CookSmart (3rd Issue) Page26

Celebrity Pick

The Magic Herbs

Cinnamon, lemongrass and vanilla are frequently used in desserts. Tony said, herbs bring out a fine taste and their effects are unimaginable. Herbs and apples are a good match because cinnamon raises the sweetness of apples. To attune to the popular taste, vanilla is a good choice. The taste of vanilla is relatively mellow, which will not subdue the taste of other ingredients.

How does a dessert meet the “less sugar” requirement?

“Use more fruits”, Tony suggested. Fruits like pumpkins and apples are rich in fructose, which brings out the sweet flavour. He said that, ripe fruits in general are sweet enough and no extra sugar is needed. As more and more people adopt a healthy eating habit, chefs often replace regular ingredients by low-fat and healthier options like vegetable oil and low-fat cream, and use less sugar.

Conventional Dessert can be Healthy

Butter and sugar are often added in traditional western desserts such as bread puddings. Yet bread pudding can meet the “3 Less” requirements if we do a little twist: use less sugar and vegetable oil. Vanilla cream dressing can be served on the side to suit the diners’ taste.