Tag: recipe

Old Bay Crab Legs 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 can eat a scary amount of crab legs. Fortunately, I don’t have to tell you just how much a ‘scary amount’ is, but when the crab legs are as great as these Old Bay crab legs cooked on my Char-Broil Big Easy, I cannot control myself. From the moment they go into the cooker the aroma hits you and your stomach will start growling. In just minutes you too can be enjoying nice big ole meaty crab legs covered in Old Bay seasoning. For dipping, I made a bit of clarified butter, which is also something I cannot control myself around. This was a bonus meal for sure!

Old Bay Crab Legs on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Great Snow Crab Legs Too!

You can make Old Bay snow crab legs too, if you wish, but you’ll probably want to cut back on the heating time. It doesn’t take long to re-heat the already-steamed thawed crab legs.

If you prefer to grill your crab legs, try my grilled Old Bay crab legs. Also try my garlic lobster tails and snow crab legs also cooked up perfectly on the Big Easy.

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!

Old Bay Crab Legs on the Char-Broil Big Easy
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5 from 1 vote

Old Bay Crab Legs on the Char-Broil Big Easy

I can eat a scary amount of crab legs. Fortunately, I don’t have to tell you just how much a ‘scary amount’ is, but when the crab legs are as great as these Old Bay crab legs cooked on my Char-Broil Big Easy, I cannot control myself.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, crab legs
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 1009kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds King crab legs pre-cooked, defrosted
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Old Bay seasoning

For the clarified butter

  • ½ pound unsalted butter

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Break the crab legs at the joints if necessary so that they fit into the Big Easy basket.
  • Take a pair of kitchen scissors and make a cut along the full length of the bottoms of the legs.
  • Melt 1/4 cup of the butter in a small saucepan and add Old Bay to taste. Stir.
  • Brush butter mixture over the legs. Don't be afraid to separate the cuts you made a bit to get some of the butter inside.
  • Place legs into the Big Easy basket and lower into the cooker.
  • Heat for 6-8 minutes. Heat less if using snow crab or smaller legs, more for bigger legs. Remember the legs are already cooked, you’re just re-heating them.

For the clarified butter

  • Place the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  • Once the butter has melted reduce the heat to the lowest setting possible and then increase to maintain a very slight boil.
  • Heat for 45 minutes.
  • Scoop out the top clear portion of melted butter and run thru a fine sieve.
  • Discard the solids that remain at the bottom of the pan.
  • Serve hot.

Notes

The clarified butter takes longer to make than do the crab legs, so you’ll want to start that first. You can also make the clarified butter ahead of time and just warm it for serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1009kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 104g | Saturated Fat: 66g | Trans Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 322mg | Sodium: 962mg | Potassium: 262mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 3211IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 83mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham

What’s better than spiral ham? Bacon-glazed spiral ham, of course. It’s spiral-ham-sale-time here, so I backed up the truck and grabbed a nice big smoked ham. Of course, they’re easy to reheat. And just as easy to glaze during the last 30 minutes. The bacon glaze adds a bit more smokiness, but also some sweetness, a little tartness and a little tang thanks to two different kinds of mustard. I don’t usually use the bag of glaze that comes with many hams. It kinda scares me, to tell the truth. I’d rather use something that I made at home so I know what’s in it!

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham

A Great Tasting Glaze

You can substitute pretty much any jelly you want in place of the Creole mustard, but I’d stay away from ‘darker’ ones, such as blueberry or the like. Go for lighter colors. And don’t be afraid to use a spicy jelly such as jalapeno pepper jelly. You may also want to double the amount of bacon-glaze, serving any leftover glaze as a drizzle over the sliced ham when you serve it. Bacon-glazed spiral ham is a wonderful thing and more glaze is… more wonderful!

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

Also try my cherry-glazed spiral ham. My pepper onion beer sauce makes for a great topping for ham!

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham
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5 from 1 vote

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham

What’s better than spiral ham? Bacon-glazed spiral ham, of course. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword ham
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings 1 ham
Calories 6761kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 7-8 pound smoked spiral ham

For the glaze

Instructions

  • Warm ham in oven per package instructions.
  • During the last 30 minutes of cooking, apply glaze liberally every 10 minutes.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

For the glaze

  • Cook the bacon until crispy in a large skillet.
  • Remove the bacon and all of the grease but keep the yum-yum bacon bits that remain in the pan.
  • Return pan to the stove over low heat.
  • Add the jelly and allow it to melt.
  • Whisk in the honey and the mustards. Remove from heat until ready to glaze the ham.

Notes

You can substitute other flavors of jelly too!

Nutrition

Calories: 6761kcal | Carbohydrates: 156g | Protein: 708g | Fat: 348g | Saturated Fat: 85g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2765mg | Sodium: 43474mg | Potassium: 10739mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 117g | Vitamin A: 86IU | Vitamin C: 861mg | Calcium: 280mg | Iron: 33mg

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)

Ciabatta and Sausage Dressing

As much as I love turkey around the holidays, it’s the dressing and gravy that I love the most. Dressing (especially this ciabatta and sausage dressing) has so many different flavors and textures and colors. Turkey? Meh… not so much. Not that the turkey is a bad thing, it’s just that I much prefer a plate with a lot of dressing and just a bit of turkey.

Ciabatta and Sausage Dressing

Sausage Dressing Equals Greatness

I had never had a dressing that contained sausage until this one. I was blown away by just how much flavor the sage sausage adds. The ciabatta adds such wonderful texture and flavor too. There’s no question, this baked ciabatta and sausage dressing is just fantastic.

8-Piece Deep Glass Baking Dish Set with Plastic lids,Rectangular Glass Bakeware Set with Lids, Baking Pans for Lasagna, Leftovers, Cooking, Kitchen, Freezer-to-Oven and Dishwasher, Gray
8-Piece Deep Glass Baking Dish Set with Plastic lids,Rectangular Glass Bakeware Set with Lids, Baking Pans for Lasagna, Leftovers, Cooking, Kitchen, Freezer-to-Oven and Dishwasher, Gray

Also try my more traditional Thanksgiving Day dressing.

This recipe is based on a recipe from Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Bistro.

Ciabatta and Sausage Dressing
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5 from 1 vote

Ciabatta and Sausage Stuffing

As much as I love turkey around the holidays, it’s the dressing and gravy that I love the most. Dressing (specially this ciabatta and sausage dressing) has so many different flavors and textures and colors. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword stuffing
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 9
Calories 220kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Bistro

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Crumble in the sausage and cook until browned. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Add remaining butter to the skillet and melt.
  • Add the carrot, onion and celery and saute until starting to soften.
  • Place the sausage, cooked vegetables, stock, oil, parsley, rosemary sage and bread into a large bowl and stir.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Pour mixture into a 9″ x 13″ baking dish and spread out evenly.
  • Bake 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and hot.
  • Serve garnished with more parsley if desired.

Notes

You can substitute chicken stock for the turkey stock.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 484mg | Potassium: 233mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1405IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 18mg | 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)

Skittles Popcorn

We had a sort-of-good turnout this year at Halloween. Trick-or-treaters came in waves, but not big waves like we had last year. That means we were left with a big ole bowl (actually, three bowls) of leftover Halloween candy. I’m a big fan of Skittles candies, so we had lots of Skittles… so I made Skittles popcorn! Fun to make, the popcorn tastes a bit like caramel corn, but with the sweetness cranked up a few notches. Tangerine, lemon, berry, grape and pear flavors exploded everywhere!

Skittles Popcorn

A Big Bowl Of Colorful Sweetness!

Skittles popcorn is mighty darned tasty (and sweet). It doesn’t get super-duper crunchy like caramel corn but it’s still a great treat. And it doesn’t take a whole lot of Skittles candies to make a whole lot of popcorn, either. You’ll want to make extra because this stuff is great!

West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Machine Electric Hot Oil Popper Includes Large Lid for Serving Bowl and Convenient Nesting Storage, 6-Quart, Red
West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Machine Electric Hot Oil Popper Includes Large Lid for Serving Bowl and Convenient Nesting Storage, 6-Quart, Red

Some of the colors get a bit thin as they melt, so don’t be afraid to have a few drops of food coloring on hand to bump up the colors.

Also try my red velvet popcorn.

Skittles Popcorn
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5 from 1 vote

Skittles Popcorn

Make a single batch each of your favorite color, then combine for the full rainbow effect!
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword popcorn
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 31 minutes
Servings 4 cups
Calories 737kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

The recipe makes a single batch of your favorite color. Make several batches, using a different color of Skittles for each one. Then combine for the full rainbow effect!

  • Pop your corn according to package instructions. Place in a bowl and set aside.
  • Rip a sheet of waxed paper (about 8" – 10' long) and place on your counter.
  • Melt butter and brown sugar on the stove on medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid scorching.
  • Pour in the Skittles candies. Stir until melted (you might need to mash them down to help them dissolve). Add food coloring if you desire more color.
  • Once done melting pour the hot candy mixture over the top of the popcorn.
  • Use a spatula and fold in the mixture throughout the popcorn until will covered.
  • Dump the popcorn onto the waxed paper and spread thinly to allow to cool.
  • If you wish to make popcorn balls, allow mixture to cool for 3 – 4 minutes (or until you can touch it). Then, spray cooking spray or butter your hands and form the popcorn into balls shapes. Set aside.
  • Allow all to fully set (around 15 – 20 minutes)
  • Store in airtight containers for about a week

Notes

Nutritional values do not include the Skittles.

Nutrition

Calories: 737kcal | Carbohydrates: 150g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 49mg | Potassium: 524mg | Fiber: 21g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 47IU | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 5mg

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)

Copycat Stove Top Chicken Stuffing

I’ve made my share of Stove Top Chicken Stuffing. It’s fast, easy, cheap and good. In my bachelor days you’d always find a box or two in my pantry. Now that I cook a lot more from scratch, I decided it was time to give making a version of the classic boxed stuffing a shot. And you know what? Man, was this copycat Stove Top chicken stuffing as good as the boxed stuff and mighty fun and easy to make! I was very happily surprised as to how great this was.

Copycat Stove Top Chicken Stuffing

Make Extra. You’ll Need It.

I will definitely double (or triple) this recipe for copycat Stove Top Chicken Stuffing next time. I admit, as much as I love Thanksgiving turkey, I’m really more partial to the baked stuffing and mashed potatoes, each loaded up with tons of gravy. And for me, my go-to gravy is my make-ahead holiday gravy. I don’t just double the gravy recipe either. More like 6 times as much as the recipe states. Maybe 7. Or 8. Like I said, I love gravy.

A lot of the flavor for this dish comes from the Better than Bouillon chicken base. I also use it when making my gravy.

8-Piece Deep Glass Baking Dish Set with Plastic lids,Rectangular Glass Bakeware Set with Lids, Baking Pans for Lasagna, Leftovers, Cooking, Kitchen, Freezer-to-Oven and Dishwasher, Gray
8-Piece Deep Glass Baking Dish Set with Plastic lids,Rectangular Glass Bakeware Set with Lids, Baking Pans for Lasagna, Leftovers, Cooking, Kitchen, Freezer-to-Oven and Dishwasher, Gray

Also try my crazy-good slow cooker holiday green bean casserole.

Copycat Stove Top Chicken Stuffing
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Stove Top Chicken Stuffing

 Now that I cook a lot more from scratch, I decided it was time to give making a copycat of the classic boxed stuffing a shot. And you know what? Man, was it ever as good as the boxed stuff and mighty fun and easy to make!
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, stuffing
Prep Time 1 day
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 day 50 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 297kcal
Author Based on a dish from Wildflour’s Cottage Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Spread the bread pieces out on a large baking sheet. Lay the sheet on the counter top for one day, stirring occasionally. You want the bread to get slightly crunchy and dry.
  • Preheat oven to 375 F. Note: Baking is only required if you desire a stuffing with a more crunchy texture.
  • In a pan or pot large enough to hold all of the bread, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the celery and saute for 5 minutes.
  • And all remaining ingredients (do not add the bread yet). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat. Stir in the bread crumbs and gently stir to coat. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
  • Remove lid and fluff the mixture and let sit for another 5 minutes.
  • If baking, transfer to a 9″ x 9″ baking dish that has been sprayed with non-stick spray and bake for 20 minutes or until the desired color and texture has been achieved.

Notes

Reheat any leftovers in the oven at 400 F for around 10 minutes or until hot. Add a bit of broth or water if the stuffing gets too dry.

Nutrition

Calories: 297kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 1190mg | Potassium: 111mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 215IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 10mg

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)

Easy Smoked Turkey Breast

I set out to prove to myself just how easy it can be to smoke a turkey for Thanksgiving. That meant no brining, no basting, no rubs, no oils, no injecting. Nothing. Just an easy smoked turkey breast.

I used a turkey breast that was already in a basting solution to speed things along and keep the ‘easy’ theme. Turkeys that are already pre-brined (or ‘pumped’) are common and they do save you a lot of time and hassle.

Easy Smoked Turkey Breast

Smoked Happiness

I was very, very happy with this easy smoked turkey breast. It was completely fuss-free. The skin was nice and crunchy. The meat was tender and moist. I used plenty of wood to get plenty of smoky flavor. I think that made up for the spices or basting sauce I would normally add. If you’re making a turkey for a crowd this is the way to go. You’ll have plenty of free time for other things.

I prefer to use fruit or nut woods when I smoke unless I want a heavier smoke flavor. Pecan, apple or cherry are my favorites. I used apple for this turkey.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

I served the turkey with my smoked turkey gravy, made using broth from turkey wings that I smoked on a few days before smoking this easy turkey breast.

Easy Smoked Turkey Breast
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5 from 1 vote

Easy Smoked Turkey Breast

This recipe uses a ‘pumped’ turkey breast, or one that has already been brined. The package will state ‘contains up to 8% of a solution of water, salt, spices to enhance tenderness and juiciness’. Normally I would use a natural turkey that does not contain such a solution, but the goal was to make as easy a turkey breast as possible.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword smoked, turkey
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings 1 turkey breast
Calories 2796kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for cooking at 325 F. If you’re using a Weber Smokey Mountain smoker (or any smoker that uses a water pan), line the water pan with foil and do not add water.
  • Use a fruit wood or lighter wood such as hickory.
  • Place the turkey breast meat side up in the center of the smoker.
  • Smoke until the meat reaches 165 F as measured in several locations.
  • Remove and let rest 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Do not cover the turkey breast with foil as it rests as this will cause the skin to get soggy.

Nutrition

Calories: 2796kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 447g | Fat: 113g | Saturated Fat: 37g | Cholesterol: 1210mg | Sodium: 4098mg

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

Smoked Turkey Gravy

This is my year-after-year go-to technique for making gravy for turkey. Smoked turkey wings make an absolutely delightful turkey broth that, with just a few more ingredients added, makes a gravy that is perfect for Thanksgiving turkey. Or turkey any time. Making this gravy takes a little effort, but it is very much worth the time.

Smoked Turkey Gravy

One Crazy Delicious Gravy

If you want to skip the trouble of making the broth, you can make a gravy using roasted turkey wings instead. In a pinch you can use store-bought turkey broth instead, but it truly won’t be as magical. Using smoked (I use my Weber smoker) turkey to make the broth really adds a tremendous flavor to the gravy. It is something I look forward to all year long.

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

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make this gravy. 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!

Smoked Turkey Gravy
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4.50 from 2 votes

Smoked Turkey Gravy

In a pinch you can use store-bought turkey broth instead, but it truly won’t be as magical. Using smoked turkey to make the broth really adds a tremendous flavor to the gravy. It is something I look forward to all year long.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword gravy, turkey
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4 quarts
Calories 219kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Whisk in the flour.
  • Cook, whisking constantly, until golden in color.
  • Slowly pour in 2-3 cups of the stock, a little at a time, whisking constantly.
  • Add the vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Whisk in some of the milk. Taste and add more if you wish, but don't make the gravy too thin. Let simmer until the desired thickness is achieved.

Notes

Add more milk if it gets too thick.

Nutrition

Calories: 219kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 660mg | Potassium: 198mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 576IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 51mg | 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

Smoked Spiral Hot Dogs

What fun these smoked spiral hot dogs were to make and devour! I’ve made spiral dogs before, but this technique is much better than my old way. The key is inserting a skewer thru the dogs to keep them together after slicing. And of course, the skewer keeps you from slicing in too far. I smoked my spiral dogs, but you could just as easily grill them.

Smoked Spiral Hot Dogs

Good Mustard Makes A Good Dog Great

My wife and I recently ran across The Mustard Man at an event at the Jungle Jim’s market in Fairfield, OH. After sampling each of mustard I instantly picked up a bottle of each one. They are truly fantastic. I squeezed a bit of the Simple Pepper and Simply Maple on each of our smoked spiral dogs. The mustard runs down into the spirals, filling each bite with mustardy goodness. We cannot recommend The Mustard Man’s mustard enough!

Also try my other version of yummy smoked spiral hot dogs.

The Mustard Man
SLOTDOG - Hot Dog Slicing Tool - Stainless Steel Cutter Blades for Kitchen, Grilling, Tailgating, Camping and Backyard Outdoor BBQ - 10 inch - Red
SLOTDOG – Hot Dog Slicing Tool – Stainless Steel Cutter Blades for Kitchen, Grilling, Tailgating, Camping and Backyard Outdoor BBQ – 10 inch – Red

Also try my deluxe smoked spiral hot dogs!

Smoked Spiral Hot Dogs
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Smoked Spiral Hot Dogs

What fun these smoked spiral hot dogs were to make and devour!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword hot dogs, smoked
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 111kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for 225 F. You can also make these hot dogs on a grill
  • Carefully guide the skewer through the center of the hot dogs. If you get the skewer crooked at it pokes out of the side of the dog just pull it back and try again. I found that laying the hot dogs down on a flat surface and sliding the skewer in from the side, parallel to the counter top, worked best.
  • Lay the skewered dog down onto a cutting board or flat surface.
  • Holding a knife at a 45 degree angle, starting at one end of the dog, cut into the dog down to the skewer. Start rolling the hot dog, keeping the knife inserted into the hot dog, making cuts that are about 1/2″ apart. Continue rolling and cutting until you reach the other end of the hot dog.
  • Gently pull the dog apart, separating the cuts. Be careful, you don’t want to break it.
  • Sprinkle with your favorite seasoning.
  • Place dogs onto the smoker and smoke for 2 hours. If grilling grill until done as desired.
  • Serve hot.

Notes

You can use this technique on any cooked sausage.

Nutrition

Calories: 111kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 308mg | Potassium: 66mg | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

TableCraft 3-Piece Nostalgia Squeeze Bottle Set, 12-Ounce
TableCraft 3-Piece Nostalgia Squeeze Bottle Set, 12-Ounce

Cheddar Walnuts

I’m usually a pecan kind of guy, but these cheddar walnuts made a walnut believer out of me with just one nut. Great buttery texture with a sharp cheddar coating, these nuts disappear in no time. I made the nuts two ways: a nice mellow cheddar version, and a spicy fiery cheddar version. My wife took these walnuts to work, and I can tell you I definitely didn’t make enough. They were loved by all!

Cheddar Walnuts

Go Nuts With It

There’s no reason you couldn’t use the same approach I used to make cheddar walnuts on other nuts. Pecans or peanuts are great. Just keep in mind, smaller nuts will roast quicker, so you might want to cut back on the baking time.

I like spicy foods, so I wouldn’t be afraid to double the hot and spicy ingredients. Nothing wrong with a super-duper double-spicy version. But I would put up a little sign by them if I was serving them to a crowd. No point in hurting someone!

Cheddar Cheese Powder by Hoosier Hill Farm, 1 lb
Cheddar Cheese Powder by Hoosier Hill Farm, 1 lb

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from California Walnuts.

Cheddar Walnuts
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cheddar Walnuts

There’s no reason you couldn’t use the same approach I used to make cheddar walnuts on other nuts, such as pecans or peanuts. Just keep in mind, smaller nuts will roast quicker, so you might want to cut back on the baking time.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword cheese, nuts
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 cups
Calories 849kcal
Author Based on a recipe from California Walnuts

Equipment

Ingredients

For the dry ingredients

For the wet ingredients

For the nuts

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

For the dry ingredients

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl.

For the wet ingredients

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a large bowl.

For the nuts

  • Add the walnuts to the wet ingredients and stir until well coated.
  • While still stirring, slowly pour in the dry ingredients, coating the nuts completely.
  • Pour the walnuts out onto the parchment paper, spreading out evenly.
  • Bake for 6 minutes, then stir and bake another 6-8 minutes or until lightly browned.

Notes

You can also make these recipe using pecans.

Nutrition

Calories: 849kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 84g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Sodium: 57mg | Potassium: 565mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 585IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 119mg | 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)

Roasted Cauliflower 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.

Roasted cauliflower is something we make often on the Char-Broil Big Easy. It takes absolutely no time at all to prepare and always comes out perfect. In the past I’ve roasted entire heads of cauliflower in the Big Easy. The only trick to using a whole head of cauliflower is that you have to make sure you buy one that’ll fit into the Big Easy basket.

Roasted Cauliflower on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Perfectly Tender And Tasty

This time I thought I’d try using florets instead. And for a little color and ‘ahhhhh’ factor, I used a combination of purple and orange cauliflower. Topped with what has become our house-favorite seasoning, Casa Seasoning from AlbuKirky Seasonings, this cauliflower was tender and tasty. Perfect.

To keep the roasted cauliflower florets from failing thru the Char-Broil Big Easy baskets I lined them foil. With the addition of two bunk bed baskets you could easily cook a good-sized head of cauliflower. You can also use this same recipe for making broccoli.

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

Also try my Bang Bang cauliflower, also made on the Big Easy. Not in to cauliflower? Roasted carrots are amazing!

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!

Roasted Cauliflower Version 2.0 on the Char-Broil Big Easy
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Roasted Cauliflower on the Char-Broil Big Easy

The only trick to using a whole head of cauliflower is that you have to make sure you buy one that’ll fit into the Big Easy basket.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, cauliflower, Char-Broil
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 36kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Note: I prefer to remove the florets from the cauliflower and then steam them. You can also boil them, but steaming them isn’t as violent so they tend to stay together. Also, if you are using purple or orange cauliflower boiling tends to remove some of the color.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Lay a single layer of foil inside the basket and/or bunk bed baskets.
  • Add the cauliflower in a single layer. Try to not over-crowd too much. A little is ok, but stacking them won’t result in even roasting.
  • Lower the basket into the cooker and cook for 10-20 minutes depending on how done you want your cauliflower.
  • Remove and let cool slightly before seasoning with your favorite seasoning and serving.

Notes

To cook a medium head of cauliflower all at once I used two bunk bed baskets, both lined with foil. You could get by with a single bunk bed basket and then also line the bottom of the Big Easy basket with foil.

Nutrition

Calories: 36kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 43mg | Potassium: 430mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin C: 69mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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