Flavorful holiday dishes for every course

(Family Features) Whether this holiday marks your culinary debut or you’re a seasoned chef looking for a fresh take on seasonal favorites, you can take some notes from the pros. Every good chef has an arsenal of tricks and techniques to create amazing dishes every time, and the perfect blend of spices is one of those winning secrets.

In a properly seasoned dish, the spice accents the natural flavors without overpowering them. That’s why it’s a good idea to build your menu around spices and herbs of the highest quality, such as Spice Islands, which crafts and packages spices and herbs from around the world to deliver the most authentic and intense flavor possible.

Add flavor-rich, seasonal spices to your holiday table with these flavorful recipes for a Traditional Turkey Rub, Cranberry Apple Chutney, Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme Butter and Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes.

From the appetizers to the main dish to dessert, flavorful seasonings can make a good recipe great. Find more ideas for spicing up your holiday menu at SpiceIslands.com.

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 50 minutes
Yield: 18 mini cheesecakes

• 18        paper baking cups (2 1/2 inch diameter)
• 18        gingersnap cookies
• 12        ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3/4       cup sugar
• 1          tablespoon corn starch
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 2          eggs
• 1          cup canned pumpkin
• 1/3       cup light corn syrup

1. Heat oven to 325° F. Line muffin tin with paper baking cups. Place 1 cookie in each cup.
2. With electric mixer, beat cream cheese, sugar, corn starch and pumpkin pie spice. Add eggs and mix well. Add pumpkin and corn syrup; beat 1 minute.
3. Pour filling into liners, dividing evenly. Bake 30-35 minutes until just set.
4. Chill 1 hour.

Cranberry Apple Chutney

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Yield: 2 cups

• 1          bag (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4       cup water
• 2          large apples, cored and chopped
• 1 1/2    cups sugar
• 2/3       cup finely chopped onion
• 2/3       cup golden raisins
• 2          teaspoons minced fresh ginger
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Minced Garlic
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 3/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Allspice
• 1/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Saigon Cinnamon
• 1/8       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Cloves
• 2/3       cup dark corn syrup
• 1/3       cup cider vinegar
• 2/3       cup chopped pecans

1. In large saucepan, combine cranberries, water, apples, sugar, onion, raisins, ginger, garlic, salt, allspice, cinnamon and cloves. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat; cover, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes. Add corn syrup, vinegar and pecans. Cook uncovered 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Serve with roast turkey, pork roast or baked ham.

Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme Butter

Prep time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings

• 1          tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Ginger
• 1/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Cayenne Pepper
• 3          pounds (about 7 cups) butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2          medium cooking apples, peeled, cored and coarsely chopped
• 2          small onions, coarsely chopped
• 2          cans (14 1/2 ounces each) chicken broth, divided
• 1/2       cup water
• Thyme Butter:
• 1/4       cup butter, softened
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Thyme
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Garlic Powder

1. Heat oven to 425° F.
2. In large bowl, combine oil, ginger and cayenne pepper. Add squash, apples and onions; toss to coat. Transfer to 15-by-10-inch baking pan. Roast in single layer 35-45 minutes, or until tender. Remove from oven.
3. Working in batches, combine squash mixture and one can chicken broth in blender or food processor; blend until smooth. Transfer pureed mixture to large saucepan. Stir in remaining chicken broth and water. Bring soup to boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes.
4. To make thyme butter: Combine butter, thyme and garlic powder until well blended. Spoon onto wax paper and roll into 3-inch log; wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm.
5. To serve, cut butter into thin slices. Ladle hot soup into individual bowls; top each with slice of butter.

Tip: Puree can be made in advance, covered and refrigerated up to 2 days.

Traditional Turkey Rub

Prep time: 5 minutes
Yield: rub for 1 turkey (about 15 pounds)

• 2          teaspoons Spice Islands Crushed Rosemary
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Thyme
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Onion Powder
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Garlic Powder
• 1/8       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Saigon Cinnamon
• sea salt
• Spice Islands Ground Black Pepper
• pure olive oil (optional)
• 1          turkey

1. In small bowl, combine rosemary, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder and cinnamon. Generously add salt and pepper. Lightly coat turkey with oil, if desired.
2. Rub all surfaces of turkey with seasoning. Roast according to package directions.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (whole turkey on platter)

Source: Spice Islands

(Family Features) One of the challenges of cooking at home is creating bold and unique flavors with healthy, organic and wholesome ingredients without spending hours in the kitchen. With the right tools, you don't have to go to extremes or make drastic changes to eat healthy.

Try these tips to prepare tasty, healthy meals in less time:

1. Double or triple up on ingredients: If you’re making a recipe you love, double or triple the recipe so you have plenty of leftovers throughout the week. Prepare extra servings of staple ingredients and protein so you have healthy basics ready then just add a base like rice for a quick meal.

2. Don’t sacrifice nutrition for flavor: Purchase products made with certified organic ingredients that have no artificial colors or flavors and are grown by trusted farmers who share the same passion. Consider including items like Organic Simmer Sauces from SEEDS OF CHANGE, which donates 1 percent of sales to support and develop sustainable community-based farming and growing programs. Add some zest to your favorite meals by sauteing your favorite protein, veggies or tofu with one of an array of flavors: Sesame Ginger Teriyaki, Taco Roasted Chipotle, Sweet and Sour, Mushroom and Tikka Masala. Just add and simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Know your sources: Buy fresh and organic foods from trusted sources. When you’re at the grocery store, keep in mind the farmers who are behind the labels on your family’s favorite foods, and try to make an effort to understand where those foods come from.

Start your journey toward bolder, healthier meal options with this easy and nutritious Seared Polenta Rounds with Mushrooms and Caramelized Onions recipe. Find more organic ways to add nutrition to your meals at seedsofchange.com.

Seared Polenta Rounds with Mushrooms and Caramelized Onions

Recipe courtesy of Tiffany from the blog ParsnipsandPastries.com
Servings: 5

• 1          large yellow onion, sliced
• 1          tablespoon butter
• 1/2       tablespoon olive oil, plus additional for searing
• 1/4       cup vegetable stock
• 10        ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 4          ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• pepper, to taste
• 1          pouch SEEDS OF CHANGE Organic Mushroom Simmer Sauce
• 1          tube (18 ounces) prepared organic polenta
• 10        teaspoons shaved Parmigiano cheese
• fresh parsley

1. Caramelize onions.
2. Heat butter and 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until hot. Add sliced onions to butter mixture and stir gently to coat. Spread onions in one layer, and cook until golden brown and caramelized, stirring every 5 minutes for about 40 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. Once caramelized, add vegetable stock to deglaze pan and scrape browned bits. Add mushrooms and garlic, and season, to taste, with pepper. Cook until mushrooms are browned and tender. Stir in mushroom sauce, lower heat and bring to slow simmer.
4. Cut polenta tube into eight even rounds. Sear polenta rounds in bit of olive oil and season each side with pepper. Cook until polenta is golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to plates.
5. Spoon mushroom mixture over polenta rounds and top with 2 teaspoons Parmigiano cheese per serving and fresh parsley.

(Family Features) When it comes to getting energy from the food you eat, it's no secret that protein packs a powerful punch. However, research shows certain plant-based proteins, like peanuts, may carry additional benefits.

According to a Harvard School of Public Health study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, substituting plant-based proteins like peanuts for animal proteins and low-quality carbohydrates can result in lowering diabetes risk by 7-21 percent. Because peanuts are known as a low glycemic index food due to their slow digestion that causes sugar to gradually be released into the bloodstream, they can have positive effects on blood sugar control.

Find more nutritional information and ways to include peanuts in your diet at gapeanuts.com.

Chicken Pad Thai

Servings: 4

• 1 pound chicken breast
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
• 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 medium zucchini, spiralized (about 1 cup)
• 2 medium carrots, spiralized (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup cooked pad thai stir-fry noodles
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage
• 1 lime, quartered
• 1/4 cup unsalted peanuts, crushed
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

1. Season chicken with pepper, to taste. In large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and cook chicken until fully cooked and juices are clear. Remove chicken from pan and allow to rest 5 minutes before slicing.
2. To make sauce: In small bowl, whisk together honey, chili garlic sauce, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, peanut butter and water.
3. Add zucchini, carrots, rice noodles and chicken to pan; pour sauce over and toss to coat. Toss in bean sprouts and cabbage. Serve with lime wedge, crushed peanuts and cilantro.

Nutritional information per serving: 295 calories, 12 g total fat, 2 g saturated fat, 60 mg cholesterol, 792 mg sodium, 22 g carbohydrates, 4 g fiber, 9 g sugar, 27 g protein, 109% vitamin A, 46% vitamin C, 7% calcium, 10% iron.

Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

Servings: 2

• 1/4 cup powdered peanut butter
• 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 teaspoons ground chia seeds
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup small banana, sliced
• 1 tablespoon peanuts, chopped
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter

1. In medium bowl, stir together powdered peanut butter, oats, chia seeds, coconut milk and vanilla extract.
2. Divide evenly into mason jars or storage containers and refrigerate overnight.
3. Before serving, add banana slices, chopped peanuts and peanut butter to each.

Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories, 12 g total fat, 4 g saturated fat, 135 mg sodium, 36 g carbohydrates, 7 g dietary fiber, 8 g sugar, 10 g protein, 8% vitamin A, 4% vitamin C, 35% calcium, 13% iron.

Baked Salmon with Peanut Butter Glaze

Servings: 4

• 1 pound salmon
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
• 1/4 cup 100 percent orange juice

1. Heat oven to 400° F and line baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place salmon on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper, to taste. Bake salmon 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
2. In small saucepot over medium-low heat, whisk together peanut butter, chili garlic sauce and orange juice, and cook until warm.
3. To serve, pour peanut butter glaze over salmon.

Nutritional information per serving: 334 calories, 23 g total fat, 5 g saturated fat, 50 mg cholesterol, 173 mg sodium, 5 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 27 g protein, 8% vitamin C, 4% calcium, 3% iron.

Vegetarian Nourish Bowl

Servings: 4

• 1 cup large, diced butternut squash
• 16 ounces Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 medium red onion, large diced
• 1/2 can (8 ounces) reduced-sodium garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 head garlic (about 10 cloves), peeled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped peanuts

1. Heat oven to 400° F and line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. On prepared baking sheet, arrange butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, onion, garbanzo beans and garlic; toss vegetables in olive oil and season with pepper, to taste.
2. Roast 30-40 minutes until slightly golden in color. Halfway through baking, shake vegetables or turn over to ensure even browning.
3. To make dressing: Mix together lemon juice, water, Sriracha sauce and peanut butter.
4. To serve, top quinoa with roasted veggies, crushed peanuts and drizzle of lemon-peanut butter sauce.

Nutritional information per serving: 323 calories, 14 g total fat, 2 g saturated fat, 308 mg sodium, 42 g carbohydrates, 11 g fiber, 5 g sugar, 13 g protein, 92% vitamin A, 197% vitamin C, 11% calcium, 28% iron.

(Family Features) When it comes to planning brunch, there really are no rules. It’s the perfect opportunity to combine your favorite flavors and foods in one delicious meal.

Warmer weather calls for putting a summer twist on brunch classics. Breakfast Tacos Al Pastor are a fresh, flavorful addition to a festive summer brunch, while this Brunch Bruschetta Bar is a gorgeous way to feed a crowd and highlight your favorite summertime ingredients. These recipes are made and served with not-from-concentrate Florida’s Natural Brand Orange Juice, made entirely from oranges grown, picked and squeezed in Florida, with no water or sugar added.

Both recipes are from the Florida’s Natural Brunch Club, a collection of brunch experts creating recipes to celebrate brunch throughout the year. Brighten up your brunch with more fresh takes on classic recipes at floridasnatural.com.

Breakfast Tacos Al Pastor

Recipe courtesy of Half Baked Harvest
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 1          pound ground chicken or pork
• 1/2       sweet onion, chopped
• 2          cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 2          teaspoons chili powder
• 1          teaspoon paprika
• 1          teaspoon, plus pinch, kosher salt, divided
• 2          chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped
• 1/2       cup not-from-concentrate Florida's Natural Brand Orange Juice
• 1/4       cup water
• 2          cups fresh pineapple chunks, divided
• 1/4       cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4       cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1          jalapeno, seeded and chopped
• 1          lime, juice only
• 4-6       fried eggs
• 6-8       corn or flour tortillas, warmed
• sliced avocado
• feta or cheddar cheese

1. In large skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. When oil shimmers, add ground chicken and onion. Cook, stirring often and breaking up meat as it cooks, until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, chipotle peppers, orange juice, water and 1 cup pineapple. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until sauce has thickened slightly around chicken, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro.
3. In bowl, combine remaining pineapple, basil, jalapeno, lime juice and pinch of salt.

To serve: Divide fried eggs among tortillas and top with chicken. Add pineapple-basil salsa, avocado and cheese.

Brunch Bruschetta Bar

Recipe courtesy of Half Baked Harvest
Prep time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8-12

• 1          cup basil pesto
• 1          cup sun-dried tomato spread
• 2          cups cherry tomatoes, marinated cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes
• 6-8       soft-boiled or poached eggs
• 6-8       scrambled eggs
• 12        slices grilled or toasted bread
• olive oil, to taste
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 2-3       varieties of soft cheeses
• 2          cups fresh fruit
• 1          sliced avocado
• 2          cups sauteed veggies, such as spinach and mushrooms
• 6-8       pieces fried bacon
• 2-3       varieties of prosciutto, salami or smoked salmon
• 1          cup fruit jam
• 1          cup nut butter
• 1/2       cup honey
• 1          carton not-from-concentrate Florida's Natural Brand Orange Juice

1. On large serving board, arrange sauces and spreads. Add poached eggs, scrambled eggs and bread. Drizzle poached eggs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange cheese, fruits, veggies, meats, jams, nut butter and honey around eggs. 
2. Pour orange juice into juice glasses for sipping.

Source: Florida's Natural

(Family Features) From casual gatherings with friends to outdoor athletic activities and leisurely time at home, all of the best summer pastimes have one thing in common: tasty snacks make them more enjoyable.

Light, airy and fresh popcorn is a perfect summer snack. It’s naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free – all the makings of an ideal guilt-free treat. Whether you enjoy it one delicious handful at a time, sprinkled with seasonings or as an ingredient in fun summertime recipes, popcorn offers plenty of versatility for every occasion.

You can kick up the heat with a zesty popcorn mix or take a sweeter route with a blend of toasted coconut and bananas. No summer sporting event is complete without some good old toffee-style popcorn and nuts, and even a favorite like ice cream sandwiches can only get better with the addition of sweet, crunchy popcorn and candy.

Spice Up Summer Snacks
Freshly popped popcorn is a light snack perfect for summer, and you can add just about any flavor to satisfy whatever you may be craving. Start by sampling these topping favorites then taste your way to other creative combinations.

• Garlic salt
• Parmesan cheese
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Dry taco seasoning mix
• Dry ranch-style seasoning mix
• Lemon pepper
• Italian herbs: oregano, basil, marjoram, thyme and crushed rosemary
• French herbs: marjoram, thyme, summer savory, basil, rosemary, sage and fennel
• Cinnamon
• Brown sugar
• Nutmeg

Find more popcorn recipes perfect for summer at popcorn.org.

Coconut Monkey Mix

Yield: 7 cups

• 1 cup flaked coconut (unsweetened or sweetened)
• 6 cups popped popcorn
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• dash of nutmeg
• 1 cup dried banana chips

1. Heat oven to 325° F.
2. Spread coconut in 13-by-9-inch baking pan, breaking up any clumps as needed. Bake 10 minutes, or until edges of coconut begin to brown.
3. Spread popcorn over coconut and sprinkle with butter; toss. Sprinkle popcorn mixture with sugar, salt and nutmeg; toss.
4. Bake 5 minutes longer, remove from heat and toss with banana chips. Serve immediately or cool and store in airtight container.

Popcorn Chipwiches

Yield: 12

• 2 1/2 quarts popped popcorn
• 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup dark corn syrup
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 package (6 ounces) chocolate pieces
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 pints brick-style vanilla ice cream

1. Keep popcorn warm.
2. In 3-quart saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, vinegar and salt. Cook and stir until sugar dissolves. Continue to cook until hard ball stage (250 F on candy thermometer).
3. Pour syrup over popcorn; stir to coat. Add chocolate pieces and nuts; stir just until mixed.
4. Pour into two 13-by-9-by-2-inch pans, spreading and packing firmly. Cool.
5. In each pan, cut 12 rectangles. Cut each pint of ice cream into six slices. Sandwich each ice cream slice between two popcorn rectangles.

Ballpark Popcorn Crunch

Yield: 3 quarts

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 quarts unsalted popped popcorn
• 1 cup chopped walnuts

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. In separate bowl, toss popcorn and walnuts. Add creamed mixture to popcorn and nuts. Combine until coated.
4. Spread on large baking sheet in single layer.
5. Bake 10 minutes, or until crisp.

Beach Party Popcorn

Yield: 2 1/2 quarts

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1-2 drops hot pepper sauce
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 2 quarts popped popcorn
• 2 cups assorted seasoned snacks (crackers, pretzels, etc.)
• 1/2 package (0.56 ounces) bacon-onion dip mix

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Add soy sauce and hot pepper sauce to melted butter.
3. Put popcorn and seasoned snacks in large bowl. Pour butter mixture over popcorn and snacks; toss. Sprinkle with bacon-onion dip mix; toss again.
4. Spread mixture in 15 1/2-by-10 1/2-by-1-inch jelly roll pan and bake 8-10 minutes, stirring once.

Source: The Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Yes, there’s a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. It’s found in each blade of grass growing in Ireland’s lush pastures. Small herds of cows graze freely, and the milk, rich in beta-carotene from the grass, produces butter and cheeses of an exceptionally golden hue.

Thousands of years before the Irish discovered potatoes, dairy cows, milk and butter were being woven into the fabric of Irish society, according to the Cork Butter Museum in Cork City, Ireland. The Cork Butter Exchange, a market created by the merchants of Cork City in 1769, was in its time, the largest butter market in the world, exporting as far away as Europe and America.
Today, dairy products continue to play an important role in Irish cooking. Cooperatives of farmers, creameries and cheesemakers provide delicious Irish butter and cheeses throughout the U.S. under the Kerrygold label.
Here are some iconic recipes from some stars of Irish cooking, using Kerrygold cheeses and butter. To learn more about Kerrygold, and for where-to-buy information, visit www.kerrygold.com/usa.

Dubliner Shepherd’s Pie

Makes 4 to 6 servings
“Our family loves a hearty shepherd’s pie after a long day working on the farm. Because our cows produce milk to make Kerrygold Dubliner Cheese, we like to add some shredded Dubliner to the potato crust.” — Donal Murphy, Kerrygold dairy farmer, Bandon, County Cork, Ireland

Potato Topping:

• 1 1/4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons Kerrygold Irish Butter
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded Kerrygold Dubliner Cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons Kerrygold Irish Butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 small carrots, peeled and
• sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 3/4 cup Guinness Stout
• 3/4 cup beef stock
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly butter an 11- x 7-inch baking dish. Cook potatoes in boiling water for 15 minutes or until very tender; drain well. Mash with butter and milk until smooth, then stir in cheese and salt and set aside.
2. Crumble beef into a medium skillet and cook until no longer pink; remove from skillet and set aside. In same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and carrots; cook for 10 minutes over medium heat to soften, stirring occasionally. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add Guinness, stock, thyme and salt; cook and stir until mixture is slightly thickened then stir in peas and cooked beef. Spoon into prepared baking dish then spread potato mixture over the top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until top is lightly browned.

Roasted Root Vegetable Soup

Serves 4 to 6
“You can substitute pumpkin, turnip or celeriac for the swede (rutabaga), or just use a mixture — this is a very flexible recipe.” — Neven Maguire, chef/owner of the renowned MacNean House and Restaurant in Blacklion, County Cavan, Ireland; popular TV cooking star and cookbook author

• 1 small swede (rutabaga) cut into cubes
• 2 carrots, cut into cubes
• 1 parsnip, cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) Kerrygold Irish Butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 quart (4 cups) vegetable stock
• 1/2 cup single cream (or substitute half and half)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place swede, carrots and parsnip on baking sheet and drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season generously and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and tender, shaking baking sheet occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Meanwhile, heat remaining tablespoon olive oil and butter in large heavy-based pot, and add onion, celery, garlic and thyme. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened but not browned, stirring occasionally.
3. Add roasted root vegetables to pan and then pour in stock. Bring gently to boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until completely tender, stirring occasionally. Purée with a hand blender until completely smooth.
4. To serve, stir cream into soup. Gently heat through and season to taste, then ladle into warmed bowls.

Note: You don’t have to add the cream if you’re watching the calories, but you might need a little extra stock to thin the soup.

Cheese Toasties

Serves 4 to 6

• 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) Kerrygold Irish Butter
• 8 slices firm, country-style white bread
• 1 package (7 ounces) Kerrygold Dubliner Cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives
• Salt and freshly ground black Pepper

1. Butter bread and arrange cheese over half of the slices, buttered side down. Sprinkle with chives and cover with remaining slices, buttered side up.
2. Preheat a griddle or large non-stick frying pan and cook sandwiches two at a time 2 minutes each side until golden brown and cheese has melted. Keep hot.
3. To serve, cut the cheese toasts into fingers.

Brown Soda Bread

Makes 2 loaves
“This is an all-purpose and relatively foolproof recipe based on several I collected while researching ‘The Country Cooking of Ireland.’” — author Colman Andrews, whose Irish cookbook won the 2010 James Beard Foundation award for Best International Cookbook and Cookbook of the Year

• 3 1/2 cups stone-ground whole wheat flour, preferably Irish or Irish-style
• 1 1/2 cups unbleached white flour, preferably Irish, or pastry flour, plus more for dusting
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon softened Kerrygold Irish Butter, plus more for greasing
• 1 3/4 to 2 cups room-temperature
• Buttermilk

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix wheat flour, white flour, baking soda and salt together in a medium bowl. Work butter into mixture with your fingers.
2. Form a well in the middle of flour mixture and pour buttermilk into the well. Form your hand into a rigid claw and stir dough slowly but steadily in a spiral motion, starting in the middle and working outwards. Dough should be soft but not too wet or sticky. (Start with 1 3/4 cups buttermilk, gradually adding, if necessary, to achieve the right consistency.)
3. Turn dough out onto a floured board. Flour your hands lightly, then shape dough into a flat rectangle about 2 inches high. Cut dough in half lengthwise with a wet knife, then gently push each half into a lightly greased glass or foil loaf pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the tops of the loaves are nicely browned.
4. Serve this bread with plenty of Kerrygold Irish Butter.

Rhubarb Crumble

Serves 6
“Crumbles are the ultimate comfort food. Vary the fruit according to the season.” — Darina Allen, founder of the world-famous Ballymaloe Cookery School in Shanagarry, County Cork, Ireland

Filling:

• 1 1/2 pounds rhubarb, cut in 1/2-inch slices
• 1/2 cup sugar

Crumble:

• 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) Kerrygold Irish Butter
• 4 ounces (scant 1 cup) white flour, preferably unbleached
• 1/4 cup superfine sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In bowl, mix filling ingredients; turn into a 1-quart (4 cups) capacity pie dish.
2. Rub butter into flour just until mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs, then stir in sugar.
3. Sprinkle this mixture over rhubarb in the pie dish. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes until topping is cooked and golden. Serve with whipped cream and soft brown sugar, or try stirring a little Amaretto into your cream.

Recipe adapted from the “Ballymaloe Cookery Course Book” published by Kyle Cathie.

Source: Kerrygold/Irish Dairy Board

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(Family Features) While every day is cause to celebrate the light, fluffy and buttery goodness of popcorn, the chillier winter season is perfect for popcorn lovers looking for delicious ways to switch up their snacking routines. Break out of your popcorn rut and put some of these tasty popcorn recipes to the test as you try to beat the bluster of winter. Don’t forget to share all that goodness and invite your friends and family to pop on over to celebrate your favorite snack together.

To feel good about the party snacks you serve, check out Orville Redenbacher’s gourmet popping corn, which features high-quality ingredients like real butter and non-GMO, 100 percent whole-grain kernels that pop up lighter and fluffier than ordinary popcorn.

For the best results, follow these popcorn preparation tips:

• Ensure your product is fresh by checking the "Best By" date on your carton or bag of microwave popcorn.
• Use a clean microwave oven every time.
• Because microwave ovens vary, always cook your popcorn to "sound" and listen to the pop to know when to stop.
• To maximize taste, shake the contents of your bag before pouring it into a bowl. This will help coat the popcorn with flavor. And to maximize crispness, be sure to open or vent the bag immediately after cooking.
• Store popcorn in a cool place, such as a cupboard, out of direct sunlight. Always keep popcorn bags sealed in the original plastic wrapper until you're ready to begin cooking.

Find more recipes and fun popcorn facts at Orville.com or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

1. Cookies and Cream Popcorn Balls – Everyone’s favorite sandwich cookie blends chocolaty crunch with marshmallows and gourmet popcorn for an unbeatable ball of yum.

2. Gigantic Turtle Candies – There’s just one way to make traditional turtle candies better: add the decadent flavor of gourmet caramel popcorn.

3. Salted Caramel Popcorn Bars – Gourmet popcorn and pretzel pieces coated with yummy caramel peanut-butter glaze makes for the perfect sweet and salty combination that will have your mouth watering.

4. Movie Theater Popcorn Candy Bowl – Popcorn may be a movie staple, but when you mix in your favorite theater candies you’ll have a fun blend worthy of critical acclaim.

5. Marshmallow Popcorn Bars with Chocolate Candies – A unique twist on the classic crispy rice treat, these bars offer the perfect light crunch that both kids and adults are sure to enjoy.

6. Popcorn Party Mix – Add a satisfying crunch to your party platter with a zesty blend of peanuts, pretzels and snack mix, along with the delicious taste of the real butter used in Orville Redenbacher’s gourmet popcorn.

7. Crispy Peanut Butter Chocolate Popcorn Squares – This crispy confection made with popcorn, peanut butter and chocolate is sure to become a crowd favorite, so be ready with a back-up batch when the first serving runs out.

Source: Orville Redenbacher's

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(Family Features) Enjoying warm comfort foods during winter months can serve as an exceptional way to defeat that icy chill. As the frost sets in and winds howl, nothing beats the comforting taste of delicious foods like Roasted Sonoma Chicken with Wild Rice and Carrot Butter, Beef and Potato Tzimmes, or Pumpkin Butterscotch Bread Pudding.

For more comfort food recipes, visit culinary.net.

A Winning Comfort Combination

Almost nothing says comfort food quite like tender, slow-cooked beef and potatoes. Add in sweet honey for a twist on a timeless cold-weather classic and you’re in for a true delight. Find more honey-infused recipes at honey.com.

Beef and Potato Tzimmes

Recipe courtesy of the National Honey Board
Servings: 6

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 2 pounds beef, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 2 cups carrots, sliced 1-inch thick
• 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 4 cups water, plus 3 tablespoons (optional)
• 2 cups potatoes, cubed 1-inch thick
• 2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed 1-inch thick
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
• 4 ounces dried apricots
• 4 ounces pitted prunes
• 2 tablespoons flour (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

1. In heavy 5-quart pot over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add beef and brown on all sides.
2. Remove beef from pan, add remaining oil, if necessary, and saute onion until tender. Return beef to pan; add carrots, garlic salt and 4 cups water to cover ingredients. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 1 hour.
3. Add potatoes, sweet potatoes, honey, cinnamon and pepper; stir and return to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, 30 minutes, or until potatoes are barely cooked.
4. Add apricots and prunes and simmer, uncovered, 30 minutes, or until beef is tender. Liquid should be slightly thickened. If necessary, dissolve flour in 3 tablespoons water and stir into stew; return to simmer, stirring frequently.
5. Sprinkle with parsley before serving, if desired.

Cozy Up to Comfort Foods

(Family Features) Creating a comfort food masterpiece like Roasted Sonoma Chicken with Wild Rice and Carrot Butter is a no-brainer when hunger hits along with chilly winter air. The dish’s warm, captivating spices will help you forget about the frosty climate around you.

But to truly keep winter winds at bay, try pairing your tasty meal with a vibrant, fruit-forward wine, such as Kenwood Vineyards Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2014. The wine works well for nearly any occasion, but it’s the perfect complement to bring out the flavors of the roasted chicken thanks to its aromas of raspberry and red currant combining with spice notes of nutmeg and vanilla, which lead to a smooth, elegant finish.

For more wine pairing tips and recipes, visit KenwoodVineyards.com.

Roasted Sonoma Chicken with Wild Rice and Carrot Butter

Recipe courtesy of chef Ari Weiswasser
Serves: 4

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 3/4 cup kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 gallon water
• 1 cup carrot juice
• 4 tablespoons butter, diced
• 1 1/2 cups wild rice
• 3 1/3 cups chicken stock
• 2 large onions, diced
• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons curry spice
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 4 tablespoons sun-dried tomato, chopped finely
• canola oil or olive oil
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

1. Brine chicken in 3/4 cup salt, sugar and water. Refrigerate 1 hour; pat dry and store overnight, uncovered, in fridge.
2. Add carrot juice to saucepan and reduce to thick consistency on high heat, 10-15 minutes. Whisk vigorously if juice separates. Whisk in butter. Set aside to cool.
3. In pot, cover wild rice with chicken stock. Bring to simmer and cook 45 minutes to 1 hour. Season with salt.
4. Heat oven to 400° F.
5. In frying pan on medium-high heat, sweat onions in olive oil until soft. Add curry spice and toast until aromatic, 1-2 minutes. Add vinegar and salt; stir well. Fold through sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Place chicken skin-side up on roasting pan fitted with rack. Brush chicken with canola or olive oil and season with salt. Roast about 25-35 minutes until golden brown; internal temperature should be 165° F. Drizzle with roasting juices; add salt and chopped parsley before plating.
7. To plate, add carrot butter to wild rice; scoop 1/2 cup onto each dish. Place chicken skin-side up on top of rice. Dollop with onion, curry and tomato mixture.

Pair each serving with a glass of Kenwood Vineyards Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2014.

Bread Pudding Pick-Me-Up

On cold winter nights, sometimes that one last bite to eat before turning in is the key to finishing your day on a happy note. A warm serving of Pumpkin Butterscotch Bread Pudding with a dollop of cool ice cream is sure to do the trick. Find more dessert options at verybestbaking.com.

Pumpkin Butterscotch Bread Pudding

Recipe courtesy of Nestlé
Servings: 12
Prep time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 55 minutes

• 1 loaf (14 ounces) cinnamon challah bread or cinnamon brioche, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cans (12 ounces each) Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Lowfat 2 percent Milk
• 1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s 100 percent Pure Pumpkin
• 1 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1 cup Nestlé Toll House Butterscotch Flavored Morsels
• Vanilla Dreyer’s or Edy’s Slow Churned Light Ice Cream

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Grease 13-by-9-inch baking dish.
2. On rimmed baking sheets, spread bread cubes in single layer. Bake, tossing occasionally, 10 minutes, or until dry.
3. In large bowl, beat eggs; stir in evaporated milk, pumpkin, 1 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and salt. Add bread; toss gently to coat. Transfer mixture into prepared baking dish; let stand 30 minutes, or until bread is thoroughly saturated.
4. Combine brown sugar with remaining granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle morsels over bread mixture; top with brown sugar mixture.
5. Bake 45-55 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack 30 minutes to set. Serve warm with ice cream.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (beef stew photo)

Source: Culinary.net

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(Family Features) With the days getting shorter and the weather getting colder, the craving for savory comfort foods is almost sure to follow.

Creating a comfort food masterpiece like Roasted Sonoma Chicken with Wild Rice and Carrot Butter is a no-brainer when hunger hits along with chilly winter air. The dish’s warm, captivating spices will help you forget about the frosty climate around you.

But to truly keep winter winds at bay, try pairing your tasty meal with a vibrant, fruit-forward wine, such as Kenwood Vineyards Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2014. The wine works well for nearly any occasion, but it’s the perfect complement to bring out the flavors of the roasted chicken thanks to its aromas of raspberry and red currant combining with spice notes of nutmeg and vanilla, which lead to a smooth, elegant finish.

Pairing hearty plates with a classic drink is a palate-pleasing way to warm up – and fill up. For more wine pairing tips and recipes, visit KenwoodVineyards.com.

Roasted Sonoma Chicken with Wild Rice and Carrot Butter

Recipe courtesy of chef Ari Weiswasser
Serves: 4

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 3/4 cup kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 gallon water
• 1 cup carrot juice
• 4 tablespoons butter, diced
• 1 1/2 cups wild rice
• 3 1/3 cups chicken stock
• 2 large onions, diced
• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons curry spice
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 4 tablespoons sun-dried tomato, chopped finely
• canola oil or olive oil
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

1. Brine chicken in 3/4 cup salt, sugar and water. Refrigerate 1 hour; pat dry and store overnight, uncovered, in fridge.
2. Add carrot juice to saucepan and reduce to thick consistency on high heat, 10-15 minutes. Whisk vigorously if juice separates. Whisk in butter. Set aside to cool.
3. In pot, cover wild rice with chicken stock. Bring to simmer and cook 45 minutes to 1 hour. Season with salt.
4. Heat oven to 400° F.
5. In frying pan on medium-high heat, sweat onions in olive oil until soft. Add curry spice and toast until aromatic, 1-2 minutes. Add vinegar and salt; stir well. Fold through sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Place chicken skin-side up on roasting pan fitted with rack. Brush chicken with canola or olive oil and season with salt. Roast about 25-35 minutes until golden brown; internal temperature should be 165° F. Drizzle with roasting juices; add salt and chopped parsley before plating.
7. To plate, add carrot butter to wild rice; scoop 1/2 cup onto each dish. Place chicken skin-side up on top of rice. Dollop with onion, curry and tomato mixture.

Pair each serving with a glass of Kenwood Vineyards Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2014.

Source: Kenwood Vineyards

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(Family Features) - Pan-broiling on the stovetop is especially handy for quick and delicious steak dinners. Simply place the meat directly into a preheated nonstick skillet - that's it, nothing more! Keep the heat setting at medium to guarantee even browning.

The Featured Cut

"The flat iron steak originates from the chuck and is well-marbled and tender - holding its own against premier steaks from the rib and loin - and only surpassed in tenderness by the tenderloin at about half the cost," says Chef Dave Zino, executive director of the Culinary Center for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. "Pan-broiling showcases this steak's extraordinary flavor. And it should be noted that the flat iron is an excellent source of protein, providing 21 grams per 3-ounce cooked serving."
Three Easy Steps

Step 1: Heat heavy, nonstick skillet 5 minutes over medium heat.

Step 2: Remove beef from refrigerator and sprinkle with preferred seasonings. Place in preheated skillet without overcrowding. Do not add oil or water and do not cover.

Step 3: Cook flat iron steak (about 8 ounces each) 13 to 15 minutes, turning once. To determine doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer horizontally from the side, penetrating the thickest part or center of the steak. Allow 10 to 15 seconds for the thermometer to register the internal temperature. Steaks should be cooked to 145°F (medium rare) or 160°F (medium). After cooking, season with salt, as desired.

For more pan-broiling tips and recipes, visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.

Flat Iron Steak with Balsamic Pepper Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 beef shoulder top blade (flat iron) steaks (about 8 ounces each)
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 3/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper, divided
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 4 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth

Preparation

1. Bring vinegar to a boil in small saucepan; reduce heat to medium. Cook 20 minutes or until vinegar is reduced to 1/4 cup.
2. Press 1/2 teaspoon pepper evenly onto beef steaks. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Place steaks in skillet; cook steaks 13 to 15 minutes for medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness, turning once. Remove to platter; keep warm.
3. Mix butter and flour in small bowl until smooth. Add reduced vinegar, broth and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper to same skillet. Gradually whisk in butter mixture until smooth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 1 minute, stirring constantly. Serve steaks with sauce.

SOURCE: The Beef Checkoff