I love to bake. I find it really soothing, and enjoyable. As much as I love to eat (and believe you me, I love to eat), I really enjoy baking for others. I am sure this is something that all bakers enjoy - others savoring baked creations. One of my fave things to bake is banana bread. It's quick and simple, and really easy to sneak healthy ingredients into. While copious amounts of butter and sugar are super tasty, I do enjoy adapting recipes to include spelt, coconut oil and honey or agave.
While I'm baking, I catch up on podcasts. I love This American Life. What's not to love about Ira Glass and the various contributors who share stories each week? There are so many good episodes, but while I'm talking favourites, I say check out Break-Up.
Here is my banana bread recipe:
Ingredients:
3 - 4 mashed bananas1 egg 2/3 cup sugar (you can substitute 1/3 cup agave, honey or maple syrup)1/3 cup melted butter (you can substitute for 1/3 cup coconut oil)1 1/2 cups flour (spelt or whole wheat works)
1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 375. Combine dry ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Mash up bananas, and then beat in sugar, eggs and butter. Add to dry mixture. Stir until moist. Add chocolate chips. Bake for 45 minutes. Enjoy!
Serve warm for best results. I like to have mine with a cup of tea. My current fave is Lee-Middleton Gourmet's Vanilla Earl Grey.
