Cozy Kitchen by the Sea

Filipino Lumpia

2012-01-20T18:06:00.003-05:00

I am keeping my New Year's resolution this year by expanding our menu here at our Cozy Kitchen.
I have been making spring rolls for years, but wanted to try something new.
I found this amazing lumpia recipe at allrecipes.com. It is AMAZING !!! If you like to dip your lumpia, then I highly suggest Mae Ploy SWEET CHILLI SAUCE !!

Filipino Lumpia adapted from Allrecipes.com

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 pound ground pork

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup minced carrots

1/2 cup chopped green onions

1/2 cup thinly sliced green cabbage ( I used the shredded coleslaw mix in a bag )

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon soy sauce

30 lumpia wrappers/ or won ton wrappers

2 cups vegetable oil for frying

Place a wok or large skillet over high heat, and pour in 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Cook pork, stirring frequently, until no pink is showing. Remove pork from pan and set aside. Drain grease from pan, leaving a thin coating. Cook garlic and onion in the same pan for 2 minutes. Stir in the cooked pork, carrots, green onions, and cabbage. Season with pepper, salt, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Remove from heat, and set aside until cool enough to handle.

Place three heaping tablespoons of the filling diagonally near one corner of each wrapper, leaving a 1 1/2 inch space at both ends. Fold the side along the length of the filling over the filling, tuck in both ends, and roll neatly. Keep the roll tight as you assemble. Moisten the other side of the wrapper with water to seal the edge. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap to retain moisture.

Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat, add oil to 1/2 inch depth, and heat for 5 minutes. Slide 3 or 4 lumpia into the oil. Fry the rolls for 1 to 2 minutes, until all sides are golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.

Penzey's Baked Oatmeal

2011-07-26T14:58:00.007-04:00

Well, that was a long bloggie break !

I am a huge fan of baked oatmeal and have a FABULOUS Baked Oatmeal already posted here.

When I went to visit my parents on the west coast last summer, mom made me this and I must admit, I was very skeptical because I already make a fabulous baked oatmeal.... and then I tasted this.........amazing.

You.will.love.it !!!!

Easy ~ Breezy ~ and DID I MENTION........... AMAZING ??

adapted from Penzey's Baked Oatmeal

2 1/4 cups quick-cooking oats or 2 3/4 cups old fashioned oats, uncooked
2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 1/3 cups skim milk ( I used 2%)
4 egg whites, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

1 Preheat oven to 350.
2 Spray an 8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
3 In a large bowl combine oats, sugar, raisins, walnuts, cinnamon and salt. Mix well.
4 In a medium bowl, combine milk, egg whites, oil and vanilla and mix well.
5 Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well blended.
6 Pour into a baking dish. Bake at 350 for 55-60 minutes or until firm to the touch. Cool slightly. Serve topped with milk, yogurt, fruit or enjoy plain. Store leftover oatmeal tightly covered in the fridge.

Baked Raspberry Custard

2010-12-06T20:53:00.008-05:00

When I went home this summer, mom made this for me.
Oh yum. Comfort. Comfort. Comfort. And the kids loved it too !!

I made it this weekend, and I just have to wonder why on earth it took me 6 months to make it myself ! Perfect paired with a hot cup of tea, cocoa or coffee !!

Baked Raspberry Custard by Martha Stewart

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
3/4 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups raspberries (about 9 ounces)

1.Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In oven, melt butter in a 9-inch pie plate, about 6 minutes.
2.In a blender, combine milk, eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, flour, salt, and vanilla. Add melted butter and blend mixture until smooth, 30 seconds.
3.Distribute berries evenly in pie plate and pour batter over top. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar and bake until slightly puffed and just set in middle, 20 to 25 minutes. Heat broiler and broil until top is deep golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Serve warm.

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

2010-10-28T18:31:00.006-04:00

Happy Foodie Friday ! hosted by the wonderful DESIGNS BY GOLLUM !

{photo taken about 3 seconds after the kids came home from school !}

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies {adapted from Epicurious }

1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
2 eggs
1 3.4-ounce package vanilla instant pudding mix
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup old-fashioned oats
2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 12-ounce package semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Butter heavy large cookie sheets. Beat vegetable shortening and unsalted butter in large bowl until light. Gradually add white and brown sugars and beat mixture until fluffy. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla pudding mix, vanilla extract, baking soda, water, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg and salt and mix until well blended. Mix in oats, then flour. Stir in chocolate chips.

Drop cookie dough by large rounded spoonfuls (about 3 tablespoons each) onto prepared cookie sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake until cookies appear dry and tops are lightly cracked and soft when pressed, about 12 minutes (do not overbake). Cool cookies 5 minutes on cookie sheets. Transfer cookies to racks and cool. (Store cookies in airtight container.)

Outdoor Wednesday

2010-09-20T09:12:00.011-04:00

So we had yet another birthday weekend...mine... No cake recipe to share...because there was no cake. I asked for no gifts. All I wanted for my birthday was a day out on the boat so I could spend time with my family...
to hunt for shells and listen to the waves and enjoy the silence... and thank God for blessing me with another year...

Participating in

Blue Monday ! and Outdoor Wednesday !

Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake

2010-09-12T19:34:00.008-04:00

Happy Blue Monday ! Yes, as a matter of fact, this is my breakfast... We had another birthday weekend...My daughter adores Hello Kitty and I went to Michaels and could not find a Hello Kitty cake pan... so I had to come up with plan B. That's what I get for waiting until the last minute !

The good news is this pound cake is delicious ! And even better for 'breakfast' the next morning with a cup of hot coffee !! Maybe my Foodie Friday friends like coconut !

COCONUT CREAM CHEESE POUND CAKE {Southern Living Cookbook}

1/2 cup butter or 1/2 cup margarine, softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
3 cups sugar
6 eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 (6 ounce) packages frozen coconut, thawed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon coconut extract

1 Cream the butter, shortening, and cream cheese together in a bowl.

2 Gradually add sugar, beating well at medium speed.

3 Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.

4 In another bowl, combine flour, soda, and salt.

5 Add to creamed mixture, stirring just until blended.

6 Stir in coconut and remaining ingredients.

7 Pour batter into a greased and floured 10-inch tube pan.

8 Bake in a 325° oven for 1 1/2 hours or until a picks tests clean.

9 Cool in pan for 10-15 minutes.

10 Turn out of pan and cool completely on a wire rack

The Most Requested Pie at the Cozy Kitchen

2010-09-06T08:12:00.007-04:00

It's hard to believe summer is coming to a close...but we took advantage of beautiful weather and took the boat out... I couldn't help but think of Smiling Sally hosting Blue Monday and A Southern Daydreamer hosting Outdoor Wednesday when we passed this blue boat !

The end of summer means a lot of birthdays in our house...and it all starts with this.

The most requested pie in our Cozy Kitchen...and I just have to share it with all my Foodie Friday friends !{hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum!}

Lucious Caramel Banana Pie {The Southern Living Cookbook}

14 oz Sweetened condensed milk

2- 3 Bananas

1-(9-inch) graham cracker crust

1 c Whipping cream

1/4 c Powdered sugar; sifted

1 - 2 English toffee-flavored candy (I use Heath bars), chopped

Pour sweetened condensed milk into an 8-inch pieplate. Cover pieplate with aluminum foil. Pour about 1/4-inch hot water in a larger shallow pan. Place covered pieplate in pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 1 hour and 20 minutes or until condensed milk is thick and caramel colored (add hot water to pan as needed).

Remove foil when done, and set aside. Cut bananas crosswise into 1/8-inch slices, and place on crust. Spread caramelized milk over bananas.

Cool for at least 30 minutes. Beat whipping cream until foamy; gradually add powdered sugar, beating until soft peaks form.

Spread over caramel layer.

Sprinkle with crumbled candy.

Chill at least 3 hours or overnight before . Enjoy !

Outdoor Wednesday

2010-08-23T08:29:00.009-04:00

Happy Blue Monday ! I am obsessed with watching my hummingbirds.... I love that I was able to capture this shot against a cloudless blue sky ...

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the wonderful A Southern Daydreamer !

Do you see the hummingbird way up in this tree ??? It's sitting on the branch to the right...

Just.Make.This.

2010-08-09T00:19:00.004-04:00

This is a my little ol' hummingbird getting ready to feed ! Happy Blue Monday ! {hosted by the wonderful Smiling Sally}

I could watch these guys all day long.... here they are, playing tag !

Oh my goodness.... this is soooooooooo good. {Participating in Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !}

Especially when you need a fabulous side dish to go with enchiladas, rice & beans.......

Barefoot Contessa's Guacamole Salad is ...well perfect! Spicy, crunchy, delicious...

It's great on it's own, or if you are lucky enough to have leftovers, then I put this amazing salad inside a flour tortilla and have a veggie burrito ................. Y U M !

{note: the only variation I made was that I added cilantro}

Guacamole Salad by Barefoot Contessa

1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and 1/2-inch diced
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup small diced red onion
2 tablespoons minced jalapeno peppers, seeded (2 peppers)
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lime zest
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (2 limes)
1/4 cup good olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
2 ripe Hass avocados, seeded, peeled, and 1/2-inch diced

Place the tomatoes, yellow pepper, black beans, red onion, jalapeno peppers, and lime zest in a large bowl. Whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic, and cayenne pepper and pour over the vegetables. Toss well.

Just before you're ready to serve the salad, fold the avocados into the salad. Check the seasoning and serve at room temperature.

Jalapeno Popper Spread

2010-08-03T07:34:00.012-04:00

I love to feed hummingbirds...we have at least 5 that float around our yard. This little guy was not afraid of the big green monster lurking...

{participating in Outdoor Wednesday hosted by A Southern Daydreamer !}

This Jalapeno Popper Spread was a hit. If you like it hot, this is for you... oh, and yes...it tasted exactly like a jalapeno popper !! Participating in Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !

JALAPENO POPPER SPREAD {adapted from allrecipes.com }

2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayonnaise
1 small can jalapeno peppers, chopped

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

1. Using hand mixer, stir together cream cheese and mayonnaise in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in jalapeno peppers. Pour in bake safe dish ( I used a pie plate ). Spread 1 c. parm cheese on top and then sprinkle with panko all over.

2. Bake at 375 for 20 min.

I served mine with pita chips... {tortilla chips are great of course too !}

S U M M E R

2010-07-28T08:06:00.008-04:00

I have been out of the kitchen most of the summer...enjoying time with family...

We have friends coming for dinner this weekend, so I'm back in the kitchen this week.
I'm planning on a Mexican Menu... Stay tuned for recipes !

Happy Outdoor Wednesday hosted by A Southern Daydreamer !

Golden Macaroni & Cheese

2010-07-06T11:23:00.011-04:00

We were blessed with beautiful weather for the 4th of July... We have family visiting from out of town, so I hosted the 4th.

I had a very simple menu... hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled chicken in a garlic/balsamic marinade...fresh tomatoes... and watermelon & cantaloupe. The real hit, even with adults was this homemade macaroni & cheese. {Happy outdoor wednesday ! } Also participating in Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !

Golden Macaroni & Cheese {Southern Living}

1 (8-ounce) package elbow macaroni (about 2 cups uncooked macaroni)
2 cups milk
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon onion salt
2 (10-ounce) blocks sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 4 1/2 cups) and divided*
1 cup soft breadcrumbs (4 slices, crusts removed)
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain well. Set aside.

Place milk, flour, and onion salt in a quart jar; cover tightly, and shake vigorously 1 minute.

Stir together flour mixture, 3 1/2 cups cheese, and macaroni.

Pour macaroni mixture into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish or 2 (11-inch) oval baking dishes. Sprinkle evenly with breadcrumbs and remaining 1 cup cheese; drizzle evenly with melted butter.

Bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until golden brown.

*20 ounces loaf pasteurized prepared cheese product, shredded or cut into small cubes, may be substituted. Omit breadcrumbs if using prepared cheese product.

Note: For testing purposes only, we used Kraft Cracker Barrel Sharp Cheddar Cheese. ( I used this cheese also, and it was just perfect!)

Yum. Oh yum !!

Pölka dot Riesling

2010-07-02T21:45:00.007-04:00

Hot, humid, summer nights require something cold to drink !
I bought this on sale for $9.00 at my local grocer today.
Oh my goodness...this is just what I need...
Polka Dot balances floral aromas with ripe fruit flavors of pear, nectarine and apricot. Delicious !!

Clone of the Cinnabon ?

2010-05-17T08:24:00.013-04:00

I stumbled across this amazing 'CLONE OF THE CINNABON' recipe on allrecipes.com and just had to try it.
Clone? I think not.
Tastes like the real deal to me !

CLONE OF THE CINNABON {allrecipes.com}

1 cup warm milk (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
2 eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup margarine, melted
4 1/2 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup white sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons bread machine yeast

1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/3 cup butter, softened

1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt

1.Place ingredients in the pan of the bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Select dough cycle; press Start.

(note: just for fun, the next time I make these, I'm going to try the ready made frozen dough from the grocery and see if they are just as good. I'll let you all know!)

2.After the dough has doubled in size turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, cover and let rest for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.

3.Roll dough into a 16x21 inch rectangle. Spread dough with 1/3 cup butter and sprinkle evenly with sugar/cinnamon mixture. Roll up dough and cut into 12 rolls. Place rolls in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

4.Bake rolls in preheated oven until golden brown, about 15 minutes. While rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract and salt. Spread frosting on warm rolls before serving.

Oh Mamma Mia ! I would definitely recommend making these.... yum!

Warning:

I had quite the sad teenagers milling about when they realized they gobbled them all up and I didn't have 'more' hanging around...

{participating in DIY DAY hosted by A Soft Place to Land & Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !}

Strawberry Salad

2010-05-11T08:21:00.013-04:00

Happy Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !

I love buying my fruit and veggies at our local farmers market...

I love supporting the local farmers...I scooped up fresh strawberries and went home and made my favorite strawberry salad.

{Participating in Outdoor Wednesday over at A Southern Daydreamer ! }

I. LOVE. THIS. SALAD. It's refreshing. Perfect for hot summer nights...

{Participating in DIY day over at a soft place to land. }

Strawberry Salad

1 head of romaine, chopped or baby spinach

red onions to taste

strawberries

Dressing:

1/2 C. Mayo

2 TBS. milk

2 TBS. rice vinegar

1 or 2 TBS. poppy seeds

1/2 C. sugar

Chinatown Chicken Salad

2010-04-29T19:32:00.029-04:00

{Quite possibly my favorite beach home around here... I took this photo because I adore this color...it makes me happy just looking at it.}

I love spring & summer foods !

After a long winter of soups & pasta, I really look forward to summer salads !

I made one of my favorite summertime salads last night....

Chinatown Chicken Salad { from California Sizzles Cookbook }

1/2 pkg. wonton wrappers

vegetable oil

1 med. head lettuce, shredded ( I use the pre-packaged cabbage/carrot mix )

extra shredded carrots

shredded cooked chicken

1 C. roasted peanuts

3 T. sesame seeds (optional)

2 T. chopped cilantro or to taste

Dressing:

1 t. dry mustard

1/2 tsp. powdered ginger

2 tsp. soy sauce

2 T. sesame oil

1/3 C. veg. oil

1/3 C. rice vinegar

1. Slice wontons into strips and fry in veg . oil until lightly browned. Drain and set aside.

2. Combine lettuce or cabbage mix, chicken, peanuts, sesame seeds and cilantro. Toss with dressing.

3. Add fried wontons before serving.

It's Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !

Oh, and in case you are wondering, I could probably eat this entire bowl myself in one sitting, it is THAT GOOD !

Penne with Vodka Tomato Cream Sauce

2010-04-17T10:41:00.016-04:00

In case you didn't know... I LOVE PASTA !!!!!!

And in case you were wondering, this is my FAVORITE SAUCE !!!!!!!!!! I've been making this for 18 years.

Penne with vodka tomato cream sauce {bon appetit}

1 tbsp. butter

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 sm. onion, chopped

1 (28 oz.) can Italian plum tomatoes, drained, seeded, chopped

1 c. whipping cream

1/4 c. vodka

1/4 tsp. dried crushed red pepper

1 lb. penne pasta (any tubular pasta)

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Minced fresh chives

Melt butter with oil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and saute until translucent, about 8 minutes.

Add tomatoes and cook until almost no liquid remains in pan, stirring frequently, about 25 minutes.

Add cream, vodka and red pepper and boil until thickened to sauce consistency, about 2 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Sauce can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate).

Cook pasta in large pot of boiling water until just tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain well. Transfer to a large bowl. Bring sauce to simmer. Pour over pasta and toss well. Sprinkle with Parmesan and chives and serve. 6 servings.

{It's BLUE MONDAY hosted by the wonderful Smiling Sally !
Also participating in DIY DAY over at A Soft Place to Land. and Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the fantastic A Southern Daydreamer ! }

Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

2010-04-05T09:15:00.005-04:00

"IT'S A KEEPER!".... that's what my boys said when they took a bite.

I love 'make ahead' recipes for busy, Holiday weekends...

Sausage Breakfast Casserole
{ from Allrecipes.com}

1 pound ground pork sausage
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 eggs, beaten
2 cups milk
6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes
8 ounces mild Cheddar cheese, shredded

1.Crumble sausage into a medium skillet. Cook over medium heat until evenly brown; drain.

2.In a medium bowl, mix together mustard powder, salt, eggs and milk. Add the sausage, bread cubes, and cheese, and stir to coat evenly. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover, and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight.

3.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

4.Cover, and bake 45 to 60 minutes. Uncover, and reduce temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until set.

Oh, and Happy Blue Monday ! Hosted by the wonderful Smiling Sally !

DC

2010-03-24T08:21:00.006-04:00

"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing" Edmund Burke

So, we kicked off our flip flops, put on city shoes, and drove, and drove, and drove some more...
to stand outside and shake our fists...

If ye love wealth greater than liberty, the tranquility of servitude
greater than the animating contest for freedom, go home from us
in peace. We seek not your counsel, nor your arms. Crouch down
and lick the hand that feeds you; May your chains set lightly upon
you, and may posterity forget that ye were our countrymen.
—Samuel Adams
{This photo and the one above it is especially for Blue Monday hosted by the wonderful Smiling Sally !}

{also participating in Outdoor Wednesday over at A Southern Daydreamer }

Pasta Bolognese

2010-03-18T08:58:00.010-04:00

Oh Mamma Mia! This is one of my favorite sauces when I want something heavier than a marinara sauce ! As this was simmering on the stove last night, I couldn't believe I let a few months slip by without making this... shame on me !!!!!!!!!!!!

Pasta Bolognese {by Giada De Laurentiis }

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
2 garlic cloves, peeled and coarsely chopped
1 celery stalk, coarsely chopped
1 carrot, coarsely chopped
1 pound ground chuck beef
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup flat-leaf Italian parsley, chiffonade
8 fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano ( I use Parmesan Reggiano )

In a 6 quart pot, add extra-virgin olive oil. When almost smoking, add the onion and garlic and saute over medium heat until the onions become very soft, about 8 minutes. Add the celery and carrot and saute for 5 minutes. Raise heat to high and add the ground beef. Saute, stirring frequently and breaking up any large lumps and cook until meat is no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Add the tomatoes, parsley and basil and cook over medium low heat until the sauce thickens, about 1/2 hour. Finish bolognese with Pecorino Romano. Check for seasoning.

Serve hot.

{participating in DIY Day over at a soft place to land, and Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !}

Crustless Mini Quiches

2010-03-09T08:34:00.009-05:00

Oh warm, sunny days, how I have missed you ! {Participating in Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !

Watery Wednesday! & Outdoor Wednesday}

I made these over the weekend. A huge hit. HUGE. They will be included in our Easter buffet!
This is a wonderful base recipe. I'm looking forward to using spinach and other ing to make it my own.

Crustless Mini Quiches {recipe from Barb James in American Profile}

Cooking spray
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
½ cup half-and-half
½ cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
2 eggs
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon seasoned salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup diced cooked ham, cooked bacon or shrimp ( I used bacon )
¼ cup diced mushrooms
¼ cup finely chopped onion

1. Preheat oven to 350F. Coat 12 standard-size muffin cups with cooking spray.
2. Combine cheese, half-and-half, mayonnaise, eggs, flour, salt and pepper in a blender. Process until well blended.
3. Fill each cup with about 1 1/2 tablespoons ham and 1 teaspoon each mushrooms and onion. Pour equal amounts of egg mixture over each. Cups will be about half full. Bake 22 minutes, or until quiches are lightly golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Serves 6.

The quiches will be puffy when removed from oven, but deflate rapidly.

P.s.

It's DIY DAY over at a soft place to land.

Let's go for a walk

2010-03-03T07:02:00.011-05:00

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by A Southern Daydreamer !

Also participating in Watery Wednesday.

San Clemente Potato Casserole

2010-03-02T06:47:00.014-05:00

{My crochet stitches are coming along...very slowly !!}

When I lived in California, a very good friend of mine gave me this recipe.
Yesterday I was looking for a side dish to go with a turkey breast I was making for dinner... I wanted something I could make in the morning and heat up later since I had a busy day.

Comforting and delicious !

San Clemente Potato Casserole

6 white rose potatoes ( I used red potatoes )- boil til done
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 pint sour cream
1/2 stick melted butter
1/2 C. green onions
1 C. cheddar cheese, grated

Gently peel potato skin away from potatoes.
Shred boiled potatoes in large bowl.
Add in remaining ingredients and mix well.

Transfer to 9 x 13 casserole dish.
Top with more cheese.

Bake at 325 for 45 min.

Participating in DIY Day over at a soft place to land and Foodie Friday hosted by the wonderful Designs by Gollum !

Banana Pudding

2010-02-24T16:20:00.007-05:00

My boys grinned from ear to ear when they came home from school and saw what their little sister and mommy had been up to...
A huge favorite in our home....thank you Miss Paula Deen !!

Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding by Paula Deen

2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
6 to 8 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping thawed, or equal amount sweetened whipped cream

Line the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch dish with 1 bag of cookies and layer bananas on top.

In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer.
Using another bowl, combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together and mix until smooth. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.

Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until well blended.

Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas and cover with the remaining cookies.

Refrigerate until ready to serve. Layers and layers of deliciousness !

It's Foodie Friday over at designs by Golllum !

Double Chocolate Cookies

2010-02-16T09:27:00.017-05:00

Our church had a bake sale for Haiti and I volunteered to bake.

I love these double chocolate cookies.

They taste like brownies.

Easy. Economical. and taste DIVINE !

DOUBLE-CHOCOLATE COOKIES {Southern Living 20th anniversary Annual recipes cookbook}

1 (18.25 oz.) Package Betty Crocker Devils Food Cake mix WITH PUDDING! (88 cents at Walmart!)

1/2 C. vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 C. (6 oz ) chocolate chips

1. Combine first 3 ing. and beat at medium speed with mixer until blended.

Stir in chocolate chips.

2. Drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.

3. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Cool on cookie sheets 5 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

It's DIY day over at A soft place to land & Foodie Friday over at designs by Gollum !

It's snowing at the beach...

2010-02-13T12:15:00.004-05:00

All time favorite at the Cozy Kitchen

2010-02-10T08:01:00.012-05:00

My family continually says this is their all time favorite dish.

If you like blue cheese, this is for YOU!

Simple. Fabulous. {My favorite combo !}

Roquefort Chicken (from 6 ing. or Less cookbook)

boneless chicken breasts (4-6)

salt & pepper

1/4 C. butter

4 oz. roquefort or blue cheese {I use blue cheese}

1 garlic clove, sliced {I use 2-3, because I love garlic!}

1 C. sour cream

Salt & pepper chicken if you like.

Heat butter in skillet. Lightly brown chicken, remove.

In same skillet, add blue cheese, garlic and sour cream.

Heat, but do not boil.

Place chicken in 9 x 13 baking dish, and pour sauce over top.

Bake at 350 for 45 min, or until tender.

I love to serve this with rice. We even drizzle the sauce over our rice.

It's a perfect combo with the fabulous sauce !!!

Participating in Foodie Friday over at Designs by Gollum !

Seven Layer Taco Dip

2010-02-05T09:42:00.011-05:00

This. is. AMAZING!
I like to serve it with "Tostitos Scoops" .
When I want more of a 'meal', I warm flour tortillas, and fill it with this.
YUM !
Everyone LOVES this !
I love that you can make this ahead...
and it's awesome the next day too !

Seven Layer Taco Dip { adapted from allrecipes }

1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
1 (16 ounce) jar salsa
1 large tomato, chopped
**sliced jalapeno peppers in jar (as many as you like * my own addition )
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 bunch chopped green onions
1 small head iceberg lettuce, shredded
1 (6 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1.In a medium bowl, blend the taco seasoning mix and refried beans. Spread the mixture onto a large serving platter.
2.Mix the sour cream and cream cheese in a medium bowl. Spread over the refried beans.
3.Top the layers with salsa. Place a layer of tomato, green bell pepper, green onions, jalapenos, and lettuce over the salsa, and top with Cheddar cheese. Garnish with black olives.

Oh, and it's Foodie Friday over at Designs by Gollum

l o v e

2010-02-03T13:40:00.006-05:00

great grandchildren: a grandchild of one's son or daughter

{ my nephews & brother in law }

3 sisters laid to rest their mom & dad. my grandparents...

together... as they wished...

Every single grandchild came. 16... From coast to coast, we came together.

Some of us had not seen each other in 30 years.

Time stood still.

Tears.

Lots of tears.

Tears of gratitude.

Tears of love.

love: a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person

Bob & Margaret

3 daughters

16 grandchildren

25 great grandchildren

married 69 years.

died 72 days apart.

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by a southern daydreamer

Baked Oatmeal & 100% Comfort

2010-01-25T10:14:00.003-05:00

I can't tell you how many times I've made this in the past 2 months.....

If you like oatmeal, this is for you.

Amazing.

Comforting.

Good for you.

{My kids love, love, love it... and beg for more... }

Baked Oatmeal (adapted from My Kitchen Cafe)

6 cups oatmeal ( I use Quaker Oats Old Fashioned but you can use quick )

2 cups brown sugar
1 cup oil
2 cups milk
4 beaten eggs

1 tsp. vanilla
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients together and pour into a greased 9X13-inch baking pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Pizzelles

2010-01-21T10:37:00.010-05:00

This is one of my favorite recipes.

For me, perfect paired with a cup of hot tea.

I can snack on these all day long.

The recipe makes a ton, and they keep at least 2 weeks !

You just need a Pizzelle Baker !

Pizzelles

6 eggs, whole

2 sticks butter- melted to room temp.

1 1/2 C. sugar

2 1/2 C. flour

4 tsp. baking powder

2 TBS. vanilla or 1 whole small bottle of Anise. ( I prefer the vanilla! I've never tried the Anise version, so maybe you should just add 2 TBS of Anise instead of the whole SMALL bottle.)

In large bowl, beat eggs slightly. Add melted butter. Add sugar & vanilla.

Beat well.

Slowly add flour & baking powder.

Make Pizzelles in your pizzelle

baker !

Sprinkle with powdered sugar on each one when done !

Sit back and enjoy !!

P.s.

It's DIY Day over at a soft place to land, and Foodie Friday hosted by designs by gollum !

72 days

2010-01-19T08:32:00.022-05:00

72 days.

That's how long Grandpa had to wait
to dance again with "Nanny" again.

Nov 5, 2009 to January 16, 2010 was only 72 days.
After 69 years of marriage,

Bob was the last word Nanny said.

Margaret was the last word Grandpa said.

I can't think of anything more beautiful.

Bob and Margaret.

Together & dancing forever.
and ever.
and ever.

John 14:3
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

Raisin Bran Muffins

2010-01-06T11:12:00.006-05:00

I've been busy cooking, baking and crocheting !

These Raisin Bran Muffins are an easy, portable morning breakfast.
These stay dense, not big and fluffy. It's like eating a bowl of raisin bran 'on the go'.

Raisin Bran Muffins

2 1/2 C. Raisin Bran
1 1/4 C. milk

1 1/4 C. flour

1 T. baking powder

1/2 t. salt

1/2 C. sugar

1 egg

1/4 C. veg. oil

SOAK RAISIN BRAN & milk for 10 minutes

add remaining ing.

Bake at 400 for 18-20 min.

2009-12-16T06:44:00.010-05:00

fare⋅well: goodbye; may you fare well: Farewell, and may we meet again in happier times.

em⋅brace: to take or clasp in the arms; press to the bosom; hug.

one year: a period of 365 or 366 days, in the Gregorian calendar, divided into 12 calendar months, now reckoned as beginning Jan. 1 and ending Dec. 31

re·union: a reuniting of persons after separation

{Reflecting upon all the holidays we have missed being together...just too many to count}

It's Outdoor Wednesday over at a southern daydreamer.

Corn and Herb-Bread Sausage Stuffing

2009-12-08T08:19:00.004-05:00

No Fail and simply Fabulous!

Our favorite stuffing...

Corn and Herb-Bread Sausage Stuffing

1 pound bulk pork sausage ( I use Jimmy Dean Sage )

2 cups chopped celery

2 cups chopped onion

5 cups corn bread stuffing mix (about one 12-ounce package)

5 cups herbed-bread stuffing mix

1 teaspoon dried poultry seasoning, crumbled

1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage

1/2 teaspoon pepper

3 cups canned low-salt chicken broth

Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter 13x9x2 glass baking dish. Sauté first 3 ingredients in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat until sausage is brown and vegetables are tender, breaking up sausage with fork, about 15 minutes. Drain off fat. Transfer sausage mixture to large bowl. Add both stuffing mixes, poultry seasoning, sage and pepper and toss until well blended. Gradually mix in broth.

Transfer stuffing to prepared dish. Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 40 minutes. Uncover and bake until slightly crusty on top, about 5 minutes longer.

Participating in Foodie Friday hosted by designs by gollum & DIY DAY over at a soft place to land. !

Cranberry Fruit Conserve

2009-12-01T06:52:00.007-05:00

This is mine. All mine.
Everyone in my family adores Oceanspray Jellied Cranberry Sauce and they aren't about to convert. I like it too, but one year I watched Ina Garten make this on her show, and gave it a whirl. I'm so glad I did. It' simply amazing. Yum! {Did I mention it was mine ?}
By the way, our Greenberg Smoked Turkey was out of this world, once again. It makes the most amazing leftovers...smoked turkey sandwiches.....oh my...

Cranberry Fruit Conserve {Barefoot Contessa Parties cookbook)

1 (12-ounce) bag of fresh cranberries, cleaned

1 3/4 cups sugar

1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and chopped

1 orange, zest grated and juiced

1 lemon, zest grated and juiced

3/4 cup raisins (I did NOT add)

3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (I used pecans!)

Cook the cranberries, sugar, and 1 cup of water in a saucepan over low heat for about 5 minutes, or until the skins pop open. Add the apple, zests, and juices and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove from the heat and add the raisins and nuts. Let cool, and serve chilled

P.s.
It's Foodie Friday & DIY day over at A soft Place to Land.

2009-11-30T09:24:00.008-05:00

I'm zipping around town, getting ready for Christmas.

Decorating has begun at the Cozy Kitchen. I bought the identical nativity for my grandmother a few years ago, and I remember how much she loved hers ! This was the first decoration I put out this year.

Happy Blue Monday!

Spinach - Mushroom Salad

2009-11-24T07:58:00.009-05:00

This is one of our very favorite salads. I've been making this for 17 years. This has been requested as our salad on Thanksgiving.
Spinach-Mushroom Salad {The Southern Living Cookbook}

1 pound fresh spinach ( I like to use baby spinach )
1/4 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
3 hard cooked eggs,chopped
1 bunch green onions, chopped

1/2 C. vegetable oil
3 Tbs. vinegar ( I use cider vinegar )
1/3 C. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. dry mustard
dash of pepper
8 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled

Wash spinach and pat dry.
Tear into bite size pieces.
Combine spinach, mushrooms, eggs and green onions in large bowl.

Combine oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, dry mustard and pepper in a jar. Cover and shake vigorously.

Top spinach with dressing just before serving. Sprinkle with bacon on top.

P.s. It's DIY Day over at A soft place to land.

Salsa All' Amatriciana by Giada

2009-11-17T08:04:00.023-05:00

When my kids walk in from schooland smell this simmering, they say the same thing every time !

"OOhh ! Oohh ! Is that the sauce with the bacon ?" Making this sauce makes me happy because I always know how they will react. They love it !
The recipe is from one of my favorite cookbooks, Everyday Italian by Giada de Laurentiis.
This is super easy, and fabulous. comfort. comfort. comfort.

A family favorite of ours !!

{I originally posted this last year, but forgot to take a photo.}

Salsa All' Amatriciana { Giada de Laurentiis }

2 tablespoons olive oil
6 ounces pancetta, diced ( I use 6-8 slices of bacon )
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano ( I use freshly grated Parm. Reggiano )

1 lb. favorite pasta

For the sauce:

In a large heavy skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the pancetta or bacon and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pancetta/bacon and reserve.

Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add the tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and the cooked pancetta/bacon.

Simmer, uncovered, over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens, about 15 minutes. Stir in the cheese and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve over your favorite pasta.

It's Foodie Friday

over at Designs by Gollum!

{Also participating in DIY Day over at A soft Place to Land & the krazy kitchen & Tuesdays at the Table.}

2009-11-16T06:53:00.013-05:00

Here's a peek around my cozy town.

The color of this home is stunning....

And the color of this house reminded me of the book

I just finished...

Is that not one of the most beautiful colors ever ?

It's my 'giveaway'.

If you would like to read this book, please leave a comment.

Random.org will pick winners Wednesday Night (11-18), and I will announce them Thursday.

*UPDATE* and the winner is comment #12 (Jboo) !

Happy Blue Monday! Thanks for hosting Smiling Sally !

Also participating in Watery Wednesday & Waterside Wednesday !

Sausage & Potato Casserole

2009-11-08T23:17:00.010-05:00

I mentioned this recipe last year on this post. I've made it every fall for 15 years!
Eating this feels like a great big HUG... TOTAL COMFORT...which I really need right now.
{A heartfelt Thank YOU to everyone who left sweet comments for me regarding my Nanny. I didn't expect any comments....it was just a private note to my Nanny.... but you lifted my spirits ...truly. Thank you...all of you. }

If you are lucky, you'll have just enough leftovers for a yummy lunch. It's amazing the next day!
Click for recipe
It's Foodie Friday over at Designs by Gollum.

Nanny

2009-11-06T10:32:00.034-05:00

Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
I pray the Lord my soul to take.

Dear Nanny,

I know you must have taught mom that prayer because she taught me. I've said it every day of my life and I still do.

I know you are with Jesus now and so I know you see my tears. When I woke up this morning, my heart was heavy and I was cold.

And when I opened your great granddaughters room to wake her, I could not believe the white light streaming through the window. It was so bright that the entire window reflected beside her bed.

I felt the warmth of the sun on my cheeks and couldn't help but think that this is your first morning in heaven ! I felt your love surround me instantly. I had to get my camera because I never want to forget what that felt like. The memories...oh the memories. That is what the tears are for.

Thank YOU for the memories Nanny.

The story of how you met Grandpa at a dance...

how you went to a dance with someone else! and met Grandpa and it was love at first sight ... followed by 69 years of wedded bliss!!

when I think of you, I see you & Grandpa dancing. Always.

I love how you and Grandpa made me believe that true love does exist. Neither of you wanted to be without the other, ever.

I loved your house in Idaho. I loved that you collected those tiny white avon lipstick samples.

Did you know I tried on every shade ? I think you had a zillion.

I loved every single Lanz Nightgown you sent me for Christmas !

I loved that you listened to mystery theatre radio. One summer I saved up enough babysitting money to get my own radio, and I would listen to the mystery theatre really late at night when I was supposed to be sleeping and knew you were listening to the same episode !

I love blue cheese dressing because of you ! Remember you would take me to Smitty's for lunch ? You ordered a side salad with blue cheese (on the side!) every time !

Sees Candy- Oh how you loved See's Candy ! I loved going to the See's Candy Store with you. Peanut brittle was your favorite. And mine too !

Mints....you always had mints in your purse ! I've had more Altoids this last month than ever in my life... I've thought about you a lot...

Oh Nanny...I'm so glad I was able to call you on your birthday (92) and hear your voice. I know you remember me now, for God has restored your memory.

But mostly Nanny, mostly I am thankful for your gift of Faith. Thank you for teaching Mom about God and of faith. You taught her, Mom taught me, and I'm teaching my children. I truly would be lost without it.

So today I'm flooded with memories that I will carry in my heart forever. Thank you for your love.

And Grandpa will join you one perfect day and then you can dance in his arms..forever. and ever.

John 14:1-4
Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.

I love you Nanny. Always. Forever. and ever. November 5, 2009

Singing in the Rain

2009-11-04T08:21:00.016-05:00

This is my Pink Saturday Post hosted by Beverly at how sweet the sound.

glorious: delightful; wonderful; completely enjoyable

rain: rainfall, rainstorm, or shower

chase: to follow in pursuit

dance:to leap, skip

It's Outdoor Wednesday over at A Southern Daydreamer & Wordful Wednesday !

Biscuits & Gravy

2009-11-03T06:09:00.022-05:00

I'm a California girl who married a cowboy.
(Anyone born in the midwest is a cowboy to me!) So naturally, my husband was horrified when I had no idea what biscuits & gravy was. I remember the first time he made them for me. I was more scared that he didn't use measuring cups than I was trying it. Although I liked it, I'm a purist in the kitchen and that means I like to "measure" ! I knew I had quite a task ahead of me...to find the best biscuits & gravy recipe out there. This is the recipe we use now, and although I hate to admit it, this recipe is sooooo good and comforting and perfect for cold winter weekend mornings ! A definite 'boys' breakfast !

Sausage Gravy {adapted from Southern Living, March, 2003}

16 ounces pork sausage ( I use Jimmy Dean "Sage")
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 2/3 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper

Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring until it crumbles and is no longer pink. Drain fat from skillet.

Add flour, milk, salt and pepper to large bowl. Whisk until well blended.. Add milk mixture to skillet with sausage and simmer until thickened, takes about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve over biscuits. I use the frozen Pillsbury Grands biscuits in Buttermilk or Southern Style.

Yield: Makes 4 cups

Note: This is the recipe doubled so I can use the whole pound of sausage.

If you don't need to feed six or more, then cut the recipe in half.

It's DIY Day over at a soft place to land. & Tuesdays at the Table & Foodie Friday !

2009-11-02T08:17:00.010-05:00

November is here. That means it's time to break out our Coco-motion machine by Mr. Coffee !

We are big cocoa drinkers, here at the Cozy Kitchen!

I bought this 6 years ago on sale at Walmart for $19.99. I cannot tell you enough how much we LOVE this machine. You can find it also at amazon.com.

Clearly, the best twenty bucks I have ever spent !

I love that all I have to do is add milk & cocoa and walk away !

There are so many reasons to love this little machine...

the kids love to watch the cocoa whirl around

while they are playing outside in the snow, Cocomotion is busy at work, just waiting for them to return!
it turns off automatically
serving cocoa before school on a snowy day is a breeze !
just press the button again, and it warms the cocoa right back up
it makes your cocoa the PERFECT temperature ! No guessing ! {If it's too hot for my daughter, I just add a splash of cold milk to her mug}
makes an awesome Holiday gift for a new family ! They will use it for years !

I feel like it's the 'simple things' that we remember so fondly.
Like sipping cocoa while watching the first snowfall...

Or maybe the time mom delivered hot cocoa to them out on the front porch because they were frozen cold, but didn't want to come inside just yet...

{We used to live where it snowed... my boys miss those winters !}

I don't want my children to remember the Legos I bought them or the newest Wii game.

I want them to remember cozy family time.

Because that is something they can re-create with their own families one day.
It doesn't cost a lot, and there is nothing like a steamy cup of cocoa to make you feel cozy, and safe and secure...and those feelings are priceless.

This cup is for Smiling Sally. Thanks for hosting Blue Monday !

Spinach and Bacon Quiche

2009-10-29T08:41:00.007-04:00

I've been a wee bit under the weather this week, so I've resorted to my favorite 'easy' meals. Breakfast for dinner. Unexpected and the kids loved it. I served this quiche with sliced fresh naval oranges on the side.

Spinach & Bacon Quiche {Paula Deen & Friends cookbook page 155}

6 large eggs, beaten

1 1/2 cups heavy cream or milk ( I used milk )

Salt and pepper
2 cups chopped fresh baby spinach, packed

1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

1 (9-inch) refrigerated pie crust, fitted to a 9-inch glass pie plate

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Combine the eggs, cream, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Use mixer to blend. Layer the spinach, bacon, and cheese in the bottom of the pie crust, then pour the egg mixture on top. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the egg mixture is set. Cut into 8 wedges.

DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE ?

2009-10-28T13:48:00.016-04:00

{click on top photo to enlarge} photo taken at 7:01pm

I took a walk with my daughter after dinner.
The sun began to set ... and the most glorious rays were shining down.
I forgot my camera.
We ran home as fast as we could.
By the time I grabbed my camera, I was too late to catch the rays.
I took the picture anyways.
I finally downloaded them, thinking they were not going to turn out, and I freaked out at what I saw.
Do you see the "face" ? I totally did NOT see that face when I took the photo.

I put arrows where I see eyes, and then a bridge of the nose. And a mouth, and chin...
I don't feel like it's a "happy" face either !
What do you see ?
{This photo taken at 7:02pm}

It's Outdoor Wednesday over at http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

Fairy Wands

2009-10-27T06:01:00.012-04:00

Last year I made Magic Wands which were a huge success.

This year, I wanted to make them for little hands, and so the idea of Fairy Wands was born. I love that these are bite size !

My daughter loved making these with me. They taste just like Mother's Circus Animal Cookies.

These make great treats for special friends. I found the cutest set of little boxes at Michael's by Martha Stewart in the Halloween section. It's all on sale now. The pretzels fit perfectly inside these boxes !

Fairy Wands by Queen B

1 Bag mini pretzel sticks
1 lb. Almond Bark ( vanilla flavored coating )
Nonpareils or other fun sprinkles

Melt the Almond Bark in a double boiler or just use sauce pan, but keep on low heat til melted.
Dip pretzel in melted almond bark.
Roll in sprinkles.
Cool on parchment lined cookie sheet til dry.

It's DIY Day over at a soft place to land ! Happy Halloween !
{Participating in THE KRAZY KITCHEN, Tuesday's at the table, & DIY fall festival show off & Todays Creative Blog & FOODIE FRIDAY! & Show & Tell Friday

Sausage Swirls

2009-10-26T08:08:00.015-04:00

Fall has arrived here at the Cozy Kitchen. The leaves are falling. I love how these last few leaves are holding this sweet nest in place.

It's Blue Monday over at Smiling Sally's!

I have learned that the simplest pleasures bring the greatest joy. I've learned that it's nearly impossible for anyone to wake up in a bad mood on Sunday morning when they lazily wake up to the smell of Miss Paula Deen's sausage swirls wafting into their bedroom. Every time I passed one of my children in the house yesterday, I heard..."I love you mom".
These itty bitty bites make my family swoon.

{ this was one of two platters that I served. Both platters were gone in six minutes. I need to double this the next time! }

Mr. B even mentioned them several hours later as I was folding laundry.
I just smiled and my heart felt soooooo happy. I'm ready for fall, and cozy meals in the upcoming months. I like to serve these Christmas Eve morning, since they are so easy. You can even prepare them the night before, and pop them in the oven the next morning.

Sausage Swirls by Paula Deen
Two 8 oz cans refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1 pound ground sausage ( I like Jimmy Dean Sage )

Separate 1 can of dough and form into 4 rectangles.

Firmly press perforations to seal.
Take the uncooked sausage and cut into 8 chunks.
Using 4 chunks of the sausage, spread thin layer on each rectangle.
Starting at the short end, roll each rectangle tightly into a cylinder. Repeat with other can of dough and sausage.
Place on a plate, cover with plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 30 minutes.
Cut each roll into 4 slices.
Preheat oven to 375.
Place sausage swirls 1/2 inch apart on ungreased baking sheet.
Bake 18-20 minutes.

*We love to dip them in mustard! Yum!

5 Bean Chili

2009-10-22T08:53:00.013-04:00

Breakfast. Uh-huh. My breakfast. This was soooooooo good that when I came home from dropping the kids off at school, I was eating this by 8am. Really. I couldn't wait for lunch. No way.
So, now that I got that off my chest... the night I was making this, I called my sister and told her I was nervous about serving this to my husband, for he is a CHILI CRITIC. He loves to make chili here at the Cozy Kitchen, and well... I was really worried about what he would think.
I was almost certain he wouldn't like it. But not only did he like it....... he RAVED about it through out dinner, and so did my boys. {It was too spicy for my 5 year old daughter though.}
They all said it's a KEEPER and I'm so glad, because they don't even know it yet...but leftovers are even better !! Thanks Emeril !

Oh ! And another thing... My husband taught me to eat chili with saltine crackers, topped with margarine and then topped with a spoonful of chili. Oh my word. YUM!! I wish I knew about that when I was growing up. All those years I ate chili alone...how sad. If you haven't tried it, you should. I've never been able to eat chili without saltines again.

5 Bean Chili - Emeril Lagasse

1 pound ground chuck
1 cup diced yellow onion
1 cup diced green bell pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 tablespoons Mexican style chili powder
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground coriander
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, broken up with your hands
3 cups beef stock or canned low-sodium beef broth
2 bay leaves
1 1/2 cups cooked and drained great Northern beans
1 1/2 cups cooked and drained pinto beans
1 1/2 cups cooked and drained kidney beans
1 1/2 cups cooked and drained black beans
1 1/2 cups cooked and drained navy beans

In a Dutch oven, over medium-high heat, cook the meat until well browned, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the onions, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, salt, cumin, black pepper, cayenne pepper, coriander, and cinnamon, and cook until vegetables are soft, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the tomatoes, stock, and bay leaves; bring the mixture to a simmer, partially cover, and cook for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the beans, stir to combine, and continue to cook another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the flavors have come together and the chili has a nice, thick consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary.

*I topped mine with a dollop of sour cream & shredded cheddar. Yum!*

It's Foodie Friday over at Designs by Golllum !

2009-10-19T08:36:00.018-04:00

It's Outdoor Wednesday over at A Southern Daydreamer , Watery Wednesday, & Waterside Wednesday !

hide -to obstruct the view of.

tran⋅quil - free from commotion or tumult; peaceful; quiet; calm:

har⋅mo⋅ni⋅ous- forming a pleasingly consistent whole

lone- being alone; without company or accompaniment; solitary; unaccompanied:

It's Blue Monday over at Smiling Sally's !

The True Tale of the PUMPKIN CHIP MUFFIN

2009-10-17T19:02:00.015-04:00

"OH MY GOSH !" squealed Queen B.

Teenage son #1 comes running in the kitchen.
"What happened mom?!"

Queen B can't talk. Her mouth is full. She just hands her son a muffin using hand signals to indicate that he should try one.

"mmmmm" said son #1.

Son #2 enters the kitchen....... grabs a muffin and takes a bite.
"When are you going to make these again ? " He said, staring at 20 muffins still left on the platter.

Son # 2 finds son #3 and hands him one..."Mmmmmmm" he said.

Daughter is sitting next to Queen B and said hers was 'yumma-licious'.

This was an ACTUAL EVENT that took place last night ! Really... I never get too excited over my cooking, but HELLO ! BEST MUFFIN I EVER ATE. Yep. I'm not kidding. Cindy Middleton of Champion, Alberta was awarded the grand prize in Taste of Home's muffin bake off.

Pumpkin Chip Muffins - Taste of Home prize winning recipes, 2005.

4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin
1-1/2 cups canola oil
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips ( I used milk-chocolate chips)

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, pumpkin and oil until smooth.

Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt; gradually add to pumpkin mixture and mix well.

Fold in chocolate chips. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full.

Bake at 400° for 15 -18minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. ( mine only took 15 min ). Cool in pan 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack.

Yield: about 2 dozen muffins.

And don't forget, it's DIY Day over at a soft place to land !

Participating at the krazy kitchen.

Kalua Pork

2009-10-15T08:04:00.024-04:00

When I lived in Hawaii, I loved the Kalua Pork they served at all the luau's we went to. I learned how to make it while I was living there, and this is truly, one of my favorite recipes, ever. It's so simple to make and everyone loves it. It feeds my large family for 2 nights and lunches in between ! When I serve this for company, it's almost embarrassing how many compliments I get !

You can serve this so many ways. On a plate, with Carolina BBQ sauce to dip in, or on a bun, or my personal favorite, served in corn tortillas that I grill on my stove top !

Here's what you need:

1 5-6 lb. Boston Butt Pork Roast * (I got this on sale for 6.99)
2 TBS. Hawaiian Sea Salt (or Kosher Salt)
2 TBS. Liquid Smoke
1 1/2 C. water

Rub the pork roast with salt.
Place in deep roasting pan.

Mix the water and liquid smoke, and pour in the roasting pan.

Seal pan tightly with foil.

Bake at 350 for 3 1/2 to 4 hours.

Test the pork - it will shred easily and pull away from the bone.
Let the meat cool down for 1/2 hour at room temp.
Take the meat out of the liquid (reserve the liquid!) and shred with 2 forks.
Remove any visable fat.
Pour enough of the reserved liquid back in the meat to moisten.
This pork can be cooked a day ahead and reheated in a low oven.

Serve with Carolina BBQ Sauce

1 C. apple cider vinegar

1 C. ketchup

2 TBS. brown sugar (packed)

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. dried crushed red pepper

Stir all ing. in bowl until sugar and salt dissolve. Can be prepared 3 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate.

{Participating in Tasty Tuesday, & Foodie Friday !}

Outdoor Wednesday

2009-10-12T20:23:00.048-04:00

I had the chance to tour a battleship that was commissioned in April of 1941 this weekend.
I was surprised that I was so emotional during the tour ...imagining what it would have been like aboard that ship during war.

My own husband was a Marine, deployed on a ship when I gave birth our to first child. I remember calling the Red Cross so that they could notify him that he was a father.

He remembered the knock on his door, with the news that his wife had given birth to his son.

I remembered the endless prayers... "Please God, bring him home safely so he can meet his son."

I remembered all of those we have known and lost. Too many. Just far too many... I thought of the children who have daddy's that won't be coming home....

It was a moving day for both of us.

{Participating in Blue Monday over at Smiling Sally's.}

It's Outdoor Wednesday over at a Southern Daydreamer !

Simple Butter and Tomato Sauce

2009-10-08T23:39:00.028-04:00

{Pasta Bowl by Lenox (Butterfly pattern in 'Cloud', $4.99... at TJ Maxx right now!}

My favorite food is Italian. Authentic Italian. I could eat pasta 7 days a week.

I consider Marcella Hazan, the "authority" of Italian cooking. Quite a few years ago, her son, Giuliano Hazan came out with a cookbook called "How to Cook Italian".

Giuliano says, "This sauce has been a favorite since my mother made it when I was a little boy. Now it is a favorite of my 5-year-old daughter, Gabriella. Nothing could be simpler, or more delicious. When flavorful ripe fresh tomatoes are in season, by all means use them. If it is winter and only mediocre tomatoes are available, a good quality canned tomato is best. When tossing pasta with it, mix in some freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese."

The minute he said it was a favorite of his since he was a boy, I flew to my pantry to make this. It had to be good. And that's what I want.... I want my children to remember me cooking in the kitchen. I want the house to smell of 'comfort' the minute they walk in the door from school.

This sauce is the PERFECT sauce when you have NO TIME to simmer marinara on the stove all afternoon like I do all the time. This is the ONLY sauce I use during soccer season, and on days that I'm running errands. As Christmas approaches, I can assure you, we will eat this once a week. Trust me, I've been making this for 6 years ! I never thought a simple sauce could really change your life, but it did ! I ALWAYS have these ingredients in the house, so at any given time, I can make this.

It's 100% comfort. With 4 ingredients, it's economical. Feeds my large family. But MOST importantly, it's seriously one of the most amazing, delicious sauces that I make.

I adore Giuliano for sharing this with us !! I love the entire cookbook ! {platter- Iroquois China ,Syracuse, New York - Thrift store, 70 cents.

pumpkin head scarecrow, TJ Maxx, $7.99 }

Simple Butter and Tomato Sauce (Sugo al Burro e Pomodoro)
HOW TO COOK ITALIAN by Giuliano Hazan

Makes enough for 1 pound dried pasta

1 large can, whole tomatoes, purred or 1 large can of crushed tomatoes
6 tablespoons butter (REAL BUTTER PLEASE!)
Salt
1 medium yellow onion

1. Coarsely chop the tomatoes and put them in a sauce pot.** I use my immersion blender right in the can. (carefully! ) then pour in sauce pan.
Place over medium heat, add the butter, and season with salt. (don't skip the salt!)

2. Peel the onion, trim away the root end, cut it in half, and add it to the pot.

When the tomatoes begin to bubble, lower the heat to low and simmer until the tomatoes are no longer watery and the sauce has reduced, 30-45 minutes, depending on the size and shape of the pot. The sauce will cook faster in a larger, wider pot. When the sauce is done you should not see any more liquid in the pan.

{I remove the onion and I like to serve it on the side with toasted baguette bread. The onion caramelizes and becomes very sweet ! Yummy !!}
Toss with your choice of 1 lb. pasta !

Note: Once cool, the sauce will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or you can freeze it for up to two months.

You can't get much simpler than this !

It's DIY Day over at a soft place to land. Thanks Kimba !

Also Participating in Foodie Friday , & Friday's Family Recipe & Hooked on Houses.!

2009-10-07T00:01:00.014-04:00

wind: air in natural motion, as that moving horizontally at any velocity along the earth's surface:

con⋅tem⋅plate: to consider thoroughly; think fully or deeply about

doze: to fall into a light sleep unintentionally

a⋅maze: to overwhelm with surprise or sudden wonder; astonish greatly.

It's Outdoor Wednesday at a southern daydreamer, WATERY Wednesday, and Waterside Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Barbara Jacksier & Wordful Wednesday ! !

Lemon Bars

2009-10-05T07:50:00.030-04:00

I have recently become a huge apron fan. I'm tired of ruining my clothes in the kitchen !

I found this darling apron at TJ Maxx last week. It's feminine, flirty and I can't wait to wear it while I'm making Thanksgiving dinner ! { I tried it on for Mr.B and all I can say is I think I blushed ! } At least I can feel pretty while I cook !!

I love this color combo !

Introducing my Frugalicious Friday find !

{ TJ Maxx apron, $7.99 }

I had a hankering for something sweet & tart, so I made lemon bars. I didn't have time to whip out my kitchen aide so I made this standby when I have zero time, but need a dessert.

I use Krusteaz Lemon Bar Mix. ( and NO, I did not get paid to review this product. It's just a box in my pantry that I've been using for years )

Follow instructions on the box and Just add the juice of 1 fresh lemon... and it is sooo good ! I keep a box in my pantry for unexpected company, or when I'm in the mood for something sweet but don't want to mess the kitchen !

{Also participating in Blue Monday over at Smiling Sally's !}

The Wine Exchange (oh, and a giveaway)

2009-10-02T19:36:00.031-04:00

Today was errand day. I came home with a new book. You know what that means, don't you ?

My book shelf is full, so in order for her to live here, she needs for one of my books to leave. You know...the whole 'cozy kitchen' thing applies to my whole house.

Outtakes from a Marriage by Ann Leary.

I really enjoyed this book. I won't give anything away, except to say that if I was the 'wife' in this book, I would have acted and felt the same way. I mean...um..EXACTLY THE SAME WAY !

I found that when I was reading this book, my stomach was clenched ! It was very real, and it had to come from 'experience'....it just had to. I know the author denied that it was based on her life with Dennis, but I beg to differ. {I'm just sayin'......!! }You can read about it here.

If you're looking for a fall read, please leave a comment on this post to enter the giveaway. And if you won in the past, enter again ! It's ok to win twice !

Random.org will pick the winner Tuesday morning !

Now, for the good stuff !

Tonight I'm tasting Toasted Head Cabernet Sauvignon ."With a bouquet of cherry and blackberry fruit... Notes of chocolate, leather, roasted coffee, and sweet oak linger in the mouth. Tannins are mouthfilling but soft, with a hint of smoke. "

This is my kind of wine. I love everything about it. And so does Mr.B !! TGIF.... {I found it on sale for $9.99 and I will buy it again this fall.} Yummy !

{Don't forget...to enter the giveaway, just leave me a comment ! }

Stromboli

2009-10-01T07:54:00.014-04:00

I made this for lunch last year on Christmas Eve. It was a huge hit with the kids and I've been making it ever since. It's super easy, yummy and a lot cheaper than ordering pizza on Friday Night.

Stromboli {adapted from Rachel Ray's version} I like to double this recipe.

1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (recommended: Pillsbury brand)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or corn meal
1/4 pound sliced pepperoni, about 24 slices
6 slices provolone, deli sliced
6 slices Italian hot ham
8 slices Genoa salami
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano or Romano

Note: For this version, I used mozzarella, ham & pepperoni because it's all I had on hand. That's what I love about this recipe. You can use whatever you want. It's great if you serve marinara sauce on the side to dip in !

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Break open the tube of dough and remove it from container. Dust your hands and lightly coat the dough with flour or cornmeal the roll out onto work surface. Stretch out dough, gently spreading out the rectangle shape it has been formed into already. Cover dough with: 6 slices pepperoni, 1 1/2 slices cheese, 1 1/2 slices hot ham and 2 slices Genoa salami leaving a 1 inch border. Starting at the long end, roll up the dough into a cylinder, pinching the edges to seal. Brush dough with extra-virgin olive oil then add grated parmesean cheese.
Bake until evenly golden, 12 to 14 minutes.

(Serve with marinara on the side for dipping.)

It's DIY day over at a soft place to land.

Also participating in Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollum & Friday's Family Recipe & Hooked on Houses.

2009-09-28T08:57:00.027-04:00

Yesterday was a gorgeous day after so many days of rain. We just had to take the boat out. Leaving shore, look what I spotted ! I love that blue truck. To me , that's in the blue family...right Sally ? By the way, it's Blue Monday at Smiling Sally.

Walking along the coast,just look at what I found ! My very first starfish and sand dollars ! I never, ever thought I'd be so lucky. These little beauties must have been waiting just for me to take them home. I found this perfect bowl at a local vintage store. It's all tattered looking, but I love it. It's shallow, and the perfect home for these newbies at the Cozy Kitchen !

Participating in Thrifty Finds at Southern Hospitality

Outdoor Wednesday over at a Southern Daydreamer, and Watery Wednesday and finally

Waterside Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Barbara Jacksier !

Buffalo Chicken Strips

2009-09-25T08:15:00.007-04:00

This one's for the boys...

What is it with men and hot wings anyways ?

I tried Martha Stewart's Buffalo wings. They were great. It took me forever to prepare, and that was a few years ago, and I was never inspired to make them again. It was just too messy and fussy for me.

I have a secret and I'm going to share it with you. Come here.... a little closer....ok...that's good.

Ready ?

These came out of a bag !

This summer I tried Tyson Buffalo Chicken Strips simply because they were on sale at Walmart.

If you could have seen the look on my hubby's face when he came home for dinner and tried one.... his exact words were.... "Did you pick these up from Hooters ?"

I've never eaten at Hooters. Ever. { But I hear they serve great buffalo wings. } Ya, right ! He loved these, and even splashed extra Franks Sauce on his because he likes his wings super hot. I thought they were hot enough ! Just serve with blue cheese or ranch on the side...and you're done. How easy is that ?

I always have to have an 'back up plan' on days I run way too many errands, like today. I was comforted knowing that dinner was taken care of.

These are perfect for football season... a lot of people tailgate.. or just stash a bag in your freezer so when you are out shopping all day, you know what's for dinner. So, there. That's my secret. It's my version of not cooking, but everyone's still happy !

They really are good. I mean really good ! I hate to admit it, because I take pride in cooking for my family, but my hubby has actually called from work to ask if I can make these !

Do yourself a favor, give yourself the night off in the kitchen, and serve these up. If you like hot wings, you'll like these.

Participating in Foodie Friday & Friday's Family Recipe

Miss Mermaid

2009-09-23T06:19:00.019-04:00

I grabbed my camera and headed to town.

How I adore Miss Mermaid atop this old home.

These homes are from waaay back when pirates came to shore...

soooo romantic.... I can imagine Elizabeth Swann in a white flowy dress standing on that balcony

looking towards the water, waiting for Jack Sparrow to come back from the sea.... (sigh)

This is her view...

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Susan at a Southern Daydreamer & Waterside Wednesday,hosted by Barbara Jacksier &Watery Wednesday , and hooked on houses.

Million Dollar Oats 'n Honey Granola Pie

2009-09-22T07:55:00.047-04:00

I cried on my birthday.
Why ?

Because when I was busy making coffee,
my daughter was busy washing Barbie's hair.

I asked her Why?

"Because it's your birthday and I want her to look pretty".

{sniffle }

She could hardly contain herself as she said she had lots of presents for me and that she wrapped them all herself.

She was right !
11 presents and 12 tulips.
That's lots and lots of presents and flowers !
{sniffle}

My boys are really sick with the flu, but one of them felt 'well' enough to come downstairs with a gift for me.
My boys are LEGO fanatics. They have bins and bins full of legos. They create the most amazing original Lego Creations ever.
This is what he made.

{Go ahead, hand me a tissue would ya ?}

A replica of my kitchen.

He knows how much time I spend in this kitchen and he knows my love of cooking. He even made sure my 'nick knack' shelf was there ( left side ).

And he knows it's my dream to have wood floors in my kitchen one day... so he said..."Mom, I even gave you wood floors."

Let me tell you... I cried like a baby.

These lego floors are the only floors I will ever need. Thank you God, for blessing me with a child so loving and thoughtful. I will never want for anything more than the love of my children.

{I feel like Julia Child. Yes I do.}

Oh ! And speaking of Julia and cooking... I made a pie for my birthday by default ! I was actually searching for my cake recipe and couldn't find it, and this happened to be on top, and I only had 30 seconds before I had to leave for the grocery... soooo

I made THE PIE that won $1 MILLION dollars in the 2004 Pillsbury Bake off created by Suzanne Conrad .

Can you imagine ?? $1 million dollars ! Um...I still wouldn't trade it for my Lego Kitchen or 11 presents and 12 tulips.

But boy howdy, it was GOOD !! And I'm not even a pie girl !

It was still amazing the next day, so if I make this for a party, I will go ahead and make it the day before because I hate rushing around when I expect company.

Oh...and another thing.

I used a deep dish pie dish with this...but I'll use a regular pyrex pie dish next time because the filling didn't go to the tippy top.

Without further ado.....

Created by Suzanne Conrad

Million Dollar Oats 'n Honey Granola Pie

1 refrigerated Pillsbury® pie crust (from 15-ounce box), softened as directed on box Filling
1/2 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 eggs , lightly beaten
4 Nature Valley® Oats 'n Honey crunchy granola bars (2 pouches) crushed. To easily crush granola bars, do not unwrap. Use rolling pin to crush bars.

1/2 cup chopped walnuts *(I did NOT add, just because my family is not crazy about nuts in desserts)

1/4 cup quick-cooking or old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup chocolate chips
Whipped cream or ice cream , if desired

Heat oven to 350°F.

Place pie crust in 9-inch glass pie pan as directed on box for One-Crust Filled Pie.In large microwavable bowl, microwave butter on high 50 to 60 seconds or until melted.

Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup until blended. Beat in salt, vanilla and eggs.Stir crushed granola bars, walnuts, oats and chocolate chips into brown sugar mixture. Pour into crust-lined pan.

Bake 40 to 50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.

During last 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover crust edge with strips of foil or pie shield to prevent excessive browning.

Cool at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled with whipped cream or ice cream.

Store in refrigerator.

{Participating in Tuesdays at the table & Tasty Tuesday & it's DIY day over at a soft place to land }

Blue Skies

2009-09-21T08:08:00.019-04:00

So here's a peek outside my kitchen window... Thank you God for such beautiful blue skies !

Happy Blue Monday ! {Thank you Smiling Sally for hosting!}

Smokey BBQ Brisket

2009-09-17T08:37:00.027-04:00

One of my hubby's favorite childhood memories is that of his dad making smoked brisket in a real smoker... Everytime we fly out to visit, his dad has smoked brisket waiting for him.
Well, I wanted to bring that 'feeling' into our home. I think it's important to make not only my favorite childhood foods, but also my husbands. But I don't have a smoker and I don't want one. I don't have the room. Remember, I live in a cozy house. {Very little storage }

Being married to a guy from Missouri means I had to find the most awesome smoked bbq brisket recipe out there, and I have ! I've been making this for years. It's simple. It's economical. This brisket was $13.99 . You can get it for around $8.00 when it's on sale !! It feeds my large family. Makes enough for leftovers ( Yahoo ! ) and get this... my husband said it rivals his dad's ! I almost cried right then and there !

When COZY weather arrives, you will be sooooooo HAPPY you bookmarked this recipe ! I promise, it's SOOOOO GOOD !!

{La Rochere goblet in the "Bee"pattern from TJ Maxx ! $2.99 }

1 (4- to 6-pound) beef brisket, trimmed
1 (5-ounce) bottle liquid smoke
1 onion, chopped
2 teaspoons garlic salt
1 to 2 teaspoons salt
1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 (12- to 18-ounce) bottle barbecue sauce ( I use KC Masterpiece )

Place brisket in a large shallow dish or extra-large, heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag; pour liquid smoke over brisket. Sprinkle evenly with onion, garlic salt, and salt. Cover or seal, and chill 8 hours, turning occasionally.

Remove brisket, and place on a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil, discarding liquid smoke mixture. Pour Worcestershire sauce evenly over brisket, and fold foil to seal; place wrapped brisket in a roasting pan.

Bake at 275° for 5 hours. ( I put the lid on also )

Unfold foil; pour barbecue sauce evenly over brisket. Bake 1 more hour, uncovered.

{Southern Living, JULY 2003 }

It's DIY day over at a soft place to land & Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollum and it's my Frugal Friday post because this feeds a lot of people for very little & hooked on houses and Friday's Family Recipe ! Whew ! Why ? Because everyone needs this recipe ! I need a nap now !

Outdoor Wednesday

2009-09-16T13:22:00.007-04:00

jump: to spring clear of the ground or other support by a sudden muscular effort; leap: to jump into the air...extend: to stretch forth or hold out...

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Susan at a Southern Daydreamer & Waterside Wednesday,hosted by Barbara Jacksier !

2009-09-15T15:46:00.003-04:00

Patrick.Swayze. Yep, definitely one of the first crushes I ever had.
I have never seen him dance with his wife before, and thought this was a beautiful tribute to him, and the love and life they shared.

Swayze wrote about his love for his wife. “How grateful I am that you chose to love me. I know that because of you, I’ve found my spirit. I saw the man I wanted to be. You are my woman, my lover, my mate and my lady. I loved you forever, I love you now and I will love you forever more.”

2009-09-13T16:28:00.021-04:00

While I was out this weekend, I stumbled upon this old Ball Mason jar that has bubbles in it... They reminded me of fish bubbles, so I had to have it ! I suddenly have an apron obsession. I found this vintage hostess apron and I love the blue organza...it's sheer and feminine.
It has faded red roses which I find so charming ! I love blue and red together ! I'm packing this up and sending it to my sister who loves anything vintage !
Blue Monday hosted by the wonderful Smiling Sally!

Corn & Cheddar Chowder

2009-09-10T08:56:00.010-04:00

If you're a regular reader of mine, you have seen this soup recipe before, but it deserves another look in case you are looking for a fabulous soup recipe for the fall !

IT. IS. AMAZING.

I have to have it on our menu at least every other week through the winter.

It's fast, easy and sooooooooo delicious. The best part ... Leftovers are just as good !

Outdoor Wednesday

2009-09-09T07:53:00.005-04:00

climb: to go up or ascend, especially by using the hands and feet or feet only.

twirl: to cause to rotate rapidly; spin; revolve; whirl.
It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Susan at a Southern Daydreamer !

Southwestern Salad with Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken

2009-09-08T10:58:00.009-04:00

This salad is so yummy and a family favorite ! I knew I wanted to grill on Labor Day, and I knew exaclty what I wanted to make ! I just didn't think I'd be doing it in the rain !
Southwestern Chicken Salad

10 C. torn romaine

1 15oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 1/2 C. cherry tomatoes (or whatever you have )

1/2 C. Caesar Salad Dressing ( I used Ken's Tableside Caesar)

2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

2 TBS. snipped fresh cilantro

1/2 C. broken tortilla chips

* 1 1/2 C. chopped cooked chicken ( NOTE: I used the grilled chicken )

1. In large bowl, combine romaine, black beans, tomatoes, (and chicken )if you want to add it all together. ** I made the salad and served the chicken on the side.

2. For dressing : whisk salad dressing, chili powder, and cumin. Pour over salad. Toss to coat.

Sprinkle with cilantro and tortilla chips.

Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken

Oooh this summer I discovered KC Masterpiece Lime Chipotle Marinade and it's amazing !

I just marinated the chicken for a few hours, and grilled !

Plenty of leftovers for my hubby to take to work.

He'll be Oh so Happy !

P.s.

It's DIY Day at a soft place to land !

Molasses Spice Cookies

2009-09-03T05:54:00.030-04:00

When I'm stressed, I lose all interest in food. I decided to make comfort cookies, trying to coax my appetite back. While I was baking these, my house smelled like a "home" and childhood memories flooded back. I remember when I would come home from school, and my mom already had dinner simmering on the stove, and it was always such a comforting feeling. If your looking for a 'comforting' cookie, these hit the spot. The first thing my boys said when they walked in the door from school was........ MMMMMMMMmmmmmmm , what's that smell ? {Heavenly}

For those Ina Garten fans ... I found these La Rochere glasses at TJ Maxx ! $2.99 each. This pattern is Versailles, which is perfect for me because it has shells on it ! ( Ina has the Amite pattern by Cristallerie La Rochere )

Molasses Spice Cookies (Cooks Illustrated THE BEST RECIPE COOKBOOK)
Preparation time: 30 minutes. Makes 18 large cookies.

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons of baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
3/4 teaspoon ground cloves
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus 1/3 cup for rolling cookies
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsulphered molasses

Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, allspice together in a bowl and set aside.

Use an electric mixer and beat the butter for 2 minutes. Add the brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes with mixer set at medium speed. Add egg, vanilla extract, and molasses. Beat until combined, about 30 seconds. Scrape down sides of bowl with a rubber spatula.

Add dry ingredients and beat at low speed until just combined, about 30 seconds.

Place remaining 1/3 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow bowl. Working with 2 Tbsp of dough each time, roll dough into 1 3/4 inch balls. Roll balls in sugar and place on ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them 1 1/2 to 2 inches apart.

Bake until the outer edges of the cookies begin to set and centers are soft and puffy, about 11 to 13 minutes. Cool cookies on sheets for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring them to cooling racks .

Note: do not overcook. The centers of the cookies should be somewhat soft and spongy when you take them out of the oven, otherwise they will end up hard and dry.

plate -"Shoreline" by Spode. ($2.99 at TJ Maxx) I love this pattern !

It's DIY Day at a soft place to land and my entry for Foodie Friday hosted by Desgins by Gollum

Outdoor Wednesday

2009-09-02T08:14:00.010-04:00

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Susan at a Southern Daydreamer and it's also Waterside Wednesday !

re⋅flec⋅tion- the act of reflecting or the state of being reflected {nieces}

cast - to throw forth, as from within

{my sister's daughter}

"Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:22

Vintage Table

2009-08-31T08:45:00.017-04:00

Driving home Friday afternoon, I spotted this vintage blue painted table. I have been looking for a side table for my daughters room and I knew this would be perfect. Lots of space for her to place her trinkets. She has a small room, so I need to be practical about what I buy her. I think it turned out really cute.
I love blue glass, and this vintage Ball Mason Jar is my favorite color of blue, ever. Soothing and beautiful..........

Years ago, my grandmother gave me antique tea cups & saucers from her collection. She doesn't remember me anymore, but this reminds me of her and how things used to be.

And I smile... Thanks for stopping by !

Stop by Southern Hospitality for more great yard sale finds and stop by
Smiling Sally for more Blue Monday !

Penne with Tomatoes, Olives and Two Cheeses

2009-08-28T06:44:00.007-04:00

This is such a huge hit in my family, that it was the first meal I made for my husband when he returned home from Iraq after being deployed for an entire year. Since the kids went back to school this week, I needed to make something really special.

So, when my daughter was busy getting "married", I had plenty of time to whip this up.

Penne with Tomatoes, Olives and Two Cheeses
{Bon Appétit February 1995} Yes, I've been making this for 14 years !

6 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
3 (28-ounce) cans Italian plum tomatoes, drained
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 1/2 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper
2 cups canned low-salt chicken broth
1 pound penne or rigatoni
2 1/2 cups packed grated Havarti cheese
1/3 cup sliced pitted brine-cured olives (such as Kalamata)
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil

Heat 3 tablespoons oil in heavy large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Mix in tomatoes, dried basil and crushed red pepper. Bring to boil, breaking up tomatoes with back of spoon. Add broth; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer and mixture thickens to chunky sauce and is reduced to 6 cups, stirring occasionally, about 1 hour 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill. Rewarm over low heat before continuing.)

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain well.

Return pasta to same pot. Toss with 3 tablespoons oil. Pour sauce over and toss to blend. Mix in Havarti cheese. Transfer pasta to 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish. Sprinkle with olives, then Parmesan. Bake until pasta is heated through, about 30 minutes. Sprinkle with basil.

Outdoor Wednesday

2009-08-26T05:52:00.005-04:00

hur⋅ry: to move, proceed, or act with haste

bliss: supreme happiness; utter joy or contentment

free⋅dom: the state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Susan at a Southern Daydreamer
and my entry for Barbara's Waterside Wednesday and let's not forget the Beach Party hosted by
the shabby chic cottage !

Mississippi Mud Cake

2009-08-25T08:12:00.008-04:00

This has been requested as 'birthday cake' for 2 years in a row from one of my sons, so I guess it must be good !
While the 'cake' is not too sweet, the frosting/marshmallow topping is uber sweet, so it balances out. Here's what you need:

I love it the next day best, not sure why.
Mississippi Mud Cake {recipe courtesy of Southern Livings 30 years of our best recipes cookbook.}

1 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup cocoa
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs, slightly beaten
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 dash salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 cups mini marshmallows

Frosting:

1 (16 ounce) package powdered sugar, sifted

1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup cocoa
1/4 cup softened butter or margarine

Directions-
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch pan.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan.

Add the cocoa and stir.
Remove from the heat.

Pour butter mixture into a mixing bowl and add sugar and eggs.
Mix until blended.
Add the vanilla.
Mix in the flour and salt.

Spoon batter into a lightly greased 13 x 9 inch pan.

Bake at 350 for 35 minutes.

Remove from oven and sprinkle with marshmallows over hot cake.
Immediately spread frosting over marshmallows on cake. Cool in pan on a wire rack.

Cut into squares to serve. (Chill before slicing for neater squares, but I've always skipped that part !)

Hosted by the wonderful Kimba for DIY Day !

Oh so blue

2009-08-24T10:29:00.013-04:00

How ironic...It's Blue Monday...and so perfectly matches my mood !

I'm blue because it's the end of summer.

I'm blue because school starts tomorrow for my boys.

I'm blue because I hate the sound of an empty house (even though it's not completely empty- I still have my daughter around... but boys sure make a lot of noise !)

And I'm blue because I'm still traumatized over my son's injuries last week.

I had to take down the post because all it did was make me sad when I saw it.

But for all of those who left a word of comfort and support, I thank you from the bottom of my heart !

And now for Blue Monday hosted by Smiling Sally

(Photos taken on a weekend getaway !)

p.s.
A fabulous chocolaty recipe and a new giveaway is on the way...stay tuned !

Home Fries

2009-08-22T22:23:00.006-04:00

I can't tell you how excited I am right now. Seriously. You all know I have a cozy kitchen. That also means a cozy town, where there isn't a Denny's or Bob Evans or IHOP around to go out to breakfast. When we take trips, my children are most excited when we go out to breakfast. One of my sons actually day dreams of hash browns at diners!! I've tried my best to make hash browns or home fries for years with disastrous results. I mean really....how hard can it be ? ( Evidently VERY hard for me.) I can't even manage to make those "Simply Potatoes" in the green package come out right.

Ok... I need to take a deep breath and tell you this. I just made the BEST HOME FRIES I have ever eaten, and they were easy, fast and not greasy ! For a second, I even imagined Guy Fieri standing in my kitchen sampling my home fries with a large wooden spoon, giving the Queen B a knuckle bump and featuring me as his number 1 pick for home fries at the local diners, drive- ins and dives. Don't worry....I snapped out of it quite quickly as the kids were asking for another helping.

I'm not kidding. This is recipe is perfect for me because I have 4 kids...3 of which are BOYS and nothing makes boys happier than a big ol' breakfast on the weekends.
What I love is that now we don't have to wish we had a local diner to go to on the weekends....... The Cozy Kitchen is the diner ! Not to mention how CHEAP this meal is when you serve it with eggs... 2 or 3 potatoes and a dozen eggs ? $5.00 at most to feed a family of six. I'm seriously happy folks.

Quick and easy Home Fries
Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com

3 medium russet potatoes, cubed (keep skin on )
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Rinse potato cubes with cold water, and drain well. ** MAKE SURE YOU DRY THEM WELL AFTER.**

Melt butter or margarine in a large skillet over medium heat. Place potatoes in the skillet, and stir to coat with butter. Season with salt and pepper. Cover with a lid, and cook for 10 minutes. Remove the lid, and cook for another 10 minutes, turning frequently until brown and crisp on all sides

The Wine Exchange

2009-08-21T20:10:00.012-04:00

I've been waiting for this moment all week long !

It's been "one of those weeks" I'd rather forget forever and ever, or if someone could just rewind the clock that would be great too.

Tonight I will introduce

Ruffino's Lumina Pinot Grigio (Italy )

(*I picked this up at Walmart on sale for $8.97 )

I always think that white wines are summer wines, but I can see myself sipping this now and into the fall months, as it has such nice green and citrus hints to it.

I really like it.....Yahooo ! Things are looking up already !

" The bouquet opens with sensations of wild flowers which are immediately sustained by notes of pears and green apples. Refined mineral scents bring elegance and finesse to the wide variety of aromas." from the Ruffino website.

2009-08-20T07:14:00.022-04:00

Using Random.org, the winner of my first give giveaway is comment #5, who happens to be SeaLaura !

I'm not sure if it was 'fate' or not, but I as you know, I love the Sea, and my sister's name is LAURA, and SeaLaura is a Spanish teacher, and guess where I was born ? Spain !
Congratulations !

Summer

2009-08-19T08:05:00.017-04:00

run - to go quickly by moving the legs more rapidly than at a walk and in such a manner that for an instant in each step all or both feet are off the ground.

sand- the more or less fine debris of rocks, consisting of small, loose grains, often of quartz.
swing - to cause to move to and fro, sway, or oscillate, as something suspended from above

It's Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the wonderful Susan at a Southern Daydreamer !

and the entry for my thematic photo hosted by written inc !

Vintage Find & a priceless moment !

2009-08-17T07:41:00.036-04:00

Since my camera is broken, I have to post about this thrifty find I made a few months ago.

Vintage Winter Frost White Corelle, 1970.

{8 cups & saucers, a mere 10 cents each.}

I spent 80 cents.

When I saw these, the first thought that came to mind was this...

Jello !

and I have to say, even my teenage sons thought that eating jello out of these was 'cool'.

And I really must share a priceless moment for me this weekend.

While we were boating, we came upon a school of dolphins ! There were 7, swimming right next to us. All in pairs with a new mama and BABY !!! Oh my gosh, I cannot tell you how excited I was. It was a magical moment. Thankfully I had my cell phone with me. (My new camera needs to get here soon !!!! )Here is the only photo I was able to capture.

And don't forget to stop by Southern Hospitality for more thrifty finds, and Smiling Sally for more blue !

P.s.
Don't forget....you still have time to enter my book giveaway ! Just leave a comment on that post !

Bathroom Makeover

2009-08-13T08:29:00.017-04:00

I forgot to take a 'before' picture, but we used to have a small, white pedestal sink in our downstairs bathroom. The walls were painted a horrible builders grade white flat paint and it was always very uninviting.

My husband ripped out the old sink, and this is what I wanted. More storage and soft blue walls ! {Posted for Kimba's DIY Day! }

{Paint-Benjamin Moore HC-147 Woodlawn Blue}

sink & cabinet & faucet - Lowes

mirror - Target