Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas - will post again very soon

Chocolate Mini-Puffs

Very easy and good with either afternoon tea, morning coffee or after a meal with a good expresso!

This is a good change from mince pies and Christmas cake.

1/2 (17.3-ounce) package Frozen Puff Pastry 3 tablespoons sugar -- divided 1 cup heavy cream 1/3 cup cocoa Thaw pastry sheet at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 400ºF. Unfold pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll to make a 14 × 9-inch rectangle. Using a 2-inch biscuit cutter, cut into 24 rounds. Prick rounds with fork tines. Brush with water; sprinkle lightly with sugar, using a total of 1 1/2 teaspoons. Place pastries on an ungreased baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake 10 minutes or until puffed and golden. Meanwhile, in a small bowl with electric mixer on high, beat cream, cocoa and the remaining 2 1/2 tablespoons sugar until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes. Split each round in half. For each mini-puff, spoon about 2 teaspoons of chocolate mixture on bottom half; top with remaining pastry half and 1 teaspoon of chocolate mixture; repeat with remaining rounds. Decorate with chocolate curls or chocolate sprinkles and a dusting of cocoa, if desired.

Old Fashined Beef Stew

This is a make ahead meal in one dish - serve with a salad and garlic bread.

1 1/2 pounds cubed beef - this can be any cut you like but the more tender the better 2 onions sliced 6 garlic cloves 1 packet brown onion soup - dried 5 carrots -- cut in chunks 1 glass wine - red or white water to cover ingredients well ( about 250 ml less than the soup packet recommends for soup)

potatoes - grated Mix all ingredients, except potatoes , and place in casserole. Cover top with raw potatoes. Cover and bake at 250F for about 4 hours

Crustless Spinach Quiche

Ideal for a summer lunch served with a tomato and olive salad!

1 large onions -- chopped 1 tablespoon oil 10 ounces spinach cooked and finely chopped 5 eggs 12 ounces strong cheese -- shredded 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 dash black pepper Thaw and press spinach dry. Preheat oven to 350. Saute‚ onion in oil in large skillet until tender. Add spinach and cook until excess moisture evaporates; cool. Combine eggs, cheese, salt, and pepper; stir into spinach mixture. Pour into greased 9" pie plate. Bake 30 minutes, until set.

You may add mushrooms if wished - saute with the spinach and onion.

Garlic is also a very good addition to this recipe.

If you like a crust then place the mixture into your favourite savorty pie crust.

Potato Peels

In a country struggling for food we use everything we can. If potatoes have to be peeled we save the scrubbed peels and fry them until crisp in the deep fryer. Drain them well and sprinkle with salt. Very good served with sundowners!

African Apricot Chicken

This is simplicity itself. A good entertaining dish as all the preparation can be done beforehand and the cooking is quick. It is very delicious too! Ideal for our hot lazy days!

3 pounds boneless chicken breasts -- cut into 4 inch chunks 2 cloves garlic -- minced salt and pepper to taste 4 medium onions -- finely chopped 2 tablespoons oil 1 1/2 teaspoons coriander 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1 1/2 teaspoons hot curry powder 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice 4 tablespoons apricot jam 2 tablespoons flour 30 dried apricot halves 1 onion -- cut into 2 inch 2 bay leaves In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces, garlic, salt and pepper; set aside. In a medium frying pan, fry onions in oil until golden. Stir in coriander, cumin and curry powder. Stir to coat onions, then add brown sugar, lemon juice and jam. Add 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. When cool, pour over chicken. Add bay leaves and refrigerate overnight. The next day, thread meat with onions and apricots on skewers. Grill over coals or broil in oven (7 minutes on each side). While meat grills, remove bay leaves from marinade and transfer it to a heavy pot. Bring to a boil. Serve over rice.

Harare Bananas

As usual with my recipes this one has several variations. You have to be prepared in Zimbabwe! This can be made in a saucepan on a gas or electric stove or over an open fire in a black pot!

A lovely dessert ideal for family and friends 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1/4 cup orange juice 1 tablespoon dark rum or brandy -- (optional) 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 bananas ice cream or pound cake Melt butter in a pan. Stir in brown sugar, orange juice, rum or brandy (if used), and cinnamon. Bring to a boil; cook and stir over medium-high heat for several minutes, or until mixture is reduced by about one quarter. Sauce will be slightly syrupy. Peel bananas, split in half lengthwise, then cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces, or slice bananas crosswise into 1-inch chunks. Add bananas to sauce in pan. Cook bananas just enough to heat through, basting with sauce. Do not overcook, or bananas will be mushy. Spoon bananas and sauce over ice cream or cake. Serve immediately. Recipe can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead. Just before serving, reheat sauce and add bananas. Variation: Split 3 bananas lengthwise, then cut in half. Follow directions above, adding 2 tablespoons whipping cream or half-and-half along with ingredients in step 1. Arrange 3 banana slices per serving on dessert plates. Spoon on sauce. Garnish with mint sprig. Microwave Version Place butter in a 9- or 10-inch glass pie plate. Microwave on 100% power 30 to 45 seconds to melt. Stir in brown sugar, orange juice, rum (if used), and cinnamon. Microwave on 100% power 2 to 3 minutes, or until mixture is reduced by about one quarter. Stir once during cooking. Sauce will be slightly syrupy. Meanwhile, peel bananas. Split lengthwise, then cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces, or slice bananas crosswise into 1-inch chunks. Add bananas to sauce, spooning sauce over bananas to baste. Microwave on 100% power 30 to 45 seconds, just to heat bananas through. Do not overcook, or bananas will be mushy. Spoon bananas and sauce over ice cream or cake. Serve immediately.

Berry Jam

A very good and easy recipe for jam which uses up the excess berries on the bushes and trees.

4 cups crushed berries (Mulberries are in season and very good) 4 cups sugar To prepare fruit. Sort and wash berries. Crush the berries. Put very seedy berries through a sieve or food mill. To make jam. Measure crushed berries into a pan or microwave proof dish. Add sugar and stir well. Boil rapidly, stirring constantly, to 9 degrees above the boiling point of water (221 degrees), or until the mixture thickens - if using microwave this will probably be about 25 minutes. Remove from heat; skim. Fill and seal containers. This recipe yields 4 half-pint jars. To preserve for a longer period add a tablespoon of vodka or brandy to the finished jam.

Coconut and passion Fruit slices

Tea is a very old tradition in Zimbwe and this is a very good addition to the cucumber sandwiches and chocolate cake!

125 grams butter 210 grams caster sugar 1 egg 5 milligrams vanilla essence 60 grams flour 5 milligrams baking powder pinch salt Filling 4 eggs 200 grams sugar 80 grams decicated coconut 50 grams flour 375 milliliters cream 160 milliliters coconut milk juice and zest of one lemon 125 milliliters passon fruit pulp Preheat over to 180 degrees and grease and line a baking tray Place butter and sugar in an electric mixer and beat until light and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla and beat well. Sift in the flour, baking powder and salt. Stir until combined and makes a sticky dough Press the pastry evenly into the pan and bake for about 15 minutes For the filling place the eggs and sugar in a bowl and whisk until pale - add the coconut, flour, cream , coconut milk. lemon juice and passion fruit. Stir to combine and pour the filling over the baked pastry case. Bake for about 35 - 40 minutes until golden. Alow to cool in tin before cutting in slices.

APPLE CHUNKIES

These ar so good with your moning coffee! 1 cup flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup butter (1/2 cube) 3/4 cup sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup chopped raw apples 1/2 cup coarsely broken walnuts Sift flour, measure, then sift again with baking powder and salt. Melt butter in saucepan--remove from heat and stir in sugar. Cool slightly, then beat in egg thoroughly. Add vanilla. Fold in flour mixture. Stir in apples and nuts. Spread in 8x8 pan. Bake at 350 degrees 30 minutes. Cut in 2x2 squares while still warm. Makes 16 cookies.

Apple Crumble

An apple crumble is always appreciated and this is one of the best recipes I have ever made! Serve with cream or custard. I sometimes add a tot of brandy to the apple filling to make it a very special pudding. ***for the sweet paste*** 160 grams butter 80 grams sugar 160 grams flour 2 eggs ***for the crumble mix*** 75 grams butter 160 grams sugar 2 eggs 125 grams flour 3 grams baking powder 75 milliliters milk 1 drop vanilla essence ***for the apple filling*** 4 apples 1 gram cinnamon powder 25 raisins a few drops lemon juice 5 grams sugar To prepare the sweet paste: CREAM butter and sugar well. Add flour and mix well. Beat eggs and gently fold into the mixture. Pour it into a greased baking dish. To prepare the crumble filling: Mix butter and sugar well. Add eggs, one at a time and mix well. Then add flour, baking powder, milk and vanilla essence. Keep the filling aside. To prepare the apple filling: Peel, core and dice the apples. Add to the remaining filling ingredients. Mix well and add to the mould. Pour the crumble filling over apple crumble mixture and bake for half an hour at 350* F or till done. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 3804 Calories; 59g Fat (12.8% calories from fat); 44g Protein; 855g Carbohydrate; 42g Dietary Fiber; 343mg Cholesterol; 755mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 1/2 Grain(Starch); 1 Lean Meat; 48 1/2 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 10 Fat; 4 Other Carbohydrates.

Rosemary Mayonnaise

Rosemary is one of my favourite herbs - and this is great with pork or chicken. It is very good with a cold meat buffet. 1 cup homemade mayonnaise 1 1/2 teaspoons orange juice concentrate 1 1/2 teaspoons orange zest 1 1/2 teaspoons rosemary -- chopped 2 tablespoons heavy cream 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice Blend together homemade mayonnaise, orange juice concentrate, orange zest, chopped rosemary, heavy cream and fresh orange juice. Let stand at least one hour to let flavors marry. Cover and refrigerate up to 4 days.

Copper Pennies - (Pickled Carrots)

Something different to do with carrots!

This is very good with cold meat - or served on its own.

2 pounds carrots 1 medium onion 1 medium green pepper 1 can tomato soup 1 cup sugar 3/4 cup vinegar 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon mustard 1/2 teaspoon salt Scrape and slice carrots thinly; peel and chop onion; cut pepper in half, remove seeds, and cut into thin slivers. Combine remaining ingredients, blend well, and pour over vegetables in a large non-metal bowl. Cover and refrigerate several hours before serving. Drain and serve as an appetizer or as a relish.

Breakfast Bar

ideal for lunch boxes or even a late night snack. You can omit the apple but I like the taste and it adds moisture. If you do omit the apple soak the prunes and apricots in a little water and add this to the mixture. make up the buylk by increeasing to 3/4 cup. If you do not have prunes and apricots on their own use a mixture of dried fruits such as apple rings, peaches, apricots (1/12 cups bfore soaking)- soaked in water. 1 cup whole wheat or brown flour 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar 1/2 cup dried apricots -- chopped 1/2 cup dried prunes -- chopped 1/2 cup raisins 1/4 cup wheat bran 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1 apple -- grated 3/4 cup plain yogurt 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 eggs In bowl, mix flours, sugar, apricots, prunes, raisins, bran, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, baking soda and apple; set aside. Whisk together yogurt, oil and eggs; stir into dry ingredients just until combined. Spread in greased 9-inch square cake pan. Bake in 350F/180C oven for 35-40 minutes or until cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool in pan on rack; cut into bars. (Bars can be stored in airtight container for up to 3 days, or individually wrapped and frozen for up to 1 month.)

Chicken Chaat

In Zimbabwe everyone eats chicken and everyone loves curry!

This is not really a curry but a good spiced chicken that can be used as a main meal served with rice and chapatis or roti - serve as a starter, garnished with crisp lettuce leaves, sliced cucumber, raw sliced onion and wedges of lemon or with a selection of chutneys or as a snack to have with drinks - serve on cocktails sticks with a dipping sauce of your choice - or just plain - serve hot or cold!

700 grams chicken breast -- skinned and deboned 1 teaspoon salt or to taste -- (5 g) 3 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped 2 tablespoons oil -- (30 ml) 1 1/2 teaspoons coriander powder -- (7 g) 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder -- (1 g) 3/4 teaspoon chili powder -- (4 g) 4 teaspoons lemon juice -- (20 ml) 30 grams coriander leaves -- chopped fine WASH the chicken and dry on absorbent paper. Cut into 2.5 cm. cubes. Add salt to the garlic and crush to a smooth pulp. Heat the oil in a frying pan, preferably a non stick or cast iron, over medium heat. Add the garlic and fry until it is lightly browned. Add the chicken and fry for about seven minutes stirring constantly - don't let the garlic burn. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder and chili powder. Fry for four minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves.

Carrot Casserole

I have ben unable to blog this last week due to internet and power failures - so the joys of living in Zimbabwe.

This is a good way of using up all the carrots that always seem to be ready at the same time in your vegetable garden!

It can be a vegetarian main dish or an accompnayment to a meat meal.

12 carrots 1 mall onion 1 tablespoon butter or margarine 1/2 cup butter or margarine -- softened 1 large egg -- beaten salt and pepper -- to taste 1 clove garlic -- minced 2 cups crackers or potato chips-- crushed 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Preheat oven to 325F. Clean and cut carrots into large pieces. Cook them in boiling water until soft. Drain well and mash. Sauté onions over medium-high heat in the 1 tablespoon butter or margarine until very soft. In a large bowl, combine carrots, onions, 1/2 cup butter or margarine, egg, salt, pepper and garlic. Mix well. Spray an 8-by-8-inch Pyrex dish with nonstick spray. Place carrot mixture in dish and top with crackers and cheese. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes.

Carrot Cookies

Full of vitamin A and beta carotene - this is a good recipe to use all the carrots you have grown. Enjoy a really good for you snack!

COOKIE DOUGH 1 cup carrots 3/4 cup sugar 3/4 cup butter 1 egg -- well beaten 2 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon mixed spice 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract FROSTING 3 cups icing sugar 1/4 cup Florida orange juice 1 teaspoon butter -- melted 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice milk, as needed Simmer carrots on top of the stove until cooked. Mash well, measure out one cup and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream sugar and butter. Add egg and the five remaining ingredients. Mix thoroughly. Drop by teaspoonful on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 12 - 18 minutes or until golden brown. Combine frosting ingredients, adding milk by teaspoonfuls if too stiff. Ice cookies while still warm. Store in a covered container. 3 - 4 dozen cookies.

Left over mashed potato

Having left over mashed potato - whether it is instant or real is a reality.

I never throw anything away unless necessary so a batch of left over potato is a challenge!

Try this: Whatever potato you have - should be at least a cup 1 egg

salt and pepper

cornflour to mix.

Mix all together - make sure seasoning is good (you can add parsley if you want - or dill or tarragon)

The more potato you have makes the difference between potato cakes and potato balls.

If you have a slack mixture - just place spoons in hot oil and cook until golden brown.

If it is a thick mixture you can form into balls and deep fry.

The cornflour makes the outside very crispy!

Serve with meat, a vegetarian vegetable bake or as a starter with apple sauce.

Chocolate mud cake

I have had a request for this recipe and have been researching it! This seems the best I have found:

This impressive curl-covered dessert makes a great birthday cake or afternoon tea treat. Preparation Time 20 minutes Cooking Time 85 minutes Ingredients (serves 10) Melted butter, to grease 250g butter, chopped 1 x 200g pkt dark cooking chocolate, coarsely chopped 1 tbs instant coffee granules 2 tsp vanilla extract 215g (1 cup) caster sugar 150g (1 cup) self-raising flour 75g (1/2 cup) plain flour 30g (1/4 cup) cocoa powder 3 eggs, lightly whisked 80ml (1/3 cup) buttermilk (I used ordinary milk) 200g dark chocolate melts (or dark chocolate) 200g white chocolate melts (or white chocolate) Chocolate ganache 1 x 200g pkt dark cooking chocolate, coarsely chopped 60ml (1/4 cup) thickened cream Method Preheat oven to 160°C. Brush a round 22cm (base measurement) cake pan with melted butter to lightly grease. Line the base and sides with non-stick baking paper. Place the butter, cooking chocolate, coffee and vanilla in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn't touch the water). Stir with a metal spoon until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth. Add the sugar, combined flour, cocoa powder, egg and buttermilk to the chocolate mixture. Use a balloon whisk to whisk until well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Bake in oven for 1 hour 15 minutes or until crumbs cling to a skewer inserted into the centre. Set aside in the pan to cool completely. Meanwhile, place the dark chocolate melts in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn't touch the water) and stir with a metal spoon until the chocolate melts and is smooth. Spread the chocolate over a clean, dry marble or glass work surface. Set aside until just set but not hard. Holding a chef's knife at a 45-degree angle away from you, scrape the chocolate into thin curls. Repeat with the white chocolate melts. To make the chocolate ganache, place the chocolate and cream in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn't touch the water) and stir with a metal spoon until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth. Set aside for 30 minutes to cool. Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the top and sides of the cake. Set aside for 10 minutes to set. Decorate the cake with dark and white chocolate curls to serve. Notes & tips Freezing tip Make this recipe to the end of step 4. Wrap the cake in 2 layers of plastic wrap and 1 layer of foil. Label, date and freeze the cake for up to four months. Thaw overnight at room temperature. Continue from step 5. Recipe by Michelle Southan

Strawberry Mousse

With a less than 15 minute preparation time and only 97 calories a serving this could not be a better summer pudding.

With stawberries in season it is another way to ring the changes!

It uses up those strawberries that are not quite perfect and is a light and delicious end to any meal. 2 Large Egg Whites -- beaten stiffly 1/2 Cup Caster Sugar 1 Pinch Salt 250 Grams Strawberries 2 Tablespoons Brandy or Vodka 1 Cup Whipped Cream -- optional Beat egg whites with the salt until they hold peaks. Beat in sugar 2 tablespoons at a time and continue to beat until the meringue is stiff and shiny. Puree the strawberries with the brandy or vodka. Fold into the egg whites and then fold in the cream if you are using this. Chill for 3 hours and decorate with extra strawberries.

If you use too many strawberries then this becomes like a strawberry sauce or if frozen like a sorbet.

Pineapple Ham with Avocado Recipe

With avocado season well in the swing why not try this dish for a change. If you cannot get gammon steaks you can use thinner cuts of good ham - or how about a pork chop? It is best served with sweet potatoes but if they are not available chips or a baked potato are also very good. Garnish as you wish - perhaps with chopped tomato and/or olives. 500g crushed, tinned, pineapple 100g brown sugar 2 tbsp dry hot English mustard 1 tsp ground cloves 6 250g gammon steaks 2 ripe avocados, peeled and stoned Combine the pineapple, brown sugar, mustard and cloves. Lay the ham steaks on a baking tray and spread the pineapple mixture over the steaks. Place in an oven pre-heated to 180 c and bake for 20 minutes. Cut the avocado into 1cm slices then lift the gammon steaks onto dinner plates and arrange some 4 or 5 slices of avocado on each gammon steak, Serve with sweet potatoes baked with butter salt and pepper.

Salmon Quiche

A simple and different quiche - for a main meal add a salad and some garlic bread - as a starter it needs nothing to enhance it! 1 large tin pink salmon 1 pie crust (9-inch pie pan) 3 large potatoes -- peeled and sliced thinly 2 eggs 1/2 cup milk 1 cup cottage or cream cheese 2 tablespoons dill (preferably fresh) -- chopped 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper Layer potato slices in pie crust, then add salmon. Mix remaining ingredients in mixing bowl and pour carefully over pie. Bake at 325 degrees F for 25-30 minutes, or until knife blade comes out clean. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

'Sausage' And Mashers

now we can get vegetarian sausages this is a favourite meal of ours - but if you want meat - use good pork or beef instead.

2 1/2 pounds small potatoes -- rinsed = (peeled if desired) 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 large onion -- halved lengthwise, and sliced - (2 cups) 1 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups vegetable or mushroom broth 1/3 cup red wine 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 package soy "sausage" links - (8 oz) -- thawed if frozen, cut into bite-size pieces or use real pork sausages (grilled) for non-vegetarians 1 cup low-fat milk -- heated = (or soy milk) 1 teaspoon butter or margarine Bring large pot of water to a boil. Add potatoes and salt and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, heat oil in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, sugar and thyme and cook, stirring often, until onion slices are golden. Stir in flour and cook, stirring, 2 minutes. Stir in broth, wine and soy sauce. Simmer until thickened, stirring continuously. Add "sausage" to gravy and simmer until heated through. Drain and rinse potatoes; mash with potato masher (add chopped or dried dill or horseradish if liked) . Add warm milk and butter and whip potatoes with hand mixer until fluffy. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve mashed potatoes topped with gravy and "sausages." This goes well with chopped spinach and popovers!

Odette's Microwave Chocolate Cake

Not only is this quick but it is fat free! Takes about 15 minutes from mixing to baked! Ideal for a school cake sale - you can even make it on the morning if you forgot about it the night before! 1 cup flour 1 cup sugar (you can use brown or white) 3 eggs 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 cup milk 3 tablespoons cocoa powder 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond essence - or mint - what ever you fancy! Put all ingredients into a food mixer and turn onto high until all are mixed. Put into a cake baker that can be used in a microwave - no need to grease if it is a pottery or microwave dish. Turn microwave to full power and bake for 8 minutes - it is done when the cake comes away from the sides of the dish. Cool for 5 minutes before turning out - decorate as you wish. This cake is moist and will keep for some days. It can also be used for a dessert - dribble with whisky or brandy and cover with cream - place berries on top - lovely!

Couscous and Zucchini

This can be served as a vegetable/starch accompaniment to meat or as a main course for vegetarians. If served as a main course a rich sweet and good cheese can follow. 1 1/2 cups couscous 1/2 cup red or yellow pepper -- chopped fine 2 teaspoons olive oil 2 medium zucchini or yellow squash -- sliced 1/4 inch thick 1 serrano or jalapeño pepper -- chopped fine (to taste!) 2 teaspoons garlic -- chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh basil -- chopped fine 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon salt Bring chicken broth to a boil. Add couscous, red pepper and cover. Remove from heat and let set for 5 minutes. Heat a medium frying pan. Add olive oil and cook zucchini until tender. Add the remaining ingredients and continue to cook for a few more minutes. Mound couscous in center of a large platter. Arrange zucchini slices around. Serve warm or cold.

Rosemary Mayonnaise

Want something really different to serve with pork or chicken - or even over a salad - try this - full of flavour and sure to get compliments from family and friends!

It is also so good with chips or french fries! A bacon and tomato sandwich also benefits from its flavour!

It can be made ahead - although it takes so little time you can make it on the day you want to use it. 1 cup homemade mayonnaise or good shop bought 1 1/2 teaspoons orange juice concentrate (use can use Mazoe or similar - or if you want a lighter flavor use fresh) 1 1/2 teaspoons orange zest 1 1/2 teaspoons rosemary -- chopped 2 tablespoons heavy cream 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice Blend together homemade mayonnaise, orange juice concentrate, orange zest, chopped rosemary, heavy cream and fresh orange juice. Let stand at least one hour to let flavours marry. Cover and refrigerate up to 4 days.

Rocket Salad

Rocket grows so easily in Zimbabwe that this salad could become a staple in your collections. It can accompany any chicken or egg dish or be used as a starter. 1/2 pound fresh rocket

1/4 pound Parmesan - in one piece === LEMON VINAIGRETTE === 1/4 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice - (2 lemons) 1/2 cup good olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper Fill a sink with cold water and toss the rocket for a few minutes to clean. Spin-dry the leaves and place them in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour enough dressing on the rocket to moisten. Toss well and place the salad on individual plates. With a very sharp knife or a vegetable peeler, shave the Parmesan into large shards and arrange them on the arugula.

Egg Puff

This is a very good dish for a brunch or leisurely breakfast - it also makes a light luncheon dish or supper. serve with rolls and good quality salted butter!

whole green chilies -- split and seeded or green peppers for a milder flavour 4 ounces cheddar cheese -- grated 6 Fresh Eggs 1 10-ounce can whole kernel corn 3/4 cup milk 1 tablespoon flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt Cheddar cheese -- grated Preheat oven to 350ºF In a greased 7 × 11 baking dish, layer split chilies and first amount of cheese. Combine eggs, corn, milk, flour, baking powder and garlic salt; mix well. Pour over chilies, top with Cheddar cheese. Bake at 350ºF for 30 minutes until puffed and browned. Serve with Salsa.

Apple Tart

Now apples are plentiful is the time to make apple pies and tarts. this one is different as it is open face and has a custart filling with the apples. No need to serve with cream - just as it is - at room temperature. -----Pastry----- 1 1/3 Cups Flour 1 Pinch Salt 7 Tablespoons Butter -- cut in small pieces 2 Tablespoons Sugar 1 Egg Yolk 3 Tablespoons Ice Water -- (approximately) -----Filling----- 2 Pounds Apples 3 Tablespoons Lemon Juice 3 Eggs 1/2 Cup Sugar 1/2 Cup Whipping Cream 1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla To make pastry: Sift flour and salt into large bowl. Cut in butter until mixture resembles bread crumbs. With a fork, lightly mix in sugar, egg yolk and enough ice water to make a dough. Press into a ball and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate 30 minutes. On a floured surface, roll out dough to fit a 9-inch pan, including sides. Place dough in pan without stretching. Pierce bottom with fork. Preheat oven to 400. To make filling: Core and slice apples. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Arrange apples in pastry shell. In a medium bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and creamy. Add cream and vanilla. Pour egg mixture over apples. Bake 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 350 and bake 25 minutes longer or until custard filling is firm.

Baked Lentils

This dish can be served and used as you would baked beans. With chips and a fried egg it is a nourishing and complete main course. I have always enjoyed using lentils in cooking - they make very good vegetarian savory loaves and of course no Indian meal would be complete without a good dahl. 1 cup lentils 2 1/2 cups water 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar 2 tablespoons ketchup 2 tablespoons molasses 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard 4 slices bacon -- diced and cooked In saucepan, combine lentils, water, onion, and salt. Bring to a boil; cover and simmer 45 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients. Turn into 1-quart casserole dish and bake at 350 for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Mock Babas

This is a quick alternative to the normal Rum Baba - the fruit makes a lovely sticky topping. 200 Grams Mincemeat 100 Grams Caster Sugar 100 Grams Butter 2 Large Eggs -- beaten 100 Grams Flour -- sifted **** Syrup ***** 150 Grams Caster Sugar 125 Milliliters Water 25 Milliliters Brandy Or Dark Rum Lightly grease ramekin dishes. Divide fruit mincemeat between dishes and spread on base (dried fruit with brandy may be substituted). Cream sugar and butter together and beat in the eggs - fold in flour and spoon mixture over mincemeat. Bake at medium high until firm - about 8 minutes. Leave to stand. Microwave all syrup ingredients 2 minutes - stir - microwave on high a further 3 minutes - cool slightly and add brandy or rum. Spoon syrup over babas and serve warm or cold with whipped cream - decorate if liked with whipped cream and glace cherries. You make make one large baba if preferred.

Wine And Apricot Dessert

Now we can get tinned fruit again this is a wizz of a dessert - cool, creamy and low on calories! Very good after a meal of venison or beef. 2 tablespoons gelatin powder -- unflavored 1 cup sugar 1 cup apricot nectar or juice from the tinned apricots liquidised with remaining apricot halves 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 cup sherry or dry white wine 8 apricot halves -- canned 1. Mix 2unflavored gelatin with 1 cup sugar. Add 1-1/2 cups boiling water. Stir until dissolved. 2. Add apricot juice or nectar, lemon juice, and sherry or wine. 3. Put a drained apricot half in bottom of decorative glass or dish. Divide gelatin mixture evenly over apricots. Chill. 4. Garnish with glace cherries if desired!

Serve with cream and sponge fingers if you feel them necessary!

"Irish Coffee" Pudding

We have a group of friends who always insist on Irish Coffee at the end of our lunches! Although this a pudding and coffee in one I don't think I would dare to serve it instead of the real thing! I will have to save this for other occasions! 6 eggs 8 ounces sugar 1 cup very strong coffee 1 1/2 ounces powdered gelatin 1/3 cup whiskey* 10 fluid ounces whipping cream 3 ounces crushed walnuts *You can also use Irish Mist. Separate the yolks from the whites of eggs. In a bowl, cream with yolks with the sugar. Heat the coffee until hot but not boiling: add the gelatin and dissolve it in the coffee. Add this mixture to the yolks and sugar. Beat well and put the bowl over a pot of boiling water. Continue beating until mixture begins to thicken. Remove from heat, and when the bowl has cooled a little, place it over cracked ice and continue stirring. When the mixture is on the point of setting, whip the cream and fold it in. Add the whiskey or Irish Mist. Lastly, fold in the well-beaten egg whites. Pour into a soufflé‚ dish that has a double thickness of parchment paper tied around it: the paper should come up 3 inches above the top of the soufflé‚ dish, or fill individual souffle moulds. When set cover with 1 cup heavy cream, whipped, sweetened with 1 T granulated sugar. scatter with nuts or other decorations. You can serve this with berries if you like!

Avocados With Blue Cheese

A new way to use avocado as a starter - tasty and different. Serve with chips or biscuits if you wish. This can also be used as a dip to have with drinks.

Don't use too strongly flavoured blue cheese as this will spoil the delicate flavour of the avocado.

2 1/2 ounces Roquefort cheese 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice salt freshly ground white pepper 2 avocados Boston lettuce leaves sliced ripe olives 1. Mash cheese with parsley into coarse paste in medium bowl with fork. Whisk olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the lemon juice in small bowl; stir into cheese mixture. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 2. Cut avocados lengthwise in half; remove pits. Scoop two thirds of the flesh out of each avocado half, leaving a thin shell, and add to cheese mixture; mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning. 3. Sprinkle insides of avocado shells with remaining lemon juice; place on serving plate lined with lettuce leaves. Spoon cheese mixture into avocado shells, dividing evenly. 4. Garnish with olives and/or paprika.

Party Cheese Balls

16 oz cream cheese or mozarrella shredded 2 cups shredded sharp natural cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon chopped olives stuffed with pimento 1 tablespoon chopped green pepper 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion 2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 dash cayenne and salt finely chopped pecans or seseme seeds

paprika Combine cheeses. Mix until well blended. Add remaining ingredients except pecans. Mix well and chill. Shape into balls and roll in chopped pecans or seceme seeds and paprika mixed. Serve with crackers.

The balls may be whatever size you wish -make a large one and serve surrounded with crackers for a cheese board.

Glazed beetroot in the microwave

This is an unusual way to serve beets and much better than the cold pickled variety!

beets - think in the region of 2 to 3 small ones per person

1 onion

Balsamic vinegar

Orange juice White wine

Cook beets in water with the skins on Drain when cooked and cool

Skin beets and chop into small cubes

Chop onion and cook in microwave for about 2 minutes with a little oil (I use a Pyrex dish)

Place beets with cooked onions and sprinkle with balsamic vinegar

Just cover with white wine and orange juice - mixed in equal quantities

Cover dish and cook for 5 minutes on high. If there is too much liquid cook a little longer until you get a syrupy sauce. If too dry add a little water and heat through

Serve with pork Schnitzels or chicken breasts and a baked potato or mashed potatoes.

An avocado and olive salad goes well with this.

STUFFED TOMATO WITH CHOPPED BEEF

This makes a good buffet dish - a starter or a main meal if served with some creamy mashed potato. The variations are mentioned at the bottom of the recipe which can be made with almost any vegetable that is suitable for stuffing. 2 lbs. chopped beef (fine but not like mince) 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder --or 2 cloves mashed 4 tablespoons chopped fresh dill leaves --or 1 tsp. dried dill 2 tablespoons salad oil 1 cup cooked rice 8 large firm tomatoes 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons oil 12 ounces canned tomato paste 12 ounces water (1 1/2 cups) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon garlic powder or crushed cloves to taste tomatoes green olives In a large frying pan fry the chopped beef, 1 tsp.salt, ½ tsp. pepper, 1 tsp. garlic powder (or 2 cloves mashed) and 4 Tbs. chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp. dried dill) in 2 Tbs.oil until meat browns. Add 1 cup cooked rice and blend. Cut a slit in 8 large tomatoes (very firm), halfway across the center. Squeeze at the sides to open the slit. Scoop out all the flesh from inside of tomatoes with a spoon. Refill tomato with beef mixture and close the tomato. Melt 2 Tbs. butter and 2 Tbs. oil in a large pan. Sauté the tomatoes carefully in the fat, rolling them gently until they become dark red on all sides. Remove the tomatoes with the oil and place in a casserole or heavy saucepan. Prepare sauce as follows and pour over the tomatoes: Combine 2 6-oz. cans tomato paste thinned with 2 6-oz. cans water, ½ tsp. salt, 1 tsp. cinnamon and 1 tsp. garlic powder or crushed garlic. Simmer the tomatoes gently over low flame for 10 to 15 minutes until sauce is cooked. Remove carefully to a 15-inch round platter. Surround with raw tomatoes cut in thick slices. Top each slice with green or black olives. If there is more i filling left over after filling the tomatoes place it in a suitable pan and bake it alongside the tomatoes. This can also be made with cucumbers. The cucumbers are peeled, cut lengthwise, scooped out, filled and finished as below. You may also use eggplants. Peel small eggplants, remove the tops, scoop out interiors and proceed in the same manner. The cucumber dish is garnished with fresh cucumber slices and the eggplant with tomato and cucumber slices overlapping all around the edge.

Banana peanut Cake from Ghana

I lived in Ghana for a number of years and bananas and peanuts were always available. This cake is an ideal way to use up ripe bananas that you have left over.

A more refined and lighter cake can be made using other nuts of your choice - macadamias are very good!

1 1/4 cups butter or margarine -- softened (butter is better!) 2 cups sugar 4 eggs -- beaten 4 1/4 cups white flour (brown also works)

1 teaspoon salt 4 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 8 bananas -- mashed 1/2 cup peanuts -- coarsely chopped 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and beat to combine. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, salt, baking powder, and Baking soda. Stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture alternately with the bananas and peanuts. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack. Stir together the 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the top of the cake as soon as you remove it from the oven.

Garlic Chicken

This sounds like a lot of garlic but the flavour mellows beautifully.

Serve with green salad and some creamy mashed potatoes. 1 whole chicken -- cut into 8 pieces 1/2 cup olive oil -- plus 2 tablespoons olive oil 10 sprigs fresh thyme 40 garlic cloves -- peeled Salt -- to taste Freshly-ground black pepper -- to taste Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil and brown on both sides in a wide fry pan over high heat. Remove from heat, add oil, thyme, and garlic cloves. Put in a covered dish and bake for 1 1/2 hours. Remove chicken from the oven, let rest for 5 to 10 minutes, carve, and serve. This recipe yields 6 servings.

Odette Cocktail

This was invented for me by a bartender in Malaga, Spain - it is really refreshing on a hot day - but beware it is strong!

1 Tot Whiskey 1 Tot Gin 1 Tot Creme De Menthe Ice -- crushed 1 Large Maraschino Cherry or Glace Cherry 1 Medium Mint Leaf Shake whiskey, gin and creme de menthe in a cocktail shaker. Pour over plenty of crushed ice. Garnish with the cherry into which the mint leaf has been inserted. Serve very cold.

Cheese, Mushrooms And Brandy On Toast

A lovely supper dish when you don't want to cook - the flavours are wonderful and the brandy ensures that your cheese is creamy. this is very tasty and a firm family favourite. very good served as a late night snack - garnish with parsley if you wish! 250 Grams Mushrooms -- sliced 2 Cloves Garlic -- sliced 1 Tablespoon Butter 1/2 Shot Brandy 1/2 Pound Cheese -- grated 8 Slices Whole-Wheat Bread Slices -- toasted (you can use white but it does not bring out the flavours so well) Fry mushrooms and garlic in the butter until slightly cooked. Add brandy. Add cheese and melt stirring well.

You may want to add some salt and pepper to taste Pour over toast and serve immediately.

Tomato And Onion Mealie Bake

This is like polenta - I make my mealie meal with milk and salt and it should be semi firm.

This is great with meat at a braai or serve with a cheese sauce it makes a good vegetarian entree - serve salad or spinach lightly cooked and chopped. 375 Grams Mealie Meal -- cooked 2 Large Onions -- sliced 2 Cloves Garlic -- crushed 1 Large Green Pepper -- chopped 450 Grams Tomatoes, Canned Mixed Herbs -- to taste Salt And Pepper -- to taste 250 Grams Cheddar Cheese -- grated Fry onions, garlic for 5 minutes. Add the chopped green pepper, tomatoes, herbs and seasoning. and simmer for 10 minutes. Spoon half the mealie meal into an oblong dish - cover with tomato mixture and sprinkle cheese thickly over the tomato mixture. Repeat layers ending with cheese and bake at 180 degrees for 20 minutes.

Make Ahead Bran Muffins

This is a wonderful recipe and keeps very well - I have even taken it into the bush and provided fresh muffins with morning coffee! Must admit i had a small portable oven!

They also cook well in a microwave! Reduce time to about 6 to 8 minutes depending on your microwave.

2 1/2 Cups Whole-Wheat Flour -- sifted (In a pinch you can use all purpose flour) 2 Cups Wheat Bran 1/2 Teaspoon Salt 2 1/2 Teaspoons Baking Soda 2 Large Eggs -- beaten with 1/2 Cup Oil -- beaten with 2 Cups Milk -- beaten with 1 1/2 Cups Dark Brown Sugar -- beaten with 1 Teaspoon Vanilla 1 Cup Mixed Fruit -- dried 1/2 Cup Candied Cherries (of available) 1/2 Cup Macadamia Nuts -- chopped (or nuts of your own choice) Mix dry ingredients. Add beaten ingredients to dry ingredients. Add fruit and nuts and mix well. Put into a covered container and leave in fridge until needed. Stir up mixture when needed. Put a little mixture into patty tins and bake at 190 degrees c for 15 minutes.

Zimbabwe Meat Loaf

In cold weather there is nothing more satisfying than a good slice of meat loaf served with either a baked potato or mashed potato. this recipe will serve six and is economical as well as tasty. 1 pound ground beef, lean 1 large chopped onion -- finely chopped 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons tomato sauce 1 large egg 1 tablespoon flour 1 tablespoon dry bread crumbs 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 pinch thyme 1 slice bread -- thickly sliced 1/4 cup milk 1 roll aluminum foil 2 large eggs -- hard boiled and shelled 3 bacon slices Remove crust from slice of bread and soak in milk - squeeze dry. Mix all together except foil, hard boiled eggs and bacon - and shape in the form of a loaf on a greased baking tray. Make a dent in the center and insert 2 hard boiled and peeled eggs - close up firmly. Place slices of bacon across the top sideways. Crimp up oiled tin foil along the sides to keep its shape. Cook until golden at 500 degrees.

Jo Mazotti

My all time favourite pasta dish - I have served this to many people including Colin Wilson, the author, and still enjoy it myself on many occasions! 1/4 Cup Butter 2 Pounds Pork Tenderloin -- minced 8 Large Onions -- chopped 8 Cloves Garlic -- chopped 400 Grams Tomato Paste 2 Cups Dry White Wine And Water 1 Bunch Celery -- chopped 1 Can Onion Soup 8 Large Green Peppers -- finely chopped 1 Pound Mushrooms -- sliced Mixed Herbs -- to taste Salt And Pepper -- to taste 1 1/2 Pounds Cheddar -- diced 500 Grams Shell Pasta Wine, Red -- to moisten Fry pork, onions and garlic until onions are transparent. Add celery and peppers and saute until soft. Add mushrooms and saute for 1 minute. Add soups, water or water and wine, herbs and seasonings and remove from heat. Boil noodles until cooked but firm - cook in a multi server if possible. Add drained noodles and cheese to the vegtable and pork mixture and cook 20 minutes in a pressure cooker or 1 hour on top of stove or 20 minutes in the microwave on medium high - stir well throughout the cooking to stop burning. MAY BE PREPARED THE DAY BEFORE - IF SO REHEAT IN THE MICROWAVE AND ADD EXTRA WINE TO MOISTEN - TEST SEASONING. Serving Ideas : Garlic bread, green salad, red wine. NOTES : Use herbs such as oregano, marjoram,basil - condensed tomato soup may be used - 3 cans instead of tomato paste although the flavour is not the same. Celery soup may replace the onion soup for a more distinctive flavour.

Chinese Sweet Or Red Pork

This recipe comes from our very dear friend Dennis Kung - it is a wonderful and authentic way to serve pork - serve with rice. 1 Kilogram Pork Tenderloin 4 Tablespoons Brown Sugar 1 Tablespoon Honey -- large 1 Tablespoon Salt 3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce 4 Tablespoons Brandy Red Food Coloring Cut pork into slices. Marinade in the remaining ingredients for 1 day or more. Place pork slices onto a grid and bake in an oven at 300 degrees until well done but not brown - a little oil or butter on the slices will keep them moist if there is no fat on the meat.

BEEF ESCALLOP CORDON BLEU A LA ITALIAN - Mrs Buckwell's original

Simplicity itself - but very effective! 600 grams beef fillet steak -- sliced thin 100 grams butter 1 small onion -- grated 1 tablespoon flour 4 fluid ounces sherry or brandy 7 1/2 ounces chicken stock 1 teaspoon tomato paste 1 bay leaf 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 1/2 pounds spinach -- cooked 2 tablespoons cream 1/2 pound cheddar cheese -- sliced 3 large tomatoes -- sliced Cut beef fillet into escallops 3" x 3" and beat well until very thin. Salt and pepper and brown quickly in butter - keep warm. Add to the remaining butter the onion and fry until transparent - add flour, sherry, stock, tomato paste, bay leaf, salt and pepper to taste - simmer until rich and creamy - remove bay leaf. Chop cooked spinach and add salt, pepper and cream. Place spinach down the center of a long serving dish - on this place 1 escallop covered with a slice of cheese and a tomato slice which has been sauteed in butter. Repeat until spinach is covered. Spoon sauce on both sides of dish and place in a hot oven until cheese is melted and all is hot. Serve with chipped potatoes or mashed potatoes.

Brandy Bombs

These are very good with coffee after dinner. 50 Grams Dark Chocolate 25 Milliliters Golden Syrup 25 Milliliters Brandy 20 Milliliters Whisky 100 Grams Marie Biscuits -- CRUSHED 50 Grams Pecans or othwer nuts -- FINELY CHOPPED Icing Sugar , Cocoa, coconut or coloured sugar -- TO Coat BLEND ALL INGREDIENTS except coating - IN A LARGE BOWL. ROLL TEASPOON SIZE AMOUNTS INTO BALLS AND DREDGE IN CHOSEN COATING- PLACE IN PAPER CASES AND/OR PACK ON TRAYS - REFRIGERATE UNTIL FIRM. BEST AFTER ONE WEEKS STORAGE AND MAY BE KEPT FOR UP TO THREE WEEKS.

Banana Cocktail

An unusual way to serve bananas as a starter.

Very good before a heavy meat dish.

4 bananas -- sliced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 cans tuna -- drained and flaked 1 chopped onion 2 tablespoons chopped gherkins OR 2 tablespoons chopped olives ( green or black) 1 tablespoon grated cheese FOR DECORATION Paprika Slices of olives or gherkins SAUCE 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 2 tablespoons cake flour Salt and pepper -- to taste 1/4 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup dry white wine 1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese 1/4 cup fresh cream Sprinkle bananas with lemon juice. Mix all the ingredients for cocktail. Spoon into seven cocktail shells. Cover with sauce*. Sprinkle with grated cheese over each cocktail portion. Decorate with a slice of gherkin or olive, and sprinkle with paprika. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 350º degrees and serve warm. To Make Sauce: Melt butter, flour, and pepper in a saucepan. Add stock and wine and bring to the boil. Stir constantly. Simmer for one minute. Add 1/2 cup of grated cheese. Let cool off. Add cream.

Candied Cherry Tomatoes

This is a tasty and easy way to use cherry tomatoes. We always have lots of them and it is good to know as many ways as possible to serve them! 3 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup onions -- chopped 4 cups cherry tomatoes 1/2 cup packed brown sugar -- or honey 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs -- buttered Wash and drain cherry tomatoes; remove stems. Melt butter in frying pan Add tomatoes, 6 tablespoons brown sugar or honey and salt. Cook very slowly until liquid evaporates. Be careful not to let tomatoes stick or scorch. Put mixture in baking dish. Top with buttered bread crumbs and remaining brown sugar or honey. Bake in preheated 350-degree oven until crumbs are browned about 20 minutes. This can also be done in a microwave - using a Pyrex dish - cook the tomatoes as instructed - cover with the crumbs and either bake in a convection oven or grill. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Chili Crusted Chicken Breasts with Chili Sauce

This is a quick easy and tasty way to serve chicken. serve with chips or rice and a good salad. 6 skinless chicken breasts - beaten flat 1/2 cup cornmeal 2 teaspoons chili powder (2 to 3 teaspoons) or to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tin chopped tomatoes seasoned with chili power or flakes to taste 1/2 cup fine shredded sharp cheese Combine cornmeal and chili powder; dip breasts to coat both sides. Heat olive oil in large skillet over high heat until hot; brown breats 1 minutes on each side. Pour tomato sauce over cutlets. Cover and heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Top with cheese; serve.