Fruit and oat bars with Middle Eastern flavors

We tried this recipe: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1013145-white-house-fruit-and-oat-bars?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share We made substantial modifications, including Middle Eastern flavors (pomegranate molasses, dates, and pistachios): first, for the syrup, we combined 6 Tbsp canola oil; ¼ cup each light brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, and pomegranate molasses (for a total of 1 cup sweetener). Second, for the fiber, we used 2 cups… Continue reading Fruit and oat bars with Middle Eastern flavors

Simple rotisserie chicken and pasta soup

We did not follow a specific recipe this time, but we threw this together following our instincts. We used ½ a rotisserie chicken, from which we separated the meat from the carcass, loose bones, and skin. First, dice 2 to 3 celery stalks, 1 large carrot, and 1 medium onion. Second, heat 1 Tbsp olive… Continue reading Simple rotisserie chicken and pasta soup

Chocolate snack cake

We tried this easy, egg-free recipe, which uses white vinegar: https://www.food.com/recipe/one-pan-chocolate-snack-cake-313457 We did not have an 8x11" baking dish, so we used a 9" round clear glass baking dish. We increased the baking time to 40 mins (from 30) at 350. (Oct. 2020) We also made powdered sugar icing: https://www.myfoodandfamily.com/recipe/056132/easy-powdered-sugar-icing-recipe

Cheesy beef and pasta in tomato sauce

We tried this recipe: https://www.thekitchn.com/beef-and-shells-22959477 Based on our pantry, we made some modifications: first, we omitted the onion and garlic powder. Instead, after browning the minced beef, we added 1 small diced onion, then 2 mins later 2 minced garlic cloves. Second, we added 2 cups unsalted beef broth and a 15 oz can unsalted tomato… Continue reading Cheesy beef and pasta in tomato sauce

Korean-Chinese sweet and sour sauce (for tang soo yook)

We ordered chicken tang soo yook from a restaurant far from our neighborhood. When we got home, we discovered to our dismay that the restaurant forgot to include the sauce. We made our own sauce following this Maangchi recipe: https://www.maangchi.com/recipe/tangsuyuk. Our modifications: we omitted the wood ear mushrooms and cucumber. We used ½ yellow bell… Continue reading Korean-Chinese sweet and sour sauce (for tang soo yook)

Simple basil pesto

We tried this Ina Garten recipe: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/pesto-recipe-1951665 It was delicious, but a bit too runny. The next time, we will reduce the olive oil by 1/3. (Or perhaps we should have measured the basil leaves more tightly instead of loosely.) We served this pesto with cavatappi and some quartered grape tomatoes. (Sept. 2020)