Recipes Tagged: Comfort Food
Displaying all recipes that include the tag: Comfort Food.
| Title ↕ | Description ↕ | Tags ↕ | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hearty Cheeseburger Soup | A comforting and rich cheeseburger-inspired soup with ground beef... | soup, comfort food, cheese | {"title":"Hearty Cheeseburger Soup","description":"A comforting and rich cheeseburger-inspired soup with ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy cheese base. Perfect for chilly days!","full_ingredient_list":["1 pound ground beef","3\/4 cup chopped onion","3\/4 cup shredded carrots","3\/4 cup diced celery","1 teaspoon dried basil","1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes","4 tablespoons butter","3 cups chicken broth","4 cups peeled and diced potatoes","1\/4 cup all-purpose flour","2 cups Velveeta cheese or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese","1 1\/2 cups milk","3\/4 teaspoon salt","1\/4 to 1\/2 teaspoon pepper","1\/4 cup sour cream"],"components":[{"name":"Soup Base","ingredients":[{"name":"ground beef","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["ground turkey","ground chicken"]},{"name":"chopped onion","quantity":"3\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["shallots"]},{"name":"shredded carrots","quantity":"3\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["diced bell peppers"]},{"name":"diced celery","quantity":"3\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["diced zucchini"]},{"name":"dried basil","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["fresh basil"]},{"name":"dried parsley flakes","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["fresh parsley"]},{"name":"butter","quantity":"4 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["margarine"]},{"name":"chicken broth","quantity":"3 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["beef broth"]},{"name":"peeled and diced potatoes","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["sweet potatoes"]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["cornstarch"]},{"name":"Velveeta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"Velveeta should be cubed","substitutions":["Colby jack cheese"]},{"name":"milk","quantity":"1 1\/2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["half-and-half","heavy cream"]},{"name":"sour cream","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["cream cheese"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"3\/4 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"1\/4 to 1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["3-quart saucepan","small skillet","wooden spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Brown the ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan. Drain and set aside.","tips":"Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease."},{"step_number":2,"description":"In the same saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of butter, onion, carrots, parsley flakes, basil, and celery. Saut\u00e9 until tender.","tips":"Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the vegetables."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add broth, potatoes, and the cooked beef to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are tender.","tips":"Avoid over-boiling to keep potatoes firm."},{"step_number":4,"description":"In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, stir in the flour, and cook for 3-5 minutes until bubbly. Add this mixture to the soup and bring to a boil, cooking and stirring for 2 minutes before reducing heat to low.","tips":"Ensure there are no lumps in the flour mixture for a smooth soup base."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Blend in cheese, milk, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese melts. Remove from heat and mix in the sour cream.","tips":"Remove from heat before adding sour cream to prevent curdling."}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"45 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["soup","comfort food","cheese"],"notes":"This soup is great for leftovers and can be customized with various toppings or additional spices."} |
| Tender Braised Beef Short Ribs | A handed-down family recipe for braised beef short ribs, cooked t... | beef, comfort food, braised, main course | {"title":"Tender Braised Beef Short Ribs","description":"A handed-down family recipe for braised beef short ribs, cooked to perfect tenderness in a rich blend of beer and beef broth.","prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"2 hours 15 minutes","total_time":"2 hours 30 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["beef","comfort food","braised","main course"],"notes":"You can braise the beef in any preferred liquid. If your ribs are fatty, skim off fat before serving.","components":[{"name":"Braised Beef Short Ribs","ingredients":[{"name":"beef short ribs","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"for coating","substitutions":[]},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"butter","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"onion","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"1 clove","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"stout beer","quantity":"1 can (12 fluid ounces)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["beef broth"]},{"name":"beef stock","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground black pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Dutch oven or large skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Season the ribs with salt and pepper. Coat in flour and shake off excess.","tips":"Make sure to coat thoroughly for better browning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Heat olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ribs and brown for about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.","tips":"Ensure the pot is hot before adding ribs to get a good sear."},{"step_number":3,"description":"In the same pot, add onion and garlic; cook until onion is tender, about 5 minutes. Return the ribs to the pot.","tips":"Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Pour in stout beer, scraping the bottom to release browned bits. Add beef stock.","tips":"These bits add depth to the sauce."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Cover and simmer over low heat for about 2 hours or until ribs are tender.","tips":"Check occasionally to ensure liquid is not evaporating too quickly."}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["1 pound beef short ribs","2 tablespoons all-purpose flour","1 tablespoon olive oil","1 tablespoon butter","1 onion, sliced","1 clove garlic","1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle stout beer","1 cup beef stock","1 teaspoon salt","\u00bd teaspoon ground black pepper"]} |
| Ultimate Smash Burger Recipe | This recipe guides you through making delicious Ultimate Smash Bu... | main course, burger, American, beef, onion, cheese, griddle, summer, quick, comfort food, spicy, savory, handheld, family friendly | {"title":"Ultimate Smash Burger Recipe","description":"This recipe guides you through making delicious Ultimate Smash Burgers, a take on the Oklahoma fried onion burger, combined with innovative flavors like thinly shaved jalapenos. Experience a juicy double patty burger with crispy edges, melted American cheese, and savory bacon.","short_description":"Discover how to make juicy Ultimate Smash Burgers with a crispy crust, melted American cheese, and a savory combination of toppings.","full_ingredient_list":["2 lbs. 80\/20 ground beef","1 large white onion, shaved","2 medium jalapenos, shaved","12 slices of American cheese","1 lb bacon, cooked","1 package soft burger buns, toasted","Kosher salt"],"components":[{"name":"Burger Patties","ingredients":[{"name":"80\/20 Ground Beef","quantity":"2 lbs.","preparation_notes":"Roll into 2.5 oz balls (approximately \u2153 cup each)","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Kosher Salt","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Kitchen scale","Parchment paper"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Using a kitchen scale, portion ground beef into 2.5 oz balls. Cover and reserve until ready to cook.","tips":"Use a \u2153 cup measuring cup if you don not have a scale."}]},{"name":"Toppings","ingredients":[{"name":"Large White Onion","quantity":"1, shaved","preparation_notes":"Slice as thin as possible","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Medium Jalapenos","quantity":"2, shaved","preparation_notes":"Slice as thin as possible","substitutions":[]},{"name":"American Cheese","quantity":"12 slices","preparation_notes":"Preferably sliced from the deli","substitutions":["Cheddar cheese"]},{"name":"Bacon","quantity":"1 lb","preparation_notes":"Cook to your preference and cut in half","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Mandolin slicer (optional)"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Using a mandolin slicer, slice white onion and jalapenos as thin as possible. Cover and reserve until ready to cook.","tips":"Slice by hand if a mandolin is unavailable."}]},{"name":"Assembling Burger","ingredients":[{"name":"Soft Burger Buns","quantity":"1 package","preparation_notes":"Toasted with butter","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Cast iron skillet or griddle","Heavy spatula"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat your cast iron pan or griddle to at least 425\u00b0F. Add balls of ground beef to the griddle, season with kosher salt, and flatten with parchment paper using a spatula.","tips":"Press outer edges flat for crispy edges. Remove paper after smashing."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Cover beef balls with shaved onions and jalapenos. Cook until edges are no longer pink and onions caramelize slightly.","tips":"Cook about 1-2 minutes."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Flip patties, immediately cover with American cheese, and add cooked bacon to one patty. Steam buns by placing top bun half on the patty.","tips":"Add any type of sauce to top of bottom bun before assembly (ketchup, mustard, thousand island)."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Assemble burger by stacking the top patty and bun over the bottom bun with sauce and bacon. Serve while hot.","tips":"Ensure burgers remain juicy by not overcooking."}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"3 minutes","total_time":"18 minutes","servings":"6 double burgers","tags":["main course","burger","American","beef","onion","cheese","griddle","summer","quick","comfort food","spicy","savory","handheld","family friendly"],"notes":"Cooking the burgers inside can produce smoke; use ventilation or consider outdoor cooking. Adjust spice level by omitting jalapenos.","background":"Combining regional influences with modern flair, the Ultimate Smash Burger riffs on Oklahoma-style fried onion burgers, enhancing the experience with additional flavors and textures.","nutrition":{"calories":"720","protein":"42g","fat":"50g","carbohydrates":"23g","fiber":"2g","sugar":"5g"},"serving_suggestions":"Pair with crispy oven-roasted potatoes or a side of crunchy pepper slaw for full meal enjoyment.","storage":"Best served immediately. Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.","dietary_info":["contains dairy","contains gluten","contains pork"],"cooking_tips":["Ensure griddle is hot enough by checking with an infrared thermometer or observing water droplets.","Press burgers firmly but evenly to avoid breaking the patties."],"variations":["Swap jalapenos for saut\u00e9ed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.","Use different cheese types like cheddar or pepper jack."],"ingredient_spotlight":"The thinly shaved onions are crucial for flavoring and creating a caramelized crust on the patty, contributing to the distinct taste of the burger.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":8,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"American","seasonality":"Summer","sustainability_score":{"score":65,"details":"Using grass-fed beef can improve sustainability; thinly sliced onions and jalapenos add flavor with environmentally friendly vegetables."},"occasion":"casual dining","skill_level":"intermediate","cost_estimate":25,"recommended_pairings":["crispy potatoes","macaroni and cheese","pepper slaw"]} |
| Juicy Meatball Submarine Sandwiches | Tender meatballs in marinara sauce, nestled in garlicky hoagie ro... | Dinner, Kid Friendly, Comfort Food | {"title":"Juicy Meatball Submarine Sandwiches","description":"Tender meatballs in marinara sauce, nestled in garlicky hoagie rolls, topped with mozzarella, and broiled to perfection.","full_ingredient_list":["1 pound ground beef","1\/2 pound mild Italian sausage","1\/3 cup Italian parsley","4 garlic cloves","1\/2 cup Italian style bread crumbs","1 egg","3\/4 cup parmesan cheese","1 teaspoon salt","1 teaspoon pepper","3 cups marinara sauce","6 hoagie rolls","4 tablespoons olive oil","2 teaspoons garlic powder","8 ounces mozzarella cheese"],"components":[{"name":"Meatballs","ingredients":[{"name":"ground beef","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"80\/20 blend","substitutions":[]},{"name":"mild Italian sausage","quantity":"1\/2 pound","preparation_notes":"ground or links with casing removed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Italian parsley","quantity":"1\/3 cup","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"4 cloves","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Italian style bread crumbs","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"egg","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"parmesan cheese","quantity":"3\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"freshly grated","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"freshly ground","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large mixing bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place ground beef, Italian sausage, parsley, garlic, bread crumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.","tips":"Use a light hand to mix the ingredients to avoid overworking."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Combine ingredients by hand until well mixed. Roll into 24 meatballs, about 2 tablespoons each.","tips":"Get family involved in rolling the meatballs."}]},{"name":"Cooking Meatballs","ingredients":[{"name":"marinara sauce","quantity":"3 cups","preparation_notes":"store bought or homemade","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large saucepan"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Add the meatballs to a large saucepan with marinara sauce. Bring to a low simmer.","tips":"Cover to maintain moisture."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Simmer covered for 10 minutes, then uncover and cook for another 10 minutes.","tips":"Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking."}]},{"name":"Sandwich Assembly","ingredients":[{"name":"hoagie rolls","quantity":"6","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"4 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic powder","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"mozzarella cheese","quantity":"8 ounces","preparation_notes":"shredded","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["9x13 baking dish"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Brush the inside of hoagie rolls with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.","tips":"This adds a delicious flavor when toasted."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Preheat broiler. Arrange rolls in a 9x13 baking dish, add 4 meatballs to each, and top with mozzarella cheese.","tips":"Keep an eye on the broiler to prevent burning."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Broil until the cheese is just melted and bubbly.","tips":"Serve immediately for best results."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"25 minutes","total_time":"35 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["Dinner","Kid Friendly","Comfort Food"],"notes":"Meatballs can be frozen either raw or pre-cooked for later use. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months."} |
| Savory Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi | Create a restaurant-quality dish at home with this simple yet lux... | pasta, main dish, quick, comfort food, vegetarian option, Italian, American fusion, simple ingredients, weeknight meal, easy | {"title":"Savory Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi","description":"Create a restaurant-quality dish at home with this simple yet luxurious recipe for Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi. Soft gnocchi is pan-fried to a golden crisp and coated in nutty browned butter with fragrant sage, then finished with Parmesan cheese.","short_description":"Gnocchi meets elegance in this brown butter and sage recipe.","full_ingredient_list":["16 ounces gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)","4 tablespoons butter","2-3 sprigs fresh sage","1 tablespoon olive oil","\u00bc cup shredded Parmesan cheese","salt","black pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi","ingredients":[{"name":"gnocchi","quantity":"16 ounces","preparation_notes":"Either homemade or store-bought","substitutions":[]},{"name":"butter","quantity":"4 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"Brown in pan","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh sage","quantity":"2-3 sprigs","preparation_notes":"Cook with butter","substitutions":["1\/2 teaspoon dried sage"]},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Parmesan cheese","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"Shredded","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large pan","spatula","pot for boiling"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Boil the gnocchi in salted water according to package or recipe directions. Drain well.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"In a large pan over medium-high heat, add the butter and sage leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter is lightly browned and emits a nutty aroma, about 2 minutes.","tips":"Watch the butter closely to prevent burning."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Remove the browned butter and sage from the pan and set aside.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add olive oil to the same pan over medium-high heat. Add the drained gnocchi and cook without stirring until they are golden on one side, about 5-6 minutes.","tips":"Avoid stirring to help the gnocchi form a crust."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Add the browned butter and sage back to the pan with the gnocchi. Mix well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.","tips":"Ensure the gnocchi is well-coated with the butter and sage."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.","tips":"Optional: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh parsley for a fresh touch."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"15 minutes","total_time":"25 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["pasta","main dish","quick","comfort food","vegetarian option","Italian","American fusion","simple ingredients","weeknight meal","easy"],"notes":"The browned butter must be monitored closely as it can quickly shift from brown to burnt. Fresh sage is recommended for the best flavor, and whole leaves can be consumed with the gnocchi. Adjust seasoning to your preference.","background":"Gnocchi, traditionally Italian, is an elegant dumpling made from potatoes and flour. This dish enhances it with browned butter and sage, a classic Italian combination that highlights the simple yet delightful flavors.","nutrition":{"calories":"309","protein":"7g","fat":"14g","carbohydrates":"40g","fiber":"3g","sugar":"1g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. Consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.","storage":"Store cooked gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.","dietary_info":["vegetarian","contains dairy"],"cooking_tips":["Boil gnocchi just before saut\u00e9ing to maintain texture.","Use a large enough pan to allow gnocchi to cook evenly without overcrowding."],"variations":["Add a sprinkle of lemon zest or parsley for an extra fresh taste.","Include garlic or shallots when browning the butter for added depth."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Sage enhances the nutty flavor of browned butter, elevating the simple gnocchi to a gourmet dish.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":8,"sour":1,"bitter":0,"umami":6},"geographic_region":"American adaptation of an Italian classic","seasonality":"Autumn","sustainability_score":{"score":75,"details":"Most ingredients are widely available and have low environmental impact. Consider purchasing local or organic produce when possible."},"occasion":"weeknight dinner","skill_level":"beginner","cost_estimate":12,"recommended_pairings":["Light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio","Lemon-infused iced tea","Sparkling water with lemon"]} |
| Classic Salisbury Steak with Homemade Gravy | A deliciously improved take on the classic Salisbury steak, featu... | American, Beef, Family Dinner, Comfort Food, Quick Meal | {"title":"Classic Salisbury Steak with Homemade Gravy","description":"A deliciously improved take on the classic Salisbury steak, featuring seasoned ground beef patties in rich mushroom gravy. This comforting dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a family meal.","prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"20 minutes","total_time":"30 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["American","Beef","Family Dinner","Comfort Food","Quick Meal"],"components":[{"name":"Steaks","ingredients":[{"name":"lean ground beef","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["ground turkey"]},{"name":"panko breadcrumbs","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["regular breadcrumbs"]},{"name":"large egg","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"beaten","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ketchup","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Dijon mustard","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["regular mustard"]},{"name":"dried oregano","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"extra-virgin olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"for the skillet","substitutions":["vegetable oil"]},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["table salt"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large bowl","large nonstick skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, mustard, oregano, and salt until combined.","tips":"Avoid overmixing to prevent tough patties."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Shape the mixture into 4 equal oval patties, about 3\/4-inch thick.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Warm olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook about 3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate.","tips":"Reduce heat if patties are browning too quickly."}]},{"name":"Gravy","ingredients":[{"name":"unsalted butter","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"flour","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["gluten-free flour"]},{"name":"beef stock","quantity":"1 1\/2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["chicken stock"]},{"name":"Worcestershire sauce","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["soy sauce"]},{"name":"onion powder","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ketchup","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"sliced cremini mushrooms","quantity":"6 ounces","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["button mushrooms"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["whisk"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add butter to the pan drippings. Once melted, whisk in the flour until no lumps remain.","tips":"Whisk continuously to prevent burning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Lower heat to medium-low and pour in the beef stock, whisking thoroughly. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder into the mixture.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add mushrooms and simmer for about 5 minutes until the gravy thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Return the patties to the skillet, cover them with gravy, and cook for another 10 minutes or until fully cooked through (internal temperature of 160F).","tips":"Let patties simmer gently to soak up flavors."}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["1 pound lean ground beef","1\/4 cup panko breadcrumbs","1 large egg, beaten","2 teaspoons ketchup","1 teaspoon Dijon mustard","1\/2 teaspoon dried oregano","1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil","2 tablespoons unsalted butter","2 tablespoons flour","1 1\/2 cups beef stock","1 tablespoon ketchup","1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce","1\/2 teaspoon onion powder","6 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms","salt and pepper"],"notes":"This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. You can vary the meat or omit mushrooms to fit your preferences."} |
| Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup | A cozy and comforting broccoli cheddar soup that is rich, creamy,... | comfort food, soup, vegetarian | {"title":"Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup","description":"A cozy and comforting broccoli cheddar soup that is rich, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness. Perfect for a chilly day meal.","prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"25 minutes","total_time":"35 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["comfort food","soup","vegetarian"],"notes":"For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch. Use freshly shredded cheese for best results.","components":[{"name":"Broccoli Cheddar Soup","ingredients":[{"name":"unsalted butter","quantity":"4 tablespoons","preparation_notes":null,"substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onion","quantity":"1 medium","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":null,"substitutions":["cornstarch"]},{"name":"whole milk or unsweetened almond milk","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":null,"substitutions":["heavy cream"]},{"name":"vegetable broth","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":null,"substitutions":[]},{"name":"broccoli florets","quantity":"3 cups","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":["broccolini"]},{"name":"carrot","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"julienned or finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Dijon mustard","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":null,"substitutions":[]},{"name":"sharp cheddar cheese","quantity":"8 ounces (about 2 heaping cups)","preparation_notes":"shredded","substitutions":[]},{"name":"sea salt","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":null,"substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":null,"substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large pot or Dutch oven","whisk","grater"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Cook while stirring for about 5 minutes until the onion is softened.","tips":null},{"step_number":2,"description":"Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Then sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the flour turns golden.","tips":null},{"step_number":3,"description":"Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to combine. Make sure to distribute the flour and butter evenly in the liquid.","tips":"Whisk continuously to prevent lumps."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add the vegetable broth, chopped broccoli, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.","tips":null},{"step_number":5,"description":"Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring after each addition until all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.","tips":"Keep the heat low to ensure the cheese melts smoothly."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Season to taste with additional sea salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot with croutons or crusty bread if desired.","tips":null}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["4 tablespoons unsalted butter","1 medium yellow onion, chopped","3 garlic cloves, chopped","1\/4 cup all-purpose flour","2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk","2 cups vegetable broth","3 cups chopped broccoli florets","1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped","1\/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard","8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)","1\/2 teaspoon sea salt","Freshly ground black pepper","Homemade croutons, for serving, optional"]} |
| Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew | A comforting stew with tender beef simmered with potatoes, onions... | hearty, comfort food, main course, soup, American | {"title":"Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew","description":"A comforting stew with tender beef simmered with potatoes, onions, celery, peas, and carrots in a rich beef broth.","prep_time":"20 minutes","cook_time":"1 hour 10 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 30 minutes","servings":"8 servings","tags":["hearty","comfort food","main course","soup","American"],"notes":"Beef stew meat is often culled from the ends of various beef cuts. If the beef isn't tender after 1 hour, cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender.","components":[{"name":"Hearty Beef Stew","ingredients":[{"name":"stewing beef","quantity":"2 pounds","preparation_notes":"trimmed and cubed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"onion","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"beef broth","quantity":"6 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"red wine","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"optional","substitutions":[]},{"name":"potatoes","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"peeled and cubed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"carrots","quantity":"4","preparation_notes":"cut into 1 inch pieces","substitutions":[]},{"name":"celery","quantity":"4 ribs","preparation_notes":"cut into 1 inch pieces","substitutions":[]},{"name":"tomato paste","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried rosemary","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"or 1 sprig fresh","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cornstarch","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"or as needed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"water","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"or as needed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"peas","quantity":"3\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic powder","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large Dutch oven or pot"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss beef in flour mixture.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot. Cook the beef and onions until browned.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add beef broth and red wine, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Stir in potatoes, carrots, celery, tomato paste, and rosemary. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.","tips":"If beef is not tender after the initial simmer, continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Mix equal parts cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the boiling stew until desired thickness is achieved.","tips":"Allow the stew to boil for 1-2 minutes to eliminate starchy flavor from the slurry."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Stir in peas and simmer for 5-10 minutes before serving. Add salt and pepper to taste.","tips":"Peas cook quickly, so they are added at the end to retain their bright green color."}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["2 pounds stewing beef","3 tablespoons all-purpose flour","3 tablespoons olive oil","1 onion","6 cups beef broth","1\/2 cup red wine","1 pound potatoes","4 carrots","4 ribs celery","3 tablespoons tomato paste","1 teaspoon dried rosemary","2 tablespoons cornstarch","2 tablespoons water","3\/4 cup peas","1\/2 teaspoon garlic powder","1\/2 teaspoon salt","1\/2 teaspoon black pepper"]} |
| Easy Ham and Cheese Croissants | Flaky croissants filled with sliced ham and melted cheese, baked ... | easy, quick, sandwich, ham, cheese, croissant, American, lunch, comfort food, baked, kid-friendly | {"title":"Easy Ham and Cheese Croissants","description":"Flaky croissants filled with sliced ham and melted cheese, baked until warm and toasty.","short_description":"A simple and delicious ham and cheese croissant recipe.","full_ingredient_list":["4 croissants","4 slices cooked sliced ham","4 slices cheese (Swiss, Cheddar, or Havarti)"],"components":[{"name":"Ham and Cheese Croissant","ingredients":[{"name":"croissants","quantity":"4","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cooked sliced ham","quantity":"4 slices","preparation_notes":"warm in microwave","substitutions":["deli ham"]},{"name":"cheese (Swiss, Cheddar, or Havarti)","quantity":"4 slices","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["oven","microwave"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Warm the ham in the microwave.","tips":"Warming the ham slightly helps it integrate better with the hot croissant."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Slice the croissants horizontally.","tips":"Use a sharp knife to keep the croissants from tearing."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Place a slice of warm ham and a slice of cheese in each croissant.","tips":"Ensure the cheese is evenly placed for consistent melting."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croissants are flaky.","tips":"Watch closely to prevent over-browning."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"5 minutes","total_time":"10 minutes","servings":"4 sandwiches","tags":["easy","quick","sandwich","ham","cheese","croissant","American","lunch","comfort food","baked","kid-friendly"],"notes":"These can be made with store-bought croissants to save time or homemade for a personal touch.","background":"This recipe is reminiscent of a classic comfort food often enjoyed during childhood.","nutrition":{"calories":"414","protein":"17g","fat":"26g","carbohydrates":"27g","fiber":"1g","sugar":"7g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve warm, possibly with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad.","storage":"Best if eaten fresh. If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat before serving.","dietary_info":["contains gluten","contains dairy"],"ingredient_spotlight":"The croissant is the star, providing a buttery and flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the savory ham and melted cheese.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":7,"sour":1,"bitter":1,"umami":6},"geographic_region":"American","seasonality":"All year","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["fresh fruit","light salad"]} |
| Japanese Sukiyaki Hot Pot | Sukiyaki is a traditional Japanese hot pot meal featuring thinly ... | Japanese, Hot Pot, Beef, One Pot Meal, Comfort Food, Traditional, Easy | {"title":"Japanese Sukiyaki Hot Pot","description":"Sukiyaki is a traditional Japanese hot pot meal featuring thinly sliced beef, tofu, vegetables, and noodles simmered in a savory-sweet broth. It is often enjoyed as a communal dish cooked directly at the dining table.","short_description":"A cozy Japanese hot pot dish with beef and vegetables.","full_ingredient_list":["2 tablespoons sake","1\/4 cup mirin","1 tablespoon brown sugar","1\/4 cup soy sauce","1\/2 block firm tofu (1cm thick slices)","5 dried shiitake mushrooms (rehydrated)","1 package enoki mushrooms (trimmed and rinsed)","2 cups napa cabbage (2-inch pieces)","2 cups tong ho (chrysanthemum greens, washed)","2 scallions (white and green parts separated)","1 bundle dried mung bean vermicelli noodles","1 tablespoon vegetable oil","12 ounces thinly sliced fatty beef","2 cups dashi stock","2 cups steamed rice","2 egg yolks (pasteurized, optional)","Salt","Pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Sukiyaki Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"sake","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"mirin","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"brown sugar","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"soy sauce","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["saucepan"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sake, mirin, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, making sure all the sugar is dissolved. Turn off the heat and transfer to a bowl.","tips":"Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before turning off the heat."}]},{"name":"Sukiyaki","ingredients":[{"name":"firm tofu","quantity":"1\/2 block","preparation_notes":"sliced into 1cm thick slices","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried shiitake mushrooms","quantity":"5","preparation_notes":"rehydrated","substitutions":[]},{"name":"enoki mushrooms","quantity":"1 package","preparation_notes":"ends trimmed and rinsed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"napa cabbage","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"cut into 2-inch pieces","substitutions":[]},{"name":"tong ho (chrysanthemum greens)","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"washed","substitutions":["bok choy","spinach"]},{"name":"scallions","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"white and green parts separated","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried mung bean vermicelli noodles","quantity":"1 bundle","preparation_notes":"soaked in water for 10 minutes","substitutions":["shirataki noodles","udon noodles"]},{"name":"vegetable oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"thinly sliced fatty beef","quantity":"12 ounces","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dashi stock","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"mushroom soaking liquid or chicken stock","substitutions":[]},{"name":"steamed rice","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"egg yolks","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"pasteurized, optional","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["portable electric or gas cooktop","pan","knife","bowl","plate"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan. Fry the white parts of the scallions for 2 minutes.","tips":"Ensure the oil is hot before adding scallions to get a good sear."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add the sliced beef to the pan with the scallions and sear for 10 seconds. Add a drizzle of your sukiyaki sauce and fry until just browned but still pink. Remove and set aside.","tips":"Do not overcook the beef to maintain tenderness."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add the rest of your sukiyaki sauce and the dashi stock to the pot. Bring to a boil.","tips":"Stir well to combine the sauce and stock evenly."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add the tofu, mushrooms, napa cabbage, tong ho, and drained vermicelli noodles in sections. Cover and bring to a boil, then simmer for 5-7 minutes until the ingredients are cooked through.","tips":"Layer the ingredients neatly for an appealing presentation when the lid is removed."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Remove the cover, add the beef back to the pot, and sprinkle with the chopped green parts of the scallions. Serve with steamed rice and optional egg yolk for dipping.","tips":"Mix well before serving to distribute flavors evenly."}]}],"prep_time":"20 minutes","cook_time":"20 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"3","tags":["Japanese","Hot Pot","Beef","One Pot Meal","Comfort Food","Traditional","Easy"],"notes":"Ensure all ingredients are prepared and ready before starting to cook as the process can be quick once commenced.","background":"The Sukiyaki hot pot is a beloved dish in Japan often enjoyed in the colder months. It is typically cooked and eaten at the table, making it a social and interactive meal experience.","nutrition":{"calories":"751 kcal","protein":"37 g","fat":"35 g","carbohydrates":"68 g","fiber":"3 g","sugar":"11 g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables to enhance the flavors.","storage":"Best consumed fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.","dietary_info":["Contains soy","Contains gluten","Contains alcohol","Contains egg (optional)"],"cooking_tips":["Substitute tofu with extra vegetables for a vegan option.","Use chicken or vegetable broth if dashi is unavailable."],"variations":["Try adding different mushrooms like shimeji or maitake for a varied flavor.","Use chicken or pork as a substitute for beef."],"ingredient_spotlight":"The thinly sliced fatty beef is crucial, providing richness and depth to the sukiyaki broth.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":5,"savory":7,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":8},"geographic_region":"Japan","seasonality":"Winter","sustainability_score":{"score":80,"details":"Opting for local ingredients and sustainably sourced beef improves the score."},"occasion":"Family Dinner","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":30,"recommended_pairings":["Green tea","Sake"]} |
| Japanese Winter Oden Stew | Oden is a traditional Japanese stew, perfect for warming up durin... | Japanese, Soup, Stew, Winter, Comfort Food, Family, Traditional, Dashi based | {"title":"Japanese Winter Oden Stew","description":"Oden is a traditional Japanese stew, perfect for warming up during the cold winter months. It features a variety of fish cakes simmered in a soy sauce-based dashi broth. Often served in a donabe clay pot, it is an excellent dish for sharing with friends and family.","short_description":"A comforting Japanese stew with fish cakes for cold weather.","full_ingredient_list":["3-4 cups dashi stock","2 tablespoons soy sauce","1 tablespoon mirin","1 teaspoon sugar","5-6 assorted fish cakes (such as chikuwa, gobo-maki)","1 block of firm tofu","4 hard boiled eggs","1 daikon radish","1 konjac block","Salt","Pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Stew Base","ingredients":[{"name":"dashi stock","quantity":"3-4 cups","preparation_notes":"homemade or store-bought","substitutions":["chicken stock"]},{"name":"soy sauce","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["tamari"]},{"name":"mirin","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["sake with sugar"]},{"name":"sugar","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["honey"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["donabe clay pot","knife","cutting board","cooking pot"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in the pot.","tips":"Adjust the seasoning to taste."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.","tips":"Ensure it does not boil over."}]},{"name":"Ingredients Addition","ingredients":[{"name":"assorted fish cakes","quantity":"5-6 pieces","preparation_notes":"sliced as needed","substitutions":["surimi"]},{"name":"firm tofu","quantity":"1 block","preparation_notes":"cut into cubes","substitutions":["silken tofu"]},{"name":"hard boiled eggs","quantity":"4","preparation_notes":"peeled","substitutions":[]},{"name":"daikon radish","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"peeled and sliced thickly","substitutions":["turnip"]},{"name":"konjac block","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"cut into strips","substitutions":["shirataki noodles"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["knife","cutting board","cooking pot"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Add fish cakes, tofu, eggs, daikon, and konjac to the simmering pot.","tips":"Add each ingredient gradually."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Simmer everything until flavors meld, for 1-3 hours.","tips":"Taste to ensure flavors have infused."}]},{"name":"Serving","ingredients":[],"tools_and_equipment":["serving bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Serve oden in a heated donabe or large serving bowl.","tips":"Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste before serving."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"2-3 hours","total_time":"3 hours","servings":"4-6 servings","tags":["Japanese","Soup","Stew","Winter","Comfort Food","Family","Traditional","Dashi based"],"notes":"Oden is flexible and can include a variety of ingredients based on preference.","background":"Oden is a popular and traditional Japanese dish especially enjoyed during the cold months. It is often sold at convenience stores in Japan and is known for its hearty and warming qualities.","nutrition":{"calories":"350","protein":"25g","fat":"15g","carbohydrates":"30g","fiber":"5g","sugar":"6g"},"serving_suggestions":"Pair with a small bowl of rice or green tea.","storage":"Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently.","dietary_info":["Contains soy","Gluten-free if using tamari"],"cooking_tips":["Use a variety of fish cakes for more depth of flavor."],"variations":["Try adding different root vegetables like carrots or potatoes."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Dashi stock is essential in oden, providing umami flavor essential to Japanese cuisine.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":7,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":8},"geographic_region":"Japan","seasonality":"Winter","sustainability_score":{"score":75,"details":"Use locally sourced ingredients where possible to reduce transportation emissions."},"occasion":"Family dinner","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":20,"recommended_pairings":["Green tea","Sake"]} |
| Cozy Butternut Squash Soup | A comforting and simple butternut squash soup that's natural... | vegan, gluten-free, soup, autumn, comfort food | {"title":"Cozy Butternut Squash Soup","description":"A comforting and simple butternut squash soup that's naturally gluten-free and vegan, perfect for fall. Easy to prepare with stovetop, Crock-Pot, or Instant Pot options.","full_ingredient_list":["1 tablespoon olive oil","1 white onion, peeled and diced","4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced","2 cups vegetable broth","1 carrot, peeled and roughly chopped","1 Granny Smith apple, cored and roughly chopped","1 medium (about 3\u20134 lb) butternut squash, peeled, seeded and diced","1 sprig fresh sage","1\/8 teaspoon cayenne","pinch of ground cinnamon","pinch of nutmeg","1\/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk","fine sea salt, to taste","freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste","Optional garnishes: smoked paprika, extra drizzle of unsweetened coconut milk"],"components":[{"name":"Soup Base","ingredients":[{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["canola oil","vegetable oil"]},{"name":"white onion","quantity":"1, peeled and diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["yellow onion","shallots"]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"4, peeled and minced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"vegetable broth","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["chicken broth","water"]},{"name":"carrot","quantity":"1, peeled and roughly chopped","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["parsnip"]},{"name":"Granny Smith apple","quantity":"1, cored and roughly chopped","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["any other apple variety"]},{"name":"butternut squash","quantity":"1 medium (about 3\u20134 lb), peeled, seeded and diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["pumpkin","kabocha squash"]},{"name":"fresh sage","quantity":"1 sprig","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["dried sage"]},{"name":"cayenne pepper","quantity":"1\/8 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["chili powder"]},{"name":"ground cinnamon","quantity":"1 pinch","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["allspice"]},{"name":"nutmeg","quantity":"1 pinch","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"unsweetened coconut milk","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["heavy cream","half and half"]},{"name":"fine sea salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly-cracked black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Stovetop, Crock-Pot or Instant Pot","Immersion Blender or Traditional Blender"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and saut\u00e9 for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and saut\u00e9 for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.","tips":"This step is optional for the Crock-Pot version."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add vegetable broth, carrot, apple, butternut squash, sage, cayenne, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until vegetables are tender. Remove sage and stir in coconut milk.","tips":"Ensure all vegetables are submerged in broth."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Use an immersion blender to pur\u00e9e the soup until smooth. Alternately, pur\u00e9e in batches using a traditional blender.","tips":"Be careful when blending hot liquids in a traditional blender."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Season soup generously with salt and pepper. Serve warm with your choice of garnishes.","tips":"Consider garnishing with fried sage leaves, smoked paprika, or additional coconut milk."}]}],"prep_time":"20 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"50 minutes","servings":"6-8","tags":["vegan","gluten-free","soup","autumn","comfort food"],"notes":"The soup can be customized with various spices or extra ingredients like rice or grains. You can also roast the vegetables for added flavor."} |
| Crispy Fried Gorditas with Carnitas | A delightful recipe for making gorditas, which are thick, fried c... | Mexican, Appetizer, Snack, Carnitas, Taco, Street Food, Comfort Food, Fried, Stuffed, Vegetarian Options Available, Quick | {"title":"Crispy Fried Gorditas with Carnitas","description":"A delightful recipe for making gorditas, which are thick, fried corn dough circles, perfect for stuffing with various fillings like carnitas, cheese, and vegetables. This version takes a playful twist on traditional corn tortillas and enhances them with a crispy exterior and a creamy interior.","short_description":"Crispy fried gorditas perfect for stuffing with carnitas and more.","full_ingredient_list":["2 cups masa harina","1 teaspoon baking powder","1\/2 teaspoon salt","1 tablespoon vegetable oil","1 1\/4 cups warm water","Oil for frying, such as corn or peanut","Cooked meat, shredded or chopped","Refried beans","Cheese","Sour cream","Lettuce","Tomato","Onion","Cilantro"],"components":[{"name":"Dough","ingredients":[{"name":"masa harina","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"8 ounces by weight","substitutions":[]},{"name":"baking powder","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"vegetable oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"warm water","quantity":"1 1\/4 cups","preparation_notes":"approximate","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Oil for frying","quantity":"1 quart approximately","preparation_notes":"enough to be at least 1 inch deep, like corn or peanut","substitutions":["corn oil","peanut oil"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large bowl","Hot skillet","Serrated knife","Paper towels","Deep-fry thermometer"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a large bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add oil and about 1 cup of water. Stir to combine. Add enough water to make a dough that sticks together into a ball, but not so much that it sticks to your hands.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Divide dough into 4 pieces and pat each out to a circle about 4-5 inches across and 1\/2 inch thick.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Cook on a hot, dry skillet over medium-high heat for 1 1\/2 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned.","tips":""},{"step_number":5,"description":"Heat the oil to 360-375 degrees and place gorditas in the hot oil. They will rise to the surface after about 2 minutes. Turn and cook for another 30 seconds.","tips":"Make sure the oil is at the right temperature to ensure crispiness."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Allow gorditas to cool and drain on paper towels.","tips":""},{"step_number":7,"description":"Split open along the side with a serrated knife. Fill with desired fillings and serve right away.","tips":"Be cautious when cutting to avoid injury."}]},{"name":"Fillings","ingredients":[{"name":"Cooked meat","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"shredded or chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Refried beans","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cheese","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Cotija cheese"]},{"name":"Sour cream","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Lettuce","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Tomato","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Onion","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cilantro","quantity":"as desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"10 minutes","total_time":"15 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["Mexican","Appetizer","Snack","Carnitas","Taco","Street Food","Comfort Food","Fried","Stuffed","Vegetarian Options Available","Quick"],"notes":"Feel free to experiment with various fillings to suit your taste. Gorditas are highly versatile and can accommodate both meat and vegetarian options.","background":"Gorditas, translating to little fatties, are a popular Mexican food often found in street markets, especially in Austin. They are thick corn tortillas split open to be stuffed with a variety of fillings.","nutrition":{"calories":"Not Provided","protein":"Not Provided","fat":"Not Provided","carbohydrates":"Not Provided","fiber":"Not Provided","sugar":"Not Provided"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve gorditas hot with salsa and a squeeze of lime for an authentic touch.","storage":"Freshly made gorditas are best eaten immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.","dietary_info":["Contains corn","Can be made gluten-free if using certified gluten-free masa harina."],"cooking_tips":["Ensure oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve a crispy texture.","Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to maintain oil temperature."],"variations":["Try different meats like barbacoa or chicharrones.","For a vegetarian option, use grilled vegetables and beans."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Masa harina is a crucial ingredient to achieve the authentic taste of gorditas. It provides the distinctive corn flavor and texture.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":7,"sour":3,"bitter":1,"umami":6},"geographic_region":"Mexico","seasonality":"All year round","sustainability_score":{"score":65,"details":"Gorditas are generally sustainable due to their reliance on corn, though frying oil environmental impact varies by type."},"occasion":"Perfect for casual gatherings or as a street food snack.","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["Margaritas","Micheladas","Guacamole"]} |
| Oven-Baked Butternut Squash Risotto | Enjoy a comforting and nutritious oven-baked risotto featuring ca... | vegetarian, comfort food, fall, meal prep, oven-baked, easy, nut-free | {"title":"Oven-Baked Butternut Squash Risotto","description":"Enjoy a comforting and nutritious oven-baked risotto featuring caramelized butternut squash, crispy sage, and brown rice. This method reduces stirring time significantly for an easier cooking experience.","short_description":"Caramelized butternut squash risotto made with oven-baked brown rice.","full_ingredient_list":["3 tablespoons olive oil","1 small yellow onion, chopped","2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced","4 cups vegetable broth","1 cup water","1 \u00bd cups short-grain brown rice","1 small butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed","1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 2 \u00bd ounces)","\u00bd cup dry white wine","3 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced","1 teaspoon salt","Freshly ground black pepper","Pinch of red pepper flakes","16 to 20 fresh sage leaves, chopped","1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil"],"components":[{"name":"Butternut Squash Risotto","ingredients":[{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onion","quantity":"1 small, chopped","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"2 cloves, pressed or minced","preparation_notes":"pressed or minced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"vegetable broth","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"water","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"short-grain brown rice","quantity":"1 \u00bd cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"butternut squash","quantity":"1 small (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed","preparation_notes":"peeled and cubed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Parmesan cheese","quantity":"1 cup, freshly grated (about 2 \u00bd ounces)","preparation_notes":"freshly grated","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dry white wine","quantity":"\u00bd cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"unsalted butter","quantity":"3 tablespoons, diced","preparation_notes":"diced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon, more to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"freshly ground","substitutions":[]},{"name":"red pepper flakes","quantity":"Pinch","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large rimmed baking sheet","Parchment paper","Medium-to-large Dutch oven","Oven","Medium skillet","Paper towels"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F. Place oven racks in lower and upper third positions. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for the butternut squash.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and a pinch of salt. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add 3 cups broth and 1 cup water, cover, and bring to a boil. Stir in rice, cover the pot, and bake on the lower rack until rice is tender, about 65 to 70 minutes.","tips":"It will seem dry when you take off the lid, but don\u2019t worry!"},{"step_number":4,"description":"Toss the cubed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons olive oil on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast on the upper rack until caramelized, checking for doneness around 40 minutes.","tips":"Toss halfway through roasting."},{"step_number":5,"description":"While risotto and squash are in the oven, fry sage leaves in 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel and sprinkle with salt.","tips":""},{"step_number":6,"description":"Remove risotto from oven. Stir in the reserved broth, Parmesan, wine, and butter until creamy. Stir in salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.","tips":"Stir vigorously for a thick consistency."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Stir in the roasted butternut squash. Taste and adjust seasoning.","tips":""},{"step_number":8,"description":"Serve risotto topped with fried sage.","tips":""}]},{"name":"Fried Sage","ingredients":[{"name":"extra-virgin olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh sage leaves","quantity":"16 to 20, chopped","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Medium skillet","Paper towels"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add sage and fry until crispy but not browned.","tips":"Watch closely to prevent burning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Transfer to a paper towel and sprinkle lightly with salt.","tips":""}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"65 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 20 minutes","servings":"4 servings","tags":["vegetarian","comfort food","fall","meal prep","oven-baked","easy","nut-free"],"notes":"To make it dairy-free or vegan, replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil and skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast.","background":"This risotto offers a healthier take on a classic Italian comfort food dish.","nutrition":{"calories":"550","protein":"12g","fat":"20g","carbohydrates":"80g","fiber":"8g","sugar":"4g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve hot with a green salad and crusty bread.","storage":"Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.","dietary_info":["gluten-free","vegetarian","nut-free"],"cooking_tips":["Do not skip frying the sage for added flavor."],"variations":["Add peas or cooked mushrooms for extra flavor."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Brown short-grain rice enhances the nuttiness and chewy texture of the dish.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":8,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":5},"geographic_region":"Italian","seasonality":"Fall","sustainability_score":{"score":75,"details":"Utilizes seasonal produce with minimal meat and dairy use."},"occasion":"Thanksgiving","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":15,"recommended_pairings":["Chardonnay","light red wine"]} |
| Classic Fish Finger Sandwich with Tartare Sauce | Enjoy a delicious fish finger sandwich featuring crispy cod finge... | fish, sandwich, quick meals, under 30 minutes, comfort food | {"title":"Classic Fish Finger Sandwich with Tartare Sauce","description":"Enjoy a delicious fish finger sandwich featuring crispy cod fingers, fresh lettuce, and savory tartare sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.","short_description":"A classic fish finger sandwich with tartare sauce for a quick meal.","full_ingredient_list":["6 chunky cod fish fingers","4 thick slices of white bread","3-4 Little Gem leaves","2 gherkins","about 2 tbsp tomato ketchup","2 tbsp mayonnaise","2 tsp capers","2 tsp cocktail or regular gherkins","2 tsp flat-leaf parsley","1\/4 lemon (zest and juice)","Salt","Pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Sandwich","ingredients":[{"name":"chunky cod fish fingers","quantity":"6","preparation_notes":"-","substitutions":[]},{"name":"white bread","quantity":"4 slices","preparation_notes":"unsliced bakery loaf, cut thickly","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Little Gem leaves","quantity":"3-4 leaves","preparation_notes":"shredded","substitutions":["lettuce"]},{"name":"gherkins","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"sliced finely","substitutions":["pickles"]},{"name":"tomato ketchup","quantity":"about 2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"-","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["oven or skillet","knife","cutting board"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Cook the fish fingers according to the package instructions.","tips":"Ensure fish fingers are crispy by following optimal cooking instructions."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Butter the slices of bread.","tips":"Use softened butter for easy spreading."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Spoon the tartare sauce onto two slices of the bread.","tips":"Spread evenly to cover the entire slice."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add the shredded lettuce, cooked fish fingers, sliced gherkins, and a squeeze of tomato ketchup on top.","tips":"Layer neatly for better presentation."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Place the remaining bread slices on top and serve immediately.","tips":"Press gently to hold sandwich together."}]},{"name":"Tartare Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"mayonnaise","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"-","substitutions":[]},{"name":"capers","quantity":"2 tsp","preparation_notes":"drained and chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cocktail or regular gherkins","quantity":"2 tsp","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":["pickles"]},{"name":"flat-leaf parsley","quantity":"2 tsp","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":["other herbs"]},{"name":"lemon","quantity":"1\/4","preparation_notes":"zest and juice","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["mixing bowl","spoon","zester"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Mix the mayonnaise, capers, gherkins, parsley, lemon zest and juice together in a bowl.","tips":"Adjust saltiness by adding a pinch of salt."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Season with salt and pepper to taste.","tips":"Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"15 minutes","total_time":"25 minutes","servings":"2","tags":["fish","sandwich","quick meals","under 30 minutes","comfort food"],"notes":"Ideal for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.","background":"The fish finger sandwich is a classic British comfort food.","nutrition":{"calories":"771","protein":"37g","fat":"38g","carbohydrates":"68g","fiber":"5g","sugar":"9g"},"flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":7,"sour":3,"bitter":1,"umami":5},"geographic_region":"British","seasonality":"All year round","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["crisps","soda"]} |
| Classic Italian Chicken Cacciatore | A well-loved, hearty and flavorful Italian dish made with tender ... | Italian, Main Course, Hearty, Comfort Food | {"title":"Classic Italian Chicken Cacciatore","description":"A well-loved, hearty and flavorful Italian dish made with tender chicken and a robust sauce that's perfect for serving over pasta or polenta.","full_ingredient_list":["3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs","1 tablespoon olive oil","1 large onion, finely chopped","8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced","3 cloves garlic, minced","\u00bd teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)","2 tablespoons all-purpose flour","1 cup dry white wine","14.5 ounce canned diced tomatoes (undrained)","2 tablespoons tomato paste","3 bay leaves","1 small Parmesan rind","1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme","1 teaspoon dried oregano","1 large red bell pepper, chopped","Salt","Pepper","Fresh chopped parsley for garnish"],"components":[{"name":"Chicken and Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs","quantity":"3 pounds","preparation_notes":"about 8 pieces"},{"name":"Olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Onion","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"finely chopped"},{"name":"Fresh mushrooms","quantity":"8 ounces","preparation_notes":"sliced"},{"name":"Garlic","quantity":"3 cloves","preparation_notes":"minced"},{"name":"Crushed red pepper flakes","quantity":"\u00bd teaspoon","preparation_notes":"optional - more or less to taste"},{"name":"All-purpose flour","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Dry white wine","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Chicken broth"]},{"name":"Canned diced tomatoes","quantity":"14.5 ounce","preparation_notes":"do not drain"},{"name":"Tomato paste","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Bay leaves","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Parmesan rind","quantity":"1 small","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Fresh thyme leaves","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"or 1 teaspoon dried thyme"},{"name":"Dried oregano","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Red bell pepper","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"ribs and seeds removed, chopped"},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":""},{"name":"Fresh chopped parsley","quantity":"for garnish","preparation_notes":""}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large Dutch oven or skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add half of the chicken, skin side down, and cook until skin is crisp and browned.","tips":"Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Turn the chicken pieces over and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove to a plate and keep warm. Repeat with remaining chicken.","tips":"Remove the skin once browned to avoid sogginess later."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Using the reserved drippings in the pan, add onions, mushrooms, and a pinch of salt. Cook until browned and moisture evaporates.","tips":"Stir occasionally to prevent sticking."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add garlic and red pepper flakes, saut\u00e9 until fragrant. Stir in flour and continue cooking for 1 minute.","tips":"Flour helps to thicken the sauce."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Deglaze the pan with white wine. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, Parmesan rind, thyme, oregano, and red bell pepper.","tips":"Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Remove chicken skin and discard. Add chicken back into the pan, ensuring it's submerged in the sauce. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to low heat. Simmer until chicken is tender, about 40-45 minutes.","tips":"Halfway through, move chicken pieces around for even cooking."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Remove and discard bay leaves and Parmesan rind. Taste sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.","tips":"Enhance flavor with additional herbs if desired."},{"step_number":8,"description":"Serve over cooked spaghetti or polenta and garnish with fresh parsley.","tips":"Enjoy with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce."}]}],"prep_time":"30 minutes","cook_time":"1 hour","total_time":"1 hour 30 minutes","servings":"6 people","tags":["Italian","Main Course","Hearty","Comfort Food"],"notes":"This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent the chicken from drying out."} |
| Homemade Italian Meatball Subs | Delicious homemade beef parmesan meatballs cooked in fresh marina... | Italian, meatball subs, sandwich, comfort food, dinner, lunch, cheese, baking | {"title":"Homemade Italian Meatball Subs","description":"Delicious homemade beef parmesan meatballs cooked in fresh marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and served on butter-toasted French bread or sub rolls.","short_description":"Savory meatball subs with mozzarella and marinara sauce on toasted bread.","full_ingredient_list":["1 1\/2 lbs ground beef (80\/20)","1 teaspoon salt","1\/2 teaspoon pepper","1\/2 teaspoon garlic powder","1 large egg","3\/4 cup panko bread crumbs","3\/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese","1\/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, diced","24-32 ounces marinara sauce","2 cups mozzarella cheese","4 French bread loaves or sub rolls","Butter","Extra-virgin olive oil"],"components":[{"name":"Meatballs","ingredients":[{"name":"Ground beef","quantity":"1 1\/2 lbs","preparation_notes":"80\/20 preferred for juiciness","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic powder","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Egg","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Panko bread crumbs","quantity":"3\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Freshly grated parmesan cheese","quantity":"3\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"High-quality recommended","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Fresh Italian parsley","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"Diced","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Bowl","Measuring cups","Measuring spoons"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Mix ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, panko bread crumbs, parsley, egg, and parmesan cheese in a bowl until well combined.","tips":"Use your hands for better mixing."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Roll the meat mixture into large meatballs.","tips":"Size can be adjusted to preference."}]},{"name":"Cooking and Assembling Subs","ingredients":[{"name":"Marinara sauce","quantity":"24-32 ounces","preparation_notes":"Homemade or store-bought","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Mozzarella cheese","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"Or more to taste","substitutions":[]},{"name":"French bread or sub rolls","quantity":"4","preparation_notes":"Sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Butter","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"For spreading on bread","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Extra-virgin olive oil","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"For sauteing","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large skillet","Large pot","Oven","Broiler","Spatula"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.","tips":"Ensure oil is hot before adding meatballs for proper browning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add meatballs to skillet and brown for 5-7 minutes, turning once.","tips":"Aim for even browning on all sides."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Transfer browned meatballs to a pot of simmering marinara sauce and let cook for 20 minutes over low heat.","tips":"This step ensures the meatballs stay juicy."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Cut bread in half without slicing all the way through. Spread butter on each side and broil until butter is melted.","tips":"Watch closely to prevent burning."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Place meatballs and sauce onto bread, top with mozzarella cheese, and broil until cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.","tips":"Serve with extra sauce for dipping."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"4 subs","tags":["Italian","meatball subs","sandwich","comfort food","dinner","lunch","cheese","baking"],"notes":"Feel free to add some extra spice with marinated Italian peppers.","background":"Meatball subs are a classic Italian-American sandwich, popular for their satisfying combination of meat, cheese, and bread.","nutrition":{"calories":"Approx. 800","protein":"45g","fat":"42g","carbohydrates":"60g","fiber":"3g","sugar":"8g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with a side salad or fries for a complete meal.","storage":"Best eaten fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, reheat in the oven for best results.","dietary_info":["Contains dairy","Contains gluten","Contains eggs"],"cooking_tips":["Ensure the skillet is hot enough to brown the meatballs properly.","Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor."],"variations":["Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.","Add dried oregano or thyme for additional flavor."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Parmesan cheese is essential for its nutty flavor and helps bind the meatballs.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":8,"sour":3,"bitter":2,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Italian-American","seasonality":"All year","sustainability_score":{"score":65,"details":"Using local beef and eco-friendly packaging for cheese can improve score."},"occasion":"Casual dinner or lunch, game day","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":20,"recommended_pairings":["Red wine","Iced tea","Lemonade"]} |
| Effortless Oven-Baked Polenta | Experience the simplicity and richness of oven-baked polenta. Unl... | vegetarian, gluten-free, comfort food, easy recipes, oven-baked, Italian cuisine, fall, winter, side dish | {"title":"Effortless Oven-Baked Polenta","description":"Experience the simplicity and richness of oven-baked polenta. Unlike traditional stovetop methods, this recipe requires minimal monitoring, giving you time to prepare sides or relax. This dish is perfect as a side or base for savory toppings such as poached eggs, caramelized cabbage, or roasted mushrooms.","short_description":"Creamy, no-stir oven-baked polenta perfect for easy side dishes.","full_ingredient_list":["butter for greasing","1 cup medium-coarse or coarse cornmeal, preferably stone-ground","4 to 5 cups water","1 cup milk","1 tablespoon butter or olive oil","1 teaspoon kosher salt","eggs for poaching","splash vinegar","shaved parmesan, optional","sea salt, optional","pepper, optional","truffle oil, optional","saut\u00e9ed greens, optional"],"components":[{"name":"Baked Polenta","ingredients":[{"name":"butter","quantity":"for greasing","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"medium-coarse or coarse cornmeal, preferably stone-ground","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["fine polenta"]},{"name":"water","quantity":"4 to 5 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"milk","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["more water"]},{"name":"butter or olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon, plus more to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"eggs","quantity":"for poaching","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"splash vinegar","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"for poaching eggs","substitutions":[]},{"name":"shaved parmesan","quantity":"optional","preparation_notes":"for serving","substitutions":[]},{"name":"sea salt","quantity":"optional","preparation_notes":"for serving","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"optional","preparation_notes":"for seasoning","substitutions":[]},{"name":"truffle oil","quantity":"optional","preparation_notes":"for drizzling","substitutions":[]},{"name":"saut\u00e9ed greens","quantity":"optional","preparation_notes":"for serving","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven","oven","fork or whisk","shallow saucepan","ramekins or small bowls","slotted spoon","paper towel"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat your oven to 350\u00b0F. Grease a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Combine cornmeal, water, milk, butter, and salt in the greased pan. Stir with a fork or whisk until blended. Mixture may not look fully emulsified.","tips":"Ensure even mixing to avoid clumps."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Bake the mixture uncovered for 40 minutes. Stir, taste, add salt if needed, and bake for another 10 to 20 minutes until the desired consistency is achieved. Remove from the oven, stir, and serve or keep warm until ready to serve.","tips":"Adjust baking time based on your desired polenta thickness."},{"step_number":4,"description":"To poach eggs, bring a shallow saucepan of water to a boil. Add vinegar. Reduce water to a simmer. Crack eggs into ramekins and gently pour each into the water. Poach for 4 to 5 minutes until whites set and yolk soft.","tips":"Practice poaching eggs to achieve your preferred doneness."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Serve by spooning polenta into bowls. Top with parmesan, a poached egg, then season with sea salt and pepper. Drizzle with truffle oil if desired. Add saut\u00e9ed greens for a complete meal.","tips":"Be creative with toppings based on your preference."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"50 minutes","total_time":"55 minutes","servings":"6 to 8","tags":["vegetarian","gluten-free","comfort food","easy recipes","oven-baked","Italian cuisine","fall","winter","side dish"],"notes":"For a thicker consistency, reduce water to 4 cups. Try different toppings for variety.","background":"The use of an oven instead of the stovetop liberates cooks by eliminating the need for constant stirring and monitoring of the polenta.","nutrition":{"calories":"N\/A","protein":"N\/A","fat":"N\/A","carbohydrates":"N\/A","fiber":"N\/A","sugar":"N\/A"},"serving_suggestions":"Pair with braised meats or roasted vegetables. Excellent with a poached egg for added protein.","storage":"Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.","dietary_info":["contains dairy"],"cooking_tips":["Check consistency after initial baking. Adjust water content if necessary."],"variations":["Use an Instant Pot for quicker preparation."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Polenta, a versatile grain, serves as a perfect canvas for a variety of savory and sweet toppings.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":1,"savory":7,"sour":1,"bitter":0,"umami":4},"geographic_region":"Italy","seasonality":"Fall, Winter","sustainability_score":{"score":80,"details":"Moderate ecological impact due to corn production; environmentally friendly when using locally sourced ingredients."},"occasion":"Casual dinners, family meals","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":5,"recommended_pairings":["sherry vinegar chicken","braised short ribs"]} |
| Julia Child's Classic Coq au Vin | A timeless French chicken stew recipe enriched with brandy, red w... | French, Mains, Chicken, Comfort Food | {"title":"Julia Child's Classic Coq au Vin","description":"A timeless French chicken stew recipe enriched with brandy, red wine, and the smoky flavor of bacon, perfect for a comforting meal.","full_ingredient_list":["1\/2 cup lardons or thickly sliced bacon","2 or more tablespoons olive oil","3 1\/2 to 4 1\/2 pounds chicken, cut into pieces and dried","1\/4 cup Cognac or Armagnac","20 pearl onions, peeled","3 tablespoons all-purpose flour","2 cups red wine","2 cups chicken stock or beef stock","2 garlic cloves, mashed","1 tablespoon tomato paste","3\/4 pound fresh mushrooms, trimmed and quartered","Bay leaf","1\/4 teaspoon dried thyme","Salt","Freshly ground black pepper","Fresh thyme sprigs"],"components":[{"name":"Coq au Vin Base","ingredients":[{"name":"lardons or thickly sliced bacon","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"cut into 1\/4- by 1 1\/2-inch strips","substitutions":[]},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"2 or more tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"chicken","quantity":"3 1\/2 to 4 1\/2 pounds","preparation_notes":"cut into pieces, thoroughly dried with paper towel","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cognac or Armagnac","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pearl onions","quantity":"20","preparation_notes":"peeled","substitutions":["frozen pearl onions"]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"red wine","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Burgundy, C\u00f4tes du Rh\u00f4ne, or pinot noir"]},{"name":"chicken stock or beef stock","quantity":"About 2 cups","preparation_notes":"preferably brown chicken stock","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"mashed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"tomato paste","quantity":"About 1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh mushrooms","quantity":"3\/4 pound","preparation_notes":"trimmed, rinsed, and quartered","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bay leaf","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried thyme","quantity":"1\/4 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh thyme sprigs","quantity":"optional","preparation_notes":"for garnish","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Heavy-bottomed pot","Slotted spoon","Lighter or match (for igniting Cognac)","Cover or lid for pot"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Sear the lardons or bacon in the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.","tips":"Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the fat for cooking."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add the chicken pieces to the pot, ensuring not to overcrowd them, and brown on all sides. Do this in batches if necessary.","tips":"Ensure the chicken is dry for better browning."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Carefully pour the Cognac into the pot. Ignite with a match if desired, letting it burn off until the flames subside, then cover the pot with a lid to extinguish any remaining flames.","tips":"This step is optional; use caution to avoid fires."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Nestle the onions around the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer gently, turning occasionally, for 10 minutes.","tips":"Ensure the onions are evenly distributed for uniform cooking."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and onions, turning to coat and absorb. Cover and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.","tips":"This helps thicken the sauce as it cooks."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Remove pot from the heat. Gradually stir in the wine and enough stock to almost cover the chicken. Add lardons, garlic, and tomato paste. Cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.","tips":"Adjust the amount of stock based on the depth of the liquid around the chicken."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Test chicken for doneness (no pink inside, juices should run clear). If done, transfer chicken to a plate. If onions aren't tender, continue cooking them.","tips":"If needed, remove onions separately to ensure they're cooked through."},{"step_number":8,"description":"Return the chicken to the pot, add mushrooms, and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes. Adjust sauce consistency by boiling or adding stock as needed. Season to taste.","tips":"Adjust the seasoning before serving to enhance flavors."},{"step_number":9,"description":"Serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh thyme sprigs.","tips":""}]}],"prep_time":"30 minutes","cook_time":"1 hour","total_time":"1 hour 30 minutes","servings":"4 to 6 servings","tags":["French","Mains","Chicken","Comfort Food"],"notes":"This version of coq au vin is a modern take on Julia Child's classic with the same depth of flavor and simplicity in preparation. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance. Garnishing with thyme sprigs is optional but adds a fresh touch to the presentation."} |
| Heart-Warming Chicken Noodle Soup | A comforting homemade chicken noodle soup made from scratch to ke... | comfort food, soup, easy, chicken | {"title":"Heart-Warming Chicken Noodle Soup","description":"A comforting homemade chicken noodle soup made from scratch to keep you warm.","prep_time":"20 minutes","cook_time":"45 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 5 minutes","servings":"6 servings","tags":["comfort food","soup","easy","chicken"],"notes":"Can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.","components":[{"name":"Soup Base","ingredients":[{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["avocado oil"]},{"name":"carrots","quantity":"2, peeled and sliced into 1\/4-inch thick pieces","preparation_notes":"peeled and sliced","substitutions":["parsnips"]},{"name":"celery","quantity":"2 stalks, sliced into 1\/4-inch thick pieces","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":["fennel"]},{"name":"onion","quantity":"1, diced","preparation_notes":"diced","substitutions":["shallots"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"3 cloves, minced","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"boneless, skinless chicken thighs","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["chicken breast"]},{"name":"chicken stock","quantity":"6 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable broth"]},{"name":"bay leaf","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"egg noodles","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["gluten-free noodles"]},{"name":"lemon juice","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"freshly squeezed","substitutions":["lime juice"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large pot","knife","cutting board","ladle"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.","tips":"Don't let the vegetables brown; they should just soften."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.","tips":"Be careful not to burn the garlic."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Stir in chicken, chicken stock, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, until chicken is cooked through, about 25-30 minutes.","tips":"Skim any foam that rises to the top while simmering."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Remove chicken from the pot and shred with two forks.","tips":"Shredding is easier when the chicken is warm."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in egg noodles and cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes.","tips":"Adjust timing based on noodle brand."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.","tips":"Adjust acidity with more or less lemon juice as desired."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Serve immediately; garnish with fresh herbs if desired.","tips":"Parsley or dill would work well as a garnish."}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["1 tablespoon olive oil","2 carrots, peeled and sliced into 1\/4-inch thick pieces","2 stalks celery, sliced into 1\/4-inch thick pieces","1 onion, diced","3 cloves garlic, minced","1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs","6 cups chicken stock","1 bay leaf","2 cups egg noodles","2 tablespoons lemon juice","salt to taste","freshly ground black pepper to taste"]} |
| Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup | A warm, comforting Italian soup filled with seasonal vegetables, ... | vegetarian, Italian, soup, comfort food | {"title":"Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup","description":"A warm, comforting Italian soup filled with seasonal vegetables, tender pasta, and a rich tomato broth. Perfect for a cozy meal with some crusty bread.","prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"45 minutes","servings":"4 to 6","tags":["vegetarian","Italian","soup","comfort food"],"components":[{"name":"Minestrone Soup Base","ingredients":[{"name":"extra-virgin olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onion","quantity":"1 medium","preparation_notes":"diced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"carrots","quantity":"2 medium","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"celery ribs","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"thinly sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"grated","substitutions":[]},{"name":"diced tomatoes","quantity":"1 (28-ounce) can","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"white beans or kidney beans","quantity":"1\u00bd cups cooked","preparation_notes":"drained and rinsed","substitutions":["chickpeas"]},{"name":"green beans","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":["zucchini"]},{"name":"vegetable broth","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bay leaves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried oregano","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried thyme","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"small pasta","quantity":"\u00be cup","preparation_notes":"elbows, shells, or orecchiette","substitutions":["pearled farro","barley"]},{"name":"fresh parsley","quantity":"\u00bd cup","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":["fresh basil"]},{"name":"red pepper flakes","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"for serving","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Parmesan cheese","quantity":"grated, for serving","preparation_notes":"optional","substitutions":["vegan pesto"]},{"name":"sea salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"plus more to taste","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"freshly ground","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large pot","wooden spoon or spatula"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add the garlic, diced tomatoes, white beans, green beans, vegetable broth, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Stir in the pasta and cook, uncovered, for 10 more minutes, until the pasta is cooked through.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Season the soup to taste with additional salt and pepper. Serve in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese, if desired.","tips":"For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives."}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil","1 medium yellow onion, diced","2 medium carrots, chopped","2 celery ribs, thinly sliced","3 garlic cloves, grated","1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes","1\u00bd cups cooked white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed","1 cup chopped green beans","4 cups vegetable broth","2 bay leaves","1 teaspoon dried oregano","1 teaspoon dried thyme","\u00be cup small pasta, elbows, shells, orecchiette","\u00bd cup chopped fresh parsley","Red pepper flakes for serving","Grated Parmesan cheese for serving","1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste","Freshly ground black pepper"],"notes":"This soup is excellent when freshly made, as the pasta will absorb the broth if left as leftovers. Consider cooking the pasta separately if you plan to store the soup."} |
| Ultimate Grilled Cheese Delight | Elevate your classic grilled cheese with a mix of sharp cheddar a... | Quick & Easy, Vegetarian, Comfort Food | {"title":"Ultimate Grilled Cheese Delight","description":"Elevate your classic grilled cheese with a mix of sharp cheddar and nutty Gruy\u00e8re. Perfect for a quick comfort meal.","prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"5 minutes","total_time":"15 minutes","servings":"1 sandwich","tags":["Quick & Easy","Vegetarian","Comfort Food"],"notes":"For a delightful crunch, consider toasting the inside faces of the bread before assembling the sandwich.","full_ingredient_list":["2 \u00bd-inch thick slices good quality bread (such as Italian or whole grain)","1 to 2 tablespoons softened butter or mayonnaise (such as Hellmann's or Duke's)","2 slices of medium or sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 oz)","1 oz (\u00bd cup) shredded Gruy\u00e8re cheese"],"components":[{"name":"Grilled Cheese Sandwich","ingredients":[{"name":"Good quality bread","quantity":"2 \u00bd-inch thick slices","preparation_notes":"such as Italian or whole grain, with no holes.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Softened butter or mayonnaise","quantity":"1 to 2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"Best quality, such as Hellmann's or Duke's, as needed.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cheddar cheese","quantity":"2 slices (about 2 oz)","preparation_notes":"Medium or sharp.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Gruy\u00e8re cheese","quantity":"1 oz (\u00bd cup)","preparation_notes":"Shredded.","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Butter knife","Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan","Spatula","Cutting board","Sharp knife"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Using a butter knife, spread a thin layer of the mayonnaise or softened butter on one side of each bread slice, ensuring full coverage up to the edges. Align the slices so that when assembled, the shapes match.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Once heated, place one slice of bread in the skillet, mayo\/butter side down. Layer 2 slices of cheddar cheese onto the bread, ensuring even coverage. Evenly sprinkle the shredded Gruy\u00e8re over the cheddar. Place the second slice of bread on top, mayo\/butter side up.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Cook the sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes on one side, or until it's golden brown and crispy. Using a spatula, carefully flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for another few minutes, or until it's also golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and place it onto a cutting board. Let it sit for a minute, then cut the sandwich in half using a sharp knife. Serve immediately while it's still warm.","tips":"Pair with tomato soup for a comforting meal."}]}]} |
| Cozy Chicken and Dumplings Soup | A comforting chicken soup with tender dumplings, perfect for warm... | comfort food, soup, chicken | {"title":"Cozy Chicken and Dumplings Soup","description":"A comforting chicken soup with tender dumplings, perfect for warming up on a cold day.","prep_time":"20 minutes","cook_time":"45 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 5 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["comfort food","soup","chicken"],"notes":"This homemade chicken and dumplings soup is great for using up leftover chicken. You can also freeze the leftovers for easy future meals.","full_ingredient_list":["2 tablespoons olive oil","1 onion, diced","3 carrots, cut into 1\/2-inch pieces","2 stalks celery, sliced","3 cloves garlic, minced","8 cups chicken stock","2 bay leaves","2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves","2 cups shredded cooked chicken","1 1\/4 cups all-purpose flour","2 teaspoons baking powder","1\/2 teaspoon baking soda","1 cup buttermilk","Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste"],"components":[{"name":"Soup Base","ingredients":[{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["canola oil","vegetable oil"]},{"name":"onion","quantity":"1, diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["shallots"]},{"name":"carrots","quantity":"3, cut into 1\/2-inch pieces","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["parsnips"]},{"name":"celery stalks","quantity":"2, sliced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["fennel"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"3 cloves, minced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"chicken stock","quantity":"8 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable broth"]},{"name":"bay leaves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh thyme leaves","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["dried thyme"]},{"name":"shredded cooked chicken","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["turkey"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["soy sauce","seasoning salt"]},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large pot","stirring spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and saut\u00e9 until tender.","tips":"Ensure vegetables are evenly cut for consistent cooking."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add garlic and saut\u00e9 for another minute until fragrant.","tips":"Avoid burning the garlic by stirring continuously."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Stir in chicken stock, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.","tips":"Allow herbs to infuse the broth for extra flavor."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.","tips":"Use leftover rotisserie chicken for easier preparation."}]},{"name":"Dumplings","ingredients":[{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"1 1\/4 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["whole wheat flour"]},{"name":"baking powder","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["self-raising flour"]},{"name":"baking soda","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"buttermilk","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["milk with vinegar"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["seasoned salt"]},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["mixing bowl","spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.","tips":"Use a sieve to ensure no lumps form in the flour mixture."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pour in buttermilk and stir until a dough forms. Season with salt and pepper.","tips":"Do not overmix the dough to keep the dumplings light and fluffy."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough into the simmering soup. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, until dumplings are cooked through.","tips":"Check dumplings for doneness with a toothpick."}]}]} |
| Simple American Goulash | A quick and comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef and pas... | American, Comfort Food, One-Pan | {"title":"Simple American Goulash","description":"A quick and comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef and pasta in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.","full_ingredient_list":["1 tbsp olive oil","1 cup onion, diced","1 green bell pepper, diced","2 lbs. ground beef, lean","3 tsp garlic, minced","2 15 oz cans tomato sauce","2 15 oz cans petite diced tomatoes","3 cups beef broth","3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce","2 cups macaroni noodles, uncooked","1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded","2 tsp seasoned salt","2 tbsp Italian Seasoning","3 bay leaves"],"components":[{"name":"Goulash Base","ingredients":[{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"onion","quantity":"1 cup, diced","preparation_notes":"Use white or yellow onion.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"green bell pepper","quantity":"1, diced","preparation_notes":"Other colored peppers can be used.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground beef","quantity":"2 lbs, lean","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["ground turkey"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"3 tsp, minced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"tomato sauce","quantity":"2 15 oz cans","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"petite diced tomatoes","quantity":"2 15 oz cans","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"beef broth","quantity":"3 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Worcestershire Sauce","quantity":"3 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"macaroni noodles","quantity":"2 cups, uncooked","preparation_notes":"Other small pasta can be substituted.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cheddar cheese","quantity":"1 cup, shredded","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"seasoned salt","quantity":"2 tsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Italian Seasoning","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bay leaves","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large pot","Wooden spoon","Cheese grater"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Add olive oil to a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook onion, bell pepper, and ground beef until beef is no longer pink.","tips":"Use lean ground beef to minimize fat. Drain excess fat after cooking."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.","tips":"Stir frequently to prevent burning."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and macaroni noodles. Stir and bring mixture to a boil.","tips":"Reduce heat if mixture boils too vigorously."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Reduce heat to a light boil and stir occasionally until pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.","tips":"Taste-test pasta at 15 minutes if you prefer it al dente."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Remove bay leaves and stir in cheddar cheese just before serving.","tips":"Ensure cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"35 minutes","servings":"10","tags":["American","Comfort Food","One-Pan"],"notes":"This goulash is perfect for potlucks and can be adapted with additional vegetables or by using ground turkey for a leaner version."} |
| Simple Cacio e Pepe Pasta | A quick and classic Roman pasta dish made with just four key ingr... | Italian, Pasta, Quick, Comfort Food | {"title":"Simple Cacio e Pepe Pasta","description":"A quick and classic Roman pasta dish made with just four key ingredients. Perfect for a comforting meal in under 30 minutes.","full_ingredient_list":["8 ounces uncooked pasta (e.g., bucatini)","2 tablespoons butter, diced into 1-tablespoon chunks","2 ounces finely-grated Pecorino-Romano cheese","1 teaspoon freshly-ground coarse black pepper","Fine sea salt (for boiling water)"],"components":[{"name":"Cacio e Pepe Pasta","ingredients":[{"name":"uncooked pasta","quantity":"8 ounces","preparation_notes":"Bucatini recommended","substitutions":["Thick spaghetti","Tonnarelli"]},{"name":"butter","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"Diced into 1-tablespoon chunks","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Pecorino-Romano cheese","quantity":"2 ounces","preparation_notes":"Finely-grated","substitutions":["Parmesan (for half portion)"]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"Freshly-ground, coarse","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fine sea salt","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"For seasoning pasta water","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large stockpot","Large saut\u00e9 pan (preferably nonstick)","Tongs or spider strainer","Fine grater","Measuring cups or heatproof cup"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Fill a large stockpot halfway with water (about 3 quarts) and bring to a rolling boil. Season the water with 2 tablespoons of fine sea salt.","tips":"Ensure the water is salty like the sea."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large saut\u00e9 pan over medium heat. Add the black pepper and cook for 30 seconds, then turn off the heat.","tips":"If using an electric stove, remove the pan from the heat to avoid overheating."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook until just al dente, stirring occasionally.","tips":"Start checking for al dente at about 2 minutes less than package instructions."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Using tongs, quickly transfer the pasta directly to the saut\u00e9 pan with melted butter and pepper. Add 1\/3 cup of starchy pasta water.","tips":"Reserve extra pasta water just in case you need more to adjust the sauce."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Add half of the grated cheese to the pan and toss the pasta to combine, adding more pasta water as necessary until a smooth sauce forms.","tips":"Toss continuously to avoid cheese clumping."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional black pepper and grated Pecorino-Romano if desired.","tips":"Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"20 minutes","total_time":"30 minutes","servings":"2 to 3 servings","tags":["Italian","Pasta","Quick","Comfort Food"],"notes":"For a more authentic version, you can omit the butter and use extra pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess. Freshly grated cheese is crucial to prevent clumping."} |
| Savory Sausage and Peppers Sandwich | Delight in a classic American-Italian Sausage and Peppers Sandwic... | Italian, American-Italian, Sandwich, Dinner, Comfort Food, Hearty, Sausage, Peppers, Onions, Tomato Sauce | {"title":"Savory Sausage and Peppers Sandwich","description":"Delight in a classic American-Italian Sausage and Peppers Sandwich, featuring juicy Italian sausages and thinly sliced bell peppers and onions enveloped in a thick, flavorful tomato sauce. This rich filling is served on a lightly crisped baguette and topped with a touch of parmesan, creating a hearty sandwich perfect for a satisfying dinner.","short_description":"A hearty sandwich with Italian sausage, peppers, and onions in a rich tomato sauce.","full_ingredient_list":["6 Italian sausages","4 small baguettes or Italian rolls","1 can (14oz\/400g) skinned plum tomatoes or chopped tomatoes","1\/4 cup (60ml) chicken stock","2 large bell peppers","1 medium onion","2 cloves garlic","1 heaped tablespoon tomato paste","1 tablespoon red wine vinegar","1\/2 teaspoon dried basil","1\/2 teaspoon dried oregano","1\/4 to 1\/2 teaspoon chili flakes","sugar, to taste","olive oil for frying","4 tablespoons butter","4 pinches parmesan cheese","fresh parsley (optional)","salt and pepper to taste"],"components":[{"name":"Sausage and Peppers Filling","ingredients":[{"name":"Italian sausages","quantity":"6","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Plum tomatoes or chopped tomatoes","quantity":"1 can (14oz\/400g)","preparation_notes":"use good quality","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Chicken stock","quantity":"1\/4 cup (60ml)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable stock"]},{"name":"Bell peppers","quantity":"2 large","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Onion","quantity":"1 medium","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic","quantity":"2 cloves","preparation_notes":"finely diced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Tomato paste","quantity":"1 heaped tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Red wine vinegar","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Dried basil","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Dried oregano","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Chili flakes","quantity":"1\/4 to 1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large frying pan","Wooden spoon","Sharp knife","Chopping board","Tongs","Side bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a large pan over low-medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Fry sausages for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently. Remove sausages and set aside.","tips":"Fry at a lower heat to render down the fat and make the skin crispy."},{"step_number":2,"description":"In the same pan, fry the sliced peppers and onions until they begin to soften and brown. Add garlic and fry for another minute.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Stir in tomato paste and fry for 2 minutes.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Pour in chicken stock and deglaze the pan with a wooden spoon.","tips":""},{"step_number":5,"description":"Add tomatoes, red wine vinegar, basil, oregano, chili flakes, and a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.","tips":""},{"step_number":6,"description":"Slice the sausages into chunks and add back into the sauce. Lower the heat slightly and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.","tips":"Reducing the sauce helps to marry all the flavors together."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"4 sandwiches","tags":["Italian","American-Italian","Sandwich","Dinner","Comfort Food","Hearty","Sausage","Peppers","Onions","Tomato Sauce"],"notes":"You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day before reheating.","background":"The sausage and peppers sandwich is a well-loved dish with roots in Italian-American cuisine, often seen at festivals and family gatherings.","nutrition":{"calories":"612","protein":"21.84g","fat":"43.76g","carbohydrates":"32.19g","fiber":"4.8g","sugar":"9.25g"},"serving_suggestions":"Best served with a side of fries or marinated olives.","storage":"Store the sausage and peppers mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.","dietary_info":["Contains gluten","Contains dairy"],"cooking_tips":["Keep the heat low when frying sausages to ensure they are cooked through without burning."],"variations":["Try adding provolone cheese for an extra cheesy sandwich."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Italian sausages are the star of this dish, providing rich, herby flavors that complement the peppers and tomato sauce perfectly.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":8,"sour":4,"bitter":2,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Italian-American","seasonality":"All year round","sustainability_score":{"score":75,"details":"Using locally sourced sausages and seasonal bell peppers can enhance the sustainability of this dish."},"occasion":"Family dinner","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["Garlic Parmesan Fries","Red wine"]} |
| Creamy Chicken Alfredo Ziti Bake | A simple and delicious baked pasta dish featuring chicken, bacon,... | main dish, pasta, comfort food, baked, easy | {"title":"Creamy Chicken Alfredo Ziti Bake","description":"A simple and delicious baked pasta dish featuring chicken, bacon, and a homemade Alfredo sauce.","full_ingredient_list":["450 g uncooked ziti or penne noodles","2 cups shredded chicken, cooked","1\/4 cup chopped bacon, cooked (about 5-6 pieces)","1.5 cups mozzarella cheese","parsley for garnish","1\/2 cup butter","3 tbsp flour","3 cloves garlic, minced","2 cups heavy cream","2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese","salt to taste","pepper to taste"],"components":[{"name":"Pasta and Main Dish","ingredients":[{"name":"ziti or penne noodles","quantity":"450 g","preparation_notes":"uncooked","substitutions":["rigatoni"]},{"name":"shredded chicken","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"cooked","substitutions":["turkey"]},{"name":"chopped bacon","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"cooked (about 5-6 pieces)","substitutions":["turkey bacon"]},{"name":"mozzarella cheese","quantity":"1.5 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["cheddar cheese"]},{"name":"parsley","quantity":"to garnish","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Casserole dish","Pot for boiling pasta"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C), and grease a casserole dish with cooking spray.","tips":"Ensure the dish is well-coated to prevent sticking."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.","tips":"Rinse with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process."},{"step_number":3,"description":"In a large pot, combine cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and chopped bacon.","tips":"Toss gently to ensure even distribution of sauce and ingredients."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.","tips":"Spread evenly for uniform baking."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.","tips":"Press down lightly to compact the ingredients."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.","tips":"Make sure to check that the middle is hot before serving."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Garnish with parsley before serving.","tips":"Chop parsley finely for even distribution."}]},{"name":"Homemade Alfredo Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"butter","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"flour","quantity":"3 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"3 cloves","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"heavy cream","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["half-and-half"]},{"name":"freshly grated parmesan cheese","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["grana padano"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Saucepan","Whisk"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.","tips":"Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add flour to the butter and garlic, stirring for another minute.","tips":"Whisk continuously to avoid lumps."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Gradually add heavy cream and parmesan, whisking until smooth. Bring to a simmer and allow it to thicken.","tips":"Simmer for no longer than 2 minutes to prevent over-thickening."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"8","tags":["main dish","pasta","comfort food","baked","easy"],"notes":"For a lighter option, replace 1 cup of cream with chicken broth. You can also freeze this dish for later; ensure it's thoroughly thawed before reheating."} |
| Quick and Creamy Beef Stroganoff | A comforting dish with tender steak and mushrooms in a garlic-inf... | main dish, beef, comfort food | {"title":"Quick and Creamy Beef Stroganoff","description":"A comforting dish with tender steak and mushrooms in a garlic-infused creamy sauce, served over noodles or rice. Ready in 30 minutes.","prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"25 minutes","total_time":"30 minutes","servings":"4-6","tags":["main dish","beef","comfort food"],"full_ingredient_list":["1 pound uncooked wide egg noodles","1\/4 cup butter, divided","1 1\/2 pounds thinly-sliced steak (such as flank)","1 small white onion, thinly sliced","1 pound sliced mushrooms (button and baby bella)","4 cloves garlic, minced","1\/2 cup dry white wine","1 1\/2 cups beef stock","1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce","3 tablespoons all-purpose flour","1\/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream","Chopped fresh parsley (optional)","Fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Main Dish","ingredients":[{"name":"uncooked wide egg noodles","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"Cook in salted water until al dente","substitutions":["rice","polenta"]},{"name":"butter","quantity":"1\/4 cup, divided","preparation_notes":"2 tablespoons for steak, 2 tablespoons for veggies","substitutions":["oil"]},{"name":"thinly-sliced steak","quantity":"1 1\/2 pounds","preparation_notes":"Slice against the grain","substitutions":["ground beef","chicken"]},{"name":"white onion","quantity":"1 small, thinly sliced","preparation_notes":"Thinly slice","substitutions":["yellow onion"]},{"name":"sliced mushrooms","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"Use button or baby bella","substitutions":["any mushroom variety"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"4 cloves, minced","preparation_notes":"Minced or pressed","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"dry white wine","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"For deglazing","substitutions":["extra beef stock"]},{"name":"beef stock","quantity":"1 1\/2 cups","preparation_notes":"Used in sauce","substitutions":["vegetable stock"]},{"name":"Worcestershire sauce","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"Included in sauce mixture","substitutions":["soy sauce"]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"For thickening","substitutions":["cornstarch slurry"]},{"name":"plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"Folded into sauce","substitutions":["heavy cream"]},{"name":"chopped fresh parsley (optional)","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"For garnish","substitutions":["dried parsley"]},{"name":"fine sea salt","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"For seasoning","substitutions":["table salt"]},{"name":"freshly-cracked black pepper","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"For seasoning","substitutions":["ground black pepper"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large stockpot","large saut\u00e9 pan","slotted spoon","whisk"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Cook egg noodles in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain.","tips":"Start noodles when adding beef stock in step 4 for optimal timing."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saut\u00e9 pan over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 3 minutes on each side until browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer steak to a plate.","tips":"Cook in batches if necessary."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add the remaining butter to the pan, saut\u00e9 the onions for 3 minutes, then add mushrooms and cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and saut\u00e9 for 1 minute. Pour in the white wine to deglaze, cooking for 3 additional minutes.","tips":"Stir occasionally to avoid burning."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Whisk together beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and flour until smooth. Pour into the pan, stir, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in Greek yogurt and cooked steak until combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.","tips":"Ensure sauce is smooth before adding the steak."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Serve hot over egg noodles, garnished with chopped parsley and black pepper if desired.","tips":"Ensure steak is evenly distributed for serving."}]}],"notes":"For variations, try using different proteins like chicken or tofu, and consider adding extra vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers."} |
| Hearty Ground Beef Chili | A comforting and thick beef chili featuring ground beef, beans, a... | main course, American, beef, comfort food, chili | {"title":"Hearty Ground Beef Chili","description":"A comforting and thick beef chili featuring ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for chilly days and great for topping with cheese or transforming into dishes like Frito pie.","prep_time":"20 mins","cook_time":"2 hrs 10 mins","total_time":"2 hrs 30 mins","servings":"8","tags":["main course","American","beef","comfort food","chili"],"components":[{"name":"Chili Base","ingredients":[{"name":"vegetable oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onions","quantity":"2 medium, finely chopped","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"red bell pepper","quantity":"1, stemmed, seeded and finely chopped","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"chili powder","quantity":"\u00bc cup","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground cumin","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cayenne pepper","quantity":"\u00bd teaspoon","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground beef","quantity":"2 pounds, 85-90% lean","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":["ground turkey","ground chicken"]},{"name":"dark red kidney beans","quantity":"30 oz can, drained and rinsed","preparation_notes":"drained and rinsed","substitutions":["black beans","pinto beans"]},{"name":"diced tomatoes","quantity":"28 oz can","preparation_notes":"with juice","substitutions":["petite diced tomatoes"]},{"name":"tomato puree","quantity":"28 oz can","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":["crushed tomatoes"]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"6, minced","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":["\u00be teaspoon garlic powder"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon, divided","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"none","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large Dutch oven","Wooden spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat the oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.","tips":"Ensure the oil is hot enough for saut\u00e9ing, look for a shimmer on the surface."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add onions, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, and \u00bd teaspoon salt. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 7 minutes.","tips":"Stir regularly to avoid burning the spices."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.","tips":"Be careful not to burn the garlic."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, cook while breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 10 minutes.","tips":"Break up any large clumps of beef."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Stir in beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato puree, and remaining \u00bd teaspoon salt. Bring to simmer, reduce heat to maintain a slow simmer, cover and cook for 45 minutes.","tips":"Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Remove the lid and continue to simmer uncovered for an additional 45 minutes.","tips":"This will thicken the chili."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.","tips":"Adjust seasoning to your preference."}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["2 tablespoons vegetable oil","2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped","1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and finely chopped","\u00bc cup chili powder","1 tablespoon ground cumin","\u00bd teaspoon cayenne pepper","2 pounds ground beef, 85-90% lean","30 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed","28 oz can diced tomatoes","28 oz can tomato puree","6 garlic cloves, minced","1 teaspoon salt, divided","Black pepper, to taste"],"notes":"For a richer flavor, toppings like shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream can be added before serving. Chili freezes well and can be kept in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating."} |
| Ultimate Carne Asada Fries | Carne asada fries merge tender marinated steak with crispy french... | Tex-Mex, Dinner, Appetizer, Game Day, Mexican, Easy, Comfort Food, Cheesy, Crispy | {"title":"Ultimate Carne Asada Fries","description":"Carne asada fries merge tender marinated steak with crispy french fries, spicy pico de gallo, and creamy guacamole. This dish is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for game days or a Tex-Mex inspired meal.","short_description":"Fries topped with marinated steak, pico, and guacamole.","full_ingredient_list":["4 Russet Potatoes","2 tablespoons Olive Oil","2 tablespoons Cornstarch","1 teaspoon Salt","1 teaspoon Garlic Powder","1\/2 teaspoon Pepper","1\/2 teaspoon Cumin","1 1\/2 Pounds Flank Steak","1\/3 Cup Olive Oil","3 Limes Juiced","1\/2 Cup Cilantro","4 Cloves Garlic Minced","1 teaspoon Cumin","1\/2 teaspoon Chili Powder","Salt\/Pepper to taste","5 Roma tomatoes Diced","1\/2 Sweet Onion Diced","1 Jalapeno Pepper Seeded and Diced","2 teaspoons Lime Juice","Salt to taste","3 Avocados","1\/2 White Onion Diced","1 Clove Garlic Minced","1 Jalapeno Seeds Removed Diced","1 Lime Juiced","Salt to taste","1 Cup Cheddar Cheese Shredded","1\/4 Cup Cilantro Roughly torn","Pickled Jalapenos to taste"],"components":[{"name":"French Fries","ingredients":[{"name":"Russet Potatoes","quantity":"4","preparation_notes":"Cut into fries, around 1\/4 inch thick.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Olive Oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cornstarch","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic Powder","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cumin","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Oven","Large bowl","Baking sheet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add fries to the spice mixture and toss to coat.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Bake fries for 15 minutes per side, flipping halfway through, until crispy.","tips":"Ensure even browning by flipping the fries."}]},{"name":"Carne Asada","ingredients":[{"name":"Flank Steak","quantity":"1 1\/2 Pounds","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Skirt steak"]},{"name":"Olive Oil","quantity":"1\/3 Cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Limes","quantity":"3 Juiced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cilantro","quantity":"1\/2 Cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic","quantity":"4 Cloves Minced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cumin","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Chili Powder","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt\/Pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Ziploc bag","Outdoor grill"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and salt\/pepper in a bowl.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pour marinade into a Ziploc bag, add the steak, and marinate for 1-4 hours.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, then let it rest and slice against the grain.","tips":"Bring steak to room temperature before cooking for even results."}]},{"name":"Pico De Gallo","ingredients":[{"name":"Roma tomatoes","quantity":"5 Diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Sweet Onion","quantity":"1\/2 Diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cilantro","quantity":"1\/4 Cup Roughly chopped","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Jalapeno Pepper","quantity":"1 Seeded and diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Lime Juice","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Medium bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno, lime juice, and salt in a medium bowl. Adjust to taste.","tips":"Adjust lime juice and salt according to your preference."}]},{"name":"Guacamole","ingredients":[{"name":"Avocados","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"Mash in a bowl.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"White Onion","quantity":"1\/2 Diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic","quantity":"1 Clove Minced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Jalapeno","quantity":"1 Seeded, diced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Lime Juice","quantity":"1 Juiced","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Mash avocados in a large bowl, then mix in garlic, onion, jalapeno, lime juice, and salt.","tips":"Add lime juice and salt according to taste."}]},{"name":"Assembly","ingredients":[{"name":"Cheddar Cheese","quantity":"1 Cup Shredded","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cilantro","quantity":"1\/4 Cup Roughly torn","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Pickled Jalapenos","quantity":"As desired","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Cast iron or oven safe skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place fries in a skillet, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until melted.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Top with steak, pico, and guacamole. Garnish with cilantro and pickled jalapenos.","tips":"Serve immediately for best taste and texture."}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"45 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["Tex-Mex","Dinner","Appetizer","Game Day","Mexican","Easy","Comfort Food","Cheesy","Crispy"],"notes":"For best results, ensure steak is sliced against the grain and fries are enjoyed fresh out of the oven.","background":"Carne asada fries are a fusion dish originating from San Diego, known for combining classic Mexican elements with American crispy fries.","nutrition":{"calories":"707","protein":"35g","fat":"43g","carbohydrates":"48g","fiber":"11g","sugar":"5g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with extra lime wedges and hot sauce on the side.","storage":"Store leftovers in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.","dietary_info":["Gluten-Free"],"cooking_tips":["Flip fries halfway through to ensure even browning.","Bring steak to room temperature before cooking for even cooking and a great sear.","Let cooked steak rest before slicing against the grain."],"variations":["Use chicken seasoned with taco spices instead of red meat.","Add feta or queso fresco for a different cheese profile."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Flank steak is known for its flavor and quick cooking time, making it ideal for carne asada.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":8,"sour":3,"bitter":1,"umami":5},"geographic_region":"California, USA","seasonality":"All seasons","cost_estimate":15,"recommended_pairings":["Mexican Lager","Margarita","Horchata"]} |
| Green Chicken Pozole Stew | Enjoy a traditional Mexican stew made with shredded chicken, homi... | Mexican, stew, chicken, hominy, pozole, dinner, comfort food, gluten-free, spicy | {"title":"Green Chicken Pozole Stew","description":"Enjoy a traditional Mexican stew made with shredded chicken, hominy, and a vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos, cilantro, and chiles. This hearty dish is typically garnished with a variety of fresh toppings that add crunch and creaminess.","short_description":"A flavorful green chicken pozole made with vibrant ingredients like tomatillos and cilantro.","full_ingredient_list":["7 cups chicken stock or low-sodium broth","2 cups water","4 chicken breast halves on the bone, with skin","1 pound tomatillos, husked and halved","1 small onion, quartered, plus more for serving","2 poblano chiles, cored, seeded, and quartered","2 jalape\u00f1os, seeded and quartered","4 large garlic cloves, smashed","1\/2 cup cilantro, chopped","1 tablespoon oregano leaves","1\/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste","1\/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste","1 tablespoon vegetable oil","3 (15-ounce) cans of hominy, drained","Iceberg lettuce, finely shredded, for serving","Radish, sliced, for serving","Onion, chopped, for serving","Avocado, diced, for serving","Sour cream, for serving","Tortilla chips, for serving","Lime wedges, for serving"],"components":[{"name":"Chicken Pozole Verde","ingredients":[{"name":"chicken stock or low-sodium broth","quantity":"7 cups"},{"name":"water","quantity":"2 cups"},{"name":"chicken breast halves on the bone, with skin","quantity":"4"},{"name":"tomatillos, husked and halved","quantity":"1 pound"},{"name":"small onion, quartered","quantity":"1, plus more for serving"},{"name":"poblano chiles, cored, seeded, and quartered","quantity":"2"},{"name":"jalape\u00f1os, seeded and quartered","quantity":"2"},{"name":"large garlic cloves, smashed","quantity":"4"},{"name":"cilantro, chopped","quantity":"1\/2 cup"},{"name":"oregano leaves","quantity":"1 tablespoon"},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste"},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"1\/4 teaspoon, plus more to taste"},{"name":"vegetable oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon"},{"name":"hominy, drained","quantity":"3 (15-ounce) cans"}],"tools_and_equipment":["large enameled cast-iron casserole","blender","large deep skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a large enameled cast-iron casserole, bring chicken stock and water to a boil.","tips":"Ensure the stock is at a rolling boil before adding the chicken."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add chicken breasts skin side down, cover, and simmer over very low heat until tender and cooked through, about 25 minutes.","tips":"Do not let the liquid come to a boil to prevent toughening the chicken."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Skim and discard any fat from the cooking liquid and set the liquid aside.","tips":"Use a slotted spoon or a fat separator for best results."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Transfer chicken breasts to a cutting board. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat and discard bones and skin.","tips":"Use forks or your hands for easier shredding."},{"step_number":5,"description":"In a blender, combine tomatillos, quartered onion, poblanos, jalape\u00f1os, garlic, cilantro, and oregano. Pulse until coarsely chopped, scraping down sides.","tips":"You may need to do this in batches depending on your blender size."},{"step_number":6,"description":"With the blender on, add 1 cup of cooking liquid and puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning as needed."},{"step_number":7,"description":"In a large deep skillet, heat vegetable oil until shimmering. Add tomatillo puree and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce turns a deep green, about 12 minutes.","tips":"Stir regularly to avoid sticking."},{"step_number":8,"description":"Pour green sauce into the reserved cooking liquid in the casserole. Add hominy and bring to a simmer over moderate heat. Add shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until heated through.","tips":"Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more stock if needed."},{"step_number":9,"description":"Serve in deep bowls with lettuce, radishes, onion, avocado, sour cream, tortilla chips, and lime wedges as optional garnishes.","tips":"Offer a variety of toppings for guests to customize their bowls."}]}],"prep_time":"45 minutes","cook_time":"30 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 15 minutes","servings":"6 to 8","tags":["Mexican","stew","chicken","hominy","pozole","dinner","comfort food","gluten-free","spicy"],"notes":"Using Mexican oregano provides a distinct citrus note that enhances the flavor. Prepare toppings generously as they add essential texture and taste to the dish.","background":"Pozole is a beloved traditional Mexican dish often served on special occasions and communal gatherings. It comes in various forms, with verde distinguished by its green sauce.","nutrition":{"calories":"400","protein":"35g","fat":"10g","carbohydrates":"45g","fiber":"8g","sugar":"5g"},"serving_suggestions":"Ideal with a side of tortilla chips and a glass of crisp white wine.","storage":"Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.","dietary_info":["gluten-free"],"cooking_tips":["Roast tomatillos and chiles under the broiler for extra depth of flavor."],"variations":["Use pork instead of chicken for a more traditional version.","Add additional jalapenos for more spice.","Substitute cabbage for iceberg lettuce."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Hominy is crucial for texture and authenticity in pozole, providing a chewy contrast to the soft chicken.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":8,"sour":5,"bitter":2,"umami":5},"geographic_region":"Mexico","seasonality":"Winter","sustainability_score":{"score":75,"details":"Using local, organic ingredients like tomatillos and chiles can enhance the sustainability of this dish."},"occasion":"Family dinner","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":20,"recommended_pairings":["un-oaked white wine","sparkling water"]} |
| Crunchy and Cheesy Birria Quesadillas | These Birria Quesadillas feature a crispy exterior and a cheesy i... | Mexican, Dinner, Quesadillas, Birria, Cheese, Comfort Food, Weeknight Meals | {"title":"Crunchy and Cheesy Birria Quesadillas","description":"These Birria Quesadillas feature a crispy exterior and a cheesy interior filled with savory Birria meat and mushrooms. Made with whole wheat tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro, they are perfect for a busy weeknight meal.","short_description":"Crispy Birria Quesadillas with Monterey Jack and mushrooms, ideal for weeknights.","full_ingredient_list":["4 large whole wheat tortillas","1 1\/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese","8 ounces sliced mushrooms","2 cups slow cooker Birria meat","Birria broth","Salt","Pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Birria Quesadillas","ingredients":[{"name":"whole wheat tortillas","quantity":"4 large","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["corn tortillas","low-carb tortillas"]},{"name":"Monterey Jack cheese","quantity":"1 1\/2 cups shredded","preparation_notes":"Grate blocks of cheese for best texture","substitutions":["cheddar cheese","mozzarella"]},{"name":"sliced mushrooms","quantity":"8 ounces","preparation_notes":"Thinly slice","substitutions":[]},{"name":"slow cooker Birria meat","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"Use shredded meat","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Birria broth","quantity":"as needed","preparation_notes":"For dipping tortillas","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Dip or brush each tortilla with Birria broth on both sides and place in the skillet.","tips":"This ensures the tortilla gains flavor and crispiness."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add cheese, sliced mushrooms, and about 1\/4 cup of the Birria meat to one side of the tortilla.","tips":"Be sure to evenly distribute the filling to ensure even cooking."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Fold the tortilla over and toast each side for about 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the outside is crispy.","tips":"Press down gently on the quesadilla with a spatula for even toasting."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Repeat the process with remaining ingredients and tortillas.","tips":""},{"step_number":6,"description":"Cut each quesadilla into sections and serve with leftover Birria broth for dipping.","tips":"Garnish with toppings like avocado, cilantro, and radishes for added flavor."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"10 minutes","total_time":"15 minutes","servings":"4 quesadillas","tags":["Mexican","Dinner","Quesadillas","Birria","Cheese","Comfort Food","Weeknight Meals"],"notes":"These quesadillas are best when eaten fresh, but leftovers can be enjoyed within 3-4 days when stored properly. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.","background":"Birria, originating from Central Mexico, traditionally uses goat meat but varies by region. It is evenly suited to different meats like beef, particularly when adapted into modern dishes like quesadillas.","nutrition":{"calories":"344 kcal","protein":"21 g","fat":"17 g","carbohydrates":"28 g","fiber":"3 g","sugar":"3 g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with a side of guacamole or salsa for a more complete meal.","storage":"Once fully cooled, store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Best reheated on the stovetop.","dietary_info":["Contains dairy","Contains gluten"],"cooking_tips":["Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.","Dip the tortillas generously in Birria broth for enhanced flavor."],"variations":["Try adding jalapenos for a spicy kick.","Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Birria meat is the star, bringing depth and a rich, savory flavor to the quesadillas.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":9,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Central Mexico","seasonality":"All year round","sustainability_score":{"score":70,"details":"Use locally sourced ingredients when possible to reduce the carbon footprint."},"occasion":"Weeknight Dinner","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":15,"recommended_pairings":["Serve with a light Mexican beer","Pair with a simple green salad"]} |
| Simple & Crispy Fried Chicken | A straightforward method to achieve crispy, juicy fried chicken u... | American, Fried Chicken, Comfort Food | {"title":"Simple & Crispy Fried Chicken","description":"A straightforward method to achieve crispy, juicy fried chicken using a milk brine and a unique seasoning mix for a flavorful result.","full_ingredient_list":["3 lb drumsticks or thighs","4 cups whole milk (can substitute with water)","1\/4 cup salt","8 cloves garlic","2 tbsp black peppercorns","3 bay leaves","2 cups flour (can substitute with equal amounts of gluten-free flour)","2 cups cornstarch","2 tbsp kosher salt","1\/2 tbsp white pepper","1 tbsp black pepper","1 tbsp garlic powder","1 tbsp onion powder","1\/2 tbsp cayenne pepper","1 tbsp baking powder","1 cup cold water","Neutral oil for frying"],"components":[{"name":"Brining Solution","ingredients":[{"name":"whole milk","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"can substitute with water","substitutions":["water"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"8 cloves","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black peppercorns","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bay leaves","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Pierce chicken carefully with a knife and brine with milk, salt, garlic, black peppercorns, and bay leaves. Brine for 2-3 hours or overnight for best results.","tips":"Brining enhances flavor and tenderness."}]},{"name":"Seasoning Mix","ingredients":[{"name":"flour","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"can substitute with equal amounts gluten-free flour","substitutions":["Gluten-Free Four \u2013 Bobs Red Mill","King Arthur"]},{"name":"cornstarch","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"white pepper","quantity":"1\/2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic powder","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"onion powder","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cayenne pepper","quantity":"1\/2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"baking powder","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Mixing bowl","Whisk"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and baking powder and whisk until combined.","tips":"Ensure even mixing for consistent flavor."}]},{"name":"Wet Batter","ingredients":[{"name":"seasoning mix","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cold water","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Bowl","Spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Take 1 cup of your seasoning mix and combine in a separate bowl with cold water and mix until smooth.","tips":"The batter should be smooth to coat chicken evenly."}]},{"name":"Frying","ingredients":[{"name":"chicken","quantity":"3 lb drumsticks or thighs","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"neutral oil","quantity":"enough to cover chicken","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable oil","peanut oil","avocado oil","canola oil"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large cast iron pan or dutch oven","Infrared thermometer","Baking sheet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Remove the chicken from the brine and spoon a few tablespoons of brine into the seasoning mix, rubbing together to create small clumps.","tips":"These clumps adhere well to the chicken for added texture."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Dip each piece of chicken in the wet batter, let any excess drip off, then dredge in the seasoning mix, pressing the mix into the chicken until completely coated. Let rest on a baking sheet while heating the oil.","tips":"Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crispiness."},{"step_number":3,"description":"In a large cast iron pan, dutch oven, or heavy bottomed pan, heat oil to 350\u00b0F and fry chicken for 8-12 minutes per batch until the internal temperature reaches 165\u00b0F.","tips":"Use an infrared thermometer to monitor oil temperature."}]}],"prep_time":"3 hours","cook_time":"15 minutes","total_time":"3 hours 15 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["American","Fried Chicken","Comfort Food"],"notes":"Milk or water brining can be done overnight for the best results. Ensure oil remains at a consistent temperature to achieve an optimal crispy texture."} |
| Hearty Celery Root and Vegetable Soup | A chunky and warming vegetable soup filled with celery root, pota... | vegan, soup, comfort food | {"title":"Hearty Celery Root and Vegetable Soup","description":"A chunky and warming vegetable soup filled with celery root, potatoes, carrots, and leeks. Perfect for a cold day with a creamy texture from cashew cream.","prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"55 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 5 minutes","servings":"6 servings","tags":["vegan","soup","comfort food"],"components":[{"name":"Cashew Cream","ingredients":[{"name":"unsalted cashews","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"Softened by simmering","substitutions":[]},{"name":"water","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"low sodium vegetable broth","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"nutritional yeast","quantity":"1 to 1.5 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["small pot","high-powered blender"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place cashews in a small pot with 2 cups of water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes to soften cashews.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Drain and rinse the cashews. Place them in a high-powered blender along with nutritional yeast and vegetable broth.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Cover and blend until smooth. Set aside.","tips":"Adjust thickness by varying the amount of broth."}]},{"name":"Celery Root Soup","ingredients":[{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"For cooking","substitutions":[]},{"name":"leek","quantity":"1 small","preparation_notes":"Cut into thin half-moons, only white and light green parts","substitutions":["white onion","yellow onion"]},{"name":"carrot","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"Peeled and cut small","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"4 cloves","preparation_notes":"Minced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"celery root","quantity":"2 pounds","preparation_notes":"Peeled and cubed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"potatoes","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"Peeled and cubed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"low sodium vegetable broth","quantity":"5 to 6 cups","preparation_notes":"Adjust for thickness","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried thyme","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"Or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"Adjust to taste","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"Adjust to taste","substitutions":[":","ground white pepper"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large pot","immersion blender","heatproof container"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add leek, carrot, and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.","tips":"Ensure leeks are well-rinsed to remove any grime."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add celery root, potatoes, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir and pour in the vegetable broth.","tips":"Use 5 cups of broth for a thicker soup."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Increase to high heat to bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat to simmer. Cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Remove two cups of soup and blend until smooth using an immersion blender. Stir the blend back into the soup.","tips":"Be careful when blending hot liquids."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Stir in the cashew cream or an alternative dairy option if preferred.","tips":"For a creamier soup, use more cashew cream or replace with dairy."}]},{"name":"Toppings","ingredients":[{"name":"croutons","quantity":"optional, to taste","preparation_notes":"For garnish","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh thyme","quantity":"optional, to taste","preparation_notes":"Chopped, for garnish","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[]}],"full_ingredient_list":["1\/2 cup unsalted cashews","2 cups water","1\/2 cup low sodium vegetable broth","1 to 1.5 tablespoons nutritional yeast","2 tablespoons olive oil","1 small leek","1 large carrot","4 cloves garlic","2 pounds celery root","1 pound potatoes","5 to 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth","1 teaspoon dried thyme","1 teaspoon salt","1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper","Croutons (optional)","Fresh thyme (optional)"],"notes":"For a vegan alternative, use cashew cream. If you are not sticking to a plant-based diet, heavy cream or half-and-half can be used instead."} |
| Home-Style Japanese Chicken Curry | A comforting Japanese chicken curry perfect for a family dinner. ... | Japanese, chicken, curry, main dish, comfort food, family meal, savory, 30-minute meal | {"title":"Home-Style Japanese Chicken Curry","description":"A comforting Japanese chicken curry perfect for a family dinner. Features tender pieces of chicken, carrots, and potatoes in a rich and savory curry sauce, offering warmth and flavor ideal for a relaxing meal.","short_description":"A savory Japanese chicken curry with chicken, carrots, potatoes, and curry sauce.","full_ingredient_list":["1 lb chicken thighs, cut into pieces","2 large carrots, sliced","2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed","1 onion, finely chopped","2 cloves garlic, minced","1 tbsp vegetable oil","4 cups chicken broth","2 tbsp curry powder","2 tbsp soy sauce","1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce","2 tbsp flour","Salt to taste","Pepper to taste"],"components":[{"name":"Japanese Chicken Curry","ingredients":[{"name":"chicken thighs","quantity":"1 lb","preparation_notes":"cut into pieces","substitutions":["chicken breast"]},{"name":"carrots","quantity":"2 large","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"potatoes","quantity":"2 medium","preparation_notes":"peeled and cubed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"onion","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":["shallots"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"2 cloves","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"vegetable oil","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["olive oil"]},{"name":"chicken broth","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable broth"]},{"name":"curry powder","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"soy sauce","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["tamari"]},{"name":"Worcestershire sauce","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"flour","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}]},{"name":"Curry Sauce Preparation","ingredients":[],"tools_and_equipment":["large pot","wooden spoon","ladle"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.","tips":"Ensure the pot is hot enough before adding oil to prevent sticking."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add chopped onions and garlic, and saut\u00e9 until the onions are translucent.","tips":"Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Mix in chicken pieces, cooking until browned on all sides.","tips":"Do not overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add sliced carrots and potatoes, stirring to coat with the flavors.","tips":""},{"step_number":5,"description":"Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to incorporate.","tips":"This helps thicken the curry sauce."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Pour in chicken broth, curry powder, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce; stir well.","tips":"Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.","tips":"Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking."},{"step_number":8,"description":"Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.","tips":"Taste the curry as it simmers and adjust seasonings as needed."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"1 hour","total_time":"1 hour 10 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["Japanese","chicken","curry","main dish","comfort food","family meal","savory","30-minute meal"],"notes":"For a milder curry, reduce the amount of curry powder. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if needed.","background":"Japanese curry is adapted from Indian curry and is a popular dish in Japan, known for its thick and mild flavor.","nutrition":{"calories":"400","protein":"25g","fat":"15g","carbohydrates":"42g","fiber":"5g","sugar":"5g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.","storage":"Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.","dietary_info":["contains soy"],"cooking_tips":["Use Japanese curry roux blocks for a more authentic taste if desired."],"variations":["Add apple for sweetness","Include additional vegetables like peas or corn"],"ingredient_spotlight":"Curry powder adds warmth and distinct spiciness, creating the characteristic flavor of the dish.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":7,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":8},"geographic_region":"Japan","seasonality":"All year round","sustainability_score":{"score":70,"details":"Chicken typically has a moderate environmental impact."},"occasion":"Family dinner","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":12,"recommended_pairings":["green tea","light lager"]} |
| Creamy Corn Chowder | This easy corn chowder showcases the sweet flavors of summer corn... | soup, chowder, corn, comfort food, vegetarian | {"title":"Creamy Corn Chowder","description":"This easy corn chowder showcases the sweet flavors of summer corn, perfect year-round with fresh or frozen corn.","prep_time":"15 mins","cook_time":"25 mins","total_time":"40 mins","servings":"4 servings","tags":["soup","chowder","corn","comfort food","vegetarian"],"notes":"Frozen corn can be used instead of fresh corn. Puree two cups of frozen corn with the milk, and add the rest to the soup later for a fresher taste. For a rich pairing, consider serving with a full-bodied Chardonnay.","full_ingredient_list":["2 tablespoons butter","4 scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated)","1 red bell pepper, chopped","4 ribs celery, chopped","1 pound boiling potatoes, peeled and diced","4 cups fresh corn kernels, divided","1 bay leaf","1 (32-ounce) can low-sodium chicken broth","2 cups milk","2 teaspoons kosher salt","1\/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper","Sour cream (optional, for serving)"],"components":[{"name":"Corn Chowder Base","ingredients":[{"name":"butter","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"melted in pan","substitutions":["olive oil"]},{"name":"scallions","quantity":"4","preparation_notes":"chopped, white bulbs separated from green tops","substitutions":["shallots"]},{"name":"red bell pepper","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":["green bell pepper"]},{"name":"celery","quantity":"4 ribs","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":["fennel"]},{"name":"boiling potatoes","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"peeled and diced","substitutions":["russet potatoes"]},{"name":"corn kernels","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"divided, fresh or frozen","substitutions":["canned corn"]},{"name":"bay leaf","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"low-sodium chicken broth","quantity":"32-ounce can","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable broth"]},{"name":"milk","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["cream"]},{"name":"kosher salt","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"1\/4 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"freshly ground","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large saucepan","blender or food processor"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Melt butter in a large saucepan over moderately low heat, then add scallion bulbs, red bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften, about 10 minutes.","tips":"Saute vegetables gently to prevent burning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add potatoes, 2 cups of corn, bay leaf, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.","tips":"Ensure potatoes are cut into even pieces for uniform cooking."},{"step_number":3,"description":"In a blender or food processor, puree the remaining 2 cups of corn with the milk until smooth.","tips":"Blend until the mixture is creamy."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Stir the corn puree into the soup along with black pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 to 10 minutes.","tips":"Adjust seasoning if needed."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Remove the bay leaf and stir in scallion greens before serving. Add a dollop of sour cream if desired.","tips":"Serve hot and enjoy with optional toppings."}]}]} |
| Traditional Shepherd's Pie with Mashed Potato Topping | A comforting dish featuring a savory meat base covered with cream... | Classic, Comfort Food, Dinner, Irish, Savory | {"title":"Traditional Shepherd's Pie with Mashed Potato Topping","description":"A comforting dish featuring a savory meat base covered with creamy mashed potatoes, baked to perfection.","prep_time":"20 minutes","cook_time":"50 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 10 minutes","servings":"6 servings","tags":["Classic","Comfort Food","Dinner","Irish","Savory"],"notes":"If preferred, use ground turkey or another meat substitute. Optional to omit corn or peas.","full_ingredient_list":["2 tablespoons olive oil","1 cup chopped yellow onion","1 lb. 90% lean ground beef or ground lamb","2 teaspoons dried parsley leaves","1 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves","1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves","1\/2 teaspoon salt","1\/2 teaspoon ground black pepper","1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce","2 garlic cloves, minced","2 tablespoons all-purpose flour","2 tablespoons tomato paste","1 cup beef broth","1 cup frozen mixed peas and carrots","1\/2 cup frozen corn kernels","1.5 - 2 lbs. russet potatoes, peeled and cubed","8 tablespoons unsalted butter","1\/3 cup half & half","1\/2 teaspoon garlic powder","1\/4 cup parmesan cheese"],"components":[{"name":"Meat Filling","ingredients":[{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onion","quantity":"1 cup, chopped","preparation_notes":"Chop before cooking","substitutions":[]},{"name":"90% lean ground beef or ground lamb","quantity":"1 lb.","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried parsley leaves","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried rosemary leaves","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried thyme leaves","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground black pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Worcestershire sauce","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"2, minced","preparation_notes":"Mince before adding","substitutions":[]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"tomato paste","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"beef broth","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"frozen mixed peas and carrots","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["1\/2 cup frozen peas and 1\/2 cup frozen sliced carrots"]},{"name":"frozen corn kernels","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large skillet","Wooden spoon","Measuring spoons","Measuring cup"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. Add chopped onion and saut\u00e9 for 5 minutes.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Add parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is browned.","tips":"Break the meat apart using a wooden spoon."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Stir in Worcestershire sauce and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Mix in flour and tomato paste, stirring until incorporated.","tips":"Ensure no clumps of tomato paste remain."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Pour in beef broth, add frozen peas, carrots, and corn. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes while stirring.","tips":"Simmer until the mixture thickens."}]},{"name":"Potato Topping","ingredients":[{"name":"russet potatoes","quantity":"1.5 - 2 lbs., peeled and cubed","preparation_notes":"Peel and cut into 1-inch cubes","substitutions":[]},{"name":"unsalted butter","quantity":"8 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"half & half","quantity":"1\/3 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic powder","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground black pepper","quantity":"1\/4 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"parmesan cheese","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large pot","Colander","Potato masher","Measuring spoons","Measuring cup"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, bring to a boil then simmer until fork-tender (10-15 min).","tips":"Check potatoes for doneness using a fork."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Drain potatoes and return them to the hot pot. Let them rest to evaporate excess moisture.","tips":"Leave the pot on low heat for 1 minute to help moisture evaporate."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add butter, half & half, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.","tips":"Use a potato masher for best results."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Stir in parmesan cheese until fully combined.","tips":"Ensure the cheese is mixed evenly."}]},{"name":"Assembly and Baking","tools_and_equipment":["9x9 inch baking dish","Spoon","Oven","Rimmed baking sheet (optional)"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Spread meat mixture evenly in a 9x9 inch baking dish.","tips":"Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.","tips":"Smooth the top with the spoon."},{"step_number":4,"description":"If the dish is full, place on a rimmed baking sheet to catch overflow. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbling.","tips":"Check halfway to see if edges are browning."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.","tips":"This helps to firm up the layers."}]}]} |
| Classic Italian Chicken Parmesan | A crispy and cheesy chicken dish with homemade marinara sauce, pe... | Italian, Comfort Food, Dinner | {"title":"Classic Italian Chicken Parmesan","description":"A crispy and cheesy chicken dish with homemade marinara sauce, perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.","full_ingredient_list":["3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil","1 small yellow onion, finely chopped","6 cloves garlic, finely chopped","1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes","2 large sprigs basil","1 c panko bread crumbs","1 tsp garlic powder","2 c finely grated Parmesan","3\/4 c all-purpose flour","2 large eggs","6 (1\/4\"-thick) boneless, skinless chicken cutlets (about 1 1\/2 lb total)","1 c shredded mozzarella","1 c vegetable or canola oil","Chopped fresh basil","Kosher salt","Freshly ground black pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Marinara Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"extra-virgin olive oil","quantity":"3 Tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onion","quantity":"1 small, finely chopped","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"6 cloves, finely chopped","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"crushed tomatoes","quantity":"1 (28-oz) can","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"basil","quantity":"2 large sprigs","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Kosher salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Medium pot","Spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a medium pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onion and garlic, stir to combine, and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Stir in crushed tomatoes and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors have melded, about 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then discard basil.","tips":"Avoid burning by stirring occasionally."}]},{"name":"Chicken","ingredients":[{"name":"panko bread crumbs","quantity":"1 c","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic powder","quantity":"1 tsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"finely grated Parmesan","quantity":"2 c, divided","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"3\/4 c","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"eggs","quantity":"2 large","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"boneless, skinless chicken cutlets","quantity":"6 (1\/4\"-thick)","preparation_notes":"about 1.5 lb total","substitutions":[]},{"name":"shredded mozzarella","quantity":"1 c","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"vegetable or canola oil","quantity":"1 c","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Chopped fresh basil","quantity":"for serving","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Kosher salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Freshly ground black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Shallow bowls","Meat mallet","Large heavy pot","Wire rack","Baking sheet","Deep-fry or instant-read thermometer"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a shallow bowl, combine panko, garlic powder, and 1 cup Parmesan. Into another shallow bowl, pour flour. In a third shallow bowl, beat eggs with 1 tablespoon water.","tips":"Set up a dredging station for efficient breading."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pat chicken dry; season with salt and pepper. Dip into flour, shaking off excess, then into egg, then into panko mixture, gently pressing to adhere.","tips":"Ensure even coating for optimal crispiness."},{"step_number":3,"description":"In a small bowl, mix mozzarella and remaining 1 cup Parmesan.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Heat broiler. In a large, heavy pot over medium heat, heat oil until a deep-fry or instant-read thermometer registers 350\u00b0. Set a wire rack on a baking sheet.","tips":"Maintain oil temperature for consistent frying."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Working one at a time, fry chicken until one side is golden brown, about 1 minute. Flip and continue to fry until golden brown on the other side, about 1 minute more. Transfer to prepared rack. Repeat with remaining chicken.","tips":"Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Spoon some marinara over chicken. Sprinkle with cheese mixture. Broil until cheese is melted and brown spots form, about 2 minutes.","tips":"Keep a close eye to prevent burning."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Divide chicken among plates. Top with basil. Serve with remaining marinara on the side.","tips":"Present attractively with fresh basil garnish."}]}],"prep_time":"30 minutes","cook_time":"1 hour","total_time":"1 hour 30 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["Italian","Comfort Food","Dinner"],"notes":"Serve with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple vegetable for a complete meal."} |
| Savory Hawaiian Loco Moco | Enjoy a hearty Hawaiian classic with juicy hamburger patties serv... | Hawaiian, Quick, Comfort Food | {"title":"Savory Hawaiian Loco Moco","description":"Enjoy a hearty Hawaiian classic with juicy hamburger patties served over rice, topped with rich mushroom gravy and a runny fried egg. Perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner.","full_ingredient_list":["1\/2 peeled small diced sweet onion","2 finely minced cloves of garlic","2 pounds 80\/20 ground beef","2 tablespoons soy sauce","2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce","2 tablespoons oil","8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms","3 tablespoons all-purpose flour","2 cups beef stock","5 eggs","5 cups cooked jasmine rice","1\/4 cups sliced green onions","coarse salt","fresh cracked pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Hamburger Patties and Rice","ingredients":[{"name":"sweet onion","quantity":"1\/2","preparation_notes":"peeled and small diced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"finely minced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground beef","quantity":"2 pounds","preparation_notes":"80\/20","substitutions":[]},{"name":"soy sauce","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["coconut aminos"]},{"name":"Worcestershire sauce","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["half the amount of balsamic vinegar"]},{"name":"oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["ghee","lard","tallow","butter"]},{"name":"jasmine rice","quantity":"5 cups","preparation_notes":"cooked","substitutions":["any long-grain rice"]},{"name":"green onions","quantity":"1\/4 cups","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large bowl","frying pan","stove"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Mix the onion, garlic, beef, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce in a large bowl. Form into 5 patties and season with salt and pepper.","tips":"Test a bit of the mixture by frying a small piece to check seasoning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until well browned. Set aside.","tips":"Patties do not need to be fully cooked."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Prepare the rice as directed, fluff it, and keep warm.","tips":"Use 1 1\/4 parts water to 1 part rice for fluffier results."}]},{"name":"Mushroom Gravy and Eggs","ingredients":[{"name":"cremini mushrooms","quantity":"8 ounces","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":["button mushrooms"]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["bread flour"]},{"name":"beef stock","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["brodo"]},{"name":"eggs","quantity":"5","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"coarse","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"fresh cracked","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large frying pan","small frying pan","stove"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Using the same frying pan, add mushrooms and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until browned slightly.","tips":"Do not clean the pan after cooking patties; use the residue for added flavor."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Stir in flour to make a roux. Slowly add in beef stock and the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce. Cook until gravy thickens.","tips":"If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more stock."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Return patties to the pan to heat through in the gravy. Use a small frying pan to fry eggs sunny-side-up in the reserved beef fat.","tips":"Drain excess oil from the first pan into the second to fry the eggs."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Assemble the dish by placing rice on the plate, add a beef patty with gravy, top with a fried egg, and sprinkle with green onions.","tips":"Ensure the yolk is runny for the best flavor."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"25 minutes","total_time":"30 minutes","servings":"5","tags":["Hawaiian","Quick","Comfort Food"],"notes":"Prepare the components up to 2 hours in advance and keep them warm for easier assembly. Keep meat and gravy refrigerated separately for up to 5 days."} |
| Hearty Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie | A comforting homemade chicken pot pie featuring a double butter c... | comfort food, homemade, make-ahead | {"title":"Hearty Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie","description":"A comforting homemade chicken pot pie featuring a double butter crust filled with tender chicken and vegetables in rich gravy.","full_ingredient_list":["1 pound (450g) skinless boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed","1 cup (about 130g) sliced carrots","1\/2 cup (about 40g) sliced celery","1\/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter","1\/3 cup (45g) chopped yellow onion","1 teaspoon minced garlic","1\/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour","1 and 3\/4 cups (420ml) chicken broth or stock","2\/3 cup (160ml) half-and-half","1 cup (125g) frozen peas","1 egg","1 tablespoon (15ml) milk","3\/4 teaspoon salt","1\/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper","1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves","optional: sprigs of fresh thyme for garnish"],"components":[{"name":"Filling and Gravy","ingredients":[{"name":"skinless boneless chicken breast or thighs","quantity":"1 pound (450g)","preparation_notes":"cubed","substitutions":["turkey"]},{"name":"carrots","quantity":"1 cup (about 130g)","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"celery","quantity":"1\/2 cup (about 40g)","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"unsalted butter","quantity":"1\/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"yellow onion","quantity":"1\/3 cup (45g)","preparation_notes":"chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"1\/3 cup (41g)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"chicken broth or stock","quantity":"1 and 3\/4 cups (420ml)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable broth"]},{"name":"half-and-half","quantity":"2\/3 cup (160ml)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["half heavy cream and half whole milk","all whole milk"]},{"name":"frozen peas","quantity":"1 cup (125g)","preparation_notes":"do not thaw or cook before use","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"3\/4 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"freshly ground","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried thyme leaves","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Large pot","Large skillet","Whisk"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"In a large pot, combine chicken, carrots, and celery. Add water to cover and bring to a boil. Allow to boil for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.","tips":"Use enough water to cover the chicken and vegetables."},{"step_number":2,"description":"In a skillet, cook butter, onions, and garlic over medium heat until onions are translucent. Whisk in flour, salt, pepper, thyme, broth, and half-and-half, cooking until thickened into a gravy.","tips":"Keep whisking to prevent lumps."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Preheat oven to 425\u00b0F (218\u00b0C).","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Roll out the bottom pie crust on a floured surface. Place in a 9-inch pie dish.","tips":"Make sure crust is smooth and tucked into all edges."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Layer in chicken and vegetable mixture, add peas, and pour gravy on top.","tips":"Spread ingredients evenly."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Roll out top pie crust; place over filling. Seal and crimp edges, slice small slits in top for steam to escape. Brush with egg wash.","tips":"Use a sharp knife for clean slits."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Bake for 32\u201338 minutes until golden brown. Cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.","tips":"Cover edges with foil if browning too quickly."}]},{"name":"Pie Crust","ingredients":[{"name":"Homemade Pie Crust or All Butter Pie Crust","quantity":"Enough for a top and bottom crust","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["store-bought pie crust","puff pastry"]},{"name":"egg","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"beaten for egg wash","substitutions":[]},{"name":"milk","quantity":"1 tablespoon (15ml)","preparation_notes":"to mix with egg for egg wash","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Rolling Pin","Pastry Brush","9-inch Pie Dish"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Prepare pie crusts and chill for at least 2 hours before using.","tips":"Crust can be made and chilled up to 5 days in advance."},{"step_number":2,"description":"After chilling, roll out one disc into a 12-inch circle and fit into pie dish; roll out the second disc for the top crust.","tips":"Keep second disc chilled until ready to use."}]}],"prep_time":"2 hours 50 minutes","cook_time":"35 minutes","total_time":"3 hours 25 minutes","servings":"8","tags":["comfort food","homemade","make-ahead"],"notes":"For make-ahead options, prepare the filling and gravy a day in advance or freeze the entire assembled pie. Reheat leftovers as desired."} |
| Comforting French Onion Soup | A warm and inviting homemade French onion soup recipe, rich with ... | French-inspired, vegetarian-friendly, comfort food | {"title":"Comforting French Onion Soup","description":"A warm and inviting homemade French onion soup recipe, rich with caramelized onions and topped with cheesy toast.","full_ingredient_list":["4 pounds yellow onions","3 tablespoons butter","4 cloves garlic, minced","3 tablespoons flour","1\/2 cup dry white wine","6 cups beef stock or veggie stock","1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce","1 bay leaf","3 sprigs fresh thyme","baguette","grated or sliced cheese (Gruyere, Asiago, Swiss, Gouda or Mozzarella)","fine sea salt","freshly-cracked black pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Soup Base","ingredients":[{"name":"yellow onions","quantity":"4 pounds","preparation_notes":"peeled and thinly sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"butter","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegan butter","olive oil"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"4 cloves","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"flour","quantity":"3 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["gluten-free flour blend"]},{"name":"dry white wine","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"beef stock","quantity":"6 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["veggie stock"]},{"name":"Worcestershire sauce","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bay leaf","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh thyme","quantity":"3 sprigs","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["1 teaspoon dried thyme"]},{"name":"fine sea salt","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"to taste","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly-cracked black pepper","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"to taste","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large stockpot","wooden spoon"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Melt butter in a large heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 30 minutes).","tips":"Stir more frequently near the end of cooking to prevent burning."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add minced garlic to the pot and saut\u00e9 for 2 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for an additional minute.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Pour in white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add stock, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for at least 10 minutes.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper."}]},{"name":"Cheesy Toast Topping","ingredients":[{"name":"baguette","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"cheese","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"grated or sliced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fine sea salt","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"to taste","substitutions":[]},{"name":"freshly-cracked black pepper","quantity":"","preparation_notes":"to taste","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["oven","baking sheet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and place on a baking sheet.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Bake for 6-8 minutes until toasted and golden. Set aside.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Switch oven to broil. Once soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted baguette slices and desired amount of cheese.","tips":"Keep a close eye to ensure the cheese does not burn."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Place bowls on a baking sheet about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for 2-4 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.","tips":""}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"50 minutes","total_time":"1 hour","servings":"4-6","tags":["French-inspired","vegetarian-friendly","comfort food"],"notes":"Feel free to make the soup vegan by using vegan butter, vegetable stock, and vegan cheese."} |
| Classic Beef Bourguignon by Karina | Enjoy tender beef in a luxurious red wine sauce with this adapted... | French cuisine, comfort food, family dinner | {"title":"Classic Beef Bourguignon by Karina","description":"Enjoy tender beef in a luxurious red wine sauce with this adapted version of Julia Child's renowned Beef Bourguignon. Includes various methods for cooking, including slow cooker and pressure cooker options.","prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"3 hours","total_time":"3 hours 15 minutes","servings":"8","tags":["French cuisine","comfort food","family dinner"],"components":[{"name":"Beef & Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"extra-virgin olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bacon","quantity":"6 ounces","preparation_notes":"roughly chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"beef brisket","quantity":"3 pounds","preparation_notes":"trimmed of fat, cut into 2-inch chunks","substitutions":["chuck steak","stewing beef"]},{"name":"carrot","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"sliced \u00bd-inch thick","substitutions":[]},{"name":"white onion","quantity":"1 large","preparation_notes":"diced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"6 cloves","preparation_notes":"minced, divided","substitutions":[]},{"name":"flour","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"pearl onions","quantity":"12 small","preparation_notes":"optional","substitutions":[]},{"name":"red wine","quantity":"3 cups","preparation_notes":"Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Chianti recommended","substitutions":["2 cups wine, 3 cups beef stock"]},{"name":"beef stock","quantity":"2-3 cups","preparation_notes":"adjust based on wine used","substitutions":[]},{"name":"tomato paste","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"beef bouillon cube","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"crushed","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh thyme","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"finely chopped","substitutions":[]},{"name":"fresh parsley","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"finely chopped, divided","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bay leaves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"white mushrooms","quantity":"1 pound","preparation_notes":"small or quartered","substitutions":[]},{"name":"butter","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"coarse salt","quantity":"1 pinch","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"ground pepper","quantity":"1 pinch","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large dutch oven or heavy pot","slotted spoon","large dish","paper towels","colander"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat your oven to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C). Warm the olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium heat. Add the bacon and fry until crisp, approximately 3 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pat dry the beef with paper towels and sear in batches in the hot oil\/bacon fat until browned on all sides. Transfer beef to the dish with the bacon.","tips":"Ensure beef is dry for a good sear."},{"step_number":3,"description":"In the same pot, saut\u00e9 the carrots and onions until softened, about 3 minutes. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.","tips":"Avoid burning the garlic by keeping it moving."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Drain any excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot. Return the beef and bacon to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Toss beef with the flour and cook for 4-5 minutes.","tips":"Ensure flour coats the beef evenly for proper browning."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Add the pearl onions, wine, and enough beef stock to just cover the meat. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed bouillon, and herbs. Bring to a simmer on the stove.","tips":"Avoid boiling which can toughen the meat."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Cover with a lid and place in the lower part of the oven. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is tender.","tips":"Adjust oven temperature to maintain a gentle simmer."},{"step_number":7,"description":"In the last 5 minutes of cooking, prepare the mushrooms: Heat butter in a skillet. Once foamy, add remaining garlic and mushrooms, cooking until browned, about 5 minutes. Season if desired and set aside.","tips":"Avoid overcrowding the pan for even browning."},{"step_number":8,"description":"Strain the liquid from the pot into a large bowl using a colander. Set pot contents aside and discard herb remnants. Return beef mixture to the pot, adding browned mushrooms.","tips":"Use a fat separator for excess fat removal."},{"step_number":9,"description":"Simmer the sauce standalone to thicken, straining off any excess fat. Add or reduce stock for desired consistency. Adjust seasoning, then pour sauce over the beef and vegetables.","tips":"The spoon test ensures the right sauce thickness."},{"step_number":10,"description":"For immediate serving, simmer the beef bourguignon for 2-3 minutes to heat. For serving later, allow the pot to cool, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.","tips":"Flavors improve overnight."}]}],"full_ingredient_list":["1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil","6 ounces bacon, roughly chopped","3 pounds beef brisket, trimmed of fat, cut into 2-inch chunks","1 large carrot, sliced \u00bd-inch thick","1 large white onion, diced","6 cloves garlic, minced, divided","2 tablespoons flour","12 small pearl onions, optional","3 cups red wine, Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Chianti recommended","2-3 cups beef stock","2 tablespoons tomato paste","1 beef bouillon cube, crushed","1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped","2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, divided","2 bay leaves","1 pound white mushrooms, small or quartered","2 tablespoons butter","1 pinch coarse salt","1 pinch ground pepper"],"notes":"This version of beef bourguignon offers various cooking methods to suit your kitchen tools. Adjust wine and stock according to your taste or dietary preferences."} |
| Authentic Mexican Chicken Tinga | An authentic recipe for Chicken Tinga or Tinga de Pollo, a tradit... | Mexican, Chicken, Spicy, Main Course, Chipotle, Authentic, Comfort Food, Gluten Free | {"title":"Authentic Mexican Chicken Tinga","description":"An authentic recipe for Chicken Tinga or Tinga de Pollo, a traditional Mexican dish featuring shredded chicken in a savory and spicy tomato-chipotle sauce. Perfect for tacos, tostadas, and more, this versatile dish brings the rich flavors of Mexico to your kitchen.","short_description":"Mexican Chicken Tinga with chipotle tomato sauce.","full_ingredient_list":["1 \u00bd pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs","2 garlic cloves","1 small onion, cut in quarters","2 bay leaves","\u00bc teaspoon dried Mexican oregano","1 teaspoon salt","2 cups water or low sodium chicken stock","5 tablespoons vegetable oil","2 large onions, thinly sliced","4-5 Roma plum tomatoes or 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes","7 ounces can of Chipotle chiles in Adobo sauce","\u00bc teaspoon black pepper","\u00bc teaspoon dried thyme","\u00bc teaspoon dried marjoram","Salt and pepper to taste"],"components":[{"name":"Cook the Chicken","ingredients":[{"name":"boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs","quantity":"1 \u00bd pounds","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"onion","quantity":"1 small, cut in quarters","preparation_notes":"cut in quarters","substitutions":[]},{"name":"bay leaves","quantity":"2","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried Mexican oregano","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"water or low sodium chicken stock","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"or more to cover the chicken","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Pot"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Bring a pot of salty water to a boil and add the chicken breast.","tips":"Add onion, garlic, bay leaves, oregano, and salt. If using chicken stock, reduce salt."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Simmer chicken until cooked through, approximately 12-15 minutes, skimming off any foam.","tips":""}]},{"name":"Cook the Onions","ingredients":[{"name":"vegetable oil","quantity":"5 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"like sunflower, canola, or olive oil","substitutions":[]},{"name":"onions","quantity":"2 large, thinly sliced","preparation_notes":"use either sweet, white, yellow or red onions","substitutions":[]},{"name":"garlic cloves","quantity":"2-3","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic.","tips":"Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes."}]},{"name":"Prepare the Chipotle Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"Roma plum tomatoes or crushed tomatoes","quantity":"4-5 or 1 can (28 ounces)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Chipotle chiles in Adobo sauce","quantity":"7 ounces can","preparation_notes":"use less if preferred less spicy","substitutions":[]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 \u00bd teaspoon or to taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried Mexican oregano","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried thyme","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"dried marjoram","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"ground","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Blender or food processor"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Simmer tomatoes in a saucepan with water until softened, then blend with chipotle chiles, salt, and pepper.","tips":"Adjust seasoning to taste."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pour blended tomatoes over cooked onions, add oregano, marjoram, thyme, and black pepper.","tips":"Simmer sauce until thickened, about 7-8 minutes."}]},{"name":"Combine and Finish","ingredients":[],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Shred cooked chicken with two forks.","tips":"Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Mix shredded chicken into the chipotle sauce, simmer briefly.","tips":"Serve with rice or on warm tortillas."}]}],"prep_time":"15 minutes","cook_time":"45 minutes","total_time":"60 minutes","servings":"6 servings","tags":["Mexican","Chicken","Spicy","Main Course","Chipotle","Authentic","Comfort Food","Gluten Free"],"notes":"Leftover tinga can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. The sauce can be made ahead and frozen separately. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.","background":"Tinga is a traditional Mexican dish from Puebla, combining Spanish and Mexican influences. It is flavorful and versatile, making it a staple in Mexican cuisine.","nutrition":{"calories":"405","protein":"23g","fat":"29g","carbohydrates":"13g","fiber":"4g","sugar":"5g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve over rice or in tortillas with toppings like avocado and cheese.","storage":"Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.","dietary_info":["Gluten Free"],"cooking_tips":["Do not skip the chipotle peppers for authentic tinga flavor.","Adjust spice level to taste by modifying the number of chiles."],"variations":["Substitute turkey for chicken for a different take.","Serve as a mix inside burritos or tortas."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Chipotle peppers provide the distinct smoky flavor critical to authentic tinga.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":8,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Mexico","seasonality":"Year-round","occasion":"Suitable for gatherings, picnic, Taco Tuesday, or Cinco de Mayo.","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":15,"recommended_pairings":["Mexican Rice","Guacamole","Refried Beans"]} |
| Slow Cooker Open-Faced Roast Beef Sandwich | This delectable open-faced roast beef sandwich is a comfort food ... | comfort food, crockpot, beef, sandwich, dinner, hearty, slow cooker, easy | {"title":"Slow Cooker Open-Faced Roast Beef Sandwich","description":"This delectable open-faced roast beef sandwich is a comfort food classic, combining crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, and tender slow-cooked beef, sprinkled with cheese and au jus for a hearty meal.","short_description":"A comforting roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and cheese.","full_ingredient_list":["5 pounds chuck or rump beef roast","4 ounces au jus seasoning mix","4 ounces dry Italian salad dressing mix","32 ounces low-sodium beef broth","4 cups mashed potatoes","8 slices thick and crusty bread (e.g., Texas Toast)","1\/2 cup freshly shredded gruyere cheese","Salt, to taste","Black pepper, to taste","Nonstick cooking spray"],"components":[{"name":"Roast Beef and Au Jus","ingredients":[{"name":"beef roast","quantity":"5 pounds","preparation_notes":"Use chuck or rump cut.","substitutions":["sirloin roast"]},{"name":"au jus seasoning mix","quantity":"4 ounces","preparation_notes":"2 packages","substitutions":["gravy mix"]},{"name":"dry Italian salad dressing mix","quantity":"4 ounces","preparation_notes":"2 packages","substitutions":["Italian seasoning"]},{"name":"low-sodium beef broth","quantity":"32 ounces","preparation_notes":"Use boxed or canned broth.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"nonstick cooking spray","quantity":"as needed","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Crockpot"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Spray your crockpot with nonstick spray. Place the beef roast inside and sprinkle with the au jus seasoning and Italian dressing mixes."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pour the beef broth over the roast. Cook on high for 6-8 hours or until tender."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Once cooked, strain the broth into a bowl and reserve it. Shred or slice the beef into bite-sized sections, discarding fat and gristle."}]},{"name":"Mashed Potatoes and Bread","ingredients":[{"name":"mashed potatoes","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["mashed cauliflower"]},{"name":"bread","quantity":"8 slices","preparation_notes":"Thick and crusty, like Texas Toast.","substitutions":["sourdough bread"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Broiler or toaster"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Prepare mashed potatoes according to your preferred recipe."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Toast the bread slices until golden brown. Broil for 2-4 minutes for extra thickness."}]},{"name":"Assemble Sandwiches","ingredients":[{"name":"freshly shredded gruyere cheese","quantity":"1\/2 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Swiss cheese"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"Optional.","substitutions":[]},{"name":"black pepper","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"Optional.","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Knife","Fork"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place a slice of toasted bread on a plate. Top with a portion of mashed potatoes."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add a generous portion of shredded or sliced beef over the potatoes. Drizzle with reserved au jus.","tips":"Top with gruyere cheese at this step."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Season with salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot with a knife and fork."}]}],"prep_time":"30 minutes","cook_time":"8 hours","total_time":"8 hours 30 minutes","servings":"8 sandwiches","tags":["comfort food","crockpot","beef","sandwich","dinner","hearty","slow cooker","easy"],"notes":"Leftovers taste great cold and can be stored in separate containers to avoid sogginess.","background":"The open-faced roast beef sandwich is a classic comfort dish often enjoyed in home kitchens and diners.","nutrition":{"calories":"769","protein":"64g","fat":"37g","carbohydrates":"44g","fiber":"3g","sugar":"3g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with a side of baked beans, potato wedges, or spicy broccoli.","storage":"Store the beef and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.","dietary_info":["gluten","dairy"],"cooking_tips":["Do not assemble sandwiches until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.","Use nonstick spray to prevent sticking in the crockpot."],"variations":["Use mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option.","Try different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for variety."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Gruyere cheese adds a nutty, creamy flavor that complements the rich meat and potatoes.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":8,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"American","seasonality":"Best enjoyed in cooler weather but great year-round.","sustainability_score":{"score":75,"details":"Using local beef and bread can help minimize the carbon footprint."},"occasion":"Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":30,"recommended_pairings":["Red wine","Traditional coleslaw"]} |
| Anthony Bourdain Inspired Mortadella Sandwich | This sandwich features crispy fried mortadella, melty cheese, and... | sandwich, easy, quick, lunch, dinner, Brazilian, Italian, Anthony Bourdain, comfort food | {"title":"Anthony Bourdain Inspired Mortadella Sandwich","description":"This sandwich features crispy fried mortadella, melty cheese, and a toasted bun with mayo and mustard. Inspired by Anthony Bourdain, this adaptation offers a flavorful experience drawing from Brazilian and Italian influences.","short_description":"A heavenly sandwich with fried mortadella, cheese, mayo, and mustard on a toasted bun.","full_ingredient_list":["1\/2 lb mortadella, thinly sliced","1 tablespoon neutral oil","3 slices white American cheese (or Provolone)","1 kaiser bun","1 tablespoon mayo","1 tablespoon dijon mustard"],"components":[{"name":"Mortadella Sandwich","ingredients":[{"name":"mortadella","quantity":"1\/2 lb","preparation_notes":"thinly sliced","substitutions":["regular bologna"]},{"name":"neutral oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"white American cheese","quantity":"3 slices","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Provolone"]},{"name":"kaiser bun","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["sourdough","Portuguese water roll"]},{"name":"mayo","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Kewpie Mayo"]},{"name":"dijon mustard","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["yellow mustard"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["cast iron skillet","flat top skillet"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat a cast iron skillet or flat top skillet over high heat.","tips":"A griddle function works as well."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Divide the mortadella into three clumps, ensuring air pockets between slices.","tips":"Fold and clump each slice for the desired texture."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add oil to the hot pan and place the mortadella piles. Let it brown for a minute, then flip.","tips":"Aim for a golden, crispy crust."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add a slice of cheese to each pile after flipping.","tips":"Ensure even melting by covering with a lid briefly."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Toast the bun halves by moving them around the pan to soak up oil. Remove once slightly crusted.","tips":"Do in the same pan for flavor."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Assemble the sandwich by smearing mayo on one half of the bun, placing the cheese-covered meat stack, then the mustard on the top bun.","tips":"Slice sandwich down the middle before serving."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"5 minutes","total_time":"10 minutes","servings":"1 sandwich","tags":["sandwich","easy","quick","lunch","dinner","Brazilian","Italian","Anthony Bourdain","comfort food"],"notes":"This recipe pairs excellently with a cold beer or sides like salads or soups.","background":"This sandwich is inspired by Anthony Bourdain\u2019s culinary exploration of Brazilian street food and its Italian influences, particularly from Sao Paulos Bar do Man\u00e9.","nutrition":{"calories":"850 kcal","protein":"35 g","fat":"70 g","carbohydrates":"40 g","fiber":"2 g","sugar":"6 g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with a cold beer or alongside crispy salads or hearty soups.","storage":"Best consumed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day and reheated in a skillet.","dietary_info":["contains dairy","contains gluten","contains pork"],"cooking_tips":["Use a cast iron pan for better heat retention."],"variations":["Use Provolone cheese for a more Italian flavor."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Mortadella is central, providing a rich, seasoned meatiness to the sandwich.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":8,"sour":2,"bitter":1,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Brazil","seasonality":"Year-round","sustainability_score":{"score":70,"details":"Primarily depends on sourcing local or sustainably produced meat."},"occasion":"Lunch or casual dinner","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["cold beer","crispy salad","tortellini soup"]} |
| Japanese Katsu Curry with Chicken Cutlet | Katsu curry is a Japanese dish consisting of curry served with a ... | Japanese, Curry, Chicken, Main Dish, Comfort Food, Weeknight Dinner | {"title":"Japanese Katsu Curry with Chicken Cutlet","description":"Katsu curry is a Japanese dish consisting of curry served with a breaded and fried chicken cutlet on top. It is made using a store-bought block of Japanese curry roux, typically includes onions, potatoes, and carrots, and is served with rice. It is a comforting and hearty meal, often garnished with fukujinzuke pickles.","short_description":"A variation of Japanese curry topped with crispy chicken cutlet.","full_ingredient_list":["400g onion, sliced into 1cm wide pieces","250g potato, cut into 1.5cm cubes","100g carrot, sliced to 7mm thick pieces","1 tbsp oil","115g House Vermont Curry roux (half packet of 230g)","800ml water","4 cups cooked rice","4 Chicken Cutlets, cut into strips","4 tbsp fukujinzuke","salt","pepper"],"components":[{"name":"Curry Base","ingredients":[{"name":"onion","quantity":"400g","preparation_notes":"sliced into 1cm wide pieces"},{"name":"potato","quantity":"250g","preparation_notes":"cut into 1.5cm cubes"},{"name":"carrot","quantity":"100g","preparation_notes":"sliced to 7mm thick pieces"},{"name":"oil","quantity":"1 tbsp","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["vegetable oil","canola oil"]},{"name":"House Vermont Curry (or similar)","quantity":"115g","preparation_notes":"This is half a packet of 230g","substitutions":["S&B brand curry"]},{"name":"water","quantity":"800ml","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["chicken broth"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["pot","stirring spoon","knife"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Add oil to a pot and heat over medium-high heat.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add the onion and saut\u00e9 for a few minutes until translucent and edges begin to brown.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add potatoes and carrots to the pot, stir for a couple of minutes until surfaces start cooking.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 7 minutes until vegetables are almost cooked.","tips":"Remove any scum that rises to the surface."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Break the curry roux into small blocks and add to pot. Stir to blend and cook on low covered for about 10 minutes until dissolved.","tips":"Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust consistency if necessary."}]},{"name":"Chicken Cutlet","ingredients":[{"name":"Chicken Cutlet","quantity":"4","preparation_notes":"cut into 2.5cm wide strips","substitutions":["pork cutlet"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["frying pan","knife"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Cook chicken cutlets and slice them into strips.","tips":"Prepare chicken cutlets while curry is simmering."}]},{"name":"Serving and Garnishes","ingredients":[{"name":"cooked rice","quantity":"4 cups","preparation_notes":"hot"},{"name":"fukujinzuke","quantity":"4 tbsp","preparation_notes":"optional condiment","substitutions":["Any pickled relish"]}],"tools_and_equipment":["serving plate"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place hot rice onto one side of a plate, place chicken cutlet strips next to the rice.","tips":"Lean cutlets on rice to create space for curry."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Pour curry next to the cutlets away from the rice, add fukujinzuke on the side.","tips":"Serve immediately."}]}],"prep_time":"5 minutes","cook_time":"20 minutes","total_time":"25 minutes","servings":"4","tags":["Japanese","Curry","Chicken","Main Dish","Comfort Food","Weeknight Dinner"],"notes":"For a different protein, try using pork cutlet instead of chicken. Serve with a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.","background":"Japanese curry has a unique flavor profile compared to other global curries, primarily due to its thick, b\u00e9chamel-like sauce.","nutrition":{"calories":"945 kcal","protein":"41g","fat":"45g","carbohydrates":"93g","fiber":"6g","sugar":"8g"},"serving_suggestions":"A refreshing salad or miso soup pairs well with the rich curry flavor.","storage":"Store in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Note that potatoes may become spongy when frozen and defrosted.","dietary_info":["Contains gluten","Contains chicken"],"cooking_tips":["Stir the curry occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot.","Adjust the water amount if necessary to get the desired curry consistency."],"variations":["Use beef or pork instead of chicken for the cutlet.","Add different vegetables like peas or corn."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Japanese curry roux blocks make the preparation quick and ensure the authentic flavor and texture of Japanese curry.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":8,"sour":1,"bitter":1,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Japan","seasonality":"Year-round","occasion":"Casual Dinner","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":15,"recommended_pairings":["Green tea","Japanese beer"]} |