tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25471487773976128142024-03-13T10:31:08.611-07:00Feeding a family with love and great food!Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.comBlogger166125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-78335541929174557832013-07-15T07:03:00.001-07:002013-07-15T07:03:41.140-07:00New Recipes from July 8-15thI took a break from major baking this week and jumped back into cooking!! I set a goal of trying at least one new recipe every day...I even made two some days! You can click on the name of each recipe and it will take you to the actual recipe.<br />
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New Meal #1- Sirloin was a GREAT deal this week, so I used it a couple of ways. No actual recipe- I just made it up as I went along! Here it was simply seasoned with salt and pepper, then topped with a fresh tomato salad (AKA Bruschetta Steak). I combined 2 roma tomoates with 1/4 red onion and LOTS of fresh basil. Season topping with salt.<br />
The rice is brown rice, cooked in beef broth with loads of chopped green onions. Prepare according to package just subbing in broth for water- I added the green onions right before turning off the burner and then put the lid back on and set aside.<br />
The corn was cooked in the microwave (wrap in waxed paper and cook approx 3 min per ear). I threw it on my grill pan for a minute after it came out of the microwave. I brushed the hot corn with a compound butter I had made. Combine 2 dried red chilies, zest of one lime and half a stick of butter in a chopster or food processor. Salt optional.<br />
Family review: Everyone LOVED this meal!! A repeat for sure. <br />
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New Meal #2- This was my FAVORITE!!!<br />
<a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/05/vietnamese-shaking-beef-bo-luc-lac.html">Vietnamese Shaking Beef</a>- I didn't have Oyster sauce or Fish sauce, so that made it a little expensive, but I know I will use them a lot now! I used low sodium soy sauce in place of the thick soy. I marinated the beef for about 90 minutes. The lime juice with salt and pepper was such a simple dip that really enhanced the flavor. DO NOT overcook the beef- it's so tender!<br />
Served with steamed snow peas- I also tossed them in the skillet after cooking the beef just to reheat and they picked up the flavor...tasty!<br />
I cooked udon noodles in chicken broth with fresh sliced baby bellas and lots of green onion. I added about 1 TBS each of Oyster sauce and soy sauce.<br />
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New Meal #3- Orzo with Parmesan and Basil, Tequila Lime Shrimp and fresh green beans<br />
I marinated the shrimp (shell on) in 1/3 cup tequila, 2 tsp olive oil, plus the juice and zest of one lime- about 20 min at room temp. I grilled with the shells on and then peeled right before serving.<br />
The <a href="http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/main-courses/orzo-with-parmesan-and-basil-2/">Orzo with Parmesan and Basil</a> was the star of this meal!! So creamy and delicious :)<br />
I just steamed the green beans and seasoned with a little garlic salt<br />
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New Meal #4- BLT's with Basil Mayo on Chipotle Cheddar Bread<br />
I mixed 1 cup of fresh basil leaves with 1/2 cup mayo and small clove of garlic- puree in food processor and chill at least 2 hours.<br />
Pretty basic otherwise- Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato, a BIG schmear of mayo and good bread. Mine was homemade - Asiago would be great for this!<br />
Served with plain sweet corn.<br />
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New Meal #5- Basil Lime Chicken with Roasted Red Potatoes and Green Beans<br />
This took chicken to a whole new level. AMAZING!! I used a recipe I found on Pinterest for <a href="http://goodenessgracious.com/2012/01/basil-lime-chicken.html">Basil Lime Chicken</a> and it did not disappoint. I did not change a thing! I did serve mine over fresh chopped tomatoes- which was so good. The sauce was awesome over the potatoes and green beans too!! <br />
The green beans were just steamed. The red potatoes were quartered and then tossed with olive oil and salt. Baked at 400 until tender (approx 30? min).<br />
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New Meal #6- Sweet Corn and Bacon Skillet Mac and Cheese<br />
I was reading Iowa Girl Eat's blog last week as I was looking for new recipes. Her recent post on <a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2013/07/11/sweet-corn-and-bacon-skillet-mac-cheese/">Sweet Corn and Bacon Skillet Mac and Cheese</a> instantly caught my eye! It was very easy to prepare, and ok, but I probably wouldn't make it again. It's a great recipe, I just didn't love the sauce. My kids did not like it at all, but my husband liked it more than me. I will say the tomatoes on top totally work- they were the perfect pop of fresh!<br />
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New Meal #7- Jalapeno Buttermilk Brined Chicken- made into tacos with fresh Pico<br />
The package of chicken breasts I bought was huge- so I cooked a few for the Basil Lime Chicken and then threw the others into this<a href="http://www.myinvisiblecrown.com/2013/06/30/jalapeno-buttermilk-brined-grilled-chicken/"> Jalapeno Buttermilk Brine</a> and stashed in the fridge for 48 hours. You could taste the jalapeno in the chicken, but it was not spicy at all. I would add more jalapeno next time- I used fresh jalapenos, sliced into rings. 2 good sized jalapenos, and I did not remove the ribs and seeds. The chicken was super moist and tender after grilling. I sliced it thin and put into tortillas. Topped with a fresh pico - roma tomatoes, red onion and fresh cilantro. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the tacos really made the flavors pop!<br />
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I have a few new recipes in store for this week as well. I'll try to share again next week!!<br />
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<br />Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-612367157968842362011-09-26T17:38:00.000-07:002011-09-26T17:38:49.150-07:00I have many loves :)<div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Yep...life has been busy, and I haven't had time to do much blogging! However, I have been working on perfecting a new recipe- my <a href="http://allrecipes.com/personalrecipe/62912731/kathleens-toasted-ravioli-with-basil-cream-sauce/detail.aspx">Toasted Ravioli with Basil Cream Sauce</a>. It's one of my new favorite meals- great with an ear of Sweet Corn. I use Meat Ravioli, but you could easily use another flavor.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I made my own bread crumbs for this...I toasted up some leftover Asiago Bread and pulsed it in my good processor.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DRZztQPXvw/ToEP3vurHeI/AAAAAAAACfQ/kGqF7Qo52zs/s1600/Ravioli+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DRZztQPXvw/ToEP3vurHeI/AAAAAAAACfQ/kGqF7Qo52zs/s320/Ravioli+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">To the bread crumbs, I added Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, Basil and Garlic Powder.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4vciz8vQb_M/ToEP7HGPtfI/AAAAAAAACfU/0v-06PFlLJE/s1600/Ravioli+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4vciz8vQb_M/ToEP7HGPtfI/AAAAAAAACfU/0v-06PFlLJE/s320/Ravioli+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Place the thawed ravioli in a mixture of eggs and water.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aQOnRe7atCI/ToEP_etIWBI/AAAAAAAACfY/Hzzsb32iVQM/s1600/Ravioli+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aQOnRe7atCI/ToEP_etIWBI/AAAAAAAACfY/Hzzsb32iVQM/s320/Ravioli+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Roll in bread crumbs until evenly coated.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u-CRkGNinko/ToEQDheDB2I/AAAAAAAACfc/SbEwhPFSDuM/s1600/Ravioli+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u-CRkGNinko/ToEQDheDB2I/AAAAAAAACfc/SbEwhPFSDuM/s320/Ravioli+009.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Place on a baking rack...you can bake directly on the pan, but then you should flip them while baking.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dF8YBTkCk5s/ToEQJVmVfbI/AAAAAAAACfg/2kl53-cZ1rI/s1600/Ravioli+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dF8YBTkCk5s/ToEQJVmVfbI/AAAAAAAACfg/2kl53-cZ1rI/s320/Ravioli+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">After all are coated, spray with cooking spray and place in a 400 degree oven for 25 minutes.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9qsqw6rxO7g/ToEQNpzxCXI/AAAAAAAACfk/p_HU2bGehZo/s1600/Ravioli+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9qsqw6rxO7g/ToEQNpzxCXI/AAAAAAAACfk/p_HU2bGehZo/s320/Ravioli+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">While they bake, make the cream sauce. Heat 3/4 cup of Heavy Cream over Medium High heat for 1-2 minutes, until it starts to thicken. </div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ba604XynVEc/ToEQRldKP2I/AAAAAAAACfo/XtF9wmyLqrA/s1600/Ravioli+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ba604XynVEc/ToEQRldKP2I/AAAAAAAACfo/XtF9wmyLqrA/s320/Ravioli+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Stir in the pesto and cheese.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2aFUnQpjZ0g/ToEQWdfWkvI/AAAAAAAACfs/vO9cnh0dYDY/s1600/Ravioli+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2aFUnQpjZ0g/ToEQWdfWkvI/AAAAAAAACfs/vO9cnh0dYDY/s320/Ravioli+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Serve hot ravioli with a generous side of the sauce!!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-84135876657743436162011-08-07T18:00:00.000-07:002011-08-07T18:00:58.257-07:00A recipe created just for Pizza Lovers!<div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">I saw this recipe from Rachael Ray and tucked it away for a day I needed something "fun" to make for Robyn. Today I was struggling with a lunch plan...and then I remembered <a href="http://www.rachaelraymag.com/Recipes/rachael-ray-magazine-recipe-search/budget-recipes/pepperoni-pizza-puffs">Pizza Puffs</a>!!</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">Easy enough- I always have everything on hand. I added Garlic Salt and Italian Seasoning to mine.</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">The recipe says to add the basil at the end and sprinkle on top, but I chose to put mine inside.</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">Everything is better with cheese!!</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">Fill a mini muffin pan. GREASE WELL!!!! I found these to be a little tricky to get out of the pan. They were actually easier to remove after they cooled a bit. I used a Tablespoon and it filled 24 cups perfectly. Bake about 20 minutes at 375 degrees and allow to cool a few minutes before eating.</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEEomTdQcjo/Tj7OfXzy38I/AAAAAAAACdo/oN0A7YzI5Y4/s1600/pizza+puffs+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEEomTdQcjo/Tj7OfXzy38I/AAAAAAAACdo/oN0A7YzI5Y4/s320/pizza+puffs+007.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">Serve with your favorite pizza sauce!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">***Robyn and I loved these! Fun because you can easily add whatever toppings you love. Rachael also details in her recipe how to freeze them!***</span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-42637046722310513232011-08-05T18:10:00.000-07:002011-08-05T18:24:37.171-07:00I don't love heating up the kitchen when it's so hot outside!<div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">Let's face it...it's been too hot to cook!! My husband and I have been eating lots of salads lately!! However, I was really wanting something a little more exciting, so I used my crock pot to cook up a beef roast. I added dried red chilies, oregano and garlic to the pot as well. The result was super tender and slightly spicy shredded beef... <a href="http://feedingafamilywithloveandgreatfood.blogspot.com/2011/04/we-love-any-meal-with-mexican-flavors.html">click here for the beef recipe.</a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">The 1st night, I used small tortillas...<br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v4nR6IEECEg/TjyR1FflZRI/AAAAAAAACdQ/JAM_yfa77Uc/s1600/072811+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v4nR6IEECEg/TjyR1FflZRI/AAAAAAAACdQ/JAM_yfa77Uc/s320/072811+050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">With cooked peppers and onions...</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AtCKilSwRx8/TjyR54pcIJI/AAAAAAAACdU/6I0JI_iQBIU/s1600/072811+051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AtCKilSwRx8/TjyR54pcIJI/AAAAAAAACdU/6I0JI_iQBIU/s320/072811+051.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">And shredded beef to make quick fajitas- served with sweet corn.<br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m9rcTRyDrnE/TjyR9MTx3pI/AAAAAAAACdY/P1Dl0lnW5_k/s1600/08032011+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m9rcTRyDrnE/TjyR9MTx3pI/AAAAAAAACdY/P1Dl0lnW5_k/s320/08032011+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">The second night, I put beef and Monterey Jack cheese in a large tortilla. I rolled it up and browned on all sides in a hot skillet with a little olive oil. Served with my <a href="http://allrecipes.com/personalrecipe/62376232/kathleens-kickin-corn-salad/detail.aspx">Kickin corn Salad</a>!</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">My crock pot made dinner for two nights with enough leftovers for lunch without heating up the kitchen!<br />
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And for those that need a baby fix...Lucas at 8 weeks :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i9x40K1kDms/TjyXJDiN5jI/AAAAAAAACdc/rhCqOExvL3E/s1600/08032011+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i9x40K1kDms/TjyXJDiN5jI/AAAAAAAACdc/rhCqOExvL3E/s320/08032011+035.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Playing with Big Sister :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YaTtsSVGuY/TjyXNNkdB5I/AAAAAAAACdg/S2gmRRV8nU8/s1600/08052011+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YaTtsSVGuY/TjyXNNkdB5I/AAAAAAAACdg/S2gmRRV8nU8/s320/08052011+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Bath time in a mixing bowl<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-klRb0MKlNYo/TjyXSE0OHDI/AAAAAAAACdk/-7SOhyNvd4Y/s1600/08052011+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-klRb0MKlNYo/TjyXSE0OHDI/AAAAAAAACdk/-7SOhyNvd4Y/s320/08052011+017.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Robyn brought him all her favorites :)</div></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-78934899907030364262011-07-18T19:00:00.000-07:002011-07-18T19:00:38.241-07:00Who wouldn't love cake for breakfast?<div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">I get Rachael Ray's magazine...and although I LOVE reading food magazines, I don't usually follow the recipes. I like to read them for ideas and inspiration! In the latest issue of Everyday with Rachael Ray, they feature a section on things to do with a box of cake mix. One of those ideas...pancakes!! I knew these wouldn't be a "healthy" breakfast, but a very fun one :) With a new baby at home, I'm trying hard to do something special every day with my 3 year old. A few days ago, I decided the time was right to bust out the "birthday cake pancakes!"</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4XJBy0n105U/TiTiQFUtipI/AAAAAAAACc0/81uj0fNJksQ/s1600/lucas7152011+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4XJBy0n105U/TiTiQFUtipI/AAAAAAAACc0/81uj0fNJksQ/s320/lucas7152011+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">So easy- just start with a box of yellow or white cake mix,eggs, oil and sprinkles! </div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0v7yrirLWI/TiTiTT8o4kI/AAAAAAAACc4/QNt5uxr_5GA/s1600/lucas7152011+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0v7yrirLWI/TiTiTT8o4kI/AAAAAAAACc4/QNt5uxr_5GA/s320/lucas7152011+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Mix batter according to the directions on the box- I added LOTS of sprinkles :)</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ceF6N0aWlEo/TiTiWmSofQI/AAAAAAAACc8/2u7ARS1T4ss/s1600/lucas7152011+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ceF6N0aWlEo/TiTiWmSofQI/AAAAAAAACc8/2u7ARS1T4ss/s320/lucas7152011+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> Heat a skillet or griddle, add a little oil and add batter like making any other pancakes. These did take a little longer to cook...do them over lower heat so they cook through without burning.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RJE20UP3pJk/TiTie1WXehI/AAAAAAAACdE/x7lZxpG-hGU/s1600/lucas7152011+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RJE20UP3pJk/TiTie1WXehI/AAAAAAAACdE/x7lZxpG-hGU/s320/lucas7152011+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Top with a glaze of powdered sugar and milk...plus a few more sprinkles! Not your ordinary breakfast, but fun for that special little person in your life :)</div><br />
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</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-5250480362470665662011-07-10T19:22:00.000-07:002011-07-10T19:22:24.229-07:00Brownies baked with love...and an extra layer of yum!!<div style="color: #351c75;"></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WUSxJXaixlY/ThpapVzqVnI/AAAAAAAACcM/AcTNpG1VYD4/s1600/july102011+052.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">I'm back!!! After "baking" a beautiful new baby, I decided my first venture back to blogging should feature something baked! I've got a nasty sweet tooth lately, and really don't need all the extra calories...so I made something to send to work with my hubby :)</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">This recipe was super easy- and totally delicious. I had to cut the brownies to send with him to work, so I decided to try one :) This recipe belongs to "Keni" and I found it on grouprecipes.com <a href="http://www.grouprecipes.com/86455/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-brownies.html">http://www.grouprecipes.com/86455/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-brownies.html</a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z4NfFyyJGPA/Thpas770mfI/AAAAAAAACcQ/73kVfng0jx4/s1600/july102011+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z4NfFyyJGPA/Thpas770mfI/AAAAAAAACcQ/73kVfng0jx4/s320/july102011+044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Start with you favorite brownie mix- "Family size". Prepare according to Cake-Like instructions (add an extra egg). Bake until it just starts to set...about 5 minutes less than total recommended cook time.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VvBULesLiNY/ThpawI4xJzI/AAAAAAAACcU/uzMRgK5F6_g/s1600/july102011+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VvBULesLiNY/ThpawI4xJzI/AAAAAAAACcU/uzMRgK5F6_g/s320/july102011+045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">While the brownies baked, prepare the cookie dough. I'm not a huge fan of sour cream- but it was great in this recipe!</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Q5zivzaTLM/Thpa0uOdohI/AAAAAAAACcY/5zIdu50MeK0/s1600/july102011+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Q5zivzaTLM/Thpa0uOdohI/AAAAAAAACcY/5zIdu50MeK0/s320/july102011+046.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Cream together the butter an sugars. Something about chocolate chip cookie dough makes me need to use a wooden spoon!</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5GMMeZzJh8w/Thpa7WtCUpI/AAAAAAAACcc/NsPLZBD0ZBA/s1600/july102011+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5GMMeZzJh8w/Thpa7WtCUpI/AAAAAAAACcc/NsPLZBD0ZBA/s320/july102011+047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Add in sour cream, vanilla, baking powder and flour. I also mixed the chocolate chips into the dough instead of putting them on top- I thought they would be less messy to transport.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H3q2UAin_S0/Thpa_Mth9qI/AAAAAAAACcg/lWrQn2aetN0/s1600/july102011+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H3q2UAin_S0/Thpa_Mth9qI/AAAAAAAACcg/lWrQn2aetN0/s320/july102011+048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">When brownies are just set, smash cookie dough between your hands and piece together on top of the brownies.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WNpm6HmsvsI/ThpbDJoi65I/AAAAAAAACck/319RwFcb07U/s1600/july102011+049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WNpm6HmsvsI/ThpbDJoi65I/AAAAAAAACck/319RwFcb07U/s320/july102011+049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Cover the whole pan with a thick layer of the cookie dough and put back in the oven. The recipe says to bake for another 10 minutes...I had to bake mine about 15 minutes.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WmUhRR77hYo/ThpbGyMD-cI/AAAAAAAACco/Bgoe_Unil3g/s1600/july102011+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WmUhRR77hYo/ThpbGyMD-cI/AAAAAAAACco/Bgoe_Unil3g/s320/july102011+050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Oh my yum!! It was hard to let them cool before I cut them!!</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WUSxJXaixlY/ThpapVzqVnI/AAAAAAAACcM/AcTNpG1VYD4/s1600/july102011+052.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WUSxJXaixlY/ThpapVzqVnI/AAAAAAAACcM/AcTNpG1VYD4/s320/july102011+052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">The end result- ooey gooey chocolate bliss! A totally wonderful recipe I will make again for sure!</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-29187645452914035562011-07-02T17:17:00.000-07:002011-07-02T17:17:36.459-07:00I love being home!!<div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b>We brought Lucas home...just 3 weeks after his birth! The Doctors said he broke the mold...technically shouldn't go home for another 2-3 weeks, but they had no reason to keep him!! He weighed 4 lbs 5 oz on the day we brought him home, and we'll find out on Tuesday how much weight he's gained since we've been home. He's a tiny little man, but we love him BIG time!!</b></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8zpLAJuVDA/Tg-0jGKs8fI/AAAAAAAACcA/d7ZYr0pHkqQ/s1600/Lucas+001+-+Copy+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8zpLAJuVDA/Tg-0jGKs8fI/AAAAAAAACcA/d7ZYr0pHkqQ/s320/Lucas+001+-+Copy+-+Copy.JPG" width="240" /></a></b></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b>Mommy and Lucas snuggles :)</b></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"> <b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPOxy39HF6Q/Tg-0pKfLPwI/AAAAAAAACcE/R23EiKci60A/s1600/lucas+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPOxy39HF6Q/Tg-0pKfLPwI/AAAAAAAACcE/R23EiKci60A/s320/lucas+039.JPG" width="240" /></a></b></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b>The proud Big Sister!</b></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"> <b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0C6Gd2gwmE/Tg-0sEZmhlI/AAAAAAAACcI/ihKS0yGeAoM/s1600/lucas+095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0C6Gd2gwmE/Tg-0sEZmhlI/AAAAAAAACcI/ihKS0yGeAoM/s320/lucas+095.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><b>Finally home- and loving his swing :)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-44102053005127852492011-06-01T06:12:00.000-07:002011-06-01T06:12:49.776-07:00Just feeding my family with Love right now...<div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>I realize more people than just my friends read my blog...so I thought I would put out a quick update!!! My cooking days are over for a while...because I am busy cooking a baby! My water ruptured around 30 weeks, and I am now on bed rest in the hospital until our Little Man is ready to make his appearance!</b></span></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> No worries- the hospital food is actually pretty good :)</b></span></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>I miss cooking and blogging- so I will be back some day soon, but in the mean time, I'm baking a baby and feeding my family a little extra love!!</b></span></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
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</b></span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-39944090445186096432011-05-13T11:15:00.000-07:002011-05-13T11:15:39.333-07:00Easy and Cute- 2 things I love!<div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Along with the Jessie Cake I made for Robyn's birthday party, I also just HAD to make these adorable cookies!!! I found them on the <a href="http://family.go.com/disney/pkg-disney-recipes/recipe-787983-jessie-cowgirl-hat-cookies-t/">Disney Family site</a>...and they were quite simple.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gysdXYBXEi8/Tc1yyQ_pYPI/AAAAAAAACbA/2HIY9TfRFeE/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gysdXYBXEi8/Tc1yyQ_pYPI/AAAAAAAACbA/2HIY9TfRFeE/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Start with store bought sugar cookie dough...you can make your own, but I only wanted a few cookies. The log made 12 cookies.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCc-m7GEsws/Tc1y29uWwPI/AAAAAAAACbE/d92xrvLwLpM/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCc-m7GEsws/Tc1y29uWwPI/AAAAAAAACbE/d92xrvLwLpM/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Bake according to package, allow to cool and then flip them over so the flat side is up. While they cooled, I made <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Sugar-Cookie-Icing/Detail.aspx">Sugar Cookie Icing</a>. I colored it red with gel coloring. I used a ziploc to pipe a border of red around the cookies, allowed that to set and then filled in the centers. This icing is shiny and dry in about 2 hours.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rl94qvinaFU/Tc1y7YUyEXI/AAAAAAAACbI/y5EbsFXxbWA/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rl94qvinaFU/Tc1y7YUyEXI/AAAAAAAACbI/y5EbsFXxbWA/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+051.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">To make the top of the hat, cup the tops off GIANT gumdrops. I found mine at Hy-Vee...they are fruity, not spice drops.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rf6hScQDjQ4/Tc1zBEA65MI/AAAAAAAACbM/Dw3-qLJ9KiY/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rf6hScQDjQ4/Tc1zBEA65MI/AAAAAAAACbM/Dw3-qLJ9KiY/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Using more Sugar Cookie icing in White (or leftover butter cream from the cake)...pipe a large dollop in the center of each cookie and press a gum drop into it. Then pipe a line around the outside and little lines through it to make the lacing on the hat.</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4V4y6QJTSo/Tc1zGi2STVI/AAAAAAAACbQ/85f_JRyYQE4/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4V4y6QJTSo/Tc1zGi2STVI/AAAAAAAACbQ/85f_JRyYQE4/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+053.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;">Allow to dry completely before serving. Mine were a little sloppy, but I think they still turned out pretty cute!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-85496381002042775832011-05-11T19:40:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:22:20.370-07:00A special cake- for the Cowgirl I love the most!<div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Our daughter is obsessed with all the Toy Story movies! She sleeps with Woody and Jessie every night. With her 3rd birthday approaching, I started looking for a great cake idea for her Toy Story party. I looked though several blogs and found my inspiration<a href="http://party.tipjunkie.com/toy-story-cowgirl-birthday-party/"> here</a>...</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tUySCl0GEEk/TctJ-plitLI/AAAAAAAACag/WXEsIrsx4ic/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tUySCl0GEEk/TctJ-plitLI/AAAAAAAACag/WXEsIrsx4ic/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I started by making two 9 inch white cakes and two 6 inch chocolate cakes. I chilled them overnight so they would stay moist and be easier to frost.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8pbW7RE8I0/TctKCxYWrTI/AAAAAAAACak/_hxJ5nfCvUg/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8pbW7RE8I0/TctKCxYWrTI/AAAAAAAACak/_hxJ5nfCvUg/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I have had enough trouble with cake sticking to the pan, so I am all about parchment! I also put small squares of parchment under the edge of the cake to keep my platter clean while decorating.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o2K5XdfI6MA/TctKG_Oqg5I/AAAAAAAACao/0ezS05sTnuo/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o2K5XdfI6MA/TctKG_Oqg5I/AAAAAAAACao/0ezS05sTnuo/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I could totally eat it just like this- a butter cream sandwich!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TkHrE4o7PlQ/TctKKc1VVrI/AAAAAAAACas/lhjnIzTG5Jw/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TkHrE4o7PlQ/TctKKc1VVrI/AAAAAAAACas/lhjnIzTG5Jw/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+046.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Frost the bottom layer then add the top layer and cover with another layer of frosting.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2MyOyVYz-24/TctKOo-grzI/AAAAAAAACaw/so-0N5SJg70/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2MyOyVYz-24/TctKOo-grzI/AAAAAAAACaw/so-0N5SJg70/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I then chilled the cake after putting on a crumb coat and applied a second coat of frosting about 1 hour later.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5gywt7vh5A/TctKVUTTNZI/AAAAAAAACa0/uKzgPzp_w0I/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5gywt7vh5A/TctKVUTTNZI/AAAAAAAACa0/uKzgPzp_w0I/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">The day before, I whipped up a batch of <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Marshmallow-Fondant/Detail.aspx">Marshamallow Fondant</a> and colored half brown and half black. I made long snakes of brown fondant and twisted them into ropes. Then I made bunch of cow spots and applied all over the cake.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OV7mcS48pro/TctKaTLp5BI/AAAAAAAACa4/qOpDYByPFVE/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OV7mcS48pro/TctKaTLp5BI/AAAAAAAACa4/qOpDYByPFVE/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+056.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I chilled the cake overnight and then pulled it out of the fridge a couple hours before the party and added a few toys to the top to make it official! Pretty easy- and I was very happy with how it turned out! </div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L4NnVt5jiWk/TctMYzhHtXI/AAAAAAAACa8/l6FfvxNFIWA/s1600/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L4NnVt5jiWk/TctMYzhHtXI/AAAAAAAACa8/l6FfvxNFIWA/s320/Robyn%2527s+3rd+birthday+071.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Happy 3rd Birthday to my favorite Cowgirl!!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-7751968479205483562011-05-02T10:49:00.000-07:002011-05-02T10:49:29.893-07:00If you love Orange Julius...<div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>Simple and so sweet! I have a large amount of orange juice concentrate in the freezer, so I decided to make my daughter a very special treat!! This is a knock off Orange Julius, easy to make at home and just as sweet! I'm going to miss these :(</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: orange; text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2c0SDyoudA/Tb7tLbn1JUI/AAAAAAAACaY/9Rf2fjjgzLg/s1600/may+1+2011+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2c0SDyoudA/Tb7tLbn1JUI/AAAAAAAACaY/9Rf2fjjgzLg/s320/may+1+2011+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>This recipe makes 4 Orange Julius drinks... I modified it slightly from all the recipes I saw on-line. I just couldn't make myself use all the sugar they called for!</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>6 oz Orange Juice Concentrate (I used Minute Maid Calcium Enriched)</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>1 Cup of Skim Milk</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>1 tsp Vanilla</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>About 10 ice cubes...add to desired consistency</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>1 Cup of Water</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>1/4 Cup Sugar...I used half white sugar and half powdered</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: orange; text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86zn7IjPWyw/Tb7tQvsxvrI/AAAAAAAACac/o-E9vuTqn9M/s1600/may+1+2011+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86zn7IjPWyw/Tb7tQvsxvrI/AAAAAAAACac/o-E9vuTqn9M/s320/may+1+2011+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><b>Throw everything into your blender but the ice and puree. Add ice cubes a few at a time until you reach the desired consistency. You can also refrigerate any leftovers and re-process with additional ice the next day. Frothy, light and sweet. An excellent summer treat! </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-73204155836465766762011-05-02T10:40:00.000-07:002011-05-02T10:40:07.347-07:00Anyway you cook them...I love Brats! (The sausage, not small children!)<div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Pregnancy has just killed my cooking lately! I've been in such a food rut...and it's about to get worse. I'm meeting with a nutritionist today to learn about my new diet for Gestational Diabetes. Sorry folks, my blogs about sweets and bread are going to disappear until this baby comes! They will be replaced by whatever new meals I involve in my diet...probably even healthier than what I've been making! Here's my dinner from last week...my last meal on white sub rolls!!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R9j8BHG6qaM/Tb7qqIK-pgI/AAAAAAAACZ4/9urBsrh8m3c/s1600/may+1+2011+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R9j8BHG6qaM/Tb7qqIK-pgI/AAAAAAAACZ4/9urBsrh8m3c/s320/may+1+2011+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Start by cooking your favorite brats in a large pan. I add the brats, plus about 1/2 TBS of olive oil and about 1 cup of water.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xWhWDk7TMTU/Tb7quSDAhnI/AAAAAAAACZ8/3PsH9HPOZVg/s1600/may+1+2011+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xWhWDk7TMTU/Tb7quSDAhnI/AAAAAAAACZ8/3PsH9HPOZVg/s320/may+1+2011+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">While the brats cook, chop two large green peppers and thinly slice one large onion.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vTud_pbY9U/Tb7q0WzQsRI/AAAAAAAACaA/zsj9SBXwLko/s1600/may+1+2011+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vTud_pbY9U/Tb7q0WzQsRI/AAAAAAAACaA/zsj9SBXwLko/s320/may+1+2011+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">As the brats cook- the water will evaporate and the casings will brown. Flip them at least once in the water and once in the dry pan.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SX_MkvTkrws/Tb7q4r75p7I/AAAAAAAACaE/-keyNLUGuFg/s1600/may+1+2011+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SX_MkvTkrws/Tb7q4r75p7I/AAAAAAAACaE/-keyNLUGuFg/s320/may+1+2011+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">When cooked through- remove from the skillet and allow to rest.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9BnRMvE57s/Tb7q8x1kkII/AAAAAAAACaI/Lrd8nQEhBQQ/s1600/may+1+2011+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9BnRMvE57s/Tb7q8x1kkII/AAAAAAAACaI/Lrd8nQEhBQQ/s320/may+1+2011+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Add peppers and onions to the same pan with about 2 tsp of olive oil. Cook over Medium heat until soft.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_9fTpNc37JA/Tb7rAs3NUYI/AAAAAAAACaM/7TW0p59Moqg/s1600/may+1+2011+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_9fTpNc37JA/Tb7rAs3NUYI/AAAAAAAACaM/7TW0p59Moqg/s320/may+1+2011+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">After the brats have been sitting for about 10 min- slice into chunks.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JgQZWbyDAE4/Tb7rER1IwGI/AAAAAAAACaQ/NDl-TkDdVuQ/s1600/may+1+2011+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JgQZWbyDAE4/Tb7rER1IwGI/AAAAAAAACaQ/NDl-TkDdVuQ/s320/may+1+2011+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Throw them back into the cooked peppers and onions to re-heat.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7SuTP80JsqU/Tb7rINwXEII/AAAAAAAACaU/4CWqPCapMuU/s1600/may+1+2011+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7SuTP80JsqU/Tb7rINwXEII/AAAAAAAACaU/4CWqPCapMuU/s320/may+1+2011+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Load onto a sub roll and top with spicy yellow mustard! A delicious way to enjoy brats when the weather doesn't cooperate for grilling!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-11450760943278901862011-04-17T11:28:00.000-07:002011-04-17T11:28:34.350-07:00A fun way to give Spinach a little love!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpDWVOiCl9s/TasvNprYE5I/AAAAAAAACZs/_iyD6Y2OBS0/s1600/Kabobs+018.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I'm on a spinach kick lately...maybe it's being pregnant? Either way, my body is loving all the extra Iron I've been including in my diet. One of my favorite new ways to eat Spinach is on Pizza!!!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a1pw2ADzc9U/TasvDDyr1sI/AAAAAAAACZk/JW-mMo_ijAY/s1600/Kabobs+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a1pw2ADzc9U/TasvDDyr1sI/AAAAAAAACZk/JW-mMo_ijAY/s320/Kabobs+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I do like to make my own crust...but these are my favorite brand when I need a quick option!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X9yPO1_c1LM/TasvHnyNm9I/AAAAAAAACZo/dN-dWq8OpvM/s1600/Kabobs+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X9yPO1_c1LM/TasvHnyNm9I/AAAAAAAACZo/dN-dWq8OpvM/s320/Kabobs+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I cover the crust with olive oil, garlic salt and lots of fresh grated Parmesan Cheese.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpDWVOiCl9s/TasvNprYE5I/AAAAAAAACZs/_iyD6Y2OBS0/s1600/Kabobs+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9VihOPoIAkQ/TasuIVlSZaI/AAAAAAAACZY/hJuVP8FaTJY/s1600/Kabobs+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9VihOPoIAkQ/TasuIVlSZaI/AAAAAAAACZY/hJuVP8FaTJY/s320/Kabobs+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Chop 4-6 Green Onions (use whites and tops) and throw them in a large skillet.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZbvMCb066g/TasuOHIcUYI/AAAAAAAACZc/DkKmEzopqCY/s1600/Kabobs+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZbvMCb066g/TasuOHIcUYI/AAAAAAAACZc/DkKmEzopqCY/s320/Kabobs+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">To the onions, add 3 cups of chopped fresh spinach, a few cloves of grated garlic, a pinch of salt and about 1 TBS of olive oil. Cook until the spinach is all wilted.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HexJju8idus/TasuTSCXXKI/AAAAAAAACZg/CT3NG14Iq9M/s1600/Kabobs+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HexJju8idus/TasuTSCXXKI/AAAAAAAACZg/CT3NG14Iq9M/s320/Kabobs+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I also love tomatoes on my pizza, but sometimes they make it soggy...so I slice my tomatoes and dry them on paper towels for a while before layering onto my crust.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpDWVOiCl9s/TasvNprYE5I/AAAAAAAACZs/_iyD6Y2OBS0/s1600/Kabobs+018.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpDWVOiCl9s/TasvNprYE5I/AAAAAAAACZs/_iyD6Y2OBS0/s320/Kabobs+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">This particular pizza is half spinach/tomato and half tomato/basil. I also love making my spinach pizza with canned artichokes! Just rinse them well, chop and throw into the skillet with the rest of the spinach toppings.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vGMEtt8JAVs/TasvSKXPpdI/AAAAAAAACZw/DNOufxjtRhg/s1600/Kabobs+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vGMEtt8JAVs/TasvSKXPpdI/AAAAAAAACZw/DNOufxjtRhg/s320/Kabobs+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> Top the whole thing with shredded mozzarella cheese and put in a pre-heated oven (follow crust instructions).</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D19NSWZH7hs/TasvWNgwNlI/AAAAAAAACZ0/TADbr8EXhZU/s1600/Kabobs+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D19NSWZH7hs/TasvWNgwNlI/AAAAAAAACZ0/TADbr8EXhZU/s320/Kabobs+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">This is my spinach/tomato pizza...delicious!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-6664142189775441222011-04-09T10:08:00.000-07:002011-04-09T10:08:24.782-07:00We love any meal with Mexican flavors!<div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">This week, we had another meal inspired by a Managers Special at the store! Bottom Round roast was reduced for quick sale at Sam's Club (still had 5 days until it's "Use By" date). I got a $15 roast for $5! It was nice and lean too...so not much waste :) We weren't hungry for pot roast, so I decided to give it a little Mexican Flare!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hBbo_trGVEc/TaCQ9zC0nXI/AAAAAAAACZE/h_gxomwRm0w/s1600/April11+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hBbo_trGVEc/TaCQ9zC0nXI/AAAAAAAACZE/h_gxomwRm0w/s320/April11+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">This hunk of meat is going to find a home in the crock pot, but first...get a nice sear on all sides! I seasoned with just salt and pepper and seared with a little olive oil.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHpzQcSqA4Y/TaCRBAw8RoI/AAAAAAAACZI/MtbpMm9dGi4/s1600/April11+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHpzQcSqA4Y/TaCRBAw8RoI/AAAAAAAACZI/MtbpMm9dGi4/s320/April11+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">In the crock pot...I put 5 cloves of garlic, a small handful of dried red chilies, and 1 tsp of dried Mexican Oregano.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-phpEzNN_ILo/TaCRFTdd3PI/AAAAAAAACZM/IHDK192_eDg/s1600/April11+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-phpEzNN_ILo/TaCRFTdd3PI/AAAAAAAACZM/IHDK192_eDg/s320/April11+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">To this, I added the browned roast and 1 can of beef broth. I also added about half a can of water. </div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIJ28V62j_g/TaCRIzY0tiI/AAAAAAAACZQ/PbYUeIsJj8M/s1600/April11+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIJ28V62j_g/TaCRIzY0tiI/AAAAAAAACZQ/PbYUeIsJj8M/s320/April11+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">I cooked my roast on high for about 4 hours and then flipped and turned the crock pot to low for another 6 hours. The end result...very tender meat that was falling apart as I removed it!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a4kXE03Ap5w/TaCRMgAwlLI/AAAAAAAACZU/aTGFxDh7mlk/s1600/April11+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a4kXE03Ap5w/TaCRMgAwlLI/AAAAAAAACZU/aTGFxDh7mlk/s320/April11+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Shred meat and find lots of fun ways to use it! We had it in tacos the first night with fresh lime and homemade salsa. Also a great filling for burritos, enchiladas or quesadillas!! We got 4 meals out of our roast...pretty good deal :)</span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-73113914169645501522011-03-31T17:01:00.000-07:002011-03-31T17:02:51.265-07:00I love making cute food!<div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I've been craving chocolate cake like no other lately. I wasn't looking for anything fancy, just chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. I decided my best option, was to make cupcakes...good portion control! I also decided to give half of them away so I wouldn't eat them all!!!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgZucL74l_Y/TZUTDZjz-wI/AAAAAAAACYk/8tIqyvWGNwk/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgZucL74l_Y/TZUTDZjz-wI/AAAAAAAACYk/8tIqyvWGNwk/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">First off, I bought mini vanilla wafers and regular. The Wal-Mart brand "regular" size were smaller than the mini. I ended up using just one size after that! These supplies were used to make Monkey Cupcakes for my little Monkey :)</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tBbfoO_ciZQ/TZUTG0g6k0I/AAAAAAAACYo/sW8_gdz4_mw/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tBbfoO_ciZQ/TZUTG0g6k0I/AAAAAAAACYo/sW8_gdz4_mw/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">You need 2 vanilla wafers for each cupcake. I microwaved mine for about 30 sec so I could cut them without having them crumble. Cut 1 wafer in half to make 2 ears, and take just the very edge off one to make the monkey mouth.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-mkfzAxF3M/TZUTMU3Lz0I/AAAAAAAACYs/z4F3Pa8R1ws/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-mkfzAxF3M/TZUTMU3Lz0I/AAAAAAAACYs/z4F3Pa8R1ws/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I just used boxed cake mix and made 24 Devil's Food cupcakes. Let cool completely before frosting.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qH0GySUl24M/TZUTSa91S8I/AAAAAAAACYw/VsBCQ1j53cI/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qH0GySUl24M/TZUTSa91S8I/AAAAAAAACYw/VsBCQ1j53cI/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Frost cooled cupcakes with the chocolate frosting of your choice. I love the Whipped frostings!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YZfAE6IQY-k/TZUTVwo5kvI/AAAAAAAACY0/GYYx3YS1jDA/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YZfAE6IQY-k/TZUTVwo5kvI/AAAAAAAACY0/GYYx3YS1jDA/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Next, build your monkey. Place one vanilla wafer with the cut edge up. Place the halved wafers on either side to make the ears.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LpcE7K_tSKw/TZUTZSBYa3I/AAAAAAAACY4/sKUBuTjAJQc/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LpcE7K_tSKw/TZUTZSBYa3I/AAAAAAAACY4/sKUBuTjAJQc/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Using tubed frosting (I was too lazy to make homemade), draw 4 dots of blacks and a smile of red to form the face. Pretty simple!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7iBG_nr-_ec/TZUTdpgcVAI/AAAAAAAACY8/Yx70u5ZPSes/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7iBG_nr-_ec/TZUTdpgcVAI/AAAAAAAACY8/Yx70u5ZPSes/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">A festive platter on Monkey Cupcakes! They were super easy to make, totally adorable and cured me of my need for Chocolate Cake...at least for today :)</span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-15557246579782608112011-03-30T19:48:00.000-07:002011-03-30T19:48:53.978-07:00Back from a break with more food to love!<div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Sorry gang- I got in a cooking slump, life got busy and I went on vacation. As a result, it's been WAY too long since I blogged last :) Have no fear, I'm back...and ready for Spring to inspire some new recipes!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">On my last trip to the grocery store, I found some Sirloin Steaks that were priced "Managers Special". I bought them along with some veggies to make a stir fry. Hubby said stir fry did not sound appealing, so I tried another take on the Philly Cheese Steak.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7pM8NJ5UOvs/TZPpMB9d5LI/AAAAAAAACYQ/sxiAhXNxSF4/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7pM8NJ5UOvs/TZPpMB9d5LI/AAAAAAAACYQ/sxiAhXNxSF4/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">For this recipe, I used about 1 lb of Sirloin Steak, 1 Green Bell Pepper, 1 Pkg of White Mushrooms (8 oz), French Bread, Cheez Whiz and various seasoning.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZjdh_ylmfc/TZPpP5yVdYI/AAAAAAAACYU/HBknwI0S9qU/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZjdh_ylmfc/TZPpP5yVdYI/AAAAAAAACYU/HBknwI0S9qU/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">To get extra tender meat, cut into paper thin slices and just sear in your skillet. My steak turned out so great this time!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtfHdkEmk08/TZPpU_cj27I/AAAAAAAACYY/Ub3sGEnbLMk/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtfHdkEmk08/TZPpU_cj27I/AAAAAAAACYY/Ub3sGEnbLMk/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">In a large skillet, heat the oil of your choice over Medium High heat. Add veggies and cook until they start to become tender. Then add your meat.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6u8F_s8LMnE/TZPpaqpPyyI/AAAAAAAACYc/xeQX_qEyKh4/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6u8F_s8LMnE/TZPpaqpPyyI/AAAAAAAACYc/xeQX_qEyKh4/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Cook meat until it just turns brown. Don't over cook it or it will become tough. Season with salt, pepper and a little Worcestershire Sauce. I put my bread in the oven for a few minutes to heat while I cooked the meat and veggies.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sslit4ADnx0/TZPpdzzA0WI/AAAAAAAACYg/HI7nYh2nBJw/s1600/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sslit4ADnx0/TZPpdzzA0WI/AAAAAAAACYg/HI7nYh2nBJw/s320/Cupcakes+and+Cheesesteaks+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">I'm not one for processed foods, but I did go traditional this time and top mine with Cheez Whiz. I must admit, it was super tasty :)</span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-60785147262581411372011-03-08T13:20:00.000-08:002011-03-08T13:20:41.489-08:00I love homemade pasta!<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">I've been wanting to try my hand at homemade pasta for a long time! After watching an episode of Ciao Italiana on PBS, I decided I was going to start with gnocchi. Gnocchi is a pasta made from potatoes and they are like little pillows of deliciousness!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-3T6glqo0Bpo/TXabFNcl__I/AAAAAAAACXk/vKEP07eGzBg/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-3T6glqo0Bpo/TXabFNcl__I/AAAAAAAACXk/vKEP07eGzBg/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+728.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="color: #0b5394;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Start with plain old Idaho Potatoes....I used 6 small potatoes to make 3 servings.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sb1R42c7Fu4/TXabH_t03VI/AAAAAAAACXo/zUvgNIxwQ2E/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sb1R42c7Fu4/TXabH_t03VI/AAAAAAAACXo/zUvgNIxwQ2E/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+729.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Bake the potatoes in a 400 degree oven for about 1 hour- until soft. Remove the skins and let the potatoes cool. Use a fork or a ricer to finely mash the potatoes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SJGI8b7OaVo/TXabK48ugQI/AAAAAAAACXs/EkR47XlrIng/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SJGI8b7OaVo/TXabK48ugQI/AAAAAAAACXs/EkR47XlrIng/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+730.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Stir in 1 egg (beaten), a good pinch of salt, and flour a little at a time until the dough forms a ball.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-XbwwmOO0yDg/TXabN2YC0EI/AAAAAAAACXw/j6uS8RAVX8Q/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-XbwwmOO0yDg/TXabN2YC0EI/AAAAAAAACXw/j6uS8RAVX8Q/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+731.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">I used about 1 cup of flour...and probably should have used a little more. Don't over knead the dough- just work it together until it's no longer sticky.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-knoR3bJVFsg/TXabRKyYoOI/AAAAAAAACX0/jX2XIB3nguU/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-knoR3bJVFsg/TXabRKyYoOI/AAAAAAAACX0/jX2XIB3nguU/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+732.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Cut the dough into quarters and roll each section into a rope. Using a sharp knife, cut about 1/2 inch pieces.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FkRTMaQyMzw/TXabTh-TNrI/AAAAAAAACX4/pfZS4JUURJI/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FkRTMaQyMzw/TXabTh-TNrI/AAAAAAAACX4/pfZS4JUURJI/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+733.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">At this point, I put on a big pot of boiling water and started my Alfredo Sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter with half a cup of cream. I also added 3 cloves of finely minced garlic and LOTS of black pepper.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7vhNh-2G6TY/TXabWIXWqbI/AAAAAAAACX8/YJZbmUmliow/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7vhNh-2G6TY/TXabWIXWqbI/AAAAAAAACX8/YJZbmUmliow/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+734.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Heat the cream and butter over Medium heat until it starts to thicken, then stir in 1 cup of fresh grated Parmesan Cheese and another 1/2 cup of cream. VERY LOW FAT :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JUY6AZ_b_aA/TXabY7ty2DI/AAAAAAAACYA/D8hUuveKiy4/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JUY6AZ_b_aA/TXabY7ty2DI/AAAAAAAACYA/D8hUuveKiy4/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+735.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">After cutting the gnocchi, flour a fork and roll each piece down the back of the prongs. This gives the gnocchi little grooves to hold the sauce. Drop into boiling water and cook about 3 minutes...remove as soon as they start to float!!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YLwxHBXwWY8/TXabbOvL8rI/AAAAAAAACYE/y_c3e5mtkxs/s1600/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YLwxHBXwWY8/TXabbOvL8rI/AAAAAAAACYE/y_c3e5mtkxs/s320/Kathleen%2527s+Camera+Mar+2011+736.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Add to the thick and creamy Alfredo sauce. Wouldn't you love to see the finished product??? I know, but I forgot to take a picture :) I was too anixious to eat it!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Overall a great 1st experience with homemade pasta- one I will be making again very soon!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-18606049385338256652011-02-21T05:31:00.000-08:002011-02-21T05:31:59.062-08:00I love the end of Winter as much as the beginning!<div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">As excited as I get for the first snowfall, I'm equally excited about the "Spring" thaw. The days get warmer, the nights are still chilly and I can see the beginning of my daffodils pushing through! I also take this time as my last chance to cram in some good winter comfort food. I don't have a strong desire for creamy soups, chili or hearty casseroles in the heat of the summer. I decided to make my own version of a classic comfort item....Chicken Pot Pie, in soup form!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OHlwk5iztVw/TWJmdCjHmhI/AAAAAAAACXE/S3YAi1esApE/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OHlwk5iztVw/TWJmdCjHmhI/AAAAAAAACXE/S3YAi1esApE/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Start with the basics: a few carrots, a few stalks of celery (plus the leafy tops) and 1 small onion. Chop everything about the same size.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sdN-7g-icIw/TWJmhT46iuI/AAAAAAAACXI/pGTXKao1n5Q/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sdN-7g-icIw/TWJmhT46iuI/AAAAAAAACXI/pGTXKao1n5Q/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Throw into a large pot with a couple cloves of minced garlic and a few TBS of butter. I didn't really measure, just eyeball it :)</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8xvv9uctbBU/TWJmkUXzMCI/AAAAAAAACXM/H6YMbM0I7Zg/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8xvv9uctbBU/TWJmkUXzMCI/AAAAAAAACXM/H6YMbM0I7Zg/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">After the veggies had cooked for a few minutes, I added two large potatoes (peeled and cubed).</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPqxuCPxrjA/TWJmorW-X5I/AAAAAAAACXQ/wcmL2UpPmtI/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPqxuCPxrjA/TWJmorW-X5I/AAAAAAAACXQ/wcmL2UpPmtI/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">To the pot of veggies and potatoes, add about 6 cups of chicken stock or broth and bring to a simmer for about 25 minutes, or until veggies and potatoes are all fork tender.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12sSd1B71Sc/TWJmrvHr9SI/AAAAAAAACXU/WM0KpU1NaDI/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12sSd1B71Sc/TWJmrvHr9SI/AAAAAAAACXU/WM0KpU1NaDI/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">I usually make my own stock by boiling a whole chicken. I found chickens a few weeks ago for $.39 a lb! I used just the white meat for this.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xalifFQuDtU/TWJmu0JhCFI/AAAAAAAACXY/-zuEO21eCFE/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xalifFQuDtU/TWJmu0JhCFI/AAAAAAAACXY/-zuEO21eCFE/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Add in the meat and then turn heat to Medium-High and stir in about 1 1/2 cups of Half and Half.</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTXCUZ9xe_Y/TWJmyTpS2MI/AAAAAAAACXc/_DRYd42N5hs/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTXCUZ9xe_Y/TWJmyTpS2MI/AAAAAAAACXc/_DRYd42N5hs/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Let the soup thicken a bit and adjust with a cornstarch slurry. Mix a couple TBS of cornstarch with COLD water until smooth and gradually add until soup is thick enough. In the last few minutes of cooking, add a few handfuls of frozen peas and season well with Salt and Pepper. (I use LOTS of fresh cracked pepper!!!)</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OPkSqvm0VdQ/TWJm18K8LWI/AAAAAAAACXg/oXvfT_68LRk/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OPkSqvm0VdQ/TWJm18K8LWI/AAAAAAAACXg/oXvfT_68LRk/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Serve with your favorite bread or biscuit. A hearty bowl of comfort to celebrate the end of Winter!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">***If the soup isn't rich enough for your taste, you could also add a little Chicken Bouillon and use Heavy Cream in place of the Half and Half. ***</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-3068862599425645402011-02-20T14:46:00.000-08:002011-02-21T05:31:43.343-08:00How can you NOT love cookie dough?!!<div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">I will admit it, I have a weakness for cookie dough. However, I think my husband actually prefers cookie dough to baked cookies!! When I saw this recipe, I knew it was perfect. I decided to make <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Frozen-Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Dough-Balls/Detail.aspx">Frozen Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls</a> for Valentine's Day...and I dipped them in chocolate :)</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a364jhhnhCE/TWGYHUJAymI/AAAAAAAACWo/rG8ONCMFAnM/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a364jhhnhCE/TWGYHUJAymI/AAAAAAAACWo/rG8ONCMFAnM/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">For all you cookie dough lovers out there...these will indulge your need for dough safely. No eggs!!</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pbk7_Gn3I4w/TWGYL09-QaI/AAAAAAAACWs/7hgx3xfLa9Q/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pbk7_Gn3I4w/TWGYL09-QaI/AAAAAAAACWs/7hgx3xfLa9Q/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">In a large bowl, cream softened butter with sugar. Stir in flour, vanilla, and water. I also added a 1/2 tsp of salt to the dough, because I love a little salt with chocolate. Mix in semi-sweet mini chips.</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vI6aEyzYK_k/TWGYPhGyuGI/AAAAAAAACWw/AlRlRbOk4tQ/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vI6aEyzYK_k/TWGYPhGyuGI/AAAAAAAACWw/AlRlRbOk4tQ/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">I used a scoop to get all the dough balls the same size and then rolled to give them a nice shape. I froze for about 1 hour at this point.</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CwOsz6caNkI/TWGYSH_nVNI/AAAAAAAACW0/ds8Rc_dfTEY/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CwOsz6caNkI/TWGYSH_nVNI/AAAAAAAACW0/ds8Rc_dfTEY/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">In a narrow, but deep bowl...melt your chocolate coating. I use chocolate Almond Bark.</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7u8t-64h53Y/TWGYVtqkp6I/AAAAAAAACW4/1Fy8ljhE2mk/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7u8t-64h53Y/TWGYVtqkp6I/AAAAAAAACW4/1Fy8ljhE2mk/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">I like to use a two fork method to remove the chocolate dipped dough balls.</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CSRbt3fRDcc/TWGYY-Mnn8I/AAAAAAAACW8/sumNGrezAZ0/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CSRbt3fRDcc/TWGYY-Mnn8I/AAAAAAAACW8/sumNGrezAZ0/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">About every five balls, I stopped to top them with sprinkles. Act quickly, before the chocolate dries.</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lx1GSzuOgao/TWGYcHqUqLI/AAAAAAAACXA/v1AbHFJYGOw/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lx1GSzuOgao/TWGYcHqUqLI/AAAAAAAACXA/v1AbHFJYGOw/s320/Valentine%2527s+Day+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">A total of 50 delicious cookie dough balls. They are a little difficult to eat right out of the freezer. I actually like them better after they come to room temp. Store in the freezer and if you are really a dough fan, make some mini dough balls to add to ice cream!!</span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-5031257230870483772011-02-04T06:11:00.000-08:002011-02-04T06:11:36.135-08:00I love that Snow Days seem to be made for baking!<div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">The Midwest got nailed with a pretty crazy snow storm this week. The forecast for my area kept changing from high amounts (18 inches) to low amounts (4 inches). I didn't necessarily want the snow itself, but I wanted enough to give us a snow day! Well, I got what I wished for...13 inches! Hubby got to leave work early Tuesday and had Wednesday off as well. Seems to mean I was given a great excuse to keep our house warm- and bake!! I've had this recipe in my recipe book forever....I have no idea where I got it!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDZngs5lI/AAAAAAAACVo/txHu0Fdng5Y/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDZngs5lI/AAAAAAAACVo/txHu0Fdng5Y/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">My recipe calls for:</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 cup of White Sugar</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 cup of Brown Sugar</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 stick of butter- room temp</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">3 eggs- room temp</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 tsp of baking soda</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 tsp of vanilla</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 1/4 cups Peanut Butter</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">4 1/2 cups of Rolled Oats</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 Bag Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">1 Bag of M & M's</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDdLZKbiI/AAAAAAAACVs/G-IwG1JtitE/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDdLZKbiI/AAAAAAAACVs/G-IwG1JtitE/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+012.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Begin by creaming together the butter and both sugars. It will be crumbly well when combined. Add in the peanut butter, mix again and then add your eggs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDg9MjG6I/AAAAAAAACVw/yQD-GMXngqE/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDg9MjG6I/AAAAAAAACVw/yQD-GMXngqE/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Mix in the vanilla and baking soda with your hand mixer, then switch to a wooden spoon and mix in the oats.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDkd1JgfI/AAAAAAAACV0/7wrhS0ldHao/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDkd1JgfI/AAAAAAAACV0/7wrhS0ldHao/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Robyn loves to help- so even though I used the WHOLE bag of chocolate chips and M & M's, we measured them a cup at a time :) It's great for counting!</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDotwg_nI/AAAAAAAACV4/PU8wupSMXAo/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDotwg_nI/AAAAAAAACV4/PU8wupSMXAo/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Stir together the dough and scoop heaping spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDrWVmZZI/AAAAAAAACV8/sJ65Wsi8t8Y/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDrWVmZZI/AAAAAAAACV8/sJ65Wsi8t8Y/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes...until set but before they start to brown too much.</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDvTvC_UI/AAAAAAAACWA/W4AJTap7380/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUwDvTvC_UI/AAAAAAAACWA/W4AJTap7380/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">I made mine in two sizes...the MONSTER sized cookies are a little too big for Robyn :) These are very soft, not chewy or crispy. They stay soft for about a week, if they last that long!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-35298936197914734052011-02-01T15:50:00.000-08:002011-02-01T15:50:09.625-08:00A football food everyone loves!<div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;">I love Hot Wings and my husband loves Hot Wings. The beauty of this relationship is that I actually like the "wing" portion and he likes the little drummies. We happily split orders of wings in this way :) We've had great wings all over the place and they all seem to carry a general theme....they are fried. Frying is messy business at home. I don't want or need a deep fryer. Frying makes my kitchen stink and uses tons of oil- not to mention it isn't the healthiest way to cook (Not that there is such a thing as healthy Hot Wings!). I searched for a long time to find a wing recipe I was happy with at home. Not only did I find a good recipe, I found a GREAT recipe!!! Thank you Alton Brown- <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/good-eats/buffalo-wings-recipe/index.html">Buffalo Wings</a>!</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiZ6lEzw7I/AAAAAAAACVM/tM4z_IkD1Tc/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiZ6lEzw7I/AAAAAAAACVM/tM4z_IkD1Tc/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;">It all starts with a steamer basket. Place the basket in a large pot with about 1 inch of water. Bring water to a boil.</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiZ-GouNqI/AAAAAAAACVQ/n4tBVQPZkvk/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiZ-GouNqI/AAAAAAAACVQ/n4tBVQPZkvk/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;">Fill the pot with your wings and cover. Turn heat down to Medium. Cook thawed wings about 10 minutes and frozen wings about 15 minutes. Remove from the pot and place on a cookie sheet lined with paper towels. Refrigerate for 2 hours. I have cheated and done just 1 hour- they turned out fine :)</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaBd1uREI/AAAAAAAACVU/UIaeiqQKSnI/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaBd1uREI/AAAAAAAACVU/UIaeiqQKSnI/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;">Remove the wings from the fridge and place on a cookie sheet lined with foil. Bake at 425 degrees for 20 minutes. Flip and bake another 20 minutes.</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaFeD8JoI/AAAAAAAACVY/BAiHnBYsI38/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaFeD8JoI/AAAAAAAACVY/BAiHnBYsI38/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;">I use Frank's Red Hot Sauce...it is by far my favorite for wings and the brand used most in restaurants.</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaIsZOIdI/AAAAAAAACVc/xu25fR-kdNg/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaIsZOIdI/AAAAAAAACVc/xu25fR-kdNg/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;">Heat about 1/2 cup of sauce with 4 TBS of butter- this will cover 24-36 wings. You can grate fresh garlic into this mixture as well, but I just throw in a few cloves of smashed garlic while it heats.</div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaMEhQ9GI/AAAAAAAACVg/NW5E96UX5B4/s1600/wings+and+monster+cookies+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUiaMEhQ9GI/AAAAAAAACVg/NW5E96UX5B4/s320/wings+and+monster+cookies+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #0b5394; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Toss wings in the sauce and serve with celery and Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing. Do yourself a favor...if you are going to the trouble of making wings at home, make your own Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing as well. It is so much better!!! I assure you, these are well worth the work and I will never prepare wings any other way. They get crispy just like Fried Wings, and they taste unbelievable!!</span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-18624312098448099082011-02-01T09:00:00.000-08:002011-02-01T15:51:08.356-08:00A use for leftovers that I love!<div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;">I always try to make extra meat when I cook Tacos for dinner. It can be re-purposed so many ways!! I often use it to make a Taco Salad or as a topping for Pizza. If I don't use it the next day, I throw it in the freezer for quick meal inspiration another time. This time, I used it to make Mexican Pizzas.</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6gT8j2lI/AAAAAAAACU4/Kqw3s6flzg8/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6gT8j2lI/AAAAAAAACU4/Kqw3s6flzg8/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;">Robyn loves eating these too, but the round tortillas are a little difficult for her to handle, so I made her heart shaped pizzas using a cookie cutter.</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6kffk2eI/AAAAAAAACU8/OtJYxUjUuG0/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6kffk2eI/AAAAAAAACU8/OtJYxUjUuG0/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;">Bake tortillas at 400 degrees for about 4 minutes to lightly toast them. Spread on a thin layer of re-fried beans. I usually have these leftover after Taco night too.</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6oBElCpI/AAAAAAAACVA/TZmHRnaF2TI/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6oBElCpI/AAAAAAAACVA/TZmHRnaF2TI/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;">Top with Taco meat and cheese. I used a blend of Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese. I made Robyn's into sandwiches. Put back in the 400 degree oven for about 8 minutes until cheese is melted.</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6qiyZ1YI/AAAAAAAACVE/inUy-UAERUA/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6qiyZ1YI/AAAAAAAACVE/inUy-UAERUA/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;">Robyn's finished heart-shaped pizza sandwiches!!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6sib_dtI/AAAAAAAACVI/2n4AT7UJqS0/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUg6sib_dtI/AAAAAAAACVI/2n4AT7UJqS0/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
And my Mexican Pizza...I like to top mine with fresh Tomatoes and some pickled Jalapenos. A fun and simple way to make a new meal out of leftovers.</div><div style="color: #274e13; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-72286608856961836422011-01-29T14:20:00.000-08:002011-02-01T15:50:46.252-08:00I love these so much, I wish I hadn't made them!!!<div style="color: red; text-align: center;">I saw this recipe the other day when I was browsing the Kraft Foods website. I've been hooked on Yoplait Light- Boston Cream Pie Yogurt the last couple of weeks, so when I saw an easy recipe for <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Boston-Cream-Pie-Minis/Detail.aspx">Boston Cream Pie Minis</a>...I had to make them!!!!</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQfx2wQJI/AAAAAAAACUY/3oBeol0rOU4/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQfx2wQJI/AAAAAAAACUY/3oBeol0rOU4/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">You need a standard yellow cake mix (prepare as directed on box), a box of vanilla pudding (I used Sugar Free), a container of Cool Whip (I used Fat Free) and 4 oz of Semi-Sweet Chocolate.</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQigogpDI/AAAAAAAACUc/uzVj0Ll8E6A/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQigogpDI/AAAAAAAACUc/uzVj0Ll8E6A/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">The mini in the recipe refers to using a standard muffin pan, but I went even more mini by using my mini muffin pan :)</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQlFJDKqI/AAAAAAAACUg/gvDkRXqXkMo/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQlFJDKqI/AAAAAAAACUg/gvDkRXqXkMo/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">I also got these adorable aluminum hearts (Reynolds) and decided to try a couple heart shaped pies. The mini muffins took about 14 minutes at 350- the hearts took closer to 20 minutes.</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQoOeiT1I/AAAAAAAACUk/5GgVbb23tB4/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQoOeiT1I/AAAAAAAACUk/5GgVbb23tB4/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">Robyn mixed together the pudding mix with one cup of skim milk. Then I let her fold in the Cool Whip :)</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQrszVizI/AAAAAAAACUo/qk08EbFKLC8/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQrszVizI/AAAAAAAACUo/qk08EbFKLC8/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">I put the pudding mixture into a piping bag to make filling the pies a little less messy.</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQumoALmI/AAAAAAAACUs/UCpT0DnOJWs/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQumoALmI/AAAAAAAACUs/UCpT0DnOJWs/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">Use a serrated knife and cut all the cupcakes in half. Fill with the pudding mixture and replace the tops.</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQyX1r0uI/AAAAAAAACUw/mZ4Ar7iaEx0/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQyX1r0uI/AAAAAAAACUw/mZ4Ar7iaEx0/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">Top with a mixture of melted Cool Whip and semi-sweet baking chocolate (about 1 minute in the microwave and cooled for 15 minutes before frosting). I had no idea what the texture would be like and I was so excited when I tasted them! The frosting gets thick and fudge-like...so good!</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQ1Tje5YI/AAAAAAAACU0/advmLRKq4X4/s1600/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUSQ1Tje5YI/AAAAAAAACU0/advmLRKq4X4/s320/Cupcakes%252C+mexi+pizza+026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;">And just for fun, we topped them with some adorable Valentine Sprinkles. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy cold :) I'm glad I froze half of my cupcakes before making these...I can't stop eating them!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-59204563342182976772011-01-27T06:26:00.000-08:002012-10-15T13:01:06.023-07:00The search for a loveable Vegetable Beef Soup recipe!<div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">
I've made several Vegetable Beef Soups...sometimes using a recipe, sometimes just winging it as I go. I've done some with Barley, some with Tomatoes and some I was just plain disappointed in. Not any more!!! I found the most delicious <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Steak-Soup/Detail.aspx">Steak Soup</a> Recipe...the one I will use from now on. So perfect!</div>
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I used a lean bottom round roast for mine and cut into small cubes. I love that this uses celery leaves...such an under utilized flavor!! I love them :)</div>
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Begin by browning your meat and onions in a mixture of vegetable oil and butter. I only used 1 TBS of each instead of the 2 called for in the recipe. That was plenty for me!</div>
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I mixed together my flour, salt, pepper and paprika. Unfortunately, I only had 1 tsp of paprika left in my spice jar, so that is all that was added. It was perfect for my taste. Sprinkle the flour mixture over the browned meat and cook just a moment before adding your liquids. I did this all in the same soup pot instead of using two pots like the recipe suggests. Who needs extra dishes?! I added the water, beef broth, celery leaves and marjoram...brought to a boil then lowered the temp and simmered with the lid on for about 45 minutes.</div>
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I chopped up my carrots and celery while I waited for my liquids to boil.</div>
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When you are home alone with your two-year old and she sees you taking pictures, she wants to get in on the action :) She took this lovely photo of me cooking.</div>
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After your meat is tender, add in your carrots, celery and potatoes. I used two large russet potatoes that I peeled and cubed. Check your broth for seasoning at this point. I always need more pepper! This is also the point where you add your tomato paste. I only used half the can (3 oz) which was plenty for me. Cook another 20 minutes or so with the lid off over medium heat. Stir frequently so nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.</div>
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I also hate the idea of corn in any type of soup, and this needed some color, so I used frozen peas instead. Add in the last 5-10 minutes of cook time.</div>
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<span style="color: #990000;">Isn't that a pretty bowl of soup?!! The flavor was wonderful, even better the second day. Hearty and packed with veggies. Perfectly yum- the search is over~</span></div>
Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2547148777397612814.post-73695016613332774992011-01-26T14:34:00.000-08:002011-02-01T15:51:19.623-08:00I'm from Iowa, that means I have to love Pork!<div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">Many people grow up thinking Pork Chops are such a yummy treat, not me. I was never someone that got excited about Pork Chops, I still don't. However, I have been a pork addict when it comes in the form of shredded meat :) I'm truly hooked on the <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Simple-Carnitas/Detail.aspx">Simple Carnitas</a> recipe I have made so many times, and more recently, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Kalua-Pig-in-a-Slow-Cooker/Detail.aspx">Kalua Pig in a Slow Cooker</a> recipe from Allrecipes.com. I have always HATED anything made with liquid smoke, but I had access to some Red Hawaiian Sea Salt, so I decided to go for it!</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">The beauty of this recipe is the prep! Only 3 ingredients and no work :) The only catch, you MUST start it the day before you wish to eat it!</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCfnJ-r4hI/AAAAAAAACTo/4mn-h4zDWq8/s1600/Pizza%252C+Red+Lobster%252C+Lemon+Tart+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCfnJ-r4hI/AAAAAAAACTo/4mn-h4zDWq8/s320/Pizza%252C+Red+Lobster%252C+Lemon+Tart+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">Trim your Pork roast to remove some of the excess fat. Put your boneless or bone in Pork Shoulder (aka Pork Butt), in the crock pot. Using 1 1/2 TBS of the salt and 1 TBS of the liquid smoke, rub both sides of a 6 lb roast. That's it!! Turn it to low, cover and let sit for 16-20 hours. I assure you, you want to let it cook the whole time!!!!</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCfqU3jQnI/AAAAAAAACTs/5CjA_EVGYl0/s1600/Pizza%252C+Red+Lobster%252C+Lemon+Tart+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCfqU3jQnI/AAAAAAAACTs/5CjA_EVGYl0/s320/Pizza%252C+Red+Lobster%252C+Lemon+Tart+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">After 20 hours...this is my pork. It is literally falling apart and develops almost a bark on the exposed edges, just like it would if you smoked it. Shred the meat removing any fat.</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCftq3TmEI/AAAAAAAACTw/-s-ib6B_sSo/s1600/Pizza%252C+Red+Lobster%252C+Lemon+Tart+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCftq3TmEI/AAAAAAAACTw/-s-ib6B_sSo/s320/Pizza%252C+Red+Lobster%252C+Lemon+Tart+030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">This is the broth that I poured out of my crock pot...almost 3 cups! Remember, I didn't add any liquids other than the liquid smoke! This does make a nice sauce if you wish to serve your pork over rice. Just refrigerate to allow the fat to solidify so you can remove it, then reheat and serve. We love this over white rice.</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCfw-_kw4I/AAAAAAAACT0/UsJW-mcGiWg/s1600/Pork%252C+Lemon+Tart%252C+Veggie+Soup+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_V4zLw1J4m6U/TUCfw-_kw4I/AAAAAAAACT0/UsJW-mcGiWg/s320/Pork%252C+Lemon+Tart%252C+Veggie+Soup+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">It is also fantastic on a soft bun. Seriously, I have trouble stopping myself when I make this! If you're like me and think you don't like liquid smoke, this recipe could change your mind. AMAZING!!!</span></div>Kathleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09308386433586181839noreply@blogger.com3