It's finally Friday. Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Chicken à la King and Easy Turkey Meatloaf. Enjoy!
SAUTEED JAMAICAN CALLALOO
This yumminess is from Gabi Odebode on the Food Network.
This recipe starts off, "Callaloo is so popular in Jamaica that this leafy green is often referred to as Jamaican spinach. Although it looks something like spinach, it has a sturdier texture that’s akin to collard greens. Believed to have traveled to the Caribbean from West Africa, callaloo is cooked in many ways throughout the islands, including in ways similar to Southern braised collards. In Jamaica, it’s often sautéed, particularly with bell peppers and other vegetables for a bit of sweetness. Herbs and spice are added for robust flavor that’s bound to please even those who aren’t greens fans. Fresh callaloo can be difficult to find so we use frozen leaves in this recipe. Serve the dish with rice, plantains or boiled dumplings for a full Jamaican experience."
Active Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 4 Servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/sauteed-jamaican-callaloo-18572553.
Ingredients
5 ounces frozen callaloo
2 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
2 scallions, sliced
1 habanero pepper or scotch bonnet pepper, chopped, optional
2 teaspoons chicken or vegetable bouillon powder, optional
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Sea salt, to taste
Directions
Place the frozen callaloo in a medium bowl and allow it to thaw about 10 minutes. Remove and discard the thick stems from the callaloo but keep the thin stems attached to the leaves. Roughly chop the callaloo, place it in a strainer and rinse it thoroughly with room-temperature water to remove any dirt. Set aside in the strainer.
Fill a bowl large enough to comfortably hold the strainer with boiling water. Place the strainer with the callaloo into the water for about 3 minutes. Rinse the callaloo in cold water until cool, about 2 minutes. This step helps soften the callaloo and brighten its color. Press down on the callaloo in the strainer to remove excess water or wrap it in cheesecloth and wring out the water. Set aside.
Heat the oil in a medium skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring, until the onion is translucent, 2 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the red and yellow bell peppers and cook until slightly tender, about 2 minutes. Add the scallions and habanero pepper, if using, and cook for another minute. Add the callaloo and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium low. Stir in the bouillon powder, if using, and the thyme and cook for another 3 minutes. Add salt to taste and continue cooking until the callaloo is completely wilted and dark green, about 5 minutes. Taste again and add more salt if needed.
EASY CHICKEN POT PIE
This yumminess is from Sunny Anderson at the Food Network.
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 33 minutes; Total Time: 43 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds chicken tenders (about 10 tenders)
1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup frozen pearl onions
1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 store bought pie crust, unbaked and thawed if frozen
1 egg, lightly beaten
Special equipment: 10-inch cast-iron pan
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Sprinkle the chicken tenders with paprika, sage, oregano, salt and pepper. Heat a 10-inch cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil begins to swirl, add the seasoned chicken and saute until cooked through, about 4 minutes on the first side and 3 minutes on the second side. Remove the chicken to a plate with tongs, leaving the oil in the pan. Rest the chicken for a few minutes, and then chop into 1/2-inch cubes.
To the same pan, add the onions and peas and carrots and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir and cook until the onions become tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute longer. Sprinkle in the flour and stir until the flour dissolves into the vegetables and juices. Add the chicken stock and raise to a simmer, stirring until thickened. Once the liquid has thickened, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt, if needed.
Return the chicken to the pan. Unfold the pie crust and place over the top of the filling, tucking the excess edges inside the pan. Brush the crust evenly with the egg wash. Using a knife, gently cut 3 vents in the top of the crust. Place in the oven and bake until the crust is golden brown, about 20 minutes.
CHICKEN A LA KING
This yumminess is from Laura Manzano at Simply Recipes. For this recipe, Laura wrote, "...(E)ating chicken à la king is like wrapping yourself with a warm blanket. It’s a dish I now make regularly, especially on cold nights—it’s quick comfort food, done nearly as quickly as the pot of white rice I like to serve it with. It’s also wonderful with egg noodles or served alongside biscuits or warm toast."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, as well as reading everything that Laura wrote about this, go to https://www.simplyrecipes.com/chicken-a-la-king-recipe-8414596.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
1/2 stalk celery, diced (about 1/2 cup)
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste
8 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
1/4 cup sherry or dry white wine
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
1 (7-ounce) can pimentos, drained, patted dry, and diced (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup frozen peas
2 to 3 cups cooked white rice, for serving (optional)
Directions
In a medium to large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and celery, and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, 4 to 5 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir to coat them in butter, and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are softened (they won’t necessarily brown, and that’s fine) and cooked down to about half their volume, about 5 minutes.
Add the sherry or white wine and stir frequently until the liquid has nearly evaporated, about 2 minutes. (If omitting the alcohol, skip this step.)
Sprinkle the flour over the skillet and stir until no dry pockets remain and the raw flour has slightly cooked, about 1 minute. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream and stir well.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low and let thicken and reduce slightly, about 5 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken, diced pimentos, and frozen peas (no need to defrost). Stir well and cook until chicken is heated through and peas are hot, 2 to 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve with rice, if desired.
Chicken à la king can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, add to a pan on the stove with a splash of water and cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes.
COTTAGE PIE
This is from Dan Pelosi at The New York Times cooking newsletter. For this recipe, Dan wrote, "In this hearty and satisfying meal, ground beef is smothered in a delicious and thick gravy along with carrots, onions, celery and peas, then covered in creamy mashed potatoes and baked. Known for being freezer friendly, easy to make and economical, this recipe stretches its simple ingredients to feed many mouths. For variation, try using other vegetables in the base and swapping in sweet potatoes for the topping."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours; Yield: 6 to 8 servings
To view this online, go to v. While you're there, if you haven't already signed up for The New York Times cooking newsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Ingredients
For the Filling
2 pounds ground beef
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons salted butter
1 medium white or yellow onion, diced, about 1 cup
2 celery stalks, finely chopped, about 1/2 cup
1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped, about 1/2 cup
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup dry red wine (or water)
1/2 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
4 thyme sprigs
2 dried bay leaves
For the Topping
Salt
2-1/2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup whole milk
5 tablespoons salted butter, melted
3/4 cup grated Parmesan (about 1-1/2 ounces)
Preparation
Heat the oven to 350 degrees.
Prepare the filling: Heat an ovenproof 12-inch skillet over medium. Add ground beef and a large pinch of salt and cook, breaking up the meat as you go, until slightly pink and just cooked through, 5 to 7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the ground beef to a bowl and set aside. Leave about a teaspoon of fat in the pan and discard the rest.
To the same skillet, add butter, onion, celery and carrot and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the carrot is just tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato paste, stirring to coat, about 1 minute. Add flour and stir to incorporate.
Add broth, red wine, peas, Worcestershire sauce, thyme sprigs, bay leaves and 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the consistency of thick gravy, 7 to 10 minutes. Taste and add extra seasoning, if needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs and stir in the ground beef. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Make the topping: To a large saucepan, add 4 quarts of water and 2 tablespoons of salt and bring to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until knife-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and put back into the saucepan. Add the milk, 4 tablespoons butter and ½ cup grated Parmesan. Mash with a potato masher until just creamy, avoiding over-mashing. Taste and add salt if needed.
Dollop the mashed potatoes on top of the beef mixture in the skillet, carefully smoothing the mashed potatoes until it fully covers the beef mixture and reaches the edge of the pan. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over the top, sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and bake in the oven until golden and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tip
If you do not have an oven-proof skillet, you can transfer beef mixture to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish for assembly and baking.
STEAKHOUSE POTATOES ROMANOFF
This is from John Mitzewich (aka Chef John) at Allrecipes, and begins, "My potatoes Romanoff is an ideal dish for big holiday gatherings since you can make it the day before and bake it when needed. Featuring shredded baked russet potatoes and sweet shallots fluffed up with sour cream and lots of Cheddar cheese, this delicious potato casserole is the perfect side dish for any cut of steak. Chef John Schenk taught me how to make this special potato gratin ten years ago at his restaurant Strip House in Las Vegas."
Prep Time:20 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes; Addtional Time: 8 hours; Total Time: 10 hours 5 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/276526/steakhouse-potatoes-romanoff/.
Ingredients
Ingredients
1 teaspoon butter, or as needed
3 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
1/4 cup minced shallots
3 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
2-1/2 cups grated sharp white Cheddar cheese
1-3/4 cups sour cream
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Wrap each potato in aluminum foil and place on a baking sheet. Use a small knife to poke holes in the potatoes.
Bake in the preheated oven until potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a knife, about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Let potatoes cool to room temperature. Unwrap and place on a plate. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until completely chilled, 8 hours to overnight.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Butter a casserole dish.
Leave skin on potatoes. Use a cheese grater to shred potatoes into a large bowl. Add shallots to potatoes; season with salt, white pepper, and cayenne. Toss with two forks until well combined.
Add Cheddar cheese and mix well. Gently toss in sour cream until barely combined.
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish, piling it up high, then patting it down very lightly.
Bake in the preheated oven until piping hot and the top is browned, 30 to 35 minutes.
Chef's Notes
You can use 1-1/2 to 2 teaspoons of fine salt instead of kosher salt. Ground black pepper can be used instead of white.
If you do use shallots, note that a little will go a long way because they are raw. Feel free to sauté them in a little butter to take off the sharp, raw edge.
EASY TURKEY MEATLOAF
This is from Melissa Knific at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Melissa wrote, "There’s really no reason not to celebrate meatloaf — it’s simple, budget-friendly, cleanup is a breeze and there are almost always leftovers for next-day sandwiches. While beef is often the go-to choice for the meat, turkey is a flavorful alternative that can take on a slew of mix-ins. Here, seasoned bread crumbs, garlic powder and Worcestershire do the work, but a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a palmful of fresh, chopped thyme or sage can be added for an extra boost. Grated apple ensures the meatloaf isn’t dry; use any variety you have on hand. A sweet, slightly vinegary sauce is spooned over the meatloaf after it’s formed, caramelizing when baked (if you have a favorite bottled or from-scratch barbecue sauce feel free to use 2/3 cup of it instead). Serve this meatloaf with mashed potatoes and a green vegetable."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1025481-easy-turkey-meatloaf. While you're at it, if you haven't already signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
Nonstick cooking spray
1 large egg
1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (90 percent lean)
1 medium apple, cored and grated (6 ounces)
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (1 cup)
3/4 cup seasoned panko bread crumbs
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1-1/4 teaspoons kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
For the Sauce1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vinegar (cider, distilled, or white or red wine)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and coat with cooking spray.
Prepare the meatloaf: In a large bowl, beat the egg. Add ground turkey, apple, onion, panko, Worcestershire, garlic powder, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning, if using. Using hands, combine until everything is well mixed. Transfer to the prepared sheet pan and form into a football-shaped loaf, about 9-by-5 inches.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire and pepper until well combined. Pour evenly over the top of the meatloaf, allowing the sauce to drip down the sides.
Bake meatloaf until the temperature in the center registers 160 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, 45 to 55 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Friday, April 17, 2026
Thursday, April 16, 2026
Drinks
While most of us have the same things we like to drink, whether coffee, tea, soda, water, milk, whatever, there are other Drinks we can fix. To that end, here are six drink recipes to help you through the day, including Chai Latte, Homemade Ginger Tea, and an Orange Julius. Enjoy!
CAFE DE OLLA
The recipe for this yummy coffee is from the December 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 47. It starts off, “Literally 'coffee from the pot,' this recipe offers a simple way to make coffee for a crowd, with a spiced twist that no one can resist.” Serves 8 in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 cinnamon sticks
4 star anise
4 allspice berries
4 whole cloves
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar or 4 oz. piloncillo (Mexican raw sugar cones)
2 cups medium grind, dark roast coffee beans
2 cups low-fat milk
1 cup coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa, optional
Directions
Lightly crush cinnamon sticks, star anise, allspice, and cloves with mortar and pestle. Place in resealable plastic bag, and pound with rolling pin. Transfer to large saucepan, and add sugar and 8 cups water. Bring mixture to a boil, and simmer until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add coffee, and let steep 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, warm milk in small saucepan, and whisk until frothy.
Strain coffee through fine sieve or coffee filter into pitcher. Stir in coffee liqueur (if using). Serve with frothed milk.
nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 80; Protein: 2 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Cholesterol: 3 mg; Sodium: 35 mg; Fiber: 0 g; Sugar: 16 g; Gluten-Free
HOMEMADE GINGER TEA
This is from Jolinda Hackett on The Spruce Eats Jolinda wrote, “Wondering how to make a simple and easy homemade ginger tea? Why go out and buy stale old tea bags when you can easily make your own fresh and homemade ginger tea at home using fresh ginger? Treat yourself to a cup of piping hot ginger tea, a healthy drink that's great for digestion.
"Here's how to make the tastiest and most soothing and healing ginger tea you've ever had! There's really no comparison.
“This healing ginger tea recipe actually comes from the raw food and natural health retreat center I used to work at in Thailand, where we served it to our guests bright and early every single morning, seven days a week. The secret to the perfect healing ginger tea? Lots and lots of fresh ginger, simmered for a long time to bring out the flavor, and the lime, which compliments the ginger perfectly, and plenty of natural agave nectar or honey for a refined sugar-free sweetener (or you might prefer it unsweetened, depending on your health goals – It's still delicious, I promise!). Try this simple ginger tea for an immune system boost or for an invigorating way to start the morning.
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 15 minutes; Yield: 2 servings of ginger tea
To check this out online, click here.
Ingredients
About 2 inches of fresh raw ginger (use more or less, depending on how strong you want it!)
1-1/2 to 2 cups water
1 to 2 tablespoons honey (or agave nectar, to taste)
Optional: 1/2 lime (juiced, or to taste)
Directions
First, prepare the fresh ginger by peeling it and slicing it thinly to maximize the surface area. This will help you make a very flavorful ginger tea.
Boil the ginger in water for at least 10 minutes. For a stronger and tangier tea, allow to boil for 20 minutes or more, and use more slices of ginger. You really can't over do it, so feel free to add as much ginger and simmer it for as long as you want.
Remove from heat and add lime juice and honey (or agave nectar) to taste.
The secret to making a really flavorful ginger tea is to use plenty of ginger-more than you think you will need-and also to add a bit of lime juice and honey to your ginger tea. You will also probably want to add more honey than you think you will need as well.
Enjoy your hot ginger tea! A homemade ginger tea is excellent in soothing stomach aches and in aiding digestion.
ORANGE JULIUS
This comes from Kelli Foster on TheKitchn. (No, that's not a typo. If you've never checked out TheKitchn, or its sibling site, Apartment Therapy, I highly recommend checking out both. Seriously.)
Anyway, this makes 2 servings. To view the recipe online (along with a little bit about the Orange Julius), go to https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-an-orange-julius-125422.
Ingredients
1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 6-ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate
1/2 cup sugar (or sugar substitutes, check package for equivalence)
1-1/2 cups ice
Equipment
Blender
Glasses
Directions
Blend the milk and vanilla: Pour the milk and vanilla in a blender and pulse until combined.
Add the frozen concentrate: Add the frozen orange juice concentrate. Blend until fully combined with the milk.
Add the sugar and ice cubes: Blend until cubes are crushed and mixture has thickened. If things end up a little thick, just add a tablespoon of water and mix once again.
Pour and enjoy: Pour the drink into glasses. Serve with a straw and sip your way to blissful happiness.
Recipe Notes
I used 2% milk, though you can also use whole or skim milk with equally delicious results.
If you don't have orange juice concentrate (or aren't into buying it), I'd suggest freezing fresh orange juice into cubes (or in an 8x8-inch pan, then break it into chunks). Without that added iciness, the overall texture of the drink will change dramatically, and adding more ice in the end just doesn't work. (You end up with a more-soupy, less-flavored version of the original.)
SLOW-COOKER PEPPERMINT HOT CHOCOLATE
This comes from The Food Network, and starts off, “Made and served in the same pot, our slow-cooker cocoa is thickened and enriched with dark chocolate. Set up an add-ons bar beside the cooker (mini marshmallows, crushed candies and peppermint schnapps take cocoa to a whole new holiday level), then stick a ladle in the pot and let guests help themselves.” The recipe's last ingredient is peppermint schnapps, which is optional. I don't use it, and, if this is being served to children and/or people who normally don't drink – or if you're not sure – don't use it. I find that it really doesn't need it. Total Time: 2 hr 5 min; Prep: 5 min; Cook: 2 hr; Yield: 14 cups; Level: Easy
To read more, go to: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/slow-cooker-peppermint-hot-chocolate.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
3 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
12 cups whole milk
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon kosher salt
8 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
24 peppermint candies, crushed (about 1 cup), for serving
3 cups mini marshmallows, for serving
2 cups peppermint schnapps, optional, for serving
Directions
Whisk together the sugar and cocoa powder in a 6-quart slow cooker. Turn the cooker to high, and slowly whisk in the milk to prevent lumps from forming. Add the vanilla and salt, cover and cook for 1-1/2 hours. The sugar and cocoa powder should be completely dissolved.
Whisk in the chopped chocolate a little at a time until it is all incorporated. Replace the lid, and cook until thickened, 30 minutes more.
Turn the cooker to warm, and serve with small bowls of the peppermint candies and mini marshmallows and a small pitcher of schnapps, if using. For minty cocoa, let a few teaspoons of the peppermints melt in an 8-ounce cup or add 2 tablespoons of schnapps.
HIBISCUS PUNCH
This is from David Tanis in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this wonderful (and colorful) drink, David wrote, "This bright beverage, inspired by Caribbean sorrel drink and Mexican agua de Jamaica, is made by steeping hibiscus flowers to extract flavor — and color. It is then lightly sweetened and served chilled, like iced tea. Add cinnamon, ginger and allspice if you wish. It makes a great ruby-colored cocktail mixer as well."
Time: 40 minutes, plus chilling; Yield: 6 to 8 servings
This was featured in "Six Easy Recipes for the Ultimate Picnic Spread", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023213-hibiscus-punch.
Ingredients
2 cups dried hibiscus (see Tip)
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
1 (2-inch) chunk of ginger, peeled and chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon allspice berries (optional)
1/2 cup agave syrup or granulated sugar, or to taste
Ice
Lime wedges, for serving
Preparation
Bring 2 quarts water to a boil in a medium stainless-steel pot.
Add hibiscus flowers, and cinnamon, ginger and allspice berries, if using. Turn off heat and steep for at least 30 minutes.
Strain mixture into a pitcher or bowl and cool to room temperature. Sweeten to taste. Serve chilled over ice, with lime wedges.
Tip
You can use whole hibiscus flowers or pieces, but if using pieces, steep for less time, tasting as you go, until it is your desired strength. If you wish, you can also dilute the drink with water to taste.
CHAI LATTE
This is from Meghan Splawn in thekitchn. For this yumminess, Meghan wrote, "I fell in love with the idea of chai through the cartons of this drink mix from the grocery store. The milky sweetness partnered with the astringent black tea drew me in, but the warm spices that lingered between sips kept me drinking. It wasn’t long before the sweetness of those chai drink mixes became too much for me and I started experimenting with chai lattes at home.
"This chai latte gives you complete control over your chai latte experience, from the tea and the spices, to the sweetener and type of milk. All you need is to brew, steep, sweeten your tea, and then froth your milk. The result is a creamy cup of black tea subtly spiced and fragrant with cinnamon, black peppercorns, and ginger, and just the right amount of sweetness, so near perfect that you’ll skip the coffee shop chai (or the carton) and come home to make a pot of this at tea time."
Serves 4
To view this online, go to https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-a-chai-tea-latte-242520. There's also a lot of info for making the chai latte as good as it gets.
Ingredients
2 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
10 whole cloves
6 green cardamom pods, cracked
4 cups water
1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea, or 6 black tea bags
1/2 cup sweetener, such as brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup (optional)
3 cups cold whole milk, coconut milk, or other non-dairy milk
Equipment
Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
Pitcher or teapot
Instructions
Toast the spices. Place the cinnamon, peppercorns, cloves, and cardamom in a small saucepan over medium heat and toast, shaking the pan occasionally, until fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes.
Brew the tea. Add the water and ginger and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Steep the tea. Remove from the heat and add the loose-leaf tea or tea bags. Cover and steep for 10 minutes.
Sweeten the tea. While the tea is still warm, add the sweetener and stir until combined or dissolved.
Strain the tea. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher or teapot. Discard the spices and tea leaves. Store in the refrigerator for future use, or keep it warm while you froth the milk.
Froth the milk. For whole milk, froth the milk by shaking it in a jar or by whisking it vigorously over medium-high heat. For non-dairy milks, use an immersion blender to froth before heating.
Heat the milk. Heat the frothed milk in a small saucepan over low heat until warm.
Serve. Pour 3/4 cup of the warm tea base into each mug. Add 1/2 cup of warmed milk and stir to combine. Top with a heaping spoonful of milk froth.
Recipe Notes
Make ahead: The tea base can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before frothing the milk.
CAFE DE OLLA
The recipe for this yummy coffee is from the December 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 47. It starts off, “Literally 'coffee from the pot,' this recipe offers a simple way to make coffee for a crowd, with a spiced twist that no one can resist.” Serves 8 in 30 minutes or less.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 cinnamon sticks
4 star anise
4 allspice berries
4 whole cloves
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar or 4 oz. piloncillo (Mexican raw sugar cones)
2 cups medium grind, dark roast coffee beans
2 cups low-fat milk
1 cup coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa, optional
Directions
Lightly crush cinnamon sticks, star anise, allspice, and cloves with mortar and pestle. Place in resealable plastic bag, and pound with rolling pin. Transfer to large saucepan, and add sugar and 8 cups water. Bring mixture to a boil, and simmer until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add coffee, and let steep 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, warm milk in small saucepan, and whisk until frothy.
Strain coffee through fine sieve or coffee filter into pitcher. Stir in coffee liqueur (if using). Serve with frothed milk.
nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 80; Protein: 2 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Cholesterol: 3 mg; Sodium: 35 mg; Fiber: 0 g; Sugar: 16 g; Gluten-Free
HOMEMADE GINGER TEA
This is from Jolinda Hackett on The Spruce Eats Jolinda wrote, “Wondering how to make a simple and easy homemade ginger tea? Why go out and buy stale old tea bags when you can easily make your own fresh and homemade ginger tea at home using fresh ginger? Treat yourself to a cup of piping hot ginger tea, a healthy drink that's great for digestion.
"Here's how to make the tastiest and most soothing and healing ginger tea you've ever had! There's really no comparison.
“This healing ginger tea recipe actually comes from the raw food and natural health retreat center I used to work at in Thailand, where we served it to our guests bright and early every single morning, seven days a week. The secret to the perfect healing ginger tea? Lots and lots of fresh ginger, simmered for a long time to bring out the flavor, and the lime, which compliments the ginger perfectly, and plenty of natural agave nectar or honey for a refined sugar-free sweetener (or you might prefer it unsweetened, depending on your health goals – It's still delicious, I promise!). Try this simple ginger tea for an immune system boost or for an invigorating way to start the morning.
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 15 minutes; Yield: 2 servings of ginger tea
To check this out online, click here.
Ingredients
About 2 inches of fresh raw ginger (use more or less, depending on how strong you want it!)
1-1/2 to 2 cups water
1 to 2 tablespoons honey (or agave nectar, to taste)
Optional: 1/2 lime (juiced, or to taste)
Directions
First, prepare the fresh ginger by peeling it and slicing it thinly to maximize the surface area. This will help you make a very flavorful ginger tea.
Boil the ginger in water for at least 10 minutes. For a stronger and tangier tea, allow to boil for 20 minutes or more, and use more slices of ginger. You really can't over do it, so feel free to add as much ginger and simmer it for as long as you want.
Remove from heat and add lime juice and honey (or agave nectar) to taste.
The secret to making a really flavorful ginger tea is to use plenty of ginger-more than you think you will need-and also to add a bit of lime juice and honey to your ginger tea. You will also probably want to add more honey than you think you will need as well.
Enjoy your hot ginger tea! A homemade ginger tea is excellent in soothing stomach aches and in aiding digestion.
ORANGE JULIUS
This comes from Kelli Foster on TheKitchn. (No, that's not a typo. If you've never checked out TheKitchn, or its sibling site, Apartment Therapy, I highly recommend checking out both. Seriously.)
Anyway, this makes 2 servings. To view the recipe online (along with a little bit about the Orange Julius), go to https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-an-orange-julius-125422.
Ingredients
1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 6-ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate
1/2 cup sugar (or sugar substitutes, check package for equivalence)
1-1/2 cups ice
Equipment
Blender
Glasses
Directions
Blend the milk and vanilla: Pour the milk and vanilla in a blender and pulse until combined.
Add the frozen concentrate: Add the frozen orange juice concentrate. Blend until fully combined with the milk.
Add the sugar and ice cubes: Blend until cubes are crushed and mixture has thickened. If things end up a little thick, just add a tablespoon of water and mix once again.
Pour and enjoy: Pour the drink into glasses. Serve with a straw and sip your way to blissful happiness.
Recipe Notes
I used 2% milk, though you can also use whole or skim milk with equally delicious results.
If you don't have orange juice concentrate (or aren't into buying it), I'd suggest freezing fresh orange juice into cubes (or in an 8x8-inch pan, then break it into chunks). Without that added iciness, the overall texture of the drink will change dramatically, and adding more ice in the end just doesn't work. (You end up with a more-soupy, less-flavored version of the original.)
SLOW-COOKER PEPPERMINT HOT CHOCOLATE
This comes from The Food Network, and starts off, “Made and served in the same pot, our slow-cooker cocoa is thickened and enriched with dark chocolate. Set up an add-ons bar beside the cooker (mini marshmallows, crushed candies and peppermint schnapps take cocoa to a whole new holiday level), then stick a ladle in the pot and let guests help themselves.” The recipe's last ingredient is peppermint schnapps, which is optional. I don't use it, and, if this is being served to children and/or people who normally don't drink – or if you're not sure – don't use it. I find that it really doesn't need it. Total Time: 2 hr 5 min; Prep: 5 min; Cook: 2 hr; Yield: 14 cups; Level: Easy
To read more, go to: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/slow-cooker-peppermint-hot-chocolate.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
3 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
12 cups whole milk
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon kosher salt
8 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
24 peppermint candies, crushed (about 1 cup), for serving
3 cups mini marshmallows, for serving
2 cups peppermint schnapps, optional, for serving
Directions
Whisk together the sugar and cocoa powder in a 6-quart slow cooker. Turn the cooker to high, and slowly whisk in the milk to prevent lumps from forming. Add the vanilla and salt, cover and cook for 1-1/2 hours. The sugar and cocoa powder should be completely dissolved.
Whisk in the chopped chocolate a little at a time until it is all incorporated. Replace the lid, and cook until thickened, 30 minutes more.
Turn the cooker to warm, and serve with small bowls of the peppermint candies and mini marshmallows and a small pitcher of schnapps, if using. For minty cocoa, let a few teaspoons of the peppermints melt in an 8-ounce cup or add 2 tablespoons of schnapps.
HIBISCUS PUNCH
This is from David Tanis in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this wonderful (and colorful) drink, David wrote, "This bright beverage, inspired by Caribbean sorrel drink and Mexican agua de Jamaica, is made by steeping hibiscus flowers to extract flavor — and color. It is then lightly sweetened and served chilled, like iced tea. Add cinnamon, ginger and allspice if you wish. It makes a great ruby-colored cocktail mixer as well."
Time: 40 minutes, plus chilling; Yield: 6 to 8 servings
This was featured in "Six Easy Recipes for the Ultimate Picnic Spread", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023213-hibiscus-punch.
Ingredients
2 cups dried hibiscus (see Tip)
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
1 (2-inch) chunk of ginger, peeled and chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon allspice berries (optional)
1/2 cup agave syrup or granulated sugar, or to taste
Ice
Lime wedges, for serving
Preparation
Bring 2 quarts water to a boil in a medium stainless-steel pot.
Add hibiscus flowers, and cinnamon, ginger and allspice berries, if using. Turn off heat and steep for at least 30 minutes.
Strain mixture into a pitcher or bowl and cool to room temperature. Sweeten to taste. Serve chilled over ice, with lime wedges.
Tip
You can use whole hibiscus flowers or pieces, but if using pieces, steep for less time, tasting as you go, until it is your desired strength. If you wish, you can also dilute the drink with water to taste.
CHAI LATTE
This is from Meghan Splawn in thekitchn. For this yumminess, Meghan wrote, "I fell in love with the idea of chai through the cartons of this drink mix from the grocery store. The milky sweetness partnered with the astringent black tea drew me in, but the warm spices that lingered between sips kept me drinking. It wasn’t long before the sweetness of those chai drink mixes became too much for me and I started experimenting with chai lattes at home.
"This chai latte gives you complete control over your chai latte experience, from the tea and the spices, to the sweetener and type of milk. All you need is to brew, steep, sweeten your tea, and then froth your milk. The result is a creamy cup of black tea subtly spiced and fragrant with cinnamon, black peppercorns, and ginger, and just the right amount of sweetness, so near perfect that you’ll skip the coffee shop chai (or the carton) and come home to make a pot of this at tea time."
Serves 4
To view this online, go to https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-a-chai-tea-latte-242520. There's also a lot of info for making the chai latte as good as it gets.
Ingredients
2 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
10 whole cloves
6 green cardamom pods, cracked
4 cups water
1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea, or 6 black tea bags
1/2 cup sweetener, such as brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup (optional)
3 cups cold whole milk, coconut milk, or other non-dairy milk
Equipment
Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
Pitcher or teapot
Instructions
Toast the spices. Place the cinnamon, peppercorns, cloves, and cardamom in a small saucepan over medium heat and toast, shaking the pan occasionally, until fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes.
Brew the tea. Add the water and ginger and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Steep the tea. Remove from the heat and add the loose-leaf tea or tea bags. Cover and steep for 10 minutes.
Sweeten the tea. While the tea is still warm, add the sweetener and stir until combined or dissolved.
Strain the tea. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher or teapot. Discard the spices and tea leaves. Store in the refrigerator for future use, or keep it warm while you froth the milk.
Froth the milk. For whole milk, froth the milk by shaking it in a jar or by whisking it vigorously over medium-high heat. For non-dairy milks, use an immersion blender to froth before heating.
Heat the milk. Heat the frothed milk in a small saucepan over low heat until warm.
Serve. Pour 3/4 cup of the warm tea base into each mug. Add 1/2 cup of warmed milk and stir to combine. Top with a heaping spoonful of milk froth.
Recipe Notes
Make ahead: The tea base can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before frothing the milk.
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Where's the Beef?
Years ago, a certain burger chain asked the question, "Where's the beef?
Today's post deals with six beefy recipes, including Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast and Chef John's American Goulash. Enjoy!
GROWN-UP SLOPPY JOES
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Who says Sloppy Joes are only for kids? We've lightened up the typical kid's meal with fresh vegetables and added a bit of spice for good measure. Your kids will still like it, and so will you!"
Cook Time: 15 minutes; Serves: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Beef/Grown-Up-Sloppy-Joes.
Ingredients
1 pound 95% lean ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 small zucchini, shredded
2 cups light spaghetti sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 whole wheat, sandwich thins, split
Directions
In a large skillet, brown ground beef, onion, and zucchini over medium-high heat 10 to 12 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink and zucchini is tender.
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in spaghetti sauce, garlic powder, chili powder, and black pepper. Cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Spoon over bottom halves of sandwich thins, cover with tops, and serve immediately.
HOMEMADE SLOPPY JOES
This yumminess is from John Mitzewish - aka Chef John - on allrecipes. For this recipe, Chef John wrote, "Homemade Sloppy Joes don't have to be difficult to eat. Despite the name of this iconic retro dish, the secret to a great Sloppy Joe is a thick, rich, almost dry consistency, which allows the sandwich to be eaten with your hands. Serve on hamburger buns."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 55 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr 10 minutes; Servings: 6
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/220182/homemade-sloppy-joes/.
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds extra-lean ground beef
1/2 onion, diced
1 green pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups water, divided
3/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1-1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 dash Worcestershire sauce
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
Directions
Gather all ingredients.
Place ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir until beef is browned and crumbled, about 10 minutes.
Stir in green pepper and garlic; cook and stir until softened, 2 to 3 minutes.
Add 1 cup water and stir, scraping the pan to dissolve any brown flavor bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add remaining 1 cup water and bring mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid has evaporated and mixture is thick, about 40 minutes.
Season with salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Serve and enjoy!
CHEF JOHN'S AMERICAN GOULASH
This comes from Chef John at Allrecipes. He wrote, "One of my all-time favorite comfort food meals growing up was the beef goulash they served in my school cafeteria alongside a slice of buttered white bread and a carton of milk. Little did I know that it wasn't really goulash, but an Americanized version, invented to stretch a small amount of beef into enough food for a not-so-small family. This is one of those very simple dishes that does not taste simple--perfect for your weeknight dinner rotation."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour; Additional Time: 5 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings: 12
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/275489/chef-johns-american-goulash/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 pounds ground beef
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
2 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 bay leaves
1 quart chicken broth
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
1 cup water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cups elbow macaroni
1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese (Optional)
Directions
Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and ground beef. Cook, breaking the meat into small pieces, until browned, about 5 minutes. Cook and stir until liquid is evaporated, 3 to 5 minutes more. Add garlic, salt, black pepper, cayenne, paprika, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.
Cook and stir until flavors come together, about 3 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and marinara sauce. Rinse out the jar with 1 cup water and pour into the pot. Add soy sauce, stir, and bring soup to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium and simmer to let flavors intensify, about 30 minutes.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring soup to a simmer. Add macaroni; simmer, stirring occasionally, until just barely tender, about 12 minutes. Check for doneness after 10 minutes.
Remove goulash from heat. Discard bay leaves; stir in parsley and Cheddar cheese. Cover and let rest for 5 minutes. Taste and season as desired.
Chef's Notes:
Make your own Italian herb mix with any desired blend of oregano, thyme, rosemary, sage, parsley, and basil.
Feel free to swap water for chicken broth.
You can also add beans to turn this into an excellent pasta fazool.
CREAMED CHIPPED BEEF ON TOAST
This is from Lisa at allrecipes. The recipe begins, "This chipped beef recipe is straight from my mom. We called it SOS (Same Ole Stuff), and it's great comfort food! It's easy to make and tastes great with a cold beer."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/20225/creamed-chipped-beef-on-toast/.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups warm milk
1 (8 ounce) jar dried beef, chopped
1 pinch cayenne pepper
bread, toasted
Ingredients
Gather all ingredients.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
Add milk a little at a time, whisking well after each addition. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, until thickened.
Stir in beef and cayenne; cook until warmed through.
Serve over toast.
Recipe Tip
This recipe can also be made with 3/4 pound browned, drained hamburger meat.
GROUND BEEF AND SWEET POTATO SKILLET
This is from Andrea Mathis, M.A., RDN, LD at Eating Well, and begins, "This ground beef and sweet potato skillet is a fast, hearty meal made with just five simple ingredients (not counting oil, salt and pepper) for a flavorful one-pan dinner. The sweet potatoes cook until tender, soaking up the savory flavors from the beef and veggies. With no complicated prep or cleanup, it’s a satisfying and stress-free option for any night of the week."
Active Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.eatingwell.com/ground-beef-sweet-potato-skillet-11706161.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 medium red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound lean ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed and diced (4 cups)
2 medium green bell peppers, chopped (1 cup)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Directions
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add ground beef; cook, stirring occasionally and breaking it apart, until no longer pink, 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in diced sweet potatoes, chopped bell pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender, 10 to 12 minutes.
Nutrition Information: Serving Size: 1-1/2 cups; Calories: 263, Fat: 9g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 70mg, Carbohydrates: 18g, Total Sugars: 5g, Added Sugars: 0g, Protein: 26g, Fiber: 3g, Sodium: 259mg, Potassium: 744mg
IRISH BEEF POT PIE
This is from Diabetic Gourmet, and begins, "Tender Flat Iron Steaks are quickly cooked in a hot skillet before adding mushrooms, carrots and peas – and it’s tossed in a savory gravy. The Irish beef pot pie is topped off with flaky pastry dough for a truly satisfying meal. Flat iron steak is also called butlers’ steak or oyster blade steak."
Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/irish-beef-pot-pie.
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds beef Flat Iron Steaks
1 package (8 ounces) cremini mushrooms, sliced
1-1/2 cups frozen crinkle-cut carrots
1-1/2 cups frozen peas
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, divided
1 teaspoon minced garlic, divided
Salt and Pepper
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 can (14 to 14-1/4 ounces) ready-to-serve beef broth
1 refrigerated pie crust (1/2 of a 15-ounce package)
Directions
Heat oven to 425F.
Cut beef steak lengthwise in half, then crosswise into 1/4-inch thick strips.
Spray large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat until hot.
Add mushrooms; cook and stir 3 minutes. Add carrots, peas, 1 teaspoon thyme and 1/2 teaspoon garlic; cook and stir an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until carrots and peas are defrosted. Remove from skillet; set aside.
In same skillet, add 1/2 of beef; cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until outside surface of beef is no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper, as desired. Remove from skillet with slotted spoon; set aside. Repeat with remaining beef.
Dissolve cornstarch into beef broth; add to skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir about 1 minute or until sauce is slightly thickened and any browned bits on bottom of skillet are dissolved. Return vegetables and beef to pan; stir to combine.
Place beef mixture in 2-inch deep, 9-inch pie plate or similar sized round baking dish. Unfold pie crust on flat surface, pressing out fold lines with fingers.
Place crust over beef mixture allowing edges to drape over pie plate. Sprinkle remaining 1 teaspoon thyme and 1/2 teaspoon garlic evenly onto top of crust. Place pie plate on 15-1/2 x 10-1/2 x 1-inch jelly-roll pan.
Bake in 425F oven 16 to 18 minutes or until crust is golden.
Remove from oven to wire rack; let cool 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 402; Fat: 18 grams; Sodium: 490 milligrams; Cholesterol: 58 milligrams; Protein: 27 grams; Carbohydrates: 31 grams
Today's post deals with six beefy recipes, including Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast and Chef John's American Goulash. Enjoy!
GROWN-UP SLOPPY JOES
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Who says Sloppy Joes are only for kids? We've lightened up the typical kid's meal with fresh vegetables and added a bit of spice for good measure. Your kids will still like it, and so will you!"
Cook Time: 15 minutes; Serves: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Beef/Grown-Up-Sloppy-Joes.
Ingredients
1 pound 95% lean ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 small zucchini, shredded
2 cups light spaghetti sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 whole wheat, sandwich thins, split
Directions
In a large skillet, brown ground beef, onion, and zucchini over medium-high heat 10 to 12 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink and zucchini is tender.
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in spaghetti sauce, garlic powder, chili powder, and black pepper. Cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Spoon over bottom halves of sandwich thins, cover with tops, and serve immediately.
HOMEMADE SLOPPY JOES
This yumminess is from John Mitzewish - aka Chef John - on allrecipes. For this recipe, Chef John wrote, "Homemade Sloppy Joes don't have to be difficult to eat. Despite the name of this iconic retro dish, the secret to a great Sloppy Joe is a thick, rich, almost dry consistency, which allows the sandwich to be eaten with your hands. Serve on hamburger buns."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 55 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr 10 minutes; Servings: 6
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/220182/homemade-sloppy-joes/.
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds extra-lean ground beef
1/2 onion, diced
1 green pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups water, divided
3/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1-1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 dash Worcestershire sauce
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
Directions
Gather all ingredients.
Place ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir until beef is browned and crumbled, about 10 minutes.
Stir in green pepper and garlic; cook and stir until softened, 2 to 3 minutes.
Add 1 cup water and stir, scraping the pan to dissolve any brown flavor bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add remaining 1 cup water and bring mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid has evaporated and mixture is thick, about 40 minutes.
Season with salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Serve and enjoy!
CHEF JOHN'S AMERICAN GOULASH
This comes from Chef John at Allrecipes. He wrote, "One of my all-time favorite comfort food meals growing up was the beef goulash they served in my school cafeteria alongside a slice of buttered white bread and a carton of milk. Little did I know that it wasn't really goulash, but an Americanized version, invented to stretch a small amount of beef into enough food for a not-so-small family. This is one of those very simple dishes that does not taste simple--perfect for your weeknight dinner rotation."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour; Additional Time: 5 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings: 12
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/275489/chef-johns-american-goulash/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 pounds ground beef
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
2 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 bay leaves
1 quart chicken broth
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
1 cup water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cups elbow macaroni
1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese (Optional)
Directions
Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and ground beef. Cook, breaking the meat into small pieces, until browned, about 5 minutes. Cook and stir until liquid is evaporated, 3 to 5 minutes more. Add garlic, salt, black pepper, cayenne, paprika, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.
Cook and stir until flavors come together, about 3 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and marinara sauce. Rinse out the jar with 1 cup water and pour into the pot. Add soy sauce, stir, and bring soup to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium and simmer to let flavors intensify, about 30 minutes.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring soup to a simmer. Add macaroni; simmer, stirring occasionally, until just barely tender, about 12 minutes. Check for doneness after 10 minutes.
Remove goulash from heat. Discard bay leaves; stir in parsley and Cheddar cheese. Cover and let rest for 5 minutes. Taste and season as desired.
Chef's Notes:
Make your own Italian herb mix with any desired blend of oregano, thyme, rosemary, sage, parsley, and basil.
Feel free to swap water for chicken broth.
You can also add beans to turn this into an excellent pasta fazool.
CREAMED CHIPPED BEEF ON TOAST
This is from Lisa at allrecipes. The recipe begins, "This chipped beef recipe is straight from my mom. We called it SOS (Same Ole Stuff), and it's great comfort food! It's easy to make and tastes great with a cold beer."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/20225/creamed-chipped-beef-on-toast/.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups warm milk
1 (8 ounce) jar dried beef, chopped
1 pinch cayenne pepper
bread, toasted
Ingredients
Gather all ingredients.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
Add milk a little at a time, whisking well after each addition. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, until thickened.
Stir in beef and cayenne; cook until warmed through.
Serve over toast.
Recipe Tip
This recipe can also be made with 3/4 pound browned, drained hamburger meat.
GROUND BEEF AND SWEET POTATO SKILLET
This is from Andrea Mathis, M.A., RDN, LD at Eating Well, and begins, "This ground beef and sweet potato skillet is a fast, hearty meal made with just five simple ingredients (not counting oil, salt and pepper) for a flavorful one-pan dinner. The sweet potatoes cook until tender, soaking up the savory flavors from the beef and veggies. With no complicated prep or cleanup, it’s a satisfying and stress-free option for any night of the week."
Active Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.eatingwell.com/ground-beef-sweet-potato-skillet-11706161.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 medium red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound lean ground beef
2 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed and diced (4 cups)
2 medium green bell peppers, chopped (1 cup)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Directions
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add ground beef; cook, stirring occasionally and breaking it apart, until no longer pink, 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in diced sweet potatoes, chopped bell pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender, 10 to 12 minutes.
Nutrition Information: Serving Size: 1-1/2 cups; Calories: 263, Fat: 9g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 70mg, Carbohydrates: 18g, Total Sugars: 5g, Added Sugars: 0g, Protein: 26g, Fiber: 3g, Sodium: 259mg, Potassium: 744mg
IRISH BEEF POT PIE
This is from Diabetic Gourmet, and begins, "Tender Flat Iron Steaks are quickly cooked in a hot skillet before adding mushrooms, carrots and peas – and it’s tossed in a savory gravy. The Irish beef pot pie is topped off with flaky pastry dough for a truly satisfying meal. Flat iron steak is also called butlers’ steak or oyster blade steak."
Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/irish-beef-pot-pie.
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds beef Flat Iron Steaks
1 package (8 ounces) cremini mushrooms, sliced
1-1/2 cups frozen crinkle-cut carrots
1-1/2 cups frozen peas
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, divided
1 teaspoon minced garlic, divided
Salt and Pepper
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 can (14 to 14-1/4 ounces) ready-to-serve beef broth
1 refrigerated pie crust (1/2 of a 15-ounce package)
Directions
Heat oven to 425F.
Cut beef steak lengthwise in half, then crosswise into 1/4-inch thick strips.
Spray large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat until hot.
Add mushrooms; cook and stir 3 minutes. Add carrots, peas, 1 teaspoon thyme and 1/2 teaspoon garlic; cook and stir an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until carrots and peas are defrosted. Remove from skillet; set aside.
In same skillet, add 1/2 of beef; cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until outside surface of beef is no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper, as desired. Remove from skillet with slotted spoon; set aside. Repeat with remaining beef.
Dissolve cornstarch into beef broth; add to skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir about 1 minute or until sauce is slightly thickened and any browned bits on bottom of skillet are dissolved. Return vegetables and beef to pan; stir to combine.
Place beef mixture in 2-inch deep, 9-inch pie plate or similar sized round baking dish. Unfold pie crust on flat surface, pressing out fold lines with fingers.
Place crust over beef mixture allowing edges to drape over pie plate. Sprinkle remaining 1 teaspoon thyme and 1/2 teaspoon garlic evenly onto top of crust. Place pie plate on 15-1/2 x 10-1/2 x 1-inch jelly-roll pan.
Bake in 425F oven 16 to 18 minutes or until crust is golden.
Remove from oven to wire rack; let cool 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 402; Fat: 18 grams; Sodium: 490 milligrams; Cholesterol: 58 milligrams; Protein: 27 grams; Carbohydrates: 31 grams
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Today's offerings include a little of this, a little of that, and a lot of yum. Check out the Southwest Meatloaf, the Sweet Potato Casserole, or any of the other recipes in today's post. Enjoy!
PERFECT ROAST CHICKEN
This is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 20 minutes; Inactive Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes; Makes 8 servings; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 (5 to 6 pound) roasting chicken
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 large bunch fresh thyme, plus 20 sprigs
1 lemon, halved
1 head garlic, cut in half crosswise
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter, melted
1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced
4 carrots cut into 2-inch chunks
1 bulb of fennel, tops removed, and cut into wedges
Olive oil
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Remove the chicken giblets. Rinse the chicken inside and out. Remove any excess fat and leftover pin feathers and pat the outside dry. Liberally salt and pepper the inside of the chicken. Stuff the cavity with the bunch of thyme, both halves of lemon, and all the garlic. Brush the outside of the chicken with the butter and sprinkle again with salt and pepper. Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken. Place the onions, carrots, and fennel in a roasting pan. Toss with salt, pepper, 20 sprigs of thyme, and olive oil. Spread around the bottom of the roasting pan and place the chicken on top.
Roast the chicken for 1-1/2 hours, or until the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and thigh. Remove the chicken and vegetables to a platter and cover with aluminum foil for about 20 minutes. Slice the chicken onto a platter and serve it with the vegetables.
SOUTHWEST MEATLOAF
Recipe Yield: Makes 6 to 8 servings
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/southwest-meatloaf.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef (95% lean)
1 cup soft bread crumbs
3/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1 large clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa
Directions
Heat oven to 350F. Combine all ingredients in large bowl except salsa, mixing lightly but thoroughly.
Shape beef mixture into 10 x 4-inch loaf on rack in broiler pan. Bake in 350F oven 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160F.
Let stand 10 minutes. Top with salsa; cut into slices.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 280; Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1.8 g; Sodium: 313 mg; Cholesterol: 120 mg; Protein: 34 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
4 medium Sweet potatoes or yams (about 2 lb)
1/4 cup Packed brown sugar
1/4 cup Butter
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1 Can (8 oz) crushed pineapple
1 tablespoon Packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon Butter
1 teaspoon Water
1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups Miniature marshmallows
1/4 cup Chopped pecans
Directions
Wash sweet potatoes. Prick each 2 or 3 times with fork to allow steam to escape. Arrange in oven at least 1 inch apart. Microwave at HIGH (100%) until fork-tender, 8 to 10 mins. Cover & let stand 5 minutes.
Peel and slice potatoes. Place in 2-quart casserole. Add 1/4 cup butter and the salt. Mash until no lumps remain. Mix in pineapple. Microwave at HIGH (100%) 2 minutes. Stir and set aside.
Place 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon butter, the water, cinnamon, and nutmeg in medium bowl. Microwave at HIGH (100%) until butter is melted, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, stirring after half the time. Add marshmallows; toss to coat. Top sweet potato mixture with marshmallows. Microwave at HIGH (100 % until the marshmallows are melted and potatoes are heated through, 2 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle with pecans.
CREAMY CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This yummy soup is from Chungah, on her wonderful site, Damn Delicious. I've mentioned her site once or twice. But if you haven't visited it yet, I highly recommend it. Go ahead, I'll wait. (Tap, tap, tap...)
Okay, hopefully you checked it out. Now, this recipe begins, "So warm, so cozy, so soothing. A must for those busy cold weeknights, using up that leftover rotisserie chicken!"
Yield: 8 servings; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes
You can view this online at https://damndelicious.net/2022/04/29/creamy-chicken-noodle-soup/.
Ingredients
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 sweet onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup dry white wine
6 cups chicken stock
1 bay leaf
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 cups leftover shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups wide egg noodles
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup frozen green peas
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Directions
Melt butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and thyme until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Stir in wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in chicken stock and bay leaf; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, until flavors have blended, about 10 minutes.
Stir in chicken and pasta and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, peas and parsley until heated through, about 1-2 minutes; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve immediately.
COLORFUL TURKEY STUFFED PEPPERS
Yield: 4 servings
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1321
View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1321.shtml
Source: Jennie-O
Ingredients
2 bell peppers, preferably a mix of yellow, green or red
1/2 (16-ounce) package Jennie-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1/4 teaspoon salt, if desired
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (14-1/2-ounce) can low-sodium diced tomatoes or seasoned diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup cooked white or brown rice
3/4 cup shredded low-fat Cheddar cheese, divided
paprika, if desired
fresh parsley, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 375F.
Cut bell peppers lengthwise through stems keeping stem halves intact to hold stuffing. Discard seeds and veins.
Cook peppers in boiling salted water 5 to 6 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately place peppers in ice water to stop cooking process. Drain peppers well and place cut side up in 8 x 8-inch baking dish.
Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Add onion, garlic, basil, salt, if desired, ground pepper, tomatoes, and rice; continue to cook 5 to 6 minutes or until heated through and most of the juices have reduced.
Remove meat mixture from heat and stir in 1/2 cup cheese.
Mound heaping 1/2 cup of mixture into each pepper half.
Bake 20 minutes or until filling is hot and peppers are tender.
Remove peppers from oven and sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheese on top of peppers. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley, if desired.
Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F. Learn how to safely handle turkey.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Protein: 20 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 210 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g
STUFFED PEPPERS
This is from Lidey Heuck in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. The recipe begins, "These classic stuffed peppers are as flexible as they are delicious: The filling combines lean ground beef with sautéed vegetables and cooked white rice (the perfect use for leftover takeout rice!), but ground turkey, chicken or pork can be substituted in its place. Topped with melty mozzarella, these peppers will feed a hungry crowd. For a speedy weeknight dinner, make the filling, stuff the peppers and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking."
Time: 1-1/4 hours; Makes 6 to 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1021007-stuffed-peppers.
Ingredients
4 large red, orange or yellow bell peppers
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup finely chopped fennel bulb (about 1/2 a small bulb) or celery
1 cup finely chopped yellow onion (about 1 small)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
1 pound ground beef (at least 15 percent fat), turkey, chicken or pork
3/4 cup dry white wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 (14-ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
1 cup cooked white or brown rice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, plus more for serving (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella, provolone or other semifirm cheese
Preparation
Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the peppers in half lengthwise and carefully remove core, seeds and ribs using a paring knife. Arrange the peppers, cut-sides up, in a 9-by-13-inch pan or other baking dish in which they fit snugly.
In a large (12-inch) skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the fennel and onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano and red-pepper flakes, and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the beef and cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, for 3 to 5 minutes, until no longer pink.
Add 1/2 cup wine, increase the heat to medium-high and cook, scraping the bottom of the pan, until the liquid in the pan is reduced by about half.
Add the tomatoes and their juices, salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and stir in the rice, Parmesan and parsley, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Divide the mixture among the peppers. Pour the remaining 1/4 cup wine into the bottom of the dish, wrap tightly with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until a paring knife easily pierces the peppers. Remove the foil and spoon any juices that have accumulated in the bottom of the pan onto the peppers. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly onto the peppers and bake another 10 to 15 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted and beginning to brown.
Allow the peppers to cool for 5 minutes, sprinkle with parsley, if using, and serve hot.
PERFECT ROAST CHICKEN
This is from Ina Garten on the Food Network. Prep Time: 20 minutes; Inactive Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes; Makes 8 servings; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 (5 to 6 pound) roasting chicken
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 large bunch fresh thyme, plus 20 sprigs
1 lemon, halved
1 head garlic, cut in half crosswise
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter, melted
1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced
4 carrots cut into 2-inch chunks
1 bulb of fennel, tops removed, and cut into wedges
Olive oil
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Remove the chicken giblets. Rinse the chicken inside and out. Remove any excess fat and leftover pin feathers and pat the outside dry. Liberally salt and pepper the inside of the chicken. Stuff the cavity with the bunch of thyme, both halves of lemon, and all the garlic. Brush the outside of the chicken with the butter and sprinkle again with salt and pepper. Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken. Place the onions, carrots, and fennel in a roasting pan. Toss with salt, pepper, 20 sprigs of thyme, and olive oil. Spread around the bottom of the roasting pan and place the chicken on top.
Roast the chicken for 1-1/2 hours, or until the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and thigh. Remove the chicken and vegetables to a platter and cover with aluminum foil for about 20 minutes. Slice the chicken onto a platter and serve it with the vegetables.
SOUTHWEST MEATLOAF
Recipe Yield: Makes 6 to 8 servings
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/southwest-meatloaf.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef (95% lean)
1 cup soft bread crumbs
3/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1 large clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa
Directions
Heat oven to 350F. Combine all ingredients in large bowl except salsa, mixing lightly but thoroughly.
Shape beef mixture into 10 x 4-inch loaf on rack in broiler pan. Bake in 350F oven 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160F.
Let stand 10 minutes. Top with salsa; cut into slices.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 280; Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1.8 g; Sodium: 313 mg; Cholesterol: 120 mg; Protein: 34 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
4 medium Sweet potatoes or yams (about 2 lb)
1/4 cup Packed brown sugar
1/4 cup Butter
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1 Can (8 oz) crushed pineapple
1 tablespoon Packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon Butter
1 teaspoon Water
1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups Miniature marshmallows
1/4 cup Chopped pecans
Directions
Wash sweet potatoes. Prick each 2 or 3 times with fork to allow steam to escape. Arrange in oven at least 1 inch apart. Microwave at HIGH (100%) until fork-tender, 8 to 10 mins. Cover & let stand 5 minutes.
Peel and slice potatoes. Place in 2-quart casserole. Add 1/4 cup butter and the salt. Mash until no lumps remain. Mix in pineapple. Microwave at HIGH (100%) 2 minutes. Stir and set aside.
Place 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon butter, the water, cinnamon, and nutmeg in medium bowl. Microwave at HIGH (100%) until butter is melted, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, stirring after half the time. Add marshmallows; toss to coat. Top sweet potato mixture with marshmallows. Microwave at HIGH (100 % until the marshmallows are melted and potatoes are heated through, 2 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle with pecans.
CREAMY CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This yummy soup is from Chungah, on her wonderful site, Damn Delicious. I've mentioned her site once or twice. But if you haven't visited it yet, I highly recommend it. Go ahead, I'll wait. (Tap, tap, tap...)
Okay, hopefully you checked it out. Now, this recipe begins, "So warm, so cozy, so soothing. A must for those busy cold weeknights, using up that leftover rotisserie chicken!"
Yield: 8 servings; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes
You can view this online at https://damndelicious.net/2022/04/29/creamy-chicken-noodle-soup/.
Ingredients
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 sweet onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup dry white wine
6 cups chicken stock
1 bay leaf
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 cups leftover shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups wide egg noodles
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup frozen green peas
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Directions
Melt butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and thyme until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Stir in wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in chicken stock and bay leaf; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, until flavors have blended, about 10 minutes.
Stir in chicken and pasta and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, peas and parsley until heated through, about 1-2 minutes; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve immediately.
COLORFUL TURKEY STUFFED PEPPERS
Yield: 4 servings
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1321
View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1321.shtml
Source: Jennie-O
Ingredients
2 bell peppers, preferably a mix of yellow, green or red
1/2 (16-ounce) package Jennie-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1/4 teaspoon salt, if desired
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (14-1/2-ounce) can low-sodium diced tomatoes or seasoned diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup cooked white or brown rice
3/4 cup shredded low-fat Cheddar cheese, divided
paprika, if desired
fresh parsley, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 375F.
Cut bell peppers lengthwise through stems keeping stem halves intact to hold stuffing. Discard seeds and veins.
Cook peppers in boiling salted water 5 to 6 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately place peppers in ice water to stop cooking process. Drain peppers well and place cut side up in 8 x 8-inch baking dish.
Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Add onion, garlic, basil, salt, if desired, ground pepper, tomatoes, and rice; continue to cook 5 to 6 minutes or until heated through and most of the juices have reduced.
Remove meat mixture from heat and stir in 1/2 cup cheese.
Mound heaping 1/2 cup of mixture into each pepper half.
Bake 20 minutes or until filling is hot and peppers are tender.
Remove peppers from oven and sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheese on top of peppers. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley, if desired.
Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F. Learn how to safely handle turkey.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Protein: 20 g; Fat: 2.5 g; Sodium: 210 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g
STUFFED PEPPERS
This is from Lidey Heuck in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. The recipe begins, "These classic stuffed peppers are as flexible as they are delicious: The filling combines lean ground beef with sautéed vegetables and cooked white rice (the perfect use for leftover takeout rice!), but ground turkey, chicken or pork can be substituted in its place. Topped with melty mozzarella, these peppers will feed a hungry crowd. For a speedy weeknight dinner, make the filling, stuff the peppers and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking."
Time: 1-1/4 hours; Makes 6 to 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1021007-stuffed-peppers.
Ingredients
4 large red, orange or yellow bell peppers
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup finely chopped fennel bulb (about 1/2 a small bulb) or celery
1 cup finely chopped yellow onion (about 1 small)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
1 pound ground beef (at least 15 percent fat), turkey, chicken or pork
3/4 cup dry white wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 (14-ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
1 cup cooked white or brown rice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, plus more for serving (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella, provolone or other semifirm cheese
Preparation
Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the peppers in half lengthwise and carefully remove core, seeds and ribs using a paring knife. Arrange the peppers, cut-sides up, in a 9-by-13-inch pan or other baking dish in which they fit snugly.
In a large (12-inch) skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the fennel and onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano and red-pepper flakes, and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the beef and cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, for 3 to 5 minutes, until no longer pink.
Add 1/2 cup wine, increase the heat to medium-high and cook, scraping the bottom of the pan, until the liquid in the pan is reduced by about half.
Add the tomatoes and their juices, salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and stir in the rice, Parmesan and parsley, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Divide the mixture among the peppers. Pour the remaining 1/4 cup wine into the bottom of the dish, wrap tightly with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until a paring knife easily pierces the peppers. Remove the foil and spoon any juices that have accumulated in the bottom of the pan onto the peppers. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly onto the peppers and bake another 10 to 15 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted and beginning to brown.
Allow the peppers to cool for 5 minutes, sprinkle with parsley, if using, and serve hot.
Taco Tuesday
It's time for another Taco Tuesday. Yay! Today's offerings include Perfect Fish Tacos and Baja Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Slaw. Enjoy!
SHRIMP TACOS
This is from Yewande Komolafe at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this yumminess, Yewande wrote, "Spiced shrimp and quick-pickled red cabbage fill corn tortillas for dressed-up tacos that are easy to put together and sure to be a favorite. The seasoned shrimp is cooked in a heated skillet for a slight char, but resist the temptation to move the pieces before the contact side is properly browned. You can keep the add-ons simple with slices of creamy avocado, bits of fresh cilantro and acidic bursts from lime slices. Or bulk up with dollops of guacamole, chunky pico de gallo, and sour cream. The choice is yours!"
Total Time: 35 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023929-shrimp-tacos. While you're at it, if you haven't already signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Ingredients
1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp, tails removed
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola
Kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)
1-1/2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage (1/4 small cabbage)
2 limes
12 corn tortillas
Guacamole
Sour cream or crema
Pico de gallo
Cilantro leaves
Preparation
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the cumin, cayenne, onion powder, garlic, black pepper and 1 tablespoon oil. Season the shrimp lightly with salt. If you have time, you can refrigerate the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 12 hours.
Squeeze 1 tablespoon juice from 1 lime. Slice the remaining lime into wedges for serving. In a small bowl, quick pickle the cabbage by combining the shredded cabbage with the lime juice and a pinch of salt. Toss together and set aside.
Heat a large (12-inch) skillet over medium. Warm a tortilla in the dry skillet, flipping once, until soft and pliable, about 30 seconds. Place in a dish towel to keep warm. Repeat until all the tortillas are warmed, stacking and wrapping them in the dish towel until ready to use.
Heat a tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium-high. Add half of the shrimp and cook without stirring until the contact side is browned around the edges, about 3 minutes. Flip to cook the other side for 1 to 2 minutes, until the shrimp is fully cooked. Move to a plate and cook the remaining shrimp, heating up the remaining tablespoon of oil before adding the shrimp to get a nice sear.
To assemble, spread some guacamole down the middle of each tortilla. Divide the shrimp among the warm tortillas and top with crema, pico de gallo, quick pickled cabbage and cilantro leaves. Serve immediately with lime slices for squeezing.
SWEET POTATO AND SPINACH CHICKEN TACOS
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, "Unexpected taco fillings are all the rage on the food truck scene. Make these rich and savory versions at home!"
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4; Serving Size: 1 taco
To view this online, go to https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/sweet-potato-and-spinach-chicken-tacos.html.
Ingredients
1-1/2 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic (minced)
24 oz. baby spinach
1 (about 8 oz) large sweet potato (peeled and diced)
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 tbsp water
1 cup cooked shredded chicken
4 6-inch corn tortillas (warmed)
4 tsp light sour cream
1/2 cup pico de gallo or salsa
Directions
In a large nonstick pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the spinach and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the sweet potato, cumin, black pepper, and water to the pan. Sauté for 2 minutes. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 8 minutes.
Add the chicken to the pan and mix to incorporate. Heat for 2 minutes.
Fill each tortilla with 1/4 of the chicken and sweet potato mixture. Top with 1 Tsp. of sour cream and 2 Tbsp. of pico de gallo.
BAJA SHRIMP TACOS WITH CREAMY SLAW
This is from Real Simple, and begins, " For these tacos, we took a couple extra steps to keep the batter for the fried shrimp light: 1) We cut the flour with a little cornstarch, which prevents it from getting tough (because cornstarch has no gluten), but you can substitute rice flour or arrowroot; and 2) Bubbles in the seltzer add air, so the batter stays crisp and light. Pro tip: Whisk your batter over an ice bath to preserve more seltzer bubbles, and then keep it cold until ready to use.
"A tangy cabbage slaw topping balances the richness of the fried shrimp, and then lime, hot sauce, and sliced scallions seal the deal."
Hands On Time: 25minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/baja-shrimp-tacos-creamy-slaw.
Ingredients
For the slaw:
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1-1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage (about 6 oz.)
2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage (about 6 oz.)
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the tacos:
Vegetable oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup seltzer or club soda
1 large egg white
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 6-in. flour tortillas, warmed
Lime wedges, hot sauce, and sliced scallions, for serving
Directions
Prepare the Slaw: Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and cayenne in a large bowl, add both cabbages and cilantro, and then toss to combine. Let stand at least 20 minutes.
Prepare the Tacos: Pour oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 inches, affix with a deep-fry thermometer, and then heat over medium-high to 350°F.
Combine flour, cornstarch, and salt in a medium bowl, and then make a well in the center and whisk in seltzer and egg white until just combined.
Dredge a half-pound of shrimp in batter, shaking off excess, and then carefully lower into hot oil and fry, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes.
Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and then repeat with remaining shrimp.
Divide shrimp evenly among tortillas and top with slaw, hot sauce, and scallions. Serve with lime wedges.
TACOS CON PUERCO
Recipe Yield: Yield: Serves 4
Source: NPB
Recipe and image appear courtesy of the National Pork Board.
To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/tacos-con-puerco.
Ingredients
1 pound Ground Pork
1 (14-1/2 oz) can tomatoes, diced, fire-roasted
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste
8 taco shells
2 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded
2 tomatoes, cut in wedges
1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions
In heavy skillet, brown ground pork; stir in undrained canned tomatoes, onion, chili powder and garlic powder.
Bring to boiling; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until most liquid evaporates, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Heat taco shells and portion filling into shells; top with tomatoes and lettuce.
Notes:
Set up the table for everyone to be able to assemble their own tacos. Remember to have salsa, sour cream, hot sauce, guacamole and other taco favorites for condiments.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 285; Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 238 mg; Cholesterol: 57 mg; Protein: 25 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g
PERFECT FISH TACOS
This is from Lauren Miyashiro, the former Food Director and currently a "contributing recipe" for Delish. Lauren wrote, "Love fish tacos? Well, these are the end-all be-all...
"The fish—we use cod, but any flaky variety, like tilapia, works—marinates in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin that will become your standard. (Seriously, steak or chicken marinated in this will also taste bomb.) But the real gem of this recipe is the cabbage slaw—don't skip it. It takes just a few minutes to toss together and its brightness is the perfect condiment to the spiced cod."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Yields: 4 servings
To view this online, including the rest of what Lauren wrote, go to https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a53296/easy-fish-taco-recipe/.
Ingredients
3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1-1/2 lb. cod (or other flaky white fish)
1/2 tbsp. vegetable oil
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
8 corn tortillas
1 avocado, diced
Lime wedges, for serving
Sour cream, for serving
For the corn slaw:
1/4 c. mayonnaise
Juice of 1 lime
2 tbsp. freshly chopped cilantro
1 tbsp. honey
2 c. shredded purple cabbage
1 c. corn kernels
1 jalapeño, minced
Directions
In a medium shallow bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne.
Add cod, tossing until evenly coated. Let marinate 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, make slaw: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, and honey. Stir in cabbage, corn, and jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Remove cod from marinade and season both sides of each filet with salt and pepper. Add fish flesh side-down. Cook until opaque and cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Let rest 5 minutes before flaking with a fork.
Assemble tacos: Serve fish over grilled tortillas with corn slaw and avocado. Squeeze lime juice on top and garnish with sour cream.
BLACK BEAN TACOS WITH ROASTED PEPPERS AND ONIONS
This comes from Vegetarian Times. This one begins, “For a fast meal that’s a surefire crowd-pleaser, these tacos fit the bill.” Yield: Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
Roasted Peppers and Onions
3 red bell peppers, thinly sliced (3 cups)
1 large onion, thinly sliced (1-1/2 cups)
1 Tbs. olive oil
Tacos
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup)
6 cloves garlic, minced (2 Tbs.)
2 15-oz. cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-oz. can diced organic fire-roasted tomatoes
1 Tbs. chili powder
1 Tbs. ground cumin
1/8 tsp. hot sauce, or more to taste
16 organic corn taco shells, warmed
Toppings
3 cups shredded lettuce
1 16-oz. container prepared salsa
2 large tomatoes, diced (2 cups)
2 avocados, diced (2 cups)
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup low-fat sour cream
Instructions:
To make Roasted Peppers and Onions: Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss peppers and onion with oil on large baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Roast 15 minutes, stir, and roast 15 minutes more, or until vegetables are tender and peppers are beginning to blacken. Transfer to small bowl.
Meanwhile, to make Tacos: Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until soft. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute more, or until fragrant. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, and 1 cup water. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 15 minutes, or until most of liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally. Mash beans until filling is thickened, but chunky, and most beans remain intact. Adjust seasonings, if necessary. Transfer to serving bowl. Pass taco shells, filling, Roasted Peppers and Onions, and Toppings around the table.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 482; Protein: 16 g; Total Fat: 22 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 57 g; Cholesterol: 17 mg; Sodium: 665 mg; Fiber: 12 g; Sugar: 14 g
SHRIMP TACOS
This is from Yewande Komolafe at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this yumminess, Yewande wrote, "Spiced shrimp and quick-pickled red cabbage fill corn tortillas for dressed-up tacos that are easy to put together and sure to be a favorite. The seasoned shrimp is cooked in a heated skillet for a slight char, but resist the temptation to move the pieces before the contact side is properly browned. You can keep the add-ons simple with slices of creamy avocado, bits of fresh cilantro and acidic bursts from lime slices. Or bulk up with dollops of guacamole, chunky pico de gallo, and sour cream. The choice is yours!"
Total Time: 35 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023929-shrimp-tacos. While you're at it, if you haven't already signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Ingredients
1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp, tails removed
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola
Kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)
1-1/2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage (1/4 small cabbage)
2 limes
12 corn tortillas
Guacamole
Sour cream or crema
Pico de gallo
Cilantro leaves
Preparation
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the cumin, cayenne, onion powder, garlic, black pepper and 1 tablespoon oil. Season the shrimp lightly with salt. If you have time, you can refrigerate the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 12 hours.
Squeeze 1 tablespoon juice from 1 lime. Slice the remaining lime into wedges for serving. In a small bowl, quick pickle the cabbage by combining the shredded cabbage with the lime juice and a pinch of salt. Toss together and set aside.
Heat a large (12-inch) skillet over medium. Warm a tortilla in the dry skillet, flipping once, until soft and pliable, about 30 seconds. Place in a dish towel to keep warm. Repeat until all the tortillas are warmed, stacking and wrapping them in the dish towel until ready to use.
Heat a tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium-high. Add half of the shrimp and cook without stirring until the contact side is browned around the edges, about 3 minutes. Flip to cook the other side for 1 to 2 minutes, until the shrimp is fully cooked. Move to a plate and cook the remaining shrimp, heating up the remaining tablespoon of oil before adding the shrimp to get a nice sear.
To assemble, spread some guacamole down the middle of each tortilla. Divide the shrimp among the warm tortillas and top with crema, pico de gallo, quick pickled cabbage and cilantro leaves. Serve immediately with lime slices for squeezing.
SWEET POTATO AND SPINACH CHICKEN TACOS
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, "Unexpected taco fillings are all the rage on the food truck scene. Make these rich and savory versions at home!"
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4; Serving Size: 1 taco
To view this online, go to https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/sweet-potato-and-spinach-chicken-tacos.html.
Ingredients
1-1/2 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic (minced)
24 oz. baby spinach
1 (about 8 oz) large sweet potato (peeled and diced)
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 tbsp water
1 cup cooked shredded chicken
4 6-inch corn tortillas (warmed)
4 tsp light sour cream
1/2 cup pico de gallo or salsa
Directions
In a large nonstick pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the spinach and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the sweet potato, cumin, black pepper, and water to the pan. Sauté for 2 minutes. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 8 minutes.
Add the chicken to the pan and mix to incorporate. Heat for 2 minutes.
Fill each tortilla with 1/4 of the chicken and sweet potato mixture. Top with 1 Tsp. of sour cream and 2 Tbsp. of pico de gallo.
BAJA SHRIMP TACOS WITH CREAMY SLAW
This is from Real Simple, and begins, " For these tacos, we took a couple extra steps to keep the batter for the fried shrimp light: 1) We cut the flour with a little cornstarch, which prevents it from getting tough (because cornstarch has no gluten), but you can substitute rice flour or arrowroot; and 2) Bubbles in the seltzer add air, so the batter stays crisp and light. Pro tip: Whisk your batter over an ice bath to preserve more seltzer bubbles, and then keep it cold until ready to use.
"A tangy cabbage slaw topping balances the richness of the fried shrimp, and then lime, hot sauce, and sliced scallions seal the deal."
Hands On Time: 25minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/baja-shrimp-tacos-creamy-slaw.
Ingredients
For the slaw:
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1-1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage (about 6 oz.)
2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage (about 6 oz.)
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the tacos:
Vegetable oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup seltzer or club soda
1 large egg white
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 6-in. flour tortillas, warmed
Lime wedges, hot sauce, and sliced scallions, for serving
Directions
Prepare the Slaw: Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and cayenne in a large bowl, add both cabbages and cilantro, and then toss to combine. Let stand at least 20 minutes.
Prepare the Tacos: Pour oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 inches, affix with a deep-fry thermometer, and then heat over medium-high to 350°F.
Combine flour, cornstarch, and salt in a medium bowl, and then make a well in the center and whisk in seltzer and egg white until just combined.
Dredge a half-pound of shrimp in batter, shaking off excess, and then carefully lower into hot oil and fry, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes.
Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and then repeat with remaining shrimp.
Divide shrimp evenly among tortillas and top with slaw, hot sauce, and scallions. Serve with lime wedges.
TACOS CON PUERCO
Recipe Yield: Yield: Serves 4
Source: NPB
Recipe and image appear courtesy of the National Pork Board.
To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/tacos-con-puerco.
Ingredients
1 pound Ground Pork
1 (14-1/2 oz) can tomatoes, diced, fire-roasted
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste
8 taco shells
2 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded
2 tomatoes, cut in wedges
1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions
In heavy skillet, brown ground pork; stir in undrained canned tomatoes, onion, chili powder and garlic powder.
Bring to boiling; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until most liquid evaporates, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Heat taco shells and portion filling into shells; top with tomatoes and lettuce.
Notes:
Set up the table for everyone to be able to assemble their own tacos. Remember to have salsa, sour cream, hot sauce, guacamole and other taco favorites for condiments.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 285; Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 238 mg; Cholesterol: 57 mg; Protein: 25 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g
PERFECT FISH TACOS
This is from Lauren Miyashiro, the former Food Director and currently a "contributing recipe" for Delish. Lauren wrote, "Love fish tacos? Well, these are the end-all be-all...
"The fish—we use cod, but any flaky variety, like tilapia, works—marinates in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin that will become your standard. (Seriously, steak or chicken marinated in this will also taste bomb.) But the real gem of this recipe is the cabbage slaw—don't skip it. It takes just a few minutes to toss together and its brightness is the perfect condiment to the spiced cod."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Yields: 4 servings
To view this online, including the rest of what Lauren wrote, go to https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a53296/easy-fish-taco-recipe/.
Ingredients
3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1-1/2 lb. cod (or other flaky white fish)
1/2 tbsp. vegetable oil
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
8 corn tortillas
1 avocado, diced
Lime wedges, for serving
Sour cream, for serving
For the corn slaw:
1/4 c. mayonnaise
Juice of 1 lime
2 tbsp. freshly chopped cilantro
1 tbsp. honey
2 c. shredded purple cabbage
1 c. corn kernels
1 jalapeño, minced
Directions
In a medium shallow bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne.
Add cod, tossing until evenly coated. Let marinate 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, make slaw: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, and honey. Stir in cabbage, corn, and jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Remove cod from marinade and season both sides of each filet with salt and pepper. Add fish flesh side-down. Cook until opaque and cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Let rest 5 minutes before flaking with a fork.
Assemble tacos: Serve fish over grilled tortillas with corn slaw and avocado. Squeeze lime juice on top and garnish with sour cream.
BLACK BEAN TACOS WITH ROASTED PEPPERS AND ONIONS
This comes from Vegetarian Times. This one begins, “For a fast meal that’s a surefire crowd-pleaser, these tacos fit the bill.” Yield: Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
Roasted Peppers and Onions
3 red bell peppers, thinly sliced (3 cups)
1 large onion, thinly sliced (1-1/2 cups)
1 Tbs. olive oil
Tacos
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup)
6 cloves garlic, minced (2 Tbs.)
2 15-oz. cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-oz. can diced organic fire-roasted tomatoes
1 Tbs. chili powder
1 Tbs. ground cumin
1/8 tsp. hot sauce, or more to taste
16 organic corn taco shells, warmed
Toppings
3 cups shredded lettuce
1 16-oz. container prepared salsa
2 large tomatoes, diced (2 cups)
2 avocados, diced (2 cups)
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup low-fat sour cream
Instructions:
To make Roasted Peppers and Onions: Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss peppers and onion with oil on large baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Roast 15 minutes, stir, and roast 15 minutes more, or until vegetables are tender and peppers are beginning to blacken. Transfer to small bowl.
Meanwhile, to make Tacos: Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until soft. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute more, or until fragrant. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, and 1 cup water. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 15 minutes, or until most of liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally. Mash beans until filling is thickened, but chunky, and most beans remain intact. Adjust seasonings, if necessary. Transfer to serving bowl. Pass taco shells, filling, Roasted Peppers and Onions, and Toppings around the table.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 482; Protein: 16 g; Total Fat: 22 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 57 g; Cholesterol: 17 mg; Sodium: 665 mg; Fiber: 12 g; Sugar: 14 g
Monday, April 13, 2026
Double-Post Monday
Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday.
Let's face it, not everyone wants to try going a day without meat. I get that. Of course, if you decide to try a meatless day other than Monday, that's cool, too.
Anywho, today's double post has some interesting recipes. Check out the first recipe - the Tater Taco Casserole from Old El Paso, the Pepper Beef Steak with Garlic-Cilantro Butter, and, for dessert, a yummy Mississippi Mud Pie. (Can you imagine telling a 5-year-old about that dessert?) Enjoy!
TATER TACO CASSEROLE
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Everyone loves tater tots and everyone loves Mexican food so why not combine the two! This Tater Taco Casserole is a dish that the whole family will love."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/tater-taco-casserole.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced finely
1 clove garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) can Old El Paso™ Chopped Green Chiles
1 (1 oz) package Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (12 oz) package frozen corn
3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
1 (28 oz) package frozen tater tots
1 (10 oz) can Old El Paso™ Red Enchilada Sauce
Toppings: olives, cilantro, sour cream, tomatoes
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375° and spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray. For extra crispy tater tots, bake tater tots for about 10 minutes while preparing the beef mixture - otherwise prepare as follows.
In a large skillet, brown the beef and the onion. Add the garlic towards the end of the browning process and cook for 1 minute. Drain.
Add the green chiles, taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, and 2 cups of the cheese. Stir together to combine. If your skillet isn’t big enough you may need to stir it together in a bowl.
Pour mixture into the prepared 9x13 pan. Arrange tater tots on top of the mixture in a single layer.
Pour the enchilada sauce on top of the casserole as evenly as you can.
Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes or until tater tots are nice and crispy. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top and place back in the oven for 2-3 minutes or until cheese has melted.
Top with olives, cilantro, sour cream, tomatoes when serving if desired.
EASY BREAKFAST BURRITOS
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "This Southwest breakfast is quick enough for busy weekends. Or, you can try our make-ahead tip to freeze and reheat for a winning grab-and-go breakfast all week long."
Prep Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-breakfast-burritos.
Ingredients
6 eggs
2 tablespoons Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles (from 4.5-oz can)
1 to 2 tablespoons milk
6 fully cooked breakfast sausage links, cut into small pieces
1 bag (1 lb 4 oz) refrigerated shredded hash brown potatoes
6 Old El Paso™ flour tortillas for burritos (from 11-oz package)
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (8 oz)
Preparation
In large bowl, beat 6 eggs, 2 tablespoons Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles and 1 to 2 tablespoons milk until well blended. In 10-inch skillet over medium heat, cook eggs, stirring occasionally, until scrambled. Stir in 6 fully cooked breakfast sausage links, cut into small pieces; heat until warm. Set aside.
Cook 1 bag (1 lb. 4 oz.) refrigerated shredded hash brown potatoes as directed on bag; set aside.
To assemble burritos, spoon line of hash browns down center of each of 6 Old El Paso™ flour tortillas for burritos. Top with 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend and the scrambled eggs.
Roll up each tortilla tightly to secure filling. Serve immediately, or freeze as directed below.
To freeze, wrap each burrito in paper towel; wrap in foil. Freeze. To reheat, remove and discard foil. Microwave each frozen paper towel-wrapped burrito on High 2 minutes 30 seconds, turning burrito over halfway through heating.
Expert Tips
Change breakfast sausage out for cooked chorizo pork sausage for a delightful Southwest kick!
Wrapping the breakfast burrito in a paper towel before the foil helps to absorb the moisture from the burrito and prevent a soggy tortilla. It’s also perfect for microwaving on the go or at work when plates are not necessarily available.
SLOW-COOKER BOLOGNESE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "Muir Glen® tomato paste provides a simple addition to this Bolognese that’s made using sausage and ground beef. Serve this slow cooked Italian sauce over pasta for dinner."
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb bulk Italian pork sausage
1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef
2 large onions, chopped (2 cups)
2 carrots, finely chopped (1 cup)
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with basil, garlic and oregano, undrained
1 can (6 oz) Muir Glen™ organic tomato paste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
16 oz uncooked spaghetti
3/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (3 oz)
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Directions
Spray 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In 12-inch skillet, cook sausage, beef, onions, carrots and garlic over medium-high heat 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sausage and beef are thoroughly cooked; drain.
In slow cooker, stir together meat mixture, tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, pepper and pepper flakes.
Cover; cook on Low heat setting 8 hours.
About 15 minutes before serving, cook and drain spaghetti as directed on package. Serve meat mixture over spaghetti. Sprinkle individual servings with cheese and basil.
PEPPER BEEF STEAK WITH GARLIC-CILANTRO BUTTER
Recipe Yield: Makes 4 servings
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pepper-beef-steak-with-garlic-cilantro-butter.
Ingredients
4 beef round tip center steaks, cut 3/4 inch thick
1/3 cup country Dijon-style mustard
2 tablespoons coarsely ground mixed peppercorns
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 fresh mild green chili peppers such as Anaheim peppers
Directions
Combine mustard, peppercorns and cumin in small bowl. Remove and reserve 1/2 for brushing. Spread remaining mustard mixture on both sides of steaks. Cover and marinate in refrigerator 1 hour.
Combine butter, cilantro and garlic in small bowl. Set aside.
Place steaks and peppers on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 8 to 9 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill 8 to 11 minutes) until steaks are medium rare (145F) doneness and peppers are blackened, turning occasionally and brushing steaks with reserved mustard mixture during the last 4 minutes. (Do not overcook.)
Remove blackened peppers; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Remove skin, stems and seeds. Chop peppers and stir 1/2 into butter mixture. Top each steak with 1 teaspoon butter mixture. Sprinkle with remaining chopped peppers. Serve with remaining butter.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 278; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 581 mg; Cholesterol: 108 mg; Protein: 37 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g
MISSISSIPPI MUD PIE
This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
1 prepared 9-inch chocolate crumb pie crust
1 cup Powdered sugar
1 cup (6 oz.) NESTLÉ ® TOLL HOUSE ® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine, cut up
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup chopped nuts, divided (optional)
2 pints coffee ice cream, softened slightly, divided
1 garnish of whipped cream (optional)
Directions
Heat sugar, morsels, butter, cream & corn syrup in small, heavy-duty saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until butter is melted & mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract. Cool until slightly warm.
Drizzle 1/3 cup chocolate sauce in bottom of crust; sprinkle with 1/4 cup nuts. Layer 1 pint ice cream, scooping thin slices with a large spoon; freeze for 1 hour. Repeat with 1/3 cup sauce, 1/4 cup nuts and remaining ice cream. Drizzle with remaining sauce; top with remaining nuts. Freeze for 2 hours or until firm. Top with whipped cream before serving.
EASY BEEF STROGANOFF
This comes from Stephanie Gallagher, who wrote for The Spruce Eats. Stephanie wrote, "This beef stroganoff recipe is a cinch to prepare because it starts with leftover cooked roast beef, pot roast, brisket, or even store-bought roast beef from the deli counter. You can even use leftover steak; you don't even have to worry about whether or not it's tough or overcooked. When using cooked beef in this way, a stroganoff brings the beef back to life. So all you have to do is make the sauce. To save time, look for presliced mushrooms if you like.
"This recipe is also easy because it incorporates a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup. If you'd like to upgrade the recipe a bit, some stores and brands, such as Trader Joe's and Pacific Natural Foods, respectively, sell versions of condensed cream of mushroom soup made with all-natural ingredients. You can even make your own condensed cream soup if you like.
"Serve this stroganoff with hot cooked egg noodles and a green salad. It tends to be a kid's kind of stroganoff because of the noodles and the creamy nature of the beef. You can also try it with rice, cauliflower rice, or mashed potatoes."
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup diced onions
8 ounces sliced mushrooms
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 tablespoons sour cream
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cooked leftover beef, such as roast beef, pot roast, beef brisket, or deli roast beef
Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Freshly chopped parsley, optional, for garnish
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
In a large (12-inch) skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and mushrooms, and cook until softened.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, and stir until the flour is well coated with the fat and drippings in the pan.
Add the broth, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Add the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, and season with salt and pepper.
Mix in the cooked beef, and cook a few minutes until heated through.
Serve the stroganoff over hot cooked egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy.
Tips
If you want to brown the mushrooms, which is a good idea because it will deepen the flavor of the stroganoff, simply cook the onions separately first.
When they are translucent, remove the onions from the skillet, and add a little more butter if the skillet is dry.
Add about half the mushrooms in a single layer. Don't crowd them, because they will steam instead of brown.
Cook, without stirring, until the mushrooms are golden brown with a slight crust on the bottom. Turn, and cook a few minutes on the other side (the second side won't take as long).
Repeat with the remaining mushrooms. Then return both the onions and all of the mushrooms to the pan and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Variations
You can use plain yogurt instead of sour cream if you like. You can also use thinned-out cream cheese, too, which will make the sauce a little thicker.
Feel free to use a little bit of dried or fresh thyme when cooking the mushrooms if you like the savory combination of thyme and mushrooms.
How to Store and Freeze Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff will keep for three to four days in the fridge if it's in an airtight sealed container. You can also freeze beef stroganoff for up to three months if it's in a sealed container, but that's best done if you leave out the egg noodles and just freeze the stroganoff itself. Noodles in a sauce tend to become mushy when defrosted. Reheat the stroganoff gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop.
Let's face it, not everyone wants to try going a day without meat. I get that. Of course, if you decide to try a meatless day other than Monday, that's cool, too.
Anywho, today's double post has some interesting recipes. Check out the first recipe - the Tater Taco Casserole from Old El Paso, the Pepper Beef Steak with Garlic-Cilantro Butter, and, for dessert, a yummy Mississippi Mud Pie. (Can you imagine telling a 5-year-old about that dessert?) Enjoy!
TATER TACO CASSEROLE
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Everyone loves tater tots and everyone loves Mexican food so why not combine the two! This Tater Taco Casserole is a dish that the whole family will love."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/tater-taco-casserole.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced finely
1 clove garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) can Old El Paso™ Chopped Green Chiles
1 (1 oz) package Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (12 oz) package frozen corn
3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
1 (28 oz) package frozen tater tots
1 (10 oz) can Old El Paso™ Red Enchilada Sauce
Toppings: olives, cilantro, sour cream, tomatoes
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375° and spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray. For extra crispy tater tots, bake tater tots for about 10 minutes while preparing the beef mixture - otherwise prepare as follows.
In a large skillet, brown the beef and the onion. Add the garlic towards the end of the browning process and cook for 1 minute. Drain.
Add the green chiles, taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, and 2 cups of the cheese. Stir together to combine. If your skillet isn’t big enough you may need to stir it together in a bowl.
Pour mixture into the prepared 9x13 pan. Arrange tater tots on top of the mixture in a single layer.
Pour the enchilada sauce on top of the casserole as evenly as you can.
Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes or until tater tots are nice and crispy. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top and place back in the oven for 2-3 minutes or until cheese has melted.
Top with olives, cilantro, sour cream, tomatoes when serving if desired.
EASY BREAKFAST BURRITOS
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "This Southwest breakfast is quick enough for busy weekends. Or, you can try our make-ahead tip to freeze and reheat for a winning grab-and-go breakfast all week long."
Prep Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-breakfast-burritos.
Ingredients
6 eggs
2 tablespoons Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles (from 4.5-oz can)
1 to 2 tablespoons milk
6 fully cooked breakfast sausage links, cut into small pieces
1 bag (1 lb 4 oz) refrigerated shredded hash brown potatoes
6 Old El Paso™ flour tortillas for burritos (from 11-oz package)
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (8 oz)
Preparation
In large bowl, beat 6 eggs, 2 tablespoons Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles and 1 to 2 tablespoons milk until well blended. In 10-inch skillet over medium heat, cook eggs, stirring occasionally, until scrambled. Stir in 6 fully cooked breakfast sausage links, cut into small pieces; heat until warm. Set aside.
Cook 1 bag (1 lb. 4 oz.) refrigerated shredded hash brown potatoes as directed on bag; set aside.
To assemble burritos, spoon line of hash browns down center of each of 6 Old El Paso™ flour tortillas for burritos. Top with 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend and the scrambled eggs.
Roll up each tortilla tightly to secure filling. Serve immediately, or freeze as directed below.
To freeze, wrap each burrito in paper towel; wrap in foil. Freeze. To reheat, remove and discard foil. Microwave each frozen paper towel-wrapped burrito on High 2 minutes 30 seconds, turning burrito over halfway through heating.
Expert Tips
Change breakfast sausage out for cooked chorizo pork sausage for a delightful Southwest kick!
Wrapping the breakfast burrito in a paper towel before the foil helps to absorb the moisture from the burrito and prevent a soggy tortilla. It’s also perfect for microwaving on the go or at work when plates are not necessarily available.
SLOW-COOKER BOLOGNESE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "Muir Glen® tomato paste provides a simple addition to this Bolognese that’s made using sausage and ground beef. Serve this slow cooked Italian sauce over pasta for dinner."
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb bulk Italian pork sausage
1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef
2 large onions, chopped (2 cups)
2 carrots, finely chopped (1 cup)
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with basil, garlic and oregano, undrained
1 can (6 oz) Muir Glen™ organic tomato paste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
16 oz uncooked spaghetti
3/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (3 oz)
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Directions
Spray 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In 12-inch skillet, cook sausage, beef, onions, carrots and garlic over medium-high heat 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sausage and beef are thoroughly cooked; drain.
In slow cooker, stir together meat mixture, tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, pepper and pepper flakes.
Cover; cook on Low heat setting 8 hours.
About 15 minutes before serving, cook and drain spaghetti as directed on package. Serve meat mixture over spaghetti. Sprinkle individual servings with cheese and basil.
PEPPER BEEF STEAK WITH GARLIC-CILANTRO BUTTER
Recipe Yield: Makes 4 servings
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pepper-beef-steak-with-garlic-cilantro-butter.
Ingredients
4 beef round tip center steaks, cut 3/4 inch thick
1/3 cup country Dijon-style mustard
2 tablespoons coarsely ground mixed peppercorns
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 fresh mild green chili peppers such as Anaheim peppers
Directions
Combine mustard, peppercorns and cumin in small bowl. Remove and reserve 1/2 for brushing. Spread remaining mustard mixture on both sides of steaks. Cover and marinate in refrigerator 1 hour.
Combine butter, cilantro and garlic in small bowl. Set aside.
Place steaks and peppers on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 8 to 9 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill 8 to 11 minutes) until steaks are medium rare (145F) doneness and peppers are blackened, turning occasionally and brushing steaks with reserved mustard mixture during the last 4 minutes. (Do not overcook.)
Remove blackened peppers; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Remove skin, stems and seeds. Chop peppers and stir 1/2 into butter mixture. Top each steak with 1 teaspoon butter mixture. Sprinkle with remaining chopped peppers. Serve with remaining butter.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 278; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 581 mg; Cholesterol: 108 mg; Protein: 37 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g
MISSISSIPPI MUD PIE
This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
1 prepared 9-inch chocolate crumb pie crust
1 cup Powdered sugar
1 cup (6 oz.) NESTLÉ ® TOLL HOUSE ® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine, cut up
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup chopped nuts, divided (optional)
2 pints coffee ice cream, softened slightly, divided
1 garnish of whipped cream (optional)
Directions
Heat sugar, morsels, butter, cream & corn syrup in small, heavy-duty saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until butter is melted & mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract. Cool until slightly warm.
Drizzle 1/3 cup chocolate sauce in bottom of crust; sprinkle with 1/4 cup nuts. Layer 1 pint ice cream, scooping thin slices with a large spoon; freeze for 1 hour. Repeat with 1/3 cup sauce, 1/4 cup nuts and remaining ice cream. Drizzle with remaining sauce; top with remaining nuts. Freeze for 2 hours or until firm. Top with whipped cream before serving.
EASY BEEF STROGANOFF
This comes from Stephanie Gallagher, who wrote for The Spruce Eats. Stephanie wrote, "This beef stroganoff recipe is a cinch to prepare because it starts with leftover cooked roast beef, pot roast, brisket, or even store-bought roast beef from the deli counter. You can even use leftover steak; you don't even have to worry about whether or not it's tough or overcooked. When using cooked beef in this way, a stroganoff brings the beef back to life. So all you have to do is make the sauce. To save time, look for presliced mushrooms if you like.
"This recipe is also easy because it incorporates a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup. If you'd like to upgrade the recipe a bit, some stores and brands, such as Trader Joe's and Pacific Natural Foods, respectively, sell versions of condensed cream of mushroom soup made with all-natural ingredients. You can even make your own condensed cream soup if you like.
"Serve this stroganoff with hot cooked egg noodles and a green salad. It tends to be a kid's kind of stroganoff because of the noodles and the creamy nature of the beef. You can also try it with rice, cauliflower rice, or mashed potatoes."
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup diced onions
8 ounces sliced mushrooms
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 tablespoons sour cream
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cooked leftover beef, such as roast beef, pot roast, beef brisket, or deli roast beef
Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Freshly chopped parsley, optional, for garnish
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
In a large (12-inch) skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and mushrooms, and cook until softened.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, and stir until the flour is well coated with the fat and drippings in the pan.
Add the broth, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Add the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, and season with salt and pepper.
Mix in the cooked beef, and cook a few minutes until heated through.
Serve the stroganoff over hot cooked egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy.
Tips
If you want to brown the mushrooms, which is a good idea because it will deepen the flavor of the stroganoff, simply cook the onions separately first.
When they are translucent, remove the onions from the skillet, and add a little more butter if the skillet is dry.
Add about half the mushrooms in a single layer. Don't crowd them, because they will steam instead of brown.
Cook, without stirring, until the mushrooms are golden brown with a slight crust on the bottom. Turn, and cook a few minutes on the other side (the second side won't take as long).
Repeat with the remaining mushrooms. Then return both the onions and all of the mushrooms to the pan and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Variations
You can use plain yogurt instead of sour cream if you like. You can also use thinned-out cream cheese, too, which will make the sauce a little thicker.
Feel free to use a little bit of dried or fresh thyme when cooking the mushrooms if you like the savory combination of thyme and mushrooms.
How to Store and Freeze Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff will keep for three to four days in the fridge if it's in an airtight sealed container. You can also freeze beef stroganoff for up to three months if it's in a sealed container, but that's best done if you leave out the egg noodles and just freeze the stroganoff itself. Noodles in a sauce tend to become mushy when defrosted. Reheat the stroganoff gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop.
Meatless Monday
It's Monday, time to get another week started. If you're like me, the weekend wasn't long enough. But there's always next weekend.
In the meantime, we still need to eat. Since it is Meatless Monday, here are six vegetarian recipes to help you out, including Apple-Chard Quiche and Beans Bourguignon. While we're at it, how about a little music to help get the week started? Just a little Monday Monday, by The Mamas & The Papas. Enjoy!
VEGAN MEATBALLS
This wonderful recipe is from Love & Lemons. If you've never checked out the site, I highly recommend that you do. Talk about great recipes...Wow! This recipe begins, "The BEST vegan meatballs! Made with mushrooms, walnuts, and black beans, they're crisp on the outside, tender in the middle, and full of savory flavor."
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Serves: 4 to 6
To view this online, go to https://www.loveandlemons.com/vegan-meatballs/.
Ingredients
16 ounces mixed cremini and shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
1 cup walnuts
1/2 cup coarsely chopped yellow onion
2 garlic cloves, grated
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for sprinkling
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds, toasted
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
1-1/2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup whole rolled oats
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
1 tablespoon tamari
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
Avocado oil, for the pan
Marinara sauce, for serving (for store bought, we love Rao's)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the mushrooms on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until slightly shriveled around the edges.
In a food processor, place the walnuts, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, fennel seed, cumin, paprika, and sage. Pulse until coarsely ground, then add the roasted mushrooms, black beans, oats, olive oil, tomato paste, flaxseed, tamari, and balsamic vinegar. Pulse until the mixture is well-combined but still has a few larger bean and mushroom chunks remaining.
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and fold in the panko. Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the mixture, then use your hands to roll it into balls.
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and coat the bottom with avocado oil. Add the vegan meatballs and cook, rotating the balls as they brown, until browned all around, about 5 minutes.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the vegan meatballs are firm and lightly crisp around the edges.
Serve with marinara.
BLACK BEAN CHILI
This is from allrecipes, and was submitted by someone name JaneD. The recipe begins, "This vegetable chili is best prepared with fresh veggies but still delicious with canned or frozen. Serve by itself or over rice."
Prep Time: 20 mins; Cook Time: 20 mins; Total Time: 40 mins; Servings: 8
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/22924/black-bean-chili/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
2 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 onion, chopped
10 fresh mushrooms, quartered
1 cup fresh corn kernels
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1-1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
Directions
Gather all ingredients.
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Sauté tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, mushrooms, corn, and jalapeño until onion is translucent, about 10 minutes. Season with chili powder, cumin, and black pepper.
Stir in black beans, broth, and salt; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Remove 1-1/2 cups chili to a food processor or blender; purée until smooth.
Stir the bean mixture back into the soup. Serve hot by itself or over rice.
SMOKY TOMATO SOUP
This yumminess is from Alexa Weibel at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Alexa wrote, "A grown-up version of grilled cheese’s best friend, this tomato soup is subtly complex thanks to the addition of ancho chile and smoked paprika, but it still has all of the nostalgic qualities of a really good tomato soup: It’s silky, robust and wonderfully tomato-y. Taking a cue from this classic tomato soup, this recipe calls for sweating the onion and garlic with a little flour to thicken the soup, which creates a velvety texture that doesn’t hide the pure tomato flavor. Simmering a whole ancho chile in the soup produces an undercurrent of heat; but if you prefer more spice, pluck off the stem and blend the chile into your finished soup rather than discarding it. Adjust the amount of cream and the level of heat as you like and the soup will taste just right to you."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 1-1/4 hours; Total Time: 1-1/2 hours; Yield: 4 to 6 servings (about 8-1/2 cups)
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1026266-smoky-tomato-soup. While you're at it, if you haven't already subscribed to The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Note: This recipe originally called for chicken or vegetable stock. Since this is a vegetarian blog, I’ve omitted the chicken part.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion (about 1 pound), minced
Salt and black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes
3 cups vegetable stock
8 fresh thyme sprigs
2 tablespoons sugar
1 ancho chile
Crema (or sour cream thinned with water), for serving
Chives (optional), for serving
grilled cheese (optional)
Preparation
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8 minutes.
Add the garlic, crushed red pepper and paprika, and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
Sprinkle the flour on top and cook, stirring constantly, until sizzling and crackling, about 2 minutes.
Add the tomatoes and their juices, squeezing the tomatoes to crush them as you add them to the pot. Stir in the stock, thyme sprigs and sugar. Drop in the ancho chile (plop!) and bring to a simmer over medium-high.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover almost all the way and simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors deepen and tomatoes break down, about 45 minutes.
Pluck out the ancho chile and thyme sprigs, then transfer the soup to a blender (in batches, if needed) and blend until creamy. (Alternatively, use an immersion blender to blend it right in the pot.) Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning if desired. If you’d like to increase the smoky flavor, you can blend in a portion of the stemmed and deseeded chile, if desired.
Transfer to bowls, top with a swirl of crema and a sprinkle of chives. Serve with grilled cheese, if desired.
BEANS BOURGUIGNON
This comes from Emily Weinberger at the Food Network. The recipe begins, "This vegan recipe is a wonderful alternative to classic beef bourguignon (and is fast, too). Dried porcinis are soaked to create a flavorful, earthy broth. Next, meaty mushrooms are browned to perfection, then added to a rich wine sauce along with carrots and the star of the show, cannellini beans, which soak up all the flavors as they simmer and naturally thicken the sauce so you can skip the usual flour. Served over herbed pasta, this dish is ideal for chilly nights when you crave a satisfying and cozy stick-to-your-ribs stew."
Active Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/beans-bourguignon-13447307.
Ingredients
1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms
1-1/2 cups boiling water
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound cremini mushrooms, quartered
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 small carrots (about 5 ounces), sliced 1/8 inch thick
1 medium onion (about 10 ounces), chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1-1/2 cups vegan dry red wine, such as cabernet sauvignon
8 ounces frozen pearl onions (about 2 cups)
Two 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely chopped, plus more for garnish, optional
12 ounces cavatappi pasta
Directions
Place the porcini mushrooms in a medium heat-safe bowl. Pour the boiling water over top and let the porcini soak until the liquid is a very dark brown, about 20 minutes. Strain the liquid into a small liquid measuring cup (you should have about 3/4 cup), then chop the porcini and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the cremini mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt and a generous amount of black pepper and stir so the cremini are in an even layer. Let the cremini cook, untouched, until starting to caramelize, about 3 minutes. Stir the cremini a few times and then continue to cook, untouched, until golden brown, about 3 minutes more. Transfer to a medium bowl with a slotted spoon and return the pot to the burner.
Add another 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to the pot along with the carrots, onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, oregano, garlic and reserved porcini and cook, stirring frequently, until the tomato paste is toasted and turns a deep maroon color, 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in the wine, bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, 3 to 4 minutes. Fold in the pearl onions, cannellini, cremini, reserved porcini water, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon and the mushrooms are very soft, 8 to 10 minutes. Fold in 1/2 cup of the parsley.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta and add it back to the pot. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 cup parsley, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Serve the beans bourguignon on top of the herbed pasta and garnish with more parsley if desired.
EASY CHICKPEA CURRY
This is from Shayma Saadat at Simply Recipes. For this recipe, Shayma wrote, "Every week, this chickpea and spinach curry takes center stage in our kitchen. As someone of Pakistani heritage, I’ve added my own twist to the classic South Asian chana masala to make it practical for weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and packed with both protein and vegetables—ideal for feeding my husband and son without juggling multiple dishes.
"The beauty of this chickpea curry lies in its simplicity and adaptability; it is perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s packed with such lovely flavors (ginger! garlic! turmeric!) and the coconut milk gives it creamy depth. Plus, it requires just one pot, making cleanup a breeze."
Makes 4 servings
To view this online, and to be able to read the rest of what Shayma wrote, go to https://www.simplyrecipes.com/easy-chickpea-curry-recipe-8788223.
Ingredients
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons grated garlic (approximately 3 to 4 garlic cloves)
2 teaspoons grated ginger (from an approximately 1-inch peeled piece of ginger)
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
2 packed cups baby spinach (about 5 ounces)
Directions
Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the grated garlic and ginger; be cautious, as the mixture will sputter. Stir constantly and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, lowering the heat slightly if needed.
Add the cayenne and turmeric and stir for 30 seconds. Slowly pour in the tomato sauce (covering the pot briefly to minimize splatters). Add the chickpeas to the pot, then stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and lower the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and cook until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly, 10 to 12 minutes.
Taste, adding more salt if needed. Add the fresh spinach, turn off the heat, and cover with the lid. After the spinach has wilted in a few minutes, stir it into the curry. Serve warm with rice, naan, or sourdough.
Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the curry thickens in the fridge, add a splash of water or coconut milk while reheating to loosen it up.
APPLE-CHARD QUICHE
This is from the October 2003 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 59. It begins, "Pairing cheese with apples becomes a gastronomic pleasure, and adding ruby chard simply embellishes the combination and amplifies the texture of this homey quiche." Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/apple-chard-quiche/.
Ingredients
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. unsalted butter
1 large Vidalia or other onion, thinly sliced
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded ruby Swiss chard
1 cup (about 2 oz.) thinly sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped apple
2 Tbs. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded Jarlsberg cheese
1/2 cup skim milk
1 9-inch deep-dish pie crust, unbaked
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Heat oil and butter in large skillet over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, and sauté onions until caramelized, about 15 minutes.
Add Swiss chard, mushrooms, salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium, and cook, stirring often, until mushrooms and chard are soft, about 7 minutes.
Combine apples, flour and nutmeg in mixing bowl, and toss to coat apples. Combine eggs, cheese and milk in separate bowl, and beat until ingredients are well blended. Fold in apple mixture.
Spoon chard mixture into pie crust. Pour egg-cheese-apple mixture over top.
Bake 35 to 45 minutes, or until cheese mixture is set and top is browned. Cool slightly before slicing, and serve.
In the meantime, we still need to eat. Since it is Meatless Monday, here are six vegetarian recipes to help you out, including Apple-Chard Quiche and Beans Bourguignon. While we're at it, how about a little music to help get the week started? Just a little Monday Monday, by The Mamas & The Papas. Enjoy!
VEGAN MEATBALLS
This wonderful recipe is from Love & Lemons. If you've never checked out the site, I highly recommend that you do. Talk about great recipes...Wow! This recipe begins, "The BEST vegan meatballs! Made with mushrooms, walnuts, and black beans, they're crisp on the outside, tender in the middle, and full of savory flavor."
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Serves: 4 to 6
To view this online, go to https://www.loveandlemons.com/vegan-meatballs/.
Ingredients
16 ounces mixed cremini and shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
1 cup walnuts
1/2 cup coarsely chopped yellow onion
2 garlic cloves, grated
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for sprinkling
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds, toasted
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
1-1/2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup whole rolled oats
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
1 tablespoon tamari
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
Avocado oil, for the pan
Marinara sauce, for serving (for store bought, we love Rao's)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the mushrooms on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until slightly shriveled around the edges.
In a food processor, place the walnuts, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, fennel seed, cumin, paprika, and sage. Pulse until coarsely ground, then add the roasted mushrooms, black beans, oats, olive oil, tomato paste, flaxseed, tamari, and balsamic vinegar. Pulse until the mixture is well-combined but still has a few larger bean and mushroom chunks remaining.
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and fold in the panko. Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the mixture, then use your hands to roll it into balls.
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and coat the bottom with avocado oil. Add the vegan meatballs and cook, rotating the balls as they brown, until browned all around, about 5 minutes.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the vegan meatballs are firm and lightly crisp around the edges.
Serve with marinara.
BLACK BEAN CHILI
This is from allrecipes, and was submitted by someone name JaneD. The recipe begins, "This vegetable chili is best prepared with fresh veggies but still delicious with canned or frozen. Serve by itself or over rice."
Prep Time: 20 mins; Cook Time: 20 mins; Total Time: 40 mins; Servings: 8
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/22924/black-bean-chili/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
2 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 onion, chopped
10 fresh mushrooms, quartered
1 cup fresh corn kernels
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1-1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
Directions
Gather all ingredients.
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Sauté tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, mushrooms, corn, and jalapeño until onion is translucent, about 10 minutes. Season with chili powder, cumin, and black pepper.
Stir in black beans, broth, and salt; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Remove 1-1/2 cups chili to a food processor or blender; purée until smooth.
Stir the bean mixture back into the soup. Serve hot by itself or over rice.
SMOKY TOMATO SOUP
This yumminess is from Alexa Weibel at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Alexa wrote, "A grown-up version of grilled cheese’s best friend, this tomato soup is subtly complex thanks to the addition of ancho chile and smoked paprika, but it still has all of the nostalgic qualities of a really good tomato soup: It’s silky, robust and wonderfully tomato-y. Taking a cue from this classic tomato soup, this recipe calls for sweating the onion and garlic with a little flour to thicken the soup, which creates a velvety texture that doesn’t hide the pure tomato flavor. Simmering a whole ancho chile in the soup produces an undercurrent of heat; but if you prefer more spice, pluck off the stem and blend the chile into your finished soup rather than discarding it. Adjust the amount of cream and the level of heat as you like and the soup will taste just right to you."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 1-1/4 hours; Total Time: 1-1/2 hours; Yield: 4 to 6 servings (about 8-1/2 cups)
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1026266-smoky-tomato-soup. While you're at it, if you haven't already subscribed to The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Note: This recipe originally called for chicken or vegetable stock. Since this is a vegetarian blog, I’ve omitted the chicken part.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion (about 1 pound), minced
Salt and black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes
3 cups vegetable stock
8 fresh thyme sprigs
2 tablespoons sugar
1 ancho chile
Crema (or sour cream thinned with water), for serving
Chives (optional), for serving
grilled cheese (optional)
Preparation
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8 minutes.
Add the garlic, crushed red pepper and paprika, and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
Sprinkle the flour on top and cook, stirring constantly, until sizzling and crackling, about 2 minutes.
Add the tomatoes and their juices, squeezing the tomatoes to crush them as you add them to the pot. Stir in the stock, thyme sprigs and sugar. Drop in the ancho chile (plop!) and bring to a simmer over medium-high.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover almost all the way and simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors deepen and tomatoes break down, about 45 minutes.
Pluck out the ancho chile and thyme sprigs, then transfer the soup to a blender (in batches, if needed) and blend until creamy. (Alternatively, use an immersion blender to blend it right in the pot.) Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning if desired. If you’d like to increase the smoky flavor, you can blend in a portion of the stemmed and deseeded chile, if desired.
Transfer to bowls, top with a swirl of crema and a sprinkle of chives. Serve with grilled cheese, if desired.
BEANS BOURGUIGNON
This comes from Emily Weinberger at the Food Network. The recipe begins, "This vegan recipe is a wonderful alternative to classic beef bourguignon (and is fast, too). Dried porcinis are soaked to create a flavorful, earthy broth. Next, meaty mushrooms are browned to perfection, then added to a rich wine sauce along with carrots and the star of the show, cannellini beans, which soak up all the flavors as they simmer and naturally thicken the sauce so you can skip the usual flour. Served over herbed pasta, this dish is ideal for chilly nights when you crave a satisfying and cozy stick-to-your-ribs stew."
Active Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/beans-bourguignon-13447307.
Ingredients
1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms
1-1/2 cups boiling water
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound cremini mushrooms, quartered
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 small carrots (about 5 ounces), sliced 1/8 inch thick
1 medium onion (about 10 ounces), chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1-1/2 cups vegan dry red wine, such as cabernet sauvignon
8 ounces frozen pearl onions (about 2 cups)
Two 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely chopped, plus more for garnish, optional
12 ounces cavatappi pasta
Directions
Place the porcini mushrooms in a medium heat-safe bowl. Pour the boiling water over top and let the porcini soak until the liquid is a very dark brown, about 20 minutes. Strain the liquid into a small liquid measuring cup (you should have about 3/4 cup), then chop the porcini and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the cremini mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt and a generous amount of black pepper and stir so the cremini are in an even layer. Let the cremini cook, untouched, until starting to caramelize, about 3 minutes. Stir the cremini a few times and then continue to cook, untouched, until golden brown, about 3 minutes more. Transfer to a medium bowl with a slotted spoon and return the pot to the burner.
Add another 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to the pot along with the carrots, onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, oregano, garlic and reserved porcini and cook, stirring frequently, until the tomato paste is toasted and turns a deep maroon color, 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in the wine, bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, 3 to 4 minutes. Fold in the pearl onions, cannellini, cremini, reserved porcini water, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon and the mushrooms are very soft, 8 to 10 minutes. Fold in 1/2 cup of the parsley.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta and add it back to the pot. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 cup parsley, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Serve the beans bourguignon on top of the herbed pasta and garnish with more parsley if desired.
EASY CHICKPEA CURRY
This is from Shayma Saadat at Simply Recipes. For this recipe, Shayma wrote, "Every week, this chickpea and spinach curry takes center stage in our kitchen. As someone of Pakistani heritage, I’ve added my own twist to the classic South Asian chana masala to make it practical for weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and packed with both protein and vegetables—ideal for feeding my husband and son without juggling multiple dishes.
"The beauty of this chickpea curry lies in its simplicity and adaptability; it is perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s packed with such lovely flavors (ginger! garlic! turmeric!) and the coconut milk gives it creamy depth. Plus, it requires just one pot, making cleanup a breeze."
Makes 4 servings
To view this online, and to be able to read the rest of what Shayma wrote, go to https://www.simplyrecipes.com/easy-chickpea-curry-recipe-8788223.
Ingredients
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons grated garlic (approximately 3 to 4 garlic cloves)
2 teaspoons grated ginger (from an approximately 1-inch peeled piece of ginger)
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
2 packed cups baby spinach (about 5 ounces)
Directions
Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the grated garlic and ginger; be cautious, as the mixture will sputter. Stir constantly and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, lowering the heat slightly if needed.
Add the cayenne and turmeric and stir for 30 seconds. Slowly pour in the tomato sauce (covering the pot briefly to minimize splatters). Add the chickpeas to the pot, then stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and lower the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and cook until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly, 10 to 12 minutes.
Taste, adding more salt if needed. Add the fresh spinach, turn off the heat, and cover with the lid. After the spinach has wilted in a few minutes, stir it into the curry. Serve warm with rice, naan, or sourdough.
Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the curry thickens in the fridge, add a splash of water or coconut milk while reheating to loosen it up.
APPLE-CHARD QUICHE
This is from the October 2003 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 59. It begins, "Pairing cheese with apples becomes a gastronomic pleasure, and adding ruby chard simply embellishes the combination and amplifies the texture of this homey quiche." Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/apple-chard-quiche/.
Ingredients
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. unsalted butter
1 large Vidalia or other onion, thinly sliced
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded ruby Swiss chard
1 cup (about 2 oz.) thinly sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped apple
2 Tbs. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded Jarlsberg cheese
1/2 cup skim milk
1 9-inch deep-dish pie crust, unbaked
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Heat oil and butter in large skillet over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, and sauté onions until caramelized, about 15 minutes.
Add Swiss chard, mushrooms, salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium, and cook, stirring often, until mushrooms and chard are soft, about 7 minutes.
Combine apples, flour and nutmeg in mixing bowl, and toss to coat apples. Combine eggs, cheese and milk in separate bowl, and beat until ingredients are well blended. Fold in apple mixture.
Spoon chard mixture into pie crust. Pour egg-cheese-apple mixture over top.
Bake 35 to 45 minutes, or until cheese mixture is set and top is browned. Cool slightly before slicing, and serve.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)