Monday, October 10, 2011

Jalapeno Mashed Potatoes

This is one of our favorites. Peter used to make these for me as a side to our yummy salmon dinners. At some point I took over and started making them myself. In Houston we could find this dressing but I have not been able to find it in Denver. I did come across this variation recently and we were back on for our favorite spicy mashed potatoes.

I like to use one large russet potato and one small russet potato. I find that they make the perfect portion for two people.



Jalapeno Mashed Potatoes
2 russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
3 tablespoons jalapeno ranch dressing
1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons butter
cracked white pepper (can substitute black pepper)
kosher salt
jalapeno pepper, sliced thin (optional)

Boil the potatoes in a large pot for about 20 minutes. Use a fork to test the potatoes, When tender, drain and put back into pot. Add the butter and use a potato masher to mash the potatoes. Mix in the dressing, whipping cream, salt and pepper. Top with fresh jalapeno slices.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Goat Cheese Drop Biscuits

I absolutely adore goat cheese. I also adore biscuits. So when I found this recipe I knew I had to give it a try. I had it saved for while but the new baby kept me VERY busy so I'm just now getting around to posting this.

I managed to only get 9 biscuits though the recipe is supposed to yield 10. I guess I dropped big biscuits?





Goat Cheese Drop Biscuits
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons (2 ounces) goat cheese
1 cup buttermilk
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
garlic and herb seasoning, optional



Preheat oven to 425ยบ.  Place a 10 inch cast iron skillet in oven during preheating.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut in goat cheese and 4 tablespoons butter. Make a well in center and add buttermilk.  Using a wooden spoon, stir ingredients until just moistened, adding up to a tablespoon more buttermilk if needed.

Remove the hot skillet from the oven and add 1 tablespoon butter.  Once butter has melted, use a 1/4 cup measure to drop batter into skillet. Melt 1 tablespoon butter and brush over biscuit tops.
Bake for 14-16 minutes, until biscuits are golden on top.  Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garlic and herb seasoning.

Yield: 10 biscuits
Adapted from Savory Spicy Sweet, originally from Art Smith