The pumpkin is a member of the gourd family, which is native to the Western Hemisphere. There is evidence to support that the natives of Mexico were eating gourds as early as 5500 BC. When the Colonists arrived in North America, the Native Americans were growing pumpkins. It was after learning about these pumpkins did the Pumpkin Pie tradition begin during the Fall.
Large, round and orange, the pumpkin has a mild sweet flavor with edible seeds. The seeds are commonly known as pepitas
Season: September through March.
How to Choose:
Smaller sized pumpkins have a more tender and sweet flavor. The
largest pumpkins available weigh over 100 pounds. Choose a pumpkin that is heavy for its size and shows as few blemishes as possible.
Storage:
Store pumpkins at room temperature up to a month, or up to 3 months in the refrigerator. Any cut up pieces should be wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerated up to 5 days.
Spices:
Allspice, brown sugar, butter, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, ginger, nutmeg.
The spices traditionally used with pumpkin are considered warming
spices in Asian medicine. This aids in digestion and gives a boost of energy. Too much can cause burning in the stomach and nervousness.
Preparation:
Pumpkin can be prepared like any other squash, peeling skin if so desired. Rinse and cut the squash lengthwise. Remove and discard the seeds and excess fiber. May peel skin if desired.
Stir-Fry: tender when pierced.
Bake: 400 degrees 30 ˆ 40 minutes, uncovered.
Microwave: halve the squash and microwave for 10 -12 minutes.
Boil: Cut into chunks and boil 7 ˆ 9 minutes.
Steam: Cube and steam for 6 ˆ 8 minutes.
Roast: 400 degrees for 30 ˆ 45 minutes.
Wine Pairings:
Depending on how you prepare your pumpkin and to what you are going to serve it with, try serving a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc with your pumpkin soup; or a Sauternes, Vouvray, Moscata D'Asti, Auslesen or Zinfandel Blanc with your pumpkin pie.
Equivalencies
1 pound = 1 cup cooked and mashed
Nutritional Qualities
1 cup cooked = 80 calories, 2 grams protein, 1 gram fat, 18 grams
carbohydrates, with riboflavin, Vitamins A & C. Pumpkin contains some anthelmintic properties, which is helpful against prostate disorders, stomach problems, worms, nausea and morning sickness.
RECIPE:
Cream of Pumpkin Soup
8 Servings
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 onion, roughly diced
4 cups pumpkins, pureed canned or fresh
3 quarts chicken stock, or low sodium canned chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
3 cups milk, and/or whipping cream
/3 cup walnut oil
MELT BUTTER IN A 2-QUART POT over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion softens, about 10 minutes. Add the pumpkin and salt and continue to cook, stirring, another 15 minutes for fresh pumpkin, 5 minutes for canned. Add the stock, salt, coriander, curry and pepper. Cover, increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and place in a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Combine puree, milk and walnut oil. Cover, bring to the boil and cook 2 minutes. Serve piping hot.
Source: Public domain recipes converted from Meal Master format
Special Thanks to Jennifer Wickes for this post
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Loaded Baked Potato Dip
Ingredients
1 (2.1-oz.) package fully cooked bacon slices
1 (16-oz.) container sour cream 2 cups
(8 oz.) freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup sliced fresh chives
2 teaspoons hot sauce Garnishes:
cooked, crumbled bacon;
sliced fresh chives;
freshly cracked pepper
Serve with: waffle fries
Preparation
Microwave bacon according to package directions until crisp; drain on paper towels. Cool 10 minutes; crumble. Stir together bacon and next 4 ingredients. Cover and chill 1 to 24 hours before serving. Garnish, if desired. Serve with crispy, warm waffle fries. Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 7 days.
Southern Living JANUARY 2011
1 (2.1-oz.) package fully cooked bacon slices
1 (16-oz.) container sour cream 2 cups
(8 oz.) freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup sliced fresh chives
2 teaspoons hot sauce Garnishes:
cooked, crumbled bacon;
sliced fresh chives;
freshly cracked pepper
Serve with: waffle fries
Preparation
Microwave bacon according to package directions until crisp; drain on paper towels. Cool 10 minutes; crumble. Stir together bacon and next 4 ingredients. Cover and chill 1 to 24 hours before serving. Garnish, if desired. Serve with crispy, warm waffle fries. Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 7 days.
Southern Living JANUARY 2011
Monday, September 5, 2011
Meatballs a la Pizzaiola!
In Italy someone who makes pizza is called a Pizzaiola. This is one of my all time fav's! I use this recipe at least two or three times a month. My whole family enjoys these yummy little bites in so many different ways. They are great as an appetizer, but also delicious with pasta, as a side dish, in a sub or in soup. What will be your favorite way to have them?
Ingredients
8 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese
2 large shallots, chopped
1/4 cup (5 to 6) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
1/3 cup packed fresh basil leaves
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon tomato paste
3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 1/2 pounds ground beef chuck (80% lean)
1 pound ground pork
Olive oil, for frying
Vegetable oil, for frying
Marinara sauce, warmed, for serving (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Dice the smoked mozzarella into 1/2-inch cubes. Set aside.
In a food processor, pulse the shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, shredded mozzarella, parmesan, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper until blended. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the beef and pork and, using a wooden spoon or clean hands, stir until combined. Form into 1 1/4-to-1 1/2-inch meatballs. Insert 1 cube smoked mozzarella into the center of each meatball and form the meat around it, enclosing the cheese.
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour equal parts olive oil and vegetable oil to fill the pan halfway. Heat over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer reaches 350 degrees F. In batches, fry the meatballs until dark brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Place the fried meatballs on a foil-lined baking sheet. Put in the oven and bake until cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes. Cool slightly, then serve immediately with marinara sauce, if desired.
Recipe courtesy Giada DeLaurentiis
Ingredients
8 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese
2 large shallots, chopped
1/4 cup (5 to 6) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
1/3 cup packed fresh basil leaves
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon tomato paste
3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 1/2 pounds ground beef chuck (80% lean)
1 pound ground pork
Olive oil, for frying
Vegetable oil, for frying
Marinara sauce, warmed, for serving (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Dice the smoked mozzarella into 1/2-inch cubes. Set aside.
In a food processor, pulse the shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, shredded mozzarella, parmesan, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper until blended. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the beef and pork and, using a wooden spoon or clean hands, stir until combined. Form into 1 1/4-to-1 1/2-inch meatballs. Insert 1 cube smoked mozzarella into the center of each meatball and form the meat around it, enclosing the cheese.
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour equal parts olive oil and vegetable oil to fill the pan halfway. Heat over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer reaches 350 degrees F. In batches, fry the meatballs until dark brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Place the fried meatballs on a foil-lined baking sheet. Put in the oven and bake until cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes. Cool slightly, then serve immediately with marinara sauce, if desired.
Recipe courtesy Giada DeLaurentiis
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Sandwich Art!
Add a twist to the term "starving artist" by creating masterpieces with food coloring paint on a crusty canvas.
Ingredients
Paper cup
Milk
Food coloring
New paintbrushes
White bread
Toaster
Instructions
1.Fill each paper cup with two tbsp. of milk. Add a few drops of food coloring to each cup.
2.Paint pictures and designs on the bread using the colored milk and new paintbrushes.
3.Toast lightly and use the slices to make crazy sandwiches.
For more great recipes like this check out familyfun.go.com
Ingredients
Paper cup
Milk
Food coloring
New paintbrushes
White bread
Toaster
Instructions
1.Fill each paper cup with two tbsp. of milk. Add a few drops of food coloring to each cup.
2.Paint pictures and designs on the bread using the colored milk and new paintbrushes.
3.Toast lightly and use the slices to make crazy sandwiches.
For more great recipes like this check out familyfun.go.com
School of Fish!
It won't take long to reel kids in for snack time with these sweet-and-salty goldfish!
Ingredients
Dried apricots Cream cheese
Mini pretzels Mini chocolate chips
Instructions
1.For each fish, slit one end of a dried apricot and insert the bottom of a mini pretzel. Pinch the apricot around the pretzel to hold it in place.
2.For a fish eye, pipe on a small dot of cream cheese (a plastic sandwich bag with a corner snipped off works well for this) and then press a mini chocolate chip, tip down, into the cream cheese.
For more great recipes like this one check out familyfun.go.com
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Mango Salsa Scoops! Great Back to School Snack!
Toss 1 cup each diced mango and black beans with 1/4 cup diced red onion. Add 2 tablespoons each chopped pickled jalapenos and the liquid from the jar, chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt. Serve in tortilla scoops.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Red Hearts, Happy Valentine's Day!
Ingredients:
1 cup shortening 2 cups white sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup buttermilk 2 teaspoons baking soda 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3 drops red food coloring
Directions:
Mix ingredients in the order given. Divide dough and add enough red food coloring for desired shades of pink or red.
Refrigerate dough for 40 to 60 minutes.
Roll and cut out with heart cutters. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 11 minutes. Do not overbake.
1 cup shortening 2 cups white sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup buttermilk 2 teaspoons baking soda 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3 drops red food coloring
Directions:
Mix ingredients in the order given. Divide dough and add enough red food coloring for desired shades of pink or red.
Refrigerate dough for 40 to 60 minutes.
Roll and cut out with heart cutters. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 11 minutes. Do not overbake.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Shrimp Bisque with Bourbon
Ingredients
2 pound(s) large shrimp
2 tablespoon(s) olive oil
2 teaspoon(s) salt
1/2 teaspoon(s) fresh-ground pepper
1/4 cup(s) bourbon
3 tablespoon(s) bourbon
3 tablespoon(s) unsalted butter
3/4 cup(s) celery, chopped
3/4 cup(s) fennel, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
3 clove(s) garlic, chopped
3 tablespoon(s) tomato paste
2 tablespoon(s) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup(s) white wine
1/2 cup(s) low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup(s) basmati rice
1/2 teaspoon(s) (each) dried rosemary and thyme
8 tablespoon(s) heavy cream
Directions
1.Cook the shrimp: Peel, devein, and, reserving 16 whole shrimp, coarsely chop remaining shrimp, reserving shells. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large Dutch oven over high heat. Season shrimp with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Cook chopped shrimp until just opaque. Add remaining oil and shrimp shells to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until shells begin to brown. Add 1/4 cup bourbon and cook, stirring constantly, until reduced by half. Transfer shells and liquid to a bowl and set aside.
2.Make the soup: Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan and melt over medium heat. Add celery and fennel and cook for 10 minutes. Add onions, garlic, and remaining salt and pepper and cook until onions are soft. Add tomato paste and cook until it begins to coat the bottom of the pan. Add 1 tablespoon butter and melt. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, to incorporate. Add wine, 5 cups water, broth, rice, herbs, and shrimp shells and bring to a simmer. Cook until rice is tender, about 35 minutes. Run soup and shells through a food mill, discard solids, and return to pan set over low heat. Add chopped shrimp, cream, and remaining bourbon and cook until heated through. Melt remaining butter in a small skillet over high heat and sauté the reserved shrimp until cooked through, about 4 minutes. Divide soup among 8 bowls, garnish with shrimp, and serve.
For More great Recipes that compliment this soup click here.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Winter Woods Chili
Hot chili has long been a favorite of cattlemen and cowboys on cold winter nights for its satisfying bite. This recipe combines bacon and beef with navy and red beans, tomatoes, onions, and the perfect pinch of chili powder. Serve with a side of cornbread and a generous topping of shredded cheese and fresh cilantro for a delicious flavor twist your family will love.
4 slices bacon
3 lb. beef stew meat
1 large onion, sliced 1/2-inch thick
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 28-oz. cans whole tomatoes
1 15.5-oz can navy beans, rinsed and drained
1 15.5-oz. can red beans, rinsed and drained
2 to 3 Tbsp. chili powder
2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
Shredded cheddar cheese
Snipped fresh oregano
Cooked bacon, crumbled
directions
In 4- to 6-quart Dutch oven cook bacon and beef, half at a time, over medium heat until beef is browned. Drain fat. Return meat to pan. Reduce heat; add onions and half of garlic. Cook and stir until onion is tender.
Add undrained tomatoes, beans, and 1 tablespoon of the chili powder. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining garlic, chili powder, and vinegar. Cook, covered, 1 hour. Add water to desired consistency. Season to taste. Top servings with cheese, oregano, and crumbled bacon. Makes 6 servings.
recipe source
BHG.com
ingredients
4 slices bacon
3 lb. beef stew meat
1 large onion, sliced 1/2-inch thick
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 28-oz. cans whole tomatoes
1 15.5-oz can navy beans, rinsed and drained
1 15.5-oz. can red beans, rinsed and drained
2 to 3 Tbsp. chili powder
2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
Shredded cheddar cheese
Snipped fresh oregano
Cooked bacon, crumbled
directions
In 4- to 6-quart Dutch oven cook bacon and beef, half at a time, over medium heat until beef is browned. Drain fat. Return meat to pan. Reduce heat; add onions and half of garlic. Cook and stir until onion is tender.
Add undrained tomatoes, beans, and 1 tablespoon of the chili powder. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining garlic, chili powder, and vinegar. Cook, covered, 1 hour. Add water to desired consistency. Season to taste. Top servings with cheese, oregano, and crumbled bacon. Makes 6 servings.
recipe source
BHG.com
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Igloo Cake
Welcome winter with this fabulous cake by Martha Stewart.
You will get rave reviews from adults and kids alike.
Ingredients: Makes one 8 1/2-inch dome cake
Unsalted butter, for baking sheets
1 1/4 cups unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder, plus more, sifted, for baking sheets
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
2 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk
1 1/4 cups low-fat buttermilk
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Vegetable oil cooking spray
1 quart good-quality chocolate ice cream
1 1/2 quarts good-quality vanilla ice cream
White-Chocolate Buttercream
4 large marshmallows, halved
White, pale-blue, and silver sanding sugar, for decorating
Marzipan Penguins
Desiccated unsweetened coconut, for decorating
Directions:
1.Preheat oven to 350. Butter two 12-by-17-inch rimmed baking sheets. Line bottoms with parchment paper; butter parchment. Dust with cocoa powder, and tap out excess; set aside.
2.Sift cocoa, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add eggs and yolk, 1 1/4 cups warm water, the buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix on low speed until smooth.
3.Divide batter between prepared sheets. Bake until a cake tester comes out clean, about 16 minutes. Let cool on wire racks 30 minutes. Turn out cakes onto racks, and let cool completely.
4.Coat an 8 1/2-inch (9-cup) ovenproof bowl with cooking spray. Line with plastic wrap, leaving a 2-inch overhang. Cut one cake layer crosswise into 4-inch-wide strips, and use to line bowl (there should be no gaps). Cut a 9-inch round from remaining cake layer; set aside.
5.One at a time, mix ice creams in the bowl of electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth. Spread 1 cup vanilla ice cream over cake in bowl; spread 1 1/2 cups chocolate ice cream on top. Continue layering ice creams, alternating 1 1/2 cups of each flavor, stopping 1/2 inch from rim. Press cake over ice cream. Wrap in plastic; freeze overnight.
6.Turn out cake onto a 9-inch cake board. Freeze 15 minutes. Spread a thin layer of buttercream (about 1/2 cup) over cake, and freeze until firm, about 15 minutes. Transfer remaining buttercream to a pastry bag fitted with a basket-weave tip (such as Ateco #898). With smooth side of tip facing you, and starting at top of cake, pipe 1-inch rectangles all over cake (pictured below). If cake begins to soften, freeze 15 minutes.
7.Using marshmallows, make the outline of the door. Using a smaller basket-weave tip (such as Ateco #895), pipe rectangles over marshmallows. Sprinkle sanding sugar all over cake. Freeze until ready to serve, up to 1 day. Attach marzipan penguins to cake with toothpicks, and garnish with coconut "snow."
.
Read more at Marthastewart.com: Igloo Cake - Martha Stewart Recipes
You will get rave reviews from adults and kids alike.
Ingredients: Makes one 8 1/2-inch dome cake
Unsalted butter, for baking sheets
1 1/4 cups unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder, plus more, sifted, for baking sheets
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
2 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk
1 1/4 cups low-fat buttermilk
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Vegetable oil cooking spray
1 quart good-quality chocolate ice cream
1 1/2 quarts good-quality vanilla ice cream
White-Chocolate Buttercream
4 large marshmallows, halved
White, pale-blue, and silver sanding sugar, for decorating
Marzipan Penguins
Desiccated unsweetened coconut, for decorating
Directions:
1.Preheat oven to 350. Butter two 12-by-17-inch rimmed baking sheets. Line bottoms with parchment paper; butter parchment. Dust with cocoa powder, and tap out excess; set aside.
2.Sift cocoa, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add eggs and yolk, 1 1/4 cups warm water, the buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix on low speed until smooth.
3.Divide batter between prepared sheets. Bake until a cake tester comes out clean, about 16 minutes. Let cool on wire racks 30 minutes. Turn out cakes onto racks, and let cool completely.
4.Coat an 8 1/2-inch (9-cup) ovenproof bowl with cooking spray. Line with plastic wrap, leaving a 2-inch overhang. Cut one cake layer crosswise into 4-inch-wide strips, and use to line bowl (there should be no gaps). Cut a 9-inch round from remaining cake layer; set aside.
5.One at a time, mix ice creams in the bowl of electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth. Spread 1 cup vanilla ice cream over cake in bowl; spread 1 1/2 cups chocolate ice cream on top. Continue layering ice creams, alternating 1 1/2 cups of each flavor, stopping 1/2 inch from rim. Press cake over ice cream. Wrap in plastic; freeze overnight.
6.Turn out cake onto a 9-inch cake board. Freeze 15 minutes. Spread a thin layer of buttercream (about 1/2 cup) over cake, and freeze until firm, about 15 minutes. Transfer remaining buttercream to a pastry bag fitted with a basket-weave tip (such as Ateco #898). With smooth side of tip facing you, and starting at top of cake, pipe 1-inch rectangles all over cake (pictured below). If cake begins to soften, freeze 15 minutes.
7.Using marshmallows, make the outline of the door. Using a smaller basket-weave tip (such as Ateco #895), pipe rectangles over marshmallows. Sprinkle sanding sugar all over cake. Freeze until ready to serve, up to 1 day. Attach marzipan penguins to cake with toothpicks, and garnish with coconut "snow."
.
Read more at Marthastewart.com: Igloo Cake - Martha Stewart Recipes
Monday, January 3, 2011
Blueberry SNOW!
Ingredients:
1 (10 inch) angel food cake 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese 1 cup milk 1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 (21 ounce) can blueberry pie filling 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Break angel food cake into small pieces, and spread into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
Mix together confectioners' sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Pour over cake pieces. Pour blueberries over all. Chill for 4 hours or overnight.
1 (10 inch) angel food cake 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese 1 cup milk 1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 (21 ounce) can blueberry pie filling 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Break angel food cake into small pieces, and spread into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
Mix together confectioners' sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Pour over cake pieces. Pour blueberries over all. Chill for 4 hours or overnight.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
New Years Day Soup!
Ingredients:
1 pound dry black-eyed peas 3 (10.5 ounce) cans beef broth 1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, drained ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large saucepan with enough water to cover, soak the black-eyed peas 8 hours, or overnight.
Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas, and return to the saucepan. Mix in the beef broth, dry onion soup mix, sausage, rice, and green chilies. Season with pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Add water as necessary to keep the ingredients covered with liquid.
1 pound dry black-eyed peas 3 (10.5 ounce) cans beef broth 1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, drained ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large saucepan with enough water to cover, soak the black-eyed peas 8 hours, or overnight.
Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas, and return to the saucepan. Mix in the beef broth, dry onion soup mix, sausage, rice, and green chilies. Season with pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Add water as necessary to keep the ingredients covered with liquid.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
1 pound ground pork sausage 1 teaspoon mustard powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 eggs, beaten 2 cups milk 6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes 8 ounces mild Cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions:
Crumble sausage into a medium skillet. Cook over medium heat until evenly brown; drain.
In a medium bowl, mix together mustard powder, salt, eggs and milk. Add the sausage, bread cubes, and cheese, and stir to coat evenly. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover, and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Cover, and bake 45 to 60 minutes. Uncover, and reduce temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until set.
Variations:
Ingredients:
7 slices white bread, crusts removed and cubed 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese 6 eggs 3 cups milk 1 teaspoon ground mustard 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
Directions:
In a greased 11-in. x 7-in. x 2-in. baking dish, combine the bread cubes and cheese. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, mustard, salt and pepper; pour over bread and cheese. Top with bacon. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 50-55 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
1 pound ground pork sausage 1 teaspoon mustard powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 eggs, beaten 2 cups milk 6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes 8 ounces mild Cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions:
Crumble sausage into a medium skillet. Cook over medium heat until evenly brown; drain.
In a medium bowl, mix together mustard powder, salt, eggs and milk. Add the sausage, bread cubes, and cheese, and stir to coat evenly. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover, and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Cover, and bake 45 to 60 minutes. Uncover, and reduce temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until set.
Variations:
Ingredients:
7 slices white bread, crusts removed and cubed 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese 6 eggs 3 cups milk 1 teaspoon ground mustard 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
Directions:
In a greased 11-in. x 7-in. x 2-in. baking dish, combine the bread cubes and cheese. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, mustard, salt and pepper; pour over bread and cheese. Top with bacon. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 50-55 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Non-Edible Cinnamon Ornaments
Ingredients:
1 cup ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground cloves 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg 3/4 cup applesauce 2 tablespoons glue
Directions:
In a medium bowl, stir together the cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix in the applesauce and glue. Work the mixture with your hands 2 to 3 minutes to form a ball. If mixture is too wet, add more cinnamon. If mixture is too dry, add more applesauce.
Lightly dust a clean surface with cinnamon. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters, and use a toothpick to make a hole at the top for hanging with a ribbon.
Dry in a slow oven 200 degrees F (100 degrees C) for several hours, or air dry in a sunny spot for 4 or 5 days. When dry, decorate with gingham and/ or ribbon.
1 cup ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground cloves 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg 3/4 cup applesauce 2 tablespoons glue
Directions:
In a medium bowl, stir together the cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix in the applesauce and glue. Work the mixture with your hands 2 to 3 minutes to form a ball. If mixture is too wet, add more cinnamon. If mixture is too dry, add more applesauce.
Lightly dust a clean surface with cinnamon. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters, and use a toothpick to make a hole at the top for hanging with a ribbon.
Dry in a slow oven 200 degrees F (100 degrees C) for several hours, or air dry in a sunny spot for 4 or 5 days. When dry, decorate with gingham and/ or ribbon.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Corn Casserole - So Easy and So quick!
Your Family will love finding this on your Thanksgiving Table!
Ingredients
1 (15 1/4-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (14 3/4-ounce) can cream-style corn
1 (8-ounce) package corn muffin mix (recommended: Jiffy)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, stir together the 2 cans of corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Pour into a greased 9 by 13-inch casserole dish. Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and top with Cheddar. Return to oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Let stand for at least 5 minutes and then serve warm.
Ingredients
1 (15 1/4-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (14 3/4-ounce) can cream-style corn
1 (8-ounce) package corn muffin mix (recommended: Jiffy)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, stir together the 2 cans of corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Pour into a greased 9 by 13-inch casserole dish. Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and top with Cheddar. Return to oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Let stand for at least 5 minutes and then serve warm.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Roasted Turkey with Maple Cranberry Glaze...My Favorite!
Ingredients
Turkey:
8 tablespoons butter, softened
1 tablespoon House Seasoning, recipe follows
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
2 tablespoons minced shallots
2 tablespoons minced garlic cloves
1 (15-pound) turkey Stuffing, if desired
Glaze:
3 tablespoons butter
1 (12-ounce bag) cranberries
1/2 cup maple syrup
3/4 cup cranberry juice
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
3/4 cup apple cider
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Turkey:
Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a small mixing bowl combine the butter, House Seasoning, parsley, shallots, and garlic. Thoroughly rinse and dry the turkey. Tuck the wings underneath the body and place the turkey in a roasting pan. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey. Stuff, if desired.
Roast for 18 minutes per pound (including stuffing weight, if using). The turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (and deep into the stuffing) and registers 165 degrees F. and the juices run clear. Remove from the oven and loosely tent with foil. Let rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Glaze:
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer until the cranberries burst, about 8 to 10 minutes. Strain the mixture through a sieve and let cool. Reserve for turkey.
Yields 8-10 Servings Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Turkey:
8 tablespoons butter, softened
1 tablespoon House Seasoning, recipe follows
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
2 tablespoons minced shallots
2 tablespoons minced garlic cloves
1 (15-pound) turkey Stuffing, if desired
Glaze:
3 tablespoons butter
1 (12-ounce bag) cranberries
1/2 cup maple syrup
3/4 cup cranberry juice
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
3/4 cup apple cider
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Turkey:
Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a small mixing bowl combine the butter, House Seasoning, parsley, shallots, and garlic. Thoroughly rinse and dry the turkey. Tuck the wings underneath the body and place the turkey in a roasting pan. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey. Stuff, if desired.
Roast for 18 minutes per pound (including stuffing weight, if using). The turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (and deep into the stuffing) and registers 165 degrees F. and the juices run clear. Remove from the oven and loosely tent with foil. Let rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Glaze:
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer until the cranberries burst, about 8 to 10 minutes. Strain the mixture through a sieve and let cool. Reserve for turkey.
Yields 8-10 Servings Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Top 10 Turkey Tips from Food Network!
Whether you're tackling a Thanksgiving turkey for the first or hundredth time, our top 10 tips will ensure your big bird is the best it can be.
1. Thawing a frozen turkey requires patience. The safest method is to thaw turkey in the refrigerator. Be sure to plan ahead — it takes approximately 3 days for a 20 pound turkey to fully defrost.
2. For crisper skin, unwrap the turkey the day before roasting and leave it uncovered in the refrigerator overnight.
3. Cooking times will differ depending on whether your bird was purchased fresh or frozen. Plan on 20 minutes per pound in a 350 degree F oven for a defrosted turkey and 10 to 15 minutes per pound for fresh.
4. A turkey will cook more evenly if it is not densely stuffed. Consider adding flavor by loosely filling the cavity with aromatic vegetables — carrots, celery, onion or garlic work nicely — or by carefully tucking fresh herbs underneath the breast skin. For the stuffing lovers, cook the dressing in a casserole dish on the side.
5. For even roasting, truss your turkey.
6. Before roasting, coat the outside of the turkey with vegetable or olive oil, season with salt and pepper and tightly cover the breast with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning (it will be removed in step 7).
7. Don't be a peeping tom (no pun intended)! Once you get the turkey in the oven, resist the temptation to open the oven door and admire your handiwork. When the oven temperature fluctuates, you're only increasing the likelihood of a dry bird. About 45 minutes before you think the turkey is done, remove the foil from the breast to allow it to brown.
8. Remove the turkey from the oven when the deepest spot between the leg and the breast reads 180 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer. Check the internal temperature of the stuffing as well; it should be at least 165 degrees.
9. Tent the bird with foil and let rest for about 15 minutes before carving. If you need more time to make gravy, heat up side dishes, etc., you can let the turkey set for up to an hour without losing too much heat.
10. Remember to carve your turkey with a very sharp or electic knife.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/holidays-and-parties/top-10-turkey-tips/index.html
1. Thawing a frozen turkey requires patience. The safest method is to thaw turkey in the refrigerator. Be sure to plan ahead — it takes approximately 3 days for a 20 pound turkey to fully defrost.
2. For crisper skin, unwrap the turkey the day before roasting and leave it uncovered in the refrigerator overnight.
3. Cooking times will differ depending on whether your bird was purchased fresh or frozen. Plan on 20 minutes per pound in a 350 degree F oven for a defrosted turkey and 10 to 15 minutes per pound for fresh.
4. A turkey will cook more evenly if it is not densely stuffed. Consider adding flavor by loosely filling the cavity with aromatic vegetables — carrots, celery, onion or garlic work nicely — or by carefully tucking fresh herbs underneath the breast skin. For the stuffing lovers, cook the dressing in a casserole dish on the side.
5. For even roasting, truss your turkey.
6. Before roasting, coat the outside of the turkey with vegetable or olive oil, season with salt and pepper and tightly cover the breast with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning (it will be removed in step 7).
7. Don't be a peeping tom (no pun intended)! Once you get the turkey in the oven, resist the temptation to open the oven door and admire your handiwork. When the oven temperature fluctuates, you're only increasing the likelihood of a dry bird. About 45 minutes before you think the turkey is done, remove the foil from the breast to allow it to brown.
8. Remove the turkey from the oven when the deepest spot between the leg and the breast reads 180 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer. Check the internal temperature of the stuffing as well; it should be at least 165 degrees.
9. Tent the bird with foil and let rest for about 15 minutes before carving. If you need more time to make gravy, heat up side dishes, etc., you can let the turkey set for up to an hour without losing too much heat.
10. Remember to carve your turkey with a very sharp or electic knife.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/holidays-and-parties/top-10-turkey-tips/index.html
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Corny Cookies
These candy-topped treats are a blast for kids to help decorate for your feast -- or a Thanksgiving school party. You can use our sugar cookie recipe here or store-bought dough.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Vanilla frosting
Green fruit leather
M&M's or Reese's Pieces candies
Instructions
Using an electric beater, cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix well. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in the flour a little at a time until the ingredients are well combined. Chill the dough for several hours or overnight.
Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Divide the dough into 3 parts. Working on a floured surface with one part at a time, roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Using a knife, cut out corncob shapes about 4 inches long. Place the cookies on ungreased baking sheets and bake for 9 minutes or just until the edges brown. Let the cookies set on the sheets for about 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frost the cooled cookies. Next, use kitchen shears to cut husks from the fruit leather to fit the sides of each cookie. Press the husks in place atop the frosting, with the tips down a bit. Now fill in the middle with candy kernels gently pressed into place. Makes about 1 1/2 dozen cookies.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Turkey Tetrazzini, Great for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey!
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) package uncooked spaghetti 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups chicken broth 2 cups milk 1 2/3 cups grated Parmesan cheese 4 cups chopped cooked turkey
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente. Drain, and place in the prepared baking dish.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour. Mix in chicken broth and milk. Cook and stir until the mixture comes to a boil. Stir in about 1 1/3 cups Parmesan cheese, and remove from heat.
Mix chicken broth mixture and turkey with spaghetti. Top with remaining cheese. Bake 1 hour in the preheated oven, until surface is lightly browned.
1 (16 ounce) package uncooked spaghetti 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups chicken broth 2 cups milk 1 2/3 cups grated Parmesan cheese 4 cups chopped cooked turkey
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente. Drain, and place in the prepared baking dish.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour. Mix in chicken broth and milk. Cook and stir until the mixture comes to a boil. Stir in about 1 1/3 cups Parmesan cheese, and remove from heat.
Mix chicken broth mixture and turkey with spaghetti. Top with remaining cheese. Bake 1 hour in the preheated oven, until surface is lightly browned.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Warm Pumpkin Gingerbread
Ingredients:
3 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 4 eggs 2/3 cup water 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cloves 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans.
In a large mixing, combine sugar, oil and eggs; beat until smooth. Add water and beat until well blended. Stir in pumpkin, ginger, allspice cinnamon, and clove.
In medium bowl, combine flour, soda, salt, and baking powder. Add dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture and blend just until all ingredients are mixed. Divide batter between prepared pans.
Bake in preheated oven until toothpick comes out clean, about 1 hour.
3 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 4 eggs 2/3 cup water 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cloves 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans.
In a large mixing, combine sugar, oil and eggs; beat until smooth. Add water and beat until well blended. Stir in pumpkin, ginger, allspice cinnamon, and clove.
In medium bowl, combine flour, soda, salt, and baking powder. Add dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture and blend just until all ingredients are mixed. Divide batter between prepared pans.
Bake in preheated oven until toothpick comes out clean, about 1 hour.
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