Friday, December 27, 2013

Cauliflower Chowder




2 cups cauliflower florets
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
1- 1 1/2 cups chopped cooked ham
1/2 cup corn (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoon water
3 green onions chopped
Salt and black pepper if needed
Shredded Cheddar cheese

Cook the cauliflower with the chicken broth in a medium saucepan for about 10 minutes until cauliflower is tender. Add the ham, milk, butter and the cornstarch dissolved in the water and cook until it thickens slightly, it takes about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper if needed. Remove from the stove and add some green onions. Save some for garnishing. Serve hot sprinkling with some Cheddar cheese.

Note: You can add 1/2 cup frozen corn along with the ham and remaining ingredients.

Makes 4 servings


Saturday, December 14, 2013

Ali's Snickerdoodles

Very yummy cookies.
Courtesy of my friend Ali.




1 cup shortening
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Cream shortening with 1 1/2 cups sugar. Add eggs stirring until combined. Add in vanilla extract. Stir.
Reserving the 2 tablespoons sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon aside, mix the remaining dry ingredients and sift. Add 1/2 cup dry mixture to wet mixture stirring until combined. Form into balls the size of walnuts (it is easier to form the balls before chilling the dough so they stay together, if you do it after, they tend to crumble more and tend to take more time to "coax" together.

Mix the 2 tablespoons sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon in a coffee mug. Drop the balls into the mug and swirl around to coat. Refrigerate to chill dough for about 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 400 F (high altitude 410 F). Place coated balls 2 inches apart on  ungreased flat stone or cookie sheet.  Bake 10-12 minutes on a stone or 8-10 on cookie sheet. Remove from the oven when they are cracked and puffed on top. Allow to cool (they will fall a bit here) before transferring to a cooling rack.

High Altitude adjustments:

Less 1 tablespoon shortening
Less 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
More 5 1/2 teaspoons flour
Less 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
More 10 F on original temperature


Makes 37 cookies cooked closer to 9-10 minutes.



Sunday, December 8, 2013

Fluffy Honey Wheat Dinner Rolls

Blog: Jamie cooks it up.

www.jamiecooksitup.net



2 cups wheat flour
2 cups white flour, divided
3/4 cup hot milk
3/4 cup hot water
1/4 honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon yeast (I use active dry)
6 tablespoons butter, softened

Preheat your oven to 170 F degrees.

Into a stand mixer, place 2 cups wheat flour (I use freshly ground white winter wheat...but any flour will do).

Add 1 cup white flour and 1/4 cup honey.

Pour yourself 3/4 cup of milk and heat it up in the microwave for 2 minutes. Add it to the mixing bowl along with 3/4 cup of hot water. Your hot water should be hot to the touch but not so hot that it burns your hand when you touch it.

Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 6 tablespoons of the softened butter. Turn the mixer to low speed and allow the ingredients to blend together for about 1 minute.

Add 1 tablespoon of yeast. Mix for about 30 seconds.

While the machine is mixing, add 1 more cup of white flour. Allow the dough to mix for another minute or so. The dough should start to pull away from the sides of the bowl. This is an indication that you have enough flour. If the dough remains stuck to the sides of the bowl sprinkle a bit more flour (up to 1/2 a cup) into the bowl. Once you have the correct amount of flour added, turn the mixer to medium speed and let the dough mix for 5 minutes.

Grab a 13 x 9-inch baking pan and coat the bottom and sides with some butter. Place the dough into the middle of the pan. Using a sharp knife cut the dough into 16 equal pieces. Then roll each piece into a ball.

Place the pan into your warm oven and let the rolls rise for about 15 minutes or until doubled in size.

Turn your oven up to 350 degrees. Leave the rolls in the oven while the temperature rises. Allow the rolls to bake until golden brown (mine took about 13 minutes).

Remove the pan from the oven and brush soft butter over the top of each roll. Allow them to rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, serve and enjoy.

Yield: 16 rolls

Note: Since I live in a high altitude town (over 7,000 feet), it took like 40 minutes to double in size and I baked them for about 20-22 minutes.


Sunday, December 1, 2013

Italian Bread

Fix-it and Enjoy it Cookbook.
www.fixitandforgetit.com




2 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon dry yeast
1 cup warm (120-130) water
1 tablespoon oil

Topping:

1/4-1/3 cup Italian salad dressing (I reduced to half)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Dash of pepper
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt and yeast.

In a separate bowl, mix water ad oil together. Add to flour mixture.

Stir well, add more flour if needed to form soft dough.

Place dough on lightly floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes. or until smooth. Place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.

Knead dough down. Then, place on a 12-inch pizza pan. Roll or pat into a 12-inch circle.

Brush with salad dressing.

Combine seasonings and sprinkle over top. Sprinkle with cheeses.

Bake at 450 F for 15 minutes (Mine took less time) or until golden brown. Cover with foil tent to prevent overbrowning if necessary.

Cut into narrow wedges and serve warm.

Makes 6 servings


Ham Corn and Broccoli Chowder





1 1/2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
1 1/4 cups frozen corn
1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1 cup chicken broth
2/3 cup cubed ham
2 cups broccoli florets
2 3/4 cups fat-free milk, divided
3/4 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 teaspoon table salt or to taste
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Extra shredded Cheddar cheese for topping


Place the onions and potatoes in a saucepan and add the chicken broth. Cook uncovered until almost tender.

Add the corn, broccoli, ham and 2 1/2 cups milk. Cook uncovered on medium-low heat until the broccoli is tender.

Meanwhile dissolve the flour in the 1/4 cup milk until no lumps remain and add to the broccoli mixture. Cook stirring until it thickens. Add the salt and pepper. Finally, stir in the cheese and stir until it melts completely.

Serve hot. Sprinkle with some extra shredded Cheddar cheese.


Makes 4 servings


Thursday, November 28, 2013

Colada de Avena Quaker (Ecuadorian Quaker Oatmeal Drink)

In Ecuador, we cook the fresh pulp of maracuya (passion fruit) or ripe naranjilla with the water and spices. Here in USA, I use frozen pineapple juice concentrate. It works really well.




4 cups water
Some cinnamon sticks
Some whole allspice
Some whole cloves
1/2 cup quick-cooking oatmeal
1 cup cold water
1 can frozen pineapple juice
Some vanilla extract
Sugar to taste

Boil the 4 cups of water with the cinnamon, cloves and allspice in a covered pot on low heat for 10-15 minutes.

Meanwhile, soak the oatmeal with the 1 cup water; let it rest.

Once the boiling water has all the flavor of the spices, add the oatmeal mixture and turn the low to medium. Cook stirring until the mixture is thick. Remove from the stove top.

Using a colander on top of a deep pot, strain the oatmeal mixture. Use a wooden spoon to help the mixture go through the colander. If necessary, use a little bit of water as well. Discard what remains in the strainer.

Once you have a very thick strained mixture, add some of the frozen pineapple juice and let it thaw. If necessary add more water and sugar to taste. Finally, strain the colada one more time and at the end, add some vanilla extract.

Serve over ice cubes.

Makes 6-8 servings



Creamy Crock-pot Chicken with Broccoli over Rice


Clipping Money
www.clippingmoney.blogspot.com

Picky Palate
www.picky-palate.com





3-4 boneless chicken breasts (thawed or frozen)
1 can (10 3/4 oz) cream of chicken
1 (10 3/4 oz) Cheddar cheese soup
1 can (14 oz) chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt seasoning
1 cup sour cream
6 cups broccoli florets, just fork tender (I cook them in boiling water just 3-4 minutes)
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Place soups, chicken broth, salt, garlic salt seasoning into a crock-pot over low heat. Whisk until smooth. Place chicken in pressing to the bottom. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 hours.

When chicken is cooked use two forks to shred the chicken. Stir in sour cream and broccoli.

Serve over steamed rice and sprinkle with cheese.

Yield: 4-6 servings


Saturday, November 16, 2013

Sugar Cookies



1 cup butter, softened
1 egg
1 cup Confectioner's sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream the butter for a couple of minutes. Add the sugar and keep beating. Sir in the egg and vanilla and combine well beating at low speed.

Mix the dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Little by little add the flour mixture to the butter mixture beating on low speed until thoroughly combined.

Using a rubber spatula, remove the dough from the mixer bowl onto a floured surface. If  the dough is too sticky, add more flour tablespoon by tablespoon until the dough is no longer sticky.

Using a floured rolling pin, roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness. Using floured cookie cutters, cut out some shapes. Bake at 350 F on an ungreased baking sheet for 9-11 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove the cookies to a cooling rack. Cool completely.

Glaze:

Powdered sugar mixed with a little bit of water until it has a thick consistency.

Spread some glaze on the cooled cookies and decorate as desired. My kids sprinkled some colored sugar and some sprinkles.

Yield: It depends on the size of the cookie cutters.



Thursday, November 14, 2013

Lentil Soup

Everyday Food Magazine




3 strips bacon (3 ounces), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 large onion, chopped
3 medium, carrots, peeled, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch half-moons
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 1/2 cups lentils, picked over and rinsed
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth (3 1/2 cups)
1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar
Coarse salt and ground pepper

In a Dutch oven (or another 5-quart pot with a tight-fitting lid), cook bacon over medium-low heat until browned and crisp, 8-10 minutes. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon fat.

Add onion and carrots; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, and cook until fragant, about 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste, and cook 1 minute.

Add lentils, thyme, broth, and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil; reduce to a simmer. Cover; cook until lentils are tender, 30 to 45 minutes.

Stir in vinegar, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings

Note: I decreased the amount of salt a little bit. You can always add more water if the soup is too thick, add up to one cup more water if needed.


Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Chicken Tortilla Soup In the Slow-Cooker

I found this recipe in a magazine but I made several changes.




4 big boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
2 medium-size carrots, peeled and finely diced
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1 small jalapeno, seeded and minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups frozen corn
2 cans (10 3/4 oz) Cheddar cheese soup
3 3/4 cups store-bought chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4-1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 cup extra chicken broth

Toppings:

Fresh chopped cilantro
Tortilla strips
Shredded Mexican Cheese blend
Diced avocado

Place all the ingredients except the cornstarch, extra chicken broth and toppings.

Cook on LOW heat for 6-7 hours. Add the cornstarch dissolved in the extra chicken broth and cook on HIGH for 20-30 more minutes.

Serve hot garnishing with desired toppings.

Makes  6-8 servings


Buttermilk Cornbread

Best Cornbread recipe ever.

Gooseberry Patch Cookbook

www.gooseberrypatch.com




1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornmeal
1/3 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream or buttermilk
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Cream the butter with the sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time beating after each addition. Add the sour cream.

Mix the dry ingredients in a medium-size bowl. Add this ingredients to the creamed mixture and combine until well-blended.

Grease and flour a 8 x 8 -inch baking pan. Spread the mixture on the baking pan. Bake in a preheated 350 F for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serve warm with honey butter.

Serves 9


Saturday, November 2, 2013

Grilled Bulgogi Flank Steak

I got this recipe from a magazine. I forgot the name of the magazine but I will find out and add a link to the website.




1 (2 lb) flank steak

Marinade:

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
1 tablespoons grated ginger root
1 teaspoon red chili flakes (I only used 1/2 teaspoon)

Place the marinade in a resealable plastic bag. Place the meat inside the bag and close it well. Squeeze the bag trying to cover the meat with the marinade. Let it rest in the refrigerator for 12 hours.

Discard the marinade. Grill the flank steak in a covered grill, 9 minutes per side or to desired doneness.

Once it is ready, remove from the grill onto a platter and cover with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes and then slice across the grain. Serve immediately.


Wednesday, October 30, 2013

BBQ Country-Style Pork Ribs in the Slow Cooker

Among all the type of ribs, I love country-style pork ribs. Why? Because I love pork and they are meaty. We like saucy stuff so we can have some gravy over our rice or mashed potatoes.





3 pounds country-style ribs (trimmed most of the fat with kitchen scissors)

Sauce:

3/4 cup Famous Dave's Sweet and Zesty BBQ sauce
1/2 cup water
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon cider vinegar
1/2 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1/8-1/4 teaspoon cayenner pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Mix the sauce ingredients and pour half the sauce in bottom of a big slow-cooker. Place the ribs on top and pour the remaining sauce. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 1/2-4 hours.

Serve over hot rice or mashed potatoes.

Makes 6 servings

Friday, October 25, 2013

Cheeseburger Paradise Soup

My husband does not like Velveeta Cheese, so I used 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese.
I have also decreased the amount of beef to 1 pound and it has been perfectly fine. Season the beef with salt and pepper when you brown it, it will taste better.

Taste of Home Magazine
www.tasteofhome.com


 


6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 small carrot, grated
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
2 tablespoons chopped seeded Jalapeno pepper
3 cups water
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons bouillon granules
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 pounds ground beef
1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
2 tablespoons butter
5 cups 2 % milk, divided
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 package (16 oz) process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
Crumbled cooked bacon

In  a Dutch oven, bring the first 9 ingredients to a boil. Redice heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Meanwhile in a large skillet, cook beef and  mushrooms in butter oevr medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add to soup. Stir in 4 cups of milk. Heat through.

In a small bowl, combine flour and milk until smooth; gradually stir into soup. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat; stir in cheese until bacon. Garnish with bacon.

Yield: 14 servings (3 1/2 quarts)

Note: Wear disposable gloves when cutting hot peppers; the oils can burn skin. Avoid touching your face.


Thai Chicken Curry

Taste of Home Magazine
www.tasteofhome.com




1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup light coconut milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons red curry paste
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice

6 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup unsweetened flaked coconut

Cook the chicken in a skillet with hot oil adding salt and pepper and cook until no longer pink.

Mix the sauce ingredients and add to the chicken and cook until the sauce thickens. Add the green onions and remove from the heat.

Serve over cooked brown rice (or white) and garnish with the coconut.

Makes 6 servings

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Lemon Orzo and Meatball Soup

This soup is really good. I decreased the amount of lemon zest and lemon juice since I know my kids' taste buds really well.

Southern Living Magazine

www.southernliving.com







1 lb ground chicken
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons loosely packed lemon zest, divided
1 teaspoon dried crushed rosemary, divided
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 medium-size sweet onion, chopped
3 carrots, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 (32 oz) containers chicken broth
5-6 tablespoons lemon juice
3/4 cup orzo pasta
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

Combine first 4 ingredients, 2 teaspoons lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon rosemary in a medium bowl. Shape into 30 (1-inch) meatballs, about 1 level tablespoon each.

Saute meatballs in two batches, in 1 tablespoon hot oil pero batch in a Dutch oven over medium heat 3 to 4 minutes or until browned. Remove using a slotted spoon.

Saute onion and next 2 ingredients in remaining 1 tablespoon hot oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat 3-5 minutes or until tender. Stir in broth, lemon juice and remaining 2 teaspoons lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon rosemary. Bring to a boil. stirring ocassionally. Add orzo. Reduce heat to medium; simmer stirring occasionally, 7-9 minutes or until pasta is almost tender.

Stir in meatballs, simmer stirring occasionally, 5-7 minutes or until meatballs are thoroughly cooked. Add salt and pepper to taste. Top with cheese and parsley.

Makes 3 quarts

Note. I only used the grated zest of 2 lemons and 4 tablespoons lemon juice.

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

El Italiano Sandwich

I came up with this recipe one night that I did not feel like cooking and had some smoked sausage in the fridge and some whole wheat bolillos.




14 oz smoked sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices
1/2 big red bell pepper, cut into strips
1/2 green bell pepper, cut into strips
1/2 yellow onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Shredded Pizza cheese to taste
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 whole wheat bolillos or hoagies

In a big skillet, heat up 1 tablespoon oil and cook the sliced sausage on both sides until lightly browned. Remove to a plate and add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet and cook the peppers and onion for about 2 minutes. Put the sausage back in the skillet and add the tomato sauce, oregano and season with salt and black pepper. Mix well and cook for about 2-4 minutes. Add the cheese and cover with a lid, just to melt the cheese.

Divide the sausage mix evenly among the 6 pieces of bread. Serve immediately.

Makes 6 sandwiches.



Chicken Enchilada Soup (Crock-Pot)

I liked this soup a lot but since I have little kids, I will use regular canned diced tomatoes and some canned green chilies to taste next time.

www.jamiecooksitup.net


 

1 (14.5 oz) can Mexican-Style stewed tomatoes
2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
2 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup green or red pepper, chopped
2 chicken breasts (I used frozen)
1 (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
1 (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
2 1/2 cups milk
4 chicken bouillon cubes or 4 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
1/2 teaspoon lime juice (can be bottled)
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons butter

Toppings:

Tortilla chips
Cheese
Cilantro
Avocado

Pour the whole can of tomatoes into the crok-pot, juice included. Diced tomatoes work best. If you only have stewed tomatoes, cut them up with kitchen scissors.

Add the black beans and corn to the pot. Toss the onion an bell pepper in the crock-pot.

Pour the enchilada sauce into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the cream of chicken soup, the milk and then crumble the chicken bouillon over the top. Whisk it all together until nice and smooth.

Place two chicken breasts over the vegetables in your crockpot. Pour the sauce over the top of the chicken. Cover your crock-pot and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 7-8 hours depending on how fast your crock-pot cooks things.

Remove the chicken and place it on a plate. Shred it with a fork. Add the lime juice, sour cream and butter to the soup. Whisk it in until the butter has melted and the sour cream is well-combined. Toss your chicken back into the pot, give it a stir and you are ready to eat.

Serve with the toppings.

Yield: 8 servings
 
 
 

Julia's Tamale Griddle Cakes

My friend Julia Baker shared this recipe on her blog. I am always looking for vegetarian choices so this was a good one. My husband poured some green salsa on top of his food.

www.neighborjulia.com




1 can corn, drained (approximately 1 1/2 cups)
1/4 cup butter, softened
3 tablespoons sugar
Heaping 1/2 cup scoop Masa Harina
Pinch salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2-3/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth (I used less)

In a blender or food processor, process 3/4 cup of the corn and all of the butter together until smooth. Pour into bowl and add the other 3/4 cup corn kernels. Add all other ingredients except broth. Start by adding 1/2 cup of the broth and mix well. Add more broth as needed to completely moisten batter.
The batter will be thick however.

Shape into 12 small patties. Cook on a non-stick griddle like pancakes, allowing tamale cakes to brown on both sides. I also used the spatula to flatten them a bit which helped them cook. Top with your favorite toppings: Pork, chicken, cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado etc.

Makes 12 silver dollar-sized patties

Sunday, October 13, 2013

Tomato-Basil Parmesan Soup

www.pinfoody.com

This is a great recipe, yummy soup. I made a couple of changes to the original recipe.

I did not use 1/2 cup butter, I used 1 1/2 tablespoons instead and only 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese.
I did not make the roux, I added 2 cups of the cooked soup (let it cool down first and mix it with the flour and butter and cook until it thickens). I also decreased the amount of salt a little bit.

I have no doubt that the original recipe is great but I just wanted to cut on some calories, the result was really good.




2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced carrots
1 teaspoon dried oregano o 1 tablespoon fresh
1 tablespoon dried basil or 1/4 cup fresh basil
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 bay leaf
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup butter
2 cups half and half, warmed (I would only go with 1 1/2 cups though)
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Add tomatoes, onions, carrots, celery, dried oregano, basil and chicken broth to a large slow-cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 5-7 hours until flavors are blended and vegetables are soft.

About 30 minutes before serving, prepare a roux. Melt butter over low heat in a skillet and add flour. Stir constantly with a whisk for 5-7 minutes. Slowly stir in 1 cup hot soup. Add another 3 cups and stir until smooth. Add it back into the slow-cooker. Stir and add the Parmesan cheese, warm half and half, salt and pepper. Add additional basil and oregano if needed. (Spices can get bland on slow-cooker so do not be afraid to always season to taste at the end). Cover and cook on LOW for 30 minutes or so until ready to serve.

Makes 6 regular servings



Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Cinnamon-Sour Cream Streusel Loaf

Southern Living Christmas Cookbook 1998

www.southernliving.com




1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Filling:

1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Mix the filling ingredients and set aside.

Cream the butter and sugar, add vanilla and sour cream and keep beating until creamy and fluffy. Add the egg and beat well.

Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl and then add them to the creamy mixture beating on slow speed just until combined.

Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Pour 1/2 of the batter into the pan, spread carefully. Sprinkle 1/2 the filling mixture on top of the batter; add the remaining batter on top of the filling, using a knife or small spatula spread carefully. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 of the filling on top of the batter.

Bake in a preheated 350 F for 1 hour. If the topping browns too quickly, cover with some aluminum foil. It is ready when a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean. Place the pan on a rack and let it cool for 10 minutes or so. Unmold the bread and cool completely on the rack.

Note: I only baked it for 50-55 minutes and I had to cover the loaf pan with aluminum foil.


Sunday, October 6, 2013

Chicken Gumbo

I found this recipe on a magazine last month. I do not remember the name of the magazine but I could remember the ingredients and the instructions today. This Chicken Gumbo was very good. I know that there are many varitions and most of them include seafood but my husband is not really fond of seafood so this was a great choice.




 

3 lb skinless bone-in chicken thighs
1 large onion, chopped
3/4 cup each chopped red and green bell pepper
2 celery ribs, chopped
1/2 cup vegetable oil plus 2 tablespoons
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 lb andouille sausage (I used smoked sausage), sliced
2 cups chicken broth
4 cups water

Garnish:

Sliced green onions

Season the chicken with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and 1/2 the amount of salt and pepper.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a big pan and cook the sausage there, just to brown a little bit. Remove the sausage to a plate. Add another tablespoon of oil and cook the onion and peppers until tender. Remove to the same plate with the sausage.

Add 1/2 cup oil to the pan and the flour. Cook on very low heat for 30 minutes until the roux is dark brown but not burned. Stir in all the ingredients and cook until it reaches a boiling point. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 hour.

Remove the bay leaves and the chicken thighs. When the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred into fairly big pieces.

Serve in bowl and add some rice in the center. Sprinkle some green onions on top.

Note: You can add a couple fo dashes of Tabasco sauce.



Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Oatmeal Muffins with Dried Cranberries

I found this recipe on the back of the KROGER white whole wheat flour bag. Really good!


 
 
2/3 cup whole milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup unsulfured molasses
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 cup white whole wheat flour
1 cup quick-cooking oats
1 tablespoon double-acting baking powder
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dried cranberries

Preheat oven to 400 F (375 convection oven).

In a bowl combine the milk, oil, brown sugar. molasses and egg. In a large bowl combine the dried ingredients and cranberries. Stirn in milk mixture until it is just combined. Mixture should be lumpy.
Spoon batter into 12 paper-lined 1/2 cup muffin tins, filling them 2/3 full and bake muffins for 15 minutes (12 minutes in convection) until they are springy on top to the touch.

Makes 12 muffins


Oven-Baked Spanish Tortilla

In Ecuador, a tortilla is not what we find in Mexican food, the flat and round corn or flour tortilla. For us, a tortilla is an omelette same as in Spain.
This is not the traditional way Spaniards make Spanish Potato omelette but it is a great recipe. It can be served with some green salad at dinner time or with some fruit at breakfast time.

Recipe from Woman's Day Magazine with permission from the Casserole Queens, Make-A-Meal Cookbook by Crystal Cook and Sandy Pollock.


 


2 tablespoons olive oil plus more for the dish
1 lb Yukon gold potatoes cut into 1/2-inch pieces
Kosher salt and pepper
4 scallions
1 medium red pepper, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1-3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
10 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
6 ounces extra sharp Cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan (about 2 oz)

Heat oven to 375 F. Lightly oil a 2-quart baking dish. Place the potatoes in a saucepan. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt. Reduce the heat and simmer until just tender 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, chop the white and light green parts of the scallions and thinly slice the dark green parts; keep separate.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped scallion, red pepper, garlic and crushed pepper and cook, stirring until the vegatables are just tender, 5-6 minutes. Add the potatoes and gently mix to combine. Transfer the vegatable mixture to the prepared baking dish.

In a large bowl, mix together the eggs and sour cream. Stir in the Cheddar, Parmesan, sliced scallion and 1/2 teaspoon each, salt and pepper. Our the egg mixture over the vegetables and gently stir to distribute the ingredients.

Bake until puffed, golden brown and just set in the center, 35-40 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Makes 10 servings


Saturday, September 21, 2013

Healthy Apple Bran Muffins

www.neighborjulia.com

Julia Layman Baker

Really good recipe. I added 1/4 cup raisins. Julia suggests that you add 2 tablespoons sugar if you like them sweeter.



Non-stick cooking spray
1 1/4 cups bran flakes
1 cup all-purpose flour ( or 1/2 all-purpose flour and 1/2 whole wheat flour)
1/2 cup skim milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 teaspoons salt
1 egg, beaten
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup honey
1 cup finely chopped apples

In a medium bowl, combine milk and bran flakes. Set aside and let siften into mush.  In a large bowl, combine dry products and make a well in the middle. Set aside.

To bran mixture, add eggs, applesauce and honey. Add bran mixture to bran products. Stir just until moistened. Fold in apples. Bake at 400 degrees for 16-18 minutes.

Makes 12 muffins

Note: Do not use pan liners as these muffins are really moist and will stick to the paper. Instead use a non-stick baking spray with flour in it and spray down your muffin pan really well.



Chocolate Chips Elvis Pancakes

Taste of Home Magazine
www.tasteofhome.com



1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 cup buttermilk
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup chopped bananas
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. In a different bowl, mix the wet ingredients and then add the dry to the wet and stir to combine. Stir in the bananas and chocolate chips.

Cook on  a hot griddle according to manufacturer's directions using 1/4 cupful of batter.

Pepper Steak with Rice

The Mormon Family Cookbook

Helen Thackeray, Maurine Hegsted and Beth Nelms Brown



1 lb lean beef round steak, cut into 1/2 inches thick
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups beef broth
2 green peppers, cut into strips
1 cup sliced green onions including tops
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup soy sauce (I use reduced-sodium)
2 large fresh tomatoes, cut into eights

Pound steak to 1/4 inch thick; cut into 1/4-inch strips. In a big skillet, heat the butter and brown meat. Add the garlic and beef broth. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes on low heat. Stir in the green peppers and green onions. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.

Blend the cornstarch with the water and soy sauce. Stir into the meat mixture. Cook until clear and thickened, about 2 minutes.

Add the tomatoes and heat through.

Serve over rice.


Makes 6 servings

Note: I like to add the green onions when I add the tomatoes so they do not wilt.


Monday, September 16, 2013

Basil Mayonnaise Spread for Sandwiches

This recipe was in one of the issues of Paula Deen's Magazine.




1/4 cup Mayonnaise (I used Light or Reduced-Fat)
2 tablespooons chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon salt (I sed half of that)

Mix and refrigerate until use.

  

Banana-Strawberry Smoothie

After buying a bottle of Boltfarms banana-strawberry smoothie which I loved, I decided to make my own version at home.




Blend until smooth:

2/3 cup fat-free milk
2/3 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
1/3 cup frozen unsweetened apple juice concentrate, thawed
2 1/2 bananas, peeled and chopped (I like to use frozen)
1 big Granny Smith's apple peeled or unpeeled and chopped
7-8 big strawberries, fresh or frozen
Honey to taste if needed

Makes 4 servings


Friday, September 13, 2013

Parmesan Chicken Burgers

Rescue Dinners Cookbook by Robin Miller
Food Network Host



Cooking spray
1 lb ground chicken
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/3 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Mix all the ingredients and shape into 4 patties, 1-inch thick.

In a large skillet, stovetop grill pan or griddle sprayed with cooking sprayed and over medium -high heat, cook the patties 3 minutes per side or until cooked through and no longer pink in center.

Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top (I did thin slices) and tent with aluminum foil. Cook for 1 minute or until cheese is melted.

Serve on hamburger buns with tomato slices and fresh basil leaves.

Makes 4 servings

Note: I made 8 little patties for 8 sliders and decreased the cooking time. I also used whole wheat buns.





Thursday, September 12, 2013

Creamy Fruity Oatmeal

I got this recipe from my friend Debbie Lancaster. I love oatmeal so this is a great choice for breakfast.


1 (6 oz) container yogurt (It could be low-fat, fat-free, any flavor)
1/4 cup quick-cooking oats
1/4 cup your favorite fruit (mandarin oranges, berries, apples, bananas, peaches etc etc etc)

Mix everything. Pour in a container and cover with a lid. Refrigerate until the next day.

Note: Mine has a mixture of blueberries and strawberries.

Makes 1 serving


Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Parmesan Fries

Rescue Dinners Cookbook by Robin Miller
Food Network Host

My kids like these fries with ketchup but I love them just like that or with a main dish as a side.



Non-stick cooking spray
2 large baking potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick strips
Salt
Black pepper
Grated Parmesan cheese

Transfer the potatoes to a large baking sheet that has been coated with non-stick cooking spray. Spread out in a single layer. Spray the potatoes with the cooking spray. Season with salt and black pepper and then sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.

Bake in a 400 F preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and golden brown.

Makes 4 servings

Note: I baked them for 30 minutes.


Monday, September 9, 2013

Pineapple Banana Smoothies

Rescue Dinners by Robin Miller (Cookbook)
Food Network Host

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her book. Very easy, balanced and tasty meals. If you do not have it yet, you need to go and buy it.




2 large ripe bananas (I cut them into thick slices and freeze them)
2 (10 oz) cans crushed pineapple packed in pineapple juice, undrained
1 cup vanilla yogurt (low-fat)
1/2 cup ice cubes (I use 1 cup)

Place everything in the blender and liquefy until smooth.

If  desired, grated some fresh nutmeg on top of each serving.

Makes 4 servings



Friday, September 6, 2013

Overnight Peaches and Cream French Toast

All You Magazine

www.allyou.com




2 (8 oz) loaf French bread, sliced
2 cups whole milk
8 large eggs
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 (15 oz) cans sliced peaches, packed in juice, drained

1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup heavy cream

Butter a 13 x 9 baking dish. Arrange bread in a tight, flat single layer.

In a large bowl, whisk milk with eggs, sugar and vanilla extract until blended. Pour over bread.
Arrange peaches on top and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.

Remove baking dish from refrigerator at least 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350 F. Pour cream into a small saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until reduce by half, about 10 minutes. Drizzle over peaches and bake uncovered until casserole is slightly browned on top and just cooked through, 45-55 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Yield: six servings

Note: I sliced the bread slices thick like in the picture. I could only fit 7-8 diagonally slices. I fed more than 6 people. Easy to reheat on the microwave the day after.

I used fat-free milk and cholesterol-free, calorie-free eggs.



Saturday, August 31, 2013

Sauted Mushroom and Vegetables

We love this dish. We usually top our grilled steaks with a generous helping of this cheesy side dish.




8 oz fresh mushrooms, cleaned with a damp towel and quartered
1/2 medium yellow onion, sliced
1/2 medium green bell pepper, sliced
1/2 medium red bell pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 big clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon steak sauce (A1)
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
Provolone cheese, shredded or sliced

In a big skillet, heat up the oil and butter. Once it is hot, add the mushrooms and cook on medium-high heat, stirring now and then. Let the mushrooms get lightly browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Season with black pepper. Add the onion, peppers and garlic and cook on medium heat until the peppers and onions are starting to wilt. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley and combine. Add a little bit of salt if necessary (the Worcestershire and steak sauce have salt). 

Spread the mixture in the same skillet in a single layer. Cover with some cheese' sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley. Put the lid on the skillet. Reduce the heat to very low until the cheese melts.

Serve immediately.

Makes 4-6 servings




Friday, August 30, 2013

Multi-grain Pancakes

Another recipe of All You cookbook. Very good flavor and texture.

www.allyou.com



3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
2 tablespoons cornmeal
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup whole milk (I used fat-free)
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix the dry ingredients in a medium-size bowl. In another bowl, mix the remaining ingredients. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ones and stir until just combined.

Cook on a hot griddle according to the manufacturer's directions.

Note: I added 1/8-1/4 cup more milk to make the batter thinner and easier to cook thoroughly. Serve with fresh fruit, maple syrup or warm honey.


Makes 12-14 medium-size pancakes



Thursday, August 29, 2013

Chocolate Cupcakes

I found this recipe in a cookbook called All You. I am pretty sure it was a compilation of some recipes published in the All You Magazine.

I would use some cream cheese frosting on top of each cupcake.

www.allyou.com



1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Do not use dark cocoa)
4 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs, separated
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (I used a total 1/3 cup regular semi-sweet chocolate chips and milk chocolate chips combined)

Mix the dry ingredients except the sugar and set aside.

In another bowl, cream sugar, butter and vanilla until creamy. Add egg yolks, one at a time beating after each addition. Combine both mixtures alternating with the buttermilk.

Beat the egg whites until stiff. Fold in the egg whites into the batter without beating. Finally, add the chocolate chips.

Line 12-14 muffin cups with paper cups. Fill up the cups 1/2 way.

Bake at 350 for 15-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from the muffin pan and cool on the wire racks.

Once the muffins are completely cooled. frost with cream cheese frosting. You can garnish with miniature chocolate chips.

Makes 12-14 cupcakes



Thursday, August 22, 2013

Craisins Scones

I love these scones. I like to add some grated orange zest to the dough.

Thanks to Michelle Stayner for sharing the recipe.




Combine:

2 cups flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt.

Cut in:

1/2 cup shortening.

Add:

1/2 cup Craisins
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/4 cup milk

Mix until moistened. Divide into 2 balls and flatten and cut into triangles. Sprinkle with extra granulated sugar.


Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 400 F for 15 minutes.




Snickerdoodle Muffins

Recipe given to me by Angela Vest. She got it from her friend Ashlyn Weaver.
These muffins are heavenly.



1 3/4 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/3 cup oil
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 cup milk

1/2 cup melted butter
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon or to taste

In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt and nutmeg.

In a separate bowl, combine oil, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 egg and milk. Combine these two bowls and gently stir until just moist.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease muffin pan. Pour batter in pan 2/3 way full. Bake 17-20 minutes.

Combine 3/4 cup sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. After muffins have baked, roll each in melted butter. Then, roll in the cinnamon and sugar mixture.



Sunday, August 18, 2013

Pasta e Fagioli

Cooking Light, Italian

www.cookinglight.com



1 tablespoon olive oil
6 oz hot turkey Italian sausage
1 1/2 tablespoons bottled minced garlic
1 cup water
1 (14-ounce) can fat-free less-sodium chicken broth
1 (8 oz) can no salt-added tomato sauce
1 cup uncooked small seashell pasta, (about 4 ounces)
1/2 cup (2 ounces)shredded Romano cheese, divided
1 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
2 (15.5-ounce) cans cannellini beans or other white beans, drained
Minced fresh parsley, optional

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat. Add sausage and garlic; saute 2 minutes or until browned, stirring to crumble. Add water, broth and tomato sauce; bring to a boil. Stir in pasta, 1/4 cup cheese, oregano, salt, white pepper and beans; bring to a boil.  Cover; reduce heat and simmer 8 minutes or until pasta is done. Let stand 5 minutes; sprinkle each serving with cheese.

Garnish with parsley, if desired.

Yield: 6 servings. Serving size: 1 cup soup and 1 tablespoons cheese.

Note: I added 1 extra cup chicken broth for a thinner consistency and I drained and rinsed the beans.



Banana Pancakes

Five ingredient Recipes

www.tasteofhome.com



2 cups Bisquick
1 egg
1 cup milk
1 cup mashed banana (the bananas have to be very ripe)
3/4 cup peanut butter chips or swirled chocolate chips

Mix the wet ingredients and add the Bisquick and peanut butter chips. Cook on a hot griddle using 1/4 cupfuls of batter. Serve with Maple syrup.

Note: I skipped the peanut butter chips and I added 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon before cooking the pancakes.


12-14 pancakes



Saturday, August 17, 2013

Seared Halibut with Fresh Tomato Basil Sauce

www.lisasdinnertimedish.com

I found this recipe on the website above. Really good recipe. My family likes it saucier so I added some more liquid and used tilapia instead of halibut. I served it over quinoa.



4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
3 large roma tomatoes or 4 medium size, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons basil, chopped
4 (6 oz) pieces halibut
Hot cooked spaghetti

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic; saute for about 1 minute. Add tomatoes; saute for about 3-5 minutes until tomatoes start to break down.

Stir in wine, add salt and pepper and increase heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, until tomatoes have broken down enough to form a sauce. Stir occasionally. Stir in basil.

Once sauce is ready, heat remaining olive oil in a separate large non-stick skillet over medium high heat. You want the pan to get very hot.

Season both sides of the fish with a little salt and pepper. Add fish to hot oil. Sear on both sides for about 2 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, add sauce to fish.

Simmer fish in the sauce for about 5 minutes until fish is cooked through.

Serve over hot cooked spaghetti if desired.

Makes 4 servings


Note: I added 1/2 cup water to the sauce before simmering for 30 minutes.

My optional ingredients: chopped green onions.



Friday, August 16, 2013

Apple Peach and Banana Smoothie



2 cups cold fat-free milk
1 Granny Smith apple, unpeeled, chopped and frozen
1 big ripe peach, unpeeled, cored, chopped and frozen
1 big very ripe banana, chopped and frozen
1/2 cup ice cubes
1/4 cup lemon juice
Honey to taste

Optional:

1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
2 tablespoons wheat germ, wheat bran, oat bran or ground flax seed

Pour the milk in the blender. Add the honey and blend well. Stir in the frozen fruit and lemon juice and press the "crush ice" setting until the mixture is very smooth. Add the ice and press the "crush ice" bottom again.

If adding some of the optional ingredients, just add them and blend or liquefy. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings



Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Strawberry Pie

www.allrecipes.com

Special thanks to Joyce Anderson who made this pie and shared the recipe with me.




1 (9-inch) pastry shell, unbaked
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup water
1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin
4 cups sliced fresh strawberries

Line unpricked pastry shell with a double-thickness of heavy -duty foil. Bake at 450 F for 8 minutes. Remove foil, Bake 5 minutes longer. Cool on a wire rack.

In a saucepan combine the sugar, cornstarch and water until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat. Stir in gelatin until dissolved. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes or until slightly cooled.

Meanwhile, arrange strawberries in the crust. Pour gelatin mixture over berries. Refrigerate until set.


Makes 6-8 servings



Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Dutch Baby with Lemon blueberry Sauce



Dutch Baby:

1/2 cup milk at room temperature
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 lemon, grated (juice reserved)
2 tablespoons butter
2 eggs, beaten

Place the butter in a 9-inch pie plate and melt in the microwave for a few seconds. Using a brush or tilting the pie pan, cover the sides of the pan as well.

Mix the milk and the flour and salt until no lumps remain. Add the eggs and grated lemon zest and mix.

Pour the mixture in the pie plate. Bake in a preheated 400 F oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with powder sugar (use a small strainer).


Blueberry-Lemon Sauce:

1/4 cup water
1/2 cup frozen or fresh blueberries
Lemon juice of half a fresh lemon
1/4 cup extra fresh of frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Sugar to taste

In a saucepan, mix the water with 1/2 cup blueberries and lemon juice. Cook for 2-4 minutes. Add sugar to taste and mix. Dissolve the cornstarch in the water and add to the mixture stirring constantly until it thickens.

Finally, add the extra 1/4 cup blueberries and cook for 1 more minute, DO NOT MASH.

Makes 3/4 cup sauce



Monday, August 5, 2013

Blueberry-Banana Bliss



2 cups cold milk
2 medium bananas, very ripe, cut in chunks and frozen
1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries
1/3 cup lemon juice
Honey to taste

Pour the milk in the blender, add some honey and blend well.

Stir in the lemon juice and the  frozen fruit little by little pressing the "crush ice" or "frappe" option. When the mixture is smooth and icy, serve immediately.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

Cilantro Ranch Dressing

I had this salad dressing at a church activity. It was so good that I had to ask for the recipe.



1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing (not buttermilk)
1 cup Mayonnaise
1 cup buttermilk
3 tomatillos (remove husk)
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro
Garlic to taste
 Juice of 1 large lime
1 jalapeno (leave seeds if you like it spicy)

Place everything in the blender or food processor and process until the mixture is smooth.

Note: It makes a lot of dressing



Thursday, July 25, 2013

Chicken and Veggie Pizza

Bisquick

www.bettycrocker.com




2 cups Original Bisquick Mix
1/3 cup very hot water
3/4 cup spinach dip
1 cup chopped cooked chicken
1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped (3/4 cup)
1 package (8 oz) sliced fresh mushrooms
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 oz)

Move oven rack to lowest position. Heat oven to 450 F. Spray a 12-inch pizza pan with cooking spray.

In medium bowl, stir Bisquick Mix, very hot water and 1/4 cup of the spinach dip with fork until soft dough forms. Beat vigorously 20 strokes. Press dough in pizza pan, using fingers dipped in Bisquick Mix; pinch edge to form 1/2-inch rim. Bake 7 minutes.

Spread remaining 1/2 cup spinach dip over partially baked crust. Sprinkle with chicken, tomato and mushrooms. Sprinkle with cheese.

Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until crust is brown and cheese is melted.

Note: I sauteed the mushrooms in hot skillet with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil for about 3-4 minutes.

I also think that the oven temperature was too high considering that the oven rack was moved to the lowest position so the crust baked completely and it was brown at the bottom. If I baked it for 12-15 minutes, the pizza would have burned but every oven is different. I did baked it for 7 minutes as the recipe said and then, added the remaining ingredients on top and baked it at 325 F until the cheese was melted. No need to bake longer since the crust was completely cooked.