Forking It!

Country Meatloaf

2010-10-19T20:15:00.002-04:00

OK I will admit. I am not a big fan of the meatloaf but this one is fan-freakin-tabulous and definitely work the try!Glaze• 1 c ketchup• 1/4 c packed brown sugar• 2 1/2 T cider vinegar• 1/2 t hot sauceMeatloaf• 2 t vegetable oil• 1 onion, chopped fine• 2 garlic cloves, minced• 2/3 c crushed saltine crackers • 1/3 c whole milk • 1 pound 90 percent lean ground beef (I used 97%)• 1 pound ground pork

Pure Vanilla Extract

2010-10-15T19:10:00.002-04:00

Have you started gathering gift ideas for the holidays? I like to gift vanilla to my cooking friends and now is the time to start a batch. Here is my recipe below.Split seven to eight good quality vanilla beans lengthwise down the center to expose the seeds, keeping the ends of the beans intact. Place beans in 750ml of high-quality vodka, rum or brandy. Store extract in a cool, dark place such as

Crockpot Stew

2010-10-04T19:37:00.003-04:00

TLDC this one is for you!Ingredients2 1/2 lbs. stew meat1/4 c. flour1 1/2 tsp. salt1/2 tsp. pepper2 c. beef brothOnion, diced1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce1 bay leaf1 tsp. paprika4 carrots, sliced3 potatoes, sliced1 stalk celery, slicedDirectionsPlace meat in crockpot, mix flour, salt and pepper and pour over meat. Stir and coat meat with flour. Add remaining ingredients and stir to mix well. Cook

Grilled Peaches

2010-09-06T10:26:00.002-04:00

OH Michael brought up a good recipe for today...Here is my recipe, what is yours?Ingredients:• 4 not-too-ripe peaches, washed, halved and pitted (too ripe and they fall apart on the grill)• Balsamic vinegar, to taste, about a tablespoon• Brown sugar or honey, to taste• Light olive oil• 4 leaves fresh basil, chopped, optionalDirectionsPreheat grillDrizzle peaches with balsamic vinegar and then

Sunday Substitutes - 1 Square Unsweeetended Chocolate

2010-05-30T09:56:00.000-04:00

3 Tbsp baking cocoa plus1 Tbsp shortening or margarine.

Icy Coffee Punch

2010-05-25T19:04:00.000-04:00

I scream, you scream, we all scream forAn adult ice cream/coffee beverage!Having couples over to cook out or just cook? This is a great end to your meal as the spring and summer nights start warming up..Ingredients:• 3 C boiling water• 4 T instant coffee granules• ½ C chocolate Syrup• ¼ C Coffee Flavored Liqueur (Optional)• 4 C Milk• ½ gallon vanilla ice cream• Garnish: chocolate syrupDirections

Sunday Substitutes - 1 Square Semi Sweet Chocolate

2010-05-23T09:54:00.001-04:00

1 oz unsweetened baking chocolate plus 1 Tbsp sugar.

Crock Pot Morning Casserole

2010-05-20T18:58:00.000-04:00

Got friends and family coming for the upcoming holiday? This is a great quick and easy dish for breakfast. Start it the night before, then you can sleep in and when everyone is up the next morning, Viola!Ingredients• 1 32 oz. bag frozen hash brown potatoes• 1 lb. of bacon diced, cooked and drained or 1 lb. cooked ham, cubed• 1 medium diced onion• 1 green bell pepper diced• 1 1/2 C. shredded

Balsamic Onions

2010-05-18T19:16:00.000-04:00

With Memorial day and grilling season soon upon us I want to add some of my outdoor cooking recipes. These are great as a garnish on top of a good steak or chop. Or served as a relish.Ingredients:• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar• 1/4 cup honey• 1 teaspoon chopped thyme• Salt and black pepper, to taste• 1 1/2 pounds red onions (about 2 large), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch disksDirections:1. In a small

Sunday Substitutes - Bouquet Garni

2010-05-16T10:53:00.001-04:00

Equal measures of thyme, parsley and crushed bay leaf; OR Equal measures of thyme, chervil and crushed bay leaf; OR Equal measures of basil, marjoram, and summer savory.

Outback Style Steak Seasoning

2010-05-13T19:55:00.000-04:00

The key to an Outback style steak is searing the steak on both sides, in a mega hot cast iron skillet. you can adapt this some what to your outdoor grills by starting the steaks over the hot coals just till the outside gets that seal, then move the steaks or, move the coals from under the steaks and let them finish cooking over indirect heat.Ingredients:2 teaspoons salt1 teaspoon paprika1/2

Pink Lemonade Cupcakes w Lemonade Buttercream Icing

2010-04-30T18:56:00.000-04:00

People either love these or ...If you like Pink Lemonade, you'll like these! They have the same tart but sweet taste.Ingredients:• 1 c. all-purpose flour• 1/2 tsp. baking powder• 1/4 tsp. baking soda• Pinch salt• 1/2 c. granulated sugar• 1/4 c. vegetable oil• 2 egg whites• 1/3 c. thawed frozen Pink Lemonade Concentrate• 1/4 c. buttermilk• 2 or more drops red food coloringPreheat oven to 350 F.

Tartar Sauce

2010-04-22T18:00:00.000-04:00

Ingredients:7 T mayonnaise2 T chopped sweet mixed picklesMix and stir well! easy enough!

Chocolate Biscotti

2010-04-14T17:42:00.000-04:00

Warm weather or cool weather, who doesn'!t like a good cup of joe and some biscotti. Fresh made is even better!Ingredients:• 2 1/4 cups flour • 1/2 cup cocoa powder • 1 2/3 cups sugar • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 3 large eggs • 3 large egg yolks • 1 tablespoon almond extract • 3/4 cup hazelnuts, skin on • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chipsDirections:Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a mixing bowl, stir

Baked Stuffed Shrimp

2010-04-12T17:56:00.000-04:00

Ingredients:4 slices white sandwich bread , torn into pieces1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup bottled clam juice (No clam juice? Substitute chicken stock)1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley 4 scallions , chopped fine2 garlic cloves minced2 teaspoons grated zest and 1 tablespoon juice from 1 lemon1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper Salt 1 1/4 pounds colossal shrimp, peeled and

Hot Poppers

2010-04-08T17:50:00.001-04:00

Ingredients: • 20 jalapeno peppers• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened• 1-1/2 cups (6 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese• 1 cup diced cooked chicken• 1/2 cup blue cheese salad dressing• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauceDirections:Cut peppers in half lengthwise, leaving stems intact; discard seeds. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Pipe or stuff into pepper halves.

Horse Goop

2010-04-06T18:20:00.000-04:00

This is one of my grandmothers recipes from the old days. She swore it worked all her life. It is to be used on aches and pains (not to be ingested!)Ingredients:• 1 oz. wintergreen• 1 oz Spirit of Camphor• 48 Bayer Aspirin• 1 bottle AlcoholDirections:Mix all together in a large glass container. After 24 hours, separate into smaller containers for easier use.

Hot Cross Buns

2010-04-01T18:05:00.000-04:00

Ingredients:• 3/4 cup milk• 1 package (1/4 oz.) active dry yeast• 1/2 teaspoon granulated white sugar• 3 1/2 - 4 cups all purpose flour• 1/4 cup light brown sugar• 1 teaspoon cinnamon• 1/4 teaspoon cloves• 1/4 teaspoon allspice• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg• 1/2 teaspoon salt• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature• 2 large eggs• 1/2 cup candied fruit and peel mix• 1/4 cup raisins or currantsEgg

Baked Ham with Chipotle-Pineapple Sauce

2010-03-31T18:49:00.000-04:00

Ingredients • 1 (5-7 lbs.) smoked, sliced ham Glaze: • 1 C. brown sugar, well packed • 1 can (10 oz.) crushed pineapple, un-drained • 2-3 chipotle chilies in adobo, seeded • 1-2 tbsp. adobo sauce (from your can of chipotles) • 1/4 tsp. nutmeg • 1/4 tsp. ground ginger • 2 tbsp. cornstarch • 2 tbsp. cold water • pinch saltDirections Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Place ham in a large baking

Dye Easter Eggs Naturally

2010-03-30T17:41:00.000-04:00

Ever wanted to try something new and fresh? Why not dye Easter eggs this year naturally? There are lots of things you should have around your kitchen or easily purchase at a grocery store. The colors that emerge might surprise you. Coffee grounds will produce a light chocolate color,tea bags a reddish brown. A gorgeous deep orange from onion skins and deep turquoise blue from red cabbage leaves

2010-03-29T17:59:00.000-04:00

Sorry to have been out for so long. After the holidays, the hub had a accident on his new job and had to have surgery. Things at the day job have been unsteady to say the least. I have missed blogging and promise to get back on track. Thanks for bearing with me and spread the word with your friends to visit my blog! New recipes coming this this week... I love sharing with you so, stay tuned!

Sunday Substitutes - 1 C Brown Sugar

2010-02-28T09:12:00.000-05:00

1 cup granulated sugar plus 2 Tbsp molasses or dark corn syrup.

Sunday Substitutes - 1/2 lb mushrooms

2010-02-21T09:11:00.000-05:00

4 oz. canned mushroom caps or 1 1/2 oz dried mushrooms.

Sunday Substitutes - Cake Flour

2010-02-14T09:09:00.000-05:00

1 cup minus 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour.

Mexican 7 Layer Dip

2010-02-11T19:28:00.002-05:00

Ingredients• 9 oz. can bean dip • 1/4 C picante sauce • 1 8 oz container refrigerated guacamole • 1 8 oz carton dairy sour cream • 1 C shredded cheddar or taco cheese • 1/4 C sliced green onion (about 2) • 2 T sliced pitted ripe olives • 2/3 C chopped tomato (1 medium) Directions1. Combine bean dip and picante sauce; spread into a rectangle dish (about 9X5) making a layer about 14 inch

Sunday Substitutes - Capers

2010-02-07T07:07:00.000-05:00

1 Tbsp chopped green olives.

Crockpot Apple Butter

2010-02-02T18:47:00.000-05:00

Makes about 9 - 10 pintsIngredients:• 9 quarts of Applesauce, fresh or canned • 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon ground cloves • 1/2 teaspoon of allspice • 4 cups sugar, Splenda or frozen concentrated grape juice. Directions: Fill the crock pot to within an inch of full with applesauce. You will add the remaining applesauce later. Add the cinnamon, cloves, allspice and 2 cups of

Sunday Substitutes - Allspice

2010-01-31T09:06:00.002-05:00

1 tsp. cinnamon plus 1/8 tsp. ground cloves.

Brunswick Stew

2010-01-28T11:09:00.000-05:00

Is it from Brunswick, Georgia, or Brunswick County in southern Virginia? Who cares! It's GREAT eating!This recipe is a family recipe, handed down. Oh, and they are not from Brunswick, GA or Brunswick Co., VA....Ingredients• 5 to 6 lbs. of chicken • ½ to 1 lb. pork – large diced • 1 lb. ground chuck or round• 1/3 c warm water• 2 qt. drained or 40 oz. frozen lima beans• 2 #2 cans crushed

Thousand Island dressing

2010-01-26T20:01:00.000-05:00

This recipe (minus the onions and egg) was also the "secret sauce" on the burgers they made. No it isn't any chain burger joint you have heard of, but one I worked at during high school. Great salad dressing, great on burgers!1 c. mayonnaise1/3 c. ketchup1/4 c. pickle relishCan also add:1 tbsp. chopped onion1 hard cooked egg, chopped

Baked Ziti

2010-01-06T18:30:00.001-05:00

From the Italian side of the family - Fuhgetaboutit!Cheese MixIngredients:• 2 lb Ricotta• 1 lb Mozzarella (grated)• 2 t grated Parmesan or Romano cheese• 3 eggs• 2 t crushed parsley• Salt and pepper to tasteDirectionsPreheat oven to 350.When Ziti is cooked put a small amount of sauce in baking pan to cover the bottom then add half of the cooked Ziti. Spoon cheese mix over Ziti, being generous.

Sopaipillas

2010-01-04T17:31:00.000-05:00

Here's a recipe from my Texas roots. I heart me some true Mexican food and who can't resist a little something sweet? INGREDIENTS:3 c flour 3 t baking powder2 t salt1 T shorteningHoney (optional)Sift flour, baking powder and salt. Cut in shortening then add lukewarm water to make a soft dough. Let rise 1 hour. Roll out ¼ to ½ inch thick. Cut squares about 3 inches. Fry dough. They should puff in

Katsup

2010-01-03T20:57:00.001-05:00

1 cup of tomato sauce 1 1/4 cups brown sugar2 tbs. vinegar1/4 tsp. cinnamon pinch of ground cloves and allspice.

Chocolate Tea Cookies

2009-12-30T20:10:00.000-05:00

So here is one for the sugar-free folks. I myself like sugar but my stepmom is diabetic so this one is for her.INGREDIENTS:• 1/4 cup shortening• 3 tablespoons sugar substitute with• aspartame (such as Equal packets)• 1 egg• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract• 2 tablespoons skim milk• 1 1/4 cups cake flour• 1 (1 ounce) square unsweetened chocolate, melted DIRECTIONS:Cream shortening. Add sugar

Sunday Substitutes - Tomato Paste (1/2 cup)

2009-12-27T08:26:00.001-05:00

1 cup tomato sauce cooked uncovered till reduced to l/2 cup.

Cranberry Vinaigrette

2009-12-25T12:57:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas to everyone! I hope you and yours are having a wonderful Christmas!Ingredients:• ¼ C fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, thaw cranberries first)• 2 T balsamic Vinegar• 2 T sherry Vinegar (if you can’t find sherry vinegar, can substitute red wine or rice vinegar)• 1 T sugar• 1 t Dijon Mustard• ¼ t dried rosemary• 1 c canola oil• ¼ t salt• ¼ t fresh ground pepperDirections:

Christmas Salad

2009-12-24T11:55:00.002-05:00

Today is the daythe hubs fam comes over and we get to see the grandkids! What are your family traditions?Ingredients:• 1 small red onion, chopped• 1 T canola Oil• 1 (5 oz.) bag Spring Mix lettuces• 1 t Kosher salt• 1 t fresh ground pepper• ½ c walnuts – toasted• 1 red pear, cored and sliced• 1 green pear – cored and sliced• ½ c Gorgonzola Cheese• Garnish with pomegranate seeds if

Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

2009-12-23T12:54:00.002-05:00

Today I am off and doing some prep work for the big meal on Friday.... that and spending time with my son who is over from Texas.Ingredients:• 6 medium sweet potatoes, washed and skins scrubbed• ¼ c firmly packed light brown sugar• ¼ c butter- melted• 4 oz. cream cheese – softened• 1 t vanilla extract• ½ t ground cinnamon• ¼ t ground nutmeg• ¼ t salt• 18 jumbo marshmallowsDirections:Preheat your

Green Beans with Caramelized Onions and Bacon

2009-12-22T17:46:00.001-05:00

Ingredients:• 3 lbs fresh green beans - trimmed• 6 slices of bacon• 2 large sweet onions - chopped• 2 T sugar• 2 T balsamic vinegar• 1 t black pepperDirections:In a large saucepan, cook beans in boiling water until tender (about 10 to 12 minutes). Drain and set aside. (Beans can be precooked and refrigerated overnight if desired.) Also this year I am using fresh frozen green beans.Next, in a

Warm Citrus Cider

2009-12-21T11:52:00.000-05:00

This one (and the Carrot Cake) is for my son.Ingredients: 1 gal. apple cider2 cups orange juice1/2 cup lemon juice1 orange, sliced1 lemon, sliced1 1/2 teaspoons whole cloves3 cinnamon sticksGarnish: apple slicesDirections:Bring apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, orange slices, lemon slices, cloves, and cinnamon sticks to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 10 minutes. Discard solids. Garnish each

Brandied Cranberries

2009-12-20T17:36:00.001-05:00

So some of my friends will say, "There she goes, using liquor in a recipe again!", and I say "Why not!", cooking with the spirits adds great flavor to many recipes. And who doesn't enjoy a nice glass of wine or brandy on occasion?Ingredients:• bag (12 oz.) fresh or thawed frozen cranberries • 1 1/2 cups sugar • 1/3 to 1/2 cup brandy • tablespoons finely shredded orange zest Directions:Preheat

Sunday Substitutes - 1 Small Onion

2009-12-20T07:23:00.000-05:00

1 tbs. instant minced or 1 tsp. onion powder.

Bacon - Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts

2009-12-19T11:30:00.002-05:00

Brussels Sprouts aren't for everyone, but I heart them! This recipe tones down the sprouts strong flavor just a bit so that most everyone likes them!Ingredients:• 4 bacon slices• 1 (14-oz.) can chicken broth• 1 tablespoon brown sugar• 1 teaspoon salt• 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halvedDirections:Cook bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat 10 minutes or until crisp. Remove bacon,

Herb Potato Rolls

2009-12-17T18:37:00.001-05:00

Ingredients: 5 to 5-1/2 cups all-purpose flour1 cup mashed potato flakes2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast1 tablespoon sugar1 tablespoon minced chives2 teaspoons salt2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley2 cups milk1/2

Our Christmas Menu

2009-12-16T18:56:00.005-05:00

Warm Citrus CiderChristmas Salad with Cranberry VinaigretteRoasted Turkey with Nannies Cornbread StuffingTwice baked Sweet PotatoesBacon - Brown Sugar Brussels SproutsGreen Beans with Caramelized OnionsBrandied CranberriesHerb Potato RollsThen ending with:3 Layer Carrot Cake with Apricot Mousse filling and Cream Cheese Icing

Mom’s Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette

2009-12-14T20:36:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:• ½ C Balsamic Vinegar• 2 t Honey• 1 t Dijon Mustard• 4 t Cold Water• 6-8 t Olive Oil• ¼ t each of Salt and Pepper• (Optional) ¼ to ½ t herbs such as dill or basil Directions:Warm vinegar and honey in microwave for 20 seconds or more until honey dissolves in vinegar. Add remaining ingredients and whisk well. Shake vigorously after pouring into a bottle and chill before serving.

Sunday Substitutes - 10 Mini Marshmallows

2009-12-13T09:30:00.001-05:00

I Large Marshmellow

Sunday Substitutes - Herbs, chopped, fresh

2009-12-06T08:16:00.000-05:00

3/4 to 1 tsp dried herbs

Beer pancakes

2009-12-01T18:41:00.000-05:00

I have been making these for quite a while. The beer adds to the "fluffiness" of these pancakes and you can't taste the beer. Great on a relaxing Sunday Morning! This time I adapted the recipe to add pumpkin...First the basic recipe...Ingredients:• 2 C Bisquick• 2 T Sugar• 1/2 t Cinnamon• dash of Nutmeg• 5 beaten eggs• 1/2 C Beer• 2 T OilIf you want to make them pumpkin style add:• 3 T pumpkin• 1

Sunday Substitutes - 1 C Sour Cream

2009-11-29T10:54:00.000-05:00

1 cup plain yogurt.

Pumpkin Butter

2009-11-25T15:51:00.003-05:00

November Guest Cook is Tonia from NC and she is sharing with us her Pumpkin Butter recipe, which she so kindly prepared and brought for us at work today. It was great!I love the holidays!• 4 cups pumpkin or (2 cans)• 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon• Dash of salt• ¼ teaspoon cloves• 1 box of brown sugarCook over medium heat until the color is dark brown (as apple butter). I normally cook this in a slow

Sunday Substitutes - 1 C Red Wine

2009-11-22T09:52:00.001-05:00

I have no comment on why I would EVER be out of red wine....1 cup apple cider or beef broth.

Stew and Biscuits

2009-11-19T20:02:00.000-05:00

This is another one from the family vault (box) of recipes. I haven't had this in a while but it is a great comfort dish!Ingredients:• 2 lbs Stew Beef• 2 cans tomato sauce• 1 large Onion – sliced• 1 C diced celery• 4 to 6 medium potatoes• 4 medium carrots• 1 t salt• 1 C water• 1 C peas• ½ recipe biscuit dough (using tomato sauce as liquid)Directions:Preheat oven to 375. Brown meat in a greased 2

Herb and Almond Crusted Lingcod

2009-11-17T20:26:00.000-05:00

You may or may not have noticed my profile pic and my "uh hum" great impression of my catch of the day, Mr. Lingcod. We had taken a trip to Alaska (SUCH a great place) and did a little deep sea fishing. We caught Salmon, King Salmon, red snapper and lingcod. Catching all these fish was AWESOME, but the Lingcod were especially thrilling! They look a bit like a wet prehistoric lion when they start

Sunday Substitutes - 1 Med Clove Garlic

2009-11-15T08:51:00.000-05:00

1/8 tsp garlic powder or 1/4 tsp instant minced garlic or 1/2 tsp garlic salt.

Spaghetti Sauce

2009-11-11T20:24:00.002-05:00

My mother used to spend all day making spaghetti sauce. She would start it that morning, (after a cup of joe and a smoke) and simmered it for hours. The whole house would smell wonderful and we couldn't wait to eat it. This recipe has been added to over the years and makes the best sauce ever!REVIEW INGREDIENTSIngredients –2 Quarts Diced Tomatoes1 Quart Whole Tomatoes2 Quart Tomato Sauce1 Quart

Mulled Wine

2009-11-10T18:17:00.001-05:00

I love November and December, it's time for food, fun, family, and warm beverages!Makes: 12 (6-ounce) servingsIngredients:• 2 whole cardamom pods• 16 whole cloves• 3 inches stick cinnamon, broken• 2 750-milliliter bottles dry red wine• 2 cups water• 1 cup light corn syrup• 2 oranges, halved• Orange slices, halved (optional)• Cinnamon sticks (optional)Directions:1. For spice bag, cut a

Sunday Substitutes - 1 C All Purpose Flour

2009-11-08T07:55:00.000-05:00

1 cup plus 2 Tbsp of cake flour.

2009-11-06T21:07:00.002-05:00

Susan at Thoughts from over the rainbow is having a cool giveaway. I am interested in doing one of these so let's all go over and enter and see how it works!

Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

2009-11-05T20:38:00.000-05:00

Ingedients:• 1 C Olive Oil• ½ C balsamic Vinegar• 3 to 5 cloves of garlic – minced• 3 T Parmesan Cheese – grated• Salt and Pepper to tasteDirections:Whisk together vinegar, garlic and cheese. Gradually add the olive oi. Salt and pepper to task. Chill. Shake well at serving time.Note: I find that if you put the dressing in a blender with an ice cube and whirl until the cube is incorporated that

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

2009-11-03T18:16:00.001-05:00

Ingredients:• 1 Coffee Mug• 4 tablespoons flour (that's plain flour, not self-rising)• 4 tablespoons sugar• 2 tablespoons baking cocoa• 1 egg• 3 tablespoons milk• 3 tablespoons oil• 3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)• Small splash of vanillaDirections:Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well . Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate

Sunday Substitutes - Baking Powder

2009-11-01T07:39:00.003-05:00

I am forever out of something, how about you?1 tsp baking soda plus 1/2 tsp cream of tartar.

Sour Cream Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

2009-10-29T19:13:00.000-04:00

This is a recipe from my husbands family and it has been passed down for a few generations. The outside is nice and crusty with a great texture to the pound cake.Ingredients• 3 C Sugar (I substituted 3 C Splenda and 1 1/2 t baking soda this time)• 2 sticks of butter - softened• ½ C Shortening• 5 Eggs• 3 C Cake Flour• ½ t Baking Powder• ¼ C Milk• 1 C Sour Cream• 1 t Vanilla• 1 t Lemon Flavoring (

Things I can't live with out - Moms pyrex bowl set

2009-10-26T19:28:00.003-04:00

We've all seen them and or had them. They are just to handy and get used regularly. I actually have access to two sets. The ones pictured and another set that are in orange tones. The other set where my grandmothers and are packed to send home with my son...The green ones are my husbands moms and will be M's or A's... they can figure that one out one day... LOL

Sunday Substitutes - Pumpkin Pie Spice

2009-10-25T07:38:00.001-04:00

In a pinch?4 parts cinnamon, 2 parts ginger, 1 part nutmeg, 1 part allspice and dash of cloves.

Wedding Cookies

2009-10-22T18:22:00.000-04:00

These are dangerous!Ingredients:• 1 C butter, softened• ½ C sugar• 2 t vanilla• 2 C all purpose flour• ½ t salt• 2 C finely chopped pecans• Confectioners’ sugar (in a bowl)Directions:Preheat oven to 350.Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. I skip this step and use parchment paper. In a medium bowl, beat butter and sugar at medium speed with a mixer until creamy, then add vanilla and

White Chili

2009-10-20T18:25:00.000-04:00

There is a cool front coming through NC now and lowering the temperatures. When that happens, I don't know about you, but I think about soups and stews. This is a great recipe and just enough heat!Ingredients:• 2 medium onions - diced• 1 T olive oil• 2 (4.5 oz) cans green chilies, un-drained• 2 cloves garlic – minced• 2 t ground cumin• 1 ½ t dried oregano• Dash of red pepper• 5 ½ cups chicken

Substitute Sunday

2009-10-18T17:55:00.001-04:00

Ever need buttermilk but not have any on hand? Except at the holidays, I never do. To use a substitute, add 1T vinegar OR 1T lemon juice to 1C milk and let set 5 minutes. It works wonders!

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

2009-10-15T18:19:00.000-04:00

I love fresh eggs! Note the lovely brown color!Ingredients:• ½ C Butter• 1 ¼ C Sugar• 2 t Vanilla• 2 eggs• 2 oz unsweetened Chocolate, melted and cooled• 2 C All Purpose Flour• 2 t baking powder• ½ t salt• 2 T milk• ½ C chopped pecans or other nuts (Optional)• Confectioners’ SugarDirections:Preheat oven to 350.In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy; add vanilla then

Red Beans and Rice

2009-10-13T19:11:00.001-04:00

So I have no pics for this one as I haven't made it since last winter but these are easy and quick!Ingredients• ½ lb. Bacon• 1 C Minced Onions• 2 C cooked Red Beans• 1 small bay leaf• 2 C Cooked RiceDice and cook bacon in saucepan until light brown. Pour off fat; add onions and cook till bacon is brown. Add cooked red beans and bay leaf, cover pot and simmer for 30 minutes adding water if needed

The Weekend

2009-10-11T20:05:00.003-04:00

Had a great weekend... My sister was down so I got to use her as a Guinea pig.. I converted an old family recipe for pound cake to incorporate Splenda instead of sugar, made home made apple butter and created a new pumpkin pancake recipe all that I will be posting soon! Hope everyone had a great weekend also!

Pumpkin Coconut Bread or Muffins

2009-10-08T17:46:00.002-04:00

INGREDIENTS:2 eggs, beaten 1 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 package (3 1/2oz) instant coconut cream pudding mix 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 cup pumpkin, canned or fresh cooked and mashed 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnutsPREPARATION:

Nannies’ Casserole

2009-10-05T18:28:00.003-04:00

disclaimer: coffee not included, that's the hub aggravating me!Cool weather is starting to move into NC and gets the taste buds all fired up for soups, stews and casseroles. This one is an oldie but goody from my childhood and Nannie's house..Ingredients:• 1 medium onion - diced• 1 green pepper – diced• 1 T butter• 1 ½ lbs ground round• 1 t Seasoning Salt• ½ t pepper• 1 t sugar• 3 small cloves

Baked Onions Au Gratin

2009-10-01T17:23:00.004-04:00

After baking the Carrot Cake - I lad leftover heavy cream...I hate to waste anything so here is a recipe using part of that cream. I am making a tomato soup with the rest...Ingredients:• 8 medium yellow onions, peeled and sliced (let's hear it for a mandolin slicer!)• 2 tablespoons butter • 1/4 cup dry sherry or wine (I used Pinot Grigio... personal choice! ;-)) • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg • salt and

Flavorful Pot Roast

2009-09-29T18:30:00.004-04:00

Guest Cook: Today's guest cook is Cathy Deaton from a great small town in North Carolina. Cathy is sharing with us a recipe she loves for Pot Roast.Ingredients:• 2 boneless beef chuck roasts (2.5 lbs each)• 1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix• 1 envelope Italian salad dressing mix• 1 envelope brown gravy mix• ½ C waterDirections:Place chuck roasts in an 5 quart slow cooker. In a small bowl,

Habanero Peppers

2009-09-28T20:08:00.002-04:00

So friend at work gave me some Habanero Peppers - anyone have any recipes?

Oven Baked Apple Chips

2009-09-27T18:11:00.000-04:00

Tart, firm apples such as Granny Smiths work best in this recipe. INGREDIENTS:• 1 cup sugar• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon• 1 teaspoon ground ginger• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg• 2 Granny Smith applesDIRECTIONS:Heat oven to 225 to 250 degrees. In a large bowl, combine sugar and spices. Slice apples horizontally with a mandolin slicer, very thinly (1/8 inch thick). Remove seeds. Toss apple slices

Blog Buttons

2009-09-26T14:25:00.005-04:00

I love a Slow Rainy Day!I have been wanting to make a blog button for this site with code so others can grab it and let me cook with them!Here's my button picI LOVE dishes!

Cream Cheese Icing

2009-09-24T17:44:00.009-04:00

And now the finale to our Carrot Cake!Frosting: • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature • 1 stick salted butter, room temperature• 1 (16-ounce) box powdered sugar• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/2 cup chopped pecans DirectionsAdd all ingredients, except nuts, into a medium bowl and beat until fluffy using a hand mixer. Stir in the nuts or garnish the top of the cake with nuts. Ice

Apricot Mousse Filling

2009-09-23T17:43:00.006-04:00

Filling:• 1 cup of heavy whipping cream• 1 cup of milk• 1 large package of jello instant vanilla pudding• 8 to 9oz Apricot PreservesDirectionsIn Medium bowl, mix all ingredients well until smooth consistency. I used my hand mixer and beat for about 3 minutes or until it looks like mousse.Spread filling on first and second layer of cake.Tomorrow the Cream Cheese Icing then we are ready to eat!This

3 Layer Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Apricot Mousse Filling

2009-09-22T17:58:00.013-04:00

Today we'll start with the cake. This is a really old recipe for carrot cake and has a slightly different texture than some of the more current versions. But the taste is extraordinary!Ingredients: • 2 cups all-purpose flour• 2 cups sugar • 2 teaspoons baking soda• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon• 1 teaspoon salt • 4 eggs • 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil• 3 cups grated carrots • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans,

Texas Pecan Pie

2009-09-19T11:12:00.006-04:00

Crust:• 1 1/3 C All Purpose Flour• ½ t Salt• 2/3 C Shortening• 3 T WaterDirections:Mix flour and salt together; add shortening and cut into flour with fork or pastry blender. Add water and mix gently with fork in a stirring motion. Gather pastry into a ball and place in the pie plate. With the tips of your fingers, spread pastry along the bottom and sides of pie plate, shaping the edge, either

German Slaw

2009-09-17T18:07:00.000-04:00

My husbands ancestry is German so this recipe comes out of his families vault. Ingredients• 3 lb. cabbage• 4 oz. jar of chopped Pimentos• ½ C Chopped Green Pepper• ½ C Chopped Onion• ¾ C Sugar• 1 t saltMix ingredients and let set 1 hour. Drain off any accumulated juice and pour dressing over the vegetable mix. Stir dressing in until well blended and refrigerate for at least 1 day before serving.

Macaroon Cookies

2009-09-15T18:20:00.001-04:00

I baked my husband a chocolate pie this weekend and it called for 4 egg yolks. I could not waste the whites so I pulled out a recipe I had for Macaroons. These where almost better than the pie! Light as air and oh so delectable!Ingredients• 2 egg whites room temperature• 1 t Vanilla• Pinch of salt• Less that 1/8 t Cream of Tartar• 2/3 C Sugar• 1 1/3 C Flaked CoconutDirectionsPreheat oven to 325.

Cloud Biscuits

2009-09-12T12:32:00.000-04:00

These are pretty good and easy to make! It doesn't take a lot of time to serve homemade!Ingredients2 c flour4 t baking powder¼ t salt1 T sugar½ c veg. shortening1 egg2/3 c milkDirectionsPreheat oven to 450. In a large bowl, mix dry ingredients until blended. In a separate ln a separate bowl, cut shortening until it looks like a cornmeal. Beat in egg and add milk. Add to the dry mix and blend.

Worcestershire Butter Sauce

2009-09-10T19:47:00.001-04:00

Ingredients:• ½ C butter• 1T chopped parsley• 2 T lemon juice• 1 ½ t Worcestershire• 1/8 t saltDirectionsIn a small saucepan, melt butter. Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat thoroughly. Serve over fish or vegetables.

Pickled Okra

2009-09-08T18:17:00.003-04:00

Who cans? I do! This is my grandmothers recipe heated up a bit...Ingredients• 3 ½ lbs Okra – (no longer than 3 in length) • 1 pt distilled white vinegar• 1 qt water• ½ c salt• 6 cloves garlic - peeled• 2 t dill seed• 3 t mustard seeds• 1 ½ t peppercorns • 6 pint canning jars, lids and ringsAdditional options• 6 dried red Chile peppers • Fresh Dill sprigs (in place of the dill seeds)Directions+/-

Mothers Chili

2009-09-03T19:43:00.000-04:00

A lot of my friends are good cooks. One of my co workers always impresses with this Chili recipe that was her mothers. It isn't as spicy as Texas Chili but the taste is quite yummy! Props to Andie P!INGREDIENTS:2 lbs. Hamburger½ lb. Sausage w/sage2 sm. Onions (chopped)½ cup ketchup2 Tbls. Chili powder1 tsp. PaprikaBrown hamburger and sausage. Add all but onions and bring to boil.Add onions and 1

Lowery's Season Salt

2009-08-31T18:30:00.002-04:00

It is not required by any means but it always helps to have humor in the kitchen! When the family gets together my kids love telling the story of when I re-inacted a Lowery Season Salt commercial. Lowery’s used to come in a glass container and in the 80’s they switched to plastic. The Lowery commercial touted the amazing ability of the new container to bounce on the floor and not break. The girls

30 Minute Yeast Rolls

2009-08-30T19:10:00.000-04:00

You know in today's fast paced society, home cooking seems to have gone a wee bit to the wayside. My grandmother raised me and every meal, breakfast. lunch and dinner, were all full course meals with very little from a can, frozen (that wasn't garden grown) or microwaved. I sometimes wished I had that time now but as I don't, I try to make at least one thing from scratch when we do sit down to a

Seafood Jambalaya

2009-08-27T18:42:00.000-04:00

Louisiana rates up there as one of the most interesting places I have lived in my life. The people, the places and the cooking is to die for! This is a recipe I learned to make while living there and is one of my favorites. Along with boiled crawfish, crawfish enchiladas and crawfish pie. Blackened Alligator tail isn't to shabby either!INGREDIENTS:3 lbs. Shrimp – peeled1 lb. Crabmeat1 doz.

Green Bean Salad

2009-08-24T19:55:00.001-04:00

This is out of my husbands family recipes. It is easy, so easy my sister could make it and impress her co-workers at the next pot luck they have!INGREDIENTS:1 can French cut green beans - drained1 can green peas - drained1 large onion – cut in rings1 bell pepper - de-seeded and sliced in thin slices½ c celery½ c sugar½ c vinegar1/3 c oil½ t saltMix vegetables together. In a separate container mix

Sour Cream Cookies

2009-08-21T11:17:00.002-04:00

These I have been making since I was a little girl. They are a great cookie, not super sweet, makes a large quantity and stores well! Great for gifting also!Ingredients• 1 C Shortening• 2 C Sugar• 3 Eggs – beaten• 1 t Vanilla• 1 C Sour Cream• 5 C Flour• 3 t Baking Powder• 1 t Salt• ½ t Baking Soda• 1 ½ C Walnuts – choppedPreheat oven to 350In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugar; then add in

Things I can't live without!

2009-08-18T19:01:00.000-04:00

This goes on the list of things I can't live without. I purchased mine from Pampered Chef but a good garlic press can be found at a good cooking store. It's worth the money honey! Kitchenware:NewGarlic Press#2576 $16.00 I also use mine for mincing peppers when making sauces...Great for ginger, too!

3 Cheese Squash Casserole

2009-08-15T13:50:00.006-04:00

I love cheese! I love cheese about as much as I love a great dessert. That's a lot! This is a great recipe for this time of year as summer squash is in abundance.Ingredients1 T vegetable oil6 medium yellow summer squash, thinly sliced1 large Vidalia onion, thinly sliced1 T butter1/2 c grated Parmesan1/2 c grated Swiss Cheese 1 c shredded sharp Cheddar1/2 c sour creamSalt and freshly ground black

Two Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake with Bourbon Butter Sauce

2009-08-12T18:40:00.011-04:00

This is one of my favorite cheesecakes. It doesn't have to much pumpkin to be only for the fall or winter holidays and a shot of Bourbon is always good for the soul. The sauce is also great on ice cream!Crust1/4 c butter, melted 3/4 c graham cracker crumbs 1/2 c crispy crushed gingersnaps 1 T brown sugar 1 t cinnamonFilling24 ounces cream cheese – softened1 ¼ c sugar1c heavy cream1 t vanilla1 c

Getting Ready for Cheesecake

2009-08-12T18:09:00.005-04:00

The next recipe I want to share this week is a Cheesecake recipe. In preparation for that, I first wanted to share tips for making a cheesecakes that I learned from my grandmother. We'll call her Nannie. Cause that is what we called her....Dental floss can be used for cutting cheesecakes. It makes nice, smooth cuts and no “build up” like you get on a knife.Bake cheesecakes, especially large ones,

Mocha Coffee

2009-08-09T16:58:00.012-04:00

I love to cook! It's as simple as that. I love making tasty things that make people's mouths smile. So to start, I am sharing with you a simple but tasty coffee drink. I like Mocha Coffee but times being what they are, I can't always afford to buy one at the local Coffee house. If you like Mocha, you'll love the ease of this recipe:MOCHA COFFEEIngredients 1 cup hot brewed STRONG coffee 1