Cajun Spices Add Zest To Turkey Loaf

Each year deserving piano students are awarded University of Hawaii applied music scholarships though the Honolulu Piano Teachers Association (HPTA) fundraiser.

Suzanne Machbitz, a Hawaii Kai piano teacher, recently became recording secretary of HPTA and shared with me some history and current news about the esteemed association.

Formed in 1950, the group continues to reach out to its members, their students and the community. It seeks out good music, creates fellowship among colleagues and maintains ethical standards in the profession. The association regularly sponsors social events in honor of visiting artists, which allow members, students and the community to meet internationally renowned musicians.

This year’s benefit concert is Oct. 7 in Orvis Auditorium at the University of Hawaii and will feature guest artist Jordan Segundo of American Idol fame. For more information, including scholarship applications and tickets, contact HPTA president Carolyn Stanton at carolyn-stanton@hotmail.com, or Michelle Aczon at aczon-notes@hawaii.rr.com

Cajun seasoning contains a variety of spices including onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, thyme, basil, red pepper, nutmeg and bay leaf. There are many commercial seasoning mixes on the market, but some contain MSG, so check ingredient lists, and be sure to look at the sodium content. You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing 1 teaspoon each of the spices listed above and omit the salt, or you can experiment with the seasoning to your liking.

LOUISIANA STYLE TURKEY MEATLOAF

• 2 pounds ground turkey breast

• 2 egg whites, slightly beaten

• 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

• 3 tablespoons finely chopped Maui onions

• 1/4 cup tomato sauce (try no salt added)

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce mixed with 1 teaspoon

Cajun seasoning

Preheat oven to 350 degrees; coat baking pan with cooking spray. Mix turkey and egg whites until combined. Add bread crumbs, onion and tomato sauce, and mix thoroughly, adding more crumbs if necessary so that turkey holds together. Form into a loaf, making three small inden tations in top, and place on prepared pan. Bake for about 50 minutes or until turkey juices are running clear, and brush with barbecue sauce mixture. Put back in oven for about 10 minutes longer until top is nicely browned (check to see that top does not burn).

Makes eight slices.

Approximate Nutrition Information Per Slice:

Calories: 180 Fat: 4 grams Cholesterol: 75 milligrams Sodium: 350 (will vary with seasoning and barbecue sauce used)