What Would Martha Cook?

I've Moved to a New Location!!

2010-09-01T21:18:00.003-06:00

Moving Soon!

2010-08-09T11:21:00.001-06:00

This place has been a desert of recipes this summer...and for good reason. What Would Martha Cook? will be moving the first of September. I cannot wait to share the wonderful new changes...you will love them, I know!! I have had a vision for this site over the past three years that is about to come to fruition. It will save you time and money and will connect you to other wonderful recipes of your friends. What will "dear friend" be having for dinner on Friday? She will have her recipe posted, so you can try it, too.

I LOVE WHAT IS COMING! It has been bathed in prayer and will hopefully provide freedom in your schedule that will open up time for dreaming and saving in your schedule, too.

Atomic Buffalo Turds

2010-07-08T14:04:00.000-06:00

12 large jalapeños, cored, seeded and slit down one side
1 - 8 oz. bar cream cheese
1/4 c. freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
24 little smokies
12 pieces thickly sliced bacon, cut in half
24 toothpicks
1/2 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 t. ground cardamom
1/2 T. freshly ground pepper

Cut cream cheese into 12 equal parts. Roll each part in shredded cheddar and stuff one in each jalapeño. Also place two little smokies in each jalapeño. Wrap each jalapeño in the 2 halves of one slice of bacon, using toothpicks to secure the bacon.

In a separate dish, blend pepper, cardamom and brown sugar. Roll each wrapped-jalapeño in this mixture and place on a wire rack in cookie sheet, which is lined with foil. When finished gently spoon remaining brown sugar mixture over each one.

Bake for 30 minutes in a 375 degree oven. Enjoy!

Grocery List
jalapeños

cream cheese
sharp cheddar cheese
little smokies
bacon
toothpicks
brown sugar
ground cardamom
black pepper

Approximate Cost: $6.76

Mashed Potatoes

2010-06-27T15:24:00.002-06:00

4 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thickly sliced
1 1/2 c. heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 sticks butter
2 t. salt
1/4 t. black pepper, freshly ground

Soak the potatoes in stock pot with water just covering them for 5 minutes. Drain off and add the same amount of water. Boil over high heat for 25 minutes. Drain. Return to medium heat for 2 minutes, constantly stirring to remove excess water.

Remove from heat. Add butter, salt, pepper, and cream. Using a potato masher or hand blender, blend until smooth. Heat over medium-low heat for 3 minutes more. Serves 8-10.

Grocery List
Yukon Gold potatoes
heavy whipping cream
sticks butter
salt
black pepper

Approximate Cost: $4.85

Stuffed Flank Steak

2010-06-27T15:19:00.002-06:00

1.5 lbs. flank steak
8 oz. baby bella mushrooms
1 medium onion, peeled and quartered
6 slices bacon
4 cloves garlic
1 1/2 t. salt
1/4 t. black pepper, freshly ground
1 1/2 T. Grill Mates Montreal Steak seasoning
a few toothpicks

In a food processor, finely process mushrooms, bacon, onion, 1/2 t. salt and garlic. Cook in a frying pan over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring every two minutes and constantly the last minute.

Lay out steak, salting it evenly. Spread cooked stuffing mixture evenly over the top of each steak. Slowly roll each piece and use 2 toothpicks for each steak to hold the roll together. Place in an oblong baking dish.

Cook at 375 degrees in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Serves 6-8.

Grocery List
flank steak
baby bella mushrooms
onion
bacon
garlic
salt
black pepper
Grill Mates Montreal Steak seasoning
toothpicks

Approximate Cost: $10.00

Homemade Sugar Cones

2010-06-16T15:44:00.000-06:00

2 egg whites
1/2 c. sugar
3/4 c. all purpose flour
1/4 c. butter, melted

In mixer, beat egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in sugar. Beat in flour and butter until just blended. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw two 7 inch circles on the paper. Drop 3 T. batter in the center of each circle. Spread batter to the edge of the circle. Bake at 400 degrees for 6-8 minutes or until edges are golden brown.

Place the cookies, bottom side up on a paper towel-lines work surface. To shape cone, begin with one edge and roll cookie a third of the way toward the center. Roll a third of the opposite side over the rolled portion. Shape top cone. Place seam-side down on a wire rack to cool. May need to return the second cookie to the oven for 1-2 minutes if necessary to roll. Repeat with remaining batter to make four more cones. Makes 6 cones. From Taste of Home's June/ July 2005 catalog. Goes well with Homemade Peach Ice Cream and Homemade Vanilla or Chocolate Ice Cream.

Groceries
eggs
sugar
flour
butter

Approximate Cost: $1.75

Gram's Banana Birthday Cake

2010-06-04T17:54:00.002-06:00

2 1/2 c. sugar
1 c. shortening or butter
4 eggs
1 c. sour cream
3 c. all-purpose flour
2 t. baking soda
6 very ripe bananas, mashed (2 1/2 c.)
1 T. vanilla extract

Frosting:
6 c. powdered sugar
1/2 c. cocoa powder
1/2 c. butter, softened
1/2 c. brewed, strong black coffee

Preheat the oven to 350°. Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans and set aside. Cream together the sugar and shortening or butter. It will be dry and crumbly. Add the eggs and beat well. Mix in the sour cream. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking soda. Add to the creamed mixture and beat well. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract and mix well. Divide evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Check the cakes partway through baking and swap the pans around in the oven, top to bottom, bottom to top. Cool a few minutes and remove from pans. Finish cooling on a wire rack. This cake freezes very well if you’d like to bake it ahead of time to frost later. Wrap each layer in waxed paper and plastic wrap. There is no need to thaw before frosting the cake; it actually frosts quite nicely while the layers are still a bit frozen.

Frosting: Sift the powdered sugar and cocoa together into a large bowl. Add the softened butter and mix on very low speed until they are incorporated. Add the coffee and mix until smooth.

Tip: Icing Layer Cakes-- Choose the smoothest layer for the top layer of the cake. To keep your plate clean while icing the cake, place four strips of waxed paper 1/2” under the cake, extending over the sides of the plate. Just pull them out when you’re finished. Put about 1/4” of frosting between each layer of cake. Frost the sides next, and the top of the cake last.

From Bill of Penzey's Spices. We love their spices and have used them for over 16 years now.

Grocery List
sugar

butter
eggs
sour cream
all-purpose flour
baking soda
bananas
vanilla extract
powdered sugar
cocoa powder
butter
coffee

Approximate Cost: $9.33

Focaccia with Chevre and Green Onions

2010-06-04T09:21:00.000-06:00

1 3/4 c. warm water
1 T. dry yeast
4 1/2 c. flour plus scant amount for kneading
1/4 c. olive oil plus 8 T. separated
2 1/2 t. salt
6 oz. goat cheese
1/4 c. minced green onions
1 t. minced garlic
1/8 t. dry crushed red pepper
3 t. coarse salt

Place 1 c. warm water in bowl of heavy mixer. Sprinkle yeast over and stir to dissolve yeast. Let stand 10 minutes. Mix in one cup of flour and cover bowl with plastic wrap. Let stand in a warm place for one hour or until doubled in volume.

Brush two large baking sheets with olive oil. Transfer dough to lightly floured surface. Knead for about 2 minutes and let it sit for 10 minutes. Divide it into eight equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and flatten ball to a disk. Transfer disks to baking sheets. Let rise for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. With lightly floured fingers, press dough disks al over, dimpling the surface. Sprinkle evenly each disk with goat cheese, green onions, garlic and crushed red pepper. Drizzle each with 1 t. olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with coarse salt. Let rise 15 minutes.

Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer bread to racks. Brush each piece with 2 t. olive oil. Serve while warm. From Stacie in the Siesta Fiesta Cookbook. Want one? Go here for details!

Grocery List
warm water
dry yeast
flour
olive oil
salt
goat cheese
green onions
garlic
crushed red pepper
coarse salt

Approximate Cost: $6.25

Oxford Street Chicken Kabobs

2010-06-03T16:27:00.001-06:00

1 bunch green onions, coarsely chopped
1 c. pineapple juice
1 T. sugar
2 T. soy sauce
1 T. teriyaki sauce
1 T. canola oil
1 t. salt
2 t. freshly peeled and grated ginger root
3/4 t. allspice
1/4 t. crushed red pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
16 medium fresh mushrooms
1 red pepper, cored, seeded and cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
16 cherry tomatoes
1 red onion, peeled and cut into 8 wedges
1 large yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
14-16 skewers

In a food processor, combine soy sauce, teriyaki, oil, green onions, sugar, pineapple juice, ginger, allspice, salt, and crushed red pepper and purée.

Pour over chicken pieces in a glass container. Marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Place the chicken, bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes and onions alternately on skewers. Grill over medium heat for 10 minutes, turning once. Make sure the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Adapted from Oxford Street's Pineapple Chicken recipe and Colorado Collage cookbook.

Grocery List
green onions
pineapple juice
sugar
soy sauce
teriyaki sauce
canola oil
salt
ginger root
allspice
crushed red pepper
chicken breasts
mushrooms
red bell pepper
cherry tomatoes
red onion
yellow bell pepper

Approximate Cost: $8.65

A Different Kind of BLT

2010-05-24T08:20:00.000-06:00

1 loaf French bread
4 T. butter, softened
1 t. garlic powder
1/2 c. sharp cheddar, shredded
12 oz. bacon, cooked and crisp
2 roma tomatoes, sliced thinly
1/2 romaine lettuce head, chopped finely

Cut the French bread in half, length-wise. Spread 2 T. of butter evenly over each. Sprinkle 1/2 t. garlic over each. Cook under the broiler of your over on low for 4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Sprinkle 1/4 c. cheddar on each half of the bread and put it under the broiler for 1 minute longer.

Evenly place bacon on each half, then add tomato slices and lettuce. Gentle put the halves together and slice the loaf into 6-7 sandwiches. Add your favorite condiment (mayo, miracle whip, mustard, etc) and enjoy!

Grocery List
French bread

butter
garlic powder
sharp cheddar
bacon
roma tomatoes
lettuce

Approximate Cost: $3.75

Lobster Cakes

2010-05-08T16:35:00.001-06:00

1 1/2 lbs. lobster meat
1 egg
2 T. lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 t. salt (plus scant amount for when it's cooling)
1 T. mayonnaise
1 T. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 t. chipotle tobasco sauce
1/2 t. freshly ground black pepper
2 T. Tony Chachere's cajun seasoning
1 medium white onion, diced finely
1 1/2 c. fresh bread crumbs
4 T. butter
3 T. canola oil

Blend egg, bread crumbs, mayo, lemon juice. Worcestershire sauce, tobasco, salt pepper, and cajun seasoning in mixer. Add onion and lobster meat. In a deep frying pan melt oil and butter over medium high heat for 3 minutes. Using small ice cream scoop, scoop about 6 balls in the pan at a time. Cook for two minutes each on both sides and then two more minutes each on both sides, slightly flattening it into a patty after the first turn. Let it cool and drain on a plate with two paper towels. Salt, as you'd like. Serve with shrimp cocktail sauce or malt vinegar.

Grocery List
lobster
egg
lemon juice
salt
mayonnaise
Worcestershire sauce
chipotle tobasco sauce
black pepper
Tony Chachere's cajun seasoning
onion
bread
butter
canola oil

Approximate Cost: $8.50 (look for a manager's special on the lobster and freeze it until you are ready to make it)

Coconut, Berry and Walnut Granola

2010-04-16T11:44:00.000-06:00

6 oz. coconut
2 c. instant, plain oats
3 oz. Craisins
3 oz. dried blueberries (or blueberry Craisins)
1/2 c. chopped walnuts
1/2 c. brown sugar (or splenda version of brown sugar)
5 T. honey
1 stick butter

Melt 1/2 stick butter in deep-dish 10" pie plate or casserole dish (8 1/2 x 11") in a 350 degree F oven. In a large bowl, blend coconut, oats, craisins, blueberries, and walnuts. Stir in honey 1 T. at a time. Add brown sugar and mix thoroughly.

Pour into pan. Bake for 20 minutes, then stir. Bake 5 minutes, then stir. Bake 5 minutes more. Let cool completely and store in an airtight container. (I think this is wonderful with Brown Cow Vanilla Yogurt (1/2 c of each mixed together) for breakfast!

Groceries
coconut
oats
craisins
dried blueberries
walnuts
brown sugar
honey
butter

Approximate Cost: $6.75

Baked Flautas

2010-04-08T11:30:00.000-06:00

2 lbs. ground or shredded beef, cooked
2 t. cumin
1 medium onion, diced
1 clove garlic, smashed and diced
2 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1 lime, seeds removed
12 of this recipe for flour tortillas or store bought
8 oz. shredded Monterrey Jack Cheese
4 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cabbage, shredded
3 T. canola oil
1 T. butter

Melt butter and canola oil in a frying pan. Sauté onions and garlic for 2 minutes over medium high heat. Add cumin and lime and stir. Add shredded beef (can use chicken, too), shredded cabbage salt and pepper, covering it with a lid and cooking it together over medium low heat for five minutes. Set aside.

Freshly cook and lay out 12 flour tortillas (if store bought, please heat on a cast iron skillet for about 15 seconds on each side). Cover middle with 1 oz. of the cheeses (mix them together first in a bowl). Then add about 1/4 c.- 1.2 c. meat to each one down the middle. Roll each one and place on a baking dish.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and cook the flautas for 10-12 minutes (until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are slightly browned.

Groceries
ground or shredded beef
cumin
onion
garlic
salt
pepper
lime
this recipe for flour tortillas or store bought
Monterrey Jack Cheese
sharp cheddar cheese
cabbage
canola oil
butter

Approximate Cost: $7.20

Party Pizzas

2010-03-26T11:51:00.001-06:00

Crusts:
1 T. quick-rising active dry yeast
1 1/3 c. warm water (115 degrees F)
1 T. olive oil
1 t. salt
1 c. whole wheat flour
1/4 c. rye flour
2-3 c. unbleached flour
1-2 T. cornmeal
non-stick spray

Pepper Topping
2 t. olive oil
1 clove garlic minced
2 Italian tomatoes, sliced thinly
1 T. fresh oregano, minced
3 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 c. canned roasted peppers
1/4 c. sliced black olives

Broccoli Topping
1 c. onions, diced
1 t. olive oil
1 c. sour cream
1 t. fresh dill
2-3 c. broccoli florets, lightly steamed
1 c. sharp cheddar, shredded

In a large bowl, mix the yeast with water. Set aside for 2 minutes ot dissolve. Stir in oil and salt. Add in wheat, rye and unbleached flours and make a kneadable dough. On a lightly floured surface, knead until smooth and elastic for 10 minutes. Divide into 16 balls, Cover each and let rest for 15 minutes.

Pepper topping: In a small cup combine the oil with the garlic. Brush over 8 of the pizza crusts. Tops with tomatoes, oregano, mozzarella, peppers and olives.

Broccoli topping: In a smal no-stick pan over low heat, cook the onions in the oil until soft. Stir in the sour cream and sill. Spread over 8 pizza crusts, leaving a 3/8 inch border. Top with broccoli and cheddar.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Form the pizzas into small pizzas about 4 inches in diameter. Coat 2 large cookie sheets with no-stick spray. Sprinkle lightly with cornmeal. Place the pizzas on the sheets. Top 8 with the pepper topping and 8 with the broccoli topping. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the crusts are browned.

Grocery List
yeast
salt
whole wheat flour
rye flour
unbleached flour
cornmeal
non-stick spray
garlic
Italian tomatoes
fresh oregano
mozzarella cheese
roasted peppers
black olives
onions
olive oil
sour cream
fresh dill
broccoli florets
sharp cheddar

Approximate Cost: $8.66

Best Fried Shrimp with Dipping Sauce

2010-03-25T12:22:00.000-06:00

1 1/2 c. peanut oil
1 lb. Extra Large Fresh Shrimp or Colossal Farm Raised Shrimp (7 to 9 per person, depending on size)
2 egg whites, beaten lightly with 2 teaspoons water
1/2 t. salt
1/4 t. paprika
1/4 t. Garlic Magic or Garlic Powder (optional) plus 1/8 t. for dipping sauce
1 sleeve saltine crackers
7 oz. ketchup
2 t. mayonnaise
4 T. heavy whipping cream
1 lemon cut in wedges

Crumble crackers fine in processor or in zip lock bag with rolling pin. Peel, devein and butterfly, rinse, and drain the shrimp. Prepare shrimp - Be sure to fully butterfly them, leaving tail on but splitting in 2 sections almost to the tail. Drain shrimp well.

Prepare cracker crumb coating. Prepare sauce (below).

Put oil on to preheat for frying to 350 Degrees F. or until a drop of water will sizzle. With a wire whip, lightly beat egg white with water. Whisk in the salt, paprika and garlic powder (optional). Put half the well drained shrimp in this mixture. Coat well.

Place shrimp in the cracker crumbs and coat well. Gently shake off excess. Slowly place these in the hot oil and fry for 3 minutes until lightly golden brown. Do not overfry! Drain well and place on paper towels or uncoated paper plates (the cheap kind) to drain. Repeat Process until all are cooked.

Dipping Sauce:

With a wire whisk, combine mayonnaise with Catsup until smooth. Slowly add cream and whisk together until you have a creamy sauce about the color of Thousand Island Dressing. Add garlic Magic (available at most super markets) or Garlic Powder to taste. Cover and refrigerate.

Serve Shrimp Hot with Dipping Sauce and Lemon Wedges!

Grocery List
peanut oil
shrimp
eggs
salt
paprika
Garlic Magic or Garlic Powder
saltine crackers
ketchup
mayonnaise
heavy whipping cream
lemon

Approximate Cost: $9.38

Aunt Marian's Chocolate Mousse Pie

2010-03-25T12:12:00.000-06:00

8 oz. semi sweet chocolate chips
4 oz. dark chocolate chips
chocolate shavings of your favorite chocolate
6 T. unsalted butter @ room temp.
6 large eggs, separated
1 T. cream of tartar
1/2 c. plus 4 T. sugar
3 c. heavy cream, cold
2 t. pure vanilla extract plus 1 t.
1 box Chocolate wafer cookies (like nilla wafers)
2 T. powdered sugar

Topping:
Put 2 cups of whipping cream in the mixing bowl, add 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 t. vanilla to it as it is whipping up. You don't want it to be too sweet but I will add a little more sugar/vanilla if needed. Garnish with chocolate sahvings.

Crust:
Crush up the cookies and add 6 T. melted butter. Press it in the pan. Basically do this just as you would for vanilla wafers cookie crust. Usually I press the crust into the sides and bottom of springform pan but it can be put into pie pan or even 9x11 or just about any pan.

Put the chocolate and butter in a heat proof bowl and place over saucepan containing about 1" of barely simmering water (or use a double boiler). Stir with a wooden spoon until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove the bowl from the heat and let cool slightly. With a whisk, beat the egg yolks into the chocolate adding them in one at a time until smooth. Set aside.

In another bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and beat until soft peaks form. Gradually beat 1/2 cup sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. In a Chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream until it begins to thicken up. Add the remaining 4 T sugar and the vanilla and continue beating until the cream holds soft peaks.

Now you've got all the elements prepared, put it all together. GENTLY - fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it.

NEXT, FOLD the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture being careful not to over work the mousse or it will be heavy.

Spoon filling into the crust. Cover and refrigerate for a few hours to set. After it sets, put the topping on and garnish it with some chocolate shavings and it's ready to serve. Enjoy :o)

Grocery List
semi sweet chocolate chips

dark chocolate chips
favorite chocolate for shavings
unsalted butter
large eggs
cream of tartar
sugar
heavy cream
pure vanilla extract
chocolate wafer cookies
Approximate Cost: $6.55

2 T. powdered sugar

Scalloped Potatoes

2010-03-15T15:25:00.001-06:00

medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
3/4 c. milk
4 T. butter
1/2 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 c. sharp cheddar, grated
1/2 c. Monterrey jack cheese, grated
1/4 c. parmesan cheese, grated

In a medium pan, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic for 4 minutes over medium heat. Add potatoes and stir, making sure each potato is coated with the melted butter. Cook for 5 minutes over medium heat. Stir in cheese and transfer all to a round, glass casserole dish. Bake in oven, uncovered, for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Serves 6-8 people.

Grocery List
potatoes
butter
garlic
onion
sharp cheddar
Monterrey jack
parmesan

Approximate Cost: $3.20

Anna Brown’s Beef, Onion & Guinness Pie

2010-03-13T21:52:00.001-07:00

Approx. 3.3 pounds Shin Beef, cut into 2” cubes
2 medium onions peeled and sliced
1 T. flour seasoned with salt and pepper
2 c. Guinness
1 c. beef stock
I pack ready-roll puff pastry

Place the cubed shin beef and the onion in a casserole dish and coat with the seasoned flour. Pour in the Guinness and the stock and bring to simmer gently on the hob. Cover with a tightly fitting lid and place in an oven preheated to 140 Celsius for at least 2 ½ hours until beef is tender.

Cook pastry as per the pack instructions, cut into individual portions about 5” by 5” square. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and spring greens.

For this recipe be sure to use shin beef as it is well suited to the long slow cooking process. Stewing steak tends to disintegrate, as opposed to shin beef which has gelatinous fibres running through it. From my dear friend Sue, who shared it from this link St. Patrick's Day 2010.

Grocery List
shin beef
onions
flour
salt
pepper
Guinness
beef stock
ready roll puff pastry

Approximate Cost: $13.50

Razzle Dazzle Pie

2010-03-12T15:08:00.000-07:00

3 c. each blackberries and raspberries (if using fresh berries or
1 bag each frozen berries (do not thaw)
3 T. flour
1/3 c. sugar
2 pre-made pie crusts (Pillsbury or your own 2 -9 inch)

Mix up the berries, add flour, and sugar and mix.
Pour into pie crust. Cut slits in pie crust & gently lay top crust on
Trim off excess with knife or kitchen shears. Pinch the seams &
Brush edges of pie crust with water.
Sprinkle water on top crust and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake at 375 degrees for approx. 45 min.
(Put foil on oven bottom for spills)

Serve with your favorite home-made vanilla ice cream! or store bought is good too! From Louise Denton in the Siesta Fiesta Cookbook. You can get yours soon, see here for the details.

Grocery List
blackberries
raspberries
flour
sugar
pre-made pie crust

Approximate Cost: $6.75

Mer's Candied Pretzels

2010-02-10T14:19:00.007-07:00

2 bags pretzel sticks
1 bag white Wilton candy melts
1 bag red Wilton candy melts
1 shaker of sprinkles
1 sheet parchment
1 sandwich baggy
12 gift bags and 1 yd. ribbon

Melt white chips in a pyrex, 2 cup, measuring cup, according to directions (do not get it wet or it will ruin and do not overcook). Break all pretzels in half. Dip the broken end halfway up into the white, melted candy. Lay on parchment. Do this for all the pretzels. Sprinkle the sprinkles on liberally, while the candy coating is still not set (still melty).

Melt red chips according to directions in a sandwich-sized, zip lock bag. After melted (again do not get it wet or overcook), snip a very small piece from one corner of the bottom. Drizzle the red over the pretzels in strings. (You can use different colors for different occasions. These are for Valentine's day).

Let set/ harden. Place six of the half-pretzels in each bag and tie with about 4 inches of ribbon. Makes 12 bags. From my friend Meredith, who has great, low cost ideas for meals and treats!

Groceries
pretzel sticks
white Wilton candy melts
red Wilton candy melts
sprinkles
parchment
zip lock bag
gift bags
ribbon

Approximate Cost: $12.00 ($1/ bag)

Alfajores Cookies

2010-02-02T17:25:00.003-07:00

2 c. cornstarch (2 cups – see method below*)
1 1/2 c. all purpose flour (1 1/2 cup)
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. baking soda
2 t. baking powder
14 T. butter at room temperature
3/4 c. sugar
3 egg yolks
1 T. cognac
1 c. Dulce de Leche (see below**)

*If you don't have a kitchen scale, this recipe should convince you to go get one. Cornstarch is quite difficult to measure in volume, so the measurement here is by weight instead. If you don't have a kitchen scale and don't want to buy one (whatever!) you can sift the cornstarch directly onto your measuring cup. Line a pasty board or your countertop with a large piece of parchment paper, place a one cup dry-measure in the middle of it. Pour cornstarch into a sifter or a large strainer and sift it directly over the measuring cup. Continue sifting until you fill the cup with sifted cornstarch. You can tap the cup gently just to let the cornstarch settle into the cup, but do it very gently as you don't want to pack cornstarch tightly into it. Level the top with the back of a knife. When you're done measuring, gather the paper and pour the excess cornstarch back into the box. Measuring this way you should get about 9oz from two cups, precisely what you need in this recipe.

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Sift flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder and baking soda together. Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter, sugar, and yolks on high speed until they are well incorporated, add cognac and beat until combined. Reduce the speed to low, add the dry ingredients a bit at a time until well incorporated. Empty the bowl onto a dry board and knead the mixture just until it comes together into dough. Divide the dough into two balls. At this point you can wrap each with plastic and store in the fridge for up to a day until you're ready to use them.

If the dough has been refrigerated, let it sit out at room temperature for a short time to warm up a bit. Then, on a lightly-floured board, roll each ball of dough until it is 1/4 inch or 5mm thick. Use a 3inch or 6-7cm fluted cookie cutter to cut 20-25 cookies from each half of the dough. You can gather the excess dough together and roll it again. (This dough is very forgiving.) Place the cut cookies onto two large cookie sheets, leaving just half an inch or 1cm between them - they only expand a tiny bit while baking.

Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, switching the baking sheets about halfway through. The cookies should change the color only slightly. Remove from the oven immediately, let stand on the cookie sheet for about two minutes. Then, handling them gently, transfer them onto a rack to cool.

To finish the cookies, fill a pastry bag with the dulce de leche and pipe about 1 tbsp on top of half the cookies. If you don't have a pastry bag, just spread the dulce de leche onto the cookies with a butter knife. Be careful, these cookies are very delicate. Top the filled cookies with the other half, making little cookie sandwiches, pressing down a little so the filling is spread evenly. Sift a bit of powdered sugar on top just before serving. You can also roll the side of the cookies over coconut flakes to make them even more delicious (and authentic.)

**Dulce de Leche
1 14oz can of sweetened condensed milk
1 vanilla pod (if you want to splurge, or just a teaspoon of vanilla extract (added at the end)

Preheat the oven to 425F

Open the can of condensed milk and pour it into a medium-sized baking pan. (I use a glass pyrex pie plate for this.) Cut the vanilla pod in half lengthwise (if using) and scrape out the seeds. Add them to the condensed milk and mix well. You can even throw in the pod as well, just remove them after the cooking. Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil.

Place the baking pan on top of a larger pan with high sides. Add water to the larger pan until it comes halfway up to the side of the small pan. Place it in the oven and bake for about one hour. Check it every so often to make sure there's still water in the pan, fill it if necessary.

Remove the pan from the oven, take out the vanilla pod (or add vanilla extract if using) whisk until the texture is smooth. Let it cool to room temperature before using. From Angela, who found it in The Foodie Handbook (pic is also from the book). She said they are very, very good!

Grocery List
cornstarch
all purpose flour
salt
baking soda
baking powder
butter
sugar
eggs
cognac
sweetened condensed milk
vanilla pod or extract

Approximate Cost: $6.89

Vichyssoise

2010-01-28T15:49:00.002-07:00

3 c. potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 ham bone or one thick slice of ham
6 c. chicken stock (or 6 c. water a 6 chicken bouillon cubes)
3 c. sliced leeks (white only) or green onions, chopped
1 c. heavy cream
1 t. salt
1/8 t. black pepper, freshly ground
3 T. minced chives

Combine in large stock pot chicken stock, potatoes, ham bone and leeks. Simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes. Puree the soup with hand blender or food processor. Over low heat, add cream to purred mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Chill. Serve in chilled soup bowls with chives on top. (May enjoy hot, as well--we do!)

Grocery List
potatoes
leeks
ham
heavy cream
chicken stock
salt
pepper
green onions (for chives)

Approximate Cost: $4.57

Mamma Jean's Five Flavor Cake

2010-01-15T14:13:00.004-07:00

2 sticks butter
1/2 c. shortening
3 c. sugar, plus 1 c. sugar for glaze
5 eggs, well beaten
3 c. flour
1/2 t. baking powder
1 c. milk
1 t. coconut extract, plus 1 t. for glaze
1 t. rum extract, plus 1 t. for glaze
1 t. butter extract, plus 1 t. for glaze
1 t. lemon extract, plus 1 t. for glaze
1 t. vanilla extract, plus 1 t. for glaze
1/2 c. water for glaze

Cream butter, shortening and 3 c. sugar 'til light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk. Stir in flavorings (1 t. of each kind)--mixing all together thoroughly.

Pour into greased 10" tube pan (make sure filling is no more than 3/4 full in the pan). Bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hours. Cool 10 minutes and pour glaze evenly over the top.

Glaze: In a small sauce pan blend together 1 c. sugar, 1/2 c. water and 1 t. each of the flavorings. Boil until sugar is melted and pour over hot cake in pan. Cool in pan for 30 minutes. Turn onto your favorite cake plate and serve. From my friend, Holly's grandmother.

Grocery List
butter
shortening
sugar
eggs
flour
baking powder
milk
coconut extract
rum extract
butter extract
lemon extract
vanilla extract

Approximate Cost: $ 7.25

Boston Brown Bread

2010-01-07T12:15:00.003-07:00

1 c. raisins
1 c. boiling water
1 c. all purpose flour
1 c. whole wheat flour
1 c. cornmeal
1 1/2 t. baking soda
1 t. salt
1/4 c. brown sugar
2 c. buttermilk
1 c. molasses

Put raisins into a small bowl; cover with boiling water and let stand 15 minutes. Combine dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Add raisins, buttermilk and molasses to dry ingredients. Stir until just blended. Pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake for one hour at 350 degrees. Makes one loaf.

Grocery List
raisins
all purpose flour
wheat flour
cornmeal
baking soda
salt
brown sugar
molasses
buttermilk

Approximate Cost: $3.79

Christmas Cookie Edition: Gingerbread Cookies

2009-12-18T17:50:00.002-07:00

3 c. flour
1/4 t. salt
1 t. baking soda
2 t. ground ginger
1 t. ground cinnamon
1/2 t. grated nutmeg
1/4 t. ground cloves
1/2 c. dark brown sugar
8 T. unsalted butter, softened plus 1 T. for frosting
2/3 c. Grandma's molasses
1 egg
1 c. powdered sugar
1 1/2 T. milk
1/4 t. vanilla extract

Cream together butter and sugar, until fluffy. Add molasses. In a separate bowl sift together flour, salt, baking soda and spices. Slowly blend into butter mixture. Wrap dough in saran wrap and refrigerate for two hours (up to one week).

Roll dough to about 1/4" inch thick. Using your favorite cookies cutters, like a gingerbread man, cut out cookies or make a house (need to at least double the recipe for a house). Bake in oven pre-heated to 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes.

Frosting:
1 c. powdered sugar
1 T. butter, softened
1 1/2 T. milk
1/4 t. vanilla extract

Blend thoroughly. Works best in an icing tube, but a knife will be fine, too.

Groceries:
flour
egg
salt
baking soda
ground ginger
ground cinnamon
grated nutmeg
ground cloves
dark brown sugar
unsalted butter
Grandma's molasses
powdered sugar
milk
vanilla extract

Approximate Cost: $6.75

Jefferson Davis Pie aka Kentucky Pie

2009-12-17T09:15:00.004-07:00

2 c. sugar
1 T. all-purpose flour
1. T. corn meal
1/4 t. salt
1/4 c. butter
1 t. vanilla
3/4 c. milk
4 eggs
1 pre-made pie shell (or recipe for pie crust here)

Place pie shell in pie plate, pressing down around the top edges with a fork or with your index finger.

Mix together in mixer: 2 c. sugar, 1 T. flour, 1 T. corn meal and 1/4 t. salt. Blend completely for 30 seconds. Add 1/4 c. butter, 1 t. vanilla, 3/4 c. milk and eggs--one at a time. Blend for one minute more.

Pour mixture into pie shell and bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes, until top is browned. (At high altitude, we turned the temperature down to 325 degrees.

Grocery List
sugar
flour
corn meal
salt
butter
vanilla
milk
eggs
pre-made pie crust

Approximate Cost: $3.88 (less if you make your own pie crust)

Christmas Cookie Edition: Christmas Wreaths

2009-12-14T16:46:00.005-07:00

1/2 c. unsalted butter
30 large marshmallows (3 cups)
1 1/2 t. green food coloring
1 t. vanilla extract
4 c. cornflakes
2 T. cinnamon red hots
non-stick spray

Coat a large stock pot with non-stick spray. Melt butter over low heat. Add in marshmallows and melt them over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and add in food coloring and vanilla.

Add in cornflakes and stir constantly until blended. With lightly greased fingers or a tablespoon, arrange cornflakes mixture into a small donut shape--a wreath with a hole in the center--on waxed paper. Before they cool, decorate with red hots (4-5 each wreath). May also attach red hots with a small dab of icing (from the Christmas sugar cookie recipe on the post below).

Grocery List:
unsalted butter
marshmallows
green food coloring
vanilla extract
cornflakes
cinnamon red hots
non-stick spray

Approximate Cost: $4.35

Christmas Cookie Edition: Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-12-14T16:46:00.004-07:00

2 sticks butter
2 eggs
2 T. molasses
2 t. vanilla
1/3 c. water
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 1/2 c brown sugar
1 t. baking powder
1 1/2 t baking soda
1 t salt
5 c. flour
18 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

Cream butter, add eggs, molasses, vanilla and water in mixer. Sift together dry ingredients (sugars, powder, soda, salt and flour). Mix moist with dry ingredients well in mixer. Add chips and stir a couple of times through. Rolls into 1" balls and cook at 375 degrees for 8 minutes or until light brown.

Grocery List:
butter
eggs
molasses
vanilla
water
sugar
brown sugar
baking powder
baking soda
salt
flour
semi-sweet chocolate chips

Approximate Cost: $6.25

Christmas Cookie Edition: Pfefferneuse

2009-12-14T16:45:00.002-07:00

1/2 c. butter
4 c. brown sugar
4 eggs
4 c. sifted flour
1 t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
1/2 t. salt
1 t. cloves
1 t. nutmeg
1 t. crushed cardamom (or 1/2 t. crushed black pepper)
1/2 c. crushed walnuts (or almonds)
1/2 c. mixed candied fruit (or candied ginger)
16 oz. can frozen OJ (not diluted)
granulated sugar

Cream butter and brown sugar. Add eggs, one at a time and beat. Sift together dry ingredients (flour, powder, soda, salt, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom and walnuts) and add to batter. Chill for 6 hours.

Roll 1/2 " thick. Cut each cookie 1" and rolls into round balls. Wrap in cellophane and freeze overnight. Dip one side into thawed OJ, then into sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

Best if kept in a container for about a week before sharing, as the flavor improves with age. Slice an apple to put into the container to keep the cookies softer.

Grocery List:
butter
brown sugar
eggs
sifted flour
baking powder
baking soda
salt
cloves
nutmeg
crushed cardamom
walnuts (alternate choice: almonds)
mixed candied fruit (alternate choice: candied ginger)
frozen OJ
granulated sugar

Approximate Cost: $8.65

Christmas Cookie Edition: Sugar Cookies

2009-12-14T16:44:00.002-07:00

3 eggs
2 sticks margarine
1 c. sugar
1 1/2 t. vanilla plus 1/2 t. vanilla for frosting
2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
3 1/2 c. flour
2 c. powdered sugar
2 T. butter, melted
3 T. milk

With mixer, cream together margarine and sugar until fluffy. Slowly add in eggs, one at a time. When blended completely, add in vanilla. Sift together flour salt and baking powder. Slowly add it to margarine mixture. Cover with saran wrap and chill for one hour.

Roll 1/4 of the dough about 1/4 inch thick on a dusted flour surface. Cut out with floured cookie cutters. Bake on cookie sheet at 350 degrees for 7 minutes. Cool.

Icing:
2 c. powdered sugar
2 t. butter, melted
3 T. milk
1/2 t. vanilla

Blend completely. Separate into divided bowls. Leave one white. Add 2-3 drops food coloring to make the whole palette of color choices. Also you may use gum drops, red hots and other candies to decorate. Be creative! Most of all, have fun!

Grocery List:
eggs
margarine
sugar
vanilla
baking powder
salt
flour
powdered sugar
butter
milk

Approximate Cost: $5.98

Christmas Cookie Edition: Biscotti

2009-12-14T16:42:00.003-07:00

9 c. sifted flour
2 c. sugar
1/3 c. baking powder
1 t. salt
1 1/2 c. shortening (24 T)
1 stick margarine plus 2 T. margarine, used separately
8 eggs
1 c. milk plus 2 T. used separately
2 T vanilla plus 1 t. used separately
2 c. powdered sugar

Cream 1 stick margarine and shortening. Add sugar, then eggs and 2 T. vanilla. Alternate the dry ingredients (flour, powder and salt) with 1 c. milk until the dough is easy to handle. When a good consistency, flour your hands and surface. Roll a handful of dough about 12" long, as round as a nickel. Cut at a slant about 2" for each cookie. Bake at 300 degrees for 10 minutes. Cool.

Icing: Mix together 2 T. melted margarine, 2 c. powdered sugar, 2 T. milk, 1 t. vanilla. Spread on or dip each cookie in the icing. From our dear friends, the Hunts. These are great gifts to give at Christmas-time with the recipe card attached!

Grocery List:
flour
sugar
baking powder
salt
shortening
margarine
eggs
milk
vanilla (This is my favorite vanilla to use for cooking, especially cookies!)
powdered sugar

Approximate Cost: $8.96

Christmas Cookie Edition: Potato Chip Cookies

2009-12-14T16:41:00.001-07:00

1 c. butter
1/2 c. sugar
1 t. vanilla
2 c. flour
1/2 c. crushed chips
1/2 c. chopped pecans
1/4 c. powdered sugar

Mix all together. Roll into balls. Bake 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees. Sprinkle with powdered sugar while hot. You can't beat sweet and salty together in one place like this! And you can't just eat one.

Grocery List:
butter
sugar
vanilla
flour
crushed chips
chopped pecans
powdered sugar

Approximate Cost: $ 4.24

Snow Cocoa

2009-12-07T11:31:00.006-07:00

6 c. milk
2 c. heavy cream or half and half
1 c. sugar
1 t. vanilla extract
1 - 4 oz. bar Ghiradelli white chocolate

On medium heat in a large stock pan, steam milk, cream, sugar and vanilla extract. Cut bar into little bits and add to the steaming mixture, stirring constantly for 5 minutes. Take off heat and serve with marshmallows in your favorite winter cup! Makes 6 cups

Grocery List
milk
heavy cream
sugar
vanilla extract
Ghiradelli white chocolate bar

Approximate Cost: $5.20

Turkey Rice Stew

2009-11-29T14:19:00.004-07:00

2 c. shredded turkey
8 c. water
8 bouillon cubes
1 c. minute rice
1/2 c. green chilies
6 carrots, diced
3 stalks celery, sliced
1/2 medium onion, diced
3 T. butter
4 T. heavy cream
1 can cream of mushroom soup

In a large stock pot, boil 8 c. water and bouillon cubes. Sauté onion, celery and carrots in melted butter for 5 minutes over medium heat. Add this mixture to boiling stock pot. Add rice, turkey, green chilies and can of cream of mushroom soup. Simmer for 20 minutes over medium heat. Lower heat to low and add heavy cream. Cook 5 minutes more. May add salt and pepper to taste.

Grocery List
turkey
chicken bouillon
carrots
celery
onion
butter
green chilies
heavy cream
cream of mushroom soup

Approximate Cost: $5.67

Thanksgiving Edition: Fudge Brownie Pie

2009-11-23T12:30:00.001-07:00

2 eggs
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. butter, melted
1/2 c. flour
1/3 c. Hershey's cocoa
1/4 t. salt
1 t. vanilla
1/2 c. pecans, chopped
1/2 gallon vanilla bean ice cream
hot fudge sauce

Beat eggs in small bowl, blend in sugar and butter. Stir in flour, cocoa and salt. Then add vanilla and nuts. Pour into lightly greased and floured 8 inch pie pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Cool and cut into wedges. Serve, topped with ice cream and hot fudge sauce.

Grocery List:
eggs
sugar
butter
flour
Hershey's cocoa
salt
vanilla
pecans
vanilla bean ice cream
hot fudge sauce

Approximate Cost: $5.50

Thanksgiving Edition: Peanut Butter Pie

2009-11-23T12:28:00.000-07:00

1 c. crunchy peanut butter
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 c. sugar
2 T. butter, melted
1 c. whipped topping
1 T. vanilla
1 graham cracker crust, 9 inch
Hershey's chocolate fudge topping to garnish

In a large bowl, mix together peanut butter, cream cheese, sugar, butter, whipped topping and vanilla. Pour into graham cracker crust. Refrigerate overnight. Top with hot fudge (Hershey's that is heated for about 1-2 minutes in the microwave--stop often and stir). Very, very rich! From "Lone Star Legacy," my very favorite cookbook ever.

Grocery List
crunchy peanut butter
cream cheese
sugar
butter
whipped topping
vanilla
graham cracker crust
Hershey's chocolate fudge

Approximate Cost: $4.78

Thanksgiving Edition: Twice Baked Potatoes

2009-11-23T12:27:00.001-07:00

6 large baking potatoes
1 stick margarine
6 slices bacon
1/2 c. sharp cheddar
6 green onions, chopped
3/4 t. salt
pepper to taste

Bake potatoes in oven on a cookie sheet at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

Cook bacon and drain. In a large mixing bowl add crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, cheddar, and butter. Blend slightly.

Then take the potatoes out of the oven. With a large knife, slice each length-wise. Holding half of the potato with a hot pad, take a large spoon and gently remove potatoes from skin. Put the potatoes into the mixing bowl. Try to leave about 1/8 inch of the potatoes in the bottom of the skin.

When complete, mash the ingredients in the bowl with a potato masher or can blend with a fork. I prefer not to use a hand blender, because I like to have the mixture chunky and not completely smooth.

Spoon potato mixture back into skins. Place on a cookie sheet in the oven and either broil on low or cook at 450 degrees for about 6-8 minutes. The tops of the potatoes should be just browned. Careful--don't walk away during this part. Keep a careful eye on that broiler or the tops may soon blacken.

Grocery list:
6 large baking potatoes
bacon
green onions
margarine
sharp cheddar
salt
pepper

Approximate cost: $5.87

Thanksgiving Edition: Cranberry Vinaigrette Salad

2009-11-23T12:26:00.000-07:00

2 bags Romain Lettuce
1 apple chopped (I dipped the apples and pears in lemon juice to reduce the browning)
1 pear chopped
1 c shredded Swiss cheese
1/4 c cranberries
1 c pine nuts ( I used roasted/salted sunflower seeds on Sunday)

1/3 c apple cider vinegar
2 tbs lemon juice,
2/3 c vegetable oil
1/2 c sugar
2 tbsp onion
1/2 tsp salt
3 tsp poppy seeds

Combine the lettuce, apple, pear, Swiss cheese, cranberries and pine nuts in salad bowl.

Whisk all the dressing ingredients (apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, vegetable oil, sugar, onion, salt and poppy seeds) together in separate bowl.

Toss with salad JUST BEFORE serving. It gets yucky if it sits around too long!
Enjoy! From Dori's friend, Heather H.

Grocery List
Romain Lettuce
apple
pear
Swiss cheese
cranberries
pine nuts (opt.: roasted/salted sunflower seeds)
apple cider vinegar
lemon juice,
vegetable oil
sugar
onion
salt
poppy seeds

Approximate Cost: $10:20

Thanksgiving Edition: Cajun Fried Turkey

2009-11-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

2 t. salt
1 T plus 2 t. cayenne, divided
10-12 lb turkey (fresh, not injected with butter or other seasonings)
4 T. unsalted butter, melted
3/4 c. onions, finely chopped
1/4 c. celery, finely chopped
3 T. minced garlic
2 T. ground pepper vinegar
1 T. plus 1 t. salt
1 t. black pepper
1/2 c. turkey (or chicken) broth
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
5 gallons peanut oil (can subst. vegetable oil)

Mix together 2 t. salt and 2 t. cayenne in a small bowl. Set aside this mixture to rub on turkey.

Combine melted butter with onions, celery, garlic, pepper vinegar, 1 T. salt, 1 T. cayenne, black pepper, broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Inject into turkey (with this). Rub salt/ cayenne mixture on the outside. Refrigerate overnight.

Fry the turkey, using a turkey fryer (like this), according to instructions and with the peanut oil. Heat oil to 400 degrees. Lower the turkey into the hot oil. Adjust the flame slightly down to maintain a temperature of 350 degrees. Oil should be hot enough to bubble during the frying, but not so hot that the turkey burns. Make sure that the turkey remains submerged or turn very carefully every 10-15 minutes. Let the turkey fry until the juices run clear--about 3 minutes per pound (about 35-45 minutes). The turkey will look very dark brown when it is done. Don't be afraid that it has burned; this is the right color. Carefully remove the turkey and place breast side down on the platter with paper towels. Let drain about 5 minutes, turn over and drain and cool for 15 minutes more before slicing. From Bessie Gartman.

Grocery List
salt
cayenne
turkey
unsalted butter
onions
celery
garlic
pepper vinegar
salt
black pepper
turkey broth
Worcestershire sauce
peanut oil

Approximate Cost: $11.29

Thanksgiving Edition: Oyster Dressing

2009-11-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

Turkey giblets (Don't know what they are? Click here.)
1 loaf of your favorite bread
1 medium onion, minced finely
1 t. salt
1 1/2 t. sage
3 eggs
1/8 t. pepper
1 container oysters, drain and reserve 2 T. of this liquid
1/2 c. drippings from the cooked turkey (drippings are the liquid at the bottom of the turley pan--the oils and juices from the turkey)

Boil giblets from turkey. Using the broth from this, lightly wet a loaf of bread and add, 1 finely minced onion, 1 t. salt, 1 1/2 t. sage, 3 eggs and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly. Gently add in 1 container of oysters with 2 T. of the liquid. Divide mixture in half and cook in two pie pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

In the middle of cooking, drip some turkey drippings on it to make a nice crust. A family Thanksgiving favorite!!

Grocery List:
Turkey (reserve the giblet bag and drippings)
bread
onion
salt
sage
3 eggs
pepper
oysters

Approximate Cost (just for the dressing, not the turkey): $7.85

Thanksgiving Edition: Newlywed Yeast Rolls

2009-11-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

1 c. warm water
1 pkg yeast
2 T. sugar
2 1/2 c. flour
1 t. salt
1 egg beaten
2 T. olive oil

Dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir in sugar and salt; add half of the flour. Add oil and egg. Beat until smooth, while adding remaining flour. Cover and let rise in a warm place 30 minutes.

Grease 12 muffin cups. Stir (punch) down dough and spoon into cups, filling half full. Let rise 20-30 minutes more. Bake at 400 degrees for 18-20 minutes. Serves 8-12.

Grocery list:
yeast
sugar
flour
salt
1 egg
olive oil

Approximate cost: $2.31

Thanksgiving Edition: Broccoli Rice Casserole

2009-11-23T12:22:00.000-07:00

3 T. butter
1/2 c. celery, finely chopped
1 - 8 1/2 oz. can water chestnuts, drained and chopped finely
1 c. Vidalia onion, chopped finely
2 pkgs. (10 oz. each) frozen chopped broccoli
1 c. rice, cooked
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 jar (8 oz.) Cheez Whiz

Melt butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Sauté onions, celery and water chestnuts for about 5-8 minutes or until the onions are translucent. Prepare broccoli according to package directions; drain. Prepare rice, according to package directions.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Pour into a buttered casserole dish and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. (May be prepared in advance and frozen before baking. To cook it frozen, bake at 300 degrees for one hour.)

Grocery List:
butter
celery
water chestnuts
Vidalia onion
frozen chopped broccoli
rice
cream of mushroom soup
cream of chicken soup
Cheez Whiz

Approximate Cost: $10.68

Thanksgiving Edition: Harvest Cranberry Sweet Potato Casserole

2009-11-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

3 1/2 lbs. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4 inch cubes
1 large onion, diced
olive oil or vegetable oil cooking spray
1 1/2 c. fresh cranberries (or frozen--do not thaw, if frozen)
2/3 c. light brown sugar
2 T. butter, melted
1/4 c. orange juice
3/4 t. salt
1 t. nutmeg
1/2 t. ground ginger
3/4 t. cinnamon
1 c. chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray two shallow baking dishes (about 9 X 13 each) with oil. Mix sweet potatoes and onions and place half in each prepared baking dish. Spray lightly with oil and bake until sweet potatoes are just tender about 20-25 minutes. In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients and mix well. Stir in sweet potato mixture. Place mixture in two freezer bags. Freeze, using freezer bag method.

On serving day, slightly defrost or thaw to a slushy state. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place potato/ cranberry mixture in two 9 by 11 inch baking dishes. Bake uncovered about 30-40 minutes or until tender and slightly sticky. Stir once during cooking. From Don't Panic More
Dinner's in the Freezer.

Grocery List
sweet potatoes
onion
vegetable. olive oil spray
cranberries
light brown sugar
butter
orange juice
salt
nutmeg
ginger
cinnamon
pecans

Approximate Cost: $10.45

Leek Potato Soup

2009-11-02T09:24:00.002-07:00

1 leek, washed in warm water, dark green cut off and thrown away, rest chopped
1/2 medium onion, chopped
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 c. hot water
4 chicken bouillon cubes
1 stick butter
1 c. milk
1 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper

Melt 5 T. butter in stock pot. Sauté chopped leeks (light green and white parts only) and onions for 10 minutes over medium heat. Add hot water and bouillon cubes, potatoes, salt and pepper. Simmer over medium high heat for 25 minutes. With a potato masher, mash the mixture in the pot until the potatoes are chunky, not completely mashed. Add milk and rest of butter (3 T.) with heat on low, cook for 5 minutes more.

Grocery List
leek
potatoes
onion
pepper
salt
butter
milk
chicken bouillon cubes

Approximate Cost: $4.22

Cinnamon Rolls

2009-10-16T14:13:00.003-06:00

2 pkgs. yeast
3 c. flour plus 1/2 c. separated plus 4 c. also separate
1 c. sugar
2 t. salt
2 c. milk
1/2 c. water
1 c. margarine plus 16 T. separated plus scant amount for greasing bowl
4 eggs
2 T. lemon juice
1 c. cinnamon sugar mixture (made from 4 t. cinnamon and 1 c. sugar) in a shaker (I like this one.)

Thoroughly mix undissolved yeast with 3 c. flour, 1 c. sugar, 2 t. salt. In a sauce pan heat 2 c. milk over low heat and add 1/2 c. water and 1 c. margarine. Heat to 125 degrees. Add liquid mixture to dry mixture. Beat for two minutes at medium speed, scraping the bowl occasionally.

Add 1/2 c. flour, 4 eggs, 2 T. lemon juice. Stir in additional 4 c. flour. Knead on lightly floured surface (or pastry cloth) for about 8 minutes. Place in a lightly greased bowl, turning the ball of dough to grease the top. Cover with warm damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 2 hours).

Punch down. For each handful of dough, into a 1/2 inch thick rectangle. Spread 2 T. melted margarine and sprinkle 1/8 c. cinnamon sugar mixture. Roll up in jelly-roll fashion and slice about 1" in length. Place in greased pan, cut side down. Makes four pans.

Let rise again until double in size. Cook at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

Remove from pan and drizzle with frosting made from 2 c. powdered sugar, 2-4 T. milk and 1 t. vanilla. Needs to be of consistency to pour from spoon. From an old family friend, Edna Stevens.

Grocery List
yeast
flour
sugar
salt
milk
margarine
eggs
lemon juice
cinnamon

Approximate Cost: $9.25

Migas

2009-10-16T14:07:00.002-06:00

8 corn tortillas, cut in 8 wedges each
12 eggs, slightly beaten
8 bacon slices
4 green onions, sliced thin
12 cherry tomatoes, cut in halves
2 fresh jalapenos, sliced with seeds removed
1 c. grated cheddar cheese

In a skillet, brown bacon, remove from pan and cut in small bits and set aside. Fry tortillas in bacon fat until crisp. Add remaining ingredients and bacon all at once. Scramble until eggs are firm. Serve with hot flour tortillas and refried beans. From "The Siesta Fiesta Cookbook" by Melanie.

Grocery List
corn tortillas
eggs
bacon
green onions
cherry tomatoes
jalapenos
cheddar cheese

Approximate Cost: $7.29

Apple-Craisin French Toast Casserole

2009-10-07T16:07:00.002-06:00

1 c. brown sugar
1 t. ground cinnamon plus 2 t. separated
1/2 c. butter, melted
3 apples, cored, peeled and sliced
1/2 c. Craisins
1 - 1lb. loaf French baguette, cut into 1 inch slices
6 eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/2 c. milk
1 T. vanilla

Grease a 9 X 13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together brown sugar and 1 t. cinnamon. Mix in melted butter. Stir in apples and Craisins until evenly coated. Pour into prepared pan. Arrange bread slices in an even layer over apples.

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla and 2 t. cinnamon. Pour evenly over bread, fully soaking each slice. Cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight.

In morning, preheat oven at 375 degrees. Remove dish from refrigerator while oven is heating. Bake covered for 40 minutes. Remove cover and bake 5 minutes more. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. May use maple syrup, if you want! From "The Siesta Fiesta Cookbook" by Sophie, who got it from Allrecipes.com.

Grocery List
brown sugar
cinnamon
butter
apples
Craisins
French baguette
eggs
milk
vanilla

Approximate Cost: $6.40

Killer Queso

2009-08-28T10:56:00.002-06:00

1 can cream of chicken soup
¾ c. evaporated milk
1 - 7 oz. can diced green chilies
2 T. minced jalapeños
1 - 4 oz. jar chopped pimientos, drained
1 t. ground cumin
1 - 1 oz. pkg. ranch dip mix
1 can Ro*tel tomatoes
1 lb. Velveeta, cut into cubes
¼ c. minced fresh cilantro
Minced fresh cilantro for garnish
Tortilla Chips for dipping

Combine soup, evaporated milk, green chilies, jalapenos, pimiento, cumin, dip mix, and Ro*tel in a medium saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently. When bubbly, add cheese and cilantro, and stir until cheese melts and mixture is combined. Be sure to keep the heat low, and stir constantly after adding the cheese to prevent scorching. Serve warm with tortilla, reheating as needed.

From Molly Fowler, The Dining Diva, in Menus for Entertaining

Grocery List
cream of chicken soup
evaporated milk
green chilies
jalapeños
pimiento
ground cumin
ranch dip packet
Ro*tel tomatoes
Velveeta
cilantro
tortilla chips

Approximate Cost: $7.89

Broccoli Rice Casserole (Freezer Method)

2009-08-18T19:21:00.003-06:00

4 c. fresh broccoli florets
1/2 c. butter, melted
1/4 c. chopped onion
1 - 10 oz. can of cream of mushroom soup
8 oz. Velveeta, cubed
1 c. cooked rice

In a large covered sauce pan, cook broccoli in small amount of boiling water for 6-8 minutes. Drain and sauté onion in melted butter for 2-3 minutes. Add soup, cheese broccoli and rice. Mix well. Place in lined 9X13 inch baking dish and freeze, using foil and plastic.

On serving day, unwrap and return to original baking dish. Thaw completely. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until heated through. From Don't Panic More Dinner's in the Freezer.

Grocery List
broccoli
butter
onion
cream of mushroom soup
Velveeta
rice

Approximate Cost: $5.15

Four Corners Refried Beans

2009-08-18T19:17:00.003-06:00

1 lb. bacon
3 c. uncooked pinto beans
7 c. water
1 1/2 c. chopped onion
4 cloves garlic
1 T. salt (to start)
1-2 c. fresh or canned green chilies, diced

Fry bacon until crisp. Crumble and drain, reserving half of the bacon grease. Place bacon, remainder of ingredients and reserved bacon grease in the crock pot and cover.

Cook beans on high for 1 hour, then reduce to low for 10 hours. Cool and then mash pinto beans, in batches using a potato masher. Add more salt to taste.

Cool mashed beans completely and freeze using the freezer method. From Don't Panic More Dinner's in the Freezer.

Grocery List
bacon
pinto beans
onion
garlic
salt
green chilies

Approximate Cost: $4.68

Harvest Sweet Potato Cranberry Casserole

2009-08-18T19:07:00.003-06:00

Chicken Marsala

2009-08-18T18:52:00.002-06:00

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 c. butter
1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 c. fresh mushrooms, finely sliced
1 1/4 c. Marsala wine
1 c. chicken broth
3/4 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
1 c. fresh Parmesan cheese

Pound chicken to 1/4 inch thickness. Dredge chicken in flour and then sauté in 1/2 c. melted butter, 3-4 minutes per side. Place chicken breasts in a lined 9 X 13 inch baking dish, overlapping edges. In separate sauce pan, sauté mushrooms in remaining 1/2 c. butter until tender. Then spoon over chicken. Stir wine and chicken broth into skillet containing chicken drippings. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add salt and pepper spoon sauce over chicken. Cool completely, then freeze using foil and plastic wrap method.

On the serving day, place chicken in original baking dish and thaw completely (I'd leave it overnight in the refrigerator to do this). Bake chicken at 450 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over chicken and broil on high heat for 1-2 minutes, until cheeses are lightly browned. From Don't Panic More Dinner's in the Freezer.

Grocery List
chicken breasts
butter
flour
fresh mushrooms
Marsala wine
chicken broth
salt
pepper
mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese

Approximate Cost: $8.49

Bombay Chicken Curry

2009-08-18T18:46:00.002-06:00

1/2 c. butter, melted
1 c. onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 c. flour
2 T. curry powder
1 t/ salt
1/4 t. pepper
1/4 t. ground ginger
1/4 t. cayenne pepper
3 c. water
2 c. cooked chicken, chopped

In a medium sauce pan, sauté onion and garlic in butter. Add flour, curry, salt, pepper, ginger and cayenne. Continue cooking and stirring over medium heat until smooth. Add water and cooked chicken; simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce is bubble and slightly thickened. Cool completely; freeze, using the freezer bag method.

On the serving day, thaw completely. Reheat over medium heat until heated through. Serve over rice with desired variety of toppings, such as mandarin oranges, banana slices, raisins, dry roasted peanuts, steamed snow peas, pineapples chunks or flaked coconut. From Don't Panic More Dinner's in the Freezer.

Grocery List
butter
onion
garlic
flour
curry powder
salt
pepper
ground ginger
cayenne pepper
water
chicken

Approximate Cost: $4.89

Elegant Cream of Mushroom Soup

2009-08-18T18:23:00.002-06:00

1 lb. mushrooms
1/2 c. chopped shallots
2 cloves chopped garlic
2 stalks chopped celery
1/2 c. unsalted butter, divided
1/2 c. flour
6 c.hot chicken broth
1/2 c. dry cooking sherry
3/4 c.whipping cream
1/4 t. cayenne pepper (opt)
1/2 t. salt
1/8 t. pepper

Finely chop, half the mushrooms. Slice the remaining half. Sauté shallots, celery, and garlic in half the butter until tender. Add finely chopped mushrooms and sauté until tender, but not brown. Add flour and stir with a wooden spoon until a smooth paste has formed. Reduce heat and cook for three minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add hot chicken broth, stirring constantly with a whisk. Bring to a boil and simmer 10 minutes. In a separate pan, sauté the sliced mushrooms in remaining butter. Add cooking sherry. Cook until liquid is reduced by approximately half. Add sliced mushrooms to the soup. Simmer 10 more minutes. Add whipping cream and season to taste with cayenne, salt and pepper. Cool completely and freeze, using freezer bag method.

On the serving day, thaw soup to slushy consistency. Place in sauce pan and heat through, but do not allow soup to boil. From Don't Panic More Dinner's in the Freezer.

Grocery List
mushrooms
shallots
garlic
celery
unsalted butter
flour
chicken broth
dry cooking sherry
whipping cream
cayenne pepper (opt)
salt
pepper

Approximate Cost: $5.35

Cynthia's Peanut Noodle Salad

2009-07-17T14:47:00.002-06:00

2 large cucumbers
1/8 t. ginger
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup Sesame salad dressing from Costco
1/2 cup chunky peanut butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (16-ounce) whole wheat angel hair pasta, cooked
1 red bell pepper, cut into matchsticks
4 oz. shredded fresh carrots
6 green onions, cut diagonally into 1 1/2-inch pieces

Peel cucumbers; cut in half lengthwise, removing and discarding seeds. Cut cucumber halves into half-moon-shaped slices.

Whisk together soy sauce, ginger, coconut milk, sesame dressing, chunky peanut butter, garlic, crushed red pepper, salt and sesame oil in a large bowl; add cucumber, pasta, carrot, red bell pepper and onions, tossing to coat. Cover and chill 8 hours, if desired. (Optional: Add bean sprouts and chicken, cabbage, snow peas, asparagus, zucchini, hard boiled egg, shrimp, pork or beef.) Garnish with cilantro and crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds. Yummy! From my friend and neighbor, Cynthia.

Grocery List
cucumbers
ginger
soy sauce
coconut milk
Asian salad dressing
chunky peanut butter
garlic
sesame oil
crushed red pepper
salt
whole wheat angel hair pasta
red bell pepper
carrots
green onions

Approximate Cost: $5.25

Homemade Peach Ice Cream

2009-07-17T14:44:00.001-06:00

6 cups ripe peaches, peeled and puréed
6 eggs, lightly beaten
2-1/2 c. sugar
2 T. all-purpose flour
1 T. vanilla extract
1/8 t. salt
4 c. whole milk
3 c. heavy cream

In a blender, purée 6 c. of the peaches. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, vanilla and salt until well blended. Set aside.

In a large, heavy saucepan over low heat, heat the milk and cream, just until it begins to steam. Slowly add the bowl of the egg mixture. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is thick and smooth. Remove from heat and add the puréed peaches. Stir well. Refrigerate overnight.

Pour into a large ice cream maker and follow the directions for your machine. If you like fruit chunks, instead of puréeing all the peaches, only do half and add 3 cups of chopped peaches about 15 minutes before the cycle is done.

Grocery List
peaches
eggs
sugar
flour
vanilla extract
salt
whole milk
heavy cream

Approximate Cost: $6.49

Stromboli

2009-07-14T10:41:00.004-06:00

1 pkg. frozen loaf bread dough with three loaves
3 T. flour
1 1/2 lb. ground chuck, cooked completely
1 small pkg. pepperoni
1 pkg. sliced roast beef (in the lunch meat dept.)
1 pkg. sliced turkey
1 pkg. sliced ham
1 pkg. Genoa salami (optional)
9 slices cheddar cheese (we like sharp)
9 slices provolone cheese
9 slices Colby cheese
1 1/2 c. Parmesan cheese

Let frozen loaves rise according to package. Roll each loaf out flat in a rectangular shape (about 12 by 4 inches on 3 T. flour that is spread out on the surface. In the center of the dough (with an inch and a half-edge exposed all around), layer 8 oz. cooked hamburger, 9 sliced pepperoni, 3 slices Colby, 7-8 slices roast beef, 3 slices cheddar, 7-8 slices turkey, 5 slices salami, 3 slices provolone, 7-8 slices ham.

Fold dough over to cover the whole length of it--pinch it together carefully, trying not to have any holes in the dough covering. Pinch both ends together and fold once or twice.

Flip the roll over onto a greased cookie sheet. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese on top.

Repeat the above for the other two rolls (each with a separate cookie sheet). Let dough rise for one hour in warm oven (110 degrees).

Cook for 30-35 minutes at 350 degrees. Slice and serve with marinara sauce. Serves 15-20 people.

Grocery List
frozen loaf bread dough
flour
ground chuck
pepperoni
roast beef
turkey
ham
Genoa salami
cheddar cheese
provolone cheese
Colby cheese
Parmesan cheese

Approximate Cost: $22.35

Seafood Gumbo by Elaine

2009-07-06T17:28:00.002-06:00

2 small bell peppers, one orange and one yellow
1 yellow onion
8-10 green onions
1 stalk of celery
3-4 cloves of garlic
1 1/2 lbs. chicken breasts
1 lb. shrimp.
¾ lb. Earl Campbell’s link sausage
3 T. canola oil
3 T. flour
3-4 c. hot water
2-3 T. of Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning
1 T. soy sauce
½ T. ground red pepper
1 1/2 lbs. okra
1 c. diced and pureed tomatoes
2 c. minute rice, cooked using chicken broth instead of water

Use a heavy duty 6-8 quart pot.
Ahead of time tasks:
A. Chop into small pieces, then microwave with ½ cup of water till tender:
2 bell peppers
1 yellow onion
8-10 green onions
1 stalk of celery
3-4 cloves of garlic
B. Cook 1-1.5 pounds of chicken breast in water until done. Cut into small pieces.
C. Peel 1 pound of Gulf shrimp. Refrigerate shrimp until needed. Boil down shrimp shells in 2 cups of water (about 30 minutes) to make shrimp stock.
D. Cut ¾ pound Earl Campbell’s link sausage (not the hot type) into half slices. Brown slices in skillet and drain off grease.

Make the roux: Add 3T of canola oil to your pot and heat on medium high till hot. Stir in 3T of flour and stir constantly until it is a deep brown (almost but not burned). Reduce heat to medium and quickly add 3-4 cups of hot water. Stir well when steaming stops. Flavor the roux with 2-3T of Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning, 1T soy sauce, and ½-1T ground red pepper. Allow to cook (covered) for 15 minutes.

Add microwaved veggies. Add okra (1-1.5 pounds) and one cup diced and pureed tomatoes. Continue cooking 20-30 minutes.

Add cooked chicken breasts and the shrimp stock. Add sausage and cook on medium for 30 minutes. Add shrimp and cook 20 minutes. Taste and add more Tony’s, red and black pepper if needed.

Serve over hot rice. From my dear friend Cathy C.

Grocery List
bell peppers, one orange and one yellow
yellow onion
green onions
celery
garlic
chicken breasts
shrimp
link sausage
canola oil
flour
Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning
soy sauce
red pepper.
okra
tomatoes
minute rice

Approximate Cost: $11.89

Lemonade

2009-07-06T12:13:00.003-06:00

1 1/2 c. sugar
1 T. finely grated lemon peel
1 1/2 c. hot water
1 1/2 c. lemon juice (8-10 lemons)
6 c. cold water
ice cubes

About 2 hours up to one week before, prepare syrup: In a one quart jar with tight fitting lid, shake sugar and lemon peel with 1 1/2 c. very hot water, until sugar is dissolved. Add lemon juice. Refrigerate.

To make lemonade: In a 2 1/2 quart pitcher, combine half of the syrup with 6 c. cold water. Pour over ice cubes into each glass. (May substitute lime peels and lime juice in same proportion to make limeade.)

Grocery List
sugar
lemons

Approximate Cost: $4.23

Fried Okra

2009-06-25T12:17:00.002-06:00

16 pods okra
2 c. yellow cornmeal
2 T. flour
3 t. salt
1/2 t. pepper
1/4 c. cold water in a spray bottle
1 1/2 c. bacon drippings

Slice okra into 1/4 inch slices. Sprinkle okra with cold water. Mix together corn meal, salt and pepper. Coat okra thoroughly with mixture. Remove from mixture and deep fry in large stock pot or deep fryer in 2 inches bacon drippings until golden brown. Serves 8. From "Big Mama's Old Black Pot" cookbook--doubled the recipe for folks who eat okra like we do!

Grocery List
bacon (for drippings)--use bacon for this recipe, it's great!
okra
cornmeal
salt
pepper

Approximate Cost: $3.83

Peanut Butter Pie

2009-06-23T11:16:00.002-06:00

Grilled Stuffed Bantams

2009-06-04T10:00:00.003-06:00

8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (flattened in a butterfly shape)
1 1/2 t. salt, separated
1/2 t. MSG (opt.)
1 egg, beaten
1 c. Stove Top stuffing mix
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can crab meat, drained
1/2 c. canola oil
1 t. Kitchen Bouquet
1/4 c. green pepper, chopped
1 T. lemon juice
2 t. Worcestershire sauce
1 t. prepared mustard
1/2 medium onion, very finely chopped
1/8 t. ground black pepper

Sprinkle inside of chicken breasts with 1 1/4 t. salt and MSG In a large bowl mix together 1 egg, 1 c. Stove Top stuffing mix, 1/2 can cream of mushroom soup, 1 can crab meat,1/4 c. green pepper, 1 T. lemon juice, 2 t. Worcestershire sauce,1 t. prepared mustard and 1/4 t. salt. Top half of each breast with 1/8 of the filling mixture. Skewer each breast closed (fold in half).

Basting Sauce:
Combine 1/2 can cream of mushroom soup, 1/4 c. oil, 1 t. Kitchen Bouquet, 1/2 medium onion and 1/8 t. black pepper.

Broil chicken over hot coals for 30 minutes or until tender, turning frequently. During the last 15 minutes, brush with basting sauce. From "Lone Star Legacy"

Grocery List
chicken breasts
salt
MSG
egg
Stove Top stuffing mix
cream of mushroom soup
crab meat
canola oil
Kitchen Bouquet
green pepper
lemon juice
Worcestershire sauce
prepared mustard
onion
black pepper

Approximate Cost: $10.98

Grilled Tomatoes

2009-06-04T09:52:00.004-06:00

10 large firm ripe tomatoes
4 c. finely grated dry French bread crumbs
4-6 T butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 green onions, minced
2 t. dried oregano, crushed
1 t. salt
1/8 t. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cut tops off tomatoes and scoop out pulp, save for another recipe (like MaryAnn's Hot Sauce!). Combine remaining ingredients. Fill the tomato shells and bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes. Sprinkle Parmesan evenly on top of each and then place under broiler just until golden on top. Serves 10. From "Lone Star Legacy"

Grocery List
tomatoes
French bread
butter
garlic
green onions
dried oregano
salt
black pepper
Parmesan cheese

Approximate Cost: $8.42

Flour Tortillas From Scratch

2009-06-02T13:19:00.004-06:00

3 c. flour plus scant amount for hands and surface

2 t. salt

2 T. baking powder

1/3 c. butter, melted

1 c. hot water

In a large bowl, add flour, salt, baking powder and butter. Stir together thoroughly, until the mixture is crumbly. Slowly add hot water, stirring together. Flour hands and knead mixture for 2 minutes. Divide into 8 balls. Cover with damp paper towel for 30 minutes.

Flour surface and roll out each ball. Cook over medium high heat in iron skillet that is cured. Brown on both sides and set aside in a warmed plate.

Grocery List

flour

salt

baking powder

butter

Approximate Cost: $2.13

Rice Cakes

2009-06-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

1 c. rice, cooked
2 c. heavy cream
1 1/2 c. flour
1/2 t. salt
1 1/4 T sugar
2 t. baking powder
1 egg
1 T. shortening (melted)
2 T. canola oil

Cover cooked rice with 1 c. cream and let sit in refrigerator. Sift dry ingredients. Mix egg, 1 c. cream and shortening in a separate container. Alternating, add small amounts of dry ingredients and liquid mixture into rice and cream. Drop from spoon into a skillet heated to medium high with 2 T. canola oil. Allow to brown on both sides. Serve warm syrup over cakes. From Big Mama's Old Black Pot.

Grocery List
rice
heavy cream
flour
salt
sugar
baking powder
egg
shortening
canola oil

Approximate Cost: $4.79

Potato Patties

2009-06-01T14:34:00.004-06:00

2 c. leftover mashed potatoes
2 t. chopped green onions
1 egg
1/4 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1/2 t. paprika
1/2 c. grated sharp cheddar
2 T. butter

Combine all ingredients except butter. Heat 2 T. butter in a skillet over medium heat. Make small balls of the potato mixture. Brown in butter and serve while hot. From Big Mama's Old Bleck Pot.

Grocery List
mashed potatoes
green onions
egg
salt
pepper
paprika
cheddar cheese
butter

Approximate Cost: $3.49

Shrimp Fondue

2009-05-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

2 cans cream of shrimp
6 oz. sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 c. milk
2 cans shrimp
1/4 t. chipotle Tobasco sauce
1/2 c. white wine

In medium saucepan over medium low heat, blend together soup, shrimp, milk, Tobasco and white wine until heated through (about 8 minutes). Turn heat down to low and slowly stir in cheddar, stirring constantly until melted. May want to transfer to warm fondue pot or crock pot. Enjoy with crackers or chips (our favorite is Nabisco's Triscuit crackers--baked, whole grain wheat with fire-roasted tomato).

Grocery List
cream of shrimp
shrimp
sharp cheddar cheese
milk
Tobasco
white wine

Approximate Cost: $7.86

Morton's Favorite Green Beans

2009-05-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

2 cans green beans (Italian style is our favorite)
2 pieces bacon cooked and crumbled, reserving bacon grease
2 T. bacon grease
4 T. minced onions
1 garlic clove minced
4 T. teriyaki sauce
1/2 t. salt
1/8 t. pepper

In a medium sauce pan, add beans, bacon grease, onions, garlic, teriyaki, salt and pepper. Cover and cook over medium low heat for 10 minutes until mixture is simmering. Serve in a casserole dish with bacon crumbles on top.

Grocery List
green beans
bacon
minced onions
garlic
teriyaki
salt
pepper

Approximate Cost: $3.49

Spiced Carrots Polynesian

2009-05-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

2 T. butter
1/2 c. pineapple juice
1 T. brown sugar
1/2 t. ground nutmeg
1/4 t. salt
1/8 t. white pepper
4 c. sliced carrots
1 medium onion, sliced in rings
2 T. fresh parsley

Melt butter in stock pot over medium heat. Add juice, brown sugar, nutmeg, salt, pepper, onions and carrots. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. When boiling, reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer for 12 minutes longer. Transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with parsley.

Grocery List
butter
pineapple juice
brown sugar
ground nutmeg
salt
white pepper
carrots
onions
parsley

Approximate Cost: $4.35

Mrs. Lamb's Potato Soup

2009-05-04T15:23:00.003-06:00

4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 c. water
2 carrots, cut in small pieces
1/2 onion, diced
1 stick butter
1 can pet milk (evaporated milk)
1 t. salt
1/8. t black pepper, freshly ground

In a large stock pot bring water to a boil. Add potatoes, carrots and onions and boil for 20 minutes over medium high heat. Turn heat down to low and add butter and pet milk. Cook 5 minutes more before serving. May add garnish of green onions, shredded cheddar, bacon or freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Grocery List
potatoes
carrots
onion
butter
pet milk
salt
black pepper

Approximate Cost: $3.78

Swiss Vegetable Medley

2009-05-04T14:55:00.002-06:00

1 - 16 oz. bag of frozen broccoli, carrots and cauliflower, thawed and drained
1 can cream of mushroom
1 c. Swiss cheese, shredded
1/2 c. sour cream
1/4 t. black pepper, freshly ground
1 small jar chopped pimientos
1 - 28 oz. can French fried onions

In a large bowl, combine vegetables soup, 1/2 c. cheese, sour cream pepper, pimientos and 1/2 can French fried onions. Blend together and pour into 1 qt. casserole dish. Bake covered in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. Top with remaining cheese and onions. Bake uncovered 5 minutes longer.

Grocery List
frozen broccoli, carrots and cauliflower
cream of mushroom
Swiss cheese
sour cream
black pepper
pimientos
can French fried onions

Approximate Cost: $6.59

Wonton Soup

2009-05-02T20:50:00.002-06:00

6 chicken breasts
9 c. water
1 onion chopped
4 stalks celery, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 t. salt
1 t. garlic pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 t. basil
1/8 t. black pepper
8 sliced bacon, cooked
1 small carton mushrooms, sliced
1 pint baby spinach leaves
4 green onions, sliced
2 T. butter
1 package wonton wrappers
8 T. soy sauce

Boil chicken in water with onion, celery, red bell pepper, salt, garlic pepper, garlic cloves, black pepper and basil for 45 minutes in a large stock pot over medium high heat. Scoop out chicken with slotted spoon and let cool.

In a medium sauce pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and green onions. Sauté for 5 minutes and remove from heat. Add crumbled bacon to this mixture. Fold one spoonful into each wonton wrapper and fold in each side thoroughly.

Chop chicken and add to chicken broth in the stock pot. Also add the spinach. Heat over medium heat for 10 minutes more until hot and bubbly. Gently drop wontons into stock pot, one at a time. Cook 10 minutes more. Turn down heat to low and gently stir in soy sauce.

Grocery List
chicken breasts
onion
celery
red bell pepper
salt
garlic pepper
garlic cloves
basil
black pepper
bacon
mushrooms
baby spinach leaves
green onions
butter
wonton wrappers
soy sauce

Approximate Cost: $8.79

Southwestern Salsa with Black Beans and Corn

2009-04-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

1 ½ tsp. cumin seeds
2 – 15 oz. cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 - 15 ¼ oz. can whole kernel corn, drained
1 red pepper, minced
1 small purple onion, minced (1 c.)
½ c. chopped fresh cilantro
½ c. chopped fresh parsley
1/3 c. lime juice
¼ c. olive oil
3 cloves garlic, crushed
½ t. salt
1 t. dried crushed red pepper
½ t. freshly ground black pepper

Toast cumin seeds in a skillet over medium heat 1 to 2 minutes or until brown and fragrant, stirring often. Combine cumin seeds, black beans, and remaining ingredients; toss well. Fix this ahead of time (2-3 hours) to allow the flavors to meld. Cover and store in refrigerator up to 1 week. Yield 6 cups. Per tablespoon: Calories 18 Fat 0.7 g (Before you spoon it onto the tortilla chips!) From The Ultimate Southern Living Cookbook

Grocery List
cumin seeds
black beans
whole kernel corn
red pepper
purple onion
fresh cilantro
fresh parsley
lime juice
olive oil
garlic
salt
crushed red pepper
black pepper

Approximate Cost: $4.33

Asian Style Dip

2009-04-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

½ c. mayonnaise
¼ c. sour cream
2 T. soy sauce
½ T. dried basil
1 T. sesame oil
1 T. toasted sesame seeds
1 T. rice vinegar
¼ t. dried ginger
1 t. sugar
½ t. dry mustard
1/8 t. ground red pepper
Assorted cut-up vegetables (carrots, red bell peppers, sugar snap peas, cucumber, broccoli, etc.)

Combine first 11 ingredients in a small bowl; whisk to blend.
Cover and refrigerate. From Sophie in the Siesta Fiesta Cookbook.

Grocery List
mayonnaise
sour cream
soy sauce
dried basil
sesame oil
toasted sesame seeds
rice vinegar
dried ginger
sugar
dry mustard
ground red pepper
vegetables

Approximate Cost: $7.20

Chicken-Chile Tostadas

2009-04-25T08:00:00.001-06:00

1 T. olive oil
1 c. pre-chopped onion
1 t. bottled minced garlic
½ t. ground cumin
½ t. ground chipotle chile pepper
¼ t. ground cinnamon
1 lb. ground chicken breast
½ c. bottled fat-free salsa
¼ c. water
½ t. salt
2 T. chopped fresh cilantro
1 t. lime juice
4 – 6" corn tortillas
1 c. shredded iceberg lettuce
1 c. (4 oz.) pre-shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese
¼ c. reduced-fat sour cream

Preheat oven to 400°. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté 2 minutes or until onion begins to soften. Add cumin, chipotle, and cinnamon; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Add chicken; cook 4 minutes or until chicken is done, stirring to
crumble. Add salsa, water, and salt; cook 3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Stir in cilantro and lime juice; remove from heat.

While chicken cooks, place tortillas directly on oven rack; bake at 400° for 5 minutes or until slightly crisp. Place 1 tortilla on each of 4 plates; top each tortilla with ¼ cup lettuce, ¾ cup chicken mixture, ¼ cup cheese, and 1 tablespoon sour cream. By Meghan from the Siesta Fiesta Cookbook.

Grocery List
olive oil
onion
minced garlic
cumin
chipotle chile pepper
cinnamon
chicken breast
salsa
salt
chopped fresh cilantro
lime juice
corn tortillas
iceberg lettuce
Mexican cheese blend
sour cream

Approximate Cost: $5.75

Veggie Squares

2009-04-24T21:04:00.001-06:00

2 Pillsbury crescent rolls
1 bar cream cheese, softened at room temperature
1 pkg. Hidden Valley Ranch dip mix
pre-made salad mix of broccoli, carrots and cauliflower, chopped

Flatten and pinch together crescent rolls on a cookie sheet in a rectangular shape. Cook according to package directions in the oven. Cool.

In a small bowl, blend cream cheese and Hidden Ranch dip mix. Spread over crescent rolls.

Sprinkle chopped veggies on top. Cut into squares and cool in refrigerator for 1 hour. By Patty.

Grocery List
crescent rolls
cream cheese
Hidden Valley Ranch dip mix
pre-made salad mix of broccoli, carrots and cauliflower

Approximate Cost: $5.15

Better than Sex Cake

2009-04-24T13:00:00.003-06:00

1 box butter cake mix
4 eggs
1/4 c. oil
1/4 c. water
6 oz. chocolate chips
1 small box instant vanilla pudding
1 - 8 oz. carton sour cream
3/4 c. chopped pecans

Mix all together in mixer. Pour into a greased and floured bundt pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Frost as desired. From Mary Ann.

Grocery List
butter cake mix
eggs
oil
chocolate chips
instant vanilla pudding
sour cream
pecans

Approximate Cost: $ 5.35

Plum Pie

2009-04-24T06:00:00.000-06:00

1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 c. plus 1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. milk
1/2 t. baking powder
2 c. plums, pitted
1/2 stick butter

In sauce pan boil plums, 1 1/2 c. sugar and butter for two minutes. Pour into 9X11 inch baking dish. Blend together flour, 1/2 c. sugar, milk and baking powder. Drop by teaspoonfuls over plum mixture. Bake in 350 degree oven for 35 minutes.

Grocery List
flour
sugar
milk
baking powder
plums
butter

Approximate Cost: $5.89

Scotch-a-Roos

2009-04-23T13:00:00.003-06:00

1 c. sugar
1 c. peanut butter
1 c. light corn syrup
1 T. butter
6 c. crispy rice cereal
12 oz. chocolate chips
12 oz. butterscotch chips

Frosting: In a pyrex glass container, melt chips in microwave for 1 minute. Stir and melt for 30 seconds more.

In a large sauce pan, blend sugar, peanut butter and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat until the sugar melts, about one minute. Remove from heat and add 6 cups cereal, stirring completely and covering all cereal. Pour and press cereal into a buttered 9X13 inch baking dish. Frost.

Grocery List
sugar
peanut butter
light corn syrup
butter
crispy rice cereal
chocolate chips
butterscotch chips

Approximate Cost: $5.60

No Bake Cookies

2009-04-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

2 c. sugar
2 T. cocoa
1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. peanut butter
1/2 c. butter
3 c. oatmeal
1/2 t. vanilla

Boil sugar, cocoa and milk for one minute in a large sauce pan over medium high heat. Add peanut butter and butter, stirring until butter is melted. Add in oatmeal and vanilla. Drop by teaspoonfuls over wax paper. Let cool and serve.

Grocery List
sugar
cocoa
milk
peanut butter
butter
oatmeal
vanilla

Approximate Cost: $5.20

Mississippi Mud Cake

2009-04-22T13:00:00.001-06:00

2 sticks butter plus 1/2 stick butter separated
1/2 c. cocoa plus 1/2 c. cocoa separated
2 c. sugar
4 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 c. flour
1/8 t. salt
1 1/2 c. pecans, chopped
1 t. vanilla
1 c. small marshmallows
1 lb. powdered sugar

Frosting: Beat together in mixer 1 lb. powdered sugar, 1/2 c. cocoa and 1/2 stick butter.

Melt butter and add cocoa. Remove from heat and add sugar and eggs. Mix well. Add flour, nuts, salt and vanilla. Spoon batter into greased 13X9X2 inch baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Sprinkle marshmallows on top. Spread with chocolate frosting. From my sister in law, Paula.

Grocery List
butter
cocoa
sugar
eggs
flour
pecans
salt
vanilla
marshmallows
powdered sugar

Approximate Cost: $8.10

Fruit Crumble

2009-04-22T06:00:00.001-06:00

2 pears
2 apples
1 pint blueberries
2 peaches
1 pint strawberries
2 T. lemon juice
2/3 c. sugar
1 c. flour
1/2 c. butter, melted
1/2 c. brown sugar

Slice fruit and place in bottom of 9X11 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle lemon juice and 2/3 c. sugar over the fruit. Blend together flour, butter and brown sugar. Mix until crumbly and pour over fruit. Bake a 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

Grocery List
pears
apples
blueberries
strawberries
peaches
sugar
flour
butter
brown sugar

Approximate Cost: $8.25

5 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

2009-04-21T13:00:00.000-06:00

4 T. flour
4 T. sugar
2 T. cocoa
1 egg
3 T. milk
3 T. oil
3 T. chocolate chips
1/4 t. vanilla extract
1 large, microwavable coffee mug

Place dry ingredients in mug, mix thoroughly. Add the egg and stir. Pour in milk and oil and blend well. Add chocolate chips and vanilla. Stir once more. Put mug in microwave and cook for 3 minutes on high. The cake will rise over the top, but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool a little and tip out onto a plate if desired.

From Yolanda, who added, "This can serve two, if you want to feel slightly more virtuous. And why is this the most dangerous cake recipe in the world? Because now we are all 5 minutes away from chocolate cake at any time of the day or night!"

Grocery List
flour
sugar
cocoa
egg
milk
oil
chocolate chips
vanilla

Approximate Cost: $1.20

Vera Mae's Lemon Dessert

2009-04-21T06:00:00.000-06:00

1 small lemon jello
1 c. boiling water
1 - 8 oz. cream cheese
1 c. sugar
1/3 c. lemon juice
1 large carnation sweetened condensed milk
1 box vanilla wafers
2 T. butter, melted

Freeze carnation milk for 30 minutes. Crush vanilla wafers. Set aside 1/4 c. of this mixture for topping. Blend rest with butter and press into the bottom of a 9X11 inch pyrex dish.

Dissolve lemon jello in boiling water. Blend together cream cheese, sugar and lemon juice. Add in lemon jello mixture and blend thoroughly. Get carnation milk out and whip until stiff. Fold this into jello mixture. Pour into vanilla wafer shell and top with remaining crushed wafers. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Grocery List
lemon jello
cream cheese
sugar
lemon juice
sweetened condensed milk
vanilla wafers
butter

Approximate Cost: $4.85

Strawberry Yogurt Pops

2009-04-20T13:00:00.000-06:00

1 - 16 oz. pkg. strawberries (stems removed)
1 - 8 oz. carton strawberry yogurt
2/3 c. cranberry juice cocktail
1 T. sugar
10 - 3 oz. paper cups
10 wooden sticks

Combine strawberries, yogurt, cranberry juice and sugar in blender. Spoon evenly 3/4 full into paper cups. Insert wooden stick into the middle of each cup and freeze for one hour. Peel off cup to serve.

Grocery List
strawberries
strawberry yogurt
sugar
cranberry juice
paper cups
wooden sticks

Approximate Cost: $6.85

Pumpkin Blueberry Streusal Muffins

2009-04-20T06:00:00.001-06:00

2 1/2 c. flour plus 2 T. separated
2 c. sugar plus 1/4 c. separated
1 T. pumpkin pie spice
1 t. baking soda
1/2 t. salt
1 1/4 c. canned pumpkin
2 large eggs
1/4 c. vegetable oil
1 c. fresh or frozen blueberries
1 t. cinnamon
2 T. butter

Streusel topping: In a small bowl combine 1/4 c. sugar, 2 T. flour, 1 t. cinnamon. Cut 2 T. butter into the mixture with a pastry blender and blend until crumbly.

Combine 2 1/2 c. flour, 2 c. sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda and salt in large bowl. Combine pumpkin, eggs and vegetable oil in medium bowl, stirring well. Stir wet mixture into dry mixture, just until moistened. Gently fold in blueberries. Spoon batter into lightly greased muffin pan, filling 3/4 full. Sprinkle with streusel topping.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Serve warm.

Grocery List
flour
sugar
pumpkin pie spice
baking soda
salt
canned pumpkin
eggs
oil
blueberries
cinnamon
butter

Approximate Cost: $6.30

Mexican Dessert

2009-04-19T13:00:00.000-06:00

1 1/2 c. water
2 c. sugar
1 1/2 sticks butter
12 flour tortillas
2 cans peaches

Roll 3-4 peaches into each tortilla and place seam-side down on a baking dish. In a medium saucepan over medium high heat, boil 1 1/2 c. water, 2 c. sugar and butter for 5 minutes. Pour over the tortillas. Bake for 25-30 minutes at 350 degrees.

Grocery List
sugar
butter
tortillas
peaches

Approximate Cost: $3.69

Applesauce Date Oatmeal Cookies

2009-04-19T06:00:00.001-06:00

1/3 c. margarine
1 c. brown sugar
4 egg whites
1 c. flour
1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. baking soda
1 1/2 t. allspice
1/2 c. applesauce
2 c. oats
1 c. chopped dates
non-stick vegetable cooking spray

Beat margarine at medium speed. Gradually add sugar and beat well. Add egg whites and blend until fluffy. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and allspice in a small bowl. Blend flour mixture into mixer alternately with applesauce. Gently blend in oats and dates.

Drop by level tablespoonfuls, 2 inches apart on a non-stick cookie sheet, coated with spray. Bake at 375 degrees for 8-10 minutes.

Grocery List
vegetable cooking spray
dates
applesauce
oats
allspice
baking powder
baking soda
flour
eggs
brown sugar
margarine

Approximate Cost: $6.35

Fattigman (Poor Man's Bread)

2009-04-18T19:22:00.000-06:00

5 egg yolks
5 T. sugar
5 T. cream
1 T. cognac (opt.)
1/4 t. cinnamon
1/4 t. cardamom
1 egg white
1 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 c. vegetable oil
1/2 c. powdered sugar

Beat egg yolks and sugar together in a large bowl. Whisk in cream and blend until fluffy. Stir in cognac and spices. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg white until stiff. Fold into cream mixture. Gently add in 1 c. flour. Let stand, covered, in refrigerator overnight.

Next morning, using 1/2 c. flour, roll dough to 1/2 inch in thickness and cut into wedges or with cookie cutter. Fry in 350 degree oil until golden. Place on paper towel to absorb oil. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

Grocery List
eggs
sugar
cream
cognac
cinnamon
cardamom
flour
oil
powdered sugar

Approximate Cost: $4.45

Baklava

2009-04-18T11:32:00.002-06:00

2 c. sugar plus 2 t. sugar separated
1 1/2 c. water
juice of 1/2 lemon
2 T. honey
1 c. ground walnuts
4 t. cinnamon sugar (1 t. cinnamon plus 3 t. sugar)
1 - 16 oz. pkg. phyllo dough
1 c. unsalted butter, melted

Combine 2 c. sugar, 1 1/2 c. water, juice of 1/2 lemon and 2 T. honey in a medium saucepan on medium high heat. Boil for 10 minutes. Pour into glass measuring container and refrigerate.

Mix 1 c. ground walnuts, 2 t. cinnamon sugar and 2 t. sugar in a small bowl.

Reserve 6 sheets phyllo dough. In a 9X13 inch pyrex dish, layer 6 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with butter. Sprinkle with walnut mixture. Layer next 6 sheets of phyllo dough, also brushing with butter. Alternate layers with walnut mixture. Top with remaining 6 layers. Cut into wedges, just 3/4 of the way through. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Pour cold syrup over top. Chill overnight before serving.

Grocery List
sugar
lemon
honey
walnuts
cinnamon
phyllo dough
butter

Approximate Cost: $5.47

Apple Berry Crisp

2009-04-18T06:00:00.001-06:00

2 medium apples, cored, peeled and sliced
1 T. lemon juice
10 oz. frozen raspberries in light syrup, thawed
1 c. instant oats
3 T. butter, melted
2 T. honey
2 T. sugar
1 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. nutmeg
non-stick vegetable spray

Combine apples with lemon juice, toss gently. Place in a 10X6X2" dish, coated with spray. Top with raspberries. Combine oats, sugar, honey, butter, cinnamon and nutmeg. Sprinkle over berries. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.

Grocery List
apples
lemon juice
vegetable cooking spray
sugar
honey
oats
raspberries
nutmeg
butter
cinnamon

Approximate Cost: $5.75

Good Morning Kisses Coffee Cake

2009-04-17T15:45:00.002-06:00

2 cans flaky Pillsbury biscuits
40 chocolate Hershey's kisses
1/2 c. melted butter
1/2 c. sugar
2 t. cinnamon

Unwrap kisses.

Split biscuits in half. Wrap each kiss in a biscuit half and roll into a ball. Dip each ball into melted butter and roll into bowl of cinnamon and sugar blended together. Place balls evenly in budt pan and bake at 350 derees for 20-25 minutes. Turn slightly cooled coffee cake onto a platter and serve. From Women of Faith.com

Grocery List
Biscuits
Hershey's Kisses
butter
cinnamon
sugar

Approximate Cost: $4.78

My Chris' Buffalo Roast

2009-04-17T14:32:00.003-06:00

3 lb. buffalo roast
3 t. meat tenderizer
3 onions, sliced
1 1/2 t.garlic powder
1/4 t. Tony Chachere's creole seasoning
1/2 t. Caribbean style jerk seasoning
1 T. dried red bell pepper flakes
1 t. Rocky Mountain seasoning (from Penzey's)
1 t. onion powder
1/2 t. minced garlic
1 t. paprika
1/4 t. black pepper
1 T. dried celery flakes
1/2 t. Sunny Paris seasoning (also from Penzey's)
2 T. instant beef flavored bouillon
2 T. lime juice
4 oz. apple juice
1 T. teriyaki sauce
1 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 T. bacon grease

In a large crock pot, arrange roast, bacon grease, juices and sauces, then onions, and spices. Cook on high for 6 hours.

Grocery List
buffalo roast
meat tenderizer
onions
garlic powder
Tony Chachere's creole seasoning
Caribbean style jerk seasoning
red bell pepper flakes
Rocky Mountain seasoning
onion powder
minced garlic
paprika
black pepper
celery flakes
Sunny Paris seasoning
instant beef flavored bouillon
lime juice
apple juice
teriyaki sauce
Worcestershire sauce
bacon

Approximate Cost: $8.98

Minted Leg of Lamb

2009-04-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

1 t. salt
1 1/2 t. dried mint
1/2 t. red pepper
1 - 9 lb. (bone in) leg of lamb
2 medium onions, chopped
3 c. dry white wine
1/2 c. olive oil
1/2 c. Dijon mustard
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 T. Worcestershire sauce

Combine salt, mint and red pepper in a small bowl. Rub into lamb. Place onion in the center of a lightly greased roasting pan; place lamb on top of onion. Combine wine, olive oil, mustard, garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over lamb. Bake at 325 degrees for two hours 15 minutes. Baste lamb with pan juices a couple of times during the roasting. From The Ultimate Southern Living Cookbook.

Grocery List
salt
mint
red pepper
leg of lamb
onions
dry white wine
olive oil
Dijon mustard
garlic
Worcestershire sauce

Approximate Cost: $10.25

Carrot Cake Supreme

2009-04-08T13:48:00.002-06:00

2 c. flour
2 t. baking soda
1/2 t. salt
2 t. cinnamon
3 large eggs
2 c. sugar
3/4 c. vegetable oil
3/4 c. buttermilk
2 t. vanilla extract plus 2 t. for the frosting
2 c. grated carrot
1 - 8 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained
1 - 3 1/2 oz. can flaked coconut
1 c. chopped pecans
2 - 8 oz. bar cream cheese
2 c. butter, softened
32 oz. powdered sugar

Grease and flour 3 nine inch round cake pans. In mixer, blend together flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Add eggs, one at a time. Add sugar, oil, buttermilk and vanilla. Blend thoroughly. Fold in carrots, pineapple and coconut. Pour 1/3 of mixture into each pan.

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes.

Icing:
Beat cream cheese and butter until softened, slowly stir in powdered sugar and add vanilla. Frost the top, between layers and on the sides of cake, while still warm (not hot). From The Ultimate Southern Living Cookbook.

Grocery List
flour
baking soda
salt
cinnamon
eggs
sugar
vegetable oil
buttermilk
vanilla extract
carrot
pineapple
coconut
pecans
cream cheese
butter
powdered sugar

Approximate Cost: $8.97

Chicken Monterrey

2009-04-07T11:35:00.003-06:00

1 c. water
1 c. instant rice
5 chicken breasts, thawed
2 cans black beans
2 c. your favorite salsa
1 1/2 c. Monterrey jack cheese, shredded

Layer water, rice, chicken, black beans and salsa. Cook in 350 degree oven for 1 hour. Top with shredded cheese and cook 15 minutes longer.

We like to serve this with Corn Dip and tortilla chips!

Grocery List
instant rice
chicken breasts
black beans
salsa
Monterrey jack cheese

Approximate Cost: $7.29

Sweet Spinach Salad

2009-03-25T10:33:00.004-06:00

3 T. orange juice concentrate
2 T. sugar
2 T. cider vinegar
1 T. finely chopped green onion
1/4 t. salt
1/2 c. canola oil
1 1/2 t. poppy seeds
1 pkg. fresh baby spinach
2 cans (16 oz.) mandarin oranges, drained
2/3 c. honey roasted Almond Accents

In a blender, combine the orange juice, sugar, vinegar, onion and salt. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Stir in poppy seeds. transfer to a small pitcher or bowl. Refrigerate for one hour.

On salad plates, arrange spinach, mandarin oranges and almonds. Drizzle with dressing. Optional: add chow mein noodles and chicken for a delightful lunch! From Taste of Home magazine.

Grocery List
orange juice concentrate
sugar
cider vinegar
green onion
salt
canola oil
poppy seeds
baby spinach
mandarin oranges
Almond Accents

Approximate Cost: $4.88

Double Chocolate Gooey Butter Cakes

2009-03-19T13:50:00.002-06:00

8 T. - 1 stick butter, melted, plus 8 more tablespoons (1 stick) butter, melted, plus additional butter, for greasing pan
1 (18.25-oz.) pkg. chocolate cake mix
1 egg, plus 2 eggs
1 – 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
3 to 4 T. cocoa powder
1 – 16 oz. box powdered sugar
1 t. vanilla extract
1 c. chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Lightly grease a 13 by 9-inch baking pan.

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, 1 egg, and 1 stick melted butter, and stir until well blended.

Pat mixture into prepared pan and set aside.

In a stand mixer, or with a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining 2 eggs, and the cocoa powder. Lower the speed of the mixer, and add the powdered sugar. Continue beating until ingredients are well mixed. Slowly add the remaining 1 stick of melted butter, and the vanilla, continuing to beat the mixture until smooth. Stir in nuts with a rubber spatula.

Spread filling over cake mixture in pan. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the cake; the center should still be a little gooey when finished baking.

Let cake partially cool on a wire rack before cutting into pieces.
Yield: 20-24 servings. From Kimberly in The Siesta Fiesta Cookbook

Grocery List:
Butter
chocolate cake mix
eggs
cream cheese
cocoa powder
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
nuts

Approximate Cost: $5.20

Irish Spaghetti

2009-03-17T10:43:00.002-06:00

1 medium onion, chopped
2 T. canola oil
1 lb. ground chuck
1 t. salt
1 t. chili powder
1/2 t. chipotle Tabasco sauce
1/4 t. pepper
1/8 t. cayenne pepper
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can tomato soup
1 - 8oz. pkg. thin spaghetti noodles
2 T. butter
1 c. mozzarella
1 c. Parmesan cheese

In a frying pan on medium high heat, heat oil and sauté onions. Add meat, cooking until meat is browned--about 10 minutes. Drain meat and return to frying pan. Add seasonings and cook 2 minutes more. Reduce heat to low and add soups. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.

Cook spaghetti, according to package directions. Drain. Place in the bottom of a casserole dish. Slice butter into 10 pieces and put on top. Stir to melt the butter and spread the noodles out again. Then pour sauce on top and cheeses. Bake in 350 degree oven for 10 minutes.

Grocery List
onion
canola oil
ground chuck
salt
chili powder
chipotle Tabasco sauce
pepper
cayenne pepper
cream of mushroom soup
tomato soup
thin spaghetti noodles
butter
mozzarella
Parmesan cheese

Approximate Cost: $6.47

Salmon Bake with Pecan Crunch Coating

2009-03-10T17:57:00.003-06:00

4 salmon fillets (about 1 1/2 inches thick)
1/4 t. salt
1/8 t. pepper
2 T. Dijon mustard
2 T. butter, melted
1 1/2 T. honey
1/4 c. soft breadcrumbs
1/4 c. finely chopped pecans
1 T. fresh parsley
1 lemon, sliced (opt.: for garnish)

Sprinkle salmon with salt and pepper. Place skin-side down in a lightly greased 11X7X1 1/2 " baking dish. In a medium bowl, combine mustard, butter, and honey. Brush over salmon. In a separate bowl, combine bread crumbs, pecans and parsley. Spoon Evenly across top of salmon.

Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes, until the salmon is flaky. Garnish with lemon slices. From Southern Living's Our Best Easy Weeknight Favorites.

Grocery List
salmon fillets
salt
pepper
Dijon mustard
butter
honey
bread
pecans
fresh parsley
lemon

Approximate Cost: $12.59