Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry

Very good, easy, and economical! I served it over jasmine rice for a complete meal.  I added currents for a bit of sweetness, but raisins would work just as well. Others who made this recipe commented that they added some coconut milk, though I didn't do that this time, I will when I make it again as it should round out the flavors of the dish and add some needed richness. 

RECIPE

Fudgy Mocha Toffee Brownies

I have made these a few times now. They offer a nice twist on a standard brownie. The toffee adds some extra sweetness and the coffee helps bring out the chocolate flavor. Enjoy!

RECIPE

Spanish-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Nice change from your standard chicken and dumplings - great if you are looking for a quick, easy, comforting dinner. 

RECIPE

Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables

Yummy pasta dish that is easy and healthy. The roasting of the vegetables really brings out their flavor. Serve with some crusty bread for an easy weeknight meal.

You may consider adding some cooked pancetta to the dish prior to baking to really round out the flavor profile. Enjoy!

RECIPE

Common Table - Bend, OR

Excellent food - great variety of items made from fresh, local food including vegetarian options.

I had a hamburger which I would rank up there with one of the best I have had at a restaurant. The beef was fresh and cooked and flavored perfectly; the bun and spread complimented, not overwhelmed the beef. Good selection of beers on drafts.

If you are looking for a great meal and want to support those in need in the community, this is the place to go in Bend.

Sweet and Spicy Asian Pork Shoulder

This recipe for pork loin cooked in a crockpot is excellent!  Its simple, easy and delicious. Sweet and spicy with a great Asian flavor thanks to the five spice powder. Double all ingredients besides the pork for the most robust flavor. If you are looking for something a bit more mild follow the recipe as listed on the website.

Recipe

Shrimp and Sausage Cioppino

This soup has a great flavor, more like it has simmered for a few hours. It is also healthy, easy, and quick (<40 minutes). Enjoy!


Adapted from a Recipe by Giada De Laurentiis
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 large fennel bulb, trimmed and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces

4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

1 large or 2 small shallots, chopped

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1/2 teaspoon

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus 1/4 teaspoon

 ½ -3/4 lb chorizo, casings removed

2 cups white wine, such as Pinot Grigio

1/4 cup tomato paste

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 bay leaf

½ lb precooked frozen shrimp, thawed

1 1/2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves

Serving suggestion: European Peasant Bread

Directions

In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the fennel, garlic, shallots, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 4 minutes. Add the sausage and break into 1/2-inch pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until brown, about 5 minutes. Add the wine and scrape up the brown bits that cling to the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Stir in the tomato paste, chicken broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.

Uncover the pan and add the shrimp, beans, basil, and thyme. Simmer, uncovered, until the shrimp are heated through, about 4 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Ladle the cioppino into soup bowls and serve with crusty bread.