Have you ever considered buying frozen vegetables? Frozen vegetables are a convenient, time-saving short cut when preparing meals at home. Perfect for soups and stews (where the vegetable is NOT the primary ingredient), these packaged foods sometimes hold flavor better than their fresh counterpart, especially when the vegetable is out of season. I would never recommend using frozen vegetables in a fresh salad; or frozen onions in a French Onion Soup, however, they work well in hearty dishes cooked in a slow-cooker, such as the Bachelor Beef Stew below. Which frozen vegetables are the best to buy? Not all vegetables are worth buying from the frozen food department. Vegetables with…
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Autumn Flavor Filled Chicken and Dumplings
Being an avid home cook, over the years I have tried many chicken and dumplings recipes; including both of my grandmother’s versions. Although this recipe is simple, it does take about 90 minutes but the deep, full flavor will be so worth it on a cool autumn evening. The key is cooking not only thighs but also wings. If you prefer white meat, you can substitute the thighs for breast, however, you will sacrifice some flavor. My husband is NOT a fan of leftovers; however, THIS chicken and dumplings, he REQUESTED to take for lunch leftovers. To make the stew: 2 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs 1 teaspoon table…
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Taking Steak and Potatoes Up a Notch
Steak de Burgo was created in Des Moines, Iowa around 1939 and can take a steak and potatoes dinner up a notch. Just another name for steak and potatoes, this rich dish is traditionally made with a good cut of beef tenderloin, covered in a creamy mushroom sauce. Because it is so easy and quick to make, I thought it would be a perfect recipe for just two people, but ingredient portions could be increased to serve more. As an accompaniment, my mashed potatoes were made using russets. Yukon Gold would produce a more creamy, buttery textured dish; however, Russets was what I had on hand. Regardless if you use…
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Simple Asian Dinner: Pork and Rice
This simple Asian dinner is my substitute for Chinese take out. Some Chinese take out is loaded in MSG, which I try to avoid. Although easy, this Pork and Rice dish is filling and a great option for a weeknight meal. It can be done in only one pot and one skillet, for less clean up. What is Monosodium glutamate? MSG is the salt-based compound used as a flavor enhancer in dishes that need a more intense “meaty” taste. Although deemed safe by the Food and Drug Administration, MSG is linked to severe headaches, bloating, and general discomfort. Found in many processed foods, it is harmful to those diagnosed with…
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Chicken Enchiladas For Two
Enchiladas are an easy weeknight meal, which can be very healthy if you use good ingredients. Simple and easy to prepare, I made these chicken enchiladas with my favorite go-to, pre-cooked, pre-chopped PERDUEchicken. ***this post contains affiliate links to which, if you make a purchase, I will be paid a small commission. Great invention for couples, or even one person. Of course, you can prepare raw chicken, however, I think it tends to get a bit dried out for this application. These were delicious and only baked for 20 minutes. Prep time was about 15 minutes…dinner under an hour! CLICK HERE TO SHOP! Make Your Own Enchilada Red Sauce Ingredient…
