cooking brisket: 2011

Merry CHRISTmas!

Of course... they've not been mailed. And, true to my own personal habit... they'll be late. BUT, they ARE ready to be dropped off at the Post Office tomorrow!

May we all remember the reason for the season, and be a bit kinder to each other.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

What's Cooking - 12/3 Edition

I've GOT to get back on track with planning out our menu's and publishing them to my blog. I am WAY more apt to follow a meal plan if it's public. Weird... but it works.

This week's Bountiful Basket was packed full of great foods. I am excited about the foods I've planned to cook (which is kind of important if I'm going to actually make them!)

Here's a photo of what we got in our basket this week:

Photo by Brandi Hall (a fellow Justin BB participant)

We received broccoli, a bunch of radishes, a handful of cucumbers, a pineapple, lots of persimmons, tomatoes, oranges, onions, several green bell peppers, butter lettuce, blackberries, apples, and pears.

Here's what I'm planning to serve this week:

~ Meatloaf, baked potatoes, and sauteed cabbage
~ Broccoli and chicken with brown rice
~ Pear, cucumber, radish, persimmon, pineapple with mixed green salad. Served with broiled salmon.
~ Brown rice and quinoa stuffed green peppers. Served with steamed broccoli
~ Enchiladas made with a sauce that will include the tomatoes and onions.
~ Two nights leftovers somewhere along the line.

I'm also going to bake a few loaves of pumpkin banana bread, honey whole wheat multi grain bread and one batch of chocolate peanut butter rice krispie rolls. I want to have at least one lunch of marinated cucumber salad. However, we're expecting some yucky weather this week. So, I expect to eat some belly filling food like beans and rice! HEAVENLY!

What are you making this week?

What are you making this week?

2011 Ales Family Thanksgiving Menu

I'm 99% sure that the above is what we're having. What about you? What are you having for your Thanksgiving dinner?

P.S. A huge thank you to Anything but Perfect for the printable freebie that I used for my graphic above. Get yours free on her blog here!

30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude: Day 4

This month, I am working on focusing on the many things I have to be grateful for. I'm calling it "30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude." I know I have much to be grateful for, much of which I overlook. It is my hope that I can remember these things, and focus on the many positives I have in my life!

Today, I am grateful that, because of my husbands hard work, we have the money to buy groceries and the money to buy ingredients to make things we don't need to eat to survive.

To many of us, that's such a small simple thing. We probably take it for granted. I know I have.

Last night, I was baking cookies to take over to a friend who's got the icks running through her house. Her little guy is sick, but generally will eat "Cookie Lady" cookies (he couldn't say my name. He knows me as Freddy's Mommy too though!).

As I was making the dough, I got side tracked talking with Fred and Steve. (For the life of me, I can't remember what we were talking about), and had the sugars, butter, eggs, and vanilla all mixed together. I started adding the dry ingredients, and turned the mixer on. On High.

I made a lovely mess. All over myself. All over the kitchen. Batter in my flour container (why did I not put the lid back on? Lesson learned!) There was batter and flour everywhere. I'm actually STILL finding it, and in the oddest of places too. Anyway...

The point is, I am so grateful that I have the ingredients on hand to make something that isn't necessary, but is nice to have. I am grateful that because of budgeting (not my forte) and because of my husbands hard work, we are able to have these things on hand and that we don't have to financially struggle to have them handy.

I am grateful that I don't stay up at night wondering where our next meal is going to come from.

I am grateful that I am able to share meals with family and friends, and while it is not gourmet or high end, I don't have to worry about whether it's going to break my budget.

I am grateful that I live in a country where I can have food storage for an emergency, and that it's okay to keep a full pantry. (Believe it or not, you can't do that in every country. It's actually illegal in many!)

Are you participating in any type of Gratitude challenge this month? Please let me know, I'd LOVE to read your posts too!

Thank you to Kerri Bradford of Kerri Bradford Studio for permission to use her "The Dailies" and "This + That: Gratitude" kits in my button and graphic design for this series!

30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude: Day 3

This month, I am working on focusing on the many things I have to be grateful for. I'm calling it "30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude." I know I have much to be grateful for, much of which I overlook. It is my hope that I can remember these things, and focus on the many positives I have in my life!

Today, I am grateful for my home.

When I say "home" I am referring to the place in which my family resides, not our house. (However, I am grateful for our house!)

When I was a teenager, I remember being asked what I was most scared of - in the whole world.

I was terrified of not having somewhere to go. Being stranded, and not being able to get to where my family was, or just not having somewhere to go that was where I belonged.

I grew up living overseas because of my fathers awesome career with the United States Air Force. We moved every 3-4 years. The longest place we were stationed was Berlin, Germany and that was 4 years. So, when people ask me where I'm from, I didn't have a hometown. I couldn't say I was from a particular state (though I was born in one state, and lived for a bit in another when I was in 5th grade), or even a town.

I've lived in two states, for longer than any other state in the United States. I lived in Ohio for 6 years - and living in one area for that long was quite a feat. However, I have lived in Texas for... get this... hold on to your drawers... 9 years.

I know, you're thinking... 9 years. That's something to be proud of?

For me, it is. It really, really is.

Source

I am officially from Texas. I'm a Texan (I can even fake a great accent!). Even more so, I love the town I live in. I love that it's small enough that I can get straight to the Mayor or our City Manager (literally within minutes!). I love that I remember "back when" that shopping center, housing development, highway, school, etc, was a field. I love that I can remember when some of the kids around me really were kids (and now some of them are married, are graduating from college, or are even just getting into high school).

I am grateful that I have a place, a location, to call home.

I am incredibly grateful that I have a place where I feel (mostly) that I belong. This is where I need to be, with my sweet little family, and in a community where I feel like I am contributing, building roots, building relationships, and getting to know others who are here too.

I am grateful that my heart is here, that my home is here, and that I am here.

Are you participating in any type of Gratitude challenge this month? Please let me know, I'd LOVE to read your posts too!

Thank you to Kerri Bradford of Kerri Bradford Studio for permission to use her "The Dailies" and "This + That: Gratitude" kits in my button and graphic design for this series!

30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude: Day 2

This month, I am working on focusing on the many things I have to be grateful for. I'm calling it "30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude." I know I have much to be grateful for, much of which I overlook. It is my hope that I can remember these things, and focus on the many positives I have in my life!

Today, I am grateful for my husband Steve.

When I was a young woman, I remember writing letters to my future husband. In these letters, I shared my dreams and aspirations for our courtship, relationship, and many, many illogical wants (hey, I was 14!). I could never of imagined what an incredible man I would be blessed with many, MANY years later. (I married later in life and was an Old Maid according to typical LDS cultural standards.)

I am grateful that Steve is openly loving and smoochy with me.

I am grateful that he tries to make sure that I know he thinks I'm attractive.

I am grateful that Steve wants the best for our financial future. I love that he thinks about preparing for our future - now, and that he is so focused on it.

I am grateful, I adore, and I appreciate, that Steve works SO hard for us so that I can stay home with our son.

I feel bad, but appreciate, that Steve tells me it's "okay" when I fail at goals I've set. He reminds me that no one is perfect and that I can try again.

I am grateful that he supports me in my creative endeavors and other pursuits.

I am grateful that he challenges me to do better financially. (and I try - oh how I try! But I get easily distracted!)

I am grateful that he thinks I'm a good cook, and that he acknowledges that he forgets what a "good thing he has" in me as a wife that prepares and cooks meals for him.

I am grateful that when he see's I'm having a trying day, he'll send me off to have some "alone" time and he'll take care of our son.

I am grateful that he helps around the house. He does it more than I feel like he should, but he reminds me that we are a team and that we can make anything work if we work together to accomplish it.

I am grateful that he is always willing to serve others.

I am grateful that he is such an incredible father to our son, and that he is teaching Freddy how to love and respect women.

I am SO grateful for Steve!

Are you participating in any type of Gratitude challenge this month? I'd LOVE to read your posts too!

Thank you to Kerri Bradford of Kerri Bradford Studio for permission to use her "The Dailies" and "This + That: Gratitude" kits in my button and graphic design for this series!

30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude: Day 1

This month, I am working on focusing on the many things I have to be grateful for. I'm calling it "30 Days to an Attitude of Gratitude." I know I have much to be grateful for, much of which I overlook. It is my hope that I can remember these things, and focus on the many positives I have in my life!

Today, I am grateful for my son, Freddy. Really, I am.

On days like today, where for a brief moment I would have gladly given him away to any stranger (Today was a doozy of a challenging day.), I am grateful that I have him in my life.

I am grateful for the sweet moments, for his tender hugs and nightly rituals (and how they seem to grow longer each night - hug, kiss, noses x 3, chin, forehead, cheek, cheek, ear, ear, and now eye, eye!).

I am grateful for the "want Baby Freddy's" moments when he wants to be snuggled like a baby.

I love it when he busts out into song... with a toy microphone (and without too), how he talks about his best friend, how he thinks he's convincing me to do something, or trying to convince me that something is not stinking in his diaper.

I love how he thinks he's waking me up with a kiss on the cheek and a "time to get up Mommy!"(no, it couldn't possibly be the knocking on my bedroom door.... no way!).

I love it when he talks about his days at preschool and the things they're learning. (it's especially fun when he thinks he's teaching me these things too. Who knew a cookie was a circle?? Or that the letter B sounds like buh. Amazing!!)

I love it when he is so proud of himself when he puts something into the garbage can for me, or when he puts the wipes away, or when he puts his dishes into the sink, or when he tries to wipe the kitchen counters. He is so pleased with himself!

I love it when we are driving home from church and he tells me what they learned in the nursery. He loves to share which of his friends were there, and what Sister Skinner taught them. He loves to tell us how he runs and runs, and then sings and sings.

I love how pleased he is when he see's his art projects hung on the fridge, window, or on the art wall. He gets so tickled to see something that he created displayed. I LOVE that!! I can't wait to have bits and pieces of my son's (or childrens) artwork all over our home!

I love his memory! This kid can remember the tiniest comment you made 3 weeks ago about a treat, trip, or other fun thing. Just the other day he asked me for something, that I had purchased and immediately hidden from him in a cabinet we don't use, 4 weeks ago. He remember exactly what I had gotten (and no substitute would suffice), and where we had gotten it.

I adore the little conversations we have, the words he's recognizing and using (though, not always correctly!), and the inflection he gives in his comments. His honesty humbles me.

I'll never forget wondering if the Lord would give me the opportunity to have a child with my husband, Steve. For a very, very long time it didn't look like it would happen. Fortunately, we are blessed that it did. Our lives will never be the same.

We would love to have many more children, but if we are only able to have one, I'll be forever eternally grateful that we are blessed to have Fred.

Are you participating in any type of Gratitude challenge this month? I'd LOVE to read your posts too!

Thank you to Kerri Bradford of Kerri Bradford Studio for permission to use her "The Dailies" and "This + That: Gratitude" kits in my button and graphic design for this series!

Teaching: Shine Banner Class

Next Saturday, I have the privilege of traveling up to Oklahoma City to teach at the Paper Crown. I so very much enjoy my time up there! Cindy has such a delightful store, and her customers are amazing. The level of creativity and artistry demonstrated in the stores decor and classes inspires me to no end.

I'll be teaching a basic, introductory soldering class Saturday morning and a new, intermediate, class that afternoon - a soldered banner! Here's a photo and the class description:

Do you ever have those moments when your family is driving you bonkers? When your "friends" feel like your biggest foe? When you're at the park, and someone is trying to small talk your child? It's in those very moments that I need a reminder to shine. Shine through the adversity and challenges and meet them head on! So with that in mind, I designed and created this sweet banner to display and remind me to meet those challenges head on.

In this quick paced class you'll create a create a large 5 lettered soldered bunting banner, using a 5 letter word that is special to you. The glass we'll be using has been custom hand cut and finished especially for this class. Additional glass will be available for purchase if you would like to create a longer word. This class is geared towards participants who have previous soldering experience and know how to wrap, solder, and attach jump rings.

In addition to a soldering station (tile, iron, stand, solder, flux & brush, clothespins/clamps, sponge, burnisher, hemostat & glass cleaner), students will need to bring the following supplies with them: hand towel, paper cutter, scissors, pencil, glitter glue, flat nosed jewelry pliers. Feel free to bring any small jewelry bits and baubles also to customize your banner! Please come prepared with what word you would like to use, as we'll be cutting them during class. (Basic soldering kits can be purchased here from Robin on etsy. You'll definitely want to add a pair of bent nosed hemostats to help with jump rings if you don't have one already)

If you'd like to join us, give Cindy a call at (405) 848-2389! It's going to be a day of fun!

What Is Real Right Now

Recently, Ali Edwards did a post titled What Is Real Right Now. I really love how she documented the bits and pieces of her life - and kept it totally real. I think I want to add it as an occasional topic for me too. It would really be a great way of keeping things documented.

So, here's my first What Is Real Right Now post....

What is Real Right Now: After church today, I put Fred down for a short "quiet time", and laid myself down on the couch for a super quick nap. Two and a half hours later I woke up. So much for a short nap! Fortunately, Fred still hasn't mastered opening his bedroom door (it's the pulling of the door that has him stumped), and he was fast asleep. I felt guilty, but got over it quick. When I texted my mom to tell her about it, she said... "Welcome to being fallible. I'm sure he survived." You know what, we all did!

What is Real Right Now: I have zero motivation or energy. It's so odd for me. Normally, if I was to rate my energy on a scale of 1-10, I'd say that I'm usually an 8 or even a 9. Lately, I feel like I'm on a 4, maybe even a 3. My house isn't getting tidy (I'm real, it's probably never ever going to be perfectly clean), and I am not feeling motivated or energized enough to even accomplish my normal tasks. I don't feel motivated to do things that normally I lvoe to I've never felt this way before, even when my iron and vitamin levels were at their lowest. Have you ever been there?

What is Real Right Now: Fred is adorable. Not that I'm partial or anything!! I am SO glad that we were able to have him. Don't get me wrong, he challenges me on a daily basis (really... flat out challenges me....), but we work through it and end our days on high notes. He loves to "read" his books, paint pictures, and sing. Oh my... how my heart soars when he sings. Right now, his favorite songs are "I am a Child of God" and "Hakuna Matata!" (Believe it or not, we actually bought a VCR a few weeks back. I know... I hang my head in both shame and surprise! I have dozens of original Disney cartoons on VHS though, and we are definitely enjoying them!) He's a whopping 39" tall, which makes him just over a foot shorter than me. That is NOT fair. My two year old isn't supposed to be taller than me before he hits puberty, let alone kindergarten!

What is Real Right Now: Steve rocks. He works SO hard for us, and still manages to find time to play with Fred every day. I mean... fully interactive play. He is not a passive father and interacts with Fred in the funnest ways. They both put together a mean Duplo rocket... or car garage... or space shuttle... the list could go on and on. The cutest thing they've been doing lately, is right before we go to put Fred to bed for the night, Steve takes him out to our back yard and they lay on a blanket looking at the stars (and plane lights as they fly overhead). It really just tickles my heart to see their relationship and how incredible Steve is with our son.

What is Real Right Now: We are at the tail end of renovating our half bathroom, on the downstairs level of the house. I will be SO excited when it's done. Not because the wall paper will be gone, but because it is SO hard to bust upstairs when I need to relieve myself when I've got a shadow in tow. I'm more afraid of him falling on the stairs, or getting into something he shouldn't when I'm taking care of business. So... we normally make the trek together - sometimes making it JUST in time.

What is Real Right Now: My fall garden is growing like crazy! Nothing has grown to a harvest stage yet, but if growth is any indicator, my fall garden will definitely be better than my summer one. Anyone else in the same boat?

Cooking : Alannah's Chocolate Galaxy

Ingredients
6 (1 ounce) squares unsweetened chocolate, chopped
6 tablespoons hot brewed coffee
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups butter, room temperature
2 cups white sugar
2 cups packed brown sugar
6 egg yolks
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar for dusting
1 cup sweetened whipped cream
6 egg whites

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 10 inch springform pan.
Place the chocolate in a metal bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Stir in the hot coffee - hotter coffee will mix in better, but if the mixture suddenly hardens into a dull paste, that is okay too. It can still be used. Stir in the vanilla. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks gradually, then stir in the chocolate mixture. Mix in the flour just until incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whip egg whites with clean beaters until they can hold a stiff peak. Fold 1/3 of the whites into the cake batter until fully incorporated, then gently fold in the rest. Pour into the prepared pan. Adjust the oven rack to the center position.
Bake for 1 hour in the preheated oven, or until the top of the cake springs back when pressed down gently. Cool in the pan over a wire rack. Cover the top with aluminum foil to keep the top crust of the cake from getting hardened. When cool, store in the pan until ready to serve.
To serve, run a knife around the outside of the cake, and remove the springform ring. Invert the cake onto a serving plate, and dust with confectioners' sugar. Slice and serve with dollops of whipped cream.

Cooking : Black-Eyed Peas Salad

Ingredients
2 cups cubed, cooked chicken
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
1 (15.5 ounce) can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can white or yellow corn, drained
1 (8 ounce) can sliced water chestnuts, drained
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sliced celery
1 cup cooked wild rice
3/4 cup chopped cucumber
1/2 cup fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions
Place the chicken in a large bowl; sprinkle with seasoned salt. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

Cooking : Bing Cherry Congealed Salad

Ingredients
1 (16.5 ounce) can pitted Bing cherries, drained, juice reserved
1 (15 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained with juice reserved
1 (6 ounce) package cherry gelatin
1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese
6 fluid ounces cola-flavored carbonated beverage
1 cup chopped pecans

Directions
In a sauce pan, combine reserved cherry juice and pineapple juice to equal 1 cup. Bring to boil, add gelatin and whisk together. Remove from heat and add cream cheese and blend together until smooth.
Add cola and beat until mixture becomes fluffy. Fold in cherries, pineapple, and nuts. Pour into molded container, chill 6 to 8 hours or until firm.

Cooking : Banana Pudding Sugar Cookies

Ingredients
2/3 cup shortening
2/3 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (3.5 ounce) package instant banana pudding mix
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Directions
In a medium bowl, cream together shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, and instant banana pudding mix. Mix in 2 cups flour. Gradually mix in remaining 1/2 cup flour as needed to form a workable dough. Cover, and chill in the refrigerator at least 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease baking sheets. Shape dough into walnut sized balls, and place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten balls to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until lightly browned.

Cooking : Apple Cheddar Cheese Pie

Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled
1/2 pound shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup ice water
1/4 cup white vinegar
7 large Granny Smith apples - peeled, cored and sliced
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cubed
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon white sugar

Directions
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cheese. Combine water and vinegar, and gradually stir in until mixture forms a ball. Divide dough in half and shape into balls. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C.) Roll one ball out to fit a 9 inch pie plate. Place bottom crust in pie plate. Roll out top crust and set aside.
In a large bowl, toss apples in lemon juice to prevent discoloration. Drain and discard any excess juice. Stir in sugar and cinnamon. Arrange rows of overlapping apple slices, working from outer rim in. Dot with butter. Cover with top pie crust. Seal and crimp edges with fork, then trim excess dough. Cut a few slashes in top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake on cookie sheet in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and continue baking for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven, brush lightly with beaten egg, and sprinkle liberally with sugar. Bake 5 to 10 minutes more until sugar forms a crisp glaze.

Cooking : Buttermilk Noodle Bake

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
Dash pepper
2 cups buttermilk
1 (4 ounce) can mushroom stems and pieces, undrained
1/3 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
8 ounces egg noodles, cooked and drained

Directions
In a skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. In a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour, salt and pepper until smooth. Gradually add buttermilk. Stir in mushrooms, ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add noodles and beef mixture; mix well. Transfer to a greased 2-1/2-qt. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes or until heated through.

Cooking : Broccoli Cheese Layer Bake

Ingredients
2 (16 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli
2 (11 ounce) cans condensed cream of Cheddar cheese soup
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups seasoned croutons

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Cook broccoli in boiling salted water until tender.
Mix cheese and chicken soups in a large bowl. Add 2 cups of croutons; blend together well. Drain broccoli.
In a 15x10x2 inch baking pan, place half the cooked broccoli in a layer. Spoon half the soup mixture over the broccoli. Finish with a second layer of broccoli and top vegetable with remaining soup mix. Cover with aluminum foil.
Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbling.

Cooking : Brazilian Whole Banana Pie

Ingredients
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 cup water
10 bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise
2 cups whole wheat flour
2 cups toasted wheat germ
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup light margarine
1 tablespoon cinnamon

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of brown sugar over the bottom of a small saucepan or skillet. Cook over medium heat until melted. Stir in water until sugar is completely dissolved. Heat to between 234 and 240 degrees F (112 to 116 degrees C), or until a small amount of syrup dropped into cold water forms a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water and placed on a flat surface. Pour the syrup into a round baking dish or deep dish pie plate and spread to coat the bottom.
Make a layer of bananas on top of the melted sugar. In a medium bowl, stir together the whole wheat flour, wheat germ, oats and 1 cup of brown sugar. Mix in the margarine using your hands, pinching it into small pieces to make a crumbly dough. Sprinkle half of this over the bananas in the dish and pat down. Top with the remaining bananas and sprinkle with about half of the cinnamon. Spread the rest of the dough over the bananas and pat the pie smooth. Sprinkle remaining cinnamon over the top.
Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, until the pie topping is toasted and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooking : Black Pepper Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 small head cabbage, shredded
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat, and add oil. Saute garlic for about 5 seconds, then add ground beef. Stir-fry until beef is evenly brown. Stir in cabbage and pepper, and cook until vegetables are tender, and beef is fully cooked. Stir in soy sauce. Mix together cornstarch and water, and stir in. Season with pepper. Cook, stirring, until sauce has thickened.

Cooking : Beverage Cubes

Ingredients
2 cups brewed black tea, cold

Directions
Pour the cold tea into an ice cube tray and freeze. Pop out a few whenever you're ready for a tall cool drink.

Cooking : All-Bran Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Ingredients
1 1/4 cups Kellogg's* All-Bran* Original cereal
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips

Directions
In medium bowl, mix together cereal, flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
In large mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, egg, oil. Whisk in water and vanilla. Stir in cereal mixture until combined. Stir in mini chocolate chips.
Spread batter evenly in 33 x 23 cm (13 x 9-inch) baking pan coated with non-stick cooking spray.
Bake at 180 degrees C (350 degrees F) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely, cut into bars. Store in airtight container.

Cooking : Apricot Apple Compote

Ingredients
10 dried apricots, sliced
1/2 cup water
4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
In a bowl, soak apricots in water for 30 minutes. Drain, reserving 3 tablespoons water. In a saucepan, combine the apricots, apples, sugar and reserved water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until apples are tender. Remove from the heat. Stir in lemon juice, peel and cinnamon. Serve warm or cold.

Cooking : Best Bruschetta Ever

Ingredients
2 tomatoes, cubed
1 teaspoon dried basil
4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, crushed
seasoning salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste

Directions
In a medium bowl, mix tomatoes, dried basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, seasoning salt and ground black pepper. Cover and chill in the refrigerator 8 hours, or overnight, before serving.

Cooking : Apricot Chicken Curry

Ingredients
8 chicken drumsticks
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
4 cups apricot nectar
1 teaspoon cornstarch, or as needed
1 tablespoon water
3 tablespoons Madras curry powder
1 cup dried apricots
1 large onion, roughly chopped
1 large green bell pepper, roughly chopped
4 carrots, thinly sliced
1 fresh green chile pepper, minced (optional)
1/2 cup chopped water chestnuts (optional)

Directions
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook and stir until garlic is softened and is fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Place the drumsticks in the skillet, and brown the chicken on all sides, about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer the skillet to the oven.
Bake the chicken drumsticks in the preheated oven until no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear, 7 to 10 minutes.
Bring the apricot nectar to a boil in a large pot over medium-high eat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Mix cornstarch and water together in a small bowl; stir cornstarch mixture and curry powder into the apricot nectar. Add dried apricots. Transfer the baked drumsticks into the apricot mixture.
Heat the skillet used to cook the chicken over medium heat. Stir in the onion, green bell pepper, carrots, and green chile pepper; cook and stir until the onion has softened. Pour the drumsticks and apricot sauce into the skillet. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in water chestnuts just before serving.

Cooking : Apple-Feta Tossed Salad

Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup walnut halves
1 tablespoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon pepper
5 cups torn romaine
5 cups torn red leaf lettuce
1 medium red apple, chopped
1 green apple, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
6 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the walnuts; sprinkle with sugar and pepper. Stir until well coated. Spread onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring every 5 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
In a large bowl, combine romaine, red lettuce, apples and feta cheese; set aside. In a blender, combine the dressing ingredients; cover and process until blended. Drizzle over salad; toss to coat. Sprinkle with sugared walnuts.

Cooking : Absolutely Ultimate Marinade

Ingredients
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 bunch green onions, chopped
8 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tahini
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions
Place the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir for 5 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
In a medium bowl, mix toasted sesame seeds, green onions, garlic, tahini, soy sauce, white sugar, red wine vinegar, and pepper. Place desired meat in the mixture, cover, and marinate as long as you like, but overnight is best. Grill as desired.

Cooking : Broccoli Polonaise

Ingredients
1 pound broccoli, cut into florets
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 hard-boiled egg, finely chopped

Directions
Place a steamer insert into a saucepan, and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Cover, and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the broccoli, cover, and steam until just tender, 2 to 6 minutes depending on thickness. Drain broccoli and place into a serving dish.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter; stir in bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, and cook until the crumbs are golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Sprinkle the browned crumbs onto the steamed broccoli, and toss gently. Sprinkle the broccoli with chopped egg.

Cooking : #1 Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter
1 1/3 cups light brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin
1/2 cup apple butter
1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions
Preheat an oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease 2 baking sheets.
Stir the flour, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, ginger, and salt in a bowl.
Beat the butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer in a large bowl until smooth. Add 1 egg and allow it to blend into the mixture before adding the other along with the vanilla. Add the pumpkin and apple butter; continue beating. Mix in the flour mixture until just incorporated. Fold in the walnuts, mixing just enough to evenly combine. Drop spoonfuls of the dough 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are golden, about 12 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking : Black Hills Golden Egg Bake

Ingredients
1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 (16 ounce) container small curd cottage cheese
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 pound bulk pork sausage, cooked and drained
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced ripe olives, drained

Directions
In a skillet, saute mushrooms and green pepper in butter until tender. In a mixing bowl, combine eggs, flour, baking powder and salt if desired; mix well. Add mushroom mixture. Stir in remaining ingredients; mix well.
Pour into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F; bake 25-35 minutes longer or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Cooking : BREAKSTONE'S Sensational Creamy Strawberry Shortcake

Ingredients
1 1/4 cups milk, divided
1/4 cup BREAKSTONE'S Reduced Fat Sour Cream
3 tablespoons sugar
2 1/4 cups all-purpose baking mix for biscuits
1 pkg. (4 serving size) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding
1 (8 ounce) tub COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed, divided
4 cups sliced strawberries
1/3 cup sugar

Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Beat 1/2 cup of the milk, the sour cream and 3 Tbsp. sugar in large bowl with wire whisk until well blended. Stir in baking mix until just moistened. Spread evenly into greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until top is golden brown. Remove from pan to wire rack; cool completely.
Add remaining 3/4 cup milk to dry pudding mix in medium bowl. Beat with wire whisk 2 minutes or until well blended. Gently stir in half of the whipped topping. Toss strawberries with 1/3 cup sugar; set aside. Cut cake horizontally in half to make two layers.
Place bottom cake layer on serving plate; top with half of the strawberry mixture. Spread with pudding mixture; cover with top cake layer. Spread with remaining whipped topping; top with remaining strawberry mixture. Serve immediately. Store any leftover shortcake in refrigerator.

Cooking : Broccoli Bake

Ingredients
2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (2.8 ounce) can French-fried onions

Directions
Cook broccoli according to package directions; drain and set aside. In a skillet or saucepan, saute onion in butter until tender. Stir in soup, mustard and salt; heat until bubbly. In a 1-1/2-qt. casserole, arrange half of broccoli; top with half of the eggs, half of the cheese and half of the mushroom sauce. Repeat layers. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes. Sprinkle onions on top and bake 5 minutes more.

Cooking : Beef and Veggie Stew with Dumplings

Ingredients
2 pounds cubed beef stew meat
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup margarine
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
1 (14 ounce) can whole kernel corn, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can peas, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can green beans, drained
1 (13.5 ounce) can spinach, undrained
4 cubes beef bouillon
4 cups water
1 pinch garlic powder, or to taste
1 pinch garlic and herb seasoning blend (such as Mrs. Dash�), or to taste
1 (16.3 ounce) can refrigerated biscuits (such as Pillsbury Grands�)

Directions
Season the beef with salt and black pepper; heat the margarine in a skillet over low heat, and cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and tender, about 45 minutes.
While the beef is cooking, place the tomato soup, corn, peas, beans, spinach, beef bouillon cubes, water, garlic powder, and garlic herb seasoning in a large, heavy saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to a simmer, then add the stew beef. Simmer to blend the flavors, about 30 minutes.
Cut each biscuit into quarters, flatten slightly, and gently stir the dumplings into the stew. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, then cover the stew and simmer 10 more minutes.

Cooking : Baked Tilapia with Arugula and Pecan Pesto

Ingredients
3 cups young arugula leaves, rinsed and dried
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 dash fresh lemon juice
sea salt to taste
1/2 cup young arugula leaves, rinsed and dried
4 (8 ounce) fillets tilapia
1 tablespoon grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Combine 3 cups arugula, garlic, pecans, olive oil, 1/4 CUP Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, black pepper, and lemon juice in a blender and blend until it reaches the consistency of a pesto sauce.
Spread 1/2 cup arugula on the prepared baking pan. Place the tilapia fillets on the arugula. Spread the remaining pesto generously on top of fillets. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on the pesto.
Bake in preheated oven until fish flakes easily, about 20 minutes.

Cooking : All Purpose Lime Marinade

Ingredients
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger root
1/4 teaspoon ancho chile powder

Directions
To make the marinade, whisk together the lime juice, teriyaki sauce, green onions, ginger, and ancho powder.
To use, marinate your chosen meat for 2 to 4 hours. Grill over hardwood charcoal.

Cooking : Black Tea Lemonade

Ingredients
5 cups water
1/2 cup white sugar
3 orange pekoe tea bags
1 (12 ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate
5 cups water

Directions
Bring 5 cups of water and the sugar to a boil in a saucepan, then remove from the heat and add the tea bags. Allow tea to steep while you mix the lemonade concentrate and remaining water in a large pitcher. Pour the tea mixture into the lemonade, discarding tea bags. Stir and refrigerate until cold before serving.

Cooking : Apple Cake and Butter Sauce

Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
1/4 cup butter
2 large apples
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup butter
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions
Peel, core, and grate the apples.
Cream together 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup butter or margarine. Stir in the grated apples and eggs. Sift together flour, salt, soda, nutmeg, and cinnamon; mix into the apple mixture. Pour batter into an ungreased 9 inch glass pie plate.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 50 minutes. Remove from oven.
Place 1/2 cup butter or margarine, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup cream, and vanilla in the top pan of a double boiler. Heat and stir until sugar has dissolved and butter or margarine has melted. Serve over apple cake.

Cooking : Apple Sausage Appetizers

Ingredients
2 (20 ounce) jars unsweetened chunky applesauce
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 pounds fully cooked kielbasa or Polish sausage, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped

Directions
In a bowl, combine applesauce and brown sugar. Stir in sausage and onion. Transfer to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 40-50 minutes or until bubbly.

Cooking : Best Ever Chicken Casserole

Ingredients
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 (8 ounce) can water chestnuts
1 onion, chopped
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup cornflakes cereal crumbs
1 cup mayonnaise

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large pot, boil the chicken until tender. Cut the breasts into cubes or small pieces.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the water chestnuts, onion, soup, most of the crushed corn flakes and mayonnaise. Mix well.
Pour mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the rest of the crushed corn flakes on top of the mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.

Cooking : Black Bean And Corn Salad II

Ingredients
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups frozen corn kernels
1 avocado - peeled, pitted and diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
6 green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Directions
Place lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper in a small jar. Cover with lid, and shake until ingredients are well mixed.
In a salad bowl, combine beans, corn, avocado, bell pepper, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. Shake lime dressing, and pour it over the salad. Stir salad to coat vegetables and beans with dressing, and serve.

Cooking : Ambrosia Cookies

Ingredients
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup flaked coconut

Directions
Sift flour, baking powder, soda and salt. In a separate bowl cream butter until fluffy; add sugars, eggs and vanilla. Beat well.
Add flour mixture to butter mixture. Mix well. Stir in oats, nuts, and coconut. Mix until well blended.
Bake on ungreased cookie sheets for 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).

Cooking : Avocado and Sun-Dried Tomato Spring Rolls

Ingredients
1 quart oil for frying
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/3 cup shredded cabbage
1/4 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup shredded cucumber
2 tablespoons diced onion
1/4 cup diced green onion
2 tablespoons finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
2 ounces boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and diced
1 ounce cooked crabmeat, diced
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 avocado - peeled, pitted and diced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
8 spring roll wrappers

Directions
Heat 1 quart oil in a wok over medium high heat.
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in cabbage, carrots, cucumber, onion, green onion, shiitake mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, salt and pepper. Slowly cook and stir until all vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
Stir chicken, crabmeat and Chinese five-spice powder into the cabbage mixture. Sprinkle avocado with lemon juice, then stir it into the mixture. Remove from heat.
Place approximately 1 teaspoon of the cabbage and chicken mixture in the center of spring roll wrappers. Fold wrappers, and seal the edges with moistened fingers.
Carefully lower spring rolls into the heated quart of oil. Deep fry approximately 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Cut in half to serve.

Cooking : Amber's Sesame Chicken

Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds, divided
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
5 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into chunks
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 yellow onion, cut into wedges
1/2 cup green bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons honey

Directions
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine flour, 1/4 cup sesame seeds, black pepper, five-spice powder, and red pepper flakes. Place a few pieces of chicken at a time into the bag, and shake to coat. Remove to a platter.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Place chicken into skillet, and brown on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove chicken, and set aside. Stir onion wedges and bell pepper slices into skillet; cook until slightly browned, about 2 minutes. Remove, and set aside.
Return chicken to skillet, and reduce heat to low. Mix in teriyaki marinade, 1/4 cup sesame seeds, and honey; stir until sauce thickens. Return onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Warm through, and serve.

Cooking : Almond Pie Bars

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 cup cold butter (no substitutes)
2 cups sugar
1 cup chopped almonds
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup butter (no substitutes), melted
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Directions
For the crust, combine flour and confectioners' sugar. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes or until lightly browned. In a bowl, combine sugar, almonds and flour; stir in the remaining filling ingredients. Pour over crust. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars. Store into refrigerator.

Cooking : Almond Pie Bars

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 cup cold butter (no substitutes)
2 cups sugar
1 cup chopped almonds
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup butter (no substitutes), melted
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Directions
For the crust, combine flour and confectioners' sugar. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes or until lightly browned. In a bowl, combine sugar, almonds and flour; stir in the remaining filling ingredients. Pour over crust. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars. Store into refrigerator.

Cooking : Big Al's Chicken

Ingredients
1 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup egg substitute
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
10 skinless chicken thighs

Directions
In a jar with a lid, combine the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, egg substitute, garlic powder, paprika, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Close the lid, and shake to blend. Place chicken in a shallow glass baking dish. Pour about 3/4 of the marinade over it, and reserve the rest for basting. Cover chicken, and refrigerate 8 hours, or overnight.
Preheat grill for high heat.
Lightly oil the grill grate. Place chicken on the grill, and discard marinade from the dish. Cook the chicken for 10 minutes on each side, or until juices run clear. Brush reserved sauce onto chicken just before serving.

Cooking : Barbecue Chicken Snackers

Ingredients
1 (8.8 ounce) package King's Hawaiian� Snacker Rolls
Butter or margarine, as needed
4 green leaf lettuce leaves
4 slices Jack cheese, cut into triangles
1 (10 ounce) package cooked grilled chicken breast strips
1/3 cup prepared barbecue sauce

Directions
Spread butter or margarine on cut side of rolls, place in non-stick skillet cut side down and toast. Remove from skillet and place two triangles of cheese on each roll base. Place lettuce leaves on cheese.
In same skillet, cook grilled chicken breast until warm. Add barbecue sauce and toss to coat. Arrange 3 to 4 chicken strips on lettuce and place on roll top.

Cooking : Beef Stroganoff I

Ingredients
1/4 cup butter
1 1/2 pounds sirloin tip, cut into thin slices
1 onion, chopped
1 (16 ounce) container sour cream

Directions
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add beef and the onions; cook until the meat is browned and the onion tender.
Stir in sour cream, and heat through. Do not boil.

Cooking : Banana Pancake Muffins

Ingredients
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup brown sugar
1 banana, diced
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups soy milk

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease 12 muffin cups or line with paper muffin liners.
In a large bowl, cream together shortening and sugar. Beat in egg. Blend until banana is completely mixed in, then add flour, baking powder and baking soda. Mix batter with spoon. Stir in soy milk, then spoon into muffin pan. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of muffin comes out clean.

Cooking : Appetizing Bread

Ingredients
1 (1 pound) loaf unsliced white bread
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup grated Romano cheese
6 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons dried red chile peppers

Directions
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
Place the unsliced white bread loaf in a large oven safe serving dish. Cutting only about half way down the loaf, make 8 slices. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, garlic, parsley, and 1/2 the extra virgin olive oil over loaf. Spread dried red chile peppers around base of bread.
Bake in the preheated oven approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted but not browned. Remove from oven and cover with remaining olive oil. Serve at once!

Cooking : Banana Cream Frosting

Ingredients
1 (3.5 ounce) package instant banana pudding mix
1 very ripe banana, mashed
2 tablespoons rum
1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Directions
In a medium bowl or food processor, mix pudding, banana, milk and rum until very thick. Gently fold in whipped topping. Spread over any size cake.

Cooking : Broccoli Pork Stir-Fry

Ingredients
1 (3 ounce) package pork ramen noodles
1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2/3 cup cold water
1 1/2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon white vinegar
4 teaspoons canola oil
1/2 pound pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
6 large fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 cup fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup julienned sweet red pepper
3 green onions, sliced (white parts only)

Directions
Set aside 1 teaspoon of seasoning from seasoning packet (discard remaining seasoning or save for another use). Break noodles into small pieces and place in a microwave-safe dish; add warm water. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, pepper flakes and reserved seasoning. Stir in the cold water, soy sauce and vinegar until smooth; set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat oil; stir-fry pork and mushrooms for 5 minutes. Add broccoli and red pepper. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender and pork is no longer pink. Stir cornstarch mixture and stir into skillet. Add noodles and onions. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Cooking : Baked Stuffed Winter Squash

Ingredients
3 acorn squash, halved and seeded
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 pound sweet Italian sausage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place squash halves cut side down in baking pans. Fill pans with about 1/2 inch water. Bake squash 40 minutes in the preheated oven, or until tender.
While squash bakes, heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place onions and celery in the skillet, and cook until tender. Stir in the sausage and thyme. Cook and stir until evenly brown.
Remove squash from the oven, and carefully scrape the pulp from the rinds. Set rinds aside. Place the pulp in a bowl, and mash with a potato masher. Mix in the cooked sausage mixture, egg, bread crumbs, raisins, and pecans. Scoop into the reserved rinds. Set stuffed squash in the baking dishes.
Bake 25 minutes in the 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) oven, until heated through.

Cooking : Apple Butterscotch Bars

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup white sugar
2/3 cup brown sugar
1 cup butter, softened
2/3 cup apple jelly
1/4 cup chopped cashews
1 (11 ounce) package butterscotch chips

Directions
Preheat an oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease the bottom of a 9 inch square baking dish.
Mix the flour, oats, white sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until the mixture is crumbly. Set aside 3/4 cup of the mixture and press the rest into the bottom of the prepared dish. Spread the top with the apple jelly.
Stir the reserved flour mixture and the cashews together in a bowl; sprinkle over the apple jelly. Scatter the butterscotch chips over the cashew mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown; 30 to 35 minutes. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Cooking : Beef-Stuffed Potatoes

Ingredients
6 medium baking potatoes
1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons chopped onion
1/3 cup sour cream
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
3/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions
Bake potatoes at 375 degrees F for 1 hour or until tender. Cool. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink; drain. Cut a thin slice off the top of each potato. Carefully scoop out pulp, leaving a thin shell; place pulp in a bowl. Add sour cream, chilies, butter, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder and chili powder; mash or beat. Stir in meat mixture until combined. Stuff into potato shells.
Place on an ungreased baking sheet. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Cooking : Baked Omelet Pie

Ingredients
1 large baking potato
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped ham
1 tomato, sliced
1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions
Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add potato and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain, cool, peel and slice.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Beat together eggs, salt, pepper and parsley.
In a cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Saute onion and red pepper until soft, then stir in mushrooms. When mushrooms start to shrink, add the chopped ham, potato and tomato slices. Pour in the egg mixture; gently stir to combine.
Sprinkle cheese on top of eggs and place skillet in preheated oven. Bake until eggs are firm, about 10 to 15 minutes. Allow to cool briefly before serving.

Cooking : Apricot Chicken Curry

Ingredients
8 chicken drumsticks
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
4 cups apricot nectar
1 teaspoon cornstarch, or as needed
1 tablespoon water
3 tablespoons Madras curry powder
1 cup dried apricots
1 large onion, roughly chopped
1 large green bell pepper, roughly chopped
4 carrots, thinly sliced
1 fresh green chile pepper, minced (optional)
1/2 cup chopped water chestnuts (optional)

Directions
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook and stir until garlic is softened and is fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Place the drumsticks in the skillet, and brown the chicken on all sides, about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer the skillet to the oven.
Bake the chicken drumsticks in the preheated oven until no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear, 7 to 10 minutes.
Bring the apricot nectar to a boil in a large pot over medium-high eat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Mix cornstarch and water together in a small bowl; stir cornstarch mixture and curry powder into the apricot nectar. Add dried apricots. Transfer the baked drumsticks into the apricot mixture.
Heat the skillet used to cook the chicken over medium heat. Stir in the onion, green bell pepper, carrots, and green chile pepper; cook and stir until the onion has softened. Pour the drumsticks and apricot sauce into the skillet. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in water chestnuts just before serving.

Cooking : Brunch Omelet Torte

Ingredients
1 (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
1/4 cup butter
6 red potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick
1 onion, thinly sliced into rings
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 pinch salt
1 pinch black pepper
2 tablespoons water
8 ounces cooked ham, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon water

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). On lightly floured surface, roll each sheet of puff pastry into a 12 inch square. Lay 1 sheet puff pastry into a 10 inch pie plate; set aside.
In a 10 inch skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter until sizzling. Add potatoes, onion, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cover and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until potatoes are lightly browned and crisply tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. Set aside.
In a new skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter until sizzling. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together all omelet ingredients except remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Pour half of omelet mixture (3/4 cup) into heated skillet. Cook over medium heat. As omelet mixture sets, lift slightly with spatula to allow uncooked portion to flow underneath. Continue cooking until set, about 2 to 3 minutes. Slide omelet onto cookie sheet. Repeat with remaining butter and omelet mixture.
Layer ingredients into pie plate on top of puff pastry in the following order: one of the omelets, 4 ounces ham, half of fried the potatoes, 1 cup shredded cheese, remaining potatoes, ham, cheese and 2nd omelet. Top with remaining sheet of puff pastry. Press together edges of both sheets of puff pastry to form a rim; trim off excess. Crimp or flute edges. In small bowl, stir together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water; brush over puff pastry.
Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes; cut into wedges.

Cooking : Appetizing Bread

Ingredients
1 (1 pound) loaf unsliced white bread
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup grated Romano cheese
6 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons dried red chile peppers

Directions
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
Place the unsliced white bread loaf in a large oven safe serving dish. Cutting only about half way down the loaf, make 8 slices. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, garlic, parsley, and 1/2 the extra virgin olive oil over loaf. Spread dried red chile peppers around base of bread.
Bake in the preheated oven approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted but not browned. Remove from oven and cover with remaining olive oil. Serve at once!

Cooking : Barbecued Beef Liver

Ingredients
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 pound beef liver, thinly sliced
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 dash garlic powder
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Directions
In a resealable plastic bag, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. Place the liver slices into the bag one at a time, seal, and toss to coat.
In a bowl, mix the water, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the liver slices on both sides. Pour the sauce mixture over the liver. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes, until liver is tender.

Cooking : Asparagus Florentine

Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup butter
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup, undiluted
1/2 cup water
3 egg yolks
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon ground mustard
Dash pepper
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

Directions
Place asparagus in a saucepan with a small amount of water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 3-5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside. In a large saucepan, saute onion and garlic in butter until tender.
In a bowl, whisk together the soup, water, egg yolks, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and pepper. Whisk in lemon juice. Add to onion mixture. Add cream cheese. Cook and stir over low heat until cheese is melted. Stir in spinach and asparagus; heat through.
Transfer to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 325 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or until a thermometer reads 160 degrees F. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking : Baked Tilapia

Ingredients
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 (4 ounce) fillets tilapia
1 large onion, sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons butter

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Coat bottom of a medium baking dish with about 1/4 cup olive oil.
In a small bowl, blend remaining olive oil, tomato paste, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper.
Arrange tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish, skin side up. With a spatula, spread the olive oil and tomato paste mixture over the tilapia, heaping the majority in the centers of the fillets. Arrange onion and green pepper slices on and around the fillets.
Bake in the preheated oven 15 minutes, until fish is easily flaked with a fork. Remove from heat, top each fillet with 1 tablespoon butter, and set oven to broil. Broil 5 to 7 minutes, until butter is melted and lightly brown.

Cooking : Balsamic Cream Sauce

Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 onion, minced
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Heat olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the onion, and cook until it has caramelized to a dark, golden brown, about 15 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, and cook for 1 minute before stirring in the chicken bouillon and cream. Bring to a simmer, then remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.

Cooking : Artichoke Spread

Ingredients
1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, peeled
3/4 teaspoon dried dill weed

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Place the artichoke hearts in a food processor and process until smooth. Process the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, garlic and dill with the artichoke hearts until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Transfer to a 9 inch pie pan.
Bake in the preheated oven 10 to 15 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly brown.

Cooking : Beet Surprise Cake

Ingredients
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 cup beets, boiled and grated
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/4 cups melted butter
4 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons cream
3 ounces cream cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
1 pound confectioners' sugar

Directions
Grease one 9x13 inch pan. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Sprinkle lemon juice over beets, set aside.
Combine flour, 1 teaspoon salt, soda, white sugar, cocoa, melted butter, eggs, honey, milk, and 2 teaspoons vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Stir in beets. Beat 2 minutes at medium speed of mixer. Pour into prepared pan.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) about 40 minutes. Cool and frost.
To make frosting: combine cream and cream cheese, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and pinch of salt. Add confectioners' sugar, beat until fluffy. Spread on cake. Add nuts if desired.

Cooking : Asian Chicken Pasta Salad

Ingredients
8 ounces rotelle pasta
5 boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt, divided
2 carrots, sliced diagonally
1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, quartered
1/2 head broccoli, cut into florets
1/2 head cauliflower, broken into small florets
1/4 cup water
1 bunch green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons sesame oil

Directions
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. Place in large bowl with chicken.
In large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Cook carrots with 1/4 teaspoon salt until tender-crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove carrots, place in bowl with chicken and pasta. Add 2 tablespoons oil to wok and cook mushrooms with 1/4 teaspoon salt until tender, 5 minutes. Remove mushrooms and place in bowl.
Add 2 more tablespoons oil to wok, stir-fry broccoli, cauliflower and onion until coated with oil. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 cup water, cover and cook 5 to 10 minutes, until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove vegetables with slotted spoon and toss with pasta and chicken.
Mix in green onions, soy sauce and sesame oil, adjusting soy and sesame to taste. Serve warm or cold.

Cooking : Avocado Ham Sandwiches

Ingredients
1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and mashed
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 dash cayenne pepper
12 slices whole wheat or sourdough bread
6 slices fully cooked ham
6 slices Swiss cheese
6 tablespoons cream cheese, softened

Directions
In a small bowl, combine the first three ingredients; spread on six slices of bread. Top with ham and Swiss. Spread cream cheese on remaining bread; place over Swiss cheese.

Cooking : Apple Strudel Dessert

Ingredients
2 (8 ounce) packages refrigerated crescent roll dough
1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease a 9 inch round pan.
Using a slotted spoon, place about 1 tablespoon pie filling near the large end of a crescent roll dough triangle. Roll up the triangle. Repeat with remaining dough. Place rolls in prepared pan with points toward the center. Top with remaining pie filling. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Bake in preheated oven 30 minutes, until browned.

Cooking : Brandied Bananas

Ingredients
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup chopped pecans
2 medium bananas, sliced
1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses
1 tablespoon brandy

Directions
In a medium skillet, melt butter over high heat; add pecans and stir 1 minute to lightly toast nuts. Stir in bananas and molasses; cook 1 minute. Add brandy and cook another 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove from heat and serve immediately, or pour into covered container and refrigerate. If refrigerated, when ready to serve; bring topping to room temperature or gently warm over low heat.

Cooking : Apple Yam Casserole

Ingredients
3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 Granny Smith apples - peeled, cored and sliced
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup raisins
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 slices lemon, thinly sliced

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 2 quart casserole dish.
In the casserole dish, alternately layer the sweet potatoes and apples.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix together brown sugar, 1/3 cup water, cinnamon, raisins, butter and salt. Cook 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, stir together remaining water and flour. Combine with the brown sugar mixture. Pour over the sweet potatoes and apples. Place the lemon slices on top.
Bake covered in the preheated oven 20 minutes. Uncover and continue baking 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and apples are tender.

Cooking : Blueberry Bread I

Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup fresh blueberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions
Mix together beaten eggs with the sugar. Add milk and melted shortening or vegetable oil.
Sift together flour, salt, and baking powder. Combine mixtures, stirring only until blended. Carefully fold in fresh or frozen blueberries and broken walnut pieces.
Pour into greased 5 x 12 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 50-60 minutes. Cool in pan but try to turn it out of pan before it is totally cool. It will be easier to remove. Can also be made in a normal size loaf pan or can be made into 2 pans.

Cooking : Butterscotch Cream Pie

Ingredients
2 cups milk
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 egg yolks
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Brush pie crust lightly with egg white to seal. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until light brown and crisp. Remove from oven and reduce temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar and salt; set aside. In the top of a double boiler over medium heat, scald the milk while stirring with a whisk. Slowly whisk in the flour mixture. Cook, stirring constantly until thickened; remove from heat.
Place the egg yolks in a medium bowl. Stir in 1/3 of the milk mixture to temper the yolks, Then pour the yolk mixture back into the pan. Return to the stove and cook, stirring constantly until thick. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla. Pour into baked pie crust.
In a large glass or metal mixing bowl, beat egg whites, cream of tartar and confectioners' sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over pie, covering completely.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until meringue is golden brown in spots.

Follow Up: What's Cooking - 10/1 Edition

Goodness, thank you for your sweet comments about our menu plan for this week. You tickled my heart with your kindness!!

Many of you asked what the different vegetables were in our "Asian Pack". It's easier for me to just label each of the items, rather than try to explain it. So, here you go!

So far, our menu planning is right on target! Sunday's taco's were a HUGE hit! I highly recommend them, especially if you have a super busy day planned!

Plus, a cool new tip I learned... if you need to shred meat (chicken, pork, beef, etc) and you have a stand mixer... toss the meat (after it's been slow cooked) into your bowl with the beater attachment and turn it on. The beater will shred your meat perfectly!

(I'll be honest, I was hesitant to try it and thought that doing it would be lazy. But, Sunday night, I was trying to get the rest of our dinner finished when it was time to shred the chicken. So, I popped it into my mixer bowl and set it to go on low. Shazam... super fast and perfectly shredded chicken! Hoooray!)

There you go - a breakdown of the Bountiful Baskets Asian Pack for this week (don't forget - contents can vary from week to week!)

Thanks for visiting!