Kugels

Garlic and Onion Kugels

Kugels originally were made from bread and flour, but later made with egg noodles and cottage cheese.  Later eggs were incorporated into the mix.  It is a specialty for Jewish holidays that is thought to bring unusual spiritual blessings.  Traditionally Kugels are baked in a single large pan, but using a muffin tin makes for the perfect serving size and each one has its own tasty browned edges.

1 cup pasta shells

1 stick butter

2 onions, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1¼ cup cottage cheese

1¼ cup sour cream

1 tbsp poppy seeds

4 eggs

½ tsp pepper

1 tsp salt

Put oven rack in middle position and preheat to 425°. 

Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and rinse.

In heavy skillet, melt butter over medium heat.  Brush muffin tin with some of the butter.  Add onions and garlic to butter and cook, stirring often until well browned (15-20 minutes).  Transfer buttered veggies to large bowl and stir in pasta, sour cream, cottage cheese and poppy seeds.  Lightly beat eggs with salt and pepper and add to past mixture.

Spoon into muffin tins (fill to tops).  Bake until puffed and golden, 25-30 minutes.  Loosen edges of kugels with thin knife as soon as they come out of the oven, then let cool about 5-10 minutes before removing from the pan.  Serve as a side dish with meat or makes a great breakfast treat.

© Crackerberries 2012

Apple Crisp

Apple Brandied Crisp

½ cup Gran Gala (Triple Orange Liqueur)

½ cup raisins

2/3 cup flour

½ cup brown sugar

¼ tsp cinnamon

¼ cup salt

2/3 cup whole grain quick oats

6 tbsp butter

2 tbsp honey

4 large apples

Place brandy in microwave safe measuring cup and heat on high for 30 seconds.  Add raisins and set aside. 

Preheat oven to 425°.

Peel, core and slice apples into wedges.  Place in 1½ quart baking dish/pie plate and drizzle with honey.

In small bowl combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and butter.  Using pastry cutter work the mixture until it resembles coarse meal.  Add oats and stir just to combine.

Stir brandy and raisins into apples and toss to combine.  Sprinkle with topping.  Bake in 425° oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown and apples are bubbly.  Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

© Crackerberries 2012