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Southwestern Beef And Bean Stew

Posted on by Wiley
southwestern beef and bean stew

This stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is made with beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and green chilies. The stew is seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. It is served with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro.

southwestern beef and bean stew

Southwestern Beef And Bean Stew

This stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is made with beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and green chilies. The stew is seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. It is served with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro.
Print Recipe
CourseMain Course
CuisineAmerican
Keywordbeef stew
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Servings4
Calories500kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Shake flour, salt, and pepper in a large plastic bag. Add beef; shake to coat with flour mixture. Heat oil in nonstick Dutch oven over medium-high heat. cook beef, onion, bell pepper and garlic in oil, stirring occasionally, until beef is brown.
  • Stir in water, bouillon granules, chili powder, oregano and cumin. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 1 hour. Stir in tomatoes, beans and corn, breaking up tomatoes; heat through.

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcal

Breville Joule Sous Vide Review: Elevate Your Cooking with Precision and Convenience

Posted on by Wiley
joule sous vide

The Breville Joule Sous Vide is a revolutionary tool for any kitchen seeking to elevate cooking experiences. This sleek and compact immersion circulator boasts a powerful heating element, accurate temperature control, and an intuitive app, making perfectly cooked meals a breeze.

Unmatched Performance:

  • Precise Temperature Control: The Joule offers an impressive temperature range of 20°F to 212°F (0°C to 100°C), ensuring consistent and accurate results every time.
  • Powerful Heating Element: Its 1100-watt heating element quickly heats water, minimizing waiting times and maximizing efficiency.
  • Whisper-Quiet Operation: Enjoy a peaceful kitchen environment as the Joule operates with minimal noise.

Enhanced Features for Culinary Exploration:

  • Intuitive App: Access a vast library of recipes, adjust settings, and monitor cooking progress conveniently from your smartphone or tablet.
  • Multiple Cooking Modes: Explore sous vide, slow cooking, and even proofing dough with ease, expanding your culinary repertoire.
  • Built-in Timer and Notifications: Set timers and receive alerts for effortless cooking management.

Benefits that Elevate Your Cooking Experience:

  • Perfectly Cooked Food: Achieve restaurant-quality results every time, with juicy, tender, and flavorful dishes.
  • Effortless Meal Prep: Cook meals in advance and reheat them to perfection for convenient and healthy eating.
  • Unlock Culinary Creativity: Experiment with new techniques and recipes, pushing your culinary boundaries.

Why Choose the Breville Joule?

For those seeking a sous vide machine that delivers exceptional performance, user-friendly features, and a seamless app experience, the Breville Joule stands out as the ideal choice. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the Joule empowers you to elevate your cooking skills and impress family and friends with delicious, perfectly cooked meals.

Invest in the Breville Joule and unlock a world of culinary possibilities.

To learn more or to purchase, click here

The Top 10 Food Items for a Festive Christmas Dinner

Posted on by Wiley
christmas dinner
  1. Roast Turkey: The undisputed king of Christmas dinner. Golden-brown skin, succulent meat, and endless stuffing possibilities solidify its place as the centerpiece.
  2. Honey Glazed Ham: A sweet and savory counterpoint to the turkey. Its glistening glaze and juicy, spiral-cut slices add visual appeal and satisfy every palate.
  3. Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, cheesy, and undeniably comforting. Layered richness and cheesy goodness complement any main course, offering warm, satisfying bites.
  4. Green Bean Casserole: Festive color and delightful crunch. Vibrant green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy fried onions create a textural and flavorful symphony. A nostalgic dish evoking childhood Christmas memories.
  5. Cranberry Sauce: Tart, sweet, and essential for balancing rich flavors. Cranberry sauce’s vibrant red adds a festive touch, while its tartness cuts through heavier flavors, refreshing the palate.
  6. Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy comfort food and a base for endless flavor additions. Herbs, garlic, cheese – you name it! Perfectly complements any main course.
  7. Stuffing: Savory or sweet, stuffing adds flavor to the turkey and absorbs delicious pan drippings. Sausage, herbs, nuts, or a combination of all – the possibilities are endless!
  8. Rolls or Bread: Warm, buttery rolls or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up gravy, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Add a satisfying element and mop up every delicious drop.
  9. Pecan Pie: Rich, buttery, and undeniably decadent. A sweet ending to a savory feast. The crunchy pecans, gooey filling, and flaky crust create an irresistible combination.
  10. Peppermint Bark: A festive and refreshing treat. Creamy white chocolate, crushed peppermint candies, and a cool, minty flavor cleanse the palate and leave a lingering holiday taste.

These are just suggestions, of course! The best Christmas dinner food is the one that brings joy and togetherness to your table. Choose dishes that resonate with your traditions, preferences, and dietary needs, and create a festive feast that everyone will remember.

Comfort Food: A Warm Embrace for Body and Mind

Posted on by Wiley
comfort food

There’s a reason we crave that bowl of mac and cheese after a long day or a gooey chocolate chip cookie when we’re feeling down. Comfort food isn’t just about satisfying our taste buds; it’s about nurturing our emotional and physical well-being.

What is comfort food?

It’s a dish that evokes positive memories and emotions. It’s food that reminds us of home, family, and happy times. It’s often high in carbohydrates, sugar, or fat, which triggers the release of feel-good chemicals in our brain like dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals elevate mood, reduce stress, and promote feelings of calmness and relaxation.

Examples vary across cultures and individuals, but some common contenders include:

  • Grandma’s mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying, they transport us back to childhood dinners and warm kitchens.
  • Chicken noodle soup: This classic remedy soothes the soul with its simple yet flavorful broth and tender noodles. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for when you’re under the weather.
  • Pizza: Whether it’s a cheesy slice or a veggie-laden masterpiece, pizza brings people together and sparks joy with its crispy crust and melty goodness.
  • Ice cream: A scoop (or two) of cold, creamy ice cream can instantly lift your spirits. Its sweetness and smooth texture are a delightful treat that never fails to please.
  • Chocolate cake: This rich, decadent dessert is the ultimate indulgence. The combination of chocolate and sugar is a powerful mood booster, making it the perfect pick-me-up after a tough day.

Comfort food and the brain:

The science behind its emotional impact is fascinating. When we indulge in those familiar flavors and textures, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin, creating feelings of pleasure and reward. These neurotransmitters also have stress-reducing properties, helping us calm down and feel more relaxed.

Additionally, comfort food can trigger the release of oxytocin, the “cuddle hormone.” Oxytocin promotes feelings of love, trust, and social bonding. This is why comfort food often reminds us of happy memories shared with loved ones, further enhancing its mood-boosting effect.

Comfort food and the body:

While it offers undeniable emotional benefits, it’s important to be mindful of its impact on our physical health. Many comfort foods are high in calories, sugar, and fat, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems if consumed excessively.

The key is to find a healthy balance. Enjoy your favorites in moderation, and pair them with nutritious options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This way, you can reap the emotional and physical benefits of comfort food without compromising your overall health.

So next time you’re feeling stressed, down, or just plain hungry, don’t deny yourself the comfort of a warm embrace in a bowl. Just remember to savor it and listen to your body. Your mind and your body will thank you for it!

Green Chile Pork Shoulder Stew

Posted on by Wiley
new mexican green chile stew

This hearty and flavorful stew will warm you up on a cold day. The tender pork, flavorful broth, and just the right amount of spice make it a crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients and get cooking!

new mexican green chile stew

New Mexican Green Chile Pork Shoulder Stew: A Fiesta in Your Bowl

This hearty stew is a New Mexican classic, perfect for warming you up from the inside out. Tender chunks of pork shoulder simmer in a savory broth bursting with the vibrant flavor of roasted green chiles. It’s a symphony of comfort food, guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Print Recipe
CourseSoup
CuisineNew Mexican
Keywordgreen chile, new mexican, pork shoulder
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Servings4
Calories500kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Sear the pork cubes on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano over the pork and vegetables. Stir to coat and cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
  • Pour in the chopped green chiles, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the pork is nearly tender.
  • Add the diced potatoes and frozen corn. Cover the pot and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened slightly.
  • Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
  • Serve piping hot, spooning generous portions into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor, if desired.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a chopped jalapeno pepper to the pot.
Want to embrace the bone-in experience? Substitute the boneless pork shoulder with bone-in pieces. Just remember to increase the cooking time by 45 minutes or until the meat easily falls off the bone.
This versatile stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fluffy rice, or your favorite side dishes.
So there you have it, a taste of New Mexico in your own kitchen! This green chile pork shoulder stew is sure to become a new family favorite. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and comforting warmth, it’s a dish that invites you to gather around the table and savor every delicious bite.

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcal

VEVOR 21-Inch Kettle Charcoal Grill Review with Cart

Posted on by Wiley

The VEVOR 21-Inch Kettle Charcoal Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a versatile and affordable grill. It is comparable to the Weber Performer in terms of size, features, and performance but is less than half the cost. It features a 21-inch porcelain-enameled grill bowl, a removable ash catcher, a built-in thermometer, and a handy cart for easy transport. The VEVOR grill also includes a number of accessories, such as a charcoal grate, a lid holder, and barbecue tool hooks.

Performance

The VEVOR 21-inch Kettle Charcoal Grill heats up quickly and evenly, thanks to its efficient charcoal grate design. It can reach temperatures of up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for cooking burgers, steaks, chicken, and vegetables. The grill also does a great job of imparting a smoky flavor to the meat.

Ease of Use

The VEVOR 21-inch Kettle Charcoal Grill is very easy to use. The charcoal grate is easy to remove and clean, and the ash catcher makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, the built-in thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking. The VEVOR grill is also very portable, thanks to its compact design. The cart also has wheels, so you can easily move the grill around your yard or patio.

Durability

The VEVOR 21-inch Kettle Charcoal Grill is made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. The porcelain-enameled grill bowl is rust-resistant, and the heavy-duty cart is built to last.

Features

  • 21-inch porcelain-enameled grill bowl
  • Removable ash catcher
  • Built-in thermometer
  • Rack for rubs and sauces
  • Hooks for barbecue tools
  • Lid holder
  • Handy cart for easy transport
  • Charcoal grate

Price

The VEVOR 21-Inch Kettle Charcoal Grill is a good value for the price. It is more than half the cost of the Weber Performer, but it still offers excellent performance and durability.

Advantages

  • Heats up quickly and evenly
  • Cooks food evenly and imparts a smoky flavor
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Portable and durable
  • Good value for the price

Overall

The VEVOR 21-Inch Kettle Charcoal Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a versatile and affordable grill that is comparable to the Weber Performer. It is easy to use, cooks food evenly, and is made from durable materials. I highly recommend this grill to anyone who is looking for a great way to cook outdoors.

Additional Considerations

  • Use a grill mat or aluminum foil to protect the grill grate from food particles.
  • Clean the grill after each use to prevent rust and buildup
  • Store the grill in a covered area to protect it from the elements

To learn more click here.

VEVOR Portable Pizza Oven, 12″ Pellet Pizza Oven Review

Posted on by Wiley
VEVOR Portable Pizza Oven

The VEVOR Portable Pizza Oven is a great option for those who want to enjoy the convenience of wood-fired pizza without having to purchase a large, expensive oven. This portable oven is easy to use and can reach temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for cooking pizzas in just minutes. Plus, it comes with a variety of accessories, including a pizza stone, pizza peel, and carrying bag.

Cooking Performance

The VEVOR Portable Pizza Oven is easy to set up and use. Simply add pellets to the hopper and light the fire. The oven will reach cooking temperature in about 20 minutes. I was able to cook 12-inch pizzas in just 90 seconds. The pizzas were cooked evenly and had a nice crispy crust.

Portability

The VEVOR Portable Pizza Oven is very lightweight and portable. It weighs just 21.2 pounds and has foldable legs, making it easy to transport. I took it with me on a camping trip and it was perfect for making pizzas over the campfire.

Features

  • Reaches temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Cooks 12-inch pizzas in just 90 seconds
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Includes pizza stone, pizza peel, and carrying bag
  • Foldable legs
  • Cordierite stone for even heat distribution

Advantages

  • Easy to use
  • Reaches high temperatures
  • Cooks pizzas quickly
  • Portable
  • Affordable

Overall

The VEVOR Portable Pizza Oven is a great option for those who want to enjoy wood-fired pizza without having to purchase a large, expensive oven. It is easy to use, portable, and affordable. I highly recommend this oven for anyone looking for a fun and easy way to make pizzas at home.

Additional Considerations

  • Make sure to use pellets or wood chips that are specifically designed for pizza ovens.
  • Allow the oven to preheat for at least 20 minutes before cooking.
  • Rotate the pizza frequently while it is cooking to ensure even cooking.
  • Use a pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven.
  • Let the oven cool completely before storing it.

Click here to learn more.

Top 5 Accessories for the Weber 22 Kettle

Posted on by Wiley
Weber Kettle

Slow ‘N Sear: This versatile accessory revolutionizes two-zone cooking on your Weber kettle, allowing you to achieve low and slow smoking results with ease. The Slow ‘N Sear creates a barrier between the charcoal and the grill grate, providing indirect heat and maintaining consistent temperatures for perfectly smoked meats.

Vortex: Elevate your grilling game with the Vortex. This innovative accessory fits directly into the charcoal grate, creating a vortex of intense heat that’s perfect for searing meats to perfection. The Vortex concentrates heat directly onto the center of the grate, allowing you to achieve restaurant-quality sears in no time.

DigiQ DX3 Dual Probe Thermometer: Take control of your grilling temperatures with the DigiQ DX2 Dual Probe Thermometer. This wireless thermometer features two probes, allowing you to monitor both grate temperature and meat temperature simultaneously. The DigiQ DX3 provides precise temperature readings and alerts, ensuring your food is cooked to perfection.

GrillGrates: Replace your standard grate with GrillGrates, and you’ll never go back. These cast-iron grates feature a unique V-shaped design that prevents food from sticking, allows for easy flipping, and enhances sear marks for visually appealing grilled creations.

Zorestar Charcoal Baskets: Keep your charcoal organized and under control with Zorestar Charcoal Baskets. These durable baskets provide a convenient way to store and transport charcoal, and they can be placed directly on the charcoal grate for easy lighting and consistent heat distribution.

These Weber accessories will enhance your Weber 22 kettle’s capabilities and allow you to explore a wider range of grilling techniques and recipes. Elevate your grilling experience and enjoy perfectly cooked meals every time.

Dutch Oven Vegetarian Chili

Posted on by Wiley
Vegetarian Chili

This hearty and flavorful chili is perfect for a cold winter day or a light meal. The Dutch oven slowly cooks the beans and vegetables to perfection, producing tender vegetables and a rich and flavorful broth.

Vegetarian Chili

Dutch Oven Vegetarian Chili

This hearty and flavorful chili is perfect for a cold winter day or a light meal. The Dutch oven slowly cooks the beans and vegetables to perfection, resulting in tender vegetables and a rich and flavorful broth.
Print Recipe
CourseMain Course
CuisineAmerican
KeywordVegetarian Chili
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 30 minutes
Servings4
Calories500kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the olive oil to the Dutch oven and heat until shimmering.
  • Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes more.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, drained beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour, or until the flavors have melded.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

Notes

For a spicier chili, add more chili powder.
You can also add other vegetables to this chili, such as corn or potatoes.
Serve the chili with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped onions.

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcal

Smoked French Onion Soup

Posted on by Wiley
french onion soup

This classic soup has caramelized onions, beef broth, and Gruyère cheese. The smoky flavor from the Dutch oven will add a depth of flavor to this soup.

french onion soup

Smoked French Onion Soup in a Dutch Oven

This classic soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and Gruyère cheese. The smoky flavor from the Dutch oven will add a depth of flavor to this soup.
Print Recipe
CourseMain Course
CuisineFrench
Keywordfrench onion soup
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 30 minutes
Servings4
Calories500kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Melt the butter in the Dutch oven.
  • Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 30 minutes.
  • Stir in the salt, pepper, and flour.
  • Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in the beef broth.
  • Add the sherry, thyme leaves, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  • Discard the bay leaf.
  • Preheat your oven to broil.
  • Ladle the soup into individual bowls.
  • Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette.
  • Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
  • Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought.
If you don’t have dry sherry, you can substitute it with white wine.
You can also add other vegetables to this soup, such as carrots or celery.
Serve the soup with a side salad or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcal