Let's Cook

[SittinGrumpy]

Many of you wanted a thread with more longevity then a month of cooking. I agree, so here it is.


As many of you know I am in the process of losing weight so many of my recipes will be part of my new way of eating. I am not posting the calories but if you want to know about certain recipes just PM me.

Being that NC is famous for Pork BBQ it only fits for me to start with my BBQ sandwich.

Pork is not good for you, it is one of the hardest meats to digest. When I began eating better I developed an alternative to the vinegar based BBQ sandwich that is lower in fat and calories.

Ingredients for BBQ:
1 whole chicken
1 cup of Wells Hog Heaven BBQ Sauce (http://carolinasauce.stores.yahoo.net/1380000-1088131460.html)

Prepare the chicken:

Step 1: Boil the chicken until it is done.
Step 2: Once chicken is completely cooked, pull it out of the water and let if cool enough to touch
Step 3: Pull off all the skin
Step 4: Remove all chicken from the bones
Step 5: Use a fork and shred all the chicken up


Once the chicken is shredded, add 1 cup of Well's sauce and mix. You can add more if you like, make sure all the chicken is covered. Place chicken back on stove for a 30 minutes on warm. This gives the sauce and chicken time to blend well.

In the meantime, let's make coleslaw.

Ingredients:
10 oz of shredded cabbage
1/2 cup of hellman's light mayo
1/8 cup of apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon of celery seed
4 packets of Splenda

Prepare the slaw:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until chicken is ready.


For a bun I use 7 Grain Deli Flats (http://www.pepperidgefarm.com/ProductDetail.aspx?catID=994&prdID=120935)

Assemble:

Place 1/4 cup chicken on the bottom bun:

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2445&d=1299339895

Place 1 tablespoon of coleslaw and Texas Pete on the chicken:

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2446&d=1299339895

Top it off and you are ready to eat:

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2447&d=1299339895


Two sandwich's made exactly this way are a total of 14 weight watchers points plus points.

BBQ has 6 points for a serving, each sandwich has 1/2 a serving
Bread is 5 points for the two sandwiches
Coleslaw is 3 points per serving, each sandwich has 1/2 a serving (you can reduce this by using fat free mayo)

[Mamba]

Yum! Looks good. I've never made coleslaw with sugar, though - or even sugar substitute.

My ingredients for coleslaw are the following:

½ white cabbage
2 large carrots
½ red onion
4 tablespoons good mayonnaise
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoons lemon juice
salt and pepper to season

Kudos for thread & pics :D

[SpringChicken]

What a coincidence! I'm making pulled pork BBQ tomorrow, with my home made BBQ sauce and coleslaw.

Yours looks really good, Grumpy. Mmm... BBQ chicken....

Sugar in cole slaw is a southern US thing, I think. I'm from VA, but I fucking hate sugar in cole slaw. I think I might be bodily removed across the Mason Dixon for my opinion.
I just put mayo, white wine vinegar, cabbage, carrots, salt, pepper, celery seed, and sometimes onion in mine.

[Josie]

Umm... so most of my recipes are not as healthy as yours.. should I make a fatso food thread? :yociexp49:

[SittinGrumpy]

should I make a fatso food thread?

Nope, I think it should all be in one thread. If I see one I like I will make it healthy and share how I did it lol

[Josie]

I will make it healthy and share how I did it

haha okay!

[KommieKat]

This is VERY SIMPLE and QUICK and HEALTHY
You can use a variation on this with one day being chicken and another time being seafood.

STIR FRY FOR THE WOK (or fry pan)

Ingrediants:
small amount of oil
1 Red bell pepper
1 Yellow bell pepper
(throw in a green one if you like)
3 cloves garlic
3 cloves shallots
1 onion
salt/pepper
cornstarch for thickness
Chinese cooking wine (optional)
Meat: You can use chicken or a mix with shrimp and mussels. Use any meat you like. Doesn't matter.
Note: my father-in-law showed me this with pork stomach

Method:
Put small amount of oil in wok
Add garlic and shallots
Add your meat, cook about 5 mins or until cooked (it will be cooked again)
Take out and set aside.

Add cut up veggies. Make them all even cut for even cooking.
DON'T OVER COOK! You want a bit of crisp to them and not too limp but some can't be helped.
Add the meat back in with the veggies.
Add Salt/Pepper
Add small amount of Cornstarch for thickness.


Remember, this is stir fry, so be sure to stir it at times and cover it up with a lid at time and stir again.
Serve in a big serving plate or bowl. People will help themselves to it, since most Asian eating time is communal.

[Mamba]

This is VERY SIMPLE and QUICK and HEALTHY
You can use a variation on this with one day being chicken and another time being seafood.

STIR FRY FOR THE WOK (or fry pan)


I make this quite often, with all the ingredients listed above - but also: sometimes mushrooms, soya/terakyi sauce and noodles. YUM!

[Mamba]

Umm... so most of my recipes are not as healthy as yours..

Really?? I thought your recipes would all be made of organic healthy veggies, brown rice...soya.... etc. Am I missing something?

[Josie]

Really?? I thought your recipes would all be made of organic healthy veggies, brown rice...soya.... etc. Am I missing something?

They are! They're also full of healthy fats, honey, etc. Stuff that the typical American views as unhealthy, too fattening, and whatever else.

Sooo... I'll just say it's full of bad stuff so they can substitute the weird stuff in the name of health :)

[Toao]

someone needs to try my whole roast chicken I put on the "cooking with Geddy" thread.


Simple & cheap. Start with a whole chicken, 4 potatos, 4-5 carrots, a head of garlic, some rosemary, and a lemon. and of course, salt & pepper, or anything else.

Heat the oven to 400 degrees, clean the chicken inside & out, and peel the garlic cloves, cut the taters into 1/4's and the carrots into couple " pieces or whatever. Put them and the garlic cloves in a baking dish. Rub the chicken with olive oil, and put it on top of the veggies, & garlic, using them as a rack. Cut the lemon in half, and put it in the cavity, sliced side up. You can try other veggies too. Personally, I like roma tomatoes.If you get the packet of fresh rosemary, you have a lot, so either save it for another chicken, or stuff the leftover in the cavity, sprinkle the chicken and some of the veggies with rosemary, and the s&p or whatever, and put it in the oven for 20-25 minutes per lb.

The lemon steams it from the inside out, and makes a nice sauce. When you're done, one kickass yardbird

It really does kick some serious ass, and makes your house smell greAT.

http://img815.imageshack.us/img815/9011/birdn.jpg

[Josie]

I should have taken pics last night. Forgot about this though. Baked chicken thighs with roasted garlic potatoes with broccoli and green onions. Twas yummers :)

[SittinGrumpy]

Anyone have a good recipe for beef and broccoli?

[Josie]

Lunch today: Watermelon radishes, green onions, broccoli stalks, tomatoes, butter, basil, oregano, garlic, onion, cayenne, cilantro.

https://www.facebook.com/ladyfast#%21/photo.php?fbid=10150109098502752&set=a.10150089285147752.277546.500777751&theaterhttp://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a328/Josiekittie/veggies.jpg

the makings:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a328/Josiekittie/makings.jpg

end result:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a328/Josiekittie/result.jpg

served with thai style peanut sauce. Mmmm..... it was good.

lots of butter, lots of sugar in the sauce

[SittinGrumpy]

Lunch today

Looks delicious!!! I have never used rice stick.

[Josie]

Looks delicious!!! I have never used rice stick.

It's actually supremely easy... easier than rice. Boil for 1.5 minutes, strain. eat. yum.

[Toao]

"Where's the Beef?"

All kidding aside, it looks great

[SlimSkeeter]

Mexican Lasagna!

Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs ground beef (I normally use turkey) browned
1 16oz can of refried beans
1/2 teaspoon died oregano
...2 teaspoons ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
12 uncooked lasagna noodles
2 1/2 cups of water
2 1/2 cups salsa
2 cups sour cream
3/4 cup sliced green onion
1 small can sliced olives
1/2 cup shredded cheese.

Now...that was the ORIGINAL recipe...I've since added and removed a few things each time but you get the idea.

Preheat oven to 350F, lightly spray a 13X9 baking pan with nonstick spray, combine browned meat, beans, oregano, cumin, and garlic powder.
Place 4 noodles on bottom of the pan, spread half the meat mixture over noodles, place 4 more on top of THAT. Spread the other half of the mix over these noodles and top with the remaining noodles.
Combine the water and salsa and pour over the noodles. Cover with foil and bake for 1 1/2 hrs (or until noodles are tender)
Combine remaining ingredients (except for the cheese) and spread over the casserole. Top with the cheese and bake until cheese melts. Remove and let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

This is how my last batch turned out

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/72395_170947659582741_100000025240738_607607_5069837_n.jpg

On a side note, I fucking HATE facebooks picture viewer... Made linking the picture a pain in the ovaries.

[Josie]

facebooks picture viewer

f5 exits to normal picture viewing.

[Josie]

Mexican Lasagna!

That definitely sounds like it could give my lasagna some competition... hmm, I need to make mine soon and rival your pitchurs! muahaha :yociexp108:

[SlimSkeeter]

f5 exits to normal picture viewing.

Thanks you! So does right click, open link in new tab on the thumbnail.

[SittinGrumpy]

Mexican Lasagna

That looks A W E S O M E.

I even think I can make it healthier by making a few slight chances like ground lean turkey breast, fat free beans, fat free cheese, fat free salsa, fat free sour cream and whole wheat noodles.... I may really have to try that.

[SlimSkeeter]

^^ It's very much NOM.... I'm rather proud of it, especially that batch.

[Mamba]

Mmmmm this thread is making me hungry.

Josie, those spring roll thingers look awesome. Have to confess I've never made anything similar.... I should do though, as Chinese (style) food is a winner with moi!

Never heard of watermelon radishes?? Some kind of hybrid of radish? Am v. intrigued.

Skeeter, that lasagne definitely looks NOM.

I will have to make something and post up soon :D

[Toao]

Chinese (style) food

Those look more Vietnamese. I should know, I live next to the capital of Viet Nam.

Some of their food is excellent, they definitely have the best noodles.

[Josie]

Those look more Vietnamese. I should know, I live next to the capital of Viet Nam.

Some of their food is excellent, they definitely have the best noodles.

soft Thai summer rolls.

[Josie]

Josie, those spring roll thingers look awesome.

thanks!


f watermelon radishes?? Some kind of hybrid of radish? Am v. intrigued.

Honestly, I'm not really sure, but here's what google had to say about it: "A large round root vegetable related to the turnip and horseradish family, with a crisp texture and a mild to sweet peppery flavor."

They are soooo good and so cute!!

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_m00Skm4KF1M/TEsaeE57rTI/AAAAAAAAABg/VetVMm21KwE/S1600-R/130124.jpg

[SittinGrumpy]

Tonight's Dinner:

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

1 pound 96% lean ground beef
3.5 cups of diced tomatoes
3.5 cups of tomato sauce
1/2 cup onion
1/2 cup green pepper
1/2 mushrooms
1/4 teaspoon freshly minced garlic
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 tablespoons texas pete
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon oregano

Heat olive oil
Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, green pepper
Once onions are translucent, add ground beef
Cook until beef is done and strain

Add beef, texas pete, all dry seasonings, tomatoes and tomato sauce back to pan. Simmer on low/medium heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.


In the meantime, start your water for your noodles. I add 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil and salt to my water for 13.5 ounces of whole wheat noodles. I use thin noodles so I only boil 6 minutes.

Take 2 cups of noodles and top with 3/4 cup of sauce.

This is 13 Weight Watchers PointsPlus a little less if you use LEAN ground turkey breast

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2450&d=1299645408


For dessert tonight:

3 oz of Angelfood Cake
1/2 cup of fresh strawberries
1 tablespoon of fat free cool whip

WW PointsPlus 4

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2451&d=1299645408

[KommieKat]

Take 2 cups of noodles and top with 3/4 cup of sauce.



When you say "noodles" you mean Pasta, right?

I recommend you DO NOT strain nor rinse your pasta.
After the pasta has finished in a pot of salted boiling water, you should immediately put it into your sauce pan with the sauce and put one ladle of that salted boiled water into the sauce you just made.

Putting the sauce over your "noodles" is kind of an Americano thing.
The REAL DEAL is to add the pasta with the sauce and mix it up together in your sauce/fry pan................(I'm just trying to help out here).

Some Parmesan goes a long ways and not the stuff in that long green tower of a can stuff. Buy it in a block and grade it yourself.

[KommieKat]

the makings:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a328/Josiekittie/makings.jpg






Looks delicious!!! I have never used rice stick.


OK, ladies, I'm just trying to help out here, OK?

First, the package says Rice Sticks, but in actuality, they're Rice Noodles or Vermicelli. The Chinese characters say: Maifan....fan as in summer cool fan (not maifun).
I'm reading the Spring Roll Sheets and the red lettering on right side says it's made of "Rice paper".

I would not recommend rice with rice. You've already got the rice sheet with rice noodles inside, so I'd suggest one or the other.

Example:
Use the rice sheet and put in some boiled or steamed shrimp and sliced cucumber.
Add a sauce made with chili paste and fish sauce and vinegar.
If you use the Rice noodles, use the same ingredients minus the rice sheet
and make it into a noodle salad.

And for the record....um....well.....Thais don't use peanut sauce.
Malaysians and Indonesians are on that stuff like flies are to..... well, you know what I mean.

[Toao]

soft Thai summer rolls.

I just notced Josie, the wrappers are vietnamese. The radishes look interesting. The was the other thing too, Vietnamese use radishes a lot.

One thing all of em seem to use, along with everyone else is this

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_AyOrKLPlJyc/TMCdcLVnMZI/AAAAAAAABBE/xnlxvNDl0Ug/s1600/sriracha(3)%5B1%5D.jpg

It blends really well too.

[SittinGrumpy]

When you say "noodles" you mean Pasta, right?

Yes, pasta.
OK, ladies, I'm just trying to help out here, OK?

Starting out with a line line this puts people on the defensive. I am not, nor do I think the other "ladies" here are offended when you offer knowledge on things like this.

Anyhow, good information.
One thing all of em seem to use,

I love chili sauce of all kinds.

[SittinGrumpy]

Today's Breakfast:

Fruit, fruit and oh by the way fruit! Maybe it isn't exactly cooking BUT it does take prep.

1/2 cup of strawberries
1/4 cup of blueberries
2 small bananas

Slice the bananas and berries add the blueberries

I also had Arizona Sugar Free Green Tea

WW PointsPlus 0 so I still have all my points for lunch and supper.

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2452&d=1299690414

[Josie]

First, the package says Rice Sticks, but in actuality, they're Rice Noodles or Vermicelli.

She was simply calling it by how it was labeled. Yes, they're noodles, but it doesn't really matter what you call it.


I'm reading the Spring Roll Sheets and the red lettering on right side says it's made of "Rice paper".

Think Tapioca wrap. Ingredients: tapioca starch, water, salt.


I would not recommend rice with rice. You've already got the rice sheet with rice noodles inside, so I'd suggest one or the other.

It doesn't matter! Every single yummy Thai restaurant (yes, in the US) I've eaten at, makes them with the same basics: veggies, rice noodles, and a tapioca wrap.


Example: Use the rice sheet and put in some boiled or steamed shrimp and sliced cucumber.

Cucumber, yes. Shrimp, no. I fucking HATE them made with shrimp. It's gross. Not tasty, not enjoyable. Tofu is fine. Some grilled chicken.... NO shrimp.


you know what I mean.

Sure. But I'm still making my rolls the way my mouth appreciates. ;)

[KommieKat]

Yes, pasta.

Starting out with a line line this puts people on the defensive. I am not, nor do I think the other "ladies" here are offended when you offer knowledge on things like this.

Anyhow, good information.

I love chili sauce of all kinds.

Then it looks like you've got a problem if you find yourself on the defensive because you put yourself there, not I.
Too bad you find it uncomfortable being addressed as "ladies" because most ladies don't nor should they.

Every fucking time I mention something that is in MY area of specialty, Asia, I've got to put up with the Chink and Jap fucking comments from
you people and the "You think you know so much" and "You think you're better than everybody" from people, therefore I've got to walk on egg shells when giving advise, suggestions and corrections, therefore the subtle approach of "I'm just helping out here".
Try not to read anything more that what is there.
Kthxby.


Yes, they're noodles, but it doesn't really matter what you call it.

Yes, it does matter very much what you call it. A lime is not a lemon, rice noodles are not rice sticks.


Think Tapioca wrap.

This is NOT tapioca. It's not just a starch. It's a liquefied rice.



Shrimp, no. I fucking HATE them made with shrimp.

That's really too bad. Quite similar when listening to Asian people mentioning their disgust for cheese.

[Josie]

I've got to walk on egg shells


If anyone walks on egg shells around here, it surely isn't you. Or me.

:yociexpress01:


I get that you're all about doing shit the proper chink way.. however, I see items I like for my own purposes and I use them however I please. You'll never see a 'real' spring roll made like I made mine the other day. I like them, that's what matters.

[Josie]

haha, you is stupid. it's a tapioca wrap!

http://www.tastebook.com/recipes/1486110-Tapioca-Spring-roll

^ proof that OTHER ppl (not white josie) have made spring rolls with tapioca (not rice) wraps.

[KommieKat]

it's a tapioca wrap!



^ proof that OTHER ppl (not white josie) have made spring rolls with tapioca (not rice) wraps.

I'm not going to argue this with you.
The portion of the wrapper printed in Chinese, that you uploaded which I can read fluently, says RICE PAPER.

Enjoy your fake white honky rolls. Whatever.

[Gzus]

Whatever.
You said it.

[Josie]

printed in Chinese

the ingredients are printed in english.

[Gzus]

In the shape of their eyes

[SittinGrumpy]

Then it looks like you've got a problem if you find yourself on the defensive because you put yourself there, not I.
Too bad you find it uncomfortable being addressed as "ladies" because most ladies don't nor should they.

Wow. I did not attack you, in fact I thanked you for the information. I was not of the defensive, I said it is lines like that
OK, ladies, I'm just trying to help out here, OK? that put people on guard for you to start something and I am not uncomfortable being addressed as a lady, you addressed just the ladies, so I made sure I spoke for just the ladies.



Every fucking time I mention something that is in MY area of specialty, Asia, I've got to put up with the Chink and Jap fucking comments from
you people and the "You think you know so much" and "You think you're better than everybody" from people, therefore I've got to walk on egg shells when giving advise, suggestions and corrections, therefore the subtle approach of "I'm just helping out here".
Try not to read anything more that what is there.

I challenge you to go through all 2,000 of my post and find one time that I said something using the words jap or chink to insult you. If I have ever used those words it was only in retaliation for your giving me such a hard time about my heritage.

I do not believe for a second you walk on egg shells.

I have given you more rep since I have been back for the witty shit you sometimes say... I have my opinions of you and you have yours of me, how about getting off the giving me shit ban wagon and just pretend I am not here.

[KommieKat]

how about getting off the giving me shit ban wagon and just pretend I am not here.

How about we just................cook?

[Mamba]

^ Good suggestion. I don't see why everything has to turn into a freaking free-for-all to be honest.

I would like to post a nice picture of the dinner I am cooking tonight, but I have had the day from hell - so even though it might taste good, it won't win any points in the presentation arena.

So bollocks.!

[SittinGrumpy]

it won't win any points in the presentation arena.

My last meal didnt look great either but it tasted wonderful.... snap a pic and share it anyway :)

[SittinGrumpy]

Whatcha cooking Mamba? I am gonna try beef and broccoli over brown rice.

[Mamba]

Whatcha cooking Mamba? I am gonna try beef and broccoli over brown rice.

That sounds yummy. I'm going to make pasta, with chicken and bacon and red wine.

You know it's been "that kind of day" when I start putting alcohol in the food ;)

If I actually have any red wine left.... hmmmmmm... will have to check that out. If not I'll just make it with a tomato-based sauce.

Okay, I will snap a pic but it will be embarrassing. Hahaha.

[SittinGrumpy]

This is a Weight Watchers recipe so I just copied and pasted:

Ingredients

* 2 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch, divided
* 1/4 tsp table salt
* 3/4 pound(s) lean sirloin beef, trimmed, thinly sliced against the grain
* 2 tsp canola oil
* 1 cup(s) reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
* 5 cup(s) broccoli, florets (about a 12 oz bag)
* 1 Tbsp ginger root, fresh, minced
* 2 tsp minced garlic
* 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, or to taste
* 1/4 cup(s) low-sodium soy sauce
* 1/2 cup(s) water

Instructions

* On a plate, combine 2 tablespoons cornstarch and salt; add beef and toss to coat.

* Heat oil in a large nonstick wok or large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and stir-fry until lightly browned, about 4 minutes; transfer to a bowl with a slotted spoon.

* Add 1/2 cup broth to same pan; stir to loosen any bits on food on bottom of pan. Add broccoli; cover and cook, tossing occasionally and sprinkling with a tablespoon water if needed, until broccoli is almost crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Uncover pan and add ginger, garlic and red pepper flakes; stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.

* In a cup, stir together soy sauce, remaining 1/2 cup broth, remaining 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch and water until blended; stir into pan. Reduce heat to medium-low and bring to a simmer; simmer until slightly thickened, about 1 minute.

* Return beef and accumulated juices to pan; toss to coat. Serve. Yields about 1 1/4 cups per serving.


http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2454&d=1299794326

PointsPlusTM value | 5
Servings | 4
Preparation Time | 12 min
Cooking Time | 12 min
Level of Difficulty | Easy


It turned out pretty good, I thought it needed more broccoli, so made some extra.

[SittinGrumpy]

OH and I put it over brown rice YUMMY!

[Mamba]

Okaaaaaay. Here we go.

Recipe: (serves 4)

Heat olive oil in frying pan until hot
add chopped onion (1/2)
2 cloves chopped garlic
add 3 seasoned chicken breasts
cook until chicken is browned. Remove and cube.
Add 4 rashers of bacon to the hot frying pan
In the meantime, cook shell or twisty pasta for 9 mins (or whatever time specified on packet) separately with chicken stock cube in boiling water
add chicken back to pan with cooked bacon, pour in a carton of tomate frito (tomato based sauce)
add 2 glugs (very specific measuring unit) of good quality red wine
make up some chicken stock
add to sauce, stir everything together, add a pinch of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomato) and loads of thyme.

(Optional ingredients that I couldn't be bothered to get tonight: light cream, different fresh herbs etc)

Ta-dah.

STUPID INTERNET CONNECTION is not letting me upload pictures..... grrrrrrr.

[Mamba]

Double post = double fail.

I should just go to bed! :laugh:

[Mamba]

Will try with the image again tomorrow. At least I snapped the pic!

[CrAnIuM]

I should just go to bed!


Indeed.


Come here !!


































( pssst ... don't tell Absinthe )

[Absinthe]

Here is one of my favorite noodle... uhm pasta... recipes:

This is actually a Rachel Ray recipe...


Spaghetti with Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs


Ingredients:



1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
1/2 cup milk or water
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, 2 smashed and 1 chopped
Two 28-ounce cans crushed tomatoes
Salt
1 pound lean ground sirloin
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for serving
1 large egg
4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 20 (1/2-inch) cubes
1 pound spaghetti


Side note
This tastes great with garlic bread. Melt butter with chopped garlic and spread it on crusty Italian bread. Broil until golden brown.


Directions:



In a medium bowl, soak the bread crumbs in the milk.
In a large, wide saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic and cook until golden, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, season to taste with salt and let the sauce simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Add the beef, chopped garlic, parsley, Parmigiano-Reggiano, egg and 1 teaspoon of salt to the soaked bread crumbs and stir with a fork until combined. Place about 2 tablespoons of the mixture in your hand and press a mozzarella cube into the center. Shape the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Repeat with the remaining meat and mozzarella.
Stir the sauce and raise the heat to medium- low. Carefully place the meatballs in the sauce, submerging them completely. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook without stirring for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti, cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, and drain. Toss the spaghetti with the tomato sauce and meatballs, sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano and serve.


I made one small change: I bought the shredded mozzarella and added app. 4oz of it directly to the meat mixture. When cooking the meatballs the cheese will melt nicely into the sauce. Fantastic!!!



I do agree with not rinsing the pasta. This will remove the starch and the sauce will not "stick".

However, don't worry my American friends, topping your noodles with the sauce is also a German thing. ;-)

[SittinGrumpy]

Spaghetti with Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

That sounds fantastic!!!


So my dessert tonight was 1 cup of fat free ice cream (vanilla) with bananas, strawberries, blueberries with 1 tablespoon of fat free whip cream.

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2455&d=1299802861

[KommieKat]

However, don't worry my American friends, topping your noodles with the sauce is also a German thing. ;-)
You just HAD to throw that in there, didn't you.

I never said there was anything to worry about nor did I give that impression.
I gave her a better method that would improve her already delicious dish, like you would improve someone's baking techniques.
You end up mixing the sauce and pasta together anyways, so why not do it in the sauce pan, like Italians and most 5 star Michelin chiefs do?
Maybe because THEY know better?

I am assuming we can give advice and suggestions in this thread?

Oh, btw, two wrongs don't make a right.

[SittinGrumpy]

I do agree with not rinsing the pasta. This will remove the starch and the sauce will not "stick".

However, don't worry my American friends, topping your noodles with the sauce is also a German thing. ;-)


Putting the sauce over your "noodles" is kind of an Americano thing.
The REAL DEAL is to add the pasta with the sauce and mix it up together in your sauce/fry pan................(I'm just trying to help out here).

I do strain my noodles but I do not rinse them, I do not like the texture of noodles that are left in water.

I use to mix my sauce and noodles, and still would if it weren't for my eating style. It is almost impossible to measure points without measuring separately.

[Josie]

I use to mix my sauce and noodles,

I know a lot of people who do this and prefer it this way but I'm all about enjoying separate, rather than mixed, flavors. Drives the hub crazy :wink:

[Mamba]

Yay, finally able to post the image. Yes, it looks crap..... whatever!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/BritPrincess/IMGP0913.jpg

[Mamba]

That sounds fantastic!!!


So my dessert tonight was 1 cup of fat free ice cream (vanilla) with bananas, strawberries, blueberries with 1 tablespoon of fat free whip cream.

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2455&d=1299802861

I have a craving for icecream. I haven't had any since the summer.

[Mamba]

Tonight's meal

Chicken curry with spinach and chickpeas over brown rice.

Yeah!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/BritPrincess/002.jpg

[SittinGrumpy]

finally able to post the image


Chicken curry

Damn they look good. Thanks for playing :)

Can you give the recipe for the Chicken curry?

[Mamba]

Damn they look good. Thanks for playing :)

Can you give the recipe for the Chicken curry?

Thanks! I made more effort with the presentation on the second one :D

Okay recipe is completely adhoc, as I just throw things in:

Put water on for rice, add about 300g of brown rice, add chicken stock cube for flavour - cook

Meanwhile:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in frying pan, chop up half an onion, 1 clove of garlic. Add to pan.
Add 1 tbsp of cumin, 1 tsp of corriander and 2 tbsp of curry powder. Cut up 3 or 4 chicken breasts and add to pan, or just lay whole ontop of onion with spices and cook. (Can cut up later if preferred, as apparently makes the chicken more juicy..ehhhh only do this if I can be bothered.)
Turn over several times until nicely browned
Make up some chicken stock (300ml) and add it slowly, alternating with some tomato frito (I use a small carton) to the pan to make a nice sauce. Add more curry powder and chopped chilies if you like it reaaaaaally hot.
Rinse chickpeas (I hate the smell when they come out of the jar, but that's my preference! haha) add about half a jar (200g?) , and 4 handfuls of fresh spinach
stir until spinach has wilted, add cream or a dash of coconut milk to make it lighter and creamier.

And serve!

YUM-O.

[SpringChicken]

Man, I need to buy some curry powder. That looks delish.

[Josie]

Mamba, those both look super yummies !! :wink:

[KommieKat]

Man, I need to buy some curry powder. That looks delish.

If you can get a hold of this brand in your supermarket or local Asian store, you've got it easy.
This paste, veggies and your pick of meat/seafood and a can of coconut milk and you're home free.

Comes in green, yellow and red. Yellow with chicken. Green and red usually with seafood but no special rule to that.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a126/buddhaboyjp/064-a.jpg

[Mamba]

Aw, shucks thanks guys :)

I'm making egg n pasta salad tonight..... we'll see how that turns out....

I broke my nice big bowl though :/... so the presentation will look like ass.

[Mamba]

Ugh.. my camera batteries ran out. It looked okay, though. Better than I expected. :D

Anyone else post up in the meantime!

[SpringChicken]

If you can get a hold of this brand in your supermarket or local Asian store, you've got it easy.
This paste, veggies and your pick of meat/seafood and a can of coconut milk and you're home free.

Comes in green, yellow and red. Yellow with chicken. Green and red usually with seafood but no special rule to that.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a126/buddhaboyjp/064-a.jpg

My local store has a decent enough Asian selection (considering that I live in BFE, that is) but I don't think I've seen that. I'll have to check out the local Asian market. Thanks!

I made a super delicious strawberry pie. I thought about taking a pic... as I ate half the pie straight from the dish.

[Josie]

I made spaghetti last night. Forgot to take pictures or post.

-1 lb lean ground turkey
-Olive oil
-1 thingy organic beef broth
-5 little org potato thingies that look cute on the inside
-3 heads org broccoli (and their stalks) pureed in the blender with beef broth
-half org portabello mushroom pureed in blender with beef broth
-large can organic tomatoes
-1 can organic tomato paste
-jar Newman's Own org Italian sausage marinara sauce
-handful chopped org cilantro
-broken up angel hair pasta with fake butter (Earth Balance), onion, basil, and garlic
-seasonings: onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, cayenne
(I think that's it)

It was pretty good. I prefer all my veggies in big chunks running around the sauce... but I also want the brats to consume something green or two.

And we had organic fairtrade peppermint tea too !

:yociexp77:

[Mamba]

I made spaghetti last night. Forgot to take pictures or post.

-1 lb lean ground turkey
-Olive oil
-1 thingy organic beef broth
-5 little org potato thingies that look cute on the inside
-3 heads org broccoli (and their stalks) pureed in the blender with beef broth
-half org portabello mushroom pureed in blender with beef broth
-large can organic tomatoes
-1 can organic tomato paste
-jar Newman's Own org Italian sausage marinara sauce
-handful chopped org cilantro
-broken up angel hair pasta with fake butter (Earth Balance), onion, basil, and garlic
-seasonings: onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, cayenne
(I think that's it)

It was pretty good. I prefer all my veggies in big chunks running around the sauce... but I also want the brats to consume something green or two.

And we had organic fairtrade peppermint tea too !

:yociexp77:

Yummmm. That does sound delicious. I always put chunky vegetables in the food, and my little one has to eat it or she doesn't get anything else to eat. Picky eaters FTL.

[Josie]

my little one has to eat it or she doesn't get anything else to eat. Picky eaters FTL.

I had em pretty well trained for awhile... but then the husband deployed and I was cooking less often... training went OUT the window =/

[Mamba]

I had em pretty well trained for awhile... but then the husband deployed and I was cooking less often... training went OUT the window =/

There's absolutely nothing wrong with pureeing the veggies to make sure they get their veggie intake.. it's just the mothers who are like: nooo junior hates carrots and brocolli, oh in fact all vegetables - except potato, so I just give him burgers and fries and icecream.... he likes those the most and it's just less hassle, you know? Else all we hear all day is this... :yociexp53:

--------

Don't even get me started. :laluot_08:

[Josie]

nooo junior hates carrots and brocolli, oh in fact all vegetables - except potato, so I just give him burgers and fries and icecream


Teehee, I love cooking when these kinds of people are around. Parents get appalled. Kid usually eats at least a couple bites of vegetables... and my oldest comments something like "Gosh, why are you so picky? You must know Autumn. She's picky like you.. and whiny. Do you know Autumn?"

[SittinGrumpy]

Chicken Broccoli Garlic Pasta

8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
1/2 tbsp olive oil (7g)
6 cloves of garlic minced
8oz boneless skinless chicken breast uncooked and cut into chunks
1 tbsp whole wheat flour
1 cup fat free chicken broth
1/2 of a large bag frozen broccoli

Put a large pot of water on high and bring to a boil cook pasta according to package.

In a large skillet heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for a bit. Add the chicken and brown.

Once the chicken is done, add the tablespoon of flour. Stir to coat. Immediately add the chicken broth and frozen broccoli. Raise the heat to high and bring to a boil.

Drain and add pasta to the skillet once boiled. Toss to coat, cook a minute or two, remove from heat and serve!

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2465&d=1300748921


It wasn't the best thing I cook but it was good and very filling. Next time I think I will add a little more oil with the flour to give more of a sauce to the noodles.

1/4 of the recipe is 8 weight watchers pointsplus

[SpringChicken]

^^That looks and sounds delicious.

[Toao]

This may seem like a dumb question, but does anyone else cook for their dog?

Don't laugh, a lot of times, you can find meat that's cheaper than dog food.

[Mamba]

Chicken Broccoli Garlic Pasta


Wow, sounds yummy! I will have to try this.

[Mamba]

Last nights meal:

Chicken with white wine cream sauce over brown rice.

Ingredients:
4 boneless chicken breasts
1 c. chopped mushrooms (I always use portabello)
1 c. chopped onions
300/400ml. nata para cocinar (cooking cream)
1 cup white wine
1/2 c. plus 2 tbsp. flour
3 tsp. thyme
1/2 tsp. salt and dash pepper
2 tbsp. butter

Recipe:

Make seasoned flour: (1/2 cup flour, thyme, salt and pepper.) Dredge chicken in the flour. Brown lightly in hot frying pan in butter, add 1 tablespoon oil to prevent burning. Then add the mushrooms, onions and wine. Simmer covered until chicken is done, 20/25 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook brown rice in water flavoured with chicken stock cube.

Remove chicken from frying pan, leaving onion and mushrooms. Shake in 2 tablespoons flour and the cream (I used low fat cooking cream). Stir into the drippings in the frying pan. Flavor with thyme according to your taste. Cook until sauce thickens. Pour over chicken and serve.

And voila!

[Josie]

This thread is making me so very hungry. Mmm... I think I'm going to eventually try every recipe posted in it !!

[SittinGrumpy]

Chicken with white wine cream sauce over brown rice.

Looks damn good! I love your dishes too.

[Mamba]

Looks damn good! I love your dishes too.

Thank you! It was a bit "swimming" in sauce though. Haha. But yummylicious.

Tonight I made teryaki chicken noodle soup, I forgot to take a picture but it was good......!

You have to try this stuff:

1 tsp butter in med/large tall sided pan, add 1 chopped onion, and one clove of garlic (crushed with back of spoon then sliced finely) cook together until turns translucent
make up about 800ml chicken stock, add to pan
(add sliced ginger if you want at this point, but I didn't have any and stinky boyfriend couldn't find any at the store- sad lip*)
add 4 tsp of chinese five spice powder and a dash of soya and terayaki (sp) sauce
add 4 boneless chicken breasts to stock mixture and half cover with lid, leave over high heat for 15/20 minutes.
return to pan, chop up 1 red pepper, add to soup, add more stock if necessary.
When chicken is cooked, removed all of it and shred with a fork, return it to the pan.
add more soya sauce, add chinese noodles (half packet) (4/5 minutes cooking time), add half a can of sweet corn at this point
put the lid on and wait for noodles to cook.

AND SERVE!! (with more soya or terayaki sauce) So delicious. You have to try this!

[SittinGrumpy]

Last night I made banana ice cream.... don't panic, it is two ingredients:

2 bananas
Vanilla to taste... I just squited it in ... maybe a tablespoon

Cut the bananas into bite size pieces and freeze over night.

Place bananas in food processor, process until it is clumped up against the sides, with a spatula push it back to the blades and process again. I did this three times and it was done.

This is just like soft serve ice cream. You can add berries, chocolate whatever you like.

I ate it just like this and it is ZERO POINTS!!!


http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2466&d=1300766810

[SittinGrumpy]

For starters, tonights dinner was 4 oz of lamb and hubbys taters.

The lamb was rubbed with garlic perpper and olive oil and cooked on cast iron.

1lb potatoes
1/4 cup of fat free sour cream
tablespoon paprika
teaspoon of garlic
salt and pepper to taste

It was good, it was the first time I had lamb and hubby's taters are ALWAYS good!

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2468&d=1300836254

There was one other dish I have tried this week and I couldn't wait to share it. I LOVE LOVE LOVE these.

Beany Cheesy Cups

PER SERVING (1/3rd of recipe, 5 pieces): 121 calories, 3.5g fat, 332mg sodium, 17g carbs, 2g fiber, 1g sugars, 6g protein -- PointsPlus™ value 3*

Ingredients:
1/2 cup fat-free refried beans
2 wedges The Laughing Cow Light Creamy Swiss cheese
One 15-piece box frozen Athens Mini Fillo Shells
Spices: ground cumin, chili powder

Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Place shells on a baking sheet sprayed lightly with nonstick spray. Set aside.

In a small bowl, combine beans, cheese, 1/8 tsp. cumin, and 1/8 tsp. chili powder. Mix until completely smooth and blended.

Evenly distribute bean-cheese mixture among the shells. Bake in the oven until mixture is hot and shells are golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Allow to cool slightly, and then CHEW!

MAKES 3 SERVINGS
Hungry Girl (http://www.hungry-girl.com/weighin/show/1919)

I topped these with just a tad of ff sour cream and hot sauce. Fucking AWESOME!

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2473&d=1300847520

[KommieKat]

Tonight I made teryaki chicken noodle soup, I forgot to take a picture but it was good......!

Actually, there's not much 'teriyaki' about that. It's Tokyo style ramen.
Each region in Japan has it's own ramen which differs in the stock used.

North in Sapporo is Miso base, Tokyo is Soya base and where I was, in Kyushu (South) is pork stock base.

[Toao]

Last nights meal:

Chicken with white wine cream sauce over brown rice.

that recipe i8s definitely a keeper. It kind of reminds me of the campbell's mushroom chicken, without the whole trailerpark thing.

I made my dogs liver & rice the other day, which of course seemed nasty to everyone but them.
But there one thing I used to make my dog we he was weaning, and had to eat three meals a day that seemed edible. I used to make him lox & cream cheese omlettes.
I personally think it's still kind of gross, but my brother in law ate one and liked it.

[Mamba]

Last night I made banana ice cream.... don't panic, it is two ingredients:

2 bananas
Vanilla to taste... I just squited it in ... maybe a tablespoon

Cut the bananas into bite size pieces and freeze over night.

Place bananas in food processor, process until it is clumped up against the sides, with a spatula push it back to the blades and process again. I did this three times and it was done.

This is just like soft serve ice cream. You can add berries, chocolate whatever you like.

I ate it just like this and it is ZERO POINTS!!!


http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2466&d=1300766810

Ooooh that sounds good! I would be tempted to add frozen yoghurt or something to make it a tiny bit creamier. But I'd make sure it was low fat :D

[Mamba]

that recipe i8s definitely a keeper. It kind of reminds me of the campbell's mushroom chicken, without the whole trailerpark thing.

I made my dogs liver & rice the other day, which of course seemed nasty to everyone but them.
But there one thing I used to make my dog we he was weaning, and had to eat three meals a day that seemed edible. I used to make him lox & cream cheese omlettes.
I personally think it's still kind of gross, but my brother in law ate one and liked it.

Thanks. I don't have a dog, but I do have cats. I cook for them sometimes, or give them left over chicken etc. They eat pretty much anything... one of my cats is totally weird, and likes tomato based sauces and pasta.... she also eats toast... but only off my plate. If someone gives her a slice for herself, she's suddenly not interested at all.

[Toao]

I give my cats treats, but never do a meal like for the dogs. Even a can of tuna will make the cats stink.

My old cat will take stuff now, over the last few years. She was a kitten when we got her. a neighbor was a mover and found her locked in a closet, and out of the mother & the other kittens, she was the only one that lived. she barely had teeth, but was starving, so I went to the liquor store, and bought a couple cans of food. she was so starved she was shaking as she was eating. And for about 10 years after that, the only thing she would eat was that brand of cat food, in that same flavor.

[Josie]

likes tomato based sauces and pasta.... she also eats toast... but only off my plate. If someone gives her a slice for herself, she's suddenly not interested at all.

!!!! Rosie? Rosie lives with you?? No, just kidding.. my grumpy, old, matted kitty is like this. She steals marinara sauce any chance she gets. And buttered (goat butter) toast from the kids' table if they aren't looking.

My husband took pity on her and made a bowl of shredded grilled chicken for her. She didn't touch it... but she *did* steal some from the baby! :khi1b:

[SittinGrumpy]

I learned this at weight watchers and I have tried this a couple of times and it is damn good for a diet cake. You also can surf the web and find several variations of it.

Three ingredients:
Orange Cake Mix

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2474&d=1301116135

Orange Diet Soda

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2476&d=1301116135

Fat Free Cool Whip

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2475&d=1301116135


This is so very easy!!
Mix the cake mix and the diet soda until smooth.
Pour into a greased pan (whatever size you want) I did a 9 x 13
bake as directed

Ta-Da!

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2477&d=1301116135

[SittinGrumpy]

Mexican Lasagna!

I have the ingredients on my shopping list... I hope it is still good with my changes.

[KommieKat]

I learned this at weight watchers and I have tried this a couple of times and it is damn good for a diet cake. You also can surf the web and find several variations of it.

Three ingredients:
Orange Cake Mix

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2474&d=1301116135

Orange Diet Soda

Fat Free Cool Whip



You really love the Cool Whip, don't you.
Sorry, the idea of Diet Soda in a dessert is not very appealing, except maybe Vanilla ice cream in Root Beer.

Don't take this personal:
I think the idea of a diet is to eat less, exercise more.
Why not replace those diet desserts with in season fruits mixed with yogurt and honey?
I bet if you did that for a month, you'd see some weight melt off.

I wouldn't trust anything with "Less this and that" and "Diet this and that"

Lean meat
Veggies
Fruit
Water

[SittinGrumpy]

You really love the Cool Whip, don't you.

yes I do like cool whip, your point?


Sorry, the idea of Diet Soda in a dessert is not very appealing

Then don't try it.


Don't take this personal:

I am not on a diet, I am changing my lifestyle. To mean this means not being deprived of the things I like, when one feels as though they can't have the things they really want they fail.


I wouldn't trust anything with "Less this and that" and "Diet this and that"

This is your opinion. I am losing weight, slow and steady. I will continue to do what I am doing.

[KommieKat]

yes I do like cool whip, your point?

Fresh cream whipped to a frenzy with brown sugar.




Then don't try it.

No worries there.

Try baking the cake from scratch. You've done this before, yes?
Use Fresh orange juice instead.
Don't forget orange zest.
Use whipped fresh cream with brown sugar as a frosting.


This is your opinion.

It most goddamn is. Thank you for acknowledging that.

[SlimSkeeter]

Mexican Lasagna!
I have the ingredients on my shopping list... I hope it is still good with my changes.

I just made my version for a couple guests...The only complaint I got was one felt bloated from eating too much in one shot.

[Toao]

I have to suggest one of these. No other brand will do.

http://i51.tinypic.com/14u9mir.jpg

They can be a lot, but as you see, I got it on sale.

Besides the taste being superior, it doesn't dry out, so you can use it over a few days, for reubens, and of course, my corned beef hash that that kicks some serious ass.

All you do is simmer it, and put in potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.

Sam's Club & costco both have em.

[SittinGrumpy]

Mexican Lasagna!

Man.. this is fucking awesome. I made the changes I talked about with everything being fat free and it is the fucking bomb. I took a pic but becuase it is ff cheese, it didnt look at good as yours.

Thanks for sharing it!!!

If anyone wants to know the weight watchers info, just let me know.

[Negativecool]

I took a pic but becuase it is ff cheese
Face Fucking Cheese?

Gross.

[SittinGrumpy]

Face Fucking Cheese?

Gross.

Only you could turn fat free into face fucking.

[SlimSkeeter]

Man.. this is fucking awesome.

Yep! I just finished my batch last night. The company I had enjoyed it, stuffed themselves to bloating, and proceeded to complain about being full for about an hour after. I call that a success. I ended up (as I may have stated, I don't remember) doubling the "meat mixture" and putting extra salsa and sour cream on it. EPIC WIN.

[KommieKat]

Last nights Dessert: Apples cooked in red wine

Simple and good......
4 or 5 apples.......Fuji is best because harder
1 cup red wine
1/2 cup sugar....I use sugar cane
1 tbs of butter

Heat pan with butter. Add sliced apples (chunk slice) and cook about 3 mins
Add sugar and wine.
Simmer on high heat until apples are tender.
Wine will thicken into a sauce.
Serve with ice cream if you like. ( I used yogurt with honey on top)
If you don't add apples right away after peeling, you have to keep them in water with a squeeze of lemon juice to keep from browning.


Tonights dessert
Strawberries in cream
Nothing special about this but now import strawberry season

Fresh cream
Muscovado sugar
Strawberries

Whip fresh cream and muscovado sugar until your arm falls off.
Dip strawberries into cream and stuff your mouth.

[SittinGrumpy]

I am always looking for different ways to spice things and found this today, thought I would share:

Jazz Up Your Jars

Bored with the condiments in your refrigerator? Try our suggestions for spicing them up, and adding a little zing to your meals.

While fat is the secret to buttery croissants and rich sauces, it's the other stuff — herbs, spices and aromatics — that adds a distinctive kick to food. Cut out the fat and keep the flavor, and you will still have countless low-calorie options for creating mouthwatering meals.

Spices, herbs and aromatics — such as ginger, onions and garlic — are some of the easiest ways to punch up your food. Acids such as mustards, lemon/lime juice and wine also wake up the taste buds and are key to expanding your flavor base. Mix and match, and you'll have a large array of flavorful food accessories to choose from.

Sauce suggestions
At a loss? Here are some tasty suggestions. Some can be used as marinades, dips or sauces. Others are great as spice rubs. All are a cinch to make.

Tuscan Tang
Mix together 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon each Dijon mustard and minced garlic. This garlicky, tangy sauce makes a delicious marinade for chicken and red meat. Add a dollop to meats or steamed vegetables for extra flavor.

Double Pepper
Purée 1 roasted red pepper, a quarter of an onion and 1/4 teaspoon each red pepper flakes and salt. This mellow, spicy sauce is wonderful with fish and chicken.

Moroccan Spice
Mix 1 tablespoon each cumin and cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a pinch of cayenne. Rub on chicken, fish or meat before grilling.

Shortcut Savory
Mix 1 crushed bouillon cube with 2 teaspoons lemon juice; rub on fish or chicken before grilling.

Aromatic Herb
Mince equal parts of herbs (such as dill, basil, cilantro, oregano, tarragon, sage, thyme or rosemary) with aromatics (chives, leeks, shallots, onions). A squeeze of lemon or lime juice will brighten up the flavor. Or, add a dash of hot pepper sauce for extra spiciness. Sprinkle on meats or mix into vegetables.

My oh mayo!
There are tons of fat-free or low-fat condiments and dressings shelved in your supermarket or available when you're dining out. Some of our favorites include the fat-free Caesar and Italian dressings, which tend to be lower in fat and calories. But if the sauce selection doesn't grab you, make your own. It's easy and all-natural — no preservatives or gummy aftertaste.

Just spice up some low-fat mayo or plain yogurt with whatever is in your pantry. Spread it on sandwiches, grilled meats, fish, chicken or vegetables. Thin it out with water and — voila! — it becomes a healthier, but still tasty dressing. Try adding these to mayo or yogurt:

* Soy sauce and scallions
* Wasabi (Japanese horseradish)
* Saffron and garlic
* Roasted red pepper and parsley
* Cajun spice mix and lemon juice
* Capers and horseradish
* Mustard and Worcestershire sauce
* Basil and garlic
* Dill and tarragon (great with chicken!)
* Parmesan, extra-sharp cheddar, blue or feta cheese. These cheeses are very pungent so you need very little to spice up your food — about 1 teaspoon per 2 tablespoons of mayo or yogurt.

Article (http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=1&art_id=16151)

[Mamba]

Last night - Thai red curry.

I bought the paste, so I totally cheated - but wow it was yum.

Ingredients:

1 tin of coconut milk
1 packet of thai red curry paste
3 x chicken breast
rice
soya sauce
fish sauce
pinch of brown sugar
spinach
red pepper
1 lime
bunch of corriander

This is really easy. Heat 1 tbs olive oil in a frying pan, add half of the curry paste and scook for 3/5 minutes over med heat.
add half the tin of coconut milk and cook for a further 5 minutes
chop up the chicken breast and add to the sauce, cook for 10 minutes.
add soya sayce and fish sauce to taste, add a pinch of sugar also
Meanwhile, cook some rice with a chicken stock cube (not the way the thai's do it probably, but whatever)
add the rest of the tin of coconut milk, then chop up a red pepper and add to the pan. Cook until soft.
add a few handfuls of spinach, cook until wilted. Serve with rice, chopped coriander and a wedge of lime.

[KommieKat]

scook

I'm sorry, but what do you mean by this? Is this rubbing the fry pan on your ass first before putting it to the stove?

Buying the paste is not really cheating. Not even every Thai household makes it from scratch when it's just as easy to buy the paste, though in their case, it would be fresher.
I personally recommend leaving out the sugar.
Lastly, should be easy to get Thai rice, oui?

I also recommend yellow curry for chicken
Red curry for seafood like shrimp
Green for fish or chicken.................but that is not a rule set in law.

[Mamba]

I'm sorry, but what do you mean by this? Is this rubbing the fry pan on your ass first before putting it to the stove?

Yes, rub it on your ass. But after you put in on the stove, please. (I meant cook)



I personally recommend leaving out the sugar.

I did it to off-set all the salt, fish sauce, soya sauce - can get a bit too sour.


Lastly, should be easy to get Thai rice, oui?

Yes, but I didn't have any.....


I also recommend yellow curry for chicken
Red curry for seafood like shrimp Green for fish or chicken.................but that is not a rule set in law.

Will have to try it with yellow and also will have to try red with shrimp.

I'm also going to try yellow with shrimp. Just 'cause.

Green is pretty good also. I made that for my boyfriend's birthday once.. with potato. Was reaaaaally good.

[KommieKat]

Yes, but I didn't have any.....

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a126/buddhaboyjp/NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO-OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.jpg

[KommieKat]

Tropical Fruit Salad

Super duper easy.....

If you can get them, use tropical fruits like:
Papaya
Mango
Banana

Cut into bite size.

I add Apples to give the crunch that is missing from the softer fruits.

In metal bowl:
Pour in splash of Olive oil (you don't want to drown your fruits. You want them to ice skate.)
Juice from half a lemon
Dash of Honey

Mix liquids in the bowl then throw in your fruits and mix evenly with a spoon.............VIOLA!
Don't go too heavy with the olive oil.

If you want to make it a dessert.........whip up fresh cream with finely grounded brown cane sugar. Pour over the fruit after mixing with dressing.....VIOLA!

Soon, you too can have the body like the little Asian girl in my sig.

[Mamba]

The other night, I made sweet chilli chicken and noodles for guests. Yes, I actually entertained in God knows how long (my boyfriend is not such a social creature as I)

En fin!

I didn't take any pics but the recipes is as follows:

Sweet Chilli Chicken with ginger and noodles.

chop up 4/5 chicken breasts and marinade for half an hour in the fridge in a mix of sweet chilli sauce, lime juice and light soya sauce.
Chop up 1 green or red pepper and put aside
grate some ginger.
Heat some oil in a large frying pan
whack in the chicken and cook until white, add chopped up green/red pepper and ginger
add more soya sauce if desired
cook a little more
In a separate large pan, boil some water - whack in fine egg noodles (4 mins to cook).
When noodles are cooked, mix everything together and voila!
Serve with lime wedges for each person (serves 3 generously)

In the meantime, I also prepared the easiest cobbler in zee world, which cooked while we drank red wine and ate the first course.

Cobbler:

Heat butter in large (not-too-shallow) baking dish in the oven until melted
meanwhile, mix together 1 cup of flour, 1 and a half sachets of baking powder and 3/4 cup white sugar
add milk until it forms a batter. stir, stir, stir
wash and prep half a punnet of strawberries, chop into bite size pieces.
take baking dish out of oven, butter should be completely melted and hot.
Pour over the batter, and then sprinkle over the strawberries, distributing evenly.
Put in the oven, and cook for half an hour - 40 mins depending on how fast your oven is... and serve hot with vanilla ice cream.

YUMMMMMMMMMM!

[chokeonthis]

Nice looking cobbler Mamba. The berry recipe looks good, too. :D

If anyone's looking into low carb, check out this winner. It's really easy to make, and is sans extremely bad stuff.

http://www.genaw.com/lowcarb/food_photos/tuna_muffins.jpg (http://www.genaw.com/lowcarb/food_photos/tuna_muffins_zoom.jpg)

Tuna or Salmon Muffins

2 6-ounce cans tuna or salmon, drained well
2 eggs
1/4 cup celery, chopped fine, 1 ounce
2 tablespoons onion, chopped fine, 1/2 ounce
1/4 cup green pepper, minced, 1 ounce
2 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pinch Old Bay seasoning
Mix all of the ingredients and spoon into 6 well-greased muffin cups. Bake at 350º for 30 minutes until puffed, set and lightly browned around the edges.
Makes 6 servings
Can be frozen


Per Serving: 109 Calories; 8g Fat; 12g Protein; 1g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 1g Net Carbs

Side-note: You really, really have to grease the muffin tins well. If the muffins stick, it's a pain in the ass to get them right again. Cheers - let me know if you try 'em out. Also, all you probably have to do for the topping depicted is use some sour cream and dill, or something fairly similar. I haven't made it that way yet. - they're too good without the extra.

[KommieKat]

En fin!
voila!
zee
YUMMMMMMMMMM!

You sure are one international chica!
Does that mean you get around a lot?

[Mamba]

You sure are one international chica!
Does that mean you get around a lot?

You bore me. I like languages.

Comment on the food/recipes or don't bother.

[KommieKat]

You bore me. I like languages.

Comment on the food/recipes or don't bother.

Glad to know I'm not here to please you because I'm not, Konojo.

[Mamba]

If anyone's looking into low carb, check out this winner.

Yum! Those look good. Will have to try them.

What is Old Bay seasoning?

[chokeonthis]

Yum! Those look good. Will have to try them.

What is Old Bay seasoning?

It's in the spice section - usually used to flavor seafood. Hence the addition to this recipe. You could easily replace the spices to taste if you don't want the sodium content to be very much of a factor. Try it with fresh garlic, a bit of dill, and a dash of parsley or cilantro might work. You could also replace with seasoned or celery salt if you can't get Old Bay.

[CrAnIuM]

It's in the spice section - usually used to flavor seafood. Hence the addition to this recipe. You could easily replace the spices to taste if you don't want the sodium content to be very much of a factor. Try it with fresh garlic, a bit of dill, and a dash of parsley or cilantro might work. You could also replace with seasoned or celery salt if you can't get Old Bay.


She's a dirty heathen foreigner, they don't have civilized spice sections. ( or indoor plumbing)

[Mamba]

She's a dirty heathen foreigner, they don't have civilized spice sections. ( or indoor plumbing)

Yes we do! To both.... :P

However, I have never heard of Old Bay... we have stuff like hierbas provencales and azafrán.


Try it with fresh garlic, a bit of dill, and a dash of parsley or cilantro might work. You could also replace with seasoned or celery salt if you can't get Old Bay.

Thanks! Will do :)

[KommieKat]

they don't have civilized spice sections.

Sand particles and pebbles used as spices don't count as being civilized.

[Mamba]

Sand particles and pebbles used as spices don't count as being civilized.

http://img3.lln.crunchyroll.com/i/spire2/02012008/e/b/d/f/ebdf77a2d10240_full.jpg

[chokeonthis]

http://img3.lln.crunchyroll.com/i/spire2/02012008/e/b/d/f/ebdf77a2d10240_full.jpg

Perfect.

[KommieKat]

I thought it quite fitting and accurate for his spice rack.

And come to think, we're here for your pleasure.

[SittinGrumpy]

Tuna or Salmon Muffins

Which do you like best Tuna or Salmon for these?

[chokeonthis]

Which do you like best Tuna or Salmon for these?

Tuna's easier to work with, but just blend the salmon. It tastes better, but both are awesome. ^_^

[Absinthe]

Brownie Covered Oreos (http://thetallgrlcooks.blogspot.com/2011/04/brownie-covered-oreos.html)

I made two versions - a few with regular Oreos and a few with Mint Oreos. The minty version turned out better than expected.

[Mamba]

Brownie Covered Oreos (http://thetallgrlcooks.blogspot.com/2011/04/brownie-covered-oreos.html)

I made two versions - a few with regular Oreos and a few with Mint Oreos. The minty version turned out better than expected.

Oh wow, they doooo look good. I never thought about combining these two food stuffs. Amazing what people can come up with!

[SittinGrumpy]

Brownie Covered Oreos

These look great but are they on the diet?

[Mamba]

These look great but are they on the diet?

I don't think they are on a diet. They look too fat and pleased about themselves. Naughty Oreo Brownies!

[CrAnIuM]

They look too fat


I was like .. YOU CALLIN ME FAT? but then I was all like .. naw.. hell naw.

[Absinthe]

These look great but are they on the diet?

They are... if you eat only one... or two.
I did use low fat oreos. Does that help??

You could also see it as diet food for the soul.

[KommieKat]

I did use low fat oreos. Does that help??

Low fat Oreos? What the hell is that? An Oreo without the white middle and the two black biscuits outside?
Air? You people are caught up on Oreos marketing campaign of buying and eating air??

[Mamba]

I was like .. YOU CALLIN ME FAT? but then I was all like .. naw.. hell naw.

I no see you!


They are... if you eat only one... or two.
I did use low fat oreos. Does that help??

You could also see it as diet food for the soul.

Yay - diet food for the soul. At least one day a week. The rest you can have salads and soups and noooo unrefined flours/sugars etc.


Low fat Oreos? What the hell is that? An Oreo without the white middle and the two black biscuits outside?
Air? You people are caught up on Oreos marketing campaign of buying and eating air??

You really shouldn't say "you people" you know. How would you like it if they said that to you? Tsk.

[Mamba]

Last night I made a variation on my teriyaki (sorry Kommie, NOT teriyaki) chicken noodle soup.

It was like this:

Heat a spoonful of butter in a large pan until melted.
chop up 1 whole (medium sized) onion and add to pan, cook until translucent
meanwhile make chicken stock 600ml(ish)
add stock to pan with onion when soft, chop up some ginger (1 small piece, grated) and add too.
add 3/4 chicken breasts to stock and 2 tsp of chinese 5 spice- put the lid on and bring to the boil - simmer for 15 mins.
Add several brocolli florets and cook until slightly soft but still quite crunchy
add nests of egg noodles (3 or 4 depending on appetite!) and cook for however long it says on the packet. (mine are usually 6 mins)
pour in some sweet chilli sauce and scatter with sesame seeds.

SERVE HOT! Yum.

[SittinGrumpy]

I haven't been cooking a lot lately, which explains the 4 lbs I gained back...ups and downs are part of my journey.

Low Fat Brownies

1 box of low fat brownie mix
1 can of 100% PURE pumpkin (NOT PIE MIX)
Spray oil

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2527&d=1305140758

Combined mix and pumpkin
Spray pan
Pour mixture into pan
Bake 350 for 40 minutes

I hate this picture, I am still getting use to my phone camera, the table it is sitting on is grey...

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2528&d=1305141021

[SittinGrumpy]

Last night I made a variation on my teriyaki (sorry Kommie, NOT teriyaki) chicken noodle soup.


This sounds really good. You have really introduced me to somethings that I have never heard of, like nest of egg noodles.

[Absinthe]

Combined mix and pumpkin

So you don't prepare the brownie mix like the directions on the box say (eggs, oil, water)?

[SittinGrumpy]

So you don't prepare the brownie mix like the directions on the box say (eggs, oil, water)?

Nope, the pumpkin replaces all of that.

[CrAnIuM]

pumpkin


Like it did in many Pow camps.

[Mamba]

This sounds really good. You have really introduced me to somethings that I have never heard of, like nest of egg noodles.

Hehe, you've never seen them? You buy them like that, in a box - reaallly good, and as I said, take about 6 minutes to cook. Or you can buy the other egg noodles which are fine and you just add to boiling water and cover, cooking in the boiling water with a lid on for 2 minutes. I wanted to change it up a bit so I used wide egg noodles.

[Mamba]

Aw, poor cooking thread has been neglected.

*strokes thread lovingly*

I have been very naughty and eaten pizza and fried food at least 4 times this week (shock!)

Tonight -for my sins - I am making cauliflower and chickpea curry with basmati rice. This is yuuuummy.

Ingredients:
(Serves four to six)

1 whole cauliflower

2/3 medium onions

4 cloves of garlic

½ tsp chopped fresh ginger

2 tsp ground coriander

½ tsp ground chilli

4 curry leaves

2 tsp garam masala

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tin of chopped tomatoes

1 tin of chickpeas, drained

2 tbsp of chopped fresh coriander

Recipe below:

Remove the stalks from the cauliflower and cut into large florets. In a pan of boiling vegetable stock add the cauliflower and cook for five minutes. When ready, drain from the stock and place back in the pan. Cover so it stays warm.

While the cauliflower is cooking, cut the onions into small pieces. Squash the garlic with the back of a knife to make it easier to peel. Chop until nice and fine.

In a pan, add half spoonful of butter, plus the onion, garlic and ginger, and sauté until golden brown.

In the same pan, add the dried spices and cook for a further five minutes.

Add the tin of tomatoes and chickpeas and stir well. Then add the cooked cauliflower. Top up with 100ml of cold water and bring to a simmer for five to 10 minutes until the cauliflower is cooked.

Finish by adding the chopped coriander. Serve on a warm plate with steamed basmati rice.

YUM!


(When I get some batteries for the camera I will be back posting pics!)

[Deadly_Toxin]

I was most definitely one of those picky kids. But my pickyness wasn't a "Idunnwanna eat veggies" thing. It was a fear of processed meats, seafood and pretty well all condiments. I despised ketchup. Anyway, my point being that I am still extremely picky - I still have a lot of the same adversions to food as I do now (though now I will eat hamburgers, and sometimes I'll even get cheese on em!) but some of these recipes I think I'll actually try. Though I'll definitely have to fatten them up a lil bit; I refuse to eat anything "fat free" and I despise anything labelled "diet". Mostly if it has aspartame in it. Disgusting.


Last nights Dessert: Apples cooked in red wine

Simple and good......
4 or 5 apples.......Fuji is best because harder
1 cup red wine
1/2 cup sugar....I use sugar cane
1 tbs of butter

Heat pan with butter. Add sliced apples (chunk slice) and cook about 3 mins
Add sugar and wine.
Simmer on high heat until apples are tender.
Wine will thicken into a sauce.
Serve with ice cream if you like. ( I used yogurt with honey on top)
If you don't add apples right away after peeling, you have to keep them in water with a squeeze of lemon juice to keep from browning.


And this sounds sooooooo delicious! I hate cooking but I will make a point of making this for sure!

[SittinGrumpy]

Aw, poor cooking thread has been neglected.


I haven't done a lot of cooking lately myself. I did, however, can 7 quarts of green beans last night from my grandma's garden... I am very happy with them, its the first time I canned all by myself!!! I will post a pic when I get home.

[KommieKat]

This is so super duper easy, you'll ask yourself "why didn't I do this before?".

Homemade Ricotta Cheese

Ingrediants:
Heavy milk
Heavy Cream (Fresh cream)
Lemon or buttermilk

Tools:
Sieve
Cheese cloth

The how to is here:
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Fresh-Homemade-Ricotta-234282

Keep in mind, after a short boil, reduce the heat and then add the lemon juice.
Keep stirring. Curdles do not have to be gigantic sizes, so you're cheese is going to be creamy but somewhat firm. A bit like tofu but much softer and creamier.

It's very fast to make and can be added to pasta dishes or eaten as they do in Italy, for breakfast.

Here's an easy pasta recipe for the Ricotta:
Penne with Ricotta and Asparagus
http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/penne_with_ricotta_and_asparagus/

[KommieKat]

And while we are at it...

Homemade Gnocchi

This was not only the first time to make it, but to eat it as well.

Keep in mind, the Gnocchi will be soft. I mixed in my Ricotta to give that extra cream taste.
Use a tomato sauce or use a Gorgonzola cheese with fresh cream as a sauce. Other soft cheeses can be used as well (this sauce is too simple to make).

Recipe is here:
http://foodnouveau.com/2010/10/09/italy/how-to-make-gnocchi-an-illustrated-step-by-step-recipe/

This is much easier than it looks. Don't need to knead your dough so long. Be sure to refrigerate it an hour or more to solidify your gnocchi a bit.


Keep in mind, the Gnocchi will float to the top of the boiling water when it is ready.
Strain it with the spoon that has the holes in it and plate it up hot, or throw it into a pan with the Gorgonzola cheese sauce or tomato sauce. Be sure to add the cream to that cheese to soften it up or use the Ricotta you just made or even milk.

Buon Appetito!

[SittinGrumpy]

I didn't take a picture but I thought it was too good not to post.

1 whole chicken
Potatoes
Olive oil
Salt and Pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees

Start by washing the potatoes (I did them unpeeled) and cutting them into quarters, then used them to cover the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking dish.

I washed and towel dried the chicken, the drying is very important

Cover the chicken in olive oil and place it on top of the potatoes. I have read many things about if a chicken should be breast up or not, I did this one breast up.

Place it in the oven and reduce heat to 400 degrees.

Bake 1 hour or until chicken is 165 degrees at thickest point.

The skin on this thing was perfect, the chicken was delicious.

[Mamba]

And while we are at it...

Homemade Gnocchi

Buon Appetito!

Urk. I made homemade gnocchi once - and safe to say I won't be making it again. I wrote a piece about it I was gonna add to my blog, and now I can't find that...... but yeah. No bueno.

I'm making spaghetti with tomato, chill and tuna tonight - yep I am being lazy. But sounds really good! as pasta = WIN everytime with me.


350g spaghetti
1 small red onion or ½ a medium one
500g fresh tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 red chilli
140g tin tuna in olive oil or water, drained


Cook the spaghetti in plenty of boiling water according to pack instructions. Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and tomatoes and put in a large pan with the oil. Halve, deseed and finely chop the chilli, then add to the pan. Gently heat through for a few mins, stirring well.

Drain the pasta and add to the sauce, then break up the tuna and add to the pan. Season if you like, then toss well and serve.

[Mamba]

I have read many things about if a chicken should be breast up or not, I did this one breast up.



I alway turn my chicken over halfway through cooking to cook the underside - then turn back rightway up to crisp up.

I do this with turkey as well--- and also baste every half an hour (or when I remember) keeps the bird nice and succulent. Yummers.

[Dirty Hippie]

I'm making spaghetti with tomato, chill and tuna tonight - yep I am being lazy. But sounds really good! as pasta = WIN everytime with me.

I have made countless amazing meals using a package of ramen noodles as the base. Lots of veggies and tomatoes, then throw the seasoning packet in and toss with the cooked noodles. You can even make desserts out of ramen with chocolate sauce, coconut, etc. (without the seasoning packet of course). It's such a versatile food.

[Mamba]

You can even make desserts out of ramen with chocolate sauce, coconut, etc.

No shit! How does that work? You have a recipe?

[Dirty Hippie]

I hardly ever use recipes, I just throw stuff together and taste as I go. When I made it I barely cooked the ramen so they were pliable but still kinda crunchy then drained it, added in some Hershey's syrup, some shredded coconut and some chopped walnuts.

I found this site, there's a couple desserts on there near the middle of the page. http://pattyinglishms.hubpages.com/hub/Ramen-Noodle-Miracles

[Mamba]

I hardly ever use recipes, I just throw stuff together and taste as I go. When I made it I barely cooked the ramen so they were pliable but still kinda crunchy then drained it, added in some Hershey's syrup, some shredded coconut and some chopped walnuts.

I found this site, there's a couple desserts on there near the middle of the page. http://pattyinglishms.hubpages.com/hub/Ramen-Noodle-Miracles

That's crazy. Noodles + sweet makes my head go funny. I will have to try this just to say I have done it. Ha.

[Bunnee]

^^ My mum used to make this thing called "spiders" out of ramen.

Uncooked ramen crushed up into a bowl.. add melted chocolate and mixed chopped nuts, stir and spoon into cupcake papers. Set in fridge.

So yummy!

[CrAnIuM]

haha Look at this!! http://veryculinary.com/2011/10/27/threaded-spaghetti-hot-dog-bites/

Absinthe and I saw this the other day and thought it was the coolest thing ever !!

[Mamba]

haha Look at this!! http://veryculinary.com/2011/10/27/threaded-spaghetti-hot-dog-bites/

Absinthe and I saw this the other day and thought it was the coolest thing ever !!

THING PASTA!!

http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film2/DVDReviews41/the%20thing%20blu-ray/large/large%20the%20thing%20blu-rayx2.jpg

[Bunnee]

haha Look at this!! http://veryculinary.com/2011/10/27/threaded-spaghetti-hot-dog-bites/

Absinthe and I saw this the other day and thought it was the coolest thing ever !!

OMG! Must make for kidlets!

Do you think it would work for meatballs too, or would they just fall apart?

[Zeabot]

Do you think it would work for meatballs too, or would they just fall apart?
I think they would fall apart. And I will, too, make these for my little munchkin.

[Mamba]

They look too much like tentacles to me....... *shrug*

Enjoy! :yociexpress01:

[Bunnee]

I'm gonna try it with meatballs and let you know. Just because I find the hotdog thing slightly unappealing. it looks awesome.. but I wouldn't eat it, because I dont like hotdogs..or sausages.

[CrAnIuM]

I dont like hotdogs..or sausages.


Freak !

[Firestorm]

meatballs too

I'm going to try it both ways. My 7 year old is in the "picky" stage, so meal time stage craft is becoming important. Thankfully she still loves raviolli :)

[Mamba]

I lurves me some sausage.

Yes, I am aware of how that sounded.

But you just can't beat some English sausage.... yum. The Spanish have no idea about real sausage. They think "chorizo" is an acceptable substitute. I beg to differ.

[Zeabot]

But you just can't beat some English sausage
I think Neg just jizzed his pants.




Thankfully she still loves raviolli
Yeah, my daughter is definitely a ravioli freak. I'm just tired of giving her the same foods every week.

[Firestorm]

Yeah, my daughter is definitely a ravioli freak. I'm just tired of giving her the same foods every week

Try letting her make them. The dough is easy, she can pick and choose different things to put in them, etc. Worked with my picky brat.

[KommieKat]

English sausage.

Every tried French Blood sausage?

[Mamba]

Every tried French Blood sausage?

Is this something rude, or do you mean like morcilla?

[CrAnIuM]

Is this something rude


http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-blood-sausage.htm

[Mamba]

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-blood-sausage.htm


Blood sausage is made in a variety of countries all over the world, and goes by a number of names including blutwurst (Germany), Boudin Noir (France), and Morcilla (Spain).

Thanks!

[CrAnIuM]

Thanks!

Yup.

I've had it on several occasions while I was in Europe.

Had it while I was cross attached to various NATA countries. Germany, England .. etc. Did not care for it as a personal choice but ate it anyway as not to offend my hosts.

[Mamba]

Yup.

I've had it on several occasions while I was in Europe.

Had it while I was cross attached to various NATA countries. Germany, England .. etc. Did not care for it as a personal choice but ate it anyway as not to offend my hosts.

Yeah, I'm not a fan of it here- but Argentina does the best ever... that is a must try. It's kinda nutty. Really good.

[Mamba]

Tonight's meal. - very quick.

Stirfried vegetables with pasta and peanut sauce.

Sounds weird - but it is super delicioso.

http://swollencranium.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=3091&stc=1&d=1328645322

[Mamba]

So good I had to post it twice!

[Deadly_Toxin]

Try letting her make them. The dough is easy, she can pick and choose different things to put in them, etc. Worked with my picky brat.

I was a ridiculously picky kid growing up. To the point that when my parents did the 'you'll sit at the table until you eat it thing' I'd sit there for hours, and when they did the 'if you don't eat it, then you don't get anything later' thing, I'd starve. ... Did I mention I was stubborn?

But letting me help make stuff actually did help. Part of it was because I had fun helping cook, and so eating what we made was more fun. Also because getting to put in ingredients that I knew I liked, or deemed safe, made the finished product more appetizing to me.

Yep!

[Mamba]

Sooooo I bought fresh artichokes.

Never cooked these things before. They look weird/pretty.

I've been looking up artichoke recipes, seems like a lot of hassle. Oh well, since I'm on holiday at the moment I have lots of free time!

[Dirty Hippie]

Artichokes take forever to eat, you pretty much need a group of 4 for one of them unless you want to sit there all night.