Monday, April 26, 2010

Salt Crusted Potatoes

I've seen many versions of salt crusted potatoes and thought I would give it a whirl. I love the sweetness of a baby red potato and then with the salt crust, yum! This really is the easiest recipe ever. Also, the skins of the potatoes come out super crisp and tender like parchment. Enjoy!

Salt Crusted Potatoes

2 Pounds Baby Red Potatoes
Olive Oil
Kosher Salt
Bay Leaves

Scrub potatoes and dry. Then toss with just enough olive oil to coat.
Place 1" of salt in a baking dish that is large enough to hold all the potatoes in a single layer, scatter a few bay leaves. Next place potatoes in salt and press into the salt so they are almost covered. Bake in a 375 degree oven until tender, about 45 minutes. Brush a bit of the salt off and serve immediately.

Friday, April 9, 2010

Mexican Chicken Chili


I made this a while ago when I was not feeling well, as I wanted something warm and a bit spicy. I loved the complex flavors, the subtle spice, and the amazing flavor all the ingredients added! I used a recipe from Williams Sonoma for White Turkey Chili, but changed a lot of the recipe, so here it is. I wish I would have thought of adding some crispy corn stips...maybe next time!

Mexican Chicken Chili

1 Chicken, cut into 8 pieces
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1Large Yellow Onion, diced
1 Tablespoon Ground Cumin
4 Garlic Cloves, minced
1 Pound Anaheim Chilies, roasted, peeled and diced
1 Jalapeno, seeded and finely minced
7 Cups Chicken Stock
3 Cans Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed
1 Tablespoon Dried Oregano
1/3 Cup Fresh Cilantro, minced
Shredded Jack Cheese & Sour Cream for serving

In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil and fry the chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, remove and place on a plate. Add the diced onion, cumin, and garlic and saute until soft and just turning golden. Next add the anaheim chilies, jalapeno, and chicken stock, and scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Remove the skin from the chicken and discard. Add the chicken to the pot and simmer until just tender, about 30-40 minutes. Remove from pan and cool slightly, shred chicken, discarding any bones, and add meat back to the pot. Next add the beans, oregano, and cilantro, and flavor with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer on low for about 30 more minutes so all flavors meld together.
Serve topped with jack cheese and sour cream.