the grandkids wanted seconds and grandpa

 

Chicken Fritters: Delicious and Easy to Make

You may serve these chicken fritters as an appetizer or as a main meal since they are tasty and simple to prepare. You may dip them into your preferred sauce since they are loaded with taste and texture, and they are great for doing so.

Ingredients:

• 25 ounces of leftover shredded chicken or canned chicken that has been drained
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 medium-sized egg
• 1/3 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Oil (olive or vegetable), for frying (enough to coat the bottom of the skillet)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, Dijon mustard, egg, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the Fritters: Shape the chicken mixture into small patties.
3. Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat.
4. Fry the Fritters: Cook the fritters in the hot oil for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fritters with your preferred dipping sauce.

Cream Puffs

 

Cream Puffs: A Heavenly Delight

Introduction

Cream puffs are a classic French dessert that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. With their light, airy choux pastry shells and luscious, creamy fillings, these delightful treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply craving something sweet, cream puffs are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple recipe to create these elegant and delicious pastries.

Ingredients

To prepare these delectable cream puffs, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Choux Pastry:

• 1 cup of water
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

For the Cream Filling:

• 2 cups of heavy cream
• 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For Dusting:

• Powdered sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Choux Pastry:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.

Shape and Bake the Pastry:

1. Using a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, pipe small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
3. Turn off the oven and let the puffs cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent them from collapsing.

Prepare the Cream Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.

Fill the Cream Puffs:

1. Once the pastry shells are completely cool, cut them in half horizontally.
2. Pipe the whipped cream into the bottom halves of the shells, then replace the tops.

Dust and Serve:

1. Dust the filled cream puffs with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors for the cream filling, such as adding cocoa powder for chocolate cream or a few drops of almond extract for an almond-flavored filling.
• Chocolate Topping: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the filled cream puffs for an extra decadent touch.
• Storage: Store any leftover cream puffs in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within a day or two.

Conclusion

Cream puffs are a delightful and elegant dessert that never fails to impress. With their light and airy choux pastry and rich, creamy filling, they are the perfect treat for any special occasion. This simple recipe ensures that you can recreate this classic dessert at home with ease. So go ahead, indulge in the heavenly delight of homemade cream puffs!

Keywords

• Cream puffs
• Choux pastry
• French dessert
• Whipped cream filling
• Elegant pastries
• Homemade cream puffs
• Classic dessert recipe
• Light and airy pastries

The Art of Braised Short Ribs

 

The Art of Braised Short Ribs: A Culinary Masterpiece

Introduction

Braised short ribs are a culinary delight that embodies the essence of slow-cooked comfort food. These tender, flavorful cuts of beef are simmered in a rich, savory sauce until they are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for guests or simply indulging in a hearty meal, braised short ribs are sure to impress. In this article, we will explore a unique and detailed recipe for braised short ribs, complete with tips and techniques to achieve the perfect dish.

Ingredients

For the Braised Short Ribs:

• 4-5 pounds of beef short ribs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup red wine
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 bay leaves

For the Accompaniments:

• Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
• Cooked pasta or mashed potatoes, for serving

Instructions

Preparing the Short Ribs:

1. Season the Ribs: Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Brown the Ribs: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the short ribs in batches, searing them on all sides until they are deeply browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor. Once browned, remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside.

Building the Flavor Base:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and beginning to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor and create a deeper color.

Deglazing and Braising:

1. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for 3-5 minutes until it has reduced by half.
2. Add Broth and Tomatoes: Return the browned short ribs to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, ensuring the ribs are mostly submerged in the liquid.
3. Herb Bouquet: Tie the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves together with kitchen twine to create a bouquet garni. Add it to the pot for added flavor.

Slow Cooking:

1. Simmer: Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Braise the short ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is incredibly tender and falls off the bone.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Once done, remove the pot from the oven. Carefully remove the short ribs and strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids. Return the sauce to the pot and let it simmer on the stovetop until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serving:

1. Plate and Garnish: Serve the braised short ribs over a bed of cooked pasta or creamy mashed potatoes. Ladle the rich sauce over the ribs and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Conclusion

Braised short ribs are a testament to the beauty of slow-cooked meals. This dish, with its deep, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, is perfect for any occasion. By following this detailed recipe, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Enjoy the art of braising and savor every delicious bite of these exquisite short ribs.

Loaded Baked potato soup

 

Potato Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, diced
• Water (enough to cover top of potatoes)
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cups milk
• 3 chicken bouillon cubes
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (more to garnish)

Preparation

1. In a 4-quart saucepan on medium-high heat, add potatoes and cover with water (about 3-4 cups) and allow them to fully cook.
2. Add milk, chicken bouillon cubes, onions, parsley, garlic, basil, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and 1 piece of bacon. Mix well.
3. Quickly add flour, mixing until no lumps appear and the mixture thickens.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and allow to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add shredded cheese and mix until melted. Dice remaining bacon for garnish.
6. Ladle soup into serving bowls and garnish the tops with extra cheese.
7. Enjoy!

Delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole

 

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well for convenience)
• 1 can (19 ounces) enchilada sauce (red or green, based on preference)
• 12 corn tortillas, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 3 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving (optional):

• Sour cream
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Diced avocado
• Sliced jalapeños
• Lime wedges

How To Make Delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce, diced green chiles, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Layer the Casserole:
   • First Layer: Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of cut tortillas over the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
   • Second Layer: Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Top with half of the black beans, corn, and diced onion. Sprinkle a third of the cheese over the top.
   • Third Layer: Add another layer of cut tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture, black beans, corn, and onion. Sprinkle another third of the cheese over the top.
   • Fourth Layer: Finish with a final layer of cut tortillas. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all the tortillas are covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce.
4. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges on the side.

Spaghetti meat sauce recipe

 

Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a classic Italian-American dish that’s both hearty and comforting.

It typically features a rich, tomato-based sauce simmered with ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of seasonings. This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti but can also complement other pasta shapes.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground chuck
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans tomato sauce
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 large onion or 2 medium onions, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons minced parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In an extra large heated skillet, add olive oil. Add diced onions and green peppers, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until browned.
3. Add ground chuck and cook until browned. Drain the grease from the meat.
4. Stir in all the seasonings and spices to mix evenly through the browned ground chuck.
5. Add crushed and diced tomatoes, and stir to combine.
6. Add tomato sauce and stir. Turn the heat to low and let simmer for 1 hour.
7. Meanwhile, boil spaghetti pasta in a large pot of water for about 7 to 8 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the water to prevent the pasta from sticking.
8. Drain the water, add the sauce to the spaghetti, and serve.

Variations:

• Meat: Use ground beef, pork, turkey, or a mix. For a richer flavor, try Italian sausage.
• Add-ins: Include vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Add red wine for depth.
• Herbs: Experiment with fresh basil, oregano, or thyme.

Tips:

• Sauté vegetables before adding meat for extra flavor.
• Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes to develop depth of flavor.
• Season gradually, tasting as you go, to balance flavors.

Cherry Bars

 

These Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, offering all the flavors you love in an easy-to-make bar form.

With a buttery cookie-like crust, sweet cherry pie filling, and a golden topping, this dessert is perfect for sharing at gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying as a sweet treat.

The combination of rich dough and tangy cherries creates a satisfying dessert that’s sure to please everyone!

Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 1 1/2 cups butter, softened
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 5 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
• 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cans (21 oz.) cherry pie filling

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan (12x17) with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick spray. Set aside.
2. In the bowl of your stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add salt, eggs, and vanilla and almond extracts. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Add flour and baking powder, and mix until just combined. Reserve 1 3/4 cups of dough.
5. Spread or press the remaining dough into the prepared baking pan.
6. Top with cherry pie filling. Drop the reserved dough in small pieces over the cherry filling.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, prepare the glaze. Whisk together confectioners' sugar and milk until smooth and drizzle over the bars.
10. Cut into 35 squares and serve.

Variations:

You can easily swap the cherry pie filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or raspberry to create different flavors. Add a streusel topping for extra texture or drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the baked bars for added sweetness.

For a citrus twist, incorporate a bit of lemon or orange zest into the dough.

Tips:

• Press the dough evenly into the pan to ensure consistent baking.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to get clean, neat squares.
• Use quality cherry pie filling for the best flavor.
• Drizzle the bars with powdered sugar glaze or serve with whipped cream for extra flavor.

Nutrition:

A typical serving of these cherry pie bars contains approximately 250-300 calories, with about 12-15g of fat, 30-35g of carbohydrates, and 2-4g of protein.

Storage:

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Freezing Instructions:

Yes, you can freeze Cherry Pie Bars to enjoy later. Once cooled completely, cut them into individual bars and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour.

After they’re frozen, transfer the bars to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To enjoy, simply thaw the bars at room temperature for a few hours or in the refrigerator overnight.

Taco Cupcakes

 

Taco cupcakes are a fun and inventive twist on traditional tacos, reimagined as mini portions baked in a cupcake pan.

This dish combines the classic flavors of tacos with a convenient, bite-sized presentation, making it perfect for parties, gatherings, or casual meals.

Each “cupcake” is filled with seasoned meat, cheese, fresh vegetables, and sauces, creating a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.

The recipe offers plenty of flexibility, allowing guests to customize their taco cupcakes with their favorite toppings.

Taco Cupcakes

Experience the delightful combination of Mexican flavors in a fun, bite-sized form with our Taco Cupcakes! These savory treats are perfect for parties, game days, or a unique twist on taco night, featuring layers of seasoned meat, cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings, all nestled in a crispy wonton wrapper.

Ingredients:

For the Taco Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water

For the Cupcakes:

• 24 wonton wrappers
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Sour cream and salsa for topping

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
3. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the taco seasoning and water, and simmer until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
5. Place a wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
6. Add a tablespoon of the seasoned ground beef into each cup, then sprinkle with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
7. Add another wonton wrapper on top of each cup, pressing down gently.
8. Repeat the layering process with the remaining beef and cheese.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the taco cupcakes from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a serving platter.
11. Top each taco cupcake with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, black olives, and green onions.
12. Add a dollop of sour cream and a spoonful of salsa on top of each for the perfect finishing touch.

Variations:

Classic Taco Cupcakes:

• Ingredients: Ground beef or turkey, taco seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream.
• Toppings: Salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro.

Chicken Taco Cupcakes:

• Ingredients: Shredded chicken, taco seasoning, Monterey Jack cheese, corn, black beans.
• Toppings: Sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, lime crema.

Vegetarian Taco Cupcakes:

• Ingredients: Black beans, corn, bell peppers, onions, shredded cheese.
• Toppings: Sliced radishes, chopped cilantro, a drizzle of vegan sour cream.

Spicy Taco Cupcakes:

• Ingredients: Spicy chorizo or hot sausage, pepper jack cheese, diced green chilies.
• Toppings: Sriracha or hot sauce, pickled red onions.

Tips:

• Pre-cook Ingredients: Ensure that any meats or vegetables are cooked and seasoned before adding them to the cupcake pan to avoid excess moisture.
• Use a Cupcake Pan: Use a standard or mini cupcake pan to shape and bake the taco mixture into individual servings. Lining the pan with paper liners can help with easy removal.
• Layering: Start with a layer of cheese at the bottom to create a gooey base, then add the seasoned meat and top with more cheese before baking.
• Garnishing: Add fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sauces after baking to maintain their crispness and flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the taco filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the cupcakes.
• Serving: Serve with a variety of condiments and garnishes on the side, so guests can customize their taco cupcakes to their taste.

These variations and tips will help you create delicious and visually appealing taco cupcakes for any occasion.

Serve these Taco Cupcakes warm, and enjoy the playful yet delicious take on traditional tacos!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 12 cupcakes