Showing posts with label spices. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spices. Show all posts

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Bridgerton Brunch: Scandal & Spice: Lady Featherington’s Honeyed Tea Loaf





A genteel loaf kissed with honey and laced with warm spice—perfect for tea, whispers, and perhaps a stolen glance across the parlor.




Click here to begin your immersive experience.




A Continuing Affair: The Bridgerton Brunch Series

Dearest Gentle Reader,

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you once again to Bridgerton Brunch—a most enchanting culinary affair where Regency elegance meets modern delight. This delectable series takes inspiration from the sumptuous style and scandalous charm of the Ton, offering recipes worthy of Lady Whistledown’s approval and perfect for elevating one’s weekend repast.

This entry marks the second installment in our ongoing fĂȘte of flavors. Following the sweet success of Strawberries & Secrets: A French Toast Affair, we now turn our gaze to a new centerpiece of drama and decadence: a honey-kissed spiced tea loaf so divine, it would surely find favor in Lady Featherington’s flamboyant parlour.

Yours in honeyed indulgence and high society whispers,
Slice of Southern




"One mustn’t gossip on an empty stomach… and Lady Featherington’s tea loaf ensures both the chatter and the crumbs are sweetly spiced."

Lady Whistledown



Scandal & Spice: Lady Featherington’s Honeyed Tea Loaf

While most are busy chasing titles and fortune this season, this author has discovered a far more delicious pursuit: brunch. And not just any brunch—one graced by the golden presence of Lady Featherington’s spiced honey tea loaf.

Lightly sweet, warmly spiced, and utterly irresistible, this genteel loaf has become the talk of morning tables across the ton. With cinnamon, clove, and a whisper of honeyed charm, it’s the sort of bake that inspires lingering glances and even longer conversations over second cups of tea. (Or third slices—this author shall not judge.)

Served warm or sliced cold with a pat of butter, it’s the perfect centerpiece for a Bridgerton Brunch—an elegant gathering where scandal is sipped alongside Earl Grey and secrets are as well-layered as the table linens.

And if it happens to steal the spotlight from the hostess? Well, some things are simply destined to shine.





A Toast to Elegance

Golden, tender, and kissed with the warmth of honey and spice, Lady Featherington’s Honeyed Tea Loaf is a slice of refined indulgence. With its delicate crumb and aromatic notes of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, it whispers of afternoon teas and whispered secrets. Whether served warm with a touch of butter or alongside your favorite floral brew, this charming loaf is the very definition of brunch-worthy elegance—scandalously good, yet proper enough for the finest parlor.



Perfect Pairings for a Bridgerton Brunch Table

A proper tea loaf deserves equally delightful company. These charming additions will elevate your table—and your reputation among the ton.

  • Music: Bridgerton-style string covers (try Vitamin String Quartet) + light Baroque instrumentals for a flirtatious, elegant vibe.

  • Tea: Earl Grey with lavender, Lady Grey with orange peel, or a cozy spiced chai—perfect matches for the honeyed warmth of the loaf.

  • Libation:  Honeyed Gin Fizz or Sparkling RosĂ© with rosemary—for a bit of sparkle and just a hint of scandal.

  • Decor Tip:  Pastel linens, vintage teacups, lace napkins, and fresh peonies. Add gold teaspoons for Lady Featherington-level flair.




Lady Whistledown’s Final Word

As any true connoisseur of society knows, the success of a gathering lies in the details—and Lady Featherington’s Honeyed Tea Loaf offers a most delicious detail indeed. With its heady aroma, tender crumb, and whisper of spice, it is sure to be the talk of the table (and perhaps the town). Whether served to impress your dearest friends or to elevate a quiet morning alone, this loaf proves that a touch of sweetness and a dash of scandal never go out of style. 

As Lady Featherington would say… until next time, darlings—may your tea be strong, your loaf be sweeter, and your reputation remain mostly intact.





Your Turn to Spill the (Earl Grey) Tea ☕

Did Lady Featherington’s honeyed loaf make an appearance at your table? Share your thoughts, baking triumphs, or scandalous substitutions in the comments below—Whistledown is positively buzzing to hear more.



















Friday, December 13, 2024

One Pot Meal: Turkish-Style Pilau

A hearty, one-pot Turkish pilau bursting with flavor and simplicity!




Turkish-Style Pilau


Turkish pilau is a simply a rice dish that includes meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices.  While not a classic preparation, today’s recipe captures the essence of Turkish flavors in a convenient one-pot dish.  Basmati rice bakes with ground turkey, onions, crisp green beans, and sweet dried apricot until the grains are tender. But, the deliciousness doesn't stop there; pre-made tzatziki adds a creamy element, along with fresh mint and pistachios for crunch. This is incredibly easy to make, with simple steps that require minimal prep and just one pot for cooking. The all-in-one method ensures a hassle-free experience, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This one-pot Turkish-Style Pilau is a flavorful and wholesome dish that combines tender ground turkey, vibrant green beans, sweet dried apricots, and aromatic spices for a balanced meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Its simple, single-pot method makes cleanup a breeze, while the addition of walnuts and fresh mint elevates the dish with a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, it’s a versatile recipe that captures the essence of Turkish-inspired cuisine.

Enjoy!






What Ingredients do I need?

  • Produce
    • green beans
    • yellow onion
    • dried apricots
    • Fresh mint
  • Protein
    • Ground turkey
  • Grains
    • Basmati rice
  • Dairy
    • Tzatziki sauce
  • Nuts
    • Walnuts

Substitutions and Variations

  • Ground turkey: Substitute with ground chicken, beef, lamb, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
  • Green beans: Swap with asparagus, zucchini, snap peas, or bell peppers.
  • Yellow onion: Use red onion, white onion, shallots, or even leek.
  • Dried apricots: Replace with raisins, dried cranberries, dried cherries, or chopped dates.
  • Basmati rice: Use jasmine rice, long-grain white rice, quinoa, or bulgur wheat.
  • Turkish seasoning: Substitute with a mix of ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cinnamon or allspice.
  • Chicken broth: Replace with vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water with a bouillon cube for added flavor.
  • Walnuts: Use almonds, pistachios, pine nuts, or skip entirely for a nut-free option.
  • Fresh mint: Substitute with fresh parsley, cilantro, basil, or dill.
  • Tzatziki Sauce:  Use plain Greek yogurt mixed with minced garlic, cucumber, dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice, or substitute with sour cream or a yogurt-based dip of your choice.

  • For a Vegetarian Version:  Replace ground turkey with chickpeas, lentils, or cubed tofu.  Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.  Include diced tomatoes or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
  • For a Mediterranean-Inspired Version: Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives.  Use oregano, thyme, and fresh parsley instead of mint.  Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.




Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Prepare Ingredients in Advance:  Dice vegetables, chop herbs, and measure spices before starting. This makes the cooking process smoother and prevents overcooking.
  • Use a Tight-Fitting Lid:  When simmering the pilau, ensure the pot has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.





     Items You May Need   





HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.








Turkish-Style Pilau


serves 6


10 oz of ground turkey
1 lb green beans
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 Tablespoon olive oil
salt & pepper
4 oz dried apricots, diced
1 1/4 cups basmati rice
2 teaspoons Turkish Seasoning
3 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 - 1/3 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.  Trim green beans and cut into 1 inch pieces.  In a Dutch oven heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium high heat.  Add the onions and cook until slightly softened and lightly browned, 2-3 minutes.  Move the onions to one side of the pan and add in the ground turkey.  Season everything in the pan with salt & pepper.  Break meat up into large pieces and allow to cook undisturbed until browned on the bottom, about 4-5 minutes.  The meat will finish cooking in the oven.

Add in rice, green beans, and Turkish seasonings to the skillet.  Add the broth, apricots, and scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.  Turn the heat up to high and bring to a boil.

Cover with a lid and transfer to the oven.  Back 17 minutes until the meat is cooked through and the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.  Fluff rice with a fork.  Check for seasoning and add salt & pepper as needed.  

Stir mint into the rice.  Slightly thin out the tzatziki by stirring in 1 teaspoon (or more if needed) of water until thin enough to drizzle.  Plate the Pilau into bowls and drizzle with tzatziki and sprinkle with walnuts on top.











Monday, December 9, 2024

Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs

Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs are tender, flavorful cheese & turkey meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with more gooey, melted cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for pairing with pasta, crusty bread, or enjoying on its own as a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal!




Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs


Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs are such a great meatball recipe that I've made them twice this week!  Once with ground turkey which is what this recipe is, and again using ground beef.  You are going to just love these.  They are a delicious and nutritious choice for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The combination of lean ground turkey and flavorful spices makes these meatballs very tasty will being tender and cheesy.  They taste really delicious! 

They are incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknights and weekends when you need a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can mix the turkey, cheese, and spices, then scoop the mixture into meatballs—no complicated steps required. Simply bake in the oven, giving you time to prep a side dish or relax. You'll have a hearty meal ready in under an hour. 

Enjoy!




What Ingredients do I need?

Meat & Dairy:

  • 2 lbs ground turkey - 7% or 15% fat for juicy meatballs
  • grated Parmesan
  • egg
  • mozzarella cheese - for shredding

Herbs & Spices:

  • onion powder
  • fresh garlic
  • Italian seasoning
  • black pepper
  • cayenne pepper
  • crushed red pepper flakes
  • fresh basil or parsley (for topping)

Sauces & Condiments:

  • 1 24 oz. jar Marinara sauce



Substitutions and Variations


Substitutions

  • Turkey: Substitute with ground chicken, lean ground beef, or a mix of beef and pork for a different protein base.
  • Cheese:  Use cheddar, provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella or Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
  • Marinara Sauce:  Swap with homemade tomato sauce, Alfredo sauce, or a creamy pink sauce for a different flavor profile.
  • Seasonings:  Replace Italian seasoning with fresh or dried oregano, thyme, or basil to customize the herb blend.
  • Spice Level:  Omit cayenne and red pepper flakes for a milder dish, or add chili powder or sriracha for more heat.
These substitutions ensure flexibility while keeping the dish delicious and satisfying!


Variations
  • Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:  Serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or on their own instead of pasta.
  • Herby Delight:  Mix in fresh chopped herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano into the meatballs for a burst of fresh flavor.
  • Vegetable Boost:  Add finely grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the meatball mixture for added nutrition and moisture.
These simple changes allow for a variety of flavors while maintaining the essence of the dish!




Kitchen Tips and Notes


  • Use Ground Turkey with Some Fat:  Opt for ground turkey with a little fat (not 99% lean) to keep the meatballs tender and flavorful.
  • Don’t Overmix:  Gently combine the ingredients to avoid dense meatballs. Overmixing can make them tough.
  • Uniform Meatballs:  Use a small cookie scoop or wet your hands to shape evenly sized meatballs for consistent cooking.
  • Presentation Tip:  Top with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan just before serving for a restaurant-style finish.
  • Moist Meatballs:  Turkey can be lean, so don’t skip the cheese and egg in the mixture; they add moisture and help prevent the meatballs from drying out.
  • Sauce Quality Matters:  Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or make your own for the best flavor. A robust sauce complements the mild turkey meatballs perfectly.
  • Serving Suggestions:  Serve over pasta, rice, polenta, zucchini noodles, or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Make-Ahead and Freezing:  Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them raw or cooked. Reheat in marinara sauce when ready to serve for a quick meal.
  • Portion Size:  This recipe makes a generous batch of meatballs, great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Halve the recipe if cooking for a smaller group.





     Items you may need     
Marinara Sauce




    Other Meatball Recipes     

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.







Cheesy Turkey Marinara Meatballs


yield:  21 - 25 meatballs


2 lbs ground turkey
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1 egg
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons fresh minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper,
a pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1 jar Marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, for topping

Preheat the oven to 400ÂșF.  Lightly spray a large casserole dish with cooking spray.

Combine ground turkey, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, onion powder, garlic, Italian seasoning, cayenne, and crushed red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl. Mix gently to incorporate the ingredients.  Use a small cookie scoop to form the meatballs and arrange in the casserole dish 1 inch apart.  Use two casserole dishes if necessary.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove from the oven.  Top with the Marinara sauce and shredded cheese bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese has fully melted.

Serve with a side salad and crusty bread, over pasta, rice or zucchini noodles.











Monday, October 7, 2024

Simple Breakfasts: Avocado Egg Toast

A 5 minute recipe that boasts to be the near-perfect breakfast!




Avocado Egg Toast


Don't you just love avocado toast?  We just love avocados any way we can get them but especially love them on toast.  Today we are going to add a little "oomph" by adding a protein-rich egg.   You'll get more nutrients and stay satisfied longer with this avocado egg combination.  It's a quick meal that you can be happy about waking up to.

Did I mention that this is a 5 minute recipe?  These are perfect for busy weekends and really can be served anytime of day.  We'll jazz up some mashed avocado with a little spice, place that on toasted  sourdough, top it with an egg, and finish it with some scallions and a drizzle of Sriracha.  This is truly a delicious meal! 

Now my husband LOVES sunny side up eggs.  Me? not so much so I would opt for scrambled.  But however you enjoy your eggs it's work with this dish.  Even hard boiled cut into slices would work.  This is all about the combination of flavors and the extra protein you get in every bite.  This is a breakfast winner you'll want to have in your back pocket to up the anti on a quick meal.

Enjoy!












What Ingredients do I need?

  • avocado - choose a ripe one
  • egg
  • sourdough bread
  • garlic powder
  • black pepper
  • Sriracha
  • scallions (green onions)


Substitutions and Variations

  • Bread:  Use multigrain or country Italian.  Just make sure the bread is large enough to hold the egg.
  • Eggs:  Try scrambled or over easy eggs.  Even hard boiled (sliced) will work.
  • Garnish:  Try your favorite hot sauce on top such as harissa, Cholula, or a little Calabrian Chili sauce.
  • Add other seasonings:  Skip the hot sauce and sprinkle on a dash of everything bagel seasoning, za'atar, or even herbes de Provence. 



Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Bread: Choose a thick bread that will hold up to toppings. Try a  multigrain or whole-wheat bread which will add an additional layer of flavor along with fiber to your avocado toast.
  • Avocado:  Use a ripe avocado, one that gives to slight pressure but doesn't feel mushy. Some small blemishes in the flesh are OK; just remove them before mashing.
  • Saving leftover avocado:  You’ll only need 1/4 of an avocado for this recipe, so you’ll need to save the rest. The best way to do this is to leave as much of the remaining avocado intact as possible. That means leaving the skin and pit attached to the remaining piece of avocado before covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating. Make sure the plastic wrap is directly touching the flesh to prevent exposure to oxygen, and browning.  


HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.








Avocado Egg Toast


1 serving


¼ avocado
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
1 slice sourdough bread, toasted
1 large egg, fried sunny side up
drizzle of Sriracha
1 tablespoon scallion, sliced

Halve an avocado. Cut the one half of the avocado in half lengthwise and remove the peel, placing the flesh in a small bowl. Add in the pepper and garlic powder and mash the avocado and mix with the seasonings.

Add nonstick cooking spray or extra-virgin olive oil to a small nonstick pan. Heat over medium low heat. Once the pan is hot, crack the egg and add it to the skillet. Cook, undisturbed, until the whites are set and the edges are crispy, about 3 minutes. Once it’s ready, move the skillet off the heat.

Place the avocado mash onto the toast, top with the egg, and garnish with the Sriracha and scallion. Serve.













Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Chai Banana Bread

Ramp up your classic banana bread with the warming flavors of chai.  It will leave you with all the comfort feels.




 

Chai Banana Bread


I think everyone mastered the art of baking "banana bread" during the pandemic don't you?  Well banana bread is a classic for a reason, it's so darn good!  Let's take that basic bread and move it up a notch by adding some chai spice to the mix.  I love a good chai latte.  The flavors of ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, just create the most magical spiced tea.  This spice blend is also wonderful in baked goods and is the perfect addition to banana bread.

This is a one bowl recipe and you don't need a mixer!  I just love that.  We always have overripe bananas left over from the week and they are perfect for banana bread, or muffins.  This is such an easy recipe that can be thrown together quickly with items from your pantry.  The baking time is a little long for such a dense quickbread so I would suggest making this on the weekend.  That way you can plan the baking time and will have this heavenly, incredibly delicious Chai Banana Bread all week long.  Perfect for breakfast, snacking, dessert, or with a cup of coffee or tea.

Enjoy!




What Ingredients do I need?

  • eggs 
  • medium ripe bananas
  • canola oil
  • milk
  • all purpose flour
  • baking powder
  • salt
  • light brown sugar or sugar substitute
  • walnuts


Substitutions and Variations

  • Flour - want a healthy bread with a more nutty flavor? use 1 cup of white whole wheat flour and 1 cup all purpose flour
  • Sugar - you can use regular granulated white sugar if you choose, or even dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor
  • Sugar substitute - Use a substitute that is good for baking.  I like King Arthur  Baking Sugar Alternative for white sugars, and Splenda Magic Baker Brown Zero Calorie Sweetener for my brown sugars
  • Nuts - Leave them out if you prefer or swap them for hazelnuts or pecans
  • Add Ins - Along with the Chai Spice try adding in mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped fruit like pears or plums.  





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Long Baking time - you will need 50 - 60 minutes of baking time and about 30 prep time, so plan ahead.
  • Chai Spice Blend sources:  
    • Spice House Chai Spices - I use this one and it has a hint of vanilla in it.
    • Amazon - Watkins Chai Powder - This does have a trace of tea in it and no vanilla.  If you want a vanilla hint add some to the muffin batter along with this spice.
    • Amazon - Spicewalla Chai Masala - This Blend does not have any tea in it, nor does it have vanilla.  If you want a vanilla hint add some to the muffin batter along with this spice.
    • Morton & Bassett Chai Spice - most major grocery stores carry this brand.  This does not contain vanilla.  If you want a vanilla hint add some to the  batter along with this spice.



  • Do not overmix your batter - this will cause a dense tough product and no one wants that in a banana bread!  Just gently (Not vigorously ) mix until everything is just combined. A few streaks of flour is ok.  






More Banana Bread Recipes



HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.








Chai Banana Bread


yield: 1 loaf


2 eggs beaten
2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup canola oil
1/3 cup milk
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup light brown sugar
1 Tablespoon chai spice blend (I use this one)
1/3 cup chopped walnuts


Heat oven to 350 degrees F.  Spray a 9 inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

In a large bowl add the eggs and bananas, mashing and combining together.  Add in the milk and oil and stir to combine.  Add in the flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, and chai spice blend.  Mix just until combined. (Do not overmix).  Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Pour batter in the prepared pan spreading evenly.  Bake 50-60 minutes , or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when tested in the center.  (cover the top of the bread if it starts to become too brown toward the end of baking)  Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 15 minutes and then invert and remove from the pan.  Place on a wire rack to cool completely.  Slice and serve.









Saturday, July 8, 2023

Spice it Up!

Try making one or more of my spice blends to use this summer for a flavor boost in a variety of dishes!






Spice it Up!


One of the easiest ways to make food tasty is using a spice blend.  Today I'm going to give you recipes for some basic but popular spice blends along with some ideas for using them all summer long.

All you need are some basic spices and an empty jar.  Mix these together and they will last for several months in the pantry.

Enjoy!





Italian Seasoning

Combine 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper; 1 Tbsp dried thyme, crushed; 1 Tbsp dried rosemary, crushed; 1 Tbsp dried oregano, crushed; and 1 Tbsp dried basil, crushed.  Makes 1/4 cup.


Use In:



Greek Seasoning

Combine 1/2 tsp dried minced garlic; 1 tsp dried minced onion; 1 tsp dried marjoram, crushed; 1 tsp dried basil, crushed; 2 tsp dried thyme, crushed; and 1 Tbsp dried oregano, crushed.  Makes about 3 Tbsp.


Use In:

  • Grilled Chicken Souvlaki or Chicken Gyros
  • Greek Grilled Pork Chops
  • Greek Salad Dressing
  • Greek Oven Roasted Potatoes
  • Add to sour cream or yogurt with some lemon for a great dip
  • Make Greek chicken, turkey, or beef burgers






Taco Seasoning

Combine 1 Tbsp salt; 1-2 tsp onion powder; 1-2 tsp black pepper; 3-4 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano, crushed; 2 Tbsp. ground cumin, 1/2 - 1 tsp crushed red pepper; and 3-4 Tbsp chili powder.  Makes about 2/3 cup.


Use In:



Herbes de Provence

Combine 1 tsp fennel seeds, crushed; 1 tsp dried lavender, crushed; 1 tsp dried sage, crushed, 1 dried rosemary, crushed; 1 Tbsp dried marjoram, crushed; 1 tsp dried thyme, crushed; and 1 tsp dried basil, crushed.  Makes about 3 Tbsp.


Use In:

  • Sprinkle in rice
  • Grilled Chicken sprinkled with Herbes de Provence
  • Summer Ratatouille
  • Roasted Fish
  • Roasted Vegetables sprinkled with Herbes de Provence







Suggested Items




24Pcs,Glass Spices Container Set with White Printed Labels $27.97



General Storage Tips

Pour these spice blends into a small glass or plastic jars with tight-fitting lids.  Store in a cool, dark place for 6 months.  




LinkWithin

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...