Farmhouse Cookbook 3 Book Bundle:

Slow Cooking, Chicken Recipes & Easy Soup Recipes

By

F A Paris

Published By

www.deanburnpublications.com

Books Covered In This Bundle

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Contents:

Table of Contents

Book 1: Slow Cooking Heaven:

Introduction To Slow Cooking

What is a slow Cooker?

What are the advantages of slow cooking?

Rules of Engagement !

Preparing Meats:

Herbs, Spices & seasoning:

All about stock:

Making stock with your slow cooker:

General Preparation

Top Tips:

Freezing:

Thickening:

Accompaniments

Vegetables in Cheese Sauce

Boiled Potatoes in Butter & Oatmeal

Easy Boiled Rice

Couscous

Tasty Chicken Dishes

Traditional Chicken Casserole

Spicy Chicken casserole

Pot-Roast Chicken with Lemon

Orange Chicken Pot Roast

Mediterranean Chicken

Tasty Beef Dishes

Traditional Beef & Mushroom Stew

Beef & Ale Hotpot

Burgundy Beef Stew

Minced Beef & Macaroni

Highland Shepherd’s Pie

Spaghetti Bolognese

Chilli Con Carne

Tasty Lamb Dishes

Pot Roast Lamb Shank

Bacon & Lamb Stew

Braised Lamb with Port & Prunes

Cinnamon Lamb

Slow Cooking Hot-Pot

Healthy Stewed Shoulder of Lamb

Tasty Pork Dishes

Pork & Apple Casserole

Mediterranean Pork Casserole

BBQ Pork Ribs

Spicy Sausage Casserole

Pork Shoulder with Butterbeans in Apple Cider

Tasty Duck & Game Recipes

Duck Breast in Orange Sauce

Rabbit & Red Wine Stew

Pheasant with Cherries

Pheasant with Pancetta & Sweet Chestnuts

Venison & Cranberry Stew

Tasty Curries

Spicy Beef Curry

Caribbean Chicken Curry

Malaysian Style Chicken & Pineapple Curry

Lamb & Prune Curry

Vegetable & Chickpea Curry

Tasty Fish & Seafood Dishes

Spicy Fish Chowder

Tuna & Sweetcorn Casserole

Slow Cooker Chicken & Shrimp

Mixed Seafood Chowder

Seafood Gumbo

Conclusion

Book 2: Fantastic Chicken  Cookbook

Introduction

Chicken Breast With Parma Ham, Honey & Herbs

Sauté of Chicken with Lemon & Thyme

Spicy Chicken Casserole (1)

Spicy Chicken Casserole (2)

Honey Glazed Roast Chicken

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken

Creamy Chicken Curry With Pineapple

Sicilian Chicken

Spicy Chicken & Sweetcorn Soup

Pot-Roast Chicken with Lemon

Orange Chicken Pot Roast

Chicken Tikka Masala

Tandoori Chicken

Indonesian Style Chicken & Coconut Curry

Chicken & Smoked Ham Stew

Quick-Fry Lemon & Chilli Chicken

Chicken & Vegetable Kebabs

Chicken Waldorf

Curried Chicken Salad

Spatchcocked Chicken Stew

Fried Chicken With Lemon & Ginger

Spicy Moroccan Chicken Thighs

Chilli Chicken Schnitzels

Fried Chicken With Crème-Fresh & Paprika Sauce

Spicy Chicken Burgers

Chicken & Sweetcorn Chowder With Toasted Almonds

Lemon & Rosemary Roast Chicken

Traditional Coq au Vin

Chicken Breast Stuffed With Apricots & Cream Cheese

Herby Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Cream Cheese & Prunes

Book 3: Easy Soups

Introduction

General Hints & Tips

Making stock

Spicy Root Vegetable Soup

Cream of Mushroom Soup

Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup

French Onion Soup

Cream of Celery Soup

Potato & Leek Soup

Cucumber Soup

Farmhouse Cream of Tomato Soup

Cream of Cauliflower Soup

Ham & Lentil Soup

Spicy Chicken & Sweetcorn Soup

Slow Cooker Soups

Carrot & Red Lentil Soup

Cod & Haddock Chowder

Traditional Cock-A-Leekie Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Broth

Smoked Gammon & Sweet Potato

Traditional Ham & Pea

Summary

Copyright:

Farmhouse Kitchen Recipes:

Book 1: Slow Cooking Heaven:

Top Recipes From The Slow Cooking, Healthy Eating Cookbook

F. A. Paris

Published By

Deanburn Publications

Introduction To Slow Cooking

What is a slow Cooker?

Simply put, a slow cooker is a deep (usually ceramic) dish that is fitted with an electrical element

This device enables the food to be cooked without sticking to the bottom of the pot, for several hours and is usually pre-fixed to give a choice of high, low or medium heats.

What are the advantages of slow cooking?

The advantages of slow cooking cooking are numerous, especially if you have a busy lifestyle or a large family to contend with! I for one was brought up in a large family and so my mum had to compete between washing up, and creating good tasty meals with the minimum of fuss. The slow cooker there-fore hardly ever had time to cool down before the next meal was being lovingly created for the crock-pot.

So just what are the advantages of using a slow cooker to create your meals? Here is a short-list of the most obvious ones – just in case you are in any doubt!

         Economical: Less expensive cuts of meat can be used as the slow cooking method tenderises even the toughest joints. This is a great money-saver in the general house-hold budget.

         Convenient: Dishes can be prepared and set to cook thing in the morning, leaving the rest of the day for other things – such as going to work – or perhaps coffee with friends!

         Frees space: Using a crock-pot frees up the space on the cooker. This is especially handy for these large festival gatherings, where many dishes need cooked.

         Super Tasty: There is no doubt that the slow cooker produces extremely tasty meals, even from cheap cuts of meat – or an old hen! Meat cooked on the bone just falls away after 8 hours in a Slow Cooker. All the flavours of the ingredients really permeate the dish, meaning a super-tasty result.

Rules of Engagement !

Rather than repeat the obvious through-out this work, I have included several details that can be counted ‘as given’ when preparing slow cooker meals. These general rules are listed below, and should be referred to if and when needed, during your meal preparation.

Preparing Meats:

When preparing meat for the crock-pot, generally it should be cut into maximum 1” cubes, unless you are cooking meat on-the-bone. Also, excess fat should be removed before cooking.

The average daily consumption of red meat is about ¼ lb (100g) and so a cut of  1lb should serve around 4 persons at a sitting.

Before adding diced meat to the slow cooker, it is better to add plain flour into a bag and toss the meat within, untilcoated. This can then be browned in a frying pan and added to the slow cooker. Excess fat (especially from fatty meats like lamb) should be poured away before adding the meat.

Alternatively, especially with leaner cuts; after the meat has been removed from the frying pan, de-glaze the pan with a cup of stock or red wine and add the liquid to the slow cooker. This creates the base for a rich sauce.

When it comes to choosing the meat cuts for a slow cooker, as has already been mentioned, the ability to use cheaper cuts is what make the slow cooking process so attractive to many families. These cuts are generally found on the muscle bearing parts of the beast, such as the for-quarters, or lower hind-quarters.

If you put a cheap lamb shank for instance, into a slow cooker with some water; then the meat just falls off the bone 8 hours later and produces a tremendous lamb stew with the relevant additions of ingredients found in the ‘Spicy Lamb Stew’ recipe.

Herbs, Spices & seasoning:

Measuring herbs and spices can be difficult depending on whether you are using dried or fresh ingredients. Personally I am of the opinion that there is no need to go hunting for fresh herbs when slow cooking, in fact dried herbs have a more concentrated flavour and seem more resilient for crock-pot cooking.

However in general terms for the sake of measures, I would count 1 teaspoon of dried herbs equal to about  2-3 of fresh herbs. It is not an exact science and so experimentation is needed to suit individual tastes. This is exactly the same for salt – some people like to cook without adding any salt at all, especially in today’s health conscious climate. My own view again is that a meal prepared without salt is a waste of good ingredients!

As with most things in life – moderation is the name of the game. 

Chillies: Are another question as some like the scotch bonnet are exceptionally hot, while others like the jalapeno are quite mild. I find the best thing to do is experiment with one, then add more if needed.

Just like salt – it is easier to add than take away!

Curry spices:

All the curry recipes have of course a selection of the various spices that are used to produce a tasty curry, however I have to mention here – this is not rocket science ! Do not be afraid to experiment, particularly if you do not have the spices mentioned – but you do have others. For myself, a great part of the joy of cooking is to experiment and produce something that has maybe never been tried before; sure you will have your disasters – but it’s hardly the end of the world if you do!

another thing – if you prefer to use a pre-bought curry paste rather than make your own – go for it; or maybe try a mix between the two options, I’ve had some great success with this.   

All about stock:

In a very basic sense, stock is simply a liquid that you add to the slow cooker in order to flavour and cook the food. However when it comes to producing an exceptional meal to be remembered then the stock can make or break the whole dish (metaphorically speaking!)

You can make your own stock very simply, vegetable stock for instance is made by  boiling mixed vegetables and straining out the vegetables to make a vegetable stock.

Chicken stock can be made by following the same procedure with a chicken carcase.

Beef, lamb etc  is the same (pork bones should never be used for stock).

Making stock with your slow cooker:

Add a chicken carcase to your slow cooker along with some chopped vegetable pieces (trimmings will do), herbs for flavour; some salt & pepper. Cover with water and cook n ‘low’ overnight.

This makes an excellent general stock that can be strained and transferred to the freezer when cold, for use when needed.

Exactly the same procedure can be followed for a great vegetable, fish or meat stock.

Alternatively you can choose to take the easy route – and that is making your stock by adding 2-3 stock-cubes to about 4 pints (1.89 ltr) warm water (follow stock cube manufacturer’s instructions).

Remember though not to add salt until after you have added the stock-cubes and tasted the food as the stock-cubes themselves can be very salty.

Weights and measures. These are written down in US measurements with European measures in brackets.

General Preparation

Vegetable Preparation:

It is taken as read, that all vegetables have been properly cleaned and peeled, before chopped or diced according to the individual recipe.

Vegetables, especially root veg, should be chopped slightly smaller than usual to allow cooking at the same rate as the meat – if you are making a beef stew for instance.

Dried Beans & other Pulses:

These must be soaked overnight and then boiled for about ten minutes before adding to your dish.

Lentils however are ok to add with the rest of the ingredients.

Never use fresh kidney beans – they are highly toxic and can even be fatal, always go for the tinned variety as they are perfectly safe to eat.

Fluid Levels.

Most recipes in this book are for between 4-6 people. Regardless of the fluid levels advised for the recipes, it is imperative that the fluid level does not come within 1” of the top of the Slow Cooker. Also on the opposite side of the scale, the meat and vegetables must be covered to prevent improper cooking.

Depending on the size of your individual slow cooker, the given fluid measurements may be slightly out.

This guide should over-ride the instructions if need be, and is simply performed by adding or taking away the necessary amount in order to keep within acceptable parameters.

Sometimes depending on the recipe, there may be more stock than is necessary to provide for an adequate amount of sauce; if this is the case then simply pour away (or freeze for later) excess stock before adding thickener is possible.

It is taken as written that all stock is pre-heated before adding to the cooker.

Top Tips:

1.        A spoonful of sugar added, can act as a great flavour enhancer to most dishes. Honey or maple syrup can also be added.

2.       Ketchup or brown sauce can add an extra zing to most meat dishes.

3.       Soft veg like peppers, egg plant, mushrooms etc, should be added half way through if you want to maintain a ‘bite’ in them.

4.      Fruit such as apricots, plumbs and cherries can go well with meat dishes. Add about 30 mins before serving.

5.       Tomato relish or chutney can give an extra boost to most casseroles and stews.

6.       If food is too salty, try adding some apple cider or lemon juice to neutralise the saltiness.

7.       When cooking fatty meat, let the mixture cool after cooking and skim off the excess fat.

8.      Never lift the lid once cooking has begun, unless you really have to. This breaks the little water seal between the bowl and the lid, and means it takes another 15-20 minutes to reach temperature again.

Freezing:

Most slow cooker dishes freeze exceptionally well, and so lend themselves to be ‘made large’. This allows you to make more than you need and freeze for a later date. Simply place the extra into a suitable dish and let cool, before adding to the freezer.

This means that you can simply de-frost later and pop into the micro-wave for an ‘instant’ meal. Try serving up with a quick micro-wave 2 minute rice for an even quicker meal – it’s delicious with most stews or casseroles!

Thickening:

Even though the meat may have been covered in flour before adding to the Slow Cooker, most of the casserole dishes will need thickening. This is simply done about 15 minutes or so from the end of cooking, by adding 1 or 2 table spoonful’s of cornflour to a little cold water in a cup. Mix this to a thick consistency and add to the dish, stirring as you go. Arrow-root can also be used, as can any number of manufactured gravy thickeners on the market.

Check after 5 minutes or so and if needed, just repeat.

If you have too much stock for your requirements in the dish, then simply remove the excess before thickening.

Accompaniments

Slow Cooker meals are very versatile in general, and so lend themselves to a variety of different accompanying side dishes, some of which are mentioned at the end of each recipe.

However as an added incentive, I have included this short-list of different dishes that can be included with these slow cooker recipes.

I will make no apologies for the fact that these recipes are cooked out-with the slow cooker, as I believe most of us only possess one such cooker and are quite happy to utilise other dishes as and when required.

However some of these accompaniments can indeed be cooked in the slow cooker, if you have the ability or the desire to do so.

Vegetables in Cheese Sauce

Ingredients:

         Selection of mixed vegetables (baby carrots, cauliflower, baby sweetcorn); enough to fill a suitable oven-proof container or ashet.

         1 oz (25g) flour

         1 oz unsalted butter

         1 pint (0.47 ltr) full cream milk

         2 oz strong cheddar (grated)

         2 oz smoked cheese (grated)

         1 tsp grainy mustard

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Boil vegetables in a pot of water (some salt added) for 15 minutes.

Drain and add to the oven dish.

To make the sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan and add the flour, stirring into a paste with a wooden spoon. Add to a gentle heat and cook for a few minutes. This is called making the roux.

Remove from the heat and gradually add the milk, stirring as you go to avoid lumps forming. Add to a gentle heat and stir constantly as the mixture comes to the boil; add the grated cheese and mustard as well as some salt and pepper to season, all the while stirring gently.

Once the cheese sauce is formed, simply pour over your mixed vegetables. Sprinkle some cheese over the top and put the whole dish into a hot oven (200c) and cook for a further 15 minutes or so.

*****

Boiled Potatoes in Butter & Oatmeal

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb small potatoes (or medium potatoes chopped into 4 pieces or more)

         3 oz butter

         3 table spoons pinhead oatmeal (fine)

         Salt to season

Preparation:

Simply boil the potatoes for about 20 minutes, or until just beginning to break up.

Melt the butter and add to the pot, stirring carefully through the potatoes with a wooden spoon.

Scatter the oatmeal throughout the potatoes, mixing thoroughly.

Add salt to season and more butter or oatmeal to suit.

Place the whole mix onto a serving plate.

This must be my favourite accompaniment to most of the crockpot recipes – fantastic if done with new baby potatoes!

For delicious plain boiled potatoes with butter and a sprinkling of parsley to garnish; just follow the above but without the pinhead oatmeal.

For a creamy mashed potato, simply boil a little longer, drain and mash with butter and a little cream; making sure to crush out the lumps and produce a smooth consistency.

*****

Easy Boiled Rice

This might upset some people! However the fact is that these days rice can be micro-waved in just 2 minutes if bought from the store in these 2 minute rice bags.

So if you are running a busy house and just don’t have the time or the inclination to boil rice – go for it with the 2 minute variety!

If you have a bigger batch to make however, just alter the ingredients to suit and follow the traditional option as below.

Ingredients:

         4 oz rice

         ½ pint (0.25 ltr) water

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Rinse the rice under a cold tap to remove excess starch. Repeat two or three times.

Add to a saucepan with water and seasoning, cover with lid.

Simmer for approximately 15 minutes during which time every bit of water will have been absorbed and the rice well cooked.

Place in a rice serving dish with perforated bottom (double skin) and a tight lid for a good fluffy rice.

Add some lemon or lime zest for that extra ‘zing’.

*****

Couscous

This is a delightful addition that goes with just about any main dish.

Ingredients:

         8 oz (226g) couscous

         1 pint (0.47 ltr) chicken stock

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Add water to pan and bring to the boil, adding seasoning.

Add the couscous to the water and allow to stand for about 5 minutes.

Add the couscous to a serving dish.

*****

Tasty Chicken Dishes

I often  wonder  just what mankind would do if God hadn’t created chicken!

Here are some top tasty chicken dishes that will delight your family and tingle the taste-buds.

As a quick note about the chicken dishes, and in especial the casserole’s. These dishes I have made with chicken breasts mainly diced for the dishes concerned, owing to some family squeamishness; however it is a fact that chicken ‘on the bone’ has more flavour in general.

If you are ok  with eating chicken served this way, then I would highly recommend it as chicken just falls away from the bone when done in the slow cooker, and indeed adds a great flavour to the dish.

Traditional Chicken Casserole

(serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 Chicken thighs

         2 large carrots (chopped)

         1 large onion (sliced)

         6 baby sweetcorn (chopped)

         2 parsnips (chopped)

         3 table spoons long grain rice

         1 ¼ pints (0.70 ltr) chicken stock

         1 oz (28g) unsalted butter

         1 table spoon olive oil

         2 table spoons plain flour.

         1 table spoon mixed dry herbs

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

After removing any excess fat from the chicken thighs, coat with the flour and pan fry skin-side down in the butter and oil mix for approx. 5 minutes.

Add to the slow cooker, then add the chicken stock and all other ingredients.

Cook for around 6-8 hours on a low setting.

Ten minutes from the end, add cornflour to thicken; salt and pepper to season.

*****

Spicy Chicken casserole

(serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         2lb (0.90kg) diced chicken

         8 whole shallots (peeled)

         2 large carrots (chopped)

         2 large parsnips (chopped)

         6 baby sweet corn (chopped)

         2 medium hot peppers (finely chopped)

         1 medium yellow pepper (chopped)

         1 medium green pepper (chopped)

         1 ¼  pint (0.59 ltr) chicken stock

         1 14 oz tin chicken soup concentrate

         1 table spoon dry mixed herbs

         1 oz butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

         3 table spoons plain flour

Preparation:

Add the flour into a container, then mix through the diced chicken pieces. Add the chicken into a hot pan with the butter and oil, browning for a few minutes.

Add to the slow cooker.

Add the rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on ‘low’ for 6-8 hours.

When almost done, add cornflour to thicken; taste and add more salt if needed.

*****

Pot-Roast Chicken with Lemon

(Serves 6-8)

Ingredients:

         1 small chicken (able to fit in slow cooker)

         1 Large onion (chopped)

         3 carrots (chopped or sliced)

         2 lemons cut into wedges

         2 table spoons olive oil

         1 table spoon of honey

         2 tsp French mustard

         2 sticks of celery (sliced thick)

         2 tsp spoons dried tarragon or rosemary

         1 glass cider

         1.5 pints (0.70ltr) chicken stock

         1 dollop of butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the chicken to a large hot frying pan with the oil and butter; fry for approx. ten minutes turning the chicken several times until the chicken is browned all over.

Carefully place the chicken into the Slow Cooker.

Add the chopped onion, mustard honey and cider into the frying pan and bring to the boil. Pour the liquid over the chicken, being sure to get all the gravy including the ‘bits and pieces’.

Add the chicken stock along with all the chopped vegetables, and lemon wedges making sure that the chicken is covered with the liquid.

Cook on medium for about six hours or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the juice runs clear when the thickest parts are pierced with a knife.

Taste the gravy and add seasoning to suit.

When cooked, remove and carve the usual way. Add some thickener to the remaining mixture (skimming any excess fat from the surface) and serve with the gravy and vegetables.

*****

Orange Chicken Pot Roast

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

         4 chicken thighs

         4 chicken drumsticks

         3 carrots (chopped)

         1 large onion (sliced)

         4 oz (113g) chopped mushrooms

         8 baby sweet-corn (chopped)

         1 orange cut into 6 pieces

         2  pints (0.98 ltr) chicken stock

         1 clove of garlic (crushed)

         2 table spoons olive oil

         2 large table spoons orange marmalade

         1 dollop of unsalted butter

         2 tsp of dried tyme

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the chicken pieces into a hot saucepan along with the oil and butter. Fry for approximately ten minutes, turning constantly until the chicken is browned all over.

Add the chicken to the Slow Cooker.

Drain off any excess fat from the pan (leaving stock) and add your crushed garlic, onion and mushroom; fry for a few minutes then add half of the chicken stock. Bring to the boil for a few minutes.

Add the mixture along with the rest of the ingredients to the cooker and set on low for 6-8 hours.

When nearly done, add thickener to suit and salt and pepper to taste.

*****

Mediterranean Chicken

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         6 chicken thighs

         2 tins chopped tomatoes

         2 pints (0.98 ltrs) chicken stock

         4 oz (113g) mushrooms

         2 cloves garlic (crushed)

         1 onion (sliced)

         2 oz (56g) sun dried tomatoes in oil

         2 oz (56g) pitted black olives

         2 sprigs of rosemary

         2 tsp of dried mixed herbs

         2 chopped hot peppers

         1 red pepper (chopped)

         1 green pepper (chopped

         2 tablespoons of olive oil

         1 dollop of unsalted butter

         Salt and Crushed pepper to season

Preparation:

Fry the chicken pieces in a large saucepan along with the butter and oil, turning for around 10 minutes until browned all over, add to the slow cooker.

Add to the hot pan the chopped onion, garlic chopped peppers and mushrooms; fry for 2-3 minutes. Add the  tins of chopped tomatoes. Bring all to the boil for 5 minutes, then add the whole mix to the slow cooker.

Add the rest of the ingredients and set of ‘low’ for approx. 8 hours.

Taste and add seasoning to suit.

Delicious served on its own or on a bed of couscous or boiled rice.

*****

Tasty Beef Dishes

Traditional Beef & Mushroom Stew

(Serves 3-4)

Ingredients:

         1 lb (453g) stewing steak (diced)

         4 oz (113g) mushrooms (chopped)

         1 large onion (sliced)

         1 parsnip (chopped)

         2 large carrots (chopped)

         1 large glass red wine

         1 table spoon of tomato puree

         2 table spoons sunflower oil

         1.5 pints (0.70 ltrs)

         1 oz of butter

         2 tsp of dried mixed herbs

         2 table spoons seasoned plain flour

         Salt & crushed black pepper to season

Preparation:

Place the diced beef into a bag along with the flour (pre-seasoned with salt & pepper). Toss the mixture around until the meat is fully coated.

Add the oil and butter into a hot sauce-pan then the meat, and fry for a few minutes until browned. Remove and add into the slow cooker, then repeat with the second half of the meat.

Into the saucepan add the glass of red wine, tomato puree, chopped onion and the herbs. Simmer for a few minutes then add to the slow cooker, being sure to include the scrapings from the pan, along with the rest of the ingredients.

Set the cooker to ‘low’ and let cook for 6-8 hours. Ten minutes before serving add some cornflour to thicken, and season with salt & pepper to suit. Continue cooking for further ten minutes.

This dish has an excellent full rich flavour and can be served with any number of accompanying side dishes, such as potatoes and veg, or boiled rice.

*****

Beef & Ale Hotpot

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

         2 lb (907g) stewing steak (diced)

         1 large onion (chopped)

         3 table spoons plain flour (seasoned)

         1.5 pints (0.70 ltrs) brown ale

         2 table spoons grainy mustard

         2 table spoons tomato puree

         1.5 lb (680g) potatoes (thin sliced)

         1 small turnip or suede

         2 table spoons oil

         1 table spoon dark cane sugar

         1 oz butter

         2 sprigs of rosemary

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the seasoned flour to a bag or container, then add the diced beef and toss until the meat is fully coated. Into a hot deep saucepan add the oil and butter, then fry half the meat until browned all over, remove and place in the Slow Cooker. Repeat with the second half of the meat.

Add the onions, tomato puree, mustard, salt & pepper and rosemary to the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, then add the beer. Simmer for a further few minutes, then add the mixture along with the rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker.

Set on medium and cook for 5-6 hours. Taste and thicken as necessary.

Makes a fantastic main meal especially if served on a large Yorkshire Pudding along with some boiled potatoes in butter & oatmeal.

*****

Burgundy Beef Stew

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1.5 lb (750g) braising beef

         1 large onion (chopped)

         2 garlic cloves

         1 hot chilli (finely chopped)

         2 carrots (chopped)

         6 oz leeks (chopped)

         Half pint (0.23 ltr) of burgundy wine

         ¾ pint (0.35 ltr) beef stock

         1 tin chopped tomatoes

         2 table spoons fresh torn basil

         1 table spoon of tomato puree

         2 table spoons plain flour

         2 table spoons oil

         1 oz butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the pre-seasoned flour to a container along with the diced beef and mix thoroughly until the meat is coated.

Add the oil and butter to a hot, deep saucepan; then fry off the meat, turning until browned all over. Remove from the pan and add to the slow cooker.

To the hot pan add the chopped onions and garlic; sweat off till the onions go opaque in colour then add the wine, rosemary, basil, tomato puree, and tomatoes. Simmer for a few minutes then add to the slow cooker.

Add the rest of the ingredients, including your hot beef stock.

Cook for 8-10 hours on a ‘low’ setting, then thicken and season in accordance to earlier instructions for beef stew.

*****

Minced Beef & Macaroni

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 lb (453g) minced beef

         1 oz mushrooms (chopped or sliced)

         1 large onion (sliced)

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         1 can chopped tomatoes (13oz)

         ¼ pint (0.12 ltr) boiling water

         1 pint (0.48 ltr) chicken or beef stock

         2 table spoons tomato ketchup

         1 table spoon tomato puree

         8 oz (250g) dried macaroni twists

         2 table spoons vegetable oil

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the oil to a frying pan, then add the beef and the chopped onion. Stir and fry gently until the meat is browned.

Add the chopped tomatoes, garlic, ketchup, puree and stock. Simmer for 5 minutes then add the whole mix along with the rest of the ingredients, to the slow cooker.

Cook for 6-8 hours on ‘low’. Taste and add seasoning to flavour.

When the dish is cooked and ready to serve, boil the macaroni for approximately 10 minutes, adding a little olive oil & salt to the water (oil prevents sticking). When tender, drain the water the add the macaroni to the cooked mince, stirring through the mixture.

*****

Highland Shepherd’s Pie

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 lb (453g) lean steak mince

         1 large onion (diced)

         2 medium sized carrots (chopped)

         6 green beans/runner beans (chopped)

         3 baby sweet corn (chopped)

         ½ pint (0.24 ltr) beef stock

         1 glass red wine (optional)

         1 ½ lb (750g) mashing potatoes

         1 table spoon tomato ketchup

         1 table spoon tomato puree

         2 teaspoon of dried mixed herbs

         2 table spoons veg oil

         ½ oz butter

         Splash of milk or double cream

         Salt & ground black pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the oil to a hot saucepan, then put in the minced beef and the chopped onion. Stir around for about ten minutes until the mince is browned.

Add the wine, herbs puree and ketchup, stirring gently for 5 minutes.

Add the complete mix into the slow cooker, along with the carrots, beans, baby sweet corn and hot beef stock. Add salt and pepper to season

Cook for 8 hours on a low heat.

When cooked, transfer the mixture to a suitable size pie dish.

Next, boil up the potatoes for approx. 20-25 minutes, until soft and mash-able. Add the butter, and a splash of cream then mash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any lumps.

The mash must be a spreadable consistency so that you can now spread the mashed potatoes over the mixture in the pie dish.

Smooth over with the underside of a spoon, or pipe the mash on to decorate.

Put in a hot oven for around 40 minutes at 180 C (356 F) until the top is a light brown in colour.

For a fantastically tasty cheesy topping, simply add some grated cheese to your mashed potatoes, and sprinkle some on top of the dish before adding to the oven

*****

Spaghetti Bolognese

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         2 lb (907g) minced beef

         2 onions (diced)

         3 ½ 0z (100g) sliced mushrooms

         1 red pepper (diced)

         1 yellow pepper (diced)

         2 cloves of garlic (fine chopped)

         1 chilli pepper

         1 small tin sweetcorn

         2 tsp dried mixed herbs

         1 table spoon brown sugar

         1 table spoon tomato ketchup

         2 oz parmesan cheese (grated)

         1 pint carton (500g) passata

         ½ pint beef or chicken stock

         1 spoon vegetable oil

         Salt & crushed black pepper to season

Preparation:

In a hot saucepan add the oil and gently sweat off the onion. Add the minced beef , breaking up as you go, and fry for 3-4 minutes then add the passata, stock and the rest of the ingredients.

Bring to boil then add to the slow cooker.

Cook for 6-8 hours.

Taste, and season with salt & pepper as required.

For spaghetti, cook according to manufacturer’s instructions from dry.

Add spaghetti to pasta bowl and spoon over the bolognaise mixture, then sprinkle with the parmesan cheese.

*****

Chilli Con Carne

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         2 lb (907g) minced beef

         2 onions (diced)

         1 garlic clove

         2 chilli peppers (fine chopped)

         1pint carton (500g) passata

         2 table spoons tomato ketchup

         1 14oz tin kidney beans (drained)

         2 tale spoons vegetable oil

         1/4 pint (0.47 ltr ltr) beef stock

         Salt & pepper to taste

         2 tsp smoked paprika

Preparation:

Gently brown off the onion and garlic with the oil in a hot saucepan for 4-5 minutes. Add the minced beef breaking as you go, and brown for 4-5 minutes.

Add the passata and beef stock, then bring to the boil and simmer for 4-5 minutes.

Add the mix to the slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients – with the exception of kidney beans.

½ hour from completion add the kidney beans

Cook for 6-8 hours at a ‘low’ setting.

Tasty simple dish best served on a bed of fluffy white rice

*****

Tasty Lamb Dishes

Pot Roast Lamb Shank

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 medium sized lamb shanks

         1 onion (sliced)

         1 pint (0.48 ltr) lamb stock

         ½ pint of cider or sweet sherry

         2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup

         1 garlic glove (crushed)

         2 bay leaves

         2 table spoons cooking oil

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the oil to a hot saucepan, then add the lamb shanks, turning constantly till browned all over. If need be then do the shanks individually for more space.

When done, then add to the slow cooker heavy side down.

Add the onion to the frying pan along with the stock, cider, honey, crushed garlic and bay leaves. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add the mixture to the slow cooker along with some salt & pepper to season.

Cook for 8 hours at a medium setting.

Delicious served on a bed of mashed potatoes or boiled rice.

*****

Bacon & Lamb Stew

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (750g) lean lamb (chopped)

         1 large onion (chopped)

         1 carrot (chopped)

         6 oz lean bacon ( chopped into 2” pieces)

         2 oz button mushrooms

         3 green beans (halved)

         2 oz dried peas (soaked overnight)

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 large glass red wine

         1 pint (0.48 ltr) lamb or chicken stock

         1 table spoon tomato puree

         1 table spoon tomato relish

         8- medium sized shallots (whole)

         1 basil leaf

         1 table spoon cooking oil

         Salt & crushed black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Coat the lamb thoroughly in the flour which has been pre-seasoned with salt & pepper. Add about half at a time to a hot saucepan and turn until the meat is browned.

Add the meat to the slow cooker. Drain away excess fat from the pan, then add the chopped onion and the bacon pieces. Fry for around 5 minutes, then add the wine, stock, puree, relish, garlic, shallots and the rest of the ingredients.

Bring to the simmer for a few minutes, then add  the  whole mix to the slow cooker stirring the mixture through.

Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook on ‘low’ for 7-8 hours.

When finished taste and season for flavour and add thickening as needed.

Beautiful tasty dish best served on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, with a side of peas or green beans.

*****

Braised Lamb with Port & Prunes

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (750g) lean lamb (chopped)

         1 onion (chopped)

         4 oz (125g) pitted prunes

         8 fl oz (0.23 ltr) ruby port

         1 pint (0.48 ltr) lamb or chicken stock

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         2 red peppers (chopped)

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 table spoon sunflower oil

         2 table spoons tomato puree

         2 tsp of dry mixed herbs (or fresh if available)

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Coat the lamb thoroughly in the flour which has been pre-seasoned with salt & pepper. Add about half at a time to a hot sauce pan and turn until the meat is browned.

After adding the meat to the slow cooker, drain the excess fat from the sauce pan.

Add the chopped onion, and garlic to the pan and fry for a few minutes.

Add the stock, port, puree and herbs and simmer for 5 minutes, after which add the mix to the slow cooker. Add seasoning then add the rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker and set on ‘low’ for 6-8 hours.

When finished taste and season for flavour and add thickening as needed.

This makes a tasty dish that can be served with potatoes or presented on a bed of boiled rice.

*****

Cinnamon Lamb

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (750g) lamb shoulder (diced)

         1 onion (chopped)

         1 garlic clove (chopped)

         1 tin chopped tomatoes

         1 table spoon cinnamon

         1 table spoon honey

         1 pint (0.48 ltr) lamb stock

         2 teaspoons dried basil

         2 oz raisins

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 table spoon sunflower oil

Preparation:

After coating the chopped lamb in seasoned flour, place into a hot saucepan with the oil and fry until browned all over.

Remove from the pan and place into the slow cooker.

Drain away the excess fat and add the onion and garlic; fry for a few minutes to soften, then add the chopped tomatoes, basil, cinnamon, honey, raisins and stock to the pan.

Simmer for 5 minutes, then add the mix to the slow cooker and set on low for 6-8 hours.

Taste and season accordingly.

*****

Slow Cooking Hot-Pot

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 lamb neck chops

         2 large onion (sliced)

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         3 large potatoes (thick sliced)

         ½ small turnip (diced)

         1 oz (28g) pearl barley

         2 carrots (chopped)

         1 table spoon puree

         1 table spoon brown sauce

         ¾ pint (0.35 ltr) lamb stock

         Salt & crushed black pepper

Preparation:

Place half the onion, garlic, and turnip (swede) ingredients (excluding the sliced potatoes) into the Slow Cooker, then lay the lamb on top.

Cover with the rest of the ingredients, add most of the stock, then layer around with the sliced potatoes.

Cover with the rest of the stock. Season well with salt & plenty crushed black pepper.

Cook on a ‘low’ setting for approx. 5 hours.

Excellent dish served inside a large Yorkshire pudding!

*****

Healthy Stewed Shoulder of Lamb

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 shoulder of Lamb (On the bone, approx 2 lb)

         3 parsnips (chopped)

         4 carrots (chopped)

         2 tsp dried mixed herbs

         1 twig rosemary

         1 onion (chopped)

         1 ½ pints (0.70 ltr) lamb or vegetable stock

         1 table spoon tomato relish

         Salt & crushed black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Place lamb shoulder and all other ingredients into slow cooker, and cover with the stock.

Add salt & pepper.

Cook on ‘low’ for 8 hours.

Remove the lamb shoulder and lay aside on tray.

Pour stock and vegetables into a jug and leave to cool and the fat to form on the surface.

Carefully scrape away the fat from the surface of the stock.

When sufficiently cool, remove the  meat from the bone, chop into bite-sized pieces and mix through the stock.

Re-heat the mix and add some gravy granules or cornflour to thicken.

Taste, and add salt to season if required.

This makes a rich tasty dish best served on a bed of rice.

*****

Tasty Pork Dishes

Pork & Apple Casserole

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (750g) diced pork

         3 large apples (chopped)

         1 large onion (sliced)

         2 oz raisins

         3 oz mushrooms (sliced)

         1 yellow pepper (chopped)

         1/2 pint (0.23 ltr) cider

         ½ pint vegetable stock

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 table spoon vegetable oil

         Salt & crushed white pepper

Preparation:

Coat the diced pork in flour that has been pre-seasoned with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry pork, turning regularly to brown on all sides. Remove from pan and add to the slow cooker.

Add the onion and chopped yellow pepper to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, then add the rest of the ingredients, including salt & pepper to season.

Simmer for a few minutes, then add the mix to the slow cooker and cook for 6-8 hours on a ‘low setting’.

Taste and season to suit.

Best served with  a nice creamy potato mash, and some boiled vegetables.

*****

Mediterranean Pork Casserole

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (750g) pork shoulder (diced)

         1 large onion (chopped)

         1 tin chopped tomatoes

         1 red pepper (chopped)

         1 yellow pepper (chopped)

         2 chilli peppers (finely chopped)

         2 oz mushrooms (sliced)

         1 clove garlic (finely chopped)

         3.5 oz (100g) baby button mushrooms

         1 small glass red wine

         ¾  pint (0.35 ltr) stock

         3 tsp of dry mixed Mediterranean herbs

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 table spoon vegetable oil

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Coat the diced pork in flour that has been pre-seasoned with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a sauce pan and fry pork, turning regularly to brown on all sides. Remove from pan and add to the slow cooker.

Add to the saucepan the onion, garlic, mushrooms, chopped tomato and peppers; fry for 4-5 minutes. Add the wine, herbs, stock, and simmer for a further 5 minutes.

Add the mixture to the Slow Cooker along with the pork, season with salt and pepper and cook for 6-8 hours on a ‘low’ setting.

Season to taste and thicken if necessary.

A fantastic hot spicy dish best served on a bed of boiled rice.

*****

BBQ Pork Ribs

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

         2 lbs (907g) boneless pork ribs

         1 chilli pepper

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) sweet cider

         1 onion (sliced)

         1 clove garlic (finely chopped)

         4 oz (113g) tomato ketchup

         1 table spoon honey

         1 table spoon dark cane sugar

         1 table spoon cider vinegar

         1 teaspoon tobacco sauce

         1 teaspoon grainy French mustard

         1 table spoon sunflower oil

         ½ oz butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the sliced onion and garlic, into a sauce pan with the oil, and butter; fry for 2-3 minutes. Add the pork ribs and fry for 4-5 minutes.

Add the cider then bring to the boil and simmer for two minutes before adding the whole mix to the slow cooker.

Cook for 6-8 hours on a ‘low’ setting.

Season to flavour

To make the BBQ sauce. Put a small saucepan on a medium heat and add the ketchup, vinegar, sauce, French mustard, chilli pepper, brown sugar and honey.

Stir until completely mixed, adding a little water if need be to get the right consistency.

Place the cooked ribs into a large container and pour through the sauce.

Serve with French fries or on a bed of basmati rice for a fantastic tasty dish.

*****

Spicy Sausage Casserole

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

         2 lb (907g) spicy sausage (whole or chopped)

         1 large onion (chopped)

         1 tin chopped tomatoes

         1 tin mixed beans

         2 chilli peppers (chopped)

         ¾ pint (0.35 ltr)

         1 red pepper (chopped)

         1 yellow pepper (chopped)

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         1 tsp smoked paprika

         1 teaspoon Worcester sauce

         2 table spoon tomato relish

         1 table spoon of vegetable oil

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the vegetable oil to a deep saucepan, along with the chopped onion, garlic and sausage that has been chopped into 1” (25mm) pieces.

Fry for 3-4 minutes, then add the rest of the ingredients. Bring the liquid to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes.

Add salt and pepper to season.

Cook on ‘low’ for 5-6 hours, taste and season to taste, thicken if need be.

This make a delicious and ‘full on’ winters evening meal, especially when served up with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.

*****

Pork Shoulder with Butterbeans in Apple Cider

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 thick pork shoulder steaks

         2 tins butter beans (drained)

         1 onion (chopped)

         1/4  pint (0.11 ltr) chicken stock

         ½ pint strong cider

         1 table spoon French grainy mustard

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         2 table spoons plain flour

         Salt & ground black pepper to season

Preparation:

Coat the shoulder steaks in flour seasoned with the salt & pepper. Add to a hot saucepan and fry till browned all sides. Remove and place into the slow cooker.

Add the onion, garlic, butter beans, stock, cider, and mustard; bring to the boil and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add to the slow cooker with the other ingredients and cook on ‘low’ for around 6-7 hours.

Remove the pork from the cooker and add some cornflour to thicken the mix, taste and season if required.

Place the pork pieces into a serving dish and pour over the bean sauce mix.

*****

Tasty Duck & Game Recipes

Duck Breast in Orange Sauce

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 lean duck breasts

         3 oranges (sliced)

         1 small onion (sliced)

         1 garlic clove (fine chopped)

         2-3 leaves mint

         1 table spoon course marmalade

         3/4 pint (0.35 ltr) orange juice

         1 table spoon honey

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Remove any skin from the duck breasts, slice in half and rub over with salt to season.

Layer the duck, onion and oranges in the slow cooker.

Add the orange juice and the rest of the ingredients into a suitable container and mix thoroughly. Pour this mix over the duck in the slow cooker.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

When cooked, remove duck and discard the fruit and vegetables, retaining the sauce.

Thicken the sauce to a good consistency with some cornflour or Arrowroot, simmer in a saucepan for 5 minutes or so.

Place duck breasts in a serving dish and pour over the orange sauce.

A delightfully tasty dish served with duck placed on a bed of boiled wild rice. Garnish with slices of Orange.

*****

Rabbit & Red Wine Stew

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

         1 Rabbit Jointed & cut into pieces

         1 large onion (chopped

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) red wine

         ¼ pint chicken stock

         1 carrot (sliced)

         2 oz seeded olives

         4 potatoes cut into chunks

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 table spoon cooking oil

         1/2 oz butter

         1 table spoon tomato relish

         Salt & ground black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Coat the rabbit pieces in pre-seasoned flour and add to a hot saucepan with the oil and butter. Turn rabbit pieces until browned all over and add to the slow cooker.

Into the saucepan add the  onion, garlic, tomato relish stock and red wine. Bring to the boil and simmer for 4-5 minutes.

Pour the ingredients into the slow cooker with the rabbit. Add the other ingredients.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Taste, and season with salt, and ground black pepper to suit.

Delightful served with a side of boiled potatoes in butter and oatmeal.

*****

Pheasant with Cherries

(Serves 4 )

Ingredients:

         4 Pheasant breasts

         7 oz (198g) shallots halved

         1 jar pitted morello cherries

         1 large onion (sliced)

         2 garlic cloves (crushed)

         2 whole cloves

         3 bay leaves

         1 table spoon honey

         ½ table spoon mixed spice

         1 table spoon brown cane sugar

         1/2 pint (0.23 ltr) chicken stock

         2 table spoons vegetable oil

         ½ oz butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Coat the pheasant breasts with well-seasoned flour, and fry with the oil and butter in a saucepan for 4-5 minutes. Remove and add to the slow cooker.

Add the shallots, garlic and sliced onion to the saucepan and fry for 2-3 minutes, then add the rest of the ingredients. Bring to the boil and simmer for 4-5 minutes before adding the mix to the slow cooker.

Cook on ‘low’ for 2 ½ - 3 hours.

Taste, then season/thicken to suit.

Can be served with boiled rice, or potatoes and vegetables, to make an ideal evening meal.

*****

Pheasant with Pancetta & Sweet Chestnuts

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 Pheasant breasts

         7 oz (198g) whole peeled chestnuts

         7 oz shallots

         3 ½ oz (99g) smoked sliced pancetta

         1 teaspoon French grainy mustard

         2 sliced apples

         ¼ pint (0.11 ltr) sweet cider

         ¼ pint chicken stock

         1 garlic clove (fine chopped)

         1 table spoon tomato relish

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 oz butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Dry the pheasant then season well with salt & pepper; wrap the pheasant in the pancetta, holding in place with string or cocktail sticks pierced through the meat. Add to a hot saucepan along with the oil and butter. Fry for 3-4 minutes. Remove and add to the slow cooker.

Into the hot saucepan add the shallots, chestnuts, garlic, stock and the other ingredients. Bring to the boil and simmer for 3-4 minutes, then add to the slow cooker along with the pheasant.

Cook on ‘low’ for 2 ½ - 3 hours, then season to taste.

Very satisfying dish if served with roast & mashed potatoes & vegetables. Or with a simple base of basmati rice.

*****

Venison & Cranberry Stew

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 lb (450g) venison loin (cubed)

         1 onion (chopped)

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         5 oz (141g) cranberries

         2 oz (56g) mushrooms (sliced)

         1 carrot (chopped)

         1 table spoon tomato relish

         2 sprigs rosemary

         1 tsp mixed dried herbs

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) brown ale (Guinness?)

         ¼ pint (0.11ltr) beef stock

         2 tsp grainy mustard

         2 tsp brown sugar

         2 table spoons plain flour

         1 table spoon vegetable oil

         1 oz butter

         Salt & black pepper to season

Preparation:

Coat the diced venison in well-seasoned flour and add to a saucepan with the oil and butter. Fry and turn the meat to brown all sides, then remove and add to the slow cooker.

Add the onion and garlic to the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes, then add the mushrooms, rosemary, mustard, herbs, tomato relish, brown sugar, stock and brown ale to the saucepan. Bring to the boil and simmer for 4-5 mins.

Add the mix to the slow cooker along with the sliced carrots. Add seasoning.

Cook on ‘low’ for 7-8 hours, taste and season as required.

Fantastic stew for a cold winters evening, served with a creamy mash and green beans.

*****

Tasty Curries

Spicy Beef Curry

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (680g) beef braising steak (cubed)

         1 red pepper (chopped)

         1 yellow pepper (chopped)

         2 garlic clove (finely chopped)

         2 chilli peppers (finely chopped)

         2 tsp garam masala

         1 tsp ginger

         3 tsp ground coriander

         3 tsp cumin

         2 tsp smoked paprika

         2 onions (chopped)

         1 14 oz tin chopped tomatoes

         ¾ pint (0.35 ltr) beef or chicken stock

         7oz (198g) natural yogurt

         2 table spoons vegetable oil

         Salt & crushed black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the oil into a saucepan and fry the meat until browned on all sides.

Remove and add to the crockpot.

Fry the onions and garlic for a couple of minutes, then add the chopped tomatoes, stock, spices, peppers and stock. Salt & pepper to season. Do NOT add the yogurt at this time.

Bring the mixture to the boil then simmer for 4-5 minutes.

Add the mixture to the slow cooker and set on ‘low’ for 8-9 hours.

About thirty minutes before cooking has finished, add the yogurt and mix through thoroughly.

Taste and season with salt and more chilli pepper if needed.

Serve on a bed of rice with a naan bread for a delicious meal.

*****

Caribbean Chicken Curry

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken breasts (cubed)

         2 shallots finely chopped

         2 cloves garlic finely chopped

         2 tsp turmeric

         1 table spoon curry powder

         2 tsp garam masala

         2 tsp ginger

         2 potatoes (diced)

         ½ cup chopped pineapple

         3/4 pint (0.35 ltr) chicken stock

         2 chilli peppers (chopped)

         1 table spoon olive oil

         Salt to flavour

Preparation:

Add all the spices and chilli’s into a pestle with the olive oil and mash into a paste.

Place the chicken in a dish and liberally coat with the paste before placing the chicken pieces into the slow cooker.

Gently fry the shallots in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes then add the stock and the cubed potato.

Bring to the boil and simmer for 2-3 minutes, then add to the slow cooker. Season with salt.

Cook on a ‘low’ setting for 6-8 hours.

*****

Malaysian Style Chicken & Pineapple Curry

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         3-4 chicken breasts (cubed)

         1 onion (chopped)

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         1 tin coconut milk

         2 tsp curry powder

         2 tsp garam masala

         1 tsp crushed coriander seeds

         1 tsp cumin

         1 small tin chopped tomatoes

         1 table spoon turmeric

         1 tsp lemon grass

         1 fresh chilli fine chopped

         1 cup ( 236g ) pineapple (chopped to 1” cubes)

         2 tsp ginger

         1/4 pint (0.11 ltr) chicken stock

         2 table spoons olive oil

         Salt & crushed white pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the olive oil to a pestle along with the spices and chilli’s, ground down to a paste.

Place the chicken into a suitable container and add the curry paste, mixing through thoroughly.

Place the chicken into the slow cooker.

In a hot saucepan fry the onion and the garlic in a little oil for 2-3 mins. Add the chicken stock, tomatoes and coconut milk, bring to boil and place into the slow cooker. Add the pineapple with salt and pepper to season.

Cook for 6-8 hours on ‘low’.

Serve on a bed of basmati rice, with naan bread or poppadoms.

*****

Lamb & Prune Curry

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (680g) lamb shoulder (diced)

         4 oz (125g) pitted prunes

         1 chopped onion

         2 tsp brown cane sugar

         1 garlic clove (fine chopped)

         3/4 pint (0.35 ltr) lamb stock

         2 hot chilli’s (chopped)

         2 tsp curry powder

         1 tsp garam masala

         2 tsp ginger

         1 tsp crushed coriander seeds

         2 tsp cumin

         1 table spoon cooking oil

         Salt & crushed black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Put the diced lamb in a hot saucepan with the oil and some seasoning ,and turn until browned all over. This may have to be done using half of the lamb at a time. Add the browned lamb to the slow cooker.

Fry the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes, then add the rest of the spices along with the stock. Bring to the boil and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add  to the slow cooker, mixing thoroughly; then add the prunes.

Cook on ‘low’ for 6-8 hours; taste and add seasoning if needed.

*****

Vegetable & Chickpea Curry

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken breasts (diced)

         2 onion (chopped)

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         1 14oz tin chickpeas

         2 carrots (chopped)

         1 red pepper (chopped)

         1 yellow pepper (chopped)

         4 baby sweetcorn (chopped)

         4 oz (113g) cut green beans

         2 tsp curry powder

         2 tsp garam masala

         1 tsp coriander seeds (crushed)

         2 tsp turmeric

         1 tsp grated fresh ginger

         1 table spoon dark cane sugar

         2 chilli peppers (fine chopped)

         1 pint (0.48 ltr) chicken stock

         2 table spoons olive oil

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Place the olive oil along with the spices and hot peppers into a pestle and grind down to a paste, adding salt and pepper to season.

Place the chicken pieces into a dish and liberally coat with the curry paste, before adding to the slow cooker.

Place the onion, garlic, peppers into a saucepan with the chicken stock and bring to the boil.

Add to the slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients .

Cook on ‘low’ for 8 hours or until vegetables become tender.

Taste and add seasoning if needed.

Fantastic served on a bed of rice or couscous.

*****

Tasty Fish & Seafood Dishes

Spicy Fish Chowder

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         2 lbs (907g) fish (cod, haddock, monkfish etc)

         4 potatoes (chopped into 1” cubes)

         2 onions (sliced)

         1 14 oz can evaporated milk

         2 chilli’s (finely chopped)

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         ¼ lb (113g) thick sliced bacon (diced)

         2 table spoons vegetable oil.

         Salt & crushed black pepper to taste)

         1 ½  pint (0.70 ltr) fish stock

Preparation:

In a saucepan fry the oil, onion, garlic and bacon for approx 5 mins, until the meat is cooked and the onion starting to brown. Drain off excess fat and then add the fish stock and simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Add to the slow cooker.

Chop the fish into reasonable sized pieces, place into slow cooker, along with the diced potatoes and the chopped chilli’s. Mix through carefully so as not to break up the fish pieces.

Cook for 5-6 hours on ‘low’

Add the tin of evaporated milk 30 minutes before completion.

Taste, then add seasoning to suit.

*****

Tuna & Sweetcorn Casserole

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         2 cans (12 oz) tuna

         8 baby sweetcorn (chopped)

         1 onion (diced)

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         1 tin (14 oz)  mushroom soup

         8 oz (225g) rice noodles

         3/4 pint (0.35 ltr) fish stock

         1 table spoon sunflower oil

         Salt & crushed white pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the oil, garlic and onion to a saucepan and fry for 2-3 minutes.

Add the fish stock, soup and a little salt & pepper to taste. Bring to the boil and then add the whole mix to the slow cooker.

Add the Tuna and the rest of the ingredients.

Cook on low for 5-6 hours.

A delicious dish served on its own, or with a side serving of mashed potatoes & cauliflower cheese – if you’re really hungry!

*****

Slow Cooker Chicken & Shrimp

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         3 large chicken breasts (chopped)

         ¾ lb (340g) cleaned uncooked shrimp

         1 onion (chopped)

         2 spring onions cut into strips

         1 14 oz tin chopped tomatoes

         3/4 pint (0.35 ltr) chicken stock or white wine

         1 garlic clove (fine chopped)

         2 tsp turmeric

         2 tsp dried oregano ( fresh to suit)

         1 oz butter

         2 table spoons olive oil

         Salt & Pepper to taste.

Preparation:

In a hot sauce pan, add the oil and butter and the chicken pieces. Season with salt & pepper then fry for 4-5 minutes until browned all over, then transfer to the slow cooker.

Fry off the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes, then add the tomatoes, chicken stock and other ingredients. Bring to boil and simmer for 2-3 minutes; then add the mixture to the slow cooker with the other ingredients.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

½ hour before completion, add the cleaned shrimp.

Taste; then season to suit.

*****

Mixed Seafood Chowder

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         4 oz (113g) shrimp

         4 oz mussels

         2 potatoes (chopped)

         6 oz (170g) salmon (cut to pieces)

         6 oz Cod or haddock (cut to pieces)

         1 chopped onion

         2 sticks celery (chopped)

         1 leek (chopped)

         1 clove garlic

         1 pinch ground nutmeg

         1 tin condensed mushroom soup

         1 pint fish stock

         1 pint water

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) double cream

         2 table spoons sunflower oil

         Salt & crushed white pepper to season

Preparation:

Place the onion, garlic and leek into a hot saucepan with the oil and fry for approx 5 minutes to partially cook; add the fish stock, water and soup and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove to the slow cooker.

Add the mussels, salmon, chopped potatoes, haddock, nutmeg and some seasoning to the slow cooker.

Cook on ‘low’ for 5-6 hours.

½ hour before cooked put in the double cream, then 15 minutes later stir in the shrimp. Switch to high for last 15 minutes or so.

Taste, then season to suit.

Fantastic served with a good crusty loaf!

*****

Seafood Gumbo

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         ¾ lb (340g) large shrimp cleaned

         ¾ lb crab meat

         ¾ lb scallops

         2 oz button mushrooms

         1 large onion (chopped)

         3 stalks celery (chopped)

         6 baby sweetcorn chopped

         1 clove garlic (fine diced)

         1 chilli pepper

         1 14 oz tin chopped tomatoes

         ¾ pint (0.35 ltr) chicken or fish stock

         1 glass white wine

         2 table spoons vegetable oil

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

In a saucepan, fry the onion celery and garlic for 3-4 mins; then add the tomatoes and stock (wine optional). Bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes then add the mix to the slow cooker.

Add the celery, sweetcorn, and mushrooms, with some salt & pepper.

Cook on ‘low’ for 4-5 hours.

½ hour before the end of cooking, mix in the shrimp, crab meat and scallops.

Taste when done and season with salt  & pepper to suit.

Excellent dish served on a bed of boiled rice.

*****

Conclusion

By now I hope that if you had any doubts at all about the effectiveness and versatility of crock pot cooking, let alone the time and cost saving aspect of it – these doubts will have been removed.

Slow cooking has been around for literally ages, and so the concept is nothing new. I do believe however that the idea has had a bit of a revival in these times, as we all struggle to  make best use of the few free hours that we have between running a house-hold and working to help pay the bills !

One of the great advantages of slow cooking is that you can ‘set & forget’. This means that you can set it up in the morning and it’s all ready for you when you get home from work.

Not only that, these dishes generally freeze well (freeze before adding cream), and so a quick blast in the micro-wave, and your meal is ready!

I hope you have found these recipes to be both relatively simple to make, and tasty.

If so I would really appreciate a review on the Amazon site.

******

Farmhouse Kitchen Recipes:

Book 2: Fantastic Chicken  Cookbook

(Easy Recipes For Healthy Eating)

By

F.A. Paris

Published By

www.deanburnpublications.com

Introduction

When it comes to creating good tasty meals, It has to be said that the world would be a much blander place, without the humble chicken! Chicken is the staple diet of numerous countries throughout the Globe, and with good cause.

Chickens are by and large easy and cheap to rear, needing no special care, whilst producing first eggs, then meat for the table – even the feathers can be used to stuff pillows!

However it has to be said that the flesh itself can be very bland, especially if it is a store-bought chicken and not of the free-range variety. The good news is that even if you are not fortunate enough to be able to rear your  own chickens, or cannot afford the more expensive ‘Organically reared’ variety; you can still produce tasty succulent chicken recipes to be proud off by following some of the easy cooking tips in this recipe book dedicated to chicken dishes.

Most of these tasty recipes can be produced from materials kept in the average larder (excluding the chicken of course!) and are created to be simple to make and yet exceedingly tasty.

Weights & Measures

For the sake of clarity, all weights & measures are in US standard with European measures in brackets alongside.

General:

All necessary steps are presumed to have been followed during the preparation of foodstuffs included in this recipe book; such as the cleaning, preparing, peeling and dicing of the vegetables used in the various meals.

ENJOY!

Chicken Breast With Parma Ham, Honey & Herbs

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken breasts

         8 strips Parma ham or thin bacon

         2 table spoons mixed dry herbs

         2 table spoons runny honey

         2 table spoons olive oil

         2 tsp of sea salt

Preparation:

Clean  the chicken breasts, then dry with some absorbent kitchen paper.

Wrap two pieces of Parma ham around each chicken breast and place on an oven-proof tray.

Mix the olive oil and the honey together in a suitable container, then brush liberally over the chicken.

Sprinkle with the dry herbs, to give a good coating. Season with the Sea Salt.

Place in a hot oven at 180f for 25 minutes.

Best served sliced diagonally, and placed on a bed of Basmati rice.

*****

Sauté of Chicken with Lemon & Thyme

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken pieces (thighs or breasts)

         4 table spoons virgin olive oil

         1 large onion (diced)

         1 garlic clove (chopped fine)

         2 tsp fresh thyme or coriander (chopped)

         ½ oz butter

         2 lemons

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Heat the butter and oil in a hot saucepan, then add the onion and fry for 2-3 minutes.

Add the chicken (after removing any excess fat and skin) and seasoning, then turn the chicken frequently for about 15 minutes until brown and crisp all over.

Turn down the heat, add the herbs and cover with a lid. Continue cooking for a further 20 mins or until the juice runs clear when the chicken is pierced at its thickest points.

Remove chicken pieces and place in a warm serving dish.

Add the juice of the two lemons along with the herbs to the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes, adding salt & pepper to taste.

Pour the sauce over the chicken pieces and serve.

An accompaniment of French fries, or potatoes and veg would serve this dish well.

*****

Spicy Chicken Casserole (1)

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken thighs

         1 14oz (396g) tin chopped tomatoes

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) chicken stock

         1 onion (diced)

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         2 hot chillies (fine sliced)

         2 table spoons virgin olive oil

         2 teaspoon mixed herbs

         1 teaspoon cinnamon

         1 small glass red wine

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Heat a saucepan and add the butter and oil along with the onion and garlic. Fry for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Remove excess fat & skin from chicken, then add to the saucepan and fry for 10 minutes, turning frequently.

Remove the chicken pieces from the saucepan and place in an ovenproof casserole dish. 

Add the chicken stock, red wine and herbs to the saucepan, along with the chopped tomatoes and simmer for 4-5 minutes. Season to taste.

Add the ingredients to the casserole dish, place in the oven and cook on 180C for a further 45-50 minutes. Add thickening agent (cornflour or arrowroot) and cook for a further 5-10 mins.

Delicious served on a bed of boiled rice flavoured with lemon zest.

*****

Spicy Chicken Casserole (2)

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (680g) diced chicken

         1 pint (0.45 ltr) chicken stock

         2 hot chillies (chopped fine)

         2 onions (chopped)

         2 cloves garlic (crushed)

         2 peppers (1 red 1 yellow chopped)

         1 table spoon tomato paste

         1 table spoon tomato ketchup

         6 baby sweet corn (chopped)

         ¼ lb (113g) sliced mushrooms

         1 table spoon orange marmalade

         Salt & pepper to taste.

Preparation:

Place all the ingredients (minus the stock) into a suitably sized casserole dish, and mix thoroughly adding seasoning.

Pour in the chicken stock, then place in a pre-heated oven set at 180C for 1.5 hours.

Add thickening agent (cornflour or arrowroot) and cook for a further 5-10 mins.

Season as required and serve with traditional vegetables or boiled rice.

*****

Honey Glazed Roast Chicken

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         3 ½  lb (1.58 kg) Chicken

         3 tablespoons runny honey

         2 table spoons extra virgin olive oil

         1 tsp balsamic vinegar

         1 tsp soy sauce

         1 tsp paprika

         Sea-Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

After the chicken is cleaned and prepared with any giblets removed; place the whole bird on a suitable oven tray.

Mix the olive oil, honey, paprika and other ingredients together, then brush over the chicken. (use around half of the mix)

Add to a pre-heated oven at 180C and cook for approx 30 minutes, then carefully remove from oven and brush over the rest of the mix. Season with the Sea-salt and ground black pepper.

Add to the oven and cook for a further 60 minutes. Test and see that the juice runs clear when the bird is pierced at the thickest parts.

After skimming away the excess fat, mix the juice in the oven tray with some chicken granules or other thickener to make a delicious gravy.

Carve and serve with roast potatoes and vegetables, placing sauce in a gravy boat for pouring – delicious!

*****

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

         12 chicken drumsticks

         2 table spoons sunflower oil

         2 tsp allspice

         1 tsp cinnamon

         2 hot chillies

         1 table spoon runny honey

         1 table spoon soy sauce

         Salt & pepper to season.

Preparation:

Add all the ingredients less the chicken into a food processor, and grind down to a fine paste.

Cut the chicken drumsticks in several places, leaving deep scores, then liberally rub in the spice mix.

Place in a hot oven at 190C, or place on a barbeque and cook for approx 20 minutes, turning several times during cooking. Test and see that the juice runs clear, and that the flesh is no longer pink on the inside. (especially if barbequing!)

Fantastic finger food when served with a crusty loaf and a cold beer!

*****

Teriyaki Chicken

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 medium sized chicken breasts

         2 table spoons sunflower oil

         4 table spoons soy sauce

         4 table spoons rice wine

         ½ oz butter

         2 tomatoes (fine diced)

         3 table spoons chicken stock or water

         1 table spoon dark cane sugar

         1 clove garlic (fine diced)

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the soy sauce, rice wine, tomatoes, sugar, garlic and stock into a saucepan and stir until all the sugar is melted and the stock is simmering

Add the oil and butter into a hot saucepan with the garlic and fry for 2-3 minutes.

Add the chicken breasts and fry each side for approx 5 minutes.

Add the teriyaki sauce mix to the chicken and simmer on a low heat for a further 20 minutes, turning several times during cooking. Add more liquid if mixture looks like drying out.

Beautiful tasty dish served on a bed of steamed lemon or lime rice

*****

Creamy Chicken Curry With Pineapple

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (680g) diced chicken

         1 chopped onion

         1 small tin chopped pineapple

         1 tin coconut milk

         3/4 pint (0.35 ltr) double cream

         2 table spoon extra virgin olive oil

         2 tsp turmeric

         1 tsp ground ginger

         1 tsp garam masala

         1 tsp curry powder

         2 hot chilli’s (fine chopped)

         1 garlic clove (fine diced)

         1 tsp lemon grass

         1 tsp coriander seeds (crushed)

         1 table spoon brown sugar

         Salt & crushed white pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the olive oil, chilli’s and all the spices into a blender or pestle and reduce to a paste.

Add the chicken and chopped onion into a wok, and mix through the curry paste. Lightly fry for 4-5 mins before adding the coconut milk, double cream and brown sugar.

Simmer in the wok for 20 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the Pineapple pieces, then cook for a further 10-15 minutes.

Add water if needed to loosen the consistency.

Season as required.

Best Served of a bed of steamed Basmati rice.

*****

Sicilian Chicken

(serves 4)

Ingredients:

         8 chicken thighs

         1 chopped onion

         1 14 oz tin chopped tomatoes

         4 sundried tomatoes (chopped)

         1 table spoon tomato ketchup

         1 table spoon virgin olive oil

         1 table spoon butter

         2 garlic cloves (crushed

         3 oz black olives (stoned)

         3 oz mushrooms (sliced)

         2 hot chilli peppers

         1 large red pepper

         1 pint (0.47 ltr) chicken stock

         1 glass red wine

         Salt & crushed black pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the oil and butter to a hot saucepan, along with the chicken (with excess fat trimmed off), season and fry for 5 -10 minutes. Carefully pour away excess fat from the saucepan, then add the onion and fry for a further 3-4 minutes.

Add the chicken stock along with the rest of the ingredients, and place a lid over the pan. Simmer on a low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Taste & season with salt & pepper if required.

Serve with steamed rice, or with mashed creamed potatoes for a delicious meal.

*****

Spicy Chicken & Sweetcorn Soup

(Serves 4-6)

Made from left-over chicken carcase – cooked or raw - this is an ideal starter for your chicken main course. If you have no chicken then a good chicken stock will do in place of water.

Ingredients:

         1 carrot (sliced)

         1 onion (diced)

         6 baby sweetcorn (chopped)

         1 handful barley or rice

         Chicken carcase

         2 pints (0.94 ltrs) water

         Tsp of chili flakes

         2 chicken stock cubes

         Salt & Pepper to season

Heat up some cooking oil in a heavy bottomed pan, and add the chicken pieces or carcase. Cook for approx 5 minutes stirring regularly, then add the onion. Cook for a further 3-5 mins until onion is soft, then add the water.

Leave for a further 20 minutes or so, then remove the chicken carcase and any pieces. Remove any chicken from the bones, and return the chicken scraps to the water.

Add the chopped sweetcorn, chili flakes and the barley or rice.

Break down the stock cube and add to the soup.

Cook for a further 25 minutes then add  salt and pepper to season.

Taste, and add more salt if needed.

*****

Pot-Roast Chicken with Lemon

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 small chicken (able to fit in slow cooker)

         1 Large onion (chopped)

         3 carrots (chopped or sliced)

         1 lemon cut into wedges

         2 table spoons olive oil

         1 table spoon of honey

         2 tsp French mustard

         2 sticks of celery (sliced thick)

         2 tsp spoons dried tarragon or rosemary

         1 glass cider

         1.5 pints (0.70ltr) chicken stock

         1 dollop of butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the chicken to a large hot frying pan with the oil and butter; fry for approx. ten minutes turning the chicken several times until the chicken is browned all over.

Carefully place the chicken into the crockpot.

Add the chopped onion, mustard honey and cider into the frying pan and bring to the boil. Pour the liquid over the chicken, being sure to get all the gravy including the ‘bits and pieces’.

Add the chicken stock along with all the chopped vegetables, and lemon wedges making sure that the chicken is covered with the liquid.

Cook on medium for about six hours or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the juice runs clear when the thickest parts are pierced with a knife.

Taste the gravy and add seasoning to suit.

When cooked, remove and carve the usual way. Add some thickener to the remaining mixture (skimming any excess fat from the surface) and serve with the gravy and vegetables.

*****

Orange Chicken Pot Roast

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

         4 chicken thighs

         4 chicken drumsticks

         3 carrots (chopped)

         1 large onion (sliced)

         4 oz (113g) chopped mushrooms

         8 baby sweet-corn (chopped)

         1 orange cut into 6 pieces

         2  pints (0.98 ltr) chicken stock

         1 clove of garlic (crushed)

         2 table spoons olive oil

         2 large table spoons orange marmalade

         1 dollop of unsalted butter

         2 tsp of dried thyme

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the chicken pieces into a hot saucepan along with the oil and butter. Fry for approximately ten minutes, turning constantly until the chicken is browned all over.

Add the chicken to the crock-pot.

Drain off any excess fat from the pan (leaving stock) and add your crushed garlic, onion and mushroom; fry for a few minutes then add half of the chicken stock. Bring to the boil for a few minutes.

Add the mixture along with the rest of the ingredients to the crock-pot and set on low for 6-8 hours.

When nearly done, add thickener to suit and salt and pepper to taste.

*****

Chicken Tikka Masala

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         3 chicken breasts (cubed)

         Juice of 1 lime

         1 tsp garam masala

         1 tsp ground cumin

         1 tsp ground ginger

         2 tsp paprika

         1 tsp turmeric

         1 oz butter

         2 onions (fine sliced)

         2 tsp ground coriander

         2 red chilli peppers (fine diced)

         1 clove garlic (chopped fine)

         2 table spoons tomato puree

         1 tsp spoon brown sugar

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) double cream

         Coriander leaves

         4 table spoons water

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

In a saucepan, melt the butter and lightly fry the onions, ginger and garlic for 4-5 minutes until soft.

Add the spices and fry gently for a further 2-3 minutes before adding the cream, water and sugar. Season to taste.

Fry gently for a further 10 minutes, then place to one side.

To cook chicken; place the pieces on skewers and char-grill, turning regularly for 15-20 minutes. Remove from the skewers when thoroughly cooked, then add the chicken pieces to the prepared sauce.

Bring to simmer than add the lime juice and coriander leaves to garnish.

Delicious served on a bed of Basmati rice or with naan bread.

*****

Tandoori Chicken

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 boneless chicken breasts

         2 hot chilli’s (chopped)

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         1 tsp garam masala

         1 tsp coriander seeds

         1 tablespoon virgin olive oil

         Juice of two lemons

         1 tsp ginger

         1 tsp paprika

         1 tsp cumin seeds

         Coriander leaves

         Salt & pepper to season

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) natural yogurt

Preparation:

Add the oil, spices, garlic, and lemon juice into a blender of pestle and grind to a paste.

Transfer to a suitable dish and mix through the yogurt along with seasoning.

After scoring the chicken pieces deeply with a sharp knife, mix through the spice mix and marinade for a few hours, or overnight in the fridge.

Cook the chicken pieces on a hot griddle pan or barbeque for 25-30 minutes; until the juices run clear when pierces with a sharp knife at the thickest parts.

Serve with steamed rice or on a bed of shredded lettuce, white cabbage and fine sliced onions. Garnish with coriander leaves. Season with salt to taste.

*****

Indonesian Style Chicken & Coconut Curry

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         3 chicken breasts (cubed)

         1 onion (sliced)

         1 tablespoon olive oil

         1 tin coconut milk

         2 table spoons fine ground coconut

         2 hot green chilli’s

         2 garlic cloves (chopped)

         1 tsp fish paste

         1 tsp coriander seeds

         1 tsp lemon grass

         2 tsp turmeric

         1 tsp cardamom seeds

         1 table spoon fish sauce

Preparation:

Add the oil, spices, garlic, coconut  and chilli’s into a pestle or food processor and grind into a paste.

Into a wok add a little oil then lightly fry the onion for 2-3 minutes before adding the spice paste then the chicken mixing thoroughly over a light heat; add seasoning.

After 3-4 minutes add the coconut milk, fish sauce and cook for a further 30-40 minutes, stirring regularly to make sure it does not stick.

Serve on a bed of steamed rice garnished with coriander.

*****

Chicken & Smoked Ham Stew

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         8 oz (226g) smoked ham (cubed)

         1 ½ lb (680g) chicken (cubed)

         6-8 scallops

         2 pints (0.94 ltr) chicken stock

         2 hot chilli’s (fine sliced)

         2 table spoons vegetable oil

         1 tsp turmeric

         2 tsp chopped parsley

         2 tsp chopped thyme or rosemary

         1 large onion (Diced)

         2 sticks celery (chopped)

         1 garlic clove

         1 - 14 oz tin of chopped tomatoes

         2 red peppers (chopped)

         1 table spoon tomato relish

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Heat the oil in a saucepan and add the onion, red peppers and garlic. Fry for 3-4 minutes then add the chicken and fry for a further 4-5 minutes.

Add the stock and all the other ingredients. Season to flavour: and cover with a lid. Cook over a gentle heat for 45 minutes.

Taste, then season to suit if required.

Best served on a bed of rice with a garnish of chopped parsley.

*****

Quick-Fry Lemon & Chilli Chicken

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken breasts (boneless)

         6 table spoons rapeseed oil

         2 hot chilli’s (fine chopped)

         2 lemons

         2 tsp sea salt

Preparation:

Add the oil and the chopped peppers into a large enough container to receive the chicken pieces.

Grate the lemons and add to the oil, then squeeze the juice and add to the mix, along with the sea salt.

Take the chicken breasts one at a time and flatten out gently with a roller until they are no more than ½ inch thick.

Add to the mix and marinade over-night if possible, in a fridge; making sure that the chicken is totally covered with the marinade.

Heat a griddle pan or barbeque until hot, then fry the chicken for about 15 minutes.

A tasty addition to any barbeque, best served with crusty bread and a light salad.

*****

Chicken & Vegetable Kebabs

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 lb (453g) chicken breast (boneless)

         1 onion (thick sliced)

         1 red pepper

         1 yellow pepper

         3 ox mushrooms (halved)

         4 table spoons rapeseed oil

         1 table spoon soy sauce

         2 tsp runny honey

         12 skewers

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the oil along with the soy sauce, seasoning and honey to a dish and mix through.

Cut the chicken and all the ingredients into bite-sized chunks, then put on the skewers alternating between the meat and the vegetables.

Brush over the skewers with the marinade, then cook on a barbeque (or grill) for 10-15 minutes, turning regularly.

Fantastic finger-food!

*****

Chicken Waldorf

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         3 chicken breasts (cooked)

         4 oz (113g) mayonnaise

         2 sticks celery (sliced and chopped)

         3 oz (85g) raisins

         2 apples cored and chopped

         2 table spoons lemon juice

         4 oz shelled chopped walnuts (or pecan nuts)

         1 Crisp fresh lettuce

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the mayonnaise into a bowl with the lemon juice, stirring thoroughly.

Add the chicken and all the other ingredients and mix well. Be sure to add the apple immediately after it is diced to prevent it going brown.

Serve on a bed of crispy lettuce leaves.

*****

Curried Chicken Salad

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         5 oz (141g) mayonnaise

         5 oz natural yogurt

         1 lemon

         1 table spoon curry powder

         1 table spoon sultanas

         1 table spoon raisins

         14 oz (396g) cooked chicken

         2 bananas (sliced)

         1 crispy lettuce (sliced)

         1 yellow pepper (sliced)

         1 onion (sliced)

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the mayo, curry powder and yogurt to a dish, and mix through the juice and gratings of the lemon.

Add the chicken, raisins, sultana’s and half the banana.

Toss the chopped lettuce and the peppers and onion together, then add the mix.

Finish off the topping with the rest of the chopped banana.

*****

Spatchcocked Chicken Stew

(Serves 2-4)

Ingredients:

         1 Small Chicken (cleaned and spatchcocked-(split in half)

         8 shallots (whole)

         2 red or yellow peppers (sliced)

         1 clove garlic (crushed)

         1 table spoon butter

         1 table spoon olive oil

         2 potatoes (diced small)

         1 – 14 oz tin chopped tomatoes

         ½ pint chicken stock

         1 glass red wine

         Salt & pepper

Preparation:

Heat the oil and butter in a large sauce pan, then add the spatchcocked chicken, turning frequently until all sides are browned.

Once this is done, then pour away excess fat, leaving just a little and add the shallots, potatoes and garlic. Fry for a further 4-5 mins before adding the peppers, chopped tomatoes, wine and stock. Season with salt & pepper.

Cover with a lid and simmer for 45 minutes.

Serve on a bed of steamed rice.

*****

Fried Chicken With Lemon & Ginger

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken drumsticks (skinned)

         4 chicken thighs (skinned)

         3 table spoons virgin olive oil

         4 oz (113g) plain flour

         1 tsp paprika

         2 tsp dried ginger

         1 lemon (juiced and grated)

         1 table honey

         1 tsp chilli flakes

         Salt & crushed black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the olive oil to a container along with the lemon juice, chilli flakes, honey, salt & pepper and mix thoroughly.

Put the flour into a container and add the paprika, and dried ginger and season with salt & pepper.

Coat the chicken with the marinade, then dip into the flour mix before setting in the fridge for 60 minutes. Re-coat with the flour then place into a hot pan and brown for 10-15 minutes on a high heat.

Place into a hot oven (250c) on a baking tray and cook for a further 30 minutes.

*****

Spicy Moroccan Chicken Thighs

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         8 boneless chicken thighs (skinned)

         1 onion thin sliced

         1 tsp cumin

         1 tsp ginger

         1 tsp coriander

         1 tsp chilli flakes

         1 clove garlic (chopped fine)

         1 tsp garam masala

         1 table spoon butter

         1 table spoon olive oil

         8 oz (226g) packet dried apricots

         1 14 oz tin chick peas

         ½ pint (0.24 ltr) chicken broth

         Salt & black pepper to season

Preparation:

Into a hot saucepan add the butter and oil, then fry the chicken for 5-10 minutes until browned. Remove excess fat, leaving just a little.

Remove the chicken then add the onion and garlic, along with the other spices fry for 3-4 minutes until softened then add the chicken broth, and chicken pieces.

Cover with a lid, Salt & pepper to season and cook for 35-40 minutes. Add the chickpeas and apricots; then simmer for further 15 minutes.

Serve on a bed of brown rice or couscous

*****

Chilli Chicken Schnitzels

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken breasts

         6 slices stale bread

         1 tsp chilli flakes

         3 table spoons plain flour

         1 egg (beaten)

         1 lemon (squeezed)

         1 table spoon rapeseed oil

         Salt & pepper

Preparation:

Place the flour, salt & pepper and chilli flakes into a container.

Place the beaten egg into another container.

Reduce the stale bread to fine breadcrumbs using a suitable processor; add to another container.

Flatten out the chicken breasts, by beating gently with a roller until no thicker than a half inch or so. Season with salt & pepper.

Spread the flour on a plate and coat the chicken first in the flour, then dip into the egg; then coat in the breadcrumbs. Press firmly so that they stick.

Place in the fridge for at least half an hour.

To cook, place the schnitzels into a very hot pan with some oil and cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

Sprinkle with the lemon juice, season and serve.

*****

Fried Chicken With Crème-Fresh & Paprika Sauce

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 ½ lb (680g) cooked chicken

         0.75 pint (0.35 ltr) low fat crème fresh

         1 onion (diced)

         1 garlic clove (diced)

         2 table spoons tomato relish

         1 table spoon tomato sauce

         1 tsp sea salt

         3 tsp smoked paprika

         Crushed black pepper

Preparation:

Cut or tear the chicken into bite-size pieces, then fry with the sea salt and black pepper until crispy brown. Remove to a warm place.

Add the onion and garlic to the pan and fry until soft for 3-4 minutes, then lower the heat and add the tomato relish, sauce crème fresh and paprika. Mix thoroughly and simmer for 5 minutes before adding the chicken. Cook for a further 5 minutes on a low heat.

If needed then add some water to make a runnier consistency.

Taste, then season to suit.

Delicious served on a bed of twirl pasta or steamed rice.

*****

Spicy Chicken Burgers

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1  lb (453g) ground (minced) chicken

         1 small onion (fine diced)

         2 tsp chilli flakes

         1 tsp paprika

         1 tsp mixed dried herbs

         1 table spoon tomato ketchup

         4 oz (113g) breadcrumbs

         1 egg (beaten)

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Lightly fry the onion in a pan for 2-3 minutes to soften. Remove and place in a mixing bowl with the other ingredients.

Mix thoroughly then form into patties about ½ inch (10mm) thick.

Fry evenly on each side for 5-10 minutes.

Serve in buns or on a bed of crispy lettuce with a tomato relish.

*****

Chicken & Sweetcorn Chowder With Toasted Almonds

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         12 oz (340g) diced chicken breast

         4 oz lean bacon (chopped)

         1 onion (sliced)

         1 clove garlic (fine diced)

         1 small tin sweetcorn

         4 large potatoes (diced)

         1 tsp dried mixed herbs

         2 table spoons toasted almonds

         1 pint full cream milk

         ½ pint water

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr)

         1 red pepper (chopped small)

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

In a saucepan, fry the bacon until crispy, remove, then drain excess fat from the pan. Add the onion and garlic and fry for 2-3 minutes till softened then add the mixed herbs, chicken and diced potato; fry for a further 5-10 minutes.

Add the milk, sweetcorn, pepper, water and chicken pieces; bring to the boil, season with salt & pepper  ( be careful in case the bacon is very salty) and cover with a lid to simmer for 25 minutes.

Add the single cream and toasted Almonds and simmer gently for a further 5 mins.

Sprinkle the bacon pieces over the top when serving.

Best served with a good crusty loaf of brown wholemeal bread.

*****

Lemon & Rosemary Roast Chicken

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         1 - 3 lb (1.36kg) whole chicken

         1 table spoon butter

         1 lemon (cut into wedges)

         3 sprigs rosemary

         2 cloves garlic (crushed)

         1 tsp smoked paprika

         1 table spoon soy sauce

         1 table spoon virgin olive oil

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

After cleaning the chicken and removing giblets if any; stuff the interior with the lemon, rosemary, and garlic.

Melt the butter and olive oil together in a container and mix through the paprika and soy sauce.

Place the chicken in a roasting tray and brush over half the mixture. Season with salt & pepper.

Cook at 190C for 75-80 minutes, or until juice runs clear when pierced at the thickest points. Brush over with remaining mix halfway through cooking process.

Keep the moisture in the baking tray and skim away excess fat. Add chicken gravy granules to give a really tasty gravy.

Delicious carved and served with traditional roast and mashed potatoes and vegetables.

*****

Traditional Coq au Vin

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 chicken thighs

         4 chicken drumsticks

         6 oz (170g) Smokey bacon (rind less, chopped)

         1 bouquet garni

         6 oz small button mushrooms

         1 doz shallots or small onions

         2 table spoons rapeseed oil

         1 table spoon butter

         2 garlic cloves

         ¾ pint (0.34 ltr) red wine

         3 table spoons brandy

         2 tsp  dried mixed herbs

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Heat the oil and butter in a saucepan and fry the chicken pieces for 5-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove from pan and add the bacon, frying for 4-5 minutes then adding the onion, garlic and mushrooms.

Fry for a further 5 minutes, then add the chicken pieces. Heat the Brandy or Cognac in a saucepan, carefully set alight and pour over the chicken pieces.

When the flaming has subsided then add the wine, bouquet garni, herbs and simmer for a further 40 minutes.

Thicken sauce if needed with a little cornflour, cooking for a further 5 minutes.

Best served with a buttery mashed potato and vegetables.

*****

Chicken Breast Stuffed With Apricots & Cream Cheese

(Serves 2)

Ingredients:

         2 large chicken breasts

         2 oz (56g) apricots (chopped fine)

         2 table spoons cream cheese

         2 table spoons apricot preserve or jam

         Salt & Pepper to season

Preparation:

Mix the cream cheese, apricots and preserve together in a suitable dish.

Carefully flatten out the chicken breasts to about ½ and inch (10mm), with the use of a kitchen roller; season with salt & pepper then lay out on an oiled oven dish.

Spoon the mixture into the centre of the chicken and pull together with cocktail sticks or twine to hold in place.

Place in a hot oven (250C) for approx 35 minutes.

*****

Herby Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Cream Cheese & Prunes

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         4 Chicken breasts

         4 table spoons cream cheese

         4 table spoons chopped seeded prunes

         4 tsp mixed dry herbs

         4 table spoons runny honey

         Sea salt & pepper seasoning

Preparation:

Mix the cream cheese and the finely chopped prunes together in a suitable dish.

Carefully flatten out the chicken breasts to about ½ and inch (10mm), with the use of a kitchen roller; season with salt & pepper then lay out on an oiled oven dish.

Spoon the mixture into the centre of the chicken and pull together with cocktail sticks or twine to hold in place.

Brush over the honey and sprinkle with the mixed herbs. Season with salt & pepper.

Cook in a hot oven (250C) for 35 minutes.

Excellent serve with boiled potatoes and vegetables – even better with a cheese sauce!

*****

Farmhouse Kitchen

Recipes:

Book 3: Easy Soups

To Make At Home

By

F A Paris

Introduction

Being a ‘child of the country’ I was brought up on soups, there-fore finding recipes for easy soups to make at home was always a priority, mostly the non-exotic variety as my mother was some-what limited in the choice of vegetables and other ingredients. Today however we are totally spoiled for choice with regard to the varieties of vegetables and the seasonings available.

Let me say from the outset – I just love soup! Generally fairly easy to make, with simple ingredients; soup was and still is a mainstay of our family’s diet. I learned well from my mum that even in financially difficult times, you can make sure the family is well nourished and healthy for minimal cost, by knocking up a quick pot of hot soup. 

In my mother’s day, things like red peppers or sweetcorn were just not available to someone living on the East coast of Scotland; and vegetables had to be chosen according to the local growing season and just what was available. The large supermarkets have now made sure we have a massive choice at our fingertips, and there is no excuse at all for not producing tasty soups even on a very tight budget.

The examples listed in this work have all been tried and tested by myself and even friends and family who were more than happy to be the ‘guinea pigs’ in the soup trials. Taste is however a matter of taste – so to speak, so it goes without saying that you will love some of these recipes, and others you could probably do without; Hopefully it is more of the former!

Welcome to Easy Soups To Make At Home!

I do hope you enjoy these recipes and share them with your friends.

Oh, and none of these recipes contain garlic – basically because I am allergic to the stuff! However if you like garlic then feel free to add according to your tastes.

Enjoy!

General Hints & Tips

It must be said that cooking is generally ‘not an exact science,’ and indeed many recipes can be altered and changed without being detrimental to the dish itself.

Many times - especially when I was starting out – I would be extremely frustrated to find a recipe that I liked, but not having the ‘proper’ ingredients to make the dish – or so I thought!

Don’t be afraid to experiment by substituting something that you do not have – with something that is in the larder, you may be pleasantly surprised with the results!

It is’ taken as read’ that all vegetables and meats have been properly prepared before adding to the recipes.

Making stock

Making stock for your soups is not difficult, and can be done in a couple of ways.

Either you can make it by adding stock cubes to water as per the instructions, or you can do it yourself from scratch

The two main stocks used for soup are vegetable stock and chicken stock; both are easy to make and freeze for future use.

Vegetable stock

To make a good vegetable stock, simply chop a selection of vegetables into a pan of water and boil for 25 minutes or so. Add salt and pepper to taste, Strain out the vegetables, and you have your stock.

Alternatively just keep the water from your vegetables during your everyday cooking, and freeze for when you are making soup at a later date.

Chicken stock

This again is best done by boiling a chicken carcase,(perhaps the remains of a chicken after a meal) along with a chopped up onion and salt/pepper to taste; in a pot of water for approximately 25 minutes, then straining out the water/stock into a bowl.

Freeze for later use.

Measurements: These are in US standard measurements at the front with the European equivalent in brackets (  )

Dairy products: Products such as milk or double cream are generally not added to the soups until the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time.

Spicy Root Vegetable Soup

(Serves 6-8 people)

This is a family favourite, with an oriental spicy flavour.

Ingredients:

         1 Large butternut squash

         2 large diced onions

         1 ¼ lb (567g kg) carrots

         1 ¼ lb ( 567g) parsnips

         ½ small swede/turnip

         2 Large sweet potatoes

         1 tsp curry powder/paste

         ½ teaspoon garam masala

         ¼ tsp chilli powder

         ¼ tsp ginger powder

         2oz (56g) butter

         4 pints (1.89 ltrs) of ham stock (or water with 4 ham stock cubes)

         Splash of cooking oil (prevents butter from burning)

Preparation:

Dice all the vegetables into roughly 1” cubes.

Heat butter and oil in a large pot until melted, add the diced onions and spices. Fry for approx 1 minute stirring constantly.

Add the diced butternut squash and parsnips; fry gently for about 5 minutes.

Add the diced carrots, sweet potato and swede with the liquid stock. Put lid on pot and boil slowly until vegetables are tender which is usually about 25 minutes.

Remove and let cool; season with salt and black pepper then ‘blitz’ with a hand blender until smooth.

Re-heat for use.

Garnish with chives or a sprig of parsley.

This excellent soup freezes well, and ham stock can be replaced with a vegetable stock for vegetarian use.

*****

Cream of Mushroom Soup

(serves 6-8)

Simple yet delicious! Choose an ‘open’ mushroom for more flavour. Small button mushrooms lack flavour for this dish.

Ingredients:

         3 ¼ lb (1.47kg) mushrooms (sliced)

         1 ½ large onions

         1 ¼ pts (0.59 ltrs) chicken or vegetable stock

         7-10 fl oz. of double cream

         2 oz (56g) butter

         Splash of cooking oil

         ½ glass of sherry

         Black pepper

Preparation:

Gently melt the butter and oil in a large pot, adding the onion, sweat onions but do not color. Add a liberal dose of black pepper and then add the sliced (or diced) mushrooms.

Stir constantly for approx 5 minutes. Add the stock and boil gently for a further 20 minutes.

Allow to cool.

Blitz with a food processor or hand blender until smooth, add the sherry.

Add salt and pepper to season – taste!

Re-heat to serve - adding the double cream just before serving.

Freezes well, but do so without adding the double cream. This can be added later.

*****

Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 lb (454g) of carrots

         1 lb (454g) sweet potatoes

         2 pints (0.94 ltrs) ham or lamb stock

         1 cup orange juice or juice of three oranges

         Black pepper

         ¼ tsp of ginger powder

         1 diced peeled apple

         1 oz butter with a little cooking oil to prevent burning

         1 finely chopped onion

Preparation:

Dice or chop vegetables.

Heat butter, ginger and chopped onion until butter is melted and the onion has taken on an opaque look – do not brown.

Add stock, diced carrots, sweet potato, apple and orange juice to large enough pot. Add salt and pepper to season and boil for around 20 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.

Remove from heat and allow to cool. Blitz with a food processor or hand blender until smooth.

Re-heat to serve.

Freezes well.

*****

French Onion Soup

(Serves  4-5)

Even without garlic, this is an incredibly tasty dish – and so easy to make!

Ingredients:

         2.2 lb (1 kg) onions

         2 oz (56g) butter

         ¼ cup crushed black pepper

         1 glass white wine (optional)

         4 Oxo or beef stock cubes

         1 ¼ pints ( 0.59 ltrs) of water

         1 ½ tbl spoon white sugar

         1 ½ tbl spoon sherry

         Croutons – small cubes toasted bread.

         ¼ cup grated cheese

Preparation:

Heat a large heavy bottomed saucepan with the butter and black pepper.

Peel and half the onions; thinly slice and add to the butter and black pepper; cook for approx 3 minutes stirring constantly.

Add sugar, continuously stirring until the onions are brown and are becoming caramelized.

Add the water, white wine and crumbled up Oxo cubes (or equivalent). Boil for 20 minutes.

Taste and add salt to season according to your tastes. Remove from heat and add sherry just before serving; along with croutons covered with a little cheese (parmesan is usual) to garnish the soup.

Tasty Croutons can be easily made by making a little roasted cheese on toast; leaving to cool, and cutting up into little cubes!

*****

Potato & Vegetable Soup

(Serves 6-8)

Great soup for a cold winters day!

Ingredients:

         1 lb (454g) carrots

         ¾ lb (340g)parsnips

         1 leek (chopped)

         ¼ swede/turnip

         5 large potatoes

         1 large onion

         ½ tbl spoon dried mixed herbs

         Lamb shank

         2 pints (0.94 ltrs) water

Preparation:

Clean and dice half of the carrots, parsnips, and turnip. Grate the other half.

Dice the  onion and chop the potatoes into reasonable sized cubes.

Fill a large pot with the water, and add the diced onion and the lamb shank along with the herbs; with salt and black pepper to taste.

Add the diced and grated vegetables, including the chopped leek.

Bring to the boil for approx 60 minutes, then remove the lamb shank. Separate the meat from the lamb shank, chopping up into pieces; then return the meat to the soup.

Freezes well.

*****

Cream of Celery Soup

(Serves 6-8)

Ingredients:

         1 head of celery (about 6 stalks-chopped))

         1 large onion (diced)

         2 large potatoes (chopped)

         ½ tsp smoked paprika

         ¼ tsp celery salt

         2 pints (0.94 ltrs) chicken or vegetable stock

         Small cube butter and a little oil

         7 fl oz (0.20 ltr) double cream

Preparation:

Into a heavy based pot add the oil and butter, heat till melted. Add the diced onion and chopped celery, stirring constantly. Add the chopped potatoes along with the stock and bring to the boil.

Salt and pepper to season, boil for approx 25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Blitz with a blender or food processor. Re-heat before serving, adding the cream and stirring gently.

Freezes well, but freeze before cream is added. The cream should be added only when about to serve.

*****

Potato & Leek Soup

(Serves 6-8)

Ingredients:

         3.5 lb (1.58 kg) of potatoes (chopped)

         2 large leeks (chopped)

         1 onion (diced)

         1 large carrot (chopped)

         2.5 pints (1.18 ltrs) chicken or vegetable stock

         ½ tbl spoon crushed black pepper

Preparation:

Add the chicken stock to a suitable pan, bring to the boil whilst adding the chopped potatoes, carrots, leeks and diced onions.

Add salt and pepper to season and flavour. Boil for approx 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are beginning to soften.

*****

Cucumber Soup

(Serves 4)

Ingredients:

         1 large cucumber

         1 small onion

         1 large potato

         1 ½ pints (0.70 ltrs) vegetable stock

         4 fl oz (0.11) double cream

Preparation:

Peel and dice the onion, cucumber and the potato very finely.

Add to saucepan along with stock and bring to the boil. Add salt to season.

Boil for approx 25 minutes, then allow to cool.

When cooled, blitz with blender or food processor; then re-heat and add the double cream just before serving.

Farmhouse Cream of Tomato Soup

(Serves  4-6)

A fantastic smooth tomato soup, another family favourite that has them clamouring for more!

Ingredients:

         3.5 lb (1.58kg) of ripe tomatoes (skinned & chopped)

         1 large onion (fine diced)

         1 celery stalk (chopped fine)

         1 small potato (fine diced)

         1 tbl spoon tomato puree

         1 ½ pints (0.70 ltrs) chicken stock

         ¼ tbls smoked paprika

         1 tbls white sugar

         7 fl oz (0.20) double cream

         ¼ tbls crushed black pepper

         2 slices of smoked bacon (optional)

         Dollop of butter & splash of cooking oil

Preparation:

Prepare the tomatoes by crossing with a knife lightly along the bottom, then adding to boiling water for about 1 minute. Remove and peel away the skins. Chop ready to add to stock.

In a large heavy bottomed pan, heat the butter and oil then add the diced onion, pepper and paprika. Cook for two minutes, do not allow onion to color.

Add the stock along with the chopped celery, potato, chopped tomatoes and sugar.

Add the bacon rashers (optional) and boil for approx 40 mins.

Remove bacon rashers if added, then leave to cool. When cooled, blitz in a blender and re-heat, adding the cream and mixing thoroughly before serving.

Freezes well, if cream is excluded. This can be added separately before serving.

*****

Cream of Cauliflower Soup

(Serves 6-8)

This is a truly fantastic creamy smooth soup that has proved to be a huge hit with my dinner guests – even those that do not like cauliflower!

Ingredients:

         2 cauliflower heads

         2 large potatoes

         1 large onion

         2.5 pints (1.18 ltrs) chicken stock

         10 fl oz (0.29 ltr) double cream

         ¼ tbls black or white pepper

         ½ tbls French mustard

         ½ tbls celery salt

         1 glass white wine

         Parsley

Preparation:

Into a large pot add the chicken stock, pepper, mustard and celery salt.

Roughly chop cauliflower heads, potatoes and add to the mix. Finely chop the onion and add to the pan. Boil for approx 40 minutes.

Allow to cool, then blitz with a blender or food processor.

Re-heat and add cream before serving, mixing thoroughly.

Garnish with a sprig of parsley.

Freezes well, but do not add cream before freezing.

*****

Ham & Lentil Soup

(Serves 6-8)

A rich thick soup guaranteed to ‘stick to your ribs’ as my parents used to say – enjoy!

Ingredients:

         10 oz (283g) lentils

         2 small onions

         ½ swede or turnip

         1.5lb (680g) carrots

         ½ tbls black pepper

         2.5 pints(1.18 ltrs) ham stock (alternatively water plus 1 ham hock)

         Crispy bacon pieces

Preparation:

Wash lentils and soak overnight in cold water. Rinse lentils one more time and place in water with the ham hock, or into the ham stock depending on your chosen method.

Peel and dice the carrots, onions and turnip; adding all to the stock. Bring to the boil for approximately 1.5 hours.

Leave to cool, then blitz with blender or food processor. Salt and pepper to season.

To garnish, try  a little crispy bacon chopped into slices and scattered over the top.

*****

Spicy Chicken & Sweetcorn Soup

(Serves 4-6)

Made from left-over chicken carcase – cooked or raw - this is an ideal starter for your chicken main course.

Ingredients:

         1 carrot (sliced)

         1 onion (diced)

         8 baby sweetcorn (chopped)

         1 handful barley or rice

         Chicken carcase

         2 pints (0.94 ltrs) water

         Tsp of chili flakes

         1 chicken stock cube

Heat up some cooking oil in a heavy bottomed pan, and add the chicken pieces or carcase. Cook for approx 5 minutes stirring regularly, then add the onion. Cook for a further 3-5 mins until onion is soft, then add the water.

Leave for a further 20 minutes or so, then remove the chicken carcase and any pieces. Remove any chicken from the bones, and return the chicken scraps to the water.

Add the chopped sweetcorn, chili flakes and the barley or rice.

Break down the stock cube and add to the soup.

Cook for a further 25 minutes then add  salt and pepper to season.

Taste, and add more salt if needed.

*****

Slow Cooker Soups

Here is a selection of delicious Slow Cooker soups, that are bound to impress you with the full-on flavour that only a slow cooker can give you.

Carrot & Red Lentil Soup

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

         1 lb (453g) carrots diced

         3 oz (85g) red lentils

         1 large onion (diced & chopped)

         2 tsp dried ginger

         1 tsp garam masala

         2 tsp curry powder (or paste)

         2 pints (0.94 ltr) chicken or vegetable stock

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) full fat milk

         Parsley to garnish

         1 table spoon vegetable oil

         ½ oz of butter

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Add the onion, oil and butter to a hot saucepan and fry until onions are turning opaque. Add the chicken stock and season with salt & pepper; bring to the boil then pour into the slow cooker.

Add the rest of the ingredients minus the milk, and cook on ‘low’ for 4-5 hours.

At this stage the soup can be blended to make it smooth, or it can be left chunky. Mix through the full cream milk about 15 minutes before the end of cooking.

Serve with a garnish of parsley.

*****

Cod & Haddock Chowder

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

         1 large onion (diced)

         1 spoon rapeseed oil

         ½ oz butter

         10 oz (283g) diced potatoes

         5 oz (141g) Cod (boned & chopped bite sized)

         5 oz haddock (boned & chopped bite sized)

         2 sticks celery (chopped)

         1 ½ pints (0.70 ltr) fish stock

         ½ pint (0.23 ltr) full fat milk

         ¼ pint (0.11 ltr) single cream

         Salt & Pepper to taste

Preparation:

Place the onions, oil and butter into a hot saucepan and fry until soft.

Add the chopped potatoes and celery to the pan, and fry for 4-5 minutes, then add the fish stock and bring to the boil.

Add the mix to the slow cooker and cook on ‘low’ for 3 hours.

Add the milk and the fish to the dish, then cook for a further 30 minutes.

Add the cream and cook for 10-15 minutes.

Season with salt & pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and

Serve with a crusty loaf of bread.

*****

Traditional Cock-A-Leekie Soup

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         2-3 leeks (trimmed and chopped)

         3 chicken breasts (diced to bite sized)

         2 potatoes (diced)

         1 carrot (chopped)

         1 ½ pints (0.70 ltr) chicken stock

         1 onion (sliced)

         2 table spoons vegetable oil

         ½ oz butter

         Salt & pepper to season

Preparation:

Add the oil and butter to a hot saucepan along with the chopped chicken pieces and fry for 5 minutes.

Add the chopped onion, potato and leeks then fry for a further 2-3 minutes, adding salt and pepper to season.

Add the ingredients to the slow cooker, then add the stock to the saucepan and bring to the boil.

Add the mix to the slow cooker, along with the chopped carrot and cook on ‘low’ for 5-6 hours.

*****

Slow Cooker Chicken Broth

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         2 chicken thighs

         1 chopped onion

         5 oz (141g) dried broth mix

         2 carrots (chopped)

         2 pints (0.94 ltr) chicken stock

         1 tsp mixed herbs

         1 table spoon olive oil

         Garnish of parsley

         ½ oz butter

         Salt & black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Leave the broth mix to soak overnight in a bowl of water, then drain and add to the slow cooker.

Add the oil, butter and chicken into a hot saucepan. Fry until the chicken begins to brown, then remove and place into the slow cooker with the mix..

Fry the onion in the saucepan (after removing excess oil/fat) until softened, then add the chicken stock and the other ingredients.

Cook on ‘low’ for 6-8 hours, then remove the chicken pieces; place on a chopping board and carefully remove the chicken from the bone.

Chop the boned chicken into bite-sized pieces and place back into the soup; seasoning with plenty salt and pepper to season.

Garnish with a little parsley sprinkled on top.

*****

Smoked Gammon & Sweet Potato

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         ¾ lb (340g) smoked gammon joint

         1 lb sweet potato (diced)

         1 onion (chopped)

         1 ½ pints (0.70 ltr) vegetable or chicken stock

         1 tsp French mustard

         1 garlic clove (fine chopped)

         1 table spoon honey

         1 tsp curry powder

         2 parsnips (chopped)

         ¼ pint (0.11 ltr) double cream

         1 Table spoon olive oil

         Salt & black pepper to taste

Preparation:

Soak the gammon joint in water overnight to remove excess salt, keep in a cool place.

Fry the onion, garlic & sweet potato in a saucepan for 3-4 minutes, before adding the stock and bring to the boil.

Place the gammon in the slow cooker and pour over the contents of the saucepan.

Add the other ingredients - minus the double cream - then leave to cook on ‘low’ for 7-8 hours.

Carefully remove the gammon joint and place on a chopping board.

Blitz the soup in a blender to make smooth (miss this step if a rougher consistency is required – be careful with hot soup! Cool first if necessary), then return to the slow cooker.

Remove the meat from the gammon joint, and cut into small pieces, then return to the cooker.

Add the double cream, mixing through, and cook for a further 15 minutes.

Salt & pepper to season

Traditional Ham & Pea

(serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

         ¾ lb (340g) ham joint

         8 oz (226g) dried split peas

         2 onions (chopped)

         1 carrot (chopped)

         1 small turnip or swede (chopped)

         1 garlic clove (crushed)

         2 sprigs of mint

         2 pints (0.94 ltr) ham or chicken stock

         1 table spoon oil

         Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:

Soak ham overnight in water to remove excess salt, then add to the slow cooker.

Add the oil to a hot saucepan and fry the onion and garlic until soft, then add the stock.

Simmer for 2-3 minutes then add to the cooker with the rest of the ingredients.

Cook for 6-7 hours then remove the ham and place on a chopping board.

Leave to cool, then add the contents of the slow cooker to a Blitzer or use a handheld device to blitz the mixture until smooth.

Chop or shred the ham, then add to the soup mix.

Re-heat before serving.

Taste then add seasoning as required.

Summary

Making soup is perhaps one of the most satisfying cooking experiences in the kitchen, as it is relatively simple and produces a good tasty dish in quick-time.

Soup can be made from almost anything, so do not be afraid to substitute or chop and change the recipes to suit you or your family’s tastes.

Try experimenting with herbs (fresh or dried) to enhance flavours. Fresh hot chilies can also be chopped and added to ‘spice things up’.

Tomato soup for instance can be given a boost by adding a couple of spoonful’s of tomato relish, and almost any soup will benefit from a level tablespoonful of sugar as this acts as a flavour enhancer.

Also don’t be afraid to water down the soup if it is too thick for your tastes, or indeed not add as much stock if you prefer a thicker soup. A little arrow-root or cornflour can be added to thicken if it is required.

I hope you enjoy these soup recipes, my family and friends certainly have! And indeed manage to get many more recipes, by using these ones to trigger your imagination and expand your soup selection choices.

If you have liked these soup recipes, then please let me know by leaving a review/comment on Amazon.

Copyright:

Copyright 2013,  F. A. Paris

All rights reserved. Copyright protected. Duplicating, reprinting or distributing this material without the express written consent of the author is prohibited.

While reasonable attempts have been made to assure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication, the author does not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretation of this information, and any damages incurred by that.

The author does not assume any responsibility or liability whatsoever, for what you choose to do with this information.

The cooking techniques described in this publication are for your general guidance only.

Use your own judgment.