Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars - Rhubarb Strawberry Pie - Rhubarb Apple Crunch - Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce - Rhubarb Lemon Scones - Rhubarb Cinnamon Bread - Rhubarb Bread

 

Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

Don’t know what it’s been about this summer’s weather, but our rhubarb plants just won’t stop producing.
No problem - there are dozens of great rhubarb recipes.
Really, there’s something for every occasion and taste.

Fresh rhubarb always works best. If you use frozen just thaw and drain well before using in these recipes, including the pie.

If you don’t have buttermilk add one tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to one cup milk and let it sit for five minutes.


The Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars, as well as the scones and breads, can be kept in a sealed container and stored at room temperature for three days or in the fridge for up to five days.
You can wrap the slices individually, or the loaf as is, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
 For best texture slightly warm slices before serving.


Hints:

About the Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars…
You can replace 1/2 Cups chopped rhubarb with 1/2 Cups chopped strawberries (fresh or frozen). For a bit of crunch add 1/3 Cup finely chopped pecans to the crumble.


About the Rhubarb Strawberry Pie…
The pie filling can also be served as a topping over a pudding or ice cream, or as a filling for crêpes or pancakes. It can also be combined with plain yogurt for a refreshing snack.

You can store the filling in the refrigerator for a day or two before assembling your pie.
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
The cooled filling can be frozen for up to three months.
Upon defrosting, bring it back to room temperature before using it.


About the Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce…
You can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

The sauce stores well at room temperature for up to three days. Stored in the refrigerator it will need to be warmed in a small saucepan or microwave until pourable.

This cake recipe works with other fruits throughout the year.
In fall use diced apples or pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
In summer substitute the same amount of blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries.
Juicier fruits, such as berries, require an extra tablespoon or two of flour to absorb the excess moisture.

The cake, when stored in an airtight container, keeps at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate for up to a week, though the texture is best the first few days. Gently reheat leftover cake portions in the microwave for about 20 seconds.


About the Rhubarb Lemon Scones…
To make Rhubarb Orange Scones reduce the chopped rhubarb to 1/2 cup, and replace the heavy cream and lemon extract with milk and orange extract.


About the Rhubarb Bread…
For a sweeter taste, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the batter.
 You could also fold in 1/2 cup diced strawberries with the rhubarb.
 For a tarter taste add 1 teaspoon lemon extract to the batter and a lemon glaze after the bread has cooled.

Lemon Glaze
Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 to 2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon lemon extract
Whisk together until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled bread.

Or you could dust the top lightly with confectioners’ sugar for a simple finish.


                                                               Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

Grease an 8 inch square baking pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
3 Cups fresh rhubarb

For the Rhubarb Filling:
Place in a saucepan
the prepared rhubarb
1/2 Cup sugar
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
2 Tablespoons water
Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens, 5 to 7 minutes.
Set aside and let it cool.

For the Crumble:
Melt
1/2 Cup butter

Place in a bowl
1 Cup flour
1 Cup old-fashioned oats
3/4 Cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Stir together to combine.
Add the melted butter.
Stir in until it’s crumbly and well mixed.
Press half the mixture into the bottom of your pan and set the rest aside.
Bake for 10 minutes and remove from oven.

For the Cheesecake Layer:
Place in a medium mixer bowl
16 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 Cup sugar
Beat until well combined.
Add
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
Beat until smooth.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Pour the cheesecake layer over the baked crust.
Spoon the rhubarb filling over the cheesecake.
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the topping is golden and the centre is set.
Cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing.
For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.

                                                               Rhubarb Strawberry Pie

Have on hand
1 unbaked pie shell

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
3 Cups fresh rhubarb
Chop
2 3/4 Cups strawberries
Place the fruit in a large bowl. Stir to combine.

Place in a medium bowl
1/3 Cup sugar
1/3 Cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 Cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
Whisk together, pour over the fruit and gently toss to coat.
Drizzle over the mixture
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
Stir to combine well.
Allow the filling to sit for 15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400° F

Pour the filling into the pie shell and smooth the top.
Dot with
1 Tablespoon salted butter, cut into 1/4 inch pieces.

Bake on the centre oven rack for 30 minutes.

While the pie is baking, make the topping:
Place in a medium bowl
3/4 Cup flour
1/2 Cup sugar
1/2 Cup sweetened flaked coconut
1/4 Cup ground almonds
1/4 teaspoon salt
Stir to combine.
Add
5 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter
Rub the ingredients between your fingers until the texture is uniform.

After the pie has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the topping over the fruit.
Bake the pie for 25 to 35 minutes more, until the topping is golden brown.
Transfer the pie to a rack and cool at least 1 hour.
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.


                                                               Rhubarb Apple Crunch

Lightly grease and flour a 9 inch square baking pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Thinly slice
2 Cups apples

Place in a medium saucepan
3/4 Cup sugar
3/4 Cup water
2 Tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla
Cook, stirring constantly, until thick.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Melt
1/2 Cup butter or margarine

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large bowl
1 Cup flour
3/4 Cup old-fashioned oats
1 Cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
the melted butter or margarine
Mix together and press half of the mixture into the bottom of prepared pan.
Arrange the rhubarb and apples evenly on top.
Pour the sugar sauce over the rhubarb and apples.
Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the sauced fruit.
Bake for 1 hour.
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.


                                                               Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Grease and flour a 9 x 13 inch baking pan.

For the Cake:
Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium bowl
2 Cups flour
1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Whisk together and set aside.

Place in a large mixer bowl
1 Cup sugar
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
Cream together until light and fluffy.
Add, one at a time
2 large eggs
Beat well after each addition.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350° F

Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions add the flour mixture alternately with
1 Cup buttermilk
Mix until just combined. Avoid over mixing. The cake batter will seem thick.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes.

While the cake is cooling, make the Butter Sauce
Place in a small saucepan
1/2 Cup unsalted butter
Melt over medium heat.
Add
1/2 to 3/4 Cup brown sugar, packed
Pinch of salt
Stir until dissolved.
Slowly whisk in
1/4 Cup heavy cream (or half-and-half, or whole milk)
Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes, until thickened slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla

Cut the cake into squares.
Pour warm butter sauce generously over each piece before serving.


                                                               Rhubarb Lemon Scones

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

Place in a large bowl
2 Cups flour
1/4 Cup sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Add
1/2 Cup cold butter
Cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly.
Gently stir in the chopped rhubarb.

Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup heavy cream
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon lemon extract
Whisk together and pour into dry ingredients.
Gently stir until just combined. Do not over mix.

Preheat oven to 400° F

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape into a 1 inch thick circle.
Cut into 8 wedges and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush tops with cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar. (optional)
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove and let cool slightly before serving.


                                                               Rhubarb Cinnamon Bread

Lightly grease and flour a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan.

For the Cinnamon Swirl:
Place in a small bowl
2 Tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Stir to combine and set aside.

For the Bread:
Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Stir to combine and set aside.

Melt
1/2 Cup unsalted butter

Place in a large mixing bowl
1 Cup sugar
the melted butter
Stir until well blended.
Beat in, one at a time
2 large eggs
Add
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 Cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
Beat until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. 
Do not over mix.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb until evenly distributed.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan and smooth it out.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
Add the remaining batter on top and smooth its surface.

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with foil.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Remove the bread from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Glaze:
Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 to 2 teaspoon milk or lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Whisk together until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled bread.


                                                               Rhubarb Bread

Lightly grease and flour a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a large mixing bowl and add
1 1/2 Cups sugar
Let sit for 15 minutes.

While the rhubarb is sitting, place in a medium bowl
2 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
Stir to combine and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350° F

After the rhubarb has sat for 15 minutes add to it
1/2 Cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 Cup buttermilk
Mix well until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not over mix.
Fold in
1/2 Cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Remove the bread from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve with butter or cream cheese, or toasted with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Rhubarb Muffins — Rhubarb Muffins Delight — Buttermilk Rhubarb Muffins — Rhubarb Crumb Muffins — Rhubarb Crumble Muffin — Rhubarb Donut Muffins with Lemon Glaze — Rhubarb Almond Muffins — Rhubarb Muffins with Greek Yogurt — Rhubarb Ruckus Muffins — Strawberry Rhubarb Muffins

Buttermilk Rhubarb Muffin

You can’t go wrong when you bake muffins.
Think about it.
Paired with yogurt and fruit they can be served for breakfast, or plain with a bowl of soup, or as a great dessert with cheese or fruit.
And they’re so quick and easy to make.
As we still have rhubarb in our gardens, why not use some to make a batch of muffins?
Rhubarb muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day snack.


These recipes work best with fresh rhubarb.
If you’re new at using fresh rhubarb, don’t panic.
About 2 to 3 stalks will give you 1 1/2 cups diced rhubarb.
A little more or less will be just fine.

Fresh rhubarb can be chopped and refrigerated or frozen for future recipes.
Frozen rhubarb gets soft and watery. If you’re using frozen rhubarb just thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it to prevent the excess moisture from affecting the recipe.

When ready to bake, be sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results, especially the eggs and milk.
If you don’t have buttermilk just add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to 1 cup milk, stir and use.

Muffin batter should be slightly lumpy. Do not over mix, or your muffins will be dense.
Stop mixing as soon as the flour is blended. Don’t worry about a streak of flour.

Each muffin cup should be about two-thirds to three-quarters full.

Be sure you have a properly preheated oven to get muffin tops with a golden crust.
Rotate the pan halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.

The tops should be golden and a toothpick inserted into the centre of a muffin should come out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then remove them and place them on a wire rack to finish cooling.

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap or foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container to freeze for up to three months.
Microwave a refrigerated or thawed muffin for 15 to 20 seconds.
For a crispier top, reheat in a toaster oven at 325°F for 5 to 8 minutes.


You’ll find more rhubarb recipes in these posts:

https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/07/lemon-rhubarb-loaf-with-glaze-rhubarb.html

https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/06/sour-cream-rhubarb-coffee-cake-sour.html


The ‘Buy Canadian / Avoid American’ lists of companies is here
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/02/buy-canadian.html

Hints:

About the Rhubarb Muffins…
You can add about 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients.
For less tart muffins, replace half the rhubarb with chopped strawberries.
You can also fold in 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
You can double the topping recipe or replace the topping with a confectioners’ sugar glaze.
Rhubarb Muffins can be frozen.
Serve warm, at room temperature, or reheated briefly with butter, a drizzle of honey, or as is, with coffee or tea.


About the Rhubarb Muffins Delight…
For sweeter muffins you can add an additional 1/4 cup of sugar.
For a healthier option substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour.


About the Rhubarb Crumble Muffin…
These muffins only require one bowl and freeze really well.


About the Rhubarb Donut Muffins with Lemon Glaze…
Adjust the thickness of the glaze by adding more sugar for a thicker glaze or more juice for a thinner drizzle.


                                       Rhubarb Muffins

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by either lining with paper muffin liners or greasing lightly.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

For the crumb topping place in a small bowl
3 Tablespoons sugar
2 Tablespoons flour
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix together, then add
2 Tablespoons cold butter, cubed
Use a fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until you have coarse crumbs.
Set  aside.

Preheat oven to 400° F

Place in a large bowl
1 3/4 Cups flour
1/2 Cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Stir lightly to combine.

Place in a medium bowl
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 Cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
1/4 Cup oil (use a neutral oil, like canola)
1 teaspoon vanilla
Whisk together until the mixture is smooth.
Fold in the chopped rhubarb and stir to coat.
Pour the rhubarb mixture into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Top each muffin with a generous spoonful of the crumb mixture. Just let it rest lightly on top.
Bake the muffins for 18 to 20 minutes.


                                       Rhubarb Muffins Delight

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by either lining with paper muffin liners or greasing lightly.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a medium bowl
2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Stir lightly to combine.

Place in a large mixer bowl
1 Cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Cream together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add, one at a time
2 large eggs
Mix well after each addition.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla

Making 3 dry and 2 wet additions add the dry ingredients alternately with
1 Cup buttermilk
Stir until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb with 1/4 Cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional).
Stir gently until just combined.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Bake the muffins for 18 to 22 minutes.

                                       Buttermilk Rhubarb Muffins

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by either lining with paper muffin liners or greasing lightly.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Preheat oven to 375° F

Place in a large mixing bowl
2 Cups flour
1 Cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Stir lightly to combine.

Place in a medium bowl
1 Cup buttermilk
1/3 Cup oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
Whisk together until the mixture is smooth.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb with 1/2 Cup chopped walnuts (optional).
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Bake the muffins for 20 to 25 minutes.


                                       Rhubarb Crumb Muffins

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining with paper muffin liners.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

For the crumb topping place in a small bowl
1/4 Cup flour
2 Tablespoons cold butter, cubed
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
Use a fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until you have coarse crumbs.
Set  aside.

Preheat oven to 375º F

Place in a large bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1/2 Cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Stir lightly to combine.

Place in a medium bowl
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 Cup milk
1/3 Cup oil
Whisk together until the mixture is smooth.
Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined.
Fold in the chopped rhubarb.
 
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Top each muffin with a generous spoonful of the crumb mixture. Just let it rest on top.
Bake the muffins for 18 to 22 minutes.


                                       Rhubarb Crumble Muffin

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining with paper muffin liners.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

For the crumb topping place in a small bowl
1/4 Cup flour
2 Tablespoons cold butter, cubed
2 Tablespoons sugar
Use a fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until you have coarse crumbs.
Set  aside.

Preheat oven to 375º F

Place in a large bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1/2 Cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Stir lightly to combine.
Stir in
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 Cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
1/3 Cup butter, melted
Stir gently until just combined.
Fold in the chopped rhubarb.
 
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Top each muffin with a generous spoonful of the crumb mixture. Just let it rest on top.
Bake the muffins for 18 to 22 minutes.


                                       Rhubarb Donut Muffins with Lemon Glaze

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by either lining with paper muffin liners or greasing it lightly.

Place in a medium bowl
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 Cup buttermilk
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
Whisk together until the mixture is smooth.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Preheat oven to 375° F

Place in a large bowl
2 Cups flour
3/4 Cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Stir lightly to combine and aerate the flour.
Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined.
Fold in the chopped rhubarb.

Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Top each muffin with a generous spoonful of the crumb mixture. Just let it rest lightly on top.
Bake the muffins for 18 to 20 minutes. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

For the glaze, place in a small bowl
1 Cup confectioners’ sugar
2 to 3 Tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Whisk together until the mixture is smooth. Adjust thickness if needed.
Dip the tops of the muffins into the thickened glaze or drizzle the thinner glaze over the tops.
Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.


                                       Rhubarb Almond Muffins

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining with paper muffin liners.

Place in a medium bowl
1/4 Cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1/2 Cup milk
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon almond extract
Whisk together until the mixture is smooth.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Preheat oven to 375° F

Place in a large bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1/2 Cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Stir lightly to combine.
Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined.
Fold in the chopped rhubarb.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Bake the muffins for 20 to 25 minutes.


                                       Rhubarb Muffins with Greek Yogurt

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by either lining with paper muffin liners or greasing lightly.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

For the topping place in a small bowl
2 Tablespoons coarse sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat oven to 375° F

Place in a medium bowl
1 3/4 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Stir lightly to combine.

Place in a large mixer bowl
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 Cup brown sugar
Cream together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add, one at a time
2 large eggs
Mix well after each addition.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla

Making 3 dry and 2 wet additions add the dry ingredients alternately with
1 Cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
Stir until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb.
Stir gently until just combined.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Sprinkle the topping over the tops.
Bake the muffins for 20 to 25 minutes.


                                       Rhubarb Ruckus Muffins

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by either lining with paper muffin liners or greasing lightly.

Preheat oven to 350º F

Melt and slightly cool
1/2 Cup unsalted butter

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces and place in a large bowl
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb
Add
2 Cups flour
Toss until well combined.
Add
3/4 Cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/2 Cup whole milk
the melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
Stir gently until just combined.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Top each muffin with a generous spoonful of the crumb mixture. Just let it rest on top.
Bake the muffins for 18 to 20 minutes. 


                                       Strawberry Rhubarb Muffins

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining with paper muffin liners.

Cut into 1/4 inch pieces and place in a medium bowl
1 Cup fresh rhubarb
Add
1 Cup sliced strawberries
1/2 Cup sugar
Toss to coat the fruit. Let the fruit sit for 10 minutes.

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Stir lightly to combine.

Preheat oven to 375° F

Place in a large mixer bowl
1/4 Cup brown sugar
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
Cream together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add, one at a time
2 large eggs
Mix well after each addition.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla

Making 3 dry and 2 wet additions add the dry ingredients alternately with
1/2 Cup buttermilk
Stir until just combined.
Gently fold in the sugared rhubarb and strawberries.
Stir gently until just combined.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups.
Bake the muffins for 20 to 25 minutes.

Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze, Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake, Rhubarb Crisp, Rhubarb Scones, Rhubarb Buckle, Rhubarb Cloud Pie, Rhubarb Fool and Rhubarb Grunt

 

Boycotting of American products is still going strong in Canada.
There’s a public group on FaceBook called ‘Made in Canada - Canadian Products’ that has regular updates on what to buy and what to avoid.
It currently has 1,388,351 members and the number is steadily growing.
It also has information on Canadian businesses, Canadian manufacturers of various products, as well as Canadian drink and food producers.
Why not give the group a visit?


A week ago I posted a few rhubarb recipes.
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/06/sour-cream-rhubarb-coffee-cake-sour.html

I really didn’t even scratch the surface of how you can prepare rhubarb.
Here are a few more old favourite recipes.
We’re still having a hot summer, so I included a couple of recipes that don’t need the oven.

These recipes work best with fresh rhubarb.
If you’re new at using fresh rhubarb, don’t panic.
About 2 to 3 stalks will give you 1 1/2 cups diced rhubarb.
A little more or less will be just fine.

Fresh rhubarb can be chopped and refrigerated or frozen for future recipes.
Frozen rhubarb gets soft and watery.
If you use frozen rhubarb just thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it to prevent the excess moisture from affecting the recipe.

The ‘Buy Canadian / Avoid American’ lists of companies is here
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/02/buy-canadian.html


Hints:

Most of these recipes can be served warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

About the Rhubarb Crisp…
It can be kept at room temperature for a short time. For longer storage, refrigerate.

To make Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp use 3 cups strawberries and 3 cups rhubarb and increase the flour in the filling to 1/3 cup.


About the Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze…
You can replace the sour cream with buttermilk or Greek yogurt.
For added texture fold in chopped walnuts or pecans.
Don’t have rhubarb? Prepare with chopped strawberries or cranberries.

At room temperature, store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay good for up to two days.
You can refrigerate the loaf in a sealed container for up to five days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for best flavour.

To freeze, wrap individual slices, or the entire loaf, in plastic wrap and then wrap in foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag to store for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature.


About the Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake…
You could also use granulated sugar with the rhubarb.


About the Rhubarb Buckle…
If you want a sweeter buckle you can add more sugar to the rhubarb.
For a fruitier buckle add chopped strawberries.


About the Rhubarb Cloud Pie…
You can add a touch of cinnamon to the rhubarb filling for extra flavour.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers before serving.


About the Rhubarb Fool…
If you have extra cooked rhubarb you can use some to top the servings.
You could also top with berries, whipped cream or crushed cookies.


                                                               Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze

Grease and flour a 9 × 5 inch loaf pan.

Dice
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Combine in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixer bowl
1/2 Cup butter, softened
1 Cup sugar
Cream together until light and fluffy.
Beat in, one at a time
2 large eggs
Add
1/4 Cup lemon juice
1 Tablespoon lemon zest or 1 teaspoon lemon extract
Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions, add the flour mixture alternately with
1/2 Cup sour cream or yogurt
Stir until just combined, then gently fold in the diced rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Be sure it is at room temperature. If it’s too warm the glaze will just be absorbed.
 
To make the glaze, place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 to 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
Whisk together until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf.
Slice and serve.


                                                               Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake

Generously grease an 9 inch round cake pan.

Cut into 1 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Arrange the rhubarb evenly in the prepared pan.
Sprinkle over the rhubarb
1/2 Cup brown sugar
Dot with
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk together.

Place in a measuring cup
1/2 Cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixer bowl
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 Cup sugar
Cream until light and fluffy.
Add one at a time
2 large eggs
Beat well.
Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions, add the flour mixture alternately with the milk mixture.
Pour the batter over the rhubarb in the pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Let cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a plate.
Serve warm or chilled.


                                                               Rhubarb Crisp

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
6 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a 2 quart baking dish.

Combine in a medium bowl
2/3 Cup sugar, either granulated or brown
3 Tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Sprinkle over fruit in baking dish.

Preheat oven to 375° F

Combine in the same medium bowl
3/4 Cup rolled oats
3/4 Cup brown sugar, packed
1/3 Cup flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 Cup butter, softened
1/3 Cup coconut shredded, optional
Combine with a fork or pastry cutter.
Sprinkle over the rhubarb in the baking dish.
Bake for 35 minutes, or until rhubarb is tender and topping is golden.
Cool 10 minutes before serving.


                                                               Rhubarb Scones

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Finely chop
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup sour cream or plain yogurt
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 400° F

Place in a large bowl
2 Cups flour
1/3 Cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Whisk together, then add
1/2 Cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the liquid ingredients, and stir just until combined.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb. The dough will be slightly sticky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Shape into a circle about 3/4 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges.
Transfer the wedges to the lined baking sheet.
Brush the tops with milk or cream and sprinkle sugar over tops, if desired.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Enjoy warm, plain or with a pat of butter.


                                                               Rhubarb Buckle

Lightly grease an 9 inch square baking pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a medium bowl and add
1/4 Cup sugar
Toss the rhubarb and sugar and set aside.

For the Crumb Topping
Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup sugar
1/3 Cup flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Whisk together, then add
1/4 Cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Cut butter in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles pea-sized coarse crumbs and set aside.

Place in a medium bowl
2 Cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Whisk together and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixing bowl
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
1 Cup sugar
Cream together until light and fluffy.
Add
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
Beat well.
Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions, add the flour mixture alternately with
1/2 Cup milk
Gently fold in the sugared rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes.
Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.


                                                               Rhubarb Cloud Pie

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 Cup sugar
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, melted
Stir to combine well, then pour into a 9 inch pie pan.
Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
Put the pan in the refrigerator.

Place in a medium saucepan
the chopped rhubarb
1/2 Cup sugar
2 Tablespoons water
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
Stirring occasionally, cook over medium heat until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Remove saucepan from heat and allow rhubarb to cool completely.

Place in a large mixing bowl
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Beat until smooth.
Gently fold in until fully combined
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping

Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
Spoon the cooled rhubarb filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture and spread gently to cover.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set. Serve chilled.


                                                               Rhubarb Fool

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a medium saucepan and add
1/2 Cup sugar (adjust to taste)
Stirring occasionally, cook over medium heat until rhubarb softens, about 15 minutes.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or lemon zest
Set aside and let cool completely.

Place in a medium mixing bowl
1 Cup heavy cream
1 to 2 Tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Beat until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the cooled rhubarb compote into the whipped cream.
Spoon into glasses or bowls.
Chill for at least 30 minutes, and serve cold.


                                                               Rhubarb Grunt

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
3 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place pieces in a dutch oven and add
1/2 Cup sugar
1/4 Cup water
Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.

While the rhubarb is simmering, place in a medium bowl
1 Cup flour
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk together to combine.

Place in a measuring cup
1/3 Cup milk
2 Tablespoons oil or 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
Pour over flour mixture and stir together just enough to combine.
Drop dumpling dough by spoonfuls onto fruit.
Cover tightly and simmer for 20 minutes.
Serve warm with cream.

Sour Cream Rhubarb Coffee Cake, Sour Cream Rhubarb Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping, Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars, Rhubarb Shortbread Bars and Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze

 

Goodness! the year 2025 is half over!
Winnipeg, as well as many other parts of the world, are having a hot, dry summer.
Well, we can handle the weather, whatever it is.

The Tariff War is still dragging on, and changing by the hour.
Well, we can handle that, too.
It’s not hard to do.
Actually it’s quite nice becoming more familiar with items our neighbouring provinces' produce.

We’re still boycotting American products, especially in our grocery stores.
I guess the produce orders were made before Trump came into office.
The fruit and vegetables look so sad, immediately marked down to half price.
They’re just sitting in their shipment boxes, ready to be sent to local food banks.

We’re focusing on Canadian produce.
Spring brought us rhubarb, along with all its various ways of being prepared.
During the past month you’ve probably gone through your old favourite recipes.
Here are a few new ones to try.

These recipes work best with fresh rhubarb.
If you’re new at using fresh, unchopped rhubarb, don’t panic.
About 2–3 stalks will give you 1 1/2 cups diced rhubarb.
A little more or less will be just fine.

Frozen works, too, but allow the rhubarb to thaw. Drain well before using.


The ‘Buy Canadian / Avoid American’ lists of companies is here 

https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/02/buy-canadian.html


We can handle this, too.

Elbows up and Happy Canada Day, Canada!!

Hints:
Have your eggs and butter at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Zest your lemon before juicing. Just saying.


About the Sour Cream Rhubarb Coffee Cakes…
They both have a moist, tender, buttery crumb.
The glaze is optional, but adds a certain something.


They can be served for breakfast, brunch or dessert.
Enjoy warm with coffee or tea, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Strawberry ice cream would also be good, too.


About the Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars…
The old fashioned rolled oats adds to the texture of the bars, giving a bit of heft.
Quicker cooking oats will work, but you might want to add a bit more.

If you don’t have brown sugar you can use granulated.


About the Rhubarb Shortbread Bars…
For extra flavour, add 1–2 teaspoons of lemon zest, or extract, to the filling.

They can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months.


About the Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze…
Store the cooled loaf, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days at room temperature.
It will keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
You could freeze it, unglazed, for up to 2 months. Just slice and wrap the slices.
Bring to room temperature before serving. Glaze and garnish after thawing.

Variations:
Add 1/2 Cup chopped fresh strawberries.
Add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract and top with slivered almonds before baking.
Use coconut milk in the glaze instead of lemon juice for a tropical touch.
Replace half of the flour for whole wheat flour for more fibre.


                                       Sour Cream Rhubarb Coffee Cake

Grease a 9 x 13 inch pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Combine in medium bowl
2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixing bowl
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 Cups granulated sugar
Beat together until light and fluffy.
Add in, one at a time
2 large eggs
Beat well to blend.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 Cup sour cream
Gradually add the flour mixture.
Mix just until combined.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb.
Pour mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

While the cake is still warm, place in a medium bowl
1/2 Cup confectioner’s sugar
1 to 2 Tablespoons milk or lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk together
Drizzle over the top of the cake.
Let it cool 20 minutes before cutting.


                                       Sour Cream Rhubarb Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping

Lightly grease an 8 inch square baking pan.

For the topping:
Place in a small bowl
1/4 Cup flour
1/4 Cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Combine, then add
1/4 Cup butter, cubed
Cut in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Set aside.

For the cake:
Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Combine in medium bowl
1 Cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixing bowl
1/2 Cup butter, softened
3/4 Cup granulated sugar
Beat together until light and fluffy.
Add in, one at a time
2 large eggs
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla
Alternating between the flour mixture and
1/2 Cup sour cream
Make 3 dry and 2 liquid additions.
Mix just until combined.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb.
Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
Transfer it to a wire rack.

Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup confectioner’s sugar
1 to 2 teaspoons milk or lemon juice
Whisk together until smooth. Add more liquid if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

                                       Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars

Lightly grease an 8 inch square baking pan.

Place in a large mixing bowl
1 1/2 Cups old fashioned rolled oats
1 1/4 Cups flour
3/4 Cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Combine.
Add
3/4 Cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
Cut the butter in until the mixture is crumbly.
Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture in the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
Reserve the remaining mixture for the topping.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
3 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium saucepan
the chopped rhubarb
1/2 Cup granulated sugar
2 Tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 Tablespoon water
Stirring frequently, cook over medium heat until the mixture is thickened and the rhubarb is just tender, about 6–8 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Spoon the rhubarb filling evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the top to form a crumbly topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown.
Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.
Serve as is or topped with whipped cream or ice cream.


                                       Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

Line a 9 × 13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
4 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a large bowl
The chopped rhubarb
1 1/2 Cups sugar
Set aside to draw out juices.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixing bowl
2 Cups flour

1/2 Cup granulated sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
Combine, then add
1 Cup cold butter, cubed
Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden and firm to the touch.
Remove from oven.

While the crust is baking prepare the Rhubarb Filling
Add to the chopped rhubarb-sugar mixture
1/4 Cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs, lightly beaten
Let the filling rest for 10 minutes to allow the cornstarch to absorb the liquid.

Pour the rhubarb filling over the warm shortbread base.
Top evenly with the remaining crust mixture crumbs.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until lightly golden.
The centre should be mostly firm.
Let it cool completely in the pan, for 1 to 2 hours.
Once cooled, lift the cake from the pan.
These firm up best after full cooling. Don’t cut too soon!
Dust with confectioner’s sugar (optional)
Slice into 12 to 16 bars.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.


                                       Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze

Grease a 9 × 5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt

Place in a large mixing bowl
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 Cup butter, melted and cooled
1 Cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 Tablespoons lemon juice
Stir together until well combined.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
Stir until just combined. Do not over mix.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
If, after 40 minutes, the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack.
While the loaf cools, prepare the glaze.

Place in a small bowl
1 Cup confectioner’s sugar
2–3 Tablespoons lemon juice (adjust for consistency, thin for a drizzle, thick for a frosting)
Mix until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the top or spread the frosting.
Garnish with
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Serve a slice warm with a pat of butter for breakfast or brunch.
For a dessert, serve as is or with ice cream or whipped cream.

Anna Sultana’s Fougasse Bread, Onion Focaccia and Fast Focaccia / Use It Now

Fougasse Bread

The major news story, on both sides of the border, is the rising food prices.

I can remember buying a loaf of Italian bread for a dollar.

Now, it costs over two dollars.

Now, I’m not buying it.



Nope… now it’s time to make some Italian bread of my own.

Ma used to make focaccia with herbs and onions.

Focaccia is an Italian flat bread that’s easy to make. 

It’s perfect right out of the oven with a bowl of soup or a salad.

It can also be used in place of rolls for sandwiches.


Fougasse is a type of focaccia from the Provence area in Southern France.
Don’t let that scare you. It’s easy to make.
Focaccia is cooked in a pan and has dimpling on the top of the loaf.
Fougasse is cooked like a pizza and is slashed to look like a wheat sheaf.
It has a crisp crust and a spongy, slightly chewy inside and is perfect for snacking, dipped in oil or spread with soft cheese.


Here ’s a link for a few other of Ma's Focaccia recipes
Anna Sultana’s Herbed Focaccia and Focaccia with Tomatoes & Onions / One-Hour Skillet Focaccia, Fast No-Knead Focaccia, No-Knead Skillet Focaccia

https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2023/01/focacciaanna-sultanas-herbed-focaccia.html

Enjoy!


Hints:

About the Fougasse Bread…
A typical Provence combination of herbs is rosemary, thyme and oregano.
You can also add things like olives and anchovies or ham or cheese.
Or whatever you like, or have in your fridge or on your shelves.

If there is still flour in the bowl, gradually add a little water to blend into the whole.

It can also be baked in a muffin tin, without slashes, for individual loaves.

Fougasse is best eaten warm and freezes well.


About the Focaccia breads…
If you use whole wheat flour it will be a bit more dense, not light and fluffy.



You can also use refrigerated pizza dough. Bake at 375º F for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown. 



You could top it with herbs like oregano, or thick slices of garlic or shallots, or sesame seeds, as well as with halved grape tomatoes, chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes or thinly sliced lemons.



Some ingredients should be added after the bread has baked. For example: delicate herbs, such as basil, and garnishes, such as honey, that might burn in the oven, should be added to baked bread.



Focaccia is best the day it is made but it can be stored, well-wrapped, at room temperature for a day. The crust will soften, but, if the crust gets too soft, it can be warmed and crisped in a 350° F oven for a few minutes. 



Focaccia freezes well. Let it defrost at room temperature and then reheat in a 350° F oven.

About the Onion Focaccia…
If, when you press the dough after the third rising, it sinks and deflates, it is overproofed.
You can still bake it and call it flatbread.

The dough can be made a day ahead. Wrap tightly after the second rising and refrigerate.

About the Fast Focaccia…
The dough can be used right away, but it is much easier to handle if it’s been thoroughly chilled. The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer, as shaped loaves, for a few months.
The frozen loaves need to sit at room temperature for 35 minutes before they are baked.

The baking time will vary depending on the focaccia’s thickness.


                                                               Fougasse Bread

Makes 1 small loaf
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine in a large bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon rosemary
1/4 teaspoon thyme
1/4 teaspoon oregano
Add
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 Cup plus 1 Tablespoon warm water
Stir together until it all comes together.

Place the mixture on a lightly floured surface and knead 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and not sticky. If needed, add a little more flour. Bring dough together into a ball.

Lightly oil the large bowl and return the dough to it.
Cover with a towel and place in a warm place. Leave to double in size, about an hour.
Once the dough has doubled, place it on a lightly floured surface.
Stretch it out into an oval shape, about 2/3 inch thick.
Place the dough on the lined baking sheet.
Using a sharp knife, make a long cut down the middle of the dough, then three cuts on either side. Gently stretch open each of the cuts to leave a set of openings in the dough in a leaf-like pattern.
Cover with a damp cloth and leave to rest 25 minutes.

Preheat oven to 430º F


Remove the cloth and brush the top of the loaf with
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Sprinkle over loaf
1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
Allow to cool slightly before slicing or tearing into pieces.


                                                               Onion Focaccia


Place in large mixer bowl

2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
2 teaspoons honey
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 Cups warm water

Stir together.

Add 

5 Cups flour
Stir to blend.
Add

1 teaspoon Kosher salt
Stir to combine. It will still be wet and sticky.
Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Place in a warm spot until dough doubles in size, about 60 minutes

Lightly flour work surface and turn dough out onto it.
Sprinkle flour on the dough and knead until it looks smooth and elastic.

Oil the large mixer bowl, put dough in it and rotate the dough to cover surface with oil.
Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Place in a warm spot and let sit until dough doubles in size, about 45 to 60 minutes.

Generously oil a rimmed baking sheet, about 12 3⁄4 by 17 3⁄4 inches.
Turn the dough onto the baking sheet and stretch the dough into a flat, even layer.
Generously drizzle olive oil over the top and place a piece of plastic lightly over it.
Place in a warm spot and let sit for another 45 to 60 minutes. The dough should look puffy.

Slice into rings about 1/8 inch thick
1 small red onion



Preheat oven to 425º F 


Gently press the dough. It should spring back slightly.
Make indentations in the dough with your fingers.
Scatter the onion rings over the top and drizzle with olive oil.
Sprinkle with
sea salt


Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until golden brown and the onion has caramelized. 

Remove from oven and cool slightly, then cut into pieces and serve.


                                                               Fast Focaccia

Place in each of 2   9 inch cake pan
2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Evenly coat the bottom of the pans with the oil.

Place the rack in the middle of the oven.


Place in a large bowl

1 1/2 Cups plus 2 Tablespoons lukewarm water
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons yeast
2 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 Tablespoon sugar
3 3/4 Cups flour

Stir together to form a rough dough.

Cover bowl and let rest on the counter for two hours.

Dust the surface of the dough lightly with flour.
Take half of the dough, dust again with flour and knead for a few minutes.
Flatten it into a disk 1/2 inch thick, six to seven inches in diameter.
Place the dough in an oiled cake pan to coat the bottom surface with oil.
Take the dough out of the pan, turn the dough over, return the dough to the pan, cover the pan with plastic wrap, and let rest for 15 minutes.

Repeat with the second half of the dough.

Gently push the dough to the edges of the cake pan.
Sprinkle with
1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary
kosher salt
Cover with plastic wrap, and allow the dough to rest for 20 minutes.

Repeat with the second half of the dough.


Preheat oven to 425º F 


Place the cake pans in the oven.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is medium brown and feels dry and firm.
Loosen the loaf from the edges of the pan, then transfer the focaccia to a cutting board.
Cut into wedges and serve warm, or allow to cool completely.

                                                       ~~~
Back in February 2004 we, the hosts of our CKUW radio show ‘2000 & Counting’, had a few things to say about the holiday season we’d just survived. 

I had a few thoughts on what we could do with our Christmas gifts.

Don’t think it changed anybody's mind. Can't fight traditions.




Christmas is over. Boxing Day is finis. People are frantically trying to find some forgotten corner in their homes where they can stash away their great bargains. Ah, holidays… Does anything else make us work this hard?

It's also time for resolutions. You've heard them all: stop smoking, lose weight, get into shape. Fine. Health is important.  

But, let's tackle a problem that cuts across all ethnic, socio-economic, age and national borders. A problem that causes hurt feelings in every family. A problem that can haunt your family even after you've gone to that great bargain hunt in the sky. 

The problem is saving. I'm not talking about GICs, RSPs, stocks or bonds. No. I'm talking about Christmas Gift Saving.

Remember Christmas? You unwrapped a gift while your loved ones held their breaths and stared, eagerly awaiting your reaction. You didn't disappoint. You oohed and aahed and said you loved it. You loved the colour, the material, the cut, the fragrance, the thought and the care that made your sweeties decide that you just had to have it. 

Then you packed it away.

Oh, I know the excuses:

You're saving it for a special occasion.

You're saving it for when company comes over.

You don't want to ruin it.

You'll use it when you have a blouse, skirt, hat, coat or umbrella that'll really go great with it.

You'll use it when you've lost a few pounds.

You - as you are now, with what you own now - are not good enough to use the darn thing.

What does this mean? Are you saying that in the future you want to be given something you'll hate? That if it was something awful you'd feel free to use it?

Trust me. They didn't take out a loan to buy it. They probably bought it at last year's Boxing Day sales. Half price.  

Repeat after me: I'm good enough to use it. Say it again. I knew you could. 
Ready to use it now? No, eh. 

Oh, I can hear you. You got through the depression, the war, corporate downsizings. You know how to do without and save. Whoopee!! Even if there were another depression, we won't go on a Jean Nate cologne barter system. The good old days of black markets are gone. Today war means total annihilation. Your Jean Nate will vaporize.

Clothes do go out of style. Your grandchildren won't want them. Did you hear about the huge sale the Kennedys had after Jackie died? Caroline wasn't eager to wear those little pillbox hats her Mom had made so popular. Unless you have a relative working for the costume museum in Dugald, those mint condition scarves, blouses and purses will end up at the Sally Ann, or bundled for paint rags.

You want them to remember you? Use the gift. They'll be fighting like cats and dogs to inherit your old purse because it'll remind them of you. There… Doesn't the image of your nearest and dearest in a knock down drag out battle make you feel all warm and toasty.  

Happy New Year and enjoy!

Anna Sultana’s Soft Molasses Cookies, Iced Soft Molasses Cookies and Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread / Tossing Christmas Cookies by Margaret Ullrich

Went grocery shopping yesterday.
They don’t have any sugar, neither white nor brown.
I saw another shopper crying.


Honey and molasses are sweet, traditional and still on the shelves.
A cook’s gotta do what a cook’s gotta do, especially during the holidays.
Okay… a few days ago I posted honey recipes.
Today we’ll take a look at molasses recipes.

Here are a few molasses recipes I’ve posted over the years.
Some are even traditional for Christmas.
The Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread is served for morning toast with butter during the Holidays.
Tell the family to think of the new recipes as a cultural experience…
or whatever excuse you think they’ll swallow.


Anna Sultana's Panettone and Gingerbread
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2021/12/anna-sultanas-panettone-and-gingerbread.html

Gingerbread and Seven Minute Frosting / Buttermilk Substitute for Baking - Margaret Ullrich
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2011/12/gingerbread-seven-minute-frosting.html

Anna Sultana’s German-Style Chocolate Cake, Kuchen and Gingerbread for Father's Day
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2023/06/anna-sultanas-german-style-chocolate.html

Anna Sultana's Qaghaq ta' l-Ghasel (Honey or treacle rings, Maltese Style)
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2010/12/anna-sultanas-qaghaq-ta-l-ghasel.html

Anna Sultana's Qaghaq tal-ghasel #2 - Treacle Rings, Maltese Style
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2013/08/anna-sultanas-qagaq-tal-gasel-2-maltese.html

Anna Sultana’s Pfeffernüsse (German Christmas Cookies)
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2015/12/anna-sultanas-pfeffernusse-german.html

Anna Sultana’s Gingersnap Cookies
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2015/12/anna-sultanas-gingersnap-cookies.html

Gingerbread Cookies (Christmas Cookies) and Royal Frosting - Margaret Ullrich
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2011/12/gingerbread-cookies-margaret-ullrich.html


Hints:

About the Soft Molasses Cookies…
Combine 1/2 Cup raisins with 1/2 Cup of the flour mixture before you add them to the molasses mixture.
These cookies will stay fresh, covered at room temperature, for one week.

About the Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread…
You may need to add a little more flour so that your dough will not be sticky.

Molasses bread generally takes a bit longer to rise than white bread does.
Make sure the dough rises at least a couple of inches above the bread pan’s rim before baking.


                        Soft Molasses Cookies

Have on hand 3 ungreased baking sheets.

Sift together into a medium bowl
2 Cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
Set aside.

Place in a large mixer bowl
3/4 Cup shortening or oil
1 Cup sugar (brown will be fine)
Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Add
1/4 Cup dark molasses
Beat until combined.
Add
1 large egg
Scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed, beat until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, about 1/2 cup at a time, to the creamed mixture.

Place in a rimmed pan
1/2 Cup sugar (add more if needed while making the cookies)

Preheat the oven to 350º F

Form dough into balls about 1 1/2 inches, and roll them in the sugar in the pan.
Place on a baking sheet, about 3 inches apart.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until browned and edges appear set.
Let cool for five minutes on baking sheet before transferring to cooling racks.
Repeat with remaining dough.


                        Iced Soft Molasses Cookies

Yield 36 cookies
Line 4 cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Sift into a large bowl
3 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 Tablespoon cinnamon
1 Tablespoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon cloves
Set aside.

Place in a 2 cup measuring cup or medium bowl
3/4 Cup molasses
3/4 Cup buttermilk, room temperature
Stir well with a fork to thoroughly mix.

Place in a large mixer bowl
3/4 Cup unsalted butter, room temperature
3/4 Cup packed brown sugar
Cream together until fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add
1 large egg, room temperature
Add the molasses / buttermilk mixture.
Scraping the bowl often, stir mixture on low. It will look curdled.
Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir just until blended.
Turn off the mixer and stir a few times with a spatula, scraping the sides and bottom.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Drop measuring tablespoon size balls of batter onto the cookie sheet, two inches apart.
Bake for 12 minutes or until the cookies are done.
To test poke a cookie with a finger. If the indent bounces back then they’re done.
Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Repeat with remaining dough.
When the cookies have cooled, make the icing.

Icing

Place in a medium bowl
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 Cups confectioners’ sugar
1/4 Cup cream or milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir together until well combined and smooth.
Either dip the tops of the cookies into the icing bowl or spoon the icing over the cookies, allowing the excess icing to run off.
Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
Allow the icing to set before serving.


                        Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread

Makes 2  1 1/2 pound loaves

Grease well 2 9x5x3 inch loaf pans

Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup lukewarm water
1 Tablespoon sugar
Stir together and add
2 teaspoons dry yeast
Let stand without stirring for 10 minutes.

Stir together in a large mixing bowl
2 Cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
When the yeast is ready, stir it and add to the flour.
Stir in
1/3 Cup melted butter
1/2 Cup molasses
3/4 Cup lukewarm milk
1 large egg, beaten
Mix slowly for 5 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth with no lumps.
Gradually add
2 Cups flour
You might need to add more flour for a soft dough that leaves the sides of the bowl.
Add
2 Cups raisins
Knead until the raisins are evenly distributed in the dough.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to knead for 10 minutes.
Place the dough in a large bowl, then cover the bowl with a damp tea towel.
Leave it to rest and rise for two hours.

Punch the dough down and knead it for a few minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and form each portion into a ball.
Place 3 balls of dough in each prepared loaf pan.
Cover with a tea towel and allow to rise until it is about 2 inches above the rim, about 2-3 hours.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Bake for 45 minutes. The top and bottom crust should have good colour.
Turn the loaves out onto a wire rack to cool.
Brush the tops with melted butter to soften the top crust, if desired.


                                                       ~~~
I also wrote the following essay about Christmas traditions for our CKUW radio show ‘2000 & Counting’. Over the years our listeners asked for some seasonal stories to be repeated.
They seemed to like being reminded that we were all in the same holiday boat, a communal ship which made us feel like we were all sinking fast.

Ah… Christmas shopping, holiday baking and holiday customs…
Why do we do it?

I don't know about you, but as far as I'm concerned, there are two questions no one should ever ask a woman.

The first is How old are you?
The second is Have you done your holiday baking yet?

Why is it that, when the thermometer falls, we're supposed to bake? 
Does the Queen whip up a fruitcake before writing her speech?
I don't think so.  

Holiday baking has been with us an awfully long time.
Did you know that ginger was popular in Greece over 5,000 years ago? The Egyptians were eating gingerbread when the great pyramid of Cheops was just a brick and a prayer. I wonder what their gingerbread men looked like.

A few years after Egypt's building boom, an English King and his hunting party got lost in a blizzard on Christmas Eve. Well, they were clever lads full of English pluck, so they threw everything they had - meat, flour, sugar, apples, ale and brandy - into a bag and cooked it. Wallah!!  Plum pudding. The Iron Chef would've been proud.  

On Christmas Day in 1666, Samuel Pepys wrote in his diary that he had risen earlier than his wife Who was desirous to sleep having sat up till four this morning seeing her maids make mince pies. 
I really admire Mrs. P. She just sat and watched her maids do the work, yet her husband felt guilty about her workload. How did she get him to suffer like that?   

Some Christmas carols seem a little too focused on food.  For example:
     Now bring us some figgy pudding and a cup of good cheer!
     We won't go until we get some, so bring it out here.
Those were somebody's friends?  Somebody should've called the cops.


Holiday baking has followed us into modern times. The 1970s was the decade of old time family television shows like The Waltons and memoir books.
Have you ever browsed through a memoir book? It could make you weep. They reminded us of times like this...
Evenings when a cold blustery wind howled outside were perfect for sorting through recipes. They were cozy times. The children were sitting at the oak table helping Mama chop fruit and raisins. Papa was cracking and shelling nuts and crushing fresh spices in the grinder.

Isn't that sweet? Sentences like that convinced me that if we did things just like people did before television was invented, the world would be a kinder, gentler place.

We'll never know. Paul told me, in no uncertain terms, that he was too busy to grind nuts for a cake he didn't even want.
Alright. Scratch Paul grinding his nuts. I bought ground nuts.

Step two... the batter had to be mixed. Back to that memoir...
When all the fruits were in, Grandmother called, 'Come, stir the batter!'
We all took turns giving it a stir - clockwise for good luck - and made a wish.

I made a batter, threw in the fruits and called out Come, stir the batter!

Carl pointed to the electric mixer sitting on the counter and said that he was staying on the eighth level of his computer game, The Temple of Ra. He also told me, in no uncertain terms, that he was too busy to stir batter for a cake he didn't even want.

I stirred the batter, clockwise.
Don't ask what I wished.


It's been downhill ever since. Do you know about the charming Swedish custom of hiding a whole almond in a serving bowl of rice pudding? The lucky person who finds the almond has to get married or do the dishes. Either my husband or my son - the fink never confessed - managed to swallow the almond every time.

I tried the German version: whoever finds the almond receives a marzipan pig. By then Paul and Carl had their own tradition: swallowing the almond. I felt so guilty looking at that poor rejected pig.
I started my own tradition and ate him... along with the cake.

There's a Christmas carol that goes: Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat...

Well, the goose isn't the only one.

Folklorama & Anna Sultana's Chicken Shawarma, Easy Chicken Gyros, Pita Bread and Flatbread

Hope you enjoyed seeing the super moon / blue moon last night.
The last time we had two super full moons in one month was in 2018, and the next time it will happen will be in 2037.
Mark your calendars!

Other than the super moons life has been getting back to normal here in Winnipeg.
Folklorama had its usual 40 pavilions divided evenly between two weeks in August.
Back in the 70s all 40 pavilions put on their shows in one week and we managed to see them all.
Now we’re in our 70s, and visiting two pavilions one week and two pavilions the next was more than enough excitement for us.


We started our whirlwind tour with a visit to the Greek Pavilion.
I’ve always had a soft spot for Greek food.
When my parents and I immigrated to America we travelled on a Greek ship.
I was only three months old at the time, but maybe somewhere in my subconscious I still remember the smell of the food.
Ma sometimes made Greek bread instead of her Maltese bread for a little variety
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2011/10/anna-sultanas-hobz.html

Shawarma is usually made with meat cooked on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served in a flatbread or pita.
Gyro means to turn and doesn’t refer to turning vertically or horizontally.
Ma had a rotisserie in her kitchen and she decided meat cooked on a rotisserie would also makes a nice gyro or shawarma, as well as a sandwich.

When covid started in 2020 sourdough bread suddenly became very popular.
Pita Bread and Flatbread are a lot easier to make and don’t require special equipment.
If you don’t have a dough hook attachment just mix the ingredients in a large bowl and knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured board for about 5-7 minutes.
The dough should feel smooth and elastic. You can add more flour to keep the dough from sticking, but it’s better to use too little than too much flour.  
After the first rise, knead by hand and let the dough rest before forming into loaves.

Strong bread flour, another name for bread flour, is made from hard wheat and has more protein, from 12 to 14 percent, which gives you bread that rises higher and has a more chewy texture. You can substitute all purpose flour, cup for cup, and the recipe will be fine.


You don’t have to wait for Folklorama to get a little variety in your menu.
Donairs, wraps filled with spiced ground beef or lamb and vegetables, were created by Peter Gamoulakos, a Greek who emigrated to Halifax, Nova Scotia in the 1950s.
His traditional gyros didn't sell, so he changed the recipe and a new favourite was born.
Feel free to go creative!

Hints:

About the Chicken Shawarma…
Chicken thighs are better than chicken breasts for high-heat cooking since they stay juicy.

You can also serve the chicken cold in a salad, or you can reheat by wrapping in foil, and heating at 375º F for 20 minutes.

About the Shawarma Sauce…
It can be made a couple of days ahead.
You can replace the tahini with nut butter (peanut/almond/cashew) for a nutty taste.
Or you can take half a cucumber, slice and squeeze out to remove most of the liquid, then chop finely and add to the sauce for a tzatziki style dressing.

About the Easy Chicken Gyros…
Use a small shallow roasting tin to keep the stock from evaporating.

You can also serve the chicken cold with coleslaw instead of tzatziki.

About the Flatbread….
Flatbreads are thicker and chewier than tortillas or pita breads.
They stay soft and pliable, even when cold, and are perfect for Gyros or with kebabs.

To make ahead, cool them, then place loaves on a pan and cover with foil.
They should keep at room temperature for 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 4 days.

To freeze place in a freezer bag with parchment between each to keep from sticking.
Defrost at room temperate before serving.
To warm place in a single layer on a baking tray, sprinkle with a little water and place, uncovered, in the oven at 350º F for 2-3 minutes.

About the Pita bread…
Cast iron gives you the best results.
As each loaf cooks, the internal steam creates the pocket. Usually one area bubbles up. Press on this area with your spatula, gently, to coax the steam toward the unrisen areas.

No pocket forming? You now have a warm loaf of flatbread, best eaten while still warm.
Stacking the pitas helps to keep them soft.

To freezer allow them to cool completely, then store in a zip-top plastic bag.
To reheat  wrap in foil and place in the oven for 10 minutes, or until hot, soft, and pliable.


                                                              Chicken Shawarma

Place in a large bowl
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon coriander
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder



Cut into bite-sized pieces
8 chicken thighs
Place in bowl of spiced oil and stir to coat well.
Cover bowl, place in the refrigerator and allow to marinate for an hour (overnight is better).

Shawarma Sauce
Place in a container that has a lid
1 Cup Greek yogurt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1/2 Tablespoons tahini (optional)
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon dill
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Combine well, cover and refrigerate.

Have on hand for serving
4 warmed flatbreads
a few lettuce leaves, shredded
1/2 red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
8 cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/4 cucumber, sliced into rounds, then quartered

When you are ready to prepare the shawarma lightly oil a frying pan.
Heat over medium high heat.
Turning regularly, fry the chicken pieces for 6 to10 minutes, until cooked.

Place the warmed flatbreads on 4 plates and divide the prepared vegetables among them.
Place the cooked chicken on top of the vegetables.
Drizzle the shawarma sauce over the chicken, roll up the flatbreads and serve.


                                                               Easy Chicken Gyros

Combine in a small bowl
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
Add and stir until well blended
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
1 Tablespoon honey
3 Tablespoons olive oil
1 Tablespoon red wine vinegar

Have on hand for broiling
1/4 Cup chicken stock

Have on hand for serving
4 warmed flatbreads
a few lettuce leaves, shredded
1/2 red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
8 cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/4 cucumber, sliced into rounds, then quartered
Tzatziki sauce
1/4 teaspoon oregano


Shred the meat from a rotisserie chicken into a bowl.
Add the spice mixture and toss together until the chicken is coated.
Spread the shredded chicken in an even layer in a small baking pan.

Preheat the broiler on high.
Place the chicken under the broiler and broil for 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove pan from broiler. Spoon half of the chicken stock over the chicken.
Toss chicken and return to broiler for another 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove pan from broiler. Spoon the remaining stock over the chicken.
Toss the chicken and return to broiler for a final 2 minutes.
Remove pan from broiler and turn off the broiler.

Place the warmed flatbreads on 4 plates and divide the prepared vegetables among them.
Spoon the chicken on top of the vegetables down the centre of the flatbreads.
Spoon tzatziki sauce over the chicken, top with oregano, roll up the flatbreads and serve.


                                                               Pita Bread

Makes 8 large loaves or 16 small loaves

Place in large bowl of stand mixer
6 Cups flour (strong bread flour works best)
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 Tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 Tablespoons yeast
Whisk together and place the bowl in the mixer.
Add
1/3 Cup plain yogurt
2 1/2 Cups lukewarm water
1/4 Cup olive oil
Using the dough hook attachment, mix at low speed, stopping the mixer at intervals and push the dough down off the hook, for about 6 minutes until a smooth, soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a work surface and form into a smooth ball.
Put 1 teaspoon oil in the mixer bowl, and roll the dough ball around to lightly coat.
Place bowl in a warm location, then cover with a damp cloth.
Allow dough to rise until about double in size, about 1 to 2 hours.
Turn dough out onto a lightly floured work surface, punch down and form a log shape.
Divide this into 8 or 16 equal pieces.
Form each piece into a smooth ball, then place the balls on the board.
Brush lightly with oil and cover with plastic wrap.
Allow to rest for 1/2 hour.

Lightly flour work the surface and flatten each ball into a disk.
Lightly flour the top of each disk, and roll with a rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thick.
Let the loaves rest about 10 minutes.
Wipe the skillet with a little oil then heat the skillet over medium heat, to medium high heat.
Toss a pita between your hands to shake off flour, then lay the loaf flat in the hot skillet.
Wait about 30 seconds and flip. There should be just a few small speckles of brown. If you see black your pan is too hot.
Wait 30 seconds and flip again. Wait until the loaf rises to about 3/4 inch thickness, then flip again.
When the whole loaf puffs up, wait a few seconds, then remove the pita to cool and deflate.

Wipe the skillet with a little oil and repeat with each pita.


                                                               Flatbread

12 flatbreads

Place in a large mixer bowl
2 Cups lukewarm water
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoon yeast
Stir together and let rest for 5 minutes, until foam appears on top.
Add
4 Tablespoons olive oil
6 1/2 Cups flour (strong bread flour works best)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Mix the dough together using the dough hook until combined.
Using the stand mixer’s dough hook knead the dough for 10 minutes.
Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth and allow to sit for 60-90 minutes, until it has doubled in size.
Divide the dough into 12 pieces.
Shape the pieces into balls, place on a tray, and cover with a damp cloth.

Lightly flour the work surface.
Take a dough ball and roll into a circle, about  7 1/2 inches in diameter.
Toss the loaf back and forth a couple of times to remove excess flour and set aside.
Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

Brush a medium frying pan with a little oil and place over a medium high heat.
Place a pita in the pan and brush the top lightly with oil.
Cook for about a minute, until bubbles start to appear.
Turn over to cook for another minute.
Place the loaf on a warmed plate and repeat with another pita, brushing the pan with oil after every 3 pitas.
Stack the pitas on a plate, laying a dry cloth over them to keep warm.