Cheese Please. A Day Filled #CookingWithCabot

Last week I was invited to one of my favorite spots in Tampa, The Epicurean Hotel, to taste, learn and cook with the tasty cheeses of Cabot Creamery. I joined a group of friends, local bloggers and Sunday Supper Founder, Isabel Reis Laessig for a day sure to be filled with cheesy deliciousness. 

The morning began with breakfast bar complete with yogurt and fresh fruit provided by Florida Milk.  It was loaded with toppings like granola, shredded coconut and a selection of Divine Chocolate – It was before 10 am but it’s it always time for Dark Chocolate with Pink Himalayan Salt or maybe you prefer Dark Chocolate and Mint! Either way everyone wins!

After a few cups of coffee and chatting with fellow attendees we had a front row seat as Chef Jimmy went live on Facebook to create a tasty bite, BBQ Teriyaki Vegetable and Cheddar Rolls, they are a fun twist on traditional Japanese Negimaki and perfect for your next cocktail party!

Back at the stove Chef Jimmy works with Lodge Cast Iron selection of cookware and whips up an another creamy cheese recipe. I LOVE great cookware that looks great too and had no idea Lodge made a line of enamel pots – did you know??

Next course, and a complete must have for a snowy weekend, was Tomato Basil Mac and Cheese created by Chef Jimmy Kennedy and served by the smiling Sunday Supper Founder, Isabel Reis Laessig.

After two amazing demos we moved to lunch at Elevage with the group to share a family style meal complete with THE most incredible tomato soup with mini grilled cheese. Heaven!

To complete the day – a cheese board creation “contest”. With so many tasty options I would say we were all winners!

Filet Mignon with Creamy Leek and Green Peppercorn Sauce + Kansas City Steak #GIVEAWAY

The holidays are all about bringing out your best and indulging in all your favorite recipes and flavors. My indulgently creamy fresh green peppercorn sauce is a traditional companion to steak. I couldn’t help but add and my other favorite filet mignon companion, leeks, to the creamy sauce. The bite of the bourbon and the tang of the brine-soaked green peppercorns offset the richness of the cream.

It is the perfect topping to your favorite steak and you just happen to be in luck… scroll down for the recipe and further details on the Kansas City Steak Company giveaway.

Crisp weather calls for cozy gatherings and great gifts to show loved ones how much you care. The Kansas City Steak Company adds the perfect touch to any celebration – big or small – and makes the perfect gift for your favorite steak lover! Check out their top sellers and learn how you can win your own filets!

KC Signature Gift Boxed Steak Combo

Includes Super-Trimmed Boneless Ribeye Steaks, Filet Mignon and Kansas City Strip Steaks. Plus, Steak and Prime Rib Seasoning packet and The Kansas City Steak Book.

Four 6 oz. Super-Trimmed™ Filets

This filet mignon is king — butter-tender, cut from the center of the finest aged tenderloin and hand selected from premium corn-fed Kansas beef.

Filet Mignon with Creamy Leek and Green Peppercorn Sauce

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh green peppercorns {packed in brine}
2 leeks, thinly sliced, well washed
2 tablespoons bourbon / whiskey
1/2 cup heavy {whipping} cream
Salt, as needed
METHOD

After cooking your filet, remove from pan to rest.
Add 1 1/2 cups of water to pan and using a flat spatula, scrap bits from bottom of pan and bring to a simmer. Add green pepper corns and leeks. Simmer for 5 minutes to soften leeks.

Add bourbon, simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove pan from heat and slowly add in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Place back on heat and simmer for 5 – 10 minutes until cream sauce begins to thicken. Taste. Add salt as needed.

Entertaining Tip:: Make this sauce ahead of time. Prepare a batch and refrigerated in an airtight container a day in advance. To reheat, transfer to a small saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently.

Kansas City Steaks Holiday 2016

See the full sweepstakes rules HERE

Disclosure Statement ~ For recipes, more gift ideas and special offers and more visit the Kansas City Steak Company website. This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Kansas City Steak, thank you for supporting the companies that make this blog possible!

Mini Stuffing Muffins {#SundaySupper}

Stuffing is one of the most popular dishes of a Thanksgiving meal, I thought why not try making it as fun appetizer bites served before the big meal OR as a fun twist on leftover stuffing recipe served Thanksgiving night or the next day.

mini-stuffing-muffins-for-thanksgiving-leftovers-krayl-funch-on-anappealingplan-com-1

metallic-thanksgiving-table-with-indian-corn-and-grapevinw-napkin-rings-over-view-1-1000x

You can use this recipe with any stuffing recipe or leftovers, the key is to add back in moisture then bake the muffins to ensure they stick together.

Serve your mini stuffing muffins with the a side of cranberry relish for a tangy fruity and colorful topping.

mini-stuffing-muffins-for-thanksgiving-leftovers-krayl-funch-on-anappealingplan-com-6553

MINI STUFFING MUFFINS RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon fresh chopped sage
1 cup stock, chicken/turkey or vegetable 
1/2 cup dried cranberries, rough chopped
4 cups stuffing – left over or pre-made

METHHOD

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°. Grease 12-cup mini-muffin pan with cooking spray.
  2. In a large skillet melt butter, add sage and cook on medium heat until sage begins to crisp.
  3. Add stock and bring to a boil. 
  4. Add chopped cranberries to liquid and allow to cook on medium for 2-3 minutes or until cranberries begin to absorb liquid.
  5. Pack the stuffing into the muffin cups and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden. Transfer to a rack and let stand for 5 minutes. Loosen the muffins with a sharp paring knife and lift them out.
  6. Serve warm with Cranberry Relish.

 

Whether you are a seasoned pro or it is your first time hosting Thanksgiving the number of details to keep track of can be daunting to say the least. You need the Ultimate Thanksgiving Planning Checklist.Get yours HERE.

krayls-ultimate-thanksgiving-planning-checklist-2016-get-access-button


How to Use Holiday Leftovers

Everyone loves the holidays, but often we’re left with way too much food. This week the Sunday Supper Community helps us spice up our leftovers and turn them into new and exciting dishes!

Thank you Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventure, for hosting.

Appetizers

Breakfast

Dessert

Mains

Sides

Soups

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Peach Burrata Pizza {#SundaySupper}

Say it isn’t so… summer can’t be coming to a close already. Can it? My garden is full of basil and the markets are full of peaches and other summer produce waiting to be discovered. I had to find a way to bring my late summer favorites together in one recipe – enter my Peach Burrata Pizza Recipe. With or without prosciutto the flavor combination of sweet late summer peaches, creamy cool burrata, fresh basil and pepper arugula are perfect for serving with chilled white wine out on the patio with friends or as a mid-week dinner date with your husband. 

Peach Burrata Pizza on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch

Peach Burrata Pizza on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch full peaches

It’s not my first time combining peaches and burrata but it is my first time pulling them together on a warm pizza crust and I am sold! The combination came to together based on one of my favorite pizza’s I first had in Atlantic City, New Jersey over 10 years ago. In a dark Italian restaurant, sitting at the bar with a friend we ordered an Arugula and Prosciutto Pizza not really knowing what we were getting into. From the first bite, the perfect combination of salty peppery goodness became a favorite and remains one to this day. I can’t help but to order it anytime it is on a menu.

Peach Burrata Pizza on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch on table

While the green arugula topped pizza is still my favorite, I have been looking for a new twists on it and with a container of burrata in my fridge just begging to be used up and a line of peaches ripening on the windowsill inspiration was easy to find. 

Peach Burrata Pizza on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch cut

 

KITCHEN TIPS::

Feel free to make your own pizza dough but for this recipe I used pre-made dough from the market. Store bought versions are easy to keep on hand and are perfect for a Sunday dinner or last minute weeknight supper.

Blue Cheese adds a bit of additional saltiness and works well with peaches however if you are sensitive to the flavor omit it in the recipe or replace it with feta.

Peach Burrata Pizza on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch with peaches

PEACH AND BURRATA PIZZA RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

1/2 pound homemade or store-bought pizza dough
salt and pepper, to taste
olive oil, for drizzling
1 cup fresh basil leaves, julianned
3 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
4-5 slices, proscuitto
8 ounces burrata cheese
2 cups baby arrugula leaves
additional basil micro greens

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat the oven and pizza stone to 450 degrees F.

On a chilled surface lightly dusted with corn meal, roll the dough out until it is thin in a rectangle or circle, depending upon your pizza stone shape. Transfer the dough to pizza stone. Drizzle dough with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, top with basil leaves, blue cheese and peaches.

Drizzle lightly with olive oil, salt and pepper lightly again. Place in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden, the cheese has melted and the peaches have caramelized.

Remove from the oven and top with burrata slices. Allow the burrata to sit on the pizza and warm through, about 5 minutes. Top with prosciutto and arugula. Sprinkle on the basil microgreens and serve warm.


“As summer comes to a close, many of us find our gardens overflowing with red, ripe tomatoes and foot-long zucchini. At the market, fresh sweet corn, cucumbers and berries are plentiful and reasonably priced. Everywhere we look this time of year, we can find produce at its peak! As foodies, we have the natural instinct to stretch out the goodness of the season as far as we can. We do this by finding the best ways to preserve the harvest. Of course, when foodies think about preserving the harvest, our first though is canning. But, preservation can be done in so many other ways besides canning.” Join the Sunday Supper Community this week as we celebrate How to Harvest Summer.

A Special Thank You to Caroline of Caroline’s Cooking for hosting this week!!

Condiments

Main dishes

Sides

Snacks

Dessert

Beverage

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.
Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Krayl On Instagram ~ Week of August 6th

#friyay 😃

I am ready to wash this week off and head into the weekend!!!👙

Who’s with me?? What are your plans for this perfect summer weekend? 🇺🇸⚓️


The August Calendar is here! This month we celebrate by hosting a BBQ with a gourmet hot dog bar, staying hydrated with herb infused water and creating a pineapple centerpiece to welcome a new neighbor. 🍍

Just a few of the special days in August 2016 are :: My Birthday! #NationalFriendshipDay, #NationalS’moresDay and so many other reasons to #CelebrateEveryday! So come along let’s get the summer celebration started!

Grab yours today + get my free updates :: http://bit.ly/KraylAugust2016Calendar

Happy Birthday to ME!!🍾🍾🍾

Stopping work a little early today to enjoy a little time by the pool.👙⚓️

THANK YOU to everyone for the birthday wishes, love + support over this past year! 😘😘😘

#happybirthdaytome #clink #champagnetoast #champagneproblems


Summertime and hot dogs go together like peanut and jelly. 🇺🇸

To make sure the menu at your next gathering is a crowd pleaser for guests of all ages {yes even those picky little ones}, set up a hotdog bar so guests can choose to make one of your specialty hotdog recipes or dream up their own creation by mixing and matching from a variety of toppings and flavors.🌭

I’m sharing my tips for Setting Up A Hot Dog Bar on the blog! http://2adw1ya 

#summerentertaining #anappealingplan #sundaysupper


Grilled summer corn… Is there anything better? 🌽

Well a farm fresh tomato might compete… 🍅

But that’s a story for another day.

In the farm world of yester-year there is a saying “knee-high by Fourth of July”. It means all is well with your corn crop and the growth is on schedule. Well these days you can get fresh corn as early as Memorial Day – or year round in some parts – but the I still believe the sweetest corn is late season corn grown in New Jersey {sorry… it’s the Jersey girl in me that I just can’t shake!}. 😍

Late season Jersey corn hardly needs butter, just a touch of salt and pepper and it is perfect! This weekend we are making regular grilled corn as well as Mexican Street Corn. 🌽

How do you take yours?

See the recipe on the blog :: http://bit.ly/GrilledMexicanCorn

#summergrillin #outdoorentertaining #anappealingplan


Yesterday after a client interior design consult I grabbed an ice coffee and took a stroll down to the small marina in town to check out the boats. {luckily I was in my nautical outfit and fit right in!}⚓️

It took me back to my summers growing up in CT… The sounds of the lines hitting the mast in the wind. The waves splashing against the edges of the dock. The smell of the salt air.🚤

I wish I could have stayed the rest of the afternoon but real life was calling … 💕

Where can you take 10 minutes today to take a break in your day and get outside and appreciate the summer season! Stroll down the street or in the garden. 🌱

#summerlovin #nauticallifestyle #anappealingplan


Rise + Shine!☕️

This week I am working on getting into more of a morning routine… And believe me I am not a morning person. So this night owl is waking up earlier, working out and committing to not letting technology be the first thing I reach for when I wake up.📲

Guess I better get off now….☀️

What’s your morning routine? Or what do you WANT your morning routine to look like?

#ownyourmorning

One pillow. Four ways.

On the blog today I’m showing you four ways to incorporate these summer inspired cabana striped pillow covers into your home!☀️

Fresh from my Seasonal Home Box – Summer 2016 – I love the pop of summertime they add to my bed and to the pool area!⚓️

See them all and find out more http://bit.ly/SummerHomeBoxReveal16

#seasonaldecor #seasonalliving #anappealingplan #seasonalhome

 Nothing like a summer stroll along the river to brighten your day! 😍

Make sure to get outside in nature everyday, even if it’s just for a moment! It will keep you grounded and serve as a reminder that the world is so much bigger than we are! 🌱🌳☀️

#nature #feetofinstagram #anappealingplan

This bed. Those tropical pillows. That green paint. The mirror. 

Good design makes me so happy! Loved all the special touches in our room for a mini getaway in Naples.🌴 

Where are you off to this weekend? 

#beachweekend #naples #anappealingplan #hoteldesign

Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.❤️Yesterday I experienced a major shift in my perspective that I have had for almost 20 years. MAJOR shift. It’s going to be interesting to see how this plays out in all aspects of my life. Stay tuned🍾What one thing can you shift your perspective on today to make a difference in your life? ☀️

#liveauthentic #anappealingplan #livebeautifully

How To Set Up A Hot Dog Bar {#SundaySupper}

Hotdogs and Summer get togethers go together like peanut and jelly. To make sure the menu at your next gathering is a crowd pleaser for guests of all ages {yes even those picky little ones}, set up a hotdog bar so guests can choose to make one of your specialty hotdog recipes or dream up their own creation by mixing and matching from a variety of toppings and flavors.

There is an updated version of this post on KraylFunch.com ~ 3 Creative Hot Dog Recipes.

How to set up a hotdog bar with toppings for your next summer gathering found on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch 4342

The classic American hotdog, grilled to perfection, placed in a toasted top cut hotdog bun, topped with ketchup and mustard is still incredibly popular at summer BBQ’s, ball parks and county fairs across this great nation however, a new breed of hotdogs is also claiming it’s rightful place at summer gatherings.

These new species of dogs offer topping combinations and flavors previously only found on dishes ordered in your local hipster neighborhoods and food trucks. But with a little planning and prep, you can bring these combinations to your own party by setting up a hotdog bar!

How to set up a hotdog bar with toppings for your next summer gathering found on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch 4302

How to set up a hotdog bar with toppings for your next summer gathering found on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch 4368

It’s summer and you are serving hot dogs… Place a few America flags into a glass vase, add a blue and white tablecloth and pull out your best flag platter for this gathering! 

Instead of plates, offer guests napkins, bakery papers, or in this case I cut a slit in a stack of glassine bags I had from and other event and they worked perfectly to hold the hot dogs and looks great on the hot dog bar!

How to set up a hotdog bar with toppings for your next summer gathering found on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch 4304

When it comes to the actual star of the show – the hot dog – I prefer to offer an all beef option as well as turkey dogs and a soy dog option. This way all of your guests have something they feel comfortable eating and can join the fun!

How to set up a hotdog bar with toppings for your next summer gathering found on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch 4286

How to set up a hotdog bar with toppings for your next summer gathering found on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch 4283

Along with the traditional toppings, offer guests a few new alternatives. If you have a few combinations you are fond of, group the toppings and place small signs with the name and ingredients so guests can give them a try or create their own new versions.

A few to consider Tropical Hot Dogs {Pineapple, Lime + Cilantro}, Korean Hot Dogs {Kimchi + Sriracha}, or Oaxacan Hot Dogs {Avocado and radish – inspired by one spotted in the August 2016 Family Circle Issue}.  {all recipes coming here soon!}


This week’s #SundaySupper event is all about the kids in your life and what they love to eat! No kids?  No problem…any recipe that is kid-friendly is welcome in this event. 

Thank you to the event host:  Ellen Folkman from Family Around The Table

Check out all the kid, and adult, friendly recipes from the Sunday Supper Community below and let me know what your favorite hot dog topping combination is in the comments!

Appetizers

Desserts

Main Dish

Snacks

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.
Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

How to Make Homemade Mozzarella {#SundaySupper #JuneDairyMonth}

My family has a running joke about how much I love cheese… I see no joke about it! I LOVE CHEESE! And I don’t try to hide it one bit, so when I heard June was National Dairy Month I knew this was my opportunity to finally put my passion into action!

I have several books on how to make cheese at home that to be honest, are currently being used more for decor on my coffee table than in the kitchen for their cheese recipes.  All of that is about to change. I am going to learn how to make homemade mozzarella cheese {with more varieties of cheese to follow}!

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 33

Like every great dish, in order to get the best end result you must begin with the best basic ingredients, in the case of homemade cheese, milk is the star of the ingredient list so selecting fresh quality Florida Dairy Farmers milk at the market is a must. Fortunately we have a local farm in town so I headed over and lucky me, 10 day old “Honey” was just beginning to see visitors and I got to love on this special little brown miracle. 

Krayl funch at the south tampa farm with the new baby calf honey #JuneDairyMonth

Krayl funch at the south tampa farm with the new baby calf honey #JuneDairyMonth 663

The remaining ingredients read more like a science experiment than pantry items. Liquid vegetable rennet, citric acid and non-chlorinated water. Sounds scary to me however, from what I have read making cheese really is more of a scientific formula but not scary at all. I think the scariest part is going to be that I will now have the power to create my favorite food right in my kitchen!

Unlike my usual recipe posts I have included the images within the recipe for how to make mozzarella – my reasoning being this is a slightly more difficult process than most recipes make it seem. Worth it, but more complex than simply following a recipe. There are details that can only be explained using visuals.

So let’s begin…

How to Make Homemade Mozzarella

Makes about 1 pound of mozzarella

Adapted from Artisan Cheese Making at Home by Mary Karlin

What You Need

Ingredients

1 1/4 cup bottled water, non-chlorinated
1 1/2 teaspoon citric acid
1/4 rennet tablet or 1/4 teaspoon liquid vegetable rennet
1 gallon milk, whole or 2%, not ultra-pasteurized, not homogenized
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for brine

Equipment

5 quart or larger non-reactive pot
Measuring cups and spoons
Digital read thermometer
Non-reactive knife, off-set spatula, or similar
Slotted spoon
Rubber spatula
Non-reactive whisk
Cheese cloth
Rubber Gloves

Instructions

1. In a non-reactive stock pot heat milk to 88 degrees over a slow heat over the course of 15-20 minutes. 

2. Measure out 1/4 cup of water in a separate bowl. Stir in the citric acid until dissolved.

3. Measure out 1 cup of water in a separate bowl. Stir in the rennet until dissolved.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 25

4. Pour the milk into the pot. Stir in the citric acid solution. Set the pot over medium-high heat and warm to 90°F, stirring gently.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 24

5. Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the rennet solution. Stir for 1 minute. Stop stirring, cover the pot, and let it sit for 15 minutes.

6. After 15 minutes, the milk should have set, and it should look and feel like soft silken tofu – although under the whey. If it is still liquidy, re-cover the pot and let it sit for another five minutes. Using your knife, cut the curds into 1 inch cubes and let sit for another 10 minutes.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 26

7. Place the pot back on the stove over medium heat and warm the curds to 105°F over 15 minutes. Stir slowly as the curds warm, but try not to break them up too much. The curds will eventually clump together and separate more completely from the yellow whey.

8. Remove the pan from the heat and continue stirring gently for another 10 minutes.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 39

9. The curds should now feel springy and stretchable, if not leave the curds for 10 minutes then test again.

10. Line a colander with cheese cloth and scoop curds into it with a slotted spoon. Let drain for 15 minutes, reserve the whey.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 42

11. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt to the whey and stir. Slowly heat over 30 minutes to 175 degrees.

12. In the meantime, wrap curds in cheese cloth, place on cutting board, flatten out and allow to dry out for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, open cloth and cut into 1/2 inch strips.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 44

13. Once the whey is up to temperature, place sliced curds on slotted spoon and dip into mixture to melt curds. Using gloves, begin to knead or pull the curds several times until shinny and stretchable, repeat dipping and melting as needed. Form curds into balls and place into a bowl of ice water to chill.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 45

14. The mozzarella can be used immediately or kept refrigerated for a week. To refrigerate, place the mozzarella in a small container filled with whey brine. Cover and refrigerate.

How to make homemade mozzarella on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch #JuneDairyMonth #SundaySupper @FloridaDairy 1000x 33

Please note, this recipe was adapted in my kitchen, with my tools, in my given environment, I want you to know that each of my three attempts turned out three slightly different textures of cheese. It seems cheese making is a true science {and art} and minor factors greatly impact the outcome. Be kind to yourself and try, try again if your first batch isn’t worthy of appearing on the cover of  Bon Appetite.

Since June is National Dairy Month I want to share a few interesting facts about the amazing community of Florida Dairy Farmers with you. 

Did you know that for generations, Florida’s more than 130 dairy-farming families have remained true to their values & committed to producing a fresh supply of wholesome, quality milk. These hardworking men & women are caretakers of their cows, stewards of the land, & leaders in their communities. The state’s more than 130 dairy farms are primarily owned and operated by second and third-generation farmers.

And just as interesting, there are about 123,000 dairy cows in Florida, each dairy cow produces about 6-8 gallons of milk each day and is milked 2-3 times per day that collectively produces about 2.34 billion pounds of milk a year. 

Don’t live in Florida? I am sure your state has a just as interesting group of farmers, take this month to research organizations or individual farms in your area.

FDF-horizontal-logo-with-website-300x168

 

 

Follow Florida Dairy on their social media accounts :: FacebookTwitterYouTubeInstagramPinterest

 

 

Meet our Farmers links: http://www.floridamilk.com/on-the-farm/meet-our-farmers/

On the Florida Dairy Farm: http://www.floridamilk.com/on-the-farm/

Florida Milk in the kitchen: http://www.floridamilk.com/in-the-kitchen/

Florida Milk in schools: http://www.floridamilk.com/in-the-schools/dairy-101/

Florida Milk in the news: http://www.floridamilk.com/in-the-news/blog/#page=1&sort=start_time&order=desc

Disclosure Statement: This post is sponsored by Florida Dairy Farmers in conjunction with a social media campaign through Sunday Supper LLC. All opinions are my own.

Please take a moment to visit the other Sunday Supper family contributors and check out their tasty recipes, all including milk!

Milk in the Morning:

Milk during the Day:

Milk in Desserts:

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.

Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement

Sesame Chicken + Green Herb Tahini Dipping Sauce {#SundaySupper}

Finger foods are perfect for entertaining, no doubt about it! I love to put an easy spin on classic party food recipes when I am hosting guests. Ingredients like, Black Sesame seeds have a great flavor and add a much needed pop of color to this Sesame Chicken Skewers with Green Herb Tahini dipping sauce recipe.

Sesame Chicken Skewers with Herb Tahini Dipping Sauce #AnAppealingPlan @KraylFunch 27 700x

Sometime in my teens, when I first starting expanding my cooking skills past more than frozen pizza squares, one of my first “real” recipes was Sesame Chicken Fingers. I would proudly cut chicken breast in strips, coated them with a batter mixture of eggs, flour and white sesame seeds then lightly fried them in vegetable oil. Of course being a teen, honey mustard dressing was served as a dipping sauce and they were a big hit with the family {my other recipes included Corned Beef + Cabbage, yes it is true}!

Sesame Chicken Skewers with Herb Tahini Dipping Sauce #AnAppealingPlan @KraylFunch 33 700x

Sesame Chicken Skewers with Herb Tahini Dipping Sauce #AnAppealingPlan @KraylFunch 37 700x

While chicken fingers are still a big hit at parties, these days I like to mix it up a bit when entertaining at home. For instance in this Sesame Chicken with green herb tahini sauce recipe, white sesame seeds have been replaced with black sesame seeds – they have a similar flavor but look just a touch more chic on the platter. And who doesn’t love that.

Honey mustard has also been replaced at this party as the dipping sauce by a fresh herb tahini sauce. It’s complex flavors pair well with the quick and easy chicken skewers and I highly suggest making extra to use on salads, sandwiches and as a dip for fresh carrots. It’s become a favorite in our house already!

Sesame Chicken Skewers with Herb Tahini Dipping Sauce #AnAppealingPlan @KraylFunch 44 700x

 

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If you haven’t guessed it yet, this week’s Sunday Supper is featuring recipes for Finger Foods! Perfect for entertaining, I love this topic and know you are going to love each and every recipe the community has shared. Have a look around and be sure to tell them Krayl sent you!

Pinky Appetizers

Manual Mains

Digit Desserts

Plus Bite-sized Pavlovas and More Finger Food Recipes from Sunday Supper Movement

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef + Cabbage

Corned Beef and Cabbage is a St. Patrick’s Day tradition dating back to… to forever I am pretty sure! This modern twist on the traditional recipe offers a new way to serve this classic slow cooker meal and offer everyone in the family an opportunity to customize their slow cooker corned beef + cabbage.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe by @KraylFunch #AnAppealingPlan place shamrocks next to board

Lets’ be honest – even if you aren’t Irish the remainder of the year, you most likely have claimed on St. Patrick’s Day that at least 1% of our blood line MUST be green! Luckily I have the family tree to prove my heritage but I happily welcome all those sporting their green and fellow revelers on this day an honorary spot in the family!

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe by @KraylFunch #AnAppealingPlan

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe by @KraylFunch #AnAppealingPlan lid on top

I have to admit I hardly ever use my slow cooker. I bought it for Pete a few years ago and thought for sure he would be slow cooking everything – that has not been the case. It pretty much sits in our cabinet as shiny as the day it was opened. 

See while Pete grew up in a family who relied on a slow cooker – called a crock pot in the 70’s + 80’s and a savor for any working mom – I don’t recall ever seeing one in my house growing up. I think he might be over it and I don’t have good baseline recipes to work off of.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe by @KraylFunch #AnAppealingPlan close up on beef

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe by @KraylFunch #AnAppealingPlan close up on cabbage

All that being said, I pulled out the shiny beauty, dusted her off and told her this was her lucky day! Not only was I prepared with a recipe but her name would be in the recipe title. She was one of the headliners of the meal – slow cooker corned beef and cabbage – it can’t be done with out her.

The recipe is in fact incredibly easy, especially when the beef comes marinated in the pickling spices as the one I found at the market. If you are not able to find one in this packaging there are pickling spice blends that will easily do the trick.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe by @KraylFunch #AnAppealingPlan offer 3 mustards

For a modern twist on the traditional slow cooker corned beef + cabbage dinner loaded on the plate try this take placed on platter or rustic cutting board. As a bonus it can be served as a dinner or as an appetizer. 

Slice the corned beef and cabbage into thin slices, place them on a cutting board and serve with a selection of mustards for variety. I recommend a grainy mustard, a Dijon mustard and a third wild card mustard of choice. If you are serving it as an appetizer add cornichons for color and flavor to your platter.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe by @KraylFunch #AnAppealingPlan view from above

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage

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Root Vegetable Soup with Herb Croutons {#SundaySupper}

Few dishes can comfort your body and your soul on a cold winter day than a hearty soup. This Root Vegetable Soup with Herb Croutons will chase away any chill and is perfect served for a weekday dinner or lunch on a snow day.

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch

Each year my husband and I pack up our winter clothes and head out west for our annual ski + snow board trip. The last few years we have be able to meet up with family and friends to spend the week enjoying the cold weather and if we are lucky a snow storm or two.

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch leeks chopped on counter

It has become my tradition on these ski trips to have a day or two by myself to head to the local market, cook up a new recipe, sip some wine and simply enjoy the day in the house while the others are on the slopes. Everyone wins on this day – I am a happy girl cooking and doing my thing and the frozen snowboarders are happy when they come home to a hot meal at the end of the long day.

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch chopped sage on cutting board

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch chopped sage croutons close

This year we traveled to Breckenridge, Colorado and rented a condo perfectly situated one block out of town and two blocks from the local market, which by the way I could have spent an entire day in looking at their selection of local, organic and speciality products. Also close by was the larger City Market where I was able to pick up a few additional ingredients for the Root Vegetable Soup and Herb Croutons.

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch soup in bowl

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch soup with croutons and sage

This soup recipe came about based on the best looking root vegetables at the market, a few ingredients that where already in the house from the last renters and one of my favorite winter herbs, Sage. Grated Gruyere cheese adds a touch of richness and saltiness to the croutons and to the soup in general – feel free to top off your bowl with a few extra grated teaspoons for extra flavor.

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch soup with croutons

As hoped, the soup was a huge hit. At the end of the day the gang of chilled skiers opened the door to a house filled with the warm aroma of a pot of soup on the stove and toasty croutons in the oven. The day and meal were a success for everyone. 

Root Vegetable Soup with Sage Croutons on AnAppealingPlan.com by @KraylFunch soup with carrots and parsnips

[yumprint-recipe id=’27’]This week the Sunday Supper is hosted by Cindy from Cindy’s Recipes and Writings, is celebrating with an incredible assortment of Root Vegetable Recipes sure to be a crowd favorite at family dinner or the next time you are entertaining at home. 

Be sure to stop by as many as you can and join the fun on Twitter as we share and chat all day :: @KraylFunch

Enjoy.

Appetizers

Breakfast

Main

Sides

Desserts

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement

Beef Tenderloin With Braised Onions For Your Holiday Dinner 

Growing up, Christmas Eve was the holiday dinner around the table in my house. My mom would create a wonderful menu, I would set the table with my sister and Grandmom Funch would arrive from New York, with her car filled with gifts, to stay over for the big night. The dinners were warm, cozy, full of anticipation and always incredibly tasty.

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - onions

To this day I love hosting Christmas Eve dinner – the night when the magic is so real you can feel it in the air. The question of what is to come is lingering and gathering friends and family around the table to celebrate at the peak of the magical Christmas season.

I love to try new recipes for Christmas Eve dinner and it’s my chance to make a special meal full of rich flavors and combinations. This year it will be Beef Tenderloin with Braised Onions and Thyme for my holiday dinner and I can not wait!

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - table right

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - table beef

The table will be set with my red and green Johnson Brothers Christmas tree dinnerware, green glassware and rustic silver  flatware. For the flowers, my favorite seeded Eucalyptus with a twist – no vase needed. Simply clip the branches and place them on the table down the center as your centerpiece and your serving platters. Place a single pinecone at each placesetting, add a few green glass votives for additional ambience and you are done with the Christmas Eve tablescape.

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - eucalyptus

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - pinecone napkin 4

A hostess note for serving beef – specifically tender prime cuts of beef – do not over cook your meat. I prefer to sear the outside to get a nice crust and then place in the oven to be cooked through. I also prefer my tenderloin to be served rare so I can appreciate all the flavor – of course be sure to use a meat thermometer when cooking and bring it up to temperature. It is super easy to further cook individual slices if guests prefer medium or well done, simply either place it briefly back in the oven or sear it on the stove top. 

Serve your beef tenderloin on a long white platter with several slices ready, a bunch of thyme springs and butter sautéed hericovert for a touch of color. The tenderloin will most likely continue to loose it’s juices so be sure your serving platter has edges to save your tablecloth!

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - beef 2

You really can’t go wrong when it comes to sides for your tenderloin but I love the traditional flavors of onions or mushrooms, especially in the winter months. Try thyme and wine-braised onions and a side of garlic herb cheese – amazing combination perfect for the holidays, or really any time of the year!

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - cheese close

Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - onions 2

 

[yumprint-recipe id=’19’]Holiday Dinner table with Beef Tenderloin with braised onions AnAppealingPlan.com by #KraylFunch #FLCattleWomen - plated 3

If you like this beef recipe you are going to LOVE all the recipes the Beef Website has to offer. They even have an entire section of beef entrees ready for you to incorporate beef into your holiday dinner! Learn more on the Florida Beef website.

Founded in 1961 as the Florida CowBelles, Inc., the Florida CattleWomen, Inc. (FCW) conduct and participate in a variety of activities that can be summed up in their Purpose: To foster the well-being of the beef industry through education and promotion, in cooperation with the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and Florida Beef Council.

Please visit + like the Florida CattleWomen Facebook Page. to learn more about the wonderful organization, the women involved and what they are serving this holiday season! Florida CattleWomen on Facebook.

Win A Holiday Dinner For Your Family!

$250 Gift Certificate – congratulation Gladys H. on winning!!

Disclosure :: While I have been compensated by the Florida CattleWomen Inc. the opinions, photography, reviews and ideas are all my own.