Sunday, September 4, 2011

Sopapillas ~ Easy Labor Day Weekend Dessert


What is Labor Day about?
“Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.”

LABOR DAY weekend…means…last time for summer get-togethers with friends and family over a cuisine of the traditional fare…barbecue…cocktails…cold beers…and, of course, dessert!





Watermelon Mojito
recipe can be found on my blog post here.



Last few days to enjoy time at the beach or poolside.


My sister Edwina and her husband Fred introduced me to this fun and easy dessert called Sopapillas. I posted this recipe some time ago, (2/12/10), which is worth reposting. It’s so easy to put together and you will be crowned ‘genius’ for making it. It’s that good.

Sopapillas
Easy Labor Day Weekend dessert
By Edwina & Fred
Adapted by Carmen Ortiz of Baking is my Zen


INGREDIENTS:
These ingredients are not measured out. You just add as needed.

Canola Oil
Flour tortilla(s)
Vanilla Ice Cream – * Or use your favorite flavor - I used Vanilla Chocolate Chip
Strawberries – about 4 or 5 (or use as much as you like)
(additional soft fruits can be added: add whole: blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
Honey
Cinnamon

OPTIONAL: (I use Smuckers Sundae Syrup)
Caramel sauce
Chocolate sauce

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
Skillet
Cutting board
Knife
Bowl & spoon (for fruit)
Cookie cutter ( heart shaped) - optional
Tongs or fork
Paper towels & plate
Ice cream scooper
Knife
Plate, fork & knife (to enjoy the dessert)


DIRECTIONS:
1. Dice strawberries on cutting board. Add to a bowl. Set aside.
2. Use cookie cutter to cut Tortilla into shapes. (I made heart shapes).
Or, use tortilla as is.
3. Place a paper towel on a plate. Set aside.
4. To fry tortilla: Add oil to skillet. Allow oil to get hot.
5. Submerge the tortilla in the hot oil.
6. Fry until lightly browned. *DO NOT LET THIS GET DARK BROWN.
7. Flip. Fry for just a few seconds more.
8. Remove tortilla from hot oil with tongs. Put on paper towel lined plate.
9. Turn off the flame on stove.
10. Blot the tortilla with another paper towel. (This helps absorb excess oil).
11. Pour a circle of chocolate and caramel sauce on a plate. (optional)
12. Place tortilla on the (sauced plate-optional).
13. Add a scoop of ice cream in the center of the tortilla.
14. Add fruit on top and around the ice cream.
15. Lightly drizzle with honey.
16. Lightly sprinkle with cinnamon.
17. Get your fork & knife ready to enjoy!



NO TIME to make this dessert…stop by RITA’s for a great custard treat.
My favorite is Lemon Gelati. It’s a layering of Italian Ice and creamy Frozen Custard.
SO GOOD!

Rita’s Mission:
Ice, Custard and Happiness = RITA's

Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend…Stay Safe Everyone!
Matt and Jenni (this is my beautiful niece with her boyfriend)

Peace,

Carmen
Baking is my Zensweet nibbles for the soul