Classic Beef Bourguignon

Give a classic dish like beef bourguignon a yummy twist for a family pleasing dinner. This recipe tastes fancy, but is actually quite easy to make. The most difficult part of making this time tested dish at home is having the patience to wait for a few hours while your house fills with the most mouthwatering aromas!

While this dish was inspired by Julia Child's, I have made a few simple changes to make the recipe work with what I had on hand. My family loved the results and I believe your family will too. With tender chunks of beef and the most saucy gravy, this dish offers stick to your ribs comfort food with each bite.

While I didn't use pearl onions as Julia Child would have, I thought the cherry tomatoes were a perfect change and it allowed me to put some of the produce I had in my fridge to work without having to buy anything special for the dish. With grocery prices being so high, it is great to have recipes you can adapt to what you already have at home.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 ounces bacon, coarsely chopped

1 pound of beef or even ham 

1 carrot 

1 white onion

3 garlic cloves

1 pinch coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

3/4 tablespoon flour

7 cherry tomatoes

2 cups red wine

2 cups beef or vegetable broth 

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (separate)

1 bay leaves

1/3 pound fresh mushrooms

1 tablespoons butter.

1. Cut the bacon into large pieces. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, fry the bacon in 1/2 tablespoon olive oil for about 3 minutes, until crisp and browned. Place the bacon on a serving platter. 

2. Blot the beef with a paper towel. Cut into large pieces Fry the beef in the bacon fat over high heat on all sides. Send the beef to the bacon.

3. Melt the butter in a frying pan. Add chopped garlic clove and mushrooms cut in half. Saute until golden. Set the mushrooms aside.

4. Place sliced carrots and chopped onion in the pan until transparent. Add 1-2 cloves of chopped garlic and cook for another minute. At this point, if you have a lot of fat, the excess fat can be drained . We add a little fat. Return the bacon and meat to the pot.

5. Season with 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt and a pinch of ground pepper. Add the cherry tomatoes, chiles, cherry tomatoes, bay leaf, parsley, and flour. Pour in the wine and enough broth to cover the meat. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat begins to fall apart. Add the prepared mushrooms 5 minutes before the end of cooking. Turn off the heat and leave the dish on the stove for 15 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend.

Tips: 

If the gravy is a bit runny, dilute flour in water and add it at the end of cooking the stew. If it is thick, dilute it with wine.

The dish becomes tastier on the second and third day. Take this into account when planning your menu

Dry spices and spicy ingredients can be varied.

Serve Beef Bourguignon with fresh bread, potatoes, mashed potatoes, rice or noodles. 

Enjoy!

Find more great recipes here:

Foolproof Biscuits

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Homemade Coleslaw Dressing 

Peanut Butter Chicken and Noodles

Here’s How to Make Your Wedding Day Extra Fun and Fabulous!

 Weddings are full of fun, vibrancy and lifelong memories you won’t ever want to forget about. Having a fabulous and enjoyable wedding day is truly what it’s all about, so how can you get the wheels in motion and make it all happen? When it comes to dancing all night at your wedding, and ensuring your guests have the best time ever, you need to prioritize a handful of important details. Whether you’re choosing a glorious venue in a part of the world that means the most to you, or you’re getting your music choices just right, there are so many things you can do to ensure every moment is just as fun and fabulous as you had hoped!

Choose a Vibrant Venue

If you’re looking to create fabulous fun for all of your guests, you need to choose a wedding venue that is in keeping with this tone too. A vibrant venue that is full of character, style and beauty will always be a top choice for you and your partner. Finding the best wedding venue for your big day should be very easy, especially when you go with your instincts. You will get a good feeling as soon as you walk into a venue; if it gives you butterflies and makes you smile from ear to ear, it’s probably the one!

Get Your Music Choices Just Right

Wedding music can help to set the vibe of your wedding right away, so make sure you spend plenty of time refining your choices and getting everything just right. From your first dance, to the song that you walk down the aisle to, these choices can build the atmosphere in a fun, vibrant and positive way from the moments your guests walk into the venue.

Select Your Guests Wisely

When it comes to selecting your wedding guests, you need to think carefully about who you want to be next to you on your big day. Although you may feel obliged to invite certain people due to family history and connections, this isn’t always the best way to approach your guest list as you may not be totally happy with the final outcome.

Focus on the Finer Details

The smaller details of your wedding day will certainly become a hugely memorable aspect of your entire celebration, so don’t forget to dedicate some time to these details. From wedding favors, to photobooths, there are so many exciting, unique and fun elements to incorporate into your big day that will bring a smile to everyone’s face right away!

Hopefully, you can consider all of the details mentioned above so that you can plan the most memorable, exciting and enjoyable wedding day ever. There is no need to stress about the little things, but when you focus on the bigger picture everything will soon fall into place. Most of all, have fun making all of these decisions with the love of your life, there is truly no better feeling!

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How to Try a New Hobby Without Spending a Fortune

 

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Who doesn’t love awakening their creative magic through a hobby, right? But for any hobby (creative or not), it always starts the same way. A random thought pops into your head: That looks fun, maybe I should try it! Suddenly, you’re knee-deep in research, scrolling through gear reviews, watching YouTube tutorials, and convincing yourself that yes, you absolutely need the top-of-the-line version of everything.

So, before you know it, the shopping cart total is shocking, the credit card is trembling, and the worst part? You haven’t even tried the hobby yet. What if it turns out to be boring? Or too hard? Or maybe too much effort? Now, instead of a fun new skill, you just have regret, an empty wallet, and a set of golf clubs you used exactly once.

But a new hobby shouldn’t feel like signing up for a lifetime financial commitment. Instead, it’s best to just dip a toe in without drowning in expenses, and yeah, you should! So here’s exactly how!

Borrow It Before Buying It

For starters, not every hobby requires instant ownership. Ideally, just borrowing from a friend, renting equipment, or finding a low-cost way to try something out keeps money in your pocket until you’re sure the hobby is worth it. For example, are you thinking about learning an instrument? Well, band instrument rentals exist for a reason. No need to drop serious cash on a trumpet, only to discover that making a sound requires more lung power than expected. Rentals give a risk-free way to see if an instrument actually feels right before committing.

Cheap (or Free) Versions Work Just Fine

Every hobby has a fancy, expensive version and a perfectly fine budget-friendly option. Actually, photography is a great example. But in all honesty, a smartphone works before splurging on a professional camera. What about cooking? Well, a sharp kitchen knife and a frying pan get the job done before building a collection of specialty cookware (don’t fall for what those YouTubers try and sell you).

But hobbies don’t suddenly become more enjoyable just because they’re expensive. Before upgrading, it helps to figure out if this is a passing interest or something that really deserves an investment.

Use What’s Already Lying Around

Sometimes, the best way to test out a hobby is by using what’s already in the house. No, really, you should think of it like that. For example, want to try painting? Well, just go ahead and grab an old set of craft paints. Curious about yoga? Believe it or not, but a towel works just as well as a $100 mat for getting started. Thinking about baking? A mixing bowl, an oven, and a recipe are literally all that’s needed.

Seriously, instead of just jumping straight to buying all the gear, it's a trap. Seeing how a hobby feels first makes sure it’s actually fun before spending a dime.

Take a Class Instead of Buying Everything Upfront

Some hobbies look fun, well, until actually trying them. Now pottery seems peaceful and artistic until realizing it requires arm strength and patience. Woodworking sounds satisfying until standing in front of a power saw for the first time.

Okay, so instead of buying an entire setup right away, taking a class or joining a workshop gives a real sense of what the hobby requires. Actually, you can expect that local libraries, community centers, and studios offer low-cost sessions where supplies are included, making it easy to test things out without the financial risk.

Supporting Your Family’s Wellness Through Seasonal Changes

 

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Seasonal changes can bring a fresh perspective to routines, but they also come with unique challenges for health. The transition from warm summer days to crisp autumn mornings or cold winter nights can impact energy levels, immunity, and overall well-being. Families often notice these shifts through more frequent colds, increased fatigue, or even seasonal allergies.

Adapting your family’s wellness approach to match these changes is essential to maintain good health year-round. From strengthening the immune system to managing allergies, a proactive mindset can help everyone navigate seasonal transitions more smoothly.

The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Family Health

As temperatures fluctuate, the body needs time to adjust. Seasonal changes can affect your family’s immune defenses, making it easier for colds and other illnesses to take hold. In the winter months, for instance, lower temperatures and less sunlight can weaken the immune system, while spring often brings pollen and allergens that trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

Understanding these seasonal challenges is the first step in keeping your family healthy. Knowing what to expect during each season allows you to prepare better and incorporate habits that minimize health risks.

Nutritional Support for a Stronger Immune System

Nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting immunity, especially during seasons when health challenges are more frequent. A balanced diet filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides the vitamins and minerals needed to keep your family’s immune system strong.

If your family experiences frequent colds or general fatigue, you may want to consider vitamins for weak immune system issues. These supplements are designed to support natural defenses, making it easier to stay healthy during challenging seasons. 

Probiotics, for example, promote gut health, which is closely linked to immune function. Vitamin D, often lacking during colder months due to reduced sun exposure, supports the body’s ability to fight off illnesses. Zinc is another valuable nutrient that plays a role in immune response. Choosing supplements with a focus on high-quality ingredients and consulting a healthcare provider ensures they meet your family’s needs.

Encouraging Healthy Habits Year-Round

Healthy habits are the backbone of wellness, no matter the season. Encouraging your family to adopt simple yet impactful routines can help everyone feel their best throughout the year.

One of the easiest ways to support health is through regular handwashing. It’s an effective way to reduce the spread of germs and prevent common illnesses, especially during colder months when colds and flu are more prevalent. Reminding children to wash their hands before meals, after playing outdoors, or when they’ve been around others can make a big difference.

Staying hydrated is another important habit. While people often associate hydration with summer heat, it’s equally important during cooler months when indoor heating can cause dehydration. Keep water bottles accessible and encourage everyone to drink water consistently throughout the day.

Physical activity also plays a critical role in staying healthy. Outdoor activities, like walking, biking, or simply playing in the yard, promote fitness and expose the body to natural sunlight, which helps maintain vitamin D levels. Even during colder seasons, bundling up and spending time outdoors can improve mood and energy levels.

Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is essential, too. Proper rest supports the immune system and helps the body recover from daily stress. Encourage family members to have a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or dimming lights before bed, to promote better sleep.

Managing Seasonal Allergies and Common Illnesses

Seasonal allergies can disrupt family life, especially during spring and fall. Symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion can make daily activities challenging for children and adults alike. To manage allergies, reduce exposure to triggers. Keep windows closed during high pollen days, use air purifiers, and clean frequently used areas like carpets and bedding.

For colds and other common illnesses, early action can help minimize discomfort. Teach children to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing and encourage them to avoid sharing utensils or drinks with others. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.

Boosting Family Wellness with Seasonal Activities

Seasonal activities are a great way to combine fun with wellness. In spring, gardening can encourage kids to spend time outdoors while learning about plants and healthy eating. Summer offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, or picnics that promote physical activity.

During fall, apple picking or visiting pumpkin patches can double as exercise and family bonding. In winter, indoor activities like cooking healthy meals together or yoga sessions can keep everyone active and engaged. These activities strengthen family connections while contributing to overall well-being.

Seasonal changes don’t have to disrupt your family’s health. By focusing on nutrition, building healthy habits, managing allergies, and enjoying seasonal activities, you can support wellness year-round. With consistent effort, you create a foundation for good health that benefits every family member, no matter the time of year.

Tasty Homemade Donut Recipes

 

Donut Heaven: A Collection of Delicious Donut Recipes

Ah, donuts. Those fluffy, glazed rings of joy that bring smiles to faces all over the world. But who says you have to rely on store-bought donuts? Making donuts at home is easier than you think, and the results are infinitely more satisfying (and delicious!).

This blog post is your gateway to donut nirvana. We've compiled a collection of donut recipes, from classic glazed to fun and creative flavors, that will have you whipping up batches in no time.

For the Adventurous Donut Enthusiast:

Feeling a little more adventurous? We've got you covered! Try out our recipes for:

• Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts: These donuts have a denser texture and a tangy flavor that's absolutely delightful.
• Baked Apple Cider Donuts: A lighter take on the donut, these baked donuts are bursting with fall flavors. Perfect for a cozy afternoon!
• Chocolate Frosted Donuts: Who can resist a rich chocolate frosting? This recipe takes classic donuts to a whole new level.

Beyond the Doughnut Hole:

Don't forget about the fun part of making donuts - decorating! We have a variety of frosting and glaze recipes to choose from, including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and maple. You can even get creative with sprinkles, chopped nuts, and drizzles.

Pro-Tips for Donut Perfection:

• Freshness is Key: Donuts are best enjoyed fresh. Make a batch for a weekend brunch or afternoon treat.
• Oil Temperature Matters: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (around 375°F) to ensure your donuts cook evenly and don't get greasy.
• Don't Skimp on the Glaze: A good glaze is the crowning glory of a donut. Be generous with your glaze and let those donuts take a good dunk!

So what are you waiting for? Grab your rolling pin, crank up the tunes, and get ready to bake a batch of donut deliciousness. With this collection of recipes and a little bit of love, you'll be a donut-making pro in no time!

Here are some of my favorite homemade donut recipes! Make sure you click thru some of the links to view the recipes.

Brioche Crumb Donuts by The Practical Kitchen

This brioche donut recipe has the most delectable crumb topping! These are going to remind you of an Entemann’s but they taste so much fresher!

Creme Brulee Donuts by Corrie Cooks

This recipe makes such elegant cream filled donuts at home. You are sure to appreciate how easy this recipe is to recreate if you love all things creme brulee.

Baked Double Chocolate Donuts by What the Fork

This baked donut recipe is so good! It has loads of chocolate flavor in a gluten free form that everyone can enjoy.

Strawberry Donuts by Fit and Full

These donuts have a sweet strawberry flavor that you will love. Bake them for a delicious start to your day or serve them as a snack  in the afternoon.

Oreo Donuts by Organically Addison

If you love cookies and cream flavor then these donuts are going to pique your interest! This decadent donut recipe is perfect for a treat to share with someone sweet.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Donuts by Bake It With Love

This donut recipe brings lots of peanut butter flavor to your breakfast routine. Sprinkle in plenty of chocolate chips for a dreamy combination.

Cinnamon Roll Donuts by Savor the Spoonful

Can’t decide between donuts and cinnamon rolls? Why not combine them into one tasty treat? You are sure to love the cinnamon burst these donuts offer.

Churro Donuts by I Heart Eating

If you love churros, then adding them to donuts is going to be a delicious idea that works for a dreamy breakfast or an epic dessert.

Confetti Baked Donuts by Life as a Strawberry

This donut recipe tastes like a party in every bite! You are sure to love the tender baked donut paired with the decadent chocolate glaze that is so fudgy!

Baked Chocolate Donuts by The Flour Handprint

These donuts are baked to perfection with so much chocolate flavor. Toss them in powdered sugar or dip them into chocolate glaze for a restaurant quality sweet treat.

Red Velvet Donuts by Lane and Grey Fare

This red velvet donut recipe is beautiful to look at, but wait until you taste these vegan donuts, you are going to LOVE them!

Banana Donuts with Chocolate Glaze by Homan at Home

These donuts have a soft sweet flavor that is perfect for anyone who loves bananas. Dip them in chocolate for a perfect start to the day.

Apple Cider Donuts by The Gunny Sack

This apple cider donut recipe has so much fall flavor! Make these to savor with a cup of hot apple cider for a seasonal sweet that you are sure to love.

Brioche Donuts by A Baking Journey

This decadent, rich donut recipe is perfect for a Sunday brunch. Enjoy them plain or stuff them with cream, fruit or custard for a super yummy homemade treat.

Raised Donuts by Platter Talk

This classic donut recipe is perfect! These are so good that they will take you back to grandma’s kitchen for a moment when you taste them.

Coquito Donuts by Sense and Edibility

This donut recipe takes your taste buds on a tropical vacation with so much coconut flavor!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts by The Simple Sweet Life

These pumpkin spice latte donuts are what you make when you have a craving for seasonal flavors. This donut makes for a delicious breakfast or snack that has so much pumpkin flavor.

Boston Cream Donuts by Sugar Pursuit

These cream filled donuts are the definition of decadence. Make them for dessert, but be prepared! Everyone will ask you to make these again!

Fruity Pebbles Donuts by The Savory Cipolla

This colorful donut recipe makes use of a favorite cereal! These are perfect for the kids, but you will want to grab a few for yourself too.

S’mores Donuts with Marshmallow Cream by Broken Oven Baking

This donut recipe is full of summer vibes! Graham cracker crumbs, chocolate glaze and marshmallow cream make for the best s’mores donut ever!

Sour Cream Donuts by Craving Some Creativity

This recipe makes for retro donuts that taste timelessly good! Sour cream gives these donuts a rich and moist flavor.

Jelly Donuts by An Edible Mosaic 

Stuff these donuts with your favorite jelly for a delicious treat you can have for breakfast or dessert.

Pistachio Cream Donuts by Addicted to Dates

This vegan donut recipe has the best cream filling! If you like pistachios, then you are going to want to grab a bite of this treat.

Mini Orange Donuts by 24 Bite

These mini donuts are made the easy way; with cake mix and a donut maker! You will love this fast and flavorful recipe for easy breakfasts.

Pennsylvania Dutch Donuts by Beyond the Butter

These cream filled donuts are full of Pennsylvania Dutch flavor! You are sure to love the fluffy texture these homemade donuts offer.

Sourdough Discard Donuts by Season and Thyme

Don’t toss that sourdough discard! Make the most flavorful donuts with it. These are simple and simply delicious!

Caramel Biscuit Donuts by Baba Ganosh

These tasty treats start with canned biscuits and end up as a goodie that rivals a bakery’s donuts! I know you will love these fast goodies.

Honey Doughnuts by Live to Sweet

This simple sweet donut recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Dip them in a delicate vanilla honey glaze for the best flavor.

Instant Pot Donuts by Corrie Cooks

Did you know you can make donuts in your instant pot? These are so tasty and come together really fast!

Krispy Kreme Donuts by Seasonal Cravings

These taste just like krispie kreme, but are from your home kitchen! Make these for a really good snack that always hits the spot.

Find more favorite recipes here:

Donut Balls

D is for Donut Coloring page

Baked Chocolate Peanut Butter Donuts

Paper Plate Donuts