Origination of the humble Bangers and Mash Thought to be an Irish dish, Bangers & Mash originates throughout the British Isles, a group of islands including Great Britain, Ireland, and over six thousand smaller isles. In native British terms, the “bangers” portion of the dish has been linked to the World War I meat shortage. Sausages were produced with such a high water content, they popped under high heat cooking methods. Modern sausages do not contain such a high water content. Construction of Bangers & Mash Bangers & Mash can be constructed using any type of sausage you like. Traditional dishes are made of pork or beef, or a Cumberland…
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Simplified Leek Potato Soup Recipe
I have tested many, many different leek potato soup recipes, this simplified version is the easiest and flavorful. What are leeks? Native to Mediterranean countries, leeks hold a flavorful spotlight in today’s culinary scene. Although resembling a giant scallion or green onion, the leek is related to both the garlic and the onion, though its flavor and fragrance are milder and more subtle. It has a thick, white stalk, cylindrical in shape, and has a slightly bulbous root end. Leeks are available year-round in most regions. Tips When Using Leeks Choose those with crisp, brightly colored leaves and an unblemished white portion. Avoid those with withered or yellow-spotted leaves. The…
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Braised Halibut With Leeks
What is braising? Braising involves cooking a protein in a small amount of liquid at low heat, covered for an extended amount of time. This method allows for flavorful, tender food, by breaking down the fibers. A tight-fitting lid is important. Do not create too much liquid either, this can cause the fish to become mushy. This recipe is from America’s Test Kitchen Season 16 and provides a light, easy weeknight meal. Halibut is an expensive cut of fish. It is low in fat, white, firm, and has a buttery flavor. Make sure to buy fillets, which are usually available either fresh or frozen. Cutting Leeks It is very important…
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Zucchini Tots on National Zucchini Day!
National Zucchini Day with Zucchini Tots! Zucchini has long been thought of as a vegetable, as it belongs to the squash family, but botanically, it is a fruit because it grows from a flower. It can grow to a meter in length, however, it is usually harvested when it is half that size. Traditionally green; however, the golden zucchini, a related hybrid is a deep yellow or orange color. They are very low in calories and contain good amounts of potassium and Vitamin A. The flower of the plant is edible and can be used as a garnish for presentation. Last month, my daughter-in-law made Zucchini Tots courtesy of…
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Homemade Tomato Sauce Without Sweating Over a Hot Stove
With the bounty of my home-grown tomatoes and Doug’s love for red pasta sauces; I have been searching for a tomato sauce, NOT requiring me to sweat over a hot stove all day long. So, imagine my elation when I discovered a recipe that I can use my home-grown tomatoes and the Crock-Pot! The Crock-Pot below can be programmed to start cooking while you are at work AND you can carry it to a dinner party! Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S Programmable Cook and Carry Oval Slow Cooker, 6-Quart Because this was a new recipe and it would just be my husband and myself dining, I cut this recipe in half for this…
