Author: Mike

Bloody Mary Rim Salt

I’m not a bartender or mixologist by any stretch of the imagination. If you asked me anything about mixed drinks you’d get a blank unknowing look in response. However, I can make two drinks that my wife does enjoy: a dirty martini and a Bloody Mary. Now, we’re not talking big-time fru-fru drinks here. My Bloody Mary isn’t like some you see on TV. You know, the ones that are garnished with bacon, sliders and hot peppers or whatever. I keep it simple and tasty. And the key to my Bloody Mary is the rim salt. I make a big batch of it and keep it in the pantry, ready just in case someone requests a Bloody Mary.

Bloody Mary Rim Salt

Great On Wings And Steaks, Too!

Bloody Mary rim salt isn’t just for making drinks better, either. I love to sprinkle it on chicken wings hot out of the deep fryer or off the grill. It’s wonderfully different. It’s also great as a seasoning on grilled steaks.

RoyalHouse 6 Pack 32 Oz Plastic Spice Jars with Red Cap, Clear and Safe Plastic Bottle Containers with Shaker Lids for Storing Spice, Herbs and Seasoning Powders, BPA Free, Made in USA
RoyalHouse 6 Pack 32 Oz Plastic Spice Jars with Red Cap, Clear and Safe Plastic Bottle Containers with Shaker Lids for Storing Spice, Herbs and Seasoning Powders, BPA Free, Made in USA

If I buy my rim salt, I almost always pick some up from Pepper Palace. There stuff is amazingly good!

Bloody Mary Rim Salt
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bloody Mary Rim Salt

My Bloody Mary isn’t like some you see on TV that are garnished with bacon, sliders and hot peppers or whatever. I keep it simple and tasty. And the key to my Bloody Mary is the rim salt.
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Keyword Bloody Mary, seasoning
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 16 servings
Calories 5kcal
Author Pioneer Woman

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in a jar or sealable container. Shake to combine.
  • To rim a glass, moisten the edge of your glass then dip into the salt.

Notes

If you want a finer salt, place the salt into a spice grinder first and pulse a few times until the desired size is obtained.

Nutrition

Calories: 5kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2206mg | Potassium: 25mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 221IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 7mg | 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)

Smoked Cheetos

Well, yep, smoked Cheetos are different. And boy, you gotta be careful smoking them too. It doesn’t take much smoke to get these little crunchy morsels mighty smoky. I admit, my first time making them I got distracted and smoked them longer than I should have. I was able to rescue them (the longer they rest after smoking, the more mellow the smoke flavor gets) but I suggest you start with less smoke time, try them, and go from there. They come out totally new, something people won’t expect! Nice and crunchy and smoky cheesy!

To smoke Cheetos you use a cold smoking technique. You do not want high heat. You can get by with temperatures up to 180 F, but I suggest cold smoking, which is generally below 90 F.

Smoked Cheetos

Use A Smoker Tube For The Best Results

I use a pellet smoker tube when cold smoking. It gives me perfect control over the temperature and produces consistent smoke. I buy wood pellets and stuff the tube completely, then light one end. The tube stays lit for a few hours, perfect for smoking Cheetos. I highly recommend it. It’s also great for adding smoke flavor to dishes being cooked on a gas grill.

Pellet Smoker Tube -12" Stainless Steel Wood Tube Smoke for Cold/Hot Smoking for All Electric, Gas, Charcoal Grills or Smokers - Ideal for Smoking Cheese, Fish, Pork, Beef, Nuts, Bonus Brush
Pellet Smoker Tube -12″ Stainless Steel Wood Tube Smoke for Cold/Hot Smoking for All Electric, Gas, Charcoal Grills or Smokers – Ideal for Smoking Cheese, Fish, Pork, Beef, Nuts, Bonus Brush

Since you have your cold smoke set-up going, throw on some potato chips or Chex mix too! Cheez-Its are delicious smoked also!

Smoked Cheetos
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Smoked Cheetos

To smoke Cheetos you use a cold smoking technique. You do not want high heat. You can get by with temperatures up to 180 F, but I suggest cold smoking, which is generally below 90 F.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Cheetos, smoked
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 77kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For cold smoking (using charcoal)

  • 4 charcoal briquettes lit
  • 1 small chunk apple wood

For cold smoking (using a smoke tube)

  • wood pellets

For the smoked Cheetos

Instructions

For cold smoking (using charcoal)

  • Place the 4 lit briquettes in the bottom of your smoker.
  • Add the wood chunk.
  • Once the wood is smoking, you can add the Cheetos.

For cold smoking (using a smoke tube)

  • Fill the tube with the wood pellets. Place into the bottom of your smoker and light one end. Once the pellets produce smoke, you can add the Cheetos.

For the smoked Cheetos

  • Place the Cheetos in an aluminum pan over your cold smoke setup that is already producing smoke (from above).
  • Smoke 20-30 minutes, gently tossing once or twice, until the desired smoke taste is achieved.
  • It's best to let the smoked snacks sit out for a while before serving. The smoke flavor can be a little strong at first. A little rest time will mellow it.

Notes

Best made with the original cheesy Cheetos. You can also use cheese balls.

Nutrition

Calories: 77kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 68mg | Potassium: 233mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

Deluxe Cheddar Pretzel Bites

The reason I made such a big batch of these deluxe cheddar pretzel bites isn’t because I needed a huge amount for a family get-together. Sure, I needed some, but not a ton. Nope, I made a big batch because I wanted more for myself. Sorry, but it’s true. I was being selfish, but for a good reason. I love them. Crunchy, a bit buttery, and definitely cheesy. And made with real cheese!

Deluxe Cheddar Pretzel Bites

Oyster Crackers Are Great Too!

You don’t have to use pretzels to make these deluxe cheddar pretzel bites. Of course you’d have to change the name then! If you prefer, any cracker will do, especially oyster crackers or saltines. Just don’t substitute something that is strongly flavored and might not go well with the cheddar. That would make for a bowl of sadness.

Utz Sourdough Pretzel Nuggets – 2 Pound (Pack of 2) – Bite-Size Pretzels with Classic Sourdough Flavor, Perfectly Salted with Zero Cholesterol per Serving, Brown
Utz Sourdough Pretzel Nuggets – 2 Pound (Pack of 2) – Bite-Size Pretzels with Classic Sourdough Flavor, Perfectly Salted with Zero Cholesterol per Serving, Brown

Popcorn oil from Orville Redenbacher is like magic in a bottle.

Orville Redenbacher’s Popping & Topping Buttery Flavored Popcorn Oil, 16 FL OZ Bottle (6 Pack)
Orville Redenbacher’s Popping & Topping Buttery Flavored Popcorn Oil, 16 FL OZ Bottle (6 Pack)

Also check out my balsamic, pizza, slow cooker garlic onion and spicy garlic ranch pretzel bites! They are all out of this world good too!

Deluxe Cheddar Pretzel Bites
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Deluxe Cheddar Pretzel Bites

I love these deluxe cheddar pretzel bites. Crunchy, a bit buttery, and definitely cheesy. And made with real cheese!
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword cheesy, pretzel bites
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 1 pound
Calories 1203kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 200 F.
  • Place pretzel bites in large bowl.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the oil and cheddar seasoning.
  • Pour the oil mixture over the pretzels and toss to coat well.
  • Pour pretzels bites out onto a large baking pan and spread out evenly.
  • Bake for 1 hour, tossing every 20 minutes.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 1203kcal | Carbohydrates: 231g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 4382mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 308IU | Calcium: 123mg

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)

Silver Dollar Pancakes

As I was devouring the Big Bad Breakfast cookbook by John Currence, I came across this recipe for silver dollar pancakes. I flashed back to the last time I had them. I think it was in the 1970s in Reno, Nevada. Seriously. 40 plus years ago. How did that happen? I instantly bookmarked the recipe on my Kindle reader. I had everything on hand to make them except for buttermilk. A quick trip to the grocery store took care of that.

There’s nothing complicated here. The batter is perfect. You can use the same batter to make these full-sized, but for me, the memory of silver dollar pancakes made making them again even more special.

Silver Dollar Pancakes

Easy To Make. Even Easier To Eat.

I made these silver dollar pancakes using my Cuisinart Griddler. I opened the Griddler flat so I could use both griddle plates at the same time then set the selector to Griddle. The temperature was set to maximum the entire time. The top griddle doesn’t get as hot as what is normally the bottom griddle, so food cooked on that side will take a little longer to cook.

Of course you can use a skillet or any other type of griddle instead!

Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1
Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1

Looking for a great side dish for your pancakes? Make some waffle iron sausages!

Silver Dollar Pancakes
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Silver Dollar Pancakes

There’s nothing complicated here. The batter is perfect. You can use the same batter to make these full-sized, but for me, the memory of silver dollar pancakes made making them again even more special.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Keyword pancakes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 322kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl.
  • In another bowl whisk together the buttermilk, milk, eggs and vanilla.
  • Add the buttermilk mixture to the flour mixture and whisk until completely incorporated.
  • Whisk in the melted butter.
  • Heat a griddle, Griddler, or large skillet over medium heat. Spray with non-stick spray (or melt 1/2 tablespoon of butter).
  • Working in batches, spoon 1 heaping tablespoon of batter onto the griddle. Do not crowd the pancakes. I was able to cook 12 at a time on the Cuisinart Griddler.
  • Once the tops of the pancakes start to bubble (2-3 minutes on the Griddler, maybe sooner on a stove-top), flip and continue to cook until browned, another 30 seconds or longer.
  • Keep cooked pancakes in a warmed oven until all of the batter is used.

Notes

You can freeze the pancakes and reheat later.

Nutrition

Calories: 322kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 755mg | Potassium: 160mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 462IU | Calcium: 271mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

OXO Good Grips Electric Grill and Panini Press Brush, Black
OXO Good Grips Electric Grill and Panini Press Brush, Black

Copycat White Castle Burgers

I like my burgers griddled. But sometimes, that just isn’t an option. Time for Plan B, and this time Plan B was to make a copycat of the famous sliders from White Castle. Copycat White Castle burgers are rather addicting. Even though you know you should stop eating them at some point, you just can’t. They’re about as easy to make as you can possibly get, and just as easy to devour.

Copycat White Castle Burgers

Messing With Perfection

It’s possible that I often double the cheese on my copycat White Castle burgers. It’s also possible that I sometimes add a bit of BBQ sauce. Beyond that, White Castle sliders should not be messed with.

Lea & Perrins The Original Worcestershire Sauce (10 fl oz Bottle)
Lea & Perrins The Original Worcestershire Sauce (10 fl oz Bottle)

Serve your burgers with some copycat Five Guys Fries!

Copycat White Castle Burgers
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat White Castle Burgers

I like my burgers griddled. But sometimes, that just isn’t an option. Time for Plan B, and this time Plan B was to make a copycat of the famous sliders from White Castle. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword burgers, copycat
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 24 sliders
Calories 261kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375 F.
  • In a large bowl combine the beef, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper.
  • Spread minced onions out evenly on a baking sheet.
  • Add the beef mixture and spread out evenly to the edges of the tray.
  • Cut into 24 square equally-sized pieces.
  • Puncture tops of patties with a straw in a few places.
  • Bake 12-15 minutes or until the meat is done.
  • Drain beef.
  • Cut rolls in half. Add the pickles, cheese and mustard. Add the beef patty and top bun and serve.

Notes

Substitute sliced pepper jack cheese for a nice spicy kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 261kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 1912mg | Potassium: 348mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 336IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 210mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Creamy Cheese and Tomato Soup

Growing up, I saw my dad eat a lot of tomato soup. I kept as far away from it as I could. It was just too darned tomato-y for me. Now, if I’d had this creamy cheese and tomato soup things would’ve been a whole lot different. This soup has just the right amount of tomato. And just the right amount of creamy cheese goodness. Every bite is perfectly rich in flavor.

Creamy Cheese and Tomato Soup

The Perfect Bowl Of Comfort

Creamy cheese and tomato soup hit the spot on a never-ending-winter day. You can also serve it cool or at room temperature in the summer. If you can get real, fresh tomatoes you can chop them and roast them in the oven. Since fresh won’t have the juices like canned do, you might have to add a bit of tomato juice, sauce or even water.

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make this soup and pretty much darned near anything like it on my stovetop. It’s nice and big and sturdy. That extra weight helps it maintain and distribute heat perfectly. As an added bonus, it’s actually pretty easy to clean up too!

Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue

Also try my creamy cheddar soup and my easy kicked-up tomato soup.

Creamy Cheese and Tomato Soup
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Creamy Cheese and Tomato Soup

This soup has just the right amount of tomato. And just the right amount of creamy cheese goodness. Every bite is perfectly rich in flavor.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword cheese, creamy, soup, tomato
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 418kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Pour 1/4 cup of the olive oil onto a rimmed baking sheet.
  • Drain the canned tomatoes, reserving the juices.
  • Spread tomatoes out onto the baking sheet.
  • Sprinkle with garlic, salt and pepper.
  • Drizzle with another 1/4 cup of the oil and stir.
  • Bake until the tomatoes are very soft and are beginning to caramelize, 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Heat the remaining 1/4 cup olive oil in large pot over medium-high heat.
  • Add the onion, carrot, celery and cook until soft, about 8 minutes.
  • Add the tomato mixture to the pot along with the reserved juices and 1 cup water. Stir.
  • Simmer until the vegetables have cooked, about 20 minutes.
  • Add butter, Parmesan cheese, and cream. 
  • Use an immersion blender to combine. Alternatively, transfer to a blender. Let cool slightly then pulse until smooth.

Notes

Make sure you let the mixture cool slightly before adding to a blender, if using.

Nutrition

Calories: 418kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 92mg | Sodium: 2249mg | Potassium: 732mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 6620IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 336mg | Iron: 3mg

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)

Peach and Chili Sauce Meatballs

We’ve all had the ‘standard’ appetizer meatballs. Heck, I’ve had more than my share, I admit it. Proudly. These peach and chili sauce meatballs are not those meatballs, though you might think they are at first. No, these are way, way, way better. The flavor is unmatched. The sauce will have you reaching for a spoon, a straw or even a piece of bread. You don’t want to waste a drop.

Peach and Chili Sauce Meatballs

Time Well Spent

These take about 3 hours to make, which gives you 3 hours to come up with some sort of story to tell everyone as to why half of them disappeared before you served them.

I do like spicy foods. So I used Sambal Oelek in these peach and chili sauce meatballs. It’s not overly spicy, but it does add a really nice kick. Now, if I was making these for a get-together or the big game I’d probably make two different batches, one without the chili sauce, and one with. But for me, the kicked-up version is all I’ll ever need!

This recipe calls for cooking the meatballs in a slow cooker, but you can use a pot on a stove over medium heat instead.

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 sweet-and-spicy appetizer meatballs.

Peach and Chili Sauce Meatballs
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3 from 3 votes

Peach and Chili Sauce Meatballs

We’ve all had the ‘standard’ appetizer meatballs. Heck, I’ve had more than my share, I admit it. Proudly. These peach and chili sauce meatballs are not those meatballs.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword meatballs
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Servings 16 servings
Calories 20kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Johnsonville

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the garlic, stir and saute for 1 minute.
  • Whisk in the flour and whisk for 1 minute to cook.
  • Add the broth and stir.
  • Bring to a boil and let boil until thickened, 1-2 minutes, stirring often.
  • Stir in the peach preserves, chili sauce, chili paste, Worcestershire sauce and onion soup mix.
  • Bring to a simmer, stirring often.
  • Add the meatballs to a 5 quart slow cooker on high heat.
  • Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
  • Cover and heat for 3 hours, stirring gently every 30 minutes or so.

Notes

Serve as appetizers or on rolls as sandwiches. 

Nutrition

Calories: 20kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 25mg | Potassium: 35mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 19IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 12mg | 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)

Copycat Bubba Gump Tangy Honey Shrimp

Give me some perfectly cooked shrimp in a wonderful tasty broth and I’m one happy guy. This copycat Bubba Gump tangy honey shrimp is what regular ole shrimp stir fry wishes it could be. Packed with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that disappears before you know it. And hey, it’s from one of my favorite restaurant destinations, Bubba Gump. We always stop at the restaurant in Gatlinburg when we are there. And not too long we had the joy of eating at the one in Mall of America in Minneapolis! It’s a fun place to eat!

Copycat Bubba Gump Tangy Honey Shrimp

We’re Bubba Gump Fans

We’ve had the joy of eating at a number of the Bubba Gump restaurants. It’s always been a good experience. This copycat Bubba Gump tangy honey shrimp is just one example of all the great food on the menu. You should stop by one near you for lunch or dinner soon. You’ll have a blast! Oh, and watch the movie classic Forrest Gump again so you’re ready for the trivia questions you’ll be asked at the restaurant!

I made these shrimp in a wok on my stovetop. You can use a large skillet instead.

Kenmore Hammond Flat Bottom Carbon Steel Wok, 14-Inch, Black
Kenmore Hammond Flat Bottom Carbon Steel Wok, 14-Inch, Black

Also try my Bubba Gump Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp.

Copycat Bubba Gump Tangy Honey Shrimp
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Copycat Bubba Gump Tangy Honey Shrimp

This copycat Bubba Gump tangy honey shrimp is what regular ole shrimp stir fry wishes it could be. Packed with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that disappears before you know it. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, honey, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 525kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Rice Timbales

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a large skillet or wok.
  • Add shrimp, garlic, and ginger root and stir fry for 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink.
  • In a small bowl combine the broth, cornstarch, honey, ketchup, white vinegar, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce and red pepper flake. Add to the shrimp and bring to a quick boil. Reduce heat to medium.
  • Stir in the sesame oil, chopped cilantro, and green onions.
  • Serve over rice timbales, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Rice Timbales

  • Combine 3 cups water and salt in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. 
  • Add rice and stir. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 to 25 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
  • Lightly spray 4 6-ounce custard cups or ramekins with non-stick spray. Press rice into bottoms and invert onto serving plates.

Notes

If, like me, you’re a little shy about sesame oil, feel free to cut back on the amount a bit.

Nutrition

Calories: 525kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 39g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 429mg | Sodium: 2373mg | Potassium: 348mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 121IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 281mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I think I could ‘fry’ chicken on my grill using the Vortex every day of the week. The possibilities are endless but the results are always fantastic. Crunchy skin and tender, juicy meat. I prefer to use bone-in chicken thighs, with the skin on. They have the most flavor and are the most tender. The coating is simple. This time, for a change, I drizzled the fried chicken with a bit of honey. Honey fried chicken using the Vortex was crazy good.

Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Just Sweet Enough

Since the honey adds a good bit of sweetness to the chicken you might want to offset that a bit by adding a bit of heat. A little cayenne pepper in the dredge will get you that. Or try chipotle powder for a little kick and little smokiness. Just don’t skip the honey. After all, you’re making honey fried chicken using the Vortex. And if you want, you can make a spicy version too!

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg

Also try my buttermilk fried chicken using the Vortex and my Amish fried chicken.

Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex

 This time, for a change, I drizzled the fried chicken with a bit of honey. Honey fried chicken using the Vortex was crazy good.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, honey, Vortex
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 1388kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Nancy Fuller

Equipment

Ingredients

For the brine

For the dredge

For serving

  • 1 cup honey warmed (thinned with a splash of water if desired)

Instructions

  • Place the chicken into a large resealable container.
  • Whisk together the brine ingredients and add to the chicken.
  • Refrigerate for 4 hours.
  • Fire up your Vortex. Fill it completely with charcoal and let them get good and hot.
  • Combine the dredge ingredients in a large pie pan or resealable baggie.
  • Working in batches, remove chicken from brine.
  • Shake off the excess then coat in the dredge (if using a bag just put 2-3 pieces in at a time, seal, and shake to coat).
  • Transfer to the grill around the Vortex.
  • Cook for approximately 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several places. Optionally, turn the lid every 15 minutes. I’ve found that on smaller grills turning the lid isn’t necessary, but on a 26″ grill you might want to turn it.
  • Brush chicken very lightly with the oil and let cook another 5 minutes.
  • Remove and drizzle with the warmed honey.
  • Serve.

Notes

I’ve found that bone-in, skin-on thighs make for the best fried chicken, but that’s just me. You can use your preferred cuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 1388kcal | Carbohydrates: 185g | Protein: 59g | Fat: 47g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 248mg | Sodium: 3490mg | Potassium: 1085mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 82g | Vitamin A: 696IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 347mg | Iron: 8mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Smothered Okra and Tomatoes with Shrimp and Andouille

I normally associate comfort food with cooler days. But when I ran across this recipe for smothered okra and tomatoes with shrimp and andouille in a recent issue of Louisiana Kitchen Culture I had to make it. Even though it was a hot day, it so hit the spot that I found myself unable to stop eating it. The sauce is really the star. It’s a wonderful mix of roasted okra, tomatoes, onions and peppers and my favorite, andouille sausage. Add in shrimp and you’ve got something truly delicious.

Smothered Okra and Tomatoes with Shrimp and Andouille

Great Tomatoes Make For Great Dishes

The key to making smothered okra and tomatoes with shrimp and andouille is the tomatoes. The recipe called for San Marzano tomatoes, and I didn’t stray from the suggestion. They have less seeds than regular plum tomatoes and are far less acidic. The flesh of San Marzano tomatoes is also thicker, making for a sauce that is definitely not runny. It’s perfect. If I could bottle the sauce for this dish I would. I could retire on a beach somewhere. As long as I could get okra on the beach and still make this every week, that is.

Cento San Marzano Peeled Tomatoes, 28 oz
Cento San Marzano Peeled Tomatoes, 28 oz

My okra and tomatoes is a slight variation on this same recipe but without the shrimp and andouille.

Smothered Okra and Tomatoes with Shrimp and Andouille
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4.50 from 2 votes

Smothered Okra and Tomatoes with Shrimp and Andouille

The key to making smothered okra and tomatoes with shrimp and andouille is the tomatoes. The recipe called for San Marzano tomatoes, and I didn’t stray from the suggestion.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword okra, sausage, shrimp, tomato
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 6
Calories 221kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Whisk together the water, salt and lemon zest in a medium bowl.
  • Add the shrimp and toss to coat.
  • Refrigerate for 1 hour, tossing every 15 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, toss the okra with a good amount of Creole seasoning and some oil.
  • Spread out onto a baking sheet and roast 30 minutes, turning once, until starting to brown. Remove.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the onion, bell pepper and sausage and cook until the onions and pepper start to soften, about 10 minutes. Note: If using pre-cooked andouille, cook the vegetables for 8 minutes then add the sausage to brown.
  • Add the garlic. .Stir and saute for 2 more minutes.
  • Stir in the tomato paste until it dissolves.
  • Pour the tomatoes and their juices into a large bowl.
  • Squeeze them through your fingers to shred, removing any hard cores.
  • Pour into the saucepan and stir.
  • Add the bay leaves, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, pepper, and red pepper flake. Stir.
  • If too thick add a bit of water but not too much. You want the sauce to be somewhat thick.
  • Bring to a simmer and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often.
  • Stir in the okra and a splash or two of the fish sauce.
  • Add the shrimp AND the brine it was in and stir.
  • Saute another 5 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and done.
  • Serve hot over rice garnished with green onions.

Notes

Fresh andouille sausage is best but if you cannot find fresh pre-cooked is fine too. If you can’t find andouille at all substitute hot Italian sausage instead.

Nutrition

Calories: 221kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 206mg | Sodium: 1096mg | Potassium: 751mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1005IU | Vitamin C: 55mg | Calcium: 238mg | Iron: 5mg

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)