tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42619562746593269302024-03-13T10:46:59.749-04:00The Days Are Just Packed!--- proclaimeth Kitchen Queen VictoriaViccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.comBlogger317125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-10421515967513380352012-02-10T20:54:00.000-05:002012-02-10T21:11:33.771-05:00Chicken Tortilla Soup<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal">My friend Jenni makes an <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">excellent</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>tortilla soup.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For the last 2 years, she has brought it to our Christmas Baking Extravaganza for lunch, and Jack and I just love it.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">A few weeks ago we ate at a Mexican restaurant and, being a rather blustery day, I ordered the tortilla soup.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It was good, but not great, and the next day I made a pot of Jenni’s soup.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>No comparison.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Now, the way it was in the restaurant may have been the traditional Mexican type (thin broth and a few shreds of chicken ladled over fried tortilla strips), but it was not what we like.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It was not Tortilla Soup, Jenni-style!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">She gave me permission to post her recipe and here it is.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The tortillas sautéed at the beginning and cooked with the soup makes it thick and hearty, there is a perfect balance of cumin and chili powder in the broth, and don’t skimp on the garnishes!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I used thawed frozen roasted corn kernels (from Trader Joe’s).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This is definitely a main-dish soup, thick and hearty and very flavorful.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Serve with cornbread, if desired.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in">* Exported from MasterCook *</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Chicken Tortilla Soup</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in">Recipe By: Jenni</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in">Servings : 6<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Amount<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Measure<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in">--------<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>------------<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>--------------------------------</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>18<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cooked chicken breast halves -- shredded</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>3<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>olive oil -- (light or extra light)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>8<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>corn tortillas<span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>6<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>medium<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>garlic cloves -- minced</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>medium<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>onion -- chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>28<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>canned diced tomato -- undrained</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>6<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cups<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>low-sodium chicken broth</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cup<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>chopped cilantro</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ground cumin</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoon<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>chili powder</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>teaspoon<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ground chipotle pepper -- if desired</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>3<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>bay leaves</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>9<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cooked black beans -- (about 1- 14 ounce can, drained and rinsed)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cup<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>corn kernels -- thawed, if frozen</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>3<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>light sour cream</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>skim milk</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in 2.5in"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Cook chicken breasts and shred, if not already done.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add tortillas, garlic, and onion.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Sauté for 2-3 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Stir in tomatoes and chicken stock and bring to a boil.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add cilantro, cumin, chili powder, chipotle (if desired), and bay leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Turn down the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add black beans and corn.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Cook for an additional 10 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Meanwhile, mix sour cream and milk in a small bowl.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Ladle into bowls.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Drizzle with the sour cream mixture, sprinkle with cilantro, and add other toppings as desired (diced avocado, shredded Monterey Jack or crumbled queso fresco, baked tortilla chips, etc.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 425 Calories (kcal); 16g Total Fat; (30% calories from fat); 38g Protein; 44g Carbohydrate; 54mg Cholesterol; 537mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 2 Grain(Starch); 4 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">NOTES : This is a thick, hearty tortilla soup which, although great on its own, just shines with the addition of toppings ( a drizzle of sour cream thickened with milk, which imitates the Mexican "crema" is included in the recipe, but more toppings, including avocado, cheese, baked tortilla chips, are great).</p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-22963804377519670502012-01-23T12:22:00.002-05:002012-01-23T12:38:42.107-05:00Crockpot Chicken Rendang<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">For the last 28 years we have lived here at the farm I have stoically dealt with no heat in my kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Well, except for in the months of June through September when, due to the kitchen’s western exposure, there was plenty of radiant heat in the late afternoons…</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">But this kitchen, built sometime in the early 1960’s as an addition, is on a concrete slab and has no source of heat other than what wafts through the 28” door opening into the dining room <u>and</u> the pilot lights on my stove.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It is a massive range, a commercial one with 6 burners, two ovens, a raised griddle and broiler underneath, and there are 11 pilots going at all times (except during the months of June through September when I only turn on the gas and light the pilots to make a meal).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The bit of warmth from these pilot lights are, I am sure, what keeps my water lines under the sink from freezing during these single-digit nights.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">This will soon end.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">We are planning to have another addition constructed on the main level, this one a laundry room extension and a new, large bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>While a wall is being taken out, the commercial stove will be (somehow) carried out of the kitchen through this large opening.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I like the stove, it has served me well for 20-some years, but I now want a smaller range and more cabinets and counter space. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Also, the new stove will feature a convection oven, which will make the annual Christmas baking extravaganza much less frustrating.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A commercial stove such as mine is great for cooking and roasting, but not so much for baking cookies and pastries.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am so excited, and am having great fun looking at stove options (and shower units, whirlpools, lighting, etc.).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And another very exciting part of this renovation is that we will finally be able to add heat to the kitchen. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Imagine!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I will soon be able to make breakfast in the winter without my hands being freezing cold!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Of course, that’s if the contractor returns.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He was supposed to call <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">last</i> Monday about an imminent start date.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’m not too worried, though, since he has disappeared before then reappeared eventually.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At least he <u>does</u> return, unlike others we have hired in the past.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>;)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">There will probably be a few days where I will be without a stove and I am prepared to make do with the microwave, toaster oven, and crockpot.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’ve never used my slow cooker much.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In fact, I had originally purchased it to anneal glass beads when I went through a glass-bead-making phase.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But I started to actually use it occasionally last year and found that it is very handy to have.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And I like being able to put ingredients in it, go and get involved in a project, then return to the kitchen hours later to find dinner already made.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">The following is a recipe which I developed last week, after talking at length with a friend about a new Thai restaurant and realizing that our conversation had started a craving for something with a flavorful sauce of coconut milk, lime, lemongrass, and spice.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">“Randang” is a Malaysian dish which is meat or fish slow-cooked in coconut milk and spices.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I used chicken breasts (no big surprise, there) and added vegetables as well.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Honestly, for a first effort, I was surprised at how well it turned out and that’s why I am posting the recipe.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There was a lot of sauce, so next time I may use only about 2/3 of the can of coconut milk. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Or maybe not since I now have a delicious sauce to use for stir-fried shrimp later this week.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QwU0nNb2N0/Tx2Z8aTUS1I/AAAAAAAABXY/HM_u6MwBuBE/s1600/Randang%2BChicken.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QwU0nNb2N0/Tx2Z8aTUS1I/AAAAAAAABXY/HM_u6MwBuBE/s320/Randang%2BChicken.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700881966452460370" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Crockpot Chicken Rendang</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Recipe By: Vicci</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Servings<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>: 6<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Amount<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Measure<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in">--------<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>------------<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>--------------------------------</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>pounds<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>boneless skinless chicken breast</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>can<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:2"> </span>light coconut milk</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Madras curry powder</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>fresh lime juice</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>brown sugar</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoon<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>minced lemongrass</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>teaspoon<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>crushed red pepper -- (use less if you don't want a moderate amount of heat)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>teaspoon<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ground ginger</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/4<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>teaspoon<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ground black pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>5<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>whole<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 2"> </span>garlic cloves</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>small<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 2"> </span>onion -- coarsely chopped, about 1/2 cup</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cashews</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>16<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>bell pepper -- green, colored, or a mix; chopped in 1" pieces; about 1-1/2 large</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>8<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>carrots -- peeled and cut diagonally 1/2" thick; about 2 large</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2 1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>frozen green beans -- thawed; about 1 cup</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>teaspoon<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>coconut extract</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>3<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>chopped cilantro</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.25in 1.75in"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1 1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>cups<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>basmati rice -- uncooked</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Cut the chicken breast into large pieces (about 1 per serving).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In a small amount of oil, brown the chicken on two sides in a large skillet.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">While the chicken is browning, in the crockpot, mix the coconut milk through the ground black pepper.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">While the food processor is running, drop in the garlic cloves and process until chopped.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add the onion through cashews and process until all are finely chopped.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>While the machine is running, add 1/4 cup water in a slow stream to make a paste.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Scrape this mixture out into the crockpot and mix.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add the bell pepper and carrots to the coconut milk mixture, then place the browned chicken breast peins on top.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Cover, turn to high, and cook for 3 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add the thawed green beans, cover, turn the crockpot to low, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add the thawed green beans, cover, and turn the crockpot to low.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Cook for an additional 30 minutes. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Prepare rice during this final 30 minutes. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Stir in the coconut extract.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">In shallow bowls, serve chicken pieces and vegetables with generous amounts of sauce over steamed rice; sprinkle with cilantro.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Squeeze wedges of fresh lime over, if desired.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 435 Calories (kcal); 8g Total Fat (3g Saturated); (16% calories from fat); 42g Protein; 50g Carbohydrate; 88mg Cholesterol; 162mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 2 Grain(Starch); 5 Lean Meat; 2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">RECIPE NOTE:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I prefer to use regular coconut milk and dilute with water to cut the fat content (“light coconut milk is just that—regular coconut milk cut with an equal amount of water, then sold at a higher price than the regular).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But I had a can of “light”, purchased by mistake, and used it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">In either case, whether using the light or the diluted regular, I always add coconut extract to give some extra flavor.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This is best added toward the end of the cooking time, so don’t forget it!</p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-71590188156259147092012-01-21T20:36:00.003-05:002012-01-21T21:09:45.784-05:00Tilapia with Oranges, Tomatoes, and Toasted Garlic<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">We awoke this morning to snow, and underneath that, ice.<span style=""> </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6b3eIAr6lUY/Txtuoj4ui1I/AAAAAAAABXM/XoWYW9eRvII/s1600/IcyBridfeeder1_21Jan2012.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6b3eIAr6lUY/Txtuoj4ui1I/AAAAAAAABXM/XoWYW9eRvII/s320/IcyBridfeeder1_21Jan2012.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700271396474489682" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Pleased that we didn’t need to drive anywhere today, my first duty was to clear the ice from our birdfeeders.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:450.75pt">Poor little guys, half of the perches were iced over, as was the tray which held the seed, and small icicles hung from the top.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It looked very cold.</p> <br /><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I spent a couple of hours today cleaning our hall closet, which is a very nice job for a cold winter day (especially when a nice, warm radiator is nearby).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I hope to make a trip to the recycling center sometime in the next week or two, and the stacks of old magazines were falling over into each other.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It’s amazing how many magazines I bundled up.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I grew up reading magazines.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One of my earliest reading memories was reading <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Good Housekeeping</i> in bed, while staying at my Gram’s house. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>My Mom has probably kept a subscription to that magazine for over 50 years (they should award super-long-time subscribers like her!).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As I grew older, I bought my own—<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Tiger Beat</i>, then later, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Seventeen </i>and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Glamour </i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>then onto <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Cosmopolitan </i>as I slid into my mid-20’s.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then Jack and I were married and I realized that I needed to evaluate my subscription choices since I was living on a farm and no longer working in the city so I started reading cooking and home-decorating magazines.<span style=""> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After the internet came into my life, I’ve been able to pare down to a few hard-copy magazines such as <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Eating Well, Health, Real Simple, </i>and<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"> Better Homes & Gardens.</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Mom still subscribes to more than I do, and she passes me her issues when she is finished with them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One which I seem to get some decent recipes from is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Woman’s Day.</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">After a wonderful, yet rich, lunch at a Mexican restaurant the other day I decided that we needed to have something very light for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I opened my binder of “to try” recipes and found one taken from the November 2011 issue of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Woman’s Day.</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Tilapia with Oranges, Tomatoes, and Toasted Garlic was a great choice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It is incredibly quick to make and very tasty.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Somehow, I didn’t think that oranges, tomatoes, and garlic would be this good.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I served it with roasted butternut squash cubes, but I think that garlic-sautéed spinach would be even better for the next time.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Jack is not wild about couscous, so I subbed steamed jasmine rice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It will be on our regular rotation for these winter months.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8f1sA_53H4U/TxttNFy_igI/AAAAAAAABXA/mAYF5C3f5DQ/s1600/TilapiaOrangesTomatoes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8f1sA_53H4U/TxttNFy_igI/AAAAAAAABXA/mAYF5C3f5DQ/s320/TilapiaOrangesTomatoes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700269825029278210" border="0" /></a></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Tilapia with </b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Oranges</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">, Tomatoes, and Toasted Garlic</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto"><u>Ingredients<span class="amount"></span></u></p> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">1/2</span> <span class="unit">cup(s) </span><span class="name">whole-wheat couscous </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">1</span> <span class="unit">large </span><span class="name">orange </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">3</span> <span class="unit">teaspoon(s) </span><span class="name">olive oil </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">4</span> <span class="unit">small </span><span class="name">tilapia fillets (about 1½ lb) </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="name">Kosher salt and pepper </span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">2</span> <span class="unit">clove(s) </span><span class="name">garlic</span>, thinly sliced</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">1.5</span> <span class="unit">piece(s) </span><span class="name">fresh ginger</span>, very thinly sliced</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">1</span> <span class="unit">pint(s) </span><span class="name">cherry tomatoes</span>, halved</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in"><span class="amount">2</span> <span class="unit"> </span><span class="name">scallions</span>, thinly sliced</li></ul> <p class="header"><u>Directions</u></p> <ol start="1" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2;tab-stops:list .5in">Cook the couscous according to package directions. Cut away the peel and white pith of the orange. Working over a bowl, cut the orange into segments, adding them to the bowl along with any juices.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2;tab-stops:list .5in">Meanwhile, heat 1 tsp oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Season the tilapia with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper and cook until opaque throughout, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2;tab-stops:list .5in">Wipe out the skillet and heat the remaining 2 tsp oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and cook, tossing occasionally, until beginning to break down, about 3 minutes. Add the oranges and any juices and gently toss to heat through. Serve with the tilapia and couscous and sprinkle with the scallions.</li></ol>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-2217208119164978452012-01-20T22:12:00.004-05:002012-01-21T12:00:11.272-05:00Gnocchi with Butternut Squash, Spinach, and Walnuts<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">I was organizing Christmas decorations in the basement yesterday afternoon and uncovered a butternut squash. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Apparently, while unpacking cookie tins last month, I tossed an empty plastic bag over the squash (which was sitting innocently on a shelf in the cool basement).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This, I decided, was a “sign”.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Butternut squash for dinner.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Since butternut squash goes so well with sage, I picked some leaves from my (outdoor) still-alive-but-looking-straggly sage plant this afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then I noticed a small amount of baby spinach leaves in a bag in the refrigerator, and a package of potato gnocchi that I had bought yesterday that was still on the kitchen table. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Jack wandered into the kitchen asked what I was planning for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I told him gnocchi, butternut squash, spinach… and he then suggested that I add toasted walnuts.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Brilliant.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’ve made similar recipes before, but this time I actually wrote down what I did.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This was so good!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Little pillows of potato-ey gnocchi, cubes of sweet butternut squash, spinach and parmesan, and the crunchy toasted walnuts were an excellent final touch.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And it came together very quickly.</p><br /><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Gnocchi with Butternut Squash, Spinach, and Walnuts</b><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riSu11Kfyao/TxouTFhIt6I/AAAAAAAABW0/kc8uAlEuh8U/s1600/GnocchiButternut.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riSu11Kfyao/TxouTFhIt6I/AAAAAAAABW0/kc8uAlEuh8U/s320/GnocchiButternut.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699919183824336802" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">16 ounces potato gnocchi</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 tablespoons olive oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 tablespoon butter</p> <p class="MsoNormal">12 ounces (about 2 ½ cups) peeled and seeded butternut squash (cut into ½” pieces)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 ½ ounces (about ¼ cup) diced onion (1/2” pieces)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 large clove garlic, smashed and minced</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 ounces baby spinach leaves (if large, run a knife through them a couple of times)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 ½ tablespoons fresh, minced sage</p> <p class="MsoNormal">salt and pepper to taste</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 tablespoons grated Parmesan</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 tablespoons chopped toasted walnuts</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Put a large pot of salted water on to boil for the gnocchi.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Toast walnuts, if necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add squash and cook, stirring frequently, until pieces are just softened (about 5 minutes).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add gnocchi to boiling water.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add the onion and garlic to the squash and cook for an additional 2 minutes.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add spinach and cook for another minute.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Scoop 1/3 cup of water from the cooking gnocchi and stir into the vegetables.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Drain the gnocchi and add to the pan along with the sage leaves and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring gently.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Season with salt and pepper.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Divide between 2 plates, sprinkle with Parmesan and walnuts.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">An additional comment:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This recipe, if you are to go by the gnocchi package, should have made 4 servings.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Right.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It probably made close to 3—Jack ate two!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And, afterward, he said that he could have had another two servings.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>:)<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So much for portion control.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We love our carbs!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Gnocchi is our downfall.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I once saw the photo of a recipe that showed a serving as being 8 measly gnocchi.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We laughed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I suppose that <u>if</u> you follow the “recommended servings”, if you are making the above recipe for 4, perhaps you should double all of the other ingredients.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">And, after roasting the other half of this butternut squash in the oven to accompany our lunch today, I think that instead of sautéing the squash I would prefer to roast it for in this recipe.</p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-53282316276724067452012-01-03T20:46:00.002-05:002012-01-03T20:59:37.622-05:00Turkey Pumpkin Chili<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">This morning we woke to snow.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I looked out of the window and saw a scene worthy of any of those glass snowball decorations (after being shaken furiously).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So far there hasn’t been a lot of accumulation, maybe a couple of inches, but it finally looks Christmas-ey out.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Over a week later.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Oh well, too many icy, cold, snowy Decembers have been complained about, so why not also complain about a warm, rainy December as well?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If I lived in a more temperate climate I probably would not get to complain about the weather at all (and where, anyway, <u>is</u> that Vicci-perfect climate?).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">The flotsam and jetsam of Christmas are littered about the house.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Due to work on the house and barn, I finally got around to decorating too little, too late; and then with becoming sick over Christmas and the week-plus thereafter, very little straightening-up was accomplished.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’ve been sitting around, eating the leftover seasonal goodies, and feeling like a blob.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Jack is finally feeling better (a more miserable patient there could never be), and my breathing is improving, but I have learned that the process cannot be rushed or there will be an inevitable backward slide.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I will try to put up with taking it easy for the next few days.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I cannot promise that my husband, however, will do the same.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">To help us both in our recoveries, and also to try and offset the delicious cookies and candies which neither of us can seem to ignore, I am preparing healthy meals.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I had a single pumpkin from my garden this year (which, actually, was a surprise because I forgot to <u>plant</u> pumpkin), and it has been sitting on the kitchen counter for weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I used half for dinner last night.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I really don’t know what I did before Trader Joe came into my life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Well, I do.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I never had the option to buy the variety of items which are available at that store.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If I wanted a curry, I made a curry from (almost) scratch.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Having TJ’s bottled curry sauces on hand, in both the Indian and the Thai varieties, is a great convenience.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Although I do feel better these days, I’m rather tired and breathless by the day’s end and looking for something relatively quick to make for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Yesterday I was craving a nice, warming, coconut-scented Thai curry.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I pulled a bottle of Trader Joe’s Thai Yellow Curry sauce from the pantry, sautéed chicken and onions, added the sauce, added chunks of fresh pumpkin, and simmered until the pumpkin softened.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Just before serving I stirred in chopped fresh spinach.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Served over jasmine rice, with a sprinkling of cashews on top, it was thoroughly enjoyable and almost too easy.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>:)</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class="" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class="" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">Tonight, I am going to use the other half of that pumpkin for Turkey Pumpkin Chili, which I wrote about last January.<span style=""> <br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class="" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"><img src="img/blank.gif" alt="Link" class="gl_link" border="0" />http://victoriasdays.blogspot.com/2011/01/turkey-pumpkin-chili.html</span></span><br /><span style=""></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">(after-dinner note: great chili recipe! T</span>o save time, I sauteed the ground turkey, then added the onions through garlic, and then the canned tomatoes, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> Very delicious and warming.)<br /></span></p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-31420808427525062092012-01-01T17:55:00.003-05:002012-01-01T18:11:37.709-05:00Hoppin' John!Happy New Year!<br /><br /> <p class="MsoNormal">My Mom makes pork and sauerkraut for New Year’s Day, and I never could learn to like either the taste or the smell of that fermented cabbage!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So for the past 25+ years, I have made our own NYD food tradition of black-eyed peas and greens in various forms.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can never remember exactly what recipe I have used from year to year, but today’s lunch from Vegetarian Times has already been printed out, noted, and saved in both my binder and computer file.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Jack’s comment after the first bite:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>“Now <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">this</i> is excellent!” :)</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FJWlevu4pes/TwDmWMiJfvI/AAAAAAAABWo/q4qaYd-3VFA/s1600/HoppinJohn1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FJWlevu4pes/TwDmWMiJfvI/AAAAAAAABWo/q4qaYd-3VFA/s320/HoppinJohn1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692803197992271602" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <h2><br /></h2><h2><span style="font-size:100%;">Hoppin' John With Collard Greens</span></h2><h2><span style="font-size:100%;">Ingredient List</span></h2> <p class="perserving">Serves 4 </p> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, divided</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">2 Tbs. agave nectar<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>(I used honey)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">3 tsp. olive oil, divided</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">1 tsp. chili powder, divided</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">1 tsp. salt, divided</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">1 large bunch collard greens, chopped <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>(I used 10 ounces)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">4 slices meatless low-fat bacon strips, chopped<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>(I used 6 ounces of smoked turkey sausage)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">1 small onion, chopped (3/4 cup)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">3 ribs celery, chopped (3/4 cup) </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in">1 1/2 cups cooked long-grain white rice (I used ¾ cup uncooked and then, of course, cooked it)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 15.5-oz. can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>(I used 10 ounces frozen, thawed)</li></ul><p><br /></p> <h2><span style="font-size:100%;">Directions</span></h2> <p>1. Whisk together 2 Tbs. vinegar, agave nectar, 1 tsp. olive oil, 1/2 tsp. chili powder, and 1/2 tsp. salt; set aside.</p><p><br /></p> <p>2. Cook collard greens in pot of boiling salted water 15 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup liquid.</p><p><br /></p> <p>3. Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 tsp. oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon, onion, celery, garlic, and remaining 1/2 tsp. chili powder. Cook 8 minutes, or until translucent. Add collard greens, vinegar-agave nectar mixture, 1/4 cup reserved cooking liquid, 2 Tbs. vinegar, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt. Cover, and cook 10 minutes, or until greens are tender. Transfer to serving platter.<br /></p><p><br /></p> <p>4. Add rice and beans to skillet. Stir in remaining 1/4 cup cooking liquid, and cook 3 minutes, or until heated through. Serve rice and beans over greens.</p><p><br /></p> <p>Note:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I stirred the peas, rice, and sausage into the collard greens and served all in one big bowl.</p><p><br /></p> <h2><span style="font-size:100%;">Nutritional Information</span></h2> <p class="perserving"><strong>Per Serving:</strong> Calories: 291, Protein: 12g, Total fat: 6g, Saturated fat: 0.5g, Carbs: 51g, Cholesterol: mg, Sodium: 723mg, Fiber: 8g, Sugars: 12g</p><p class="perserving"><br /></p><p class="perserving"><br /></p> <p class="perserving">Because I didn’t feel like making the accompanying cornbread, this recipe made 2 servings. :)<br /></p><p class="perserving"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="perserving">I have to wonder, why do I only think of making this on New Year’s Day?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It is very good, healthy, easy to make…<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’m keeping the printed version in my current recipe binder and hope to put it into regular rotation over this winter.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-3923670066228968052011-12-31T15:53:00.001-05:002011-12-31T16:20:11.703-05:00Skillet Chicken with Cranberries and Apples<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">December 30th---and what a month it has been!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Does any time go as fast as during those thirty-one days of December?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am sitting at the computer, looking outside on a lovely, late-December day.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The sun has already begun to dip behind trees covering the hills to the west even though it’s barely 4pm, and the thermometer read 54 degrees when I walked by the window last.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We’re in southwestern Pennsylvania, so this cannot last.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But it is a nice gift.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">That’s what my Mom called it this morning.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She phoned and told me that she took “this gift of a day” and went for a nice, long walk.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Having broken her ankle last summer, and become increasingly frustrated with limping and pain throughout the fall, this past month she finally got back into her walking routine.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When the weather is decent, about two miles a day (as far as I can figure out) and I applaud her.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Although I cringe at the thought of her out on country lanes, walking on the edge of the road, and I only wish that she would get her act together and locate some of the flashing devices I have bought her in the past few years to <u>wear</u> so that she can <u>be </u><u>safe</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Are you listening, Mummy????</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am being forced to sit and be quiet and wait out the last days of a fairly nasty asthma attack that began on Christmas Eve day.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I have spent several hours combing through my cooking and baking notes (dating from September!) and realize how hopelessly behind I am.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There just isn’t enough time in the day for everything.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I have a photo, and nailed the recipe, for a wonderful linguine with white clam sauce.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’ve seen the scribbled recipe floating around the kitchen for a couple of months now and, of course, since I have the time to post I cannot seem to locate it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Perhaps next time.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Next up, a photo from several weeks ago and I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">know</i> where that recipe is.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Online.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Safe in the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Eating Well</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>website.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Skillet Chicken with Cranberries and Apples was, as I recall, my attempt at trying to cook a quick dinner but to also make something new and different.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It fit the bill perfectly.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-inIWq2eVh3c/Tv98LhBTucI/AAAAAAAABWc/wU4DN7Wxtz8/s1600/SkilletChickenWIthCranberriesApples.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-inIWq2eVh3c/Tv98LhBTucI/AAAAAAAABWc/wU4DN7Wxtz8/s320/SkilletChickenWIthCranberriesApples.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692404991303858626" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><h2>Skillet Chicken with Cranberries & Apples</h2> <p><a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/chicken_cranberries_apples.html">http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/chicken_cranberries_app</a><a onclick="'if" id="autosaveButton" class="cssButton" href="javascript:void(0)" target=""></a></p><a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/chicken_cranberries_apples.html"></a><p></p> <em>From EatingWell: September/October 2011</em> <p>Celebrate the flavors of fall with chicken cooked in a fast apple-cranberry sauce. If you prefer a less tart flavor, try dried cranberries instead of fresh. Serve with quick-cooking wild rice and roasted Brussels sprouts.</p> <p><strong> 4 servings, about 1 1/4 cups each </strong> | <strong>Active Time:</strong> 20 minutes | <strong>Total Time:</strong> 20 minutes </p> <h3>Ingredients</h3> <ul><li>1 pound chicken tenders, trimmed and cut in half on the diagonal</li><li>3/4 teaspoon dried thyme, divided</li><li>3/4 teaspoon salt, divided</li><li>1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper</li><li>2 tablespoons canola oil, divided</li><li>2 crisp red apples, such as Braeburn, Fuji or Gala, thinly sliced</li><li>1 large red onion, quartered and sliced</li><li>3/4 cup apple cider or apple juice, divided</li><li>1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen (thawed)</li><li>1 tablespoon all-purpose flour</li></ul> <h3>Preparation</h3> <ol><li>Sprinkle both sides of chicken tenders with 1/4 teaspoon each thyme, salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and add the chicken. Cook, stirring, until lightly browned on all sides, 3 to 4 minutes total. Transfer to a clean plate.</li><li>Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan. Add apples, onion, 2 tablespoons cider (or juice) and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon each thyme and salt. Stir to combine. Cook, stirring often, until the apples and onion are softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add cranberries and sprinkle flour over everything in the pan; cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the remaining cider (or juice). Cover and cook, stirring once or twice, until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through, about 3 minutes more.</li></ol> <h3>Nutrition</h3> <p><strong>Per serving :</strong> 287 Calories; 10 g Fat; 1 g Sat; 5 g Mono; 63 mg Cholesterol; 26 g Carbohydrates; 24 g Protein; 4 g Fiber; 496 mg Sodium; 415 mg Potassium</p> <p>2 Carbohydrate Serving</p> <p><strong>Exchanges:</strong> 1 1/2 fruit, 1 vegetable, 3 lean meat, 1 1/2 fat</p><p><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I cut boneless skinless chicken breasts in pieces instead of using chicken tenders, but otherwise prepared the original recipe as written.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It took so little time to make that I had to hold it in the pan for several minutes while the pilaf finished cooking.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The chicken was tender, the tart cranberries a very nice contrast to the sweet apple, and there were a lot of pan juices which soaked into the multigrain pilaf wonderfully.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I also served mashed sweet potatoes, and the dinner was a hit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Very warming, and flavorful, and healthy.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In fact, this will probably be our dinner this evening.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-12481137367294671402011-11-23T21:27:00.007-05:002011-11-23T22:07:52.837-05:00Triple Ginger BarsI spent the day in the kitchen today, my favorite way to spend time. :)<br /><br />I made cornbread, then cornbread dressing; also vanilla mashed sweet potatoes, and a pumpkin pie. The Brussels sprouts are trimmed and ready to roast, the hazelnuts toasted and chopped to be sprinkled on top before serving. Pumpkin scones, for Friday's breakfast, are in the freezer. We're all ready to take our part of the feast to our friend's house tomorrow.<br /><br />At the last minute, I decided to make <a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/bars/triple-ginger-squares/">Triple Ginger Bars</a> which are featured in the November 2011 issue of <span style="font-style: italic;">Better Homes & Gardens</span>. Even though loaded with butter, I made the recipe according to the directions because it's a holiday! Anyway, for some reason the cake sunk quite badly in the center. Then the glaze was poured over. It cascaded down the edges and puddled in the center. As the glaze cooled, I tried to pull it up over to the edges and was only moderately successful. At a last desperate attempt to cover the wrinkled glaze and salvage the bars, I covered the surface with ground, toasted hazelnuts.<br /><br />It worked, somewhat. After cutting, some of the bars had the distinct contours of a beginner ski-slope.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fZrMv_AwYo4/Ts20LjsW_sI/AAAAAAAABWQ/6AwrSVBLEMc/s1600/IMG_4061.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fZrMv_AwYo4/Ts20LjsW_sI/AAAAAAAABWQ/6AwrSVBLEMc/s320/IMG_4061.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678392815836921538" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Oh well, I shall serve them with the best side facing outward.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PtOuT9Rzzko/Ts2yANgZvAI/AAAAAAAABWE/IIq2QyJVj9U/s1600/IMG_4055.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PtOuT9Rzzko/Ts2yANgZvAI/AAAAAAAABWE/IIq2QyJVj9U/s320/IMG_4055.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678390421879372802" border="0" /></a><br />Despite their appearance, these were really good. You have to like ginger a lot to appreciate them, though, because they are just filled with that nippy spice. I didn't have any fresh ginger, so I subbed 3 Tablespoons of finely-chopped crystallized ginger. Very good. I just don't know what I did wrong that would cause them fall in the center, and because of that I probably will not make them again.Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-6219998183892816832011-11-21T17:20:00.006-05:002011-11-21T17:51:13.304-05:00Reynolds Wrap Pan Lining PaperYesterday my friend Jenni joined me in our Holiday Baking Day and we cranked out several dozen of each of 7 varieties of cookies. :) I hope to get them all posted in the next week or so.<br /><br /><br />But this post is a warning.<br /><br /><br />I bought Reynolds Wrap Pan Liner Paper because I couldn't find plain ol' parchment and it was horrible. The edges of the paper curled up and over and embedded themselves in the baked goods on the edges of the cookie sheet.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-peK6hpLeEUY/TsrUsLbqYBI/AAAAAAAABV4/qNm46K0EHDk/s1600/Pan%2Bliner%2Bproblem%2B1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-peK6hpLeEUY/TsrUsLbqYBI/AAAAAAAABV4/qNm46K0EHDk/s320/Pan%2Bliner%2Bproblem%2B1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677584135702077458" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />For another recipe, the parchment was to go over the edge of the pan to facilitate removal of the bars. The "pan lining paper" curled up and over and into the bars on two sides. Note the ridges on the bottom pan after removing the paper:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gB4Chsh_0Ac/TsrREanH2aI/AAAAAAAABVs/PD9nJGVbMYw/s1600/Pan%2Bliner%2Bproblem%2B2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gB4Chsh_0Ac/TsrREanH2aI/AAAAAAAABVs/PD9nJGVbMYw/s320/Pan%2Bliner%2Bproblem%2B2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677580154047027618" border="0" /></a><br /><br />My husband didn't mind because he then got to eat the imperfect cookies/ bars. <span style="font-weight: bold;">I</span> minded because these are for gift trays/ baskets and I couldn't use them since they were not pretty.<br /><br /><br />Just a warning! I'll be returning the amount not used. :(Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-18180337716193808902011-11-14T21:26:00.003-05:002011-11-17T20:42:07.709-05:00Restoring old wood windows, and not cooking...<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p>Somehow, cooking has become lost for me lately since our autumn has been so very busy.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Poor Jack has had so many dinners of grilled chicken breasts with whatever sauce I had in the refrigerator, some veggies, and a baked potato that I do not need to write about my cooking.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Yes, there are a few times in the past several weeks where I actually had the time to make a decent dinner, but these were few and also were already-tried recipes that I have previously posted.<br /><br /> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">We don’t eat much prepared food and I was at a loss as to what to buy to make meals easier.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I did purchase a veggie lasagna at TJs but have yet to try it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I can only thank Trader Joe and his barbeque sauces, Indian simmer sauces, and items like butternut squash ravioli, frozen roasted corn and frozen roasted bell pepper & onion combos.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At least I wasn’t opening a can of corn.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I shall blog today about windows, because that is what has consumed my time over the past weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We live in a 144-year-old home that is constructed of brick and has the original wooden windows.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Can anyone think of a more energy-<span style="font-style: italic;">inefficient </span>type of window, other than a single sheet of plastic wrap?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>No?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I didn’t think so.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But Jack is an architect, and he is very preservation-minded, so replacing the original wooden windows with nice, tight, energy-efficient ones was not even considered.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Yes, we would rather freeze than compromise on our historical home!<span style=""><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Well, no, not me but I had to go along with it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And build up a nice collection of heavy sweaters and thick blankets.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p>Many years ago, when I was much younger and full of energy (*sigh*), I worked my way around this large house, repairing windows, replacing broken or cracked glass, scraping and painting, and caulking the he** out of each window.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They are as energy-efficient as they can be under the circumstances (and those are the circumstances of historical preservation).<br /><br /><p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Alas, even though I bought the “best” paint and the “best” of the other materials, I will never be done with keeping these windows looking decent.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Every fall, depending on time available, I get to work on the windows.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">This year, another job had been added.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We have a huge barn (this used to be a dairy farm, even after 30 years the inside of the barn smells faintly of cows.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Not a bad thing at all.), and a contractor arrived to replace part of the roof that was damaged in a storm last winter.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The barn is set away from the house, and not very visible from the house because of the trees, so I’ve not paid much attention to it in the last few years because it’s basically a grossly oversized storage unit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But once the roof was replaced (and looking very nice) and new windows are going to be installed in the very-high dormers, I looked critically at the windows on the barn ground level and was dismayed at the shape they were in.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Window panes were missing and boarded over, sills rotting, a couple of the windows were literally falling out of the clay tile blocks which surrounded them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So we asked the contractor to price replacing all of the windows.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He could not find an inexpensive replacement window that Jack approved of, and the best he could come up with were vinyl windows that would have cost us $8000.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For the barn.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The storage barn!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I don’t know why I didn’t expect this, but Jack then suggested that perhaps <u>I</u> restore the barn windows.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Initially, as we stood in the barnyard looking at the worst side of windows, I considered throwing something at him; perhaps a chunk of tile that had fallen from underneath a rotting windowsill.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But I resisted the urge and considered the cost savings.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In addition to my very valuable time, a couple of gallons of paint, a case or two of caulk, a huge bottle of wood-glue would be all that would be necessary to preserve these windows for a little while longer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And we could use that $8000 for more visible restoration work around our home.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So I began.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Three weeks later I have completed 6 of the very worst of the windows.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Because I worked though our lovely Indian summer, even though we will have a couple of days here and there in the next few weeks that will be warm-ish and dry, I have quit until Spring.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There is holiday stuff to plan and do!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Here is a closeup of one of the worst windows, a day or two into the process (I didn’t start taking photos right away). The broken panes had been removed, the muntins repaired or replaced, the loose paint scraped off:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AXyscnvaaI0/TsHRjFKpCdI/AAAAAAAABUw/6oMH6wnm2Aw/s1600/Window4_5Nov2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AXyscnvaaI0/TsHRjFKpCdI/AAAAAAAABUw/6oMH6wnm2Aw/s320/Window4_5Nov2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675047406075972050" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">And several days afterward replacing and glazing the glass panes, caulking, priming and painting with the resulting "new" window. I should have cleaned the glass but that was extra work, not necessary, and it is a <span style="font-style: italic;">barn</span>. ;)</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1cf36b3127ccefef6036422fc00000030O00AZNG7Ro4cuGIPbz4S/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 550px; height: 400px;" src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1cf36b3127ccefef6036422fc00000030O00AZNG7Ro4cuGIPbz4S/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" alt="" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I’m obviously not a carpenter.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Rebuilding those little “muntins” between the glass panes was, well, a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">pain</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But they look nice, and I can only hope that they will not deteriorate too much before we are able to sell this place to a nice, historically-sensitive person who will use the barn for more than storage and will love the farm as we do. Then Jack and I can move to the retirement condo where I will have a large kitchen with brand-spanking new appliances and a small yard. There are some days where I feel as though this cannot happen soon enough!<br /></p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-38773378642163010522011-10-29T18:07:00.005-04:002011-10-29T18:40:48.768-04:00Lentil and Brown Rice Stew with Chicken<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Well, the frost really <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">is</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>on the pumpkin now!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It seems as though it were only 5 days ago that I was outside painting in a short-sleeve t-shirt, but yesterday morning was our first heavy frost and this morning there were snow showers.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mxgx0MmDqBc/Tqx_N4KtxsI/AAAAAAAABUM/LE6oRnD5CVA/s1600/Frosty%2BOctober%2BMorning.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mxgx0MmDqBc/Tqx_N4KtxsI/AAAAAAAABUM/LE6oRnD5CVA/s320/Frosty%2BOctober%2BMorning.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669045907344967362" border="0" /></a><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]-->How very cool the feathery stalks of the decorative grass look when coated with frost!<br /><br /><p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">My entire focus on food has shifted in the past couple of weeks, and I now plan warming meals.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Especially since we just got our furnace repaired yesterday and we’ve been waking in a bedroom with mid-50’s temps.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Brrr.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">The other day I made stock from the carcass of a chicken that I roasted for dinner the evening before.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I used it today to make a very thick, warm, satisfying stew for lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Jack isn’t a big fan of lentils, although I love them, and I put both lentils and chicken into the stew although the lentils and brown rice were the main ingredients (kind of a lentil stew seasoned with chicken).</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">This stew is a protein-fiber powerhouse with less than 450 calories in a 1-1/2 cup serving.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I harvested a lot of hot peppers from the garden last week-orange habanero, chocolate habanero, and red cherry:</p><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8CSPE77zOQ/Tqx9BQNn2SI/AAAAAAAABUA/Br7SPFBKtkA/s1600/hot%2Bpepper%2Bharvest%2B2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8CSPE77zOQ/Tqx9BQNn2SI/AAAAAAAABUA/Br7SPFBKtkA/s320/hot%2Bpepper%2Bharvest%2B2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669043491438057762" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal">And I added one of the smaller orange habanero peppers, chopped very finely, to the stew.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Those are darn hot peppers!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The stew was up at the higher level of my heat tolerance, but for the first time that day I felt warm.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>:) </p><br /><p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Lentil and Brown Rice Stew with Chicken</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Recipe By: Vicci</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Servings : 6<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Amount<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Measure<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in">--------<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>------------<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>--------------------------------</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>tablespoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>olive oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>6 1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>carrots -- chopped, about 1-2/3 cups</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>4<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>onions -- chopped, about 1 cup</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2 3/4<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>celery -- minced, about 3/4 cup</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>large<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>garlic clove -- minced</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/4<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cup<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>all-purpose flour</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>8<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cups<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>low sodium chicken broth</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>teaspoons<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>dried thyme</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>whole<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>bay leaves</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/2<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cup<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>brown rice</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cup<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>lentils -- brown lentils preferred</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>6<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>zucchini or yellow squash -- chopped, about 2 cups</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cup<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>frozen, shelled edamame -- thawed</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>8<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>ounces<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cooked chicken breast halves -- chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>1/4<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>cup<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>minced fresh parsley</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:.75in 1.75in"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">In a large Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add the carrots and cook, stirring often, for 3 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add the onions, celery, and garlic and lower the heat a little,<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Stir often until the veggies have softened, about 8 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Increase the heat back to medium and sprinkle in the flour; stir constantly for a minute.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pour in the chicken broth slowly, stirring quickly to avoid any lumps.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add the thyme and bay leaves and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Add the lentils and brown rice, stir well, and turn down the heat to medium-low.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Cover partially and allow to cook for 40 minutes, stirring often.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add the chopped zucchini and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Stir in the edamame and chicken and cook until the chicken is heated through and the rice and lentils are tender.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Season with freshly ground pepper, and stir in parsley.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Yield:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>"9 cups"</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 437 Calories (kcal); 11g Total Fat (2g saturated); (21% calories from fat); 41g Protein; 47g Carbohydrate; 26mg Cholesterol; 744mg Sodium; Dietary Fiber 14g </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 2 1/2 Grain(Starch); 3 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Note:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I will add chopped mushrooms the next time, and perhaps some frozen peas—this is a great recipe to clean out the bits & pieces of frozen veggies in the freezer!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, no photo. I downloaded it, saved it somewhere (I'm certain that I did!) and then erased it from my memory card. If I remember, I'll try again with the leftovers tomorrow. Yeesh.<br /></p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-19905017468535307132011-10-16T12:32:00.004-04:002011-10-16T13:29:04.479-04:00Roasted Pumpkin Soup<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]-->Although the days are becoming cooler and most of the garden produce is only a (lovely) memory, I am still fortunate enough to have a zucchini and a yellow squash plant that are still producing. <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">The other evening I made a delicious mole that was quick and used one of the zucchini from the garden.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I searched and found that I had reviewed this <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Good Housekeeping </i>recipe a year ago, but that I hadn’t added a photo.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Well, this year I <u>have</u> that photo. :)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">The review and recipe are <a href="http://victoriasdays.blogspot.com/2010/09/chicken-and-zucchini-mole.html">here</a>, and I added in the photo as well.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I forgot about adding the red bell pepper and the chipotle (if I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">don’t write it down</i>…), but have now written this on the recipe so I don’t forget next time.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And I realize that 2 corn tortillas are considered a “serving”, but with the minimal fat and calories that they contain, we used a few extra because sopping up the rich sauce with the tortillas is just so very <u>good</u>.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Okay, since I got off easy for that post, I will add a new recipe to this one.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I haven’t been cooking a lot lately because I am busy getting work done on the outside of our house before cold weather arrives.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We will have a span of a few days of nice weather where I spend most of my day painting, and every few days there is a rainy day or two where I can work inside.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Yesterday was one of those days, and instead of painting the inside of the window frames as planned (I am so sick and tired of painting!), I decided to spend a few hours in the kitchen.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">My Dad gave me a pumpkin from his garden when we visited last month, so I decided to warm up the kitchen by roasting it for pumpkin soup.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">By far, the most difficult part of this recipe is cutting and peeling the pumpkin.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You need a very sharp knife, a large cutting board, and a large bowl for the peel and the insides.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I cut the pumpkin *almost* in half vertically (just to one side of the stem).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That is the most difficult part.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then I cut the pumpkin into slices, scoop out the seeds, and peel each piece.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It took me about a half hour to prepare 4 pounds of pumpkin.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">After that, it’s a breeze.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Toss the pumpkin chunks along with onions, garlic, thyme, and olive oil and roast for about a half hour.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Near the end of that time, bring the stock to a boil, add the cooked veggies, simmer for 10 minutes, and puree.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I love my hand blender for jobs like this!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It is over 20 years old and is taped (and injury which happened after falling out of the dish drainer years ago), but works great.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Some milk is added (would this make it a bisque rather than a soup?), and garnished with plain lowfat yogurt.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Too late, I realized that a sprinkling of smoked paprika would have been a great addition.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <h4>Roasted Pumpkin Soup</h4><h4><br /></h4><h4><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FK_SdRnh9Pw/TpsTeItxJ8I/AAAAAAAABTo/B4FfxnLgHTE/s1600/Roasted%2BPumpkin%2BSoup.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FK_SdRnh9Pw/TpsTeItxJ8I/AAAAAAAABTo/B4FfxnLgHTE/s320/Roasted%2BPumpkin%2BSoup.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664142364804982722" border="0" /></a></h4><p><br /></p> <h4>Makes about 9 cups</h4> <h4>Ingredients</h4> <p class="ingredients">4 pounds pumpkin, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces </p> <p class="ingredients">2 medium onions, cut into 8 pieces each</p> <p class="ingredients">3 large garlic colves, peeped and halved</p> <p class="ingredients">1 tablespoon finely chopped thyme</p> <p class="ingredients">2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil </p> <p class="ingredients">freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt to taste</p> <p class="ingredients">32 ounces chicken or veggie stock</p> <p class="ingredients">1 cup lowfat milk</p> <p class="ingredients">Plain lowfat yogurt</p> <p class="ingredients">Smoked paprika (or ground dried chipotle, if desired)<br /></p><p class="ingredients"><br /></p> <p class="method">Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss pumpkin, onions and thyme in oil and spread mixture onto 2 large baking sheets. </p><h4><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5M4t0-vh3N4/TpsSdedI6YI/AAAAAAAABTc/P7-sNtpT_ZA/s1600/IMG_3921.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5M4t0-vh3N4/TpsSdedI6YI/AAAAAAAABTc/P7-sNtpT_ZA/s320/IMG_3921.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664141253949319554" border="0" /></a></h4> <p class="method"><br /></p><p class="method">Season with salt and pepper and roast for 25 to 35 minutes until tender, stirring every ten minutes or so.<br /></p> <p class="method">Toward the end of the roasting time, heat the stock in a large pot.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Remove veggies from oven and transfer to a large pot. Add broth, wine and cardamom and simmer for 10 minutes. Using a hand blender, puree the soup until smooth (or, working in batches, puree the soup in a blender or food processor until smooth, then transfer back to pot). Bring soup back to a simmer. Remove from heat and whisk in milk.<br /></p> <p class="method">Ladle into soup bowls and garnish with plain nonfat yogurt, sprinkle with smoked paprika or ground chipotle pepper if you like some heat.</p><p class="method"><br /></p> <p class="method"> </p> <p class="method">(Shown in the photo are twisted whole wheat biscuits which, after another try or two and a few more tweaks, will be in a future post)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-78815590867892789682011-09-21T21:12:00.002-04:002011-09-21T21:26:00.266-04:00Panko-Crusted Cusk<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal">I have neglected this blog for far too long.<span> </span>It was a very hot, and busy, summer with not much desire or opportunity to try new recipes and post them.<span> </span>Well, actually, the posting was the main problem.<span> </span>I do have photos in my camera showing some of the more interesting recipes that I prepared, but the heat and humidity usually thwarted my efforts to write any semblance of an interesting review.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Well, that ended this week.<span> </span>The heat and humidity, I mean.<span> </span>We returned home from vacation to cool weather, turning leaves, rain.<span> </span>My house remains decorated with bright pastel colors and jars of seashells and other summery décor but, as soon as I have caught up on clearing out the flower beds and garden of their dying plants and unpacking, I will need to start the autumn routine of breaking down the back porch, cleaning the chair cushions and pillows, and covering the furniture; storing those summery decorations now on the tables and mantles, shutting down the goldfish pond, and (what really proves that summer is over), packing up all of my orange and yellow Fiestaware and swapping it with the red and black dishes which we use during the fall and winter.<span> </span>*sigh*</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Last night I made meatloaf with boiled new potatoes and green beans (from my Dad’s garden).<span> </span>A good autumn meal for a cool and drizzly fall evening.<span> </span>But let’s go back a few days and remember a very tasty part of our summer vacation.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Before leaving the <st1:state><st1:place>Massachusetts</st1:place></st1:state> coast, we stopped by our favorite fresh fish store.<span> </span>I bought lobster to take to my parents for lobster rolls and a large piece of a fish, previous to this trip unknown to us, called cusk.<span> </span>The fishmonger had told us, way back when we arrived at our vacation rental and went to find something to make for dinner, that cusk tasted like catfish.<span> </span>We bought a piece and enjoyed it so much that I made it several times during our stay.</p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It’s a pretty awful name, isn’t it?<span> </span>Cusk .<span> </span>If pathagonian toothfish could magically turn into Chilean sea bass, why can’t those people who rename fish do something similar to bump up the image of the poor cusk? This is a fish species that lives in the waters of the northern Atlantic, off the coast of the New England states.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">What we enjoyed most about cusk was that it resembled cod, and was almost as firm-fleshed as cod, but the taste was sweet, close to catfish.<span> </span>Our favorite way to enjoy cusk is a very simple one.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I soak the cusk in milk, turning often, for about 15-20 minutes.<span> </span>Panko crumbs, granulated garlic, thyme, paprika, s & p, and chili powder is mixed on a plate.<span> </span>I heat a nonstick pan and drizzle about 2 tablespoons of light olive oil into it.<span> </span>The fish is then removed from the milk, covered with the crumb mixture (pressing it firmly into the fish), and placed in the hot pan.<span> </span>I fry it for about 4 minutes (until the bottom is golden), then spray cooking spray on the top of the fillets before turning. Another 3-4 minutes of cooking, and we have crispy, golden, tender fish fillets for dinner.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">This is how I prepared our last fresh-from-Massachusetts dinner, made on a rainy fall evening the day we arrived home. <span> </span>We enjoyed it very much.<span> </span>I wonder if some of the specialty fish shops in <st1:city><st1:place>Pittsburgh</st1:place></st1:city> carry cusk?<span> </span>Probably not, but it gives us yet another reason to anticipate our (hopefully) eventual move to the coast of <st1:place>New England</st1:place>.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wz9L6gmyGXY/TnqNupyJ9eI/AAAAAAAABTI/O4cjkabXOvc/s320/Panko%2BCrusted%2BCusk.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654988114746799586" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Panko-crusted cusk (with Trader Joe’s Harvest Grain Blend and fresh beets).</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I hope to get back to posting more regularly, now that the craziness of summer are over!</p></div>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-51920084569001066132011-07-07T21:38:00.010-04:002011-07-07T22:20:45.513-04:00Barbeque Pulled Chicken; Grilled Corn Salad
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="time"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} h2 {mso-style-next:Normal; margin-top:12.0pt; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:3.0pt; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; page-break-after:avoid; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:14.0pt; font-family:Arial; font-weight:bold; font-style:italic;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:203904906; mso-list-template-ids:853996088;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l1 {mso-list-id:693770171; mso-list-template-ids:504023112;} @list l2 {mso-list-id:873150481; mso-list-template-ids:1352837912;} @list l2:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">The heat and humidity has everything around here slowing to a <i style="">crawl</i>.<span style=""> </span>An early-morning run, some gardening, and hanging out a load of laundry has about done me in !</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I run on trails around our property, and this morning I decided that I would start a new routine of getting out early.<span style=""> </span>I prefer to run after I’ve had a meal, in late morning, but the temps were already over 80 when I returned home at <st1:time minute="0" hour="9">9am</st1:time>.<span style=""> </span>These days, if I don’t get out early, then I don’t do it.<span style=""> </span>And I need to run.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The woods were cool, although a bit on the humid side.<span style=""> </span>I noticed that the wild yarrow is about to bloom, and that means summer is in full swing.<span style=""> </span>The black raspberry bushes are mostly past their prime, but I found a few ripe ones remaining in a shady location.<span style=""> </span>Next up are the blackberries and, if they produce like these raspberries did a couple of weeks ago, I may have to make some jam.<span style=""> </span>And a pie.<span style=""> </span>Looooove blackberry pie!<span style=""> </span>Will need to run a lot more, then…</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I found a cute little wildflower and looked it up after arriving home.<span style=""> </span>Downy rattlesnake<span style=""> plantain</span>.<span style=""> </span>Named so because the American Indians used it to treat rattlesnake bites! Anyway, It is growing at the edge of a heavily-wooded trail and I looked around but saw no similar plants so I can’t imagine how it ended up there.<span style=""> </span>The small, dark green leaves heavily veined with white were very noticeable.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZI2kXZ9lXk4/ThZpD0pXKdI/AAAAAAAABTA/MFvdJCNYrSI/s1600/IMG_2979.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZI2kXZ9lXk4/ThZpD0pXKdI/AAAAAAAABTA/MFvdJCNYrSI/s320/IMG_2979.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626800298838665682" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">From what I have read, the stalk growing from the center will have tiny white flowers.<span style=""> </span>So adorable!<span style=""> </span>Note the poison ivy clustered around it, though.<span style=""> </span><u>Not</u> so adorable. I am marking it so that I can watch the flower bloom, but since I have read that is rare and shouldn't be collected it will stay in its place.
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Back to my run this morning. The woods start about ¼ mile from our house, so when I emerged from them this morning the sun was glaring above the meadow trail that leads home.<span style=""> </span>It was a long trip back to the house, but when I came in the door into the kitchen I was hit with a wonderful aroma.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Eating Well</i>’s BBQ Pulled Chicken is a favorite, and I started it just before leaving earlier.<span style=""> </span>Although most often eaten as a sandwich, we enjoy it spooned over cornbread. I make dry cornbread.<span style=""> </span>:(<span style=""> </span>There’s so much butter or oil in the recipes that taste good, and I usually opt for the less-spectacular lowfat cornbread and use it as a base for something saucy.<span style=""> </span>Or for a stuffing.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I prepared the recipe mostly as is directed; only adding a cornstarch slurry during the final half hour to thicken the sauce.<span style=""> </span>And more chipotle powder, of course.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <h2>Barbecue Pulled Chicken<o:p></o:p></h2> <p><a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/barbecue_pulled_chicken.html">http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/barbecue_pulled_chicken.html</a></p><p>
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><em>From EatingWell: February/March 2006</em> <o:p></o:p></p> <p>This fanciful reinterpretation of pulled pork uses chicken and lots of tomato sauce. Have sliced jalapenos, sliced red onions and some sour cream on hand to top this hearty main course.</p><p>
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p><strong>8 servings </strong>| <strong>Active Time:</strong> 25 minutes | <strong>Total Time:</strong> 5 1/2 hours
<br /></p><p>
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <h3>Ingredients<o:p></o:p></h3> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 8-ounce can reduced-sodium tomato sauce<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 4-ounce can chopped green chiles, drained<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">3 tablespoons cider vinegar<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">2 tablespoons honey<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 tablespoon sweet or smoked paprika<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 tablespoon tomato paste<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">2 teaspoons dry mustard<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 teaspoon ground chipotle chile<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1/2 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">2 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of fat<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 small onion, finely chopped<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 clove garlic, minced</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></li></ul> <h3>Preparation<o:p></o:p></h3> <ol start="1" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Stir tomato sauce, chiles, vinegar, honey, paprika, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ground chipotle and salt in a 6-quart slow cooker until smooth. Add chicken, onion and garlic; stir to combine.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Put the lid on and cook on low until the chicken can be pulled apart, about 5 hours.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and shred with a fork. Return the chicken to the sauce, stir well and serve.</li></ol>
<br /><h3>Nutrition<o:p></o:p></h3> <p><strong>Per serving :</strong> 184 Calories; 8 g Fat; 2 g Sat; 3 g Mono; 68 mg Cholesterol; 8 g Carbohydrates; 20 g Protein; 1 g Fiber; 257 mg Sodium; 303 mg Potassium<o:p></o:p></p> <p>1/2 Carbohydrate Serving<o:p></o:p></p> <p><strong>Exchanges:</strong> 1/2 other carb., 2.5 lean meat</p><p>
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <h3>Tips & Notes<o:p></o:p></h3> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><strong>Make Ahead Tip</strong>: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.<o:p></o:p></li></ul>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQ6gcFLe5Q8/ThZlwoASLSI/AAAAAAAABS4/0TUU-uKh2uI/s1600/GrilledCornSaladPulledChicken.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQ6gcFLe5Q8/ThZlwoASLSI/AAAAAAAABS4/0TUU-uKh2uI/s320/GrilledCornSaladPulledChicken.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626796670492749090" border="0" /></a>
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} h1 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:1; font-size:24.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; font-weight:bold;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} p.pposted, li.pposted, div.pposted {mso-style-name:pposted; mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:692266150; mso-list-template-ids:1292938312;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal">My favorite accompaniment to the pulled chicken and cornbread is coleslaw, but today there is no cabbage in the refrigerator. I did find 3 ears of corn, bought a couple of days ago, so I made a grilled corn salad.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <h1><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/grilled_corn_salad/" title="Grilled Corn Salad"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Grilled Corn Salad</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></h1> <h3><span style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Ingredients</span><o:p></o:p></span></h3> <ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">4 ears of corn, do not shuck (or 2 1/2 cups frozen corn for the non-grill option)<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 large red bell pepper<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 5-inch long zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1/2 cup chopped red onion<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1/2 cup chopped cilantro<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 serrano chili pepper, seeded and minced (optional)<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 teaspoon ground cumin (best if you toast whole cumin seeds then grind)<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1/4 cup crumbly salty cheese such as feta or cotija (optional)<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">2 Tbsp olive oil<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">2 Tbsp cider vinegar or lime juice<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste</li></ul>
<br /><h3><span style="font-size:100%;">Method</span></h3> <p><b>1</b> Prepare your grill for high, direct heat. Oil the grill grates. Rub a little olive oil over the bell pepper. Place the corn (in their husks) and red bell pepper directly on the grill grates. Cover the grill. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>Turn corn occasionally, so that every part of the husk is blackened. Turn the red bell pepper occasionally until the skin has blistered up all around it. This should take 15 to 20 minutes. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>For the last 5 minutes or so, rub olive oil over the zucchini pieces and place the zucchini pieces directly on the grill grate, cut side down. Turn them over after a few minutes when they have some nice grill marks on them. Let them cook for just a minute or two on the other side.</p><p>
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p><b>1a - no grill version</b> Alternatively you can prepare the vegetables on the stove-top. Shuck the corn and use a knife to remove the kernels from the cobs. If you don't have fresh corn, you can easily use frozen. Coat the </p><p>bottom of a large, sturdy relatively stick-free (can use cast iron) pan with a little olive oil. Heat the pan to high. Spread out the corn kernels on the pan. If frozen, they will defrost almost immediately. Don't stir them that much, just let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to toast. When they get a little browned, remove them from the pan to a bowl. Lay the zucchini pieces on the pan and brown on both sides, do not over cook, remove from pan. The bell pepper does not need to be cooked, it can just be seeded and chopped fine.</p><p>
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p><b>2</b> Let the corn cool down for a few minutes and pull back the husks. Stand the corn husks vertically, tip facing down, in a large shallow bowl or baking dish. Use a sharp knife to make long, downward strokes, removing the kernels from the cob, as you work your way around the cob. <o:p></o:p></p> <p>Once the bell pepper has cooled a bit, remove the outer peel. Cut open the pepper, remove the seeds and stem.</p> <p> Chop the bell pepper into small pieces.<o:p></o:p></p> <p>Slice the slightly browned zucchini again lengthwise and chop into small pieces.</p><p>
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p><b>3</b> Place grilled or toasted corn kernels, chopped bell pepper, chopped zucchini, red onion, cilantro, and serrano (if using) into a large bowl. Add the cumin, olive oil, vinegar or lime juice, and crumbly cheese (if using). Mix gently. Salt and pepper to taste.<o:p></o:p></p> <p>Serve cold or at room temperature. Serves 4.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="pposted">Simply Recipes http://simplyrecipes.com</p><p class="pposted">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This is the way <u>all</u> fresh corn should be used!<span style=""> </span>It is so fresh and flavorful.<span style=""> </span>I came across this recipe the other day and tried it, even though I already have at least one grilled corn salad recipe in my files.<span style=""> </span>This one was darn good, and I may have to do a comparison and make both recipes the next time I buy fresh corn.<span style=""> </span>I used lime juice instead of vinegar, and a jalapeno subbed for the Serrano (although, while chopping the jalapeno, I remembered that I <u>did</u> have a Serrano chili in the refrigerator.<span style=""> </span>Somewhere.) . <span style=""> </span>I also didn’t have zucchini.<span style=""> </span>And I left out the cheese (intentionally, I’ve just been eating too much recently!).</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I pulled the silk out of the tops of the ears of corn, and took off the loose husks. My grill registered 400F, and I </p> <p class="MsoNormal">cooked the ears of corn for a total of 12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes. A few times I plucked off charred husks that had become loose.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">The corn and bell pepper near the end of the charring...er...grilling process:</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQnstyYw3wE/ThZjYloC83I/AAAAAAAABSw/xY8hzUoq0xQ/s1600/GrilledCornSalad1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQnstyYw3wE/ThZjYloC83I/AAAAAAAABSw/xY8hzUoq0xQ/s320/GrilledCornSalad1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626794058514101106" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">The peeled corn. I was surprised that, even though the outer husks were black, the corn kernels weren't. But they did have a very nice smoky flavor.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzffsRa1n-k/ThZgyDq2OYI/AAAAAAAABSo/l2VApD6TB4I/s1600/GrilledCornSalad2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzffsRa1n-k/ThZgyDq2OYI/AAAAAAAABSo/l2VApD6TB4I/s320/GrilledCornSalad2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626791197540759938" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">This would be an excellent side not only for the pulled chicken, but it would be great with any grilled food.<span style=""> </span>I will, at some point this summer, try adding chicken for a cold main dish that would make this perfect for a picnic. The addition of black beans would also be quite good, but since I no longer seem to be able to eat black beans without repercussions, I will merely <i style="">suggest</i> that addition.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am watching birds splashing themselves silly in our pond.<span style=""> </span>One little sparrow seems to be having a particularly wonderful time.<span style=""> </span>Dark clouds, however, are gathering in the west so it looks as though I need to get outside and take the clothes from the line.<span style=""> </span>92 degrees.<span style=""> </span>With any luck the rain will cool things down a bit, but will probably only add more humidity into the atmosphere.<span style=""> </span>Today is truly a Rosanna Rosannadanna hair day!</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><h3><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/04/Roseanne_Roseannadanna.PNG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 146px; height: 161px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/04/Roseanne_Roseannadanna.PNG" alt="" border="0" /></a></h3> <p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p> Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-82369199811856251772011-06-22T21:01:00.004-04:002011-06-22T21:21:58.818-04:00Thai Grilled Chicken Noodle Salad<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span>Two posts in 24 hours. Quite the feat! But this is an addendum to <a href="http://victoriasdays.blogspot.com/2011_06_21_archive.html">yesterday's post</a>. I used the Thai grilled chicken in a salad and it was quite awesome. :)<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-738UTNCiN00/TgKS4jnKaHI/AAAAAAAABSg/InlxbpP3vRw/s1600/ThaiGrilledChickenSalad.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-738UTNCiN00/TgKS4jnKaHI/AAAAAAAABSg/InlxbpP3vRw/s320/ThaiGrilledChickenSalad.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621216785241630834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />No recipe. I mixed rice noodles with slivered snap peas, shredded carrot, sliced scallions, and juilenned cucumbers with some of the dipping sauce. I divided this between 2 plates, added the sliced chicken, and drizzled more dressing, then sprinkled with chopped Thai basil. After the photo was taken, I sprinkled the salad with copped peanuts (which was a great idea).<br /><br />I think that, next time, I will add some slivered red bell pepper.<br /><br />The chicken was such a great recipe, there will be many more "next time"s!<br /><br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span>Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-72188609783604658062011-06-21T22:17:00.002-04:002011-06-21T22:27:19.166-04:00Big Al's Thai Grilled ChickenWell, long time no post… wow, almost 5 months?!? As “they” say—stuff happens. :) Busy stuff, crazy stuff, time-flying-by-at-the-speed-of-light stuff.<br /><br /><br />Tonight, however, I made something for dinner that was just too awesome not to share. Shoot, it may be another couple of months before I can post again so let’s make this a good one!<br /><br /><br />I was looking for some new “grill recipes” and found a small booklet which came with our (awesome) Broilmaster grill a few years ago. As I leafed through the recipes, I came across one called Big Al’s Thai Grilled Chicken. I am not sure just who Big Al is, but if this recipe is any indication of what the rest of them are like, I will have to refer to this little book often this summer.<br /><br /><br />Not sure, though, if I’m ready to make yeasty sticky buns on the grill, though!<br /><br /><br />Here’s the original recipe. I made a variation (using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and serving differently), which I will describe afterward.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Big Al’s Thai Grilled Chicken</span><br />Serves 8<br />From Grilling with Broilmaster<br /><br /><br />5 T Asian fish sauce<br />¼ cup light brown sugar<br />¼ cup canned coconut milk<br />2 T lime juice<br />2 T five-spice powder<br />2 T soy sauce<br />1 T crushed dried asian chilies<br />1 T curry powder<br />2 whole chickens, about 3 pounds each, quartered<br /><br /><br />hot cooked rice for 8<br /><br /><br />1 red onion, peeled and chopped<br />2 tomatoes, chopped<br />1 cucumber, peeled and chopped<br />8 large butter lettuce leaves<br /><br /><br />Dipping Sauce:<br /><br /><br />1 ½ cups rice wine vinegar<br />¾ cup sugar<br />2 T minced garlic<br />1 T red Vietnamese chili sauce<br /><br /><br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />Combine the fish sauce through the curry powder in a large plastic container; then add the chicken. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Turn every 12 hours for 2 days.</span><br /><br />Prepare the dipping sauce at least 2 hours in advance. Strain before using.<br /><br /><br />Preheat the grill to high and sear the chicken for about 2 minutes per side. Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook, turning and basting as needed, until the juices run clear when pierced with a fork (about 20 minutes).<br /><br /><br />Serve with the rice, onion, tomatoes, and cucumbers on a large leaf of butter lettuce with dipping sauce.<br /><br /><br /><br />Okay, first I’m not big on prepping whole chickens. And since we don’t really like dark meat, there’s a lot of waste. So I decided to use chicken breast, and had a bag of chicken tenders in the freezer.<br /><br /><br />I used 1-1/2 pounds of chicken tenders and halved the marinade ingredients. I used soy milk and ¼ teaspoon of coconut extract instead of the coconut milk (since I only needed 2 tablespoons, I didn’t want to open a can). I marinated the chicken tenders for 3 hours, and did not baste the chicken while it cooked since I didn’t need to sear it then cook for a long time (they took about 7 minutes to cook at a medium-high heat).<br /><br /><br />For the dipping sauce, I made 1/3 recipe and could have used more. I subbed sambal oelek for the chili sauce.<br /><br /><br />Now, for serving. My Bibb lettuce is still small, so we ended up piling the lettuce on our plates, topping with the chicken tenders, then cukes, tomatoes (I forgot the onion), and sauce. I added a large sprinkling of Thai basil as well, and that (IMO) really made the dish.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2wCtBXZjiYw/TgFSVnliZ2I/AAAAAAAABSY/MvcDD9DlZi4/s1600/Thai%2BGrilled%2BChicken.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2wCtBXZjiYw/TgFSVnliZ2I/AAAAAAAABSY/MvcDD9DlZi4/s320/Thai%2BGrilled%2BChicken.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620864341292246882" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Excellent, wonderful, stupendous meal! Very flavorful, very pretty to look at, and a definite repeater for this summer.<br /><br /><br />I made enough chicken for 2 more meals, and one will be lunch tomorrow. I plan to slice the chicken and serve it with rice noodles, chopped red pepper, chopped cuke, hoping to remember the onion (scallions, actually), and a sprinkling of peanuts as well as the Thai basil. And that delicious sauce.Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-49937878490028775932011-02-07T11:09:00.006-05:002011-02-08T21:44:26.109-05:00Potatoes and PoblanosOkay, the title leaves much to be desired. :) I adapted a recipe from<span style="font-style: italic;"> Cuisine at Home</span> which was found in Issue 85 Potato-Stuffed Poblanos. But I took the easy way out. My garden gave me a lot of poblano peppers last fall, and I roasted, peeled, seeded, and froze the lot for future use. Since the peppers now couldn't be stuffed, I chose to layer them with the potato mixture.
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<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">And, being me, I looked at the nutritional info on the bottom of the recipe and cringed a bit at the 26g of fat in each serving. So I made some changes. I decreased the amount of cheese slightly, and used Cabot's light cheddar; I eliminated the cream cheese and added more (light) sour cream and skim milk. I also made a few changes in the seasonings as well. The final recipe came through MasterCook at 7g total fat and I was skeptical so I recalculated, but it seems to be the correct numbers. Okay, so you who regularly use full-fat diary and have made this before may notice the substitutions of the light cheese and the light sour cream but </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><u style="font-family: georgia;">we</u></span><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"> thought this recipe was delicious. I do keep a package of grated sharp (full fat!) cheddar in the freezer to use in small amounts where I think that the extra cheese flavor would be nice, and in this recipe I sprinkled a mere tablespoon of that on the potato mixture along with the lowfat cheddar before baking and I think that it really added a nice cheesy “punch”. Excellent!</span>
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<br />For the side, I used the accompanying recipe from CAH and subbed Mexican oregano for the epazote, and added halved grape tomatoes. Oh, I also decreased the black beans (*sigh*) and increased the corn (Trader Joe's Frozen Roasted Corn).
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<br />A note on the photo, I forgot to garnish with reserve chopped scallions tops and that would have made this photo look better. As would a sprinkling of paprika. I seem to always forget the garnishes!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TVAhf39RrLI/AAAAAAAABR4/lkKAH526knM/s1600/Potato%2BStuffed%2BPoblanos.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TVAhf39RrLI/AAAAAAAABR4/lkKAH526knM/s320/Potato%2BStuffed%2BPoblanos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570989570537925810" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TVAhf39RrLI/AAAAAAAABR4/lkKAH526knM/s1600/Potato%2BStuffed%2BPoblanos.jpg">* Exported from MasterCook *</a>
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Potatoes and Poblanos</span>
<br />
<br />
<br />Servings: 2
<br />
<br />Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
<br />-------- ------------ --------------------------------
<br />
<br />2 large poblano pepper -- roasted, peeled, and seeded
<br />12 ounces potatoes
<br /> 1/2 cup sliced onion
<br />2 ounces Cabot 50% Reduced Fat Cheddar -- shredded, divided
<br /> 1/4 cup chopped scallions -- reserve about 1 tablespoon of the chopped, green tops for garnish)
<br />3 tablespoons green chili pepper -- (canned)
<br />2 tablespoons light sour cream
<br />2 tablespoons skim milk
<br />1 teaspoon garlic powder
<br /> 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
<br /> 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper
<br />2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
<br /> salt and pepper, to taste
<br />1 tablespoon shredded sharp cheddar cheese
<br />
<br />
<br />Preheat oven to 425F. Coat a baking dish with cooing spray.
<br />
<br />
<br />Boil the potatoes with the sliced onion until the potatoes are tender; drain and return to the pot. Stir the potatoes and onion over high heat for 30 seconds to evaporate excess moisture.
<br />
<br />
<br />Mash the potatoes and onions along with 2/3 cup of the cheese, most of the scallions, and the remaining ingredients through the chipotle pepper. Stir in the lime juice and season with salt & pepper.
<br />
<br />Lay 1/2 of the poblanos in the bottom of the baking dish. Dollop 1/2 of the potato mixture on top and carefully spread the mixture to cover the peppers. Lay the remaining peppers on top, then spread the rest of the potato mixture. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining lowfat cheese and the "regular" sharp cheddar.
<br />
<br />Bake for about 20 minutes or until cheese is golden (can also finish the dish under the broiler to brown the cheese a bit).
<br />
<br />Sprinkle with reserved scallion tops.
<br />
<br />
<br />Source:
<br />"adapted from Cuisine at Home, Issue #85"
<br />
<br /> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
<br />
<br />
<br />Per serving: 297 Calories (kcal); 7g Total Fat (5g Saturated); (18% calories from fat); 16g Protein; 45g Carbohydrate; 24mg Cholesterol; 234mg Sodium
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />* Exported from MasterCook *
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Bean and Corn Saute</span>
<br />
<br />
<br />Recipe By : Cuisine at Home
<br />Servings: 2
<br />
<br />Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
<br />-------- ------------ --------------------------------
<br />
<br />1 teaspoon canola oil
<br /> 1/2 cup diced onion
<br /> 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
<br />6 ounces black beans, cooked
<br /> 3/4 cup frozen corn kernels
<br /> 3/4 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano -- crumbled
<br /> 1/4 cup chopped scallions
<br />1 teaspoon minced garlic
<br /> 3/4 cup halved cherry tomato
<br />2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
<br /> salt and pepper to taste
<br />
<br />
<br />Heat oil in a small saute pan over medium-high heat. Add onin and cumin and cook until onion softens, about 4 minutes. Stir in the beans through garlic and stir until heated through. Add the tomatoes and stir for another minute. Add the lime juice, season with s & p, and stir for one additional minute.
<br />
<br />
<br />Source:
<br />"Cuisine at Home, Issue #85"
<br />
<br /> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
<br />
<br />
<br />Per serving: 223 Calories (kcal); 4g Total Fat; (13% calories from fat); 11g Protein; 41g Carbohydrate; 0mg Cholesterol; 12mg Sodium
<br />Food Exchanges: 2 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other CarbohydratesViccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-65061185364057588882011-02-03T21:39:00.003-05:002011-02-03T21:54:34.510-05:00Channa Masala<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="time"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Yesterday was Groundhog Day and Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow, so an early spring has been predicted.<span style=""> </span>The mere <u>hope</u> of saying farewell to winter, be it a day or a week or two weeks early, makes me want to dance.<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We had a few hours of spring yesterday morning as well.<span style=""> </span>The temps were in the mid-40’s for several hours, although they quickly fell and brought us back into winter.<span style=""> </span>Just after I woke, I went to a radiator in one of the upstairs rooms to say good morning to Spooky (who spends his nights under the covers with us, then for some reason will leave around <st1:time hour="7" minute="0">7am</st1:time> for the radiator in the next room).<span style=""> </span>I looked outside and saw a beautiful rainbow, even though it was not raining.<span style=""> </span>What a nice gift-- a rainbow in February! It was so beautiful, each band of color blending almost seamlessly into the other, and it stretched in a perfect arc.<span style=""> </span>If I had been dressed I would have been tempted to run outside to see if I could find the pot of gold at the end.<span style=""> </span>But… which end?<span style=""> </span>Anyway, as I watched the winds kicked up and a bank of dark clouds erased the rainbow.<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">By <st1:time hour="12" minute="0">noon</st1:time>, the temperature outside had started to fall and ominous clouds rolled in.<span style=""> </span>I noticed that I had just a small amount of cooked chickpeas in the freezer, so I decided to make channa masala for lunch.<span style=""> </span>I have used this recipe for several years and do not know the source, but it is a lunchtime favorite in winter.<span style=""> </span>Although probably not “authentic” to the dish, I like to add some vegetables so peas and bell pepper are added to the onion-spice-chickpea mixture.<span style=""> </span>This time I had a partial can of diced tomatoes in the refrigerator, so I used those instead of tomato sauce.<span style=""> </span>We both decided that we prefer the sauce.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The spice mixture of garam masala, coriander, cumin, ginger, and turmeric is very fragrant and this is a perfect dish to warm up with on a cold winter day.<span style=""> I used a mix of brown and white basmati rice.
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p>
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:.75in .75in .75in .75in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUtphTBhOMI/AAAAAAAABRw/d2MEj-RRCzo/s1600/Channa%2BMasala.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUtphTBhOMI/AAAAAAAABRw/d2MEj-RRCzo/s320/Channa%2BMasala.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569661384936995010" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Channa Masala</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Servings: 2<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>Amount<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Measure<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">--------<span style=""> </span>------------<span style=""> </span>--------------------------------</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon <span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>garam masala</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ground cumin</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>salt</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>turmeric</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ground coriander</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ground ginger</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/8<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cayenne pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>canola oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chopped onion</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chopped green bell pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>medium<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>garlic cloves -- crushed</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>8<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tomato sauce</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>8<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cooked chickpeas -- (about one 15-ounce can, drained)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>frozen green peas -- thawed</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chopped fresh cilantro</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chopped cashews</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Prepare rice, as desired.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Mix spices in a small cup and set aside.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heat oil in a saucepan and sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened.<span style=""> </span>Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Add the spice mixture and stir for a minute.<span style=""> </span>Pour in the tomato sauce and mix well, then add the green peas and chickpeas and stir.<span style=""> </span>When the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the hear, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Serve over hot, steamed rice.<span style=""> </span>Garnish with the cilantro and/ or cashews as desired.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 293 Calories (kcal); 6g Total Fat (1g saturated); (16% calories from fat); 14g Protein; 50g Carbohydrate; 0mg Cholesterol; 1257mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 2 1/2 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 2 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates<o:p></o:p></p> Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-72837455410595832112011-01-29T16:12:00.003-05:002011-01-29T16:33:42.831-05:00Turkey Pumpkin Chili
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal">There are two days remaining in the month of January and I cannot describe how happy I will be to see this month end.<span style=""> </span>And, only 28 days afterward, I will be even more joyous to say goodbye to February.<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We’ve had yet more snow, and another storm is predicted for this weekend.<span style=""> </span>Thankfully the temps are now up in the high 20’s rather than in the mid-teens (as last week), but it’s simply a depressing time of year.<span style=""> </span>I go outside to take short walks because I just cannot stand being indoors, but my exercise is relegated to the exercise bike (“biking to nowhere”).<span style=""> </span>And despite keeping a relatively regular schedule of using this, and logging in 12-14 miles at a time, I still feel as though I am carrying around this past holiday’s goodies around my waist.<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A lovely feeling, it is—dim, sluggish, heavy…<span style=""> </span>SPRING!<span style=""> </span>WHERE <u>ARE</u> YOU?!?!??!</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Cold days call for hearty meals.<span style=""> </span>Jack is still babying his cracked tooth, so I made chili the other day.<span style=""> </span>Pumpkin chili.<span style=""> </span>I really had intended to make this only once, because I need to continue to use last autumn’s windfall of pumpkins, but this recipe will be added to the ever-growing list of fresh pumpkin recipes that I want to repeat.<span style=""> </span>It looks like I will need to harvest a lot of pumpkins next year and, the way it usually goes, the upcoming fall pumpkin crop will probably be light.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This recipe was posted by Triathlon13 on the <i style="">Cooking Light</i> food forum when I asked for ideas to use fresh pumpkin.<span style=""> </span>She wrote that she adapted it “quite a bit to what we like”, and I did that to her recipe as well (and also to reflect what was on hand in my pantry).<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>I love beans, but they do not love me, so I didn’t use as much in the chili as I would have liked.<span style=""> </span>Also, I garnished with shredded lowfat cheddar, diced avocado, and a drizzle of sour cream thinned with skim milk.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It is a very good chili and the chunks of pumpkin add a nice (really, not at all odd) texture and flavor.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUSF-3d4KVI/AAAAAAAABRk/q23KbtXpNVg/s1600/Turkey%2BPumpkin%2BChili.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUSF-3d4KVI/AAAAAAAABRk/q23KbtXpNVg/s320/Turkey%2BPumpkin%2BChili.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567722354424424786" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><st1:country-region><st1:place><b style="">Turkey</b></st1:place></st1:country-region><b style=""> Pumpkin Chili</b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Servings: 6-8<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>Amount<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Measure<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">--------<span style=""> </span>------------<span style=""> </span>--------------------------------</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>olive oil </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>medium<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>onions -- finely chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span>large<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>bell pepper -- finely chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>medium<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>jalapeno pepper -- minced, optional</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>6<span style=""> </span>large<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>garlic cloves -- minced</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span>pound<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ground turkey</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>low sodium chicken broth</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>28<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>crushed tomatoes</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>14 1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces <span style=""> </span>tomato sauce</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>8<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>diced green chilis -- (canned)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chili powder (I used a mixture of medium-hot and ancho)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ground cumin</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Mexican oregano</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>16<span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>pumpkin – fresh; peeled, seeded, and chopped into 3/4" pieces</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>15<span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>canned black beans <span style=""> </span>drained and rinsed</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heat one tablespoon of the olive oil in a large pot, then sauté the onions through garlic over a medium-low flame until softened.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">While the vegetables cook, heat the other tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and cook the ground turkey, browning well.<span style=""> </span>Do not rinse out the skillet. Remove the ground turkey to a cutting board (do not rinse out the skillet) and chop into smaller pieces.
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add the chicken stock to the skillet and bring to a boil, scraping loose the browned bits of turkey in the pan.<span style=""> </span>Pour this into the softened vegetable mixture.<span style=""> </span>Then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chilies, and seasonings.<span style=""> </span>Bring to a boil over high heat, add the pumpkin, stir, cover, and reduce heat to medium and simmer for 40 minutes or until pumpkin is soft.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Using a potato masher (or a sturdy wooden spoon), mash the pumpkin chunks a little.<span style=""> </span>I did about 10 "mashes" through the pot. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.<span style=""> </span>Add the black beans, stir, and cook (uncovered) for 10 minutes.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Serve garnished with sour cream, chopped avocado, shredded cheese, minced onion, etc.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 333 Calories (kcal); 10g Total Fat (2g Saturated); (25% calories from fat); 25g Protein; 39g Carbohydrate; 60mg Cholesterol; 693mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain(Starch); 2 1/2 Lean Meat; 3 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">NOTES : Adjust hot peppers or add hot sauce to desired heat level.</p> Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-81962507644392385542011-01-26T21:04:00.005-05:002011-01-26T21:30:00.952-05:00Crockpot Thai Chicken<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">About 15 years ago I bought a crockpot.<span style=""> </span>Not to cook with, but to anneal glass beads because I had taken a class and the process of glass bead making was my creative distraction for a few years.<span style=""> </span>Annealing is the process of cooling glass slowly.<span style=""> </span>I would form the beads on metal rods over a flame, then push them into a crockpot of warm vermiculite for a day to very slowly cool.<span style=""> </span>But eventually life took over and I found less and less time to make glass beads (I was also never terribly comfortable with lighting the gas torch, always being afraid that something would explode or I would catch my clothes on fire…).</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">A few years ago I dug out the crockpot again to make a pulled barbequed chicken.<span style=""> </span>It was a great recipe, but I never think to use the crockpot because I have a mindset that these slow-cooker recipes are for busy Moms who are at work or shuttling children around and need to make easy meals for their families.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">I am reconsidering that stand.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">A few days ago Jack cracked a tooth and it will be a few weeks until he can have it repaired, so I have been making “soft meals”.<span style=""> </span>Most of said meals featured ground turkey (meatloaf, chili, spaghetti w/ meat sauce, etc.) and, although I was able to fill in around these with macaroni & cheese, Indian veggie curry, broiled tilapia, etc., I wanted chicken.<span style=""> </span>I came across a crockpot recipe describing the chicken as “falling-apart tender” and decided to give it a try.<span style=""> </span>In my inbox had recently received a recipe for Crockpot Pad Thai and used this recipe as a base to make Crockpot Thai Chicken.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Falling-apart tender is a perfect description of how this chicken in this dish turned out.<span style=""> </span>I cut some vegetables and placed them in the slow cooker, then added browned chicken breasts that had been cut into large pieces (about 2-3 ounces each, since I have a bag of monster 10-12 ounce chicken breasts in the freezer).<span style=""> </span>Over this I poured a sauce comprised of a very good mixture of chicken stock, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar and garlic.<span style=""> </span>The chicken and vegetables cooked in this, on high, for 4 hours and the result was utterly delicious.<span style=""> </span>I served it on steamed basmati rice, then squeezed some lime juice over and chopped peanuts.<span style=""> </span>Cilantro would have made a great addition, but I had none.<span style=""> </span>:(</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">I have to admit that the sweet potatoes and the bell peppers became very soft, but the carrot and white potatoes stayed nice and firm.<span style=""> </span>I’ll just have to play with the types of vegetables used, but I really enjoyed the flavor of the sweet potatoes (even though they somewhat disintegrated) so I’ll keep them in.<span style=""> </span>As I was preparing the vegetables, I only weighed them instead of measuring.<span style=""> </span>I figured that I would be adjusting the recipe, not posting it yet, but it turned out so well that I’ll just come back in the future and add the measurements in addition to the ounces.</p> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUDXqhdH8oI/AAAAAAAABRU/IN08qVSupIc/s1600/Crockpot%2BThai%2BChicken2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUDXqhdH8oI/AAAAAAAABRU/IN08qVSupIc/s320/Crockpot%2BThai%2BChicken2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566686264964936322" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">* Exported from MasterCook *</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b style="">
<br /></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b style="">Crockpot Thai Chicken<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Recipe By: Vicci</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Servings: 4<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Amount<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Measure<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">--------<span style=""> </span>------------<span style=""> </span>--------------------------------</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>olive oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>20<span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>boneless skinless chicken breast -- cut in large hunks, about 8 total</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>12<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>sweet potato -- cut into 1 1/2" pieces</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>10<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>white potato -- cut into 1 1/2" pieces</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>6<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>onion -- cut into 1" pieces</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>6<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>carrot -- cut into 1" pieces</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>10<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>bell pepper -- cut into 1" pieces</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>low sodium chicken broth</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>low sodium soy sauce</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>fish sauce</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>brown sugar</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>large<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>garlic cloves -- minced</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Sriracha sauce -- optional</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>fresh lime juice</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chopped peanuts</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Heat the olive on in a large skillet and brown the chicken pieces on top only.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Mix the vegetables in the crockpot.<span style=""> </span>Place the chicken pieces on top.</p> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUDV2udMTLI/AAAAAAAABRM/0VEFfhdUe00/s1600/Crockpot%2BThai%2BChicken1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TUDV2udMTLI/AAAAAAAABRM/0VEFfhdUe00/s320/Crockpot%2BThai%2BChicken1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566684275590057138" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">In a small saucepan, bring the broth through optional Sriracha sauce to a boil.<span style=""> </span>Pour over the chicken.<span style=""> </span>Cover and cook on High for 4 hours.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
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<br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Note:<span style=""> </span>If you want a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of water and 1-1/2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a small cup and add, stirring, to the crockpot mixture when there is about 5 minutes or so of cooking time remaining.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Before serving, stir in lime juice.<span style=""> </span>Serve over rice.<span style=""> </span>Sprinkle with chopped peanuts.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Per serving: 402 Calories (kcal); 8g Total Fat (1g Saturated); (17% calories from fat); 38g Protein; 45g Carbohydrate; 82mg Cholesterol; 1067mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Food Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain(Starch); 5 Lean Meat; 2 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
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<br />Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-90021430039438489862011-01-23T21:25:00.007-05:002011-01-23T22:10:45.461-05:00“Sausage” and Rice-Stuffed Pumpkin<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal">I am freezing.<span style=""> </span>We have had a few horrible days of frigid weather, lows near 0 and highs not out of the teens.<span style=""> </span>When I came downstairs to make breakfast this morning, the kitchen was at 51 degrees.<span style=""> </span>The radiators are cranking out heat, but it seems way colder than the 64F to which the thermostat is set.<span style=""> </span>My nose is cold.<span style=""> </span>We have to reheat our meals in the microwave when we’re halfway through eating.<span style=""> </span>And it’s only January…<span style=""> </span>*sigh* </p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">This makes me question our desire to retire to the north coast of Massachusetts. Shouldn't old folks go <span style="font-style: italic;">south</span>???
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<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">No wonder that I still have the Christmas tree up.<span style=""> </span>Its lights sparkle in the corner during these long, cold evenings and it makes me happy.<span style=""> </span>I suppose that I will make motions to start taking it down later this week sometime, and I plan to have it totally disassembled by February 1<sup>st</sup>, but I’m only doing it grudgingly.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">No surprise, then, that our dinners lately have been cooked in the oven; baked stuffed pumpkin, oven-“fried” chicken, meatloaf, pizza, etc.<span style=""> </span>Anything for a little extra heat.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My pumpkin crop of 2010 was a very good one, and I still have about 16 smallish pumpkins in the basement.<span style=""> </span>Since eating a pumpkin once a week would take us several weeks, I decided to get on finding and trying out some recipes that feature fresh pumpkin.<span style=""> </span>I love pumpkin, but once spring arrives (oh, please make it soon!) I would like to be focusing on other, more seasonal veggies.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The idea for this dish originated from a Dorie Greenspan recipe but I made several changes and will now claim it as my own.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The pumpkin was cut, de-seeded, and the stringy stuff scraped out (as though I was preparing to make a jack o’ lantern) then filled with a mixture of brown basmati rice, “sausage”, shallot, spinach, and cheese and baked.<span style=""> </span>What an absolutely delicious meal this was, hearty and warming on a cold winter evening.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I have “sausage” in quotes above because I used Morningstar Farms Sausage-style recipe crumbles.<span style=""> </span>I know I have mentioned them in earlier posts, and we are in love with them.<span style=""> </span>Really.<span style=""> </span>I use these in soups, on pizza, in any recipe that I would use crumbled Italian sausage, and with 1/6 of the fat of the “regular” Italian sausage I can use as much as I want.<span style=""> </span>Sub regular, browned and drained Italian sausage if you so desire.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’m going to experiment with this recipe next time and add chopped mushrooms and/or finely chopped red bell pepper (sautéed with the shallots), and I think that sprinkling each serving with chopped, toasted walnuts would be great.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It was, all said, an easy recipe and I am very glad that I have more pumpkins to try some variations with.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><b style="">“Sausage” and Rice-Stuffed Pumpkin</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Recipe By: Vicci</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Servings: 2</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Amount<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Measure <span style=""> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">--------<span style=""> </span>------------<span style=""> </span>--------------------------------</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2 1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>pounds<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>pumpkin -- (small cooking pumpkin)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2/3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>brown rice -- cooked without salt or fat (I used brown basmati)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chopped shallot</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>baby spinach leaves</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Morningstar Farms Sausage-Style Recipe Crumbles</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/8<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cayenne pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/8<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ground black pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>salt</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>thyme</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>dried sage</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Jarlsberg cheese -- shredded</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup <span style=""> </span>low-sodium vegetable stock</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2 <span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>skim milk</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">DIRECTIONS:</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Cook the rice and cool slightly.</p> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzqtSGUErI/AAAAAAAABQ0/KabyoD-9Gks/s1600/StuffedPumpkin1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzqtSGUErI/AAAAAAAABQ0/KabyoD-9Gks/s320/StuffedPumpkin1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565581303196422834" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Cut the top off of the pumpkin, like you are making a jack 'o lantern.<span style=""> </span>Keep the knife at a 45-degree angle so the "lid" will stay on top during cooking and not fall onto the filling.<span style=""> </span>Remove the seeds and scrape the inside with a spoon to get rid of the stringy stuff.<span style=""> </span>Season with ground pepper and set on a baking sheet that has been covered with foil and sprayed with cooking oil spray.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Preheat the oven to 350F</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Over low heat, sauté the shallot in a large nonstick skillet (add some olive oil to prevent sticking, if necessary.<span style=""> </span>When the shallot softens (about 2 minutes) add garlic and continue to sauté for 30 seconds.<span style=""> </span>Add the spinach and stir until it is wilted.<span style=""> </span>Add seasonings, cooked rice, sausage crumbles and mix.<span style=""> </span>Stir in vegetable broth then cheese.</p>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzptW54YZI/AAAAAAAABQs/OScsoMP0410/s1600/StuffedPumpkin2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzptW54YZI/AAAAAAAABQs/OScsoMP0410/s320/StuffedPumpkin2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565580204974825874" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzoqpb63XI/AAAAAAAABQk/DROgus0gR2k/s1600/StuffedPumpkin3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzoqpb63XI/AAAAAAAABQk/DROgus0gR2k/s320/StuffedPumpkin3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565579058898197874" border="0" /></a>
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Spoon the rice mixture into the pumpkin to about 1/2" below the top (this filled a 2-2/1 pound pumpkin nicely).<span style=""> </span>Pour the milk over top, cover with the pumpkin "lid" and place in the oven.</p>
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<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Bake for 40 minutes and remove the cap.<span style=""> </span>Continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the pumpkin, when pierced with a toothpick, is soft.<span style=""> </span>Remove from oven and allow to sit on the sheet for 5 minutes (if there is liquid on top of the pumpkin filling, use a small spoon and mix it in the top layer a bit).</p> <p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzn2OFRJDI/AAAAAAAABQc/1uY6flSxghE/s1600/StuffedPumpkin4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzn2OFRJDI/AAAAAAAABQc/1uY6flSxghE/s320/StuffedPumpkin4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565578158202233906" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Slice the pumpkin into wedges and serve from the baking sheet, or use 2 heavy, large spatulas to transfer the cooked pumpkin carefully to a waiting cutting board or serving platter.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 704 Calories (kcal); 16g Total Fat (5g saturated); (19% calories from fat); 44g Protein; 102g Carbohydrate; 26mg Cholesterol; 1354mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 5 1/2 Grain(Starch); 1 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzkFsHwXnI/AAAAAAAABQU/Azo_UpKFGNs/s1600/StuffedPumpkin5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTzkFsHwXnI/AAAAAAAABQU/Azo_UpKFGNs/s320/StuffedPumpkin5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565574025917259378" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Isn't this pretty? And delicious, too</span>!
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<br />I will definitely add some red bell pepper next time for color, and perhaps up the quantity of spinach as bit as well. I can't wait to make this again (and keep the oven on for a bit of heat as well!).
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<br />Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-4731354429011218752011-01-14T22:32:00.005-05:002011-01-14T22:44:35.297-05:00Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew with Couscous<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} span.vseparator {mso-style-name:vseparator;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:768626264; mso-list-template-ids:-1777066490;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l1 {mso-list-id:1861047817; mso-list-template-ids:-578807824;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <h3><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="font-weight: normal;" class="MsoNormal">The holidays seemed to fly by again this year.<span style=""> </span>I didn’t post a single entry here for over a month because there was so much else to do, but during these long winter nights I am documenting each cookie/ cake/ candy recipe I prepared.<span style=""> </span>With any luck, in November I will remember that I did this and post the recipes and my reviews.<span style=""> </span>The grand total was 17 different types of cookies, four of candy, a cake and a tart.<span style=""> </span>And <i style="">that</i> is why I didn’t have the time to post my baking adventures this past year.</p><p style="font-weight: normal;" class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p style="font-weight: normal;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p style="font-weight: normal;" class="MsoNormal">We are now in mid-January and since I’ve rid the freezer of those leftover treats, I am now ready to get back to my usual healthy eating.<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p style="font-weight: normal;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p style="font-weight: normal;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p style="font-weight: normal;" class="MsoNormal">I found the following recipe in the December issue of <i style="">Real Simple </i>magazine.<span style=""> </span>I made a few changes, and both Jack and I enjoyed this for lunch one cold winter day.<span style=""> </span>The recipe below highlights my changes in blue.<span style=""> </span>In my opinion, the additional cumin, the crushed red pepper, and the almonds are absolutely essential.<o:p></o:p></p> </h3><h3>
<br /></h3><h3 style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTEXgxNY-UI/AAAAAAAABQM/ggy40NaJ9mY/s1600/CauliChickpeaStew1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TTEXgxNY-UI/AAAAAAAABQM/ggy40NaJ9mY/s320/CauliChickpeaStew1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562252866512025922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;">Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew with Couscous</span></h3> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal">Serves 4<span class="vseparator">| </span>Hands-On Time: 25m <span class="vseparator">| </span>Total Time: 35m </p> <h3 style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Ingredients</span></h3> <ul style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">2 tablespoons olive oil</li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p></o:p>1 medium onion, chopped
<br /></li><li style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" class="MsoNormal">1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin (I used 2 teaspoons) and then added<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (unless you like spicy food, though, I would suggest 1/4t)</span><o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1/2 teaspoon ground ginger<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">kosher salt and black pepper<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">(I used canned, diced tomatoes)</span><o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed *<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 head cauliflower, rinsed and separated into pieces <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">(about 14 ounces)</span></li><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">I added 3 ounces diagonally-sliced carrot</span><o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1/2 cup raisins (ick.<span style=""> </span>I didn’t add these—I hate cooked raisins!)<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 5-ounce package baby spinach, chopped<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/ingredients-guide/spinach-00000000039371/index.html"><span style="text-decoration: none;"></span></a><o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">1 cup couscous<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/ingredients-guide/couscous-00000000039302/index.html"><span style="text-decoration: none;"></span></a> <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">(I used whole wheat couscous)</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">¼ cup slivered, toasted almonds<o:p></o:p></li></ul> <h3 style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Directions</span></h3> <ol style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" start="1" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften, 4 to 5 minutes. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Add the cumin, ginger, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 1 minute.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Add the tomatoes (crushing with your hands as you add them, <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">obviously not necessary if you use canned diced tomatoes</span>) and their liquid, chickpeas, cauliflower, raisins, and ½ cup water <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">(I used vegetable broth)</span> and bring to a boil. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender and the liquid has slightly thickened, 15 to 20 minutes.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Fold in the spinach and cook until just wilted, 1 to 2 minutes.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Meanwhile, place the couscous in a large bowl. Add 1 cup of hot tap water, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Serve with the stew, and sprinkle almonds over top. </li></ol> Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-68258449539856840362011-01-11T15:53:00.004-05:002011-01-11T16:08:33.918-05:00Roasted Sweet Potato Soup<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">We are at the beginning of yet another winter snowstorm (enough already!<span style=""> </span>But… it’s only January…) and I am hoping to get through the next week or so without having to go out to the store.<span style=""> </span>It’s a little dicey on the milk front, but I think that we will have enough to eat otherwise.<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Honestly, it’s not as though we’re expecting a huge amount of snow (and I’m remembering the 2-1/2 feet we got in 2 days last February), but I washed the car recently.<span style=""> </span>:)<span style=""> </span>It’s a black car, and looked grey for the holidays because the temps were too cold to even think about dragging the hose outside.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Anyway, this is soup weather.<span style=""> </span>A friend posted a recipe for <a href="http://community.cookinglight.com/showthread.php?t=136891&page=3">Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Fresh Rosemary</a> the other day, and I though I’d give it a go.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">She did remark, however, that she thought the soup was a little bland.<span style=""> </span>My first inclination was to add a diced chipotle pepper, sub lime for lemon juice, and add some fresh cilantro in lieu of rosemary.<span style=""> </span>Alas, I have no fresh limes or cilantro on hand.<span style=""> </span>I did have a half lemon in the refrigerator, so I used that and made a few more changes.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Jack and I both thought that it was excellent soup, thick and very flavorful.<span style=""> </span>I garnished with a swirl of thinned sour cream and some smoked paprika which I have to say is <u>essential</u>.<span style=""> </span>Because I didn’t want to heat the big stove, I halved the recipe and used my toaster oven to roast only a pound of sweet potatoes.<span style=""> </span>Not a good idea, I would have loved to have the leftovers tomorrow.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The original recipe used a crock pot, but I made it on the stovetop.<span style=""> </span>Here is my version:</p>
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<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TSzFD2cdP0I/AAAAAAAABQE/wZs0z9bbxDk/s1600/Roasted%2BSweet%2BPotato%2BSoup.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TSzFD2cdP0I/AAAAAAAABQE/wZs0z9bbxDk/s320/Roasted%2BSweet%2BPotato%2BSoup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561036309840871234" border="0" /></a>
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:.75in .75in .75in .75in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Roasted Sweet Potato Soup</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Servings: 4</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Amount<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Measure<span style=""> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">--------<span style=""> </span>------------<span style=""> </span>--------------------------------</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span>pounds<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>sweet potatoes -- peeled, cut in cubes</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tbsp<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>olive oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>salt</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>small<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>onion -- chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>medium<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>carrot -- chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>stalk<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>celery -- chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>large<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>garlic cloves -- finely chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1 1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>fresh rosemary -- chopped, or 1/2 tsp dried</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>dried thyme -- crushed</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cayenne pepper -- (or 1/2 teaspoon for more spice)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>freshly-ground black pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cups <span style=""> </span>low-salt chicken broth</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cups<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>water</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tbsp<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>lemon juice</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>lowfat cream cheese</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>skim milk</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>smoked paprika</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In a bowl, mix the sweet potatoes with half the oil and half the salt. Spread the sweet potatoes on an oiled baking sheet and roast at 450F for around 20 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In the meantime, heat the rest of the oil at medium heat in a skillet. Add the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, chopped rosemary, crushed thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and the rest of the salt and cook, stirring, for about 8 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.<span style=""> </span>Add the broth, water, and roasted sweet potato cubes. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to simmer, and cook for 20 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In a food processor or blender (or, best, an immersion blender), puree the soup until thickened.<span style=""> </span>Add water to think to desired consistency, if desired.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In a small cup, whisk the sour cream and milk together.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Divide the soup between 4 bowls, using a spoon place a swirl of the thinned sour cream on top, and sprinkle with smoked paprika.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Yield:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>"6 cups"</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 297 Calories (kcal); 11g Total Fat (2g Saturated); (28% calories from fat); 13g Protein; 48g Carbohydrate; 4mg Cholesterol; 391mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 2 1/2 Grain(Starch); 1 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">A thought… I have a lot of pumpkins in the basement (2010 was a very good pumpkin harvest in the garden) and I just may try this soup next using pumpkin.</p> Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-80417766280269780732011-01-05T07:58:00.002-05:002011-01-05T08:13:06.970-05:00Potato & Kale Soup with "Sausage"Happy New Year!
<br />
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I've been absent for a while (holiday madness, among other lame and not-so-lame excuses), and will try to be better about posting.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">While on vacation seventeen months ago (yes, I remember exactly when) our vegetarian friend<span style=""> Karla </span>:)<span style=""> </span>prepared a strata for breakfast and used a product I had never seen before, sausage-style recipe crumbles from Morningstar Farms.<span style=""> </span>Breakfast was delicious, I thought that this imitation sausage tasted very much like the real thing, but I simply could not find the product in any stores.<span style=""> </span>I looked in every grocery store around our area and also when visiting my parents and while on vacation, but <i style="">nothing</i>.<span style=""> </span>I made it a habit over the past months to look for these, occasionally, while grocery shopping.<span style=""> </span>And a few weeks ago, a Christmas miracle, I glanced in the freezer case in WalMart without much hope and saw, stacked on a shelf, a beautiful <span style=""> </span>halo of gold light shining around a certain green package—the “sausage” crumbles I had been searching for!<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A joyful time it was, indeed.<span style=""> </span>In deference to others who may have been searching for the exact same thing, I held back and limited myself to 10 packages.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Textured vegetable protein, having the same taste and texture as crumbled Italian sausage, but with a mere 2.5 grams of total fat and <u>no</u> saturated fat per 2/3 cup serving?<span style=""> </span>How can it be?<span style=""> </span>Magic.<span style=""> </span>There can be no other explanation.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Our favorite way to eat this (so far) is on pizza, but I made a soup today that was incredible—hearty and delicious.<span style=""> </span>Also this is one of the very few soups that my husband deems “excellent”.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Sorry, Jenni, it has kale in it.<span style=""> </span>But you can sub spinach, I’m sure.<span style=""> </span>;)</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Chunks of potato and greens join the “sausage” in a thick broth spiced with ground chipotle.<span style=""> </span>And cheese on top.<span style=""> </span>Perfect for a winter meal.<span style=""> </span>And really, perfect for any time because not only is this soup low in fat, it also contains 6 grams of fiber and 24 grams of protein, plus a nice 24% chunk of your total calcium requirement for a day, 145% of daily vitamin C and 102% of vitamin A.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Oh <i style="">when</i> will there be a delicious brownie to equal these nutrition readings?<span style=""> </span>Hmmmm?</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TSRtPjz35YI/AAAAAAAABP8/O81aban0jrI/s1600/Potato%2BKale%2BSoup%2Bw%2BSausage.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TSRtPjz35YI/AAAAAAAABP8/O81aban0jrI/s320/Potato%2BKale%2BSoup%2Bw%2BSausage.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558687954160313730" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Potato & Kale Soup with "Sausage"</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Recipe By:<span style=""> </span>Vicci</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Servings<span style=""> </span>: 6<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">Amount<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Measure <span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">--------<span style=""> </span>------------<span style=""> </span>--------------------------------</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span>olive oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1 1/4 <span style=""> </span>cups<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>finely chopped onion</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2 <span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>medium<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>garlic clove -- minced</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>8<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cups<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>low-sodium defatted chicken broth</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>24<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>white potatoes -- peeled and chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>salt</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1 1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>dried Italian herbs -- crushed</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ground chipotle pepper -- (can sub smoked paprika for less spice)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>3/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>pound<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>kale -- washed, thick ribs removed, and chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1 1/2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cups<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Morningstar Farms Sausage-Style Recipe Crumbles</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>ounces<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Parmesan cheese -- grated</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heat oil in a large nonstick saucepan over medium-low heat.<span style=""> </span>Add the onion and cook, stirring often, for about 5 minutes, or onion is tender and golden.<span style=""> </span>Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for another minute.<span style=""> </span>Stir in broth, potatoes, salt, and herbs and cook, partially covered, until potato is tender.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Using a potato masher or a large wooden spoon, partially mash the cubed potatoes in broth.<span style=""> </span>Stir in the chipotle pepper then the kale.<span style=""> </span>Return to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer (partially covered) for 8.<span style=""> </span>Add the "sausage" and stir.<span style=""> </span>Cook for an additional 10 minutes on medium-low heat.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Divide soup between soup bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan and, if desired, ground black pepper.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 289 Calories (kcal); 8g Total Fat (2g Saturated Fat); (25% calories from fat); 24g Protein; 31g Carbohydrate; 7mg Cholesterol; 1574mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 1 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p> Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4261956274659326930.post-83021587792533987382010-11-21T13:21:00.002-05:002010-11-21T13:42:56.452-05:00King Prawn Korma<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Still cleaning out the freezers…<span style=""> </span>:)</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am quite embarrassed to reveal that one recent dinner came as a result of my finding a bag of jumbo butterflied shrimp, in the bottom of the bottom-most basket in the biggest freezer, which had been there since July 2009.<span style=""> </span>*blush*<span style=""> </span>I’ve come across it on occasion, and was “saving” the shrimp for grilling, but I cleaned and covered our grill last week.<span style=""> </span>I also thought that it probably should be cooked in a sauce since it may not have the best flavor or texture after being frozen for so long.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In one of my favorite cookbooks, <i style="">Curry, Fire & Spice </i>by Mridula Baljekar, I found a recipe for King Prawn Korma which fit the bill nicely.<span style=""> </span>It was also a snap to make.<span style=""> </span>The shrimp were surprisingly good, just a little tough, but the flavor of the sauce more than made up for it.<span style=""> </span>I served the shrimp over rice with some vegetables also sautéed in Indian spices.<span style=""> </span>I soooo adore Indian food!<span style=""> </span>:)</p>
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 10"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CVicci%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TOlm5KagXQI/AAAAAAAABPw/Y-lSzMuATG8/s1600/PrawnKorma.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gPqBL5QRqXk/TOlm5KagXQI/AAAAAAAABPw/Y-lSzMuATG8/s320/PrawnKorma.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542073948690210050" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">* Exported from MasterCook *</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">King Prawn Korma</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Recipe By: Mridula Baljekar</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Servings: 4<span style="">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>Amount<span style=""> </span>Measure<span style=""> </span>Ingredient -- Preparation Method</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">--------<span style=""> </span>------------<span style=""> </span>--------------------------------</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>pound<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>jumbo shrimp -- (about 10-12) Peeled and deveined; well-drained if </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>previously frozen</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoons<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>plain yogurt</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>paprika</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>garam masala</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tomato paste</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1/4<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>coconut milk</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chili powder</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2/3<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cup<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>water</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>canola oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>crushed garlic</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>teaspoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>grated ginger root</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span>piece<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>cinnamon stick -- 1"; halved</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>2<span style=""> </span>whole<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>green cardamom pods</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=""> </span>1<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>tablespoon<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>chopped fresh cilantro</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Mix yogurt through chili powder in a bowl.<span style=""> </span>Slowly add water and whisk until combined.<span style=""> </span>Season with salt, if desired.<span style=""> </span>Set aside.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heat the oil in a wok and add the garlic through cardamom and fry over low heat for 1-2 minutes (do not allow spices to burn).<span style=""> </span>Pour in the yogurt mixture and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.<span style=""> </span>Add the prawns and cook, stirring constantly, until sauce starts to thicken and prawns are opaque.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Served over hot steamed rice, sprinkle with cilantro.</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Source:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>"Curry<span style=""> </span>Fire & Spice: Over 150 Great Curries from <st1:country-region><st1:place>India</st1:place></st1:country-region> and <st1:place>Asia</st1:place>"</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Per serving: 197 Calories (kcal); 9g Total Fat (4g Saturated); (43% calories from fat); 24g Protein; 4g Carbohydrate; 173mg Cholesterol; 214mg Sodium</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Food Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 3 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">NOTES : I used lowfat yogurt and light coconut milk.</p><p class="MsoNormal">*I also stirred in 1/2 teaspoon of coconut extract just before serving to "punch up" the coconut flavor.*
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">*Note to Vicci the Forgetful-- place the coconut extract bottle on one of the dinner plates so you don't forget this step.<span style=""> </span>:)
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Also added red pepper flakes at the table.<span style=""> </span></p> Viccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15836119827196914412noreply@blogger.com0