Filed under: Baking
Who says you have to be in New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras, the French word for Fat Tuesday, is the last day of the Carnival season and falls the day before Ash Wednesday (and always 46 days before Easter). Why not celebrate this upcoming Fat Tuesday with some classic Mardi Gras recipes. Invite your friends, hand out Mardi Gras masks and beads and bring a little of the Big Easy to your block!
Easy Recipes for your Mardi Gras Party
Make Ahead Recipes for your Mardi Gras Party
Mardi Gras Drink Recipes
For a traditional drink to serve at your Mardi Gras party, try a New Orleans Hurricane. Need a festive drink for all ages? Try this non-alcoholic Hurricane recipe .
Mardi Gras Fun Facts
- Mardi Gras was actually originated in Mobile, Alabama in 1703
- Purple, green and gold are the traditional colors of Mardi Gras. The purple represents justice, green is faith and gold symbolizes power.
- Mardi Gras is a legal holiday in New Orleans
- King cake is the traditional treat for Mardi Gras. Similar to a coffee cake, they are brightly decorated with the colors purple, green and gold. A tiny baby doll is hidden within one of the slices. Custom dictates that the “lucky” recipient who gets the piece with the baby throws the next Mardi Gras party (or bakes the next King Cake).
What is your favorite Mardi Gras recipe?
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March 3, 2011
With the current chill in the air, I can’t think of another comfort food that warms you from within like chili. Similar to what I found while writing The Great Stuffing Debate, people are passionate about their chili. From beef to vegetarian, beans or no beans, there is a chili for everyone. In addition to being so versatile, chili is a great way to feed a large family. And with hectic schedules being the norm, this dish is perfect for leaving on the stove to feed your hungry crew as they arrive home at different times. Another option is to make slow cooker chili that can be easily put together before you leave for work (it can cook for up to 10 hours on low). When you arrive home from a long day, the enticing aroma will greet you at the door – add a salad and cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
My friend Linda mentioned that her favorite part of eating chili is adding different toppings. Enter an Aha! moment for my next get-together at home – a make you own chili bar. In addition to the traditional shredded cheese, diced onions, and sour cream, I am going to put out bowls of cilantro (Linda’s favorite), limes, sweet corn, crushed corn chips, diced peppers, and slices of cornbread. Another friend of mine Nicci, along with her husband Mike sponsor a chili cook off at their home. This year there was a tie that resulted in a taste off between the top two chilies. How much fun is that?
*Need some jazzy cornbread recipes to serve with your chili? Check out Corny Beer Bread with a Mexican Twist or Spicy Corn Muffins with Cheddar perfect complements to your chili
*Want an all in one dish? TSG’s Chili Potpie with Cheddar Beer Biscuit Topping will hit the spot.
*Perfect for Meatless Mondays, try my favorite chili recipe The Best Vegetarian Chili Recipe in the World – even meat eaters will ask for seconds!!
*Did you know that there is an International Chili Society? Check out their informative website for upcoming chili cook-offs.
What is your favorite way to warm up with chili?
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February 10, 2011
Sometimes, we get inspiration and can plan for weeks how to treat our Valentine to a great evening! Sometimes, it seems a little harder to make the time. We always try to keep a date night – and to honor Valentines Day! After 30 some years, it’s important! This year we’ve been hammered by snow storms, and I’ve been on the road a lot. With Valentines Day on Monday, I need something to set the stage – that’s easy after work.
Mood Makes the Difference – Set the Table!
At least setting a romantic table is easy in our house. We have candles everywhere – and candles are still the most romantic setting. With the right accessories and a little romantic music – you’re on the way to a special evening.
Great Dinner Ideas – Quick and Straight to the Heart
For a Monday night celebration, I believe in planning ahead. This is one day that starting something in the slow cooker can really make a difference. If you want just a simple dinner, a bowl of steaming Minestrone soup with yummy warm Beer Bread can make all the difference. The soup you can do that day or the day before. If you crave something more substantial- then Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore could be just the way to warm your honey’s heart. A little Avocado and Orange salad makes the meal complete
Just getting home late – you can always do Chicken with Mango Peach Salsa for a little extra fire!
Chocolate, Chocolate everywhere!
Chocolate is the food of love. With TSG Breathtaking Deep Chocolate Brownies, you can plan ahead and still have a decadent evening treat. Try the Blackberry Cabernet you’ve got the time and really want to WOW him, then our Trifle makes an incredible impact.
The rest is up to you! How are you going to celebrate?
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January 31, 2011
I just read an interesting statistic. Thanksgiving is the biggest day of the year for food consumption. The second biggest day? If you guessed Christmas, Easter, or the 4th of July guess again – this honor goes to Super Bowl Sunday! Since the majority of the food that will be consumed on game day will be in front of the television, appetizers are a popular choice. Bring on the chips (14,500 tons will be consumed), dip, wings, pizza, meatballs, and veggie platters (remember — it’s all about balance…).
Hosting the Super Bowl festivities at your house? Celebrate in the end zone with Two Sisters Gourmet – whether you are rooting for the AFC or NFC we have your menu plan covered – Touchdown!
AFC Super Bowl Sunday TSG Appetizer Picks
NFC Super Bowl Sunday TSG Appetizer Picks
Morning after the Super Bowl………..
Can’t wait to try our Super Bowl appetizer picks? Easy online shopping is a click away…Go Team!!
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January 20, 2011
I love using my cast iron skillet mostly for its versatility. What other pan can you bake, broil, caramelize, fry, sauté, sear, use on the grill, and serve from. But what makes mine special is its history. A gift given to my Mom from her Mother- in-Law, this cast iron skillet dates back to 1958. Taken on many trips to the state park, it was packed in the car along with the kids, food, road maps, and a Boxer named Grimmick. Bacon and eggs, pancakes, chili, and baked beans were cooked or heated up in the cast iron skillet on a grate over the park fire pits. As the 5th child I missed out on those early family trips, but owning this cast iron skillet with its history makes me smile each time I use it.
My favorite use is searing meat which is easily accomplished using cast iron. The key is a scorching hot pan and not disturbing the meat as it develops a nice caramelized crust (see below). This usually takes only a couple of minutes per side. You can then transfer the skillet into a hot oven to achieve your desired internal temperature. After removing from the oven, it is important to let your meat “rest” for 5 – 10 minutes so the juices redistribute and not all end up on your cutting board (which will result in dry meat). Since using this cooking method, I have not grilled or broiled a steak. It is that good!
Cast iron seared steak
Cast Iron Tips/Fun Facts
- It is important that you season and clean cast iron properly for it to last you a lifetime and keep a nonstick finish. Read Cast Iron Cooking for great tips.
- In their expedition to the Louisiana territory in 1804, Lewis and Clark indicated that their cast iron Dutch oven was one of their most important pieces of equipment.
- George Washington’s mother thought so much of her cast iron cookware she made special note in her will to make sure the right person received it!
- Want a fun recipe to try in your cast iron skillet? Check out this recipe for Iron Skillet Pizza.
What is your favorite dish to cook in a cast iron skillet?
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January 13, 2011
For most people, the start of the New Year kicks off resolutions that often involve diet and exercise. As I wrote about in last week’s blog, the trend this year is towards healthy eating rather than fad diets. One proven healthy eating habit is making sure you do not skip breakfast. As we celebrate National Egg Month I thought it would only be appropriate to highlight one of the most popular breakfast foods known to man.
According to webmd.com, “a traditional breakfast of eggs may be one of the best ways to get your morning protein. While eggs are not always associated with weight loss, they contain some of the highest-quality protein. Also reported are those who eat eggs at breakfast, felt more satisfied and consumed fewer calories throughout the day, compared to those who ate a primarily carbohydrate meal like a bagel.”
When my sisters and I were young, my mom would prepare Eggs in a Nest to lure us to eat our breakfast. This dish is basically an egg served in toast rather than beside it. Simple and fun, it always did the trick.
Eggs in a Nest
From fried to poached, hard boiled to scrambled, there is an egg dish for everyone. For eye opening eggs, try our TSG Wake-Up! Scramble Eggs – breakfast with a kick!
What egg dish starts your day?
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January 6, 2011
As we ring in 2011, healthy eating will be the focus rather than fad diets according to allrecipes.com. As I wrote about in a prior blog, I truly believe it is all about balance – especially when you are a foodie! Below are additional trends from allrecipes.com to watch for in 2011.
Ethnic Foods on the Rise – Want an easy way to try an ethnic dish? Try our new TSG Simmerin’ Sauces – no passport required!
Pies – The New Cupcake – Cupcakes will be taking a backseat to pies for 2011. From sweet to savory, pies will be taking the cake! Try TSG Tropical Coconut Cream Pie –a taste of the tropics to brighten up your winter taste buds.
Pre-made Ingredients – look to Two Sisters Gourmet to stock your pantry with staple favorites.
Entertaining at Home – this trend continues with a casual sit down dinner being a popular choice.
Men in the Kitchen – branching out from the BBQ, men are becoming more comfortable in the kitchen
I wish everyone a safe and happy New Year – See you in 2011!
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December 30, 2010
Over the holidays an easy way to entertain at home is hosting a brunch. This is also a great way to feed your overnight house guests. Below are three easy brunch menus that are real holiday guest pleasers.
After Sunday Service Brunch
Spinach and Feta Scramble
Broiled Tomatoes
Cranberry Coffee Crumble Cake
Coffee, Tea, Mimosas
Late Sleepers Brunch
Puff the Magic Dragon Black Bean and Salsa Omelet
Cheddar Cheese Hash Browns
Pina Colada Parfaits
Espresso, Chai Tea, Sparkling Water
Make Ahead Brunch
Banana Bread French Toast Casserole
Holiday Brunch Casserole
Frozen Fruit Cups
Coffee/Hot Chocolate Bar – offer brewed plain and decaf with flavored creamers, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, marshmallows, crushed peppermints
No matter which brunch you choose, have fun with it! Use Two Sisters Gourmet to complement the start of your day.
Have a blessed happy and healthy Holiday enjoyed with your friends and loved ones.
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December 23, 2010
Your passport to international flavors awaits you with our new Simmerin’ Sauces! Perfect for your slow cooker, these sauces make dinnertime a snap.
A trip to Italy not in the budget? Our Tuscan Country Simmerin’ Sauce brings the fresh flavors of the Tuscan countryside to your table. It will have you saying (or singing!) That’s Amore……… Try the Simply Delicious Chicken Cacciatore or the Hearty Minestrone Soup — perfect comfort food to come home to after a long day.
Or take a culinary trip to the Far East with our Asian Barbeque Simmerin’ Sauce. Hints of soy, sesame, garlic, chili, and ginger combine for true Asian flavor. From Asian-Style Short Ribs to Hot & Sour Chicken Soup, this versatile sauce is a must for your pantry. It can even be used as a dipper for egg or spring rolls!
Your last stop on our International flavor tour is to India with our Mild Madras Curry Simmerin’ Sauce. Tempt your family with Coconut Curry Chicken, Curried Butternut Squash Soup or use over meatballs for a new twist! The mild spices and coconut milk will warm you from within.
And last but not least, two new additions to our Two Sisters Gourmet Sauces and Dressings line up.
Serious Steak and Grilling Sauce will entice the entire family. Use this sauce to make Pecan Crunch Chicken Drumettes, Sassy Barbecue Beans, or Serious Meatball Appetizers. Also excellent as a marinade or brush on grilled meat – its spicy overtones give it a kick!
Rosy Raspberry Basil Vinaigrette will brighten up any salad with its fresh taste. This versatile dressing can also be used as a dipping sauce for bread or over pasta for a light meal (refreshing after the Holidays!) Try Leafy Greens with Orange & Avocado, Luscious Raspberry Lemon Chicken, and Rice & Apple Salad with Tangy Cheese. This is a pantry must.
Can’t wait to try our fabulous new products? Easy online shopping is a click away…Bon Appetit!!
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December 16, 2010
A holiday tradition my co-workers and I look forward to every year is our annual cookie exchange. What a great way to beat the stress of holiday baking! There is nothing better than offering your guests a variety of homemade cookies when you entertain at home (no one has to know you did not make them all — wink wink). The rule for our cookie exchange is to make a dozen for each person participating, and each person makes a different recipe. From cutout, drop, and bar cookies, to brownies and fudge, we have seen some very creative and yummy treats. One of my personal favorites was a couple years ago when a coworker made a cookie bar native to her Canadian roots. The Nanaimo Bar was thought to have originated in its namesake city. Although some say the original recipe might have appeared in the Nanaimo Hospital Cookbook in the late 1950s. All I know is that after one bite I was hooked. I am embarrassed to say that these decadent bars did not make it onto my holiday cookie platter!
Nanaimo Bars
Short on time but still want to participate in your cookie exchange? Try these easy and delicious Two Sisters Gourmet recipes.
What is your favorite holiday cookie?
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December 9, 2010
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Who says you have to be in New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras, the French word for Fat Tuesday, is the last day of the Carnival season and falls the day before Ash Wednesday (and always 46 days before Easter). Why not celebrate this upcoming Fat Tuesday with some classic Mardi Gras recipes. Invite your friends, hand out Mardi Gras masks and beads and bring a little of the Big Easy to your block!
