Kitchen Round Table

Hearty Beef Stew

2010-12-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

2 pounds lean beef, cut into 1 inch cubes
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp marjoram
1 tsp basil
1 bay leaf
1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
4 cups water
1 cup red wine
1 cup celery, chopped
4 cups potato, chopped
2 cups carrots, chopped
8 oz. mushrooms, chopped

In non-stick dutch oven or large pot, sear beef over medium high heat, stirring to brown on all sides. Add onion and garlic plus 1 tsp water and continue cooking until onion is translucent and softened. Add spices, stirring quickly to coat for 1 minute. Add water, wine and 2 cups potatoes. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until potatoes begin to break down and dissolve, thickening broth. Add remaining potatoes and additional vegetables, as well as additional 1-2 cups water if necessary. Return to boil and cook over low heat for another hour, or until vegetables are tender.

Broiled Fish Roll-Ups

2010-12-01T10:35:00.000-08:00

1 1/2 pounds orange roughy
1/4 cup celery, chopped
1/4 cup mushrooms, chopped
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1/4 cup cooked spinach, chopped
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
lemon juice

Preheat broiler. Rinse fish and pat dry. Combine celery, mushrooms and onions with 1 tsp water in non-stick pan and cook over medium heat until soft and translucent. Remove from heat. Add spinach, thyme and black pepper. Mix well, adding water to moisten if necessary. Divide mixture on fillets. Roll up fish and fasten with toothpicks. Place rolled fillets on broiler. Sprinkle each with lemon juice. Place rack under broiler 4-5 inches from heat. Cook 5-7 minutes, turn carefully and cook 5 minutes more, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Shish Kebab

2010-12-01T10:26:00.000-08:00

1 pound skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 large red onion, sliced
2 small zucchini, sliced
2 large green peppers, seeded & cut into 1" pieces
8 large mushrooms
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp. fresh ginger, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp. black pepper, freshly ground

Mix lemon juice, ginger, garlic and black pepper to make marinade. Add chicken pieces and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Remove chicken from marinade and add vegetables to marinade to coat. Thread chicken and vegetables onto 4 skewers, alternating chicken and veggies. Place skewers on grill and cook for approximately 10 minutes, turning carefully to cook on all sides.

Fresh Fruit Medley

2010-12-01T10:04:00.000-08:00

1/2 cantaloupe, cut into 1 inch pieces
1/2 honeydew, cut into 1 inch pieces
1/2 cup blueberries
juice of 1 lime
1 package artificial sweetener
mint leaves

Combine fruit in bowl. Dissolve sweetener in lime juice. Pour over fruit. Stir in mint. Chill before serving.

Eye-Opening Omelets

2010-12-01T09:41:00.000-08:00

4 egg whites
4 tbsp water
black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
fresh veggies & herbs

Saute veggies in several teaspoons of water or chicken stock (sodium free) in non-stick pan until tender. Set aside. Heat non-stick skillet over low to medium heat. Mix egg whites, water and pepper, beating with fork until foamy. Pour eggs in skillet. Cook 2-3 minutes. As eggs cook, pull sides gently towards center with spatula, allowing uncooked eggs to spill into open skillet area. When eggs are neatly cooked, sprinkle vegetables over eggs and fold omelet in half. Cover and continue cooking 1-2 minutes or until eggs are done.

Guiltless French Fries

2010-12-01T09:35:00.000-08:00

3 large russet potatoes
1 egg white
black pepper, freshly ground

Cut potatoes into thin french fry-size strips. In bowl, whip egg white until foamy. Add black pepper and mix. Add potatoes and toss to coat well. Spread potatoes on non-stick cookie sheet in single layer. Cook for 30-35 minutes at 450 or until potatoes are crisp and brown.

Stuffed Peppers

2010-12-01T09:10:00.000-08:00

8 green peppers
1 pound lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
4 cups rice, cooked
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 - 1 cup tomato sauce (sodium-free)
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

Slice off tops of peppers and reserve. Remove core and seeds then steam peppers for 7-9 minutes. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine rice and herbs. Mix thoroughly. In large, non-stick pan, saute onion, mushroom, garlic and ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Stir into rice mixture. Place green peppers in non-stick baking dish. Fill each pepper with meat/rice mixture and cover with pepper tops. Additional meat/rice mixture can be placed around peppers. Cover dish with foil and bake for 1 hour at 350.

Oriental Stir Fry

2010-11-30T17:52:00.000-08:00

1/2 pound skinless chicken breast, cut in 1 inch cubes

1/4 cup water

1 cup broccoli florets

1 cup snow peas

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

1/2 cup water chestnuts

1/2 cup bamboo shoots

2 tbsp lemon juice

4 tbsp white wine

2 tsp thyme

1 tsp nutmeg

black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Heat large, non-stick skillet over high heat. Mix together lemon juice, wine and spices in bowl. Set aside. Add chicken, stirring frequently until chicken is browned on all sides. Add 1/4 cup water and bring to boil. Stir in broccoli, cooking 1 minute. Stir in snow peas, mushrooms and water chestnuts, cooking 2 minutes. Stir in wine mixture and continue cooking 2 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp. Serve over rice.

Healthy Jambalaya

2009-09-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

3 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 c. chicken broth (sodium free)
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/2 c. chopped celery
1 green pepper seeded, chopped
1 c. white wine
1/2 tsp. basil
1/2 tsp. thyme
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped
1 c. uncooked rice
1/2 c. cooked shrimp
2 tomatoes, diced

Combine broth, onion, celery, pepper, wine, and spices in a saucepan. Bring to boil, stirring often. Remove from heat.
Place rice, chicken, shrimp, and tomato in a large casserole dish. Pour herb mixture into casserole, making sure that all the rice is covered.
Cover and bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Turn off oven, but leave casserole dish in for an additional 15 minutes.

Egg Whites Whipping Stages

2009-09-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Frothy
Large, uneven air bubbles

Begins to Hold Shape
Air bubbles are fine and compact (color is now white)

Soft Peak
Tips of peaks fall over as wire mixing whip is removed.

Almost Stiff
Sharp peaks from where the wire mixing whip is removed, but whites are actually soft.

Stiff, But Not Dry
Sharp, stiff peaks form when wire mixing whip is removed. Whites are uniform in color and glisten.

Stiff and Dry
Sharp, stiff peaks form when wire mixing whip is removed. Whites are speckled and dull in appearance.

Tip:
Make sure eggs are room temperature. Also, ensure that the mixing bowl is clean and dry.

Berry Bliss Cake

2009-08-08T10:22:00.000-07:00

1 3.4 oz pkg. instant vanilla pudding
3/4 cup cold milk
1 1/2 thawed whipped topping, divided
2 cups mixed raspberries and sliced strawberries
1/4 cup blackberries
1 10.75 oz pkg. frozen pound cake, cut into 3 layers
1/4 cup orange juice

Beat pudding mix and milk with whisk for 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup whipped toppings. Combine berries; reserve 1/2 cup.

Brush cake layers with orange juice; stack on a cake plate, filling each layer with half each of the remaining berries and pudding mixture. Top with remaining berries and whipped topping.

Refrigerate for 4 hours prior to serving.

Makes: 8 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 4 hours to refrigerate)

Fruit and Almond Salad

2009-07-27T12:08:00.000-07:00

1 5 oz pkg. salad greens
1 11 oz can mandarin oranges
1 cup fresh raspberries
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup raspberry vinaigrette dressing

Combine first 5 ingredients in large salad bowl.

Drizzle with dressing prior to serving.

Makes: 4 Servings (1 1/2 cup each)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

BBQ Chicken Wraps

2009-07-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

1 large green pepper, cut into strips
1 large red pepper, cut into strips
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
4 10 in. whole wheat tortillas, warmed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Cook, stirring often, peppers and onions in large nonstick pan on medium high heat for 3-4 minutes. Add chicken; cook an additional 3-4 minutes is cooked through stirring often. Stir in BBQ sauce; cook an additional 3 minutes or until chicken is done.

Spoon chicken mixture into tortillas. Top with cheese. Roll up and cut in half.

Makes: 4 servings (2 halves each)

Prep Time: 15 (plus 10 minutes to cook)

Simple Dessert Tray

2009-07-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

So, it is your job to bring a desert. Do you take an unhealthy baked item or a healthy fruit alternative? This can be a difficult decision.

But there is a solution....

On a platter, arrange

Strawberries
Oreo Cookies

around a bowl of

Cool Whip.

That's it!

Perfect for church dinners or home parties when you are pressed for time.

Cheese Dogs in a Blanket

2009-07-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
4 beef franks
4 cheese slices

Heat oven to 375 degrees.
Unroll crescent roll dough; separate into 8 triangles. Cut each triangle in half lengthwise.
Cut franks lengthwise in half. Then cut in half crosswise.
Cut each slice of cheese into 4 strips.
Place 1 frank piece and 1 cheese strip at short side of each dough triangle; Roll up.
Place seam-sides down on baking sheet.
Bake 10-13 minutes or until golden brown.

Makes 8 Servings (2 each)

Prep Time: 10 minutes (23-25 minutes including cook time)

Serving Suggestions:

Serve on platter with ketchup, mustard and veggies on the side.

Fluffy Pudding Frosting

2009-07-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

1 pkg. instant chocolate pudding
1 cup cold milk
1/4 cup confectioners sugar
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping

Beat pudding mix, milk and sugar in a large bowl with a wire whisk about 2 minutes. Gently stir in whipped topping.
Spread onto prepared cupcakes or cake.

Store in refrigerator for up to 24 hours if not used immediately.

Makes 4 1/2 cups (approximately 36 cupcakes)

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Creamy Potato Salad

2009-07-13T05:50:00.000-07:00

1 lb. red potatoes, cut into chucks (about 4 potatoes)
1/4 cup Kraft Zesty Italian dressing
1/3 cup Mayo
1 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 hard cooked egg, chopped
4 green onions, sliced

In saucepan, boil water and cook potatoes for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water until cool. Drain again.
Mix dressings and mustard in a large bowl. Add potatoes, eggs and onions; mix lightly.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes prior to serving.

Makes: 4 servings (3/4 cup each)

Prep Time: 30 minutes (not including refrigeration time)

This salad can be made diet friendly by using light dressing and Miracle Whip.

Quick & Easy: Grilled Peaches

2009-07-10T08:08:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

Peaches
Honey
Sour Cream
Brown Sugar
Cinnamon

Slice peaches in half or quarters. Leave peel on. Drizzle or brush with honey and through on a hot grill.

While peaches are on the grill...

Mix sour cream, brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. (I mix inside the sour cream container.)

Top peaches with the sauce or serve on the side.

Guacamole

2009-07-09T11:57:00.000-07:00

2 ripe avocados, chopped
1/2 cup Miracle Whip dressing
2 tbsp. lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Mash avocados with fork in a small bowl. Add remaining ingredients; mix well.

Servings: 10 (2 tbsp. each)

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Suggestions: Top with chopped tomatoes and serve with Wheat Thins or other crackers, tortilla chips or cut up vegetables.

Martha Washingtons

2009-01-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

1 cup margarine, melted and cooled
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups confectioner's sugar
2 cups pecans or walnuts, chopped
1 (14 oz) package sweetened flaked coconut
1 (20 oz) package melting dark chocolate, chopped

Combine all ingredients except chocolate; mix well and chill overnight. Roll into balls the size of marbles; set on wax paper-lined baking sheets or trays. Chill overnight a second time. Melt chocolate in a double boiler. Dip balls into chocolate and return to wax paper to cool.

Yield: 6 Dozen

Cookies 'N Cream Fudge

2009-01-17T12:02:00.000-08:00

1 cup sugar
3/4 cup butter
1 (5 oz) can evaporated milk
2 (12 oz) packages white chocolate morsels
1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow cream
3 cups coarsely crushed cream-filled sandwich cookies, divided
Pinch of salt

Line a 9 in. square baking pan with aluminum foil; set aside. Combine first 3 ingredients in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil; cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; add white chocolate morsels, marshmallow cream, 2 cups crushed cookies and salt. Stir until morsels melt. Pour fudge into prepared pan. Gently press remaining 1 cup cookies into fudge. Cover and chill until firm. Lift uncut fudge in aluminum foil from pan; remove foil and cut fudge into squares.

Yields: 4 lbs

Buckeye Brownies

2009-01-17T11:45:00.000-08:00

1 (19.5 oz) package brownie mix
2 cups confectioner's sugar
1/2 cup + 6 tbsp. butter softened, divided
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 (6 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips

Prepare and bake brownie mix in a greased 9x13 baking pan according to package instructions. Allow to cool. Mix confectioner's sugar, 1/2 cup butter and peanut butter; spread over brownies. Chill for 1 hour. Melt chocolate chips and remaining 6 tbsp. of butter in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Spread over brownies. Allow to cool and cut into squares.

Makes 2-3 Dozen

Apple Cranberry Spice Cake

2009-01-17T11:34:00.000-08:00

1 (18.25 oz) package spice cake mix
3 eggs 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup butter (softened)
1/2 cup water
1 cup dices, peeled apples
1 cup dried cranberries

Glaze:
1 tbsp. butter
1/4 cup water
2 cups confectioner's sugar (sifted)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine cake mix, eggs, applesauce, butter and water. Beat on low speed for one minute to blend, then on medium speed for two minutes. Stir in diced apples and cranberries. Spread batter evenly in 10-inch greased and floured bundt pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a tester inserted in center comes out clean. Cool for 25 minutes in pan on wire rack and then remove cake and cool completely.

Glaze: In a saucepan, combine butter and water over very low heat until butter melts. Remove from heat and gradually add confectioner's sugar, stirring until smooth. Pour warm glaze over top of cake, letting it drip down the sides.

Serves: 12

Crispy Potato Wedges

2008-11-11T10:26:00.000-08:00

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Baking Time: 40 minutes

4 Medium Russet Potatoes, cut into large wedges

1 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil

1/2 Teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper

1/8 Teaspoon Salt

2 Cloves Garlic, minced (optional)

Reduced-Sodium Ketchup (optional)

Place potatoes in a large bowl; add cold water to cover. Let stand for 15 minutes.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Spray a nonstick baking sheet with vegetable cooking spray. Set aside.

Drain potatoes in a colander. Spread on a double layer of paper towels. Cover with a second layer of paper towels. Press down on the towels to dry potatoes.

Transfer potatoes to a clean large bowl. Sprinkle with oil, pepper, and salt; toss gently to combine. Arrange seasoned potatoes in a single layer on prepared baking sheet.

Bake potatoes for 20 minutes. Using spatula, turn potatoes; sprinkle with garlic. Bake until golden, about 20 minutes, turning baking sheet after 10 minutes for even browning. Serve immediately with ketchup on the side.

*For a sweeter flavor, use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes. Proceed as directed and add 1/2 teaspoon of paprika when tossing potatoes with spices. Bake as directed.

Calories Per Serving: 132, Carbohydrates 23g, Protein 3g, Sodium 77mg, Cholesterol 0MG

Garlic - A Wonder Herb

2008-11-10T13:57:00.000-08:00

Garlic - A Wonder Herb
By David Urmann

Garlic has been used for both food and medicine. Its medicinal effects are proven to be effective and used for more than 5000 years. It is considered a healing herb.

Thiosulfinate allicin (sulfur containing compound) is the main ingredient of garlic. It is naturally antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial that prevents common diseases and infections. The traditionalists regard garlic as a wonder herb. Modern technology attests to the wonders of garlic in medicine.

Garlic comes in 60 varieties throughout the world. Snow Mountain garlic from Kashmir has been established as the world's best garlic, especially in terms of potency and purity.

Benefits of Garlic

• Regular intake of garlic (mixed in food) can prevent a person from acquiring viral, fungal and bacterial infections.
• It contains more than 70 phythochemicals such as allicin that lowers or cures with high blood pressure. A seed of garlic after meal is recommended for those suffering from high blood.
• Garlic contains hundreds of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, B, C, calcium, selenium, potassium, magnesium and zinc.
• It can prevent heart disease.
• It lowers the rate of ovarian, colorectal and other cancers.
• It lowers cholesterol levels.
• It overcomes fatigue
• It increases endurance and energy.
• Frequent eating of garlic helps regulate levels of homocysteine, a chemical that leads to plaque. Plaque build-up is lowered by 12%.

Respiratory conditions:

• It reduces the risk of getting colds by 50% and it speeds up recovery.
• It boosts immune system.
• It prevents bronchitis, asthma, tuberculosis and pneumonia.

Digestive Disorders:

• It helps cure stomach ulcer, amoebic dysentery, diarrhea, worms and parasites.

Cardiovascular Disease:

• It helps in Atherosclerosis, claudication, post-heart attack therapy and post-stroke therapy.

Skin Problems:

• A person can be invincible against tick bites because of 20 weeks of garlic intake. Recommended dosage is 1.2 grams a day.
• Helps cure eczema, acne, boils, stings and insect bites.

Dosage Recommendations:

Normal Health maintenance - 2 to 3 bulbs a day just before breakfast.
Cancer - 3 bulbs in the morning before breakfast and another 3 before going to bed. 10 garlic bulbs a day in split doses can be given to patients in the advanced stages of cancer.
Influenza - 2 bulbs before breakfast (for prevention)
Hypertension - 2 bulbs before breakfast and 2 bulbs before sleeping at night.
Joint Pains, Arthritis and Rheumatism - 2 bulbs before breakfast and one before sleeping at night.
Existing Flu - 4 bulbs before breakfast and 4 before sleeping at night.
Other Ailments - 2 bulbs before breakfast.
Controlling Cholesterol - 2 bulbs before breakfast.
Increased Energy - 2 bulbs in the morning and 2 before sleeping at night.
For existing suffers - 4 bulbs in the morning and 2 before sleeping at night.
Most Chinese include garlic in their everyday dishes because it improves body circulation. Garlic can be eaten raw as a form of therapy. Raw garlic is more effective than cooked garlic.

Garlic can be incorporated in everyday meals without actual cooking. An example of this is spreading crushed garlic on toasted bread with butter. The most advisable garlic type is those with strongest odors.

The intoxicating fragrance and flavor of garlic helps create a wonderful aroma of dishes. Hence, garlic can affect blood clotting when not properly medicated by physicians. Garlic intake has limitations. It may cause cancerous effects also. The key is in moderation.

According to the American Academy of Family Physician, garlic has no effect on drug metabolism. Patients taking anticoagulants should be very cautious in eating garlic. Thus, garlic intake is prohibited 7 up to 10 days before surgery because it can prolong bleeding time.

Allium ursinum (wild garlic) is one of the most versatile plants for improving people's health. Many cultures all over the world use garlic as a medicinal herb.

Garlic is indeed a magical herb. It gives food an additional spice, and has curing properties that has improved the health of many people.

For more information on Garlic for healing and Vegetarian Curry Recipes please visit our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Urmann
http://EzineArticles.com/?Garlic---A-Wonder-Herb&id=1673008

2008-11-10T12:54:00.001-08:00

Butter Frosting - Icing

2008-09-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

6 Tbsp. Butter or Margarine
4 1/2 - 4 3/4 Cups Confectioner's Sugar
1/4 Cup Milk
1 1/2 Tsp. Vanilla

In large mixing bowl, beat butter or margarine until light and fluffy. Gradually add about half the confectioner's sugar, beating well. Beat in milk and vanilla. Gradually beat in the remaining confectioner's sugar, then additional milk, if necessary to make frosting of spreadable consistency.

*Frosts tops and sides of two 8 in. or 9 in. layers.

**For light chocolate frosting, add 2 tbsp. powdered cocoa.

Prairie Land Pot Roast

2008-09-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

From: Kraft Food & Family
Prep Time: 20 min

1 Boneless Beef Shoulder Pot Roast (2 lb.)
1/2 Tsp. Salt
1/4 Tsp. Pepper
1 Bottle (8 oz.) Kraft Catalina Dressing, divided
2 Large Onions, sliced
2 Lb. Yukon Gold or All-Purpose Potatoes, peeled, cut into 2 in. pieces
1 Lb. Carrots, peeled, cut into 1 in. pieces
Water
2 Tbsp. Fresh Parsley, chopped

Season both sides of roast with salt and pepper. Brown meat in large heavy pot or Dutch oven on high heat in 1/4 cup of the dressing, turning to brown all sides. Add onions; stir to brown.
Add remaining dressing, potatoes, carrots and enough water to come 3/4 of the way up the meat (about 1 1/3 to 2 cups). Bring to boil; cover. Reduce heat to low. Simmer 2 hours or until meat and vegetables are tender.
Remove meat from pan; slice meat thinly against the grain. Serve meat and vegetables topped with pan gravy. Sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving.

Serves: 8

*This pot roast can cook into a slow cooker for 5 to 6 hours.

**Cal. 400, Fat 13g (sat. 3.5g.), Chol. 95mg., Sodium 600 mg., Carb. 37g., Fiber 4g., Sugars 15g., Protein 33g., Vit. A 120% dv., Vit. C 30% dv., Calcium 4% dv., Iron 25% dv.

Macadamia Chip Cookies

2008-09-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

1 cup butter or margarine, soften
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 pkg. (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 pkg. (10-12 oz.) vanilla or white chips
2 jars (3 1/4 oz. ea.) macadamia nuts, chopped
1/2 cup finely crushed peanut brittle

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, dry pudding mix, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in chips, nuts and peanut brittle.
Drop by rounded spoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Makes 5 1/2 Dozen

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

2008-09-17T05:16:00.000-07:00

3 Cups All-Purpose Flour
2 Tsp. Ground Cinnamon
1 Tsp. Salt
1 Tsp. Baking Soda
4 Eggs
2 Cups Sugar
2 Cups Cooked or Canned Pumpkin
1 1/4 Cups Vegetable Oil
1 1/2 Cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, salt and baking soda. In another bowl, heat the eggs, sugar, pumpkin and oil. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in chocolate chips. Pour into two greased 8 in. x 4 in. x 2 in. loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.

Yield: 2 Loaves

Tangy Broccoli Salad

2008-09-17T04:50:00.000-07:00

From: Kraft Food & Family
Prep Time: 20 Min.

3/4 Cup Miracle Whip Light Dressing
2 Tbsp. Sugar
2 Tbsp. Vinegar
1 Bunch Broccoli, Cut Into Florets (6 Cups)
6 Slices Oscar Mayer Bacon, Crisply Cooked, Drained and Crumbled
1 Small Red Onion, Chopped

Mix dressing, sugar and vinegar in large bowl.
Add remaining ingredients; mix lightly. Cover.
Refrigerate at least one hour before serving.

Serves: 12

*Cal. 100, Fat 8g. (Sat. 1.5g.), Chol. 10mg., Sodium 190 mg., Carb 7g., fiber 1g., Sugars 4g., Protein 2g., Vit. A 20% dv., Vit. C 60% dv., Calcium 2% dv., Iron 2% dv.

Strawberry Jam Bars

2008-09-15T09:25:00.000-07:00

1/2 Cup Butter or Margarine, soft
1/2 Cup Packed Brown Sugar
1 Egg
1 Pkg. (10-1./4 oz) White Cake Mix
1 Cup Finely Crushed Cornflakes
1 Cup Strawberry Jam or Preserves
In a mixing bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg, mix well. Gradually add dry cake mix and cornflakes. Set aside 1 1/2 cups for topping. Press remaining dough into a greased 13 in. x 9 in. x 2 in. baking pan.
Carefully spread jam over crust. Sprinkle with reserved dough, gently press down. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

Yield: 2 Dozen

Almond Chicken Dijon

2008-09-15T09:13:00.000-07:00

From: Kraft Food & Family
Prep Time: 10 min.

4 Small Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Halves (1 lb.)
2 Tbsp. Kraft Mayo Light Mayo
2 Tbsp. Grey Poupon Dijon Mustard
1/4 Cup Planters Slivered Almonds, Coarsely Chopped

Preheat oven to 375. Place chicken in lightly greased 13x9 inch baking dish; set aside.
Mix mayo and mustard until well blended. spread top side of each chicken breast half with 1 tbsp. of the mayo mixture; sprinkle evenly with almonds.
Bake 20-25 min. or until chicken is cooked through (165 degrees).

Serves: 4

*Serve with a tossed green salad.

**Cal. 200, Fat 9g. (Sat. 1..5g.), Chol. 70mg., Sodium 300mg., Carb 3g., Fiber <1g.,>

Big Orange Fudge

2008-09-12T05:43:00.000-07:00

Orange Marbled Fudge

1 1/2 tsp. + 3/4 cup butter (no substitutes), divided
3 cups sugar
3/4 cup whipping cream
1 pkg. (10-12 oz.) vanilla or white chips
1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow cream
3 tsp. orange extract
12 drops yellow food coloring
5 drops red food coloring

Grease a 13 in. x 9 in. x 2 in. pan with 1 1/2 tsp. butter. In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, cream and remaining butter. Cook and stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 4 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in chips and marshmallow cream until smooth.
Remove 1 cup and set aside. Add orange extract and food colorings to remaining mixture; stir until well blended. Pour into prepared pan. Drop the reserved marshmallow mixture by tablespoonfuls over top; cut through mixture with a knife to swirl. Cover and refrigerate until set. Cut into squares.

Beef Noodle Bowl

2008-09-12T05:29:00.000-07:00

From: Kraft Food & Family
Prep Time: 10 min.

8 Oz. Linguine, uncooked
2 Cups Broccoli florets
3 Carrots, peeled, sliced, (2 cups)
2 Tsp. Oil
1 Lb. Beef Sirloin Steak, cut into strips
1/4 Cup Kraft Asian Tossed Sesame Dressing
1 Tbsp. Teriyaki Sauce

Cook pasta as directed on package, adding vegetables to the boiling water for the last 2 min. of the pasta cooking time.
Meanwhile, heat oil in large nonstick skillet. Add meat, cook 4 min. or until browned on all sides, stirring occasionally. Stir in dressing and teriyaki sauce; cook 2 min. or until sauce is thickened, stirring occasionally.
Drain pasta mixture; place in large serving bowl. Add meat mixture: toss to coat.

Serves: 4

*Cal. 440, Fat 11g. (sat. 3g.), Chol. 60mg., Sodium 440mg., Carb. 53g., Fiber 5g., Sugars 9g., Protein 30g., Vit. A 170% dv, Vit. C 45% dv., Calcium 6% dv., Iron 30% dv.

**It's easy to swap in strips of boneless, skinless chicken breast or pork tenderloin for the beef.

Easy Shepherd's Pie

2008-09-11T06:39:00.000-07:00

From: Kraft Food & Family Dinner

Prep Time: 10 min.

1 Lb. Ground Beef
2 Cups Hot Mashed Potatoes
4 Oz. (1/2 of 8 oz. pkg.) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Cubed
1 Cup Kraft Shredded Chedder Cheese, Divided
2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
4 Cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables, thawed
1 Cup Beef Gravy

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Brown meat in large skillet. Drain.
Mix potatoes, cream cheese and the garlic until well blended.
Stir vegetables and gravy into the meat.
Spoon into 9-inch square baking dish.
Cover with potato mixture. Don't worry about it being perfectly even; the more rustic it looks the better.
Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Bake for 20 min. or until heated through.

Serves: 6

*Shortcut: Used instant mashed potatoes. Prepare potatoes as directed on package, omitting the milk. This way when you add the cream cheese, the potatoes stay fluffy.

Easy 2 Step Chicken

2008-09-11T06:25:00.000-07:00

4 Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless)
1 Can Cream of Mushroom Soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 Cup Water
Brown chicken in pan. Add cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup and water; cover and simmer until done. Serve with your favorite side dish.

*Great with rice and broccoli.

Serves: 4

Great Salads 101

2008-09-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

Find greens that are free of discoloration and are crisp. Iceberg lettuce and cabbage should be firm and solid.
Wash greens with cool water thoroughly, pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess water.
Store greens in a covered container or plastic bag. Place a paper towel at the bottom of bowl to adsorb moisture.
For iceberg lettuce, remove the core with a paring knife. Or grasp the head and firmly hit the core against the counter and lift out the core. Rinse with the head under running water with the core side down.
Refrigerate greens at least 1 hour prior to serving. This ensures the greens crispness. Allow greens to set no longer than 15 minutes prior to serving.
Don’t use a knife, use your hands! Lettuce should be torn and not cut. Cutting with a knife can turn the edges brown. Tear into bite sizes pieces just before serving.
Toss greens with desired dressing and serve immediately or serve dressing on the side. Be careful no to add too much dressing because it will make the salad soggy.

Pasta, rice and vegetable salads should be chilled for a couple hours to allow all the flavors to blend together.

Bibb Lettuce

Curly Endive

Escarole

Green Leaf

Iceberg

Red Leaf

Romaine

Spinach

Watercress

Fantasy Fudge

2008-09-10T06:20:00.000-07:00

3/4 Cups Parkay Margarine
3 Cups Sugar 1 5-Fl. Oz. Can Evaporated Milk
1 12 Oz. Pkg. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
1 7 Oz. Jar Kraft Marshmallow Cream
1 Cup Chopped Nuts (Optional)
1 Tsp. Vanilla

Combine sugar, margarine and milk in heavy 2 1/2 to 3 quart sauce-pan; bring to full boil; stir constantly. Continue boiling for 5 min. over medium heat or until candy thermometer reaches 234 degrees, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Remove from heat; stir in chocolate pieces until melted. Add remaining ingredients; mix until well blended. Cool.

Chocolate-Banana Parfaits (Low-Fat)

2008-09-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

From: Kraft Food & Family

Prep. Time: 10 min.
Serves: 4

2 Cups cold fat-free milk
1 PKG. (4-serving size) Jell-O chocolate flavor, fat-free, sugar free instant reduced calorie pudding & pie filling
2 Bananas, sliced
3/4 Cup thawed Cool Whip lite whipped topping, divided

Pour milk into medium bowl. Add dry pudding mix. Beat with wire whisk 2 min. or until well blended.

Spoon half of the pudding evenly into 4 dessert glasses. Cover with layers of banana slices and 1/2 cup of the whipped topping: top with remaining pudding and remaining whipped topping.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

*Cal. 150, Fat 2g. (sat 2g.), Chol. <5mg., Sodium 390mg., Carb 33g., Fiber 3 g., Sugars 18g., Protein 5g., Vit. A 6% dv, Vit. C 10% dv., Calcium 15% dv., Iron 6% dv.

Tips: Sauce or Red Stains on Plastic Containers?

2008-09-09T06:31:00.000-07:00

#1 Ensure that the food is cool prior to placing it in the bowl.

#2 Lightly coat the bowl with cooking oil or spray before you fill the bowl.

Velvety Vegetable Cheese Soup

2008-09-09T06:26:00.000-07:00

From: Kraft Food & Family

1 Package (16 oz.) frozen broccoli, cauliflower & carrot mix
2 Cans (14 oz. ea.) fat-free, reduced sodium chicken broth
3/4 LB. (12 oz.) Velveeta pasteurized cheese product, cut up

Place vegetables and broth in large saucepan; cover. Bring to boil on medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low; simmer 10 min or until vegetables are tender. -- Mash vegetables with potato masher to desired consistency. -- Stir in Velveeta; cook 5 min. or until cheese is melted and soup is heated through, stirring frequently.

Serves 6

Chocolate Lava Sundaes

2008-08-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

Kraft Food & Family
Ready in 5 minutes.

1 Jell-O Chocolate Pudding Snack
2 Scoops-1/2 cup ea.
Ice Cream Planters Nuts (Optional)

Microwave pudding in microwavable bowl for 30 seconds. Pour over 2 bowls of ice cream.
*Top with your favortie Planters nuts for a crunch.

Serves 2

Ham Cold-Plate Special

2008-08-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Kraft Food & Family

1 8 Sugar Snap Peas
8 Baby Carrots
1/2 Cup Grapes
6 Sclices Ham
2 TBSP. Ranch Dressing
16 Wheat Thin Crackers

Build a meal from snacks and food in the fridge. Arrange ingredients in a plate with a small serving dish of the ranch dressing.

Two-Tone Pita Melt

2008-08-28T09:26:00.000-07:00

Kraft Food & Family Dinner
Ready in 5 minutes

1 Whole Wheat Pita
1 Tbsp. BBQ Sauce
6 Slices Ham
1/4 Shredded Cheese

Spread BBQ Sauce on pita. Top with ham and cheese. Toast in toaster oven.

Note: This recipe is for 1 serving, but you can easily make this for a family of 4.

Balsamic Chicken Salad

2008-08-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

Kraft Food & Family Dinner
Ready in 5 minutes!

2 2 1/2 Cups Salad Greens
1 Package Chicken Breast Strips
1/4 Cup Cashews
2 TBSP Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

Toss all ingredients together in a large bowl.

Note: This serves 2, but can easily be doubled.

Hamburger & Potato Bake

2008-08-20T05:41:00.000-07:00

1 Lb Ground Beef

2 Lbs Potatoes Peeled & Chopped

2 Cans Cream of Chicken Soup

1 Onion Chopped

Salt

Pepper

In an skillet, fry potatoes and onions until tender. Salt and pepper to taste. While potatoes and onions are cooking, brown the ground beef in another skillet. Salt to taste. Pour beef into casserole dish or dutch oven and top with the potatoes and onions. Pour cream of chicken soup over the top and bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Serves 6-8

*More potatoes can be added to stretch servings.

Ground Beef Casserole

2008-08-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

1 LB Ground Beef

1 Medium Onion

Salt and Pepper to Taste

½ Tsp. Garlic Powder

1 Tsp. Worcestershire Sauce

½ Tsp. Oregano

1 Can Stewed or Diced Tomatoes

Grated Parmesan Cheese

1 Small Box Macaroni

Sauté beef and onion until beef is done and onions are tender. Add all seasonings and tomatoes. Simmer for about 10 minutes. While simmering, boil the water for the macaroni and cook according to the package directions. Drain macaroni and stir into beef mixture. Pour into a casserole dish and sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake for 10-20 minutes or until cheese melts or browns. This can be served with a side salad and/or garlic bread.

Saving Money on Produce

2008-08-16T19:18:00.001-07:00

The best way to save money on fruits and vegetables is to grow your own. You don’t have to have a lot of land to grow your own. People have been turning their backyards into gardens to save money.

If you can’t grow your own garden, you may be able to pick from someone else’s garden. Some farmers will let you come to their gardens to pick your own produce for a small fee.

No matter if you grow your own or pick from others, you will need to learn how to properly can and freeze your produce for proper storage.

Saving Money on Dairy

2008-08-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

Buying powdered milk can save you a lot of money. Especially since milk prices have significantly increased. If your family does not like the taste of prepared milk, use it for cooking and save the other for drinking.

You can also use powdered milk for an instant chocolate drink by mixing half cocoa and half sugar. Dissolve with a touch of hot water and then three to five tablespoons of powdered milk. Powdered milk can be froze.

Try to purchase eggs from local farmers.

Save money on butter by purchasing in pound blocks and section them in quarters yourself. If you buy in bulk, you can freeze excess.

Saving Money on Cereal

2008-08-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

My tips for saving money on cereal:

1. Variety packs will cost more.

Come on people this is not a buffet! Decide on 1 brand or type of cereal for the week and buy the generic brands. If choosing is a debate, let them take turns picking it out for the week.

2. Stay away from sugary cereal.

Not only is it bad for your health it is bad for your budget. Sugary cereals are typically more than their unsweetened counterparts.

3. Cooked cereal is the way to go!

My kids love oatmeal and cream of wheat. This is cost effective and healthier. Adding a tiny amount of sugar or maple syrup to some oatmeal is not near as unhealthy as a bowl of sugar pops. Cooked cereal is more filling and will go farther to feed your family.

Saving Money on Bread

2008-08-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried freezing bread? I know of many budget conscious moms that save money by purchasing 1 day old bread at bakery or thrift store selections in bulk and then freeze it.

Personally, I have not tried this one. I buy my bread at Kroger for $0.99. I am sure I could save money here, but I am not sure that my family would go for it.

That being said, I do freeze my own bread crumbs. The unused bread that nobody wants to finish gets processed in the food processor and stored in freezer bags for future use.

Cheap or Cheap

2008-08-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

So, in my quest to find cheap and filling meals, I notice that the definition of cheap varies from person to person. When I say cheap people, I mean cheap.

Using domestic sherry instead of imported is not what I am referring to.

What is your definition of cheap? Please comment….

Cooking on a Budget

2008-08-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

I will be posting recipes starting on Monday of meals that I have fixed in an effort to save money, but still eat well. I have been going through cookbooks all weekend to get ideas and make a grocery list.

Here is a bit of history:

We are a family of 4. Myself, my husband and 2 girls ages 6 and 8. Oh, and 1 dog! Most of the time my mom will eat supper with us and sometimes my sister, so I try to find meals that will serve six.