Monday, February 13, 2012

Broccoli & Cheese Soup

A tasty, creamy, comfort soup for these chilly nights.

Broccoli & Cheese Soup
adapted from Pioneer Woman

1 onion, Diced 
1/2 c olive oil
1/3 c flour 
2 c milk 
2 c chicken stock
2 heads broccoli
1/2 head cauliflower
1 c carrots
1 pinch Nutmeg 
salt
pepper
red pepper flakes
3 cups Grated Cheese (mild Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, Jack, Etc.)

Heat oil in a pot over medium heat, then add the onions. 
Cook the onions for 3 to 4 minutes, then sprinkle the flour over the top. 
Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute or so, then pour in milk and chicken stock. 
Add broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and spices.
Cover and reduce heat to low. 
Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. 
Stir in cheese and allow to melt.
Then either serve as is, or puree with a stick blender.

Saturday, February 4, 2012

soaps are ready!

My shop is being stocked and ready for some Valentine's Day shopping!
Grab some good smelling soaps and lotion for your gals (or yourself)!

Friday, February 3, 2012

Chicken-Veggie Tray





So there isn't even a recipe for this meal. 
Very easy. Very versatile. Very tasty.

Simply take some chicken -legs, thighs, whole chicken cut-up, whatever- and drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Put on a cooking tray and broil on high about 6 inches away from broiler, turning until brown on both sides (about 6 min per side).

Next, add any veggies you want: potatoes, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, onion, etc. 
Drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper.  
Add to tray of chicken and move to about 10-12 inches away from broiler.
Keep an eye on it and stir it once and a while. 
Pull out when chicken is 165* and veggies are soft. (approx. 20 min.)

Some veggies, like broccoli, won't take as long to cook and you may want to add in the last 10 min.

There you go! A whole meal on one tray!
Add whatever fixin's you like- BBQ sauce, bread and butter, a salad