Mexican Pizza

My son will not let his older sisters kiss him. He will accept kisses from his Dad. He will let me kiss him. He will even reluctantly kiss me good bye in front of his friends at school. Noted, I did say reluctantly. When I made this Mexican pizza, his sister shared some of her pizza with him. He really liked it a lot. He still wouldn't kiss her. Don't worry. His sister's will kiss his cheek after he goes to sleep. Then they tell him the next day.

Mexican Pizza
1 lb. ground beef
1/2 medium onion, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
2 clove garlic, minced
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 Tbsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup water
1 (15 oz) can refried beans
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
8 (9 inch) flour tortillas
1/2 cup salsa
2 green onions, chopped
2 roma tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup black olives, sliced

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Coat two pie pans with cooking spray and set aside.
3. In a skillet, brown the meat over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the onion, jalapeno pepper, and garlic cloves to the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes.
5. Season the meat with the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Add the 1/2 cup water and combine well. Cook for 2 minutes.
7. Place a tortilla in the middle of the pie pan. Cover the tortilla with refried beans.
8. Spread 1/4 of the seasoned meat over the tortilla.
9. Top the seasoned meat with a little cheese.
10. Cover the cheese and seasoned meat with another tortilla.
11. Bake the Mexican pizza for 10 minutes.
12. Remove from the oven and top the tortilla with your desired toppings: additional cheese, salsa, tomatoes, green onions, and olives. 
13. Bake the Mexican pizza for another 5 to 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
14. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Recipe adapted from Trader Joe's Recipes.

One year ago..........................I made Banana Cupcakes.

Did you already know............
-The Trader Joe stores began as Pronto Markets in 1958.
-In 1968, Pronto Markets changed their name to Trader Joe's.
-Trader Joe's are named after the founder Joe Coulombe.

Blueberry Cheesecake

Cheesecake and I are not friends. I hate how good it taste. I hate that it comes in a variety of wonderful flavors. I hate to share my cheesecake. However, I will be your best friend if you share your cheesecake with me until it is gone.

New York Style Cheesecake with a Blueberry topping
Crust:
8 oz. vanilla wafer cookies (about 2/3 of the box)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
8 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Directions:

1. In a food processor, finely ground the vanilla wafer cookies.
2. Add the sugar and salt. Pulse a couple of times.
3. Add the melted butter and mix together.
4. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a buttered 9 1/2 inch Springform pan. Set aside.

Cheesecake filling:
5 (8 oz.) packages of cream cheese, softened
2 cups sugar
3 Tbsp all purpose flour
1/2 tsp vanilla
5 large eggs
2 egg yolks

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 500 degrees.
2. On the outside bottom of the Springform pan, cover the bottom and half way up the sides with aluminum foil so no water can enter the pan.
3. Place the Springform pan in the bottom of an oven safe roasting pan.  (So, the Springform pan is sitting inside the roasting pan and is ready for a water bath.)
4. In an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese for about 3 minutes until smooth.
5. Add the sugar and flour and cream for about 5 minutes until smooth.
6. Add the vanilla and mix for about a minute.
7. On low speed, add the eggs one at a time. Scrap down the bowl before adding the next egg. 
8. Add the egg yolks one at a time. Scrap down the bowl after each addition.
9. Pour the filling on top of the cookie crust inside the Springform pan.
10. Boil some water and carefully pour the hot water into the oven safe pan so the outside of the Springpan is sitting in a water bath. Only fill the roasting pan with water half way up the side of the Springform pan. Make sure no water spills onto the creamcheese filling. (This will help prevent the top of the cheesecake from cracking. I have never had water leak into the base of my cheescake yet since I lined it with the aluminum foil. Please see youtube for some examples of a water bath if desired.)
11. Bake the cheesecake for about 10 minutes. The top of the cheesecake should be puffed and golden brown.
12. Reduce the temperature to 250 degrees and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour. The cake should be mostly firm with the center slightly wobbly if the pan is shaken gently.
13. Very carefully, remove the pan from the oven and run a knife on the outside edge of the cheesecake to loosen it. 
14. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the Springform pan.
15. Chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours. Make sure to loosely cover the cheesecake without allowing the plastic wrap to touch the top.

Blueberry topping:
1 (15 oz.) package of frozen wild blueberries
1 lemon zested and juiced
1/4 cup of sugar
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce to low and simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Allow to completely cool before spooning the mixture on top of the cheesecake.

The cheesecake recipe is adapted from Smittenkitchen. The blueberry topping is adapted from Tyler Florence. 

One year ago.............................I made Stove Top Mac and Cheese.

Can I just eat it now?

Did you already know...............

-Cheesecake has been around since ancient Greece.

-It is believed that cheesecake was served to the Olympians during the first Olympic games.

-The Romans adapted their own version of cheesecake after conquering Greece.

No Knead Bread

Have you ever read The Story of the Little Red Hen? When I cook, sometimes I feel like the little red hen. Who will help me make supper? Any volunteers? Who will help me clean up? Any volunteers? Sometimes it is better to delegate. I will admit my little ones help more in the kitchen than my oldest. Since I think it is a great skill to know, I will ask for their help. They do like to help cook so it is easy. So, I asked who wants to help me make some bread. My youngest daughter volunteered. I found this recipe awhile ago on Steamy Kitchen but just hadn't made it. She has great instructions on her blog with her four year old son demonstrating how to make this bread. She even has her son kiss the bowl good night. Well, I really thought my nine year old would give me a crazy look when I suggested this move. Nope, she just giggled and kissed it good night. The best part of making this bread was her sense of accomplishment. At supper, she told everyone that she had made the bread. It has a nice crunchy crust with a soft inside. Oh, it is very good. It does need to be started the night before but it is quick. 

No Knead Bread
1 1/2 cups warm water (around 105 degrees F)
1 package of instant yeast
1 tsp sugar
3 cups bread flour
2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp dried rosemary

Directions:

1. In a large cup, combine the water with the yeast and 1 tsp of sugar.
2. Allow to proof for about 5 minutes to check the yeast.
3. In a large bowl, combine the yeast water with the flour, salt, and rosemary until the dough comes together.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and allow to sit at room temperature for 12 to 20 hours.
5. After sitting, dump the dough onto a floured surface. With greased hands, fold the ends of the dough over a few times.
6. Place the dough onto a piece of parchment paper.
7. Lift the parchment paper with the dough in the center of it and place into a large bowl.
8. Cover the dough and allow to rest for 2 hours.
9. When the dough has rested for 1 hour and 30 minutes, slip an oven safe pot (Dutch oven) into the oven and preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
10. Carefully, remove the preheated pot from the oven and place the dough into the pot.
11. Cover the pot and bake for 30 minutes.
12. Uncover and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. The crust should be golden brown and the middle of the loaf has reached 210 degrees F.
13. Carefully, remove the bread from the pot and allow to cool on a wired rack.

Recipe adapted from Steamy Kitchen.

One year ago..............................I made Fruit Smoothie.

Who will make the bread? I will said my youngest.

Did you already know................
-The Little Red Hen is thought to be a Russian folk lore.
-The moral of the story: if you don't help then you shouldn't be rewarded.
-The story has been used by political leaders for the economy.

Chess

My son asked me to teach him chess. As I set up the chess board, I couldn't remember any of the names of the pieces. I could remember where the pieces went which is a good start. Then I showed him how the pieces moved on the board. It took me several times to explain to my son that he could not place the Queen where ever on the board. He did try some fancy moves but I would send the piece back for him to try again. I didn't play him to win but to teach him the game. From his vast experience of chess, he told me that I was a pretty good chess player. He is so sweet. At least, I remember his name.

Macerated Strawberries with zest of Grapefruit
1 lb. of strawberries
1/4 cup of sugar
2 tsp of grapefruit zest

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the strawberries with sugar.
2. Add the zest and mix well.
3. Allow the fruit to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Source Jen of Sweet Morris
Why so much sugar? It is the amount my children added before I stopped them. Why grapefruit zest? I couldn't find my lemon and it is what I had on the counter. Is it good? Oh, very good!

One year ago......................I made Mexican Chocolate Fudge-Pecan Cake.

Did you already know.........
-Chess originated from India.
-The pieces of chess are the rook, knight, bishop, queen, king, and pawn.
-The player with the white pieces goes first.

Happy President's Day!

Yes, I love holidays. I really like holidays that I'm able to spend the day at home with my children. My love for the holidays probably stem from my parents. No, they didn't celebrate the minor holidays like President's day. My son's favorite President is President George Washington. He likes to tell me the cherry tree story often. Since I realized I have never posted the pie crust recipe I use, I made cherry hand pies. When I make pie crust, I always use my food processor but it could easily be made by hand. I've been making this recipe for over ten years but sometimes with no shortening and all butter. 

 Pie Crust
 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp salt
2 tsp sugar
8 oz. unsalted butter, chilled
8 oz. shortening
1/4 to 1/2 cup very cold water

Directions:

1. Cut the butter into small pieces and chill.
2. Place the flour, salt, and sugar in a food processor.
3. Pulse the flour mixture for 30 seconds.
4. Add the butter and pulse for about 10 seconds. The mixture should resemble coarse meal.
5. Continue pulsing while slowly adding the cold water. Stop when the mixture begins to come together. Do not pulse for more than 30 seconds.
6. Turn the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface.
7. Form one large ball and cut it in half.
8. Wrap each half with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
9. Use the dough within a day for best results.

Recipe adapted from Martha Stewart Living 2002 Annual Recipes.

One year ago........................I made Ham, Cheese, & Fried Egg Panini.

Place the initial for each person on each pie. M is for Morris!

Did you already know..........
-President George Washington was born on February 22, 1732.
-President George Washington had 3 older half siblings and 5 younger siblings.
-The family home Mount Vernon was previously named Little Hunting Creek Plantation.

Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day! I hope you had a great day. My daughter asked me to bake cupcakes for her class. I always loved Valentine's Day at school. I would receive lots of Valentine cards from my classmates. My teacher normally threw a party and it was a pretty easy day. Can you imagine if we could have a Valentine Party at work? I'm pretty sure my boss would not go for it. 

Well, my daughter said she had a great day. All the students in her class had one of her cupcakes. She thought they were great . The recipe makes 24 so the last one I was able to share with my husband. We really liked this cupcake. I will say I still feel spoiled on Valentine's Day. I hope you had a special day even if it was just pampering yourself.

Magnolia's Vanilla Cupcake
1 1/2 cup self rising flour
1 1/4 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
3. In a small bowl, combine the flours with the baking powder. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, cream the butter until smooth.
5. Add the sugar to the butter and beat until fluffy.
6. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture.
7. In a large cup, combine the milk and vanilla.
8. Alternating between the flour mixture and the milk mixture, add slowly to the butter mixture. Do not over mix.
9. Evenly spoon the cupcake batter into the cupcake liners.
10. Bake the cupcakes for 20 to 25 minute or until the toothpick inserted into the center of the cupcakes comes out clean.
11. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

Recipe adapted from Sara's Secrets.
One year ago.......................I made Heart Pie Pops.

Did you already know.........

-Over 140 million greeting cards are purchased for Valentine's Day. 

-It is the 2nd most popular occasion for purchasing a greeting card.

-The majority of the cards are purchased within the week of Valentine's Day.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Mardi Gras

I normally dance with my daughters. I hadn't realized I don't just dance with my son without his sisters involved. Since he will be eight years old soon, he should learn to dance with just two people. I felt like we were in a mosh pit. I may be bruised up and down my sides. I'm not sure who taught him to dance like this but I have a feeling it may have been my oldest. We need a lot more practice or he may not have a date for prom. Yes, I think it may take that long.

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup all purpose flour
1 1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
1 lb. kielbasa, cut into 1 inch chunks
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
3 bay leaves
7 cups chicken broth
1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1 inch chunks
1 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Directions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, combine the oil and flour over medium heat. 
2. Stir constantly for 20 minutes or until the roux is the color of chocolate.
3. Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper. Stir for 5 minutes.
4. Add the sausage, salt, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, and bay leaves. Stir for 5 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth and stir until well combined.
6. Bring the gumbo to a boil and reduce heat to medium low.
7. Cook, uncovered, for 1 hour. Stir occasionally. 
8. In a bowl, combine the paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper. 
9. Season the chicken breast with the spice rub.
10. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Stir to combine.
11. Simmer for 2 hours. Skim off any fat that surfaces.
12. Remove the gumbo from the heat. Remove the bay leaves.
13. Serve over rice.

Recipe adapted from Emeril Lagasse.  
One year ago.......................I made Wild Mushroom Soup.

Did you already know.........
-In mosh pits, dancers slam dance normally at hard rock concerts.
-There are different types of pits to participate in moshing.
-Moshing is a form of dancing to let out energy/aggression but not to hurt others.

Enjoy Mardi Gras!

Chinese New Year

When we order take out at our local Chinese restaurant, I order chicken lo mein. It is a lot of  noodles with pieces of vegetables and chicken. I figured it couldn't be a lot of work. When I researched several recipes, they called for oyster sauce and other ingredients which wouldn't taste like the one I ordered. So, I figured I would attempt to make up a recipe. Does it taste like the one I order? No. Is it good? Yes. Does my son like it? Very much. It still gives me a nice excuse to order out once in  awhile. 

Chinese Chicken noodle dish
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp vegetable oil
1 lb. chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces
1/2 lb. Chinese noodles, Soba Noodles, or spaghetti noodles
1 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup snow peas
1 cup shiitake mushrooms
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp rice vinegar

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, water, cornstarch, and vegetable oil.
2. Add the chicken and coat with the soy sauce mixture.
3. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
4. In a large pot, cook the noodles according to the directions on the package. 
5. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium high heat.
6. Add the chicken and saute for about 5 minutes.
7. Add the snow peas, mushrooms, carrots, and celery.
8. Drain the noodles and add the noodles to the wok.
9. In a small bowl, combine the broth, sugar,and rice vinegar.
10. Add the broth mixture to the noodles and heat for 5 minutes. 
11. Season to taste. Serve hot or eat cold.

Recipe by Jen of Sweet Morris.
One year ago..............I made Nutella Molten Lava Cake.

Did you already know.............
-The Chinese New Year is according to the lunisolar calendar.
-It is also known as the Spring Festival.
-2013 is the Year of the Snake.

I wish you a year of wisdom, wealth, and longevity.

Heath Bits Peanut Butter Cookies

I am normally not a klutz. However, yesterday was a big exception. Yesterday, I had to drive up north to meet with this lady. I felt a little tired but it was no big deal. Well, the lady invited me into her office to talk. I put my stuff down on the floor except for my jacket. The lady said something to me as I took a step backwards accidentally onto my jacket. I lost my balance and caught myself as I stepped back with my other foot meanwhile knocking her chair over. I then turned which made my jacket whip out and hit the lady's plant. The plant went flying to the floor. Impressively, I didn't harm the chair or the plant. I will truly say a comedian could not have done my timing any better. I did apologize and I was wide awake for the rest of the day. There is nothing better to wake a person up then make wreckage in an office. If you are feeling a little tired today, I recommend some caffeine or maybe one of these cookies. It is safer.

Heath Bits Peanut Butter Cookies
8 oz. butter, softened
3/4 cups creamy peanut butter
1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
3 Tbsp milk
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
1 egg
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1 cup Heath Milk Chocolate Toffee Bits plus some for topping
1 cup peanut butter chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, peanut butter, and brown sugar until fluffy.
4. Add the milk and vanilla. Mix well.
5. Add the egg and beat until just blended. 
6. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
7. Gradually, add the flour mixture to the peanut butter mixture.
8. Fold in the toffee bits and the peanut butter cups.
9. Drop the dough by a heaping teaspoon onto the baking sheet.
10. Bake the cookies for 10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. 
11. Allow the cookie to cool for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe adapted from the back of the Heath English Toffee Bits package.
One year ago.....................I made Silken Chocolate Walnut Tart.

Did you already know.......
-Klutz can also be spelled clutz.
-Klutz means clumsy.
-According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary the word originates from the Yiddish word klots (wooden beam), the German word kloz (lumpy mass).

Cookie Dough

Why did it take me so long to try these cupcakes? I love cookie dough ice cream. It could have been the lack of peanut butter. It could have been they seemed like a lot of work. I'm not sure of the reason but they are delicious. My children loved them. My oldest daughter said they are one of her all time favorite cupcakes. I brought them to work and my coworkers seemed to like them. I even have some left over cookie dough in the freezer so it wouldn't be hard to make them again. 

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes
Cookie Dough Filling:
3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
6 Tbsp light brown sugar
1 cup flour plus 2 Tbsp flour
7 oz. sweetened condensed milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

Cupcakes:
18 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups brown sugar
4 eggs
2 2/3 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup milk
2 tsp vanilla extract

Frosting:
16 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 1/3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 cup all purpose flour
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup milk
2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:
Cookie Dough Filling: 

1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the flour, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the chocolate chips. 
4. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least one hour.

Cupcakes:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 
2. Line two cupcake pans with paper liners.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time. Beat well after each egg. 
5. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well blended.
6. Slowly add the flour mixture alternating with the milk to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until just incorporated after each addition.
7. Add the vanilla and mix until just incorporated. 
8. Evenly divide the batter between the cupcake liners.
9. Bake the cupcakes for 10 minutes. While the cupcakes are cooking, remove the cookie dough from the freezer and roll into 1 tsp size balls.
10. Very carefully remove the cupcakes from the oven and place one cookie dough ball on top of the half baked cupcakes.
11. Return the cupcakes to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 more minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cupcakes comes out clean. 
12. Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring the cupcakes to a wire rack. 
13. Allow to cool completely before frosting.

Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
2. Slowly add the powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add the flour and salt. Mix well.
4. Add a little milk and vanilla extract until well blended and the desired consistency.
5. Frost the cooled cupcakes and enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Annie's Eats. 

One year ago.......................I made Buttermilk Corn Bread.

Did you already know.........
-Ben and Jerry's has made cookie dough ice cream for over 20 years.
-It is still a very popular Ben and Jerry's ice cream flavor. 
-The idea for the ice cream tip came for an anonymous tip from a customer.

Ground Hog Day

Tomorrow is Groundhog day. I wonder who thought to watch a rodent come out of a hole to predict spring. I will admit I will watch the news tomorrow to find out if he saw his shadow. Won't you? My sister saw a robin lately and maybe it is a sign of an early spring? I actually watch for the arrival of Mr. & Mrs. Mallard to return since there is a pond near us. In celebration of Groundhog Day, I thought it would be fun to make homemade bread in a porcupine/ground hog shape. It is also a great way to warm up the kitchen. It was record highs yesterday so maybe it is foreshadowing an early spring.

Homemade White Loaf
2 cups warm water (about 105 degrees F)
1 envelope active dry yeast
1 tsp sugar
4-5 cups white bread flour
1 Tbsp salt
1 egg, beaten with a little water
2 Tbsp rosemary

1. In a small bowl, add the water, yeast, and sugar. Set aside to proof.
2. In a large bowl,  combine 4 cups of bread flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast water and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add about 1 Tbsp of flour at a time.
4. On a clean surface dusted with flour, knead the bread for about 10 minutes. 
5. Form the dough into a smooth ball.
6. Grease a large bowl and add the dough to the middle.
7. Oil the top of the bread and cover with oiled plastic wrap. 
8. Allow to rise for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
9. When the dough has doubled in size, punch down the dough and divide in half.
10. Form two balls and allow to rise for another 1 hour on a greased cookie sheet.
11. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
12. Gently slice the top of the dough to make crisscross patterns.
13. Brush a little of the beaten egg onto the dough and sprinkle with rosemary.
14. Cook for 25 minutes or until cooked through. Tap the bottom of the loaves and it should sound hallow.

Recipes adapted from The Ultimate Bread & Baking Book.
One year ago........................I made Coleslaw.

Did you already know..........
-Another name for a groundhog is woodchuck.
-Groundhogs hibernate from late October to February. 
-There are many recipes online that include groundhogs (which I probably will never try unless tricked).

Hash Brown Potatoes

It has been unusually cold here. Yes, I know I live in Maine. Yes, I know it is cold here but not this cold. Well, we try to keep the house pretty warm. It helps to bake a lot in the winter too! I can't always tell if my children are warm enough since my oldest will wear shorts no matter the temperature outside. I just want to make sure the younger children are warm enough. This weekend when we were listening to the music countdown my son decided he should substitute his own words for the songs. He did pretty well but I had a feeling maybe the house was a little too warm for he was singing, "I'm so toasty" and "Cozy, I'm cozy warm". I really liked the dancing too. Another way to stay warm is to make these hash brown potatoes. My family really liked them but next time I'm going to use left over potatoes to save time so we will be eating breakfast and not a late brunch. Stay warm!

Hash Brown Potatoes
6 potatoes, peeled and washed
1 onion
1 tsp paprika 
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
vegetable oil for the skillet

1. In a medium pot, add the potatoes and fill with water until the potatoes are cover. 
2. Cover and boil the potatoes for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain.
3. Shred the potatoes and then rinse well under water.
4. Drain and pat the potatoes dry.
5. Shred the onion and pat dry. 
6. In a medium bowl, mix the potatoes, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat.
8. Add about 1 tsp of oil and allow to heat for a minute.
9. Scoop about one spoon full of potato mixture and pack into a tight disk.
10. Add the potato disk carefully into the heated oil.  (I cooked about 3 disks at a time before repeating.)
11. Cook the potato hash brown for about 2 minutes per a side or until golden brown.
12. Flip the hash brown and cook the other side until golden brown.
13. Remove and place on a paper towel lined plate for about a minute.
14. Serve warm. 

Recipe adapted from Betty Crocker cookbook.
One year ago...................I made Mushroom Burgers.

Did you already know.....
-Hash Brown Potatoes are a variation of Swedish Roesti.
-Hash Browns are a great way to use left over cooked potatoes.
-Hash Browns are a popular breakfast food found in diners.

The Boss

Yesterday, I told my son to tell his sister to wear a sweater or sweatshirt to school. He said she wouldn't listen to him. So I replied, "Tell her you are the boss." Well, I guess I shouldn't have said that but I wanted her to listen to him. Excited, my son told both of his older sisters that he is the boss and they better listen to him per Mom. My younger daughter was not happy especially when her older sister confirmed that I made the youngest person in the house the boss. My son was more excited about just being boss since he didn't boss his sisters around. So last night, my youngest daughter was complaining that she is never the boss so I told her she could be boss today. She then informed us all that we better listen to her since she will be boss. Then I had to clarify that I was making her the leader. My children told me leader and boss was the same thing. I said it wasn't. I asked them what a leader was and I like my son's definition of a leader. To quote my son, he replied, "A leader guides the team through an adventure." What a great way to look at life. Guess what? My daughter has already reminded us that she is boss today. It will be an adventure.

My children told me these are the best biscuits they've had.

Baking Powder Biscuits
2 cups all purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup butter
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
3/4 cup buttermilk

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
3. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder,  baking soda, and salt. Cut in the shortening and butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. ( I use my fingers with my daughters help but you can use a pastry blender or forks.)
4. Mix in the cheese. 
5. With a spoon, stir in the buttermilk until the mixture leaves the sides of the bowl and there is a soft, moist dough. (Add more milk if needed.)
6. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. 
7. With a floured 2 inch round cutter (or top edge of a glass), cut out the dough pieces and place on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes or until light golden brown. 
9. Serve warm.

Recipe adapted from Pillsbury The Complete Book of Baking cookbook.
One year ago................I made Petite Pavlovas.

Did you already know..........
-According to Psychology Today, leaders are made.
-It also says extraverts tend to make better leaders.
-There are many different leadership styles and ways for one to improve on being a leader.

Lunch Time

I am really bad at making my lunch for work. I will normally bring a frozen meal or grab something out. If I'm home, I'll make lunch. I know it would be healthier to bring my lunch so I'm trying out different things to make then just bring a normal sandwich. Well, my oldest daughter loves bagels. So when she went to the store for me, she picked up mini bagels for our breakfast the next day. (It is wonderful to have a daughter who can drive and loves to run to the store.) Well, I wanted to use the bagels up. I decided to make bagel sandwiches. My son thought this was a great idea. My youngest daughter wasn't so sure. They loved it. I did too. It is always great when the kids like a meal that is quick-remember my son loves baby back ribs. I used cherry tomatoes since I prefer the taste. Since my family really liked this simple lunch, I thought maybe you would too.

Bagel Sandwich
1 mini bagel, split
2 slices of deli ham
1 tsp mayonnaise
1 slice of provolone cheese
3 cherry tomatoes, sliced

Directions:

1. Lightly toast the bagel. Allow to cool for a minute.
2. Add the slices of ham.  
3. Spread the mayonnaise over the ham.
4. Add the slice of cheese. 
5. Top the cheese with the tomato slices.

Wrap well and bring to work for lunch. (A reminder to me.)
Last year at this time..............I made Orange Chicken. 

Did you already know.....
- The exact origin of the bagel is unknown. 
-In 1610, the bagel is mentioned in an article published in Poland. 
-In the early 1900s, New York city had a bagel union to represent bagel workers.

Peace

I love chocolate cookies which is strange since I normally prefer vanilla ice cream and yellow cake. I gave my children several options for some cookies I wanted to make and they picked this one. Of, they are so good. I told my husband he needed to take these to work for them. They are butter rich with a sandy texture. They need to be refrigerated but it is worth the wait. If you can't wait, the dough is really good. 

World Peace Cookies
1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
11 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup mini chocolate chips

Directions:

1. In a mixer, cream the butter until creamy.
2. Add the sugar to the butter and cream until fluffy.
3. Add the salt and vanilla to the butter mixture and mix for a few more minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda together.
5. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and pulse about 5 times.
6. On low speed, mix the dough for 30 seconds or until the flour has been incorporated. The dough will be crumbly but do not overwork the dough. 
7. Separate the dough onto two separate pieces of plastic wrap. 
8. Shape the dough into logs and wrap well. 
9. Refrigerate over night or at least 3 hours.
10. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
11. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
12. Slice the hard dough into 1/2 inch rounds.
13. Arrange the dough onto the baking sheet with 1 inch space between slices.
14. Bake the cookies for 12 minutes and remove from oven.
15. Allow the cookies to rest for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool.
16. Option: Top a few with a sweetened whip cream.

Recipe adapted from Baking From My Home to Yours cookbook by Doris Greenspan. 

Like the different nail polish? Peace Out!

Did you already know......
-In August 2011, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial opened.
-The memorial in Washington, D.C. had a paraphrased quote which will be removed from the statute since Dr. King didn't say the inscribed quote.
-The corrected statute will be completed in the Spring of 2013.

Italian Ranch Dip

What is your favorite condiment? I like salsa. My husband would pick mayonnaise. My children would pick ranch. I have at least talked them into trying lite ranch which they liked. I tried this twist on the ranch dip and they liked it a lot. The best part was the vegetables I had for them to dip into their new dip. It helps to put the vegetables in cool little dishes.

Italian Ranch Dip
2/3 cup buttermilk
1/3 cup light sour cream
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl,mix all the ingredients together. 
2. Serve with desired vegetables.

Recipe adapted from Healthy Recipes Kids Love cookbook.

Did you already know.....
-In the 1950s, Steve Hensen served his dressing at his ranch in California.
-The name of the ranch was Hidden Valley Ranch near Santa Barbara.
-He would give his dressing as a gift to his guest and it became very popular so they began selling it in packets.

Banana Bread Cookies

Since I have been trying to eat more fruits and vegetables, I have been buying more bananas. Well, I like my bananas a little green. So when they are ripe, I don't want to eat them. I try talking the kids into eating them but they tell me maybe later. I realize it really means they won't be eating them either. Since I need to use them up somehow, I decided to make some banana bread. My son had no problem eating the banana bread and told me it was a healthy choice since there are bananas in it. I like his way of thinking. My daughter likes muffin tops so I figured I would attempt to make them with the banana batter. Well, the end result were more like cookies. Cookies are good and these cookies are too since they have banana in them, right? If you like banana bread, you will like these cookies.

 Banana Bread Cookies 1 1/2 cups sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened 2 eggs 4 bananas, mashed 1/2 cup buttermilk 1 tsp vanilla 3 cups all purpose flour 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt
Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Cream sugar with the butter until well blended.
3. Mix in the eggs and blend well.
4. Add the bananas, buttermilk, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
5. Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until combined. The batter should be thick if not add another Tbsp of flour.
6. Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto a parchment lined cookie sheet. 
7. Space the cookie batter about 3 inches apart.
8. Bake the cookies about 15 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe adapted from the Betty Crocker 40th Anniversary Edition Cookbook.
Last year at this time..............I made Jalapeno Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms. 

Did you already know....... 
-One banana has about 90 calories. 
-Bananas are a good source of potassium, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, & fiber.
-Bananas are normally shipped green since they are easier to transport and not so fragile.

Bran Banana Muffins

Did you make any New Year's Resolutions? Are you still keeping them? My resolutions are to eat more fruit and vegetables plus drink more water.

During the past holiday season, we were all sick so my main goal was to feel better. The flu season swept in like wild fire. When I was starting to feel better, my husband started to feel awful so our friend gave him some chest rub ointment to help with his breathing. So, I was applying the ointment to my husband's chest when my seven years old son walks into our room. He looks at us and asks what we are doing? I reply that I was helping Daddy grow more chest hair. My son pulls down the collar of his shirt and asked, "Can I have some too?" After I stopped laughing, I told him that it was medicine to help Dad breath better. Then my son informed us that he can't wait to grow a mustache. Why a mustache?

Bran Banana Muffins
2 cups All Bran cereal
1 cup skim milk
1 egg
1 egg white
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 overripe bananas, mashed
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/3 cup white whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbsp baking powder
Additional cereal and sugar for sprinkling on top

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Line a muffin tin with muffin wrappers. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, stir together the cereal and milk. Allow to soak for 7 minutes. 
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and egg white until slightly frothy.
5. Add the brown sugar, honey, oil, bananas, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the brown sugar mixture into the cereal mixture. Stir until combined.
7. In another medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. 
8. Add the flour mixture to the cereal mixture and stir until the flour has been combined about 15 strokes.
9. Evenly divide the batter into the 12 muffin wrappers.
10. Sprinkle each muffin with a little cereal and sugar on top.
11. Bake the muffins for about 25 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean.
12. Serve warm.

Recipe adapted from The Pastry Queen cookbook by Rebecca Rather. 

One year ago....................I made Lemon Frosted Cupcakes.

Did you already know...
-It is recommended for woman to eat 25 grams fiber a day.
-Men should be eating 30 grams a fiber a day.
Bran helps lower cholesterol and promotes good digestion.