Good Luck Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons yellow curry paste
1 heaping teaspoon ground turmeric
2 cans black-eyed peas or chickpeas (or I like doing one of each!), drained
1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and 1/2-inch cubed (1 pound equals 2 or 3 medium-sized sweet potatoes — use the scale at your grocery store!)
2 cans full-fat coconut milk
2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable stock (or 2 cups water + 2 teaspoons low-sodium vegetable or chicken Better than Bouillon)
1 large bunch collard greens (or Swiss chard), roughly chopped and washed 

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons fish sauce
Juice of 1 lime (or 1 tablespoon of any clear vinegar)
Optional: sriracha

Pancetta croutons:

1 (4-ounce) container diced pancetta (or 3 slices bacon, diced)
3 slices bread (any kind), torn into tiny pieces Optional: 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
A few shakes of garlic powder
Pinch of kosher salt
Handful of chopped up fresh soft green herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or basil), only if you have 'em already

Warm 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Cook 1 finely chopped onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Add 3 tablespoons yellow curry paste and 1 heaping teaspoon ground turmeric and continue cooking, stirring, until the paste starts to stick to the bottom of the pot. 

Stir in 2 cans drained black-eyed peas, 1 pound peeled and cubed sweet potatoes, 2 cans coconut milk, and 2 cups vegetable stock. Use your spoon to scrape up any bits that are stuck to the bottom of the pot.  Raise the heat to high and bring it to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer (small bubbles!) and cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender. 

Meanwhile, roughly chop and wash 1 large bunch of collard greens. You want pieces that are about 1 inch in size - long pieces are not as enjoyable to eat because they hang off your spoon!

While the good luck soup is simmering,  make pancetta croutons.  In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook 1 (4-ounce) container diced pancetta until it's almost crispy, 4 to 5 minutes. 

Tear 3 slices of bread into tiny pieces and add it directly to the skillet. Stir to coat the bread in pancetta fat. If the bread still looks dry, add 1 tablespoon butter or oil to the skillet. Once the bread is looking toasty, after another 4 or 5 minutes, add a few shakes of garlic powder, a pinch of kosher salt, and some chopped up herbs and stir to combine. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside while you finish making your soup.

Stir in the collards, 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons fish sauce, the juice of 1 lime, and a squirt of sriracha if you like a little heat. Cover the pot and cook for 4 minutes to help the collards wilt. If you don't have a lid for your pot, you can use a sheet pan! Stir and taste.  Add more salt, soy sauce or fish sauce! Feel like it's a bit too rich? Add more lime juice. Want a brothier soup? More stock. 

Serve your soup topped with pancetta croutons! Enjoy a bowl on January 1st so that you can enjoy good luck, wealth, and progress all year long!!!

Hot Honey Granola

½ cup Neutral Oil (Vegetable, Coconut, or Canola)
⅓ cup Honey
2 Tbsp Hot Sauce (such as Crystal)
1 tsp Red Chili Flakes
¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper
¼ tsp Garlic Powder
⅛ tsp Black Pepper
¾ tsp Paprika
2 cups Protein Oats
1 cup Organic Pumpkin Seeds
2 Tbsp White Sesame Seeds
1 Tbsp Organic Flaxseeds
2 Tbsp Organic Chia Seeds
2 Tbsp Organic Flaxseed Meal
¾ tsp Salt

Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small saucepan, combine oil, honey, hot sauce and spices. Heat over medium, whisking until smooth and combined.  Add oats, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, flaxseed, chia seeds, flaxseed meal and salt to a large bowl; toss to combine.  Pour the warm honey mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until fully coated.

Spread evenly on prepared pan. Bake 30–40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown and toasty.  Cool completely. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Parsley Bean Dip

Parsley Bean Dip

1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

2 cloves of garlic

2 T fresh lemon juice

1/3 cup olive oil

1/2 cup fresh herbs (Italian parsley, sage, & oregano)

Salt and pepper

Place the beans, garlic, lemon juice, 1/3 cup olive oil, and fresh herbs in the work bowl of a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 

Sweet Potato Pie

1 pound sweet potatoes
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup butter (melted)
1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (9-inch) unbaked deep-dish pie crust

1) Preheat the oven to 425° and line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Wash the sweet potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork. Place them on the baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until tender. Remove from the oven and allow to cool enough to handle. Peel the potatoes when cool.

2) Using a mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Add the sugar, eggs, and melted butter, and mix to combine. Add the evaporated milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla and mix until combined and smooth.

3) Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Place the unbaked pie crust on a foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet. Pour the pie filling into the crust and bake in the center of the oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the pie is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Allow the pie to cool. It may sink some as it cools. Refrigerate if desired. Serve topped with whipped cream or toasted marshmallow cream, if desired.

Pumpkin Coconut Bisque

2 tablespoons butter (coconut oil or olive oil can be used)
1 cup chopped onion
3 garlic cloves minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger
3 cups pumpkin, cooked or canned
2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon salt or to taste
2 cups light coconut milk, unsweetened canned
Ground nutmeg
pumpkin seeds

Melt butter in a heavy large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until golden. Add fresh ginger and garlic. Saute an additional minute. Add pumpkin, broth, sugar, allspice and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat. Cover and simmer until flavors blend, about 30 minutes.

Ladle the soup into a blender (or use an immersion blender) and puree until a smooth consistency. Return the soup back to the pot and add coconut milk. Bring back to a simmer. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls. Drizzle with a little coconut milk, a sprinkle of ground nutmeg, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. Makes 4-6 servings.

Germans from Russia Bierocks/Runza

Dough Ingredients

2 ¼ tsp. (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp salt
2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)

Filling Ingredients

1 ½ lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)
1 small head cabbage, finely chopped (about 6 cups)
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 ½ tsp salt, divided (or to taste)
2 tsp coarse ground black pepper
2 tbsp butter or neutral oil (for sautéing cabbage)
3 tbsp melted butter (for brushing top of buns)

Make the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit until foamy, 5–10 minutes.
2. Add salt, oil or butter, and 2 cups flour. Stir well.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups flour, kneading until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
4. Knead for 6–8 minutes on a lightly floured surface.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 to 1½ hours.
6. Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Cover and let rest 10 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with ¾ tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed. Set aside.
2. In a separate skillet, sauté the onions in butter or oil until translucent, then add chopped cabbage with the remaining ¾ tsp. salt and 1 tsp. black pepper. Cook until soft and golden, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Combine the beef and cabbage mixtures in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly.

Assemble the Bierocks

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a large baking sheet or 9x13 pan.
2. Roll each dough piece into a 4–5 inch square.
3. Place a heaping scoop of filling in the center.
4. Fold the corners over the filling and pinch to seal tightly.
5. Place seam-side down in the prepared pan.
6. Brush each bierock with melted butter.

Bake:

• Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Brush with more melted butter right out of the oven.

Notes: sauerkraut can be used instead of or in addition to cabbage. Don’t fry the cabbage and hamburger together, it’s better if they’re fried separately. These can be deep-fried rather than baked if desired.

Serve with soup or salad, cucumber salad is good.

Another version:

For the Dough:

1 1/4 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons butter
4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
1 large egg , lightly beaten with fork
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup melted butter for brushing , optional for a shinier finish

For the Filling:

4 slices thick-cut bacon , diced
1 pound lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion , finely chopped
4 cups finely shredded cabbage or combination cabbage and sauerkraut (if including sauerkraut, drain thoroughly)

2 tablespoons dill pickle brine (if you don't have any, simply omit)
1 teaspoon German mustard or Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram , optional
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese or Gruyere , optional

Scald the milk: To do this, place it in a small saucepan and heat it just it begins to form bubbles around the edges and is nearly bur no quite at boiling point. Remove it from the heat, stir in the butter until melted, and let it cool to room temperature.

To make the filling: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the bacon until done. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Add onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add cabbage and sauerkraut (if using), pickle brine, mustard and seasonings and cook until cabbage is tender, 7-10 minutes. Add more salt and pepper to taste. Let the filling cool to room temperature. Stir in shredded Swiss cheese or Gruyere if using.

To make the dough: Place all ingredients in stand mixer with dough hook, knead on medium for 5-7 minutes until it forms a soft, cohesive dough, adding a little more flour or milk as needed. Roll into a ball, spray the bowl with oil, return the dough ball to the bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes or until doubled in size.  Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces and shape into balls. Roll each ball out on a floured surface to a thickness 1/4 inch. The dough will initially spring back, just let it rest and then roll it out again.

Divide the cabbage filling, placing it in the center of each round (roughly 2 heaping tablespoons), making sure to leave the edges clear of any filling so that it will seal properly. Fold the sides of the dough up and pinch the seams to seal. Place the filled dough balls seam side down on a parchment lined baking sheet and gently and just slightly flatten them. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 30-60 minutes or until nearly doubled in size. During this final rise, preheat the oven to 350 F. Bake the bierocks for about 25 minutes or until golden brown. If you prefer a shinier finish, brush the tops with melted butter while they're still hot and serve the bierocks warm. They can be reheated in the oven, toaster oven, or microwave. 

Fresh Ricotta Cheese

8 cups whole milk (see note about milk)
¾ teaspoon table salt
¼ cup distilled white vinegar
¼–½ cup heavy cream

1. Set large fine-mesh strainer over large bowl (See more about alternative). Heat milk and salt in large saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring frequently with rubber spatula to prevent scorching, until milk registers 185 degrees.

2. Remove saucepan from heat. Add vinegar and stir until mixture curdles, about 10 seconds. Let sit, undisturbed, until mixture fully separates into curds and cloudy whey, about 5 minutes.

3. Using ladle, transfer curds and whey to prepared strainer. Let sit until most of whey has drained from ricotta but center is still moist, about 10 minutes.

4. Using rubber spatula, stir ricotta in strainer, gently scraping sides and bottom of strainer, until any excess whey has drained from ricotta, about 30 seconds (you should have at least 5½ cups whey; if not, continue to stir until you have 5½ cups whey). Discard whey. Transfer ricotta to airtight container and refrigerate until cold, about 2 hours.

5. Process ricotta and ¼ cup cream in food processor until ricotta is uniformly smooth and spreadable, about 1 minute, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. (Finished ricotta should have texture of buttercream frosting.) If ricotta is too stiff, add remaining cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until desired consistency is achieved. Serve.

Notes:  Do not use ultra-pasteurized (UHT) milk or cream in this recipe. 

Use a large fine-mesh strainer to drain the ricotta. If you don't have one, you can also use a colander lined with a single layer of cheesecloth, but you might need to stir longer in step 4 to drain off 5½ cups of whey. 

This recipe yields a creamy ricotta cheese with much smaller curds than many other homemade versions.

To Make Ahead: Ricotta can be refrigerated for up to 5 days; stir to recombine before using.

How to Use Homemade Creamy Ricotta Cheese

• Make crostini. Spread a little of the ricotta (seasoned first if you’d like) over toasted slices of baguette and think of it as a blank canvas. You could top it with peas and mint, olives and sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes and basil, or any combination of ingredients that appeals to you.
• Use in lasagna or stuffed shells
• Dollop on top of your favorite pasta dish
• Use on French toast or make cheese blintzes
• Spread half a cup on a plate, drop about a tablespoon of very good olive oil on top, maybe some herbs and a little more salt. Use fresh bread to dip the ricotta from the plate.
• Ricotta Toast: Toast your favorite bread, like sourdough, a rustic loaf, or French bread, and then spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese on top.
• Sweet Ricotta Toast Toppings:
• Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped pistachios or walnuts.
• Top with sliced peaches, honey, and fresh mint.
• Add sliced strawberries, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, and fresh basil.
• Combine with banana slices, cinnamon, and walnuts.
• Savory Ricotta Toast Toppings:
• Add roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
• Top with sliced avocado, a drizzle of olive oil, and flaky sea salt or red pepper flakes.
• Spread with tomato jam and scatter with crispy fried basil leaves.
• Combine with sliced radishes, green onion, and freshly ground black pepper.
• Serve with mushrooms sauteed with garlic and rosemary.

Winter Pesto

10 or 12 leaves of Siberian Kale (or whatever kale you grow)
2 Rutabaga leaves
3 Arugula leaves (gives it some zing!!)
5 carrot thinnings--leaves and root
2 Chinese cabbage leaves
1 Giant Red Mustard leaf 
6 or 8 sprigs of flat-leaf Parsley

(Use whatever greens and herbs you have in your garden--think broccoli, chard, dill, fennel, cabbage, collards, and use a few of the spicier greens to add flavor to the mix)!

3 to 4 garlic cloves (or to taste)

A pinch of crushed red pepper
About 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan, Romano, piquant provolone, or other hard and flavorful cheese

Olive Oil - just enough to moisten the mixture - can also add some orange juice, lemon juice, or water
Salt and pepper to taste

Wash greens and remove heavy spines.  Add to food processor and process while adding olive oil.  Add garlic and walnuts and continue to process until well blended.  Add juice as necessary to make desired consistency.  Stir in cheese. Season to taste.  

Make a great winter pesto with greens from your garden.   Use as a spread on toast or fresh bread, with pasta, with steamed vegetables, over fish--you name it.  Use your imagination!! This pesto does not turn brown when saved in the refrigerator like Basil Pesto does, and the flavors continue to meld and mellow for several days (if it lasts that long).   Enjoy!!

Spaetzle

4 large eggs
2 cups flour

1/2 cup of milk or water, and more as needed

1 to 1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. nutmeg (optional)

Butter, for serving

Add the flour, salt and nutmeg (if using) to the bowl of a stand mixer. Stir to combine. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk them. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour the eggs in it. Add the milk (start with using slightly less and add more as needed). Attach a paddle attachment to the stand mixer and "knead" the dough for about 10 minutes.  After 10 minutes or so of beating, use a wooden spoon to scoop and pull the dough. If bubbles/holes appear, the dough is done.

The dough should be stiff enough not to run through the press too easy, but not so stiff you have to strain to press the noodles through.

Bring at least 2 quarts of lightly salted water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Using a Spätzle maker of your choice, press the noodles into the simmering water and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles float to the top. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the noodles to a colander to drain the hot water and then to large bowl of ice water (this firms them up for a better/chewier texture). After a minute or two transfer them to a colander to drain completely. Before serving, warm them through in a skillet with some melted butter.   Can be served with different types of gravies, meat stew, sauerkraut and sausage, or pressed directly into soup.  

Make Ahead: The spaetzle can be stored in the fridge for at least a couple of days and then reheated. Melt some butter in a large skillet and toss the spätzle in it to heat through. Alternatively they can be microwaved in a covered dish.  To freeze, spread spaetzle on a sheet pan covered with parchment paper. Freeze and then bag in vacuum sealed freezer bags. To heat drop frozen spaetzle into boiling water or allow it to defrost in refrigerator.

Corn and Avocado Salad

2 cups uncooked pearl or Israeli couscous (or Orzo or Acini di Pepe pasta)
3 cups low sodium chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups frozen sweet corn or fresh corn cut from the cob
1 Tbsp. butter (or olive oil)
12 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
16 oz. fresh mozzarella balls, halved
2 avocados, cubed

Dressing:
1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil
2 Tbsp. honey
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook couscous or pasta per package instructions using the chicken broth instead of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste and add a drizzle of olive oil to the pot. Once done, drain and transfer to a plate to cool.  In a large frying pan, add butter or oil and then the corn. Sauté until most kernels are somewhat browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Whisk together the dressing ingredients and adjust to taste.   Add all salad ingredients and mix thoroughly.

Serve soon after adding avocado.    .  

Chicken Marsala

3 chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise
1/4 cup flour
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 Tbsp. olive oil

3 Tbsp. butter, divided
8 to 12 oz. Baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth 

3/4 cup Marsala wine
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Chicken cutlets should be 1/4 inch thick.  Flatten them with a mallet if necessary. Combine the flour, salt and pepper in a large bag or bowl. Toss or shake to coat them with flour mixture.  . 

Heat the oil and 2 Tbsp. butter in a large skillet. When butter is melted, add the chicken cutlets to the pan and cook on medium for about 3 minutes per side, until  golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
Melt the remaining 1 Tbsp. butter and add the mushrooms. Saute them for 2-3 minutes until they soften.  Add the shallot and garlic and season with salt to taste. Cook for a minute or two.  Add the broth, Marsala wine, heavy cream and thyme and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook sauce for 10 to 15 minutes until it thickens and browns in color, stirring occasionally. 

Add the chicken back to the pan and baste with the sauce. Heat for a few more minutes and then garnish with fresh parsley and serve with spaetzle, pasta or mashed potatoes.

Dilly Beans

2 pounds green beans, washed and trimmed
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup apple cider vinegar
2 cups water
1/4 cup sugar
4 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
1 Tbsp. pickling spices
1 1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
1/2 cup minced onion
4 sprigs fresh dill (dried dill or dill weed will not work)
1/2 tsp black peppercorns
1/2 tsp dried red pepper flakes
2 small chilies {optional}

MAKE THE BRINE: In a saucepan, bring water, vinegars, salt, sugar, and pickling spices, to a boil. Once the mixture has boiled and the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat, set aside and allow it to come to room temperature.

BLANCH THE GREEN BEANS: Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
Add the green beans and allow them to cook for 1 minute. Drain green beans and immediately put in a bowl of ice water for 5 minutes. Drain the beans again and set aside.

ASSEMBLE THE DILLY BEANS: Equally divide onions, garlic, peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and optional chilies in the bottom of clean jars (2 one-quart jars or 4 pint jars).  Pack beans lengthwise in the jars. Tuck some of the dill amongst the beans. Pour the brine over the beans, put a lid on the jars and keep them on the counter for 12 hours. After 12 hours, transfer the jars to the fridge. Allow them to sit in the fridge for at least 2 days before eating.

NOTES: Use the freshest beans you can find. The fresher the beans, the crispier the finished product. Beans no bigger than a pencil are best, but not tiny haricot vert. This recipe is not safe for canning, but they will keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 6 months.

Cheena’s Cilantro Mousse

2 bunches of fresh cilantro - leaves only
2 sprigs of parsley - leaves only
1 clove of pressed fresh garlic
1/2 medium jalapeno pepper (remove seeds)
1 can (7.6 ounces) Nestle's Media Crema (found in Publix canned milk section) 

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 envelope of Knox gelatin dissolved in 1/4 cup water
Dash of salt

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend on high. Spray a four-cup mold with non-stick spray. Add mousse, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Unmold and serve with plain crackers or bruschetta toasts.

Oatmeal and Apple Pancakes

1 large apple
2/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

1/3 cup flour 
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
Extra-virgin olive oil for frying
Maple syrup and butter for serving

Dice apple and microwave for three minutes. Place other ingredients in a blender, add cooled apples, and blend. Bake on medium or slightly lower as you would regular pancakes.  Make small pancakes about 3-4 inches across, as they are very tender, and if larger will be hard to turn.

Spinach and Orzo

2 Tbsp. butter 

4 large scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced or about 1/2 large sweet onion, chopped fine

2 large cloves garlic, minced

8 oz. baby spinach leaves (8 cups), coarsely chopped

1 tsp. Kosher salt, or to taste

1 3/4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable stock (1 can)

1 cup orzo

1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest from one lemon

3/4 cup (3 oz,) crumbled feta

1/2 cup frozen green peas

1 cup chopped fresh dill (or parsley, mint, or combo)

Squeeze of lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

One can white beans or garbanzos, drained (optional)

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.  Add onions and garlic and sauté until they soften. Add orzo and toast until slightly browned. Stir in the spinach, adding in batches if it doesn’t fit: add 1/2 teaspoon salt. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally until the spinach is wilted, about five minutes.

Stir in the stock and bring to a simmer. Add lemon zest, cover and simmer over medium low heat until orzo is nearly cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed, 10 to 15 minutes, stirring once or twice. Add the peas, dill, cheese, and optional beans and cook for another minute or until peas and beans are warm. Squeeze half a lemon over, Add salt and pepper to taste, and serve sprinkled with more scallions and cheese, if desired. 

This is a yummy recipe from New York Times. I could eat it every day.

Ukrainian Breakfast Cheesecake. (Zapekanka)

2 cups (500 g) cottage cheese or farmer's cheese (drained if wet)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream or plain yogurt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (75 g) raisins (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F.  In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, sour cream (or yogurt), vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt.  Use a hand mixer or food processor to blend the mixture until smooth. The mixture should be creamy but still have some texture from the cottage cheese.  If using raisins or lemon zest, fold them into the mixture gently.

Grease a round or square baking dish (about 8x8 inches or similar) with butter to prevent sticking.  Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.  Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove the zapekanka from the oven and let it cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.  Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into slices and serve warm or at room temperature.

Optional toppings:Fresh berries or fruit preserves, Honey or maple syrup,  A dollop of sour cream or whipped cream.  

Zapekanka is a traditional Ukrainian cheesecake made primarily with cottage cheese or farmer's cheese, giving it a creamy texture and rich flavor. This dessert is often enjoyed as a sweet treat for breakfast or dessert and can be topped with various fruits or drizzled with honey.

Spiral Spanikopita

16 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and water squeezed out (ie. use a clean dish towel)

1 stick unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup)

1/2 cup olive oil, divided

1/2 large onion, finely chopped
4 scallions, sliced

1/4 cup curly parsley, chopped 

2 Tbsp. fresh dill, chopped
8 oz. feta, crumbled
2 eggs, whisked
Salt & pepper to taste
Generous dash of ground nutmeg
1 roll phyllo sheets (16 sheets)
Sesame seeds

Preheat oven to 375 °F.  Melt the butter in a bowl and add 1/4 cup olive oil. Or use all butter or all oil, your choice! 

Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and scallions until soft. Add the dill, parsley, spinach, salt & pepper & nutmeg, sauté a few more minutes until any extra water has evaporated. It should be fairly dry, not juicy. Leave to cool a little, then scoop it into a big bowl. Crumble in the feta and add the whisked eggs, stir until mixed.

Lay a phyllo sheet on your work surface. Brush with some of the melted butter/oil, then lay another sheet on top of that and brush again with butter. Spread about 4 Tbsp. of the filling in a line along the longest edge of the pastry. Roll loosely into a long sausage (don’t roll it too tight as this might cause the pastry to split), then coil the pastry and put in the centre of an oven proof baking pan.

Repeat with the rest of the pastry and filling, arranging the coils around the central one. Brush the tops with more butter, then sprinkle with the sesame seeds. Bake for 25-30 mins until golden and crisp.

Chia Pudding

Ingredient	1 serving	4 servings	8 servings (1 qt.)
Unsweetened almond milk	1/2 cup	2 cups	4 cups
Chia seeds	2Tbsp.	1/2 cup	1 cup
Maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup	2 tsp.	2 1/2 Tbsp.	5 Tbsp.
Vanilla, lemon  or almond extract	1/4 tsp.	1 tsp.	2 tsp.
Cinnamon	1/4 tsp.	1 tsp.	2 tsp.
Salt	Small pinch	Generous pinch	1/2 tsp.
Cocoa powder (optional)	1 Tbsp.	1/4 cup.	1/2 cup

Topping suggestions:

Fresh berries
Chopped nuts or granola
Coconut flakes
Maple syrup

Greek yogurt

Sliced banana

Grated chocolate

In a bowl, combine all ingredients and stir well.  Cover and refrigerate.  Stir every half hour, taking care to incorporate any chia that has clumped at the bottom of the bowl. Continue to stir every half hour until chia seeds no longer sink to the bottom, and the pudding is the same texture all the way through.  Continue chilling for 8 hours or overnight for the pudding to set.  Serve with toppings of choice. Once the pudding has set, it can be stored in the refrigerator in a covered container up to five days.  If it thickens too much, add small amounts of almond milk until it is of the desired consistency.

Pyry z Gzikiem — Polish cottage salad with potatoes

9-10 oz dry farmers cheese or drained cottage cheese
1 cup sour cream (or Greek style yogurt)
Spring onions
Few radishes
Bunch dill
Bunch parsley
Salt, freshly ground black pepper
5 medium potatoes
2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon oregano

The best are new potatoes. Wash potatoes. Peel them if you wish. Cut potatoes in halves, place in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of oil, season with salt, sprinkle with oregano. Mix to cover all the potatoes with seasonings. Spread potatoes on a baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes in 360 F till cooked.

In the meantime, make salad. Combine cheese and sour cream. Chop or grate vegetables and herbs. Mix together and add salt and pepper.  You can also add other vegetables, such as cucumber, peppers, etc.

Serve the potatoes topped with the salad.

Sourdough Recipes

Bulk fermentation (BF) starts when the starter is mixed with the dough.

Link to the following chart:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1omgTTC0N8Fa2DDNiXoTyUooBfGCcqI8G/view?usp=drivesdk

My Recipe and Timetable Template

To convert a dry yeast recipe to use sourdough Starter

Starter — Maintaining, Drying, Reconstituting

My Hydration and Ratio Calculator

Boule Recipes and Timeline

Cinnamon Swirl Batard Recipe and Timetable

Sandwich Loaves Recipe and Timeline.

Loaf video. https://www.facebook.com/61574034204366/videos/640987758804022/?fs=e&fs=e

Oaza Bakeries Pumpernickel

Seeded Semolina.Bread

Discard Pizza or Flatbread

English Muffins

Muffin tin rolls

Bagels

Cheese Crackers

Bulk Ferment Discard Pancakes

Brioche Cinnamon Rolls

Buckwheat Pancakes/Crepes/Blini

Wraps/Tortillas

Brownies.

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Inclusions —  Methods and Ideas

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Great sourdough reference:  https://thesourdoughjourney.com/

Alternative Boule Ratios:  

A Standard recipe:  

100 g starter

325 g water

500;g flour

12 g salt 

Or

350 water, 

500 flour, 

150 starter, 

10 salt

Or

100 grams sourdough starter, bubbly and active, 

325 grams water, 

30 grams honey, 

250 grams all purpose flour, 

125 grams bread flour, 

100 grams whole wheat flour, 

10 grams salt

Or

2 boules 

800 grams of KA organic bread flour

200 grams of costcos organic all purpose flour 

650 grams of warm filtered water 

200 grams of active starter

25 grams of raw honey

25 grams of avocado oil

26 grams of salt 

Cold Dutch oven 

Bake at 500 for 35 minutes, lid on 

425 uncovered for 10 minutes 

internal temperature 205

Mix all ingredients and let sit for 30 mts

4 stretch and fold every 30mts

Then bulk ferment 4-11 hrs depending on temperature 

1st pre shape then let rest for 30 mts final shape then put in banatons, let sit 5 minutes then stitch and put in fridge to cold retard and bake the next morning. 

Polish Creamy Cranberry Relish with Horseradish

2 cups whole cranberries, fresh or frozen
1/2 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped
3/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, or more to taste

Pulse the cranberries and onions in a food processor until finally ground. Do not make a purée, you want some texture. Stir in the sour cream, sugar, salt, and horseradish. Adjust to taste. Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to 10 days.  Great with turkey, on turkey sandwiches, or with any pork recipe.

Chocolate Banana Bundt Cake

8 oz. (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1/2 cup natural cocoa powder 

1 tablespoon instant espresso powder

1 cup water
About 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (10 ounces or 238g)

2 cups dark brown sugar (15 ounces; 426g)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt; for table salt, use half as much by volume
1 1/2 cups coarsely mashed ripe bananas from 3 medium bananas (12 ounces or 340g)
1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature

3 large eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar

Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 350°F. Grease Bundt pan with baking spray.   In a medium saucepan, combine butter, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is combined, about 2 minutes.

In a large bowl, whisk flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to combine. Whisk in cocoa mixture, followed by bananas, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla, until smooth.  Fold in walnuts.

Scrape batter into prepared pan and bake until tester inserted in center of cake comes out clean, about 45 minutes.  Transfer cake to cooling rack and cool 10 minutes, then invert directly onto rack and cool to room temperature, about 1 hour. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar using a fine-mesh strainer and serve.

Hasselback Potatoes

4 medium russet potatoes

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, chopped)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).  Wash the potatoes thoroughly and dry them with a towel. Place each potato on a cutting board and, using a wooden spoon or chopstick on either side of the potato as a guide, slice the potatoes into thin, even slices, being careful not to cut all the way through the bottom (leaving about 1/4 inch intact). This will create the Hasselback effect, where the potato fans out slightly.  Place the sliced potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme together.  Brush the garlic-butter mixture generously over the potatoes, making sure to get some of the butter into the slices.  Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges, and tender on the inside (test with a fork). After about 20 minutes, baste the potatoes with any leftover butter mixture to ensure they stay moist and flavorful.

Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.  Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.  Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

German Stollen

For the Dough:

1 cup lukewarm whole milk
3 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour NOTE: Amount will vary depending on how much liquid is in your fruit/nut mixture. Be sure to drain any excess liquid. Add more flour as needed if dough is too wet. (Gluten free, substitute 1:1 GF flour.)
1 large egg
2 large egg yolks
3/4 cup unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks) , at room temperature so it’s very soft
2 teaspoons quality pure vanilla extract
Zest of one lemon
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

3/4 teaspoon ground mace (recommended but can substitute nutmeg)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
8 ounces Homemade Marzipan/Almond Paste , divided in half (you can omit the marzipan if you prefer)
or store-bought marzipan/almond paste

For the Fruits & Nuts:
9 ounces raisins
3 ounces candied lemon peel , finely diced
3 ounces candied orange peel , finely diced  (recommend using homemade, it makes ALL the difference!)
3 ounces blanched slivered or sliced almonds, finely chopped

1/3 cup quality dark rum

For the Glaze & Dusting:
1 stick unsalted butter, melted

Powdered sugar for generous dusting

INSTRUCTIONS

Place the raisins, candied citrus peel and almonds in a medium bowl and pour the rum over it. Stir to combine. Set aside and let the fruit mixture soak in the rum while the dough rises.

Stir the yeast and 2 tablespoons of the sugar into the lukewarm milk and let sit in a warm place for 10-15 minutes until very frothy.  Place the flour, remaining sugar, egg, egg yolks, butter, vanilla extract, lemon zest, salt, cardamom, mace and cinnamon in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add the yeast/milk mixture. Use a spoon to stir the mixture until it comes together. Knead the dough on the bread setting for 7-8 minutes. Remove the dough ball, lightly spray the bowl with a little oil, return the dough ball, cover loosely with plastic wrap and place it in a warm place or lightly warmed oven (just barely warm), to rise until nearly doubled in size, at least 1 hour (likely closer to 2 hours depending on the temperature of the environment).

Punch down the dough and add the soaked fruit/nut mixture to the dough (it should have absorbed all the rum by now but if there is excess liquid, pour it out before adding the mixture to the dough). Using the dough hook, knead the fruit/nut mixture into the dough until combined. If the dough is too wet to handle, add a little bit of flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and cut it in two equal halves. Press or roll each piece into an oval to about 1 inch thickness. Roll each piece of marzipan into a log the length of the oval. Press the marzipan gently into the middle of the dough. Fold the left side of the dough over to cover the marzipan, then fold right side over on top of the left side so that the edge of it sits just left of the middle of the stollen.   In other words, don’t fold the right side all the way over to the left edge of the stollen. Pinch and tuck the top and bottom ends of the stollen to cover the marzipan. Use the bottom edge of your hand to press down along the length of the stollen towards the right of the center to create a divot and characteristic hump.  

Place the stollen on a lined baking sheet. Cover the stollen loosely with plastic wrap and let them rest in a warm place or lightly warmed oven for 40-60 minutes until puffy. At that point you can pick off any raisins that are sticking out of the dough (they will burn during baking). 

Towards the end of the last rise, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and bake the stollen for 30-40 minutes or until golden. You can use an instant read thermometer to aim for an internal temperature of 190 degrees F. Let the Stollen sit for 5 minutes, then use a toothpick to poke holes all over the stollen (this will allow the butter to seep in), then generously brush the stollen with the melted butter while the stollen are still warm. Immediately sprinkle with a generous amount of powdered sugar, rubbing it into the creases and down the sides. Let the stollen cool completely. You may want to give it another dusting of powdered sugar once cooled.

The stollen can be sliced and eaten now or wrapped tightly (wrap in plastic wrap then foil) and left to "ripen" in a cool place for 2 weeks. The liquid from the dried fruits will further penetrate the dough for more flavor and moisture. Stollen can also be frozen for longer storage.

Makes 2 large or 3 medium Stollen.

For eating, warm the slices up for a few seconds in the microwave, it makes the crumb nice and soft.

My mother used to make a simpler version of this delicious Christmas bread. She baked it in a coffee can and would often glaze it with frosting and take it to neighbors as Christmas gift. As I remember it, her version was basically a slightly sweetened yeast bread with fruit, and maybe some almonds worked into it. I don’t think she used any powdered sugar on it, but I do remember really loving the bread and also the trips to neighbors to deliver it for a Christmas morning treat.

To make your own marzipan or almond paste (it’s really easy, takes five minutes):

1 1/2 cups very finely ground blanched almond flour
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons pure almond extract
1 teaspoon food grade rose water

1 egg white OR 3 tablespoons water OR 3 tablespoons liquid sweetener such as agave syrup, corn syrup, etc.

INSTRUCTIONS

Place the almond flour and powdered sugar in a food processor and pulse until combined and any lumps are broken up. Add the almond extract and rose water and pulse to combine. Add the egg white or water/liquid sweetener and process until a thick dough is formed. If the mass is still too wet and sticky, add some more almond flour. If it's too firm to shape well, just add a tiny bit of water. Keep in mind that the marzipan will become firmer after it's been refrigerated.  Turn the marzipan out onto a work surface and knead it a few times. Form it into a log, wrap it up in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Will keep for at least a month in the refrigerator or up to 6 months in the freezer. Bring to room temperature before using in any recipe. Makes 13-14 ounces.

NOTES:  To make a firmer Marzipan that you can shape into figures for decorations, add 1/4 cup or more of sugar until you reach the desired level of firmness (keep in mind it will also become firmer after it refrigerates). 

Basque Cheesecake

1¾ cups granulated sugar
2¼ pounds/36 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
¼ teaspoon kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)
5 large eggs
2 cups heavy cream

1/4 cup all-purpose. flour

Place a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 10-inch springform pan with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper, leaving 2 to 3 inches overhanging the top of the
pan. (Crunching the parchment into a ball and then wetting before you spread it out will help it cling to the shape of the pan and remain in place.)

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the sugar and cream cheese until smooth. Add the salt and mix. Add the eggs one by one and beat until fully incorporated. Beat in the cream. Sift in the flour, then mix it in on low.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until browned and almost burnt on top, 50 to 60 minutes. The center will still be quite jiggly. Remove the cake from the oven and cool completely on a rack. It will have risen significantly, nearly past the top of the pan, but it will sink in the center as it cools.

Before serving, remove the rim of the springform and gently tug away the parchment paper. Serve at room temperature.  Leave the parchment under the cake, but you can cut it right up to the edge so that it doesn’t show if you like.

Serve with Roselle sauce and whipped cream for a spectacular dessert.

Apple Pie Cake

4-5 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of ½ lemon

2 eggs

½ cup sugar (100 g)

1 teaspoon vanilla
⅓ cup milk (100 ml)
1 ½ tablespoons melted butter (20 g)
⅔ cup flour (80 g)
1 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt

Cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350°F). Slice the apples into even pieces, mix with lemon juice and zest and set aside. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar and vanilla together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the milk and butter and mix well to combine. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt and fold gradually into the wet mixture, stirring umtil smooth.  

Grease an 8” springform baking pan with butter.  Arrange the sliced apples evenly across the bottom of the greased pan.  Sprinkle with cinnamon.  Pour the batter over the apples, spreading it evenly to cover the slices.  Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.  Allow the apple pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Omelet Loaded Potato Skins

2 medium russet potatoes

Olive oil spray or butter spray
2 large eggs
3 egg whites
2 tbsp milk
2 thin slices ham, chopped
2 tbsp chopped onion
1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped

2 Tbsp. chopped jalapeño or other peppers 
salt and fresh pepper
4 tbsp cheddar cheese

Pierce potato with a fork a few times all around.  Bake in 400 degree oven or place in microwave and cook about 5 minutes per potato.  When finished, allow to cool enough to handle.  Cut potatoes in half horizontally.  Scoop out potatoes leaving about 1/4 inch thick wall.

Heat oven to 450°.  Lightly spray potato skins on both sides with oil.  Season both sides with salt and pepper.   Place on sheet pan and return skins to the oven to crisp while making eggs.  In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt and pepper.  Add onion, pepper and ham and mix well.  Add some of the scooped out potato if you wish.  Spray a medium nonstick skillet with olive oil spray and cook the eggs, mixing often.

Remove potato skins from oven and fill with eggs. Top each one with 1 tbsp cheese and bake 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Use the scooped out potato flesh, to make hash browns, potato cakes, mashed potatoes, etc. 

To prepare ahead—bake potatoes, and scoop out. Store in refrigerator. When ready to use heat oven to 450 and spray potatoes on both sides with oil, seasoning with salt and pepper, place on sheet pan and put in oven. Prepare eggs as described and when ready remove potatoes from oven, and complete recipe as described. 

Waldorf Salad

2 cups diced tart apples, or 2 apples
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 cup diced celery
1 cup grapes, halved
1½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

1½ cups mayonnaise
1½ teaspoon kosher salt

Add the diced apples to a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with the sugar and lemon juice. Toss to coat. Add the celery, grapes, and nuts.  Mix the mayonnaise and sour cream and fold into the apple mixture and season with salt.  Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Chill for an hour or overnight.

For added interest:  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  Place the grapes on a baking tray, finely grate over the zest from ½ lemon, drizzle with a little oil and season with sea salt and black pepper.

Place in the hot oven for 15 minutes, then add the walnuts or pecans and roast for a further 5 to 10 minutes, or until the grapes are soft and caramelized and the nuts are golden.  Cool and add to salad.  Or just roast half the grapes and leave the other half fresh.  

Other options: add a little English mustard to your dressing; add some fresh or dried tarragon.

Brunswick Stew in the Crockpot

2 lbs. smoked pork 
1 lb. smoked chicken 
4 cups chicken broth 
2 cans stewed tomatoes 
1 can tomato sauce 
1 can rotel diced tomatoes 
2 cans whole kernel corn/drained 
1 bag frozen baby limas 
1 diced onion/sauteed 
1 diced Russet potato 
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 
2 tbsp. Srichacha 
Ketchup to taste
Salt and pepper to taste.
Add/delete to your taste

Slow simmer all day in crock pot.  Serve with cornbread. 

Pierogi Casserole

12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Parsley, dill, minced

Sour cream

2 onions, chopped fine

1/2 cup butter.  

Fry onions in butter until translucent and golden.  Divide in half and set half aside for topping.  Divide again and use half (1/4 of total) in each of the following mixtures.

Mix:
2 cups regular creamed cottage cheese 

1 egg

1/4 of the fried onions

Mix: (you can add extras like fried bacon, spinach, etc. if you choose.)

2 cups mashed potatoes

1/4 of the fried onions 

1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Place three lasagna noodles on bottom of 9 x 13 baking dish, add half of the potato mixture. Add another layer of noodles then all of cottage cheese mixture, cover with noodles again, and add the rest of the potatoes. Top with the remaining lasagna noodles, add cheddar cheese.  Pour reserved half of the onions and any remaining butter over noodles, cover with foil, bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting, sprinkle with herbs, serve with sour cream.

One Pot Chicken Pot Pie

2 1⁄ 2 cups (20 ounces) low-sodium chicken broth 

1 Tablespoon Better than Bouillon Roast Chicken Base 

6 Tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter 

1 1⁄ 2 cups chopped onion (1 large onion) 

1 cup diced carrots (2 to 3 medium carrots, peeled) 

1 cup diced celery (3 to 4 stalks) 

1 pound (16 ounces) skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces 

6 Tablespoons (1.875 ounces) all-purpose flour

1⁄ 4 teaspoon black pepper 

1 cup (5 ounces) frozen green peas 

2 Tablespoons (1 ounce) heavy cream 

16 to 24 ounces of frozen tater tots, depending on the size of your baking dish 

Whisk together the chicken broth and Better than Bouillon Roast Chicken Base. Set aside.

Melt butter over medium heat in a large ovenproof skillet. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 15 minutes. Add the chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink, 5 to 7 minutes.  Add the flour and pepper; stir to combine.  Cook for 2 minutes. Add the chicken broth mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly.

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes or until the carrots and celery are done. Remove the cover; add the frozen peas and the cream. Stir to combine. Remove from the heat. Chicken mixture can be prepared in advance up to this point.

Preheat oven to 425°F.  Starting at the outer edge, arrange the tater tots over the filling in a circular fashion. Bake uncovered in the preheated 425°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown.  Yield: 6 servings.

Cranberry Glazed Roasted Vegetables

For the Roasted Vegetables:

1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Cranberry Glaze:

1/2 cup cranberry juice
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

For the Finishing Touch:

4 oz goat cheese, Feta, Blue cheese or Queso fresco, crumbled
1/2 cup dried cranberries (for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Roast the Vegetables:  Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).  In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme until well coated.  Spread the vegetables on a large baking sheet in a single layer.  Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.

While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the cranberry glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry juice, dried cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), and balsamic vinegar.   Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a glaze.

Assemble:  Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them to a large serving bowl.  Drizzle the cranberry glaze over the roasted vegetables and gently toss to coat.  Sprinkle the crumbled cheese and extra dried cranberries on top.  Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve.

Fiesta Dip

 1 can Rotel tomatoes

2 cups (16 oz) low-fat cottage cheese

1 Tbsp. Taco seasoning 

1 Tbsp. Ranch seasoning

  (Or 2 Tbsp. of one or the other)

2 cups (8 oz.) Fiesta blend shredded cheese

Drain Rotel reserving juice.  Add the juice along with cottage cheese and seasonings to a food processor and process until smooth and creamy. Add the drained tomatoes and shredded cheese and pulse about five times,  just enough to combine. Serve with chips, veggies, etc..

Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Great for Purple Sweet Potatoes

Boil or roast sweet potatoes, and mash until smooth.  

Make flavored syrup:

6 to 8 oz. pineapple juice (or orange)

Brown Sugar and/or Honey
Star Anise (about 3) 

Fresh Ginger or Crystalized Ginger

Maybe some cinnamon and/or nutmeg
(or use Japanese 5-spice powder in lieu of the other spices)

Cook down until syrupy. Remove solids.
Add a little butter. Stir into your warm mashed sweet potatoes. Yum!

Purple sweet potatoes are denser than orange ones, and not quite as sweet with a mealier texture. They are best when boiled or roasted and then mashed with a flavoring syrup recommended by my sister. It would be delicious with any variety of sweet potatoes. For lots more information about purple sweet potatoes, and the different varieties look here.

Chick-fil-A Carrot Salad

4 ½ cups freshly shredded carrots (1lb.)
1 (8oz) can or 2/3 cup crushed pineapple with juice

1/2 cup raisins 

1/2 cup mayonnaise 

1/4 cup sugar

About 2 tablespoons fresh, unstrained lemon juice (no seeds) from half a lemon

Mix all together and refrigerate or serve at once.  

This salad was one of the main reasons I ever go to Chick-fil-A other than at the request of a grandchild. They no longer serve it, but I found the recipe on the Chick-fil-A website.  I make it often, altered it to my taste (not quite as sweet).

Basil Oil Sauce

1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, stemmed and washed

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons water
4 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Place the basil, water, garlic, salt and red pepper flakes in a mini-food processor and pulse a few times. Add the olive oil and blend until you have smooth sauce.   Use immediately or refrigerate. Flavors are even more intense the next day. Refrigerate for up to 2 to 3 days.

Good to drizzle over steamed or roasted vegetables, potatoes, use as a bread dip, use your imagination.