It's been 3 weeks since I've talked about food - you KNOW i've been busy!!
I would think a slow cooker would be hard to make yeasted bread in. A lot of what OhD says seems right. Yeast is so particular! Up here at altitude, it's very difficult to cook with and I have to use a thermometer to test the water to make sure it is exactly 105F before I add the yeast. Even then it doesn't always work.
Easter treat 'huh? Well, traditionally in the south you eat a pork roast (or ham) for easter dinner. Since I no longer eat meat, I have to substitute something "roasted" instead as a main dish, and then sides can be more traditional.
Homey Hearty Lentil Loaf
2 c dry brown lentils, rinsed
1 bay leaf
1 c uncooked fine bulgur wheat
1 c soft whole-wheat bread crumbs
1 egg, beaten (or egg substitute like "egg replacer" or ground flax seed)
1 tbsp ketchup
1 med onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tsp dried thyme
2 tsps dried oregano
1 tsp dried tarragon
salt and freshly ground pepper
3 tbsps tomato paste or sauce
1. Place lentils and bay leaf in a saucepan with 6 cups water. Bring to a oil, reduce heat, cover and simmer until lentils are soft and water has been absorbed, about 45 min
2. Combine bulgur and 2 cups water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 15 min
3. Preheat oven to 350. Transfer lentils to a large mixing bowl. Add bulgur and remaining ingredients except tomato paste or sauce. Mix well with your hands until thoroughly combined.
4. Pat mixture into a 9 inch loaf pan. Bake for 40 min until firm but not dry. During last minutes of baking, brush top with tomato paste or sauce. Let cool for 15 min. Cut into slices and serve warm.
5. HINT: Omit tomato sauce and top with gravy of choice (like mushroom yum!)
This would make a nice side dish, very spring-like with just a touch of warmth.
A refreshing drink to get ready for summer!
And of course, DESSERT!!!
Check out these Vegan apps that I ran across. I haven't tried to make them yet.
enjoy, and Happy Easter!!