Ham & Cheese Bake

Ham & Cheese Bake

Ham & Cheese Bake

 

12 to 16 croissants, cut into large pieces (about 12 cups)

6 ounces cubed ham

8 ounces white cheddar cheese (or any sharp cheese you have on hand)

1½ cups half-and-half

6 large eggs

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 × 13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Arrange the croissant pieces, ham, and cheese in the prepared baking pan. In a large bowl, mix the half-and-half, eggs, mustard, parsley, salt, pepper, and butter and pour over the ingredients in the pan. Give the mixture a slight toss and let it sit for 20 minutes. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Serve immediately.

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 tablespoons 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.

Calzone Rolls with Salami, Tomato and Basil

Calzone Rolls with Salami, Tomato and Basil

 

4 large, crusty Keiser rolls

1 1/2 C. ricotta cheese

Salt and pepper

1/4 pound salami, chopped

1/4 C. Parmigiano-Reggiano

8 slices fresh mozzarella

8 slices vine ripe tomato

8 fresh basil leaves, torn or sliced

 

Heat the oven to 325 degrees F. Split the Keiser rolls favoring the bottom half a little. Scoop a little of the white soft insides out of the bottoms. Season the ricotta with a little salt and pepper. Stir the salami and grated cheese into ricotta. Fill the rolls with the ricotta and salami. Cover the ricotta with mozzarella, tomato and basil. Set covers in place and bake to heat through 10 to 12 minutes. Cut and serve.

Brazilian Limeade

Brazilian Limeade

3 limes, quartered

1/3  cup sugar

3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk

 

Place all the ingredients in a blender. Add 4 cups cold water and blend on high speed until limes are slightly chopped. Strain into a pitcher and then, with the strainer still resting above the pitcher, slowly pour about 1 more cup water (depending on how sweet you want the drink) through the strainer over the lime pieces to extract all the residual sugar and juice. I ended up adding a little more sugar at the end because the rinds made it a tad on the bitter side. Thank you, sugar.

Baked Jalapeno Poppers

Baked Jalapeno Poppers

 

12 large jalapeño peppers

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

4 ounces Manchego cheese, grated

2 to 3 T. green salad olives with pimientos, finely chopped

2 T. chopped parsley or cilantro

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Slice off a lengthwise piece of each jalapeño then, using a small spoon or paring knife, scrape the seeds out of each pepper to make little jalapeño canoes. Chop the tops finely and add to a mixing bowl with the cream cheese, Manchego, green olives, parsley, salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use a small spoon to fill the canoes or transfer the mixture to a re-sealable plastic bag, snip off the end and squeeze the mixture into the hulls of your jalapeño canoes. Arrange the peppers on cookie sheet, transfer to the oven and roast for 15 minutes.

Red Wine & Blue Burgers

Red Wine & Blue Burgers

 

2 pounds ground sirloin

3 scallions, white and green parts chopped

2 tsp. (about a half palmful) grill seasoning

2 tsp. Worcestershire

1 tsp. coarse black pepper

Salt

1/2 C. dry red wine

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)

1 C. buttermilk

1 C. blue cheese, crumbled

1 tsp. hot sauce

4 Kaiser rolls, split and lightly toasted

2 bunches of watercress, trimmed of any thick stems

6 ribs celery, cut into three-inch sticks

Fancy potato chips, such as rosemary chips

 

While the burgers are cooking, put together the blue part of the meal: In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, blue cheese, hot sauce and a little salt and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.

In a bowl, combine the ground sirloin, scallions, grill seasoning, Worcestershire, black pepper, a little salt and the red wine, and mix until thoroughly combined. Using the back of your hand, score the meat into 4 equal portions then make each portion into patties about an inch thick. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 turns of the pan of EVOO, about 2 T.. Once it starts to ripple, add the patties and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until they reach desired doneness. Place a burger on top of each toasted bun bottom, top that with some of the watercress and a couple of dollops of the blue sauce. Serve with some fancy chips and celery sticks alongside.

Saltimbocca Burgers

Saltimbocca Burgers

 

1 1/2 pounds ground veal

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

15 leaves fresh sage, thinly sliced

Salt and pepper

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)

4 slices prosciutto (about 1/4 pound)

6 ounces fontina cheese, sliced or shredded

Eight 1-inch-thick slices semolina bread

2 C. chopped romaine lettuce from the heart

Juice of 1/2 lemon

 

In a medium bowl, mix the veal, garlic and sage; season with salt and pepper. Form 4 patties, pressing your thumb in the center of each burger to prevent it from bulging while cooking. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 T. EVOO, 2 turns of the pan, over medium-high heat. Add the burger patties and cook through, about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Top the burgers with the prosciutto and fontina. Cover the skillet to melt the cheese, about 3 minutes. While the burgers cook, toast the bread and set aside. In a medium bowl, dress the lettuce with the remaining 2 T. EVOO and the lemon juice; season to taste with salt and pepper. Set each burger on a toasted bread slice; top with the romaine and another toasted bread slice.

 

Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs

Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs

1 large clove garlic, minced 

1 fat shallot, minced 

2 cups chopped tomatoes, any ripe and juicy variety (or a combination) 

⅓ cup loosely packed herbs, chopped (a combination of at least two: basil, marjoram, thyme, Italian parsley, fennel fronds) 

½ cup extra-virgin olive oil 

Zest of 1 lemon 

⅛ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 

 1 lb. tagliatelle or fettucine (fresh or dried egg pasta) 

 

n a medium bowl, combine the garlic, shallot, tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, a big pinch of salt, and a couple of turns of freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine, then cover with plastic wrap. Allow to rest at room temperature at least 30 minutes or up to several hours. When ready to eat, put a large pot of salted water on the stove to boil. Cook pasta to al dente, then drain. Taste tomato sauce, adding more salt if necessary. Toss drained pasta with tomato sauce and serve immediately.

Provencal Tuna Melt

Provencal Tuna Melt

 

3 cans of tuna in water, drained and flaked

5 to 6 sprigs tarragon, stripped from the stem and chopped

1/2 C. basil leaves, finely chopped

1/4 C. parsley leaves, finely chopped

12 black or green pitted olives, about a handful, finely chopped

2 shallots, finely chopped

3 T. capers, chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 French baguette, cut into 4 sections and split on top

2-4 T. Butter

4 ounces Gruyere or Swiss cheese, thinly sliced

 

Preheat the broiler. In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the tuna, tarragon, basil, parsley, olives, shallots and capers. Squeeze the lemon over the bowl, being careful not to get any of the seeds in. Drizzle in the olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine. Reserve in the fridge until ready to serve. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. While the skillet is heating, spread butter on baguettes. Toast in the skillet until golden brown. Fill the baguettes with the tuna salad. Top with gruyere cheese and pop under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

 

Deli Stuffed Eggwiches

Deli Stuffed Eggwiches

3 eggs

Splash milk or cream

Splash hot sauce

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

8 slices white or wheat bread

4 rounded T. apricot or raspberry preserves

4 rounded T. grainy Dijon mustard

4 slices ham

4 slices Swiss cheese

4 slices herb roast turkey

2 T. butter

Beat eggs, milk or cream and hot sauce with salt and pepper. Mix together the preserves and mustard. Spread the mixture on 1 side of each slice of bread. Face the coated sides in and make sandwiches of ham, cheese and turkey, folding meat and cheese to fit the bread. Heat a skillet with butter over medium heat. Coat sandwiches in egg and cook 3 minutes on each side until deeply golden and warmed through. Cut sandwiches from corner to corner and serve.

Stick-to-Your-Ribs Sausage, Bean & Barley Soup

Stick-to-Your-Ribs Sausage, Bean & Barley Soup

If you want to make this soup stretch a bit, just add 1/2 – 1 cup extra barley.

 

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

4 ribs celery, thinly sliced

4 hot Italian Sausage, casings removed

4 cups chicken (or beef or veggie) stock

1 cup pearled barley

2 15 oz. cans of red kidney beans

2 tsp. smoked paprika

juice of 1/2 a lime

1/4 cup Italian Parsley, roughly chopped

 

Set a large, heavy pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil, onions and celery. Sautee until the onions and celery begin to soften, about 5 minutes.  Add the chicken sausage and brown it, using a wooden spoon to break up any large chunks. When the sausage has browned, add the stock, barley, beans and paprika. Simmer for 20 – 30 minutes, or until it begins to thicken up. Stir in the lime juice and serve. Sprinkle with Italian parsley.

Root Beer Float Cake

Root Beer Float Cake

1 package (18-1/4 ounces) white cake mix

1-3/4 C. cold root beer, divided

1/4 C. vegetable oil

2 eggs

1 envelope whipped topping mix (Dream Whip)

 

In a large mixing bowl, combine dry cake mix, 1-1/4 C. root beer, oil and eggs; beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Pour into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack. In a small mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping mix and remaining root beer. Beat until soft peaks form. Frost cake. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 12-16 servings.

Pumpkin Torte

Pumpkin Torte

 

1 package (18-1/4 ounces) yellow cake mix

1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin, divided

1/2 C. milk

4 eggs

1/3 C. canola oil

1-1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice, divided

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

1 C. confectioners’ sugar

1 carton (16 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed

1/4 C. caramel ice cream topping

1/3 C. chopped pecans, toasted

 

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, 1 C. pumpkin, milk, eggs, eggs and 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice; beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Pour into two greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add the confectioners’ sugar, and remaining pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice; beat until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Cut each cake horizontally into two layers. Place bottom layer on a serving plate; spread with a fourth of the filling. Repeat layers three times. Drizzle with caramel topping; sprinkle with pecans. Store in the refrigerator.

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.

Fruit-Filled Orange Cake

Fruit-Filled Orange Cake

 

1 package (18-1/4 ounces) yellow cake mix

3/4 C. water

1/2 C. orange juice

1/2 C. egg substitute

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 T. canola oil

1/2 tsp. grated orange peel

1 carton (6 ounces) reduced-fat orange-cream yogurt

2 C. reduced-fat whipped topping

1 C. diced fresh strawberries, patted dry

1 C. canned unsweetened pineapple tidbits, drained and patted dry

 

Coat two 9-in. round baking pans with cooking spray; line with waxed paper. Coat waxed paper with cooking spray; set aside. In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients; beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat for 2 minutes. Fold in orange peel. Pour into prepared pans. Bake at 350° for 18-24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks. In a large bowl, combine yogurt and whipped topping. In another bowl, combine strawberries and pineapple. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with half of the yogurt mixture; top with half of the fruit mixture. Top with second cake layer. Spread remaining yogurt mixture over top of cake; sprinkle with remaining fruit. Store in the refrigerator.

 

Celebration Cranberry Cake

Celebration Cranberry Cake

 

3 T. butter, softened

1 C. sugar

1 C. evaporated milk

2 C. all-purpose flour

3 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

2 C. fresh or frozen cranberries, halved

BUTTER CREAM SAUCE:

1/2 C. butter, cubed

1 C. sugar

1 C. heavy whipping cream

1 tsp. vanilla extract

 

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy; beat in milk. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture. Stir in cranberries. Pour into a greased 9-in. square baking pan. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. For sauce, melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in the sugar and cream; bring to a boil, stirring often. Boil for 8-10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla. Serve warm with cake. Yield: 9 servings.

Extra Cheesy Crescent Mozzarella Wedges

Extra Cheesy Crescent Mozzarella Wedges

1 (8 ounce) package Pillsbury Crescent Recipe Creations

1 tablespoon butter, melted

1/4-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 T. Italian Seasoning

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Place dough out on a lightly sprayed cookie sheet.

 

Press dough onto the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Brush with butter; sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian Seasoning and cheese. Bake at 375 degree oven for 15-17 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is lightly browned. Cut into wedges and serve warm.

Pumpkin Pie Squares

Pumpkin Pie Squares

 

1 can (29 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin

1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk

1-1/2 C. sugar

4 eggs

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg

1 package (18-1/2 ounces) butter recipe golden cake mix

1 C. butter, melted

1 C. chopped pecans

Whipped topping, optional

 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the first seven ingredients; beat on medium speed until smooth. Pour into an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Sprinkle with cake mix, then drizzle butter over top. Sprinkle with pecans. Bake at 350° for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 1 hour on a wire rack. Refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight. Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and garnish each serving with whipped topping. Yield: 12-16.

Eggnog Pumpkin Pie

Eggnog Pumpkin Pie

1 (15 ounce) can solid pack pumpkin

1 1/4 C. eggnog

2/3 C. sugar

3 eggs

1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1/4 tsp. salt

1 (9 inch) unbaked pastry shells

 

In a large bowl combine the pumpkin, eggnog, sugar, eggs, spices and salt. Mix well. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Bake at 375 degrees for 60 minutes or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean—mine took about 70 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Refrigerate until serving.

Cake Pops (Bakerella)

Cake Pops (Bakerella)

1 box cake mix (cook as directed on box for 13 X 9 cake)

1 can frosting (16 oz.)

1 package chocolate bark (regular or white chocolate) or candy melts

Lollipop sticks

Styrofoam Block

 

Candy Writers (Candy writers are colored chocolate (candy coating) in a tube that can be melted and then used to paint molds or add details to candies and baked goods)

Edible Ink Pen

Jimmies, Sprinkles, sugar pearls, confetti sprinkles, Small candies, etc

 

After cake is cooked and cooled completely, crumble into large bowl. Mix thoroughly with 1 can cream cheese frosting. (It may be easier to use fingers to mix together, but be warned it will get messy.)  You may not need the entire can of frosting, so start out by using almost the entire can and add more if you need to.  Roll mixture into quarter size balls and lay on cookie sheet. (Should make 45-50. You can get even more if you use a mini ice cream scooper, but I like to hand roll them.) Chill for several hours. (You can speed this up by putting in the freezer.) Melt chocolate in microwave per directions on package.  Dip the tip of your lollipop stick in a little of the melted candy coating and insert into the cake balls. (Insert a little less than halfway.) Once firm, carefully insert the cake ball into the candy coating by holding the lollipop stick and rotating until covered. Once covered remove and softly tap and rotate until the excess chocolate falls off. Don’t tap too hard or the cake ball will fall off, too. Place in a styrofoam block to dry.

 

Gravy-Soaked Turkey over Sausage Stuffing and Peas with Sweetened Cranberries

Gravy-Soaked Turkey over Sausage Stuffing and Peas with Sweetened Cranberries

 

2 T. extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), divided

3/4 pound bulk sweet Italian sausage or maple breakfast sausage, removed from casing

4 ribs celery and leafy tops, chopped

1 medium to large onion, chopped

1 bay leaf, fresh or dried

5-6 sprigs of leaves sage, chopped (a couple of T.)

5-6 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves stripped and chopped (a couple of T.)

Salt and black pepper

4 slices white or whole wheat toasting bread

5 T. butter, divided

1 quart chicken or turkey stock, divided

2 T. flour

1/2 C. flat leaf parsley leaves (a couple of handfuls), chopped

1 1/2 pounds thickly sliced roasted turkey breast from a good quality deli counter

1/2 C. sweetened dried cranberries

2 boxes frozen peas (10 ounces each)

 

For the stuffing, pre-heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with one turn of the pan of EVOO, about 1 T.. Add the sausage and break it up using the back of a wooden spoon. Cook until well browned, 5 minutes. Add the celery, onion, bay leaf, sage, thyme and some salt and pepper and continue to cook until the veggies are soft, 7-8 minutes. Toast the sliced bread, then spread with 2 T. softened butter and chop the toast into small cubes. Add the chopped, buttered toast to the sausage and veggies. Toss to combine and moisten with a C. or so of the stock. Cover skillet and keep warm until ready to serve. Remove the bay leaf just before serving. In another large skillet, add 2 T. of butter and 1 T. of EVOO. Once butter has melted, add the flour and cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute. Whisk in 2 C. of stock, then season with some salt and pepper and cook until thickened. Add the parsley and turkey and simmer until the turkey is heated through, 1-2 minutes. For the peas, place a C. of the stock in a medium size saucepot or skillet and add the sweetened dried cranberries. Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring up to a simmer. Once simmering, cook for 2-3 minutes, then add the frozen peas and season with some salt and pepper. Cook until heated through. Add 1 T. of butter and stir to melt. Cover and keep warm until ready to serve. Serve a mound of stuffing topped with gravy soaked turkey, cran-peas along side.

Shrimp Wonton Soup

Shrimp Wonton Soup

8 oz. peeled and deveined medium size shrimp

1/8 teaspoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

1/8 teaspoon fish sauce

1 small pinch of salt

3 dashes white pepper powder

1 oz yellow chives (chopped finely)

1/2 teaspoon corn starch

15 wonton wrappers

3 cups stock

Salt to taste

White pepper powder to taste

Sesame oil to taste

 

1 1/2 pound leg quarters (chicken thighs and legs)

1 1/2 pound lean pork

1 1/2 pound ham

10 cups water

 

Prepare the stock first by boiling all the ingredients in a deep stockpot. Bring it to boil and skim off the scum that surfaces until the stock is clear. Simmer on low heat for a couple of hours. Pour the stock through a sieve and set aside. Save the extra in a container and keep it in the fridge for future use. Put the shrimp in a small bowl and rinse them under cold running water for about 5-10 minutes. (This step makes the shrimp crunchy.) Drain the water and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and then cut each shrimp into 3-4 pieces. Add half of the chopped yellow chives into the shrimp and marinate with the seasonings for 1 hour. Blend the shrimp well with the seasoning. Place a wonton wrapper on your palm and put about 1 teaspoon (about 3-4 pieces) of the shrimp filling in the center of the wonton wrapper. Gather the corners of the wrapper with the other hand and give it a twist in the middle to “close” the wonton. Repeat until the filling is used up.  Add 3 cups of stock into a medium saucepan and bring it to boil. Add the remaining chopped yellow chives into the stock, add salt, white pepper powder, and sesame oil to taste and set aside. Heat up another big saucepan with water. As soon as it boils, drop the wontons into the water. Stirring gently so the wontons don’t stick together. Continue to boil until the wontons are cooked and float to the surface. Transfer the wontons out with a hand strainer and divide them into 3 equal servings. Pour a ladleful of stock over each serving and serve immediately.

Turkey Cutlets with Cranberry Orange Stuffing and Pan Gravy

Turkey Cutlets with Cranberry Orange Stuffing and Pan Gravy

 

1 T. extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)

2 T. butter, cut into small pieces

2 ribs celery from the heart, with greens, chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

1 bay leaf, fresh or dried

Salt and pepper

2 cranberry orange muffins, from the baked goods section at the grocery store

2 T. chopped fresh thyme leaves (a few sprigs), stems removed

1 C. chicken stock

2 T. extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)

1 1/3 pounds turkey breast cutlets (the average weight of one package)

Salt and pepper

1 tsp. poultry seasoning

2 T. butter, cut in small pieces

2 T. all-purpose flour

2 C. chicken stock

Flat leaf parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

 

To make the stuffing, heat EVOO and butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. When the butter melts, add the celery, onion and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Crumble the muffins into the pan and combine with the vegetables. Add thyme and chicken stock. Cook stuffing five minutes, stirring occasionally, then remove from heat and let stand in the warm pan. To make the turkey and gravy, pre-heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the EVOO. Season turkey cutlets with salt, pepper and poultry seasoning. Sauté five minutes on each side, then transfer cutlets to a warm plate and cover plate with aluminum foil. Return skillet to stove and reduce heat a bit. Add butter, then add flour to the melted butter. Cook flour and butter a minute or two, stirring with a whisk. Whisk in chicken stock. Reduce the stock 2-3 minutes to desired gravy consistency. Season with salt and pepper, to your taste. To serve, mound cranberry orange stuffing onto each dinner plate using an ice cream scoop. Rest sautéed turkey cutlets on top of the stuffing and cover the turkey with gravy. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Forest Beef Stew

Forest Beef Stew

 

2 T. EVOO (extra-virgin olive oil), twice around the pan

2 pounds sirloin shell steak, trimmed and chopped into bite-size pieces

Salt and black pepper

2 carrots, peeled and sliced on an angle

4 parsnips, peeled and sliced on an angle

4 shallots, peeled and quartered

2 fresh or dried bay leaves

12 dried apricots, coarsely chopped

8 dried figs, coarsely chopped

A handful of dried cranberries

1 T. Worcestershire sauce

1 quart (4 cups) beef stock

8 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped

1/4 tsp. ground allspice (eyeball it)

1/4 C. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, a generous handful

3 T. fresh chives, snipped or chopped

1/2 C. smoked almonds, chopped

Toasted whole-grain bread or rolls

Softened butter

 

Heat the EVOO in a large, deep skillet or stew pot over high heat. When the oil ripples, add the beef and brown it all over, 6 to 7 minutes. Season liberally with salt and pepper, then add the vegetables and bay leaves to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for 5 minutes to begin to soften the vegetables. Add the dried fruits, Worcestershire, and beef stock. Mix well, then stir in the sage and allspice. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, or until the dried fruits are plump and the vegetables tender. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste and remove the bay leaves. Serve the stew in shallow bowls and top with the parsley, chives, and smoked almonds. Pass bread and butter at the table.

 

Hearts of Palm Salad

Hearts of Palm Salad

 

1/4  C. fat-skimmed chicken broth

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil

2 T. white wine vinegar or rice vinegar

2 T. drained capers

2 T. lemon juice

2 T. minced shallots

2 tsp. Dijon mustard

2 cans (14 to 16 oz. each) hearts of palm (packed in water), drained and rinsed with cold water

2 hard-cooked large eggs, shelled

1/4  C. minced parsley

4 ounces shelled cooked tiny shrimp

1 firm-ripe avocado (8 oz.)

Salt and pepper

 

In a bowl, mix broth, olive oil, vinegar, capers, lemon juice, shallots, and mustard. If desired, cut hearts of palm in half lengthwise. Lay hearts of palm in dressing, turn over, and let stand at least 5 minutes. Separate egg yolks from whites. Chop both or finely mash with a fork; keep separate. Lift hearts of palm from dressing and arrange on salad plates. Add parsley and shrimp to dressing in bowl and mix. Pit, peel, and thinly slice avocado; arrange on salads. Spoon shrimp and all the dressing over the hearts of palm and avocado. Sprinkle with egg whites, then yolks. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Farro Salad with Bacon & Cauliflower

Farro Salad with Bacon & Cauliflower

 

 

To enhance this version, add a handful or two of walnuts or pecans. Some crumbled goat cheese might also be nice here.

 

4 cups farro, cooked according to package instructions*

10 slices good-quality bacon, thinly sliced

1 head cauliflower, florets roughly chopped

4 large handfuls of arugula (or other leafy green, such as spinach)

3 tbsp. olive oil

juice of 1 lemon

2 tsp. salt

freshly ground pepper

1 cup pecan halves

 

In a large skillet, sauté the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove to a paper towel with a slotted spoon, but leave the fat in the skillet over the heat.  Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet and sauté for about 7 minutes, or until they become tender and begin to brown slightly. Remove the florets to a paper towel with a slotted spoon. Let the bacon and cauliflower cool, then toss with the farro and arugula. Drizzle with the olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss until the salad is evenly coated. Top with pecan halves.  Variations:  walnuts or pecans can be added.  Try with crumbled goat cheese.   *I buy pearled farro from Whole Foods (in the bean section for some reason). The package asks you to soak it overnight. I just add about 6 cups of water to the 16 oz. that come packaged and boil for 30 – 40 minutes, or until the farro is tender, but still somewhat chewy. Drain off any excess water, cool and you’re ready to make a salad.

Berry Refrigerator Preserves

Berry Refrigerator Preserves

 

1 quart berries

1 to 1 1/2 cups sugar

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

 

Makes about a pint.  Wash the berries (if using strawberries remove hulls and quarter them). Alternate layers of berries and sugar in a small non-reactive pot. Bring to a boil, from time to time, then turn the heat down. Stir in the lemon juice and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often. With a slotted spoon, remove fruit to a small jar. Continue simmering juice until it is reduced by half and becomes syrupy. Pour over the berries and allow to cool. Cover container and keep in refrigerator. My notes: Blackberries generally require more sugar than other berries. If I make more than one jar I keep the extras in the freezer, and allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight when I want to use them. This also makes a very nice topping for ice cream, and simple cakes such as a pound cake or Angel Food cake.

Butter Pecan Pumpkin Pie

Butter Pecan Pumpkin Pie

 

1 quart butter pecan ice cream, softened

1 pastry shell (9 inches), baked

1 C. canned pumpkin

1/2 C. sugar

1/4 tsp. each ground cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg

1 C. heavy whipping cream, whipped

1/2 C. caramel ice cream topping

1/2 C. chocolate ice cream topping, optional

Additional whipped cream

 

Spread ice cream into the crust; freeze for 2 hours or until firm. In a small mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg; fold in whipped cream. Spread over ice cream. Cover and freeze for 2 hours or until firm. May be frozen for up to 2 months. Remove from the freezer 15 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with caramel ice cream topping. Drizzle with chocolate ice cream topping if desired. Dollop with whipped cream. Yield: 6-8 servings.

Chocolate Malted Whopper Drops

Chocolate Malted Whopper Drops

1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup carnation malted milk powder (I used Ovaltine Chocolate Malt Mix)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1 stick plus 3 tbsp butter, at room temperature

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 cup whole milk (I used low-fat milk and it worked fine)

2 cups Whoppers, coarsely chopped

6 oz. bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped (I used semi-sweet chocolate chips)

 

Preheat your oven to 350 F.   Position the racks to divide the oven into thirds and line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Sift together the flour, malted milk powder, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Working with a stand mixer, preferably fitted with a paddle attachment, or with a hand mixer in a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until very smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating for about a minute after each addition. Beat in the vanilla; don’t be concerned in the mixture looks curdled – it will even out when the dry ingredients are added. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add half the dry ingredients, mixing just until they disappear in the the batter. Mix in the milk, then the remaining dry ingredients, mixing only until they are incorporated. The batter will look more like fudge frosting than cookie dough – and that’s fine. With the mixer on low, or by hand with a rubber spatula, mix in the malted milk balls and chopped chocolate. Drop the dough by rounded tablespoonfuls on to the sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between spoonfuls. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, rotating the sheets from top to bottom and front to back after 6 minutes. When done, the cookies will be puffed and set slightly but soft to the touch. Let the cookies rest for 2 minutes before using a wide metal spatula to transfer them to the racks to cool to room temperature. Repeat with the remaining dough, cooling the baking sheets between batches.

Pumpkin Shortbread Dessert

Pumpkin Shortbread Dessert

 

1-3/4 C. sugar, divided

1-1/2 C. all-purpose flour

1/2 C. cold butter

4 eggs, lightly beaten

1 can (29 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. ground cloves

2 cans (12 ounces each) evaporated milk

Whipped cream and additional ground cinnamon, optional

 

In a bowl, combine 1/4 C. sugar and flour; cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. In a bowl, combine the eggs, pumpkin, salt, spices and remaining sugar. Stir in milk. Pour over crust. Bake at 425° for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350°; bake 50-55 minutes longer or until filling is set. Cool on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Cut into squares. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired. Yield: 15-18 minutes.

Sweet Basil Omelet

Sweet Basil Omelet

 

 

2 cups Sweet Basil or any of your choice – fully packed

4 Eggs ( I used Large Eggs)

1 T. Fish Sauce (optional)

2 T. Soya Sauce

White Pepper

Sesame Oil

Oil for cooking

 

Wash the sweet basil thoroughly. Drain and set aside. In a large bowl; break the eggs and whisk lightly Add in the fish sauce and soya sauce to taste. If you don’t have fish sauce you can use soya sauce throughout and adjust the saltiness to your taste. Mix well the mixture. In a medium size pan, heat enough oil to cook the amount of the egg mixture. When the pan is hot, pour the egg mixture in. Before the mixture sets, quickly add in the sweet basil leaves and distribute the leaves evenly around the omelet. (Before add in the leaves, bruise the leaves a bit with your hands to release the basil oil.) When omelet is about to set, fold over a half portion of omelet over the other half (like folding pancake or Coin Purse Egg) carefully to form a half moon shape. Let the omelet cook for few minutes or until there’s no more uncooked liquid oozes out when you press it with spatula. Remove from pan and drizzle some sesame oil before serving.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie

 

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

3 T. confectioners’ sugar

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 unbaked pastry shell (9 inches)

FILLING:

1-2/3 C. heavy whipping cream

1-1/2 C. canned pumpkin

2 eggs, lightly beaten

3/4 C. sugar

1-3/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

 

In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread into pastry shell. In a bowl, whisk filling ingredients until smooth. Pour over cream cheese layer. Cover edges loosely with foil. Bake at 350° for 70-80 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Store pie in the refrigerator.

English Batter Buns

English Batter Buns

 

2 packages (1/4 ounces each) active dry yeast

1 C. warm milk (110° to 115°)

1/2 C. shortening

2 T. sugar

1 tsp. salt

2 eggs, beaten

3-1/2 C. all-purpose flour

Butter, melted

 

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in milk. Add shortening, sugar, salt, eggs and 2 C. of flour; beat 2 minutes. Stir in remaining flour until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes. Stir batter vigorously for 25 strokes (dough will be slightly sticky). Spoon into 12 greased muffin cups. Tap pans to settle the batter. Cover and let rise until batter reaches tops of cups, about 20 minutes. Bake at 400° for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with butter. Yield: 1 dozen.

Corn Fritters

Corn Fritters

One whole corn on the cob

2 large eggs

5 T. whole milk

25g butter, melted

85g self raising flour

Pinch of salt

2 spring onions, finely chopped

4 T. sunflower oil to fry them in

 

If using fresh corn, peel and remove the husk and corn silk and discard. Taking a sharp knife cut all the kernels from off of the cob and place them in a pan of boiling water. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until done. Drain well and cool. Whisk the eggs, milk and butter together. Whisk in the flour along with a pinch of salt. Whisk the batter until smooth. Stir in the well drained corn and the chopped spring onions. Heat the sunflower oil in a large non-stick frying pan. When the oil begins to shimmer drop the batter into the pan by large spoonfuls. Fry for about 2 minutes, until the fritters are puffed up and golden brown, before flipping them over to brown on the other side. Drain on some kitchen paper towelling and keep warm in a warm oven while you cook the rest. You should get about 8 altogether. Serve warm with some crispy fried bacon and Canadian Maple Syrup on the side. These are a real treat!

Savory Orange Dressing

Savory Orange Dressing

 

1 C. sliced celery

1/2 C. chopped onion

1/3 C. butter

2 tsp. chicken bouillon granules

2-1/2 C. boiling water

1 package (14 ounces) seasoned stuffing cubes

1/2 C. shredded carrot

1/4 C. orange juice

2 tsp. grated orange peel

 

In a small skillet, sauté celery and onion in butter until tender. In a large bowl, dissolve bouillon in boiling water. Stir in the stuffing cubes, carrot, orange juice, peel and the celery mixture. Spoon into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Cover and bake at 350° for 20 minutes. Uncover; bake 15 minutes longer or until heated through. Yield: 10 servings.

Cherry Cranberry Sauce

Cherry Cranberry Sauce

 

1-1/2 C. sugar

1-1/2 C. water

4 C. fresh or frozen cranberries (1 pound)

1 can (14-1/2 ounces) pitted tart cherries, drained

 

In a large saucepan, cook sugar and water over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Add cranberries and cherries. Bring to a boil. Cook uncovered, until cranberries begin to pop, about 6 minutes. Reduce heat; cook 20 minutes longer or until thickened. Pour into a serving dish. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours.

Tarte Tatin á la Tomate – Tomato Tatin

Tarte Tatin á la Tomate – Tomato Tatin

 

Pâte Brisée (your favorite recipe), OR 1 sheet commercially prepared puff pastry, thawed
Extra virgin olive oil
2 pounds Roma or plum tomatoes (substitute any other firm and not too juicy variety)
Fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper
Herbes de Provence (or a mix of dried rosemary, basil, oregano, and thyme)
1/4 cup black olive tapenade, store-bought or homemade
6 ounces fresh goat cheese
1/3 cup (loosely packed) fresh basil leaves
Chilling time: 30 minutes for the dough

Prepare the Pâte Brisée, wrap securely in cling film and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. May be made up to 24 hours ahead. I used a sheet of commercially prepared puff pastry, (thawed as directed on package.) Preheat the oven to 350°F. Rub the interior of a 10-inch ceramic quiche pan with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Halve the tomatoes lengthwise and core them. Using your thumb dislodge seeds in the crevices (discard), squeeze tomatoes gently to rid them of some of their juices. Arrange them in the prepared pan, skin side down, in a circular pattern. They will shrink as they bake, fill the pan snugly. Season with salt, pepper, herbs, and a good drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 30 minutes, until softened. Remove from the oven (retaining oven temperature). Remove the dough from the fridge and let stand at room temperature for 10 minutes. Working on a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough in an 11-inch circle and prick all over with a fork. Spread with tapenade, leaving a 1-inch margin all around. Cut the cheese in 1⁄3-inch slices and arrange over the tomatoes in the pan. Lay the dough, tapenade side down, on the cheese, and tuck in the overhanging flaps of dough. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the crust is golden. Remove to a rack and allow to cool for several minutes. Loosen the edge of the pastry by running a knife around the inside of the quiche pan. To flip: Protect your hands with oven mitts and place an overturned serving plate over the top of the pan, flip quickly but carefully. Don’t worry if some of the tomatoes stay in the pan, just arrange them on the tart. Just before serving garnish with fresh basil leaves, snipped or torn if desired. This is best served warm or at room temperature the same day it is made. Suggested variations: Instead of tapenade, spread the dough with onion confit, anchovy paste, or pesto. Instead of goat cheese, use slices of buffalo mozzarella, drained and patted dry with paper towels.

Salmon Croquettes

Salmon Croquettes

 

1 can (14-3/4 ounces) pink salmon, drained, deboned and flaked

1 C. evaporated milk, divided

1-1/2 C. cornflake crumbs, divided

1/4 C. dill pickle relish

1/4 C. finely chopped celery

2 T. finely chopped onion

Oil for deep-fat frying

 

2/3 C. evaporated milk

1/4 C. mayonnaise

2 T. dill pickle relish

1 T. finely chopped onion

 

In a large bowl, combine the salmon, 1/2 C. milk, 1/2 C. crumbs, relish, celery and onion. With wet hands, shape 1/4 cupfuls into cones. Dip into remaining milk, then into remaining crumbs. Heat oil in a deep-fat fryer to 365°. Fry croquettes, a few at a time, for 2 to 2-1/2 minutes or until golden brown, Drain on paper towels; keep warm. In a small saucepan, combine tartar sauce ingredients; cook over medium-low heat until heated through and slightly thickened. Serve warm with croquettes. Yield: 4-6 servings.