If I have one word of caution it's to be very careful mincing that habanero. Use rubber gloves or avoid touching it at all. This is the hottest pepper in the world folks, so if you do touch it while mincing, and then proceed to touch a crucial and sensitive body part, you'll discover the big "mistaica" real fast.     


Habanero Honey Sauce

1 cup water
1 6-ounce can tomato paste
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup molasses
1 teaspoon minced habanero pepper (1 pepper)
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon hickory smoke flavoring
1/3 cup white vinegar


Mango Ranch Dipping Sauce

1 8-ounce bottle Hidden Valley Ranch dressing
1/4 cup mango juice (Kern's is good)
1/2 jalapeno, minced
4 to 8 cups vegetable oil (as required by fryer)
10 chicken wings
salt
pepper

1. Prepare habanero honey sauce by combining all ingredients except the vinegar in a large saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer sauce for 1 hour uncovered, or until sauce reduces to about half of its original volume and thickens. Remove sauce from heat, mix in 1/3 cup white vinegar and cover.

2. Make the mango ranch dipping sauce by combining the ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and chill sauce until needed.

3. In your deep fryer, bring 4 to 8 cups of vegetable oil (or whatever is required by your fryer) to 375 degrees.

4. Drop in the wings and fry for 8 to 12 minutes or until the wings become golden brown. Drain wings for a few minutes on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

5. Put wings in a large metal or glass bowl, add 1/2 cup of the habanero honey sauce and toss the wings until they are all well-coated. Serve with dipping sauce on the side.

(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)

Makes 10 wings (plus sauce for 20 more).

Top Secret Recipes
version
by Todd Wilbur

The secret here is the addition of masa harina -- a corn flour

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 lb. of chicken breast fillets (approx. 3 fillets)
1/2 cup diced onion
1 clove garlic, pressed
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup masa harina
3 cups water
1 cup enchilada sauce
16 ounces Velveeta
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin

Garnish
shredded cheddar cheese
crumbled corn tortilla chips
pico de gallo

1. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken breasts to pot and brown for 4-5 minutes per side. Set chicken aside.

2. Add onions and garlic to pot and sauté over medium heat for about 2 minutes, or until onions begin to become translucent. Add chicken broth.

3. Combine masa harina with 2 cups of water in a medium bowl and whisk until blended. Add masa mixture to pot with onions, garlic and broth.

4. Add remaining water, enchilada sauce, cheese and spices to pot and bring mixture to a boil.

5. Shred the chicken into small, bite-size pieces and add it to the pot. Reduce heat and simmer soup for 30-40 minutes or until thick.

6. Serve soup in cups or bowls, and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled corn tortilla chips, and pico de gallo.

(http://www.topsecretrecipes.com)
Makes approx. 12 servings.

Pico de Gallo

2 medium tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup diced Spanish onion
2 teaspoons chopped fresh jalapeno pepper, seeded and de-ribbed
2 teaspoons finely minced fresh cilantro
Pinch of salt

  Printed from Allrecipes, Submitted by Faye

Ingredients:
4 skinless, boneless chicken
   breast halves
4 teaspoons taco seasoning mix
1 cup salsa
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)

Directions:

1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C)

2) Place chicken breasts in a lightly greased 9x13 inch
   baking dish. Sprinkle taco seasoning on both sides of chicken
   breasts, and pour salsa over all.

3) Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 25 to 35
   minutes, or until chicken is tender and juicy and its juices
   run clear.

4) Sprinkle chicken evenly with cheese, and continue
   baking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until cheese is
   melted and bubbly. Top with sour cream if desired, and serve.
Makes 4 servings

Makes 4 servings.
   Printed from Allrecipes, Submitted by Janet Roetzel

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Creole-style seasoning
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon freshly ground
   black pepper
1 pound large shrimp, peeled
   and deveined with tails attached
4 cups oil for frying

BUFFALO SAUCE:

4 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/2 tablespoons butter
6 ounces hot pepper sauce
1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Directions:

1) In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the flour,
   Creole-style seasoning, garlic powder, ground cayenne pepper, onion
   powder, and ground black pepper. Seal the bag and shake a few
   times to combine the ingredients well.
2) Rinse the shrimp under cold water and place them in the
   plastic bag with the flour mixture. Seal the bag and shake to
   coat all of the shrimp well with the flour mixture.
3) Place the coated shrimp on a cookie sheet and place in
   the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. Save remaining
   flour mixture in the bag.
4) In a mixing bowl, whisk together garlic, butter hot
   sauce and cayenne pepper; set aside. In a pot, heat the oil
   to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
5) Remove shrimp from refrigerator and shake a second time
   in flour mixture.
6) Place the shrimp in hot oil and fry until pink, about 2
   to 3 minutes. Immediately coat with buffalo sauce.

This is great for a New Years Eve gathering or any cold
   winter night. It's excellent served with cornbread. Works
   best when prepared the night before, and then reheated the
   next day. Prep Time: approx. 10 Minutes. Cook Time: approx.
   35 Minutes. Ready in: approx. 45 Minutes. Makes 6
   servings.
   Printed from Allrecipes, Submitted by Brenda
1 pound diced bacon
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 (15.5 ounce) can black-eyed
   peas with liquid
1 (14.5 ounce) can beef consomme
1 (29 ounce) can diced tomatoes

Directions:

1) In a large pot over medium high heat, saute the bacon
   until crisp. Set aside the bacon and drain the fat,
   reserving about 4 tablespoons of the fat in the pot. Add the
   celery onion and green bell pepper to the pot and saute in
   the bacon fat for 10 minutes, or until tender.
2) Add the peas, consomme and stewed tomatoes and allow to
   heat through, about 15 more minutes. Top with crumbled
   bacon when serving.

Take 12 fine, full-grown months; see that these are thoroughly cleansed from all old memories of bitterness, hate, and jealousy.

Cut these months into 30 or 31 equal parts. (This batch will keep for one year. Do not attempt to make more than one batch at a time-many people spoil the entire lot in this way.)

Prepare one day at a time as follows:

Into each day,
put 12 parts of faith,
11 of patience,
10 of courage,
nine of work (some people omit this ingredient and spoil the flavor of the rest),
eight of hope,
seven of fidelity,
six of open-mindedness,
five of kindness,
four of rest
( leaving this out is like leaving the oil out of the salad-don't do it ),
three of prayer,
two of meditation,
one of well-selected resolution.

If you have no conscientious scruples,
add a teaspoonful of good spirits,
a dash of fun,
a pinch of folly,
a sprinkling of play,
a heaping cupful of good humor.

Pour love liberally into the whole, and mix with strength.
Cook thoroughly in a warming heat.

Garnish with a few smiles
a sprig of joy;
then serve with quietness,
unselfishness,
cheerfulness-A
Happy New Year is a certainty

Baked Alaska

Cake and ice cream dessert topped with meringue -- vary.Different ice cream flavors for your signature dish.
Prep Time: approx. 20 Minutes. Cook Time:
approx. 40 Minutes. Ready in: approx. 11 Hours . Makes 1 - 8 inch round Alaska (16 servings).
  
2 quarts vanilla ice cream, softened
1 (18.25 ounce) package white
   cake mix
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
8 egg whites
1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 cup white sugar

Directions:

1) Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch round mixing
   bowl or deep 8-inch square container with foil. Spread ice
   cream in container, packing firmly. Cover and freeze 8
   hours or until firm.

2) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease
   and flour an 8x8 inch pan.

3) Prepare cake mix with egg and almond extract. Pour
   into prepared pan.

4) Bake in preheated oven according to package
   instructions, until center of cake springs back when lightly touched.

5) Beat egg whites with cream of tartar, salt and sugar
   until stiff peaks form.

6) Line a baking sheet with parchment or heavy brown
   paper. Place cake in center. Turn molded ice cream out onto
   cake. Quickly and prettily spread meringue over cake and
   ice cream, all the way to paper to seal. Return to
   freezer 2 hours.

7) Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

8) Bake the Alaska on the lowest shelf, 8 to 10 minutes,
   or until meringue is lightly browned. Serve at once.

SWPER SCADAN / HERRINGS FOR SUPPER
1 lb. medium sized herrings
1 large cooking apple
1½ lb. potatoes
1 salt-spoonful made mustard
1 salt-spoonful made sage
1 large onion
½ oz. margarine
Pepper and salt to taste

Clean herrings, bone and divide into fillets. Spread the insides with the mustard, sprinkle with salt and pepper and roll up. Peel and slice potatoes and onion; peel, core and slice apple. Put half the potatoes into a greased pie-dish, add apples, then onion and the herring rolls. Sprinkle with the sage. Cover with remainder of apple and potatoes and seasoning and half fill the dish with boiling water. Put little nuts of margarine on top, cover, and bake in a moderate oven for an hour; remove cover and leave in the oven for another half hour.

PICE AR Y MAEN / WELSH CAKES
Recipe No. 1

8 ozs. flour
2 ozs. margarine
3 ozs. sugar
¼ teaspoonful mixed spice
1 egg
½ teaspoonful of baking-powder
2 ozs. lard
2 ozs. currants
Pinch of salt
A little milk

Rub fat into flour. Add dry ingredients, then egg and milk. Mix into a stiff paste - as stiff as for short pastry. Roll out, cut into rounds and bake on a griddle until golden brown - about 3 to 4 minutes each side.

The tricky bit is to stop Bumble scoffing them all while they're still warm (smothered in butter).

---------------------------------

Recipe No. 2

1 lb. plain flour
¾ lb. butter or margarine or mixed with lard
1 teaspoonful baking-powder
¼ lb. currants

Mix with sweet milk, roll out, cut into rounds and bake on a griddle. Sprinkle with sugar.

Try health food shops.

Cardamon
Ellataria cardamomum
Zingiberaceae
Cardamon is one of the most expensive spices in the world. This is because each individual fruit pod containing the desired seed spice must be harvested from its flower stalk by hand. Flower stalks must be carefully examined and re-examined as the fruit pods develop at different rates. Harvested while still green and firm, the pods are then dried and sold.

Cardamon is especially popular in Scandinavia, Saudi Arabia, and India. About 1000 years ago, the Vikings discovered cardamom in their explorations and conquests around the Mediterranean. They introduced this spice to Scandinavia where it is still used extensively in baking spiced cakes and breads. The beduin of Saudi Arabia, who bartered for necessary supplies in towns well-positioned along ancient trade routes, have used cardamon for centuries in preparing and serving coffee. Indian cooks, who enjoy being in the native country of cardamon, use this spice in curries, pilafs, and in milky desserts.

Cardamon is a member of the ginger family. As a carminative and a stimulant, it warms the body and helps relieve indigestion and gas.


also take a look here

http://www.spice-n-ez.com/individual.htm

These bars are the perfect addition to any holiday bake sale. And with chocolate in every bite, they are sure to become a holiday favorite.
Source:

Estimated Times:

Preparation - 10 min | Cooking - 18 min | Cooling Time - 30 min cooling | Yields - 16

Ingredients:

30 NESTLÉ BUTTERFINGER Jingles, unwrapped
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup NESTLÉ TOLL HOUSE Baking Cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)

Directions:

PREHEAT oven to 375° F.

COMBINE flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt in large bowl.
BEAT granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until combined. Beat in eggs. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in Nestlé Jingles. Press into 9-inch-square baking pan.

BAKE for 18 to 20 minutes or until wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

NOTE: Try substituting NESTLÉ CRUNCH Jingles

Cowboy Cookie Mix in a Jar
Prep Time: approx. 25 Minutes. Ready
in: approx. 25 Minutes. Makes 3 dozen (18 servings).


1 1/3 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt


Directions
1 Layer the ingredients in a 1 quart jar in the order
given. Press each layer firmly in place before adding the
next layer.
2 Include a card with the following instructions: Cowboy
Cookie Mix in a Jar 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175
degrees C). Grease cookie sheets. 2. In a medium bowl, mix
together 1/2 cup melted butter or margarine, 1 egg, and 1
teaspoon of vanilla. Stir in the entire contents of the jar.
You may need to use your hands to finish mixing. Shape
into walnut sized balls. Place 2 inches apart on prepared
cookie sheets. 3. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes in the
preheated oven. Transfer from cookie sheets to cool on wire racks.

Peanut Butter Cookie MiX
3/4 cup chopped salted peanuts
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup peanut butter chips
1-1/2 cups flour mixed with 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon salt

Layer ingredients in jar in order given. Press each layer firmly in place before adding next ingredient.

Recipe to attach to jar:
Empty cookie mix in large mixing bowl; stir to combine. Add 1/2 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 egg slightly beaten and 1 teaspoon vanilla; mix until completely blended. Roll dough into walnut-sized balls. Place 2 inches apart on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350º for 11 to 13 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. Yield: 3 dozen.


Sand Art Brownies

Mix ingredients in a wide mouth quart size jar. Prep Time: approx. 20 Minutes. Ready in: approx. 20 Minutes. Makes 1 - 9x9 inch pan (12 servings).

5/8 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
2/3 cup white sugar
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup vanilla baking chips
1/2 cup walnuts


Directions
1 Mix the 5/8 cup of flour with salt. In a clean, wide
mouth 1 quart or 1 liter jar, layer the ingredients in the
order given. Starting with the flour and salt mixture, and
ending with the walnuts.
2 Attach a decorative tag to the out side of the jar with
the following directions: Sand Art Brownies: 1. Preheat
oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease one 9x9 inch
square baking pan. 2. Pour the contents of the jar into a
large bowl, and mix well. 3. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla, 2/3
cup vegetable oil, and 3 eggs. Beat until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake in the
preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes.

Sandcastle Brownie Mix
Prep Time: approx. 20 Minutes. Ready in: approx. 20 Minutes. Makes 2 dozen (24
servings).

1/3 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/3 cup flaked coconut
2/3 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup white sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour


Directions
1 In a 1 quart jar, layer the ingredients in the order
which they are listed. Be sure to pack down each layer
firmly as you go. Decorate the jar and attach a tag with the
following instructions:
2 To prepare Brownies, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175
degrees C). Grease an 8x8 inch pan.
3 In a medium bowl, combine 2 eggs, 2/3 cup of vegetable
oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; mix well. Gradually
stir in the contents of the jar until everything is well
blended. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.
4 Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a
toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.



Peanut Butter Cup Cookies in a Jar

Makes 2 1/2 dozen (12 servings).

3/4 cup white sugar 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda 8 peanut butter cups, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

Directions
1 Mix together the flour, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside.
2 Layer ingredients in order given in a 1 quart ''wide mouth'' canning jar. Press each layer firmly in place. It
will be a tight fit. Add chopped peanut butter cups last.
3 Attach these directions to Jar:

Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
1. Remove peanut butter cups from jar. Set aside.
2. Empty remaining cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Use your hands to throughly blend mix.
3. Add 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened at room temperature.
Add in 1 egg, slightly beaten, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
4. Mix until competely blended. You will need to finish mixing with your hands.
5. Mix in peanut butter cups.
6. Shape into walnut sized balls. Place 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets.
7. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 12 to 14 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool 5 minutes on
baking sheet. Remove cookies to racks to finish cooling. Makes 2 1/2 dozen cookies.


Chunky Chocolate Cookies in a jar

Makes 2.5 dozen (15 servings).
3/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 cup jumbo chocolate chips 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions
1 Mix together the flour, baking soda and baking powder
and salt. Set aside.
2 Layer ingredients in order in a 1 quart wide mouth
canning jar. Make sure you pack all down firmly before adding
the flour mixture - it will be a tight fit. NOTE: Wipe
down the inside of the jar after you add the cocoa powder.
3 Instructions to attach to jar:
Chunky Chocolate Cookies
1. Empty jar of cookie mix into a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to thoroughly blend mix.
2. Add 3/4 cup butter or margarine softened at room temp. Add 1 egg, slightly beaten, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
3. Mix until completely blended. The dough is sticky. you will need to finish mixing with your hands.
4. Shape into walnut size balls and place 2 inches apart on parchment lined baking sheets.
5. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 11 to 13 minutes Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet.
Remove to racks to finish cooling. Makes 3 dozen cookies.


Gourmet Cookie Mix in a Jar


This cookie-in-a-jar mix makes a wonderful gift, but it is so scrumptious, you will want to keep it for yourself!


1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 c white sugar
1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 c brown sugar
1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 c chopped nuts, your choice
1-1/4 c rolled oats 1/2 c chocolate chips
1 (5.5 ounce) milk chocolate bar

With wire whisk, mix flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Pour into jar and pack down level with heavy object. Mix oatmeal in a blender.

Grate chocolate bar and mix into the oatmeal. Pack on top of flour in jar. Add white sugar and pack down. Add brown sugar and pack down.

Layer chopped nuts on top of brown sugar. Finish layering jar with chocolate chips until even with the top. Use scissors to cut a nine-inch-diameter circle from the fabric of your choice. Center fabric circle over lid and secure with a band. Tie on a raffia or ribbon bow to cover the band.



Attach a card with the following directions:

~~~~Gourmet Cookies ~~~~

Preheat oven to 375. Spoon chocolate chips and nuts into small bowl, set aside. Spoon brown and white sugar into mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup margarine or butter, cream well. Add 1 egg and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, mix well. Pour oatmeal and flour mixture from jar into bowl, mix thoroughly. Roll into walnut-sized balls, place on slightly greased cookie sheet two inches apart.

Bake for 8-10 minutes. Yield: 3 dozen

********
I found these recipes on McCormicks Message boards posted by Linda

Hmmmmmmmmmmmm! I'd love to try this bread!

How does cardamom seeds look like? Ive actually never heard of them.. if you descirbe them for me, i'll be able to find them, I hope ;o)

We eat this all year round at home but traditionally on Christmas Eve every household in Greece bakes a Christopsomo or "Christ bread". The loaf is often decorated with engravings on the crust that represent aspects of the family's life and profession. A loaf from a fishing family might have a picture of a fish on it, for example. Here is the recipe for the Christopsomo.

1 package active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp ground cardamom seeds (seeds removed from the exterior husk) [OR crushed aniseed]
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup melted butter
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Grease an 8-inch circular cake pan.

Dissolve the yeast in the warm water and allow to stand for a few minutes.

Meanwhile, combine the sugar, salt, egg, milk, cardamom and butter in a large bowl and mix well. Add the yeast mixture, both types of flour, raisins and the walnuts. Mix well. If the dough is too moist, add a little all purpose flour to make softer dough.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead by hand until it is smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Shape into a round loaf.

Place the dough into the cake pan, cover with a towel and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled in volume. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350.

When risen, bake the loaf for 35 to 40 minutes or until brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

MELOMACARONA - Traditional Greek Christmas cookies soaked in honey syrup.

INGREDIENTS (makes about 40 pieces)

400 ml olive oil
120 g unsalted butter (at room temperature)
250 ml beer
4 ml ground cinnamon
1 ml ground cloves
orange peel (use the grated peel of one orange)
200 g sugar
350 g finely ground semolina
600 g flour
2.5 ml baking soda
2.5 ml baking powder
5 ml salt
300 g sugar (for the syrup)
500 g honey
250 ml water
60 g chopped walnuts

PROCEDURE
(1) Put the olive oil, butter, beer, cinnamon, cloves, orange peel and sugar in a mixing bowl and beat until they are thoroughly blended.
(2) Sift about one cup of flour with the baking soda, baking powder and salt, and blend into the mixture.
(3) Add the semolina, a cup at a time, into the mixture.
(4) Add the enough of the remaining flour, a cup at a time, until you get a rather firm dough (you may need a bit more or less than the amount mentioned in the ingredients list). Use your hands to do the mixing, as an electric mixer will be useless after the first two or three cups of flour have been added.
(5) Roll the dough into cylinders, about 5 cm long and 2 -3 cm in diameter, flatten them with your hands, and place them on cookie sheets greased with a little olive oil. Bake at 175 deg. C for half a hour.
(6) Remove the cookies from the oven, and let them cool for about half an hour.
(7) Make the syrup: mix the sugar, honey and water, and bring them to a boil. Cook on low heat for three minutes and skim off the foam that forms on top.
(8) Pour the hot syrup over the cookies, sprinkle them with the chopped walnuts and let them soak overnight.

You are quite welcome. Let me know how they turn out for you. Im making them this year for christmas.

Thank you so much! and thank your mom too! lol

This is the recipe my Mom has made for years.

3c sugar
1/2c light corn syrup
1/2c water
2 egg whites room tempurature
1tsp vanilla
2/3 c walnuts

place sugar, cornsyrup, and water in a heavy saucepan, cook and stir over medium heat untill sugar is dissolved. continue heating mixture without stirring untill it reaches the soft ball stage, 240 degress on a candy thermomater. meanwhile using an electric mixer beat egg whites untill stiff. pour half of syrup mixture into egg whites;beat while pouring. return remaning syrup to continue cooking untill it reaches the brittle stage,300 on thermametor. pour slowly into egg whites. continue beating mixture untill it reaches a non glossy stage when dropped with a spoon untill it holds soft peaks. if too stiff for mixer use a spoon for final beating. add vanilla and nuts pour into a buttered pan.
note; also yummy with raisins in it.

I grew up eating this at christmas and it melts in your mouth

start with a clear, sunny day with not much wind

I would love to have a good light and fluffy divinity recipe.

I am still looking for the sherbert recipe made with sunkist orange soda. If you have it, I would really appreciate it if you would share it with me.

making a basket hehe..

They must have enjoyed the hints.. I see no conflicts.. hehe..

Anyone else have any ideas or recipes to share.. :)

awwww

Okay, more infor on the car emergency kit..

here is a recommended list..

Battery powered radio and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
Blanket
Booster cables
Fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type)
First aid kit and manual
Bottled water and non-perishable high energy foods, such as granola bars, raisins and peanut butter.
Maps
Shovel
Tire repair kit and pump
Flares

Red Cross

the link is on the right hand column with all the little icons.. about half way down the scroll bar.. it says "Together We Prepare" :)

In my home.. we try to keep the commercial out of our holidays.. besides, I am usually on a very tight budget as it is.. This way.. I can give out gifts.. without feeling down cause I can't afford to go Christmas shopping.. alot of peeps get in sooo much debt.. and half the gifts anyway are baskets.. which cost very little to make to begin with..

Other ideas for baskets..

Coffee or Tea drinkers.. Select some fancy teas or coffees.. even throw in what you make from the recipes.. buy a coffee mug.. Unless you throw pottery.. (hehe) and throw in a few tea bisquits..

For someone who loves working puzzle books.. You can buy up several of them from the grocery store.. buy up a package of pens.. and even a dictionary for crosswords..

For the handy man..
get a bucket from (ice cream or peanut butter) and fill it with electrical tape, screws, or anything else he or she goes through..

For your little Artists.. paint brushes, coloring pencils, paper just to name a few..

Any type of hobby a friend or family member has you can build a basket for.. peeps pay way more then needed just for the convenience.. but, time it takes to put the baskets together is minimal.. slipping extra items in at the grocery store takes little time.. and putting the baskets together is minimal..

giving gifts from the heart is what matters most.. not what you spent!..

One year.. after my brother and father ended up touring the back roads and getting stuck.. we had to call out search and rescue on them.. I built up a survival kit for my fathers truck.. I pitched in a blanket I had in our hall closet.. I put in a flashlight, with some batteries, I put together a small first aid kit, as well as drinking water, peanut butter, granola bars, and several other things.. can't think of them at the moment.. I bought a plastic box from Walmart for like 5 dollars.. Paid out very little for this gift.. and it was my way of saying I cared.. I live in Wyoming.. and people often die in their cars if they aren't prepared in the winter.. I will get the link and add it in as to lists of recommended goods..

Instructions:
You will need:

Small condiment cups
Red,Green or any christmas cellophane paper
Small red or green ribbon
Bird feed or oatmeal
scissors

1) Fill condiment cup with bird food or oatmeal

2) Cut cellophane paper big enough to wrap around condiment cup

3) Lay condiment cup on cellophane and pull paper up around cup,so it looks like a little basket.

4) Cut pieces of ribbon long enough to tie closed the paper.

5) Type out the following saying and affix to cup,Needs to be small yet big enough to read:

Magic Reindeer Food
We carry Santa to your house
every Christmas Eve
You leave him milk and cookies
But no one leaves us feed
Please sprinke this in your yard
before you go to bed
It will help us find your house
and we'll be warm and fed

This really works and the little ones love it.So do the big kids...

A Memory Jar.. and I would like to share it with you..

Every year around the holidays.. you place a specified Jar in a set location.. tell your family to write up a fav memory from the past year.. and sign and date it.. Keep all these in the jar.. year after year..

then.. on New Years Eve.. after dinner usually.. sit everyone together and read the memories.. which will surly bring in a Happy New Year.. full of Happy memories

As the tradition grows.. it is fun to look back on the past years.. Since you don't empty out the jar.. :)

Wow Cathy you have some great ideas.

For Movie buffs..

A basket of goodies..

What to put in..

A punch card from the local Movie Rental Shop
A box of Microwave popcorn
Several boxes of candies and a six pack of soda..
You can even add a Video or DVD of a movie they enjoyed but haven't added to their collection.. and even two tickets to a local theater..

For all my cold weather friends...
Homemade Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:

10 c. non-fat dry milk powder
3 c. cocoa powder
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 2 lb. bag of powdered sugar
2 c. powdered non-dairy creamer

In large bowl combine all ingredients.
Stir well until thoroughly combined.
Store cocoa mixture in airtight container.

For 1 serving use 1/3 c. cocoa mixture,dash of salt and 3/4 c. boiling water.Can add tiny marshmallows.

Share with friends.
Makes great little gifts.Put in small canning jars.Decorate lid with piece of fabric cut with pinking shears and directions for 1 serving.

For youngen's or those tight on money.. or just want to make something special for a loved one.. why not make up a Coupon Book

if you have access to a puter they are simple to do.. some ideas

For Mom from a Teenager:
Free 2 hours of baby sitting
or
A day of Cleaning the kitchen

For Dad From a Teenager:
Will rake the yard
Will mow the grass

For a spouce:
Free 10 min back rub
Free night off from kids and stress
A candle light dinner

For a Grandparent:
Free Hug
Will do a chore

You get the idea.. I think.. :)

Make sure to put in several coupons and make a fancy cover for it.. I sure love it when my kids make them for me.. :)

For those parents with Teens getting ready to leave the nest..

Putting a scrap book together.. or a family cook book.. (3 ring binder and family recipes along with all the cute decos you wish to add are all you need for this.. and they will appreciate it.. You can get small little recipe books that you add the recipes in.. and put together a basket containing items such as measuring cups, whisks, Measuring spoons, maybe a timer.. and whatever else you see.. and most you can pick up at the grocery store..

From the home of Foxy Lady.. Thought I would share this recipe since it is that time of the Season.. :)


Eggnog
Makes 2 quarts. To guard against salmonella, these eggs are cooked. This also makes a richer, creamier, more decadent drink.

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar
12 egg yolks
4 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces brandy
4 ounces gold rum
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions:

1. Beat the sugar into the egg yolks until thickened and pale yellow. Set aside.
2. Bring the milk to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Slowly beat the hot milk into the egg yolk.
4. Pour the entire mixture back into the pan and place over low heat.
5. Stir constantly until the temperature reaches 150 degrees F or the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon.
6. Immediately remove the heat.
7. Strain into a large bowl and set aside to cool.
8. In a small bowl beat the cream until it is slightly thickened, then fold it into the cooled egg mixture.
9. Add the brandy, rum, vanilla, and nutmeg. Stir well.
10. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.
11. Serve ice cold in small glasses, serve from a medium punch bowl filled with one large block of ice.

Variations:

Apricot Nutmeg: Omit the brandy. Add 8 ounces apricot brandy along with the rum, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Banana Eggnog: Omit the rum. Add 4 ounces crčme de banana along with the brandy.
Cherry Eggnog: Omit the brandy. Add 8 ounces cherry brandy along with the rum.
Coconut Eggnog: Reduce the whole milk to 2 cups. Add 2 cups coconut milk along with the remaining whole milk. Proceed with the recipe as directed.
Jamaican Eggnog: Omit the gold rum. Add 4 ounces dark rum along with the brandy.
Spiced Eggnog: Omit the gold rum. Add 4 ounces spiced rum (such as Captain Morgan), ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, and ¼ teaspoon ground mace along with the vanilla and nutmeg.
Virgin Eggnog: (zero proof) Omit the brandy and gold rum. Add 1½ cups orange juice and 2 teaspoons rum flavoring (optional)

If you have someone who loves Chili.. make a basket.. in a brown paper sack.. with your own personal touch.. you can decorate it however you like.. and inside you can place all spices in one baggie.. and all the dried beans in other baggies.. all they have to do.. is add the hamburger and tomatoes.. You could also have a mix for cornbread allready prepared with a label instructing the wet ingredients they will need to add..

Hope this helps.. and Enjoy!!

OR for the woman who needs a little pamperin there is a bath salt recipe found on my web page.. inexpensive gifts to make
Compliments of Angel.. a dear friend of mine from IYT.. she also added some other ideas..

i should have added.....
a few things to think about when addin ur oil to the salts:) herbs and oils really do have magical properties...the medicinal powers of herbs are well known, helping people promote health and speed healing...but herbs have also been used since ancient times for awakening the power within...Native Americans use herbs for ceremonial purposes and vision quests...lighting sage to create a smoke is used universally to cleanse the spirit...the bible also makes many references to herbs used for purposes such as protection and purification...each herb is associated with a special energy and can be used by u to fulfill ur special needs...for instance... Patchouly can attract both love and money...Lavender promotes peace, love and healing...Peppermint wakes u up, gives u more energy...Rosemary gives mental clarity...now that u know this...u may wonder how to go about using the herbs... my favorite method is with herbal oils...these are oils which have the essence of the herb, and can be used with ease
Amber-Prosperity
Lavender-Healing, Peace, Love
Cedar-Purification, Love, Money, Psychic Power
Lilac-Protection
Cinnamon-Attraction, Speed
Magnolia-Fidelity
Coconut-Purification, Peace, Intuition
Musk-Attraction, Lust
Cypress-Comfort, Protection
Patchouly-Love, Money, Fertility
Frankincense-Purification, Luck, Protection, Spirituality
Rose-Love, Healing, Beauty
Frank & Myrrh-Protection, Purification, Spirituality
Sage-Wisdom, Purification
Gardenia-Love, Peace
Sandalwood-Protection, Purification,
Spirituality
Honeysuckle-Money, Psychic Powers
Vanilla-Love, Lust
Jasmine-Spiritual Love
Violet-Love, Healing, Peace
Juniper-Protection, Love
Wisteria-Mental Powers
*want more info on herbal oils check out a favorite site of mine... www.sunseye.com/index.htm/ ...im not bein partial to them cuz they r in florida...i think they have really good insight into oils:)by creatin a special bath salt for a sick friend or one whose down with a special blend of oils just might help:)...cant hurt:)
*Angel*
indulge urself with the first batch and soak til ur hearts content...for an extra bonus add 1/2 cup of powder milk...truely a delight...like in those expensive spas...now anybody can take a milk bath:)

Ideas for the Holiday Season..Here are some ideas for quick, easy and inexpensive gifts to make..

The Spiced Tea

2 Cups Tang
1 Cup Instant Tea
1 Package Lemonade *unsweetened*
1 1/2 Cups Sugar
1 Teas cinnamon
1/2 teas clove

Blend all ingredients and place in air tight containers.. I usually double or triple this recipe since I usually have quite a few to hand out to.. I use little pint sized jars.. make a tag on the puter (adding ingredients on one side, and a little inspirational note on the front) and place a swatch of cloth.. (xmas material for Christmas as an idea) and tie a bow on it..

Recipe and gift ideas from ScarletRose

Ingredients to layer in the jar. Do not mix them together just layer them. Not necessarily in the order given. Looks nicer if layering light ingredients to dark and switching them back and forth.

1 Cup plus 2 Tbs flour
2/3 Cup packed brown sugar
3/4 tsp salt
2/3 Cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 Cup baking cocoa
1/2 Cup chocolate chips
1/2 Cup chopped nuts

Then decorate with a swatch of cloth on the lid and a rubber band or ribbon to hold it on. I use 32 oz mayonaise jars since they are just the right size. Then add a tag all fancied up with the following on the back.

Brownies in a Jar

Just add
2/3 Cups vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla
3 eggs

In a bowl beat eggs, oil and vanilla. Add mix from jar and stir well. Bake in a 9x9 in. pan at 350 degrees for 34 - 38 mins.

Holiday gift ideas from ScarletRose

The Cuisine Mysteries of jasniepanicz.

Hot potatoes spread with a curdled milk – polish name “Ziemniaki Bryzgane”

Today, I have the pleasure of offering you an old ukrainian recipe, which has been very popular in eastern regions of Poland until present times.

Ingredients (for one ukrainian farmer or a standard family):

• 2 kgs of yellow potatoes
• 1 l. (or more) of , 4 days old, curdled milk
• one share of ordinary toothpaste
• a glass of water (not too cold)
• salt and pepper according to individual taste

Recipe:

Please, boil 2 kgs of yellow potatoes (put a teaspoon of salt into a boiling water and wait until potatoes are soft –around 20 minutes).

Then, go to the bathroom and clean your teeth with ordinary toothpaste (please, use a glass of, not too cold, water to leave your mouth clean). Warning: If you don’t posses your own teeth you should take out the prothesis to leave your mouth empty !!!.

Now, please, put the potatoes in a wooden bowl. Then pour a full glass of curdled milk to your clean mouth and spread it out firmly on yellow potatoes (the amount of curdled milk depends of your individual taste, only). The milk shouldn’t cover potatoes to avoid a souplike consistency

The cunsumption of plums and other fresh fruits not recommended for up to 24 hours following this dish.

Bon apetit!

Add whole milk to remaining portion of freezer, if any.
Prep Time: approx. 45 Minutes. Ready
   in: approx. 45 Minutes. Makes 4 quarts (32 servings).
   Printed from Allrecipes, Submitted by Donean
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened
   condensed milk
1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple
1 gallon orange soda

Directions:

1 Combine condensed milk, pineapple and orange soda in
   freezer canister of ice cream maker. Freeze according to
   manufacturer's directions.

The name sounds bad,but the soup is good.

Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 1 Hour
Ready In: 1 Hour 15 Minutes
Makes: 8 servings

Ingredients:

1 picked over turkey carcass
3 large carrots, chopped
1 (15 ounce) can cut green beans, drained
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped fresh spinach
1 cup chopped cabbage
2 cups white rice
5 cups water

Directions:

1. Pick your Thanksgiving turkey nearly clean. Dump the turkey and all of its debris, including the juices, into a large pot. Add green beans, celery, spinach, cabbage. Pour in enough water to cover everything.

2. Bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for an hour or so.

3. Remove all turkey bones and unwanted debris
Serve over cooked rice or by itself.

Does anyone have a recipe for orange sherbert made with Sunkist orange drink?

This is a recipe I had for Thanksgiving day dinner.Great & easy

1 large can peaches 20 oz.
1 Box french vanilla cake mix
Cinnamon
1 Stick butter

In a 13 x 9 inch pan
Pour 1 can of peaches
Sprinkle dry cake mix on top of peaches
Sprinkle on cinnamon
Cut pats of butter over top

Bake as a regular cake 350° oven

I have more gluten free recipies that would share if anyone wants them.

This is for those that can not do dairy products

Tofu Pumpkin Pie
8 ounces Firm Tofu
1 pie crust or no pie crust, just spray the bottom and sides of pie pan
1/3 cup Veg. oil
2 TBSP Lemon Juice
1/2 tsp. Salt
1/2 Cup Honey or light Agave Nectar
2 TBSP. Dark Agvar Nectar or Molasses
1 Can or 1 3/4 Cup Pumpkin Puree
1 1/4 tsp. Cinnamon (ground)
1/2 tsp. Powdered Ginger
1/4 tsp. Ground Cloves

Preheat oven to 350
Drain Tofu for 20 to 30 minutes and press between towels to extract as much moisture as possible. Crumble with fork.
In blender or food processor, combine Oil, Lemon Juice, and Salt. Add Tofu half at a time and process until smooth. With machine still running, add honey in a thin stream, then Molasses or Nectar in smae manner.
Add Pumpkin, Cinnamon, Ginger, and Cloves, process until smooth. Pour into pie crust and bake for 50 to 55 minutes or whem knife comes clean when inserted halfway between crust and center. (do not use pan under pie) Enjoy! My 4 year old grandson actually liked this one! Yeah!

A friend sent this to me today in an e-mail.glad you liked it.

Awwwwww, Linda.. where do you get these lovely poems? :o)))

Fold two hands together,
And express a dash of sorrow.
Marinate it overnight,
And work on it tomorrow.

Chop one grudge in tiny pieces,
Add several cups of love.
Dredge with a large sized smile,
Mix with the ingredients above.

Dissolve the hate within you,
By doing a good deed.
Cut in and help your friend,
If he/she should be in need.

Stir in laughter, love and kindness,
From the heart it has to come.
Toss with genuine forgiveness,
And give your friends some.

The amount of people served,
Will depend on you.
It can serve the whole wide world.
If you really want it to!!!

(author unknown)

Moist rolled pin-wheel cake

Ingredients:
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 cup pumpkin puree
3 eggs
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1 (8 ounce) package cream
   cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup confectioners' sugar

Directions:

1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease
   and flour a 9x13 inch jelly roll pan or cookie sheet.

2) In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking
   soda, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir in pumpkin puree, eggs,
   and lemon juice. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Spread
   the mixture evenly.

3) Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 15 minutes.

4) Lay a damp linen towel on the counter, sprinkle it with
   confectioner's sugar, and turn the cake onto the towel. Carefully
   roll the towel up (lengthwise) with the cake in it. Place
   the cake-in-towel on a cooling rack and let it cool for 20 minutes.

5) Make the icing: In an electric blender or with a wooden
   spoon, blend cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and sugar.

6) When the cake has cooled 20 minutes, unroll it spread
   icing onto it. Immediately re-roll (not in the towel this
   time), and wrap it with plastic wrap. Keep the cake
   refrigerated or freeze it for up to 2 weeks in aluminum foil.
 

Yum. Sounds wonderfu. Im always on the look out for new sweet tater recipies. Thanks

Heck, Linda, did you have to post that right now? I want some - NOW!

Once you taste this, you won't ever go back to the marshmallow-topped variety! I have peeled and cooked in the microwave,and also boiled the sweet potatoes. They taste the same no matter how you cook them. So, use the technique that works
best for you!

Prep Time: approx. 20 Minutes.
Cook Time: approx. 1 Hour 5 Minutes.
Ready in: approx. 1 Hour 25 Minutes.
Makes 8 servings.

5 sweet potatoes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 cup butter, softened
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2) Bake sweet potatoes 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until they begin to soften. Cool slightly, peel, and mash.

3) In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, salt,1/4 cup butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and heavy cream. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.

4) In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup butter, flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Mix with a pastry blender or your fingers to the consistency of course meal. Sprinkle over the sweet potato mixture.

5) Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until topping is crisp and lightly browned.

Recipe submitted by Heather