I watch alot of Korean Dramas. Besides the few must see American shows I love K-Dramas are my favorite TV to watch. Now usually in one of these shows the couple inevitably goes to a restaurant. I cannot possibly name each of the delicious dishes I've seen but every once in awhile one pops up that Just looks so irresistably good that I have to track down a recipe. As far as I know this is pretty authentic to what you'd actually eat in Korea. If I'm missing something please comment or if you just enjoy it. I like hearing responses.
Spicy Braised Chicken
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Two pounds of chicken thighs or wings into bite sized pieces
1/4 c soy sauce
1/4 c Minced garlic
1/4 c Hot pepper paste
1/4 c hot pepper flakes
1Tbsp Sugar
2 c Chopped Onions
2 c Water
3 Large Potatos Chopped into about 2inch chunks
2 green chilis chopped
2 green onions chopped (garnish)
Start by washing the chicken. Drain and set aside. Mix together soy sauce,garlic,hot pepper flakes,hot pepper paste and sugar. Put the chicken and onions in a large pot. Mix 1 cup of water into your paste and dump over chicken and onion mixture. Toss to coat. You'll still have some paste in the bowl so go ahead and add one more cup, mix and empty over whats already in the pot. Toss again to make sure everythings covered nicely. Turn on the stove top to medium high and boil the mixture for 20 minutes. Now cut your potatos if you havent already. Put them into your pot along with the green chilis,stir And replace lid. Cook for an additional 20 minutes. Remove lid and cook about 5 minutes to thicken sauce some. Occasionally taking sauce from the bottom of the pot and pouring over the contents on top. Lastly transfer to large serving plate or dish and sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. Of course what's a proper Korean meal without a side of rice and if you enjoy it some Kimchi!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Melted Snowman cookies
I can across a recipe for melted snowman cookies while surfing the internet. Theres was incredibly complicated and used ingredients Id personally probably never buy. I saw on another site that they had modified it some and made it simpler but to me it still took longer then I care to take baking cookies. So I searched some more and found an even simpler method which I then took and deconstructed to fit my needs and below is the recipe Ive come up with. I hope you enjoy and please leave a comment if you try them.
Melted Snowman Cookies
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Items needed
Marshmallows
Icing
Food coloring or colored icing pens
Sugar Cookies
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 375F degrees. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Take a nice chunk of dough and form it into a puddle shape (sloppy circle).
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
While the cookies are baking prepare your favorite icing recipe. After removing the cookies from the oven ice them with the white frosting. It will drip over the edges and look sloppy but thats the look you want. Let them cool completely before finishing decorating.Once they are cooled. Depending on how many cookies you have place marshmallows on the a microwave safe plate and microwave 10-20 seconds. You want the marshmallows to flatten slightly in their centers. With pam sprayed fingers quickly transfer the melted marshmallows onto the cookie. As they cool they should stick to the cookie.
Lastly comes the decorating. You can choose to color the remainder of the frosting you made earlier with food dye or buy those nifty little frosting pens. Make some eyes,carrot nose and a smile on the marshmallow head and draw a simple tie on the cookie body and thats it your done. You can embelish them more if you like or make them even simpler if you choose. You could also use pre made sugar cookie dough and just complete the rest of the steps as described.
These will be cute for the Holidays or just as a winter treat. I hope you enjoy them as I do!
Melted Snowman Cookies
-----------------------
Items needed
Marshmallows
Icing
Food coloring or colored icing pens
Sugar Cookies
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 375F degrees. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Take a nice chunk of dough and form it into a puddle shape (sloppy circle).
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
While the cookies are baking prepare your favorite icing recipe. After removing the cookies from the oven ice them with the white frosting. It will drip over the edges and look sloppy but thats the look you want. Let them cool completely before finishing decorating.Once they are cooled. Depending on how many cookies you have place marshmallows on the a microwave safe plate and microwave 10-20 seconds. You want the marshmallows to flatten slightly in their centers. With pam sprayed fingers quickly transfer the melted marshmallows onto the cookie. As they cool they should stick to the cookie.
Lastly comes the decorating. You can choose to color the remainder of the frosting you made earlier with food dye or buy those nifty little frosting pens. Make some eyes,carrot nose and a smile on the marshmallow head and draw a simple tie on the cookie body and thats it your done. You can embelish them more if you like or make them even simpler if you choose. You could also use pre made sugar cookie dough and just complete the rest of the steps as described.
These will be cute for the Holidays or just as a winter treat. I hope you enjoy them as I do!
Monday, December 19, 2011
Stained glass Cookies
I Remember first making these cookies many,many years ago when I was in girl scouts. As the years flew by I made them less and less as my holiday cooking expand with the size of our family. One year I remember candy canes were the big thing. Every single tree I saw had them hanging on them which is when I remembered my long neglected stained glass cookie recipe. I made the cookies in various shapes wrapped them with colored cellophane and hung them with a little ribbon on my tree. When the evening was done all the guests were free to choose on to take with them. Needless to say they were a big hit. Im thinking of making them this year but am still procrastinating if Im going to buy a tree yet or not. If I do Ill be sure to add a photo.
Stained Glass Cookies
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon molasses
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
2 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
30-40 hard candies (generic lollipops, dum dums,life savers,jolly ranchers all work)
Pre Heat oven to 375 F In a large bowl cream together sugar and butter until fluffy. Add molasses and vanilla extract until incorporated well. Add egg and mix well. Lastly add all the dry ingredients. Once incorporated wrap the dough into two flat discs and refregirate about 30 minutes before rolling out. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a large cookie cutter of whatever preference you choose and then use a smaller of the same shape on the inside of the cookie. This is where your crushed candies will go. If your wanting to hang them make a hole at the top of your shape large enough to slip a small ribbon through. With all the remaining cut out sections of dough just reincorporate and continue the same process until your left with cookie sheets full of shapes. Oh and important put down a silpat or parchment paper so you dont ruin cookie sheets with melting candies. Divide the candies up by color,transfer into a ziploc bag and crush em with a rolling pin,can or your fist til they are in small pieces.
Fill each cookie with a spoonful of candy enough where it will melt nicely into the cookie but not overflow it. Bake 9-10 minutes. Cookies should be a light brown and the candies should have melted nicely to fill the shape. Once cooled string the hole with ribbon and then wrap with a small square of cellophane and either add another ribbon or use a twist tie to secure. Thats it your done!
Stained Glass Cookies
-----------------------
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon molasses
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
2 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
30-40 hard candies (generic lollipops, dum dums,life savers,jolly ranchers all work)
Pre Heat oven to 375 F In a large bowl cream together sugar and butter until fluffy. Add molasses and vanilla extract until incorporated well. Add egg and mix well. Lastly add all the dry ingredients. Once incorporated wrap the dough into two flat discs and refregirate about 30 minutes before rolling out. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a large cookie cutter of whatever preference you choose and then use a smaller of the same shape on the inside of the cookie. This is where your crushed candies will go. If your wanting to hang them make a hole at the top of your shape large enough to slip a small ribbon through. With all the remaining cut out sections of dough just reincorporate and continue the same process until your left with cookie sheets full of shapes. Oh and important put down a silpat or parchment paper so you dont ruin cookie sheets with melting candies. Divide the candies up by color,transfer into a ziploc bag and crush em with a rolling pin,can or your fist til they are in small pieces.
Fill each cookie with a spoonful of candy enough where it will melt nicely into the cookie but not overflow it. Bake 9-10 minutes. Cookies should be a light brown and the candies should have melted nicely to fill the shape. Once cooled string the hole with ribbon and then wrap with a small square of cellophane and either add another ribbon or use a twist tie to secure. Thats it your done!
Christmas Honey Balls.
This recipe Was recommended to me by a Friend Carrisa and all credit goes to her. I havent made these yet but recipe sounded so good I just had to copy it down. I hope you enjoy and try them out. Let me know in the comments below if you do!
Christmas Honey Balls
_______________________
Christmas Honey Balls
2 lbs flour (6 2/3 Cups)
4 Eggs
1/2 Cup Sugar
3 Tablespoons Baking Powder
1/2 Cup Shortening
1 Tablespoon Anasetta Extract (Anise)
1 Cup Warm Milk
1 Pinch of Salt.
Cut Shortening into flour, Add Salt, Baking Powder, and Sugar
Add Eggs. Then add Warm milk a little as a time (as needed-you can add more if you need to)
Knead Dough and let stand for 1/2 hour.
Then cut pieces and roll into ropes. Cut into small pieces and fry in a deep pot or fryer if you have one.
After the oil cools, discard. Melt Honey til liquid and put the balls into it til coated,(do a small amount at a time) then transfer to your bowl and sprinkle with multi colored Sprinkles,shredded coconut,oreo crumbles or anything else youd like that will adhere well.
Christmas Honey Balls
_______________________
Christmas Honey Balls
2 lbs flour (6 2/3 Cups)
4 Eggs
1/2 Cup Sugar
3 Tablespoons Baking Powder
1/2 Cup Shortening
1 Tablespoon Anasetta Extract (Anise)
1 Cup Warm Milk
1 Pinch of Salt.
Cut Shortening into flour, Add Salt, Baking Powder, and Sugar
Add Eggs. Then add Warm milk a little as a time (as needed-you can add more if you need to)
Knead Dough and let stand for 1/2 hour.
Then cut pieces and roll into ropes. Cut into small pieces and fry in a deep pot or fryer if you have one.
After the oil cools, discard. Melt Honey til liquid and put the balls into it til coated,(do a small amount at a time) then transfer to your bowl and sprinkle with multi colored Sprinkles,shredded coconut,oreo crumbles or anything else youd like that will adhere well.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Chewy Easy Oatmeal Raisin cookies.
This is a recipe I came across on the internet with a few modifications.My daughter and I were in the mood for oatmeal cookies and it was just one of those perfect fall days where the idea sounded really good. This was a really good recipe, the cookies came out chewy but not to the point it felt like you were left chewing forever. I added a touch more cinammon then the recipe called for and since I was out of baking soda I threw in baking powder hoping my daughter didnt notice mommys blunder (she didnt). All in all the core recipe was a keeper.
Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups oatmeal
3/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate optional
Preheat oven to 350F. Mix wet ingredients together until butter is creamed. In another bowl mix dry ingredients except oats and raisins. Once dry goods are mixed together pour into the wet bowl. Combine well and then add oatmeal and raisins. Once mixed I set in the fridge while waiting on the oven to finish but you could put straight on cookie sheets. Bake 10-12 minutes and then let cool a few before transfering to racks. Thats it your done.
Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups oatmeal
3/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate optional
Preheat oven to 350F. Mix wet ingredients together until butter is creamed. In another bowl mix dry ingredients except oats and raisins. Once dry goods are mixed together pour into the wet bowl. Combine well and then add oatmeal and raisins. Once mixed I set in the fridge while waiting on the oven to finish but you could put straight on cookie sheets. Bake 10-12 minutes and then let cool a few before transfering to racks. Thats it your done.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Mini Caramel Apples
I dont know about you but I love this time of year. Cool crisp air, Beautiful color changes in the leaves and best of all Apples and plenty of them. The other day while talking to my cousin she mentioned something apple caramel apples and how she makes mini ones for her kids. I thought wow what a great idea she really might be on to something. Now she mentioned just making very basic caramel apples but I thought due to the size you could easily coat them in a wide variety of toppings. So without further ado here is my version of mini caramel apples.
Mini Caramel Apples
_________________________
2-3 large apples
Either the caramel sheets cut down,magic shell caramel or you can make your own to dip in
You'll also need lollipop sticks, a melon baller and any topping you can think of or just eat them plain they are great either way!
First wash your apples and pat them dry. Scoop out as many balls with your melon baller insert a stick into the skin side and put them on a tray lined with wax paper. Sprinkle a little lemon juice on top to prevent browning. Once completed balling out all the apples pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes til they harden a bit. Prepare your caramel and any toppings you need. Remover from freezer and pat the apple with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and dip into caramel and then toppings and place into little candy wax papers or just put them back on your wax lined tray. Repeat until done. You can also dip them in chocolate or peanut butter the choice really is up to you. Oh and what do do with the remaining apple. Pop it in a juicer for some nummy apple juice or make some homemade potpourri by boiling it onthe stove top with some cinnamon and cloves. Just leave simmering on low for a days worth of autumny goodness scents.
Mini Caramel Apples
_________________________
2-3 large apples
Either the caramel sheets cut down,magic shell caramel or you can make your own to dip in
You'll also need lollipop sticks, a melon baller and any topping you can think of or just eat them plain they are great either way!
First wash your apples and pat them dry. Scoop out as many balls with your melon baller insert a stick into the skin side and put them on a tray lined with wax paper. Sprinkle a little lemon juice on top to prevent browning. Once completed balling out all the apples pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes til they harden a bit. Prepare your caramel and any toppings you need. Remover from freezer and pat the apple with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and dip into caramel and then toppings and place into little candy wax papers or just put them back on your wax lined tray. Repeat until done. You can also dip them in chocolate or peanut butter the choice really is up to you. Oh and what do do with the remaining apple. Pop it in a juicer for some nummy apple juice or make some homemade potpourri by boiling it onthe stove top with some cinnamon and cloves. Just leave simmering on low for a days worth of autumny goodness scents.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Quick and simple breakfast
This recipe was inspire from something I saw on a walmart recipe card. I omitted the prepackaged stuff for fresher choices and added a few things to it but I personally think it made it better. The best part about this is it is completely customizable and healthy. I hope you enjoy.
Quick and Simple breakfast
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1english muffin split in half
1/2 an apple thin sliced
3 slices of a sweet onion (amount you would top burger with)
2 tbsp Cream cheese
2 slices gouda
Small amount of butter for pan
Heat pan up and allow butter to melt. Add in onions and apples and cook til soft. Once soft remove from heat and set aside. Toast english muffin and spreadcream cheese of your choice on either side. Top each side with gouda and some of the hot apple and onion mixture. You can eat as is or take the sides and pop them in the oven A few so the cheese melts into a gooey consistency and the cream cheese warms up a bit. Thats entirely up to you though. Tnats it your done :)
Quick and Simple breakfast
___________________________
1english muffin split in half
1/2 an apple thin sliced
3 slices of a sweet onion (amount you would top burger with)
2 tbsp Cream cheese
2 slices gouda
Small amount of butter for pan
Heat pan up and allow butter to melt. Add in onions and apples and cook til soft. Once soft remove from heat and set aside. Toast english muffin and spreadcream cheese of your choice on either side. Top each side with gouda and some of the hot apple and onion mixture. You can eat as is or take the sides and pop them in the oven A few so the cheese melts into a gooey consistency and the cream cheese warms up a bit. Thats entirely up to you though. Tnats it your done :)
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Chocolate Frosting
Making chocolate frosting has always been an issue for me. It seems nomatter how hard I try it never came out as good as the store bought kind. That it until today. I was making brownies and my daughter asked if I could frost them. I was hesitant to make from scratch but decided to randomly choose a recipe from my collection and go for it. The recipe turned out awesome and the consistency was exactly like what you'd get from a store. The only thing I did different from the recipe was instead of using just softened butter I used warm almost to the point of melted butter.
Chocolate Frosting
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3 Tbsp Soft/Warmed Butter
3 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
1 Tbsp Honey
1 Tsp Vanilla
1 Cup Powdered Sugar
Start by warming up the butter but not letting it melt. Add it into a bowl with the cocoa powder, honey and vanilla. Then add in the powdered sugar and stir until incorporated and the frosting is smooth without lumps. Frosts an 8 inch pan worth of Cake or Brownies.
Chocolate Frosting
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3 Tbsp Soft/Warmed Butter
3 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
1 Tbsp Honey
1 Tsp Vanilla
1 Cup Powdered Sugar
Start by warming up the butter but not letting it melt. Add it into a bowl with the cocoa powder, honey and vanilla. Then add in the powdered sugar and stir until incorporated and the frosting is smooth without lumps. Frosts an 8 inch pan worth of Cake or Brownies.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Been Awhile
I know it's been awhile since I've posted anything New. I have a few recipes I should be uploading in the near feature just have been busy in real life and haven't gotten a chance to sit down and do some much needed recipe blogging. Thank Your for Your understanding.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Bess Eaton is Back
If your curious or want to know more you can read about Bess Eaton here and if you live in RI or Southern Connecticut stop by for a cup. You won't be sorry I promise.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Egg Replacements
I found myself out of eggs and in need of a substitution for one. So of course I went to my trusty source the internet looking for something that would work. I knew of a few my mother always used and could have easily substituted with one of those but found myself finding more and more until I had a nice little list of viable options for substituting an egg in a recipe. It should be noted that you shouldn't replace more then 2 eggs in a recipe. I'm not sure why but it seem the general consensus from everything I've read about egg replacement.
1 tsp baking powder + 1 1/2 TBS water + 1 1/2 Tbsp oil
1 tsp baking powder + 1 Tbsp water + 1 Tbsp vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp water or milk + 2 Tbsp flour + 1/2 Tbsp shortening + 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 Tbsp vinegar + 1 tsp baking soda
2 Tbsp lemon juice + 1 tsp baking soda
1 Tbsp cornstarch + 3 Tbsp water for each missing egg
2 Tbsp arrowroot flour
2 Tbsp potato starch
1 Tbsp tapioca starch + 1/4 cup warm water (mix well & allow to solidify a bit before using)
1 tsp yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water
1/2 of a medium mashed banana + 1/4 tsp baking powder
2 Tbsp applesauce
3 Tbsp mayonnaise
I hope this helps the next time you find yourself missing an egg.
1 tsp baking powder + 1 1/2 TBS water + 1 1/2 Tbsp oil
1 tsp baking powder + 1 Tbsp water + 1 Tbsp vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp water or milk + 2 Tbsp flour + 1/2 Tbsp shortening + 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 Tbsp vinegar + 1 tsp baking soda
2 Tbsp lemon juice + 1 tsp baking soda
1 Tbsp cornstarch + 3 Tbsp water for each missing egg
2 Tbsp arrowroot flour
2 Tbsp potato starch
1 Tbsp tapioca starch + 1/4 cup warm water (mix well & allow to solidify a bit before using)
1 tsp yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water
1/2 of a medium mashed banana + 1/4 tsp baking powder
2 Tbsp applesauce
3 Tbsp mayonnaise
I hope this helps the next time you find yourself missing an egg.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Leftover Creations
Sometimes I don't know what to make for dinner. I know it's a shock but even I get in a rut where I can't think of something to make. Last night was one of those times with the kids having already been fed I only had to make something for the hubby and I. I spent the better half on an hour trying to decide what I could make when I came across some leftover boneless pork spareribs in the freezer that only had 4 in the freezer bag. I took them out and began working on what to do with them. I could of bbq'ed them but was looking for something else since I just didn't have the time to properly bbq the meat to my standards. All I knew was it was 6 pm and I was hungry. After rummaging through the pantry I came up with something to make finally and I'm glad I did. The recipe was super simple and the taste was great. It took 30 minutes total from prep to the table. Not bad all in all for a thrown together leftover creation.
Pork Spareribs in Mushroom sauce
==================================
4 Boneless Pork Spareribs
1 can cream of mushroom soup
3 slices mozarella cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 mushroom sliced thinly of your choice
salt and pepper to taste
*I served over white rice but if you prefer something else by all means make that.
Start by parboiling the spareribs. I cooked them 10 minutes at a rolling boil while my oven pre-heated @ 350F degrees. Once done boiling remove carefully from pan and slice into chunks. *I rinsed the pan and started rice which takes 20 minutes to cook.
Put meat into a small pan and top with cream of mushroom soup,milk and mushrooms. Stir together until everything is coated and cover the pan with tin foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and top with Mozarella slices and pop back into oven while plating rice. The cheese should melt in just a minute or two. Serve mixture over rice and that it's your done. A simple easy dinner from freezer to table in 30 minutes.
Pork Spareribs in Mushroom sauce
==================================
4 Boneless Pork Spareribs
1 can cream of mushroom soup
3 slices mozarella cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 mushroom sliced thinly of your choice
salt and pepper to taste
*I served over white rice but if you prefer something else by all means make that.
Start by parboiling the spareribs. I cooked them 10 minutes at a rolling boil while my oven pre-heated @ 350F degrees. Once done boiling remove carefully from pan and slice into chunks. *I rinsed the pan and started rice which takes 20 minutes to cook.
Put meat into a small pan and top with cream of mushroom soup,milk and mushrooms. Stir together until everything is coated and cover the pan with tin foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and top with Mozarella slices and pop back into oven while plating rice. The cheese should melt in just a minute or two. Serve mixture over rice and that it's your done. A simple easy dinner from freezer to table in 30 minutes.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Chocolate Coconut Cream Pie
While surfing around online I found a fabulous recipe for Chocolate Pie from Chef Jason Hill. His mimics a Chocolate pie sold on the Island of Oahu, Hawaii but is of course made at home. I thought the recipe was super simple and fabulous because it combines two of my favorite things Coconut and Chocolate! I have always had pie crust issues no matter how hard I try it's never as good as moms. So I used pre-made pie crusts. Feel free to make one if you want. Oh and did I mention this is a no oven bake pie. The original recipe has been tweaked slightly to suit my tastes.
Chocolate Coconut Cream Pie
============================
1/2 cup Cornstarch
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1 cup sugar
14 oz Coconut Milk
7 oz Semi-Sweet baking Chocolate
1 1/2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
1/4 Cup Sugar
1 Pre-Baked Flaky Pie Crust 10-inch
1 Cup Toasted Coconut *optional
In a measuring cup, mix 1/2 cup cornstarch into 1 cup of water and let it dissolve. This is your cornstarch slurry, which will thicken the coconut milk.
Over medium heat, bring 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup of sugar and 14 ounces of coconut milk to a boil. Reduce the heat on the milk to a simmer and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Now, stir continuously until it thickens up.
In a saucepan, melt 7 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate over low heat. I prefer doing this using a double boiler method rather then just melting in the pan itself. Remove from heat and stir in half of the coconut mixture.
Top baked crust with the chocolate pie filling, then top with the reserved coconut custard. Refrigerate this for one hour.
Now it's time to make the whipped topping. Beat together 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream, with 1/4 cup sugar. Whisk until stiff peaks form.
Now, just layer the whipped cream on the chocolate pie, top it with fresh shaved chocolate shavings, toasted coconut that's it and your done!
Chocolate Coconut Cream Pie
============================
1/2 cup Cornstarch
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1 cup sugar
14 oz Coconut Milk
7 oz Semi-Sweet baking Chocolate
1 1/2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
1/4 Cup Sugar
1 Pre-Baked Flaky Pie Crust 10-inch
1 Cup Toasted Coconut *optional
In a measuring cup, mix 1/2 cup cornstarch into 1 cup of water and let it dissolve. This is your cornstarch slurry, which will thicken the coconut milk.
Over medium heat, bring 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup of sugar and 14 ounces of coconut milk to a boil. Reduce the heat on the milk to a simmer and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Now, stir continuously until it thickens up.
In a saucepan, melt 7 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate over low heat. I prefer doing this using a double boiler method rather then just melting in the pan itself. Remove from heat and stir in half of the coconut mixture.
Top baked crust with the chocolate pie filling, then top with the reserved coconut custard. Refrigerate this for one hour.
Now it's time to make the whipped topping. Beat together 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream, with 1/4 cup sugar. Whisk until stiff peaks form.
Now, just layer the whipped cream on the chocolate pie, top it with fresh shaved chocolate shavings, toasted coconut that's it and your done!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Rainbow Dash Ice Cream
My Daughter Loves My little Ponys. In one of her books it had a recipe for something called Rainbow Dash Ice Cream which of course meant mom is destined to make it . I thought it was to simple and cute not to share. I plan on having some fun with this and making it more rainbow colored as the name suggest but my experimentation will have to wait since I have a freezer full of ice cream that I stocked up on when Braums had a sale. Makes a 9x5 loaf pan full of ice cream.
Rainbow Dash Ice Cream
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1 can sweetened condensed milk
2/3 cup chocolate syrup
2 cups heavy cream
rainbow colored sprinkles
Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with aluminum foil. In a large bowl, stir together sweetened condensed milk and chocolate syrup until combined and color is even. In a separate bowl,whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold cream into chocolate mixture and pour into prepared pan. Cover and Freeze 6 hours until firm. Serve with sprinkles. That's it and your done.
Rainbow Dash Ice Cream
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1 can sweetened condensed milk
2/3 cup chocolate syrup
2 cups heavy cream
rainbow colored sprinkles
Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with aluminum foil. In a large bowl, stir together sweetened condensed milk and chocolate syrup until combined and color is even. In a separate bowl,whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold cream into chocolate mixture and pour into prepared pan. Cover and Freeze 6 hours until firm. Serve with sprinkles. That's it and your done.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Pashka
This is my Father's Recipe. I finally got my mother to send me a copy of the recipe after failing many of times to find a copy online that was close to what I remember as being the Pashka my father makes. This is traditionally made at Easter in my parents household and I thought this year I'd try it for myself. So here in it's unedited glory is my Father's Pashka recipe.
4 pks (8 ounces) cream cheese
1/2cup(1 stick) butter
2 cups sifted confectioners sugar ---NOT regular
3 egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 cup chopped fruit----we use a small jar maraschinio cherries chopped and drained and a small amount of dried pineapple chopped up (snack pk. amt.)
grated lemon rind---we use 2 tablespoons lemon juice..or you can use some dried lemon powder
1 small bag (or more if you like) slivered almonds
Allow cheese and butter to stand at room temp. for 2 hours . Place cheese in lg. bowl and beat.Add softened butter and continue beating til thoroughly combined. Add the sugar gradually.When mixed in well, add egg yolks one at a time,beating them in well. Fold in vanilla,fruits,lemon rind and nuts.
Line colander with cheesecloth wrung out in COLD water, leaving generous fringe. Spoon mix into colander cover over tightly with cheesecloth...place in pan to catch moisture and place weight on the top of the cheesecloth covered mixture.....the weight will press the moisture from the cheese mixture.
Refrigerate overnight. To un-mold-pull cheesecloth very gently all around to loosen.Invert quickly.Pull off cheesecloth.
That's it and your done. I hope you enjoy this dessert as much as I do.
4 pks (8 ounces) cream cheese
1/2cup(1 stick) butter
2 cups sifted confectioners sugar ---NOT regular
3 egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 cup chopped fruit----we use a small jar maraschinio cherries chopped and drained and a small amount of dried pineapple chopped up (snack pk. amt.)
grated lemon rind---we use 2 tablespoons lemon juice..or you can use some dried lemon powder
1 small bag (or more if you like) slivered almonds
Allow cheese and butter to stand at room temp. for 2 hours . Place cheese in lg. bowl and beat.Add softened butter and continue beating til thoroughly combined. Add the sugar gradually.When mixed in well, add egg yolks one at a time,beating them in well. Fold in vanilla,fruits,lemon rind and nuts.
Line colander with cheesecloth wrung out in COLD water, leaving generous fringe. Spoon mix into colander cover over tightly with cheesecloth...place in pan to catch moisture and place weight on the top of the cheesecloth covered mixture.....the weight will press the moisture from the cheese mixture.
Refrigerate overnight. To un-mold-pull cheesecloth very gently all around to loosen.Invert quickly.Pull off cheesecloth.
That's it and your done. I hope you enjoy this dessert as much as I do.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Banana coconut Pancakes Oh yeah!
I love the taste of Banana and Coconut together so it only seems logical that I'd experiment with those flavors in a variety of ways. One day while making banana pancakes I noticed a small can of Coconut milk in my fridge door needing to be used up and so normal milk went back in the fridge and out came the coconut milk. The flavor was fantastic and certainly well worth the small price of the can since it doesn't use it all and can keep in the fridge a few days. My husband isn't as big a coconut fan as I am and he even liked them. The coconut wasn't overly powerful but you definitely noticed it in every bite as a subtle background flavor to the bananas. Next time I might even add in some shredded coconut to kick it up a notch or do something completely crazy like adding in some crushed pineapple and making a tropical pancake. Now that I think about it that does sound good.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Spaghetti and Meatballs......... on a bun?
This is something I came up with one day after watching a show about Texas state fair foods. They were of course eating the meatball deep fried but it got me thinking how good a meatball wrapped around spaghetti would be if you served it on a bun. This takes some time but it's a fun alternative to your basic meatball sub.
I started by making my Meatball recipe once done I put it in a saran wrap lined shallow pan and pressed it flat. Important reserve about 1/4 of the meat mixture for later. Cut your meatball mixture into squares about the size of a wonton. A pizza cutter works great to do this. Place in Freezer to firm up a little before forming into a ball.
While your meatball mixture is firming up boil a small amount of spaghetti and drain thoroughly once done. Toss spaghetti with some freshly grated parmesan. Your meat mixture should be firm enough by the time your spaghetti is done.
Remove from Freezer and lift up one of your squares of meat. Place a small amount of spaghetti in the center of your squares and then fold up the edges like a pouch. Take a small amount of the reserved mixture and press down over the top and then roll in hands much like you would while making a normal meatball. Place on baking sheet and repeat til all balls have been formed. Cook like you normally would and once done let sit soaking in the sauce that's warming while your getting your rolls ready. Place your balls in your sub, top with cheese if you want and a little extra sauce. That's it your done.
Note: You can also chop up the cooked spaghetti and add into your meatball mixture before forming if pressed for time. If you have the time biting into a meatball with a cheesy spaghetti center it's not only fun but it tastes oh so good.
I started by making my Meatball recipe once done I put it in a saran wrap lined shallow pan and pressed it flat. Important reserve about 1/4 of the meat mixture for later. Cut your meatball mixture into squares about the size of a wonton. A pizza cutter works great to do this. Place in Freezer to firm up a little before forming into a ball.
While your meatball mixture is firming up boil a small amount of spaghetti and drain thoroughly once done. Toss spaghetti with some freshly grated parmesan. Your meat mixture should be firm enough by the time your spaghetti is done.
Remove from Freezer and lift up one of your squares of meat. Place a small amount of spaghetti in the center of your squares and then fold up the edges like a pouch. Take a small amount of the reserved mixture and press down over the top and then roll in hands much like you would while making a normal meatball. Place on baking sheet and repeat til all balls have been formed. Cook like you normally would and once done let sit soaking in the sauce that's warming while your getting your rolls ready. Place your balls in your sub, top with cheese if you want and a little extra sauce. That's it your done.
Note: You can also chop up the cooked spaghetti and add into your meatball mixture before forming if pressed for time. If you have the time biting into a meatball with a cheesy spaghetti center it's not only fun but it tastes oh so good.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
It is Super Bowl Sunday you know what that means!
It's that time of the year again and so in honor of Superbowl Sunday I've decided to share my favorite drunken finger foods. Nothing really crazy is made for Superbowl. Simplicity is the key when organizing food for Football watching. You want something you can grab with one hand while holding your beverage of choice in the other. Nothing to messy that will stain the carpet if it flies out of your hand due to a bad call or during a celebratory touchdown from your favorite team. So whether your rooting for Packers *Go Pack GO!* or the Steelers *clap*......I hope you all stay safe, Enjoy the game and oh yeah please don't riot if your team loses it's so unclassy.
1.Mini Steak and cheese subs.
2.Boneless Buffalo wings dipped in ranch.
3.Cold Cut Platter
4.Chips and Dip
5.Burger Sliders
6.Hot dogs
7.Boneless riblets
8.Pretzels dipped in mustard
9.Mini sausages
10. Cheese tray
Which leads me to saying one last thing. Please, please don't drink and drive. If you feel you've had to many after the game. Call a cab or stay put if possible.
Go Pack GO!!!!
1.Mini Steak and cheese subs.
2.Boneless Buffalo wings dipped in ranch.
3.Cold Cut Platter
4.Chips and Dip
5.Burger Sliders
6.Hot dogs
7.Boneless riblets
8.Pretzels dipped in mustard
9.Mini sausages
10. Cheese tray
Which leads me to saying one last thing. Please, please don't drink and drive. If you feel you've had to many after the game. Call a cab or stay put if possible.
Go Pack GO!!!!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Rustic Bread
It's been awhile since I have made a good loaf of rustic bread. Today was just one of those days where I was running around doing a million things and didn't want to be bothered making a more complicated loaf. I blew off the cobwebs from my recipe and got to making it. I love how this bread comes out each and every time. In 3 hours time you have a gorgeous hunk of crusty rustic bread with minimal ease.
Rustic Bread
================
3 cups warm water
1 1/2 Tsps Fast Rising Yeast
2 1/2 Tsps Salt
6 1/2 Cups White Bread Flour
Pour warm water into a large mixing bowl. Add the yeast to the water and then the salt, mix well.
Add all the flour and mix thoroughly with a spoon or by hand until ingredients are mixed. Don't over knead. Leave the bread dough in the mixing bowl and cover loosely with plastic wrap or tea towel. Allow to rise for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Cut dough in half or tear and knead it for about 1 minute with floured hands and on floured work surface before placing it in a greased and floured loaf tin. Repeat with remaining dough. Allow to rise for another 20 to 30 minutes.
Bake at 450F degrees for 30 minutes or until well-risen and browned. A done loaf sounds hollow when it is tapped on the underside. Remove the bread and cool on a cooling rack. That's it your done. In 3 hours and with minimal work you have two lovely loaves of bread.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Meatballs
Tonight I decided to make my meatball patties but hubby was not in the mood at all so I decided why not make meatballs instead. I love a good meatball something about them brings me straight back to my youth forming patties side by side with my dad. The smell of the Italian herbs and spices wafting through the kitchen and the anticipation of that glorious burst of flavor once popped in your mouth. It's been awhile since I made up proper meatballs. I don't mean the quick ones I do when I'm half-assing preparing dinner mixing turkey and hamburger together for a no frills meatball. We've all had those type of days don't judge me lol. No I mean the good kind of meatball made with Pork, hamburger and Italian Sausage. The way my father and grandmother before him would make them.
Meatballs
---------------------
1 Pound Hamburger 80/20
1 Pound Italian Sausage
1/2 Pound Pork
1 egg
1 Tbsp Parsley
1 Cup Parmesan
1 Package chopped leaf Spinach drained
1 Tbsp Italian Seasonings
1 Tsp Salt and Pepper
Garlic to taste
1/2-1 Cup Breadcrumbs,Panko or Oatmeal
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. No using a spoon get in their with your hands and mash the mix together. Grab a small chunk of meat and roll into a ball whichever size you prefer. Once all balls are formed and placed on baking sheet pop into Pre-heated oven @350F for 20 minutes.
Once done in oven remove while warm and place in sauce warming on low while making pasta. Serve and Enjoy.
These taste great on Pasta on a sub or even toasted between two slices of bread.
Meatballs
---------------------
1 Pound Hamburger 80/20
1 Pound Italian Sausage
1/2 Pound Pork
1 egg
1 Tbsp Parsley
1 Cup Parmesan
1 Package chopped leaf Spinach drained
1 Tbsp Italian Seasonings
1 Tsp Salt and Pepper
Garlic to taste
1/2-1 Cup Breadcrumbs,Panko or Oatmeal
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. No using a spoon get in their with your hands and mash the mix together. Grab a small chunk of meat and roll into a ball whichever size you prefer. Once all balls are formed and placed on baking sheet pop into Pre-heated oven @350F for 20 minutes.
Once done in oven remove while warm and place in sauce warming on low while making pasta. Serve and Enjoy.
These taste great on Pasta on a sub or even toasted between two slices of bread.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Hot Cocoa Mix
This recipe is slightly adapted from Homestead-Acres recipe on Youtube. I have a daughter who loves her hot chocolate but buying pre-made powders all the time was costing me an arm and a leg. I came across this recipe a few weeks back when my daughter was bugging me for hot chocolate but I was out of everything to make some. This is perfect for those of you who love this tasty drink. You can make it with Milk or water it's entirely up to you.
Hot Cocoa Mix
===================
5 cups Powdered Milk
1 cup Powdered coffee creamer *Try the flavored varieties to spice up your mix*
3 cups Sugar
1 cup Cocoa Powder
1 Tbsp Cinnamon
1 Tbsp Chili Powder *can be omitted just a personal preference*
Note-If using unsweetened Cocoa Powder you may need to adjust sugar to taste
Mix Ingredients together in a bowl. Transfer to Plastic Container and store in Pantry. I use the cereal containers from wal-mart with the handle and pour spot to store my stuff in which works perfect.
To Serve Mix 3 Tablespoons in Hot Milk or Water and top with Marshmallows. That's It your done. I hope you enjoy.
Hot Cocoa Mix
===================
5 cups Powdered Milk
1 cup Powdered coffee creamer *Try the flavored varieties to spice up your mix*
3 cups Sugar
1 cup Cocoa Powder
1 Tbsp Cinnamon
1 Tbsp Chili Powder *can be omitted just a personal preference*
Note-If using unsweetened Cocoa Powder you may need to adjust sugar to taste
Mix Ingredients together in a bowl. Transfer to Plastic Container and store in Pantry. I use the cereal containers from wal-mart with the handle and pour spot to store my stuff in which works perfect.
To Serve Mix 3 Tablespoons in Hot Milk or Water and top with Marshmallows. That's It your done. I hope you enjoy.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Coffee, Coffee everywhere and not enough to drink
While sitting here sipping a cup of warm tea I thought why not share some of my favorite ways to make coffee. Coffee is so versatile served warm or hot both result in complete deliciousness. I've been drinking coffee a very long time and have tried many varieties over the years from gourmet to your run of a mill generic brand. While sometimes I have had a few misses I don't think I've ever had one that I'd completely write off from ever trying again. My favorite coffee is Kona. I became addicted when I lived in Hawaii but finding a decent Kona on the mainland isn't easy. Most Konas in the stores are shells of what the actual version is So I usually settle on just buying Folgers. Folgers is great found basically everywhere and can be drank hot or cold. So using Folgers as my base here are a few simple ways to mix up your coffee in the morning.
*Brew a Pot of coffee per instructions. Mix in a heaping spoonful of Sweetened condensed milk and stir til incorporated.
*After brewing let pot cool and transfer liquid to any sort of pitcher you like. Reserve some of the coffee and make ice cubes with them. Let the rest of the liquid cool even further in fridge for around an hour. Once Ice has set pop a few in a glass. Add Coffee to glass filling about 3/4 of the way. Add some coconut milk and a little liquid sugar to taste. Stir together and enjoy. You can also just use regular milk and make normal iced coffee this way to.
*Start off with a hot cup of coffee. Stir in A packet of hot chocolate mix and around a tbsp of milk. Stir til incorporated and top with whip cream dusted with cinnamon.
*Use my simple sugar mix in flavor of choice and add to either hot or cold coffee.
*Make up a cup of coffee as you normally would. Drop in two Andes Mints and stir until melted. Top with whip cream and a few pieces of broken candy cane or shaved andes mints and you have yourself the perfect peppermint treat.
I hope your inspired to try out more ways to drink Coffee.
*Brew a Pot of coffee per instructions. Mix in a heaping spoonful of Sweetened condensed milk and stir til incorporated.
*After brewing let pot cool and transfer liquid to any sort of pitcher you like. Reserve some of the coffee and make ice cubes with them. Let the rest of the liquid cool even further in fridge for around an hour. Once Ice has set pop a few in a glass. Add Coffee to glass filling about 3/4 of the way. Add some coconut milk and a little liquid sugar to taste. Stir together and enjoy. You can also just use regular milk and make normal iced coffee this way to.
*Start off with a hot cup of coffee. Stir in A packet of hot chocolate mix and around a tbsp of milk. Stir til incorporated and top with whip cream dusted with cinnamon.
*Use my simple sugar mix in flavor of choice and add to either hot or cold coffee.
*Make up a cup of coffee as you normally would. Drop in two Andes Mints and stir until melted. Top with whip cream and a few pieces of broken candy cane or shaved andes mints and you have yourself the perfect peppermint treat.
I hope your inspired to try out more ways to drink Coffee.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Nutella and Fresh Strawberries a Perfect combo
I love simple desserts. While I don't eat them often sometimes when the mood strikes I want something I can make eat and be done with. A real no muss no fuss treat. While talking to someone this evening she mentioned she had a jar of nutella which made me remember this little recipe. I make mine with strawberries but she only had Bananas on hand so used them. I've never tried it with Bananas but if her happy chatter was an indication then I bet it tasted fabulous.
Nutella and Fresh Strawberries
===============================
1-2 pieces bread of your choice
Nutella
3 strawberries sliced lengthwise
1 tsp sugar
*Whip cream is optional but does taste fantastic on the hot Dessert
While assembling turn on oven to broil. Spread a semi thick layer of nutella on your bread slices. Top with strawberries overlapping. Sprinkle the strawberries with sugar and place on a cookie sheet. Place under broiler until the sugar starts to caramelize. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn't burn. Remove from oven and serve sprinkled with powder sugar or a dollop of fresh cream. That's it your done. I hope you enjoy this simple dessert.
Nutella and Fresh Strawberries
===============================
1-2 pieces bread of your choice
Nutella
3 strawberries sliced lengthwise
1 tsp sugar
*Whip cream is optional but does taste fantastic on the hot Dessert
While assembling turn on oven to broil. Spread a semi thick layer of nutella on your bread slices. Top with strawberries overlapping. Sprinkle the strawberries with sugar and place on a cookie sheet. Place under broiler until the sugar starts to caramelize. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn't burn. Remove from oven and serve sprinkled with powder sugar or a dollop of fresh cream. That's it your done. I hope you enjoy this simple dessert.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Apple,Onion and Sage Pork Chops Yes Please
This is actually adapted from a McCormicks spice recipe I bought on a whim last summer. I know, I know spending money on pre-portioned spices is a waste but the recipe looked so good and it never dawned on me to look it up on their website which would of been free. This recipe is super tasty and can be made with chicken or pork. I've used both and they equally tasted good.
Apple,Onion and Sage Pork Chops
===============================
Spices
2 tsp sage
1 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp Paprika
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp thyme
Other Ingredients
1 tbsp Flour
4 Boneless Pork Chops
2 tbsp Olive oil
1 medium red or white onion sliced thinly
2 red apples thinly sliced
1/2 cup apple cider
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp dijonn mustard *you can omit this I like it though*
Mix Flour and all spices and salt in small bowl. Coat pork chops in mixture and set aside. Warm oil in large skillet then cook chops on both sides until browned. Remove and add onion to skillet. Cook until tender. Add apples and cook a few minutes stirring as they do. Stir in cider,sugar and remaining flour to pan and combine until mixed well. Return the pork chops and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce eat to low; cover and simmer 5 minutes more or until desired doneness.
Note: If using chicken cook thoroughly adjust cooking time as necessary.
Apple,Onion and Sage Pork Chops
===============================
Spices
2 tsp sage
1 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp Paprika
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp thyme
Other Ingredients
1 tbsp Flour
4 Boneless Pork Chops
2 tbsp Olive oil
1 medium red or white onion sliced thinly
2 red apples thinly sliced
1/2 cup apple cider
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp dijonn mustard *you can omit this I like it though*
Mix Flour and all spices and salt in small bowl. Coat pork chops in mixture and set aside. Warm oil in large skillet then cook chops on both sides until browned. Remove and add onion to skillet. Cook until tender. Add apples and cook a few minutes stirring as they do. Stir in cider,sugar and remaining flour to pan and combine until mixed well. Return the pork chops and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce eat to low; cover and simmer 5 minutes more or until desired doneness.
Note: If using chicken cook thoroughly adjust cooking time as necessary.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Homemade Hot Dog Buns
Tonight I was going to make hot dogs with homemade chips but realized I needed rolls. While I bake the majority of my bread hot dog rolls and hamburger buns are usually something I still pick up at the store. I went looking online for a simple recipe and realized the majority of bread recipes had been adapted with just a few extra ingredients to make the buns or rolls. After settling on one for cooking times and shaping I set out to make my own buns. I admit a few came out on the skinny side and one even burned a little but the majority came out just like I'd envisioned a normal bakery looking hot dog bun. I also made up two buns to see how they'd work and they came out just fine. I will definitely be making these up again in the future. No more store bought rolls for me. I have been converted.
Homemade Hot Dog Buns
======================
1 1/2 cups warm milk *You can use water if you prefer*
1 tsp yeast
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp sugar
4 cups flour
1 egg
1/3 cup oil
In a large bowl, combine milk, yeast, salt, sugar, egg, and oil. Let sit 5 minutes while the yeast does it's thing. Add 1 cup flour and start to incorporate adding more flour until it begins to pull from the sides of the bowl. Dust countertop or work surface with flour and begin to knead. You should Knead the dough about 8-10 minutes until the surface becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary.
Oil a bowl and place Kneaded dough inside. Turn to coat, then cover and let rise in a warm place about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Once risen uncover bowl and turn out onto a floured surface and knead a few times more. Take about a handful of dough and roll out into desired shape. You can make buns by rolling into a ball and then pressing down lightly. Hoagies by making a thick cigar type roll or Hot dog buns by rolling out a thinner cigar type roll. The Choice is up to you. Now also is the time you can top your buns with seasonings or sesame seeds if you desire.
Once made place on baking sheets and cover lightly with wrap and let rise for 30 minutes more. Once done bake in pre-heated 350F degree oven for 20-25 minutes. That's it and your done. These can be cooled and frozen or used right away if needed.
Homemade Hot Dog Buns
======================
1 1/2 cups warm milk *You can use water if you prefer*
1 tsp yeast
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp sugar
4 cups flour
1 egg
1/3 cup oil
In a large bowl, combine milk, yeast, salt, sugar, egg, and oil. Let sit 5 minutes while the yeast does it's thing. Add 1 cup flour and start to incorporate adding more flour until it begins to pull from the sides of the bowl. Dust countertop or work surface with flour and begin to knead. You should Knead the dough about 8-10 minutes until the surface becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary.
Oil a bowl and place Kneaded dough inside. Turn to coat, then cover and let rise in a warm place about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Once risen uncover bowl and turn out onto a floured surface and knead a few times more. Take about a handful of dough and roll out into desired shape. You can make buns by rolling into a ball and then pressing down lightly. Hoagies by making a thick cigar type roll or Hot dog buns by rolling out a thinner cigar type roll. The Choice is up to you. Now also is the time you can top your buns with seasonings or sesame seeds if you desire.
Once made place on baking sheets and cover lightly with wrap and let rise for 30 minutes more. Once done bake in pre-heated 350F degree oven for 20-25 minutes. That's it and your done. These can be cooled and frozen or used right away if needed.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Fried Chicken
My local grocery store was having a sale on Chicken this week so of course I stocked up. I bought one package of Chicken drumsticks with the intention of grilling them up but it was to cold and icy outside so that didn't quite work out. It's been ages it seems since I've made fried chicken so I thought why not. Now Fried Chicken isn't the healthiest thing for me to eat I know. Which is why I like to only partially fry it and then bake the remaining time in the oven. I still get a crispy crust and it's certainly less fat then frying the whole way. Anyway here is my take on fried chicken. I hope you enjoy.
Fried Chicken
==================
2 cups flour divided
Package of Chicken whichever you prefer
1 egg
1/4 water
3 tbs Honey mustard
4 tbs Cajun seasoning divided
2 tbs Paprika divide
Salt and Pepper to taste
Roughly a 1/2 cup of Vegetable oil add as needed
Pre-Heat oven to 350F degrees
Start by rubbing chicken pieces down with Honey Mustard. Wash Hands then Cover and return to fridge while setting up your dipping station. Divide all dry ingredients between two bowls. In a 3rd bowl mix egg and water and whisk til incorporated well.
Warm up your pan with a thin layer of oil. You want it on a medium to medium high heat but no higher or it's likely to burn your chicken. Remove pieces from fridge. Start by dipping in one bowl of flour. Then move to dipping in egg and finally in your other bowl of flour. When oil is warm cook on both sides about 5 mins or until light brown. Once you've done all your pieces transfer to a lightly greased pan or sided baking sheet and bake in oven 45 minutes. Turning once midway through. That's it your done.
*Cooking times will vary if you use boneless pieces. For this recipe I used drumsticks hence the longer cook time. If using boneless thighs or breasts your oven cook time will be about 30 minutes instead depending on thickness.
Fried Chicken
==================
2 cups flour divided
Package of Chicken whichever you prefer
1 egg
1/4 water
3 tbs Honey mustard
4 tbs Cajun seasoning divided
2 tbs Paprika divide
Salt and Pepper to taste
Roughly a 1/2 cup of Vegetable oil add as needed
Pre-Heat oven to 350F degrees
Start by rubbing chicken pieces down with Honey Mustard. Wash Hands then Cover and return to fridge while setting up your dipping station. Divide all dry ingredients between two bowls. In a 3rd bowl mix egg and water and whisk til incorporated well.
Warm up your pan with a thin layer of oil. You want it on a medium to medium high heat but no higher or it's likely to burn your chicken. Remove pieces from fridge. Start by dipping in one bowl of flour. Then move to dipping in egg and finally in your other bowl of flour. When oil is warm cook on both sides about 5 mins or until light brown. Once you've done all your pieces transfer to a lightly greased pan or sided baking sheet and bake in oven 45 minutes. Turning once midway through. That's it your done.
*Cooking times will vary if you use boneless pieces. For this recipe I used drumsticks hence the longer cook time. If using boneless thighs or breasts your oven cook time will be about 30 minutes instead depending on thickness.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Depression Era No Butter,Milk or Egg Cake
While searching around online for a muffin recipe for Breakfast I stumbled across a website with old Depression era recipes on it. One in particular jumped out at me because it was a chocolate cake which used no eggs,milk or butter. I switched up a few ingredients but decided to try it. The cake came out super moist, springy and oh so flavorful. Needless to say my unexpected find turned out to be a big hit.
Depression Era No butter,milk or egg chocolate Cake
====================================================
3 cups flour
2 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
6 tbs unsweetened dutch cocoa powder
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
2/3 cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
2 cups Water
Before Beginning Pre-heat oven to 350F Degrees.
In a large bowl stir together all dry ingredients. In another bowl combine all wet ingredients. Pour the Wet Ingredients into the dry and stir together until smooth. Pour Batter into a greased 9x13 pan. Bake in Oven until toothpick inserted comes out clean. This should take about 20-25 minutes. Serve warm.
Depression Era No butter,milk or egg chocolate Cake
====================================================
3 cups flour
2 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
6 tbs unsweetened dutch cocoa powder
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
2/3 cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
2 cups Water
Before Beginning Pre-heat oven to 350F Degrees.
In a large bowl stir together all dry ingredients. In another bowl combine all wet ingredients. Pour the Wet Ingredients into the dry and stir together until smooth. Pour Batter into a greased 9x13 pan. Bake in Oven until toothpick inserted comes out clean. This should take about 20-25 minutes. Serve warm.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Simple Syrups
When it gets cold outside nothing makes me happier then drinking a tall glass of hot coffee with peppermint in it. I used to scour store shelves for when the Peppermint syrup came on sale or buy the Peppermint Creamers in the dairy aisle. That was until I figured out just how easy making a simple syrup for my coffee truly was. The basis for this syrup can be made with any flavors you wish and can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container up to 6 months.
Simple Syrup
===================
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp Flavoring of your choosing
*you can add more for a stronger flavor
Pour sugar and water mixture into a pot and bring to a boil. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture translucent. Remove from Heat and let cool. While cooling add your flavoring stir well. Once completely cooled store transfer to container or your choosing and keep in the fridge. That's it your done. Recipe makes roughly 1 1/2 cups.
Side Note: You can add cinnamon sticks, vanilla bean, citrus peel etc.... to infuse flavoring in the cooling mixture just make sure to remove before pouring into bottles.
Simple Syrup
===================
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp Flavoring of your choosing
*you can add more for a stronger flavor
Pour sugar and water mixture into a pot and bring to a boil. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture translucent. Remove from Heat and let cool. While cooling add your flavoring stir well. Once completely cooled store transfer to container or your choosing and keep in the fridge. That's it your done. Recipe makes roughly 1 1/2 cups.
Side Note: You can add cinnamon sticks, vanilla bean, citrus peel etc.... to infuse flavoring in the cooling mixture just make sure to remove before pouring into bottles.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Sugar Donut Muffins
This is a super simple way to have donuts in the morning without having to even leave the house. Pair it with your favorite coffee and you have a nice morning treat.
Sugar Donut Muffins
------------------------
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
2 tsp Baking Powder
1/4 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 milk *I like buttermilk but use what you want*
1 tbsp Vanilla
Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Lightly butter or spray a muffin tin and set aside.
In a large bowl mix together your sugar and egg until light in color. In a separate bowl mix together all other dry ingredients. Pour into egg mixture and combine. Add remaining wet ingredients and combine until thoroughly incorporated. Divide batter into muffin cups. Depending on the size of your tins you will be able to make differing amounts but for my size pan I make around 11. Bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
When done remove from pan and lightly brush with melted butter and roll in a mixture of cinnamon sugar. That's it your done.
Sugar Donut Muffins
------------------------
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
2 tsp Baking Powder
1/4 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 milk *I like buttermilk but use what you want*
1 tbsp Vanilla
Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Lightly butter or spray a muffin tin and set aside.
In a large bowl mix together your sugar and egg until light in color. In a separate bowl mix together all other dry ingredients. Pour into egg mixture and combine. Add remaining wet ingredients and combine until thoroughly incorporated. Divide batter into muffin cups. Depending on the size of your tins you will be able to make differing amounts but for my size pan I make around 11. Bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
When done remove from pan and lightly brush with melted butter and roll in a mixture of cinnamon sugar. That's it your done.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Simple Cinnamon Rolls
This morning we had run out of oatmeal and I was left scratching my head deciding what to make. Nobody wanted muffins and I wasn't in the mood to wait for bagels to bake and rise. My husband suggested Cinnamon rolls. I was hesitant at first since last time I made them they didn't turn out so well. I decided to give another recipe a shot since kids and hubby really wanted them. The base recipe was found online on E-how but I adjusted it for what I had on hand and I think they tasted fantastic.
Cinnamon Rolls
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Dough
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2 cups of white flour
3 teaspoons baking power
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup of oil
2/3 cup buttermilk
Filling
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3 Tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup of white sugar
1/4 cup of brown sugar
3 teaspoons of cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla
Before Beginning Pre-Heat oven to 400F degrees.
Mix all dough dry ingredients together in a bowl. Add oil and start to combine, then add the milk until dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides. Lightly flour your counter or cutting board and roll out dough into a rectangle. Dough should be about 1/4 inch thick.
Sprinkle cinnamon on dough. Melt your butter and add the vanilla to it. Brush on top of cinnamon and sprinkle with your sugars. Roll up your dough starting on one side and roll into a log. Cut into 1 inch slices with a sharp knife. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 400f Degrees around 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and serve warm. You can make a glaze on top with milk and powdered sugar but my family prefers just a little pat of butter on top. Makes around 15-16 rolls.
Cinnamon Rolls
------------------
Dough
------------
2 cups of white flour
3 teaspoons baking power
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup of oil
2/3 cup buttermilk
Filling
------------
3 Tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup of white sugar
1/4 cup of brown sugar
3 teaspoons of cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla
Before Beginning Pre-Heat oven to 400F degrees.
Mix all dough dry ingredients together in a bowl. Add oil and start to combine, then add the milk until dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides. Lightly flour your counter or cutting board and roll out dough into a rectangle. Dough should be about 1/4 inch thick.
Sprinkle cinnamon on dough. Melt your butter and add the vanilla to it. Brush on top of cinnamon and sprinkle with your sugars. Roll up your dough starting on one side and roll into a log. Cut into 1 inch slices with a sharp knife. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 400f Degrees around 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and serve warm. You can make a glaze on top with milk and powdered sugar but my family prefers just a little pat of butter on top. Makes around 15-16 rolls.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Bread Crumbs
Since I bake all my own bread sometimes when trying out new recipes things don't go exactly as planned. So what to do with the misses. Why not bake breadcrumbs! I leave the bread on the counter unwrapped for several hours. When it's good and hard I take out my trusty cheese grater and start grating away the loaf. Once it's all grated spread in a thin layer on a cookie sheet. You can season these anyway you want. I use garlic, salt and Italian seasoning on mine. Bake in Pre-Heated oven at 350F Degrees 10 minutes or until browned. Just keep an eye on them and stir around if necessary so they don't burn. These keep a few weeks if stored in an airtight container in a cool dry place.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Sugar Cookies
This afternoon I had promised my kids I'd make cookies. Unfortunately nobody could agree on what they'd like so I settled on a basic sugar cookie. We made up the original recipe and then divided the mixture into 3 bowls. The first stayed normal, 2nd batch sprinkles were added in and the final bowl had 1/2 cup peanut butter added to it. All three versions turned out fantastic. I think the plain mix could of used slightly more vanilla in it but my kids and husband liked em as they were just fine.
Sugar Cookies
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2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
*Optional Peanut Butter and Sprinkles
Directions
Preheat oven to 375F degrees. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
This Recipe Makes about 4 Dozen. You can use a tablespoon if you prefer a larger cookie. Recipe will yield roughly 2 1/2 dozens if a Tbsp is used.
Sugar Cookies
================
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
*Optional Peanut Butter and Sprinkles
Directions
Preheat oven to 375F degrees. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
This Recipe Makes about 4 Dozen. You can use a tablespoon if you prefer a larger cookie. Recipe will yield roughly 2 1/2 dozens if a Tbsp is used.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Pizza and lemons odd yet so good
I love to dip my pizza in garlic butter but while extremely tasty prob not the healthiest thing to do. One day while talking online with a friend she mentioned how she always dips her pizza in lemon juice. I scoffed and wrinkled my nose. Pizza and Lemon juice to odd. That was until I had no butter in the house. I could have chose ranch dressing or even had it plain but looking through my fridge I noticed a little yellow lemon standing out among the sea of condiments and salad dressing. I took a small bowl out of the cupboard and squirted some juice inside. My husband agreed to try it with me, so in the bowl our pizza slices went. I was so surprised, it tasted fantastic. The sauce and hot cheese with a burst of citrus complimented each other so perfectly. My husband even made me put some in his own dipping bowl. Now whenever we happen to go out for pizza we always ask for lemon packets or slices and though we may get the occasional odd look we don't care. So if your brave and want to try something new I suggest you try this next time you have a slice. You'll surely be glad you did.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Turkey Stew
The little 5lb turkey from two days ago was sitting in my fridge just begging to be made into something else. Not that turkey with sides isn't good I just wanted something different tonight. So I settled on something in the crock pot. The turkey came with a Gravy pouch inside it but I set it aside instead of using it. This stew uses very few ingredients but it came out tasty and the kids asked for seconds so I knew it had to have passed the taste test.
Turkey Stew
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1 pound turkey breast *mine was pre cooked but raw would work fine*
2 lrg potatoes cut in chunks
1 container gravy
2 cups water
half a package of Green Beans
Empty your gravy into the crock pot and add 2 cups water. Pull the cooked turkey into bite size pieces and place in the crock pot. I let the turkey cook in the gravy mixture several hours while I was deciding what else to put in the stew but if using cooked turkey you can certainly skip to adding the potatoes and green beans. Dice your Potatoes and add to pot. Then add half a bag of frozen green beans. Turn crock pot to high and cook for an hour or until potatoes are tender. Serve with rolls and Enjoy.
Turkey Stew
=================
1 pound turkey breast *mine was pre cooked but raw would work fine*
2 lrg potatoes cut in chunks
1 container gravy
2 cups water
half a package of Green Beans
Empty your gravy into the crock pot and add 2 cups water. Pull the cooked turkey into bite size pieces and place in the crock pot. I let the turkey cook in the gravy mixture several hours while I was deciding what else to put in the stew but if using cooked turkey you can certainly skip to adding the potatoes and green beans. Dice your Potatoes and add to pot. Then add half a bag of frozen green beans. Turn crock pot to high and cook for an hour or until potatoes are tender. Serve with rolls and Enjoy.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Buttered Turkey
For Dinner tonight I made a turkey well the Turkey sans Dark meat. Last time at the store turkey breast on the bone was on sale so I picked up two. I went to work thinking how I wanted to cook it. Eventually I settled on making a butter rub. The turkey came out moist and flavor packed. The skin which is always my favorite snack came out crisp and delicious.
Buttered Turkey
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1 5lb Breast of Turkey
3-4 tbsp butter
Garlic powder to taste
1 tbsp Cilantro
1 tsp each salt and pepper
Preheat oven according to directions. Mix together ingredients and rub all over turkey. Your going to have to get your hands in on this no pastry brush. I rubbed the mixture on the skin as well as inside the turkey. Then set the time for 75 minutes and popped in the oven. Once the timer goes off the first time remove and take a spoon or brush and brush with remaining mixture then pop back in the over for 75 minutes or until done.
The turkey came with a gravy packet but I am not lying this meat did not need it at all. I can't wait til tomorrow when I can find a multitude of uses for this delicious meat. Til then Happy Eating.
Buttered Turkey
------------------
1 5lb Breast of Turkey
3-4 tbsp butter
Garlic powder to taste
1 tbsp Cilantro
1 tsp each salt and pepper
Preheat oven according to directions. Mix together ingredients and rub all over turkey. Your going to have to get your hands in on this no pastry brush. I rubbed the mixture on the skin as well as inside the turkey. Then set the time for 75 minutes and popped in the oven. Once the timer goes off the first time remove and take a spoon or brush and brush with remaining mixture then pop back in the over for 75 minutes or until done.
The turkey came with a gravy packet but I am not lying this meat did not need it at all. I can't wait til tomorrow when I can find a multitude of uses for this delicious meat. Til then Happy Eating.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Party Drinks, Appetizers and a good time
I don't know about you but I hate when I go over someones house and they put out a stale bowl of chips and open a $2 package of dip and call that an appetizer. Sure I don't expect 5star cuisine but a little thought would be nice. Maybe my expectations are to high. I don't entertain often but when I do I like to whip up a diverse group of things. Usually kids are involved and one of my kids favorites is Spinach balls served hot with ketchup as dip. Another big hit is a sweet cheese ball and crackers. But being American I need at least one traditional party food and that is your garden variety meat tray but how do I kick it up a notch. I make a spicy mayonnaise and bake the bread myself.
Now onto the drinks. Ah so much to choose from Beer, Wine, Mixers, Soda, Coffee, Lemonade the choices are endless. Beer is always a fan favorite but with so many varied tastes I buy what I like and everyone else can bring what they like or suck up drinking my preference. Afterall a host has her limits and drinking Budweiser is not one of them lol. One of my favorite mixed drinks is a simple rum and cola. But being adventurous I never turn down the chance to try something new. This New Years it was a Hot Apple Cider, cinnamon and Crown concoction I found online very simple and very tasty. I also Made up a Banana Rum, Cola, Cherry Syrup and a hint of lime juice drink. Super delicious and definitely something I will be making again. Not to forget the kids I keep Cranberry Juice and Ginger Ale around. Alone two very tasty drinks but put together and you have the perfect non Alcoholic drink. So next time your planning a party. Try and think outside the box. Your guests and you will enjoy it.
Now onto the drinks. Ah so much to choose from Beer, Wine, Mixers, Soda, Coffee, Lemonade the choices are endless. Beer is always a fan favorite but with so many varied tastes I buy what I like and everyone else can bring what they like or suck up drinking my preference. Afterall a host has her limits and drinking Budweiser is not one of them lol. One of my favorite mixed drinks is a simple rum and cola. But being adventurous I never turn down the chance to try something new. This New Years it was a Hot Apple Cider, cinnamon and Crown concoction I found online very simple and very tasty. I also Made up a Banana Rum, Cola, Cherry Syrup and a hint of lime juice drink. Super delicious and definitely something I will be making again. Not to forget the kids I keep Cranberry Juice and Ginger Ale around. Alone two very tasty drinks but put together and you have the perfect non Alcoholic drink. So next time your planning a party. Try and think outside the box. Your guests and you will enjoy it.
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