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  • Sweet & Spicy Orange Chicken

    This recipe combines tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy batter and smothered in a luscious, tangy orange sauce. Ideal for weeknight family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a new favorite! Jump to Recipe There is absolutely no reason for take-out when the taste of this homemade version is so much better! Seriously, this beats any drive-thru or take-out hands down. Homemade is not only a healthier option, but it’s also easy on your wallet. For our family of four, ordering takeout can add up quickly. The average cost of a takeout meal is $15 or more per person. However, making your favorite take-out recipe at home can be done for a fraction of the price. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that serves multiple people. Unlike the take-out version, you control the quality of ingredients. Most restaurant versions are loaded with MSG, sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats. So, skip the drive-thru and get started on this mouthwatering, homemade favorite instead! Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken Recipe Irresistible Flavor : The combination of sweetness from the orange juice and sugar, along with the kick of heat from red pepper flakes, creates a mouthwatering experience. Easy to Make : With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dish in no time. Customizable : Adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste preferences, making it perfect for everyone. What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken If I’m feeding a crowd with this dish, I like to include a couple of other offerings such as fluffy Jasmine Rice, Vegetable Egg Rolls , and Homemade Cream Cheese Wontons. Advertisement Helpful Tips Skip the store-bought orange juice and use freshly squeezed juice instead. Store-bought juice has additional sugars and flavorings that will alter the taste of the finished dish. Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure consistency in the oil temperature. Ensure even cooking by cutting the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Craving More Recipes Like This? Ground Beef and Ramen Korean Bowl Simple Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken Easy Beef and Broccoli Skillet Ingredients For the Chicken : 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces 2 Tablespoons of cornstarch 1 Tablespoon of soy sauce 1 Tablespoon of vegetable oil for frying For the Sauce: 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges) Zest of 1 orange 1/4 cup of soy sauce 1/4 cup of honey 2 Tablespoons of rice vinegar 2 Tablespoons of chili paste 2 cloves of garlic, minced 1 Tablespoon of ginger, freshly grated 1 Tablespoon of cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) Sesame seeds, optional Chopped green onions, optional Directions In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 Tablespoon of soy sauce and 2 Tablespoons of cornstarch. Mix well to coat each piece evenly. Let it marinate for approximately 15 minutes. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 Tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ½ cup fresh orange juice, zest of one orange, ¼ cup of soy sauce, ¼ cup of honey, 2 Tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 Tablespoons of chili paste, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 Tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. To make a cornstarch slurry, combine 1 Tablespoon of cornstarch with approximately 2 Tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Mix well to break up any clumps. Pour the orange sauce mixture into the same skillet used for the chicken and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce. Stir continuously for approximately 2-3 minutes or until sauce begins to thicken. Return the fried chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece with the orange sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the flavors meld together. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving if desired. How to Store Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. How to Freeze Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken Prepare as directed and allow to cool completely. Store in a freezer-safe container with a snap-on lid and/or wrap the dish in foil and plastic wrap in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw completely in the refrigerator. Warm in the microwave for approximately 3-4 minutes, depending on size of the container. Alternatively, a larger dish can be warmed in the oven at 400 degrees for approximately 20 minutes or until the dish is heated through completely. If you loved this Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken recipe let us know in the comments below! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls

    Crispy on the outside and packed full of savory sauteed vegetables, these egg rolls will make you forget that take-out place down the street! Jump to Recipe I’ve mentioned a million times by now that you don’t need to rely on take-out when you can whip up your favorite dishes right in your own kitchen. With the current state of the economy, dining out can be quite a luxury that many of us simply can’t justify. Cooking at home not only allows you to save money but also gives you the freedom to experiment with flavors and ingredients, ensuring every meal is just how you like it. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a delicious dish from scratch! Why You’ll Love Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls Healthier Options . We talked a bit about the costs of dining out, but there are a ton of health benefits to making your meals yourself, especially from scratch. Fun . My girls and I enjoy working in the kitchen together and this recipe is fun. Get your kiddos and/or your significant other in the kitchen and have fun creating a tasty meal together! Customizable . You control the ingredients, so you have the power to change things up by using whatever you have on hand or if you need specific dietary measures. What to Serve With Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls If I’m feeding a crowd or we simply want a “little bit of this and a little bit of that” I serve these homemade egg rolls alongside my Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken and a big batch of Cream Cheese Wontons. Advertisement Want More of Our Asian-Inspired Favorites? Easy Beef and Broccoli Skillet Simple Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken Ground Beef and Ramen Korean Bowl Helpful Tips Skip the refrigerated egg roll wrappers and get the frozen ones. I’ve found the refrigerated ones to be really starchy and they tear super easily. I like the Wei Chuan ones I find at one of my local Asian markets. If you can’t find this particular brand, just try using one from the frozen section. Ensure your filling mixture is not too wet. This will cause a soggy texture and will hinder the crispiness of the egg roll wrapper. Adding a small amount of cornstarch can help absorb any excess moisture. Make sure your oil temperature is at least 350 degrees before adding the egg rolls. Don’t overcrowd the pan or fryer. This will cause uneven cooking. Ingredients 2 cups Cabbage, finely shredded 1 cup Carrots, julienned or grated 1 cup Bean Sprouts ½ cup Green Onions, chopped 2 cloves Garlic, minced 1 Tablespoon Ginger, freshly grated 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce 1 Tablespoon Sesame Oil Vegetable Oil for frying Cornstarch (plus 2 Tablespoons water) Salt and Pepper to taste Egg Roll wrappers 1 package (about 20 wrappers) Directions In a large skillet, heat a teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 Tablespoon of grated ginger, stirring for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the 2 cups of cabbage, 1 cup of carrots, 1 cup of bean sprouts, and ½ cup of green onions. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened. Add 2 Tablespoons of soy sauce, remaining sesame oil, and salt and pepper to taste preference. Stir well to combine. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing towards you, like a diamond. Place approximately 2 Tablespoons of the vegetable filling near the center of the wrapper. Roll the corner closest to you over the filling, then fold in the left and right corners towards the center. Continue rolling the wrapper tightly and seal the final corner with a bit of cornstarch slurry to secure the roll. To make a cornstarch slurry, simply mix together water and cornstarch in a small bowl. This will be our “glue” to help keep the egg rolls sealed. In a deep, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for approximately 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally. Remove the egg rolls using a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. How to Bake Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the egg rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray each egg roll with a neutral cooking spray such as olive oil or avocado oil. Bake the egg rolls for approximately 7 minutes. Turn the egg rolls and continue baking for another 5-7 minutes or until the egg rolls are lightly golden and appear crispy. How to Air Fry Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls If using an air fryer to bake these egg rolls, place the egg rolls seam-side down in a single layer on the air fryer tray. Light spray each eggroll with a non-stick cooking spray. Bake at 390 degrees for approximately 7-9 minutes, flipping the eggrolls about halfway through. How to Store Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. How to Freeze and Reheat Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls These Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls can be frozen pre-cooked or after they are baked and cooled completely. Place the egg rolls seam side down on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 1 hour. Remove the frozen egg rolls and place in a freezer-safe storage bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat uncooked egg rolls, allow egg rolls to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Lightly spray the egg rolls with a non-stick cooking spray and place seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated 400-degree oven for 7-9 minutes then turn the egg rolls and bake for an additional 7 minutes. To reheat cooked egg rolls, heat in the microwave for approximately 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Please note that the egg rolls may lose some of their delicious crispiness. For the best results, reheat in a toaster oven or traditional oven for 7-9 minutes then flip the egg rolls and bake for an additional 7 minutes. If you enjoyed this Homemade Vegetable Egg Rolls recipe, let us know by clicking that heart icon at the bottom of the screen, and be sure to share this recipe with a friend! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Caramelized Onion Fried Chicken

    Caramelized onions are sweet, rich, savory, and full of umami flavor. They can also take a lot of time to make which is not ideal on a busy weeknight. Thankfully, this recipe uses my homemade caramelized onion powder making this our new favorite 30-minute meal! Jump to Recipe Plain chicken breasts can be both a blessing and a curse in cooking. It holds the flavor of just about anything and everything, however, there are so many different options that it can become overwhelming to pick a direction. On a typical busy weeknight, I found myself yet again trying to come up with a new way to add flavor to chicken. After checking the spice cabinet, I was inspired by my homemade caramelized onion powder. It reminded me of the early years of marriage when I would coat chicken in store-bought fried onions and bake it. What We Love About This Caramelized Onion Fried Chicken This simple recipe is everything I could have hoped for. Tender, juicy chicken packed with sweet and savory caramelized onion flavor with a crispy, crunchy coating. Friends, it was so good there were no leftovers! Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Onion Fried Chicken Recipe Affordable.  Chicken is typically one of the most budget-friendly meats you can find, making this dish perfect for two or a crowd. Easy to Prepare.  While this recipe has a few steps, they are all very easy and take just a few minutes. Freezer-Friendly.  Buttermilk Fried Chicken can be frozen and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep! Advertisement What to Serve with Caramelized Onion Fried Chicken Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese White Cheddar Loaded Mashed Potatoes Creamy Corn Au Gratin Spicy Italian Roasted Carrots   Helpful Tips Thickness.  To ensure even cooking, use a meat mallet to gently pound thicker parts of the chicken breast to match the consistency of the thinner end. Temperature.  Check the cooked chicken with an internal thermometer to ensure it is completely cooked.  The USDA recommends that cooked chicken have an internal temperature of at least 165°F Keep Warm.  If you're preparing double or triple amounts of this recipe, preheat the oven to 350°F and prep a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire cooling rack. Place cooked chicken onto a prepped baking sheet and continue frying in batches. Once all of the chicken is fried and placed on the prepped baking sheet, place into the oven for 10 minutes or until all of the chicken is heated through completely.   Why Marinate Chicken In Buttermilk Buttermilk is slightly acidic, which helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. The thick consistency of the buttermilk allows the flour mixture to stick better, resulting in a deliciously crispy coating we all love. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can use 2 cups of milk with 2 Tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice. Allow the mixture to rest for 15 minutes before using. Hungry For More Chicken Recipes? Check out these family favorites: Parmesan Ranch Crusted Chicken Three Pepper Chicken Lemon Thyme Garlic Roasted Chicken Advertisement Ingredients 4 boneless, skinless, chicken breasts 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup fine breadcrumbs ½ cup Caramelized Onion Powder , plus 1/3 cup 2 cups buttermilk Salt and pepper to taste ½ - 1-inch vegetable oil Directions Working with one chicken breast at a time, place chicken in a quart-size freezer bag. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until it is even in thickness. In a large, shallow dish, combine buttermilk and 1/3 cup caramelized onion powder. Add chicken to the mixture, pressing each piece into the liquid to ensure all pieces are well coated. In a separate large bowl, combine flour, breadcrumbs, ½ cup caramelized onion powder, salt and pepper. Using a fork or a pair of tongs, remove one piece of chicken from the bowl of buttermilk and place it into the flour mixture. Cover all sides with flour mixture. Then, place the floured chicken back into the marinade bowl and quickly recoat with buttermilk. Return chicken to the flour mixture for a second coating, then place on a plate until all chicken pieces have been double coated with buttermilk and flour mixtures. In a large pan over medium-high heat, add oil and allow approximately 1-2 minutes for the oil to become hot. Carefully, add one piece of coated chicken to the pan at a time. You may need to work in batches if all of your chicken pieces do not fit in the pan. Don't overcrowd your pan! Fry chicken on each side for approximately 3-6 minutes depending on the thickness of the chicken or until the internal temperature is at least 165 degrees. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack over a baking sheet and allow to cool for approximately 3-5 minutes before serving. This chicken is best when served warm. If you have leftovers, package them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I do not recommend freezing this recipe. My homemade Caramelized Onion Powder was made using a Harvest Right Freeze Dryer. If you are interested in a home freeze dryer and want to learn more, check out my review here . Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Homemade Fire Cider

    Each ingredient in this homemade fire cider recipe offers its own unique health benefits. When combined, they create a powerful natural remedy that’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and decongestant all in one! Jump to Recipe The history of homemade remedies, also known as natural or herbal medicine, dates back thousands of years. While some may seem like complete nonsense, others have been known to work wonders. One home remedy we use is homemade fire cider. What is Fire Cider? Fire Cider has been around for many generations but was it popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar  in the 1970s. Fire cider is a pungent home remedy concoction made of all-natural ingredients that are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and help to strengthen the immune system and ward off cold-weather illness. We use both the liquid form and homemade fire cider gummies . What is Homemade Fire Cider Made of? Raw Apple Cider Vinegar:  has been known to aid in digestion, fight infection, and help in clearing out the sinuses. Whole Black Peppercorns: Black pepper contains pepperine, an alkaloid that acts as an antioxidant.  Citrus: offers high values of vitamin C, reduces inflammation, and can help aid in digestion. Lemon Thyme: offers expectorant and antibacterial properties and has been known to help support the respiratory system. Onion and Garlic: both offer antibacterial and antifungal properties and are high in antioxidants. Ginger Root: offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been known to help relieve indigestion. Hot Peppers: such as jalapeno, cayenne, and habanero can help to increase blood circulation, boost metabolism, and support the immune system. Raw Local Honey: offers antibacterial and antifungal properties and has been known to soothe a sore throat. Pure maple syrup is a great alternative to honey. Advertisement Helpful Tips If your garlic turns a shade of blue or green don’t fret! This is completely normal and is caused by an enzymatic reaction between compounds in the garlic and acid in the vinegar. I like to pack down the ingredients in the jar to allow room for as much apple cider vinegar as possible. The amount of vinegar used will vary based on the amount of room left in your jar. Homemade fire cider is fully customizable! You will want to do your own research on ingredients you would like to swap. The original recipe calls for horseradish root and turmeric root. I opt to leave those out. Don’t want to waste the strained ingredients? Try dehydrating them and grinding them down into a homemade seasoning powder! Be sure to check out our Homemade Fire Cider Gummies recipe! Ingredients 3 ½-4 cups unpasteurized apple cider vinegar 2 cups onion, sliced 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced 10-12 cloves garlic ¼ cup fresh lemon thyme 2 whole navel oranges, peeled and wedged 2 whole hot peppers, sliced 10-12 whole black peppercorns ½ - 1 cup raw, local honey or pure maple syrup Directions Pack down all ingredients except for the honey/maple syrup into a clean 1/2-gallon glass jar then cover completely with the apple cider vinegar. Cover the jar with a lid and let sit at room temperature for 4 weeks. Strain liquid into a bowl, pressing the ingredients with the back of a spoon to release as much liquid as possible, and discard everything else. Pour the strained liquid into a clean jar. Add raw honey or maple syrup and stir well to combine. Cover the jar with a lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 year. Alternatively, homemade fire cider can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. The apple cider vinegar allows the concoction to be shelf-stable. Advertisement How to Use Homemade Fire Cider The daily recommendation for an adult is 1/2 tablespoons to 2 tablespoons per day. For acute immune support, it can be taken every 3-4 hours. It is best to take fire cider on its own, but you can also add honey or dilute it with water to make it more palatable. Per the Herbal Academy : “Children older than 12 months can take fire cider. Keep in mind that babies and infants less than 12 months should not have honey because of the potential for infant botulism.  A child’s dosage of fire cider depends on their weight. If a 150 lb adult takes 1-2 tablespoons daily, you can use your child’s weight to determine how much they might take. A 30 lb child, for example, would take about ⅕ of that dose. If the fire cider is a little on the spicy side for a child, you can dilute it with a little water or juice.” If you are pregnant or nursing, please consult your trusted midwife or physician prior to use. Homemade Fire Cider can also be used in homemade salad dressings and marinades. Or try making my Homemade Fire Cider Gummies ! Disclaimer Please note that this information is intended only for educational and informational purposes and should not be used or replaced with medical advice. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information on this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your physician before using this product. If you enjoyed this Homemade Fire Cider recipe, let us know in the comments below! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Homemade Fire Cider Gummies

    Jump to Recipe With cold and flu season in full swing, it’s nice to have something at the ready to knock out those germs. Homemade Fire Cider is a home remedy that I've made for the last couple of years during my suburban homestead journey , and it's one of our favorites for boosting our immune systems. Fire Cider in liquid form can be too spicy for kids and some adults, so having a gummy version is the perfect way to still get in those healing properties. What is Fire Cider? Fire Cider has been around for many generations but was it popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar  in the 1970s. Fire cider is a spicy tonic home remedy concoction made of all-natural ingredients that are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties which help to strengthen the immune system and ward off cold-weather illness. Fire cider is highly concentrated and should be consumed in small amounts, such as a 1-ounce “shot” or mixed with juice. Advertisement Why You’ll Love Homemade Fire Cider Gummies Convenient - As I mentioned before, we camp a lot during the cooler months, and having a few gummies on hand is super convenient. The gummies fit well in our daily pill case and are easy to keep in our backpacks. They're also great if you do a lot of traveling via airplanes. The liquid version of Homemade Fire Cider isn’t allowed, so having it in gummy form is a great way to have it with you on the go! Immune Booster - Homemade Fire Cider Gummies help to strengthen the immune system and ward off cold-weather illness. Kid-Approved- Homemade Fire Cider in liquid form can be a bit much for kids, even if it’s diluted a bit. The gummy version is typically better received by the kiddos while still offering all the health benefits. How to Take Homemade Fire Cider Gummies Children: 1 Gummy per day Adults: 2 Gummies per day If you are pregnant or nursing, please consult your trusted midwife or physician prior to use. *Please see the disclaimer before making or taking this product. Ingredients 1/3 cup Homemade Fire Cider 2/3 cup 100% Apple Juice 4 Tablespoons unflavored beef gelatin ½ cup cold water Directions ​In a small bowl, combine ½ cup cold water and 4 Tablespoons of unflavored gelatin. Gently stir to combine then set aside for about 3-5 minutes. In a medium saucepan warm apple juice and fire cider over low-medium heat for approximately 2-3 minutes. The liquid should be warm but not boiling. Slowly add the gelatin mixture to the warm juice in the saucepan. Stir gently to combine and continue to simmer on low heat for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and allow mixture to cool for just a minute or two. Prepare silicone candy molds by placing them on a flat baking sheet. Using a food-safe dropper, carefully fill the cavities of a silicone candy mold. If you don’t have a silicone mold, you can simply pour the mixture into an 8x8 baking dish and cut into bite-sized pieces once it has completely set. Once all of the cavities are filled in your molds, place them in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. The baking sheet will help to catch any spills. Once gummies are ready, gently pop them out of the candy molds. Place gummies in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Disclaimer Please note that this information is intended only for educational and informational purposes and should not be used or replaced with medical advice. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information on this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your physician before using this product. If you enjoyed this Homemade Fire Cider Gummies recipe, let us know by leaving a comment down below! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Homemade Pico de Gallo

    Simple, fresh ingredients create a flavorful vibrancy to your favorite Mexican dishes! Jump to Recipe We recently hosted a pumpkin carving dinner party at our house and of course, I wanted to serve food to our guests. With a mix of young ones, teens, and adults, I needed a meal that could be customized to each person’s preferences. What’s more customizable than a buffet-style taco bar? To keep things simple, I opted for seasoned ground beef, Mexican Black Beans, and Authentic Mexican Rice. I also prepared some Baked Chicken Taquitos and Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce . But no Mexican dish is complete without a little (or a lot) of Homemade Pico de Gallo! What is Pico de Gallo? Pico de Gallo, also known as Salsa Fresca and Salsa Cruda, is a fresh tomato salsa popular in Mexican dishes. Though Pico de Gallo uses the same ingredients as salsa, it is prepared very differently. Salsa ingredients are typically raw or canned, and are pureed, with a more runny consistency. Pico de Gallo, however, uses raw ingredients that are finely diced or minced to create a chunkier consistency. Advertisement How to Serve Homemade Pico de Gallo Homemade Pico de Gallo is the perfect condiment for warm tortilla chips or as a topping for these delicious family favorites: Slow Cooker Chili Lime Pork Carnitas Spicy Stuffed Bell Peppers The Easiest Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole What Ingredients Are Needed to Make Homemade Pico de Gallo Tomatoes Fresh, paste tomatoes are best. If you substitute, you’ll want to remove as much liquid and seeds from the tomato as possible. If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, try using a smaller variety such as grape or cherry to get that wonderful tomato flavor. Onions and Garlic I love cooking with fresh onions and garlic. They give such a fantastic umami flavor and a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes Jalapeno Peppers Feel free to use your favorite spicy pepper here or leave it out completely for a more mild flavor. Spices When it comes to adding flavor, the right herbs and spices are key. Aromatic powerhouses like cilantro and cumin are sure to add a mouthwatering goodness to every bite! Fresh Lime Fresh lime zest and juice not only add a delicious vibrant flavor, but the acidity will help to bring out flavors from the other ingredients. Salt and Pepper Two simple, budget-friendly ingredients that offer so much to whatever you put them in. We have added a couple of sweet components to this sauce and now we need to add some saltiness and savoriness to help balance everything out. Helpful Tips For Making Homemade Pico de Gallo: Wear gloves when working with hot peppers and wash hands thoroughly. If you prefer a spicier Pico de Gallo, add the seeds and membranes from the peppers. Use a non-reactive bowl, such as glass. Tomatoes contain citric acid, which can react with reactive metals like aluminum or copper, causing a metallic flavor. Allow the Pico de Gallo to rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 1 hour. The longer it rests, the better the flavors will be. Stir well before serving. Ingredients Yield: 3 ½ cups 6 large, Roma tomatoes, deseeded and chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced ½ large red onion, finely diced 1 jalapeno pepper, deseeded and minced 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Zest of 1 lime ¼ cup fresh cilantro ¼ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper Directions In a medium glass bowl, add tomatoes, garlic, onion, and jalapeno. Add in lime zest and juice, fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper. Lightly mix to combine. Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. If you enjoyed this Homemade Pico de Gallo recipe, check out these other homemade condiments: Homemade Tzatziki Sauce Caramelized Onion Powder Sweet and Smoky BBQ Sauce Make-Ahead and Storage Homemade Pico de Gallo can be stored in an air-tight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Sharing Is Caring! If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with someone who also loves delicious homemade food! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Mexican Red Rice (Arroz Rojo)

    A savory and spicy tomato-based rice that is delicious enough on its own or as a side dish to your favorite Mexican dishes! Jump to Recipe Do you know what your love language is? For me, it’s serving others. One way I enjoy serving others is through food. The whole process: planning, buying, preparing, and serving truly brings me joy. If you’re invited into our home, you can bet that I plan to feed you! I mentioned in a previous post that we recently hosted a pumpkin carving dinner party. When it comes to serving food to various ages, in this case, toddlers, teens, and adults, I try to plan food that ticks a few boxes. Is the food budget-friendly? Is it easy to prepare? Is it customizable? I felt a buffet-style taco bar would fit the bill perfectly. And I wasn’t wrong! I mean, who doesn’t love a good taco? Why We Love Mexican Red Rice In addition to my Baked Chicken Taquitos and Mexican Black Beans, I knew I had to make my Mexican Red Rice! This rice is packed full of flavor, but the best part is, it only takes 30 minutes to make. So even on a busy weeknight, Mexican Red Rice is the perfect side dish for Taco Tuesday! What is Mexican Red Rice? A staple in Mexican cuisine, Mexican Red Rice, or Arroz Rojo, is a simple but flavorful side dish made of long grain rice, stock, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. Why You’ll Love This Mexican Red Rice Recipe Budget Friendly - This recipe uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients like rice, stock, and spices to create a flavorful authentic dish. Easy to Prepare - This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, with 20 minutes of that being rest time! Make Ahead of Time - This recipe can be made a couple of days in advance making it perfect for quick weekly meal prep or in preparation for a big gathering. Advertisement Helpful Tips For Making Mexican Red Rice Dutch Oven. I like to use my 6-quart Dutch Oven when making this recipe. Using a heavy-duty pot with a thick bottom will help keep the rice from burning. Saute. Don’t skip sauteing and toasting the ingredients! This helps the rice to absorb all of those delicious flavors. Keep The Lid On. Trust the process! Allow the rice to rest completely for 20 minutes before lifting the lid. This will ensure fully cooked rice with a fluffy texture. Stock. I highly recommend using beef or chicken stock rather than bullion. Stock has a deep flavor and typically less sodium than bullion, especially if you’re using homemade stocks. Gloves. Wear gloves when working with hot peppers and wash your hands thoroughly! Hungry For More Tex-Mex Recipes? Check out these fan favorites! Santa Fe Style Couscous Dirty Jambalaya with Venison Sausage Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce Ingredients 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil 1 medium onion, finely diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 jalapeno, deseeded and minced 2 cups long-grain rice 3 1/2 cups beef stock or chicken stock 2 cups picante sauce (mild or medium) 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 3 Tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped Directions In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, warm oil over low heat. Add onions, garlic, and jalapeno to the oil and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes. Add uncooked rice to the pot. Stirring constantly, sauté for approximately 4-5 minutes or until rice becomes toasted and changes to a light golden color. Add picante sauce to rice mixture and heat through. Again, stirring constantly. Carefully add beef or chicken stock. Add in spices and bring liquid to a boil. Boil for approximately 8-9 minutes then cover pot, turn off the heat, and allow to rest undisturbed for 20 minutes. Carefully remove lid and fluff rice with a fork. Top with cilantro to your desired taste preference. How To Store Mexican Red Rice Allow rice to come just to room temperature and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. How To Freeze Mexican Red Rice Rice freezes beautifully and stores well in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. How to Freeze Dry Mexican Red Rice I like to freeze-dry my leftover cooked rice in my Harvest Right Freeze Dryer. It's great to have on hand for super busy weeknights. It basically just becomes “Minute Rice” and reconstitutes very quickly. I also store some in mylar bags for long-term storage, camping, or traveling. Sharing is Caring! Share this recipe with someone who loves delicious, homemade food! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Creamy Corn Au Gratin

    A creamy, cheesy, savory-sweet side dish that is simple enough for a busy weeknight and elegant enough for any holiday table. Jump to Recipe Each summer I pick up a couple (…or four) bushels of delicious corn from one of my favorite local farms. This particular farm is about an hour and a half away from our home, but it is so worth the drive! We get to enjoy the quiet morning drive in the country, meet some fantastic farmers and workers, and enjoy the deliciousness of locally grown sweet corn. It is a lot of work to process the corn once we get it home and it usually takes us a few days to get it all squared away. Thankfully it becomes a family project that makes it a bit more fun. I like to preserve the corn in multiple ways, freeze-drying , canning , and freezing. This recipe works great for fresh, home-canned, freeze-dried, or store-bought. Why You’ll Love This Creamy Corn Au Gratin This recipe is one of our favorites, especially around the holidays. It starts with that delicious corn and butter, the perfect seasoning blend, cream, and lots of cheese. The best part is that it comes together quickly and is from oven to table in about 30 minutes! What to Serve with Creamy Corn Au Gratin On a busy weeknight, I like to pair this easy side dish with a slow-cooker favorite, Salisbury Steak , classic meatloaf , or homemade fried chicken . It’s also a luxurious addition to the holiday table with sides like roasted potatoes , homemade mac and cheese , and honey butter yeast rolls . Advertisement What Ingredients Are Needed To Make Creamy Corn Au Gratin Butter - The real stuff will give you the most flavor for your dollar. Corn - Fresh, frozen, home-canned, or freeze-dried. Whatever you have works. If you’re using freeze-dried, you’ll want to ensure that it is fully rehydrated before using. Be sure to drain any excess liquid. Seasonings - Simple is the secret to this recipe. You want the flavor of the corn to be the star. I stick to basics like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Heavy Cream - This will help to give that creamy, decadent flavor. Whole milk or even 2% will work here as well, but you may need to increase the amount of flour to help create a thicker sauce. Flour - Just a general all-purpose flour will do the trick. It will act as a thickener for the sauce. Cheese - We love freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago in this dish. You could also use a mild cheddar or for a little kick, Pepperjack. Hungry For More Vegetable Side Dish Recipes? Check out these family favorites! Sauteed Sugar Snap Peas Spicy Italian Roasted Carrots Roasted Ranch Broccoli Ingredients Serves 4-6 2 Tablespoons butter 4 cups corn ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder ¼ - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes ( optional ) 3 Tablespoons flour 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature) 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated 1 cup Asiago cheese, freshly grated 1 Tablespoon parsley Directions Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Reserve ¼ cup each of the Parmesan and Asiago and set aside. In a large, oven-safe skillet,2 Tablespoons of melt butter over medium heat. Add 4 cups of corn, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to skillet and sauté for approximately 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle corn with 3 Tablespoons of flour and mix well to coat corn evenly. Slowly add the 1 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Remove skillet from heat and mix in the 3/4 cup Parmesan and 3/4 cup Asiago cheese. Once the cheese has been well incorporated, spread the corn mixture so that the top is even. Top with the reserved 1/4 cup each of Parmesan and Asiago cheeses and bake uncovered for approximately 30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown. Top with 1 Tablespoon of parsley and cool for 5 minutes before serving. If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider sharing it with someone who loves delicious, homemade food! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Parmesan Ranch Crusted Chicken

    A deliciously crispy fried chicken that is not only full of flavor but is a kid-approved favorite! Jump to recipe Ah, another day, another dinner to be made. Making dinner can become pretty boring if I'm being honest. You'd think it would be simple: just put good food on the table. But it isn’t simple. Because it isn’t just the making of the dinner. It’s coming up with an idea, planning it out, shopping for ingredients, hoping everyone in the house will eat it, and then the cooking… It's a process that never really seems to end, does it? It was during one of these meal-planning ruts that I thought “This is ridiculous! Let’s just go out to eat.” But then of course that comes with its own logistics. “Where do we eat? What’s good? What will I eat there? Will the kids eat something there? How much will it cost?” It really kind of just makes you want to scream, no? Rather than spend my money on what is probably a 200% markup at a restaurant, I knew I could come up with something. I started to think about what our favorite dishes are at our favorite restaurants. That’s when I remembered a steakhouse that offers a Parmesan Crusted Chicken. After a little search, there were several recipes available. I tried out a couple of them, but it never really turned out like I wanted. After altering some of the ingredients, I was able to come up with this recipe and it's exactly what I was looking for! If you are in a “What do I make for dinner?!” rut, I hope this helps. Advertisement Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Ranch Crusted Chicken Recipe Easy Preparation - The prep work is for the breading, and it really just takes a few minutes. Budget-Friendly - I find chicken to be one of the most affordable meats. Kid-Approved - I haven’t met a kid yet who didn’t love fried chicken! What Ingredients Are Needed to Make Parmesan Ranch Crusted Chicken Chicken- Boneless, skinless breasts are what I use for this recipe but feel free to use thighs if that’s your preference. Flour & Breadcrumbs - Just a general all-purpose flour and some Panko breadcrumbs create that delicious crunch. Parmesan Cheese - Freshly grated is best but use what you have on hand. Eggs and Buttermilk - The eggs will act as an adhesive for the breading and the buttermilk will add that delicious tang and help tenderize the chicken. Seasonings - Simple staples like salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and parsley are all you need. Buttermilk Ranch Seasoning- Homemade or the packet works. How To Make Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Seasoning 1/3 cup dry buttermilk powder (I use homemade freeze-dried buttermilk that I grind into powder) 2 teaspoons dried parsley 1 teaspoon dried chives 1 teaspoon dried dill 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 -1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 Tablespoon onion powder Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk to combine. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For this recipe, I used my fresh herbs that I dehydrated with my Excalibur Dehydrator . If you're using fresh herbs, you’ll want to use about 3 teaspoons for every teaspoon of dried. What to Serve with Parmesan Ranch Crusted Chicken On busy weeknights, I like to serve an easy side dish like my White Cheddar Loaded Mashed Potatoes and Simple Sauteed Green Beans . Helpful Tip When Making Parmesan Ranch Crusted Chicken Thickness.  To ensure even cooking, use a meat mallet to gently pound thicker parts of the chicken breast to match the consistency of the thinner end. Double Dredge.  I am a huge advocate for double dredging when it comes to frying things. That extra dip in the batter and flour give an extra crispy crunch. Temperature.  Check the cooked chicken with an internal thermometer to ensure it is completely cooked.  The USDA recommends cooked chicken have an internal temperature of at least 165°F Hungry For More Chicken Recipes? Check out these family favorites: Caramelized Onion Fried Chicken Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Simple Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken Serves: 4 Ingredients 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 4 thin breasts) 1 cup flour 2 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup dried buttermilk Ranch seasoning 2 eggs 1/4 - 1/2 cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon salt 1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dried parsley 1 Tablespoon dried onion powder 1 Tablespoon dried garlic powder ¼ cup olive oil Directions You will need three separate medium-sized, shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix eggs and buttermilk. In the second bowl, mix 2 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Ranch seasoning, 1 cup Parmesan, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, ½ tablespoon onion powder, ½ tablespoon garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of parsley. In the third bowl, add 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup Parmesan, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, ½ tablespoon onion powder, and ½ tablespoon garlic powder. Coat each chicken breast in flour mixture, then egg mixture, and finally in breadcrumb mixture. To ensure each chicken breast is thoroughly coated, press the breadcrumb mixture into the chicken. To double dredge, repeat this process. Over medium-high heat, heat ¼ cup olive oil in a large skillet. Fry each chicken breast for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked through and reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees. Place cooked chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil. Sprinkle your remaining parsley over the chicken and enjoy! If you enjoyed this Parmesan-Ranch Crusted Chicken recipe, let us know in the comments below and share it with a friend who loves homemade, delicious food as much as you do! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • 10 Freezer-Friendly Meals for Any Busy Season

    Meal prepping is an excellent way to ensure that you have healthy meals ready to go at a moment's notice. It saves time, reduces stress, and can help maintain a healthy balanced diet. I’m sharing with you 10 of our favorite meals and snacks! Jump to Meal List Whether you’re preparing for the arrival of a new baby or for a busy season of life, meal prep will be your new best friend! Now that the holiday season is over, we’re getting back to our normal routines of work, homeschooling, and extracurricular activities. The next couple of months will be pretty busy for us. We are diving into cookie season and new adventures with our Girl Scout troop, trying to complete gardening and yard projects at home, and assisting in the daily care of a loved one. Having a few prepped meals on hand will be extremely helpful! Meal prepping doesn’t have to be done all in one day. Sometimes I'll do that if I have the time, energy, and all of the supplies on hand. But most of the time, I just make a double batch of a recipe that I’m already making. There’s really not that big of a difference in time and effort in making a larger batch for us to have a ready-to-eat meal later. Advertisement What Are Some Benefits of Meal Prepping Meal prepping offers numerous advantages, especially during hectic times: ● Time-saving: Having meals or ingredients prepared in advance reduces daily cooking time, allowing you more time to focus on other important tasks. ● Budget-friendly: Planning and preparing meals in advance helps you avoid the temptation of expensive takeout or dining out. ● Healthier eating: Controlling ingredients ensures that meals are nutritious and align with dietary goals. ● Less stress: Knowing that dinner is already planned or partially ready takes the guesswork out of meal times How To Meal Prep Shelf-Stable Items Shelf-stable items are a cornerstone of my meal prep. They provide flexibility and ease in meal preparation. Here are some ideas for what I like to keep on hand: ● Homecanned Proteins: Having homecanned ground beef and chicken means you can quickly whip up a variety of dishes, from tacos to casseroles. ● Homecanned Meals: Prepare and can meals like chili and soups for easy reheating on busy nights. ● Freeze-Dried Foods: Freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, potatoes, and rice can be rehydrated quickly and used in a multitude of recipes, adding nutrients and flavor to meals. Check out our review of the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer and Food Preservation tips and recipes ! Helpful Tips For Preparing Freezer Meals Pre-Prep. Get your ingredients ready ahead of time. Things like diced vegetables or freshly shredded cheese make quick work when meal prepping multiple meals. Favorites. Meal prep what your family enjoys eating. If your family doesn’t love spicy foods, then skip those recipes and double up on something else. Help. Ask for help if you need to. I often ask my family to help me in the pre-prep chores while I get everything else ready. Your family will enjoy these meals so they should help with preparing them! Advertisement What Meals Are Freezer-Friendly 5 Cheese and Italian Sausage Baked Penne My take on the traditional lasagna recipe this dish is packed with five flavorful cheeses, delicious Italian sausage, and affordable pantry staples. Comfy Cozy Slow Cooker Chili This hearty chili is the ultimate comfort food on a cold evening. This chili is so easy to revamp into a completely different meal like chili mac, chili dogs, or loaded chili tater tots! Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels Homemade pizza dough and homemade pizza sauce are the delicious base for these family-favorite pizza pinwheels! Layers of pepperoni, mozzarella, and parmesan are wrapped into a delicious pinwheel shape to create an easy and delicious appetizer, snack, or quick dinner that’s fun to eat! Want To Get A Jumpstart on Breakfast? Check out 10 of our BREAKFAST favorites! Baked Chicken Taquitos These Baked Chicken Taquitos are tortillas filled with seasoned chicken, a creamy mix of sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream, and zesty Salsa Verde and baked until crispy. Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice Experience the comforting and hearty flavors of the South with this authentic Louisiana red beans and rice recipe. Infused with Cajun seasoning and delicious andouille sausage, this dish will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans! Homemade BBQ Meatballs These Homemade BBQ Meatballs are nice and crispy on the outside, and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside coated with a delicious, savory homemade BBQ sauce! Classic Homemade Meatloaf Everyone will be asking for seconds of this traditional family favorite! Perfectly seasoned ground beef topped with a zesty tomato glaze. Dirty Jambalaya with Venison Sausage Spicy. Southern. Classic. Affordable. Two New Orleans favorites, dirty rice, and jambalaya, are combined into a delicious one-pot dinner. If a budget-friendly powerhouse of a meal is what you are looking for, this is it! Spicy Stuffed Bell Peppers These Spicy Stuffed Bell Peppers are packed full of a delicious mixture of spicy Italian sausage, marinara sauce, rice, and savory spices topped with sharp cheddar cheese. Ham and Swiss Pinwheels These quick bites are sure to be a hit at your next potluck, party, or game-day gathering. Filled with sweet honey ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and a sauce that sings, they will have you coming back for more! Hungry for Quick Meals? Check out these family favorites! Smokey Sloppy Joes Cheesy Beef and Noodles Creamy Lemon Chicken and Orzo Meal prepping doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the benefits of having ready-to-eat meals without stretching your budget. Want to help a small family business in a big way? Share our recipes with someone who enjoys delicious homemade food! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Orange Dutch Baby Pancake

    This sweet and tangy pancake offers a fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. It is perfect for a simple breakfast or a special brunch. Jump to Recipe I have a confession to make friends. Our breakfasts have been feeling a little mundane lately. I make a huge batch of homemade pancakes and homemade muffins once or twice per month. And although they're delicious, breakfast time has been feeling a little ho-hum. That is until I made this Orange Dutch Baby Pancake. What is a Dutch Baby Pancake? If you’re unfamiliar with a Dutch Baby Pancake, allow me to introduce you to a deliciously fluffy take on traditional pancakes. This type of pancake has beautiful puffy edges that tower above the rim of a cast iron skillet. It’s made from a simple batter of eggs, milk, flour, and sugar. The magic happens when the batter is poured into a screaming hot preheated skillet. The result is a unique texture of crispy edges and a soft center. Despite its name, this dish actually hails from Germany, possibly evolving from the traditional Pfannkuchen, or German pancakes. It gained popularity in the United States during the 1990s, making breakfast enthusiasts rave about its unique flavor. Why You’ll Love This Orange Dutch Baby Pancake Recipe Quick and Easy . Unlike traditional pancakes that require constant flipping, this recipe is mostly hands-off. Simply mix the ingredients and pour into a hot skillet. The oven will work its magic and you’ll be ready to eat in no time. Impressive Presentation . Once out of the oven, this pancake puffs up beautifully, creating a stunning centerpiece for your breakfast table. Versatility . This recipe can easily be customized to suit your taste. Add a little sweetness with honey or maple syrup or add fresh berries on top for an extra splash of color and flavor! Advertisement Hungry For More Delicious Breakfast Recipes? Check out these family favorites! The Easiest Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Honey Lemon Cake Doughnuts Loaded Hashbrown Casserole Helpful Tips For Making Orange Dutch Baby Pancake Preheat. Do not skip preheating your skillet! This is crucial for the eggs to rise quickly without overcooking. Room Temp. For the best results, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before blending. Rest Period. Allowing the batter to rest for 10-15 minutes will give the gluten time to relax and redevelop. This will help to trap the steam when baking. Ingredients 3 large eggs ½ cup all-purpose flour ½ cup milk 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon orange extract Zest of one orange 2 Tablespoons fresh orange juice Pinch of salt 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter Powdered sugar, for dusting Fresh orange slices, for garnish Directions Preheat your oven to 400°. Place a 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast-iron pan in the oven to heat up. In a large bowl, combine the 3 large eggs, ½ cup flour, ½ cup milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon orange extract, the zest of one orange, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the batter is smooth and frothy. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom and sides as the butter melts. Pour the batter into the hot skillet over the melted butter. Quickly return the skillet to the oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed and golden brown. Remove the pancake from the oven and dust it with powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh orange slices if desired. How to Store Orange Dutch Baby Pancake Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. How to Freeze and Reheat Orange Dutch Baby Pancake Sliced leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or freezer-safe storage bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for 2-5 minutes or until heated through. Want to help a small family business in a big way? Share this recipe with someone who loves delicious homemade food! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

  • Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

    This mouthwatering dish combines the brightness of lemon and the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with the nuttiness of perfectly roasted cauliflower. This recipe is sure to impress even the most reluctant veggie lovers! Jump to Recipe When it comes to vegetables, cauliflower seems to be overlooked, at least in our house. Relegated to the background while other more colorful veggies often grace the table. However, this roasted cauliflower is full of garlic and lemon flavor and topped with mounds of freshly grated parmesan cheese. This side dish deserves its moment in the spotlight! Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Budget-Friendly . Whether you grow it yourself or pick some up at your local grocery store, cauliflower is an affordable vegetable that gives you a lot of bang for your buck! Easy to Prepare . This dish takes about 5 minutes to prepare and requires no fuss to cook. Delicious . This dish is packed with garlic, lemon, and parmesan cheese. What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower The sky is the limit when it comes to pairing this delicious side with an entrée. It is the perfect accompaniment to traditional favorites like Classic Homemade Meatloaf or guest-worthy stars like Lemon Thyme and Garlic Roasted Chicken . Helpful Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower You want to roast in a HIGH heat. This will help the cauliflower to get that gloriously golden caramelization and give it a rich, nutty flavor. Preheat your baking sheet. This helps to get that immediate sear on the florets. Spread the florets in an even layer to ensure each piece is perfectly roasted. Advertisement Want More Delicious Side Dish Recipes? Check out these fan favorites! Buttermilk Fried Okra Creamy Corn Au Gratin Sauteed Sugar Snap Peas Ingredients 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets 3 Tablespoons olive oil 6 cloves garlic, minced 1 lemon, juiced Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 Tablespoons fresh chives, chopped Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Directions Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring they are well coated. Add the 6 cloves of minced garlic, the juice of one lemon, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together thoroughly. Spread the cauliflower evenly on a large baking sheet. Make sure the florets are in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown. Stir halfway through cooking for even browning. Once the cauliflower is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Add a pinch or two of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped chives over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Advertisement How to Store Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. How to Reheat Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower To re-establish the cauliflower’s crispiness, reheat in a preheated 350°F oven until warm. Alternatively, you can heat in the microwave, however, the cauliflower florets will change in texture and will become much softer. If you enjoyed this Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower recipe, let us know in the comments below and by clicking that heart icon at the bottom of the screen! Did you know that we have a newsletter? It features some of our favorite recipes and free printables that are only available to our subscribers! And don’t worry, we hate spam mail and value your time. You’ll receive an initial thank you email, and our newsletter is delivered monthly. You can help our small family business by sharing us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Click here  to sign up for our newsletter today! Advertisement

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