Rose Story Farm Lemon Cake

 

This is the delicious Rose Story Farm lemon cake recipe using lemons picked from our citrus trees. Patti bakes them fresh the night before for guests in a rose shaped bundt pan.

Cake Mix Ingredients
3 cups flour, sifted

1 cup butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
3 eggs, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons fresh grated lemon rind, packed
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Lemon Glaze Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup confectioner's sugar
1 and 1/2 tablespoons fresh grated lemon rind, packed
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Directions:
Cream 1 cup of butter until light and fluffy. Slowly add 2 cups
sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy. Blend in 3 eggs,
one at a time.

Sift together 3 cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2
teaspoon of salt. Add the flour mixture alternately with 1 cup
buttermilk to the creamed mixture, beating after each addition.
Mix in 2 tablespoons of fresh grated lemon rind and 2 tablespoons
fresh lemon juice. Pour batter into greased and floured bundt pan.

Bake in preheated 325 degree oven for approximately 1 hour and
10 minutes.

To prepare the glaze, blend together 2 tablespoons butter and 1
cup sifted powdered sugar. Mix in 1 tablespoon fresh grated
lemon peel and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, a little at a time
until desired consistency.

Enjoy!

Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

Bow Tie Pasta is also called Farfalle which is the Italian word for butterfly.  This quick dish will feed 4 to six.

Ingredients:  

1 package (16 ounces) bow tie pasta
5 tablespoons butter, divided
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 teaspoon pepper, divided
2 medium yellow summer squash or zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-1/2 cups fat-free milk
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
In a 6-qt. stockpot, cook pasta according to package directions.

In a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add chicken; cook and stir until no longer pink, 7-9 minutes. Add 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper; remove from pan. In same pan, heat 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add squash; cook and stir until tender, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

In a small saucepan, melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and garlic until blended; gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until thickened, 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in cheese and the remaining salt and pepper.

Drain pasta; return to pot. Add chicken, squash and sauce; heat through, stirring to combine.

Eggplant and Burrata Sandwiches With Pepper Relish ~ Vegetarian

Eggplant And Burrata Sandwiches With Pepper Relish 

Eggplant is an excellent vegetarian substitute for chicken or veal to make cutlets for a classic hot Italian sandwich. The crispy rounds are paired with creamy burrata, peppery arugula and a sweet-sour pepper condiment. Instead of focaccia, you could also serve it on ciabatta or crusty kaisers. Serves 4

Ingredients:
1 medium-size eggplant, about 14 oz (395 g)
Salt to taste
Pepper Relish
4 tbsp (60 mL) olive oil, divided
3/4 cup (175 mL) chopped onion
3 jarred roasted red peppers, drained, cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) dice
3 tbsp (45 mL) capers, drained, rinsed
4 tsp (20 mL) raisins
3 tbsp (45 mL) sherry vinegar
3 tbsp (45 mL) honey
3 tbsp (45 mL) water
1/4 cup (60 mL) roughly chopped basil

3/4 cup (175 mL) flour
2 large eggs
3/4 cup (175 mL) bread crumbs
4 cups (1 L) canola oil
1 focaccia, about 7 x 9 inches (18 x 23 cm), cut into four, split
1 container (250 g) burrata, drained, quartered
1 cup (250 mL) loosely packed arugula, divided

Directions:
Slice eggplant into 1/2-inch (1-cm) thick rounds. Season both sides with salt and place on a baking sheet lined with paper towel. Let stand for 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil in a medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Add onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add peppers, capers, raisins, vinegar, honey and water. When it comes to a simmer, cover partially with lid and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil. Cool completely then stir in the basil.

Firmly blot eggplant with paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible. Set aside.

In three shallow dishes, place flour, eggs beaten with 2 tbsp (30 mL) water, and bread crumbs.

In a large heavy-duty pot or Dutch oven, heat canola oil on medium to medium-high heat to 375°F (191°C).

Working in batches, dip eggplant in flour (shaking off excess), then egg (letting excess drip off), then bread crumbs. Fry until well browned and cooked through, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. (Adjust heat as necessary and don’t crowd the pan.) Drain on a baking sheet lined with paper towel.

To assemble sandwiches, lay out four bases of focaccia. On each, place 1/8 of pepper relish, 1/4 of fried eggplant, 1 portion of burrata, another 1/8 of pepper relish, 1/4 of the arugula and top piece of bread. Serve immediately.

Chewy Soft Oatmeal Cookies

Chewy Soft Oatmeal Cookies

This oatmeal cookie recipe makes perfect soft and chewy oatmeal cookies! They’re warmly spiced with cinnamon and filled with rich flavor from butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. And though I often make this recipe with raisins, it works well with a variety of mix-ins. Fold in walnuts, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips! Another reason to love this oatmeal cookie recipe? You don’t need a mixer to make it. The dough is easy to mix up with a spatula and basic pantry ingredients whenever a cookie craving strikes.Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled*
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter, melted**
¾ cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1½ cups whole rolled oats
¾ cup raisins or chocolate chips
½ cup chopped walnuts, optional

Directions:
Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl. 

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla, whisking vigorously.

Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir in the oats, raisins, and walnuts, if using, folding into a tight batter. Set the dough aside for 20 minutes while the oven preheats. 

(Note: If your dough seems too wet to become scoop-able, chill it in the fridge for this 20 minutes and it'll firm up. If your dough is too crumbly, stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons water.)

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to scoop the dough, heaping your scoops slightly to get 20 to 22 balls of dough. Roll lightly in barely damp hands to make them round. Spread out onto the prepared baking sheets and press down lightly on the tops of the dough balls.

Bake until puffed, golden, and a touch underbaked-looking, 10 to 11 minutes. Let cool on the pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes
*Note: These cookies are fairly thick and puffy. If you prefer thinner cookies that spread more, use a scant cup of flour instead of a full cup. I find that cookies made with less flour need an extra minute in the oven.

**Butter substitution: Use melted coconut oil to make these cookies dairy-free.

Coconut Cream Cake

 

Coconut Cream Cake

This is a recipe I have been waiting to create.   Easter will be a perfect occasion. 
Ingredients
Filling
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon table salt
4 large egg yolks
1 cup half-and-half
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon coconut extract
Cake Layers
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups cake flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
Shortening (for greasing pans)
1 cup heavy cream
Fluffy Coconut Frosting
Garnish 
Toasted coconut shavings

Directions:
Prepare Filling: Whisk together first 3 ingredients in a heavy saucepan. Whisk egg yolks and next 2 ingredients in a glass bowl. Gradually whisk egg mixture into sugar mixture. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, 6 to 7 minutes or until mixture just starts to bubble. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 more minute; remove from heat.

Whisk flaked coconut and next 3 ingredients into sugar-egg mixture; transfer to a medium bowl. Place plastic wrap directly on warm filling to prevent film from forming. Let stand 30 minutes; chill 4 to 24 hours.

Meanwhile, prepare Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 350°. Beat 1 cup butter at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer until creamy. Gradually add 2 cups sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add 4 eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.

Stir together cake flour and next 2 ingredients in a bowl. Stir together milk and 1/2 cup coconut milk in a measuring cup. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with milk mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat at low speed just until blended after each addition. Stir in 1 tsp. vanilla and 1/2 tsp. coconut extract. Spoon 

batter into 2 greased (with shortening) and floured 9-inch cake pans.

Bake at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks 10 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks, and cool completely (about 1 hour).

Beat 1 cup heavy cream at high speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into chilled Filling.

Assemble cake: Split each layer in half horizontally with a serrated knife to make 4 layers. Place 1 layer, cut side up, on a serving platter; spread with 1 1/3 cups Filling. Repeat with remaining Cake Layers  and Filling, ending with a Cake Layer, cut side down. Spread top and sides of cake with Fluffy Coconut Frosting.

Dandelion Greens Salad

Dandelion Greens Salad

Dandelion Greens are a Spring Tonic and March 19 is the day I traditionally dig up the greens.  Highly rated for containing iron as well as other nutrients, they do make a tasty dish.  Dandelions are best chosen in tall grass or deep leaves prior to developing buds.  Once the greens develop buds they are bitter.  If the area was spayed with herbicide, do not use the dandelions.  My recipe is identical to Rachael Burkholder's owner of the Amish Fabric Shop, Country Fabrics.  I add boiled potatoes to my dish. 

Ingredients:
4 cups dandelion greens, cleaned and picked over
2 hard boiled eggs
3 slices bacon, chopped and fried crisp
Dressing:
Remove bacon from the drippings to make dressing. Use the bacon grease.
Stir until we blended. 1 egg, 4 teaspoons vinegar, 1 cup water or milk. Add: 1 1/2 teaspoons flour, 1 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons sugar

Stir until well blended, cook until thickened. Cool slightly and pour over greens, egg and bacon and toss. It is delicious!

This is a recipe I learned early in my marriage in the 1960's. My version added boiled cubed potatoes.

Sesame And Miso Cookies

Sesame & Miso Cookies

Miso paste is so good in bakes, especially when white chocolate and tahini are in the mix.

Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
7/8 cup light muscovado sugar
1/3 cup caster sugar
2 tablespoons Tahini
2 tablespoons white miso paste
1 medium egg
1 medium egg whites
2 1/2 cups plain flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp fine sea salt
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/8 cup white chocolate, roughly chopped
1/2 cup sesame seeds
Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling

Directions:

In a large bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat together the butter and both sugars for 2-3 minutes until light (or use a stand mixer). Add the tahini, miso, whole egg and egg white and mix again until smooth. Sift in the flour, bicarbonate of soda, salt and cinnamon; mix again until just combined. Stir in the chocolate until combined. Cover the bowl and chill the dough for at least 2 hours but preferably overnight.

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375*F, and line 2 large baking sheets with baking parchment.  Scoop and roll the chilled cookie dough into even-sized balls, each weighing 2 ounces (Golf ball size.  Place the sesame seeds onto a tray or into a large shallow bowl and roll each in the seeds to coat.

Place 5-6 dough balls on each lined baking sheet, leaving plenty of space for them to spread during cooking. Slightly flatten each with your fingers, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt flakes and bake for 16-18 minutes until golden.

Sharply tap the underside of the baking sheets on the work surface to slightly deflate the cookies. Allow to cool for 5 minutes on the sheets, then transfer to a cooling rack. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Cook’s tip:
To give the cookies neat edges, one at a time, upturn a glass or ramekin over the top of them. With a circular motion, swirl the hot/warm cookies against the inside edge of the glass or ramekin.

Almond Crusted Chicken Breasts

Almond Crusted Chicken Breasts

Ingredients
1 1⁄2 cups sliced almonds
4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless and cut in half
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1⁄4 cup flour
1 large egg, beaten
1⁄4 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 1⁄2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped

Directions
Preheat oven to 425°F. 

Using your hands, lightly crush almonds into small pieces; set aside.

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound the chicken lightly with a mallet or meat pounder. 

Season with salt and pepper, and dredge chicken in flour. Dip chicken in beaten egg. Press each chicken breast in almonds, covering chicken well.

Place on buttered baking sheet.  Bake 12 to 15 minutes.

Meanwhile melt butter, add lemon juice and chopped basil leaves.  Drizzle over cooked chicken breasts.

Meanwhile heat butter, lemon juice and basil in a skillet. Drizzle over cooked chicken breasts.

Peasant Bread

Peasant Bread

Enjoy fresh bread made quickly with a recipe that can be divided  to keep one on hand and one in the freezer.  Stimulate appetites with "fresh baked bread aroma" in your home at mealtime.

Ingredients
4 cups (482g) All-Purpose Flour
2 teaspoons kosher salt or 1 1/2 teaspoons table salt
2 teaspoons sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry or instant yeast
2 cups (454g) lukewarm water
Softened unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dishes

Directions:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add the water and mix until the water is absorbed and the dough comes together in a sticky ball.

Cover the bowl and set aside in a warm spot to rise for 1 to 1 1/ 2 hours, until the dough has doubled in bulk.

Place a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat it to 425°F. Use the butter to generously grease two 1-quart oven-safe bowls or a 3-quart casserole dish (for one large loaf).

Use two forks to deflate the dough by releasing it from the side of the bowl and pulling it toward the center. Rotate the bowl as you deflate, turning the mass into a rough ball. To make a single large loaf, pick up the mixing bowl, turn it over, and plop the dough into the larger casserole dish.

To make two small loaves, use your forks to separate the dough down the center, dividing it into two equal pieces. Use the forks to lift each half of the dough into the prepared bowls. If the dough is wet and hard to handle, try lightly greasing your hands and transfer each half to a bowl by hand.

Don't cover the dough. Let it rise on the countertop in a warm spot for 10 to 20 minutes, until the top of the dough just crests the rims of the small bowls, or is almost doubled in the larger casserole dish.

Bake the bread for 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to 375°F and bake for 17 to 20 minutes more for smaller loaves, or 25 to 30 minutes more for a single large loaf. When golden brown all over, remove from the oven and turn the bread out onto a cooling rack.

Store, well wrapped, at room temperature for several days; freeze for longer storage.

Anita's Nut Roll.

Anita's Nut Roll

Barbara's former co-worker and very dear friend Anita who drove to Tahoe to visit and bring her Christmas wishes with the most wonderful Nut Roll.  What a fabulous friend!

Ingredients:

Soak a handful of raisins in hot water to plump

Chop 8 cups walnuts, set aside.

Mix and allow to proof:
1/4 cup warm milk
1 pkg yeast
1 teaspoon sugar

In a small bowl:
Whisk 3 egg yolks beaten (save egg whites for later use.) with
1 cup plus 1 tablespoon half and half, set aside

Measure in a large bowl:
4 1/2 cups flour 
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
2 sticks butter

                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Directions for dough;
Work 2  sticks softened butter into flour  into flour mixture:  Use hands to blend.  

Add proofed yeast mixture of yeast, sugar and milk, and mixed egg yolk, and half and half: mix well. 

then add to flour mixture creating the dough.

Knead about 10 minutes until all butter is well incorporated in dough.
Separate into 4 rounds of dough; allow to rest until double in size

Meanwhile mix: 
8 cups finely chopped walnuts
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla
Toss to coat well.

Drain raisins and pat dry.

When ready, roll dough thin to 12" X 18" rectangle on a lightly floured surface.                                                                         

Pat down firmly 2 cups of nut mixture to the ends of dough.   Next sprinkle a few handful of the plumped golden raisins which have 

been patted dry. Generously drizzle honey.  Begin to roll so that your finished roll is approximately 18" X 3".  Place seam side down on parchment paper lined baking sheet.  Check that the ends of each roll are sealed.

Brush top with whipped egg whites   Let set for one hour in a draft 

free space.   Bake at 325*F for 35 to 38 minutes.  When cool, dust with confectioners sugar.

Chicken Kiev ~ Chicken Kyiv

Chicken Kyiv

A dish with a long history, Chicken Kiev is being amended to Chicken Kyiv by supporters of Ukraine to show respect for the country. The switch moves from the Russian spelling of the Ukrainian capital to its local spelling. A classic dish that consists of a breaded and fried chicken breast filled with a flavorful buttery filling, Chicken Kyiv has a fascinating history that traces back to 19th-century Russia. Despite its name, the dish is actually believed to have been first produced in France as “côtelette de volaille à la Kiev,” which translates in English to “chicken cutlet Kiev style.”

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided into 1 tablespoon portions and frozen

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs

Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions:

Combine in mixing bowl chicken, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion around frozen piece of butter into log shape. Place logs on parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.

Prepare three shallow bowls or plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, one with breadcrumbs. Remove chicken logs from freezer. Roll 

a log in flour to coat lightly, then dip into beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated. Roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently so crumbs stick. Repeat process with each chicken log.

Add vegetable oil to cover bottom of large skillet, about ¼ inch, and turn to medium heat. Carefully place breaded chicken logs in hot oil and fry about 3−4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer to paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve hot with choice of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.

Brotchen ~ Cherished German Rolls

Brotchen 

Cherished German Rolls

Start your day the German way — with freshly baked crusty bread rolls. Brötchen are the ultimate treat: crispy and crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside — just like the ones from a traditional German bakery.  They’re a true German staple, often hard to find abroad — but now, you can make them yourself!
Ingredients:
2 teaspoon instant yeast
2 teaspoon honey
350 ml water. (1 1/4 cups)
500 g all-purpose flour 
1 ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
2 tablespoon poppy seeds
2 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 tablespoon sunflower seeds

Directions:
Prepare the bread/roll dough: Add the honey to lukewarm water and stir until fully dissolved. Then add the yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until a thick, sticky dough forms. Place the dough in a lightly oiled container, and leave it to rest in the fridge 8-12 hours.

Shape the Breadrolls The next morning, preheat your oven. For best results, use a pizza stone, but a standard baking sheet will work too. Carefully turn the container upside down and let the dough gently slide out. Use a knife or dough scraper to divide the dough into 6–8 equal portions. Shape each roll by folding the corners into the center to form a round shape. Optional: If you'd like to add seeds (e.g., sesame, poppy, or sunflower), pour some onto a plate. Brush the top of each roll lightly with water using a pastry brush, then dip the damp surface into the seeds.

Bake the rolls until crusty: Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Before baking, place an oven-safe bowl filled with water on the bottom rack of your oven. The steam will help create a beautiful, crusty exterior on the rolls. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Almond Streusel Cake

Almond Streusel Cake 

Transform a plain cake into an irresistible delight with a crumbly streusel topping. Makes 16 servings. 

Ingredients:
Streusel:
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup flour
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon orange zest
Cake:
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups AP flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
 2/3 cup orange juice
Glaze
1/2 cup confectioners sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons orange juice

Directions:

Preheat oven 350*F.  Grease a 9 or 10 inch tube pan.

To prepare the streusel,  in a medium bowl, mix together brown sugar, nuts, and flour.  Stir in the butter and zest.

To prepare the cake, in a large mixer bowl, set the mixer on medium speed, beat together stage ands butter until fluffy.  Add eggs 1 at a time beating well after each addition.  Beat in zest and vanilla.

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder and baking soda.  

Reduce mixer speed to low.  Alternately beat flour mixture and orange juice into egg mixture, beginning and ending with flour.

Spoon half of the batter into prepared pan.  Sprinkle with  half of the streusel mixture.  Top with the remaining batter and streusel.

Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean 30 to 35 minutes.  Transfer pan to a wire rack to cool completely

To prepare the glaze, in a cup stir together the confectioners sugar and orange juice until smooth.

Turn the cake out on a serving plate, placing it right side out.  Drizzle with the glaze.

Note:  For a different streusel mixture, substitute chopped walnuts for the almonds.

Homemade Beef Stroganoff With Steak

                                       Beef Stroganoff with Steak                                                                                                            Creamy beef stroganoff made with tender sirloin steak, fresh mushrooms, and a rich sour cream sauce. No canned soup, just real ingredients and big comfort food flavor.  Serves 12

Ingredients: 
4.5 pounds Sirloin Steak
Salt and Pepper
l6 tablespoons vegetable oil
12 tablespoons butter
36 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
3 large onions, sliced
6 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 cup flour
3/4 cup dry white wine
6 cups beef broth
1.5 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 cup sour cream
9 cups egg noodles, cooked

Directions

Trim excess fat from the beef and slice it across the grain into thin, 1-inch strips. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and half the beef. Sear for about 30 seconds, just until browned. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining beef.

Reduce the heat to medium. Add half the butter to the skillet.  Once melted, add the mushrooms and toss to coat. Sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add the remaining butter and the onions. Cook until soft and translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Add the wine and scrape the bottom of the pan. Cook for 1 minute to let the alcohol evaporate. 

Pour in half the beef broth and stir, scraping up any remaining bits. Add the rest of the broth, along with the Worcestershire sauce and mustard.

Return the beef and its juices to the skillet. Stir to coat and let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 3 minutes, just until the beef is heated through.

Reduce the heat to low, stir in the sour cream and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and serve over hot buttered noodles.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Scones

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Scones

Perfectly moist and flaky pumpkin chocolate chip scones.  Ready in only 30 minutes and perfect for on-the-go mornings or brunch!

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter cold
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mini chocolate chips
2 tablespoons heavy cream for brushing (optional)

Directions:
In a large mixing bowl, use a spoon to stir together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined.

Grate 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold) using a cheese grater and stir into the flour mixture OR cut butter into small pieces and use a pastry cutter to cut the fat into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal or sand.

Slowly stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. The mixture should be crumbly. Then stir in 1 cup mini chocolate chips until just combined. 

Turn the dough out onto a clean countertop and use your hands to gently form it into a ball.

Press the dough flat into a 2-inch thick disc. Use a butter knife or bench scraper to cut the circle into 8 wedges.

Place cut scones on an un-greased baking sheet and brush the tops with 2 tablespoons heavy cream.

Bake at 425 degrees for about 12-15 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned.

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Onion Soup Gratinee

Onion Soup Gratinee

Much of the credit for what we know today as onion soup we can give credit to Julia Child. If you followed Julia when she was featured on TV weekly shows, she wasted nothing but turned it into such tasty dishes. French Onion Soup was her creation.

French Onion Soup has to be on the top of my list for favorite soups. This recipe by Julia Childtakes a little longer than many simpler recipes, but it’s well worth the time spent. So get out your apron, and prepare to indulge in a classic French favorite.

Ingredients:

5-6 Cups Yellow Onions, sliced thin
1/2 Yellow Onion, raw
4 tablespoons Olive Oil, 

About 8 slices French Bread,
2-3 tablespoons Cogniac, (optional)
4 ounces Parmesan Cheese,
12 ounces Swiss Cheese, Grated,
Salt and Pepper
1/2 teaspoon Sage, Ground,
1 Bay Leaf,
1 cup White Wine,
6 cups Beef Stock,
3 tablespoons Flour
1/2 teaspoon Sugar,
2 tablespoons Butter,
1 tablespoon Cooking Oil,

Directions:
Heat a heavy, oven-safe, stock pot over medium-low heat and add the cooking oil once the pot is hot. Melt the butter into the hot oil.  Stir the sliced onions into the oil/butter mix, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the stock pot and cook for around 20 minutes checking to make sure they aren’t burning. Onions should be clear and very tender once finished. Turn up the heat to medium-high, and add the sugar and 1tsp salt. Continue cooking while stirring until onions are thoroughly browned (caramelized).

Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in 3 Tbsp flour. Cook 2-3 minutes until flour forms a thick paste (add more butter if needed).  Stir in 1 cup of beef stock, and stir heavily for a couple seconds.

Add the rest of the stock, wine, sage, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees F. Drizzle both sides of french bread slices with olive oil, and place on a baking sheet. Cook the bread in the oven for 15 minutes on each side.

Chicken Fricassee or German Huhnerfrikassee

Chicken Fricassee

Creamy, comforting, and filled with tender chicken and vegetables—this German fricassee is a cozy classic.  A recipe from Germany!

Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
½ cup cream
½ cup peas
½ cup diced carrots
Salt, pepper,  

Lemon juice

Directions:
Melt butter in a saucepan, mix in flour to make a roux.

Gradually whisk in broth, then the cream.

Add vegetables and simmer 10 minutes.

Stir in chicken and heat through.

Season with salt & pepper and a splash of lemon juice.

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Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows

Soft Ricotta Almonds Pillows

Ingredients:
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (well drained)
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp almond extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Sliced almonds (for topping)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the ricotta, egg, and almond extract and beat again until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft, sticky dough forms.
Scoop heaping teaspoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Top with a few sliced almonds.
Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges are just golden and the tops are set.
Cool on a rack, then dust generously with powdered sugar.
Rena’s Tip: These cookies only get softer and more flavorful the next day. Perfect with a cozy cup of tea or a quiet moment after dinner.

Hefezopf. Braided Yeast Bread

 

Hefezop  "Braided Yeast Bread"

My German translation is: Hefe is yeast and zopf is braid.  Apparently it is a bread commonly found in German kitchens or Bakery.  

Ingredients:

4 cups flour 

1/2 - (3/4) cup sugar

1 tsp salt 

2 tsp vanilla

2 eggs

1 stick butter

1 pkg yeast

lemon zest( grated  (1 tsp)

1 cup milk lukewarm

1/2 cup raisins or cranberries (dried)

some slivered almonds

coarse sugar crystals

Directions:

Ingredients must be at room temp. (Eggs/Butter)!

Make a soft but solid dough. Add a bit of flour if dough is sticky. Knead by hand and let rise in a covered dish until doubled.

Divide dough into 3 sections and roll into 3 logs you can braid! 

Brush braid with an eggyolk mixed with a tsp milk. Decorate with sugar and almonds - let rise again (warm oven helps).   

Bake for 35 min at 325F oven.

Molasses Cookies With Hazelnuts

Molasses Cookies with Hazelnuts

Nothing goes better with soft delicious molasses cookies than a tall glass of cold milk.
Ingredients

Cookies: 
1/2 cup molasses 
1/2 cup honey 
3/4 cup brown sugar 
1 large egg 
1 T (15 g) lemon juice 
1 tsp (3 g) lemon zest 
2¾ C (340 g) flour, plus flour for dusting 
½ tsp (2 g) baking soda 
1 tsp (2½ g) each ground cinnamon, cloves, allspice + nutmeg 
⅓ C (80 g) candied citron, diced *optional
⅓ C (40 g) hazelnuts, chopped

Icing
1 c. sugar
1/4 cup water or milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup confectioners sugar.

Garnish

Spiced almonds

Candied citron or ginger

Melted chocolate

Directions:

In a medium saucepan, bring honey and molasses to a boil. Remove from heat and cool; stir in brown sugar, egg, lemon juice and zest. 

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda and all spices, and stir in molasses mix, citron and hazelnuts. Cover; chill overnight.

Preheat oven to 350°F (167°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. 

On a floured, hard surface roll out a small amount of chilled dough to ¼-inch (6-mm) thick. If dough is sticky, use more flour. Cut dough in 2-inch (5-cm) rounds; transfer to prepared baking sheets. Bake 10-12 minutes. 

Meanwhile, make icing by heating sugar and liquids in a small saucepan (do not boil). Remove from heat; stir in confectioners’ sugar. If icing crystallizes, reheat and add water or milk.

Transfer cookies to rack and while still hot, brush with icing and decorate with almonds, citron or ginger; or, let cool completely and drizzle with melted chocolate. Store in sealed container.

• Prep time: 15 minutes.
 
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes.
 
• Makes 12 servings. 

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