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Category: Starches

Holiday Sage Dressing

Holiday Sage Dressing

Holiday Sage Dressing

2 loaves of bread, cubed

1 lb. of sweet sausage

1 tsp. of sage

2 chicken bouillon cubes

1/4 C. of Parmesan cheese

3 eggs

2 T. of parsley, chopped

1 small onion, chopped

2 sticks of celery, diced

Salt & pepper to taste

 

Put bread cubes in large bowl. Fry sausage and drain off excess grease. Dissolve bouillon cubes in 2 C. water. Add all ingredients to bread cubes and mix well. Stuff bird or spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with Pam. Fill with stuffing and bake at 350 degrees for about 1 hour.

Sourdough Bread, Fennel and Sweet Sausage Stuffing

Sourdough Bread, Fennel and Sweet Sausage Stuffing

Sourdough Bread, Fennel and Sweet Sausage Stuffing

1 1-lb. loaf sourdough bread, cut into 1/2- to 3/4-inch cubes (about 16 C.)

1 3/4 lb. sweet Italian sausages, casings removed

5 to 6 T. butter

2 1/2 fennel bulbs, chopped

1 1/4 lb. onions, chopped

1 T. fennel seeds

1 1/4 lb. firm but ripe Bosc pears, peeled, cored, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

2 large red bell peppers, chopped

2 tsp. dried thyme

2 tsp. dried marjoram

2 tsp. dried rubbed sage

3/4 C. dry white wine

3/4 C. (about) canned low-salt chicken broth

Chopped fennel fronds (optional)

 

Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread bread on 2 large rimmed baking sheets. Bake until just golden, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Transfer to very large bowl. Cook Italian sausage in large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up pieces with back of fork, about 12 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer to small bowl. Melt 4 T. butter in same large pot over medium-high heat. Add chopped fennel, onions and fennel seeds. Sauté until fennel and onions are tender and golden brown, about 15 minutes. Reduce heat to medium. Add pears, bell peppers and herbs. Sauté until pears and peppers are just tender, about 10 minutes. Add wine and boil until most liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. (Toasted bread cubes, sausage and fennel mixture can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover separately. Store bread at room temperature; refrigerate sausage and fennel mixture.) Add sausage and fennel mixture to bread cubes. Season stuffing to taste with salt and pepper.

 

To bake stuffing in turkey:

Loosely fill main turkey cavity with stuffing. Add enough broth to remaining stuffing to moisten lightly (about 1/4 to 1/2 C., depending on amount of remaining stuffing). Generously butter glass or ceramic baking dish. Spoon remaining stuffing into dish and dot remaining stuffing with 1 T. butter before baking in dish. Cover with buttered foil, buttered side down. Bake stuffing in dish alongside turkey until heated through, about 30 minutes. Uncover stuffing. Bake until top is just crisp and golden, about 15 minutes.

 

To bake all of stuffing in baking dish:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Generously butter 13x9x2-inch square glass or ceramic baking dish. Add enough broth to stuffing to moisten (about 3/4 C. to 1 1/2 C..) Transfer stuffing to prepared dish and dot stuffing with 2 T. butter before baking. Cover with buttered foil, buttered side down; bake until heated through, about 30 minutes. Uncover and bake until top is crisp and golden, about 20 minutes longer. Top with fennel fronds, if desired, and serve.

Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted Butternut Squash

1 large Butternut Squash 2 1/2 pounds or 8 cups, cubed

2 T. olive oil

6 cloves garlic minced

1 T. dried Italian seasoning

Salt + Pepper to taste

1/2 C. toasted pine nuts

Fresh chopped parsley and rosemary to garnish, optional

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside. Peel, seed and chop butternut squash into small cubes of approximately equal size (total amount should equal approximately 8 cups). Transfer butternut squash, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to a large mixing bowl. Toss well to combine. Arrange the butternut squash on the prepared baking sheet spread in single layer. Bake at 400 degrees F for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until fork tender and browning around the edges. Remove the squash from the oven and transfer to a large serving dish. Sprinkle with the toasted pine nuts and fresh chopped herbs, if desired.

Traditional Stuffing

Traditional Stuffing

Traditional Stuffing

 

1 pound Italian loaf (or French loaf), cut into 1 inch cubes

1/2 C. (1 stick) butter

1 C. onion, diced

1 C. celery, diced

2 T. sage, chopped

2 T. parsley, chopped

1 T. rosemary, chopped

1 T. thyme, chopped

salt and pepper to taste

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 C. chicken broth

 

Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 200F/90C until dried out, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat, add the onions and celery and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Add the sage and cook until fragrant, about a minute, before removing from heat. Mix the parsley, rosemary and thyme into the cooked veggies and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the egg into the broth before mixing into the veggies and gently tossing with the bread cubes. Place the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated 350F/180C oven until lightly golden brown on top, about 40 minutes. Tip: Bake the bread to dry it out a day ahead and leave it out overnight.

 

Option: Add 1 T. garlic to the pan along with the sage.

Option: Replace the fresh herbs with dried herbs using 1 tsp. dried herb in place of 1 T. of fresh.

Option: Replace the fresh herbs with 2 T. dried poultry seasoning.

Option: Add a diced apple to the pan along with the onions and celery!

Option: Add a diced pear to the pan along with the onions and celery!

Option: Add 1 C. diced fennel to the pan along with the onions and celery!

Option: Add 8 ounces diced mushrooms to the pan along with the onions and celery!

Option: Add cooked wild rice!

Option: Add 4 ounces cooked and crumbled Italian sausage!

Option: Add 4 ounces cooked diced chorizo!

Option: Add 4 ounces cooked diced andouille!

Option: Add 4 ounces cooked and crumbled bacon or pancetta!

Option: Add chopped chestnuts!

Option: Add chopped walnuts!

Option: Add raisins!

Option: Add dried cranberries!

Everyday Bread Dough

Everyday Bread Dough

Everyday Bread Dough

1 C. warm whole milk

1 packet instant dry yeast

1 tsp. honey

2 large eggs, beaten

4 tsp. salted butter, melted

3 1/2 to 4 C. all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

 

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the milk, yeast, honey, eggs, butter, 31/2 C. of flour, and the salt. Beat until the flour is completely incorporated, 4 to 5 minutes. If the dough seems sticky, add the remaining V2 C. of flour. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let sit at room temperature until doubled in size, about 1 hour. 3. At this point, the dough can be used as directed within any recipe of your choice.

7 Minute Crock Pot Bread

7 Minute Crock Pot Bread

7 Minute Crock Pot Bread

1 pkg. active dry yeast or instant yeast

1 T. honey

1 C. warm water

2 3/4 C. all-purpose white flour

1 T. white sugar

1 tsp. salt

2 T. olive oil

 

Parchment paper

3 paper towels

 

Mix together warm (not hot) water, yeast, and honey, and let sit for a minute for yeast to foam. Stir together flour, sugar, salt, and then mix with yeast mixture and olive oil.  Stir together with a wooden spoon. Knead for 5 minutes, either by hand or with a stand mixer and hook attachment. Do not short cut this time. Check the dough, it should be elastic, and not stick to your hands too much, and should form a nice ball. If this does not happen, knead a little longer until it reaches this stage. Line a crock pot with parchment and place ball of dough in center. Put paper towels over the top, and put the lid, very slightly ajar over that, this will help absorb some of the moisture so the top of your bread is not mushy and wet while the bottom is crispy and hard. Cook on high for an hour and a half, or until bottom is browned (You can just lift it out with the parchment to check how brown the bottom is) Remove from crock pot, put on a baking tray, and into a preheated oven set to broil on high. Broil 2-3 minutes or until you reach the desired golden brown.

Cacio e Pepe Mashed Potatoes

Cacio e Pepe Mashed Potatoes

Cacio e Pepe Mashed Potatoes

1 T. black peppercorns

5 pounds yukon gold potatoes

1/2 C. unsalted butter, cut into cubes, at room temperature

1 C. Pecorino Romano, divided

Kosher salt

1/2 C. buttermilk, shaken

1/4 C. heavy cream

 

In a small saucepan, set over medium heat, add the peppercorns. Toast for about 2 to 3 minutes, until fragrant. Pour the peppercorns into mortar and pestle. Alternatively, you could add it to a spice grinder or pepper grinder. Mash up the peppercorns until all crushed. Set aside. To Make the Potatoes: In a 4-quart Dutch Oven, fill it up about 3/4 of the way with cold water. Peel the potatoes and place them in the Dutch Oven and set it over medium-high heat. Bring the potatoes to a boil and then bring down the heat to medium-low. This should keep them at a nice, steady simmer. Cook until very soft, about 35 minutes. Give them a taste and make sure they’re VERY soft. Pour the potatoes into a colander and immediately run them under cool water. Then immediately run the potatoes through a ricer, in batches, into the Dutch Oven. Repeat this step until you’ve worked your way through all of the potatoes.

 

In the pot with the mashed potatoes, pour in the buttermilk, softened butter, half of the ground up pepper, a few pinches of salt and heavy cream; mix it all together until smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and cheese according to taste. I added about 2 tsp. of salt in total. To Serve: Melt 2 T. of butter in a small saucepan. Make some swoops in the tops of the potatoes. Pour the melted butter on top and then add a few pinches of freshly ground pepper and the remaining 1/4 C. of Pecorino Romano.

 

To Make Ahead & Reheat:  Make the recipe straight through and then allow to come to room temperature. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge up to 2 days ahead. When you’re ready to serve: Add a few T. of heavy cream to the bottom of a medium-sized pot and place it over medium-low heat. Add the cold potatoes and cover the pot. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes and then stir them. Cover the pot again and allow to warm up for about 3 to 4 minutes. Repeat until the potatoes are warm.

Herbed Barley and Lentils

Herbed Barley and Lentils

Herbed Barley and Lentils

1/2 C. chopped onions

2 cloves garlic, chopped

3 C. coconut water or water blended with a date

1 C. hulled barley*

1/4 C. lentils

1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 T. chopped fresh dill or 1 tsp. dried

1 T. finely chopped fresh chives or 1 tsp. dried

2 T. finely chopped fresh basil or 1/2 tsp. dried

 

In a large saucepan, sauté onions and garlic in a small amount of coconut water, about 5 minutes or until soft. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until barley and lentils are tender and water is absorbed (about 1 hour). * Hulled barley is barley that has been minimally processed to remove only the tough inedible outer hull. Do not use pearled barley; it receives additional processing and has a lower nutritional value.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 216

Fat: 1.2g

Fiber: 12.1g

Carbs: 43g

Cheesy Biscuits

Cheesy Biscuits

Cheesy Biscuits

These use coconut flour, so they are chewy and dense.

1/2 C. almond meal, hempseed meal or another nut meal

3 eggs

4 T. butter, melted

a good grind or two of salt

generous shake of chili flakes or paprika

2 C. grated Cheddar cheese

½ – 3/4 C. coconut flour, sifted

chopped cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, to serve

 

Preheat the oven to 4000 F and line a baking pan with parchment paper. Blend the almond meal, eggs, butter, salt, chili flakes and cheese. Add 1/2 C. of the coconut flour and knead the dough until moist and the consistency of Play-Doh. Add a little more flour if necessary. If the dough seems too dry, add another egg, extra melted butter or a little coconut water. Form the dough into walnut-sized balls and put on the pan. Flatten each ball until V2 in. thick (or less if you want thin crackers). Bake for 15 minutes, until golden and crisp, turning once. Serve with chopped cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.

Fresh Pasta with Lemon Cream

Fresh Pasta with Lemon Cream

Fresh Pasta with Lemon Cream

15 oz. low fat ricotta cheese

dash salt

1 tsp. grated lemon rind

1 tsp. nutmeg (I used only 1/2 tsp)

4 C. cooked pasta

 

Empty ricotta into blender or food processor, using the steel blade. Add salt. Process until all graininess disappears and ricotta has the texture of thick whipped cream. Flavor the mixture with lemon peel and nutmeg. Store in refrigerator. Drain the hot cooked pasta, then immediately return it to the saucepan it was cooked in.  Add the whipped ricotta. Toss until pasta is well coated with sauce. Can garnish with parmesan, fresh parsley or a few thin slices of pitted black olives

Pan Bread

Pan Bread

Pan Bread

2 C. warm water

1 T. sugar or honey

1 T. yeast

4 C. flour

2 tsp. salt

melted butter

 

In a bowl dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for a few minutes. Stir in flour and salt. Dough will still be sticky. Place in a greased bowl, cover and let rise until double in size. Grease a cookie sheet/jelly roll pan. Spread dough flat onto sheet with palm of hand. Put melted butter on top. (can also sprinkle Garlic Parmesan blend, herbs, or sesame seeds on top) Cover with waxed paper and let rise again. Bake 400 degrees for about 20 minutes. Cut into squares.

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

8 oz. multi-grain elbow macaroni

3 slices bacon, cut crosswise into 1/2″ thick pieces

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 large eggs

12 oz. canned evaporated milk

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

pinch fresh grated nutmeg

6 oz. (about 1 1/2 cup) shredded sharp white cheddar

2 oz. (about 1/2 cup) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 1/2 oz. (about 1/3 to 1/2 cup) fresh grated Parmesan cheese

 

Preheat oven to 475 degrees. In a large pot of boiling, salted water, stir in pasta and cook a couple minutes short of al dente, about 6 to 8 minutes depending on brand. Drain well and set aside. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, add bacon and place over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until the bacon is crisp, about 8 to 10 minutes. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook macaroni 6 minutes (it will be undercooked). Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Transfer bacon mixture using a slotted spoon to a paper-towel lined plate. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and evaporated milk. Add 1/2 tsp. salt, cayenne, nutmeg, cheeses and two to three tsp. bacon fat, if desired. Stir in cooked pasta and the cooked bacon and garlic mixture. Scoop mixture into an 8″ or 9″ baking dish coated with nonstick spray, spreading smooth with an off-set spatula. Place dish into the oven and bake until the sauce is bubbling at edges, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove and place on a wire rack to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Instant Pot Proofed, No Knead Bread

Instant Pot Proofed, No Knead Bread

Instant Pot Proofed, No Knead Bread

2 C. all-purpose flour

1 C. white whole wheat flour, or regular whole wheat flour

2 teaspoons kosher salt, not regular table salt

1/2 teaspoon yeast, I use fast rise yeast

1 1/2 C. lukewarm water

 

Whisk together flours, salt, and yeast in a bowl (one that will fit on the trivet in your instant pot, 1 1 ½ qt. glass pyrex bowl). Stir in water until dough comes together in a shaggy mass. Don’t stir it too much! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in your Instant Pot on the trivet set down inside. Set Instant Pot to the “yogurt” setting (about 3.5 hours). When the time is up, place a Dutch oven (or similar oven-proof pot) in your oven and set to 450 degrees. Turn dough out of bowl onto a well-floured surface. It will be very sticky, and you may need a spatula to scrape all of the dough from the bowl. Form dough into a ball with floured hands. Loosely cover the dough ball with plastic wrap while your oven preheats. When the oven reaches 450 degrees, carefully remove the pot from the oven, place a small piece of parchment paper on the bottom of the pot, and set the dough on top of the paper. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the off the lid and bake an additional 7-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Mashed White Beans with Spinach and Olives

Mashed White Beans with Spinach and Olives

Mashed White Beans with Spinach and Olives

 

1 T. olive oil

1 medium onion (diced)

4 cloves garlic (chopped)

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 C. vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

2 (15 ounce) cans white beans (drained and rinsed) (or 3 C. cooked beans, from 1 C. dry)

4 sprigs thyme (or 1/2 tsp. dry)

2 sprigs rosemary (or 1/2 tsp. dry)

2 sprigs oregano (or 1/2 tsp. dry)

1 bay leaf

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 C. vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1/4 C. kalamata olives (pitted and coarsely chopped)

1 (8 ounce) package fresh spinach (rinsed and coarsely chopped)

1/2 lemon (juice)

 

Heat the oil in a pan. Add the onion and sauté until lightly golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Add the garlic and pepper flakes and sauté until fragrant, about a minute. Add the broth, beans, herbs, salt and pepper and simmer. covered, until the beans start to break down, about 20 minutes. Remove the herbs and mash half of the beans. Add as much broth as needed to get the beans to your desired consistency.

Mix in the olives and the spinach. Cook until the spinach just wilts, remove from heat and hit it with a splash of lemon juice

ABM Picnic Pumpernickel Bread

ABM Picnic Pumpernickel Bread

ABM Picnic Pumpernickel Bread

 

1 1/8 C. warm water

1 1/2 T. vegetable oil

1/3 C. molasses

3 T. cocoa

1 T. caraway seed (optional)

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 1/2 C. bread flour

1 C. rye flour

1 C. whole wheat flour

1 1/2 T. vital wheat gluten (optional)

2 1/2 tsp. bread machine yeast

 

Directions In the bread machine pan, place all the ingredients in the order recommended by the manufacturer.  Set the Basic cycle and press Start.

 

Yield: 12 servings

Calories: 181

Fat: 2.6g

Carb: 34.8

Fiber:

Caramelized Fennel on Herbed Polenta

Caramelized Fennel on Herbed Polenta

Caramelized Fennel on Herbed Polenta

2 to 3 cups / 450 to 675 ml vegetable broth or water, as needed

1/2 cup / 85 g organic, non-GMO polenta

fine sea salt

1 large fennel bulb

knob of ghee or clarified butter

2 tablespoons raw fennel seeds

1/2 tablespoon pure maple syrup, or to taste

1/4 cup / 5g chopped mixed herbs, such as dill, chives, parsley

1/4 cup / 27 g grated Pecorino Romano cheese

cold-pressed olive oil

herb flowers for garnish

 

Heat the vegetable broth in a large saucepan until simmering. Slowly pour in the polenta in a steady stream, whisking all the while to prevent clumping. Add a few pinches of salt. Stir constantly for a couple minutes; then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring every 5 minutes or so, for 30 to 45 minutes (read the label on your polenta for cooking time approximations). If the polenta becomes too thick, add more broth or water and whisk until smooth The polenta is cooked when you rub a small amount of it between your fingers and it is no longer gritty, but instead creamy and smooth. While the polenta is cooking, cut the fennel bulb into thin vertical slices (from the top to the base). Heat the ghee in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the fennel slices to the skillet, making sure that they all come into contact with the surface of the skillet (not overlapping). Sprinkle with sea salt. Do not stir or move the fennel until it is golden on the bottom, 5 to 7 minutes. When all the pieces have browned, flip them onto the uncooked sides. When the underside has also browned, add a sprinkling of fennel seeds and the maple syrup, and let cook for 1 minute. Toss to coat, transfer the fennel to a plate. Season with more salt if needed. Add the chopped herbs and grated cheese to the polenta and give it a final stir. Whisk in a little more broth or water if necessary. To serve, scoop a portion of polenta onto a plate, then arrange the caramelized fennel on top. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Garnish with herb flowers if available.

LTS Crunchy Asian Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing

LTS Crunchy Asian Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing

LTS Crunchy Asian Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing

This tangle of noodles with a peanut dressing upgrade tastes great. If you like more heat, add another 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes. If you don’t like heat, leave it out.

 

1/2 C. peanut butter

3 T. tamari or other soy sauce

2 T. rice wine vinegar

1/2 tsp. light brown sugar

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes, or to taste

1/8 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 C. water

8 oz. rice vermicelli or ramen noodles

1 T. toasted sesame oil

1 (8-oz.) can Carrots, drained (You can use a shredded fresh carrot if you have some in your root cellar)

1 (8-oz.) can Straw Mushrooms, drained (sub 2/3 C. peas, if they are available)

1 (8-oz.) can water chestnuts, drained

1/4 C. dry-roasted peanuts

 

In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, tamari, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder, stirring to blend well. Add the water, stirring until smooth. Set aside. Soak the noodles in enough boiling water to cover until softened (if using rice noodles), otherwise cook according to package directions.. Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Toss with sesame oil to coat. Add the carrots, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and peanuts to the bowl with the noodles. Add the reserved peanut sauce, tossing gently to combine.

 

Pantry Friendly Brown Rice Fritters

Pantry Friendly Brown Rice Fritters

 

2 C. cooked brown rice

1/2 C. grated Parmesan

1 egg

1/2 tsp. salt

A couple of grinds of black pepper

1/2 C. flour

1/4 C. vegetable oil

 

Combine rice, cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into patties and place in refrigerator to chill. When ready to cook, dredge each patty in flour and cook in pre-heated oil, turning once to brown, three to four minutes per side.

Pantry Friendly Garlic, Anchovy, and Olive Spaghetti

Pantry Friendly Garlic, Anchovy, and Olive Spaghetti

Pantry Friendly Garlic, Anchovy, and Olive Spaghetti

3 to 6 cloves garlic

1 (12-ounce) can black olives

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Pinch red pepper flakes

1 pound dried spaghetti

1 (2-ounce) tin anchovy fillets in oil

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

red chili flakes, optional

Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. Meanwhile, finely chop 3 to 6 garlic cloves. Drain 1 (12-ounce) can black olives, then cut each olive in half crosswise. Heat 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat for a few minutes. Add the garlic and a pinch red pepper flakes and cook, stirring often, until the garlic starts to soften, 7 to 10 minutes. Add 1 pound dried spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package directions. Meanwhile, add the fillets from a (2-ounce) tin anchovy fillets in oil and some of their oil to the garlic mixture, stir to break the fillets up so they eventually melt into the oil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the olives cook for 5 minutes more to warm through. When the spaghetti is ready, drain and return it to the pot. Pour in the olive oil mixture and use tongs to thoroughly toss and incorporate the flavors. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm.

Pantry Friendly Caramelized Canned Potatoes

Pantry Friendly Caramelized Canned Potatoes

Pantry Friendly Caramelized Canned Potatoes

1 (16 ounce) can small potatoes

2 tsp. butter

1⁄2 C. brown sugar

 

Drain your potatoes well. Melt butter in a skillet. Stir in the brown sugar and heat, stirring until it bubbles. Wait until it turns brown and starts to caramelize. Add potatoes and cook 3-5 minutes (until heated through), stirring constantly.

LTS Bread Sticks

LTS Bread Sticks

LTS Bread Sticks

 

3 ½ C. Flour, Divided

2 T. Sugar

1 tsp. Salt

1 T. Yeast

1 1.2 C. Hot Water

Shortening for greasing pan

Toppings, optional – seeds, parmesan cheese, garlic salt, etc.

 

Add sugar, salt, and yeast to 2 cups flour and toss.  Stir in 1 ½ C. hot water.  Slowly add 1 ½ C. more flour.  Knead 10 minutes.  Allow to rise until double.  Roll into rectangle, cut in 1 inch strips.  Twist and place on greased baking sheet.

Canning Navy Beans (Easy Method)

Canning Navy Beans (Easy Method)

Canning Navy Beans (Easy Method)

1 1⁄2 cups dried navy beans

1⁄2 teaspoon salt (optional)

 

Put 1 1/2 Cups Dry Navy Beans in each quart jar. Add salt as desired. Fill Jar with boiling water to 1 inch from the top. Put on lids and rings. Place in canner with hot water. Pressure can at 10 lb. pressure for 20 minutes. Beans will continue to soften when you use them in either your soup or for baked beans.

Canning Baked Beans

Canning Baked Beans

Canning Baked Beans

8 pints

 

2 lb. dried navy beans

1⁄2 lb bacon

1 -3 large onion

2⁄3 cup brown sugar, packed

4 teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons mustard powder

1 cup orange juice (optional)

2⁄3 cup molasses (I use Grandma’s molasses which has a higher concentration of sugar)

 

Soak beans in 3 quarts of water, (make sure they are covered!) for 12-18 hours. Drain but do not rinse. Return beans to pot and cover with 3 quarts of fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat; cover and simmer until the bean skins begin to split. Drain the beans, reserve the liquid. Transfer the beans to a 4-quart or larger covered baking dish. Chop the bacon and onions. Add them to the beans. Combine the brown sugar, salt, mustard, and molasses in a large mixing bowl. Add 4 cups of the reserved bean liquid (or 1 cup orange juice and 3 cups water). Pour the sauce mixture over the beans. Don’t stir! Cover the beans and bake them in a preheated 350-degree oven for 3 to 3.5 hours. The consistency should be like a thick soup. Adds more liquid if the beans become too dry. While the beans are baking, prepare your canning jars and two-piece caps (lids and screw bands) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep the jars and lids hot. Ladle the hot beans into your prepared jars, leaving a 1-inch headspace. Release any air bubbles with a nonreactive tool, adding more beans as necessary to maintain the proper headspace. Wipe the jar rims; seal the jars with the lids and caps, hand tightening the bands. Process your filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure for 1 hr 20minutes (pints) or 1 hr 35minutes (quarts). After the pressure in the canner has returned to 0, wait an additional 10 minutes, and then carefully open the canner lid. Remove the hot jars with a jar lifter. Place them on a clean kitchen towel away from drafts. After the jars cool completely, test the seals. For added safety, boil the contents for 15 minutes before tasting or eating. (If you follow accurate canning protocol, that should not be necessary!). It takes a big pot to make this so if you want to double it, prepare two separate pots. My canner only holds 5 quarts so it can only hold a single batch anyways.

Canning Cuban Black Beans

Canning Cuban Black Beans

Canning Cuban Black Beans

2 lb. dried black beans

2 cups onions, chopped

1 cup bell pepper, chopped

6 teaspoons garlic, chopped

1 1⁄2 tablespoons salt

1 1⁄2 tablespoons ground cumin

1 tablespoon oregano

1⁄4 cup cider vinegar

1⁄2 lb salt pork

 

Sort dry beans. Soak overnight in water. Drain beans, add new water covering by 2″, and bring to a boil. When boiling begins, remove from heat and set aside. Sauté onion, pepper, and garlic in olive oil until onion is glassy. Add remaining spices, salt and vinegar to the sauté pot. Sterilize 8-pint Mason Jars. Add 1/4 cup of sauté mixture to each jar. Chop Salt pork into small pieces and divide into eight “piles”. Put one “pile” of salt pork into each jar. Add 1 slightly heaping cup of black beans to each jar. This should leave about 1 1/2″ headspace in jar. Do not overfill with beans. They expand a lot during processing. Overfilling will cause jars to leak in canner. Top off each jar with bean juice, leaving 3/4″ headspace. Put of lids and process 1 hour 5 minutes at 10 psi. After processing, remove from heat and allow canner to return to ambient pressure of its own accord. Remove and cool jars. Needs to age a month or so to blend flavors. When serving, it is normal to add a bit of water, since water boils out during processing. Serve ladled over rice and add a dollop of sour cream.

LTS Whole Grain Bread with Barley Flour

LTS Whole Grain Bread with Barley Flour

LTS Whole Grain Bread with Barley Flour

Good, heavy, dense bread for open face sandwiches and fancy toast.

1 teaspoon active dry yeast

1 1/2 cups warm water

2 tablespoons honey

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 1/2 cups barley flour

2 to 4 cups whole wheat flour, divided

1 tablespoon shortening,, melted (butter is better flavor, if it’s on hand)

In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water and set aside for 10 to 15 minutes, or until foamy. Stir in the honey and salt until incorporated. Using a standing mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the barley flour, 2 cups of the whole wheat flour, yeast mixture, and the butter for 5 to 6 minutes on medium slow, or until all the flour is incorporated. Remove the dough from the mixer and put it on a well-floured (with whole wheat flour) work surface. Knead for 5 to 8 minutes, until the dough is elastic and smooth. Add as much whole wheat flour as necessary, but don’t incorporate more than another 2 cups here. The dough will be tacky to the touch. Place the dough in a large bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp dish towel, and set in a warm spot until it doubles in size, usually about 2 to 4 hours. Punch down the dough and place it in a loaf pan (approximately 9 inches by 5 inches). Cover with plastic wrap or a damp dish towel and let the dough rise a second time, until it hits the top of the pan, usually another 1 to 2 hours. (If you do not have a loaf pan, free-form a batard-shaped loaf, put it on a sheet pan, and cover as directed.) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Place the loaf pan on the center rack and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes, or until the bread browns lightly. The loaf should fall easily from the pan when tapped and sound hollow when you knock on the bottom. Cool slightly before serving.  PANTRY NOTE: When possible, store baked whole grain bread in a plastic bag in your fridge, where it will keep for about two weeks. If the bread turns stale, slice it thin and bake for 7 to 10 minutes at 350 degrees for a crispy homemade crostini. You can also store baked bread in a plastic bag in the freezer, where it will keep for two to three months.

Winter Squash Gratin

Winter Squash Gratin

Winter Squash Gratin

Winter Squash, such as Butternut or Acorn

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 T. minced fresh parsley

1 tsp. minced fresh sage

3 eggs

1/2 C. low-fat milk

2 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated (1/2 C.)

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 ounce Parmesan cheese, grated (1/4 C.)

 

Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Cover a baking sheet with foil and brush lightly with olive oil. Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds and stringy membranes, brush the cut sides with olive oil and lay cut side down on the foil-covered baking sheet. Bake 40 minutes, or until soft enough to pierce easily with a knife. Remove from the heat and allow to cool, then peel and either mash with a fork, puree in a food processor fitted with the steel blade, or finely dice. You should have about 2 C. of pureed or finely diced squash. Turn the oven down to 375ºF and oil a 2-quart gratin or baking dish with olive oil. Heat the remaining oil over medium heat in a medium heavy skillet and add the onion. Cook, stirring, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds to a minute. Stir in the parsley and sage, and squash, and remove from the heat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Beat the eggs in a large bowl and whisk in the milk. Add 1/2 tsp. salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir in the squash mixture and the Gruyère. Taste and adjust seasonings. Scrape into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the Parmesan over the top. Bake 30 to 40 minutes, until lightly browned on the top and sizzling. Serve hot, warm, or room temperature.

Home-Style Butterbeans

Home-Style Butterbeans

Home-Style Butterbeans

5 bacon slices, diced

1 small onion, minced

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1 (16-oz.) package frozen butterbeans

1/4 cup butter

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon cracked pepper

 

Cook bacon and onion in a large Dutch oven over medium heat 5 to 7 minutes. Add brown sugar, and cook, stirring occasionally, 1 to 2 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Stir in butterbeans and butter until butter is melted and beans are thoroughly coated. Stir in 12 cups water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, 2 hours or until beans are very tender and liquid is thickened and just below top of beans. Stir in salt and pepper. Home-Style Lima Beans: Substitute 1 (16-oz.) package frozen baby lima beans for butterbeans. Proceed with recipe as directed.

Parsnip and Thyme Bread

Parsnip and Thyme Bread

Parsnip and Thyme Bread

1 tablespoon canola or sunflower oil

1 large onion, sliced

1 C. plus 2 tablespoons self-rising flour

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1/4 C. grated Parmesan, hard goat cheese, or sharp Cheddar

1 C. grated parsnip

Freshly ground black pepper

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk

 

Preheat the oven to 35O°F. Heat the oil in a frying pan, add the onion, and cook gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly colored. Remove from the heat and cool slightly.

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, thyme, cheese, grated parsnip, and some pepper. Add the onion, followed by the egg and 2 tablespoons of milk, then mix to form a soft dough, adding the extra milk if needed. Don’t overwork the dough; just bring it together with a little light kneading. Shape into a round and place on an oiled baking sheet. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the loaf is golden and makes a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. Let cool for a few minutes on a wire rack, then slice and serve while still warm.

Instant Pot Dump and Start Alfredo

Instant Pot Dump and Start Alfredo

Instant Pot Dump and Start Alfredo

 

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 tsp minced garlic dried

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 lb dry linguine noodles broken in half

3/4-1 cup parmesan cheese shredded

 

Add the broth, cream, garlic, salt, pepper and noodles to the instant pot in that order. DO NOT STIR, but make sure all noodles are covered. If you need to move some noodles around, that’s okay. Set your Instant Pot to Manual for 6 minutes (I like my noodles with a little bite to them, if you like yours softer I’d recommend cooking for a minute or two longer) and then let it naturally release its pressure for an additional 6 minutes then quick release. Let the noodles and sauce sit for a minute or so. This is very important. Your cheese will not melt into the sauce if it doesn’t cool for a minute or two. Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese. It’s ready to eat, Enjoy!

Dump and Start Instant Pot Creamy Ziti

Dump and Start Instant Pot Creamy Ziti

Dump and Start Instant Pot Creamy Ziti

1 1/2 cup chicken broth

1  cup heavy cream

1 tsp minced garlic dried

salt and pepper to taste

8 oz dry ziti pasta

1 cup red pasta sauce

1 cup parmesan cheese shredded

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded

 

Add the broth, cream, garlic, salt, pepper and noodles to the instant pot in that order. DO NOT STIR, but make sure all noodles are covered. If you need to move some noodles around, that’s okay. Set your Instant Pot to Manual for 6 minutes. Let it naturally release its pressure for an additional 6 minutes then quick release. Add the red pasta sauce to the Instant Pot and give it a stir. SLOWLY add in the cheese while stirring. The cheese will melt and thicken the sauce. The sauce will also thicken as it cools.

Enjoy! Recipe Notes:  This is a very saucy dish- If you like yours with less sauce, just cut back on the red pasta sauce at the end.

Palermo Pasta with Anchovies, Raisins, and Pine Nuts

Palermo Pasta with Anchovies, Raisins, and Pine Nuts

Palermo Pasta with Anchovies, Raisins, and Pine Nuts

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

3 Tablespoons olive oil

¼ cup pine nuts

¼ raisins

3 Tablespoons tomato purée

2 ounces red wine

6 salt-packed anchovy fillets (or 8 from an oil tin)

½ pound dried pasta (in this case you really do want to splurge on a “fancier” pasta but the type is less important – margarita, bucatini, spaghetti, fettuccine all work well)

homemade breadcrumbs

 

Heat oil in large, deep skillet over medium-low heat. Fry garlic slowly. Once garlic is golden brown, add raisins, pine nuts, and anchovies. Continue frying, stirring regularly, for 2 minutes. Add tomato purée and wine and stir well until combined. Meanwhile, cook the pasta until al dente. Try to time it so the pasta is done at about the same time as the sauce. (Serious Italian cooks tell you that rinsing pasta in cold water ruins it, but I’ve been known to do it quite frequently. I’m working on my timing.) Add the pasta to the sauce and stir until incorporated. Serve garnished with breadcrumbs (they’re missing in the picture below, but the crunch they add is really essential!).

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits

 

2 cups sifted flour

3 tsp. baking powder

3/4 tsp. baking soda

¾ tsp. salt

4 T. softened lard, butter or shortening

¾ cup buttermilk

 

Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Sift flour once, then combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, sifting together into a large mixing bowl. Cut soft butter or shortening into dry ingredients with a fork or pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Blend in buttermilk slowly until dough is firm (amount needed may vary). Turn out on a lightly floured board and knead gently until surface of dough is smooth. Roll or pat out to l/2-inch thickness. Dip biscuit cutter in flour then cut out biscuits and place on a lightly floured and greased baking sheet so that biscuits are touching each other. Brush top of biscuits with melted butter and bake until golden brown (approximately 10 to 12 minutes) in 425 degree oven. Makes 18 biscuits.

Ciabatta Dressing with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

Ciabatta Dressing with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

Ciabatta Dressing with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

1 pound loaf Ciabatta bread

1 pound broccoli rabe

1  pound Italian Sweet Sausage, casings removed

2 tablespoon olive oil

2 red onions, diced

3/4 cup diced celery

1/2 cup chopped parsley

1/3 cup shaved parmesan cheese

3 eggs

2 1/4 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup white wine or dry vermouth

butter for baking dish and foil

Kosher salt

pepper

 

Time-Saving Tip:  Cook the broccoli rabe in advance, cool and store until ready to continue.  Prepare the stuffing a day in advance and bring to room temperature before baking.

 

Trim the ends off of the broccoli rabe, rinse well. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.  Have a colander resting in a bowl nearby so you can scoop the cooked broccoli rabe into the colander when ready. Also, set up a large bowl with cold water and some ice to transfer the cooked vegetable. Add the broccoli rabe to the pot; stir it. Cook for about 3 minutes until nearly tender, don’t overcook. Using tongs, transfer the broccoli rabe to the colander. Let drain and then transfer to a bowl of ice water, this will stop the broccoli rabe from overcooking. Cut the broccoli rabe into 1-inch pieces. If you’re not using right away, make sure to drain well and store to use later.  Remove the sausage from the casing and transfer to a nonstick pan with two tablespoons of olive oil.  Sauté while breaking up with a wooden spoon, until the sausage is no longer pink. Add the onions and celery, season with salt and pepper.  Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the meat starts to brown.  Combine the broccoli rabe with the mixture, sprinkle with more salt and pepper and cook another two minutes. Pour the wine in the pan and bring to a boil. Simmer until most of the liquid is gone.  Set aside and cool to room temperature. While the mixture cools, combine the eggs and chicken broth. Cut the bread into roughly 1 inch- 1 1/2-inch cubes and transfer to a large bowl. Once the sausage mixture has completely cooled, add it to the bread and toss to combine. Then stir in the cheese, parsley, and season with salt and pepper.  Finally, pour in the egg mixture and gently coat all of the dressing. Transfer the dressing to a buttered casserole dish.  Tightly cover with foil. At this point, you can store the stuffing in the refrigerate overnight. Please remove it from the refrigerator at least an hour before baking. Place the casserole dish in a preheated 350-degree oven for 30 minutes. Remove the cover and bake another 10 minutes.

Avocado-Lime Black Beans

Avocado-Lime Black Beans

Avocado-Lime Black Beans

One 15-ounce can black beans

1/2 lime, juiced

1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

1 small shallot, diced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 avocado, to serve

 

Drain the beans thoroughly. Toss with the lime juice, cilantro leaves, diced shallot, and ground cumin. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Peel and slice an avocado, and serve the beans at room temperature, with 1/2 avocado on top of each serving.  The beans will last for several days in the fridge. You can take a helping of beans in your lunchbox, along with sliced avocado that has been tightly wrapped to protect against browning.

Dandelion, Cannellini, Potatoes & Roasted Red Peppers

Dandelion, Cannellini, Potatoes & Roasted Red Peppers

Dandelion, Cannellini, Potatoes & Roasted Red Peppers

1 bunch of dandelion greens

4 medium sized potatoes, chopped into 2 inch chunks

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1-15 ounce can of cannellini beans

¼ cup roasted red peppers, chopped

1 Tablespoon parsley, chopped

¼ cup Parmesan cheese

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dandelion greens and boil for 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and roughly chop. In the meantime, also boil potatoes for 10 minutes. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large sauté pan. Sauté potatoes until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 minutes. Add chopped dandelion greens and sauté for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Add the cannellini beans, roasted red peppers, salt and pepper to taste and cook for another 5 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley and serve.

Quick Sides

Quick Sides

Quick Sides

Organic Baked Beans

 

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Add l tablespoon olive oil to a large skillet. Swirl around l halved garlic clove, cut side down, to infuse the oil. Remove the garlic clove. Add a shake of red pepper flakes and 12 ounces of fresh spinach. Stir as the mound of leaves gradually wilts way more than you ever think it will. Add a hefty pinch of salt and black pepper. Snip the spinach leaves with kitchen scissors while still in the skillet.

 

Green Beans with Toasted Almonds and Mint

In a large frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and l tablespoon unsalted butter over medium heat. When the butter has melted, add cup slivered almonds and cook for 2 minutes, or until they darken slightly in color. Add 2 cups trimmed green beans and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a generous squeeze of lemon juice and a few pinches of salt and remove to a platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh mint.

 

Tomato and Avocado Salad

Halve l avocado, remove the pit, peel, and cut into chunks. In a medium bowl, toss with about 1V2 cups halved grape tomatoes, 3 chopped scallions (white and light green parts only), a generous drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper, a spritz of lime juice, and chopped fresh cilantro to taste.

 

White Beans and Spinach

In a medium skillet, sauté a halved garlic clove, cut side down, in a few glugs of olive oil. Let it infuse the oil for a minute, then remove. Add 2 tablespoons chopped onions (or shallots or scallions—white and light green parts only) and a shake of red pepper flakes and cook until the onions are soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in l can of rinsed and drained white beans (such as Great Northerns or cannellini). Add a handful of thawed and well-squeezed frozen spinach, lightly mashing the beans and spinach together. Add salt and black pepper and stir. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan.

 

Sugar Snap Peas and Radish Salad

In a medium bowl, toss together 2 cups of the sweetest sugar snap peas you can find (trim off the ends if it’s not too big of a pain); l radish, sliced into thin coins; V4 cup chopped fresh mint; a squeeze of lime juice; sea salt; about 1 tablespoon chopped scallions (white and light green parts only); and a tiny drizzle of olive oil. This is best in the spring when the snap peas are peaking.

 

Corn with Butter and Cotija Cheese (or Parmesan)

Boil shucked sweet com for 5 minutes. Spread butter on the corn while the corn is still hot and sprinkle with cotija or Parmesan cheese. If it is peak com season, forget the cheese and eat boiled corn on the cob with butter and salt only. Anything else is, obviously, blasphemy.

 

Quick Creamed Spinach

Thaw a box or bag of frozen spinach by placing it in a colander and running warm water over it for a few minutes. Press down on the spinach to squeeze out all the liquid. In a small frying pan over medium heat, add l tablespoon olive oil and small onion (chopped), salt, black pepper, and a few red pepper flakes (optional, as always). After 5 minutes, add the spinach and toss with the onions until the spinach is heated through. Sprinkle in 1 to 2 teaspoons flour and stir. Add Vs to V2 cup milk (nonfat, 1%, 2%, whole … any kind but chocolate!), depending on how creamy you like your creamed spinach, and a pinch of freshly ground nutmeg. Stir until heated through.

 

Green Beans with Ginger and Garlic

Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a large skillet set over medium heat, along with 2 teaspoons peeled, minced fresh ginger, 3 to 4 chopped scallions (white and light green parts only), a shake of red pepper flakes, and salt and black pepper. Cook until the ginger and scallions are soft and aromatic, about 1 minute. Add 3 cups trimmed green beans (or haricots verts) and 1 minced garlic clove. Cook, uncovered, until the green beans are tender but still crispy, about 4 minutes.

 

Buttered Peas with Mint

In a large skillet, melt 2 to 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1V2 cups thawed frozen peas. (You can run them under warm water to accelerate the thawing process; just try to dry them as much as possible before proceeding.) Heat until w armed through. Remove from the heat and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint and salt to taste.

 

Roasted Cauliflower and Broccoli

Preheat the oven to 4OO°F. Separate l head of cauliflower and l head of broccoli into florets. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the florets in olive oil to lightly coat. Season with a shake of red pepper flakes and salt and black pepper to taste. Spread out on the baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, until the vegetables look crispy but not burnt. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the vegetables and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan, if desired.

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

2 C. mashed potatoes

1 egg

4 garlic cloves, finely minced

3 T. all-purpose flour

1 C. of parmesan + 1/2 C. for the coating

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper

Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

 

In a large bowl add the mashed potatoes, egg, 1 C. parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and 3 T. all-purpose flour; mix until combined and smooth. Place 1/2 C. parmesan in a shallow dish. Divide the potato mixture into eight equal portions and form 8 patties (you can use a ring mold to shape the patties). Roll the patties in the parmesan to coat. In a large skillet over medium heat, using cooking oil or butter, cook patties until golden on both sides. Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and more parmesan; serve hot. Enjoy!

Creamy Cornbread Casserole

Creamy Cornbread Casserole

Creamy Cornbread Casserole

1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained and 1/2 liquid reserved1 (14.75 ounce) can cream-style corn

2 eggs

1 (8 ounce) package dry corn bread mix

1 C. sour cream

8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, reserved liquid, eggs, corn bread mix and sour cream; stir until blended. Pour batter into prepared pan; sprinkle with cheese. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, until golden brown.

Puff Pastry Garlic Bread Roll-ups

Puff Pastry Garlic Bread Roll-ups

Puff Pastry Garlic Bread Roll-ups

1 puff pastry sheet (9×9-inch), thawed

5 T. softened butter

1 heaping T. minced garlic

1 T. chopped fresh parsley

1 T. grated Parmesan cheese

In a small bowl combine the butter with the garlic, parsley and Parmesan. Sprinkle a work surface lightly with flour and gently unfold the pastry. Spread ¾ of the butter mixture evenly from edge to edge. Roll it up. Cover with saran wrap and refrigerate 20 – 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with butter. When the oven is ready take the puff pastry out of the fridge and slice into 1-inch thick rolls. Set on the baking sheet 1 – 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with butter. Bake 20 minutes until golden and puffed. Brush the tops again if you have butter left – there will be melted butter on the baking sheet – you can brush the tops with that too using a pastry brush.

Old Fashioned Fried Cornbread

Old Fashioned Fried Cornbread

Old Fashioned Fried Cornbread

3 C. water

3 C. cornmeal

1 tsp. salt

3/4 tsp. sugar

1 C. lard (no substitutes)

 

Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan over high heat. Meanwhile, combine the cornmeal, salt, and sugar in a heat-proof bowl. Pour the boiling water into the cornmeal mixture and stir until the dry ingredients absorb all the water and the cornbread batter is firm. If the mixture does not firm up or is grainy, add a little additional water and microwave it until it is fully cooked and firm enough to shape.  Heat the lard in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Dip your hands in ice water then form the cornbread into patties. The batter will be hot. Add the patties to the skillet (in batches if necessary) and cook until golden brown. Flip them over and cook on the other side until crispy and brown. Remove the cornbread patties from the pan and let drain on paper toweling. Serve warm.