Shars Home cookin'

GROCERY BAGS

2011-12-15T10:58:00.001-08:00

I've taken on a new hobby of making/selling cloth grocery bags.. keeping with the theme of food! :)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/HomeMadeByShar

Almond Cookie Bite

2011-11-07T13:30:00.000-08:00

These are really good! but boy it doesn't make much. i would double the recipe. this one only made me 9 !!

ingredients:

1 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup butter

1 egg

1/2 tsp almond extract

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 cup flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/8 tsp baking soda

1/2 cup chopped almonds

Almond glaze

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1/4 tsp almond extract

enough milk to make a glaze ( 2-3 tsp)

[mix together in a bowl]

Directions:

preheat oven to 325. line 9 muffin cups with paper bake cups

In a small saucepan, stir brown sugar and butter over med heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat, cool slightly, add in egg, almond extract and vanilla

in a small bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda. Add the brown sugar mixture, stir together with 1/3 cup of the chopped almonds.

Spoon batter into each cup. sprinkle with remaining almonds.

Bake 13-15 min until browned. cool on rack for 5 min. drizzle almond glaze.

bacon perogies

2011-11-07T09:37:00.001-08:00

this recipe is just so basic and easy...

Ingredients:

bag of Perogies [potato and cheddar is my choice]

half a package of bacon

one onion

2 tsp butter

cream of mushroom soup

salt/pepper to taste

=====

Boil the perogies as directed on bag. Drain

cook bacon & saute onions in some butter

mix together with one can of mushroom soup.

Bake at 350 for 20 minutes in the oven.

serve with sour cream if desired.

Chunky Salsa

2011-07-20T14:06:00.002-07:00

i really wanted to create my own salsa, one that i 'love' that has all the things i love.. and this is what i came up with. it's yummy!

this recipe makes 24 - 250 mL jars of salsa

remember, recipe doesn't 'need' to be canned.. cut the recipe down and make it for the fridge. or cut in half and freeze it.. canning just keeps it a fresh taste.

INGREDIENTS:

30 tomatoes

1 jalapeno pepper

3 green peppers

3 corn on the cob

1/2 bunch of cilantro (more if you like the taste, i prefer subtle)

1 chopped onion

1/2 chopped red onion

4 cloves of garlic, chopped or minced

1 cup of salsa spices mix ( by epicure) (optional)

1 can (2 cups) tomato paste

1 can (2 cups) tomato sauce - onion, herbs and spices

1/2 cup chilli seeds (more if you like spicy hot, this is just a nice mild/med)

1/3 cup olive oil

1/4 cup vinegar

salt for taste

Directions:

roast your green peppers by placing them on a cookie sheet and broiling on high for 15 minutes in the oven. turning them every 5 minutes, so all sides are roasted

they look like this

cut up in diced pieces ( i like thick chunks) i removed some of the skin as i cut them

measure and place all other ingredients in a bowl, while the peppers cool

also prepare your corn, by boiling it first for 10 minutes (again, this is just what i do.. everyone is different, some bbq it)

then roast it in the oven on high broil for 15 minutes, much like the green pepper, turning every 5 minutes. let it cool

when cool, take a knife and glide it down each side, removing the corn

cut up your tomatoes in chunks/sizes you prefer

make sure your jars are clean and ready to go (i clean them on the top cycle of the dishwasher, with no detergent, just a little vinegar in the wash

mix all the ingredients together in a huge bowl, may need to divide it, to stir properly

place in your canner, and boil for 25 minutes

salsa is ready to go!

Chocolate Graduation Caps :)

2011-06-15T14:44:00.000-07:00

I made these for my daughters Grad BBQ... they are very easy, and you can do them various ways, online shows smaller reeses cups, etc.. but i did it this way..

all you need are:
"enough reese peanut butter cups for your party"

a bag of M&M's.. (but i'm sure you can use ANY various round candy)
Icing tubes (again, can make your own, there's no need to spend extra money if you don't have to.. a little icing sugar/butter/food coloring).. I went the lazy way for mine :)

Abox of After Eights chocolates

(really you can pick any square chocolate, if you have other choices, this was just mine)

put some icing on top of the Reese peanut butter cup, stick the after eight onto it, put a dot and slight "string" look of icing along the square of the hats "top".. then add an M&M in the middle..

and a package of Straws, to put them on.. i picked straws with a spoon type end to them, so they were easier to put on each hat. Some sites showed they just put the grad hats on a plate. I liked the idea of it on a 'stick' for easy grabbing :)

CONGRATS to my daughter Kori on her big day :)

Pretzel Salad / Dessert

2011-05-25T08:06:00.000-07:00

I like Recipes that are unique.. and i saw this one here.. so thought i'd give it a try :) & it's pretty cool! tastes like cheesecake!!!!! however, don't make the same mistake i did.. the jello hardened way faster than i expected, i put it in the fridge for maybe 5 minutes and it was too late.. make sure to pour it over your icing as soon as it starts to get that jelled look to it.

Ingredients
2 c crushed pretzels
3/4 c margarine, melted
3 Tbsp sugar
1 pkg cream cheese (8 oz)
1 c sugar
1 (8 oz) frozen cool-whip topping, thawed
1 pkg strawberry gelatin (6 oz)
2 c boiling water
2 pkg (10 oz) frozen strawberries

Directions
1
Mix crushed pretzels, margarine and 3 Tablespoons sugar together and press into a 9x13 inch pan. Bake at 400 for 8 minutes. Cool.
2
Mix softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar. Fold the 2 cups thawed whipping topping into cream cheese mixture and spread over cooled pretzel crust. Dissolve strawberry gelatin in bioling water and add frozen strawberries. Chill until syrupy, then pour over the cream cheese layer and refrigerate. cut into squares and garnish with whipped topping and a whole strawberry. Enjoy!

uniquely made Shepherd's Pie

2011-03-28T18:24:00.000-07:00

this is a neat idea!!! and really good.. just a bit time consuming with the digging the potato out of the shell, but worth it! serve it to a guest and they'll love your unique idea of it in a potato! :)

approx 6 LARGE potatoes (russet)

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup water

1 - 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegies

2 tsp chopped fresh oregano (dried is fine)

1 tsp ground pepper

1/2 cup sliced green onion

1 cup grated cheddar cheese

INGREDIENTS:

wash potatoes and pierce with a fork on each side.

cook in a microwave on high for approx 20 - 25 minutes. it takes awhile for large potatoes.. keep watch on them, and do make sure they are completely soft, or you'll get hard spots in your peel

while cooking the potaotes. Brown your ground beef in a skillet. Add the onion and cook another 3 minutes. Stir in soup, water, frozen vegies, oregano and pepper.. simmer on low until you need it for the potatoes. when the potatoes are done, cut them in half lengthwise.. be careful not to burn yourself. I used a towel to hold the end. Scoop out the insides, keeping the peel in tact, and place the insides in a bowl. Add the beef mixture into each potato peel

mash the potatoes (i used 2 tbsp butter into it 7 beat them with an egg beater for a smooth blend) and scoop them on top of the beef mixture.

Top with little bit of cheese on each, and cut up green onion.

Put your oven on high Broil & place these in the oven for approx 5 minutes.

Watch them, and when they get a golden color on top, they're ready! the end result looks so good :)

Breaded Roast Beef

2011-03-26T07:15:00.000-07:00

This is my moms recipe, passed down to me :)

it'd Delicious!!! Guests will thank you :)

INGREDIENTS:
1 roast beef (med side)

1-2 packages of salted soda crackers

approx 1/2 - 1 cup butter for frying

1/2 cup flour

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 cup water

3 tbsp butter

salt/pepper to taste

Cut roast beef in slices.. not too thick.. a little over 1/2 an inch.

Heat up skillet, coating the bottom with butter as needed. Keep a good layer of butter to fry the roast pieces in.

Dip each piece into flour (you can put it on a plate), then into the eggs (in a small bowl) , finally into the crackers (on a seperate plate), coating both sides fully.
fry each piece until golden brown. Salt and pepper to taste.
While frying, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
In a casserole dish, add water and 3 tbsp butter. Then pile the pieces of roast on top

Cover with tin foil, or use a lid on your casserole. Bake for 1 hour. Then take the foil/lid off and bake for last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

Serve with whatever you desire :) I usually like to make a gravy and mashed potatoes :)

Chicken w/ Pineapple

2011-03-15T18:48:00.000-07:00

when i found this recipe, i actually was looking for something "different" than what i usually pick.. and this stood out for me.. i didn't really know what to expect, but it was really good! I enjoyed the two flavors together, could taste the salt of the onion mix, with the sweet of the pineapple. I didn't do the cherries on my recipe..

INGREDIENTS:

3 - 5 chicken breasts

2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

1 can (20 oz.) pineapple chunks in natural juice, undrained

1/4 cup maraschino cherries, halved (optional)

1 envelope Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Recipe Soup Mix

DIRECTIONS:
On heavy-duty foil in shallow baking pan, arrange chicken brushed with butter. Broil 10 minutes or until lightly browned on both sides. Reduce oven to 350 degree. In medium bowl, combine remaining ingredients pour over chicken. Fold foil, sealing edges airtight with double fold. Bake 45 minutes or until chicken is done.

Healthy choice Oatmeal Pancakes

2011-02-27T08:07:00.000-08:00

This makes TWO large pancakes.. if you're making for a family, i would double it and make them smaller :)

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup oatmeal

5 egg whites

1/2 banana

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1 - 1/2 tsp sugar (or sugar substitute)

Place all ingredients in a blender.. Blend until everything is completely broken down into liquid (as above)
Heat a griddle on med high, use a slight amount of butter or cooking spray or something you prefer to keep it from sticking (i used half tsp margarine).. Cook until it bubbles, flip and brown.. doesn't take long at all.
You can top them with whatever you love.. but i take some frozen fruit, pop it in the microwave for 2 minutes so it melts and is warm, the frozen fruit gives you a natural syrup as well as the fruit

Pour overtop your pancake

ENJOY! :)

Herb Crusted Turkey pot pie

2010-12-29T09:59:00.000-08:00

LOVED it.. great for leftover Turkey, chicken, or roast beef!!!!!

It was my way of using up the leftover Turkey after xmas this year :)

1 egg

1 tbsp water

4 cups turkey, chicken or roast beef

6 cups frozen mixed vegies of your choice

leftover stuffing (optional)

2 tbsp butter

1/2 cup flour

2 cups chicken broth/stock

1 tsp pepper

1 pasty mix of your choice (i use my own, (click here for it)

but cut this recipe in half

fresh herbs for topping (parsley works, i forgot it in these pics)

Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Beat egg and water in small bowl with a fork.

In a baking dish, stir in turkey and vegies (and stuffing if desired)

Heat butter in saucepan on med heat, add in flour and cook for a few minutes. Stir in chicken stock and pepper. Cook until it boils slightly and thickens. Pour it over the turkey mixture

Roll pasty to a rectangle size that will fit over your chicken/vegie mix. firm the sides and seal. brush fork lightly over to make light lines.. brush with egg mix and sprinkle on herbs for appearances.

Bake 50 minutes our until your pastry is a golden brown and is bubbling.

"the Casserole"

2010-11-04T11:43:00.000-07:00

this is really good!!!!! and easy to throw together :))) was GREAT as a leftover too.

as a side note, the recipe originally said to use canned carrots, but i put in mushrooms. I think you could use whatever you LOVE for the vegetable part.. it is your personal choice.

Ingredients
8 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 (15 ounce) can mushrooms, drained
1 (15 ounce) can green or yellow beans, drained
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
3/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish; set aside
Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash.
Place lean ground beef and onion in a large skillet. Cook and stir over medium high heat until beef is evenly browned and onion is tender. Drain fat and stir in mushrooms, green beans, cream of mushroom soup and tomato soup.
Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese and bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until potatoes are lightly browned.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

2010-10-26T18:23:00.001-07:00

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups water

2 cups minute rice

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup chopped onion

6-12 fresh mushrooms (cut up/optional)

1 egg, slightly beaten

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

2 cans tomato soup

1 cup water

DIRECTIONS:

First place the whole cabbage into hot water, bring to a slow boil, and remove the leaves.

Meanwhile prepare the rice as directed on package. Set aside to cool.

Boil the leaves for 4-5 minutes, once pulled from the cabbage head

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, cut onion, mushrooms, egg, salt and pepper. Along with two big tbsp of tomato soup. Mix Thoroughly.

Scoop 2-3 tbsp into each leaf (as much as you're able to, with still being able to fold it up)
Place the cabbage rolls into a skillet (i grease slightly with butter, but you don't have to), and poor the remaining cans of tomato soup over the cabbage rolls.. Pour over a cup of water. Cover and simmer for approx 1 hour, on med heat.
Serve with sour cream, if desired

Sweet Thai chicken & Rice casserole

2010-07-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

one of the easiest recipes i've ever made!!!!!

INGREDIENTS:

1 jar sweet Thai sauce

2 cups minute Rice

1 cup water

cut up pieces of chicken

1 can pineapple (i used fresh)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

lightly grease baking pan with margarine or butter

poor uncooked minute rice in pan

place pieces of chicken over the rice

poor over the sauce and the water

sprinkle the pineapple over top

cover with tin foil and bake for 45-50 minutes until chicken is cooked.

Cinnabon Rolls

2010-07-27T14:25:00.000-07:00

thanks Melissa!!! they are so yummy!!!!!!

1 (1/4 ounce) package dry yeast
1 cup warm milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup margarine
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
4 cups flour

FILLING
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
1/3 cup margarine, softened

ICING
8 tablespoons margarine
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup cream cheese
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/8 teaspoon salt

. For the rolls, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk in a large bowl.
. Add sugar, margarine salt, eggs, and flour, mix well.
. Knead the dough into a large ball, using your hands dusted lightly with flour.
. Put in a bowl, cover and let rise in a warm place about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface, until it is approx 21 inches long by 16 inches wide.
. It should be approx 1/4 thick.
. To make filling, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
. Spread the softened margarine over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the surface.
. Working carefully, from the long edge, roll the dough down to the bottom edge.
. Cut the dough into 1 3/4 inch slices, and place in a lightly greased baking pan.
Raise again for another hour.

.Preheat oven at 400*

. Bake for 10 - 12 minutes or until light golden brown.
. While the rolls are baking combine the icing ingredients.
. Beat well with an electric mixer until fluffy.
. When the rolls are done, spread generously with icing.

Easy Mexitalian Chicken

2010-04-30T07:59:00.001-07:00

it's been awhile since i posted a new recipe.. mostly it's because i've been busy working and doing house reno's.... but i've also tried new recipes between now and October, and none of the new ones cut it for this site..

finally I can post a good one!!! :)

5 boneless chicken breast (or how many you need)

1 can Chilli (any kind, any style)

1 can italian tomatoes (reg if you don't like italian)

2 cups cheese

Preheat oven to 425.

place chicken breast in a rectangle baking pan.

Pour over the chilli and tomatoes

top with cheese

cover with foil, and pop it in the oven for 1 hour. Take the foil off in the last 20 minutes, if you like a broiled cheese to the top of your dish.

I served it with rice.. it's so yummy!

Cheeseburger N Fries Casserole

2009-10-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

this is a Great EAsy meal!!!

2 pounds lean ground beef
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can cheddar cheese soup
1 package onion soup mix
1 package of frozen french fries
salt/pepper to taste

..
In a skillet, brown the beef, drain. Stir in soup and soup mix, salt/pepper.
Place meat mixture into 9X13 baking dish. Top with frozen fries. Salt again if you like to.

Bake, uncovered, at 350 for approx 1 hour or so.. or until the fries are golden brown.

Paprika Chicken

2009-10-23T10:01:00.001-07:00

this is GREAT and really easy!!! it's like Chicken Stroganoff really!

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup butter
1- 1/2 pounds chicken pieces/breast
1 medium onion, chopped
1- 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup sour cream

DIRECTIONS

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and add chicken; cook until lightly browned, turning once. Add onion to skillet and cook 5 to 8 minutes more. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of water, and season with paprika, salt, and pepper; cook 10 minutes more, or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm.

Stir 2 tablespoons of flour into sour cream; then slowly stir into the onion mixture remaining in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and cook until thickened.

Add chicken back to skillet, and warm

Scalloped potatoes

2009-10-23T09:54:00.001-07:00

INGREDIENTS

-----

7-10 potatoes (enough to fill the square baking pan)

1 med onion, chopped

1 can mushroom soup

1 can milk (use empty mushroom soup can)

3 tbsp flour

3 tbsp margarine

salt/pepper to taste

Directions

----

mix mushroom soup and milk together in a bowl.

In a square baking pan.. layer potatoes, some onion, 1 tbsp flour, 1 tbsp margarine, salt pepper.

pour some of the soup mix over.. (approx 1/2 cup)

Repeat again.. layer.. pour more soup mix.

Repeat a third time, ending with the remaining soup mix poured on top.

cover with Foil and bake on 350* for an hour.

Remove foil, and bake for another 15 minutes.

Glazed Vegetable Medley

2009-10-20T08:05:00.000-07:00

I bought a little cookbook from the grocery store.. "comfort food".. and decided to make a side dish in there, for thanksgiving this year..

It turned out "fantastic".. of course if you like these vegies used.. and I do! i just loved this, very very good.. loved the dill seasoning!

Ingredients

2 med parsnips, peeled and cut in pieces

3 med carrots, cut into 1/4 inch pieces

1 small onion, halved and sliced

1 garlic clove, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

1 med zucchini, halved and cut into 1/4 inch slices

1 med sweet red pepper, thinly sliced and halved

1 tbsp margarine or butter

1 tbsp brown sugar

1/2 tsp cornstarch

3 tbsp water

1/2 tsp seasoned salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp dill weed

Directions

Place parsnips in a large saucepan, cover with water. Bring to boil. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered for 5 minutes. Add the carrots. Cook 7-9 minutes or longer, until vegies are crisp-tender. Drain and keep warm.

In a large skillet, saute onion and garlic in oil for 1 min. Add the zucchini and red peppers, cook and stir for 5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Remove from skillet and keep warm

In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in brown sugar and cornstartch until smooth. Gradually add the water, seasoned salt, pepper and dill. Bring to a boil, cook and stir for 1-2 min or until slightly thickened. Add the vegies and stir to coat

chicken fried chicken

2009-09-09T18:08:00.001-07:00

sometimes i think a recipe is on here already, then someone will ask for it, and i realize it's not. This is one of them. I've been making this for years, and it's very popular with my family, in fact my husband requested it for his birthday dinner :)

a package of saltine cracker (soda cracker package)

2 tbsp flour

2 tbsp dry potato flakes (i omit if i am out of it)

1 tsp seasoned salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1-2 eggs

1/2 cup vegetable oil

6 skinless, boneless chicken breast

................

Directions:

....

crumble crackers on a plate with the flour and seasoning(or use big ziploc bag)..

Pour oil into a skillet, and heat up.

coat your chicken in the egg first, then into the crumbled crackers, then into the heated oil. Cook on medium to high heat on one side for approx 10 min, until brown, turn over and cook for 10 more, or until cooked through.

I like to serve brown gravy overtop, is very yummy!!!

canning: chunky strawberry-blueberry Jam

2009-09-09T15:49:00.000-07:00

still enjoying my first year of canning! i'm addicted..

this makes 12 - 250 mL jars of jam.

---------------

I found recipes that called for a LOT of sugar.. i wanted to use the least i could, but still have a nice taste.. some of the recipes were 7 cups of sugar!!! i found 1 cup to be perfect for me.

-------------------------------

4 lbs of strawberries

2 pints of blueberries

1/2 cup water

1 cup sugar

1 package of Pectin (i use light)

DIRECTION:

----

cut tops of strawberries and cut in half. Wash

Wash blueberries, making sure all stems are off.

---

Bring to a light boil on medium heat with the 1/2 cup water.. let simmer for 20 minutes or so.

Once soft, mash with potato masher in pot, until consistency you like. I like chunky, so i don't do much mashing. You can also blend it in the blender if you want smooth.

---

Add sugar and pectin and simmer for a few more minutes.

---

Pour into 250 ML jars. Boil in hot water bath for 10 minutes. Lift out, rest on towel for a few hours, letting lids seal. you should hear the "pop" within minutes.

canning: Italian style stewed tomatoes

2009-09-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

some recipes online called for the real deal, the pressure cooker canning.. but i wanted to use one that was just a hot water bath, so found this recipe on recipezaar..

--------

USE for spaghetti sauce, pasta, crock pot recipes, chicken cacciatore.. anything!

-------------

24 tomatoes (plum, roma, etc)

2 cups onions (i didn't use onions)

2 cups sweet peppers (green, red, whichever)

1/4 cup chopped/minced garlic

1/4 cup oregano

2 Tbsp Olive oil

1 Tbsp sugar

cut up your tomatoes to your liking. I cut them in 4's, and then cut each one again.. so i get chunks. Mix all together and bring to a slow cook on Medium heat.. turn down and simmer for 20 minutes until everything is tender.

Place HOT into the warm clean canning jars, and boil in a hot water bath for 20 minutes.

Canning: Pears in light syrup

2009-08-30T08:30:00.001-07:00

my friend Cairith gave me a bunch of pears she got through another friend, I shared my apples, she shared pears! LOVE it.. love that kinda back and forth kindness :)

anyway.. so i went ahead and made some pears..

this is in a very light syrup.. not much sugar compared to how much others use.. but i wanted it more "natural"..

=================

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup sugar

6 cups water

pears

================

Disolve sugar in water on a slow boil. Peal, slice, and Place pears in each jar, fill with water, with a space left on top. Boil in water bath for 20 minutes.

TIP: to keep your pears from browning, place in a bowl with a little lemon juice and water :).

EASY cinnamon buns

2009-08-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

although they are easy, you do need the time to thaw/raise them.. so follow the package.

A customer at work gave me this idea, and I thought it sounded good, so gave it a try! YUM

---------------------------------------------

Bread to bake ~ frozen dinner roll dough

cinnamon

brown sugar

melted butter

--------------------------------------------

DIRECTIONS:

Place 8 of the frozen bread buns in a greased angel food loaf pan (that's my name for it! haha)

leave in the fridge overnight for at least 8 hours to thaw.. i give it more time even.

follow directions on package to "raise" the buns in the oven.
when raised. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon (to your liking). Don't use a lot of cinnamon, just enough to taste.
Bake following directions.. 350 degrees for approx 18 minutes. Depending on oven. Watch for a nice golden brown on top

drizzle with about 2 tbsp of butter. Let sit a few minutes. Serve warm or cold!

canning: Blueberry Apple Sauce

2009-08-19T15:55:00.000-07:00

Doubled the recipe to make a dozen small jars of 250ML size

these are my apples off my tree.. so i love that it's "free" to make this for me basically

my friends little girl, Lucy, helping me out :)
smells so good!

i like mine a little chunker, you can choose your consistency

8-10 apples

1 cup fresh blueberries
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

cut apples into medium size pieces, place in pot with all other ingredients, cook until soft on low/med temp.. turning down low at the end

Canning: Spicy Apple Sauce

2009-08-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

my first experience "canning".. and i'm already hooked, not sure why i didn't do this a long time ago!!! I have an apple tree, so decided it might be fun to make apple sauce.. and it turned out GREAT!

I doubled this recipe below, and it made a dozen jars of the 250ML size

my friends son, Gage, helping me out :)

8-10 apples
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

cut apples into medium size pieces, place in pot with all other ingredients, cook until soft.

if for baby food, can blend in blender, to make extra smooth

S'perogies - Crockpot

2009-07-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

this is simple to make!! & since my hubby and i work a lot now.. often we don't get to even have dinner together.. like tonight, i eat this before i go to work at 5:15.. and he eats it all ready when he gets home at 6pm..

1 pkg of smokies or hotdogs

1 frozen pkg of cheese filled perogies (or your personal choice)

1 cut up onion into slices

2 cans of cream of mushroom soup

1 can of water

salt/pepper to taste

-----------------------

DIRECTIONS;

throw it all together in a crock pot and cook on low for 5 hours..

Serve with a vegetable :)

Swiss chicken casserole

2009-06-25T20:05:00.001-07:00

today was a cool day for June.. (feels like Fall out there) so I made this for dinner ..

it turned out VERY good..

big thumbs up from my husband, who loves chicken/turkey with stuffing.. so huge hit.

Will definitely become a family favorite & it's so easy!!!

6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

6 slices Swiss cheese

1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup

1/4 cup milk

2 cups herb-seasoned stuffing mix

1/4 cup butter

---------------

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Arrange chicken in a greased 12x8x2-inch baking dish. Top with Swiss cheese slices. Combine soup and milk and stir well. Spoon mixture over chicken and sprinkle with stuffing mix. Drizzle butter over crumbs. Cover and bake for 50 minutes.

Makes 6 servings.

Chocolate Earthquake Cake

2009-06-12T19:24:00.000-07:00

This is so cool, look how the icing is on top, and then just kinda sinks into the cake when it's done!! no wonder why they call it EARTHQUAKE cake!!!!!

it's heavenly to taste, but not the prettiest of cakes to serve

Ingredients:

1 cup chopped walnuts (i used almonds)

1/2 cup flaked coconut

1 box devils chocolate cake mix

1/2 cup butter

8 ounces cream cheese

4 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions:

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease one 9x12 inch cake pan. Cover the bottom of the cake pan with the chopped nuts and the flaked coconut.

2.Prepare cake mix according to package directions. Pour batter over chopped nuts and coconut.

3.Melt butter or margarine, add cream cheese and confectioner's sugar. Stir until blended. Spoon over unbaked batter

.4.Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 40 to 42 minutes.

Please note: you cannot test for doneness, as the cake will appear sticky even when it is done. The icing sinks into the batter as it bakes, forming the white ribbon inside. Makes 16 servings.

Cheesy Fried potatoes

2009-06-12T19:20:00.001-07:00

By far, not the healthiest of side dishes, but gosh, so good!!!!

Ingredients:

-------------

6 slices bacon

4 tablespoons butter

1 diced onion

8 potatoes, peeled and sliced

salt and pepper to taste

4 eggs

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions:

1.Place bacon in a large, deep skillet.

Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Remove bacon from pan, drain and crumble; leave grease in pan.

2.Heat bacon grease over medium heat and stir in butter. Add onion and potatoes. Cover pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are golden brown.

3.Crack eggs on top of potatoes and stir gently to combine. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, cheese and bacon. Continue cooking until eggs are firm and cheese is melted.

Steak with Bacon-Mushroom sauce

2009-06-12T19:04:00.001-07:00

MMM nothing like BBQ steaks!!!!

since starting a new job, i haven't had as much time to cook a new meal.. so it was nice to make one tonight!!! This was a real hit, the sauce is so good.

4 beef T-bone steaks (i used boneless Grade A meat)
5 slices Bacon, cut into 1/4-inch pieces

2 tbsp margarine or butter
1-2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1/4 cup A.1. Original Steak Sauce
1/4 cup water
1 tsp. brown sugar

HEAT grill to medium. Grill steaks 7 to 8 min. on each side or to medium doneness (160ºF).

MEANWHILE, cook bacon in large skillet on medium heat 5 min. or until crisp, stirring occasionally. Drain bacon on paper towels. Discard drippings from skillet. Add margarine to skillet and Add mushrooms; cook 5 min., stirring occasionally. Stir in bacon, steak sauce, water and sugar.

Bring to boil; simmer on medium-low heat 5 min., stirring occasionally.

SERVE steaks topped with mushroom sauce.

Heavenly Chocolate Mousse

2009-04-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

Kori (my daughter) had to do up a meal for cooking class, and she found the most amazing dessert off the net. I have never made Mousse myself, not sure why, so am very impressed she did it!! it's DELISH-US!!!!!

to me, it's a cross between icecream and pudding.. with a deep brownie taste.. MMMM

INGREDIENTS

8 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup water, divided 2 tablespoons butter (she used margarine)

3 egg yolks

2 tablespoons sugar

1 1/4 cups whipping cream, whipped

DIRECTIONS

In a microwave or double boiler, heat chocolate, 1/4 cup water and butter until the chocolate and butter are melted. Cool for 10 minutes.

In a small heavy saucepan, whisk egg yolks, sugar and remaining water. Cook and stir over low heat until mixture reaches 160 degrees F, about 1-2 minutes.

Remove from the heat; whisk in chocolate mixture. Set saucepan in ice and stir until cooled, about 5-10 minutes. Fold in whipped cream. Spoon into dessert dishes. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

EASY crispy Salsa Chicken

2009-04-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

this is REALLY very easy, and really good :)

4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 lb.)

1 pouch basic Seasoned Coating Mix (shake n bake, etc)

1/2 cup Salsa (i use chunky)

1/2 cup Shredded Cheese

----------------------------------
HEAT oven to 400ºF.

COAT chicken with coating mix as directed on package.

Place on baking sheet. BAKE 20 min. or until chicken is done (165°F).

TOP with salsa and cheese. Bake 5 min. or until cheese is melted.

The Sterlings Best BBQ Burgers

2009-04-11T18:33:00.000-07:00

we make these all the time.. forever it seems.. they are easy and really good!!!!!

INGREDIENTS:

---

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup bread crumbs

1 egg

1 chopped onion (optional)

BBQ sauce

Cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS:

---

Mix together beef, crumbs, egg and onion in a bowl. Form into patties. Fry in a skillet (or BBQ) until done.. approx 15-20 minutes.

In the last few minutes, add a spoonful of BBQ sauce on top of each burger, spread.. then a slice of cheddar cheese on each. Melt. Serve.

Home made PEANUT BUTTER Granola Bars

2009-04-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

I've made regular granola bars.. "here" now i wanted to try to make them without sugar, and a peanut butter version, so i came up with this recipe.. they aren't as sweet as the above granola bars i've done, but they are just as good!! and healthier without the sugar and butter..

this recipe is completely changable.. you can omit raisins, add dried fruit, you can omit the chocolate chips completely (although dark chocolate is good for you).. you can use regular peanut butter i am sure (i use natural for a healthy choice).. use your imagination and mix it up :)

First. Crush your almonds, by putting them in a bag and hitting them with something heavy..Then, mix the almond pieces, oats, wheat germ, ground flaxseed and sunflower seeds on a cookie sheet. Toast them in the oven for 15 minutes on 350, stirring every few minutes so that they don't get burned.
Meanwhile, prepare a glass baking dish (about 11 x 13 inches) for your granola by lining it with waxed paper lightly sprayed with a nonstick spray (i use butter).

Put the honey+ peanut butter into a saucepan and bring to a simmer on low, stirring constantly
make sure you use a HEAPING TBSP of peanut butter

By now, your grains and nuts should be toasted, so mix everything together in a large bowl. The grains, the liquid "glue," and the raisins added
Mix everything REALLY WELL because you want to make sure the "glue" gets all over everything. Now, dump your granola mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread out the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula. Let sit for 2 minutes.

sprinkle the dark chocolate chips over top..

Now add a sheet of wax paper on top, and PRESS HARD all over the granola. You want to compact it together so that your bars won't fall apart when you cut them.Wait 2-3 hours or until the granola has totally cooled. (can put in fridge for an hour).. if the top layer sticks, just allow it to sit on the counter before pulling it off.. it melts and allows you to do that :)

And carefully turn the granola onto a large cutting board, peeling away the rest of the paper. Now, firmly pressing down with a big knife (not sawing), cut your granola into whatever size bars you'd like.

Makes 16 Granola bars

I keep them in the freezer in individual snack bags. Only takes a short time to thaw out for a snack :)

----------------------------------------------

INGREDIENTS

-----

2 cups oats

1 cup crushed almonds

1/2 cup ground flax

1/2 cup wheat germ

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

1/2 cup honey

3 heaping (see pic above) Tbsp natural peanut butter

1 cup raisins

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Our Summer BBQ Ham

2009-04-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

We love ham in this family, and when summer comes around and it's too hot to make it in the oven, i came up with this simple recipe to use on the BBQ.. we LOVE it.

1 full ham (precooked ham)

1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ Sauce

1/4 cup Honey

1/4 cup mustard

Cut up your ham into semi thick slices (OR you can buy presliced ham)

mix the 3 ingredients together and brush over both sides of the ham and place in a dish, pour the rest of the sauce overtop

(I marinate it for an hour or more in the fridge, but you don't have to if you are short on time, makes it easy having it prepared)

Grill on the BBQ, just a few minutes on each side until browned. Serve!

southwestern Hot Dogs

2009-04-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

This is really good!!! it was a hit by the whole family!!!

Very easy to prep and make

INGREDIENTS

1 cup finely shredded Cheddar cheese

1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

3 tablespoons salsa

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

12 hot dogs

12 hot dog buns

DIRECTIONS

In a bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Cut a 1/2-in.-deep lengthwise slit in each hot dog. Spoon about 2 tablespoons cheese mixture into each. Broil for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve on buns.

Chops 'n' Pierogies

2009-03-22T18:32:00.000-07:00

Sometimes i think a recipe is on here, just because i've made it so often and for so long.. but then i keep forgetting to post my alltime favorites, instead of just new ones i love.

This is my favorite pork chop recipe :) and i've made it so often, and for company and we all fee the same about it.. YUM.

INGREDIENTS:

1 bag of pierogies

6 pork chops

salt/pepper to taste

4-6 tbsp margarine

1 medium/large onion

2 Golden Delicious apples (any will do) cut into slices

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup vinegar

DIRECTIONS:

sprinkle pork chops with salt and pepper to taste. In a large skillet, cook chops in half the margarine, over med heat until juices run clear. Usually 20 min.

Boil the pierogies according to bag directions
cut your onion in slices, so you have onion "rings"... and your apples about 1/4 inch

Remove pork chops temporarily.. keep warm. In the same skillet, saute the onion first in the remaining margarine for 3 min. Add the apple and saute until tender. Stir in sugar, vinegar and some more salt/pepper to taste.. let simmer 5 min.

drain the pierogies and add to the skillet of apples/onions. Add the pork chops. fry up for about 5 more minutes, just until the pierogies get a bit golden brown

serve with sour cream if desired :)

To Die for Crock Pot Roast Recipe

2009-03-21T07:21:00.001-07:00

this is REALLY good!! and easy!

the gravy is really tasty and perfect at the end :)

1 beef roast, any kind (3 pounds or so)

1 (1 1/4 ounce) package brown gravy mix, dry

1 (1 1/4 ounce) package dried Italian salad dressing mix

1 (1 1/4 ounce) package ranch dressing mix, dry (i used 1/2 cup wet dressing)

1 cup water

----------

Place beef roast in crock pot. Mix the dried mixes together in a bowl and sprinkle over the roast. Pour the water around the roast. Cook on low for 7 hours.

------------------------

I added Carrots, red potatoes and sweet potato into the crockpot.. so it became a full meal

11am - start crock pot with all above ingredients

3pm - add in vegies if desired

6pm - dinner is ready :)

Home-Made Granola Bars

2009-03-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

I have been on a quest for healthy eating for awhile now.. and my most recent mission is to find a granola bar that i love, that is equal to the healthy choice Kashi bar (below)

I found this recipe HERE when i was searching, only she uses peanuts. i thought almonds would be the better choice because of what the media drills in our heads about almonds! lol

although this one i made today, is a "healthier" than norm choice for a granola bar (below).. i still would like to eliminate the sugar and mess around with this recipe and create it even healthier.

However, this is a sweet version of a good choice, the bar has a sweet taste and for someone with a sweet tooth, this would curb that craving..

and it really IS healthy (i used organic),

no corn syrup or the heavy duty sugars, only brown sugar :)

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups oats

3/4 cup wheat germ

3/4 cup sunflower seeds

1 cup almonds, crushed

1/4 cup flaxseed

2/3 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup honey

4 Tbsp butter

2 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup dried cranberries (or any dried fruit you love)

1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

First. Crush your almonds, by putting them in a bag and hitting them with something heavy..Then, mix the almond pieces, oats, wheat germ, flaxseeds and sunflower seeds on a cookie sheet. Toast them in the oven for 15 minutes on 350, stirring every few minutes so that they don't get burned.

Meanwhile, prepare a glass baking dish (about 11 x 13 inches) for your granola by lining it with waxed paper lightly sprayed with a nonstick spray.Put the brown sugar, honey, butter, vanilla, and salt into a saucepan and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly

----

By now, your grains and nuts should be toasted, so mix everything together in a large bowl. The grains, the liquid "glue," and the dried fruit/dark chocolate.

Mix everything REALLY WELL because you want to make sure the "glue" gets all over everything. Now, dump your granola mixture into your prepared baking dish.Spread out the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula.

Now fold over the sides of the waxed paper or add a sheet on top, and PRESS HARD all over the granola. You want to compact it together so that your bars won't fall apart when you cut them.Wait 2-3 hours or until the granola has totally cooled.

And carefully turn the granola onto a large cutting board, peeling away the rest of the paper.Now, firmly pressing down with a big knife (not sawing), cut your granola into whatever size bars you'd like.

Makes 16 Granola bars

MMM!!! healthy and GOOD

I keep them in the freezer in individual snack bags. Only takes a short time to thaw out for a snack :)

Pasta & Smokie Bake

2009-03-16T18:45:00.000-07:00

i had leftover smokies from last nights dinner, so this was a perfect way to use them up :).

The original recipes called for "sausage", so you could cook that up and make this with sausages instead of smokies :).

It's really good!!!

----------------------------

1 lb smokies, cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 jar (15 oz) spaghetti sauce

1 bag of penne pasta, cooked and drained

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups shredded cheese

----------------

preheat oven 350 degrees

in greased qt baking dish combine

smokies (cook if needed, most are precooked) , sauce, penne pasta and parmesean cheese.

top with shredded cheese.

bake for 15-20 minutes

flourless peanut butter cookies

2009-03-07T16:05:00.000-08:00

my daughter Kori wanted to bake today, but we didn't have any brown sugar.. so i found this recipe on the net, and she said she'd try it.. these are so good!!!

It's shocking really that there's NO flour, yet they taste just like regular peanut butter cookies!

INGREDIENTS

1 cup peanut butter

1 cup white sugar

1 egg

1/2 tsp vanilla

~~~~~~~~~

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).

Combine ingredients and drop by teaspoonfuls on cookie sheet.

Bake for 8 - 10 minutes.

Let cool. Recipe doesn't make very many, so you could double recipe as you desire.

CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

2009-03-07T10:29:00.000-08:00

I've seen this before, but have never tried it. Kori brought home the recipe from cooking class and asked if she could make it. so thought i'd blog it. I tasted it too and it's really good and QUICK.. just not the prettiest cake you'll ever see!!! lol

1 coffee mug

4 tbsp flour

4 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp cocoa

1 egg

3 tbsp milk

3 tbsp oil

3 tbsp chocolate chips (optional)

some nuts (optional)

small splash of vanilla

DIRECTIONS

---

Add dry ingredients to the mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix well. Pour in the milk and oil, mix well again. Add the chocolate chips and nuts and vanilla and mix again.

Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 min on high.

The cake will rise to the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed!

allow to cool a little and tip ont a plate if desired. EAT!

Quick Vegetable Spaghetti

2009-03-05T18:22:00.000-08:00

This was really good!!! a nice change from our regular spaghetti!!

and it's MEATLESS.. so was perfect for our Meatless Thursday :)

It's REALLY filling!!! :)

INGREDIENTS

1 pound uncooked spaghetti

1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small

1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained

1 cup fresh sliced mushrooms, chopped small

1 cup sliced carrots, chopped small (i used shredded)

1 can pasta sauce

1 cup water

------------

DIRECTIONS

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, add spaghetti and return water to a boil. Cook until spaghetti is al dente; drain well.

Combine broccoli, corn, mushrooms, carrots and tomato sauce in large sauce pot. Cook on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to keep sauce from sticking. Serve sauce over spaghetti.

Oven Chicken fingers

2009-03-02T18:47:00.001-08:00

these are so good!! they are like an adult version of chicken fingers.. but still kid friendly.. the chicken was tender and the seasoning very good :). i make the sauce below, but you can do your own preferred dip :)

~~~~~~

INGREDIENTS

1 cup bread crumbs

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese ( i use club house parmesan & herb) Pic below

1 - 2 garlic clove, minced (i use freeze dried)

1/2 cup vegetable oil

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves

DIRECTIONS:

PREHEAT OVEN 350 degrees

cut the chicken into strips

In a small bowl, combine garlic and oil.

Dip the strips into the oil

in zip lock bag.. add the bread crumbs & the parmesan. Coat the chicken

Place on greased cookie sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Turn over and bake another 15 minutes.. depending on chicken size, watch the time.. may take shorter or longer.

dip:

HONEY MUSTARD SAUCE:

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup water, divided

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup prepared mustard

dissolve cornstarch in 1 tablespoon water in a saucepan. Add honey, mustard and remaining water; bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Serve with chicken for dipping.

Bacon Roasted Chicken

2009-02-25T18:44:00.000-08:00

This roast chicken is so good for so many reasons..

1. The bacon just gives the chicken such a nice flavor!!! YUM

2. you can use the bacon and put it in mashed potatoes like i did (SUCH a hit)

3. The GRAVY is to-die-for!!! sooo yummy.. the best i've had

4. You can use the bones left from the chicken and make homemade soup for tomorrow!

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (220 degrees C). Rub butter over the entire chicken. Season with salt, pepper and thyme. Place the carrots inside the cavity, and tie the legs together. Place the chicken breast side up in a roasting pan.

Lay bacon strips across the top of the chicken, and secure with toothpicks. Sprinkle with paprika. Pour the beef broth into the roasting pan - do not pour over the bacon.
Roast for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, the reduce the heat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Baste with some of the broth. Continue to roast for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature is 180 degrees F (82 degrees C) when taken in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste every 15 minutes with the broth.
Remove the bacon and discard toothpicks. Roast the chicken for 20 more minutes without cover, to brown the skin.
I used the bacon in my mashed potoates, just crumble it into them :)

Transfer to a serving platter, and remove the ties. You may eat the bacon, but it is best to discard the carrots (not sure what their purpose is, to hold chicken together?)

I added 1/2 cup flour with 1 cup water and made gravy with the chicken/beef broth mixture left in the roasting pot.. MMMM.. perfect.

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons butter

1 (4 pound) whole chicken

salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon dried thyme (i didn't have it, so it's optional)

2 carrots, cut in chunks

paprika to taste

8 slices bacon

1 can of beef broth

BBQ Chicken Pizza

2009-02-24T18:20:00.000-08:00

This is Fantabulous!!!!!!!

wow, i will make this again, i LOVE it!!!

I even used a multigrain healthy crust.. was perfect :)

make sure to use a BBQ sauce that you already know you LOVE the taste of..

if you do that, you can't go wrong :) I used the hickory bullseye sauce.

INGREDIENTS

1 (12 inch) pre-baked pizza crust

1 cup barbeque sauce

2 skinless boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and cubed

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 cup sliced peppers

1 cup chopped onion

2 cups shredded cheese

(i also added mushrooms)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Place pizza crust on a medium baking sheet. Spread the crust with barbeque sauce. Top with chicken, cilantro, pepperoncini peppers, onion, and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly

WeekNight Lasagna Toss

2009-02-24T07:17:00.000-08:00

I've been making this recipe for years now.. we just love it, tastes JUST like lasagna without having to bake it in the oven.. you just do it on the stovetop :)

DIRECTIONS:

Brown meat in a large skillet on med heat. Drain fat.

At the same time, prepare the 12 pieces of lasagna noodles, by boiling them. OR you can use "ready to use" noodles and break them in pieces :)

Add peppers, garlic, pasta sauce, water and italian dressing. Bring to a boil.

Cut the lasagna noodles into 5 squares
Stir the noodles into the prepared sauce. Reduce heat to med-low. Cover

Cook, stirring occasionally for 10 min.

Sprinkle with cheese. Cover on low, or off. Let Stand for 5 min. or until cheese is melted

Serve!

INGREDIENTS:

---

1 pound ground beef

1 chopped green pepper

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 jar of pasta sauce

1 2/3 cup water

1/4 cup Italian dressing

12 boiled lasagna noodles

1-2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese

traditional Potato Salad

2009-02-20T18:29:00.000-08:00

i've been making this potato salad since i can remember..

way back before kids.. it's simple and a traditional favorite :)

INGREDIENTS:

4-8 pototaoes (depending on your family size) can use with skin, or peeled

3-6 boiled eggs (depending on family size)

1/2 cup size cheese.. sliced into pieces

1 cup mayo (or to your liking)

salt/pepper to taste

I've also added green onion before, real bacon bits, celery.. depending on my mood.

----------

DIRECTIONS:

boil potatoes until you can put a fork into them easily

boil eggs in seperate pot for 10 minutes.

Drain. set out to cool on counter.. and then in the fridge to cool

Cut up the potatoes in chunks & Peel & cut up the eggs when cool

add the cheese, mayo and salt/pepper

refridgerate until ready to serve

Quick & Easy Crockpot baked beans

2009-02-20T18:21:00.000-08:00

I've used this recipe for years and years.. just never posted it on my blog before.. it's a real simple easy baked beans that everyone loves :)

INGREDIENTS:

1 can beans in tomato sauce

1 can beans in tomato sauce with pork

1 can of chili

1 can of pineapple (drained)

1 onion, chopped

1/2 cup ketchup

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp mustard

----------------

DIRECTIONS:

Toss everything into a crockpot and cook on high for 2 hours. Then turn to low until ready to serve (can be several hours on low)

A-M-A-Z-I-N-G HOney GarLIc ChiCKen WinGs

2009-02-20T18:07:00.000-08:00

A-M-A-Z-I-N-G

that's all i can say.. YUM.. very very good. If you're like my family and like your chicken crispied up, this is the recipe for you..

We didn't have ONE chicken wing left on the baking sheet.. Very good.

I served with potato salad and baked beans :)

1 lg. onion, chopped

1/2 c. honey

1/4 c. soy sauce

Garlic as desired

1/4 c. butter

1/2 c. brown sugar

2 tsp. dry mustard

5 lb. chicken wings, thawed

---------------------

Combine above ingredients in saucepan, except for chicken wings and cook 5 minutes.

Spread chicken wings in a large shallow pan, 15 x 10 x 1.

Pour sauce over wings.

Bake at 350 degrees uncovered

for 1 -1/2 hours - 2 hours, turning 2-3 times during cooking.

Pita Pizza

2009-02-19T18:39:00.000-08:00

I'm still trying to do one meatless meal a week.. (Thursdays)..

I didn't tell my family that i was putting "veggie" pepperoni on the pizza's.. and I totally tricked my husband who is the "meat king".. he was totally shocked that i pulled it off!!! lol.. but he admitted to loving it, and I'm really glad!!!!!! these were sooo good.. taste just like thin crust pizza to me!

PER PIZZA
1 pita bread round

1 teaspoon olive oil

3 tablespoons pizza sauce

1/2 cup shredded cheese

1/4 cup sliced mushrooms

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Spread one side of the pita with olive oil and pizza sauce. Top with cheese and mushrooms

Lightly oil cooking sheet. Place each one on the sheet and cook until cheese completely melts, about 15 minutes.

Stuffed Manicotti

2009-02-19T07:41:00.000-08:00

i found this recipe on the net.. and it's a hit with my family :)).. the taste and texture is a lot like stuffed ravioli you get in a deli.. very yummy :)

---

DIRECTIONS

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute onions until translucent. Saute garlic for 1 minute and stir in ground beef. Cook until well browned and crumbled. Season with salt and set aside to cool.

Cook spinach according to package directions.

To the ground beef mixture add the cooked spinach and ricotta cheese. When the mixture is cool, add the beaten eggs.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add manicotti shells and follow directions on the package. Drain and cover with cool water. Sit to cool

Spread 1/4 cup spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Gently drain the manicotti shells and carefully stuff each one with the meat and cheese mixture; place shells in prepared dish.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Prepare the white sauce by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and chicken bouillon. Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly, until it begins to bubble. Stir in half and half and bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in parsley.
Pour or ladle the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle Salt and pepper over top, to your liking (taste)

Stir the basil into the remaining spaghetti sauce. Carefully pour or ladle spaghetti sauce over the white sauce, trying to layer the sauces without mixing.
bake for 40 minutes.
Remove from oven, and sprinkle with grated cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Bake, uncovered, for 10 minutes more.

Great served with rice!

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup chopped onion

6 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 pound ground beef

1 tablespoon salt, or to taste

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

1 (12 ounce) package manicotti shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

2 eggs, beaten

3 cups spaghetti sauce, divided

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 pkg of oxo chicken broth powder (or 2 tbsp of what you use)

2 cups half-and-half

2 tablespoons parsley

1 tablespoon basil

salt and pepper to taste

1 cup grated cheese

3/4 cup grated parmesan

Tastin' is Believin' Chicken

2009-02-16T18:35:00.000-08:00

WOW this is incredible!!!! soo good.. in fact, my oldest son was so full, yet he was saying he wishes he had more room to eat MORE.. it was that good.. and my husband right away scooped up what was left for his lunch tomorrow :)..

this recipe came from my friend Melissa's grandmother..

and if you want a crock pot version, my friend Brie made one here

but she uses Russian dressing instead of French. Either will work :)

5-6 chicken breasts

1 pkg onion soup mix

1 bottle french dressing

1 can whole cranberry sauce

preheat oven.

place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Sprinkle the entire Onion Soup

Mix over the top then pour the french Dressing and cranberry sauce over the top and kind of "mush" it all together with a spoon.

Bake in a 350 degree oven for ~1 hour

SpicE cAke

2009-02-14T14:16:00.001-08:00

i used to make this cake years and years ago.. actually it came from my highschool cooking teacher! we made it in her class.. and i kept the recipe all these years.

My ex boss gave me these heart shaped pans before i moved.. saying they were so "me" ( i tend to put hearts on everything!! :)).. so i used them today for Valentine's day cake :)..

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups flour

1 cup sugar

1-1/2 cups brown sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp all spice

1 tsp nutmeg

1-1/2 cups milk

1 cup margarine
4 eggs

----

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350*

grease 2 square baking pans.

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, and beat until mixed well.

Poor evenly into the pans.

Bake for 40 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

cool and ice as desired.

Chocolatey chocolate Zucchini bread

2009-02-11T13:30:00.000-08:00

mmmmmmmmm sooo chocolatey, and it's nice and moist.. PERFECT :)

I'm sure you can add nuts if that's your preference.. my son can't have nuts in his classroom, so i try not to put in nuts if i know he'll take some to school :)

INGREDIENTS

2 (1 ounce) squares unsweetened chocolate

3 eggs

2 cups white sugar

1 cup sour cream

1 cup vegetable oil

2 1/2 cups grated zucchini (one zucchini unpeeled)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 tbsp cocoa

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

-------------------------

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Lightly grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans. In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave chocolate until melted. Stir occasionally until chocolate is smooth.

In a large bowl, combine eggs, sugar, sour cream, oil, grated zucchini, vanilla and chocolate; beat well.

Stir in the flour baking soda, salt, cinnamon and cocoa. Fold in the chocolate chips. Pour batter into prepared loaf pans.

Bake in preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

2009-02-10T18:55:00.001-08:00

I made this for dinner tonight and it's really good!!!! I'd make it next time with a gravy and mashed or baked potato, just to have a bit of a sauce with it.. but my husband said it's great as is!! and he even packed away leftovers for tomorrows lunch :)

dip the chicken in the butter garlic mixture

then into the bread crumb onion mix
into a baking pan.. and pour the leftover of butter mix over top

INGREDIENTS

1 cup dry bread crumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 (3 ounce) can French-fried onions

1 teaspoon mustard

1/2 cup butter2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

5-6 chicken breast, skinless

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the bread crumbs, cheese, onions, and mustard; set aside. Melt butter in a small saucepan; add garlic and Worcestershire sauce, and saute garlic until tender. Remove from heat.Dip chicken breasts in garlic butter mixture, then roll in bread crumb and cheese mixture, coating thoroughly. Place coated chicken in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter mixture.Bake in the preheated oven for approx 50 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.

Chicken & Linguine in Creamy Tomato Sauce

2009-02-04T18:13:00.000-08:00

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2 inch strips

salt/pepper to taste
1 jar (26oz) Ragu Pasta sauce
2 cups water
8 oz cooked linguine
1/2 cup whipping or heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped

In skillet, heat oil over med heat and brown chicken. salt and pepper to taste.

Remove chicken and set aside.

In same skillet, stir in pasta sauce and water, bring to boil over high heat. Stir in cooked linguine (follow directions on pkg). Add cooked chicken. Reduce to low and simmer covered, stirring occasionally until ready to serve

Stir in cream and basil. Cook 5 more min.

Ground Beef, Vegie and Potato Bake

2009-02-02T19:10:00.000-08:00

this is really good! I wasn't sure, with the spices and such, but it's really good and different. It is a cozy feeling meal :)

First layer
Second layer

Top layer

INGREDIENTS

1 pound ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 onion, chopped (i left them out)

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, chopped

1/2 tablespoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1 pinch ground cinnamon

1 cup water

1/8 cup red wine

1 cube beef bouillon

3 tablespoons half-and-half

6 potatoes, peeled and sliced

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Lightly grease a casserole dish.In a skillet over medium heat, cook the beef until evenly brown.

Remove beef from skillet, drain fat and set aside. In the empty skillet Mix in the olive oil, 1/2 cup water and saute the green pepper, onion, carrot, and celery until tender.Return beef to the skillet, and season with paprika, salt, black pepper, red pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir in the other 1/2 cup water and red wine until heated through. Dissolve the beef bouillon cube into the mixture. Remove skillet from heat, and mix in the half-and-half.

Layer the bottom of the prepared casserole dish with enough potato slices to cover. Place the beef and vegetable mixture over the potatoes, and top with remaining potatoes. Salt/Pepper to taste on top.

Cook, covered, 45 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the potatoes are tender.

Skewed Chicken w/ Orange Glaze

2009-01-31T18:48:00.001-08:00

I saw this on the Biggest loser, they had a chef - Curtis Stone.. totally cool guy! and right away it inspired me to make his kabobs.. I didn't make rosemary skews like he did on the show, but i still followed his recipe :) (minus ginger).. so my recipe is below. i served it with a side of rice. Very healthy meal :)

this was great, my kids picked what they wanted on theirs! if one doesn't like onions, it's great! you just don't add them!
the sauce

MMM so GOOD..

Juice of 3 oranges (i used a cup of unsweetened frozen OJ)
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp. honey
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch cubes

(any vegie you'd like. i used fresh mushrooms, green peppers, onion and zucchini)
skews

Instructions
Preheat a grill or grill pan on medium high heat.
Place the orange juice into a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until the orange juice has the consistency of a very thin syrup. Add the Dijon, honey, garlic and continue cooking over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat to allow flavors to meld and reserve.

Evenly divide the cubed chicken along the skewer
Lightly brush the grill with oil and grill chicken for 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F on an instant read thermometer.

(I broiled in broiler on high for 3-5 minutes each side)
Remove skewers from the grill to a serving plate, drizzle with the orange sauce and serve immediately

Meatless Chili

2009-01-23T06:41:00.000-08:00

I think everyone does their chili differently, with ingredients they love!! all i did was switch up my ground beef for "vegie beef".. (fake beef? LOL)..

I served this to the entire family, and it was a hit all around. My husband is anti tofu/healthy crap.. HAHA.. but he said this was good =).. it's a start!!! i have hope! hee.

and used all my regular ingredients which are:

----

1 onion, cut up

10 fresh mushrooms, sliced

1-2 celery stocks, sliced

1 garlic clove, small slices

1 can of beans in tomato sauce

1 can of tomato soup

1 can of corn

1 can of red kidney beans

1 can of stewed or diced tomatoes

1 can of chili style beans

2 pkg vegetable ground (if you want that ground beef "feel" to it)

2-3 tbsp chilli

salt/pepper to taste

mix it all together on low, for 4 hours
serve with a tbsp or two of sour cream, if desired.

Grilled TOFU Pita's

2009-01-21T12:12:00.000-08:00

I wouldn't post this if i didn't think it was worth 5 stars. I'm in the "beginning stages" of trying tofu.. and i LOVE this.. i think my kids would eat it too, if they don't analyze it! lol..

It's really good. You can OMIT Cheese if you are vegan, or don't eat dairy :)

this is a recipe for ONE.. but of course, you can make many :)

INGREDIENTS

1 pita bread round

3 tablespoons mayonnaise (depending on what YOU like)

1 tomato, sliced

1/2 cup sliced up medium tofu

1 pinch salt/pepper

1/4 cup shredded cheese, optional

========================

DIRECTIONS

Preheat your oven's broiler.

Split the pita bread in half so that you have 2 round pieces.

Spread a little mayonnaise on each half. Place tomato slices onto ONE of the halves, (sprinkle cheese on tomato, optional).

Cut off 1/2 cup size tofu from the package, and place it on a paper towel to "dry".. cut into thin slices, and place tofu pieces onto the other pita side, sprinkle salt/pepper over.

Place the open sandwiches on a large baking sheet.

Broil in the preheated oven until hot and bread is slightly toasted, about 2 -4 minutes. Close the halves of each sandwich together, and cut into wedges to serve.

Shar's Tofu Stir Fry

2009-01-17T12:39:00.001-08:00

This recipe is only rated by myself and my daughter,

who are both willing to make some changes in our eating habits..

we give this a 5/5 star rating :)

This is a lunch serving, or serving for "one"

INGREDIENTS:

(basically any vegies YOU like).. but i chose

1 tbsp oil

1/2 cup medium - firm tofu

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/2 orange pepper, cut in slices

1/2 yellow pepper, cut in slices

1/2 red pepper, cut in slices

3 whole mushrooms, cut in slices

1 celery stalk, cut in slices

1/2 onion, cut in slices

2 tsp soya sauce

salt/pepper to taste (not a lot, just a sprinkle of each)

----------------------

DIRECTIONS:
cut off 1/2 cup piece of tofu and place on paper towel to remove moisture.

Heat up oil in a skillet on med/high heat.

cut the tofu into little squares and place into the skillet.

Brown the tofu.

Add 1/2 cup water, carrots, peppers, mushrooms, celery and onion (or your vegie choice) to the skille with the tofu. mix. Place lid and let sit on "medium" heat for 10 min. or until vegies are crisp but not soggy. Add the soya sauce, salt/pepper to taste, and serve.

Can serve on rice or noodles :)

ENGLISH BATTERED BUNS

2009-01-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

these are SO good and so easy!!!!!! they are soft inside.. very nice :)

Ingredients

===

2 (1/4 ounce) packages active dry yeast

1 cup milk, warm (110 to 115) (i used microwave)

1/2 cup shortening

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 eggs, beaten

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions

===

1 In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in milk.

2 Add shortening, sugar, salt, eggs and 2 cups of flour; beat 2 minutes.

3 Stir in remaining flour until smooth.

4 Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.

5 Stir batter vigorously for 25 strokes (dough will be slightly sticky).

6 Spoon into 12 greased muffin cups. 7

Tap pan to settle the batter.

8 Cover and let rise until batter reaches tops of cups, about 20 minutes.

9 Bake at 400 for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.

10 Brush with melted butter.

Chicken Parmesan Bundles

2009-01-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

This was sooooooooooo good.. so good!!! i got the recipe from Melissa, who got it from a kraft magazine.. and i LOVE chicken parmesan!!!! and this recipe is about the best i've made. My husband looked at it and said "YOU made this?".. he thought i bought them premade like that! hee.. what a compliment!

I use my rolling pin to pound my chicken.. have yet to receive the real meat tenderizer hammer as a gift.. maybe i need to buy one myself. HEE
*before it heads into the oven* (I don't use toothpicks)

MMMM!!!!

SOOOO good..

INGREDIENTS:

---
4 oz. (1/2 of 8-oz. pkg.) Cream Cheese, softened
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, well drained
1-1/4 cups Mozzarella or marble Cheese, divided
6 Tbsp. Grated Parmesan Cheese, divided
6 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1-1/2 lb.), pounded to 1/4-inch thickness
1 egg
10 RITZ Crackers, crushed (about 1/2 cup)
1-1/2 cups spaghetti sauce, heated

DIRECTIONS:

---
PREHEAT oven to 375ºF. Mix cream cheese, spinach, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese and 3 Tbsp. of the Parmesan cheese until well blended; spread evenly onto chicken breasts. Starting at one of the short ends of each breast, roll up chicken tightly. Secure with wooden toothpicks, if desired. Set aside. BEAT egg in shallow bowl or pie plate. Mix remaining 3 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese and the cracker crumbs in separate shallow bowl or pie plate. Dip chicken bundles in egg, then roll in crumb mixture. Place, seam-sides down, in 13x9-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. BAKE 30 min. or until chicken is cooked through (165ºF). Remove and discard toothpicks, if using. Serve topped with the spaghetti sauce and remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese.

Shar's Beef Pot Pie

2009-01-09T17:49:00.000-08:00

This is my own little creation and it worked out really well !!!

i made my own trusty pastry that you can find HERE

Prep takes 2 - 1/2 hours to make this

INGREDIENTS for INSIDE:

(you can add ANY vegies and such that YOU like)

========================

1 pk or 2 large pk's of stirfry beef (stew beef works too)

4 potatoes, cut in 1 inch pieces

2 cups of peas

2 pkgs of brown gravy

4 cups of water

salt/pepper

========================

DIRECTIONS:

brown the stirfry beef in a skillet, set aside.

once the meat is cooled enough, break it into pieces, mix it with the potatoes and peas in a large casserole dish with a lid.

Mix the water and brown gravy pkg's together, and mix with the meat, and vegies. Salt and pepper to taste

cover, Bake in preheated oven at 375 for one hour.

let cool on a rack for a half hour

================

DOUGH:

follow directions HERE

you'll need 2 bread type pans (picture above)

the first two parts of the pastry are for the "bottom" of the 2 pans, roll it out flat, and fill each pan with the pastry, pour over the "filling" until it's to the top.

roll out flat and cut the "third" part of the pastry in half.

place each one on top of each pan. seal edges

using a knife, just make various cuts at the top, for air holes.

Bake in a preheated 350* oven for one hour.

BASIC Yellow Cake

2009-01-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my sons 17th birthday.. and we always get a cake on our birthdays in this family.. usually it's store bought since they're older.. but this time he wasn't picky and had no preference.. so i took out the old cookbook (real old.. my mom gave it to me before i started my family in 1988, for my "graduation Hope Chest")..

it's my trusty "sure thing" recipe for cake, that i used when my kids were very little..

as you can see, the book itself has been well used and it's almost embarrassing the torment it's gone through!!! haha.. but it's well loved, that's what counts

INGREDIENTS:

3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened

1 - 2/3 cups sugar

2 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

3 cups flour

2 - 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 - 1/3 cups milk

DIRECTIONS:

Beat butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla in large bowl.

In another bowl, sift dry ingredients together. Add alternately with milk to the wet mixture in the other bowl. Beat until smooth.

Pour into greased 13X9X2 cake pan

Bake in preheated 350* oven for 30 minutes. Cool and Ice to liking.

Snow Flake Cocoa

2009-01-04T21:36:00.000-08:00

Next year we're going to make this for xmas morning :).. it's pretty sweet, so once a year treat is enough! lol

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup whipping cream

6 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 package white chocolate chips

Garnish: Whipped cream Candy canes

DIRECTIONS

Stir together the whipping cream, milk, vanilla, and white chocolate chips in a slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until mixture is hot and chocolate chips are melted. Stir again before serving.

(i put it on high and cut the time in half :)

Garnish with whipped cream and candy canes, as desired.

Cheesy Ham & Hashbrown Casserole

2009-01-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

This is a GREAT breakfast to have if you have a group of people, and don't need much prep for it. You just toss everything together and throw it in the oven for an hour.

We had this New years Day for breakfast, and was a hit! Next year I'd make it for Christmas morning, so it cooks while the gift opening is going on :)

INGREDIENTS

1 (32 ounce) package frozen hash brown potatoes

8 ounces cooked, diced ham

2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of potato soup (i used cream of mushroom)

1 (16 ounce) container sour cream

2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix hash browns, ham, cream of potato soup, sour cream, and Cheddar cheese. Spread evenly into prepared dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake 1 hour in the preheated oven, or until bubbly and lightly brown. Serve immediately.

Our favorite simple Buttertarts

2008-12-22T10:32:00.001-08:00

if you'd like you can use the recipe on my blog for the "pastry" part to this.

*you can find that here*

or you can use your own or store bought premade :)

THIS recipe is for 24 Buttertarts..

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups brown sugar

1 cup golden/yellow corn syrup

1 cup soft butter

4 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

2 tsp vinegar

2 cups of raisins

mix all ingredients together in a bowl

if using my pastry recipe..

take out each of the doughs and roll it out flat.

using flour to keep it from sticking to the counter and your rolling pin.

using a large circled object (lid of some sort) you can shape your tart pastry, or you can cut it by hand into a circle big enough to fit in a muffin tin (my son helps me :) )

place each round pastry into an "UNGREASED" Muffin tin
Pour the mixed buttertart mix into each of the pastries.. filling to near the top
Bake at 425 for 5 minutes, then turn it down to 325 and bake for another 15-17 min.
Keep an eye on them, until they are light golden brown around the edges.

Allow tarts to cool before removing from pan...

then set on cooling rack, until inside is "set"

These freeze well..

Basic Pastry - Pie or Tart

2008-12-22T10:19:00.000-08:00

We've used this recipe for years and years..

it's our sure thing pie crust/pastry tart recipe,

and it's pretty simple...

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups flour

1-1/2 cups butter/margarine

1/4 cup water (give or take some.. to get a good dough texture)

Mix all ingredients in a bowl..

make three dough piles, and flatten them. Wrap in plastic wrap, and put in the fridge for an hour, or overnight.

May also FREEZE these portions and use when needed.

"ONE" flat of dough = One pie crust

"all THREE" flats = 24 tarts

Quick & Easy Shortbread cookies

2008-12-13T16:49:00.000-08:00

finally, we made shortbread for our gift box this xmas.

These are a simple version of shortbread that i've used since i can remember..

this recipe is doubled.. makes appox 35 cookies

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups margarine

1 cup icing sugar

1 cup cornstarch

3 cups flour

1 tsp vanilla

DIRECTIONS:

Beat together butter & sugar. continue to beat in cornstarch, flour & vanilla. Combine well. Cut with cookie cutters or in any shape you'd like (I use the end of a glass)

Bake at 350* for 12-15 min

Icing for shortbread:

2 cups icing sugar

1/2 cup butter

1 tps vanilla

milk as needed, keep adding a bit of milk at a time until your texture is smooth and thick.

Use food coloring if you'd like, and add sprinkles for deco

and so we finally boxed up the goodies :).. I always make up a paper with all the recipe ingredients, you never know who may have food allergies... plus they can make their own, if they like what i've made for them :)
It's been a long day for my daughter and i.. time to toss the aprons in the laundry and call it a day :)

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

2008-12-13T15:25:00.001-08:00

i've made these many times, they are a huge hit anywhere i take them!!! Last year i made them for BJ's cookie party, which i am so sad to miss this year due to moving :((((..

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup chocolate chips

2 squares (2oz) unsweetened chocolate

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter

2 eggs

1 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla

1-1/2 cups (plus 2 tbsp) flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 cups finely chopped almonds

36 or so (a bag) of miniature peanut butter cups (frozen)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine chocolate in bowl and microwave for approx 2 min. stir.. until melted

cool slightly.

Combine sugar, butter in large bowl. Beat. Add eggs, salt and vanilla. Beat.

Add chocolate and mix by hand.

Stir in flour, b. soda and shape into 1-1/4 inch balls. Roll in finely chopped almonds. place on an ungreased cookie sheet

Bake for 8-10 min.

Immediate press "unwrapped" frozen peanut butter cup in the centre of each cookie.
don't touch them once you've pressed the p. cup inside.. leave to solidify

our family Bon Bons

2008-12-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

i found this recipe years ago, and always make it for xmas. they are very good, but sweet! i love to keep them in the freezer and eat them frozen :).

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup margarine, softened

1 bag of icing sugar (1 kg)

1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk

3 cups coconut

1 cup finely chopped walnuts

1 tsp vanilla

2 pkgs milk chocolate chips

2 tbsp margarine

In large bowl combine margarine, sugar, condensed milk, coconut, walnuts & vanilla. Stir well. Cover and chill in the fridge for 2 hours.

Roll the mixture into 1 inch balls
line a cookie sheet with waxed paper. Combine 1 bag of chocolate chips with 1 tbsp margarine. Melt in microwave for approx 2 min. Keep stirring.. until melted.
Using a tooth pic, dip each bon bon into the chocolate, and drop onto the lined paper.
Melt the next pkg of chocolate chips with 1 tsp margarine. Be careful not to overmelt it..
here's an example of my mistake today.. the left bowl was in the microwave too long... it doesn't work, and i had to toss it out.. the right picture is what it should look like, smoothly melted
dip all the bon bons until they are used up.
Put in the freezer for 20 minutes..

i like to freeze the bons bons in a container or plastic bags.

My daughter packaged these ones up for her friends for xmas :)

here's what the bon bon looks like up close, when it's all hardened and set :)

Chocolate Almond Pieces

2008-12-13T12:44:00.000-08:00

This is the second baking we did for our gift boxes.. i've made this before, it's simple and yummy!

INGREDIENTS:

6 cups milk chocolate chips or pieces

1 tbsp butter

2 cups almond pieces

Melt chocolate pieces with butter in a bowl in the microwave, approx 3 min? mix in between.. keep checking on it
pour melted chocolate into a foil covered cookie sheet
smooth over the complete cookie sheet and sprinkle with the almonds
put in the freezer for 20 minutes.
break off pieces and serve :)

Cream Cheese Christmas Cookies

2008-12-13T08:53:00.000-08:00

Today, my daughter and i did up our baking boxes for gifts. We've had so much fun!!!

the first cookie we made (we made 6) was this one.. and they turned out so well!!! they are an "overnight" planned cookie though, you have to put them in the fridge overnight :)

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup butter, softened

1 (8oz) pkg cream cheese

1 cup white sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

2 -1/2 cups flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup pecans

1/2 cup green & red sugar crystals

1 cup pecan halves

Cream together butter & Cream cheese. Add sugar & vanilla and beat until fluffy.

Combine flour & salt. Gradually add to the creamed cheese mixture, beating until well blended.

Stir in chopped Pecans. Cover bowl with plastic wrap & refridgerate for 15-20 min.
On four sheets of aluminum foil, shape dough into four 6 inch long rolls, 1 1/2 inches thick. Wrap each roll tightly in foil and refridgerate overnight.

preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with tin foil. Remove the rolls, one at a time, from the fridge, and roll in sugar crystals (you can mix and match colors)
cut pecans in half, if you bought them whole.. lengthwise

cut the dough into 1/4 inch slices, and place on the foiiled cookie sheet. Add the half pecans on top..

Bake 15-18 min or until bottom of cookie is lightly browned :)

Chili Dog Casserole

2008-12-13T08:37:00.001-08:00

I'm always on the search for "hotdog" recipes. I've made this one for years, but have never posted it for some reason, so thought i'd do this now. It's a hit with kids :)

INGREDIENTS:

2 cans (15oz or so) of Chilli (your fav kind)

1 pkg of 12 hotdogs/weiners

12 flour tortillas

1-2 cups shredded cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F

Spread 1 of the cans of chilli on the bottom of a 9X13 inch baking dish.

roll up hotdogs inside each tortilla and place over the chilli in the baking dish. Seam side down. Pour the other can of chilli on top. Sprinkle with cheese.

cover dish with aluminum foile and bake for 30 minutes.

ButterMilk Chicken

2008-11-26T19:41:00.000-08:00

this is VERY good..

nice and tender and I loved being able to put the sauce onto my mashed potatoes!!!!

yummmm!!

was a nice simple recipe to make :)

1 cut up chicken (i used breast pieces)
1 1/2 cup buttermilk
3/4 cup all purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup margarine
1 can cream of chicken soup

Dip chicken in 1/2 cup of buttermilk. Combine flour salt and pepper and roll chicken in it. Melt butter in 9x13pan. Put chicken skin side down. Bake uncovered at 375 for 30min.

Blend rest of buttermilk and chicken soup and

pour over chicken and bake another 15 - 20 min.

Bacon Cheeseburger Chicken

2008-11-22T07:55:00.000-08:00

this is a recipe from KevinandAmandas page .

it's so good!! i loved it with Rice, and putting the extra sauce over it. I bet it'd be good with mashed potatoes too!!! I love the homemade bacon bits on it.

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter

6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, split

1/4 cup teriyaki sauce

1/2 cup Ranch dressing

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

1/2 lb cooked bacon (or bacon bits)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a large skillet, heat oil & butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts, and saute 4 to 5 minutes each side, until lightly browned. Place browned chicken breasts in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with teriyaki sauce and dressing. Sprinkle with cheese and top with bacon bits. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.

Cornish Pasties

2008-11-21T07:46:00.001-08:00

I have wanted to try making Cornish Pasties (pronounced "PASS-tees") for so long now..

they are an English tradition.

My grandmother was born in Cornwall, England, which is the last county in the southwest of Great Britain, it's surrounded on 3 sides by the sea (doesn't that sound heavenly?). She moved here to Canada and married my mothers father.. & lived happily until she passed away.
-
If not for her, i would not exist.
-

as i was searching photos of her and i.. i realized that my grandmother always stayed in the back.. she was such a classy lady to me. Always quiet and loving and we had many times alone together when we'd just talk. She died when i was 20.

I feel sad that i am taking the limelight in these old photos with her.

She far more deserves to be the one in front...

but it shows what kind of woman she was..

to sit back and observe. I wish to be more like her.

I have been searching recipes, and seriously, there are SOOO many versions.. from potatoes stuffed inside, to rutabagas and i just didn't know what to try..

I took a recipe off the net, and instead of lard, used margarine.. and came up with this.

they are just like a beef pot pie, very good..

and so handy the next day as a lunch sandwich!!!!!!!

(which i read, was the reason it was created..)

the *men folk* would pack it for their lunches and walk to work..

and it held up well for them until they ate them :)

dough:

4 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt

2 cups margarine

1 cup cold water

inside:

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion, finely diced

5 carrots, shredded (optional)

2 pounds ground beef

1 full bunch of green onions, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons milk

To make crust, place flour and salt in a large bowl.

Mix well, then cut in margarine until the mixture is crumbly.

Stir in water, mixing until dough forms a ball.

Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator while you make filling.

To make filling, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add vegetable oil, then onions. If using carrots, add them now.

Saute vegetables until soft, about 10 minutes.

Add ground beef, and green onions to skillet.

Saute until meat is no longer pink. Add salt and pepper to taste.

PREHEAT OVEN TO 425* F

pull off a piece of the dough, enough to make one pastie.. roll flat, in a circle.. Fill one half of the dough with meat filling (be generous, stuff it). Pat the edge of the crust with water, then fold over the other half of the crust. Trim the edge, then crimp to seal. Make steam vents in top of the crust. Brush with milk. Repeat process until all of the dough and all of the filling are gone.

Place each on an ungreased cookie sheet

Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.

how to peel a hard boiled egg

2008-11-20T10:12:00.000-08:00

I first heard about this about 3 weeks ago, when someone sent me this site with Timothy Ferriss.. I thought it was so cool and all, but why had i never heard this? it should be something passed down from generation to generation!! hee..

anyway.. here is what you do.

fill your water into a pot of eggs,

making sure you fill 2 inches above the eggs tops with the water.

Add ONE Tsp of Baking soda

Bring to a boil, and boil for 12 minutes

run the eggs under COLD water for a few minutes..

hit one side of the egg on the counter, making a hole. Peel the end.

Hit the other side on the counter. Peel the end

yah.. i know.. picture is kinda.. yah.

so anyway, you blow on one end.. and believe it or not.. the egg just FLIES out of the shell.
and it plops on the counter, the shell left in a crumble in your hand
the eggs come out PERFECT.. not even one piece of shell had to be removed from them.
This is amazing!!!

At least now, "I" can pass this tidbit on, and onto my kids, so they don't have to feel the frustration of peeling a darn egg! hee.

TRY IT.. it will AMAZE you :)

Oh so good Creamy chicken Fettuccine

2008-11-06T12:33:00.000-08:00

this has been a long time favorite of ours for years now, and I've probably made it for everyone that has come visit me and had dinner at our home.. I often refer to my recipe blog when someone asks for the recipe (everyone loves this that ate it here), but realize it's not on here!

so i'm putting it on now.. we LOVE this a lot as a family :).

12 oz fettuccine, uncooked

8 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch cubes

2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced

1/2 cup diced red/green or colored bell peppers

1 1/2 cups light miracle whip

3/4 cups skim milk

1/4 cup parmesan cheese

3 tbsp minced fresh basil, or 1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp ground pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

Directions:

Prepare pasta according to directions.

Meanwhile, coat a large skillet with oil (1-2 tsp). Add chicken and saute over med-high heat until chicken is golden brown and cooked through (about 5-10 min). Remove chicken from pan. Recoat the skillet with some oil. Add the fresh mushrooms and peppers. Saute until tender. approx 5 min.

Combine the miracle whip, milk, cheese, basil, pepper and paprika in a small bown. Add to the vegetables in the skillet. Add the chicken to the skillet and ehat over med-low heat until thoroughly heated.

When pasta is done, drain and stir into the skillet with the vegetable sauce. Serve immed.

chocolate CHOCOLATEEE chip cookies

2008-11-06T12:23:00.000-08:00

My daughter was bored yesterday and asked me if she could try a new recipe.. but she wanted to do something with chocolate chips.. so i found this one.. and wow.. these cookies are AMAZING.. before i moved, i went to a cookie party, and i'd so make these this year if i could go.. they are soooooo good. Everyone ate them yesterday!

2 cups flour

3/4 cups sugar

3/4 cups brown sugar

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp baking soda

2 cups chocolate chips

2 eggs

1 cup margarine or butter

DIRECTIONS:

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Combine dry ingredients. In a seperate bowl, cream sugars, eggs and butter. Sift dry ingredients into butter.

3. Drop by tsp onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

Quesadilla Club

2008-11-03T08:19:00.000-08:00

FIRST time i've ever made Quesadilla's in my LIFE!! I've ordered them in a restaurant, but not once have i tried.. and I'm so glad i did!! these are delicious!!! it's a definite addition to our family recipe book :)

2 pints grape tomatoes ( i used 3 reg tomatoes, cut up)

1 tablespoon oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

8 slices of bacon, chopped

1 cut up onion (OPTIONAL)

20 - 8-inch flour tortillas (makes 6 quesadillas)

2 cups hard cheese, shredded

cooked chicken pieces (approx 2 cups)

1/2 cup cilantro (a large handful), chopped

---------------

Pre-heat the oven to 400°F.

On a baking sheet, toss the tomatoes with one turn of the pan oil, salt and pepper. Transfer to the oven and roast for about 15 minutes, until popped and flattened a little. Remove and toss into a medium size mixing bowl.

Turn the oven down to 250ºF.

While the tomatoes are roasting, cook the bacon in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until crisp. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate, then toss into the bowl with the tomatoes.

Add the onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until tender. Add to the bowl with the bacon and tomatoes and toss everything together.

1. Place a tortilla in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. (i added a bit of oil)

2. Sprinkle the tortilla with about two tablespoons of shredded cheese

3. top with a quarter of the chicken.

4. Sprinkle with some cilantro and finish with another tablespoon of cheese.

5. Place a tortilla over the chicken-cheese layer, and sprinkle a tablespoon of cheese followed by a quarter of the bacon, leek and tomato mixture. Sprinkle with one last tablespoon or so of cheese

6. then place a tortilla on top to finish the Quesadilla Club off.Cook the quesadilla stack until it gets nice and crispy and golden brown on one side, about 2 minutes.

7. Flip it

Transfer the cooked quesadilla to a baking sheet and place in the oven to keep warm while you repeat the quesadilla-making process with the remaining ingredients.

Serve with sour cream and salsa.. if preferred :)

meatless Lasagna

2008-10-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

continuing our meatless meal a week.. i picked a meatless lasagna to try tonight,

and was it ever GOOD!!!

i'd make this again for sure, and the vegetables are just a nice fresh taste, no meat to interrupt the flavor. We "ALL" loved this, not just me.. it was a family hit.

INGREDIENTS

12 uncooked lasagna noodles

1/2 cup chopped onion

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 cups diced zucchini

1 1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

1 cup thinly sliced carrots

1/2 cup diced green pepper

1/2 cup diced sweet red pepper

1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 cup water

1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS

Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions (or use ready oven noodles)

Meanwhile, in a large saucepan coated with nonstick cooking spray, saute onion and garlic for 3 minutes.

Add the zucchini, mushrooms, carrots and peppers; cook and stir until tender, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the tomatoes, water, tomato paste and seasonings. Bring to a boil. reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

Remove 2 cups sauce and set aside.Drain noodles; set aside. Combine the ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella and the cheddar cheese. In an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish, layer a third of the remaining sauce, four noodles and half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers. Top with remaining sauce and noodles. Spread reserved sauce over top.Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes.

Uncover; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella. Bake 5-10 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 15 minutes before cutting.

RR carbonara frying pan pizza

2008-10-25T18:26:00.000-07:00

I saw this on the talk show, Rachel Ray and it looked so good, that i had to look it up, and try it myself. At first it scared me, as i thought it was NOT going to be enough for my family, but we have leftovers!!!! ONE piece is so filling!!

I absolutely LOVE it.. it reminds me of the cheese ravioli at the olive garden.. mmm

and was excellent served with ceasar salad

Ingredients

5 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided

1/2 pound pancetta or bacon, cut into small dice

2 cloves garlic, grated

1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated

1/2 cup parsley, chopped

2 egg yolks

1 store-bought pizza dough from your favorite pizzeria

1 medium-size ball smoked mozzarella cheese, grated

1/2 cup cherry peppers, sliced

Yields: 4 to 6 servings

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400ºF.

Preheat a medium-size skillet over medium-low heat with 1 turn of the pan of olive oil, about 1 tablespoon. Add pancetta or bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes.

When pancetta or bacon is almost done, add in the garlic and cook until fragrant and toasted. Remove to a mixing bowl, let cool. To the mixing bowl, add the cheeses, parsley and egg yolks, and set aside.

Roll the pizza dough out on a floured surface so it is large enough to fit into a 12-inch skillet (use one that's oven-safe). Before placing the dough into the skillet, drizzle about 3 to 4 tablespoons EVOO on the bottom of the skillet. Lay the dough into the skillet, pressing gently as you work the dough up the sides so it reaches the edge of the skillet.

Fill with the carbonara filling and sprinkle the smoked mozzarella cheese and cherry peppers on top. Pop it into the oven to bake for 55-60 minutes, until the edges and bottom of the crust are golden brown.

spicy grilled cheese sandwich

2008-10-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

again, trying to make some meatless meals.. so i made this sandwich for dinner with tomato soup, and it's really good!!! i'll make them again :).. two of my kids didn't want the peppers or onions, but i had mine with the works!

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons butter or margarine

4 slices white bread

2 slices American cheese

1 roma (plum) tomato, thinly sliced

1/4 small onion, chopped

1 jalapeno pepper

DIRECTIONS

Heat a large skillet over low heat. Spread butter or margarine onto one side of two slices of bread. Place both pieces buttered side down in the skillet. Lay a slice of cheese on each one, and top with slices of tomato, onion and jalapeno. Butter one side of the remaining slices of bread, and place on top buttered side up. When the bottom of the sandwiches are toasted, flip and fry until brown on the other side.

Sour Cream Apple Pie Deluxe

2008-10-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

This is REALLY good, don't let the "sour cream" thought in a PIE freak you out.. it is unreal how it makes you forget it's sour cream.. whoever came up with this recipe musta been drugged up. hahahahaha.. but then it worked! so ya never know!

INGREDIENTS

1 unbaked 9 inch pie crust

3/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 cup sour cream

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 egg

2 cups diced apples

1/3 cup sugar

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup chilled butter, diced

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

Press the pie crust into and up the sides of a 9 inch pie plate. In a medium bowl, stir together 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and salt.

Mix in the sour cream, egg and vanilla until smooth. Add apples, and stir to coat. Scrape the mixture into the pie shell.

Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, then reduce heat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and continue baking for 30 minutes more. While the pie is baking, prepare the topping in a medium bowl.

Stir together 1/3 cup of flour, 1/3 cup sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

After the 30 minute bake time has passed, cover the top of the pie with the crumb topping, and continue to bake for 15 minutes, or until topping is lightly browned and apples are tender.

Allow the pie to cool on a rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving!! overnight if possible.. for the pie to "set"

PINWHEEL CINNAMON BISCUITS

2008-10-21T13:00:00.001-07:00

I used to have these a lot as a kid, and somewhere along the line i lost the recipe.. but thanks to the good ol' internet, i discovered it again, and made some up for my family :)

2 c. sifted flour

1 tbsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1/4 c. butter/margarine

3/4 c. milk

1/4 cup butter/margarine

topping:

8 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp cinnamon

raisins (optional)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Grease each compartment of a muffin pan (12 muffin size).

Sift flour in a large bowl. Add baking powder and salt and nix with a fork. Cut in buttter until mixture looks like “meal”. Stir in milk with a fork to moisten ingredients. The mixture should round up into a ball (too much stirring makes a tough biscuit).
Place dough on a lightly floured board. Roll the ball around gently 3 to 4 times to coat lightly with flour. Knead 10 times.
Lightly roll the dough into a rectangle 7 x 12 inch. Melt butter on stove, or microwave. Spread over rectangled dough.
Mix 8 tablespoons brown sugar and 2 tbsp cinnamon together and sprinkle over dough. (sprinkle with raisins is optional)

Starting at the long side roll up like a jelly roll. Cut into 12 slices. Place each slice into a muffin tin hole. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes.

20 years old Bakers hot Chocolate

2008-10-13T16:26:00.000-07:00

this is from lisa's week on the recipe group, my husband started up the gas fireplace today and i thought it'd be a nice day, thanksgiving day, to have a nice cup of hot chocolate.. this is really good! We'll make it again :) only next time i want marshmallows on hand!!

2 ounces (squares) baking chocolate

1 cup water

3 tablespoons sugar

Dash salt

3 cups milk

Directions:
Cook chocolate and water over low heat until chocolate is melted. Add sugar and salt; boil 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Add milk gradually, stirring constantly and heat over boiling water. Beat until frothy before serving.

JuIcY pork Chops

2008-10-12T08:42:00.000-07:00

I am pleasantly surprised at these!! I have a hard time finding a good pork chop recipe that makes the pork nice and tender and this is SOOO That!! and it has a great taste.. only thing is, you really do have to get it marinating overnight :)

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons jarred minced garlic

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 pound (1 inch thick) boneless pork chops

DIRECTIONS

In a large resealable bag, mix together the soy sauce, minced garlic, and pepper. Place the pork chops into the bag, squeeze out most of the air, seal, and marinate for 12 hours in the refrigerator. Turn the bag over about halfway through.Preheat the oven's broiler. Place the pork chops onto a broiling pan. Broil for 5 - 10 minutes per side, or to your desired doneness. Time will be different depending on the thickness of your chops

PASTA with Tomato Cream sauce

2008-10-09T18:48:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to make at least one meal a week a "NON meat" meal.. this went over well with my family :) just tastes like spaghetti without the meat!

INGREDIENTS

1 (28 ounce) jar tomato pasta sauce

1 cup half-and-half

2 cloves garlic, pressed

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 tablespoon dried basil

1 (8 ounce) package angel hair pasta

1/8 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS

In a large saucepan combine pasta sauce, half and half, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg and basil. Simmer over low heat for 45 to 50 minutes; do not boil.Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.Toss pasta with sauce and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

INCREDIBLY Cheezy Meatloaf

2008-10-09T18:44:00.000-07:00

There really ARE so many recipes for meatloaf out there!! but the one thing i loved about this, was that there are vegetables cooked right in there! and you really can't even with the taste of it!! My kids ate it without a fuss :)

INGREDIENTS

2 pounds ground beef OR turkey

1 cup milk

1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs

2 eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 cup shredded cheese

1/2 cup shredded zucchini (optional)

1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)

1/2 cup ketchup (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

In a bowl, mix the turkey, milk, bread crumbs, and eggs by hand.

Season with salt and pepper. Fold the cheese into the mixture.

Transfer to a loaf pan/cake pan top with ketchup.

Bake 1 hour in the preheated oven

Sweet Honey French Bread

2008-10-07T07:48:00.000-07:00

I made this to go with the soup below, and it was sooo good, and SO easy. I won't ever buy bread again, it's just easy to make my own! 3/4 cup water

2 teaspoons honey

2 teaspoons oil

2/3 teaspoon salt

2/3 teaspoon white sugar

2 cups bread flour

1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast or bread machine yeast

DIRECTIONS

Add to your bread machine per manufacturer instructions. Just before it starts to "raise".. move it from the machine, and into a long strip onto a greased cookie sheet.. cover with a tea towerl and let it rise for 20 min - 30 min.
brush with egg white for golden top and bake at 375 for 20 minutes.

Ps. This CAN be finished off in a bread machine, as you would with making any bread.. but for a french bread look, it's better on a cookie sheet in a long log shape :)

Bacon, Cheese & Potato Chowder

2008-10-07T07:27:00.000-07:00

this is Marey's recipe this week.. and it was really good!!! I DOUBLED this, to get a perfect portion for my family of 5 :)

3 cups fat-free milk (used skim milk)

1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed cream of potato soup

2 cups frozen Southern-style hash browns

1 cup Cheese

2 slices Bacon, crisply cooked, drained and crumbled

2 green onions, thinly sliced

Directions:

MIX milk and soup in large saucepan. Stir in hash browns. Bring to boil on high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 10 min., stirring frequently.

SERVE

topped with cheese, bacon and onions. sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper

Syrupy APPLE Crisp

2008-10-06T07:37:00.001-07:00

SERIOUSLY!! sooooooooooooooooo good.. the syrup gives it an added touch that is just delicious!!!! "top with vanilla icecream" :)

this didn't make it to a leftover container.. HEE.

INGREDIENTS:

5 -6 med/large apples - peeled, cored and sliced

2/3 cup pancake syrup

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup brown sugar

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 pinch salt

3/4 cup rolled oats

DIRECTIONS:

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2.Place the apples in an 8x8 inch baking dish. Pour the syrup over the apples. In a bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar. Stir in the flour, salt and oats. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples.

3.Bake in preheated oven 35 minutes, until golden and bubbly and apples are tender.

PIZZA Dough

2008-10-05T16:07:00.000-07:00

this is made with the same master mix as the recipe below, the Dutch apple cake. Surprisingly!

it's sooo good, especially if you like thin crust pizza WITHOUT yeast.

Master Mix
1 -1/2 cup flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup shortening

INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine ingred. Cut in shortening..
you can freeze this and use as needed.
--------------------------------------------

Master mix + 1 cup milk = DOUGH for pizza

roll out, press onto a round pizza pan and cover with favorite toppings.

Bake for 20 min at 400*

DUTCH APPLE CAKE

2008-10-05T15:50:00.000-07:00

this is my daughters recipe from school. She's made it a few times and we LOVE it!!!

Today she made it again for us :)

PART ONE:

Master Mix

1 -1/2 cup flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup shortening

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine ingred. Cut in shortening..

you can freez this and use as needed.

--------------------------------------------

PART TWO:

DUTCH APPLE CAKE:

Master Mix from above

4 tbsp Sugar

2 eggs

1/2 cup milk

2-3 apples

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

6 tbsp sugar

4 tbsp melted butter

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat to 400*. Grease round cake pan or round dish.

Mix master mix with 4 tbsp sugar in med bowl.

Beat Egg with milk in a measuring cup with fork. Add to the dry ingred. stir until moisture.

Spread batter evenly in pan using spatula.

Meanwhile:

Peel apples, cut into wedges. Place apples in circular fasion on top of the batter.

sprinkle with cinnamon mix. pour melted butter over.

Bake 15-20 min. until apples are cooked and edges are browned. Cool 5 min. Cut and serve.

APPLE oatmeal cookies

2008-10-05T15:33:00.000-07:00

it'a apple baking week for me, so expect tons of apple recipes.. (if they turn out)

my tree is bare, and i'm baking up a storm!!!

These are VERY good!!! and semi healthy. hee

INGREDIENTS:

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups rolled oats

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup raisins

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 apple - peeled, cored and shredded

1/2 cup confectioners' sugar

1 tablespoon milk

DIRECTIONS:

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

2.Mix together brown sugar and margarine until light and fluffy.

3.Beat in eggs and vanilla.

4.Mix in the rest of the ingredients, except for powdered sugar and milk.

Stir until well blended.

5.Drop on cookie sheet and bake 9 to 12 minutes.

6.Mix powdered sugar and milk in small bowl and drizzle over cooled cookies.