Yum!

Papaya salsa

2011-08-25T13:51:00.002-07:00

This recipe works great with seafood!

1 small papaya - peeled, seeded and chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon minced jalapeno peppers
1 teaspoon salt

I used more jalapeno, a whole one, and it was just the right amount of spice for us. If you don't have lime juice substitute with lemon. I think this recipe would also work well with mango's if papayas aren't your thing.

Whole Wheat Pita Pockets

2011-06-23T17:23:00.002-07:00

Soft whole wheat round breads with a pocket inside!
Yield:
8 whole pita pockets (or 16 halves)
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cup warm water (110-115 degrees)
1 tablespoon oil
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons sugar
2 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
1/3 cup gluten*
1 1/2 teaspoons dry yeast
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine first 4 ingredients. Add the gluten and 1 cup of the flour, along with the yeast, and stir to mix. Add remaining flour and knead to make a soft dough. (Add additional flour if necessary during kneading.)
Alternately, if you have a bread machine, you can put the ingredients in the pan in the order listed and use the dough cycle. Skip to step 3 if using your bread machine! :)
2. Put your dough into a bowl, lightly oil the top, and cover. Set in a warm place to rise, until almost double (about an hour). I like to turn my oven on for a minute or two, then turn it off, and let the dough rise in there, since our house is cool.
3. Punch dough down and turn onto a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife, cut dough into 8 equal pieces. Form each piece into a ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a 6- or 7-inch circle.
4. As you roll the rounds, set them aside on a lightly floured countertop or table, and cover loosely with a towel. Let rise for about 25-35 minutes, until slightly puffy. (The rounds will still be thin though! :D)
5. Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Place 2 rounds, side-by-side, onto a wire rack, such as is used for cooling things. Place rack in the middle of the oven. Bake for 4-5 minutes, until puffy and just slightly browned. (If bread is too browned, it will be dry and not pliable.)
6. Remove rack from oven and immediately wrap/layer pita breads in a damp towel, to soften. Continue baking the remaining breads, layering them between damp towels as soon as they're baked. Allow breads to completely cool.
7. Cut pita breads in half, or split the top edge, and fill as desired. :)
8. Store pitas in a plastic zipper bag in the fridge for a few days, or place in the freezer for longer storage. To re-warm pitas, wrap them in a damp towel and then wrap in foil. Place in a warm (200-250 degree) oven for about 20 minutes.

I got this recipe from a friend and made a few adjustments. First, I didn't have any gluten and I didn't want them 100% whole wheat so I just used half white flour, (1.5 cups white/1.5 cups wheat). At first I made the mistake of just glancing over the recipe and thought I was supposed to put the baking rack on a sheet pan. My first batch took twice as long as it said so I re-read and realized that you only put them on the baking rack, and do this carefully or they won't puff and make a pocket.
They turned out awesome. Very light and really did have a pocket in them, I will definitely make them again. Oh, and I did double the recipe and now I have bunch left over, yay!

Roasted Veggies

2011-06-16T17:13:00.002-07:00

Salt
Pepper
Garlic, fresh or powdered
Onion powder
Curry powder (optional)
Olive oil

Assortment of vegetables, our favorites are asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, grey zucchini.

Chop vegetable into 1-2 inch pieces and arrange on baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Add as much seasoning as you like, but it takes more than you think.
Bake at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes, it varies with each vegetable. You know they're done when they are sizzling and slightly browned.

Colored Popcorn Balls

2011-03-21T11:38:00.002-07:00

Super easy recipe!

1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 white sugar
1 pkg. (3 oz.) jell-o, whatever flavor you want. Sugar free works fine.
3-4 quarts popped popcorn (unflavored)

Bring to rolling boil you can stir down and boil 1 minute.
Remove from heat and add jell-o, mix well. Pour over popcorn and mix well.
As soon as you can start forming balls, once it cools off it keeps its shape.

Mini Apple Pie Pastires

2011-03-09T12:37:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold butter, cubed
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1/2 cup milk

FILLING:

3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
5 tablespoons cold butter, divided
6 small tart apples, peeled and cored
1/4 cup sugar

Directions

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle with vinegar. Gradually add milk, tossing with a fork until dough forms a ball. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes or until easy to handle.

Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour and cinnamon. Cut in 2 tablespoons butter until crumbly; set aside. Melt the remaining butter. Cut apples into 1/2-in. rings.
Shape dough into sixteen 1-1/2-in. balls. Roll each into a 5-in. circle. Brush with 2 tablespoons melted butter.

Place one apple ring in the center of each circle. Top each with 2 teaspoons brown sugar mixture. Fold edges of dough over apple rings, leaving centers uncovered; crimp edges. Brush dough with remaining melted butter; sprinkle with sugar.

Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and apples are tender. Serve warm. Yield: 16 servings.

Southwestern Chicken Soup

2011-03-08T12:24:00.002-07:00

I doubles this, and added extra beans. It was great. I used diced tomatoes and then a separate can of green chilies. We didn't have the yogurt and I was going to use sour cream, but it wasn't needed.I used water and bullion and omitted the extra salt. So warm and yummy.

Ingredients

1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 can (15-1/4 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) chicken broth
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Plain yogurt and minced fresh cilantro

Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chicken and onion in oil until chicken is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer.
Stir in the corn, beans, broth, tomatoes, cumin, salt, chili powder and cayenne. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with yogurt and cilantro. Yield: 4 servings.

Oatmeal Rolls

2011-03-08T12:22:00.002-07:00

Go ahead and double this roll recipe. You wont regret it. They are so yummy.

Ingredients

2 cups water
1 cup quick-cooking oats
3 tablespoons butter
1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1/3 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
4-3/4 to 5-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

Directions

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil; add oats and butter. Cook and stir for 1 minute. Remove from the heat; cool to lukewarm.
In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the oat mixture, sugars, salt and 4 cups of flour; beat until smooth. Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Punch dough down; allow to rest for 10 minutes. Shape into 18 balls. Place in two greased 9-in. round baking pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to wire racks. Yield: 1-1/2 dozen.

Tomato Herb Focaccia

2011-02-07T13:26:00.002-07:00

This was so good. We ate it all the first night I made it and wanted more. If you are a bread family, double this and enjoy.

1 pkg yeast
1 cup warm water
2 Tbsb Olive Oil, divided
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. each oregano, thyme, and Rosemary crushed.
1/2 tsp. dried basil
dash pepper
2 to 2 1/2 c. mozzarella cheese
1 Tbsp. Parmesans cheese.

Dissolve yeast, water, 1 part 0il salt and sugar. Let sit 5 mins. Add seasoning and 1 1/2 c. flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Knead on floured surface for 6-8 mins. Return to bowl, cover and let rise till doubled in size, about 1 hour. Punch down, cover and let rest 10 mins. Shape into a 9 x 13 pan. Cover and let rise 30 mins. With finger tips make several dimples.

Brush with remaining oil. Arrange tomatoes over bread. Cover with cheese. I used more Parmesan as I love it. Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 mins or until golden brown.

Buttery Herbed Dinner Rolls

2011-02-04T11:10:00.002-07:00

I don't have a bread machine. I just did it the old fashion way, by hand. Turned out great. I used a little less flour, probably due to doing it by had.

1 cup water (70° to 80°)
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 egg
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon each dried basil, oregano, thyme and rosemary, crushed
3-1/4 cups bread flour
2-1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
Additional butter, melted
Coarse salt, optional

Directions
In a bread machine pan, place the water, butter, egg, sugar, salt, seasonings, flour and yeast in order suggested by manufacturer. Select dough setting(check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water or flour if needed).

(After I mixed it by hand, I let is rise for 1 hour. Then I made them into rolls, dipped them into melted butter, placed on cookie sheet, and let rise again. Then I baked as below.)

When cycle is completed, turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide dough into 16 portions; shape each into a ball. Place 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.
Bake at 375° for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with butter and sprinkle with coarse salt if desired. Remove from pans to wire racks. Yield: 16 rolls.

Honey Glazed Chicken

2011-02-04T11:07:00.001-07:00

I found this on Taste of Home. I used chicken breasts in place of a whole chicken. It was wonderful. I served it with Butter Herbed Rolls.

Ingredients
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 broiler/fryer chicken (about 3 pounds), cut up
1/2 cup butter, melted, divided
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1-1/2 teaspoons curry powder

Directions
In a bowl or bag, combine flour, salt and cayenne pepper; add chicken pieces and dredge or shake to coat. Pour 4 tablespoons butter into a 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan; place chicken in pan, turning pieces once to coat. Bake, uncovered at 350° for 30 minutes. Combine brown sugar, honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, curry powder and remaining butter; pour over chicken. Bake 45 minutes more or until chicken is tender, basting several times with pan drippings. Yield: 4-6 servings.

Mystery Candy

2010-06-23T09:53:00.002-07:00

One of the favorites in our house growing up, and so easy to make.

1 cup BUTTER
1 cup brown sugar
Enough saltine crackers to line a large rimmed cookie sheet (about 2 sleeves)
3/4 pkg. chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
chopped nuts (optional)

Pre-heat oven to 350. Spray cookie sheet with oil. Line with single layer of saltines.
Boil butter and brown sugar for 3 minutes. Pour over crackers and spread to cover. Bake for 5 minutes. Turn off oven. Evenly sprinkle chocolate chips over crackers and place in hot oven for 5 minutes. Remove and spread, sprinkle with chopped nuts.

Kale Smoothie

2010-06-11T06:58:00.002-07:00

Look up the health benefits of Kale and you will be drinking this smoothie a few times a week.

2 cups of raw washed kale
1 ripe banana
2 cups orange juice
2 cups frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons raw washed ginger
juice of 1 lime

1. Blend orange juice and kale until smooth ( I press the pulse button several times)
2. Add frozen blueberries, banana, ginger, lime juice
3. enjoy- this a rough guideline, suit the recipe to fit you families taste buds

Ashley's Chicken Chili

2009-10-26T16:42:00.003-07:00

Ingredients

1 lb. chicken breast

1 can 14 oz. diced green chili's

1/2 medium onion

3 cans great northern beans, drained.

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup flour

pepper jack cheese

chili powder

cumin

1. Cut chicken in 1 inch pieces and saute in large pot or dutch oven with onion and green chili's until cooked through.

2. Add chicken broth and beans. Season with chili powder and cumin to taste (about 1 tsp. each). Bring to a boil, reduce and simmer.

3. Remove one cup of broth and let stand for 10 minutes. Mix into reserved broth sour cream and flour.

4. Add sour cream mixture back to pot and bring back to a boil.

5. Either mix in 4 cups of pepper jack cheese at this point (it adds a lot of heat) or let everyone add the amount they want. Sometimes I just use cheddar or whatever I have. This recipe heats up great the next day.

Banana Muffins

2009-10-04T11:54:00.002-07:00

This recipe makes a large batch of muffins, about 2 1/2 dozen. They are soft and moist, not flakey at all. To me it's like a less dense version of banana bread.

3 c. flour
2 c. sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 lb. butter (two sticks), melted and cooled
2 eggs
3/4 c. milk
2 tsp. vanilla
3-4 medium ripe bananas, mashed
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake 25 to 30 minutes. Mix dry ingredients; add melted butter and blend. Add eggs, milk, vanilla, banana and nuts.

Coconut Ice Cream!

2009-07-13T20:41:00.002-07:00

So stinkin' good!

Ingredients

1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup half-and-half
1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions
1Spread coconut out on a baking sheet lined with foil.

2Place in a 400° oven for 5-7 minutes or until coconut turns a light brown; take out of the oven and allow to cool.

3In a mixing bowl, beat the sugar into the eggs until thickened and a pale yellow color.

4Beat in the cornstarch and salt; set aside.

5In a saucepan, mix together the half-anf-half and coconut milk.

6Bring to a boil over medium heat.

7Remove pan from heat and slowly beat the hot liquid into the eggs/sugar mixture.

8Pour the entire mixture back into the pan and set on low heat.

9Stir constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon until the custard gets slightly thickened (don't let the mixture boil or the eggs will scramble).

10Remove from heat and pour the hot custard mixture through a strainer into a large clean mixing bowl.

11Let the custard cool slightly, then stir in the toasted coconut, cream, and vanilla.

12Cover and refrigerate until cold or overnight.

13Stir the chilled custard; freeze in 1 or 2 batches in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.

14May eat right away or transfer to a freezer container and freeze 2 hours.

A couple of changes I made with GREAT results. No shredded coconut. I didn't strain the mixture. I added a couple of drops of almond extract. It came out perfect after being in the ice cream maker for 25 minutes.

Ribs

2009-06-25T07:12:00.004-07:00

Dry Rub

2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (makes a medium heat)
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 teaspoons mustard powder
3-4 teaspoons salt
6 teaspoons brown sugar
(makes enough for 4-5 pounds of ribs)

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees
2. Cut ribs into sections of 3 or 4 bones (or one serving size)
3. Mix ingredients well and sprinkle on both sides, rub into the meat.
4. Seal the ribs together in a large foil pack in a roasting pan with 1/3 cup water.
5. Bake for 2 1/2 -3 hours. The last half hour take lid off roasting pan and open foil pack, if desired brush with your favorite BBQ sauce. You could also finish them on the grill.

Mango salsa

2009-06-11T15:08:00.002-07:00

I made this the other day and it is so refreshing. You can improvise with how much of each ingredient you want depending on your tastes.

2-3 mangos peeled and diced
2 jalepenos remove seeds and dice (make sure to wash your hands after this) with 2 there is a little kick in the salsa
1/2 cup to 1 cup cilantro thinly chopped
Juice of 1-2 lemons poured over all ingredients
Mix and enjoy. This is so refreshing can be eaten with tacos, tortilla chips, quesadillas, etc....

Ingredients:

2-3 mangos
2 jalepenos
cilantro
1-2 lemons

Pulled pork

2009-06-11T14:59:00.002-07:00

This is such is any easy dinner!
Place 1/5-2 pound pork loin roast or any type of pork roast you think will work in a crockpot with 1 can crushed pineapple. Let cook all day on high, 7-8 hours. Remove the juice and crushed pineapple and reserve, shred the pork with a fork and add 1-2 cups of your favorite barbecue sauce. Add reserved juice as needed to moisten the meet. Serve as pulled pork sandwhiches.

Ingredients:
1.5-2 pound Pork roast
1 can crushed pineapple
1-2 cups barbecue sauce
Buns

Coconut Shrimp

2009-04-22T12:18:00.002-07:00

1 lb. medium or larger shrimp; defrosted, peeled and deveined. You can either leave the tail on or off.

4 large egg whites

3/4 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon cayenne

1/2 pkg. shredded or grated sweetened coconut.

oil for frying

Rinse shrimp.

In medium bowl combine cornstarch and cayenne.

In separate medium bowl beat egg whites until frothy, or very soft peaks.

Put coconut in shallow dish.

To coat shrimp place 3-4 at a time in the cornstarch mix, shake off excess. Transfer to egg whites and coat, then place in coconut and coat. Fry in hot, but not too hot oil, about 1-2 minutes each side. Adjust oil if coconut is browing to quickly.

A couple of sidenotes: That is not a picture of the shrimp I made, but mine are VERY similar when made with the shredded coconut. You can adjust the amount of cayenne to taste, 1 teaspoon just gives it a little zing, not any spiciness. Dipping sauces that go great are Thai sweet chili sauce and pineapple.

Chicken Lazone

2009-04-04T15:45:00.005-07:00

Simple and Delicious. I couldn't believe how good this tasted.

1 t. salt
1 1/2 t. chili powder
2 t. garlic powder
4 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/4 c. butter divided
1/2 c. cream

I made it with two chicken breasts and less seasonings, but the same sauce so we would have sauce to serve over noodles. You sprinkle the breasts with the seasonings. In a skillet heat half of butter till melted. Add seasoned chicken. Cook till browned and tender. Remove skillet from heat and turn heat down to low. After a minute add the cream and return the pan to the stove. Cook till it simmers. Add the rest of the butter. Let simmer for 5-10 min. Serve over noodles. We also added broccoli to our noodle bowl. It was divine.

Shrimp Eggrolls

2009-04-04T07:54:00.002-07:00

I love homemade eggrolls. They are a little bit of work to make, but soooo worth it! I tried a new variation last week and LOVED it.

What you will need:
1 package eggroll wrappers
1/2 head of cabbage, shredded
2-3 carrots, shredded
2 medium stalks celery, diced
1 lb. shrimp, deveined
soy sauce
fish sauce (optional)
butter, for cooking shrimp
oil for frying

Saute shrimp in hot pan with butter until nearly done, about 1 1/2 minutes a side. Pre-cooked shrimp can be used.
Remove shrimp from pan and dice into 1/2 pieces.
In large pan or pot put in cabbage, carrots, and celery. Pour over the top about 1-2 tablespoons fish sauce and about 1/3-1/2 cup soy sauce, depending on your taste. Cover and and let steam, stirring occasionally.
Once cabbage is softened add shrimp, take off heat and toss until combined.
Fill egg roll wrappers and fry. This filling will be enough for the whole package of wrappers, well stuffed.
Serve with soy sauce, plum sauce or any other Asian sauce you like.

Chocolate Ganache Tarts

2009-04-01T12:24:00.002-07:00

YUM!!!! 100%!!! And Easy!!!

1/2 c. butter, softened
3 oz cream cheese, softened.

Blend together. Then add:
1 c. flour
1/4 c. Powder sugar

Press into greased mini muffin pan. Bake at 325 for 20-25 min. or until golden brown. Remove from pan and let cool.

In a sauce pan mix the following and cook over low heat till chocolate is melted and it is well combined.

2/3 c. milk chocolate chips
3/4 c. heavy cream.

Pour into a bowl and refrigerate till cooled and firm. Whip till soft peaks form. Put back in fridge for 10 min. Then pipe or spoon into tarts. Garnish with a Raspberry and mint leaf if desired or sprinkle with powder sugar. Eat, Eat, Eat.

The recipe called for 1/2 c. milk choc. chips, and 1/2 c. semi-sweet. I only had milk and 2/3 c. and it came out great. Do it how you want.

Blueberry Pie

2009-03-31T16:27:00.002-07:00

9 in. double pie pastry
4 c. blueberries
1/4 c. plus 1 T. Sugar
3. T. Flour
1 t. grated orange rind
1/4 t. nutmeg
2 T. Orange Juice
1 t. lemon juice

Roll out bottom of pie pastry and place in pie pan. In a bowl combine the blueberries, 1/4 c. sugar, flour, orange rind, and nutmeg. Mix well. Pour into pie crust. Sprinkle juices over berry mixture. Roll our remaining pie dough and place on top. Cut 3 slits in pie crust. Sprinkle with Sugar. Bake for about 45 min. or until pastry is golden brown. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Apple Sauce Wheat Bread

2009-03-28T06:49:00.002-07:00

1 can evaporated milk
4 eggs
2 T. Salt
1/2 c. oil
1/2 c. honey
1/2 c. apple sauce
2 c. hot tap water
2T. yeast dissolved in 1/2 c warm water with 1 T. sugar
4 c. white flour
8 c. whole wheat flour

Combine the first 7 ingredients. Mix well. Add yeast mixture. Add white flour and stir well. Slowly add wheat flour. You may need a little more then 8 cups. Knead till the dough is elastic and smooth. For this to turn our best, knead in a mixer for about 15 min. or by hand for at least 30 min. Let rise for about 1 hour or until double. Form into 5 loaves. Let rise till doubled and bake at 350 for 30-40 min.

Tip: I will let this rise and then punch down and let rise again. That helps any wheat or rye type bread cook up better. You can even do it 3 times if you have the time.

Sour Cream Cinnamon Rolls

2009-03-28T06:36:00.002-07:00

3 c. sour cream
3/4 c. butter
2/3 c. sugar
1 1/2 t. salt
3 eggs
2 T. Yeast dissolved in 1/2 c. warm water.
9-10 c. flour
Melted Butter
Brown Sugar
Cinnamon

Warm the sour cream. In a large bowl place the butter, sugar and salt. Pour the warm sour cream over the butter. Let it sit till butter is melted. Add the eggs and yeast, stir together. Add the flour. Dough should be sticky. Knead it till it is smooth. Your hands will be covered. I knead it right in the bowl(in fact I do this with all breads). Cover and let rise till doubled, about 1 hour. Roll out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Pour melted butter on dough. Sprinkle with Brown Sugar, and Cinnamon. Roll up jelly roll style. Cut into rolls and place on a cookie sheet. Let rise for about 30 min. Bake at 375 for 15-20 min. Let cool and frost with your favorite frosting.

You can use milk instead of sour cream for a healthier version. You will have to increase the flour. I prefer sour cream because they are so moist. I have even added some wheat flour and that is good.

Dinner Rolls

2009-03-28T06:29:00.003-07:00

3 c. scalded milk
2 t. salt
1/2 c. butter
1/3 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 T. yeast dissolved in 1/2 c. warm water
10 to 11 c. flour

Scald milk. In a large bowl add the softened butter, salt, and sugar. When milk is scalded pour over butter. Let it melt the butter and cool for a few minutes. Add the eggs and yeast mixture. Stir till blended. Add the flour. Add enough till it becomes pliable and less sticky. Continue to knead for a few minutes. Cover and let rise till doubled in size, about 1 hour. Form into rolls and dip in melted butter. Place on cookie sheet. Let rise till doubled about 30 min. Bake at 400 for about 15 min, or until golden brown. Baste with more butter. Let cool and eat.

I usually use half wheat flour. It is healthier and we think yummier.

Molasses Swirl Bread

2009-03-28T06:11:00.004-07:00

This bread not only tastes great, but looks wonderful. I always get lots of compliments when I make it.

3 1/4 to 4 c. flour
2 T plus 1 1/2 t. sugar
1 T. yeast
1 1/2 c. warm milk
2 T. plus 1 1/2 t. Crisco

Molasses Dough
2 c. flour
2 T. plus 1 1/2 t. sugar
1 T. yeast
1 1/2 t. salt
1 1/2 c. warm milk
3 T. Molasses. I double it and sometimes more because I love molasses flavor. Just add a bit more flour.
2 T. plus 1 1/2 t. Crisco
2 1/4c. wheat flour.

In a large mixing bowl combine 2 c. flour, the sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk and shortening; beat till smooth. Stir in enough flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 min. Place in a bowl and spray with oil. Cover. Let rise till double, about 1 hour.

For the molasses dough: Combine the flour, sugar, yeast and salt. Add the warm milk, molasses, and shortening. Beat until smooth. Stir in the wheat flour. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for about 15 min. Return to bowl, coat with oil, and let rise for about 1 hour or till doubled in size.

Punch doughs down. Divide each of the doughs in half. Roll one white and one Molasses dough out into a rectangle about 12x8. Place the the molasses dough on top of the white bread. You then roll up the breads jelly roll style. Tuck each end under and place in a bread pan coated with cooking oil. Repeat with the remaining loaf.

Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30-40 min. Bake at 375 for 35-40 min or until browned. Cool for about 10 min and remove to wire racks to continue cooling. Yields 2 loaves.

I have also substituted rye flour for wheat and add caraway seeds to the molasses dough. Jordan loves this. It gives it a slight rye flavor.

Round Peasant Bread

2009-02-26T09:19:00.004-07:00

This bread works really well with soup, spaghetti, lasagna, and for making a baked french toast.

1 Tbsp. dry yeast
2 cups warm water

1 Tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. salt
4 cups flour
Oil
Corn meal
Melted butter

Place yeast, water, sugar, and salt in warm bowl; stir until dissolved. Add four and stir until blended. Do not knead. Cover and let rise 1 hour, or until double in size. Flour hands, remove dough from the bowl, (dough will be very loose, not like a normal bread dough) and place in 2 rounds on oiled sheet sprinkled with corn meal (flour works too, but corn meal really makes it great). Let rise an additional hour (I find it only takes 30 min.) Brush top with melted butter and bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes. Reduce oven to 375 degrees and cook additional 20 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with butter. Serve warm.

Variations: This works great using half whole wheat flour. If using a kitchen aid use the paddle to mix, not the kneading hook. Adding dried herbs would be great.

Chocolate Crackle Cookies

2009-02-26T08:39:00.004-07:00

1/2 c. Crisco
1 2/3 c. Brown Sugar
2 Eggs
1 t. Vanilla
2/3 c. Milk
2 sq. Unsweetened Chocolate, melted
2 c. Flour
2 t. Baking Powder
3/4 t. salt
powder milk

Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla. Add chocolate. Add milk. Add dry ingredients. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Roll in powder sugar. Bake at 350 for about 15 min or until set. Don't over bake.

Couscous Salad

2009-02-12T18:43:00.002-07:00

3/4 cup couscous (uncooked)
1 chicken bouillon cube
1/2 teaspoon dried basil, or 2 teaspoons fresh minced
1/2 pint grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (more or less to taste)
salt and pepper
balsamic vinegar

Cook couscous according to package instructions, adding the chicken bouillon and dried basil.
After couscous is ready stir in tomatoes, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. A couple of drops of balsamic really finishes it off, but is not necessary.
Serve with fish or chicken.

Chocolate Cake Roll

2009-02-04T12:27:00.002-07:00

I have tried a few in the past with OK results, but this is by far the best. It is Delicious.

Ingredients
1/3 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
4 egg yolks
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/3 cup sugar
4 egg whites
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups softened ice cream, or whip cream, or pudding
powdered sugar(to garnish)

Directions
1Grease and lightly flour a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan, and set aside.
2Stir together flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda and set aside.
3In a medium mixing bowl beat egg yolks and vanilla with an electric mixer on high for 5 minutes or till thick and lemon colored.
4Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar beating on high till sugar is almost completely dissolved.
5Thoroughly wash beaters.
6In separate bowl beat egg whites on medium speed till soft peaks form.
7Gradually add the 1/2 cup sugar, beating till stiff peaks form.
8Fold egg yolk mixture in with egg whites.
9Sprinkle flour mixture over egg mixture, folding gently just till combined.
10Spread batter evenly in the pan.
11Bake 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes.
12Cake should spring back when touched lightly.
13Immediately loosen edges of cake and turn over on towel lightly sprinkled with powdered sugar.
14Roll the cake up w/ the towel jelly roll style, short end to short end.
15Cool on wire rack, unroll and spread w/ softened ice cream.
16Roll up again wrap in plastic wrap and freeze at least 2 hours before serving.

I prefer mine with whip cream in the middle. I then serve it either plan, or with berries on it, or with ice cream on the side. This is very good. I doubled the batch and put it in a large cookie sheet. I had to throw some out as there would have been to much for the pan. Maybe 1 1/2 batch would work. I have made these for cake auctions and they usually bring one of the highest amounts. Enjoy!!!

One Pan Cobbler

2009-01-22T11:13:00.004-07:00

Easiest dessert ever!!

1/2 cup butter
1 cup flour
1 cup sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 cup milk
1/4 tsp. salt
1 bottle peaches, or other fruit adding up to about 16 oz.

Melt butter in casserole dish (I use a 9X11). Stir in flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, and salt until all lumps are gone. Strain liquid from fruit and pour over top evenly. DO NOT STIR. Bake at 350 for 1 hour.
The top is golden brown and slightly crunchy! Our favorite combination is peaches with a couple of raspberries served warm with vanilla ice cream.

Grandma Fuller's Tacos

2009-01-14T08:47:00.002-07:00

This is one of our family favorites, and it is so easy. It was one of the recipes Jordan's grandmother was famous for.

2 lbs hamburger
1 green bell pepper diced up
1 small onion diced up
1 pint diced or stewed tomatoes
1 small can chili, chili beans, or I use both it makes more food.

Mix everything together, you don't cook the hamburger. Put in oven at 300 for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally. Serve with tortillas and all the regular taco toppings. This can also be done in a crock pot. It is very flavorful.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

2008-12-05T20:16:00.003-07:00

Sivai even ate this! Works great as a salad too.

Chicken mixture
3 TB oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced onion
1 tsp minced garlic

Lettuce for wraps
bean sprouts
julienned carrots
cilantro
anything else that sounds good :)

Stir Fry Sauce
2 TB soy sauce
2 TB brown sugar
1/2 tsp vinegar, whatever you have

Special Sauce, prepare ahead of time and refrigerate
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
2 TB soy sauce
2 TB vinegar
2 TB ketchup
1 TB lemon juice
2 TB red chile sauce, or red pepper flakes to taste

1.Bring oil to high heat in a wok or large frying pan. Brown on both sides (it's okay if chicken is not cooked through).
2. Remove chicken and dice into 1/2 inch pieces, at the same time add diced onion and celery to hot pan while cutting chicken.
3. Prepare stir fry sauce.
4. Put chicken and stir fry sauce back into pan, stirring so chicken is coated. Cook until chicken is down and vegetables are tender.

Make wraps and enjoy!

Crepes Divine

2008-11-07T16:07:00.003-07:00

I first had this version of Crepes at a restaurant in Canada. I've been dreaming about them ever since...and have made them a few times. They're soooo good. You can use a crepe recipe that you like or this one I like.
Ingredients:
1 cup flour
1 1/2 cups milk
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
Nutella
Fresh Strawberries
Bananas
Whip Cream

Directions:
1. Combine flour, milk, eggs, oil, and salt in a blender and blend!
2. Warm a skillet over medium heat and grease with a little butter
3. Pour some batter in the skillet and swirl around to make a nice circle, dont make it to big unless you can flip really well.
4. Flip when there are bubbles on the top of batter
5. Remove from skillet and immediatly spread with Nutella, put some fresh strawberries and bananas then roll it up. Top with whip cream!

These are DIVINE ladies and are perfect treat for guests!

Potato Soup

2008-11-04T10:52:00.002-07:00

Since the weather has turned I've been craving soup. I pulled the basic recipe for this off of recipezaar, but I ended up changing it quite a bit.

4 cups cubed and peeled potatoes
1 1/2 cups water
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon, or 3 cubes
1/2 cup chopped carrot
1/4 cup chopped onion (finely)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 cups milk
2 cups half-n-half
3 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 cup grated smoked gouda cheese
3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

1. In pot combine potatoes, water, chicken bouillon, carrot, onion, salt, pepper, butter, and rosemary.
2. Cover and simmer until vegetables are tender (15-20).
3. Turn off heat so that the milk doesn't curdle. Add 3 1/2 cups of the milk and half-n-half, heat until hot.
4. Blend flour with 1/2 cup milk and half-n-half stirring till smooth, then stir in soup.
5. Cook, stirring constantly, slowly adding cheese, until smooth and bubbly. If you want you can reserve some of the cheese to put on each serving.

I know the smoked gouda is a weird addition but it's great!!!

Fabulous French Bread

2008-10-26T16:19:00.003-07:00

This is yummy, but takes some time as all bread does.

2 1/2 c. very hot water.
2 T. Yeast'
2 T. Sugar

Mix together and let sit for 3-5 min. Add

1 T Salt
2 T. Olive Oil
3 C. Flour

Stir together for 3 min. with a mixer or 5 min. by hand. Then add:

3 C. Flour

Stir/Knead till well blended. Knead it for a while by hand or about 3 min. in a mixer.

Let rise in a warm place for 10 min. Stir it down. Let rise for another 10 min. and then stir down. Do this a total of 5 times. Divide into two halves. Take each ball and shape into a long loaf about 12 in. in length.(They are long skinny loaves) Place on a cookie sheet that has been oiled and sprinkled with corn meal. Let rise for about 30 min. Brush with egg yolks for a crunchy crust or with butter for a soft crust. Bake at 400 for 25-35 min. or until browned and hallow sounding.

Lasagna

2008-10-26T16:09:00.003-07:00

This recipe is for my friend Michelle. She said she never made lasagna because it was to hard. I told her I would post this so she could try it and see if she liked it. I think it is fairly easy and yummy.

1 lbs hamburger
1 box lasagna noodles, I like the wheat ones
1 15 oz can of tomato sauce
1 15 oz can of diced tomatoes
dried spaghetti seasoning or oregano and basil
1 16-22 oz can of cottage cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Cheddar cheese
zucchini or other squash
1 egg

Brown hamburger with pepper, garlic and onion powders(no salt as the cheese is salty enough). Pour half of the tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes on the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan. Sprinkle with spaghetti seasoning generously. Place noodles on top. Add half the hamburger. Mix the cottage cheese and egg and then spoon half of it over the hamburger. Add the thinly sliced zucchini or squash. Sprinkle with both cheese. Repeat the layers. Bake at 350 for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Enjoy. I love it with grean beans and french bread. I will add that recipe too.

Crock pot Hamburger Casserole

2008-10-24T07:04:00.003-07:00

I got this recipe off recipezaar and changed it a little. It turned out really tasty, but not really like a casserole.

4 medium potatoes
1 lb. hamburger
1 can cream of mushroom or celery soup
1/2 soup cap milk
1 small onion
dried rosemary
salt
pepper

Dice onion, add to pan and brown hamburger, drain fat. Slice potatoes into 1/4 inch rounds (skin off or on). Mix soup and milk until smooth. Spray crock pot. Layer in potatoes and hamburger. On each layer of potatoes sprinkle generously with salt pepper and rosemary. On top of layers pour soup mixture and season.
Cook on high for 2.5-3 hours, or low for about 6.

Stuffing Apple Pork Chops

2008-10-20T15:22:00.002-07:00

Mom gave this to me. I don't know if you have it, but it is very good and easy.

1 pkg. stuffing
4 pork chops
1 jar apple sauce(I use my home made sauce that is chunky and has Cinnamon in it)

Pour dry stuffing in baking pan. Add the water that the stuffing recipe calls for. Place chops on top of stuffing. Pour apple sauce over the chops. Bake at 350 till done. About 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours depending on the thickness of the chops. Enjoy.

Mom's Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-10-17T19:45:00.003-07:00

This is the basic version I got from Mom when we first got married. They turn our perfect every time!

2 sticks butter or margarine
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
2 eggs
3 1/4 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 package chocolate chips

Cream butter and sugars. Mix in eggs until incorporated. Mix in dry ingredients. Dough will be stiff. Make tablespoon size balls and bake at 350 degrees for 8-10. Do not overbake!! As soon as there is some color take them out of oven. Cool for one minute and transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Easy Hamburger Soup

2008-10-14T13:55:00.002-07:00

This is a fast easy soup to make, and it tastes great. You can make it however you like to fit your families taste buds. It is also very healthy with all the vegetables.

1 lbs hamburger browned, with garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
Add water, start with 3 cups and 2 beef bullion cubes. Add 2 bay leaves.
Add potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, tomatoes, zucchini or squash, red or green bell peppers, or any other vegetables that you like.
Add more water to cover all the vegetables if needed. Bring to a boil. Let simmer till the carrots and potatoes are softened. If you like things spicy add some Cayenne pepper or Tabasco sauce.

Smoked Salmon Spread

2008-10-10T07:55:00.003-07:00

An easy way to eat up Smoked Salmon

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
Smoked Salmon, about 8-10 oz. de-boned and flaked
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 Tablespoons minced fresh parsley (1 teaspoon dried)

Soften cream cheese, add Worcestershire sauce, cheese, and parsley and mix. Fold in Smoked salmon. Serve on crackers or toasted bread.

Alfredo plus

2008-10-01T17:27:00.003-07:00

We also love the classic version of Chicken fettuccine alfredo. I've also started making a slightly more healthy version with bacon, zucchini, tomatoes, and garlic. Just crisp up some bacon, add 1 1/2 cups diced fresh tomato, 1 medium sliced zucchini and saute with 1 teaspoon garlic. Add everything (noodles, sauce, bacon mix) to a large pot and let simmer for one minute.

Bridgette's Alfredo Sauce-Family Favorite

2008-10-01T10:44:00.004-07:00

I called Bridgette the other day for this recipe since I haven't made it in awhile. I made this recipe so much when Nick and I were dating that he thought this was the only thing I could cook. Needless to say, we both love it!! Bridgette, please make any additions or corrections.

1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. heavy whipping cream (I use fat free 1/2 and 1/2)
3/4 c. grated parmesan cheese
dash of salt and pepper
Chicken breasts
2 cloves garlic

Heat butter and cream over low heat (do not boil). Slowly and I mean slowly, add small spoonfulls of parmesan cheese while constantly stirring. This will help the texture be smoother. Cook chicken with olive oil and crushed garlic until golden. Serve with whatever pasta you fancy. (I normally double or triple recipe for leftovers). Enjoy!!

Pretzel Salad or Dessert

2008-10-01T10:29:00.003-07:00

Ingredients:
1 c. crushed pretzels
2Tbsp. sugar
1/2 c. melted butter
1 (8oz.) pkg cream cheese
1 c. sugar
1 small container whipped topping, thawed
1 large pkg. strawberry jello
2 c.hot water
1/2 c. cold water
1 large pkg. frozen strawberries

Combine pretzels, 2Tbsp. sugar, and butter; press into a greased 9X13 inch pan. Bake at 350F for 8 minutes; cool. Combine cream cheese, 1c. sugar, and whipped topping. Spread over pretzel layer. Dissolve gelatine in hot water; add cold water and allow to stand to semi-gel stage. Add frozen strawberries. Pour over cream cheese layer and refrigerate until firm (this last step takes awhile, overnight is a great idea). Yumm Yumm, you've gotta try it!

Rustic Autumn Fruit Tart

2008-09-30T05:31:00.003-07:00

This is a new recipe I found in my new Taste of Home. I haven't actually tried it yet, but I bet it is wonderful. I was going to make it for the Elders last Friday, but they canceled so now I am going to make it for them this Friday. It is a good way to use fresh fruit in the fall.

1/2 c butter
4 oz cream cheese softened
1 1/2c flour
2 large apples peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium pear peeled and thinly sliced
4 1/2 t. cornstarch
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/4 t. cardamon(very expensive I would just use cloves or cut it out altogether.)
1/4 t. nutmeg
1/4 c. orange juice
1/3 c. packed brown sugar
1/2 c. apricot jam

Beat butter and cream cheese till smooth. Slowly add flour just until mixture forms a ball. Refrigerate for 1 hour. In another bowl, combine the apples and pears. In another bowl mix the cornstarch and spices. Stir in the orange juice and brown sugar. Mix until well blended and then pour over the apples and pears.
On a ligthly floured surface roll the dough out in a 14 in. circle. Transfer to a parchment lined baking sheet. Spoon filling over it leaving a 2 in. edge. Fold the edge up over the filling, leaving an opening. It looks like a pastry bowl holding the fruit in the picture.
Bake at 375 for 40-45 min or until crust is golden and filling is bubbly. Spread w/ apricot jam, and enjoy.

Scalloped Potatoes Dinner

2008-09-29T21:13:00.004-07:00

Lisa turned me on to this recipe and I've already made it twice. The first time I made it in the crock-pot without the onion, pepper, and ham. I mixed it up as directed (omitting the cheese), sprayed my pot and let it cook on low for 4-5 hours. I then added the cheese on top and vented the lid for another hour.
The second time I followed the directions almost exactly (only a tiny bit of onion and maybe 3/4 lb ham) and it was wonderful! Patrick even said, "Wow, this is really good!"
Recipe courtesy of recipezaar.com

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup flour
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3 cups milk
3 cups ham, cooked
1 large green pepper, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
5 cups potatoes, pared and sliced
Directions
1Melt butter in large sauce pan over low heat; blend in flour, salt, and pepper.

2Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. Remove from heat gradually stir in milk.

3Return to heat; cook until thickened and bubbly.

4Fold in ham, onion, green pepper and cheese. Pour over potatoes in a large bowl.

5Stir gently then move into a buttered 13X4-inch baking dish; cover with foil.

6Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

7Uncover and continue to bake for 1 hour.

8Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.