"Desert-Safe" Recipes For Troops Abroad Provided Courtesy of

Sending cookies and brownies across the miles to our military troops stationed abroad is a special way to share the goodness and love of a home-baked treat with those far away.

Many concerned groups and individuals across the country have expressed interest in sending baked goods to the U.S. troops in the Middle East. In response, the Toll House Test Kitchen has modified favorite Toll House recipes to withstand the desert heat and to meet the restrictions of the Middle East countries. Middle East countries prohibit the following because they are contrary to the Islamic religion:

• The entry of pork or pork by-products
• Alcoholic beverages (or items containing any alcohol, including vanilla)
• Home-baked treats should not contain allspice or nutmeg--spices are considered aphrodisiacs.

A card should be included with the package stating that the products were made following these guidelines. This will facilitate passage into the country.

In addition, address the package to a specific person. The U.S. Postal Service will not accept mail addressed to "Any Serviceman".

To ensure that baked goods will withstand the high desert heat, please review the tips below:

• No butter, margarine, peanut butter or nuts should be used. These fats will go rancid too fast in the high heat. Butter flavored vegetable shortening is a better alternative.

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