Cooking with Stephanie

Tortilla and Black Bean Pie

2012-01-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

Tortilla and Black Bean Pie
Found on Pinterest
This is a Martha Stewart Recipe

Ingredients
4 flour tortillas (10 inches)
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 large onion, diced
1 jalapeno chile, minced (remove seeds and ribs for less heat)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
12 ounces beer, or 1 1/2 cups water
1 package (10 ounces) frozen corn
4 scallions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (2 1/2 cups)
Directions
. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. With a paring knife, trim tortillas to fit a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of the pan as a guide. Set aside.
. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeno, garlic, and cumin; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5 to 7 minutes.
. Add beans and beer, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer until liquid has almost evaporated, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in corn and scallions, and remove from heat. Taste and adjust for seasoning.
Fit a trimmed tortilla in bottom of springform pan; layer with 1/4 of the beans and 1/2 cup of cheese. Repeat three times, using 1 cup cheese on top layer. Bake until cheese melts, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove side of pan; sprinkle pie with scallions. To serve, slice into wedges.

Chicken With Rice Soup

2012-01-11T14:18:00.000-08:00

Chicken with Rice Soup
From the Kitchen of Emma Caro

2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Onion Powder (this is to season the chicken with when you cook it)
Better Than Boullion
32 oz of Water
Near East Rice Pilaf
Carrots (chopped)

1.Bake the Chicken breasts in the oven (I usually bake chicken in the oven at 375 for about 35 minutes)...once done shred or dice
2. Dissolve Better than Boullion (BTB) in the 32oz of water in a big pot on the stove (I followed the measurements for BTB for how much to add to that amount of water, but it's really to taste)
3. Add the rice and contents of the seasoning pouch from the Near East Rice Pilaf
4. If you want to add Carrots, now is the time to add them.
5. Bring to a boil
6. When rice is just about cooked through, throw in the chicken and let it all cooke together until the rice is done. (You can add more broth depending on how thick or thin you like your soup)
7. Give a final taste test and adjust salt and pepper if needed
8. Serve with warm bread :)

Pumpkin Pecan Bites

2011-11-28T11:42:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Pecan Bites
From the Kitchen of Julie Palka

(Yield: about 6 dozen)

Ingredients:
1 Package (18- 1/4 ounces) Spice Cake mix
1 Can (15 ounces) Solid-pack pumpkin
3 Eggs
½ Cup canola oil
1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
36 Pecans cut into halves (you can usually break them in your hands too!)

Cream cheese frosting:
½ cup butter, softened
4 ounces of cream cheese, softened
*(I soften both by leaving them on the counter for a bit, it is a much better consistency than microwaving them!)*
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3- ¾ cups confectioners’ sugar
2 to 3 Tablespoons milk
(sprinkle ground cinnamon on top of frosted cupcakes!)

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin, eggs, oil, cinnamon, baking soda and cloves; beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. ( I just stir it by hand with a wooden spoon)

Step 2: Fill paper-lined miniature muffin cups two-thirds full. Press a pecan piece into each one. Bake at 350 Degrees for 17-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely (I just pull them out right away because I’m impatient!)

Step 3: In a small bowl, cream the butter, cream cheese and vanilla until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and mix well. Add enough milk to achieve spreading consistency. Frost cupcakes. Sprinkle with cinnamon.

*Note- This recipe can be prepared in 2 dozen regular size muffin cups. Bake for 22-26 minutes. (I use a whole pecan for the big ones so they have more crunch!) ENJOY!!

Pumpkin Flans!

2011-11-18T11:56:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Flans!
Tastes like a rich, custardy version of pumpkin pie
From BiggestLoserClub.com

If you have leftover pumpkin, try making a pumpkin smoothie with yogurt, milk, a few sweet spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, and a drizzle of sweetener.

Makes 8 flans

3 large eggs, preferably omega-3-enriched
1 1/4 cups unsweetened pumpkin puree
1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 1/2 teaspoons canola oil
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups 1% milk, heated until very hot
Ground nutmeg, for garnish

Preheat the oven to 350°F with an oven rack in the center position. Coat eight 6-ounce custard cups with canola cooking oil spray and set them in a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.

In a large bowl, beat the eggs slightly with a small whisk. Add the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, canola oil, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt and beat until blended thoroughly. Mix in the hot milk until blended. There will be 4 cups of liquid. Pour 1/2 cup of the flan mixture into each of the custard cups.

Bring about 3 cups of water to a light simmer on top of the stove (you can use a teakettle for this). Place the baking pan on the pulled-out oven rack and carefully pour the hot water into the baking pan until it comes up to the level of the custard inside the cups.

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until just set around the edges but still a little loose in the center; the center will jiggle a little when shaken.

Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Remove the cups from the water bath with tongs and place on a wire rack to cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours, until chilled.

Serve cold, garnished with ground nutmeg.

Per flan: 175 calories, 5 g total fat (1.5 g saturated), 110 mg cholesterol, 220 mg sodium, 24 g total carbohydrates (18 g sugars) , 2 g fiber,6 g protein

Peanut Butter Brownie Bites (a Pinterest Success)

2011-11-17T13:46:00.000-08:00

Here is the link

to a blog that had amazing Peanut Butter Brownie Bites!

I made them a couple of weeks ago with my bestie and then I made them again yesterday!

They are tasty! I recommend making them in mini muffin tins over the regular muffin tins (have tried them both ways).

Crusty Pizza Dough (Make with Kitchen Aid Mixer)

2011-11-17T13:40:00.001-08:00

Crusty Pizza Dough
From the Kitchen of Angela Ryberg

1 package dry yeast.
1 cup warm water
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp olive oil ( your preference)
2 1/2 - 3 1/2 cups all - purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornmeal ( optional)

Dissolve yeast in warm water in warm mixing bowl. Add salt , olive oil, and 2 1/2 cups flour. Mix about 1 minute

Continue mixing , add remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, and mix about 1 1/2 min., or until dough starts to clean sides of bowl. Knead about 2 minutes longer.

Cover and let dough rise in a warm place. About 1 hour. Then punch down.

Brush 14" pizza pan with oil and sprinkle cornmeal. Press dough across bottom pan forming a collar around edge to hold toppings. Add toppings as desired. Bake at 450 for 15-20 min.
Yield : 4 servings (1/4 pizza per serving.)

Per serving: about 373 cal, 11 g protein, 74 g carbs, 0 fat, 0 mg chol. , 271 mg sodium.

Variation.

Pizza for a crowd.

Double the recipe.

"Pizza Joes"

2011-11-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

"Pizza Joes"....
From The Kitchen of Diana Gartner

1 lb. lean ground beef
1/4 cup chopped green pepper
a sprinkling of onion powder to taste (or chopped up fresh onion if you like onion...we just don't really eat it in our house but i like to season with it a little)
14oz jar pizza sauce (or make your own...I do it both ways)
3oz sliced pepperoni, chopped
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp dried oregano
6 hamburger buns
mozzarella cheese

1. In a large nonstick skillet, cook the beef, onion/onion powder and pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Drain if necessary. Stir in the pizza sauce, pepperoni, and herbs. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 minutes or so.
2. Spoon beef mixture onto each bun; sprinkle with cheese; replace bun top.

And I always serve it with a side of homemade fries to complete the effect!

Veggie Shepherd’s Pie with Split Peas

2011-11-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

Veggie Shepherd’s Pie with Split Peas
From Kiwi Magazine (picture too)

Active time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
INGREDIENTS

2 TABLESPOONS OLIVE OIL, PLUS MORE FOR GREASING THE PIE PLATE
6 MEDIUM YUKON GOLD POTATOES, DICED INTO 2-INCH PIECES
1 MEDIUM YELLOW ONION, SLICED
2 MEDIUM CARROTS, PEELED AND CHOPPED
½ POUND CREMINI MUSHROOMS, SLICED
1 CUP COOKED YELLOW SPLIT PEAS
2 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED
1 TABLESPOON FRESH THYME
½ CUP VEGETABLE BROTH
2 TABLESPOONS UNSALTED BUTTER
½ CUP 1 PERCENT MILK
½ TEASPOON SALT, PLUS MORE TO TASTE
PEPPER, TO TASTE
DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 400°. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate with olive oil. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the diced potatoes to the boiling water and cook until fork-tender, 12 to 15 minutes.
While the potatoes cook, add the olive oil and the onion to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots and mushrooms and cook another 5 minutes, until the carrots begin to soften and the mushrooms have cooked down. Add the split peas, garlic, and thyme and cook 2 minutes more, then add the vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to simmer while you make the mashed potatoes.
Drain the potatoes and place them back in the pot. Add the butter and use a fork or potato masher to mash the potatoes. Slowly pour in the milk while you continue to mash, using a little bit more or less to reach the consistency you like. Add the salt and pepper, taste, and add more seasoning if necessary.
Transfer the vegetable mixture to the pie plate (there should be some broth still left in the skillet; pour that on top). Smooth with a spatula, then spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
Place the pie plate on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are just beginning to brown. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serves 6

Per serving: calories 312, fat 9 g, protein 9 g, carbohydrates 50 g, dietary fiber 9 g

Slimmer Slaw & Pork Medallions

2011-11-11T08:19:00.000-08:00

Slimmer Slaw & Pork Medallions
The Black Team's winning recipe
From: BiggestLoserClub.com

This tasty, satisfying pork dish that comes in at only 210 calories per serving.

For the pork:
1 pound trimmed pork tenderloin
Olive oil spray (propellant free)
Garlic powder, to taste
Sea salt, to taste
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

For the dressing:
1/4 cup + 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
2-1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
4 teaspoons nonfat Greek yogurt (the contestants used Fage)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

For the slaw:
2 cups shredded green cabbage
2 cups shredded red cabbage
2 cups bite-size red bell pepper strips (about 2 small peppers)
1-1/2 cups bite-size yellow bell pepper strips (about 1 medium pepper)
1/2 cup snap peas, thinly sliced on the diagonal
1/2 cup seeded, chopped cucumber
1 cup grape tomatoes (about 20 tomatoes), halved

Preheat a grill to high heat.

Lightly mist the tenderloin with the olive oil spray and season it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Grill the tenderloin for 3 to 5 minutes on the 3 faces until it is just barely pink in the center (or a thermometer inserted in the center reads 160°F). Remove it to a cutting board or platter and tent it with foil. Let stand for 5 minutes. Then slice it into 1/2"-thick pieces.

In a small mixing bowl, whisk the vinegar, sesame oil, and yogurt until well combined. Whisk in the salt and season with pepper.

Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, toss the cabbages, peppers, peas, cucumber, and tomatoes with the dressing. Divide the slaw among 4 dinner plates, mounding it to one side of the plate.

If using, in a small microwave-safe bowl, mix the cranberry sauce and ginger. Microwave on medium power for 30 seconds, or until the sauce is slightly melted and warm.

Fan one-quarter of the pork slices next to the slaw on the empty portion of each plate. Spoon 1 tablespoon sauce on the side of each, if desired.

Makes 4 servings

Per serving: 210 calories, 27 g protein, 13 g carbohydrates (7 g sugar), 6 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 74 mg cholesterol, 4 g fiber, 368 mg sodium

Grilled Turkey Burgers Supreme

2011-11-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

Grilled Turkey Burgers Supreme
From BiggestLoserClub.com

Burger satisfaction without tons of calories

In this week's food challenge, we learned that several Biggest Loser contestants used to chow down on double cheeseburgers, consuming thousands of calories in one sitting. Trainer Dolvett Quince showed them a much healthier burger alternative:

1 package extra lean seasoned turkey burger patties
4 slices reduced fat muenster, provolone, or cheddar cheese (optional )
4 whole wheat hamburger buns, split and toasted, or grilled, if desired
4 red or romaine lettuce leaves
4 thin slices red onion
4 slices tomato

Prepare grill. Coat patties with cooking spray. Grill the burgers as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Place cheese over patties during last minute of cooking, if desired. Split buns. On bun bottoms, add lettuce leaves, grilled patties, red onion, and tomato slices; add bun top. Serve with desired condiments.

Always cook to an internal temperature of 165°

Makes 4 servings.

Per serving without cheese: Calories 280, Total fat 7 g, Sat fat 1.5 g, Cholesterol 65 mg, Sodium 450 mg, Total carbs 27 g, Fiber 5 g, Sugars 6 g, Protein 29 g.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

2011-11-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

Loaded Baked Potato Soup
From the Kitchen of Tiffani Hampton

6 large baking potatoes, peeled, cut in 1/2-inch cubes
1 large onion, chopped and sautéed
1 quart chicken broth (I used water and chicken bouillon cubes since I
didn't have stock on hand)
3 cloves garlic, minced (or pressed)
1/4 cup butter
2 1/2 teaspoons salt (I used slightly less)
1 teaspoon pepper (I used more)
1 cup cream or half-and-half cream
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (I used more to help thicken)
3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1 cup sour cream (I only used about 1/2 cup)
8 slices bacon, fried & crumbled (I used more)
cheese, for sprinkling
I added Cayenne pepper to taste
I also added Cornstarch for thickening

PREPARATION:
Fry the bacon in a pan. Set bacon aside and save a small amount of the
bacon drippings to sauté the onions in.

Combine first seven ingredients in a large crockpot; cover and cook on
HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours (potato should be tender).

Mash mixture until potatoes are coarsely chopped and soupy is slightly
thickened. Stir in cream, cheese, sour cream, and chives. (i also
added some of the crumbled bacon). Add cornstarch to thicken if you
want (place some cornstarch in a bowl and then add some of the soup to
the bowl, mix, add more soup, mix...once cornstarch is nicely
dissolved, add to the crock pot and stir).

sprinkle with bacon and more cheese when served.

Butternut Squash Soup

2011-10-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

Butternut Squash Soup
Created by Amy Day

1 shallot, sliced thin
1/4 yellow onion, diced
1 butternut squash
4 medium sweet potatoes (not yams), peeled
2 apples, peeled and diced
1 can of pumpkin puree
8 dashes of curry powder
4 dashes of cinnamon
fresh grated nutmeg (about 20 swipes)
fresh grated ginger root (about 1.5 tbsp)
salt and pepper
about 8 cups of homemade chicken stock (I had a lot of sage and thyme in the stock that I used)

1. Early in the day: Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise (I did this by cutting off a slice from each end, standing it up on the fat end, and going straight through from top to bottom). Scrape out all the seeds. You don't need to peel the squash. Bake along with the sweet potatoes at 350 for about 2 hours, or until everything is starting to get soft (but not mushy - a little firm is OK).

2. When the squash and potatoes are done: Put a drizzle of olive oil at the bottom of a large pan. Add the shallots and onion and cook on low heat until they get soft. Add the apple and the ginger.

3. After they've baked and cooled enough to handle, cube up the sweet potatoes and add them to the pot. Scrape the squash out of its peel and throw that into the pot, in chunks. Add the pumpkin. Add the curry powder, salt, pepper, nutmeg and cinnamon.

4. Add a few inches of chicken stock to the bottom of the pan and turn up the heat to medium-low, so that you're basically simmering everything you've got in there. Leave it cooking this way, covered and on a very low simmer, for a few hours, stirring occasionally, until everything becomes very soft.

5. Use a big whisk (or hand mixer or food processor) to puree everything the pot. It should be soft enough that a whisk does the job. Continue adding chicken stock until it's the consistency that you want it to be, not too thick or too thin. Add more salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg or curry powder depending on your taste.

***the recipe I sent you a few weeks back (for squash soup) is actually made so much more easily in the slow cooker! I did it that way over the weekend. Instead of roasting the potatoes and squash, you just peel everything on the ingredient list, dump every ingredient into the slow cooker, and mash it up at the end of the day! So easy and every bit as tasty - and even lower calorie because you can skip the oil you'd have used for roasting and for starting the onions and shallot.

Hannah's Turkey-Stuffed Peppers

2011-10-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

Hannah's Turkey-Stuffed Peppers
From the BiggestLoserClub.com
The Season 11 finalist takes the new contestants into the kitchen!

On this week's episode, we watched Season 11 runner-up Hannah Curlee give the Black Team a good dose of inspiration and a cooking lesson on how to make one of her favorite healthy dishes. Here's the recipe.

1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1.25 pound extra-lean ground turkey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
¼ cup low-sodium tomato sauce
1 cup fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or parsley
3 large red bell peppers
¼ cup reduced-fat shredded Cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Lightly coat a large nonstick skillet with olive oil cooking spray. Heat over medium heat. Add onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté about 2 minutes, or until softened. Add ground turkey to the pan. Season to taste with salt and add garlic powder and ground cumin.

Cook turkey, breaking into chunks, 10 to 12 minutes, or until meat is no longer pink and juices run clear. Add tomato sauce and ½ cup of the broth. Reduce heat and simmer over low heat about 5 minutes. Add cilantro.

Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and stem. Place bell pepper halves in baking dish and spoon about 1/3 cup of the turkey mixture into each. Pour the remaining broth into the dish. Cover with foil and bake 35 minutes. Sprinkle peppers with cheese before serving.

Yield: 6 servings

Per serving: 140 calories, 20 fat calories, 2.5 g total fat, 0.5 g sat fat, 35 mg cholesterol, 150 mg sodium, 10 g total carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 5 g sugars

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

2011-10-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Below is a recipe from my friend Oriana Montani. She created it
herself.

Here is what she did to make Pumpkin Turkey Chili:

Saute yellow and yellow pepper and onion with two cloves of garlic.
Add ground turkey and brown
Add can of pumpkin puree, can of Kidney, can of corn, and can of diced tomatos.
Add half cup of chicken broth
I put a little dark beer in (like 1/4 cup) but you don't need it

Spices--I used chili powder, smoked chipotle chili powder, cumin, corriander, cinnamon, salt and pepper (to taste).

I would say I used a lot of the two chili powders and then probably a teaspoon on the others. I just added the spices to taste, but this should be a good base for you.

Good luck! This was one of my favorite meals that I have made. Hope you have the same experience.

Morning Glory Muffins

2011-10-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

Morning Glory Muffins
From the Kitchen of Margot Bass

2 1/2 cups sugar
4 cups flour
4 teaspoons cinnamon
4 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
(sift together)
1 cup of raisins
1 cup shredded coconut
4 cups shredded carrots
2 cups diced or shredded apples
1 cup pecans (optional)
6 eggs
(add to dry ingredients)
2 cups vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla
(add to mixture)

Bake @ 375 for 20 minutes
Makes 36 muffins
These are amazing! So filling with all the yumminess inside :)

Green Gobble-'Ems Garlic Bread Chunks

2011-10-10T21:24:00.000-07:00

Green Gobble-'Ems Garlic Bread Chunks (Seriously the best garlic bread I've ever had)
From the Kitchen of Julia Jezowski
Courtesy Of: Rachael Ray, Ghoulish Grub

4 cups spinach leaves, stemmed
4 cloves garlic, cracked from skins
1 stick softened butter
Salt and pepper
1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1 loaf good quality Italian bread

Preheat broiler or set oven to 400 degrees F.

Place the spinach in a food processor with garlic, butter, salt and pepper and cheese and process, scraping the mixture down if necessary.

Halve bread lengthwise and slather it with spinach butter. Broil or bake to crisp, 3 minutes under broiler, 6 to 7 minutes in hot oven.

Cut into large cubes and serve with pasta.

Oatmeal Coconut Cookies

2011-10-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

Oatmeal Coconut Cookies
From the Kitchen of Margot Bass

2 cups butter
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
(cream together)
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
(add to the creamed mixture)
4 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
3 cups oats
2 cups coconut flakes
(mix & add to the creamy egg mixture)

I use my kitchen aide & it really makes the motor groan :) Don't get nervous it's dry dough...
You can easily 1/2 the recipe and that makes things easier on your arm or mixer.
Place a teaspoon mounds on a baking sheet @ 350 for 8-10 minutes.
as soon as they come out of the oven smash one Hershey bar square in the center of each cookie!
Enjoy at least one while the cookie's hot and the chocolate's gooey!

Vegetarian Curry Stew

2011-10-08T11:40:00.000-07:00

Vegetarian Curry Stew
From BiggestLoserClub.com

Serve this fragrant and robust stew over steaming brown rice or whole grains for a hearty meal. You can also experiment with different beans or try substituting lentils or tofu.

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups finely chopped red onions
2 tablespoons finely chopped, peeled fresh ginger
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 cup diced fire-roasted tomatoes or chopped, seeded, peeled fresh tomatoes, or tomato sauce
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 cups fat-free, low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 (12-ounce) sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2" cubes (about 2 cups)
1 cup cooked black beans (see note)
1 cup cooked chickpeas (see note)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro, without stems
Fresh lime wedges

In a large, heavy pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until tender but not brown. Add the ginger and garlic and cook for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Do not brown the garlic.

Add the tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the coriander, cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon and cook for about 1 minute, or until very fragrant. Add the broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the sweet potato and simmer for about 4 minutes. Add the beans and chickpeas and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, sprinkled with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Note: For chicken curry, add 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2" cubes, in place of the beans and chickpeas.

Yield: 8 (1-cup) servings

Baked Ziti

2011-10-06T18:43:00.000-07:00

Baked Ziti
From the kitchen of Diana Brewster

One pound of Ziti noodles (cook for 10 mins)

Ricotta Cheese Mixture:

16oz Ricotta Cheese

1 egg

Half jar of sauce or if your sauce is homemade about 1 ½ cups

Garlic Powder ½ Teaspoon

Italian Seasoning 1 Teaspoon

½ Cup of Grated Parmesan Cheese

1 Cup of Grated Mozzarella Cheese

½ teaspoon Salt

Mix Everything together, it should be very moist

Add to the cooked pasta and stir. Add more Mozzarella Cheese if needed up to 1 cup more.

Layer 9x13 pan with sauce and then pour pasta mixture in. Top with sauce, mozzarella cheese and a sprinkling of Parmesan Cheese.

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes
Note: ( you can double this recipe very easily, and if you like meat just add to the Ricotta Mixture)

Pumpkin Pie Cobbler

2011-10-04T19:28:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Pie Cobbler
From the Kitchen of Rebecca McGuigan

One 21 oz. can pumpkin filling
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup butter, melted

Stir pumpkin pie filling and pie spice. Pour into 13 by 9 " baking dish. Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over pie filling. Sprinkle walnuts(optional) over the cake mix. Drizzle melted butter over the cobbler. Bake at 350 for 50 minutes. Add vanilla icecream. Enjoy!!

BBQ Ribs

2011-10-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

BBQ Ribs
From the kitchen of Stephanie (modified version of my Mother-in-Law's...Hilda...recipe)
**Sorry for the lack of pictures, I forgot to take them while I was making these. Next time I make them I will take pictures and add them in.

Ingredients:

To Parboil:
Babyback Pork Ribs (I bought the two half rack pack from Costco and cut each rack in half and made just one of the halves...about 8-9 ribs...for my family of three meat eaters)
1 1/2 Bottles of Beer (one you, or in my case, your husband would drink...we used Fat Tire)
Water
1 large yellow onion (quartered)
Garlic (4-5 minced cloves)

To make rub:
Paprika
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
Pepper (fresh cracked is best)
Salt
Ground Yellow Mustard
Cayenne Pepper

To BBQ:
Favorite BBQ Sauce (We like Randy Jone's All Natural BBQ Sauce)
Grill

Directions:

Parboil Ribs:
1. Place ribs in a deep dish skillet (with lid) that is big enough for all of the ribs
2. Add Onion and Garlic
3. Add one bottle of beer, then fill that empty bottle of beer with water and pour that in as well. If you still need more liquid to have about 90% of the ribs covered, than add 1/2 to a whole bottle of beer along with equal parts water. Cook on Medium to High heat
4. Bring to a boil...turn down heat to medium to low heat (so it's simmering).
5. Add lid and parboil for about an hour (a little more or a little less is fine, you just don't want the meat falling off of the bones when you go to grill.

Dry Rub:

1. Once ribs are done parboiling, pull them out and place on plate to cool. (you can use the beer/water/onion/garlic mix the next day in a crockpot recipe if you want to get more bang for your buck)
2. While ribs are cooling make rub. In a bowl combine equal parts: garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, paprika, and yellow mustard (I just used the palm of my hand to measure, so about 1.5 TBSP of each). Then add a little bit of salt and pepper (I did about 1/2 of a palm each, so about 2 tsp). Finally add even less cayenne pepper (I did about 1/4 of a palm, so about 1 tsp). Mix seasonings all together (I did this rub in this size quantity b/c I have three other rib racks in the freezer and I wanted enough for those ones too).
3. Rub generous amounts of rub on both sides of the ribs...save the rest of the rub in an air tight container for future use.

Grilling these bad boys:

1. If possibly, place on top rack (bone side down first) of a preheated grill.
2. Close the lid for about 5-7 minutes to let the rub really soak in.
3. Then, I used a basting brush and put BBQ sauce on the meaty part of the ribs (and let cook for another 5-7 minutes or so with the lid closed)...remember these ribs are already cooked through b/c of parboiling them, so you are just grilling to add flavor and texture...so make sure you grill isn't too hot (we kept ours on Med to Low heat)
4. Flip the ribs and baste the bone side with BBQ sauce as well...close lid and let cook for another 5-7 minutes
5. At this point, we took our ribs off b/c we were happy with how they looked and with the texture we'd created...crispy, but not too crispy...feel free to leave them on as long as needed to get them to a "doneness" you are happy with.

Enjoy

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

2011-09-30T08:35:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake
from Better Homes and Garden (It's their Cheesecake Supreme Recipe with some tweaks)

Click Here for the Recipe

I did not use their "optional" options and I just added half a bag of mini chocolate chips to the top (my friend Diana's idea) and then I topped it with fresh sliced organic strawberries!

Meat loaf Sloppy Joes

2011-09-30T08:28:00.000-07:00

Meat loaf Sloppy Joes
From BiggestLoserClub.com

Budget Supper
Meat loaf Sloppy Joes are a great way to save money and still eat amazing food

Leftovers make for delicious, inexpensive, and easy sandwiches to take to work or school the next day.

Olive oil spray
2/3 cup old-fashioned oats
1/3 cup + 1/4 cup + 1/4 cup canned sloppy joe sauce
2 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1 pound 96% lean ground beef
1/3 cup minced green bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion
1 clove fresh garlic, minced

Preheat the oven 350°F. Lightly mist a 9" x 5" x 3" nonstick loaf pan (a slightly smaller one is okay) with the olive oil spray.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, 1/3 cup + 1/4 cup of the sloppy joe sauce, and the egg whites. Let the mixture stand for 3 minutes, or until the oats begin to soften. Add the beef, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. With a fork or clean hands, mix the ingredients until well combined.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread so that the top is flat. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup sloppy joe sauce evenly over the top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink in the center. Let sit for 10 minutes. Cut into 8 slices and serve.

Yield: 4 servings

Per Serving: Calories 229.8, Total Fat 5.4 g, Saturated Fat 1.4 g, Cholesterol 61.8 mg, Sodium 343.5 mg, Total Carbs 15.8 g, Dietary Fiber 1 g, Sugars 3.8 g, Protein 27.5 g

How to Make Pumpkin Puree

2011-09-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

How to Make Pumpkin Puree

by Williams-Sonoma

Pumpkin puree is a key ingredient in fall pies, but it can also be used in breads, custards, ice creams, soups and a host of other dishes. If you’d rather skip the canned stuff, here’s how you can make it at home:

Roast the pumpkin
Place a small whole pumpkin on a baking sheet and roast it in a preheated 350°F oven until it can be easily pierced with a knife, 1 to 1 1/2 hours. For a shorter roasting time, slice the pumpkin in half and roast it, cut side down, in 1 inch of water in a baking dish until tender, about 45 minutes.

Scoop & puree
Let the pumpkin cool, then cut it in half crosswise (if not already done) and scoop out and discard the seeds. Scoop out the flesh with a large spoon and puree the flesh in a blender or food processor or with a food mill.

Now that you have the base ready, try these recipes featuring pumpkin puree. Substitute homemade puree for canned when applicable.

Turkey Lentil Chili with Torta Rolls

2011-09-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

Turkey Lentil Chili with Torta Rolls
From the Kitchen of Denise Pugh

Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
6 cups (48 oz.) reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 cups lentils, rinsed
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, un-drained
2 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

In a Dutch oven, cook turkey and onions over medium heat until no longer pink and onions are soft. Add the remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes or until lentils are tender.

Instead of all lentils I sometimes use a mix of rice, lentils and split-pea. You can also add or subtract the chili powder to your liking.

Susan's Homemade Croutons

2011-09-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Susan's Homemade Croutons
From the Kitchen of Susan Reid

3-4T olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
6 (1 inch) slices French bread, cubed

Combine all ingredients in large zip loc bag; seal and shake well. Spread cubes on a 15X10 jellyroll pan; bake at 425 for 10 minutes, stirring after 5 minutes.

Doc's Chili

2011-09-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

Doc's Chili
From BiggestLoserClub.com

Short on prep time, long on flavor and freezer friendly!

A simmering pot of Doc's Chili was found on the ranch stove every week during Season 2. The invention of contestant Dr. Jeff Levine, this crowd-pleasing dish is short on preparation time and long on flavor.

3 cups chopped yellow onions
1 pound lean ground turkey or lean turkey sausage
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground mustard
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
1 1/2 cups cooked pinto beans or 1 can (15 ounces), rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups cooked black beans or 1 can (15 ounces), rinsed and drained
3 cups diced tomatoes or 1 can (28 ounces) roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup fat-free chicken broth
1/2 cup black olives
1/2 cup chopped scallions or chopped fresh cilantro

Coat a large saucepan or Dutch oven with a few sprays of cooking spray. Add onions and sauté over medium-high heat until soft and just starting to brown. Add ground turkey and cook over medium high heat, breaking up meat with a spoon, for 6 minutes, or until cooked through. Add chili powder, oregano, cumin, mustard, garlic, beans, tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil over high heat and then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Garnish with olives and green onions or cilantro and serve immediately.

Yield: 2 1/4 quarts; 12 (1-cup) servings

Per Serving: 161.9 calories, 5.1 g total fat, 1.1 g saturated fat, 20.9 mg cholesterol, 505.5 mg sodium, 19.4 g total carbohydrates, 6.1 g dietary fiber, 1.7 g sugars, 11 g protein

My Chicken Caesar Salad

2011-09-21T16:14:00.000-07:00

My Chicken Caesar Salad
From the kitchen of Stephanie

Organic Romain Lettuce
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese
Texas Toast Caesar Croutons (I choose these because there is no High Fructose Corn Syrup or you can also make homemade ones)
Newman's Extra Virgin Olive Oil Caesar Dressing
Organic Chicken Breasts (2)

Directions:

1. Marinate the chicken in Salad Dressing (in an oven proof dish) for 1-2 hours
2. Cook Chicken at 375 for 35 minutes covered (in the same dish you marinated the chicken in), 5 minutes uncovered
3. While Chicken is cooking, wash and chop lettuce (I like to put paper towels in the bottom of my bowl and them put the lettuce on top to catch any extra water that drips off. Place bowl of lettuce in fridge.
4. Once the Chicken is done, I take it out and let it sit for about 5 minutes before chopping.
5. While waiting for the Chicken to cool, I shred the Parmesan onto the lettuce and add Fresh Cracked Pepper to taste
6. Then add the diced, warm chicken and croutons
7. Finish with adding dressing and toss...serve immediately

Black Bean Soup

2011-09-20T15:12:00.000-07:00

Black Bean Soup
From: BiggestLoserClub.com

Here's a quick, healthy black bean soup full of fiber and protein

If you don't have an immersion blender, just bring the mixture to a simmer for a minute then transfer to a traditional blender or food processor and puree.

2 (15-ounce) cans 50% less-sodium black beans, drained
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes in juice
2 cups water
3/4 cup minced celery
3/4 cup minced onion
2 teaspoons finely chopped seeded jalapeno chile pepper (wear plastic gloves when handling)
1 teaspoon freshly minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Ground black pepper, to taste
Red-pepper flakes, to taste

Combine three-fourths of the black beans, one-half of the tomatoes, and the water in a large nonstick saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. With an immersion blender, puree until mostly smooth. (Note: When using an immersion blender, make sure not to scratch the bottom of your nonstick pan.)

Add the remaining black beans and tomatoes, along with the celery, onion, chile pepper, garlic, and cumin. Season with black pepper and red-pepper flakes. Cover the pan, leaving the lid slightly ajar for steam to escape, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes longer, or until the vegetables are tender. Divide the soup evenly among 6 soup bowls and serve.

6 servings; serving = 1 cup

Per serving: Calories 124.7, Total Fat 0.1 g, Saturated Fat 0 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 414.3 mg, Potassium 81.3 mg, Total Carbohydrate 24.8 g, Dietary Fiber 1.2 g, Sugars 2 g, Protein 6.4 g

Warm Pasta Salad

2011-09-14T17:36:00.000-07:00

I love summer for so many reasons, one of them being that I love all of the fresh veggies. I have been making a lot of pasta dishes lately and throwing in whatever veggies I have on hand in the dish.

I also love pasta salad and so tonight I thought I'd try to make a warm pasta salad as a main course. Read the following to find out what I did:

Tonight, I have zucchini, asparagus, sweet onion, green onion, carrots, mushrooms, sweet yellow and red peppers, broccoli, and tomato (I know, it's technically a fruit). All of these are fresh and all of them are organic. While waiting for my pasta water to boil, I chopped these veggies up and set in them in a bowl for later.

I then added 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 of a sweet onion (diced), and about 1-2 TBSP of Extra Virgin Olive Oil to my wok and sauteed until translucent. I then added all of the fresh cut veggies and sauteed until tender/crisp. While cooking the veggies, I added salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste, along with a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it just a little kick.

While the veggies were cooking, I added the pasta to the boiling water and cooked according the package.

When the pasta and veggies were done, I combined them and added, goat cheese (I told you I have been a little obsessed with it lately), just a little Italian dressing, and freshly grated parmesan cheese.

I mixed all together in the wok over low heat, so that the goat cheese would have a chance to get nice and melted. I then topped it all off with parm again!

Serve immediately....hoping the left overs are just as good cold as warm! :)

Recipe:

2 cloves minced garlic
1-2 tbsp EVOO
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
a pinch of Cayenne Pepper
Whatever veggies you have on hand (here is what I used):
Carrots
Sweet Onion
Zucchini
Green Onions (the whole thing)
Tomato
Red and Yellow Bell Peppers
Asparagus
Broccoli
Whole Wheat Penne Pasta
Goat Cheese (I like a lot...about 1/2 to 3/4 of a tub)
Freshly Grated Parmesan
Italian Dressing (I prefer Newman's Own Organic Tuscan Italian)

1. Cook Pasta according to directions
2. Dice/chop veggies and saute with EVOO, garlic, and seasonings
3. Mix pasta and veggies together in sautee pan, over low heat, and add goat cheese and Italian Dressing.
4. Heat until Goat Cheese is soft.
5. Top with Parm and serve

Breakfast for Dinner

2011-09-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

A new tradition that we've started in our family is having breakfast for dinner once a week.

This started because Madison LOVES breakfast and she doesn't always love what we eat for dinner. Madison is a great eater, but she definitely has some favorites, so I try to accommodate them when I can. Thus, breakfast for dinner.

Tonight we are going to have pancakes, scrambled eggs with goat cheese, and apple smoked bacon.

For the pancakes I just use Trader Joe's Pancake mix (I cut the recipe in half when we have other items served with it)

For the Eggs, I use equal whole eggs to egg whites. So, tonight I will use 4 eggs and 4 egg whites and about three tablespoons of milk. I whisk them all together and scramble them in a frying pan. When they are just about done, I will add about three tablespoons of goat cheese to the eggs and finish cooking while the goat cheese melts through.

For the Bacon I also use a favorite from Trader Joes, Apple Smoked Bacon (containing no nitrites or nitrates)!

Adding breakfast once week has also saved us money. I typically have most of these items on hand already, so it's one less meal a week that I have to buy ingredients for!

Take a break! Enjoy breakfast for dinner one night this week! If you do, share what you had...I think next week we'll have crepes!

Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-09-12T15:58:00.000-07:00

Peanut Butter Cookies
From the Kitchen of Kelly Hunt

Ingredients
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cup crunchy peanut butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions
1. Cream together butter, peanut butter, vanilla and sugars. Beat in eggs.
2. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir into batter. Put batter in refrigerator for 1 hour.
3. Form dough into balls, roll in sugar, gently fork top to create cookie shape.
4. Roll into 1 inch balls and put on baking sheets. Flatten each ball with a fork, making a criss-cross pattern. Bake in a preheated 350 degrees F oven for about 9-10 minutes or until cookies begin to brown. Do not over-bake.
5. You can put a Hershey’s Kiss in the middle once baked if you wish.

Fall is Coming

2011-09-09T19:16:00.000-07:00

I love Fall!

Fall has such fun recipes!

I was given a sneak preview of Fall in our recent trip to Tennessee. During one of the rainy days there, we had a most delicious lunch that I had to share with you.

My friend Renee prepared the "Roasted Red Pepper" Soup from Trader Joes...she heated it on the stove and then added some of her own seasonings to fancy it up (garlic, salt, and pepper) Then just after pouring each bowl of soup she topped it with Goat Cheese...genius!

True Confession: I am obsessed with Goat Cheese right now!

Anyway, so she topped each bowl of soup with Goat Cheese....which translated equalled the equivalent of food heaven. I will definitely be doing this A LOT this fall with all different sorts of soups (pumpkin and butternut squash soup comes to mind).

We also had yummy grilled cheese sandwiches (another favorite in our house).

An aside: I have never liked tomatoes, but just recently (about a month ago) I started adding them to things and I've since decided I really like them cooked...not such a fan of them cold (in salads and such), but I do like them warm.

Okay, back to the grilled cheese sandwiches. Renee used Sour Dough (our bread of choice as well for a grilled cheese) and then proceeded to spread pesto (a favorite of mine on pizza and paninis) and filled the sandwiches with munster cheese (another favorite) and thinly sliced tomatoes...who'd have thought! I've had grilled cheese with tomato soup, but never tomatoes in grilled cheese. I LOVED it!

Well, last night we were feeling a little under the weather so we made soup and grilled cheese. I mimicked the grilled cheese, but also added some black forest ham. So fun!

Then tonight, I was in the mood for it again (I mean I had the fresh tomatoes, so why not). Tonight I made it a little differently. I did pesto, munster, tomatoes and sliced mushrooms! Oh my goodness, I loved it...wish I had also added some spinach!

I can't wait for Fall to truly arrive here in Southern California because soups and stews are calling my name, along with A LOT of Fall baking!

If you have any Fall recipes that you'd like to share, I would LOVE to post them and to also try them!

Creamy Cucumber Salad

2011-08-19T11:45:00.001-07:00

Creamy Cucumber Salad
From BiggestLoserClub.com
A lighter version for summer's bounty

Typically, this classic salad is made by dressing the cucumbers with full-fat sour cream or heavy cream. We lighten the salad by using reduced-fat sour cream and mixing it with yogurt.

Ingredients
1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
1/3 cup fat-free plain yogurt
1½ tablespoons white wine vinegar
1½ teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 medium Vidalia or other sweet onion, thinly sliced
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, yogurt, vinegar, sugar, salt (if using) and pepper.

In a medium bowl, combine the cucumbers and onions. Add the dressing and toss to coat well.

Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to blend all the flavors.

Yield: 8 Servings

NUTRITIONAL VALUES
Calories: 44
Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Protein: 1 g

Quinoa and Goat Cheese stuffed Bell Peppers (Remake)

2011-08-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

Quinoa and Goat Cheese stuffed Bell Peppers
A recreation by Stephanie of Haley's Recipe

Prep Time: 20 Min Cook Time: 40 Min

Ingredients
1 cup Chicken Broth
1/2 cup uncooked Quinoa
2-3 green bell peppers, hollowed and seeded
1/4 lb of Ground Turkey
1 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 of a small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 zucchini, finely chopped
1/2 yellow bell pepper, finely chopped
1 teaspoons dried basil
1 Pkt Italian Dressing seasoning (I used Simply Organic)
1 tsp minced garlic (1-2 cloves of garlic)
1 teaspoons salt
1 pinches ground black pepper
1 tomato, seeded and diced
1 cup crumbled goat cheese
Directions

This recipe will yield enough for three stuffed peppers, but I made two stuffed peppers and kept some of the filling in a separate ramekin for my daughter who is not a fan of green bell peppers.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.

Prepare Quinoa as directed on packaging. Remove from heat, and set aside. (I made mine in my rice cooker...takes about 35 minutes. Also, I use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the quinoa...it gives it a lot more flavor).

Place the peppers cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast 20 to 25 minutes in the preheated oven, or until tender and skin starts to brown. (mine were done at about 22 minutes)

While the peppers are roasting:

Cook Ground Turkey and onions with 1/2 of the Italian Seasoning Pkt. Set aside when cooked through.

In another skillet, heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the onions, carrots, yellow peppers, zucchini, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in oil for 5 to 7 minutes (until carrots are tender). Stir in the diced tomato, and cook for 5 minutes. Spoon in the ground turkey, stir until heated through.

Remove from heat, mix in the quinoa and the goat cheese, and spoon the mixture into the pepper halves. (I poured all of the ingredients into a glass bowl (ground turkey, veggies, quinoa, and goat cheese before stirring).

I had left over of the mixture, so I just put it in a ramekin to heat it through and I ate it for lunch the next day!

Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes. Serve immediately.

**Next time I would probably dice up celery and add it as well! To be honest and veggies would probably be great in this recipe...maybe I'll try asparagus too!

Hope you enjoy!

Greek Salad

2011-07-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

Greek Salad
From BiggestLoserClub.com

A delicious way to eat your veggies!

Extremely light and lemony, this is one of Chef Devin Alexander's all-time favorite recipes for eating lots of veggies.

3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley leaves
4 pitted kalamata olives, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
4-5 tablespoons lemon juice, preferably fresh-squeezed, divided
½ medium cucumber, seeded and chopped
½ medium red or orange bell pepper, chopped
1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped
1/3 cup finely-chopped red onion
1 ounce (heaping 1/4 cup) crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese, divided
1 small (4 ounce) grilled chicken breast, sliced (optional)

In a serving bowl, combine the parsley, olives, and garlic. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of lemon juice. Add the cucumber, bell pepper, tomato, onion and 3 tablespoons of the cheese. Toss to coat the ingredients with the dressing. Taste and add 1 tablespoon more lemon juice, if desired. Scatter the chicken over the salad, if desired. Top with the remaining cheese.

Makes 1 entrée salad if served with chicken or 2 side salads without.

1 serving (1/2 recipe without chicken) has: 106 calories, 5 g protein, 15 g carbohydrates, 4 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, trace polyunsaturated fat, 2 g monounsaturated fat, 5 mg cholesterol, 3 g fiber, 315 mg sodium

Cheese Enchiladas

2011-07-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

Cheese Enchiladas
From the kitchen of Mary and Stephanie

12 corn tortillas
Green Onions (chopped)
Enchilada Sauce (I prefer Trader Joes)
About two cups of cheddar cheese (shredded)

Pre-heat the oven to 350

Dip each tortilla in the sauce, sprinkle in a little cheese and roll and place in 9x13 baking dish (not greased). Repeat until all 12 are rolled. Sprinkle left over cheese on top along with chives. Cover with foil and bake at 350 for 20 min and then take foil off and bake 5-10 more minutes to desired "doneness!" I serve them with sour cream and guacamole!

Quinoa and Goat Cheese stuffed Bell Peppers

2011-07-25T06:58:00.000-07:00

Quinoa and Goat Cheese stuffed Bell Peppers
From the Kitchen of Haley

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 20 Min Cook Time: 40 Min

Ingredients
2 cups water
1 cup uncooked Quinoa
4 green bell peppers, halved and seeded
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 green onions, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons dried basil
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons salt
2 pinches ground black pepper
2 tomato, diced
1 cup crumbled goat cheese
Directions

This recipe's Ingredients were scaled to yield a new amount. The directions below still refer to the original recipe yield of 2 servings.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
Prepare Quinoa as directed on packaging. Remove from heat, and set aside.
Place the peppers cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until tender and skin starts to brown.
While the peppers are roasting, heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the onions, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in oil for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the diced tomato, and cook for 5 minutes. Spoon in the cooked rice, and stir until heated through. Remove from heat, mix in the goat cheese, and spoon the mixture into the pepper halves.
Return to the oven for 5 minutes. Serve immediately.

Southern Fried!

2011-07-15T08:45:00.000-07:00

Southern Fried!
From BiggestLoserClub.com

A regional favorite with a dash of garlic

To achieve an even crisper, oven "fried" crust, cook the chicken on the bottom rack of your oven.

• 4 small bone-in chicken breasts (approximately 7 to 8 ounces each), trimmed of skin and visible fat (see note)
• 1 1/4 cups low-fat buttermilk
• Olive oil spray (propellant free)
• 2 teaspoons all-natural salt-free garlic herb seasoning or your favorite all-natural salt-free seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste, if desired
• 1 cup all-natural whole wheat panko-style bread crumbs

Add the chicken breasts and buttermilk to a large resealable plastic bag or container. Rotate the breasts so they are completely coated, then seal the bag or container. Marinate them in the refrigerator at least 6 hours or overnight, rotating them once or twice.

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Lightly mist a medium nonstick baking sheet with spray.

In a small bowl, mix the seasoning and salt.

Add the panko to a medium shallow bowl.

Remove 1 chicken breast from the buttermilk. Let any excess buttermilk drip off it, then sprinkle the entire breast (both sides) evenly with about one-quarter of the seasoning mixture. Dip the chicken in the panko, rotating it to cover completely. Place the breaded chicken breast face down (ribs up) on the prepared pan. Repeat with the remaining breasts, arranging them on the baking sheet so they do not touch.

Lightly mist the chicken with spray. Bake for 10 minutes, then gently flip the breasts, being careful not to remove any breading. Lightly mist them again with spray and continue to bake for 12 to 15 minutes longer, or until the breading is crispy and the chicken is no longer pink inside. Sprinkle with additional salt, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days to eat cold.

Makes 4 servings

Per serving: 176 calories, 25 g protein, 14 g carbohydrates (1 g sugar), 2 g fat, trace saturated fat, 55 mg cholesterol, 2 g fiber, 393 mg sodium

Ratatouille with Spicy Sausage

2011-07-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

Ratatouille with Spicy Sausage
From BiggestLoserClub.com

A traditional dish with a rich and satisfying flavor

Ratatouille is a classic Provencal dish consisting of slowly simmered eggplant, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs.

2 (4-ounce) links spicy Italian turkey sausage
3 zucchini (yellow or green), cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1 medium white or red onion, sliced into 1/2-inch-thick rings
1 eggplant (about 1 1/2 pounds), cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
2 red, yellow, or green bell peppers, roasted, peeled, and cut into 1/2-inch squares
1 (14.5-ounce) cans no-salt-added fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
Salt and ground black pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf (Italian) parsley, for garnish

Remove the sausage meat from the casings. Cook in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until there is no more pink. Drain well, crumble, and set aside.

Prepare a grill and heat to medium-high heat (when the fire is ready you can hold your hand 5 inches above rack for no longer than 3 to 4 seconds). Insert a toothpick horizontally through each onion slice going through all the rings to the center to hold the slices intact. Lightly coat the onion, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil cooking spray. Grill the vegetables on the grill rack, turning once, until done, about 4 minutes total. (Onions may take longer.)

When cool enough to handle, cut the grilled vegetables into 1/2-inch dice and transfer to a bowl. Add the roasted pepper, tomatoes, lemon zest, basil, and thyme. Stir in the sausage. Season with salt and black pepper, if desired. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with the parsley.

Makes 4 servings

Per serving: 170 calories, 6 g total fat (1.5 g saturated), 35 mg cholesterol, 389 mg sodium, 21 g total carbohydrates (11 g sugars), 8 g fiber, 12 g protein

Apricot Brie Cups

2011-07-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

Apricot Brie Cups
From the Kitchen of Kristi Cox

You buy the Athens Phyllo Dough Shells (mini) (I have only found them at Super Walmart They sell out really fast around the holidays).

Then I go to Trader Joe's and get
-Apricot Preserves
-Brie (or gorgonzola is tasty too)
-Sliced Almonds

Put the brie at the bottom of each phyllo shell and then fill with the apricot preserves. Top each one with one sliced almond (It makes it look extra special). I just bake them for a little bit until they bubble (I can't remember if there are heating instructions on the phyllo shell box but if there is, then just follow that)

ENJOY!

Strawberry Cake

2011-07-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Courtney made the most delicious Strawberry Cake and posted how she did it on her AMAZING website A Diamond in the Stuff

.

Click here to view the recipe, pictures included!

Avocado Crab Dip

2011-07-06T07:13:00.000-07:00

Avocado Crab Dip
From the kitchen of Melissa St. Clair

Ingredients:
2 whole Avocados, seeded and peeled
1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 Tablespoon chopped onion
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1 package 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pound crab meat, drained of any juice
1 pound baguette

Directions:

Slice baguette. Lay slices out on a cookie sheet and toast in a 350 degree oven. Cool. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado with the lemon juice. Pulse a couple times. Add the onion and Worcestershire. Pulse until combined, but keep a little bit lumpy, do not puree. Add cream cheese, sour cream, and salt. Pulse a couple of times. Stir in the crab meat. Chill dip until needed. Keep in mind that the avocado will discolor within a few hours, so make no more than a couple of hours before serving!

Serve with toasted baguette.

Glazed Lemon Cookies

2011-07-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

Glazed Lemon Cookies

From the Kitchen of Kristin Sumption

Cookie Ingredients:
3/4 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup sugar (although I think I would have been happier with 1/2 cup)
2 egg yolks
1/2 teaspoon vanilla (I used 3/4 teaspoon, I also have a love for vanilla :))
1/4 teaspoon salt (leave this out if you use salted butter)
2 cups flour

Glaze Ingredients
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (I went crazy here and used two lemons worth of zest, I think it was about 2-3 teaspoons)

Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg yolks, vanilla and salt, beat until combined. Slowly add the flour and mix until just incorporated.

Divide the dough in half and shape into 1 1/4 inch diameter logs. Wrap in wax paper and pop them in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes

Heat oven to 350 degrees, slice the logs less then 1/2inch thick and bake on parchment paper lined cookie sheets for 13-16 minutes. Let cool completely.

In a small bowl whisk together the glaze ingredients until it forms a thick yet pourable glaze. Dip the top of each cooled cookie and let set, about 15 minutes.

Red, White, and Blue Stars

2011-07-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

Red, White, and Blue Stars

From MarthaStewart.com

Ingredients

5 cups cake flour (not self-rising), plus more for surface
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
12 ounces (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream, plus more for brushing
3/4 cup raspberry jam
3/4 cup blueberry jam
2 tablespoons sanding sugar

Directions

Sift flour, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl. Cream butter and granulated sugar, with a mixer on medium speed, until pale and fluffy. Beat in yolks and vanilla until well combined. Add flour mixture in 3 additions, alternating with cream and beating well after each addition. Shape dough into 4 disks, wrap each in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or up to 3 days).

On floured parchment, roll 1 disk of dough into a 1/8-inch-thick rectangle. Repeat with remaining disks. Stack sheets of dough and parchment, and refrigerate for 1 hour or freeze for 30 minutes.

Spread raspberry jam on 1 sheet of dough, blueberry jam on another. Top each with a plain sheet of dough. Refrigerate for 1 hour or freeze for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut out cookies using a 2 1/2-inch star-shaped cutter, and space 1 inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush with cream, and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes.

Bake, rotating sheets halfway through, until golden, 16 to 20 minutes. Transfer cookies to wire racks, and let cool completely. If desired, bake dough scraps.

Red, White, and Blue Parfaits

2011-07-01T10:07:00.000-07:00

Red, White, and Blue Parfaits

From MarthaSteward.com

Ingredients

4 1/2 pounds fresh red currants, stemmed
3 cups sugar
3 envelopes unflavored gelatin (about 6 3/4 teaspoons)
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin (about 4 1/2 teaspoons)
3 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 pounds fresh blueberries
2 ounces fresh currants, on the stem

Directions

Make the currant gelatin: Put currants and sugar in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until currants are very soft, about 10 minutes.

Put 1/3 cup cold water into a small bowl; sprinkle with gelatin. Let soften 5 minutes. Add to currant mixture; stir until gelatin has dissolved, about 5 minutes.

Pour through a fine sieve into a bowl set in an ice-water bath, gently pressing out liquid with a spoon; discard solids. Remove from water bath, and let stand, stirring occasionally, until cool but not set. Pour 3 to 4 tablespoons currant gelatin into each of twelve 8- to 10-ounce glasses; set remaining currant gelatin aside. Refrigerate glasses until gelatin is completely set, about 1 hour.

Meanwhile, make the panna cotta: Put 1/3 cup cold water into a small bowl; sprinkle with gelatin. Let soften 5 minutes.

Put milk, cream, and sugar into a medium saucepan; bring almost to a boil. Reduce to a simmer. Add gelatin mixture, and stir until gelatin has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Pour through a fine sieve into a bowl set in an ice-water bath. Remove from water bath; let stand, stirring occasionally, until cool but not set.

Spoon 3 to 4 tablespoons panna cotta over currant gelatin in each glass; set remaining panna cotta aside. Refrigerate glasses until panna cotta is set, about 1 hour. Repeat with another layer of currant gelatin and panna cotta. If either mixture becomes too firm, set over a pot of simmering water until softened.

To serve, top each parfait with blueberries and currants, dividing evenly.

Blueberry Tart

2011-07-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

Blueberry Tart

From RealSimple.com

Ingredients
flour for the work surface
1 8-ounce sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
2 cups blueberries

Directions
Heat oven to 375° F. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the sheet of pastry and roll it into a 10-by-12-inch rectangle. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Using the tip of a knife, score a 1-inch border around the pastry without cutting all the way through. Brush the border with the egg and sprinkle with the granulated sugar. Bake until golden and puffed, 18 to 22 minutes.
Using the tip of a knife, rescore the border of the cooked pastry without cutting all the way through. Gently press down on the center of the pastry sheet to flatten it. Let cool to room temperature, 15 to 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, with an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the cream, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of the confectioners’ sugar and beat until smooth. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly within the borders of the pastry.
Arrange the blueberries in a single layer over the filling and sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon of confectioners’ sugar.

Berry Shortcakes

2011-07-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

Berry Shortcakes
From RealSimple.com

Ingredients
2 pounds berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries)
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
8 biscuits, store-bought or made from a mix

Directions
In a large bowl, toss the berries and 1/3 cup of the sugar. Let sit for at least 15 minutes (and up to 4 hours, refrigerated).
In a medium bowl, beat the cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form.
Split the biscuits in half. Spoon the berries and whipped cream on the bottom halves and sandwich with the tops.

Healthy Greek Salad

2011-07-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

Healthy Greek Salad
From BiggestLoserClub.com
A favorite dish that cuts the sodium

If you're grilling chicken this weekend, here's the perfect salad for it. This recipe uses plenty of fresh lemon juice to create a dressing that bursts with flavor!

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, or more to taste
1 teaspoon freshly minced garlic, or more to taste
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup 3/4" cubes cucumber
1 cup 1" cubes red bell pepper
1 cup 1" cubes Roma tomato
6 kalamata olives, cut in half lengthwise
1 ounce all-natural light feta cheese, cut into 1/8" cubes
4 ounces grilled chicken, cut into slices
1/2 teaspoon dried mint leaves

In a small resealable plastic container, shake together the lemon juice, garlic, and oil to make the dressing.

In a large bowl, toss the cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, olives, cheese, and the dressing. Transfer the salad to a large serving plate. Top it with the chicken and then the mint, crushing the leaves slightly with your fingers as you sprinkle it over the salad. Serve immediately.

Makes 1 serving

Per serving: 346 calories, 35 g protein, 26 g carbohydrates (13 g sugar), 12 g fat, 4 g saturated fat, 71 mg cholesterol, 6 g fiber, 863 mg sodium

Grilled Corn Pasta Salad

2011-06-29T07:59:00.000-07:00

Grilled Corn Pasta Salad
By: Taste of Home

8 Servings Prep: 20 min. + soaking Grill: 25 min. + cooling

Ingredients
4 large ears sweet corn in husks
1-1/2 cups uncooked penne pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
1 can (2-1/4 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained
1/3 cup white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions
Carefully peel back corn husks to within 1 in. of bottom; remove silk. Rewrap corn in husks and secure with kitchen string. Place in a stockpot; cover with cold water. Soak for 20 minutes; drain.
Grill corn, covered, over medium heat for 25-30 minutes or until tender, turning often.
Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. When corn is cool enough to handle, remove kernels from cobs and place in a large bowl. Add the pasta, tomatoes, zucchini and olives.
In a small bowl, whisk the remaining ingredients. Pour over salad and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Yield: 8 servings.

Nutritional Analysis:
One serving (1 cup) equals 164 calories, 6 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 382 mg sodium, 27 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 5 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges:

Puff Pancakes

2011-06-24T10:47:00.001-07:00

Puff Pancakes
From the Kitchen of Kristin Sumption

Preheat oven and 9inch cake pan at 450 degrees

Ingredients:
2 Eggs
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup milk
dash of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons butter

Directions:
Beat together all the ingredients, except the butter, all at once. The more air you beat into the pancake batter the puffier it will be. When the oven and pan have been preheated toss the 2 tablespoons of butter into the pan and return it to the oven. Once the butter is melted and bubbling pour the batter slowly into the center of the pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and deliciously puffy!

Serve with powdered sugar and lemon juice :)

This makes 1 pancake that could easily serve two people. I usually make three of them since my boys love them so much. If you make more than one, you must make the batters in separate bowls, it's the only way they will all turn out correctly. Bummer it makes more dishes but its so worth it!

Enjoy!

Another option is to leave out the vanilla and serve it as a savory dish with a french stew or something similar! Yum!

Grilled Chicken Nachos

2011-06-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

Grilled Chicken Nachos
By: BiggestLoserClub.com
Fire up your weekend with this south of the border favorite!

Be sure you either wear plastic gloves or wash your hands immediately after working with jalapeños.

1 ounce baked tortilla chips
1/4 cup drained canned 50% less-sodium black beans, heated
4 ounces grilled extra-lean boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small cubes
2 tablespoons salsa con queso, all-natural, heated
3 tablespoons finely chopped seeded tomato
2 tablespoons thinly sliced jalapeño chile pepper

Lay the chips on a dinner plate. Top them evenly with the beans, followed by the chicken. Drizzle the cheese evenly over the top. Top with the tomato and jalapeño slices and serve.

Makes 1 serving

Per serving: 321 calories, 32 g protein, 36 g carbohydrates, 5 g fat (less than 1 g saturated), 65 mg cholesterol, 5 g fiber, 498 mg sodium

Strawberry Summer Cake

2011-06-24T07:00:00.001-07:00

My sweet friend Kristin had the most awesome post (with pictures) for an awesome Strawberry Summer Cake.

Click here for the recipe :)

Essential Grilled Chicken

2011-06-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

Essential Grilled Chicken
From BiggestLoserClub.com
An essential item for controlling weight

Keep extra grilled chicken on hand at all times to toss into salads, layer into sandwiches, and sprinkle on pizzas and quesadillas for a healthy protein punch.

4 (4-ounce) trimmed boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil spray (propellant free)
Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste

Preheat a grill to high heat.

Lightly mist both sides of each chicken breast with spray and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until no longer pink. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings

Per serving: 127 calories, 26 g protein, 0 g carbohydrates (0 g sugar), 2 g fat, trace saturated fat, 66 mg cholesterol, 0 g fiber, 74 mg sodium

Fried Rice

2011-06-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

Fried Rice

Here is my recipe for Fried Rice (it's adapted from the Better Homes and Garden Version)

1 tsp sesame oil or cooking oil
2 beaten eggs
1/2 bag of frozen peas and carrots
4-5 green onion chopped
2 cloves minced garlic
1 tbsp cooking oil
3-4 tbsp low sodium soy sauce (plus more for seasoning)
2 tbsp water
dash ground red pepper
2 cups chilled cooked rice (I used 1-2 day old rice...I cook it in my rice cooker and spread in on a parchment lined cookie sheet and leave it in the fridge for a day or two before I plan to use it)

In a large skillet/wok add 1 tsp oil over medium heat....add beaten eggs, lifting and tilting skillet to
for a thin layer. Cook for 1 minute or until egg is set. Invert skillet over cutting board and cut egg
into short narrow strips; set aside for later

In the same skillet, add the sesame oil, green onion, garlic, peas/carrots and let cook for about 3-4 minutes (you can also add other veggies such as mushrooms,
asparagus, or broccoli if you want).

Stir soy sauce, water and red pepper.....add to veggies.

Stir in rice and saute for about two-3 minutes (I like to do it longer and in a thin layer so that the rice gets a little crispy).

I also add more soy sauce on top of the rice after I mix it, so that it's even coated :)

Finally, add the egg strips back in, cook a few more minutes, until egg is hot.

Enjoy!

Chicken Salad

2011-06-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

Chicken Salad
From BiggestLoser.com

Dijon mustard lovers will like this twist on traditional chicken salad

This deceptively creamy dressing has about 1/3 of the calories and 1/4 of the fat usually found in a similar sized serving.

1 pound trimmed, boneless skinless chicken breasts
3 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons fat-free plain yogurt
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/3 cup chopped celery
1/3 cup seedless grapes, cut in half
1/3 cup chopped red apples

Preheat a grill to high heat.

Rub the chicken on all sides with 1 teaspoon of the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Grill it for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is no longer pink inside. Allow the chicken to cool, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.

Meanwhile, in a large glass or plastic mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, the yogurt, and mustard. Add the chicken, celery, grapes, and apples. Gently toss the mixture well to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Serve over a bed of lettuce leaves or on sprouted grain or multi-grain bread.

Makes 4 servings; 3 cups.

Per 3/4 cup serving: 173 calories, 27 g protein, 4 g carbohydrates, 5 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 66 mg cholesterol, trace fiber, 233 mg sodium

Frozen Banana Treats Recipe

2011-06-01T08:30:00.000-07:00

Frozen Banana Treats Recipe
From Taste of Home

Ingredients
1-1/2 cups granola without raisins, crushed
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
8 Popsicle sticks
4 large firm bananas, halved widthwise
Directions
Sprinkle granola onto a large piece of waxed paper; set aside. In a microwave, melt chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Stir in peanut butter until blended.
Insert a Popsicle stick into each banana half. Spread with chocolate mixture; roll in granola. Wrap in foil and freeze for 24 hours. Yield: 8 servings.

Nutrition Facts: 1 serving equals 307 calories, 15 g fat (5 g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 60 mg sodium, 44 g carbohydrate, 7 g fiber, 8 g protein.

Banana Basics
Look for plump bananas that are evenly yellow-colored. Green bananas are under-ripe, while a flecking of brown flecks indicates ripeness. If bananas are too green, place in a paper bag until ripe. Adding an apple to the bag will speed the process. Store ripe bananas at room temperature. To prevent bruises, a banana hook or hanger is a great inexpensive investment. For longer storage, you can place ripe bananas in a tightly sealed plastic bag and refrigerate. The peel will become brown but the flesh will remain unchanged. One pound of bananas equals about 3 medium or 1-1/3 cups mashed.

Crockpot Chicken and Hawaiian Rolls

2011-05-26T13:07:00.001-07:00

Here is a quick easy Meal from my friend Karissa Druse:

frozen chicken, bbq sauce, chopped white onion, pineapple chunks (canned)...none of the juice...on low for 8 hours...shred it and put it on hawaiian rolls or over rice....its yummy!! :)

Jay's Winning Turkey Burger

2011-05-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

Jay's Winning Turkey Burger
From BiggestLoser.com Community email

Jay's "volcano" burger meets the kid test!

This week the final four contestants were challenged to come up with a turkey burger for the toughest audience of all—kids. When all was said and done—and eaten—it was Jay Jacobs's "volcano" burger that led the way.

4 oz extra lean ground turkey
1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
2 T ketchup
1 T shredded low fat mozzarella cheese
1 T shredded low fat cheddar cheese
1 small whole wheat hamburger bun (such as Sandwich Thins)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Form ground turkey in a cone shape to look like a volcano with center somewhat hollow. Bake in oven for 10-15 minutes.

Place bottom of bun in center of serving plate. Distribute lettuce around bun to simulate grass. Place burger cone on bun. Spoon ketchup into the hollowed out portion of the burger, and drizzle down the side to make it look like lava coming out. Sprinkle the top of volcano with cheeses. Set bun top on side. Makes one burger.

Per serving: Calories 340; fat calories 50; total fat 6; sat fat 3g; cholesterol 60mg; sodium 620mg; total carbs 32g; fiber 6g; sugars 8g; protein 45g

Shrimp, Crab and Avocado Salad

2011-05-10T22:08:00.000-07:00

Shrimp, crab and avocado salad
From the Kitchen of Susan Reid

½ lb each cooked shrimp and fresh lump crabmeat

1 mango

¼ c each extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, fresh lime juice

¼ c cilantro, minced plus sprigs for garnishing

1 jalapeno chile, minced

½ shallot, minced

sea salt and ground pepper

½ head butter lettuce

1 avocado, diced

lime wedges for serving

Peel and dice shrimp. Pick over crabmeat for shell fragments.

Peel, pit and finely dice mango. In a bowl, stir together mango, olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeno, and shallot. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add shrimp and crabmeat and stir to combine.

Finely shred lettuce. In 4-6 clear glass tumblers, arrange lettuce in a layer on bottom. Top with crab mixture. Spoon avocado on top and garnish with lime wedges and cilantro sprigs. Serve at once.

Mango Quinoa Salad

2011-04-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Mango Quinoa Salad
From BiggestLoser.com
Ali Vincent's protein-loaded treat!

Season 5 champ Ali Vincent showed contestants this week how to make this delicious snack. Or you can have it with fish as a side dish for dinner or put it in a wrap.

2 cups cooked red quinoa (at room temperature or cold)
1 mango diced
1 handful of chopped cilantro
1 15-ounce can of black beans
1 red bell pepper chopped
6 green onions thinly sliced
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoons fresh lime juice

In a small bowl, combine vinegar, oil and lime juice. In a big bowl, combine all other ingredients. Drizzle liquid mixture over the salad, and toss until well combined. Chill for about an hour.

Makes 6 servings

Per serving: calories 240; Total Fat 8g; Sat Fat 1g; Cholest 0mg; Sodium 10mg; Total Carb 34g; Fiber 7g; Sugars 9g; Protein 7g.

Chicken Cheese Steak Wrap

2011-04-22T11:29:00.000-07:00

Chicken Cheese Steak Wrap
Rich taste without the fat
From BiggestLoser.com

1 small (4 ounces) boneless, skinless chicken breast
Olive oil cooking spray
¼ cup onion slivers
1 whole wheat flour, low-carb tortilla (7 1/2" diameter - 60 calories)
1 wedge (3/4 ounce) The Laughing Cow® Light cheese
1 tablespoon low-sodium ketchup
2 teaspoons sliced pickled hot chile peppers

Coat a medium nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Set it over medium-high heat until it is hot enough for a spritz of water to sizzle on it. Place the onion and the reserved chicken in the pan. Cook, separating the chicken shavings with 2 wooden spoons or spatulas, for 2 minutes, or until evenly browned. Remove the pan from the heat. Set aside.

Meanwhile, place the tortilla between 2 damp paper towels. Microwave on low power in 10 second intervals, or until warmed.

Place the tortilla on a serving plate. Spread the cheese, leaving about 2" bare on one end, in an even strip (about 3" wide) running across the center of the tortilla. Top with the chicken mixture, the ketchup and peppers. Fold the bare end of the tortilla up over the filling, and then fold the sides of the tortilla over the middle. Serve immediately.

Yield: 2 Servings

Per serving: Calories 122.3; Total Fat 3.1g; Sat Fat 0.2g; Cholesterol 32.5mg; Sodium 148.5mg; Total Carb 9.9g; Dietary Fiber 4.9g; Sugars 1.9g; Protein 16.4g.

Portobellos and Asparagus

2011-04-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

Portobellos and Asparagus
From BiggestLoser.com
Mushrooms add meaty richness to this vegetable side dish

As the nutritionist for The Biggest Loser, Cheryl Forberg shared this recipe from her just-published Flavor First (Rodale, April 2011). She tells us this dish is super easy to prepare!

2 teaspoons canola or olive oil
3 cups sliced portobello mushrooms (about 2 large portobellos, stems and black gills removed)
2 tablespoons chopped shallots
3 cups 1 1/2-inch asparagus pieces, from about 1 pound (see note)
1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
3 (1/2-ounce) slices nitrite-free turkey (or pork) bacon, cooked until crisp, drained well, and crumbled
1 tablespoon grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

In a nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for about 3 minutes, or until they just start to soften and release their liquid. Add the shallots and cook for another minute.

Add the asparagus and cook for 3 minutes longer, or until the asparagus is just crisp-tender.

Drizzle the soy sauce over the veggies and sprinkle with the bacon crumbles and cheese. Toss well and serve hot.

MAKES 4 (1/2-CUP) SERVINGS

Per serving: 60 calories, 1 g total fat (<1 g saturated), 20 mg cholesterol, 110 mg sodium, 7 g total carbohydrates (2 g sugars), 2 g fiber, 6 g protein

Beef Stew

2011-04-13T12:18:00.000-07:00

Beef Stew
From the Kitchen of Donna Rowell

Stew Meat
Pam
1 onion (minced)
Lawry's Beef Stew seasoning pkt
1 can Campbell's Beef Consomme
1 can beef broth (I usually use 1.5 to 2 boxes of broth, organic of course)
2 cups water
Potatoes, peeled and diced (as many as you want...I usually use 2-3 Large potatoes)
Carrots, peeled and diced (as many as you want...I usually use 1/2 to 3/4 of a bag of fresh carrots)
1 small bag of frozen peas
3T cornstarch + 1/4 cup of water

Directions:

For the stew I buy stew meat from Costco or I buy a round steak or even a chuck roast and cut up the meat into chunks. Then I spray my pan with Pam and add some olive oil and brown the meat with a cut up onion.
Next I add the Lawry's Beef Stew seasoning packet and add a can of Campbell's Beef Consomme and a can of beef broth and two cups of water and cover and cook for about an hour. Next I add cut up potatoes (when I am in a hurry I even use canned cut up potatoes) and carrots and cook till tender. If I need to, I add more water. Then I add frozen peas to the top and allow them to kind of "steam". Then I thicken with cornstarch ( I put about 1/4 cup of water with 3 T of cornstarch mixed together). Stir and thicken - allow to cook for 5 mins and serve...

Amanda Graber Monster Cookies

2011-04-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

Amanda Graber Monster Cookies
Recipe from: "An Amish Gathering: Life in Lancaster County" By Beth Wiseman, Barbara Cameron, Kathleen Fuller
From the kitchen of Erica McNicoll

1.5 sticks butter
1 c white sugar
1 c brown sugar
4 eggs
1 lb crunchy peanut butter
2.5 t baking soda
1/4 c flour
4.5 c quick oats
powdered sugar

1. cream together 1.5 sticks butter, 1 c white sugar, 1 c brown sugar.
2. Add 4 eggs, 1 pound crunchy peanut butter.
3. Mix until blended. Add 2.5 t baking soda, 1/4 c flour, 4.5 c quick oats.
4.1/2 pound M&M's and 12 oz chocolate chips.
5. Dough will be stiff. Form teaspoon-sized balls and roll in powdered sugar.
6. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Do not overbake.

Cheese Puffs...Basic Pâte à Choux (cream puff dough) Recipe

2011-04-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Basic Pâte à Choux (cream puff dough) Recipe
(paht-ah-shoo)
makes 20 medium puffs
From the Kitchen of Sherry Watkins

To this recipe, you can make savory (add 1 teaspoon kosher/sea salt) or sweet (add 2 teaspoons sugar)
1 cup water
1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
1 cup flour
1 good pinch of salt
1 cup eggs (4 large eggs)
Preheat oven 425F.
1. In a medium pot, bring the water and butter to a simmer on medium heat. Add the flour and with a wooden spoon or spatula, stir very quickly in one direction. Carefully watch and you’ll see that the flour starts absorbing the liquid — and a dough will form. Keep stirring to continue cooking the flour and cook off some of the water, another minute or two.
2. You can do the next step one of two ways:
• Transfer the paste to the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or to a bowl if you’re using a hand mixer.
• If you want to mix the eggs directly into the dough in the pot, let it cool slightly, 4 or 5 minutes, or cool off the pan itself by running cold water over its base if you will be mixing the eggs in that pot. You don’t want to cook the eggs too quickly.
3. Add the salt and the eggs one at a time mixing rapidly until each is combined into the paste. The paste will go from shiny to slippery to sticky as the egg is incorporated. The pâte a choux can be cooked immediately at this point or refrigerated for up to a day until ready to use.
4. Spoon the dough into a large gallon-sized plastic bag (or piping bag.) Use your hands to squeeze dough towards the bottom corner. With kitchen shears, snip off just the tippy tip of the bag, about 1/4″ of the tip. Pipe onto a baking sheet into little puffs, keeping the puffs 2-inches apart. With your finger, press down the peaks (as they can burn.) Bake at 425F for 10 minutes, then 350F for 18-30 minutes, depending on the size of your puffs.
To make gougeres (cheesy poofy puffs)
Stir in 1/2 cup finely grated gruyere cheese (or other grated hard cheese of your choice) + 1 teaspoon kosher/sea salt (1/2 teaspoon fine table salt) – I used a rasp/microplane grater to get ultra-light snowflakes of cheese so as not to weigh down the dough with heavy cheese. You can also sprinkle a bit of the cheese on top of the puffs after you’ve piped them.

AMISH CINNAMON BREAD STARTER RECIPE

2011-04-13T12:07:00.000-07:00

AMISH CINNAMON BREAD STARTER RECIPE
From the kitchen of Anna McElligott

Put 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup milk in a large Ziploc bag and following instructions below.

Day 1 Stir
Day 2 Stir
Day 3 Stir
Day 4 Stir
Day 5 Stir
Day 6 Stir
Day 7 Stir
Day 8 Stir
Day 9 Stir
Day 10 Stir
Day 11 Stir
Day 12 Stir
Day 13 Stir
Day 14 Stir
Day 15 Stir
Day 16 Stir
Day 17 Stir
Day 18 DO NOTHING
Day 19 Stir
Day 20 Stir
Day 21 Stir
Day 22 Stir and add 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup milk. Stir again.
Day 23 Stir
Day 24 Stir
Day 25 Stir
Day 26 Stir
Day 27 Add 2 cups flour, 1 cup milk, 1 cup sugar. Stir.

You should have about 4 cups starter. Keep one for your next starter. Use other three to bake. Follow baking directions on the back of this page starting with Day 10. After you save another starter, follow the Day 1-10 instructions.

Amish Cinnamon Bread
(AKA Friendship Bread)

You should have received your starter in a large Ziploc bag. Store it on your countertop. DO NOT REFRIGERATE!!!!!!

Day 1: Do Nothing.
Day 2: Mush bag TWO times during the day.
Day 3: Mush bag TWO times during the day.
Day 4: Mush bag TWO times during the day.
Day 5: Mush bag TWO times during the day.
Day 6: Add to the bag: 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup milk.
Let out as much air as possible.
Seal bag & mush thoroughly.
Day 7: Mush bag TWO times during the day.
Day 8: Mush bag TWO times during the day.
Day 9: Mush bag TWO times during the day. Bag is growing!!
Day 10: Squeeze out the contents of the bag into a large bowl.
Add to the bowl: 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup milk.
Stir thoroughly & measure out 1 cup starters into 4 Ziploc bags.
Give these bags and a copy of these instructions to enjoy.
Keep one for yourself if you want to try it again.

To the small amount in your bowl add the following and mix very well:

1 cup oil
3 eggs
2 cups flour
2 tsp. cinnamon
½ tsp. salt
1 LARGE box instant vanilla pudding mix
½ cup milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup sugar
1½ tsp. baking POWDER
½ tsp. baking SODA

If desired 1 cup chopped nuts, bananas, chocolate chips, apples, etc.

Spray 2 loaf pans with cooking spray. Sprinkle pans with cinnamon and sugar.

Bake at 325 for one hour or until done. Tomorrow starts Day 1.

Cake Pops

2011-04-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

Cake Pops
From www.ratedbymom.com

For pictures to go with the instructions click here

Materials:

1 box of white cake mix (and whatever ingredients you need to make the cake)
1 container of white frosting (I used whipped frosting, which is lighter, so I ended up using an entire XL container)
2 packages of candy melts (I used the pink ones from Michaels) They carry a variety of different colors, or you can buy the white ones and dye them to your liking. Only use gel food coloring to dye candy melts, as the liquid stuff won’t work.
1 bag of lollipop sticks (also from Michaels)
2 tb of shortening
sprinkles (optional)
large foam ring (found in the “wreath making” section at Michaels)

Step 1: Bake the Cake

You don’t need to do anything special. Just follow the instructions on the back of the box. Let it cool off completely before you work with it.

Step 2: Crumble the cake and mix in the frosting.

You really don’t need to over-think this part. Add half the can of frosting and start mixing. Keep adding more frosting to the mixture until it gets sticky enough to roll into a ball. I used a spatula to mix the cake and frosting together, but you can also use your hands to get the job done.

Step 3: Roll the cake/frosting mixture into balls.

Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Next, take small portions of your cake/frosting mixture and use your hands to roll them into small balls and place them on the lined cookie sheet. The balls should be the size of a large gum ball. If you make them too big, they will fall off the stick during the candy coating process. Also, their circumference grows when you coat them with the candy, so start out making them smaller than you want your end product to be.

Step 4: Insert the lollipop sticks.

This is what makes the cake a pop! Prepare your candy melts using the directions on the back of the package. I used the microwave directions and melted the candies in a small round tupperware container. Follow the directions carefully. If you burn the candy melts they will taste really, really bad. Not that I would know or anything. *wink, wink* Dip one end of the lollipop stick into the candy melt and then insert the same end directly into the cake ball. After all the cake balls have lollipop sticks in them, put the cookie sheet in the fridge or freezer to set.

Step 5: Cover the cake pops with the candy coating.

You might need to re-heat your candy melts again. If the mixture still seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of shortening to thin it out. I suggest putting the shortening in before you re-heat the candy melts. Carefully dunk the cake pop into the melted candy. Turn it around until it is completely covered. Then, take the cake pop out and gently turn it over and over until all the excess candy melt has dripped off. You only need a very thin layer of the candy melt.

Step 6: Stick the cake pops into a foam ring to dry and decorate them with sprinkles.

Stick the wet candy coated cake pop right into the foam ring. Before it dries, sprinkle it with whatever toppings you desire. If I could have done one thing differently, I would have purchased a larger foam ring. I ran out of drying room for my cake pops. I had to wait for them to dry before I could finish the rest of the batch. Place the foam ring full of cake pops in the fridge to harden.

Congratulations! You have just made cake pops!

Once your finished cake pops have hardened you can take them out of the foam ring and store them in a container. I used a cake pan to store mine in the fridge. I made them on a Thursday to take to a party on a Friday, and they totally held up. Look how gorgeous they turned out:

Michaels also sells small plastic baggies that you can tie over the tops of each cake pop to be used as party favors, or you can cover your foam ring in colored plastic wrap and use it to present your cake pops. I arranged my cake pops on a pretty plate and they looked great. It’s hard to go wrong with cake pops.

Wendy's Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich

2011-04-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

Wendy's Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich
By: Todd Wilbur

There once was a time when Wendy's offered this sandwich for a "limited-time-only." Apparently the tasty zing from this breaded chicken sandwich won it many loyal customers and a permanent place on the fast-food chain's menu. Now you can recreate the spicy kick of the original with a secret blend of spices in the chicken's crispy coating. Follow the same stacking order as the original, and you've just made 4 sandwich clones at a fraction of the cost of the real thing.

6-8 cups vegetable oil
1/3 cup Frank's Original Red Hot Pepper Sauce
2/3 cup water
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
4 teaspoons cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
4 chicken breast fillets
4 plain hamburger buns
8 teaspoons mayonnaise
4 lettuce leaves
4 tomato slices

1. Gather all ingredients
2. Preheat 6-8 cups of oil in a deep fryer to 350 degrees.
3. Combine the pepper sauce and water in a small bowl.
4. Combine the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, onion powder, paprika and garlic powder in another shallow bowl.
5. Pound each of the chicken pieces with a mallet until about 3/8-inch thick. Trim each breast fillet if necessary to help it fit on the bun.
6. Working with one fillet at a time, coat each piece with the flour, then dredge it in the diluted pepper sauce. Coat the chicken once again in the flour mixture and set it aside until the rest of the chicken is breaded.
7. Fry the chicken fillets for 8-12 minutes or until they are light brown and crispy. Remove the chicken to a rack or to paper towels to drain.
8. As chicken is frying, prepare each sandwich by grilling the face of the hamburger buns on a hot skillet over medium heat. Spread about 2 teaspoons of mayonnaise on the face of each of the inverted top buns.
9. Place a tomato slice onto the mayonnaise, then stack a leaf of lettuce on top of the tomato.
10. On each of the bottom buns, stack one piece of chicken. 11. Flip the top half of each sandwich onto the bottom half and serve hot.
(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes 4 sandwiches.

Wendy's Chili

2011-04-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

Wendy's Chili
By: Todd Wilbur

Here's a favorite recipe for chili that clones the stuff served at the Wendy's chain. Dave Thomas, Wendy's founder, has been serving this chili since 1969, he year the first Wendy's opened its doors. Over the years the recipe has changed a bit, but this version here is an amazing copy of the version of chili served in the early 90's. Try topping it with some chopped onion and cheddar cheese, as you can request in the restaurant.

2 pounds ground beef
One 29-ounce can tomato sauce
One 29-ounce can kidney beans (with liquid)
One 29-ounce can pinto beans (with liquid)
1 cup diced onion (1 medium onion)
1/2 cup diced green chili (2 chilies)
1/4 cup diced celery (1 stalk)
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons cumin powder
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups water

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain off the fat.
2. Using a fork, crumble the cooked beef into pea-size pieces.
3. In a large pot, combine the beef plus all the remaining ingredients, and bring to a simmer over low heat. Cook, stirring every 15 minutes, for 2 to 3 hours.
(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes about 12 servings.

Tidbits
For spicier chili, add 1/2 teaspoon more black pepper. For much spicier chili, add 1 teaspoon black pepper and a tablespoon cayenne pepper. And for a real stomach stinger, add 5 or 6 sliced jalapeno peppers to the pot. Leftovers can be frozen for several months.

Tony Roma's Baked Potato Soup

2011-04-13T07:58:00.000-07:00

Tony Roma's Baked Potato Soup
By: Todd Wilbur

Menu Description: "A house specialty full of baked potatoes and topped with Cheddar cheese, bacon and green onions."
The thick-and-creamy texture and rich taste of Tony Roma's best-selling soup can be easily cloned with basic ingredients. This TSR version is thickened with a little flour, some half-and- half and, most notably, instant mashed potatoes. Give yourself an hour to bake the potatoes and around 30 minutes to prepare the soup. Garnish each serving with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon and green onions and you will have a home kitchen Tony Roma's recreation that will surely impress.

2 medium potatoes (about 2 cups chopped)
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup diced white onion
2 tablespoons flour
4 cups chicken stock
2 cups water
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 cups instant mashed potatoes
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/8 teaspoon thyme
1 cup half and half

Garnish
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
2 green onions, chopped (green part only)

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and bake the potatoes or 1 hour or until done. When potatoes have cooked remove them from the oven to cool.
2. As potatoes cool prepare soup by melting butter in a large saucepan, and sauté onion until light brown. Add the flour to the onions and stir to make a roux.
3. Add stock, water, cornstarch, mashed potatoes, and spices to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out contents with a large spoon. Discard skin. Chop baked potato with a large knife to make chunks that are about 1/2-inch in size.
5. Add chopped baked potato and half-and-half to the saucepan, bring soup back to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer the soup for another 15 minutes or until it is thick.
6. Spoon about 1 1/2 cups of soup into a bowl and top with about a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese, a half tablespoon of crumbled bacon and a teaspoon or so of chopped green onion. Repeat for remaining servings. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Serves 6 to 8.

Original Tommy's World Famous Hamburgers

2011-04-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

Original Tommy's World Famous Hamburgers
By: Todd Wilbur

This clone recipe may be for the whole hamburger, but anybody who knows about Tommy's goes there for the chili -- and that's the part of this clone they really want. That's also the part that required the most kitchen sleuthing. Turn out it's an old chili con carne recipe created back in 1946 by Tommy's founder, Tommy Koulax, for his first hamburger stand on the corner of Beverly and Rampart Boulevards in Los Angeles. Adding the right combination of water and flour and broth and spices to the meat we can create a thick tomato-less chili sauce worthy of the gajillions of southern California college students that make late-night Tommy's runs a four-year habit. And if you don't live near one of the two-dozen Tommy's outlets, you can still get a gallon of Tommy's famous chili shipped to you. But I hope you really dig the stuff: You'll shell out around 70 bucks for the dry ice packaging and overnight shipping. And don't expect to see the ingredients on the label since the chili comes packed in a gallon-size mustard jug.

Chili
1 pound ground beef (not lean)*
1/4 cup flour plus 1 1/4 cups flour
1 1/3 cups beef broth
4 cups water
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoon grated (and then chopped) carrot
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 teaspoons dried minced onion
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

3 pounds ground beef
8 hamburger buns
16 slices Kraft cheddar cheese Singles
1/2 cup diced onion
32 to 40 hamburger pickles (slices)
8 slices large beefsteak tomato (1/2-inch thick)
1/4 cup yellow mustard

1. Prepare the chili by first browning the meat in a large saucepan over medium heat. Crumble the meat as it browns. When the meat has been entirely cooked (7 to 10 minutes), pour the meat into a strainer over a large cup or saucepan. Let the fat drip out of the meat for about 5 minutes, then return the meat back to the first saucepan. Cover and set aside.
2. With the fat from the meat, we will now make a roux -- a French contribution to thicker sauces and gravies usually made with fat and flour. Heat the drippings in a saucepan over medium heat (you should have drained off around 1/2 cup of the stuff). When the fat is hot, add 1/4 cup flour to the pan and stir well. Reduce heat to medium/low, and continue to heat the roux, stirring often until it is a rich caramel color. This should take from 10 to 15 minutes. Add the beef broth to the pan and stir. Remove from heat.
3. Meanwhile, back at the other pan, add the water to the beef, then whisk in the remaining 1 1/4 cups flour. Add the ro ux/broth mixture and the other chili ingredients and whisk until blended. Make sure your grated carrot is chopped up to the size of rice before you add it.
4. Crank the heat up to medium/high. Stir often until you see bubbles forming on the surface of the chili. Turn the heat down to medium/low, and continue to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until thick. The chili should be calmly bubbling like lava as it simmers. When it's done cooking, take the chili off the heat, cover it, and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour before using it on the burgers. It should thicken to a tasty brown paste as it sits.
5. To make your hamburgers, you'll first divide 3 pounds of hamburger into 16 portions of 3 ounces each. Grill the burgers on in a hot skillet or on an indoor griddle for 4 to 5 minutes per side or until done. Use some salt and pepper on each patty.
6. Build the burgers by lightly toasting the faces of the hamburger buns. Turn them over into a hot skillet or a griddle on medium heat.
7. Place one patty onto the bottom bun.
8. Position two slices of cheese on the meat.
9. Place another beef patty on the cheese.
10. Spoon about 1/3 cup of chili onto the beef patty.
11. Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of diced onion onto the chili. 12. Arrange 4 to 5 pickle slices on the onion. 13. Place a thick slice of tomato on next. 14. Spread mustard over the face of the top bun and top off your hamburger by turning this bun over onto the tomato.
(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes 8 burgers. (6 cups of chili.)
*Tidbits Make sure the ground beef you use has a fat content of at least 20 percent. This way you'll be sure to get enough fat to make the roux.

Swiss Miss Fat-Free Tapioca Pudding

2011-04-13T07:54:00.000-07:00

Swiss Miss Fat-Free Tapioca Pudding
By: Todd Wilbur

When the first instant hot cocoa mix was developed in the fifties, it was available only to the airlines in individual portions for passengers and was called Brown Swiss. This mix was so popular that the company packaged it for sale in the grocery stores and changed the name to Swiss Miss. In the seventies, the first Swiss Miss Puddings were introduced and quickly became the leader of dairy case puddings. When the fat-free versions of the puddings were introduced some 23 years later, they, too, would become a popular favorite.

No sugar needs to be added to this recipe that recreates one of the best-tasting brands of fat- free pudding on the market. The condensed milk is enough to sweeten the pudding; plus it provides a creamy consistency, which, along with the cornstarch, helps replace fat found in the full-fat version of this tasty tapioca treat. It's a simple recipe to make and you won't even "miss" the fat.

2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 1/2 cups fat-free milk
1/2 cup sweetened condensed skim milk
dash salt
2 1/2 tablespoons instant tapioca
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Combine the cornstarch with the fat-free milk in a medium saucepan and whisk thoroughly to dissolve the cornstarch.
2. Add the condensed milk, salt, and tapioca to the pan. Stir until smooth and then set the pan aside for 5 minutes.
3. After 5 minutes, bring the mixture to a boil over medium/low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens, then cover and remove from the heat. Let the pudding sit, covered, for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in the vanilla, then transfer the pudding to serving cups. Cover the cups with plastic wrap and let them chill for at least 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts Serving size – 3/4 cup Total servings – 4 Fat (per serving) – 0g Calories (per serving) – 140

The Soup Nazi's Cream of Sweet Potato Soup

2011-04-13T07:53:00.000-07:00

The Soup Nazi's Cream of Sweet Potato Soup
By: Todd Wilbur

New Yorkers have lined up around the block for years now to get a hot cup of Al Yeganeh's delicious soup at Soup Kitchen International. Many are familiar with the demands: "Pick the soup you want!", "Have your money ready!", and "Move to the extreme left after ordering!"
Customers know if they don't stick to the rules, they'll be quickly scolded and may not get served; even after waiting for as long as two hours to get to the front of the line. This is precisely how the non-smiling Yeganeh was portrayed by actor Larry Thomas in Seinfeld episode number 115, when he forever became known as the "Soup Nazi." (That's the real guy in the picture, as cheerful as ever.)

In response to many e-mails over the last several weeks, TSR will be celebrating the final days of TV's "show about nothing", with a special tribute. Starting this week, and until the final show on May 14, TSR will present a new weekly kitchen clone for the Soup Nazi's most popular creations. I'll kick it all off with this Cream of Sweet Potato Soup, and the next several recipes will come each Thursday night (including this week), until Seinfeld is no more. In addition to the recipes, I'll share more about the Soup Nazi, including my very brief interview with the guy, which ended when I was sternly reprimanded. But at least I still got my soup. And just like in the show, it was indescribably delicious.

4 sweet potatoes (about 1 pound each)
8 cups water
1/3 cup butter
1/2 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons half and half
2 teaspoons salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper dash thyme
1 cup cashews (split in half)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45 minutes or until they are soft. Cool the potatoes until they can be handled.
2. Peel away the skin, then put the potatoes into a large bowl. Mash the potatoes for 15-20 seconds, but you don't need to mash them until they are entirely smooth.
3. Spoon the mashed sweet potato into a large saucepan over medium/high heat, add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
4. When the soup begins to boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 50-60 minutes. Cashews should be soft. Serve hot with an attitude.
(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 6-8 servings.

Sonic Cherry Limeade

2011-04-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

Sonic Cherry Limeade
By: Todd Wilbur

Here's the signature drink from the chain that's reviving the drive-up burger joint, just like a scene out of American Graffitti or Happy Days. At this growing chain you pull up to a stall and servers bring food out to your car as they did in the 40's and 50's. This recipe makes a simple old-fashioned drink by combining 7-Up with cherry juice and some wedges of lime. Very refreshing! (according to Potsy).

1 cup Sprite
1/4 cup cherry juice (Libby is good)
2-3 lime wedges (each 1/8 lime)

1. Pour Sprite into a glass over ice.
2. Add cherry juice.
3. Add 2-3 lime wedges, squeezing slightly before dropping each one in. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Serves 1.

Snapple Iced Tea (Lemon Flavor)

2011-04-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

Snapple Iced Tea (Lemon Flavor)
By: Todd Wilbur

Here's a quick and easy recipe for the brand of ice tea that hit the market and quickly blew away competitors Lipton and Nestea. Between 1988 and 1992 Snapple tea sales increased a whopping 1,300 percent. And if you like Snapple ice tea, you'll find this recipe will save you some cash. While a 16-ounce bottle of Snapple tea costs around $1.00, this top secret clone cost about 15 cents -- for the same amount.

2 quarts (8 cups) water
3 Lipton tea bags (orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea blend)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup plus
2 tablespoons lemon juice

1. Boil the water in a large saucepan over high heat.
2. When the water comes to a rapid boil, turn off the heat, put the tea bags into the water, and cover.
3. After the tea has steeped about 1 hour, pour the sugar into a 2-quart pitcher, then add the tea. The tea should still be warm, so the sugar will dissolve easily.
4. Add the lemon juice. Chill. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 2 quarts.

Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing

2011-04-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing
By: Todd Wilbur

Ask and you shall receive. To answer many requests, I've whipped up this killer clone for the mouth-watering caesar salad dressing from America's favorite steakhouse chain. You can't buy it in the stores, but now you can make it from scratch in mere minutes. Best of all, this dressing keeps for weeks and weeks in the fridge in a covered container (if it's even around that long).

1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup egg substitute
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon anchovy paste
2 cloves garlic, pressed
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon coarse ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, crushed fine

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat ingredients for about 1 minute.
2. Cover bowl and chill for several hours so that flavors can develop. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes approximately 2 cups.

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

2011-04-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
By: Todd Wilbur

It's amazing how many lousy clones for this delicious chili-like soup from Olive Garden are floating around on the Web. Some are shared on message boards, others are displayed on sites in a collection of "actual restaurant recipes" (yeah, right!). But they all leave out obvious ingredients you can see, like the carrots, ground beef, or two kinds of beans. Others don't get the pasta right -- it's obviously ditali pasta (short little tubes). Then there's the recipe that really squeezed the seeds from my gourd -- one that's floating around in MasterCook format that lists "Top Secret Recipes" as the source. But, wait a minute! I've never before created a clone for this dish -- not here on the site, and not in any book. So, after logging some time over a chopping block, an open flame, and a couple tasty glasses of Merlot, out popped this puppy. And this is the one, kitchen cloners! If you want the taste of Pasta e Fagioli at home, this is the only recipe that will fool in a side -by-side taste test. Accept no other imitation imitation!

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced (1 cup)
1 large carrot, julienned (1 cup)
3 stalks celery, chopped (1 cup)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes
1 15-ounce can red kidney beans (with liquid)
1 15-ounce can great northern beans (with liquid)
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
1 12-ounce can V-8 juice
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon basil
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 pound (1/2 pkg.)
ditali pasta

1. Brown the ground beef in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Drain off most of the fat.
2. Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic and sauté for 10 minutes.
3. Add remaining ingredients, except pasta, and simmer for 1 hour.
4. About 50 minutes into simmer time, cook the pasta in 1 1/2 to 2 quarts of boiling water over high heat. Cook for 10 minutes or just until pasta is al dente, or slightly tough. Drain.
5. Add the pasta to the large pot of soup. Simmer for 5-10 minutes and serve.
(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Serves 8.

Mimi's Cafe French Market Onion Soup

2011-04-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

Mimi's Cafe French Market Onion Soup
By: Todd Wilbur

You might not imagine a tough World War II flying ace would open a restaurant called "Mimi's," but that's exactly what happened in the 70's. Arthur J. Simms flew spy missions over France during the war and helped liberate a small French town near Versailles. After the war Arthur ran the commissary at MGM studios in Hollywood, stuffing the bellies of big-time celebs like Judy Garland, Clark Gable and Mickey Rooney. He later joined his son Tom in several restaurant ventures including one called "French Quarter" in West Hollywood. This was the prototype for the French-themed Mimi's Cafe. In 1978, the first Mimi's opened in Anaheim, California. Today there's over 40 Mimi's in the chain with a new one opening every other week; all of them serving this amazing onion soup that can now be part of your culinary repertoire. Oui!

1/4 cup butter
3 medium white onions,
sliced 3 14-ounce cans beef broth (Swanson is best)
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3 tablespoons Kraft grated parmesan cheese
6 to 12 slices French bread (baguette)
6 slices Swiss cheese
6 slices mozzarella cheese
6 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese

1. Sauté onions in melted butter in a large soup pot or saucepan for 15 to 20 minutes or until onions begin to brown and turn transparent.
2. Add beef broth, salt and garlic powder to onions. Bring mixture to a boil, then re duce heat and simmer uncovered for 1 hour. Add the grated parmesan cheese in the last 10 minutes of cooking the soup.
3. When soup is done, preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the French bread slices for about 10 to 12 minutes or until they begin to brown. When bread is done, set oven to broil.
4. Build each serving of soup by spooning about 1 cup of soup into an oven-safe bowl. Float a toasted slice or two of bread on top of the soup, then add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of that. Place a slice of mozzarella on next and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of shredded parmesan cheese over the top of the other cheeses.
5. Place the soup bowl on a baking sheet and broil for 5 to 6 minutes or until the cheese begins to brown. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 6 servings.

Mimi's Cafe Carrot Raisin Bread

2011-04-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

Mimi's Cafe Carrot Raisin Bread
By: Todd Wilbur

It's dark, moist and delicious. And it comes in a bread basket to your table at this French- themed west coast casual restaurant. Now the tastiest carrot bread ever can be yours to create at home with a couple of grated carrots, molasses, raisins and chopped walnuts. You'll be baking this one in the oven for at least an hour. That should be enough time to warm up the house and send amazing smells wafting through every room. Line the carpet with newspaper to catch the family drool.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 eggs
1/4 cup molasses
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup shredded carrot
1 cup raisins
3/4 cup chopped walnuts

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
3. In another bowl, combine oil, sugar, eggs, molasses, and vanilla with an electric mixer. Add shredded carrot and mix. Add raisins and walnuts and mix well by hand.
4. Pour flour mixture into the other ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into two ungreased 8-inch loaf pans. Bake for 60 minutes, or until done. (http://www.tops ecretrecipes.com) Makes 2 loaves.

Lone Star Steakhouse Baked Sweet Potato

2011-04-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

Lone Star Steakhouse Baked Sweet Potato
By: Todd Wilbur

It saddles on up next to your entree at this huge steakhouse chain, but it's not what it claims to be. Sure, the menu says "baked sweet potato," but you're actually getting a sweet and tender red-skinned yam underneath all that yummy melted butter and cinnamon/sugar. And don't just get any yam for this top secret clone. You want to use garnet yams, if you have a choice. Then be sure to cook them long enough that the sugar in the yams begins to squirt out and burn in a couple of spots. Each yam should be tender, but not mushy. The skin on the outside will turn from red to greyish-brown, and inside it will be a hearty shade of black.

4 garnet yams
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 cup whipped butter

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Bake yams for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. When they are done, they will be very soft in the center, and you will see liquid from the potato oozing out and charring. When the potato is sliced open, the inside of the skin will be charred black from the caramelizing sugar in the potato. This is a perfectly cooked potato.
2. To serve, slice a potato down the center. Add two tablespoons of whipped butter, then sprinkle some cinnamon/sugar over the top. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes 4 servings.

Lawry's Seasoned Salt

2011-04-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

Lawry's Seasoned Salt
By: Todd Wilbur

"Shake on meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Accent vegetables, salads and popcorn. Use while cooking, or at the table." reads the label of one of America's most popular spice blends. This seven-ingredient clone of Lawry's Seasoned Salt can be made in a small bowl, but is best used when poured into an old spice bottle that you've cleaned out and saved. You've got one of those somewhere, right?

2 tablespoons salt
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cornstarch

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well.
2. Pour blend into an empty spice bottle to store. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 1/4 cup.

Kraft Shake'n Bake (Original)

2011-04-13T07:37:00.000-07:00

Kraft Shake'n Bake (Original)
By: Todd Wilbur

Need a recipe that copies Shake'n Bake in a pinch? Or maybe you don't feel like coughing up the dough for the real thing. Here's the TSR solution for a quick clone that will give you the same texture and flavor of Kraft Shake'n Bake using very common ingredients. You may notice the color is a bit different in this clone when compared to the real thing. That's because this recipe doesn't include beet powder -- a hard-to-find ingredient that lends a dark orange tint to the original. But sink your teeth into the chicken (baked the same way as described on the Shake'n Bake box) and you'll swear it's the same stuff.

1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon corn flake crumbs
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon sugar
scant 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
scant 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir to combine.
2. Prepare chicken following the same technique as described on the box of the original mix using 2 1/2 lb. of bone -in chicken (6 to 8 pieces, with or without skin) or 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast halves Preheat your oven to 400 degrees, then moisten the chicken with water. Use a large plastic bag for the coating and use the same steps as described on the original package:

"Shake moistened chicken, 1 to 2 pieces at a time, in shaker bag with coating mixture. Discard any remaining mixture and bag. Bake at 400 degrees in ungreased or foil-lined 15x10x1-inch baking pan until cooked through -- BONE-IN: 45 minutes/BONELESS: 20 minutes"
Serves 4. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)

KFC Potato Salad

2011-04-13T07:35:00.002-07:00

KFC Potato Salad
By: Todd Wilbur

Here's a simple clone for the potato salad that is purchased as a side dish from America's largest fast food chicken chain. Some of the skin is left on the potatoes in the real thing, so you don't have to peel them too thoroughly (great news for lazy cooks like me!). Just be sure to chop your potatoes into cubes that are approximately 1/2-inch thick, and then let the salad marinate for at least 4 hours so that the flavors can properly develop. If you let the salad chill overnight, it tastes even better. Tune in for more KFC clone recipes each week this month!

2 pounds russet potatoes
1 cup mayonnaise
4 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
4 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons minced white onion
2 teaspoons prepared mustard
1 teaspoon vinegar
1 teaspoon minced celery
1 teaspoon diced pimentos
1/2 teaspoon shredded carrot
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon pepper dash salt

1. Lightly peel the potatoes (you don't have to get all of the skin off) then chop them into bite-size pieces and boil in 6 cups of boiling, salted water for 7-10 minutes. The potato chucks should be tender, yet slightly tough in the middle when done. Drain and rinse potatoes with cold water.
2. In a medium bowl, combine remaining ingredients and whisk until smooth.
3. Poured drained potatoes into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the potatoes and mix until well-combined.
4. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours. Overnight is best. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 6 cups (about 8 servings).

KFC Macaroni & Cheese

2011-04-13T07:35:00.001-07:00

KFC Macaroni & Cheese
By: Todd Wilbur

Here's a clone for another of KFC's famous side dishes. We'll use easy-to-melt Velveeta as the main ingredient for the cheese sauce with its very smooth texture. Then a bit of cheddar cheese is added to give the sauce a sharp cheddary zing like the original. It's a very simple recipe that will take only 15 minutes to prepare. That's great news if you're a lazy cook like me who wants to dig right into the tasty vittles.

6 cups water
1 1/3 cups elbow macaroni
4 ounces Velveeta cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons whole milk
1/4 teaspoon salt

1. Bring water to a boil over high heat in a medium saucepan. Add elbow macaroni to the water and cook it for 10 to 12 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
2. While the macaroni is boiling, prepare the cheese sauce by combining the remaining ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir often as the cheese melts into a smooth consistency.
3. When the macaroni is done, strain it and then pour it back into the same pan, without the water. 4. Add the cheese sauce to the pan and stir gently until the macaroni is well-coated with the cheese. Serve immediately while hot. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes about 3 servings.

KFC Cole Slaw

2011-04-12T16:14:00.000-07:00

KFC Cole Slaw
By: Todd Wilbur

If you've ever seen a clone recipe for KFC Cole Slaw floating around on the Internet, it probably looks like this. That's because this formula has become one of the most copied & pasted recipes from the first book, "Top Secret Recipes." It's also one of the most requested recipes on the TSR Message Board. So, to fulfill all those requests, and to stake claim to a recipe that's rarely sourced as a TSR original, here's the killer recipe to clone the world's best slaw. And, because I love to out-clone the "copycats", I'm going to take it one step further. Tune in next week for an original version of this clone recipe that tastes just like the real thing but includes only five ingredients...and is completely fat free! Don't be lieve it? Be here next Monday.

8 cups finely chopped cabbage (about 1 head)
1/4 cup shredded carrot (1 medium carrot)
2 tablespoons minced onion
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

1. Be sure cabbage and carrots are chopped up into very fine pieces (about the size of rice).
2. Combine the sugar, salt, pepper, milk, mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, and lemon juice in a large bowl and beat until smooth.
3. Add the cabbage, carrots, and onion, and mix well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Serves 10-12. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)

Kellogg's Cocoa Rice Krispies Treats

2011-04-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

Kellogg's Cocoa Rice Krispies Treats
By: Todd Wilbur

It's the Rice Krispies Treat for all you chocolate lovers. By simply replacing regular Rice Krispies with Kellogg's Cocoa Krispies, then adding a bit of cocoa to the recipe, we can clone the exact flavor of the product you otherwise have to buy in boxes in the grocery store. This recipe makes 16 of the crunchy brown bars, or the equivalent of two boxes of the real thing.

3 tablespoons margarine
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 cups miniature marshmallows
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
4 teaspoons cocoa
6 cups Cocoa Krispies cereal non-stick cooking spray

1. Combine margarine and salt in a large saucepan over low heat.
2. When margarine has melted, add marshmallows and vanilla and stir until marshmallows have melted. Add cocoa and stir well. Remove from heat.
3. Add Cocoa Krispies and stir until the cereal is well-coated with the melted marshmallow mixture.
4. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with a light coating of non-stick cooking spray. Pour the mixture into the dish and, using wax paper or lightly greased hands, press down until it's flat in the dish. Cool. Slice into 16 bars. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 16 bars.

Pancakes from International House of Pancakes

2011-04-12T16:11:00.000-07:00

Pancakes from International House of Pancakes
By: Todd Wilbur

Even though the early press runs of Top Secret Recipes excluded buttermilk in this recipe -- a very important ingredient if you really wa nt pourable batter -- many figured out the missing ingredient on their own and the error was quickly corrected in later copies. Now we just like to call those copies of the book the "Collector's Editions." For any of you who were lucky enough to get one of the "Collector's Editions" we'd liked to say "Congratulations!" Now here's the recipe, in its entirety, to make pancakes just like those served every day at IHOP.

Nonstick Spray
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 egg
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 heaping teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup cooking oil pinch of salt

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Use a pan with a nonstick surface or apply a little nonstick spray.
2. In a blender or with a mixer, combine all of the remaining ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the batter by spoonfuls into the hot pan, forming 5-inch circles.
4. When the edges appear to harden, flip the pancakes. They should be golden brown.
5. Cook pancakes on the other side for same amount of time, until golden brown.

I.H.O.P. Country Griddle Cakes

2011-04-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

I.H.O.P. Country Griddle Cakes
By: Todd Wilbur

This nationwide chain, which is known for it's big bargain breakfasts, serves an impressive number of non-breakfast items as well. In 1997, I.H.O.P. dished out over 6 million pounds of french fries and over half a million gallons of soft drinks. But it's the Country Griddle Cakes on the breakfast menu that inspired this Top Secret Recipe. The unique flavor and texture of this clone comes from the Cream of Wheat in the batter. Now you can have your pancakes, and eat your cereal too.

nonstick spray
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1/3 cup instant Cream of Wheat (dry)
1 egg
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Apply nonstick spray.
2. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl with a mixer set on high speed. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the batter by 1/3-cup portions into the hot pan and cook pancakes for 1-2 minutes per side or until brown. Repeat with remaining batter. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 8-10 pancakes.

Hot Dog on a Stick Hot Dog

2011-04-12T16:08:00.000-07:00

Hot Dog on a Stick Hot Dog
By: Todd Wilbur

One hot summer day in 1946 Dave Barham was inspired to dip a hot dog into his mother's cornbread batter, then deep fry it to a golden brown. The first Hot Dog on a Stick was born, and
Dave soon found a quaint Santa Monica, California location near the beach to offer his new creation along with a tall glass of ice-cold lemonade and mustard on the side.
The chain uses only turkey dogs for this treat, so we'll do the same. Just be sure you find the shorter dogs, not "bun-length." This time size does matter. For the stick, simply snag some of the
disposable wood chopsticks from a local Chinese or Japanese food restaurant next time you're there.

2 cups flour
3/4 cup corn meal
1/2 cup sugar
1 3/4 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 3/4 cups fat-free milk
2 egg yolks, slightly beaten
10 turkey hot dogs
8-10 cups of vegetable oil
5 pairs of chopsticks

1. Preheat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 375 degrees.
2. Combine the flour, corn meal, sugar, salt and baking soda in a large bowl.
3. Combine the milk and egg yolks to the dry ingredients and mix with an electric mixer on high speed until batter is smooth.
4. Dry off the hot dogs with a paper towel. Jab the thin end of a single chopstick about halfway into the end of each hot dog.
5. When the oil is hot, tip the bowl of batter so that you can completely coat each hot dog. Roll the hot dog in the batter until it is entirely covered with batter.
6. Hold the hot dog up by the stick and let some of the batter drip off. Quickly submerge the hot dog in the oil and spin it slowly so that the coating cooks evenly. After about 20 seconds you can use a lid to the deep fryer or pan to put weight on the stick, keeping the hot dog fully immersed in the oil. You can cook a couple dogs at a time this way. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until coating is dark brown. Turn them once or twice as they cook. Drain on paper towels while cooling, and repeat with remaining hot dogs. (www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 10 hot dogs.

Hard Rock Cafe Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

2011-04-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

Hard Rock Cafe Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
By: Todd Wilbur

It's the chunkiest dang chicken soup you'll ever slurp down and it comes from the first worldwide theme eatery and hip hangout. Crank up the rock 'n roll and throw all this good stuff into a pot and enjoy this final secret recipe in our series of mouth-watering soup clones. Bah-bye

1 pound chicken breast fillets
1 pound chicken thigh fillets
vegetable oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup diced celery
4 cups chicken stock
2 cups water
1 cup sliced carrot
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon minced fresh parsley
2 cups egg noodles
Garnish minced fresh parsley

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Rub a little vegetable oil over the surface of each piece of chicken and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oven when it's done and set it aside to cool.
3. Melt the butter in a large saucepan or dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion and celery in the saucepan for just 4 to 5 minutes. You don't want to brown the veggies.
4. Dice the chicken and add it to the pot along with the remaining ingredients, except the noodles.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the carrots are soft.
6. Add the noodles and simmer for an additional 15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Serve with a pinch of minced fresh parsley sprinkled on top. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 6 servings.

Hard Rock Cafe Cole Slaw

2011-04-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

Hard Rock Cafe Cole Slaw
By: Todd Wilbur

If you want the authentic Hard Rock Cafe Pig Sandwich experience, you just have to serve your clone of that pulled-pork sandwich with this creamy, delicious cole slaw on the side. Even if you don't whip up the sandwich, you'll want to dive into a batch of this secret slaw. It's just too easy to make, and Who Wants to be a Millionaire? isn't on tonight. But be sure to let the stuff hibernate in the fridge for a day or two after you toss it. That's the only way to get the flavors up to dancing the perfect tastebud mambo.

1 1/3 cups mayonnaise
3 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons plus
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons milk
dash salt
8 cups chopped cabbage (1 head)
1/2 cup shredded carrot

1. Combine all ingredients except the cabbage and carrots in a large bowl and blend until smooth with an electric mixer.
2. Add cabbage and carrots and toss well.
3. Cover and chill overnight in the refrigerator. The flavors fully de velop after 24 to 48 hours. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Serves 6 to 8 as a side dish.

Grandma's Oatmeal Raisin Big Cookies

2011-04-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

Grandma's Oatmeal Raisin Big Cookies
By: Todd Wilbur

Grandma's Cookie Company was founded back in 1914 by Foster Wheeler, but it wasn't until 1977 that the company introduced the popular Big Cookie. This large, soft cookie comes two-to-a-pack and is offered in several varieties, including oatmeal raisin. Now you can bake up a couple batches all your own with this kitchen clone. Just be sure not to over do it in the oven. You want these cookies soft and chewy when cool -- just like a happy grandma would make 'em - - so take them out when they are just beginning to turn light brown around the edges.

1/2 cup raisins
1/3 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
1 egg
1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups oats (not instant)
2 teaspoons baking soda
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raisins

1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees.
2. Combine raisins with water in a food processor and blend on high speed for about 1 minute or until very smooth.
3. Combine this raisin puree with the vegetable shortening, egg, brown sugar and vanilla in a large bowl. Mix well with electric mixer until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the oats, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Pour this dry mixture into the wet mixture and mix well until ingredients are incorporated. Mix in raisins.
5. Roll 3 tablespoon portions of the dough into a ball in your hands and press to 1/2-inch flat on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, or the cookies will not be chewy. Store in a sealed container. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 16 to 18 cookies.

Chili's Southwestern Vegetable Soup

2011-04-12T16:01:00.000-07:00

Chili's Southwestern Vegetable Soup
By: Todd Wilbur

If you like a soup that's packed with veggies, that's low in fat, and has some of that Southwestern zing to it, this is the one for you. Just toss all the ingredients in a pot and simmer.
Garnish with some shredded cheese and crumbled tortillas, and prepare to take the chill off.

6 cups chicken broth (Swanson is best)
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup water
1 cup canned dark red kidney beans, with liquid
1 cup frozen yellow cut corn
1 cup frozen cut green beans
1 4-ounce can diced green chilies
1/2 cup diced Spanish onion 1/2 cup tomato sauce
6 corn tortillas, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
dash garlic powder

Garnish 1 cup grated cheddar/jack cheese blend 1 cup crumbled corn tortilla chips

1. Combine all the soup ingredients in a large saucepan or soup pot over high heat. Be sure to mince the corn tortillas into small pieces with a sharp knife before adding them to the soup.
2. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the soup has thickened and tortilla pieces have mostly dissolved.
3. To serve soup ladle 1 1/2 cups into a bowl. Sprinkle a heaping tablespoon of the grated cheddar/jack cheese blend over the top of the soup, and then a heaping tablespoon of crumbled corn tortilla chips over the cheese. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 6 servings.

Chili's Calypso Cooler

2011-04-12T16:00:00.000-07:00

Chili's Calypso Cooler
By: Todd Wilbur
Ever order one of those expensive specialty drinks off those shiny, full-color restaurant table- stand cards and wish you ha d the recipe? Well, this is one of those drinks, off of one of those cards, from the popular Chili's chain. It's a great one to make while the weather's still hot (or anytime), and can be made in a much larger quantity for a party-time punch bowl...with a punch.

2 shots Captain Morgan Spiced Rum
1 shot peach Schnapps
1 shot grenadine
1 cup orange juice
ice
orange wedge
maraschino cherry

1. Combine the rum, peach schnapps orange juice and grenadine in a shaker. Shake well.
2. Pour drink over ice cubes or crushed ice in a big glass. Add an orange wedge and a cherry.
(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes one drink.

Chevys Garlic Mashed Potatoes

2011-04-12T15:59:00.000-07:00

Chevys Garlic Mashed Potatoes
By: Todd Wilbur

This easy-to-clone dish comes with many of the tasty entrees at the restaurant chain or can be ordered up, pronto, on the side. It's a nice clone to have around since it goes well with so many
dishes, Mexican or otherwise. Just give yourself the time to bake and cool the potatoes. Be here at TSR next week for a big clone request from the same "always fresh ingredients" Mexican food chain. It's for that muy delicioso salsa, baby! Si, si, si. See you then.

4 medium/large russet potatoes
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (3-4 cloves)
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup cream
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Bake the potatoes by first rubbing them lightly with oil and then baking them in the preheated oven for 1 hour until they are tender. Cool.
3. Mash potatoes and remove about half of the skin. You want to leave the rest in.
4. Melt the butter in a large suacepan over medium heat, then add garlic and saute for 5 minutes.
5. Add the remaining ingredients to the pan and cook for 5-10 minutes while stirring often until garlic mashed potatoes are very hot. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Serves 4.

California Pizza Kitchen Dakota Smashed Pea & Barley Soup

2011-04-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

California Pizza Kitchen
Dakota Smashed Pea & Barley Soup
By: Todd Wilbur

Got one of those cool hand blenders? You know, the kind of gadget that used to be pitched on those annoying yet compelling late-night infomercials? It comes in handy for this recipe, which
requires the split peas to be smashed into a smooth consistency, just like the original. If you don't have a hand mixer, a standard blender works just fine. This soup is very tasty and very low in fat. And the barley gives it a special chunky consistency and added flavor that isn't found in most pea soups.

2 cups split peas
6 cups water
2 14.5-ounce cans chicken broth (4 cups)
1/3 cup minced onion
1 large clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
dash dried thyme
1/2 cup barley
6 cups water
2 medium carrots, diced (about 1 cup)
1/2 stalk celery, diced (1/4 cup)
Garnish chopped green onion

1. Rinse and drain the split peas, then add them to a large pot with 6 cups of water, chicken broth, onion, garlic, lemon juice, salt, sugar, parsley, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 75 minutes or until the peas are soft. 2. While the peas are cooking, combine the barley with 6 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 75 minutes or until the barley is soft and most of the water has been absorbed.
3. When the split pea mixture has become a thick soup, use a handheld blender to puree the peas until the mixture is smooth. You may also use a standard blender or food processor for this step, pureeing the soup in batches. Alternately, if you like, you may skip this step, keeping the soup rather chunky. It's still good this way, just not as smooth as the real thing.
4. Drain the barley mixture in a sieve or colander and add it to the split pea mixture. Add the
carrots and celery and continue to simmer the soup for 15 to 30 minutes or until the carrots are tender. Stir occasionally. Turn off the heat, cover the soup, and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Garnish each serving with a little chopped green onion. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes 8 servings.

Boston Market Meatloaf

2011-04-12T15:55:00.000-07:00

Boston Market Meatloaf
By: Todd Wilbur

If you already have a recipe that claims to be a clone for this delicious meatloaf...you can now toss it out, purge if from your hard drive, burn all hard copies. No clone recipe that I've found yet -- and there are several circulating -- has come even close to the tender, tasty meatloaf you
can get from this popular chain. Don't be fooled! To make a REAL clone, first thing you've got to do is use ground sirloin, just as the restaurant chain does. And then you need to know how to make the special sauce that goes into the meatloaf and on top (no it's not ketchup and it's not V- 8). And there's no minced onion in there (just look at it!), or onion soup mix for that matter. So, search no more for the perfect clone of Boston Market's tasty meatloaf. You've now got the result of days and days of vigorous testing. Even if you don't normally enjoy meatloaf, this one you'll be a cravin'.

1 cup tomato sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons Kraft original barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 1/2 pounds ground sirloin (10% fat)
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
dash garlic powder

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Combine the tomato sauce, barbecue sauce and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat the mixture until it begins to bubble, stirring often, then remove it from the heat.
3. In a large bowl, add all but 2 tablespoons of the tomato sauce to the meat. Use a large wooden spoon or your hands to work the sauce into the meat until it is very well combined.
4. Combine the remaining ingredients with the ground sirloin-- flour, salt, onion powder and ground pepper. Use the wooden spoon or your hands to work the spices and flour into the meat.
5. Load the meat into a loaf pan (preferably a meatloaf pan with two sections which allows the fat to drain, but if you don't have one of those a regular loaf pan will work). Wrap foil over the pan and place it into the oven for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes, take the meatloaf from the oven, remove the foil and, if you aren't using a meatloaf pan, drain the fat.
7. Using a knife, slice the meatloaf all the way through into 8 slices while it is still in the pan. This will help to cook the center of the meatloaf. Pour the remaining 2 tablespoons of sauce over the top of the meatloaf, in a stream down the center. Don't spread the sauce.
8. Place the meatloaf back into the oven, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes or until it is done. Remove and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Serves 4.

Benihana Ginger Salad Dressing

2011-04-12T15:53:00.000-07:00

Benihana Ginger Salad Dressing
By: Todd Wilbur

As far as salad dressings go, this is one of the most requested, and tasty. At the Benihana chain of hibachi grill restaurants, you are served a side salad before your meal that is doused
with this tangy, slightly sweet, fresh ginger dressing. This Top Secret Recipes version of that dressing is a real cinch to make, once you've got the ingredients. Just dump everything into a blender, whiz it, and you're set. Although this recipe is inspired by the many variations of the clone recipe that are floating around (and that I have received by e-mail), you should know that this is an original never-before -published creation that comes closer to the original product than any other version I have seen. See what you think.

1/2 cup minced onion 1/2 cup peanut oil 1/3 cup rice vinegar 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger 2 tablespoons minced celery
2 tablespoons ketchup 4 teaspoons soy sauce 2 teaspoons sugar 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds or until all of the ginger is well-pureed. (http://www.topsecretrecipes.com) Makes 1 3/4 cups.

Applebee's Baked French Onion Soup

2011-04-12T15:51:00.000-07:00

Applebee's Baked French Onion Soup
By Todd Wilbur

Don't even try to find this one on the menu at Applebee's, because it isn't there; though it's the
most popular soup served each day at this huge restaurant chain. This is the first of several big-
time soup clones we'll unveil here in the next few weeks to help get you through the cold winter
months. And they're all a cinch to make. Just be sure you have some oven-safe soup bowls for
this one, since we'll have to broil it a bit before serving. Under the gooey melted provolone of the
original version you get from Applebee's is a unique round crouton that's made from bread
similar to a hamburger bun. So that's exactly what we'll use in our clone.

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
6 medium white onions, sliced
8 cups beef broth (Swanson is best)
1 cup water
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
5 plain hamburger buns
10 slices provolone cheese
10 teaspoons shredded parmesan cheese

1. Add 3 tablespoons oil to a large soup pot or saucepan over medium/high heat. Add the sliced
onions and sauté for 20 minutes until the onions begin to soften and start to become translucent.
You don't want them to brown.

2. Add the beef broth, water, salt, garlic powder and black pepper to the pan and bring mixture
to a boil. When soup begins to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. To make the croutons cut off the top half of each top of the hamburger bun so that the bread is
the same thickness as the bottom half of each bun. Throw the tops away. Now you should have 10
round pieces of bread -- 5 bottom buns, and 5 top buns with the tops cut off. Preheat oven to 325
degrees. Place the bread in the the oven directly on the rack and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or
until each piece is golden brown and crispy. Set these croutons aside until you need them.
4. When the soup is done, spoon about 1 cup into an oven-safe bowl. Float a crouton on top of the
soup, then place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the crouton. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of
shredded parmesan cheese over the provolone.
5. Place the bowl into your oven set to high broil. Broil the soup for 5 to 6 minutes or until the
cheese is melted and starting to brown (you may need to broil longer if you are making more
than one bowl at a time). Sprinkle an additional 1/2 teaspoon of shredded parmesan cheese over
the top of the soup and serve. Repeat process to pre pare remaining servings.
(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes 10 servings.