Chickpea Tikka Masala

Chickpea Tikka Masala

This Chickpea Tikka Masala is a delicious and easy-to-make vegetarian dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The chickpeas are cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Serve it over rice or with naan for a satisfying meal. Source: The Minimalist Kitchen, p. 84 Servings: 4 Hands-On Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Ingredients Rice 1 cup rice 1 tbsp butter, unsalted 1/4 tsp salt Chickpea Sauce 1 tbsp olive oil 1 cup sweet onion, diced 1/4 tsp salt 3/4 tsp salt 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp curry powder 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/2 tsp cinnamon 2 (15 oz) cans crushed tomatoes, fire-roasted 1/3 cup coconut milk, full-fat 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed Garnish (optional) 1 dash lime juice plain yogurt, to taste siracha, to taste Directions In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and (1/4 tsp) salt and sauté for 4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic, cook for 30 seconds Stir in the (3/4 tsp) salt, curry powder, cumin, and cinnamon and cook for 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Add the chickpeas and simmer for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine the rice, butter, and (1/4 tsp) salt with 2 cups water.

April 27, 2025 · Jillian Miserak
Meatloaf

Meatloaf

This classic meatloaf recipe is a family favorite. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite spices and sauces. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. Source: Joy of Cooking (2019), p. 505 Serves 6 Ingredients 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 1/2 lb ground beef 1 cup dry bread crumbs 2/3 cup ketchup 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1/2 cup (2 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated (optional) 3 eggs, lightly beaten 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper Directions Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 6-8 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, parsley, Parmesan cheese (if using), eggs, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the bowl and mix until well combined. Knead the mixture with your hands until it holds together. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The top should be firm to the touch and has shrunken slightly from the sides of the pan. Pour off excess fat and let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Brush the top with ketchup or barbecue sauce if desired.

April 27, 2025 · Jillian Miserak
Retro Salisbury Steak

Retro Salisbury Steak

Retro Salisbury Steak is a classic comfort food dish that brings back memories of family dinners and hearty meals. This recipe features seasoned ground beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom sauce, served with mashed potatoes or rice. It’s a nostalgic dish that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. Source: Dinners Ready! by Ree Drummond (2023), p. 200 Makes: 4 servings Cook Time: 25 minutes Ingredients 1 1/2 lb ground beef, lean 1/2 cup bread crumbs, seasoned 1 (1 oz) packet french onion soup mix 4 dashes Worcestershire sauce 4 tbsp BBQ sauce, your favorite salt and pepper, to taste 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp butter, salted 1 tbsp flour 1/4 cup white wine, dry 1 1/2 cups beef broth, low sodium parsley, fresh, chopped, for garnish Directions In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, (1/2) french onion soup mix. Add the Worcestershire sauce, (2 tbsp) BBQ sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into 8 oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Mark the patties with a fork to create a grill mark pattern and set aside. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties to the skillet, marked side down, and cook 5 minutes one side. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. Ensure they resemble a grilled steak. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Pour off all but 3 tablespoons of the drippings from the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the flour over the drippings and whisk to combine. This should create a roux, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light brown color. Pour in the white wine and stir to combine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the beef broth and stir to combine. Add the remaining french onion soup mix and the remaining (2 tbsp) BBQ sauce. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Return the patties to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Turn the heat to low and let the patties simmer in the sauce for 5-10 minutes until heated through. Spoon the sauce over the patties while they simmer. Serve 1-2 patties per plate, topped with sauce and garnished with parsley. Variations After you remove the patties from the skillet, add (8 oz) sliced mushrooms and cook them for 5 minutes until before moving forward with the sauce.

April 27, 2025 · Jillian Miserak
Caramelized Onions

Caramelized Onions

Caramelized onions are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are made by slowly cooking onions over low heat until they become soft, sweet, and golden brown. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the quantity of onions and the desired level of caramelization. Source: Dinners Ready! by Ree Drummond (2023), p. 12 Makes: 2 half pint jars ...

April 26, 2025 · Jillian Miserak
Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan

This is a classic Italian-American dish that features breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Source: Cooking for Two (2014) p. 108 Serves: 2 Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Ingredients Sauce 1 (28 oz) can of peeled tomatoes, drained 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped 1/4 tsp sugar, plus extra as needed salt to taste Chicken & Spaghetti 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 large egg 3/4 cups of panko breadcrumbs 1/4 cup fontina cheese, shredded 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated 1/4 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded 2 (6-8 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed & pounded if necessary salt and pepper to taste 6 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped 4 oz spaghetti, cooked according to package directions Directions Make the Sauce Pulse the peeled tomatoes in a food processor until coarsely ground, 6 to 8 pulses. Cook oil and garlic in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stirring often until garlic is fragrant, but not browned, about 2 minutes. Stir in pulsed tomatoes, bring to a simmer, until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Off heat, stir in basil, sugar, and season with salt and sugar to taste. Bread the Chicken Adjust oven rack 4 inches from the broiler and heat the broiler. Set up a breading station with 3 shallow dishes: 1st dish: flour seasoned with salt and pepper 2nd dish: egg, beaten 3rd dish: panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip the chicken in the egg, allowing excess to drip off. Coat the chicken with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Fry the Chicken Line a large plate with triple layer of paper towels. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 4-6 minutes per side. Chicken should be cooked through and register 160°F on an instant-read thermometer. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly. Place the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet. Create the Cheese Topping Combine mozzarella & fontina in a bowl. Sprinkle cheese mixture over the chicken covering as much surface as possible. Broil until the cheese is melted and begins to brown, about 2-4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and top each breast with 2 tbsps of sauce and sprinkle with basil. Cook the Pasta and Serve Meal Meanwhile, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add pasta and 1 tbsp of salt and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and return to pot. Add remaining sauce to pasta and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency. Serve the pasta with the chicken.

April 26, 2025 · Jillian Miserak
Pickled Red Onions

Pickled Red Onions

It’s hard to beat the crunch and tang of pickled red onions. They add a pop of color and flavor to any dish, from tacos to salads. This quick and easy recipe will have you enjoying homemade pickled red onions in no time! Source: Dinner’s Ready! by Ree Drummond (2023), p. 12 Makes: 1 (16-ounce) jar Cooking Time: 12 minutes, plus 1 hour to pickle Ingredients 2/3 cup distilled white vinegar 2 teaspoons sugar 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 medium red onion, halved and thinly sliced 2/3 cup water Directions In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and 2/3 cup water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Add the onions and let them simmer for 30 seconds. Transfer the onions to a 16-ounce jar. And pour enough of the pickling liquid over the onions to cover them completely. Let cool to room temperature, then screw on the lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using. The pickled red onions will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Will deepen in flavor and color as they sit.

April 26, 2025 · Jillian Miserak
Banana Nut Muffins

Banana Nut Muffins

Banana Nut Muffins are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that are perfect for breakfast or a snack. This recipe uses Krusteaz Banana Nut Muffin Mix, which makes the process quick and simple. The muffins are moist, flavorful, and packed with banana and nutty goodness. Source: Krusteaz Banana Nut Muffin Mix Serving Size: 2 muffins Servings: 6 Ingredients 1 box of Krusteaz Banana Nut Muffin Mix 1/2 cup of water 1/3 cup of vegetable oil 3 eggs Directions Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). ...

July 8, 2024 · Jillian Miserak
Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore

This is a classic Italian dish that translates to “hunter’s chicken.” It’s a rustic, hearty meal that combines chicken with tomatoes, olives, and herbs. The dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Source: Joy of Cooking (2019), p. 422. Ingredients 3.5 to 4.0 lb chicken parts (legs, thighs, wings), preferably thighs 1 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 bay leaf 1 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, crumbled 1/2 tsp dried sage, crumbled 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes 8 oz mushrooms, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup dry white/red wine 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup of black olives, pitted and sliced Directions Prepare the chicken Rinse and pat dry the chicken parts. Season with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken parts and brown each side for about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. Sauté the vegetables In the same skillet, add the onion, bay leaf, rosemary, sage, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic, and sauté for another 5 minutes. Deglaze the skillet Pour in the wine and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Return the chicken Add the chicken back to the skillet, simmer on medium-high heat until the wine has nearly evaporated. Add tomatoes and broth Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, and olives. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Thicken the sauce Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Serve Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the chicken cacciatore over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

July 7, 2024 · Jillian Miserak
Walnut Brownies

Duncan Hines Brownies

This recipe is a classic for a reason! Duncan Hines brownies are easy to make and always delicious. The addition of walnuts adds a nice crunch, but feel free to leave them out if you prefer a nut-free version. Source: Duncan Hines Milk Chocolate Brownie Mix Serves: 20 Ingredients 1 box Duncan Hines Milk Chocolate Brownie Mix 2/3 cup vegetable oil 3 tbsp water 2 large eggs 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) Directions Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine brownie mix, oil, water, and eggs. If using, add chopped walnuts. Mix until well combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Spread evenly. Bake for 36-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

July 7, 2024 · Jillian Miserak
Halal Cart-Style Chicken, Rice, & White Sauce

Halal Cart-Style Chicken, Rice, & White Sauce

This is a recipe for a classic Middle Eastern dish, often found in street food stalls and halal carts. The dish features marinated chicken served over a bed of spiced rice, accompanied by a tangy white sauce and fresh vegetables. The chicken is marinated in a blend of lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and olive oil, which infuses it with flavor and keeps it moist during cooking. The rice is cooked with turmeric and cumin, giving it a beautiful yellow color and aromatic flavor. The white sauce, made with mayonnaise, yogurt, and vinegar, adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a favorite among many, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. ...

July 7, 2024 · Jillian Miserak