Collect recipes, make meal plans, shop wisely, enjoy working in my kitchen, serve great food, eat at the table, and clean up afterwards.

For dinner tonight:
http://eatingwell.com/recipes/vegetarian_hot_pot.html

I’ve been reading recipes from cookbooks I’ve found at thrift stores, buying “good stuff” when I run across it in the stores. Lighting a candle when I work in the kitchen, my radio is there too. We ate at the table. (!) (steaks, swiss chard and french bread) And . . . I cleaned up. I know this is really easy for some, but I really felt like it has been a hurdle for me lately. : )

Did you know a kitchen knife is not sharp unless you can drag it across a tomato and it cuts?
What do you think of eggplant? Swiss Chard?
(yes, I have been reading cookbooks again)

Think Beef Stew.

Think apples.

Did you know that cooking food in pots that are aluminum or iron will discolor foods that contain eggs yolks or white wine?

Tonight is supposed to be “vegetarian and rice”, I would welcome ideas. : )

Don’t even remember what I made on Monday, (I do remember eating in front of the t.v., the movie was “The Queen.”)
Tuesday was the artichokes I wanted and the shrimp daughter wanted on Sunday.
Wednesday was pork chops, applesauce and macaroni & cheese. Husband’s favorite.
Been having a difficult time in the kitchen.
Table is all cluttered again.

Before I had planned on 5 proteins, and 4 carbs, but I think I will combine the “beef” and the “pork” into one, (four footed beasts?) and take “potatoes” out of the picture, call the carbs “grains” and then say “add the veggies” to the end of the whole thing. So, there are 4 proteins; vegetarian, fish & seafood, poultry, and beef & pork. 3 grains; rice, breads and pasta. 12 different combinations, add your veggies and you are done. I hope all that is not confusing!

Recipe that I found today:

http://eatingwell.com/recipes/pan_bagna.html

It may be good to pack for a lunch.