Forum Thermomix

Welcoming Center, Management and General Chat => Chit Chat => Topic started by: Allen USA on August 24, 2016, 02:24:39 am

Title: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 24, 2016, 02:24:39 am
Hi All,

   My TM5 came last night, I unpack it and put everything in the dishwasher expect the bowl and knife I wash them by hand.

Day one, started out with grinding my coffee beans for french press coffee, that went well, then I tried one of the auto receipts boil white rice, it wasn't bad, but I thought it was a little under cook plus some of the rice stuck to the bottom of the pot, I was surprise that the knife does not spin the complete cooking time.

After dinner I tried the magic bean chocolate cake, the cake went over very well, I had one of my grand daughters plus couple neighbors and my DW as guinea pigs, I was really surprise how good it was, I am not a bean person. Plus my DD (in law) said I should have not told her. I guess adding sugar butter and eggs can make anything good.

PS: I had a opps with the cake I tried to remove it from the pan while it was still hot. Big no no. :-))

Well that’s all for tonight  more TM5 in the US south to come.

Allen
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Jamberie on August 24, 2016, 03:14:51 am
Sounds like you had a great first day! Well done!

Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on August 24, 2016, 03:18:51 am
Great to see you get stuck straight into it Allen, enjoy your new kitchen helper.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 24, 2016, 09:41:33 am
Thank you ladies for looking.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on August 24, 2016, 12:24:33 pm
How exciting Allen. Have fun.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on August 24, 2016, 09:10:30 pm
A great first days cooking Allen. :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 25, 2016, 05:00:13 am
8/24/2016

Today, I tried the Meatballs and tomato sauce in the basic cookbook, for disclosure I have never steam hamburger meat or any red meat as that goes.

By the time I added the soaked bread in milk (squeeze the milk out first) I had a consistency that remind me of step 2 baby food, the next time you are boarded get yourself a jar of step 2 meat baby food and tried to make some 25/50 mm balls. Then it had me grease the Varoma’s bottom and top dish, boy hamburger does not have enough grease (fat) I am thinking. As my new made dish is cooking I am thinking about all that grease dripping in the my tomato sauce, then the chime goes off after 20 min. What I find is a done meatballs, but with a mild taste and lacking in texture and color. The tomato sauce had good flavor and color even with all that extra fat dripping in it. So my culinary skills jump in (or should I say lack of) and I quickly grab my dutch oven, open a jar of spaghetti sauce add the meatballs and the tomato sauce and let them all simmer for couple of hours = good texture and color balls 8). Then came the spaghetti, that went as plan for the most part I was cooking with a thin but thicker gauge than I like, so my cook time need to be about 2 mins longer that I set the time for. My preference is angel hair a very thin gauge of spaghetti

Moment of truth my DW who's not a big spaghetti fan said she like it and it was good because she had not had it for awhile, when I ask her about the meatballs she reply they are really good, I like them a lot (she doesn't like to cook so ALL of my dishes are good) but on a real note it turn out better than I first thought it was going to be, I also like it. Will I steam red meat again? Maybe.

Allen
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on August 25, 2016, 07:21:59 am
It's a real learning curve isn't it Allen. You will find Thermomix saucy recipes usually taste better the next day.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 26, 2016, 01:12:20 am
It's a real learning curve isn't it Allen.

Yes, judydawn I have a lot to learn, I still have not gotten the self clean wash, working yet :-[
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 26, 2016, 01:15:07 am
8/25/16

Simple task

Start out with graining my morning coffee beans (not really grinding more like chopping) for dinner I use my TM5 to make cold pasta salad, this is a box mix that starts with boiling water (64 oz), I set it to 10 mins, 212f degrees, speed 1, It took 8:30 mins to reach that temperature then I boil the pasta for 10 mins in reverse. What I learn today was I am able to adjusted time, temp and speed on the fly you can even switch directions. This will be very handy also at 212f (100c) the water just starts to come to a boil, if I want a rapid boil it needs to set to 220F. Am I saving energy? not sure about that, here in the USA most kitchen appliances run on 110V including my TM5, the stove is 220V or natural gas, 220V is more efficient, but the TM5 looks  8) with its red side lights as it heats up and it nice touch screen giving temperature set point and current temperature, timer count down and speed.

This weekend I have some shopping to do, I am looking forward in making, Chocolate mousse, Lobster bisque, New England clam chowder, Strawberry jam, and some Special fried rice.

Allen
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on August 26, 2016, 06:37:47 am
Allen you are certainly trying out your thermomix. A lot of us put boiling water from the kettle into the thermomix for things like pasta.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 26, 2016, 07:47:03 pm
Allen you are certainly trying out your thermomix. A lot of us put boiling water from the kettle into the thermomix for things like pasta.

Hi cookie,
Hum, I was thinking of retiring my kettle, today I made my morning coffee using my TM5 I was able to bring the water to 205f degrees the precise temp need for French Press coffee. I had been thing about buying a electric tea pot for that goal, but now I can save a $100 by using my TM5. So much to learn and thank you for the hint.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 26, 2016, 11:21:43 pm
8/26/16

Cream of Wheat  (Whole Wheat)

My DW came home and said she would like some cream of wheat, I who obey  ;) (I am still working my DW on the cost of my new toy) so off to the web I go looking for a Thermomax recipe for cream of wheat, I was unable to find one, so here we go making up as I go.

½ cup (4oz) whole red wheat (1 part wheat 5 parts water)
15 sec, speed 10, looking for a coarse chop
Transfer to a bowl
2 and ½ cups (20 oz) of filter water
½ tsp of salt (kosher)
Install butterfly
6 mins, 212f,  ^^  (220f might work better here)
Remove MC, add wheat through top hole (leave MC off)
22 mins, 200f - 205f,  ^^  (I played around here looking for a slow boil)
Cook until you have the consistency that you are looking for.

Top off with Butter, Honey, Sugar, Milk or with some fresh fruit. For me I like honey and butter and my DW likes sugar and milk. It went well there was no burning at the bottom for the bowl and no sticking on the sides, easy clean up. Enjoy
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 26, 2016, 11:24:52 pm
I forgot to add some pictures
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on August 27, 2016, 01:24:10 am
I've never heard of red wheat Allen so I'm not surprised you couldn't find a recipe for it on line.  Well done you and I hope you racked up a few more brownie points from your wife for your effort.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 27, 2016, 04:08:55 am
I've never heard of red wheat Allen so I'm not surprised you couldn't find a recipe for it on line.  Well done you and I hope you racked up a few more brownie points from your wife for your effort.

Judy

Winter wheat is "hard red wheat" Summer wheat is "hard white wheat" both are bread wheat's grown in the northern state. Soft white wheat is use for cakes and biscuits and so on, it is grown in the southern states. Red wheat has a hardy taste to it and is better for cream of wheat. IMHO.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on August 27, 2016, 04:12:20 am
I've never heard of red wheat either, despite growing up on a wheat growing farm. It sound interesting.
Well done on making the dish Allen. It took me quite a while to
be able to do that.
I have a dear friend who makes what he calls 'gristed wheat.' It is basically what you have made. He doesn't own a thermomix so uses a machine to grist or grind the wheat.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on August 27, 2016, 08:05:53 pm
I've never heard of Cream of Wheat either so thanks for information Allen. You are certainly giving your TM5 a workout. :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 28, 2016, 02:37:09 am
Cookie, I guess hard red wheat is a northern america crop, it is sold all over the states where wheat grain is sold. Cream of Wheat is actually a brand name here in the states but they use hard white wheat. I also have a mill for wheat but wanted to tried out my TM5. Using the TM5 for this task is really nice, when you make it on the stove top you have to keep  ^^ or it will stick to the bottom pan and burn.

CC thanks fro the comment.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 28, 2016, 02:39:35 am
Dinner is server

Soup of the day: Lobster Bisque
8oz Grilled Sirloin steak season to perfection
Sides baked potato with topping (your choice)
Sweet yellow cut corn with sweet Valdosta onion
Dessert: Chocolate  mousse

I have been busy, started last night making the chocolate mousse, I use a recipe off youtube the big problem was the lady spoke French and the recipe was also in French and I don't read or speak French, I know so why did I use that recipe because it look soooo good and my goal is to tried recipe from far-away places. Well to start my whites did not look like hers when I was done, this might be because my eggs were cold and had been sitting in the refrigerator for couple of weeks. I tried to separate my egg whites by the way Supermum_of_3 said to do, letting the egg whites run under the MC but that did not work for me my egg whites were to thick again maybe do to being cold or age? The mousse turn out rich and smooth but not light like mousse should be. My next attempt will be the one in the basic cook book.

Today I made the lobster bisque, I use the recipe on Bellini website I could not find one for the Thermomix. It came out OK, it was missing favor it was bland. Next time I will turn up the heat a little plus add one more tail, than simmer the shells after removing the meat after steaming. When the bisque was done I puree it then strain the bisque before adding the meat, I think this was a mistake, I should have cooked it longer at a little higher temperature and puree it longer. My thought is that the Bellini might get up to set point quicker but I have nothing to base this on.

My DW brought me a recipe for a watermelon drink she wanted to tried while I was cutting up some watermelon, so I quickly sever her (I who obeys)

So how did my dinner turn out, I would give it a 3 out of 5 it was all eaten but I have some work to do.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 28, 2016, 02:49:02 am
Forgot the pictures again :o
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on August 28, 2016, 07:19:57 am
You are to be commended Allen. Well done.
I adore the idea of Lobster Bisque, but they are outrageously expensive over here. I think we export most of ours.
The mousse looks nice.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on August 28, 2016, 07:58:01 am
Allen, I wonder if you could use Isi's shrimp cream soup recipe and substitute lobster for shrimp (or as we call them in Australia, prawns). http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=2673.0 This recipe has good reviews, read them under the recipe.

I love your enthusiasm to get things right, it takes time but you will get there.  At least everything you are cooking is getting eaten, a lot of mine ended up in the bin in the early days!
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 28, 2016, 02:58:59 pm
Cookie, tail are also expensive here too. I found them on sale for $4.00 ea for the small tails, so I bought some to tried out.

Judy, Thank you for the link I will give the shrimp soup a tried, first as the recipe reads I want to taste what others are cooking and go from there.

I hope you ladies are enjoying my little log here and thanks for the comments.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on August 28, 2016, 08:59:19 pm
Its great seeing photos of your cooking Allen.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on August 29, 2016, 04:11:24 am
I'm enjoying it immensely Allen.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 30, 2016, 02:12:21 am
Thank you fro the feedback ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 30, 2016, 02:14:18 am
All Thermomix tonight,
I made the Salmon with Mushroom cream sauce and potatoes, I used the basic cookbook recipe and sub the salmon with tilapia (tilapia is what I had on hand), I also lightly oiled and seasoned the potatoes before cooking. DW said the potatoes and fish still needed more seasoning (I took note) salmon would had been better for this disk because tilapia does not start out with a lot of flavor. I haven't steam fish before so this is a learning stage for me. We both thought that the mushroom with the cream sauce came out well. I was very happy with the meal and even happier with the sauce, one of my main reasons for buying the TM5 is to make sauces and soups.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on August 30, 2016, 07:09:21 am
I was very happy with the meal and even happier with the sauce, one of my main reasons for buying the TM5 is to make sauces and soups.

In that case anything else you make in the TMX is a bonus Allen. The machine does make great sauces and soups. It also makes many other things as you will see from the list of category choices on our home page.  Your meal looks very nice.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on August 30, 2016, 09:29:43 am
Your meal looks appetising Allen. I rarely made sauces before the thermomix. Now they are so easy.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 30, 2016, 12:13:21 pm
Thanks Ladies and yes I have a lot to learn and try.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 30, 2016, 12:18:44 pm
I have been using my TM5 for a week now, overall it has been a positive experience. What I like best sofar is the flexibility that comes with the Thermomix. It really can do so many things with limitations only by the end user. So-far it has replace my coffee grinder, teapot and blender, I have also remove my electric coffee maker from the kitchen counter top because of space.

It will not replace my food processor, stand mixer, or wheat grinder, these stand alones just work to well and are not limited in size as the Thermomix is.

What I don't like so far, The way it chop my ground beef and all the grease left in the beef when done cooking. All I can say is make sure you use a good quality of beef with the lowest fat content as possible.

Your morning cup of joe, you should give it a try, it makes a great cup.

25 oz French press coffee pot
44g of fresh coffee beans. (I like to use a dark roast, Italian or French).
705g of filter water
Grain (chop) coffee, 6sec. Sp8
Remove coffee for TMX put into coffee pot
Add 705g of filter water
Time 8mins, Temp 212f deg. Speed  ^^ (ideal temperature for French press coffee 205f)
Allow water to reach set point and hold for 30 seconds (stop)
Pour half for the water into the pot, set a timer for 30 sec.then stir.
Add remaining water, set a timer for 5 mins.
Press and enjoy a great cup.

PS: This gives me some morning time with my TM5 and puts a little smile on my face.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on August 30, 2016, 08:43:03 pm
You are making great progress with the TM5 Allen. Thanks for the recipe for making "morning cup of Jo" :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 30, 2016, 11:46:54 pm
Thanks CC
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 30, 2016, 11:50:19 pm
Baguette

I enjoy bread one of my weakness, baguette is a simple bread, but when made right it’s so good, it should have a hard outside crust and a soft light center. Using a good flour and giving it time develop in the raise you are rewarded with mild simple favor . So what can the Thermomix do?

Today I tried to making some bread with my TM5, I use the basic cookbook baguette recipe, now I have a little experience with bread making I have been making homemade whole wheat bread for the last couple of years on and off. With the first step warming the water sure sound good to me, but in the second step knead for only 2 minutes (?) that's what it reads so 2 minutes is what I did. After the short knead time I found a nice looking dough, boy I sure miss my longer knead times with my mixers I love watching the dough go around (simple minds are entertain easy). After the last raise you put the bread in a 480F oven I didn't even think my oven goes up that high (and I am still not sure if it does) After my bread had cool down it was time to give it tried, nice hard crust and a soft light inside I spread some homemade butter on it  and before I know it ¾ of the first loaf was gone. I did say bread was one of my weakness.

My DW, are neighbor and I enjoyed eating the bread. I would rate this bread a 3.1 out of 5 it needs a little more time developing and my presentation was not picture quality,
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on August 31, 2016, 12:10:59 am
I was wondering when you were going to get around to bread making Allen, we have some great breadmakers on this forum whose recipes are worth trying.  There's nothing nicer than the smell of bread baking and it's impossible to stop  at one slice.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on August 31, 2016, 05:54:15 am
Well done Allen. Bread making is my favourite pastime. I'm afraid I tend to eat it too.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 31, 2016, 11:37:07 am
I was wondering when you were going to get around to bread making Allen, we have some great breadmakers on this forum whose recipes are worth trying.  There's nothing nicer than the smell of bread baking and it's impossible to stop  at one slice.
I will be trying other breadmakers recipes for sure, so much to try so little time to do it. Today I am hoping to try the banana bread recipe, I have the banana seating here and they need to be use.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on August 31, 2016, 11:43:46 am
Well done Allen. Bread making is my favourite pastime. I'm afraid I tend to eat it too.
Thanks, cookie I share your pastime, and by your user name I beat you make one great cookie too ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on August 31, 2016, 08:09:54 pm
Great photos of your first breadmaking experience Allen.

My DH loves bread too.And potatoes  ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cuilidh on August 31, 2016, 09:06:07 pm
I have just caught up on this thread, Allen, and am totally amazed and impressed at the recipes you have been making.  I've had my TMX for about 5 or 6 years now and haven't been nearly as adventurous as you.  When I first started using it I couldn't stop making risottos so I then decided that I had to keep trying loads of new recipes and it has been great fun ever since.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 01, 2016, 01:34:49 am
Thanks, CC I have made bread before, just not use too to a oven so hot. I guess the cooks in the UK are just HOTTER cooks. :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 01, 2016, 01:45:23 am
Hi Cuilidh

Thanks for reading, it's been fun trying out my my TMX. I have been trying to stay with the book recipes as close as possible so I can get a taste of what others are cooking. Then I am planing on making changes as I need to keep my DW happy. Risottos is on my list to try.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 01, 2016, 02:18:35 am
Banana Bread TMX

What can I say about Banana Bread, so yummy and so easy to make, Rhonda (DW) and I both enjoyed it today. Now I need one of my kids to stop by and take it home with them.

I also had some uncooked Tilapia fillets left over from the other night and some leftover steamed potatoes and mushroom cream sauces, got the frying pan out (cast iron only way to go) and fried the fish then reheated the potatoes in the same pan with some seasoning. Top it all with the mushroom sauces, We both had a big smile on are faces, I hit a home-run with the leftovers.  8)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: thermilover on September 01, 2016, 02:25:58 am
I agree Allen, Banana bread off the chip is really nice and sooo easy to make....
I think the only change I would make is reduce/replace the sugar..

Loving reading your journey, I have had TM5 for almost 2 years but surely have not cooked anywhere close to what you are doing :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 01, 2016, 03:53:33 am
Well done Allen. Bread making is my favourite pastime. I'm afraid I tend to eat it too.
Thanks, cookie I share your pastime, and by your user name I beat you make one great cookie too ;D

Thanks Allen. My Dad nicknamed me Cookie about 65 years ago and he was the only person permitted to call me that. I loved cooking then too, and as you say love cooking cookies, and cakes too.

You are certainly doing well with your thermomix, I really love seeing what you have been making.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: gertbysea on September 01, 2016, 06:05:10 am
Love the bread Allen. Had to laugh about you eating Tilapia. It is considered a pest in Far North Queensland  waters and is often the target of the government workers plus local volunteers to clean them out of our waterways. There is sometimes a bounty on them and of course they are destroyed. Meanwhile we import them into our supermarkets from countries that harvest them from polluted waterways and pay a good price for them crumbed and frozen plus they are used in fish cakes, fish bites,fish fingers and such like. Go figure. You cannot buy tilapia in the fish shop and most Australians would not knowlinging eat it but happily do so unawares it is used in just about all imported fish products.

Gert
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 01, 2016, 09:10:15 am
Something else to watch for. I always check for Basa as I believe that comes from polluted waterways.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 02, 2016, 12:57:03 am
Thermilover, Thanks for reading and comments, you are right about reducing the sugar, sounds like my sister. But I love to eat and I cook with sugar, whole eggs and real butter. ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 02, 2016, 01:25:21 am
Love the bread Allen. Had to laugh about you eating Tilapia. It is considered a pest in Far North Queensland  waters and is often the target of the government workers plus local volunteers to clean them out of our waterways. There is sometimes a bounty on them and of course they are destroyed.

Hi Gert

   It really is true one person's trash is another person's treasure. If you go south in the states I am talking about Florida Tilapia is sold all over and on many restaurants menus. It is mainly sold fillets either deep fried or grilled, serve on a fresh bun. It is pretty darn good (this is a good thing). If you ever have the chance to try it you should, if prepared right you will enjoy it.

Allen
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 02, 2016, 01:31:33 am
New England clam chowder (my way)

I have been looking to make some New England clam chowder so I read the basic cookbook recipe and have been looking recipes up on the web. I did not have all the ingredients for the TMX cookbook so I pick one off the web but it was a stove top recipe, so it was time for me to mix the cookbook and the web to make it My Way, it started with a basic soup base onion, carrots and celery then I add potatoes, next came some GP flour, butter, half and half, red wine vinegar and finish it with salt, pepper and clams. I had some hiccups and need to work on the ingredients measurements, cook times and temperature, but when it was done I had a bowl for lunch. My DW had some with her dinner, her first comment was it’s not bad, but after dinner and she was done she told me that she like the chowder. With a little more work I should have a working recipe to share.

For dinner I pull a bag of leftover spaghetti sauce out of the freezer from last week, after cooking the spaghetti in the TMX I dump the hot water into a bowl and drop the bag of sauce in the bowl using the hot water to reheat my sauce, there you go another complete meal cook by my TM5.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 02, 2016, 01:48:06 am
I love New England Clam Chowder. Epicurious on the web has an excellent NE Clam Chowder recipe that I have made many times to rave reviews. The only liquid it has is clam juice. It's an expensive recipe to make but very delicious. I have not tried converting to TMX. You would have to halve the recipe for TMX because it makes a large pot.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: gertbysea on September 02, 2016, 04:33:04 am
Love New England Clam Chowder. When you perfect your recipe Allen be sure to post it. Clams are not so popular in Australia but are available in cans, some in shell cooked from Blueskin Bay on the Otago coastline of New Zealand. These are available in the refrigerated section of Coles for us Aussies. Some fishmongers get fresh Australian raw clams. A 800 gm can Viander brand  of Vongole Al Naturale from Spain costs about $10 and has plenty of juice for the Epicurious recipe albeit a lot of salt. A 280 gm can of Condor baby clams has 50% water in it and comes from China.

In the past before clams became available in Australia I use to substitute oysters but of course they have a much stronger flavour.

I am originally from Syracuse NY and have lived in Miami as well Allen. Hard to believe I have been here 51years.

Hopefully there will soon be some more Thermomix USA recipes for you. We do not have half and half here so for those who don't know it is a blend of equal parts whole milk and light cream, and it has a 10 to 12% fat content. ... There are four ways to achieve approximately the same fat content as half-and-half by blending milk, butter, light cream, or heavy cream together in various combinations.

Also GP or general purpose flour here is called plain flour.

If you have not visited superkitchenmachine.com then please do Allen. Helene has a lot of very good recipes for Americans but with great affinity to us Aussies.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 02, 2016, 11:17:38 am
I love New England Clam Chowder. Epicurious on the web has an excellent NE Clam Chowder recipe

Thank you, Great looking recipe :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 02, 2016, 11:36:32 am
Hi Gert,

Thanks for sharing superkitchenmachine.com first time I have been there. The following that the TMX has, might be the best part of owning one, with web sites like this one and some many others, the world becomes a little smaller. We all get to share great food recipes and by cooking them we all become a little closer together.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on September 02, 2016, 12:13:50 pm
Too true Allen. When I bought mine back in 2008 there were very few English speaking websites, now there are so many you can't keep up with them.   
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 02, 2016, 12:42:48 pm
Allen you have been very busy again. Well done.

Gert we are so lucky that you came here from the U S. Their loss and our gain. Do you think you are ever likely to go back for a visit?
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on September 02, 2016, 04:58:59 pm
I've never eaten Clam Chowder so look forward to seeing your recipe Allen ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cyberider on September 02, 2016, 10:01:49 pm
Great thread, Allen, a very interesting read.  Will be looking forward to reading more of your posts.

Dave (also in the USA)

New England clam chowder (my way)

I have been looking to make some New England clam chowder so I read the basic cookbook recipe and have been looking recipes up on the web. I did not have all the ingredients for the TMX cookbook so I pick one off the web but it was a stove top recipe, so it was time for me to mix the cookbook and the web to make it My Way, it started with a basic soup base onion, carrots and celery then I add potatoes, next came some GP flour, butter, half and half, red wine vinegar and finish it with salt, pepper and clams. I had some hiccups and need to work on the ingredients measurements, cook times and temperature, but when it was done I had a bowl for lunch. My DW had some with her dinner, her first comment was it’s not bad, but after dinner and she was done she told me that she like the chowder. With a little more work I should have a working recipe to share.

For dinner I pull a bag of leftover spaghetti sauce out of the freezer from last week, after cooking the spaghetti in the TMX I dump the hot water into a bowl and drop the bag of sauce in the bowl using the hot water to reheat my sauce, there you go another complete meal cook by my TM5.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: gertbysea on September 02, 2016, 10:36:56 pm
Allen you have been very busy again. Well done.

Gert we are so lucky that you came here from the U S. Their loss and our gain. Do you think you are ever likely to go back for a visit?

Never say never but I have not been back for some years now. I think my last trip back was a trip through the Napa Valley. And..........clam chowder in San Francisco!

Gert
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 03, 2016, 02:24:16 am
Hi Dave, from one newbie to another welcome to the forum, it's a great place with lots of GREAT people and information.

CC, as soon as I can it's just not ready for prime time yet.

Allen

 
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 03, 2016, 02:34:55 am
Cookies

Today I baked the Chocolate chip cookies from the basic cookbook, I follow the recipe except I use whole soft white wheat, 60 seconds, speed 10, (GP flour is made from soft white) I also add a tsp of dough conditioner. I was happily surprised how well the TM5 chop the wheat to a fine flour. Using the TM5 made making the cookies a breeze. I them drove to Shallen’s one of my DDs, house there I had some of my grand-kids waiting to enjoyed grandpa’s surprise. As Conner the 5 year old said they are yummy.

Sykler my 13 year old granddaughter is spending the weekend here and she will be making another batch of cookies tomorrow on her own (grandpa) will only be looking in the background. I also have cupcakes to make for a birthday party Alexandra one of my 11 year old grand-kids I have 3 grand-kids that were born the same year. Kaleb, Alexandra, and Nicholas. :)

Edit: I add the chop time for the flour

Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 03, 2016, 02:38:55 am
Is the dough conditioner the same as bread improver? I haven't had any success trying to find the latter for some bread recipes. Where did you buy the dough conditioner Allen USA?

Thanks
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: gertbysea on September 03, 2016, 05:53:33 am
Is the dough conditioner the same as bread improver? I haven't had any success trying to find the latter for some bread recipes. Where did you buy the dough conditioner Allen USA?

Thanks

Bread improver is the same as dough conditioner and is found in Coles and Woolies next to the yeast.

Gert
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on September 03, 2016, 09:34:32 am
Great looking cookies Allen.I always use this recipe Choc Chip Cookies (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=5405.0) which my family love and munch happily through.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 03, 2016, 10:53:11 am
Is the dough conditioner the same as bread improver? I haven't had any success trying to find the latter for some bread recipes. Where did you buy the dough conditioner Allen USA?

Thanks

Bread improver is the same as dough conditioner and is found in Coles and Woolies next to the yeast.

Gert

Mep

Yes, the same I order it off, Amazon with free shipping.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0097FMQVK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0097FMQVK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

But the cookies didn't last that long to need it. :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 03, 2016, 01:49:03 pm
Thanks Gert for replying. I'm in the US now so couldn't find it in the shops. Will look on Amazon.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 03, 2016, 06:11:05 pm
Cookies Better than the ones I made  :o

Today Skyler made a batch of Chocolate chip cookies from the basic cookbook, with the following changes, make note Gals and Guys, she used GP flour, reduce the sugar by 1 oz .(05 brown and 0.5 white) increase the dark chocolate chips to 7 oz and we reduce the cook time to 11 minutes. These cookies are a home run. They are soft, have a raise to them, and look picture perfect. Yes my DGD out did me.  :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on September 03, 2016, 07:42:50 pm
Excellent cookies Skyler.Well done 8)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 03, 2016, 10:50:55 pm
Well done to your GD. They look delicious.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: gertbysea on September 04, 2016, 12:12:28 am
Forgot that MEP! You could also go to your local bakery and ask for some. I am sure they would sell you a small amount. I have never felt the need of the improver but lots of people use it.

Gert
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on September 04, 2016, 12:39:04 am
Good to see the family becoming involved in the TMX Allen.  Well done Skyler.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 04, 2016, 03:00:02 am
Skyler must have been very pleased with herself Allen. She certainly looks as though she is enjoying herself.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 04, 2016, 01:04:16 pm
Good to see the family becoming involved in the TMX Allen.  Well done Skyler.

Yes Judy, a family that cooks together stays together. And the TM5 makes it easy for everyone to use with its LCD step by step directions..
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 04, 2016, 01:11:02 pm
Styler must have been very pleased with herself Allen. She certainly looks as though she is enjoying herself.

Yes Cookie she was, at first she was a little nervous specially when she had to chop the chocolate and the TM5 startup but ones she got pass that it was down hill from there.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 05, 2016, 01:39:54 am
I apologise to you and Skyler Allen. I made a typo on her name. I have corrected it. I have a DD who goes crazy if her name is mis spelt.

I must agree with your statement about families cooking together. DD has been cooking since she was old enough to stand on a chair at the bench. She is now 35 and works in a very demanding job. Her fun time is adult Lego and cooking. Although she no longer needs the chair to reach the thermomix or Kitchen Aid.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on September 05, 2016, 02:47:32 am
LOL, I'm glad to hear that cookie.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 05, 2016, 12:17:22 pm
I apologise to you and Skyler Allen. I made a typo on her name. I have corrected it. I have a DD who goes crazy if her name is mis spelt.

No problem, I do that and a lot worst all the time.  :)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 05, 2016, 12:21:15 pm
Cupcakes and Waffles,

Saturday we had couple more grand-kid over for the night so my Saturday night and Sunday were busy, I made cupcake for the birthday party Red Velvet with white Vanilla icing was my order. Off to the web for the cake mix (I like trying new recipes) I found one call Southern Red Velvet it is a oil base cake (something I never had before and it was an easy switch to TMX), first add all the wet ingredients mix 30-45 seconds, speed 4/5 you are looking for a nice mix, no mayonnaise please, then sift all the dry ingredients twice (except the sugar only once the second sift) mix together about 60 seconds, speed 5, looking for a well mix wet batter. Cooking for cupcakes (24) 350f for about 20 minutes.

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon fine salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring (1 ounce)
1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/southern-red-velvet-cake-recipe.html?oc=linkback

DW and Skyler and the 5 year old (Conner) decorated the cupcakes.

In the morning we had Waffles I mix the ingredients in my TM5  60 sec, speed 5, I normally make this by hand in a bowl, but the TM5 did a better job and added air to my batter. I had tried to make the batter before in my old blender (Vitamix) but found the container to be too narrow to get the batter out, the wider bowl of the of the TMX worked a lot better this time.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on September 05, 2016, 01:32:57 pm
I bet the grandchildren love you Allen.  Great work there.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on September 05, 2016, 04:31:21 pm
Great cooking Allen. 8)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 05, 2016, 08:32:08 pm
I bet the grandchildren love you Allen.  Great work there.
Yes, they do love there grandparents, Alexandria always says  "grandpa makes the best bread" I  make her whole wheat bread and her busy Mom only give her store bought bread. The extra time we have after the kids are grow up. ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 06, 2016, 06:13:47 am
The waffles and cupcakes look great Allen. Well done. You sound like you are having great fun.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 07, 2016, 02:27:25 am
Today I hesitate on this post, but I am exploring the TM5 and this is what is happening. Up to this post it's been a bed of roses.

Within the first couple of days of cooking, I was cooking by the cookbook chip a screen pop up saying “deactivate reverse”  then the little reverse icon came on then the pop up window came back on, this probably happen 5-6 times then stop. Not sure on why this happen I keep moving forward. Then a few days later (8/31/16) it happen again, this time I had to tap next on the screen to clear it (I pass right by the step to add salt) not a critical step here noless I did miss it. I sent a email out to service @ thermomix.us  They where very fast in responding with a call and email they wanted to set up a video call so I could redo the steps when it happen, I explain to them it did not happen every time so a video call would not help. I was told they would get back with me by email, I quickly received a email asking me to check couple of thing and do a factory reset and to let them know when it was done. I did as they ask and respond back all went well until today (9/6/16) this time a scale window pop up something you don’t see when you are using the cookbook. I tried to grab my phone to get a video of it but by that time it had stop changing screens, but the pop up boxes was still there. I was able to get a video of it and showing I was unable to clear the screen. I had to turn the power off, then once it was back on I was able to finish my recipe. I sent service a email with the video I made, they respond back with a order number and telling me they will be shipping me a new one in the next 48 hours and provide me with a return shipping label for the TM5 I have now.

I was happy to see Thermomix do the right thing, I am hopeful that this is an isolated occurrence, anything man made will have a lemon get by now and then.

Things to note
It seem only to happen when I was using the cookbook, I never had a problem when I use it manually.
It happen with couple different recipes, so I do not think it's any special recipe.
I have recorded my serial number and firmware release to compare it to my new one I receive.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: gertbysea on September 07, 2016, 02:39:39 am
Sorry you are having problems Allen. No doubt there will be many teething problems with this machine in the US. Don't know if Vorwerek are really ready for it with they finally officially launch it. Hopefully they will have good distributors.

Gert
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 07, 2016, 04:43:21 am
What a nuisance Allen. It sounds as though they are aware of it and happy to replace your machine.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on September 07, 2016, 07:29:25 am
A quick reaction from them, that's pleasing to hear Allen.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 07, 2016, 11:24:38 am
Ladies, thank you for your support I am looking forward to having a Thermomix in my kitchen for many years, I just need Vorwerk to build a reliable machine and stand by what they sell. So far they are.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 14, 2016, 02:04:40 am
I received my new Thermomix today :) and shipped my first one back, I have been using the first TM5 while I was waiting for my new one to arrive, it never miss a beat. The last couple of days I have not tried anything new, so it’s time for something different maybe some jam and some quick puff pastry. My DW and I will be head to the Florida Golf Beachs next week for a week of camping 8) so we have a lot going on right now.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 14, 2016, 09:31:36 am
That sounds lovely Allen. You will have to post some photos.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cyberider on September 14, 2016, 08:56:45 pm
Glad to hear that, Allen.  Have fun camping and looking forward to more interesting posts on your return.  Enjoy reading all of the worldwide posts but particularly interesting to me reading about someone using the Thermomix in the USA.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 15, 2016, 02:37:04 am
Hi again Cyberider. MEP also lives in the US now.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 15, 2016, 03:17:33 am
Yes I do Cookie, but I still call Australia home. I'm desperate to return but hubby does not share my desire/need.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 15, 2016, 07:06:43 am
Maybe one day MEP.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 15, 2016, 12:35:06 pm
Quick Puff Pastry and Strawberry Jam

I been playing with my new TM5, made the quick puff pastry, the TM5 did a great job making the dough but the pastry was plain no flavor to them, it was just butter and GP flour so I thought it would had a buttery taste to them.

Strawberry jam, this is something I love and always wanted to make at home. I use the basic cookbook recipe, but substitute the lemon juice with 3 Tbs of ball realfruit classic pectin and add about 1 Tbs of butter. I cook the jam at 220f for 28mins. After refrigerator overnight the jam has setup, it is not as firm as store bought jam but not bad for my first attempt in making jam.

Next time I will reduce the chop time to have a more chunky jam. (Strawberry preserve) and cook it for couple more minutes and see how that works. Both my DW and I enjoy it.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 15, 2016, 01:16:51 pm
I love making jam in my thermomix. https://tenina.com/recipes/strawberry-vanilla-jam
This is my favourite Strawberry Jam recipe.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 15, 2016, 01:52:52 pm
I love making jam in my thermomix. https://tenina.com/recipes/strawberry-vanilla-jam
This is my favourite Strawberry Jam recipe.

Cookie

Looks good I will try the recipe next time, question it says to use Varoma that is the highest setting steam right, I read in the book that strawberry jam uses a lower setting around 220f also it's using speed 1 no blending first. Is this the way you are cooking it?

Thanks Allen
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cyberider on September 15, 2016, 04:18:27 pm
Allen:  Sure enjoying seeing all the things you are doing with your Thermomix.  If you keep this up, I may have to get one too!

Cookie:  Hello again too!  Been away for a few years and glad to be back.

MEP:  I've been listening to Radio Australia on shortwave for over 50 years.  Maybe you could relieve some of your homesickness if you listened too!
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Cornish Cream on September 15, 2016, 05:33:28 pm
Great cooking Allen. 8)
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 15, 2016, 07:03:46 pm
Allen:  Sure enjoying seeing all the things you are doing with your Thermomix.  If you keep this up, I may have to get one too!

Cyberider

Thanks for reading, so far the Thermomix has been a nice add on in my kitchen I been using it daily, and keep finding new uses for it. Last night I cook my DW her favorite grill steak, lobster tail and bake potato, I did the tails in the TM5, season them first then drop them in the pot steam basket, they came out great. I have been enjoying my TM5 since I got it and have not stop playing with it.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 16, 2016, 12:38:00 pm
I love making jam in my thermomix. https://tenina.com/recipes/strawberry-vanilla-jam
This is my favourite Strawberry Jam recipe.

Cookie

Looks good I will try the recipe next time, question it says to use Varoma that is the highest setting steam right, I read in the book that strawberry jam uses a lower setting around 220f also it's using speed 1 no blending first. Is this the way you are cooking it?

Thanks Allen

Allen I only use Varoma for the last few minutes as it says. I don't blend it first as I like bits of strawberry in it.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 16, 2016, 12:47:57 pm


Allen I only use Varoma for the last few minutes as it says. I don't blend it first as I like bits of strawberry in it.
[/quote]

Cookie

I am missing something here, what I am reading is "1  Place all ingredients into Thermo bowl and cook 25-35 min/Varoma/speed"
Varoma is the only temperature I am seeing. ???
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 16, 2016, 06:24:52 pm
You sound like the perfect DH Allen. Do you have a single brother?  ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 16, 2016, 06:39:22 pm
Oops, just remembered you have grandchildren. Do you have a single son who also cooks? Kidding of course, I'm married with children
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 16, 2016, 09:06:38 pm
You sound like the perfect DH Allen. Do you have a single brother?  ;D

Thank you MEP, I see you are in the USA, if you every come down to GA, I would love to cook a meal for you and your DH :)

PS, I do have a 27 year old son that I need a wife for. Do you know anyone?

Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 16, 2016, 11:06:03 pm
That's so kind Allen, thank you. How did you come across the thermomix? Did you own the TM31 (previous model)? You've certainly embraced it wholeheartedly.

We've only been in the US so don't know anyone single ladies in their twenties sorry. I'd be a cougar if I was to nominate myself, not to mention adulterer!
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on September 17, 2016, 03:35:00 am
I'm having a lovely chuckle here MEP and Allen. I have a single DD but it may be too far away! 

Sorry Allen for not checking the recipe properly. I actually use one for a book of Tenina's. Yes, it does say Varoma all the time. I would keep an eye on the jam from about 20 minutes.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 17, 2016, 10:39:10 am
Conflict regarding where to live makes international relationships very difficult Cookie - talking from personal experience here. That's not to say it's impossible, just more challenging.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on September 17, 2016, 06:03:48 pm
MEP

Few years back I saw the TM31 on the web, but could only get one thought Canada the cost was high so I pass on it. Then a few weeks back I saw the TM5 on eBay and I started looking on the web, there are no consultant in GA or the South East in the USA right now only in California, I was put in contact with Thermomix from a consultant in CA  I am hoping to learn the TM5 and become a consultant in GA once they are available here. I would like to get one for each of my kids. Right now they have service in TX and will be opening up in NY soon,

Cookie

You are great, now we just need to get the kids talking. ;D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 17, 2016, 07:00:08 pm
This could become forum thermomix and matchmaking.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: gertbysea on September 17, 2016, 11:35:05 pm
You will find Allen there are quite a few TM in the US. A  couple of fellows in  Texas tried to get it up and running a few years ago and others around the country have wanted to become consultants and indeed distributors but that is not the way Vorwerk works. Being a private and family controlled company they are not beholden to shareholders so they sometimes seem rudderless to me  especially they way they market the TM. This is more obvious as they are attempting the American market. They keep chopping and changing staff and they have a serious right hand left hand problem in my opinion.

Gert
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on September 17, 2016, 11:41:47 pm
Judging from my personal buying experience, I would have to agree that you may well be correct Gert. Like I said, there should be a price differential between full support vs no support experience. In fact, due to infrastructure perhaps?, but consultants only take your name and number, pass this through to head office who then contacts the customers to take the actual order and payment. So as a consultant, nice work if you can get it.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on October 07, 2016, 12:02:39 am
All is good :)

, it’s been couple of weeks since my last update DW and I had a great time on the beach weather was great and the food was good.

My new TM5 has been great, none of the weird screens have pop up like my first one did. I have not tried anything new but have been making my morning coffee daily. I did cook our dinner tonight in the TM5 plus are small oven for the bake potatoes.
I steam a salmon fillet in the upper tray and couple of tails in the lower basket, then the last 5 mins I add the bowl basket with some corn and fresh cut onion.(15 mins total time) I will say it came out great well season. I can also report my DW is also enjoying the food I am making in the TM5 and now she thinks the kids need one. This weekend I am hoping to make some cookies that my DW likes as a surprise she doesn't know I have the recipe.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: judydawn on October 07, 2016, 12:10:16 am
What a great husband you are Allen, do you think your wife will want to make something in the TM5 herself one day or are you the designated cook in the house?
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: Allen USA on October 07, 2016, 12:47:40 am
What a great husband you are Allen, do you think your wife will want to make something in the TM5 herself one day or are you the designated cook in the house?

I am hoping that she dose, but I know better then to push. The 19th i will be having surgery on my left shoulder and hand done and will not be able to cook for a few weeks maybe she will want to tried it out them. :D
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: MEP on October 07, 2016, 01:06:09 am
You certainly a gem of a DH Allen. I hope your DW knows that and shows her appreciation and gratitude accordingly.
Title: Re: Exploring the TM5
Post by: cookie1 on October 07, 2016, 01:50:39 am
I hope your surgery goes well Allen. I was in a similar situation a couple of years ago and my DH used the thermomix with me standing there giving him instructions. He coped very well.