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5 Burrito Recipes That'll Make You Love Wraps for Lunch

5 Burrito Recipes That'll Make You Love Wraps for Lunch

Burrito recipes
Photo by Nishant Aneja from Pexels

There's a lot to love about a good old burrito – from whipping it up within minutes to carrying it around wherever you want. But perhaps its most noteworthy quality is that you can fill it up with pretty much anything, from meat to veggies. So, if you've been looking for ways to make lunchtime a tad more exciting, burritos should be at the top of your list. And since National Burrito Day(1) (April 7th) is right around the corner, we've rounded up five exciting burrito recipes to take lunchtime to a whole new level. So, are you ready to give soggy salads a rest?

1. Cheesy Bacon Burrito

Cheese and bacon are a classic (and often unexciting) combination. But this burrito recipe gives the tried-and-true combo a much-needed makeover as the ingredients share tortilla space with tomato salsa and fluffy eggs. The wrap is also super satisfying and will keep you full for hours.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. In a small bowl, add the bacon along with ¼ cup of warm water and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain the bacon bits in a colander and squeeze away excess liquid by slightly squeezing them with the back of a spoon. Then, add the olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium-low heat. Sautée the bacon for 3-4 minutes or until it's slightly charred. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Crack the eggs, mix in the milk and pour the batter in the same skillet. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the batter is cooked through. Set aside.
  3. Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds and layer the eggs, tomato salsa, and bacon. Wrap tightly and toast the burritos in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to crisp them up. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. Sweet Potato & Beef Burrito

While most wraps rely on meat to add richness to the mix, this burrito recipe uses the protein as a sidekick. Instead, it depends more on carbs (a.k.a. sweet potato) for flavor and calls for capers and sun-dried tomatoes for some good (zingy) measure.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the potatoes and beef to a bowl along with 3 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. Add the olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium-low heat. Sautée the potatoes and beef for 10 minutes or until fork-tender. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and remove from heat. Mash the mixture with the back of a fork until the potatoes are coarsely pureed.
  3. (Optional Step) Add the sun-dried tomatoes to a blender and blitz until you have a thick paste. Mix in the potato-beef mixture.
  4. Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds and layer the potato-beef mash, capers, and sour cream. Wrap tightly and toast the burritos in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to crisp them up. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. Chicken & Broccoli Burrito

Textured Soy Protein (TSP) chicken and broccoli are the stars of this burrito. But the recipe also calls for other delicious ingredients (see sour cream and mozzarella), which make the dish far more indulgent. For a lighter take on the treat, you can sub sour cream for plain yogurt or low-fat cream cheese.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the broccoli and chicken bits to a bowl along with 3 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Sautée the chicken bits and broccoli for 12 minutes or until fork-tender. Set aside.
  3. Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds and layer the chicken-broccoli mix, mozzarella cheese, and sour cream. Wrap tightly and toast the burritos in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to crisp them up. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

4. Pizza Burrito

Wrapped in a flour tortilla and stuffed with tomato sauce, cheese, and sausage, this burrito recipe combines two beloved take-out treats in one delicious meal. When you feel like trying something new, you can easily swap sausage for bacon.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the sausage bits to a bowl along with 2 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium-low heat. Cook the beef for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper and stir in the cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts. Make sure to stir continuously so that the mixture doesn't stick to the bottom of the skillet.
  3. Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds and layer the tomato sauce and sausage-cheese mixture. Top with some extra cheese, if desired. Wrap tightly and toast the burritos in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to crisp them up. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

5. Mushroom & Blue Cheese Burrito

In this rich vegetarian take, burritos swap meat for mushrooms, which pair great with a savory blend of blue cheese and garlic. The cheese also adds a salty/tangy flavor to the mix, making the wrap even more irresistible.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the mushrooms to a bowl along with 2 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, add the beans to a pot and fill it with water until covered. Cook on medium-low for 30 minutes or until fork-tender. Remove from the water and set aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat and pour in the milk. Stir in the flour and keep stirring for 3-4 minutes. Add the blue cheese and mushrooms and cook for 2 more minutes or until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic; remove from the heat; and set aside.
  4. Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds and fill them with the mushroom-blue cheese mixture. Wrap tightly and toast the burritos in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to crisp them up. Serve immediately.

So, are you looking forward to National Burrito Day? Which burrito recipes will you make for the occasion? Let us know in the comment section down below!

References:

  1. https://nationaltoday.com/national-burrito-day/
  2. https://thaicaliente.com/bacon-egg-and-cheese-burritos/
  3. https://hurrythefoodup.com/sweet-potato-burritos/
  4. https://chefjulieyoon.com/2011/10/chicken-and-broccoli-burrito/#recipe
  5. https://momswhosave.com/pizza-burritos
  6. https://laantojadera.com/en/receta/snack/mushroom_burrito_with_cheese/465
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6 Delicious Must-Try Peanut Butter Recipes for the Peanut Butter Lovers' Day

6 Delicious Must-Try Peanut Butter Recipes for the Peanut Butter Lovers' Day

peanut butter recipes
Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV from Pexels

Without a doubt, every household in the United States has a jar of peanut butter, and with good reason.

The nutty goodness is nutritious, tasty, and versatile. When mixed with bananas, apples, or crackers, it makes an irresistible healthy snack. You can enjoy a peanut butter smoothie for breakfast, a tasty peanut butter sandwich for lunch, peanut sauce for dinner, and peanut butter ice cream for dessert. It is also an excellent spread for bread.

Smooth and crunchy peanut butter are both available on the market. Choose the type that matches your preference.

History of the National Peanut Butter Lover's Day

According to one theory regarding the origin of peanut butter, Rose Davis, a US citizen, began creating peanut butter in the 1840s after her son saw Cuban women grind peanuts to produce a paste that they spread on toast.1

In 1884, Marcellus Gilmore Edson was the first to patent a peanut butter paste. Beech-Nut, the first peanut brand, became the first big brand to manufacture and sell peanut butter in 1904. In 1922, Joseph Rosenfield devised a method for making smooth peanut butter with no need to stir that prevented the ingredients from separating.1

How to Celebrate National Peanut Butter Lover's Day Activities

National Peanut Butter Lover's Day is on March 1. In honor of the peanut butter lovers in your life, here are six quick and easy peanut butter recipes that you can make.

Pineapple and Peanut Butter Smoothie2

Smoothies are ideal for breakfast, a quick snack, or a takeaway meal. This pineapple and peanut butter recipe is filling and delicious and takes about ten minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups freeze dried pineapples
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup smooth peanut butter
  • ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 ice cubes

Directions

  1. Pour all ingredients into a blender.
  2. Blend until you achieve your desired consistency.

Sweet potato, peanut butter, & chili quesadillas3

Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients. When added to this peanut butter recipe, it boosts the nutrient profile and adds flavor. This vegan recipe is easy and fun to make.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups freeze dried sweet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large ripe avocado
  • ½ lime, zested and juiced, plus wedges to serve
  • 2 tablespoon crunchy peanut butter
  • 4 small flour tortillas
  • Chili sauce, to taste
  • ½ small pack coriander, torn

Direction

  1. Rehydrate the freeze dried sweet potatoes by mixing with two parts water. Add paprika and mash. Set it aside.
  2. Combine avocado, lime juice, and zest in a mixing bowl. Mash with a fork until smooth. Season to your taste.
  3. Combine the peanut butter and one tablespoon of olive oil in a separate mixing bowl.
  4. Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Brush each tortilla with oil and place the oiled side on the pan.
  5. Spread part of the peanut butter mix, the sweet potatoes mash, chili sauce, and coriander. Then, top with the other tortilla and oil it on the top side. Cook for about 2 minutes as you press it down until crisp. Repeat with the remaining tortilla
  6. Once ready, cut the quesadilla into quarters. Serve with avocado and lime wedges.

Peanut Butter Zucchini Bread4

This peanut butter recipe helps you add more veggies to your diet. Even better, your kids will never guess that the bread contains zucchini. Plus, it just takes an hour to prepare.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried zucchini
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 ½ cups flour
  • 1/8 cup canola oil
  • 1 cup peanut butter baking chips
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt to taste
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

Topping:

  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 1 tablespoon soft butter

Direction

  1. Mix the peanut butter, sugar, eggs, zucchini, oil, and peanut chips in a bowl.
  2. Combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and soda in a separate mixing bowl.
  3. Pour the peanut butter mixture into the flour mix and combine to make batter.
  4. Mix the brown sugar, butter, and flour until crumbly to make the topping.
  5. Prepare two bread baking pans. Evenly pour the batter into the two pans. Sprinkle the topping evenly into the two pans.
  6. Bake at 325°F for an hour.

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothies5

Bananas are a great ingredient in healthy smoothies. They are rich in vitamins and minerals and improve your digestive health. Freeze dried bananas reduce the preparation time when making this smoothie. Add some ice cubes to make the texture frosty. This peanut butter recipe takes just 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rehydrate the freeze dried bananas and pineapples.
  2. Pour them into the blender and add ice cubes and soy milk. Blend for a few minutes to crush the ice cubes.
  3. Add the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth
  4. Garnish with chopped peanuts. Serve immediately

Banana Berry Peanut Butter Broccoli Smoothie6

Most green recipes use kale or spinach, but have you ever added broccoli to a smoothie? This broccoli and peanut butter recipe is a smart way to add healthy veggies to your diet. The smoothie is filling and delicious. The banana, strawberries, and peanut mask the taste of broccoli. You kid will keep asking for more and won't tell that you've added broccoli.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rehydrate the freeze dried broccoli, banana, and strawberries. Pour into a blender.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients to the blender.
  3. Blend until smooth.
  4. Serve right away.

Peanut Butter Strawberry Pineapple Smoothie7

Smoothies are easy to add healthy fats from peanut butter and keep you full for hours. Satisfy your peanut butter craving with this peanut butter recipe.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rehydrate the strawberries and pineapple by adding to two parts water. Pour in the blender
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.
  3. Pour into a tall glass, add a straw and enjoy!
  4. You can add ice cubes if you wish.

There you have it, six easy-peasy recipes that's every peanut butter lover's dream come true. Check our website for freeze dried strawberries, bananas, sweet potatoes, zucchini, pineapples, and broccoli that are must have ingredients for these peanut butter recipes.

References

  1. https://nationaltoday.com/national-peanut-butter-lovers-day/
  2. https://www.justapinch.com/recipes/drink/drink-smoothie/pineapple-and-peanut-butter-smoothie.html
  3. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/sweet-potato-peanut-butter-chilli-quesadillas
  4. https://www.tastesoflizzyt.com/peanut-butter-zucchini-bread-brown-sugar-streusel/
  5. https://www.thespruceeats.com/peanut-butter-banana-smoothie-recipe-2097140
  6. https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.popsugar.com/fitness/Smoothie-Broccoli-Banana-Peanut-Butter-Recipe-21871052/amp
https://cowboyslifeblog.com/peanut-smoothie/
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4 Amazing Pie Recipes to Celebrate the National Pi Day

4 Amazing Pie Recipes to Celebrate the National Pi Day

pie recipes
Photo by Oleg Magni from Pexels

March 14 is an annual commemoration of National Pi Day. It celebrates the history of the mystical number 3.14. Pi is an infinite mathematical concept that may be difficult to grasp but significant in many aspects of our lives. 

The best part is that the day does not only celebrate Pi, but also pie. The mathematical concept and the scrumptious dessert are celebrated on the same day because they sound the same. Also, since Pi is a constant measurement in all circles, and pies are round, it's only natural that they're both commemorated on this day with pie recipes.

History of National Pi Day

The history of the National Pi Day is directly linked to the number itself.  Pi is an ancient concept, and many cultures have tried to capture this mysterious number in mathematics. Ancient mathematical cultures could only decode it to the seventh decimal; whereas, revered Indian mathematicians at the time could only interpret Pi up to five.

The Exploratorium Museum of Science, Art, and Human Perception in San Francisco launched the first celebration of National Pi Day in 1988. After that, the US Congress declared the day a holiday in 2009. Currently, the day is recognized worldwide by teachers, students, mathematicians, and pie lovers. 

How to Celebrate National Pi Day

The greatest way to celebrate National Pi Day is to eat a lot of pie - given that Pi is a number that describes a circle and pretty much everything in the universe.

It's the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your baking prowess.  Make pie recipes ahead of time and share them with your friends, family, and coworkers. You can also host a pie baking contest with your friends and award the winner. Take a look at these four pie recipes for some inspiration, and be sure to bag the reward. 

Leek & Mushroom Pie Recipe2

You can make this leek and mushroom pie from scratch or from leftover roast chicken. This pie recipe yields six pies and may take extra effort, but it is worth it when you have guests.

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cups dried leeks
  • 1 thyme sprig
  • 1 cup freeze dried mushrooms
  • 2 cups skinless chicken thighs chunks
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • white wine (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup double cream
  • Juice of one lemon

Direction

  1. Fry the leeks and the thyme with butter on a saucepan for 8 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook for 5 more minutes.
  2. Increase the heat. Add the chicken and stir until it browns.
  3. Sprinkle the flour and stir to form a paste. Let it cook for additional 2 minutes.
  4. Add the wine and simmer for a minute. Then, add the stock, cream, and lemon juice, season, and simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is well cooked.
  5. Set it aside to cool, then put it in the refrigerator to chill if you're not eating the pie the same day.
  6. To make the pie, pour the filling into an unbaked pie crust.
  7. Bake at 325°F for about 45 minutes.

Sweet Potato Pie3

This sweet potato pie recipe is nothing like you've had before.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups freeze dried sweet potatoes
  • 1 unbaked pie crust
  • ½ cup butter softened
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Rehydrate the sweet potato by adding to two parts of water.
  2. Mash the sweet potato in a mixing bowl. Add butter and mix until well combined.
  3. Add in sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, milk and combine all the ingredients with a mixer until smooth. Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg and stir.
  4. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
  5. Bake at 325°F for about an hour. To check if it's ready, insert a knife and ensure it comes out clean. Enjoy.

Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie4

Apart from making this pie recipe during National Pi Day, make it for a birthday celebration instead of a cake. Brush the pie crust with egg white glaze to prevent the crust from getting soggy.

Ingredients

  • 1 refrigerated pie crust
  • 4 cups sliced freeze dried strawberries
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 ounces strawberry gelatin
  • 1 cup water
  • Whipped cream, optional

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
  2. Place the pie crust into a pie plate and trim the edges. Cover with foil and bake for about 5 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 5 more minutes. Let it cool on a wire rack.
  3. Meanwhile, mix the sugar, cornstarch, and water to make a paste. Boil the mixture until it thickens for about 2 minutes.
  4. Turn off the heat. Add the gelatin and stir until it dissolves. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to cool.
  5. Arrange the sliced strawberries on the crust. Pour the gelatin and cornstarch mixture over the berries. Refrigerate for a few minutes to set before serving.
  6. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Chocolate Raspberry Pie5

This recipe will make you a winner in a pie contest. The cheesy filling combined with the raspberry is magical and unforgettable.

Ingredients

Filling:

  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup sugar

Topping:

  • 2 ounces semisweet chocolate
  • 3 tablespoons butter

Directions

  • Roll the dough on a floured surface, then transfer it to a pie plate. Trim the edges, then refrigerate for 25 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 450°F. Bake the pie crust until golden brown. Set it aside on a wire rack to cool.
  • Combine the sugar and cornstarch, and raspberries. Heat over medium heat. Let it boil for two minutes. Turn off the heat. Pour the filling on the crust
  • Combine cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a mixer until fluffy. Fold in the whipped cream. Then pour over the raspberry mixture on the crust. Refrigerate for an hour.
  • Melt the butter and chocolate and combine until smooth. Once it cools, pour over the filling. Cover and refrigerate again for about two hours.

Tell ten people to choose a dessert in the absence of ice cream, and more than half of them will go for a cake or pie. And all of them would eat their pie with ice cream.

It's time to get those baking tins out and try these fantastic pie recipes on National Pi Day. Did you try these recipes? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Don't forget to buy our freeze dried sweet potatoes, raspberries, mushrooms, and strawberries. The pie recipes will be incomplete without them.

References

  1. https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/pi-day/
  2. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/chicken-leek-mushroom-pies
  3. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/12142/sweet-potato-pie-i/
  4. https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/easy-fresh-strawberry-pie/
  5. https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/chocolate-raspberry-pie/
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5 Cocktail Recipes Perfect for Galentine's Day

5 Cocktail Recipes Perfect for Galentine's Day

Galentine's Day
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Whether you're single, in a relationship, or somewhere in between, one thing is for sure: You'd be lost without your bestie. So, while February is an ode to Valentine's Day, this year you might want to make some room for another important holiday, Galentine's Day.

Celebrating all things BFFs, this holiday is your chance to show your best friends that they're loved and appreciated. And the best way to do that? With yummy drinks and fun games! So, before you start planning a romantic date night in for your S.O., check out these fun cocktail recipes (and their matching activities) that'll bring a smile to your GFFs' faces.

But First, What IS Galentine's Day?

Celebrated on February 13th (just a day before Valentine's Day), Galentine's Day(1) celebrates friendship in all its forms. It was created by Amy Poehler's fictional character, Leslie Knope, on the popular TV show Parks & Recreation.

And yes, you won't see it popping up in your calendar as it's not an "official" holiday. But in the few years since Leslie introduced us to its concept, Galentine's Day has turned from a TV show stint into a V-Day-caliber celebration. Because, honestly, friends are often there for us when partners can't be.

5 Cocktail Recipes to Sip on Galentine's Day

1. Strawberry Margarita

Colorful and sweet, this vividly pink cocktail is like Galentine's Day in a glass. Thanks to its short ingredient list, it's also very easy to make. So, you can readily make a second batch if the first one runs out quickly. PS: It will!

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the strawberries and 4 cups of warm water to a bowl. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and transfer to a blender.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and pulse until the cocktail is smooth.
  3. Add the salt to a shallow dish (wider than your serving glasses). Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass and dip it into the salt upside-down.
  4. Fill each glass halfway with ice and pour the margarita. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Matching Activity: Do a YouTube Challenge

With tequila giving you a major confidence boost, Galentine's Day is the chance to recreate all your favorite YouTube challenges. From the 100-layer challenge to the no-mirror make-up challenge, you and your gals can pick a theme that you all find entertaining and film your attempts as you go. Although the videos won't be YouTube-worthy, you'll definitely get a kick every time you look back at them.

2. Champagne & Raspberry Ice Cream Floats

Bringing two of our favorite ingredients together (champagne and ice cream), this bubbly cocktail is the stuff of dreams. As the ice cream melts into the champagne, it creates a frothy top that you can either sip on or scoop with a spoon. Your choice!

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of champagne
  • 2 ½ cups vanilla ice cream
  • 1 cup freeze dried raspberries
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Add the raspberries to a small bowl along with 2 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. Transfer the raspberries to a saucepan and stir in the sugar. Mash the berries to release their juices and turn the heat to medium. Cook until the mixture is mostly smooth and stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Remove the sauce from the heat and press the berries through a mesh strainer to remove the pulp and seeds. Let the sauce cool completely.
  4. Pour two teaspoons of the sauce in champagne flutes, add a scoop of ice cream (or two), and top off with champagne. Serve immediately.

Matching Activity: Curl Up with a #Girlboss Movie

Galentine's Day is all about showing your love and support to your favorite ladies. So, if you'd like to give your besties' a little nudge, stream a good girl-boss movie. You can go old-school with "Legally Blonde" or redefine 21st-century feminism with "The Intern."

3. Chocolate White Russian

The grown-up version of chocolate milk, this cocktail drink is perfect for the Galentine who can't say no to dessert. You can ask your fave ladies to supply the booze or their favorite kind of chocolate (dark, milk, ruby) for topping the drink.

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup vodka
  • 3 tbsp Kahlua
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
  • Chocolate shavings, optional

Directions:

  1. Fill a low-ball glass with ice and drizzle with the chocolate syrup.
  2. Add the vodka, Kahlua, and cream and give the cocktail a good stir. Top with chocolate shavings (optional) and serve immediately.

Matching Activity: Slumber Party

Delicious brownies? Check! A "chocolate milk" for adults only? Check! Lots of fun indoor activities to remind you of simpler times? Check! So, since you got all the fixings, why not throw a slumber party for Galentine's Day? You can finally catch up with your friends, try different face masks, or even play a few board games (we can't recommend the Mystery Date Game).

4. Blueberry Lavender Sangria

Floral and elegant, this cocktail is a far cry from the pink/red beverages you'll see everywhere on the next day (a.k.a. Valentine's Day). So, consider this sangria a breath of fresh air that'll make you and your squad feel extra special on this amazing day.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the blueberries to a small bowl along with ¼ cup of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. Combine ½ cup of water, sugar, and lavender extract in a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and strain into a jar. Store in the fridge.
  3. To make the sangria, pour the Prosecco into a pitcher. Stir in the blueberries and the lavender syrup and stir gently. Serve in a glass filled with ice.

Matching Activity: One-Night Book Club

If you and your friends are avid bibliophiles, there's no better way to enjoy this fancy sangria than with a good book. And since this is a one-night-only book club, you'd be better pick a relatively short book. This way, you'll have enough time to read/discuss the book and catch up on your news.

5. Grapefruit Gin & Tonic

If you're looking for something subtle that'll still hit home with your gals, this fruity cocktail is the way to go. Light and sweet, it's perfect for a casual get-together at home.

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup gin
  • 2/3 cup grapefruit juice
  • ½ cup tonic water
  • Sprig of rosemary, for garnishing (optional)

Directions:

  1. Fill a glass with ice. Add the gin, tonic, and grapefruit juice. Stir well to combine. Top with a sprig of rosemary (optional step) and serve immediately.

Matching Activity: Listen to Old Records

Sometimes keeping things simple is the best strategy. And if this is how you want to celebrate Galentine's Day, bust out your old records (or cassettes) and listen to the tunes you did as a kid/teen. This trip down memory lane will sure spark some of your memories from back in the day or make you share stories that your friend knows nothing about. Talk about a cool way to bond even more with your gals!

How will you celebrate Galentine's Day? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

  1. https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a26052713/galentines-day/
  2. https://www.culinaryhill.com/strawberry-margarita-recipe/
  3. https://reciperunner.com/champagne-raspberry-ice-cream-floats/#mv-creation-312
  4. https://basilandbubbly.com/chocolate-white-russian/
  5. https://livelytable.com/blueberry-lavender-sangria/
  6. https://foodwithfeeling.com/grapefruit-gin-tonic/
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5 Chili Recipes to Get Creative With

5 Chili Recipes to Get Creative With

chili recipes
Photo by Markus Spiske from Pexels

Let's be honest: Chili can be a controversial subject. And that's because some cooks swear by meat, while others believe legumes are the only way to make the dish shine. In some cases, cooks even add their own twists to make chili pop, whether that's a shot of beer, a tablespoon of soy sauce, or a dollop of peanut butter (ps: don't knock it 'till you try it!).

But no matter which way you see it, this cold weather classic is synonymous with experimentation, and National Chili Day(1) (February 24th) is the perfect excuse to get creative with your batch. So, if you're looking for ways to spice up your weeknight meals, these five chili recipes will allow you to experiment with the dish, whether you want to stick to the basics or go the extra mile.

1. Classic Chili

Using both meat and beans, this chili recipe will satisfy everyone you serve it to. It's also very simple to make and calls for bare bones ingredients. This means it's perfect for a weekday when time is scarce, and you need something to hit the spot ASAP. Pair it with some nachos or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, add the beans and 2 cups of water. Transfer to a pot, fill with water and cook until fork-tender (about 20 minutes). Remove from the water and set aside.
  2. Add the beef bits and 3 cups of water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Remove excess liquid and set aside.
  3. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Sautée the onion for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the beef and cook for 6-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the sugar, cumin, garlic, chili powder, and tomato paste and sautée for a while longer (1-2 minutes).
  5. Add the broth, tomato sauce, and beans to the pot and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and bring the chili to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and serve.

2. Black Bean & Corn Chili

Contrary to popular belief, you don't always need meat to make chili taste good – and this recipe proves just that. Made with black beans, it's just as filling as its meaty counterparts and slightly more crunchy thanks to the corn. For a spicy kick, add a little bit of jalapeno.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, add the beans and 2 cups of water. Transfer to a pot, fill with water and cook until fork-tender (about 20 minutes). Remove from the water and set aside.
  2. Add the corn to a bowl along with 1 cup of warm water and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  3. In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sautée the mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the remaining ingredients, reduce the heat to low, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and serve.
  4. (Optional Step) To thicken the chili, remove 1 cup of the soup and pulse in a food processor. Transfer back to the pot and stir.

3. Meaty Mushroom Chili

For those days when you feel like indulging (but don't care for all the meat), this easy chili recipe is the way to go. Swapping mushrooms for meat, it's slightly less heavy than most chilis but just as tasty. Plus, it comes together in a slow cooker, which is always a bonus.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, add the beans and 4 cups of water. Transfer to a pot, fill with water and cook until fork-tender (about 20 minutes). Remove from the water and set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a small skillet. Sautée the onion for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Add all the remaining ingredients to the instant pot (except for the corn) and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
  4. Release the pressure, stir in the corn, and cook for another 3 minutes. Top with grated cheese and serve immediately.

4. Thai-Style Chicken Chili

Inspired by Thai cuisine and its flavors, this chili recipe is on the fancier side. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a shot. In fact, it's super easy to follow and calls for simple ingredients - which means you don't have to stock up on anything exotic (or, to put it simply, expensive).

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the beans and chickpeas to a bowl along with 3 cups of water and transfer to a pot and cook until fork-tender (about 20 minutes). Strain and set aside.
  2. Add the chicken to a bowl along with 3 cups of warm water and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  3. Add the vegetable oil to a large pot and heat over medium heat. Sautée the chicken for 4-5 minutes or until it's lightly brown. Stir in the onion and sautée for another 3 minutes.
  4. Then, add all the remaining ingredients, reduce the heat to low, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through. Remove from the heat and serve.

5. Beer Chili

Perfect for games days (or simply when you want to switch things up for dinner), this beer chili is a definite crowd-pleaser. While several types of ale can do the trick, we'd encourage you to opt for stout beer as its rich, malty flavor pairs excellent with beef.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the beans to a bowl along with 3 cups of water and bring the water to a boil and cook the beans until fork-tender (about 20 minutes). Strain and set aside.
  2. In another bowl, add the beef bits and 4 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  3. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sautée the onions for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the cayenne pepper, cumin, and garlic and sautée for one more minute.
  4. Add the beef and cook for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Stir occasionally so that the meat doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
  5. Mix in the tomatoes and beans and bring to a simmer. Stir in the beer and molasses, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the chili thickens. Remove from the heat and serve.

Which of these chili recipes intrigued you the most? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

  1. https://nationaltoday.com/national-chili-day/
  2. https://www.thewholesomedish.com/the-best-classic-chili/
  3. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/22924/black-bean-chili/
  4. https://recipes.instantpot.com/recipe/black-bean-mushroom-chili/
  5. https://lifemadesimplebakes.com/thai-chili-6/#wprm-recipe-container-32241
  6. https://tasteandsee.com/stout-beer-chili/

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5 Gravy Recipes That’ll Make Your Holiday Roasts Taste Special

5 Gravy Recipes That’ll Make Your Holiday Roasts Taste Special

gravy recipes
Photo by Emanuel Ekström on Unsplash

December is finally here! And between those family potlucks, festive soirees, or a small get together with friends, chances are you'll need to roast a turkey/ham/meatloaf or two. And yes, pot roasts can be delicious on their own. But just a splash of gravy can take them to a whole new level. So, if you want to elevate your roasts (or even your side dishes) this year, the following gravy recipes are definitely worth the try.

1. Onion Gravy

This gravy recipe will be your new gold standard – for good reason! You see, despite its complex (almost restaurant-worthy) flavor, the sauce is very simple to make. In fact, all you need to do is add the ingredients to a saucepan and simmer to perfection. Who said making gravy was a hassle?

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (plus 2 tbsp)
  • 2 cups dried onions
  • 2 ½ cups beef stock
  • ¼ cup red wine
  • ½ tsp mustard powder
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1½ tsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Add the onions to a bowl along with 4 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter (minus the 2 tablespoons) over medium heat. Add the onions and the sugar, turn the heat to low, and cook until the onions are caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
  3. Add the wine and thyme, turn the heat back to medium, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Then, add the stock, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce and reduce the heat to low. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to your taste and simmer for 20 minutes.
  5. Stir in the vinegar and cornstarch and simmer for a couple of minutes or until the gravy has thickened. Keep stirring during this step to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
  6. Whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until it's dissolved. Remove from the heat, let cool for a while, and serve.

Best paired with: Beef, pork, or lamb roast.

2. Mushroom Gravy

A great source of umami, the mushrooms in this gravy will boost the flavors of your roast, especially if we're talking about a turkey. To spare yourself the workload, you can prep the gravy a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the mushrooms and onions to a bowl along with 3 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, onions, thyme, and garlic and sauté for 5-6 minutes or until the mushrooms are nicely browned.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Add the stock, stir, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until the gravy thickens.
  4. Remove from the heat, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Best paired with: Turkey, beef, or pork roast.

3. Cherry Gravy

An unexpected twist on the classic sauce, this gravy recipe uses cherries' sweetness to add a kick to your roasts and side dishes (hello, mashed potatoes!). It also doesn't hurt that it requires just 5 ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to make.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup frozen cherries
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2/3 red wine
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, add the cherries along with 2 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. Add the vinegar and sugar to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until you have a sticky caramel-like sauce.
  3. Pour in the stock and the wine and keep simmering for 20-25 minutes or until the gravy has reduced by 2/3.
  4. Then, add the cherries and simmer gently for a couple of minutes more.
  5. Remove from the heat, season with salt and pepper, puree with an immersion blender and serve.

Best paired with: Duck, chicken, or pork roast.

4. Apple Gravy

From salads to pancakes, apples can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But just as we thought we cooked with the fruit in any way possible, we came across this gravy recipe. The dressing proves there's yet another way to enjoy apples, and this time (not next to) with your holiday roast.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the apples and onions to a bowl along with 2 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sautée the apples, onion, garlic, and thyme for 15 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. Pour in the stock and simmer for 10 more minutes.
  4. Whisk in the cornstarch and stir until the gravy has thickened.
  5. Remove from the heat, season with salt and pepper, puree with an immersion blender and serve.

Best paired with: Chicken, turkey, duck, or pork roast.

5. Blueberry Sage Gravy

Perfect for a holiday roast with a gourmet twist, this gravy is so aromatic. It'll put your whole house into a festive mood. The blueberries will also add a pop of color to your main dish - making your food not only taste but look good, too.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Add the blueberries to a bowl along with 2 cups of warm water. Soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, squeeze away excess liquid and set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the dried onions and garlic and sauté for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
  3. Pour in the wine and sugar, turn the heat to high, and simmer until the gravy has reduced by half.
  4. Add the stock and cook for another 10 minutes.
  5. Whisk in the cornstarch and stir until the mixture thickens.
  6. Remove from the heat, season with salt and pepper, puree with an immersion blender and serve.

Best paired with: Duck, beef, or pork roast.

Which of these innovative gravy recipes would you like to try out this year? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

  1. https://www.daringgourmet.com/onion-gravy/
  2. https://www.countrysidecravings.com/easy-mushroom-gravy/
  3. https://www.gressinghamduck.co.uk/recipes/cherry-red-wine-sauce/
  4. https://www.countrygrocer.com/recipe/roasted-apple-onion-chicken-gravy/
  5. https://www.deliciousliving.com/old-nh360/food-and-beverage/blackberry-sage-sauce/
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