Category: Tips and Tricks

  • Things to Make With Leftover Brisket

    Do you have leftover brisket and not sure what to make with it? Here are ideas for things to make with leftover brisket.

    Things to Make With Leftover Brisket

    Things to Make With Leftover Brisket

    If you have some leftover brisket sitting in the fridge from the night before, you are in luck because there are a lot of delicious things to make with your leftovers!

    Actually, many people enjoy making brisket the night before so they can let the flavor soak into the meat. This is because like many other meals, it’s good when it is done, but can be even more delicious the next day.

    Things to Make With Leftover Turkey

    If you are looking for recipes and ideas on what to do with that leftover brisket sitting in the refrigerator, these recipes are easy and tasty.

    Leftover brisket is great for making sandwiches, tacos, and other dishes. Just get creative and enjoy! Keep reading for leftover brisket recipes below.

    You may even want to make extra brisket so you can enjoy the leftover for the next few days with these recipes!

    How long is leftover brisket good for?

    Leftover brisket is good for up to four days in the fridge. After that, it should be frozen for longer-term storage.

    Can I freeze leftover brisket?

    Leftover brisket is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without having to cook from scratch. And if you have some leftover brisket, you may be wondering if you can freeze it for later.

    The answer is yes! You can freeze leftover brisket and enjoy it at a later time. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging and label it with the date so you know when it was frozen.

    When you’re ready to eat the brisket, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it according to your preferred method.

    Can leftover brisket be reheated?

    Leftover brisket can be reheated in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave. When reheating, make sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain to avoid tough chunks.

    What to serve with brisket

    There are many things that go great with brisket. Here is a list of some of our favorites:

    Potatoes

    Roasted, mashed, or even in a salad, potatoes are a classic side dish that complement brisket perfectly.

    Traditional Potato Salad

    Vegetables

    Green beans, carrots, and corn all pair nicely with brisket.

    Sheet Pan Garlic Potatoes and Green Beans

    Bread

    Whether you’re serving it on a sandwich or as a side, bread is always a good idea with brisket.

    Fruit

    Applesauce or a fruit salad are both excellent choices to serve alongside brisket.

    Dessert

    Because brisket is such a hearty dish, something light for dessert is always welcome. Try a fruit pie or an airy cake.

    Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

    Things to Make With Leftover Brisket

    Smoked Brisket Nachos

    Turn your leftovers into a whole other meal or appetizer with these delicious smoked brisket nachos.

    Leftover Brisket BBQ Pizza

    Create a delicious pizza that even the kids will enjoy! Easy and tasty, this BBQ pizza is a must try.

    Easy Beef Hash

    Use leftover brisket to make your own beef hash recipe for an easy and delicious weeknight dinner idea.

    Brisket Sliders

    Add a unique flavor to these sliders by using brisket to make a delicious party appetizer or weeknight dinner.

    Smoked Brisket Chili

    Those beef brisket leftovers sitting in the fridge will be the perfect addition to your chili when you make this smoked brisket chili.

    Texas Twinkies

    These Texas Twinkies are jalapeno poppers that have a BBQ twist. They are easy to make and delicious.

    Smoked Queso Dip

    Delicious and easy to make, this smoked queso dip uses brisket and is served with your favorite Tostito scoops.

    Brisket Nachos with Southwest Seasoning

    Add a little kick to your brisket nachos with some southwest seasoning. These are sure to be a hit with everyone!

    Brisket Grilled Cheese

    What is better than a cheesy filling with toasted bread? Adding a bit of brisket to it of course! This brisket grilled cheese sandwich is sure to tingle your taste buds.

    Guinness Brisket Baked Beans

    Change up your baked bean routine with this delicious Guinness brisket baked bean recipe that you are sure to love.

    Brisket Tacos

    Brisket, just like ground beef or chicken, can be used to make tacos. These brisket tacos use leftover meat for a quick and easy dinner.

    Hawaiian Roll Brisket Sliders

    Flavored with a bit of onion and garlic, these brisket sliders are served on Hawaiian rolls for a delicious snack, appetizer, or dinner idea.

    Brisket Sopes

    These Mexican Sopes are made with brisket for a delicious and easy Mexican dish everyone is sure to love.

    Bacon and Brisket Poppers

    If you love jalapeno poppers, you are going to love these delicious bacon and brisket poppers.

    Cast Iron Nachos

    What sets these brisket nachos apart from the others is that they are made in a cast iron skillet for even more flavor

  • Things to Make With Leftover Turkey

    Are you trying to figure out what to do with all of the turkey left from Thanksgiving? Read my list of things to make with leftover turkey!

    Things to Make With Leftover Turkey

    Most families have tons of leftovers from Thanksgiving dinner. What are unique ways to use some of the your turkey leftovers?

    Millions of families in the U.S. will be enjoying their turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes and more this year at Thanksgiving.

    Things to Make With Leftover Brisket

    However by then end of the week, you may be desperately trying to figure out what to do with your leftover turkey so that you don’t have to throw it all out. Here are some tips.

    Things to Make With Leftover Turkey

    Gourmet-Style Sandwich

    One fun way to use leftover turkey is to pile up some of your dinner foods into a gourmet-style sandwich.

    Place some white or dark meat and dressing on some whole grain bread. Spread a layer of cranberry sauce on another other slice of bread and you have a tasty and easy way to enjoy your leftover turkey.

    This is a great way to use up leftovers for lunches for the kids or a even a quick dinner when no one has time to cook.

    Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken in Wraps, Salads and More

    Cooked turkey can be used in any of your favorite recipes that call for chicken. Why not put sliced leftover turkey on a bed of fresh spinach and add chopped vegetables for a healthy salad?

    Or if you like wraps, you can make turkey salad or just sliced turkey breast, stuffed into a wrap with lettuce and tomatoes, onions and a dash of your favorite salad dressing.

    Turkey Soup

    One of the most traditional ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey is to make turkey soup. But why not jazz up your turkey soup recipes?

    Try using cooked turkey instead of chicken in tortilla soup. Take out your slow cooker and make a turkey and dumpling soup with your leftover turkey.

    Other soup recipes for turkey include turkey and rice soup, turkey bean soup and a turkey soup with root vegetables where you can use your turkey leftovers.

    Try this Turkey Barley Soup from Easy Budget Recipes.

    turkey barley soup

    Turkey Pot Pie

    Pot pies are a family favorite on a cold fall evening. Why not use up some of your cooked turkey leftovers for this easy-to-make meal?

    One of the easiest ways to make turkey pot pie includes ingredients you may already have at home such as instant biscuit or pancake mix, cream of chicken soup, along with a bag of frozen mixed vegetables.

    Try this Turkey Pot Pie from Super Simple Salty Life.

    leftover turkey pot pie

    More great ways to enjoy leftover turkey:

    This turkey chili is easy to make and incredibly versatile. Serve on nachos, tacos or burritos, spoon it over rice, or dish it up in a baked potato.

    Make use of all that turkey from Thanksgiving with this easy (and affordable) turkey tetrazzini recipe! This creamy and delicious pasta dish is a perfect go-to for a quick dinner.

    These cheesy turkey enchiladas are the perfect way to use up leftovers!

    Do you have any ways to share on how to use your leftover turkey?

    More Turkey Tips:

    How to Deep Fry A Turkey

    How to Cook A Frozen Turkey

    Tips for Roasting A Turkey

    Best Wines to Drink With Turkey

  • Tips for Hosting a Neighborhood BBQ

    Do you want to host a BBQ event with your neighbors? Read my Tips for Hosting a Neighborhood BBQ!

    Tips for Hosting a Neighborhood BBQ

    Spring has finally arrived and while some families are still stuck at home, there’s no reason why you can’t plan a neighborhood BBQ. While crafting up my neighborhood BBQ ideas, I did take social distancing and other precautions into consideration. 

    These unique ideas will help you create a socially distanced, fun, and eventful neighborhood BBQ so that everyone can get some social time this summer without traveling.

    Tips for Hosting a Neighborhood BBQ

    Have a Designated Drink Station

    You can use a pitcher with a spout that features a few different drink options. Perhaps you have one pitcher labeled fruit-infused water, one labeled adults-only punch, and another for a neighborhood favorite drink option.

    Use disposable cups and set a black permanent marker out so guests can write their names on their cups. This will keep down the amount of trash you have after hosting this event, plus allow guests to know which cup belongs to them when they want to go back for more drinks.

    Have a cooler filled with ice and/or drinks near your drink station, too! Try to include a variety of bottled or canned drinks including water, tea, soda, sparkling water, juice boxes for kids, etc.

    Ask for Volunteers

    Yes, you’re the one hosting this neighborhood BBQ event but that doesn’t mean you have to pay and make everything for the party. Ask neighbors if they can bring a dish or dessert to help offset the cost and time involved with this outdoor event.

    Consider having neighbors’ assigned categories of items they can bring to help. Some items you may ask guests to bring include their own folding chairs, drink cups, utensils, food dishes, and dessert options. Make a list of things you’d like some help with and see which neighbors are willing to assist.

    Keep Food Covered

    Since this will be an outdoor-only event, you’re going to need proper storage containers to keep insects out of your food. You can use plastic or glass food storage containers that have a lid to keep food fresh and safe from outdoor pests. I prefer these disposable aluminum storage containers.

    Another way to keep food covered is to have a few rolls of aluminum foil or plastic wrap available for guests to keep the food covered after they’ve grabbed their portion. Use ice cubes in a bowl to keep food fresh, and heating racks for food that needs to stay warm.

    Don’t Skimp on Trash Cans

    With a neighborhood BBQ event, you’re going to need those trash cans. Get some trash cans and recycle containers ready outside at various locations so that you’re not left with trash everywhere. Label the trash cans if they’re meant for specific items.

    Have your neighbors bring over extra trash bins so you can cut costs involved with buying brand new trash bins. I’m sure your neighbors will be happy to help keep the neighborhood clean by bringing along trash cans to help offset the risk of people littering.

    Mark Social Distancing

    Lastly, if you want to maintain social distancing guidelines outlined for your region then use duct tape or sidewalk chalk for markers. This will help your guests maintain the 3-6 feet distance guideline. Some neighborhoods have had outdoor events like this with much success!

    In conclusion, if you’re ready to mingle safely with your neighbors, then why not use my tips to host a neighborhood BBQ event this weekend?! I hope that these tips have inspired you to get outside to enjoy great conversations and delicious food with those who live in your local area. 

  • How to Cook Rice in a Crock Pot

    Rice is one of those foods that seem deceptively easy to make. The concept appears simple; just put some water and rice together and let them simmer for a while.

    However, adding too much water or letting the rice simmer just a little too long results in a watery mess or blackened rice heat-fused to the inside of your pan. Learn how to cook rice in a crock pot!

    Some resort to getting a rice cooker to avoid such disasters, but they’re unnecessary. Instead, get out your crockpot. The long, slow cooking times and low heat cook rice perfectly every time.

    How to Cook Rice in a Crock Pot

    You Will Need:

        Butter or margarine
        Crockpot
        Rice
        Chicken or beef stock

    Scoop up some butter or margarine on your fingers and grease the inside of the crockpot thoroughly. Press your fingers into the edges and creases of the crockpot, covering the entire surface.

    The butter or margarine adds some flavor and keeps the rice from sticking to the sides of the pot as it cooks.

    Add about half as much raw rice as you want to end up with at the end of the cooking process. If you want to make 4 cups of cooked rice, you only need 2 cups of raw rice. The rice will fluff up and expand a lot while it cooks.

    Pour in 2 cups of chicken or beef stock for each cup of rice you’re cooking. For 2 cups of raw rice, you need 4 cups, or 2 pints, of stock.

    Vegetarians may use vegetable stock or water. If you choose to use water, add about a tablespoon of salt to the rice, as well.

    Stir the rice and liquid light. Place the lid on the crockpot and turn it on low.

    Check on the rice about every 30 minutes.

    White rice should take about 2 hours to cook, while brown rice may take 3 or 4 hours.

    Recipe Options

    If cooking plain old rice by itself doesn’t seem very exciting, add a few other things to it.

    Chili and Rice

    Pre-cooked sausages, shrimp, tomatoes, and chili peppers stewed with the rice make delicious paella. A can of black beans and some tomato sauce creates a simple and filling chili recipe.

    Rice Pudding

    Create rice pudding by substituting the stock or water for milk. Add 1/4 cup to a full cup of sugar or sweetener and a handful of each of raisins and chopped dates.

    When the pudding is finished, top it with some slivered almonds or toasted walnuts.

  • Tips for Cooking With Wine

    Do you want to try new flavors with your recipes? Cook with wine! Read my tips for cooking with wine. Plus, you’ll see a Baked Ham Pontalba recipe at the end of this post to try!

    Tips for Cooking With Wine

    There are few meat or fish dishes that are not enhanced by a few dollops from your favorite wine bottle while they are simmering on the stove.

    It isn’t a question of spiking the food since alcohol evaporates as soon as it reaches the boiling point. Like thyme or any other seasoning, wine is used to round out the flavor.

    This does not mean that you should buy the cheapest wine available in the mistaken belief that, since it is boiled, it doesn’t matter. Bear in mind the fact that a wine that is too sweet or too sour for your drinking taste will hardly improve the entree.

    As a matter of fact, once it cooks down, the taste of wine becomes considerably more pronounced.

    Shop Wines:

    Tips for Cooking With Wine

    In short, never pour into the pot a wine you wouldn’t pour into your glass.

    The old adage of white wine with white meat and red with red is pretty silly whether you are going to drink it with your meal or cook with it. With the exception of fish which is generally better cooked with white wine, both red and white, or rose for that matter, go equally well with chicken, veal or beef.

    Generally speaking, it is preferable to use a full-bodied wine that is on the dry side but not too tart, whether it be red or white. Reasonably priced red wines obtainable in this country include Pinot Noir and many of the Chiantis.

    White wines are a little more tricky if you’re looking for bargains, and it is often safer to cook with dry white vermouth.

    If the meat you are cooking tends to toughness, it is wise to marinate it overnight in wine, keeping it in the refrigerator.

    Sherry is popular in seafood dishes, but the sherry should be dry. Since sherry has a pronounced flavor, use it sparingly.

    Sweet dessert wines like Marsala give a lift to fruit compotes or custards like Zabaglione, that toothsome Italian concoction of sugar and egg yolks.

    Wine cookery became popular in America during the 18th and 19th centuries with the influx of thousands of emigres from the countries of Europe. Many of the finest dishes were developed in the kitchens of Louisiana’s Creoles, those descendants of French and Spanish settlers.

    Tips for Cooking With Wine

    Who but the Creoles could have conceived such a delectable dish as Ham Pontalba with its tongue-tingling stuffing of onion and truffles bathed in Madeira wine?

    Baked Ham Pontalba

        14 pound ham baked
        4 cups shelled pecans ground
        3 onions chopped fine
        1 small can truffles cut in pieces
        6 bay leaves
        2 sprigs (½ teaspoon dried) thyme
        3 teaspoons dried sage
        3 teaspoons ground cloves
        ¼ teaspoon cayenne
        ½ cup Madeira wine
        1 apple
        1 cup cane syrup
        Brown sugar
        Fine dry bread crumbs

    Have your butcher at your local supermarket or meat market bone the ham.

    If a dry, smoked ham is used, the ham must be soaked in cold water for 12 hours. When a modern, cured ham is used, you do not have to soak the ham.

    Prepare the Stuffing

    Cut out about ½ lb. ham to make a cavity. Work the ham through a food grinder.

    Blend mixture with pecans, one chopped onion, truffles, two crumbled bay leaves, thyme, one teaspoon sage, one teaspoon ground cloves, cayenne, and Madeira.

    Pack the stuffing into ham cavity, sewing or skewering it securely.

    Add these seasonings on the ham: one chopped onion, two bay leaves, one teaspoon sage, one teaspoon cloves. Sew a cloth securely around the ham and place it in a large kettle.

    Add enough water to the kettle to cover. Add the remaining chopped onion, bay leaves, sage, cloves, whole unpared apple, and the syrup. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer for about six hours or until tender.

    Allow the ham to cool in the liquid. Once cooled, remove the rind, pat ham with a mixture of brown sugar and crumbs.

    Bake in a preheated 375-degree oven until the surface is well-browned and the ham is hot!

    You can also purchase cooking wine if interested!