Italian Drip Beef

Let's all take a moment here and give thanks to Dave Shelton, who got me a beautiful cast iron dutch oven for my birthday.  Without the dutch oven, this recipe would not have been possible, so thanks, you wonderful man!

I have been eyeing this recipe from the Pioneer Woman for quite awhile, mostly because she starts the whole thing with a list of ways that you can change or substitute ingredients in this recipe.  And you know how I love to not follow recipes!  This was phenomenally easy to make, and turned out a really flavorful and slightly spicy kind of beef stew.  I think next time, I'll add a bit of tomato paste to thicken it up, but she also suggests serving the beef on toasted rolls with melted cheese on top, so you can use just the meat, too, and save the sauce for something else!

Now, get ready for how easy this recipe is.  You will need:

1 beef roast (mine was about 2 pounds, but I made the sauce for 4 pounds worth of meat--it just sounded so good!)

1 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes

1 32 oz container of beef stock

A couple jars of assorted peppers (I used banana peppers, pepper and onion salad, and sliced red and yellow peppers, but you can use whatever kind you'd like)

First of all, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.  Then, sear your roast in some olive oil at high heat.  Make sure you get each side nice and browned, about 2 minutes each side.  Remove the roast to a plate.

Reduce the heat to medium-high, and add in the beef stock, whisking to scrape up all the fond  at the bottom of the oven.  Then all of the other ingredients, including the juice from the peppers, and whisk to combine.  At this point, I brought the whole mixture to a slow boil, but you don't really need to.

Add the roast back to the oven, making sure you also add any of the juice from its plate!  That's the best stuff!

Pop the lid on, and put it in the oven for 3 or 4 hours.  

By the time this is done cooking, the beef will be falling apart and you can just separate it with a pair of tongs and a fork.  Mix the beef back up with the juice it cooked in, then serve it over brown rice.  Or, as the Pioneer Woman did, pull the beef and peppers out, pile it on a bun, cover it with cheese, and broil.  Either way, you really can't go wrong!!

11.22.63

via

This book was recommended to me by my wonderfully prolific reader cousin Summer.  It's not my first Stephen King read (my dad used to loan me copies of his short stories and novellas, which are mind-boggling and bizarre), but it's been a while since I picked up one of his works; man, he is just a good writer.  King might be the only author who can make a story about the story of a man who travels back in time to stop the JFK assassination believable.
11.22.63 begins in 2011, when Jake Epping is summoned by the guy who owns a local diner.  It turns out that, in the back room of the establishment, there is a portal into September 1958.   Jake can step back into mid-century America and change history.  Al tried to go back to stop the assassination, but became ill while he waited for 1963 to roll around; he thinks Jake is the guy for the job.  A lot of things contribute to Jake deciding to accept the assignment (his recovering alcoholic wife has recently left him, things around town are kind of slow, he doesn't have a ton of connections to keep track of), but chief among them is a writing assignment he graded for his GED English class about a man whose life was changed on the night that his father murdered his family.  Jake decides to go back in time and try to stop this event first, then stays on in the past as George Amberson, a nomad who travels from Maine to Florida to Texas.  His journey finally leads to Lee Harvey Oswald and that fateful day in November.  Will he have the conviction to stop Oswald's gun from firing?
Let's start with the fact that this novel is a hulking, very King-esque 849 pages.  It's taken me 3 weeks to complete, not because it wasn't riveting and well-paced, but because it's so thick.  Jake travels back in time more than once, so there are a couple of time lines to keep straight, in addition to the issue of him having a life from 1958-1963.
As I was navigating the plot, John Paul asked, "So has the woman come in yet?"  He didn't know anything about the story, but was totally correct in intuiting that there was a love story connected in some way.  Jake/George does indeed cross paths with a woman while in Texas, and their match imbues the novel with much-needed emotional resonance and gives him a sense of responsibility in the past toward someone other than himself.
In the end, yes, the story has a lot of information about a truly watershed moment in American history (keep in mind, though, that this is fiction), but is more about how a man from today's world can develop a life in a completely new time and place.  I totally recommend it.  Just make sure you have the time!

Circle-y Blue Paintings

I have had so many people asking me, "Haley, how do you make circle-y blue paintings?  I keep googling how to make them, and I just can't find out how to do it."  

Not really.  But here is how you do it anyway:

Buy two gallery-wrapped canvasses.  24x24 inches.  Also buy some puffy paint and acrylic paint.  I bought red puffy paint and two shades of blue acrylic paint.  You really only need the little bottles of acrylic.  

I traced circles on the canvas using different-sized round things (pot lids and the like).  Then I traced sloppy circles and designs around those outlines using the puffy paint.  I really wanted to have a raised pattern, so I laid it on pretty thick.  

I just let that dry, and then painted over that with the acrylic paint and sponge brushes, so there were visible brush strokes.  

And that's it!  I originally thought that the maybe the acrylic paint would cover the color of the puffy paint, which was the original goal, but the red puffy paint showed through, which I actually like the look of!  

Please don't judge that the bed is not made.  I have more important things to do.  Here's the thing, though, our comforter is red and blue, and the paintings match perfectly.  Matt loves them, I love them, they only cost about 20 bucks (the canvas was on saaaale!).  

And now you know how to make circle-y blue paintings.  You're welcome!!

Easy Spicy Garlic Bread

This bread probably doesn't look like much: it's just a dough that you shape into a ball and bake in a Dutch oven.  It can't possibly convey the incredible flavor within the crispy crust, full of spices and herbs, or the ease of pulling everything together in just a few dishes and steps.  It was the perfect compliment to a lentil soup JP and I enjoyed a couple of weeks ago, with lots of hearty chives and thyme, and a hint of heat from chili flakes.  Definitely enjoy this gem before the weather gets too toasty, though, because it is best when served warm.

Easy Spicy Garlic Bread from Joy the Baker

1 c. warm water (between 110 and 115 degrees F) 

2 1/4 tsp. active dry yeast 

pinch of granulated sugar 

4 oz. unsalted butter, melted

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme 

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives 

3/4 tsp. dried red chili flakes (I used some cayenne pepper in its place, as the flakes didn't make the move with us!)

3 cloves of garlic, peeled and sliced 

about 4 cups bread flour, plus more for dusting the work surface 

a few big pinches of coarse ground black pepper

2 tsp. salt

olive oil, coarse sea salt, and chili flakes for topping

1. Sprinkle yeast over warm water, add pinch of sugar and stir gently. Allow yeast and warm water to rest, foam and froth for about 5 minutes. If yeast does not foam and froth after 5 minutes, toss it and start over again with new yeast.

2. Add spices and herbs to melted butter in a small bowl and set aside.

3. Place flour in the bowl of an electric stand mixer, fitted with a bread hook. Add salt and pepper. Pour in activated yeast mixture, and butter mixture. Stir on low speed, with the dough hook, for

about 10 to 12 minutes. The dough ball should clean the sides of the bowl and not stick to the bottom of the mixing bowl. The dough will be relatively smooth and supple, with some firmness from the bread flour.

4. Place dough in a large greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rest in a warm place until double in size, about 1 hour.

5. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

6. When doubled in size, place on a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for about 2 minutes.

7. In a large Dutch oven, add about 2 tablespoons olive oil, to coat the bottom of the pot. Place dough in pot and use a large knife to slice a fairly deep cross into the dough. Drizzle about 3 more tablespoons of olive oil atop the bread. Sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt and pepper flakes.

8. Cover with tight fitting lid and bake for 30 minutes. Reduce oven heat to 400 degrees F, remove lid, and allow to make for about 15-20 minutes more.

9. Remove from oven and allow to cool until easily removed from the pan. Bread will last, well wrapped at room temperature, for up to 3 days.

Haley's Week in Photos

Well, Abbi posted all of the exciting pictures from last week.  But I will say that we have a fabulous time--even just killing time at Starbucks was fun with Mommi and Abbi!  We had so much fun trying on wedding dresses, and going through Abbi's baby stuff, and eating.  Lots and lots of eating.  Abbi and JP really know how to show a girl a good time and help her gain a couple extra pounds.

How cute is this picture??  John Paul had just felt the Churro kicking like a ninja, and it had hurt his hand.  This was at a ceviche restaurant on Canton Street (I think), and the food was delicious!  JP and I both had Mexican Mules (a tequila, citrus, ginger drink), which just may be my new summer drink!

Mia is so alert!  This was on our way to walk around Roswell Park. 

My birthday dinner was something else!  Here are all three people who contributed to the steak and collard greens and sweet potatoes and wine and peanut butter cake!  They are so sweet to me.

How adorable is this happy birthday cake plate that I got to use?!  This cake was delicious, and we may or may not have had it for breakfasts, snacks, and additional desserts.  Only Mia knows the truth, and she ain't telling.

So, Abbi mentioned that we went to Sweetwater, but she did not tell you about the line to get in.  No joke.  But it was totally worth the wait, as this was the one thing that I truly wanted to check off my list while I was in Atlanta (besides finding my wedding dress, of course!).  

I leave you with a glimpse of my Easter outfit from Sunday.  Mommi gave me the beautiful scarf for my birthday, and the gold (and spiky!) earrings are from Abbi!  They know me so well...

Wedding Weekend in Atlanta 2013

Last week and weekend was consumed with talk of white fabric and baby kicks.  We laughed at goofy Mia antics, we teared up at Haley in gorgeous wedding dresses, and we cooed over teeny onesies.  It was a really good time.

Last week's bump photo: 8.5 inches and 1.2 lbs.  (This week he's up to 1.5 lbs, and kicking his mom awake at 6am!)  This might be my favorite photo in this series yet.

Now, I obviously can't post photos of the wedding dress extravaganza.  It is a sacred and secret experience.  However, I can post a few details!  It should be noted that everything was stunning on Haley, and she will be an absolute vision walking down the aisle next March.  Also, none of these dresses is THE dress, which we did find and fawn over.  Mission accomplished.

This dress on Haley was absolutely exquisite.  Trust me when I say that it draped beautifully.

The crystal belt on this one really emphasized her tiny waist.  Plus, it made her engagement ring really sparkle!

Just look at this veil!  It completed the bridal look perfectly!

We went on some great walks around Roswell Area Park, which identifies all the trees found on the trails.  This one in particular is my favorite.

Haley teased Mia by swinging very high one morning; she was concerned about her aunt's well-being.  

How cute is this view?

 On Saturday, Mom departed, and JP and I took Haley to Sweetwater Brewery.  She was less than enthused (just kidding!).  They do tastings for a couple of hours, and Haley was very excited to try out Sweetwater Blue on tap.

See?  I wasn't lying about her excitement.

I was really impressed by their tap water.  Cheers!

My husband is really patient.

By Easter Sunday night, JP was worn out.  The negative of having a black dog is that she blends right into dark photos, but Mia is curled up next to him on the far side of the couch.
This photo was taken at 9:30pm.

It was a great long weekend trip!  We couldn't have had a better time.

Beergaritas

Guys, where have I been?  I don't know, I have been taking trips, eating out, slacking. 

Can you forgive me?  

What if I gave you an incredible recipe for a delightful margarita?

I promise you'll love it.

For every serving, you will need:

1 light beer (we used Modelo)

1 shot tequila

1 shot Triple Sec

1/2 shot Rose's sweetened lime juice

1 tbsp thawed lime concentrate

Juice of 1/2 lime

Mix it all up!  Serve it over ice!  You know how some margaritas are all sugary and teeth-hurty?  These are not.  You should use a citrus reamer, because all the little pulpy bits of lime are like flavor explosions while you're drinking, but I will still love you if you don't.  

Because you put up with my weird unexplained absences.

Happy Birthday to Haley!! (Also, a chocolate buttercream frosting)

Take a good, hard look at the face in the photo above.  

That face is 25 years old today.  

Has 25 ever looked so impossibly wonderful, cute, and sweet?!  

Happiest, most wonderful, heartfelt birthday wishes for my incredible younger sister, who has somehow scored in both the personality AND looks department.  I couldn't be more glad that you were born!

Haley (and Mom!!) came up to Atlanta last week (I cannot wait to share photos with you; there was a lot of cuteness to be had), so we celebrated the birthday a couple of days early.  How could you not want to bake a wonderful cake for that cutie pie?  Inside of that frosting is a peanut butter cake, but the real star of the dessert was a chocolate buttercream frosting from Joy the Baker.  All of us may have taken turns licking the bowl, spatula, and beaters; there is no photographic proof, though, so good luck pinning it on us.
Slather this frosting on top of any cake, celebratory or not.  Its rich, dimensional flavor and velvety smooth texture will make anything taste good.  I'm tempted to make a batch and use it as dip for apple and pear slices.
Of course, it is best when showing the people close to us that we love them.

Best Chocolate Buttercream Frosting from Joy the Baker Cookbook, 2012
3/4 c. butter, room temperature
1/2 c. unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2 1/2 c. powdered sugar
2 Tbsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 c. heavy cream
1/3 c. Ovaltine powder

1. Cream together butter, cocoa powder and salt. Butter mixture will be very thick. Turn off the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl and add powdered sugar. 

2. Turn mixer on low and mix in powdered sugar while adding milk and vanilla extract. As the sugar incorporates, raise the speed of the mixer to beat the frosting. Beat until smooth. 

3. In a 2 cup measuring glass, stir together heavy cream and Ovaltine. Turn mixer speed to medium and pour cream mixture into frosting in a slow, steady stream until you’ve reached your desired consistency.  You may not need the full amount of Ovaltine and cream.  (I used it all, for whatever that's worth.)

Happy birthday, Face.  I wish I could bake you cakes every day to show you how awesome you are!  

Quinoa Shrimp Salad

Sometimes we just need something light and colorful for dinner, something that will leave us feeling virtuous and good.  After spending the majority of last week eating cereal and toast (unpacking for 10 hours a day, figuring out where to grocery shop, trying to not embarrass myself in front of our new neighbors, and keeping an eye on Miss Mia in the new house took a lot of energy), I had to whip up a salad come Thursday night.  It was delicious!
This is so, so easy: just a bed of greens, sauteed, seasoned shrimp, lots of beautiful veggies, and some quinoa for extra protein.  Add a dressing made with oil and lime juice.  Wonderful!

Quinoa Shrimp Salad
4 c. mixed greens (you could also just do spinach)
1 tomato, chopped into 1/2-in. cubes
2 bell peppers, roughly chopped
2 scallions, sliced into thick rings
1 avocado, cut into 1/2-in. cubes
1 c. cooked quinoa

Combine everything in a bowl.  Top with shrimp and dressing before serving (recipes below).

Seasoned Shrimp
1/2 tsp. of the following: salt, pepper, paprika/pimenton, cayenne pepper, and garlic
1/4. lb. of peeled shrimp

Combine in a small bowl.  Sautee in a pan over medium heat until opaque throughout.

Lime Dressing
1/4 c. fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
1/2 c. olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Shake in a mason jar.  Add desired amount to salad.

Haley's Week in Photos

You know how I said last Friday was officially one year until Matt and I got married?  Well, we celebrated by going to our venue and having a pic-nic!  Matt was sweet and came home with some wine, and we had bread and spinach-artichoke dip and pasta salad and sfogliatelle (Italian puff pastries with a sweet ricotta filling).  It was an absolutely perfect day, and it was really nice to get to catch up with each other and have little dream-sessions about our wedding day!

And speaking of weddings, we went to a bridal fair at the South Florida Fairgrounds last weekend.  It wasn't as impressive as I thought it would have been, but we found some good vendors and ideas, so it wasn't a total bust!

The bridal fair was followed by tacos and margaritas at Rocco's Tacos, a really great restaurant and tequila bar down here.  This was St. Patrick's day, so I felt a little guilty for not going all-out Irish for this meal, but I made up for it with dinner...

...which was corned beef, colcannon, and a Magners.  Do you know what colcannon is?  It's smashed potatoes, with bacon and cabbage mixed in, and it is delightful!  I will post the recipe soon, because it's just not fair of me to share.  Also, Magners is a cider from Ireland (although, in Ireland they call it "Bulmers"), and it was basically all that I drank while I studied over there.  It is usually served in a pint glass over ice, but I was too impatient for that!

If we ever eat anything on the couch, Layla supervises very closely, just in case we make a mess that she has to clean up.  She really keeps us in line.

Y'all.  I have discovered red cabbage.  It's not something that we really grew up with, so I never used it, but I needed some for the colcannon, and now I'm wild over it.  Not only is it so incredibly beautiful when you cut it, like some kind of abstract art, but it's pretty tasty, too!

The finished guest room!  It took awhile for us to decide what should art should go where, but I am so happy with the way it has turned out!  You can see my little mirror up over the bed, along with a portrait of an elephant in a suit (thanks, Abbi!), some student artwork that either Mommi or Abbi did eons ago, and a poster of Dinotopia (my favorite book growing up) that Mommi had signed by the illustrator for me!

This artwork, however, has not yet been lucky enough to find a home.  Matt and I are still trying to decide where in our room this will go, so it's doing one of those chic "leaning against the wall" things.

And finally, I will admit that I have a problem, and that problem is rosemary bread.  I know that there are other kinds of breads and herbs that could go together splendidly, but why mess with a good thing?  This is a new recipe that I have tried, to go with a salmon nicoise salad for dinner tonight.  I don't see how we could go wrong!