Baked Oysters

Baked PEI Oysters

We have the privilege of living on Prince Edward Island and having access to fresh, world-renowned seafood all year round.  P.E.I.’s world famous oysters are a particular treat. Some people love them raw. I love them baked. First things first. How do you open an oyster? Here is a video of my… Read more“Baked Oysters”

Gravy

A boat of gravy shown with cranberry sauce and mustard pickles.

Gravy is poured on meat, potatoes, dressing and even vegetables so it has to taste good and be served hot. What is better for thickening gravy – cornstarch or flour? My mom always used cornstarch, so I always use cornstarch. Cornstarch is also a good alternative for those with gluten… Read more“Gravy”

Bread Dressing or Stuffing for Turkey Dinner

Turkey dinner isn’t complete without the dressing, and a homemade bread dressing makes it even better! INGREDIENTS: (NOTE: These measurements are approximations and can be easily adjusted to your desired taste and texture. The secret to a good homemade dressing is adding the right amount of seasoning, so be sure… Read more“Bread Dressing or Stuffing for Turkey Dinner”

Roast Turkey

The smell of roast turkey cooking in the oven is a sure sign of a special occasion. I choose not to stuff my turkey because of food safety precautions and dietary restrictions. INGREDIENTS: 1                                  Turkey 1                                  Large onion, cut into large pieces 4 cups                        Chicken broth 1 –… Read more“Roast Turkey”

Turkey Dinner De-Stressed

Turkey dinner, a traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner is a lot of work to prepare and clean-up. Here are my thoughts on making this feast as easy as possible so it’s enjoyable for everyone, including the chef! Step 1:  Plan the Menu A week or two before the event, plan the… Read more“Turkey Dinner De-Stressed”

Cranberry Sauce

Festive cranberry sauce

Homemade cranberry sauce is easy to make and so much better than store bought. Adjust the recipe to any amount you want keeping the 2:1:1 ratio. INGREDIENTS: 2 cups                        Fresh cranberries 1 cup                          Water 1 cup                          Granulated sugar DIRECTIONS: Wash cranberries thoroughly and pick out any bad ones. Put cranberries… Read more“Cranberry Sauce”

Christmas To Do List

With Christmas just around the corner Santa isn’t the only one making a list!  We all need to make a list of things to do and things we want to do and cross them off as they are completed. We all have traditions that are important for our families. These are… Read more“Christmas To Do List”

Chopped Nuts

Nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, etc.) are an expensive ingredient in many recipes. Money saving tip: Buy whole nuts in bulk and chop them at home in a food processor. Store in an air tight container in the freezer to keep them fresh.  This applies to coconut as well. Here are some… Read more“Chopped Nuts”

No Mess Bacon

Bacon cooking on a broiler pan.

The broiler pan. There has been one in every home I’ve lived in, but until recently I’ve never used it. I have discovered that it is an incredible tool for cooking bacon! There is no spattering and most of the grease drips into the bottom of the pan.   Directions: A spray… Read more“No Mess Bacon”

Stop Pots from Boiling Over

Wooden spoon will prevent pot from boiling over.

Mom isn’t in my kitchen very often. We live 5,000 km apart. But when she is I always learn something. During a visit over Thanksgiving weekend, she shared this practical tip. As I put a pot of potatoes on the stove, she put a wooden spoon across the top and… Read more“Stop Pots from Boiling Over”