Showing posts with label Sam Monaco. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sam Monaco. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Cooking Breakfast with Cast Iron Skillets on a Grill

 There is something wonderful about cooking breakfast outdoors, especially when using cast iron skillets on a grill. This year for the 4th of July we had a house full so, it was a good idea to cook breakfast for everyone on the grill. Here is a review of my cooking experience.

Cooking breakfast with cast iron skillets on a grill

I used my Char-Griller Smokin Champ Charcoal Grill, and a gas grill will also work. Preheating the grill to medium-high temperature was my goal (around 375-400 degrees F).

Here is my Menu:

Bacon

Sausage Links

Hash Browns

Pancakes 

Scrambled Eggs

Over easy Eggs (made in the bacon grease)

Cast iron is perfect for grilling or cooking on any surface, it retains heat very well and provides an even cooking surface. Make sure your skillets are well-seasoned to prevent sticking.

Breakfast on the Grill

I used every cast iron skillet I own to make this breakfast. I cooked the bacon in my 12-inch skillet and started the sausage in my 8-inch skillet. Reserving my 10-inch skillet for the scrambled eggs later. I almost forgot the hash browns and pancakes were cooked on my 17-inch x 9.5-inch griddle. As the food was cooked I moved it to foil pans that I placed on the upper rack to keep it warm.

The Verdict: 

To prevent the scrambled eggs from sticking I used a generous amount of butter in the bottom of the skillet. The bacon cooked well in my 12-inch skillet, and I finished cooking the sausage and over-easy eggs in the bacon grease (not so healthy but so good). 

The pancakes were a challenge as they cooked rather quickly on the griddle. Heat control is the key, the pancakes were the last thing I cooked so, the griddle was too hot at this point. Overall cooking breakfast with cast iron skillets on the grill is an adventure worth trying. I had so much fun cooking this breakfast and everyone really enjoyed the food.

Find more recipes on ReviewThis Here:

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I only use Lodge Cast Iron Cookware below is what I used for breakfast:




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Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Celebrate with a Festive Patriotic Trifle

 Summer is here, and that means it's time for barbecues, picnics, and all things outdoors. Whether you're celebrating the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or just feeling extra patriotic this festive trifle is the perfect dessert to add to your picnic. It's not only delicious but very easy to make.

Festive Patriotic Trifle
Festive Patriotic Trifle - Reviewed

Every year for our 4th of July celebration our daughter Jamie, and grandson, Tyler make this festive dessert. This is so easy to assemble, no need for baking skills. Just layer and go. With the vibrant colors and fresh fruit flavors, it's a real crowd-pleaser. You can customize it with your favorite fruits and flavors making this so versatile.

Ingredients for a Festive Patriotic Trifle:

  • 1-angle food cake or pound cake (cut into cubes)
  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced
  • 2 cups blueberries
  • 1 cup raspberries
  • 2 cups vanilla pudding
  • 2 cups whipped cream

Assemble the Trifle:

  1. In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, start with a layer of cubed cake.
  2. Add a layer of vanilla pudding, spreading it evenly over the cake.
  3. Add a layer of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries).
  4. Add a layer of whipped cream.
  5. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and berries.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

I hope you enjoy this festive dessert at your next picnic. The delightful combination of fruit, pudding, and whipped cream is sure to impress your guests.

Find more recipes and desserts on ReviewThis here:

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If you need a Trifle Bowl why not buy one named after me.




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.”


Thursday, June 20, 2024

Starting and Maintaining the Temperature in an Off-Set Smoker

 There is something magical about cooking on an off-set smoker. The slow process of smoking meats creates flavors unmatched by any other cooking method.

 However, mastering an off-set smoker can be a daunting task for a beginner. I have been using my off-set smoker for the last six years, and in my review today I'm going to share some things I've learned about starting and controlling the temperature.

Starting and maintaining the temperature in an off-set smoker

Starting Your Off-Set Smoker:

Choose high-quality lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes. It's the foundation of your fire and will provide the steady heat needed. 

Select hardwoods like oak, hickory, cherry, maple, or applewood. These woods burn slowly, adding a rich smokey flavor to your meats. Hickory is my favorite and my go-to hardwood, I love the flavor it adds to the meats.

Fire Box

Building a solid base fire is the key. I start by piling unlit charcoal in the firebox closest to the cooking chamber. Then, I fill my charcoal chimney starter, and when the coals are hot dump them next to the unlit charcoal in the firebox, then, add some wood on top. Close the firebox to bring the cooking chamber up to the temperature I want. 


Smoker Temperture

My temperature is coming up nicely. I'm looking for a temperature between 225 and 275 degrees. The temperature is reading 280 degrees so, that means my surface temperature on the cooking chamber surface is about 230 or 240 degrees. The reason for the variance is that the thermometers are placed high on the lid of the grills, and the temperature will be about 40 to 50 degrees less on the cooking surface.

Firebox Intake Vent


Controlling the Airflow:

This is the intake vent on the back of the firebox. At this point, I leave it wide open for a higher temperature. When I need to lower the temperature I will close it but not all of the way, this allows less air and will lower the temperature.

Smoke Stack

Exhaust vent or smoke stack, I always keep my smoke stack wide open. This allows the smoke to escape, preventing it from becoming stale and bitter. 

I find this method to give me 2 to 3 hours of constant heat before I have to add more fuel for heat. For a long smoke, I'll add more fuel about every 45 minutes to an hour to maintain the temperature.

Patience is the key, smoking meat is a low and slow process. Rushing it will not yield the best results.

Practice, the more you use your off-set smoker, the more you'll understand how it reacts to adjustments.

Find more Product Reviews Here:


Char-Griller 8125 Competition Pro Charcoal Grill, BlackChar-Griller 8125 Competition Pro Charcoal Grill, BlackCheck the PriceWeber Rapidfire Chimney Starter, Standard, SilverWeber Rapidfire Chimney Starter, Standard, SilverCheck the Price

 




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Thursday, June 6, 2024

Five Inexpensive Father's Day Gifts

 Father's Day is approaching, and you might be wondering how to show your dad some love without breaking the bank. Since you didn't win the lottery to buy your dad a new car, here are five thoughtful budget-friendly gift ideas that will make your dad feel appreciated.

Father's Day Gift Ideas
Five Inexpensive Father's Day Gifts - Reviewed

Personalized Photo Frame

A personalized photo frame can be a heartwarming gift your dad will cherish for years. Consider choosing a special photo of you, your dad, or the entire family, and find a nice frame. You can even decorate the frame to add a personal touch. This gift is inexpensive and sentimental, reminding your dad of precious memories every time he looks at it.

DIY Coupon Book

Create a DIY coupon book filled with coupons for various activities or chores that you will do for your dad. Things like, washing the car, making him breakfast, spending the day doing his favorite activity, and completing that project around the house that he has been putting off. This thoughtful gift allows your dad to redeem the coupons whenever he likes.

Homemade Treats

If your dad has a sweet tooth, like me, or a favorite snack, consider making some homemade treats. Bake a batch of cookies, brownies, or even a special dish that he loves. Package them up in a decorative tin or box. This is a delicious and cost-effective way to show your dad you care.

A Good Book

If your dad enjoys reading, a good book can be a perfect gift. Choose a book from his favorite genre or an author he loves. If you're unsure what book to get, consider a best seller or classic that many people enjoy. You can often find great deals on books at a local bookstore, online retailers, or even second-hand shops.

Handwritten Letter

In today's digital age, a handwritten letter can be a very special and meaningful gift. Take the time to write a heartfelt letter to your dad, expressing your gratitude and love. Share your favorite memories and tell him how much he means to you. This simple gesture will likely be treasured for years to come.

Father's Day doesn't have to be about expensive gifts. It's the thought and effort that counts the most. These inexpensive gift ideas are sure to make your dad feel loved and appreciated without putting a strain on your wallet. Happy Father's Day to all the wonderful dads out there.

Find more Gift Ideas on Review This Here:

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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.”


Tuesday, May 21, 2024

The Classic Record Player Stand - Reviewed

 In this age of digital streaming, there is something undeniably charming about spinning vinyl records on a classic turntable. Our daughter bought Fran a classic turntable for her birthday this year. Since we didn't have a place for it we had to find a record player stand. 

The classic record player stand - reviewed

Fran began a search for what she wanted to buy for our new turntable. Yes, now we have another piece of furniture in the house. She found this Amil Series stand from Mazefur with more of a contemporary style. It's perfect for the new turntable and fits nicely in our living room.

The stand was very easy to assemble with excellent easy-to-follow instructions. The top surface offers a stable platform for our turntable, with enough space to accommodate even a larger model. 

The stand has a sleek pull-out drawer at the top, a shelf right below the drawer, and plenty of storage space for our extensive collection of vinyl records to be stored safely.

Many turntables on the market today have built-in CD players, ours does not. The shelf below the drawer will be perfect for a CD player, as we also have an extensive collection of CDs. The shelf has wire management access on the back panel for easy installation of the wires.

There are many styles of record player stands to choose from. We like the style of the one we purchased, but you can find many stands that offer a retro look to bring you back in time.

Find more Product Reviews on ReviewThis here:

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Below are just a couple of styles you will find on Amazon.

 




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.”


Thursday, May 16, 2024

Garlic Butter Noodles with Mushrooms

 This is one of my absolute favorite pasta dishes. Garlic butter noodles with mushrooms are so easy to make and you can have them on the table in 30 minutes or less.

Garlic Butter Noodles with Mushrooms
Garlic Butter Noodles with Mushrooms - Recipe Reviewed

When looking for something quick, tasty, and easy to make this is one of our go-to meals. The butter garlic flavor really stands out. If you like mushrooms as I do, and pasta this is a perfect combination. The recipe below is enough for two people. If you're serving a crowd just add to it accordingly.

Ingredients: 

  • 12 oz. sliced mushrooms (washed and pat dry)
  • 4 tablespoons butter (2 for the mushrooms and 2 for the noodles)
  • 3 cloves of garlic finely chopped
  • 1/2 bag of noodles (or your favorite pasts)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Begin cooking the mushrooms in a skillet over medium to high heat.
  2. Stir and turn the mushrooms until you see moisture in the pan.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and chopped garlic and continue to stir and turn until the mushrooms are golden brown.
  4. Lower the heat to simmer and cook your noodles.
  5. Drain the cooked noodles and return them to the pot or a bowl, add the other 2 tablespoons of butter and stir.
  6. Pour the cooked mushrooms over the noodles and stir. Add the garnish and serve.

Mushrooms and noodles

I always begin cooking my mushrooms in a dry pan first over medium to high heat. Mushrooms contain a lot of water, and this method allows the liquids to slowly evaporate and the mushrooms to caramelize. 

You will also want a skillet large enough so the mushrooms are not piled high on top of each other. After they burn off some of their liquids and turn golden brown it is time to add the butter and any seasoning you're using.

This is such a versatile meal, you can use whatever pasta you like instead of noodles. You can also season the mushrooms with your favorite seasonings or add a little lemon juice to the mushrooms as they are cooking.

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Find more of my recipes here:

Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Design-Forward Cookware,BlackLodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Design-Forward Cookware, BlackCheck the Price

 




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Thursday, May 2, 2024

Black & Decker Cordless Drill - Reviewed

 Having the right tools for your DIY project makes all the difference between frustration and satisfaction. One of these indispensable tools is my Black & Decker cordless drill, the perfect companion for many of my home improvement tasks.

Black & Decker Cordless Drill - Reviewed

Black & Decker Cordless Drill Features:

Design and Build Quality: Black & Decker is a renowned name in the realm of power tools. My first impression is the drill is lightweight and fits comfortably in my hand, even for extended periods of use. The grip is rubberized, providing both comfort and control.

Performance: The Black & Decker Cordless Drill is equipped with a powerful motor and effortlessly tackles many drilling and driving tasks efficiently. Over the years I have used my cordless drill to drill holes and drive screws into wood, metal, and plastic with ease. The variable speed control allows for seamless adjustment for any of these tasks.

Battery Life and Charging: The Black & Decker is equipped with a 20V lithium-ion battery, it offers extended runtime, minimizing interruptions during long projects. Although, I have never had a project long enough where I ran out of power. I recommend a second battery if you consistently use the drill for long projects. That way you always have one charged.

Versatility and Ease of Use: The variable speed control makes it easy to transition between drilling and driving applications. The keyless chuck feature makes it easy to change drill and driving bits. Additionally, the drill has an LED light to illuminate the work area.

Value: The Black & Decker Cordless stands out as a compelling option with its performance, durability, and affordability. The Black & Decker is a reasonable price for all of the performance. I also purchased the handy accessory kit you see in the photo with many driver bits and drills. With that kit, I have always had whatever I needed for the task.

Find more product reviews on Review This

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This Black & Decker Drill and accessory kit make the perfect Father's Day gift.

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Driver, 3/8 Inch, With LED Work Light, Battery and Charger Included (LDX120C)BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Driver, 3/8 Inch, With LED Work Light, Battery and Charger Included (LDX120C)BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Driver, 3/8 Inch, With LED Work Light, Battery and Charger Included (LDX120C)BLACK+DECKER Drill Bit Set/Screwdriver Bit Set Combo, 109-Piece (BDA91109)BLACK+DECKER Drill Bit Set/Screwdriver Bit Set Combo, 109-Piece (BDA91109)BLACK+DECKER Drill Bit Set/Screwdriver Bit Set Combo, 109-Piece (BDA91109)

 




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Thursday, April 18, 2024

Seagate Backup Plus Portable Storage Reviewed

In our fast-paced digital age, where every moment is captured, every file is crucial, and every memory is cherished, having a reliable storage solution is paramount.

The Seagate Plus Portable Storage is a compact companion designed to safeguard your precious data while offering convenience and peace of mind.

Seagate
Seagate Backup Plus Portable Storage

Features of Seagate Backup Plus Portable Storage:

Design and Portability: The Seagate Backup Plus offers a sleek design, with a durable enclosure. The compact form makes it effortlessly portable, fitting snugly into pockets, bags, or backpacks, ensuring your data is always with you wherever you go.

Capacity and Performance: Available in various capacities ranging from a few gigabytes to multiple terabytes, the Backup Plus offers ample storage space to accommodate your growing digital needs. 

Whether it's high-resolution photos, extensive music collections, or hefty video files, this portable powerhouse can handle it all with ease. With USB 3.0 connectivity, transferring files is as easy as a couple of clicks.

Backup and Data Protection: The reason I purchased the Seagate Backup Plus. I've had my computer crash before and lost all of my data. So, I needed an external backup for peace of mind.

 I considered Cloud storage and found that the free plans don't offer enough storage to back up your computer, meaning you will have to buy additional storage for a monthly fee. Also restoring your computer from local storage is generally far faster than pulling it down from the cloud. 

I'm not very technical or computer-savvy I like things simple. With just a couple of clicks, my computer is backed up and the data is on my desk. Paying the one-time price for the Seagate Backup Plus is worth it to me. I find it to be a worthwhile investment for dependable storage.

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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.”


Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Methods to Remove Wallpaper

Wallpaper can be used to change the look of any room or create a beautiful accent wall. Sometimes people use wallpaper to cover blemishes on a wall. Either way, you may have some wallpaper in your home and want to remove it. Today I will be reviewing, three different methods of removing wallpaper. 

Methods to Remove Wallpaper

I am not an expert or professional by any means. As the saying goes; I'm a jack of all trades but a master of none. Over the years I have used every one of these methods at one time or another.

Method 1: Steam Removal

  • You can rent or buy a wallpaper steamer.
  • Fill the steamer reservoir with water to the fill line.
  • Attach the handle and hose to the steamer plate.
  • Plug in the machine and turn it on. Wait 5 or 10 minutes for it to build up steam.
  • Place the steamer plate on the wall, and hold it for 20 to 30 seconds. Remove the plate and scrap the wet wallpaper with a putty knife.
  • You will want to score the section of wall you are steaming with a scoring tool or razor knife before placing the steamer plate. Do not press hard while scoring the wallpaper as you may damage the wall.

Method 2: Water and Vinegar

  • Mix equal parts of hot water and vinegar in a spray bottle or a bucket.
  • Spray to sponge the solution on a four-foot section of the wall.
  • Wait about five minutes to allow the solution to work.
  • Scrap the wet section with a putty knife to remove the wallpaper.
  • Again, score the wall section first with a scoring tool or razor knife.
Method 3: Chemical Liquid Stripper
  • There are different brands of liquid strippers available. I have always used DIF by Zinsser. It's pre-mixed and ready to use.
  • Score the wallpaper with a razor knife or scoring tool.
  • Spray it onto the wallpaper, and wait a few minutes before scraping it with a putty knife.
With any of these three methods, you will want to tape off the baseboard and about 12 inches onto the floor with plastic. This will make clean up easier.

You may have to repeat the method, sometimes on the first try the wallpaper will come off leaving the backer.

Tip: If you're removing wallpaper from Drywall be careful not to use too much water and oversoak the walls. Too much water may damage the drywall.

There is more work to be done after the wallpaper is off:

After the wallpaper is off, remove any remaining glue residue from the walls. For this, use hot water and a sponge and wipe the walls clean. 

Before painting, I always use fine-grained sandpaper and lightly sand the walls. Now, patch any cracks or small holes in the walls before painting with a good primer. Then, paint your finish coat in your desired color. Happy wallpaper removal!

Find more DIY Projects and Decor here:




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.”


Thursday, March 7, 2024

Savory Spinach Ball Appetizers

 If you looking for an easy and healthy appetizer to serve at your next gathering, look no further than these easy spinach ball appetizers. These bite-sized delights are packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Whether hosting a party or craving a tasty snack, these spinach balls are the perfect choice.

Savory Spinach Ball Appetizers
Spinach Ball Appetizers - Reviewed

This is one of those recipes we had packed away and had not made for some time. This past Holiday season, Fran was going through some old recipes and found our spinach ball recipe.

We both thought wow we haven't made these in a long time. So, we decided to make them and we're so glad we did. 

Spinach Ball Ingredients:

  • 2 cups( 2-10 boxes) frozen chopped spinach
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:

  1. Thaw and pat dry the spinach.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well.
  3. Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into bite-sized balls.
  4. Place them on a greased cookie sheet or lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
  6. Cool for a few minutes before serving.
These spinach balls are a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Spinach balls are a perfect appetizer for any party or just as a snack. 

If we have any leftovers we freeze them. You can take them out of the freezer and pop them in the oven to warm them up for a snack. I like them plain, but you can experiment with different dipping sauces if you like.

For more recipes on Review This click here:

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