Only One Recipe

Author: John Dough

  • Sizzling Beef Stir-Fry Recipe

    Easy and Quick Beef Stir-Fry

    Beef stir-fry is a classic dish that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this sizzling beef stir-fry is the perfect choice. Packed with protein, vibrant vegetables, and a delectable sauce, it’s a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and make a regular appearance at your dinner table. Here’s how to make it in just minutes!

    Ingredients:

    • 400 grams of flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
    • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
    • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 medium onion, sliced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 thumb-sized ginger, julienned
    • 1 cup of broccoli florets
    • 1 carrot, thinly sliced into ribbons
    • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
    • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

    Directions:

    1. Start by preparing the beef: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch until well coated. This helps to thicken the sauce later and keeps the beef tender when cooked.
    2. In a large wok or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing quickly until browned, but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside on a plate.
    3. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Then add the onion, bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
    4. Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir everything together and cook for another couple of minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
    5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the stir-fry seems too dry, you can add a little water to help create more sauce.
    6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

    Serve this flavorful beef stir-fry over a bed of steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade takeout-style dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy!

    Tips:

    • Feel free to use any type of vegetables you like or have on hand. Snow peas, baby corn, and mushrooms are also great additions to a stir-fry.
    • For best results, use a cast-iron skillet or a wok for even heat distribution and the perfect sear on the beef.
    • Make sure all the ingredients are prepped before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a quick process.
    • If you like a bit of heat, you can add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stir-fry.

  • Classic American Hot Dog: A Quick and Easy Guide

    Classic American Hot Dog: A Quick and Easy Guide

    Hot dogs: an iconic fast food favorite that’s synonymous with American culture, summer barbecues, and baseball games. Making a classic American hot dog is not just about cooking the sausage; it’s an art of balancing flavors and textures that can turn this simple dish into a gourmet experience. This guide will walk you through the steps to make the perfect hot dog in mere minutes.

    Ingredients

    • 4 quality beef or beef blend hot dogs
    • 4 hot dog buns
    • Yellow mustard
    • Ketchup (optional)
    • Relish or sauerkraut
    • Freshly chopped onions
    • Optional toppings: cheese, jalapeños, chili, coleslaw

    Instructions

    1. Bring a pot of water to a low boil. Alternatively, you can grill the hot dogs for a smokier flavor. If you’re boiling them, make sure not to overboil as this can cause the hot dogs to split and lose their juiciness.
    2. Place your hot dogs in the pot or on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes if boiling, or until they are nicely charred if grilling.
    3. While the hot dogs are cooking, prepare your buns. You can steam them for a softer texture or toast them for added crispness. To steam, place the buns over a pot of boiling water for about 30 seconds. For toasting, place them on the grill for a minute or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until slightly crispy.
    4. Once the hot dogs are cooked, place each one into a bun.
    5. Now comes the fun part: dressing your hot dog. A traditional American hot dog is typically topped with a line of yellow mustard, a squiggle of ketchup (if desired), a spoonful of relish or sauerkraut, and a sprinkling of fresh onions. But feel free to get creative with your toppings!
    6. Optional: If you enjoy your hot dog with a bit more heat or texture, consider adding additional toppings like shredded cheese, pickled jalapeños, homemade chili, or even a scoop of coleslaw to make a Carolina-style dog.

    And there you have it, your classic American hot dog! Serve immediately and enjoy the flavors of a timeless treat that’s straightforward but always satisfying.

    Serving Suggestions

    Pair your hot dogs with sides such as potato chips, french fries, or a simple coleslaw. Don’t forget to add a cold beverage like a soda, beer, or iced tea to round out your meal. For an outdoor gathering, consider setting up a hot dog bar with various toppings and sauces so everyone can create their perfect hot dog masterpiece.

    Hot Dog Fun Facts

    As you savor your classic American hot dog, enjoy these bite-sized bits of trivia:

    • The term ‘hot dog’ is believed to originate from the 19th century, when German immigrants sold them from push carts in New York City.
    • The world’s longest hot dog created was 218.72 meters (718 feet and 3.3 inches), crafted in Paraguay in 2011.
    • The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, a world-famous competitive eating competition, takes place every Fourth of July in Coney Island, New York.

    Whether it’s a quick lunch, a ballgame snack, or part of your backyard feast, the classic American hot dog is a simple yet delightful dish that brings joy to both the young and the young at heart.

    © 2023 Recipe Guru

  • Savor the Simplicity: Margherita Quinoa Bowl Recipe

    Margherita Quinoa Bowl

    If you’re craving a simple yet delicious meal that’s both nutritious and easy to make, our Margherita Quinoa Bowl is the perfect choice. This dish pays homage to the classic Margherita pizza flavors while providing a wholesome twist with quinoa as its base.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
    • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), cut into halves
    • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can taste bitter. Drain well.
    2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
    3. While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, and cook until they are soft and begin to release their juices, approximately 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
    4. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and divide it among serving bowls.
    5. Top each bowl of quinoa with the sautéed cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella halves, and chopped basil leaves. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
    6. If you’re in the mood for a little extra flavor, drizzle balsamic glaze over each bowl before serving.

    This Margherita Quinoa Bowl is ideal for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even as a side dish. The combination of warm quinoa, melty mozzarella, and fresh tomatoes and basil makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.

    Nutritional Information:

    This meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Quinoa is a great source of protein and fiber, while tomatoes provide vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. The mozzarella offers calcium and protein, making this a balanced meal for any day of the week.

  • Savory Chicken and Mushroom Pot Pie

    If you’re in the mood for a hearty and comforting meal, there’s nothing quite like a homemade Chicken and Mushroom Pot Pie. It’s a perfect dish to warm you up from the inside out – whether it’s a chilly winter day or a cool summer evening. This classic pot pie combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy filling, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. Let’s get started on creating this delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp black pepper
    • 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
    • 1/2 cup milk
    • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
    • 1 package (about 14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts, softened as per package instructions
    • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
    2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chicken pieces until they are no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil, then sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic until the onion is translucent and the mushrooms have browned.
    4. Sprinkle in the flour, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine, cooking for 1 minute.
    5. Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until it thickens into a gravy, stirring frequently.
    6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the frozen peas and carrots and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
    7. Unroll one pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken and mushroom filling into the crust.
    8. Place the second pie crust over the filling. Trim, seal, and crimp the edges to make a decorative pattern.
    9. Make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
    10. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
    11. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
    12. Let the pot pie cool for 10 minutes before serving.

    Your Chicken and Mushroom Pot Pie is now ready to enjoy! This dish is perfect for a family dinner and can easily become a go-to comfort meal. Pair it with a crisp, green salad or simply enjoy it on its own. The creamy filling and flaky crust are sure to satiate your cravings for something savory and fulfilling.

    Note: You can customize this pot pie by adding other vegetables you may have on hand, such as diced potatoes or celery. Don’t shy away from adding a touch of your favorite herbs to personalize the flavor to your palate. Happy cooking!

  • Chicken Caesar Zoodle Casserole

    Ingredients

    • 2 large zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)
    • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
    • 1 cup Caesar dressing, preferably low-fat
    • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
    • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Non-stick cooking spray

    Instructions

    1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Prepare the zoodles using a spiralizer and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture, then gently squeeze the zoodles to remove additional water.
    3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, red onion, and half of the chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    4. Add the zoodles into the chicken mixture and toss until they are well coated.
    5. Lightly spray a casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the zoodle and chicken mixture into the dish.
    6. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish and top with cherry tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese.
    7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
    8. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with the remaining chopped parsley.
    9. Serve warm and enjoy this guilt-free twist on a classic indulgence.

    Nutrition Tips

    By swapping traditional pasta for zucchini noodles, you substantially cut down on calories and carbs, making this casserole a more nutritious option. Additionally, opting for low-fat Caesar dressing can help reduce your intake of unnecessary fats.

    Cooking Tips

    To avoid a watery casserole, it’s crucial to draw out as much moisture as possible from the zoodles before baking. Letting the salted zoodles sit and then squeezing them ensures a better texture in your final dish.

    This delicious Chicken Caesar Zoodle Casserole is a great way to indulge in the rich flavors of a Caesar salad with the comforting warmth of a casserole, all while keeping it light and healthy. Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner for the whole family.

  • Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup

  • Delicious Belizean Garnaches: A Quick and Easy Recipe

    Delicious Belizean Garnaches: A Quick and Easy Recipe

    Garnaches are a popular street food found in Belize, known for their delightful crunch and flavorful toppings. They consist of fried corn tortillas topped with a combination of refried beans, shredded cheese, diced onions, and a zesty cabbage slaw, all flavored with vibrant Belizean spices. This recipe guide will walk you through creating your own Garnaches at home in just a few simple steps.

    Ingredients

    • 8 corn tortillas
    • 1 cup refried beans, warmed
    • 1 cup shredded cheese (preferably a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
    • 1 small onion, diced finely
    • 2 cups shredded cabbage
    • 1 medium tomato, diced (optional)
    • 1/4 cup vinegar
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp black pepper
    • Vegetable oil for frying

    Instructions

    1. Begin by preparing the cabbage slaw. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes (if using), vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside to marinate.
    2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be about half an inch deep, enough to cover the tortillas.
    3. Once the oil is hot, fry the corn tortillas one at a time until they are crisp and lightly golden brown on both sides. Use tongs to remove the tortillas and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
    4. On each fried tortilla, spread a generous layer of warm refried beans, followed by a sprinkle of diced onions.
    5. Top the beans and onions with a good amount of shredded cheese. The warmth of the beans and tortillas will help melt the cheese slightly.
    6. Finish off by adding a heaping tablespoon of the cabbage slaw on top of the cheese.
    7. Serve your Garnaches immediately while they are still warm and crispy for the best experience.

    Additional Tips

    • For an authentic Belizean flavor, consider adding a few drops of habanero pepper sauce on top of the Garnaches before serving.
    • If you prefer, you can add other toppings such as shredded chicken or pulled pork for a more filling snack.
    • The cabbage slaw can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together even more.

    With these simple instructions, you can bring a taste of Belizean cuisine into your kitchen. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or a light meal, Garnaches are a versatile and delicious treat that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy your homemade Belizean Garnaches!

  • Authentic Yemeni Mandi Recipe

    Authentic Yemeni Mandi Recipe

    Welcome to a culinary journey to the heart of Yemen with this traditional Mandi recipe. Yemeni Mandi is a beloved dish known for its unique blend of spices, tender meat, and fragrant rice, all smoked to perfection. Let’s explore the rich flavors of this Middle Eastern gem.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 kg of lamb or chicken, cut into large pieces
    • 4 cups of basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
    • 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
    • 4 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1/4 cup of oil
    • 2 bay leaves
    • 4 cardamom pods
    • 2 cinnamon sticks
    • ½ teaspoon of black peppercorns
    • 1 whole nutmeg, crushed
    • Salt to taste
    • Pinch of saffron strands, soaked in warm water
    • Chopped cilantro and fried onions for garnish
    • Aluminum foil to create smoke effect
    • Charcoal (optional for smoking)

    Marinade:

    • 1 cup of plain yogurt
    • 1 tablespoon of mandi spice mix
    • Juice of 1 lemon
    • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
    • Salt to taste

    Instructions:

    1. In a bowl, combine the ingredients for the marinade. Add the meat pieces and coat them well. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
    2. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
    3. In a large cooking pot, heat the oil and sauté the onions and garlic until golden brown.
    4. Drain the rice and add it to the pot with the onions, stirring for a few minutes to toast the rice.
    5. Add water (about 6 cups), bay leaves, cardamom, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the rice is halfway done (about 10-15 minutes).
    6. Place the marinated meat on a wire rack above the rice or in a separate baking dish.
    7. Place the pot with the rice (or rice and meat if using one pot) in the oven and cook for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and fully cooked.
    8. In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the saffron water to the rice for color and fragrance.
    9. If you want to add a smoky flavor, heat a piece of charcoal until red-hot, place it in a small metal bowl, and add a teaspoon of oil. Immediately place the bowl in the center of the rice and cover the pot to allow the smoke to infuse the rice and meat for about 10 minutes.
    10. Remove the rice and meat from the oven and let it rest covered for about 10 minutes before serving.
    11. Garnish the rice with chopped cilantro and fried onions. Serve the meat on the side or atop the rice.

    Tips:

    For a more authentic Mandi spice mix, combine equal parts of cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, blended into a fine powder.

    You can use a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly and retains the smoky flavor.

    Enjoy this Yemeni Mandi with side dishes such as cucumber-yogurt salad or a simple Arabic tomato sauce.

  • Classic Canadian Caesar Cocktail

    Nothing quite says Canadian brunch like a well-mixed Caesar cocktail. This savory drink, a cousin to the Bloody Mary, is a staple in bars and homes across Canada. With its unique blend of clamato juice, vodka, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and spices, this cocktail is renowned for its complex flavor profile and its ability to cure even the most persistent hangover. So let’s dive into the steps to create your very own perfect Canadian Caesar.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 oz vodka
    • 4 oz Clamato juice
    • 2 dashes hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
    • 4 dashes Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/2 tsp freshly grated horseradish (optional)
    • Celery salt
    • Freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 lime wedge
    • 1 celery stalk
    • 1 pickled bean (optional)
    • 1 strip of crispy bacon (optional)
    • Ice cubes

    Instructions:

    1. Rim a tall glass with lime and dip into celery salt to coat the edge.
    2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
    3. Over the ice, pour the vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
    4. If using, add freshly grated horseradish.
    5. Stir well to mix all of the ingredients together.
    6. Season with a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
    7. Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of the glass.
    8. For a classic Canadian touch, add a celery stalk, a pickled bean, and/or a strip of crispy bacon to the glass.
    9. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing and savory Canadian Caesar cocktail!

    Tips & Variations:

    • To spice things up, increase the amount of hot sauce to your liking or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
    • You can swap vodka for gin or tequila if you prefer a different base spirit.
    • For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the vodka and enjoy a Virgin Caesar.
    • Experiment with garnishes like olives, pickled onions, or a skewer of cocktail shrimp to make it a snack in itself.

    This cocktail is perfect for brunch, holidays, or just a cozy weekend at home. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll become a pro at making this iconic Canadian cocktail. So next time you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a classic Canadian drink, mix up a Caesar and savor the flavor.

  • Chicken Alfredo Lasagna – A Creamy Twist on a Classic Dish

    Chicken Alfredo Lasagna – A Creamy Twist on a Classic Dish

    If you’re a fan of both Chicken Alfredo and lasagna, then this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna recipe is a dream come true! This dish layers creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and lasagna noodles for a rich and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion.

    Ingredients:

    • 9 lasagna noodles
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 2 cups of Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
    • 15 oz ricotta cheese
    • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

    Instructions:

    1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
    2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chopped chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden and no longer pink in the middle. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
    3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
    4. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
    5. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce.
    6. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, add half of the cooked chicken, and then sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella cheese.
    7. Drizzle with a generous amount of Alfredo sauce, and repeat the layers once more, starting with noodles.
    8. Cover the second layer of Alfredo sauce with the final 3 noodles and the remaining Alfredo sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
    9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
    10. Before serving, let the lasagna stand for about 10 minutes. Then, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

    Whether it’s a special family dinner or you’re hosting guests, this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is sure to impress with its indulgent flavors and comforting warmth. Enjoy!