OMG Creole Seasoning

For my first contribution to this post, I want to tell everyone about this new, magical, taste-world I was recently introduced to...
The world of Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning:

I'm actually pretty new to the world of spicy seasonings and foods; up until recently I was always weary of things with any heat because I'm a wimp! However, I've been trying to "train" my tastebuds to tolerate (and even enjoy!) more spicy things. I love food, and I love trying new things...I don't want my cowardly tastebuds to hold me back from experiencing new flavors.

So, I tried this creole seasoning. And I love it!

Tonight, I wanted to make something quick, easy, and tasty using this seasoning. I used some random veggies in my fridge with some chicken breast and rice, and came up with this incredibly yummy concoction:

It looks simple, but it wasn't bland or boring at all, thanks to the amazing seasoning!

I took one boneless, skinless chicken breast and added it to my cute little mini electric skillet along with some chicken broth. I also chopped up cabbage, carrots, yellow zucchini, onion, and garlic clove and added them to the skillet, along with a teaspoon of the creole seasoning. I covered it, and cooked it on medium for around 35 minutes, which was long enough to make the chicken incredibly tender and juicy, and the veggies were done but not mushy. I served it over some white rice, and it was awesome! Very filling, and for anyone interested in Weight Watchers Points, it was only 10 points for the whole bowl. (5, if you leave out the rice!)

Just for fun, here's a photo of my trusty tiny electric skillet:

It hasn't failed me yet! 

Comfort food!!!

     I totally love comfort food from my youth. May it be chili with corn bread, or even pork chops with apples. Today I made a good old stand by, chicken and dumplings!!! Now my family cheats when we make this, we use an 'all purpose baking mix'. But it turns out to be super scrumptious every time. Being super cold out during this midwest winter, this meal warms you up and brings back memories of being a child.

     Also on the quest to eat healthier for the new year, I jam-packed this dish with yummy vegetables. For those who may partake in WeightWatchers, this meal is about 10 points per half the recipe, talk about filling and satisfying!

     You can make it basically with whatever veggies you want, and I geared towards a chicken vegetable soup as a base. I also like my chicken and dumplings on the thick and hearty side, so you alter the liquid as much or as little as you like. 

Turned almost as good as moms!

Chicken and dumplings:

• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
• 3 cups cabbage
• 1 cup celery
• 1/2 cup onion
• 1 cup carrots
• 4-5 cups chicken stock, or water + chicken flavoring
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup baking mix, mixed with 1/3 cup milk or water. 

Mix everything in a pot, except the dough, and bring to a simmer. Once all veggies are done to your liking drop spoonfuls of the dough in the soup and cover. Cook for 5-10 minutes depending on size of dumplings. I generally get 6-8 medium size dumplings. Serves 2.

You can always omit certain ingredients, or add additional ones. 

Nothing like laying under a warm fluffy blanket and watching movies all day. 

ENJOY!!!

This is a test!

This is just a quick post to test out our new blog, Sinnamon Toast. The objective of this blog is to write about amazing food and beverages that Shane and Chelsea have made or eaten and want to tell you about!