SANDRA'S NO-BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER MARSHMALLOW OAT COOKIES

These a incredibly tasty cookies that are a cross between candy, cookies, and brownies!

Plus, they're fantastically easy to make, no baking required!

Yields: Appx. 4 dozen

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cool at room temp: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1-2⁄3 cups granulated sugar

1⁄2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1⁄2 cup condensed unsweetened milk

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1⁄8 teaspoon kosher salt

1⁄2 cup creamy peanut butter

5 tablespoons unsalted cold butter, cut into 1/2" cubes

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups quick-cooking rolled oats

1/2 cup miniature marshmallows

METHOD

Whisk sugar, cocoa, milk, cinnamon and kosher salt in cold medium-size heavy-bottom saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, while whisking constantly, for 5 minutes, just until sugar has dissolved. (Do not boil.) Remove saucepan from heat.

In increments, add cubes of cold butter, then peanut butter, while constantly stirring with a wooden spoon to incorporate. Add the vanilla extract; stir to combine.

Fold in oats, then marshmallows, mixing thoroughly until combined.

Drop by cookie (small) scoop fulls onto parchment paper. 

Cool thoroughly at room temperature for a minimum of 30 minutes before removing from parchment paper and serving. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S SIGNATURE CREAMY TOMATO VINAIGRETTE

I usually have this incredible
creamy vinaigrette on hand in my refrigerator,
it's a fresh and tasty staple readily available at most times in my house...

Yield: 2 cups

Prep: 10 Mins.

Refrigerate: Up to 7 days

INGREDIENTS

1 cup mayonnaise

1 cup seeded and diced roma tomatoes

1/3 cup diced yellow onion

3 tablespoons cider vinegar

2 tablespoons Mazola oil

1/2 teaspoon garlic granules (or powder)

3 tablespoons dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon freshly chopped)

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

METHOD

Place all ingredients into the pitcher of a blender; puree until smooth.

Transfer to a pint-size Mason jar, cover, and store in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours for flavors to meld, or up to 7 days.

Serve with your favorite garden salad, or as a vegetable or torn rustic bread dip. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S ALASKA HEARTY FALL VEGETABLE LASAGNA (Downsized)

You'll never miss the meat with this hearty veggie lasagna,
it's full-flavored and scrumptious,
especially when served with sides of
warm and crispy garlic bread
and a garden salad tossed with a freshly made vinaigrette...

Servings: (4-6)

Prep: 20 Mins.

Bale: 1 hour

INGREDIENTS

White Sauce

1-1/2 cup 2% low-fat small curd cottage cheese

2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan, plus more for topping

1 large egg, beaten

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 teaspoon dry onion granules

2 tablespoons freshly julienned basil (from my garden)

1 teaspoon dry Italian herb blend

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Pasta

10 Curly Edged dry pasta noodles, broke in half and cooked according to pkg directions (only for 12 minutes)

--drain, then pull apart using tongs to cool slightly

Sautéed Vegetable mixture

2 tablespoons Olive Oil

4 mini bell peppers: 2 orange, 2 red, diced (from my garden)

1/4 yellow onion, diced

2 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, then sliced into 1/4" half moons

1/2 teaspoon garlic granules

Pinch of kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

Shredded Cheese Mixture

2 cups shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese

Marinara

4 cups marinara sauce (either your favorite store bought, or my homemade recipe; CLICK LINK)

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350F. Set aside an 8x8" square glass baking dish, including a baking sheet to set it on top of while baking (to prevent potential spillage).

In a medium bowl, combine all of the white sauce ingredients; set aside.

Prepare the pasta, as directed above.

In a large non-stick skillet, add the olive oil and heat to medium-high heat. Add all the ingredients and sauté for 7 to 9 minutes, just until the onions are translucent but not browned. Remove from heat to slightly cool.

To arrange the lasagna, add enough marinara to cover bottom of baking dish.  Lay a layer of lasagna noodles, overlapping slightly to cover marinara.  Add enough marinara to cover noodle layer.  Add 1/3 of the sauce mixture, 1/3 of the cheeses, and 1/3 of the vegetable mixture. Repeat laying from the noodles in the opposite direction 1 more time.

To finish, topping off, add the final layer of the vegetable mixture, the remaining cheeses, then top by drizzling 4 strips of marinara across the top (as in photo), then sprinkle the marinara strips with parmesan.

Bake for 40 minutes covered, topped with parchment then foil, for 40 minutes. Uncover (save the parchment and foil to store in frig later if you have leftovers), then continue baking for 20 minutes until top cheesy portions turn golden brown and delicious. Let stand, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes to set prior portioning out and serving.~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S EASY ONE-PAN CHICKEN THIGH and RICE CREOLE BAKE

First, I sear the chicken thighs, then add all the other ingredients,

cover and bake for 50 minutes = absolute perfection with crispy, moist chicken

and heavenly seasoned rice!

Servings: 3-4

Prep: 5 Mins.

Cook  10 Mins.

Bake: 50 Mins.

Rest: 10 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Spice blend (divided):

2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (I use Tony Chachere's in the green container)

1 teaspoon Lawry's seasoning salt

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons onion powder

2 teaspoons paprika

1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper

Chicken:

3-4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, (mine are from Costco the 3-pack tends to come with 3/4 thighs)

1/2 of above spice blend mixture (reserve other 1/2 for rice, below)

1 teaspoon Mazola oil

Plus, 1 tablespoon Mazola oil for searing

Rice:

1 cup raw Calrose rice (short-grain)

Remaining 1/2 of spice mixture

1 tablespoon Worcestershire

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon lemon juice

METHOD

Preheat oven to 400F. Place an ovenproof medium-size stainless steel skillet, with lid, aside.

Add all the spice blend ingredients onto a paper plate, then whisk to combine; set aside.

Place the skillet (see photo) over high heat on stovetop with 2 tablespoons of Mazola oil.

Meanwhile, pat chicken thighs dry with paper towel, including using kitchen shears to cut any excess fat without disturbing skin on under-side.  Place prepared thighs in a medium bowl.  Add half the spice mixture and drizzle with 1 teaspoon Mazola oil, then gently rub spices into both sides to coat evenly.

Place chicken skin-side down using tongs into hot skillet, while sliding back and forth initially when doing so to prevent sticking. Sear for 4 minutes on skin-side down, turn over then do the same on the under-side for 4 more minutes. Remove seared chicken thighs to a paper plate and set aside; drain grease from pan while reserving drippings.

Reduce heat under pan to medium-high and add the raw rice and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the other 1/2 of the reserved spice mixture, ketchup, Worcestershire, and lemon juice; sauté for 30 seconds.

Deglaze pan with chicken stock while scraping bottom with a wooden spoon.  Using tongs, place the seared chicken thighs back into pan atop the rice, skin-side up.  Cover, then bake, undisturbed, for 50 minutes.

Remove pan from oven, leaving covered, and let rest for 10 minutes for chicken juices to redistribute. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S MORNING ALASKA WHOLE-WHEAT SOURDOUGH BREAD LOAF

This is a 1-hour initial rise ~ No stand-mixer required:

The longer the initial dough ball rise,
the stronger the sourdough flavor becomes
(e.g., 1-hour vs a 9-12 hour rise time)...

Yield: (1 loaf)

Prep: 7 Mins.

Total rising time: 1-2 hours

Bake: 35 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Proof:

1-1/2 cups lukewarm water

1 teaspoon active yeast (not rapid or instant)

1 tablespoon light agave (or honey)

Sponge:

1/2 cup ripe (fed) sourdough starter

Dry:

2 cups All-Purpose Flour

1 -1/2 cups Whole-Wheat Flour (I use King Arthur)

1-1/4 teaspoons kosher salt

--2 teaspoons Mazola oil

(For top and bottom of dough ball, so it doesn't stick or form crust while rising)

--2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

(For brushing top of loaf through mid-baking time, and post-baking time if you desire a more-tender and golden brown crust)

METHOD

Add to a small glass/plastic bowl, the lukewarm water, yeast, and agave; stir to combine. Let proof for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a medium glass/plastic bowl, add the flours, kosher salt, and sponge. Once the yeast mixture has proofed, add it to this mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon to combine. The dough will look rough and shaggy. Use clean hands to shape into a ball.

Place 2 tablespoons Mazola oil into a separate medium/glass bowl. Place the dough ball into the oiled bowl, swirling it around to coat; turn over and swirl a bit more. Spray bottom of plastic wrap and cover bowl. Place in a warm, non-draft area and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled. (Save plastic wrap.)

Spray a loaf pan and set aside.

Lightly oil working surface (not flour), and knead dough for 5-10 minutes, just until smooth and dough bounces back when depressed with your thumb.  Roll into a loaf shape, and place in prepared pan. Cover with reserved plastic wrap, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

Meanwhile, 15 minutes prior to final rise, preheat oven to 375F.

After loaf has fully risen, spray a sharp knife with oil and cut a 1/2" slit lengthwise across the top of loaf.

Bake for 15 minutes, and note which direction you take pan out of oven, turn pan and brush top of loaf with melted butter then return to oven to continue baking an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 192F.

Remove from oven, leaving loaf in pan and place, uncovered, on rack to cool for 5 minutes. Remove loaf from pan and place upright on rack, cover with clean kitchen towel and allow to completely cool before slicing.  

Wrap loosely in plastic wrap to store at room temperature up to 2 days. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S OVERNIGHT ALASKA SOURDOUGH BREAD LOAF

This is a 9-hour initial rise ~ No stand-mixer required:

The longer the initial dough ball rise,
the stronger the sourdough flavor becomes
(e.g., 1-hour vs a 9-12 hour rise time)...

Yield: (1 loaf)

Prep: 7 Mins.

Total rising time: 9-12 hours

Bake 35 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

 

Proof:

1-1/2 cups lukewarm water

1 teaspoon active yeast (not rapid or instant)

1 tablespoon light agave (or honey)

Sponge:

1/2 cup ripe (fed) sourdough starter

Dry:

3-1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour

1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

--2 teaspoons Mazola oil

(For top and bottom of dough ball, so it doesn't stick or form crust while rising)

--2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

(For brushing top of loaf through mid-baking time, and post-baking time if you desire a more-tender and golden brown crust)

METHOD

Add to a small glass/plastic bowl, the lukewarm water, yeast, and agave; stir to combine. Let proof for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a medium glass/plastic bowl, add the flour, kosher salt, and sponge. Once the yeast mixture has proofed, add it to this mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon to combine. The dough will look rough and shaggy. Using clean hands, shape into a ball.

Place 2 tablespoons Mazola oil into a separate medium/glass bowl. Place the dough ball into the bowl, swirling it around to coat; turn over and swirl a bit more. Spray bottom of plastic wrap and cover bowl. Place in a warm, non-draft area and let rise overnight for 9-12 hours...the longer the rise time, the more sourdough flavor you'll achieve. (Save plastic wrap.)

Spray a loaf pan and set aside.

Lightly oil working surface (not flour), and knead dough for 3-5 minutes, just until smooth and dough bounces back when depressed with your thumb.  Roll into a loaf shape, and place in prepared pan. Cover with reserved plastic wrap, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

Meanwhile, 15 minutes prior to final rise, preheat oven to 375F.

After loaf has fully risen, spray a sharp knife with oil and cut a 1/2" slit lengthwise across the top of loaf.

Bake for 15 minutes, and note which direction you take pan out of oven, turn pan and brush top of loaf with melted butter then return to oven to continue baking an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 192F.

Remove from oven, leaving loaf in pan and place, uncovered, on rack to cool for 5 minutes. Remove loaf from pan and place upright on rack, cover with clean kitchen towel and allow to completely cool before slicing.  

Wrap loosely in plastic wrap to store at room temperature up to 2 days. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S 24-HOUR REFRIGERATOR FUDGY ROCKY ROAD BROWNIES

Super fudgy, decadent and chilled brownies that are incredibly addicting,

but must be refrigerated for a minimum of 24 hrs to set...

Yield: 16 squares

Prep: 15 Mins.

Bake: 27 to 30 Mins.

Cool: 1 Hr.

Refrigerate: 24 Hrs.

INGREDIENTS

Brownie Batter:

6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2/3 cup milk chocolate chips

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup walnuts, chopped coarse

Topping:

2 cups miniature marshmallows

1/2 cup milk chocolate chips

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350F. Spray a 9x9" square baking dish with baking spray; set aside.

To make the brownie batter, in a heavy 1-1/2-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, unsweetened chocolate, and bittersweet chocolate, stirring constantly, just until smooth. Add sugar, stirring to incorporate, then remove pan from heat. Cool mixture 10 minutes.

In a small bowl beat the eggs with the vanilla extract.

After chocolate mixture has slightly cooled, stir in beaten egg-with vanilla extract mixture into saucepan, mix saucepan ingredients well with a wooden spoon until mixture is glossy and smooth.

Mix flour, walnuts and salt together in a separate small bowl; gently fold into chocolate mixture (do not over do this step).

Spread batter evenly into prepared baking dish.

For the topping, add 'topping' chocolate chips evenly over the batter layer, then marshmallows evenly over the chips.

Bake brownies, uncovered, in middle of oven for 27 to 30 minutes, until marshmallows are puffy and golden.

Cool brownies completely, uncovered, in dish on a rack for 1 hour. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 24 hours before cutting brownies into 16 equal squares (do not skip this step). ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S INSTANT POT CHICKEN THIGHS, POTATOES and CARROTS with GRAVY

All are cooked at the same time in your Instant Pot;

an easy recipe to learn to cook three things at the same time...

Servings: (4)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Pressure build: 10 Mins.

Cooking Time: 8 Mins. to saute, 13 Mins. under pressure, plus making gravy = 2 mins. longer

Pressure release: 10 Mins naturally, then 1 Min. quick release

INGREDIENTS

Spice Rub Mixture

1/2 tsp Onion Powder

1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper

1/4 tsp Poultry Seasoning

1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

1 tsp Paprika

1tsp Johnny's Seasoning Salt

For Cooking Chicken Thighs, Potatoes, Carrots and Gravy prep

2 Tbsp Olive Oil

4 Chicken Thighs (I use skin on, bone in)

1 1/2 cups low-sodium Chicken Broth

4 Medium Russet Potatoes peeled, and cut in fourths

3 Medium Carrots scrubbed, and cut in thirds

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 Tbsp Lemon Juice

For Gravy (slurry)

2 Tbsp cornstarch

1/4 cup cold water

METHOD

Put the spices in a small dish and mix together well. Sprinkle on both sides of chicken thighs.

Press the Sauté button on the Instant Pot. When the display reads Hot, add the olive oil.

Add 4 chicken thighs, skin side down, and brown on both sides, about 4 minutes per side, using long tongs to do so. Set aside on a plate.

When thighs are browned, carefully remove any remaining oil from the pot, reserving brown bits on bottom. Add broth to pot (still on Sauté mode), then deglaze by stirring while scraping remaining brown bits from bottom of pot.

Add potatoes, and rosemary.

Place trivet over potatoes, add chicken thighs on top of trivet.

Squeeze lemon juice over chicken.

Close Instant Pot lid and set steam release knob to Sealing position.

Cancel sauté mode.

Press Poultry, and use the - button to choose 13 minutes.

When cooking cycle ends, let it naturally release pressure for 5 to 10 minutes. (No longer.)

Turn off the Instant Pot.

Manually release the remaining pressure, (takes about 1 minute) and when the pin in the lid drops, carefully open the lid, facing it away from you.

Carefully remove steamer basket, including the chicken to a plate.

Carefully remove the trivet.

Remove potatoes and carrots with a slotted spoon placed aside from the chicken (not on top).

Make gravy from the drippings, turning the Instant Pot to sauté mode to make gravy.

Add the cornstarch slurry to the liquid in the pot (mix 2 Tbsp cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water), and whisk it into the hot liquid in the pot while scraping bottom). Keep stirring, just until it boils and thickens.

Turn off the Instant Pot; serve gravy over potatoes and/or carrots, with chicken thighs along side. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S HOMEMADE CINNAMON-RAISIN SWIRL BREAD

A quick 5-minute no-knead dough to prepare the night before,
then easy to roll out and add swirl filling upon waking the next morning
to enjoy throughout the day...

Yield: (1 loaf)

O/N Prep: 5 Mins./Overnight rise time: 9 -12 hours

Next Morning Prep: Roll/Add Spiral Filling: 10 Mins.
2nd Rise 1 Hr.
Bake 35 to 40 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon active yeast (not rapid or instant)

1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

1-1/2 cups slightly warm water (tepid)

--2 teaspoons Mazola oil

(For top and bottom of dough ball so it doesn't stick or form crust while rising in bowl)

Swirl filling
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 cup raisins

Brushing top
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

METHOD

Add flour and sugar to a medium-size bowl. Add yeast and kosher salt and stir thoroughly. Add barely warm (tepid) water, then stir thoroughly. The dough will look rough and shaggy.

Lightly oil top of dough using a paper towel, then oil your hands (to prevent dough sticking to them); turn dough in the bowl so the whole ball of dough is slightly coated with the oil.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Throw a kitchen towel over top and underneath of bowl and set it in a warm corner. Leave it alone for 9-12 hours. (Save plastic wrap).

When risen, roll dough into a 8x12" rectangle, sprinkle with ground cinnamon, then raisins. Use the rolling pin to roll these ingredients into dough by pressing across them.  Start at the short end of the dough rectangle and roll into a loaf, and pinch final rolled edge to seal.  Place loaf seam-side down into sprayed loaf pan.

Cover dough with same plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour.

About 15 minutes before the hour is up, preheat oven to 375F.

After the full hour, the dough will have risen and nearly doubled in size.

Use the tip of a sharp knife to score loaf top down the middle. Brush loaf with melted butter. Bake for 15 minutes, turn in oven, then bake for a final 20 - 25 minutes (until internal temp reaches 190F).

Remove bread from oven. Brush a final time with melted butter. Remove to a baking rack and wrap loaf in a clean kitchen towel to cool. Slice and serve! ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S QUICK HOMEMADE SAUERKRAUT with CARROTS

 Absolutely the freshest and best tasting sauerkraut,

in my humble opinion,

which is great on venison or moose Reuben grilled sandwiches

or Smoked Brat hot dogs...

Yield: (3 cups)

Prep: 5 Mins. (more time if shredding your own veggies)

Cook: 45 Mins.

Store: Refrigerated up to 2 wks

INGREDIENTS

1 (16-oz. pkg) Organic Shredded Cabbage and Carrots

--or 1/2 head of medium-size green cabbage thinly sliced into shreds and 1 shredded carrot on large holes of box grater--

1/4 cup distilled white vinegar

3/4 cup water

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon whole caraway seeds

METHOD

Add all the ingredients to a non-reactive Dutch Oven (or heavy-bottom stainless steel pot).  Stir, and bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes, while occasionally stirring.

Let sauerkraut cool completely.  Spoon into a glass quart-size wide-mouth Mason jar, cover with a plastic lid (not metal), and store up to 2 weeks in refrigerator. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S INSTANT (Ground) CORNED-BEEF-STYLE SEASONING BLEND

A quick and easy method in which to add
a corned-beef
flavor to 3 lbs of cooked (sliced/shredded) venison/moose/beef roast.

I came up with this recipe so I could prepare grilled Reuben sandwiches
any time to my heart's desire...

Yield: (1/2 tablespoon)

Prep: 5 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon ground mustard

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

--3 lbs sliced/shredded cooked venison/moose/beef

--1/2 cup hot broth (either venison/moose/beef)

METHOD

In a small bowl/ramekin, mix all ingredients.

Whisk spice mixture with 1/2 cup hot broth (venison/moose/beef). Add to 3 lbs. of sliced/shredded cooked venison/moose/beef; microwave for 2 minutes to incorporate spices into meat for a corned-beef flavor. 

Enjoy on your favorite Reuben grilled sandwich, or serve with steamed cabbage and carrots for a main dish!

SANDRA'S HOMEMADE THOUSAND ISLAND DRESSING

A classic dressing that I've been making for years!

It's my 'go to' dressing to enhance grilled Reuben sandwiches,
moose and venison burgers,
iceberg wedge salads,
as a dip for fresh veggie sticks, etc...

Yield: Appx. 2 cups

Prep: 15 mins.

Chill: 2 hrs. minimum

INGREDIENTS

1 cup prepared mayonnaise (I use Best Foods)

1/2 cup Ketchup (I use Heinz)

2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/4 cup finely diced sweet gherkins

1 large egg, hard boiled, cooled, peeled and finely diced

METHOD

Mix all ingredients in a small glass bowl. Transfer to a glass wide-mouth pint-size Mason jar, cover with a plastic lid, and chill for a minimum of 2 hours or up to 2 wks. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S EASY NO-KNEAD DUTCH OVEN CARAWAY BREAD

REVISED RECIPE to make "CARAWAY BREAD," as follows:

An easy 5-minute no-knead dough to prepare the night before,
then quick to prepare upon waking the next morning
to enjoy throughout the day...

Yields: (1 loaf)

Prep: 5 Mins.

Total rising time: 9 -12 hours

Bake 45 to 50 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon active yeast (not rapid or instant)

1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

1-1/2 cups slightly warm water (tepid)
1-1/2 tablespoons caraway seeds

--2 teaspoons olive oil

(For top and bottom of dough ball so it doesn't stick or form crust while rising)

--Dutch oven (should be at least 4 quarts in size) with its lid.

Note: (Do not oil Dutch Oven, bread will not stick while baking).

METHOD

Add flour to bowl. Add yeast and sea salt and stir thoroughly. Add barely warm (tepid) water and caraway seeds, then stir thoroughly. The dough will look rough and shaggy.

Lightly oil top of dough using a paper towel, then oil your hands (to prevent dough sticking to them); turn dough in the bowl and do so on this side so the whole ball of dough is slightly coated with the oil.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Throw a kitchen towel over top and underneath of bowl and set it in a warm corner. Leave it alone for 9-12 hours. (Save plastic wrap).

When risen, in the bowl, fold dough over on itself at 3 times, then reform into ball. Using a bit more olive oil on hands and bowl, if need be, to prevent sticking.

Cover dough with same plastic wrap and let it sit for 1 hour.

About 20 minutes before the hour is up, turn on oven to preheat at 450 degrees. Place an oven-safe Dutch Oven in oven to preheat at the same time as well.

Note: When removing Dutch Oven lid/pot from hot oven, 

be sure to do so using heavy pot holders, 

to a baking rack or stove top 'cold burner' 
as they will be hot enough to scorch standard kitchen towels.

After the full hour, the dough will have risen and nearly doubled in size. Quickly shape the dough into a round ball and drop it into the preheated Dutch Oven (be careful because it's really, really hot). Slash an 'X' on top of the dough with the tip of a sharp knife that's been sprayed w/oil. Place lid on hot Dutch Oven and carefully place in oven and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove lid from the Dutch Oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until crust is golden. Bread is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted in center reads 190 degrees.

Remove bread from oven, and lift loaf out to cool on a baking rack.. To keep warm for serving, wrap loaf in a clean kitchen towel. Slice and serve! ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tips: 

This bread is quite forgiving and can be left to rise from 9 to 12 hours, although the longer you let rise the more yeast flavor you'll end up with.

SANDRA'S ALASKAN 2-HOUR INSTANT POT "FROZEN" VENISON MOOSE ROAST

I like to make my venison/moose roast using this method,

without adding tomatoes and/or veggies,

so I have flavored, cooked and tender meat to use in MANY recipes.

Simply portion out cooked meat into separate Ziploc bags

to refrigerate and/or freeze to use in the future

(e.g., to transform into enchiladas, tacos, burritos, soups, stews,

French dip sandwiches, and more)...

Yield: 3 lb roast

Prep: 5 Mins.

Cook: 120 Mins.

Pressure: Appx build/decrease times at beg/end, respectively = 10 mins ea.; 20 mins. total

INGREDIENTS

3 lb. FROZEN venison/moose roast

--(thaw just enough to remove plastic/paper wrap and/or string);

--trim sinew and excess fat (as fat from venison does not have a pleasant feel on the palete)

1 pkg McCormick Dry Stew Seasoning mix

3 cups hot water

3 teaspoons beef base paste

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

2 tablespoons cider vinegar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire

METHOD

Place trivet in bottom of  instant pot, then place FROZEN venison/moose roast on top of it.  Add all the remaining ingredients to a 4-cup glass measure; whisk to combine, and pour over roast in Instant Pot.

Place lid on instant pot, close vent valve. Set to MANUAL; HIGH PRESSURE for 120 MINUTES. (Will take about 10 minutes to come up to pressure.)

At the end of 120 minutes, NATURAL RELEASE pressure (will take about 10 minutes). Lift lid, and remove roast. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip:

You will end up with about 3 cups of stock, which you can thicken to a gravy with a cornstarch or flour slurry, if so desired. 

I like to use my gravy separator, then freeze stock for soups/stews later on.

----I purchased the Instant Pot via Amazon Prime here:

Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer

SANDRA'S FAVORITE OVEN ROASTED POTATOES and PERFECT EGGS (for one)

My kind of 'comfort food,'
pretty much any time of the day...

Servings: (1)

Prep: 5 Mins.

Bake: 35-45 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1 large russet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2" cubes

1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic (or powder)

1/4 teaspoon granulated onion (or powder)

2 teaspoons Mazola oil

2 large eggs

METHOD

Preheat oven to 425F.

Spray an ovenproof 6x6" baking dish; set aside.

Place the cubed potatoes, seasoning salt, pepper, granulated garlic and onion, including Mazola oil into a gallon Ziploc bag and shake to combine. Pour seasoned potatoes into a single layer in prepared baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes.

Reduce oven temperature to 350F.

Crack eggs (individually, into a single layer) atop the hot potatoes. Return baking dish back to oven; continue baking, uncovered, at the lower temperature of 350F for an additional 10-20 minutes, until eggs are set to your liking.

Serve immediately in hot baking dish, with a cotton napkin underneath, placed onto a serving plate. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tips:

1) Most times I like this served 'as is,' although occasionally before serving I'll top with a few drops of Sriracha, or red taco sauce, or sliced pickled jalapenos, or homemade salsa.

2) This recipe can easily be doubled, just bake in an 8x8" baking dish - or - quadrupled, just bake in a 13x9" baking dish.

SANDRA'S ALASKA STEAMER CLAMS in a GARLIC-BUTTER-VODKA SAUCE

Yakutat Alaska white steamer clams
are prepared in a velvety garlic-butter-vodka sauce
to create my infamous side or main dish,
including adding crispy Texas toast dipping...

Servings: 4 as an appetizer or 2 as a main course

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cook: 20 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into 3 equal pats (divided)

3/4 cup finely chopped celery

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup chopped green onion, both white and green parts

1/2 cup chopped, fresh roma tomatoes

Yes, we ate all the steamer clams
and I ate the small cockle,
but we refrained from eating the starfish ;-)

2 pounds live steamer clams in shells, scrubbed

1/4 cup quality vodka

3-1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon dried sweet basil

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Tip: Prep all your ingredients ahead of time, including laying out your servings bowls.

Also, preheat your oven to 375F, then begin baking your garlic Texas toast, according to pkg directions, about 8-10 total minutes

(it's found in the freezer section of the market).

METHOD

In a large, high side sauté pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons/pats of butter. Add the finely chopped celery and sauté for 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic, green onions and chopped tomatoes, and sauté for 2 minutes.

With pan off heat, add the vodka to deglaze pan by scraping bottom.  Return pan to heat and add chicken broth, parsley, basil, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce to a rolling simmer, add clams, cover pan, and cook just until they open up, about 3-5 minutes (do not overcook).

Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Add remaining tablespoon/pat of butter and gently stir to incorporate. 

Serve immediately in shallow, wide bowls with hot and crispy garlic Texas toast for dipping. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S SNICKERDOODLE BISCOTTI DIPPERS

So satisfying with a nice cup of tea while dipping these tasty jewels,
or coffee, or hot chocolate...it's a win-win! Also, a perfect
tiramisu making substitute vs lady fingers...

Yields: 3 doz (appx)

Prep: 15 Mins.

Bake/Stand/Re-bake: Bake 30 Mins/Stand 15 Mins/Re-bake 10 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Cream Wet

2/3 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sift Dry

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons cream of tartar

1/4 teaspoon salt

Brush tops of logs (just before baking)

1 egg, beaten

Sprinkle Mix (just before re-baking)

3 tablespoons white sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

METHOD

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream together 2/3 cup sugar and butter for 5 minutes on low speed. Add in 2 eggs and vanilla, and continue to cream for 2 minutes longer.

Sift through a sieve placed over wet ingredients in stand mixer bowl, and shake to sift the flour, cinnamon, baking powder and soda, cream of tartar, and salt.

On a lightly floured surface, divide dough into two pieces. Roll each piece into a log about 12" long. Place logs on the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly so they are 2-1/2" wide (the will spread slightly while baking). Brush top of each log with the beaten egg.

Bake 30 minutes (turning baking sheet half way through baking), until golden and slightly cracked on top. [Do not turn off oven]. Cool for 15 minutes on baking sheet.

Carefully move logs to a cutting board, and using a serrated knife slice each log crosswise at a diagonal into 1/2 inch slices (I snack on the 4 end pieces that aren't as pretty, but oh so tasty ;). Flip each slice cut side down, and sprinkle with a cinnamon sugar mixture. Place back on baking sheet, and re-bake for an additional 10 minutes (turning baking sheet half way through baking), until toasted. (You should end up with 3 doz. 1'' thick by 3-1/2" wide biscotti after baking.)

Transfer biscotti to cool on a wire rack. Once completely cool, store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks (or freeze up to 6 months). ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S ICONIC INDIVIDUAL PEACH CRISPS

A classic family favorite,
the awesome peach crisp
served warm and topped off with ice cold French vanilla ice cream
~ oh so blissful...

Yields: 4 Individual (1-cup) ramekins
Prep time: 15 mins

Cook time: 40 mins

INGREDIENTS

Topping

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/3 cup light brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of kosher salt

1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces

1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick cooking)

Filling

3 cups (1-24 oz jar) Costco sliced peaches, drained, then cut into 1" pieces

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

--French Vanilla Ice Cream (if desired)

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 4 (1 cup) ramekins with nonstick cooking spray. Place all 4 prepared ramekins on a baking sheet; set aside.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Add the cold cubed butter and using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles the size of peas. Fold in the oats and transfer topping to the refrigerator to chill while preparing filling.

Add the peaches to a medium mixing bowl and sprinkle with flour and sugar. Stir until all of the peaches are well coated with the flour and sugar (let set 5 minutes). Scoop the peach filling equally into the prepared ramekins (that have been placed on the baking sheet), remove the topping from the refrigerator equally sprinkle on top of filling. 

Ready for the oven...

Bake for 40 minutes, until the topping is lightly golden brown and the juices are bubbling around the edges.

Hot out of the oven, now cooling...

Remove from the oven and transfer ramekins to a wire rack, using an oven mitt, to cool slightly before serving, top each with a scoop of French Vanilla Ice Cream. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip: This recipe also works using a 9x9x2" square baking dish versus these 4 ramekins!

SANDRA'S ALASKA SOURDOUGH GLAZED COFFEE CAKE

There's no better way to start your day than

with a piece of this incredible sourdough coffee cake

and a nice cup of hot coffee...

Servings: (9)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Bake: 30 to 35 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Cake

1 cup 'fed' sourdough starter  

--[Click this link for "Sandra's Homemade Sourdough Starter"]

1⁄3 cup Mazola oil

1 large egg

1 cup all-purpose flour

3⁄4 cup granulated sugar

1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon double-acting baking powder (or regular)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Topping

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1⁄2 cup dark brown sugar

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, cut into 1/4" cubes

Glaze

1 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted

2-1/2 tablespoons 2% milk

1/2 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract (or regular vanilla extract)

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350F. Spray a 9" square baking dish; set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk the egg. Add the sourdough starter and oil, whisk to combine.

In another bowl, sift through a sieve the remaining cake dry ingredients; add to sourdough mixture and switch to a spoon to combine batter.

Place batter into the prepared baking dish.

In a small bowl, add the cinnamon, brown sugar and flour topping ingredients.  Work in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until crumble-topping resembles the size of small peas. Sprinkle topping crumbles over batter in baking dish.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, just until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Meanwhile, prepare the glaze in a small bowl by sifting the confectioners' sugar, stir in milk and bourbon vanilla extract, and whisk to combine.  Once cake is done baking, drizzle the glaze over the top while warm.  Let the cake cool, then cut into 9 equal squares. Serve with your favorite cup of coffee. ~ Enjoy!