Category: Appetizers, Desserts & Snacks

Peeps Chips

Everyone loves Peeps. Heck you can even buy Peeps stuffed toys (I’ve noticed one or two around our house even…). So how about doing something different with Peeps? How about crazy good Peeps chips? They’re crunchy. Very crunchy. And they taste like toasted marshmallows. The kind you get over a campfire. They’re really addicting. And kind of messy.

Peep Chips

Fun To Make And Eat!

These little Peeps chips treats take a bit of work to make, but they’re worth it. You want to dehydrate them over low heat. Our oven’s lowest temperature setting is 170 F, which worked perfectly. Just slide a wooden spoon in between the door and oven frame so that any moisture can escape. Our oven also has a warming drawer which, when set to High, gets to 190 F, which is also fine. Just leave the drawer slightly ajar so steam can escape.

Peeps Marshmallow Easter Bunnies Bundle with 4 Colors: Blue, Yellow, Pink and Purple
Peeps Marshmallow Easter Bunnies Bundle with 4 Colors: Blue, Yellow, Pink and Purple

Also try my Peeps-stuffed Oreos.

Peep Chips
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4 from 1 vote

Peep Chips

How about doing something different with Peeps? How about crazy good Peeps chips? They’re crunchy. Very crunchy. And they taste like toasted marshmallows. 
Course Treat
Cuisine American
Keyword crispy, peeps
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 5 minutes
Servings 12 chips
Calories 28kcal
Author From My Man’s Belly

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat an oven to its lowest temperature, 170-190 F.
  • Flatten out the Peeps with your hands, cast iron skillet, spatula… anything you have.
  • Place the flat Peeps onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
  • Insert into oven and let dehydrate for 10 or so hours, turning the pans every few hours. Keep the oven door ajar by placing a wooden spoon between the door and oven frame. You want just enough of a gap so any moisture coming off the Peeps escapes.
  • After 10 hours our Peeps were crunchy on top, but still soft inside. I flipped them and let them go another 2 hours. At that point they were pretty crunchy. I removed them from the oven and let them cool. They then hardened completely.

Notes

Best when served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 28kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Sodium: 3mg | Sugar: 7g

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 Joe’s Crab Shack Popcorn Shrimp

I love shrimp. Cooked any way, any time. Like the guy in Forrest Gump who listed off the many ways to enjoy shrimp. They’re all good. This copycat version of Joe’s Crab Shack popcorn shrimp is crazy good. There’s a nice crunchy breading. Tender tasty shrimp inside.

Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Popcorn Shrimp

Get To Dippin’!

I made up a batch of these copycat Joe’s Crab Shack popcorn shrimp and served them easy style, with two bottled sauces, both from Louisiana Fish Fry Products. The remoulade sauce has a hit of horseradish. It’s almost salad dressing-like, but with a kick. The seafood sauce definitely has a kick to it. Like grown-up cocktail sauce. Of course you can just serve them with good ole store-bought cocktail sauce, spicy or regular. I like to get mine good and cold so I put it into the fridge the night before I make the shrimp.

If I’m cooking for a crowd, I’ll break out my big deep fryer. But, if it’s just the two of us, I’ll fire up my Fry Daddy fryer. It’s the perfect size for both of us. It fries everything perfectly. And as an added bonus, it doesn’t use a lot of oil, which saves me money.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Also try my copycat of Applebee’s Sriracha shrimp. Either shrimp recipe would also be delicious in my fiesta shrimp tacos.

Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Popcorn Shrimp
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Popcorn Shrimp

I love shrimp. Cooked any way, any time. Like the guy in Forrest Gump who listed off the many ways to enjoy shrimp. They’re all good. This copycat version of Joe’s Crab Shack popcorn shrimp is crazy good.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, crispy, popcorn shrimp
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 281kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Put the shrimp into a resealable baggie or container.
  • Add the garlic powder, brown sugar and hot sauce. Seal and shake gently to coat. Marinate in fridge for 30 minutes.
  • Set up three large bowls (I used pie pans).
  • In the first bowl place the corn starch.
  • In the second bowl, beat the eggs with the water.
  • In the third bowl mix together the cracker meal, breadcrumbs, Creole seasoning, flour and paprika.
  • Heat oil to 350 F in a deep fryer or Dutch oven. You’ll need at least 2″ of oil.
  • Working in batches, coat shrimp in corn starch.
  • Shake off excess then coat in egg wash.
  • Shake off excess then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
  • Fry until golden brown (the shrimp will float to the top of the oil when done).
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly.

Notes

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 281kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 368mg | Sodium: 1064mg | Potassium: 186mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 349IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 209mg | Iron: 4mg

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)

Onion Hummus

Next to salsa, hummus is the most popular ‘dip’ in our house. I usually have everything on hand to make a batch. That’s one of the nice things about hummus. The base recipe doesn’t take a lot of ingredients to make. You can treat it like a blank canvas, adding whatever flavors you like. Like this onion hummus, served with toasted pita wedges.

Onion Hummus

Nice ‘N Smooth

This onion hummus is perfect with some warm homemade pita wedges. You can control the smoothness by processing it more or less in your food processor. We like ours a little chunky but not so chunky that the pita chips bend or brake when we load up on the hummus.

Cuisinart DFP-14BCWNY Food Processor Custom, 14 Cup, White
Cuisinart DFP-14BCWNY Food Processor Custom, 14 Cup, White

Also check out another of our favorites, dill hummus.

Sour Cream and Onion Hummus
Print Pin
4 from 2 votes

Onion Hummus with Toasted Pita Wedges

You can treat hummus like a blank canvas, adding whatever flavors you like.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Mediterranean
Keyword hummus, pita
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 361kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Food Network

Equipment

Ingredients

For the onion hummus

For the toasted pita wedges

Instructions

For the sour cream and onion hummus

  • Put all ingredients except the paprika into a food processor and puree until smooth, adding some of the reserved liquid as required.
  • Serve with a dash of paprika for color.

For the toasted pita wedges

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Brush pitas with a little oil and sprinkle with salt.
  • Bake on a sheet pan for 5 minutes until crispy.
  • Sprinkle with more salt while still hot and cut each pita into 6 wedges.

Notes

Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 361kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 321mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 32IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 111mg | 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)

Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp

These little yummy bites are a copycat version of the Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer available at the Bonefish Grill. These shrimp have a fantastic crunch to them. The batter is not too thick or overpowering – you can still taste the shrimp. A little kicked-up dipping sauce and you have a great dish.

Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp

No Dinky Shrimp Please

I used 18-22 count US wild-caught shrimp, which were the perfect size for an appetizer version of this copycat Bang Bang shrimp. For me, at least. I love shrimp. No reason to use the dinky sized ones in something as good as this. I like to have a good handle to grab them by. That way I don’t get myself all messy when I dunk them into the sauce.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Also try my copycat of Applebee’s Sriracha shrimp, Bayou fried shrimp, coconut fried shrimp, and southern fried shrimp. Did I mention how much I love fried shrimp?

Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp

These little yummy bites are a copycat version of the Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer available at the Bonefish Grill. These shrimp have a fantastic crunch to them. The batter is not too thick or overpowering – you can still taste the shrimp. A little kicked-up dipping sauce and you have a great dish.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 948kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the dipping sauce

For the shrimp breading

For the shrimp

  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 16 medium shrimp peeled, deveined
  • 1 green onion green part only, chopped

Instructions

For the dipping sauce

  • Whisk together all ingredients.

For breading

  • In a shallow bowl, place 1/2 cup of flour.
  • In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
  • In another shallow bowl, stir together the remaining 3/4 cup flour, panko, salt, pepper, sage, onion and garlic powders, and basil.

For the shrimp

  • Working in batches, roll shrimp in the flour.
  • Next, place shrimp in the egg and milk mixture and roll to coat. Shake off any excess.
  • Finally, coat shrimp in the breading.
  • Transfer to a large plate and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
  • Heat 2″ of oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to 350.
  • Working in batches, fry shrimp 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Serve shrimp garnished with green onion, with dipping sauce on the side. Note: The Bonefish grill lightly coats the shrimp in the dipping sauce. I found it easier (and less messy) to serve the shrimp with the sauce on the side.

Notes

Make extra dipping sauce. If by chance you have any leftover, it’s also great for dunking chicken nuggets!

Nutrition

Calories: 948kcal | Carbohydrates: 95g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 311mg | Sodium: 2505mg | Potassium: 298mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 388IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 184mg | Iron: 7mg

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)

Cajun Fried Mushrooms

I was looking for a little different (and spicier) version of fried mushrooms than you usually get when you order them at your local bar, and boy, I found it. I recently made some beer battered mushrooms, and they were absolutely outstanding. The nice light batter made the mushrooms feel light and airy. The batter on these Cajun fried mushrooms isn’t quite as light, but it has a fantastic (cornmeal) crunch to it. And a really nice spicy kick. These are different than the usual fried snacks you get at a restaurant or bar. Good different.

Cajun Fried Mushrooms

A Kicked Up Dipping Sauce

The mustardy dipping sauce complements these Cajun fried mushrooms perfectly, and it also has a bit of kick to it because, well, you need a kick and more kick is better.

If I’m cooking for a crowd, I’ll break out my big deep fryer. But, if it’s just the two of us, I’ll fire up my Fry Daddy fryer. It’s the perfect size for both of us. It fries everything perfectly. And as an added bonus, it doesn’t use a lot of oil, which saves me money.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Zatarain’s Creole mustard is a staple in our house. We go thru it like it’s going out of style.

Zatarain's Creole Mustard, 12 oz
Zatarain’s Creole Mustard, 12 oz

Also try my beer-battered fried mushrooms. They’re yummy too!

Cajun Fried Mushrooms
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Cajun Fried Mushrooms

I was looking for a little different (and spicier) version of fried mushrooms than you usually get when you order them at your local bar, and boy, I found it. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Cajun, deep-fried, mushroom
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 752kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the mushrooms

For the dipping sauce

Instructions

For the mushrooms

  • Mix flour, corn meal, salt, white pepper, and cayenne in a large bowl.
  • In another large bowl, whisk the egg with the milk and mustard.
  • Add 1/4 cup of the dry mixture to the egg mixture and whisk.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 350 F.
  • Add mushrooms to egg mixture and stir to coat.
  • Shake off excess coating and remove to the dry mixture.
  • Shake off excess coating and fry until golden brown.
  • Serve hot with dipping sauce.

For the dipping sauce

  • Whisk together all ingredients. Refrigerate until needed.

Notes

These are also great dipped in Ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 752kcal | Carbohydrates: 87g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 63mg | Sodium: 1123mg | Potassium: 709mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 381IU | Vitamin C: 21mg | Calcium: 95mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Oh my goodness. I made a batch of these slow cooker Buffalo chicken sliders and watched them disappear lickity-split. All of my favorite flavors in a single bite: chickeny Buffalo wing sauce, Ranch dressing, and cheese. This might just be the most perfect recipe for a crowd. It can’t get any easier, just toss all of the ingredients for the filling into the slow cooker and a few hours later, you’ve got crazy good sliders.

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Feed A Crowd. Quickly.

I think you could make a little ‘slider bar’ for these slow cooker Buffalo chicken sliders. Let folks choose from blue cheese, gorgonzola, jalapenos, chopped celery, carrots, cilantro… you name it! Oh, and extra Ranch dressing too for those that are Ranch-aholics like myself. Half the time I think I make Buffalo-flavored dishes just so I have an excuse to have more Ranch dressing in my life.

Go Mild. Or Hot.

You can use a mild Buffalo sauce if you’re worried about too much heat. You can always serve a hotter sauce on the side for dipping the sandwiches. Just get a good grip on the slider buns first. You don’t want the yummy chicken sliding off into the sauce.

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 cream cheese chicken taquitos.

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Oh my goodness. I made a batch of these slow cooker Buffalo chicken sliders and watched them disappear lickity-split. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Buffalo, chicken, sliders
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 35 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 280kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Plain Chicken

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pour wing sauce and dressing mix into a large bowl and whisk to combine.
  • Pour into a slow cooker set on low.
  • Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6 hours until fall-apart tender. If the chicken breasts are too large to be submerged in the sauce, flip them over halfway thru the cooking time.
  • Remove breasts to a cutting board and shred or chop as desired.
  • Return to the slow cooker and cook another 30 minutes.
  • Brown buns if desired.
  • Top buns with meat and cheese and place under broiler for just enough time to lightly melt the cheese.
  • Drizzle with a little salad dressing and serve.

Notes

I also added a teaspoon or so of the sauce from the slow cooker to the sandwiches.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 437mg | Potassium: 301mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 213IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 166mg | Iron: 1mg

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

Deep Fried Biscuits with Honey Butter

Deep fried biscuits with honey butter are a rare treat for me, but I love them as much as ever. They’re very easy to make, and you can put just about anything on them. This time I went the sweet route, drizzling the biscuits with a homemade honey butter mix.

Deep Fried Biscuits with Honey Butter

A Real Treat

My mom would deep fry biscuits for breakfast for me when I was kid. It was a rare treat, and one I always looked forward to. I loved the crunchy exterior and soft pillowy (it’s unlikely that I used the term ‘pillowy’ as a kid, though) interior of deep fried biscuits with honey butter. Sometimes I would eat them with just butter, and lots of it. That’s probably when my butter addiction started, come to think of it.

If I’m cooking for a crowd, I’ll break out my big deep fryer. But, if it’s just the two of us, I’ll fire up my Fry Daddy fryer. It’s the perfect size for both of us. It fries everything perfectly. And as an added bonus, it doesn’t use a lot of oil, which saves me money.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Black pepper honey is also great on these biscuits. Or, skip the honey butter and dust these little beauties with powdered sugar for fantastic breakfast ‘donuts’.

Deep Fried Biscuits with Honey Butter
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Deep Fried Biscuits with Honey Butter

Deep fried biscuits with honey butter are a rare treat for me, but I love them as much as ever. They’re very easy to make, and you can put just about anything on them.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword biscuits, butter, deep-fried, honey
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 304kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the biscuits

For the honey butter

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven (you’ll need 2″-3″ worth) to 375 F.
  • Open biscuits and separate. Use your hands to stretch them out slightly, forming little discs.
  • Working in batches, fry biscuits 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.

For the honey butter

  • Melt butter in a small saute pan over low heat.
  • Add honey, cinnamon and vanilla. Stir.
  • Keep warm until ready to use.

Notes

The honey butter is great on ‘regular’ biscuits and bread, too!

Nutrition

Calories: 304kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 745mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 33IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Dill Hummus with Toasted Pita Wedges

The beauty of hummus is that it is open to almost endless taste options. I’ve made roasted garlic and roasted red pepper hummus, for example. Both were easy to make, and had fairly classic flavors. This dill hummus with toasted pita wedges is different, with a much more complex flavor. It was absolutely fantastic. You taste every ingredient.

I’m not sure I’d make ‘normal’ hummus again after tasting this. When you consider how easy it is to make, it’s hard to justify the store-bought stuff. For me, at least. Plus I like knowing every ingredient that goes into my dishes. Making hummus at home makes sure that I do.

Dill Hummus with Toasted Pita Wedges

Dried Dill Works Great Too

I used dried dill since I didn’t have fresh dill on hand, but if you do have the fresh stuff substitute a tablespoon of chopped dill for the dried. Or use more, if you’d like. This dill hummus with toasted pita wedges is best with more dill.

Start out processing the hummus slowly. Don’t go crazy with it. Go slow and check it as you go and stop once you have your desired consistency.

Cuisinart DFP-14BCWNY Food Processor Custom, 14 Cup, White
Cuisinart DFP-14BCWNY Food Processor Custom, 14 Cup, White

Also try my sour cream and onion hummus.

Dill Hummus with Toasted Pita Wedges
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Dill Hummus with Toasted Pita Wedges

This dill hummus with toasted pita wedges is different, with a much more complex flavor. It was absolutely fantastic. You taste every ingredient.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword hummus, pita
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 178kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Sonny Anderson

Equipment

Ingredients

For the hummus

For the toasted pita wedges

Instructions

For the hummus

  • Add one can of the beans and the remaining hummus ingredients to a food processor and process until very smooth.
  • Add the remaining beans and pulse until the beans are mixed in but still chunky.
  • Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with a little extra paprika and cayenne pepper for garnish.

For the toasted pita wedges

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Brush pitas with a little oil and sprinkle with salt.
  • Bake on a sheet pan for 5 minutes until crispy.
  • Sprinkle with more salt while still hot and cut each pita into 6 wedges.

Notes

Also great on crackers!

Nutrition

Calories: 178kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 405mg | Potassium: 133mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 256IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 79mg | 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)

Beer-Battered Fried Mushrooms

Wow, these beer-battered fried mushrooms are dangerous. I require some serious restraint around them. And truth be told, restraint isn’t something I’m known for. So I just resign myself to knowing I’m going to eat a bunch of them. I’ll have a salad tomorrow, I promise!

Beer-Battered Fried Mushrooms

The Perfect Crunchy Batter

The beer batter is perfect. Light and crunchy, it’d work on anything from shrimp to green beans to fish fillets. I liked dipping these beer-battered fried mushrooms in a tangy remoulade from Louisiana Fish Fry products. It has a bit of horseradish in it which really complimented the beefiness of the mushrooms. Ranch dressing would work too, but the kick of the horseradish in the remoulade really made this something special.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Also try my Cajun fried mushrooms.

Beer-Battered Fried Mushrooms
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Beer Batter Fried Mushrooms

Wow, these beer-battered fried mushrooms are dangerous. I require some serious restraint around them. And truth be told, restraint isn’t something I’m known for.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, mushroom
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 167kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring enough oil to cover the mushrooms (about 3″) to 375 F in a Dutch oven or deep fryer.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the beer, flour, garlic powder, salt, pepper and parsley flakes until a smooth batter forms.
  • Add in the mushrooms and toss to coat.
  • Working in batches, deep fry the mushrooms until golden brown.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve with dipping sauce.

Notes

Great dipped in Ranch or blue cheese dressing too!

Nutrition

Calories: 167kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 591mg | Potassium: 423mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

T-N-T Dip

It’s football watching season, and that means dips. And for me that usually means dips with a little kick. Like this T-N-T dip. I served it up over a bed of Fritos and dug in like it was plate of a lovely nachos. It has just the right amount of spiciness without being painful. It’s creamy cheesy yummy. I coulda just put it in a bowl and dipped my chips, but for some reason I had a craving for nachos. Or something close to nachos at least!

T-N-T Dip

Not Just For Dippin’

In fact, this T-N-T dip would be great over nachos. Or a baked potato for that matter. Anything. It’s easy, creamy, and flavorful. You can treat it more like a cheese sauce for anything. Or you can put it in a bowl and serve it classic dip style.

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)

If you prefer a mellower dip, use regular pork sausage and leave out the jalapenos.

Also try my Buffalo queso dip.

T-N-T Dip
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

T-N-T Dip

It’s football watching season, and that means dips. And for me that usually means dips with a little kick. Like this T-N-T dip. I served it up over a bed of Fritos and dug in like it was plate of a lovely nachos.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword dip, spicy
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 192kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Recipes from the Heart

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Brown sausage in a skillet. Drain.
  • And all ingredients to a slow cooker over high heat.
  • Cook for up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until all ingredients are combined and the cheese and butter are melted.
  • Reduce heat to low, top with garnishes if desired and serve with corn or tortilla chips.

Notes

Try Mexican Velveeta for nice change.

Nutrition

Calories: 192kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 884mg | Potassium: 244mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 540IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 173mg | Iron: 1mg

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