Our Top Tips For That Special Meal
I decided to make you a special list for your special meal coming up!
It’s definitely not exhaustive, but, I feel like it will put you in the right direction. You’ll notice a trend, and it’s what we’re all about here on the farm…
Dark Brown Sugar when it calls for Light:
Brown sugar gets its color from the natural-occurring molasses content, so, the darker the sugar, the more molasses and FLAVOR! It is an easy swap out, as both are readily available, and it measures the same. The difference in taste is so noticeable to me that I don’t purchase anything else.
Heavy handed on the salt!
It is common practice to use unsalted butter in baked goods recipes, but, I’m here to tell you otherwise.
I always use salted butter, and I don’t omit 1/4 tsp of salt in the recipe to make up for it. The extra “saltiness” will give a more complex flavor and showcase the sweet.
Just make sure to use good quality salt, such as Morton’s REAL salt with trace minerals, Pink Himalayan, or sea salt.
And, speaking of butter and salt....
Use Real Butter, ALWAYS
It pays to dish out the extra cash for flavor and health. Mama always used oleo, Blue Bonnet, margarine, whatever...
I know, they are affordable for baking, but don’t give into the temptation for a cheaper price. And guess what? They’re not so heart-healthy like we thought years ago😉
The Mashed Potato Secret:
Yes, there’s a secret to mashed potatoes, and I’m willing to let you in on it.
The entire process of making GOOD mashed potatoes is finicky... I know because I’ve had a few oopsies before🙄
•Choose a drier potato variety over a wax one: Think russet or even golden, over a red, which tend to be waxier and don’t want to “fluff.”
•Make sure to drain off as much water as possible by letting them strain for an extra minute or two, and throw them back into the hot pot and stirring, drying them off a bit more in the process.
•Mash, mash, mash: whether you’re using a mixer or hand-masher, make sure to get your potatoes mashed to your liking BEFORE adding your butter and cream.
•Try to get your butter and cream (milk, cream cheese, sour cream) to the same temperature before adding, or at least not right out of the refrigerator.
Once you add, stir as little as possible! This will help to avoid a starchy paste, and keep your potatoes nice and fluffy!
Invest in quality seasonings:
Simply Organic, Frontier (personal favorite), I know you’ve seen the fancy little spice jars that hold the goods. It’s SO worth it to begin switching to these instead of the el cheapos in the plastic containers at discounted (but still too high) prices. If you’re going to take the time to make A DISH, then go all the way and opt for the better spices. Once you make the switch, you won’t go back! Seem a little pricey? Swap out a seasoning at a time until your new arsenal is fully stocked and prepared for your next gourmet meal! Also, consider buying in bulk by the pound from Frontier and the like.
EGGS, Eggs, eggs: Free Range, Pastured, Cage Free, my head is already spinning.
Marketers have grabbed onto the lingo and run with it, attempting to make something not-so-great sound healthy and humane. Your best bet? Shop your local farmer. Their eggs will be the best you can get on your area, HANDS DOWN. They’re local, fresh, hand collected, and the hens are loved and cared for. Don’t be afraid to ask questions too, whether it’s about pasture size, non-GMO feed, etc.
Grind that coffee, baby!
One of my favorite parts of a big meal is the end: coffee and dessert time! With my piles-high plate full of all manner of sweets, I reach for my cup of coffee with vigor... and it will hopefully be fresh!
For me, it is a sad thing to serve a great dinner with watered-down coffee at the end of it. It really takes things up a notch when you grind and brew fresh coffee beans. The smell and flavor is divine, and it makes everything else feel special- what a great way to wrap a night up. Percolating or using a French Press is 👌, but a regular ole drip can work too.
Don’t have a coffee grinder? Don’t fret, just grab your food processor or blender in a pinch!
All about that ambiance🍽
Nice dinners are a time to really break out the Good Stuff: pretty tablecloths, cotton/linen napkins, fine china. Sitting at a beautifully made up table makes all the difference, even if it’s only for a party of two. Light the tapers, throw something snazzy in the middle of the table, and take in the atmosphere.
Spending time with our loved ones, making memories and sharing history is priceless. Investing in quality and time is the ticket....
Don’t have the time or knack for making those flaky, homemade pies to go with that fresh ground coffee?
Buy them! I know where you can get one 😉