into the vegetables. Add cayenne and simmer 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender. Garnish with parsley.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 97; Protein: 6 g; Sodium: 112 mg; Cholesterol: 2 mg; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Milk, 2 Vegetable

EGGPLANT AND TOMATO CASSEROLE

Serves: 8

Source: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/22.shtml

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/310.shtml

Ingredients

1 large eggplant (2 pounds), peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/2 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs

1/3 cup chopped onion

3 cloves garlic

1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves, divided

1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 eggs

3 medium tomatoes, sliced

1/4 cup grated fat-free Parmesan cheese

Directions

Cook eggplant in 2 inches simmering water in covered medium saucepan until tender, 5 to 8 minutes. Drain well. Mash eggplant with fork; mix in breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, 1 teaspoon oregano, basil, and thyme. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix in eggs.

Spoon eggplant mixture into 11x7-inch baking dish. Arrange tomatoes in rows over eggplant; sprinkle with cheese and remaining 1/2 teaspoon oregano.

Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F. until hot through, about 20 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 98; Protein: 5.1 g; Fat: 1.9 g; Sodium: 245 mg; Cholesterol: 53.3 mg; Carbohydrates: 16.9 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Fat

Monday, April 19, 2021

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday, where we check out food that's both diabetic-friendly and vegetarian. Check out the Chili Banzos, the Simple Veggie Skewers, or any of the other yummly recipes. Enjoy!

CHILE CON QUESO

Recipe Yield: Yield: 6 servings

Source: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

Book Title: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chile-con-queso.

Ingredients

1 (28 ounce) can low-sodium whole tomatoes in juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3/4 teaspoon ground ancho chile powder

3/4 teaspoon chile powder

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1 (15 ounce) can black beans with juice

1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chiles

3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

2 tablespoons minced cilantro

Directions

In a large nonstick skillet, over medium-high heat, cook the tomatoes, garlic, onion, ancho chile powder, chile powder, and cumin, stirring occasionally, until mixture starts to thicken, 8 -10 minutes.

Turn the heat to low and add the beans, chiles, 2 tablespoons of the parsley, and the vinegar; cook, stirring occasionally, until bubbly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cheese.

Place in a serving dish or in individual bowls; top with the cilantro and remaining parsley.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 144; Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 7 g; Sodium: 441 mg; Cholesterol: 8 mg; Protein: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g; Sugars: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 2 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

CHILI BANZOS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 Servings (1/4 cup each)

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

Book Title: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chili-banzos.

Ingredients

2 cans (15 ounces each) garbanzo beans

Olive oil cooking spray

1 tablespoon reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce

1-2 teaspoons chili powder

1-2 teaspoons garlic powder

1-2 teaspoons onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

2-3 dashes hot pepper sauce

Salt, to taste

Directions

Rinse beans, drain, and dry well on paper toweling.

Arrange beans in large skillet; spray generously with cooking spray. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until beans begin to brown, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Combine Worcestershire sauce, spices, and hot pepper sauce; pour over beans and stir to coat evenly. Sprinkle lightly with salt.

Transfer beans to jelly roll pan; bake at 325 degrees F. until beans are very crisp on the outside, 20 to 25 minutes, stirring twice. Cool; store in airtight container.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 109; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 440 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread

DIRT DESSERT PUDDING BOWLS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Dessert has never been so much fun to create or enjoy than with this classic dirt dessert—now in an easy-to-hold, edible tortilla bowl! Sweetened and oven-baked Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls make sure you don't miss a single dirt crumb. Layers of chocolate pudding, crushed sandwich cookies and gummy worm candies will delight your kids (and adults!). It's perfect for birthdays, and easy enough for an anytime dessert."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 12

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/dirt-dessert-pudding-bowls.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, melted

1 package (12 count) Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls

1 tablespoon sugar

1 package (4-serving size) chocolate instant pudding and pie filling mix

1 1/2 cups cold milk

1/2 cup frozen (thawed) whipped topping

8 creme-filled chocolate sandwich cookies, finely crushed (about 3/4 cup)

12 gummy worm candies

Preparation

Heat oven to 375°F. Line rimmed cookie sheet with foil. Lightly brush melted butter on all sides of tortilla bowls. Sprinkle sugar on all sides of bowls. Place on cookie sheet. Bake 5 to 7 minutes or until lightly browned on edges and firm to the touch. Bowls will crisp as they cool. Remove to cooling rack to cool completely, about 10 minutes.

When ready to serve, in medium bowl, beat pudding mix and milk 2 minutes, using whisk. Fold in whipped topping. Divide pudding mixture among cooled tortilla bowls, spreading evenly.

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon crushed cookies over top of each; lightly press into pudding layer. Cut gummy worm candies in half, and insert the two ends into top of each tortilla bowl. Serve immediately. Store any remaining bowls in refrigerator.

Expert Tips

For more fun, try sprinkling green candy sprinkles or flower-shaped candy decors on tops of crushed cookies in dirt pudding.

To easily crush cookies in this dirt dessert recipe, place in resealable food-storage plastic bag, and go over with rolling pin.

Gummy worm candies can vary in size. There’s no need to cut them in half if you buy minis!

Nutrition: 1 Mini Tortilla Bowl: Calories: 180 (Calories from Fat: 45); Total Fat: 5g (Saturated Fat 2.5g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 5mg; Sodium 270mg; Total Carbohydrate 29g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 17g); Protein 3g

% Daily Value:Vitamin A 0%; Vitamin C 0%; Calcium 6%; Iron 8%;

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Fat

Carbohydrate Choices: 2

QUESADILLAS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings (2 wedges)

Source: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

Book Title: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/quesadillas.

Ingredients

1 cup shredded Mexican Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or brick cheese

1 green onion, minced

1-3 tablespoons canned chopped green chilies (to taste)

4 8-inch flour tortillas

Chunky salsa, for topping or dip

Directions

In a medium bowl, toss together the cheese, green onion, and chilies; set aside.

Spray a medium skillet with nonstick cooking spray and place over medium heat.

When hot, add 1 tortilla and sprinkle it with one-fourth of the cheese mixture.

When the cheese begins to melt, about 1 minute, fold the tortilla in half.

Continue cooking until lightly browned and crisp on both sides, about 1 minute.

Transfer to a cutting board.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Cut into 4 wedges with a knife or pizza cutter and serve immediately with the salsa.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 134; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 211 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Sugars: 1 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

NOODLE KUGEL

Yield: 12 Servings

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/684.shtml

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked broad egg noodles

3 large eggs, beaten, or 3/4 cup egg substitute

3/4 cup low-fat small-curd cottage cheese

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 large tart apple, peeled, cored, and diced in 1/4-inch pieces

1/4 cup raisins, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes and drained

1/4 cup margarine, melted

Directions

Cook the noodles according to the package directions, omitting salt; drain well. There should be 4 cups of cooked noodles.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8-inch-square pan with non-stick pan spray.

Combine the eggs, cottage cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a large bowl. Stir in the noodles, apple, and raisins. Pour into the prepared dish.

Drizzle the margarine evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake, uncovered, for 45 to 55 minutes, or until lightly browned. Cut the kugel into 12 equal pieces (about 2 x 2 inches). Serve hot or chilled.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (one 2 x 2-1/2-inch square): Calories: 156, Fat: 6 g, Cholesterol: 71 mg, Sodium: 122 mg, Carbohydrate: 20 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 6 g, Protein: 6 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 1 Fat

SIMPLE VEGGIE SKEWERS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 12 appetizers

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/simple-veggie-skewers.

Ingredients

1 medium-small zucchini squash

12 cubes (3/4-inches each) reduced-fat white cheddar, provolone, or Swiss cheese (about 3 ounces)

12 small whole fresh mushrooms

12 pitted jumbo black olives

12 cherry or grape tomatoes

12 wooden skewers (6-inches each)

1/2 cup light ranch salad dressing (optional)

Directions

Trim the ends off the zucchini, quarter it lengthwise, and cut into 3/4-inch pieces.

Thread 1 of the zucchini pieces, 1 cube of cheese, 1 mushroom, 1 olive, 1 tomato, and another zucchini piece onto each skewer.

Serve immediately (accompanied by the dressing if desired) or cover and chill for several hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Fat: 2.8 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 138 mg; Cholesterol: 7 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Medium-Fat Meat