tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40017186293784911452024-03-12T18:48:17.779-07:00Creating from scratchMy Gluten-Free recipe book with a few of my other creative pursuits thrown in.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.comBlogger173125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-9598071089160893992020-01-02T17:39:00.001-08:002020-01-06T09:17:05.012-08:00Family FavoritesThese are some of our personal favorite recipes.<br />
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<b><u>Breakfast, Appetizers, & Sides</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/10/black-bean-salsa.html">Black Bean Salsa</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/01/dinner-nachos.html">Dinner Nachos</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/01/doughnut-balls.html">Doughnut Balls</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/10/onion-rings.html">Onion Rings & Fry Sauce</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/04/potato-logs-sauce.html">Potato Logs & Sauce</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/11/quesadillas.html">Quesadillas</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/11/seven-layer-dip.html">Seven Layer Dip</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/01/cornbread-northern-style.html">Cornbread (sweet)</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/11/german-pancakes.html">German Pancakes</a></div>
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<b><u>Main Dishes</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/04/grandmas-baked-beans.html">Grandma Wankier’s Baked Beans</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/11/rocky-mountain-bean-storm.html">Rocky Mountain Bean Storm</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/07/delicious-easy-dinner.html">Scalloped Potatoes</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/04/grape-chicken-salad.html">Grape Chicken Salad</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/11/potato-soup.html">Potato Soup</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/01/taco-soup-in-crockpot.html">Crockpot Taco Soup</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/10/chinese-tomato-chow-mein.html">Chinese Tomato Chow Mein</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/10/enchilada-casserole.html">Enchilada Casserole</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/10/choose-your-own-lettuce-wraps.html">Lettuce Wraps</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/10/sweet-sour-meatballs.html">Sweet & Sour Meatballs</a><br />
<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/07/shepherds-pie.html">Shepherd’s Pie</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/04/tin-foil-dinners-la-casserole-style.html">Tin Foil Dinners a la Casserole Style</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/07/delicious-easy-dinner.html">BBQ Chicken</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/05/cheesy-montreal-chicken-burgers.html">Cheesy Montreal Chicken Burgers</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/01/4-cheese-pasta-bake.html">4-Cheese Pasta Bake</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/04/chicken-pasta-bake.html">Chicken Pasta Bake</a><br />
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/03/chicken-enchiladas-with-green-chilie.html">Chicken Enchiladas with Green Chilie Cream Sauce</a></span></div>
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<u><b>Dessert</b></u></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/11/cookie-dough-brownies.html">Cookie Dough Brownies</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/09/chocolate-almond-toffee-squares-with.html">Chocolate, Almond, Toffee, Squares with Caramel Sauce</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/05/ice-cream-sandwiches-with-cookie.html">Double Chocolate Dream Cookies</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/04/moist-delicious-fudgy-brownies.html">Moist, Delicious, Fudgy Brownies</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/04/incredibly-rich-gf-chocolate-cake.html">Incredibly Rich GF Chocolate Cake</a></div>
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<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/07/divine-chocolate-pudding.html">Divine Chocolate Pudding</a></div>
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-2323943152380803172015-12-28T19:52:00.000-08:002015-12-28T19:52:45.351-08:00New Favorite Flour Mixes<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The are so many more flours available now then when we first started the gf journey and so many different versions of the traditional flour mix (rice flour, tapioca, and potato starch) out there that I felt I should try them out. When I was at the grocery store I saw this book with a couple of flour mixes and thought I'd try it.</span></div>
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I have fallen in love with it! I have found the flour mixes to be perfect for every recipe I have made and significantly less gritty. As always, when you use either to make one of your own recipes use about <i>1/2 tsp xantham gum/1C flour mix.</i></div>
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<b><u>All-Purpose Flour mix</u></b></div>
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1 C white rice flour</div>
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1 C sorghum flour</div>
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1 C tapioca flour</div>
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1 C cornstarch</div>
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1 C almond or coconut (I did a 1/2 C of each)</div>
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<b><u>Bread flour mix</u></b></div>
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1 C brown rice flour</div>
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1 C sorghum flour</div>
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1 C tapioca flour</div>
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1 C cornstarch</div>
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3/4 C millet</div>
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1/3 C instant mashed potato flakes</div>
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-44561788789034242682011-03-10T16:09:00.000-08:002015-12-28T19:19:10.822-08:00Basic GF Cooking Tips <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FZqeio5sZOzW_WNL_6k-0ugLkBm-ccfx5F7TXsxYt-E/edit?usp=sharing"><i>(printer friendly version)</i></a><br />
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Recently, a friend of mine contacted me about eating GF. At the same time I was asked to give a class on preparing GF meals for church. The class is aimed at those who aren't GF, but may need to bring someone a meal with GF issues. We are also addressing food allergies and diabetes and other special diets. As a result I have been coming up with some basic GF cooking tips and thought I'd pass them along.<br />
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-<b>You can not use any cooking ingredients that use Wheat, Rye, Barley or non-GF Oats, or any version of these ingredients. Find a <a href="http://www.celiac.com/articles/182/1/Unsafe-Gluten-Free-Food-List-Unsafe-Ingredients/Page1.html">list</a> of unsafe versions of these ingredients and use it!</b></div>
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<i> Seems silly to say if you are GF, but for the group I'm presenting to, this is rule #1, so I am adding it here.</i><br />
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-<b>READ LABELS! </b> They identify Wheat in the allergens section but not Rye and Barley. Look out especially for malt flavoring, a very common ingredient that is a derivative of barley.<br />
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-Buy a new toaster and waffle iron. Your old ones are contaminated and will make you sick. We have two toasters and just buy our GF waffles for cupboard space reasons. For the toasters we have one for everyone else and one labeled with big vinyl letters "GF".<br />
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-When thinking about what to eat, stop thinking about what you can't eat. Write down what you normally cook and you may notice that a lot of what you normally eat is naturally GF or only needs a small adaptation.<br />
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-I am incredibly brand loyal. If you take the time to label products GF or tell me you will always identify gluten ingredients and they will never be hidden (Kraft and McCormick, for example), I will be your friend for life. I also love grocery stories that identify GF foods (Trader Joe's is my favorite).<br />
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-If you don't use mixes normally and you are going to run a GF and non-GF house. Invest or make some. It will make cooking meals so much easier. I usually mix up several bread mixes to keep in the freezer to save time on bread. I also keep a pancake mix around to make breakfast go faster. I also buy GF waffles to save cupboard space so I don't have 2 waffle irons around.</div>
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-Thicken with cornstarch or potato flour if you need to thicken something. Once you get in the habit of cooking GF you may find other alternatives. These are just easy ones to start with.</div>
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-Season with herbs and spices and not seasoning packets, you can find mixes all over the internet that are strictly herbs & spices. I usually just season by taste anymore.</div>
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-Gluten can be found in soy sauce, bbq sauce, all condensed soups, some spaghetti sauces, seasoning packets (taco seasoning, spaghetti sauce mix, dressing mixes, etc.), cold cereals, salsas, etc. You will constantly be surprised where it will pop up. Read labels.</div>
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-Use clean plastic cutting boards (do not use wood cutting boards, they trap gluten and can not be completely cleaned of gluten), plates, knives, etc. If you are unsure about whether a dish has touched gluten, DON'T USE IT!!!</div>
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-- I never set food that is GF directly on the counter. Even if the counter is clean, I can't guarantee someone didn't stick something with gluten on there when I wasn't looking.</div>
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-If you are going to make GF food and food with gluten, make the GF first to avoid contamination.</div>
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-If you have any questions about whether something is GF, Google! If you can't find the answer then call the company. If all else fails, find something else to use.</div>
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-Casseroles are rife with gluten challenges. Approach them carefully and be prepared to do some major adapting. Or, like us, figure out the ones you like the best and say goodbye to the rest. You will eat healthier, hopefully.</div>
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-Just because something says “Wheat-Free” does not mean it is GF. <i>Newman's Own</i> has a wheat free Oreo-like cookie that has rye -- Yep, learned that the hard way. Luckily, my daughter didn't try if before we figured it out.<br />
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-I don't worry about "may contain ______" statements. <span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #191919; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.35; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I feel that is more for their liability than my safety, which means it isn't worth my hassle. It is my understanding that the FDA cleaning requirements for manufacturing equipment are pretty severe, so the likelihood of contamination is VERY small. We’ve never had a problem with my daughter and GF contamination and I have a son with a SEVERE peanut allergy (smelling peanuts causes a reaction) and he has also never had a problem. That said, this is my opinion and our family's decision, and you need to decide what the appropriate level of risk is for you and your family should be by researching it yourself.</span><br />
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-For a hamburger or other sandwich, if you don't want or have GF bread, use lettuce as your bun. Or just use a fork and knife. My non-GF sister has started choosing to eat a hamburger with a lettuce bun so she can save her calories for the cookies.<br />
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-Keep some mixed up flour handy in your kitchen and store the remaining flours in the freezer. GF flour can go rancid quicker than regular flour.</div>
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I'm sure I will add to this as I think of other things. This is just the beginning. If you think of other tips let me know and I will add them to the list.</div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-54990453253681811992011-01-31T11:27:00.000-08:002011-01-31T11:27:00.381-08:00Crockpot Roast with PotatoesLast year for Mother's Day my sister was asked to speak in church on what she had learned from our mother. My sister is a wonderful writer and has a real talent for putting her thoughts into words. I have always admired this about her. Anyway, the way she wrote the talk was to talk about how my mother did not necessarily preach to us, but through everyday things she taught us about life and about the importance of faith. One of those everyday things she used as an example is making a roast. The first step to a good roast is to heat a skillet as hot as possible and brown the roast on all sides until it is ALMOST burned. You don't have to do it, but the roast will taste so much better if you do. She compared this to life. How often we have to be "burned" to learn the lessons we need to learn and to have the greatest "flavor" and wisdom. Ever since my mother told me about the talk I can not cook a roast without being reminded of this great lesson in life. So I am passing it on to you.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b>Crockpot Roast with Potatoes</b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1pTD6L7-rrFliPv_G7L5dyFu-kKMd46csqA5w2ho52BU"><i>(printer friendly)</i></a><br />
3-4 lb roast<br />
1 onion sliced<br />
salt & pepper to taste<br />
1/4 tsp garlic powder<br />
1 tsp dried thyme<br />
1/2 C beef broth<br />
4 med-large potatoes, cut into large pieces <br />
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1. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Using tongs brown the roast on all sides until dark golden brown (almost burnt)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayehveqq1BVlzScdFP_Dvo1t6xNEmTrAtdlUF3krNgpeRcQfMV2p0SZauCfavR2sHzHW0rxKgLSuxIxa2ST6LfqOyBbx6XkAkWuKUXqrq0Mla_f7TCWrp32W3nw-FkmXmZXtP9JcT6I1f/s1600/2010-12-01_9154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayehveqq1BVlzScdFP_Dvo1t6xNEmTrAtdlUF3krNgpeRcQfMV2p0SZauCfavR2sHzHW0rxKgLSuxIxa2ST6LfqOyBbx6XkAkWuKUXqrq0Mla_f7TCWrp32W3nw-FkmXmZXtP9JcT6I1f/s320/2010-12-01_9154.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Looks good already doesn't it. </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZos8KVF19V9eqnRnNf_fuque4XSjtzyDrFVikN3J-NS2KmId2D41aReNElh289z4xgNs0fvXFNh1lciLURRmvZ2rdgxEKhcuY2KLd4xKJef80D8Bs4rO0Ex2l41asmbZgsnyxkKHwDCFP/s1600/2010-12-01_9156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZos8KVF19V9eqnRnNf_fuque4XSjtzyDrFVikN3J-NS2KmId2D41aReNElh289z4xgNs0fvXFNh1lciLURRmvZ2rdgxEKhcuY2KLd4xKJef80D8Bs4rO0Ex2l41asmbZgsnyxkKHwDCFP/s320/2010-12-01_9156.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Even better </i></div><br />
2. Slice the onion. Place 1/2 the slices on the bottom of your crockpot. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtX5RxSuT_twD4u4JjsFqxam4sCCUyZpNRle3MjeA7Ie1vEuy8LYo3tiESHZi8jId9dO4YefcLmWAVdQFtPgzTc5OwTmsQEO3hfixsyfsJEor79weAyttDelrCe7-Y7o_3KBoC_M12uVk/s1600/2010-12-01_9155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtX5RxSuT_twD4u4JjsFqxam4sCCUyZpNRle3MjeA7Ie1vEuy8LYo3tiESHZi8jId9dO4YefcLmWAVdQFtPgzTc5OwTmsQEO3hfixsyfsJEor79weAyttDelrCe7-Y7o_3KBoC_M12uVk/s320/2010-12-01_9155.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
3. Add the seared roast and sprinkle with seasonings. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPi4px6wkoJ-311bcxmEJACnq-WPmnM05tTSjfG1r9C84fTzTm71Zf3bQbjYwSa0xPPm1StDpyTaZOZYsIh2000TPWcuoqm-uLAMY8oBfaktRzaukvcYKr7Qx3Rp3idzXeCvo4k0pyseU6/s1600/2010-12-01_9157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPi4px6wkoJ-311bcxmEJACnq-WPmnM05tTSjfG1r9C84fTzTm71Zf3bQbjYwSa0xPPm1StDpyTaZOZYsIh2000TPWcuoqm-uLAMY8oBfaktRzaukvcYKr7Qx3Rp3idzXeCvo4k0pyseU6/s320/2010-12-01_9157.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
4. Add potatoes and remaining onions and pour over the broth. <br />
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</a></div>5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4.<br />
6. Next remove the roast from the crockpot (leave the potatoes in to stay warm until you are ready to serve them) to a plate and pour some of the remaining sauce over the roast and allow to sit for at least 10-15 minutes. I always worried about this because I HATE cold food, but it really makes a difference. The roast has a chance to cool enough to hold the moisture in, instead of it all escaping as steam when you cut it. When you serve it, pour some more of the remaining broth over it and enjoy!Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-91714855989412959572011-01-24T11:29:00.000-08:002014-08-15T06:52:53.962-07:00Tuna PattiesI made these several months ago and our whole family loved them. They are really simple, and a great pantry food. For GF bread crumbs I strongly recommend processing Rice Chex. They are relatively cheap and don't have much flavor so just the flavor of the food comes through.<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;"><b>Tuna Patties</b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1s9iPUU8Rjn1oYvs4i2LpmyAoNspicLEkZRMSsk1Nz7k"><i>(printer friendly)</i></a><br />
3 (6 oz) cans of tuna, drained & flaked<i>* </i><br />
3 eggs<br />
1 1/2 tsp mustard<br />
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3 T onion, minced<br />
1 clove of garlic, minced<br />
1 tsp pepper<br />
1/8 tsp dill<br />
3/4 C bread crumbs<br />
3 T veg oil <br />
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1. In a medium bowl combine the tuna, eggs, mustardm onion, garlic, pepper, and dill.<br />
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Mix until combined. Then add the bread crumbs.<br />
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Mix with your hands until the mixture is the consistency of cookie dough. <br />
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2. Shape into 6 patties. <br />
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3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and swirl around. Add the patties. Cook on both sides until lightly brown.<br />
4. Serve as a a sandwich with pickles, mayo, lettuce, etc. Or just eat plain. We had ours with sweet potato fries. YUM!Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-49641108591097709192011-01-17T11:29:00.000-08:002014-08-15T06:52:02.028-07:00Snow Cone Syrup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last month I taught preschool as a part of a preschool with a group of mom's. Our topic was snow and for our treat we had snowcones. I got a snowcone maker a few years ago and have had a lot of fun with it. But this was my first attempt at making my own syrup. I made the syrup the way I make my maple syrup and it turned out too thick. That said it was delicious. Here is the recipe with a thinner syrup.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">Snow Cones</span></b> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1eqeNk8yxC8s7heGnyHoAmUXny9ScaNP6r0O1X3nkEfU">(printer friendly)</a><br />
2 C water<br />
2 C sugar<br />
Candy flavoring<br />
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1. In a saucepan combine the water and sugar. Bring to a boil and allow to boil for 1 minute. Remove from stove.<br />
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You can flavor the whole batch or separate into different bowls for flavoring. Add about 1/8 tsp flavoring to each bowl. Taste and add more flavoring as needed. Color with food coloring if desired<br />
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<i>I made, pina colada, lemon, and raspberry.</i></div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-15146411468537663192011-01-10T11:27:00.000-08:002014-08-15T06:52:31.165-07:00Mexican Rice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm sure I have mentioned this before, but I love Mexican food. I love the cheese, I love the spice (just not too spicy, I still want to taste my food), I love the sauces, I love salsa, I love the corn tortillas, I love the beans, I love the corn, . . . Need I go on. Anyway, the other day I made fajitas and thought how if we were at a restaurant they would serve these with rice and beans. So I went looking for a good Mexican rice recipe and found one in my trusty <i>The America's Test Kitchen Family Cookbook</i>. With a little adapting for spiciness and lack of a few ingredients it got made and was delicious!</div>
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<b style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mexican Rice</span></b> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1P9o8R8Yiz_aR80aYu4YGouLvv5LLGJeaMyjwlClurAA"><i>(printer friendly)</i></a></div>
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1 can of tomatoes</div>
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1 small onion, pealed, trimmed & quartered</div>
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1/3 C vegetable oil</div>
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2 C long grain rice</div>
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4 garlic cloves, minced</div>
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1 can diced jalepenos</div>
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2 C chicken broth</div>
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1 T tomato paste</div>
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1 1/2 t salt </div>
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2 1/2 T dried cilantro or 1/2 C fresh</div>
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Pepper</div>
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Lime juice</div>
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1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and place the rack in the middle. Puree the tomatoes and onion in the food processor. There should be 2 Cups of puree. Remove any excess so there is only 2 C.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL8jGBFY4nE086wlU3Hx5q68QOi6lha-UV8kf6naHMjsR73G1TZqzUdFj2COGP2Qy85ia6Tbg50l4GHgcw4Sdhwqw-70uqqrqyj_FUVfe1YlqKmMF1KJrEfb6HbIal-4kNszAHMZo6uvyj/s1600/2010-11-10_9083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL8jGBFY4nE086wlU3Hx5q68QOi6lha-UV8kf6naHMjsR73G1TZqzUdFj2COGP2Qy85ia6Tbg50l4GHgcw4Sdhwqw-70uqqrqyj_FUVfe1YlqKmMF1KJrEfb6HbIal-4kNszAHMZo6uvyj/s320/2010-11-10_9083.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>I made A LOT of this since I wanted to freeze it for later. So you would have a lot less than this for this recipe.</i></div>
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2.Heat the oil on med. heat in an oven proof dutch oven or pot. Add the rice and saute until light golden brown. This should take approx 10 minutes (lots more if you are quadrupling it like I did). Make sure to stir often so the rice doesn't burn.</div>
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3. Stir in the garlic and the can of jalepenos. Cook until it smells like garlic & jalepenos (about 15 seconds). Add the pureed tomatoes/onion mixture, broth, tomato paste, salt and cilantro (if using dried). </div>
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Bring to a boil and then cover and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until all the liquid is dissolved and the rice is fully cooked. Be sure to stir after 15 minutes.</div>
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4. Fluff with a fork and add cilantro (if fresh) and add some fresh jalepenos, if desired. </div>
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-17349494770141668212011-01-08T11:30:00.000-08:002011-01-08T11:30:00.462-08:00GF Bread Crumbs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidy6PwwsfAo9-fd8uHDyORDB_vFX36tIVaJQJF9bm3aWwALjFzw2zsHY1AajJRxi0y08hDJpQwMLvvOYBaYB89ivTcoToGqcaLYwpuFTFneLbbccKexT8GMw8XSZeYSX8D2lBy23lfkr0S/s1600/2011-01-05_9480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidy6PwwsfAo9-fd8uHDyORDB_vFX36tIVaJQJF9bm3aWwALjFzw2zsHY1AajJRxi0y08hDJpQwMLvvOYBaYB89ivTcoToGqcaLYwpuFTFneLbbccKexT8GMw8XSZeYSX8D2lBy23lfkr0S/s320/2011-01-05_9480.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I finally solved the GF bread crumb dilemma. I know, after 3 years you think I would have figured this out before now. But here it is. Take Rice Chex or any other GF cereal, throw them in the food processor and process until crumbs. Then throw in a freezer bag and freeze for later use. Why didn't I think of this earlier?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheej_UnC31c-kUAmcCxoM4tMyMR173PBuxtHgAmSmyBl5zozod6lS9mU1Zh4tGufzGyc-__iWWJjk8rkf38TM5t9PxaYasratma5a29aU8gexZO79cF0v3gapXX_nufvsth3BNDLTrUcFR/s1600/2011-01-05_9477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheej_UnC31c-kUAmcCxoM4tMyMR173PBuxtHgAmSmyBl5zozod6lS9mU1Zh4tGufzGyc-__iWWJjk8rkf38TM5t9PxaYasratma5a29aU8gexZO79cF0v3gapXX_nufvsth3BNDLTrUcFR/s320/2011-01-05_9477.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-23318962158953925972011-01-06T11:49:00.000-08:002014-08-15T06:53:55.428-07:00Chicken Fajitas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We love fajitas. I use to use mixes, but of course, with the whole GF thing that is less of an option. I know there are GF mixes, but I must admilt I have come to enjoy making my own. I use a recipe from <i>The America's Test Kitchen Family Cookbook</i> which is one of my many cookbooks I LOVE.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #3d85c6;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chicken Fajitas </b><i style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">(printer friendly)</span></i><b><br />
</b></span></div>
2 chicken breast halves, sliced about a 1/2 inch<br />
2 T Veg Oil <br />
2 T lime juice<br />
salt & pepper to taste<br />
1 med onion, sliced thin<br />
1 green pepper, sliced thin*<br />
1 red pepper, sliced thin*<br />
1 tsp chili powder<br />
1 tsp cumin<br />
2-4 tsp water<br />
Corn Tortillas<br />
Sour Cream (opt)<br />
Guacamole (opt)<br />
Cheese (opt)<br />
<br />
1. Heat a large skillet on med-high heat. Add 1 T oil and swirl around pan. Add chicken and salt & pepper. Saute until cooked through and browned. Remove to a bowl and add lime juice. Toss to thoroughly coat.<br />
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2. In the skillet, add the remaining oil and add the onions and peppers, along with the chili powder and cumin along with salt and pepper to taste. Saute until the onions are soft and translucent. Add water as needed so they don't burn.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemo4viDX5ahdjmpv9vsujgFld5nVtN0Ov9C6jVUtbrQRqQHgFZl34aTk4nX9oLFe3ZwpvOn71LTTtWyztsntxms8FzBibtDZHT13ltum9X-N_zOUA7WFkc4kVoB-gfrn5RiupkK9SsaC4/s1600/2010-11-15_9058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemo4viDX5ahdjmpv9vsujgFld5nVtN0Ov9C6jVUtbrQRqQHgFZl34aTk4nX9oLFe3ZwpvOn71LTTtWyztsntxms8FzBibtDZHT13ltum9X-N_zOUA7WFkc4kVoB-gfrn5RiupkK9SsaC4/s400/2010-11-15_9058.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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3. Add chicken and stir until it all combined and the seasoning is evenly distributed.<br />
4. Serve on tortillas with sour cream, guacamole and cheese and any other toppings you desire.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-8061084913333412672011-01-06T11:23:00.000-08:002011-01-06T11:23:28.795-08:00Santa's WorkshopThis is what my parents always called their homemade projects prior to Christmas. "I am going to be doing Santa's Workshop" was a common phrase. Let's just say this year was big on Santa's workshop -- and I should add, low on house cleaning. My friend Valerie once said that "you can either have a clean house or do projects, you can't have both." While there are some that are organized enough to do both, I am not. Anyway, on to projects, almost all are inspired or direct copies of others, my very best skill.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> I have a BIL that is an IT person so I found these phrases at ThinkGeek.com and thought they'd be perfect for them. I then cut the vinyl with my Silhouette and put them on painted boards. I especially love the pixels one. Found a great dotted font and removed some of the dots.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiwUVcCeHNSQJKCXDrIV_rYpk0YBOql4bqMqQABSrOpOLnuPNgrX603CdD-rmY-XDGI0GWR-1A9gPF3xJK3SUtcBHqq9zs23TRs30A1S8fJ_RK3Z2zJBZuvmSFoqf05-zF7H-Edzr6SHw/s1600/2010-12-22_9439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiwUVcCeHNSQJKCXDrIV_rYpk0YBOql4bqMqQABSrOpOLnuPNgrX603CdD-rmY-XDGI0GWR-1A9gPF3xJK3SUtcBHqq9zs23TRs30A1S8fJ_RK3Z2zJBZuvmSFoqf05-zF7H-Edzr6SHw/s400/2010-12-22_9439.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We had a 3 year old cousin this year and when I saw this <a href="http://sewingin-nomansland.blogspot.com/2010/09/princess-and-pea-softie-toy-tutorial.html">Princess in the Pea </a>set at <a href="http://sewingin-nomansland.blogspot.com/">Sewing in No Man's Land </a>I knew I was making it for her. We are also using it as a learn to sew lesson since it is so simple. One note, don't fill the pillows too much or they don't stack as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaXqNu57Q9ytZ5xaPBMRTfeAQZqnKW4g05WMb8id-I7hijWq9dNYER1EjDbGZyKSXmaKtxOLyiTNOqgBTn07Wbo9gDnastC7NtPubdXu46T2Db8ZLVXpiHTEbUjdWw7pdaxgwptXa2hVZ/s1600/2010-12-22_9443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaXqNu57Q9ytZ5xaPBMRTfeAQZqnKW4g05WMb8id-I7hijWq9dNYER1EjDbGZyKSXmaKtxOLyiTNOqgBTn07Wbo9gDnastC7NtPubdXu46T2Db8ZLVXpiHTEbUjdWw7pdaxgwptXa2hVZ/s400/2010-12-22_9443.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vuYlfdAWF3T2M_IFWjtdRGJ1SJ5WiAEmhSyl95DRpIbwjhmVhq9fUjI-jNdwd5gOrYvLVGz4baCxPrFBsOBV9TGhgC1BfjqERQu2ucBpDiCI6oxfsNVbJpgj9dhAJ2gqYTXRN-pRX_oX/s1600/2010-12-22_9445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vuYlfdAWF3T2M_IFWjtdRGJ1SJ5WiAEmhSyl95DRpIbwjhmVhq9fUjI-jNdwd5gOrYvLVGz4baCxPrFBsOBV9TGhgC1BfjqERQu2ucBpDiCI6oxfsNVbJpgj9dhAJ2gqYTXRN-pRX_oX/s400/2010-12-22_9445.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I did these for my mom who decorates her Dining Room table for each month. I this could be a fun addition. I originally got the idea with the Along Came a Spider picture from a <a href="http://servingpinklemonade.blogspot.com/2010/10/along-came-spider.html">Halloween Print</a> at <a href="http://servingpinklemonade.blogspot.com/">Serving Pink Lemonade</a> and it went from there. Once again, I love my Silhouette.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXbR4dpHEQtGvA9M0ErZE1_Eb3YsIj6LefvMGY2tisgShhTBUoxp0z9VivpZymIao3hj37qZh_rLsrz-L6_WbTCNGUP0L27zjf_KYwOqbfU64TCt47-u7SyK3imqOqewet9jhPm9ohZRi/s1600/2010-12-22_9451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXbR4dpHEQtGvA9M0ErZE1_Eb3YsIj6LefvMGY2tisgShhTBUoxp0z9VivpZymIao3hj37qZh_rLsrz-L6_WbTCNGUP0L27zjf_KYwOqbfU64TCt47-u7SyK3imqOqewet9jhPm9ohZRi/s400/2010-12-22_9451.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I made one of these <a href="http://pick5.blogspot.com/2010/10/thanks-sally.html">Menu Boards</a> for me a while back and had a SIL and a sister that both mentioned they needed to figure out a way of doing menus so I made one for them, which was especially helpful since we had them for Christmas. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJjEPZSQIN7OaXOZKKgo8wiiw52DdxijuD_XWvRGdw9fWoFXdipJTwUDtVra0oLaqdHdP9OSPcd43g18NIMdhSnPMERg0YCZPIaKvI-duPw0c570GAQY5vIQ4BZHZ7pG7aaj39GDzFC3e/s1600/2010-12-22_9456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJjEPZSQIN7OaXOZKKgo8wiiw52DdxijuD_XWvRGdw9fWoFXdipJTwUDtVra0oLaqdHdP9OSPcd43g18NIMdhSnPMERg0YCZPIaKvI-duPw0c570GAQY5vIQ4BZHZ7pG7aaj39GDzFC3e/s400/2010-12-22_9456.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I also made them each a Family Home Evening Chart that I adapted from the <a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/chore-chart-for-multiple-kids">Chore Chart </a>at <a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/">How Does She</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDyuunOvHdUMYqZdGdds3k-iO0soNo62pvIi2Ab04qCMONYnSgLUiVSObEC2G_lVSrfLQXGcfk7WAcpgj8wEDXv9StFo1zhM6rSAAAZt_GSxdwpJHSjoR6TlaRis6S7bjsLbZ0iCIh9QB/s1600/2010-12-22_9458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDyuunOvHdUMYqZdGdds3k-iO0soNo62pvIi2Ab04qCMONYnSgLUiVSObEC2G_lVSrfLQXGcfk7WAcpgj8wEDXv9StFo1zhM6rSAAAZt_GSxdwpJHSjoR6TlaRis6S7bjsLbZ0iCIh9QB/s400/2010-12-22_9458.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13bZxLMwc_WCt3p6JKakuRfOXbA025mVQV2i2OxABlA6xgZAJ1BZY5bQXhyphenhyphent6ianHv291oqnZWAMEvAOXsWLpSodsHi6KTs1lLdPEYV7qqM3yaTGbc7mmvIDGY-_0TfDT5Mk4kEzsvmzk/s1600/2010-12-22_9462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13bZxLMwc_WCt3p6JKakuRfOXbA025mVQV2i2OxABlA6xgZAJ1BZY5bQXhyphenhyphent6ianHv291oqnZWAMEvAOXsWLpSodsHi6KTs1lLdPEYV7qqM3yaTGbc7mmvIDGY-_0TfDT5Mk4kEzsvmzk/s400/2010-12-22_9462.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And finally, (not including the Pj's and the Christmas Dresses) I made a <a href="http://www.u-createcrafts.com/2010/07/felt-fishing-set.html">felt fishing set</a> from <a href="http://www.u-createcrafts.com/">U Create</a> for both my nephews and one for my 18 month old. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3MCsefZz_PID8mvguUOvjCDjbA0WDQeLRais8V2wMo10bBKl9xIeZsCcZNMwbarzgQeOA6qLbGafzHXcfnCJRtcupzxArBviW2cUu2QUKCo9pUrqLu2KxEpn5U_W3HnngJyuiYr6eXQ13/s1600/2010-12-22_9465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3MCsefZz_PID8mvguUOvjCDjbA0WDQeLRais8V2wMo10bBKl9xIeZsCcZNMwbarzgQeOA6qLbGafzHXcfnCJRtcupzxArBviW2cUu2QUKCo9pUrqLu2KxEpn5U_W3HnngJyuiYr6eXQ13/s400/2010-12-22_9465.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>You'd think by now I'd be tired of sewing, but, honestly, now I just want to sew some more. Aprons? Cute skirts for my girls? The robes for my 2 oldest that I bought the fabric for and ran out of time to make. <br />
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That said, before I do anything, my sewing room HAS to be cleaned!!!Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-41494344441466752922010-11-15T20:04:00.000-08:002010-11-15T20:04:43.769-08:00Chocolate Carmeled Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYV2nWRVXIGudnGXLnt2T2sJPHtX2KVwq4ZCQS3cmQ3uqdSfIePuYOyvAW-QBjxnwxBSv2O1Oa-eLJPMIOliCCFrDpg0-nqib8vtYaOSM5SYAc2X7bE0ECChpaBw88pB7ABJp1ktPY9XlW/s1600/2010-11-15_9071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYV2nWRVXIGudnGXLnt2T2sJPHtX2KVwq4ZCQS3cmQ3uqdSfIePuYOyvAW-QBjxnwxBSv2O1Oa-eLJPMIOliCCFrDpg0-nqib8vtYaOSM5SYAc2X7bE0ECChpaBw88pB7ABJp1ktPY9XlW/s400/2010-11-15_9071.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I can not take credit for this recipe, my 7 year old son dreamed this up with his friend the other day and I came into the kitchen in the middle of them making it. I have to say, they came up with a delicious recipe. Basically, it is a twist on Rice Krispie treats. The name is also a result of my son as he named them.<br />
<div style="color: #073763;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b></div><b style="color: #073763;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Concoction</span></b> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=11-NkMaBo3Fcen7pBHsKfWlNa14pPlw1rFBpHc_M1wLw"><i>(printer friendly)</i></a><br />
4 C miniature marshmallows<br />
1 C chocolate chips<br />
10 caramels, unwrapped & quartered<br />
1/2 C coconut<br />
2 T butter<br />
5 C corn or rice check<br />
1/3 C whole almonds<br />
<br />
1. In a large microwave bowl combine the marshmallows, chocolate chips, caramels, coconut, and butter.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWVfjFQ-90m4LA8qagBkIDncpGf1Iz79NRRqExnz8AAVOpL2azilWCFJy1_KtZTmKxRqbAxL_gRy4no7CHZihWTq_BqH7LLKcLpqf9l8SrNwkCaUuETLeu30-5KAz-HZshti2npCzKmpu/s1600/2010-11-15_9064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWVfjFQ-90m4LA8qagBkIDncpGf1Iz79NRRqExnz8AAVOpL2azilWCFJy1_KtZTmKxRqbAxL_gRy4no7CHZihWTq_BqH7LLKcLpqf9l8SrNwkCaUuETLeu30-5KAz-HZshti2npCzKmpu/s400/2010-11-15_9064.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Microwave for about 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn't go over the bowl.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSkWXRdGeYhTL2X76P52U94_h2XCuYYQ3flAj0s5bs8tAAonhnmO2t-0uhVtmS6nuP3GsvaDAxdpRlYMfc4D7X2JKzndPmC7S9CLiVJc6d4so1CK3QhTVFbA-43anmyB1mhLYh3arXzbP/s1600/2010-11-15_9067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSkWXRdGeYhTL2X76P52U94_h2XCuYYQ3flAj0s5bs8tAAonhnmO2t-0uhVtmS6nuP3GsvaDAxdpRlYMfc4D7X2JKzndPmC7S9CLiVJc6d4so1CK3QhTVFbA-43anmyB1mhLYh3arXzbP/s400/2010-11-15_9067.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
2. Meanwhile, chop the almonds.<br />
3. When the marshmallow mixture is done, stir it and add the Chex. After it is mixed well, sprinkle with chopped almonds and stir again. <br />
4. Place spoonfuls on wax paper and allow them to cool (if you can wait that long). Makes about 2 doz.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-57351661211216404032010-11-07T18:14:00.000-08:002014-08-15T06:55:14.278-07:00Johnnycakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdZaMOJuTMEP03wJgEkoQmpD9nf6FE31HvHSWvegrsJBHO1q74XsCySFBFGBVZxZ_aSoA0DbHfRmqwrxArNqWh8RXgrmA58eHk-TfXS4zOQWIwppmdMLj8hn_xUNFoMbJhtQqssaj5wYs/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdZaMOJuTMEP03wJgEkoQmpD9nf6FE31HvHSWvegrsJBHO1q74XsCySFBFGBVZxZ_aSoA0DbHfRmqwrxArNqWh8RXgrmA58eHk-TfXS4zOQWIwppmdMLj8hn_xUNFoMbJhtQqssaj5wYs/s400/DSC_0005.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
For our kids birthdays we always get them a book. This year for my son, who is just starting chapter books, I found these <i>Magic Tree House</i>-like books called <i>The Enchanted Tunnel</i> series. It is an LDS (Mormon) series and the first book finds the brother and sister arriving on a pioneer trek. My son has LOVED this book. For him, one of the best parts is a recipe for "Johnnycakes." Pioneers often cooked these in the morning and then they would wrap them up in a handkerchief and put them in their pockets where they would stay warm. While not especially hygienic, they were practical for "fast food" on the long walk West. Since my son started the book the number of times he asked for me to make these is incalculable. Finally, I relented, and it was one of the best decisions I made.<br />
<br />
Basically, they are a cross between a Southern cornbread and a pancake. The first time we ate them we treated them like a pancake with butter and syrup. This time thought I thought we would branch out and offer pancake toppings and taco toppings, kind of a Navajo Taco without fry bread. Both ways are delicious. I then sent them as the bread for a sandwich the next day. I also think they would be great served plain, perhaps as a side in a meal. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;"><b>Johnnycakes</b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1HYuxATlpuuPWDo5zV4qFHadPH_9zDxuKDMlV6B6Pj-Y">(<i>printer friendly</i>)</a><br />
1 1/4 C flour mix<br />
3/4 C cornmeal<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 t xanthan gum<br />
1 egg beaten<br />
1 C milk (whatever kind you have)<br />
1/4 C melted butter (or oil)<br />
<br />
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, baking powder, and xanthan gum. In a separate bowl combine the egg, milk and melted butter. Add the egg mixture to the dry mixture and mix just until combined.<br />
2. Cook one of the following ways:<br />
--Pour into a greased 9x13 pan and bake on 400-degrees for 30 minutes<br />
--Heat a greased skillet (or griddle) on medium-high heat and pour 1/4 C batter for each "cake." Turn when the top looks bubbly.<br />
<br />
Here are photos of two of our favorite ways to eat them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5OLoQXlCyJJOWp_UPfgAq5DH3VU64-hfuM2GjPHGElVLY7xeNudE8fdX04EUm-6LIZaEreqJg83OJwntSC5TPft3BoouPwZ9246_W8Pc1Hvyjamu4tVQtvKoC9vH-Cut5tDi8ztrb3wK/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5OLoQXlCyJJOWp_UPfgAq5DH3VU64-hfuM2GjPHGElVLY7xeNudE8fdX04EUm-6LIZaEreqJg83OJwntSC5TPft3BoouPwZ9246_W8Pc1Hvyjamu4tVQtvKoC9vH-Cut5tDi8ztrb3wK/s400/DSC_0009.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Main Course</i></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyddnF-UhgH1SyScy8f1ETUX8X9Xb83DQMR_iz-8JV3T0sWIRBaQamCRsDKD55YK8MIs4GoVgdMFmob4XXkjUeF8MfPxGLb2Fk4k7v6SP7DRWf6P1xNDbWtOFhSGVG10anB1SdIXnnUel1/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyddnF-UhgH1SyScy8f1ETUX8X9Xb83DQMR_iz-8JV3T0sWIRBaQamCRsDKD55YK8MIs4GoVgdMFmob4XXkjUeF8MfPxGLb2Fk4k7v6SP7DRWf6P1xNDbWtOFhSGVG10anB1SdIXnnUel1/s320/DSC_0012.jpg" height="312" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Dessert</i></div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-13535845553584153012010-10-25T10:34:00.000-07:002014-08-15T06:56:31.258-07:00Choose Your Own Lettuce Wraps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9yG4yre24P073DM8x_Oeuu48NkrHdylFgNBL4SP-3FcVvpI2TRxhFSknzSeP9sVM-SCK3gnrdTkXzEoax82UZHNomBjy8rAiNStCmYBt8VRx5d1_1o36mzS8GYYTNuTAI-dn3JBd1nyM/s1600/2010-10-18_8834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9yG4yre24P073DM8x_Oeuu48NkrHdylFgNBL4SP-3FcVvpI2TRxhFSknzSeP9sVM-SCK3gnrdTkXzEoax82UZHNomBjy8rAiNStCmYBt8VRx5d1_1o36mzS8GYYTNuTAI-dn3JBd1nyM/s400/2010-10-18_8834.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
A while ago I was planning on making chicken tacos and got them almost made only to realize I didn't have tortillas or chips. Needless to say, I was annoyed. After searching the fridge, freezer and cupboards I found some Romain lettuce and decided to just use the lettuce as the "tortilla." They were wonderful, and I felt so healthy. That said, I have found that butter lettuce works a lot better, but Romain works in a pinch. The other night I decide to do a "clean out the fridge" and do lettuce wraps. It turned out wonderfully. I basically took anything and everything out of the fridge and cupboard that needed to be eaten, along with browning up some hamburger with onion and salt & pepper, although chicken or pork or no meat would work just as well, and set it all on the table.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QqMCVHKODDVCYtF_naLj2QohMKQr8SIH98UCee_P7-M4meLovDQb0anTG-htpiY9mpEbbSsk3sz-CWBuNAtMBqUrQxLxJUcmPkmhLfGLasyk8Tva-R96YQ8zLzBj1g2A26pam6ZzuGgM/s1600/2010-10-18_8812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QqMCVHKODDVCYtF_naLj2QohMKQr8SIH98UCee_P7-M4meLovDQb0anTG-htpiY9mpEbbSsk3sz-CWBuNAtMBqUrQxLxJUcmPkmhLfGLasyk8Tva-R96YQ8zLzBj1g2A26pam6ZzuGgM/s400/2010-10-18_8812.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I know the table looks crazy!</i></div>
We then all sat down at put together whatever looked like a yummy combination. Often, one of us would come up with a good idea and we would all copy. It was such a fun, quick, and easy meal, and now my fridge is cleaned out.<br />
<br />
Basically just put the ingredients in the middle of the lettuce and roll it up and enjoy<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsuuM-C_JoXiKmr6QG-iABFN90Ngju5BaPirJKfAji5I3sFYimgodz6jrn0JyOJX7Qc2mOFtvGfE5YVTAw7XuZ2gDNvR8K1CzWry7rcrU0MXt8pXEliSEL1EabWdrVFRAPHrJekTLvqSv3/s1600/2010-10-18_8835.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsuuM-C_JoXiKmr6QG-iABFN90Ngju5BaPirJKfAji5I3sFYimgodz6jrn0JyOJX7Qc2mOFtvGfE5YVTAw7XuZ2gDNvR8K1CzWry7rcrU0MXt8pXEliSEL1EabWdrVFRAPHrJekTLvqSv3/s400/2010-10-18_8835.jpg" height="208" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are a few of our favorites: <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=19msSeM9cPLk7VkZTNnkk4vNSmSJhtfQfQ-AAzNXNrfE">(Printer Friendly Recipe)</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJH7mIAYmkeyDQsZ7hCodL4ZO7qUihO7epCaJGUpuwgLfmC6s-aMqnp1Egnkff6burReCgsyHFNO6oJ6LRR_8FQZQxN3jBJvOS9N15g7iAVu-A8fWrMDDMWFDJLCEEKx1mkM-Qe9rihba/s1600/2010-10-18_8831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJH7mIAYmkeyDQsZ7hCodL4ZO7qUihO7epCaJGUpuwgLfmC6s-aMqnp1Egnkff6burReCgsyHFNO6oJ6LRR_8FQZQxN3jBJvOS9N15g7iAVu-A8fWrMDDMWFDJLCEEKx1mkM-Qe9rihba/s400/2010-10-18_8831.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Mexican Wrap</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
hamburger</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
onions</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
tomatoes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
fritos</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
corn </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
taco sauce</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sour cream</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7lJCUq0_cqf4tEy7WwVJuJ5mb0zJe1JwKn5VmUp5pvj5LsFemKcSZl3J1FPnhbSHc9v-U-1FjytYJdIE7igo8vQcguBkQ67CHOIMs6_650YbmuC3Na3IASwXJilCIBfxG0WWgkI82MIQC/s1600/2010-10-18_8834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7lJCUq0_cqf4tEy7WwVJuJ5mb0zJe1JwKn5VmUp5pvj5LsFemKcSZl3J1FPnhbSHc9v-U-1FjytYJdIE7igo8vQcguBkQ67CHOIMs6_650YbmuC3Na3IASwXJilCIBfxG0WWgkI82MIQC/s400/2010-10-18_8834.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Asian Wrap</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
hamburger</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
onion</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
red pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
cabbage</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
rice</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
soy sauce</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
chinese noodles (I realize they aren't GF but this was my plate, and I added them)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKpfj7hEzP-ac233V-QFH7Phiy3ZW27tQO9BgJJEg6w4EozmY8fJBdaOb1GRjuaFucOUz4OnZrY5SV7MrxjMCMS3zHdq2CA0x7Dhc1Bd5Zmp9l38HGUTnXiOjKhLk8RqRSAiEw5mSaD5j/s1600/2010-10-18_8836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKpfj7hEzP-ac233V-QFH7Phiy3ZW27tQO9BgJJEg6w4EozmY8fJBdaOb1GRjuaFucOUz4OnZrY5SV7MrxjMCMS3zHdq2CA0x7Dhc1Bd5Zmp9l38HGUTnXiOjKhLk8RqRSAiEw5mSaD5j/s320/2010-10-18_8836.jpg" height="149" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Pizza Wrap</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Turkey Pepperoni</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
hamburger</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mozarella cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wa7qWaqB2_HlVUGduPZzjbEd-zByEgff2v0ay9ISIcZJeE3LpZCNIBJ1YELW9L3vR1sJnxmxU0fXUwmJoLHQZCdoj5hKCGet7dvwL4mJIzB9LiMOYx_vqiESeVYAuJIRhqPA5jaoZhFB/s1600/2010-10-18_8840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wa7qWaqB2_HlVUGduPZzjbEd-zByEgff2v0ay9ISIcZJeE3LpZCNIBJ1YELW9L3vR1sJnxmxU0fXUwmJoLHQZCdoj5hKCGet7dvwL4mJIzB9LiMOYx_vqiESeVYAuJIRhqPA5jaoZhFB/s400/2010-10-18_8840.jpg" height="347" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Veggie Wrap</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tomatoes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
cabbage</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Onion</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Corn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Red Peppers</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxTMHEHXaNorcavghdZtTL74M7bzcG5oiTlm8oM0aV2ktlsxxjO8uWmZHHPzrHY0di5NimcYaRcCanBF8iVoksijmUFaOdHO6EGs6PKOph2XvnMVDtAZu6QhSLEm6HxSLDDt3IZEgKNYw/s1600/2010-10-18_8843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxTMHEHXaNorcavghdZtTL74M7bzcG5oiTlm8oM0aV2ktlsxxjO8uWmZHHPzrHY0di5NimcYaRcCanBF8iVoksijmUFaOdHO6EGs6PKOph2XvnMVDtAZu6QhSLEm6HxSLDDt3IZEgKNYw/s320/2010-10-18_8843.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Spicy BBQ</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hamburger</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mozzarella Cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Corn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fritos</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A1 Sauce</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Green Taco Sauce</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvrtZAHpDDvHlkNGZpb8R8u52gv9LkaA6LA_l0MpnGQtLJnbTj84Ex2vguA8XKHl7CN0PqTHmSaHaNJL8FKKUWisnbhJFyaAerL4fwQEIwstlz0c7hv8G0lT1SxHdkQbzMgv8sfrGlmhs/s1600/2010-10-18_8844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvrtZAHpDDvHlkNGZpb8R8u52gv9LkaA6LA_l0MpnGQtLJnbTj84Ex2vguA8XKHl7CN0PqTHmSaHaNJL8FKKUWisnbhJFyaAerL4fwQEIwstlz0c7hv8G0lT1SxHdkQbzMgv8sfrGlmhs/s320/2010-10-18_8844.jpg" height="264" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Coconut Shrimp</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Coconut</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cooked Shrimp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I must admit this wasn't my favorite, I think I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I had had Cocktail Sauce -- Next Time</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
So next time you have lots of leftovers grab some lettuce and get wrapping!</div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-57719337418138448042010-10-18T09:36:00.000-07:002014-08-15T06:57:24.557-07:00Bacon Wrapped Chicken with Tomato and Onion Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgVfP2qPLsVVKarIK3r8iiXLvcem8G7dDrjCFg2dEktvCV0ezia8-40aDpaEpj4X1bnXlw6Ns-6x2j6PjqQu61Y2UIJTKC0MhO-fMGf_iAuIFesTdhDyY_HhHUBX2CnN63CMNEuamdIyI/s1600/DSC_0600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgVfP2qPLsVVKarIK3r8iiXLvcem8G7dDrjCFg2dEktvCV0ezia8-40aDpaEpj4X1bnXlw6Ns-6x2j6PjqQu61Y2UIJTKC0MhO-fMGf_iAuIFesTdhDyY_HhHUBX2CnN63CMNEuamdIyI/s400/DSC_0600.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
Okay, I know your mouth is watering. I know mine is just from seeing the picture. You really should make this, especially since you can actually find yummy tomatoes right now -- Mine are from my garden, oh, how I love my garden (My husband's more precisely since I don't do much, but prepare food from it, but marriage is about sharing so it is mine - right). Make this -- TONIGHT. It is so easy it is almost scary. The recipe is from Rachel Ray's "Chicken Clubs" in her <i>30 Minute Meals</i> cookbook and when I found it I didn't have bacon and I was so disappointed the rest of the night that the minute I got bacon it was the first thing I made for dinner. It is meant to be a sandwich, which is how about 1/2 my family ate it as, but my daughter just wanted it without bread so it is easily eaten wrapped in lettuce.<br />
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
</b></span></div>
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>Bacon Wrapped Chicken with Tomato Salad</b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1Pwyp2BcHYjuK2XSixiBvEnCjA31k6qX_aCPxORSnJqE"><i>(printer friendly recipe)</i></a><br />
8 slices bacon<br />
4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (I used 1/2 breasts)<br />
4 toothpicks<br />
Tomato & Onion Salad (recipe below) <br />
Romain or Bibb lettuce <br />
Toasted buns, or toasted bread<br />
<br />
<br />
Pound the breasts so they are uniform thickness. Criss Cross two pieces of bacon and place the chicken in the middle and wrap the bacon around it (like you do a ribbon on a present) Secure with a tooth pick. Heat either a griddle to medium high or an outdoor grill to medium or medium low and cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through. While the chicken cooks make the Tomato and Onion Salad. When the chicken is cooked make a sandwich with the chicken and salad, wrap it in a lettuce leaf, or just sprinkle the salad over the top of the chicken and enjoy.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Tomato & Onion Salad</b></div>
3 tomatoes, thinly sliced into rings<br />
1/4 medium onion, minced<br />
handful of chopped, fresh parsley or 1 tsp of dried<br />
1/2 tsp dried chervil (opt. but yummy)<br />
Salt & pepper to taste<br />
About 1 T olive oil<br />
<br />
1. Mix all ingredients together and let sit until chicken is done.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-56267675090481604662010-10-17T19:58:00.000-07:002010-10-17T19:58:20.549-07:00InspirationAs you can see, I have been doing a little organizing of my blog. As such, I have found tons of food inspiration which I have been sorely lacking. There were a few times I wanted to hop up and start cooking something (<a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/11/cookie-dough-brownies.html">Cookie Dough Brownies</a> anyone?) only to realize that would defeat the purpose of sitting here to organize. I hope this helps you find some inspiration too.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-44224797286619480932010-10-11T10:08:00.000-07:002014-08-15T06:58:23.751-07:00Sweet & Sour Meatballs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ikppFtSvcc2o4-bQs6bMyfXaVsSbkHUFP7ZTMFHnn2vmD_b38glF2JUd3g6zDFuo6F39iAT73j29EBYDS1Vtm0OkHNQ6eLZtJ06HJb43TCnG9jxfBlo4B9XjtNeK5412SiVSQBDLJnwM/s1600/2010-07-21_7578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ikppFtSvcc2o4-bQs6bMyfXaVsSbkHUFP7ZTMFHnn2vmD_b38glF2JUd3g6zDFuo6F39iAT73j29EBYDS1Vtm0OkHNQ6eLZtJ06HJb43TCnG9jxfBlo4B9XjtNeK5412SiVSQBDLJnwM/s400/2010-07-21_7578.jpg" height="325" width="400" /></a></div>
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I posted last week a recipe for <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/10/meatballs.html">meatballs</a>. Here is one way to use them that we LOVE!!!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: large;"><b>Sweet & Sour Meatballs</b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1IMlzJOp4A1SIywtWSVlMDBsGpadIzWq7Oh1pehyygYM"><i>(printer friendly recipe)</i></a><br />
1 C sugar (brown or white, your preference)<br />
2 Tbsp Corn Starch<br />
1/2 C Ketchup<br />
1 20 oz can pineapple tidbits, including juice<br />
Approx 20 <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/10/meatballs.html">Meatballs </a><br />
Rice or noodles <br />
<br />
In a medium saucepan combine ingredients and about 20 meatballs over med heat. Bring to a simmer and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve over rice or noodles. Makes enough for 6 people.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-90613793302054319822010-10-07T10:29:00.000-07:002014-08-15T06:59:11.568-07:00Aloha Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtx0T_oiG_f9ybpxP8XW0irjrKEcAMnLrERAc06NaiuvkGZnP3s7a8yG8bXEL0POIzKL0R3d4GnCY90N8Nguulv615Z3yQB81Z7pqkH9i7LhrwNawnPwAge9a_3O0CPPewquj0okgEGO1E/s1600/DSC_0604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtx0T_oiG_f9ybpxP8XW0irjrKEcAMnLrERAc06NaiuvkGZnP3s7a8yG8bXEL0POIzKL0R3d4GnCY90N8Nguulv615Z3yQB81Z7pqkH9i7LhrwNawnPwAge9a_3O0CPPewquj0okgEGO1E/s400/DSC_0604.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></div>
I love sweet breads, with the exception of fruit cake, I have yet to find one I don't love. When I found some 1/2 dead bananas at the store the other day I immediately thought, I NEED banana bread. So I bought some thinking I had enough for a GF batch and a regular. OOPS, only enough for one batch -- who knew banana bread takes so many bananas. So I went looking for something else to do with the bananas, because I didn't want my daughter to go without, or for us to eat all her treats.<br />
<br />
I was looking in my <i>Lion House Desserts</i> cookbook which I LOVE. On a side note these recipes are wonderful and since The Lion House is a restaurant in Salt Lake City all the recipes are created for high altitudes, which if you live in Albuquerque is a must. I really need to get all their cookbooks because they are fabulous! I have already adapted others for to be gluten free like their <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/01/doughnut-balls.html">doughnut balls</a> (which we had for an after-school snack yesterday), <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/08/butter-pecan-squares.html">butter-pecan squares</a>, or their wonderful, egg-free <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/07/divine-chocolate-pudding.html">chocolate pudding</a>. In case you are wondering, I plan to continue until just about every recipe has a GF version written to the side of it! <br />
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Anyway, they had this recipe which called for just 1 C of mushed banana and then added pineapple, pecans, and coconut -- which if you've seen my carrot cake recipe you know is the trifecta of goodness so this recipe was just begging to be made. After a little consideration I adapted it for GF and here it is. I personally think it turned out fabulous and my daughter ate a whole loaf herself in about 2 days. She loved it toasted for breakfast, and as an after school snack, in her lunch, etc. I have some left in freezer that is waiting for me to surprise her with later.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #e69138;">Aloha Bread</span></b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1cnIJNjZtRsGZPxykAChfOFdCZCV1eZIBjHmqQlCyJ9E"><i>(printer friendly version)</i></a><br />
1 C butter<br />
<i></i>2 C sugar<br />
5 eggs<br />
1 C mashed bananas<br />
4 C GF flour mix<br />
2 tsp xanthan gum<br />
3 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp soda<br />
3/4 tsp salt<br />
1 20-oz can crushed pineapple, drained<br />
3/4 C chopped pecan<br />
1 C coconut<br />
<br />
1. Preheat oven to 325. Grease 2 large 9x5-inch loaf pans and set aside. In a medium size bowl mix the flour, xanthan gum, baking powder, soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and beat well. Stir in the bananas. Add dry ingredients and blend well but do not over mix or else there will be tunnels and a coarse texture. Add pineapple, pecans and coconut and mix together on low until blended. Pour into the prepared pans (they should be about 2/3 full, use a 3rd pan or make muffins if necessary and cook a little less). Bake for 60-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in pans about 15 minutes and then dump onto a cooling rack to finish cooling.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-26886347609187472802010-10-07T09:36:00.000-07:002014-08-15T06:59:38.599-07:00Sauteed Veggies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAK6MstM5nqR5IDMbgIud4uBD_SiXTTo9LdSX7-yFk4Cqxt4qMfGytGh5sziTRndOG4beCjHrDcHyBy6FBV6Ax2dASrM0rwQslQTjVTdUPO2LXmV-w9YlCxjVtEqrohKr0mUPMk2mXrZq/s1600/Sauteed-Veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAK6MstM5nqR5IDMbgIud4uBD_SiXTTo9LdSX7-yFk4Cqxt4qMfGytGh5sziTRndOG4beCjHrDcHyBy6FBV6Ax2dASrM0rwQslQTjVTdUPO2LXmV-w9YlCxjVtEqrohKr0mUPMk2mXrZq/s400/Sauteed-Veggies.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
The other night I was trying to figure out what to cook. I wasn't really in the mood to cook and since it was the end of the month we were low on supplies and I was trying to be good and not buy anything. So after rumaging through my fridge I found 3 large baked potatoes from a previous dinner in the fridge and decided to add some other veggies to them and fry them up with a little seasoning. It was delicious. I was afraid I would miss the hamburger which is something I often fry with leftover baked potatoes, but I didn't. I think we will be eating this more often.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><b>Sauteed Veggies</b></span><i> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1QqiawWhv2paiJnHbojukVRSp00I8agQEZtBrC7EJpw0">(printer friendly version)</a></i><br />
1 T bacon grease (optional, but adds a great flavor you could just sub butter)<br />
1 T butter<br />
4 carrots, sliced<br />
3 slices of onions cut into 6ths (see photo below)<br />
1/2 green pepper, chopped<br />
2 large or 3-4 small/med baked potatoes<br />
salt & pepper to taste<br />
1/2 tsp garlic salt<br />
1/4 tsp smoked paprika<br />
1/8 tsp cumin<br />
<br />
1. In a large fry pan or skillet melt bacon grease and butter. Add carrots and sautee for about 5 minutes.<br />
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Add onion<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc777vh3PPfIm6wFwMrxOKk_snDNzWXOycN6hf2PwfbuDvt6bUuc5xz1_1nhsxCAR-uNHmfXqyBIFLr3FHtbQk00JJJLM79hKGCkFCR1d0QyZCcIOXoGsSDmtfyH63oq2ld7iOnaLnOIgw/s1600/2010-10-02_8630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc777vh3PPfIm6wFwMrxOKk_snDNzWXOycN6hf2PwfbuDvt6bUuc5xz1_1nhsxCAR-uNHmfXqyBIFLr3FHtbQk00JJJLM79hKGCkFCR1d0QyZCcIOXoGsSDmtfyH63oq2ld7iOnaLnOIgw/s400/2010-10-02_8630.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">one slice cut into sixths</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;"><br />
</span></div>
and green pepper and cook until onion is soft. Add potatoes<br />
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and seasonings.<br />
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Cook until all heated through and some of the veggies are slightly crispy brown. Enjoy as the main dish of dinner with bread or as a side. It would be yummy with meatloaf don't you think. Hmmmm I think I need to buy some hamburger and make meatloaf now.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-13701757042763652952010-10-04T09:53:00.000-07:002014-08-15T06:58:11.364-07:00MeatballsThis is a recipe we love. My mom created it and it is delicious. I have to admit it may not be as moist as some since it doesn't have bread crumbs, but that is why I like it. It is too much of a pain to come up with good GF breadcrumbs. You can enjoy these with anything you might put meatballs on. I will occasionally be posting some recipes that use these. If you want to use turkey instead of beef I imagine it would work, however you might want to add a little olive oil since turkey can be so lean. If you want to make the meatballs more Italian flavored the adaptation is listed at the end. I've been thinking of coming up with other flavored meatballs, such as Mexican that you could make a sandwich with or soup etc. If you have any ideas for other flavored meatballs or recipes to use them in let me know.<br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;"><b>Meatballs</b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1SY8opQiZrxZ444jW4mPRhqOzFo4-ijITqRevmAAv88w"><i>(printer friendly recipe)</i></a><br />
<i>approx 12 per 1/2 lb of meat</i><br />
<br />
1 1/2 lbs ground beef<br />
2 Tbsp minced onion<br />
2 Tbs minced green pepper<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/4 tsp pepper<br />
Mix ingredients together until mixed well<br />
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Mold into small balls about 1" in diameter<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Horrid photo I know but you get the idea. I love Cookie scoops for this!</i></div>
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Place on a greased pan<br />
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Bake at 375-degrees for 30 minutes. Allow to cool and then place in a freezer bag for later use.<br />
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<div style="color: #20124d;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Italian Meatballs </b></span></div>
follow the above recipe, but add the following to the ingredients before you mix them together.<br />
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1 T dried Italian Seasoning<br />
3 cloves of garlic mincedNataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-51160006987023527592010-09-27T09:42:00.000-07:002014-08-15T07:00:30.963-07:00Biscuits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNXOC77QrgNA4mOXYZG36lpCju8zaIB-5ODdjXgpHM9VZE69bJOp8gj_TdDhZiIbngYRhF4cvFgXHiZ-2HQ39-2PQnHO1oMecatdoG9XYgskyThWvCeZJsO7UA38WOKkHMzwaLCxd0pFE/s1600/2010-07-14_7614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNXOC77QrgNA4mOXYZG36lpCju8zaIB-5ODdjXgpHM9VZE69bJOp8gj_TdDhZiIbngYRhF4cvFgXHiZ-2HQ39-2PQnHO1oMecatdoG9XYgskyThWvCeZJsO7UA38WOKkHMzwaLCxd0pFE/s640/2010-07-14_7614.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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We love biscuits at our house, as I'm sure you do at yours too. We had vegetable soup the other night and biscuits were a must. I really like Carol Fenster's recipe in her <i>Wheat Free Recipes & Menus </i>book. It is just perfect, a few more ingredients than regular baking powder biscuits, but worth it.<br />
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"><b>Carol Fenster's Biscuits</b></span> <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1kMIwu0FRoRPg9PBmb_2JQwM6genrJJ45wqHF2y0ee08"><i>(printer friendly recipe)</i></a><br />
1 C rice flour blend<br />
1/2 C cornstarch<br />
1 T sugar<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp xanthan gum*<br />
1 tsp guar gum*<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/4 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp shortening<br />
1/2 C milk (or substitute)<br />
1 egg (or equivalent)<br />
White rice flour, for dusting<br />
<br />
1. Preheat oven to 350-degrees (375 works best for me, so see what is best for you) and grease a large cookie sheet.<br />
2. Combine the flour, cornstarch sugar, baking powder, xanthan & guar gum, salt and baking soda in a food processor and pulse a couple times to combine (or place in a large bowl and whisk until combined). Add shortening and pulse until the mixture as the texture of large bread crumbs (or cut in the shortening until the appropriate texture is reached).<br />
3. Combine milk & egg and add to the flour mixture and process until it forms a ball (or use a fork and stir until the same thing happens). If for some reason, you don't get a ball, add 1 tbsp of water at a time until it does. The dough should be soft.<br />
4. Lightly flour the countertop or the cookie sheet or I prefer a <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/09/rolling-mat.html">rolling mat</a>. <br />
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Place dough on surface and turn over so both sides are floured.<br />
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Roll or pat the dough to a 3/4" thickness and cut into 2" circles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkpoIsx5tykgTEZ8Fs_F1vTgnni__mfSJzsWP-UfvFamJA0GOV3rOQgF337oAClx2Z71gr8u1qXHZcxjs2aNFWpOiMCQMaE-dsPt2rkMveG5G2CXsA6cHYhdsmsAGsRsVNg2v9Nue2yI2/s1600/2010-07-14_7591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkpoIsx5tykgTEZ8Fs_F1vTgnni__mfSJzsWP-UfvFamJA0GOV3rOQgF337oAClx2Z71gr8u1qXHZcxjs2aNFWpOiMCQMaE-dsPt2rkMveG5G2CXsA6cHYhdsmsAGsRsVNg2v9Nue2yI2/s400/2010-07-14_7591.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I have never had a biscuit cutter, I just use a cup and it works perfectly</i></div>
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Reshape leftover dough and pat again to a 3/4" thickness and cut again, repeat until dough is used. I usually take the last bits and form into a biscuit. It is ugly and not as soft, but it still tastes good.<br />
5. Place biscuits on cookie sheet next to each other<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigy8WrBMadzqPx85LGh-8KvD484vWTuVs-djAh8AIEUDwhdGRDsNX2e7l-DB70XuycXJkelIP6DCzI0OmbrO_w-301nSYyFpDYr0D2NIjF__4siwVRn254QDp6B6XHUS63t0u91LOdgxmv/s1600/2010-07-14_7607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigy8WrBMadzqPx85LGh-8KvD484vWTuVs-djAh8AIEUDwhdGRDsNX2e7l-DB70XuycXJkelIP6DCzI0OmbrO_w-301nSYyFpDYr0D2NIjF__4siwVRn254QDp6B6XHUS63t0u91LOdgxmv/s400/2010-07-14_7607.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You can see my hand formed one on the bottom of the photo.</i></div>
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6. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until lightly brown. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool slightly. Then enjoy!<br />
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-13633117261924876322010-09-27T09:39:00.000-07:002010-09-27T12:13:18.255-07:00Rolling MatA few years ago (before Celiacs entered our lives) my sister made me a rolling mat for Christmas. I have loved it, although I have been meaning to make a bigger one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4uRUhDDem5dlV6Qx5zhj81nMPR0NMSGI_5DRfE_nmR0oUuaD2RK1tA9JsQRviI5RZVsOk4wvUar5i3FGOr6CY87tt-MmPqp8vh28Blo82kfrJnruIRaL40J9Cow-70wGeQfna9JuV0VZ/s1600/2010-06-29_7347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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Basically you use it to roll out pie crust, biscuits, cinnamon rolls, rolls, cookies, etc. I have loved using it and not having to clean the flour off my counter. When you are done you shake the excess flour off and fold it up and put it in the freezer for next time. Wonderful! I usually only wash it when I make things like Cinnamon rolls and get cinnamon & sugar on it, or if oil gets on it, which is usually about once or twice a year, which may seem like it is not enough, but the point is that the more you use it the more the flour gets in the mat and the less flour you have to use in the future, it is great!<br />
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Since my daughter was diagnosed 3 years ago I have been meaning to make me a GF one. And since we moved earlier this year into a home with tile countertops I knew the time had come. Let's just say that rolling things out on tile is for the birds, and crazy people. I first went to Jo-Ann's and bought some duck cloth. I had planned on buying cream colored but they were out. Which was just as well, since I wouldn't have bought pink instead. And I love the fact that the pink is stark contrast to the cream and I won't get them confused on accident (which I have been known to do more than once).<br />
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So first I soaked the cloth in the hottest water I could get out of my tap for about 30 minutes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4uRUhDDem5dlV6Qx5zhj81nMPR0NMSGI_5DRfE_nmR0oUuaD2RK1tA9JsQRviI5RZVsOk4wvUar5i3FGOr6CY87tt-MmPqp8vh28Blo82kfrJnruIRaL40J9Cow-70wGeQfna9JuV0VZ/s1600/2010-06-29_7347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4uRUhDDem5dlV6Qx5zhj81nMPR0NMSGI_5DRfE_nmR0oUuaD2RK1tA9JsQRviI5RZVsOk4wvUar5i3FGOr6CY87tt-MmPqp8vh28Blo82kfrJnruIRaL40J9Cow-70wGeQfna9JuV0VZ/s400/2010-06-29_7347.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The green was going to be for my non-GF bigger version, unfortunately I was about 1/4 yard short</i></div><br />
Then I dried it on the highest setting of my drier.<br />
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I then measured the depth of my countertop and used that measurement to cut the fabric to a square that would fit nicely on the counter. Then I got bias tape that matched <a href="http://sewastraightline.blogspot.com/2010/03/bit-bias.html">(I ended up making my own)</a> and pinned it around the edge.<br />
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I then sewed the bias tape all around the mat. folding the end under where the two ends of the tape meet.<br />
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And voile, I'm done!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUUxPoCB-qDF6DAIP-iWNNyMB_WC48fKB8c9Pb6Rh_2f9WAZwleeUtv0EblK-Czr3iZmGK_vsG51fwPaOnXp-HogJDy-qO3bb7jRbi-z407NNlceAXFOFvfhKnzd0KtrnwVFlMsEJ5rq8/s1600/2010-07-01_7333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUUxPoCB-qDF6DAIP-iWNNyMB_WC48fKB8c9Pb6Rh_2f9WAZwleeUtv0EblK-Czr3iZmGK_vsG51fwPaOnXp-HogJDy-qO3bb7jRbi-z407NNlceAXFOFvfhKnzd0KtrnwVFlMsEJ5rq8/s400/2010-07-01_7333.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Don't look too close since I decided not to worry about perfectly straight seams or binding, I was just throwing it together.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">When you are done using it just fold it up and place in the freezer (mine fits in a quart size Ziploc freezer bag.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4Cc-oznc_SzglE_vlQcb8OslEJ6tAxrlncStPXouT_etAPX0TZjI9lo_hg6KJcyRwcvubYN0n51UYn7aKBj2kTD8OT13MJ9OnZtlYic75KIxzt2zB84QfxWqImw0yGC1j8HGEssHRbxL/s1600/2010-07-14_7597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4Cc-oznc_SzglE_vlQcb8OslEJ6tAxrlncStPXouT_etAPX0TZjI9lo_hg6KJcyRwcvubYN0n51UYn7aKBj2kTD8OT13MJ9OnZtlYic75KIxzt2zB84QfxWqImw0yGC1j8HGEssHRbxL/s400/2010-07-14_7597.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My 2 mats, size by side. My happiness is overflowing. </i><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are some recipes that this would work great for:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2010/09/we-love-biscuits-at-our-house-as-im.html"><i>Biscuits</i></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/10/twisty-kind-of-cheese-sticks.html"><i>Twisty Sticks</i></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/05/navajo-tacos.html"><i>Navajo Tacos</i></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i> <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/10/mini-turnovers-pies.html">Mini Pies & Turnovers</a></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2008/11/mini-pies.html"><i>Vinegar Pastry</i></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/04/ham-chicken-roll-ups.html"><i>Ham & Chicken Roll-Ups</i></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/08/soft-sugar-cookies.html"><i>Soft Sugar Cookies</i></a></div></div>Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-88863566951988098792010-07-10T11:10:00.000-07:002010-07-10T11:10:00.880-07:00Don't Wake the Baby!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0ylnqkYnxsoJSFdO-S5tApthUKGV_eXMwBXdCMw1LAhLEDUXTw1Yq0pDxYeg7yIO_aitzEw8Nh5DOotuBEzBwuCU4WqmnO7Eax7U7hhUtTPStMFpv_C_vGfs0H4qbTJm1LehAfsNMZS8/s1600/2010-06-30_7346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0ylnqkYnxsoJSFdO-S5tApthUKGV_eXMwBXdCMw1LAhLEDUXTw1Yq0pDxYeg7yIO_aitzEw8Nh5DOotuBEzBwuCU4WqmnO7Eax7U7hhUtTPStMFpv_C_vGfs0H4qbTJm1LehAfsNMZS8/s400/2010-06-30_7346.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
My 1 year old and my 6 year old boys share a bedroom. For the most part this isn't a problem, except when the 1 year old is taking a nap and the 6 year old feels he must go in and doesn't pay attention to whether the baby is sleeping or not. The other day when he had been woken <i>AGAIN</i> I had had enough so I made a sign. I cut 3 1x2's 6" long and glued them together with wood glue. Then I painted them with craft glue and used my new Silhouette SD (which I am in LOVE with) and cut some vinyl lettering. Then I drilled 2 holes and tied a ribbon to hang. Now the kids know when the door is shut because the baby is sleeping and that there will be consequences for opening the door.<br />
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I do have some GF stuff to blog I just have to finish a few pictures. Let's just say I finally made a tool that I have been wanting for 3 years that will make my GF baking easier.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-81525968748718710502010-07-08T11:08:00.000-07:002010-07-08T11:08:19.432-07:00Why I LOVE my fridge!Last year we bought a new fridge and my #1 criteria: I had to be able to put a cookie sheet with <a href="http://creatingfromscratch.blogspot.com/2009/08/fruit-pizza.html">Fruit Pizza</a> easily inside without a lot of shifting and leveling. I realize this is a strange criteria. Afterall, I generally only make fruit pizza once or twice a year. Nevertheless, when I need the space I need the space. So I recently made fruit pizza and once again fell in love with my fridge.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiht8WMNr5HRvCukOZjDg-S0m4W4jgrvDwGEu8Xd4iaWqfHFLsEqO7Lw6Q0i37i1X3chyphenhyphenLiwNujKt6hosdQvLmnpqx4BckEzxksR54tgZg5qzE-U5wFxH6QwCVzYlggLZHJ_umEL9BKfBpg/s1600/2010-07-05_7149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiht8WMNr5HRvCukOZjDg-S0m4W4jgrvDwGEu8Xd4iaWqfHFLsEqO7Lw6Q0i37i1X3chyphenhyphenLiwNujKt6hosdQvLmnpqx4BckEzxksR54tgZg5qzE-U5wFxH6QwCVzYlggLZHJ_umEL9BKfBpg/s400/2010-07-05_7149.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>And closer:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwJpvR_DBAfd4adMW-gL6cmy9EM1NYRQK-mym-yeTnbMC18-im2KyPRXKblqK9rOJttN9mdLGAIrgrUgC45sUjSv4U_fcsVh7ptZfYDTczlqV2UMf9hmWozhTShDS6us8-q-I1-vrkCyK/s1600/2010-07-05_7151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwJpvR_DBAfd4adMW-gL6cmy9EM1NYRQK-mym-yeTnbMC18-im2KyPRXKblqK9rOJttN9mdLGAIrgrUgC45sUjSv4U_fcsVh7ptZfYDTczlqV2UMf9hmWozhTShDS6us8-q-I1-vrkCyK/s400/2010-07-05_7151.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mmmm I think i need to make another one!</div>Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-21546731208871214022010-07-01T13:47:00.000-07:002014-08-15T07:01:29.047-07:00Shepherd's Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJx3-aoXwkAO0_iM-NmKGlHIUF_IhYNEEFJesIHNUr3uDS0fgBdA_bThwSaXXgxm4u4Fx_NhBuJo2FFRLC-xL3sbuyCNoEc9z39eKBTIW4lg1Ui8RiDM3WVnxUq-AB35rY8tRyYYuPobs/s1600/2010-05-03_6765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJx3-aoXwkAO0_iM-NmKGlHIUF_IhYNEEFJesIHNUr3uDS0fgBdA_bThwSaXXgxm4u4Fx_NhBuJo2FFRLC-xL3sbuyCNoEc9z39eKBTIW4lg1Ui8RiDM3WVnxUq-AB35rY8tRyYYuPobs/s400/2010-05-03_6765.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
I know that most people have their version of Shepherd's Pie. Basically, meat and veggies with some sauce/gravy, covered in mashed potatoes. My mother's was done using Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup (I know it is bad for you, but it tastes so good!) for the sauce. Always <u>Campbell's</u> Cream of Mushroom, all others just tasted wrong! It is one of my favorite meals and it was an easy meal my kids LOVED. Then came in came Celiacs and out went casseroles. For the most part I wasn't a casserole maker to begin with, but I had a few staples and this was one. As with most starting out with gluten free cooking I shied away from all things that were inherently gluteny (I know it isn't a word, but it works so well). Eventually, I started experimenting, but this was still a recipe I stayed away from. How could it possibly be as good. After a year or so I braved this dish. At the time my daughter was off dairy and eating soy milk which I couldn't stand (thankfully she liked) so I decided to cook all the components and then right before adding the sauce, I pulled a little bit of the meat and veggie mixture out and added a mushroom white sauce I made from scratch. Thankfully, she loved it. I personally find it yummier now that I can use regular milk for the sauce, but I have to admit I still make two dishes and use Campbell's soup for our sauce and a homemade GF sauce for hers. Not really sure why, I really like the sauce I make for my daughter, I always make extra to use as gravy over some extra mashed potatoes. I think it is, mostly, because for me Shepherd's Pie reminds me of home and of my mom. It is my ultimate comfort food. Hopefully, for my daughter this recipe will do the same for her. This recipe makes about 5-6 servings depending on how much you want.<br />
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<div style="color: #783f04;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Shepherd's Pie </b><a href="http://docs.google.com/View?id=dczqv27j_678br32fj"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><i>(printer friendly)</i></span></a><b><br />
</b></span></div>
4-5 lg potatoes<br />
milk & butter for mashed potatoes<br />
1 lb hamburger or ground turkey<br />
1 medium onion, diced and divided<br />
1 can sliced mushrooms, drained and reserving the liquid.<br />
1 can green beans, drained<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
Mushroom Sauce (recipe below)<br />
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1. Cut up the potatoes into about 1/2"-3/4" cubes and boil in salted water until soft, but not mushy.<br />
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2. Meanwhile, in an oven proof skillet, brown the meat with the onion, reserving about 1 Tbsp of onion for the sauce.<br />
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When the meat is mostly cooked add the mushrooms.<br />
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When fully cooked add the green beans and bring to a boil. <br />
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<br />
Add enough of the sauce to make it really thick, it probably won't take all the sauce.<br />
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<br />
Cover with mashed potatoes, <br />
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<br />
leaving a hole down to the sauce to allow the steam to escape and not boil over (or at least not as much).<br />
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3. Cook in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. Serve. YUM!<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #783f04;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Mushroom sauce</span></b></div>
2 T butter or oil<br />
2 T diced onion<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp pepper<br />
1/4-1/2 tsp garlic powder <br />
1 1/2 T potato flour<br />
Reserved mushroom liquid<br />
Milk (choose your favorite, I prefer soy)<br />
1/2 T Worcestershire sauce<br />
1/2 tsp dried basil<br />
<br />
1. In a small pan melt butter. Saute onions until lightly browned. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder and potato flour.<br />
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Stir until lightly brown and somewhat smooth. It might be a little crumbly<br />
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2. Add milk to mushroom liquid to equal 1 C and add Worcestershire sauce and basil. Pour a little at a time into pan making sure to fully mix in the onion/flour mixture. Bring to a boil and cook until thick.<br />
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4001718629378491145.post-61628958818708336722010-06-25T10:58:00.000-07:002014-08-15T07:01:48.138-07:00Mandarin Salad with Sweet and Sour Dressing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I love this salad, it is so quick and easy and delicious! To make it a Main Dish you can add diced chicken.<br />
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: #b45f06;">Mandarin Salad with Sweet and Sour Dressing</b></span><br />
<a href="http://docs.google.com/View?id=dczqv27j_70cw7s2xcb"><i>(printer friendly recipe)</i></a><br />
1/4 C sliced or slivered almonds<br />
1 T plus 1 tsp sugar<br />
1/2 small head lettuce (I used green leaf), torn into bite-sized pieces<br />
1/2 bunch romaine, torn into bite-sized pieces<br />
2 medium stalks, celery, chopped (1 C)<br />
2 medium green onions, thinly sliced or chopped sweet onion (2 T)<br />
1 can mandarin oranges, drained or 4 mandarin oranges peeled and separated.<br />
1 C diced cooked chicken, (opt) <br />
Sweet and Sour Dressing (below)<br />
<br />
1. In a small skillet on low heat add the sugar and almonds.<br />
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<br />
Stir constantly until the sugar melts<br />
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<br />
and the almonds are coated.<br />
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<br />
Break apart and set on a small plate and allow to cook completely.<br />
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2. Toss the lettuces, celery, onions, oranges, and chicken (if using). <br />
3. Make dressing. 1x's the dressing if you are going to pour over the whole salad. 2x's the dressing if you will serve it on the side. Pour the dressing on right before serving.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Sweet and Sour Dressing</span></b></div>
1/4 C canola oil<br />
2 T sugar<br />
2 T white vinegar<br />
1 T chopped fresh parsley or 1 tsp dried<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
Dash of pepper<br />
Dash of red pepper sauce.<br />
<br />
1. Pour ingredints into a container that will close tightly.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> I have this salad dressing maker from Pampered Chef that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE. It has measurements on the side so I can just use those. Doesn't the vinegar and oil look fabulous?</i></div>
<br />
Shake all ingredients together and refrigerate until it is time to serve.Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719037127410337091noreply@blogger.com0