So it's been a pretty crazy month, but then most of my days have some level of craziness involved. What can I say, I'm pretty NUTS on my best days. Thus, I thought I'd touch base and share some of my recent excapades...
I've been seeing an ad on TV for a new "Buffalo Chicken Sandwich" which I thought looked interesting, so when Jason commented on the same ad, I set out to create that spicy morsel for our dinner that night. Simply by eyeballing the ad, I decided how I would prepare my version. I began by searching for a buffalo sauce recipe, as I couldn't find the one a now deceased friend had shared with me. I finally decided on a simple version while a chicken breast thawed out. When the chicken was adequately thawed, I pounded the crap out if, forming a thin slab, which I then cut into two serving pieces, and marinated it in the sauce I had made, refrigerated of course! Shredded some lettuce, and set aside the bottle of ranch dressing.
After baking the chicken pieces drenched in the sauce, I prepared the sandwiches... Lettuce, buffalo chicken, topped with ranch dressing, and the bun top. Salad on the side, and we had a very flavorful meal.
My next crazycook endeavor was to convert some plain leftover rice into a side dish. I had some cleaned broccoli that needed to be cooked, and originally was thinking a pasta salad, but then remembered the rice. Pulled out the rice, par steamed the broccoli and chopped it, added some sweet yellow and orange peppers - ya know, those little ones about the size of a jalapeno. I also had a partial can of cheddar soup, so I tossed it all with a little milk, and created what I guess might be called a "cheesy confetti rice." (???) Whatever, we had some tonight with some leftover ham, and it was very tasty!
Many years ago, when my friend Denise still lived in Los Angeles, I used to call her for cooking advice... At that time, I could not cook anything without following a recipe. Words of wisdom she shared, were to "think outside the box." I have done that over time, as my skills and confidence have grown. The result is being that I can now pull a bunch of leftovers out of the frige, and create some kind of a new meal, or side dish from the bits and pieces, or to even take a leftover entrée and create and entirely new meal out of it!
I'm sure I have much more to share from the past few weeks, but right now the old grey cells are tiring, and frankly I just can't think of any other adventures. So, for now I'm going to call it a night, and bid you all adieu.
Be well!
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Monday, September 19, 2016
Readin' and Writin'
Over the past years I've become a shop-a-holic (via the net) and of course, an extremely avid cook! End result being that I search many a recipe, and read reviews and comments on many sites. I'm beginning to think that most of the population is illiterate! The comments and reviews can be down right stupid, for crying out loud!
When rating a product recently purchased, do these people READ the directions? Then they rate it as a piece of crap, as they didn't follow directions... What kind of BS is that I wonder? I bought one unit that uses a plastic pitcher. Reviewer claimed the first use, the pitcher cracked and began leaking. I've used mine for perhaps 5 years, run the pitcher on the lower rack of the dishwasher more times than I can count. Still, no sign of any damage from use, or cleaning...
Just this evening I printed a recipe for banana bread and then read some of the comments... Someone asked the blog writer if there was flour in the recipe, as there was no mention... I looked at my "copy" to see "2 cups flour (grandma used... {brand name.})
No wonder I rarely write a review, and try to double check any comment before posting - for spelling and wordage... I guess the folk sometimes write before THINKING! Or even READING, I can only suppose.
Seems like a sad state if you ask me, though I was an English major in college and perhaps too critical... Not that you'd know it by the way I speak at times, and the slang I often use. Still, stupidity can irritate me at times...
Be well!
When rating a product recently purchased, do these people READ the directions? Then they rate it as a piece of crap, as they didn't follow directions... What kind of BS is that I wonder? I bought one unit that uses a plastic pitcher. Reviewer claimed the first use, the pitcher cracked and began leaking. I've used mine for perhaps 5 years, run the pitcher on the lower rack of the dishwasher more times than I can count. Still, no sign of any damage from use, or cleaning...
Just this evening I printed a recipe for banana bread and then read some of the comments... Someone asked the blog writer if there was flour in the recipe, as there was no mention... I looked at my "copy" to see "2 cups flour (grandma used... {brand name.})
No wonder I rarely write a review, and try to double check any comment before posting - for spelling and wordage... I guess the folk sometimes write before THINKING! Or even READING, I can only suppose.
Seems like a sad state if you ask me, though I was an English major in college and perhaps too critical... Not that you'd know it by the way I speak at times, and the slang I often use. Still, stupidity can irritate me at times...
Be well!
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Happy Days?
I would have to answer "YES!" In fact, it's been a pretty good month!
First, I managed to chase down a long lost friend a while ago. Best we can figure last time we had contact was somewhere in the 1990's! We all sat down to dinner here the other evening. He and I got somewhat caught up on the past 20 ish years, while I pulled together and then during, a rather sumptuous meal. I had prepared Lasagna, cooking the sauce days ahead in the pressure cooker, assembled and baked fresh that day. I also made garlic bread from a French loaf, and tossed salad on the side. I had planned a dessert, but alas, ran out of time before getting that together, though it was not greatly missed.
Our reunion began when I found some of Patrick's posts on Facebook. There hadn't been recent activity, but I tried anyway... and was soon "friended." A few weeks later, we were both online at the same time, so I msg'd him, to which he replied, much to my glee. From there, we exchanged phone numbers, chatted one night, and got together. Had a brief chat tonight... I will call him and invite him again soon!
My second piece of good news this month was also within a week or so. Latest bloodwork showed an improvement in my kidney functions! It's been a long year and painfully slow recovery... Good news is, that the number that's been spoken most often over these months is the creatinine level, which should be below 1.5 in a healthy body. When taken to the hosp. ER July of last year, I was up to 12.0. After one round of dialysis, and complete new prescription regimen for my other long term ailments, my diagnosis was chronic stage 3 kidney failure. After the fact, the dialysis port was removed, and some dietary changes, numbers have continued to improve... My primary doc was amazed, as he shared the news that my creatinine was 1.51 last check, which would have been about 3 weeks ago when the blood was drawn. .01 and I'm back in the "normal" range! High end of, but I'll take it for sure!
So, YES, it's been happy days, and a happy month! I also got a phone call yesterday from daughter of one of my folks' good friend/neighbor, and she's back out here in Phoenix again. Something must have come up, as she didn't stop by today as she thought she might. I'm in hopes of catching up on her mom's well being and just what's been happening for the last couple of years.
Again, happy days! Be well!
First, I managed to chase down a long lost friend a while ago. Best we can figure last time we had contact was somewhere in the 1990's! We all sat down to dinner here the other evening. He and I got somewhat caught up on the past 20 ish years, while I pulled together and then during, a rather sumptuous meal. I had prepared Lasagna, cooking the sauce days ahead in the pressure cooker, assembled and baked fresh that day. I also made garlic bread from a French loaf, and tossed salad on the side. I had planned a dessert, but alas, ran out of time before getting that together, though it was not greatly missed.
Our reunion began when I found some of Patrick's posts on Facebook. There hadn't been recent activity, but I tried anyway... and was soon "friended." A few weeks later, we were both online at the same time, so I msg'd him, to which he replied, much to my glee. From there, we exchanged phone numbers, chatted one night, and got together. Had a brief chat tonight... I will call him and invite him again soon!
My second piece of good news this month was also within a week or so. Latest bloodwork showed an improvement in my kidney functions! It's been a long year and painfully slow recovery... Good news is, that the number that's been spoken most often over these months is the creatinine level, which should be below 1.5 in a healthy body. When taken to the hosp. ER July of last year, I was up to 12.0. After one round of dialysis, and complete new prescription regimen for my other long term ailments, my diagnosis was chronic stage 3 kidney failure. After the fact, the dialysis port was removed, and some dietary changes, numbers have continued to improve... My primary doc was amazed, as he shared the news that my creatinine was 1.51 last check, which would have been about 3 weeks ago when the blood was drawn. .01 and I'm back in the "normal" range! High end of, but I'll take it for sure!
So, YES, it's been happy days, and a happy month! I also got a phone call yesterday from daughter of one of my folks' good friend/neighbor, and she's back out here in Phoenix again. Something must have come up, as she didn't stop by today as she thought she might. I'm in hopes of catching up on her mom's well being and just what's been happening for the last couple of years.
Again, happy days! Be well!
Saturday, August 6, 2016
Bug in My Craw....
Or is it, bee in my bonnet, or rather crudely, a bug up my a$$, regarding television advertising these days... I can't begin to share just how STUPID advertisers must think that we (as a group of people,) thinking that their ads would make us run out and purchase their products! I doubt I'll be able to cite just how many ads offend my intelligence and common sense, but here are a few examples - that is unless once I get on a roll, they just don't stop rolling into my brain!
First that comes to mind, is the TP commercial, where there are a number of younger bears in the "den/family room" chatting, and the one pipes up about their brand of TP, and states "it cleans so well, you could wear your underwear a second day...." Have you ever seen ANY of these bears, young or old, wearing any clothing? Let alone undies! Besides, don't bears live and.... in the woods, rather than a suburban house? Ok, it may be "cute," but still, makes me feel that the advertisers think I'm so gullable that I'll switch brands, because the bears are "cute."
Another for batteries names a guy who ALWAYS reaches for their batteries, because they last the longest lasting, and the most dependable. If the frickin battery is dead, who cares what brand it is... Either way, you're obiviously still in the dark! Until a battery is made that lasts 70 years or longer, a dead battery is useless, and even then... This also goes for other necessities like light bulbs, and toilet paper... If you're left in the dark, or worse, on the pot with no paper, you're up the proverbial creek!
I'll make it a point to stop here, though I could carry on, but I think I've stated my gripe, and thanks for reading! For now, I'll move on to another topic!
I had the pleasure of speaking to my sis this afternoon, which I always appreciate, but don't call her very often as her life is even more hectic than my "crazy" world! She surprised me after we'd caught up on all of the family chit chat, when our conversation turned to the circus this year's election has become. Now, I DETEST politics, as I just don't understand the system, and just "how" it's supposed to WORK for the many of us who are middle to lower class citizens, but that's another story, which I refuse to get into in any forum.
Anyway, what surprised me is though she and I have differing opinions regarding "left" and "right" wing advocates, that this time around we're mostly on the same page. I stress, "mostly!" Over the past months, I've wondered if could or should move to Canada - NO, it's too damn cold. Mexico? Well, they do have the cartels, but at least it's warmer there! She laughed, and shared that just a few days ago she was talking to someone about moving to Belize, of all places - not that I haven't checked out property prices there, myself!
So, we had both agreed that that getting out of the large cities that we each live in, and moving out to the middle of "nowhere," and going mostly off the "grid" is sounding pretty good. Were it not for my current health issues, and those of her hubby, I do believe that we all would jump at the chance to "get the hell out of Dodge!" So, I will dutifully cast my vote, not that I believe that makes a damn bit of difference in the long run... cross my fingers, hope for the "best" and hope that I'm not living in a box under a freeway overpass any time soon!
Well, now I feel better! Still terrified for "our" well being, but better - FOR NOW! Seems that these days the world is on a self destruct mission... but that's simply my humble opinion! (Now I'm sounding like my dad, when he was my current age, lol!)
Be well, and leave a comment if you wish!
First that comes to mind, is the TP commercial, where there are a number of younger bears in the "den/family room" chatting, and the one pipes up about their brand of TP, and states "it cleans so well, you could wear your underwear a second day...." Have you ever seen ANY of these bears, young or old, wearing any clothing? Let alone undies! Besides, don't bears live and.... in the woods, rather than a suburban house? Ok, it may be "cute," but still, makes me feel that the advertisers think I'm so gullable that I'll switch brands, because the bears are "cute."
Another for batteries names a guy who ALWAYS reaches for their batteries, because they last the longest lasting, and the most dependable. If the frickin battery is dead, who cares what brand it is... Either way, you're obiviously still in the dark! Until a battery is made that lasts 70 years or longer, a dead battery is useless, and even then... This also goes for other necessities like light bulbs, and toilet paper... If you're left in the dark, or worse, on the pot with no paper, you're up the proverbial creek!
I'll make it a point to stop here, though I could carry on, but I think I've stated my gripe, and thanks for reading! For now, I'll move on to another topic!
I had the pleasure of speaking to my sis this afternoon, which I always appreciate, but don't call her very often as her life is even more hectic than my "crazy" world! She surprised me after we'd caught up on all of the family chit chat, when our conversation turned to the circus this year's election has become. Now, I DETEST politics, as I just don't understand the system, and just "how" it's supposed to WORK for the many of us who are middle to lower class citizens, but that's another story, which I refuse to get into in any forum.
Anyway, what surprised me is though she and I have differing opinions regarding "left" and "right" wing advocates, that this time around we're mostly on the same page. I stress, "mostly!" Over the past months, I've wondered if could or should move to Canada - NO, it's too damn cold. Mexico? Well, they do have the cartels, but at least it's warmer there! She laughed, and shared that just a few days ago she was talking to someone about moving to Belize, of all places - not that I haven't checked out property prices there, myself!
So, we had both agreed that that getting out of the large cities that we each live in, and moving out to the middle of "nowhere," and going mostly off the "grid" is sounding pretty good. Were it not for my current health issues, and those of her hubby, I do believe that we all would jump at the chance to "get the hell out of Dodge!" So, I will dutifully cast my vote, not that I believe that makes a damn bit of difference in the long run... cross my fingers, hope for the "best" and hope that I'm not living in a box under a freeway overpass any time soon!
Well, now I feel better! Still terrified for "our" well being, but better - FOR NOW! Seems that these days the world is on a self destruct mission... but that's simply my humble opinion! (Now I'm sounding like my dad, when he was my current age, lol!)
Be well, and leave a comment if you wish!
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Life of a Crazy Person!
I've been absent for some time, but that's cuz I've been busy... My last post was about the purchase of my new pressure cooker, which I'm playing with multiple times each week, cranking out all sorts of "experiments" day after day! How fun is that? I'm definitely still "learning" how to use this new appliance, but must admit that I can prepare an entire meal, without heating up the kitchen too much, which is a major thing here in AZ this time of year. We're used to it, but I fear that there are many of you in the mid country who aren't! That's according to the weather news I'm seeing on the tv.
Meantime, I'm checking in on a friend's kitty a day or three each day. She was called away to CA to help her older sister, so when her younger sis can't make it over, I am filling in as surrogate "mom" for Patches. She's a hateful kitty, but is beginning to come around.
My most recent claim to fame, is this evening's dinner. A friend had brought over some fresh produce that he didn't think he'd be able to use, which included "apple bananas." I'd never heard of such a beast, but low and behold, here I have two - which I certainly didn't want to go to waste. Having absolutely no idea what to do with these, I put on my thinking cap. Tonight, we had a pancake dinner... I made "banana" pancakes (for the first time ever) accompanied by bacon and scrambled eggs. The apple bananas are friggin' awesome! I could have cared less about the other items on the menu... and just filled up on pancakes!
So... despite the heat, I think I need to fire up the smoker again, for a second time around, and smoke a ham, or whole chicken, or some such - or both?
Till next time, be well!
Meantime, I'm checking in on a friend's kitty a day or three each day. She was called away to CA to help her older sister, so when her younger sis can't make it over, I am filling in as surrogate "mom" for Patches. She's a hateful kitty, but is beginning to come around.
My most recent claim to fame, is this evening's dinner. A friend had brought over some fresh produce that he didn't think he'd be able to use, which included "apple bananas." I'd never heard of such a beast, but low and behold, here I have two - which I certainly didn't want to go to waste. Having absolutely no idea what to do with these, I put on my thinking cap. Tonight, we had a pancake dinner... I made "banana" pancakes (for the first time ever) accompanied by bacon and scrambled eggs. The apple bananas are friggin' awesome! I could have cared less about the other items on the menu... and just filled up on pancakes!
So... despite the heat, I think I need to fire up the smoker again, for a second time around, and smoke a ham, or whole chicken, or some such - or both?
Till next time, be well!
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Pressure Cooker
Over the past few years, I've become interested in a more simple, old time lifestyle. I don't recall mom ever canning anything, but dad did put in a vegetable garden every year... Summers and I would end up spending a week in the boonies with our uncle and family. In my mind, we were the "city kids," and cousins were the "county folk." I distinctly remember aunt and cousins working diligently in the kitchen, prepping freshly grown vegs etc for the canner. So, I bought a water bath, and when I can get a great deal on fruit, I've learned to can jams, including marmalade made from our own bitter orange trees. Then I moved on to a stove top pressure canner, and cook/can all of my own dried beans just to mention my last effort - 5 lbs of navy beans. 12 pints of baked beans, and more in the frige waiting to go...
It was my ex-mother in law who introduced me to pressure cooked meals. She had a full time job, days as an operating room nurse, three kids to feed, and a hubby who worked second shift at Oldsmobile. The cooker was a workday answer to a tasty, quick meal come dinner time, to which I was invited often.
Last week (July 12, to be exact - Amazon's Prime Day!) I ordered an electric pressure cooker... I've thought about this for some time, as my pressure canner will indeed "cook" foods, but the thing is big enough to for a food kitchen, cafeteria, or the like! It's also rather awkward to clean, once used. My new "toy" can be used as pressure cooker, slow cooker, for rice, makes yogurt (so it says...) and has a 6qt capacity - more than I need for just the two of us, but trust me, in this heat, if I can cook once, and eat multiple meals, I'm all for saving energy and minimizing heat generation in the kitchen, it's a "go."
So, I placed the order, and waited an agonizing 48 hours for delivery! Opening the box, I identified the parts included, followed the "before first use" directions, and performed the recommended test run, though I think I added far too much water (directions a tad confusing...) so it took longer than predicted, but at least I know it works. What's first on my list? Boneless/Skinless chicken breasts. I've got green grapes, and thought they'd make a great chicken salad sandwiches one of these hot nights. The others? Once cooked there's a myriad of recipes I can think to make out of them, even if it means freezing for later use!
From there? I guess I'll learn as I go, and learn as I find recipes... any fav's you'd like to share with me? Leave a comment!
It was my ex-mother in law who introduced me to pressure cooked meals. She had a full time job, days as an operating room nurse, three kids to feed, and a hubby who worked second shift at Oldsmobile. The cooker was a workday answer to a tasty, quick meal come dinner time, to which I was invited often.
Last week (July 12, to be exact - Amazon's Prime Day!) I ordered an electric pressure cooker... I've thought about this for some time, as my pressure canner will indeed "cook" foods, but the thing is big enough to for a food kitchen, cafeteria, or the like! It's also rather awkward to clean, once used. My new "toy" can be used as pressure cooker, slow cooker, for rice, makes yogurt (so it says...) and has a 6qt capacity - more than I need for just the two of us, but trust me, in this heat, if I can cook once, and eat multiple meals, I'm all for saving energy and minimizing heat generation in the kitchen, it's a "go."
So, I placed the order, and waited an agonizing 48 hours for delivery! Opening the box, I identified the parts included, followed the "before first use" directions, and performed the recommended test run, though I think I added far too much water (directions a tad confusing...) so it took longer than predicted, but at least I know it works. What's first on my list? Boneless/Skinless chicken breasts. I've got green grapes, and thought they'd make a great chicken salad sandwiches one of these hot nights. The others? Once cooked there's a myriad of recipes I can think to make out of them, even if it means freezing for later use!
From there? I guess I'll learn as I go, and learn as I find recipes... any fav's you'd like to share with me? Leave a comment!
Monday, June 27, 2016
June 26th, 1990
Do you remember where you were on that date? If you were in Phoenix AZ, I think you would. Fortunately for me, it was a day off, I was living with my (now) ex-wife. Back then, I was rather skinny, and due to the heat, running around in only a pair of shorts.
This was the day that Phoenix set some all time records for "high heat." Early afternoon the temperature soared, and at some point I heard on the radio that the airport had been shut down... we were at 122F !! Seems to me that there were no incoming, or outgoing flights for a few hours.
We have just come somewhat close to repeating that record, though while hitting 119F a few days ago, this year, we skated past that record setting day with only 106F, I believe. I still feel that it's going to be a long, hot summer, despite it being a "dry heat!" I also won't be surprised if we have a very wet and productive monsoon season this year...
It was many years later, that I learned the reason for the airport closure. I'd never heard of "heat" causing travel interruptions... Apparently, the hotter it gets, the longer the runway needed for a plane to lift off the ground, and the professionals had no guidelines to predict if the runways at Sky Harbor Int'l were long enough... Also, I learned that jet engines are (or were,) only tested to 121F. Thus, airport closure, until the temp dropped....
Got to run all, I'm fading fast... Don't think I'll see the sunrise this morning! Be well!
This was the day that Phoenix set some all time records for "high heat." Early afternoon the temperature soared, and at some point I heard on the radio that the airport had been shut down... we were at 122F !! Seems to me that there were no incoming, or outgoing flights for a few hours.
We have just come somewhat close to repeating that record, though while hitting 119F a few days ago, this year, we skated past that record setting day with only 106F, I believe. I still feel that it's going to be a long, hot summer, despite it being a "dry heat!" I also won't be surprised if we have a very wet and productive monsoon season this year...
It was many years later, that I learned the reason for the airport closure. I'd never heard of "heat" causing travel interruptions... Apparently, the hotter it gets, the longer the runway needed for a plane to lift off the ground, and the professionals had no guidelines to predict if the runways at Sky Harbor Int'l were long enough... Also, I learned that jet engines are (or were,) only tested to 121F. Thus, airport closure, until the temp dropped....
Got to run all, I'm fading fast... Don't think I'll see the sunrise this morning! Be well!
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Summer Supper
It has been an interesting day, once again, and dinner was delayed for a short while as a dear friend stopped by... she really needed to decompress after the folks she had interacted with much of the day. I'm always here at times like this, as heaven knows, I've had my share of them....
I had taken out what I thought was some rather large, raw shrimp. I thought "no problem," they thaw quickly, and once cooked and chilled a bit, I'll make a cold salad of some sort or other... Boy was I surprised! I was lucky that it turned out to be imitation crab, which I thought "close enough, and once thawed, ready to eat!" I added some of it to leftover spaghetti, whipped up a Catalina French type dressing, and called it the entrée. Along side, I made garlic bread from a hoagie roll, and set out some multi-bean salad. Enjoyed it immensely, but I'll bet it will be better tomorrow for lunch!
So, there you have my last minute, impromptu meal for this evening!
Be well, friends!
I had taken out what I thought was some rather large, raw shrimp. I thought "no problem," they thaw quickly, and once cooked and chilled a bit, I'll make a cold salad of some sort or other... Boy was I surprised! I was lucky that it turned out to be imitation crab, which I thought "close enough, and once thawed, ready to eat!" I added some of it to leftover spaghetti, whipped up a Catalina French type dressing, and called it the entrée. Along side, I made garlic bread from a hoagie roll, and set out some multi-bean salad. Enjoyed it immensely, but I'll bet it will be better tomorrow for lunch!
So, there you have my last minute, impromptu meal for this evening!
Be well, friends!
Friday, June 24, 2016
Smoked Chicken
I know... many of you have been waiting for me to get off my ass, and chat about last week's first attempt EVER at using a smoker. Well, here it is, guys!
While I was cautioned (by blurbs on the net) that hickory wood is too strong a smoke for chicken, that's what I had, so that's what I used! After the fact, I would say that I have to agree, and have since procured some Applewood chunks for next time I'm using a more "delicate" meat.
According to my two willing taste testers, and of course myself (my own worst critic!) the meal turned out wonderfully! Yes the flavor was rather strong, but I'm now prepared for another round of chicken!
I'm very happy with my smoker. I simply swapped the propane tank from grill to smoker, added water and the soaked wood chips, and lit the fire, about 30 minutes before I would have the leg quarters ready to cook. I sprinkled them liberally with a mix of salt (not much, due to my kidney issues....) pepper, and paprika. Onto the cooking grids, they went. Smoking time was about 3 hours total for approx. 8 lbs of chicken. I had hoped to put on a small pork roast also, but alas I was so pooped from getting this far, that I said "later." I needed only once to check the wood/water, adding no extra, despite the fact that the wood had all burned. I'd also read that most of the smoke flavor is achieved within the first hour... I did check the temp more often, and frequently had to adjust first down, then up, down, etc. Maybe someday I will find a "happy medium" setting, but each time, it was either too hot, or way cool... Experimentation, and experience should help me out.... Right? Well, I'd like to think so... So, IF our weather ever cools down, I'm ready to smoke a ham, and when I get a good deal on a turkey... and of course that pork roast, but I'm finding that there's so much room in the smoker, I'd really like to "load it up" each time, and deal with the cooked meat after the fact.
I'm also told that I can smoke veggies, salt, and all sorts of other things... (thanks, Laurrie P!) I might even try some fish sometime! Wonder what smoked cod would taste like?
So, friends, there you have the story of my first attempt at using a smoker! Till next time, be well!
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Firing up the Smoker
Sadly, I've been dragging my feet around "Casa de Crazy..." I've been wanting to try out the new smoker, but having never used on of these contraptions I feel like a fish out of water. I did however, thaw out about 8 lbs of chicken leg quarters, and a pork roast. Will tomorrow be the day?
The weather folk are predicting record breaking heat beginning Saturday thru at least Monday. If I'm going to do this, guess I'd best get off my butt and DO it! Am I prepared? I believe I am. I've got an almost full propane tank, a bag plus of hickory chips, the chicken/pork, and of course all of the ingredients/seasonings for the recipe I found. For the chicken, I'm expecting 2, or 3 hours, maybe a bit longer to cook. Not sure about the pork, or if there will even be room for it, after all, I've never used a smoker!
The recipe I'm going to try uses a dry seasoning mix, smoke the chicken, and for the last hour baste with a sauce of oil, vinegar and hot sauce. Not too sure about the sauce, but the reviews I read were all positive, so what the hell? Get daring, I'm telling myself! The "rub" is a mix of salt, pepper, and paprika... a do-able blend right out of my well stocked seasoning cabinet.
If you have any experience, insights, or thoughts, PLEASE share with me! I am certainly entering uncharted waters, here.
Up all night again! Been perusing other smoker info, and now I'm getting all jazzed up to tackle a multi meal marathon. If the smoker will hold everything, I've got the chicken sorted out, directions for the pork roast, and suggestion for smoking to aging ears of corn on the cob I've got standing by. Hope I can get up and "going" early enough to pull this off by dinner time tomorrow! If this all comes together, next up will be a ham... Just HAD to come back and add this paragraph.
Be well, friends!
The weather folk are predicting record breaking heat beginning Saturday thru at least Monday. If I'm going to do this, guess I'd best get off my butt and DO it! Am I prepared? I believe I am. I've got an almost full propane tank, a bag plus of hickory chips, the chicken/pork, and of course all of the ingredients/seasonings for the recipe I found. For the chicken, I'm expecting 2, or 3 hours, maybe a bit longer to cook. Not sure about the pork, or if there will even be room for it, after all, I've never used a smoker!
The recipe I'm going to try uses a dry seasoning mix, smoke the chicken, and for the last hour baste with a sauce of oil, vinegar and hot sauce. Not too sure about the sauce, but the reviews I read were all positive, so what the hell? Get daring, I'm telling myself! The "rub" is a mix of salt, pepper, and paprika... a do-able blend right out of my well stocked seasoning cabinet.
If you have any experience, insights, or thoughts, PLEASE share with me! I am certainly entering uncharted waters, here.
Up all night again! Been perusing other smoker info, and now I'm getting all jazzed up to tackle a multi meal marathon. If the smoker will hold everything, I've got the chicken sorted out, directions for the pork roast, and suggestion for smoking to aging ears of corn on the cob I've got standing by. Hope I can get up and "going" early enough to pull this off by dinner time tomorrow! If this all comes together, next up will be a ham... Just HAD to come back and add this paragraph.
Be well, friends!
Friday, June 10, 2016
Beet Juice?
First, I must confess.... Raised in the Midwest (mostly) by a father grown up on a farm, we have always been pretty much meat/tater eaters. Veg's and fruits were more of a teaser - a garnish, perhaps?
So, I'm on a mission to improve our eating habits! First, I must resume shopping at the stores on a regular basis, rather than relying on delivery. Do I need to explain? I am healthy enough to leave home and shop - but when it's 115F in the shade (if one can find any!) it's just too easy to stay in and hunch over the puter while placing an order...
I also enjoy gardening, but in the above said climate, not only is it difficult to be motivated to drag the hose around the yard, not to mention that it takes gallons of water, but after all of that, the plants do finally burn up in the heat. The argument is valid however, to garden in the cooler growing season, which we are fortunate to have out here.
Now, back to my mission... I've been researching blood pressure v. fruits and vegetables. Now, at a few of the sites I've looked at, beet juice keeps being mentioned. What I'm in a quandary over is if the juice is great at battling the systolic number, would eating a beet have a similar effect? (Or is it affect? Can never remember that one, for some reason.....) While the cogs of my brain are spinning out of control trying to process this new information, I am also forced to consider issues of diet and the kidneys. Both issues strongly recommend low or no salt, kidneys; sugar, caffeine, nuts... well I've shared all that with you already....
So, for now, that's about it.... Time to decide what to do for dinner... I'm sure this line of thought will become a regular topic of mine for a long time, as I continue to expand my knowledge!
Till next time, be well!
So, I'm on a mission to improve our eating habits! First, I must resume shopping at the stores on a regular basis, rather than relying on delivery. Do I need to explain? I am healthy enough to leave home and shop - but when it's 115F in the shade (if one can find any!) it's just too easy to stay in and hunch over the puter while placing an order...
I also enjoy gardening, but in the above said climate, not only is it difficult to be motivated to drag the hose around the yard, not to mention that it takes gallons of water, but after all of that, the plants do finally burn up in the heat. The argument is valid however, to garden in the cooler growing season, which we are fortunate to have out here.
Now, back to my mission... I've been researching blood pressure v. fruits and vegetables. Now, at a few of the sites I've looked at, beet juice keeps being mentioned. What I'm in a quandary over is if the juice is great at battling the systolic number, would eating a beet have a similar effect? (Or is it affect? Can never remember that one, for some reason.....) While the cogs of my brain are spinning out of control trying to process this new information, I am also forced to consider issues of diet and the kidneys. Both issues strongly recommend low or no salt, kidneys; sugar, caffeine, nuts... well I've shared all that with you already....
So, for now, that's about it.... Time to decide what to do for dinner... I'm sure this line of thought will become a regular topic of mine for a long time, as I continue to expand my knowledge!
Till next time, be well!
When the "shoe drops..."
So many times in my lifetime I've been faced with obstacles, loss, sadness, even overwhelming happiness on occasion. Human emotions run wild during our daily lives. Each day we deal with stress, frustration and a myriad of other issues, that's simply a "fact of life." I have found one way to decompress, and I hope that this may give peace to anyone who tries it!
Whether I'm "down," or "up..." if I need to just unwind, I turn to music! I find one of my favorite artists, and just sit back and listen for a while... Somewhere within your realm of availability, you WILL find someone singing that special song or songs, that will battle your emotions, and bring you back to your "centered self." I promise!
I just sent a dear friend a link to a song on youtube.com that I thought she might enjoy when she reads my email. She recently lost a lifelong friend and is suffering with her grieving process... perhaps listening to my song will help lift her heart, if only for a while, that she might make decisions whether to return from the US to England, to attend the funeral. My song... Josh Groban singing "To Where you Are..." Since I listened to this, and decided to remind her that "we" are out here for here, I'm continuing to listen to Josh, and I'm finding my tension/stress melt away....
Please, if you've read this, and think it might help you from time to time, say "hi." Just click at the bottom of the post on comments and say hi... I'd really appreciate it!
Be well, one and all, and put on some music if you think it will help "lift you up!"
Whether I'm "down," or "up..." if I need to just unwind, I turn to music! I find one of my favorite artists, and just sit back and listen for a while... Somewhere within your realm of availability, you WILL find someone singing that special song or songs, that will battle your emotions, and bring you back to your "centered self." I promise!
I just sent a dear friend a link to a song on youtube.com that I thought she might enjoy when she reads my email. She recently lost a lifelong friend and is suffering with her grieving process... perhaps listening to my song will help lift her heart, if only for a while, that she might make decisions whether to return from the US to England, to attend the funeral. My song... Josh Groban singing "To Where you Are..." Since I listened to this, and decided to remind her that "we" are out here for here, I'm continuing to listen to Josh, and I'm finding my tension/stress melt away....
Please, if you've read this, and think it might help you from time to time, say "hi." Just click at the bottom of the post on comments and say hi... I'd really appreciate it!
Be well, one and all, and put on some music if you think it will help "lift you up!"
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Needing help with recipes for a Smoker
My new smoker arrived a week early, which I had no issue with, but now I'm faced with learning how to use it... The instruction booklet describes the "method," but contains no actual recipes, so if you have any insight to share, I'd love to hear from you!
After much debate, I opted for a propane fueled smoker, found one at what I thought was a reasonable price and ordered it for delivery... It arrived, I managed to drag it into the house using my "folding" dolly, and tore open the box. Spreading the pieces all around the dining room, I left it all sit for a number of days, as I had other chores to deal with at the time. It is now fully assembled, and waiting to be carried out to the back patio. Now that it's here, I'm eagerly awaiting using for the first time, but be the frugal man my dad taught me to be, I must learn more about using it...
I have a ham in the freezer I'm dying to smoke, but feel that when I'm well enough educated, I can cook an entire meal along with it, rather than wasting gas for just the ham... I've got the propane, wood chips, etc. but not yet sure what else I can place in the "space" to cook a meal...
I've found a website smokegrillbbq.com and hope to learn plenty about smoking foods there, but I'm sure there are plenty of other sites that I will find in time.
So, this is the most recent adventure of a "crazycook" continuing my journey into the culinary world! Any and all advice or comments will be appreciated!
Be well, Steve
After much debate, I opted for a propane fueled smoker, found one at what I thought was a reasonable price and ordered it for delivery... It arrived, I managed to drag it into the house using my "folding" dolly, and tore open the box. Spreading the pieces all around the dining room, I left it all sit for a number of days, as I had other chores to deal with at the time. It is now fully assembled, and waiting to be carried out to the back patio. Now that it's here, I'm eagerly awaiting using for the first time, but be the frugal man my dad taught me to be, I must learn more about using it...
I have a ham in the freezer I'm dying to smoke, but feel that when I'm well enough educated, I can cook an entire meal along with it, rather than wasting gas for just the ham... I've got the propane, wood chips, etc. but not yet sure what else I can place in the "space" to cook a meal...
I've found a website smokegrillbbq.com and hope to learn plenty about smoking foods there, but I'm sure there are plenty of other sites that I will find in time.
So, this is the most recent adventure of a "crazycook" continuing my journey into the culinary world! Any and all advice or comments will be appreciated!
Be well, Steve
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
When the DIET rang the doorbell...
In case you're not familiar with me, my kidneys almost packed up last summer. Since, I've been battling the after effects, getting back on meds for my other issues, and trying to learn about dietary needs, for yet another health issue...
So, on advice from online friends, my doctors, and online research, I've come to a few conclusions. Now, I've been a salt-o-holic most of my life, but now, at 59 yrs old, I'm once again attempting to reduce my salt use. At first I thought it would be a major effort, however even this evening, I ate an ear of corn with very little salt on it! I was shocked! "Normally," I would steam it in the micro with a light sprinkle, then as I ate it, I would add coarse salt (almost) with every bite. This evening, I steamed with a light sprinkle, and at first, added at the table, but then found that I was enjoying without any additional salt. I was stunned, but pleased! Corn on the cob, and a perfectly good steak, are two things that I have found myself salting often, as I eat the meal. I'm also cutting down on the amount of salt I use during cooking, so hopefully I'm improving there...
First on the list, as of a couple months ago, was caffeine... I happen to love coffee and iced tea, but I was surprised when I gave up the tea, and switched to decaf, that I didn't experience the headaches I was expecting. Ok, so I usually have no more than two cups of coffee in after I arise, and the fact that I gave up iced tea almost a year ago, I presume all aided me in losing the caffeine.
I've also attempted to reduce my sugar intake, as I've been told that it can tax the kidney processes. Sugar substitute in my morning decaf... how BORING is that? But, I've found that Splenda is a decent replacement, though I'm out of it right now... note to self...
And who knew that nuts, and dairy are hard on the kidneys? I didn't! However, for a week or two, after eating a handful of peanuts daily, only to begin having lower backaches - a sign of kidney issues. I guess, no more nuts, and the dairy seems to be bad as calcium can build up in the kidneys... though my most recent bloodwork tells me my calcium level is about midway between hi/low... I have however tried to reduce my dairy intake...
What it all sums up to, is that making these changes may keep me off dialysis, which simply is not an option if I can make some simple changes to my eating habits instead - trust me, having only one dialysis treatment, I don't want to go back there again, if I can avoid it!
So, one never knows just what sort of curve balls life will toss at us, and all one can do, is attempt to avoid these obstacles, especially if some simple changes in lifestyle can aid you.
My advice is, when you're faced with a curve ball, do your homework.
I'm working on connecting with a nutritionist, as I am "chief cook and bottle washer" at this house. Time to take control of myself!
Be well, and say hi if you stop in to read me! Thanks,
Steve
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Afghan Hound Party
I was reminded earlier today about a long forgotten socially important event we were invited to a few years ago... Kenyon approached us, with an invite gently held in his strong mouth. He was asked to join a party, bringing his humans, and a "dish to pass."
Of course, we couldn't refuse, after all, the hosts Bablu and Devon are our good friends, as is their human, Audie. She had ordered people food, and most humans brought people food, but Kenyon thought it would be a good idea, being a "dog party," for us to bring dog treats. As it happened, I had a recipe for dog bones, so to please Kenyon, I prepared a double batch, and off we went at the allotted time.
I was asked by one human what I had brought to the party, as she had been informed that I'm somewhat of a cook. "Dog bones." She seemed surprised... I guess she had expected some fantastic people dish that I had whipped up. Audie and I chuckled, as I explained that as it was a dog party, just why would I bring people food!
I would have handed Bablu and Devon the cookies to distribute amongst their guests who were all romping around the back yard and socializing with their fellow canines, but I feared that they would just scarf them all down in a heartbeat, so I handed the baggies to Audie, and allowed her to distribute the treats.
A wonderful time was had by all, including those of us who are two legged! The treats were a great success amongst the fur friends...
Of course, we couldn't refuse, after all, the hosts Bablu and Devon are our good friends, as is their human, Audie. She had ordered people food, and most humans brought people food, but Kenyon thought it would be a good idea, being a "dog party," for us to bring dog treats. As it happened, I had a recipe for dog bones, so to please Kenyon, I prepared a double batch, and off we went at the allotted time.
I was asked by one human what I had brought to the party, as she had been informed that I'm somewhat of a cook. "Dog bones." She seemed surprised... I guess she had expected some fantastic people dish that I had whipped up. Audie and I chuckled, as I explained that as it was a dog party, just why would I bring people food!
I would have handed Bablu and Devon the cookies to distribute amongst their guests who were all romping around the back yard and socializing with their fellow canines, but I feared that they would just scarf them all down in a heartbeat, so I handed the baggies to Audie, and allowed her to distribute the treats.
A wonderful time was had by all, including those of us who are two legged! The treats were a great success amongst the fur friends...
Friday, May 20, 2016
Ready or Not
Late the other night - in fact it was after midnight, thus early in the morning... my laptop decided to download windows 10 for me. Not knowing how to stop it, I decided to just let it go, cross my fingers, and hope for the best. The process took a while, and I ended up quite late, as I'm doing tonight again, sorting out a few other things, learning, if you will...
The actual download went without a hitch (fortunately,) and past days have been interesting as learning how to do the things I "used" to do are at times a bit challenging. For the most part, however, I seem to be sorting things out rather easily. Now you must understand, I'm not stupid when it comes to these infernal contraptions, but I've really never learned any more than I need to know, to accomplish the tasks I frequently do, though I consider myself "technologically challenged" in the long run. Guessing that if I can figure this out on my own, most young children will simply ask, "what's the big deal?"
So, as time progresses, I'm sure I'll learn more and more about the "wonders" of 10. In fact I just thought of another thing to look into. Overall, I'm liking what I'm seeing so far. Should I wait for the "shoe to drop?" Time alone will tell!
Be well!
The actual download went without a hitch (fortunately,) and past days have been interesting as learning how to do the things I "used" to do are at times a bit challenging. For the most part, however, I seem to be sorting things out rather easily. Now you must understand, I'm not stupid when it comes to these infernal contraptions, but I've really never learned any more than I need to know, to accomplish the tasks I frequently do, though I consider myself "technologically challenged" in the long run. Guessing that if I can figure this out on my own, most young children will simply ask, "what's the big deal?"
So, as time progresses, I'm sure I'll learn more and more about the "wonders" of 10. In fact I just thought of another thing to look into. Overall, I'm liking what I'm seeing so far. Should I wait for the "shoe to drop?" Time alone will tell!
Be well!
Makeshift Meal
I've been meaning to stop by and say hi for a few days, just haven't taken the time to place fingers on keys... I've been wanting to share a dinner dilemma I had a few nights ago... Here is my tale of daring culinary escapades in the crazykitchen...
Mealtime was approaching, and as I'd been visiting with our friend Denise, I was running late. Just what could I pull together in only an hour? You must understand that for a 7pm mealtime, I often get started around 3-4pm, so you may see that I was distressed. Flinging open the frige door to take a quick inventory, the idea began to culminate...
Due to my "kidney issues," I'm learning to limit salt use by using other seasonings to enhance flavor. So, when I salted a pot of water to cook some noodles, I used about half of what I would have done... I was recalling a dish I once had at a restaurant, a sort of crab alfredo dish, so I grated parmesan, minced a shallot, and I was off. The noodles were cooked, drained, and set aside. Butter and shallots into the warm pan for a couple of minutes, added flour for a minute or two, added heavy cream, the noodles, and imitation crab meat. Simmered all of that until they sauce thickened, by which time the crab had warmed through. A sprinkle of white pepper and a bit of garlic powder, and voila! For a side, I heated some broccoli which I had par cooked fresh, sealed in a freezer bag. A little salt, and butter, and dinner was served!
In all honesty, I did impress myself - this meal was as flavorful as the meal I remember from that restaurant way back when - I'm going back 10-15 years! I must get this one down on paper and place it in the "keeper" file. While I'm sure this recipe won't rate too well on the "cholesterol" scale, other than the cream, it seems (in my mind,) not overly unhealthy....
Now back to the kidney issues, I'm watching dairy, as I understand that calcium can monkey up the works, but last checked my calcium was about midway between high and low. I'm no longer eating nuts, have given up caffeine, and I'm cutting down on sugar... If you have any other insights or advice, feel free to help me here! I still need to hook up with a nutritionist/dietician, but meanwhile, I'm doing what I can to help the cause...
Be well!
Mealtime was approaching, and as I'd been visiting with our friend Denise, I was running late. Just what could I pull together in only an hour? You must understand that for a 7pm mealtime, I often get started around 3-4pm, so you may see that I was distressed. Flinging open the frige door to take a quick inventory, the idea began to culminate...
Due to my "kidney issues," I'm learning to limit salt use by using other seasonings to enhance flavor. So, when I salted a pot of water to cook some noodles, I used about half of what I would have done... I was recalling a dish I once had at a restaurant, a sort of crab alfredo dish, so I grated parmesan, minced a shallot, and I was off. The noodles were cooked, drained, and set aside. Butter and shallots into the warm pan for a couple of minutes, added flour for a minute or two, added heavy cream, the noodles, and imitation crab meat. Simmered all of that until they sauce thickened, by which time the crab had warmed through. A sprinkle of white pepper and a bit of garlic powder, and voila! For a side, I heated some broccoli which I had par cooked fresh, sealed in a freezer bag. A little salt, and butter, and dinner was served!
In all honesty, I did impress myself - this meal was as flavorful as the meal I remember from that restaurant way back when - I'm going back 10-15 years! I must get this one down on paper and place it in the "keeper" file. While I'm sure this recipe won't rate too well on the "cholesterol" scale, other than the cream, it seems (in my mind,) not overly unhealthy....
Now back to the kidney issues, I'm watching dairy, as I understand that calcium can monkey up the works, but last checked my calcium was about midway between high and low. I'm no longer eating nuts, have given up caffeine, and I'm cutting down on sugar... If you have any other insights or advice, feel free to help me here! I still need to hook up with a nutritionist/dietician, but meanwhile, I'm doing what I can to help the cause...
Be well!
Sunday, May 15, 2016
A Quote
I remained too much inside my head, and ended up losing my mind... (Edgar Allan Poe.)
Sounds like a great credo for a crazycook! Be well!
Sounds like a great credo for a crazycook! Be well!
Friday, May 13, 2016
Changing the Menu
Not only have I battled things like cholesterol and high blood pressure for years, but now I need to worry about what's good/bad for my kidneys, since last year's diagnosis of chronic stage 3 kidney failure... It's been a bit of a struggle for more than 6 months, but now also Jason has been diagnosed with cholesterol, so the "game" is on, to drastically change our eating habits to improve overall health of the two of us.
Last visit to my nephrologist wrapped up with, "cut down on sodium" which was no big surprise, but damn... I do like my salt. So, during the following days, I began reducing salt, I've gone caffeine free, and have cut down on sugar... all in hopes that I may avoid a return to the hateful dialysis port. I need to get off my rear and hook up with a nutritionist/dietician to hammer out some guidelines for me to follow. If any of you have any insight, I'd appreciate the advice...
This all brings me to last night's dinner meal. We aren't big eaters of fish, preferring MEAT, but I bit the bullet, and prepared a cold pasta salad comprising of imitation crab meat and side of garden salad. I'm wishing that I'd had more "stuff" to add to the pasta, but despite the frige being rather empty, the meal was a hit.
So, the HEAT is on... It hit 102F today, with 5% humidity. I didn't venture out much as the ozone is being an issue this year, and with chronic bronchitis I'm guessing that I'd best not be out too much during these warnings, though we are (by my choice) using the "swamp cooler" rather than a/c, so I'm sure the ozone crap is being pumped directly into the house. I'm in hog heaven with the heat... as I told my sis last month when she was here, "I don't warm up till it's 80F!"
Well, there you have a little more input as to just who I am... Visit often, I'm sure I'll get around to cookin' stuff at some point, but it seems only appropriate right now to introduce myself to those who don't know me.
Be happy, be healthy, and "Change the Menu" as needed!
Last visit to my nephrologist wrapped up with, "cut down on sodium" which was no big surprise, but damn... I do like my salt. So, during the following days, I began reducing salt, I've gone caffeine free, and have cut down on sugar... all in hopes that I may avoid a return to the hateful dialysis port. I need to get off my rear and hook up with a nutritionist/dietician to hammer out some guidelines for me to follow. If any of you have any insight, I'd appreciate the advice...
This all brings me to last night's dinner meal. We aren't big eaters of fish, preferring MEAT, but I bit the bullet, and prepared a cold pasta salad comprising of imitation crab meat and side of garden salad. I'm wishing that I'd had more "stuff" to add to the pasta, but despite the frige being rather empty, the meal was a hit.
So, the HEAT is on... It hit 102F today, with 5% humidity. I didn't venture out much as the ozone is being an issue this year, and with chronic bronchitis I'm guessing that I'd best not be out too much during these warnings, though we are (by my choice) using the "swamp cooler" rather than a/c, so I'm sure the ozone crap is being pumped directly into the house. I'm in hog heaven with the heat... as I told my sis last month when she was here, "I don't warm up till it's 80F!"
Well, there you have a little more input as to just who I am... Visit often, I'm sure I'll get around to cookin' stuff at some point, but it seems only appropriate right now to introduce myself to those who don't know me.
Be happy, be healthy, and "Change the Menu" as needed!
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
CRAZYCOOK is HERE!
Hi, I'm Steve, and opened this blog some time ago, but have been remiss in visiting very often. Well folks, like it or not, I'm here, and I believe here to stay!
I've had a cooking blog on another site for many years, but they are now failing to provide services my paid membership has promised... thus I'm washing my hands of them, and will concentrate on my BlogSpot.com, "Life, Lemons, and Things." Here, you will find stories of escapades in my "crazykitchen," babble about just about anything, and efforts to improve dietary needs due to health issues biting me in the butt.
I tend to say what's on my mind at any given time thus not limiting myself to a specific topic, but I do my best not to be offensive to anyone, but there may be times some disagree... that's life and lemons, isn't it?
So, if you're up to it, follow my path through life, and I look forward to making many relationships with folk here! Be well, and I'm sure I'll be back soon...
I've had a cooking blog on another site for many years, but they are now failing to provide services my paid membership has promised... thus I'm washing my hands of them, and will concentrate on my BlogSpot.com, "Life, Lemons, and Things." Here, you will find stories of escapades in my "crazykitchen," babble about just about anything, and efforts to improve dietary needs due to health issues biting me in the butt.
I tend to say what's on my mind at any given time thus not limiting myself to a specific topic, but I do my best not to be offensive to anyone, but there may be times some disagree... that's life and lemons, isn't it?
So, if you're up to it, follow my path through life, and I look forward to making many relationships with folk here! Be well, and I'm sure I'll be back soon...
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