Fall has to be my favorite season. Something about the crisp cool air and the smell of leaves just gets me going. To some, a pumpkin spice latte is their favorite indulgence of fall. Mine, a warm, hearty, beef, stew-type concoction. Really, hearty meals just taste better in cool weather, it’s a fact. This recipe is adapted from Paula Deen. I had to make some adjustments while making this dish for the first time, but it turned out amazing! The 2 major adjustments were adding a roux and seasoning at the end. The original recipe calls to season the meat only. The sauce needed a thickener…next time, I will flour the meat before browning. And please please please, always give your food a taste before serving so you can adjust the seasoning. As Nate was chowing down I casually said “So, tomorrow, we are starting our new diet. We can only eat eggs and salad.” Nate exclaimed “WHAT?!?!?!” I replied “April Fools :)” Nate “It’s not April…” Me “Uhh, October Fools, I mean trick or treat!” It has been my mission in life to find THE perfect red and white wine to cook with. Something that tasted great, added yummy flavor to dishes, and didn’t break the bank. The search has ended and here it is: 
There is also an Apothic White which I think is equally as successful in all 3 accounts. Try it!Give this recipe a shot and if anything…you’ll have some leftover wine to enjoy. Not a bad deal 🙂 
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Month: October 2013
Peach Whiskey Barbecue Chicken
Adapted from: The Pioneer Woman First off, I texted this to Nate at work as a hint for dinner: 
I haven’t cooked anything to be remotely proud of in months…yea…months. So to kick start my return, I had to make something spectacular and rib sticking. My love for the Pioneer Woman continues because this recipe even impressed our lawn care guy. When I opened the door to greet him, and the scent of whiskey wafted in his face…I instantly became his favorite customer! Nate was also impressed, but schooled me on what I actually did. I braised the meet. Who knew braising was so easy? Whenever I see that something is braised, it sounds kinda fancy and a lot of work. Not the case! And it turns out, I’ve been braising meet for years without even realizing it. Maybe I should let Nate in the kitchen while I am cooking more often… Flavorful, tender, juicy, fall off the bone, yummy chicken and sauce. Just serve over mashed potatoes and you’re set! Really, you could serve this over mac n cheese and it would still taste good. And this recipe makes a ton for leftovers, believe me, you’ll want them! 
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This Carolina Girl 