Good eats from people I know

Brazilian Lemonade

2011-10-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

We didn't try this in Brazil, but when I tried it at the neighbor's cooking class it was obviously Brazilian. In Brazil, they call limes lemons, and use sweetened condensed milk in so many things. True Brazilian sweetened condensed milk is slightly different, not quite as sweet and thick as ours. This can not be made very far in advance as it spoils quickly, thus you wouldn't want to use it for a party, but your family will ask for it frequently, once they have tried it.

1 cup sugar
6 cups cold water
4 juicy limes (smooth, thin skinned limes are juiciest and least bitter)
5-7 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
Crushed ice

Mix cold water and sugar until sugar dissolved. let chill until ready to use. (this part can be made in advance).
Wash limes really well with soap. You will need to get the wax and pesticides off they skins as you using the whole lime. Cut the ends off, then cut into eighths.. Place half the limes in the blender and half the sugar water. Pulse 5 times (or more if necessary) to release the flavors. Place a strainer over the pitcher you are serving out of and pour mixture through the strainer. With a spoon press out the rest of liquid. Repeat with remaining limes and sugar water. Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk and serve over lots of ice. Serving cold is important.

Pina Colada Salad

2011-10-02T17:13:00.000-07:00

Once a month, our neighbor offers a cooking class. Not only is she an excellent cook, but the evening is quit entertaining. It's always fun to go, not to mention tasty. Sometimes she has a recipe that just has to be shared and this is one of them. The combination may seem strange, try it you will be surprised, and it looks so pretty.

1 cup cashews (salted or raw, try it bot ways)
2 cups dried cranberries (I have used cherry flavored craisins, just make them fresh)
1 cup diced celery
2 cups diced FRESH pineapple (canned may be used but it won't be quite as good)

Pina Colada Dressing:
1/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup pina colada drink mix (usually found in the liqueur aisle)
1 1/2 cup sour cream (or be healthy and use plain yogurt)

Mix the cashews, cranberries, celery and pineapple together. Whisk the sugar, pina colada drink mix and sour cream together and pour over the salad. Mix well. Serve immediately or store in refrigerator until ready to serve.

If serving immediately you could also try chopped apples in it.

Gorgonzola Pear Cheeseball / Dip

2010-12-25T13:34:00.001-08:00

I was asked to make a cheeseball for an activity. I have many recipes that I like but I wanted something different. I had been to a cooking class where they had a Gorgonzola Pear Salad that we fell in love with. I had recently made it and had some left over ingredients so I go on line and found a recipe, made a few minor changes and this is now our new favorite cheeseball / dip.

1 firm pear, peeled, seeded and cubed
splash of olive oil
8 oz pkg cream cheese, softened
3/4 c Gorgonzola cheese crumbles (you may also use blue cheese)
1 Tbsp grated onion
1/2 c craisins or dried cherries, chopped
toasted pecans or hazelnuts, chopped (optional)

Heat oven to 400 put pears in shallow baking dish. drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 10 - 15 minutes. Drain off juices and mash.
Cream together cream cheese and Gorgonzola cheese. Add pears, onion and craisins. Mix until well blended.
Top with nuts.

You can make it without roasting the pear and omit the nuts if necessary.

High Protein Wheat Bread

2010-11-02T19:01:00.000-07:00

I don't know if I ever mentioned that my mother worked as a cook in the hot lunch at one of the local elementary schools. They would get some fun recipes and she would break them down so the average family could use them. This is one of them. Some of the ingredients are unusual bread ingredients but that's what makes it moist and tasty.

5 c white flour
2 c whole wheat flour
1 1/2 tsp salt
3 tsp yeast
1 c water (add up to 1/4 c more for moister bread)
1/2 c. honey
1/8 c butter
1 c cottage cheese
1/2 c oats
1 egg
1 c nuts or sunflower seeds (or part raisins or craisins or ?)

Mix flour, salt and yeast. set aside. Heat water, honey, cottage cheese and butter till war. Add to dry mixture. Add eggs, mix. Add oats and nuts. Knead 8-10 minutes. Let raise until double, put in greased bread pan. let rise. Bake at 375 for 35-40 minutes.

Firewater or Primary Punch

2010-10-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

This was served at many, many socials. It's name was determined by which social you usually had it at. Primary, Relief Society or YW Punch and when we added pop or club soda we called it Firewater. We loved it.

12 oz orange juice concentrate
12 oz lemonade concentrate
1 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp almond extract
9 c water
1 12 oz can up to a liter of lemon-lime pop, or club soda (optional)

Hot Spice Punch

2010-10-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

Some foods, or in this case drinks, are filled with memories. Christmas wouldn't be the same with out a big pot of Hot Spice Punch. Another favorite memory is o several winters going to the mountains to play in the snow. I'd mix up a crock pot full of this and keep it on low for all to enjoy when they would come in from the cold. This is similar to Wassail, so it is easy to be creative and make changes.

1 6 oz can of orange juice, mixed up
1 c lemon juice
2 quarts apple juice or cider
2 c. sugar
1 quart water

In a tea or cheesecloth bag:
2 Cinnamon sticks
8 whole allspice
10 whole cloves
a tsp chunk of ginger

Let the spice bag steep at least 5 minutes in the juices. Longer for spicier.

Variations I have tried:
Using pineapple or a other juice
Leaving out the ginger
Using a 6 oz can of lemonade
More or less of any of the juices.

Be Creative

Apple Cider Stew

2010-10-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

Two words describe this best, Sweet and Savory, and of course delicious. I found this on a recipe website I like to browse. I had some apples I needed to use up so I decided to give it a try. We enjoyed it. The reviews said it was better the 2nd day but we ate it all so I can't vouch for that.
I will post the recipe as I found it and then the second one with what I did because I didn't have all the ingredients.

1 # beef stew meat, cut into bite size pieces
2 tsp flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp dried thyme (optional)
2 tsp vegetable oil
2 1/2 C apple cider
4 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, chopped
2 sm Fuji apples, peeled, cored and chopped
1 C chopped onion
1 stalk celery, chopped (optional)
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp thyme

Combine the beef stew meat with flour, 1/2 tsp salt, pepper, and 1/8 tsp thyme. Toss to coat evenly.

Heat oil in a large pot, cook meat in oil until nicely browned about 5-7 minutes. Pour apple cider over meat, reduce heat down to medium low and simmer until tender, about 1 hour.

Add carrots, potatoes, apples, onion, celery, 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp thyme. Continue cooking at a simmer until vegetable are tender, about 1/2 hour.

what I did
1/2 # hamburger (You can use more, that's just all I had)
1/2 large onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
2 potatoes, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 apples, chopped (used what I had, I think they were Galas)
2 C apple juice (or cider)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp beef bullion
1/2 C frozen peas (optional)
1 pkg brown/beef gravy mix
1/2 C cold water

Brown the hamburger. Add other ingredients, except gravy mix and water, and simmer until tender.

Add frozen peas.

Mix gravy with water. Add to stew, and cook until thickened.

ENJOY

Peach Cheesecake Pie

2010-09-18T17:33:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe in a magazine. The title alone attracted me. I tried it, we loved it, and each year when the fresh peaches are in season I make it at least once.

2 9" pie crusts
4-5 peaches, peeled and sliced
2/3 c. sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
3 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 c. orange juice
1 8 oz pkg cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 egg
1 tbsp sugar

To sliced peaches add 2/3 c. sugar and cinnamon. Stir cornstarch into orange juice, stir into peaches. Bring to a boil, for 1 minute. Reduce heat to low; simmer until thickened, 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat. Cool at least 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350. Place foil lined baking sheet on middle rack in oven. Place one pie crust in 9" pie pan, trim and flute edges.
Beat cream cheese and 1/2 c. sugar until fluffy. Beat in 1 egg and vanilla. Spread in crust. Bake on hot sheet until just set, 20 minutes.
Top with peach mixture.
Cut remaining pie crust into 1/2" wide strips. Arrange in lattice pattern over peach layer, trimming as necessary. Press ends to fluted edge. Beat one egg; brush over down. Sprinkle with 1 Tbsp sugar.
Bake on hot baking sheet, 45 minutes or until golden. Cool on rack 3 hours.

Brazilian Beans and Rice

2010-09-01T19:49:00.000-07:00

Several years ago we had a wonderful Brazilian exchange student. From her we learned that just like every family in the USA has their recipe for potato salad, every Brazilian family has their version of Brazilian Beans and Rice. This is a basic meal for the average family, similar to Feijoada, which is a more involved bean dish. This is USA version of Vanessa's recipe

Beans:
several slices of bacon, chopped (you can also use sausage, dried beef or pork)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 small onion, chopped
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1 can black beans with juice
1 cube or tsp beef bullion
1 small tomato peeled and chopped
brown the bacon, add garlic, onion, and green pepper and saute until tender, add beans and bullion, simmer for several minutes. Add tomato and heat through. Serve over rice.

Rice:
1/2 small onion, miniced
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1 tbsp oil or butter
1 c rice
2 c water
saute onion and garlic in oil, until tender. Add rice and lightly brown. Add water, cover, turn heat to low and cook about 20 minutes or until done.

Coconut Syrup

2010-09-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

We had the opportunity to spend a night at a dear friends cabin. For breakfast we had a super delicious breakfast of bacon, hash browns, and french toast served with fresh fruit, whipped cream and this coconut syrup. Did I mention it was delicious? Thanks VL.

1 cube butter
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. milk or 1/2 & 1/2 or straight cream (she used cream, of course)

Bring to a boil for one minute then add:

1/2 tsp coconut extract
1/2 tsp soda

Stir and remove from heat. Enjoy!

Use a deep pan because it will boil up when the soda is added.

Rosie's Popcorn

2010-04-17T18:19:00.001-07:00

When the Beazer/Hendrix/Walker family got together Rosie made this delicious caramel/candied Popcorn. I really must share the recipe.

1 & 1/4 cup corn syrup
3 cups brown sugar
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 stick butter
Mix syrup and sugar and bring to a boil. Add sweetened condensed milk and return to boil. Add butter and stir until softball candy stage. Make sure to stir constantly, to prevent burning.
Coat and mix the caramel over all the popcorn.

this will cover 3 batches of air popped popcorn.

Spinach Dip

2010-02-04T19:52:00.000-08:00

I love to make spinach dip, besides it also tastes yummy. I could eat whole batch by myself. I frequently get asked for my recipe, the problem is I don't follow a recipe. I just dump and pour and do what feels right, proportions are really a matter of guessing. I will try my best though to create it on paper, but there will be lots just do what you want in it.

8 oz cream cheese, softened (I have made it with out and with low fat and non fat, it changed the make-up slightly and it just depends on who is coming over and what I have in the fridge)
1 c. (or several large spoonfuls) sour cream (regular or non fat, doesn't matter)
1 c. (or several large spoonfuls) mayonnaise (regular or non fat, doesn't matter, just don't use miracle whip or salad dressing)
1 pkg frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed out (I also use fresh and chop, don't worry about cooking, use as much as feels good
1 can water chestnuts, minced
1 + tbsp ranch dressing mix (use the whole pkg if you want a stronger flavor)
1 + tbsp chopped pimento, (optional, mostly for color, you could regular red pepper and get the same effect)

Whip the cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise till creamy, add everything else.
Open a box of crackers and enjoy.

Cheese and Green Chili Dip

2010-02-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago we went playing in the snow with Syd's family. One of his nephews (John) brought this dip. It was a delicious change from the usual ones we make. Can hardly wait to have some folks over to play games so we'll have an excuse to make it.

1 pkg (8oz.) cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 c Cheddar cheese , shredded
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 tbsp onion, minced
1 can (4oz.) diced green chilies
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp instant chicken bouillon granules

In a small bowl beat cream cheese and cheddar cheese until well blended. Stir in rest of ingredients. Chill before serving.
Serve with crackers or Frito's.

Honey Lime Enchiladas

2010-01-28T21:20:00.000-08:00

Stayed at a friends cabin and this recipe was on the counter. Decided to try it and I was glad. They are as yummy as it said they would be.

1 1/2 # pork or chicken, shredded.
Sauce:
1/4 c. lime juice
1/3 c. honey
1 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic or 1 glove crushed

2 10oz cans green enchilada sauce
1+ cups each of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, shredded
1-2 doz flour tortillas

Mix together sauce then add to meat. Let soak into meat about 20 min.
Lightly spray baking dish (9x13) may need to use a second pan depending on how full you stuff. Pour enough enchilada sauce in bottom to coat entirely.
Fill tortilla shells with shredded meat and desired amount of cheese. Roll in place in dish.
Pour remainder of sauce over and sprinkle generously with more cheese.
Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Then turn on broiler, place near top until cheese is crispy & lightly browned.
Enjoy.

Freezes well, cover with plastic wrap then foil. Before baking be sure to remove plastic wrap and foil.

Creamy Turkey/Chicken Wild Rice Soup

2009-12-13T15:28:00.000-08:00

Syd's sister found this in a newspaper and tried it on us. It was a definite keeper. Everyone had seconds.

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 c. sliced mushrooms
3/4 c. celery, chopped
3/4 c. carrots, chopped or sliced
1/4 c. onions, chopped
1/4 c. flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground pepper
4 c. chicken broth
1 c. quick cooking or instant wild rice
3 c shredded or chopped cooked chicken or turkey
1/2 c. sour cream
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (2 tsp dried)

Sauté mushrooms, celery, carrots and onions in oil until soft. Add flour, salt and pepper and cook. Add broth and bring to a boil scrapping up any browned bits. Add rice and reduce to heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until rice is tender, 5-7 minutes. Stir in chicken or turkey, sour cream and parsley. Cook until heated through.

Mexican Pinwheels

2009-12-13T15:16:00.000-08:00

This is a nice party dish than can be made ahead. Experiment with it. You might discover something more creative or tasty to add to it.

12 oz. cream cheese, softened
4 oz can diced green chilies
4 1/2 oz can chopped black olives
3 or 4 green onions chopped extra fine
5 tbsp walnuts, chopped (optional, especially is someone is allergic)
garlic powder to taste
Mix well together. Spread on flour tortillas. Roll up jelly roll fashion. Put in pan with Saran wrap, then foil. Chill overnight. slice into 1" slices, garnish with sliced rip olives and Parsley.

Hot Raspberry Apple Cider

2009-12-08T20:25:00.000-08:00

One night at a ward party we needed a warm and unique hot drink. We'd done just plain cider before so we needed to be creative. We found this drink on the Internet, made a few minor changes and everyone loved it. so may you.

8 cups apple cider or juice
1 cup raspberry concentrate, thawed
1/4-1/2 cup sugar
1 cinnamon stick
Frozen raspberries
mix all but the raspberries, heat to a simmer and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat, ladle in cups and top with a few frozen Raspberries. Enjoy.

Cheese Fudge (aka School Fudge)

2009-11-23T20:36:00.000-08:00

This is a blast from the past, if you are from here and about my age, which of course I will not share, you will remember eating it.. Think back to those good old days of School Lunch, when the cooks made real food, macaroni and cheese with big lumps of gooey cheese, chili and Donuts, and fudge. Yes, this is that recipe. I must admit that I don't make Christmas Candy. I've made a few feeble attempts, but that is one thing that intimidates me, even the thought of doing it sends fear down my spine. Luckily my mother was a school cook in her later working years and she passed along this secret recipe. It is one of the few actually successful goodies I have made, especially since there is no cooking required. The schools had to work with what was given them, and so the ingredients are perhaps not what you would normally think of in fudge. Be brave and try it.

1/2 # grated or crumbles processed cheese such as Velveeta (grate or crumble while cold then let it come to room temperature)
1 c. peanut butter
1/2 c. butter or margarine
3/4 c. Carob or 1/2 c. cocoa
4 1/3 tbsp canned milk (I think that is 4 tbsp and 1 tsp)
2 # powdered sugar (a whole bag)
2 tbsp vanilla
1/3 cup chopped nuts (optional of course)
Put all ingredients into mixer, mix well. It will be thick. Put into a buttered (9/13 for thick), and refrigerate overnight.
Can be frozen.
When this was made for the school it was obviously made in huge batches. My mother broke it down into a manageable amount. Thank Mom.

Frozen Apple Pie Filling

2009-10-24T16:40:00.000-07:00

Mrs "C" gave me this recipe. So easy and tastes good too. No canner needed and bottles are optional and freezer space is a must when you find out how easy and tasty it is. Give it a try.

12 cups peeled and slice apples
Put in microwave on high for 5 minutes, stir and cook 5 more minutes.
Stir together:
1 c sugar
6 tbsp flour
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp cinnamon (use more if like it more cinnamon)
dash of salt
Add to apples, stir well.
You may add 1/2 tsp vanilla and 1/4 tsp almond extract of desired.
Put in quart freezer bags or quart jars. Freeze and enjoy.

Carrot Cookies

2009-09-05T20:11:00.000-07:00

This is a fall favorite for us. They are so moist. You'd never know they had carrots in them.
1/2 c oil
3/4 c sugar
4 egg white (or two whole eggs)
1 c mashed and cooked carrots
2 c flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla
1 c nuts (optional)
Bake at 350 for 12 mnutes

Frost with orange juice and powdered sugar and margarine. (optional)

Mom's Applesauce Cake

2009-09-05T20:03:00.001-07:00

Brings back memories of growing up. My mom use to make this one.
4 c flour
4 tsp soda
1 1/4 tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cloves
2+ tbsp cocoa ( add more if you want a more chocolatey taste)
1 c oil
2 c sugar
3 c applesauce
1/2 c raisins
1/2 c walnuts (optional)
combine oil and sugar. Add applesauce then dry ingredients, finally raisins and nuts. Pour in greased 9x13. Bake 400 for 15 min, then turn down to 375 for 15 minutes.

Zucchini Brownies

2009-09-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

My neighbor gave this one to me. It's heart smart and with the added bonus of being egg and dairy free.
2 c. shredded zucchini
1 tsp salt
2 c. flour
1/2 c. cocoa
1 1/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. oil
1 1/2 tsp soda
2 tsp vanilla
chopped nut (optional)
icing (optional)
Sift dry ingredients together. Combine zucchini and oil. Blend in dry ingredients, vanilla and nuts. Spread onto oiled 11 x 15 (or if you like them a little thicker use 9 x 13) baking pan. Bake at 350 for 18-20 minutes.

Rhubarb Cake

2009-09-05T19:29:00.000-07:00

Only those with the very finest of taste buds can taste the Rhubarb and dislike this cake. I made this once when my brother came over and he has a definite dislike for Rhubarb, after the second piece I fessed up and was impressed.
Topping: make first and refrigerate until needed.
1/2 C. brown sugar
1/4 C. margarine
1 tsp cinnamon
Mix until crumbly
Cake:
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 c. flour
1/2 c. margarine
1 tsp soda
1 egg
1/2 tsp salt
1 c buttermilk or sour milk
2 c chopped rhubarb (make be cooked)
1 tsp vanilla
Cream together sugar and margarine. Add rhubarb, egg and beat until smooth. Add buttermilk and vanilla. combine flour, soda and salt. Add to creamed mixture, fold in rhubarb. Pour into greased, well floured 9x13 pan. Sprinkle topping over cake batter. Bake 35-45 minutes at 350 degrees.

No Bake Peanut Butter Cereal cookies

2009-08-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

So easy and fun to make. These never go to waste at our house.

6 cups Rice Chex or Honey Nut Cherios type cereal
3/4 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
peanuts (optional)
Combine corn syrup, peanut butter, butter, and sugar, over medium heat. Stir to dissolve. Bring to a full rolling boil. Remove from heat, pour over cereal. Drop by spoonfuls on greased pan or spread in pan to make bars.

Jan's Cookies

2009-05-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

When ever I stop at my brother's house his wife offers me a treat. I never turn her down because she always has the tastiest treats. Last time I went it was these cookies. All I can say is YUMMMMMM. It's basically your favorite oatmeal cookie with craisins and white chocolate chips added in. For convenience sake here is her recipe.

1 C butter (or 1/2 shortening and 1/2 c butter/margarine)
3/4 C brown sugar
3/4 C white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 C oatmeal
2+ c flour
coconut, nuts, raisins, craisins, chocolate chips, white chips or what ever you prefer to add in.

Heat oven to 350. Cream butter and sugars. Add eggs and vanilla and mix well. Add soda, salt and flour, then add oatmeal, mix. Fold in whatever you want to flavor, craisins and white chips is a good choice. Drop by large spoonfuls onto cookie sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes, until barely browned. Let cool slightly before enjoying. Makes about 4 dozen cookies.

Lemon Cheesecake Squares

2009-05-09T20:03:00.000-07:00

Found this in a magazine and had to try. YUMMY is all I can say. I was afraid it would be too lemony, and I am not a big lemon fan. But it was just right.

1 pkg(3oz) lemon-flavored Jell-O
1 c. boiling water
1 1/2 c. graham crumbs
3 tbsp butter, melted
1 tbsp brown sugar
8 oz lite cream cheese (not fat free), in a brick
1 c sugar
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tsp grated lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla
4 c light whipped topping, thawed
1. In a small bowl, dissolve Jell-O in boiling water. Refrigerate until slightly thickened, but not set (about 45 minutes).
2. Meanwhile, prepare crust. In a small bowl, combine graham crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Stir well using a fork. Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray. Press crumb mixture evenly over bottom of pan. Refrigerate while you make filling.
3. To prepare filling, beat together cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest and vanilla on high speak of electric mixer until smooth. Add thickened jell-O and beat on medium until well blended Fold in whipped topping.
4. Pour filling over prepared crust and spread evenly to edges of pan. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set. Cut into squares and serve.

You may also put fresh fruit or pie filling on top.

Only 129 calories.

Ham and Corn Chowder

2009-04-21T15:27:00.000-07:00

Sometimes straightforward soups are the best. This is a simple corn chowder with cubed ham added. It’s a great recipe for that leftover ham from your holiday dinner.

I will be honest and say I stole this recipe from a friend whose business is cooking or supplying or I 'm not sure how to explain. http://www.preparedpantry.com I just know they have mixes and other yummy stuff to buy either online or from their store just outside of Rigby.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped 3
tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 15-ounce can chicken broth
2 cups cubed potatoes
2 cups half and half or 2 cups milk
2 15-ounce cans corn, undrained
1 1/2 cups diced ham
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or one tablespoon dried
Directions
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Add onion and cook until tender, stirring frequently. Add the flour and stir to make a paste. Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring frequently with a whisk to avoid lumps.
Add the potatoes. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until potatoes are barely tender.
Stir in half and half and both cans of undrained corn. Cook uncovered for six to eight minutes. Stir in ham and parsley. Reheat if necessary.

Chocolate Eclair Cake (aka Moon Cake and several other names.)

2009-04-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

I went to a party where this was served, and of course every one loved it. It had a familiar taste but, until I finally got the recipe I couldn't be sure. It was the same one my sister calls Moon Cake with slight variations, size of pan and the use of nuts.

Chocolate Eclair Cake
Crust:
1 cube margarine/butter
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. water
1 c. flour
4 eggs
Filling:
3 c. milk
3 sm. packages vanilla instant pudding
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 (12-oz.) tub Cool Whip
Chocolate syrup (you may also use caramel or strawberry or all three)
Nuts (optional)
Crust: Bring margarine/butter, water and salt to a boil. Remove from heat. Add 1 cup flour and beat in 4 eggs, 1 at a time. Spread on lightly greased cookie sheet (Use a 9x13 for a thicker crust.) Prick with fork. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes. Cool.
Filling: Beat together, milk, pudding and cream cheese. Spread on crust. Spread Cool Whip on top of filling and drizzle chocolate syrup and nuts, if desired, on top. Chill 3 to 4 hours.

Poor Mans Prime Rib

2009-04-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

Several years ago a friend of ours volunteered to cook prime rib for a church dinner. Only one problem, this was a group of poor starving college students who can really eat. This was not really a problem because this is Poor Mans Prime Rib. (I promise they ate till they were stuffed and then ate some more.) Of course real prime rib is the best (and expensive) but this is a darn good second.
First you need to buy a boneless chuck eye roast (this is the cut next to a prime rib cut and about 1/2 or less in price.). Plan on 1/4 - 1/2 pound for each person. You will probably have to get this from a regular butcher, not necessarily the local grocery store. In southeast Idaho we go to Doug's meat. While there buy the Spicecraft Prime Steak and Beef Burger Seasoning*, as it's not carried in just any store. You can also buy it online at http://www.newlywedsfoods.com/Services/shakeonseason.html .
Liberally/heavily coat the roast with the seasoning. Then sprinkle with McCormicks Grill Mates Montreal Spicy Steak.
Heat oven to 500 degrees (I know it's hot, but it's important to seal in the juices). Put roast in large baking pan and place in hot oven for 20 minutes. Turn heat down to 250 and bake for 15 minutes per pound for rare, longer if you want medium. Use a meat thermometer to check.
When it's done, remove from oven and let set 10 minutes. In the meantime, in a large frying pan mix up several package of Au ju, any brand mix will do. Slice, dip/soak in hot Au ju for a minute or two, serve and enjoy.
We found an electric knife makes cutting it much easier. If some one is queasy about their meat being less than done, soak their slice a little longer in the au ju.

We have yet to find any complaints with this recipe. If you try it, hopefully it will be as good for you as for us.

*Warning: this is loaded with MSG. Do not use if you are allergic or sensitive to MSG.

Not your usual Green Bean Casserole

2009-02-17T18:04:00.000-08:00

My mother-in-law is allergic to mushrooms, my daughter-in-law can't handle MSG and my sister has celiac disease so she avoids anything with gluten. Thus the regular Green Bean Casserole is out of the question. Then I was given this one which is easy to adapt to accommodate the eating challenges of those around me. We like this one just as well as the other recipe,.

2 cans french cut green beans
8 oz mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp butter or margarine
2 Tbsp flour or cornstarch
2 tsp grated onion
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp sugar
1 c sour cream
cornflakes or french fried onions

melt butter, add onion, saute lightly. Add flour, salt pepper, sugar, and cook one minute. Add sour cream, cook one minute. Put beans in baking dish, top with cheese then sauce, then corn flakes or french fried onions. Bake at 400 until heated through, about 20 minutes.

Fruit and Pasta Salad

2009-02-09T20:46:00.000-08:00

This is a bit unusual, the combination of orange and pasta but so very tasty. Of course as with most recipes there is a real recipe and then the way you make it. I will try to share them both.

1 pkg small bowtie pasta, cooked and drained.
2 oranges
2 medium apples, cored and chopped
1/2 c plain low-fat yogurt
1 tbsp sugar
1/8 tsp salt
2 tbsp sliced green onions
2 tbsp orange juice (I use concentrate, it makes the orange taste just a little stronger)

Directions:
1. Finely shred enough orange peel to make 1 tsp; set aside. Remove the remaining peel from orange and section and/slice.
2 Mix together orange peel, orange juice, yogurt, sugar and salt. Add cooked pasta, chopped apples and sliced green onions, toss to coat. Gently stir in orange sections.
3. Cover and chill for 2 to 24 hours.

We find the green onions can overpower the flavor so we wait until just before serving to add them. Also, if it chills for 24 hours the pasta soaks up the sauce, so we double the amount then just before serving we stir in the second half. I have also added more orange juice and sugar till I like the taste.
If you make it and make changes that you find make it better let me know, I would love to try it also.

Broccoli Cheese Soup

2008-12-26T17:01:00.000-08:00

For a family party I needed to take Broccoli cheese soup, so I found one on the Internet that seemed easy enough and that had received several good reviews. It turned out really good and the recipe was requested. Here it is Arilee, enjoy.

several bunches of broccoli, chopped
1/2 onion chopped
1 tbsp butter (or be heart healthy and use olive oil)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 carrot, shredded (optional)
2 cans chicken broth
1 jar cheese whiz
1 1/2 c. cream, or whole milk, or canned milk, or half and half
1 cup cold water
1/3 c. corn starch
saute onion in butter till soft, add carrot and garlic and saute another minute. Add broccoli and chicken broth. Let simmer 10-15 minutes. Add cheese whiz, on low heat let it melt, stirring frequently. Add milk. Stir corn starch into cold water, add to soup. Heat till thick stirring often. if it seems too thick add more milk.

Sister Beazer's Pickled Green Beans

2008-12-23T17:00:00.000-08:00

If you can make cucmber pickles then you can make green beans. My mother-in-law makes the very best dill pickles. The neighbor kids have been known to stop by and ask her for a pickle, even after they have married and moved away. I have tried her recipe and mine just don't turn out the same. I found a mix one day that was easy to use and I have done so ever since. The pickles are okay but our favorite is the Green Beans. So here is the secret: Mrs. Wages Kosher Dill Quick Process Pickle Mix. I have tried other brands and they just aren't the same, I have also tried Mrs. Wages Dill Pickle Mix and we like the Kosher better. Since it is a seasonal item you may not be able to find it anywhere except in the fall.

Here the instructions for what I do.

Buy or pick green beans, the straighter the better. Wash and snip off the ends.

Pack/stack tightly into a pint bottle. I usually have enough extra long ones for a quart or two. Use a chopstick or something similar to push beans around so you can get more in. I have even put a carrot in for looks. Add several pearl onions or a thick slice of onion. Because I have small garlic in my garden I add one or two to use them up.

Make the mix according to the directions on the package.

5 C. distilled white vinegar, 5% acidity

11 C. Water

1 pouch Mrs. Wages Kosher Dill pickle mix.

Combine above ingredients in a large nonaluminum container. Heat mixture just to boinling over medium hear, stirring constantly until boiling.

Pour hot liquid over packed jars. Wipe lips, then use a clean warm lid and ring to seal. Process like pickles, 10 minutes for pints, 15 for quarts.

Let sit for several days to cure, they will look shrivel for the first couple of weeks but they still tast the same. Enjoy.

Red Velvet Cake (egg free)

2008-12-10T16:50:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite cakes, especially to make. It requires no eggs, and you don't have to dirty a mixer and beaters unless you really want to. It is a bit on the heavy side, but that's why I love it.

3 c. flour
2 c. sugar
2 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
1/3 c. cocoa
Stir above ingredients well then add:
2 c. cold water
1 tsp vanilla
2 tsp vinegar
Stir and add:
3/4 c. vegetable oil (I have been know to use part applesauce)
1 oz red food coloring (save a few drops for the frosting)
Pour into a greased 9x13 cake pan. Bake at 350 for 35 min.

Frosting:
5 tbsp flour 1 c. milk
Cook until thick, stirring constantly. Let cool
Cream:
1 c. butter
1 c. powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
several drops of food coloring
Add flour mixture one tbsp at a time, mixing well between. Beat until fluffy.

Cream Cheese Brownies

2008-12-09T14:35:00.000-08:00

One of the sisters from Syd's ward made these for a party and they were delicious. Just had to have the recipe

1 German chocolate Cake mix

1 egg
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350. Mix cake mix according to package directions. Pour into greased 9 X 13 cake pan.
Mix egg, cream cheese and sugar until just blended. Fold in chocolate chips.
Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture onto cake and draw a butter knife through it to swirl it. Sprinkle with extra chocolate chips & pecans.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until cake is springy and cooked though. Cool and cut with a plastic knife using a sawing motion.

Pumpkin Pie Dip

2008-12-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

This is a great way to use up left over Pumpkin. We also serve it with apples and other fruit.

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Gingersnap cookies
Directions: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and confectioners' sugar until smooth. Beat in the pumpkin, sour cream, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice and ginger until blended. Serve with gingersnaps. Refrigerate leftovers. Yield: 4 cups.

Carrot Hamburger Soup

2008-11-09T16:46:00.000-08:00

This is our favorite soup. It has a hearty textures with just a bit of sweet.

1 # hamburger
1 med. onion chopped
1 can cream of celery soup
2 Tbsp brown sugar
1/4 tsp garlic salt
1 c water
2 c tomato or V8 juice (I use a 12 oz can), for fun try the spicy V8
1 c grated carrots (may use more)
1/4 tsp black pepper, more is good also
Brown hamburger and onion, add everything else, simmer 40 min. Excellent the next day.

Sometimes I add chopped celery and fresh garlic.

Orange Cream Salad

2008-11-05T17:01:00.000-08:00

I am sure this recipe has a real name but this is what Syd said it tasted like to him so it stuck.
1 carton (16oz) cottage cheese
1 box (3oz) orange jello, dry
1 can manderin oranges, drained
1 can (15oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 tub (12 oz) whipped topping

Mix cottage cheese with jello powder, fold in oranges, pineapple and whipped topping.
Enjoy.

Apple Salad

2008-10-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

This is similar to a Waldorf salad. It's a bit unusual but so very simple and tasty.

2 red or green apples, cored and chopped, (leave the skin on for color)
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/2 c. chopped nuts, almonds, walnuts, cashews or pecans, whatever you have

Dressing:
3/4 c. mayonnaise
2 Tbsp powdered sugar (use more or less to taste)
Mix p. sugar with mayonnaise one tbsp at a time, so it's to your taste.

Marcella's Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

2008-10-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Our friend Marcella made these for a pumpkin cooking contest. They certainly deserved first place. We loved the left overs.

1 c. cooked canned pumpkin
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. oil
1 egg
2 c. flour
1 tsp vanilla
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp. baking soda, dissolved in 1 tsp. milk
1 c. chocolate chips
Combine pumpkin, sugar, oil and egg. Stir together with flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Add dissolved soda andvanilla to mixture. Add chocolate chips. Grease cookie sheet. Drop by teaspoon. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. May be frosted with Cream Cheese frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting
1 8oz cube cream cheese
1 lb. powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cube (1/2 c.) butter or margarine
Cream together till smooth. Makes enough for one large carke or 24 cupcakes. also good on cinnamon rolls.
Variation: add 4 Tbsp cocoa

Apple Dumpling Rolls

2008-09-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

What are they and how did they originate? An apple dumpling traditionally is to take pastry dough rolled into a square, put an apple, that has been peeled and cored, and maybe some raisins and nuts into the middle, pull up the corners, put in a pan, cover with a syrup, bake, serve warm with sweet cream. Growing up my mother would make them for us each fall when the apples came on. It was a delicious way of using them up. As our family grew (10 children in all) it became harder to make enough so there wasn't any fighting or waste. By necessity our mother became creative in her cooking and sewing. One night she decided to make them more like cinnamon rolls. It was a success. We loved them and they became a special treat. Sadly our spouses don't all agree with us, but they patiently suffer through them. So here is the recipes as best as I can put it down, we are a dump and pour cooking family.

Baking Powder Biscuit Dough: Use your favorite dough recipe. You will probably need to double the recipe to make a 9x13 pan size.
Roll out about 1/4" thick into an oblong shape. Spread a bit of butter on the dough, then about 2-3 cups of peeled and grated apples. Top with some brown sugar. Roll up, slice about 2" thick, put into a buttered 9x13 pan. Pour syrup over top, making sure you cover each roll. Bake at 400 for 30 minutes. Serve warm with sweet cream or ice cream.

Syrup
3 cups brown sugar
1 1/2 cup water
Heat to a boil.

Okay, I told you that the other half didn't care for these, so when discussing the dilemma with my baby sis she mentioned a site and recipe for a variation that she found her family pefered. so I tried it. All I can say is YUMMMMMMM. It is incredible and the other half willingly had a second helping. I could have posted the recipe but you really should read and see how it is done. Here is the web address http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/02/apple_dumplings/.
Try it and enjoy. I must admit though I did make a slight variation, I only used had the amount of butter and made up the difference with apple juice. I am going to try it again and use either peaches or pears. I think either will be delicious.

Butter Syrup

2008-09-11T21:23:00.000-07:00

1 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1 can evaporated milk
Heat, stiring frequently, until butter and sugar are melted. (will separate easily so stir often when serving.

Baked French Toast

2008-09-11T21:20:00.000-07:00

1 loaf French bread
8 eggs
2 cups half & half
1 cup milk
2 Tbs sugar
1 Tsp vanilla
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
Dash salt
Praline topping
Maple Syrup (or butter syrup)

Slice bread into 1” slices. Arrange in a well-buttered 9x13 cake pan in 2 layers –overlapping.

In a bowl mix eggs, half & half, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and beat until well-blended but not too bubbly. Pour evenly over bread slices, spoon between slices.

Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.

Heat over to 350.

Spread praline topping over and bake 40 min until puffy and light golden.

PRALINE TOPPING

2 sticks butter
1 Cup packed brown sugar
1 cup chopped pecans
2 Tbs light corn syrup
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tso nutmeg

Combine and blend well.

Deep Fried Summer Squash

2008-09-06T19:52:00.000-07:00

This is an old family favorite and actually very easy.
1 yellow (crookneck) summer squash, sliced
1 pkg "Dixie" Fry mix
Water
Oil
Mix Dixie Fry with water to about the consistency of pancake batter. Heat the oil in a deep pan. Dip the squash in the Dixie Fry and put in oil. It will sink. When it rises to the top and is lightly browned, turn over and cook a few more minutes. Remove and allow to drain on a plate covered with paper towels. Serve with fry sauce (Ketchup and mayonnaise mixed).

Strawberry/Raspberry Dessert

2008-07-27T21:15:00.000-07:00

Crust:
2 C. flour
1/2 C. brown sugar
1 C. butter or margarine
1/2 C. nuts
Mix like pie dough. Pat in 9x13 pan. Bake @ 275 for 15 minutes. Cool, crumble, press 3/4 in bottom of pan.
Cream Cheese layer:
2 8 oz cream cheese*
1 C. powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
8 oz whipped topping*
Cream together cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla. Fold in whipped topping. Spread on crust.
Fruit topping:
1 pkg strawberry or raspberry Danish Dessert
1 3/4 C. cold water or juice
10 oz or more of strawberries or raspberries or a mix of berries
In medium sized pan, mix Danish Dessert and water, stirring constantly bring to a boil. Let boil one minute. Cool slightly, gently mix in berries. Spread on top of cream cheese.
Sprinkle remaining crust on top.
Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy.
*I have used low fat and non fat and it doesn't seem to affect the consistancy, just the carbs.

Salsa (aka Texas Caviar)

2008-07-03T21:09:00.000-07:00

14 roma tomatoes

2 bunches long green onions
1 bunch ciantro
1 yellow, 1 orange and 1 red pepper, (may substitue a green for one of them)

Chop above ingredients very small, then add following ingredients :

1 can diced jalapenos with juice (or use fresh, finely chopped, to taste)
3 can chopped olives
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz.) bottle of Zesty Italian Salad dressing, drain off oil
3 cans white shoepeg corn (must be shoepeg)
2 tbsp. vinegar, red or white
2 tbsp. "Cavender's" allpurpose Greek seasoning
2 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. limejuice

Serve with chips, ENJOY

recipes doesn't call for cucumber but I have used and most people enjoy the taste.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake

2008-07-03T14:14:00.000-07:00

INGREDIENTS:
1-3/4 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 pound fresh or frozen strawberries, thawed
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
2 packages (8 ounces each) fat-free cream cheese, cubed
1 cup (8 ounces) fat-free cottage cheese
Sugar substitute equivalent to 3/4 cup sugar
1 carton (8 ounces) frozen reduced-fat Cool Whip® whipped topping, thawed, divided
13 medium fresh strawberries
4 squares (1 ounce each) semisweet chocolate

DIRECTIONS
In a small bowl, combine cracker crumbs and butter. Press onto the bottom and 1 in. up the sides of a 9-in. springform pan coated with cooking spray. Place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes or until set. Cool on a wire rack. Hull strawberries if necessary; puree in a food processor. Remove and set aside. In a small saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over cold water; let stand for 1 minute. Heat over low heat, stirring until gelatin is completely dissolved. Transfer to the food processor; add cream cheese, cottage cheese and sugar substitute. Cover and process until smooth. Add strawberry puree; cover and process until blended. Transfer to a large bowl; fold in 2 cups whipped topping. Pour into crust. Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until set. For garnish, wash strawberries and gently pat with paper towels until completely dry. Cut tops off berries. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate at 50% power; stir until smooth. Dip each berry tip until half of the berry is coated, allowing excess to drip off. Place with tips pointing up on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of springform pan to loosen; remove sides of pan. Arrange berries, chocolate tips up, around edge of cheesecake and place one in the center. Garnish with remaining whipped topping. Refrigerate leftovers. Yield: 12 servings.
Nutrition Facts
One serving: 1 slice
Calories: 245
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Cholesterol: 14 mg
Sodium: 377 mg
Carbohydrate: 26 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 10 g
Diabetic Exch: 2 starch, 2 fat.

Roll-ups

2008-06-30T21:57:00.001-07:00

There isn't a real recipe just a few ideas and then create your own.
Here is what I often do:
Take a large totilla shell(burito size) and warm it slightly, spread garden vegetable cream cheese on it. You could also make your own using soft cream cheese and whatever sounds good. Then layer on it any or all of the following, thin sliced ham or turkey or what ever sounds good, thinly sliced cucumber, avocado (sprinkle with a little lime juice to keep from going brown), tomato, onion, alfalfa sprouts, spinach leaves, red and/or green peppers, banana peppers, jalopena peppers, artichoke hearts (marinated or plain), mushrooms, black or green olives. Don't put so much on they won't roll. Roll tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat. Slice diagonally and enjoy. These are easy to make and serve on a hot summer's day.

Sister Broulim's Honey Butter

2008-06-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

1 cube butter (not margarine)
1 small jar marshmellow cream
2 to 3 tbsp honey ( to taste)
1/2 tsp vanilla

Whip all together and enjoy