Recipes Tagged: Make-ahead

Displaying all recipes that include the tag: Make-ahead.

Title ↕	Description ↕	Tags ↕
Classic Mexican Flan	Relish in this classic Mexican dessert with a luscious vanilla cu...	Mexican, Dessert, Custard, Caramel, Easy, Make-ahead, Baking	{"title":"Classic Mexican Flan","description":"Relish in this classic Mexican dessert with a luscious vanilla custard topped with a smooth caramel glaze. This flan is indulgent yet straightforward to prepare, providing a wonderful make-ahead dessert for any occasion.","short_description":"A classic Mexican vanilla custard dessert topped with caramel.","full_ingredient_list":["\u00be cup granulated sugar","5 large eggs","1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk","1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk","1 tablespoon vanilla extract"],"components":[{"name":"Flan","ingredients":[{"name":"granulated sugar","quantity":"\u00be cup","preparation_notes":"For caramel","substitutions":[]},{"name":"large eggs","quantity":"5","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"sweetened condensed milk","quantity":"1 (14-ounce) can","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"evaporated milk","quantity":"1 (12-ounce) can","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"vanilla extract","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan","Blender","Fine mesh strainer (optional)"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat the oven to 350\u00b0F.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add sugar and \u00bc cup of water to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves. Increase to medium-high heat and cook until the mixture is golden.","tips":"Watch closely to prevent burning."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Pour the hot caramel into an 8-inch round cake pan, tilting to coat the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden.","tips":"Caramel is extremely hot; handle with care."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Combine eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract in a blender. Blend on low until combined.","tips":"Let bubbles settle before proceeding."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Place the cake pan in a roasting pan. Pour the milk mixture over the caramel. Fill the roasting pan with 1 inch of hot water.","tips":"This water bath ensures even cooking."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set yet still wobbly. Cool on a wire rack.","tips":"Flan will continue to set as it cools."},{"step_number":7,"description":"To serve, run a knife around the edge and invert onto a serving dish. Chill if desired before serving.","tips":"For neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts."}]}],"prep_time":"20 minutes","cook_time":"50 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 10 minutes","servings":"8 servings","tags":["Mexican","Dessert","Custard","Caramel","Easy","Make-ahead","Baking"],"notes":"Ensure you keep a close watch on the caramel as it cooks to prevent burning.","background":"Flan has its origins in the Roman Empire and became a notable dessert in Spain before it was introduced to Mexico, where it is a beloved dessert today.","nutrition":{"calories":"338 kcal","protein":"11g","fat":"11g","carbohydrates":"50g","fiber":"0g","sugar":"50g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally garnished with fresh mint or berries.","storage":"Store in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap for up to 4 days. Not suitable for freezing.","dietary_info":["Contains eggs","Contains dairy"],"cooking_tips":["Use a wet pastry brush to clean off sugar crystals from the pan side.","Tap the cake pan to release air bubbles for a smooth custard."],"variations":["Try coconut milk for a tropical twist.","Add dissolved instant coffee for a coffee-flavored flan.","Mix in cream cheese for a richer texture."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Sugar is critical for the caramel glaze that coats the flan, providing a signature sweet flavor and glossy finish.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":8,"savory":0,"sour":1,"bitter":2,"umami":0},"geographic_region":"Latin America","seasonality":"Year-round","sustainability_score":{"score":85,"details":"Utilizes standard pantry ingredients with low environmental impact."},"occasion":"Suitable for family gatherings and festive events.","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["Serve with a light dessert wine or Mexican coffee."]}
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."}
Silky Mutabal (Eggplant and Tahini Dip)	Mutabal is a creamy, smoky Middle Eastern dip made primarily from...	Middle Eastern, Appetizer, Vegetarian, Vegan option, Gluten-Free, Mediterranean, Snack, Healthy, Make-ahead	{"title":"Silky Mutabal (Eggplant and Tahini Dip)","description":"Mutabal is a creamy, smoky Middle Eastern dip made primarily from charred eggplant blended with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. This dip, garnished with pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs, offers a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, making it a perfect appetizer or snack.","short_description":"A creamy and smoky eggplant dip enriched with tahini and spices, perfect for appetizers.","full_ingredient_list":["2 lbs eggplant","2 cloves garlic, minced","1\/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed","3 tbsp tahini","2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional)","1 tsp salt","1\/2 tsp cumin","pomegranate seeds for garnish","10 mint leaves, chopped","2 tbsp parsley, chopped","1\/4 tsp dried mint","olive oil"],"components":[{"name":"Eggplant Dip Base","ingredients":[{"name":"eggplant","quantity":"2 lbs","preparation_notes":"Slice lengthwise and brush with olive oil, roast until tender"},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"2 cloves","preparation_notes":"minced"},{"name":"lemon juice","quantity":"1\/4 cup","preparation_notes":"freshly squeezed"},{"name":"tahini","quantity":"3 tbsp"},{"name":"plain Greek yogurt","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"optional"},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 tsp"},{"name":"cumin","quantity":"1\/2 tsp"}],"tools_and_equipment":["oven","baking sheet","parchment paper","knife","brush","colander","sieve","food processor or mixing bowl"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat the oven to 450\u00b0F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Slice eggplants lengthwise and brush the cut sides with olive oil. Place cut side down on the prepared baking sheet."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Roast eggplants for about 35 minutes until the interior is tender and the skin is loose. Then broil for 6-8 minutes to char the skin. Let cool for 5 minutes."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Scoop out the eggplant flesh and place it in a colander to drain for 30 minutes."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Mix the drained eggplant with garlic, lemon juice, tahini, yogurt, salt, and cumin in a bowl or food processor until well combined. Adjust salt to taste if needed."}]},{"name":"Garnishing","ingredients":[{"name":"pomegranate seeds","quantity":"to taste","substitutions":["diced tomatoes"]},{"name":"mint leaves","quantity":"10","preparation_notes":"chopped"},{"name":"parsley","quantity":"2 tbsp","preparation_notes":"chopped"},{"name":"dried mint","quantity":"1\/4 tsp"},{"name":"olive oil","quantity":"for drizzling"}],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Serve the dip in a shallow bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with pomegranate seeds, mint, and parsley."}]}],"prep_time":"10 minutes","cook_time":"45 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 25 minutes","servings":"6","tags":["Middle Eastern","Appetizer","Vegetarian","Vegan option","Gluten-Free","Mediterranean","Snack","Healthy","Make-ahead"],"notes":"If the dip is slightly bitter, adding more salt can balance the flavor. The optional yogurt provides extra creaminess. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.","background":"Mutabal is a traditional dip enjoyed across the Middle East, known for its smoky flavor derived from roasting eggplant. It is closely related to baba ganoush, though typically uses tahini and fewer ingredients.","nutrition":{"calories":"87","protein":"3g","fat":"4g","carbohydrates":"12g","fiber":"5g","sugar":"6g"},"serving_suggestions":"Pairs well with fresh vegetables or pita chips. Also great as a spread for sandwiches or alongside grilled meats.","storage":"Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months but may have texture changes.","dietary_info":["Vegetarian","Gluten-Free","Vegan option with no yogurt"],"cooking_tips":["Removing the eggplant seeds can help reduce bitterness.","Use high-quality tahini for best results."],"variations":["Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra smokiness.","Include roasted red peppers for a sweeter version."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Tahini adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the dish, making it an essential ingredient.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":2,"savory":8,"sour":5,"bitter":3,"umami":7},"geographic_region":"Middle East","seasonality":"All year round","sustainability_score":{"score":80,"details":"Eggplants and tahini have relatively low environmental impacts, especially when sourced locally."},"occasion":"Casual gatherings, parties, potlucks","skill_level":"Beginner","cost_estimate":10,"recommended_pairings":["Serve with Armenian flatbread or pita bread.","Pair with grilled chicken or lamb kabobs."]}
Simple Layered Lasagna	A straightforward and flavorful lasagna with a creamy ricotta fil...	casserole, Italian, make-ahead, freezer-friendly	{"title":"Simple Layered Lasagna","description":"A straightforward and flavorful lasagna with a creamy ricotta filling and savory meat sauce, perfect for make-ahead or freezing.","full_ingredient_list":["15 oz. ricotta cheese","1 large egg","4.5 cups mozzarella cheese","\u00be cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated","2 teaspoons Italian seasoning","2 tablespoons olive oil","1 yellow onion, finely diced","\u00be lb. ground beef","\u00be lb. Italian sausage","3 cloves garlic, minced","\u00bd cup chicken broth","40 oz. marinara sauce","1 tablespoon tomato paste","1 teaspoon hot sauce","1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce","12 lasagna noodles","\u00bd teaspoon salt","\u00bc teaspoon pepper","Fresh parsley"],"components":[{"name":"Cheese Filling","ingredients":[{"name":"Ricotta cheese","quantity":"15 oz.","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Large egg","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Mozzarella cheese","quantity":"2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Parmesan cheese","quantity":"\u00be cup","preparation_notes":"freshly grated","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Italian seasoning","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Salt","quantity":"\u00bd teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Pepper","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Combine the cheese filling ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside.","tips":"Ensure the ricotta cheese is well mixed with the egg for a creamy texture."}]},{"name":"Meat Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"Olive oil","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Yellow onion","quantity":"1","preparation_notes":"finely diced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground beef","quantity":"\u00be lb.","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground Italian sausage","quantity":"\u00be lb.","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic cloves","quantity":"3","preparation_notes":"minced","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Chicken broth","quantity":"\u00bd cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Marinara sauce","quantity":"40 oz.","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Tomato paste","quantity":"1 tablespoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Hot sauce","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Worcestershire sauce","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":[],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Heat olive oil over medium heat and add the onions. Let them soften for 10 minutes.","tips":"Softening the onions helps release their sugars, balancing the sauce's acidity."},{"step_number":2,"description":"Add the ground beef and sausage and increase heat to medium-high. Cook until browned.","tips":"Break up the meat with a spatula for fine crumbles."},{"step_number":3,"description":"Add garlic in the last minute of cooking. Drain excess fat.","tips":""},{"step_number":4,"description":"Add chicken broth, deglaze the pot, then add marinara sauce, tomato paste, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer.","tips":"Deglazing helps incorporate all the browned flavors."}]},{"name":"Lasagna Assembly","ingredients":[{"name":"Lasagna noodles","quantity":"12","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Mozzarella cheese","quantity":"2.5 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Fresh parsley","quantity":"to taste","preparation_notes":"optional garnish","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["9 x 13-inch casserole dish"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Layer meat sauce, noodles, and ricotta mixture, repeating for 3 layers. Top with mozzarella.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Cover with foil sprayed with nonstick spray. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes.","tips":"Spraying the foil prevents cheese from sticking."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Let rest for 15 minutes before serving, garnish with parsley if desired.","tips":"Resting helps the layers set for easier slicing."}]}],"prep_time":"40 minutes","cook_time":"45 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 40 minutes","servings":"12 servings","tags":["casserole","Italian","make-ahead","freezer-friendly"],"notes":"This lasagna is a versatile dish that can be prepared in advance and stored for future meals. Ensure to fully thaw if frozen before baking. The flavors meld beautifully with time."}
Easy Baked Ziti	An effortless and delightful baked ziti recipe, ideal for cozy we...	dinner, make-ahead, freezer-friendly, Italian, pasta	{"title":"Easy Baked Ziti","description":"An effortless and delightful baked ziti recipe, ideal for cozy weeknights and impressive enough for gatherings.","prep_time":"40 minutes","cook_time":"50 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 30 minutes","servings":"8 to 10","tags":["dinner","make-ahead","freezer-friendly","Italian","pasta"],"notes":"For best results, use whole milk mozzarella cheese, as it melts better and contributes to a more indulgent texture. Feel free to prepare the dish in advance and either refrigerate or freeze it for ease.","full_ingredient_list":["1 lb ziti noodles","1\u00bd lbs ground spicy or sweet Italian sausage","4 cloves garlic, minced","1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes","1 cup heavy cream","\u2153 cup plus 3 tablespoons grated pecorino Romano cheese","\u2153 cup chopped fresh basil","8 oz whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)","1 teaspoon salt","1\u00bd teaspoons sugar","\u00bc teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes"],"components":[{"name":"Ziti and Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"ziti noodles","quantity":"1 lb","preparation_notes":"Cooked until very al dente","substitutions":["rigatoni","penne"]},{"name":"Italian sausage","quantity":"1\u00bd lbs","preparation_notes":"Ground or crumbled","substitutions":["ground beef","ground turkey"]},{"name":"garlic","quantity":"4 cloves","preparation_notes":"Minced","substitutions":["garlic powder"]},{"name":"canned crushed tomatoes","quantity":"1 (28-oz) can","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["tomato puree"]},{"name":"heavy cream","quantity":"1 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["half and half","whole milk"]},{"name":"pecorino Romano cheese","quantity":"\u2153 cup plus 3 tablespoons, grated","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["Parmigiano Reggiano"]},{"name":"fresh basil","quantity":"\u2153 cup, chopped","preparation_notes":"Plus more for serving","substitutions":["dried basil"]},{"name":"mozzarella cheese","quantity":"8 oz, shredded","preparation_notes":"Whole milk","substitutions":["fontina cheese"]},{"name":"salt","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"sugar","quantity":"1\u00bd teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"red pepper flakes","quantity":"\u00bc teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["large pot","saut\u00e9 pan","wooden spoon","slotted spoon","9 x 13-inch baking dish"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Preheat the oven to 425\u00b0F and position the rack in the middle.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook ziti noodles for 7 minutes until very al dente. Drain and set aside.","tips":"Undercook the pasta slightly as it will continue to cook in the oven."},{"step_number":3,"description":"In a large saut\u00e9 pan over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the sausage until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.","tips":"Add a tablespoon of olive oil if there's insufficient fat from the sausage."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute until soft. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and red pepper flakes to simmer for 10 minutes.","tips":"Constantly stir garlic to prevent browning."},{"step_number":5,"description":"Stir in cream, \u2153 cup pecorino Romano, fresh basil, and cooked sausage. Mix well.","tips":"Ensure even incorporation of all ingredients for consistent flavor."},{"step_number":6,"description":"Combine sauce with pasta in the pot, then spoon half into a baking dish. Layer with half the mozzarella and pecorino Romano, repeat with remaining pasta and cheese.","tips":"Layer cheese evenly to ensure optimal melting."},{"step_number":7,"description":"Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until cheese melts and browns. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.","tips":"Serve with a simple green salad for a complete meal."}]}]}