Daring Bakers-Yeasted Meringue Coffee Cake-Challenge #3

The March 2011 Daring Baker’s Challenge was hosted by Ria of Ria’s Collection and Jamie of Life’s a Feast. Ria and Jamie challenged The Daring Bakers to bake a yeasted Meringue Coffee Cake.

I almost forgot about this challenge, luckily I had some free time so decided to make the coffee cake. At first I was only going to half the recipe and make one cake, but then decided I would make 2, and I could keep one at home and send the 2nd one with my other half to a rehearsal he had to go to.

The recipe was quick and easy.  Next time I need to roll the dough a little tighter so the filling is throughout the bread a bit better.  I also may play around with the filling, thinking caramel, apple or both!!!

Here's a picture of one of the coffee cakes.  Let's say I definitely ate my fair share of the own that was left at home.  Ok more like my share plus half of my other half.

Daring Cooks-Ceviche and Papa Rellenas-Challenge #2

Kathlyn of Bake Like a Ninja was our Daring Cooks’ March 2011 hostess. Kathlyn challenged us to make two classic Peruvian dishes: Ceviche de Pescado from “Peruvian Cooking – Basic Recipes” by Annik Franco Barreau. And Papas Rellenas adapted from a home recipe by Kathlyn’s Spanish teacher, Mayra.

This was my second Daring Cooks challenge.  Life suddenly got a little busy and hectic and I almost ran out of time for completing this challenge.  At first, I was only going to do the Papas Rellenas part since my other half does not not seafood, but then I decided I would just make a smaller batch of the ceviche.

The ceviche was ok for me, not outstanding. I do admit I did not use fresh fish, but had to resort to previously frozen.  For me, the ceviche was just ok, nothing that I find myself clamoring for more.

On the other hand, I loved the Papas Rellenas.  I did have a problem with them falling apart after the frying.  I think next time I may add a little cornstarch to the potatoes to see if that thickens them up a bit.  The filling was great tasting.  We had leftover filling and it made a great lunch the next day.  I can definitely see myself making them again.   Below is a picture of both the ceviche and papas rellenas.