A loving mother and an exceptional cook, Desiree Sitompoel never takes anything for granted. The founder of Mamitoko is truly enjoying staying at home and spending more time with her family. She shares with Exquisite Taste her secrets on how to keep a positive attitude in this situation, along with a delicious cookie recipe.
Q: How are you spending the days at home? Are you doing more cooking than usual?
A: Of course, I am. I love trying out new recipes with the food I have eaten while travelling. It’s a good way to make use of the free time that I have right now. Besides spending more time in the kitchen, I’m also using this time to be with the family. It’s nice to be able to have quality moments with them, seeing how busy our daily lives have been. Being at home is also a nice thing for the dogs, because we get to play more with them.
Q: Can you share with us your tips to keep a positive attitude in this situation?
A: Don’t let this situation bring you down. It is true that it takes time to adapt to not being able to go out, but look for the positive side in every situation. By staying at home, I get to enjoy precious time with my family. We get to have meals together every day, as a mom, this is one of the things that I will cherish forever. I would also suggest exploring hobbies or talents to learn new things. You never know what hidden talents you might have.
Q: What is your family’s ultimate comfort food?
A: I’m sure there are many, but off the top of my head it is tiramisu. Funnily enough, this tiramisu is also one of the best sellers at Mamitoko. It’s something that I have made for the kids since they were little and is very easy to make at home. Another thing is macaroni. Pasta is a staple in our house because it’s filling and tasty.
RECIPE
Cherry Cola Cookies
Ingredients:
225g salted butter
225g dark brown sugar
100g powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
75 ml Coca Cola (or 5 ml cola extract)
2 tsp cherry syrup
375g low-calorie flour
1g baking soda
1 tsp salt
145g dried cherries
30 preserved cherries
Method:
Pre-heat the oven to 170C.
Mix the butter, brown sugar, powdered sugar, egg, vanilla extract, Coca Cola and cherry syrup using a mixer until creamy.
In a separate bowl, mix the low-calorie flour, baking soda and salt.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients. Cut the dried cherries into little pieces and mix well.
Put parchment sheet on the baking tray, or grease the tray lightly with oil.
Shape dough into small rounds and place carefully on the baking tray about 4 to 5 cm apart to allow for spread in the oven. Garnish with preserved cherries.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
