Diabetic Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Friday, November 10, 2023

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Here are six diabetic-friendly recipes to help you through the weekend, including Quick Italian Beef Roast with Zucchini and Tomatoes and Spicy Thai Chicken. Enjoy!

SPICED APPLE PUDDING

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

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spiced-apple-pudding.

Ingredients

2 cups Unsweetened apple juice

1/3 cup Granulated sugar substitute

1/3 cup Cornstarch

1/2 tsp Cinnamon

1 Egg

Directions

In a heavy saucepan, combine 1/2 cup apple juice and cornstarch; mix well. Add remaining juice. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring, until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

In a bowl, beat egg with a fork. Add 1/2 cup of hot mixture to beaten egg. Stir until smooth. Return immediately to hot mixture, stirring constantly. (The hot mixture will cook the egg.)

Stir in sweetener and cinnamon. Pour into 4 dessert dishes, cover with plastic wrap to prevent skin from forming. Cool to room temperature or chill in refrigerator.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 117; Fat: 1 g; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch; 1 fruit

MIXED GARDEN CASSEROLE

Prep Time: 15 Minutes; Cost: $; Servings: 10; Difficulty Level: 2

Source: Cinnamon Hearts

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mixed-garden-casserole.

Ingredients

1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed

2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 cup uncooked regular rice

1 small eggplant, peeled & sliced

1 large onion, sliced

3 medium zucchini, sliced

3 med-size yellow squash, sliced

1 large green pepper, seeded & sliced

2 large tomatoes, peeled, sliced

2 tbsp butter or margarine

Directions

Combine brown sugar, salt and pepper; set aside.

Place rice in bottom of a lightly spray-coated or non-stick 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Layer eggplant, onion, yellow squash, zucchini, green pepper and tomato in baking dish. Sprinkle brown sugar mixture over each layer. Dot with butter or margarine.

Cover tightly and bake at 350F for 1-1/2 hours or until rice and vegetables are tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 543 mg; Cholesterol: 6 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 bread/starch; 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat

LEEK-MUSHROOM SOUP

Prep Time: 25 Minutes; Cost: $; Servings: 8; Difficulty Level: 2

Source: Suzi Castle's Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods

Book Title: Suzi Castle's Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/leek-mushroom-soup.

Ingredients

6 large leeks

1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 tsp dried tarragon leaves

1/3 cup flour

1/4 tsp white pepper

2 cups low-fat (1% fat) milk

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Directions

Trim root ends and tough, dark green tops off leeks. Split leeks lengthwise, rinse with water, and slice thinly to make 1 quart of cut leeks.

In a large, heavy soup pot sprayed with nonstick spray, cook leeks, mushrooms, garlic, tarragon and pepper over medium-high heat, stirring often for 15 minutes. Cover pot if vegetables become too dry.

In a blender, mix flour with milk. Add to cooked vegetables. Add chicken broth and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 115; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 407 mg; Cholesterol: 4 mg; Protein: 9 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable; 1/2 low-fat milk

CHOCOLATE CHERRY TARTS

Recipe Yield: Servings: 24

Source: Cinnamon Hearts

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

Ingredients

2 (8oz) packages Neufchatel (light) cream cheese, room temp

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs, room temp

1 tsp vanilla extract

24 Keebler chocolate wafers, 30% reduced fat

1 (21oz) can light cherry pie filling

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffin tins with foil and paper cupcake liners.

Beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla extract and beat until smooth. Place a chocolate wafer in each cup, spoon on cheese mixture. Bake 18 to 20 minutes; remove from tins and let cool. Top with cherry pie filling. Chill overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 118; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 104 mg; Cholesterol: 24 mg; Carbohydrates: 16 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 bread; 1/2 fruit; 1/2 protein; 1 fat

SPICY THAI CHICKEN

Recipe Yield: Servings: 2 (4 oz. each)

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

Ingredients

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

2 tbsp white vinegar

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1 packet Equal sugar substitute (or similar substitute)

2-4oz boneless chicken breasts, skinned

1 lime, sliced into 6 wedges

Directions

Puree red bell pepper with vinegar in a food processor.

Pour puree into a saucepan. Add red pepper flakes and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 3 minutes more.

Remove from the heat and let stand til cool.

Once the red pepper puree is cooled, stir in the Equal sugar substitute.

In a preheated oven, broil the chicken breasts for about 10 minutes (or until browned). Turn chicken and broil approximately 5 minutes more.

Prepare a serving platter with a bed of hot, cooked, white rice, brown rice, or couscous.

Remove chicken from oven and place breasts atop the bed of rice/couscous. Spoon the spicy red pepper sauce atop the chicken breasts, garnish with the lime wedges, and serve at once.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 200; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 85 mg; Protein: 35 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Lean Meat

QUICK ITALIAN BEEF ROAST WITH ZUCCHINI AND TOMATOES

This recipe begins, “Rubs are an popular way to season a roast. Not only does it add flavor, but it creates a coat that helps seal in moisture and adds texture.”

Makes 8 servings

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1305

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1305.shtml

Ingredients

1 beef Eye of Round Roast (2 pounds)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/8 teaspoon pepper

3 medium zucchini, sliced (1/2-inch)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halves

Directions

Heat oven to 325F.

Combine salt, 1/2 teaspoon basil, oregano and pepper; press onto beef roast.

Place roast on rack in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so tip is centered in thickest part of beef. Do not add water or cover.

Roast in 325F oven 1-1/4 hours for medium rare doneness.

Remove roast when meat thermometer registers 135F.

Transfer to board; tent with foil. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10F to reach 145F for medium rare.)

Increase oven temperature to 425F.

Combine remaining ingredients, except tomatoes, in large bowl; toss. Place on rack in pan.

Roast in 425F oven 15 minutes or until tender. Add tomatoes; toss. Carve roast. Serve with vegetables.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 244; Protein: 35 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 278 mg; Cholesterol: 86 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Pies

Many times, when someone is first diagnosed with diabetes, one of the things we might think is, "Well, so much for desserts, or anything yummy."

Fortunately, nothing could be farther from the truth. Yes, one does have to make changes, but there are plenty of delicious diabetic-friendly desserts out there. Here are five diabetic-friendly Pies - and one pie crust (Chocolate-Almond Piecrust) - to check out (and that you might want to consider for the up-coming holidays), including a Cappuccino Pie and Lemon Chiffon Pie. Enjoy!

DUTCH APPLE PIE

Servings: 12

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/50.shtml

Ingredients

1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup quick cooking oats

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

5 cup sliced baking apples

Sweetener equal to 1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened frozen apple juice concentrate

Pie crust for 1 crust pie

Topping:

1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup quick cooking oats

Sweetener to equal 1/2 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 package sugarfree instant vanilla pudding mix

1/2 cup butter or margarine

Directions

Mix flour, oats, cinnamon, and sweetener with a fork.

Pour over sliced apples and mix well.

Pour apple juice over top of apples and mix well again.

Put apple mixture in pie crust; set aside.

For topping:

Mix dry ingredients with fork.

Add butter and cut into dry ingredients with a pastry blender or 2 knives until it resembles coarse crumbs, Pour mixture over pie filling and press down evenly over apples.

Bake at 400 degrees for 45-55 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 251; Fat: 12 g; Sodium: 238 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg ; Carbohydrates: 25 g

LEMON CHIFFON PIE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

View this online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/157.shtml

Ingredients

3 tbsp margarine

3 tbsp sugar

3/4 cup graham wafer crumbs

1/2 tsp lemon peel, grated

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp salt

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/4 cup lemon juice

1/8 tsp allspice

1/2 cup sweetener equivalent to sugar

1 tbsp unflavored gelatin (1 pkg)

1/3 cup powdered skim milk

1/2 cup water

1/3 cup ice water

2 eggs, separated

1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

Melt margarine in a pie plate at high for 30-45 seconds. Combine graham crumbs and spices. Add to pie plate and combine well with a fork. Spread evenly over bottom of pie plate. Microwave at high for 3-5 min, watching carefully to prevent scorching. Allow to cool before filling.

In a large measure, sprinkle gelatin on 1/2 cup water. Allow to soften. In a separate bowl, combine egg yolks, sugar, lemon peel, salt and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Microwave at medium for 5-8 min until mixture comes to a boil stirring every 2 minutes. Add gelatin and sweetener and mix well. Refrigerate until slightly thickened.

Beat egg whites, powdered milk, ice water and 1 tbsp lemon juice until stiff. Carefully fold gelatin mixture into egg whites. Pour into crust. Refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 115; Fat: 5 g; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread, 1 Fat

BANANA PINEAPPLE TROPICAL PIE

Ingredients

Pastry for single crust 9-inch pie

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

1/2 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

1 container (8 oz.) light whipped topping, thawed if frozen

1 can (8 oz.) crushed pineapple, well drained

1/4 cup flaked coconut, divided

1/2 teaspoon rum extract

2 medium ripe bananas, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices

1 tablespoon chopped pecans

* May substitute 12 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Preheat oven to 375F. Roll pastry on floured surface into circle 1 inch larger than inverted 9-inch pie plate. Ease pastry into plate; trim and flute edge. Pierce side and bottom of pastry with tines of a fork. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely on wire rack.

Meanwhile, beat cream cheese and Equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Gradually mix in whipped topping, pineapple, 3 tablespoons coconut and rum extract.

Place half of cream cheese mixture over pie crust. Arrange banana slices in single layer. Top with remaining cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle top of pie with remaining 1 tablespoon coconut and chopped pecans. Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 272; Protein: 6 g; Sodium: 199 mg; Cholesterol: 29 mg; Fat: 16 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fruit, 3 fat

COCONUT CUSTARD PIE

Ingredients

Pastry for single-crust 9 inch pie

4 eggs

2 cups 2% milk

1 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup toasted flaked coconut

1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)

* May substitute 24 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Roll pastry on floured surface into circle 1 inch larger than inverted 9-inch pie plate. Ease pastry into plate; trim and flute edge. Set aside.

Beat eggs in large bowl about 5 minutes or until thick and lemon colored. Whisk in milk and remaining ingredients. Pour mixture into pastry shell.

Bake pie in preheated 375F oven 30 to 35 minutes or until sharp knife inserted halfway between center and edge of pie comes out clean. Cool on wire rack. Serve at room temperature, or refrigerate and serve chilled.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 194; Protein: 6 g; Sodium: 301 mg; Cholesterol: 115 mg; Fat: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g

Exchanges: 1/2 milk, 1/2 starch, 2 fat

CAPPUCCINO PIE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings

Source: Diabetic Dream Desserts

Book Title: Diabetic Dream Desserts

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

Ingredients

1/2 cup room temperature coffee

1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin

1/4 cup coffee liqueur

1 cup nonfat or light ricotta cheese

Sugar substitute equal to 1/3 cup sugar

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 cups nonfat or light whipped topping

1 Chocolate-Almond Piecrust (click for recipe)

1-1/2 tablespoons shaved dark chocolate

Directions

Place 2 tablespoons of the coffee in a blender. Sprinkle the gelatin over the coffee and let sit for 2 minutes.

Bring the remaining coffee to a boil and pour over the mixture in the blender. Blend for 1 minute, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly.

Add the liqueur to the blender mixture and blend to mix. Add the ricotta, sugar substitute, and cinnamon and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until the consistency of pudding. Whisk until smooth and then fold in the whipped topping.

Spread the ricotta mixture into the piecrust, swirling the top.

Sprinkle the chocolate over the top.

Cover and chill for at least 3 hours, or until set.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 208; Fat: 7 g; Fiber: 1.1 g; Sodium: 128 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Protein: 7.2 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Carbohydrate: 1-1/2 Fat

CHOCOLATE-ALMOND PIECRUST

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings

Source: Diabetic Dream Desserts

Book Title: Diabetic Dream Desserts

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

Ingredients

1/2 cup sliced almonds

2 tablespoons sugar

3/4 cup chocolate graham cracker crumbs

Sugar substitute equal to 3 tablespoons sugar

1-1/2 tablespoons melted margarine or butter

1-1/2 teaspoons fat-free egg substitute

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the almonds and sugar in a food processor and process until the almonds are finely ground. Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar substitute and process to mix well.

Add the margarine or butter and the egg substitute and process, pulsing for a few seconds at a time, until the mixture is moistened.

Coat a 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking spray and press the mixture firmly over the bottom and sides of the pan. (Place your hand inside a small plastic bag as you press to prevent sticking.)

Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool to room temperature before filling.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 109; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 89 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate, 1 Fat

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Chicken

There was a time when chicken was reserved for the Sunday dinner table (think early- to mid-twentieth century). Now, it's an anytime meal. Check out today's diabetic-friendly chicken recipes, including Parmesan Chicken Topped with Spinach and Almonds and Light Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas. Enjoy!

CHICKEN MARSALA

Recipe Yield: Servings: 4

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

Ingredients

1/4 cup flour

Dash white pepper

Dash oregano

Dash basil

1-1/4 pound boneless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon safflower oil

1 tablespoon butter or margarine

1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced

1 cup marsala wine or dry sherry

Directions

Mix the flour, white pepper, oregano, and basil together on a plate.

Wash and dry the chicken breasts and coat each with the flour mixture. Reserve any leftover flour.

Heat the oil and butter in a frying pan. Add the chicken breasts and saute gently until brown and tender on both sides, about 15 minutes. Remove the breasts to a dish.

Add the mushrooms and 1/4 cup of the wine; cook for about 5 minutes over low heat. Scrape the bottom of pan to loosen any flour. Stir in any reserved flour and the remaining wine.

Simmer until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Slip the cooked breasts into the sauce. Cook gently for about 5 minutes or more.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 333; Fat: 9.1 g; Sodium: 106 mg; Protein: 21 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3/4 Bread/Starch, 3 Low-Fat Meat

CHICKEN AND SPINACH SALAD

Recipe Yield: Yield: 14 cups (7 - 2 cups servings)

Source: Cooking Healthy and Fast

Book Title: Cooking Healthy and Fast

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-and-spinach-salad.

Ingredients

6 oz. fresh spinach

2 oranges, peeled and cut into chunks

2 cups cooked and cubed chicken

2 cups fresh strawberries

Dressing:

2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar

3 Tbsp. orange juice

1-1/2 Tbsp. canola oil

1/4 tsp. dry mustard

1/3 tsp. poppy seeds

Directions

Mix dressing ingredients and regrigerate. Wash spinach and tear into bite size pieces. Add oranges, chicken and strawberries. Serve with dressing.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 135; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 46 mg; Cholesterol: 31 mg;Carbohydrates: 10 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1 1/2 lean meat

LIGHT SOUR CREAM CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

Recipe Yield: Servings: 6 (2 Enchiladas each)

Source: Cooking Healthy and Fast

Book Title: Cooking Healthy and Fast

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/light-sour-cream-chicken-enchiladas.

Ingredients

1 (8oz) container light sour cream

1 (8oz) container nonfat plain yogurt

1 (10-3/4oz) can cream of chicken soup with 1/3 less salt

1 (4oz) can diced green chilies

12 (6-7 inch) white corn or flour tortillas

1 Cup (4oz) shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese

1-1/2 Cups chopped cooked chicken

1/4 Cup sliced green onions

Directions

Heat oven to 350F degrees. Spray a 13x9-inch (3 Qt) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In med. bowl, combine sour cream, yogurt, soup and chilies; mix well. Spoon bout 3 Tbsp sour cream mixture down center of each tortilla. Reserve 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese; sprinkle each tortilla with remaining cheese, chicken and onions. Roll tortillas and place in spray-coated dish, seam side down. Spoon remaining sour cream mixture over tortillas. Cover with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Remove foil; sprinkle with reserved 1/4 cup cheese. Return to oven & bake, uncovered, an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Garnish with shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 358; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 590 mg; Cholesterol: 63 mg; Carbohydrates: 35 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat, 2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Milk, 1 Fat

BAKED CAJUN CHICKEN

Servings: 4

Source: Better Homes & Gardens

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/33.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 to 2 pounds split chicken breasts

1/2 dried thyme, crushed

Nonstick spray coating

1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

2 tablespoons nonfat milk

1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper

2 tablespoons onion powder

1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Rinse chicken, pat dry. Cut off skin and discard.

Spray a 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Arrange the chicken in the dish; meat side up.

Brush lightly with milk.

In small bowl mix onion powder, thyme, garlic salt, white pepper, red pepper, and black pepper.

Sprinkle over chicken.

Bake in a 375 degree oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 166; Protein: 25 g; Fat: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 0 g; Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat

PARMESAN CHICKEN TOPPED WITH SPINACH AND ALMONDS

Yield: 4 servings

Source: Hellmann's

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1313

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1313.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 tablespoons Hellmann's or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise

1 cup loosely packed baby spinach leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon chopped almonds

2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon plain dry bread crumbs

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)

Directions

Preheat oven to 425F.

In medium bowl, combine all ingredients except chicken.

On baking sheet, arrange chicken.

Evenly top with mayonnaise mixture.

Bake 15 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 180; Protein: 27 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 140 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Carbohydrates: 2 g

BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN

Recipe Yield: Servings: 6

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

Ingredients

Vegetable oil spray

4 slices whole-wheat bread

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1-1/2 tablespoons finely snipped fresh parsley

1-1/2 teaspoons paprika

3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

1/2 cup nonfat or low-fat buttermilk

Vegetable oil spray

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, about 4 ounces each, all visible fat removed

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Lightly spray a rectangular baking sheet and slightly smaller cooling rack with vegetable oil spray. Put rack on baking sheet. Set aside.

In a food processor or blender, process bread into fine crumbs. Pour into a shallow bowl. Stir Parmesan, parsley, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme into crumbs.

Pour buttermilk into a shallow bowl.

Rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Dip chicken into buttermilk, shake off excess liquid, dredge in crumbs, and shake off excess crumbs. Put chicken on cooling rack. Spray each breast with vegetable oil spray.

Bake for 15 minutes, turn chicken, and bake for 10 minutes, or until done.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 209; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 303 mg; Cholesterol: 68 mg; Protein: 38 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3/4 Bread/Starch; 4 Low-Fat Meat

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Taco Tuesday

It's time for another Taco Tuesday (because no one should be deprived of tacos, right?). Check out the Southwest Turkey Tacos, the Chipotle BBQ Pork Folded Tacos, and the rest of today's taco recipes. Enjoy!

SHREDDED CHICKEN TACOS

This is from Eating Well, and begins, "This taco recipe is a great choice for midweek dinners, even if it's not Taco Tuesday! Instead of beef, we use moist, boneless chicken thighs and to make things easier for you, the taco filling is cooked in a slow cooker, so you can prepare it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Additional Time: 2 hours 45 minutes; Total Time: 3 hours; Servings: 8; Yield: 16 tacos

To view this online, go to https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/270350/shredded-chicken-tacos/.

Ingredients

1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained

1 fresh jalapeño pepper, halved and stemmed (see Tip)

3 cloves garlic, peeled

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs

16 (6 inch) corn or flour tortillas, warmed

1 cup Guacamole, chopped fresh cilantro, and/or lime wedges

Directions

Combine undrained tomatoes, jalapeño pepper, garlic, chili powder, and salt in a blender; cover and blend until smooth. Pour the tomato mixture into a 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker. Add chicken thighs; stir to coat.

Cover and cook on Low for 5 to 6 hours or on High for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

Remove the chicken and place in a bowl. Shred the chicken using two forks. Add enough sauce mixture from the slow cooker to the shredded chicken to moisten. Serve the chicken in tortillas. If desired, top with guacamole, cilantro, and/or lime wedges.

Tips

Equipment: 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker

Tip: Because hot chile peppers, such as jalapeños, contain volatile oils that can burn your skin and eyes, avoid direct contact with chiles as much as possible. When working with chile peppers, wear plastic or rubber gloves. If your bare hands do touch the chile peppers, wash your hands well with soap and water.

SWEET POTATO AND SPINACH CHICKEN TACOS

This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, "Unexpected taco fillings are all the rage on the food truck scene. Make these rich and savory versions at home!"

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4; Serving Size: 1 taco

To view this online, go to https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/sweet-potato-and-spinach-chicken-tacos.html.

Ingredients

1-1/2 tbsp olive oil

1 clove garlic (minced)

24 oz. baby spinach

1 (about 8 oz) large sweet potato (peeled and diced)

1/4 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp black pepper

4 tbsp water

1 cup cooked shredded chicken

4 6-inch corn tortillas (warmed)

4 tsp light sour cream

1/2 cup pico de gallo or salsa

Directions

In a large nonstick pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the spinach and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the sweet potato, cumin, black pepper, and water to the pan. Sauté for 2 minutes. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 8 minutes.

Add the chicken to the pan and mix to incorporate. Heat for 2 minutes.

Fill each tortilla with 1/4 of the chicken and sweet potato mixture. Top with 1 Tsp. of sour cream and 2 Tbsp. of pico de gallo.

VEGETARIAN TACOS

This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, "These tacos don’t require any cooking, which makes it easy for you to put together a quick and easy vegetarian meal and be on your way. The bean mixture is also delicious when topping a salad of mixed greens. Serve with Cubano Roasted Broccoli Florets Latin-inspired, veggie-packed meal. You can make these tacos vegan by simply leaving out the cheese."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Servings: 4; Serving Size: 2 tacos

To view this online, go to https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/vegetarian-tacos.html.

Ingredients

1 cup no-salt-added kidney beans (rinsed and drained)

1/2 cup frozen corn (thawed)

1 roma tomato (diced)

1 avocado (diced)

2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

1 tbsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp chili powder

8 6-inch corn tortillas

1/2 cup shredded romaine lettuce

1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar or Mexican-style cheese

1/2 cup salsa

1/4 cup chopped green onions

Ingredients

In a small bowl, gently stir together the beans, corn, tomato, avocado, cilantro, lemon juice, and chili powder.

Spoon 1/2 cup bean mixture down the center of each tortilla. Top with the romaine, cheddar, salsa, and green onions. Fold the sides of the tortillas over the filling.

CHORIZIO PORK TACOS WITH CREAMY SLAW

This is from Old El Paso, and begin, "Shake up taco night with this easy-to-make taco that delivers big on flavor. Cooked ground pork is seasoned with chorizo taco seasoning mix, and then layered with a quick and easy creamy cabbage slaw, topped with shredded cheese, radishes and green onions."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Makes 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/chorizo-pork-tacos-with-creamy-slaw.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons mayonnaise

2 teaspoons lime juice

1/8 teaspoon salt

2 cups shredded green cabbage

1/4 cup sliced green onions

1 lb ground pork

2/3 cup water

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

1 1/4 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (5 oz)

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

1/4 cup thinly sliced radishes

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges, if desired

Preparation

In medium bowl, stir mayonnaise, lime juice and salt until blended. Add cabbage and 2 tablespoons of the green onions; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until needed.

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook pork over medium-high heat 7 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until no longer pink; do not drain. Stir in water and taco seasoning mix; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Divide warm pork mixture and cheese among heated taco shells. Top with slaw, radish, remaining 2 tablespoons green onions and the cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Expert Tips

To save time, purchase shredded cabbage.

Try shredded Monterey Jack cheese instead of Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend for a new flavor twist.

Nutrition: 10 servings (1 taco each); 1 Taco Calories 260 (Calories from Fat 160); Total Fat 18g (Saturated Fat 7g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 45mg; Sodium 410mg; Total Carbohydrate 12g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 1g); Protein 13g; % Daily Value: Vitamin A 2%; Vitamin C 6%; Calcium 10%; Iron 6%; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Lean Meat, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 2 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.

CHIPOTLE BBQ PORK FOLDED TACOS

This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, "Looking for an easy meal that's a prep-it and forget-about-it special? This amazing taco recipe from Kelley Coffeen, author of the cookbook Tex-Mex Diabetic Cooking, lets your slow-cooker do all the work! (Though if you're home all day, be prepared for the appetizing smell of slow-cooked pork to fill your house—hunger may be a side-effect.) Finished off in a simmering BBQ and chipotle blend, the final shredded pork is a juicy filling for a healthier version of southwestern tacos."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 6 hours; Makes 16 servings; Serving Size: 1 taco

To view this online, go to https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/chipotle-bbq-pork-folded-tacos.html.

Ingredients

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 cup reduced-sugar barbecue sauce

4 chipotle chili peppers in adobo sauce (pureed )

2 lbs pork shoulder (trimmed)

1-1/2 tsp smoked paprika

16 low-carb whole-wheat tortillas

2 cups shredded cabbage

1-1/2 cups diced onion (about 2 medium onions)

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine the garlic, barbecue sauce, and chipotles. Blend well, then set aside in the refrigerator.

Place the pork in a 3- to 6-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 6 hours.

Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board. Shred the pork with two forks, discarding the excess fat. Return the pork to the slow cooker. Sprinkle the paprika over the shredded pork, then add the barbecue mixture. Cover and cook on low for 1 hour. Skim off any excess fat.

To build the tacos, place a heaping spoonful of pork (about 1/4 cup) on a warmed tortilla. Top with cabbage and onions, and serve. Place any leftover pork in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Monday, November 6, 2023

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Check out today's six diabetic-friendly meatless recipes, including Vegetable Stir-Fry and Two Bean Chili. Enjoy!

MELON WITH FRESH BERRY SAUCE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 6 servings

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Book Title: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/melon-with-fresh-berry-sauce

Ingredients

3-1/3 cups fresh or frozen (thawed and undrained) raspberries or blackberries

1-1/2 tablespoons orange juice

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

Sugar substitute equal to 3 tablespoons sugar

1/2 raspberries or blackberries

1/2 honeydew melon

Directions

Place 2 cups of the berries and all of the orange juice and lemon juice in a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Pour the mixture into a wire strainer and use the back of a spoon to push the mixture through the strainer and into a bowl. Discard the seeds. Stir the sugar substitute into the berry puree and set the sauce aside.

Remove the seeds and rind from the melons. Cut each melon piece into 3 long wedges and then cut each wedge in half crosswise to make a total of 12 shorter wedges. Using a sharp knife, slice each melon wedge lengthwise toward the point without cutting completely to the end and open each wedge into fan shape.

Place 2 tablespoons of the sauce on each of 6 dessert plates. Top the sauce on each plate with a cantaloupe and honeydew fan and garnish with some of the remaining fresh berries. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 85; Fat: 0.2 g; Fiber: 3.3 g; Sodium: 41 mg; Protein: 1.6 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Carbohydrate

TWO BEAN CHILI

Yield: Makes about 7 cups (7 servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/509.shtml

Ingredients

2 onions, coarsely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons canola, corn, or olive oil

One 14-15 ounce can stewed tomatoes with juice

1 can or bottle beer (12 ounces)

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce, or 1 tablespoon hot salsa or picante sauce

1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

One 15-ounce can pinto beans, rinsed and drained

One 15-ounce can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and coarsely chopped

Direction

Saute the onions and garlic in oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes with their liquid, the beer, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, and salt (if desired).

Simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes. Stir in the beans and green pepper; simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes longer.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 173; Protein: 9 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 238 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 32 g

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

SUGAR FREE BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 12 muffinsServing size: 1 muffin

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

This recipe begins, “Blueberry-filled muffins that have a cake-like texture.”

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/sugar-free-blueberry-muffins.

Ingredients

2 cups all purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup light margarine, softened

1 cup Splenda Essentials No Calorie Sweetener with Fiber, Granulated

1/4 cup honey

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk

1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, thawed

Directions

Place oven rack in top 1/3 of oven.

Preheat oven to 400F. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. Lightly spray liners with nonstick cooking spray.

Sift together flour, baking powder and salt, set aside.

Beat margarine at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add Splenda Essentials Granulated Sweetener and honey, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Stir in vanilla. Alternately add flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat at low speed until blended after each addition. Fold in blueberries.

Spoon batter evenly into paper lined muffin cups. Bake 20 to 22 minutes or until golden. Remove from pan immediately and cool on wire rack.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Fat: 5 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 280 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Sugars: 8 g

VEGETABLE STIR-FRY

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

Source: The New American Heart Association Cookbook

Book Title: The New American Heart Association Cookbook

View this online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/240.shtml

Ingredients

1 pound fresh broccoli

1 teaspoon acceptable margarine

1 teaspoon acceptable vegetable oil

1 pound carrots, peeled and thinly sliced

12 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced (3-1/2 to 4 cups)

2 to 3 medium green onions, thinly sliced (about 1/3 cup)

2 tablespoons dry sherry

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

Pepper to taste

Directions

Separate broccoli florets so they are of small, uniform size. Peel tough stems; cut stems into 2-inch pieces.

In a large skillet or wok, heat margarine and oil over medium heat, swirling to coat bottom. Stir-fry broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, and green onions for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir in remaining ingredients.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 65; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 57 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat

CAPPUCCINO PIE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings

Source: Diabetic Dream Desserts

Book Title: Diabetic Dream Desserts

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

Ingredients

1/2 cup room temperature coffee

1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin

1/4 cup coffee liqueur

1 cup nonfat or light ricotta cheese

Sugar substitute equal to 1/3 cup sugar

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 cups nonfat or light whipped topping

1 Chocolate-Almond Piecrust (click for recipe)

1-1/2 tablespoons shaved dark chocolate

Directions

Place 2 tablespoons of the coffee in a blender. Sprinkle the gelatin over the coffee and let sit for 2 minutes.

Bring the remaining coffee to a boil and pour over the mixture in the blender. Blend for 1 minute, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly.

Add the liqueur to the blender mixture and blend to mix. Add the ricotta, sugar substitute, and cinnamon and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until the consistency of pudding. Whisk until smooth and then fold in the whipped topping.

Spread the ricotta mixture into the piecrust, swirling the top.

Sprinkle the chocolate over the top.

Cover and chill for at least 3 hours, or until set.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 208; Fat: 7 g; Fiber: 1.1 g; Sodium: 128 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Protein: 7.2 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Carbohydrate: 1-1/2 Fat

CHOCOLATE-ALMOND PIECRUST

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings

Source: Diabetic Dream Desserts

Book Title: Diabetic Dream Desserts

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

Ingredients

1/2 cup sliced almonds

2 tablespoons sugar

3/4 cup chocolate graham cracker crumbs

Sugar substitute equal to 3 tablespoons sugar

1-1/2 tablespoons melted margarine or butter

1-1/2 teaspoons fat-free egg substitute

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the almonds and sugar in a food processor and process until the almonds are finely ground. Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar substitute and process to mix well.

Add the margarine or butter and the egg substitute and process, pulsing for a few seconds at a time, until the mixture is moistened.

Coat a 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking spray and press the mixture firmly over the bottom and sides of the pan. (Place your hand inside a small plastic bag as you press to prevent sticking.)

Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool to room temperature before filling.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 109; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 89 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate, 1 Fat

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

It's the Great Pumpkin!

Tuesday is usually reserved for Taco Tuesday. But since today is Halloween, I wanted to post a few more diabetic-friendly pumpkin recipes.

I don't know about you, but one of the many things I love about this time of year is the abundance of pumpkin recipes. True, you can go to almost any grocery store and buy canned pumpkin year 'round. But autumn just says pumpkin. Pumpkin patches selling all sized pumpkins for jack-'o-lanterns, pumpkin pies for fall holidays...That said, here are six diabetic pumpkin recipes to help get you in the fall-mood, including Pumpkin Risotto and October Bisque. Enjoy!

Note: Taco Tuesday will return next week.

Pumpkins in front of Earth Fare in Seminole, Florida



PUMPKIN SOUP

Yield: 5 servings (1 cup each)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/409.shtml

Ingredients

2 teaspoons margarine

3/4 cup chopped onion

One 16-ounce can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

2 cups Homemade Chicken Broth OR canned reduced-sodium chicken broth

2 teaspoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves or ground nutmeg

1 cup fat-free milk

Directions

Melt the margarine in a medium saucepan. Saute the onion until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the pumpkin, broth, sugar, salt, and cloves; stir to mix well. Bring to a boil; reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Puree until smooth in a blender or food processor. Return to the saucepan. Add the milk; heat thoroughly but do not boil. Serve at once.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 89; Protein: 4 g; Sodium: 318 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch

OCTOBER BISQUE

Prep Time: 20 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 8 - Difficulty Level: 2

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/173.shtml

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped

4 tbsp butter

4 cups chicken broth

1 (28oz) can whole tomatoes, undrained

1 tbsp sugar

2 (16oz) cans pumpkin, or 4 cups pureed pumpkin

2 tbsp chopped, fresh parsley

2 tbsp chopped, fresh chives

Directions

Sauté onion in butter until tender. Add broth and simmer 15 minutes.

Process tomatoes in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add tomato and remaining ingredients to broth. Heat to serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 154; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 7.5 g; Sodium: 764 mg; Cholesterol: 16 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread; 1-1/2 Vegetable; 1-1/4 Fat



PUMPKIN BARS

Servings: 36 Bars

Source: Sweet Inspirations - A Sugar Free Dessert Cookbook

Author: Patti Lynch

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/163.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup margarine

1/2 cup fruit sweetener

1/2 cup mashed banana (1 medium banana)

1 egg

1/2 cup canned pumpkin

2 tsp vanilla

1-1/2 cups flour

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp each: ginger, allspice, baking soda

1/2 cup raisins

1/2 cup chopped nuts

Topping:

3 Tbsp orange juice concentrate

3 Tbsp fruit sweetener

2 tsp orange rind, freshly grated

1 tsp vanilla

Directions

Combine margarine, fruit sweetener, and mashed banana. Beat in egg, pumpkin & vanilla.

Combine dry ingredients and stir into pumpkin mixture. Add raisins and nuts. Spread into a 9 x 13-inch pan which has been sprayed with a non-stick coating.

Bake 20-25 minutes at 325 degrees, or until firm in the center.

Combine juice concentrate, 3 Tbsp fruit sweetener, orange rind and 1 tsp vanilla. Spread glaze over warm bars.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 78; Sodium: 54 mg; Cholesterol: 8 mg; Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 2/3 Bread, 1 Fat

CINNAMON PUMPKIN TORTE

Contributed by Marilyn Helton of Cinnamon Hearts

24 Servings

Source: Magic Herbs

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/152.shtml

Ingredients

Nonstick cooking spray

1 (18.25 oz) pkg low-fat yellow cake mix

1/4 cup low-fat margarine, melted

1 egg, slightly beaten (or 1/4 cup egg substitute)

1 (30-ounce) can pumpkin pie mix (with spices already added)

2 eggs, beaten (or 1/2 cup egg substitute)

2/3 cup canned evaporated skim milk

2 Tbsp sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Coat a 9 x 13-inch cake pan with cooking spray.

Set aside 1 cup of yellow cake mix for topping.

Mix margarine and one egg and add to remaining cake mix. Press slightly dry mixture into bottom of pan to form a crust.

Combine pumpkin pie mix, two eggs, and evaporated skim milk. Pour over prepared bottom crust.

Mix the reserved cake mix, sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over pumpkin filling.

Bake 40 to 45 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 163; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 256 mg; Cholesterol: 27 mg; Carbohydrates: 31 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread/Starch; 1 Vegetable



PUMPKIN RISOTTO

Yield: 2 pounds; Serves: 10

Serving Size: 3 ounces

Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/96.shtml

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/612.shtml

Ingredients

1 pint Chicken or Vegetable Stock

10-1/2 ounces diced cheese pumpkin or other turban squash

2 ounces onion, diced

2 teaspoons minced garlic

5 ounces arborio rice

2 fluid ounces dry white wine

1-1/4 ounces Romano cheese, grated

Directions

Heat the stock in a medium saucepan.

In a separate saucepan, sweat the pumpkin, onions, and garlic in a small amount of the stock until the onions are translucent. Add the rice and cook briefly.

Stirring constantly over medium to low heat, add the remaining hot stock in 3 additions, making sure the rice absorbs each addition of stock before adding the next. When properly cooked, the risotto should have a creamy texture and be firm to the bite. Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the Romano.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 80; Protein: 3 g; Sodium: 130 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1 Vegetable

PUMPKIN POLKA DOT COOKIES

Yield: Makes about 4 dozen. Serving size: 1 cookie

Source: Equal

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/879.shtml

This begins, “Chocolate chips enhance the flavor of the pumpkin and spices in these easy to make drop cookies. The hearty blend is perfectfor the end of the year holidays.”

Ingredients

1/2 cup stick butter, softened

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful*

3 tablespoons light molasses

1 cup canned pumpkin

1 egg

1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla

1-2/3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1-1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

* May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Beat butter, Equal and molasses until well combined. Mix in pumpkin, egg and vanilla until blended. Gradually stir in combined flour, baking powder, spices, baking soda and salt until well blended. Stir in chocolate chips.

Drop by teaspoonfuls onto sprayed baking sheets. Bake in preheated 350F oven 11 to 13 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove from baking sheet and cool completely on wire rack. Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 57; Protein: 1 g; Sodium: 51 mg; Cholesterol: 9 mg; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat

Monday, October 30, 2023

Halloween Recipes

Usually, Mondays are reserved for Meatless Monday. But since tomorrow is Halloween, today's post deals with Halloween food. Here are six yummy recipes, including Pumpkin Boo-kies and Spooky Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls. Enjoy!

CRANBERRY APPLE CRISP

Yield: 8 servings

Source: Equal

View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/876.shtml

Ingredients

Filling:

3 cups peeled, cored, sliced apples

2 cups fresh or frozen thawed cranberries

1 cup Equal Spoonful*

Topping:

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup chopped pecans

1/4 cup stick butter or margarine, melted

1/2 cup Equal Spoonful**

* Substitute 24 packets Equal sweetener

** Substitute 12 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Filling, combine apples, cranberries and 1 cup Equal in an ungreased 10-inch pie plate.

For Topping, combine flour, pecans, melted butter and 1/2 cup Equal. Mix until well blended. Sprinkle flour mixture over apples and cranberries in pie plate.

Bake in preheated 350F oven 55 to 60 minutes or until fruit is tender. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 145; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 67 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1-1/2 fat

SPOOKY CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BALLS

This begins, “Add some spooky details like white chocolate eyes or pretzel spider legs to make these bite-sized desserts even more perfect for a halloween celebration!”

This recipe, as well as the next one (Pumpkin Boo-kies) came from Diabetic Connect, which is now Upwellbeing. Unfortunately, I can't find a link for either one on the new site.

Ingredients

2 Cups Roasted Peanuts

8 Packets Truvia Sweetener

1/2 Cup (8 squares) Unsweetened Chocolate

5 tsp Honey

1-2 TBSP Granulated White Sugar Substitute

Directions

In a food processor, pulse the peanuts until well ground.

Add Truvia and Honey to the peanuts. Pulse again until dough becomes sticky.

Line a baking sheet or cutting board with parchment or wax paper.

Roll peanut butter dough into 1-inch balls and place on parchment/wax paper. Place in fridge for 15-20 minutes until firm

Place the chocolate squares in plastic microwave safe bowl. Melt in the microwave in short 15 second intervals until smooth.

Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar substitute to melted chocolate.

Using two spoons, cover each peanut butter ball with melted chocolate. Place back on paper and place in refrigerator for 15-20 more minutes.

Using a sharp knife, remove the excess chocolate edges from the peanut butter balls.

Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 20; Calories: 147.3; Fat: 13.2 g; Carbohydrate: 9.1 g; Dietary Fiber: 3.1 g; Sugars: 2.1 g

PUMPKIN BOO-KIES

This recipe begins, “Scared by high-carb Halloween treats? Feast on these yummy pumpkin cookies instead!”

Ingredients

1 cooking spray

2 cups sugar

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 eggs, beaten

4 cups flour, all purpose, white, bleached, enriched, baked value sifted

2 cups whole wheat flour

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

3 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

2 cups pumpkin, canned, unsalted (or thick cooked)

1 cup chopped pecans (or any other nuts)

Directions

Using an electric mixer, blend sugar and apple sauce, add eggs.

In a separate bowl, stir together flours, salt, soda, and spice.

Mix dry ingredients into creamed mixture alternately with the pumpkin. Add nuts.

Form into two logs, wrap in waxed paper, and chill thoroughly in refrigerator until dough is stiff. (This will be several hours or overnight).

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Spray baking sheets with cooking spray.

Slice dough thin, about 1/8-inch, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove promptly to cooling rack. Cookies will be thin, light, and crisp. Browning is not easily seen.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 1; Calories 43.3; Total Carbs 8.2 g; Dietary Fiber 0.7 g; Sugars 3 g; Total Fat 1 g; Saturated Fat 0.1 g; Unsaturated Fat 0.9 g; Potassium 30.4 mg; Protein 1 g; Sodium 18.9 mg

Dietary Exchanges: 1/4 Starch

GRANNY SMITH'S APPLE CRISP

This recipe begins, “A perfect warm dessert to serve a cool autumn day.”

Yield: 8 servings

Serving size: 3/4 cup crisp

Source: Splenda

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1123.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon orange zest

1/4 cup orange juice

5 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 cup uncooked old-fashioned oats

2 tablespoons Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1/2 cup crisp rice cereal

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with vegetable cooking spray. Set aside.

Make Filling: Whisk together Splenda Granulated Sweetener, cinnamon, orange zest and orange juice in a large bowl; add apples and toss to coat. Transfer mixture to prepared pan; set aside.

Make Topping: Stir together oats, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and cinnamon in a medium bowl; cut butter in with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture is crumbly. Stir in cereal and walnuts. Spoon topping over apples.

Bake 45 minutes or until topping is lightly browned. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Calories from Fat: 80; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 45 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Saturated Fat: 2.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 10 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g

CHICKEN STUFFED WITH APPLES, ALMONDS AND BLUE CHEESE

This recipe begins, “Apples, almonds and blue cheese, mixed with vibrant, fresh dill and stuffed into tender chicken breasts. You get a bounty of flavors in every bite.”

Yield: 4 servings

Source: Almond Board of California

Author: Robin Miller

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1134.shtml

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 5 ounces each)

4 ounces crumbled blue cheese (any variety, including Gorgonzola)

1/2 cup slivered almonds

1 apple (preferably Mackintosh, Gala, or Jufi), peeled, cored and diced

3 teaspoons chopped fresh dill

salt and freshly ground pepper

4 teaspoons olive oil

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon (4 teaspoons) dried minced onion (from the spice aisle)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400F.

Coat a shallow roasting pan with cooking spray.

Using a sharp paring knife, slice a pocket into each chicken breast, as if halving a bagel, without completely cutting through the other side.

Arrange chicken in prepared pan and set aside.

In medium bowl, combine blue cheese, almonds, apple, and dill. Add a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Mix together with a fork until mixture is well blended and comes together.

Divide mixture into four equal portions and spoon each portion into the pocket of the chicken. Brush olive oil all over the top of chicken and season the top with salt, black pepper and dried onion (1 teaspoon dried onion for each breast).

Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 490; Protein: 53 g; Fat: 25 g; Sodium: 867 mg; Cholesterol: 141 mg; Saturated Fat: 7.9 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

CRANBERRY-APPLE SPINACH SALAD

Yield: 4 servings

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/442.shtml

Ingredients

6 cups moderately packed fresh spinach leaves

1/4 cup light balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing or Citrus Vinaigrette

1 cup matchstick-sized pieces apple

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or toasted pecans

1/4 cup crumbled reduced-fat feta or blue cheese

Directions

Place the spinach leaves and salad dressing in a large bowl and toss to mix well. Divide the mixture between 4 salad plates.

Top the spinach on each plate with a quarter of the apples, cranberries, nuts, and cheese. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 141; Protein: 4.7 g; Sodium: 272 mg; Cholesterol: 2 mg; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Fat 8.3 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fruit, 1-1/2 Fat

Friday, October 27, 2023

Pumpkin Recipes

Tuesday is Halloween, which seems to signal the beginning of the autumn/winter food-filled holidays. Here are six pumpkin recipes to help you through the weekend including Pumpkin Risotto and Pumpkin Cheesecake in Gingersnap Crust. Enjoy!



PUMPKIN SOUP

Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.

Source: AICR

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-soup-2

Ingredients

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, divided

4 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh) (butternut squash may be substituted)

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 clove garlic

1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

2 Tbsp. light whipping cream (optional)

1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped

Nutmeg (optional)

Directions

In large pot over medium-high heat add 3 cups broth, pumpkin, onion, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring to boil. Reduce to low and simmer uncovered, about 30 minutes.

Puree mixture until smooth, in small batches, using blender or food processor. Return to pot. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes. Add remaining broth as desired. (Optional, stir in cream.)

Pour into bowls. Garnish with parsley (or sprinkle of nutmeg) and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 71; Fat: 1 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 284 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g

PUMPKIN FLAN

This recipe begins, “Nothing signals the holiday season more than pumpkin and this flan allows you to showcase it in a new, delicious way.”

Yield: 8 servings.

Serving size: 1 flan.

Source: Cheryl Forberg, R.D.

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1146.shtml

Ingredients

canola oil cooking spray

3 eggs, omega-3-enriched if available

1-1/4 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 cup maple syrup

2 Tbsp canola oil

1-1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

3/4 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground ginger

1/4 tsp ground cloves

1/4 tsp salt

1-1/2 cups low-fat milk, heated until very hot

Boiling water, about 1 quart

ground nutmeg (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Adjust oven rack to center position. Coat eight 6-ounce custard cups or ramekins with canola oil cooking spray and set them in 13 X 9-inch (33 x 22 cm) baking pan.

In large bowl, beat eggs slightly; add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, canola oil, vanilla, spices and salt. Beat with mixer until blended thoroughly. Mix in hot milk until blended. There will be about 4 cups of liquid. Pour 1/2 cup flan mixture into each prepared ramekin.

Carefully pour boiling water into baking pan around ramekins. Water should come up to level of custard inside ramekins.

Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until set around the edges but still a little loose in center. When center of flan is just set, it will jiggle a little when shaken. Remove from oven and immediately remove ramekins from water bath; cool on wire rack until room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Serve cold and garnish with ground nutmeg. This dessert can be made up to 3 days in advance. Keep refrigerated until serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 190; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 220 mg; Cholesterol: 110 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g

PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE IN GINGERSNAP CRUST

Recipe Yield: 16 servings

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-cheesecake-in-gingersnap-crust

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-cheesecake-in-gingersnap-crust/print/

Ingredients

Crust:

1-1/4 cups gingersnap crumbs

3 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted

3 tablespoons Equal Spoonful*

Cheesecake:

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

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful**

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)

2 eggs

2 egg whites

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 teaspoons vanilla

Topping:

1 cup reduced-fat sour cream

2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful***

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

* May substitute 4-1/2 packets Equal sweetener

** May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Crust, combine gingersnap crumbs, 3 tablespoons Equal and butter. Press onto bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan. Bake in preheated 325F oven 8 minutes. Cool on wire rack while preparing cheesecake.

For Cheesecake, beat cream cheese, 1-1/4 cups Equal, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Mix in pumpkin. Mix in eggs and egg whites. Mix in cornstarch and vanilla until blended.

Pour cheesecake mixture over baked crust. Bake in preheated oven 40 to 45 minutes or until center of cake is almost set. Cool on wire rack 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine sour cream, 2 tablespoons Equal and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Gently spread over top of cheesecake. Return to oven and bake 3 to 4 minutes until sour cream mixture is set. Remove cheesecake to wire rack. Gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Let cheesecake cool completely. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving. To serve, remove side of pan. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 196; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 271 mg; Cholesterol: 64 mg; Protein: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 milk, 2-1/2 fat

CINNAMON PUMPKIN TORTE

Contributed by Marilyn Helton of Cinnamon Hearts

24 Servings

Source: Magic Herbs

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/152.shtml

Ingredients

Nonstick cooking spray

1 (18.25 oz) pkg low-fat yellow cake mix

1/4 cup low-fat margarine, melted

1 egg, slightly beaten (or 1/4 cup egg substitute)

1 (30-ounce) can pumpkin pie mix (with spices already added)

2 eggs, beaten (or 1/2 cup egg substitute)

2/3 cup canned evaporated skim milk

2 Tbsp sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Coat a 9 x 13-inch cake pan with cooking spray.

Set aside 1 cup of yellow cake mix for topping.

Mix margarine and one egg and add to remaining cake mix. Press slightly dry mixture into bottom of pan to form a crust.

Combine pumpkin pie mix, two eggs, and evaporated skim milk. Pour over prepared bottom crust.

Mix the reserved cake mix, sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over pumpkin filling.

Bake 40 to 45 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 163; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 256 mg; Cholesterol: 27 mg; Carbohydrates: 31 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread/Starch; 1 Vegetable

PUMPKIN RISOTTO

Yield: 2 pounds; Serves: 10

Serving Size: 3 ounces

Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/96.shtml

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/612.shtml

Ingredients

1 pint Chicken or Vegetable Stock

10-1/2 ounces diced cheese pumpkin or other turban squash

2 ounces onion, diced

2 teaspoons minced garlic

5 ounces arborio rice

2 fluid ounces dry white wine

1-1/4 ounces Romano cheese, grated

Directions

Heat the stock in a medium saucepan.

In a separate saucepan, sweat the pumpkin, onions, and garlic in a small amount of the stock until the onions are translucent. Add the rice and cook briefly.

Stirring constantly over medium to low heat, add the remaining hot stock in 3 additions, making sure the rice absorbs each addition of stock before adding the next. When properly cooked, the risotto should have a creamy texture and be firm to the bite. Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the Romano.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 80; Protein: 3 g; Sodium: 130 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1 Vegetable

OCTOBER BISQUE

Prep Time: 20 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 8 - Difficulty Level: 2

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/173.shtml

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped

4 tbsp butter

4 cups chicken broth

1 (28oz) can whole tomatoes, undrained

1 tbsp sugar

2 (16oz) cans pumpkin, or 4 cups pureed pumpkin

2 tbsp chopped, fresh parsley

2 tbsp chopped, fresh chives

Directions

Sauté onion in butter until tender. Add broth and simmer 15 minutes.

Process tomatoes in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add tomato and remaining ingredients to broth. Heat to serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 154; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 7.5 g; Sodium: 764 mg; Cholesterol: 16 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread; 1-1/2 Vegetable; 1-1/4 Fat

Friday, October 20, 2023

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday, time to start getting ready for the weekend. Here are six recipes to help get you through the weekend, including Deep, Dark and Stout Chili and Tropical Banana-Pineapple Pie. Enjoy!

SHANGHAI WALNUT CHICKEN

Recipe Yield: Yield: Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/shanghai-walnut-chicken.

Ingredients

2 Tbsp. Hoisin sauce

1 Tbsp. reduced sodium soy sauce

1 tsp. rice vinegar

1/4 cup fat-free, reduced-sodium chicken broth

1 Tbsp. cornstarch

1/4 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1 Tbsp. peanut or canola oil, divided

3/4 lb. chicken cutlets, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 green bell pepper, cut in 1/2-inch dice

1 red bell pepper, cut in 1/2-inch dice

1 green chile pepper, thinly sliced

1 garlic clove, chopped

1 can (8 oz.) diced or sliced water chestnuts, rinsed and drained

1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

Directions

In a small bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, broth and cornstarch. Mix in the sesame oil. Set the seasoning sauce aside.

Set a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Drizzle in 2 teaspoons of the canola oil, swirling to coat the cooking surface. Stir-fry the chicken until it is white. Turn it out onto a plate.

Add the remaining oil to the pan. Stir-fry the green, red, and chile peppers, and the garlic, for 2 minutes. Return the chicken to the pan. Add the water chestnuts and walnuts. Restir the seasoning sauce and add. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through. Serve immediately, along with cooked rice, preferably brown.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 247; Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Fiber: 5 g; Sodium: 378 mg; Protein: 22 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Medium-Fat Meat, 2 Vegetable

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

TROPICAL BANANA-PINEAPPLE PIE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 10 servings

Source: Equal

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Equal.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/tropical-banana-pineapple-pie.

Ingredients

Pastry for single crust 9-inch pie

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

1/2 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

1 container (8 oz.) light whipped topping, thawed if frozen

1 can (8 oz.) crushed pineapple, well drained

1/4 cup flaked coconut, divided

1/2 teaspoon rum extract

2 medium ripe bananas, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices

1 tablespoon chopped pecans

* May substitute 12 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Preheat oven to 375F.

Roll pastry on floured surface into circle 1 inch larger than inverted 9-inch pie plate. Ease pastry into plate; trim and flute edge. Pierce side and bottom of pastry with tines of a fork.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely on wire rack.

Meanwhile, beat cream cheese and Equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Gradually mix in whipped topping, pineapple, 3 tablespoons coconut and rum extract.

Place half of cream cheese mixture over pie crust. Arrange banana slices in single layer. Top with remaining cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle top of pie with remaining 1 tablespoon coconut and chopped pecans.

Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 272; Fat: 16 g; Sodium: 199 mg; Cholesterol: 29 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fruit, 3 fat

GRILL PAN CHICKEN WITH FIERY MANGO-GINGER SALSA

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings; Serving size: 1 chicken breast and 1/4 cup salsa

Source: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil

Book Title: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/grill-pan-chicken-with-fiery-mango-ginger-salsa.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 teaspoon curry powder

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each), rinsed, patted dry and flattened to 1/2-inch thickness

Canola oil cooking spray

1 lemon, cut into quarters

Salsa

1 cup finely chopped mango

2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion

1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon canola oil

Directions

Combine 1 tablespoon canola oil, curry powder, sugar, pepper and salt. Brush over chicken and let marinate for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, stir together salsa ingredients in a small bowl.

Coat a grill pan with canola oil cooking spray and place over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken, discarding any marinade. Cook chicken 4 minutes on each side or until no longer pink inside and juices run clear. Transfer to a serving platter. Squeeze lemon juice over chicken; serve with salsa.

Notes:

This dish offers a medley for flavours. Using salsa in place of more salt lowers the sodium content and boosts taste!

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 175 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Protein: 25 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat

DEEP, DARK AND STOUT CHILI

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings. Serving size: 1-1/3 cups (325 mL) chili.

Source: CanolaInfo

Recipe and image appear courtesy of CanolaInfo.org.

You can 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.

Notes:

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

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

MEATLESS TEX-MEX SLOPPY JOES

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Meatless Mondays just got a new star recipe. Impossible™ Burger is made from plants and makes this vegetarian sloppy joe recipe a delicious new addition to your meatless repertoire. These Meatless Tex-Mex Sloppy Joes use Old El Paso™ Mild Taco Sauce and Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix. Meatless sloppy joes are as fast and easy as the original, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/meatless-tex-mex-sloppy-joes.

Ingredients

1 package (12 oz) Impossible™ Burger

2/3 cup water

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

1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Mild Taco Sauce (from 9-oz bottle)

4 burger buns, toasted

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (from 8-oz package)

1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce

1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced

1/2 cup chopped tomatoes

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook Impossible™ Burger over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until crumbles are browned and cooked through.

Stir water, taco seasoning mix and taco sauce into Impossible™ Burger mixture; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Place about 1/2 cup mixture over bottom of each bun; top with cheese, lettuce, avocado and tomatoes, then top of bun.

Expert Tips

Cooking Vegetarian? Always read labels to make sure each recipe ingredient is vegetarian. Products and ingredient sources can change.

Old El Paso™ Mild Taco Sauce plays the role that tomato sauce would play in a traditional sloppy joe recipe, with the added benefit of loads of taco flavor for these vegetarian sloppy joes.

We call for Old El Paso™ Mild Taco Sauce in this recipe, but if you’d prefer a bit more heat in your meatless sloppy joes, feel free to substitute Old El Paso™ Medium Taco Sauce.

Buying a whole head of lettuce and slicing it thinly yourself, as opposed to buying it preshredded in a bag, will help to guarantee a fresh, extra-crisp topping for your sloppy joes.

Nutrition: 1 Sandwich: Calories: 500 (Calories from Fat: 230); Total Fat: 26g (Saturated Fat 12g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 30mg; Sodium 1240mg; Total Carbohydrate 41g (Dietary Fiber 6g, Sugars 7g); Protein 25g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 8%; Vitamin C 6%; Calcium 40%; Iron 35%

Exchanges: 1 1/2 Starch, 1 Other Carbohydrate, 2 1/2 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 4 Fat

Carbohydrate Choices: 3

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Soup's On!

When the weather starts to turn cooler (or outright cold), there's something comforting about homemade soup. Here are six diabetic-friendly soups to help you through the day, including Slow-Cooker Vegetable Minestrone Soup and Goulash Soup. Enjoy!

HEARTY REUBEN SOUP

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/hearty-reuben-soup.

Ingredients

1/2 cup canned low-sodium beef broth

1/2 cup canned low-sodium chicken broth

1/4 cup chopped celery

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 cups fat-free evaporated milk or half-and-half cream

1 cup shredded corned beef

3/4 cup canned sauerkraut

1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Bring beef and chicken broths, celery, onion and green pepper to a boil in a heavy saucepan; reduce heat. Simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Dissolve the cornstarch in the milk. Stir into soup and simmer until soup thickens.

Add corned beef and sauerkraut; heat through.

Stir in cheese just until melted. Do not allow to boil; season with pepper.

Notes:

A popular sandwich inspires a great soup! Start with the convenience of canned broth from your pantry. Then blend in the flavors of canned sauerkraut corned beef onion, bell pepper and celery, and then Swiss cheese to make this soup a family favorite.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 190; Fat: 4.5 g; Saturated Fat: 4.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 500 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Protein: 17 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

HEARTY MUSHROOM BARLEY SOUP

Recipe Yield: Prep Time: 25 Minutes - Cost: $; Servings: 8 - Difficulty Level: 2

Source: Suzi Castle's Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods

Book Title: Suzi Castle's Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/hearty-mushroom-barley-soup

Ingredients

2 cups each: low-sodium chicken broth & water

1/2 cup barley

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 onion, chopped

1/2 pound mushrooms, thickly sliced

1/8 tsp pepper

5 ounces frozen peas

8 ounces cooked chicken breast, cubed

1 can (10-3/4oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup

1/2 cup nonfat milk

Directions

In a covered pan, simmer chicken broth, water, and barley for 30 minutes.

Add carrots, celery, onion, mushrooms, and pepper. Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Add peas, chicken, soup, and milk. Simmer for 5 minutes longer.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 195; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 385 mg; Cholesterol: 24 mg; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat, 1-1/2 bread

VEGETARIAN HOT AND SOUR SOUP

Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings.Serving size: 1 cup

Source: CanolaInfo

Recipe and image appear courtesy of CanolaInfo.org.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/vegetarian-hot-and-sour-soup.

Ingredients

4 dried Chinese black (shiitake) mushrooms

hot water

2 tsp canola oil

1 carrot, peeled and julienned

5 cups vegetable broth

1/4 cup canned bamboo shoots, drained, julienned

3 Tbsp cornstarch, dissolved in 1/4 cup cold water

3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

1/3 cup rice vinegar

3/4 tsp ground white pepper

6 oz savory baked or firm tofu, julienned

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced

Directions

In small bowl, soak dried mushrooms in hot water for 20 minutes or until softened. Cut off stems and any hard areas and discard. Cut caps into thin slices. Set aside.

In stock pot, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and carrots and cook 2 minutes or until carrots are just soft. Add vegetable broth and bamboo shoots and bring to a boil. Add cornstarch mixture and stir until soup thickens, about 2 minutes. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar and white pepper. Stir.

Add tofu and bring soup back to a boil. While stirring soup in circular motion in one direction, pour eggs in thin stream into soup.

Remove soup from heat. Stir in green onions. Taste and adjust flavour with rice vinegar and white pepper. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 80; Fat: 3.5 g; Fiber: 2 g; Sodium: 450 mg; Cholesterol: 55 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g

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

SLOW-COOKER VEGETABLE MINESTRONE SOUP

This is from EatingWell (originally from Diabetic Living Magazine, Winter 2019), and begins, "A winter classic, this crock pot version of minestrone is heavy on the vegetables and light on the pasta, keeping carbs in check while providing plenty of flavor."

Active Time: 30 mins; Total Time: 6 hrs 30 mins; Servings: 8; Serving Size: 2 cups soup and 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese

To view this online, go to https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/269114/slow-cooker-vegetable-minestrone-soup/.

Ingredients

4 large carrots, peeled and chopped

3 stalks celery, chopped

1 small red onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

2 (15 ounce) cans no-sodium-added red kidney beans, rinsed

2 (15 ounce) cans no-sodium-added diced tomatoes, undrained

6 cups no-sodium-added vegetable broth, such as Kitchen Basics

2 tablespoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper

3/4 teaspoon salt, divided

1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

1 large zucchini, chopped

4 ounces whole-wheat pasta elbows or other small pasta (about 1 cup)

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Combine carrots, celery, onion, garlic, green beans, kidney beans, tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper in a 6- to 8-qt. slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours.

Stir in zucchini, pasta, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cover and cook on Low until the pasta is tender, 15 to 20 minutes more. Serve immediately, topping each serving with about 1-1/2 tablespoons Parmesan.

GOULASH SOUP

Goulash and soup? Sure, why not! It’s also diabetic-friendly.

Recipe Yield: Servings: 6

Source: Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods Cookbook

Book Title: Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods Cookbook

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/goulash-soup

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 pound lean round steak, cut into 1/2" cubes

4 cups water

1 beef bouillon cube

1-2 tablespoons paprika

1/2 teaspoon Morton Lite Salt Mixture

2 ounces tomato paste (or substitute 1 peeled tomato, cut up)

1 medium potato, peeled and diced

Directions

In a large, heavy soup pot sprayed with non-stick spray, stir-fry onion and garlic until golden brown. Remove from pot and set aside. Re-spray pot with non-stick spray and brown beef cubes over medium-high heat.

Add cooked onion and garlic to pot. Add water, bouillon cube, paprika, Morton Lite Salt Mixture and tomato paste or tomato. Cover and simmer for 4 hours. Add potato and simmer for 15 minutes longer.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 91; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 290 mg; Cholesterol: 23.4 mg; Protein: 10 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g

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