by Kat | Jan 1, 2011 | General
Happy New Year, Gentle Reader!
I hope that 2011 eased in gently and that you are all feeling no ill effects from your festivities!
I had a quiet evening and was in bed long before the ball dropped. Such a wild life I lead here at Casa del KatKnits.
For years, I have wanted to make a “traditional” New Year’s Day meal, but that plan has never come to fruition, until this year.
It was worth the wait, and it will not be long before I make this again! It is hearty and delicious!
Black- eyed Peas with Ham
• 1 – 1 lb package of dried Black-eyed peas
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• About 2 C ham, cut up
• 1/2 large sweet onion, diced
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Approximately 1 tsp red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
• 1 small can of tomato paste
You can soak the peas overnight in cold water, or you can put them in a pot, cover them with about 6-8 C water, bring to a boil and continue boiling for 2 minutes. Then remove from the heat, cover, and let them sit for an hour. With either preparation, drain the water, and rinse the peas well.
In the same pot – heat the olive oil. When hot, add the onions and sauté until they begin to turn translucent. Add the garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the ham and the peas. Add the Chicken broth, tomato paste, and enough water to cover completely. Stir to incorporate the tomato paste into the mixture.
Let simmer of low heat 2 and a half to 3 hours, until the peas are tender.
I served mine with wilted Swiss chard on top.
Mmm, mmm, good!
It might just be the perfect comfort food for New Years Day – especially since a bit of comfort was in order due to the trouncing, the U of M got at the Gator Bowl!
by Kat | Dec 19, 2010 | General
I cannot believe that Christmas will be here in less than one week. I have been in desperate need of a little Christmas – or at least one of Santa’s elves to make an appearance in my home, and work a bit of Christmas Magic! Alas, no elves have appeared but last weekend Sam did go with me to get a tree.
Slowly, over the week, I placed ornaments on the tree. However, trimming a tree sans little children is just not quite the same.
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by Kat | Sep 18, 2010 | General
Too bad this picture cannot convey the volume of purring that is emanating from this little kitten.
Because, trust me… it is loud!
Meet the newest member of Casa del KatKnits…
Evinrude.
As for Milli Vanilli… the jury is still out on whether or not she likes him, but there was an eye witness to some mutual playing earlier today between the two of them.
I am thinking that with a purr this loud he is sure to win her over, and soon.
by Kat | Sep 11, 2010 | General, Words
This was the evening sky when I got home from work last night. The days are definitely growing shorter and the nights cooler.
Autumn, it seems, is soon to be here.
Today marks the 9th Anniversary of the Day the Terrorists Made an Impact on the United States. We grew up quickly and joined our neighbors in the world with a first hand understanding of just how painful this lesson was.
The weather here today seemed to be in mourning and somber as well; it was dreary, raining, and somber all day.
The one good thing about being American is that no matter what our political differences are – today we stand united in remembrance of those who lost a loved one, no matter what creed, color, religion, or nationality. It is a sentiment we should embrace all year, not just today.
We all would be better people if we were more tolerant of those who are different than we are.
Here is hoping you all spent some time reflecting today.
by Kat | Jul 30, 2010 | General
It is kind of nice when the reflecting rays illuminate the mendacity of life. I just love when my housekeeping skills are so brilliantly showcased!
Here is to a great weekend with perhaps a splash of cleaning on top!
