thecookscottage

Global Spice Conference in Goa

This event is scheduled for January 2008.

Oatmeal and Cinnamon Muffins

One unkind reader once asked..."aren't you obese eating all this oily food?" I was a bit put out to be frank and had to point out to him that Alabama, his place of origin, was known for high levels of obesity among both adults and young people because of their tasty but heavy cuisine.

But,yes, putting on weight is a distinct possibility when trying out new  recipes constantly, even if the food is NOT oily.So cutting down on intake is very necessary from time to time.I try and make lunch my lightest meal. It is common knowledge that there is one meal you cannot do without; that is breakfast. Even if you intend to lose weight, never skip that first meal of the day. Just make sure you make it a healthy one.

Oats are known to reduce cholesterol, and cinnamon has hit the headlines because it helps type 2 diabetics to control sugar levels by stimulating their insulin receptors. With the use of brown sugar and oil, instead of refined sugar and butter, these muffins are positively good for you. Add a piece of fruit to your meal and, hey presto, you are ready to face the day.

Oatmeal, Date and Cinnamon Muffins

Ingredients:

Makes about 9 muffins

150 gms flour

1 heaped tsp baking powder

1/3 cup rolled oats

1 heaped tsp cinnamon

50 gms powdered brown sugar

1 egg, beaten

3 tbsp sunflower oil

3 tbsp milk

100 gms dates, chopped fine

1 tbsp brown sugar

Heat oven to 170 degrees C.

Sift flour and baking powder together twice. Add the powdered sugar , cinnamon and oats and mix. Beat the egg, measure out the oil and milk and pour all wet ingredients into a well in the centre of the flour mixture. Combine all together with swift strokes and add the chopped dates at the end. Spoon mixture into a muffin pan lined with paper cups. Sprinkle brown sugar on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes in the preheated oven till golden brown. Set out on wire rack to cool.

I bake several batches and keep them refrigerated, heating them up for a couple of seconds in the microwave before serving.

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