Monday, February 15, 2016

Mommy, You Can't Eat That!

When you are pregnant, there are so many things to remember about food. It's so funny to me because the list of okay things to eat and the STAY AWAY FROM AT ALL COSTS list is constantly changing. It can be a little overwhelming if you are a foodie, and love food as much as we do. And when you have a little man living in your house, it can produce some pretty interesting conversations.

In the almost 14 weeks I've been expecting, the words "Because Mommy can't eat that" have come out of my mouth more times than I count. One, because I'm one of those women who don't just get morning sickness. I get all day, every day, can't get out of bed, need to be on medicine sickness, and the simple though of eating some foods isn't even possible. And two, because there are certain foods that are big no-nos, that he knows I would normally be gobbling down. (Oh, spicy tuna rolls, how I miss you.) 

But he's learning; and now even becoming like a little watch dog about it. So a couple weeks ago when he asked me what we were having for supper, and I answered "bourbon chicken", it only took a few minutes for it to register in his brain and for him to almost tackle me in the kitchen exclaiming "But Mommy, you can't eat that!"  (Yes, he thought the chicken was gonna be drunk.)

Well, lucky for him, and our little peanut, I could. See, it gets the name from the chef who legend has it created the recipe while working on Bourbon street, not the alcohol. Whew...was he relieved! 

If you want to switch up your mundane chicken routine, this is the recipe to do it! Super simple for any weeknight too. Plus, I bet you have most of the ingredients in the kitchen right now! 

I'm glad my little man is watching out for me....even if he cares with a mouth full of sushi! 

Bourbon Chicken
3 boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
2 TBS olive oil
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4-3/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/4 c. apple juice
1/3. packed brown sugar
2 TBS ketchup
1 TBS cider vinegar
1/2 c. water
1/3 c. soy sauce
Salt and Pepper to taste
Chopped Green Onions
Cooked Rice

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.  Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook in oil until browned on all sides. In a medium bowl, combine remaining ingredients, whisk well. Pour over chicken. Bring a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is slightly thickened. Serve over rice, spooning extra sauce over the top and garnish with green onions.









Shared at Weekend Potluck

Monday, February 1, 2016

BIG News

So, we've got some big things going on in the EMM house as of late. If you've noticed, new recipes on the blog have been few and far between since the beginning of the year, and there is a very good reason as to why.

Many of you follow me on Facebook, and already saw the announcement, but for those that don't, here it is...


That's right, I haven't been doing too much cooking lately, but I still have a bun in the oven! We are over the moon excited, and while the first trimester has been kinda rough, it's all worth it. 

But now you can understand why being in the kitchen and creating new recipes hasn't really been at the top of my list. When you've got "morning" sickness that lasts all day long, and most days you are too sick to leave the house, things get put on the back burner. 

However, there have been a few days here and there when I have felt up to cooking, and even trying something new, and I am always sure to take advantage of those when they come. Such was the case when this recipe came to be. It helped that it only took about 15 minutes of effort from me, and the slow cooker took care of the rest! 

This is a great "set it and forget it" meal. It is truly that effortless. I added some bread and fruit on the side and dinner was done. 

We are thrilled to be able to share our exciting news with all of you, and I hope you will be patient with me if things continue to be a little slow around here for a while. 

Crock Pot Ham & Potato Supper
1 lb. ham, cubed
1 lb. frozen green beans
8-10 red potatoes, halved or quartered
1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin
3/4 c. chicken broth
Salt and Pepper to taste
Dried Parsley

Grease Crock Pot with nonstick spray. Layer in potatoes, season with salt and pepper. Top with onions, green beans and ham. Pour chicken broth over. Cook on LOW 6-8 hours. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning. Garnish with a little dried parsley.