We stayed up late-- baking and making cocktails-- then baked more, drank more-- But it's the night/morning before Christmas Eve. It was time with Sis, just what we needed-- !-- like old times.Pour in 1/4 cup simple syrup-- in each glass of two.Stir in freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice, enough to suit individual taste. … [Read more...]
Chicken and Rice Soup with Sandwiches
This is my husband's maternal grandparents' soup that they used to cook together, what he was raised on, this good wholesome and nourishing soup fit for a cold day or just for a cold. From the time we got together, he cooked this for me, knew it by heart. We would visit his grandparents, and his grandfather would be cooking this on the stove, well into his 80s. … [Read more...]
Spinach-Cheese Swirls
Spinach-Cheese Swirls ~~ adapted from Pepperidge Farm ~Heat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Thaw 1/2 of a 17.3-oz package Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry Sheets; 1 sheet needed. Thaw and drain well, 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach. Lightly grease 2 baking sheets, or use cooking spray or line with parchment paper.Stir 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water together.Stir 1/2 … [Read more...]
Light of the World
Male Bonding Beer-Brined Chicken
I'm impressed with this chicken recipe. The flavors of all the spices-- in the brine, in the rub, are splendid; and cooked just right, it's outstanding. No doubt, I'll be making this again.Male Bonding Beer-Brined Chicken ~~ adapted from Patio Daddy-O ~For the brine, with a peeler, chop into small pieces strips of lemon zest to equal 1 tablespoon.In a large bowl, … [Read more...]
Ham and Cheese Slab Pies
Ham and Cheese Slab Pies ~~ adapted from Better Homes and Gardens ~Preheat oven temp to 400. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Stir together in a small bowl 6 ounces softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons honey mustard. (I used mascarpone instead of cream cheese.)On a lightly floured surface, roll sheets of 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed, 15x12-inch … [Read more...]
Loud and Clear
Puffed Oven Pancake with Brown-Sugar Banana Sauce
Puffed Oven Pancake with Brown-Sugar Banana Sauce ~~ adapted from Better Homes and Gardens ~Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.Whisk to beat 4 large eggs. Whisk in 2/3 cup of flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 2/3 cup milk. Beat with whisk until batter is smooth.Melt in a 12-inch skillet (or baking dish) in the oven 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. As soon as … [Read more...]
Countdown to Christmas
LET’S MAKE A CAKE – Chocolate and Vanilla Red Velvet
Let's make a mess, get it everywhere, cover the kitchen in ganache. Let's get into a chocolate fight.Chocolate and Vanilla Red Velvet Cake ~~ adapted from Better Homes and Gardens ~Stir together 3 cups flour, 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder,and 3/4 teaspoon salt.Beat 3/4 cups unsalted (at room temperature) butter.Gradually add 2 1/4 cups sugar. Beat on … [Read more...]