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Category: Pork

Pork Chops Slathered in Mustard Butter with Bacon-Braised Napa

Pork Chops Slathered in Mustard Butter with Bacon-Braised Napa

4 T. EVOO

6 slices Bacon, chopped

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1 Spanish Onion, sliced

2 T. Thyme

1 small head Napa Cabbage, cored and sliced

Salt and Pepper

1/4 C. plus a splash Cider Vinegar

1/2 C. Golden Raisins

3/4 C. Chicken Stock

4 Center Cut Pork Chops, 1” thick

4 T. Butter, very soft

2 T. Grainy Mustard

2 T. chopped flat leaf Parsley

 

Heat large skillet over medium high heat with 2 T. EVOO. Add bacon and cook until crisp, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, onion and thyme and cook for one minute. Add cabbage, salt and pepper, toss to combine and then add 1/4 C. of the cider vinegar, the raisins and the chicken stock. Turn down heat to medium and continue to cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. While cabbage cooks, heat another large skillet over medium high heat with the remaining 2 T. EVOO. Liberally season pork with salt and pepper. Add chops and cook for 5 minutes per side. For the mustard butter, in a small bowl combine the soft butter, grainy mustard, chopped parsley and a splash of cider vinegar. Top each chop with a dollop of the mustard butter and serve alongside the cabbage.

 

Hiyashi Chuka (Cold Noodle Salad)

Hiyashi Chuka (Cold Noodle Salad)

1 serving of ramen noodles

1 egg, beaten

a chunk of cucumber

1 slice of cooked ham

1/2 of a medium tomato

a dash of toasted sesame seeds (optional)

For sauce:

2 Tsp. dashi

1 1/2 Tsp. soy sauce

1 Tsp. rice vinegar

1 tsp. sesame oil

1 tsp. sugar

1 drop of rayu (optional)

 

Cook ramen noodles according to instructions on package. Avoid using instant ramen noodles: I have not tried them myself, but I imagine that their texture won’t be chewy enough. When noodles are done, drain them and cool them with cold running water or ice immediately. Set aside. Heat a nonstick pan over medium low heat. Add egg and spread it out into a thin crepe. Finely slice egg, cucumber, ham, and tomato. Arrange noodles and toppings in a (chilled) bowl. Mix all ingredients for sauce together. Pour sauce over noodles and garnish with sesame seeds (if you want) just before serving.

Pork Medallions with Cherries

Pork Medallions with Cherries

1 lb pork tenderloin, sliced into half-inch-thick medallions

1/2 C. finely chopped red onion

16 oz bag frozen dark sweet cherries, defrosted slightly in microwave and drained of juice

1/2 C. reduced-sodium chicken broth

2 Tsp. honey

3 tsp. olive oil

1 Tsp. balsamic vinegar

1 tsp. dried thyme

 

Season medallions with salt and pepper to taste. Heat 2 tsp. olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and cook pork until light pink in the center (2 to 3 minutes per side). Transfer to plate and cover with foil. Add remaining oil to skillet. Add onion and saute until soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in cherries, broth, honey, vinegar, and thyme. Simmer until sauce thickens (5 to 8 minutes). Divide medallions evenly onto four plates and top each dish with 2 T. cherry sauce.

Barbecue Sausage

Barbecue Sausage

2 T. oil

1 green pepper, cut into large chunks

1 onion, cut into large chunks

1 lb. smoked sausage, halved lengthwise and cut into 1″ chunks

1 – 1 1/2 C. barbecue sauce

 

 

For the grill – Make a large packet with tin foil. In a large bowl, toss green pepper, onion and smoked sausage with oil. Place in foil packet. Grill for 10 minutes. Add barbecue sauce and grill an additional 5-10 minutes. For the stovetop – Heat oil in a large skillet and add green pepper, onion and smoked sausage. Cook for 15 minutes, until pepper and onions are tender and sausage is fully cooked. Stir in barbecue sauce and cook until heated through. For the oven – Toss the green pepper, onion and sausage with the oil. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Stir in barbecue sauce and bake another 10 minutes.

 

from: Cooking During Stolen Moments

Pork Medallions with Black Olives

Pork Medallions with Black Olives

1 pound pork tenderloin, trimmed, cut into 8 pieces, and pounded to 1/4″ thickness

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 C. unbleached or all-purpose flour

1 T. olive oil

1/2 C. dry white wine or nonalcoholic wine

1/2 C. reduced-sodium chicken broth

1 T. parsley

2 T. sliced black olives, drained

 

Sprinkle the pork with the pepper and salt. Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge the pork in the flour, turning to coat. Shake off any excess flour. Heat 1 1/2 tsp. of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the pork and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until no longer pink. Remove to a plate and keep warm. Repeat to use the remaining oil and pork. Return the reserved pork to the pan. Add the wine, broth, and parsley and bring to a boil. Stir in the olives and cook for 4 minutes.

Scary Snake Calzone

Scary Snake Calzone

 

2 loaves (16 ounces each) frozen white bread dough, thawed

4 T. mustard, divided

2 T. sun-dried tomato pesto, divided

2 tsp. Italian seasoning, divided

10 ounces thinly sliced ham, divided

10 ounces thinly sliced salami, divided

1 1/2 C. (6 ounces) shredded provolone cheese, divided

1 1/2 C. (6 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

2 egg yolks, divided

2 tsp. water, divided

red and yellow liquid food coloring

pimento stuffed green olives

roasted red peppers, cut into 1 inch strips

toothpicks

 

Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.  Roll out 1 loaf of dough into 24×6 inch rectangle on lightly floured work surface. Spread 2 T. mustard and 1 T. pesto over dough, leaving 1 inch border and sprinkle with 1 tsp. Italian seasoning.  Layer half of ham and salami over dough. Sprinkle 3/4 C. of each cheese over meats. Brush edges of dough with water. Beginning at long side, tightly roll up dough. Pinch edges to seal. Transfer roll to prepared baking sheet, seam side down and shape into an S shape for the snakes body. Repeat with remaining ingredients.  Combine 1 egg yolk, 1 tsp. water and red food coloring in small bowl. Combine remaining egg yolk, remaining tsp. water and yellow food coloring in another small bowl. Paint stripes, dots and zigzags over dough to make snakeskin pattern.  Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Let dough rise, uncovered, in warm place for 30 minutes. After rising, taper one end of each roll to form head and one end to form tail. Score tail end to form rattlers, if desired.  Bake snakes 25 to 30 minutes. Cool slightly. Use olives for eyes, secured with toothpicks, and roasted red pepper strips for tongues.  Slice and serve warm.

Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta

1 pound broccoli rabe, 2″ trimmed from ends, cut into 2″ segments

8 ounces whole wheat fusilli pasta

1 T. olive oil

6 ounces chicken sausage, cut into 1/2″ slices

4 dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced or put through garlic press

 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli rabe and blanch for 2 minutes. Remove from the pot and plunge into a bowl of cold water (save the pot of hot water for the pasta). Drain and set aside. Add the pasta to the boiling water. Stir and cook for 10 minutes, or until al dente. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, turning occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until browned. Add the tomatoes, garlic, and broccoli rabe to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes, or until the sausage is no longer pink. Drain the pasta, reserving 2 T. of the cooking water. Add the pasta and reserved water to the skillet. Toss with the sausage mixture.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 370

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 5g

Cinnamon Rubbed Pork Loin with Roasted Apples and Onions

Cinnamon Rubbed Pork Loin with Roasted Apples and Onions

2 tsp. lemon peel

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. ground ginger

1/8 tsp. ground allspice

1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg

1 Tsp. olive oil

1 center cut pork loin (1 1/2 lb)

2 apples, peeled, cut into wedges

1 apple, unpeeled (garnish), cut into wedges

3 med onions cut into wedges

1/4 C. fresh lemon juice

1/2 C. apple juice

1/4 C. maple syrup

 

Preheat oven to 375ºF. In small bowl, combine lemon peel, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg. In another small bowl, combine oil and half of the spice mixture. Season pork with salt and pepper, if desired, and rub with oil mixture. Set aside. In large bowl, toss apple and onion wedges with lemon juice and remaining spice mixture. Place in large roasting pan with pork and 1/2 C. water. Roast 50 minutes or until thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 160ºF. (Toss apple mixture once during roasting.) Remove pan from oven and let pork sit. Meanwhile, in medium saucepan, bring apple juice and maple syrup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 1 to 2 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. In food processor, puree peeled apples, two thirds of the onions, and pan drippings until smooth. Stir puree into juice mixture, season with salt and pepper, and heat on medium low until warm. Garnish pork with unpeeled apple wedges and remaining onions. Serve with sauce on the side.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 440

Fat: 12g

Fiber: 5g

Sicilian Sausage and Fennel Pasta

Sicilian Sausage and Fennel Pasta

3/4 lb. bulk Sweet Sausage

1 bulb fresh Fennel, tops and outer layer trimmed away

1/2 White Onion

3 cloves Garlic

A Pinch Allspice

Black Pepper

1 C. Chicken Broth

1/3 C. Pernod or Anisette liqueur

1 lb. Penne

3 T. Heavy Cream or Half and Half

Grated Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

 

Break up sausage in deep skillet and brown over medium heat. Cut fennel and onion into chunks and process with garlic in food processor. Add fennel, onion, and garlic to pot. Sprinkle with allspice and pepper. Give the pan a good shake. Add broth. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, until fennel bits are tender. Uncover and bring heat up to medium again. Let broth reduce by half, about five minutes.  Douse with liquer. Bring mixture to a boil. Drain pasta. Add cream to sauce and give pan a shake. Toss immediately with pasta. Serve with grated cheese and more pepper.

Pig Pirozhki

Pig Pirozhki

 

For Dough:

4 C. Flour

1 tsp. sugar

1 tsp. salt

2 tsp. dried yeast

2 eggs (beaten)

3/4 C. warm milk

4 Tbp. softened butter

For Glazing: 1 egg white

For Filling:

1 C. cubed cooked ham (leftover spiral ham works wonderfully)

1 can artichoke hearts

1 Tsp.. garlic (diced)

1 Tsp.. olive oil

Italian herbs to taste (oregano, etc.)

Dash of salt and pepper

1 C. favorite white cheeses (parmesan, asiago, fontina, etc. work well)

 

 

Make the dough: Mix flour, sugar and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the middle, add yeast and warm milk, stir. Add softened butter and eggs. Mix until smooth, let rest for 1 hour in a warm (but not hot) place. On top of an oven set to warm (under 200 degrees) works well. Make the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add garlic and herbs. Stir well, do not let garlic brown/burn. Cook for a minute or two, add diced artichokes (well drained) and ham. Salt and pepper to taste. Cook until ham is slightly browned. Add cheese last, heat and stir until cheese is melted. Remove from heat. Finishing: Cover board and hands with dusting of flour. Separate dough into 6 different balls, then break off 1/4 of each ball (for ears/nose/etc) and set aside (so you end up with 6 large and 6 small balls of dough). Keep dough balls covered in a bowl with moistened cloth over it until using them so they don’t dry out (they dry out quickly). Scramble egg white in small bowl, keep near work station (easiest to use with a basting brush for application). Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Form large dough ball into flat circle (like you would for a pizza) about 1/4″ thick. Place 1/6 of filling mixture onto the middle, wrap sides of dough around to form a ball completely around the filling, making a seam only on the bottom side. Use a light brushing of the egg white to seal. Flip seam-down and place on well greased baking pan. Form small ball of dough into snout, tusks, ears, and hooves, attach with egg white. Use whole black peppers pressed into dough for eyes. Glaze finished pig lightly with egg white mixture. Repeat for each of the pigs, bake for 10-20 minutes (check at 10 minutes then every 5) or until golden brown. Check often so the ears don’t crisp too much!

Southwestern Stir-Fry

Southwestern Stir-Fry

1 pound pork tenderloin, cut in quarters lengthwise and then cut 1/4-inch thick

2 T. dry sherry

2 tsp. cornstarch

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. seasoned salt

1 T. vegetable oil

1 green bell pepper, seeded and cut into strips

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

12 cherry tomatoes, halved

 

Combine sherry, cornstarch, cumin, garlic and salt in a medium bowl. Add pork slices and stir to coat. Heat oil over medium-high heat in heavy skillet. Add pork mixture and stir fry about 3 to 4 minutes. Add remaining ingredients. Cover pan and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Serve hot with green Chile salsa.

 

Ham & Cheese Quesadillas with Cherry Jam

Ham & Cheese Quesadillas with Cherry Jam

1 T. vegetable oil

1 C. thinly sliced red onion

1 small jalapeño pepper, cored, seeded and minced

1 C. pitted fresh sweet cherries

1 T. brown sugar

1 tsp. balsamic vinegar

1/4 tsp. salt

2 (9-inch) flour tortillas

3 oz. ham, thinly sliced

2 oz. Havarti cheese, thinly sliced

2 tsp. butter

 

Heat vegetable oil in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and jalapeño pepper; cook and stir 3 minutes or until onions are golden. Add cherries; cook and stir 1 minute. Stir in brown sugar, vinegar and salt. Cook over low heat 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; cool slightly.  Arrange half of ham slices and half of cheese slices over one side of each tortilla. Top with one fourth of the cherry jam. Fold tortillas in half. Remove and reserve any remaining cherry jam.  Wipe out skillet. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Add quesadillas; press down firmly with spatula. Cook quesadillas 3 to 4 minutes per side or until golden and cheese melts. Remove from skillet. Cut each quesadilla in half. Serve with remaining cherry jam.

Bow Ties with Bacon and Tomatoes

Bow Ties with Bacon and Tomatoes

4 slices bacon, cut into 1″ pieces

1 medium onion, finely chopped (1/2 C.)

1 14.5oz. can diced tomatoes with roasted garlic and onion, undrained

1 14oz. can Chicken Broth

3 C. uncooked bow tie (farfalle) pasta (7oz.)

1/8 tsp. Pepper.

 

In 12″ skillet, cook bacon over medium high heat 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently until bacon is brown.  Reduce heat to medium.  Add onion; cook 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until onion is tender.  Stir in tomatoes, broth, uncooked pasta and pepper.  Heat to boiling over high heat.  Reduce heat to medium; cook uncovered 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and mixture is desired consistency.

Jamaican Pork with Melon

Jamaican Pork with Melon

1-1/2 pound boneless pork tenderloin, cut into 1-1/2-inch cubes

2 small red onions, quartered lengthwise

2 T. roasted peanut oil or peanut oil

4 tsp. Jamaican jerk seasoning

1/4 small honeydew melon, cut into 2-inch cubes

1/2 small cantaloupe, cut into 2-inch cubes

1 T. honey

 

Toss pork cubes and onion with oil and jerk seasoning in a medium mixing bowl until evenly coated. Thread eight 12-inch skewers alternately with pork, onion, honeydew, and cantaloupe pieces.  Place pork skewers on the lightly oiled of the grill directly over medium heat. Grill for 18 to 24 minutes or until pork is cooked through and no pink remains. Remove from grill; brush with honey. Makes 4 servings.

One Pot Ham & Cheese Tortellini

One Pot Ham & Cheese Tortellini

One Pot Ham & Cheese Tortellini

 

1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 shallot, minced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 lb. deli ham, chopped

Freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 lb. cheese tortellini

2 c. frozen peas

3/4 c. low-sodium chicken broth

1/3 c. heavy cream

1 c. shredded swiss

1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan

Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish

 

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add shallot and garlic and cook until soft, 3 minutes. Add ham and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Season with pepper. Add tortellini and frozen peas and stir until coated, then pour over chicken broth. Simmer until tortellini are al dente, 6 minutes. Add heavy cream, Swiss, and Parmesan and stir until creamy. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Spam Wontons

Spam Wontons

Spam Wontons

 

Wonton Wrappers

1 can Spam (low sodium) grated

1 can water chestnuts, chopped

6 shiitake, chopped

1/2 lb. fresh shrimps, chopped

1 egg

2 T. oyster sauce

Chopped Scallions, Green parts

Shoyu (just a drop)

Oil for deep frying

 

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Wrap about a tsp. of mixture on wonton wrapper. Deep fry.

Penny’s Sausage Gravy

Penny’s Sausage Gravy

1 pound bulk sausage (Jimmy Dean “hot” is best)

1 stick butter or margarine

½ C. all-purpose flour

4 C. milk

 

Brown sausage in skillet; drain. Set aside. In saucepan, melt butter over low heat. After completely melted, add flour and mix in with spoon until no lumps show. Add milk and turn heat to high, stirring constantly until it boils. Turn heat back down to medium-high, stirring constantly, until desired thickness is achieved. Stir in sausage. Serve over warm biscuits.

Homemade Pork Sausage

Homemade Pork Sausage

3 pounds fresh pork shoulder

1 small onion – sliced thinly

4 garlic cloves

6 T. milk

2 tsp. dried sage – crumbled

2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. dried savory – crumbled

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

 

Trim the fat from the pork and cut into 1 and 1/2-inch cubes. Place pork in the freezer for 30 minutes.  In a food processor, grind pork once by itself, then once more with the onion and garlic. In large bowl, mix the seasonings into pork mixture. Stir in milk. Cover and place in the refrigerator for an hour.  Form into 12 large patties. Cover and refrigerate. The sausage can be cooked immediately, but it’s best to refrigerate for 12 hours to allow the flavors to intermingle.  Cook patties on a griddle or in a skillet at medium-high heat until browned and cooked through (about 5 to 7 minutes per side).  If patties are refrigerated, use them within two days. If frozen, use within the month.

Homemade Pork Sausage

Homemade Pork Sausage

 

 

3 pounds fresh pork shoulder

1 small onion – sliced thinly

4 garlic cloves

6 T. milk

2 tsp. dried sage – crumbled

2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. dried savory – crumbled

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

 

Trim the fat from the pork and cut into 1 and 1/2-inch cubes. Place pork in the freezer for 30 minutes.  In a food processor, grind pork once by itself, then once more with the onion and garlic. In large bowl, mix the seasonings into pork mixture. Stir in milk. Cover and place in the refrigerator for an hour.  Form into 12 large patties. Cover and refrigerate. The sausage can be cooked immediately, but it’s best to refrigerate for 12 hours to allow the flavors to intermingle.  Cook patties on a griddle or in a skillet at medium-high heat until browned and cooked through (about 5 to 7 minutes per side).  If patties are refrigerated, use them within two days. If frozen, use within the month.

Ham with Red-Eyed Gravy and Creamy Grits

Ham with Red-Eyed Gravy and Creamy Grits

 

 

4 1/2 C. milk

2 T. butter

Salt

Freshly ground white pepper

2 C. quick white grits

1 pound ham steak (fresh) or a leftover ham roast with juices from baking

1 C. strong coffee

8 slices white bread-toasted and buttered

 

In a saucepan, over medium heat, add the milk and butter. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the liquid to a boil. Whisk in the grits. Stir constantly for 6 minutes or until tender.  Set aside and keep warm. Heat a skillet over medium heat. When the pan is hot, add the ham and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. (If using leftovers from a ham roast, add some of the juices from the pan.) Remove the ham from the pan and set aside. Stir in the coffee. Bring the liquid to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. To serve, cut the ham into four portions. Spoon the grits in the center of each plate. Lay each piece of the ham next to the grits. Spoon the gravy over the ham. Serve with toast.

Balsamic Roast Pork Tenderloin

Balsamic Roast Pork Tenderloin

4 1/2 lb. pork tenderloins, 2 packages with 1 tenderloin in each package (For the four of us I only cooked one of the tenderloins)

4 Tbsp. Balsamic vinegar

4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

8 cloves garlic, cracked or chopped

Steak seasoning blend or coarse salt and black pepper

4 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves stripped and finely chopped

4 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped and finely chopped (I used a teaspoon of dry)

 

Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Trim silver skin or connective tissue off tenderloins. Place tenderloins on a nonstick cookie sheet with a rim (I covered mine in foil). Cut small slits into meat and disperse chunks of cracked garlic cloves into meat. Coat tenderloins with a few tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and rub into meat.  Drizzle tenderloins with olive oil, just enough to coat.  Combine steak seasoning blend or coarse salt and pepper with rosemary and thyme and rub meat with blend.  Roast in hot oven for 20 minutes. Let meat rest, transfer to a carving board, slice and serve

Pasta with Arugula, Roasted Peppers & Italian Sausage

Pasta with Arugula, Roasted Peppers & Italian Sausage

 

4 links hot Italian sausage

1 pound fusilli, rotini, or penne

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, grated

2 roasted red bell peppers, julienned

2 roasted yellow bell peppers, julienned

7 ounces baby arugula

Kosher salt

Grated Parmegiano-Reggiano, for serving

 

Heat the grill to medium-low. Add the sausages and cook, covered, without disturbing for 8 to 9 minutes, or until they release from the grate and are crusty and brown. Using tongs, turn the sausages and continue to cook, covered, over medium-low heat another 6 to 7 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove the sausages to a plate, tent with foil to keep warm, and let rest for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water according to the package directions. Whisk together the oil and garlic in a very large bowl. Add the red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, and arugula and toss to coat. Season to taste with salt. Cut the sausage links in half lengthwise and slice into bite-size pieces. Drain the pasta when it is al dente. Immediately add the pasta and sausage to the arugula mixture and toss to combine. Arrange on individual plates, top with plenty of Parmegiano, and serve immediately.

Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells

 

1 12-oz. package jumbo pasta shells

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped

1 lb. Italian sausage, casings removed

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 15-oz. container ricotta cheese

6-7 oz. fresh spinach, chopped OR 10 oz. frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 tbsp. chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp. dried basil

1/4 cup bread crumbs

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 28-oz. can chopped tomatoes with herbs, including the liquid

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.  Cook pasta shells according to package directions.  Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.  Add the sausage to the pan, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.  Cook until the sausage is completely cooked through and no pink remains, about 5 minutes.  Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.  Remove from the heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, ricotta, spinach, 1/2 cup of the Parmesan, basil, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.  Stir together to combine.  Add the cooked sausage mixture to the bowl and stir until evenly mixed. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.  Spread a thin layer of the chopped tomatoes in the baking dishes (either three 8×8″ pans, or one 9×13″ and one 8×8″).  Stuff each shell with some of the sausage and cheese mixture, and arrange in the baking dishes, open side up.  Spread the remaining tomatoes over the top of the pasta shells. Cover the pans with foil and bake for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbling.  Remove foil and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.  Bake, uncovered, for 10 more minutes. 

Pork Schnitzel

Pork Schnitzel

 

2 boneless pork chops – pounded thin

1/8 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp milk

3/4 cup panko

3 teaspoons hot smoked paprika

3 Tbsp olive oil

1 tablespoon chopped chives

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup sour cream – not low fat

 

Use a meat cleaver and pound the pork cutlets to 1/4 inch thickness. Set out 3 plates.  One will have a mixture of flour, salt and pepper.  The second one will have the milk.  The third will have a mixture of bread crumbs and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat, do not allow it to smoke.  Dredge the cutlets first in the flour, then the milk, and then the panko.    Coat well. Sauté the cutlets for about 4 – 5 minutes on each side, until golden.   You may have to work in batches if your skillet is not big enough for two at a time – we had too.  Remove the cutlets from the skillet and cover with foil and keep warm in a preheated oven. While the cutlets are cooking, in  a small bowl mix the chives and salt into the sour cream. Serve the cutlets with the sour cream.  Eat.

Sicilian-style Strata

Sicilian-style Strata

 

1 loaf (1 lb.) crusty, Italian-style bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 ounces thick-sliced prosciutto or ham, diced

1/4 cup chopped canned roasted red peppers

1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 can (14 1/2 oz.) chopped tomatoes

1/4 cup pitted black olives, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

6 large eggs

3 cups milk

2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning blend

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/4 cup chopped parsley

2 tablespoons drained capers

 

Spread half the bread cubes level in a lightly oiled 9- by 13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with prosciutto, peppers, green onions, and parmesan cheese. Spread remaining bread cubes level on top, followed by tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to blend. Pour over layered ingredients. Cover and chill at least 1 hour or up to one day. Bake in a 325° regular or convection oven until center of strata is set and top is lightly browned, 40 to 50 minutes. Sprinkle evenly with parsley and capers. Let stand 10 minutes, then cut into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Chinese Deep-Fried Shrimp Balls

Chinese Deep-Fried Shrimp Balls

 

1 pound medium-sized shrimp in shells

3 ounces ground pork

 

Marinade:

¼ teaspoon white pepper

½ teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons minced ginger

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon dry sherry

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 egg white

 

 

¼ cup flour

3 cups cooking oil for deep-frying

 

Honey mustard sauce:

2 teaspoons mustard powder

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons plum sauce

¼ cup honey

 

Shell, devein, and rinse shrimp. Drain thoroughly. Add shrimp, pork and marinade to a food processor using the metal blade. Process for a few seconds, until shrimp is pasty. Remove to a bowl. Dust a cookie sheet with flour. Shape shrimp mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the cookie sheet.

To Cook: Heat 3 cups oil in a wok to 375 °F. Drop 8 shrimp balls into hot oil carefully, one at a time. Deep-fry for 3 to 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Deep-fry the remaining shrimp balls and serve with honey mustard sauce.

Shrimp, Scallop and Pork Shumai

Shrimp, Scallop and Pork Shumai

 

Filling:

1/2 pound medium shrimp, shelled and deveined

1/2 pound bay scallops

1/2 pound ground pork

2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro leaves

2 tablespoons minced shallots

2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 egg white, whipped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 (10-ounce) package round wonton wrappers (about 40 to 50 wrappers per package)

1 cup frozen peas

 

Canola oil, for brushing the steamer

Savoy cabbage, for lining the steamer, optional

Minced green onions, for garnish

Serving suggestion: soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice

 

To make the filling: Combine the shrimp, scallops, pork, ginger, cilantro, shallots, vinegar, sesame oil and egg whites in a food processor. Season with salt and pepper, add the corn starch and lemon juice and pulse to combine– I like my fillings to have a little texture. (Alternatively chop the shrimp and scallops finely then add the pork, ginger, cilantro and vinegar and chop together. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and rapidly mix in the vinegar, sesame oil, egg whites, seasoning, corn starch and lemon juice.) To make the shumai: Hold a wonton wrapper in your hand. Spoon 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of the wrapper (rinse the spoon in cold water so the filling doesn’t stick). Gather the edges of the wrapper up around the filling and squeeze the sides together with your fingers forming a little pleated cup. (The sides will naturally pleat, leaving the filling slightly exposed.) Tap the dumpling on the table so the bottom is flat and it stands upright then set aside on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling. Top each shumai with a pea. (You can freeze any leftover filling.) Lightly oil the bottom of a bamboo steamer then line it with the cabbage leaves. Stand the dumplings in the steamer in a single layer taking care that they don’t touch one another. (A 10-inch steamer will accommodate 12 shumai). Bring about 2 inches of water to a boil in a wok. Set the bamboo steamer in the wok, cover it with the bamboo lid and steam until the shumai feel firm, 10 to 12 minutes. Serve the shumai immediately garnished with green onions and accompanied by soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice.

Emeril’s Sausage Pot

Emeril’s Sausage Pot

 

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 large onions, sliced

2 (1-inch thick and 5-inch long) bacon pieces, large diced

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup Creole mustard

2 12-ounce bottles Turbo Dog beer

5 hot dogs

5 pounds assorted sausage

2 pounds sauerkraut

2 tablespoons chopped garlic

Cracklin’s 

Green onions

Creole seasoning

 

In a large pot, add olive oil. Add sliced onions and saute for 2 minutes. Add bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, or until bacon begins to render and onions are beginning to caramelize. Add the Creole mustard and the beer. Stir. Add half of the sausage. Add the sauerkraut on top of the sausage. Add the rest of the sausage. Add the hot dogs and the garlic. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 45 minutes. Garnish with Cracklin’s green onions and Creole Seasoning.

Vietnamese Fried Rice

Vietnamese Fried Rice

Cook 1 1/2 c. brown rice or have 3-4 c. readymade. (yes, you could use white rice if you must)

Heat in a large skillet:

4T. cooking oil (I usually use olive oil.)

Add:

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 large onion, diced

1 t. salt

1/2 t. black pepper

1 t. sugar

1 1/2 T. soy sauce (I always use low sodium.)

OPTIONAL: Meat truly is optional in this recipe. I have cooked it with no meat, chicken, BBQ pork leftovers, and shrimp. All tasty. If you are adding raw meat, add about 1/4 to 1/2 lb. of meat with the above ingredients and cook along with the onions and the garlic, etc. If I am using leftover meat (which is most of the time), I throw it in after the onions are mostly cooked just to heat it up.

Stir-fry until meat is hot and/or onions are translucent.

Add:

Cooked rice. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes.

Add:

1 – 2 c. Veggies ( I add more if I am going meatless). Oh, you need something more specific? Honestly, this is never the same twice for me. I use whatever I have on hand. Occasionally I will buy fresh bean sprouts to throw in because I am really fond of them, but mostly – whatever I have. Peas, cut up green beans, corn, shredded carrot, broccoli . . . Stir into rice mixture and allow the veggies to cook to desired tenderness. Just before serving, add:

2 eggs, beaten

Over medium heat, stir the eggs carefully through the mixture until they are cooked.

Butternut Squash, Sausage and Bow Ties

Butternut Squash, Sausage and Bow Ties

 

6 oz. (2.5 cups) uncooked bow tie pasta (farfalle)

12 oz. pork breakfast sausage links, cut into 1-inch pieces

3 T. olive oil

1 med, butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch pieces (4 cups)

1/2 c. sliced green onions

1 t. sugar

1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. dried marjoram leaves

1/4 t. dry mustard

 

Cook pasta to desired doneness as directed on package. Drain; cover to keep warm. Meanwhile, in 12-inch non-stick skillet, cook sausage as directed on package. Remove sausage and drippings from skillet; discard drippings. Add 2 T. of the oil to the same skillet. Heat over medium-low heat until hot. Add squash; cover and cook 10 minutes or until almost tender, stirring occasionally. Add onions; cover and cook 3-5 minutes or until squash is fork-tender, stirring occasionally.  Add cooked sausage, cooked pasta, sugar, salt, marjoram, mustard, and remaining 1 T. oil; mix well. Cook 3-5 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally.

Spicy Kielbasa Soup

Spicy Kielbasa Soup

1/2 pound reduced-fat smoked turkey kielbasa, sliced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 medium green pepper, chopped

1 celery ribs with leaves, thinly sliced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 (14.5 ounce) cans reduced sodium chicken broth

1 (15.5 ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained

1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, cut up

1 small zucchini, sliced

1 medium carrot, shredded

1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon pepper

 

In a nonstick skillet, cook kielbasa over medium heat until lightly browned. Add the onion, green pepper, celery and garlic. Cook and stir for 5 minutes or until vegetable are tender. Transfer to a slow cooker. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours.

Five Spice Pork Medallions

Five Spice Pork Medallions

1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed 

2 tsp. five spice powder 

1/4 tsp. kosher salt 

pinch of kosher salt 

4 tsp. light butter 

3 lg granny smith apples, cored and sliced in 1/2″ wedges 

1/2 C. dried cranberries 

 

Divide tenderloin into two same length pieces. Rub spice powder and 1/4 tsp. of the salt over all sides of each piece. In small skillet, melt 2 tsp. of the butter over medium high heat. Add tenderloin and brown on all sides, about 4 minutes. Cover and continue to cook, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 12 minutes. Cool 5 minutes and then slice each piece into 6 medallions. Meanwhile, in heavy skillet over medium high heat, combine apples, cranberries, remaining 2 tsp. butter, and pinch of salt with 1/2 C. water. Cook, shaking pan occasionally, until liquid has almost evaporated and apples soften. Serve with pork medallions and steamed greens, such as kale.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 248

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 3g

Cinnamon Rubbed Pork Loin with Roasted Apples and Onions

Cinnamon Rubbed Pork Loin with Roasted Apples and Onions

 

2 tsp. lemon peel 

1 tsp. ground cinnamon 

1/2 tsp. ground ginger 

1/8 tsp. ground allspice 

1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg 

1 tbsp olive oil 

1 center cut pork loin (1 1/2 lb) 

2 apples, peeled, cut into wedges

1 apple, unpeeled (garnish), cut into wedges 

3 med onions cut into wedges 

1/4 C. fresh lemon juice 

1/2 C. apple juice 

1/4 C. maple syrup 

 

Preheat oven to 375ºF. In small bowl, combine lemon peel, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg. In another small bowl, combine oil and half of the spice mixture. Season pork with salt and pepper, if desired, and rub with oil mixture. Set aside. In large bowl, toss apple and onion wedges with lemon juice and remaining spice mixture. Place in large roasting pan with pork and 1/2 C. water. Roast 50 minutes or until thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 160ºF. (Toss apple mixture once during roasting.) Remove pan from oven and let pork sit. Meanwhile, in medium saucepan, bring apple juice and maple syrup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 1 to 2 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. In food processor, puree peeled apples, two thirds of the onions, and pan drippings until smooth. Stir puree into juice mixture, season with salt and pepper, and heat on medium low until warm. Garnish pork with unpeeled apple wedges and remaining onions. Serve with sauce on the side.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 440

Fat: 12g

Fiber: 5g

Spice- Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Edamame Succotash

Spice- Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Edamame Succotash

 

 

1/2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1/4 tsp. smoked paprika

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)

2 C. frozen or fresh shelled edamame

1/3 C. light sour cream

2 T. lime juice

2 C. frozen corn kernels, thawed

1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped

1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Place the tenderloin in a roasting pan and coat with the spice mixture. Roast, turning once, for 25 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the center reaches 155°F. Let stand for 10 minutes. Cut diagonally into 12 slices. Meanwhile, cook the edamame according to package directions. Rinse under cold running water and drain. Stir together the sour cream and lime juice in a medium bowl. Add the edamame, corn, tomato, and cilantro and stir. Divide the salad among 4 shallow bowls. Serve with the pork slices.

Slow Cooked Honey-Dijon Pork Roast

Slow Cooked Honey-Dijon Pork Roast

1/2 C. chopped onion
2 apples, peeled and sliced
1 T. Honey
1 T. Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. coriander seed, crushed
1/4 tsp. Salt
1 (2 to 2 1/2 lb.) rolled boneless pork roast
1 T. Cornstarch
2 T. Water

In 4 to 6 qt. slow cooker, combine onion and apples. In small bowl, combine honey, mustard, coriander and salt; mix well. Spread on all sides of pork roast; place roast over onions and apples. Cover; cook on LOW for 7-8 hrs. Remove roast from slow cooker; place on serving platter. Cover with foil. In small saucepan, combine cornstarch and water, blend well. Add apple mixture and juices from slow cooker; mix well. Cook over med. heat until mixture boils, stirring occasionally. Cut roast into slices. Serve with sauce.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g

Pork-and-Black Bean Chili

Pork-and-Black Bean Chili

1 lb. lean boned pork loin roast
1 (16-oz) jar thick-and-chunky salsa
2 (15-oz) cans no-salt-added black beans, undrained
1 C. chopped yellow bell pepper
3/4 C. chopped onion
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 C. fat-free sour cream

Trim fat from pork; cut into 1-inch pieces. Combine pork and next 7 ingredients in a 4-quart electric slow cooker; stir well. Cover with lid; cook on low-heat setting for 8 hours or until pork is tender. Ladle chili into bowls; top with sour cream.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 2 C. chili and 1 T. sour cream

Calories: 379
Fat: 9.4g
Fiber: 6.2g

Grilled Pork Chops with Rhubarb Chutney

Grilled Pork Chops with Rhubarb Chutney

Chutney:
1/2 C. sugar
1/4 C. balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. ground coriander
1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
2 C. coarsely chopped rhubarb (about 1/2 lb.)
1/3 C. dried cranberries
1/4 C. chopped green onions
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper

Pork:
1/3 C. red currant jelly
1 T. whole-grain Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. ground cumin
4 (6-oz.) bone-in center-cut pork chops (about 1/4 inch thick)
Cooking spray
Thinly sliced green onions (optional)

To prepare chutney, combine first 4 ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add rhubarb and the next 4 ingredients (rhubarb through ground red pepper); reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until rhubarb is tender. Spoon into a bowl; cover and chill at least 2 hours. Discard cinnamon stick. Prepare grill. To prepare pork, combine jelly and mustard in a small bowl; set aside. Combine 1/2 tsp. salt, black pepper, and cumin; rub evenly over pork. Place pork on a grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill 4 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness, basting occasionally with jelly mixture. Serve pork with chutney; sprinkle with green onions, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 1 pork chop and 1/2 C. chutney

Calories: 400
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2.6g

Pan-Seared Pork Cutlets with Nectarine Salsa

Pan-Seared Pork Cutlets with Nectarine Salsa

2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
8 (2-oz.) pork loin cutlets
1 tsp. olive oil
Cooking spray
1/2 C. bottled salsa
1/4 C. apricot preserves
4 C. sliced peeled nectarines
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro
2 T. chopped fresh oregano

Combine first 6 ingredients; rub mixture over both sides of pork. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Add pork, and saut� 2 minutes on each side or until done. Remove from pan; keep warm. Add salsa and preserves to skillet, and bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute. Stir in the nectarine slices, cilantro, and oregano, and cook mixture 1 minute or until thoroughly heated. Serve salsa with pork.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 2 cutlets and 1 C. salsa

Calories: 322
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 4.7g

Sweet Sausages Braised in Onions with Horseradish Smashed Potatoes

Sweet Sausages Braised in Onions with Horseradish Smashed Potatoes

 

2 lbs. small red potatoes cut into quarters

Coarse salt

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) (once around the pan)

8 links (about 2 pounds sweet Italian sausage

2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced

2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves (I used 1 1/2 t. dried thyme)

3 garlic cloves, chopped

Coarse black pepper

1/4 c. balsamic vinegar (eyeball it)

2 c. chicken stock or 1 1/4 oz. can chicken broth

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 – 1/3 c. sour cream

1 rounded tablespoon prepared horseradish

1/4 – 1/2 c. milk, depending on how you like your mashers

1/4 c. fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

 

For the smashed potatoes, place the potatoes in a pot and cover with water. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Salt the water and potatoes. Take off the lid and boil the potatoes until tender, 10 to 12 minutes. While the potatoes are cooking, start the sausages. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with the EVOO. Add the sausage links and brown on all sides, about 4 minutes. Remove the sausages from the skillet and reserve. To the skillet, add the onions, thyme, and garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Cook the onions, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the balsamic vinegar, chicken stock, and honey. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then add the browned sausages back to the pan and braise the sausages until they are cooked through and the sauce has reduced by half, 8 to 10 minutes. While the sausages are braising, drain the potatoes and return them in the hot pot to the warm stovetop to dry them out. Add the butter, sour cream, horseradish, and milk to the potatoes and smash to the desired consistency. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Divide the horseradish smashed potatoes among 4 serving dishes. Add the chopped parsley to the sausages, and then top each serving of potatoes with 2 sausages and some of the braising liquid.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Serving Size: 2 Sausages and 1/4 Potatoes

 

Calories: 583 (443 with one sausage)

Fat: 29g (20g with one sausage)

Fiber: 2.3g

 

Lime-Cilantro Pork Tacos

Lime-Cilantro Pork Tacos

1 lb. pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into thin strips
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 tsp. olive oil
1 1/2 C. thinly sliced onion
1 small jalape�o pepper, seeded and chopped
1/2 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/2 C. chopped plum tomato
3 T. chopped cilantro
2 1/2 T. fresh lime juice
8 (6-inch) flour tortillas

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle pork with salt and black pepper. Add oil to pan. Add pork, and saut� 4 minutes or until browned. Remove pork from pan; place in a bowl. Add onion and jalape�o to pan; saut� 5 minutes or until tender. Add broth; reduce heat, and simmer 1 minute, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Stir in tomato; simmer 2 minutes.
Return pork and accumulated juices to pan. Stir in cilantro and lime juice; cook 1 minute or until pork is done. Heat tortillas according to package directions. Spoon 1/2 C. pork mixture into each tortilla; roll up.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 2 tacos

Calories: 416
Fat: 13.1g
Fiber: 3.6g