Confessions of a Foodie

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Monday, May 24, 2021

Meatless Monday

If my calendar is right, it's Monday, time for another Meatless Monday. Today's vegetarian recipes include African-Style Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash Stew, Frozen Peanut Butter Cup Pie, and Ginger Tea. Enjoy!

NUTTY DARK BANANA BREAD

This is from tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “Crunchy walnuts and dark brown sugar make this banana bread moist and utterly sinful.”

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings: 2 loaves

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 large bananas

1 1/s cups sugar

1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons baking soda

4 large eggs

2/3 cup water

1 cup oil

3 1/2 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour

2 cups walnuts, chopped

Directions

Preheat oven to 350° F. Spray 2 loaf pans with non-stick baking spray (preferably the kind with flour in it).

Peel bananas and add to large mixing bowl. With mixer, cream bananas and add sugar and brown sugar, salt and soda, mixing well. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each. Add water and oil.

Slowly add flour, mixing well. When all flour is added, beat well. Stir in nuts.

Pour into prepared pans and bake at 350° F for 60-65 minutes, until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean and edges of loaves are brown.

Cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing.

GINGER TEA

This comes from Vegetarian Times (posted on MAY 9, 2017), and begins, “Ginger is Mother Nature’s protective cloak, shielding us from sickness on winter days. This tea is very spicy—if it tastes too strong, dilute it with more hot water and honey. Traditional advice is not to drink more than 2 cups of ginger tea a day unless you are using it as a treatment for a bad chest cold.”

2 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

12 thin slices fresh ginger, pounded with mortar or rolling pin

1 Tbs. honey

Preparation

Put ginger and 3 cups water in small saucepan, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 to 25 minutes.

Strain out ginger slices and discard or reserve for another use. Stir in honey, and serve hot. Tea can be reheated, if necessary.

GLAZED CHOCOLATE-AVOCADO CUPCAKES

This comes from Vegetarian Times (posted on MAY 9, 2017), and begins, “Avocado replaces the eggs and most of the oil creating a rich, chocolatey batter that's ultra moist.”

Makes 12 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Cupcakes

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp. baking powder

3/4 tsp. baking soda

3/4 tsp. salt

1 avocado, pitted and peeled

1 cup pure maple syrup

3/4 cup plain soymilk

1/3 cup canola oil

2 tsp. vanilla extract

Glaze

1/4 block soft silken tofu (from 14-oz. container), drained and patted dry

3 Tbs. pure maple syrup

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/8 tsp. salt

4 oz. semisweet vegan chocolate, melted

Preparation

To make Cupcakes:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in bowl. Purée avocado in food processor until smooth. Add maple syrup, soymilk, oil, and vanilla, and blend until creamy. Whisk avocado mixture into flour mixture.

Spoon batter into prepared cupcake cups. Bake 25 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out with some crumbs attached. Cool.

To make Glaze: Blend tofu, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt in food processor until smooth. Add chocolate to tofu mixture and blend until smooth. Transfer to bowl. Dip tops of Cupcakes into Glaze, pulling straight up from Glaze to form peaks.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 287; Carbohydrate Content: 44 g; Fat Content: 12.5 g; Fiber Content: 4 g; Protein Content: 4 g; Saturated Fat Content: 3 g; Sodium Content: 304 mg; Sugar Content: 24 g

AFRICAN-STYLE SWEET POTATO AND BUTTERNUT SQUASH STEW

This recipe comes from Publix.

Servings: 8; Total Time: 3 hours, 10 minutes; Active Time: 10 minutes

To view this recipe online, click here.

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes

1 can chickpeas (garbanzos), (15–16 oz), drained

1 (14.5-oz) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained

8 oz prediced bell pepper mix (1 1/2 cups)

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon chunky garlic paste

2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or stock)

1 package fresh (or frozen) prediced butternut squash (15–16 oz)

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Directions

Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Drain chickpeas. Place in slow cooker: sweet potatoes, chickpeas, tomatoes, bell peppers, seasoning, garlic paste, and broth; cover and cook on HIGH for 2 1/2–3 hours (or LOW for 4–6 hours) or until potatoes are tender.

Stir in squash during last 30 minutes of cook time. Chop cilantro and peanuts.

Remove 1 cup of liquid from stew and whisk with peanut butter until blended. Stir peanut butter mixture into stew. Serve topped with cilantro and peanuts.

FROZEN PEANUT BUTTER CUP PIE

This comes from Diana Rattry, Southern Cooking guide for The Spruce. Diana wrote, “This awesome frozen peanut butter cup pie is the perfect dessert or weekend treat for a hot summer day. The classic graham cracker pie shell and simple cream cheese and peanut butter filling take no more than 10 to 15 minutes to prepare; just mix, freeze, and enjoy!

“To make this even easier, use a store-bought deep-dish graham cracker pie shell. An oreo or chocolate cookie crust would be an excellent choice as well.

“Freeze the peanut butter cups to make chopping them much easier.”

Prep Time: 14 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Yield: 8 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Crust

1 3/4 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs

1/3 cup melted butter

1/4 cup brown sugar or granulated sugar

Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup sweetened condensed milk using a liquid measuring cup

3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

1/4 cup confectioners' sugar

1 tub (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed

1 cup chopped peanut butter cups, frozen for easier chopping, plus more for garnish if desired

Sweetened whipped cream or whipped topping, for garnish

Warm chocolate syrup or chocolate sauce, for garnish

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with melted butter and 1/4 cup of brown sugar or granulated sugar. Mix well and press firmly over the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Cover and refrigerate the crust to chill for at least 1 hour.

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and confectioners' sugar. Beat on medium speed of an electric mixer until smooth and well blended. Fold in the whipped topping until blended, and then fold in the chopped peanut butter cups.

Fill the chilled graham cracker pie shell with the peanut butter mixture.

Cover the pie tightly and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is firm.

Set the frozen pie out at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping and drizzle with warm chocolate sauce. Sprinkle with reserved chopped peanut butter cups, if desired.

Tips:

If possible, freeze the pie for several hours or overnight before serving.

Give the pie about 10 minutes at room temperature to soften slightly before slicing.

If desired, bake the crust in a preheated 400 F oven for 10 minutes. Cool completely and chill slightly before filling.

Make this peanut butter sauce to drizzle over the pie along with the chocolate syrup.

CAULIFLOWER CRUST PIZZA WITH PESTO AND TOMATOES

This comes from Ready Set Eat, and begins, “Cauliflower crust pizza recipe is topped with basil pesto, fresh mozzarella cheese and organic diced tomatoes for a 'low carb' pizza.”

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 75 minutes; Servings: 4; Number of ingredients: 8

To view this online (and to check out the site), go to https://www.readyseteat.com/recipes-Cauliflower-Crust-Pizza-with-Pesto-and-Tomatoes-8115.

Ingredients

PAM® Organic Olive Oil No-Stick Cooking Spray

6 cups fresh cauliflower florets (6 cups florets = about 1-1/2 pounds)

3 large egg whites, beaten

2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/3 cup refrigerated basil pesto

4 ounces sliced fresh mozzarella cheese, halved

1 can (14.5 oz each) Hunt's® Diced Tomatoes, drained well (or try Hunt's® Organic)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line 12-inch round pizza pan with parchment paper. Spray with cooking spray; set aside.

Place half of cauliflower in food processor bowl; pulse until mixture resembles ‘rice’. Repeat with remaining cauliflower. Place cauliflower 'rice' in large microwave-safe bowl; cover. Microwave on HIGH 3 to 5 minutes or until cauliflower is steamed. Carefully place on kitchen towel in single layer; cool 2 to 3 minutes. Twist towel to squeeze liquid from cauliflower (removing about 1 cup). Place drained cauliflower in medium bowl.

Add egg whites, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano and pepper to bowl; stir to combine. Spread mixture on pizza pan, pressing lightly to edge of pan with hands to resemble pizza crust. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Remove from oven. Spread pesto over crust; top with cheese and drained tomatoes. Bake 8 to 10 minutes more or until cheese is melted. Cut into 8 slices.

Tips:

Cauliflower florets (with little stem) work best for this recipe.

For gluten free preparation, confirm all recipe ingredients are gluten free by reading product labels each time you make this recipe.

Friday, May 21, 2021

Friday Recipes

It's time to get ready for another weekend. Today's offerings will help you through that weekend, and include Chicken Paprikash and Sweet Potato and Mustard Turkey Burgers. Enjoy!

HOME-STYLE GINGERBREAD

This was originally from about.com, which has changed to dotdash.com. I've checked around, and can't locate this recipe on any of their channels; if anyone happens to find it there, please let me know!

This recipe began, “This wonderful ginger and cinnamon-scented cake is sure to bring a smile to your face, and it's the perfect dessert for a cold winter weekend. Top this warm gingerbread with a generous dollop of fresh sweetened whipped cream and sprinkle with a little cinnamon.”

Ingredients

2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 cup molasses

3/4 cup hot water

1/2 cup butter, room temperature

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Grease & flour 9-inch square baking pan or spray with baking spray with flour. Heat oven to 325°. Combine all ingredients in mixing bowl; beat on low speed of electric mixer until ingredients are combined. Scrape sides of the bowl & increase mixer speed to medium; beat for about 3 minutes longer. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Cut into squares and serve with freshly whipped cream. To serve leftover gingerbread, warm slightly in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds.

This gingerbread freezes well: cut into squares and wrap individually. Thaw & warm in the microwave just before serving.

CHICKEN PAPRIKASH

This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sam wrote, “Spices lose their flavor over time but few as quickly as paprika, which starts out tasting of pepper and sunshine but deteriorates in but a few months to sawdust and bitterness. For this recipe, get some new at the market: sweet or hot Hungarian paprika is best, but the generic article isn’t terrible and the smoky Spanish varieties known as pimentón de La Vera would not be out of place either, lending a deep, woodsy aroma reminiscent of cooking over an open fire. It’s a dish that pairs beautifully with butter-slicked egg noodles.” Yield: Serves 4 - 6; Time: 1 hour.

This was featured in “The Fresher the Spice, the Better the Chicken Paprikash” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

3 to 4 pounds chicken thighs and drumsticks, or whole chicken legs

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon neutral oil, like canola

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large yellow or Spanish onion, peeled and diced

3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

3 tablespoons Hungarian paprika, sweet or hot, or a combination

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup canned crushed tomatoes or 1 large ripe tomato, chopped

1 cup chicken broth, homemade or, if not, low-sodium

1 pound egg noodles

3/4 cup sour cream

Preparation

Heat oven to 400. Season the chicken aggressively with salt and pepper. Heat the oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large, heavy, oven-safe sauté pan or Dutch oven set over high flame, until the butter is foaming. Sear the chicken in batches, skin-side down, until it is golden and crisp, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Then turn the chicken over, and repeat on the other side, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate to rest.

Pour off all but a tablespoon or 2 of the accumulated fat in the pot. Return the pot to the stove, over medium heat, and add the onion. Cook, stirring frequently with a spoon to scrape off any browned bits of chicken skin, until the onion has softened and gone translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add the garlic, and stir again, cooking it until it has softened, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Add the paprika and the flour, and stir well to combine, then cook until the mixture is fragrant and the taste of the flour has been cooked out, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.

Add tomatoes and broth, whisk until smooth and then nestle the chicken back in the pan, skin-side up. Slide the pan or pot into the oven, and cook until the chicken has cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, set a large pot of heavily salted water to boil over high heat. Cook noodles in the water until they are almost completely tender, approximately 7 to 8 minutes. Drain the noodles, and toss them in a bowl with the remaining butter, then toss again to coat.

Place the chicken on top of the noodles, then add the sour cream to the sauce, stir to combine and ladle it over the whole.

EASY SHEET-PAN CHICKEN

This comes from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “Crisp-skinned and very juicy, this is a more sophisticated version of the crumb-coated, oven-fried chicken dishes of childhood. In addition to bread crumbs, the chicken is slathered with two kinds of mustard plus fresh thyme and minced garlic, which makes it deeply flavored, bright and complex. And because it calls for only one pan, clean up is minimal. While the recipe calls for bone-in drumsticks and/or thighs, if you prefer boneless white meat, feel free to substitute it, reducing the cooking time by 5 to 10 minutes. Serve this with potatoes – either sweet or white – and your favorite green vegetable or salad. It’s weeknight cooking at its finest.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: About 1 hour.

This was featured in “Behold, the Sturdy Sheet Pan”, and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard

2 teaspoons chopped thyme leaves

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

3 pounds bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks (or a mixture), patted dry

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

2/3 cup plain dried bread crumbs

Olive oil, for drizzling

Preparation

Heat oven to 425 degrees. In a small bowl, combine whole-grain mustard, thyme leaves, garlic cloves, butter and Dijon mustard.

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Rub mustard butter mixture all over chicken (some might fall off but that’s O.K.). Place bread crumbs in a wide, shallow bowl, then coat the chicken evenly with bread crumbs. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake until chicken is golden and no longer pink, 35 to 40 minutes.

CAST-IRON APPLE AND BLACKBERRY CRUMBLE

This is from Matt Abdoo and was posted on the TODAY Show’s site. Matt wrote, “My dad used to make this for me growing up! Apples from upstate New York are some of the best in the country. They always added the perfect amount of tartness and sweetness to this crispy crumble.

Technique tip: Use your favorite apples for a signature taste and to make it your own.

Swap option: Pears work great and so do peaches! You can also use a 10- by 15-inch baking dish if not using the grill.”

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 12

To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/cast-iron-apple-blackberry-crumble-recipe-t154818.

Ingredients

Crumble Topping

1 cup all-purpose flour

3 packs (1 cup) apple-cinnamon instant oatmeal

1 cup light brown sugar

3/4 cup chopped pecans

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

8 ounces (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, grated

Apple Filling

2 pounds honey crisp apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4-inch thick

1 pound granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4-inch thick

1 pint blackberries

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon ginger

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1/2 cup light brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Preparation

Pre-heat oven or grill to 350°F.

For the crumble topping:

In a medium sized mixing bowl combine flour, apple-cinnamon instant oatmeal, chopped pecans, light brown sugar, baking powder, salt and cold grated butter until it forms a coarse crumble.

For the apple filling:

In another large mixing bowl combine the apples with melted butter, flour, corn starch, lemon juice, light brown sugar, salt and spices and toss to fully coat the apples. Next fold in the blackberries and pour the apple mixture into a 12-inch cast iron pan.

To assemble:

Fully coat the top of the apple mixture with the crumble topping and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Allow the crumble to cool slightly, and then serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Or chill overnight and serve cold.

RANCH BURGERS

This comes from bsouth21 on the Genius Kitchen site. Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4; Yield: 4 burgers

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix

1 egg, lightly beaten

3⁄4 cup seasoned bread crumbs

1 onion, chopped

Directions

Preheat the grill to high heat.

In a bowl, mix the ground beef, ranch dressing mix, egg, seasoned bread crumbs, and onion.

Form mix in to 1/4 patties.

Lightly oil the grill grate. Place patties on the grill, and cook burgers until 165 degrees.

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.

Thursday, May 20, 2021

Meatloaf

Meatloaf is such an iconic meal here in the U.S. For years, I'd fix meatloaf every week for Sunday dinner, usually with either mashed or baked potatoes, a green veggie, and dessert. Defintely one of those meals everyone in the family looked forward to.

That said, here are six yummy meatloaf recipes, including Turkey Meatloaf and Southwest Meatloaf. Enjoy!

MELT-IN-YOUR-MOUTH BUTTERMILK MEATLOAF

This is from John Mitzewich who wrote for The Spruce Eats. He wrote, "This easy meatloaf recipe sure lives up to its name. The buttermilk works its tangy magic to make this meatloaf tender, moist, and delicious. A glossy brown sugar glaze finishes off the meatloaf and is a perfect complement to the flavorful ingredients like onion, garlic, tarragon, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce that make it into the mixture. Enjoy this winning meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal."

To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/buttermilk-meatloaf-recipe-101521.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

2 tablespoons butter

1 onion (minced)

2 cloves garlic (minced)

2 1/2 pounds ground beef

2 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried tarragon

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup ketchup

3/4 cup buttermilk

2 eggs (beaten)

1 teaspoon hot sauce

1 cup breadcrumbs (plain)

For the Glaze:

1/3 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon cider vinegar

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Directions

Note: While there are multiple steps to this recipe, this meatloaf dish is broken down into workable categories to help you better plan for cooking.

Make the Meatloaf:

Gather the ingredients.

In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.

Remove from the heat, stir in the garlic, and let cool to room temperature.

Preheat the oven to 325 F.

In a large bowl, add the ground beef, the onion and garlic mixture, and all of the remaining meatloaf ingredients. Gently mix to incorporate.

Lightly grease the bottom of a shallow roasting pan with a few drops of oil.

Wet your hands with cold water and form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape, about 6 inches wide by about 3 to 4 inches high.

Bake for 30 minutes.

Make the Glaze:

Gather the ingredients.

While the meatloaf is baking, combine the brown sugar, vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the glaze over the top with a spoon. If you like, you can put a little of the glaze on the sides, but most of it should go on the top.

Bake for about 30 minutes more. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the center to make sure the meatloaf is done; it should reach at least 160 F.

Serve and enjoy.

SOUTHWEST MEATLOAF

Recipe Yield: Makes 6 to 8 servings

Source: TBC

Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/southwest-meatloaf.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (95% lean)

1 cup soft bread crumbs

3/4 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper

1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed

1/2 cup milk

1 egg

1 large clove garlic, minced

2 teaspoons salt

1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa

Directions

Heat oven to 350F. Combine all ingredients in large bowl except salsa, mixing lightly but thoroughly.

Shape beef mixture into 10 x 4-inch loaf on rack in broiler pan. Bake in 350F oven 1 hour, 15 minutes to 1 hour, 20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160F.

Let stand 10 minutes. Top with salsa; cut into slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 280; Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1.8 g; Sodium: 313 mg; Cholesterol: 120 mg; Protein: 34 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g

MUSHROOM MEATLOAF

Yield: 8 servings

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/739.shtml

Source: Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds 95-percent-lean ground beef or ground turkey

2 cups very finely chopped fresh mushrooms

3/4 cup very finely chopped onion

3/4 cup quick-cooking (1-minute) oats

8-ounce can tomato sauce with roasted garlic or Italian herbs

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons fat-free egg substitute

1/4 cup very finely chopped fresh parsley, or 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Place all of the ingredients except for 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce in a large bowl, and mix well.

Coat a 9-by-5-inch meatloaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and press the mixture into the pan to form a loaf.

Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Spread the remaining tomato sauce over the meatloaf and bake for 30 additional minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink inside and a meat thermometer reads at least 160 degrees.

Remove the loaf from the oven, and let sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Protein: 20 g; Fat: 4.4 g; Sodium: 399 mg; Cholesterol: 45 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.6 g; Dietary Fiber: 1.7 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 3 Low-Fat Meat, 1 Vegetable

MEATLOAF MUFFINS

Some of the nicknames we give ourselves while we’re on the web are interesting. This one comes from CountryLady from Ontario, Canada, and is posted on Food.com. She wrote, “Another good one from Toronto Chef Michael Bonacini. Not your ordinary meat loaf, its great with his Macaroni & Cheese and a green vegetable for a ‘retro’ dinner!!!!” Total Time: 30 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Yield: 12 muffins.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1⁄2 lbs ground beef

1 1⁄4 cups finely chopped onions

1 cup breadcrumbs

2⁄3 cup ketchup

1 dash hot sauce

1 dash Worcestershire sauce

2⁄3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1⁄2 teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1⁄2 teaspoon pepper

barbecue sauce, for glaze

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl& mix until well blended- do not over mix.

Place a 2 inch wide parchment strip across each mould of the muffin tin, coming up from each side by about 2 inches.

This will be used for unmoulding after they are cooked.

Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, generously fill each section of the muffin tin with meat, rounding the top to obtain a muffin shape.

Brush with BBQ sauce & bake in a preheated 350F oven for 15- 20 mins (or until meat thermometer reaches 160F), brushing occasionally with more BBQ sauce.

BEST EVER MEATLOAF

This comes from FamilyTime, and begins, “This moist and delicious meatloaf gets exceptional flavor from dry onion soup and a can of tomato soup. It's easy and tasty!”

Serves: 8 servings; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 80 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef

1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Tomato Soup (Regular or Healthy Request®)

1 envelope (about 1 ounce) dry onion soup and recipe mix

1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs

1 egg, beaten

1/4 cup water

Directions

Thoroughly mix the beef, 1/2 cup tomato soup, onion soup mix, bread crumbs and egg in a large bowl. Place the mixture into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan and firmly shape into an 8 x 4-inch loaf.

Bake at 350°F. for 1 hour 15 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through. Let the meatloaf stand for 10 minutes before slicing.

Heat 2 tablespoons pan drippings, remaining tomato soup and water in a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat until the mixture is hot and bubbling, stirring occasionally. Serve the soup mixture with the meatloaf.

Easy Substitution: You can substitute Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (Regular or 98% Fat Free) for the Tomato Soup.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a steamed vegetable blend. For dessert serve brownies.

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.

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Chili

If you love chili as much as I do, today's post is for you. Check out the Texas-Style Chili, the Easy Pork Chili, and the rest of today's yummy chili recipes. Enjoy!

ULTIMATE VEGAN CHILI

This is from Vegetarian Times, and begins, "This chili is made with a base of seitan and mushrooms for a rich, thick dish that is, for lack of a better word, meaty!

"In lieu of chili beans such as Bush’s Best Chili Beans, you can substitute or 1 can each black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans, partially drained. If you like your chili three-alarm hot, add an extra chipotle chile or two."

Makes 8 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/ultimate-vegan-chili-recipe/.

Ingredients

2 Tbs. olive oil

1 large onion, chopped (2 cups)

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

1 chipotle chile in adobo sauce, drained and minced

8 oz. baby bella mushrooms, finely chopped (1 1/2 cups)

2 8-oz. pkgs. seitan, chopped (3 cups)

3 Tbs. tomato paste

2 tsp. smoked paprika

2 tsp. dried oregano

1 1/2 tsp. chili powder

3/4 tsp. celery salt

3 15-oz. cans chili beans, partially drained

1 cup chopped carrots (2 to 3 large carrots)

2 Tbs. low-sodium tamari or soy sauce

1 Tbs. vegan Worcestershire sauce

Preparation

Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion, and sauté 7 to 10 minutes, or until beginning to brown, stirring often. Add garlic and chipotle chile, and sauté 1 minute more. Stir in mushrooms; cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until softened. Add seitan, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, chili powder, celery salt, and 1 cup water; cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add beans, carrots, tamari, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 1 hour, or until carrots are tender.

SLOW COOKER CHIPOTLE CHILI

This is from duboo, who posts recipes on AllRecipes. For this recipe, he wrote, "My friend Keni's love of smokey chipotle peppers inspired this recipe. It comes together perfectly and is a unique chili that will stand out against others. It is a spicy chili that at the same time is mellow. It gives you the kick without the lingering burn like many chilis do."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 6 hours 10 minutes; Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes; Yield: 12 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/237576/slow-cooker-chipotle-chili/.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef

1 pound bulk Italian sausage

1 large onion, diced

1 tablespoon minced garlic

2 (16 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained

2 (16 ounce) cans chili beans, undrained

2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes

2 (14.5 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes

2 ribs celery, chopped

1 green bell pepper, coarsely chopped

1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

1/2 (7 ounce) can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, finely chopped

1/2 (3 ounce) package bacon bits

1 tablespoon chili sauce

1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (such as Frank's RedHot®)

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 teaspoons brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir beef and sausage in the hot skillet until some of the fat renders, 2 to 3 minutes; add onion and garlic and continue to cook and stir until the meats are browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes more. Transfer beef mixture to a slow cooker.

Stir kidney beans, chili beans, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, celery, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, chipotle chiles, bacon bits, chili sauce, hot pepper sauce, chili powder, brown sugar, cumin, and salt with the beef mixture.

Cook on Low until vegetables are completely tender but the celery retains a slight bit of firmness, 6 to 8 hours (or 3 to 4 hours on High).

TEXAS-STYLE CHILI

This is from Juila Moskin in The New York Times cooking email. Julia wrote, “Calling a dish ‘Texas Chili,’ especially if you’re not a native of that state, is clearly asking for trouble. But this recipe, refined over years of potlucks and Super Bowl parties, is too good to keep under wraps. Its depth of flavor, from different chile types, makes this recipe stand out. It also has whole spices, unsweetened chocolate and dark beer that meld seamlessly into a brick-red sauce that naps the succulent meat. The meat can be cut into large chunks, or, more traditionally, thin slices, especially if you are using a tougher cut than chuck. Sirloin also makes good chili. If you have masa harina, the corn flour used to make tortillas, that will make the gravy even thicker, but it is not necessary. Like many vigorously spiced dishes, this one tastes even better a day or two after it is made and will hold its flavor well for at least a week.”

Yield: 12 servings; Time: 2 hours.

This was featured in “Texas Chili Makes a Welcome Guest” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon whole cumin seeds

1 1/2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds

4 pounds beef chuck roast or steak

1 teaspoon salt, more to taste

3 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus extra as needed

1 large yellow or white onion, chopped, plus extra chopped onion for serving

6 large garlic cloves, minced

4 to 7 large fresh green jalapeños (depending on how much heat you like), stemmed, seeded and chopped

3 tablespoons masa harina or 1 corn tortilla, torn into pieces (optional)

2 tablespoons ground pure chile powder, such as pasilla, Chimayo or ancho

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 (12-ounce) bottle Negra Modelo beer

1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes, or 3 10-ounce cans Ro-Tel canned tomatoes with green chiles

1 ounce unsweetened chocolate

3 whole dried large red chiles, such as New Mexico or guajillo

Chopped fresh cilantro, for serving

Fritos or warmed flour tortillas, for serving

Preparation

In a small heavy skillet, toast cumin and coriander seeds until fragrant. In a mortar and pestle, or in a coffee grinder, grind to a powder and set aside.

Meanwhile, roughly cut beef into 2-inch cubes, or slice it against the grain into pieces about 1/4-inch thick by 1 1/2 inches square. Sprinkle with salt.

In a large, heavy pot over high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, brown the meat, turning occasionally until crusty. Adjust heat to prevent scorching. As it is cooked, remove the meat to drain on paper towels. Add more oil as needed for browning, but do not clean out the pot.

To the empty but crusty pot, add onion, garlic, jalapeños, masa harina or tortilla (if using), chile powder, cumin-coriander powder and oregano. Cook, stirring, until onion has softened, 5 to 10 minutes. Add meat, beer, tomatoes, chocolate, whole dried chiles and 1 quart water. Bring to a gentle simmer and simmer about 1 1/2 hours, or until meat is fork-tender. Remove the dried chiles. Taste and add salt if necessary.

Serve immediately or let cool and refrigerate. The chili tastes best one or two days after it is made.

Reheat over low heat if necessary and serve in bowls, sprinkled with chopped onion and cilantro. Add Fritos for crunch, or dip tortillas into the spicy gravy.

HEARTY SLOW COOKER CHICKEN CHILI

This comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “This easy slow cooker chicken chili is relatively light and low-calorie compared to the classic beef or pork chili. Boneless chicken breasts and a variety of canned beans make the chili super easy and convenient. If you prefer to cook the chili on the stovetop, see the tips below the recipe.

“Feel free to use boneless chicken thighs in the recipe and use the canned beans you have on hand. We used pinto beans and great northern beans, but kidney beans, navy beans, black beans and cannellini beans are all excellent alternatives.

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours; Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes; Yield: 8 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless chicken breasts (about 4 large chicken breast halves)

1 cup onion (chopped)

1/2 cup green bell pepper (chopped)

2 cloves garlic (minced; or 1 teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder)

1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans (rinsed and drained)

1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)

1 (14.5-ounce) can stewed tomatoes

1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes

1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 1/2 cups corn kernels (frozen, thawed)

1 tablespoon chili powder (heaping)

1 teaspoon cumin (ground)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

1 bay leaf

Garnish: sour cream or shredded cheese

Optional: chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Gather the ingredients.

Dice the chicken or cut it into strips. Put the chicken pieces in the slow cooker along with the onion, bell pepper, garlic, drained and rinsed beans, tomatoes and tomato sauce, corn, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper and bay leaf. Stir to blend ingredients.

Cover and cook on high for 1 hour, then cook on low for 3 to 4 hours longer, or until the chicken is cooked and tender. Or cook on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Remove the bay leaf.

Spoon the chili into bowls and garnish with sour cream or shredded cheese, along with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

Serve with cornbread, crackers, or crusty bread.

Tips

Stovetop: Put ingredients in a large Dutch oven instead of a slow cooker. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 to 2 hours.

For thicker chili, add a few tablespoons of cornmeal about 30 minutes before it's done.

Recipe Variations

Other vegetables that may be added include sliced summer squash or zucchini, shredded or julienne-cut carrots, and sliced celery.

For a little heat, add a few tablespoons of minced jalapeno pepper or serrano. Or add some crushed red pepper flakes.

Use different varieties of canned beans, or use cooked dried beans instead. See crock pot great northern beans.

Use part or all boneless chicken thighs in the recipe. Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy in the slow cooker, so they're especially good in this recipe if you will be cooking it longer than the recommended times.

WEEKNIGHT TWO-BEAN CHILI

This is from the Food Network, and begins, "This 30-minute weekenight dinner is a vegetarian chili that tastes like it's been slow simmered for hours. The hint of Chinese five-spice powder is a nice spice surprise. If you serve it over spaghetti, it turns into Cincinnati-style chili. (1 serving of Cincinnati-style chili equals 3/4 cup chili + 2 ounce (dry) cooked whole-wheat spaghetti.)"

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/weeknight-two-bean-chili-recipe-2121374.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 small jalapeno, minced (with some seeds)

1 small or 1/2 large red onion, finely diced

2 teaspoons red wine vinegar

1 large clove garlic, minced

1 1/4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

1 cup canned crushed roasted tomatoes

1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder

1/4 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder or ground cinnamon, optional

Two 15-ounce cans beans (such as kidney and black), rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

2 cups cooked brown rice

1/2 cup finely shredded extra-sharp Cheddar (2 ounces)

Directions

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat; add the jalapenos, onions and vinegar and cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook about 30 seconds.

Stir in the broth, tomatoes, chili powder and five-spice powder if using, and increase the heat to high. Bring to a full boil and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the beans and return to a full boil. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until just slightly thickened but still soupy, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cilantro.

Fill each bowl with about 1/2 cup of rice. Ladle the chili on top, sprinkle with the Cheddar and serve.

EASY PORK CHILI

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: NPB

Recipe and image appear courtesy of the National Pork Board.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/easy-pork-chili.

Ingredients

1 pound ground pork, lean

1 (15-oz) can chili beans, undrained

2 (14-1/2-oz) cans diced tomatoes, in juice

1-1/2 cups water

1 tablespoon chili powder

1-1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves

salt, to taste (optional)

Directions

Cook ground pork over medium-high heat in 12-inch, nonstick skillet for 3 to 4 minutes or until pork is no longer pink, breaking pork in to small crumbles.

Drain and discard any juices.

Stir chili beans, tomatoes, water, chili powder, cinnamon and oregano into pork in skillet.

Cover and bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium. Uncover and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes or until desired consistency. If desired, season to taste with salt.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 290; Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 8 g; Sodium: 900 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Protein: 31 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

Mac and Cheese - Double-Post Tuesday

Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Today's double post deals with Macaroni and Cheese.

Who doesn't love Mac and Cheese? It has got to be one of those iconic, all-time favorite comfort foods. Ask a dozen different cooks, and chances are you'll get a dozen variations of this yumminess. It seems most of us who do any kind of cooking have our version of it that we whip up periodically.

Well, here are six variations to add to your Mac and Cheese line-up, including Slow Cooker Chili Mac 'n Cheese and Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Add a veggie and dessert, and voila! Enjoy!

HOMEMADE MACARONI AND CHEESE

I had been looking for a really simple but good homemade macaroni and cheese recipe, and this fits the bill. My daughter and granddaughter had come over on my granddaughter's birthday; while they were here, my daughter whipped up this recipe. She'd been making it for quite a while. It was a definite hit with everyone in the house.

Ingredients

1 box (16 ounce) cannelloni pasta (see Note)

3 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons flour

2 cups milk

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Note: Just about any tubular pasta can be used in this recipe, though it seems to work best with something bigger than elbow macaroni. Some of the better substitutes for the cannelloni would be ziti, penne, rigatoni, or elicoidali.

Directions

Turn oven on to 350 degrees.

Cook pasta according to package directions. If the package gives you a bracket – say, 12 – 14 minutes – lean toward the lower time, since you don't want the pasta to be too mushy. Drain, rinse, and set aside.

In a large pot, melt butter on low heat, then add flour, salt, and pepper. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously, for 2 to 3 minutes. Add milk and cook on medium heat for approximately 5 minutes until mixture thickens, stirring continuously.

Remove from heat and add macaroni, stirring it into mixture. Add the shredded cheese, and stir in completely.

Pour mixture into a 13 X 9 inch pan and bake at 350 for 10 – 15 minutes. Remove carefully, as it will be hot. (You knew that, right?) Dig in.

This makes 4 – 5 servings.

Photo: Homemade Macaroni and Cheese, on the left in the blue dish, and Benecol Macaroni and Cheese, on right, in orange casserole dish (from Avon)



BENECOL MACARONI AND CHEESE

For several years, there was a magazine dedicated to walking, titled Walking Magazine. It had many good articles, tips and recipes for those of us who feel a little more comfortable race-walking than running. Unfortunately, the magazine folded several years ago. This recipe was in it during its final year. Serves 4.

Ingredients

1/2 lb. small shell style macaroni

4 Tbs. Benecol

3 Tbs. all purpose flour

3 Tbs. finely chopped onion

1 1/2 C 2% milk, warmed

few drops Tabasco Sauce

1-pint nonfat cottage (or ricotta) cheese

1 tsp. salt

1/2 C flavored bread crumbs

1 Tbs. olive oil

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 9-by-9 inch pan liberally with nonstick cooking spray. Cook shells according to package directions, strain, and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

To prepare sauce, melt Benecol in 2-quart saucepan over medium heat. Quickly whisk in flour, add onions, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour milk into flour mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add Tabasco Sauce and cook an additional minute. Whisk in cheese and salt, and blend in shells; transfer mixture to prepared pan.

In small bowl, mix oil and bread crumbs together; spoon over top of macaroni and cheese. Bake for 20 minutes.

Per Serving: 510 calories; 27.2% calories from fat; 3G saturated fat; 65G carbohydrates; 12MG cholesterol; 612MG sodium; 2G fiber

PERFECT MACARONI AND CHEESE CASSEROLE WITH BREAD CRUMBS

This comes from Diana Rattray, who writes for The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Lots of Cheddar cheese inside and on top make this a delicious, creamy macaroni and cheese. Serve this casserole as a main dish with a salad or serve it as a side dish.” Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Cook Macaroni: 8 minutes; Total Time: 58 minutes; Yield: Serves 4 to 6.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

8 ounces macaroni

4 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 cup half-and-half or light cream

1 cup milk

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or a spicy brown mustard

2 1/2 to 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1 cup soft bread crumbs, tossed with 1 1/2 tablespoons melted butter

Preparation

Heat oven to 375°. Grease a 2-quart baking dish.

Cook macaroni in boiling salted water following package directions. Drain in a colander and rinse with hot water.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth and bubbly. Continue cooking and stirring for 1 minute. Add the salt, pepper, cream, and milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Add mustard and 2 cups of the cheese.

Continue cooking, stirring, until cheese is melted.

Combine the sauce mixture with the drained macaroni. Spoon into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining 1/2 to 1 cup of shredded cheese.

Scatter the buttered bread crumbs evenly over the cheese layer.

Bake for about 25 minutes, until lightly browned and bubbly.

GRANDMA'S MAC AND CHEESE

This comes from my e-cookbook, titled Off the Wall Cooking, found on Amazon.com.

Both of my grandmas were characters—I could write a book about either one. This is my dad's mom's version of the ultimate comfort food. She told me she made this for my dad and my uncle when they were kids. Very simple, but very good.

Ingredients

1 lb. elbow macaroni

1 – 2 jars of Cheese Whiz

Directions

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Heat Cheese Whiz, either in microwave or boiling water. (Remove lids from jars first.) Drain macaroni, dump into a large bowl, add heated Cheese Whiz, stir, and PIG OUT!!!

BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE

This is from an old Weight Watchers' email. Serves: 8; 5 Points (old points value).

Ingredients

12 oz uncooked macaroni, elbow-type

1/2 cup fat-free sour cream

12 oz fat-free evaporated milk

8 oz low-fat cheddar or Colby cheese, shredded

1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

1/4 tsp table salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

2 Tbsp dried bread crumbs

2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350ºF.

Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt; drain & transfer to a large bowl. While pasta is still hot, stir in sour cream; set aside.

Heat milk in small saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles appear just around the edges. Reduce heat to low, add cheese & simmer until cheese melts, stirring constantly with wire whisk, about 2 minutes; remove from heat & stir in mustard, salt, pepper & nutmeg.

Add cheese mixture to pasta; mix well. Transfer to a 4-quart casserole dish. Combine bread crumbs & Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over pasta. Bake until top is golden, about 30 minutes. Yields about 1 cup per serving.

SLOW-COOKER CHILI MAC ’N CHEESE

This is from Judy Kim on Delish, and begins, “Put in a little bit of prep in the morning, come home to an insanely delish dinner.”

Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4.

According to Delish, “Judy Kim is a NYC-based food stylist, recipe developer, and photographer. She also writes recipes for her website The Judy Lab.”

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. chili powder

1 tbsp. ground cumin

1 tbsp. cayenne

2 lb. lean ground beef

2 28-oz. cans crushed tomatoes

15 oz. kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 lb. small pasta, such as macaroni or fusilli

2 c. shredded Cheddar

2 c. shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Scallions, jalapeño, avocado, cilantro, and sour cream, for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened. Add chili, cumin, and cayenne until fragrant, 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

Transfer beef mixture to slow cooker along with tomatoes and kidney beans and season generously with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low, 6 hours.

When ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Add pasta and cheese to slow cooker and stir until melted. Serve with scallions, jalapeños, avocado, cilantro, sour cream and cheese.

Taco Tuesday

Are you ready for some yummy tacos? If so, you don't mind that it's time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's offerings include Southwest Chipotle Fish Tacos and Southwest Turkey Tacos. Enjoy!

CHICKEN AND VEGGIE FAJITAS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "No need to go out for delicious chicken fajitas when you can make this restaurant-inspired version at home. Ready to go big on homemade flavor? These fresh chicken fajitas use seasoned chicken strips, colorful sautéed peppers, sliced red onions and loads of fresh toppings all wrapped in flour tortillas. Chicken and Veggie Fajitas are perfect for picky eaters because they're almost infinitely customizable. Set out your favorite toppings like sliced jalapeños, chopped tomatoes and lime wedges. You'll be serving up a sizzling skillet of flavors in no time."

Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Makes 5 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/chicken-and-veggie-fajitas.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cups thinly sliced red or yellow bell peppers

1 cup thinly sliced red onions

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips

2/3 cup water

1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix

1 package (8.2 oz) Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas For Soft Tacos & Fajitas (6 inch), heated as directed on package

Toppings as desired, such as Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend, sliced jalapeño chiles, chopped tomatoes, lime wedges, Old El Paso™ Creamy Salsa Verde Sauce, Old El Paso™ Crema Mexicana, guacamole, pico de gallo salsa

Preparation

In 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onions. Cook over medium heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Spoon vegetables onto platter; cover to keep warm.

Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to same skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center. Stir in water and taco seasoning mix; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer 2 to 3 minutes or until thickened. Add to platter with vegetables.

To serve, fill tortillas with warmed chicken, bell pepper mixture and your favorite toppings.

Expert Tips

For best results, pat chicken slices dry before adding to a hot skillet.

Try Old El Paso™ Shredded 3 Pepper Cheese Blend to replace Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend for a little extra heat for your chicken fajitas.

Short on time? Use 3 cups frozen pepper and onion stir-fry blend to replace fresh bell peppers and onions. Cook according to package directions; add to platter, and cover to keep warm. Continue with recipe.

Fajitas are almost infinitely customizable, so set out your favorite toppings so people can make their own perfect fajita combos.

The word “fajita” is the diminutive form of the Spanish “faja,” which means “strip” or “belt.” So “fajitas” literally means “little strips.”

SPICY QUINOA TACOS

This is from Katelyn Drake in the Share Reader Recipe in Vegetarian Times (April/May 2015, page 12). Serves 6.

Ingredients

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 small onion, diced (1 cup)

1 rib celery, diced (1/2 cup)

1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp)

1 Tbs. ground cumin

1 Tbs. chili powder

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 15-oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

1 15-oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained

2 medium carrots, diced (1 cup)

1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth

1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels

12 6-inch corn tortillas

Directions

Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and celery, and cook 5 minutes, or until soft. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne, and saute 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes with liquid. Cook 2 minutes, then stir in quinoa, carrots, and broth. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 to 25 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Mix in black beans and corn. Serve in tortillas.

SOUTHWEST TURKEY TACOS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Lean ground turkey, veggies and savory salsa meld in the slow cooker to make this deliciously easy taco filling."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes; Makes 12 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/southwest-turkey-tacos.

Ingredients

1 package (20 oz) extra-lean ground turkey

1/2 cup chopped onion (1 medium)

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 cups Old El Paso™ Thick ‘n Chunky salsa

1 can (15 oz) Progresso™ black beans, drained

1 can (11 oz) whole kernel corn with red and green peppers, drained, rinsed

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 boxes (4.6 oz each) Old El Paso™ taco shells (24 shells total)

3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro

3 cups chopped lettuce

3 medium tomatoes, chopped (1 1/2 cups)

Preparation

In 12-inch skillet, place turkey and onion; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until turkey is no longer pink.

Spray 3- to 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In cooker, mix turkey mixture, salsa, beans, corn and chili powder.

Cover; cook on Low heat setting 6 to 7 hours.

To serve, heat taco shells in oven as directed on boxes. Stir cilantro into turkey mixture. Spoon about 1/4 cup mixture into each warm taco shell; top with lettuce and tomatoes.

Expert Tips

This taco mixture is also delicious served over rice and topped with chopped fresh cilantro.

Top with fat-free sour cream, if desired.

SOUTHWEST CHIPOTLE FISH TACOS

This is from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/southwest-chipotle-fish-tacos/.

Ingredients

8 frozen fish fillets

1/2 pound coleslaw or shredded cabbage

1/4 cup Hidden Valley® Spicy Ranch Dressing

8 corn tortillas

1 cup salsa

Directions

Prepare fish fillets according to package directions.

In a medium bowl, toss coleslaw and dressing until well-combined.

Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.

To assemble, place 1 fish fillet on each tortilla, top with coleslaw and salsa. Serve immediately.

Notes: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.

For dips, make and enjoy your dip creation. Then, refrigerate within 2 hours or discard.

CARROT-AND-BLACK BEAN CRISPY TACOS

This recipe comes from Country Living, and begins, “Dig into vegetarian tacos with tons of fresh flavor.” Total Time: 30 minutes; Prep Time: 30 minutes; Level: Easy; Yield: 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 small onion, chopped

1 poblano pepper, diced

1 tsp. chili powder

1 (15.5-oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 tbsp. fresh lime juice, plus wedges for serving

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 lb. medium carrots, cut into 3" to 4" sticks

1 tsp. ground cumin

8 whole-grain taco shells, warmed

Sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, and chopped fresh cilantro and radishes, for serving

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 4 to 6 minutes. Add chili powder and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add black beans and 1/3 cup water. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, 4 to 6 minutes. Mash beans with the back of the spoon until thick. Stir in lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, toss carrots with cumin and 1 1/2 tablespoons oil on a rimmed baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Roast, turning once, until just tender, 10 to 12 minutes.

Divide beans and carrots between taco shells. Top with avocado, queso fresco, cilantro, and radishes. Serve with lime wedges alongside.

PER SERVING: protein: 8 g; fat: 17 g; carbohydrate: 42 g; fiber: 10 g; sodium: 261 mg; cholesterol: 0 mg; calories: 334.

SOFT BEAN TACOS

This also comes from Vegetarian Times. Serves 4.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients:

8 (6-inch) flour tortillas

1/4 cup water

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed

2 green onions, thinly sliced

1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)

16-oz. can spicy fat-free refried beans

1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, reduced-fat if desired, or soy cheese

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400°F. Wrap tortillas in aluminum foil and warm in oven.

In large saucepan, combine water and bell pepper. Cover and cook over medium heat, 2 minutes. Add corn, green onions, jalapeño pepper and refried beans. Stir gently until mixture is heated through, about 5 minutes.

Remove tortillas from oven. Spread some of the filling on one half of each tortilla, then sprinkle with a small amount of cheese. Fold over and arrange on individual plates. Top with salsa and yogurt if desired.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 260; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 33 g; Cholesterol: 17 mg; Sodium: 455 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: g; Yield: 4 to 6 Servings

Monday, May 17, 2021

Mexican Recipes - Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's double post deals with Mexican recipes, and includes Easy Beef Enchiladas and Mexican Breakfast Burritos. Enjoy!

BLT RANCH QUESADILLAS

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Now you can enjoy your favorite BLT sandwich as a quesadilla! The Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce makes this one extra delicious!"

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/blt-ranch-quesadillas.

Ingredients

4 Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas for burritos, 8 inch (from 11-oz package)

1 1/3 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese

1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon

3/4 cup chopped baby spinach

1/3 cup chopped tomato

1/4 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce

Preparation

On one half of each tortilla, spread 1/3 cup cheese, 2 tablespoons bacon and 2 tablespoons spinach; fold tortilla over filling.

Heat 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Place 2 quesadillas in skillet at a time. Cook 2 to 4 minutes, turning once, until tortilla is golden brown and crisp and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining quesadillas.

Top quesadillas with remaining spinach and tomato; drizzle with sauce. To serve, cut into wedges.

Expert Tips

Use fresh pico de gallo in place of tomato to add a bit of additional flavor and heat.

After cooking each quesadilla, cover it to keep it warm while you cook the remaining quesadillas. When cooking second batch of quesadillas, watch tortillas carefully since skillet will already be hot.

Cheddar and Mexican 4 cheese are great substitutes for the Monterey Jack.

Serve the sauce alongside the quesadillas for dipping rather than drizzling on top, if desired.

Nutrition: 4 servings (1 quesadilla each): 1 Serving Calories 340 (Calories from Fat 180); Total Fat 20g (Saturated Fat 10g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 50mg; Sodium 740mg; Total Carbohydrate 27g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 2g); Protein 14g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 15%; Vitamin C 4%; Calcium 30%; Iron 10%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Vegetable, 1 High-Fat Meat, 2 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 2

SLOW COOKER MEXICAN LASAGNA

This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "This slow cooker Mexican lasagna is a dish the whole family will love and is perfect for busy week nights."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours; Makes 6 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/slow-cooker-mexican-lasagna.

Ingredients

2 pounds hamburger

3 Tablespoons Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix, divided

1 cup salsa

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 (19-ounce) can Old El Paso™ red enchilada sauce

2-3 cups shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese

4 large flour tortillas

Optional toppings: sour cream, tomatoes, cilantro, green onions, olives

Preparation

In a large frying pan, cook the hamburger over medium heat until browned. Drain grease and stir in 2 Tablespoons taco seasoning and salsa.

Add the cream cheese and 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning to a medium sized bowl. Stir until smooth and then add in the black beans.

Pour 1/3 cup enchilada sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place a tortilla on top and spread with 1/3 cup cream cheese mixture. Then add about 1 cup taco meat and 3/4 cup cheese. Drizzle 1/2 cup enchilada sauce on top and then repeat with 3 layers.

Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-4 hours, or until cheese in nice and bubbly hot.

EASY BEEF ENCHILADAS

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Try these easy, cheesy ground beef enchiladas, complete with sassy sauce and mild chiles."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Makes 5 servings

View this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/easy-beef-enchiladas.

Ingredients

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

2 cans (10 oz each) Old El Paso™ enchilada sauce

1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles

1 package (8.2 oz) Old El Paso™ flour tortillas for soft tacos & fajitas (6 inch)

1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (6 oz)

Make it FRESH toppings, as desired (see below)

Preparation

Heat oven to 375°F. Spray 13x9-inch (3-quart) baking dish or pan with cooking spray.

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce and the chiles.

Spread 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce evenly in baking dish. Spread 1/4 cup beef mixture down center of each tortilla; sprinkle with 1 tablespoon cheese. Wrap tortillas tightly around filling, placing seam side down in baking dish. Top with remaining enchilada sauce. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let stand 5 minutes before serving; add Make it FRESH toppings.

Expert Tips

Ideas for make it FRESH toppings: diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro leaves, green onions, diced avocado.

Try green enchilada sauce for a new twist!

DOUBLE CORN CAKES WITH BLACK BEANS

This is from Vegetarian Times (April/May 2015, page 77), and begins, "Dressed up with corn kernels, pre-cooked polenta is a cinch to transform into savory fritters. Serve with your favorite salsa." Serves 4

To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/double-corn-cakes-with-black-beans/.

Ingredients

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced (1 1/2 cups)

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

1 jalapeño chile, seeded and diced (1/4 cup)

1 Tbs. ground cumin

2 15-oz. cans no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained

1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes

1 1/2 cups fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels, divided

1 Tbs. lime juice

1 18-oz. tube pre-cooked polenta

1 large egg, lightly beaten

Preparation

Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, jalapeño, and cumin, and sauté 5 minutes. Stir in beans, tomatoes, 1 cup corn, and lime juice; season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cook 5 minutes, or until heated through. Transfer mixture to covered container, and keep warm. Wipe out skillet.

Meanwhile, crumble polenta into microwave-safe bowl, and mash with fork until nearly smooth. Add remaining 1/2 cup corn kernels. Microwave 1 minute to soften polenta. Stir, then add beaten egg, and fold into polenta mixture until smooth.

Coat skillet with cooking spray, and heat over medium-high heat. Shape polenta into 8 1/3-cup cakes, gently flattening with palm. Cook corn cakes in two batches in skillet 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Serve corn cakes over black bean mixture.

BAKED TURKEY ENCHILADAS

This comes from Diana Rattray, a contributor at The Spruce Eats. She wrote, " Turkey enchiladas are made with leftover turkey, cheese, sour cream, and tortillas. Serve these flavorful turkey enchiladas with rice and refried beans.

"Enchiladas are typically made with corn tortillas, but you can use corn or flour in these turkey enchiladas. The easy sauce is made with mild chile peppers, but if you like a little heat, add some finely chopped jalapeno rings."

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 62 minutes; Total: 82 minutes; Makes 6 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/baked-turkey-enchiladas-recipe-3061803.

Ingredients

3 cups turkey (shredded)

2 cups sour cream

2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded or a Mexican blend of cheeses, divided)

1 teaspoon salt

12 (10-inch) tortillas (corn or flour)

1/3 cup corn oil

For the Sauce

2 cans mild green chile peppers (4 ounces each)

Ingredients

1 clove garlic (minced)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 1/2 pounds stewed tomatoes

2 cups onion (chopped)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/2 cup water

Directions

Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 F.

Lightly grease a 9x13x2-inch baking pan.

Combine the shredded turkey with sour cream, 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, and salt. Stir to blend thoroughly.

Heat the oil and dip tortillas in until soft and drain. Or, follow package directions for heating tortillas in the microwave oven or conventional oven.

Stuff the warm tortillas with turkey mixture and roll up. Arrange the filled rolls seam side down, side-by-side in the prepared baking pan.

Gather the sauce ingredients.

In a skillet, saute the chile peppers with garlic in the olive oil for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the stewed tomatoes, onions, salt, oregano, and water. Simmer uncovered until the sauce is reduced and thickened, or about 1/2 hour.

Pour the chile sauce over enchiladas and bake them for about 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and return them to the oven for a few minutes, or just until the cheese has melted.

Let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes.

Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Make the enchiladas with cooked shredded chicken instead of turkey. Chicken thighs make a good filling.

Replace the cheddar or cheddar jack cheese with pepper jack or a taco seasoned blend.

Add a few tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro to the filling.

Garnish the enchiladas with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro or some sliced green onion tops when they come out of the oven.

Add 1 cup of cooked or canned black beans or pinto beans to the turkey filling or replace some of the turkey with the beans. It's a good, budget-friendly way to stretch the turkey.

MEXICAN BREAKFAST BURRITOS

This is from Weight Watchers, and begins, "Breakfast burritos are worth waking up for, and this one brings a mix of Mexican flavors in a hearty and portable package. These are wrapped individually in foil so they’re warm and ready to go, no matter the size of your crowd. The scrambled eggs get a flavor boost thanks to cumin and cayenne. You can make these burritos ahead and refrigerate them to have them ready to go for breakfast for the next couple of days. Just unwrap them and reheat them in the microwave or in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Replace the sour cream with diced avocado tossed in lime juice, if you like."

Prep Time: 14 minutes; Cook Time: 34 minutes; Total Time: 49 minutes; Serves: 6; Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

6 Tbsp Reduced-fat sour cream

6 Tbsp Fat free salsa

2 sprays Cooking spray

1/2 medium Uncooked onion, chopped

1 medium Poblano chile, chopped

8 eggs

3/4 tsp kosher salt

1 tsp Ground cumin

1 pinch Cayenne pepper

6 medium Whole-wheat tortillas

3/4 cup Weight Watchers Reduced fat Mexican style shredded cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In a small bowl, combine sour cream and salsa; set aside.

Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; set over medium-high heat. Add onion and pepper to skillet and sauté until slightly softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk together eggs, salt, cumin, and cayenne; pour into skillet after vegetables are softened. Scramble mixture until cooked through, about 10 to 12 minutes.

Place a tortilla on a square of aluminum foil big enough to wrap tortilla in when rolled up; spoon about 1/2 cup egg mixture down center of tortilla. Top with 2 tablespoons each salsa mixture and cheese; fold up burrito-style and wrap tightly with foil. Place on a baking sheet and repeat with remaining ingredients. Bake until heated through, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Yields 1 burrito per serving.