tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23785190824211808932024-02-22T11:23:16.707-08:00Musings & Messes from My Hall to YoursThank you for stopping by...Dig in and be amused!
A 'Mess Hall' isn't the only place to feed a crowd...many of us do it every day right from our own kitchens.
IT IS YOUR MESS, YOUR HALL...fill it with Living, Love, and Laughter!Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-55239350873937810762014-12-05T10:05:00.003-08:002014-12-05T10:05:44.685-08:00<h2 style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jalapeño Popper Dip</span></span></h2>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Ingredients:</div>
<div class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
1 4oz can diced jalapenos, well drained<br />2 fresh jalapeno or serrano peppers (seeds in-optional)<br />1 8oz package cream cheese, softened<br />1 cup sour cream<br />1 cups shredded cheddar cheese<br />1 cups shredded longhorn cheese<br />3/4 cup + 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese (not the canned stuff)<br />1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs<br />4 tablespoons butter melted<br />1 tablespoon fresh or dry parsley minced<br /><br />Instructions</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
In a mixer or by hand, combine cream cheese and sour cream.<br />Add cheddar & longhorn cheese, 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, and diced peppers, mix well.<br />Spoon into 8x8 baking dish, spreading evenly.<br />Blend bread crumbs, melted butter, 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese, and parsley, using a fork or your fingers, until crumbly.<br />Sprinkle the buttery crumb topping evenly over the cream cheese mixture.<br />Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, or until hot and breadcrumbs are golden brown. Do not overcook.<br />Serve with bread, tortilla chiips or crackers.<br /><br />***ORIGINAL IDEA FROM:<br /><br /><span style="line-height: 15.3599996566772px;">Linda Tylke Curren</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<i class="_4-k1 img sp_t-8-gleovb7 sx_ae08de" style="background-image: url(https://fbstatic-a.akamaihd.net/rsrc.php/v2/yv/r/nYbXUeVDx2c.png); background-position: 0px -6843px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: auto; display: inline-block; height: 16px; vertical-align: -3px; width: 16px;"></i>✿´¯`*•.¸¸✿Follow me for daily recipes, fun & handy tips, motivation, DIY ideas and feel free to share your favorite things too:)<br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/loseweightwithlinda" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;">www.facebook.com/groups/loseweightwithlinda</a></div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-36638764977719563472013-10-25T09:39:00.001-07:002013-10-25T09:40:55.057-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB-AtrCVAqdJTVMIRSO8wWXrIt3igmnej84eR7cH9JycAbYMkT2RERyua9KTLJsAF2KgtWc9w1MSdLKRjHy2pzYt9xm27z7fIX9dSXL1SlOzd6Q-HaO5kB356KNbcoUIo8wTISRAxyIV9/s1600/Noodles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB-AtrCVAqdJTVMIRSO8wWXrIt3igmnej84eR7cH9JycAbYMkT2RERyua9KTLJsAF2KgtWc9w1MSdLKRjHy2pzYt9xm27z7fIX9dSXL1SlOzd6Q-HaO5kB356KNbcoUIo8wTISRAxyIV9/s1600/Noodles.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Needs more water!<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">MADE FROM SCRATCH NOODLES:<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />1- beaten egg</span><br class="kix-line-break" /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2- TBS milk</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1.5 tsp salt</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1- c flour</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-627715c7-f070-cba4-5166-90732cde0d76" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beat egg, milk, & salt.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Add enough flour to make a stiff dough.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Knead on floured surface until pliable.</span><br class="kix-line-break" /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Roll thin.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Let stand 20 min.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Roll up loosely and slice ¼ inch wide.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unroll, spread noodles out, cover with a towel or paper towels.<br class="kix-line-break" />Dry two or more hours or store in a container, in a cool place, until needed.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />Drop into boiling broth, soup, or salted water and cook, uncovered 10-20 min.</span><br class="kix-line-break" /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Makes 3 cups noodles.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" />For a big pot of soup, X4 the ingredients, and cut the noodles big and wide, almost like dumplings.<br class="kix-line-break" />You can make them thin, (they dry out faster) or for a white sauce, or an Alfredo sauce dish.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />You can sprinkle into the flour: shredded cheese, herbs, cracked pepper, seasonings etc….<br class="kix-line-break" />Don’t be afraid to get creative! </span><br class="kix-line-break" /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Try different types of flour</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">*********************************************************************</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
CHICKEN SOUP:<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1-whole chicken--rinsed, giblets removed</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1-gallon water</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3-6 carrots--cleaned left whole</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3-6 celery stalks--cleaned, left whole</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 whole sweet onion-- quartered</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1-bulb garlic-- peeled, left whole</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 TBS Sea salt or other salt</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">ADD any of the following herbs & spices:<br class="kix-line-break" />bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, basil, pepper</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-4c4d6f7e-f078-85c8-c979-841204c72e93" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toss all in a big pot, bring to a boil, reduce heat & simmer for 4-6 hours or all day.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Add water as needed to keep chicken submerged.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chicken is done when it falls apart.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />Lift everything out with a slotted paddle or large slotted spoon.<br class="kix-line-break" />Chop carrots and shred chicken or chop and set aside.<br class="kix-line-break" />Bring broth to a boil and drop in noodles. Cook 10-20 min. until cooked through.<br class="kix-line-break" />Add back chicken and carrots.<br class="kix-line-break" />Simmer and stir, add some milk, flour or anything if you do not want a clear soup.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHdWn0XMKZyw7BAskvVfjlk5xX8IXorUSsIxmW89XA2dui6wBQT-EoO9Iq17MhRGy4v4RmGsg89cc1lMEbayBubhr4EWQEXM1Kj8cwAUhfG8wnE76inApOkRhg1MGYu1iTDq8_430tuq-/s1600/Chicken+Soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHdWn0XMKZyw7BAskvVfjlk5xX8IXorUSsIxmW89XA2dui6wBQT-EoO9Iq17MhRGy4v4RmGsg89cc1lMEbayBubhr4EWQEXM1Kj8cwAUhfG8wnE76inApOkRhg1MGYu1iTDq8_430tuq-/s1600/Chicken+Soup.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over Finely Chopped Kale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />We serve it over finely chopped Kale & sprinkle with red hot pepper flakes.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />***Leftover Alert: It is better the second day after storing overnight in the frig.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-9910747524856718052012-11-01T15:47:00.001-07:002013-02-19T18:24:30.072-08:00Beer Chasin' Salsa (er-Tijuana Sauce) Crack a Beer and get out the Kleenix!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAf-uv6mxh_RzEjtdtfT4l-umm7Bw-6C3kvyWNu7EtO6QnA_9mmjND6qUvwrqqtc4ZprmtByAt5RPERm9Z1xx9FspRO05g5aogza8v84MOcwtiu3oukbkr15bG8DDbScug6Tss68IiJEL/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+1retouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAf-uv6mxh_RzEjtdtfT4l-umm7Bw-6C3kvyWNu7EtO6QnA_9mmjND6qUvwrqqtc4ZprmtByAt5RPERm9Z1xx9FspRO05g5aogza8v84MOcwtiu3oukbkr15bG8DDbScug6Tss68IiJEL/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+1retouch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is not for the weak!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A neighbor lady from Tijuana taught me this recipe. It can be modified by using other kinds of peppers & chilies. It is great with pork, on chips, or a thin coat on bread for an after-Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich.<br />
<br />
You really can't do anything wrong with this recipe if you stick to the below base. Remember that "less is best" when it comes to the SALT and OIL. The more lemons the tarter, the more tomatillos the weaker (less tomatillos and more peppers = HOTTER).<br />
<br />
When I have blackened the peppers in the house, everyone runs out the doors coughing so grilling them is best unless you have a great vent or another way that you blacken peppers.<br />
<br />
You will Need:<br />
<br />
4- handfuls of Serrano peppers (de-stemmed and blackened either on a grill or in a frying pan but if you do it in a frying pan beware--everyone in the house will be coughing!)<br />
<br />
20- medium size Tomatillo (peeled, washed and boil till soft)<br />
<br />
1-Large Onion of your choice peeled and chopped (sized for blender)<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dJyM6mbEa3SqoZX41el1iciMxVZM_PQkNef7PeZhzwguQDutSoFhxgjXi2nI2c7qErYAIEWEezQVS8vPJIrSdoX0ZBLbLL6c_xUP8oHmxbCu_tPCfScB4fZm6n6yy1m6upBcosvXyJRg/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+2retouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dJyM6mbEa3SqoZX41el1iciMxVZM_PQkNef7PeZhzwguQDutSoFhxgjXi2nI2c7qErYAIEWEezQVS8vPJIrSdoX0ZBLbLL6c_xUP8oHmxbCu_tPCfScB4fZm6n6yy1m6upBcosvXyJRg/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+2retouch.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Set out Ingredients & Blender</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1-2 Bulbs Fresh Garlic peeled,<br />
<br />
3-6 Lemons (depending on your taste)<br />
<br />
1-3 Tbs Virgin Olive Oil<br />
<br />
1 tsp-2 Tbs Salt<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJ_9zJZ-wlrOWlCUMkCIFCXEWs9cSw4L6NBNXICxAHxTzK0QmCTSiTR6_AGIxbZpnpxSQopSHL9L3-XTlCfbLd2EtuFUfbJItC8Lk4yFgMXdYxRXYMmdS0Yx_WqqBmmzgeUIOIhRcMMUh/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+3retouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJ_9zJZ-wlrOWlCUMkCIFCXEWs9cSw4L6NBNXICxAHxTzK0QmCTSiTR6_AGIxbZpnpxSQopSHL9L3-XTlCfbLd2EtuFUfbJItC8Lk4yFgMXdYxRXYMmdS0Yx_WqqBmmzgeUIOIhRcMMUh/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+3retouch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blacken Serrano Peppers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijyQzG4X2RaZ5zH-yrhdY2xifnXw-74YBWEpxBZCkEYY33rArzG5djyp5nAiVupIIdFYdDDHnvyET4naKFCFbKCu9SvllU9g6OLkzzYtEVh6UPrfMI6amnEiiKuv09hum_3j3QEr7L2b3/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+4retouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijyQzG4X2RaZ5zH-yrhdY2xifnXw-74YBWEpxBZCkEYY33rArzG5djyp5nAiVupIIdFYdDDHnvyET4naKFCFbKCu9SvllU9g6OLkzzYtEVh6UPrfMI6amnEiiKuv09hum_3j3QEr7L2b3/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+4retouch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boil cleaned Tomatillos until soft</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSBl9KkpRtoXl9Bdjy4Se_1jVt9C1KG9WKmtRuvM36G-tqpuEYhj3BRVlTtsIVfoKUu1qqD5B4WLhh7mbFuponpu682qfBbzrACzZSW8Dz0Iz6d45PDKdty6jTMZ5MAC_DYbJZZqtUiTu/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+5+retouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSBl9KkpRtoXl9Bdjy4Se_1jVt9C1KG9WKmtRuvM36G-tqpuEYhj3BRVlTtsIVfoKUu1qqD5B4WLhh7mbFuponpu682qfBbzrACzZSW8Dz0Iz6d45PDKdty6jTMZ5MAC_DYbJZZqtUiTu/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+5+retouch.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When cool enough Add EVERYTHING to the Blender except Salt (do that to taste)<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBf37is70RAL5r990D5-yHWssYYS6403-FdTtAof7iHmztFQxkuLuSvJTzmHAmN6IF0I-HPATv67KINvc2hHa4kTrCLy-n5cuOqZAJ08TSBjsEF7DcySZ77JUo-3yqhSVmFFy0O2EMxIc0/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+6+retouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBf37is70RAL5r990D5-yHWssYYS6403-FdTtAof7iHmztFQxkuLuSvJTzmHAmN6IF0I-HPATv67KINvc2hHa4kTrCLy-n5cuOqZAJ08TSBjsEF7DcySZ77JUo-3yqhSVmFFy0O2EMxIc0/s1600/Beer+Chasin+Salsa+6+retouch.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pulse and Blend until Smooth Add More Lemon Juice as needed<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz97Zmb5TLRAgGRrVTYbnVarhj76TTZhxspwetJPitb7dhr12Sv4r00VaUw26q7MT6VowYJyGbIUeT4J2b_6ZioWNBU8J16PAj7CVAZOGy_wkbLzbPSqXoc29yi9Ps8uwlI2E53MS-9OcM/s1600/+Beer+Chasin+Salsa+7+retouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz97Zmb5TLRAgGRrVTYbnVarhj76TTZhxspwetJPitb7dhr12Sv4r00VaUw26q7MT6VowYJyGbIUeT4J2b_6ZioWNBU8J16PAj7CVAZOGy_wkbLzbPSqXoc29yi9Ps8uwlI2E53MS-9OcM/s1600/+Beer+Chasin+Salsa+7+retouch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can be Frozen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZviAxE2iBYBnEYW9ayrDRYIAol3a1FrLDJhxbPWV0GYg9ShOJDXl-sd-zGI1FgZ8m-Cb-KX1OoCaA1bLI9gN7juRZIBntmhz0yp3RZ0Tjx6uDfRlg2dJNO7uJebyPx_BzLu1bIWIpaccv/s1600/17713_10151404582882860_855738390_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZviAxE2iBYBnEYW9ayrDRYIAol3a1FrLDJhxbPWV0GYg9ShOJDXl-sd-zGI1FgZ8m-Cb-KX1OoCaA1bLI9gN7juRZIBntmhz0yp3RZ0Tjx6uDfRlg2dJNO7uJebyPx_BzLu1bIWIpaccv/s320/17713_10151404582882860_855738390_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>The darker<br />you char the peppers the darker the sauce</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-54702387701128070432012-10-24T11:53:00.001-07:002012-10-24T11:57:04.813-07:00NO SOS! Easy Mess for Breakfast!<br />
<div class="caption" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16.5px;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Chow!<span style="line-height: 16.5px;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10.909090995788574px; line-height: 16.5px;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAvfmGuyXpRqqDc_E1ZwaDosOGvsIRqPyTabalHz2QHq4cBmlmpMJAUtGPkjlX1GEMYd3VFtmGiAwEoqgzj_H5gKauj-VlipSb_YxKjo_6qhMd1YYt8L0HE2-t49TcPSUozN5zt1eFFBw/s1600/Mess+breakfast+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAvfmGuyXpRqqDc_E1ZwaDosOGvsIRqPyTabalHz2QHq4cBmlmpMJAUtGPkjlX1GEMYd3VFtmGiAwEoqgzj_H5gKauj-VlipSb_YxKjo_6qhMd1YYt8L0HE2-t49TcPSUozN5zt1eFFBw/s1600/Mess+breakfast+1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HOT OUT OF THE OVEN!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">Mess it up the easy way! I have used this recipe for years. It can be (partially) made-ahead; Or it can be baked a whole day ahead (flavors blend overnight--just warm it slowly in an oven); it can be made in an iron skillet, electric skillet, crock-pot or the oven. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes it does take a while to bake, but the aroma pulls everyone out of bed and into the kitchen without a word.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In a pan (or your iron skillet) simmer the following mess (except the shredded cheese) until heated through and bubbling:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />2 cups of any kind of cooked meat (in this picture I used left-over cooked hamburger --so the prep-time was 10 min)<br /><br />1 cup chopped or sliced sweet yellow onion<br /><br />1- 14 oz can of ANY tomato-based salsa, fire roasted salsa, or the El Patio's...(I used, "Salsa Fresco--Salsa de Chile Fresco") <br /><br />1- 4 oz can chopped jalapenos or chilies<br /><br />2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese--(keep this ASIDE for step three)<br /><br />Remove from heat and/or keep in frig for the next day or: Place mixture into whatever you are going to bake it in.<br /><br />Mix the following: <br /><br />1 pkj "Jiffy" corn muffin mix (or 2 cups of made-from scratch cornbread OR 2 cups of Bisquick)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 eggs<br />1/2 cup ricotta cheese, (OR: cottage cheese, or any other kind of creamy cheese that you like)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup melted butter<br />1/2 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)<br /><br />*****************</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2-1 cup whole milk, butter milk, or 1/2 & 1/2 (add milk last--you want a pancake-like batter) <br /> <br /> ***Depending upon your altitude, you my need to adjust the milk accordingly. Higher altitudes may need more liquid.<br /><br />Before Baking: Sprinkle meat mixture with sharp cheddar cheese (and/or sliced scallions)<br /><br />Pour the above over the meat mixture. Cover and bake for up to 1 hour depending on altitude (knife inserted comes out clean).<br /><br />Remove from oven, heat, or turn crock to low....sprinkle with any cheese-- longhorn is great.Cut, flip, and serve with salsa, picante, sour cream, jalapenos, sliced scallions, leeks, black beans, etc...</span><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPXsT2hbBwGedvRUg6dLAuxf1goJzvPLcc5SfE5rsTMJEdUsnusorcPHZ5ywT7l_GxdDs6ZSyHCSXWnIXPrYrVJwyD1SLsCU3HXSjZKcqGqLhUgfu-RuM2ikW3FTyRJv-ILP7-xzMS4-Y/s1600/Mess+breakfast+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPXsT2hbBwGedvRUg6dLAuxf1goJzvPLcc5SfE5rsTMJEdUsnusorcPHZ5ywT7l_GxdDs6ZSyHCSXWnIXPrYrVJwyD1SLsCU3HXSjZKcqGqLhUgfu-RuM2ikW3FTyRJv-ILP7-xzMS4-Y/s1600/Mess+breakfast+2.jpg" height="170" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; text-align: center;">I poured the meat mixture into a baking dish and topped it with the cheddar, and then the batter<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-size: large;">There are so many variations to this!<br /><br />Meatless? No problem (use a veggie in place of meat just stir-fry it first, then simmer in salsa or fresco). </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You can use water instead of dairy, You can also substitute all the ingredients for low-fat. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Other ingredients to add to the meat mixture: veggies, various onions and peppers, multiple kinds of meats, etc..<br />Other ingredients to add to the corn-bread mix: 1 can creamed corn, 1 can whole kernel corn, canned pimento, green or black olives, etc..Experiment and have fun! <br /><br />Just make sure that the batter is the consistency of pancake batter before you pour it over the meat.<br /><br />** This recipe can be multiplied like mad...just make sure that the batter is the right consistency.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVQ_bdp6PVtUGrrUToFGNVbTSyk9Erlkv7J32VkSSUELfFG-8inf0VEwMgNXiSQPwfTVmDXkg-VjPrrh8gO1cEEVcwSZPWXnSuJeLab_8Z2eRetQsNYFt34DuCKT3qa007yidygVy3q2E/s1600/Mess+breakfast+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVQ_bdp6PVtUGrrUToFGNVbTSyk9Erlkv7J32VkSSUELfFG-8inf0VEwMgNXiSQPwfTVmDXkg-VjPrrh8gO1cEEVcwSZPWXnSuJeLab_8Z2eRetQsNYFt34DuCKT3qa007yidygVy3q2E/s1600/Mess+breakfast+3.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 17.27272605895996px; text-align: justify;">Copyright 2012 by Soni Cido. All rights reserved. </span><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 17.27272605895996px; text-align: justify;">This material may not be published, rewritten or redistributed.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-10707039845377993902012-10-18T11:25:00.001-07:002012-10-24T11:56:32.867-07:00The Holidays are Coming! "How to Cook for a Big Group"--With Stay at Stove Dad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.stayatstovedad.com/.a/6a00e55503a4a388340167695157a5970b-pi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.stayatstovedad.com/.a/6a00e55503a4a388340167695157a5970b-pi" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.stayatstovedad.com/stay_at_stove_dad/2012/08/how-to-cook-for-a-big-group-.html">Stay at Stove Dad: How to Cook for a Big Group</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-352751191220806882012-09-23T15:14:00.000-07:002012-09-23T15:17:09.702-07:00So I Am Also a "KP" in My Own Home!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD19fgmtQe48nOT38taCIZWsxk9NXIKWoR9SKhCGkr5cSRbSouNmZQQSJAN237QgH40uW2OMWB0e8l_V2cmDHd6zzhzc6zitKM_kdKTfLU_NQ9c4rluJ1pQeWjx6_-3GLCmXTtiF6SusNT/s1600/nmess5schistory.net.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD19fgmtQe48nOT38taCIZWsxk9NXIKWoR9SKhCGkr5cSRbSouNmZQQSJAN237QgH40uW2OMWB0e8l_V2cmDHd6zzhzc6zitKM_kdKTfLU_NQ9c4rluJ1pQeWjx6_-3GLCmXTtiF6SusNT/s320/nmess5schistory.net.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full Story at:
<a href="http://www.schistory.net/campcroft/messhall.html">http://www.schistory.net/campcroft/messhall.html</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>According to Joe Lipsius, the "Kitchen Police" were nothing more than the kitchen janitors. He writes:</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><small style="font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide';">"I remember with much pleasure my first encounters with the Mess Hall of Co C,</small><span style="font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide';"> </span><small style="font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide';">32nd Inf Trng Bn, IRTC, Camp Croft, SC, just outside of Spartanburg, SC...</small> </i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><small style="font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide';">The Mess Hall had its bad side, though. That was when you had to work kitchen police, better known as "KP." By some magic formula which was never explained, we all had our turn working in the kitchen in various jobs such as "firing the boiler", working the "pots and pans" sink, etc. After three or four turns at "KP," I finally earned Sgt. Stout's respect to the point he offered to make me a cook if I wanted to work in the kitchen. I said, "No thanks, Sarge, Sir. I like the food and I don't mind the kitchen work, but I like close-order drilling and marching better so I'll stick to doing it."</small><span style="font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide';"> -JL</span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide';"><br /></span></span></i></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide';">In my house, the "magic formula" showed up on my kid's a chore chart when I wasn't assigning myself to it.</span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #cccccc; font-family: 'Xerox Serif Wide'; font-size: 20.909090042114258px;"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-45975110334047868592012-08-27T20:53:00.001-07:002012-08-27T21:09:15.891-07:00Great Depression Cooking - The Poorman's Meal<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3OPQqH3YlHA?fs=1" width="459"></iframe><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-82811571902966304162012-08-03T22:43:00.001-07:002012-08-03T22:52:22.012-07:00Feeding the Masses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZRq00B4N_6xnKO0Vku3ARWnYBPDHXbE9q2F8-hKChh61pRffo8S_yq32U4fMwckKNL0W1uCpMB0_QI6WELnyRpkWyN6yd-1L_g9IjvgKfccXx94FKtS1sm7s_ac2Vf6trh7BVJz5ceR4/s1600/Chow+Hall+West+Point+modern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZRq00B4N_6xnKO0Vku3ARWnYBPDHXbE9q2F8-hKChh61pRffo8S_yq32U4fMwckKNL0W1uCpMB0_QI6WELnyRpkWyN6yd-1L_g9IjvgKfccXx94FKtS1sm7s_ac2Vf6trh7BVJz5ceR4/s1600/Chow+Hall+West+Point+modern.jpg" /></a></div>
Do you or do you not feel that cooking for anyone but yourself is like, 'feeding an army'? I do. But now after reading this blog, I think that, I might not be feeling that way so much anymore! Pancakes for a thousand? At West Point? where everything is perfect and disciplined?<br />
<br />
Check this out:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.esquire.com/features/food-drink/huge-food/army-food-0311">http://www.esquire.com/features/food-drink/huge-food/army-food-0311</a>
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-84700106062316889572012-06-09T17:23:00.001-07:002012-06-09T17:38:56.756-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-wHMFHoiwKRkBiYD_gD4HCBQ1t0xU0DyS4wA1-vHG20fXB-4-KEyTs7XEPWis_5rVqadGNGxQWIGH0s6NjhrdlFu_wUy-XIy3EwX9dyZ5QOsw_hUFN9MjZQHYdJoCabb8A2_7DTd0OsR/s1600/551124_10151668598803357_1571931182_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-wHMFHoiwKRkBiYD_gD4HCBQ1t0xU0DyS4wA1-vHG20fXB-4-KEyTs7XEPWis_5rVqadGNGxQWIGH0s6NjhrdlFu_wUy-XIy3EwX9dyZ5QOsw_hUFN9MjZQHYdJoCabb8A2_7DTd0OsR/s320/551124_10151668598803357_1571931182_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
How many of us have <i>never complained </i>about a meal that we were served? Ditto.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yet most soldiers have always had a reason to complain. Since the beginning of organized military, feeding the soldiers has sometimes been such a huge task, that keeping them healthy, satisfied, and full, ranked last priority (if at all) on the mess hall to-do list.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Back in the day, and even now, military meals have either been ignored, completely dismissed, or the brunt of hundreds of jokes.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A former Veteran told me that when he was in service 47 years ago, most cooks and meals were referred to as, "Gut Cheater". Another man at a VFW dinner told me, "The word was, and still is, 'anything will go down with Tabasco'." A round of laughter broke out as those at my table joked about military meals of the past....<i> if </i>they could be called "meals". Nutrition was never a concern, but filling the gut was the goal even if it was not always possible. Overweight soldiers were unheard of because overeating and lack of exercise just didn't happen. And many had suffered starvation.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
These days, however, body fat is a concern for the military. According to Jim Gourley via blog: <a href="http://ricks.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2011/06/02/blog_comment_of_the_other_day_here_is_how_to_straighten_out_the_armys_pt">http://ricks.foreignpolicy.com</a>, "...one in every three service men or women are obese". </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Even if overeating is not the culprit, lack of exercise, cheap, low-quality food, and available junk food is. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="comm_meta" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 15px 15px 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: right; width: 130px;">
<span style="color: #000033; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="usr_comment" style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: double; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; color: #333333; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; width: 380px;">
<div class="comm_title" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: #1f1f1f; float: left; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.7em; margin-left: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<a class="active" href="http://ricks.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2011/06/02/blog_comment_of_the_other_day_here_is_how_to_straighten_out_the_armys_pt#comment-648621" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">In Fort Rucker, Alabama, I've</a></div>
<div class="comm_body" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 0px 15px 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 1.1em; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
In Fort Rucker, Alabama, I've seen cooks throw lard on the short-order grill line. Is it too much to ask to get something without trans fats, please?</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 1.1em; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="username nvy_blue" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: right; color: #000033; display: inline-block; font-size: small; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.2em; margin: 1px; outline: 0px; padding: 1px; text-align: right; width: 125px; word-wrap: break-word;">
STARBUCK</div>
<div class="time_stamp" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: right; display: inline-block; font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; margin: 1px; outline: 0px; padding: 1px; text-align: right; width: 125px; word-wrap: break-word;">
4:59 AM ET</div>
<div class="date_stamp" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; clear: right; display: inline-block; font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; margin: 1px; outline: 0px; padding: 1px; text-align: right; width: 125px; word-wrap: break-word;">
June 3, 2011<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-56151855366936600762012-05-09T11:41:00.000-07:002012-06-09T17:39:47.341-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Growing up in the 60's and 70's it was very common for a parent to say to a child, "Do NOT take more than your stomach will hold!" OR "There are starving kids in China!" (some parents said, "Africa"-- my parents preferred China for some reason.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media.nara.gov/media/images/39/2/39-0170a.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://media.nara.gov/media/images/39/2/39-0170a.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;"></span></div>
<h1 class="itemTitle" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #d5e0ea; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; color: #000059; font-size: 1.5em; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.5em; padding-left: 0.5em; padding-right: 0.5em; padding-top: 0.5em;">
Photograph with caption "Cafeteria Lines in Mess Hall</h1>
<h1 class="itemTitle" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #d5e0ea; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; color: #000059; font-size: 1.5em; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.5em; padding-left: 0.5em; padding-right: 0.5em; padding-top: 0.5em;">
at Naval Barracks Area," U.S. Naval Ammunition </h1>
<h1 class="itemTitle" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #d5e0ea; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; color: #000059; font-size: 1.5em; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.5em; padding-left: 0.5em; padding-right: 0.5em; padding-top: 0.5em;">
Depot, Hastings, Nebraska., 1944?</h1>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Taking a closer look we can see that the sign on the wall </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">says</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">that 'any wasting of food will be followed with disciplinary </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">action'. (can that advice even be comprehended by kids </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">these days?)</span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-25816174147271870412012-04-09T11:42:00.001-07:002012-06-09T17:40:46.349-07:00Help Feed Someone Besides YourselfI have been in the situation where I did not know how I was going to feed my family. I can live on apples and potatoes but children need nutrition.<br />
<br />
Even though I had always given to food shelters and food drives over the years, when it came my time to get help, it was not so easy.<br />
<br />
Check out the link Below. Snickers is willing to give out two meals to every bar code that you enter. Watch for "specially marked" bars.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.snickers.com/default.htm">http://www.snickers.com/default.htm</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Here is their partner:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://feedingAmerica.org/">http://feedingAmerica.org/</a><br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-1151139153100632922012-03-07T16:57:00.003-08:002012-06-09T17:41:48.837-07:00Kitchen After-Laughs<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Kitchen disasters are fun stories to tell and to hear about. I call them, "after laughs" because nobody laughs 'till long after the disaster.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My worst kitchen disaster was when I was about 23 years old. I started 4T of oil and three kernels of popcorn sizzling around in a heavy pan (</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">for those of you who have no idea how to make popcorn grandma's way, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">you wait until the three kernels pop, then you add a cup of corn and swirl it around until it is popping like crazy, reduce the heat and keep shaking until the popping stops).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Because I had a mild case of 'attention deficit' (before it made the news and after I found out that it can come in handy when one has screaming toddlers) what do you think that I did right then?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Guess.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I went outside to help my son and I forgot to go back into the house.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Soon the black fog came rolling out of the kitchen window, I ran to the scene which, by now, was flames shooting two feet above the pan! and like a silly young girl, I grabbed the pot, ran outside with it, and flung it down into the gully!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thankfully, I did not trip over the dog with the scorching oil and nobody was burned. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I was able to repaint my kitchen that week to cover the horrible smell.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">However, my four-year-old son had to enlighten all the neighbors, my family, and friends as to why I was painting my kitchen.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Momma almost burned down the house and all she was making was a snack!"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Years later, I learned that in a case like that, a lid dropped on it would have stopped the drama quite quickly with little risk to me, my son or the dog.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-88307068892366029052012-02-29T08:58:00.000-08:002012-06-09T17:43:08.277-07:00Camp Cooks and Lumbarjacks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDPRK5gHEl-ac-sQx4mdukZZrmqSk2Ts7tneU1vyTCUEP3kSpJej7LVG1gUAZEnBm_kFT4mF4HG-wvPJvcSfUEQ9ZafH20ZlFG174jjO9k1I2mKWvfnLdwHSj8Axr-2tomBj6sJ7QnMFf/s1600/1800s+mess+hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDPRK5gHEl-ac-sQx4mdukZZrmqSk2Ts7tneU1vyTCUEP3kSpJej7LVG1gUAZEnBm_kFT4mF4HG-wvPJvcSfUEQ9ZafH20ZlFG174jjO9k1I2mKWvfnLdwHSj8Axr-2tomBj6sJ7QnMFf/s320/1800s+mess+hall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px;">Taken from: Wexford County Historical Society & Museum online album</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am always amazed when I think about the days when providing a meal was so much more than prepping food and turning a knob. And in a camp like this, the cook was under a lot of pressure to satisfy...these men <i>worked</i> hard and burned food faster than race cars and gasoline.</span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-20180463861454081942012-01-18T18:02:00.000-08:002012-06-09T17:44:33.874-07:00Progressive DinnersA "Progressive Dinner" is when a group of 6-15 people get together and go as a group from house to house..eating a full-coarse meal along the way. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Four people (or couples) agree to welcome and serve in their home, one portion of the four coarse dinner to the guests.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The appetizer at the first home</div>
<div>
The dinner salad at the second home</div>
<div>
The main dish at the third home</div>
<div>
The dessert at the fourth and final home</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It really is a lot of fun! It is not that big of a deal to prepare just one portion of a meal even if it is for up to ten people. It's a great way to make new friends and get to know each other better.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-13935820199564122692012-01-12T21:45:00.001-08:002012-01-12T22:09:41.516-08:00<div>
The Smithsonian published this excellent article about the history of the soup kitchen (public mess hall).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://blogs.smithsonianmag.com/food/2010/12/count-rumford-and-the-history-of-the-soup-kitchen/">http://blogs.smithsonianmag.com/food/2010/12/count-rumford-and-the-history-of-the-soup-kitchen/</a><br />
<br />
And then there are those who believed that Al Capone set the first Soup Kitchen in motion:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h1660.html">http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h1660.html</a><br />
<br />
YOU decide. I like both ideas.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-88820403073448368262012-01-03T17:22:00.000-08:002012-01-17T18:03:23.754-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAUab4cpgIK4vMfS2XtzHbwiyYFqXQfb-Ntt9kFrFnee12dRb-eIqlA5K1UsOVTky37e7NYUeZvYC_M5wKZ9OCl_CZV3G3KGwznlYSgWzbNoImadGbd_vDI46U6WGu9Vq882lAVp0EjGj/s1600/Me+in+RED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAUab4cpgIK4vMfS2XtzHbwiyYFqXQfb-Ntt9kFrFnee12dRb-eIqlA5K1UsOVTky37e7NYUeZvYC_M5wKZ9OCl_CZV3G3KGwznlYSgWzbNoImadGbd_vDI46U6WGu9Vq882lAVp0EjGj/s320/Me+in+RED.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well, the season of major messing is over! Eggnog, Spinach Pom Poms and lots and lots of snacks were in the hall every turn of the Holiday! Here is hoping that 2012 turns out all good things for you, yours, and the Mess Hall Cook Book :)</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-54770084165058552452011-08-12T09:47:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:47:09.357-07:00The Satisfaction of a Pot Well DoneFor those of us who feel that cooking for others "completes" us, a pot well done has many meanings...<br />
<br />
To a health expert, 'well done' means the absence of parasites and the dangers of illnesses caused by eating under-cooked food.<br />
<br />
But to a cook like me, a 'Pot Well Done' means, everyone loved the meal and went away wishing I had made more! that's when we pat ourselves on the back and say, "well done"!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-59403479142168972822009-12-22T07:07:00.000-08:002009-12-22T08:07:05.141-08:00FUEL FOR THE TROOPSWhile scrambling to feed the family, we forget that our family isn't the only hungry bunch on the block...do you ever wonder about those who defend our freedom? <br />The military troops must be fed as well. Usually, when we hear the word "troops" we picture fighting, and explosions...but how do they fuel themselves with the strength that they need to withstand war? Who does that? what do they eat? How does the food get to them?<br /><br />I will have stories about today's Military Mess Halls-but while searching,I stumbled upon Bob Hersey's K Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment site. He answered most of my questions about military dining experiences.<br />http://www.ktroop.com/messhall.htm<br /><br />He is also featured here:<br />http://www.seabeecook.com/cooks/<br /><br />Bob Hersey's stories put me right in the mess hall with him and his connoisseurs, even though it was years and years ago-during the Vietnam War. Bob's cooking experiences, (from the time he was 12 years old!), warmed my heart, made me laugh, and brought tears to my eyes. To my delight, I found a useful recipe! Large quantities, yes. But it won't take a rocket scientist to figure out how to down-size the portion.<br />The longer it cooks, the better it is:<br /><br />My Not So Famous "S-O-S"<br />****************************************************<br />"Shucks-On-A-Shingle" - you translate. Every GI since Hannibal crossed the Alps has eaten or at least encountered SOS. It is best described as a plate of mouse droppings in wallpaper paste served over burnt toast. It's actually quite good (but remember I lost my taste buds in the war). <br /><br />Start with 10 pounds of ground beef (hamburger). The fatty kind is best. Brown the beef in a large saucepan with salt, pepper, finely chopped onions and a splash or two of Worcestershire sauce. This next ingredient isn't in any of the Army's cookbooks but I always added a generous portion of cooking sherry. If I didn't have sherry I would add cognac. Once browned, add a cup of water, a cup of whole milk and bring to a boil. Slowly stir in 1/2 cup of bread flour. This thickens the mixture. Lower the heat and cook slowly for about 5 minutes. If the sauce is too thick add more milk. If it's too thin add more flour. Hint: It's best if the final product is a little on the "thin" side because as it sits in your mermite can, it will thicken up. Serve over toast or better yet, hot biscuits. Any leftovers may be used as brick mortar by the engineers.<br />****************************************************<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-40183435461737272712009-12-01T06:29:00.001-08:002009-12-01T07:11:16.332-08:00Live, Love, Laugh"Live, Love, Laugh!" This is always my theme when feeding my family. We may not always get along, or agree with each other-but the one thing that I insist upon, is that everyone enjoy the meal.<br /><br />This year, for Thanksgiving, we were blessed by several generous people who brought food, made dishes, and came to share it with us. While we had our meal at 7 p.m. here at the house, we began the day of feasting at 11:30 a.m.-at a little Pub up the road who puts on a free meal each year. We played pool, met new people, and hung out and laughed with old friends.<br />Then, we moved on to the next pub-which is a large, new log building...this dinner was fancier and more hushed-even candle-lit...but not as much fun-however, the food was unreal!<br /><br />Back at home-we forgot how long the potatoes take...it was ok, by the time they were ready, we really did have an appetite again.<br />Three hams, a huge turkey, tons of sides and pies...<br />Caos, noise, loading of the plates...talking with full mouths and going back for seconds...loading pans to send home with guests.<br /><br />I looked around me and gave thanks for my crazy, loud and noisy life :)<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-50077253132148039472009-11-12T16:34:00.000-08:002009-11-12T20:56:54.774-08:00Feed the CrowdA friend of mine, Stephen, came by today and made the BEST meal for our family! It was fast & easy-but the best part-SOOOO GOOD!! AND for the mess hall-this recipe can be multiplied unlimited!<br /><br /><br />STEVEORITOS :)<br /><br />FRY: 1# Bison Burger or Beef Burger (drain if needed) <br />Add and Warm Through: 1 pt of salsa non-chunky (hot,med.or, mild)<br /> 1 can of Ranch Style Beans with Jalapeno<br /><br />Sprinkle tortilla with shredded cheddar cheese; microwave for a few seconds to melt. Smear a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt on tortilla & add a few spoonfuls of meat mixture.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">SAPORIFIC</span>!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-1995038633118525322009-06-15T09:56:00.000-07:002009-06-29T09:21:40.303-07:00Open Your HomeNo matter if you "feel" adequate or not, have someone in this week. Offer baloney sandwiches and lemonade if you have to! ask a friend who doesn't care, and build a memory that you both will cherish. The food will probably be forgotten- but your hospitality will lodge in their heart forever.. Keep it Simple!<br /><br />It's your Hall! Make your Mess, and your friend will be blessed!<br /><br />Lemon-Limeade:<br />A refreshing summer sparkler for even the hottest days. Needed:<br />7 Lemons<br />7 Limes<br />1 c Sugar<br />Seltzer <br /><br />Combine:<br />1 c sugar<br />1c water <br />bring to SIMMER while stirring (in small saucepan)until sugar is dissolved<br /><br />Peel:<br />6 strips off a lemon<br />6 strips off a lime<br /><br />Slice in circles:<br />1 lemon<br />1 lime<br /><br />Squeeze:<br />lemons to get 3/4 c juice<br />limes to get 1/2 c juice...reserve them<br /><br />ADD:<br />lemon and lime peels PLUS 1 c water to the saucepan; let sit 2 min<br /><br />Transfer to a picture along with reserved juices, and slices<br /><br />ADD:<br />1 c. Seltzer<br /><br />Chill & Serve in Ice-filled glasses<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-9497759027629619012009-05-27T13:04:00.000-07:002009-05-27T17:00:57.710-07:00Dog FoodRecently, my daughter's bull dog had two mishaps-with one requiring surgery. Both times, the vets told us to make him table food and do NOT feed him any kind of dog food during his healing process; and to eventually get him back on dog food but a little mixed with table food every day.<br /><br />"Why?"But we thought that table food is forbidden! (even though we never listened to that, and have always given our large outdoor dogs left-overs just like grandma did).<br /><br />The Vet explained that, table food is much easier to digest, and more nourishing than dog food. We were to make sure that it was full of protein (unlike many dog foods) such as, eggs; cottage cheese; and meat mixed with vegetables. Now, why didn't I go to vet school?<br /><br />DUH!<br /><br />I didn't have the heart to tell them that I had already knew that, and that I did plan to do it. You see, I have always had large outdoor dogs. Since they eat so much dog food, I have always purchased cheap dog food for them, and then fed them nourishing table food and leftovers. The only large dog that has passed away on us was 17 years old and way beyond old-age (119 years old in people-years!).<br /><br />So, what am I getting at? what does this have to do with cooking for your family? EVERYTHING.<br /><br />If you feed junk food to your family, as do way too many American households, and then you turn and feed that table food to your dog, then your children will not be healthy, and your dog will die.<br />Animal advocates do not trust us to know the difference between healthy and unhealthy because Americans have proven that we are a but confused about the subject.<br /><br />Healthy food has never killed anyone.<br />Nor has it killed a dog!<br />Junk food, has and is killing people, and dogs, every day.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-50697801037947329132009-04-30T17:10:00.000-07:002009-04-30T17:21:59.645-07:00Cool Blog DiscoveryWhat have we been doing the last 3 months? Living without internet, working to pay the bills, and researching for our 'Mess Hall Chef' cookbook...<br />Mercy ME can our plate have one more thing on it? Can our cup runneth over any more than that?<br /><br />While "mess"ing around on the internet, we stumbled upon a really cool site-and this blog really could use your input for good summer recipes for kids...<br />http://largerfamilies.com/wordpress/?p=116#comment-753<br /><br />Larger Families (More dishes, more kises, more laundry, more laughter) is a very busy blog written by very busy Mommies: http://largerfamilies.com/meetbloggers<br /><br />Check them out, be encouraged and contribute your input!<br /><br />The Mess Hall Queen<div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-63732206993339444972009-01-31T08:06:00.000-08:002010-01-05T09:55:27.852-08:00A Modern Mess Hall<span style="font-size:130%;">Mess hall dining dates back to the beginning of time when everyone gathered around a fire to eat the latest kill.<br /><br />Today however, we have buildings and organizations that house the hall that the mess is made in: Soup Kitchens are charitable mess halls, there are restaurants serve mess hall style, colleges, schools and some corporations make use of large eating areas called, "cafeterias" and, of course, the Military is all-famous for the mess hall life.<br /><br />Although in many of the examples above the focus is to, "get the job done", there are some who work at making the dining experience fantastic in a mess hall setting. So take heart, you can do it at home as well.<br /><br />My favorite example of a traditional style mess hall diner which boasts hospitality and menu variety is, 'The Mess Hall', located in Springdale Township in Pittsburgh, PA. Their grand opening was, of course, Veteran's Day, 2006. Following is an excerpt from the debut article written by, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rebecca Killian for the Pittsburgh Tribune Review</span>:</span><br /><p> When a restaurant is called The Mess Hall, one might expect the items offered to be bland and uniform in military-like fashion. That's not the case. Each item the Lunch Bunch tried went beyond the call of duty. </p><p>Owner Sam Lane, who was in the military for 22 years and was a cook in the Army's mess hall for 17 of those years, fulfilled a lifelong dream when he opened his restaurant. He says the military ate well while he cooked for the troops and he takes the same pride in offering good quality and service to his customers. </p><p>The mess hall is decorated military-style, with stars in the wainscot and camo and Army jeeps in a wallpaper border. Even the servers and cooks wear flag-oriented clothing or their camo fatigues...</p><p>[examples from the menu]<br /></p><p> Homemade soups are available, with different varieties featured every day. We sampled the <b>Uncle Sam's Potato Soup</b> ($2) and found it to be pretty much how we make the soup -- a thick, creamy base with a hint of onion and celery and chunks of potato. We also had the <b>Southwestern Soup</b> ($2), which was a tasty version of chili with kernels of corn mixed in. This would make a meal in itself. </p><p> The signature meal -- served for breakfast or lunch -- is the infamous <b>S.O.S. Special</b> ($3.95). You have to be in the military to know what it stands for (hint: It's not the signal for help), but hey, this is good stuff. It's ground beef (Lane says he uses only Black Angus beef) mixed with a mushroom sauce, spices and Worcestershire sauce...</p><p>Who would expect to see <b>Crab Cakes</b> ($6.95) in a mess hall? This lunch special included two thick crab cakes that were moist, tasty and lightly fried to a golden brown...</p><p>The <b>Unkempt Joseph</b> (more commonly known as Sloppy Joe) ($4) was another great lunch choice. A large, fresh bun is overloaded with a tasty, homemade concoction of ground beef, chunks of green pepper and a delicious sauce. Although Sloppy Joes are supposed to be sloppy, this one didn't soak through the bun and make a mess of things...</p><p> Appropriately, the Mess Hall celebrates its grand opening this Saturday -- Veteran's Day, of course. </p><p> <i>Compiled by Rebecca Killian. Meals are paid for by the Valley News Dispatch and are unrelated to advertising. http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_478944.html<br /></i></p><p><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">So, you see...you, too can make a mess of your kitchen and do it in style!</span></span><i><br /></i> </p><p> </p><p> </p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2378519082421180893.post-73657724722354876352008-09-12T07:41:00.000-07:002009-01-31T06:58:02.541-08:00Gone Are the Days...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Many of us grew up in the day where every dinner was a, "sit down dinner". Ah! those were the days</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">. However, since then, things have changed, but there is no need to despair.<br /><br />These days, evenings are full of hassles. Kids have more homework than ever. Dads work later than ever, moms work too. No one is around the kitchen at the same time, seven nights a week.<br />When did we go from evening dinners around the table to, dining in a mess hall?<br /><br />Our kitchen turned into a messhall when I gave birth to five babies in four years (yes, two toddlers, twins, a baby) and then a sixth baby in the fifth year. I had four babies in diapers for two years straight. Planned? sort of; but not really. No more than when a mom who chooses a nice career that works with the family, then soon finds herself working overtime six nights a week to keep the career. No one says, "Why did you work in the first place?", but everyone asks, "Why did you have so many kids?".<br /><br />Things change.<br /><br />Don't feel like you are failing your family just because it is 'each man for himself' at dinner time. Just make sure dinner is nourishing and don't serve junk.<br /><br />Instead of getting frustrated because you had other plans for family dinners when you first started a family, try to make a dining experience of the mess, instead of forcing the mess into a dinning experience! I'll tell you how...</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often...</div>Soni Cidohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14135781284820610979noreply@blogger.com0