tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72089861680600891902024-03-13T19:23:40.960-04:00Frugality and Crunchiness with ChristyMy crazy life where frugality and earthy crunchiness collide.Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.comBlogger287125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-77690632218502551902013-11-24T19:30:00.000-05:002013-11-24T19:30:02.780-05:00Winter Fruit Salad<div style="text-align: center;">
What a boring name for a delicious salad. </div>
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Today I had to take a salad to my son's football banquet, you know how that goes </div>
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"Freshman bring desserts, Sophmores salads etc" </div>
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and I decided to make this yummy salad because: </div>
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a. it is yummy </div>
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b. I had all the ingredients </div>
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c. it is super easy peasy lemon squeezy and </div>
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d. it is gluten free. </div>
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I wish I had a picture of it - but use your imaginations k?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkyGc_JkfGZvb82SrCbNIVNOnLlNnsPH69fLHYKKQO9W5nrxIka0zyNzXlfJSe1yS13YF6zzW59kgygqn5F11fQC-PSaImz7h-DtuIpzLgU9DxosLOta_hAErkE4WS-uzj1lEUcynQnY/s1600/apples-and-banana-f2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkyGc_JkfGZvb82SrCbNIVNOnLlNnsPH69fLHYKKQO9W5nrxIka0zyNzXlfJSe1yS13YF6zzW59kgygqn5F11fQC-PSaImz7h-DtuIpzLgU9DxosLOta_hAErkE4WS-uzj1lEUcynQnY/s320/apples-and-banana-f2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Fabulously yummy super easy Winter Fruit Salad</h2>
2 cups cubed, unpeeled red apples<br />
2 cups cubed, unpeeled pears<br />
3/4 cup dried cranberries<br />
2 bananas, sliced<br />
1 TBS lemon juice<br />
3/4 cup of toasted walnuts<br />
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<strong><em><u>Dressing</u></em></strong><br />
1/3 cup mayonnaise<br />
2 TBS honey<br />
1/2 tsp grated lemon peel (use an organic lemon if you can)<br />
1/8 tsp allspice<br />
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In a large bowl combine the apples, pears, cranberries and lemon juice.<br />
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In a small bowl combine the dressing ingredients. Blend well and then add to the big bowl. Gently fold in the bananas and the walnuts. <br />
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<span>Location</span> </div>
</a>This was so good I will be making it for Thanksgiving instead of waldorf salad. Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-51083703288404490242013-06-09T16:06:00.004-04:002013-06-09T16:09:11.171-04:00 Potato Leek Clam SoupI cleaned out the pantry and found a couple of things that needed using up - evaporated milk, potato flakes and a couple cans of chopped clams - and decided to make a clam chowder of sorts. I have made <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2011/02/yukon-gold-potato-and-leek-soup.html">potato leek soup</a> which was totally from scratch - this is more pantry style but still yummy! And the addition of clams - brilliant (or at least inspired).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmXWWhoPd553rECNPgRkcqkyKNwAFAakUkIbC35UqDEl7QPeToiiICPbgVJZ-x-GxXe2F_3KkI6byfixvQLZ7GmxXYYpLwmmg7irsr2NcM2yFXhx5FKrLIIi87MUf9hTNpURdTHOqrZA/s1600/leek+and+potato+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmXWWhoPd553rECNPgRkcqkyKNwAFAakUkIbC35UqDEl7QPeToiiICPbgVJZ-x-GxXe2F_3KkI6byfixvQLZ7GmxXYYpLwmmg7irsr2NcM2yFXhx5FKrLIIi87MUf9hTNpURdTHOqrZA/s1600/leek+and+potato+soup.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes this is a recycled picture from <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2011/02/yukon-gold-potato-and-leek-soup.html">this post</a> - but really how exciting is a picture of soup??</td></tr>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<em>Potato Leek Clam Soup</em></h2>
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1/2 onion chopped</div>
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1 leek white part - chopped</div>
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1 carrot diced</div>
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coconut oil - 2TBS</div>
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1TBS butter</div>
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1 quart homemade chicken stock</div>
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1 cup beans - I used chickpeas but I think white beans would have been better.</div>
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1 can evaporated milk </div>
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2 cans of water </div>
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2 cups potato flakes</div>
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1 TBS butter</div>
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1 tsp garlic powder, mustard powder, celery seed</div>
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salt and pepper</div>
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2 cans clams with juice</div>
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Saute' the veggies in the coconut oil and butter for 5 minutes or so. Add the chicken stock and cook at a slow boil until the carrots are soft. Add the chickpeas. Blend with stick blender until smooth. Add the milk and water, the potato flakes and stir. Add more water or flakes if needed. Add the spices and then add the butter and clams and taste - salt and pepper as needed. Delicious!Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-70475800062217316902013-05-29T18:41:00.003-04:002013-05-29T20:02:46.519-04:00Italian Cube Steak<div style="text-align: center;">
Saturday my upright freezer broke.</div>
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Kaput.</div>
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Unfixable. </div>
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Thankfully my husband is my hero - within 30 minutes of the discovery he was at the local appliance store buying me a replacement.</div>
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(One of the many reasons why I love him!!!)</div>
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But there were some pieces of meat that were too thawed to put into the new one. Liver and cube steak topped the list. I have cooked it in the past with more or less success - <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2011/04/cube-steak-beef-stroganoff-i-have-tried.html">here is a link</a> to a<a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2011/04/cube-steak-beef-stroganoff-i-have-tried.html"> cube steak stroganoff</a> that my family really likes.<br />
This time I wanted something a bit different and so I made it with a red gravy - I loved this. I added both rice and cooked cabbage to my bowl - kind of like a deconstructed stuffed cabbage. <br />
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Italian Cube Steak<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cuJBVTEFUhfEMR2Dswep1euRaBfYPC42M9JkxGqREF6fzjktDJmvbOWSsWY5VwmX3QFwBE4LAdGbJPTGRg9cmFPF7GgvKtNmMYzGQOsa69bG8TEdOGqtXnlnLu_h0PWvA5qcllUJmoI/s1600/Smothered-Cube-Steak+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cuJBVTEFUhfEMR2Dswep1euRaBfYPC42M9JkxGqREF6fzjktDJmvbOWSsWY5VwmX3QFwBE4LAdGbJPTGRg9cmFPF7GgvKtNmMYzGQOsa69bG8TEdOGqtXnlnLu_h0PWvA5qcllUJmoI/s320/Smothered-Cube-Steak+(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
6 cube steaks (or so) (if they are big cut in half)<br />
g/f all purpose flour - 2 cups<br />
1tbs garlic powder<br />
1TBS onion powder<br />
1 TBS Italian seasoning<br />
salt and pepper<br />
tallow or lard to cover bottom of pan<br />
1 onion diced<br />
1 red and 1 green pepper diced<br />
2 ribs celery sliced <br />
3 pints tomato sauce<br />
dry red wine - splash<br />
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Combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning and salt and pepper in a bowl.<br />
Melt the fat in a dutch oven.<br />
Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture and add to the dutch oven - brown each side. Remove to a plate. (Don't crowd the pan, brown in batches if necessary) When done add back to the pot along with onions, celery and peppers and tomato sauce. Splash a little dry red wine in the pot. Put in a 400 degree oven and cook for an hour and 10 minutes. <br />
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Serve over rice and/or chopped up cooked cabbage.Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-37299282015487874562013-01-02T20:55:00.002-05:002013-01-08T17:16:11.281-05:00Italian Noodly SoupHello,<br />
I would be surprised if anyone still reads my little blog - it is now back to its original intent - a place for me to post food that I make that my family likes and I don't want to forget how I did it.<br />
This Italian noodly soup fits the bill - it is amazingly delicious.<br />
And very very simple.<br />
If you have read this far I would really recommend you make this for yourself, today if possible!<br />
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Italian Noodly Soup<br />
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1lb Italian Sausage<br />
1/2 medium onion diced<br />
4 cloves garlic minced<br />
2 tsp dried oregano<br />
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes<br />
either 2 TBS tomato paste or 1 jar spaghetti sauce<br />
1 28oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes<br />
2 bay leaves<br />
6 - 8 cups chicken broth<br />
1 lb noodles - corkscrew or mafalda or fusilli pasta (I use gluten free for my serving) (cook in salty water)<br />
spinach (frozen cube) or 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves<br />
salt and pepper<br />
shredded mozzarella<br />
grated Parmesan cheese<br />
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Heat some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and brown, breaking up. Add onion and cook until soft, add garlic, oregano and red pepper flakes cook for a minute or so. Add tomato paste and cook for several minutes until it turns a little darker. Or add spaghetti sauce. Then add tomatoes, bay leaves chicken broth and spinach. (if you use fresh basil leaves wait to add them until just before serving.) Bring to a boil and then bring down and let simmer for 30 minutes. In a separate pan boil the noodles al dente. When ready to serve put some noodles in a bowl, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.<br />
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I linked this to <a href="http://grannysvitalvittles.com/scratch-cookin-tuesday-182013/">Scratch Cookin' Tuesday.</a> Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-38457938177653574542012-07-24T22:35:00.000-04:002012-07-31T15:54:13.592-04:00Blender Salsa<div style="text-align: center;">
We have a tradition in our home - Taco Tuesdays. </div>
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It is a fairly new tradition about a year old or so. </div>
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Everyone loves it. </div>
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We often have <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/03/homemade-tortillas-and-taco-seasonings.html">beef/liver tacos</a> or chicken tacos and occasionally steak tacos. </div>
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Always with soft <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/03/homemade-tortillas-and-taco-seasonings.html">wheat tortillas</a> and corn tortilla chips. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(<a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2009/10/keeping-tortillas-warm-for-crowd.html">here</a> is how I keep the tortillas warm)</span></div>
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When I get totally taco-ed out I will make chicken enchiladas or<a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/06/taco-enchilada-lasagna.html"> enchilada lasagna</a>. </div>
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And on my birthday we have <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/08/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce.html">spaghetti</a> because, well, I love spaghetti. </div>
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The one thing I always make is homemade salsa. </div>
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It is so simple and fresh and delicious. </div>
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In "tomato season" I use all fresh locally grown 'maters. </div>
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In the winter I use canned fire roasted. </div>
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I love to add tomatillos but they aren't necessary for yummy salsa. </div>
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I add stuff until the blender is full. I always taste it before declaring "done" because it often needs a bit more of this or that.<br />
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Here is a recipe to start with - play with it and make it your own.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Blender Salsa</b></span></div>
4 or 5 large fresh in season tomatoes OR 1 large and 1 small can fire roasted tomatoes (can use plain also)<br />
1 small onion cut in big chunks<br />
2 cloves garlic peeled<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 handful of cilantro (I leave the stems on - they are blended up so why waste them?)<br />
1 green pepper cut in big chunks<br />
1 lime squeezed<br />
1 or more jalapenos - deseeded - be careful and use gloves, I have burnt my hands before and it is miserable.<br />
<b>Optional</b> - 6 or so tomatillos - cook in simmering water until they change from a bright green to a dull green. (You know to peel the papery outside and rinse them first right?) When I do this I use a bit less of the tomatoes.<br />
<b>Optional</b> - a handful of <a href="http://hungerandthirstforlife.blogspot.com/2012/07/wild-things-in-july-purslane.html">purslane</a> - a delicious <strike>weed</strike> <a href="http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/purslane.html"><strike>herb</strike></a> weed that adds lots of nutrients! <br />
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Put it all in a blender and blend away. Taste, adjust seasonings. Refrigerate for an hour at least to blend flavors. <br />
Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy!<br />
I am linking this to <a href="http://simplysugarandglutenfree.com/slightly-indulgent-tuesday-73112/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:">Slightly Indulgent Tuesday</a> <a href="http://grannysvitalvittles.com/scratch-cookin-tuesday-7312012/">Scratch Cookin' Tuesday</a> and the <a href="http://premeditatedleftovers.com/the-hearth-and-soul-hop-the-garden-is-overflowing-edition/">Hearth and Soul Hop</a>!Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-82896497135782097942012-07-14T19:20:00.000-04:002012-07-14T19:21:39.015-04:00Enjoy Eating Saturated Fats: They are good for you!This is a bit long but very informative and worth your time; I promise. The gentleman giving the talk a Dr. Donald W. Miller Jr. is a heart surgeon and he debunks current thought that saturated fats are bad for us.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vRe9z32NZHY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-27655324503662125792012-07-07T20:59:00.002-04:002012-07-12T09:42:17.265-04:00Meatballs for a Crowd<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi460qdA3uv3ECiXjdhwF2G9dnQj5s8EbKKb2QMkEYSvYmbbhd_FzxxrBAfKD_LS7dNYWkdpAphBlJcF_NJYKh8CYqHEpM54ZL8IbhyPsuuVxfoHsVIbxL9oal-TYToWtpggLlEeXPGQy0/s1600/Sue+and+John%253Bs+Lake+N+and+N+Shower+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi460qdA3uv3ECiXjdhwF2G9dnQj5s8EbKKb2QMkEYSvYmbbhd_FzxxrBAfKD_LS7dNYWkdpAphBlJcF_NJYKh8CYqHEpM54ZL8IbhyPsuuVxfoHsVIbxL9oal-TYToWtpggLlEeXPGQy0/s400/Sue+and+John%253Bs+Lake+N+and+N+Shower+037.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is spaghetti with meat sauce ;o) I didn't take a picture with the meatballs. Oops.</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you like your spaghetti with <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/08/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce.html">meat sauce</a> or with meatballs? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I admit that I am a <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/08/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce.html">meat sauce</a> fan. </div>
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I like to get meat and sauce in every bite. </div>
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But sometimes you just want to shake things up. </div>
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That is what I did today. </div>
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I made meatballs - for the very first time. </div>
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They were really good. </div>
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I made a ton of them because, well in order to use four different meats it needed to be tons. </div>
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I cooked them and then froze about two third of them to use later. </div>
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Now you don't need to use all the different types of meat.</div>
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I am sure these would be great without the liver.</div>
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I am just always looking for ways to feed this wonderful organ meat to my family. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoxAwYM8yX4TxQokz_ZXvQ42RXOIqJ2dJHUJz2E1QJbgLR8IFLJdSZvGrFkEAICWzGEY2SuAaSfQ6G4rmB_C9ZI8VU4ic53dIzBcWxlB5-rX-RM-1xqaVNRdMpmjzclzTCTE1Zb08iUZI/s1600/Sue+and+John%253Bs+Lake+N+and+N+Shower+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoxAwYM8yX4TxQokz_ZXvQ42RXOIqJ2dJHUJz2E1QJbgLR8IFLJdSZvGrFkEAICWzGEY2SuAaSfQ6G4rmB_C9ZI8VU4ic53dIzBcWxlB5-rX-RM-1xqaVNRdMpmjzclzTCTE1Zb08iUZI/s200/Sue+and+John%253Bs+Lake+N+and+N+Shower+044.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recycled picture from spaghetti with meat sauce post - but isn't she cute?!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Also, you could just use sweet Italian sausage and I suppose they could be made with just hamburger meat but they wouldn't be anywhere near as tasty. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Meatballs for a crowd </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(60 or so depending on size)</span></div>
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1 lb beef liver ground in the blender to mush (sounds gross but trust me) </div>
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1 bag spinach added to liver and blended with it (or use thawed frozen cubes)</div>
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1.5 lbs ground beef - the best you can afford and find</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
.5 lb Sweet Italian sausage and .5 lb spicy Italian sausage - once again the best you can find</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
4 large eggs - hopefully from happy free range chickens</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 sleeve of saltines (or there abouts, I had been saving the stale ones for this) blended - or use good bread crumbs just add salt then to the mix.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 onion diced</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2 TBS Italian Seasoning</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2 TBS garlic seasoning</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2 TBS dried parsley</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 400 degrees. </li>
<li>Prepare a large pan by greasing it - I used those butter wrappers from my freezer.</li>
<li>Put in a huge bowl and mix away. I put my hands in empty bread bags turned inside out to do the squishing and mixing. </li>
<li>Take a small handful of the mix and gently roll into a ball and place on your pan, repeat until your pan is full. </li>
<li>Cook for 20 minutes and then check and make sure done by either cutting in half or using a thermometer.</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I had planned on adding Parmesan cheese but forgot to add it, I think they tasted fine without but you could certainly add it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
Linking this to Gallery of Favorites @ <a href="http://premeditatedleftovers.com/gallery-of-favorites-76/">Premeditated Leftovers</a> and <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/index/Blog/Blog.html">The 21st Century Housewife</a>. And <a href="http://www.foodrenegade.com/fight-back-friday-july-6th/">Fight Back Friday</a> @ Food Renegade. Miz Helen's <a href="http://mizhelenscountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/07/full-plate-thursday-7-12-12.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FVLEOK+%28Miz+Helen%27s+Country+Cottage%29">Full Plate Thursday</a>.Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-11212890044632212112012-05-08T15:22:00.000-04:002012-05-08T15:22:00.804-04:006 Pictures to Keep in Your PhoneI forget lots of things. I blame it on "Sometimers". That and I have to keep lots of information about a lot of people in my poor little brain. I recently heard of the most wonderful hint that has changed my life (well maybe not that drastic, but maybe so).<br />
<br />
Use my phone to take picture of things I need to know but don't have memorized.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaSQKOo1YiKFg6qxk8D0Dl1YHRWMznf35yBGRFPIIqiJLBkPnIVXWG6SuRKK4Zioj-Hff8veVdqkh4ABfvAB2dBGSYDL9ZmBg9PG_xcyfGX-I0MPuFzAQUJPhZOFts4TRNCReIBYNgZs/s1600/phone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaSQKOo1YiKFg6qxk8D0Dl1YHRWMznf35yBGRFPIIqiJLBkPnIVXWG6SuRKK4Zioj-Hff8veVdqkh4ABfvAB2dBGSYDL9ZmBg9PG_xcyfGX-I0MPuFzAQUJPhZOFts4TRNCReIBYNgZs/s200/phone.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My top 6 (plus) suggestions:<br />
<br />
1. Take your kids photos
when you are going out so that if (hopefully never) get lost you can
just show the picture to the police so that you won't have to remember
what he/she was wearing that day. They love to have their pictures taken so this is perfect. And if you have ever had to come up with what they are wearing in an emergency situation you will be so grateful for this tip.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhRSyqR55tDr0C0vf8jB-cWQKy0BofnVzCDfFPrCy9W6rQ3UKC13brkzHCHly2K7HkbHdhWxtj7QMWdXAygYyL31n04UlYtdwuJFP3rThyFSOMWQMdc5ue82MX5_crnCi_bP4A0yvqTY/s1600/First+Day+of+School+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhRSyqR55tDr0C0vf8jB-cWQKy0BofnVzCDfFPrCy9W6rQ3UKC13brkzHCHly2K7HkbHdhWxtj7QMWdXAygYyL31n04UlYtdwuJFP3rThyFSOMWQMdc5ue82MX5_crnCi_bP4A0yvqTY/s320/First+Day+of+School+001.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
2. Picture of the razor and refills my husband likes - I can't tell you how many times I have stood in front of the bajillion choices.<br />
<br />
3. A picture of my printer cartridge so I buy the right ones!<br />
<br />
4. Travel confirmation numbers - just take a picture of your computer screen and voila'.<br />
<br />
5. A reminder of where I have parked - this is wonderful when you are in a big parking lot or in a big city.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_TdzpvVJ5R3QS2nvy6Y2OVA5qCRlavrx2ttQSES3DbRymcxdLVeiufKrMRSZMy-QKYPRdV_C-Z4Z5BcghFhdYE08DcNj0LJFb_OVAfxsiFjXENUzdsQSNfGbLfhRewZyAP3odozUh6w/s1600/parked-cars-on-street_w725_h483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_TdzpvVJ5R3QS2nvy6Y2OVA5qCRlavrx2ttQSES3DbRymcxdLVeiufKrMRSZMy-QKYPRdV_C-Z4Z5BcghFhdYE08DcNj0LJFb_OVAfxsiFjXENUzdsQSNfGbLfhRewZyAP3odozUh6w/s320/parked-cars-on-street_w725_h483.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
6. Picture of poison ivy so I can be sure I am not touching it or attempting to forage it!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3W2jsHZrHIqi6rf-_ib8tf28XM0_OBv6bw0lQMyjOh7Wcwi3BzT6publMBAoEovQzH0IdCBd5C5OSyE0Jxi5XGHSwQmuj7QA9dHInjfU69hFxIX7kLX5SgJHbKK6uhiiBLA7Br1XN0U/s1600/poison+ivy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3W2jsHZrHIqi6rf-_ib8tf28XM0_OBv6bw0lQMyjOh7Wcwi3BzT6publMBAoEovQzH0IdCBd5C5OSyE0Jxi5XGHSwQmuj7QA9dHInjfU69hFxIX7kLX5SgJHbKK6uhiiBLA7Br1XN0U/s320/poison+ivy.gif" width="125" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poison Ivy </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
bonus - picture of Christmas/birthday gift possibilities. I think this would be a great way to let your sweetie know what you want (forward the picture to him/her).<br />
<br />
If I was traveling abroad I would use it for things like the street my hotel is on, a picture of my passport, insurance card, and a current picture of myself and anyone traveling with me. Oh, and a copy of my itinerary.<br />
<br />
Be careful not to put too much information in your phone in case it is lost or stolen and there would be the possibility of some less than honest person using it for evil gains. <br />
<br />
Tell me how do you use your smart phone to make your life easier??Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-70342864928215226002012-05-04T13:40:00.000-04:002012-07-07T22:25:03.765-04:00Homemade Ketchup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQf6IQRLxotbN7psmkV1iFJJpqVf2O5-f2zwBf7nJoPNHWW_JfNY-Ldd0zzf1oZWBLqRT_Fp6fe54qJwpKj4WJK4hGxt9Zcg8x2EQ5sy8e88LdUQbfNjWpIIP6UK0Hai2dNUfzJR5ow0c/s1600/ketchup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQf6IQRLxotbN7psmkV1iFJJpqVf2O5-f2zwBf7nJoPNHWW_JfNY-Ldd0zzf1oZWBLqRT_Fp6fe54qJwpKj4WJK4hGxt9Zcg8x2EQ5sy8e88LdUQbfNjWpIIP6UK0Hai2dNUfzJR5ow0c/s320/ketchup.jpg" width="191" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have to admit this is not a frugal recipe, at all. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Especially if I use all organic ingredients. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But sometimes frugality has to (if possible) take the back seat to nutrition and health and taste. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It.just.does. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ketchup is more than a condiment to many people, I remember reading somewhere that the ketchup on the fries at McNasty was really the only thing worth eating. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, that was obviously before we realized how horrible HFCS is for us. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is however some truth to that. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have attempted ketchup in the past and it was always not quite right. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe it is because we have been using different organic ketchups for several years.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe our palates are more refined and used to good foods.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe, just maybe this is a delicious recipe - I am sure this is true!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-ingredients">
Homemade Ketchup</div>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2">1 small onion, chopped
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3">1/2 tsp cumin
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4">1/4 tsp ground cloves (you don't want whole)</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5">1/2 tsp powdered mustard </li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5">pinch of cayenne pepper (if you want a little kick) </li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6">1/2 tsp sea salt
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7">1 28 - ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8">1 (6-7ounce) can tomato paste
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-9">2 TBS unsulphured blackstrap molasses </li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-9">2 TBS honey - raw if you have it </li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-10">2 TBS apple cider vinegar (I uses unfiltered, raw) </li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-10">1/2 cup liquid - water, chicken broth, or I used 1/4 cup of my tomato juice I drained from the diced tomatoes plus 1/4 cup water </li>
</ul>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
Don't forget to be your own sous chef - mise en place really makes this go quickly. </div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
Chop your onions, drain your tomatoes, measure your spices. </div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
Heat
a skillet over medium heat until hot. </div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
Add onion, the cumin, clove, powdered mustard, sea salt, and your 1/2 cup liquid and then saute until translucent and the water is mostly evaporated. 4-5 minutes or so. </div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
Remove from heat and add to a blender along with remaining
ingredients. </div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
Blend until smooth. </div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="text-align: center;">
Pour ketchup
into glass jars - this makes about 3 cups. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I haven't tried this but I am sure it could be frozen. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
So, what about you? Do you make your own condiments? Do your kids know you do crazy stuff like make your own ketchup? Do they care? <br />
<br />
<br />
I am linking this to <a href="http://mrsdullsnourishedkitchen.com/scratch-cookin-tuesday-582012/">Mrs. Dull's Scratch Cookin' Tuesday</a>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-32588299364577087852012-05-03T11:28:00.000-04:002012-05-03T11:28:41.887-04:00Ted Talk: Dan Phillips - Creative homes from Recylced Materials.This is another great Ted video - this guy makes the most amazing homes from things headed to the land fill. This is the type of creativity that takes upcycling to the ninja level!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gVLu99Ja2mA" width="560"></iframe>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-642920957963140422012-04-17T23:23:00.003-04:002012-04-18T00:03:57.604-04:00Chocolate Whipped Cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNs7fgzWktIIpfD-JgNalvycPycsaU7njvgor181jSN4VckjrqqNPjUWSE3L1vb-Bn46SEHxNztwnnvZQPmQyQg5aWZsWuIMLEWur9lhySwjevfxKVlWYBrroEPRTgvPSsNeBuA7lHmM/s1600/Sylvia+7+bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNs7fgzWktIIpfD-JgNalvycPycsaU7njvgor181jSN4VckjrqqNPjUWSE3L1vb-Bn46SEHxNztwnnvZQPmQyQg5aWZsWuIMLEWur9lhySwjevfxKVlWYBrroEPRTgvPSsNeBuA7lHmM/s320/Sylvia+7+bd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
We celebrated Sylvia's 7th (sob) birthday tonight with<a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/08/pizza-dough.html"> homemade pizza</a> - yum! and homemade chocolate cake with chocolate whipping cream and <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/05/ganache.html">ganache</a> (well, my version anyhow). It was delicious. The cake was super rich and chocolatey and didn't need normal frosting so I made chocolate flavored whipped cream to top it.<br />
<br />
Growing up I thought that canned rediwhip was the ultimate in whipped cream - that was before I knew what REAL whipped cream was. Using heavy whipping cream (comes in a carton like milk) and making it from scratch is so much better. Better tasting, better for you, just better.<br />
<br />
You could also make this recipe with<a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/06/w-is-for-whipped-cream-coconut-whipped.html"> coconut milk</a> - I show you how <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/06/w-is-for-whipped-cream-coconut-whipped.html">here</a>, just add the chocolate to the bowl before you mix. <br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Chocolate Whipped Cream </span></i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">1 small container whipping cream - raw if at all possible</span></i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">1 heaping TBS sugar -</span></i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">1 heaping TBS unsweetened powdered chocolate</span></i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">1-2 tsp <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/10/make-your-own-vanilla-extract.html">vanilla </a></span></i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i></div>First, when you are baking your cake, put your bowl (stainless steel works best) and beaters in the freezer to get them crazy cold. 20 minutes should do it. Remove from freezer and immediately dump all the ingredients in. If you are using a stand mixer whip on low in the beginning and then whip on high for a minute or two - be careful because if it goes too long you will get chocolate butter. When you lift the beaters out of the bowl you will get lovely soft peaks and that is how you know it is done. Super simple and delicious.<br />
<br />
I am linking this post to the <a href="http://premeditatedleftovers.com/hearth-and-soul-hop-and-announcement-416/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:%20PremeditatedLeftovers%20%28Premeditated%20Leftovers%29">Hearth and Soul Hop</a> - the place to find real food recipes made with love!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61Ohe14awLP8O2KQH4mTXvJnLXsioszxRoVmIlwyJUvlvs1D3fn2wtBQB0FdNibdbfTwESlFdxoaM7WqVqDgwH3q8zD7v-ExWLTYA3nwYvxU7nxSHehdH22h-wQx7jqIXVDy0LUuifEY/s1600/Sylvia+BD+Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61Ohe14awLP8O2KQH4mTXvJnLXsioszxRoVmIlwyJUvlvs1D3fn2wtBQB0FdNibdbfTwESlFdxoaM7WqVqDgwH3q8zD7v-ExWLTYA3nwYvxU7nxSHehdH22h-wQx7jqIXVDy0LUuifEY/s400/Sylvia+BD+Cake.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sylvia's 7th Birthday Cake - chocolate deliciousness!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: 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style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-64356496817727301452012-04-11T15:38:00.001-04:002012-04-13T22:58:52.666-04:00I found it on Pinterest - BBQ PorkSo, just about everybody and there brother/sister is on <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a> - it is the new social time suck! Sorry, Facebook I have a new love.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I have been pinning up a storm - lots and lots of great recipes to try. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I thought I would actually make one of them instead of just pinning. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And I am so glad I did. </div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the easiest recipe ever. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And delicious. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I quote from my 14 year old son; "oh, my gosh Mom that is delicious - this is like perfect, I want this for my birthday dinner, WOW!" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxeFlScdbV1MuNQ7Xl651hZUsNmgU5YyND_Alseu4ZWtcAuUX5Sknn2awsWtkj5PxHJprjG2tDw3HIqtmjwL41UYvGFcpC-bRO8f2fLc2uN6GPfy-NSuRzW7sd2SINkGezI4TK3V7qeg/s1600/pulled+pork+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxeFlScdbV1MuNQ7Xl651hZUsNmgU5YyND_Alseu4ZWtcAuUX5Sknn2awsWtkj5PxHJprjG2tDw3HIqtmjwL41UYvGFcpC-bRO8f2fLc2uN6GPfy-NSuRzW7sd2SINkGezI4TK3V7qeg/s1600/pulled+pork+picture.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The recipe is from <a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/cooking/bbq-pork-in-the-crock-pot/">The Happy Housewife</a>. It has 3 ingredients - Pork, brown sugar and worchestershire sauce. That's it. Seriously. Now I had to make it a bit different because I didn't have enough worchestershire sauce. I am<a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/cooking/bbq-pork-in-the-crock-pot/"> linking to the original</a> and giving you what I did.<br />
<br />
BBQ Pork<br />
1 boneless pork roast<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup worchestershire sauce<br />
1/4 cup soy sauce<br />
1/4 cup A-1 sauce<br />
<br />
In a crock put the roast, then brown sugar then the liquids. Cook on high for 1 hour. Cook on low for 5 more hours. Shred and serve on buns.<br />
<br />
I am linking this up to the <a href="http://premeditatedleftovers.com/gallery-of-favorites-413/">Gallery of Favorites</a> at Premeditated Leftovers.Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-76233845843420765622012-01-24T08:45:00.000-05:002012-01-24T08:45:49.964-05:00Mini Oven Puffed Pancakes with Raspberry Sauce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4mOP0_Esbgsk8R85gyyD7z_RfGqtgdHTlNEcptVSnp4TB6jeWadOWfEtaibpekt88bLHFZ4IqoP3l8rHYZCPIWJOw0DftzjS_SbcZccNE-1T4tBb3yPTRLKb1p3lZTxtY3jxxXH9QQE/s1600/raspberry-jam-06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4mOP0_Esbgsk8R85gyyD7z_RfGqtgdHTlNEcptVSnp4TB6jeWadOWfEtaibpekt88bLHFZ4IqoP3l8rHYZCPIWJOw0DftzjS_SbcZccNE-1T4tBb3yPTRLKb1p3lZTxtY3jxxXH9QQE/s1600/raspberry-jam-06.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">One of the reasons I started blogging recipes (actually the main reason) was so I could remember what I have cooked and what my family loves. </div><div style="text-align: center;">You see I often try things or make up recipes that my family loves. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Which is wonderful until my middle -aged "sometimers" kicks in and I can't remember how I made it or even that I had (see here where I forgot I made <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/10/beef-shanks-w-ginger-cumin-coconut-milk.html">beef shank</a> and blogged like it <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2011/03/old-fashioned-vegetable-beef-shank-soup.html">was new</a> - embarrassing!). </div><div style="text-align: center;">So, when I make a winner I like to put it here so I have it permanently and I don't have to go hunting through my bookmarks or bazillion recipe books or google a recipe or hope I can remember.</div><div style="text-align: center;">This way too I can send friends who request recipes here. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Let me tell you this is one recipe I don't want to forget!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sara at Our Best Bites created the most delicious breakfast dish - <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2012/01/mini-puffed-oven-pancakes-with-berry-sauce/">mini oven puffed pancakes with berry sauce</a> -these things are delicious. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Not too sweet. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Fun. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Healthy-ish. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Quick - I made these this morning and we had them made and eaten in about 30 minutes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> You need to go look at her beautiful pictures of <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2012/01/mini-puffed-oven-pancakes-with-berry-sauce/">this dish</a> - really, go ahead and then please come back. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hello again!</div><i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
</b></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Mini Oven Puffed Pancakes with Raspberry Sauce </b></span></i><br />
3/4 cup flour<br />
3/4 cup milk (I used raw whole milk)<br />
2 pastured eggs<br />
1/8 tsp salt - the good stuff<br />
3 TBS butter melted<br />
powdered sugar <br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Raspberry Sauce</b></span></i><br />
1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries<br />
2 TBS <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Old-Fashioned-Raspberry-Jam-230700">raspberry jam</a> (ours is homemade - you must learn to can and make this it is UH-MAZING!)<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Put your mini muffin pans in the oven also to get them hot - this recipe makes 24.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile in your blender dump the milk, flour, eggs and salt. Blend until smooth.<br />
Remove HOT pan from oven and grease each little cup with melted butter. I use a pastry brush, works great. Fill each cup with pancake mix to 3/4 full. Bake for 15-20 minutes - until all puffy and lightly brown. Pop out and then spread some melted butter on top, drizzle raspberry sauce and dust with plenty of powdered sugar. <br />
<br />
To make raspberry sauce - in a small pan heat the raspberries and jelly, using a spoon to crush the berries. Taste and see if you need to add a bit of sugar.<br />
<br />
Josh just ate his with maple syrup - also delicious.<br />
<br />
<br />
I think these would be great topped with cinnamon and sugar instead of the raspberry sauce and powdered sugar. Or a quick chocolate sauce. The possibilities seem endless.<br />
<br />
This recipe is certainly easy peasy lemon squeezy!!Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-1853204464464367212012-01-17T13:00:00.002-05:002012-01-17T23:23:28.029-05:00Tiny Tip Tuesday "Reply to Comment"<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you heard the exciting news for Blogger Blogs?? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our comment section now has the "reply to comment"!! ie "threaded commenting".</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Woohoo! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It makes so much more sense that way. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You can make a comment on my post, OR if you have a question or comment on someone else's comment well they will know you do!</span></div><br />
Whenever I have had several comments come in on a post and I haven't had a chance to respond I would have to do something like this:<br />
<br />
<ol id="bc_0_9TB"><li class="comment" id="bc_0_7B" kind="b"><div class="avatar-image-container" style="background-color: yellow;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafi8UVQtqmvkF9aCixxQ_sgIabVG_lc8EJi-tGr8XoV0kNW8X_wuCfv2d1HEuskRVzwzKEGpXvF2fj462g-aQDSpO0RSwwApiS8S1UYLw6KiGgmp5kCW078vC7ZJxQHqWawu0mnBAQac/s45/P0907172106329.jpg" /></div><div class="comment-block" id="c498708728443502033"><div class="comment-header" id="bc_0_7M" kind="m" style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><cite class="user blog-author"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027" rel="nofollow">Christy</a></cite><span class="icon user blog-author"></span><span class="datetime secondary-text">Jan 1, 2012 12:38 PM</span></span></div><blockquote class="comment-content" id="bc_0_7MC" style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Alea - I think crazy simple is a wonderful and appropriate motto for you!<br />
<br />
April- I hope you do give it a try! Thanks for the New Years wishes - I wish the same for you and yours!<br />
<br />
Michelle - you are welcome! I wish we had blueberry bushes - oh yum!<br />
<br />
Jackie - it is wonderful with a cup of coffee! I hope you try it.</span></blockquote><br />
Now with the nifty "reply" I can comment below each lovely note. Be sure to click on the <b>subscribe by email</b> at the bottom of the comment form so if someone replies to you it will send you an email telling you!<br />
<br />
If you are on blogger and want to activate this wonderful feature it is super simple.<br />
To add the <u>reply feature</u> to your comments,<br />
<ul><li>go to <b>settings</b></li>
<li> then <b>comments</b> </li>
<li>and then <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD10">in the <b>comment placement form</b> </span></li>
<li><span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD10">click on <b>embedded.</b> </span></li>
</ul>Easy peasy lemon squeezy!<br />
<br />
I am linking this to <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2012/01/wfmw-preschool-shoe-tip/">Works for Me Wednesday</a> @ We are that family<br />
<span class="comment-actions secondary-text" id="bc_0_7MN" kind="m"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7208986168060089190&postID=185320446446436721" kind="i" target="_self"></a><span class="item-control blog-admin pid-2042369100"></span></span></div></li>
</ol>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-53215071961442914072012-01-12T12:53:00.004-05:002012-01-16T10:06:00.229-05:00Teriyaki Chicken over White Rice Noodle<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAASPR_ZNvCHw4CkSCoRPVyHmIXwBe9KybJiZDc4sH0VmX_jLAtWbaEgtt1zexmruhs5du-wRoM9YSXDze68vH8f6ZPb_bR5BESHtG6l66cJn1tLNWTgbZNEhPgtcg6NTTCjoWvqfr8Q/s1600/Christmas+2011+etc+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAASPR_ZNvCHw4CkSCoRPVyHmIXwBe9KybJiZDc4sH0VmX_jLAtWbaEgtt1zexmruhs5du-wRoM9YSXDze68vH8f6ZPb_bR5BESHtG6l66cJn1tLNWTgbZNEhPgtcg6NTTCjoWvqfr8Q/s320/Christmas+2011+etc+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Teriyaki Chicken over White Rice Noodles</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Last week I pinned a recipe from Jamie Cooks it Up! aptly named <a href="http://jamiecooksitup.blogspot.com/2011/03/teriyaki-chicken-and-noodle-bowl.html">Teriyaki Chicken and Noodle Bowl.</a> This is my take on it - and it is DEE_LICIOUS!! No disappointment this time! My family (and especially my hard to please husband) has requested it be made again and again. The only request was more veggies, please. I can so do that!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><u><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span> </b></i></u><br />
<u><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Teriyaki Chicken over White Rice Noodles</span></b></i></u><br />
1 Chicken breast or 4 boneless, skinless thighs or 1 bag frozen raw shrimp<br />
3T coconut oil, divided<br />
1 tsp sesame oil. <br />
3 large carrots diced<br />
1 small zucchini sliced (into circles then quarters) <br />
1 red pepper and 1/2 green pepper diced<br />
8 mushrooms diced<br />
1/2 a red onion or 1 small yellow onion, diced<br />
1 lb package of rice noodles.<br />
Crushed peanuts or cashews- optional <br />
<br />
<br />
<u><i><b>Teriaki Sauce</b></i></u><br />
1 1/2 Cups cold water<br />
3 T corn starch (I will use 2 next time and see if it works)<br />
3/4 C packed brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup soy sauce<br />
1tsp garlic powder<br />
1 tsp sesame oil<br />
<br />
<br />
1. Cut up your chicken into small bite size pieces. Heat a large skillet and then add 2 TBS of oil. Toss the chicken in cook, stirring often but let the pieces get a lovely golden brown. Salt and pepper to taste. When they are just about done add a tsp of sesame oil.<br />
<br />
2. Before I began I chopped my veggies (mise-en-place) - because I am not fast and I wanted to pay attention to the chicken. But if you are a speedy dicer you can do that now while the meat is cooking.<br />
<br />
3. Get your water boiling for your noodles. Cook to your package specifications or if you are like me and bought them at an Asian Grocery Store and the package is in Japanese just keep testing until the noodles are done. Don't use salt when you cook them ( I am usually a big salter).<br />
<br />
4. Once the chicken is done take it out of the pan and put in a bowl.<br />
<br />
5. Add the rest of your oil to the pan and then the veggies. Cook them until crisp tender. After everything was cooked except the pesky carrots I added a bit of water (chicken stock would have been even better) to steam them some. Remove the veggies and put them in with the cooked chicken.<br />
<br />
6. Make your sauce - in a large measuring cup put 1 1/2 cups cold water. Add 1 TBS of cornstarch and whisk, then the next and whisk and finally the third TBS making sure to whisk it - whisk it good (reminds me of that silly song) Next do the same with brown sugar stirring in 1/4 cup at a time to make sure it all dissolves. Next add your soy sauce, sesame oil and garlic powder.<br />
<br />
After your veggies are removed from the pan you can put the sauce in and whisk it until it thickens. This only takes about 3 minutes to get a lovely, fragrant sauce.<br />
<br />
The final step is to put it all together - I poured the sauce over the chicken and veggies and stirred and then put over the noodles.<br />
<br />
Delicious!! And if you are like me, you can add some crushed nuts -but my kids were like "no thanks on the nuts Mom" - really, whose kids are they?<br />
<br />
Better than take-out ANY DAY!<br />
<br />
I am linking this to <a href="http://www.ekatskitchen.com/2012/01/thai-lemongrass-chicken-curry-friday.html">EKat's Friday Potluck</a>.Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-12565760454844157772012-01-12T00:29:00.000-05:002012-01-12T00:29:05.029-05:00Crayons, Crayons, Crayons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUwHnGXenGl113f5uCfvHxPlpvDfQMbyoc3m7gnQDJIMwmKLh7FVilGL55e5rtWkLusJl4Px3ZABIkz_SokQ6ULUdVguV6KSJB_zg1f79aG7x5_RJjPtSe3Cty7AL75DBo2QkC5VlaKhs/s1600/crayons.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUwHnGXenGl113f5uCfvHxPlpvDfQMbyoc3m7gnQDJIMwmKLh7FVilGL55e5rtWkLusJl4Px3ZABIkz_SokQ6ULUdVguV6KSJB_zg1f79aG7x5_RJjPtSe3Cty7AL75DBo2QkC5VlaKhs/s1600/crayons.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I had a huge container of crayons - most of them broken - all of them unloved - few of them used. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have been holding onto them thinking I was going to do that amazing craft. </div><div style="text-align: center;">You know, melt them in cupcake liners and make heart crayons.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> (put a marble in it and it makes the heart shape). </div><div style="text-align: center;">Thing is I have been "going to do it" for at least 8 years.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> I kid you not. </div><div style="text-align: center;">It was time. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Time to let go. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have been moving it from here to there for years. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I threw the whole container away. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Yes I did. </div><div style="text-align: center;">It was incredibly freeing. </div><div style="text-align: center;">No worries, Sylvia still has plenty of NEW crayons she got for Christmas. </div><div style="text-align: center;">She actually likes not having the huge container. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Is there something you are holding onto, because your frugal self says you will use it someday? Something that is taking up valuable space? </div><div style="text-align: center;">Or just creating clutter? </div><div style="text-align: center;">I challenge you to let it go - you don't have to trash it, you can donate it, sell it, freecyle it. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Just let it go. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Then tomorrow look and see if you can get rid of more - you will be glad you did!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hoarding is not frugal. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I promise!</div>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-83798110494953032112012-01-04T20:13:00.001-05:002012-01-11T23:45:25.991-05:00Don't you hate it when a recipe sounds fabulous and it isn't??I am not one to make New Year's Resolutions but I do like goals. I have several right now and one is to cook from my vast array of cookbooks and saved links once a week - I hate having the same thing all the time.<br />
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So in an effort to actually "use" my large collection of recipe books I made two different meals in the last week that sounded UH-MAZING and turned out just eh, ok. Don't you hate that?? It is one of the hazzards of trying something new. It actually happens more often than I would like to admit.<br />
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First I made a Rachel Ray recipe called <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/supreme-pizza-pasta-salad-recipe/index.html">Supreme Pizza Pasta Salad</a>. It makes a huge amount and while I had only one person truly dislike it - no one loved it or wanted second helpings which meant I was stuck eating it for lunch all week. I am giving the last serving to the chickens - I just can't eat another helping.<br />
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Then tonight I made <a href="http://search.swagbucks.com/?cmd=ct-rd-click&id=1013616&tp=w&ip=184.18.229.24&pd=false&b=0&f=0&hst=http%3A%2F%2Fthepioneerwoman.com%2Fcooking%2F2012%2F01%2Fcheeseburger-salad%2F&frm=http%3A%2F%2Fdsclick.infospace.com%2FClickHandler.ashx%3Fru%3Dhttp%253a%252f%252fthepioneerwoman.com%252fcooking%252f2012%252f01%252fcheeseburger-salad%252f%26ld%3D20120105%26ap%3D4%26app%3D1%26c%3Dprodegemeta3.swagbucks%26s%3Dprodegemeta3%26coi%3D239137%26cop%3Dmain-title%26ep%3D3%26euip%3D184.18.229.24%26npp%3D4%26p%3D0%26pp%3D0%26pvaid%3D4e5e5114c9a84e34b1fe825cd50af5a2%26hash%3D942258B54350CC2D7A41DB1457A1BDCF&ncc=0">Cheeseburger Salad</a> which I didn't know was a Pioneer Woman/Pampered Chef recipe until I went to write this post. It was ok but not great. I think if I try it again I would put all the different components in individual bowls and let everyone make their own - like how we do tacos, that way we can have things like sweet and sour pickles and chopped olives to add if you wanted. I would also make a mustard vinaigrette for the mustard lovers in addition to my homemade Ranch dressing.<br />
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Will I keep trying? Absolutely - I have a fairly good handle on what my kids will like and so I tend to cook towards that. I have found that most recipes are too bland for my family. We like it spicier, saucier - lots of flavor. But every once in awhile I go out on a limb like my <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2011/10/easy-african-chicken-stew.html">African Chicken Stew</a> and we end up loving it. And that is why I keep on reading the cookbooks and blogs and watching cooking shows. You just never know!<br />
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How about you? Do you cook from your cookbooks? Do you try new things? Does your family like it when you do?<br />
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<i>I am linking this to We Are That Family's <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2012/01/wfmw-the-boiling-pot/">Works for me Wednesday</a>!</i>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-79935049069622614892011-12-02T14:51:00.000-05:002011-12-02T14:51:04.910-05:00Blueberry Coffee Cake<h3>There is no story today, there is nothing but a fabulous coffee cake recipe. It is crazy simple and goes together quickly. It is our new favorite. Try it, you'll like it!! </h3><h3> </h3><h3>Blueberrry Coffee Cake</h3><span class="duration"><span class="value-title" title="PT35M"></span></span><h3 id="rI">Ingredients:</h3><ul><li class="ingredient">2 cups flour</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 cup sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient"> 2 tsp. baking powder</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 tsp. salt </li>
<li class="ingredient">1 1/2 tsp. grated lemon peel(don't omit this if you can help it - it really makes a difference)</li>
<li class="ingredient">1/2 cup butter, softened (1 stick)</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 cup milk (whole)</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 eggs slightly beaten (from free range chickens if you can get it!)</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 tsp. <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/10/make-your-own-vanilla-extract.html">vanilla</a> (homemade if possible)</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries </li>
<li class="ingredient">Cinnamon and sugar to sprinkle on top </li>
</ul><h3 id="rP">Icing</h3><h3 id="rP"> </h3><ul><li class="ingredient">1/4 tsp. almond extract </li>
<li class="ingredient">3-5 tsp. milk </li>
<li class="ingredient">1 cup powdered sugar </li>
</ul><h3 id="rP">Directions</h3>Heat oven to 375. Grease a 13x9 inch pan. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and lemon peel. Using pastry blender or fork, cut in butter. Add milk, eggs and vanilla. Stir well. Pour 3/4 batter into greased pan. Top with blueberries. Spoon remaining batter over blueberries. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Bake for 35 minutes. Cool 30 minutes. In small bowl , blend icing ingredients. Drizzle over warm cake.Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-84722788529260103662011-10-18T22:35:00.000-04:002011-10-18T22:35:24.193-04:00Don't Buy StuffFunny SNL Skit - crazy but I bet we all know people like this couple!<br />
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<object height="288" width="512"><param name="movie" value="http://www.hulu.com/embed/J4vJO8oTo5zAO0QrO_sbLQ"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/J4vJO8oTo5zAO0QrO_sbLQ" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="512" height="288" allowFullScreen="true"></embed></object>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-12654585446865344812011-10-17T21:52:00.003-04:002011-10-19T07:55:22.847-04:00Easy African Chicken Stew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicrqxihZVeOLhXprfAxVnISPSqlLwfw9VRzkytXS6X8vY1y6llA71HqgG1SAK004fNE1DauStYV-Ac2dyn-znmMAOBSWtVLRGdTwA5d__pcIZnYdRwkBc6uzuxayiIH7bOq0FY4vkJi_w/s1600/African+Chicken+Stew+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicrqxihZVeOLhXprfAxVnISPSqlLwfw9VRzkytXS6X8vY1y6llA71HqgG1SAK004fNE1DauStYV-Ac2dyn-znmMAOBSWtVLRGdTwA5d__pcIZnYdRwkBc6uzuxayiIH7bOq0FY4vkJi_w/s320/African+Chicken+Stew+003.JPG" width="195" /></a></div><br />
I am not sure how authentic it is but we sure liked it. Most African Chicken Stews have peanuts or peanut butter in it but I didn't want that flavor tonight. This is a bit sweet, but savory also. It got 2 thumbs up all around. No one was crazy about the chickpeas except me but I liked the texture.<br />
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<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">African Chicken Stew</span></b></i></div><br />
2 large or 3 smallish boneless skinless chicken breast - from happy free range chickens if possible Or thighs or a combination - <br />
1TBS coconut oil<br />
1 large onion diced (largish chunks are ok)<br />
3 whole carrots peeled and sliced<br />
3 or 4 cloves of garlic minced<br />
1 large can fire roasted tomatoes or home canned tomatoes<br />
1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp cumin<br />
1/4 tsp tumeric<br />
pepper<br />
2 tsp honey (I just squirted some in the pan)<br />
1 cup sliced zucchini or summer squash<br />
1 cup sliced bell peppers - green, red and orange if you have it.<br />
1 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans)<br />
1/2 cup golden raisins<br />
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In a large stew pot saute' onions and carrots in the oil over medium heat.. Slice the chicken into strips and then into smaller pieces - I slice my chicken horizontally first so you get 2 thin-ish pieces. Turn up the heat to medium high and add chicken and minced garlic stirring to combine. Put lid on and cook for about 2 minutes. Uncover and stir well. Add in your tomatoes, cinnamon, cumin, tumeric, pepper, honey, zucchini and bell peppers. Stir again and cover - boil for 10-15 minutes (you want your carrots soft) uncovering to stir occasionally. Add chickpeas and raisins, stir and cook a couple minutes more to heat through.<br />
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I served this over rice but it would be great with couscous. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTMVuztLEBgk3lOzxyQQFcD2vdc3_Xsn4ALw9yyHdM9Hg9wUlUEBEqEIhmCjF5LtDLOVJNToCPoUJuadKBtkYCblkhdKy9-KMc7plo9_TclJ2cJWXQa7kYGHitCcR4_GTnnF4I3v2n5N8/s1600/African+Chicken+Stew+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTMVuztLEBgk3lOzxyQQFcD2vdc3_Xsn4ALw9yyHdM9Hg9wUlUEBEqEIhmCjF5LtDLOVJNToCPoUJuadKBtkYCblkhdKy9-KMc7plo9_TclJ2cJWXQa7kYGHitCcR4_GTnnF4I3v2n5N8/s320/African+Chicken+Stew+002.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I am linking this to <a href="http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/2011/10/monday-mania-10172011/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheHealthyHomeEconomist+%28The+Healthy+Home+Economist%29">Monday Mania</a> @ The Healthy Home Economist, and I am excited to also be linking it to the <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/index/Blog/Entries/2011/10/17_The_Hearth_and_Soul_Hop_with_The_21st_Century_Housewife.html">Hearth and Soul Hop</a>! Plus <a href="http://raisinghomemakers.com/2011/homemaking-link-up-48/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RaisingHomemakers+%28Raising+Homemakers%29">The Homemaking Link Up</a> @ Raising HomemakersChristyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-82357527222650549142011-10-16T18:54:00.002-04:002011-10-16T18:59:31.691-04:00Greens and Mustardy Cheesy Shells<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwx_irQq0IFcUadGgvejQ2ad5dllzGlJxxYwDbv_vmPY-d8REIA40M5-aozBRnNhpXK65ykqBQX3cpNb5QV4F1Ag8tTJKU6hBZvQgp4_hnumdXeUFB5bQqq1rKuKJkBDgWsY9q3yLWTvU/s1600/054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwx_irQq0IFcUadGgvejQ2ad5dllzGlJxxYwDbv_vmPY-d8REIA40M5-aozBRnNhpXK65ykqBQX3cpNb5QV4F1Ag8tTJKU6hBZvQgp4_hnumdXeUFB5bQqq1rKuKJkBDgWsY9q3yLWTvU/s320/054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Sometimes I take a great picture and sometimes you get blurry cheesy-ness. This is a blurry cheesy day. Don't let my lack of photographic talent keep you from trying this. It is a lovely side dish and would make a delicious light vegetarian meal.<br />
This gets a thumbs up from all my kids who were here to try it - 6 in all. I liked it and my husband tried it (he doesn't like noodles - weird, I know) and ate his portion without negative comment - that is a thumbs up from him!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Greens with Mustardy Cheesy Shells</b></u></span></div>12 oz medium shells (regular or g/f)<br />
2 TBS butter<br />
2 TBS flour (use cornstarch to make this g/f)<br />
1 1/4 cups whole milk<br />
1 TBS Dijon mustard (I didn't have any so I used a grainy one - made it pretty mustardy!)<br />
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg<br />
a pinch of cayenne pepper<br />
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese<br />
2 cubes frozen greens or 1 small bunch spinach thick stems discarded, leaves roughly chopped<br />
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1. Cook pasta according to package direction - I always put a big pinch of salt in my pot for flavor<br />
2. Thaw your cubes of frozen greens - I just put them in a zip top bag and set in a bowl of water to speed up the process - don't microwave please.<br />
3. If you don't want to clean another pan than after your noodles are cooked and you have drained them make your cheese sauce in the same pan. Melt the butter, add the flour cook for 2 minutes to loose the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in your milk. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes - you want it slightly thickened.<br />
4. Whisk in the mustard, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, 1 cup of the cheese, 1/2 tsp of salt and a 1/4 tsp pepper. Add your greens and stir around then the noodles stirring to combine.<br />
5. Heat your broiler and then transfer the noodly goodness to an ovenproof baking dish, top with remaining cheese. I didn't, but this would be good with a bread crumb topping. Broil until golden brown - watch closely because from golden brown to burnt is one distraction away from each other.<br />
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This was really good with a baked ham that I had glazed with a honey mustard sauce. (Pitch that bag of instant glaze that comes with many hams - full of nasty stuff - and make your own.)Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-21185098165386102022011-09-30T19:17:00.001-04:002011-11-28T22:17:07.167-05:00Leftover Fried RiceMy sister has had a crazy rough year - she is a young mommy with 5 little kids. In the last 12 months they have had some crazy hospitalizations - her baby was born premie, then he got RSV and almost died - he also has an aspirating problem and has had a feeding tube in for 6 months , she got mersa and almost died, her husband and two kids got it and needed emergency care, her daughter had a UTI that caused her to get so sick she needed hospitalizing.<br />
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The craziness doesn't end there - my nephew who is 6 years old had a major emergency surgery two days ago and is not doing well - he is in intense pain still. Poor buddy!<br />
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Each time, I have kept her other kids when someone was hospitalized. I am so blessed to be able to do that for her. I adore those kids, and so do my children - we love having them. The only problem comes at meal times. I don't cook like their mommy does. So when I put something like <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/09/beef-stew-with-beets.html">beef stew with beets</a> or <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2011/03/cheese-stuffed-jumbo-shells.html">stuffed shells</a> in front of them their knee jerk reaction is "I don't like that." I encourage them to try a little bit and also try to respect their preferences but with feeding my 8 and them I just can't be a short order cook.<br />
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Anyhow, I was sure I was going to get the "I don't like that" response when I put the pork fried rice in front of them tonight and I did but once they tasted it they were sold! They ate their bowlfuls without complaint and I even got a compliment or two. My kids ate second and thirds until it was all gone. All this to say this has been kid tested and kid approved!<br />
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I have no picture and to be honest it was rather grey looking, but the fried rice I made for dinner was simply delicious. That is the wonder of a dish like this - I threw together a bit of this and a bit of that and it turned out yummy!<br />
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Don't do exactly as I did - make it your own use up what is in your fridge. The simpler you make it the easier. I have made <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/08/fried-rice-bittman-style.html">Bittman's recipe</a> many times but tonight I just wanted to use up some leftovers.<br />
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Really this post is for me - so I remember what I did next time. If the process helps you - hurray!!<br />
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The secret to success is cold rice. I had some leftover sticky rice and I also made some long grain rice using <a href="http://frugalcrunchychristy.blogspot.com/2010/07/how-to-make-stock-from-chicken-feet.html">homemade chicken broth</a> to add to it. I cooked it first and then put it in the fridge to cool. <br />
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In my ginormous iron skillet I sauteed leftover chopped onion (about a quarter cup, if I didn't have leftovers I would have put more onion it), added a couple cubes of frozen already cooked peppers. (I will tell you about that another time), a cup of shredded zucchini that was frozen, leftover scrambled eggs (I always put a bunch of eggs in mine at the request of my family.) Plus broccoli and peas that were leftover from other meals. To this I put about a cup of pulled pork that I found in the freezer. It added a bit of sweetness to the dish. To all this I added a cup or so of homemade chicken broth.<br />
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As far as seasonings go, I splashed some soy sauce, 2 tsp or so of sesame oil and a pinch of chinese five spice. This makes a delicious combination of flavors that is perfect for children and adults alike. When it was all warmed through I added the rice and stirred to get all the delicious liquid on every rice grain.<br />
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So, in short you need:<br />
leftover, cold rice<br />
a protein of some sort - chicken or pork or even beef<br />
scrambled eggs<br />
vegetables - cooked <br />
soy sauce<br />
sesame oil<br />
chinese 5 spice<br />
a bit of bbq sauce - optionalChristyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-46554178107027315352011-09-27T16:12:00.004-04:002011-09-30T18:08:42.574-04:00Granola Bars - Crazy Awesome Delicious<div style="text-align: center;">Crazy Awesome Delicious Granola Bars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOdKM28oVTP3sW842J2O4KNp2IS2sC-vmxPyNfwfU7MbPUkaMVz_mmA3rx59Qr4Z6ybmq2qnd5G7Isk7ROZOIJIa9fml_jjTbl_MpFZKyp0XvCYjXxCCTbHTKK_rdE8BcidxARXCFns2Y/s1600/granola+bars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOdKM28oVTP3sW842J2O4KNp2IS2sC-vmxPyNfwfU7MbPUkaMVz_mmA3rx59Qr4Z6ybmq2qnd5G7Isk7ROZOIJIa9fml_jjTbl_MpFZKyp0XvCYjXxCCTbHTKK_rdE8BcidxARXCFns2Y/s320/granola+bars.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">um, I am just saying - these things are amazingly delicious. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I make granola often but I think these are the best yet.<br />
We like bars that you can take with you, and these stick together. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have found the perfect combination of butter and honey and granola -ee goodness. </div><br />
Granola Bars<br />
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4.5 cups oatmeal toasted<br />
1 cup self rising flour or 1 cup flour and 1 tsp baking soda <br />
1 stick of butter, melted<br />
1/2 cup honey<br />
1/3 cup brown sugar<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
2 cups total of addins - chocolate chips and pb chips, raisins, craisins, dried fruit bits, shredded coconut - whatever you want<br />
optionally you can add a bit of wheat germ and/or nuts. I also sometimes add about 3TBS baking cocoa.<br />
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Put your oatmeal on a large cookie sheet (with sides) and bake in a 325 degree oven for 15 minutes stirring once halfway. Remove and let cool.<br />
Meanwhile melt butter on stove in a small pan, add your honey and brown sugar stirring to combine. Just before you remove the pan add the vanilla and stir.<br />
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In a large bowl combine everything else. Then add in the butter/honey goodness and stir to completely combine. Put the granola in a large greased cake pan (9x13) pressing down hard. I cut an old plastic bag open and lay it on top to press on. Bake in a 325 degree oven for 18-22 minutes. Let cool 10 minutes and cut into bars. Then let it completely cool before removing.<br />
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These are sooooo much better than anything you can buy - and full of yummy, healthy goodness.<br />
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I am submitting this to Life As Mom's <a href="http://lifeasmom.com/2011/09/inexpensive-ways-to-prepare-for-an-emergency.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+lifeasmom%2FoGdA+%28Life+as+Mom%29">Frugal Friday</a> and Erin @ EKat's Kitchen's<a href="http://www.ekatskitchen.com/2011/09/friday-potluck-53.html"> Friday potluck</a>.Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-69325290056631020572011-08-29T22:00:00.009-04:002011-08-29T22:00:01.451-04:00Canning and a great Overnight Roast Tip<br />
I am so excited - <i><b>I have learned to can</b></i> - and it is stinkin' fun! So far we have made salsa, relish, tomato sauce, chunky tomatoes, beans, raspberry jelly and <u><b>my absolute favorite - tomato jelly</b></u>!!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Wahoo!! </b></span></div><br />
Tomorrow I will be attempting pears and peaches. I can't believe how much I enjoy doing this. For so long I was afraid of failure and that it would be just a short lived hobby. Not anymore. To see the jars on the counter full of yummy deliciousness and to know that I did it fills me with joy. <br />
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Later, when the weather turns colder I plan on canning some of the meat in my freezer, I will be using a tip I discovered that will help the process move along. <br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cook your roast <i><u>overnight</u></i> at 200 degrees. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Put it in before you go to bed and take it out when you get up, usually 8 to 10 hours of cooking. Alternatively you can put it in a crockpot to cook overnight if you don't want to keep your oven going so long.</div><div style="text-align: center;">(At this point I will can the meat with homemade broth or gravy.)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then let it cool for about an hour and put it into the refrigerator. </div><div style="text-align: center;">An hour or so before dinner, put it back into the oven with onions and potatoes and carrots at 350 degrees. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The roast will be so tender. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Also, during the winter months, it helps to warm the house. </div><div style="text-align: center;">During the summer, it keeps your house from heating up during the day.</div><br />
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Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7208986168060089190.post-22935585336559402542011-07-31T13:55:00.000-04:002011-07-31T13:55:26.074-04:00SNL Corn Syrup AD - too funny!Watch this to the end! <br />
<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5XM7_PBmJLs?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5XM7_PBmJLs?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></object>Christyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01129372114193004027noreply@blogger.com1