The Pioneer Woman's Easy Golden Rule for Making Legendary Beef Chili

The Pioneer Woman’s Easy Golden Rule for Making Legendary Beef Chili


I’ll never make it another way.
READ MORE…

Read More
Are “Bloated” Meat Packages Safe? The Answer Is More Complicated Than TikTok Suggests

Are “Bloated” Meat Packages Safe? The Answer Is More Complicated Than TikTok Suggests


You may want to think twice.
READ MORE…

Read More
I Refuse to Open Another Carton of Chicken Stock — I Use This Way More Delicious Staple Instead

I Refuse to Open Another Carton of Chicken Stock — I Use This Way More Delicious Staple Instead


It’s less than $5.
READ MORE…

Read More
Easy and Handy Pepper Steak Recipe for Take-Out Style Meals

Easy and Handy Pepper Steak Recipe for Take-Out Style Meals

# Classic Pepper Steak Recipe

This timeless pepper steak recipe brings a beloved takeout dish right to your home! Strips of juicy steak are soaked in a flavorful homemade sauce, then stir-fried alongside sautéed bell peppers and onions.

## Flavor Profile
– **Flavor**: Tender beef in a delicious garlic-soy sauce with a hint of peppery zest.
– **Skill Level**: This meal cooks in a single pan in under 30 minutes. So simple!
– **Budget Tip**: Opt for economical cuts of beef; they turn out tender and succulent.
– **Swaps**: Instead of rice, serve it over ramen noodles, egg noodles, or cauliflower rice.
– **Serving Suggestions**: Accompany it with side dishes like garlic bok choy, asparagus, or Szechuan green beans for extra appeal.

## Ingredient Tips for Pepper Steak
– **Beef**: My preferred cut for this pepper steak is top round, but cost-effective flank steak and top sirloin steak are also excellent choices. Slice the meat against the grain to break down the fibers and aid in tenderizing it.
– **Veggies**: Use green and red bell peppers for a splash of color, but any peppers will work well. Yellow, white, or red onion slices contribute some crunch and taste.
– **Sauce**: Fresh ginger and garlic yield the best flavor. Soy sauce, Worcestershire, and honey provide sweetness to complete the sauce. Mirin, a rice wine, is optional, but enhances the umami flavor beautifully.

## Variations
– Consider adding asparagus, baby corn, snap peas, or sliced carrots.
– Incorporate chili paste or Sriracha for greater heat. Even a dash of black pepper will elevate the flavor.
– Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace half the soy sauce with beef broth.
– Swap out honey for white or brown sugar.

## How to Make Pepper Steak
1. Combine sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk together (full recipe below).
2. Sauté onion & peppers in a large skillet until soft. Move to a plate.
3. Sear the beef strips and cook until just browned.
4. Return onion & peppers to the skillet along with the sauce. Cook until the sauce thickens.

**PRO TIP**: Marinating the beef strips in the sauce (excluding the cornstarch) for up to 24 hours will tenderize the meat and enhance the flavor. After marinating, remove the beef and pour the marinade into a bowl. Then whisk in the cornstarch.

## Leftovers
Keep leftover pepper steak in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze in zippered bags or a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in 30-second intervals in the microwave until warmed through.

## Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 193
– **Carbohydrates**: 32g
– **Protein**: 3g
– **Fat**: 7g
– **Sodium**: 851mg
– **Potassium**: 261mg
– **Fiber**: 2g
– **Sugar**: 23g

This pepper steak recipe offers a scrumptious and quick option to enjoy a classic meal at home. Ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion!

Read More
Chicken Corn Chowder Prepared Creamy Without Heavy Cream

Chicken Corn Chowder Prepared Creamy Without Heavy Cream

    **Title: Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Without Heavy Cream: A Tasty Alternative**

    Chicken corn chowder is a cozy and filling dish ideal for any time of the year. Conventionally, this chowder gets its creaminess from heavy cream, but for those seeking a lighter option that still delivers on flavor, there are multiple substitutes to create that rich, creamy mouthfeel.

    **Why Avoid Heavy Cream?**

    While heavy cream is delectable, it is also rich in fat and calories. By swapping it out for healthier alternatives, you can relish a lighter chowder that’s gentler on the waistline without losing any flavor. This approach is especially advantageous for individuals with dietary restrictions or those looking to cut back on saturated fat.

    **Ingredients for Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Without Heavy Cream:**

    – 2 tablespoons of olive oil
    – 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
    – 1 medium onion, chopped
    – 2 cloves of garlic, minced
    – 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels
    – 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
    – 4 cups of chicken broth
    – 1 cup of milk (or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk)
    – 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
    – 1 cup of Greek yogurt or pureed cauliflower
    – Salt and pepper to taste
    – 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
    – 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
    – Fresh parsley for garnish

    **Instructions:**

    1. **Sauté the Chicken:** In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and fry until browned on every side. Take the chicken out and set it aside.

    2. **Cook the Vegetables:** In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent. Mix in the corn and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.

    3. **Add Broth and Spices:** Pour in the chicken broth, and add the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are soft, around 15-20 minutes.

    4. **Create the Creamy Base:** In a small bowl, combine the milk and flour, whisking until smooth. Gradually add this mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. This will aid in thickening the chowder.

    5. **Incorporate the Creamy Element:** To achieve the creamy consistency, mix in the Greek yogurt or pureed cauliflower. Both choices provide a luxurious, creamy texture without the inclusion of heavy cream. Greek yogurt contributes a hint of tang, whereas pureed cauliflower brings a more neutral taste.

    6. **Combine and Serve:** Return the cooked chicken to the pot and allow it to heat up. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once everything is well mixed and warmed, your chowder is ready to be served.

    7. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Serve the chowder in bowls, embellish with fresh parsley, and enjoy while hot.

    **Tips for Success:**

    – **Greek Yogurt:** Choose full-fat Greek yogurt for a more decadent texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature when adding it to avoid curdling.
    – **Cauliflower:** Steam or boil the cauliflower until tender, then blend until creamy. This can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator.
    – **Non-Dairy Milk:** If opting for non-dairy milk, select unsweetened varieties to preserve the savory flavor of the chowder.

    **Conclusion:**

    This chicken corn chowder recipe provides a comforting and creamy experience without needing heavy cream. By utilizing ingredients such as Greek yogurt or pureed cauliflower, you can indulge in a lighter version that’s both healthy and delicious. Ideal for a cozy dinner or a filling lunch, this chowder is sure to become a staple in your cooking collection.

    Read More
    The $2 Aldi Grocery I’m Stocking in My Pantry All Fall Long

    The $2 Aldi Grocery I’m Stocking in My Pantry All Fall Long


    Can’t beat that price.
    READ MORE…

    Read More
    Zucchini topped with Parmesan Cheese

    Zucchini topped with Parmesan Cheese

      Zucchini with Parmesan Cheese: A Tasty and Wholesome Pairing

      Zucchini, a flexible summer squash, enjoys global favor in kitchens because of its subtle taste and versatility in numerous recipes. When combined with Parmesan cheese, zucchini evolves into a delightful dining experience that is both wholesome and pleasing. This article investigates the advantages of zucchini, the function of Parmesan cheese, and methods to prepare this tasty combination.

      **Nutritional Advantages of Zucchini**

      Zucchini is low in calories yet abundant in vital nutrients, making it a fantastic option for health-focused individuals. It serves as a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, along with potassium and dietary fiber. These nutrients enhance digestion, bolster the immune system, and promote heart health. Furthermore, zucchini has antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, benefiting eye health.

      **The Importance of Parmesan Cheese**

      Parmesan cheese, celebrated for its deep and nutty flavor, enriches any dish. It is a firm, aged cheese that is high in protein and calcium, crucial for maintaining bone health. Parmesan also features phosphorus, which collaborates with calcium to ensure robust bones and teeth. While Parmesan contains higher sodium and fat levels, its strong flavor allows for minimal usage, letting you savor its taste without excess.

      **Making Zucchini with Parmesan Cheese**

      There are countless ways to relish zucchini with Parmesan cheese, from simple sides to intricate main dishes. Here are several favored techniques:

      1. **Baked Zucchini Parmesan Chips**: Cut zucchini into thin slices, coat with olive oil, and dust with a blend of grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and your preferred herbs. Bake until golden and crunchy for a healthy snack or starter.

      2. **Zucchini Parmesan Casserole**: Layer sliced zucchini with marinara sauce and shredded Parmesan cheese in a baking vessel. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake until bubbly and golden. This meal presents a delightful vegetarian substitute for lasagna.

      3. **Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan**: Cut zucchini lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing side.

      4. **Zucchini Noodles with Parmesan**: Employ a spiralizer to form zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” and sauté them with garlic and olive oil. Top off with a hearty sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a low-carb pasta option.

      **Conclusion**

      Zucchini with Parmesan cheese is a tasty and wholesome pairing that can be relished in diverse forms. Whether baked, grilled, or sautéed, this combination provides a wonderful interplay of flavors and textures. By adding zucchini and Parmesan cheese into your meals, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that aligns with a healthy lifestyle.

      Read More
      Easy Recipe for Applesauce Pancakes

      Easy Recipe for Applesauce Pancakes

      These fluffy pancakes with applesauce are tender and infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and allspice, creating the ultimate comforting breakfast! A handful of simple ingredients results in the most soft, delicious pancakes you’ll ever whip up.

      “These are the finest pancakes you’ve made,” Alex remarked after sampling these comforting applesauce pancakes. What began as a culinary adventure with a jar of applesauce soon transformed into our new go-to pancake recipe – and that’s quite a statement, given that I’ve crafted numerous pancake recipes through the years, ranging from my well-loved cottage cheese pancakes to banana oatmeal pancakes!

      The charm of these applesauce pancakes is found in their moisture and fruity essence that harmonizes beautifully with warm spices. The applesauce ensures a delicate crumb that remains soft even as the pancakes cool down!

      Key ingredients for applesauce pancakes

      These fluffy pancakes were inspired by a jar of applesauce I had in my refrigerator, originally purchased for these chilled applesauce cookies (which, by the way, are also incredibly tasty).

      I pondered, what to do with extra applesauce? Why not make pancakes! This fruit puree offers the ideal soft and moist consistency for flapjacks. They’re perfect for a comforting breakfast and simple enough for anyone (especially kids!). Here’s what you’ll require:

      – Applesauce: Any store-bought option works wonderfully: I prefer unsweetened. Homemade applesauce is also suitable.
      – All-purpose flour: This recipe is optimized with all-purpose flour, but 1-to-1 gluten-free flour can be used as an alternative.
      – Warm spices: The blend of cinnamon and allspice lends these pancakes their defining cozy taste.
      – Light brown sugar: It enhances the apple flavor more effectively than granulated sugar. If necessary, you can use granulated sugar or maple syrup instead.
      – Fresh Egg: Adds structure and richness. For vegan pancakes, I suggest a flax egg.
      – Neutral Oil: I usually opt for either grapeseed oil or a “mild flavor” olive oil. Avoid using strongly flavored oils like extra virgin olive oil, which may overshadow the subtle apple taste.

      My tried-and-true method for cooking applesauce pancakes

      Making pancakes seems like an easy feat: anyone can handle that! But honestly: it’s an area where many home cooks stumble. If cooked at excessive heat, the applesauce pancakes will char on the outside and be undercooked on the inside. Here are several tips for achieving perfectly cooked pancakes:

      – Low and slow is essential! Set the heat to low, or just medium-low. Cook them gently, and they’ll emerge perfectly done on the inside and beautifully golden on the outside. Don’t fret if it seems to take a while: that extra minute or two is worth it!
      – Flip the pancakes when bubbles appear and burst. Wait until bubbles form on the surface and begin to pop. Believe me: this method is reliable every single time!

      Imaginative serving suggestions

      Once those beautifully golden pancakes are cooked: it’s time to adorn them! In my opinion, a drizzle of maple syrup is ideal. However, if you have a bit more time, here are some other ideas for topping applesauce pancakes:

      Storage and reheating guidelines

      One of the wonderful aspects of these applesauce pancakes is their excellent storage and reheating properties, making them ideal for meal prep or hectic mornings.

      – Cooled pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
      – They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until completely frozen, then move them to freezer bags with the air expelled.
      – To reheat, you can place them in the toaster, set on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 10 seconds.

      Dietary information

      This recipe for applesauce pancakes is vegetarian. For vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free options, use the substitutes mentioned in the recipe below. For gluten-free needs, check out Apple Cinnamon Pancakes, which use oatmeal.

      Easy Applesauce Pancakes

      This applesauce pancakes recipe yields moist and cozy-spiced results! The inclusion of fruit puree creates perfectly fluffy flapjacks.

      Author: Sonja Overhiser
      Prep Time: 10 minutes
      Cook Time: 10 minutes
      Total Time: 20 minutes
      Yield: 8 medium pancakes
      Category: Breakfast
      Method: Stovetop
      Cuisine: Pancakes
      Diet: Vegetarian

      Ingredients:

      – 1 cup all-purpose flour
      – 1 teaspoon cinnamon
      – ½ teaspoon allspice (optional)
      – 1 tablespoon baking powder
      – 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
      – ½ teaspoon kosher salt
      – 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
      – 1 tablespoon neutral oil
      – ¾ cup applesauce
      – 2/3 cup milk of choice (2% or non-dairy milk)

      Instructions:

      1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all

      Read More
      Can’t Decide Between a Nespresso or Keurig? This Beautiful New Coffee Maker Is Like Having Both

      Can’t Decide Between a Nespresso or Keurig? This Beautiful New Coffee Maker Is Like Having Both


      It could save you up to $145!
      READ MORE…

      Read More
      I Finally Found a “Game-Changing” Way to Keep My Cutting Board Collection Super Tidy

      I Finally Found a “Game-Changing” Way to Keep My Cutting Board Collection Super Tidy


      It’s so smart.
      READ MORE…

      Read More