Jasdip, I made 12 muffins from your recipe. Usually I make the jumbo size muffins and use a full recipe for only six gigantic, bakery size muffins. This time, I decided to go back to the smaller, regular muffins size. The muffins didn't crown the top of the muffin tin much, so maybe I should have made 8-10 rather than 12. No matter -- they taste really good. I had another one this morning, thawing it in the microwave. I used half butter & half applesauce. I'm not one to eliminate butter altogether. Also, I eliminated salt because of my husband's dietary restrictions. If I hadn't been making these muffins for the first time, I might have used a no-sodium baking soda product too. But I didn't want to risk ruining the muffins. I use a no-sodium baking powder for all my quick breads, and it works just fine. But I've had some trouble in the past with the sodium-free baking soda. I also used the lowest sodium of all the commercial buttermilks available at my local grocery stores. Donna, I may try your recipe next. As I've said before, I'm a sucker for bran muffins. I'm still hoping to replicate the wonderful flavor of the Van de Kamp's bran muffins of my childhood in Los Angeles. I loved them, but unfortunately, Van de Kamp's discontinued most of their bakery items years ago.

Pumpkin Bread 2/3 cup shortening 2-2/3 cup sugar 4 eggs 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin 2/3 cup water (or use cider) 3-1/2 cup flour 2 tsp. soda 1-1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp cloves 2/3 cup coarsely chopped nuts 2/3 cup raisins Heat oven to 350. Grease 2 loaf pans. Cream shortening and sugar thoroughly. Add eggs, pumpkin and water. Blend in dry ingredients, except nuts and raisins. Stir in nuts and raisins after batter has been mixed well. Bake 60-70 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. I think I set my timer for 50 minutes and then checked it, but don't remember if I had to cook longer than that or not. This is my favorite pumpkin bread recipe, and is wonderful with a cream cheese and lemon and sugar glaze on it. Rosie's Banana Bread 1/2 cup oil 2 eggs 3/4 cup mashed bananas 1 cup sugar 1-1/4 cup flour 1 tsp. soda 1/2 tsp salt Preheat oven to 350. Mix oil, eggs, and bananas with sugar. Sift dry ingredients and add. Bake 50 minutes in heavily greased and floured pan. This is a very, very moist bread, so good greasing and flouring of the pan is necessary. I also add 1 cup chopped walnuts to this. This, again, is the best banana bread recipe I have found. Cherry Zucchini Bread 2 eggs 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1/4 tsp. salt 1/3 cup lemon juice 2/3 cup shredded, unpeeled zucchini 1/4 cup water 2/3 cup dried tart cherries 2 cups all purpose flour 1 Tbs. grated lemon peel 2 tsp. baking powder Put eggs in a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on med. speed 3-4 minutes, or until eggs are thick and lemon colored. Add sugar, oil, lemon juice, and water and mix well. Combine flouyr baking powder, cinnamon, soda and salt. Add flour mixture to egg mixture and mix well. Stir in zucchin, cherries, and lemon peel. Grease and flour the bottom only of a loaf pan. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven 55-65 minutes, or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Makes 1 loaf. I could not find my zucchini, apple, or cranberry quick bread recipes, but if you really want them, just let me know and I will dig deeper. Have a happy Thanksgiving! Sherry

Happyday, I agree that you are overproofing your bread, probably. If you let it rise too high it will collapse on itself and you'll get that sunken lump. Ask me how I know. (grin) Ann T, I do bread dough overnight and it's good, I've done it up to two days in the fridge and it's good, but I keep it more than that I it seems to develop a flavor that I find similar to mild sourdough. Elery loves it, so he's always hoping that I don't have time to bake that dough, LOL. jasdip, you won't find a consistent yeast amount in bread recipes. Some have more and some have less, depending on the flavor the originator of the recipe was shooting for and liked. As has been mentioned, bread is simple and forgiving, you can use more yeast or less, you can use whole wheat or white or off brand flour, oil or butter or none, milk, water, coffee, whatever and it will usually come out just fine. I just made a loaf for Elery that took a cup of liquid, I used 3/4 cup of water and 1/4 cup of Sriracha sauce, along with a bit of dry mustard and some black pepper. White whole wheat in place of all purpose. He loved it, I'm not even tempted to try it! I had seen a similar recipe on the internet, but I didn't feel like looking it up, so I made it from what passes for my memory and it was still just fine and an absolutely beautiful color. Annie

I've got a few family recipes. Of course, my family is Greek, so the flavors might be different from what you're used to. But, on the other hand, they might be an interesting change. Briami (Baked Summer Vegetables) A variety of summer vegetables, baked in olive oil. A simple, tasty, and nutritious casserole. Use as a main dish or a delicious vegetable side dish. Vary the vegetable depending on what is available. 1 pound summer squash (zucchini, crookneck, patty pan, etc.) 1 pound eggplant 1 pound potatoes 2 onions 1 - 1 pounds tomatoes (fresh or canned) ½ - 1 cup olive oil Salt and pepper to taste 1 cup chopped parsley ½ 1 cup water, hot 2 green peppers (optional) 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional) I cup buttered breadcrumbs (optional) ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) ÂScrub squash and cut off ends; cut in ¼ inch slices or in 1 inch chunks. ÂScrub eggplant and cut off ends; cut into ¼ inch slices. (Eggplant may be salted and set aside on paper towels to absorb moisture for at least 30 minutes. Rinse well before adding to casserole.) ÂWash and peel potatoes; cut in ¼ inch slices. ÂPeel onions; cut in ¼ inch slices. ÂWash, peel and cut tomatoes into slices (roughly slice or chop canned whole tomatoes). ÂIf using peppers, wash, remove seeds and cut into strips. ÂBeginning with sliced potatoes, layer all vegetables in a large casserole. ÂSalt and pepper each layer of vegetables lightly (If eggplant slices have been pre-salted, do not salt eggplant layer.) ÂAdd olive oil and hot water. ÂCover and bake at 350° for 60 minutes. ÂIf desired, sprinkle with buttered breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. ÂUncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes. ÂLet stand uncovered 10-15 minutes before serving. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve with hearty bread slices and a fresh salad. May be served hot, warm, room temperature, or even cold. Fasolakia (Greek Stewed String Beans) A flavorsome combination of green beans stewed in a tasty tomato sauce. Simple, healthful, and delicious. A wonderful holiday alternative to the usual cream soup based green bean casseroles. 2 pounds string beans, fresh or frozen 2 onions, chopped 2  4 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup olive oil 1 - 8 ounce can tomato sauce ¼ - ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped 1-2 teaspoons mint 2 potatoes, peeled and cut in 1-2 inch chunks 2 carrots, sliced 1 cup water or broth 2 teaspoons salt Pepper to taste ÂIn Dutch oven, sauté onion lightly in olive oil. ÂAdd tomato sauce, string beans, and remaining ingredients. ÂCover and simmer over medium heat for about 60 minutes or until all vegetable are tender. ÂCheck after 30 minutes; add more water or broth if necessary. ÂStir occasionally. Serve hot or room temperature. Patatosalata (Greek Potato Salad) Fresh, lively, and bursting with flavor. This salad brightens any meal and is a delicious alternative to the typical mayonnaise-laden versions. 2  2 ½ lbs. wax potatoes (white, Yukon Gold, or red) ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Juice of 1- 2 large lemons 1 red onion, finely diced 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley 1 teaspoon dried Greek oregano (optional) Salt and Pepper to taste ÂFinely chop onion and parsley ÂIn a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano (if used), parsley, 1 teaspoon salt and onion. Mix well and set aside. ÂWash potatoes well. ÂAdd potatoes to a large pot of boiling, lightly salted water. Cook potatoes at low boil for about 15 - 20 minutes, or until potatoes are just tender. Do not overcook. ÂDrain water and let potatoes cool slightly to touch. ÂWhen slightly cooled, peel and cut potatoes into slices or large dice (If desired, leave skin on red potatoes). ÂPlace potatoes in a large bowl; add dressing and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat. ÂCover bowl and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Stir every once in a while to redistribute dressing. Macaronia me Voutyro (Pasta with Brown Butter Sauce) Simple yet delicious. Browned butter, tender pasta, and sharp, tangy cheese. A real treat for pasta lovers everywhere. 1 pound. spaghetti or other pasta ½ pound butter (1 cup/2 sticks)* ½ cup grated dry Mezithra** or Parmesan Salt and pepper to taste ÂFill a large deep pot 3/4 full with water. ÂAdd salt and bring to a rolling boil. ÂAdd pasta slowly, without breaking the boil. ÂCook until al dente, following package directions; stir frequently. ÂDrain well in a colander and return to pan in which it was cooked. ÂWhile pasta is cooking, melt butter and heat to a deep golden brown. ÂWatch it carefully; it burns quickly and suddenly. ÂPour browned butter over drained pasta in pot. ÂAdd half the grated cheese and toss well to coat. ÂAdd salt and pepper to taste. ÂSprinkle each serving with the extra grated cheese. ÂServe with additional grated cheese and freshly ground pepper. *If desired, substitute ½ cup very light olive oil for half of the butter. **If using Mezithra cheese, substitute ½ cup sweet, unsalted butter to cut down on salt content. Melintzanosalata (Roasted Eggplant Salad) Deliciously different! A perfect appetizer spread with crackers. 1 large eggplant 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or crushed ¼ cup chopped parsley ¼ cup olive oil ¼ cup wine vinegar or lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon) Salt and pepper to taste ÂPlace whole, washed eggplant in greased baking pan. ÂBake at 350° oven 60 minutes, until soft. Allow skin to turn black so as to give a smoky flavor to the salad. ÂAllow eggplant to cool off a bit so you can handle it. ÂSlice the eggplant down the middle and scoop out the pulp. ÂPut the eggplant pulp on a cutting board and chop it up finely. ÂLightly sauté chopped onion and garlic in olive oil. ÂIn a bowl, combine the chopped eggplant, onion and garlic mixture with all the olive oil, and vinegar or lemon juice. ÂSalt and pepper to taste. ÂCover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. ÂAdjust seasonings if necessary. Serve with pita bread, flat bread, or whole wheat/sesame crackers (like Ak Mak). Spanakorizo (Spinach and Rice) A peasant dish thatÂs perfect for vegetarians. Simple and tasty! ¼ cup olive oil ½ cup parsley, chopped fine 1 medium yellow onion, chopped fine 1 bunch green onions, chopped 2 - 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1-teaspoon mint 1-teaspoon dill weed 2 teaspoons oregano 1½ - 2 cups water 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce 1 teaspoon salt and pepper 2 bunches spinach, washed, dried, stems removed, chopped (or 2 packages fresh spinach [stems removed] or 2 packages frozen chopped spinach [thawed and squeezed dry]) 1 cup white rice ÂIn a large saucepan place the oil and heat it on medium high until it is hot. ÂAdd the parsley, onions, and garlic. ÂSauté the ingredients until the onions are soft and translucent. ÂAdd the rice and sauté for a few minutes, stirring constantly. ÂAdd the water, tomato sauce, salt and pepper; bring to a boil. ÂMix the ingredients together thoroughly so that everything is well combined. ÂCover and simmer the ingredients until the rice is almost tender, approximately 15 minutes. ÂAdd water as needed. ÂUncover and stir in the spinach. ÂCover the pan and continue cooking on very low heat, about 5-10 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and all the liquid has been absorbed and the spanakorizo is tender, not mushy. ÂAdjust seasonings. ÂCover and let stand for at least 10 minutes before serving. Serve Spanakorizo with grated Parmesan cheese and/or plain, unflavored yogurt. Variation: To make Prassorizo (Leek Rice), substitute 1 1/2 pounds sliced leeks (white and green portions) for the spinach and add with the liquid. Leeks need longer cooking time. Omit green onions. I know you said you eat a lot of beans already, but this is a classic Greek bean soup recipe. It just might be different enough to try: Fasolada (Greek Bean Soup) Comfort foodÂGreek style! Thick, hearty, and full of vegetables. Peasant food fit for a king! 1 pound dry beans (great northern, lima, garbanzo, black eye pea, lentil) 1 onion, chopped 2Â3 stalks celery, chopped 2-3 carrots, chopped 2 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 pound lean ground beef or lamb (optional) 1Â2 bay leaves 1 teaspoon oregano 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce ¼ cup olive oil Salt and pepper to taste 2  3 quarts water Dry Bean Preparation: Great Northern/Lima/Garbanzo: ÂRinse beans ÂSoak beans oOvernight Soak Method  In large pot soak 1 lb. beans overnight in at least 2 quarts water oQuick Soak Method  Combine 1 lb. beans & 2 quarts water in large pot. Heat beans & water to boiling. Boil 2 minutes. Remove from heat, & let stand for at least 1 hour. ÂDrain soaking water & rinse beans ÂAdd 2 quarts water ÂCover & bring to boil ÂReduce heat to simmer ÂCook for 45  60 (or longer) until beans are just tender (not mushy) Black Eye Pea/Lentil (no soaking necessary): ÂRinse beans ÂAdd 2 quarts water ÂCover & bring to boil ÂReduce heat to simmer ÂCook black eye peas for 45  60 minutes until just tender (not mushy); cook lentils for 30  40 minutes until tender. Canned Bean Preparation: ÂUse equivalent to four (4) 15 oz. cans of desired beans ÂDrain & rinse beans ÂAdd 1½ quarts water Soup Preparation: ÂLightly sauté chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic in olive oil. Cover and cook over medium heat until just tender (not mushy). Do not brown. Â(Optional: brown ground beef/lamb; drain well). ÂAdd vegetables (with oil) & meat (if used) to prepared beans (approximately 6  8 cups prepared beans). ÂAdd salt, pepper, bayleaves, and oregano (dry beans will require more salt than canned beans). ÂAdd tomato sauce. ÂAdd additional quart water, if desired. ÂCover & bring to boil ÂReduce heat to simmer ÂSimmer for 30  45 minutes. ÂTaste & adjust seasonings This soup tastes even better reheated the next day; it also freezes well.