Homemade Eggnog

November 30, 2012

I don’t always have an appreciation for Dan’s analytical mind, but lately, he’s been rubbing off on me. Take this eggnog, for example. What began as a single experimental batch several days ago quickly became a multi-round quest to develop a beverage that was perfectly pleasing in both taste and texture. Ingredients, methods, and temperatures were put to the test, leaving me with a much better understanding of eggnog and custards in general. Let’s talk about the concept for a moment: milk is infused with spices as it heats on the stove, then it is carefully whisked into egg yolks …

Baked Penne with Beer, Bacon, and Brie

November 27, 2012

With a title like that, there’s really not much else that needs to be said. Visions of homemade mac & cheese have been dancing in my head for months, and after a couple rounds of experimentation, I’d say we have ourselves a winner. Whole wheat penne bathes in a sauce of brie, parmesan, and wintry amber ale while bacon and panko bread crumbs provide smokiness and crunch. My husband will attest to the fact that I’m not much of a beer drinker, but I appreciate how the mellowness of the brie really lets the beer shine through (in a good …

Happy Thanksgiving!

November 22, 2012

My heart is swelling with gladness today as I contemplate the blessings in my life. A faithful husband, healthy children, true friendships, financial provision, returning strength… This year has been a dark one for me, but as God, in his grace, has been bringing warmth to my worn out soul these last few weeks, my eyes are starting to see his goodness more clearly. Gratitude is returning, pushing selfishness and discontentment away. Despite the daily temptation to dwell on the bad, the negative, or the not yet, for a moment, I’m trying to focus on the good. On what I …

Hearty Wild and Brown Rice Soup with Autumn Vegetables

November 20, 2012

Thanksgiving is so close I can almost taste it! We have plans to join together with dear friends and family on Thursday afternoon for a potluck feast, and while I still have a few items to pick up at the grocery store, I’m feeling a lot more prepared than I have in years past. The bird isn’t my responsibility, which is awesome since I don’t so much care for turkey, but I am pleased to be providing a few items including a kielbasa sausage-studded dressing (recipe TBD), a tangy Brussels sprout salad, and of course, smashies! If you’re still thinking …

Roasted Kabocha Squash Soup

November 18, 2012

I’ve been meaning to write this post for 2 or 3 days now, but life has been happening, and I’m learning that sometimes you just gotta roll with the punches. This past week, a momentary lapse of judgment led me to the produce section of my local grocery store with my two wee ones in tow. I used to do this sort of thing, back when I only had Eowyn, and it was no big deal, but these days, I find it’s easier on everyone if I do my shopping alone. This particular day, however, I was in the market …

Almond-Stuffed Dates with Chocolate and Sea Salt

November 13, 2012

Ten years and two babies have faded my memory somewhat, but I still remember that glorious moment during my senior year of high school. There were nearly 80 of us on stage in this last of many choral competitions in which I participated over the years, and I distinctly recall my silent resolution as we finished out the last few measures of Moses Hogan’s “Elijah Rock”. The power of this song shook me to the core, and in that moment, I knew I was exactly where I was made to be. Choir must always be a part of my life, …

Easy Garlic Roasted Mushrooms

November 9, 2012

Hello, friends. It’s Friday. At 4:45pm. And it’s almost dark. Craziness. I’ve been doing a lot of talking this week, so I’ve decided to change the pace and keep today’s comments brief. In short, these mushrooms are my new favorite side dish. They prep quickly, practically cook themselves, and are full of garlicky deliciousness. Perfect for when life gets a little crazy. I hope you like them as much as I do. ***** Print Easy Garlic Roasted Mushrooms Makes: 4 side dish servings Ingredients1 1/2 pounds white button mushrooms 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly minced …

Brie with Basil and Balsamic Syrup

November 7, 2012

In my last post, I shared the struggle I’ve had for years, this recurring tendency to overwork myself, burn out, and repeat. I talked about how going forward, the pressure’s going to be off and how I’m allowing myself the freedom to simply enjoy this blog, the food, and the community. What I didn’t mention, however, was the impetus for this change. I’ve been a Christian since the 3rd grade and while I’ve made references to my faith in this space, it hasn’t been a big point of discussion. Part of that has been due to the fact that this …

Pumpkin Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Buttercream Frosting

November 3, 2012

Here we are, friends. It’s been a year (plus 2 days) since I launched Pepper Lynn, and what a year it has been! Life looks very different than it did 12 months ago; my heart is both fuller and heavier, with the joy that I once knew slowly returning. I’d like to share my thoughts on the journey and what the future holds for me, but first, let’s talk cake! A modified version of Oh She Glows’ Pumpkin Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Buttercream Frosting is how I’m celebrating my blog’s 1st birthday. The cake itself reminds me of a less-dense sweet …

Pepper Lynn Loving people through food

Monthly Archives: November 2012

Homemade Eggnog

Baked Penne with Beer, Bacon, and Brie

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hearty Wild and Brown Rice Soup with Autumn Vegetables

Roasted Kabocha Squash Soup

Almond-Stuffed Dates with Chocolate and Sea Salt

Easy Garlic Roasted Mushrooms

Brie with Basil and Balsamic Syrup

Pumpkin Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Buttercream Frosting