The last couple of weeks I’ve been spending time with the boys from Sweet Sally Outdoors, ripping lips and tearing up the Crappie on Beaver Lake. I’ve devised a couple new recipes, and although this version takes advantage of new additionas of fresh arugula, tomatoes, and garam masala, it’s still steeped in the traditions that are so near and dear to my Low Midwest Heart.
Blueberry Crisp Recipe
Blueberry season in Arkansas is just around the corner, giving lovers of this delicious, ethereal superfood an opportunity to use them in a number of traditional and new recipes. I love them in salads, smoothies, cobblers and just by themsleves with something sparkling to drink. The crisp recipe below is designed for cast iron and the grill, but it can just as easily be baked in the oven and served in a traditional ceramic dish. It’s an impressive, easy dessert to make if you’re grilling out…and I highly recommend serving it with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream.
We're Keeping the Dog
Grilled Bread with Herbed Ricotta
This is a great last minute appetizer idea, but is sure to be a favorite of your family because it’s so delicious. It doesn’t take long, and chances are you already have what you need in your fridge and pantry. Feel free to substitute whatever herbs you have on hand, but this combination is pretty damned good.
Homemade Pancakes
I grew up eating pancakes, but only once a week as an important part of watching Saturday morning cartoons,. My working mother taking an extra bit of time to prepare breakfast on Saturdays, the house filled with the fragrances of brown butter, coffee, and maple or blueberry syrup. I still love pancakes, and so do my daughters; in fact, this recipe is a staple in our house, and there is ALWAYS batter in our fridge, and those same smells permeate our home at least three days a week. I’ve added toppings of fresh blueberries and granola to give it a bit of fresh, sweet crunch, but feel free to omit either and add your favorite ingredient…chocolate chips are also delicious when added to the batter just after it hits the griddle or pan.