"Wild Cobnut (Hazelnut) Foraging: From Storm to Steamed Delight
On a stormy day, with winds that howl and trees that sway,
I felt a pull to forage and explore, to seize the day.
Though our garden held treasures, simple and near,
I craved adventure.
In the forest, amidst the tumultuous weather, I spotted these cobnuts and couldn't contain my excitement as I picked them.
Homeward bound, a heart content, a soul satisfied.
De-shelling these cobnuts is enjoyable, especially when you see the chunky nuts ;)
so what now? what shall I make.
to showcase these cobnuts, a recipe to make?
a cake perhaps? would suit its crunchy nutty taste.
but oh dear, the oven is silent... I need to bake, there's gonna be way, I am sure there is!
a STEAMED CAKE! yes, the answer to brighen the day.
Spongy and soft, a treat to create.
so here it is.....
An improvisation born from a brewing storm.
Steamed Cake with Cobnuts
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup finely ground hazelnuts
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup evaporated milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sliced hazelnuts for garnishing
2 tablespoons custard powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine 3 large eggs, ¼ cup vegetable oil, and ¾ cup dark brown sugar.
Use an electric mixer on high for 5 mins until fluffy.
Add 1½ tsp vanilla extract, ⅓ cup evaporated milk, and 1½ tbsp custard powder. Mix for 1 min.
Add 1 cup cake flour, ⅛ tsp salt, and 3½ tsp baking powder and blended or chopped cobnuts.
Gently fold into the batter.
Let batter rest for 10 mins.
Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
Stir batter gently, then pour into the prepared steamer or pan.
Steam on medium-high heat 35 mins.
Add sliced cobnuts after 30 minutes then steam for another 5 minutes to soften the nuts.
Check doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it's done.
Transfer to a rack to cool slightly before slicing
Serve the steamed cake slices with a dollop of sour cream, grated nutmeg and a drizzle of syrup.
Hope you enjoyed!
Have a Wondeful Day,
Mariah 💚🍃