It's finally Friday. Yay! Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Goulash and Twice Baked Potatoes. Enjoy!
HAWAIIAN MACARONI SALAD
This yummy macaroni salad is from Christin Mahrlig on her very cool site, Spicy Southern Kitchen. If you’ve never heard of her site (or you have, but never checked it out), I suggest you check it out ASAP. Go ahead, I’ll wait…(Tap, tap, tap…).
Anyway, the recipe begins, “Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is so fabulously creamy and simple. This mayonnaise-based pasta salad makes a wonderful side for summer bbqs and picnics.”
Prep Time: 10 mins; Cook Time: 10 mins; Total Time: 20 mins; Servings: 10
To view this online, go to https://spicysouthernkitchen.com/hawaiian-macaroni-salad/.
Ingredients
16 ounces elbow pasta
1/4 cup grated onion
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 cups mayonnaise
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon sugar
2 shredded carrots
salt and pepper
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoons kosher salt. Cook pasta according to package directions.
Place onion in a large bowl. When pasta is done, drain it well and add it to the bowl. Add garlic powder and apple cider vinegar and stir. Let sit 10 minutes.
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar.
Set aside about 1/2 a cup and add the rest to the macaroni along with carrots. Stir to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Cover and refrigerate both the bowl of macaroni salad and the reserved 1/2 a cup of mayonnaise mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir in the reserved mayonnaise mixture just before serving.
Recipe Notes
Be sure not to overcook your pasta or it will have a mushy texture.
If you to dress it up some, add diced ham or chopped pineapple.
GOULASH
This is from Lidey Heuck in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this yummy recipe, Lidey wrote, "Hungarian goulash, a stew of paprika-spiced braised meat and vegetables, likely arrived in the United States with a wave of immigrants in the late 1800s. The dish began a game of telephone, slowly evolving into something new entirely. While American-style goulash may not bear much resemblance to its Hungarian namesake, the hearty one-pot dish has endured as an easy and comforting family weeknight dinner. Made with ground beef, bell peppers, diced tomatoes and macaroni, it falls somewhere between a beef chili and a meaty pasta. A sprinkle of Cheddar, stirred in just before serving, thickens the sauce and adds richness. Serve the goulash on its own or with a green vegetable and cornbread on the side."
Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings
To view this online, go to .
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 green or red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 5 cloves)
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1-1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)
Black pepper
1 pound ground beef (at least 85-percent lean)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
3 cups low-sodium beef broth, plus more as needed
1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1-1/4 cups uncooked macaroni
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded sharp Cheddar
Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Preparation
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bell pepper and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the garlic, thyme, paprika, oregano, salt and pepper and cook for 30 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook, stirring often and breaking up the meat with a spoon, until no longer pink, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the broth, crushed and diced tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce; bring to a boil. Stir in the macaroni, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pot, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid in the pan has thickened considerably, 18 to 20 minutes.
Remove from the heat and stir in the Cheddar. Taste for seasonings and add salt and pepper, if needed. Serve in bowls, topped with fresh parsley. (The goulash will continue to thicken as it sits. If desired, add a splash of beef broth when reheating.)
ALMOST WHITE CASTLE HAMBURGERS
This comes from Chef Doozer on the Genius Kitchen site. Time: 20 minutes; Serves: 12
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1-1/2 lbs ground chuck
1 (4 tablespoon) envelope onion soup mix
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons water
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
24 small square dinner rolls
American cheese (optional)
pickle (optional)
Sauce
1/2 cup mustard
1/2 cup ketchup
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Hamburgers: Mix first 6 ingredients and press into an ungreased 10 by 15 inch jelly roll pan.
Prick with a fork.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Drain off juices (if there's a lot of excess).
Cool.
Cut into 24 squares.
Place squares on dinner rolls.
Combine mustard and ketchup and spread on rolls.
Top with pickles and cheese, if desired.
This makes 12 servings of 2 hamburgers each.
BEEF NOODLE SKILLET
This is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.
Active Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/beef-noodle-skillet-8053162.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons salted butter
1 yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground chuck
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
12 ounces egg noodles
2-1/2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon grainy mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
A few dashes Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Directions
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the ground chuck and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook the meat, crumbling as you go, until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook for about 30 seconds.
Add the noodles, broth, 1 cup hot water, the mustard, paprika and Worcestershire sauce. Give a big stir and bring to a simmer. Cover and allow everything to simmer, stirring occasionally and adding up to 1/2 cup more water if necessary, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 12 minutes. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream and cook for 1 additional minute or until the pasta is tender.
Remove from the heat. Sprinkle over the chives and serve directly from the pan.
TWICE-BAKED POTATOES
This yummy recipes is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes; Yield: 12 to 16 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/twice-baked-potatoes-recipe-1925596.
Ingredients
8 baking potatoes, washed
3 tablespoons canola oil
2 sticks salted butter
1 cup bacon bits (fry your own!)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup Cheddar or Jack cheese (or a mix of both), plus more for topping
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
3 green onions, sliced
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Rub them with the canola oil and bake for 1 hour, making sure they're sufficiently cooked through.
Slice the butter into pats. Place in a large mixing bowl and add the bacon bits and sour cream. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Lower the heat to 350 degrees F.
With a sharp knife, cut each potato in half lengthwise. Scrape out the insides into the mixing bowl, being careful not to tear the shell. Leave a small rim of potato intact for support. Lay the hollowed out potato shells on a baking sheet.
Smash the potatoes into the butter, bacon and sour cream. Add the cheese, milk, seasoned salt, green onions and black pepper to taste and mix together well. (IMPORTANT: If you plan to freeze the twice-baked potatoes, do NOT add the green onions.)
Fill the potato shells with the filling. I like to fill the shells so they look abundant and heaping. Top each potato with a little more grated cheese and pop 'em in the oven until the potato is warmed through, 15 to 20 minutes.
ULTIMATE STUFFED ACORN SQUASH
This comes from Vegetarian Times (November 2013, page 53), and begins, "The Native American “three sisters”—corn, beans, and squash—come together in these individual holiday entrées stuffed with corn pudding and black beans." Makes 8 servings. Great for holiday meals
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/ultimate-stuffed-acorn-squash/.
Ingredients
3 Tbs. olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced (4 tsp.), divided
4 acorn squash, halved and seeded
1/2 tsp. ancho chile powder, plus more for sprinkling squash
1/2 tsp. ground coriander, plus more for sprinkling squash
3 cups fresh or frozen organic corn kernels, divided
2/3 cup yellow cornmeal
1 tsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper, optional
1 cup low-fat buttermilk
2 large eggs
4 Tbs. melted butter or olive oil
3 oz. soft goat cheese or low-fat cream cheese (1/3 cup)
3 oz. grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (3/4 cup), plus more for sprinkling tops, optional
1 1/2 cups cooked black beans or 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 large poblano chile or 1 small red bell pepper, diced (1 cup)
8 green onions, white and green parts thinly sliced (1 cup), plus more for sprinkling tops
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine oil and 2 tsp. minced garlic in small bowl. Brush squash halves with garlic oil, and sprinkle lightly with ancho chile powder and coriander. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and place on large baking sheet.
Pulse 2 cups corn kernels in food processor until finely chopped and milky. Set aside.
Whisk 1/2 tsp. each coriander and ancho chile powder into cornmeal, along with sugar, baking soda, salt, and cayenne (if using) in medium bowl. Set aside.
Whisk together buttermilk and eggs in separate bowl. Whisk in butter, then puréed corn, remaining 1 cup corn kernels, goat cheese, Cheddar, and remaining 2 tsp. garlic. Fold in cornmeal mixture with spatula, then fold in black beans, poblano chile, and green onions.
Divide filling among squash halves. Sprinkle each squash with extra Cheddar (if using).
Bake squash halves 30 to 45 minutes, or until squash are tender and filling is set. Sprinkle with green onions. Squash can be prepared 24 hours ahead, then reheated 20 minutes at 325°F.
Friday, September 29, 2023
Thursday, September 28, 2023
Breakfast
When I was a kid, my mom had definite rules about meals. Maybe rules might not be quite right. But she did have ideas about what to eat when, where to eat, and, finally, no television during meals.
A little clarification here: The first part (what to eat when) meant that one did not eat breakfast foods at dinner time, dinner left-overs (whether meatloaf, spaghetti, whatever) could not be eaten for breakfast, etc. The second part - where to eat - meant eating at the table, whether in the kitchen or dining room, along with any family members who were eating. The no t.v. part is pretty self-explanatory.
After my folks split up, and I'd gotten married and moved out, things were a little different. I stopped by one evening for some reason or another, only to find Mom and my sister sitting on the floor in the living room, maybe 20 feet away from the dining room table, watching Star Trek (a show Mom had previously stated she didn't like) on the television while eating dinner. You could have knocked me over with a feather. They were eating something appropriately dinner-ish.
Fast forward to now. Any one of my (now adult) offspring can think of at least one dinner when they ate cereal, an omelet, or some other breakfast food for dinner. There's really nothing wrong with that. (There's also nothing wrong with having pie and coffee for breakfast, something I tend to do after a major holiday.)
This long intro is to tell you that today's post deals with breakfast. Check out the Parisian-style Sweet Crêpes, the Ham and Pepper Frittata, and the other yummy breakfast recipes. Enjoy!
EGG WHITE FRITTATA WITH CHEDDAR AND VEGGIES
This is from WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers). It begins, "Sticking to just egg whites in a frittata lets you save room all the flavorful, cheesy goodness on top here. Plus, it had all that filling protein you'd expect in an egg-based main dish so that you feel satisfied. Use this versatile recipe as a jumping-off point for many variations. Other fillings to try: sliced button mushrooms, grated summer squash, diced tomatoes, and flavorful minced shallots. Frittatas are a welcome starring attraction whether it's brunch, lunch, or dinner and leftovers are a gift. Wrap up a wedge in a lettuce leaf for a low-carb lunch or reheat it in the microwave and roll it up in a tortilla for a quick and portable breakfast on the go."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4; Serving Size: 1 wedge; Difficulty: Easy; 8 points
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1-1/2 cup egg whites (about 8 large eggs)
1/2 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tsp olive oil
2 bell peppers, medium, any color, diced
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
8 oz (about 1 cup) reduced fat cheddar cheese, shredded
2 medium scallions, sliced on diagonal
Directions
Whisk together egg whites, salt, and pepper in large bowl until frothy.
Heat oil in 10-inch heavy ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add egg whites and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to set, about 2 minutes. Reduce heat and cook, without stirring, until eggs are almost set, about 6 minutes longer.
Meanwhile, preheat broiler.
Sprinkle Cheddar over frittata. Broil 5 inches from heat until cheese is melted and eggs are set, 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle with scallions. Cut into 4 wedges.
Notes
If you have leftovers, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 3 days. A wedge of this tasty frittata makes an excellent sandwich filling.
HAM AND PEPPER FRITTATA
Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings, Serving size: 1/4 of recipe
Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan
Book Title: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/ham-and-pepper-frittata.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or canola oil
1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup diced, lean, reduced-sodium ham
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
2 cups fat-free egg substitute
1 cup shredded, reduced-fat, white Cheddar or Swiss cheese
Directions
Coat a large ovenproof skillet with the olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the peppers, ham, parsley, and black pepper and saute for several minutes, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the ham is beginning to brown. Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom of the skillet.
Pour the egg substitute over the skillet mixture and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook without stirring for about 6 minutes, until the eggs are almost set (the edges will be cooked but the top will still be runny).
Remove the lid from the skillet and wrap the handle in aluminum foil (to prevent it from becoming damaged under the broiler). Place the skillet under a preheated broiler and broil for a couple of minutes, until the eggs are set but not dry. Sprinkle the cheese over the top and broil for another minute to melt the cheese. Cut the frittata into 4 wedges and serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 222; Fat: 8.3 g; Sodium: 690 mg; Cholesterol: 32 mg; Protein: 28 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Lean Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat
PARISIAN-STYLE SWEET CREPES
This comes from the September 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 37. It begins, "Cafés and brasseries in the French capital sell passersby sweet crêpes slathered in butter, jam, chestnut purée, and (VT favorite) Nutella. The experience iseasy to re-create at home for breakfast, Sunday supper, or a snack."
Makes 8 crêpes
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/parisian-style-sweet-crepes/.
Ingredients
Crêpes
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup low-fat milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Fillings (optional)
Nutella
Jam
Butter
Chestnut Purée
Preparation
Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in bowl. Whisk in egg; mixture will be shaggy. Whisk in milk 1/4 cup at a time. Whisk in vanilla. Cover, and chill 30 minutes, or overnight.
Whisk 1/4 to 1/2 cup water into batter to thin. Lightly grease 9-inch nonstick skillet with canola oil. Heat skillet over medium-high heat.
Pour 1/4 cup batter into hot skillet, tilting pan to swirl batter so it coats bottom of pan. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, or until edges begin to brown and center is dry. Flip; cook 30 seconds to 1 minute more.
Transfer crêpe to plate, and repeat with remaining batter. To serve crêpes: Reheat 1 minute in lightly greased skillet. Spread with desired fillings, fold into quarters, and serve.
CHALLAH FRENCH TOAST
This yumminess is from Ina Garten on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 10 minutes, Inactive Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 12 minutes; Total Time: 27 minutes; Level: Easy; Yield: 8 large slices
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
6 extra-large eggs
1-1/2 cups half-and-half or milk
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon good honey
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 large loaf challah or brioche bread
Unsalted butter
Vegetable oil
To serve:
Pure maple syrup
Good raspberry preserves (optional)
Sifted confectioners' sugar (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.
In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, orange zest, vanilla, honey, and salt. Slice the challah in 3/4-inch thick slices. Soak as many slices in the egg mixture as possible for 5 minutes, turning once.
Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil in a very large saute pan over medium heat. Add the soaked bread and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned. Place the cooked French toast on a sheet pan and keep it warm in the oven. Fry the remaining soaked bread slices, adding butter and oil as needed, until it's all cooked. Serve hot with maple syrup, raspberry preserves, and/or confectioners' sugar.
SALSA VERDE SCRAMBLED EGG TACOS
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Enjoy your scrambled eggs in a mini soft tortilla bowl with these delicious breakfast tacos, perfect for kids and adults! They’re topped with shredded cheese, fresh pico de gallo, avocado and Old El Paso™ Creamy Salsa Verde sauce."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 6 servings
View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/salsa-verde-scrambled-egg-tacos.
Ingredients
6 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter
1 package (12 count) Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package
1/2 cup Old El Paso™ shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend
1/2 cup pico de gallo
1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled, diced
1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Creamy Salsa Verde sauce
Preparation
In large bowl, beat eggs with whisk. Add milk and salt; beat well.
In 10-inch nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add egg mixture; cook 3 to 5 minutes, scraping cooked eggs up from bottom of skillet occasionally, until mixture is firm but still moist.
Divide eggs evenly among warm tortilla bowls. Top with cheese, pico de gallo and avocado; drizzle with sauce.
Expert Tips
Try chopped tomatoes in place of pico de gallo.
Kids love to help in the kitchen. After filling tortillas with eggs, let the kids top with their favorite cheese and fresh toppings!
Add cooked breakfast sausage to tacos for a flavor twist.
PIRATE EGGS
When my sister and I were kids, my mother used to fix this for us on a regular basis, except that she called them Gypsy Eggs. Once my brother came along, though, they became Pirate Eggs. The name stuck. Most people from the Northeastern U.S. tend to call them Eggs-in-a-Hole or some variation of that. But whatever you call them, they're good.
The instructions are for one person. Adjust for the number of people you're feeding.
Ingredients
1-2 eggs
1-2 pieces of bread
margarine for the pan
Directions
Melt the margarine in the pan over medium heat. Take the bread and cut a round hole in the middle. Place bread in pan, then crack the egg and dump onto the bread so that the yolk is in the hold. If you prefer non-runny yolks (my preference), crack the yolk with the corner of a spatula. Cook on the first side for several minutes, then flip over and cook the other side. You can flip it several times until the egg looks cooked. Enjoy!
A little clarification here: The first part (what to eat when) meant that one did not eat breakfast foods at dinner time, dinner left-overs (whether meatloaf, spaghetti, whatever) could not be eaten for breakfast, etc. The second part - where to eat - meant eating at the table, whether in the kitchen or dining room, along with any family members who were eating. The no t.v. part is pretty self-explanatory.
After my folks split up, and I'd gotten married and moved out, things were a little different. I stopped by one evening for some reason or another, only to find Mom and my sister sitting on the floor in the living room, maybe 20 feet away from the dining room table, watching Star Trek (a show Mom had previously stated she didn't like) on the television while eating dinner. You could have knocked me over with a feather. They were eating something appropriately dinner-ish.
Fast forward to now. Any one of my (now adult) offspring can think of at least one dinner when they ate cereal, an omelet, or some other breakfast food for dinner. There's really nothing wrong with that. (There's also nothing wrong with having pie and coffee for breakfast, something I tend to do after a major holiday.)
This long intro is to tell you that today's post deals with breakfast. Check out the Parisian-style Sweet Crêpes, the Ham and Pepper Frittata, and the other yummy breakfast recipes. Enjoy!
EGG WHITE FRITTATA WITH CHEDDAR AND VEGGIES
This is from WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers). It begins, "Sticking to just egg whites in a frittata lets you save room all the flavorful, cheesy goodness on top here. Plus, it had all that filling protein you'd expect in an egg-based main dish so that you feel satisfied. Use this versatile recipe as a jumping-off point for many variations. Other fillings to try: sliced button mushrooms, grated summer squash, diced tomatoes, and flavorful minced shallots. Frittatas are a welcome starring attraction whether it's brunch, lunch, or dinner and leftovers are a gift. Wrap up a wedge in a lettuce leaf for a low-carb lunch or reheat it in the microwave and roll it up in a tortilla for a quick and portable breakfast on the go."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4; Serving Size: 1 wedge; Difficulty: Easy; 8 points
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1-1/2 cup egg whites (about 8 large eggs)
1/2 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tsp olive oil
2 bell peppers, medium, any color, diced
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
8 oz (about 1 cup) reduced fat cheddar cheese, shredded
2 medium scallions, sliced on diagonal
Directions
Whisk together egg whites, salt, and pepper in large bowl until frothy.
Heat oil in 10-inch heavy ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add egg whites and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to set, about 2 minutes. Reduce heat and cook, without stirring, until eggs are almost set, about 6 minutes longer.
Meanwhile, preheat broiler.
Sprinkle Cheddar over frittata. Broil 5 inches from heat until cheese is melted and eggs are set, 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle with scallions. Cut into 4 wedges.
Notes
If you have leftovers, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 3 days. A wedge of this tasty frittata makes an excellent sandwich filling.
HAM AND PEPPER FRITTATA
Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings, Serving size: 1/4 of recipe
Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan
Book Title: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/ham-and-pepper-frittata.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or canola oil
1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup diced, lean, reduced-sodium ham
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
2 cups fat-free egg substitute
1 cup shredded, reduced-fat, white Cheddar or Swiss cheese
Directions
Coat a large ovenproof skillet with the olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the peppers, ham, parsley, and black pepper and saute for several minutes, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the ham is beginning to brown. Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom of the skillet.
Pour the egg substitute over the skillet mixture and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook without stirring for about 6 minutes, until the eggs are almost set (the edges will be cooked but the top will still be runny).
Remove the lid from the skillet and wrap the handle in aluminum foil (to prevent it from becoming damaged under the broiler). Place the skillet under a preheated broiler and broil for a couple of minutes, until the eggs are set but not dry. Sprinkle the cheese over the top and broil for another minute to melt the cheese. Cut the frittata into 4 wedges and serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 222; Fat: 8.3 g; Sodium: 690 mg; Cholesterol: 32 mg; Protein: 28 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Lean Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat
PARISIAN-STYLE SWEET CREPES
This comes from the September 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 37. It begins, "Cafés and brasseries in the French capital sell passersby sweet crêpes slathered in butter, jam, chestnut purée, and (VT favorite) Nutella. The experience iseasy to re-create at home for breakfast, Sunday supper, or a snack."
Makes 8 crêpes
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/parisian-style-sweet-crepes/.
Ingredients
Crêpes
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup low-fat milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Fillings (optional)
Nutella
Jam
Butter
Chestnut Purée
Preparation
Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in bowl. Whisk in egg; mixture will be shaggy. Whisk in milk 1/4 cup at a time. Whisk in vanilla. Cover, and chill 30 minutes, or overnight.
Whisk 1/4 to 1/2 cup water into batter to thin. Lightly grease 9-inch nonstick skillet with canola oil. Heat skillet over medium-high heat.
Pour 1/4 cup batter into hot skillet, tilting pan to swirl batter so it coats bottom of pan. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, or until edges begin to brown and center is dry. Flip; cook 30 seconds to 1 minute more.
Transfer crêpe to plate, and repeat with remaining batter. To serve crêpes: Reheat 1 minute in lightly greased skillet. Spread with desired fillings, fold into quarters, and serve.
CHALLAH FRENCH TOAST
This yumminess is from Ina Garten on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 10 minutes, Inactive Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 12 minutes; Total Time: 27 minutes; Level: Easy; Yield: 8 large slices
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
6 extra-large eggs
1-1/2 cups half-and-half or milk
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon good honey
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 large loaf challah or brioche bread
Unsalted butter
Vegetable oil
To serve:
Pure maple syrup
Good raspberry preserves (optional)
Sifted confectioners' sugar (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.
In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, orange zest, vanilla, honey, and salt. Slice the challah in 3/4-inch thick slices. Soak as many slices in the egg mixture as possible for 5 minutes, turning once.
Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil in a very large saute pan over medium heat. Add the soaked bread and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned. Place the cooked French toast on a sheet pan and keep it warm in the oven. Fry the remaining soaked bread slices, adding butter and oil as needed, until it's all cooked. Serve hot with maple syrup, raspberry preserves, and/or confectioners' sugar.
SALSA VERDE SCRAMBLED EGG TACOS
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Enjoy your scrambled eggs in a mini soft tortilla bowl with these delicious breakfast tacos, perfect for kids and adults! They’re topped with shredded cheese, fresh pico de gallo, avocado and Old El Paso™ Creamy Salsa Verde sauce."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 6 servings
View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/salsa-verde-scrambled-egg-tacos.
Ingredients
6 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter
1 package (12 count) Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package
1/2 cup Old El Paso™ shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend
1/2 cup pico de gallo
1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled, diced
1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Creamy Salsa Verde sauce
Preparation
In large bowl, beat eggs with whisk. Add milk and salt; beat well.
In 10-inch nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add egg mixture; cook 3 to 5 minutes, scraping cooked eggs up from bottom of skillet occasionally, until mixture is firm but still moist.
Divide eggs evenly among warm tortilla bowls. Top with cheese, pico de gallo and avocado; drizzle with sauce.
Expert Tips
Try chopped tomatoes in place of pico de gallo.
Kids love to help in the kitchen. After filling tortillas with eggs, let the kids top with their favorite cheese and fresh toppings!
Add cooked breakfast sausage to tacos for a flavor twist.
PIRATE EGGS
When my sister and I were kids, my mother used to fix this for us on a regular basis, except that she called them Gypsy Eggs. Once my brother came along, though, they became Pirate Eggs. The name stuck. Most people from the Northeastern U.S. tend to call them Eggs-in-a-Hole or some variation of that. But whatever you call them, they're good.
The instructions are for one person. Adjust for the number of people you're feeding.
Ingredients
1-2 eggs
1-2 pieces of bread
margarine for the pan
Directions
Melt the margarine in the pan over medium heat. Take the bread and cut a round hole in the middle. Place bread in pan, then crack the egg and dump onto the bread so that the yolk is in the hold. If you prefer non-runny yolks (my preference), crack the yolk with the corner of a spatula. Cook on the first side for several minutes, then flip over and cook the other side. You can flip it several times until the egg looks cooked. Enjoy!
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Turkey
Many of us in the U.S. tend to reserve Turkey for the holidays, especially Thanksgiving. So many of us of a certain age tend to think of a Norman Rockwell-style Thanksgiving, where the main dish is turkey. (Freedom from Want, otherwise known as The Thanksgiving Picture or I'll Be Home for Christmas.)
But realistically, turkey can ben an anytime meal. Check out these six turkey recipes, including Turkey Chili, Colorful Turkey Stuffed Peppers, and Turkey Meatloaf. Enjoy!
SWEET POTATO AND MUSTARD TURKEY BURGERS
This is from Taste for Life, and begins, “These burgers are moist and juicy and have a savory flavor that comes from a secret ingredient: A hefty amount of mustard. Half a cup may seem like a lot of mustard, but it’s what makes these burgers outstanding. Using grated sweet potato instead of traditional flour or breadcrumbs adds extra fiber and nutrients.”
Prep Time: 40 min prep time; Number of Servings: Makes 4 to 6 burgers
Recipe Source: The Living Kitchen by Tamara Green, BA, CNP and Sarah Grossman, BA, CNP ($28, Appetite, 2018)
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1/2 cup grated yellow onion
1 cup grated peeled sweet potato
1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup spinach, finely chopped
1/2 cup gluten-free whole-grain mustard
1/2 tsp sea salt
Pinch of black pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Use the grating attachment on your food processor and grate onion and sweet potato. You can also do this by hand with a box grater.
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until everything is well combined.
Measure 1/4 to 1/2 cup of burger meat and shape into a patty. Place on baking sheet and repeat.
Bake in oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until top begins to get slightly golden. You can flip burgers halfway through cooking time if you want even caramelization on both sides.
These burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 days. You can also make a big batch and keep them in the freezer for 3 to 4 months for a quick meal option.
TURKEY MEATLOAF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking email. Sam wrote, “This is a recipe that helps explain the Twitter-era term ‘humblebrag.’ I made it for the celebrated writer and filmmaker Nora Ephron after a different recipe resulted in a disaster and I had to discard the result with only a few hours before my dinner with -- did I mention? -- Nora Ephron. It derives from a meatball dish once cooked by the chef Mark Ladner at the restaurant Lupa in Manhattan, and published as a recipe in Details magazine in the early years of the century. I scaled it up over the years, increasing some spices here and there, lessening others, until I had what I thought to be a pretty terrific meatloaf. But don't take my word for it. ‘This is remarkable,’ Ms. Ephron told me. I'm bragging about it still.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
This was featured in “Potlucky” and can be viewed online here.
Note: This recipe calls for 1 cup red wine. If, like me, you don’t keep wine or any alcohol around the house, I imagine you could replace this with 1 cup water. Yes, this will affect the taste a little, but it’s do-able.
Ingredients
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh bread crumbs of any provenance
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound sweet Italian pork sausage, casing removed, crumbled
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces bacon, chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, seeds removed
1 cup red wine
1/4 bunch mint
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Combine 2/3 of the garlic, the rosemary, pepper flakes, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix. Add the turkey and sausage and mix once more to combine; don’t overmix. Transfer onto a board and shape into a fine meatloaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Place in a baking pan with high sides (a 9 x12 pan with 2-inch sides works well), drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 325 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, fry the bacon in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until it starts to curl and its fat is rendered. Add the onions and remaining garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and wine and bring to a boil.
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf, cover tightly with foil and bake until a meat thermometer inserted at the center reads 150 degrees, 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the meatloaf to a platter and let stand, tented with foil, for 10 minutes. Cut into thick slices, spoon tomato sauce over the top and scatter with torn mint leaves.
TURKEY LENTIL SLOPPY JOES WITH QUICK CABBAGE SLAW
This is originally from Oven to Table, by Jan Scott, and reprinted on Taste for Life. Prep Time: 55 minutes; Makes 8 in regular-sized buns, or 16 in mini-slider buns.
You can view this online at https://tasteforlife.com/healthy-recipes/appetizers/turkey-lentil-sloppy-joes-with-quick-cabbage-slaw.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joes
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
Kosher salt
2 cloves garlic, grated or pressed
1 lb ground turkey
2 cups cooked green or brown lentils (or 1 19-oz can, rinsed and drained)
3 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp prepared yellow mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp hot sauce
For the Slaw
4 cups chopped red cabbage (about 1 small cabbage)
1 large carrot, peeled
3 green onions, ends trimmed and thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tsp liquid honey
1 tsp celery seed
Kosher salt
For Serving
8 whole-wheat dinner rolls or hamburger buns (split in half and toasted)*
Directions
In a large cast iron, stainless steel, or nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, season with a pinch of salt and sauté until onions are soft and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Crumble ground turkey into skillet and stir to combine, cooking until browned. Add lentils, chili powder, oregano, cumin, pepper, and tomato paste and stir, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes to infuse turkey and lentils with spices.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, for 20 minutes. Check seasonings and add more salt if needed.
While meat mixture is cooking, make slaw. Place cabbage in a medium bowl and, using a vegetable peeler, shave carrot into ribbons. Add carrot and green onions to bowl and toss with clean hands to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, and celery seed. Pour over cabbage and toss to combine. Finish with a pinch of salt.
Spoon Sloppy Joes onto split and toasted rolls. Top with slaw and serve at once.
Notes
For more of a bite-size snack, turn these into sliders. Just replace the 8 hamburger buns with approximately 16 mini-slider buns.
You can easily double or triple this recipe for a large party. The slaw adds some crunch to this dish. Its simplicity lends itself well to customization, so feel free to play around with vegetables if you like, maybe adding some grated apple or green cabbage to the mix.
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
TURKEY CHILI
This is from American Heart Association, and begins, "Warm up on a cool evening with this classic chili dish. Our version is full of fiber, low in sodium, and extraordinarily delicious." Makes 6 servings; serving size: 1 1/3 cups
To view this online, go to https://recipes.heart.org/en/recipes/turkey-chili.
Ingredients
1 1/2 tablespoons canola or corn oil
1 medium or large onion, chopped
20 ounces ground skinless turkey breast
2 large garlic cloves, minced
OR
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 15.5-ounce can no-salt-added pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 15.5-ounce can no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained
1 14.5-ounce can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
1 3/4 cups fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen whole-kernel corn
1 6-ounce can no-salt-added tomato paste
4 medium green onions (green part only), sliced
Directions
In a Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the chopped onion for 3 minutes, or until soft, stirring occasionally.
Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the turkey. Cook for 5 minutes, or until browned, stirring frequently to turn and break up the turkey.
Stir in the garlic, chili powder, pepper, and cumin. Stir in the remaining ingredients except the green onions. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through, stirring frequently. Just before serving, sprinkle with the green onions.
FAJITA TURKEY BURGER
Makes 5 servings
See the recipe with photo here: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1326.shtml
Ingredients
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground pepper, if desired
1 (16-ounce) package Jennie-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1/4 cup salsa, drained
3/4 cup cilantro, divided
2 onions, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
Wholly Guacamole classic or spicy dip, if desired
Wholly Guacamole salsa, if desired
5 reduced-calorie hamburger buns, split
1/3 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese
Directions
In small bowl, combine cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, red pepper flakes, paprika and salt and pepper, if desired.
Mix ground turkey, half of spice mixture, drained salsa, and 1/2 cup cilantro; form into 5 (1/2-inch thick) patties. Lightly spray patties with cooking spray. Place patties in skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 17 to 19 minutes, turning occasionally.
Always cook to well done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Meanwhile, coat large skillet with cooking spray. Cook onions, bell peppers and remaining spice mixture over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining 1/4 cup cilantro.
To assemble burgers, spread guacamole and salsa, if desired, on buns. Place burgers, cheese and vegetable mixture on buns.
Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 260; Protein: 29 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 410 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g
But realistically, turkey can ben an anytime meal. Check out these six turkey recipes, including Turkey Chili, Colorful Turkey Stuffed Peppers, and Turkey Meatloaf. Enjoy!
SWEET POTATO AND MUSTARD TURKEY BURGERS
This is from Taste for Life, and begins, “These burgers are moist and juicy and have a savory flavor that comes from a secret ingredient: A hefty amount of mustard. Half a cup may seem like a lot of mustard, but it’s what makes these burgers outstanding. Using grated sweet potato instead of traditional flour or breadcrumbs adds extra fiber and nutrients.”
Prep Time: 40 min prep time; Number of Servings: Makes 4 to 6 burgers
Recipe Source: The Living Kitchen by Tamara Green, BA, CNP and Sarah Grossman, BA, CNP ($28, Appetite, 2018)
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1/2 cup grated yellow onion
1 cup grated peeled sweet potato
1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup spinach, finely chopped
1/2 cup gluten-free whole-grain mustard
1/2 tsp sea salt
Pinch of black pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Use the grating attachment on your food processor and grate onion and sweet potato. You can also do this by hand with a box grater.
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until everything is well combined.
Measure 1/4 to 1/2 cup of burger meat and shape into a patty. Place on baking sheet and repeat.
Bake in oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until top begins to get slightly golden. You can flip burgers halfway through cooking time if you want even caramelization on both sides.
These burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 days. You can also make a big batch and keep them in the freezer for 3 to 4 months for a quick meal option.
TURKEY MEATLOAF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking email. Sam wrote, “This is a recipe that helps explain the Twitter-era term ‘humblebrag.’ I made it for the celebrated writer and filmmaker Nora Ephron after a different recipe resulted in a disaster and I had to discard the result with only a few hours before my dinner with -- did I mention? -- Nora Ephron. It derives from a meatball dish once cooked by the chef Mark Ladner at the restaurant Lupa in Manhattan, and published as a recipe in Details magazine in the early years of the century. I scaled it up over the years, increasing some spices here and there, lessening others, until I had what I thought to be a pretty terrific meatloaf. But don't take my word for it. ‘This is remarkable,’ Ms. Ephron told me. I'm bragging about it still.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
This was featured in “Potlucky” and can be viewed online here.
Note: This recipe calls for 1 cup red wine. If, like me, you don’t keep wine or any alcohol around the house, I imagine you could replace this with 1 cup water. Yes, this will affect the taste a little, but it’s do-able.
Ingredients
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh bread crumbs of any provenance
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound sweet Italian pork sausage, casing removed, crumbled
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces bacon, chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, seeds removed
1 cup red wine
1/4 bunch mint
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Combine 2/3 of the garlic, the rosemary, pepper flakes, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix. Add the turkey and sausage and mix once more to combine; don’t overmix. Transfer onto a board and shape into a fine meatloaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Place in a baking pan with high sides (a 9 x12 pan with 2-inch sides works well), drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 325 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, fry the bacon in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until it starts to curl and its fat is rendered. Add the onions and remaining garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and wine and bring to a boil.
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf, cover tightly with foil and bake until a meat thermometer inserted at the center reads 150 degrees, 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the meatloaf to a platter and let stand, tented with foil, for 10 minutes. Cut into thick slices, spoon tomato sauce over the top and scatter with torn mint leaves.
TURKEY LENTIL SLOPPY JOES WITH QUICK CABBAGE SLAW
This is originally from Oven to Table, by Jan Scott, and reprinted on Taste for Life. Prep Time: 55 minutes; Makes 8 in regular-sized buns, or 16 in mini-slider buns.
You can view this online at https://tasteforlife.com/healthy-recipes/appetizers/turkey-lentil-sloppy-joes-with-quick-cabbage-slaw.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joes
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
Kosher salt
2 cloves garlic, grated or pressed
1 lb ground turkey
2 cups cooked green or brown lentils (or 1 19-oz can, rinsed and drained)
3 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp prepared yellow mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp hot sauce
For the Slaw
4 cups chopped red cabbage (about 1 small cabbage)
1 large carrot, peeled
3 green onions, ends trimmed and thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tsp liquid honey
1 tsp celery seed
Kosher salt
For Serving
8 whole-wheat dinner rolls or hamburger buns (split in half and toasted)*
Directions
In a large cast iron, stainless steel, or nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, season with a pinch of salt and sauté until onions are soft and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Crumble ground turkey into skillet and stir to combine, cooking until browned. Add lentils, chili powder, oregano, cumin, pepper, and tomato paste and stir, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes to infuse turkey and lentils with spices.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, for 20 minutes. Check seasonings and add more salt if needed.
While meat mixture is cooking, make slaw. Place cabbage in a medium bowl and, using a vegetable peeler, shave carrot into ribbons. Add carrot and green onions to bowl and toss with clean hands to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, and celery seed. Pour over cabbage and toss to combine. Finish with a pinch of salt.
Spoon Sloppy Joes onto split and toasted rolls. Top with slaw and serve at once.
Notes
For more of a bite-size snack, turn these into sliders. Just replace the 8 hamburger buns with approximately 16 mini-slider buns.
You can easily double or triple this recipe for a large party. The slaw adds some crunch to this dish. Its simplicity lends itself well to customization, so feel free to play around with vegetables if you like, maybe adding some grated apple or green cabbage to the mix.
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
TURKEY CHILI
This is from American Heart Association, and begins, "Warm up on a cool evening with this classic chili dish. Our version is full of fiber, low in sodium, and extraordinarily delicious." Makes 6 servings; serving size: 1 1/3 cups
To view this online, go to https://recipes.heart.org/en/recipes/turkey-chili.
Ingredients
1 1/2 tablespoons canola or corn oil
1 medium or large onion, chopped
20 ounces ground skinless turkey breast
2 large garlic cloves, minced
OR
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 15.5-ounce can no-salt-added pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 15.5-ounce can no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained
1 14.5-ounce can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
1 3/4 cups fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen whole-kernel corn
1 6-ounce can no-salt-added tomato paste
4 medium green onions (green part only), sliced
Directions
In a Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the chopped onion for 3 minutes, or until soft, stirring occasionally.
Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the turkey. Cook for 5 minutes, or until browned, stirring frequently to turn and break up the turkey.
Stir in the garlic, chili powder, pepper, and cumin. Stir in the remaining ingredients except the green onions. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through, stirring frequently. Just before serving, sprinkle with the green onions.
FAJITA TURKEY BURGER
Makes 5 servings
See the recipe with photo here: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1326.shtml
Ingredients
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground pepper, if desired
1 (16-ounce) package Jennie-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1/4 cup salsa, drained
3/4 cup cilantro, divided
2 onions, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
Wholly Guacamole classic or spicy dip, if desired
Wholly Guacamole salsa, if desired
5 reduced-calorie hamburger buns, split
1/3 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese
Directions
In small bowl, combine cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, red pepper flakes, paprika and salt and pepper, if desired.
Mix ground turkey, half of spice mixture, drained salsa, and 1/2 cup cilantro; form into 5 (1/2-inch thick) patties. Lightly spray patties with cooking spray. Place patties in skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 17 to 19 minutes, turning occasionally.
Always cook to well done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Meanwhile, coat large skillet with cooking spray. Cook onions, bell peppers and remaining spice mixture over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining 1/4 cup cilantro.
To assemble burgers, spread guacamole and salsa, if desired, on buns. Place burgers, cheese and vegetable mixture on buns.
Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 260; Protein: 29 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 410 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday, since not everyone loves tacos. (This always comes as a surprise to me, but that's cool. To each, his or her own.) Today's offerings include Super-Delicious Zuppa Toscana and Old-Fashioned Meatloaf. Enjoy!
TURKEY CHILI
This is from Eric Kim from The New York Times cooking site. Eric wrote, "Rather than browning the meat first, which doesn’t do much for lean ground turkey and can actually make it tough, this recipe prioritizes cooking down the vegetables first. Onions and canned tomatoes fried in olive oil provide an umami-rich flavor base for turkey’s blank canvas, and the adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers does a lot of this dish’s heavy lifting. Optional toppings like shredded cheese and sour cream help cool down the spice. One of the best ways to enjoy this simple but powerful chili is over French fries with melted cheese, or tossed with some cooked spaghetti. It’s so great on its own, as well."
Yield: 2 to 4 servings; Time: 45 minutes
This was featured in "Learn to Cook (and Heart It) in 10 Easy Dishes", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023225-turkey-chili.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large white onion, diced
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
Salt
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 pound ground turkey
1 (7-ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Shredded extra-sharp Cheddar, sour cream and whole cilantro leaves, for serving (optional)
Preparation
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until translucent and starting to brown at the edges, 5 to 7 minutes.
Use a fork to fish the tomatoes out of the can and add them to the pot, leaving behind the juice for now. Season with salt and cook the tomatoes, breaking them up with the wooden spoon and stirring occasionally, until jammy and their liquid has reduced significantly, 5 to 7 minutes.
Stir in the chili powder and cook until fragrant, just a few seconds. Add the ground turkey, season with salt and stir to combine, breaking up the meat with the spoon. (Don’t worry about browning or cooking it through here, as it will do so when it simmers.) Stir in the reserved liquid from the tomato can.
Use the fork to fish out as many chipotle peppers from the can as you would like, starting with two or three, and add to the pot, breaking them up with the wooden spoon, along with all of the adobo sauce. The more peppers you use, the spicier your final chili will be; if you like spice, just add the entire can. (Store any peppers you don’t use in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week and in the freezer for up to 2 months.) Fill the empty chipotle can with cold tap water, swish it around and add to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the chili to a simmer over medium-high heat — you should see occasional small bubbles breaking the surface of the mixture — then cover the pot and reduce the heat to continue simmering over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the tomatoes have broken down, about 20 minutes. The chili should look thick and shiny, but not too thick that you couldn’t ladle it into a bowl. (If it's too watery, then simmer with the lid off for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.) Taste and add more salt if desired. Serve with cheese, sour cream and cilantro, if using.
SUPER-DELICIOUS ZUPPA TOSCANA
This was on AllRecipes, and begins, "This is an oh-so-good recipe. Just the right amount of spice to make you take a cold drink but definitely keep coming back for more! This soup is irresistible!"
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour; Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/143069/super-delicious-zuppa-toscana/.
Ingredients
1 pound bulk mild Italian sausage
1-1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
4 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 large onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
5 (13.75 ounce) cans chicken broth
6 potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 bunch fresh spinach, tough stems removed
Directions
Cook the Italian sausage and red pepper flakes in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until crumbly, browned, and no longer pink, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cook the bacon in the same Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp, about 10 minutes. Drain, leaving a few tablespoons of drippings with the bacon in the bottom of the Dutch oven. Stir in the onions and garlic; cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Pour the chicken broth into the Dutch oven with the bacon and onion mixture; bring to a boil over high heat. Add the potatoes, and boil until fork tender, about 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and the cooked sausage; heat through. Mix the spinach into the soup just before serving.
Editor's Note:
Please note the differences in serving size and the substitution of lacinato kale for spinach when using the magazine version of this recipe.
TWICE-BAKED POTATOES
This yummy recipes is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes; Yield: 12 to 16 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/twice-baked-potatoes-recipe-1925596.
Ingredients
8 baking potatoes, washed
3 tablespoons canola oil
2 sticks salted butter
1 cup bacon bits (fry your own!)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup Cheddar or Jack cheese (or a mix of both), plus more for topping
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
3 green onions, sliced
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Rub them with the canola oil and bake for 1 hour, making sure they're sufficiently cooked through.
Slice the butter into pats. Place in a large mixing bowl and add the bacon bits and sour cream. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Lower the heat to 350 degrees F.
With a sharp knife, cut each potato in half lengthwise. Scrape out the insides into the mixing bowl, being careful not to tear the shell. Leave a small rim of potato intact for support. Lay the hollowed out potato shells on a baking sheet.
Smash the potatoes into the butter, bacon and sour cream. Add the cheese, milk, seasoned salt, green onions and black pepper to taste and mix together well. (IMPORTANT: If you plan to freeze the twice-baked potatoes, do NOT add the green onions.)
Fill the potato shells with the filling. I like to fill the shells so they look abundant and heaping. Top each potato with a little more grated cheese and pop 'em in the oven until the potato is warmed through, 15 to 20 minutes.
GRAMMA'S OLD FASHIONED CHILI MAC
This is from an anonymous poster on AllRecipes, and begins, "This is an old family recipe that my mom has cooked for 50 years. It's a wonderful, 'stick-to-the-ribs' meal that goes wonderful with warm cornbread or rolls. I find that kids love this when they don't like regular 'spicy' chili. Enjoy!"
Parep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/47406/grammas-old-fashioned-chili-mac/.
Ingredients
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 large green bell pepper, chopped
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
1/8 cup brown sugar
salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
In a small saucepan, simmer celery and green pepper with water to cover until tender; Drain.
Place ground beef in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Cook until evenly brown. Add onion, and cook until tender and translucent. Drain excess fat. Add celery and green pepper. Stir in kidney beans, condensed tomato soup, diced tomatoes and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in macaroni.
LASAGNA
This is from Regina Schrambling on The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “In 2001, Regina Schrambling went on a week long odyssey in search of the ultimate lasagna recipe. She tested several, and finally found her ideal in a mash-up of recipes from Giuliano Bugialli and Elodia Rigante, both Italian cookbook authors.
“‘If there were central casting for casseroles, this one deserved the leading role. But its beauty was more than cheese deep. This was the best lasagna I had ever eaten. The sauce was intensely flavored, the cheeses melted into creaminess as if they were bechamel, the meat was just chunky enough, and the noodles put up no resistance to the fork. Most important, the balance of pasta and sauce was positively Italian. At last I could understand why my neighbor Geoff had told me, as I dragged home more bags in our elevator, that all-day lasagna is the only kind worth making.’”
Time: 4 hours; Yield: 8 to 10 servings
This was featured in “The Noodle and I: A Face-of at the Oven”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/9530-lasagna.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 medium red onions, finely diced
2 large cloves minced garlic
8 ounces pancetta, diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups good red wine, preferably Italian
2 28-ounce cans Italian plum tomatoes
3 tablespoons tomato paste
3/4 pound ground sirloin
1/4 cup freshly grated pecorino Romano
2 eggs
10 sprigs fresh parsley, leaves only, washed and dried
2 large whole cloves garlic
1/2 cup flour
1 pound Italian sausage, a mix of hot and sweet
For the Lasagna:
1 15-ounce container ricotta cheese
2 extra-large eggs
2 cups freshly grated pecorino Romano
1/2 cup chopped parsley
1 pound mozzarella, grated
16 sheets fresh lasagna noodles, preferably Antica Pasteria
Preparation
For the sauce, heat 1/2 cup oil in a large heavy Dutch oven or kettle over low heat. Add the onions, minced garlic and pancetta, and cook, stirring, for 10 minutes, until the onions are wilted. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Raise heat slightly, add the wine and cook until it is mostly reduced, about 20 minutes. Crush the tomatoes into the pan, and add their juice. Add the tomato paste and 2 cups lukewarm water. Simmer for 1 hour.
Combine the sirloin, cheese and eggs in a large bowl. Chop the parsley with the whole garlic until fine, then stir into the beef mixture. Season lavishly with salt and pepper. Using your hands, mix until all the ingredients are well blended. Shape into meatballs and set aside.
Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dust the meatballs lightly with flour, shaking off excess, and lay into the hot oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides (do not cook through) and transfer to the sauce.
In a clean skillet, brown the sausages over medium-high heat. Transfer to the sauce. Simmer 1 1/2 hours.
Heat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, eggs, pecorino Romano, parsley and all but 1 cup of the mozzarella. Season well with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Remove the meatballs and sausage from the sauce, and set aside to cool slightly, then chop coarsely. Spoon a thick layer of sauce into the bottom of a 9-by-12-inch lasagna pan. Cover with a layer of noodles. Spoon more sauce on top, then add a third of the meat and a third of the cheese mixture. Repeat for 2 more layers, using all the meat and cheese. Top with a layer of noodles, and cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle reserved mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake 30 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
OLD-FASHIONED MEATLOAF
This comes from VeryWellFit, and begins, “This lighter meatloaf recipe is similar to the one most of us enjoyed during our childhoods, but without all of the extra fat. Choose a lean ground beef or, better yet, ground turkey to cut down on the fat. And since you can't make meatloaf without breadcrumbs, why not replace the white, unrefined with whole wheat for added fiber? Also, using two egg whites in place of one whole egg will reduce the calories and fat while still helping to bind the mixture together.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground meat (85% to 90% lean, or ground turkey)
1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat)
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped or 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion flakes)
2 cloves garlic (minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon sage
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup water (or low-fat milk)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. Mix well, using your hands, but don't overmix because you will toughen the meat.
Turn mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for about 1 hour.
To be sure the meatloaf is done, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The temperature should register 155F when it is done.
About 10 to 15 minutes before you think the meatloaf will be done, you can cover it with barbecue sauce if you like.
International Meatloaf
If you are looking for a different kind of meatloaf, try kofta kebabs, a Middle Eastern grilled ground meat recipe. The spices in this meat mixture (traditionally lamb) are a delicious change of pace from the usual. If you don't have the time or inclination to place them on skewers, you can make them into oblong-oval shapes that look like sausages without the casings.
TURKEY CHILI
This is from Eric Kim from The New York Times cooking site. Eric wrote, "Rather than browning the meat first, which doesn’t do much for lean ground turkey and can actually make it tough, this recipe prioritizes cooking down the vegetables first. Onions and canned tomatoes fried in olive oil provide an umami-rich flavor base for turkey’s blank canvas, and the adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers does a lot of this dish’s heavy lifting. Optional toppings like shredded cheese and sour cream help cool down the spice. One of the best ways to enjoy this simple but powerful chili is over French fries with melted cheese, or tossed with some cooked spaghetti. It’s so great on its own, as well."
Yield: 2 to 4 servings; Time: 45 minutes
This was featured in "Learn to Cook (and Heart It) in 10 Easy Dishes", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023225-turkey-chili.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large white onion, diced
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
Salt
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 pound ground turkey
1 (7-ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Shredded extra-sharp Cheddar, sour cream and whole cilantro leaves, for serving (optional)
Preparation
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until translucent and starting to brown at the edges, 5 to 7 minutes.
Use a fork to fish the tomatoes out of the can and add them to the pot, leaving behind the juice for now. Season with salt and cook the tomatoes, breaking them up with the wooden spoon and stirring occasionally, until jammy and their liquid has reduced significantly, 5 to 7 minutes.
Stir in the chili powder and cook until fragrant, just a few seconds. Add the ground turkey, season with salt and stir to combine, breaking up the meat with the spoon. (Don’t worry about browning or cooking it through here, as it will do so when it simmers.) Stir in the reserved liquid from the tomato can.
Use the fork to fish out as many chipotle peppers from the can as you would like, starting with two or three, and add to the pot, breaking them up with the wooden spoon, along with all of the adobo sauce. The more peppers you use, the spicier your final chili will be; if you like spice, just add the entire can. (Store any peppers you don’t use in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week and in the freezer for up to 2 months.) Fill the empty chipotle can with cold tap water, swish it around and add to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the chili to a simmer over medium-high heat — you should see occasional small bubbles breaking the surface of the mixture — then cover the pot and reduce the heat to continue simmering over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the tomatoes have broken down, about 20 minutes. The chili should look thick and shiny, but not too thick that you couldn’t ladle it into a bowl. (If it's too watery, then simmer with the lid off for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.) Taste and add more salt if desired. Serve with cheese, sour cream and cilantro, if using.
SUPER-DELICIOUS ZUPPA TOSCANA
This was on AllRecipes, and begins, "This is an oh-so-good recipe. Just the right amount of spice to make you take a cold drink but definitely keep coming back for more! This soup is irresistible!"
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour; Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/143069/super-delicious-zuppa-toscana/.
Ingredients
1 pound bulk mild Italian sausage
1-1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
4 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 large onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
5 (13.75 ounce) cans chicken broth
6 potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 bunch fresh spinach, tough stems removed
Directions
Cook the Italian sausage and red pepper flakes in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until crumbly, browned, and no longer pink, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cook the bacon in the same Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp, about 10 minutes. Drain, leaving a few tablespoons of drippings with the bacon in the bottom of the Dutch oven. Stir in the onions and garlic; cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Pour the chicken broth into the Dutch oven with the bacon and onion mixture; bring to a boil over high heat. Add the potatoes, and boil until fork tender, about 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and the cooked sausage; heat through. Mix the spinach into the soup just before serving.
Editor's Note:
Please note the differences in serving size and the substitution of lacinato kale for spinach when using the magazine version of this recipe.
TWICE-BAKED POTATOES
This yummy recipes is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes; Yield: 12 to 16 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/twice-baked-potatoes-recipe-1925596.
Ingredients
8 baking potatoes, washed
3 tablespoons canola oil
2 sticks salted butter
1 cup bacon bits (fry your own!)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup Cheddar or Jack cheese (or a mix of both), plus more for topping
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
3 green onions, sliced
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Rub them with the canola oil and bake for 1 hour, making sure they're sufficiently cooked through.
Slice the butter into pats. Place in a large mixing bowl and add the bacon bits and sour cream. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Lower the heat to 350 degrees F.
With a sharp knife, cut each potato in half lengthwise. Scrape out the insides into the mixing bowl, being careful not to tear the shell. Leave a small rim of potato intact for support. Lay the hollowed out potato shells on a baking sheet.
Smash the potatoes into the butter, bacon and sour cream. Add the cheese, milk, seasoned salt, green onions and black pepper to taste and mix together well. (IMPORTANT: If you plan to freeze the twice-baked potatoes, do NOT add the green onions.)
Fill the potato shells with the filling. I like to fill the shells so they look abundant and heaping. Top each potato with a little more grated cheese and pop 'em in the oven until the potato is warmed through, 15 to 20 minutes.
GRAMMA'S OLD FASHIONED CHILI MAC
This is from an anonymous poster on AllRecipes, and begins, "This is an old family recipe that my mom has cooked for 50 years. It's a wonderful, 'stick-to-the-ribs' meal that goes wonderful with warm cornbread or rolls. I find that kids love this when they don't like regular 'spicy' chili. Enjoy!"
Parep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/47406/grammas-old-fashioned-chili-mac/.
Ingredients
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 large green bell pepper, chopped
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
1/8 cup brown sugar
salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
In a small saucepan, simmer celery and green pepper with water to cover until tender; Drain.
Place ground beef in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Cook until evenly brown. Add onion, and cook until tender and translucent. Drain excess fat. Add celery and green pepper. Stir in kidney beans, condensed tomato soup, diced tomatoes and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in macaroni.
LASAGNA
This is from Regina Schrambling on The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “In 2001, Regina Schrambling went on a week long odyssey in search of the ultimate lasagna recipe. She tested several, and finally found her ideal in a mash-up of recipes from Giuliano Bugialli and Elodia Rigante, both Italian cookbook authors.
“‘If there were central casting for casseroles, this one deserved the leading role. But its beauty was more than cheese deep. This was the best lasagna I had ever eaten. The sauce was intensely flavored, the cheeses melted into creaminess as if they were bechamel, the meat was just chunky enough, and the noodles put up no resistance to the fork. Most important, the balance of pasta and sauce was positively Italian. At last I could understand why my neighbor Geoff had told me, as I dragged home more bags in our elevator, that all-day lasagna is the only kind worth making.’”
Time: 4 hours; Yield: 8 to 10 servings
This was featured in “The Noodle and I: A Face-of at the Oven”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/9530-lasagna.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 medium red onions, finely diced
2 large cloves minced garlic
8 ounces pancetta, diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups good red wine, preferably Italian
2 28-ounce cans Italian plum tomatoes
3 tablespoons tomato paste
3/4 pound ground sirloin
1/4 cup freshly grated pecorino Romano
2 eggs
10 sprigs fresh parsley, leaves only, washed and dried
2 large whole cloves garlic
1/2 cup flour
1 pound Italian sausage, a mix of hot and sweet
For the Lasagna:
1 15-ounce container ricotta cheese
2 extra-large eggs
2 cups freshly grated pecorino Romano
1/2 cup chopped parsley
1 pound mozzarella, grated
16 sheets fresh lasagna noodles, preferably Antica Pasteria
Preparation
For the sauce, heat 1/2 cup oil in a large heavy Dutch oven or kettle over low heat. Add the onions, minced garlic and pancetta, and cook, stirring, for 10 minutes, until the onions are wilted. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Raise heat slightly, add the wine and cook until it is mostly reduced, about 20 minutes. Crush the tomatoes into the pan, and add their juice. Add the tomato paste and 2 cups lukewarm water. Simmer for 1 hour.
Combine the sirloin, cheese and eggs in a large bowl. Chop the parsley with the whole garlic until fine, then stir into the beef mixture. Season lavishly with salt and pepper. Using your hands, mix until all the ingredients are well blended. Shape into meatballs and set aside.
Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dust the meatballs lightly with flour, shaking off excess, and lay into the hot oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides (do not cook through) and transfer to the sauce.
In a clean skillet, brown the sausages over medium-high heat. Transfer to the sauce. Simmer 1 1/2 hours.
Heat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, eggs, pecorino Romano, parsley and all but 1 cup of the mozzarella. Season well with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Remove the meatballs and sausage from the sauce, and set aside to cool slightly, then chop coarsely. Spoon a thick layer of sauce into the bottom of a 9-by-12-inch lasagna pan. Cover with a layer of noodles. Spoon more sauce on top, then add a third of the meat and a third of the cheese mixture. Repeat for 2 more layers, using all the meat and cheese. Top with a layer of noodles, and cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle reserved mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake 30 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
OLD-FASHIONED MEATLOAF
This comes from VeryWellFit, and begins, “This lighter meatloaf recipe is similar to the one most of us enjoyed during our childhoods, but without all of the extra fat. Choose a lean ground beef or, better yet, ground turkey to cut down on the fat. And since you can't make meatloaf without breadcrumbs, why not replace the white, unrefined with whole wheat for added fiber? Also, using two egg whites in place of one whole egg will reduce the calories and fat while still helping to bind the mixture together.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground meat (85% to 90% lean, or ground turkey)
1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat)
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped or 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion flakes)
2 cloves garlic (minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon sage
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup water (or low-fat milk)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. Mix well, using your hands, but don't overmix because you will toughen the meat.
Turn mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for about 1 hour.
To be sure the meatloaf is done, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The temperature should register 155F when it is done.
About 10 to 15 minutes before you think the meatloaf will be done, you can cover it with barbecue sauce if you like.
International Meatloaf
If you are looking for a different kind of meatloaf, try kofta kebabs, a Middle Eastern grilled ground meat recipe. The spices in this meat mixture (traditionally lamb) are a delicious change of pace from the usual. If you don't have the time or inclination to place them on skewers, you can make them into oblong-oval shapes that look like sausages without the casings.
Taco Tuesday
Are you ready for another Taco Tuesday? I hope so. Today's yummy offerings include Cheesy Nacho Walking Taco Bowls and Pork & Pineapple Tacos. Enjoy!
TACO SALAD
This yumminess is from Sohla El-Waylly at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Sohla wrote, "This Mexican American classic has roots at Disneyland. Charles Elmer Doolin, a cofounder of the Frito Company, created an edible cup out of Fritos and served it at his Disneyland restaurant, Casa de Fritos, in 1955. It was the size of a teacup, filled with ground beef, beans and sour cream, and called the Ta-Cup (a portmanteau of taco and cup). The creation was a hit, with recipes for taco salad made with various corn chips proliferating in the ’60s, becoming a staple in school cafeterias, and eventually growing into the jumbo version added to the Taco Bell menu in 1984. (The menu item was retired in 2020.) You can use any corn chip for this recipe, and there’s no need for it to be in cup form, but opt for Fritos, if you want that authentic taste."
Time: 35 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1024304-taco-salad.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as safflower or canola)
1 pound ground beef
Salt
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 (15.5-ounce) can pinto beans, drained, 1/2 cup bean liquid reserved
Corn chips (preferably Fritos), as desired
2 cups/4 ounces coarsely grated Colby or Cheddar cheese, plus more for serving
1 small head iceberg lettuce, shredded
1 large beefsteak tomato, chopped
1 avocado, chopped
2 limes, cut into wedges
1/2 cup sour cream
Hot sauce, to serve
Preparation
In a large cast-iron or stainless skillet over medium-high, heat the oil until it shimmers. Add the beef and press it into one even layer. Sprinkle evenly with salt and onion, and cook, undisturbed, until the beef is deeply browned on the bottom and still slightly pink on top, and the onions have wilted, 5 to 7 minutes. If there is an excess of fat in the pan at this point, tip the skillet and use a spoon to discard it.
Sprinkle over the cumin, oregano, chili powder and garlic. Using a wooden spoon, break the meat into small crumbles and stir. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spices are aromatic and the meat has cooked through, about 2 minutes.
Add the beans and reserved bean liquid, and use the spoon to scrape up any browned bits. Simmer until mostly reduced, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, taste and add more salt if needed.
Arrange some corn chips evenly across the bottom of four serving plates. Evenly divide the meat mixture, cheese, lettuce, tomato and avocado on top of the chips. Squeeze lime juice over the top and lightly sprinkle with salt. Top each salad with a handful of crushed corn chips, a big dollop of sour cream, and extra cheese. Serve right away with hot sauce alongside.
CRISPY POTATO TACOS
This is from Hetty Lui McKinnon in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. This recipe begins, "Potato tacos, or tacos de papa, as they are known in Mexico, make the perfect meal for those times when you find yourself with an excess of potatoes and a package of tortillas on hand. Tortillas are an endlessly versatile pantry item. In this recipe, adapted from “Tenderheart” by Hetty Lui McKinnon (Alfred A. Knopf, 2023), they are stuffed with potato and cheese for a deeply satisfying meal or light snack. Cooking the potatoes whole, skin intact, prevents them from absorbing too much water, and the skin also adds a nice texture to the filling. Shortcuts are always available: If you’ve got leftover mashed potatoes, you can use them and skip the first step."
Time: 1-1/4 hours; Yield: 4 servings
This was featured in "4 Easy Dishes That Embrace Everyday Vegetables", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1024397-crispy-potato-tacos.
Ingredients
For the Tacos
Sea salt
1-1/2 pounds potatoes (any variety), scrubbed and cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
1-1/2 cups grated Cheddar
Handful of cilantro, leaves and stems finely chopped
1 small garlic clove, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
16 to 18 corn tortillas
Neutral oil, as needed
Any combination of sliced lettuce or cabbage, very finely sliced red onion or sour cream (all optional), for serving
For the Spicy Red Salsa
3 tomatoes (about 1 pound), chopped
1/2 red onion, roughly chopped
Small handful of cilantro, leaves and stems roughly chopped
1 fresh serrano or Fresno chile (seeded, if you prefer less spice)
1 garlic clove, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Sea salt
3/4 cup vegetable stock
Preparation
Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender. (Check them by inserting a fork or knife into the largest potato piece. If it goes in and out easily, the potato is ready.) Drain and allow to cool for a few minutes.
Make the spicy red salsa: Place tomatoes, onion, cilantro, chile, garlic, cumin, oregano, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt into a blender or food processor and blitz until completely smooth. Pour the purée into a saucepan, add the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until darker in color and slightly thickened, while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
Place the cooled potatoes in a bowl and roughly mash them. (It does not have to be smooth; a chunky texture is great.) Add the Cheddar, cilantro, garlic, cumin, paprika and 1 teaspoon sea salt and mix to combine.
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and, working in batches, add the corn tortillas and heat until soft and pliable. Remove from the pan and cover the tortillas with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm. Fill each warmed tortilla with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture, then fold in half and press down lightly.
In the same skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan and warm over medium-high heat. Place three or four tacos in the oil, pressing down lightly with a spatula so that the edges are in the oil, and fry for 1 to 2 minutes, until golden and crispy. Flip them over and repeat on the other side. Repeat with the remaining tacos.
Serve the tacos with the spicy red salsa and any of the optional serving suggestions. (The potatoes can be cooked and mashed 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The salsa can be made 2 days ahead and kept in the fridge. For freezing info, see Tip.)
Tip
You can freeze these assembled tacos by wrapping them tightly and storing in a freezer bag or airtight container. To cook, there is no need to thaw; you can fry them straight from frozen.
STEAK TACO SALAD
This is from Tricia Manzanero Studeman on Southern Living's site. The recipe begins, "Who doesn’t love a good taco salad? It’s everything you love about taco night, but less assembly!
"Here, we sneak some classic Tex-Mex flavor from store-bought seasoning packets—they give the grilled flank steak a savory, cumin-scented punch. Piled high with grilled corn, tomatoes, creamy avocado, shredded cheese, and crumbled tortilla chips, this hearty main dish salad will make any weeknight dinner a fiesta."
First off, here are DIY Pickled Onions.
Microwave 1/2 cup each vinegar and water in a heatproof jar for 3 minutes. Stir in 1 tsp. sugar, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1 sliced red onion. Let stand 20 minutes.."
Active Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/steak-taco-salad-7556399.
Ingredients
1 (8-oz.) container sour cream
2/3 cup smooth mild salsa
1/2 cup plus 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro, divided, plus more for garnish
3 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1 (1-oz.) envelope taco seasoning mix, divided
2 Tbsp. canola oil
3 ears (about 1 lb. total) fresh yellow corn
1 (1-1/2-lb.) top sirloin steak (1 to 1-1/2 inches thick)
1 (5-oz.) pkg. spring mix salad greens (about 7 cups)
1 (7-oz.) pkg. shredded Mexican 3-cheese blend (about 1-3/4 cups)
1-1/2 cups roughly crushed tortilla chips
1-1/2 cups diced plum tomatoes (from 3 medium tomatoes)
1-1/2 cups thinly sliced pickled red onions (from 1 [16-oz.] jar)
2 medium avocados, chopped
Directions
Whisk together sour cream, salsa, 1 tablespoon of the cilantro, 1-1/2 teaspoons of the salt, and 1-1/2 teaspoons of the taco seasoning mix until smooth; set dressing aside.
Preheat grill to high (450°F to 500°F). Whisk together oil and remaining taco seasoning mix in a small bowl. Brush corn with 1-1/2 teaspoons oil mixture; set remaining oil mixture aside. Pat steak dry using paper towels; sprinkle evenly with remaining 1-1/2 teaspoons salt.
Place corn and steak on oiled grates. Grill corn, covered, until slightly charred and tender, 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. Grill steak, covered, until a thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 135°F to 145°F (medium), 8 to 11 minutes, or to desired degree of doneness, brushing both sides with reserved oil mixture halfway through grill time. Transfer steak to a cutting board. Cover with aluminum foil, and let rest 10 minutes.
When corn is cool enough to handle, cut kernels from cobs. Thinly slice steak against the grain; cut slices into 1-inch pieces. Divide lettuce and remaining 1/2 cup cilantro among 4 bowls. Top with steak, corn, cheese, chips, tomatoes, onions, and avocados. Drizzle as desired with dressing. Garnish with cilantro, and serve with remaining dressing.
CHEESY NACHO WALKING TACO BOWLS
This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Whether you enjoy these Cheesy Nacho Walking Taco Bowls at the table or on the go, with only 20 minutes of prep time needed, this simple meal is sure to make it to your list of go-to recipes. Seasoned ground beef and crushed up nacho-flavored tortilla chips punch up the flavor while Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls bring taste and convenience to this walking taco recipe. Just fill it up and go."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Serves: 8
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/cheesy-nacho-walking-taco-bowls.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)
2/3 cup water
1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix
1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ Chopped Green Chiles
1 package (8 count) Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package
1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded 3 Pepper Cheese Blend (4 oz)
1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
3 cups nacho cheese tortilla chips, coarsely crushed
1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Mild Taco Sauce
1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Crema Mexicana
Preparation
In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in water, taco seasoning mix and green chiles; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
Divide warmed beef mixture among heated tortilla bowls. Top with cheese, lettuce, tortilla chips, tomatoes, taco sauce and sour cream.
Expert Tips
Want a little more heat? Top your walking taco bowls with Old El Paso™ Medium Taco Sauce.
Try Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend to replace Shredded 3 Pepper Cheese Blend for a different flavor twist.
Try topping with more fresh toppings like chopped avocados or green onions.
BIRRIA TACOS
This is from Claudette Zepeda at Food & Wine. For this recipe, Claudette wrote, "A combination of two meats creates the best balance of tender texture (from the chuck roast) and succulence (from the short ribs). These birria tacos get slow-cooked flavor from the adobo sauce."
Active Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 8 hours 55 minutes; Yield: 16
To view this online, go to https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/birria-tacos.
Ingredients
1 (2-pound) boneless chuck roast (about 2 1/4 inches thick)
2 pounds English-cut beef short ribs (about 3 ribs)
2 tablespoons plus 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste
Adobo
8 cups water
1 cup finely chopped white onion, rinsed
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
Canola oil, for greasing
32 (6-inch) fresh corn tortillas or 16 packaged corn tortillas
Lime wedges, for serving
Directions
Sprinkle chuck roast and short ribs all over with 2 tablespoons salt. Combine roast, ribs, and adobo in a large nonreactive bowl; toss to coat. Cover and chill at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 300°F. Transfer adobo mixture to a large (9 1/2-quart) Dutch oven; add 8 cups water. Bring to a simmer, uncovered, over medium, stirring occasionally. Cover with lid, and place in preheated oven. Bake until meat is fork- tender, about 4 hours.
Remove chuck roast and short ribs from braising broth, and transfer to a large bowl; cover with aluminum foil to keep warm. Return broth in Dutch oven to heat over medium, and cook, uncovered, skimming off fat as needed, until reduced to about 8 cups, 15 to 20 minutes. Season broth with salt to taste. Shred meat; discard bones. Toss meat with 1-1/2 cups of the broth.
Stir together onion, cilantro, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl; set aside.
Heat a large nonstick electric griddle to 400°F or a large (12-inch) cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Using a paper towel dipped in canola oil, lightly grease griddle. If using fresh tortillas, stack 2 tortillas, and use tongs to dip them together into adobo broth. (If using packaged tortillas, dip 1 tortilla per taco.) Place stacked tortillas on griddle; top with 1/4 cup meat. Repeat with as many tortilla stacks as will comfortably fit on griddle. Cook until bottom tortilla is lightly browned and crispy, 1 to 2 minutes. Fold tacos in half, gently pressing with a spatula. Transfer to a serving plate. Repeat process with oil, adobo broth, remaining tortillas, and remaining meat.
Serve tacos hot with onion-cilantro mixture, lime wedges, and remaining adobo broth for dipping or sipping.
Make Ahead
Adobo can be made up to 3 days ahead. Meat can be braised up to 2 days in advance and reheated in broth before shredding meat and reducing broth.
PORK & PINEAPPLE TACOS
This is from EatingWell (originally from Diabetic Living Magazine, Summer 2020), and begins, "Plan ahead so you can use your slow cooker to prepare the pulled pork for these tacos. This recipe is a better-for-you twist on the classic tacos al pastor. Pork loin is a lean cut that's a healthier option than traditional pork shoulder, which has more fat."
Active: 30 minutes; Total Time: 7 hours 30 minutes; Makes 6 servings; Serving Size: 2 tacos (2 tortillas + about 1/2 cup pork + 1/3 cup cabbage + 1/3 cup salad)
To view this online, go to https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/280196/pork-pineapple-tacos/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon packed light brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
1 (2 pound) pork loin roast, trimmed
1/3 cup apple juice
1/2 cup lime juice
2 cups finely diced fresh pineapple (about 1/2 small pineapple)
1 cup finely diced seeded cucumber
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
12 6-inch corn tortillas, warmed
2 cups shredded red cabbage
Directions
Step 1
Combine chili powder, paprika, brown sugar, 1/2 tsp. salt, garlic powder, and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 2
Place pork in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork. Pour apple juice around the pork. Cover and cook on Low until the pork is fork-tender, 6 to 7 hours.
Step 3
Meanwhile, combine lime juice and the remaining 1/4 tsp. salt in a medium bowl. Add pineapple, cucumber, and onion; toss to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4
Skim off visible fat from the juices in the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the meat. Stir in vinegar.
Step 5
To assemble tacos: Place a generous 1/4 cup pulled pork on each tortilla and add a drizzle of the cooking liquid. Top with about 2 1/2 Tbsp. shredded cabbage and about 3 Tbsp. of the pineapple salsa.
Tips
Equipment: 5- to 6-qt. slow cooker
To make ahead: Prepare spice rub (Step 1) up to 24 hours ahead. Refrigerate salsa (Step 3) for up to 1 day.
TACO SALAD
This yumminess is from Sohla El-Waylly at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Sohla wrote, "This Mexican American classic has roots at Disneyland. Charles Elmer Doolin, a cofounder of the Frito Company, created an edible cup out of Fritos and served it at his Disneyland restaurant, Casa de Fritos, in 1955. It was the size of a teacup, filled with ground beef, beans and sour cream, and called the Ta-Cup (a portmanteau of taco and cup). The creation was a hit, with recipes for taco salad made with various corn chips proliferating in the ’60s, becoming a staple in school cafeterias, and eventually growing into the jumbo version added to the Taco Bell menu in 1984. (The menu item was retired in 2020.) You can use any corn chip for this recipe, and there’s no need for it to be in cup form, but opt for Fritos, if you want that authentic taste."
Time: 35 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1024304-taco-salad.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as safflower or canola)
1 pound ground beef
Salt
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 (15.5-ounce) can pinto beans, drained, 1/2 cup bean liquid reserved
Corn chips (preferably Fritos), as desired
2 cups/4 ounces coarsely grated Colby or Cheddar cheese, plus more for serving
1 small head iceberg lettuce, shredded
1 large beefsteak tomato, chopped
1 avocado, chopped
2 limes, cut into wedges
1/2 cup sour cream
Hot sauce, to serve
Preparation
In a large cast-iron or stainless skillet over medium-high, heat the oil until it shimmers. Add the beef and press it into one even layer. Sprinkle evenly with salt and onion, and cook, undisturbed, until the beef is deeply browned on the bottom and still slightly pink on top, and the onions have wilted, 5 to 7 minutes. If there is an excess of fat in the pan at this point, tip the skillet and use a spoon to discard it.
Sprinkle over the cumin, oregano, chili powder and garlic. Using a wooden spoon, break the meat into small crumbles and stir. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spices are aromatic and the meat has cooked through, about 2 minutes.
Add the beans and reserved bean liquid, and use the spoon to scrape up any browned bits. Simmer until mostly reduced, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, taste and add more salt if needed.
Arrange some corn chips evenly across the bottom of four serving plates. Evenly divide the meat mixture, cheese, lettuce, tomato and avocado on top of the chips. Squeeze lime juice over the top and lightly sprinkle with salt. Top each salad with a handful of crushed corn chips, a big dollop of sour cream, and extra cheese. Serve right away with hot sauce alongside.
CRISPY POTATO TACOS
This is from Hetty Lui McKinnon in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. This recipe begins, "Potato tacos, or tacos de papa, as they are known in Mexico, make the perfect meal for those times when you find yourself with an excess of potatoes and a package of tortillas on hand. Tortillas are an endlessly versatile pantry item. In this recipe, adapted from “Tenderheart” by Hetty Lui McKinnon (Alfred A. Knopf, 2023), they are stuffed with potato and cheese for a deeply satisfying meal or light snack. Cooking the potatoes whole, skin intact, prevents them from absorbing too much water, and the skin also adds a nice texture to the filling. Shortcuts are always available: If you’ve got leftover mashed potatoes, you can use them and skip the first step."
Time: 1-1/4 hours; Yield: 4 servings
This was featured in "4 Easy Dishes That Embrace Everyday Vegetables", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1024397-crispy-potato-tacos.
Ingredients
For the Tacos
Sea salt
1-1/2 pounds potatoes (any variety), scrubbed and cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
1-1/2 cups grated Cheddar
Handful of cilantro, leaves and stems finely chopped
1 small garlic clove, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
16 to 18 corn tortillas
Neutral oil, as needed
Any combination of sliced lettuce or cabbage, very finely sliced red onion or sour cream (all optional), for serving
For the Spicy Red Salsa
3 tomatoes (about 1 pound), chopped
1/2 red onion, roughly chopped
Small handful of cilantro, leaves and stems roughly chopped
1 fresh serrano or Fresno chile (seeded, if you prefer less spice)
1 garlic clove, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Sea salt
3/4 cup vegetable stock
Preparation
Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender. (Check them by inserting a fork or knife into the largest potato piece. If it goes in and out easily, the potato is ready.) Drain and allow to cool for a few minutes.
Make the spicy red salsa: Place tomatoes, onion, cilantro, chile, garlic, cumin, oregano, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt into a blender or food processor and blitz until completely smooth. Pour the purée into a saucepan, add the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until darker in color and slightly thickened, while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
Place the cooled potatoes in a bowl and roughly mash them. (It does not have to be smooth; a chunky texture is great.) Add the Cheddar, cilantro, garlic, cumin, paprika and 1 teaspoon sea salt and mix to combine.
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and, working in batches, add the corn tortillas and heat until soft and pliable. Remove from the pan and cover the tortillas with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm. Fill each warmed tortilla with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture, then fold in half and press down lightly.
In the same skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan and warm over medium-high heat. Place three or four tacos in the oil, pressing down lightly with a spatula so that the edges are in the oil, and fry for 1 to 2 minutes, until golden and crispy. Flip them over and repeat on the other side. Repeat with the remaining tacos.
Serve the tacos with the spicy red salsa and any of the optional serving suggestions. (The potatoes can be cooked and mashed 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The salsa can be made 2 days ahead and kept in the fridge. For freezing info, see Tip.)
Tip
You can freeze these assembled tacos by wrapping them tightly and storing in a freezer bag or airtight container. To cook, there is no need to thaw; you can fry them straight from frozen.
STEAK TACO SALAD
This is from Tricia Manzanero Studeman on Southern Living's site. The recipe begins, "Who doesn’t love a good taco salad? It’s everything you love about taco night, but less assembly!
"Here, we sneak some classic Tex-Mex flavor from store-bought seasoning packets—they give the grilled flank steak a savory, cumin-scented punch. Piled high with grilled corn, tomatoes, creamy avocado, shredded cheese, and crumbled tortilla chips, this hearty main dish salad will make any weeknight dinner a fiesta."
First off, here are DIY Pickled Onions.
Microwave 1/2 cup each vinegar and water in a heatproof jar for 3 minutes. Stir in 1 tsp. sugar, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1 sliced red onion. Let stand 20 minutes.."
Active Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/steak-taco-salad-7556399.
Ingredients
1 (8-oz.) container sour cream
2/3 cup smooth mild salsa
1/2 cup plus 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro, divided, plus more for garnish
3 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1 (1-oz.) envelope taco seasoning mix, divided
2 Tbsp. canola oil
3 ears (about 1 lb. total) fresh yellow corn
1 (1-1/2-lb.) top sirloin steak (1 to 1-1/2 inches thick)
1 (5-oz.) pkg. spring mix salad greens (about 7 cups)
1 (7-oz.) pkg. shredded Mexican 3-cheese blend (about 1-3/4 cups)
1-1/2 cups roughly crushed tortilla chips
1-1/2 cups diced plum tomatoes (from 3 medium tomatoes)
1-1/2 cups thinly sliced pickled red onions (from 1 [16-oz.] jar)
2 medium avocados, chopped
Directions
Whisk together sour cream, salsa, 1 tablespoon of the cilantro, 1-1/2 teaspoons of the salt, and 1-1/2 teaspoons of the taco seasoning mix until smooth; set dressing aside.
Preheat grill to high (450°F to 500°F). Whisk together oil and remaining taco seasoning mix in a small bowl. Brush corn with 1-1/2 teaspoons oil mixture; set remaining oil mixture aside. Pat steak dry using paper towels; sprinkle evenly with remaining 1-1/2 teaspoons salt.
Place corn and steak on oiled grates. Grill corn, covered, until slightly charred and tender, 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. Grill steak, covered, until a thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 135°F to 145°F (medium), 8 to 11 minutes, or to desired degree of doneness, brushing both sides with reserved oil mixture halfway through grill time. Transfer steak to a cutting board. Cover with aluminum foil, and let rest 10 minutes.
When corn is cool enough to handle, cut kernels from cobs. Thinly slice steak against the grain; cut slices into 1-inch pieces. Divide lettuce and remaining 1/2 cup cilantro among 4 bowls. Top with steak, corn, cheese, chips, tomatoes, onions, and avocados. Drizzle as desired with dressing. Garnish with cilantro, and serve with remaining dressing.
CHEESY NACHO WALKING TACO BOWLS
This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Whether you enjoy these Cheesy Nacho Walking Taco Bowls at the table or on the go, with only 20 minutes of prep time needed, this simple meal is sure to make it to your list of go-to recipes. Seasoned ground beef and crushed up nacho-flavored tortilla chips punch up the flavor while Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls bring taste and convenience to this walking taco recipe. Just fill it up and go."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Serves: 8
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/cheesy-nacho-walking-taco-bowls.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)
2/3 cup water
1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix
1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ Chopped Green Chiles
1 package (8 count) Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package
1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded 3 Pepper Cheese Blend (4 oz)
1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
3 cups nacho cheese tortilla chips, coarsely crushed
1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Mild Taco Sauce
1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Crema Mexicana
Preparation
In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in water, taco seasoning mix and green chiles; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
Divide warmed beef mixture among heated tortilla bowls. Top with cheese, lettuce, tortilla chips, tomatoes, taco sauce and sour cream.
Expert Tips
Want a little more heat? Top your walking taco bowls with Old El Paso™ Medium Taco Sauce.
Try Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend to replace Shredded 3 Pepper Cheese Blend for a different flavor twist.
Try topping with more fresh toppings like chopped avocados or green onions.
BIRRIA TACOS
This is from Claudette Zepeda at Food & Wine. For this recipe, Claudette wrote, "A combination of two meats creates the best balance of tender texture (from the chuck roast) and succulence (from the short ribs). These birria tacos get slow-cooked flavor from the adobo sauce."
Active Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 8 hours 55 minutes; Yield: 16
To view this online, go to https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/birria-tacos.
Ingredients
1 (2-pound) boneless chuck roast (about 2 1/4 inches thick)
2 pounds English-cut beef short ribs (about 3 ribs)
2 tablespoons plus 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste
Adobo
8 cups water
1 cup finely chopped white onion, rinsed
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
Canola oil, for greasing
32 (6-inch) fresh corn tortillas or 16 packaged corn tortillas
Lime wedges, for serving
Directions
Sprinkle chuck roast and short ribs all over with 2 tablespoons salt. Combine roast, ribs, and adobo in a large nonreactive bowl; toss to coat. Cover and chill at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 300°F. Transfer adobo mixture to a large (9 1/2-quart) Dutch oven; add 8 cups water. Bring to a simmer, uncovered, over medium, stirring occasionally. Cover with lid, and place in preheated oven. Bake until meat is fork- tender, about 4 hours.
Remove chuck roast and short ribs from braising broth, and transfer to a large bowl; cover with aluminum foil to keep warm. Return broth in Dutch oven to heat over medium, and cook, uncovered, skimming off fat as needed, until reduced to about 8 cups, 15 to 20 minutes. Season broth with salt to taste. Shred meat; discard bones. Toss meat with 1-1/2 cups of the broth.
Stir together onion, cilantro, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl; set aside.
Heat a large nonstick electric griddle to 400°F or a large (12-inch) cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Using a paper towel dipped in canola oil, lightly grease griddle. If using fresh tortillas, stack 2 tortillas, and use tongs to dip them together into adobo broth. (If using packaged tortillas, dip 1 tortilla per taco.) Place stacked tortillas on griddle; top with 1/4 cup meat. Repeat with as many tortilla stacks as will comfortably fit on griddle. Cook until bottom tortilla is lightly browned and crispy, 1 to 2 minutes. Fold tacos in half, gently pressing with a spatula. Transfer to a serving plate. Repeat process with oil, adobo broth, remaining tortillas, and remaining meat.
Serve tacos hot with onion-cilantro mixture, lime wedges, and remaining adobo broth for dipping or sipping.
Make Ahead
Adobo can be made up to 3 days ahead. Meat can be braised up to 2 days in advance and reheated in broth before shredding meat and reducing broth.
PORK & PINEAPPLE TACOS
This is from EatingWell (originally from Diabetic Living Magazine, Summer 2020), and begins, "Plan ahead so you can use your slow cooker to prepare the pulled pork for these tacos. This recipe is a better-for-you twist on the classic tacos al pastor. Pork loin is a lean cut that's a healthier option than traditional pork shoulder, which has more fat."
Active: 30 minutes; Total Time: 7 hours 30 minutes; Makes 6 servings; Serving Size: 2 tacos (2 tortillas + about 1/2 cup pork + 1/3 cup cabbage + 1/3 cup salad)
To view this online, go to https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/280196/pork-pineapple-tacos/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon packed light brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
1 (2 pound) pork loin roast, trimmed
1/3 cup apple juice
1/2 cup lime juice
2 cups finely diced fresh pineapple (about 1/2 small pineapple)
1 cup finely diced seeded cucumber
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
12 6-inch corn tortillas, warmed
2 cups shredded red cabbage
Directions
Step 1
Combine chili powder, paprika, brown sugar, 1/2 tsp. salt, garlic powder, and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 2
Place pork in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork. Pour apple juice around the pork. Cover and cook on Low until the pork is fork-tender, 6 to 7 hours.
Step 3
Meanwhile, combine lime juice and the remaining 1/4 tsp. salt in a medium bowl. Add pineapple, cucumber, and onion; toss to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4
Skim off visible fat from the juices in the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the meat. Stir in vinegar.
Step 5
To assemble tacos: Place a generous 1/4 cup pulled pork on each tortilla and add a drizzle of the cooking liquid. Top with about 2 1/2 Tbsp. shredded cabbage and about 3 Tbsp. of the pineapple salsa.
Tips
Equipment: 5- to 6-qt. slow cooker
To make ahead: Prepare spice rub (Step 1) up to 24 hours ahead. Refrigerate salsa (Step 3) for up to 1 day.
Monday, September 25, 2023
Double-Post Monday
Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Beef Empanadas and Melt-in-Your-Mouth Meat Loaf. Enjoy!
STEALTH HEALTH MAC AND CHEESE
This was in the September/October 2016 issure of Vegetarian Times, page 46. It begins, "Kids will never guess just how loaded with good-for-them vegetables this pasta favorite is. The 'cream sauce' is actually puréed butternut squash, and finely grated carrot and zucchini melt into the casserole as it cooks. Serve with a tossed salad." Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/stealth-health-mac-and-cheese-recipe/.
Ingredients
1 lb. peeled, cubed butternut squash
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
4 oz. whole-wheat macaroni
1-1/2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery (3 ribs)
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 large carrot, finely grated (3/4 cup)
1 large zucchini, finely grated (3/4 cup)
1/4 cup jarred roasted red pepper, drained and chopped, optional
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350˚F. Coat 6- x 6-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add butternut squash, and boil 20 to 25 minutes, or until very tender. Remove to large bowl with slotted spoon. Mash with potato masher, and stir in 1/4 cup cheese. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and set aside.
Cook macaroni in same pot of boiling water 2 minutes fewer than recommended time. Drain, and run under cold water in colander.
Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir into mashed butternut squash purée. Add carrot, zucchini, roasted red pepper, if using, and pasta, and stir until mixture is coated with squash purée. Spread 1/3 pasta mixture in prepared baking dish, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering pasta and cheese twice, ending with a final sprinkling of cheese. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until top is crisp and brown, and casserole is bubbling hot.
BEEF EMPANADAS
This is from Angela Dimayuga in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. Angela wrote, "Filipinos take snacking seriously, so much so that we devote an entire meal to it: merienda, which may take place midmorning or midafternoon, if not both. Empanadas are a great treat for this in-between time, but also keep well at room temperature — the grace of food built for a warm climate — so you can graze all day. (My family used to buy these by the tray for parties, but it’s nice to make your own and store them in the freezer for later.) In these, a ground-beef filling is tucked inside sturdy but flaky dough, with raisins added early in the cooking to plump with the beef juices. There are variations on empanadas all over Latin America; ours rely on the potency of onion and garlic, and exploit it to the hilt."
Yield: 40 empanadas; Time: 2 hours
This was featured in "Angela Dimayuga’s 10 Essential Filipino Recipes", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020490-beef-empanadas.
Ingredients
For the empanada dough:
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), diced
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2/3 cup ice water
For the filling:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
1/2 large green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
1/2 large red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1/2 medium russet potato, peeled and cut into 1-centimeter cubes (about 1/2 cup)
1/4 cup raisins
3/4 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 cup chicken stock
1 (48-ounce) bottle neutral oil, such as canola, for frying
Preparation
Prepare the empanada dough: In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In a large bowl, combine the flour and 1 tablespoon salt, and mix well. Add the butter and incorporate it into the flour using your hands or a food processor. Combine until mixture is sandy. Combine the egg mixture, vinegar and 2/3 cup ice water, whisking to break up the egg. Add egg mixture to flour mixture, and beat with a fork to bring dough together.
Sprinkle a light layer of flour over a work surface. Place the dough on top. Bring dough together by pressing and folding dough onto itself a few times with the palms of your hands. Being careful not to overwork, split dough in half and form into two equal logs about the thickness of a small sausage, 1 1/2- to 2-inches thick. Wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
While the dough rests, prepare the filling: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high and bring to a shimmer. Add the tomato paste and toast, stirring frequently, until darkened and caramelized, about 3 minutes. Add the onion, bell peppers, garlic, salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the potato and raisins, and cook, stirring, until mixture starts to caramelize, 8 to 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the beef, increase the temperature to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is cooked through, about 10 minutes. Stir in oyster sauce and soy sauce until coated, then stir in chicken stock. (Mixture should be glossy but not overtly wet; cook for another 5 minutes or so to reduce liquid, if need be.) Transfer to a sheet pan, dispersing in a thin layer, and refrigerate until chilled, at least 20 minutes.
Fill a small bowl with some cool water for sealing your empanadas, and another small bowl with flour for dusting. Working with one log at a time, remove dough from fridge. Cut each log in half crosswise, then cut each half crosswise into 10 equal pieces, which will be the shape of thick coins. Using a bit of flour, dust your work surface. Round each coin slightly using your thumb and forefinger and on your surface with your hands press each coin lightly to coax it into a flat round shape. Switch to a rolling pin and roll each piece of empanada dough into a 4-1/2-inch circle. You can lightly dust and stack your circles off to the side or transfer them to a parchment lined baking sheet and chill until you are ready to assemble (they are easier to work with when kept cool). Repeat with remaining log. When you have all your pieces rolled out, you are ready to assemble your empanadas. Place about 1-1/2 tablespoons of the meat filling in the center of each circle, leaving at least a 1/2-inch border. Using a brush or your finger, wet the edges of the dough with water and fold the crust over the filling, forming half-moon empanada shapes, sealing out as much air as possible. Crimp the edges of the empanada with the tines of a fork to seal.
In a large heavy Dutch oven or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high. Heat oil to 365 degrees. Working in batches so as not to crowd the pan, maintaining an even heat, fry the empanadas, turning frequently, until they start to bob, 4 to 5 minutes. (They should be crisp and golden brown, the pastry should be cooked through and the meat should be warmed through.) Transfer to a paper-towel lined baking sheet and fry remaining empanadas. Serve warm.
MUSTARD ROAST BEEF
Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
Book Title: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mustard-roast-beef.
Ingredients
1/4 cup apricot preserves
2-4 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
2-3 teaspoons reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon crushed caraway seeds
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon crushed black, or mixed, peppercorns
1 boneless beef sirloin tip roast, fat trimmed (about 2 pounds)
Directions
Mix all ingredients except beef in medium bowl. Spread on all surfaces of meat. Place meat on rack in roasting pan.
Roast at 350 degrees F. until meat thermometer registers 140 degrees (medium), or 160 degrees (well done), 30 to 45 minutes.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 171; Fat: 5.5 g; Saturated Fat: 2.1 g; Sodium: 118 mg; Cholesterol: 60.3 mg; Protein: 20.7 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Fruit, 3 Meat
CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
This comes from Southern Living, and begins, "Give your traditional chicken casserole a break and serve this bright and lively chicken spaghetti. You only need a Dutch oven and a 9-x-13 baking dish to create this delicious meal, meaning there is less clean-up afterwards. Cook and shred your chicken in advance to save time."
Active Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes; Serves: 10
To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/easy-chicken-spaghetti.
Ingredients
6 cups unsalted chicken stock
1 (14-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken breast, skin removed
3 (7-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, skin removed
12 ounces uncooked spaghetti
1 (5-oz.) can evaporated milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lower-sodium Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
1 1/2 cups chopped red bell pepper (about 1 large pepper)
2 cups chopped tomatoes (about 3 medium tomatoes)
4 ounces sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring stock to a boil in a Dutch oven over high. Add chicken to stock. Cover; reduce heat to medium. Cook until a thermometer inserted in thickest piece of chicken registers 160°F, about 25 minutes. Remove chicken; let stand until ready to use. (Inner temperature of chicken will rise as it stands.)
Return stock to a boil over high. Add pasta to Dutch oven, and cook until just tender, about 9 minutes. Transfer pasta to a medium bowl (reserving stock). Return stock to a boil over high; boil until liquid is reduced to about 2-1/2 cups, about 1 minute. Whisk together evaporated milk and flour in a small bowl. Stir into stock; boil until slightly thickened, 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and salt. Pour stock mixture over pasta.
Return Dutch oven to medium-high heat. Add butter, onion, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring often, until tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat; add pasta mixture back to Dutch oven. Shred chicken, discarding bones. (You should have about 4 1⁄2 cups meat.) Add chicken and tomatoes to Dutch oven; toss to coat. Pour mixture into a 13- x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with cheese. Lightly coat aluminum foil with cooking spray. Cover with foil; bake until cheese is melted, 25 to 30 minutes.
Chef's Notes
You don't have to be a food stylist to create a casserole that looks as good as it tastes. Instead of pouring the pasta mixture from the pot into the baking dish, use tongs and a large spoon to twirl the noodles into nests, as shown below.
MELT-IN-YOUR-MOUTH MEAT LOAF
This is from Suzanne Codner (from Starbuck, Minnesota), on the Taste of Home website. Suzanne wrote, "When my husband and I were first married, he refused to eat meat loaf because he said it was bland and dry. Then I prepared this version, and it became his favorite meal." Sometimes, all it takes is the right recipe!
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 5 hours 15 minutes + standing time; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/melt-in-your-mouth-meat-loaf/.
Ingredients
2 large eggs
3/4 cup 2% milk
2/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
2 teaspoons dried minced onion
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions
Cut two 25x3-in. strips of heavy-duty foil; crisscross so they resemble an X. Place strips on bottom and up sides of a 5-qt. slow cooker. Coat strips with cooking spray.
Combine the first 6 ingredients. Crumble beef over mixture and mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into a round loaf; place in center of strips in slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low 5-6 hours or until a thermometer reads at least 160°.
In a small bowl, whisk ketchup, brown sugar, mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Spoon over meat loaf. Cook until heated through, about 15 minutes longer. Using foil strips as handles, remove meat loaf to a platter. Let stand 10-15 minutes before slicing.
BLUEBERRY-APPLE SLUSHES
This is from the August 2013 issue of Heart Insight, page 23. (This is the magazine for the American Heart Association.)
This recipe begins, "Refreshing and good for you, this fruit treat comes together in a flash and provides fiber from the apple and antioxidants from the deeply colored blueberries." Serves 4; 1 cup per serving
I was unable to find a link online for this, but did want to give a head's up on where I got this.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (no thawing necessary)
2 cups ice
1 large apple (about 8 ounces), any variety, cut into chunks (peel left on)
2/3 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup fresh blueberries (optional)
Directions
In a blender, process the ingredients except the 1/4 cup blueberries until smooth. Serve garnished with the remaining blueberries.
STEALTH HEALTH MAC AND CHEESE
This was in the September/October 2016 issure of Vegetarian Times, page 46. It begins, "Kids will never guess just how loaded with good-for-them vegetables this pasta favorite is. The 'cream sauce' is actually puréed butternut squash, and finely grated carrot and zucchini melt into the casserole as it cooks. Serve with a tossed salad." Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/stealth-health-mac-and-cheese-recipe/.
Ingredients
1 lb. peeled, cubed butternut squash
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
4 oz. whole-wheat macaroni
1-1/2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery (3 ribs)
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 large carrot, finely grated (3/4 cup)
1 large zucchini, finely grated (3/4 cup)
1/4 cup jarred roasted red pepper, drained and chopped, optional
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350˚F. Coat 6- x 6-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add butternut squash, and boil 20 to 25 minutes, or until very tender. Remove to large bowl with slotted spoon. Mash with potato masher, and stir in 1/4 cup cheese. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and set aside.
Cook macaroni in same pot of boiling water 2 minutes fewer than recommended time. Drain, and run under cold water in colander.
Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir into mashed butternut squash purée. Add carrot, zucchini, roasted red pepper, if using, and pasta, and stir until mixture is coated with squash purée. Spread 1/3 pasta mixture in prepared baking dish, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering pasta and cheese twice, ending with a final sprinkling of cheese. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until top is crisp and brown, and casserole is bubbling hot.
BEEF EMPANADAS
This is from Angela Dimayuga in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. Angela wrote, "Filipinos take snacking seriously, so much so that we devote an entire meal to it: merienda, which may take place midmorning or midafternoon, if not both. Empanadas are a great treat for this in-between time, but also keep well at room temperature — the grace of food built for a warm climate — so you can graze all day. (My family used to buy these by the tray for parties, but it’s nice to make your own and store them in the freezer for later.) In these, a ground-beef filling is tucked inside sturdy but flaky dough, with raisins added early in the cooking to plump with the beef juices. There are variations on empanadas all over Latin America; ours rely on the potency of onion and garlic, and exploit it to the hilt."
Yield: 40 empanadas; Time: 2 hours
This was featured in "Angela Dimayuga’s 10 Essential Filipino Recipes", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020490-beef-empanadas.
Ingredients
For the empanada dough:
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), diced
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2/3 cup ice water
For the filling:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
1/2 large green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
1/2 large red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1/2 medium russet potato, peeled and cut into 1-centimeter cubes (about 1/2 cup)
1/4 cup raisins
3/4 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 cup chicken stock
1 (48-ounce) bottle neutral oil, such as canola, for frying
Preparation
Prepare the empanada dough: In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In a large bowl, combine the flour and 1 tablespoon salt, and mix well. Add the butter and incorporate it into the flour using your hands or a food processor. Combine until mixture is sandy. Combine the egg mixture, vinegar and 2/3 cup ice water, whisking to break up the egg. Add egg mixture to flour mixture, and beat with a fork to bring dough together.
Sprinkle a light layer of flour over a work surface. Place the dough on top. Bring dough together by pressing and folding dough onto itself a few times with the palms of your hands. Being careful not to overwork, split dough in half and form into two equal logs about the thickness of a small sausage, 1 1/2- to 2-inches thick. Wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
While the dough rests, prepare the filling: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high and bring to a shimmer. Add the tomato paste and toast, stirring frequently, until darkened and caramelized, about 3 minutes. Add the onion, bell peppers, garlic, salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the potato and raisins, and cook, stirring, until mixture starts to caramelize, 8 to 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the beef, increase the temperature to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is cooked through, about 10 minutes. Stir in oyster sauce and soy sauce until coated, then stir in chicken stock. (Mixture should be glossy but not overtly wet; cook for another 5 minutes or so to reduce liquid, if need be.) Transfer to a sheet pan, dispersing in a thin layer, and refrigerate until chilled, at least 20 minutes.
Fill a small bowl with some cool water for sealing your empanadas, and another small bowl with flour for dusting. Working with one log at a time, remove dough from fridge. Cut each log in half crosswise, then cut each half crosswise into 10 equal pieces, which will be the shape of thick coins. Using a bit of flour, dust your work surface. Round each coin slightly using your thumb and forefinger and on your surface with your hands press each coin lightly to coax it into a flat round shape. Switch to a rolling pin and roll each piece of empanada dough into a 4-1/2-inch circle. You can lightly dust and stack your circles off to the side or transfer them to a parchment lined baking sheet and chill until you are ready to assemble (they are easier to work with when kept cool). Repeat with remaining log. When you have all your pieces rolled out, you are ready to assemble your empanadas. Place about 1-1/2 tablespoons of the meat filling in the center of each circle, leaving at least a 1/2-inch border. Using a brush or your finger, wet the edges of the dough with water and fold the crust over the filling, forming half-moon empanada shapes, sealing out as much air as possible. Crimp the edges of the empanada with the tines of a fork to seal.
In a large heavy Dutch oven or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high. Heat oil to 365 degrees. Working in batches so as not to crowd the pan, maintaining an even heat, fry the empanadas, turning frequently, until they start to bob, 4 to 5 minutes. (They should be crisp and golden brown, the pastry should be cooked through and the meat should be warmed through.) Transfer to a paper-towel lined baking sheet and fry remaining empanadas. Serve warm.
MUSTARD ROAST BEEF
Recipe Yield: Yield: 8 servings
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
Book Title: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mustard-roast-beef.
Ingredients
1/4 cup apricot preserves
2-4 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
2-3 teaspoons reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon crushed caraway seeds
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon crushed black, or mixed, peppercorns
1 boneless beef sirloin tip roast, fat trimmed (about 2 pounds)
Directions
Mix all ingredients except beef in medium bowl. Spread on all surfaces of meat. Place meat on rack in roasting pan.
Roast at 350 degrees F. until meat thermometer registers 140 degrees (medium), or 160 degrees (well done), 30 to 45 minutes.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 171; Fat: 5.5 g; Saturated Fat: 2.1 g; Sodium: 118 mg; Cholesterol: 60.3 mg; Protein: 20.7 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Fruit, 3 Meat
CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
This comes from Southern Living, and begins, "Give your traditional chicken casserole a break and serve this bright and lively chicken spaghetti. You only need a Dutch oven and a 9-x-13 baking dish to create this delicious meal, meaning there is less clean-up afterwards. Cook and shred your chicken in advance to save time."
Active Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes; Serves: 10
To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/easy-chicken-spaghetti.
Ingredients
6 cups unsalted chicken stock
1 (14-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken breast, skin removed
3 (7-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, skin removed
12 ounces uncooked spaghetti
1 (5-oz.) can evaporated milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lower-sodium Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
1 1/2 cups chopped red bell pepper (about 1 large pepper)
2 cups chopped tomatoes (about 3 medium tomatoes)
4 ounces sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring stock to a boil in a Dutch oven over high. Add chicken to stock. Cover; reduce heat to medium. Cook until a thermometer inserted in thickest piece of chicken registers 160°F, about 25 minutes. Remove chicken; let stand until ready to use. (Inner temperature of chicken will rise as it stands.)
Return stock to a boil over high. Add pasta to Dutch oven, and cook until just tender, about 9 minutes. Transfer pasta to a medium bowl (reserving stock). Return stock to a boil over high; boil until liquid is reduced to about 2-1/2 cups, about 1 minute. Whisk together evaporated milk and flour in a small bowl. Stir into stock; boil until slightly thickened, 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and salt. Pour stock mixture over pasta.
Return Dutch oven to medium-high heat. Add butter, onion, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring often, until tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat; add pasta mixture back to Dutch oven. Shred chicken, discarding bones. (You should have about 4 1⁄2 cups meat.) Add chicken and tomatoes to Dutch oven; toss to coat. Pour mixture into a 13- x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with cheese. Lightly coat aluminum foil with cooking spray. Cover with foil; bake until cheese is melted, 25 to 30 minutes.
Chef's Notes
You don't have to be a food stylist to create a casserole that looks as good as it tastes. Instead of pouring the pasta mixture from the pot into the baking dish, use tongs and a large spoon to twirl the noodles into nests, as shown below.
MELT-IN-YOUR-MOUTH MEAT LOAF
This is from Suzanne Codner (from Starbuck, Minnesota), on the Taste of Home website. Suzanne wrote, "When my husband and I were first married, he refused to eat meat loaf because he said it was bland and dry. Then I prepared this version, and it became his favorite meal." Sometimes, all it takes is the right recipe!
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 5 hours 15 minutes + standing time; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/melt-in-your-mouth-meat-loaf/.
Ingredients
2 large eggs
3/4 cup 2% milk
2/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
2 teaspoons dried minced onion
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions
Cut two 25x3-in. strips of heavy-duty foil; crisscross so they resemble an X. Place strips on bottom and up sides of a 5-qt. slow cooker. Coat strips with cooking spray.
Combine the first 6 ingredients. Crumble beef over mixture and mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into a round loaf; place in center of strips in slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low 5-6 hours or until a thermometer reads at least 160°.
In a small bowl, whisk ketchup, brown sugar, mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Spoon over meat loaf. Cook until heated through, about 15 minutes longer. Using foil strips as handles, remove meat loaf to a platter. Let stand 10-15 minutes before slicing.
BLUEBERRY-APPLE SLUSHES
This is from the August 2013 issue of Heart Insight, page 23. (This is the magazine for the American Heart Association.)
This recipe begins, "Refreshing and good for you, this fruit treat comes together in a flash and provides fiber from the apple and antioxidants from the deeply colored blueberries." Serves 4; 1 cup per serving
I was unable to find a link online for this, but did want to give a head's up on where I got this.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (no thawing necessary)
2 cups ice
1 large apple (about 8 ounces), any variety, cut into chunks (peel left on)
2/3 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup fresh blueberries (optional)
Directions
In a blender, process the ingredients except the 1/4 cup blueberries until smooth. Serve garnished with the remaining blueberries.
Meatless Monday, Casserole Style
It's time for another Meatless Monday. Today's meatless post deals with the yumminess of casseroles.
For years, if someone mentioned Casseroles, the first thing to come to mind was a way to use up left-overs. While casseroles might be a good way to do that, they're so much more. They can be a great way to get a bunch of ingredients together in one yummy dish.
A brief anecdote: when my maternal grandparents were newly-weds, my grandfather invided his boss home for dinner. My grandmother had gotten rave reviews about her chicken casserole, to the point that whenever their church or any other group had a potluck dinner, people would request that she bring along her chicken casserole. It needed, among other ingredients, an entire chicken; no left-overs here!
So, for grandpa's boss, it was grandma's chicken casserole. Unfortunately, the boss made the mistake of thinking that the casserole was a left-overs dish, and stated, "If you knew your husband was bringing home the boss, you might have fixed something better than left-overs!"
To say that the comment was not kindly taken was an understatement. Grandma was off and running her mouth, informing him that she'd had to go out and buy a fresh chicken that morning for the casserole. (This was at a time when chicken was expensive enough that it was usually saved for Sunday dinner, or special occasions - like the boss coming for a meal.)
Fortunately, the boss apologized, tasted the casserole, and was impressed.
Grandma and Grandpa
Since this is a vegetarian blog, and since I don't have a copy of Grandma's chicken casserole, that recipe is not here to start off the week. However, check out the Cheesy Potato Casserole, the vegan Chili Cornbread Casserole, and the rest of today's offerings. Enjoy!
THREE SISTERS CASSEROLE
This was on the Vegetarian Times web site, and begins, "A Native American expression, 'three sisters' refers to the practice of growing beans, corn, and squash together. This filling casserole can be frozen for an upcoming party or made fresh for dinner. Serve with Pumpkin Seed Pesto." Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/three-sisters-casserole/.
Ingredients
Polenta topping
1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 Tbs. chili powder
3/4 tsp. salt
Filling
3 Tbs. olive oil, divided
1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)
1 large red or yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch dice (1 cup)
1 lb. kabocha squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (2 cups)
1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes with chiles
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. salt
1 15-oz. can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
Preparation
To make Polenta Topping: Whisk together cornmeal, chili powder, salt, and 4-1/2 cups water in double boiler, or in large metal bowl over barely simmering water. Cook 40 minutes, or until polenta is thick and stiff, stirring 3 or 4 times. Remove from heat.
To make Filling: Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat 2 Tbs. oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and cook 7 minutes, or until softened, stirring often. Add bell pepper, and cook 5 minutes more, stirring often.
Stir in squash, tomatoes, garlic, coriander, and cumin. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in 1/2 cup water and salt. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low, and simmer, partially covered, 10 to 15 minutes, or until squash is tender. Stir in beans and corn, and cook 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
Coat 8- x 11-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 2 cups polenta over bottom of prepared dish. Spoon squash mixture over polenta. Smooth remaining polenta (about 2-1/2 cups) over top.
Score casserole into 6 squares with knife. Brush top with remaining 1 Tbs. oil. Bake 30 minutes, or until heated through and top is lightly browned.
CREAMY CORN CASSEROLE
This was on the Vegetarian Times web site, and begins, "Sandy Finley’s grandmother, who hailed from a Midwest farm, taught her to make this creamy dish. It was a favorite in the early fall, when fresh corn was abundant. Finley recommends pairing the casserole with a spinach salad topped with sweet balsamic vinaigrette." Serves 4
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/creamy-corn-casserole/.
Ingredients
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk or soymilk
2 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
1 Tbs. margarine, melted
1 Tbs. sugar
2 15-oz. cans cream-style corn
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375F. Lightly coat 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray, and set aside.
Beat together eggs and milk; fold in breadcrumbs, margarine and sugar. Fold in corn. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour into prepared baking dish, and bake 35 to 40 minutes, or until firm and set. Serve.
SMOKED TOFU FARFALLE CASSEROLE
This was on the Vegetarian Times web site, and begins, "Here's a new twist on old-fashioned tuna noodle casserole." Serves 6
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/smoked-tofu-farfalle-casserole/.
Ingredients
4 tsp. olive oil
1 small yellow bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 1/2 cups frozen baby peas
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 Tbs.)
2 1/2 tsp. minced fresh thyme
8 oz. farfalle pasta (bows)
1 3/4 cups low-fat milk
3 Tbs. all-purpose flour
3 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (about 3/4 cup)
6 oz. smoked tofu, diced
3 Tbs. Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
Preparation
Preheat oven to 425F. Heat 1 tsp. oil in 6-qt. Dutch oven over medium heat. Add bell pepper, and cook, stirring often, 3 minutes. Stir in frozen peas, garlic and thyme, and cook, stirring often, 2 minutes more. Transfer to bowl and set aside.
Wipe out Dutch oven; fill with water, and bring to a boil. Add pasta, and cook about 4 minutes, or until just al dente. Drain and transfer to clean bowl. Drizzle with 2 tsp. olive oil, and toss to coat. Return Dutch oven to stove.
Heat 1 1/2 cups milk in Dutch oven over medium heat until almost simmering. Whisk together remaining 1/4 cup milk with flour in small bowl, then whisk into hot milk. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, 2 minutes, or until sauce thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat, and stir in cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add pasta, bell pepper mixture and tofu, and stir to combine.
Mix breadcrumbs with remaining 1 tsp. oil in small bowl; sprinkle over casserole. Bake uncovered, 20 minutes, or until golden. Serve hot.
CHILI CORNBREAD CASSEROLE
This is from Melanie Sorrentino on One Green Planet. Melanie wrote, "The only thing more delicious than golden cornbread dipped in chili is a cornbread casserole with chili filling! The hearty chili is made with rice, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and plenty of seasoning. As is, this recipe is ridiculously easy and minimalist. Add some sautéed green peppers and onions into the chili mix if you want to amp it up a bit."
To view this online, go to https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/chili-cornbread-casserole/.
Ingredients
1/2 cup dry rice
1 14-ounce can kidney beans
1/2 of 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
A sprinkle of poultry seasonings
Onion and garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 of 1 15-ounce box of cornbread mix
1/2 cup almond milk
1 4.5-ounce can of green chilis (optional)
Preparation
Add a 1/2 cup of dry rice to a pot along with about 3/4 cup of water. As soon as the water starts boiling, put a lid on it, and turned the temperature down to the second lowest on the stove. Allow to simmer with the lid on for about 15 minutes.
Add one can of beans and half of the large can of crushed tomatoes. The goal is simply to coat the rice and beans without making it soupy.
Added 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, a sprinkle of poultry seasonings, onion and garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes.
Pour into a casserole dish.
Add half of the cornbread mix into a bowl and slowly add almond milk. Start with 1/3 cup almond milk, whisk it into the dry mix and then add a couple more splashes. If you'd like, add a small can of green chilis.
Pour cornbread batter on top and bake at 350°F for 35-45 minutes. Serve.
VEGGIE CHILI CORNBREAD CASSEROLE
This comes from Taylerand20 at Allrecipes. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Additional Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/270846/veggie-chili-cornbread-casserole/.
Ingredients
Chili:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon lime juice
Cornbread:
1 1/2 cups milk
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 small jalapeno pepper, chopped
Garnish:
1 jalapeno pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute. Add onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Mix to combine and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and corn to the Dutch oven and stir to combine. Pour in broth and lime juice; stir to combine. Increase heat to high and bring chili to a boil, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered and stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Whisk milk and egg together in a large bowl until well combined.
Combine cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda together in a large bowl. Add milk mixture and whisk until smooth. Add melted butter and stir to combine. Add jalapeno and stir to incorporate into the cornbread batter.
Remove Dutch oven from the stove. Pour batter over the chili in the Dutch oven. Use a spatula to cover chili completely and smooth the top.
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish cornbread casserole with sliced jalapeno and cilantro.
CHEESY POTATO CASSEROLE
This recipe is by Cooking Light and posted on MyRecipes. It begins, "From Kimberly Holland, Associate Digital Editor. In Scottsboro, Alabama, Kimberly's grandfather is the cheesy potato casserole chef.Rather than using sodium-loaded canned soup, we made our own creamy sauce to update this dish."
Hands-on: 25 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour; Makes 10 servings (serving size: 3/4 cup)
To view this online, go to https://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/cheesy-potato-casserole.
Ingredients
2-1/2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 (32-ounce) bag frozen Southern-style hash brown potatoes
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1-2/3 cups 1% low-fat milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2/3 cup plain fat-free Greek yogurt
4 ounces 2% reduced-fat extra-sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded (about 1 cup)
Cooking spray
3 cups cornflakes
1-1/2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 5 minutes. Add potatoes; cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook 8 minutes or until potatoes begin to brown, stirring occasionally. Stir in salt and black pepper.
Combine milk and flour, stirring with a whisk. Add milk mixture to pan; cook 3 minutes or until thick and bubbly, stirring frequently. Remove pan from heat. Stir in yogurt and cheese. Spoon mixture into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
Place cornflakes in a medium bowl; drizzle with butter and remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle cornflakes over potato mixture. Bake at 350° for 35 minutes or until bubbly around the edges and topping is crisp.
For years, if someone mentioned Casseroles, the first thing to come to mind was a way to use up left-overs. While casseroles might be a good way to do that, they're so much more. They can be a great way to get a bunch of ingredients together in one yummy dish.
A brief anecdote: when my maternal grandparents were newly-weds, my grandfather invided his boss home for dinner. My grandmother had gotten rave reviews about her chicken casserole, to the point that whenever their church or any other group had a potluck dinner, people would request that she bring along her chicken casserole. It needed, among other ingredients, an entire chicken; no left-overs here!
So, for grandpa's boss, it was grandma's chicken casserole. Unfortunately, the boss made the mistake of thinking that the casserole was a left-overs dish, and stated, "If you knew your husband was bringing home the boss, you might have fixed something better than left-overs!"
To say that the comment was not kindly taken was an understatement. Grandma was off and running her mouth, informing him that she'd had to go out and buy a fresh chicken that morning for the casserole. (This was at a time when chicken was expensive enough that it was usually saved for Sunday dinner, or special occasions - like the boss coming for a meal.)
Fortunately, the boss apologized, tasted the casserole, and was impressed.
Grandma and Grandpa
Since this is a vegetarian blog, and since I don't have a copy of Grandma's chicken casserole, that recipe is not here to start off the week. However, check out the Cheesy Potato Casserole, the vegan Chili Cornbread Casserole, and the rest of today's offerings. Enjoy!
THREE SISTERS CASSEROLE
This was on the Vegetarian Times web site, and begins, "A Native American expression, 'three sisters' refers to the practice of growing beans, corn, and squash together. This filling casserole can be frozen for an upcoming party or made fresh for dinner. Serve with Pumpkin Seed Pesto." Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/three-sisters-casserole/.
Ingredients
Polenta topping
1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 Tbs. chili powder
3/4 tsp. salt
Filling
3 Tbs. olive oil, divided
1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)
1 large red or yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch dice (1 cup)
1 lb. kabocha squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (2 cups)
1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes with chiles
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. salt
1 15-oz. can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
Preparation
To make Polenta Topping: Whisk together cornmeal, chili powder, salt, and 4-1/2 cups water in double boiler, or in large metal bowl over barely simmering water. Cook 40 minutes, or until polenta is thick and stiff, stirring 3 or 4 times. Remove from heat.
To make Filling: Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat 2 Tbs. oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and cook 7 minutes, or until softened, stirring often. Add bell pepper, and cook 5 minutes more, stirring often.
Stir in squash, tomatoes, garlic, coriander, and cumin. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in 1/2 cup water and salt. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low, and simmer, partially covered, 10 to 15 minutes, or until squash is tender. Stir in beans and corn, and cook 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
Coat 8- x 11-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 2 cups polenta over bottom of prepared dish. Spoon squash mixture over polenta. Smooth remaining polenta (about 2-1/2 cups) over top.
Score casserole into 6 squares with knife. Brush top with remaining 1 Tbs. oil. Bake 30 minutes, or until heated through and top is lightly browned.
CREAMY CORN CASSEROLE
This was on the Vegetarian Times web site, and begins, "Sandy Finley’s grandmother, who hailed from a Midwest farm, taught her to make this creamy dish. It was a favorite in the early fall, when fresh corn was abundant. Finley recommends pairing the casserole with a spinach salad topped with sweet balsamic vinaigrette." Serves 4
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/creamy-corn-casserole/.
Ingredients
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk or soymilk
2 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
1 Tbs. margarine, melted
1 Tbs. sugar
2 15-oz. cans cream-style corn
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375F. Lightly coat 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray, and set aside.
Beat together eggs and milk; fold in breadcrumbs, margarine and sugar. Fold in corn. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour into prepared baking dish, and bake 35 to 40 minutes, or until firm and set. Serve.
SMOKED TOFU FARFALLE CASSEROLE
This was on the Vegetarian Times web site, and begins, "Here's a new twist on old-fashioned tuna noodle casserole." Serves 6
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/smoked-tofu-farfalle-casserole/.
Ingredients
4 tsp. olive oil
1 small yellow bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 1/2 cups frozen baby peas
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 Tbs.)
2 1/2 tsp. minced fresh thyme
8 oz. farfalle pasta (bows)
1 3/4 cups low-fat milk
3 Tbs. all-purpose flour
3 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (about 3/4 cup)
6 oz. smoked tofu, diced
3 Tbs. Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
Preparation
Preheat oven to 425F. Heat 1 tsp. oil in 6-qt. Dutch oven over medium heat. Add bell pepper, and cook, stirring often, 3 minutes. Stir in frozen peas, garlic and thyme, and cook, stirring often, 2 minutes more. Transfer to bowl and set aside.
Wipe out Dutch oven; fill with water, and bring to a boil. Add pasta, and cook about 4 minutes, or until just al dente. Drain and transfer to clean bowl. Drizzle with 2 tsp. olive oil, and toss to coat. Return Dutch oven to stove.
Heat 1 1/2 cups milk in Dutch oven over medium heat until almost simmering. Whisk together remaining 1/4 cup milk with flour in small bowl, then whisk into hot milk. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, 2 minutes, or until sauce thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat, and stir in cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add pasta, bell pepper mixture and tofu, and stir to combine.
Mix breadcrumbs with remaining 1 tsp. oil in small bowl; sprinkle over casserole. Bake uncovered, 20 minutes, or until golden. Serve hot.
CHILI CORNBREAD CASSEROLE
This is from Melanie Sorrentino on One Green Planet. Melanie wrote, "The only thing more delicious than golden cornbread dipped in chili is a cornbread casserole with chili filling! The hearty chili is made with rice, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and plenty of seasoning. As is, this recipe is ridiculously easy and minimalist. Add some sautéed green peppers and onions into the chili mix if you want to amp it up a bit."
To view this online, go to https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/chili-cornbread-casserole/.
Ingredients
1/2 cup dry rice
1 14-ounce can kidney beans
1/2 of 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
A sprinkle of poultry seasonings
Onion and garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 of 1 15-ounce box of cornbread mix
1/2 cup almond milk
1 4.5-ounce can of green chilis (optional)
Preparation
Add a 1/2 cup of dry rice to a pot along with about 3/4 cup of water. As soon as the water starts boiling, put a lid on it, and turned the temperature down to the second lowest on the stove. Allow to simmer with the lid on for about 15 minutes.
Add one can of beans and half of the large can of crushed tomatoes. The goal is simply to coat the rice and beans without making it soupy.
Added 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, a sprinkle of poultry seasonings, onion and garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes.
Pour into a casserole dish.
Add half of the cornbread mix into a bowl and slowly add almond milk. Start with 1/3 cup almond milk, whisk it into the dry mix and then add a couple more splashes. If you'd like, add a small can of green chilis.
Pour cornbread batter on top and bake at 350°F for 35-45 minutes. Serve.
VEGGIE CHILI CORNBREAD CASSEROLE
This comes from Taylerand20 at Allrecipes. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Additional Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/270846/veggie-chili-cornbread-casserole/.
Ingredients
Chili:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon lime juice
Cornbread:
1 1/2 cups milk
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 small jalapeno pepper, chopped
Garnish:
1 jalapeno pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute. Add onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Mix to combine and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and corn to the Dutch oven and stir to combine. Pour in broth and lime juice; stir to combine. Increase heat to high and bring chili to a boil, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered and stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Whisk milk and egg together in a large bowl until well combined.
Combine cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda together in a large bowl. Add milk mixture and whisk until smooth. Add melted butter and stir to combine. Add jalapeno and stir to incorporate into the cornbread batter.
Remove Dutch oven from the stove. Pour batter over the chili in the Dutch oven. Use a spatula to cover chili completely and smooth the top.
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish cornbread casserole with sliced jalapeno and cilantro.
CHEESY POTATO CASSEROLE
This recipe is by Cooking Light and posted on MyRecipes. It begins, "From Kimberly Holland, Associate Digital Editor. In Scottsboro, Alabama, Kimberly's grandfather is the cheesy potato casserole chef.Rather than using sodium-loaded canned soup, we made our own creamy sauce to update this dish."
Hands-on: 25 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour; Makes 10 servings (serving size: 3/4 cup)
To view this online, go to https://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/cheesy-potato-casserole.
Ingredients
2-1/2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 (32-ounce) bag frozen Southern-style hash brown potatoes
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1-2/3 cups 1% low-fat milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2/3 cup plain fat-free Greek yogurt
4 ounces 2% reduced-fat extra-sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded (about 1 cup)
Cooking spray
3 cups cornflakes
1-1/2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 5 minutes. Add potatoes; cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook 8 minutes or until potatoes begin to brown, stirring occasionally. Stir in salt and black pepper.
Combine milk and flour, stirring with a whisk. Add milk mixture to pan; cook 3 minutes or until thick and bubbly, stirring frequently. Remove pan from heat. Stir in yogurt and cheese. Spoon mixture into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
Place cornflakes in a medium bowl; drizzle with butter and remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle cornflakes over potato mixture. Bake at 350° for 35 minutes or until bubbly around the edges and topping is crisp.
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