Author: Mike

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Sliders

The corned beef on these slow cooker sliders is beyond amazing. Yes, it’s tender, but that’s not the main attraction. The flavor is incredible. The corned beef brisket cooks for hours in a wonderful mix of vegetables, seasonings and broth. There’s a mild tomato flavor, which isn’t something you normally expect, but it’s just another taste that really sets this corned beef apart from anything else.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Sliders

Go Kraut-less?

You can certainly add sauerkraut to make these slow cooker corned beef sliders more Reuben-esque, but honestly, I wouldn’t and I didn’t. The corned beef is so incredibly tasty that you don’t want to bury it in kraut flavors. I find it weird to even say that because I’m a huge kraut fan. Specially when it comes to a sandwich with corned beef or pastrami on it. It’s unusual for me to even see one without at least a bit of kraut somewhere!

Looks Hard But It Isn’t

I know it may seem like there are a lot of ingredients in this recipe, but I assure you that it’s not really that difficult to make. There’s just a little bit of preparation time. Then everything goes into the crockpot. I like to take my corned beef out and let it rest for a few minutes before I start slicing it.

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR)
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR)

Also try my slow cooker spicy corned beef.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Sliders
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5 from 1 vote

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Sliders

The corned beef on these slow cooker sliders is beyond amazing. Yes, it’s tender, but that’s not the main attraction. The flavor is incredible. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword corned beef, crockpot, sliders, slow cooker
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 45 minutes
Servings 12 sliders
Calories 383kcal
Author Based on a recipe from A Southern Soul

Equipment

Ingredients

For the brisket

For the sliders

Instructions

For the brisket

  • Layer 1/2 of the onion, carrots, celery and garlic in the bottom of a slow cooker set to low.
  • Add corned beef brisket, fat side up.
  • Add remaining onion, carrots, celery and garlic.
  • In a bowl whisk together the broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire, brown sugar, celery seeds and red pepper. Pour over the beef.
  • Sprinkle beef with salt and pepper.
  • Slowly pour beer around the beef and cover the cooker.
  • Cook on low for 8-9 hours until the corned beef is tender.
  • Remove meat and slice or shred as desired. If storing leftovers, I would add a bit of the sauce from the slow cooker so that the beef doesn’t dry out when reheated.

For the sliders

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Cut buns in half horizontally.
  • Spread the insides with the Thousand Island dressing.
  • Add corned beef and cheese.
  • Add bun tops and brush with melted butter.
  • Wrap in foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.

Notes

Add some warmed kraut, too!

Nutrition

Calories: 383kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 2682mg | Potassium: 683mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 2730IU | Vitamin C: 45mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count

Red- and Black-Eyed Gravies

I love smoked spiral ham. I usually don’t need anything on it. Just give me some ham and I’ll be happy. But recently I started thinking… “Ya know, I’ve never made red-eye gravy before. I should do that.” So I did, and it was good. Very good. But then I thought, “I bet that Sriracha in red-eye gravy would be spectacular.” So I did that too, and it was beyond good. Known as black-eye gravy, it was my favorite of the two, but the competition was close. Red- and black-eyed gravies are a staple in this house.

Red- and Black-Eyed Gravies

Great Gravies For Anything

Either one of these gravies would be great on a steak, too. Or over a sliced beef rib roast. Ooooh, I need to make that. Soon. I do love red- and black-eyed gravies for sure!

I made these gravies in my cast iron skillet. There’s just something about making gravy in them that is different than using a plain ole skillet. It’s like when you make gravy for biscuits. It’s ten times better out of cast iron.

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans

This recipe is based on a recipe from Paula Deen.

Red- and Black-Eyed Gravies
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4 from 1 vote

Red- and Black-Eyed Gravies

Red- and black-eyed gravies are a staple in this house.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword gravy
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 8 ounces
Calories 30kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Paula Deen

Equipment

Ingredients

For red-eye gravy

For black-eye gravy, add

Instructions

For the red-eye gravy

  • Place the bacon in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook until nearly done. Remove the bacon for other purposes but keep the fat.
  • Whisk in the flour until starting to bubble.
  • Add the coffee and water. Bring to a simmer.
  • Add the butter and bouillon and stir until the butter has melted and the bouillon has dissolved.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Let simmer until the desired thickness is achieved.

For the black-eye gravy

  • Add Sriracha to red-eye gravy before seasoning with salt and pepper.

Notes

You can substitute your favorite hot sauce for the Sriracha.

Nutrition

Calories: 30kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 164mg | Potassium: 13mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 90IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Palta Rellena

It seems like a hundred years since I lived in Lima, Peru. And although some of the memories of my years there have faded, my memories of the food have not. One of my favorites was (and is) palta rellena. Avocados stuffed with anything from ceviche to ham to tuna salad. I found this great variation on the classic over on Peru Delights, a wonderful site dedicated to all foods Peruvian. The avocado is smashed into a creamy guacamole, then topped with a mixture of shrimp, onion, tomato, and olives mixed with fresh lime juice. Drizzled with a fantastic sauce of aji amarillo, mayo and ketchup.

Palta Rellena

Aji Amarillo For That Authentic Flavor

Aji amarillo has a fantastic fruity, spicy flavor. Not too hot, but not totally tame either. If you can’t find it just add a few squirts of Sriracha hot sauce instead. But for authentic palta rellena it’s worth going out of your way to get aji amarillo.

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

Also try my tropical shrimp salad.

Palta Rellena
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5 from 1 vote

Palta Rellena

Avocado is smashed into a creamy guacamole, then topped with a mixture of shrimp, onion, tomato, and olives mixed with fresh lime juice. Drizzled with a fantastic sauce of aji amarillo, mayo and ketchup.
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Keyword avocado, Peruvian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 296kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Peru Delights

Equipment

Ingredients

For the guacamole

  • 1 avocado
  • Kosher salt freshly ground black pepper and lemon juice, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic minced

For the salad

For the drizzle

For the garnish

  • parsley chopped

Instructions

For the guacamole

  • Mash together the avocado and salt, pepper and lemon juice.
  • Spoon mixture onto plates, or into a small metal ring (I used a large round cookie cutter) and mash down to the bottom.
  • Make a slight indentation into the middle for the salad.

For the salad

  • Combine the shrimp, tomato, onion and olives.
  • Season and add lemon juice to taste.
  • Spoon onto avocado mixture.

For the drizzle

  • Whisk together all ingredients and drizzle over the salads.
  • Serve garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 296kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 164mg | Sodium: 636mg | Potassium: 653mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 444IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 116mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bloomin’ Apples on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

These bloomin’ apples on the Char-Broil Big Easy were definitely one of the tastiest things I’ve ever made. Each bite was like biting into a hot, fresh-out-of-the-oven apple pie. Perfect. Just delicious!

Ready In No Time!

The apples take only a few minutes to prepare and cook. And I was a bit nervous my first time cutting them. But I found it to be completely painless and rather fun. Everything you need to make these is probably already in your pantry – you just need a few apples and you’re ready to enjoy the perfect dessert right from your Big Easy!

Bloomin' Apples on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Your Apples, Your Toppings

Bloomin’ apples on the Char-Broil Big Easy can be topped with just about anything. Whipped cream. Melted caramel. Toasted nuts. You name it. Or just eat (er… devour) them with a simple scoop of good ole vanilla ice cream.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Also try my Brazilian pineapple on the Char-Broil Big Easy.

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Bloomin' Apples on the Char-Broil Big Easy
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5 from 1 vote

Bloomin’ Apples on the Char-Broil Big Easy

These bloomin’ apples were definitely one of the tastiest things I’ve ever made. Each bite was like biting into a hot, fresh-out-of-the-oven apple pie. Perfect. Just delicious!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword apples, Big Easy, Char-Broil, dessert
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 2 apples
Calories 265kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Gunny Sack

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 Honey Crisp apples
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 4 caramels divided
  • Your favorite toppings ice cream, whipped cream, caramel topping, a sprinkle of cinnamon, etc

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy or preheat an oven to 350 F.
  • Cut about 1/2″ off the tops of the apples, getting all of the stems.
  • Using a melon baller or spoon, scoop out the core of the apples. Get just enough to get the seeds.
  • Using a sharp knife, make 2 circular cuts, one inside the other, around the inside of the apples from the top. You want two concentric circles. Be careful to not cut through the apples. See the picture above.
  • Turn the apples over so that they are lying flat on the cut tops.
  • Take a knife and make cuts down the sides if the apples. Start about 1/2″ from the center of each apple and slice downward.
  • Turn the apples back over.
  • Melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
  • Stir in the flour and cinnamon.
  • Place 2 caramels in the hollowed out centers of each apple.
  • Pour the butter mixture over the tops.
  • Transfer apples to a Big Easy basket and place into the cooker. Roast for about 20 minutes, checking for tenderness. I used a long metal skewer to gently poke the apples to see if they were soft.
  • For oven cooking, transfer the apples to a baking sheet lined with foil and bake 30-40 minutes or until tender.
  • Your apples may take longer than mine. Start checking them after 20 minutes.
  • Remove apples and add your favorite toppings.

Notes

Note: If you add ice cream to the tops of the cooked apples it will cause the caramel mixture to harden. You may prefer to serve the ice cream on the side or do as I did and eat the apples soon after adding the ice cream!

Nutrition

Calories: 265kcal | Carbohydrates: 63g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 72mg | Potassium: 290mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 50g | Vitamin A: 134IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 81mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Spiralized Radish Salad

It’s not like you have to have a spiralizer to make pretty salads, but it sure does help. And it’s fast and easy. This spiralized radish salad took only minutes to make. It tastes very much like a slaw, with a great radish crunch and a perfect citrus vinaigrette. Radishes hold up really great over time, unless traditional salads or slaws that start to look a little bit ‘sad’ after a day or too. And the radishes keep their crunchiness day after day, and that’s a big win too!

Spiralized Radish Salad

Spiral Radishes? Yes!

This was my first time spiralizing radishes. I was afraid it wasn’t going to work, but they came out perfectly. First, you have to start with big radishes. No wimpy long thin ones. Second, you need to make a shallow cut down each radish. If you don’t you’ll end up with one really long radish spiral that goes on and on and on. Then, just cut off the ends, insert into your spiralizer, and get to turning!

Make extra spiral radishes and keep them in your refrigerator. They make for excellent snacks and they’re much healthier than most things you’d find in a bag!

Brieftons 5-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer, Best Veggie Pasta Spaghetti Maker for Low Carb/Paleo/Gluten-Free/Vegan Meals, With Extra Blade Caddy, 4 Recipe Ebooks
Brieftons 5-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer, Best Veggie Pasta Spaghetti Maker for Low Carb/Paleo/Gluten-Free/Vegan Meals, With Extra Blade Caddy, 4 Recipe Ebooks

For a slight variation on this salad, try my spiralized radish salad version 2.0.

Spiralized Radish Salad
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5 from 1 vote

Spiralized Radish Salad

It’s not like you have to have a spiralizer to make pretty salads, but it sure does help. And it’s fast and easy. This spiralized radish salad took only minutes to make. It tastes very much like a slaw, with a great radish crunch and a perfect citrus vinaigrette.
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Keyword radishes, salad
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 4 -6 servings
Calories 37kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Laa Loosh

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon orange juice
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 pound radishes the larger, the better, spiralized (make a thin slice down the sides of the radishes first so that you don't get one long spiral radish) or sliced thin
  • ¼ cup cilantro chopped
  • ½ medium red onion minced
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Whisk together the orange and lime juices, olive oil and sugar in a large bowl.
  • Add remaining ingredients and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Notes

Toss to coat before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 37kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 77mg | Potassium: 321mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 106IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer Spiralizer Vegetable Slicer - Vegetable Chopper Onion Chopper Food Chopper Vegetable Spiralizer Mandoline Slicer Cutter Chopper and Grater Slicer Zucchini Spaghetti Maker
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer Spiralizer Vegetable Slicer – Vegetable Chopper Onion Chopper Food Chopper Vegetable Spiralizer Mandoline Slicer Cutter Chopper and Grater Slicer Zucchini Spaghetti Maker

Sriracha Honey Ham Glaze

It’s Easter time, and among other things, that means hams go on sale. I can’t pass up a cheap ham, so I grabbed a smoked spiral-sliced ham at the market. I warmed it up per the package instructions (does it get any easier?), but instead of using the odd-looking and somewhat questionable packet of glaze that came with the ham I brushed it with this great Sriracha honey ham glaze. Man, was it ever good! Just enough of that great Sriracha flavor and kick, with a tad bit of sweetness!

Sriracha Honey Ham Glaze

The Perfect Ham Sandwich

The Sriracha honey glazed ham was great by itself. It was flat-out perfect on toasted ciabatta with extra sharp sliced cheddar cheese, mayonnaise and yellow mustard. I also chopped up the ham after glazing it and used it in an out-of-this-world great omelet. It was so good that I think I’ll go to the market early tomorrow and grab another ham while they are still on sale.

Huy Fong Sriracha Chili Sauce, 28 Ounce Bottle
Huy Fong Sriracha Chili Sauce, 28 Ounce Bottle

If you’re looking to step up your ham with a coffee-infused gravy, check out my red- and black-eyed gravies. Also make my cherry sauce glaze!  My pepper onion beer sauce makes for a great topping for ham!

Sriracha Honey Ham Glaze
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5 from 1 vote

Sriracha Honey Ham Glaze

The Sriracha honey glazed ham was great by itself, but flat-out perfect on toasted ciabatta with extra sharp sliced cheddar cheese, mayonnaise and yellow mustard. 
Course Glaze
Cuisine American
Keyword ham, honey, spicy
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 1 cup
Calories 1251kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium low heat and heat thoroughly while your ham is cooking.
  • When the ham is done brush the glaze over the ham. If you want, save a bit of the glaze for brushing on the sliced ham.

Notes

Use hot honey for a slightly spicy version of this glaze.

Nutrition

Calories: 1251kcal | Carbohydrates: 335g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1615mg | Potassium: 348mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 333g | Vitamin A: 97IU | Vitamin C: 48mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

No-Boil Deviled Eggs

I’ve made my share of deviled eggs. Pretty pastel ones. Awesome Jell-O ones. And ya know, shelling all those eggs can be a job. So when I ran across a way of making no-boil deviled eggs, I immediately decided to give them a shot. What you end up with is that same great deviled egg flavor, but with a lot less trouble. This approach solves a whole lot of problems, especially if you’re setting out to make a big huge batch of eggs for a family get-together or picnic.

No-Boil Deviled Eggs

Great Results. And Easier.

The original recipe for no-boil deviled eggs called for cutting the cooked eggs into squares, which would’ve maximized the amount of finished eggs you would get. But, I thought that round ones would be more attractive. Plus, I’m not sure I’d be that great at cutting that many squares that would come out looking similar. I prefer a much easier way. Using a cooking cutter made it easy. And a bit fun, actually.

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Also try my jalapeno popper and BBQ deviled eggs.

No-Boil Deviled Eggs
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5 from 2 votes

No-Boil Deviled Eggs

When I ran across a way of making no-boil deviled eggs, I immediately decided to give them a shot. What you end up with is that same great deviled egg flavor, but with a lot less trouble.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword deviled, eggs
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 3 dozen
Calories 458kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Food Network

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Spray an 8″ x 8″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Separate the egg whites and yokes into two bowls.
  • Whisk the whites until they just get foamy. Do not whisk until they foam completely. Less is more in this case.
  • Pour the egg whites into the dish and cover with foil.
  • Bake for 20 minutes or a few minutes more until the eggs have set.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool.
  • Whisk the yokes until smooth.
  • Spray a skillet with non-stick spray and add the yolks. Scramble until cooked.
  • Transfer the yolks to a food processor.
  • Add the mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper and process until very smooth.
  • Transfer to a pastry bag with a round tip or dessert decorator.
  • Remove the cooked eggs whites from the baking dish and cut into squares, or use a small cookie cutter to cut into circles.
  • Pipe the egg yolk mixture onto each egg white.
  • Sprinkle with paprika and chives.

Notes

The number of deviled eggs you will get will of course depend on how you cut them. I used a large round cookie cutter so I only got about 2 dozen.

Nutrition

Calories: 458kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 754mg | Sodium: 480mg | Potassium: 286mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1099IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 116mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

18000 Island Dressing

You could put boring ketchup on your hamburger. Or maybe some mayonnaise. You could slather on some Thousand Island dressing. Or, you could just skip all that and go with big flavor instead. Bold flavor. And kick. 18000 Island Dressing is truly 18 times more flavorful than the classic. There’s nothing boring about it, thanks to a healthy dose of chopped jalapenos. Anywhere you used the ‘boring’ stuff, use some of this instead.

18000 Island Dressing

A Great Sauce For Everything

18000 Island Dressing isn’t just for burgers either. It’s great on sandwiches or our favorite, wraps. And hot dogs (if you haven’t tried mayonnaise-based sauces on your hot dogs you should, it’s a very welcome change from just using mustard). Anywhere you want bold flavor, it brings it.

These little sauce dipping cups are great for serving salad dressings. They keep me from over-dressing my salads, which is something I’m prone to do since I’m a dressing-aholic. They’re easy to clean up, too. And they’re also great for dipping nuggets, tenders or even chicken wings.

(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of - 1.5oz: 12 of - 2.5oz)
(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of – 1.5oz: 12 of – 2.5oz)

Check out some of my other great burger sauces, like Nancy’s, a copycat of Smashburger’s sauce,  and of course, a copycat of the sauce on the McDonald’s Big Mac.

Also try my more traditional dressing.

18000 Island Dressing
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5 from 1 vote

18000 Island Dressing

18000 Island Dressing is truly 18 times more flavorful than Thousand Island dressing. There’s nothing boring about it, thanks to a healthy dose of chopped jalapenos.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword homemade salad dressing
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1 cup
Calories 1602kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Jeff Mauro

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients into a blender.
  • Process until smooth.
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

This dressing is crazy good on grilled burgers, chicken sandwiches, sub sandwiches and even hot dogs!

Nutrition

Calories: 1602kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 168g | Saturated Fat: 26g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 2358mg | Potassium: 288mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 797IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Andean Popcorn

I love Andean popcorn. It’s somewhat similar to the popcorn we enjoy here in the states in that it has a fantastic flavor, even a hint of butter. The kernels, though, are different. They do not explode and puff up like popcorn has been grown to do here. Instead, they kinda… just go… pop. No big explosion. No fluffy white insides. The kernel is thin, and very crunchy. You just pop (no pun intended) the entire thing into your mouth and enjoy.

Andean Popcorn

A Peruvian Favorite

I recall street vendors up in the mountains of Peru, in the city of Huancayo, selling bags of Andean popcorn along the street on market day. I think a bag was 10 soles which then was less than a US nickel. Well worth the price! They were fried in screaming hot oil then salted. That’s it. You did (and do) have to be careful of the kernels when they first come out of the fryer, though. They are very, very hot. So let them cool a bit before diving in!

I popped the cancha in the same popper I use for ‘regular’ popcorn. It takes a bit longer as the heat needs to get really good and hot, but it’s well worth the wait. If you can’t find cancha in a South American market near you you can order it using the Amazon link at the bottom of this post. It’s great stuff!

Inca's Food Maiz Cancha Chulpe 15 Oz (3-pack), Dried Corn for Toasting, Product of Peru
Inca’s Food Maiz Cancha Chulpe 15 Oz (3-pack), Dried Corn for Toasting, Product of Peru

Another favorite Peruvian-inspired appetizer of mine is aji amarillo chicken wings.

Andean Popcorn
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5 from 1 vote

Andean Popcorn

I love Andean popcorn. It’s somewhat similar to the popcorn we enjoy here in the states in that it has a fantastic flavor, even a hint of a butter. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Peruvian
Keyword Peruvian, popcorn
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 163kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add the corn and oil to your popcorn popper and let pop until completely done.
  • Remove and immediately add salt. Do not be shy with the salt.
  • Let cool slightly before serving. The kernels will be very hot directly out of the popper.

Notes

This popcorn is best eaten right after you make it (after letting it cool slightly).

Nutrition

Calories: 163kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 75mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Kernel Season's Popcorn Seasoning Mini Jars Variety Pack, 0.9 Ounce (Pack of 8)
Kernel Season’s Popcorn Seasoning Mini Jars Variety Pack, 0.9 Ounce (Pack of 8)

Mini Classic Cheesecakes on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

I made mini pumpkin cheesecakes for Thanksgiving. They were a big hit. That got me jonesin’ for a more traditional cheesecake. So, that’s what I made! I love making mini classic cheesecakes on my Char-Broil Big Easy. It can’t get much easier.

Mini Classic Cheesecakes on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Don’t Overcook Them

The Big Easy does cook at a high temperature, so you do have to make sure you don’t overcook the cheesecakes, but it’s still easy. You’ll be rewarded with smooth creamy cheesecake with that light vanilla flavor. Perfect. And all in a single-serve size, so you’re not quite as tempted (maybe) to have more than one.

I am not a baker. Not even close. However, I found these mini classic cheesecakes on the Char-Broil Big Easy to be very easy to make. I did learn a few things along the way. You really need to make sure you don’t overcook them. Furthermore, do not let them go over 150 F. And, they may crack a bit no matter how hard you try. That’s ok, the cracks add character.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Mini Classic Cheesecakes on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Mini Classic Cheesecakes on the Char-Broil Big Easy

The Big Easy does cook at a high temperature, so you do have to make sure you don’t overcook the cheesecakes, but it’s still easy. You’ll be rewarded with smooth creamy cheesecake with that light vanilla flavor.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, cheesecake
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 18 pies
Calories 394kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla into a mixer and beat until blended.
  • With the mixer still running on low speed, add the eggs one-at-a-time until blended.
  • Divide mixture between the crusts. Depending on how full you fill them you might not need all 18 crusts.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Working in batches, add pies to the basket and bunk bed basket and lower into the Big Easy.
  • Cook for 10-15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145-150 F. Use an instant-read thermometer to test the temperature. Do not overcook. The cheesecakes will continue cooking just a bit after being removed from the Big Easy.
  • Remove and let cool.

Notes

You’ll need the Char-Broil Big Easy Bunk Bed basket to double the number of cheesecakes that you can cook at once.

Nutrition

Calories: 394kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 315mg | Potassium: 85mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 57IU | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket