"" Shop This: 02/27/15

Friday, February 27, 2015

Foodie Friday: Cooking Comforting Classics

Inslee Designs

Will this winter ever end? The one good thing about -20 below wind chills and endless mounds of snow, is that we are cuddling up, layering and laying low in our homes. Thank God it's not bikini season. So, this weekend, I highly recommend taking comfort in one of these winter warmers. 




Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
As a child, my Mother comforted us with Hot Cocoa whenever we were cold.  We were treated to cups of "love" on Winter days after playing in the snow, and Summer evenings after swimming all day. I use to treat my own daughter as well. Mine was good, but it didn't begin with a pan of caramelized sugar and end with 10 ounces of finely chopped chocolate! I want some now.
Sugar Hero


Pork, Smoked Gouda And Mushroom Meat Cupcake
This recipe is really just a very fancy meatloaf. Even those who think they don't care for meatloaf will love this updated classic. Looks yummy!
Deal Peddler

Monte Cristo Sandwiches With Potato Crisps
I am not a sandwich eater, and it probably has been at least a dozen years since I had one. Just too many carbs for me. But this recipe might tempt me. Made with Sourdough Bread, these sammies look sensational!
Gourmet Traveller


Chocolate Pudding with Espresso Whipped Cream
If it's chocolate, I'm comforted. My Mom use to make a simple but delicious chocolate pudding, which I loved eating warm. Ours never even dreamed of being topped with espresso cream! Yum!
Bon Appetit


Smoky Three Cheese Fondue
Yes, Please! Build me a fire and melt some cheese, Now that's a the way to spend a wintry evening. Throw in buttered croissants and plenty of white wine, and I can get very comfortable!
Half Baked Harvest


Apple Tarte Tatin
In my view, a Tarte Tatin so much more appealing than your standard apple pie. I've included this recipe for my friend, Sara, who could be tempted by this recipe.


Chicken Pot Pies with Chanterelles
Boy does this ever remind me of my childhood. The difference is that mine was frozen and came 4 for $1.00. I have elevated my taste buds since then, and this rendition would warm any soul on a cold Winter's day.
Bon Appetit


Hot Buttered Rum
I have not actually had this drink before, but it always sounds so inviting. It's not for everyday, however. Oh! The calories! It is a very interesting recipe. Do click thru to see how to make this chic and comforting cocktail.
Not Without Salt


Penne with Garrotxa, Serrano Ham, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
From Melt: the Art of Macaroni and Cheese. This is the classic that has been really elevated. It is not a difficult recipe, but one that everyone will enjoy.
Huffington Post


Magnolia Bakery's Famous Banana Pudding
If you haven't had the chance to taste this beyond delicious banana pudding, you sure are missing out. But if your Grandma made it, like mine did, it tastes just like that but better. From the iconic bakery in NYC and now in Chicago, I promise you will love it. 
Pop Sugar


Beef Bourguionne Pot Pie
The perfect Sunday Supper! Made with brandy, bourbon, red wine and bacon, this recipe is sure to be off the charts!
Epicurious


Chicken And Waffle Sandwiches
This recipe is for "Mr. Shop This." My poor buddy has been jonesing for chicken and waffles for a long time. Leave it to Jonathan Melendez to create a waffle made of green onion. cheddar and bacon. I bet I will be making these this weekend.
Bon Appetit


Healthy Shrimp and Grits
I will start off by saying that this recipe would NOT be my comfort food of choice. But my family has its roots in the South, and every one of them would just love this dish. It's the perfect breakfast-for-dinner meal which can feel indulgent but doesn’t have to be.
Ashton Keefe


Three Cheese Lasagna
One of the all time most comforting foods, for me. I love to make this dish, though I haven't in a long time. It's ooey and gooey and layered with love. 
Donal Skehan


Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
This sure looks better than Campbell's! What could be more soothing for the flu or a nasty Winter cold? This recipe has a lengthy list of ingredients, but is super easy.
Handle The Heat


Turkey Sloppy Joe
I so remember looking forward to Sloppy Joe day once a month at school. What a treat! As an adult, this elevated version would be more to my liking. It's served in a Pretzel Bread Bowl. How fun. Take note that this recipe calls for "ground turkey." If you are watching your fat intake, use ground turkey breast instead. It will be just as flavorful.
Tablespoon


Overnight Oatmeal
Cozy. Hot. Filling. What a delicious way to start the day!  This recipe can also be made with rice and almond milk.
Goop


“Itai” Meatballs
Last weekend in NYC, we had the best snowy day brunch at a restaurant called The Meatball Shop. That little round ball of meat with its' special pesto sauce was, indeed, comforting and filling. I found the recipe on Heather Christo's website. It's Aida Mollenkamp's and looks divine.
Heather Christo


Chocolate French Toast With Panera Bread
This one is for you, Mollie. We were just having a family discussion, and the three of us decided that French Toast is our favorite comfort food. I recently made a version of this without the Panera bread. "Mr Shop This" is still talking about it. Next time, I'll try this.
Sprinkle Bakes

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