Did you know that Thomas Jefferson was the first American to write a recipe for ice cream? Did you know that Mrs. Hill’s New Cook Book was the major southern cookbook published in the aftermath of the Civil War?  If not, you definitely need to read American Food Writing: An Anthology With Classic Recipes.  This is an excellent collection of essays, anecdotes, and recipes that span over three centuries (and yes, some of the old recipes aren’t too bad either!).  There is really interesting chapter on the thirteen course meal (I am still trying to figure out how to eat that much and can you imagine the dishes?!?).  There are more than 50 recipes that range from vintage (like the Thomas Jefferson’s ice cream recipe) to modern (like Lady Bird’s Pedernales Chili). Some surprising authors that are included in here are Nathaniel Hawthorne, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Walt Whitman, Thomas Wolfe, Willa Cather, and Langston Hughes.  Who knew they all were interested in food?  Chefs and critics discuss culinary philosophies and offer advice on the finer points of techniques too. This is a must have for all foodies.

You have to get the Mama says, “No More Frozen Pizza!” cookbook. This is the coolest cookbook I have ever owned. This cookbook has 24 nutritious recipes that are designed for new cooks! Now, the first thing that makes this cookbook unique is that it is in the shape of an order out pizza box. It looks like a pizza. When you open the box, you will be for a surprise. I know I was! Each recipe is on paper that is shaped like a pizza (circle). You can easily go in there and grab the recipe you want. The first thing you see is a picture of a pizza. When you flip it over, there is a nice little forward about the book. Plus, there is also some advice: “All we ask is that you wipe off the recipe cards before you store them, do the dishes within one week’s time, and send a “thank you” not to whomever sent you this recipe box. Oh, and call your mother once in awhile”.
Now, each recipe card is pretty unique. There is a picture one side of the card, and all of the recipes look absolutely delicious. When you flip the card over, it tells you what the recipe is, how long it takes to make, and how many it will feed. They also have an ingredient list, how to make list (preparation), and equipment. I have to giggle that under equipment they include things like a can opener, large knife, and large frying pan with lid.

There are several awesome recipes we will trying this next week are Dad’s Special Meat Loaf, Italian Roasted Potatoes, and Southwest Chicken Soup. These easy to make recipes are perfect for new cooks (and not so new cooks) with limited time and limited budgets.

Image via Wikipedia

When using melted butter, make sure to add all the butter to the batter.  Leaving even a tablespoon behind can change the recipe.

BuyBarbeques.comis holding this awesome contest where you can win $400 for your favorite grill or bbq recipe.  They don’t care what kind of grill you are making your recipe on be it a gas grill or a charcoal grill. All you have to do is post that recipe to your blog/website AND include a link to iBuyBarbeques.com within your entry.  You also need to use the anchor text of barbeque or grill. The blog post needs to be over 100 words but no more than 200 words.  You also need to live in the United States and at least 18 years old to be eligible to enter.  To qualify for the $400 grand prize drawing, you must submit your entry URL to dan@ibuystores.com. This contest will end at 12:01 on November 1, 2008, so there is a little time left to get those recipes in! If you enter, let me know, so I can cheer you on (plus I’d love some good grilling recipes myself)!

This easy to make recipe is take off of our well known french toasts. However, if you are looking for something a little different, definitely try out these french toast rounds.

I recommend using Wolferman’s English Muffins for this recipe for several reasons.  First, I love the size of them.  That is literally the first thing you will notice.  If you are like me, you are buying whatever is cheaper at the store.  However, cheap does not equal same quality.  Wolferman’s English Muffins are double the size of what I normally buy.  I also noticed right away that I didn’t have to slice these open.  With little ones, I try to use knives the least amount as possible.  These you just have to gently pull them apart.  These are super yummy too.  I cannot believe the taste difference.  When you open the bag, you immediately can smell the flavor.  The cinnamon and raison english muffins is one of the best scents.  Another favorite flavor for our house was the Apple Orchards (I liked the scent of this one too).  If you need english muffins, I highly recommend Wolferman’s.  Without further ado, here is the recipe:

4 Wolferman’s 1910 Original Signature English Muffins (you could also use the Honey & Oats, Cinnamon & Raisin, and Cranberry English Muffins)
2 eggs
1 1/4 cups milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp cinnamon

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon until well blended. Heat a lightly oiled griddle to medium/hot. Dip both sides of the muffin halves into the egg mixture. Place slices on heated griddle. Cook until golden brown on both sides.

Both my kids and I liked this (hubby missed it due to being at the Chicago Bears game).  Let me know if you have a great french toast recipe I should try on our next bag of English muffins.