Budget and Semi-Fasting Night

While I make a concerted effort to fast - that is, go meet free or pro-fish - on Fridays, I think of Wednesdays as a secondary fast. It conveniently works out well budget-wise, too. Since I do shopping on Thursdays, I've usually run out of fresh meat by Wednesday. We often have spaghetti or another meat-free meal. While I'd prefer a bit more nutritious supper, budgeting does not allow for my dreams as of yet. I don't quite mind, and I do enjoy happy children. They'd be pleased with every night of spaghetti or pizza. I know that there are nutritious, delicious meals that are meat-free and budget friendly; however, my guys won't eat those. There's never a shortage of challenges for the homemaker in the kitchen.

Slapdash Liptauer

I adore Liptauer, the Austro-Hungarian spread for bagels and such. Often, I don't have all the ingredients or the time to make it. Instead, I'll spread toast with yoghurt cheese and sprinkle smoked paprika, English mustard powder and caraway seeds on top. It's not quite the same - and definitely missing the zing of cornichon - but it will do in a pinch. For a busy morning breakfast, it's certainly more satisfying than buttered toast.

Sunday Dinner

Yesterday, we entertained friends with an old-fashioned, proper Sunday dinner: roast beef, roast potatoes, green beans, gravy and English mustard. The first course was beef broth and dessert was sticky toffee pudding. In a hustle and bustle world, it's lovely to remember and enjoy these types of meals (even if the vintner does like eating it.)

So Far, So Good

I really enjoyed making the puff pastry, much to my surprise yesterday. We'll see if it's any good. My attempt to buy almond meal for the filling was unsuccessful, so I'll seek again this morning. I do know a place that sells it reasonably, but it's quite a drive. We need to get out to get more milk this morning anyway, so we might as well stock up before the big cold front comes in tonight. We should have time for much baking and stewing and simmering over the next few cold days. Oh, and enjoying King Cake, of course!

Puff Pastry

I'm attempting making puff pastry from scratch. I'm partly excited; partly terrified. This is one of the steps from an intermediate cook to advanced. Plus, I'm making it for King Cake for tomorrow. I can always buy one; they're easy to find. If it fails, I'm covered.

Beans and Greens

Today is a day of warm comforting foods with beans and spinach. I'll also make a lentil soup for supper to go with some leftovers. We've been enjoying the seasonal foods.