BBQ Sauce: My Favorite for Backyard Grilling

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 If you have ever witnessed conversations about barbeque preferences, you know it can get kinda heated like when people start talking politics or religion.  It is a subject that evokes a lot of passion.  Everyone has a favorite barbeque sauce or style.

In one area of the Carolinas it is vinegar based with a bit of cayenne and black pepper and in another area it is mustard based and yellow.  In the deep south, it is a tomato based, tangy sweet sauce and they are not adverse to spicing up.  In Alabama, where I am from, there is also a white sauce that is mayonaisse and vinegar based that is considered a regional classic and I don't think I have seen anything like it anywhere else.  Memphis is known for their dry rub barbeque but also has a sauce similar to Kansas City but is not as sweet and is thinner, but still tomato and vinegar based.  Texas barbecue is not so easy to categorize.

Chicken Chili Verde with beans

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 Ones of the benefits of blogging for me has been that I have to stop cooking like the Mad Matter.  Sounds a little crazy but let me explain.  Chili is something I have made for years.  Beef, chicken and vegetarian and every other version I or someone else was in the mood for.  I have not made the same pot of chili twice.  I might have come close but I never used a recipe and I never wrote one down.  It is totally fun but sometimes I wish I could replicate my favorite versions. I am now writing recipes down and taking notes.  Yes, notes.  If I don't get something right the first time, the next time I make it, I will or at least get closer.  This may not be a new concept to some, but for me it is revolutionary.  

Lemon Ricotta Souffle Pancakes with Berries

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Pancakes are a food that transcends cultures.  There are too many versions that vary from culture to culture to name them all.  In North America, it is a classic breakfast food.  Pancakes can grace special occasions or a cozy weekend breakfast.  It is comfort food at its best and for many there are memories associated with them.  My family has spent many a Sunday making our favorite pancake recipes, consuming them with maple syrup and bacon or sausages.  Each person can be accommodated easily for likes and dislikes which can be rather important in families with picky eaters. Additions to a favorite pancake batter is a simple as sprinkling fresh or frozen berries, bananas, grated apples, nuts, granola, chocolate chips, or dried fruit over the top of the pancake.  Or just leave it plain, simple and completely delicious.  The options are almost endless! It can be quite a family event to make pancakes while those hungry mouths are waiting to be fed.