Q&A with Glenys Woollard - Food

DO YOU HAVE A RECIPE FOR A LOAF FEATURING DRIED APRICOTS?

Put 3/4 cup finely diced dried apricots in a bowl with 75g chopped butter and 1/2 cup sugar. Add 1 cup boiling water, stir to melt butter then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Cool, then combine with 1 beaten egg, 1/2 teaspoon each vanilla essence and salt, 1 cup each plain flour and wholemeal flour, plus 70g sliced almonds (1 packet). Turn into a lined loaf tin and bake at 180C for about 50 minutes.

WHAT IS 00 FLOUR, AND WHERE CAN I BUY SOME?

Italians grade their flour as either 1, 0 or 00, with 00 being the most finely ground. Also known as doppio zero flour, 00 flour is made from durum wheat and makes a strong dough that holds its shape. It is traditionally used for making pasta and pizza bases, and also works well in breads like focaccia and ciabatta. You should be able to find 00 flour in specialty food stores, otherwise use a high-grade New Zealand flour.

If you have a food question email Glenys at glenyswoollard@clear.net.nz