Only One Recipe

Author: John Dough

  • Classic BLT Sandwich Recipe

    Classic BLT Sandwich Recipe

    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 15 minutes
    Serves: 1

    Sink your teeth into the classic combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato with this easy-to-follow BLT sandwich recipe that’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!

    Ingredients

    • 3-4 strips of thick-cut bacon
    • 2 slices of white or whole grain bread
    • 2-3 ripe tomato slices
    • Green leaf lettuce or romaine lettuce
    • Mayonnaise
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

    Instructions

    1. Place the bacon strips in a cold non-stick skillet and then turn the heat to medium-high. Cook the bacon to your desired level of crispiness, flipping it occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
    2. While the bacon is cooking, toast the bread slices to your preference. Toasting the bread adds texture and prevents it from becoming soggy from the tomato’s moisture.
    3. Spread a generous amount of mayonnaise on one side of each toasted bread slice. The mayonnaise is key to a flavorful BLT.
    4. On one slice of bread, place a layer of lettuce leaves. The lettuce not only adds a fresh crunch but also serves as a barrier to keep the bread from getting soggy.
    5. Add the tomato slices on top of the lettuce, and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will enhance the tomato flavor.
    6. Place the cooked bacon strips on top of the tomato slices. You can break the bacon strips in half if they’re too long for the bread.
    7. Close the sandwich with the other slice of bread, mayonnaise side down. Press lightly to ensure everything stays in place.
    8. Cut the sandwich in half, diagonally or straight across, according to your preference.
    9. Serve immediately while the bacon is still warm and crispy for the best BLT experience!

    Tips and Variations

    • If you love avocado, try adding a few slices for a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats. This variation is sometimes called a ‘BLAT’.
    • For a healthier version, opt for turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives and use whole grain bread.
    • Consider adding a fried egg on top for a hearty

  • Chicken Pesto Zoodle Salad – A Fresh and Healthy Twist

    Ingredients:

    • 2 medium-sized zucchinis
    • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
    • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/4 cup pesto sauce, homemade or store-bought
    • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
    • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Prepare the zoodles: Wash and trim the ends off your zucchinis. Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchini into noodles, aka ‘zoodles’. If you do not have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips.
    2. Drain zoodles: Lay out the zoodles on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for a few minutes to release excess moisture. Gently pat them dry to avoid soggy salad.
    3. Cook zoodles (optional): If you prefer your zoodles to be slightly cooked, you can sauté them in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
    4. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the zoodles, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and pesto sauce. Toss everything together until the zoodles are well coated with the pesto.
    5. Add toppings: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
    6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving for a refreshing meal.

    Cook’s Notes:

    For a healthier version, you can opt for a lighter pesto sauce or make your own using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Additionally, grilling the chicken adds a nice smoky flavor to the salad. This dish is versatile, and you can add your choice of veggies, nuts, or cheese to customize it to your taste.

  • Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry: A Fast & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

    Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

    If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option, look no further than this chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe! It’s packed with flavor, nutritious, and comes together in just a few minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
    • 2 cups broccoli florets
    • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 onion, sliced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
    • 3 tbsp soy sauce
    • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
    • 1 tbsp cornstarch
    • 1/2 cup chicken broth
    • 1 tsp sugar
    • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
    • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
    • Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

    Instructions:

    1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, chicken broth, sugar, and pepper to create the stir-fry sauce. Set aside.
    2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and stir-fry until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
    3. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli, red bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
    4. Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
    5. Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the mixture and toss everything to coat well and heat through.
    6. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
    7. Enjoy your chicken and broccoli stir-fry with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

    Cook’s Notes:

    • For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in a mixture of soy sauce and a teaspoon of cornstarch for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
    • Feel free to add more veggies like snap peas, carrots, or baby corn to boost the nutritional content.
    • Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more broth or cornstarch, depending on your preference.

    With its combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce, this chicken and broccoli stir-fry will satisfy your cravings for takeout while keeping things healthy. Happy cooking!

  • Fluffy & Delicious Omelette: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Introduction

    There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a perfectly cooked omelette. Not only is it rich in protein, but it’s also a versatile dish that can be filled with your choice of ingredients. This quick guide will walk you through the steps to create a fluffy and delicious omelette, as well as some tips to personalize it to your taste.

    Ingredients

    • 3 large eggs
    • 1 tbsp milk or water
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tbsp unsalted butter or oil
    • Your choice of fillings (e.g., cheese, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, ham, or herbs)

    Instructions

    1. Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl, add the milk or water, salt, and pepper, and beat well until the mixture is completely blended and slightly frothy.
    2. Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
    3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, swirling it around to cover the entire surface.
    4. As the eggs begin to set, gently pull the edges toward the center with a spatula, allowing the uncooked eggs to flow to the edges.
    5. When the omelette is mostly set but still slightly runny on top, add your chosen fillings to one side of the omelette.
    6. Carefully fold the other side over the fillings and let it cook for another minute to ensure the fillings are heated through and the cheese (if used) is melted.
    7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve immediately.

    Tips and Variations

    • For a lighter omelette, try using just egg whites.
    • Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a burst of flavor.
    • Sautéing your vegetables before adding them to the omelette will give extra flavor and remove excess moisture.
    • If you want a cheesy omelette, add a good melting cheese like cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère.
    • Experiment with different meats like bacon, sausage, or smoked salmon.
    • For a touch of heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce does wonders.

    Conclusion

    With these simple steps, you can enjoy a gourmet-quality omelette from the comfort of your home. Feel free to get creative with your fillings and cooking methods – after all, the best omelette is the one that’s made just to your liking.

  • Homemade Canadian Ketchup Chips

    Appealing to both snack enthusiasts and chip aficionados, Canadian ketchup chips are a beloved staple that, curiously, is often difficult to find outside of Canada. Slightly sweet, undeniably tangy, and with just the right amount of savory depth, this chip flavor has won hearts across the nation. But you don’t have to cross the border to indulge in this quintessential Canadian snack. With this guide, you’ll learn how to make your very own ketchup chips at home, with a seasoning so spot-on, you’ll swear they came straight from the snack aisle!

    Ingredients:

    • 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
    • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
    • 2 tbsp tomato powder
    • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
    • 1 tsp onion powder
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
    • 1/4 tsp dried mustard
    • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
    • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
    • Salt to taste
    • Vinegar powder or citric acid powder to taste (for tanginess)

    Instructions:

    1. Begin by cleaning your russet potatoes and slicing them very thinly, preferably with a mandoline slicer for consistency. The thinner they are, the crispier they will become when fried.
    2. Soak the potato slices in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve that coveted crispy texture.
    3. While your potatoes are soaking, heat your oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). The oil should be deep enough to allow the chips to float freely.
    4. Mix together the seasoning blend: combine tomato powder, sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried mustard, allspice, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
    5. Once the potatoes have finished soaking, pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Water on the potatoes will cause the oil to pop, so they need to be as dry as possible.
    6. Working in batches, fry the potato slices until they are golden brown and crispy. This typically takes 2-3 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chips from the oil, and transfer them to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.
    7. While the chips are still warm, sprinkle them with the homemade ketchup seasoning mix. Add the seasoning slowly, tossing the chips to ensure they are evenly coated. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your preference for flavor intensity.
    8. For added tanginess, lightly dust the freshly seasoned chips with vinegar powder or citric acid powder. This optional step will provide that familiar zesty ketchup chip kick.
    9. Allow the chips to cool completely before serving, as this will help them crisp up even more.
    10. Store any leftover ketchup chips in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness and enjoy your homemade Canadian snack!

    Following this easy recipe, you can relish the unique taste of Canadian ketchup chips without ever leaving your home. Whether you’re longing for a taste of Canada or simply in the mood for a tangy snack, these homemade ketchup chips are sure to satisfy.

  • Chicken Alfredo Zoodle Casserole

    Introduction

    Indulge in a low-carb spin on a creamy classic with our Chicken Alfredo Zoodle Casserole. This dish replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, also known as ‘zoodles,’ making it a healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Topped with juicy grilled chicken and smothered in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, this casserole is both comforting and nutritious.

    Ingredients

    • 3 large zucchini, spiralized into noodles
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
    • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Set aside.
    2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then dice into bite-sized pieces.
    3. Using the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg. Whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
    4. Place the spiralized zucchini noodles into the prepared baking dish. Top with the diced chicken and pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the top.
    5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
    6. Remove from oven and let the casserole sit for a couple of minutes to settle. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
    7. Serve warm and enjoy your delectable, low-carb Chicken Alfredo Zoodle Casserole!

    Nutritional Information

    Please note that the nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This dish is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. For the most accurate information, calculate the nutritional values based on the exact products you use.

    Conclusion

    With the perfect balance of healthy ingredients and comforting flavors, this Chicken Alfredo Zoodle Casserole is a dish everyone can enjoy, regardless of diet preferences. It’s an easy-to-make, delicious dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste for healthfulness. Give it a try tonight for a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling pleased and guilt-free!

  • Vatican City State Torta Ricotta e Pera

    Introduction

    Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the Vatican City State with a slice of Torta Ricotta e Pera, an Italian-inspired dessert that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the sweet and delicate flavour of pears. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a gathering with friends or a quiet afternoon treat.

    Ingredients

    • 200g all-purpose flour
    • 100g granulated sugar
    • 200g ricotta cheese
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • Pinch of salt
    • 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
    • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs and sugar. Beat until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
    3. Mix in the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
    4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
    5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
    6. Carefully fold in the diced pears, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
    7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
    8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
    9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
    10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

    Serving Suggestions

    Serve a slice of Torta Ricotta e Pera with a sprig of fresh mint or alongside a scoop of vanilla gelato for an extra layer of indulgence. A drizzle of honey or caramel sauce also pairs wonderfully with the light sweetness of the pears.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re taking a moment to savor the flavors of Vatican City State or simply looking for a unique dessert to impress your guests, this Torta Ricotta e Pera is a divine choice. The creamy ricotta, combined with the sweet pears, creates a cake that is both comforting and elegant—a perfect reflection of the serene beauty of Vatican culinary tradition.

  • Homemade Ukrainian Varenyky

    Introduction to Ukrainian Varenyky

    Ukrainian Varenyky, also known as pierogi in some cultures, are a beloved traditional Eastern European dish. These delightful dumplings are stuffed with a variety of fillings, ranging from savory to sweet, and are a staple comfort food in Ukrainian households. In this recipe, we will focus on the most classic version, potato-cheese filled Varenyky, which are both satisfying and delicious. Get ready to dive into the heart of Ukrainian culinary tradition with this easy-to-follow recipe.

    Ingredients

    • For the dough:
    • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 cup sour cream
    • Water as needed
    • For the filling:
    • 5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
    • 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 2 tablespoons butter

    Note: This recipe makes approximately 40 Varenyky.

    Instructions

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and sour cream. Mix until a dough begins to form. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, as needed, to bring the dough together into a smooth, pliable ball that’s not sticky. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes.
    2. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and makes it easier to roll out.
    3. Boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them. In a separate pan, sauté the finely chopped onion in butter until translucent and fragrant. Add the sautéed onions and grated cheese to the mashed potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and mix well to combine. This is your filling.
    4. On a floured surface, roll out the rested dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough approximately 3 inches in diameter.
    5. Place a spoonful of the potato-cheese filling into the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges firmly to seal, ensuring there are no air pockets.
    6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop in the Varenyky in batches, ensuring they don’t stick together. Once they float to the top, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
    7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the Varenyky from the water, and drain them well. Optionally, you can pan-fry them in a bit of butter until lightly golden on both sides for added texture and flavor.
    8. Serve the Varenyky hot with sour cream or a dollop of butter, and garnish with additional sautéed onions or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your homemade Ukrainian Varenyky with family and friends!

    Tips & Variations

    Varenyky Fillings: While potato-cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with other fillings such as sauerkraut, minced meat, or even sweet versions with cherries or sweetened farmer’s cheese.

    Storing: Uncooked Varenyky can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for later use. Boil from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly.

    Serving: For a festive twist, serve your Varenyky with a drizzle of caramelized onions and a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits.

    Whether you’re celebrating a Ukrainian holiday, exploring new cuisines, or simply in the mood for something hearty and comforting, these Varenyky will surely hit the spot. Happy cooking!

  • Classic Margherita Pizza

    Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (includes dough rising time)

    Prep Time: 15 minutes

    Cook Time: 10-15 minutes

    Ingredients

    • 300 grams (2 cups) ’00’ flour or all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup warm water
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
    • 200 grams (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, sliced or grated
    • 1 can (14 oz) whole peeled tomatoes, hand-crushed or blended
    • Fresh basil leaves
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Dough Instructions

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Stir in warm water and olive oil until a dough starts to form.
    2. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
    3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise until doubled, about 1-2 hours.
    4. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two balls for two pizzas.
    5. Let the dough balls rest for another 20 minutes under the kitchen towel.

    Pizza Assembly

    1. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (usually 475-500°F or 245-260°C) and place a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet in the oven to heat.
    2. On a floured surface, stretch out one dough ball into a 10-12 inch round base.
    3. Carefully transfer the stretched dough onto a piece of parchment paper.
    4. Spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
    5. Scatter mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes.
    6. Garnish with a few basil leaves, and drizzle a little olive oil over the top.
    7. Season with salt and pepper.
    8. Using a pizza peel or another inverted baking sheet, slide the pizza with the parchment paper onto the preheated stone or baking sheet in the oven.
    9. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
    10. Remove from the oven, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.

    Enjoy your homemade classic Margherita pizza with its perfectly crispy crust, melty cheese, and fresh tomato and basil flavours. Pair with a green salad or your favourite side for a complete meal.

  • Perfect Roast Thanksgiving Turkey

    Perfect Roast Thanksgiving Turkey

    Preparation Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes | Serves: 10-12 people

    Thanksgiving is not complete without a beautifully roasted turkey taking center stage on your dining table. This guide will walk you through the process of cooking a perfect Thanksgiving turkey that’s both juicy and full of flavor.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 whole turkey (approximately 12-14 pounds), thawed
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
    • 2 teaspoons salt
    • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 2 cups of chicken or turkey stock
    • 1 onion, quartered
    • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
    • 1 bunch fresh thyme
    • 1 bunch fresh rosemary
    • 1 bunch fresh sage

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Adjust the oven rack to the lower third position.
    2. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
    3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to make a compound butter.
    4. Loosen the skin on the turkey breast and rub a generous amount of the compound butter under the skin and all over the outside of the turkey.
    5. Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, and half of the fresh herbs.
    6. Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken or turkey stock into the bottom of the pan.
    7. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wingtips under the body of the turkey.
    8. Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, being careful not to touch the bone.
    9. Rub the entire turkey with the remaining compound butter, then squeeze the lemon juice over the turkey.
    10. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven. Baste every 30 minutes with the pan juices. If the turkey starts to overbrown, tent it with aluminum foil.
    11. Cook until the meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and thigh, about 3 hours for a 12 to 14-pound turkey.
    12. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist turkey.
    13. Carve the turkey and serve it on a platter garnished with the remaining fresh herbs.

    Extra Tips:

    • To keep the breast meat moist, consider placing a foil shield over it for the first 1-2 hours of roasting, then removing it to allow the skin to brown.
    • If using a frozen turkey, ensure it is fully thawed in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before preparing to roast.
    • Save the turkey drippings to make a delicious gravy to accompany your roast turkey.

    Enjoy your Thanksgiving with the ultimate centerpiece – a turkey that’s guaranteed to impress your guests and make your celebration a memorable one!