Sweet Potato Pie

 The Best Sweet Potato Pie

During the holidays, many of us enjoy traditional desserts. One of my family's favorite desserts is sweet potato pie. For over ten years, I've been making the same recipe. It's delicious and incredibly easy to make. Because I am a traditional cook, I prefer to make pie crust. Store-bought pie crusts, on the other hand, have come a long way, according to various sources. One of the reasons I think my sweet potato pie is so delicious is that I bake the potatoes as opposed to using boiled or canned sweet potatoes. 

Whatever crust you use, this recipe will not disappoint. It could end up in one of your favorite recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups baked sweet potatoes 
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extra
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 stick of unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 3 eggs

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl with an electric mixer until well blended.
3. Pour the mixture into an unbaked pie shell.  
4. Bake at 450 degrees F. for 15 minutes, then decrease the temperature to 350 degrees F. and bake for 35 additional minutes.

Twist:  Bake the potatoes and use evaporated milk

Baked Sweet Potato

So delicious, so healthy; a baked sweet potato!

In the past, right before the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, sweet potatoes generally go on sale.  With food prices at an all-time high, don't miss out on them during upcoming specials.  

It has been my practice to bake and freeze some so that we can enjoy some sweet potato pies after the holidays.  You may also consider freezing the pie filling if you prefer.

Salmon Patties



Ever wish that you had more time to spend in the kitchen? Well just in case you don't, try preparing delicious salmon patties for dinner in just 30 minutes. 

Sakowitz Shrimp Salad

This recipe is one that I clipped from the Houston Post back in the 80s.  It was very popular and is still an all-time favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds of cooked shrimp
• 3/4 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup mayonnaise 
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt to taste

Remoulade Sauce

• 1 hard cooked egg
• 2 shallots, finely chopped 
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cooked spinach, finely chopped and well drained
• 2 cups mayonnaise 
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon creole mustard 
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/3 ounces anchovy paste
• Dash of liquid hot pepper sauce

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, all ingredients well
2. Stir in remoulade sauce 
3. Toss well, serve shrimp of iceberg lettuce

My Air Fryer

I received a very lovely Air Fryer from one of my sons for my birthday several months ago.  It is stainless steel and matches the other appliances in my kitchen.  However, I'm an old fashion cook, and to be honest, I've been a little afraid to use it.  I'm ashamed that I received it in February, and have only used it twice.  

Tomato Basil Soup

There’s nothing like Tomato Basil Soup. I wasn’t sure how the soup would come out since I didn’t use fresh tomatoes, but it was fantastic.

Tuna Lollipops

Psst. . . . Before you stop grilling outdoors, try these tuna lollipops!

Houston ISD Baking Powder Biscuits

Many years ago, when I worked for Houston Independent School District (HISD), I enjoyed the biscuits that they served in the cafeteria lunch line.  I don't eat a lot of bread and rarely biscuits, but so many of the teachers and employees were bragging about them until one day I decided to give them a try. 

My KitchenAid

I have really enjoyed my KitchenAid over the years. I purchased it over 20 years ago.  It's a workhorse,  a powerhouse, a companion, and definitely an asset that I could not be without in my kitchen. 

Noodle Kitchen Hack For Knives

Are your knives dull and in need of professional service?  I purchased some knives several years ago with a lifetime warranty.  I had not taken the time to use the service until last week.  The instructions that were given by the manufacturer suggested wrapping the blade in material from an empty cereal box, which I did not have.  I did of course have a couple of noodles in my garage and decided that they would be useful.

Tartar Sauce

You don't need to purchase Tartar Sauce from the grocery store.  With this recipe, you'll find that it's quite easy to make your own. 

Chicken & Sausage Gumbo

 

Make a dry roux

Ingredients for roux:

Add 2 cups A/P flour to a cast-iron skillet

Cook over medium-low heat 

Stirring constantly until it turns brown

(about 45 minutes to an hour)

Mustard Up Catfish

Over ten years ago my brother-in-law told me to try coating my fish with mustard; needless to say, it was a big hit.  I've been using this method ever since.   Even if you don't fry your fish, you may coat fish with mustard; grill it, or cook in an air fryer.  

Mustard Up Catfish Video

International Women's Day

 

Cook's Illustrated - Best Buttermilk Pancakes

 

You don't need to travel to IHop for delicious light, fluffy pancakes, you can prepare them at home.  I found this recipe in my collection of recipes. It's great just the way it is, however, my only twist is just a little vanilla extract.  

Louisiana Yam Cake

Did I tell I tell you that this is my favorite cake, well it is?  I bake this cake several times during the year.  I baked it for over twenty years now, and it's never failed me. 

Turkey Spaghetti

Turkey Spaghetti is one of my favorites.  When I make spaghetti, on most occasions, we will have enough leftovers for the next day.  Once you look at the ingredients, you might feel that it's too many ingredients and too much trouble; well you should try it.  The results may change your might.  

Give it a try and let me know what you think.  

Short Ribs

These short ribs can be cooked in a cast-iron Dutch oven or a clay baker.  You can't lose, both provide moisture and tenderizers; the results are superb.  If you are in the market for a clay baker, definitely purchased one with a glazed bottom for easy clean-up.  One of the bakers that I have, and still use regularly, was purchased in the 90s; it still produces the same outstanding, mouth-watering results.

These little ribs are a little costly but have a lot of meat on them and are very flavorful!

Ritz Fish

This is a recipe that I collected from the Houston Chronicle many years ago.  I don't know who to credit for this recipe because only the recipe was clipped from the newspaper.  I've tried it with cod and haddock, both turned out good; unfortunately, I didn't take pictures.  Since this recipe is an old one, you probably won't be able to find Ritz buttered flavor crackers.  I've used the Ritz Garlic Butter instead.  

Pecan-Crusted Fish

This fish is very light and not too spicy. Tilapia is a fish that I prepare often; and one that my family enjoys. 

The rice that I served with it is also on this site.

 

May You and Your Family Have a Healthy and Prosperous New Year!