Cookin' with Super Pickle

Taco Lasagna

2013-05-20T18:43:00.002-07:00

I was going to make Enchilasagna tonight, but never got around to making the Enchilada Sauce. I decided to do some googling and came across some yummy seed ideas that grew into Taco Lasagna! This would also be good with shredded chicken breast, ground turkey or even double the beans and add some shredded veggies and make it a vegetarian dish!

12 corn tortillas, quartered
1 lb ground beef
1 recipe taco seasoning (1 commercial packet it fine)
1/3 cup water
2 cups prepared black beans(approx 1 can drained and rinsed)
1 cup sour cream

24 oz chunky salsa
8 oz shredded cheese(Cheddar, Mexican style, Pepper Jack, Monterrey Jack or any combo!)

5 green onions, sliced

*if you want to do vegetarian, heat the beans with some shredded veggies(carrots, zucchini and sweet pepper would be good) and then add the taco seasoning/water

Cook ground beef until all the pink is gone(drain if necessary) Add seasoning and water, stir well and simmer a few minutes more. Set aside

Preheat oven to 350º

Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish, arrange 4 tortillas over the bottom.
Spread over 1/2 the meat ,1/2 the beans, 1/2 the sour cream, 1/3 the salsa, 1/3 the cheese, 1/3 the onions.

Spread evenly, then top with another layer of tortillas. Repeat layer again.

Add the remaining tortillas, then top with remaining salsa, cheese and green onions.

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, uncover and bake 15 minutes more.

Allow to set for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Top with fresh shredded greens, diced tomatoes, fresh Jalapeños , more sour cream and salsa.......endless possibilities!!!

Trail Mix Cereal Bars

2013-05-15T12:34:00.002-07:00

I needed a good bar to take on a road trip and this is what I came up with!

5 cups toasted oat cereal
(Nature's Path makes a good Gluten Free Whole O's cereal if you like!)
3 cups basic trail mix
(I used Kirkland Brand, Peanuts, Almonds, Cashews, Raisins and M and M's)

1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup corn syrup* (you can omit this and use 1 cup honey, I was running short on it though!)
1/2 cup lightly packed brown sugar
1 1/2 cups natural peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla

Mix cereal and trail mix together

In a saucepan heat honey, corn syrup and brown sugar over medium heat. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3 minutes.

Add peanut butter, mix well and heat through

Pour PB mixture over the cereal mix and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Line a 9 x 13 baking dish with parchment paper.

Pour mixture into the dish and press in evenly.

Allow to cool completely

Remove from pan and slice into bars!

Thai Chicken Quesadilla

2013-05-14T17:46:00.004-07:00

I just took my copy of Papa Murphy's Thai Chicken Pizza and made it into a Quesadilla!

Amounts to taste, dont overload though!

Tortillas (Flour or Corn, up to you)

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
Shredded Chicken Breast, I season it with oriental seasonings and grill it, then shred it.
Zucchini, sliced thin
Green Onions, sliced
White Onion, sliced thin
Purple Onion, sliced thin
Shredded Mozzarella
Shredded Cheddar
Red Pepper Flakes to taste
and a drizzle more of sweet chili sauce on the top

Spread some sweet chili sauce on a tortilla,

top with chicken, green, white and purple onion and zucchini.

Sprinkle on mozzarella and cheddar then top with red pepper flakes and more sweet chili sauce as desired.

I bake mine in a 375º oven until melted, then top with a second tortilla and broil on low until crisp......you can cook yours however your quesadilla cooking style desires!

Cool a few minutes then Slice and Enjoy!

Whiskey Maple Bacon Ice Cream Cake

2013-05-10T19:51:00.001-07:00

This is for my husband for his birthday!!! Because everything is better with Bacon and Whiskey...

Whiskey is debatable on the Gluten Free issue so feel free to sub dark Rum if you want a GF cake.

By the way, any leftover candied bacon is FANTASTIC in an omelette!

1 recipe Whiskey Maple Bacon Ice Cream
When making the ice cream, double the candied bacon, you will use the other half of it in this recipe.

Cake: I found this recipe and adjusted it slightly

I made mine gluten free, you can make it with all purpose white flour or GF mix of your choice. (added 1 tsp xanthan gum to my GF mix)

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 1/2 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
2 eggs(I actually used the 4 egg whites leftover from the ice cream)
1 cup 100% maple syrup
2 tsp vanilla
5 TB water*
3 TB whiskey*

*You can adjust this ratio as you see fit per your whiskey flavor likes! Or use all water if you want it alcohol free. Total of 1/2 cup liquid.

Grease and flour your 9 inch round baking pans. Set aside. Preheat oven to 350ºF.

Beat sugar and butter until smooth.

In another bowl sift together flour, powder, soda and salt.

Sorry, got busy and forgot to take a few pictures...
Add eggs 1 at a time, beating very well between additions.

Add in maple syrup and vanilla.

Reduce speed to low and stir in flour alternately with water. Beat well. Gently stir in remaining candied bacon reserving some for decorating the top of the cake(1/3 cup or so is more than sufficient).

Divide equally among prepared pans and bake for 20-30 minutes until a tooth pick comes out clean.

Cool in pans for 10 minutes then gently remove to a wire rack to cool completely....Chill well. (cakes will be thin, the original recipe calls for 8 inch pans, I did 9 inch pans to make thinner layers)

Prep--

I did this one slightly different than I normally do...

Return one chilled cake to the pan...pour softened ice cream over the top....you may not need the entire recipe!

Place pan in the freezer and freeze until solid.

Remove from pan, place cake side down on a platter and top with remaining cake. Return to freezer.

Decorative Topping idea! I did not do this but it would be great!
Heat 1/2 cup 100% maple syrup over medium high heat until the hard crack stage is reached. (300º F)
Pour gently in streams or designs over a piece of parchment paper. Allow to cool. You can then gently peel them off.

Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 tub Tru-Whip or Cool Whip
4 oz cream cheese, room temperature(must be VERY soft!!)
1 TB whiskey(optional of course)
1/4 to 1/2 cup powdered sugar( to taste some find the whipped topping sweet enough, others might like it sweeter)

Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar and whiskey together.
GENTLY fold the cream cheese mixture into the whipped topping adding powdered sugar as needed.....do not over stir, it will lose its fluffiness

Immediately frost cake.

Top with the Maple designs you made or a drizzle of maple syrup and the remaining bacon.
Return to freezer until ready to serve

Allow to thaw a minute or two before slicing.

Spicy Hawaiian Roast Beef Sandwiches

2013-05-10T19:28:00.001-07:00

This was my husbands dinner request for his birthday this year.

Copycat King's Hawaiian Bread made them into hamburger bun shapes.
Of course you can use store bought ones if you like!

Amounts to taste

Quality Roast Beef
Roasted Pineapple Habanero Sauce(Homemade or at Costco by Rothschild Farms)
Mayo
Roasted Pineapple Slices(Fresh)*
Roasted Red Pepper Slices
Jalapeño Slices
Swiss Cheese

I use about a 2: 1 ratio mix with the Mayo and Pineapple Habanero sauce depending on how many you are serving...for example mix 1/4 cup mayo with 2 TB PH sauce.

Slice your rolls, spread with mayo.

Pile with roast beef, pineapple, red peppers and jalapeno. Bake in a preheated 350 oven until heated through, add cheese and continue to heat until the cheese is melted. Top with the other bun, slice and serve

*Roasted Pineapple

1 fresh pineapple, sliced, skin removed....and I used a 1 inch biscuit cutter to remove the cores and make pretty rings.
2 TB of brown sugar
juice of 1 lime

Preheat oven to 450
Line a baking sheet(or 2) with parchment paper
Place rings or slices on the paper

Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar. Drizzle lime juice over the top

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until nicely browned.

Whiskey Maple Bacon Ice Cream

2013-05-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Yum...Yum....YUM!!! Omit the Whiskey for a still very delicious Maple Bacon Ice Cream

A few notes:
Whiskey is debatable on the gluten free issue, so feel free to sub dark Rum if you like!
Brown sugar can be substituted for the maple sugar, you may want to add in a small amount of maple extract if you do though

6 thick slices bacon
1/4 cup maple sugar

2 TB butter
3/4 cup maple sugar
2 cups half and half
1 cup heavy cream
4 egg yolks
1 TB 100% maple syrup
1-2 TB whiskey(per your whiskey flavor needs)
pinch of salt
pinch of cinnamon

Preheat oven to 400
On a foil lined baking sheet arrange the bacon in a single layer. Evenly sprinkle the sugar over the bacon. Spread gently.

Place in hot oven and bake 10 minutes, gently flip bacon and swirl it around in the syrup. Continue baking until the syrup is a dark reddish brown. Remove from the oven and cool on wire racks.

Once cool chop into little pieces.

Custard:

Melt Butter over medium heat, add sugar and half and half stir until the sugar is melted.

Beat the egg yolks in a bowl. SLOWLY add about 1/2 cup of the hot sugar mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.

Pour the egg mixture into the remaining sugar mixture.

Cook over low heat stirring constantly until it thickens
If you are uncomfortable having any un cooked alcohol, add it in with the egg mixture to burn off some of it, (Although cooking does not entirely burn it off, it will reduce the content.) If its not an issue you can add it in in the next step.

Strain through a mesh basket into a bowl.

Add the chilled heavy cream and remaining ingredients.
Mix well and chill completely

Add the bacon pieces and proceed with your ice cream makers instructions

Prosciutto Stuffed Polenta

2013-05-06T18:28:00.004-07:00

I made a similar dish for a Teacher Appreciation Luncheon. It was a HUGE hit! I changed it up just a bit for our preferences.

6 cups chicken stock
6 cups water
3 cups dry polenta*
salt as desired
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese(fresh grated is best!)
1/2 cup Romano Cheese( " " )
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 TB chopped fresh oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
3 oz sliced prosciutto (or salami is good too, even pepperoni would work!)
1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (oil packed with herbs are the best IMO)
1 loosely packed cup baby spinach leaves, torn
3/4 cup chopped black olives, divided
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
3/4 cup shredded smoked provolone
1/2 cup Parmesan(fresh grated)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
fresh grated pepper

You can use cornmeal in place of polenta, there is a difference in texture but overall the dish is un-affected
Polenta:
Cornmeal:

In a large pot bring chicken stock to a boil, slowly add polenta, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer(still stirring) and cook 7-10 minutes until VERY thick.

Remove from heat and stir in first Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, butter , parsley, oregano and garlic powder.

In a large(13x9 works) well greased pan pour 1/2 the polenta and smooth gently. Cover the other half and keep over low heat.

Evenly layer the prosciutto(or whatever you are using) over the polenta(overlap of the slices is fine), then evenly distribute the spinach, tomatoes and the 1/2 the olives.

Combine remaining cheeses and chopped basil. (I went to get my basil out and it had gone bad, so this time around I used dried. Fresh is SO much better, but dried works too)

Sprinkle 1/2 this mixture over the spinach, tomatoes and olives.

Gently stir remaining olives into the remaining polenta, then spread it over the top. Sprinkle with the last amount of cheese.

Refrigerate until firm, min of an hour is best, but it can be made well ahead of time if you like.

Preheat oven to 400 and bake 45-60 minutes until heated through and the top is golden brown(you can put it under the broiler for a moment if you like)

Allow to cool for a few minutes then slice and enjoy!

Cajun Fettuccine Alfredo

2013-05-01T18:42:00.004-07:00

My husband wanted Alfredo for dinner, I didnt really want to do a chicken meal, nor did I want meatless. I dug around in my freezer and found andouille sausage so I started thinking.....

8 oz Andouille Sausage
1 recipe Alfredo Sauce(you can use my recipe, another one, or a jar if you like!)
2 tsp Cajun Seasoning(Emeril's is awesome!!)
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 onion, chopped
1 clove garlic , minced
oregano, salt and pepper to taste

Fettuccine Pasta

Cook pasta according to package or recipe directions.

Chop you sausages into small pieces, cook in a skillet over medium high heat, then drain well(you can even rinse if you like)

Return the meat to the pan and add red peppers, onion and garlic. Cook until the veggies are tender.

In a sauce pan heat the Alfredo sauce, then add cooked meat and peppers, mix well and season to taste.

Place pasta on a plate, top with a scoop of sauce. I sprinkled on some red pepper flakes for a kick( you can add them directly to the recipe if you like) and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese...

Thai Peanut Chicken Pie

2013-04-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

We all love Chicken Pot Pie, but I wanted something a little different so I combined a few ideas!

1 lb chicken breast, roasted and shredded(I did mine with garlic powder, oriental seasoning and pepper)
1 medium broccoli crown, chopped small
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

1 TB olive oil
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup green onion, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup peanut sauce(peanut butter is an acceptable sub if you want)
1/4 cup orange juice
1-2 tsp Thai Curry Paste(Green is Spiciest, then Red, Yellow is Milder)

1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Crust:
1 1/4 cup flour(GF alternative if you like, add 1 tsp xanthan gum)plus a bit for rolling
1/4 cup finely ground peanuts or peanut flour
1/2 cup cold butter, cut into chunks
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1/2 tsp salt
6-8 TB ice water

Mix flour and peanuts together, in a food processor or high powered blender (or by hand) place flour mix butter and green onions, pulse until it resembles coarse sand. Add salt and ice water 1 TB at a time until it just holds together(dont go overboard on water!)

Remove and place on a hard surface, smoosh it down with the heels of your hands a few times. Form into a disk, sprinkle with flour and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 1 hour.

Filling:

In a large pan heat oil over medium heat, add onion and garlic and cook 2-3 minutes until tender.

Add green onion, cilantro, chicken broth, peanut sauce, oj and curry paste. Simmer together for 2-3 minutes.

Then add chicken, broccoli and pepper and stir well. Heat through.

Pour mixture into a 9 x 13 baking dish.

Sprinkle with peanuts

Preheat oven to 375

Remove crust dough from fridge, allow to warm for 5-10 minutes.

On a floured surface with a floured rolling pin GENTLY roll to just larger than 13 x 9 rectangle(I actually prefer to roll it on floured wax paper, it makes transfer so much easier!)

Gently place the crust over the top of the pie filling, tucking in the side as needed. Make 3 large slits, and brush with butter or egg wash if you like.

Bake for 35-45 minutes until it is browned and bubbly.

Strawberry Peach Vodka Slush

2013-04-28T09:20:00.001-07:00

A nice refreshing drink for a sunny evening....

Enjoy responsibly ;)

5-6 frozen strawberries
1-2 slices frozen peaches
club soda
ice as needed
Peach flavored Vodka (Cîroc is AWESOME!!)

place strawberries and peaches in a blender, turn it on and slowly add the club soda(and more ice if desired) until a smooth slushy consistency is reached. Add in vodka. Pour in a glass and serve.

Colby Jack Bacon Mac and Peas

2013-04-28T09:10:00.005-07:00

A little twist on plain ol' mac and cheese.

16 oz pasta of your choice( I used homemade gluten free macaroni)

6 slices bacon, chopped into pieces
1/4 cup flour OR 3 TB cornstarch
2 cups milk
8 oz shredded colby jack cheese
1 TB dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas, defrosted
1/2 cup mashed cauliflower

Cook pasta according to package directions(or as needed for fresh)

Place bacon in a deep pan and cook over medium heat until tender crisp

If you are using flour, add it directly to the bacon and stir well until a nice paste forms, if you are using cornstarch whisk it into the cold milk.

Add milk to the pan and cook stirring often until thickened.

Add all but 1/2 cup of the cheese and mustard, stir until the cheese is melted.

Stir in peas.

Drain pasta(rinse if desired)

Mix pasta into cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.

Bake at 350 degrees until hot an bubbly(about 20-30 minutes) sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake just enough to melt it.

Gluten Free No Added Sugar Fruit and Oatmeal Cookies

2013-04-28T09:06:00.001-07:00

I saw a recipe floating around facebook and it sounded good. No added sugar, just the natural sweetness of yummy fruit! I decided to change it up just a little bit though. This made me about 30 good sized cookies. Great for a quick breakfast!

4 cups old fashioned oatmeal(certified GF in necessary)
3 mashed bananas(about 1 cup)
1 cup pureed pumpkin
2/3 cup applesauce(I used a granny smith apple)
1 cup raisins ( or craisins, or a mix of both!)
1/2 cup milk(almond, soy, cows, coconut, whatever you like)
1 egg( a flax egg is a great replacement if you cant have eggs*)
2 tsp vanilla
2 tsp cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
pinch of salt

*flax egg:
Mix 1 TB ground flax with 3 TB water, mix well and allow to sit until gelatinous(5 mins). Use in place of 1 egg.

Preheat oven to 350 and lightly grease cookie sheets.

Mix all your fruits together in a large bowl, add in milk, egg , cinnamon, powder, soda and salt.

Add in the oatmeal and mix very well.

Allow to sit for a few minutes to soften up the oats.

Scoop by heaping spoonfuls onto greased baking sheet, flatten slightly

Bake 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Allow to cool on sheets for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to cool completely.

Root Beer Pulled Pork with Coleslaw and Fried Jalapenos

2013-04-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

We took our son to a local BBQ joint for his birthday and I had the most delicious pulled pork sandwich! I figured it would be easy to make at home. I had an extra bottle of root beer leftover from his party(1 left with 3 kids in the house = CHAOS!) so I decided to use that. Very simple and delicious. You can use a hoagie, a tortilla or I put it over leftover corn bread!! Sorry no process pictures, I really didn't think about it while I was making it!!

2lb pork roast
12 oz bottle QUALITY root beer
1-2 TB Liquid Smoke
Seasoning Salt
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
Pepper

Quality BBQ sauce of your choice, my favorite is this copy of Jack Daniels BBQ

Fried Jalapenos
Fried Pickles
(THIS recipe is my fave for both!)

Coleslaw:
8 oz coleslaw mix(premade or make your own, whatever you like)
1/3 cup mayo
3 TB sugar
1 TB milk
1 TB white vinegar
garlic powder
salt
pepper

Place the roast in a slow cooker, pour over root beer and liquid smoke, season to taste and cook 7-8 hours on low.

Remove the roast, allow to cool until easily handle-able then shred well.

Return to the slow cooker juices, add in BBQ sauce to taste(depends on how sloppy you like it!)

Mix your coleslaw dressing , season to taste, then toss in the coleslaw mix.

Scoop pork over a hoagie, into a tortilla, over cornbread, over mashed or baked potato....whatever you like!!!

Add a few jalapenos and/or pickles and top with coleslaw!

Overnight Maple Bacon and Sausage Waffle Casserole

2013-04-20T08:17:00.005-07:00

My son had a sleepover for his birthday so I wanted to have something to just throw in the oven for breakfast to feed the slew of hungry boys. This worked out very well! I found the original recipe HERE, and changed it a little bit.

12 waffles(I used gluten free Apple Carrot Waffles, you can use your favorite recipe or even frozen waffles if you like, just toast them first)
16 oz link sausage, cooked and sliced
6-8 oz bacon, cooked crisp
12 eggs
2 cups shredded cheddar(more if you like!)
2 cups milk
3/4 cup maple syrup
salt and pepper to taste

Grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish.
Cook your bacon and sausage and slice as desired.

Fit 6 of the waffles into the bottom of the dish(tearing/cutting as needed)

Sprinkle on the sausage and 1 cup of the cheese.

Layer the remaining waffles, crumbled bacon and remaining cup of cheese

Whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup. Season to taste.

Pour over the waffles.

Cover with plastic wrap, then place some kind of weight over the top...like another casserole dish with some cans or a cast iron pan...

Refrigerate overnight.

Allow the casserole to sit at room temp for 30 minutes before cooking!

Preheat oven to 350

Uncover and bake for 60-70 minutes until it is puffed in the middle and golden brown.

Allow to set for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

I had a few slices left so I froze them and wrapped them individually. Remove the plastic wrap in a paper towel and heat in the microwave(check after a minute, then go to 30 second intervals) for a quick breakfast!

Double Fudge Brownie Ice Cream Cake

2013-04-19T19:21:00.001-07:00

This was my son's request for his 11th bday.....chocolate, chocolate and MORE chocolate LOL! Rather a process but WELL worth the effort!!!

Brownies:(for in the ice cream and on top of the cake, I actually made these ahead of time and froze them)

3 oz semi sweet chocolate
1/4 cup butter
2 eggs
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cups sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup flour(Gluten Free mix is good too!, with 1/2 tsp xanthan gum)

Grease the bottom of a 8 x 8 pan and preheat oven to 350
Melt butter and chocolate in a double boiler over medium heat, gently stirring until fully melted and combined.

Beat eggs with sugar, salt and vanilla.

On medium spped, Slowly drizzle in the chocolate mixture.
Gently stir in flour

Pour into the prepared pan and bake 20-25 minutes.

Allow to cool, remove from pan and crumble well.....and try not to eat it all LOL. Set aside.

Ice Cream:

3oz 86% Cocoa Dark Chocolate(I used Ghiradelli Midnight Reverie)
1 cup milk
2 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla
1 pinch salt

Melt chocolate in a double boiler over medium heat.

Slowly add in milk, eggs and sugar. Heat until the sugar is fully dissolve and the temp has reached 160. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Add heavy cream vanilla and salt, mix well and chill, then proceed with according to your ice cream makers instructions. At the end of the cycle add in 1 cup of the brownie crumbles.

Cake:
I used a modification of Hershey's Deep Dark Chocolate Cake
2 cups white sugar
1 3/4 cups flour(excellent with GF flour, add 1 1/2 tsp xanthan gum as well)
1 cup Special Dark Baking Cocoa
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 eggs
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp white vinegar
3/4 cup boiling water

Preheat oven to 350
Grease and flour 2-9 inch round pans
Combine sugar, flour baking cocoa, soda, powder and salt. Mix well.

Add in eggs, oil, milk sour cream and vanilla. When fully combined, Beat well on high for 2 minutes.

Gently stir in white vinegar and boiling water.

Pour into prepared pans and bake 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool in pan for 30 minutes, remove from pans and chill in fridge until cold.

Return the cakes to pan(upside down) and divide ice cream evenly between the 2 cakes.

Freeze until the ice cream is solid.

Fudge Sauce: (this makes about 3/4 cup)

6 TB white sugar
1 1/2 TB special dark baking cocoa
1/4 tsp cinnamon
pinch of salt
1/4 cup evaporated milk*
1 TB butter
1/4 tsp vanilla

* to avoid opening a whole can you can mix 2 1/2 TB dry milk powder in 3 TB water for the evaporated milk

In a small sauce pan mix sugar cocoa cinnamon and salt. Stir in evaporated milk and bring to a boil over medium heat, boil 2 minutes stirring constantly.

Remove from heat(still stirring) and stir in butter and vanilla.

Allow to cool.

Frosting:

1 1/2 cups whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup special dark baking cocoa

Sift powdered sugar and cocoa together.

In a chilled bowl whip cream until it starts to thicken. Add cocoa sugar and whip until stiff peaks form.

Assembly:

Remove cakes from pans, place one on a platter, cake side down

Top with 1/2 the remaining brownie pieces and 1/2 cup of the fudge sauce. (warm it just to drizzle consistency. It cant be HOT though.)

Top with the other cake(cake side down) smooth up edges of the ice cream to fill in any gaps.

Frost quickly with the whipped cream frosting... Top with remaining brownie pieces and drizzle with remaining fudge sauce(again, warmed just slightly)

Return to the freezer to freeze firmly. (you may need to smooth the sides as it firms up, as you can see it was a TAD on the runny side due to the warm fudge sauce.

I had a near catastrophe and my freezer had been turn to low...I almost cried when I saw it but thankfully it was still frozen enough to salvage!!!

Allow to defrost for a few minutes before slicing!

Bubble Time!!

2013-04-17T14:31:00.004-07:00

Spring is finally making a little appearance....for how long? Who really knows, but I decided to make the best of it and make GIANT bubbles. I have yet to find a PERFECT bubble mix, but this one is good for some entertainment.

Bubble Wand:

2 - 24 inch pieces of wood....dowels, scrap wood, whatever you have that can easily be held by little hands. I found 2 pieces of scrap wood and painted them.

2 - 1 inch wood screws

2 pieces of strong cotton string*
Length is up to you but make 1 about 33% longer than the other. I did 45 inches and about 60 inches. Longer the strings, the larger the bubbles.

*I found some sting at goodwill and braided it into a 3 layer piece to strengthen it.

4 small metal washers

Screw the screws into the ends of the wooden pieces, leaving about 1/4 inch of the head out. Make sure you sand down that side....unlike my photo LOL...

Tie the ends of the short string tightly to the screw on each of wood pieces.

Tie 1 end of the longer string onto 1 screw.

Thread the washers onto the string, then tie the end to the other screw.

Bubbles:

In a large bucket mix 1- 16 oz bottle light corn syrup with 10 cups distilled water Mix it WELL here.
For even stronger bubbles, mix in 1/4-1/2 cup liquid glycerin.

GENTLY stir in 1-30 oz bottle QUALITY liquid dish soap(some people have a brand preference, I think all that REALLY matters is that its not a watery store brand and make make sure it doesn't have any extras, like bleach.)

GENTLE GENTLE GENTLE, you want to make as little foam as possible during this process.

For best results let it sit, covered, overnight but if you are really anxious you can use it in as little as 2 hours.

Dip your wand into the bubble solution.

Pull it out and open it up, then wave it around gently to make some SUPER bubbles!!!

Luscious Red Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

2013-04-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

I love fruits in my salads. This made for a delicious dinner with a side of good garlic bread.

2/3 cup dried cranberries(I used Pomegranate Juice infused ones! IF in season, pomegranate arils are a fantastic addition or replacement!!)
2 red apples, diced *
2 cups sliced strawberries
1 diced red bell pepper

Amounts to taste:
diced turkey
shredded carrots
shredded zucchini
greens(I used spring mix)
feta cheese
any other veggies you see fit, stick to mild ones so they don't compete with the fruit mix though!

Citrus Vinaigrette:

2 TB zest of orange
1 TB zest of lemon
Juice of 2 large oranges
Juice of 1 medium lemon
1 TB minced white onion
2 TB apple cider vinegar
2 tsp brown sugar
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1/2 tsp dry mustard
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup olive oil

in a blender place juices, zests and remaining ingredients except the olive oil, blend on low,

turn up the speed and slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully infused.

Place in a jar with a tight lid and allow the flavors to mingle for at least an hour. Shake well before using.

* to keep apples from browning immerse in a mixture of 1 TB lemon juice to 1 cup water immediately after slicing, drain well.

Gently mix together the cranberries, apples, strawberries and red bell pepper, set aside.

On a plate arrange greens, turkey and veggies as desired. Top with a scoop of the fruit mixture, sprinkle with feta and drizzle with citrus dressing.

Creamy Southwest Pasta and Black Beans

2013-04-15T18:39:00.000-07:00

I wanted a meatless pasta dish that I could prep ahead of time for Taekwon Do night. I pulled out an old pasta cookbook my aunt gave me and started skimming it. I found some basic ideas and decided to branch off of those. This would also be fantastic with shredded chicken so I am adding the poultry label as well.

1 lb pasta(I have been lazy about pasta making lately so I used Sam Mills Gluten Free Shells)

1 TB butter
2 cups cooked black beans(about 1 can, drained and rinsed)
1 cup frozen corn
1/2 cup tomato salsa
4 oz green chilies, chopped

1 1/2 cups fat free evaporated milk
2 TB cornstarch
8 oz shredded pepper jack cheese(you can use Monterrey Jack if you dont want the kick)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 TB lime juice
salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 small red bell pepper, diced
1/2 small orange bell pepper, diced
*for a spicy kick, add in 1 small jalapeno, minced

Cook pasta according to manufacturers instructions

In a medium pan heat butter over medium heat. Add in black beans, corn, salsa and chilies. Stir and cook 1 minute.

Whisk cornstarch into milk and slowly add it to black bean mixture, cook and stir until the milk thickens.

Remove from heat add 1 1/4 cups of the cheese. Stir until fully melted. Stir in lime juice, red pepper and salt and pepper to taste.

Add green onions and both bell peppers.

In a large casserole dish gently toss the cheese sauce with the pasta.

I made it to this point and covered it with foil and placed it in the fridge. If you do this , make sure to pull it out about 30 minutes before you plan to cook it!!

Preheat oven to 350

Bake, covered for 30 minutes , remove cover and sprinkle on remaining cheese. Bake 5-10 minutes more until melted and bubbly!

BBQ Chicken and Apple Pot Pie with Cornbread Crust

2013-04-12T18:02:00.001-07:00

I wanted something with chicken and apples....and bacon....and bbq sauce...lets throw them all in a pan and see what happens LOL....

1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

1/2 cup chopped onion
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 small zucchini, diced
1 TB olive oil

2 large apples, cored and diced
1 cup water
2 TB lemon juice

1 1/2 cups bbq sauce, homemade is fantastic!!
1 TB cider vinegar
1 TB brown sugar

Cornbread Crust:
1 1/2 cups cornmeal
1/2 cup flour(GF flour mix is great! add 1 tsp xanthan gum)
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 TB sugar(optional)
1 TB white vinegar
1 1/2 cups milk
1 egg
6 TB butter, melted
3/4 cup frozen corn, defrosted (optional, I usually add this, but I was out!)

In a large bowl place shredded chicken and crumbled bacon. Set aside

In a pan over medium heat heat olive oil and add onion, carrots and zucchini. Stir and cook until the onion is translucent and the veggies are tender crisp.

Add to the chicken and bacon.

Mix the water and lemon juice in a large dish, dip chopped apples in and allow to sit for a minute.

Drain well and add to the chicken, bacon and veggie mix.

Mix BBQ sauce with vinegar and sugar. Pour over chicken mix and toss gently.

Pour into a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish.

Preheat oven to 350

Cornbread crust.
Mix white vinegar and milk, allow to sit for 5 minutes. Add in egg and beat gently.

Mix together cornmeal, flour, baking soda, salt and sugar.

Add in milk mixture, stir to combine, then gently drizzle in melted butter(and corn if using). Don't over mix.

Gently scoop cornbread batter over the chicken mixture. Spread gently to the edges.

Bake in preheated over 35-45 minutes until the bread is golden brown.

Allow to set for a few minutes before slicing.

Turnip and Kale Chowder

2013-04-10T18:05:00.000-07:00

It is rainy and chilly today, ok so it was in the morning , by afternoon it was sunny but WINDY....
I decided to make a nice warm chowder for dinner. I had my ham bone from Easter so I threw that in too.... Omit the ham and use veggie broth for a vegetarian dish! I served with a Side of Cracked Pepper and Parmesan Bread Sticks(I made them gluten free)

2 TB butter
2 lbs turnips
1/2 lb red potatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
8 cups broth(chicken or veggie)
meaty ham bone(if using)

1/2 lb carrots, peeled and grated
2 cups kale, coarsely chopped
1 cup frozen corn, defrosted
1 cup lowfat milk
1 TB cornstarch
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 TB dried parsley
1 tsp paprika
salt and pepper to taste

Peel and chop 1 1/2 lbs of the turnips and the red potatoes.

In a large pot over medium heat melt butter, add turnips, potatoes, garlic and onion. Turn to coat with butter, cook for a few moments until it gets fragrant and the veggies start to brown.

Add broth and ham bone. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes until the veggies are very tender.

Remove ham bone, set aside to cool.

Remove from heat and with a handheld immersion blender puree the vegetables and broth( transfer to a regular blender if you don't have a hand held, but you will need to work in batches)

Return to puree to the heat.

When the ham bone is cool, remove as much meat as you can and return it to the soup, discard the bone.

Peel and grate your remaining 1/2 lb turnips. Add those plus the carrots, corn and kale to the soup.

Whisk cornstarch and baking soda into cold milk and add to the soup along with the seasonings. Stir gently.

Simmer for another 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender and it is slightly thickened.

Slow Cooker Lemon Lime Pork Chops with Creamy Cilantro Sauce

2013-04-08T18:48:00.002-07:00

I found these chops on the "Taste of Home" website. It was kind of what I was looking for so I decided to modify it a bit. I really wanted to serve these on grilled cactus panels but when I went to the store I was disappointed to find out they were not carrying them!! BUMMER! I hope they are just not in season and will be back soon because I would really miss them.

6 chops(I prefer boneless)

Zest from 1 small lime
Juice from 2 small limes(about 1/4 cup)
Zest from 1/2 medium lemon
Juice from 1 medium lemon(about 1/2 cup)
1 TB ground cumin
1/2 TB chili powder
1/2 TB garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
salt and pepper to taste

Got a new attachment for my kitchenaind!! ----------->

Zesting tip: peel with a potato peeler and chop in a coffee grinder!

In a slow cooker place the chops

In a bowl combine the marinade ingredients and mix well, set aside 2 TB marinade.

Pour remaining marinade over chops, set to low and cook 6-8 hours (time depends on the thickness of your chops so check as needed for a temp of 165)

Cilantro Sauce:
2 TB cornstarch
2 TB reserved marinade
1 cup milk
2 tsp chicken bullion granules
1 cup loosely packed cilantro leaves
salt and pepper to taste

When the chops are done or nearing done set them to warm and start the sauce:
In a blender combine all ingredients except cornstarch and blend until rather smooth. Add in cornstarch and blend a few more seconds to combine

Pour milk mixture into sauce pan and heat over medium heat

Whisking and cook until thickened.

Salt and Pepper to taste

Place chops on a plate and top with Sauce

Baked Apple and Cheese Omelette Roll

2013-04-04T17:52:00.002-07:00

No one was really hungry this evening so I was trying to come up with something lite. I don't really know what sparked this idea but with google's help I found a few seeds that sprouted into a delicious meal.

8 eggs

1/4 cup half and half

2 medium apples(preferably tart ones)

1 TB lemon juice

1 TB butter

pinch of cinnamon

pinch of allspice

1/4 cup onion, minced well

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup baby spinach, torn into small pieces

Preheat oven to 350 and Grease a rimmed cookie sheet or jelly roll pan.

In a large bowl beat eggs with half and half until light and fluffy.

Pour eggs into pan and bake for 20 minutes until the eggs are well set.

While the eggs are cooking heat 1 TB butter in a large pan over medium heat, add apples, lemon juice, onion, cinnamon and allspice.

Cook until the apples are tender crisp and just starting to brown.

Remove from heat and add spinach, stirring to wilt slightly.

When the eggs are done gently spread the apple mixture over the surface. Sprinkle with 1/2 the cheese. Starting with the short end roll up VERY gently.

Top with remaining cheese

Place it back in the oven to melt the cheese...

Allow to cool for a few moments before slicing.

Orange French Toast

2013-04-02T18:06:00.001-07:00

I used my Orange Bread for this, but regular bread would be just as tasty!!!

12 thick slices Orange Bread(or French Bread)

Zest from 1 medium orange*
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
3/4 cup half and half
4 large eggs
2 TB sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Combine zest with orange juice and half and half add in eggs and whip well, then add in sugar and vanilla ans stir until combined.

Heat a griddle pan to 325 (medium/medium high) and grease well.

Dip each slice of bread in the orange juice mixture and allow to soak for a few seconds, flip to the other side. Then place on the hot griddle.

Cook until browned nicely(5-7 minutes or so, depending on your griddle temp) and gently flip. Cook the other side for another 4-6 minutes until that side is browned as well.

Place on a plate and top with fresh whipped cream and some oranges....I even put on a little bit of 100% maple syrup.

Enjoy!

*Zest tip:

Peel off the orange rind with a potato peeler, then put it in a (clean!)coffee grinder and process until fine!

Then you can juice the orange for the fresh juice!

Orange Bread (or Knots)

2013-04-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

I made Orange Knots for Easter Dinner, but when the dough was done I realized I had WAY too much for my little dinner for 5. I split it in half and made half of it a loaf of bread.

I will add in pictures next time since I do plan to make this again!!! (also I will be testing a gluten free version)

This will make 2 large loaves, it freezes well too!

I made my loaf into French Toast!

2 TB yeast
3/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice, slightly warmed(not too hot, no more than 110)
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup milk
1/2 cup butter
2 eggs
4 1/2-5 cups flour
3/4 tsp salt
zest from 1 large orange(about 2 TB)

In a bowl dissolve yeast in orange juice, mix in sugar and allow to sit until the yeast is foamy.

In a sauce pan scald milk gently then add in butter, stirring gently until fully melted. Remove from heat an allow to cool to lukewarm(placing the pan in ice water helps it cool faster if you like.

Add eggs and salt to the yeast mixture.
Then add in cooled milk mixture and zest.

1/2 cup at a time add in flour, switching to a dough hook (or hands if mixing by hand) when necessary. Add enough flour so that it sticks together but not to your hands.
Knead until smooth and elastic.

Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Punch Dough down, divided in half and

For Bread:
Place in greased large bread pans(mine are 10 x 5).

Allow to rise 30-45 minutes more

preheat oven to 350 and bake about 50-60 minutes until it sounds hollow when thumped lightly.

Remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

For Knots:
Divided dough into 24 pieces, roll each one out like a snake and tie into a loose knot. Place on greased baking sheet.

Allow to rise 30-45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 35 and bake 30 minutes or until hollow sounding when thumped
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Roasted Chicken and Spinach Pesto Focaccia Sandwiches

2013-03-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

This is kind of a last minute recipe....I didn't really think it would become a blog recipe but it is just so delicious I had to share! I made them with my Dragon's Blood Soup.

Focaccia Bread, I made my gluten free recipe and made 6 pieces)
Roasted Chicken, I made up 2 leg quarters this morning, it was just perfect for 6 sandwiches
Cheese, I used pepper jack
Sun Dried Tomatoes
Banana Peppers
Mayo

Spinach Pesto...super easy nut-less recipe:
4 cups baby spinach leaves
1 TB lemon juice
1 clove garlic
2 TB basil leaves(2 tsp dried is fine if you dont have fresh)
2 TB fresh grated parmesan cheese
3 TB olive oil
salt to taste

In a blender or food processor place spinach, lemon juice, garlic, basil parm cheese and 1 TB oil. Process until the leaves are chopped well.....slowly drizzle in the remaining olive oil and process until very smooth add salt to taste.

slice your focaccia bread and spread half with pesto , add chicken sun dried tomatoes and banana peppers, top with cheese and place under a hot broiler until the cheese is melty and the chicken in heated through.
Spread the remaining side with mayo and top....put it back under the broiler for a bit to toast that top bread.

Slice and enjoy!