Friday, January 21, 2011

Shrimp in Yogurt sauce

The shrimp marinated in yogurt, coriander and ginger was a big success. Just a hint of heat, a little sour zest from the Greek yogurt, all in a creamy sauce that doubled nicely as a dipping sauce. Served along side fresh snap peas sauteed in olive oil and tossed with toasted almond slivers and sea salt, and a five grain mix from Trader Joe's, it was both exotic and comforting, perfect for an ultra cold Minnesota January night. 

Alas, no pictures to share, thanks to a few technical glitches, so you'll have to trust me. It was as pretty as it was delicious. 

Yogurt Marinade with Ginger and Coriander
(from The New American Plate Cookbook) 

1 1/2 cups plain, low-fat yogurt (I used non-fat Greek yogurt)
2 Tbsp lemon juice 
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (I used a bit less)
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground turmeric
2 tsp minced ginger
salt to taste

In a blender or food processor, blend all ingredients at low speed until well blended. Divide the mixture in half. Place half the mixture in a nonmetal dish. Add food to be marinaded (I used half pound of shrimp) and place in refrigerator for up to an 1 hour, occasionally turning the food. 

I grilled marinated shrimp in a grill pan without oil until pink and slightly charred, about 8 minutes. They were cooked perfectly thanks to the moisture from the marinade. 

The rest of the mixture can be used as dip for grilled food and sides. 

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Chocolate Mousse Cupcakes

For Christmas, my friend Tracy gave me a lovely book called Cupcakes Galore. This was not only a thoughtful gift, considering my new love for baking, but also a timely one, since I volunteered...ok, pushed my way into... making cupcakes for our beloved Elliot's second birthday.  I chose to make Chocolate Mousse cupcakes for Elliot, since he loves chocolate. I've also made the Yeti cupcakes out of this book for New Year's Eve, and both have been successful. Next I am making the Yeti (or marshmallow) cupcakes for our beautiful friend Josie's 10th birthday, topped with white chocolate cream cheese frosting. Stay tuned to see how those worked out.

Here are a couple of shots of Drovi's snow-themed cupcakes. Happy birthday sweet boy!