Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Vegan Lentil Stew



A hearty and healthy vegan lentil stew full of vegetables and spices that is great for saving money and reducing waste.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dry lentils
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Run cold water over the lentils several times to clean them

Put olive oil in a big pot and heat it over medium-low heat

Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery

For about 5 minutes, or until softened, saut

Garlic powder, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper should all be added

Go on and cook for two more minutes

Tomato dice, lentils, and vegetable broth should all be added

Bring up the temperature

Turn down the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are soft

Check the seasoning and make changes if needed

Serve hot, with fresh herbs on top if you want

Have fun!


Monday, November 4, 2024

Japanese-Style Fluffy Pancakes



Japanese-style fluffy pancakes are light, airy, and incredibly delicious. They are a perfect breakfast treat that will make your morning special.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cake flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions:

Put the egg whites and yolks in two different bowls

As you whisk the egg yolks until they are pale and fluffy, add the sugar to the bowl

Add the vanilla extract and whole milk to the egg yolk mixture and mix them well with a whisk

Add the baking powder, salt, and cake flour all at once and mix them in the bowl until the batter is smooth

Beat the egg whites in the bowl until they form stiff peaks

Fold the beaten egg whites into the batter slowly until they are fully mixed in

Put a nonstick skillet or griddle on low heat and add a little vegetable oil to cover the bottom

Using a ladle, pour the pancake batter onto the pan to make thick pancakes that are about 4 inches across

Put the lid on top of the pan and cook for four to five minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown

Using a spatula, carefully flip the pancakes over

Put the lid back on and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, until both sides are golden brown and the pancakes are fluffy

Put the pancakes on a plate and add whipped cream, fresh fruit, or your favorite syrup on top


Saturday, November 2, 2024

Spaghetti Squash with Spinach, Feta, Basil, and White Beans



Spinach, feta, basil, and white beans are just a few of the healthy foods that are in this spaghetti squash dish. It's a tasty, filling keto-friendly meal that can be eaten for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cooked white beans
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Turn on the oven and heat it up to 400F 200C

Split the spaghetti squash in half down the middle, and then scoop out the seeds

Put the squash halves on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper, cut side down

After the oven is hot, bake the squash for 35 to 40 minutes, or until it is soft and a fork can easily go through it

Set the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat while the squash bakes

Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute, until the garlic smells good

Put in some fresh spinach leaves and cook them for about two to three minutes, until they wilt

When the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to pull the flesh apart into strands that look like spaghetti

Add the spaghetti squash strands to the pan with the spinach

Put cooked white beans, feta cheese crumbles, and basil leaves in the pan

Add salt and pepper to taste, then toss everything together until it's well mixed

Add two to three more minutes of cooking time until everything is hot

Enjoy your tasty spaghetti squash with spinach, feta, basil, and white beans while it's still hot!


Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Strawberry Pineapple Popsicles



Enjoy the tropical flavors of pineapple and the sweetness of strawberries in these refreshing popsicles. Perfect for a hot summer day or anytime you need a cool treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup coconut water

Instructions:

In a blender, combine strawberries, pineapple chunks, honey or maple syrup, and coconut water

Blend until smooth

Pour the mixture into popsicle molds

Insert popsicle sticks into each mold

Freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely frozen

Once frozen, remove popsicles from molds and enjoy!


Monday, October 28, 2024

Grilled Chicken Sliders with BBQ Caramelized Onions and Chipotle Slaw



The smoky barbecue flavor, sweet caramelized onions, and spicy chipotle slaw in these Grilled Chicken Sliders go great together. The bite-sized meals are tasty and filling, and they're great for any event.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup coleslaw mix
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Slider buns, for serving

Instructions:

Warm up the grill over medium-high heat

BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper should be mixed with the ground chicken in a bowl

Mix the chicken and make small patties about the size of sliders

Put the patties on the grill and cook them for four to five minutes on each side, or until they are done and have grill marks

If you want, you can brush on more barbecue sauce while the food is cooking

Put olive oil in a pan and heat it over medium-low heat while the chicken patties are cooking on the grill

It will take about 10 to 15 minutes of stirring every now and then until the onions are caramelized and golden brown

Take it off the heat and set it aside

Put the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, chipotle pepper sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a different bowl

To make the chipotle slaw, mix it well

Put a grilled chicken patty on the bottom half of each slider bun to put them together

Add a big spoonful of chipotle slaw and caramelized onions on top

Put the slider bun's top half on top

Enjoy the hot Grilled Chicken Sliders with BBQ Caramelized Onions and Chipotle Slaw!


Friday, October 25, 2024

Grilled Caesar Salad with Shrimp Sushi



This Grilled Caesar Salad with Shrimp Sushi is a creative take on traditional sushi. It has the tastes of a classic Caesar salad with grilled shrimp wrapped in sushi rice and nori seaweed. It's a tasty and refreshing sushi option that's great for any event.

Ingredients:

  • 4 nori seaweed sheets
  • 2 cups cooked sushi rice
  • 1 cup grilled shrimp, chopped
  • 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Soy sauce, for dipping

Instructions:

A nori sheet should be put on a bamboo sushi mat

Cover the nori with a thin layer of sushi rice, leaving about an inch of space at the top

In the middle of the rice, make a line of grilled shrimp, romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese

With the bamboo mat, roll the sushi up tightly starting from the bottom and putting light pressure on it to seal

With a sharp knife, cut the sushi roll into small pieces that are easy to eat

You can dip them in soy sauce


Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Keto True Cod Chowder



A seafood chowder that is creamy and full of flavor, made with real cod chunks, coconut milk, and fragrant herbs. This chowder is low in carbs and doesn't have any dairy, so it's great for a cozy meal on a cold day.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb true cod fillets, cut into chunks
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

In a large pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy

Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot

Add diced onion and celery to the pot and saut until softened, about 5 minutes

Add minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and paprika

Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant

Pour in fish or vegetable broth and coconut milk

Bring to a simmer

Add cauliflower florets and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cauliflower is tender

Gently add cod chunks to the pot and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until fish is cooked through

Season with salt and pepper to taste

Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits and chopped fresh parsley


Sunday, October 20, 2024

Slow Cooker Shredded Mexican Chicken



This Slow Cooker Shredded Mexican Chicken is incredibly flavorful and versatile. With the perfect blend of spices and salsa, it's great for tacos, burritos, salads, and more!

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 can 4 oz diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker

In a bowl, mix salsa, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper

Pour the salsa mixture over the chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the cooking juices

Serve the shredded Mexican chicken in tacos, burritos, salads, or as desired


Friday, October 18, 2024

Chicken Parmesan Meatball Sandwiches



These meatball sandwiches are a tasty take on the classic chicken Parmesan. They are full of flavor and great for a hearty meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 4 slices mozzarella cheese
  • 4 sandwich rolls

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375F 190C

In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined

Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter

Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through

Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat

Once meatballs are cooked, place them in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes

Slice sandwich rolls in half and place a slice of mozzarella cheese on the bottom half of each roll

Top with chicken Parmesan meatballs and some marinara sauce

Cover with the top half of the rolls

Optional: brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese

Wrap sandwiches in foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and rolls are toasted

Serve hot and enjoy!


Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Homemade Chocolate Truffles



Indulge in the decadence of homemade chocolate truffles. These rich and creamy treats are perfect for gifting or satisfying your chocolate cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz 227g high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup 120ml heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or crushed nuts for coating

Instructions:

The heavy cream and butter should be heated in a saucepan over medium heat until they start to simmer

Take off the heat right away

Put the dark chocolate, chopped finely, into a heatproof bowl

Over the chocolate, pour the heated cream and butter mixture

Allow the chocolate to melt by leaving it for a minute

Once the mixture is smooth and glossy, add the vanilla extract to the bowl and stir

Once the mixture is firm enough to handle, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours

Scoop out tiny portions of the chocolate mixture with a spoon or melon baller, then roll them into bite-sized balls

To ensure a uniform coating, roll the truffles in either cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or crushed nuts

To set, place the coated truffles on a tray covered with parchment paper and refrigerate for an additional half hour

It's time to savor your homemade chocolate truffles! Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container


Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Spicy Spinach & Avocado Quesadilla



This Spicy Spinach and Avocado Quesadilla is a delightful gluten-free meal that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the bold flavors of spinach and red pepper flakes. It's quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 gluten-free tortillas
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese use gluten-free if needed
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

Set a pan on medium heat and add the olive oil

In the pan, lay out one tortilla flat

On top of the tortilla, put slices of avocado, spinach leaves, shredded cheese, and red pepper flakes

Like making a sandwich, put the second tortilla on top

After two to three minutes, the bottom tortilla should be golden brown and crispy

Carefully turn the quesadilla over and cook for another two to three minutes, until the cheese melts and the other side is golden brown

Take it off the heat and wait one minute

Cut it into wedges and serve it hot


Saturday, October 5, 2024

Vegan Korma



A rich and creamy vegan version of the classic korma dish, packed with flavorful vegetables and aromatic spices.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup green peas
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup cashews
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat

Add cumin seeds and let them splutter

Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger

Saut until onions are translucent

Add cauliflower, potatoes, carrots, and green peas

Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender

Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala

Stir well to coat the vegetables

Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer

Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are cooked through

In a blender, blend cashews with a little water to form a smooth paste

Stir the cashew paste into the korma to thicken the sauce

Season with salt to taste

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving

Serve hot with rice or naan bread


Thursday, October 3, 2024

Light and Healthy Sage Hasselback Sweet Potatoes



Light and Healthy Sage Hasselback Sweet Potatoes are a tasty and good-for-you side dish. The hasselback method makes the potatoes cook evenly and gives them a crispy outside. Adding fresh sage to these sweet potatoes gives them a fragrant and earthy taste that makes them a great addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Turn on the oven and heat it up to 400F 200C

Clean the sweet potatoes with water and soap, then pat them dry

Be careful not to cut all the way through each sweet potato when you make thin slices down its length

Putting chopsticks on either side of the sweet potato will stop the knife from cutting all the way through

Chop up sage leaves and add them to a small bowl with olive oil

Sprinkle the olive oil mix on top of the sweet potatoes, making sure to cover all of them

Add salt and pepper to taste to the sweet potatoes

Put the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet that has parchment paper on it

For 40 to 45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft and the edges are just a little crispy, bake them in an oven that has already been heated up

Take it out of the oven when it's done and serve it hot

You can add more fresh sage leaves as a garnish if you want to


Monday, September 30, 2024

Sticky Spicy Korean Beef Ribs



These sticky, spicy Korean beef ribs are perfect for any gathering or party. The marinade infuses the ribs with flavor, while grilling adds a delicious smoky char. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, tangy rice vinegar, and spicy Korean chili paste creates a tantalizing balance of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef back ribs
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons Korean chili paste Gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 2 green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, Korean chili paste, and honey to make the marinade

Place beef ribs in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over the ribs, and coat them evenly

Put the mixture in the fridge for at least two hours, or better yet, overnight for the best results

Warm up the grill over medium-high heat

Remove the ribs from the marinade, shaking off excess marinade

Save the marinade to use as a basting sauce

Grill the ribs for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade, until cooked through and slightly charred

Remove ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes

Before serving, top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds


Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Deluxe Sampler Charcuterie



Indulge in a luxurious Deluxe Sampler Charcuterie featuring a selection of New Braunfels Smokehouse's finest smoked meats, assorted cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts. This charcuterie is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a special evening at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 lb New Braunfels Smokehouse summer sausage, sliced
  • 1/2 lb New Braunfels Smokehouse jalapeo cheddar summer sausage, sliced
  • 1/2 lb New Braunfels Smokehouse smoked turkey breast, sliced
  • 1/2 lb New Braunfels Smokehouse smoked pork tenderloin, sliced
  • 8 oz assorted cheeses cheddar, brie, gouda, and blue cheese
  • 1 cup mixed nuts almonds, walnuts, and pecans
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • Assorted crackers and bread

Instructions:

Set out the smoked turkey breast, New Braunfels Smokehouse sausages that have been sliced, and smoked pork tenderloin on a large platter

Arrange the different kinds of cheese around the meats and sausages on the platter

Fill in the empty spots on the platter with the mixed nuts, dried apricots, and dried cranberries

Gather the honey and whole grain mustard in a small bowl

Mix them together to make a sweet and sour dipping sauce

Put out the charcuterie platter with different kinds of crackers and bread to go with the mustard-honey dipping sauce

Have fun with your Deluxe Sampler of Charcuterie!


Monday, September 23, 2024

Apple Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting and Caramel Sauce



These Apple Cupcakes are the perfect combination of moist and flavorful apple cake topped with rich cream cheese frosting and a luscious caramel sauce. They make for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups grated apples about 2 medium apples
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
  • Additional caramel sauce for drizzling optional

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350F 175C

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg

Set aside

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition

Stir in the vanilla extract

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined

Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts if using

Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean

Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely

While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting

Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes, and if desired, drizzle additional caramel sauce for extra sweetness

Serve and enjoy your delicious Apple Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting and Caramel Sauce!


Friday, September 20, 2024

Skinny Cow Iced Coffee



Skinny Cow Iced Coffee Drink is used to make a cool and creamy iced coffee that is great for a quick pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

  • 1 Skinny Cow Iced Coffee Drink
  • Ice cubes
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar optional
  • 1/4 cup of milk or non-dairy alternative

Instructions:

Chill the Skinny Cow Iced Coffee Drink in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes

Fill a glass with ice cubes

If desired, add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the glass and stir until dissolved

Pour the chilled Skinny Cow Iced Coffee Drink over the ice cubes

Add 1/4 cup of milk or a non-dairy alternative of your choice

Stir well to combine

Enjoy your delicious Skinny Cow Iced Coffee!


Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Asian Slaw with Ginger-Peanut Dressing



With a tangy ginger-peanut dressing, this Asian slaw is full of fresh flavors and crunchy textures. You can eat it as a side dish or a light meal any time.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions:

In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, and grated ginger to make the dressing

In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped cilantro, and chopped green onions

Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until well coated

Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top before serving


Vegan Lentil Stew

A hearty and healthy vegan lentil stew full of vegetables and spices that is great for saving...