Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Everything in Between!

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May 31, 2009

Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury

Here are four great ways to prepare delicious rice and chicken dinners! Basically, when you choose which flavor you'd like, add the extra ingredients into Step 1 of your rice preparation.

What you need:
1 large pan with a lid
Olive Oil (Don't be stingy, you will need for frying the rice too.)
1-2 Onions; diced and sauteed
1-1/2 cups Long Grain Rice, uncooked
1-2 Chicken breasts, cooked

**Note** If your chicken is not cooked, here is a tip to cook it faster. Chop the chicken into small pieces, and cook the chicken in a skillet on high with a little olive oil. This will take about 3-6 minutes depending on the size and amount you use. You can be cooking your chicken while you're chopping your veggies, and starting on the rice. Just add it into the rice when it is cooked.

For the Rices:

Step 1. If you are starting from scratch, cook your rice. To cook it use 1 cup or rice, 2 cups of liquid. You can add the onion now, or after 10 minutes of the simmer (in Step 2).

Step 2. Put this all in a sauce pot and bring to a boil. Once it starts boiling, cover the rice and turn the temperature down to medium-low. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally (basically after 10 minutes stir it, and again at 15 or 20).

Wrathfulfury's 4 Seasoning Variations
These four recipes taste particularly good with the Ancona Chickens you can get down at the Mirage Raceway track. You can substitute the Anconas with supermarket chickens.

**Remember** These seasonings are variations that should be added in Step 1 of your rice preparation.

Basic Seasoned Chicken Rice
Instead of cooking the rice in water, use 1 cup of white wine, and 1 can of chicken broth.

Add diced carrot into the rice with your diced onion. Also, add a can of corn (or about a handful of frozen corn).

Tequila and Lime Chicken Rice
Instead of cooking the rice in water, use 1 cup of tequila, 2 cups of salsa, and 1 cup of chicken broth.

Add diced green chillies and corn to taste.

Jerked Chicken Rice
Instead of water, use 1/2 cup jerk seasoning, 1 cup rum, and 1 can of chicken broth.

Add diced carrot, celery, and bell pepper to onions.

Teriyaki Chicken Rice
Instead of water, use 1 cup sake, 1 cup teriyaki sauce, and 1/2-1 cup of chicken broth.

Add diced carrots, peas, and bits of pineapple. Yum!



Tasty Rice Ideas: Cashew Chicken with Ginger, Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury, Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken, Mmm Rice Dinners! Apple n' Chicken Stir Fry, Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle.

May 30, 2009

FTW Lasagna

This is one of the simplest lasagna recipes in all of the lands. Whether you're elite at cooking, or just a noob starting off, it will work for everyone.

Couple notes: You will need an oven safe dish, and it should be around the 13x9 size. All of the prep you will need to really do is brown the ground beef (fresh, or thawed of course). You don't even have to cook the noodles first; making this recipe totally FTW!

The prep will take 8-15 minutes depending on how speedy you are in the kitchen. The bake is for an hour (45 minutes under foil, 15 minutes uncovered).

Mats:
1 lb ground beef (fresh or thawed)
1 egg. beaten
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 container of Ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
1 jar spaghetti sauce.
1 cup water
1 box of lasagna noodles

Step 1: Start off by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Then you will brown your ground beef in a skillet.

Step 2: While you're browning the beef, mix your egg and 1-1/4 cups of your mozzarella cheese, the Ricotta cheese and about 1/4 cup of your Parmesan cheese. Blend these all together, and then set them aside. You should have extra Mozzarella and Parmesan that will be used (Step 7) to cover the top of the lasagna.

Step 3: At this point your ground beef should be about done. When it's finished, drain the as much of the grease out of the meat as possible. Then return the meat to your skillet.

Step 4: Stir in the sauce. If you used a jar of sauce don't throw it out just yet! Instead, add the 1 cup of water to the empty jar, close the jar give it a good shake. Then add this to the meat mixture. If you chose to make your own Nubsauce, be sure to still add this cup of water to your mixture. This is what will be cooking your noodles.

Step 5: spread 1 cup of your sauce onto the bottom of the oven-safe dish. Top this with 3 uncooked noodles. Then layer the noodles with the cheese mixture you made. Finally, top the mixture with your ground beef sauce. Repeat this process for 2 more layers.

**Noodles-cheese mixture- meat sauce.** This is going to be your rotation. =)

Step 6. After you have finished doing Step 5 three times, you're going to finish by adding 3 more noodles, and the meat sauce to your lasagna.

Step 7. Take the remainder of the Mozzeralla and Parmesan cheeses that you divided and sprinkle them on top of everything.

Step 8. Cover with foil, and Bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, you will want to remove the foil, and put the lasagna back in the oven for another 15 minutes to make the cheese bubbly.

After that 15 minutes you'll have yourself one tasty lasagna.



More Pasta Ideas!
Manicotti Made Easy, Spinach and Sausage Mostaccioli, WoW Ziti Dinner, Midsummer Special! Spinach Ziti, Nubsauce, My Favorite Ravioli, Chicken and Mushroom Linguine, FTW Lasagna, North American Goulash.

Grizelle's Easy LAN Party Quiche

Need an idea of what food to make for your next LAN Party? Here's a Grizelle original that will help when the munchies hit all your guests.

This recipe does take longer than a typical flight path, and really is suited for entertaining people. At the bottom of the post, Grizelle has included easy modifications for preparing a single, large quiche (as pictured). This will save you time in preparation, if that is your concern.



Remember to prepare this recipe ahead of time. Bake it while your guests are setting up their computers, so that it's nice and toasty when you serve them.

What you need:
4 Eggs
1 cup Milk
1/2 cup Half & Half
1 bunch of Scallions, chopped fine (about 1/2 cup)
1 cup diced Cooked Ham - about 1/4 inch pieces (I used the Hormel Black Label brand.)
1 cup shredded Swiss Cheese (I like the Amish variety.)
1 package Pillsbury All Ready refrigerated Pie Dough (2 pie shells)
Non-stick muffin tins

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350, and unroll your pie dough. Cut circles in the dough with a biscuit cutter; this is for the quiche crusts. You can get 6-8 circles per pie dough sheet. I took the scraps and rolled them out to get a few more.

**Tip** If you don't have a biscuit cutter, use a large rimmed cup or washed tuna can (they are the perfect size), and cut out the circles. If you're using a cup, make sure that the rim is large enough to produce circle that will fill the bottom and sides of a regular sized muffin tin.

Step 2. Place a dough circle in each ungreased muffin cup, and gently press to cover the bottom, and about a half inch or so up the sides.

Step 3. Place about a tablespoon of the diced ham in each cup. Sprinkle with about a half teaspoon of the chopped scallions, and a tablespoon of the grated Swiss cheese.

Step 4. Lightly beat the eggs, and add milk & half & half. Stir until smoothly blended.

Step 5. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the filling in each cup. Do not pour higher than the dough - you may have to wait a bit and add some more as it has to trickle down. So go back to your comp, and make sure you haven't been ganked.

Step 6. Bake on middle rack in preheated 350 degree F oven for approximately 25 minutes. The quiches will puff up to fill the cups, and will be golden brown on top. A knife inserted should come out clean when it is fully set.

Step 7. Gently remove the quiches using a heat resistant spatula, and place them on a plate to serve.

This recipe made 16 quiches using regular sized muffin tins. You can use smaller or larger tins if you want, but you will have to play around with the amount of dough for the circles, and adjust the cooking time.

If you are concerned the quiches are going to get too brown before they are done, place a piece of aluminum foil loosely over the top for about the first half of the baking time.

For a large Quiche version:
If you want to make one big quiche, simply press one entire pie crust sheet in the bottom of an 8 or 9 inch pie pan. Spread your scallions, ham, and cheese evenly over the crust, and slowly pour the whole egg mixture over the top. Bake at 350 F, for about 30 minutes. Then test it with a knife same as the mini quiches. Just cut into wedges to serve.



Grizelle says, "I made these minis for an office brunch, and they were completely devoured!"

Helboar Bacon Buns, by Ozra, Moon Guard

Although there are many types of boars throughout World of Warcraft, many of us can remember all the Helfire Peninsula boar quests. There were quite a few, but one of the most memorable ones involved purifying the Helboar meat for Legassi, the Chef Extraordinaire. After many failed attempts of purifying the meat (all those Tainted Helboar Meats sitting in your bag), your efforts are rewarded with Legassi's own Helboar Bacon.

Ozra, Moon Guard was inspired by Legassi's generosity, and offers us this treat to serve at LAN Parties instead of ordinary sandwiches. If you make these, your guests will always want to hold the parties at your place.

Another name for this dish is "Lazy American Bacon Buns," a parody of "Latvian Complicated Bacon Buns."

What you need:
1 lb Bacon - your favorite variety
1 large Sweet Onion
3 packages Crescent Rolls (typically 8 per package)
Pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of Butter

**Optional** 1 egg white, sugar

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350 or whatever the crescent roll package tells you.

Step 2. Dice onion

Step 3.Chop/Cut bacon into small pieces (scissors actually work well for this, the bacon may stick together at first if you cut 5-6 pieces at a time, but will separate while being sauteed.)

Step 4. Melt the butter in your skillet.

Step 5. Add the Bacon bits, and onion. Pepper to taste (except if you used peppered bacon).

Step 6. Sauté until bacon is mostly cooked, but not crispy and onion is soft. About 10 min on medium heat.

Step 7.Put bacon onion mix in freezer for 5 minutes, to bring its temperature down.

Step 8. Spoon mixture into unrolled crescent dough. Roll into crescent shapes.

Step 9. Bake for approximately 11 minutes, until crust is golden brown.

**Optional** Use the egg white, and a little bit of sugar to glaze the tops of bacon buns. This will help make the surface crispy.

Ozra says, "These things are freaking delicious, and easy to make!"


More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Tasty Turkey Melt.

May 28, 2009

Telaari Grape Salad

So I've been trolling the forums, and I've seen a few requests for a healthy snack. I think I have something to satisfy those requests. This is a recipe for grape salad.

This is something you would make ahead of time and let cool for a few hours, but you will have lots of left overs and its very, very tasty.

Mats:
2 lbs. Red Seedless grapes (They need to be washed and dried off. I usually throw them into a strainer with a paper towel on the bottom and top, and then I just dry them that way.)
8oz of room temperature Cream Cheese (Now for a healthier snack you could use a light cream cheese.)
8 oz of Sour Cream (again you could use a lite sour cream as well)
1/2 cup Sugar (this could be substituted with Splenda)
1 tbs. Vanilla extract
3/4 cup chopped Pecans (You can find them in the bakery isle at your grocery store.They will have tiny bags of already chopped pecans that work perfectly for this.)
3/4 cup Brown Sugar

Step 1: After you wash and dry off your grapes, you will want to put them in your dish that you will be serving this out of. I use a large chip bowl, because you will have left overs.

Step 2: In a separate mixing bowl, mix everything together minus the pecans. Mix this until it's smooth. Careful though, you don't want it to be runny.

Step 3: Once its mixed up, you will transfer it from the mixing bowl onto the grapes. (I then try to coat all the grapes with the mixture, but you don't have to. You could let it just sit on top of the grapes.)

Step 4: Add the pecans. Cover and let them sit in the fridge for a few hours to chill.

This recipe does take about 5-10 minutes to prep. Plus it does have a cool down time (Don't you love having those IRL too!) But, it will literally take you less than a minute to grab some out of the refrigerator, and have a yummy midnight, mid-day, mid-morning, mid-anything snack. That's both yummy and healthy.


More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Mexican Layered Pie Dip, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Breakfast Ideas: Nubcakes! Aka Whole Wheat Banana Pancakes, Blueberry Nubcakes! Elwynn Forest Lumberjack Special, aka Crepes by Randalflagg, Kiethras's Breakfast Tubers, Sausage and Eggs, Grizzly Frontier Special! Aka Western Style Omelet, Simple Fruits, Great Taste! Telaari Grape Salad, Tundra Berry Salad, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

Merry Making Peach and Apricot Hot Cider

Remember back during the oh so fun time of the Merry Maker achievements, and you had to make hot apple cider? It sounded oh so good. Well, now you can do just that. Only In Real Life.

This recipe will call for a few things you might not have around the house. So you might need to make a trip to the grocery store to farm the mats up. And you will need a slow cooker (Crocpot).

Plus this recipe could easily be turned into a "hard apple cider" for the over level 21 peeps out there.

Mats:
2 Cups Peach Nectar
2 Cups Apricot Nectar
1 bag of frozen peach slices (or you could use fresh peaches if there available)
3 cups water
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 cup brown sugar
about a tsp. allspice - give or take.
2-4 cinnamon sticks, for serving as well.

* Now for the over 21* You could use some bourbon in this, or whatever else you want to spike your cider with. I would suggest using about a cup. But add more or even take some away to fulfill you own alcohol needs.*

Now there is really only one step to this. You will want to take all of the above ingredients and stir them together in your slow cooker. Once you're finished with that, you simply cover and cook it on low for 2-3 hours.

After the 3 hours, remove the cinnamon sticks, and then switch your cooker over to warm for serving.

*Another suggestion* Use the cinnamon sticks you cooked with in your cider. Gives it a little extra flavor.*

And there you have it. Your very own Merry Making, hot peach, and apricot Cider. A cider to make even the Copperpinch sellers jealous.



Crock Pot Recipes and Tips: Grizelle's Pulled-Pork Crock-Pot Recipe, Advantages of Crock Pots, by Grizelle and Zonoma, Helfire Boar Stewin' with Berlena, Monti's Crock Pot Ready Tortilla Soup, Merry Making Peach and Apricot Hot Cider.

Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos

When a Blizzard Blue post purples on the OT Forums.



By the way, this was delicious!

What you need:
1 pre-cooked chicken or chicken breast (sold at most grocery stores)
Diced tomatoes
Chopped onion
1 small can of sliced black olives
1 package of shredded Mexican cheese
1 jar of cheese dipping sauce (usually jarred in the chip aisle)
1 bag of corn chips

**Optional Toppings** Sour Cream and Guacamole dip

Step 1. If your chicken is not cooked, cook the shredded chicken in some taco seasoning in a pan on the stove (since the pieces are small this will only take 2-3 minutes).

Step 2. Layer chips, cheese sauce, chicken, shredded cheese, tomato and onion as desired.

Step 3. Top with slice back olives.

Step 4. Place in microwave for approx 1 minute to slightly melt cheese or place in a 325 degree oven for five minutes.



Top with optional toppings and enjoy.



Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Tacos, Tacos, Tacos! Mexican Layered Pie Dip, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Quickee Quesadillas, OMG Fajita Tuesday! Burrito Style Enchiladas, Mair's Super-Simple Taco Soup, Monti's Crock Pot Ready Tortilla Soup, Burrito Style Enchiladas, Mini Burrito Dessert.



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Mexican Layered Pie Dip, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken

The flavors from this dish will make you recall the back-and-forth pvp battles in Hillsbrad. It is especially reminiscent of those battles before you leveled your main to 80, and you were there for the first time.

**Note** This is a fantastic recipe to use up leftover rice, or you can start it from scratch. It will take longer than many of the recipes on this site, but is great for slow nights on WoW. Ya know, the ones where you're sitting in LFG for hours. It will take approximately 15-20 minutes to cook.

If you want to use a shortcut on the seasoning, you can also use a jar of sweet'n'sour seasoning, which you can find in most grocery stores. Just pour it on to your chicken and your veggies, let it marinade for 20 minutes, cook the chicken and veggies. Serve over rice.

What you need for this relatively easy sour, sweet chicken:
2 cups brown rice (White rice will work too, and if you have some leftover, or some minute rice that will cut a lot of time from this recipe)
1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce (can do low sodium if you want)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons apricot preserves
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 pound chicken tenders, cut into small pieces
4 cloves minced garlic
2 teaspoons grated or minced ginger
1 cup chicken broth
6 cups of pieces of vegetables, china peas, bean sprouts and bell peppers (changeable.. I prefer these but have heard others who like broccoli in theirs)
1 5-ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained... Peanuts also work

Step 1. Prepare rice like normal (usually can microwave or use a rice cooker for better results).

Step 2. Whisk vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch and apricot preserves in a small bowl. Set aside for now...

Step 3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes or so. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink on the outside and just starting to brown in spots, about 2 minutes more. Transfer to a plate. I like to put them in the microwave or stove to keep them warm.

Step 4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic and ginger to the pan and cook, stirring until fragrant. Add the broth and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Add vegetables and reduce heat to a simmer; cover and cook until the vegetables are tender but crisp, roughly 4 to 6 minutes. Stir in water chestnuts and the chicken. Whisk the reserved sauce and add to the pan. Simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is heated through, about 1 minute. Serve with the rice.

Keep in mind you could also use peanuts or other vegetables, those are just my preference on them.



Tasty Rice Ideas: Cashew Chicken with Ginger, Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury, Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken, Mmm Rice Dinners! Apple n' Chicken Stir Fry, Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle.

May 27, 2009

Goodlee's Cranberry Mayonnaise

All this is is 1/2 and 1/2 of cranberry sauce and mayo, mixed together. Don't use miracle whip, because that already has a bunch of zest to it. Stick with real Mayonnaise for this dressing.

This is particularly tasty on Turkey based sandwiches and wraps.

Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt

Today I was in Oculus and ran out of mana biscuits. Feeling hungry, and with my cannibalize down, I looked up and saw one of my party members. There she was in front of me. A nice tasty looking Boomkin.

"Oh Boomkin, how lovely you'd be on a sandwich," I called out.

How sad I was when she turned into a kitty and ran off. :*(

I later found her cowering beneath Dalaran. She was hiding with all the rats, near a pile of skulls from lost fighters. I couldn't help but feel a little sorry when I cursed her with agony, and corrupted her mind with shadows. But alas, and as I presumed...she tasted delicious!



What you need:
2 slices of toast
4-5 slices of Turkey
1-2 slices of Swiss Cheese (or Provolone)
A few slices of cucumber to give the sandwich a little crunch

Dressing: Honey Mustard, Ranch, or Goodlee's Cranberry Mayo would all taste good on this sandwich.

All this involves is toasting your bread, grilling your turkey, slicing your cucumber, and melting your cheese. Put it all together, and you have a tasty Boomkin melt.


More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Tasty Turkey Melt.

May 26, 2009

Kim'Jael's Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu

Melted Swiss, and a thick slice of ham embedded in a chicken breast; baked to warm and gooey perfection. This is a classic dish that is really simple to make. It makes me think of leveling outside of Stormwind. All the little chickens, pigs, and cows walking around, never knowing that I would hit 'em with my mace. Mmm, they sure were tasty!



You can serve it with a cream sauce or by itself. The breadcrumbs can be a little dry so I do recommend preparing a sauce. If you don't like the creamy sauces, you can try this with chicken gravy, but use sparingly as that will drown out the flavor of the chicken.

The cream sauces for the Cordon Bleu are usually pretty simple. Use a base of heavy cream, a little butter (1-2 tablespoons), and then are seasoned with onions (or shallots). I like to add a little garlic, and some fresh chopped parsley.

What you need:
2 Chicken Breasts
3 slices of Swiss Cheese
2 thick slices of Ham
1 Egg
Breadcrumbs to coat

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350. While this is heating you have 2 options with your chicken.

Option A. Butterfly the chicken breast (slice it open, but do not cut all the way through, so that it resembles butterfly wings). This option will allow you to easily stuff the breast.

Option B. With a meat hammer pound the chicken breast to about a 1/4 inch height. This option will allow you to wrap the thinned breast around the Ham and Swiss. If you are serving to company this option has the visual appeal.

Step 2. Stuff or wrap your chicken around the ham and Swiss.

Step 3. Quickly beat your egg, and dip the stuffed chicken. In a separate bowl, add the breadcrumbs. Dip your egg-coated chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating the surface.

Step 4. Lay the chicken onto an oven-safe pan (coat with foil for easy cleanup).

Step 5. Bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes. To make sure that your chicken is cooked, jab it with a fork. If the juice is clear, then you're good. If the juice is pink, cook it for another 5-7 minutes, then check it again.



Enjoy with some wine! (As long as you're of age that is.) ;)

May 25, 2009

Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, by Anise

This sandwich was submitted by Anise, and sounds really tasty!

I don't recommend this for everyday eating as it is a bit of a calorie bomb, but if you're having friends over for a LAN or something a little can go a long way.

What you need:
1 loaf French bread
6-10 slices Swiss cheese
4-8 slices of bacon
Green onions
Butter or butter-like substance

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350.

Step 2. Slice the French bread into thick slices. Do NOT cut the bread all the way through. Leave a little membrane of crust attached at the bottom. Using your acrobatic skills, lightly butter both sides of the bread accordion's slices.

Step 3. Tear the cheese in half and insert one half between each slice of bread. Chop up the green onions and cram those in there too.

Step 4. Finally, remove the fatty bits from the uncooked bacon (it's better this way) and lay it across the top of the slices of bread. Don't worry, this won't hurt you.

Step 5. Put the bread accordion on a baking sheet and pop in oven. Cook it until the bacon is done.

WARNING: Do not eat this all yourself in one sitting.


More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Tasty Turkey Melt.

Molten Core Chicken, by Anise

This recipe is simple to make, but it has some ingredients that not everyone may have. So, get your butt out to the store! ;)

If you're a sissy when it comes to hot n' spicy, then skip this dish. It might not be as hot as a volcano, but it's pretty well up there on a lot of folks' spicy threshold.

What you need:
2 chicken breasts, cut into the smallest pieces you can get
However much garlic you like. It's a sin, but I use the stuff in the jar. ;)
As many Bird's Eye (or other hot) Chiles as you can handle (I usually use 3-4.)
1 Tbsp fish sauce
1 Tbsp soy sauce (I don't measure these, just glug it in until it looks like enough)
2 cups Fresh Basil (I like to use freeze-dried basil as my plants die all the time, so I use enough to coat the chicken), chopped up into little ribbons (chiffonade, if you're fancy)
1 tsp sugar
3/4 tsp Sambal Oelek (red chili paste)
Enough Sriracha to make your eyes water (I have to go light on this as my fiance doesn't like spicy, I just keep the bottle on my desk for my own purposes.)
Pepper to taste
Oil for cookin'
Rice for servin'

Step 1. Heat up the oil in your pan. In the meantime, chop up your chiles, leaving the seeds intact.

Step 2. Add the chiles and your garlic (from the jar or minced) to the hot oil. Fry this for 2-3 minutes or until nice and fragrant.

Step 3. Add the finely chopped chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4. Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, sambal oelek, and sriracha. Continue to cook until the chicken is done, another 3-4 minutes. At this point the sauce is sort of thin, so I cook on med-high heat until it reduces to where it is not too saucy, but it more clings to the chicken.

Step 5. Add the basil (if you use freeze dried, toss in a handful, that should be enough to coat) and pepper (I do about 12 grinds of the ol' mill, your mileage may vary). Cook until the basil is wilted (or if freeze-dried, until reconstituted) and serve over rice.
Add more sriracha if needed. :3

**Optional** Try this recipe with a little Cumin!

May 24, 2009

Super Stuffed Ganking Apples

These apples rock. They're very simple. Most of the mats you will usually have laying around the kitchen anyway so it will work out really well for you.



Mats:
4 larger apples (take your pick of apple, they all work)
1 tsp. Lemon juice
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup of either instant oatmeal or rolled oats
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
4 tablespoons butter (cut into individual slices)
1 tsp. cinnamon
*optional* chopped walnuts

Step 1. Alright, you will want to start off by preheating your oven to 425 degrees. While the oven is heating up you will want to take the insides out of the apples leaving the bottom so that nothing falls out. But you need to hollow the apple out as best as you can. You could save the apple bits (minus the core) that you took out and use them in the oat mixture (which is step 3).



Step 2. When your done that sprinkle each one with some lemon juice.

Step 3. In a separate large bowl you will want to mix the rest of the ingredients (minus the slices of butter) *this is where you would toss in the apple bits*

Step 4. Then take about a handful and begin to stuff the apples. Do not completely fill them. When you finish putting the first handful in each, evenly distribute whatever you have left into each apple.

Step 5. Take your slices of butter and put them on top of the stuffed apples.

Step 6. Place the apples on a cookie sheet, and bake for 20 minutes.

When you take them out you could top them with ice cream and/or whipped cream (Zonoma has an easy whipped cream recipe you could use).



You're all set with a rather healthy snack. Now go camp some gankers! The stuffed apples will make the experience all the better. =)


More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Mexican Layered Pie Dip, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

North American Goulash

This is a twist on the elbow macaroni goulashes that are often included in cookbooks. Not only is it a great way to use up left over ground beef (or cubes), it is so easy to make. True this is not a Hungarian stew, but it is sure to please. :)



What you need:
1-1.5 lbs of cooked ground beef (or cubes); seasoned with salt, pepper, parsley, onion flakes, and basil.
1 box of Rotini noodles
2 cans of Italian style, diced tomatoes
1 can of tomato sauce (for seasoning, try the Nubsauce recipe)

Top with some Parmesan and/or Mozzarella Cheese

Step 1. Cook your noodles, and brown your seasoned ground beef.

Step 2. Add the canned tomatoes to the drained noodles.

Step 3. Add your Nubsauce to the cooked beef. Let this simmer, covered and on low heat for about 15 minutes.

Step 4. Mix the Beefy Nubsauce to the noodles and tomatoes.



Presto! A delicious meal for 4-6 people.


More Pasta Ideas!
Manicotti Made Easy, Spinach and Sausage Mostaccioli, WoW Ziti Dinner, Midsummer Special! Spinach Ziti, Nubsauce, My Favorite Ravioli, Chicken and Mushroom Linguine, FTW Lasagna, North American Goulash.

Nesingwary Stromboli

Okay, I figured that we had to come up with a recipe to use all the animals from the Nesingwary quest chains. I mean really, I cannot even count how many creatures I've killed for those guys on all my toons.

I must say that they sure are tasty as a Stromboli!



This Stromboli was made by a friend, and was delicious.

What you need:
6-8 slices of Ham (Black Forest Ham tastes awesome in this.)
10 slices of Salami
6 Slices of Provolone
1/2-1 lb Seasoned and browned ground beef (Season it like you would a meatball.)
Spicy Brown Mustard
**Optional: A little Parmesan Cheese and/or Mozzarella to top Stromboli
Pizza dough (homemade or store bought)

Dipping Sauce: A thick tomato sauce goes great with this!

Step 1. Season and brown your ground beef. This will take about 15 minutes on medium heat. Just stir to flip the meat occasionally.

Step 2. Preheat the oven to 350, and roll out your dough. Smear a little mustard on the surface. Leave about an inch of space from the edges, so that it doesn't squish out.

Step 3. Line with your meats. Check the image at the top of this entry if you're confused.

Step 3. Add the cooked ground beef.

Step 4. Roll your Stromboli. Think of a jelly roll, replicate this idea. Pinch the edges together. Brush with a little olive oil, and add the cheese topping.

Step 5. In an oven-safe pan, bake at 350 for approximately 25-35 minutes. When the Stromboli crust is nice and golden brown, it is finished.

Let cool for about 5 minutes before slicing.


Similar Recipe Ideas to Try: Goodlee's Monster Stromboli, Summerfest Spinach Calzone, Pepperoni Calzone, Sausage and Peppers Calzone, Nesingwary Stromboli.

May 22, 2009

Manicotti Made Easy

If you're a stuffed shells fan, Manicotti will be up your alley. They can be a little trickier to fill, but you can always slice the cooked Manicotti lengthwise, fill, then bake and serve with the slice on the bottom.


The above picture is of Manicotti stuffed with pepperoni and garlic. You can add some mozzarella too!

What you need:
1 Package of Manicotti Shells
1 Large container of Ricotta Cheese
Shredded Mozzarella to taste
Tomato Sauce (Try the Nubsauce for a Corn-Syrup Free Tomato Sauce).
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Pepperoni (optional)
Spinach (optional)
Black Olives (optional)
Mushrooms (optional)

Typical Italian Seasonings (Fresh if you have them!): Parsley, Garlic, Oregano, Basil.

Step 1. Boil the water for the Manicotti. Use some salt or olive oil to help prevent the shells from sticking to each other. Cook the Manicotti for 7-10 minutes, after the water is already boiling.

**Tip** Drain the hot water asap, and run some cool water over the pasta to stop it from cooking further.

Step 2. Preheat your oven to 350, and prepare your fillings. What I like to do it mix the spices and other treats into the Ricotta. If you're going to add tomato sauce to the Ricotti, use it sparingly as that will make the Manicotti more difficult to stuff.

**Filling Ideas: With all the filling choices, mix your choice with the Ricotta, a little Parmesan and seasonings.

Pepperoni and Mozzarella. Chop the pepperoni and add that and the mozzarella to the ricotta.

Spinach and Garlic

Mushrooms and Spinach

Spinach, Black Olives, and Onion

Seasoned and Browned Ground Beef (tastes like a meatball!)


The above picture is of Manicotti stuffed with Spinach, Tomato Sauce (use sparingly), garlic, onion, and is topped with Mozzarella and oregano.

Step 3. Pour a little tomato sauce on the bottom of an oven safe pan. Place the stuffed Manicotti on top. Coat with a little more sauce and some mozzarella cheese. The sauce will help keep the Manicotti moist, and prevent them from sticking.

**Tip** Do not overcrowd your pan. Leave about a pinky-finger space between each Manicotti to prevent them from sticking to each other.

Step 4. Bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes (until the top is bubbly and the cheese is melted).

Let your Manicotti cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. This will help prevent them from falling apart.


More Pasta Ideas!
Manicotti Made Easy, Spinach and Sausage Mostaccioli, WoW Ziti Dinner, Midsummer Special! Spinach Ziti, Nubsauce, My Favorite Ravioli, Chicken and Mushroom Linguine, FTW Lasagna, North American Goulash.

May 20, 2009

Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes

This recipe is from a modified version of the whipped cream recipe.



What you need:
3/4 cup of whipping cream
2-2.5 teaspoons of sugar (you can substitute this with 1-1.5 packets of sweet and low)
1.5-2 tablespoons of unsweetened Baking Cocoa

Just whip these up as you would normally.



Add a spoonful or two of the cream to the shortcake, and decorate with the strawberries. In the second picture, the mint is for decoration, not eating. ;)

**Note** For a lower-carb treat, leave the shortcake out. Just dip some strawberries into the chocolate cream.


More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Mexican Layered Pie Dip, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

Tacos, Tacos, Tacos!!!

Tacos are an easy meal to make, and if you make them yourself they taste about 1,000 times better than Taco Bell. Seriously, they are delicious.



The recipe below is for the entire box of shells. So if it is just you, you should make less.

What you need:
1-1/2 lbs of ground beef (80/20), browned
1 small to medium slicing tomato, chopped
1 small to medium onion
A few pieces of lettuce, cut into strips
Cheddar Cheese, shredded (to top)
1 package of taco shells (I like the standing ones you can now get. It makes them a lot easier to fill.)
1 large deep, oven-safe dish

Seasoning: You can either use a packet of taco seasoning, or season them yourself with Cumin, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, and a little salt pepper, all to taste. For a little extra yumminess, add in a little chopped, fresh cilantro.

Step 1. Brown your ground beef in a large pan on medium. Make sure to break up the large pieces, and flip them to brown all sides. This will take 5-10 minutes. You don't have to watch it like a hawk, but don't leave it alone too long.

Step 2. Pre-heat the oven to broil. Drain the meat when it is all browned. Add your seasoning and a little bit of water. Stir to coat the meat in your seasoning. Let this cook on low for a few minutes.

Step 3. Place the shells in rows in your oven safe dish (lined with foil for easier cleaning). In the shells, place a thin layer of lettuce, then some cooked and seasoned meat. Add on the onions, tomatoes, and if you'd like a few slices of black olives, or some jalapeno bits. Finally, coat with some cheese.

Step 4. Broil until the cheese melts (about 2 minutes).

Now that's some tasty tacos!



Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Tacos, Tacos, Tacos! Mexican Layered Pie Dip, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Quickee Quesadillas, OMG Fajita Tuesday! Burrito Style Enchiladas, Mair's Super-Simple Taco Soup, Monti's Crock Pot Ready Tortilla Soup, Burrito Style Enchiladas, Mini Burrito Dessert.

May 19, 2009

Strawberry Shortcakes with Real Whipped Cream in under 5 minutes!

Summertime is here, and strawberries are in season. This is a super fast dessert to make.



I saw a few local vendors selling these strawberries on the side of the road, and had to stop! :)

What you need:
1-2 Strawberries per cake
1 strawberry shortcake/sponge cake (You will often find these right next to the strawberries in the grocery store.)
~2 tablespoons of whipped cream per cake

Step 1. Make your whipped cream. You can use the canned stuff, but why would you?! Fill the shortcake with approximately 2 tablespoons of whipped cream.

Step 2. Cut 1-2 strawberries (depending on their size) longways. Add to the cake.

Step 3. Decorate the cake any way you like. For example, a delicious chocolate truffle in the center will make this a decadent dessert.



I sprinkled a little cinnamon on one cake, and place a mint leaf on the other. Be as creative as you'd like.



**Tip** If you are making these for guests, don't forget to stick them into the fridge until you are ready to serve them.


More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Mexican Layered Pie Dip, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast

If you have never tasted real whipped cream then you are in for a treat.

I used this recipe to make some strawberry shortcakes, and with some of the left over whipped cream, I made my coffee into a treat. You could also just dipped your fruits into the cream for a lower-carb, reduced sugar treat.

Each cup of heavy cream will yield twice as much whipped cream.

What you need:
3/4 cup of whipping cream
2 teaspoons of sugar (you can substitute this with 1 packet of sweet and low)
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)

Step 1. With a hand or standing mixer, beat the ingredients on medium to high speed until soft peaks form. This will take about 2-4 minutes. You can use a wire whisk, but it takes longer.

That's it! Inorite! Sooo easy, and it's worth it.

Variations: If you'd like to season your whipped cream, try adding a little of any of the following ingredients: cocoa powder, almond extract, cinnamon, syrups for flavoring coffee (no more than a teaspoon or two).


More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

Caitlin's Southern Style: Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs

Alliteration ftw! But seriously now folks, this is a great finger-food that will not make a mess of your keys. Master your one-handed playing skillz with this dish.

A delicious egg dish- famous in the South!

Serving size: 6 eggs yields 12 devilled eggs

You will need:
6 eggs
Mayonnaise
Mustard (the squirt kind is easiest)
Salt
Pepper
Paprika

Step 1. Place the eggs in a pot and cover with water. You don't need to fill up the pot- I usually fill it halfway, so that it covers the eggs with some room to spare. Heat on the stove until it comes to a rolling boil.

Step 2. Let the eggs boil for a few minutes (but no more than 10), then take them off the hot eye until the water cools to the point that you can reach in and grab an egg.

Step 3. Take the eggs out of the pot and into a bowl. Cover with cold water. You can leave these in there as long as you like. This step is optional, but strongly advised- it keeps the shell from sticking and tearing the egg when you peel it.

Step 4: Tap the eggs gently (GENTLY!!!!) against a hard surface to crack the shell. Peel off the shell in pieces until the egg has no shell remaining, and set it to the side. Repeat until all the eggs are shell-less.

Step 5: Cut all the eggs in half. In a medium-size bowl, gently squeeze the halves until the yolk is released into the bowl.

Step 6: Mush all the egg yolks with a fork. Try to get them as squished as possible. You don't need to be gentle here. Start to add mustard. Go easy on it- you can always add more later if you need it. Two good squirts should be plenty for you.

Step 7: Mix this up, then add the mayonnaise. A good rule of thumb: use about twice as much mayonnaise as you do mustard. Start with 3 good dollops. Add a pinch each of salt and pepper. Mix to combine.

Step 8: Taste your mixture. If it is too bland for you, add a little bit of mustard. If it is too strong, add some mayonnaise. You will also need to test consistency. Spoon up a little and let it drop. It should be loose, but not soupy. If it just falls off the spoon and immediately blends with the mixture in the bowl, it is too soupy and you have added too much mayonnaise. If it is very chunky or thick, and you have to shake it off your spoon, you need to add mayo. If you have added too much mayo, don't fear- your eggs can be saved. Just go back and boil another egg or two. After you have de-shelled them, squish them extra fine, including the white, until it's the same consistency as your egg yolks before the mayo and mustard, then mix it with the rest. Problem solved!

Step 9: Once you've got the taste and consistency right, spoon some mix into each egg half. You should put enough to fill each hole, and have some extra, but not too much! You don't want the goop falling all over your fingers when you apply a little pressure to the sides. Top with a little bit of paprika. Place in the fridge, or eat right away. Voila! You've made devilled eggs!!

**Tip** It helps a lot if you hold the eggs under running water, the colder the better, while you peel them.



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Mexican Layered Pie Dip, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

Classic BLT

BLT sandwiches have always been one of my favorites. Its three simple ingredients meld to produce some of the greatest sandwich flavors.



These sandwiches remind me of late summer, when tomatoes are at their best.

What you need:
4 pieces of bacon, cooked (I used a nice thick cut pepper bacon.)
2 big slices of a juicy tomato
1 piece of lettuce
2 slices of your favorite bread, toasted

Dressing: Usually a little mayo, but you could try with ranch, cream cheese or mustard.

Make it into a melt by adding a slice of cheese. YUM!


More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Tasty Turkey Melt.