THE HOME OF THE GOLDENPAWSCOOKBOOK.By“MarthaPhilbeck”<goldenpaws@embarqmail.com>www.homeofthegoldenpaws.comAbouttheauthor.

Icomefromacookingfamily.Mygrandmotherwastheoldestof8.Shelearnedtocookearly andhad to quit school in the8th grade to help out at home.Foodwas raised andpreservedfor thewinter.Therewasnoelectricity.Meatwasdried, smokedorcanned. Irememberthebutcheringdayswhentheneighborswouldallcometothefarmandhelp.Thekidswouldplayunderthetablesiftheywerenotoldenoughtohelp.Itwasdoneincoldweatherwithsnowontheground.Grandmawouldwatchthebigironkettlesetuptorenderthefatintolard.Thiswasdoneoutsideinthebarnyard.Grandpawouldsugarcurethehamsandtheywouldbehunginthesmokehouse.Thelardwouldbestoredinlargemetal cans with a tight fitting lid and stored in a cool place. Lard was used as theshortening for cooking. There was no vegetable oil or solid shortening. Butter waschurnedfromthecreamsavedfromthemilk.Thecreamrisestothetopofthemilkwhenit sets.Homogenizationprevents this fromhappening in themilk thatwebuynow.Thefirstmargarinewaswhiteandapacketofcolorcametomixin tomakeityellow.Icanremember her making her own cottage cheese. The cows were milked twice a day.Nothing was wasted and everything was made from scratch. She did not measureanything.Extramilkwasfedtothepigs.

Mymotherwasanonlychild.Shealsolearnedtocookatanearlyage.Aftergraduationfrom high school she took a job as housekeeper and cook for a college professor inOxford.Sheworkedthereuntilshegotmarried.Shelovedtobakeandthenshestartedtobakeforcompetitionat thecountyfair.Shewonnumerousribbonsinallcategoriesandhadthebestoverallcakeoneyear.Shealsocannedorfrozemostofthefoodthatweate.They renteda locker inOkeano,Ohio to store food in.The instant thatyouopened thedoor to the giantwalk in freezer andwalked into the dark, frigid chamber, aworld ofsilencewrapped around you.When you closed the thickmetal door a blissfulmomentwouldpassoveryouastheicycoldblastofairhityourface.Youcouldsavorthosefewseconds of cool solitude and crisp airwhile inhaling the frosty vapors in the dark greychamber,justyouandfloortoceilingdrawersandasinglelightbulbsuspendedfromtheceiling.Asyouleftthefreezer,ablastoffrostyairwouldescapeintotheoutsideworld.

Electricity came to the farm the year before I was born. I never knew life without arefrigeratororlights.Wedidloseelectricwhentheweatherwasstormyortherewasalotofsnow.Ittaughtyoutoappreciatethesmallerthingsinlife.Thatiswhenthekerosenelampswerelit.Mymotherhadusedthemtodoherhomeworkbyasshewasgrowingup.Livingonthefarmyouhadtobeselfsufficient.

Theoldtelephonehungonthewallbythedoor.Itwasapartylinewith6otherfamilies.Theygotthephonein1938.Ifitrang3timesclosetogetheritwasforus.Youhadtoset

upstraight to talkonit.Themouthpiecewasonthewallandtheearpieceyouheld inyourhand.

Theclosestneighborwasa½mileawaydownthegravelroad.MygrandfatherwasthefirstemployeeinReilyTownship.Hedrovearoadgraderinwintertocleantheroadsandmowedthegrassinthesummeralongthecountryroads.Theroadsweregravelthathadtobegradedtofillintheruts.Ilovedtowatchforhimtocomeuptheroadandalwaysranoutwithsomethingforhimtodrink.

Wehadabigironmonsterofastovethatstoodinthelivingroom.Youwouldbewarmonthebacksidewhenyoubackeduptoitandcoldonthefrontside.Grandmahadasmallwarmingstoveinherbedroom.Theyusedcoalforafuel.Ithadtobecarriedineveryday.

Scotthasrestoredthestovenowthathefoundintheshed.Itserveditspurposewellovertheyears.Wehadnoheatinourbedroom.Somemorningswewouldwakeandfindiceinthewaterglasses.Theywouldwarmabrickandwrapit in towels towarmthebedbeforeputtingmetobed.Wehadnobathroom.Wehadalongpathoutsidethatwasverycoldinwinterthatledtotheouthouse.

Grandmakeptabucketoflimetheretohelpcontrolthesmell.

Wehadbigfeatherbedsthatwereshookuponwashday.Itwasfuntorunandjumpinbed and have it fold up around you. The sheets always smelled so good after hangingoutside.Wecoveredupwithhomemadequiltsorcomfortersfilledwithwoolandtiedwithyarn.Momanddadlateraddedontothehouseandbuiltanupstairs.Thehousedidnothave any insulation. Daddy dug the basement by hand and carried the dirt outside inbuckets.Theyputinafurnace.Coalwasstoredinaroominthebasementandloadedintoahopperthathadanaugerthatfedthecoaltothefurnace.Thepipeswerebigthatwenttotherooms.Thecoalwasalsodustyandsmelly.Iwouldhavetosetinfrontofthefurnaceregistertogetdressedforschoolitwouldbesocoldupstairs.

Rugswerecarriedoutside in the springandhungover theclothes line.Theywerebeatwitharugbeatertogetoutallthedust.Therewerenovacuumsweepers.

Inwintertheclotheswouldfreezedryandwhenbroughtinwouldhangaroundthestovetoget thedampnessout.Laundrywasnotdone everydayandclotheshad tobe ironed.They would be very stiff after hanging outside unless it was very windy. I remembergrandmaheatingtheoldsadirononthestovetoironherclothes.Momusedtheelectricironandsprinkledtheclotheswithwatertodampenthemtomakethewrinklescomeouteasier.Grandmamadeherownlyesoap.

Televisionhadnotbeeninventedyet.Everyonegatheredaroundtheradiotogetthenews.Iwasabout11whenwegotthefirst8inchblackandwhitetelevision.Ithadanautomaticchannelchanger,me.WhenevertheywantedtoseeanotherprogramIhadtojumpupandturn thechannel.Therewereonly3channels tochoosefrom.Wehadabadstormonceandtheantennaewerestruckwithlightninganditcamedownthewireandaballoffirerolledacrossthefloortothetelevision.

Girlshadtoweardressestoschool.WhenIstartedschooltherewere2bigouthousesinthebackyardoftheschool.Theteachershadanenclosedstooltouse.Everyoneelsehada

rowofcutoutwoodholes tousenext toeachother.Wedidnotwaste timegoing to thebathroom.Itwascoldinthewinterandsmellyinthesummer.Theschoolswereverycoldinwinterandwehadtowearourcoatsandbootssometimesallday.Thebusonlyhadheatinthefront.Ifthebuswentofftheroad,wewenttothenearesthousetowaitforanotherbustopickusuptotakeustoschool.Therewerenoairconditioners.

Everyone helped to raise a garden and put food up for thewinter. I feel like a squirrelstoringforthewinter.It isnicetogotothebasementandchoosethecannedthingsthatyouwanttofix.Therearealsonopreservativesinthefoodthatwecan.

Thecanningroomwherethefoodisstoredisinthebasementwhereitiscooler.Wehavealsostartedraisingaspecial tomatoplant inaraisedbedandthenbringthebranchesinjustbeforefrosttoextendthelengthoftimethatwecaneatfreshtomatoes.Thisyearwealsohavehungagrowlightinasmallareaandraisedsomeplantsinbucketstoseeifwecankeepthemgoingallwinter.Wehavebeenabletodopepperthisway.Thetomatoesareripeningslowly.

Regular canning season is finishedwhen thegarden isdone for theyear. I still candrybeansandsoupsinthewinter.Icookextraandfreezesomeofourmealssothatwecanhaveaquickmealwhenwehavebeengoneorworkingoutside.Wealsostoreemergencyitems incase the electricwould go off. Living in the country you have to be ready foremergencies.

There was life before McDonald’s. I remember when they opened the first one inHamilton.Youcouldalwaystellwhohadanewbabybytherowsofdiapershangingonthe line. These had to be washed and folded several times a week in an old wringerwasher.Nosuchthingasadryer.

AppetizersCarmelcorn

2bagsmicrowavelightpopcornpopped1jarsalteddryroastedpeanuts1cupbutter(twosticksnosubstitutes)1cupgranulatedsugar(Iusedsplenda)1cuppackedlightbrownsugar(Iusedsplenda)½cuplightcornsyrup½tsp.BakingsodaPreheatoven to250.Lightlygreasenonstickcookingspray.Placepoppedcorn inverylargebowldiscardingunpoppedkernels.Addpeanutsandtosstocombine.

Ina3qt.Saucepanmeltbutter,sugar,andcornsyruponmediumuntilbuttermeltsandsugar dissolves, about 5 min. Stirring frequently with metal spoon increase heat tomediumhighandheattoboilingabout3minutes.

Continuecookinguntil it reachessoftballstage.Drizzlesomeof thesyrupinverycoldwater.Whenyoucanpush it together intoaball thatholds together it isdone.Removefromheatandstir inbakingsoda.Itwillbubblevigorouslyandchangecolor.Pouroverpopcornmixtureandstiruntilevenlycoated.Pour into2 jelly rollpans thathavebeensprayedwithPam.Spreadevenlyandbake20min.Stirandputbackintheovenanother10to15minutes.Stirintightlysealedcontainerupto2weeks.

Delicious.

Intheendit’snottheyearsinyourlifethatcount,butthelifeinyouryears.RoadhouseGrillCheeseWraps.

8thinslicesMontereyjackcheese8thinslicescheddarcheese1jalapenopepper,seededanddiced1teaspoonmincedfreshchives4largespringrollwrappers1beatenegg6to10cupsvegetableoil

OnthesideMarinara(pasta)sauceSlicethecheeserealthin,addpeppersandchives;rollitallupandgiveitagoodsqueezebeforewrapping

Use a sharp knife to make 8 thin slices each from the end of standard-size hunks ofcheddarandMontereyjackcheeses.

Arrange 2 slices of cheddar and 2 slices of jack on your hand, then sprinkle about 1teaspoonofdicedjalapenoontopofthecheese.Sprinkle1/4teaspoonofmincedchivesonnext.Sandwichthepeppersandchivesbetweenthecheeseandrollitallup.Foldthecheeseandsqueezeitalltogethersothatthepeppersandchivesarewellsealedintothemiddleofthecheeses.

Laya spring rollwrapperwithonecornerpointingaway fromyou.Arrange thecheeselengthwiseonthecenterofthewrapper.

Foldoneofthesidecornersoverthecheesefilling.Brushalittlebeateneggonthetipoftheothersidecornerandfolditoverthefirstcornersothatitsticks.Brushsomebeateneggonthecornerpointingawayfromyou.Foldthebottomcornerupandoverthefilling.Rollthewrapperup,keepingittight,untilitrollsoverthetopcornerwiththeeggonit.Itshouldstick.Repeatwiththeremainingrolls,thencoverthemallandchillforatleast30minutes.Thiswillbelongenoughtoheatuptheoilinadeepfryerorlargesaucepanto350degrees.

When the oil is hot, fry the rolls for 2 1/2 to 3minutes or until the outside is goldenbrown.Drain therollsonarackorpaper towelsfor2minutesbeforeservingwithyourfavoritemarinarasauceonthesidefordipping.

Shrimpcocktail

Iftheshrimparefrozen,theyareprobablyalreadycookediftheyarepink.Justrunwarmwateroverthemuntiltheythaw.Iftheyaregreyincolortheyneedtobecookedinboilingwateruntiltheyturnpink.Itonlytakesacoupleofminutes.Removefromhotwaterandimmediately put into ice water. Do not over cook shrimp or it will be tough and likerubber.

Cocktailsauceisveryeasytomake.Wejustusecatsupandaddhorseradishtotaste.Addalittlehorseradishatatimeuntilitsuitsyourtaste.

WhenGodtakessomethingfromyourgrasp,he’snotpunishingyou,butmerelyopening

yourhandstoreceivesomethingbetter.ThewillofGodwillnottakeyouwheretheGraceofGodwillnotprotectyou.

SweetchickenbaconwrapsDelicious1¼poundsboneless,skinless,chickenbreasts(about4breastscutintochunks)11lb.Slicedbacon2/3cupfirmlypackedbrownsugar2tbsp.ChilipowderPreheatovento350degrees.Cutchickenbreastsinto1inchcubes.Cutbaconsliceintothirds.Wrap each chicken cube with bacon and secure with a wooden tooth pick. Stirtogetherbrownsugarandchilipowder.Dredgewrappedchickeninmixture.Coatarackand boiler panwith nonstick cooking spray. Place chickenwrap on rack in boiler pan.Bake350for30to35min.oruntilbaconiscrisp.

Happy moments praise God, Difficult moments seek God Quiet moments worship GodPainfulmomentstrustGodEverymomentThankGod.

BreadcupsRemove crusts from6 slices of bread.Roll thinwith a rolling pen.Cut each slice in 4squarepieces.Spray2miniaturemuffinpanswithPam.Fitasquare ineachcup.Spraywith ICan’tBelieve It’sNotButterorbrush lightlywithmeltedmargarine.Bake for5minutesat350.Fillwithfillingbelow.

CrabRagooninBreadcupsDelicious8ouncescreamcheesesoftened1stalkscelerychoppedinfoodprocessorandwatersqueezedout.1cancrabmeat,liquidsqueezedout2tablespoonsugar2dashofsaltMixalltogether

Sausagecups1poundofsausage1cupshreddedMonterey1cupshreddedcheddar½cupranchdressingCrumblesausageintoskilletandbrown.Stiroccasionally.Drain.Sprayminimuffincups.Makebreadcupsasabove.Bake5minutesin350ovens.Mixsausage,ranchdressingandcheese.Fillcupsandbake10minutesuntilbubbly.

Shrimpfilling1pkg.(8oz.)Creamcheese,softened¼cupmayonnaise1½tbsp.Sourcream1½ tbsp.Or lesspreparedhorseradish.Dependshowhotyouwant it. 6 to8oz.Smallshrimpdiced8greenonions.In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream and horseradish until

blended.Justbeforeservingstirinshrimpandonions;spoonintocups.Garnishwithdillifdesired.Refrigerateleftovers.Yield4doz.Togetsomethingyouneverhad,youhavetodosomethingyouneverdid.

Pizzarolls2cups(8ounces)shreddedpizzacheeseblendorpartskimmozzarellacheese½poundbulkItaliansausage,cookedanddrained1packageor3ouncesslicedpepperoni,chopped½ofagreenandaredpepper,finelychopped1smallonionfinelychopped1jar(4ounces)pizzasauce16eggrollwrappersOilforfrying

Inalargebowl,combinethecheese,sausage,pepperoni,peppersandonion.Stirinpizzasauceuntil combined.Place about¼ cup filling in the center of each egg rollwrapper.Foldbottomcorneroverfilling;foldsidestowardcenteroverfilling.Moistenremainingcornerwithwaterandrolluptightlytoseal.

Heatoil to375F.Frypizza rolls for1 to2minutesoneachsideoruntilgoldenbrown.Drainonpapertowels.Servewithadditionalpizzasauceifdesired.

FavoritefudgeByEthelBrehm4cupssugar114½ouncecan(12/3cups)evaporatedmilk1cupbutterormargarine112ouncepackagesemisweetchocolate(about2cups)\1pintmarshmallowcrème1tsp.Vanilla1cupbrokenEnglishwalnutsCook sugar,milk, andbutter to soft ball stage236degrees, stirring frequently.Removefrom heat; add chocolate, marshmallow crème, vanilla, and nuts. Beat till chocolate ismeltedandblended.Pourintoabuttered9x9x2inchpan.Immediatelyscorethecandyinsquares;whencool,cutinsquares.Makes3dozen1½inchpieces.

Beverages

Bubblinglemonade1containerfrozenlemonadeUsealemonlimesodainsteadofwatertomakethedrink

Strawberrylemonade1package,10oz.Frozenstrawberries2literslemonlimesodachilled1can12oz.Frozenpinklemonadeconcentrate,thawed

Placethestrawberriesinablender;coverandprocessuntilpureed.Pourintoapitcher;stirinthesodaandlemonadeconcentrate.Serveimmediately.

Don’ttellGodhowbigyourstormis,buttellthestormhowbigyourGodis.

OldfashionedStrawberrysoda

1/2cupfreshorfrozenstrawberries1cup2%milk1/2cupvanillaicecream,softened2tablespoonssugar2to3dropsredfoodcoloring,optional1cupgingerale,chilled

Inablender,combinethemilk,strawberries,icecream,sugarandfoodcoloringifdesired;cover and process until smooth. Pour into chilled glasses. Add ginger ale and serveimmediately.Yield:2servings.

LimeFrappe

Prep/TotalTime:10min.1/4cupfat-freemilk2tablespoonslimejuice2cupsfat-freevanillafrozenyogurt,softened1/2teaspoongratedlimepeel2teaspoonsgrahamcrackercrumbs

Inablender,combinethemilk,limejuice,frozenyogurtandlimepeel;coverandprocessuntil blended.Stir if necessary. Pour into chilled glasses; sprinklewith cracker crumbs.Serveimmediately.Yield:2servings.

OrangeSoymilkfrappe1/2cupvanillasoymilk1/2cuporangejuice5icecubes2teaspoonssugar1/4teaspoonvanillaextractDashsalt

Inablender,combineallingredients;coverandprocessfor30-45secondsoruntilsmooth.Pourintochilledglasses;serveimmediately.Yield:2servings.

Limeadesmoothie6ServingsPrep/TotalTime:10min.Ingredients2-1/4cupsmilk3/4cupthawedlimeadeconcentrate3cupslimesherbet,softenedDirectionsPlace all ingredients in a blender; cover and process until smooth. Pour into chilledglasses;serveimmediately.Yield:6servings.

Laughingisgoodexercise.It’slikejoggingontheinside.

Holidaypunch1qt.Pineapplejuice1qt.Cranberryjuice

4oz.Redhotcinnamoncandies.PlaceinaCrockpotandheatforseveralhours.Delicious

FruitSmoothie1cupmilk1cupfrozenorcannedfruit1cupyogurtCrushedicetodesiredconsistencyWhipalltogetherwithablender.Jimaddshisproteintothisforoneofhisdrinkshehastohave.

It’snotwhathappenstoyou,buthowyouhandleitthatmatters.Firecrackerfloat

Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a tall glass; sprinkle with 1/3 package of POPROCKScandy.Repeattwice,endingwithPOPROCKS.Topwithlemonlimesoda

StrawberryPatch

Spoon 2 tbsp. Strawberry jam mixed with 1 tsp. Water into a tall glass. Top withstrawberryicecream,slicedstrawberries,¼cupcream,strawberryorraspberrysparklingwater,whippedcreamandsprinkles.

Strawberrycheesecakemilkshake

4largescoopsvanillaicecream18oz.Packagecreamcheese,softened¼cupmilk2teaspoonsvanillaextract8freshstrawberries8grahamcrackerhalves

Inablender,combineicecream,creamcheese,milk,andvanilla;pulseonhighspeed1minute, or until well blended. Pour into glasses, garnish with strawberries and grahamcrackers,andserveimmediately.It is ok to use frozen strawberries instead of fresh. If you’d like to lighten this up, usefrozenyogurt,fatfreecreamcheeseandskimmilk

Breads

Bakingtipsformakingbread:Use butter, stick margarine with at least 80% oil or shortening. Do not use light orwhippedbutter,diet spreador tubmargarine.Measure ingredientsaccurately.Check thetemperatureofliquidingredientswithaninstantreadthermometer.Arrangetheovenrackssothatthebreadwillbakeinthecenteroftheoven.Preheattheovenfor10to15minutesbeforebaking.Whenmixingdough,alwaysstartwithaminimumamountof flouruntildough reachesdesired consistency (soft, sticky, stiff or firm).Knead dough only until it does not teareasilywhenstretched.Letthedoughriseinawarm80to85degreedraftfreearea.Properrisinghelpsthedevelopmentofthebreadtexture.Usealuminumpanswithadullratherthanshinyordarkfinish.Glassbakingdishesanddark finisheswillproducedarkercrusts.Toallowforgoodaircirculationwhilebaking,

leaveatleast1inchofspacebetweenpansandbetweenpansandsidesofoven.Use a timer and test for doneness at theminimum recommendedbaking time.Bread isdonewhenitisgoldenbrownandsoundshollowwhentappedonthebottom.Orinsertaninstant read thermometer in the thickest part of the loaf. The bread is done when thethermometer reads 200 degrees.Remove breads frompans and cool onwire racks.Letbreads cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Use a serrated knife and a sawingmotionwhencutting.Iliketouseanelectricknife.

The ingredients used in bread making will affect the texture, density and crust. LeanbreadslikeFrenchbreadaremadewithyeast,flour,water,saltandaminimalamountofsugartoproducedense,chewybreadwithacrispcrust.Richorshortbreadslikebriochearemadewithfatsuchasbutterorshortening,eggsand/ormilktoproducetenderbreadwithasoftcrust.

Fatsandeggs:theytenderize,addmoisture,carryflavorsandgiverichnesstothebread.Flours: wheat flour, the most commonly used flour, contains gluten-an elastic protein.Kneadingthedoughdevelopsthegluten.Duringtherisetime,theyeastproducescarbondioxidegas,whichbecomestrappedinthedough.Asthegasespushagainsttheprotein,thedoughrises.Duringbaking,theproteinissetbytheheatandgivesthebakedgooditsstructure.

Thetermssoftandhardwheatrefertotheamountofprotein(gluten)intheflour-softhaslessandhardhasmore.Theamountofglutenwillaffect thetextureofthebread.High-glutenflours,suchasall-purposeorbreadflour,areusedforthebestyeastbreadresults.Wholewheatandryeflourscontainlessgluten,andthebreadwouldbeheavyanddensewithouttheadditionofall-purposeorbreadflour.

Liquids:mostbreadispreparedwithwater,milkorwaterreservedfromcookingpotatoes.Breadspreparedwithwaterwillyieldacrunchycrust,andmilkwillproduceasoftercrustand a tender crumb.All liquids need to bewarmed to the temperature required by theyeastandmixingmethod.

Salt:helps roundout flavorsandcontrols thegrowthof theyeast.Toomuchsaltor toolittlesaltwillaffectthefinalproduct.Forbestresults,usetheamountlistedintherecipeandneveromitthesalt.

Sugarsandothersweeteners:usedinsmallamounts,sugarsfeedtheyeastwhenmakingbread. Sugars and other sweeteners tenderize, add sweetness and flavor, promotebrowningandenhancethekeepingquality.Dependingontherecipe,youmayusewhiteorbrownsugar,molassesorhoneytosweetenandflavoryourbread.

Yeast:thismicroorganismbecomesactivatedwhencombinedwithwarmwaterandsugar.It consumes the sugars in sweeteners and flours and produces carbon dioxide gas thathelpsgivebreaditslightairytexture.Thereareseveraldifferenttypesofyeast,whichareallhandleddifferently.Checktheexpirationdateonthepackagebeforeusing,anddiscardyeastifitispastthedate.

Problemsolvingforyeastbread:Breaddidnotrisewellordidnotriseatall:Yeastwasnotfresh.Nexttime,prooftheyeast.(Putitinabowlwithwarmwaterandalittleofthesweetenerfortherecipeandseeifitgetsbubbly)

Liquidwastoohotandkilledtheyeast.Doughwasnotkneadedenough.Oventemperaturewastoolow.

Breadisheavyandcoarse:There’s toomuch liquidornotenoughflour indoughNext time,use lower-glutenfloursuchaswholewheat,ryeoroat.Doughwasallowedtorisetoolong.Oventemperaturewastoolow

Breadisdryandcrumbly:Toomuchflourwasused.Doughwasallowedtorisetoolong.

Breadisdoughyonthebottomorhasaslightlygummytexture:Breadwasunderbaked.Breadstayedinthepantoolongafterbaking.

Loafsinksinthecenter:Doughrosetoolongduringthesecondrisetimeinthepan.

Breadhaslargeholes:DoughwasnotkneadedenoughAirwasnotcompressedoutofthedoughduringshaping.Breadcrumbleswhencut:Toomuchflourwasused.Doughwaskneadedtoomuchornotenough.Doughwasallowedtorisetoolongornotlongenough.Oventemperaturewastoohigh.

Breadhasayeastytaste:Doughhadtoomuchyeastorrosetoolong.SaltretardsthegrowthofyeastIfyoudipyourspooninwater,theninbatteritwilldropoffthespoonintothedeepfryer.

Corntortillas4cupsmasaharina1tsp.Salt2cupswarmwater2tsp.Honey

Putthemasaharinainabowlandmixinthesalt.Addabout1cupwarmwaterandmixwithyourhands;addmorewaterasneededuntilthedoughcomestogether.Kneadforafewminutestosmooththedoughout.Thedoughshouldbefirmandspringyandshouldnotstick toyourhands.Testby formingasmalldisk. If itcracksaround theedgesyouneedmorewater.

Place a piece of heavy plastic (like from a garbage bag) I use a sandwich bag onto atortillapress.Forma1½inchballofdoughandplaceit in thecenterof thepress.Topwithanotherpieceofplastic,closethepress,andpushtheleverdowntoformthetortilla.Ifyoudon’thaveatortillapress,youcanrollthemoutbetween2sheetsofplasticwitharollingpin.Openthepressandcarefullyremovethetoplayerofplastic.Carefullypeelthetortillaoffthebottomplasticandplaceitontoahot,ungreasedcastironskillet;cookforabout1to2minutesperside.Removethetortillaandplaceitonacleanteatowel;keepitcoveredtokeepitsoftandpliable.Continueuntilyouhaveusedupallthedough.

Everychildisastoryyettobetold.WheatBreadForbreadmachine

1cupwater,warm1tsp.Salt1egg3tbspMargarine.1heapingtbsp.Brownsugar1tbsp.Honey3¾cupwheatflour3tsp.Yeast.

AddallingredientsandIbakeondoughonlycycle.Whenmachinegoesoff,Idumpitoutandputinaloafpanorformintorollsormakebreadsticks.TomakebreadsticksIstretchoutthedoughuntilitisabout1inchthickby4to18inches.Slicewithapizzacutterintostripsandplaceonsidedcookiesheet.Brushtopswithmeltedbutterormargarine.Bake20minutesat350.Itwill takea little longerfora loafofbread.Bottomshouldbelightgolden.Brushtopsagainwithbutterwhenyoutakethemoutoftheoven.Thismakesforasofttop.

Good friends are like stars…you don’t always see them, but you know they are alwaysthere.WheneverGodclosesonedoor,healwaysopensanother,eventhoughsometimesit’sHellintheHallway.

CornFritters1cupoffreshorwholekernelcannedcorn(Iusedfrozen)Add1eggyolk,beatenthickSifttogether½cupplus2tbsp.Flour½tsp.Bakingpowder½tsp.SaltDashpaprikaStirintothecorn.Foldin1eggwhite,beatenstiffDrop froma tablespoon into fatheated to370.Cookuntildelicatelybrown.Drainonapapertowel.Serves4to6

IwouldratherhaveoneroseandakindwordfromafriendwhileI’mhere,thanawholetruckloadwhenI’mgone.

FlourTortilla2cupsflour½tsp.Salt¼cupoilornonhydrogenatedlard2/3cupwarmwater

Combineingredientstoformdoughbyhandorusingagoodprocessororstandmixer.Cover doughwith plasticwrapor foil and allow to rest for 30minutes.Divide into 12portionsandrolleachintoaball.Pressintoathinflatcircleusingatortillapressorroll

outwitharollingpinuntilapproximately1/8inchthick.

Lightlybrushaheavyblackcastironpanusingasiliconebrushorpapertowel;heatthepanandwipeoffanyexcessoil.Becarefulnottoburnyourhands.

Bake tortillas until crisp on both sides turning once. Stack between paper napkins ortowelsandkeepwarmuntilallaredone.Stuff with your favorite filings and serve right away or wrap tightly with wax orparchmentpaperbetweenlayersandfreezeforupto6months.Bakedtortillachips.

Preheatovento400degrees.Usingapizzacutter,cuteachtortillainto3wedges;arrangehalfof tortillawedges insingle layeron flatbakingstone.Bake6 to8minutesoruntiledgesarelightlybrownedandcrisp.Removefrombakingstone,coolcompletely.Repeatwithremainingtortillawedges.

Agoodtimetokeepyourmouthshutiswhenyou’reindeepwater.Thenicestthingaboutthefutureisthatitalwaysstartstomorrow.Tortillacrisps

¼cupgranulatedsugar1teaspoongroundcinnamonCookingspray8(10inch)flourtortillasPreheatovento425degrees.Coat2rimmedbakingsheetswithcookingspray.Inashallowdish,combinesugarandcinnamon;mixwellandsetaside.Place2tortillason a cutting board and use your favorite cookie cutter shapes to cut shapes from thetortillas.Spraybothsidesof the tortillapieceswithcookingsprayandsprinklewith thesugarandcinnamonmixture.Placeonpreparedbakingsheets.Bake6to8minutes,oruntilgolden.Repeatwithremainingtortillas.Allowtocoolthenstoreinanairtightcontainer.

Pineapplecheesebread

2cupsselfrisingflour¾cupsugar1cupcannedcrushpineapplewithjuice2eggs2tablespoonsvegetableoil¾cupgratedsharpcheddarcheese½cupchoppedwalnuts½teaspoonpineappleextractPreheatovento350degreesUsingalargebowl,sifttheflourandsugarandmixtogether.Inaseparatebowl,mixthepineapple,eggs,oil,andaddtotheflourmixture,mixwell.Foldinthecheese,nuts,andpineappleextract.Pourmixtureintoagreased9by3inchloafpan.Bakefor1hour.Coolandturnoutbreadfrompan.Allowtocoolcompletelybeforeslicing.

Datenutbread½cupboilingwater2cupchoppeddatesorraisins

2tbsp.Butter2eggs,wellbeaten2cup(scant)sugaror1½cuppackedbrownsugar5cupflour2tsp.Soda½tsp.Salt1tbsp.Vanillaextract1cupchoppedwalnutsPour boiling water over dates; add butter. Let stand for 15 minutes. Add eggs to datemixture.Adddryingredients,vanillaextractandwalnuts.Mixwell.Turnintogreasedloafpans.Bakeinpreheated350ovenfor45minutes.Slicethinandserve.Ifyoudon’thaveasenseofhumor,youprobablydon’thaveanysenseatall.Seatbeltsarenotasconfiningaswheelchairs.

PitaBread

1pkg.Activedryyeast1¼cupswarmwater110to155degrees3¼to3¾cupsallpurposeflour¼cupshortening1½tsp.Salt

Inalargemixerbowl,softenyeastinwarmwater.Add2cupsoftheflour,theshortening,andsalt.Beatatlowspeedofmixerfor½minutescrapingsidesofbowl.Beat3minutesathighspeed.Stirinasmuchoftheremainingflourasyoucanmixinwithaspoon.Turnout onto a lightly floured surface. Knead in enough of the remaining flour to makemoderatelysoftdoughthatissmoothandelastic.Cover;letrestinawarmplaceabout15minutes. Divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each between floured hands into a verysmoothballcoverwithaplasticwraporadampcloth;let10minutes.Usingfingersgentlyflatten balls without creasing dough. Cover; let rest 10 minutes. Keep dough piecescoveredtillreadytouse.

Onawell floured surface lightly rollonepieceofdoughat a time intoa7 inch round,turningdoughoveronce.Donot stretch, puncture, or creasedough.Workwith enoughfloursodoughdoesnotstick.Placeonabakingsheet.Bake2atatimeina450ovenabout3minutesortilldoughispuffedandsoftlyset.Turnover with a spatula; bake about 2minutesmore or till dough begins to lightly brown.Repeatwithremainingdough,bakingonebatchbeforerollingandbakingthenextbatch.

Toserve,slicecooledbreadcrosswisetoformapocket;generouslyfilleachpocketwithdesiredfilling.Allowanyextrabreadtojustcoolbeforewrappingforstorage.Makes12pitarounds.Wholewheatpitaread:preparepitabreadasabove,exceptsubstitute2cupswholewheatflourand1¼to1/4cupsallpurposeflourforthe3¼to3¾cupallpurposeflour.

Party pita bread: prepare pita bread as above, except divide the dough into 24 equalportions.Roll into4inchroundsandbakeabout2minutesoneachside.Toserve,slicebreadcrosswisetoformapocket;fillwithdesiredfilling.Makes24.

DilledWheatBread

2cupsallpurposeflour1cupwholewheatflour

2tbsp.Sugar1tbsp.Driedmincedonion1pkg.¼oz.Activedryyeast2tsp.Dillweed1tsp.Salt1cup(8oz.)creamstylecottagecheese.Ididnothaveenoughcottagecheese,soIusedhalfcottagecheeseandhalfsourcream½cupwater1tbsp.Butter1egg2tsp.MeltedbutterCoarsesalt,optionalIusedabreadmachinetomakeit.Putinthecottagecheese,water,1tbsp.Butterandegg.Thenaddthedryingredientsandsetthemachineforthedoughcycle.

Dumpthedoughontoaflouredsurfacewhenthecycleisdone.Kneadseveraltimesandshapeintoaloafandplaceintoan8x4inchloafpan.Brushtopwithmeltedbutter.Coverandletriseinawarmplaceuntildoubledabout45minutes.

Bakeat350for25to30minutesuntilgoldenbrown.Removetoawirerack.Brushwithmeltedbutterandsprinklewithcoursesaltifdesired.Thisisdelicious

Angelshavewalkedbesideyouand theystilldo.Goddidn’tpromisedayswithoutpain,laughterwithoutsorrow,sunwithoutrain,buthedidpromisestrengthfortheday,comfortforthetearsandlightfortheway.

Montereyranchbread

Combine 2 cups shreddedMonterey Jack cheese and¾ cup ranch salad dressing withcrispy bacon; set aside. Cut 1 loaf French bread in half lengthwise; brushwith 2 tbsp.Meltedbutter.Broil4inchesfromtheheatonbakingsheetsuntilgoldenbrown.Spreadwithcheesemixture.Bakeat350for10to15minutesoruntilcheeseismelted.Sprinklewithmincedfreshparsleyordicedgreenonions.

Buttermilkbiscuitmix

8cupsallpurposeflour1½cupsbuttermilkblendpowder4tbsp.Bakingpowder3tbsp.Sugar2tsp.Salt2tsp.Creamoftartar1tsp.Bakingsoda21/3cupsshorteningInabowl,combinethefirstseveningredients;cutintheshorteninguntilcrumbly.Storeinanairtightcontainerinacooldryplaceforupto6months.Useinanyrecipethatcallsforbiscuitmix.

Redlobsterbiscuits2cupsbiscuitmix2/3cupsmilk

¼cupmilkshreddedcheddarcheese¼cupoleo(margarine)¼tsp.GarlicpowderMixbiscuitmix,milkandcheese.Bakeoncookiesheet.Dropbyteaspoonfuls2to3inchesapart.Bakeat425to450degreesfor8to10minutes.Thenmeltoleoandgarlicpowder.Pouroverbiscuitshotfromtheoven.

Garlicbuns

Forbreadmachine½cupmilk½cupwater2tablespoonsshortening1egg1teaspoonpaprika½teaspoongarlicpowder1tablespoonsugar2½teaspoonofyeastor1package½teaspoonofsalt3cupsallpurposeflour(enoughtomakesoftdough.Addtablespoonatatimeifitistoosticky.)Whencycleisfinisheddumpdoughoutonaflouredsurface.Kneadacoupleoftimestogetenoughflouronoutsidesoitisnotsticky.Divideinto12piecesandplaceinagreased9x13pan.Butterthetopandsprinklewithgarlicsalt.Letdoubleinsize.Bakeat350for20minutesoruntilgolden.Buttertopswhenremovingfromoven,thiskeepsthemsoft.

Startmachinetodoughonlycycle.Cakes

BlueberryPuddingCakeActivetime:15minTotaltime:50min

1/3cupplus1/2cupsugar1/4cupwater1tablespoonfreshlemonjuice1teaspooncornstarch10ozblueberries(2cups)1cupall-purposeflour13/4teaspoonsbakingpowder1teaspoonsalt1largeegg1/2cupwholemilk1stick(1/2cup)unsaltedbutter,meltedandcooledslightly1teaspoonvanilla

PreparationPutovenrackinmiddlepositionandpreheatovento375°F.Buttera9-inchsquarebakingpan.Stir together1/3cupsugarwithwater, lemon juice,andcornstarch inasmallsaucepan,

and then stir in blueberries. Bring to a simmer, then simmer, stirring occasionally, 3minutes.Removefromheat.

Whisktogetherflour,bakingpowder,salt,andremaining1/2cupsugarinamediumbowl.Whisk together egg, milk, butter, and vanilla in a large bowl, then add flour mixture,whiskinguntiljustcombined.

Spoonbatterintobakingpan,spreadingevenly,thenpourblueberrymixtureevenlyoverbatter(berrieswillsink).Bakeuntilaknifeinsertedintocenterofcakeportioncomesoutclean,25to30minutes.Coolinpanonarack5minutes.

Peaches‘nCreamCheesecake

¾cupallpurposeflour1tsp.Bakingpowder½tsp.Salt3½oz.Packagedryvanillapuddingmix(notinstant)3Tbsp.Butterormargarine1egg½cupmilk115to20oz.Canofpeachslices18oz.Creamcheese½cupsugar3Tbsp.fruitjuice1Tbsp.Sugar½tsp.CinnamonBeat together flour,bakingpowder, salt,puddingmix,butter,eggandmilk.Pour intoagreased9 inchdeepdishor10 inchpiepan.Drainpeaches reserving3 tbsp. Juice andarrangeoverbatter.Beatcreamcheese,sugarandfruitjuice2minutes.Spoonoverbatterandfruittooneinchofedgeofbatter.Sprinklewithcinnamonandsugarmixture.Bakeat350degreesfor30to35minutes.Cool.Keepinrefrigerator.

ApplePieandCheesecakeFillingRollapplepiefillingandcheesecakefillingintoa tortilla.Fryandservewith icecreamandwarmcarameldrizzledontop.

Iopenedupcrescentrollsintorectangles.Bakedthemuntilgoldenaccordingtotimeoncan.Take 8 oz. Cream cheese softened, 1 tbsp. Lemon juice and ¼ the cup of sugar. Mixtogetherandspreadonbakedrectangles.Topwithpiefillinganddrizzlecaramelover.Wealsotoppedwithcoolwhip.

ChocolateBiscuitCake

Servings:Makesone6-inchroundcake(8portions)Ingredients1/2tsp.butter,forgreasing8ouncesRichteabiscuits4ouncesunsaltedbutter,softened4ouncesgranulatedsugar4ouncesdarkchocolate,forthecake

1egg8ouncesdarkchocolate,forcoating1ouncechocolate,fordecoratingDirectionsTomakecake:Lightlygreasea6”x21/2”cake ringandplaceona trayonasheetofparchmentpaper.Breakeachofthebiscuitsintoalmond-sizepiecesbyhandandsetaside.Creamthebutterandsugarinabowluntilthemixturestartstolighten.Meltthe4ouncesofdarkchocolateandaddtothebuttermixturewhileconstantlystirring.Beattheeggintothemixture.Foldinthebiscuitpiecesuntiltheyareallcoatedwiththechocolatemixture.Spoonthemixtureintothepreparedcakering.Trytofillallofthegapsonthebottomoftheringbecausethiswillbethetopwhenitisunmolded.

Chillthecakeintherefrigeratorforatleast3hours.To coat anddecorate:Remove the cake from the refrigerator and let it standwhile youmeltthe8ouncesofdarkchocolate.Slide the ring off the cake and turn it upside down onto a cakewire. Pour themeltedchocolateoverthecakeandsmooththetopandsidesusingapaletteknife.Allowthechocolatetosetatroomtemperature.Carefullyrunaknifearoundthebottomofthecakewherethechocolatehasstucktothecakewireandliftitontoateaplate.Melttheremaining1ounceofchocolateandusetodecoratethetopofthecake.

Don’t go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get yourattention.Toffeepokecake

1put.18¼oz.Chocolatecakemix1jar17oz.Butterscotchcaramelicecreamtopping1carton12oz.Frozenwhippedtopping,thawed3Heathcandybars¼each,chopped

Prepareandbakecakeaccordingtopackagedirections,usingagreased13x9in.bakingpan.Coolonawirerack.

Usingthehandleofawoodenspoon,pokeholesincake.Pour¾cupcarameltoppingintoholes.Spoonremainingcarameloverthecake.Topwithwhippedtopping.Sprinklewithcandy.Refrigerateforatleast2hoursbeforeserving.Yield15servings.4gramsprotein.

It’snicetobeimportant,butit’smoreimportanttobenice.Chocolatezucchinicake

½cup(1stick)butter1¾cupvegetableoil1¾cupsgranulatedsugar1teaspoonvanilla1teaspoonbakingsoda½teaspoonbakingpowder½teaspoonsalt2largeeggs½cupsourcream,buttermilk,oryogurt

2½cupskingArthurunbleachedallpurposeflour¾cupDutchprocesscocoa2teaspoonsespressopowder,optionalbuttasty2cupsshreddedzucchini½cupchocolatechips1cupchocolatechipsforicingPreheattheovento32F.lightlygreasepanof9by13.Lightlydustwithcocoa.Inalargemixingbowl,creamtogetherthebutter,oil,sugar,vanilla,bakingsoda,bakingpowderandsalt.Beatintheeggs.

Stirinthesourcream,buttermilk,oryogurtalternatelywiththeflour.Thenaddthecocoaandespressopowder,mixingtillsmooth.Finally,foldinthezucchiniand½cupchocolatechips.

Spoonthebatterintothepan.Bakethecakefor30to35minutes,tillthetopspringsbacklightlywhentouchedanditseemsset.Slide thecakeoutof theoven,sprinkle itevenlywith the 1 cup chocolate chips, and return it to the oven for 5minutes, or until a caketester inserted in thecentercomesoutclean.Remove thecake fromtheovenanduseacakespatulaorrubberspatulatospreadthechocolatechipsintoasmoothglaze.Coolonarack.24servings.1servingis3gProtein.Icameacrossanotherrecipethatwassimilar.Itcalled for ½ cup oil instead of the 1¾ cup oil and 1 cup of milk plus the ½ cup ofbuttermilk,sourcreamoryogurt.Ifyouarewatchingyourfatyoumightwanttodothis.

Taketimeouttodream,ithitchesthesoultothestars.FlancakesBasicshell½cupmilk2tsp.butterormargarine2eggs1cupsugar½tsp.Vanilla1cupsifterflour1tsp.Bakingpowder¼tsp.Salt

In saucepan scaldmilk.Addbutter. In largebowl,beat eggsuntil lightyellow incolor.Addsugarandvanilla,beatinguntillightandfluffy.Sifttogetherflour,bakingpowderandsalt.Foldintoeggmixturewithhotmilkmixture.Pourbatterintogreasedandflouredflanpan.Bakeat350for25min.oruntilcaketestsdone.Cool5min.andturnoutonservingplate.Wetopourswithpiefillingwhencool.

Strawberryshortcake½cupmargarine1cupsugar2eggs2cupsflour½tsp.Salt¼tsp.Nutmeg1tsp.Bakingpowder

Placeallingredientsinmixerandbeatuntilwellblended.Doughisstiff.Pressdoughinto

pan,makingsurethatitfillsthegroovesandflutes.Bakeat400degreesapproximatelyfor20min.oruntil it testsdone.Removeshortcakefrompanandfillwithsweetenedfreshstrawberriesandtopwithwhippedcream.

CherrycustardflanPrepare basic flan cake shell. Prepare a 3 oz. Pkg. Vanilla pudding mix according todirectionsonpkg.Using1½cupsmilk.Coolandpourintobakedflancakeshell.Overtopofpuddinglayerspoononecanpreparedcherrypiefilling.Serves8to10people.

CakeRollTipsSpreadthecakebattersmoothlywithanoffsetspatulatoensureevenbaking.Ifthebatteristoothininthecorners,itmaybakefaster,resultinginacakethatcancrackwhenyourollitup.Remove the cake from the oven as soon as it springs backwhen lightly touched.Overbaking thecakecancause it tocrackwhenrolled.Flip thecakeoverona toweldustedwithpowderedsugar.Rolltightlyandletcool.Unrolltofill.Try filling the rollwithacombinationof sweetenedwhipcreamandberries, sherbetoryourfavoritepiefillingorfrosting.Leave the cake on the towel while spreading the filling. Then use the towel to beginrollingforanevenfirstroll.Lateruseyourhandsandkeeprollingthecakeloosely.BoththeApplesaucecakerollandOrange/jellyAngelcakerollmaybefrozenforupto2monthsaftertheyhavebeenfilledandrolled.Simplyplacetheunfrostedrollonabakingsheetandfreeze.Oncefrozen,wrapinplasticwrap;toserve,frostandgarnishasdesired.Slicethecakewithaserratedknife.When working with ice cream fillings, let the ice cream soften a bit to help it spreadevenly.Icecreamcanbesoftenedinthemicrowave.Then,spreadittowithin1/2in.ofthecake’sedgestokeepitinplacewhilerollingthecake.

Ganacheforcupcakes8oz.Chocolatechips1cupheavycreamPutintopdoubleboiler.Whenmelted,dipcupcaketopsinandswirl.

ToastedpoundcakeSlicecakeandbrushwithbutteranddrizzlewithhoney.Bake7minutestotoast.Zestonelemon, lime, and half orange. Juice lemon, lime and part of orange after you cut thesegmentsoutoftheorange.

½cupwhippingcream½containermascarponecheeseWhiptogetherandputaspoononsliceofcaketoserveandtopwithanorangesegment.

BrowniesA good topping for brownies is to put Nutrella on the top while still slightly warm.Sprinklewithchoppednutsandminiaturechocolatechips.Agoodchefreadsthecookbook.AgreatchefwritesthecookbookSourCreamPoundCake

½poundbutter(2sticks)3cupssugar1cupsourcream3cupsallpurposeflour½tsp.Bakingsoda½tsp.Salt6eggs1tsp.Vanilla

Preheatovento325degrees.Creambutterandsugartogether;addsourcreamandeggs.Beatwellaftereachegg.Adddrymixtureofflour,bakingsodaandsalt.Beatwell.Addvanillaandbeatagain.Pour intoagreasedandflouredtubepanandbakefor1hour20minutes.IusedaBundtpan.Letitcoolslightlybeforeremovingfrompan.Dustwellwithconfectioner’ssugar.Servewithcoolwhipandyoucanusefruitonthetopofit.

Sourcreamcoffeecake

2/3cupchoppedpecans2tbsp.Brownsugar1½tsp.GroundcinnamonBatter1cupbutter,softened2cupssugar2eggs½tsp.Vanillaextract2cupsallpurposeflour1tsp.Bakingpowder¼tsp.Bakingsoda¼tsp.Salt1cup(8oz)sourcream

In a small bowl, combine the pecans, brown sugar and cinnamon, set aside. In a largebowl,creambutterandsugaruntillightandfluffy.Addeggs,oneatatime,beatingwellaftereach.Beatinvanilla.Combinetheflour,bakingpowder,bakingsodaandsalt;addtocreamedmixturealternatelywithsourcream.

Pourhalfof thebatter intoagreasedand floured10 inch fluted tubepan; sprinklewithhalfofthepecanmixture.Gentlytopwithremainingbatterandpecanmixture.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 50minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the centercomesout clean.Cool for10minutesbefore removing frompan toawire rack tocoolcompletely.Sprinklewithconfectioner’ssugar.

CheesecakePralineSquares

2½cupsallpurposeflour1cupbutter,melted2/3cupfinelychoppedpecans2tbsp.ConfectionerssugarFilling3packages8oz.Eachcreamcheese,softened2/3cupsugar1can14oz.Sweetenedcondensedmilk2tsp.Vanillaextract4eggs,lightlybeaten

Topping1cuppackedbrownsugar1cupheavywhippingcream(Iusedevaporatedmilk)1cupchoppedpecans1½tsp.Vanillaextract

Ina largebowl,combine the flour,butter,pecansandconfectionerssugar.Press intoanungreased13x9inchbakingdish.Bakeat350degreesfor20to24min.oruntillightlybrowned.Coolonawirerack.Inalargebowl,beatcreamcheeseandsugaruntilsmooth.Addthemilkandvanilla.Addeggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Pour over crust. (I put all of these fillingingredientsinablendertocombine.)Bakeat350for35to40minutes.

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar and cream.Cook and stir overmediumheat untilmixturecomestoaboil.Reduceheat;simmer,uncoveredfor10minutes.Removefromthe heat; stir in pecans and vanilla. Pour over cheesecake. Refrigerate for 4 hours orovernight.Cutintosquares.Yield15servings.Delicious.

Youstartgettingolderassoonasyoustopfallinginlove.Rhubarbcake

4cupscutuprhubarb1smallboxsugarfreestrawberrygelatin1cupsugarorcaloriefreesweetenerF1boxyellowcakemix,dry1cupwaterPlacerhubarbin9x13inchpan.Sprinklegelatinoverit.Sprinklesugarorsweeteneroverit.Sprinklethedrycakemixoverit.Drizzlethecupofwaterovercakemix.Bakeat350for45minutes.

Frosting½containerfrosting½containersoftcreamcheese1/2tsp.FlavoringMixalltogetherandfrostyourcake

FunnelCakes

Ingredients2beateneggs1-1/2cupsmilk2cupssiftedall-purposeflour1teaspoonbakingpowder1/2teaspoonsalt24oz.Cookingoil1/2cupPowderedSugar

DirectionsInlargeMix-N-Storepitcher,combineeggsandmilk.Siftflour,bakingpowderandsalt.Addtoeggmixture.Beattillsmooth.(Testmixturetoseeifitflowseasilythroughfunnel.

Iftoothick,addmilk:Iftoothin,addflour)In8-inchskillet,heat2-4cupscookingoilto360Degrees.Covering bottom opening of funnelwith finger, pour a generous 1/2 cup of batter intofunnel.(Batterwillequalabout2cups;sopouruntilapproximately1-1/2cupsremaininMix-N-Storepitcher)Remove finger and releasebatter intohotoil in a spiral shape.Fryuntil goldenbrown,about3minutes.Using spatula and tongs, turn the cake carefully. Cook 1minutemore.Drain on papertowels.Sprinklewithsiftedpoweredsugarorservewithhotmaplesyrup.Makes4-5CakesTomakemaplesyrup:Heat1cuplightcornsyrup,1/2cupofbrownsugarand1/2cupwateruntilsugardissolves.Adddashmapleflavoringand1tablespoonbutter.

HummingbirdBreadPudding

½loafFrenchbread6largeeggs1cupsugar4tablespoonsvanilla1Tablespooncinnamon3cupsmilk,whole1cupshreddedcoconut2bananas(onemashed,onecutintosmallbites)1cancrushedpineappledrained1cuppecans

Cubebreadorrustictearintosmallpieces.Whiskeggs,addvanillaandmilkmix.Adddryingredients sugar, cinnamon. Mix in smashed banana. Fold in banana pieces, pecans,coconut,andpineapple.Addallbreadtomixture,stirandmix.Letmixture sit for 10 to 15minutes.Mix again after 5 to 10minutes. Pourmixture ingreasedcasserolepan,bakeat350degreesforabout45minutes.

Cool,serve,topwithcreamcheesepecansauce.CreamCheesePecanSauce

4oz.Creamcheese,softened3Tablespoonspowderedsugar,moreifnecessary4Tablespoonsmilk,plusmoreifneeded¼teaspoonvanillaextract1cupcrushedpecansWhipcreamcheesewithspoonandaddpowderedsugarslowlyuntilsmooth.Addvanillaand milk. Mix completely. Fold in pecans and drizzle over warm hummingbird breadpudding.

BlackBeanBrownies

Theblackbeansadd fiberandmoisture to this lighter treat.Customize thisbasic recipewithinstantespresso,ateaspoonofcinnamonor¼tspofcayennepepper.Makes24servings.

2sprayscookingspray,flourvarietyrecommended½cupcannedblackbeans,rinsedanddrained.

¼cupstrongblackcoffee½cupunsaltedbutter4oz.Bittersweetchocolate4largeeggs1¼cupssugar1tsp.Vanilla1/8tsp.Tablesalt1cupallpurposeflourPreheatoven to350.Coat a9x13panwith cooking spray; linewithaluminum foil andcoat foil with cooking spray. In a blender or mini food processor, process beans withcoffee until smooth; set aside. In a double boiler over very low heat, melt butter andchocolate.Meanwhile, in amediumbowl, using an electricmixer, beat eggs and sugaruntillightandfluffy.Withmixeronlowspeed,addmeltedchocolatetoeggs,incorporatewell.Addblackbeanmixture,vanillaandsalt.Mixwell.Addflour,combinethoroughlyonlowspeed.

Pourbatterintopreparedpanandbakeuntilatesterinsertedincenterofbrowniescomesout clean, about 23 to 30 minutes. Remove pan to a cooling rack. After 10 minutes,remove brownies from pan by pulling up on the aluminum foil. Place brownies on acoolingracktocoolmore.Cutinto24piecesandserve.

PostRaisinCranberryBreadCranberriescanberefrigeratedforamonthorfrozenforup to1year.Throwawayanyberriesthataresoft,discoloredorshriveled.Thisislowinsodium.1egg1cupmilk1tbsp.Gratedorangepool1/3freshorangejuice¼cupoil2cupsPostRaisinBranCereal1¾cupsflour1cupsugar1tbsp.Bakingpowder¼tsp.Salt1cupcranberries,coarselychopped½cuppecanpieces.

Preheatovento350.Beategg,milk,orangepeel,juiceandoilinmediumbowlwithwirewhisk untilwell blended. Stir in cereal. Let stand 5min.Meanwhile,mix flour, sugar,bakingpowderandsaltinlargebowl.Addcerealmixture;stirjustuntilmoistened.Batterwillbelumpy.Stirincranberriesandpecans.Pour intogreasedandfloured9x5 inch loafpan.Bake1hourand15minutesoruntilwooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10minutes in pan; removefrompantowirerack.Coolcompletely.Foreasierslicing,wrapbreadandstoreovernightbeforecuttingintoslicesthenextday.

Glazeforcheesecake

1smallboxofcookandservevanillapudding

1smallboxofjelloflavorofyourchoiceofjuiceifpossible2cupsofjuice(IusedblackberrysavedfromberrypickingthissummerMixtogetherandbringtoaboil.Itwillturnclearerandgetthicker.Whenitgetscoolitwillsetuplikejello,justmeltinthemicrowaveandservewarmovercheesecakeorpoundcake.Couldalsobeusedonsugarcookiesthatyoutopwithacreamcheeseandthenadollopofglaze.

Cookiejewels

Creamcheesetoppingforsugarcookies1pkg.8oz.Creamcheese½cupsugar1tbspoflemonjuiceMixtogetherandputontopofcookies.Putatouchoftheglazeontopofthat.

Peanutbuttercheesecake

Ingredients¾cupgrahamcrackercrumbs2tbsp.Sugar2tbsp.Butter,melted¾cupcreamypeanutbutter

Filling:2packages8ounceseachfatfreecreamcheese1package8ouncesreducedfatcreamcheese1cup8ouncesreducedfatsourcream¾cupsugar2eggs,lightlybeaten1½tsp.Vanillaextract¾cuphotfudgeicecreamtopping,divided6peanutbuttercups,cutintosmallwedges

Inasmallbowl,combinethecrackercrumbs,sugarandbutter.Pressontothebottomofa9inchspringformpancoatedwithcookingspray.Placepanonabakingsheet.Bakeat350for10minutes.Coolonawirerack.Inamicrowavesafebowl,heatpeanutbutteronhigh for30 secondsoruntil softened.Spreadover crust towithin1 inchof edges. In alargebowl,beatthecreamcheese,sourcreamandsugaruntilsmooth.Addeggs;beatonlow speed just until combined. Stir in vanilla. Pour 1 cup into a bowl; set aside. Pourremainingfillingoverpeanutbutterlayer.Inamicrowavesafebowl,heat1/4thcupfudgetopping on high for 30 seconds or until thin; fold into reserved cream cheesemixture.Carefullypouroverfilling;cutthroughwithaknifetoswirl.Returnpantobakingsheet.Bakefor50to60minutesoruntilcenterisalmostset.Coolon awire rack for 10minutes or until center is almost set.Cool on awire rack for 10minutes.Carefullyrunaknifearoundedgeofpantoloosen;cool1hourlonger.Microwaveremainingfudgetoppingonhighfor30secondsoruntilwarmed;spreadovercheesecake.Garnishwithpeanutbuttercupsorbrokenupheathbar.Refrigerateovernight.

NoCrustStrawberryCheesecakePie

28oz.Creamcheese,softened1cupstrawberrytoppingorpreserves(Iusedmyfreezerjam)¼cupsugar2eggs½tsp.Lemonjuice

Iputallmyingredientsinablenderandpulseit.Ifusingamixer,beatcreamcheeseandsugaruntilfluffy.Addeggsoneatatime,thensugar,lemonjuiceandstrawberrytopping.Pour intoapieplate andbakeat350 for35minutesoruntil slightlybrownaround theedges.

Topping1cupsourcream3Tbsp.Sugar½tsp.LemonjuiceMixtogetherandspreadonhotpie.ThenIspreadmoreofthestrawberrytoppingonthetopofthepieasIservedit.Youcouldalsodecoratewithfreshfruit.Iwanttotryitwithraspberryandblackberrypreservesalso.delicious

PeanutButterChocolateCake

1(18.25oz.)packagechocolatecakemix.Iusedthedarkchocolate½teaspoonvanilla1cupofchocolatechipsorusepeanutbutterchips18oz.packagecreamcheese,softened½cupofbuttersoftened(1stick)1cuppeanutbutter2cupsconfectioners’sugar1teaspoonvanillaextractChocolatesaucetodrizzleonthetop.IusedHershey’sdarkchocolate.

Preheatovento350degrees.Greaseandflour9xx13pan.(Youcanusepowderedcocoatodustthepan.)

Makecakemixaccordingtopackage.Add½tspvanillaandstirinchocolatechips.Bakeaccordingtopackagedirections;coolcompletely.Meanwhile,inalargebowl,mixcreamcheese,butter,andpeanutbutteruntil thoroughlycombined.Mixinconfectioner’ssugarandvanillauntilsmooth.Frost cooled cake with peanut butter cream cheese frosting and drizzle with chocolatesauce.Keepintherefrigerator.Thisistoomuchforasheetcake,socuttheicinginhalf.Delicious

WhitefruitcakeByEthelBrehmPreheatovento275degrees1cupcookingoil1½cupssugar4eggsMixtogetherandbeatvigorouslywithspoonorelectricmixerfor2minutesSifttogether:2cupssiftedflour1tspbakingpowder2tsp.SaltStirinoilmixturealternatelywith1cuppineappleorapplejuiceMix:1morecupofflour1cupthinlyslicedcitron

½cupthinlyslicedcandiedlemonpeel1cupcandiedpineapplein1inchpieces1½cupswholecandiedcherries3cupsseedlesswhiteraisins(1pound)2cupsnutsinlargepiecesPourbatteroverfruit,mixingthoroughly.Linewithparchmentpaper2greasedloafpans,8½by4½by2½inches.Pourbatterintothepans.Placeapanofwateronlowerovenrack.Bakecake2½5o3hoursinslowovenat 275. After baking let cakes stand 15 minutes before removing from pans. Coolthoroughly on racks without removing paper. When cool, remove paper. Store bywrapping tightly in aluminum foil and then placing in a covered jar in a cool place toripen.

Surprisecupcakes

½cupshortening1cupsugar1egg1tsp.Vanilla1¾cupofflour2½tspbakingpowder½tsp.Salt¾cupmilk1/3cupjelly

Inalargemixingbowl,creamshorteningandsugar.Addeggbeatingwell.Beatinvanilla.Combinetheflour,bakingpowderandsalt.Addtocreamedmixturealternatelywithmilk.

Fill 18 paper linedmuffin cups half full. Spoon 1 teaspoon jelly in the center of each.Bakeat375for15to20minutesoruntilatoothpickinserted1inchfromtheedgecomesoutclean.Coolfor5minutes;removefrompanstowirerackstocoolcompletely.Frostanddecoratewithsprinklesifdesired.

Martha’cookiedoughsurprise

Dropateaspoonofcookiedoughinthemiddleofthecupcakebeforebaking.Mix up chocolate chip cookie dough. Form the dough into balls and place them in thefreezerabout15minutes.Thatwillgiveyoutimetomakethecupcakesanddivideitupbetween themuffin cups. Drop one ball into themiddle of eachmuffin cup and pressdowngentlyintothebatter.Bakeasusual.Theywillemergepuffedandgoldenwithonlyatinyspotofcookiedoughvisibleinthecenter.Usejustaglazeoficingonthetopordustwithconfectioner’ssugaraftertheycool.

Chocolatecoveredwhitecheesecake

1½cupschocolatewafercrumbs(about27wavers)3tablespoonsbutter,meltedFilling:3packages(80unceseach)creamcheese,softened½cupsugar¼cupheavywhippingcream1teaspoonvanillaextract3eggs,lightlybeaten

1½cupsvanillaorwhitechips,meltedandcooledGlaze:2cups(12ounces)semisweetchocolatechips1cupheavywhippingcream2tablespoonsbutter2tablespoonssugar1cupvanillaorwhitechips,meltedandcooledStripedchocolatekisses,optionalInasmallbowl,combinewafercrumbsandbutter;press intothebottomofagreased9inchspringformpan.Placepanonabakingsheet.Bakeat350degreesfor10minutes.Coolonawirerack.Inalargebowl,beatthecreamcheese,sugar,creamandvanillauntilsmooth.Addeggs;beatonlowspeedjustuntilcombined.Stirinmeltedvanillachips.Pourintocrust.Placepanonadouble thicknessofheavydutyfoilabout16by16.Securelywrapfoilaroundpan.Placespringformpaninalargerbakingpan.Add1inchhotwatertolargerpan.almostset.Bakeat350degreesfor65to70minutesoruntilcenterisRemovepanfromwaterbath.Coolonawirerack10minutes.Carefullyrunaknifearoundedgeofpantoloosen;cool1hourlonger.Refrigerateovernight.Forglaze,placechocolatechipsinalargebowl;setaside…inaheavysaucepan,bringthecream, butter and sugar to a boil overmedium-high heat, stirring constantly. Pour overchocolatechips.Coolfor3minutes.Stiruntilsmoothandcool.Removesidesofpan.Spreadglazeoverthetopandsidesofcheesecake.Refrigeratefor2hours.Drizzlemeltedvanillachipsovercheesecake.Garnishwithkissesifdesired.

Caramelfudgecheesecake

1packagefudgebrowniemix(8inchsquarepansize)1package14ouncescaramels¼cupevaporatedmilk1½cupscoarselychoppedpecan½cupsugar2eggs,lightlybeaten2ouncesunsweetenedchocolate,meltedandcooledPrepare brownie batter according to package directions. Spread into a greased 9 inchspringformpan.Placeonabakingsheet.Bakeat350degreesfor20minutes.Placepanonawirerackfor10minutes.Meanwhile,inamicrowavesafebowl,meltcaramelswithmilk.Pouroverbrowniecrust:sprinklewithpecans. Ina largebowl,beatcreamcheeseandsugar.Addeggs;beatonlowspeedjustuntilcombined.Stirinmeltedchocolate.Pourover pecans. Return pan to baking sheet. Bake for 35 to 40minutes of until center isalmostset.Coolonawirerackfor10minutes.Runaknifearoundedgeofpantoloosen;cool1hourlonger.Refrigerateovernight.Removesidesofpan.Refrigerateleftovers.

CanningPizzasauce

Tomakeonequart4cupoftomatosauce1tsp.Oregano½tspbasil½tsp.Salt½tsp.Pepper½tsp.Sugar¼tsp.Garlicpowder¼tsp.OnionpowderCookdowntodesiredthickness.

ChangesthatImadesothatIcouldcanit.Itmade4½pints

Ifilleda6quartCrockpotwithtomatojuicethatImade.Iletitcookdownforabout10to12hoursuntilitreducedhalfway.ThenIadded:1tsp.Oregano½tsp.Basil1½tsp.Salt1½tsp.Pepper3tsp.Sugar1tsp.Garlicpowderandonegarlicclove,minced1tsp.Onionpowderandhalfofalargeonion,minced1tsp.Cumin

You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. The second batch I had to addmoreseasoning,itdependsonhowmuchwaterisinyourjuice.Putinpintor½pintcanningjars,adjustlids.Processinaboilingwaterbathfor30min.Thisisdelicious

Godismoreinterestedinyourcharacterthanyourcomfort.Hemaynotgiveyouwhatyouthinkyouneed,butwhathethinksyouneed.Crockpotchili6qt.Tomatojuice1tbsp.Garlic1quartkidneybeansalreadycookedsmalloniondiced½cupsugar2tsp.Salt1tsp.Pepper2tbsp.Chilipowder2poundhamburger5drychilipeppers

Icookthejuicedownforseveralhoursandthenaddtheotheringredients.Finishcookingfor 6 to 8 hours and adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can “can” or freeze theleftovers.

CinnamonapplesauceThebestapplestouseareLodiortransparent.Cutthe washed apples in quarters and core. Put in a large kettle and addwater¾ of theway to cover the apples.Heat slowly to a simmerwhilestirring. The apples will melt into mush. Run this through a calendar.

Thiswillremovetheskinsandgiveagoodconsistencytotheapplesauce.To8pintsofapplesauceIadd:6oz.Ofredhots1½cupsplenda (myhusband isdiabetic,youcanuse sugar)Adashof salt.Usingsaltmeansthatyoucanuselesssugar.Itdoesnottakemuch.SprinklewithFruitfreshtokeeptheapplesaucefromturningdark.Thisalsomakesgoodfruitleather.

Nomatterhowbadthingsare inyourlife, there isalwayssomethinggoodyoucanthankGodfor.SpaghettisauceFromJimmy12cuptomatoes4cans29oz.Tomatosauce24oz.Tomatopaste1tsp.Mincedgarlic1tsp.Oregano1tsp.Basil1bayleaf2tbsp.Parsley4beefbouilloncubes1carrot½cuponionand½cupgreenpepper sautéed.Cook5hrs. in crockpotAdd1 cupofparmesanandcookadditionalhour.Cancoolandfreezeinfreezerbags.Middleageiswhenyouchooseyourcerealforthefibernotthetoy.Chilibeans1cuponionor2tbsp.Onionpowder4tbsp.Chilipowder1tbsp.Salt¼tsp.Blackpepper1quarttomatojuice1canofRoteldicedtomatoesandgreenchilis2poundsbeans,pintoorredkidney

Wash1quartofdrybeans.Thoroughlycoverwithcoldwaterandsoakovernight.Drainthewaterandaddnewenoughtocoverthebeans.Icookedmineinacrockpotabout6hours until tender and the water had evaporated down to the top of the beans. Then Iaddedtheotheringredientsandstirredwell.

Pack into hot jars to within ½ inches of top. Screw band firmly tight. Yield 8 pints.Process60minutesat10poundspressure.Donotputmeatinthejars.Delicious

Forgetthehealthfood;IneedallthepreservativesthatIcanget.

Bakedbeans2poundsdrybeans,soakedinwaterovernight1tsp.Onionpowderorsmallonionchopped1cupketchup1cupbarbecuesauce2/3cuppackedbrownsugar4tbsp.Whitecornsyrup2½tsp.Groundredpepper3tsp.Salt½tsp.Blackpepper2cupwater½tsp.GroundcuminCookbeansuntil tender, rinse anddrain.Add theother ingredients.Stir into thebeans.

ThenIaddedanother½cupketchupand½cupbarbequesauce.Putinjarsandprocess60minutesat10poundspressure.

Whenyoufalldown,youwonderwhatelseyoucandowhileyouaredownthere.Bakedbeans

4poundsofwhitebeans.Soakedovernight,drainandcoverwithfreshwater.Cookuntiltender.Drain.Add:2roundedteaspoononionpowder6teaspoonsalt1teaspoonblackpepper1teaspooncumin3teaspoongroundredpepper1cuppackedbrownsugar½cupwhitekaro3cupsbarbequesauce3cupscatsup½cupwhitesugar1tablespoonseasoningsaltMixalltogetherandplaceinoventobakeforanhour.Filljarsandprocessat10poundspressurefor60minutes.Makes16pints.

Jalapenogreentomatorelish

6qt.Bowlroundedhighwithgreentomatoescutintochunks3tbsp.Salt3largeonions1cupjalapeno3clovesgarlicSprinkle tomatoes with salt and let set. It draws a lot of water out of the tomatoes. Iusuallyletthemsetovernight.Thenextdaychunkthetomatoes.Iuseahandgrindertogrindmyvegetables.Youcanaddmoreorlessofthejalapenodependingonhowhotyouwouldlikeyourrelish.Drainexcesswateroffthetomatoesaftergrinding.

Syrup10cupsvinegar2cupswater7cupssugar5driedchilipeppers2tsp.salt

Bringtoasimmer.Removethechilipeppers.Pourthesyrupoverthegroundtomatoes.Itprobablywon’ttakeallofthesyrup.Packincleanjarsmakingsurethesyrupcoverstotheneckofthejar.Wipethetopofjars,placesterilizedlidsonandtherings.Tighten.Placeinahotwaterbathfor20min.Starttimingwhenthewaterboils.Makesurethewatercoversthetopofjars.Igot14pintsandcanned3pintsofleftoversyruptouseaspicklejuice.Delicious.Lifeislikeahotbathe,thelongeryoustayinthemorewrinkledyouget.

Pickled green tomatoes 6 qt.Tupperware bowl of tomatoeswashed andcutinchunks.Sprinklewith3Tbspofsalttodrawoffliquid.Allowtosetforseveralhours.Pouroffliquid.Tomakesyrup:7cupsugar10cupvinegar2cupwater2tsp.Salt5driedredpeppers3clovesgarlic2onionsslicedorusepearlonions3wholejalapenos6slicedandseededjalapeno’s

I removed red peppers andwhole peppers before canning. I just put them in the syrupwhileitwasheating.Iaddtomatoesandonionsandcookseveralminutes.Packtomatoesandonionsinjars.Coverwithsyrup.Process15minutesinhotwaterWeranitthroughtheblenderanditmadethebestrelish.Ialsousedsplenda

Iusedclovesofgarlicinthejarandsomepearlonions.Ialsousedajalapenointhejar.Thisisabsolutelydelicious.

God’sloveisliketheocean,youcanseeitsbeginningbutnotitsend.ThePennsylvaniaDutchbroughtthetraditionofcoloringeggstoTheU.S.

PeachpiefillingFor1quartFreshpeaches3½cups¾cupgranulatedsugar1cup

Cornstarchorthermofloorcleargel.¼cup+1tbsp1/8tsp.Vanillaoralmondextract1/4cupbottledlemonjuice

Tomake7quartsFreshpeaches7quarts5¼Quartsofwater7cupsofsugar1½cupcornstarch,thermofloorclearget1tsp.Vanilla1½cupbottledlemonjuice

Combinewater, sugar, clear gel in a large kettle. Stir and cookovermediumhigh heatuntilmixture thickensandbegins tobubble.Thenadd lemon juiceandboil the sauceaminutemore,stirringconstantly.(Ittastedtomeliketoomuchlemon,butwhenIaddedthevanillaandaspoonofmargarineitwasjustright.)

Ihavefoundthatitworksbesttomixthepeachesandthethickeninginalargepan.IalsoaddedmorepeachestothethickeningwhenIsawtherewasgoingtobeextrathickening.

Put in jars, adjust lids and process for 30minutes in a water bath. I also sprinkle thepeacheswith1tsp.Offruitfreshineachquartjarontopofthepeaches.Thiskeepsthem

fromturningdark.

Wegotbetween17and18pints.ToPeelPeaches

Bringakettleofwatertoaboil.Dipthepeachesinfor5seconds.Immediatelyliftoutandputinicewater.Ifthepeachesareinthehotwateranylongertheygettoosoft.Theicewaterstopsthecookingaction.Theskinwilljustslipoffofthepeaches.UseFruitFreshoranotherascorbicacidtokeepthemfromturningdark.

Whyusecleargel?

Clear gel is a corn starch that has been modified to give it special and uniquecharacteristics.Whenusedinfoodproducts.ItisrecommendedbytheUSDAformakingpiefillingsbecauseitdoesnotbreakdownintheacidfoodmixturesanddoesnotthickentoomuchduringheatprocessingtointerferewiththeintendedeffectoftheheatonkillingbacteriaduringcanning.Inotherwordsitreducesspoilageandissaferthancornstarch.Itis preferred for thickening canned pie fillings as well as other foods over other cornstarchesbecauseithaslessornoaftertaste,thethickenedjuicesaresmoothandclearandfoodsthickenedwithCleargelmaybefrozen.Ilikeitmuchbetterthancornstarch.ThekindthatIusedwascalledThermoFloandisanimprovedCleargel.YoucanbuyitatanAmishstore.

Sweetcherrypiefilling

6qt.Cherries7cupssugar1½cupcleargel91/3cupwater½cuplemonjuice2tsp.Almondextract.Addthesugar,cleargel,waterandbringtoaboil.Thenaddthelemonjuice,extractandcherries.Putinjar,sealinboilingwaterbathfor30min.

Sourcherrypiefilling

6qt.CherriesMixtogether:4qt.Water7cupsugar1¾cupclearjellBringtoaboil.Addcherriesandstir.Thenadd:1½tsp.AlmondflavorDashsaltStirthoroughlyandputinjars.Hotwaterbathfor30minutes.

BlueberryPieFilling3quartblueberries2qt.Water3cupsofsugar’3/4cupcleargel

DashsaltBringwater,sugarandcleargeltoaboil.Adddashofsaltandblueberries.Stirthoroughlyandputinjars.Hotwaterbathfor30minutes.

OnevoraciousinsectpestoftomatoesisthelarvaoftheHawkMoth,knownasthetomatohornworm.Thesebigcrawlerswillgrowtoaboutthreeincheslongandthreefourthsofaninchindiameter.Theycanappearandnearlystripatomatoplantinprettyshortorder.Thebestmethod for control is to hand-pick and squash them.They do their best to remainunseen,as theyarenearlytheexactcolorof thetomatoplant itself.However,oncetheybeginravagingyourplants,you’llbedeterminedtofindthecritters.Ifyouseeoneofthewormswithwhatlookslikegrainsofricealloverit,don’tdestroyit.Thewhitebitsareactually the tinycocoonsof theBraconidWaspandarekilling thewormforyou.Theywillhatchandtakeofftofindotherhornwormsaswell.

911sauces

Beware! This stuff is delightfully dangerous. 2 Tbsp. olive oil ½ cuponions, chopped fine ½ cup celery, minced 2 Tbsp. red or green sweetpeppers,minced3Tbsp.Thaihotpeppers,minced1clovegarlic,choppedfine4mediumtomatoes,chopped2Tbsp.lemonjuice1tsp.honey½tsp.driedbasil¼tsp.driedcoriander¼tsp.cuminseeds¼tsp.chilipowderIn a large skillet, heat the oil. Add the onions, celery, sweet and hotpeppers,andgarlic.Cookfor5minutes,stirringoccasionally.Stirinthetomatoes, lemon juice, honey, basil, coriander, cumin seeds, and chilipowder. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 20minutes.Makesabout5half-pints.Blueberry ,blackberry freezer jelly 1 cup blueberry juice 1 cupblackberryjuice4cupssugar2tbsp.Lemonjuice1packetcertoTogetthejuicefromfruit,Iputtheminasaucepanwithalittlewatertokeepfrom sticking. Bring to a simmer and turn off the heat. I use a potatomashertomashthefruitandthenrunitthroughacolander.Letitdrainforacoupleofhours.Youneedtwocupsofjuiceandaddthesugar.Stirforabout3minutesandletsetfor10minutes.Putthepacketofcertointothe lemon juice. Combine the two after 10minutes and stir for severalminutesuntilthesugarisdissolved.Pourintocontainersandputthelidon.Leaveset for24hoursbeforeputting in the freezer.Theblueberriesenhancetheflavoroftheblackberries.Itmakesalittleover6halfpints.DeliciousWisdomcomeswithage,butsometimesagecomesalone.DONOTUSEANALUMINUMPANTOCOOKTOMATOESIN.Tomatoketchup

2gallonstomatojuice2onions3tsp.groundcloves

3tsp.Groundcinnamon3cupsvinegar8tsp.SaltCelery,mango,jalapeno,andbeets,chopped,totaste6cupssugar6tbsp.Cornstarch

Boiltomatojuice,onions,cloves,cinnamon,vinegarandsaltuntil1/3theamountisleft.(Mayaddceleryandmangototaste,jalapenosforhotketchup,andbeetforaddedcolor.)Mixsugarwithcornstarch.Mixintotomatojuicemixtureslowly.Cookuntilthick.Putinhotjarsandseal.Makes8to9pints.

Martha’sspecialcatsup

6qts.Tomatojuice1cupvinegar½oniondicedfine1garlicclovedicedfine1/3cupbrownsugar1cupgranulatedsugar1tbsp.And½tsp.Seasalt½tsp.Cumin½tsp.Redpepper1tsp.Cinnamon¼tsp.Drymustard1/8tsp.Groundcloves½tsp.Blackpepper1driedredpepper1/3cupcornsyrup½tsp.Chilipowder4tbsp.Cleargelorcornstarch

Combineallingredientsina6qt.Crockpotexceptcleargelorcornstarch.Cookdownatleast1/3to½.Thickenbymixingcleargelorcornstarchwithalittlecoldwater.StirintoCrockpotuntilwellmixed.Adjustspicestoyourtaste.Pourintoyourcanningcontainers(Iused½pints).ItdoesnothavepreservativessoIwantedtouseitupfairlyfast.Processinaboilingwaterbathfor30minutes.

Happinesskeepsyousweet,Trialskeepyoustrong,Sorrowskeepyouhuman,Fearskeepsyouhumble,Successkeepsyouglowing,ButonlyGodkeepsyougoing.

CATSUPINAPINCH

3cans6oz.Tomatopaste¼cuphoney/4cupbrownsugar1tsp.Salt½tsp.Cinnamon/4tsp.ClovesPinchcayennePinchallspicePinchgarlicpowder

¾cupcidervinegarWaterasnecessaryfordesiredconsistency.

TOMATOSOUP

6qt.Tomatojuice¼tsp.Basil¼tsp.Oregano½tbsp.Parsley4onionsdicedor4tsp.Ofpowderedonion4tbsp.Sugar2½tbsp.Salt½tsp.Redpepper1tbsp.BlackpepperSome of my homemade seasoning salt. I cooked it down in the crock pot. Adjust theseasoningstosuityourtaste.Cookdownat least 1/3.Use½cupof cornstarchor clear gel and a little coolwater tothicken the soup. Stir thoroughly and let cook for a little longer. Put in pint jars andprocessfor2hoursinaboilingwaterbath.Servewithtoppingsofsourcream,cheeseordicedonion.DeliciousJimthinksitneedsalittlemoresugar

TomatorelishfromAlbertaFollick

18eachfirmripetomatoes1stalkcelery(bunch)4mediumonions2sweetgreenpeppers2sweetredpeppers1/3cupsalt2¼cupgranulatedsugar½teaspoongroundcloves2teaspoongroundcinnamon½teaspoonblackpepper2tablespoonmustardseed,tiedinabag.Iused½tsp.Drymustardinsteadofseeds.1½cupapplecidervinegar

Peel tomatoes, then chop into small pieces. Chop celery, onions, and peppers into finepieces. Mix together the vegetables and salt. Place in refrigerator overnight. Drainthoroughly in themorning. Combine sugar, spices and vinegar;make sure the sugar isdissolved,inalargesaucepan.Bringtoaoilandsimmer3minutes.Addvegetablesandreturntoaboil.Simmerfor10moreminutes,stirringoccasionally.Removecheeseclothbagholdingmustard seeds.Spoon intohot sterilized jars and seal.Place in ahotwaterbathfor30minutes.Delicious

PickledGreenTomatoesfromMaeThompson

10poundsgreentomatoessliced¼inchthick1cupcanningsalt1gal.WaterMixsaltandwaterandpourovertomatoesincrock.Letstandovernight.Drain.Rinsein

coldwaterseveraltimesandletdrain.Putbackincrock.Add.6onions,sliced2sweetgreenpeppers,diced2sweetredpeppers,dicedTomakesyrup3poundsofsugarsameas6cupsofsugar2quartapplecidervinegarTieincheesecloth:1Tablespoonofwholecloves1tablespoonofmixedpicklingspice1stickofcinnamon.Bringtoaboilandpourovertomatoes.Letstanduntilthenextmorning.Pouroffsyrupand bring to a boil again and pour over tomatoes. Do this for 3 days. On the fourthmorning,heatsyruptoboilingandremovespices.Putinsterilizedjarsandseal.Processfor10minutesinahotwaterbath.

Mixedpickledvegetables

SummeryellowsquashorzucchinislicedOnionslicedBroccolicutinsmallpiecesCauliflowercutinsmallpiecesCarrotssliced3driedcayennePieceofjalapenoineachjar

Precookthevegetablesinsaltwateruntiltender.Placeincrockbowl.Followrecipeabovefor the syrup and add the 3 dried cayenne peppers. I heated the syrup for 2 days andcannedonthethirdday.Icanneditinhalfpintsforthe2ofus.Ialsocannedpicklesthiswayinsteadoftomatoes.Thissyrupmakeseverythinggood.

Growingoldismandatory,growingupisoptionalCandiedwatermelonrind

1½quartspreparedwatermelonrind4T.ofsalt3½quartswaterdivided1T.ginger4cupssugar1/4cuplemonjuice½cupthinlyslicedlemon

Trimgreenpeelandpinkfleshfromthickwatermelonrind.Cutrind into1 inchpieces.Dissolvesaltin2quartswater.Poursaltedwateroverrind.Letstand5to6hours.Drain,rinse, and drain again. Cover rind with cold water and let stand 30 minutes. Drain.Sprinklegingeroverrind.Coverwithwater,cookuntilforktender.Drain.

To prepare preserves. Combine sugar, lemon juice and 1 ½ quarts water in a largesaucepan.Boil 5minutes.Add rind andboil gently 30minutes or until syrup thickens.Addslicedlemon;cookuntilmelonrindistransparent.Removefromheat.Skimfoamifnecessary.Ladlehotpreservesintohotjars,leaving½inchheadspace.Adjusttwopiece

caps.Process20minutesinaboilingwatercanner.Yieldabout6halfpints.

Itsfrustratingwhenyouknowalltheanswersbutnobodybotherstoaskyouthequestions.

SweetandSpicySauceDeliciousAtasteofThaitasteslikethebroncoberrysaucefromArby’s3cupswater1cupsugar1cupcornsyrup2tbsp.CornstarchIusedthermoflooranotherthickeningthatyoucanbuyatanAmishstore.Itdoesnotgetthicklikecornstarchafteritiscannedorintherefrigerator.Itstaysliquidenoughthatyoucanpourit.4tbsp.Fruitpectin3tbsp.Cidervinegar½tsp.Redfoodcoloring1tsp.Onionpowder1tsp.Garlicpowder1tsp.CayennePepper1tsp.Paprika1cupredbellpepperfinelyminced2tsp.cannedjalapenofinelyminced(2small)Dashsalt(dashisabout¼tsp.)Mix all ingredients except for peppers in a saucepan and stir well. Set saucepan overmedium / high heat, uncovered. Add peppers and bringmixture to a full boil, stirringoften.Reduceheatandsimmersauceforabout½houroruntilitstartstothicken.Putinhotjarsandseal.Itmakes5to6halfpintjars.Processinahotwaterbathfor15minutes.

CaramelizedOnionJamIfyoulikegarlicandonionsyouwilllovethis

4wholegarlicbulbs1tsp.Canolaoil5cupschoppedsweetonions(about1½pounds)¼cupbutter,cubed¾cupcidervinegar½cupbottledlemonjuice¼cupbalsamicvinegar1½tsp.Groundmustard1tsp.Salt3//4tsp.Whitepepper½tsp.Groundginger¼tsp.Groundcloves6cupssugar1pouch(3oz)Liquidfruitpectin

Removepaperyouterskinfromgarlic,(donotpeelorseparatecloves).Cuttopoffgarlicbulbs;brushwithoil.Wrapeachbulbinheavydutyfoil.Bakeat425for30to35minutesoruntilsoftened.Coolfor10to15minutes.InaDutchoven,sautéonionsinbutterfor30to40minutesoruntillightlybrowned.Squeezesoftenedgarlicintopan.Stirinthecidervinegar,lemonjuice,balsamicvinegar,mustard,salt,pepper,gingerandcloves.Bringtoarollingboil.Graduallyaddsugar,stirringconstantly.Returntoaboilfor3minutes.

Addpectin;bringtoafullrollingboil.Boilfor1minute,stirringconstantly.Removefromtheheat;letstandfor3minutes.Skimofffoam.Pourhotmixtureintohotjars,leaving¼inchheadspace.Adjustcaps.Processfor10minutesinaboilingwaterbath.Makesabout3½pints.

CaramelApplejelly

6cupspeeledapples(1/8inchcubes½cupwater½tsp.Butter1pkg.12/3oz.Powderedfruitpectin3cupssugar2cupspackedbrownsugar½tsp.Groundcinnamon¼tsp.Groundnutmeg

InaDutchoven,combinetheapples,waterandbutter.Cookandstiroverlowheatuntilapples are tender. Stir in pectin and bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.Add thesugars, cinnamon and nutmeg and return to a rolling boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirringconstantly.

Removefromtheheat;skimofffoam.Carefullyladlehotmixtureintohothalfpintjars,leaving¼inchheadspace.Removeairbubbles;wiperimsandadjustlids.Processfor10minutesinaboilingwatercanner.Yields:7halfpints.

CandyAppleJelly

4cupsapplejuice½cupredhotcandies1pkg.(1¾oz.Powderedfruitpectin4½cupssugar

Ina large saucepan, combine theapple juice, candiesandpectin.Bring toa full rollingboiloverhighheat,stirringconstantly.Stirinsugar;returntoafullrollingboil.Boilfor2minutes,stirringconstantly.

Removefromtheheat;skimoffanyfoamanddiscardanyundissolvedcandies.Carefullyladlehotmixtureintohotsterilizedhalfpintjars,leaving¼inchheadspace.Removeairbubbles,wiperimsandadjustlids.Processfor5minutesinaboilingwatercanner.Yieldabout6halfpints.

PickledBeets

Cook beets until tender, peel and dice.Use enough vinegar to cover the beets in a bigkettle.Use the sameamount of sugar asyouusedvinegar.Someasure thevinegar andthenthesugar.Ithensalttotasteandaddwholecloves.Bringtoasimmer.Putinjarsandprocessinahotwaterbathfor30minutes.MeasurementsfromthelastbatchthatIdid.20cupsofdicedbeets.8½cupsofsugar8½cupsofcidervinegar1 tablespoonof salt.Taste and addmore asneeded. I added2more teaspoonof salt. 2tablespoonsofwholecloves.Ibroughttoaboilandthenputinjars.Sealandhotwaterbathfor30minutes.

CannedBeanstoDryBeanConversion

1cupdried=2to2½cupscookedbeans1cupdriedbeans=to1to1¼poundcookedbeans1canbeans=2cupscookedbeans1canbeans=1cupdriedbeans1pounddriedbeans=2½cupdriedbeans1pounddriedbeans=5to6cupcookedbeans

Cannedgreentomatoslices24greentomatoeswashedandsliced2tbsp.SaltRemovetheexcess juicefromthetomatoesbysprinklingsaltonslicesandlettingthemsetatleast1hour.Iusuallyletthemsetseveralhoursorovernight.Drain.

Mix:½cuphoney2cupcidervinegar2cupwaterBoil5minutes.Packtomatoesinhotsterilizedjarsandpourthehotliquidoverthem.Adjustthelidsandprocessinaboilingwaterbath15minutesforpintsand20minutesforquarts.Makes6pints.

Theytastebetterthantheonesrightoutofthegarden.Drainofftheliquid,dipinflourandfryorifyoulikeabatterusewhatyouusuallyusetofrythem.Theyholdtheirshapeandcanbefriedcrispy.Imakealargerbatchandhavetomakethesyrupseveraltimestohaveenoughforeachjar.

CannedjalapenopeppersWashpeppersandmakeaslashintheside.Packtightlyinjar.Heattoboiling:1cupvinegar¼cupwater1tsp.SaltPour over peppers to within 1 inch of top of jar. Put on cap. Screw band tightly andprocess10minutesinaboilingwaterbath.

Spicytomatojuice13poundsripetomatoes(about40medium)1celeryribscoarselychopped3mediumonions,coarselychopped¼th.Cupdicedorslicedjalapeno9driedchilipeppers½cupsugar1tbsp.Worcestershiresauce4tsp.Salt¼tsp.PepperBlancheandpeel tomatoes.Put inkettlewithcelery,onions, jalapenoandchilipeppers.Cookuntilvegetablesaresoft,stiroccasionally.Coolslightlyandputthroughasieveorfoodmill.Returntokettle.Addremainingingredients,mixwell.Bringtoaboil.Removefromtheheat;cool.Pourintofreezercontainers,leaving½inchheadspace.Freezeupto12months.Yieldabout5quarts. Icannedminefollowingdirectionsforcanningtomato

juice.Delicious.

Canningpears

Cutpearsinhalf.Removecorewithamelonballerorteaspoonmeasuringspoon.Peelandtakeoutthelongstripgoingtothestem.Packinjarsandput1teaspoonoffruitfreshinjartokeepfromturningdark.Coverwithsyruptojustbelowtheringsonjar.Wipetopofjarsandputhotlidsontop.Tightenrings.Processinboilingwaterbathfor30minutes.

Tomakesyrup:4cupsofsugarand8cupsofwater.Bringtoaboilstirringonceinawhiletomeltsugar.Putoverpearsinjar.Tomakecinnamonpears,add½cupofcinnamonredhotstosyrupwiththesugar.Theywillmeltandmakethesyrupaprettypink.

Chilimixinajar

3cupsdriedbeans,anykind.Putintoajarorlargebag.3tbsp.Mildchilipowder2tbsp.Dehydratedonions1tbsp.Granulatedgarlic2tsp.Salt½tsp.Cayennepepper

Combinespicesandputintoasmallbag.

Includeinyourgiftbasket18oz.Cantomatosauce214oz.Cansdicedtomatoesinjuice.

Label:washbeans.Putintopotwithspices.Cookuntildone,about1to1½hours.IputmineintheCrockpotandletthemcookallnight.

Brown1lb.Groundbeefifdesired,anddrain.Addmeattothebeanswiththetomatoesandsauce.Simmertoblendflavors.

Anotherchilimixinajar

1cupdriedkidneybeans½acupdriedpintobeans1(11/4oz.)packagetacoseasoningmix1oz.Packagebuttermilksaladdressingmix3tbsp.Driedmincedonion1tbsp.Chilipowder¼tsp.Groundcumin1½cupscornortortillachipsPutingredientsinaziplockbag.Makesonebatch1cupswater113/4oz.dicedtomatoesandgreenchilies16oz.tomatosauce1poundgroundbeef,cookedanddrained

Forthemix,ina1quartwidemouthjar,layerkidneyandpintobeans.

In a small bowl, combine taco seasoning mix, dried salad dressing mix, onion, chili

powder,andcumin.Wrapseasoningsinplasticwrapandplaceinjar.

Putchipsinabagandplaceinjar.Decoratewithribbonorfabric.Donotputmeatinthejars.

For the chili, place beans in a large bowl, coverwithwater and soak 6 to 8 hours, orovernight.Drainandadd toaDutchoven.Addseasoningpacket,water,diced tomatoesandgreenchilies,tomatosauce,andgroundbeef.

Heat to boiling, cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 2 hours, or until beans aretender.Servewithcornortortillachips.ChangesthatImade.Iused1quartofkidneybeanscannedandonepintofpintobeanscannedandnowater.Jimlikeshisbeansreallytender.Iused2quartofmycannedtomatojuiceandwhenusinghomecannedtomatoesyouneedtoaddalittlesugar.Iadded2tbsp.Sugarand½tsp.Salt.Thiscouldbecookedinacrockpot.Wefixedabowl,toppedwithcrumbledFritos.Youcouldalsousesourcream,salsaandcheddarcheese.

Southwesterndip

½cupdriedparsleyflakes1/3cupdriedmincedonion1/3cupchilipowder¼cupdriedchives¼cupgroundcumin1tsp.SaltInamediumbowl,combineparsley,onion,chilipowder,chives,cuminandsalt.Tomakedipuse:2tablespoonsSouthwesternDipMix1cupsourcream1cupmayonnaise

Stir theaboveuntil smooth.Refrigerateat least2hours for flavors toblend.Servewithchipsorfreshvegetables.

ZucchiniSteamorblanchgratedzucchiniinsmallquantities1to2min.untiltranslucent.Packinmeasuredcontainers.Ifwaterywhenthawed,discardtheliquidbeforeusingthezucchini.

Cookies

BlondbrowniesDelicious2cupsflour1tsp.Bakingpowder¾tsp.Salt¼tsp.Bakingsoda1¼sticksunsaltedbutter(10tbsp.)2cupspackedgoldenbrownsugar2largeeggs2tsp.Vanilla¾cupchocolatechips¾cupchoppedpecans

Preheatovento350degrees.Flourandbuttera9x13x2inchpan.Siftflourintoabowl,mixflour,bakingpowder,salt,andbakingsoda.Setaside.Meltbutter. Inmixingbowl,placemeltedbutterandaddsugar,mixingwell.Addeggsandvanilla,mixingwell.Addflour slowly, blending. Batter will be slightly thick. Spread in pan. Sprinkle chocolatechipsandpecansoverall.(Imixedthenutsandchipsinbatter)bake30min.oruntildone.Servewarmwithicecreamontoporusethecinnamonvanillasaucebelow.

Cinnamonvanillasauce

½cupgranulatedsugar2tbsp.Cornstarch2cinnamonsticks12oz.Evaporatedmilk1½tsp.VanillaPoundcakeorblondbrowniestoppedwithicecreamSaucetoserveovercake;combinesugar,cornstarchandcinnamonsticksinmediumsaucepan.Graduallystir inevaporatedmilk.Cookovermediumheat,stirringconstantlyoruntilmixturecomesjusttoaboilandslightlythickens.Removefromheatandremovecinnamonsticks,stirinvanillaextract.

Peanutbuttersandwichcookies

1cupbutter1cupcreamypeanutbutter1cupsugar1cuppackedbrownsugar1tsp.Vanilla3eggs3cupflour2tsp.Bakingsoda½tsp.SaltFilling1cupcreamypeanutbutter½cuprealbutter,softened4cuppowderedsugar2tsp.Vanilla5to6Tbsp.MilkPreheatovento375.Creamshortening,peanutbutter,andsugarstogetheruntillightandfluffy.Addvanillaandeggsoneatatime.Inaseparatebowl,whisktogetherflour,bakingsoda,andsalt.Addtodough.Mixtocombine.Thedoughwillbeverysoft.Refrigerateforatleastanhour.rollintoballs,rollinsugarandplaceoncookiesheet.Dipforkinsugarandmakecrisscrossmarksontop.Makeyourballssmallcausethespread.Bakefor6to7minutes.Youwantthemtostaysoftsodon’toverbake.To make the filling, whip the peanut butter and butter together until smooth. Addpowderedsugarandvanilla.Thenaddmilkonetbspata time.Youmaynotneeditall.Youwant the filling to be on the thick side so that it stays in placewhen you bite thecookie.Youcanputthefillinginaheftyziplockwithacornercutofftomakefillingeasy.Put

fillingononehalfandtopwithanothercookie.Makes4doz.Sandwiches.Whyisitthatatclassreunionsyoufeelyoungerthaneveryoneelselooks?

Pilgrimhats

1cupvanillafrosting7dropsyellowfoodcoloring32miniaturepeanutbuttercups1pkg.11½oz.Fudgestripedcookies32piecesorangeminiChicletsgum(Iusedorangestinycandies)1cupfudgesfrosting.

Ifrostedthecookieswiththefudgefrosting.Takethepaperoffthepeanutbuttercups.Putthewhitefrostinginabowlandaddthefoodcoloring.Mixthoroughly.Dipthetopofcupintheyellowfrosting.Positionitovercenterholeofacookieandpressdownformingthehatbandandcrown.Addtheorangeforabuckle.Makes32cookies.

SnickerdoodleSandwichesFilling:6oz.Creamcheese1cupmarshmallowcreamWhipandspreadononecookieandtopwithanother.

Snickerdoodles

1cupbutterormargarine,softened1½cupssugar2eggs1tsp.vanilla22/3cupsflour1tsp.creamoftartar½tsp.soda¼tsp.salt2tbsp.Sugar2tsp.cinnamon

Preheat oven to 400. In mixing bowl take, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs andvanilla.Stirinflour,creamoftartar,sodaandsalt.Shapedoughintoballs,usingroundedtsp.ofdoughforeach.Combinesugarandcinnamon;rollballsofdoughinsugarmixture.Place2inchapartonungreasedbakingsheets.Bake8to10minutesoruntiledgesareset.About44cookies.

Scratchadogandyou’llfindapermanentjob.Noonehasmoredrivingambitionthantheboywhowantstobuyacar.Chocolatechipcheesecakebars

1pkg.8ozcreamcheese,softened½cupsugar1egg1roll(16.5oz)refrigeratedchocolatechipcookies

Heatovento350degrees.Insmallbowl,beatcreamcheese,sugar,andegguntilsmooth.Inungreased9or8inchsquarepan,breakuphalfofcookiedough.Withflouredfingers,press dough evenly in bottom of pan to form crust. Spread cream cheesemixture over

dough.Crumbleandsprinkle remaininghalfofdoughovercreamcheesemixture.Bake35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Cool 30 minutes.Refrigerateatleast2hoursoruntilchilled.Forbars,cutinto4rowsby4rows.Storeinrefrigerator.

Pecancaramelbars1cupbutter2¼cupspackedbrownsugar2eggs2tsp.Vanillaextract1½cupsallpurposeflour2tsp.Bakingpowder2cupschoppedpecans.Confectioner’ssugar,optional

Inasaucepan,heatbutterandbrownsugarovermediumheatuntilthesugarisdissolved.Inamixingbowl,combinetheeggs,vanillaandbuttermixture.Combineflourandbakingpowder;graduallyaddtothebuttermixture.Stirinpecans.

Spreadbatterintoagreased13x9bakingpan.Bakeat350for20to25minutesoruntiltoothpickinsertednearcentercomesoutwithmoistcrumbsandedgesarecrisp.Coolonwirerack.Dustwithconfectioner’ssugarifdesired.Cutintobars.Yield4dozen.Ittasteslikepecanpie.

AndesPeppermintcrunchchunkies2sticks(1/2lb.)unsaltedbutter,softened1cupdarkbrownsugar,packed1/3cupgranulatedsugar1largeegg2tsp.Vanillaextract½tsp.Bakingsoda½tsp.Salt1¾cupsallpurposeflour1cupoldfashionedrolledoats1¼cupscoarselychoppedpecan1½cupsAndesPeppermintCrunchBakingchipspreheatovento300degrees.Usinganelectricmixer,creamthebutter,brownsugarandgranulated sugaruntil fluffy (about3minutes).Beat in eggandvanilla extract.On lowspeed, add baking soda, salt and then flour. Mix completely. Stir in oats, pecans, andchips.

Measure out 2 tbsp. For large or 1 tbsp for small cookies. Place round balls on lightlygreasedcookiesheettwoinchesapart.Presslightly.Sprinklesomeoftheremainingchipsontopofeachcookie.Bakefor20minutesforlargecookiesor12to15minutesofsmall.Donotoverbake.Theygetcrunchyontheoutside,butremainsoftinside.Removefromcookiesheetandletcool.Iformedmineinlogsonsaranwrapandfroze.Thenletthaw,sliceandbake.

Peanutbutters’mores8largechocolatechipcookies4tsp.Hotfudgeicecreamtopping4largemarshmallows4peanutbuttercups

Spread thebottomsoffourcookieswithfudge topping.Usinga longhandledfork,grillmarshmallows 6 inches away from medium to hot heat until golden brown, turningoccasionally. Carefully place a marshmallow and a peanut butter cup on each fudgetoppedcookie;topwithremainingcookies.Serveimmediately.Isticktheminthemicrowaveforafewsecondsinsteadofgrillingthemarshmallows.

Friendsarequietangelsthatliftustoourfeetwhenourwingshavetroublerememberinghowtofly.OatmealRaisinCookies

½poundmargarineorbuttersoftened(2sticks)1cupfirmlypackedbrownsugar½cupgranulatedsugar2eggs1tsp.Vanilla1½cupsallpurposeflour1tsp.Bakingsoda1tsp.Cinnamon½tsp.Salt3cupsofquickoroldfashioned,uncookedoats.1cupraisins.(Isoakedmineinwaterfor½hourtoplumpthemup)

Heatovento350BeattogethermargarineandsugarsuntilcreamyAddeggsandvanilla,beatwellAddcombined flour, baking soda, cinnamonand salt;mixwellStir inoats and raisins;mixwellDropbyrounded tablespoonfulsontoungreasedcookiesheet.Bake10 to12minutesoruntilgoldenbrown.Cool1minuteoncookiesheet,removetowirerack.Makesabout4doz.

Tomakebarcookies,bake30to35minutesinungreased13x9inchmetalbakingpan.Ifrozemydoughin4rolls.Tearoffsaranwrapanddividedoughin4sections.Formintoarollabout10incheslongandrollinthesaranwrap.Itwilltakethemalittlelongertobake that the regular dough. You can slice the dough while frozen in ½ inch slices.Arrangeoncookiesheetandbakeasnormal.

Therearenonewsins:theoldonesjustgetmorepublicity.Thereareworsethingsthangettingacallforawrongnumberat4A.M.Homemadegranolabars

2cupsoldfashionedoatmeal

1cupofchoppedpecans1cupshreddedcoconut,looselypacked3tablespoonsunsaltedbutter2/3cupofhoney¼cuplightbrownsugar,lightlypacked1½tsp.purevanillaextract¼tspsalt½cupchoppedpitteddates½cupdriedcranberries½cupwhitechocolatechips.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter an 8 by 12 inch baking dish and line it withparchmentpaper.Toss the oatmeal, pecans and coconut together on a sheet pan and bake for 10 to 12minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Transfer the mixture to a largemixingbowlandstir.Placetheoventemperatureto300degrees.Placethebutter,honey,brownsugar,vanilla,andsaltinasmallsaucepanandbringtoaboilovermediumheat.Cookandstirforaminute,thenpouroverthetoastedoatmealmixture.Addthedatesandcranberries and stirwell. Pour themixture into the prepared pan.Wet your fingers andlightlypressthemixtureevenlyintothepan.Bakefor25to30minutes,untillightgoldenbrown. Cool for at least 2 to 3 hours before cutting into squares. Serve at roomtemperature.Ididnotcutmineintobars,butbrokeitup.Ifrozepartofit.

PeanutButterFingers

¾cupbutter,softened¾cupJifCreamypeanutbutter¾cupsugar¾cup,packedbrownsugar2eggs1½teaspoonsvanillaextract1½cupsallpurposeflour’1½cupsquickcookingoats¾tsp.Bakingsoda½tsp.Salt

Glaze;¾cupcreamyJifPeanutbutter1cupconfectioner’ssugar4to6tbsp.Milk1cupchoppedpeanuts

Directions:In a largemixing bowl, cream the butter, peanut butter and sugars.Add eggs, one at atime, beatingwell after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, oats, bakingsodaandsalt;addtocreamedmixtureandmixwell.Pourintoagreased15-in.x10-in.x1-in.bakingpan.

Bake at 325° for 18-20minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes outclean.Immediatelysprinklewithchocolatechips.Allowchipstosoftenforafewminutes;thenspreadoverbars.

For glaze, beat peanut butter and confectioners’ sugar. Add enough milk to achievespreading consistency. Carefully spread over warm bars; sprinkle with peanuts. Cool

beforecuttingintobars.Yield:5dozen.

GraduationCaps24miniaturepeanutbuttercups

1tube(6oz.)decoratingfrostingincolorofyourschool24aftereightthinmints(square)24milkchocolateM&M’sincolorofyourchoiceor24semisweetchocolatechips.

Removepaperlinersfrompeanutbuttercups;placeupsidedownonwaxedpaper.Placeasmallamountoffrostingoneachpeanutbuttercup;centeramintoneach.Usingfrosting,makealoopforeachcap’stassel.PlaceanM&Montopofeachloop.Yield2doz.

CrispyChocolateSquares

1pkg.10to12oz.Miniaturemarshmallows1cuppeanutbutter1cup6oz.semisweetchocolatechips½cupbutter,cubed2cupscrispricecereal1cupsaltedpeanuts

Frosting1cup6oz.semisweetchocolatechips¼cupbutter,cubed¼cupmilk2cupsconfectioners’sugar1tsp.Vanillaextract

In a large microwave safe bowl, combine the marshmallows, peanut butter, chocolatechipsandbutter.Coverandmicrowaveonhighfor1½minutes.Stiruntilwellblended.(Themixturewillbelumpy)addcerealandpeanuts;stiruntilwellcoated.Spreadintoagreased13x9in.pan.

For the frosting, combine chocolate chips, butter and milk in another microwave safebowl.Coverandmicrowaveonhighfor1minute.Addsugarandvanilla.Withanelectricmixer,beatfrostinguntilsmooth.Spreadoverthecerealmixture.Coverandrefrigeratefor2hoursoruntilfirm.Cutintosquares.Yieldabout4dozen.

NoBakecerealbars

1cuplightcornsyrup1cupsugar1¼cuppeanutbutter6cupsCheerioscereal1bag12ouncessemisweetchocolatechips(2cups)

Lightlybutter13by9inchpan.Ina4to5quartDutchoven,heatcornsyrupandsugartoboilingovermediumhighheatstirringconstantly.Cookuntilsugarisdissolved;removefrom heat. Add 1 cup of the peanut butter; stir until smooth. Add cereal; mix well.Immediatelypressinbutteredpan.

In 2 quart saucepan over low heat,melt chocolate chipswith remaining¼ cup peanutbutter,stirringconstantly.Spreadevenlyoverbars.Refrigerateabout30minutesorcoolcompletelyatroomtemperatureuntilchocolateisset.Forbars,cutinto9rowsby4rows.

LittleDebbieoatmealcrèmepies1cupmargarine3/4cupdarkbrownsugar1/2cupsugar1tablespoonmolasses1teaspoonvanilla2eggs11/2cupsall-purposeflour1/2teaspoonsalt1teaspoonbakingsoda1/8teaspooncinnamon11/2cups1-minuteQuakerOats

CrèmeFilling2teaspoonsveryhotwater1/4teaspoonsalt2cupsmarshmallowcrème(17-ouncejar)1/2cupshortening1/3cuppowderedsugar1/2teaspoonvanilla

Preheatovento350degrees.Inalargebowl,creamtogethermargarine,sugars,molasses,vanilla,andeggs.Inaseparatebowlcombinetheflour,salt,bakingsoda,andcinnamon.Combine the dry ingredientswith thewet ingredients.Mix in the oats.Drop dough bytablespoonfulsontoanungreasedbakingsheet.Bakefor10to12minutes,oruntilcookiesare juststartingtodarkenaroundtheedges.Theywillstillappearmoistinthecenter.Becarefulnottoovercook–whencooled,thecookiesshouldbesoftandchewy.

BakingforyourdogNoelNibbles

2tablespoonshoney3cupswhole-wheatflour1cupswhiteflour1tablespoonbakingpowder1tablespooncinnamon1tablespoonnutmeg23/4cupswater1/4cupunsweetenedchunkyapplesauce1egg,slightlybeaten1/2cupcoarselychoppedpeanuts

Preheat oven to 350 degree Fahrenheit. In a bowl, mix together honey, flour, bakingpowder,cinnamonandnutmeg.Addwater,applesauceandeggandstir,mixingwell.Addnuts.Spoonintoagreasedmuffintin,fillingeachcuptwo-thirdsfull.Bakefor30to35minutes until lightly browned. Cool on a rack and store in sealed container.Makes 16muffins.

FestiveHolidayCookies

1/2cupunsweetenedapplesauce1egg,slightlybeaten1/2cupchunkypeanutbutter1teaspoonvanilla11/4cupswater3cupswhole-wheatflour1cupwhiteflour1/2cupcornmeal1/2cupquick-cookingoats1/4cupchoppedpeanuts

Preheatovento350degreesFahrenheit.Inalargemixingbowl,combineapplesauce,egg,peanutbutter,vanilla andwater.Mixwell.Add flours, cornmeal,oats andpeanutsandmixwell to formdough.Turndoughontoa floured surface andkneaduntil thoroughlymixed together. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thick and cut out shapes. Place on greasedbaking sheet and bake for 45 minutes until lightly browned. Cool on rack. Makes 30cookies.

NewYearDelights

2tablespoonshoney23/4cupswater1/4cupunsweetenedchunkyapplesauce1/8teaspoonvanilla1egg,slightlybeaten3cupswhole-wheatflour1cupallpurposeflour1cupdriedapplechips1tablespoonbakingpowder1tablespooncinnamon1tablespoonnutmeg

Preheatovento350degreesFahrenheit.Inabowl,mixtogetherhoney,water,applesauce,vanilla andegg.Add flour, applechips,bakingpowder, cinnamonandnutmegandmixthoroughly,scrapingsidesandbottomofbowltobesurenodrymixtureisleft.Spoonintogreasedmuffinpans

So that each cup is three-quarters full and bake for approximately 1 hour until lightlybrowned.Coolandstoreinanairtightcontainer.Makes12muffins.

BaconBitesfordogs.

3cupswholewheatflour1/2cupmilk1egg1/4cupbacongrease(orvegetableoil)4slicesbacon(crumbled)1/2cupcoldwaterMixingredientstogetherthoroughly.Rolloutonaflouredsurfaceto1/2”-1/4”thickness.

Bakefor35-40minutesina325degreeoven.

BoneBonanza

1/2poundgroundbeef(uncooked)1/4cupchickenbroth1/3cupblackbeans,cooked(mashed)1/3cupcottagecheese1teaspoonsoysauce

Combine ground meat and chicken broth in a bowl. Add the black beans and cottagecheese.Addsoysauce.Mixalloftheingredientstogetherthoroughly.Moldthemixtureintoboneshapesandplaceonacookiesheet.Bakefor45minutesina375degreeoven.Letcool.

Tipstoimprovecookiebaking

Whenyou’regettingreadytostartmixingupabatchofcookies,thereareafewthingstoremember. First, start by reading the entire recipe. Make sure that you have all theingredientsfortherecipe.Alsomakesureyouunderstandthecookingtechniques.

Then,you’llwant topreheat theoven for10 to15minutesbeforebaking.Useanoventhermometertoverifytheaccuracyofyouroven.Ifthesetoventemperatureandtheoventhermometerdonotagree,adjusttheoventemperatureaccordingly.MixingItUpPrepare the ingredientsbeforeyoustartmixing.Let thebutter soften, toast thecoconut,chop the nuts, etc. Measure the ingredients correctly, using the proper technique andmeasuringutensils.Preparerecipeaccordingtodirections.Avoid overmixing the dough. If it’s handled toomuch, the cookieswill be tough. Forevenbaking,makecookiesthesamesizeandthickness.Useheavy-gaugedullaluminumbaking sheetswith one or two short sides for cookies. For brownies and bars, use dullaluminumbakingpansorglass.It’sbesttousethesizeofpancalledforintherecipe.When a recipe calls for greased baking sheets or pans, grease themwith shortening ornonstick cooking spray. For easy removal, line the bottom of the pan with parchmentpaperandgreasethepaper.Unless therecipestatesotherwise,placecookiedough2 to3 in.apartonacoolbakingsheet.Forbrowniesandbars,spreadthebatterevenlyinthepan,otherwisetheymaybakeunevenly.

StoringCookies&BarsCookiestendtoswitchtextureuponstoring—softcookiesgethardandcrispcookiesgetsoft.Herearesometipstokeepthesemorselsatoptimumfreshness.

Allow cookies and bars to cool completely before storing. Cut crisp bar cookieswhileslightlywarm.Allowicingoncookiestocompletelydrybeforestoring.Storesoftandcrispcookiesinseparateairtightcontainers.Ifstoredtogether,themoisturefromthesoftcookieswillsoftenthecrispcookiesandtheywilllosetheircrunch.Flavorscanalsoblendduringstorage,sodon’tstorestrong-flavoredcookieswithdelicate-flavoredcookies.Arrangecookiesinacontainerwithwaxedpaperbetweeneachlayer.Storecookiesina

cool, dry place. Cookies, frosted with a cream cheese frosting, should be covered andstoredintherefrigerator.Ifyourcrispcookiesbecamesoftduringstorage,crispthemupbyheatingina300°ovenfor5minutes.Cover a panof uncut brownies andbarswith foil—or put the pan in a large resealableplasticbag. Ifmadewithperishable ingredients, like thecreamcheese, storecovered intherefrigerator.Oncethebarsarecut,storetheminanairtightcontainer.Forlongerstorage,freezeforupto3months.Wrapunfrostedcookiesinplasticwrap,stackinanairtightcontainer,sealandfreeze.Freeze a pan of uncut bars in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Or, wrapindividualbars inplasticwrapandstackinanairtightcontainer.Thawwrappedcookiesandbarsatroomtemperaturebeforefrostingandserving.

ShippingCookiesHerearesomepointerstoensurethatcookiesarriveattheirdestinationasdeliciousandattractiveaswhenyoubakedthem.

First,selectcookiesthataresturdyandwilltravelwellsuchasbarsandbrownies,drop,slice and bake, and sandwich cookies. Cutouts and other thin cookies might break orcrumbleduring shipping.Cookies requiring refrigeration are apoor choice for shippingbecausethey’llspoil.Bakeandcompletelycoolcookiesjustbeforepackingandshipping,sotheyarriveasfreshaspossible.Tohelpthecookiesstayfreshandintact,wraptheminbundlesoftwo(fordropcookies,placetheirbottomstogether)withplasticwrap.Wrapbarsindividually.Packthecrispandsoft cookies in separate tins and pack strong-flavored cookies such as gingersnaps,separatefrommild-flavoredcookies.Line a tin or boxwith crumbledwaxed paper to cushion the cookies. Snugly pack thecookiestowithin1in.ofthetop.Usecrumpledwaxedpaperorbubblywraptofillinanygapsbetweencookiesandsideofcontainerandtocovertopsofcookies.Closeboxortin.Wrapcookiecontainerinacardboardboxthatisslightlylargerandcushionwithbubblewrap,crumpledpaperorshippingpeanuts.Sealboxandlabel“FragileandPerishable.”WhileBakingLeave at least 2 in. around the baking sheet or pan and the oven walls for good heatcirculation.Forbestresults,bakeonlyonesheetofcookiesatatime.Ifyouneedtobaketwosheetsatonce, switch thepositionof thebakingsheetshalfway through thebakingtime.Useakitchen timer toaccurately time the recipe.Unlessotherwisedirected, letcookiescoolfor1minuteonthebakingsheetbeforeremovingtoawirerack.Coolbakedgoodsonawireracktoallowairtocirculatearoundthefoodandcoolcompletelybeforestoring.Letbakingsheetscoolbeforeplacingthenextbatchofcookiedoughonit.Otherwise,theheatfromthebakingsheetwillsoftenthedoughandcauseittospread.

CookieFloss

Thewaytoslicecookiedoughfromtherefrigeratorisdentalfloss!Slideapiece(about1foot long) under the roll of dough, crisscross the ends above the dough and pull untilyou’ve cut through the dough. This alsoworkswellwith yeast cinnamon rolls that arerolledandsliced.

FreshEggs

Properlyrefrigerated,eggswillkeepabout3weeksafteryoubringthemhomewithoutasignificantreductioninquality.Youcaneasilycheckthefreshnessofanuncookedeggbyplacingitinaglassofcoldwater.Iftheeggisfresh,itwillremainonthebottomoftheglass.Iftheeggfloatstothesurfaceofthewater,itisnotfreshandshouldnotbeused.Iftheeggstandsuprightandbobsonthebottomoftheglass,itislessthanfreshbutstillallright to use. These eggs are goodwhen you need to prepare hardcooked eggs becausethey’llbeeasiertopeel.

Youcanalsofreezetheeggs.WhenIhavemadelemoncurdandhaveextraeggwhites,Iplacethewhites,individually,inicecubetrays.Oncefrozen,popthemintoafreezerbag.Thawcompletelywhenyouneedthem.Youcanalsofreezewholeeggs.Cracktheeggsintoabowl.Eggscannotbe frozen in the shell.Freeze theentireegg.Orbeat theeggsuntilmixedthoroughly,butdonotwhipinair.Pourthemixedeggsintoacontainerandsealtightlyoruseanicecubetrayforindividualeggs.Attachalabelwiththenumberofeggsanddate.Youcantellthedifferencebetweenaboiledandfresheggbylayingthemonatableandspinning.Theboiledeggwillspinandthefresheggwillnot.

Godgiveseverybirditsfood,buthedoesnotthrowitintothenestDesserts

Holidayverycherrygelatin2cupshotwater2x3oz.Unsweetenedcherrygelatin20oz.Crushedpineapplewithjuice1CancherrypiefillingDissolvegelatininwater.Addpineappleandpiefilling;stiruntilmixed.Pourinto9x13inchpanandchillovernight.Topping6oz.Sourcream8oz.CreamcheeseChoppednutsMixsourcreamandcreamcheeseuntilsmooth.Spreadontopofsetgelatin.Sprinklewithnuts.Whippedtoppingcanalsobeused.

StrawberryPearJell-O

6ozboxofsugarfreestrawberryjello2cupsofhotwater18oz.Creamcheese1largecanofpearsSparklinglemonaidContainerofcoolwhip

Dissolvejelloinhotwater.Softencreamcheeseandaddtojello.Beattomixthoroughly.Drainjuiceoffofpearsandaddsparklinglemonadetomake2cups.Addtojellomixture.Dicepearsandaddtojello.

Asthejellosets,stirseveraltimestomixinthepears.Justbeforeitsetsaddthecoolwhipandmixinthoroughly.Peachjellowithpeaches.

6oz.Boxofpeachjello2cupsofhotwater1large8oz.CreamcheeseLargecanofslicedpeaches

Dissolvejelloinhotwater.Addsoftenedcreamcheeseandwhipslightly.Drainpeachesandmeasurejuice.Addicecubestomake2cups.Addtothehotjello.Addthepeaches.Stirseveraltimesasitsetstokeepthemfromallbeingonthebottom.

I’velearnedthatlifeistough,butI’mtougher.

BlackberrycobblerVerygood1stickmargarinemelted1cupflour1cupsugar2tsp.Bakingpowder½tsp.Salt¾cupmilkMelt margarine, mix other ingredients and pour over melted margarine. Cover withsweetenedberries.Bake350degreesabout45minutes.

Quickpeachcobbler

Sameasaboveexceptuse1largecan29oz.Peachsliceswithsyrup.Pourpeacheswithsyrupoverthetopofbatter.Bakeat350for25minutes.Watchclosely,donotoverbake.Servehotwithvanillaicecream.

Bakedricepudding

1cupcookedrice2½cupsmilk3largeeggs,lightlybeaten¾cupsugar¾cupraisins1teaspoonvanillaextract¼teaspoonsalt½teaspoongroundcinnamon¼teaspoongroundnutmeg

Preheatovento325degrees.Lightlygreasea9inchglassbakingdish.Inalargebowl,stirtogetherfirst7ingredients.Spoonintopreparedbakingdish.Placebakingdishinalargepan; pour water into the pan to a depth of 1 inch. Bake for 1½ hours, or until lightlybrownedandset.Combinecinnamonandnutmeg;siftovertopofpudding.Coolslightlyandcutintosquarestoserve.

Pistachiopuddingparfaits1package8oz.Creamcheese,softened1cupconfectioner’ssugar1½cupswhippedtopping1package3.4oz.Instantpistachiopuddingmix8pecanshortbreadcookies,coarselycrushed

Inasmallbowl,beatcreamcheeseandconfectioner’ssugar.Foldinwhippedtopping;setaside.Preparepuddingaccordingtopackagedirections;setaside.

Spoon1tablespooncookiecrumbsintoeachofeightparfaitglasses.Topwithhalfofthepuddingandwhippedtoppingmixture.Repeatlayers.Topwithremainingcookiecrumbs.Chilluntilserving.Makes6servings.

BlackberryTapioca

2cupsblackberryjuice(youcoulduseanykindofjuice)1/3cupofsugar2½tablespoonsofMinutetapiocaDashofsalt1teaspoonlemonjuice8ouncesofcreamcheese,softened

Soaktapiocainjuiceforatleast5minutes.Bringblackberryjuice,sugar,tapiocaanddashofsalttoafullrollingboil.Stirconstantly.Remove fromheat.Add lemon juice.Cool slightly.Whip in softenedcreamcheeseandplaceintherefrigerator.WhenIpickedtheblackberriesImadejuicebyaddingsomewatertothewashedberries.ThenIranthemthroughastrainer togetout theseeds.I freezethe juice in2cupbagswhich is just enough tomakeabatchof this. It couldalsobeusedasa sauceover icecreamfilledcrepesorcheesecake.

RaspberrySorbetRecipe

Ingredients2cupssugar2cupswater2quartsraspberries,hulledandsliced1/4cupfreshlimejuice1/2cupwhitecornsyrupDirectionsBringthesugarand2cupswatertoaboilinamediumsaucepanovermedium-highheat.Reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer, without stirring, until the sugardissolves,about3minutes.Setasidetocoolcompletely.Place the raspberries and lime juice in a food processor and puree. Press the raspberrypureethroughastrainertoremovetheseeds.Whenthesugarsyruphascooledcompletely,combinewiththeraspberrypuree.Addthecornsyrupandstirwell.

Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer’sinstructions.Sorbetisparticularlysoftafterchurningbutfirmsupafterfreezing.

SANTACLAUSpancake

Makeyourpancake.Usecherrypiefillingforthenoseandthehat.Asliceofbananafortheeyesandhalfofaslicefor thenose.Achocolatechipfor thecenterof theeye.Usecoolwhipforthebeard,hair,andfur.Kidsloveit.

Santa Claus symbolizes the generosity and good will we feel during the month ofDecember.Nooneisperfectuntilyoufallinlovewiththem

Pies

There are four ingredients in a standard piecrust, flour, fat, liquid, and salt. Flour isnecessarytoformthestructureandbulkofthecrust,fattoaddflavorandtocreateaflakytexture, liquid tobind thedoughandkeep it pliable, and salt to enhance the flavor andbrownthecrust.

Whenmaking pie crust, chill the fat (butter,margarine, shortening, or lard) and liquids(milkorwater)beforeyoubegin.Chillingwillpreventthefatpiecesfromgettingcreamedintotheflour.Stirtheflour,salt,andsugarifyouareusingittogetherinalargebowl.Cutthechilledbutter,shortening,margarineorlardintothedrymixtureusingapastrycutter,twoknivesorpinchthefatintothemixturewithyourhands.

Pour in thechilled liquidone tablespoonata time,mixinggentlywithaforkaftereachaddition.Usingchilledliquidmakesforaflakiercrust.Blendjustuntilthedoughbeginsto hold together.Overworking the doughmakes it tough.You should be able to gentlypressthedoughintoaball.Handlethedoughaslittleaspossible;youdon’twanttocreamthelumpsoffat intotheflour,asacrustwithoutdiscretelumpsoffatwillbedensenotflaky.Lardmakestheflakiestandbesttastingcrust.

Split thedoughinto2equalamounts.Pateachintoaballflatteningthemslightly.Wraptheminplasticwrapandplaceintherefrigeratortorestfor30minutes.Chillingletsthefloursoakalloftheliquid,letsthedoughrelaxandbecomemoreelastic,andkeepsthefatindiscretepieceswhichwillgivethecrustalightertexturewhenitisbaked.

Dustaclean,drysurfacewithflour;removeandunwraponeofthediscsofdoughfromtherefrigerator.Flattenthedoughslightlywithyourhandsanddustthedoughlightlywithflourbeforerollingthedoughoutwitharollingpin.Startrollingatthecenterofthedoughandworkoutwards.Youcanalso roll thedoughoutbetweensheetsofwaxedpaper foreasiercleanup.Workingquickly,rollthedoughintoacircle¼inchthickorsmaller.Isetmypieplateonthe dough and look down. The dough should extend out larger than the pie plate by acoupleofinches.Gentlyfoldthedoughinhalfandthenintohalfagain.Carefullypickitupandplaceitintothepieplatesothecenterpointofdoughisinthecenterofthepan.Carefullyunfoldthedough.Itshouldbecenteredinthepan.Withoutstretchingthedough,pressitfirmlyintothepanandtrimanyexcessdoughfromtheedge.Youcanjustpressyourhandsagainstthetopedgeofthepieplateoruseaknifetocutit.Ifthedoughcracksalittleduringtheprocess,pressitbacktogetherwithyourfingers,orpatchthecrackswithabitofdoughfromtheouteredges.

Pour the filling into the pie shell just before baking to keep the bottom crust frombecomingsoggy.Oncethepieiffilledwiththefilling,unwrapthesecondballandrollitout. Wet the edges of the bottom crust and place the top on the pie. Press the edgestogetherusingtherimofthepieplateasaguide;createaflutededgewithyourfingersorthebackofaspoon.Cutventswithasharpknifeoruseaforktoprickadecorativepatternonthetopcrust.Brushthesurfacewitheggwashormilkifdesired.Isprinklesugaronmine.Bakeasdirected.Adashoflemonjuicewillbringouttheflavorinanapplepieandapplejuiceisatastysweetener.Whenmakingacustardorpumpkinpie,stirthemixtureuntilit’swellcombined.Beatingituntilfrothywillcreatebubblesinthebakedpie.

Coolpiesonawirerackso theaircancirculateall thewayaroundthemandspeed the

process.Wait to sliceapieuntil it is completelycooled.Tocut creampies cleanly,dipyourknifeinhotwaterfirst,andthenwipeitdry.Fruitpieswrappedinfoilorplasticwrapcanbestoredatroomtemperatureforadaybeforerefrigerating.Storepumpkinpieinthefridgefornomorethan3days.Fruitpiescanbefrozeneitherbakedorunbaked.Pumpkinpiescanbefrozenafterbaking.Custardanddreampiesdonotfreezewell.Thawfrozenprebakedpiesintherefrigeratorandeat.Orheatthethawedpieat350for15minutesforanovenfreshtaste.Unbakedfrozenfruitpiescangodirectlyfromthefreezertotheoven.Unwrapthepie,cutslitsinthetopcrustandbakeat425for15minutes,thenat375for30to45minutesoruntilthecenterisbubbly.

Piecrust2cupsflour2/3cupshortening1tsp.Salt6to7tbspWater.Makeasdirectedaboveforatwocrust9inchpie.Thereasonthatyoupokeholesinpiecrustistolettheheatescapeandsoitwillnotpuffup.

BananaCrepes

1cupall-purposeflour1/4cupconfectioners’sugar2eggs1cupmilk3tablespoonsbutter,melted1teaspoonvanillaextract1/4teaspoonsalt

Filling

1/4cupbutter1/4cuppackedbrownsugar1/4teaspoongroundcinnamon1/4teaspoongroundnutmeg1/4cuphalf-and-halfcream6bananas,halvedlengthwise11/2cupswhippedheavycream1pinchgroundcinnamon

Crepes:Siftflourandpowderedsugarintoamixingbowl.Addeggs,milk,butter,vanilla,andsalt;beatuntilsmooth.Heatalightlygreasedsixinchskillet.Addabout3tablespoonsbatter.Tiltskilletsothatbatterspreadstoalmostcoverthebottomofskillet.Cookuntillightly browned; turn and brown the other side. Repeat process with remaining batter,settingasideeachnewcrepeandgreasingtheskilletasneeded.

Filling:Meltbutterinalargeskillet.Stirinbrownsugar,cinnamon,andnutmeg.Stirincreamandcookuntilslightlythickened.Addhalfthebananasatatimetoskillet;cookfor2to3minutes,spooningsauceoverthem.Removefromheat.

Rollacrepearoundeachbananahalfandplaceonservingplatter.Spoonsauceoverthecrepes.Topwithwhippedcreamandapinchofcinnamon.

Itisnottheyearsinyourlife,butthelifeinyouryears.ChristmasFruitPieCrust3cupsallpurposeflour2tsp.Sugar1cupshortening5T.fruitjuice,frompineappleororangesinfilling.

Filling:15oz.Canpineappletidbits,juicereserved15oz.Canmandarinoranges,juicereserved20oz.Cancherrypiefilling14oz.Canwholeberrycranberrysauce½cupsugar4T.cookingtapioca½tsp.Cinnamon1tsp.Lemonjuice2tsp.Margarine½cuppowderedsugar1T.lemonjuicePreheatovento400degrees.F.Forthecrust,placeflourandsugarinbowl,cutinshortening.Addfruitjuice.Mixuntildoughformsaball.Addmorejuiceifnecessary.Divideballinto2piecesandrollout.Forthefilling,combinepineapple,oranges,cherrypiefilling,cranberrysauce,sugar,andtapioca, cinnamon and lemon juice. Line a 9 inch deep dish pie platewith half of therolledoutpastry.Addfilling,dotwithmargarineandtopwithotherhalfofpastry.Makeseveralslits in topcrust.Bake50to60minutesoruntilcrust isgoldenbrown.Removefromoven.Mixtogetherthepowderedsugarandlemonandbrushglazeonthepie.

Perfectpiecrust1cupflour1½tsp.Salt1tsp.Bakingpowder¼lblards(8tbsp.)8tbsp.Coldunsaltedbutter½to2/3cupcoldwater

Pulsefirst5ingredientsuntilcrumbly.Slowlyaddcoldwateruntilitformsaball.Afterrollingoutandputtingontopoframekinfilledwithsteworchickenpiefillingbrushwith1Tbspwaterorheavycreammixedwith1eggbeaten.Bakeuntilgoldenbrownat400.

Raspberrypiedelight

1box3ozvanilla-cookandservepudding1box3oz.Raspberryjello1cupofwaterMix together and bring to a boil until clear and thick. I use sugar free of both. Usewhatever flavor jello tomatch the fruit that you have. Let cool slightly and pour over

preparedfruit.Makesadeliciousglaze.Creamcheesefilling:18oz.Creamcheesesoftened½cupofsugar2tbsp.Lemonjuice

Mix together and place in the bottom of a baked pie shell. Top with the fruit glaze.Refrigerateuntilcool.Keepintherefrigerator.

A personwithout a sense of humor is like a wagonwithout springs. It isjoltedbyeverypebble.Grapepie

6cupsgrapes,prepared2cupsplendaDashofsalt6Tbsp.Flour1tbsp.Tapioca1tbsp.Lemonjuice

Slipskinsfromgrapes.Putpulpandseedsonthestoveandheatuntilsoft.Runthroughcolander to separate seeds.Add skins to pulp.Add rest of the ingredients and put intopreparedpiecrusthalfof themixture.Freezetherestof thefillingforanotherpie.Thisrecipewillmake2pies.Topwithcrust, sealedgesandcut slits in the top.Bakeat400degreesfor40to50minutesoruntilgolden.Iliketosprinklealittlesugaronthetopofpiesbeforebaking.

CaramelApplePieCrust:2cupsallpurposeflour1tsp.Salt2/3cupcoldlard2tsp.SugarAbout6to8tablespoonsofverycoldwaterWhisktheflourwiththesaltandsugarinalargebowl.Cutthelardintotheflourmixture.Cutuntilthemixturewithtwoknivesorapastryblenderuntilitresemblescoursemealwithsomelargerchunksoffatthroughout.

Sprinkleabout2tablespoonsofwateratatimeuntilthemixturecomestogetherinshaggychunks.Turnthedoughontoalightlyflouredboardandusetheheelofyourhandtohelpgather thedough together.Press intoa largedisk.Wrap tightlyandrefrigerateuntilyougetthefillingready.

Applefilling.

2tablespoonsunsaltedbutter3tablespoonslightbrownsugar½cupwhitesugarDashofsalt3tablespoonsflour1tablespooncinnamon½teaspoongroundginger

1tablespoonlemonjuice3grannysmithapplesdiced3JonathanapplesdicedMelt the butter in a large sauté pan overmedium heat. Add the sugars, salt, and flourstirringuntil it thickensslightly.Addtheapples,cinnamon,ginger,and lemonjuiceandcook stirringoccasionally until the apples are cooked through and slightly caramelized.Letcool.

Rolldoughtofitpieplate,fillwiththeapplefillingandcoverwitha topcrust.Besureanddampentheedgeofcrustbeforeputtingonthetopcrust.Sealedgesgoodandsprinklecinnamonsugaronthetop.

Bakeat400degreesfor20min.Turnovendownto350andcontinuetobakeforanother20min.oruntilthecrustturnsgolden.Tomakefriedapplepies:Assembly1quartpeanutorcanolaoilChilleddoughcirclesApplefilling1cupsugarmixedwith2tablespoonsgroundcinnamon.Place1 of the dough circles on a flat surface andplace a few tablespoonsof the applefillingontoonehalfofeachcircleofdough.Brushalittlecoldwateraroundtheedgeofthedoughandfolditinhalfsotheothersidecomesdownovertheapplefilling.Sealthepieandmakeadecorativeedgebypressingtheedgesofthedoughtogetherwiththebackof a fork. Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to chill for 30minutes.

Heattheoilinalargesaucepanuntilitreaches360degrees.Frythepies2atatimeuntilgoldenbrown,about2minutes.Removewithaslottedspoontoabakingsheetlinedwithpapertowels.Letdrainfor10secondsthentosswiththecinnamonsugar.

ApplePearPiePastryfordoublecrustpie9inches3mediumripepears,peeledandthinlysliced3mediumtartapples,peeledandthinlysliced1cupsugar (Saveasideone tsp;Tosprinkleon topofpiebeforebaking)1 tsp.Lemonjuice1tsp.Groundcinnamon¼tsp.Groundnutmeg3tbsp.Butterormargarine

Line a 9 inch pie plate with bottom crust. In a large bowl, combine the pears, apples,sugar,lemonjuice,cinnamonandnutmeg.Transfermixturetocrust;dotwithbutter.Rolloutremainingcrusttofitthetopofpie.Dampentheedgesofthecrustinthepantomakethem have a better seal. Cut slits in the top crust to let out the steam as it bakes, foldseveraltimestomakeiteasiertoputontopofthepie.Pressdowntosealtheedgesandgiveitatightseal.Bakeat350degreesforanhourtohourand10minutesuntilgoldenbrown.Coolonawirerack.Delicious

AppleCheesecakeTortillasSimilartoadessertatAppleby’s1canofapplepiefilling18oz.Creamcheese,softened1Tbsp.Lemonjuice¼cupsugar

TortillaMixcreamcheese,sugarandlemonjuice.Spreadontortillaandtopwithpiefilling.Fryuntil lightly brown and crispy, turning to get all sides. Servewarmwith ice cream andwarmcaramelsauce.

ChocolateQuesadillas

CocoaChiliPowder2tsp.Unsweetenedcocoapowder½tsp.Chilipowder¼tsp.Groundcinnamon¼tsp.CayennepepperPinchsaltAddalltheingredientsinasmallbowlandcombinewell.Setaside.

Quesadillas4flourtortillas-8inchindiameter2tbsp.Unsaltedbutteratroomtemperature4oz.Whitechocolatebrokeninto1inchsquares4oz.Darkchocolatebrokeninto1inchsquares3tsp.Cocoachilipowder4scoopsvanillaicecream2tbsp.Darkchocolatesauce,forgarnish

Heatalargenonstickskilletoracastirongriddleovermediumhighheat.Spread1sideofeachtortillawithbutter.Lay2tortillasinthepanbutteredsidedown,andtopeachwithhalfofthechocolateinarandomorderofvarieties.Sprinkleeachwith1teaspooncocoachilipowderandcoverwith the remaining tortillas,buttered sideup.Letcookuntil thechocolatestartstomeltinabout3to4minutes.Carefullyflipoverandcooktheothersideuntilevenlybrownedanadditional3to4minutes.Removefromheattoacuttingboard,letrestfor3to4minutesthencuteachinto4quarters.Toplate,put1scoopoficecreaminto each serving dish, add 2 pieces of quesadilla and drizzle with the dark chocolatesauce.Dust eachdish evenlywith remaining teaspoonof the cocoachili powder.Serveimmediately.

CoconutPineapplepops

1-1/2cupscold2%milk(8ounces)unsweetenedcrushedpineapple(6ounces)unsweetenedpineapplejuice

1teaspooncoconutextract1package(3.4ounces)instantvanillapuddingmix14plasticcupsorPopsiclemolds(3ounceseach)

14Popsiclesticks•In a blender, combine themilk, pineapple, pineapple juice and CC extract; cover andprocessuntilsmooth.Pourintoabowl;whiskinPudding-mixfor2minutes.Pour1/4cupintoeachcupormold;insertPopsiclesticks.Freezeuntilfirm.Yield:14servings.

Strawberrymallowpops8ozs.Creamcheese,softened¼cuphoney1 pkg. 16 oz. Frozen sweetened sliced strawberries, thawed 3 cups miniaturemarshmallows1cupheavywhippingcream,whippedInasmallbowl,beatcreamcheeseandhoneyuntilsmooth.Addstrawberrieswithjuice;beatuntilblended.Foldinmarshmallowsandwhippedcream.Pour ¼ cupfuls into 24 plastic molds or 3 oz. Paper cups; top with holders or insertPopsiclesticksintocups.Freezeuntilfirm.Makes2dozens

HomemadeFudgePops

¼cupbutter,cubed½cupallpurposeflour4cupsmilk11/3cupspackedbrownsugar1/3cupbakingcocoa1tsp.Salt2tsp.Vanillaextract20Popsiclemoldsordisposableplasticcups3oz.EachandPopsiclesticks.

Ina large saucepan,meltbutterovermediumheat.Stir in flouruntil smooth;graduallyaddmilk. Stir in the brown sugar, cocoa and salt. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2minutes or until thickened.Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla.Cool for 20minutes,stirringseveraltimes.Pour¼cupfulsintoPopsiclemoldsorplasticcups;topmoldswithholdersorinsertPopsiclesticksintocups.Freezeuntilfirm.Makes20.

Orangecreampops

1pkg.3oz.Orangejello1cupboilingwater1cup8oz.Vanillayogurt½cup2%milk½tsp.Vanillaextract10plasticcupsorPopsiclemolds10Popsiclesticks

Ina largebowl,dissolvegelatin inboilingwater.Cool to room temperature.Stir in theyogurt,milkandvanilla.Pour¼cupintoeachcupormold;insertPopsiclesticks.Freezeuntilfirm.Makes10

OrangeIceCreamPops1cupcoldmilk2cupsvanillaicecream6oz.Frozenorangejuiceconcentrate,partiallythawed12Popsiclemoldsordisposableplasticcups3oz.EachPopsiclesticks.Inablender,combinethemilk,icecreamandorangejuiceconcentrate;coverandprocessuntilsmooth.

Pour 1/4 cupfuls into Popsiclemolds or plastic cups; topmolds with holders or insertPopsiclesticksintocups.Freezeuntilfirm.Yield:1dozen.Homemadeprisonicecream1small8oz.Styrofoamcup.Filltothebottomofthetopring,(anykindofyourfavoritedrink)orange,peach,lemon,grape,cocoa,cherry,strawberry.Usethesamecupandfill¾fullofnondairycreamer.Addthistoyourfavoritedrinkmix.Nextadd2or3sugartwinstohelpsweetenituporyoucandoitplain.Addmilk,2%,whole,yourchoiceShakeupormixwell.Puticeinbottomofbucket,2or3inchesdeep.Saltdownice.Nicemediumlayerofsalt,dependsoncontainerifyoulayjarsoverorstandthemup,besurelidsareontight.Next with jars in bucket, container put more ice over jars and then salt down again,mediumlayerofsalt.Coverandaddcoverstohelpkeepcold.

Checkoninabout3hours,dumpoffanywater;addmoreiceandsomemoresalttohelpkeepitcold.Dothis2or3timesthroughoutaperiodof6to8hoursandyoushouldhavesomegoodoldJailhouseicecream.

SnowIceCream8cupscleansnow1cupsweetenedcondensedmilkHavetoworkquicklytokeepthesnowfrommelting.Addthemilkandstirtocombine.Youmayhavetoaddalittlemoremilktomakeitcreamy.SnowIceCream2

8cupsofcleansnowSugartotaste1tsp.VanillaEnoughevaporatedmilktomakeitsticktogether.Stirquicklytocombine.

IusedtohaveahandleonlifeandthenIbecameaparent.TheeasiestwayformetogrowasapersonistosurroundmyselfwithpeoplesmarterthanIam.

VanillaIcecreamwithapeanutbuttersauce.2pintsgoodqualityvanillaicecream1cupchunkypeanutbutter¼to1/3cupmilkorhalfandhalf,eyeballit¼cuphoney,eyeballit¼tsp.cinnamonPlaceicecreamonthecountertoptogetsoftPlacepeanutbutter,milkorhalf-and-halfandthehoneyinasmallskilletandwarmoverlowheat.Stiruntilsmoothand season the saucewith a little cinnamon. Scoop ice cream into dishes and topwithpeanutbuttersauce

Layeredcranberrydessert

2packages3oz.Eachcranberrygelatin1½cupsboilingwater1Cancranberrysauce1½cupscoldwater

1pkg.8oz.Creamcheese,softened¼cupsugar1carton16oz.Frozenwhippedtopping

Ina largebowl,dissolvegelatin inboilingwater.Stir incranberrysauceandcoldwateruntilblended.Puthalfofitinabowlandplaceintherefrigeratoruntilset.Inasmallbowl,beatcreamcheeseandremainingsugaruntilsmooth.Foldinhalfofthewhippedtopping.Spreadoverthelayerofsetjellointhebowl.(Iuseaclearrectangulardish. It looksreallypretty in layersof redandwhite.)Topwith therestof the jelloandplace back into the refrigerator to set.Before serving, topwith the rest of thewhippedtopping.

Jim’sFavoriteJell-O

2cupsboilingwater23oz.Cherryjello1canofcrushedpineapplesamesizeaspiefilling1canofblueberrypiefilling.SmallcontainerofcoolwhipDissolvejelloinboilingwater.Addcanofcrushedpineapplewithjuice.Stirinblueberrypiefillingandmixwell.Letsetandtopwithcoolwhip.

Blueberriesenhancetheflavorofanyfruitthattheyareaddedto.Thiswasthebestdessertandeasytomake.May your troubles be less, your blessings be more, And nothing but happiness comesthroughyourdoor.

BananaBasicsLook for plump bananas that are evenly yellow-colored.Green bananas are under-ripe,whilea fleckingofbrownflecks indicates ripeness. Ifbananasare toogreen,place inapaperbaguntilripe.Addinganappletothebagwillspeedtheprocess.Storeripebananasatroomtemperature.Topreventbruises,abananahookorhangerisagreatinexpensiveinvestment.Forlongerstorage,youcanplaceripebananasinatightlysealedplasticbagand refrigerate.The peelwill become brown but the fleshwill remain unchanged.Onepoundofbananasequalsabout3mediumor1-1/3cupsmashed.

PreventBananasfromBrowningTo keep bananas in a fruit salad from turning brown, squeeze the juice of an orange,lemonor lime intoabowland then slice thebanana right into it.Stirgently tocoat allsides,andremovethebananasliceswithaslottedspoonjustbeforeaddingtoyoursalad.

Thewaytopeelabananaistopinchthebottomend,notthestemendandpulldown,itwillpeelmucheasier.Nooneeversaysit’sonlyagamewhentheirteamiswinning.JelloSauce

1envelopeUnflavoredgelatin¼cupcoldwaterSoakuntilsoftened13oz.Pkg.Strawberryjello

1qt.Boilingwater

Addtosoftenedgelatinandstiruntildissolved.Addafewdropsredcolorand3or4icecubes.Addstirringtocool1qt.Applesauce¼cupredcinnamoncandies

Stirin,chilluntilset.Ifusingcandies,dissolveinboilingwaterwithgelatin.

I’vereachedtheagewherethehappyhourisanap.Becarefulreading the fineprint, there’snowayyou’regoing to like it.CranberryandCherryJello

2boxesofCherryjello2cupsboilingwater1canofCranberrysauce(Iusedcranberryraspberry)1cupcrushedice1canofcherrypiefilling

Dissolvejelloinboilingwater.Addcanofcranberrysauceandstir todissolve.Iusedasmall eggbeater to help break it up.Add cupof crushed ice.Mix in canof cherry piefillingandputintotherefrigeratortoset.

Topping18ozofcreamcheese,softened1cupofsourcreamMixtogether,addsugartotasteandvanillaabout½tsp.Putonsetjello.

BlueberryCreamCheeseMiniPies

6tbsp.Allpurposeflour¼cupsugar1tbsp.Gratedlemonpeel¼cupcoldbutterormargarineBlueberryfilling¾cupsugar3tablespoonscornstarchorthermoflothickening1cupwater4cupsfreshorfrozenblueberries1tsp.Gratedlemonpeel1tbsp.freshlemonjuice(Iusedpiefillinginsteadoftheabove)Creamcheesefilling

8oz.Creamcheese,softened¼cupsugar1eggCrust1can,16.3grand’sflakylayersrefrigeratedbiscuitsHeatovento350.Inmediumbowl,mixflour,¼cupsugarand1tbsp.Lemonpeel.Cutinbutter,usingpastryblenderorpulling2knivesthroughingredientsinoppositedirections,

untilmixturelookslikecoarsecrumbs.Setaside.

In2qt.Saucepan,mix¾cupsugarandthecornstarch.Graduallystirinwater.Cookandstir over medium heat about 10 minutes or until thickened. Add 1 ½ cups of theblueberries.Reduceheattolow.Cover;cookabout10minutesoruntilmixturereturnstoaboil.Stirin1tsp.Lemonpeeland1tbsp.Lemonjuice.Addremainingblueberries;stirgently.Setaside.Inasmallbowl,beatsoftenedcreamcheesefillingingredientsuntilsmooth.Setaside.

Separatedoughinto88biscuits.Spliteachbiscuitinhalftomake16rounds.Withflouredfingers,flattereachtoform4inchround.Press1biscuitroundintoeachof16ungreasedregularsizemuffincups.Spoon1tbsp.Creamcheesefillingand2tbsp.Blueberryfillingintoeachbiscuit linedcup.Sprinkleeachwithabout1tbsp.Streusel(cupswillbefull).Bake18to22minutesoruntilgoldenbrown.Cool5minutes.Removefrommuffincupstocoolingrack.Cool10minutesbeforeserving.

Cherryalmondcobbler

1can(21ounces)cherrypiefilling1can(15ounces)pitteddarksweetcherries,drained1tsp.PureAlmondExtractdivided½tsp.Purevanillaextract1cupallpurposebakingmixsuchasBisquick2tbsp.Sugar½tsp.Groundcinnamon1tbsp.Meltedbutter¼cupmilk½cupslicedalmondsdividedPreheatovento400degrees.Combinecherrypiefilling,darksweetcherries,and½tsp.Almondextractandvanilla.Spread inungreased8 inchsquarebakingpanandplace inovenfor15minutes.Stir together bakingmix, sugar, cinnamon,melted butter,milk and¼ cup almonds andremaining ½ tsp. Almond extract until soft dough forms. After 15 minute baking iscomplete,removepanwithcherryfillingfromovenandtopwith8heapingtablespoonsfullofdough.Sprinklewithremaining¼cupalmonds.Returntooven;bake18to20minutesoruntiltoppingislightbrown.Servewithvanillaicecream,ifdesired.Delicious.Ididnotusethenutsinit.

Giantapplecrisp

8cupsfirmtartapples,sliced4tbsp.Sugar2tbsp.Lemonjuice2/3cupsiftedallpurposeflour2cupsuncookedoats1cupbrownsugar1tsp.Salt2tsp.Groundcinnamon2/3cupbutter,melted

Preheatovento375degreesIna9by12inchglassbakingdish,combineapples,sugar,andlemonjuice.Setaside.Inanother bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, salt and cinnamon. Toss with meltedbutteruntilmixtureresemblescoarsecrumbles.Topappleswithoatmixture.Bakefor30to35minutes,oruntilapplesaretender.Servewarmtoppedwithheavycream,orcooltoroomtemperatureandservewithicecream,ifdesired.

Friedapples

6applespeeledandslicedDashsalt2to3tbsp.Butter¼cupbrownsugarMelt butter in a skillet and add apples, salt andbrown sugar.Cookuntil the apples aretender.

TwolayercranberrycreamcheesemoldByEthelBrehm3ouncepkg.Creamcheese,softened1cupheavycream16largemarshmallows,quartered1poundfreshorfrozencranberries1mediumapple,coredandquartered1/2cupdrainedcrushedpineapple.1cupsugar2x3oz.Pkgs.Cherryflavorgelatin2cupboilingwater½cupchoppedwalnutsGreenandredcandiedormaraschinocherriesWhipcreamcheeseinbowluntilcreamy.Atlowspeed,graduallyaddheavycream.Donotwhip.Stirinmarshmallows.Cover,chillovernighttosoftenmarshmallows.Grind together cranberries andapple in foodgrinderusingcoarseblade.Add sugar; setasideHeattoboilingandboiloneminute.Dissolvegelatininboilingwater.Chilluntilthickandsyrupy.Foldincranberrymixtureandwalnuts.Pourinto12by8inchglassbakingdish..(2qt)cover,chilluntilset.Whipchilledmarshmallowtoppingathighspeedwithelectricmixer until thick and creamy. Spread over gelatin. Cut 8 red cherries in half. Place 16cherry halves on top of cream layer evenly spaced. Cut green cherries in small piecesresembling stems and leaves. Arrange next to cherry halves. Chill until serving time.Makes16servings.

FruitSalad

1cupblueberries1mangodiced1pintsweetcherriesJuiceoflimeMixalltogetherandserve.Delicious.

QuickToppingforJell-O13½oz.Sugarfreeinstantlemonpudding1cupmilk

Mixaccordingtopkg.Directions.Chill5min.Add1cupcoolwhip.Foldin.Spreadovertopofsalad.Sprinklegratedcheeseorchoppednutsovertop.

ChristmasCream

2firmbananas,peeledandsliced3kiwislicedor2cupsofslicedseedlessgreengrapes2cups(16ounces)ofsourcream1pintofsweetdarkcherries1cupcoarselychoppedwalnuts(optional)1/2cupsugarJuiceof1/2lime

Mixalltogether.Canbefrozen.MaindishesCheeseburgerCalzones

1poundhamburger½Oniondiced½packagetacomixShreddedcheddarcheese1canrefrigeratedcrescentdinnerrollsorseamlessdoughsheet

Heat oven to 375. cook beef and onion, stirring occasionally until beef is thoroughlycooked.Drainifnecessary.Unrolldough,separateinto4rectangles.Placeonungreasedcookiesheet.Presseachinto7x4inchrectangle,firmlypressingperforationstoseal.Ifusingdoughsheet,unrolldoughandcutinto4rectangles.

Spoonabout1/3cupbeefmixtureontooneendofeachrectangle.Topeachwithcheese.Fold dough over filling; press edgeswith fork to seal. Bake 15 to 20minutes or untilgoldenbrown.Immediatelyremovefromcookiesheet.Servewarm.

Servewithsourcreamandsalsaifdesired.CrabcrescentCalzone

1tube,8oz.Refrigeratedcrescentrolls2packages,3oz.Eachcreamcheese,softened1/3cupchoppedonionDashofsalt½to1tsp.sugar½tsp.Groundredpepper1cupchoppedimitationcrabmeator1can6oz.Crabmeat,drained,flakedandcartilageremovedOnagreasedbakingsheet,unrollcrescentdoughintoonelongrectangle;sealseamsandperforations. In a smallbowl,beat the creamcheese,onion, salt, sugar, and redpepper.Spreadmixture lengthwise over half of the dough towithin½ inch of edges.Topwithcrab.

Fold dough over filling; pinch seam to seal.Brush the topwith egg yolk.Bake at 375degrees for18 to22minutesoruntil goldenbrown.Cut into slices.One loafyields12slices.

Spaghettisaucecrescentcalzone

Leavethecrescentrollsinrectangles.Spreadspaghetti sauceonhalfof rolls.Coverwithdicedcookedonion.Youcouldalsosauté somemushroomswith theonion.Dice somepepperoniandadd to theonion longenoughtogethot.Putthisontopofthespaghettisauce.Putshreddedcheeseontopandfoldoverthedoughtoformacoverforthefilling.Presstheedgestogether.SpraywithIcan’tbelieveitsnotbutterandsprinkleParmesancheeseontop.Bakeat350untilgoldenbrown.Takesabout18minutes.

Hamandcheesecasserole1cupofhamchopped4oz.Noodles1cupfrozenpeas1cancreamofchickensoup¼cupmilk2cupscheeseforthetop.Iusedcheddar,butanythingwouldbegood.Cookthenoodlesuntildone.Whiletheyarecooking,combinetheotheringredientsinagreasedcasseroledishexceptforthecheese.Drainthenoodlesandcombinewiththehammixture.Topwiththecheeseandputintotheovenabout25minutesuntilheatedthroughandthecheeseismelted.Bakeat350degrees.

Cheesysausagecasserole8oz.Ofhashbrowns½tubeofbulksausage.(1/2pound)1onion2tbsp.Flour2cupmilk1x1/2inchsectionofVelveetatopping1½cupcrushedcornflakesMeltedbutter.

Puthashbrownsinbottomofa2qt.Casserole.Putinovenat400degreesfor15minutestopartiallycook.Meanwhile,brownbulksausagewithdicedonion.Whenallofthepinkhasdisappeared,sprinkle2 tbsp.Flourandstir tomix.Add2cupmilkstirringuntil itpartially thickens.AddVelveeta.Stirtomelt.Pouroverpotatoesandputbackinoven.Bake20min.

Mixmeltedbutterandcornflakesandputontopofcasserolethelast5minutes.Delicious

Mapleglazedporkchops½tsp.Salt½tsp.Paprika1/4tsp.Groundcumin¼tsp.Groundcinnamon¼tsp.Pepper

2 one in pork loin chops 1 tbsp.Maple syrup 1 ½ tsp. Butter, melted 1 ½ tsp. Dijonmustard

Combine the first five ingredients; rub over pork chops. Place in a greased 11 by 7 in.bakingdish.Bake;uncoveredat425for20minutes.Combinetheremainingingredients;pouroverchops.Bake5min.longeroruntilmeatjuicesrunclear.

I took the last three ingredientsandmixed theminapoundof freshgroundpork;Friedtheminpatties.Theyweredelicious.

When using a cutting board to slice your cooked meat, rub it with oil to keep it fromdrawingjuicefromthemeat.Youcanalsorubtheoilwithgarlicforaddedflavor.

FivecheeseLasagna

2poundsgroundbeef1jar,26ouncesspaghettisauce1can,rotelsmalldicedtomatoeswithchilies1tsp.Mincedgarlic1tsp.Onionpowder2eggs,beaten18ounceofcreamcheesesoftened1cartonsourcream1½cupscottagecheese½cupgratedParmesancheese4cups,16ouncesshreddedmozzarellacheese2cupsofshreddedMontereyjackcheeseUncookedlasagnanoodlesInalargeskillet,cookbeefovermediumheatuntilnolongerpink;drain.Stirinspaghettisauce, minced garlic, onion powder, and diced tomatoes and chilies. In a large bowl,combinetheeggs,sourcream,cottagecheese,creamcheeseandParmesancheese.Spread1½cupssaucemixture inagreased13x9 inchbakingdish.Topwith threeorfournoodles.Spread1½cupssaucetoedgesofnoodles.Sprinklewith2cupsmozzarellacheese. Topwith sour creammixture, shreddedMonterey jack cheese, another layer ofnoodles,remainingsauceandmozzarellacheese.Coverandbakeat350for50minutes.Uncover,bake10minuteslongeroruntilcheeseismelted. Let stand for 15 minutes before cutting. Serves 12. I freeze the leftovers foranothermeal.Bestlasagnaweeverate.Thisisevenbetterheatedup.

Crock-potsweetandsourbeefstew1½lbs.Beefstewmeatcutin1inchcubes2T.cookingoil½cupwater1t.salt1cupchoppedcarrots1cupslicedonion1can,8oz.Tomatosauce¼cupbrownsugar¼cupvinegar1T.Worcestershiresauce

1T.cornstarchhotcookednoodlesorrice

Brownmeatinoil,addwaterandsalt.Coverandcookuntiltender.Wecookedthemeatforabout10minutes.Putmeatinslowcooker.Addcarrots,onion,tomatosauce,brownsugar,vinegarandWorcestershiresauceandcookonlowallday.Beforeserving,combinecornstarchwith¼cupcoldwater.Addtobeefmixture.Cookuntilthickened.Serveovernoodlesorrice.

CreamyMacaroniandCheese2cupsuncookedelbowmacaroni½cupbutter,cubed½cupallpurposeflour1½cupsmilk1cupsourcream8oz.Processcheesecubed(Velveeta)½teaspoonsalt½teaspoongroundpepper½teaspoongroundmustard2cupsshreddedcheddarcheese

Cookmacaroni according to package directions.Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, meltbutter.Stirinflouruntilsmooth.Graduallyaddmilk.Bringtoaboil;cookandstirfor2minutesoruntilthickened

Reduceheat;stirinthesourcream,processcheese,salt,mustard,andpepperuntilsmoothandcheeseismelted.Drainmacaroni;tosswithcheddarcheese.Transfertoagreased3qt.Bakingdish.Stirincreamsauce.

Bake,uncoveredat350for35to40minutesoruntilgoldenbrownandbubbly.Verygood.Ievenlikeitwarmedover.

RegularMacaroniandCheese

Cook2cupsofmacaroniuntildone.Drain.Add¼cupbutterormargarineandawedgeofVelveetacheeseabout1½to2inches.Stir tomelt inMacaroni.Add½cupsourcreamandahandfulofcheddarcheese.Thiswillmakeitverycreamyandisgoodwarmedupwithalittlemilkadded.

HamandCheeseCalzones

2tubescrescentrolls8oz.Creamcheese4to6.Slicedpepperoni2cupsdicedfullycookedordeliham2cupsshreddedmozzarellacheeseShreddedParmesancheese,optionalSpaghettisaucefordippingoptionalUnroll dough and form into rectangles. On a greased baking sheet. Spread half of thecreamcheeselengthwiseonhalfofthedoughtowithin1in.oftheedge.Sprinklewithhalfof thepepperoni,hamandmozzarella.Folddoughover filling;pressedges firmly toseal.Repeatwithotherdough.Bakeat400 for20 to2minutesoruntil

goldenbrown.SprinklewithParmesan.Cutintoslices,servewithspaghettisauce.

Crescentbeefburritos

½lb.Leangroundbeef2tbsp.Choppedonion2tbsp.Tacoseasoningmix½cupwater½cuprefriedbeans2cansrefrigeratedcrescentrollsShreddedmozzarella½cupsalsa1cupsourcreamParmesancheeseICan’tBelieveIt’sNotButter

Heatovento350.Spraycookiesheetwithcookingspray.Ina10inchskillet,cookbeefandonionovermediumhighheat,stirringoftenuntilbeefisthoroughlycooked.Drain.Stirintacoseasoningandwater.Reduceheattomedium;cookabout5min.stirringoftenuntilwaterhasevaporated.Removefromheat.Stirinbeans.Unrolldough,separatedoughinto8rectangles.Firmlypressperforationstoseal.Ifusingdough-sheets,unrolldoughandcutinto8rectangles.Spoonoutabout2tablespoonsbeefmixture.Topwithmozzarella.Startingwithothershortside,foldoverthedoughandpressto seal the edges. Spray with I Can’t Believe its not Butter. Sprinkle with Parmesancheese.Bake18 to23minutesoruntilgoldenbrown.Topeachburritowithsourcreamandsalsa.

Zestytacos

1poundgroundbeef1cupwater1pkg.Tacoseasonings8tacoshells1can15½oz.Black-eyedpeas,rinsedanddrained1cupchoppedtomatoes1cupshreddedlettuce1cup,4oz.Shreddedcheddarcheese½cupzestyItaliansaladdressingInalargeskillet,cookbeefovermediumheatfor5to6minutesoruntilmeatisnolongerpink; drain. Stir in water and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmeruncovered,for4to5minutesoruntilthickened.

Meanwhile,preparetacoshellsaccordingtopackagedirections.Stirpeasintoskillet;heatthrough.Spoon¼cupbeefmixture intoeach tacoshell.Topwith tomatoes, lettuceandcheese.Drizzlewithsaladdressing.Yield8servings.17gramsprotein.

Beefgyros1cupranchsaladdressing½cupchoppedseededpeeledcucumber1lb.bonelessbeefsirloinsteak,cutintothinstrips2tbsp.oliveoil5wholegyrosstylepitas6inches1mediumtomato,chopped

½smallonion,thinlysliced1carton4oz.Crumbledfetacheese2½cupsshreddedlettuce.

Inasmallbowl,combinesaladdressingandcucumber;setaside.Inalargeskillet,brownbeef in oil over medium heat. Layer half of each pita with steak, tomato, onion, fetacheese,lettuceanddressing.

Salmon,mashedpotatoesandcreamedpeas

Severalcupsofmashedpotatoes½cupdicedonionsSmallcanofdrainedsalmonMixtogetherandformintopattiesandfry.

Makeawhitecreamsauceandaddpeas.Serveovermashedpotatoes.Creamsauce.5tbsp.butterormargarine3tbsp.flour1½cupmilkSaltandpeppertotaste.Make a roux by melting butter and stirring in flour. Slowly add milk and stir untilthickened.Addpeasandserveoverpatties.Tryitaddingcheesetosauce.

Blueplatespecial

½poundfreshmushrooms,sliced½cupdicedonionSautéin½stickofbutteruntilgoldenMixtogetherandform6patties.1½lb.hamburger2slicesbreadcrumbs1squirtor½tbsp.preparedmustard1tsp.horseradish2eggRemoveonions andmushrooms fromskillet.Placepatties in skillet andbrownonbothsidesuntilmeatisnolongerpink.Combine1jar12oz.beefgravyand½cupwater.Pouroverpattiesandsimmerabout10minutes.Jimsaysdoublethegravy.Iuseacanofbeefbrothandthickenitwithcornstarch.

Poorman’sfiletmignon

1poundgroundbeefformedinto¼poundpattiesHouseseasoningtotaste,4slicesbaconPreheatbroilerMake4roundfilet-likepattieswiththegroundmeat.Seasonwell.Cookthebaconinthemicrowave but remove before it turns hard and crispy.Wrap filletswith the bacon andsecurewithtoothpicks.Placefilletsonasheetpanlinedwithaluminumfoil.Broilabout7to10minutesoruntildesireddoneness.

Houseseasoning:1cuptablesalt¼cuppepper¼cupgarlicpowderMixtheingredientstogetherandstoreinanairtightcontainerforupto6months.Makes1½cups.

Slowcookerbeefstroganoff

2lbs.Beefstewmeat,cutinto1½inchpieces2cupsslicedmushrooms½cupchoppedonionLargecanofbeefbroth2cupscarrotssliced1container,8oz.Sourcream2tbsp.FlourPlacebeef,mushrooms,onionsandcarrotsincrockpot.Pourbrothover.Cookonhigh6to8hoursoruntiltender.Mixsourcreamandflourinsmallbowl.Graduallystirin½cupof the hot liquid from slow cooker until smooth, and then stir sour creammixture intostroganoff.Cover.Cookonhigh15minutesoruntilslightlythickenedandbubbly.Serveoverhotcookednoodles.Weserveditoverbiscuitsanditwasdelicious.

Chickenandfluffydumplings

4chickenlegsandthighs1roundedtsp.Garlic1smalloniondiced2cupssmallcarrots2cupsdicedpotatoes1largecanofchickenbroth1tbsp.Cornstarch2tbsp.ColdwaterCombinethefirst6ingredientsandcookuntilvegetablesaretenderandchickenisdone.Let chicken cool enough that you can take it off the bone.Return to pan.Add 1 tbsp.Cornstarchto2tbsp.Coldwaterandmixintotheabove.

Dumplings1cupbiscuitmix½tsp.seasoningsalt½cuphotbrothfromabove2tbsp.MeltedbutterMixtogetheranddropbytsp.intohotmixtureabove.Replacelidandcookfor25to30min.on lowuntil a toothpick inserted inmiddlecomesoutclean.Donot lift lidduringcooking.Serves4to6.

BeefRiceaRoni

1boxofbeefflavoredricearoni1poundofhamburgerBrownthehamburger,addthericearoniandwaterandcookaccordingtothedirectionsonthebox.Easyandverygood.

PorkroastinaCrockpot

1roastseveralpounds1largecanofchickenbrothPutroastincrockpotonhigh.Coverwithchickenbroth.Cook4to6hours.RemoveroastfromCrockpotandslicethin.Take2heapingtablespoonsofcornstarchandaddtoacupofcoldwater.MixandthenaddtothebrothintheCrockpot.Stiruntil thickened.Iftoothickyoucanaddalittlewater.Placemeatbackintothegravytofinishcookingorkeepwarmuntiltherestofthemealisready.Youcanalsoaddpotatoes,carrots,onionstothebrothifyouwouldwantthewholemealdonethisway.

Irini’sShrimpinTomatoSauce

You need small oven safe small deep bowls for individual portions. Put some tomatosauceatthebottomfirst.(Ialsousedpizzasauceinsteadoftomato).Cuttheshrimpintohalf or smaller pieces as needed and put on top of tomato sauce.Then add feta cheesecrumbled.Topwithshreddedcheesetocover.Putintheovenandcookuntilthecheeseismeltedandstartingtoturnlightbrownabout½hourat350.

ChangesthatImade.26ozindividualovenproofdishes¾cuppizzasaucedivided½cupshrimpwithoutthetails½cupfetacheese½cupmozzarellacheese

Divide pizza sauce in the 2 dishes.Add the shrimp and feta cheese. Stir. Topwith themozzarellacheese.Bakeat350for20to30minutesuntilthecheeseismeltedandbubbly.Deliciousandsimpletomake.Ihavealsousedpepperoniinsteadoftheshrimp.Youcanalsoaddonions.

FriedpeanutbutterandBananaSandwichVerygoodanddifferent½cupbutter,softened¾cupcrunchypeanutbutter3tablespoonhoney1½teaspoonsgroundcinnamon2to3ripebananas8sliceswhitebreadFortopping¼cupsugar1tablespoongroundcinnamon

Butteronesideofthebread.Inasmallbowl,mixthepeanutbutter,honeyandcinnamon.Slice thebananas.Spread thepeanutbuttermixtureon4slicesofbreadandcoverwithbananaslices.Topwiththeremaining4slicesofbread.Grill thesandwichesinaskilletuntileachsideisgoldenbrown.Sprinklewith thesugarandcinnamon.Slicediagonallyandservehot.

Thepeanutbutterandhoneymixtureisdeliciousasatoppingforicecream.

HamSaladSandwich1poundbolognaground2or3dicedboiledeggs

RelishtotasteMediumoniondicedinfoodprocessorEnoughmayonnaise to stick together. If too dry, addmoremayonnaise and a squirt ofmustard.

Stromboli1poundgroundbeef1tbsp.finelychoppedonion½cuptomatosauce½cupchilisauce2tbsp.Parmesancheese½tsp.Garlicpowder1/8tsp.Groundoregano6KaiserRolls6slicesmozzarellacheeseBrown the beef and onion, stirring frequently to bread upmeat. Add tomato and chilisauce, parmesan cheese, garlic powder and oregano. Cook for 20 minutes, split rolls;spreadwithabout1tsp.Garlicspreadontophalfofeachroll.Dividemeatmixtureevenlyonbottomhalvesof rollsand topeachwith1sliceofcheese.Closesandwichwithbuntop.Wrapinfoil.Heatin350degreeoven15minutesoruntilcheeseismelted.

Garlicspread2tbsp.Butter,softened¼tsp.Garlicpowder¼tsp.PaprikaBlendingredientstogetherinasmallbowl.

Upsidedownpizza2poundsgroundbeef¼cupchoppedonion

16oz.Pizzasauce1½cupsmozzarellacheesegrated½cupsourcream1x8oz.Canrefrigeratedcrescentrolls2tbsp.Buttermelted1/3cupParmesancheeseBrowngroundbeefandonion;drain.Addspaghettisaucemixandtomatosauce.Simmergently to let flavors combine. Spreadmeatmixture into 9 inch x13 inch pan.Layer oncheese and sour cream. Top with crescent rolls, brush with butter and sprinkle withparmesancheese.Bake375degreesfor20to30minutes.Yield8to10servings

Loinwithhamandcheese

Takeporktenderloinandcutapocketdownoneside.Don’tcutallthewaythrough.Rollsliceddeli hamandSwiss cheese together tomakeapacket.Lay these in the sliceyoumadeinthesideoftheloin.Tieshutwithkitchentwine.Searinahotskilletonallsidestosealjuices.Thenputinovenfor20min.oruntildone.Sniptwineandmakeagoodaujusorgravyforovertopwhenserving.

Steakswithmushroomsauce

4bonelessbeefsirloinsteaksabout6ozeach

¼tsp.Salt¼tsp.Pepper

Forsauce1jar-4½oz.Slicedmushrooms,drained1tsp.Mincedgarlic1tsp.Canolaoil1/2cupFrenchoniondip.2tbsp.halfandhalfcream½tsp.Mincedchives¼tsp.PepperSprinkle steakswith salt andpepper.Grill steaks,covered,overmediumheatorbroil4inchfromheatfor5to7minutesoneachsideoruntilmeatreachesdesireddoneness.Formediumrare,ameatthermometershouldread145,medium,160andwelldone170.Ina largeskillet,sautémushroomsandgarlic inoilfor3minutes.Stir in theoniondip,cream,chivesandpepper.Bringtoagentleboil.Reduceheat;simmeruncoveredfor2to3minutesoruntilheatedthrough.Servewithsteaks.

SpicyCoconutSauceServeoverchicken,shrimpandrice

1tablespooncanolaoil1tsp.Choppedgarlic1cupcreamofcoconutmilk¼cupchickenbroth½tsp.crushedredpepperflakes¼cupevaporatedmilk1poundmediumshrimp,cookedorachickenbreastcutinchunksandcooked

Heattheoilinalargefryingpanovermediumheatandcookthegarlicuntilfragrant.Stirin coconut milk, chicken broth red pepper flakes. Bring to boil, reduce the heat andsimmerfor5minutes.Stirintheevaporatedmilkandreturntoasimmerwithoutboiling.Addthemeatandheatthrough.Serveovercookedrice.

Goalsaredreamswithdeadlines.Tacocasserole

1lb.Groundbeef½cupchoppedonion1x8oz.Cantomatosauce¼cupwater1tsp.Chilipowder1x16oz.Canrefriedbeans¼cuptacosauce8oz.ShreddedMontereyjackcheese2cupcoarselycrushedtacochips1cupshreddedlettuce¼cupchoppedtomato¼cupslicedgreenonion

Preheatovento350degrees.Browngroundbeefandonioninapan.Drainwell.Stir intomato sauce,water, chilipowderandcookuntilbubbly.Meanwhile stir togetherbeansandtacosauce.Spreadinbottomof12x7bakingdishthenspreadmeatmixtureontop.Bake 30 minutes covered until heated through. Top with cheese and return to ovenuncovered.Bakeuntilcheesemeltscompletely.Topwithtacochips, lettuce, tomatoandgreenonion.

Barbecuebeefonbuns

1bonelessbeefchuckroast1mediumonionchoppedLargecanbeefbroth1½cupsketchup¼cuppackedbrownsugar¼cupvinegar1tbsp.DrymustardSalttotaste2tsp.Worcestershiresauce1tsp.Chilipowder½tsp.Paprika½tsp.Garlicsalt

Place beef, onion in a crock pot; add beef broth to almost covermeat.Bring to a boil;reduceheat.Coverandcookuntilmeatistender.Removemeat,sliceandreturntocrockpot. Add ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar and seasonings. Cover and simmer stirringoccasionally. If mixture becomes too thick, add additional liquid. Serve on hamburgerbuns.

SkilletMacaroniandcheese

2cupsuncookedelbowmacaroni2tablespoonsbutter2tablespoonsall-purposeflour1-1/2cupshalf-and-halfcream3/4poundprocesscheese(Velveeta),cubedDirectionsCookmacaroniaccordingtothepackagedirections.Meanwhile,inalargenonstickskillet,meltbutterovermediumheat.Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add cream; bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2minutesoruntilthickened.Reduceheat.Stirincheeseuntilmelted.Drain macaroni; add to cheese mixture. Cook and stir for 3-4 minutes or until heatedthrough.Yield:4servings.

Montereychicken2chickenbreasts,beatflat1largeonionslicedSeveralmushrooms.Montereycheese

Sauté the onions until caramelized inmargarine. Slice themushrooms and frywith theonions when the onions are about done. Place them in a dish to the side. Pound the

chickenthinnersoitwon’ttakesolongtocook.Brownitinthesamepanthatyousautéedtheonionsandmushrooms.Whentheonesideisdoneflipoverandcookuntilthejuicesrun clear on the other side. Put on a plate, topwith the onions andmushrooms. Placecheeseon topandput in themicrowave just longenough tomelt thecheeseAbsolutelydelicious

GeneralTso’swingsRollthechickenwingsincornstarch.Getasmuchtostickonthemaspossible.Fryinaskilletinshortening.WhendoneandjustbeforeremovingthemfromtheskilletpourIronMan brand General Tso’s sauce over them. Heat through, turning it to coat all sides.Cornstarchmakesthingscrispier.

Friendshipisthegoldenthreadthattiesallhearttogether

CrispyRanchChickenRemoveshinfromchicken.Putinplasticziplockbag.CoverwithRanchdressingandrefrigerateatleast30min.Coatwithshakeandbakecrispycoatingandbakeat350degreesuntilcrispyandjuicesrunclear.Lifeisaboutnewdoorsopeningandolddoorsclosing.Lifeiswhathappenswhenwearemakingotherplans.

Honeybakedham6poundsboneinham1/3cupbrownsugar1/3cuphoney2tsp.Cornstarch¼tsp.Redpepperflakes¼tsp.Cayennepepper

Preheatovento350.Placehamonarackinafoil linedroastingpan.Baketheroundedside up for one hour. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix all ingredientstogether.Stiruntil it formsanice thickglaze.Rubonhalfof theglazeandbake for30min.more.Flipthehamoverandrubonremainingglazeandbakeforhourmore.Removefromovenandallowthehamtorestforatleast30min.beforeserving.

CrispyRanchChicken2cupscrispyricecereal1/2cupgratedParmesancheese1envelope1oz.Ranchsaladdressingmix2eggwhites,beaten8skinlessbonelesschickenthighs

Preheatovento350.Sprayalargebakingsheetwithnonstickcookingspray.Combinethericecereal,Parmesanandranchsaladdressingmixinalargebowl.

Placebeateneggwhitesinamediumbowl.Dipeachchickenthighintheeggwhiteandtheninthecerealmixturetocoatevenly.Arrangethecoatedchickenonthepreparedbakingsheet.Bakeuntilgoldenandjuicesrunclearwhenchickenispiercedwithaknife.20-25minutes.Servehot.

BestPorkRoastEver1porkloanroastSeasoningsalt

Icoattheroastgoodwiththeseasoningsaltontop.Putinahotpanwithverylittleoiltosearthemeat.Whenitstartstoturnbrown,turnitoverandcoatthatsidethatisupwiththeseasoningsalt.Searthemeatonallsidesandtheends.Thissealsthejuicesinkeepingitmoist.ThenIaddabout½cupwatertomakealittleliquidinthepan.Coverandplacein 350 oven. Cook until tender.Mine took about 2 hours depending on the size of theroast.Slicethinandyoucanservewiththepanjuicesormakegravywiththem.Imakegravyandputthemeatbackintothegravy.

Jim’sfavoritechickenbreast

Takeachickenbreastandpounditthin,coatwithmashedpotatoflakesandputinahotskilletwithsomehotshorteningtocoatthebottom.Itshouldsizzlewhenputintheskillet.Letbrownononeside,turnandsprinklewithseasoningsalt.Itcooksveryquickly.

Herbroastedchickenwithvegetables

Wholechicken4to5poundscleaned,skinon4bakingpotatoes,cubed1cupbabycarrots1largewhiteonion1clovegarlic

Rubchickenwithhalfmarinade,placegarlicand¼onionincavity.Roastchickenfor1hour at 375. Add veggies and marinade. Keep Roast covered for an hour or untilvegetablesaretender.Uncoverroastfor30minutesuntilchickenisbrownandvegetablesaredone.

Marinade¼cupvegetableoil1tspdriedthyme1tsp.Dicedmarjoram¼tsp.Salt¼tsp.Pepper1 clove garlic minced. Add all ingredients together and refrigerate a minimum of 30minutes.Afterrubbingchickenwithhalfof themarinade,put thereston thevegetablesandletsetuntiltimetobake.

Italianchicken

4chickenbreast,poundedthinwithameatmalletItaliandressing.PlacechickenbreastsinabakingdishandcoverwithItaliandressing.Coverwithplasticwrapandputintherefrigeratortomarinateforseveralhours.Heataskilletandputin2tablespoonsofoilforcooking.Whenhotplacethebreastintheskillet. Brown slightly on one side, turn over and brown on the other slightly until thejuicesrunclear.Youcanaddalittlemoredressingwhileitcooksifyoulike.

3cheesechickenandnoodles

3cupschoppedcookedchicken1½cupscottagecheesecloth

1can,10¾oz.Condensedcreamofchickenormushroomsoup,undiluted1package,8oz.Eggnoodles,cookedanddrained1cupgratedMontereyjackcheese½cupdicedonion/2cupgratedparmesancheesecloth1smallcanchickenbroth1can4oz.Slicedmushrooms,drainedoptional1canslicedwaterchestnuts1cuppeas2tablespoonsbutter,melted

Combineallingredientsinslowcookerandstirtocombine.Cookonhighabout3hoursoronlowabout6hours.VerygoodHomemadevenisoncheeseburgerhelperFromBrittany

1poundgroundvenison2cupmacaroninoodles2inchthickblockofVelveeta2tbsp.Butter1cupmilkSaltandpeppertotaste.

StovetopmethodBrown venison and drain if needed. Set aside and boil macaroni. Drain, addmilk andbutterandVelveeta.Mixuntilcheesemeltsandaddvenison.Canbakeat350for30minutesinovenandtopwithextracheese.

CaramelizedFrogLegs

1poundfroglegs3tablespoonssoysauce3tablespoonshoney1clovegarlic,minced1pinchgroundgingerSaltandpeppertotaste3tablespoonscornstarch1tablespooncanolaoil1tablespoonthinlyslicedgreenonion

Stir together thesoysauce,honey,garlic,andginger.Tossfroglegs inmarinadetocoatevenly,thensetasidetomarinatefor1hour.

Drainthefroglegswell,reservingmarinade.Seasonwithsaltandpepper,andtosswithcornstarchtocoat.Heat thecanolaoil ina largeskilletovermedium-highheat.Cook the legsuntilgoldenbrown and crispy, about 2 minutes per side. While the legs are cooking, bring themarinadetoasimmerinasmallsaucepan,andsimmerfor3minutes.

Toserve,poursauceoverthefroglegsandsprinklewithslicedgreenonion.Delicious

God issobigHecancover thewholeworldwithhis loveandsosmallHecancurlup

insideyourheart.PhillyCheesesteakPizzaRecipe6ServingsPrep:30min.Bake:10min.30

1smallgreenpepper,julienned1smallsweetredpepper,julienned1-3/4cupsslicedfreshmushrooms1smallonion,halvedandsliced1-1/2teaspoonscanolaoil4garliccloves,minced1prebaked12-inchpizzacrust1/2cuppizzasauce2ouncescreamcheese,cubed2cups(8ounces)shreddedprovolonecheese,divided1cupshreddedorjuliennedcookedroastbeef1/3cuppickledpepperrings1/4cupgratedParmesancheese1/2teaspoondriedoreganoDirectionsInalargeskillet,sautéthepeppers,mushroomsandonioninoiluntiltender.Addgarlic;cook1minutelonger.Placecrustonanungreased12-in.pizzapan.Spreadpizzasauceovercrustanddotwithcream cheese. Sprinkle with 1 cup provolone cheese. Top with pepper mixture, beef,pepper rings and remaining provolone cheese. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese andoregano.Bakeat450°for10-12minutesoruntilcheeseismelted.Yield:6slices.

Oatmeal

Makes4servings3cupsquickoats1cupnon-fatGreekyogurt1/4cuphoneyPinchgroundcinnamonPinchfreshgratednutmegPinchseasalt1/2pintfreshblueberries,raspberries,orstrawberries(about1cup)4tspdarkbrownsugar(optional)1/2cuptoastedslicedalmonds(optional)

DirectionsBring3cupsofwatertoaboilinamediumsaucepanoverhighheat.Addtheoats,stir,cover,andturnofftheheat.Once the oats are plump, about 4 minutes, stir in the yogurt, honey, cinnamon, andnutmeg.Gentlyfoldintheberries.Sprinkleeachservingwith1teaspoonofbrownsugarandfinishwithalmonds(ifdesired).

Steakswithmushroomsauce

4bonelessbeefsirloinsteaksabout6ozeach¼tsp.Salt

¼tsp.Pepper

Sauce1jar,4½oz.Slicedmushrooms,drained1tsp.Mincedgarlic1tsp.Canolaoil1/2cupFrenchoniondip.2tbsp.Halfandhalfcream½tsp.Mincedchives¼tsp.PepperSprinkle steakswith salt andpepper.Grill steaks,covered,overmediumheatorbroil4inchfromheatfor5to7minutesoneachsideoruntilmeatreachesdesireddoneness.Formediumrare,ameatthermometershouldread145,medium,160andwelldone170.Ina largeskillet,sautémushroomsandgarlic inoilfor3minutes.Stir in theoniondip,cream,chivesandpepper.Bringtoagentleboil.Reduceheat;simmeruncoveredfor2to3minutesoruntilheatedthrough.Servewithsteaks.

CrescentPizzaPockets1can,8oz.Refrigeratedcrescentdinnerrolls¼cuppizzasauce¾cupshreddedmozzarellacheese½cupslicedpepperonix24slices1teaspoongratedParmesancheese

Heatoven to375degrees.Unrolldoughoncookiesheetandseparate into4 rectangles;presseachinto6x4inchrectangle,firmlypressingperforationstoseal.

Spread 1 tablespoon pizza sauce on half of each rectangle to within 1 inch of edge.Sprinkle each with 3 tablespoons cheese; top with 6 slices pepperoni. Fold doughdiagonallyoverfilling;firmlypressedgeswithforktoseal.Sprinkleeachtrianglewith¼teaspoongratedcheese.Withfork,pricktopofeachtoallowsteamtoescape.Bake13to15minutesoruntildeepgoldenbrown.Servewarm.

CincinnatiChili

3poundsgroundbeef1½cupschoppedonion1½teaspoonsmincedgarlic2cans(16ounceeach)kidneybeans,rinsedanddrained2cans(15ounceseach)tomatosauce2cupsbeefbroth¼cupchilipowder¼cupredwinevinegar¼cupWorcestershiresauce1ounceunsweetenedchocolate,coarselychopped1½teaspoongroundcinnamon1½teaspoonsgroundcumin1teaspoonsalt1teaspoondriedoregano½teaspoonpepper1/8teaspoongroundcloves

HotcookedspaghettiShreddedcheddarcheeseanddicedonionCookthebeef,onionsandgarlicovermediumheatuntilthemeatisnolongerpink.Drainthefat.In a 5 qt. slow cooker, combine the beans, tomato sauce, broth, chili powder, vinegar,Worcestershiresauce,chocolate,cinnamon,cumin,salt,oregano,pepperandcloves.Stirinbeefmixture.Coverandcookonlowfor5½to6hours.Servewithspaghetti.Garnishwithcheeseandonionifdesired.Yield:10servings.

WoodduckchiliByBrittany

2or3woodducks,skinnedandmeatcutoffboneandinchunkslikestewmeat,putitincrockpot1chilisouppowderpacket2canschilireadytomatoes15.5ounce1canpintobeans15ounce1canlightredchilibeans15.5ounce1cankidneybeans15.5ounce1smallonion1tbsp.Choppedgarlic½cupbarleySaltandpeppertotasteCookfor5to6hoursuntilmeatistender.

WhitespaghettiByBrittany

1cancreamofmushroomsoupmakeasdirected1smallcanofchickenchunks1cupofcookedbroccolichoppedfine2cupsofcookedspaghettiAddalltogetherandheatthrough

RecipesfromtheGoldenSwanPolishSajuke

1lb.Hamburgermustbe100%leanbeeffatfree1t.summersavory1t.salt1t.pepper½t.paprika¼t.redpepperpowder,optional

Beverycompleteinmixingalltheingredients,foritmustbethoroughlymixedthroughallofthemeat.Aftermixingiscompletemakeonlygolfballsizepattiesandasyouarefrying themat that time,youcanflatten themout tomakepattiesa little larger.NOTE:theseburgersmustbeeatenwarmrightfromtheskilletassoonastheyareable.Iftheygetcoldtheirtastewilldissipateandwillbecomeveryhard.Theyaretobeeatenastheyarewithoutadditionaltasteenhancers,allthespicesgiveyouwhatyouneed.

Breadingforwildgamebirds

1quartbuttermilk2cupbuttermilkpancakemix

1cupfinelycrushedRitzcrackers.1tsp.SaltDashofpepper1or2freshlycleanedpheasant

First finelyslicepheasantbeingsure to leavenobones, rinse thoroughly.Layevenly inglass baking dish, then pour all buttermilk over pheasant making sure to have it allcovered and let set over night in the refrigerator. Carefully mix together buttermilkpancakemix,saltandpepper.Takethefreshlysoakedpheasantdrippingandrolltoevenlycoatwithpancakemix, thenrolloverfinelycrushedRitzcrackers.Lightlyspraybakingdishandthenlayoutevenlyandbake350degreesuntildoneoralightgoldenbrown.

SAUCE,DIPSANDSEASONINGSHoneyMustardMixequalhoneyandmustard.

Seasoning1tsp.Garlicpowder1tsp.Onionpowder1tsp.Mustardpowder1tsp.Paprika½tsp.Salt½tsp.PepperMixalltogether

Bestbarbequesauceever

2cupscatsup6Tbsp.Sugaroneofthembrown1/2tsp.Paprika1½tsp.Blackpepper1½tsp.Onionpowder1½tsp.Drymustard1cupwater½cupcidervinegar2tsp.Chilipowder½tsp.GroundredpepperBringtoboilthenadd1/2lemon,1tsp.Cornsyrup,1tsp.WorchestersauceSimmerforonehourMarinatemeatinBBQsaucefor8hours.Grillorfixintheoven.Absolutelydelicious.Idoubletherecipeandkeepsomeintherefrigerator.Weaddmorecayenneorredpepper.

Houseseasoning

1cupsalt¼cupblackpepper¼cupgarlicpowderMixandcanstorefor6months

FrenchVanillahotchocolatemix

15ounceNestlesQuik13ouncedrymilk1¼cupconfectioner’ssugar1cupFrenchvanillacoffeecreamer

Inalargebowl,combinetheingredientsandmixwell.Storeinanairtightcontainer,inacooldryplaceforupto6months.Makes26servings.Topreparehotdrink,warmmilkorwater,stirin1/3cupmixuntildissolved.Makesoneserving.

Howcomeittakessolittletimeforachildwhoisafraidofthedarktobecomeateenagerwhowantstostayoutallnight.

GarlicCream1to2clovesgarlic,minced2tsp.Butter1/3cupmilk1pkg.3oz.Creamcheese,cubed1tbsp.Choppedgreenonion

Inaskillet,sautégarlicinbutterfor2minutesoruntiltender.Reduceheattomediumlow.Add the milk and cream cheese; whisk until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.Removefromtheheat;stirinonion.Serveovermeatorpasta.

Chiliconquessodip

2tbsp.Realbutter,sliced1lb.BoxVelveeta,sliced8oz.Containersourcream10oz.CanRo*Teletomatoesandchilies1½tsp.Garlicpowder½tsp.koshersalt.

Combineallingredientsinacrockpotornonstick2quartsaucepan.WarmOver low heat, stirring often, until melted and smooth. Dip will thicken greatly whencooled.Servewithyourfavoritechipsordippingveggies.

Raspberryorblackberryvinegar

1cupblackberryjuice½cupcidervinegar1tablespoonhoney1tablespoonsugar.Bring all ingredients to a boil. Simmer 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.Refrigerate

Raspberryorblackberryvinaigrettes

3tbsp.Canolaoil2tbsp.Raspberryorblackberryvinegar2tbsp.Raspberryorblackberryjam1/8tsp.Pepper

Mixalltogetherinajarwithatightfittinglid,combinetheoil,vinegar,jamandpepper.Shake well. Thickens when you shake it. Serve over salad of mixed greens, onions,berries,kiwi,croutons,andspinach.Ialsolikeshreddedcheeseonmine.

Moneywillbuyafinedog,butonlykindnesswillmakehimwaghistail.Glazefortopofcheesecake

1boxofjellowhateverflavoryouhaveoffruitjuice1boxofcookandservevanillapudding1cupofjuice½cupofwater.

Combine pudding mix, jello, juice and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil; stirringconstantly.Itwillbecometranslucentandthick.Serveastoppingforcheesecakeorfruit.IcameupwiththisbecauseIhadacupofblackberryjuiceanddidnotwanttheseedsinthetoppingforthecheesecake.Workedgreatandwasdelicious.

Skylinechilidip

18oz.Packageofcreamcheese;spreaditonthebottomofaninchsquarepan.Topwithonecanofskylinechili.Placeapackageofcheddarcheeseonthetop.Bakeat350about30minutesuntilheatedthroughandcheeseismelted.

Business conventions are important because they demonstrate how many people acompanycanoperatewithout.BeefJerky

½cupdarksoysauce2Tbsp.Worcestershiresauce1tsp.Onionpowder1tsp.Garlicpowder¼tsp.Powderedginger2Tbsp.freshlygroundblackpepper½tsp.Tabasco2 lbs.Leanbeefbrisket,eyeof roundor flanksteak, trimmedcompletelyof fatandcutacrossgrainintoslices¼inchthick.Blend all ingredients exceptmeat in small owl.Dip each piece ofmeat intomarinade,coating well. Place in shallow dish. Pour remaining marinade over top, cover andrefrigerateovernight.

Ovenmethod:preheatoven to lowest settingabout130F.Place several layersofpapertowelsonbakingsheets.Arrangemeatinsinglelayeronpreparedsheetsandcoverwithadditionaltoweling.Flattenmeatwithrollingpi.Discardtowelsandsetmeatdirectlyonovenracks,withfoilbelowtocatchanydrips.Letdry8to12hoursdependingontemperatureofoven.

Dehydratormethod.Arrange meat on trays in single layer and dehydrate 10 to 12 hours, depending onthickness.Storejerkyinplasticbagsorintightlycoveredcontainersincool,dryarea.Ikeepmineintherefrigerator.

Lifeislikeahotbath,thelongeryoustayinthemorewrinkledyouget.

JalapenopoppersJalapeñopeppersslicedinhalflongways(keephalvestogetheraftercutting)1packagedryranchmix1packagecreamcheeseBaconToothpicks

Mixranchdressingmixwithsoftenedcreamcheese.Stuffpepperhalvesandplacebacktogether. (For best results partially cookbacon first)Thenwrap about a 6 inch slice ofbaconaroundtheoutsideofpepperandsecurewithatoothpick.Bakein350ovenfor10minutes.

Note~~Ifyoudon’tprecookthebaconitishardtogetitdoneenoughintheovenwithoutmeltingandloosingallthecheesemixoutofthepepper.

Worrylooksaround,Sorrylooksback,Faithlooksup.

ChocolatePeanutButter½cupbutter,cubed½cuphoney

¼cupbakingdarkcocoapowder11/3cupcreamypeanutbutter¼teaspoonvanilla

Melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in honey and cocoa as itmelts. Stir until smooth.Removefromtheheat; stir inpeanutbutterandvanilla.Refrigerate.Yield:2½cups. Itwillsolidifyasitcools.2tablespoonshas5gramofprotein.

Thereareatleasttwopeopleinthisworldthatyouwoulddiefor.Atleast15peopleinthisworldloveyouinsomeway.Theonlyreasonanyonewouldeverhateyouisbecausetheywanttobejustlikeyou.

Nutella

1/3 cup hazelnuts with skins on ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk ½ cup semisweetchocolatechips3tablespoonshoney

Heatovento400degrees.Placehazelnutsinasinglelayeronashallowbakingpan.Toastuntil theskinsarealmostblackabout15minutes.Wraphothazelnutsinacleankitchentowelandrubuntilmostoftheskinshavecomeoff.Discardskins.Process nuts in a food processor, scraping down sides of bowl occasionally, until theyhaveliquefied,-about5minutes.Setthehazelnutsaside.Combinethecondensedmilk,chocolatechips,andhoneyinaheatproofbowlorthetopofa double boiler set over a pan of simmeringwater. Stirring occasionally, heat until thechocolatechipshavemelted,about3minutes.Addthehotchocolatemixturetotheliquefiedhazelnuts,andprocessuntilthemixtureissmooth,aboutminutes.Transferthespreadtoanairtightcontainerandstorerefrigeratedupto1month.

HoneyGlazeforham1/3cuphoney

1/3cuppackedbrownsugar½tsp.Redpepperflakes½tsp.Groundredpepper

Youcanaddmoreofthepepperorredpepperflakestosuityourtaste.Thismakesenoughforhalfofham.Mixtheseingredientsoverlowheat.Bakehamforanhourandthencoatwithhalfofthemixture.Continuetobake.Halfhourbeforeitisdone,withthecutsideofhamdowninthejuice,puttherestoftheglazeontheham.Ifdoingabiggerham,doubletherecipe.Itwassogood,thatwepouredthejuiceinthebottomofthepanoverthehamafterwesliced inandhadput it inabag togo into therefrigerator. Iusedbrownsugarsplenda.

Sometimesangelsflycloseenoughtoyouthatyoucanheartheflutteroftheirwings.Iincreasedtherecipeforthehoneyglazeham3tbsp.Honey3tbspbrownsugar½tsp.Redpepperflakes½tsp.Groundredpepper1cupofwaterIheatedthemixtureuntilsugarwasmeltedandpouredovertheham.Iputthewaterinthebottomofthepan.Ibakeditat300forseveralhoursuntiltheinternaltemp.cametowhatitsaidonthehamwrapping.Cookingslowkeepsitfromdryingout.Iremovedthehamfrom the oven about 45minutes beforewewere ready to slice it.We basted it severaltimeswhilesettingonthecounter.Thejuiceisalsogoodtoservewiththeham.

Maplesaladdressing

7tbsp.Maplesyrup¼cupcidervinegar¼cupketchup3tbsp.Plus1tsp.Canolaoil2tbsp.Water½tsp.Preparedhorseradish¼tsp.Salt1/8tsp.Celerysalt.

Inajarwithatightfittinglid,combineallingredients;shakewill.Coverandrefrigerateuntilserving.

Agoodchefreadsthecookbook,agreatchefwritesthecookbook.Hotandspicydryrubformeat.

2tbsp.Brownsugar2tbsp.Paprika2tbsp.Pepper1tbsp.Chilipowder1½tsp.Salt1½tsp.Crushedredpepperflakes1tsp.Garlicpowder

Combine the seasonings in a small bowl. Keep this dry rub in a shaker on the shelf.Delicious on ribs.Rub onmeat andwrap them in triple layers of foil. Seal tightly andplace in the indirect heat andmedium heat. Ribs take 1½ hours or until tender. Thenunwrapandgrilloverdirectheatuncoveredfor10to15minutes.Turningoncetobrown

bothsides.

ForthehoneyBBQsauce2cupsketchup½cupdarkbrownsugar3tbsp.Creamedhoney2tbsp.Yellowmustard2clovesgarlic,minced4tsp.Turmeric½tsp.ChilipowderSaltCombineallingredientsandmixwell.Brushonmeat.

IknowthatGodwon’tgivemeanythingIcan’thandle.Ijustwishhedidnottrustmesomuch.Rusticrub

8tbsp.Paprika3tbsp.Cayenne5tbsp.Blackpepper6tbsp.Garlicpowder3tbsp.Onionpowder2½tbsp.Driedoregano

BayouBlast2½tablespoonspaprika2tablespoonssalt2tablespoonsgarlicpowder1tablespoonblackpepper1tablespoononionpowder1tablespooncayennepepper1tablespoondriedoreganoCombineallingredientsthoroughly.Makes2/3cup

Tartarsauceforfish½cupmayonnaise1tbsp.VinegarOniondicedfine1or2jalapenodiedfine1tbsp.SugarMixalltogether

SavoryMontrealSteakRub

1tablespoonMontrealsteakseasoning1tablespoonlightbrownsugar1teaspoononionpowder½teaspoonoreganoleaves1poundsirloin,porterhouseorNewYorkstripsteakMixsteakseasoning,sugar,onionpowderandoreganoinsmallbowluntilwellblended.Generouslyseasonsteakwithspicemixture.Grillovermediumhighheat8to10minutespersideoruntildesireddoneness.

Rubforchicken1tsp.Salt

2tbsp.Brownsugar1tsp.Cumin1tsp.Chilipowder1tsp.RedpeppergroundAtChristmastime,angelsarereallybusysoGodusesordinarypeople.

WhenSatanisknockingatyourdoor,simplysay“Jesuswillyougetthatforme?”

Spicyketchup1clovegarlic,minced1tbsp.Butter1cupketchup½tsp.Redpepperflakes¼tsp.Cayennepepper1scallion,finelychopped

In a saucepan over medium heat, lightly sauté garlic in butter, about 2 minutes. Addketchup, red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper.Cook another 5minutes.Remove fromheatandstirinscallions.Coolbeforeserving.

Timewaitsfornoone,treasureeveryminuteyouhave.UnderGod’swingsyouwill findrefuge. Blessed are the cracked for they are the ones that let in the light.Giving up isunforgiveable

Jalapenodip2lb.Velveetacheese½lb.Sharpcheddarcheeseshredded1largeonionchopped1pt.Jalapenoortosuityourtaste.Ifusingfreshittakesmore.1pt.Mayonnaise(Hellman)

Grindor finelycut first4 ingredients.Meltcheese.Combineall ingredientsandheat. (Iuseamicrowave.)Addmayonnaiselast.ServeinachafingdishwithFritosandDoritos.Keepswellintherefrigerator.Ifyouwantasoftercheese,substituteRaguCheddarcheesesauceinajarforpartoftheVelveeta.

RaspberryFondue

½cupwhippingcream6oz.(1cup)whitechocolatechips1/2cupseedlessraspberryjamMeringuecookies,strawberries,bananasormarshmallows

Heat heavy whipping cream over medium heat until bubbles appear around the edges.Removesaucepanfromheat.Addchocolatechipsandwhiskuntilmeltedandsmooth.Stirin jamand transfermixture to aFonduepot.Servewith the cookies,marshmallows, orfruit.

SweetOnionDressingLikeSubway

½cuplightcornsyrup1Tbsp.Redwinevinegar

1Tbsp.mincedwhiteonion2tsp.Whitedistilledvinegar1tsp.Balsamicvinegar1tsp.Brownsugar1tsp.Buttermilkpowder¼tsp.Lemonjuice1/8tsp.Poppyseeds1/8tsp.SaltPinchcrackedblackpepperPinchgarlicpowder

Combineall ingredientsinasmallmicrowavesafebowl.Heatmixtureuncoveredinthemicrowavefor1to1½minutesonHIGHuntilmixtureboilsrapidly.Whiskwell,coverandcool.Makesabout2/3cup.Itwillmakecandyifyouboiltoolong.

BroncoBerryDippingSauceLikeArby’sservesfortheirjalapeñopoppers

3/4cupwater1/3cupsugar1/4cupcornsyrup3tablespoonspectin2teaspoonscornstarch1teaspoonvinegar50dropsor1/4teaspoonredfoodcoloring1/8teaspoononionpowderdashcayennepepperdashgarlicpowderdashpaprika1/4cupmincedredbellpepper1/2teaspoonmincedcannedjalapenopeppers

Combine all the ingredients except the bell and minced jalapeno peppers in a smallsaucepan.Whiskwell.Setsaucepanovermedium/highheat,uncovered.Addpeppersandbringmixturetoafullboil,stirringoften.

Reduceheatandsimmersaucefor5to7minutes,oruntilthick.Removefromheatandletsaucesitforabout10minutes.Stirandcover.

Usesaucewhenitreachesroomtemperatureorcoverandchilluntilneeded.Makes1cupHomemadeCajunseasoning

1containersalt(26oz)2ouncecayennepepper1/3cupBlackpepper1/3cupChilipowder1tbsp.GarlicpowderPlaceinaziplockbackandmixtogether.Weusethisforeverything.

TacoDip12oz.Creamcheese,softened½cupsourcream

1tsp.Chilipowder½cupsalsa2cupsshreddediceberglettuce1cupshreddedcheddarcheese1cupshreddedMontereyJackcheese½cupdicedtomatoTortillachips.Inalargemixingbowl,beatthecreamcheese,sourcreamandchilipowderuntilsmooth;stir in salsa. Spread cream cheese mixture over a large serving platter. Cover andrefrigeratefor15minutes.Meanwhile,prepare toppings.Layercreamcheesemixturewith lettuce,cheddarcheese.MontereyJackcheese,tomato.Servewithchips.Makesabout6½cups

CheesyChiliButter1stickbuttersoftened½cupshreddedSwisscheese1clovegarlicminced½tsp.ChilipowderMixwell,putinservingdishandrefrigerate.Makes1cup.

Sauceforfishsandwich

¼cupplainyogurt1tablespoonlemonjuice½tsp.Dillweed¼tsp.Garlicpowder¼tsp.Gratedlemonpeel¼tsp.PreparedhorseradishCombinethesauceingredientsanduseforafishsandwichtocoatthebuns.

Breadingforfish

½cupdrybreadcrumbs½tsp.Garlicpowder½tsp.Paprika½tsp.Cayennepepper½tsp.LemonpepperseasoningMixalltogetheranddipfishin.Cangrillorbroil4inchesfromtheheatfor4to5minutesoneachside.

Horseradishcream

1cupsourcream2tbsp.PreparedhorseradishOliveoilKoshersaltandfreshlygroundblackpepperChives,finelychopped,forgarnishCombinesourcream,horseradishandadrizzleofoliveoilinasmallbowlandmixuntilthoroughly combined. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped chives andservewithshortribs.

Rusticrubforscallops

8tbsp.Paprika3tbsp.Cayenne5tbsp.freshlygroundblackpepper6tbsp.Garlicpowder3tbsp.Onionpowder6tbsp.Salt2½tbsp.DriedoreganoCombineallingredientsandstoreinanairtightcontainer.Seasonthescallopswithrusticrub.Heattheoilinalargesautépan.Whentheoilishot,searthescallopsfor2minutesoneachside.

SnacksStrawberryleather

2quartsstrawberries1(2oz.)pkg.Powderedpectinfollowgeneraldirections.1cupsugar½to1tsp.Almondorvanillaextract,ifdesiredGeneraldirectionsUsefullyripeorslightlyoverripefruit.Washfruitandcutawayanybruisedorspoiledparts.Pitcherries,peachesorplums.Discardspoiledgrapes.Pureefruitinblenderorfoodprocessor.Measure4cupspuree.Stirinpectinandsugar.Addspiceorextractifdesired.Mixwell.

Linecookiesheetsordehydratorshelveswithheavydutyplasticwrap.Spreadpuree1/8inchthick.Forconventionaloven,set temperaturecontrolat lowesttemperature.Dryingwilltakefrom3to6hours.Fordehydrator,settemperaturecontrolat140degreesanddryfor6to10hours.Leathersaredonewhenslightlystickytothetouch,butdryandpliable.Remove leathers from tray while still warm. Cut in strips or squares.Wrap individualpiecesinplastic.Leathermaybestoredupto2monthswithoutrefrigeration.Forlongerstorage,placeinrefrigeratorupto4monthsorinfreezerupto1year.

Turkeycheeseball2pkg.8oz.Eachcreamcheese6oz.thinlyslicedhamordeliturkeyfinelychopped1cupshreddedcheddarcheese2tbsp.finelychoppedonionRanchpowdereddressingmix6largeovalcrackersAssortedcrackersPecanhalvesDriedchilipepper

Inasmallbowl,beatthefirst5ingredientsuntilcombined.Shapeintoaballwitharaisedballforthehead.Refrigeratefor1houroruntilfirm.Stickcrackersinfortailandpecansforfeathers.Youcantintsomeofthecreamcheesetodecoratethecrackers.Usetheredchilipepperfortheneckandsnood.Iusedsomeorangecheeseforthebeak.

Onionpetals1Vidaliaonion,skinremoved

2eggs1cupmilk1cupall-purposeflour11/2teaspoonssalt1/2teaspoonfreshlygroundblackpepper11/2teaspoonscayennepepper1/8teaspoongroundcuminPeanutoil,forfrying

DirectionsHeatoilinadeep-fryerto350degreesF.Iusedasaucepan.Whisktogethertheeggandthemilkinamediumsizedbowl.Inaseparatebowlcombinetheflour,salt,peppers,andcumin.

Slicetheonioninhalf.Thenslicetheonioniswedgesandtakeapartanddiptheonioninthemilkmixture.Thencoatitliberallywiththedryingredients.Iputthedryingredientsinaplasticbagandthendropthepetalsinandshakearound.Place the battered onion in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 10 minutes.Removetoapapertowellinedsheettray.

CreamyDillSauce:3/4cupbuttermilk1/4cupmayonnaise1tablespoonfreshlychoppeddillleaves1/2lemon,juicedSalt and freshly ground black pepper In a small bowl, combine ingredients and whisktogether.Seasonwithsaltandpeppertotaste.ServewithFriedVidaliaOnion.

Good friends are like stars, you don’t always see them, but you know they are alwaysthere.Keepthemclose.BuffaloTurds

Thismakes a delicious finger food. It has to be put together at the last minute so theScoops or tortilla chips do not get soggy.The chili can bemade ahead andkept in therefrigeratoruntiltimetouse.Kidsliketoputthesetogether.Theydonotlastlong.

Ingredients:

1lb.Hamburgerbrownedslightly1mediumonionchopped1tablespoonchilipowder¼tsp.Groundcinnamon1,16oz.Canofpinkbeansrinsedandmashed1,14¼ozCanofdicedtomatoesandchilies½cupbeefbroth1Tbsp.Tomatopaste½tsp.SugarFritosScoopsortortillachipsCheddarcheeseSourcream

Salsa

Directions:Brown the hamburger and onions together until the onions are tender. Add the otheringredientsandsimmer forabout1/2hour.Fillaplatterwith thechipsor scoops.Putaspoonofmeatmixtureoneach.Topwithcheddarcheese.Popplatterinthemicrowaveabout 10 to 15 seconds to melt the cheese. Top with sour cream and salsa. Serveimmediately.Yield:serves8

Notes:Youcanalsousedicedgreenonionandjalapenosontop.InmyareaweareabletobuyCincinnati chili mix in a packet. I also use that when short on time and follow thedirectionsonthepackage.

Loveleavesamemorynoonecansteal.Snacks

Foodingredientstoavoid.HighfructosecornsyrupSugarEnrichedfoodsTransfat(hydrogenated)itextendsshelflifebutclogsarteriesSaturatedfats

Afistfullisaserving.Waistsizeshouldbelessthanhalfyourheight.Playdoughforkids

2cupsallpurposeflour2tbsp.Creamoftartar½cupsalt2cupswater2tbsp.CanolaoilFoodcoloring

In a large saucepan combine dry ingredients and stir. Gradually add thewater and oil.Cookandstirovermediumheatfor3to5minutesoruntilaballforms.

Cool. Divide dough and knead in colors as desired. Store in airtight containers or re-sealableplasticbags.Cookiepretzelpeanutbark

1¼poundwhitecandycoating.3cupspretzelsticks,brokenintopieces1½cupdryroastedpeanuts14 chocolate cream filled sandwich cookies, broken into chunks In a microwave meltchocolate.Stiruntilsmooth.Stirinpeanuts,pretzelsandsandwichcookies.Dropbyspoonfulontowaxedpaper.Letsetuntilcool.Storeinanairtightcontainer.

Chewyenergybars2½cupscrispricecereal2cupsoldfashionedoats¼thcuptoastedwheatgerm1cupcornsyrup1cuppeanutbutter

½acuppackedbrownsugar1tsp.VanillaInalargebowl,combinethecereal,oats,andwheatgerm.Inasaucepancombinethecornsyrup,peanutbutterandbrownsugar.Cookovermediumheatstirringoccasionallyuntilthepeanutbutterismelted.Removefromtheheatandstirinthevanilla.Pourovercerealmixture.Stirandthenpressintoa9by9greasedpan.Gentlypressevenlywithaplasticbagoveryourhand.Letcoolcompletelyandthencutintobars.

Mozzarellasticks

12piecesstringcheese12eggrollwrappersOilfordeepfatfryingMarinaraorspaghettisauce

Place a piece of string cheese near the bottom corner of one egg roll wrapper. Keepremaining wrappers covered with a damp paper towel until ready to use. Fold bottomcorner over cheese. Roll up halfway; fold the the sides forward center over cheese.Moisten remaining corner with water; roll up tightly to seal. Repeat with remainingwrappersandcheese.Inanelectricskillet,heat1/2inchofoilto375.Frysticks,afewatatime, for 30 to 60 seconds on each side or until golden brown.Drain on paper towels.Servewithmarinarasauceorspaghettisauce.

FAITHisnotknowingwhatthefutureholdsbutknowingwhoholdsthefuture!SoupChickentortillasoup

Serves8¼cupbutterormargarine¼cupallpurposeflour2smallcanschickenbroth8oz.Velveetacheese-cubed10oz.CanRo*Teltomatoesandchilies2cupscooked,shreddedchicken1tsp.Cumin1tsp.Chilipowder

MashedpotatoflakesFlourtortillasasneededColbyJackcheeseorMexicanblendcheeseshreddedasneededInapot,meltbutterovermediumheat.Stirinflourandcook,stirringoften,for3minutes.Slowlywhiskinsmallamountsofchickenbrothatatime.ReduceheattolowandstirinVelveetacubes;stiruntilmelted.StirinRo*Tel,chicken,andspices.Oncesoupisheatedthrough,itisreadytoserveatthispoint.Ifyouneeditthickenedusesomemashedpotatoflakesalittleatatimeuntildesiredthickness.Howeverifyouwishto make tortilla strips, it can sit over low heat while they are made. Stir the soupoccasionally.Fortortillastrips,cuttortillasintostripsanddeepfryin350degreevegetableorpeanutoiluntil golden, then drain on cooling racks. Spoon a ladleful of soup into a bowl, add ahandful of shredded cheese, then spoon another ladleful of soup over cheese. Sprinkle

tortillastripsovertop.Repeatforremainingservings.Youcanusecrumbledcornchipsinsteadoftortillastrips.AsasubstituteforRo*Tel,youcanuse1½cupsofsalsa.SpicinesscanbeeasilyadjustedbyusingspicyRo*Telorsalsaandaddingcayennepeppertothesoup.

Crockpotchili6qt.homemadeTomatojuice1tbsp.Garlic1quartkidneybeansalreadycookedSmallonion,diced½cupsugar2tsp.Salt1tsp.Pepper2tbsp.Chilipowder2poundhamburger5drychilipeppers

Icookthejuicedownforseveralhoursandthenaddtheotheringredients.Finishcookingfor8hoursandadjusttheseasoningstoyourtaste.Youcanfreezeorcantheleftovers.

Eachday is agift. You canwakeup complainingof theparts of yourbody that donotwork,orbethankfulforthepartsthatdowork.

CabbagePatchStew1lb.Groundbeef1cupchoppedonion11cupscoarselychoppedcabbageabout2poundsStewedtomatoes.2cansof14½oz.each1canof15oz.Pintobeans,rinsedanddrained1canof10oz.Dicestomatoeswithgreenchilies½cupketchup1to1½tsp.Chilipowder½tsp.Pepper¼tspsaltShreddedcheddarcheeseandsourcream,optional.Inalargeskillet,cookthebeefovermediumheatuntilmeatisnolongerpink.Stirintheonion.Cookuntilcrisptender;drain.Transfer to a 5 qt. Slow cooker. Stir in the cabbage, stewed tomatoes, beans, dicedtomatoes,ketchup,chilipowder,pepperandsalt.Coverandcookonlowfor6to8hoursoruntilcabbageistender.Servewithcheeseandsourcreamifdesired.Yield:8servings.Delicious.Ifreezetheleftovers.

ItiscomfortingtoknowthatGodwalkswithusthroughtheseasonsoflife.

Whitechickenchili1mediumonion,chopped2clovesgarlic,minced2bonelessskinlesschickenbreasthalves,cookedandchopped2cams(14oz)chickenbroth1canroteldicedtomatoesandchilies

1tsp.Groundcumin1tsp.Groundredpepper1tsp.Chilipowder3cansof14½oz.Ofgreatnorthernbeans,drained,dividedor1lb.Ofdrybeans.1cupshreddedMontereyJackcheese

Icookeddrybeansinwateruntiltheyaretenderabout2hours.Ihadaddedtheonionsandgarlicandcookedthemwiththebeans.Whenthebeansaretenderandthewateriscookeddown,Iusedapotatomasherandmashedsomeof thebeans.ThenIadded thechickenbroth, tomatoes, spices and the diced chicken. I cooked another half hour to blend theflavors.Weserveditwithcheeseonthetop.If not using the dry beans, precook the onion until tender. Then add the garlic, broth,spices,chickenand2cansofthebeans.Mashthethirdcanandthenaddit.Simmerfor20to30minutesoruntilheatedthrough.

Tortillasoup3quartschickenstock1½cupcookedchickencutfine214ozcanwholepeeledtomatoes(usedtinydices)1canofcreamstylecorn2¾tsp.Groundcumin1½tsp.Mincedjalapeno1½Tbsp.Mincedgarlic½tsp.Chilipowder1tsp.Saltmoreifnecessary2½tsp.Groundpepper3½cupscheddarcheese(trytousenachocheesesoup)½cupcornstarch1cupcoolwater1/3cupchoppedonionTortillachipsSourcream

Bringbrothtoaboilinalargepot.Add tomatoes to thebroth.Addcumin,garlic, salt,pepper, cornandcheese.Bring toaboilagain.Dissolve cornstarch in a cup or coolwater in small bowl.Add to boiling soup slowly,whilestirringconstantly.Setsimmer10min.

Whilesoupsimmers,sautéonioninskillet.Drainoffanygrease.Turnsoupoffandaddchickenandonions.Servewithsourcream,additionalcheddarcheese,andtortillachips.

Cut tortillas in strips ¼ inch wide. Cook in oil until light brown andcrispy.Drainonpapertowels.TryusingNachosoupinsteadofcuminandchilipowder.

Sausageandcornchowder

½poundsausage½largeoniondiced1stalkofcelerydiced1largecanchickenbroth1inchchunkofVelveetafromalargeboxMashedpotatoflakes

Sautésausage,onionandcelery.Addchickenbroth,cornandpotatoes.Thebrothshouldcover thepotatoes.Whenpotatoes aredone,mash themslightly.AddVelveeta and stir.Usemashedpotatoflakestothicken.

Linksausage,cornandmushroomchowder

½poundofsausagelinkscutintoslices½largeoniondiced3or4largemushroomsdiced,about½cup1stalkcelerydiced2smallcansbeefbroth1cupofwaterLargespoonofjalapenocheeseMashedpotatoflakes

Sautésausageuntilbrowned,addonions,celeryandmushrooms.Stir fry themuntil theonionsaretender.Addthewatertoloosenthebrownonthebottomofthepan.Addcansof beef broth. Simmer for 15minutes.Add the cheese and thicken to desired thicknesswiththemashedpotatoflakes.Weusethejalapenocheesediprecipebelow.

Jalapenodip

2lb.Velveetacheese½lb.Sharpcheddarcheeseshredded1largeonionchopped1pt.Jalapenoortosuityourtaste.Ifusingfreshittakesmore.1pt.Mayonnaise(Hellman)

Grindor finelycut first4 ingredients.Meltcheese.Combineall ingredientsandheat. (Iuseamicrowave.)Addmayonnaiselast.ServeinachafingdishwithFritosandDoritos.Keepswellintherefrigerator.

JalapenochickenchowderAbsolutelydelicious

1//4cupoil3largecarrots,dicedsmall.(Iusedapintofmyhomecannedones)1largeonion,dicedsmall¼cupmincedgarlic1jalapenodiced.(IusedseveralthatIhaddried)½tsp.seasoningsalt½tsp.Groundcumin1tbsp.ChickenbouillongranulesLargecanandonesmallcanofchickenbroth3 cups diced cooked chicken ( I have also used just half the chicken and a pound ofhamburgerMashedpotatoflakes½cupjalapenocheeseoraspicycheeseofyourchoice.(wemakethecheese,therecipe

shouldbeinappetizers.)

Heattheoilinalargestockpotovermediumheat.Addthecarrots,onions,garlic,peppers,salt, cumin, and sauté for 7 to8minoruntil thevegetablesbegin to soften.Stir in thebouillon.Removethevegetablesandbrownthemeat.Returnthevegetablesandthebroth.Cookonlowuntil thevegetablesaredone.Usethepotatoflakes to thickenandaddthecheese.Stiruntilblended.Adjustthejalapenotoyourtaste.Itthickensmoreovernightintherefrigeratorandisdeliciousoverbakedpotatoes.

Someonethatyoudon’tevenknowexistslovesyou.Whenyoumakethebiggestmistakeever,somethinggoodcomesfrom.Tomakewitcheshats

Spritz tortillaswithcookingspray;sprinklewith1/2 teaspoontacoseasoning.Witha2-1/2-in.roundcookiecutter,cutoutfourcirclesfromeachtortilla(discardscraps).Cutaslitintothecenterofeightcircles;shapeeachintoaconeandsecurewithtoothpicks.

shapeeachintoaconeandsecurewithtoothpicks.10minutesoruntilcrisp.

Asmilefromyoucanbringhappinesstoanyone,eveniftheydon’tlikeyou.Everynightsomeonethinksaboutyoubeforetheygotosleep.

Wontonsoup8cupsclearchickenbroth1cupminced,cookedchicken1tbsp.Mincedonion2tsp.Soysauce1tsp.Ginger,grated1pkg.wontonskins1poundcookedshrimp,peeled½poundChinesepeapodsPourchickenbrothintolargekettleandbringtoasimmer.Mixchicken,onion,soysauceandgingeruntilverywellblended.Placeonetsp.Oneachwontonskin,moistenedgeandfoldoverformingatriangle.Sealedges.Pinchoppositepointstogetherandseal.Addtochickenbroth and simmer10minutes.Add shrimp andpeapods and continue cookinguntilheatedthrough.Iwouldratheruseregularpeas.Puttheshrimpinatthelastminute.Overcookedshrimpistoughandrubbery.

Potatosoupwithsausage

1poundporksausagelinks,cutinto¼inchslices1cupslicedcelery½cupchoppedonion½tsp.Salt(optional)tastefirst2tbsp.Allpurposeflour1can14½oz.Chickenbroth1/2cupwater4mediumpotatoesparedanddicedabout4cups.1cupmilk1cupslicedgreenbeans,partiallycooked

Inaheavyskillet,brownsausage.Removesausageandsetaside.Drainallbut1tbsp.Fat.Sautécelery,onion,andgreenbeans.Cookuntilvegetablesaretender.Stirinflour;cook1minute. Gradually add broth andwater stirring until themixture comes to a boil. Addpotatoes; cover and simmer25minutesoruntil tender.Puree2cups inblenderor foodprocessor;orsmashwithapotatomasher.Addmilkandsausage.Heatthrough.

OnionSoup

4tbsp.Unsaltedbutter4largesweetorWallaWallaonions,sliced1tbsp.Sugar6cupsbeefbroth,divided2tbsp.WorcestershiresauceSaltandpeppertotaste4thickslicesFrenchbreadAdditionalunsaltedbutterGarlicsaltor1garlicclove,halved1cupshreddedGruyereorSwisscheese

InaDutchoven,meltbutterovermediumheat.Sautéonionsuntiltender.Sprinklesugarover onions. Reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are caramelized,about20minutes.Add3 cups broth, simmer 15minutes.Add remaining broth,Worcestershire sauce, saltandpepper.Coverandsimmerfor30to40minutes.Meanwhile,spreadbothsidesofthebreadwith additional butter; sprinklewith garlic salt or rubwith the cut side of garlicclove.Broil breaduntil goldenbrown, then turn andbrownother side.Ladle soup intoindividualovenproof soupbowls.Float a sliceof bread in eachbowl and sprinklewithcheese.Broiluntilcheeseismeltedandbubbly.Serveimmediately.Serves4.

Whenyouthinktheworldhasturneditsonyou,takeanotherlook.Alwaysrememberthecomplimentsyoureceived.Forgettheruderemarks.Eggdropsoup

6cupschickenbroth½cupthinlyslicedgreenonions¼cupspinachleaves6shitakemushrooms,stemsremoved,wipedclean,andthinlysliced1tsp.SoysauceFreshlygroundblackpepper2largeeggs,lightlybeatenInamediumsaucepan,bringthebrothtoasimmer.Addalmostallof thegreenonions,reservingafewforgarnish,andthespinach,mushrooms,soyandblackpepper.Returntoalowsimmerandcookfor3minutes.Stirringwithawhisk,graduallyaddtheeggsinaslowsteadystream.Cookuntil theeggsareset, stirring tocreate ribbonsof theeggs,1minute.Removefromtheheat.Ladleintobowls,garnishwiththeremaininggreenonions,andserveimmediately.

CheesyOnionSoupSimilartoasoupservedatOutbackSteakhouse.Deliciousserves3

2cupsthinlyslicedyellowsweetonions2tablespoonsbutter14to15ouncecanchickenbroth

¼tsp.Pepper2chickenbouilloncubes(Iused2tsp.Granulatedbouillon)¼cupdicedVelveeta1½to1¾cupwhitesauce,recipefollowsShreddedCheddarcheese,forgarnishIna2quartsaucepan,placebutterandslicedonions.Cookatlowtomediumheat,stirringfrequently until soft and clear but not brown. Add chicken broth from can, chickenbouillon,pepperandstiruntilcompletelyheatedthrough.AddwhitesauceandVelveetacheese.Thewhitesaucewillbethickbecauseithasbeenremovedfromtheheat.Simmeron medium low heat until cheese is melted and all ingredients are blended, stirringconstantly.Turn temperature towarmand letcookforanadditional30 to45minutes. Ialsousedaneggbeatertomakeitsmooth.Idicedtheonionsfinelyalso.Thickwhitesauce3tbsp.Butter3tbsp.Flour¼tsp.Salt1¼cupswholemilkIn1quartsaucepan,meltbutterandaddflour,cookonmediumheatuntilflourturnsthickandcomesawayfromsideofsaucepan.Pourmilkintoflourmixturealittleatatimeandstirconstantly,takingcarenottoletmixturelump.Setasideofftheheatuntilreadytouseinthesoup.

RedBeansandRiceSoup

2cupsdriedredbeans6cupswaterSoakbeansinwaterovernight.Nextmorningdrainandrinsebeans.Placebeansina6qt.Slowcooker.Add:8cupsofwater2mediumonions,chopped,1½tsp.Mincedgarlic2tsp.CuminCoverandcookonhighfor6hours.Add:1tsp.Salt(adjusttoyourtaste)1canofRoteltomatoesandgreenchilies4cupsofcookedrice2cupsofdicedham(Iusedspam)Coverandcookanadditional30minutes.Youmayhavetoaddmorewaterdependingonhowfastyourcrockpotcooksthemdown.Iserveditwithmoredicedonionsontopandcornbreadontheside.Itisdelicious.WeareonafarmandIneeddishesthatIcanputtogetherandthengooutsidefortheday.Thisdoesnothavetobewatchedandisreadytoeatwhenyoucomein.Itisevenbetterwarmedup.Itcanalsobefrozeninindividualservingswhatisleftforanothermeal.

CreamofchickencondensedsouprecipeGrind4Tofanywhitebean(Lima,navy,etc.)tomake5Tbeanflour.Combine:5Tbean

flour,1¾c.water,4tchickenbouillonintoasaucepanCook: On stovetop at medium temperature until thick and delicious (whiskfrequently).Thesoupshouldcookin3minutes!(Thismaybelongerifyourgrindermakesaverycoarseflour).Usethiswithcookedveggiesandormeatforacompletemeal.Youcan also add this to recipes calling for cream of chicken soup cans (I have found thisreplacesacanplusthewaterormilkinrecipes).

VegetablesBaconwrappedAsparagus

CutbaconslicesinhalfandtheninhalflengthwiseWraparoundtheasparagusandplaceongrilloraracksetonacookiesheetwithsidessothegreasewilldrain.Ibakedmineat400for30to45min.Itdependsonthethicknessofthestalks.Bakeuntilthebaconiscrispy.

Grilledasparagus

1 lb.Asparagusdrizzlewitholiveoil and sprinklewith1 tbsp.Mincedgarlic.Sprinklewithseasaltandpepper.Grill5minutesoneachsideoruntiltender.Ididmineinaskilletanditturnedoutjustasgood.Delicious

Hashbrowncasserole

1largepkg.Hashbrowns,frozen1pintsourcream½cupchoppedonion2cupsshreddedcheese¼cupmilkSaltandpeppertotaste

Mix all ingredients together. Put in sprayed casserole dish. Top with 2 tbsp. butterdropped.Cover andbake20minutes in a 350degreeoven.Takeoff lid andbakeuntilpotatoesare tender.Canusefat freesourcream,skimmilkandfat freecheese to lowercalories.Serves8to10.

Scallopedcorn1pkg.Frozencorn1cancreamstylecorn1tablespooncornstarch1/2cupchoppedonion1tsp.Salt1tsp.Pepper½cupsourcream1tubecrushedRitzcrackers1tbsp.Sugar

Mixallingredientsexceptcrackersandpourintobutteredcasseroledish.Dotwithbutter.Bake for1hourat350degrees. (Imeltedseveral tbspofbutterandmixed thecrackerswithitandputontop.Makesanicecrispytop.)

Asparagushambundles

3tbsp.Butter3tbsp.Allpurposeflour¾tsp.Salt2cupsmilk1cup(4oz.)shreddedSwisscheese2cupscookedrice8slicesfullycookedhamabout1/8inchesthick24freshasparagusspears,cookedanddrained¼cupgratedparmesancheese

Inasaucepan,meltbutter;stirinflourandsaltuntilsmooth.Graduallyaddmilk;bringtoaboil.Cookandstiruntilthickenedandbubbly.StirinSwisscheeseuntilmelted.

Combine1cupofcheesemixturewithrice.Spreadabout¼cupon thebottomthirdofeachhamslice.Topwiththreeasparagusspears;rollup.Placewithseamsidedowninagraded11x7in.bakingdish.Pourremainingcheesemixtureoverthebundles.SprinklewithParmesancheese.Bake,uncoveredat350for25to30minutesoruntilheatedthrough.Makes4servings.(parboiltheasparagustomakeitmoretender.)

Cookingthelargelimabeans

1poundlargelimabeans1cupoliveoil1cupfinelychoppedparsley2cupsfinelychoppedcelery2mediumonionschopped5to6clovesofgarlic,peeledandslicedthinorminced1 pound fresh, ripened tomatoes, grated or 1 tbsp. Tomato paste dissolved in a cup ofwater,or1/2poundofconcentratedtomatojuice,dissolvedin2cupsofwater.

Preparethebeans,puttheoil,garlicandtheonioninabakingpanandplaceintheoven.Leavethemuntilonionstakeasoftyellowcolor(shouldnotburn).RemoveAddthepreparedbeans,parsley,celery,thetomatoes,saltandpepperandacupofwater.(food should contain approximately 3 cups of water all together, including that in thetomatoes.)

Bake for about 45minutes in medium oven, a little longer for raw, peeled beans. Forsoaked,unpeeledandnonboiledbeansallowabout2hours.

Tocleanthebeans,pickthestonesandgritandsoakthemincoldwaterovernight.Drainand rinse them in a colander, put into a large saucepan and coverwith plenty of coldwater. Boil them until they are cooked, but still a little hard. This type of bean cooksquicklysobeawareuntilyougetusedtothem.Itwilltakeabout30to40minutes.Iftheygetovercooked,heygetmushyandsoggyandtheydonottasteattheirbest.

Drainthebeansthroughacolanderandsetaside.Inthesamesaucepan,heattheoliveoiland fry the onions, garlic and the herbs until they start turning pale golden. Add thetomatoeswithallthejuicefromthecansoriffreshtomatoesareusedaddalittlewaterandthe1tbsp.Sugar.Seasonwithsaltandpepper.Ifthesaltisaddedtoosoonitkeeps

thebeansfromgettingtender.Coverandcookfor30minutesoruntilthesaucethickens.Mixtheparsleyintothetomatosauce,addthebeansandmixwell.Spreadthebeansinanovendish.Youcansprinkleonalittleoreganoandblackpepperonthetopandcookinapreheatedovenat350degreesfor30minuteswithoutstirringuntiltheylookslightlycrispontopandquitedry.

An alternate method is to add the beans to the tomato sauce andmix well, cover andsimmerfor10to15minutes.Pickledveggiesalad

1poundfreshBrusselssprouts1cupsugar¾cupwhitevinegar2poundslicedfreshmushrooms1smallonion,chopped2garliccloves,minced1tablespoonplus¼cupcanolaoil,divided1canof8ounceslicedwaterchestnuts,drained2tomatoes,slicedordiced1tablespoonlemonjuice

CutanXinthecoreofeachBrusselssprout.Place½inchofwaterinalargesaucepan;addBrusselssprouts.Bringtoaboil,reduceheat.Coverandsimmerfor8to10minutesoruntiltender.Meanwhile in a small saucepan, bring sugar and vinegar to a boil; cook and stir for 1minuteoruntilsugarisdissolved.Removefromheatandcoolslightly.

Inalargeskillet,sautéthemushrooms,onionandgarlicin1tablespoonoiluntil tender.Transfertoalargebowl.Addthewaterchestnutsandtomatoes.Stirinlemonjuice.

DrainBrusselssprouts,coolslightly.Cutintoquartersandaddtovegetablemixture.Addsugarmixtureandremainingoil,tosstocoat.Coverandrefrigerateovernight.Servewithaslottedspoon.

Bestbakedbeansever

½lb.Groundbeef1smallonion,chopped½cupketchup½cupbarbecuesauce(IuseOpenPitbutwhateveryoulike)1/3cuppackedbrownsugar2tablespoonswhiteKaro1canof16oz.Kidneybeans1canof15¾oz.Porkandbeans(IusedCampbell’s)1canof16oz.Butterbeans

Inalargeskillet,cookbeefovermediumheatuntilnolongerpink;drainandsetaside.Inalargebowl,combinetheonion,ketchup,barbecuesauce,brownsugarandwhiteKaro.Stirinthebeanandbeef.Transfertoagreased3qt.Bakingdish.Coverandbakeat350for1houroruntilbeansreachdesiredthickness.Serves8.¾cupis17gramsofprotein.

CheddarPotatoCasserole

Ingredients1cupmilk4Tbsp.meltedmargarine1tsp.driedonionflakes½tsp.salt½tsp.pepper1pkg.(24oz.)frozenhashbrownpotatoes,thawed1tsp.paprika¾cupshreddedcheddarcheese

Directions

In a small bowl combinemilk, butter, onion flakes, salt and pepper. Add potatoes andcheesemixwell.SpreadinRock‘NServeLargeDeep,coverandvent.Cookonhighfor12-15minutesoruntilbubbly.Deliciousforabrunchorasasidedishwithdinner.Thetroublewithbucketseatsisthatnoteverybodyhasthesamesizebucket.After70,ifyoudon’twakeupachingineveryjoint,youareprobablydead.

OldFashionedBakedBeans

2poundsdriednavybeans4quartswater1largeonionchopped

Sort beans and rinsewith coldwater. Place beans in aDutch oven or soup kettle; addwatertocoverby2inch.Bringtoaboil;boilfor2minutes.Removefromtheheat;coverandletstandfor1to4hoursoruntilbeansaresoftened.Drainandrinsebeans,discardingliquid.ReturntoDutchoven;add4quartswater.Bringtoaboil.Reduceheat;coverandsimmerfor1houroruntilthebeansaretender.Combinebeanswiththefollowingingredients.

1½cupsketchup½cupwhitecornsyrup½cuppackedbrownsugar2tablespoonspreparedmustard1tsp.Salt1to2tsp.Groundredpepper

Transfertoabakingdishorbeanpot.Addmoreliquidifnecessary.Stirtocombine.

Cover and bake at 300 degrees for at least an hour or until beans are tender and reachdesiredconsistency,stirringevery30minutes.Yield16to18servings.Ifalargebatchisneeded,cookandserveinanelectricroasterforconvenience.

Youcanusemolassesinsteadofthecornsyrup.Youcanalsoadd½poundbaconorsaltpork,cutinto½inchpieces.RedBeans

1qt.cannedkidneybeans1tsp.Mincedgarlic½mincedonion

Seasoningsalttotaste1redcayennedriedpepperWhenImadethem,Icookedthedrybeanstomaketheamountof1quart.Iusednosalt,just theseasoningsalt.Icookedthemforseveralhoursuntil theyweresoft.Theseweredelicious.

CucumbersaladSprinklecucumbersliceswithsalttodrainwaterLetsetforseveralhours

Dressing½cupmayonnaise¼cupsourcreamBlackpeppertotasteorusemyseasoningsalt.

FreshVegetableRanchSalad

4potatoes,peeledanddiced1cupgreenbeans,snippedandbroken(stringifnecessary)Cooktogetheruntiltheyaretender.DrainAdd:¼cupdicedonion1mediumtomatopeeledanddiced½cupshreddedcheddarcheesePutonenoughranchdressingtocoatallthevegetableandmixwell.

BakedsweetpotatoesWashandpiercetheskinofthesweetpotato.Theycanbebakedintheovenordoneinthemicrowaveuntil a fork canbe stuck into themeasily.Then squeeze them to loosen thepulp from the skin. I cut a slash down the middle and fill with butter and sprinklecinnamonsugaronthem.Theyweredelicious.Martha’sspecialtoppingforsweetpotatoesorbutternutsquashoronbread.8oz.Creamcheese3tablespoonbutter5tablespoonbrownsugar(IusedbrownsugarSplenda)¼teaspooncinnamonMixalltogetherthoroughly.Storeintherefrigerator.

Sweetpotatocasserole4cupsmashedsweetpotatoes¾cupbutter1cupsugar;2wellbeateneggs1tsp.Vanilla½cupmilkMixandputinlargecasseroledish.1cupbrownsugar,firmlypacked½cupselfrisingflour’½cupbutter1½cupchoppedpecans.

Mix brown sugar, flour and butter into a crumbly mixture. Pat this mixture on top ofcasserole.Sprinklepecansontopofthetoppingandbakeat350degreesfor45minutes.

It’snotwhatwecarrywithusthatdefineswhatweare,it’swhatwedowithit.RanchPotatoCubes

7mediumpotatoescutintosmallcubes.(usedfrozenhashbrowns)¼cupbutter,cubed1cup8oz.Sourcream1enveloperanchsaladdressingmix1cup4oz.Shreddedcheddarcheese

Placepotatoesinagreased11by7inbakingdish;dotwithbutter.Coverandbakeat325for60to65minoruntiltender.Ifusingfrozenpotatoesonlycookthemuntiltheythawarewarm.Combinesourcreamandsaladdressingmix;spoonoverpotatoes.Sprinklewithcheese.Bake,uncoveredfor8to10minutesoruntilcheeseismelted.Yield8servings.

Godgiveseverybirditsfood,buthedoesnotthrowitintothenest.

Friedgreenbeans2tbsp.oil1qt.Cannedgreenbeans1roundedtsp.GarlicCrushedredpepperflakesParmesancheese

Put oil in skillet. Drainwater from green beans and put them in skillet alongwith thegarlicandredpepperflakes.Sautéuntiltheyaredone.Putintoservingbowlandsprinklewithparmesancheese.Delicious.

Forthosewholove,timeisaneternity.

RoastedpotatoesCutIdahopotatoesin6pieces.Drizzlewithoil.Dicegarlic,saltandpepperandmixwithpotatoes in a bowl.Put on a sided cookie sheet.Bake at 400degrees, stirringhalfwaythroughandfinishbaking.Bake30minutesuntilcrispy.

TobakeFrenchfries

Peelandcutpotatoesinstripsforfries.Spreadonpananddrizzlewithoil,saltandpepper.Bakefor35minutesat425oruntilgolden.Stirhalfwaythrough.

Cornpudding

4tablespoonsflour2tablespoonssugar½cupmilk2eggs1tablespoonmeltedbutter½tsp.seasoningsalt3cupfrozencorn1cupcreamstylecorn1cupshreddedsharpcheddarcheese

Combineflourandsugar,whiskinmilk,egg,butterandsalt.Stirinthecorn,creamstylecornandcheese.Pourintoabakingdishcoatedwithcookingspray.Bakeuncoveredat3774for50to55minutesoruntilaknifeinsertednearthecentercomesoutclean.

Live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, Satanshuddersandsays“OHNOShe’sAwake”BakedVidaliaonionswithmorelbutter

3largeVidaliaonions4ouncesmorels,sliced3sticksbutter,roomtemperaturePreheatovento450degreesTightlywraponionsin2layersoffoil.Placeonacookiesheetandroastintheovenfor35minutes.Sautémorelsuntil cooked inbutter. In amediumbowl, addbutter and fold incookedmorels. Place butter ontowaxed paper and form into a log.Wrap and place inrefrigerator until ready to serve. When onions are ready, use a paring knife to cut atriangularholeatthetopoftheonion.Placeapatofbutterintoeachholeandserve.Theonionsweredelicious.

Butternutsquashcasserole

3butternutsquash,peeled,seededandcubed1onionchopped3largeeggs½cupcoconutmilk1teaspoonsalt¼teaspooncrackedblackpepper½cupraisins½cupsweetenedflakedcoconutPreheat oven to 350.Lightly grease a 2½ quart casserole dish. In a largeDutch oven,combinesquashandonion;addwatertocover.Bringtoaboiloverhighheatandcook10to 12minutes or until squash is tender; drain well. Spoon squashmixture into a largebowl.

Inasmallbowl,whisktogethereggs,milk,saltandpepper.Addtosquashmixture.Beatatmediumspeedwithanelectricmixeruntil smooth.Spoon intopreparedbakingdish;sprinkleevenlywithraisinsandcoconut.Bake40minutesoruntilcenterisset.

AsparagusSnackSquaresRecipe36ServingsPrep:25min.Bake:15min.

1cupchoppedsweetonion3tablespoonsbutter2garliccloves,minced1poundfreshasparagus,trimmed1/4teaspoonpepper2tubes(8ounceseach)refrigeratedcrescentrolls1cup(4ounces)shreddedpart-skimmozzarellacheese1cup(4ounces)shreddedSwisscheese

DirectionsInalargeskillet,sautéonioninbutteruntiltender.Addgarlic;cook1minutelonger.Cut asparagus into 1-in. pieces; set the tips aside. Add remaining asparagus to skillet;sautéuntilcrisp-tender.Addasparagustipsandpepper;sauté1-2minuteslongeroruntilasparagusistender.Pressdoughintoanungreased15-in.x10-in.x1-in.bakingpan;sealseamsandperforations.Bakeat375°for6-8minutesoruntil lightlybrowned.Topwithasparagus mixture; sprinkle with cheeses. Bake 6-8 minutes longer or until cheese ismelted.Cutintosquares.Yield:3dozen.

ShrimpandGreenBeanStir-Fry1tablespooncanolaoil1poundlargeshrimp,peeledanddeveined11/2cupsgreenbeans,trimmedandblanched2garliccloves,minced2teaspoonsgratedfreshginger1/4teaspoonred-pepperflakes1bunchscallions,cutinto1inchpiecestablespoonfreshlemonjuice1tablespoonsoysauceCookedbrownriceHeata large skilletoverhighheat.Addoil and swirl tocoat skillet.Addshrimp,greenbeans,garlic,gingerandred-pepperflakesandstiruntilshrimpbeginstoturnpink,about2minutes.Addscallionsandstiruntilbrightgreen,about1minute.Addlemonjuiceandsoysauce.Cookaboutoneminute.Servewithbrownrice.

Roastedonions (blooming) cut onions almost tobottom in8 sections.Placeonbakingsheet, spray with cooking spray. Season with salt and pepper.Wrap in aluminum foil.Bakeat350untiltender.Servewithranchdressing.

HintsTreatmentforburns

Keepinmindthistreatmentofburnswhichisincludedinteachingbeginnerfiremanthismethod. First aid consists to spraying cold water on the affected area until the heat isreducedandstopsburningthelayersofskin.Then,spreadeggwhitesontheaffectedare.Onewomanburnedalargepartofherhandwithboilingwater.Inspiteofthepain,sherancold faucetwateronherhand,separated2eggwhite fromtheyolks,beat themslightlyanddippedherhandinthesolution.Thewhitesthendriedandformedaprotectivelayer.Shelaterlearnedthattheeggwhiteisanaturalcollagenandcontinuedduringatleastonehour toapply layeruponlayerofbeateneggwhite.Byafternoonshenolongerfeltanypainandthenextdaytherewashardlyatraceoftheburn.10dayslater,notracewasleftatallandherskinhadregaineditsnormalcolor.Theburnedareawastotallyregeneratedthankstothecollagenintheeggwhites,aplacentafullofvitamins.

Whatdidwork:onpeelinggarlic

Laythegarliconaflatside(afterbreakingthebulbsapart).Rest thetipof theknifeonyourcuttingboardand‘shut thedrawbridge’ let itcometowards thecuttingboard-butonlycutabout80-90%ofthewaythrough.

Whenyouarealmostthrough,stopmovingtheknifeanduseyourfreehandtopickupthebulbtowardsyou.FormostofyourgarlicthiswillremoveathirdofthepeelBrieflyblanchthebulbs inboilingwater(Idip themforaminuteor three inastainlesssteelcolander).Thegarlicwillpopoutofitsskinwithagentlesqueeze.More of a reminder - blanching also stops the bulbs from turning fluorescent.Rubbingyourhandsonstainlesssteelhelpsgetridofthesmell.Watchyour nails. If garlic gets under them (oftenhappenswhenpeople peelwith theirhands -orwhen ‘scooping’up largebunchesofgarlic) itwillburn.Andnoone likesaburn(recallthatoliveoilhelpscalmtheburnofhotpeppersonyourhands-notsureifitwoulddothesamewithgarlicornot).Hereishowtovisualizecommonportionsizes.AFIST=1cup.Onecupofcereal,spaghetti,vegetables,orcutfruitasaboutthesizeofyourclosedfist.APALM=3ounces.Athreeounceservingofmeat,fish,orpoultryisaboutthesizeofyourpalm,minusfingersandthumboradeckofcards.2/3ofyourpalmisabout2ouncesofmeat,fish,orpoultry.ATHUMB=1ounceofcheese.Achunkofcheesethesizeofyourthumbisaboutoneounce.ATHUMBTIP=1teaspoon.Oneteaspoonofpeanutbutter,mayonnaise,butter,orsugarisaboutthesizeofthetipofyourthumb.Threethumbsizeportionsmakeupaboutonetablespoon.1or2HANDFULS=oneounceofsnackfood.Forsmall foodssuchasnutsandsmallcandies,onehandfulequalsaboutoneounce.Forchipsorpretzels,twohandfulsisaboutoneounce.

EmergencysubstitutesIf you don’t have baking powder 1 teaspoon use ½ teaspoon cream of tartar and ¼teaspoonbakingsoda.Ifyoudon’thavebuttermilk1cup,use1tablespoonlemonjuiceorvinegarplusenoughmilktoequal1cup.Letstand5minutesbeforeusingor1cupofplainyogurt.Itgivesasubtletangtobakedgoodsandcontributestoatendertexture.Ifyoudon’thavebrownsugar,¼cup,use¼cup sugar twinor2 teaspoonsSweet andLowBrownsugar.Ifyoudon’thavetomatosauce,2cupsuse¾cuptomatopasteand1cupwater.If you don’t have onion, chopped ½ cup use 2 tablespoons dried minced onion or ½teaspoononionpowder.

Handyconversioncharts3teaspoons=1tablespoon4tablespoons=¼cup5½tablespoons=½cup8tablespoons=½cup102/3tablespoons=2/3cup12tablespoons=¾cup16tablespoons=1cup

1tablespoon=½fluidounce

1cup=½pintor8fluidounces2cups=1pintor16fluidounces2pints(4cups)=1quartor32fluidounces4quarts(16cups)=1gallonor128fluidounces

PropermeasuringtechniquesMeasuringliquids:placealiquidmeasuringcuponalevelsurface.Foratraditionalliquidmeasuringcup,viewtheamountateyeleveltobesureofanaccuratemeasure.Donotliftcuptocheckthelevel.Forstickyliquidssuchasmolasses,cornsyruporhoney,spraythemeasuring cupwith nonstick cooking spray before adding the liquid. Thiswillmake iteasiertopourouttheliquidandcleanthecup.Measuringsourcreamandyogurt:spoonsourcreamandyogurtintoadrymeasuringcup,thenleveltopbysweepingametalspatulaorflatsideofaknifeacrossthetopofthecup.Measuring brown sugar: since brown sugar has a unique moist texture, it needs to bepackedintoadrymeasuringcup.Firmlypressorpackbrownsugarintothecupwithyourfingersorthebackofaspoon.Levelwiththerimofthecup.Brownsugarshouldholdtheshapeofthecupwhenitisturnedout.Using measuring spoons: for dry ingredients such as flour, sugar or spices, heap theingredientsintothespoonoveracanisterorwaxedpaper.Withametalspatulaorflatsideofaknife,levelwiththerimofthespoon.Forshorteningorbutter,spreadintospoonandleveloff.Forliquids,pourintomeasuringspoonoverabowlorcustardcup.Measuring dry ingredients: for dry ingredients such as flour, sugar or cornmeal, spooningredients into a dry measuring cup over a canister or waxed paper. Fill cup to overflowing,thenlevelbysweepingametalspatulaorflatsideofaknifeacrossthetop.Measuringbulkdryingredients:spoonbulkdryingredientssuchascranberries,raisinsorchocolatechips into themeasuringcup. Ifnecessary, level the topwitha spatulaor flatsideofaknife.Measuringshortening:pressshorteningintoadrymeasuringcupwithaspatulatomakesureitissolidlypackedwithoutairpockets.Withametalspatulaorflatsideofaknife,levelwiththerim.Someshorteningcomeinsticksandmaybemeasuredlikebutter.Measuringbutter:thewrappersforsticksofbuttercomewithmarkingsfortablespoons,¼cup,1/3cupand½cup.Useaknifetocutoffthedesiredamount.Measuringtip?Nevermeasureoverthebatterbecausesomemayspill,addingtoomuchtothebatter.

Howfreshareyourspices?Exceptforblackpepper,McCormickspicesinrectangulartinsareatleast15yearsold.Ifyousee‘Baltimore,MD’onthelabel,thespiceisatleast15yearsold.IngredientSpices,groundSpices,wholeSeasoningblendsHerbsshelflife

2to3years3to4years1to2years1to3yearsExtracts4years,exceptpurevanillawhichLastsindefinitelyThe flavor experts atMcCormick recommend the following tips:Check to see that thecolorofyour spices andherbs isvibrant. If the colorhas faded, chances are sohas the

flavor.Rub or crunch the spice or herb in your hand. If the aroma is weak and flavor is notapparent,it’stimetoreplaceit.Storeherbsandspicesinatightlycappedcontainer,andkeepawayfromheat,moisture,anddirectsunlight.Replacebottlelidstightlyimmediatelyafteruse.Tominimizemoistureandcakinguseadrymeasuringspoonandavoidsprinklingdirectlyintoasteamingpot.Check the freshnessdateon thebottomor right sideof thebottle tohelpkeep trackofwhenit’stimetotoss.

MakeyourownseasoningsApplepiespice,1teaspoon=½teaspoongroundcinnamon,¼teaspoongroundnutmeg,1/8teaspoongroundallspiceandadashofgroundgingerCajunseasoning,1tablespoon=½ teaspoon white pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½teaspoongroundredpepper,½teaspoonpaprikaand½teaspoongroundblackpepperFresh snipped herbs, 1 tablespoon= ½ to 1 teaspoon dried herbs Poultry seasoning, 1teaspoon=¾teaspoondriedsageand¼teaspoondriedthyme.

Pumpkinpiespice,1teaspoon=½teaspoongroundcinnamon,¼teaspoongroundginger,¼teaspoongroundallspiceand1/8teaspoongroundnutmeg.

Spicesubstitutionswhensubstitutingspices,startwithhalftheamounttherecipecallsforandaddtosuityourtaste.Ifyoudon’thavegroundallspiceusegroundcinnamon,nutmegorcloves.Chilipowderusedashofbottledhotpeppersauceplusequalmeasuresofgroundoreganoandcumin.Cloves,groundusegroundallspice,cinnamonornutmegCumin,groundusechilipowderMustard,dry1teaspoonuse1tablespoonyellowmustardPaprikausecayennepepper,justadash.It’shotterthanpaprika.Cayennepepper,ground,1/8teaspoonuse2to3dropsbottledhotpeppersauce.

Watermelon

Tomakefrozenwatermeloncubes,simplyfreezeinashallowpanfor1to2hours.Tochooseawatermelon,giveittheonceover.Lookforafirm,symmetrical,watermelonthat is free from bruises, cuts or dents. Lift it up. It should be heavy for its size.Watermelonis92%water.Turnitover,theundersideofthemelonshouldhaveacreamyyellowspotwhereitsatonthegroundandripenedinthesun.

Choosing andhandlingpre-cutwatermelon, the fleshof themelon should appeardenseand firm.Refrigerate topreservemaximumfreshness.Cover thecut surfaceofamelonwithplasticwraptopreventitfrombecomingmushy.Storechunksofmelonincoveredplasticcontainers.

Storage and handling of watermelon. Handle your whole watermelon gently, to avoidinternal bruising. Wash your hands before and after handling watermelon. Wash yourwholewatermelonunderrunningwater,rinsewellandpatdry.Cutthefleshfromtherind,andcutinto1inchcubes.Placeincoveredcontainerandrefrigerateimmediately.Shouldbeeatenwithin3to4days.

Deseedingawatermelon:ifyouwouldliketode-seedawatermelon,cutitinhalfthenin

quarters.Cutthroughthefleshofthemelonalongtheseedlinewithaparingknife.Nextliftoff thepieceyoujustcutout.Usingafork,scrapetheseedsfromthepieceyoujustremovedandfromtheremainingfleshontherind.

Thingsthatwork:

Fliesorbeesbotheringyou?Spraythemwithhairsprayandtheywilltakeaquickdive.Sealedenvelope-putinthefreezerforafewhours,thenslideaknifeundertheflap.Theenvelopecanthenberesealed.Useemptytoiletpaperrolltostoreappliancecords.ItkeepsthemneatandyoucanwriteontherollwhatapplianceitbelongstoFor icydoorsteps in freezing temperatures;getwarmwaterandputDawndishwashingliquid in it. Pour it all over the steps. Theywon’t refreeze.Crayonmarks onwalls?Adamprag,dippedinbakingsodaandtheywillcomeoffwithlittleeffortPermanentmarkeronappliances/counter tops like store receiptBLUE.Rubbingalcoholonpapertowel.WheneverIpurchaseaboxofS.O.S.pads,Iimmediatelytakeapairofscissorsandcuteachpadintohalves.Afteryearsofhavingtothrowawayrustedandunusedandsmellypads,Idecidedthatthiswouldbemoreeconomical.Ihavealsonoticedthatthescissorsgetsharpenedthiswas.Openingbrandnewjarscanbeafeatinitself.Insteadofbangingajarofjam,pickles,etc.,withaknifeuntilitloosensup,pulloutthehandynutcracker.Itadjuststothesizeofthejarandgiveitagoodtwistandoffpopsthelid.Bloodstainsonclothes.Poura littleperoxideonaclothandproceed towipeoffeverydropofblood.Usevertical strokeswhenwashingwindowsoutside andhorizontal for insidewindows.This way you can tell which side has the streaks. Straight vinegar will get outsidewindowsreallyclean.Don’twashwindowsonasunnyday.Theydrytooquicklyandwillprobablystreak.Sprayabitofperfumeonthe lightbulb inanyroomtocreatea lovelylightscentineachroomwhenthelightisturnedon.Placefabricsoftenersheetsindresserdrawersandyourclotheswillsmellfreshlywashedforweekstocome.Youcanalsodothiswithtowelsandlinen.Candleswilllastalotlongerifplacedinthefreezerforatleast3hourspriortoburning.To clean artificial flowers, pour some salt into a paper bag and add the flowers. Shakevigorously as the saltwill absorb all the dust and dirt and leave your artificial flowerslookinglikenew.Toeasilyremoveburntonfoodfromyourskillet,simplyaddadroportwoofdishsoapandenoughwatertocoverbottomofpan,andbringtoaboilonstovetop.Spray your Tupperware with nonstick cooking spray before pouring in tomato basedsaucesandtherewon’tbeanystains.Whenacakerecipecallsforflouringthebakingpan,useabitofthedrycakemixinsteadandtherewon’tbeanywhitemessontheoutsideofthecake.Wrapceleryinaluminumfoilwhenputtingintherefrigeratoranditwillkeepforweeks.Whenboilingcornon thecob,addapinchofsugar tohelpbringout thecorn’snaturalsweetness.Cureforheadaches;takealime,cutitinhalfandrubitonyourforehead.Thethrobbingwillgoaway.Don’tthrowoutallthatleftoverwine;freezeintoicecubesforfutureuseincasserolesand

sauces.To get rid of itch from mosquito bites, try applying soap on the area and you willexperienceinstantrelief.

Ants,everywhere.Getoutyourchalkanddrawalineonthefloororwhereverantstendtomarch.Theyare said tonevercrossa chalk line.Whenyouget a splinter reach for thescotchtapebeforeresortingtotweezersoraneedle.Simplyputthetapeoverthesplinter,thenpullitoff.Itremovesmostsplinterspainlesslyandeasily.LookwhatyoucandowithAlkaSeltzer.Cleanatoilet.Dropintwotablets,waittwentyminutes,brushandflush.Thecitricacidandeffervescentactioncleanvitreouschina.Cleanavase.Toremoveastainfromthebottomofaglassvaseofcruet,fillwithwateranddropintwotablets.Polishjewelrybydroppingtwotabletsintoaglassofwaterandimmersethejewelryfortwominutes.Cleanathermosbottle.Fillthebottlewithwater,dropinfourtabletsandletsoakforanhourorlonger.Unclogadrain.Clearthesinkdrainbydropping3tabletsdownthedrainfollowedbyacupofHeinzWhiteVinegar.Waitafewminutesthenrunthehotwater.

Friends are like quiet angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have troublerememberinghowtofly.Gettingridofskunkodor

1cupperoxide¼cupbakingsoda1tbsp.DishsoapMixalltogetherandpouroveryourdog.Leaveonfor5minutes.Rinsethoroughly.

HomemaderollupsLine2flatbakingsheetswithfoilsprayedwithcookingspray.Drainfruitsavingalittleliquid. Process in blender untilwell pureed. Spread so that puree is evenly distributed.Placeonracksin175degreeoven.Withovendoorajar,allowmixturetodryabout2to3hoursuntilfruitistackyandpullsofffoilinonepiece.Iuseafooddryerandsprinklewithconfectionerssugartokeepfrombeingsticky.Cuteachpanintostripsandformrollup.Storerollupsinanairtightcontainer.Aftersteamingvegetables,usetheleftoverwaterforhouseplants.It’sfullofvitaminsthatmakeplantsflourish.Don’tdiscardshellsaftercrackingnuts.Theyworknicelyinthebottomofflowerpotsfordrainage.Your fernswill love it ifyouaddeggshells to thewater and let themsoaka short timebeforeusingittowaterthem.Fortenderrhubarbstalks,besuretowaterplantswelladayortwobeforepicking.Do crows get in your garden? Tie strips of black, red or orange cloth to posts in thegarden.Whenthewindblowsitscaresthemaway.Ifyouhaveproblemsholdingacactuswhilerepotting,usekitchentongstoholdtheplantinplacewhileputtingdirtarounditsroots.Duetoarthritis,itwasdifficulttoreachthebirdfeedershangingfromtrees.NowIhangthemlowerbyusingbungeecords.Tomakeflowerslastlongafterbloomingtime,pressthem.Putthebloomsbetweensheets

of tissuepaper andplace them in bookswith aweight on top.Whendry, glue them inprettydesignsonheavypaperandframethem.Pudding, yogurt and cream cheese cups are perfect for starting seeds in the spring.Dandelionswill do a disappearing act if you spray purewhite vinegarwhere the rootswereafterpulling.Don’tworryaboutthegrass.Itwillgrowbackfast.Keepdogsandcatsoutofyourflowerbedswithmothballs.Usemaskingtapetoresealtheopenendofsmall,empty,vegetablecansandfillhalfwithmothballs.Intheclosedendofthecans,punchafewsmallholes,thenplacethecansinyourgardens.Themothballswilllastlongerandtheodorwillkeepanimalsaway.Parsleymakesabeautifulborderaroundaflowergarden.It’saconvenient,practicalwaytohavefreshparsleyonhandforcookingandgarnishes.

TipsforstoringandcookinggrainsYoucanstorewhiteandwildriceinanairtightcontainerindefinitely.Brownricehasanoilybranlayerthatcanturnrancidatroomtemperature.Storeintherefrigeratorforupto6months.Alwaysrinsewildricebeforecooking.Itisnotnecessarytorinseothergrains.Whencookingricedonotstirorliftthecoverunlessinstructedintherecipe.Wild rice and barley may become tender without absorbing all the cooking liquid. Ifnecessary,drainbeforeservingorcombiningwithotheringredients.Forfluffierrice,removethesaucepanfromtheheataftercookingtimeiscompleteandletstand for5 to10minutes.Fluffwitha forkandserve.Leftovercookedwhiteorbrownrice,wildriceandbarleyfreezewell;defrostandreheatinthemicrowaveovenforuseinrecipescallingforcookedriceorforaquicksidedish.Allow½to¾cupcookedrice,wildriceorbarleyforeachsidedishserving.TipsforcookingdrybeansPlacedrybeansinabowloronaplate;sort throughthem,removinganybrokenbeans,pebblesorgrit.Rinsebeanswithcoldwaterinacolander.Mostdrybeans,exceptsplitpeasandlentilsneedtobesoakedbeforecooking.Addsaltoranyacidic ingredients, like tomatoesandvinegar to thebeansonlyafter thebeans have been cooked.Otherwise the beanswon’t soften.To test beans for donenesswhilecookingremoveabeanfromthepotandplaceitonacuttingboard.Mashthebeanwith the backof a spoon. If itmashes easily and is soft in the center of the bean, it isthoroughlycooked.Allowabout½cupofcookedbeansforeachserving.Shortcuts:Placesilverinanaluminumpanorinyourkitchensinklinedwithaluminumfoil. Sprinkle with three tablespoons of baking soda and cover with boiling water. Letstandfor10to12minutes

Stainless steel lost its luster? Place your flatware in a pan and cover with bubblycarbonatedwater,sodawater,seltzerorclubsoda.Letsetuntilthefizzhasfizzled.Itwillnowshinelikenew.

Tomendaleakingvase,coattheinsidewithalayerofparaffinandallowittoharden.Theparaffinwilllastindefinitelyandthevasewillnotleak.Ifyourelyonelectricfanstocoolthingsoff inhotweather, follow this tip toeliminate theannoyingnoiseavibrating fancanmake. Simply place a piece of foam under each fan. Everyonewill sleep cool andundisturbed.

Chocolateplayclay116ouncereadytospreadchocolatefrosting1cupcreamypeanutbutter1½cupconfectioner’ssugarIn a large bowlmix all together. This is ready for play or can be stored in an airtightcontainerintherefrigerator.Washhandsbeforeplayingandiftheywanttotasteitdoitbeforetheystarttoplaywithit.Willkeepintherefrigeratorforseveralweeks.

WD-40uses:Protectssilverfromtarnishing.Removesroadtarandgrimefromcars.

Cleansandlubricatesguitarstrings.Givesfloorsthat‘just-waxed’sheenwithoutmakingthemslippery.Keepsfliesoffcows.

Restoresandcleanschalkboards.Removeslipstickstains.Loosensstubbornzippers.Untanglesjewelrychains.Removesstainsfromstainlesssteelsinks.Removesdirtandgrimefromthebarbecuegrill.Keepsceramic/terracottagardenpotsfromoxidizing.Removestomatostainsfromclothing.Keepsglassshowerdoorsfreeofwaterspots..Camouflagesscratchesinceramicandmarblefloors.Keepsscissorsworkingsmoothly.Lubricatesnoisydoorhingesonvehiclesanddoorsinhomes.

Itremovesblackscuffmarksfromthekitchenfloor!UseWD-40forthosenastytarandscuffmarksonflooring.Itdoesn’tseemtoharmthefinishandyouwon’thavetoscrubnearlyashardtogetthemoff.Justremembertoopensomewindowsifyouhavealotofmarks.

Buggutswilleatawaythefinishonyourcarifnotremovedquickly!UseWD-40!Givesachildren’splaygroundgymslideashineforasuperfastslide.Lubricatesgearshiftandmowerdeckleverforeaseofhandlingonridingmowers…Ridskidsrockingchairsandswingsofsqueakynoises.Lubricatestracksinstickinghomewindowsandmakesthemeasiertoopen..Sprayinganumbrellastemmakesiteasiertoopenandclose.Restoresandcleanspaddedleatherdashboardsinvehicles,aswellasvinylbumpers.Restoresandcleansroofracksonvehicles.Lubricates and stops squeaks in electric fans Lubricates wheel sprockets on tricycles,wagons,andbicyclesforeasyhandlingLubricatesfanbeltsonwashersanddryersandkeepsthemrunningsmoothly.Keepsrustfromformingonsawsandsawblades,andothertools.Removessplatteredgreaseonstove.Keepsbathroommirrorfromfogging.Lubricatesprostheticlimbs.

Keepspigeonsoffthebalcony(theyhatethesmell).Removesalltracesofducttape.Folksevensprayitontheirarms,hands,andkneestorelievearthritispain.Florida‘sfavoriteuseis:‘cleansandremoveslovebugsfromgrillsandbumpers.’ThefavoriteuseinthestateofNewYork,WD-40protectstheStatueofLibertyfromtheelements.WD-40attractsfish.Sprayalittleonlivebaitorluresandyouwillbecatchingthebigoneinnotime.Also,it’salotcheaperthan

thechemicalattractants thataremadefor just thatpurpose.Keepinmindthough,usingsomechemicallacedbaitsorluresforfishingarenotallowedinsomestates.

Useitforfireantbites.Ittakesthestingawayimmediatelyandstopstheitch.WD-40isgreatforremovingcrayonfromwalls..Sprayonthemarkandwipewithacleanrag.Also,ifyou’vediscoveredthatyourteenagedaughterhaswashedanddriedatubeoflipstickwithaloadoflaundry,saturatethelipstickspotswithWD-40andrewash.Presto!Thelipstickisgone!IfyousprayedWD-40onthedistributorcap,itwoulddisplacethemoistureandallowthecartostart.ThebasicingredientisFISHOil

EATLOTSOFSWEETPOTATOESIt’sbeensaidthatGodfirstseparatedthesaltwaterfromthefresh,madedryland,plantedagarden,madeanimals and fish…Allbeforemakingahuman.Hemadeandprovidedwhatwe’dneedbeforewewereborn.Thesearebest&morepowerfulwheneatenraw.We’resuchslowlearners…God leftusagreatclueas towhat foodshelpwhatpartofourbody!God’sPharmacy!Amazing!AslicedCarrotlookslikethehumaneye.Thepupil,irisandradiatinglineslookjustlikethehumaneye…AndYES,sciencenowshowscarrotsgreatlyenhancebloodflowtoandfunctionoftheeyes.ATomatohasfourchambersandisred.Thehearthasfourchambersand is red.Allof the research shows tomatoes are loadedwith lycopineandare indeedpureheartandbloodfood.Grapeshanginaclusterthathastheshapeoftheheart.Eachgrapelookslikeabloodcelland all of the research today showsgrapes are alsoprofoundheart andbloodvitalizingfood.AWalnutlookslikealittlebrain,aleftandrighthemisphere,uppercerebrumsandlowercerebellums.Even thewrinklesor foldson thenutare just like theneo-cortex.Wenowknow walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brainfunction.KidneyBeansactuallyhealandhelpmaintainkidneyfunctionandyes,theylookexactlylikethehumankidneys.Celery,BokChoy,Rhubarbandmanymorelookjustlikebones.Thesefoodsspecificallytargetbonestrength.Bonesare23%sodiumandthesefoodsare23%sodium.Ifyoudon’thave enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thusmaking themweak.Thesefoodsreplenishtheskeletalneedsofthebody.Avocadoes,EggplantandPearstargetthehealthandfunctionofthewombandcervixof

thefemale-theylookjustliketheseorgans.Today’sresearchshowsthatwhenawomaneats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, andpreventscervicalcancers.Andhowprofoundisthis?It takesexactlynine(9)monthstogrowanavocadofromblossomtoripenedfruit.Thereareover14,000photolyticchemicalconstituentsofnutritionineachoneofthesefoods(modernsciencehasonlystudiedandnamedabout141ofthem).Figsarefullofseedsandhangintwoswhentheygrow.FigsincreasethemobilityofmalespermandincreasethenumbersofSpermaswelltoovercomemalesterility.Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index ofdiabetics.OlivesassistthehealthandfunctionoftheovariesOranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like themammary glands of thefemaleandactuallyassistthehealthofthebreastsandthemovementoflymphinandoutofthebreasts.Onions look like the body’s cells. Today’s research shows onions help clear wastematerials fromallof thebodycells.Theyevenproduce tearswhichwash theepitheliallayersoftheeyes.Aworkingcompanion,Garlic,alsohelpseliminatewastematerialsanddangerousfreeradicalsfromthebody.AuthorunknownOtherbooksbyMarthaPhilbeck.IfyoulikethisoneyoucanorderthesefromAmazon.com