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Category: Pork

Green with Envy Orecchiette and Red Wine Braised Sausages

Green with Envy Orecchiette and Red Wine Braised Sausages

 

2 pounds – 8 short links or 4 large, hot or sweet Italian sausages

2 C. dry red wine

1/2 C. extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), divided

Salt

1 pound orecchiette pasta

1/2 C. hazelnuts

1 package or bunch chives, coarsely chopped or torn by hand

2 cloves garlic, popped from skin, 1 clove minced, divided

12 stems tarragon, 1 package or small bunch, leaves stripped from stems

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 C. grated Parmigiano Reggiano, plus more to pass at table

1 bunch green Swiss chard, stems removed and roughly chopped

A little freshly grated nutmeg, to taste

 

Place sausages in a skillet and add wine and 1 T. EVOO to the pan. Place pan over medium-high heat and let the wine reduce and evaporate, 15-18 minutes. Eventually, the casings will crisp up and the wine and oil will glaze the casings. Place a pot of water on to boil for the pasta. Salt water and cook to al dente. Heads up: you will need 1 1/2 cups, a couple of ladles, starchy cooking water just before you drain the orecchiette. Toast hazelnuts 5 minutes over medium-low heat in a small skillet. Cool a few minutes. Place the chives, garlic, tarragon, salt and pepper and nuts into food processor and turn it on. Stream in about 5 T. EVOO and process the ingredients into a smooth but thick sauce. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and stir in the cheese. The color is stronger if you stir rather than process the cheese into the sauce. Heat remaining 2 T. EVOO in a large skillet over medium high to high heat. Add greens, minced garlic and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste. Sear greens, tossing them as they wilt down, 3-4 minutes. Add cooking liquids to pesto in bowl then add pasta and greens and toss to coat the pasta and let the flavors absorb, 1 minute. Serve 2 braised sausages with lots of greens alongside.

Pancetta, Bay and Onion sauce with Whole-Wheat Pasta

Pancetta, Bay and Onion sauce with Whole-Wheat Pasta

 

1 lb. whole wheat Gemelli or Penne Pasta

3 T. EVOO

1/3 lb. Pancetta, chopped into small dice

2 medium Onions, chopped

3 Bay Leaves

4 cloves Garlic, grated or finely chopped

1 28oz. can Tomatoes (San Marzano if you can get them, imports are worth it for this sauce)

1 ½ C. Chicken Stock

½ C. grated Pecorino Romano

 

Cook pasta al dente. Meanwhile, heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat with EVOO. Add pancetta and cook for 3-4 minutes, until crispy. Add onions, bay leaves and garlic. Cook until onions are very soft and tender, 7-8 minutes. Add tomatoes and break up into pieces with back of spoon. Add stock and season with lots of pepper and a little salt. Let sauce reduce while pasta finishes cooking. Drain pasta and toss with sauce for a minute. Remove bay leaves and serve pasta with lots of grated cheese.

Cheesy Pasta Presto

Cheesy Pasta Presto

 

1 lb. short Pasta, such as Penne

2 T. EVOO

5 ¼” slices Pancetta, finely diced

1 small Onion, chopped

4 large Garlic Cloves, grated or finely chopped

1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes

1 Lemon

1 Orange

½ – ¾ C. Chicken Stock

1 C. fresh Basil (about 20 leaves)

4 C. Arugula Leaves

1 C. whole-milk Ricotta

1 C. grated Parmesan, plus more for passing at table

 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt liberally, add pasta, and cook al dente. Right before draining, remove and reserve about 1 C. of the pasta water. Once the water is almost ready for pasta, heal a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add EVOO and pancetta and cook until crispy, 3-4 minutes. Add onions and garlic and season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Zest lemon and orange directly into the pan, and then squeeze juice from both into the pan, careful not to drop any seeds. Add chicken stock and bring to a bubble, then turn off the heat. Coarsely chop basil and arugula. Drain pasta and add it and reserved pasta liquid to the skillet. Stir in ricotta, parmesan, basil and arugula. Serve.

Spanish Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

Spanish Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

 

4 Large Flour Tortillas

Cooking Spray

1/4 C. Spanish Olives with pimiento, chopped

8 marinated mushrooms drained and sliced

Flat leaf parsley, a handful chopped

8 slices Serrano ham or Prosciutto

1/2 pound Fontina cheese, thinly sliced

 

Salad:

1 small shallot, grated

3 T. Olive Oil

2 Hearts of Romaine lettuce, chopped

1/4 seedless cucumber, thinly sliced

4 roasted Spanish piquillo peppers, or 2 roasted red peppers

1/4 C. sliced toasted almonds

 

Preheat oven to 250. Preheat a foil lined baking sheet in the middle of the oven. Preheat a skillet over medium high heat Spray tortilla lightly with cooking spray and place in hot skillet. Heat until it starts to blister, about 1 minute, then flip it over. Top 1/2 of the tortilla with one quarter of the olives, mushrooms, and parsley. Top with two slices of cheese and ham. Fold the tortilla over and cook for another minute on each side to melt the cheese . Transfer to warm oven and repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. For the salad, combine the shallot and the vinegar and whisk in the Olive Oil

Combine the Hearts of Romaine, cucumber, peppers and almonds in a bowl and toss with the dressing. Season with salt and pepper.

Char Siu Pork

Char Siu Pork

3 pounds boneless pork (butt, tenderloin, shoulder, etc.)

1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce

1/4 cup oyster sauce

3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 1/2 teaspoons Chinese 5-Spice powder

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

3 drops red food coloring

1/4 cup honey, for brushing over the pork

2 cups rice, cooked according to package directions, for serving

 

Combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, white sugar, brown sugar, Chinese 5-Spice powder, salt, and ginger in a bowl and whisk together. Place your pork in a large sealable bag or container, then add in the marinade. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, but overnight is best for the skin to become saturated with the sweet marinade.  Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line and/or grease a large rimmed pan or dish and place the pork in it. Cover the pan or dish with tinfoil and bake for 25 minutes. Take the pork out of the oven, flip it on its other side, and bake for another 25 minutes.  Take the pork out of the oven and turn the oven’s heat up to 450 degrees F, or your broiler setting. Broil the pork for another 5-8 minutes, until the skin is crispy and shiny. Take the pork out, baste it with some of the juices from the pan, and brush with the honey.  Slice at a 45 degree angle and serve over cooked rice. Serves 2-3.

Sausage, Pepper and Onion Stromboli

Sausage, Pepper and Onion Stromboli

 

2-4 Sweet or garlic Italian sausage

1 ball of pizza dough (or from refrigerated tube)

6-8 oz Mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 portabello mushroom cap

2 T. pickled pepper rings

1/2 onion, coarsely chopped

1 handful of corn meal

1 T. of olive oil

1 T. of milk

2 table spoons of sesame seeds

1-2 tsp. garlic, chopped

 

Brush the mushroom cap with garlic and olive oil. Grill for 8 minutes per side over medium high heat. If you do not have a grill, you can use a non-stick pan. Slice the mushroom and let stand for a few minutes. Grill sausages slowly over medium heat, allow the grease to drain. You can cut the sausage in half length-wise after it is browned to help speed the cooking process. I grilled the sausage and mushrooms at the same time, though the sausages take at least 30 minutes. Slice the sausage into disk shaped pieces about 1/4 inch thick. Roll out the dough, using the corn meal to prevent sticking to your board.

Lay out the dough on a cookie sheet. Spread the sausage on the dough, top with onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Spread the shredded cheese over top. Roll up the dough around the ingredients. Press down the ends with a fork to seal, this is important so that you do not lose your cheese. Poke holes with a tooth pick all along the top. The holes should be spaced at least 1 inch apart. This is important so that your pie does not explode in the oven. Brush the surface of the dough with milk; this will help the sesame seed stick to the dough. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 375o for 30 minutes. Let stand at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before cutting.

Slow Roasted Pork Belly with Baked Apple & Onion

Slow Roasted Pork Belly with Baked Apple & Onion

When it comes to roasting, there aren’t many things more forgiving than pork belly. All that fat keeps things lovely and moist even if it is overcooked a little so fear not. When rolled like I have here it is not only a good looking roast, but the lack of bones make for super easy carving. As with all meat, it’s best if it is at room temperature before it goes into the oven so take the pork out of the fridge a few hours before you’re ready to cook.

 

3 heads garlic

1 small bunch sage, leaves picked & roughly chopped

1T smoky paprika

2T fennel seeds, ground

2T olive oil

2kg pork belly, bones removed and skin scored (get your butcher to do this)

2T olive oil, extra

3 red onions

8 small apples

1C (250mL) dry white wine

 

Preheat oven to 180C. Break garlic into individual cloves but leave the skins on. Place in a small ovenproof dish and bake for 20-30mins or until garlic is very soft. Allow to cool and then squeeze out soft flesh into a small bowl, discarding the skins. Stir through sage, paprika, fennel seeds and olive oil to form a chunky paste. Season. Place pork belly on a wire rack skin side up and position over the sink. Pour boiling water oven the skin to soften it then pat dry. Place belly on a clean surface skin side down and spread the paste in a long row down the center of the belly. Roll the belly into a log and tie with kitchen string to hold in place. If any of the garlic mix oozes out just stuff it back in the best you can. Increase oven temperature to 250C. Peel and slice each onion into three thick rounds and place in a layer on the bottom of a baking dish. Place pork on top of the onion with the join side down. Rub with extra olive oil and sprinkle generously with sea salt. Bake for 30mins. Reduce heat to 160C and add wine and 1C water. Score apples in a ring around their middles and place in the baking dish next to the pork. Bake for an additional 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until pork is tender inside and the skin is golden. Drain cooking juices into a saucepan and allow pork to rest in a warm place. While the pork is resting bring juices to a simmer to reduce slightly.  To serve slice pork into round approx 1cm thick divide pork slices, onion and apples between 8 warmed plates. Drizzle over reduced juices and serve immediately. For a delicious Sunday lunch, serve with braised fennel, hasselback potatoes and a green salad.

Maiale In Agrodolce (Sweet and Sour Glazed Pork Chops)

Maiale In Agrodolce (Sweet and Sour Glazed Pork Chops)

4  10-oz. bone-in pork chops, frenched (I used regular bone-in pork chops, but didn’t French them, which means to clean off the area near the tip of the bone. Your call.)

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1⁄3 cup balsamic vinegar

2 T. honey

4 T. unsalted butter (I used only 3 T. – it was plenty)

1 sprig fresh rosemary, torn into 1″ pieces

 

Put pork chops on a plate; drizzle with oil; season generously with salt and pepper; let sit for 30 minutes.  Meanwhile, build a medium-hot fire in a charcoal grill or heat a gas grill to medium-high heat. Combine vinegar and honey in a 1-qt. saucepan and cook over medium heat until reduced to 1⁄4 cup. Stir in butter and rosemary and set aside.  Put pork chops on grill and cook, occasionally turning and basting with balsamic mixture, until browned and cooked through, 12–14 minutes. Transfer to a platter and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Mu Shu-Style Pork Roll-Ups

Mu Shu-Style Pork Roll-Ups

4 10-inch flour tortillas

1 tsp. toasted sesame oil

12 ounces lean boneless pork, cut into strips

2 C. loose-pack frozen stir-fry vegetables (any combination)

1/4 C. bottled plum or hoisin sauce

Preheat oven to 350 degree F. Wrap tortillas tightly in foil. Heat in preheated oven for 10 minutes to soften. (Or wrap tortillas in white, microwave-safe paper towels; microwave on high [100 percent] power for 15 to 30 seconds or until tortillas are softened.) Meanwhile, in a large skillet heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add pork strips; stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until done Add stir-fry vegetables. Cook and stir for 3 to 4 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Spread each tortilla with 1 T. of the plum or hoisin sauce; place a quarter of the meat mixture just below the center of each tortilla. Fold the bottom edge of each tortilla up and over the filling. Fold in the sides until they meet; roll up over the filling.

Asian Pork and Baby Peas

Asian Pork and Baby Peas

 

2 tsp. Vegetable oil

1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound), cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

2 clove garlic, crushed with press

1 package (10 ounces) frozen baby peas

3 T. reduced-sodium soy sauce

2 T. seasoned rice vinegar

1 T. fresh ginger, peeled and grated

1 T. mild molasses

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper

 

In nonstick 12-inch skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add pork slices and garlic, and cook until they are browned on the outside and just lose their pink color on the inside, about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer pork to plate. To same skillet, add frozen peas, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, molasses, and crushed red pepper; cook, about 4 minutes, until peas are heated through. Return pork to skillet; toss to coat. Spoon pork mixture over rice to serve.

Cranberry Dijon Pork Tenderloin

Cranberry Dijon Pork Tenderloin

1 or 2 cans whole cranberry sauce

4 T. lemon juice

4 T. Dijon Mustard

3 T. brown sugar

2 pork tenderloins

 

Combine cranberry sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar in a bowl and whisk to blend. Place tenderloins in bottom of C slow cooker. Spoon or pour the cranberry mixture into the Crockot, covering the tenderloins. Cover Crock Pot and cook on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours or on LOW for 8 to 10 hours.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Pork Chops with Apples, Pears and Maple Syrup

Pork Chops with Apples, Pears and Maple Syrup

 

2 pork chops

1 T. olive oil

1 T. butter

Pinch red pepper flakes or more to taste

Juice of 1/2 a lemon

1/4 C. apple cider

1/2 small onion, chopped

1/4 C. maple syrup

1 apple, peeled, chopped

1 pear, peeled, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp. fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1 tsp. fresh sage, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Preheat the oven to 350F. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. Dredge each pork chop lightly in the flour. In an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil, butter and red pepper flakes. When the butter is melted, place the chops into the pan. Brown the pork chops on both sides for about 2 minutes per side. Remove the pork chops from the pan and keep warm. Deglaze the pan with the apple cider and lemon juice. Cook until the liquid has reduced by 1/2. Add the onions and cook for 1 minute. Add apple, pear, garlic and maple syrup. Cook for another minute. Add the herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the pork chops to the pan and put the whole pan into the oven to finish cooking. When the chops reach 145 degrees, remove the pan from the oven. Serve with pork chops with the apple-pear sauce spooned on top.

Cavatelli with Sausage and Rapini

Cavatelli with Sausage and Rapini

 

1 lb. package cavatelli pasta

2 T.p olive oil

2 hot Italian sausages, crumbled

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 bunch rapini, washed, roughly chopped, blanched in boiling water for 2 minutes

1/4 C. of white wine

2 C. grape tomatoes, halved

2 T.p chopped fresh savoury or other fresh herb

2 T.p chopped fresh parsley or other fresh herb

1/4 C. freshly grated Parmesan, or to taste

1/2 C. whipping (35%) cream

1 C. chicken stock

 

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the onion and sauté until onions are soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, sauté until softened, about another 1 minute. Add wine to deglaze the skillet. Add chicken stock and let reduce by half. Add cream and bring back to a simmer. Add the grape tomatoes, cook for 1 minute, just to soften. Toss in blanched rapini. Set aside until pasta is ready. While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cavatelli and cook for 6 to 7 minutes or until al dente (if using fresh cavatelli, cook about 4 to 5 minutes or until al dente). Drain and add to the skillet with the sauce. Add Parmesan. Toss pasta and coat with sauce to cover over medium heat. Garnish with parsley. Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Pork Chops with Pear Sauce

Pork Chops with Pear Sauce

 

3 pears – peeled, cored and chopped

3 T. brown sugar

2 T. lemon juice

3/4 C. pear juice

2 T. ground cinnamon, or to taste

1 T. vegetable oil

6 thin cut boneless pork chops

 

In a medium saucepan, mix the pears, brown sugar, lemon juice, pear juice, and cinnamon. Bring to boil. Cook 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Transfer the sauce mixture to a blender, and blend until smooth. Return to saucepan, cover, and simmer 15 minutes over low heat. Remove from heat, and allow to cool. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the pork chops 8 minutes, turning once, until done. Drizzle with the pear sauce to serve.

Italian Sausage and Vegetables with Polenta

Italian Sausage and Vegetables with Polenta

 

1 pound Italian sausage

2 C. sliced onion

1 tsp. minced fresh garlic

2 C. sliced crimini mushrooms, cleaned

1 C. sliced zucchini

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes in tomato puree

2 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried oregano

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

1/2 tsp. salt

1 (17-ounce) package pre-cooked garlic flavored polenta, cut into 1/4-inch rounds

1 1/2 C. shredded Provolone cheese

1/4 C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

 

Squeeze sausage out of the casings into a large heavy skillet. Over medium heat, sauté sausage, breaking up sausage into small pieces. Cook until sausage is no longer pink. Remove sausage from pan with a slotted spoon and drain well on clean paper towels. Reserve 1 T. pan drippings and discard other drippings. Reheat same large heavy skillet over medium heat and add reserved 1 T. pan drippings. Add onion and garlic and sauté until onion is soft. Add mushrooms and zucchini. Cook and stir frequently until all liquid evaporates. Stir in tomatoes, herbs, red pepper flakes and salt. Return sausage to pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Spread an even scant layer (about 2/3 C.) of sauce on bottom of an 11×7 inch baking pan. Add a single layer of sliced polenta rounds. Layer with 2 C. of sausage sauce, followed by 3/4 C. of Provolone. Finish with an additional layer of polenta rounds, all the sausage sauce and all the Provolone. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese atop. Bake, uncovered, in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.  Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves.

Pork Medallions with Cranberry and Fig Chutney

Pork Medallions with Cranberry and Fig Chutney

 

1/2 C. fresh cranberries or 1/4 C. canned whole cranberry sauce

1/4 C. apple juice or apple cider

2 T. snipped dried figs

1 T. packed brown sugar or granulated sugar

1/2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary or 1/4 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed

1/4 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. ground black pepper

6 ounces pork tenderloin

1/4 tsp. salt-free herb seasoning

Nonstick cooking spray

Hot cooked brown or long grain rice (optional)

 

For chutney: In a heavy small saucepan, stir together cranberries or cranberry sauce, apple juice, figs, sugar, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 5 to 8 minutes or until chutney reaches desired consistency, stirring occasionally. Set aside. Meanwhile, trim fat from pork. Cut pork crosswise into six pieces, each about 1 inch thick. Press each piece with the palm of your hand to an even thickness. Sprinkle herb seasoning evenly over pork. Coat an unheated large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat over medium-high heat. Cook pork in hot skillet for 2 to 3 minutes or until pork is slightly pink in center and juices run clear, turning once halfway through cooking time. To serve, divide pork medallions between two dinner plates. If desired, serve with hot cooked rice. Spoon some of the warm chutney over pork. Pass remaining chutney.

Pork Chops with Chili-Apricot Glaze

Pork Chops with Chili-Apricot Glaze

 

1/4 C. apricot jam or preserves

1/4 C. chili sauce

1 T. sweet-hot mustard or brown mustard

1 T. water

4 boneless pork top loin chops, 1 inch thick (about 1-1/2 pounds total)

 

For glaze, cut up any large pieces in apricot jam or preserves. In a small saucepan combine jam or preserves, chili sauce, mustard, and water. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until heated through and well blended. Remove from heat. Trim excess fat from pork chops. Place chops on unheated rack of broiler pan. Broil 4 to 5 inches from heat for 8 minutes. Turn pork chops; brush generously with glaze. Broil 8 to 12 minutes more or until juices run clear. Spoon any remaining glaze over meat before serving.

Maple-Glazed Pork Chops

Maple-Glazed Pork Chops

 

1/2 C. all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste

4 bone-in pork loin chops, 1 inch thick

2 T. butter

1/4 C. cider vinegar

1/3 C. maple syrup

1 T. cornstarch

3 T. water

2/3 C. packed brown sugar

 

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine flour, salt and pepper. Add pork chops and shake to coat. In a skillet, brown chops on both sides in butter. Place in an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake, uncovered, at 450 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until juices run clear. Meanwhile, in a skillet, bring the vinegar to a boil. Reduce heat; add maple syrup. Cover and cook for 10 minutes. Combine cornstarch and water until smooth; add to the maple mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Place chops on a broiler pan; sprinkle with brown sugar. Broil 4 in. from the heat for 2-3 minutes or until sugar is melted. Drizzle with maple glaze.

Garlic Lime Pork Chops with Red Quinoa Pilaf

Garlic Lime Pork Chops with Red Quinoa Pilaf

 

Pork Chops:

1 C. fine salt

1/2 C. granulated sugar

1 T.p ea red, while, black, peppercorns

1 tsp each dried rosemary and thyme

Fresh ground pepper

4 bone-in rib chops

 

Quinoa:

1 C. Inca red quinoa

2 C. chicken broth

4 oz smoked mozzarella chopped into 1/2 inch cubes

1 small red onion finely chopped

1 C. cooked lady peas

~C. cherry tomatoes quartered

1 T.p good extra virgin olive oil

2 tsp lemon juice

zest of 1 lemon

S&P

chopped cilantro for garnish

 

Garlic Lime Sauce:

1/4 C. fresh lime juice

1 garlic clove minced

1/4 tsp. red-pepper flakes

1/3 C. olive oil

2 T. chopped fresh cilantro

 

In a large sauce pan, bring all ingredients, except the chops, to a boil. Stir until sugar and salt dissolves. Fill a large container halfway with ice. Add salt mixture. Allow to cool, about 10 minutes. When brine is cool, submerge chops. Cover container and refrigerate for 1 to 3 hours. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add quinoa. Cover, lower heat to simmer, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender, but not mushy. Keep warm. Preheat grill to high heat. Remove chops from brine and discard brine. Rinse chops thoroughly under cold water and pat dry. Sprinkle chops liberally with fresh ground pepper. On a folded paper towel, pour a small amount of olive oil. Using tongs, apply the oil onto the grill grates. Place chops on the grill. They will sizzle and you may get some small flare-ups, this is fine. Let chops cook for about 2 minute then give the chops a quarter turn. Let cook for about 3 minutes more then flip and repeat. Remove chops when they are medium-rare to medium. I cook mine to a temperature of 140 degrees-f. They as a little pink. No worries when you are eating good pork. In a mixing bowl, add the quinoa, onions, tomatoes, and lady peas. Toss gently. Add remaining ingredients except the cilantro and toss lightly to combine. For the sauce: whisk together lime juice, garlic, red-pepper flakes, and 1/4 tsp. salt, then add oil in a slow stream. Add cilantro and whisk to combine. Serve over chops.

Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Quinoa Pilaf and Dried Fruit

Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Quinoa Pilaf and Dried Fruit

 

2 1/4 C. chicken stock or low-sodium broth

1 small shallot, minced

1 garlic clove, minced

2/3 C. quinoa

2 T. wheat berries

1 thyme sprig

1 bay leaf

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Four 5-ounce boneless pork loin chops, trimmed of fat

Salt and freshly ground pepper

2 dried pear halves, diced

4 dried apricot halves, sliced

1/4 C. dried sour cherries (1 ounce)

2 T. ruby port

 

Preheat the oven to 350°. In a small skillet, combine 1/4 C. of the stock with the shallot and garlic and cook over moderate heat for 2 minutes. Add the quinoa, wheat berries, thyme and bay leaf. Add 1 C. of the stock and bring to a simmer. Scrape the mixture into a 9-inch square baking dish, cover with foil and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa and wheat berries are tender. Remove the pilaf from the oven and keep covered. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper and brown them in the skillet over moderately high heat, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate. Add the dried pears, apricots and cherries to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Add the port and cook for 1 minute. Add the remaining 1 C. of stock and simmer over moderately high heat until reduced to 1/3 C., about 5 minutes. Add the pork chops and any accumulated juices and cook over moderate heat, turning the pork a few times, until it is hot and just cooked, about 2 minutes.  Uncover the pilaf and fluff it with a fork; season with salt and pepper. Mound the pilaf on plates. Set the pork chops on the pilaf, top with the fruit sauce and serve.

Curried Pork with Apples

Curried Pork with Apples

1 pound lean pork, diced

1 T. vegetable oil

2 apples, peeled, cored, chopped

1/2 C. chopped onion

2 T. flour

1 to 2 tsp. curry powder, to taste

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground ginger

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

2 C. chicken broth

1 T. lemon juice

1/4 to 1/2 C. golden raisins, optional

Hot cooked rice

 

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Brown the diced pork. Add apples and chopped onions; brown lightly. Add 2 T. flour and curry powder; stir to blend. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes. Serve with hot cooked rice. Serves 4 to 6.

Pork Tenderloin with Apples, Cider and Calvados

Pork Tenderloin with Apples, Cider and Calvados

 

1 pound pork tenderloin

5 T. butter

4 Golden Delicious apples, cored

1 tsp. brown sugar

2 large shallots, peeled and chopped

1 T. fresh thyme

¼ C. Calvados

1 C. half-and-half

¼ C. apple cider

 

Slice pork into ½ inch thick slices. Place between wax paper and flatten with a mallet. Wrap or cover and refrigerate. Melt twp T. butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add apples and sugar. Brown apples lightly, for about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet, and set aside. Melt two more tsp. of butter over high heat. Add the pork. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté until cooked through and lightly browned, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside, keeping the pork warm. Melt one tsp. butter in the same skillet. Brown shallots, adding the fresh thyme. Add Calvados and boil until reduced to glaze. Blend in half-and-half and cider and boil until entire mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper. Reheat apples and pork. Serve with sauce.

Braised Pork with Apples

Braised Pork with Apples

1 lb. pork tenderloin

1/2 tsp. black pepper

1/2 tsp. sage, crushed

1/2 tsp. thyme

1/2 tsp. ginger

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1 T. vegetable oil

1 onion, minced

1 apple, cored and coarsely chopped

1/2 C. apple cider

 

Slice pork crosswise into 8 medallions. Mix pepper, sage, thyme, ginger and cinnamon and coat pork medallions. Heat oil in a large skillet; saute pork on both sides until it is brown. Remove from pan and reserve, covered, to keep warm. Add onion and chopped apples to skillet and sauté until golden. Add apple cider and heat to simmer. Put pork in liquid, cover and simmer 5 minutes. Makes 4 servings.

Rum-Marinated Pork Chops

Rum-Marinated Pork Chops

1-1/2 C. coarsely chopped onion (about 1 large)

1/4 C. dark rum (or 1/4 C. apple juice)

2 T. lemon juice

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. dried crushed red pepper

1/2 tsp. dried thyme

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg

4 (5 oz) lean center-cut pork loin chops (1/2-inch thick), trimmed

Cooking spray

 

Combine first 8 ingredients in a large heavy-duty zip-top bag. Add pork, and seal bag; turn to coat. Marinate in refrigerator at least 8 hours, turning occasionally. Remove chops from marinade, discarding marinade.  Preheat the grill. Place pork chops on grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill, covered, 10 minutes or until done, turning once.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 206

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 1g

Sweet-Sour Cabbage with Pork

Sweet-Sour Cabbage with Pork

 

16 oz. extra-lean pork tenderloin, cut into bite-size pieces

1/2 C. chopped onion

4 C. shredded cabbage

1 C. water

1/2 C. Splenda Granular

1/2 C. apple cider vinegar

3 T. all-purpose flour

1/8 tsp. black pepper

 

In a large skillet sprayed with butter-flavored cooking spray, brown meat and onion for 6 to 8 minutes. Add cabbage and 3/4 C. water. Mix well to combine. Continue cooking for 5 to 6 minutes or until cabbage is tender. Stir in Splenda and vinegar. In a small bowl, combine remaining 1/4 C. water, flour, and black pepper. Add flour mixture to cabbage mixture. Mix well to combine. Continue cooking for 5 minutes or until mixture thickens, stirring often.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 200

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 2g

Main Dish Corn Bread

Main Dish Corn Bread

 

1 (10-3/4 oz) can reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup

1/3 C. fat-free milk

1 egg, slightly beaten, or   equivalent in egg substitute

1-1/4 C. reduced-fat biscuit baking mix

1/2 C. yellow cornmeal

1/4 C. Splenda Granular

1/2 C. frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed

1 C. frozen chopped broccoli, thawed

1-1/2 C. diced extra-lean ham

1/8 C. shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese

1 tsp. dried parsley flakes

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees: Spray an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with butter-flavored cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine mushroom soup, milk, and egg. Stir in baking mix, cornmeal, and Splenda. Add corn, broccoli, ham, Cheddar cheese, and parsley flakes. Mix well to combine.  Spread mixture evenly into prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Place baking dish on a wire rack and let set for 5 minutes.

 

Yield: 8 servings

Calories: 205

Fat: 5g

Fiber: 2g

Mix and Match Skillet Meals

Mix and Match Skillet Meals

 

 

PASTA, RICE, GRAINS

SAUCE

MEAT

VEGETABLES

1 cup uncooked

14-16 oz. plus 1-1/2 cups liquid

1 lb. cooked

2 cups, cooked or raw

Rice Mixes

Tortellini

White Rice

Brown Rice

Pasta

Spaghetti

Bulgur Wheat

Noodles

Pasta Mixes

Cream of Chicken Soup

Cream of Mushroom Soup

Canned Broth

Pasta Sauce

Cheese Sauces

Cream of Potato Soup

Tomato Soup

Alfredo Sauce

Ground Beef

Chopped Beef

Frozen Meatballs

Chopped Chicken

Sliced Pork

Chopped Ham

Uncooked Shrimp

Canned Beans

Baby Carrots

Bell Peppers

Hash Brown Potatoes

Peas

Corn

Green Beans

Broccoli

Frozen Mixed Vegetables

 

 

Choose one ingredient from each column and combine them in a large skillet with a tight cover. This is a great way to use leftover meats and vegetables.

 

Bring the ingredients to a boil in a large skillet, then stir well, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until pasta or rice is tender and meat and vegetables are thoroughly heated. Sprinkle cheese over skillet just before serving. You can begin each skillet meal by sautéing some onion and garlic in a bit of oil, then adding the remaining ingredients and simmering until done.

Spam Fried Rice II

Spam Fried Rice II

Spam Fried Rice

 

3 C. day-old cooked short-grain rice, at room temperature

1 T. sesame oil

Neutral oil, for fining

Half 12-ounce can Spam Less Sodium, cut into 1/8 by 1-inch matchsticks

1 C. finely diced carrots (about 1 1/2 carrots)

1 C. finely diced Maui or yellow onion (about ¥2 onion)

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 C. chopped green onions, white and green parts (about 4 green onions)

1 tsp. very finely grated garlic (about 2 cloves)

1 T. soy sauce (shovu)

1 T. oyster sauce

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

4 to 6 fried eggs, for serving (optional)

 

In a bowl, combine the rice and sesame oil, toss to coat, and set aside. Set a wide pan or wok over medium heat and coat the bottom with 1 to 2 tsp. neutral oil. Fry the Spam for a minute on each side, or until all sides are lightly crisped and brown. Transfer the Spam to a small bowl and set aside. Turn the heat to medium-low and coat the bottom of the pan with 1 to 2 T. neutral oil. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the carrots and Maui onion and stir-fry with a wooden spoon or spatula until mostly translucent, 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper before increasing the heat to medium. Add 1/2 C. of the green onions and cook for another minute to soften them. Add the rice, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and Spam, mixing and breaking up the rice with the spoon. Stir-fry until the rice is hot and has absorbed all of the liquids, 4 to 5 minutes. Taste and add more salt and pepper, if needed. Create a well in the middle of the rice and pour in the eggs. Let sit for 30 seconds before scrambling the mixture, using the wooden spoon, for another 30 seconds. Let sit for 30 seconds more, then scramble again, this time bringing in the walls of rice and incorporating them into the eggs. Repeat this process until the eggs have been thoroughly scrambled and incorporated. Turn off the heat, leaving the pan to sit until you are ready to serve. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 C. green onions and serve, topping each serving with a fried egg, if desired.

Mom’s Wantons

Mom’s Wantons

1 pkg. Wanton Wrappers
Beaten Egg
1/2 lb. Ground pork
1/2 C. finely chopped Shrimp
2 T. Soy Sauce
4 T. Chicken broth or water
1/2 tsp. Salt
1 1/2 tsp. minced Green Onion
2 tsp. Sherry

Mix all ingredients except wonton wrappers and egg. Place small amount of meat filling (rounded teaspoon or so, you want to be able to close the wanton without seepage) on wanton square.  Spread a little beaten egg along two sides of the wanton wrapper, then fold over to make a triangle. Deep fry until wanton begins to become brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels. Serve with hot catsup (mix catsup with powdered hot mustard to taste) or won ton dipping sauce.

Note: I don’t use chicken broth or sherry.  Instead I use mirin and rice vinegar and a small splash of sesame oil.  I also mix in finely grated ginger and garlic.  Instead of hot catsup, I make a dipping sauce similar to something for potstickers with soy, chili oil, a little rice wine vinegar, and some minced green onion tops for color.

 

Apple and Pork Stir-fry with Ginger

Apple and Pork Stir-fry with Ginger

Apple and Pork Stir-fry with Ginger

2 T. peach jam, preferably fruit sweetened

2 T. reduced sodium soy sauce

2 T. water

1/2 tsp. cornstarch

1 1â/2 tsp. dark toasted sesame oil

1 T. finely minced fresh ginger root

1/2 pound (8 ounces) pork tenderloin, cut into thin strips

1 1/2 tsp. canola oil

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper

1 can (8 ounces) sliced water chestnuts, drained

2 firm apples, such as Fuji or Gala, cut into one-inch pieces

1/2 cup scallions, thinly sliced

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups steamed brown rice or whole wheat angel hair pasta

 

In small bowl, combine jam, soy sauce, water and cornstarch. Set aside. In large non-stick skillet, heat sesame oil over medium high heat. Add pork and ginger and stir-fry until pork is browned and just cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer pork and ginger to bowl with slotted spoon. Add canola oil to skillet. Stir-fry peppers, water chestnuts, and apples until peppers are crisp tender, about 3 minutes. Add pork back to skillet along with scallions. Stir-fry 30 seconds. Add jam mixture. Continue to stir-fry 30 seconds to one minute, or until sauce thickens. Season to taste with black pepper. Serve over brown rice or whole wheat pasta.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 355

Fat: 8g

Fiber: 10g

Mom’s Bacon, Sauerkraut, and Noodle Hot Dish

Mom’s Bacon, Sauerkraut, and Noodle Hot Dish

1 lb. bacon  

1 bag egg noodles

1 can undrained sauerkraut

 

Cut bacon up into small pieces and then fry to a crisp. Cook egg noodles according to the directions on the bag, drain and then mix, along with the bacon and all of the bacon grease, with the can of undrained sauerkraut. Bake in a casserole (hot dish) dish at 350 degrees until thoroughly heated.

Sweet and Sour Wild Boar

Sweet and Sour Wild Boar

Sweet and Sour Wild Boar

1/2 lb. (680 g) wild boar roast, cut into 2-inch pieces

1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine

2 T. (30 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

1 small yellow onion, cut into fine dice

1 carrot, cut into fine dice

1 stalk celery, cut into fine dice

Kosher salt

2 fresh bay leaves

1 clove garlic, smashed

1 28-ounce (793 g) can whole plum tomatoes, chopped with their juices

1 T. granulated sugar

1 1/2 (22 ml) T. white wine vinegar

 

Put the boar and red wine in a 4-quart pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook to remove some of the gaminess of the meat, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the meat and discard the wine. In an 11-inch straight-sided pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and a pinch of salt; cook until the vegetables are tender and just beginning to brown, about 6 minutes. Add the bay leaves and garlic and cook until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the boar plus a generous pinch of salt and cook for 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover partially, and cook at a very slow simmer until the meat is very tender, 2 hours. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of water to it. Stir in the sugar and the vinegar and season to taste with salt. Serve on a large platter.

Curly Tagliatelle with Braised Boar and Olives

Curly Tagliatelle with Braised Boar and Olives

Curly Tagliatelle with Braised Boar and Olives

 

2 T. (30 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

1 yellow onion, finely chopped

1 stalk celery, finely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 lb. (680 g) wild boar shoulder roast, boned, trimmed of fat, and cut into 1/4-inch pieces

1/2 C. (118 ml) dry red wine

2 C. (473 ml) homemade or low-sodium beef broth

2 fresh bay leaves

2 sprigs flat-leaf parsley

1 sprig rosemary

1/2 C. small green olives, pitted and halved

1/2 C. small black olives, pitted and halved

1 lb. (453 g) mafaldine pasta (or tagliatelle)

 

Heat the oil in a 12-inch straight-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and a generous pinch of salt; cook until the vegetables are tender and beginning to brown, 6 to 8 minutes. Season the wild boar meat all over with */2 tsp. salt and 14 tsp. pepper. Add the wild boar to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned all over, 5 to 7 minutes. Pour in the red wine, bring to a simmer, and then reduce by half. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Add the bay leaves, parsley, and rosemary, cover the pan, and cook until the meat is fork-tender, 45 to 50 minutes. Stir the olives into the sauce and cook until warmed through. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Drop the pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 14 C. of water and then drain the pasta. Toss the pasta together with the sauce, adding any reserved pasta water as needed if the sauce seems dry.

Reginetti with Savoy Cabbage and Pancetta

Reginetti with Savoy Cabbage and Pancetta

Reginetti with Savoy Cabbage and Pancetta

12 ounces reginetti or other short pasta

Kosher salt

2 T. olive oil

6 ounces thinly sliced pancetta (Italian bacon)

1 small head of savoy cabbage, tough ribs removed, leaves torn

¼ C. (½ stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves

½ ounces Parmesan, finely grated (about ½ C.)

Freshly ground black pepper

Poppy seeds (for serving)

 

Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until very al dente (pasta will still be opaque and very firm in the center). Drain pasta, reserving 1½ C. pasta cooking liquid. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium and cook pancetta, turning halfway through, until brown and crisp, about 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Add cabbage to skillet and cook undisturbed until deeply browned in some spots, about 3 minutes. Toss, then cook undisturbed until deeply browned in other spots, about 2 minutes. Continue to cook and toss until cabbage is charred in some spots and bright green in others and beginning to wilt. Add butter and thyme and cook, tossing, until butter begins to brown, about 2 minutes. Add Parmesan, pasta, and 1 C. pasta cooking liquid and cook, tossing often and adding more cooking liquid to help finish cooking pasta, until pasta is al dente and sauce is thickened and emulsified and coats pasta, about 5 minutes. Add pancetta and toss to combine; taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with poppy seeds.

One Pot Pizza Pasta Bake

One Pot Pizza Pasta Bake

One Pot Pizza Pasta Bake

 

1 T. olive oil

8 ounces spicy Italian sausage, casing removed

1/2 C. mini pepperoni, divided

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. dried basil

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

8 ounces rotini pasta

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 C. shredded mozzarella cheese

2 T. chopped fresh parsley leaves

 

Preheat oven to broil. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium high heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, making sure to crumble the sausage as it cooks; drain excess fat. Stir in 1/4 C. pepperoni until heated through, about 1 minute. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil garlic powder, pasta and 1 1/2 C. water; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked through, about 12-14 minutes. Remove from heat; top with mozzarella and remaining 1/4 C. pepperoni. Place into oven and cook until melted and golden brown, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.

Pot-roasted Pork in White Wine with Garlic, Fennel, and Rosemary

Pot-roasted Pork in White Wine with Garlic, Fennel, and Rosemary

Pot-roasted Pork in White Wine with Garlic, Fennel, and Rosemary

 

1 (3 lb./1.5 kilogram) pork loin, off the bone and skin removed

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 T. fennel seeds

2 to 3 large knobs butter

Olive oil

8 cloves garlic, skin left on

1 handful fresh rosemary, leaves picked

4 bay leaves

1 fennel bulb, sliced

1/2 (750 ml) bottle Chardonnay

 

This pork recipe takes me about 5 minutes to prepare and get in the oven, so it’s nice and quick as well as being unbelievably light, fresh and tasty. Also, pot-roasting the pork as opposed to straight roasting gives you a lovely natural sauce made with the meat juices and the wine. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). With 2 or 3 bits of string, tie up your pork loin, do this any way you like. It doesn’t have to be fussy, you just want to keep the meat in a snug shape while it’s cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper, then roll the meat in the fennel seeds until covered. In a casserole pan or roasting tray, fry the meat for a couple of minutes in half the butter and a little olive oil, until nice and golden. Throw in the garlic, herbs, fennel, and wine, then cover the tray loosely with some wet greaseproof paper and cook until an inserted meat thermometer reaches 150 degrees F. As the pork loin is off the bone it cooks very quickly. Remove from the oven and allow the meat to rest on a plate. Then, without using any more heat, finish off your sauce in the pan, scraping any goodness off the bottom and adding the rest of the butter. Remove any large bits.

Bavarian-Style Pork Belly with Braised Red Cabbage and Spaetzle

Bavarian-Style Pork Belly with Braised Red Cabbage and Spaetzle

Bavarian-Style Pork Belly with Braised Red Cabbage and Spaetzle

1-1/2 to 2 lb. pork belly, fat side scored

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1/4 C. Bavarian seasoning

2 onions, sliced

2 Granny Smith apples, cut into eighths

4 sprigs fresh rosemary

3 T. olive oil

1-1/2 T. white balsamic vinegar

 

Rub pork belly with salt, pepper and Bavarian seasoning: refrigerate overnight, uncovered. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. On bottom of roasting pan, scatter onion, apples and rosemary: pour on oil and vinegar. Place pork belly on top; roast uncovered for 1 -1/2 to 2 hours, until tender and golden brown. If excessive browning occurs during cooking, cover loosely with aluminum foil. Set aside and keep warm, reserving cooking juices.

 

Cabbage

1/4 lb. bacon, diced

1 T. olive oil

1/2 C. red onions, diced small

1 head red cabbage, shredded

1 red delicious apple, diced medium

3 sprigs fresh thyme

1/2 C. white wine vinegar

1/3 C. brown sugar

1 T. whole grain mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Render bacon in heavy-bottomed saucepan until lightly brown and crisp. Add olive oil and onions; cook until translucent. Add remainder of ingredients; stir until well combined. Cover and cook over low heat for about 30 minutes, or until cabbage is tender. Adjust to desired taste.

 

Spaetzle

 

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 C. milk

1-1/2 C. all-purpose flour

2 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 C. mixed chopped herbs (parsley, chives and/or dill)

1/2 C. clarified butter

 

Bring large pot of salted water to boil over medium heat. In a stainless steel or glass bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well blended. In separate large bowl, combine flour and salt; make well in center. With a fork, gradually combine the egg mixture with flour. Mix until just combined. Stir in herbs. Place batter in colander over boiling water. Using a rubber or baker’s spatula, push batter through colander into boiling water. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes or until firm. Scoop spaetzle into ice bath to stop cooking; when cold, drain and dry. Heat butter to almost smoking; add spaetzle and sauté until lightly browned and crispy. Divide cooked pork belly into six equal portions. Portion out braised cabbage onto serving plates; top with pork. Garnish with hot spaetzle. Drizzle with small amount of cooking juice from pork.

Potato Salad with Sweet Sausages and Mushrooms

Potato Salad with Sweet Sausages and Mushrooms

3 pounds (16-20) small red potatoes, quartered

2 pounds sweet Italian sausages

1/2 C. dry red wine

2/3 C. plus 2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound mushrooms, sliced

1 tsp. fresh lemon juice

1 T. Original TABASCO® brand Pepper Sauce, divided

3/4 C. chopped green onions

2 T. Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1/3 C. dry white wine

1/3 C. chicken stock or broth

 

Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water; cook over medium-high heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain. Cool to room temperature before slicing into 1/4-inch slices. Place potatoes in a large bowl. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F. Put sausages in a single layer in a baking dish and prick several times with a fork. Bake 15 minutes. Turn sausages and bake an additional 15 minutes. Add red wine to pan, turn sausages, and bake 8 minutes. Turn sausages once more and bake 7 minutes longer or until cooked through. Remove sausages to a dish and let cool. Cut into 1/2-inch slices and add to potatoes. In a large skillet, heat 2 T. of the olive oil. Add mushrooms and sauté over medium-high heat, stirring until they give up their liquid and most of it evaporates, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle on lemon juice and 1 1/2 tsp. of the TABASCO® Sauce. Add to potato mixture along with green onions and toss lightly to mix. In a food processor or blender, combine mustard, salt, pepper, white wine, stock, and remaining 1 1/2 tsp. TABASCO® Sauce. Turn on machine and slowly add remaining 2/3 C. olive oil. Pour dressing over potato mixture and toss to coat. Serve warm or at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate overnight.

Cold Noodles with Sesame Sauce

Cold Noodles with Sesame Sauce

1 pound(s) fresh egg noodles

2 tablespoon(s) sesame oil

1 tablespoon(s) dark soy sauce

2 eggs

1 pinch(s) salt

1 tablespoon(s) peanut or vegetable oil

 

Sesame Sauce:

2 tablespoon sesame seed paste, diluted with 3 tablespoons warm water

2 tablespoon dark soy sauce

2 clove garlic, finely chopped

2 scallions, finely chopped

1 tablespoon white rice vinegar

2 teaspoon sugar

2 teaspoon hot oil (chili oil)

1/2 teaspoon salt

 

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and shredded

1/2 pound roast pork, cut into 2-inch strips

 

Cook the noodles in a large pot of boiling water 4 to 5 minutes. Rinse under cold water and drain thoroughly. Add the sesame oil and soy sauce to the noodles and toss well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Beat the eggs with the salt and set aside for 10 minutes. Heat a scant teaspoon oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Pour in 1/4 of the beaten egg and make an egg sheet by swirling egg onto sides of wok. Lift up and flip over and let cook briefly on the other side. Repeat to make 3 more sheets. Let the egg sheets cool. Shred into 2-inch-long strips. Set aside. To make the Sesame Sauce: Mix the sesame seed paste, soy sauce, garlic, scallions, vinegar, sugar, hot oil, and salt in a small bowl. When it is time to serve, add the sauce to the noodles and toss well. Transfer the noodles to a large platter. Top with the egg strips, shredded cucumber, and roast pork and toss to mix. Variations: Shredded cold chicken can used instead of roast pork. You can also substitute bean sprouts and shredded Chinese cabbage for the cucumbers. From: Dim Sum Made Easy

Oregon Style Pork Chops with Pinot Noir and Cranberries, Oregon Hash with Wild Mushrooms, Greens, Beets, Hazelnuts and Blue Cheese, Charred Whole Grain Bread with Butter and Chives

Oregon Style Pork Chops with Pinot Noir and Cranberries, Oregon Hash with Wild Mushrooms, Greens, Beets, Hazelnuts and Blue Cheese, Charred Whole Grain Bread with Butter and Chives

4 (1 1/2-inch thick) boneless pork loin chops

Salt and pepper

4 T. extra-virgin olive oil, 3 turns of the pan

2 leeks

1 C. hazelnut or filbert nut pieces

1/2 C. dried sweetened cranberries

1 C. Pinot Noir (recommended: Willamette Valley Oregon)

1 C. chicken stock

1/2 stick butter, divided

2 shallots, thinly sliced

1 lb. crimini (baby portobello) mushrooms, cleaned and sliced

1/2 lb. shiitake mushroom caps, sliced

1 bunch kale, chopped, 4 to 5 C.

1 (15-oz.) can sliced beets, drained

8 oz. blue cheese crumbles (recommended: Oregon)

1 loaf crusty whole-grain bread

3 T. chopped chives

 

Preheat a large skillet over medium high heat. Season chops with salt and pepper. Add 2 T. extra-virgin olive oil to the hot skillet and the chops. Cook chops 3 to 4 minutes on each side. While they cook, split leeks lengthwise, slice in 1/2-inch half-moon pieces and wash vigorously under running water in a colander to release sand. Shake to dry. Preheat a second large skillet for your hash over medium-high heat. Add nuts to the skillet and brown 2 to 3 minutes then remove and reserve them. To chop skillet, add another T. extra and the leeks. Cook the leeks until tender, 5 minutes. Add cranberries and Pinot Noir to the pan. Scrape up the pan drippings and stir in chicken stock. When sauce comes up to a bubble, add the chops back to the pan and reduce heat to simmer. Finish cooking chops through, 10 minutes. To the hash skillet, add a T. extra-virgin olive oil and 1 T. butter. When butter melts into oil, add shallots then mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, then add kale. Wilt the kale into the pan and season with salt and pepper, to taste. When kale is hot and wilted, add beets and gently combine. Adjust seasonings. Preheat broiler. Pull chops from their sauce. Raise heat and bring back to a bubble. Cut off 4 thick slices of whole-grain bread. Char bread under broiler on each side while you finish the sauce. Add 2 T. butter to the sauce to give it gloss and weight and turn off heat. Pour sauce over the chops. Serve hash alongside the chops and top with crumbles of blue cheese and reserved nuts. Spread charred bread with remaining butter and sprinkle liberally with chopped chives.