Book Signings

I've been asked if I will be coming to GA for book signings. The answer is yes. I will be in the Athens, GA area this summer. Hope to see some of you there.

Strawberry Banana Nut Cake

I've added a new recipe to Martha's Kitchen. Yes, it's very easy to make. The original recipe called for more ingredients - flour, baking soda, baking powder, brown sugar, white sugar and mashed bananas. I've simplified, made it easier and a lot quicker. This is a must try dish.

Yes, I did remove a recipe - Carrot Cake Bars. Sorry!

Bananas - How they help your body

Bananas

Protects your heart

Quiets a cough

Strengthens bones

Controls blood pressure

Blocks diarrhea

Left Over Chicken

A couple of nights ago I made baked chicken breasts. I've never bought chicken breasts with so much meat, ever! The end results left me with a bit of left over meat. I don't like to waste so I chopped it up and decided to make something quick and simple with the leftover meat. This is one of the easiest recipes you will ever find for chicken. I boiled 1 cup of rice, mixed in the leftover chicken (about 1 a cup), added a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, mixed well and poured into a baking dish sprayed with non-stick spray. I thickly topped the dish with shredded cheese and topped that with French fried onion rings. Then into a preheated 350 degree oven it went for about 15 minutes or until the dish was hot and the cheese was melted. This dish was Wonderful! I had drop-in company for dinner and from the raves I got you would have thought I served steak. I told no one how easy it was to make nor that it was made with leftovers. Try this the next time you have left over chicken. You won't regret it.

Avocados - Are they really good for you?

Avocados

Battles diabetes

Lowers cholesterol

Helps stops strokes

Controls blood pressure

Smoothes skin

Stir, Laugh, Repeat - Book Signing

I would like to invite everyone in the Clearwater, FL area to my book signing. The signing will be held at Barnes and Noble on April 4, 2009 from 1:00 to 3:00 in Clearwater, FL. Hope to see you there.

Artichokes - How they help your body.

Artichokes

Aids digestion

Lowers cholesterol

Protects your heart

Stabilizes blood sugar

Guards against liver disease

Panini Press

A Panini Press is one of the most versatile kitchen investments you will make. Not only can you make pressed sandwiches, you can also use it to grill vegetables and meats. There is no turning the sandwich, meat nor vegetables over because the press cooks from the bottom and through the lid. When purchasing, look for a model with a floating hinge to accommodate thick sandwiches, meats and veggies. These little devices are a real time saver in the kitchen. I use mine to make sandwiches, hamburgers, roasted onions and bell peppers, just to name a few. They are also perfect to have on hand when unexpected company comes over and you need to make something quick for snacks like sandwich pizzas or mini sandwiches made with party breads. This has become a must in my kitchen.

A New Scam - Important, Please Read

This was sent to me by a friend and I feel it's something that needs to be passed around.


This is an email received from my university employers' purchasing department, so read and then be CAREFUL!

Purchasing wanted to share this email message that was received from a colleague.

This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.

Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it.. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & Master Card Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.

One of our employees was called on Wednesday from 'VISA', and I was called on Thursday from 'Master Card'. The scam works like this: Caller: 'This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona ?'

When you say 'No', the caller continues with, 'Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?'

You say 'yes'. The caller continues - 'I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800 -VISA) and ask for Security.'

You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. 'Do you need me to read it again?'

Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, 'I need to verify you are in possession of your card'. He'll ask you to 'turn your card over and look for some numbers'. There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, 'That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?' After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, 'Don't hesitate to call back if you do, and hangs up.

You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card.

Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Do not give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.

What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a 'Jason Richardson of Master Card' with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening.
Please pass this on to all your family, friends and neighbors. By informing each other, we protect each other.

Thanks,

bjm

Purchasing wanted to share this email message that was received from a colleague.

This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.

Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it.. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & Master Card Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.

One of our employees was called on Wednesday from 'VISA', and I was called on Thursday from 'Master Card'. The scam works like this: Caller: 'This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona ?'

When you say 'No', the caller continues with, 'Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?'

You say 'yes'. The caller continues - 'I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800 -VISA) and ask for Security.'

You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. 'Do you need me to read it again?'

Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, 'I need to verify you are in possession of your card'. He'll ask you to 'turn your card over and look for some numbers'. There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, 'That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?' After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, 'Don't hesitate to call back if you do, and hangs up.

You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card.

Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Do not give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.

What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a 'Jason Richardson of Master Card' with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening.
Please pass this on to all your family, friends and neighbors. By informing each other, we protect each other.

Thanks,

Left Over Cheese

After having a gathering of friends I found myself with leftover sliced cheese. All kinds of cheese.. Swiss, Cheddar, etc. With the economy as it is there was no way I would just throw it away and there was also no way I could eat it all before it went bad. So what do you do with leftover cheese? I did 2 things. First I cut it up into small pieces. I measured out 1 1/2 cups and made pimiento cheese. I did this by mixing 1/2 of an 8 oz. pkg. of cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 heaping tablespoons of chopped pimiento and pepper. The different cheeses gave it a great taste. This made a delicious spread. Second, I took what was left over, put it into a freezer bag and put it into the freezer to use with dishes I make that call for cheese. Frozen cheese, after thawing, won't work very well for sandwiches but it works great in cooking. So the next time you're stuck with leftover sliced cheese, give either or both of these suggestions a try.

Apricots

Apricots

Combats cancer

Controls blood pressure

Saves your eyesight

Shields against Alzheimer's

Slows aging process

What Apples Can Do For You

Apples

Protects your heart

prevents constipation

Blocks diarrhea

Improves lung capacity

Cushions joints

Tofu - What is it?

Tofu is a low calorie, high protein, cholesterol free food made from curdled soy milk. Its creamy white with a firmness that can be sliced. Tofu should be kept refrigerated and the water its packed in should be changed daily.

Dijon - What is it?

Dijon is originally from Dijon, France. It's a pale variety of mustard and is know for its sharp, clean flavor that ranges from mild to hot. It is made from brown mustard seeds, white wine, unfermented grape juice and a variety of seasonings.

Grilled Cheese Pizza

I had another idea for a great tasting Grilled Cheese. Butter 2 slices of bread. Place 1 slice, butter side down, on your heated waffle iron, Foreman Grill or any other form of sandwich maker you might have. Add cheese, pepperoni, black olives, sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms and anything else you might like on your pizza. Top with the other slice of bread, butter side up. Shut the lid and cook. Use heated pizza sauce for dipping. Boy this is good! I used my waffle iron so I could do 2 sandwiches at a time. I also made some with rye bread, French bread and wheat bread. I don't have a favorite because they are all good. Cut the sandwiches into quarters and it makes a quick snack for unexpected company.

Imitation Crab Casserole

1 pkg. (12-16 oz.) Imitation Crab
1 cup dry stuffing
milk
4 hard cooked eggs, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1 stalk celery
1 tsp. lemon juice
1/2 cup shredded cheese
1/2 cup French fried onions

Squeeze as much water as possible out of Imitation Crab. Place in a bowl. Place dry stuffing into a measuring cup and add enough milk to bring it to the 1 cup line. Mix with crab, eggs, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Place in a 1 qt. baking dish sprayed with non-stick spray. Bake 20 minutes in a 350 degree preheated oven. Sprinkle with cheese and French Fried onions. Bake another 5 minutes. Serves 4 hungry people and 6 not so hungry.

This is an inexpensive dish using the Imitation Crab. Of course, you can always use the real stuff and it will still come out tasty.

Superblog Chef

This was awarded to me by Windmill and I want to share it with some of my favorite sites.

http://www.foodarrific.com
http://www.jenncooks.com
http://www.liz.mommyslittlecorner.com
http://www.momskitchencooking.blogspot.com
http://www.askmsrecipes.com
http://www.chillyscooking.blogspot.com
http://www.youlinchng.com
http://www.kookyculinary.com/
http://www.tinsumtsorp.blogspot.com
http://www.foodaskew.net
http://www.lanne67-corcodilesoup.blogspot.com/

Thank you Windmill

Italian Cream Sheet Cake

I've just posted a new recipe on Martha's Kitchen. It's for a simple but delicious Italian Cream Sheet Cake. Go check it out to see how simple it is to make.

Yes, I did pull another recipe. I've moved Tropical Banana Bread to the manuscript file. Sorry.

Chowchow - What is it?

Chowchow is a relish made from vegetables such as cabbage, green tomatoes and peppers. It's believed to have been brought to America by Chinese railroad workers. It can be mild or hot depending on the type and heat of the peppers added. And if you are from the South, like I am, you know what great flavor it adds to peas and greens. I have a recipe for my version in my cookbook Stir, Laugh, Repeat. It's not only fun to make but also makes great gifts for friends and family.

Buckwheat - What is it?

Buckwheat is normally thought of as a cereal but it's actually an herb. The seeds are used to make buckwheat flour which is used in pancakes and other baked goods.

Anis - What is it?

Anis is a small annual plant from the parsley family. It's been used as far back as 1500 B.C. The leaves and the seeds have a distinctive sweet licorice flavor. It's used to flavor sweets as well as savory dishes.

Cutting Up Veggies and Fruit

Some times when cutting up veggies or fruit, especially dried fruit, whatever I'm cutting sticks to the blade of my knife and just a rinse doesn't take it off. Putting it in the dishwasher doesn't take it off. I have to scrub the blade which after a while causes a dull blade. There is a solution to this problem. Before cutting, spray a thin film of non-stick spray on your knife blade. Try it. It works.

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

I hate to make chocolate covered strawberries and have those flat spots of chocolate. There is a simple way to prevent that. Buy a thin sheet of styrofoam and cover it with plastic wrap. When you are ready to dip your strawberries simply stick a toothpick into the top of the berry, dip it into the chocolate and stick the toothpick into the styrofoam until the chocolate is set. The finished berries will have no flat spots. Clean up is easy. Simply remove the plastic wrap and throw it away.

Brown Sugar - What is it?

Brown Sugar - White sugar combined with molasses. The darker the brown sugar, the more molasses that is used.

When a recipe calls for packed brown sugar, fill the correct size measuring cup with the sugar, then use the next smaller size cup to pack the brown sugar into its cup.

Apple Dumplin Cobbler

I've just posted a really simple, delicious recipe on Martha's Kitchen http://www.marthaskitchenkorner.com It's for one of the best, easiest apple cobblers you will find. Check it out and see how quickly you can make one.

I did pull another recipe to be moved to my book file. If you didn't get it, you've mised out on Pineapple Orange Pie... at least until the next book comes out.

Cookie Sheets

If you are like me, your cabinets are full and space for duplicates is impossible. Here's a tip I use when making cookies with just one cookie sheet. Line the cookie sheet with parchment paper. While one batch is baking, load a second sheet of parchment paper to have another batch ready to bake. When one batch comes out of the oven, slip the paper off the pan and slide the next one on. This also makes cleaning up easier.

Stuffed Shells with Pasta Sauce

My niece that I haven't seen in 20+ years will be in town tomorrow. We are all getting together for one big family reunion. I decided to make my Stuffed Shells with Pasta Sauce but also decided to try something different. I boiled 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts until totally done. Crumbled it up and added the cream cheese but also added a package of chopped spinach (remember to squeeze out the liquid from the spinach before adding to the chicken). This is what I used to stuff some of the shells. I made the rest of the recipe as I've listed with the exception of the red sauce. Instead I used Alfredo sauce. This turned out wonderful! To try this or my original Stuffed Shells go to Martha's Kitchen at http://www.marthaskitchenkorner.com

Imitation Crab with Stuffing

I've just posted on Martha's Kitchen a new, simple and delicious recipe made with Imitation Crab. Now you don't have to use imitation, you can use the real thing if you can afford it. This dish is simply wonderful. It was rated from 1 - 10 by some of my food testers and got a rating of 18! Check out the recipe and ingredient changes I've suggested.

But, as usual, I did have to remove a recipe to the manuscript file. The recipe removed this time was my Swiss Salmon. Sorry.

Tuna Melt Casserole - From Stir, Laugh, Repeat

I really love seafood, except for oysters. I can't understand how anyone can eat the whole animal and sometimes even raw. But tuna is one of my favorite. I would take a tuna sandwich over a hamburger any day. And if you add cheese to it I'm even happier. So why not make a tuna melt casserole. It has everything the sandwich has and then some. Of course you can add other ingredients such as nuts, mushrooms, celery, broccoli, onions and peppers.

Tuna Melt Casserole is one of the recipes I've come up with and published in my cookbook Stir, Laugh, Repeat. Get a copy and check it out.

A Cooking Story from Stir, Laugh, Repeat

This is the story that goes with my recipe for "Imitation Scallop Bake."

My girlfriends and I go out once in a while on weekends for dinner. We usually end up at either a salad bar, Mexican restaurant, or a Chinese restaurant. If it's Chinese, it has to be a buffet. And if it's a costly restaurant, it must have all the extras like crab legs and shrimp in all forms. We all love seafood and this is the cheapest way to get it. At one of our favorite pricey buffet restaurants they had something new.. "Crab Bake." I always try a little of everything that I can get on my first plate so I only took about a tablespoon full. When I went back with my second plate I got a good bit more. But with the third plate I got a good-sized wedge. By this time I decided to see if I could determine what was in it. And if I didn't get the ingredients exactly by their recipe, I came really close with my recipe. The only difference is it tastes ore like scallops than it does crab. But, I love scallops too so that's what I called it.

To find this easy recipe, check out my book Stir, Laugh, Repeat... Finding Joy While Playing in the Kitchen. If you like seafood, you will love this one.

Cut In - What does it mean?

When a recipe says to Cut In it means to distribute solid fat in dry ingredients until the particles are the desired size by crisscrossing two knives, using a side or a fork, using a wire whisk or cutting with a pastry blender in a rolling motion.

Blend - What does it mean?

To blend means to combine ingredients with a spoon, wire whisk or rubber scraper until the mixture is very smooth and uniform. You can also use a blender or food processor to blend.