Showing posts with label Recipes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Recipes. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Homemade Buttermilk Biscuit Recipe

 Store-bought biscuits may be convenient, but they will never match the flavor and texture of fresh, homemade biscuits. Plus making your own homemade biscuits is surprisingly easy and quick.

Homemade Buttermilk Biscuit Recipe
Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits-Reviewed

Last week, Fran and I made delicious beef stew. This hearty beef stew was perfect for a cold day. I love having something to dip into my beef stew so, I decided to make some homemade buttermilk biscuits. 

By the way, you can find our beef stew recipe here: Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe.

The beef stew is fast and easy to make in the Instant Pot. It is the perfect comfort food on a cold winter day.

These buttermilk biscuits were a perfect addition to the beef stew, but are also great with butter or jam.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter (I used salted butter) cold. If you use unsalted butter add a teaspoon of salt to dry ingredients.
  • 1/2 cup Crisco vegetable shortening cold
  • 1 1/4 cups buttermilk cold

Instructions:

  1. Combine the flour and baking powder in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the cold butter and Crisco and cut in using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add the cold buttermilk and mix it with a spatula until the dough comes together.
  4. Now, work the dough with your hands on a lightly floured surface. The dough will be a bit sticky.
  5. I rolled the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick. You can make them thicker if you like or get nice flakey layers by rolling them out thin and folding them over.
  6. I don't have a 3-inch biscuit cutter, so I used a 3-inch drinking glass to cut them out.
  7. Place them on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Or a greased cookie sheet.
  8. Bake on the center rack at 475 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown.

Biscuits Ready for the oven

Here are my buttermilk biscuits, ready for the oven. They were so easy to make and perfect for our beef stew.

This is a great kitchen tool for cutting cold ingredients into dry ingredients, it makes to work so much easier.

Urbanstrive Large Pastry Cutter Tool, Top Professional Pastry Blender Stainless Steel, Heavy Duty Dough Blender, Dishwasher Safe Baking Supplies Baking Tools, BlackUrbanstrive Large Pastry Cutter Tool, Top Professional Pastry Blender Stainless Steel, Heavy Duty Dough Blender, Dishwasher Safe Baking Supplies Baking Tools, BlackCheck the Price

 




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Wednesday, January 29, 2025

The Best Tasting, Healthy, High Protein Hot Chocolate

I love hot chocolate, especially during the cold winter months. Unfortunately, most hot chocolate and hot cocoa mixes on the market either don't taste great or are high in sugar and other ingredients I'd prefer to avoid. I have shared my delicious The Ultimate Keto Hot Chocolate Recipe here on Review This Reviews, but it takes a bit of time to prepare and sometimes I just want something quick and easy.

As we age, it's also increasingly important to prioritize protein in our diets. Grass-fed bone broth is a wonderful way to get more high-quality protein, but let's face it, it doesn't hit the spot when what we're really craving is some yummy hot chocolate!

When I first heard of chocolate bone broth, the idea was a real turn-off. When I finally tried it, it tasted a lot better than I expected....but definitely not good enough to substitute for hot chocolate.

Eventually, I came up with the idea of mixing grass-fed chocolate bone broth and grass-fed chocolate collagen peptides with hot milk (I usually use almond, cashew, or macadamia milk), which gave the drink a much creamier, more luscious mouthfeel and smoother, richer flavor. 

Today I'm sharing not only my quick and easy recipe for this delicious high protein hot chocolate, but also the many benefits of drinking bone broth and collagen peptides with added MCT oil. Enjoy!

The Best Healthy, Delicious, High Protein Hot Chocolate
Grass-fed chocolate bone broth and collagen peptides combine with hot nut milk of your choice to create a delicious, nutritious, creamy hot chocolate high in protein and other benefits.

A High Protein Hot Chocolate That’s Healthy, Delicious, and Nutritious

Nothing beats the cozy comfort of a hot chocolate on a chilly day. But what if your favorite indulgence could be transformed into a nutrient-packed powerhouse that supports your health, beauty, and energy levels? With this High Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe, you can enjoy the creamy, decadent flavors of chocolate and mint while nourishing your body from the inside out.

This drink combines Paleovalley Chocolate Bone Broth Protein, Perfect Keto Mint Chocolate Collagen Peptides & MCT Brain Boost, the hot milk of your choice (I use nut milk), and optional sweeteners and flavor enhancers (I use either liquid allulose and extracts or monk fruit based flavoring syrups). 

The result? A guilt-free, delicious treat that’s as functional as it is tasty.

Why Make This High Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe?

I chose each ingredient in this recipe not only for its taste but also for its compelling health benefits. Here’s what makes this delicious drink a game-changer for your wellness routine:

1. Paleovalley Chocolate Bone Broth Protein

Bone broth is celebrated for its nutrient density, and Paleovalley’s Chocolate Bone Broth Protein delivers these benefits in a convenient, delicious form:

  • Collagen Support: Bone broth is a natural source of collagen, which promotes healthier, more youthful-looking skin, stronger hair, and resilient nails.
  • Gut Health: Rich in glycine and other amino acids, bone broth supports a healthy gut lining and improves digestion.
  • Clean Ingredients: Made from grass-fed, pasture-raised beef bones, it’s free of hormones, antibiotics, and unnecessary fillers.

2. Perfect Keto Chocolate or Mint Chocolate Collagen Peptides & MCT Brain Boost

This product combines two superfoods—collagen and MCT oil—for a double dose of health benefits:

  • Collagen Peptides: Helps improve skin elasticity, hydrate the skin, reduce wrinkles, and support joint and bone health.
  • MCT Oil: Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) provide clean, sustained energy and enhance mental clarity, making this drink an ideal choice for busy mornings or midday pick-me-ups.
I love chocolate and mint together, so I usually buy the mint chocolate collagen peptides, but chocolate collagen peptides can be flavored with extracts or flavoring syrups.

3. Nut Milk

Hot unsweetened nut milk like almond, coconut, cashew, or macadamia adds a velvety, creamy texture to the drink while keeping it dairy-free and low in calories. However, you can use hemp milk, dairy milk, or another type of milk, if you prefer.

4. Optional RxSugar Organic Allulose Liquid Sugar

I find I prefer a touch of added sweetness and RxSugar Organic Allulose Liquid Sugar is the perfect option.

  • Low-Calorie Sweetness: Allulose is a natural, plant-based sweetener with only 1 calorie per teaspoon. It tastes like sugar but doesn’t spike blood sugar levels, making it keto-friendly.
  • Zero Aftertaste: Unlike some sugar substitutes, RxSugar has no bitter aftertaste, keeping the focus on the chocolate and mint flavors.
  • Reduced Insulin Resistance: Studies suggest that allulose may help improve insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for managing blood sugar levels. 
  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Allulose may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation.

5. Optional Flavor Extract or Sugar-Free Flavoring Syrup of Choice

A few drops of peppermint extract elevate the flavor with a refreshing twist, reminiscent of holiday treats like peppermint bark or candy canes. It’s also great for digestion and calming the stomach. But any flavor extract you prefer can be added.

Another wonderful option is to use one of the Choczero Flavoring Syrups in your choice of flavor instead of the liquid allulose and flavor extract.

Key ingredients for high protein hot chocolate recipe

High Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients:

Optional sweeteners and flavorings: 

 OR 

  • 2 tsp. ChocZero Flavoring Syrup in flavor of choice (these flavored monk fruit-based syrups come in a wide range of wonderful flavors!)

Optional toppings: 

  • A sprinkle of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a dollop of whipped dairy or coconut cream

Instructions:

  1. Heat the milk in a small saucepan or microwave until it’s hot but not boiling.
  2. In a mug, add 1 scoop of Paleovalley Chocolate Bone Broth Protein and 1 scoop of Perfect Keto Chocolate Collagen or Perfect Keto Mint Chocolate Collagen.
  3. Stir in the hot milk and optional sweeteners and flavorings. Note: If using the ChocZero flavoring syrup, do not also use liquid allulose and extract.
  4. Stir vigorously or use an electric frother to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. (I've tried several and this is by far my favorite electric frother!)
  5. Optional: Add your favorite toppings, like a dusting of cocoa powder or a dollop of whipped coconut cream.

Sip, savor, and enjoy the indulgent flavors while reaping the health benefits!

High Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe - core ingredients on table

Summary of Health Benefits of This High Protein Hot Chocolate

This isn’t just a delicious drink—it’s a wellness elixir packed with benefits for your body and mind:

Supports Youthful Skin, Hair, and Nails

The collagen from both Paleovalley Chocolate Bone Broth and Perfect Keto Chocolate Collagen Peptides helps combat visible signs of aging by improving skin elasticity, hydrating the skin, and strengthening hair and nails.

Boosts Energy and Focus

The MCT oil provides quick, clean energy and enhances mental clarity, making this drink a perfect start to your day or an afternoon energy boost.

Improves Joint and Bone Health

The natural collagen and amino acids in bone broth help maintain strong, healthy joints and bones, which is especially beneficial as you age.

Promotes Gut Health

Bone broth’s glycine supports a healthy gut lining, while MCT oil aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.

Satisfies Cravings Without the Guilt

Rich in protein and healthy fats, this hot chocolate keeps you full and satisfied, curbing unhealthy cravings and preventing overeating.

Balances Blood Sugar

Thanks to the keto-friendly ingredients and optional RxSugar liquid allulose sweetener, this drink satisfies your sweet tooth without spiking blood sugar levels.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

Anyone looking to increase their protein intake easily and deliciously.

Anyone looking to support healthy, glowing skin and strong hair and nails.

Anyone seeking a nutritious, comforting drink that aligns with their health goals.

Anyone following a low card or keto lifestyle who wants a delicious, low-carb treat packed with protein and healthy fats.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Hot Chocolate is more than just a beverage—it’s a ritual of self-care. With its indulgent taste and impressive nutritional profile, it’s a delicious way to support your health while satisfying your chocolate cravings. Whether you’re curling up with a book on a chilly evening, looking for a mid-afternoon energy boost, or starting your day with a protein-packed drink, this recipe is the perfect choice.

Give it a try, and let this hot chocolate redefine how you think about indulgence and nutrition!


The Best Tasting, Healthy, High Protein Hot Chocolate by Margaret Schindel

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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Monday, January 13, 2025

Review Post Holiday Bark Recipe

Leftover Holiday Candy? Repurpose leftover holiday candy and nuts into yummy candy Bark with ease. So easy for any holiday or party any time of the year! Christmas, Halloween and Easter Holidays definitely produce a variety of candy (or sales to stock up!)

holiday bark


How To Make Holiday Candy Bark

Materials

Baking sheet

Parchment Paper

Glass bowl

Ingredients

Leftover Candy

Chocolate or White Chocolate melted, 1 bag of chips or 1-2 Bag of melts

Sprinkles optional.

How To Make

Prepare all the candy, nuts, decorations. Unwrap candy, chop nuts, chop candy if needed. 

Prepare the baking sheet with parchment paper. 

Melt the chips or melts in the microwave in a glass bowl or the bowl of your choice which is microwaveable. 

Microwave on high 1 minute and check. Use 30 second increments after the first minute. After each 30 sec check the chocolate and stir. Check if the chocolate is melted to a spreadable consistency.

With a spatula spread the chocolate mixture over the parchment paper. Thickness should be enough to cover the paper, about 1/4 inch thick.

Add the chopped or whole candy, nuts and sprinkles if desired. Randomly sprinkle over the chocolate mixture.

Freeze or put in refrigerator to set.

Break apart into triangles pieces. Store covered and can store in refrigerator if in danger of melting. 

Which Candy, Nuts, Raisins Work Well

There can be trial and error with choosing the best leftover candy. Chopping the candy into bite size pieces is helpful. Raisins, coconut and nuts can usually be used from the package. 

Leftover candy canes work well but should be chopped. 

Leftover Easter Bunnies work well but should be cut up into smaller pieces.

Chocolate can be testy when melted and each type of chocolate has its' own correct temp to melt. I have found using the microwave on high for 1 minute, check and stir, then in 30 second increments does work well.







Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Festive Peppermint Oreo Cookies

 These Peppermint Oreo cookies are a perfect fit for the Holiday Season or any time of the year. They are loaded with peppermint candy, crushed Oreo cookies, and chocolate chips.

Fran and our daughter, Jamie, made these cookies for the local village Women's Club, cookie exchange.

Festive Peppermint Oreo Cookies
Peppermint Oreo Cookies - Reviewed

The recipe below makes five dozen cookies; you can cut it in half if you don't want to make that many.

Peppermint Oreo Cookies Ingredients:

  • 1 cup butter (Cold and cut into cubes)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup crushed peppermint candy (We used peppermint candy canes crushed)
  • 16 Oreo Cookies chopped
Instructions:

  1. Cream the butter and brown sugar together. We used our KitchenAid Stand Mixer for this, but you can also use a hand mixer on medium speed.
  2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until it's fluffy.
  3. Add the white sugar and continue mixing making sure all ingredients are combined.
  4. Add the baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.  Then, add the flour one cup at a time. Mix until all is combined.
  5. Add the white and semi-sweet chocolate chips, almost all crushed peppermint candy, and Oreo cookies. (Reserve some of both for garnish before baking).
  6. Scoop the dough and roll it into about 1-inch or larger balls. Place them 2 inches apart on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Add additional Oreo, and peppermint pieces to the tops before baking.
  7. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set.
  8. Allow them to cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a rack to completely cool.

Cookies ready to bake

This photo is the size that Jamie rolled the cookie dough. It may be closer to 2-inch balls. The larger you make them the fewer cookies you going to yield.

Cooling on the rack
Peppermint Oreo cookies are cooling on the rack

These Peppermint Oreo cookies are a delight, they are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. We will certainly be adding this cookie recipe to our Holiday list this year.

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Friday, November 29, 2024

How to Decorate Cheesecake Reindeer Reviewed

Reindeer Cheesecake
Cheesecake is one of my favorite desserts to make.  When I saw the slices of cheesecake decorated like reindeer on the cover of the Kroger magazine last year, I knew what we would be making on Christmas Eve. 

A week or so before Christmas, I purchased the several types of chocolate covered pretzels for the antlers, spice drops, and eyes to use for decorating.  I made the cheesecake the day before and refrigerated it overnight so it would be firm and easy to decorate.

When my parents arrived, we pulled the cheesecake from the refrigerator, grabbed our supplies and went to work.  We tried a few different shapes and sizes of pretzels before we decided we preferred the broken pieces off the larger pretzels.  My mother and son, who also decorated Easter eggs together, jumped right into action, not hesitating to "play" around with the design.  I was content to take the pictures.  My father and husband were happy to sit back and watch the fun while offering suggestions.  

As the reindeer started taking shape, my son decided there should only be one Rudolph with a red nose.  I pulled out the chocolate chips so all of the other reindeer would have plain, yet delicious, noses.  

Needless to say, we had fun and laughed a lot together.  It was the perfect family "event" for Christmas Eve and not one we will forget, especially since we have lots of pictures.


Supplies We Used to Make the Cheesecake Reindeer


cheesecake reindeer supplies
  1. Cheesecake - baked the day before
  2. Chocolate Pretzels
  3. Pre-made Eyes
  4. One Red Spice Drop
  5. Chocolate Chips 

Those are the supplies we used, but now that you have seen the pictures and the idea, you may come up with a version your own family prefers.  It doesn't matter!  The fun is in decorating them together and creating a fun family memory.

 Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Milk Chocolate Covered Pretzels 5.5 OunceCheck Price Wilton Edible Candy Eyeballs, 0.88 oz.Check Price NESTLE TOLL HOUSE MORSELS SEMI SWEET CHOCCheck Price Zachary Cinnamon and Spearmint Flavored Spice Drops, 24 ozCheck Price

 

______________

 

Last year, I made Chocolate Hot Cocoa Bombs as our special treat.  We enjoyed watching them "explode" inside our festive snowman mugs.

Chocolate Hot Cocoa Bombs



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Cheesecake Reindeer Written by:
House of Sylvestermouse





© 2024 Cynthia Sylvestermouse
 




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Wednesday, November 20, 2024

The Best Clean, High-Quality Protein Powder That Tastes Terrific

I recently discovered Jocko Mölk Protein Powder after it was recommended by several nutritionists I follow. Ever since I started my low carb lifestyle back in 2019, I have tried to prioritize protein. But it can be harder than you think to get as much protein as we need!

I have used low carb protein shakes and protein bars to increase my protein intake without adding a lot of calories and fat to my diet. Unfortunately, many of them just don't taste that good, and many of the protein powders also have an unpleasant texture and tendency to sink to the bottom of whatever beverage you're making with them.

Fortunately, the one I'm reviewing today, Jocko Mölk Protein Powder, ticks all the boxes for my husband and me. It tastes great when blended into a shake with milk, ice, and optional flavorings, packs an impressive 22g of protein, yet it has only 120–140 calories, 2g–3.5g of fat, 3–7g of carbohydrate, and only 1–2g of sugar. It's soy-free and gluten-free and contains probiotics and digestive enzymes to prevent bloating.

Jocko Mölk Protein Powder
Our favorite protein shake made with Jocko Mölk Mint Chocolate Protein Powder, nut milk, ChocZero Peppermint Flavoring Syrup, and ice

What is Jocko Mölk Protein Powder?

Jocko Mölk Protein Powder, developed by retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, is designed for those seeking a high-quality, no-nonsense protein supplement that supports fitness goals. Known for its clean ingredient profile and versatility, it has become popular among athletes, gym-goers, and anyone looking to boost their protein intake. Here’s an in-depth look at the product:

Ingredienst for Jocko Molk Protein Powder Mint Chocolate Protein Shake

Ingredients & Nutritional Profile

Jocko Mölk is a blend of casein, whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and egg protein. This mix provides a sustained release of amino acids, making it an excellent option for both pre- and post-workout recovery, as well as before bedtime.

  • Protein Content: Each serving delivers 22 grams of protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
  • Carbs and Sugar: With only 1-2 grams of sugar per serving, depending on the flavor, it’s suitable for low-carb diets, including keto.
  • Fat: This protein powder is low in fat. Our favorite flavor, Mint Chocolate, has only 2.5g of fat.

The formula is rounded out with added digestive enzymes for improved absorption and probiotics to support gut health, a unique feature compared to many other protein powders.

Taste and Texture

Jocko Mölk comes in a variety of flavors, including Vanilla Milkshake, Strawberry Milkshake, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate, Banana, Cookies & Cream, and Pumpkin. (Some flavors may be seasonal.) So far, we have only tried the Mint Chocolate and we love it. We plan to try more flavors!

The flavors are rich and not overly sweet, as they are sweetened naturally with monk fruit. Many users appreciate the lack of artificial aftertaste that some protein powders have. This also makes it easy to customize your desired level of sweetness. (We love adding ChocZero flavoring syrups sweetened with monk fruit.)

Unlike many other protein powders, this one mixes smoothly with water, milk, or alternative milk without leaving clumps or being gritty. Using a blender yields the best results, but a shaker cup works well, too.

Performance and Benefits

In addition to providing a basic protein boost, which is why my husband and I use this, the slow-digesting protein blend supports muscle recovery over an extended period, making it ideal for nighttime use or between meals. We find that a shake made with Jocko Mölk, nut milk, ice, and optional flavorings is filling and satisfying while being low in calories, carbs, and fat.

Who It's For

• Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a clean, versatile protein powder.

• Dietary Needs: It’s keto-friendly, gluten-free, and made with natural ingredients, making it accessible for a range of dietary preferences. I also think it would also be great for seniors or invalids who aren't getting enough protein and other nutrients in their diets and would find a delicious protein shake an easy and pleasant way to supplement their nutrition.

• Who should avoid it: Those with dairy or egg allergies, as it contains casein, whey, and egg proteins.

Value for Money

At roughly $40–$45 for 31 servings, Jocko Mölk isn't inexpensive, but its price reflects its premium quality and clean formulation. Surprisingly, it's actually significantly less expensive than several other high quality, clean protein powders we have tried, such as Truvani whey protein, which costs roughly the same a 20-serving bag. And at roughly $1.30-$1.45 per serving, Jocko Mölk is a less expensive source of high-quality protein than many other foods.

Pros:

Clean, natural ingredients

High in protein

Sustained-release protein blend

Low in sugar, carbs, and calories

Added probiotics and digestive enzymes

Cons:

Not inexpensive, but (surprisingly) less expensive than several of the other high quality protein powders we have tried that we don't like as well.

Not suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies.

Closing Thoughts

Jocko Mölk Protein Powder delivers on its promise of providing high-quality, natural protein with added health benefits. It’s particularly suited for those serious about fitness and overall health, offering sustained energy and muscle recovery, but you don't have to be an athlete or fitness buff to benefit from it. 

It's also a wonderful, delicious, quick and convenient way for anyone to get more protein into their diets, including seniors and invalids who may not have an appetite for more conventional protein sources.

If you’re looking for a great-tasting, clean protein powder that goes beyond basic nutrition and doesn't cause digestive upset or bloating, Jocko Mölk is an excellent choice. Its emphasis on quality, health, and performance makes it stand out in a crowded market.

Bonus: Our Favorite Mint Chocolate Protein Shake Recipe

Servings:

2

Ingredients:

2 scoops Jocko Mölk Protein Powder, Mint Chocolate flavor

2 cups milk or milk alternative (we love unsweetened almond, cashew, macadamia, or pistachio milk)

2-3 Tablespoons of ChocZero Peppermint Flavoring Syrup or 1 tsp. Watkins Pure Peppermint extract (far superior to any brand other we have tried)

6 ice cubes

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth and ice is fully crushed. Divide between two tall Pilsner glasses and enjoy.


The Best-Tasting, High-Quality Protein Powder That Tastes Terrific by Margaret Schindel


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Tuesday, November 19, 2024

A Review of Three Lower Calorie Thanksgiving Recipes

 

thanksgiving recipes

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you are like me, you worry that all that luscious food will be taking up residence on your hips after the event.  Over the years I have found a few recipes that help reduce this possibility, and are just as delicious as their full calorie counterparts.  I even started sneaking them into potluck events around the holidays, and not a single person has ever noticed that the calories have been trimmed.  

Substitute one or more of these recipes at your family feast, and see if anyone notices.  I can practically guarantee they won't!

  

cranberry relish

Low Sugar Cranberry Relish 

 

Ingredients:

12 ounce cranberries - fresh or frozen cranberries. 

1 whole orange with skin  If you are not a fan of oranges, they can be changed out with any crispy, tart apple that is cored, peeled and sliced.

1/2 cup almonds, chopped medium. If you aren't partial to almonds, you can use walnuts or if you prefer softer nuts, use pecans.

1/2 cup to 3/4 cups sweetener. I use Splenda, not in packages, but loose.


Instructions:


1.  Wash the orange and cut it in half.  Peel one half and discard the peel.  Peel the other half and put the peel into the food processor or blender.   Separate the orange sections and cut each in half and set aside.


2.  Turn on the food processor or blender and chop the orange peel as small as you can without pureeing it.


3 Wash and drain the cranberries well. Make sure they are all firm. Put in the food processor or blender.  


4.  Put the almonds and 1/2 cup sweetener in the food processor or blender.  


5.  Pulse the food processor or blender until the pieces of the mixture are smallish chunky, and the sweetener is well mixed in.  


6.  Add the orange pieces and pulse a few more times till the oranges are well mixed in with the other ingredients.


7.  Try the relish for sweetness and and add more if needed.  


8.  This relish should be stored in a covered bowl in the refrigerator for 8 hours before serving.



green bean casserole

Green Bean Casserole


Ingredients:


1/3 cup chopped onions

1/3 cup bread crumbs

4 slices turkey bacon

1 can (10 ounce) of 99%fat free cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup plain fat free yogurt

1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (I use Stubbs Hickory Liquid Smoke from Amazon)

3 9 ounce packages of frozen French cut green beans, frozen


Instructions:


1.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees


2.  Lightly spray a cookie sheet with no stick spray


3.  In a small bowl, stir together the onions and bread crumbs.


4.  Evenly spread the mixture on the cookie sheet and bake about 12 minutes until golden brown.

  

5.  Remove from oven and set aside.


6.  Cook the the turkey bacon (I use the original Makin Bacon Microwave Dish to make mine)


7.  Chop the bacon and set aside.


8.  In a large bowl, stir together the condensed soup, yogurt and liquid smoke.

 

9.  Then stir in the beans and bacon.


10.  Lightly spray a glass baking dish (11" x 7" or 9" x 13") with no stick spray.


11.  Transfer the bean mixture to the backing dish.

  
12.  Top with the onion mixture to the glass dish.


13.  Top with the onion mixture and back for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly.


Makes 6 servings, 103 calories per serving.



Pumpkin Pie


Pumpkin Pie


If you prefer, you can make your pie shell from scratch.  I always use a premade pie shell to save time.


Pumpkin Pie Filling:


15 ounce can of pure pumpkin - Not pumpkin pie filling

12 ounces of fat free evaporated skim milk

2 eggs or 1/2 cup of Egg Beaters 

1/2 cup granulated sugar - I substitute Splenda for this

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp powdered ginger

1/4 tsp ground cloves - this is optional, as some don't like the taste

1/4 tsp nutmeg


Instructions:


1.  Preheat oven to 425 degrees


2.  Combine sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves in a small bowl.


3.  Beat eggs lightly in a large bowl.  


4.  Stir in pumpkin and spice mixture. 


5.  Gradually stir in evaporated skim milk.


6.  Pour in to a pre-prepared pie shell.


7.  Bake pie in the oven for 15 minutes.


8.  Reduce temperature to 350 degrees and bake for 40-50 minutes or until a  knife inserted in the center comes out clean.


9.  Remove from oven and let cool for at least two hours, serve immediately or refrigerate before serving.  DO NOT chill before the pie has set, if you do it can begin to weep moisture on the top of the pie.  If this happens, blot the top lightly with a paper towel.


Makes 8 servings, about 150 calories each.



I especially love the relish.  It is so sweet and crunchy!  I always had eaten regular jellied cranberry sauce until about 10 years ago when my sister brought some relish to our Thanksgiving dinner.  I tried it and just never looked back.  It is YUMMY!!


The pumpkin pie is a recipe that I made myself when my husband developed diabetes and could not have sugar anymore.  While I was tweaking the recipe I decided to try to cut some calories too which is why I started using fat free evaporated skim milk.  I really cannot taste the difference.  


I hope you enjoy these recipes as much as I have and you and yours have a


Happy Thanksgiving!



fall leaves

Photos by Pixabay and eatloveeats







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Tuesday, November 5, 2024

How to Make Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara

 Spaghetti Carbonara is one of the simplest and most delicious pasta dishes from Italy. You don't have to go to a fancy Italian restaurant to enjoy this easy-to-make dish. In my review today I'll show how simple this is to make at home.

Spaghetti Carbonara a Foolproof Recipe

Authentic Carbonara is made with Guanciale (cured pork cheek), which is really hard to find. So, we use Pancetta (cured pork belly). You can easily find pancetta already diced at your local grocery store. If you can't find pancetta, you can use bacon.

Ingredients:

1 lb. of spaghetti

1/2 pound Pancetta or Bacon diced

2 cloves of garlic minced

3 eggs

1 cup of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese 

Fresh ground black pepper

Parsley Chopped for garnish

Salt, for pasta water

1/4 cup pasta water

Instructions:

  1. Start a large pot of salted water for the pasta and bring to a boil.
  2. Add the pancetta or bacon and minced garlic to a large frying pan. Cook over medium heat until the fat has rendered and the pancetta or bacon is crispy.
  3. While the pancetta is cooking add the eggs, cheese, and black pepper into a bowl and whisk together. Set this aside.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain, and place in a large bowl. Quickly add the pancetta and egg mixture. Return to the frying pan over low heat. Mix well to create a creamy sauce. Add 1/4 cup of pasta water if needed.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley, and more cheese, and serve.

Cooking Pancetta

This is our pancetta and garlic cooking in the frying pan. 

Carbonara egg and cheese mixture

This is our egg and cheese mixture 

Tip: When you return the pasta to the frying pan low heat is the key. You don't want the eggs to scramble, the low heat while mixing will create a smooth custard-like sauce.

Our family loves this Italian classic. So, try this at home I'm sure your family will love it as much as we do.

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