PORK, SWEET POTATO, AND APPLE STEW

3 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces, patted dry with paper towels

1 tbsp fennel seeds, crushed

salt and pepper, to your taste

1/4 cup olive oil

10 cups chicken stock

5 thyme sprigs, plus thyme leaves for serving optional

1 bay leaf

2 lbs sweet potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces

2 med. fennel bulbs, chopped

1 medium Gala or Honeycrisp apple, seeded cored chopped

3 tbsp Dijon mustard

2 tbsp cornstarch

Season pork with fennel seeds, salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Brown pork in two batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown all over, 10-14 minutes. Discard fat and return pork to Dutch oven.

Add stock, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a strong simmer. Cook, loosely covered, until pork is very tender and falling apart, about an hour. Skim and discard any fat.

Add sweet potatoes, fennel and apple. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a strong simmer. Cook, loosely covered, until pork is very tender and vegetables are almost tender, 15-18 minutes.

Whisk together mustard and cornstarch in a small bowl. Transfer 1/4 cup broth to mustard mixture and whisk until smooth. Add to the pot and cook, stirring, until broth is slightly thickened and vegetables are fork-tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with thyme leaves, if desired.

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

recipe basics and photo -Country Living 2025

PUMPKIN OATMEAL RAISIN NUT COOKIES

2 cups white whole wheat flour

1 1/3 cups quick oats
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup Splenda Granular
1/2 cup packed Splenda Brown Sugar Blend
1 cup canned pumpkin or cooked pumpkin puree
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
3/4 cup raisins, optional (I omit)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

In a medium bowl combine the flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt; set aside.

In a large mixer bowl beat butter, Splenda both white and brown, until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin, egg, and vanilla extract mixing well. Add the flour mixture and mix in well. Stir in the nuts and raisins. Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets.

Bake at 350 degrees for 14 to 16 minutes until cookie are lightly browned and set in the centers. Allow to cool on baking sheets for a couple of minutes then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Yield: 4 dozen cookies
Diabetics should be limited to 2 cookies a day!

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PICADILLO PITA WEDGES

1 lb lean ground beef or chicken

1 (16-oz) jar salsa

1 medium onion, chopped

1/2 cup raisins

1/4 cup chopped pimiento-stuffed olives

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds

Toasted slivered almonds

Toasted whole wheat pita wedges

In a large skillet, cook meat until browned. Drain off any fat and place meat in a 3 1/2 to 4-quart slow cooker. Add the salsa, onion, raisins, olives, vinegar, garlic, cinnamon and cumin.

Place lid on cooker and cook on low 6 to 8 hours or on high 3 to 4 hours. Stir in the 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds. Sprinkle with the additional toasted slivered almonds and serve with the toasted pita wedges.

Serving size of 1/4 cup with 4 pita wedges = 127 calories, 5 g fat (1 sat), 257 mg sodium, 13 g carbs, 9 g protein.

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EASY HEALTHY PIZZA DOUGH

1 cup white whole-wheat self-rising flour

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

Mix together in a bowl until a ball forms.  Remove to a lightly floured surface and knead about 5 minutes or so until elastic.  Shape onto a pizza pan, add toppings and bake at 425 degrees until browned.

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FENNEL ASPARAGUS QUICHE

1 sugar-free pie crust, unbaked

1 lb fresh asparagus, cut into pieces approx. 1-inch long
1 medium-sized fennel bulb
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
3/4 cup fat-free milk
2 tbsp flour
3 eggs
1 tsp basil
1/2 tsp salt
dash of fresh ground black pepper
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Line a 9-inch pie plate or quiche pan with the pie crust. Crimp edges as desired. Using a fork, prick the crust on bottom and sides. Line crust with a double thickness of regular aluminum foil or one thickness of heavy-duty foil. Bake at 425 degrees for 8 minutes. Remove foil and back another 4 minutes or until dry and set. Remove crust from the oven and lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees.

Trim top off the fennel and save a few leaves for garnish. Thinly slice bulb. In a medium covered saucepan, cook the fennel, asparagus, and onion in enough boiling water to cover for about 5 minutes, just until tender.

In a medium bowl, using a wire whisk, combine the milk and flour until smooth. Add eggs, basil, salt, and pepper, whisking to combine.

Spoon the vegetable mixture into the crust. Sprinkle the cheese over the vegetables then slowly and gently pour the egg mixture overall. Bake at 375 degrees for approximately a half hour or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Chop the reserved fennel leaves to garnish top.

Note: If crust should start to become too brown, cover edge with a strip of aluminum foil.

Yield: 6 servings
Per serving: 290 calories, 15 g (6 sat) fat, 122 mg cholesterol, 524 mg sodium, 28 g carbs, 3 g fiber, 12 g protein.
Diabetic exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 1/2 starch, 1 meat, 1 1/2 fat. Carb choices: 2

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APPLE-WALNUT CAKE

Remember this is a dessert and should be treated as such. Make this and share it with family, friends, co-workers, etc. No more than 1 piece a day for the diabetics.

3/4 cup white whole-wheat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp apple pie spice
3/4 tsp salt
2 1/2 cups chopped Granny Smith apples
3 tbsp packed Splenda Brown Sugar Blend
3/4 cup Splenda Granulated
4 1/2 tbsp butter, melted
3/4 cup fat-free milk
3 large eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

In a small bowl combine the flours, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt; set aside.

Place the apples in the prepared baking pan. In a medium bowl beat the Splenda Brown sugar blend, Splenda granulated, and butter in a medium bowl with a wire whisk until well blended. Whisk in the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the flour mixture until smooth. Pour the batter over the apples. Sprinkle walnuts over the batter.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 55 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the apples are tender. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before cutting to serve. Serve while warm and should there be any leftovers, refrigerate them.

Yield: 9 servings.

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of sugar-free frozen yogurt. 

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VEGGIE CHOPPED SALAD

3 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli

3 cups finely chopped cauliflower

3 cups finely chopped celery

2 cups frozen peas, thawed

6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

1 1/3 cups olive oil mayonnaise 

1/4 cup granular Splenda or Stevia

2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp cider vinegar

1/4 tsp salt, optional - I omit

3/4 cup unsalted peanuts 

In a large bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients.

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweetener, cheese, vinegar and salt, if using, until well blended. Add to the salad mixture, toss to coat. Just before serving, stir in the peanuts.

Yield: 12 servings

I got the initial idea for this salad from a 10-year-old magazine.

I redid it to be diabetic friendly.

 

EASY NO KNEAD DINNER ROLLS

As with all breads, diabetics should eat with a protein item and only one roll per meal. Most diabetics can get by with this. Only you know your body and what you can tolerate. A roll should only be eaten with a very low carb meal.

2 pkgs dry yeast
2 cups warm water
1 egg, beaten
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup Splenda granular
1/3 cup shortening
2 tsps salt
4 1/2 to 5 cups bread flour
2 cups white whole-wheat flour
melted butter for brushing hot rolls, optional

Dissolve the yeast in the warm water; stir in the egg. Add the sugar, Splenda, shortening, salt and at least 4 1/2 cups of the bread flour and the whole-wheat flour. If the dough seems too thin, add up to another 1/2 cup of flour. Cover bowl with foil and refrigerate for 2 hours. Make into rolls and place in a pan that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Cover pan with a towel and set in a warm place; let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes or until browned. Immediately after removing from the oven brush with melted butter.

Note: Sprinkle buttered top with some cracked black pepper or sesame seeds for a unique touch.

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CHICKEN LETTUCE ROLL-UPS

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into small cubes

2 tbsp hoisin sauce
2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
4 scallions, chopped
1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
1 cup sliced water chestnuts
12 Bibb lettuce leaves

In a large bowl combine the hoisin sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, and the sesame oil; stir in the chicken.
Toss to coat chicken well.  Set aside and let marinade for 10 minutes.

Spray a 10 or 12-inch nonstick skillet and heat over medium heat.  Add the chicken, saving the marinade.  Cook chicken for 5 minutes, stirring until browned.  Add the scallions, carrots, garlic, and ginger; cook 3 minutes or until veggies are tender.  Stir in the reserved marinade and the water; bring to a boil and cook 2 minutes or until thickened, stirring constantly.  Stir in the walnuts and water chestnuts.

Divide the lettuce leaves putting 3 leaves on each of 4 serving plates.  Fill each leaf with 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture.  Roll mixture in lettuce to eat.

Yield: 4 servings of 3 roll-ups.
Per serving: Approximately 293 cal, 13 g carbs, 16 g pro, 13 g fat (2 g sat fat), 3 g fiber

LINDA'S SPLENDA BANANA NUT BREAD

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 cup Splenda or Stevia Granulated
2 large eggs or 1/2 cup egg substitute
2 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 tsp (do not skimp) baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup tap water
3/4 tsp salt (1/2 will work)
1 very full cup mashed ripe bananas
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
3/4 tsp vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Spray a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

In a medium mixing bowl combine the butter, applesauce, Splenda, and eggs; blend until creamy.

In a small mixing bowl combine the two flours with the baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

In another bowl mix the bananas, water, vanilla, and nuts together.  Alternate beating the flour mixture and the banana mixture into the creamed mixture until well combined.

Place the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake at 375 for around 45 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.  Cool in pan on wire rack for 2 or 3 minutes then remove from pan and cool completely on wire rack.

EGGS BENEDICT IN A HEALTHY DIABETIC-FRIENDLY STYLE

3 tbsp light sour cream

2 tsp fat-free milk
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 eggs
1 whole-wheat English muffin, split
2 ounces reduced sodium fully cooked ham, sliced thin
2 thick tomato slices
1 tsp snipped fresh chives, if desired for garnish

Preheat broiler.

To make the sauce, combine the sour cream, milk, and mustard in a small bowl and set aside.

Lightly grease a medium skillet, fill skillet halfway with water.  Bring water to boiling; reduce heat to simmering. Bring 1 egg into a small dish.  Carefully slide egg into simmering water, holding the lip of the dish as close to the water as possible.  Repeat with the remaining egg, positioning so the eggs don't touch.

Simmer, uncovered, 3 to 5 minutes or until the egg whites are completely set and the yolks begin to thicken.  Meanwhile, place the muffin halves, cut sides up, on a baking sheet and broil 1 to 2 minutes until toasted.  Top each of the muffin halves with half the ham slices and 1 of the tomato slices.  Broil about another minute until the ham and tomato are heated through.

To serve, using a large, slotted spoon, remove eggs from the skillet and place atop the tomato slices.  Spoon the sour cream sauce over the tops of the muffins.  Sprinkle snipped fresh chives over the top, if desired.

Yield: 2 servings of approximately 200 calories, 8 g fat (3 g sat), 230 mg chol, 500 mg sodium, 17 g carbs, 2 g fiber, and 15 g protein each.
Diabetic Exchanges per serving: 1 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
Carb Choices: 1

DIJON PORK MEDALLIONS

1 (1 lb) pork tenderloin

1 1/2 tsp lemon-pepper seasoning

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

 1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp minced fresh parsley

Cut pork into eight slices, lightly pound with a meat mallet to 1-in thickness. Sprinkle with seasoning.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add pork and cook around 4 minutes per side or until a meat thermometer reads 145-degrees. Remove from pan and keep warm.

Add the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce and mustard to skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Serve with the pork and sprinkle with parsley.

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SAUTEED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH WALNUTS AND RED ONION

2 pints Brussels sprouts

2 tbsp salted butter

1/2 tsp salt (omit if using salted butter)

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp chopped walnuts

2 tbsp minced red onion

Grated rind from 1/2 of a lemon

1 tbsp lemon juice

Trim bases off Brussels sprouts. Cut sprouts in half and place, flat side down, on a cutting board. Cut into fine shreds, starting at the base.

Heat butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add Brussels sprouts, salt, black pepper, chopped walnuts, and red onion. Sauté mixture until sprouts are crisp tender. Remove from heat and stir in grated lemon rind and lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Yield: 6 servings

Recipe and photo Country Living 2000

 

MINI CHOCOLATE CRUSTED CHEESECAKES

3/4 cup sugar-free chocolate wafer crumbs

1 pkg (8-oz) fat-free cream cheese, softened
1 pkg (8-oz) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup Splenda Granulated
3 large eggs, separated
1 tsp vanilla
Fresh berries for garnish, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Lightly spray 36 mini-muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray.  Sprinkle each with 1 teaspoon of the chocolate wafer crumbs.  Turn pans upside down to discard excess; set pans aside.

In mixing bowl beat the cream cheeses at high speed with an electric mixer until creamy.  Gradually add the Splenda and beat at medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.  Add the egg yolks and the vanilla then beat at low speed just until blended.

Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.  Gently fold the egg whites into the cream cheese mixture.  Spoon evenly into the muffin cups.  Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

Topping:
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
1 tbsp Splenda Granulated
1/2 tsp vanilla

Combine topping ingredients and spoon about a half teaspoon atop each of the little cheesecakes.  Bake another 5 minutes.  Remove from oven and cool on wire racks.  When cooled, chill thoroughly before removing from the pans.  Garnish with the fresh berries, if desired.

Yield: 36 bite-size cheesecakes
Per cheesecake: 45 calories, 3 g protein, 4 g carbs, 2 g fat (1 sat), 1 g sugar

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ORANGE-LEMON BAKED SALMON

2 tbsp salt-free lemon pepper seasoning blend

4 (4-oz each) salmon fillets
4 thin lemon slices
4 thin orange slices
2 tbsp white cooking wine, optional
nonstick cooking spray

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Spray a 9-inch square baking pan with the nonstick spray.

Place the fish in the prepared pan and coat with the lemon pepper seasonings.  Place a lemon slice and an orange slice atop each fillet.  Sprinkle with the wine.

Place in the oven for 5 minutes.  Lower the heat to 325 degrees and continue to cook for 5 minutes.  Allow to rest for a few minutes (3 or 4) before serving.

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OVEN-BAKED 'FRIED' CHICKEN WITH A TWIST

1 1/2 cups low-fat buttermilk

1 tbsp cayenne pepper sauce

1 tsp garlic powder

5 lbs bone-in chicken pieces, skins removed

3 cups cornflake crumbs

1/3 cup white whole wheat flour or almond flour

1 tsp dried thyme

Line a baking sheet with foil and top with a wire rack. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce and garlic powder. Add chicken and toss to coat. Allow to stand for 1 hour.

Heat oven to 400-degrees. 

In a separate bowl, mix cornflakes, flour and thyme. Working with one piece at a time, coat with cooking spray. Bake at 400-degrees until golden and chicken is no longer pink in the center near the bone, 30-40 minutes. Tent with foil if browning too quickly. If foil is used, remove during last 5 minutes of baking time.

Yield: 6 servings Per Serving; 423 Calories, 38g Protein, 43g carbs, 451mg sodium

Woman's World 2021

MAPLE-MUSTARD GLAZED CARROTS

 1 lb small, thin carrots with tops

1 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1/4 pure maple syrup OR sugar-free maple-flavored syrup

2 tbsp fresh-squeezed orange juice

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper 

Additional butter, optional

Trim carrot tops, leaving only 1/2-inch of the green attached. Cook carrots in boiling salted water 5 to 8 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain and set aside.

Melt the 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add mustard, maple syrup and orange juice; cook, stirring constantly, until butter melts and ingredients are well combined. Add the carrots, stirring gently until well coated. Reduce heat to low and cook until carrots are tender, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with salt (I suggest omitting if you used salted butter) and pepper. Top with a pat of butter, if using. Best served immediately.

UPSIDE DOWN APPLE-WALNUT CAKE

1 small Granny Smith or Rome Beauty apple, peeled, cored, sliced thin

4 tbsp Splenda Granular (or sugar if your blood sugar levels allow)
1 cup white whole-wheat flour*, sifted
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
3 tbsp butter, softened
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs or 1/2 cup egg substitute
2 small apples (same as above), peeled, cored, finely chopped
1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, lightly toasted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray a 9-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.  Line bottom of pan with parchment paper.

Place the apple slices in a medium bowl and toss gently with 1 tablespoon of the Splenda or sugar; set aside.

In a large bowl sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

In a separate large bowl cream together the other three tablespoons of Splenda and the butter until smooth. Add the vanilla and mix well.  Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each egg; mix until smooth.  Add the chopped apples and mix in with a large silicone spatula.

Place the apple slices on the bottom of the prepared pan and sprinkle with the walnuts.  Spoon the batter over the apples and walnuts, smooth with the spatula.

Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 30 minutes or until firm in the center.  Remove from oven to a wire rack.  Using a thin knife, go around edges to loosen cake; quickly invert cake onto serving plate.

To serve, cut with a serrated knife.
Yield: 9 servings.

*All-purpose flour may be used.

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NOTE: I use Splenda because that is what my doctors recommend, and it has worked great for me for 18 years. However, you may use an equivalent of your favorite sugar substitute.

CHICKEN FAJITA CHILI

2 lbs skinless, boneless chicken breast halves cut into 1-inch pieces

1 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp fajita seasoning 

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 tsp cumin 

Nonstick cooking spray

2 cans (14.5 oz each) no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained

1 pkg (16-oz) frozen yellow, green, and red sweet peppers with onions

1 can (19 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

Guacamole for garnish, optional

Sour cream for garnish, optional

Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish, optional

In a medium bowl, combine chicken, chili powder, fajita seasoning, garlic, and cumin; toss gently to coat. Set aside.

Coat a large skillet with cooking spray, heat over medium-high heat. Cook, half the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet until browned, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a slow cooker. Cook remaining chicken and place in the cooker. Stir in the tomatoes, frozen vegetables, and beans. Cover cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high setting 2 to 2 1/2 hours.

To serve, dip chili into bowls and top with any of the optional garnishes, if using.

Yield: 6 servings Per serving: 261 calories, 2g fat (1g sat), 294mg sodium, 22g carbs, 7g fiber, 41g protein

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ORANGE-STRAWBERRY SUNRISE SMOOTHIE

Being diabetic does not mean we have to give up everything good. In fact, we diabetics can also enjoy a breakfast smoothie or a refreshing smoothie midday. This recipe is tasty, easy to make, and will fit into your diabetic diet when used as a meal substitute or a snack but not as a beverage with a meal! Orange Strawberry Sunrise Smoothie is a great way to start your day.

1 tub Crystal Light Sunrise Classic Orange Flavor sugar-free drink mix
1 cup cold water
1 cup chopped no-sugar-added frozen strawberries
1/4 cup milk
2 tbsp fat-free sour cream

Add the drink mix to the water; stir until the mix is dissolved. Remove 2 tablespoons of the prepared mix and put in a blender container. Reserve the remaining drink mix.

Add the strawberries, milk, and sour cream to the blender container. Cover blender and blend on high speed for 30 seconds or until the drink is thickened and well blended. Serve immediately.

Yield: 1 serving

NOTE: Use the remaining drink mix to make more smoothies. Or pour the mixture into a pitcher and add 6 cups cold water; stir to blend well. Serve or keep in the refrigerator.

This is a perfect drink to enjoy after a workout.

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SWEET POTATO PIE

3 medium to large sweet potatoes

1/2 cup butter
1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups Splenda or Stevia granulated
3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
3 large eggs, beaten
1 cup low-fat evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 unbaked sugar-free 9-inch pie shell
Sugar-free frozen whipped topping thawed for garnish, if desired

Cook the sweet potatoes covered in water to a boil; reduce the heat and simmer about 45 minutes until tender. 

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Drain the potatoes and when cool enough, peel, remove blemishes, and mash.  Add the butter, Splenda, cinnamon, nutmeg, eggs, milk, and vanilla.  Using a wooden spoon, beat mixture until smooth.  Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie shell.

Bake pie at 350 degrees for 60 minutes.  If crust begins to get too brown, cover edge with a foil rim.

Note: Cinnamon is a blood sugar regulator so I have more cinnamon in this recipe than you may be used to.

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SPICED CHAI MIX

3/4 cup unsweetened instant ice tea mix

3/4 cup Splenda Granular
1/2 cup non-fat dry milk powder
1/2 cup non-dairy powdered creamer
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cloves
3/4 tsp nutmeg
3/4 tsp ground cardamom

Thoroughly mix all ingredients together and place in a jar or other airtight container.

To serve, mix 3 tablespoons dry mix into 6-oz very hot water and stir to dissolve.

Yield: 13 servings
Per serving: 30 calories, 7 g carbs, 2 g protein, 1 g fat

Diabetic Exchange: 1/2 carb

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ROASTED GARLIC PORK SUPPER

This is a 2008 recipe from TOH. The recipe is from a lady in New York who said she first made it for a church retreat where it was a big hit.

2 whole garlic bulbs
2 tsp olive oil
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 (4 to 5 lb) boneless pork loin roast
6 med red potatoes, halved
3 cups baby carrots
1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups water
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

Remove papery outer skin from garlic (she does not peel or separate cloves). Cut top off garlic heads, leaving root end intact. Brush with oil and sprinkle with basil and oregano. Wrap each bulb in heavy-duty foil. Bake at 425 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until softened. Cool 10 - 15 minutes. Squeeze softened garlic into a small bowl. Add lemon juice; mix well. Rub over the roast.

Place roast in a shallow roasting pan. Arrange potatoes and carrots around the roast. Pour water into the pan. Sprinkle meat and vegetables with salt and pepper. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/2 hours. Uncover and bake 1 1/2 hours longer or until a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees, basting often. Cover and let stand 10 minutes before slicing.

Yield: 10-12 servings

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PEPPER-STEAK KABOBS

8 skewers (soak if using wooden)

1 cup ketchup
1/4 A-1 Steak Sauce
1/3 cup firmly packed Splenda brown sugar blend
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 lb boneless top sirloin, trimmed and cut in 32 chunks
1 green bell pepper, cut into 16 pieces
1 red or orange bell pepper, cut into 16 pieces

Combine the ketchup, steak sauce, Splenda, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over medium heat.  Stir occasionally and cook until the Splenda is totally dissolved.  Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

Onto each skewer alternately with a piece of steak, a piece of red pepper, a piece of steak, a piece of green pepper, and repeat so that each skewer has 4 pieces of steak, two pieces of red pepper, and 2 pieces of green pepper.  Place skewers in a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish; pour the cooled marinade over the skewers.  Cover with foil and refrigerate from 2 hours to overnight.

Preheat broiler to high and coat a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray (or grill kabobs).  Place kabobs on the baking sheet or grill, discarding an excess marinade.  Broil or grill about 15 minutes or until meat reaches the desired doneness.  Turn at least once during cooking.

 

 File Photo of a similar recipe.

WHOLE WHEAT APPLE WALNUT PANCAKES

1 cup whole wheat flour

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

3 tbsp truvia sweet complete brown 

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1 cup coarsely shredded peeled Granny Smith apples

1 cup low-fat milk

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp vanilla extract 

1 large egg

In a large bowl, combine the flours, walnuts, truvia, baking powder and salt, stir together well. Add apple and toss to combine.

In a small bowl, combine milk, oil, vanilla and egg, stir to mix well. Add to the flour mixture, stirring until combined.

Heat griddle or skillet (spray if not nonstick) until hot. Place 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. Turn when tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked. Cook until done.

Yield: 8 pancakes

Serve with a protein item.

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SPICED BEEF & PORK SAUSAGE PATTIES

2 1/2 lbs ground beef

1/2 lb ground pork (not sausage)

2 1/4 tsp salt

1 1/2 tsp ground coriander

1 to 1 1/2 tsp ground allspice

3/4 tsp ground cloves

3/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1/4 cup cider vinegar

Crumb beef and pork into a large bowl. Combine seasoning and sprinkle over meat. Add the vinegar and mix lightly but thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.

Shape meat mixture into 2 1/2-inch patties. In a large skillet, cook patties over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reads 160-degrees. 

Per patty: 123 calories, 8g fat (3g sat), 215mg sodium, 0 carbs, 12g protein

recipe basics and photo TOH

CRUSTLESS SPINACH-BACON QUICHE

1 tbsp canola oil

1 onion, sliced thin
1 pkg (10-oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
5 eggs, beaten
5 slices bacon, cooked crisp, drained, crumbled
3 cup shredded low-fat Cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Cook the onion, stirring often, until tender.  Add the spinach to the onion and continue cooking until the excess liquid has evaporated; remove from the heat and set aside.

In a large bowl combine the eggs, bacon, cheese, salt, and pepper until well blended.  Stir in the spinach mixture.  Pour into a 9-inch deep pie plate that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.  Bake at 350 degrees 30 to 40 minutes or until set.  Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting to serve.

Yield: 6 servings

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SCRAMBLED EGG BAKE

1 tbsp butter (15 mL)

1/2 cup chopped green pepper (125 mL)

1/4 cup chopped red pepper (60 mL)

3 wieners, OR any cold meats or sausage, chopped

2 oz cream cheese (60 g)

2/3 cup half-and-half cream, OR (150 mL)

  any low-carb milk-type product

1 cup grated Cheddar cheese, plus a little extra, optional  (250 mL)

1 tbsp butter (15 mL)

6 eggs, beaten 

1/2 tsp dried parsley (2 mL)

1/4 tsp salt (1 mL)

 Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). 

In large skillet, melt 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter.  Add green and red pepper and stir-fry until tender crisp.  Stir in sliced wieners or chopped cold meats.  Add cream cheese, half-and-half, or alternative and Cheddar cheese to the veggie-meat mixture.  Keep stirring until the cheeses melt and the sauce thickens. 

In another skillet, in 1 tbsp (15 mL0 butter, and over medium heat, pour eggs mixed with dried parsley and salt.  Allow eggs to begin setting around edges.  Lift and fold eggs, so that uncooked portions flow freely underneath.  Continue cooking in this manner until eggs are softly set. Fold veggie-meat-cheese sauce into eggs. Sprinkle with more cheese, if desired. Place in 1 quart (l L) casserole dish.  Bake 12 to 15 minutes.

Yield:  6 servings Per serving: 280 cal, 15g protein, 23g fat, 3.3 net carbs

Recipe and photo from Low Carbing Among Friends 

CROCK-POT SWISS STEAK WITH CARROTS

3 tbsp white whole wheat flour OR your favorite low/no carb substitute

1/3 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 tsp dry mustard
1 1/2 to 2 lbs round steak, trimmed of fat
1 tbsp canola oil
1 cup sliced onions
1 lb carrots, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 can (14.5-oz) whole tomatoes
2 tsp Splenda brown sugar blend
1 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
 

In a pie pan or shallow bowl combine the flours, salt, pepper, and dry mustard. Cut the steak into pieces to fit in the cooker and dredge in the flour mixture. 

Heat the oil in a nonstick skillet and brown meat on both sides; place meat in the crockpot or slow cooker. Add the onions and carrots to the cooker.

Combine the tomatoes with liquid, Splenda brown sugar blend, and Worcestershire sauce; pour mixture into cooker. Place lid on cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours or on high 3 to 5 hours.

Approximate per serving: 236 calories, 18 g carbs, 23 g protein

file photo for reference only

LEMON-RICOTTA HOTCAKES

The carb to protein ratio (see nutritional info below) in these hotcakes makes them diabetic-friendly. However, do not spoil that with the topping or syrup you use. Be sure to use only diabetic-friendly toppings such as fresh fruit, sugar-free syrup or a sugar-free or low sugar jam. This recipe calls for sugar. I use Splenda but left sugar in this post as the nutritional information is figured with sugar.

1 cup all-purpose flour*
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, separated
1 cup buttermilk
2/3 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel

1. Heat oven to 200°F. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg and salt in large bowl. Whisk egg yolks, buttermilk, ricotta cheese, sugar and lemon peel in medium bowl until blended.

2. Beat egg whites in medium bowl at medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Stir ricotta mixture into flour mixture just until combined. Fold in egg whites.

3. Heat griddle or large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot; oil griddle. Ladle batter by scant 1/4 cupful onto griddle, spreading to 4-inch rounds. Cook 2 minutes or until bubbles break surface of pancakes. Turn; cook 1 minute or until golden brown. Place in oven to keep warm while cooking remaining pancakes.

About 15 (4-inch) pancakes

PER PANCAKE: 75 calories, 2.5 g total fat (1 g saturated fat), 3.5 g protein, 9.5 g carbohydrate, 35 mg cholesterol, 160 mg sodium, .5 g fiber (if you have 2 pancakes, double the numbers, etc)
 *Even better for diabetics, use a whole-grain flour such as white whole-wheat. I never use all-purpose flour.

Note: File Photo (I recommend no more than 2 for diabetics.)