German Pancakes

Since I homeschool (online) my kiddos, I make breakfast everyday.  And when you're making breakfast practically everyday of the week, you needs some options in your recipe repertoire! Here's one that I found years ago, and decided to make this morning. It's super easy, and feeds approx. 6 people.

German Pancakes
6 eggs
1 c. flour
1 c. milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 Tbsp. melted butter
berries, syrup, powdered sugar, whip cream (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 400.
2. In a 9x13 casserole dish/baker, add the melted butter, making sure to coat pan entirely.
3. In a blender, carefully crack the 6 eggs into a blender. Add the flour, milk, salt & vanilla. Blend for approx. 30 secs. Pour out into the prepared 9x13 dish, and place in oven for 20 minutes. When it comes out it will be very puffed up, but will flatten a little with time. Cut into 6 squares, and serve with fresh berries, syrup and a sprinkling of powdered sugar. You could also add a dollop of whipped cream if you desire.

Shepherd's Pie My Way

It's fall in Colorado again, and so I'm bringing out the comfort food recipes again.  And one of the best comfort food categories is casseroles.  I'm not sure if shepherd's pie is technically a casserole, but...works for me!  I'm sure everyone has their "secret ingredient", but I'm willing to share my secret for adding some great flavor to a slightly bland dish. Instant stuffing!! Yep, no rocket science here. But if you are a fan of the instant box stuff, then you'll be willing to try it too. I suppose you could also use a recipe of fresh stuffing/dressing, but I leave that for the holiday turkey dinners. Here's my version of shepherd's pie:

1 lb. ground beef
1 16 oz. package of frozen mixed veggies (your choice)
2-3 medium sized potatoes, peeled, boiled and mashed (or use instant for ease)
whatever spices or additions you want for flavor in the meat & veggies (i.e., Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic salt, etc.)
1 regular box/package of instant stuffing (I prefer chicken flavor), prepared and cooked.

1. Preheat your oven to about 350-375 degrees.
2. Fry up your ground beef until browned well, adding your desired seasonings/spices. Drain the grease/fat if you have any.
3. Preheat your veggies, then add them into the cooked meat, and mix well.
4. In your baking dish, add a little cooking spray. Then scoop out the stuffing into your baking dish evenly, patting it down. Then layer on the meat & veggie mix evenly. Next evenly spread out the mashed potatoes over the whole thing. You can sprinkle a little cheddar cheese and parsley, if you so desire.
5. Place it in the preheated oven and cook for about 20-30 minutes, until the top is lightly golden brown.
6. Serves approximately 4-6.

Posole

 

2-3 lbs. cubed pork

2-3 lbs. hominy (posole), drained

2 (8oz) cans of tomato sauce

¼ c. chicken bouillon granules (caldo de pollo or caldo de tomate)

Spices (chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cilantro, garlic pdr., salt, pepper – all to taste)

 

Combine all ingredients in crock pot and cook on high for 4-5 hours, or low 8-9 hours,  OR cook in big pot for approx. an hour or so on low to medium simmer, until pork is tender.