Petit Provence

When my little girl used to attend a class in Tampines NTUC, we would frequent the malls around the area. Usually after each session, we will swing by Tampines Mall or Century Square. I can see that there are several bakeries around but one of the bakeshops that I like around Tampines Central is Petit Provence. Although they only have a few, I love the assortment of breads they offer.

Last week, I bought 2 pieces. The coffee roll and the milk pan. I believe the milk pan is one of the best sellers and I haven't seen this kind of bread in any other bakeries I've visited. According to their website, the milk pan is "Soft on the outside, softer on the inside. The smooth, creamy and milky filling will take your breath away." And I must say, yes, the creamy filling does feel magical, almost taking you to bread heaven. :D

The milk bread up close. Sorry, it doesn't really look that way. But because it was dumped in my bag and I was scurrying after the little girl around, it became like a raisin after. Well, not really a raisin but more like a grape on its way to becoming one.

Milk Pan $1.60

Usually, a coffee bun that you can see is filled with cinnamon or raisins. But this one made my eyes lit up.  It was coffee flavored with chocolate chips. And the bread is very soft, it almost melts in your mouth. Just perfect!

Coffee Roll $1.40

I can remember one time that I bought a cream cheese bread and when I bit, I felt something hard. When I took a closer look, there was a staple wire. I didn't know what to do at first. Should I take a photo of it as a proof? Should I give it back? The husband told me to just show it to the staff just so they will be aware. So when I explained it to them, they were really sorry and gave me 2 new cream cheese breads! Oh yeah, honesty pays! :)

The prices of the bread are not cheap, I must say. But if you're in the mood for some indulgence of sweet breads, head to Petit Provence. Try their wassants, they're also yummy!

Petit Provence

Century Square
2 Tampines Central 5, #01-16
10am-10pmContact: 6467 6966
Website: www.provence.com.sg

Cottage Cheese Biscuits

Warm biscuits with jam

If you're thinking what to pair with your stew, steak, pot roast or just for snacking, try biscuits. I mean the American biscuits, not those sweet snacks you buy at the supermarket. :) It's easy to do and you can actually mix it up to be savory or sweet!


Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp white sugar
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cottage cheese
• 2 tsp sesame seeds, toasted
• 1 egg + 2 Tbsp milk for eggwash

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
3. Gradually stir in milk until dough pulls away from the side of the bowl.
4. Turn out onto a floured surface, and knead lightly. Pat or roll dough out to 1 inch thick. Cut biscuits with a large cutter or juice glass dipped in flour. You can also drop the biscuits for a more rustic feel.
5. Repeat until all dough is used. Brush off the excess flour, and place biscuits onto an ungreased baking sheet.
6. Brush with egg wash and bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until edges begin to brown.

Quick Meal Fix

If you're crunched for time to prepare a decent meal, don't fret! All you need is a piece of pita bread (or whatever bread you have available), ham, and cheese then you're good to have a quick munch. I know a lot of people are always rushing to the office and don't have time to prepare breakfast. Or too tired to whip up a hearty dinner. This is very common for those who live alone and would prefer to just buy anything from a convenience store. I know this because this is what I do when I used to work away from family. Guilty as charged. But now I have a family, I do my best to make everything homemade. :)

Ingredients:

• 1 pc pita bread, halved
• 1/4 cup chopped ham (or whatever leftover meat you have)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1/3 cup shredded melting cheese
• 1 tsp butter
• mushrooms, chopped (optional)

Directions:

1. Slice the pita bread into half and prepare your fillings. Heat a skillet over medium heat. 

2. Melt the butter and toast the bread. On one of the pita slices, place half of the cheese on top and let it melt. Do not overturn.

3. As the cheese melts, place the onions and ham. Top with the rest of the cheese. Cover with other pita slice and press. Make sure not to burn the bread, just a light toast.

4. Slice the sandwich into two. Serve warm with mustard and hot sauce.

I just had this for lunch. I paired it with a steaming bowl of chicken and corn soup. Oh, happiness!