Monkey Bread
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: June 8, 2023
Chris and I went to Montauk for the long weekend, and when we arrived home, we found out that our Internet modem was “out of signal” and the earliest that Time Warner can send a repairman is Friday. FRIDAY. That translates to about 5,000 years by web standards.
The sad fact is, I am hopelessly reliant on the Internet. Without it within finger’s reach, a lot of my daily processes have come to a screeching halt. Like blogging. And emailing. Pinning. Uploading. Researching. Entertaining. I mean, what do we not do using the Internet these days?
No matter. Life must go on.
About my weekend, here’s my two cents: unless you’re prepared to eat at the same two restaurants for six meals in a row, don’t go to tourist spots during off season. Montauk was dead. And cold. And, we decided to take the Hampton Jitney, thinking it would be way more economical than renting a car, and ended up spending an exorbitant amount on taxi rides because apparently, everything’s not walkable like I’d previously thought.
Again, no matter. It was fun despite everything, and we got our fill of seafood (the seafood bruschetta at Harvest on Fort Pond is REALLY good—highly recommended). But once again, we were hit by the fact that, out here, the seasons are a serious force to contend with. In California, where the weather is about the same year round, there’s no reason not to take a break from reality and drive out to some middle-of-nowhere town at any time in the year. And that’s exactly what Chris and I would do, often.
I made this monkey bread in preparation for the trip. Chris perked up like a little boy when I took it out of the oven, although the smells emanating from the kitchen had already set off a Pavlovian response far earlier.
Come to think of it, who wouldn’t perk up at the sight of monkey bread? It’s part cinnamon roll, part donut hole, and baked in a Bundt pan so it looks pretty to boot. Chris ooh’d and aah’d when I tipped it out of the pan, and hovered nearby as I drizzled the glaze over the top. And when I pulled a piece off to demonstrate how fun it was to eat, he eagerly joined in. I think monkey bread brings the inner child out of all of us.
With the glaze, it’s quite decadent, but I liked it for that fact. I don’t give myself the opportunity to indulge in sugary breakfasts often, so I’ll take whatever excuses I can get.
We enjoyed it the last few mornings with coffee (luckily, we were able to find one cafe in town that was open. Don’t know how I would’ve coped without the precious liquid), plucking pieces off in their perfect bite-sized units.
And outside, the howling wind whipped our little finger of land, heaving snow dust everywhere and freezing the ocean surf.
MONKEY BREAD
Adapted from Cook’s Illustrated via Mel’s Kitchen Cafe
Fills one 10-inch Bundt pan
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp melted butter, plus softened butter for buttering pan
1 cup milk, warm (about 110 degrees)
1/3 cup water, warm (about 110 degrees)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for work surface
2 tsp salt
Brown sugar coating:
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
8 Tbsp butter (1 stick), melted
Glaze:
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
3 Tbsp milk
Directions:
Butter a Bundt pan liberally with softened butter. Set aside.
In a large measuring cup, mix together the melted butter, milk, water, sugar, and yeast. Mix the flour and salt together in a standing mixer fitted with dough hook. Turn the machine to low and slowly add the milk mixture. After the dough comes together, increase the speed to medium and mix until the dough is shiny and smooth, 6 to 7 minutes. If you think the dough is too wet (i.e. having a hard time forming a cohesive mass), add 2 Tbsp flour at a time and mix until the dough comes together (it should still be on the sticky side, just not overly wet). Coat a large bowl with nonstick cooking spray. Place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat lightly with the cooking spray. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise until doubled, 1-2 hours.
For the sugar coating, while the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a bowl. Place the melted butter in a second bowl or shallow pie plate. Set aside.
To form the bread, gently remove the dough from the bowl and press it into a rough 8-inch square. Using a bench scraper or knife, cut the dough into 64 pieces.
Roll each dough piece into a ball (it doesn’t have to be perfect, just get it into a rough ball-shape). Working one at a time, dip the balls in melted butter, allowing excess butter to drip back into the bowl or pie plate. Roll the dipped dough ball in the brown sugar mixture, then layer the balls in the Bundt pan, staggering the seams where the dough balls meet as you build layers.
Cover the Bundt pan tightly with plastic wrap and let the monkey bread rise until puffy, 1-2 hours.
Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Unwrap the pan and bake until the top is deep brown and caramel begins to bubble around edges, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool the monkey bread in the pan for 5 minutes (any longer and the bread will be too sticky and hard to remove!), then turn out on a platter or large plate and allow to cool slightly, about 10 minutes.
For the glaze, while the bread cools, whisk the confectioner’s sugar and milk together in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth. Using a spoon, drizzle the glaze over the warm monkey bread, letting it run over the top and sides of the bread. Serve warm.
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.
Are Green Olives Safe for Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux is a common digestive issue affecting millions of people globally. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and a sour taste in the mouth.
Managing acid reflux often involves careful dietary choices, as certain foods can trigger or alleviate symptoms. Among these, green olives often raise questions: Are they safe for acid reflux sufferers?
This article delves into the acidity of green olives, their nutritional profile, and their impact on acid reflux.
What Are Green Olives?
Green olives are the unripe fruit of the olive tree, commonly preserved through curing in brine or saltwater. Known for their tangy flavor and versatility, green olives are widely used in Mediterranean cuisine and consumed as snacks, in salads, or as part of dishes.
Are Green Olives Acidic?
Green olives are naturally acidic, with a pH level ranging between 3.6 and 4.6, depending on the curing and preservation method. Foods with a pH below 7.0 are considered acidic, and green olives fall into this category.
While their acidity gives them a characteristic tangy flavor, it can also make them a potential trigger for acid reflux symptoms in some individuals.
Related to Read: Are Green Olives Acidic?
Nutritional Profile of Green Olives
Green olives are packed with nutrients and are a good source of healthy fats. Here’s what they contain:
Key Nutrients in Green Olives:
- Monounsaturated Fats: Heart-healthy fats that support overall cardiovascular health.
- Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
- Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Fiber: Supports healthy digestion and gut health.
- Sodium: High levels due to curing in brine.
Health Benefits of Green Olives:
The following are the health benefits of green olives:
- Supports Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats in green olives help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Vitamin E and other compounds in olives fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Boosts Iron Intake: Contributes to maintaining healthy energy levels by supporting oxygen transport.
- Promotes Gut Health: The fiber in olives aids digestion and promotes regular bowel movements.
While green olives offer many health benefits, their high acidity and sodium content may pose challenges for individuals with acid reflux.
How Green Olives May Affect Acid Reflux?
When Green Olives Might Trigger Symptoms?
Green olives can aggravate acid reflux symptoms under the following circumstances:
- High Acidity: Their natural acidity can irritate the esophageal lining, especially in individuals with sensitive stomachs or active reflux.
- High Sodium Content: Excess sodium can lead to bloating, which puts additional pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), increasing the risk of reflux.
- Curing Process: Pickled and brined olives often contain vinegar or acidic preservatives, which can worsen acid reflux symptoms.
Potential Benefits of Green Olives for Acid Reflux Sufferers
Despite their acidity, green olives may have certain benefits:
- Healthy Fats: The monounsaturated fats in olives may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially soothing acid reflux symptoms.
- Small Portions May Be Tolerable: For some individuals, consuming green olives in moderation and pairing them with low-acid foods may not trigger symptoms.
Tips for Including Green Olives in a Reflux-Friendly Diet
If you enjoy green olives and want to include them in your diet despite acid reflux, consider these tips:
1. Moderation Is Key
- Limit your intake to small portions (2-3 olives at a time) to avoid overwhelming your stomach with acidic foods.
2. Opt for Low-Sodium Varieties
- Choose olives with reduced sodium content to minimize bloating and LES pressure.
3. Pair with Alkaline Foods
- Combine green olives with alkaline foods like leafy greens, cucumbers, or quinoa to balance out their acidity.
4. Avoid Heavily Pickled Olives
- Steer clear of olives cured with vinegar or other highly acidic ingredients, as they are more likely to trigger symptoms.
Olive Oil Recipes: Olive Oil Cake
Citrus Salad With Rosemary And Olives
Alternative Foods for Acid Reflux Sufferers
If green olives don’t work for you, there are plenty of acid-reflux-friendly alternatives, such as:
- Avocado: Rich in healthy fats and naturally low in acidity, avocados make a great substitute for olives.
- Cucumbers: Mild and alkaline, cucumbers are gentle on the stomach and unlikely to cause reflux.
- Bananas: Known for their soothing effect on the stomach, bananas are a perfect snack for reflux sufferers.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Lifestyle Tips for Managing Acid Reflux
In addition to monitoring your diet, adopting certain lifestyle habits can help control acid reflux:
- Eat Smaller Meals: Large meals can put pressure on the LES, increasing reflux episodes.
- Stay Upright After Eating: Avoid lying down for at least 2-3 hours after meals.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can increase abdominal pressure and worsen reflux.
- Identify Personal Triggers: Keep a food diary to track which foods exacerbate your symptoms.
What Do Experts Say About Green Olives and Acid Reflux?
Nutritionists and gastroenterologists often advise caution when consuming acidic foods like green olives if you have acid reflux.
However, individual tolerance plays a significant role, and some people may enjoy small portions of green olives without experiencing symptoms. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine the best dietary plan for your condition.
Conclusion
So, are green olives safe for acid reflux sufferers? The answer largely depends on individual tolerance. While their natural acidity and high sodium content may trigger symptoms in some, others may be able to enjoy them in small quantities, especially when paired with reflux-friendly foods. As with any dietary choice, moderation and careful preparation are key.
If you’re unsure how green olives or other acidic foods affect your acid reflux, consider keeping a food diary and consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Managing acid reflux is a balance of dietary awareness, portion control, and lifestyle changes.
FAQs
1. Are green olives high in acidity?
Yes, green olives are acidic, with a pH level between 3.6 and 4.6.
2. Can green olives worsen acid reflux symptoms?
For some individuals, the acidity and sodium content in green olives can trigger or worsen reflux symptoms.
3. Are black olives better for acid reflux than green olives?
Black olives are generally less acidic than green olives, making them a better option for some acid reflux sufferers.
4. Can I eat green olives if I have mild acid reflux?
If your symptoms are mild, you may tolerate small portions of green olives. Pairing them with low-acid foods may also help.
5. What other snacks are safe for acid reflux?
Alkaline-rich snacks like bananas, cucumbers, and rice cakes are great options for those with acid reflux.
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.