Today our thermometer (which is a professional) reads 117 degrees!!! Can you even believe? We lived in Mesa Az for 10 years and I seriously thought that was the hottest place on earth BUT now I know............its OKLAHOMA!!! Two years ago I planted two fir trees. One on each side of our big windows in the front of our house.........they are burned to a crisp!! Not from lack of water.........as we faithfully watered them but due to the heat reflecting off the front of the rock on our house and has just baked them! I am almost to give up watering my flowers........really hard to keep up with them. AND it looks like this is going to continue. Bob has threatened to tie our mattress on top of the car and head for California.........back to the dust bowl days!!!
This is the easiest dessert in the world but so good and great to prepare ahead for guests. You know those chocolate wafers by Nabisco? Very hard to find here.........Misty, my daughter sent me four boxes as I used them to make chocolate crusts too. Just whip up a cup of cream.......and start layering cream and chocolate cookies.........until you have a roll like the picture on the box. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.........good to make the night before. Slice to serve..........really nice to top with fresh raspberries. This has always been a family favorite in our house.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
WHOLE HAWG DAYS AND PEACHES
This weekend in Eufaula is Whole Hawg Days. The annual celebration with carnival, rodeo, parade and lots of barbecue. I am sorry that it is so hot.......afraid the participation may be down a bit........at least the old people will be home under the air conditioning! The bbq sandwiches are free to the public...........but just can't do the "line" thing. We are fortunate that we grow lots of local peaches and boy are they coming on. Vender's along side the road are selling their wonderful sweet produce. So today made a good old fashioned cobbler. I am sure everyone knows how to make cobbler but just in case.......here's my old, old recipe
Peel and slice about 4 to 5 big peaches........In a pan mix 1/3 cup sugar, about 1 (maybe more) Tblsp cornstarch, and a dash of salt.......I add just a trinkle of water so as not to burn......dump in your peaches and cook and stir til thick and bubbly. Pour into a buttered casserole. In another bowl mix 1 cup (more in using lots of fruit) 2 Tbslp sugar, 3 Tblsp milk and 2 Tblsp melted butter. Mix this up and drop in dollop's onto the hot peaches.......sprinkle with a little sugar........and bake at 400 degrees about 25 minutes. If you have some fresh raspberries you can throw those in too.............I love this with real cream poured on top............there goes the waistline!! LOL
Peel and slice about 4 to 5 big peaches........In a pan mix 1/3 cup sugar, about 1 (maybe more) Tblsp cornstarch, and a dash of salt.......I add just a trinkle of water so as not to burn......dump in your peaches and cook and stir til thick and bubbly. Pour into a buttered casserole. In another bowl mix 1 cup (more in using lots of fruit) 2 Tbslp sugar, 3 Tblsp milk and 2 Tblsp melted butter. Mix this up and drop in dollop's onto the hot peaches.......sprinkle with a little sugar........and bake at 400 degrees about 25 minutes. If you have some fresh raspberries you can throw those in too.............I love this with real cream poured on top............there goes the waistline!! LOL
Thursday, July 28, 2011
BACK HOME AND TOMATO AND CHEESE PIE
I'm baaaaaaaaaaack.............! Happy for a few days in cool country and happy to be home! Had fun helping the grand kids to fish for brookies and loved seeing family and friends. I came home to record setting hot............everything is burned to a crisp. My flowers on the front side of the house just aren't going to make it.........actually not sure if it is the heat or if my little husband just forgot to water them.............sigh. The okra and tomatoes and my dill, rosemary, thyme and basil are flourishing. We have enough okra to feed all surrounding neighbors........okra loves this heat! But....... speaking of tomatoes........this time of the year we really need to take advantage of all the fresh vegys..........and tomatoes top the list. I just love a cheese and tomato pie.........this recipe is sort of a mixture of mine and one from Bon Appetit.
Make (or buy) your favorite pie crust. Not sure how to tell you how many tomatoes you need but at least 4 big ones.........nice and ripe and sliced about 1/4". Take some paper towels and lay the cut tomatoes on the paper towels, placing some towels on top........to absorb as much liquid as possible. Let stand while you get everything else ready. This is important or your pie will be too juicy. You need about 2 big cups of grated cheddar cheese........I like extra sharp or at least sharp..........and about 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Mix the cheeses tog. In a bowl mix: a finely chopped green onion........all of it........and about 1/2 cup mayo, some chopped fresh dill, about a Tblsp of vinegar, about a Tbslp of sugar and salt and pepper. Now, roll out your pie crust.........extra big........you want overhang.......to fold over the pie like a "rustic" pie. Carefully place in your pie tin and sprinkle the bottom with cornmeal. Now sprinkle some of the grated cheese over and add one layer of your beautifully sliced tomatoes, over lapping if you need to. Spread about half of the mayo mixture over the tomatoes and then another good handful of the cheese mixture. Again........more tomatoes, the rest of the mayo mix and one more cheese mix and one more layer of tomatoes, lastly a good sprinkling of what is left of the cheese mixture. Fold the overhang of pie crust up over the pie. Bake at 425 degrees for about 35 minutes. This is just mouth watering...........You won't want to but you must let this sit about an hour before trying to cut it. The smell in your kitchen will be wonderful!!
Make (or buy) your favorite pie crust. Not sure how to tell you how many tomatoes you need but at least 4 big ones.........nice and ripe and sliced about 1/4". Take some paper towels and lay the cut tomatoes on the paper towels, placing some towels on top........to absorb as much liquid as possible. Let stand while you get everything else ready. This is important or your pie will be too juicy. You need about 2 big cups of grated cheddar cheese........I like extra sharp or at least sharp..........and about 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Mix the cheeses tog. In a bowl mix: a finely chopped green onion........all of it........and about 1/2 cup mayo, some chopped fresh dill, about a Tblsp of vinegar, about a Tbslp of sugar and salt and pepper. Now, roll out your pie crust.........extra big........you want overhang.......to fold over the pie like a "rustic" pie. Carefully place in your pie tin and sprinkle the bottom with cornmeal. Now sprinkle some of the grated cheese over and add one layer of your beautifully sliced tomatoes, over lapping if you need to. Spread about half of the mayo mixture over the tomatoes and then another good handful of the cheese mixture. Again........more tomatoes, the rest of the mayo mix and one more cheese mix and one more layer of tomatoes, lastly a good sprinkling of what is left of the cheese mixture. Fold the overhang of pie crust up over the pie. Bake at 425 degrees for about 35 minutes. This is just mouth watering...........You won't want to but you must let this sit about an hour before trying to cut it. The smell in your kitchen will be wonderful!!
Monday, July 18, 2011
STILL HOT........STILL INTO ICE CREAM.......HERES SOME HINTS
Its still hot here........getting so tired of saying that........but it is! So my mind is still on ice cream. Not sure how many of you still make ice cream in the old fashioned freezers since the new modern ones don't require ice but these hints can apply to both.
After you get your mixture ready to use in your freezer.........good idea to put in frig for overnight.
If you are using ice.........use 8 parts ice to one part course salt......the finer the crushed ice the smoother the ice cream. Fill your freezer only 3/4 full. Start your motor and let run 2 min before adding the ice........Sprinkle about 3 inches of ice in the bottom then a layer of salt.......repeat this til full. Add ice as you go...........TOO much salt will cause ice cream to freeze too fast. You're ready to go. Can you even believe how involved that was!?!? Thank goodness I have the new kind you just put the bowl in the freezer!
I am so into no cook ice cream but with really good vanilla........you do need to make a custard. In a good size pot add 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup WHOLE milk, 3/4 cup sugar and a dash of salt. Take 3 vanilla beans (and boy are they expensive in the states!!! so don't make any mistakes) Split them lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and into your mixture. Bring just to a boil. Whisk 2 eggs in a large bowl........add the hot cream mixture in a slow stream, whisking as you go. Pour mixture back into the pan on the stove and cook over med/ low heat, stirring until slightly thickened......about 170 degrees on thermometer. Now........you really should strain this into a bowl........I never do.......but if you are a purest.......go for it. Otherwise, just put into a bowl and cool. When cool enough.......put in frig for about 3 hours before you put into your ice cream freezer.........this is soooooooo good.
Now........heres a no cook..........its good alright........just not quite as good as the above..but easier. Beat 2 eggs and 1 cup sugar tog. Add 2 cups milk and 2 cups heavy cream, 2 tsp vanilla, and a dash of salt........mix all of this real good and pour into your ice cream freezer. With this one.......if you wanted to add strawberries, raspberries or any fruit.......just take out the 2 cups of milk and add 2 cups of the fruit sort of pureed.......or just mush it up a bit..
This is a fun recipe that is really good for a change. This tells you how old this recipe is........its called Dinah Shores 3 of 6 ice cream!!!! Does anyone remember Dinah Shore?? This makes quite a bit........might want to cut in half.
3 bananas mashed, 3 lemons-juice of, 3 oranges-juice of.......add to........3 cups sugar, 3 cups of milk and 3 cups of half 'n half........Stir til sugar dissolves.......pour into your ice cream freezer.
Well, I am taking a small break for a bit...........but will be back on my blog in a few days........thanks for reading..........Love doing it and love hearing from all of you!
After you get your mixture ready to use in your freezer.........good idea to put in frig for overnight.
If you are using ice.........use 8 parts ice to one part course salt......the finer the crushed ice the smoother the ice cream. Fill your freezer only 3/4 full. Start your motor and let run 2 min before adding the ice........Sprinkle about 3 inches of ice in the bottom then a layer of salt.......repeat this til full. Add ice as you go...........TOO much salt will cause ice cream to freeze too fast. You're ready to go. Can you even believe how involved that was!?!? Thank goodness I have the new kind you just put the bowl in the freezer!
I am so into no cook ice cream but with really good vanilla........you do need to make a custard. In a good size pot add 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup WHOLE milk, 3/4 cup sugar and a dash of salt. Take 3 vanilla beans (and boy are they expensive in the states!!! so don't make any mistakes) Split them lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and into your mixture. Bring just to a boil. Whisk 2 eggs in a large bowl........add the hot cream mixture in a slow stream, whisking as you go. Pour mixture back into the pan on the stove and cook over med/ low heat, stirring until slightly thickened......about 170 degrees on thermometer. Now........you really should strain this into a bowl........I never do.......but if you are a purest.......go for it. Otherwise, just put into a bowl and cool. When cool enough.......put in frig for about 3 hours before you put into your ice cream freezer.........this is soooooooo good.
Now........heres a no cook..........its good alright........just not quite as good as the above..but easier. Beat 2 eggs and 1 cup sugar tog. Add 2 cups milk and 2 cups heavy cream, 2 tsp vanilla, and a dash of salt........mix all of this real good and pour into your ice cream freezer. With this one.......if you wanted to add strawberries, raspberries or any fruit.......just take out the 2 cups of milk and add 2 cups of the fruit sort of pureed.......or just mush it up a bit..
This is a fun recipe that is really good for a change. This tells you how old this recipe is........its called Dinah Shores 3 of 6 ice cream!!!! Does anyone remember Dinah Shore?? This makes quite a bit........might want to cut in half.
3 bananas mashed, 3 lemons-juice of, 3 oranges-juice of.......add to........3 cups sugar, 3 cups of milk and 3 cups of half 'n half........Stir til sugar dissolves.......pour into your ice cream freezer.
Well, I am taking a small break for a bit...........but will be back on my blog in a few days........thanks for reading..........Love doing it and love hearing from all of you!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
LOOKS LIKE A FISH AND CHIPS DAY
Its our Nascar Race today............try to think of something special to eat during the race. Today I zeroed in on English Style Fish and Chips.
Cut your potatoes nice and thickk for the chips.......about the size of your finger. Set those aside in a bowl of water while you prepare your fish. I hope you have access to cod but if not........you can use any firm white fish. You need a bowl for the batter and a pie tin for your flour. Go ahead and fry your chips........you don't want to mix your batter until you are ready to use it. Fry the chips and set aside.......you will refry them. In your bowl.......put about 1 1/2 cups flour (depending on how much fish you are cooking) about 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp of kosher salt, about 2 Tblsp milk, 1 beaten egg and 1 cup of so of beer........whisk all tog to make a batter that is quite thin.......about like whipping cream.........so now dip your fish in the flour and then in the batter and then back in the flour and then into the hot oil! That's it............Believe me this is authentic........So when all the fish is fried.........refry the chips for just a minute and serve with Malt Vinegar..........if you really want to be authentic take a brown paper bag and cut into squares........roll up like a cone........put chips in bottom, then fish.........sprinkle all generously with salt and malt vinegar. This is the best dish the English ever invented!
Cut your potatoes nice and thickk for the chips.......about the size of your finger. Set those aside in a bowl of water while you prepare your fish. I hope you have access to cod but if not........you can use any firm white fish. You need a bowl for the batter and a pie tin for your flour. Go ahead and fry your chips........you don't want to mix your batter until you are ready to use it. Fry the chips and set aside.......you will refry them. In your bowl.......put about 1 1/2 cups flour (depending on how much fish you are cooking) about 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp of kosher salt, about 2 Tblsp milk, 1 beaten egg and 1 cup of so of beer........whisk all tog to make a batter that is quite thin.......about like whipping cream.........so now dip your fish in the flour and then in the batter and then back in the flour and then into the hot oil! That's it............Believe me this is authentic........So when all the fish is fried.........refry the chips for just a minute and serve with Malt Vinegar..........if you really want to be authentic take a brown paper bag and cut into squares........roll up like a cone........put chips in bottom, then fish.........sprinkle all generously with salt and malt vinegar. This is the best dish the English ever invented!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
FLEA MARKET AND LYNNE'S PASTA SALAD
Weekends in Eufaula are flea market days.........it really is fun to dig through all of the stuff people have for sale. I honestly don't know if the people really want to sell their stuff as much as they just enjoy the social event. After they get to know you.......they really enjoy just visiting. Its fun to just mill around.
As you know if you see the weather channel........we are in serious trouble here......we are the very center of the hottest weather in the US and have been for a month now!! We have only had a very small sprinkle of rain.......during that whole time. In Cabo when we went through drought time........I always felt so sorry for the little animals trying to survive. At least here........we have the Lake.......so I know they can all find water. The shore line of this lake is 640 miles!!
So today am barbecuing pork and making a pasta salad for me...........Bob wants french fries!! He is on a french fry kick for some reason.........I just made this salad up.......so easy........I boiled small shell pasta......drained.......added chopped green onions, a bit of my fresh thyme and basil, sliced grape tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice......oh and I sprinkled it with crushed chili tepines. Also some chopped green olives. Then I put a bunch of Parmesan shavings on top. So good and light.............no french fries for me..........I'll save my calories for a peach ice cream cone!!
As you know if you see the weather channel........we are in serious trouble here......we are the very center of the hottest weather in the US and have been for a month now!! We have only had a very small sprinkle of rain.......during that whole time. In Cabo when we went through drought time........I always felt so sorry for the little animals trying to survive. At least here........we have the Lake.......so I know they can all find water. The shore line of this lake is 640 miles!!
So today am barbecuing pork and making a pasta salad for me...........Bob wants french fries!! He is on a french fry kick for some reason.........I just made this salad up.......so easy........I boiled small shell pasta......drained.......added chopped green onions, a bit of my fresh thyme and basil, sliced grape tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice......oh and I sprinkled it with crushed chili tepines. Also some chopped green olives. Then I put a bunch of Parmesan shavings on top. So good and light.............no french fries for me..........I'll save my calories for a peach ice cream cone!!
Friday, July 15, 2011
FRIED GREEN TOMATOES.......REMEMBER I NOW LIVE IN THE SOUTH!
What a nice surprise.........the mail lady showed up at my front door with a huge box from my daughter Misty Sue...........a care package.........actually it had a Mothers Day card in the box.....that she forgot to sign! LOL..........she does remind me of me..........sigh. The box was full of fun surprises........things I really need, that I can't get here.........and I never even mentioned them to her............she just knew. Love my kids!
Yes, I even liked Fried Green Tomatoes.......before I moved to the south. If you haven't tried them.......they are crispy on the outside, soft and tart on the inside........a flavor all their own.
You need about 2-4 large green tomatoes. Slice them about 1/4 of an inch thick. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Pour some buttermilk in a pie tin........in another pie tin mix, about a cup of cornmeal with about a cup of flour and some creole seasoning.......at least a shot of cayenne. Then put another pie tin with just plain flour in it.........Okay, get your grease ready.....heat up about 2" of grease in a skillet til just hot but not smoking.......Dip your tomato slice into the plain flour, then the buttermilk, then the cornmeal mixture. Fry two or three at a time about 3 min on each side...........remove to paper towell. This just made my mouth water!
This is a great dip for them......just spread a little on each bite.......Just mix tog all of the following:
3/4 cup mayo, a Tblsp of dijon mustard, a Tblsp of finely chopped bread and butter pickles, about 1 Tblps lemon juice, a shot of Tabasco, salt and pepper.
I really love learning all the different recipes that these great Southern ladies cook! More to come.
Yes, I even liked Fried Green Tomatoes.......before I moved to the south. If you haven't tried them.......they are crispy on the outside, soft and tart on the inside........a flavor all their own.
You need about 2-4 large green tomatoes. Slice them about 1/4 of an inch thick. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Pour some buttermilk in a pie tin........in another pie tin mix, about a cup of cornmeal with about a cup of flour and some creole seasoning.......at least a shot of cayenne. Then put another pie tin with just plain flour in it.........Okay, get your grease ready.....heat up about 2" of grease in a skillet til just hot but not smoking.......Dip your tomato slice into the plain flour, then the buttermilk, then the cornmeal mixture. Fry two or three at a time about 3 min on each side...........remove to paper towell. This just made my mouth water!
This is a great dip for them......just spread a little on each bite.......Just mix tog all of the following:
3/4 cup mayo, a Tblsp of dijon mustard, a Tblsp of finely chopped bread and butter pickles, about 1 Tblps lemon juice, a shot of Tabasco, salt and pepper.
I really love learning all the different recipes that these great Southern ladies cook! More to come.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
LITTLE MEXICAN CASSEROLE AND LAZY DAY
We were only blessed with that little tiny bit of rain..........each day hoping that it will cloud up again and give us a little more.........but no luck. Our temps just go up and up.............I will always use the excuse that this is why I am sooooooo lazy. This is why Mexicans have siesta......having lived there...........I totally understand. Our minds are on hold from about 2:00 to 4 or 5:00. Speaking of Mexico. This was our dinner today, an easy, quick little Mexican casserole.
I made this with burger but may be better with chicken. In the bottom of a glass casserole dish, spread some salsa verde.......then fry quickly about 6 corn tortillas........just enough to soften. Lay a couple of those on top of the salsa and cut or tear enough to fill in holes. Then spoon over your hamburger (seasoned with chili powdered and salt) or your shredded chicken. Then place on top of the burger some strips of pablano chilis........These may be hard to find......so you can use Anaheim's that you have cut into strips. Now spread a little more salsa verde and then dot with dollops of sour cream. Then repeat the whole thing again........tortillas, meat, chili strips, salsa and sour cream..........Top this all with grated jack or cheddar cheese.......throw in oven at 375 for about 35 minutes. Quick and easy. Bob had a taco to go along with. Oh, and he had guacamole to go along with.........and refried beans.......I guess that was it.
I made this with burger but may be better with chicken. In the bottom of a glass casserole dish, spread some salsa verde.......then fry quickly about 6 corn tortillas........just enough to soften. Lay a couple of those on top of the salsa and cut or tear enough to fill in holes. Then spoon over your hamburger (seasoned with chili powdered and salt) or your shredded chicken. Then place on top of the burger some strips of pablano chilis........These may be hard to find......so you can use Anaheim's that you have cut into strips. Now spread a little more salsa verde and then dot with dollops of sour cream. Then repeat the whole thing again........tortillas, meat, chili strips, salsa and sour cream..........Top this all with grated jack or cheddar cheese.......throw in oven at 375 for about 35 minutes. Quick and easy. Bob had a taco to go along with. Oh, and he had guacamole to go along with.........and refried beans.......I guess that was it.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
RAIN, RAIN, RAIN!! AND A BEAN/TUNA SALAD
Well, I exaggerated a bit..........it DID finally rain yesterday afternoon.........which was absolutely delightful but still need more......didn't last quite long enough. I won't complain........it cooled the air down and just to have clouds was wonderful........Bob sat out at the patio table until he was soaked!
Today has been a cooking day.......I guess the chg in temp has given me a spurt of energy. First thing I did was make my fresh peach ice cream.......if you haven't tried it yet......go back in my archives and find it.........I cannot even explain how good it is! Its in the freezer waiting for me. Then I realized that my garden is being taken over by my basil..........so cut it way back and made basil pesto.......also in my archive........soooooo good. I love it on angle hair pasta.....and nothing else. Maybe for a snack tonite! Did you know that you can freeze your basil? So, if you happen to have as much as I do.......make a bunch and freeze it for winter. Then I was trying to make room in my freezer for my peach ice cream and ran across a container of plum juice that I had frozen......left over from when I made my plum jam. So melted the juice in a big pot, added a bunch of sugar and a little light Karo........making syrup for ice cream and waffles!!
For dinner.......I ran across this recipe........it now will be one of our very favorite salads. So quick and easy and light and healthy. Dump in a nice glass bowl a drained can of tuna. Now, this brings me to an important opinion of mine. Do you know how much more flavor there is in tuna that is packed in oil??? Just drain the oil off........but twice the flavor as tuna packed in water. I can't imagine why that little fad came about. But after I moved from Mx I found it really hard to find tuna packed in oil...........oh, how the world has changed. Back to the salad........so now you have a can of drained tuna, dump in a can of good white beans, drained. Then chop a fresh cucumber in little tiny pieces and dump that in and the final winning ingredient is a lots of capers! This is so good! Just before you serve it squeeze on some fresh lemon juice. You can add some olive oil if you didn't use tuna packed in oil. Bob likes a bit of red wine vinegar on his. This is great the next day too.
Today has been a cooking day.......I guess the chg in temp has given me a spurt of energy. First thing I did was make my fresh peach ice cream.......if you haven't tried it yet......go back in my archives and find it.........I cannot even explain how good it is! Its in the freezer waiting for me. Then I realized that my garden is being taken over by my basil..........so cut it way back and made basil pesto.......also in my archive........soooooo good. I love it on angle hair pasta.....and nothing else. Maybe for a snack tonite! Did you know that you can freeze your basil? So, if you happen to have as much as I do.......make a bunch and freeze it for winter. Then I was trying to make room in my freezer for my peach ice cream and ran across a container of plum juice that I had frozen......left over from when I made my plum jam. So melted the juice in a big pot, added a bunch of sugar and a little light Karo........making syrup for ice cream and waffles!!
For dinner.......I ran across this recipe........it now will be one of our very favorite salads. So quick and easy and light and healthy. Dump in a nice glass bowl a drained can of tuna. Now, this brings me to an important opinion of mine. Do you know how much more flavor there is in tuna that is packed in oil??? Just drain the oil off........but twice the flavor as tuna packed in water. I can't imagine why that little fad came about. But after I moved from Mx I found it really hard to find tuna packed in oil...........oh, how the world has changed. Back to the salad........so now you have a can of drained tuna, dump in a can of good white beans, drained. Then chop a fresh cucumber in little tiny pieces and dump that in and the final winning ingredient is a lots of capers! This is so good! Just before you serve it squeeze on some fresh lemon juice. You can add some olive oil if you didn't use tuna packed in oil. Bob likes a bit of red wine vinegar on his. This is great the next day too.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
STUFFED PORKCHOPS AND A LITTLE ENERGY
Of course we are setting records here in Oklahoma for this excessive heat.......still no relief in sight...........sigh. I did break down and make cookies yesterday. I only made two batches so the oven was only on for 30 min. I made choc chip..........I always make 6 of them without chips for the dogs........they definitely know the word "cookie"! They want to go outside so badly but the minute they are out.........and they hit that heat.......they want back in............me too.
We haven't had pork chops for awhile so found some nice thick ones and decided to stuff them. Not with dressing but with garlic and green onions. Lay your pork chop on the bone end with the fat side up........cut a small slit with a sharp knife and then widen the pocket with the tip of the knife. In a small skillet, melt some butter and saute some coarsely chopped garlic and sliced green onions.........remove from heat and when cool enough stuff the garlic and onion into the pocket you just made. Now brown your salt and peppered pork chops real good on both sides. Set your oven at 350 and cover your skillet and place in the oven about 15 min. Remember there is nothing worse than a dry pork chop.........you want it to be moist. AND it is not necessary to cook a pork chop til hard as a rock...........a little pink in the middle is the way to go........pink says moist. Serve with some mashed potatoes or just a great fresh vegy salad.
We haven't had pork chops for awhile so found some nice thick ones and decided to stuff them. Not with dressing but with garlic and green onions. Lay your pork chop on the bone end with the fat side up........cut a small slit with a sharp knife and then widen the pocket with the tip of the knife. In a small skillet, melt some butter and saute some coarsely chopped garlic and sliced green onions.........remove from heat and when cool enough stuff the garlic and onion into the pocket you just made. Now brown your salt and peppered pork chops real good on both sides. Set your oven at 350 and cover your skillet and place in the oven about 15 min. Remember there is nothing worse than a dry pork chop.........you want it to be moist. AND it is not necessary to cook a pork chop til hard as a rock...........a little pink in the middle is the way to go........pink says moist. Serve with some mashed potatoes or just a great fresh vegy salad.
Monday, July 11, 2011
ANOTHER SUMMER SALAD AND NO ENERGY
Our beautiful green acre......isn't that the name of a show?........is brown.......everything is brown. No rain for weeks now and temp way over a 100 everyday! Why is it that we are in the wonderful air conditioning........but still have NO energy.........is it an excuse? All I really want to do is get in my matching recliner, next to Bob in his.........of course he is sleeping......and just do nothing. Still hungry for cookies, cake and pie..........and of course ice cream. Going to make fresh peach ice cream in the morning.........peaches need one more day.
So I saw Ina Garton make this on tv and looked so good........had to try it. Take a couple containers of cherry or grape tomatoes........slice them in half and place in a big bowl and add about a Tblsp of minced garlic (I hope you make this from fresh garlic and not that bottled stuff) some basil leaves sliced up...a sprinkling of red pepper flakes and salt and sprinkle with a little olive oil. Toss this all tog and cover with plastic wrap and let stand at room temp about 4 hours.......this makes its own delightful juice. When ready to eat.......boil up some angle hair pasta in a little olive oil and lots of salt..........drain and add immediately to the bowl of tomatoes. Add about 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil leaves sliced and toss and serve. This is really a nice hot day salad. Oh, and shave a little fresh Parmesan on top. I have to fight Bob from adding Hot Links wrapped in bacon........to this..........but I won.
So I saw Ina Garton make this on tv and looked so good........had to try it. Take a couple containers of cherry or grape tomatoes........slice them in half and place in a big bowl and add about a Tblsp of minced garlic (I hope you make this from fresh garlic and not that bottled stuff) some basil leaves sliced up...a sprinkling of red pepper flakes and salt and sprinkle with a little olive oil. Toss this all tog and cover with plastic wrap and let stand at room temp about 4 hours.......this makes its own delightful juice. When ready to eat.......boil up some angle hair pasta in a little olive oil and lots of salt..........drain and add immediately to the bowl of tomatoes. Add about 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil leaves sliced and toss and serve. This is really a nice hot day salad. Oh, and shave a little fresh Parmesan on top. I have to fight Bob from adding Hot Links wrapped in bacon........to this..........but I won.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
TACO SALAD
Its still so hot and miserable........I'm sure all of you in Portland and Seattle are really sick of hearing about this heat!! Oh, well. Its so strange that the only things I am hungry for are sweets. I would love to bake a cake or pie with fresh fruit but hate to turn on the oven. Today decided on taco salad.......one of my favorites. I make mine a bit different than most places I have eaten it.
I brown my burger and add lots of chili powder and salt and cumin. When browned I add a can of drained kidney beans.........put a lid on and just let sit til ready. I make a basic salad in a nice wooden salad bowl.........chopped lettuce, red onion, grape tomatoes cut in half, some whole black olives and grated jack cheese. When ready I crush purchased tortilla chips. So, in my bowl I put the salad, the cheese and dump the hamburger and beans and crushed chips on top. Mix it up well and instead of salsa I like an Italian type salad dressing.......just the right tang. Now, I keep all of these things separate because Bob doesn't do the salad thing..........he warms some tortillas for a bit on top of the hamburger bean mixture.........then he fills the tortilla with the burger mix, cheese and salad on top........then a little salsa. Basically its just a taco but he thinks it is really special and so proud of himself........cause he's not really eating a salad!.......same thing.......sigh.
I brown my burger and add lots of chili powder and salt and cumin. When browned I add a can of drained kidney beans.........put a lid on and just let sit til ready. I make a basic salad in a nice wooden salad bowl.........chopped lettuce, red onion, grape tomatoes cut in half, some whole black olives and grated jack cheese. When ready I crush purchased tortilla chips. So, in my bowl I put the salad, the cheese and dump the hamburger and beans and crushed chips on top. Mix it up well and instead of salsa I like an Italian type salad dressing.......just the right tang. Now, I keep all of these things separate because Bob doesn't do the salad thing..........he warms some tortillas for a bit on top of the hamburger bean mixture.........then he fills the tortilla with the burger mix, cheese and salad on top........then a little salsa. Basically its just a taco but he thinks it is really special and so proud of himself........cause he's not really eating a salad!.......same thing.......sigh.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
OKLAHOMA HOT! AND COLESLAW
I don't know how many of you watch the weather channel but if you do..........you will see Oklahoma dead center of the hottest weather in the US..........and it is now going on 2 weeks! It looks like no change in the near future!! Right now our temp reads 111 degrees and it is 3:45. I just keep watering my flowers and garden and most of it is holding up well. The strawberries took a dump........maybe they'll come out of it. Really unbelievable!! I used to think CABO was hot....................sigh.
So I'll be into light food and salads.........just no appetite, except of course for ice cream! LOL
Everyone has a coleslaw recipe..........I really don't like a mayonnaisey coleslaw!! I just make it up every time........here is what I did today........grated some green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and sliced little green onions. The dressing was......some cider vinegar, a little sugar, salt, pepper, a dash of creole seasonings and a small amount of mayo..........whisk tog and pour over.........this is my favorite but like I said.......its different every time. Hope you are all staying cool!
So I'll be into light food and salads.........just no appetite, except of course for ice cream! LOL
Everyone has a coleslaw recipe..........I really don't like a mayonnaisey coleslaw!! I just make it up every time........here is what I did today........grated some green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and sliced little green onions. The dressing was......some cider vinegar, a little sugar, salt, pepper, a dash of creole seasonings and a small amount of mayo..........whisk tog and pour over.........this is my favorite but like I said.......its different every time. Hope you are all staying cool!
Friday, July 8, 2011
THE SCALES AND SHRIMP SCAMPI
So, I got on the scales this morning only to find out that the ice cream kick..........has taken its toll. NO more ice cream for awhile! Fresh fruit is so fresh and good right now........but I am so weak.........I always want sugar and cream or ice cream with it!! Sigh. Today we had sweet n'sour pork with fried rice. Since I have already given you that recipe.........I am going with another shrimp recipe..........Shrimp Scampi...........I guess I am now on a shrimp kick! LOL
Start by boiling up your spaghetti..(I use angle hair).....drain (save a little of the pasta water) and just set aside until you need it. Now put a couple Tblsp butter in a skillet.....a splash of olive oil to keep the butter from burning....bring to med/high...then add your peeled and deveined shrimp............don't touch them.......they are going to loose some liquid.......but you want them to lightly brown on the one side.......then turn. Now when browned lightly on both sides........doesn't take long.......remove to a bowl and set aside. Now, throw in a little more butter.......add lots of chopped garlic......watch it.......it will burn quick..........then some chopped green pepper, now add about 1/4 cup of white wine and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Cook this down a bit and add your pasta and shrimp........throw anotherTblsp of butter on top........add some of the pasta water if you are loosing your liquid and some sliced grape tomatoes, a small handful of capers and stir..........the flavors are wonderful........you want to keep some of the liquid to serve with ............sprinkle with Parmesan and I like to shave some shavings from the fresh Parmesan to go on top............Another quick, light, summer dish........one of my favorites.
Start by boiling up your spaghetti..(I use angle hair).....drain (save a little of the pasta water) and just set aside until you need it. Now put a couple Tblsp butter in a skillet.....a splash of olive oil to keep the butter from burning....bring to med/high...then add your peeled and deveined shrimp............don't touch them.......they are going to loose some liquid.......but you want them to lightly brown on the one side.......then turn. Now when browned lightly on both sides........doesn't take long.......remove to a bowl and set aside. Now, throw in a little more butter.......add lots of chopped garlic......watch it.......it will burn quick..........then some chopped green pepper, now add about 1/4 cup of white wine and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Cook this down a bit and add your pasta and shrimp........throw anotherTblsp of butter on top........add some of the pasta water if you are loosing your liquid and some sliced grape tomatoes, a small handful of capers and stir..........the flavors are wonderful........you want to keep some of the liquid to serve with ............sprinkle with Parmesan and I like to shave some shavings from the fresh Parmesan to go on top............Another quick, light, summer dish........one of my favorites.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
NEW GLASSES AND SHRIMP ALFREDO
We drove back to Muskogee and finally got the new glasses. All the way home he kept saying how clear things were. The poor man had no idea how blind he was! He is thrilled to be able to read the words on our tv.........we have a small house and a 46" tv.............but he has not been able to read anything on it! Its a Whole New World..............
Still so hot out.........112 degrees! No one feels like cooking........so wanting to fix fast things that don't require much preparation but taste good. Today it is shrimp alfredo. For those of you that don't make your alfredo from scratch.......we'll run through it. So much fun to add whatever you have on hand. Today it is vegys and shrimp. Two skillets and boiler for the pasta........Boil up your pasta........usually linguini but anything will work, drain and set aside. In one skillet put about 1 cup cream maybe a bit more........then dump into it a good handful of Parmesan cheese. Whisk this up and simmer til well blended. In the other skillet.......melt some butter and saute some vegys. Green peppers, little onion, maybe some grape tomatoes, a little garlic, even capers would be good..........then in same skillet in butter lightly brown your shrimp........then dump it all tog. You can do so many things with this.........I just hope you are not using bottle alfredo sauce............no comparison!!
Still so hot out.........112 degrees! No one feels like cooking........so wanting to fix fast things that don't require much preparation but taste good. Today it is shrimp alfredo. For those of you that don't make your alfredo from scratch.......we'll run through it. So much fun to add whatever you have on hand. Today it is vegys and shrimp. Two skillets and boiler for the pasta........Boil up your pasta........usually linguini but anything will work, drain and set aside. In one skillet put about 1 cup cream maybe a bit more........then dump into it a good handful of Parmesan cheese. Whisk this up and simmer til well blended. In the other skillet.......melt some butter and saute some vegys. Green peppers, little onion, maybe some grape tomatoes, a little garlic, even capers would be good..........then in same skillet in butter lightly brown your shrimp........then dump it all tog. You can do so many things with this.........I just hope you are not using bottle alfredo sauce............no comparison!!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
NEW GLASSES FOR BOB!
Okay........its late.......I am hot and I am tired. What an ordeal. Bob is 71 and has never worn glasses. In fact until the last 6 months........his eyesight has been really good. So, this started last week when we made the appointment with the eye dr. He just couldn't understand why he just couldn't go to the eye mart place and just pick out glasses til one worked!! So, after lots of conversation he finally realized he needs a prescription. Step one. OOOOOOOH, then we have to pick out the frames. He now decides that since the deal is 2 glasses for 89.00.......that he will get one set for reading and one set for driving and watching tv. Of course the little "helper bee person" talked him out of that! After about 3 hrs of exam and picking out frames, we are told they are way behind due to the holiday and we will have to come back in the morning to get the finished product. Oh, well. At least I know they are ordered and he will wear them. maybe.
So, needless to say.........this does happen now and again........no cooking today. I sent him to the restaurant down the road for burgers.....They were great!
So, needless to say.........this does happen now and again........no cooking today. I sent him to the restaurant down the road for burgers.....They were great!
Monday, July 4, 2011
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY! MEXICAN CHICKEN
Happy Fourth to Everyone! Here in Eufaula we had our fireworks and celebrating last night. The fireworks were fantastic. Willie and the boys were here playing til early morning Sat. night. Now, I do have an "in" for full passes to all of Willies concerts but this tells you how old I am.........he didn't go on stage til midnight........and I just couldn't bring myself to do it. I've seen him in person several times.........and even hugged his neck once in Cabo San Lucas.......just before his body guard through me out!! THAT was quite a memory, huh, Rebecca? LOL
I do want to recognize the reason we celebrate the fourth........remember our soldiers and give them a shout out when you see them. So proud of Ryan Groteweil.........serving in Afghanistan!
Remember always........the freedoms our country was founded on.
Okay, so many, many chicken recipes out there.......and believe me........I have tried most of them. I pick out a few favorites and tuck them away in my overflowing recipe box. Here is one.
I make this with 2 chicken breasts........skin on.......but thats up to you......Smooth them both all over with olive oil....then rub a good dry rub all over. (garlic salt, chili powder, cumin, lots of pepper, and more salt) Brown in a skillet and then cover your pan and put in the oven at 350 for about 30 min......juice will come out......remove cover and leave in til juice is almost gone. Return pan to burner and brown again on both sides and remove to plates.
In the same pan........saute some chopped up onion, and garlic.......remember to watch your garlic......add about 3/4 cup chicken stock and stir in 1/2 cup chopped pablano or some other green chili and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. Then stir in 2or3 Tblsp of chiplote sauce. (from a can of chipoltes) Bring to a light boil and stir in 3/4 cup cream. Cook down, stirring, til thickened. Serve over the chicken. This is a keeper!
I do want to recognize the reason we celebrate the fourth........remember our soldiers and give them a shout out when you see them. So proud of Ryan Groteweil.........serving in Afghanistan!
Remember always........the freedoms our country was founded on.
Okay, so many, many chicken recipes out there.......and believe me........I have tried most of them. I pick out a few favorites and tuck them away in my overflowing recipe box. Here is one.
I make this with 2 chicken breasts........skin on.......but thats up to you......Smooth them both all over with olive oil....then rub a good dry rub all over. (garlic salt, chili powder, cumin, lots of pepper, and more salt) Brown in a skillet and then cover your pan and put in the oven at 350 for about 30 min......juice will come out......remove cover and leave in til juice is almost gone. Return pan to burner and brown again on both sides and remove to plates.
In the same pan........saute some chopped up onion, and garlic.......remember to watch your garlic......add about 3/4 cup chicken stock and stir in 1/2 cup chopped pablano or some other green chili and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. Then stir in 2or3 Tblsp of chiplote sauce. (from a can of chipoltes) Bring to a light boil and stir in 3/4 cup cream. Cook down, stirring, til thickened. Serve over the chicken. This is a keeper!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
112 DEGREES OUTSIDE AND PEACH ICE CREAM!
Yes, on our thermometer in the front yard it reads 112! Back yard is only 104.........but here is the best part!!!!!!!!! Our electricity has been going on and off for about 3 hours! So......we had to shut off the air, tv and computer........it was unbearable and of course I was cussing everyone that even remotely had anything to do with the Electric Co...........finally seems to be back on track. Needless to say........we snacked all day. And still eating ice cream!!
THis is my Mothers Peach Ice Cream recipe..........the ONLY peach ice cream recipe in the world.............unbelievable. So.......easy........2 cups cream, 2 cups mashed fresh peaches, a shot of lemon juice and 1 to 1 1/2 cups sugar (depending on sweetness of peaches. Mix it all up and into your ice cream maker...... You can also make the most wonderful raspberry the same way............You will never eat better ice cream.........ever! I have got to move on to some other kind of food.............sigh.
THis is my Mothers Peach Ice Cream recipe..........the ONLY peach ice cream recipe in the world.............unbelievable. So.......easy........2 cups cream, 2 cups mashed fresh peaches, a shot of lemon juice and 1 to 1 1/2 cups sugar (depending on sweetness of peaches. Mix it all up and into your ice cream maker...... You can also make the most wonderful raspberry the same way............You will never eat better ice cream.........ever! I have got to move on to some other kind of food.............sigh.
Friday, July 1, 2011
I'M HUNG UP ON ICE CREAM!
I learned something about living in the United States today............don't ever go to the grocery store on a 4th of July weekend! I made the mistake and couldn't even move.........people lined up 10 deep! AND everyone had carts piled to the top. Finally got out of there........in such a hurry forgot half of what I went for! Homemade pizza today.........I have already given you the recipe........and believe me........if you haven't tried that pizza dough recipe yet.....you just have to...............I pat myself on the back every time I make it. (Can't pat too hard.......back still not perfect)
So decided that my hot fudge sauce was such a big hit and many of you tried it and liked it.........I'll give you my Carmel Sauce recipe. This works the same way.........warm it a bit and when you put in on the ice cream.......tends to get little hard pieces..........so good.
In a pan put 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup cream, 1/4 cup Karo syrup and 1 Tblsp butter. Bring to a boil.........stirring........til comes to a boil........turn heat to low and let boil for one minute. Remove from heat and let cool a bit before you use..........keeps in frig for a long time. Not in MY frig........I can just eat it by the spoons full!
So decided that my hot fudge sauce was such a big hit and many of you tried it and liked it.........I'll give you my Carmel Sauce recipe. This works the same way.........warm it a bit and when you put in on the ice cream.......tends to get little hard pieces..........so good.
In a pan put 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup cream, 1/4 cup Karo syrup and 1 Tblsp butter. Bring to a boil.........stirring........til comes to a boil........turn heat to low and let boil for one minute. Remove from heat and let cool a bit before you use..........keeps in frig for a long time. Not in MY frig........I can just eat it by the spoons full!
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