A to Z Recipes Newsletter 11-01-2009 EZezine


A to Z Recipes Newsletter
A to Z Recipes                                    November 1, 2009
Always something to make you think, laugh and cook.

 

Newsletter Archive | A to Z Recipes Yahoo Group | Read the issue Online |

Today's Issue


Publisher's Desk
Just a Pinch of Kindness
Food For Thought
Ramblings
Did You Know?
Monthly Theme, Recipe Submissions
Reader Support
Birthday Babies (ends 12/31/2009)
Crazy Corner
Recipe Reviews, Reader Comments
Reader Recipe Favorites
Heart Healthy
Diabetic Choices
For Two
Publisher's Choice
A to Z Recipes QT Chat
Please visit the A to Z Recipes aStore
A to Z Recipes Recommended Reading
A to Z Recipes Yahoo Group
A to Z Readers' Family-Owned Business Guide





Publisher's Desk



Good morning and welcome to your Sunday edition of A to Z Recipes Newsletter. Can you believe it is November already? And that means next month is... uh, oh. I need more paychecks before I can think of December. Goodness. But I'll be tickled pink to have cold weather. We need cold weather for Christmas. OK, in Texas we want cold weather. We don't always get it, though.

Just a quick reminder... no recent issues, new graphics, or recent archives may be viewed from the a2z web site. Everything should be back to normal in another few days or so.

The current Monthly Theme topic is announced in today's issue. Please visit the Monthly Theme - Recipe Submissions section to read all about it. You'll find the link there to use for sharing recipes here at A to Z Recipes.

We've got some wonderful recipes in this issue. Some of you have truly outdone your normal greatness, lol. Of course, some of you have not been active and perhaps now is the time you should sit down and select a few recipes to share and send them along. Right? Then enjoy all that has been shared here in this great issue.

We'll see you here again on Wedneday, God willing. Don't forget to set your clocks back this morning!


PS: Bling! Bling! Bling!
If you're interested in Las Vegas in 2010, please visit this link right away.


Kitchen tools and gadgets at Amazon.com.



Just a Pinch of Kindness



SmilesForSophie

Help find a cure. Become a Partner in Hope. Join my family in supporting St Jude's Children's Hospital. The $19 (price of a pizza dinner) a month may help find the cure. It is tax-deductible and makes you feel so good about yourself!

Give a Child a Cure

Please tell ten friends to tell ten today! The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman.

It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on "donating a mammogram" for free (pink window in the middle).

This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammograms in exchange for advertising. Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.





Food For Thought


~Shared by Jim H., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Heaven is where the police are British,
the chefs Italian,
the mechanics German,
the lovers French,
and it's all organized by the Swiss.

Hell is where the police are German,
the chefs are British,
the mechanics French,
the lovers Swiss,
and it is all organized by the Italians.


drugstore.com

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Ramblings



~Shared by Treva, NC

You only live once.  And, it does not hurt to think of this, from time to time.  The worst thing would be to look back on your life, wishing you could have been happier or done more.

Don't let this happen!  Now is the time to take a good look at your life and make changes so that you have no regrets.

We all know time flies.  Days, weeks. months and years slip away.  Don't let them pass you by.  Make the necessary changes that bring happy, joyful memories, so you can look back with no regrets.

Everyone has disappointments, setbacks, bad breaks and frustrations. Sometimes it seems that they all come at once, and we find ourselves in a funk. Suddenly we start to see the negative side of everything, and that is certainly no way to live. Let's look at some ways to quickly bounce back. Take action. Do something positive. Even if it's just mowing the yard, or cleaning the old files from your hard disk. Taking action puts you in control of your life, and helps you to get positively focused. Small accomplishments can do wonders for your attitude.

Help someone else. Cheerfully do something for another person. Read a book to a child. Make a donation of time or money. Help your neighbor with a project. Give of yourself and you'll feel great.

Count your blessings. There are so many good things about life, and too often we take them for granted. Appreciate and be thankful for your home, your health, your family, your life's experiences, your friends, your skills, your knowledge, and the beautiful world around you. Think of all the people who love you and care about you.

Find a challenge. Re-direct your negative energy and frustrations toward something that will challenge you to be your best.

Things are as negative or as positive as you make them.

You have created your fears. And you can choose to lay them to rest. You have created your dreams. And you can choose to bring them fully to life.

Look all around you and realize that everything you see is what you have chosen to see. Every thought you think is what you have chosen to think.

Day after day, by your words, your actions, and your thoughts, you have chosen your own path. And that path has brought you to precisely where you are.

Now it is time to choose again. Remember that with each and every choice you make, you determine the details of how your life will proceed.

It is a serious responsibility as well as a wonderful, enormous opportunity. For again and again, you can choose your way toward the life you truly wish to live.

~By Ralph Marston


Send Flowers from $19.99 + get a FREE vase! Roses voted best value by WSJ!

Click if you have a submission for the Ramblings section of A to Z Newsletters. Make sure to include your name and location for posting. Thanks!

 


Did You Know?



Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time Fall 2009 is on November 1st at 2 a.m.

In the United States and Canada Daylight Saving Time always begins on the second Sunday of March and ends on the first Sunday of November.

On November 1st 2009 at 2:00 a.m., you set the clocks back an hour.



Autumn's Ambassadors
by Mark R. Vogel
Epicure1@optonline.net

~Shared by Mary, Nashville, TN

The envoys of fall arrive to greet us well before the autumnal equinox. Gourds, which include pumpkins, winter squash, and those warty, odd-shaped decorative miniatures, begin showing up in supermarkets and roadside stands in late summer. Appearing even before the leaves start changing, they're a distinctive harbinger of autumn. For the gourmet, they're a key ingredient in a variety of seasonal dishes.

Squash is the fruit of plants from the gourd family. Squash originated in the western hemisphere and was being consumed by man at least 5,000 years ago, probably longer. Summer squash, such as zucchini and pattypan, although usually available year round, peak in the summer months. Summer squash is distinguished by thin, edible skins, soft seeds, and a high water content. Highly perishable, it will last less than a week in the fridge. Winter squash, e.g., butternut, acorn, spaghetti, etc., is firmer fleshed with thick skin and requires longer cooking. It should not be refrigerated and will keep in a cool dark place for up to a month. Choose squash with a bright, firm skin that is free of bruises. Squash is a good source of vitamins A, B2 and C, as well as niacin, potassium, and iron.

Storage:
Butternut squash can be stored longer than summer squashes because their skin is so hard and thick. Store in a cool dry place for at least a month. If the squash has been cut into pieces, then wrap in a plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 5 days.

Nutritional Qualities:
The following qualities are available in one cup of mashed squash: 80 calories, 2 grams protein, 1 gram fat, 18 grams carbohydrates, with riboflavin, iron, Vitamins A and C.

Wine Pairings:
Depending on what you are serving with your butternut squash and as to how you are preparing it, try a Pinot Grigio or Chenin Blanc to serve with it.

Spices:
Allspice, anise seed, brown sugar, butter, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, ginger, mace, nutmeg, paprika, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme and turmeric.

Equivalencies:
1 pound fresh squash = 3 medium fruits = 3 c. sliced = 1 c. cooked / mashed

Preparation:
Rinse and cut the squash lengthwise. Remove and discard the seeds and excess fiber. May peel skin if desired.

Stir-Fry:
Tender when pierced. Bake: 400 degrees 30 - 40 minutes, uncovered.

Microwave:
1/2 the squash and microwave for 10 -12 minutes.

Boil:
Cut into chunks and boil 7 - 9 minutes.

Steam:
Cube and steam for 6 - 8 minutes.

Roast:
400 degrees for 30 - 45 minutes.


Check Out the Best of As Seen On TV Products at Walter Drake.


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Monthly Theme, Recipe Submissions

Our Monthly Theme topic is: "Luscious Leftovers"

Leftovers again? At my house, it is not always a bad thing. We do more than re-heat the meal from the previous day as there are so many ways to use the foods which gave you a great meal... plus. We're looking for recipes which you find render Luscious Leftover meals for your family. It is important to note that we are not looking for just comments about what you do, or a just a description of what you've done. We need recipes using leftovers with a title, ingredient list, and instructions. This can be a lot of fun even if you're forced to do what I do often, think of what you have the most left over from meals, and look for recipes that call for those ingredients. Since I have many recipes on my computer, I do a search and usually come up with a perfect way to turn a cold blob into warm and Luscious Leftovers! I google quite often to find something different yet will save me money by using leftovers. We also have 'planned-overs' where we prepare a certain meal with leftovers which we plan to use in another meal! With the time of year when there are a LOT of leftovers, this is perfect for November. Good luck with this, it should be fun. And our thanks to Shirley in Bellingham, WA for suggesting it. Join us in this fun monthly theme topic, won't you? Please join in the fun and send in your "Luscious Leftovers" for this Monthly Theme topic.

Note: There are still some readers who routinely send in an email that says "do this... do that" and call it a recipe submission. I have graciously put it all in recipe format and made you a hero. PLEASE provide a recipe, i.e.: Title, Ingredients, Procedure, along with your name and location. You'll be an even bigger hero in my eyes! Please share your favorite recipes in this month's theme topic of "Luscious Leftovers". We will collect them the remainder of this month and post them on the first Sunday of next month. Please understand that we do not wish to infringe on copyrighted material; if your source states it is copyrighted then do not send it. Make sure to view the rules section to ensure your submissions are acceptable.

The rules for posting items in A to Z Recipes newsletters are:

As a service to your fellow readers, please send only items that are in a form that others could easily copy and save for their own use. Items that would require a lot of editing or cleaning up (ALL caps or NO caps) or recipes that use non-standard measurements should not be submitted. Recipes MUST include a title, list of ingredients (no columns or frames), and directions for preparation. Items for posting without a name and location of sender may NOT be posted or posted without any credit given. Many web sites prohibit distribution of their materials without a web link. If you wish to submit an item from another web site, be sure that web site allows it. If so, you must include the web site address (the URL - in other words - cut and paste the address shown in your web browser when you viewed the item on that web site). It is unreasonable to expect a2z to research and verify your sources. There will be NO recipes posted that are copyrighted or from other recipe-zines. A to Z Recipes protects the privacy of its readers and does NOT publish email addresses. There will be no exceptions.

Please use this email link for submitting only regular recipes: A to Z Recipes Inbox.
Please use this email link for submitting only theme recipes: "Luscious Leftovers".
Please use this email link for submitting all other items for posting: A to Z Recipes.

See the A to Z Recipes Theme Issues collection here: A to Z Recipes Theme Issues

The theme issue for "Luscious Leftovers" has a deadline of November 30, 2009, and will be posted on December 6, 2009.

Please use this email link to submit a recipe for theme recipes: "Luscious Leftovers"
As usual, only recipes are to be sent to: A to Z Recipes Inbox.



 


Reader Support


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Vote for this Ezine at the Cumuli Ezine Finder.

A to Z Recipes operates solely through reader support. Your donation helps to defray the expenses involved with publishing this newsletter and the web site. There is no monetary gain involved, only the opportunity for you to offset the Publisher's expenses thereto. You may donate through PayPal, or other methods listed.

To make donations using other methods, go here. 

 


Birthday Babies


Would you like to celebrate your birthday with us here at A to Z Recipes? We would love to help you only a2z readers... not friends or family members. This feature will cease at the end of this year. Please do not send any birthdays that occur after December 2009.

Please send your request using this link. Tell us so we can strike up the band and light the candles on that cake. Please,
basic information:


Your Name (first name required)
Where you live (city and state required)
Your birthday (month and day required)


Happy Birthday

Here are our November Birthday Babies:

2nd Patricia F. in Nebraska
2nd Sandy in Wise, Virginia
2nd Cindy in Salem, Ohio
2nd Veronica in Sorrento, Louisiana
3rd Patty R. in Alaska
4th Linda H. in Carmel, New York
4th Sheridan in Scandia, Kansas
6th Nancy S. in Elma, Washington
6th Trina S. in Commercial Point, Ohio
7th Shernette R. in Hanover, Jamaica, W. I.
7th Beverly H. in Long Beach, California
8th Janet S. in Winona, Minnesota
8th Sheila G. in Cedartown, Georgia
8th Brenda H. in West Lafayette, Ohio
8th Sally H. in Boise, Idaho
9th Bill E. in Rocky Mount, North Carolina
11th Sandy M. in Benzonia, Michigan
12th Aafrin in Pune, India
13th Joan in Savona, British Columbia, Canada
13th Anita, Battle Ground, WA
14th Marilyn B. in Center Line, Michigan
14th Susan H. in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania
15th Cheryl in Chicago, Illinois
15th Christine in London, Ontario, Canada
16th Laura B. in Jonesville, Louisiana
16th Carole L. in Binghamton, New York
17th Don G. in Georgia
17th Mary S. in Nashville, Tennessee
19th Anna F. in Dickinson, North Dakota
19th Amber T. in Drumright, Oklahoma
20th Helen J. in North Fort Myers, Florida
20th Virginia M. in Lagos
20th Brenda S. in The Chaco, Paraguay
21st Jaye P. in Fairbanks, Alaska
23rd Mechelle D. in Tampa, Florida
25th Carol A. in Northern California
26th Marge in South Dakota
26th Olga R. in Williamstown, New Jersey
26th Cindy L. in Charleston, West Virginia
27th Linda C. in Ardmore, Oklahoma
28th Stoney S. in Mount Hope, Virginia
28th Cherie S. in Westport, Washington
29th Linda in Huber Heights, Ohio
29th Kathy C. in Bartlesville, Oklahoma
30th Bill R. in Madison, Wisconsin

Only emails using the appropriate link and containing the basic information will be considered for posting.


 


Crazy Corner



Maxine...

Pregnancy, Estrogen and Women

~Shared by Jean, OH

Q: Should I have a baby after 35?
A: No, 35 children is enough.

Q: I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?
A: With any luck, right after he finishes college.

Q: What is the most reliable method to determine a baby's sex?
A: Childbirth.

Q: My wife is five months pregnant and so moody that sometimes she's borderline irrational.
A: So what's your question?

Q: My childbirth instructor says it's not pain I'll feel during labor, but pressure. Is she right?
A: Yes, in the same way that a tornado might be called an air current.

Q: When is the best time to get an epidural?
A: Right after you find out you're pregnant.

Q: Is there any reason I have to be in the delivery room while my wife is in labor?
A: Not unless the word 'alimony' means anything to you.

Q: Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from childbirth?
A: Yes, pregnancy.

Q: Do I have to have a baby shower?
A: Not if you change the baby's diaper very quickly.

Q: Our baby was born last week. When will my wife begin to feel and act normal again?
A: When the kids are in college.


'ESTROGEN ISSUES'
10 WAYS TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE 'ESTROGEN ISSUES'


1. Everyone around you has an attitude problem.
2. You're adding chocolate chips to your cheese omelet.
3. The dryer has shrunk every last pair of your jeans.
4. Your husband is suddenly agreeing to everything you say.
5. You're using your cellular phone to dial up every bumper sticker that says: 'How's my driving-call 1- 800-'.
6. Everyone's head looks like an invitation to batting practice.
7. Everyone seems to have just landed here from 'outer space'.
9 You're sure that everyone is scheming to drive you crazy.
10. The ibuprofen bottle is empty and you bought it yesterday..


TOP TEN THINGS ONLY WOMEN UNDERSTAND

10. Cats' facial expressions.
9. The need for the same style of shoes in different colors.
8. Why bean sprouts aren't just weeds.
7. Fat clothes.
6 Taking a car trip without trying to beat your best time.
5. The difference between beige, ecru, cream, off-white, and eggshell.
4. Cutting your hair to make it grow.
3. Eyelash curlers.
2. The inaccuracy of every bathroom scale ever made.

AND, the Number One thing only women understand:

1. OTHER WOMEN



Top Ten Signs Your Girlfriend is Going to Dump You...

~Shared by Jim D., WA

10. Your visa card and your belt both hit their limit.

9. She's been wearing an engagement ring for three weeks, but you don't recall proposing to her.

8. She just started a college course that meets seven nights a week.

7. She says she has to tell you something... on Jerry Springer.

6. Her love letters come soaked in formaldehyde rather than perfume.

5. Whenever she introduces you it's always "I would like you to meet an old friend of mine..."

4. She leaves a message on your phone and identifies herself by both her first and last names.

3. Your other girlfriend told you so.

2. The dartboard behind your photo on her wall.

1. Her girlfriends look at you, tilt their heads, and say, "You haven't got a clue, do you?"


bareMinerals now on Beauty.com!


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Recipe Reviews, Reader Comments



If you try a recipe from any posted, and have a recipe review, please send me an email using this Recipe Review link and make sure to include the following to qualify for posting:

Recipe title
Name of submitter (who submitted the recipe?)
Your name and location for posting (required!)
Date recipe was posted (date of newsletter)
Your comments (how was it? is it a "keeper"?)

I will post all qualifying recipe reviews here. You can also send comments for all to read here. As long as what you have to say is something others would want to read, this is the place to do it. Your name and location is required!

 


Reader Recipe Favorites

Looking for a particular recipe, ingredient or submitter?
Search A to Z Recipes Site and Newsletters:


JUICY TWO-STAGE THANKSGIVING TURKEY MARINADE

~Shared by Dorie, IL
A2Z Recipes Yahoo Forum Moderator

Brine (for Tuesday morning):
1 cup salt
1 cup orange juice
1 cup brown sugar
1 gallon water
1 (3 inch) cinnamon stick
1 (15 pound) turkey, thawed if purchased frozen
 
Marinade (for Wednesday morning):
3 oranges, sliced
3 lemons, sliced
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon whole cloves
1/4 cup garlic powder
2 (3 inch) cinnamon sticks
2 tablespoons paprika
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons ground black pepper

On the Tuesday morning before Thanksgiving, whisk together salt, orange juice, brown sugar, a cinnamon stick and water in a large nonreactive container with a cover, such as a large stainless steel stockpot. Stir until salt and sugar dissolve, about 5 minutes. Place the turkey into the brine, cover, and refrigerate overnight.

The next day, remove turkey from the first marinade, shake off excess, and pat the bird dry. Discard the brine. Clean the stockpot or brining container.

In the clean stockpot, make the marinade by stirring together together sliced oranges, sliced lemons, onion, green bell pepper, parsley, cloves, garlic powder, cinnamon sticks, paprika, olive oil, and pepper. Place the turkey into the stockpot and rub the marinade into the turkey. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

On Thanksgiving Day, remove turkey from the marinade and shake off the excess. Discard the remaining marinade. Roast the turkey using your favorite method.


TURKEY GIBLET STOCK

~Shared by Dorie, IL
A2Z Recipes Yahoo Forum Moderator

Neck and giblets (excluding liver) from turkey
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 celery rib, coarsely chopped
1 carrot, coarsely chopped
1 onion, peeled and quartered
10 cups water
1 Turkish bay leaf or 1/2 California
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled
1/4 teaspoon salt

Pat neck and giblets dry. Heat oil in a 3-quart heavy saucepan over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then brown neck and giblets, 10 to 15 minutes. Add remaining ingredients and simmer, uncovered, until neck and giblets are very tender, about 3 hours. Pour stock through a large fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, reserving gizzard and heart for gravy if desired but discarding remaining solids. If using broth right away, let stand until fat rises to top, 1 to 2 minutes, then skim off and discard fat.

If stock measures less than 4 cups, add water. If more, boil, uncovered, in clean pot until reduced to 4 cups.

If not using stock right away, cool completely, uncovered, then chill, covered, before skimming fat (it will be easier to remove when cool or cold).

Pressure cooker option:
Brown neck and giblets in a 6-quart pressure cooker, uncovered, according to procedure above. Reduce amount of water from 10 cups to 5 cups but keep remaining ingredients the same. Add remaining ingredients, seal pressure cooker with lid, and cook at high pressure according to manufacturer's instructions, 45 minutes. Put pressure cooker in sink (do not remove lid) and run cold water over lid until pressure goes down completely. Remove lid, then strain and measure stock according to procedure above.


SLOPPY JOES

~Shared by Johnny, LA

5 lb. hamburger
1 1/2 cups green deseeded pepper, chopped
3 medium yellow onions, chopped
3 6oz. cans tomato paste
3 stalks celery, chopped
4 cups catsup
1/4 cup vinegar
5 cups water
2 T Worcestershire sauce

Brown hamburger, drain and put in a Dutch oven with all ingredients. Bring to a boil, then simmer 1 1/4 hours.  Cool and place in Zip Lock bags as individual servings.  Freeze.  Microwave to use.  Serve over toasted hamburger buns.


RED VELVET INSANITY CUPCAKES

~Shared by Doe, Oliver, B.C., Canada
 
Red HOT!
These cupcakes are so moist, so delicious, so RED, and so completely guilt-free, that writing extra words to introduce this recipe would be a complete and total waste of everyone's time. So here ya go... HG's Red Velvet Insanity Cupcakes!
 
For Frosting
6 tbsp. Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Crème
6 tbsp. Cool Whip Free, thawed
1/4 cup fat-free cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp. Splenda No Calorie Sweetener (granulated)
 
For Cupcakes
1 cup Pillsbury Moist Supreme Reduced Sugar Cake Mix, Devil's Food
1 cup Pillsbury Moist Supreme Reduced Sugar Cake Mix, Classic Yellow
Two 25-calorie diet hot cocoa mix packets
1/2 cup fat-free liquid egg substitute (like Egg Beaters)
1/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
1/2 oz. Red food coloring
1 tsp. Splenda No Calorie Sweetener (granulated)
1/8 tsp. Salt
 
Place half of your chocolate chips (2 tbsp.) and the contents of both cocoa packets in a tall glass. Add 12 ounces of boiling water, and stir until chips and cocoa mix have dissolved. Place glass in the freezer until mixture is cold (about 30 minutes). Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, mix together marshmallow crème, cream cheese, and 1 tbsp. Splenda until smooth. Fold in Cool Whip. Place bowl in the fridge to chill until cupcakes are ready to be frosted. Once the cocoa in the freezer has chilled, give it a stir, and pour it into a large mixing bowl. Add the cake mixes, egg substitute, remaining chocolate chips, red food coloring, 1 tsp. Splenda, and salt. Using a whisk or fork, mix batter for about 2 minutes (until smooth and blended). Batter will be thin, but don't worry, your cupcakes will puff up once baked! Line a 12-cup muffin pan with baking cups, and spray lightly with nonstick spray (or simply spray the pan with nonstick spray). Evenly spoon batter into the pan. Place pan in the oven, and bake for 15 - 20 minutes. Cupcakes will look shiny when done. Once cupcakes have cooled completely, evenly spread the frosting over them. Enjoy!

MAKES 12 SERVINGS
 
Serving Size: 1 frosted cupcake
Calories: 134
Fat: 3g
Sodium: 266mg
Carbs: 25g
Fiber: 0.75g
Sugars: 11g
Protein: 3g


OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE MARINADE
(Copy Cat Recipe)

~Shared by Treva, NC

1 cup Scottish ale
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Accent Flavor Enhancer

Place your favorite cut of steak in a shallow pan and pour ale on steak and marinate for 1 hour in refrigerator. Remove steak from ale and mix dry ingredients together and rub steak on both sides. Let marinate with dry ingredients for 1/2 hour. Preheat a skillet or grill to med high heat add vegetable spray or vegetable oil and braise to perfection.

Steak Cooking Tips
- One of the most important steak cooking tips is to start out with a good steak in the first place. A poorly cooked steak that is of prime grade will still likely taste better than a low grade steak that is cooked well.

- Look for a steak with marbling throughout. This will ensure that it is flavorful and remains juicy.

- Refrain from cutting open your steak to see if it is done. Doing so will release valuable juices.

Source: "America's Secret Recipes"


ASPARAGUS WITH ORANGE SAUCE

~Shared by Jim D., WA

2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
One third cup orange juice
1 Tbsp. grated orange zest
One quarter cup butter
One quarter tsp. salt

Blanch asparagus by placing in a saucepan and covering asparagus with water. Cook until crisp-tender. Drain off water. Combine orange juice, orange zest, butter and salt in saucepan and heat until thickened. Pour over asparagus and serve.

For best flavor, don't substitute for the butter.


PASTA WITH MARINATED ARTICHOKE HEARTS

~Shared by Linda H., Rosharon, TX

6 ounces artichoke hearts, marinated 
1 tablespoon olive oil 
1 tablespoon butter, unsalted 
1 cup onion, chopped 
1 teaspoon basil, dried 
1/2 cup sour cream 
1/2 cup cottage cheese 
salt and black pepper to taste
cayenne pepper to taste
parmesan cheese to taste

Drain the liquid from the marinated artichoke hearts into a skillet.  Slice the drained hearts into bite-sized pieces. Add the olive oil and butter to the drained-off marinade in the skillet. Heat this mixture, add the onions and sauté them until soft (5-8 minutes).  Add the artichoke hearts and basil. Sauté 3-5 more minutes. Remove from heat, stir in remaining ingredients and serve over 1/2 pound pasta.

Source: RecipeLand


DRUNKEN GRILLED WINGS

~Shared by Jim H., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

These wings are so easy to make, and finger licking good. Every time I bring these to the office as a snack they go in minutes. I usually marinate a whole heap of these wings, and divide them up into bags in the freezer. And each time I am pushed for time, I just pull out a bag (a portion enough for my family) and pop them into the grill. The longer the wings stay marinated, the tastier they are. Whatever you do, do NOT leave the honey out. Makes a BIG difference. Pretty healthy dish. ~by KitchenManiac

30 min; 10 min prep
SERVES 4 -6

20 chicken wings, with drumlets attached
3 tablespoons oyster sauce
1/4 cup light soya sauce
10 cloves garlic, minced (very fine)
2 teaspoons ginger, minced (very fine)
2 teaspoons white pepper
2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce (optional)
1/3 cup bourbon (Any kind)
1/3 cup honey

Cut chicken wings into two pieces. One part wing, and the other drumlet. Mix remaining ingredients together in a bowl. Add the chicken wings and drumlets into bowl and mix well. Wrap bowl with glad wrap and pop it into the fridge overnight. The next day, place chicken on the grill and brush with remaining juices in the bowl. Grill the chicken at 400 Fahrenheit for 20 minutes turning over once. The more often juices from the bowl is brushed on, the tastier the wings will be.

Source: Recipezaar


CHAMPAGNE RAISIN SAUCE FOR BAKED HAM

~Shared by Jean, Syracuse, NY
Please visit my web site: Cookin' With JP

3/4 c. raisins
1 c. white wine (champagne or chablis)
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. cornstarch
3 tbsp. butter

Cover raisins with 1/2 cup wine and simmer 5 minutes. Add sugar, butter, salt, cloves, cinnamon and cornstarch dissolved in balance of wine. Stir until mixture thickens. Serve hot.

Will serve 5 or 6.


SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN SKILLET

~Shared by Barb C., Chula Vista, CA

Prep Time: 5 min
Total Time: 25 min
Makes: 4 servings

1 Tbsp. Oil
4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 lb.)
1 cup TACO BELL HOME ORIGINALS Thick 'N Chunky Salsa
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen corn
2 cups MINUTE Brown Rice, uncooked
1/4 cup KRAFT 2% Milk Shredded Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese

HEAT oil in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cover. Cook 4 min. On each side or until cooked through (170°F).

REMOVE chicken from skillet; set aside. Add 2 cups water, the salsa and corn to skillet; mix well. Bring to boil.

STIR in rice. Reduce heat to low; cover. Simmer 5 min. Top rice mixture with the chicken; sprinkle with cheese. Cover; simmer an additional 5 min. Or until cheese is melted.

Source:  LilBitsofThisnThat-PSP@Yahoogroups.com


CHOCOLATE MONKEY

~Shared by Ann S., Mims, FL
 
1 shot Banana liqueur
2 shots Creme de Cacao
2 scoops Chocolate ice-cream
1 oz Chocolate syrup
4 oz Chocolate milk or white milk
1 Whipped cream
1 Cherry
1 piece Banana

Blend liquors with ice-cream, milk and syrup. Pour into parfait glass, top with whipped cream and garnish with banana and cherry.


APPLE MUFFINS

~Shared by Mary H., Montreal, Canada

This recipe was given to me by a marvellous couple who run a tourist farm near where I live.  For a small fee, you can ride in a hay wagon and pick your own apples! 

3 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup oil
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups flour
1 cup oatmeal
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 cups finely chopped apples, peeled and cored

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Line muffin tins with paper liners.  Beat eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla until foamy.  Mix dry ingredients, then add to first mixture.  Add chopped apples and beat until well blended.  Batter will be thick, making it easy to portion it into the muffin tins.  Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

Yield: 18 – 22 muffins.


BLUE RIBBON CHICKEN

~Shared by Dorie, IL
A2Z Recipes Yahoo Forum Moderator
  
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 4 oz.)
2 (1 oz.) slices cooked ham
2 slices Jarlsburg, Muenster or other cheese (about 1 oz.)
2 tbsp. seasoned bread crumbs
1/8 tsp. paprika
2 tsp. butter, melted
 
1. To form a packet, cut each chicken breast half horizontally, almost but not all the way through, cut each ham and cheese slice lengthwise in half. Place slice of ham and cheese in each packet.

2. Combine bread crumbs and paprika. Brush chicken with melted butter, then coat with crumbs. In 12 x 8 inch baking dish, arrange chicken with meater portions towards edges of dish. Cook covered with wax paper on high 7-9 minutes until juice runs clear, when chicken is tested with a knife; rotate dish halfway through cooking.


TORTA CREMA
(Italian Cream Cake)

~Shared by Johnny, LA

1 stick unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
2 cups sugar
5 eggs, separated
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon soda
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 small can flaked coconut
1 cup chopped pecans

Cream the butter and shortening, add the sugar and beat some more. Add egg yolks and beat. Mix flour and baking soda, and add alternately with buttermilk. Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Fold in stiffly beaten egg whites. Pour batter into three well-greased round cake pans or a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan. Bake at 350 for 40 to 45 minutes, until a stick of dry spaghetti inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool before frosting.

Cream Cheese Icing:

1 package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup pure unsalted butter, softened
1 box powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Chopped pecans and coconut

Beat cream cheese until smooth. In another bowl, combine sugar and butter; mix well. Add to cream cheese. Stir in vanilla and beat until smooth. Frost cooled cake in pan or in layers. Top with chopped pecans and a sprinkle of coconut. Serve with good strong coffee, or espresso if you have the equipment.


TOASTED OATMEAL BREAD (ABM)

~Shared by Doe, Oliver, B.C., Canada

For a tasty sandwich, layer shaved turkey, swiss cheese, lettuce & a sliced tomato between 2 slices of this hearty bread.

For 1 1/2 lb loaf:
1 c quick cooking oats
2/3 c milk  
1/3 c water
1 tbsp butter or shortening  
2 1/2 c bread flour  
3 tbsp br sugar
3/4 tsp salt 
1 tsp bread machine yeast

For 2 lb loaf:
1 1/3 c quick oats  
3/4 c milk 
1/2 c water 
2 tbsp butter or shortening 
3 1/3 c bread flour 
1 tsp salt 
1 1/4 tsp machine yeast

Select the loaf size you’re going to make. Spread the oats in shallow baking pan. Bake at 350 for 15-20 mins until light brown, stir occ, cool. Add ingred to bread machine according to its directions, adding the oats with the flour. If available select the whole grain cycle, or select basic white. Cool on wire rack.


SHORTBREAD CARAMEL BROWNIE BARS

~Shared by Treva, NC

1 & 1/2 cups (3/4 lb.) butter
2 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 & 1/4 cups sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
12 ounces individually wrapped soft caramels, such as Kraft
1/4 cup whole milk
10 ounce bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

1. Cut 1 cup butter into chunks. In the bowl of a food processor, combine 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and the butter chunks.  Whirl until dough comes together. Press evenly over the bottom of a buttered 9- by 13-inch baking pan. Bake in a 325F regular or convection oven until top feels dry and is just beginning to brown, about 25 minutes. Let cool completely.

2. Meanwhile, unwrap caramels and place in a microwave-safe bowl with milk. Cook in a microwave oven on full power (100%) for 1 minute. Stir mixture, then cook and stir at 30-second intervals until melted and smooth, about 3 minutes longer. Spread caramel mixture evenly over cooled crust and chill until firm, about 20 minutes.

3. In a large bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water (bottom of bowl should not touch water), stir chocolate and remaining 1/2 cup butter often until melted and smooth. Remove bowl from over water and, with a whisk or a mixer on medium speed, beat in remaining 3/4 cup sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well blended. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended.

4. Pour chocolate mixture over caramel layer and use a knife or spatula to spread level, completely covering caramel.

5. Bake in a 350F regular or convection oven until a wooden skewer inserted into the chocolate layer comes out clean, 35 to 40 minutes. Let cool completely, then cut into 24 bars.

Yield:  Makes 24 bars.


BIG BEND TEXAS-STYLE CHILI

~Shared by Jim D., WA
   
Active Time:  15 Minutes
Total Time:  1 Hour 15 Minutes
 
The saying goes that there are as many chili recipes in Texas as there are Texans; why, even LBJ, the late president, had his own favorite recipe. There are many schools of thought when it comes to the subject of chili. Some purists favor chopped beef, others ground beef, as here; some swear by kidney beans, others dismiss them as an adulteration! Whatever their preferences, chili fans should know that every fall in Terlingua, a hamlet nestled in the mountainous Big Bend area of southwestern Texas, a national chili cookoff is held that arouses considerable passions. Grizzled old hands and aspiring cooks alike converge on the area from all quarters and enjoy one another's company as well as the world-class chili.

INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 onions, diced
1 1/2 pounds lean high-quality ground beef
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons pure red chili powder
4 Roma tomatoes (about 8 ounces), blanched, peeled, and diced
1/2 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup beef stock
1 cup dark beer
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons minced oregano
1/4 cup minced parsley
1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained
4 ounces crumbled goat cheese, for garnish
 
DIRECTIONS
FOR THE CHILI:
Heat the olive oil in a arge saucepan. Add the garlic and onions, and saute over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add the beef and saute for 7 to 8 minutes longer, while stirring frequently, or until the beef is well browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper, stir in the chili powder, and cook for 2 minutes more. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, beef stock, beer, vinegar, cumin, oregano, and parsley, and stir well to combine.
 
Bring to a simmer, turn down the heat to low, and cook, covered, for 45 minutes. Add the beans and cook for 15 minutes longer, stirring occasionally. Ladle into serving bowls and sprinkle with the goat cheese.
 
WINE RECOMMENDATION:
Since this dish contains dark beer, consider using the same beer as a beverage. A lighter style of red wine such as a Beaujolais or Italian Bardolino will also work well with this flavors.
 
HELPFUL TIPS:
Most chili dishes actually taste better the next day, after the flavors have had time to marinate and marry. You can use black beans instead of kidney beans if you prefer, or a mixture of the two.

Nutrition Information
Serves 6 - Facts Per Serving:
Calories: 473 Fat. Total: 23g Carbohydrates, Total: 29g
Cholesterol: 61mg Sodium: 401mg Protein: 37g
Fiber: 9g % Cal. from Fat: 44% Fat, Saturated: 0g

Source: Beef for All Seasons


GERMAN CHOCOLATE POUND CAKE

~Shared by Linda H., Rosharon, TX

1 German cake mix (without pudding)
1 can 15oz coconut pecan frosting
1 cup water
1/3 cup oil
3 eggs

MIx all ingredients together, including frosting. Grease bundt pan and bake at 350 for 45 t0 50 minutes. This cake is very moist, and so delicious.

Source: alicias_kitchen@yahoogroups.com


SIMPLE AND BRILLIANTLY TASTY STEAK

~Shared by Jim H., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Sometimes simple is the best! This is how dh loves his steak! ~by mama's kitchen

20 min ; 5 min prep

1 lb steak, trimmed of fat to within 1/4 inch (any cut you like just make sure it is a tender cut and good for grilling like sirloin, rib eye, etc.)
1/2 tablespoon butter or Butter Buds
1 tablespoon olive oil
sea salt, course grind, to taste
black peppercorns, course and freshly ground

Trim any large fat around steak so that it is within 1/4 inch- prevents meat curling up on grill. Rub both sides of steak with butter or butter buds then repeat with olive oil. This will allow you the flavor of the butter without it burning as the olive oil raises the burn point. Season with salt and pepper. Allow steak to come to room temperature letting it rest on counter for about 45 minutes or so. Meanwhile, preheat gas or charcoal grill to highest setting- nice layer of white ash for charcoal. Place steak on grill and let it sear for one minute. Lift with tongs- never a fork as this will pierce the meat and allow juices to escape. Turn steak and allow to sear on other side for one minute. If you want crosshatch grill marks, turn 45 degrees and lay steak down on grill to sear crosshatch lines into the meat. Allow steak to cook for about 6 minutes total for medium rare, about 8-10 for medium and longer for well done. Remove steak from grill and let rest on platter or cutting board for at least 5 minutes before cutting. Resist temptation! Do not even pick any crispy edges off. The meat will relax and all the juices will redistribute making this the juiciest steak you may have ever had. Now you can add any other seasonings you like. DH likes it just as it is. Enjoy!

Source: Recipezaar


SEAFOOD RAGU WITH CAVATAPPI

~Shared by Jean, Syracuse, NY
Please visit my web site: Cookin' With JP

You can use mussels or scallops in place of the clams or shrimp.

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 1/2 cups finely chopped red onion
2 teaspoons minced garlic cloves
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 cup dry red wine
1 1/2 cups canned crushed plum tomatoes
3 tablespoons minced fresh flat-leaf parsley, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
24 littleneck clams
16 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1/2 pound)
1 pound skinless halibut fillets, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 cup water
4 cups hot cooked cavatappi (about 10 ounces uncooked pasta)

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and pepper; cover and cook 10 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.

Add wine; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes or until liquid almost evaporates. Stir in tomatoes, 2 tablespoons parsley, and salt; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes.

Add clams. Cover and cook 2 minutes. Stir in shrimp and fish. Increase heat to medium-high; cook 2 minutes. Add water. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until clams open. Discard any unopened shells. Add 1 tablespoon oil and pasta; toss to coat. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon parsley.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 1 1/2 cups)

CALORIES 361 (22% from fat); FAT 8.7g (satfat 1.2g, monofat 4.2g, polyfat 1.9g); PROTEIN 37.8g; CARBOHYDRATE 31.3g; FIBER 3g; CHOLESTEROL 154mg; IRON 9.2mg; SODIUM 390mg; CALCIUM 113mg


SCRAMBLED EGGS IN SOUR CREAM

~Shared by Larry J., Spring Hill, TN

INGREDIENTS:

4 Tablespoons butter
8 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

TO PREPARE:

Melt butter in top of double boiler over hot, not boiling, water.  In bowl, lightly beat eggs, sour cream, salt, and pepper with a rotary beater.  When combined, pour mixture into top of double boiler with butter.  Stir occasionally, scraping the bottom as mixture begins to set.  Serve as soon as cooking is completed.

SERVES:  6

Source: "Atlanta Cooknotes" by The Junior League of Atlanta


CHEDDAR POTATOES
 
~Shared by Pat, Minden, NV
Pat's husband is Phil Maine, author of Gourmet Made Easy and Homemade Truffles and BonBons.
 
See Phil's books in the Reader-owned Business section of this issue.
 
1 (10 ounce) can cheddar cheese soup
1/3 cup sour cream
2 fresh green onions, chopped
3 cups instant seasoned mashed potatoes, prepared
 
In saucepan, heat soup and add sour cream, onion and a little pepper.  Stir in potatoes until they blend well.  Pour into buttered 2-quart casserole.  Cook at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.


CRANBERRY SALAD

~Shared by Dorie, IL
A2Z Recipes Yahoo Forum Moderator
 
2 (3 ounce) packages cherry flavored gelatin mix
1 (16 ounce) can whole cranberry sauce
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
1 cup chopped pecans
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
 
Drain crushed pineapple and save 1/4 cup of the juice. Dissolve gelatin in 2 cups of hot water. Stir in cranberries and crushed pineapple. Pour 1/2 of the mixture in a bowl and leave at room temperature, set the other 1/2 in the refrigerator until firm.

In a separate bowl mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, reserved pineapple juice and chopped pecans. Spread mixture over chilled gelatin. Place in refrigerator for 10 minutes. Pour the room temperature gelatin over the top of the cream cheese layer and refrigerate until set.


PEACH-PUMPKIN UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE

~Shared by Johnny, LA

A cast iron Dutch oven is perfect for this recipe!

1 can (1Lb, 13 oz) peach halves in heavy syrup

1 2/3 cups of all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 cup salad oil
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup canned or fresh puree pumpkin
1/3 cup pecan halves

1/4 cup peach preserves

Preheat oven to 350*. grease and flour a 10 inch spring form or layer cake pan. If using a Dutch oven just grease and flour it. I don't use an additional pan and I don't preheat.

Drain peach halves , reserving 1/4 cup of the syrup. Set peaches aside to drain well. On waxed paper, sift flour with baking soda, baking powder, salt and spices.

In large bowl of electric mixer, beat oil and sugar at medium speed until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time. Beat in pumpkin; then, at low speed , beat in flour mixture a little at a time until combined.

Pour cake batter into prepared pan. Arrange peach halves cut side down onto batter and pecans on top. Bake 40-45 minutes or until surface of cake springs back when gently pressed with fingers . Comes clean with toothpicks.

Combine reserved syrup and preserves in a small sauce pan and bring to a boil, stirring until preserves melt. Remove cake from pan and place on serving plate. Brush with glaze. Serve warm or cool.

Makes 8 serving.

I've used a 10" dutch oven , 20 coals 6 on the bottom and 14 on the top for 350* (you need more of the coals on top for baking.) Rotate dutch oven & lid every 15 minutes.

Source: The Best of McCalls, A Treasury of Favorite Recipes


OUTRAGEOUS CHOCOLATE MARQUIS WITH RASPBERRY COULIS

~Shared by Doe, Oliver, B.C., Canada

Chocolate Sponge Base- 
3 lg eggs, room temp 
1/2 c sugar  
1/3 c flour 
2 tbsp cocoa
2 tbsp Kahlua

Top layer-
12oz-340g s.s. good quality chocolate (Belgian, Swiss, Dutch)  
1 c butter  
1/3 c cocoa  
3/4 c coffee, warm
4 lg egg whites  
1/2 c berry sugar  

Raspberry Coulis-
300g-10oz frozen raspberries, thawed, save some for garnish
1/4 c sugar  
2 tsp lemon juice

Beat eggs, add sugar & beat until well blended. Preheat 350. Sift flour & cocoa tog & fold into egg mix. Spread in lightly greased 9”springform pan. Bake 15 mins until pick tests clean. Cool. Brush Kahlua on cooled sponge cake. In d.b., melt tog chocolate & butter. Mix coca in coffee to dissolve. Blend in choc butter mix. Beat egg whites until stiff. Add sugar gradually at low speed. Gently fold whites into choc mix. Pour over sponge cake base & chill overnight. To make Raspberry Coulis, place raspberries in saucepan. Add sugar & lemon juice, & cook gently until sugar is dissolved. Strain thru sieve & cool. Makes 2c. To serve- decorate each plate with dots of Raspberry Coulis, whole raspberries and candied orange slices.


CREOLE FLOUNDER WITH SEAFOOD SAUCE

~Shared by Treva, NC

1 cup diced onion
1 cup chopped green pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
1/2 cup butter, cubed
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups half-and-half cream
8 ounces Mexican process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
2 cans (6 ounces each) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed
1/4 cup Creole mustard or other spicy mustard
2 pounds flounder fillets
1-1/2 teaspoons Creole seasoning
2 pounds cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

In a large skillet, sauté the onion, green pepper, garlic and parsley in butter until tender. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually add the cream. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat; Stir in cheese and lemon juice; cook and stir until cheese is melted. Add crab. Cover and keep warm. Spread mustard on both sides of fillets. Sprinkle with Creole seasoning. Place on a greased broiler pan. Broil 4-6 in. from the heat for 3-5 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Top each fillet with four to five shrimp; serve over crab sauce.

Yield: 4-5 servings


CRAB CAKE BURGERS

~Shared by Jim D., WA
 
Makes 6 servings

Ingredients
 
1 pound crabmeat
1 egg, lightly beaten
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (see Note)
¼ cup light mayonnaise
2 tablespoons minced chives
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
4 dashes hot sauce, such as Tabasco, or to taste
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons unsalted butter

Instructions
 
1. Mix crab, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, chives, mustard, lemon juice, celery seed, onion powder, pepper and hot sauce in a large bowl. Form into 6 patties.

2. Heat oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until the butter stops foaming. Cook the patties until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side.

Tips
Note: Panko breadcrumbs, also known as Japanese breadcrumbs or bread flakes, are coarser in texture than other dried breadcrumbs. They produce a crispy crust and are less likely to become soggy than finely ground breadcrumbs. Look for panko in the Asian food section of large supermarkets and in specialty Asian markets.

Nutrition Information
Per serving: 163 calories; 8 g fat (2 g sat, 3 g mono); 86 mg cholesterol; 6 g carbohydrate; 16 g protein; 0 g fiber; 350 mg sodium; 293 mg potassium.
Nutrition bonus: Selenium (44% daily value), Zinc (20% dv), Vitamin C (15% dv).
1/2 Carbohydrate Serving
Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 2 very lean meat, 1 fat (mono)


CHOCOLATE-PEANUT BUTTER REFRIGERATOR CAKE

~Shared by Linda H., Rosharon, TX

21/2 cups heavy (whipping) cream
1 bag (10 oz) peanut butter chips
18 whole chocolate graham crackers

Heat 2/3 cup cream in a large microwave-safe bowl until steaming. Add chips; whisk until smooth. Slowly whisk in remaining cream. Chill 15 minutes.

Beat with mixer just until soft peaks form. Arrange 3 crackers, side by side, long edges touching, on serving plate. Spread evenly with 1/2 cup cream mixture. Repeat for 4 more layers; add 1 more layer crackers. Chill 1 hour. Chill remaining cream.

Spread top and sides of cake with cream. Chill 4 hours or up to 2 days.

Decorate with peanut butter chips, if desired. Slice with a serrated knife using a sawing motion.

Source: Woman's Day May 25, 2004


OH MY... BASIL CHICKEN

~Shared by Jim H., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Ingredients
1 Tbsp. Peanut oil for stir-frying
4 Cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 Small Onion (Chopped finely) – optional
2 Cups Chicken - coarsely chopped, or cut into small bite-size pieces
2 Jalapeno peppers, cut into large slivers with seeds
2-3 Tsp. Soy sauce
2 Tbsp. fish sauce
1 Cup fresh sweet basil
Black Pepper

Method
Prepare the ingredients as instructed. Leave the fresh basil leaves whole. Heat a wok until its surface is smoking hot. Swirl in the oil to coat the wok surface. Wait a few seconds for the oil to heat, then stir in the garlic, followed a few seconds later with the onion. Stir another 15 to 20 seconds before adding the chicken. Stir-fry 1 to 2 minutes, or until most of the chicken has changed color on the outside and is no longer pink. Toss in the chillies. Sprinkle black soy sauce over the mixture and stir-fry for another 15 to 20 seconds. Season to taste with fish sauce, then stir in the fresh basil. Toss well. Stir-fry another 1/2 to 1 minute, or until the basil is wilted and the chicken cooked through. Sprinkle with pepper. Stir and transfer to a serving dish, or spoon directly over individual plates of plain steamed rice.

Tip: When making stir fry, and using meat I try to cut the meat as small as possible. In this case, the smaller the chicken is cut, the greater the surface area to coat with the flavors of the aromatic herbs and sauces, and the more flavorful the stir-fry will be.


FAVORITE ROAST

~Shared by Jean, Syracuse, NY
Please visit my web site: Cookin' With JP

5 pound boneless chuck roast
seasonings: garlic powder, salt, pepper to taste
1 package Lipton garlic/herb soup mix
1 family size can Campbell's cream of mushroom or chicken soup (not diluted)

Mix together seasonings, Lipton garlic/herb, and soup until well blended. Spray crock pot with Pam or other coating for easy cleanup. Place roast in crock pot. Spread seasoning/soup mix over roast. Cook on high until done. About 8-9 hours for falling apart roast.

Notes: Try putting the roast on early in the morning: by dinner time, it will be done. You may also layer potatoes, carrots, onions in the bottom of the crock pot before putting the roast in the crock pot. Serve with rice, creamed potatoes, or noodles.


SLOW COOKER BREAD PUDDING WITH RUM SAUCE AND CREAM TOPPING
 
~Shared by Ann, Mims, FL

1/3-cup melted margarine
16-cups day old French bread cubes (lightly packed)
1-cup golden raisins
3-eggs
1 1/2-cups granulated sugar
2-tbsp vanilla
1-tsp ground nutmeg
1-tsp cinnamon
3-cups milk

Rum Sauce
1/2-cup packed brown sugar
2-tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4-tsp salt
1-cup water
1/2-tsp vanilla
2-tbsp dark or amber rum

Cream Topping
1-cup 35% whipping cream
3-tbsp icing sugar
2-tbsp light sour cream (or regular)
1-tsp vanilla

Brush 2-tbsp of the melted margarine on the bottom and up the sides of the slow cooker. Layer bread cubes and raisins in the slow cooker. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until thickened. Add vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, milk and remaining 1/4-cup margarine; beat another 1 minute longer to combine. Pour mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down the bread to saturate. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or for 6 to 7 hours on low, until golden brown. Allow pudding to cool slightly before serving

Rum Sauce In a saucepan over medium-high heat, mix together the sugar, flour and salt. Stir in water and vanilla. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to a simmer, stirring constantly until mixture thickens. Stir in rum

Cream Topping In a bowl, combine whipping cream, icing sugar, sour cream and vanilla. Beat until soft peaks forms (don't overbeat). Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serves 6.

To Serve: Pour rum sauce into bottom of serving dish. Spoon warm bread pudding over top. Dollop with cream topping.

Source: www.lesleycooks.com


CANADIAN BACON WITH SAUCE

~Shared by Patricia, Charlevoix, MI
 
1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 teaspoon prepared mustard
1 jar (10 ounce) currant jelly
1 cup sherry
7 pounds whole Canadian Bacon
1 1/2 cups white wine
1 tablespoon butter
 
Combine brown sugar, vinegar and mustard to make a paste. Spread over bacon and refrigerate over night. Place meat in small roasting pan, add white wine and bake, covered, at 300 degs for 1 1/2 hours. Uncover and bake at 350 degs for 1/2 hour. Remove from oven, let stand, covered 1/2 hour before serving.
 
Sauce:
Combine jelly, sherry and butter in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until sauce is smooth. Serve sauce with meat.


BRUSCHETTA PIZZA

~Shared by Marilyn, Canton, OH

1/2 lb. bulk pork sausage
1 prebaked Italian bread shell crust
1 (6 oz) pkg sliced turkey pepperoni
2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups chopped plum tomatoes
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
1 Tbsp. olive oil
2 garlic cloves minced
1/2 tsp. minced fresh thyme   (or 1/8 tsp. dried thyme)
1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
additional fresh basil leaves, optional

In a small skillet cook sausage over medium heat until no longer pink; drain.  Place crust on an ungreased baking sheet; top with pepperoni, sausage and cheese.  Bake at 450 for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted.

In a small bowl combine tomtatoes, sliced basil, oil, garlic, thyme, vinegar, salt and pepper.  Spoon over the pizza.  Garnish with additional basil if desired.


Click if you have a submission for the Reader Recipe section of A to Z Newsletters. Make sure to include your name and location for posting. Thanks!

 


Heart Healthy



PASTA WITH ASPARAGUS

~Shared by Luanne, FL

Has WW points and is mighty tasty.
 
Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 inch piece
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
8 ounces garlic-basil flavored angel hair pasta
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 dash cayenne pepper

Instructions:

Cook pasta according to package instructions.

Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet. Sauté asparagus in the pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes. Add chicken broth and mushroom slices; cook 3 minutes more.

Drain pasta, and transfer to a serving dish. Gently toss pasta with asparagus mixture, adding cheese and red pepper flakes.

Yield: 4 Servings
7 POINTS per serving 


ENSALADA XEK
(Jicama and Mandarin Orange Salad)

~Shared by Jim D., WA

1 1/2 lbs jicama, peeled and cut into julienne strips
1 lime
1/4 cup sour orange juice
1 small cucumber, peeled, seeded and coarsely diced
5 mandarin oranges, peeled, sectioned and seeds removed
3 small dried chilies, finely chopped
3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
salt

Peel jicama. The skin of this root vegetable will peel right off after you insert a knife between the skin and the flesh. Remove any traces of brown or remaining skin with a vegetable peeler. To keep the vegetable from discoloring as you work, rub liberally with lime juice. Cut jicama into julienne strips.

Toss in a large bowl with the orange juice.

Peel cucumber, seed and dice.

Meanwhile, peel oranges and separate into sections, removing any seeds.

Toss oranges and cucumber with jícama. Add chile and cilantro.

Toss and check for seasonings. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts 
Serving Size 1 (383g)
Recipe makes 4 servings
Calories 144  
Calories from Fat 5  (4%) 
Amount Per Serving  %DV 
 Total Fat 0.7g  1% 
 Saturated Fat 0.1g  0% 
 Monounsaturated Fat 0.1g  
 Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g  
 Trans Fat 0.0g  
Cholesterol 0mg  0% 
Sodium 11mg  0% 
Potassium 598mg  17% 
Total Carbohydrate 35.4g  11% 
 Dietary Fiber 11.2g  44% 
 Sugars 17.2g  
Protein 2.8g  5% 
Vitamin A 1009mcg  20% 
Vitamin B6 0.2mg  10% 
Vitamin B12 0.0mcg  0% 
Vitamin C 77mg  129% 
Vitamin E 1mcg  3% 
Calcium 79mg  7% 
Iron 1mg  8%

Source: Recipezaar


SLOW COOKER HEALTHY POTATO SOUP

~Shared by Maggie, TX

Cook in the crock pot all day, add the evaporated milk, and ready to go!

Ingredients
6 large potatoes, cubed after peeling
3 large carrots, sliced
3 stalks celery, chopped
2 onions, chopped (LESS is okay)
4 chicken bouillon cubes
5-6 cups of water
1 can nonfat evaporated milk
shredded cheddar cheese (optional, not in calculation)

Directions
Combine all vegetables, bouillon, and water. in large crock pot. Cook on low for 8 - 10 hours, or high 3 -4. Add evaporated milk, stir till heated through, and serve. May serve with shredded cheddar cheese. Could add a small amount of instant potatoes if you prefer soup a little thicker.

Number of Servings: 15

Nutritional Info
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 148.4
Total Fat: 0.4 g
Cholesterol: 1.0 mg
Sodium: 251.0 mg
Total Carbs: 31.9 g
Dietary Fiber: 4.2 g
Protein: 5.2 g

Source: Quick-And-Easy-Recipes@yahoogroups.com


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Diabetic Choices



APRICOT-ORANGE CHICKEN WITH GLAZED ONIONS

~Shared by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

-  1 whole roasted deli chicken, skinned
-  3 tablespoons no-added-sugar apricot preserves, divided
-  3 tablespoons no-added-sugar orange marmalade, divided
-  2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, divided
-  Nonstick cooking spray
-  1 large onion, quartered
-  1 clove garlic, minced

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In small bowl, blend 1 tablespoon each apricot preserves, marmalade, and vinegar.

Place chicken in baking pan coated with nonstick cooking spray. Add water to pan to a depth of 1/4-1/2 inch. Brush chicken with preserve mixture. Combine the remaining preserves, marmalade, vinegar, onion, and garlic and spoon around the chicken.

Roast, covered, for 25 minutes. Uncover and roast for 10 more minutes, until onion is tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/4 of chicken): Calories: 278, Fat: 9 g, Cholesterol: 100 mg, Sodium: 110 mg, Carbohydrate: 15 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 10 g, Protein: 34 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate, 4 Lean Meat

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking by Robyn Webb


FRESH PLUM TART

~Shared by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 1 Tart (8 servings)

INGREDIENTS

-  1 refrigerated fill-and-bake pie crust (7 to 7-1/2 ounces)
-  4 ripe plums (about 1 pound total), peeled and thinly sliced
-  2 large eggs, or 1/2 cup egg substitute
-  1/3 cup sugar
-  1/4 cup fat-free sour cream
-  3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Press the prepared pie crust into a 9-inch diameter tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the crust against the fluted edge and trim off any pastry that extends over the top. Discard any extra dough and the trimmings (about 1 ounce).

Bake the crust only 5 minutes, until it is set but brown. Cool on a rack.

Arrange the plum slices in overlapping circles to cover the bottom of the tart shell.

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, fat-free sour cream, and flour until smooth. Pour the custard over the plums; it should fill the spaces between the plums.

Bake at 350 degrees F. for 18 to 20 minutes, until the custard is set and the edges are slightly browned. Cool and cut into 8 equal slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1 slice): Calories: 208, Fat: 9 g, Cholesterol: 58 mg, Sodium: 166 mg, Carbohydrate: 31 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 13 g, Protein: 3 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Fat

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People With Diabetes


PENNE WITH GREENS AND CANNELLINI BEANS

~Shared by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Low in fat and loaded with fiber, the smooth texture and slightly nutty flavor of cannellini beans (or white kidney beans) makes a great addition to healthy pasta recipes.

Yield: 6 main dish servings

INGREDIENTS

-  1 box uncooked Dreamfields Penne Rigate
-  2 tablespoons olive oil
-  1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
-  1 tablespoon minced garlic
-  1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
-  1 cup reduced-sodium, fat free chicken broth
-  1 pound fresh collard or mustard greens, washed, trimmed and cut into large bite-sized pieces
-  1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (or other white beans)
-  Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
-  Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and return to pan.

Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper, garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add broth; bring to boil.

Add greens; return to boil. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, uncovered, until greens are just crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Add greens with liquid to pasta; toss to coat. Add beans; toss gently. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serving Note: Any dark, leafy greens such as kale, spinach or chard can be substituted for the collard greens. 1-1/2 cups cooked cannellini beans can be substituted for the canned beans.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 336; Protein: 16g; Sodium: 128 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 1g; Dietary Fiber: 11 g; Digestible Carbohydrates: 22g

Source: Dreamfields Healthy Carb Pasta


TURKEY SCALOPPINE WITH MARSALA GLAZE

~Shared by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 4 Servings
Serving size: 3-1/2 ounces of turkey, 2 to 3 slices

INGREDIENTS

-  3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-  1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
-  1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
-  1 pound boneless turkey breast, thinly sliced
-  1/4 cup dry white wine
-  1/2 cup homemade chicken broth or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth
-  1/4 cup sweet marsala wine
-  1 clove garlic, minced
-  2 teaspoons brown sugar
-  1 teaspoon cornstarch
-  1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest

DIRECTIONS

Mix the flour with the seasoned salt and pepper in a pie plate or plastic bag. Dredge the turkey slices and shake off the excess.

Heat a large skillet and spray well with non-stick pan spray. Cook the cutlets in a single layer over medium-high heat about 2 minutes on each side, or until light tan in color. Remove the turkey to a warm platter.

Add the white wine, chicken broth, marsala, garlic, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir, scraping any bits form the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil and reduce the sauce to about 1/2 cup.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water. Add to the sauce, bring to a boil, and stir in the lemon zest.

Reduce the heat. Return the turkey to the skillet. Coat with sauce to glaze, and heat thoroughly, about 5 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 172, Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 82 mg, Sodium: 192 mg, Carbohydrate: 7 g, Dietary Fiber: 0 g, Sugars: 3 g, Protein: 31 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 4 Very Lean Meat

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People With Diabetes


FLOUNDER EN PAPILLOTE

~Shared by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 6 Servings

INGREDIENTS

-  6 flounder, sole, or other lean white fish fillets (1-1/2 lbs)
-  Salt and pepper, to taste
-  1 cup julienne, or shredded, carrots
-  1 cup sliced mushrooms
-  1/4 cup finely chopped shallots or onion
-  2 cloves garlic, minced
-  1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon leaves
-  2 teaspoons margarine
-  1/2 cup dry white wine or water
-  1/4 cup finely chopped parsley leaves
-  6 lemon wedges

DIRECTIONS

Cut six 12-inch squares of parchment paper. Fold in half, and cut each into a large heart shape. Open hearts and place 1 fish fillet on each; sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.

Saute carrots, mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and tarragon in margarine in large skillet until carrots are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in wine and parsley; season to taste with salt and pepper.

Spoon vegetable mixture over fish. Fold heart packets in half, bringing edges together. Crimp edges tightly to seal. Place packets on jelly roll pan, and bake at 425 degrees F. until packets puff, 10 - 12 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.

Note: Aluminum foil can be used in place of parchment paper; bake fish 15 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/6 of recipe): Calories: 149, Fat: 2.8 g, Cholesterol: 59.8 mg, Sodium: 118 mg, Protein: 22.3 g, Carbohydrate: 5.7 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 2-1/2 Meat

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes


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For Two



GREEN EGGS AND HAM

~Shared by Ann, Mims, FL

Servings: Serves 2 and can be doubled or tripled.

Ingredients:
4 eggs or 1 cup of egg substitute
1 tsp butter
2 tsps prepared pesto
Salt and pepper
Cherry tomatoes cut in half for garnish
4 slices of quarter-inch sliced ham

Instructions:
Melt your butter in a small sauté pan on medium heat. Add your eggs and stir. Add the pesto and stir again to incorporate. If you're using the egg substitute the secret to successful scrambled eggs is not to stir too much. Just let them settle in and use a wooden spoon if you have one to mix them up so they form large clumps. Season with salt and pepper when they get to the consistency you like them. Heat your ham while the eggs cook. You can do this in a warm oven or in a separate sauté pan or even the microwave. Serve under the eggs or on the side.

Serving Suggestions: Garnish on your plate with the cherry tomatoes for color. Enjoy!

Source:  Dinner with Zola


SWEET POTATO PORK STEW

~Shared by Mary S., Nashville, TN

3/4 pound pork chop suey meat
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Pure Cane Dark Brown Sugar
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 small onion, quartered
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

In a small bowl, toss pork with mustard. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine flour and brown sugar; add pork and shake to coat. In a large saucepan coated with cooking spray, cook pork and garlic in oil until pork is browned on all sides. Stir in broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in the onion, sweet potato, salt and pepper. Return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 15-20 minutes longer or until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender. Stir in parsley.

Yield: 2 servings.


PORK AND CHUTNEY SANDWICHES

~Shared by Maggie, TX

I'm forever looking for flavor combinations that are left of center... unusual. I found this gem in a Better Homes & Gardens magazine. It's wonderful for chilly weather. I'm going to try this using boneless breast halves next.

Prep: 25 minutes
Marinate: 1 hour
Cook: 4 minutes

Ingredients

12  oz. boneless pork loin
2  Tbsp. honey
2  Tbsp. ketchup
2  Tbsp. soy sauce
1  tsp. garlic powder
2  tsp. cooking oil
2  kaiser rolls, split and toasted
1/4  cup mayonnaise or tub-style cream cheese (cream cheese was my choice)
2  Tbsp. bottled peach or mango chutney (I chose peach)
2  romaine lettuce leaves
2  thin slices red onion

Directions

1. Cut pork in 4 slices; place each slice between plastic wrap and pound to 1/4-inch thickness. Place meat in resealable plastic bag. In small bowl combine honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and garlic powder; add to bag. Seal bag and turn so meat is coated. Chill in refrigerator 1 hour.

2. Remove meat slices from bag; discard marinade. Heat oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add pork; cook 3 to 5 minutes per side or until no pink remains.

3. Spread mayonnaise on split side of roll tops and chutney on split side of roll bottoms. Layer meat on chutney; top with romaine, onion, and roll tops.

Makes 2 sandwiches.

Source: Better Homes & Gardens magazine


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Publisher's Choice



MEMPHIS-STYLE PORK CHOPS

All this needs is some deli coleslaw and plenty of cold beer!

Makes: 4 servings
Prep: 15 minutes
Grill: 12 minutes

Ingredients

    * 1/2  cup bottled chili sauce
    * 2  tablespoons molasses
    * 2  tablespoons cider vinegar
    * 1  teaspoon chili powder
    * 4  boneless pork loin chops, cut 3/4 to 1 inch thick (about 1 1/4 pounds total)
    * 1  teaspoon dried basil, crushed
    * 1/2  teaspoon paprika
    * 1/4  teaspoon salt
    * 1/4  teaspoon onion powder
    * 1/4  teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, stir together chili sauce, molasses, vinegar, and chili powder. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. Trim fat from chops. In a small bowl, stir together basil, paprika, salt, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of each chop; rub in with your fingers.

3. Place chops on the rack of an uncovered grill directly over medium coals. Grill for 12 to 15 minutes or until juices run clear (160°F), turning once and brushing with chili sauce mixture during the last 5 minutes of grilling.

Makes 4 servings

Nutrition Facts
    * Servings Per Recipe 4 servings
    * Calories 260,
    * Total Fat (g) 7,
    * Saturated Fat (g) 3,
    * Cholesterol (mg) 83,
    * Sodium (mg) 623,
    * Carbohydrate (g) 16,
    * Fiber (g) 2,
    * Protein (g) 31,
    * Vitamin A (DV%) 0,
    * Vitamin C (DV%) 0,
    * Calcium (DV%) 0,
    * Iron (DV%) 0,
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Source: Better Homes & Gardens magazine


PUMPKIN HONEY MUFFINS

2 c. cooked, mashed pumpkin
2 eggs
1/2 c. oil
1 c. honey
3 c. flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 cups raisins and 1/2 cups nuts optional

Mix first four ingredients in blender. Pour into bowl. Sift together dry ingredients; add to liquid and mix. Add raisins or nuts, if desired. Spoon into paper muffin cups, or well greased cupcake pans. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes.


CHICKEN WITH STUFFING

1 bag seasoned stuffing mix, 14 to 16 ounces
3 to 4 cups cooked diced chicken
3 cans cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup milk
1 to 2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded

Prepare stuffing mix according to package directions and place in 5 quart Crock Pot. Stir in 2 cans of Cream of Chicken soup. In a mixing bowl, stir together cubed chicken, 1 can cream of chicken soup and milk. Spread over stuffing in slow cooker. Sprinkle cheese over top. Cover and cook on Low for 4 to 6 hour or on High for 2 to 3 hours.

Serves 6 to 8.


DANISH PASTRY

Yield:   4 people

Ingredients:

4   cup flour, plain
0.5   cup milk
0.5   cup water, warm
40    gm butter
25    gm yeast, fresh
0.25   cup sugar (caster)
2     x eggs
250    gm butter, unsalted
0.333   cup flour, plain

TO GLAZE:
1     x eggs
1   tbl milk

Method:

Sift flour into a large bowl.

Melt the first portion of butter in the warm water.

Dissolve the yeast in the milk and mix in sugar, beaten eggs and warm water.

Make a well in the flour, pour in milk mixture and mix until smooth first with a wooden spoon and then with the hand. When dough comes away cleanly from sides of bowl, turn onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.

Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning dough so that it is covered lightly and greased all over. Cover with a damp cloth and leave to rise in a warm place for 45-50 minutes or until doubled in bulk.

Knock down dough and roll out into a rectangle three times as long as it is wide.

Soften the second portion of butter and mix with second portion of flour.

Spread the softened butter/flour over 2/3 of the dough. Fold the dough into thirds by folding the uncovered third over the butter and over again. Cover with a cloth and refrigerate 30 minutes.

Roll out again into a rectangle 3 X 1 and fold up again into thirds. Cover with a cloth and refrigerate another 30 minutes.

Repeat the rolling/folding/chilling process twice more.

Roll out dough 0.5cm thickness, cut into long triangles and roll and shape as per danish. allow to rise, brush with beaten egg and milk, bake 380C for 20 minutes until golden.

Serve with afternoon tea.

Source: Food Down Under


DRESSED UP SPAGHETTIO'S

Kids love this stuff.

1 lb. regular spaghetti or rings, cooked and drained
2 cans cream of tomato soup
1 small box Velveeta cheese, cut in small pieces

Combine all ingredients, stirring well. Pour into large casserole dish. Bake in a 350F oven for 30 minutes.


HAMBURGER UPSIDE-DOWN CASSEROLE

1 lb ground beef
¼ c chopped onion
1 t salt
¼ t chili powder
½ c catsup
1 can whole kernel corn, drained
1 pkg corn muffin mix

Combine ground beef, onion, salt, chili powder and catsup in a skillet.

Saute' until browned. Push meat to edge of skillet and spread drained corn in center. Mix muffin batter as directed on package and pour evenly over meat and corn. Bake at 425° for 20-25 minutes or until muffin layer is done.

Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes. Turn onto a plate.


CROCK POT CLASSIC SWISS FONDUE

Ingredients:
1 clove garlic
2 1/2 cups dry white Rhine, Chablis or Riesling wine
1 TBS lemon juice
1 lb. Swiss cheese, grated
1/2 lb. Cheddar cheese, grated
3 TBS flour
3 TBS kirsch
Freshly ground nutmeg
Pepper
 Paprika
1 loaf Italian or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

Directions:
1. Rub an enameled or stainless steel pan with garlic clove. Heat wine to a slow simmer (just under boiling). Add lemon juice.

2. Combine cheeses and flour and gradually stir in. Using a figure-8 motion, stir constantly until cheese is melted.

3. Pour into lightly greased Crock-Pot. Add kirsch; stir well. Sprinkle with nutmeg, pepper and paprika.

4. Cover and cook on High setting for 30 minutes, then turn to Low setting for 2 to 5 hours. Keep on Low setting while serving.

5. Using fondue forks, dip bread cubes into fondue.


BUTTER TOFFEE PRETZELS

10 cups regular shaped salted pretzels
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons butter flavor

Put pretzels into a large baking pan that has been sprayed with a non- stick spray; set aside.

In a saucepan over low heat place corn syrup, sugars, salt and butter; mix well. When mixture is melted and starts to bubble lightly, place lid on pan for 30 seconds. After 30 seconds remove lid and stir with a clean spoon. This will help prevent any sugar or salt crystals from getting back into the syrup mixture. Turn temperature down and let boil gently for five minutes. Stir frequently while cooking. When mixture has cooked for 5 minutes, remove from heat; add baking soda and stir. Make sure all baking soda has been mixed through, the sugar will foam and this normal. Add butter flavoring and stir well. Pour hot toffee mixture over pretzels. Stir, making sure all pretzels are coated.

Place pretzels in a preheated oven at 225 degrees F. Every 15 minutes stir pretzels to coat with toffee mixture. Bake these for 60 minutes. When finished baking, remove from oven and pour onto a non-stick surface. Plastic wrap works well and there is little mess to clean up.


HOISIN PORK AND NOODLES

A quick-to-fix dish with a great taste! Lots of color and crunch.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

12 ounces medium egg noodles
1 1/4 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed of fat
2 tsp Chinese sesame oil
4 minced cloves garlic
2 tsp minced fresh ginger (peeled)
1 red bell pepper, cut into short, thin strips
1 1/2 cups snow peas
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 cup hoisin sauce
1 tbsp light soy sauce
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onion
1/4 cup chopped peanuts

1. Prepare noodles according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, cut pork crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices; cut slices in half.
3. Heat oil in a large deep nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
4. Add pork, garlic and ginger; stir-fry 3 minutes or until pork is no longer pink.
5. Transfer mixture to a bowl; set aside.
6. Add bell pepper and snow peas to skillet; stir fry 1 minute.
7. Combine broth and cornstarch; mix well.
8. Add broth mixture, hoisin sauce and soy sauce to skillet; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
9. Add pork mixture; stir-fry 1 minute or until pork is cooked through.
10. Drain noodles; transfer to 6 serving plates.
11. Spoon pork mixture over noodles; sprinkle with green onions.
12. Garnish with peanuts or cashews, if desired.

SUBSTITUTION TIP: Use sugar snap peas if snow pea pods are not available.

Based on individual serving.
Calories: 416
Total Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 49 g
Protein: 29 g


FROZEN PISTACHIO DESSERT

45 Ritz crackers
3/4 cup melted butter
2 small boxes instant pistachio pudding mix
1 quart vanilla ice cream
1 1/3 cup milk
8 ounces Cool Whip
Chocolate chips

Crush crackers and pour melted butter over crackers in a 9 x 13-inch pan. Bake 10 minutes at 350 degrees and let cool.

Mix pudding, milk and ice cream in large bowl and pour into crust. Freeze. Spread cool whip over top and sprinkle with chocolate chips. Keep frozen.


 


A to Z Readers' Family-Owned Business Guide


GOURMET MADE EASY

Gourmet Made Easy

First Edition Now on CD
CD Price: $8.95 Free shipping
PayPal preferred. Check ok. 
philmn@charter.net

HOMEMADE TRUFFLES AND BONBONS



Phil has also written a book entitled Homemade Truffles and BonBons. It includes many recipes as well as sources for supplies.

Books Can Be Purchased at:
http://stores.lulu.com:80/store.php?fAcctID=1489338

PHIL'S CREATIVE CHOCOLATES

Did you know that some of the finest hand-dipped chocolates in the world come from one of our very own a2z family members? Phil's Creative Chocolates is owned by Phil Maine, the dear hubby of Pat in Minden, Nevada. It is always nice to do business with someone you know and can trust. Phil sends a special message to the a2z family:

The chocolates I make are chocolate center truffles and butter cream centers of various flavors, such as raspberry, lemon, lime, orange, strawberry, etc. I use various liqueurs, such as Kahlua, Kahlua-Hazelnut, Chambord, Baileys, cognac, rum, etc in some of them. Of course, no alcohol if requested. Dark, milk and white chocolates are used in the assortment. I can do dark chocolates for all of the 12 pieces or any combination. Please also indicate alcohol or not. And, if there are any special flavors you especially like.

The price is $12 per dozen plus s/h (approximately $3.00; warm weather delivery pack is extra).
(I accept personal checks and PayPal.)

Contact:
Phil Maine (philmn@charter.net)

Using the email link above will tell Phil that you read about his chocolates in a2z. Of course, you may cut and paste the email addy into your "send" box without using the link.




Bee Happy and Healthy with Raw Ohio Honey!

Visit Ohio Honey.com

Owned by a2z'er Lucy Wellhausen



Dilly Core

If you like Dill Pickles, then you would love the "Dilly Core", the Dill Pickle Corer to make Stuffed Dill Pickles. Uncle Bill, another a2z family member designed the corer specifically for Dill Pickles so it is much smaller than an apple corer that often destroys a pickle. Uncle Bill will also include his flavorful famous Dill Pickle Stuffing recipe in every order. The "Dilly Core" is made from Stainless Steel, so it is dishwasher safe and will not rust or tarnish. It may also be used to core fresh cucumbers so that stuffing can be added. In addition, the "Dilly Core" can be used to core roasts so that the cored out section can be stuffed with your favorite herbs or spices. Contact him using this special link: Dilly Core. I love my Dilly Core and know you will find dozens of uses for it in your kitchen, too.

Uncle Bill's Dilly Core



 


Information & Credits


The A to Z Recipes Newsletter is published by Maggie Blackwell, Editor & Contributing Author, every Wednesday and Sunday.

The information contained in issues and the website of A to Z Recipes is for use at your own discretion. Confer with health professionals for any special needs. Feel free to forward this publication to family and friends.


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