No matter how many casseroles have been served at Sons of Norway meetings, church pot lucks, Grandma's house, or family gatherings, another creative inspiration of a casserole waits on the horizon.
For years I have practiced this rule "If loved ones aren't responding to you with the zest you would prefer, invite them over for a casserole meal."
Once their lips enjoy this tasty meal, they usually come around. A casserole that has a selection of meat, poultry or fish which is married to vegetables, herbs, seasoning and liquid cooked slowly in a baking dish is sure to win most hearts and taste buds.
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Charles Repnow is a freelance writer who lives in Rugby. His column appears alternate Wednesdays in The Minot Daily News.
For far too long in our world casseroles have not been considered to be communicators this is surely a mistake! The society of Casserole Communicators has known for years the peace they bring to the world when they show up on the doorstep with a casserole in hand.
Let's face it. With our busy schedules of today's lifestyle, many families find it hard to fix the nourishing meals that family members need. Casseroles are the answer. You may not agree, so let me ask you this. When was the last time you had time to press your shoelaces? OK fact proven. You are too busy for the seven course meal. Casseroles can be your best friend when you are pressed for time in the kitchen, and often they can be made ahead. Making a casserole for the family is a win-win because when the family is sitting down together, they are communicating! We don't need a series of studies to realize the importance of families sharing and talking about their day with each other. Now when this is done at the table, all those gathered around get the best perks and often some of the sweetest things life has to offer.
Most casseroles are easy to prepare, they have the appeal of warmth, as well as being very appetizing. Best of all, a casserole needs only a salad, beverage, and dessert to make it a complete deluxe meal. If you really insist on going all out, go ahead and add bread, and don't forget the table favors and hand printed place cards! You may have a trying day at work, and who knows? Some projects may have even veered you off track. Relax, and remember it is the prepared casserole that will allow you to keep your cool as you lay a plan to be successful.
I do believe the next time that Congress is in gridlock they need to recess and all process to the dining room for a meal. Just maybe after a delightful casserole they will realize and then be able to understand that getting lost in your own thoughts is worthless. However, while sharing this meal and discussing the concerns of others they may find the common ground that allows them to move forward for all of humanity. Let us forever promote the power of the casserole.
Recipes
This is a casserole that, when finished baking, looks like quiche. When making a recipe we should always first read the recipe through and understand it before beginning. This recipe requires a number of steps, but all are worth it when you taste the results. We have the pleasure of using dry mustard and its pungent flavor gives this casserole the gentlest of kicks. Pairing this with a lettuce and tomato salad and finishing it off with a pudding dessert will have all that have gathered at the red gingham smiling.
High Hat Chicken Supper
1/2 cup butter
Flour
1-1/4 teaspoon salt
Dash of pepper
2 teaspoon instant onion
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1-2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cup diced chicken
2 tablespoon chopped pimento
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 eggs, separated
2 tablespoons melted butter
Melt butter over low heat in a medium saucepan. Blend in 1/2 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, instant onion, basil and paprika. Gradually stir in 1 cup evaporated milk and chicken broth, keeping mixture smooth. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened. Stir in lemon juice, diced onion and pimento. Turn into a buttered 1-1/2-quart baking dish. Set aside.
Combine 2/3 cup flour with 1/4 teaspoon salt and baking powder. Beat egg yolks slightly, then beat 2/3 cup evaporated milk and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Add to dry ingredients, mixing lightly. Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry. Fold into batter. Pour over creamed chicken in baking dish. Bake in 425 oven for 15 or until golden brown.
This will make 6 good-sized servings.
Many wonder which casserole to bring to the potluck. Here is a real winner and not only is it different, but it tastes great as well. The play of the sweet raisins and applesauce against the other ingredients are wonderful. Texture is an important element in food presentation and this casserole will walk away with the blue ribbon in that category. It would be a sin to present this unique casserole in an ordinary baking dish. So go ahead use your most matchless model of baking ware.
Cottage Noodle Casserole
1 tablespoon plus 1/4 teaspoon salt
3 quarts boiling water
8-ounces wide noodles
1 2-ounce envelope cream of leek soup mix
1/4 cup butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
2 cups milk
2 cups creamed cottage cheese
1 1-pound jar applesauce
1/4 cup raisins
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
Add 1 tablespoon salt to rapidly boiling water; gradually adding noodles so that water continues to boil. Cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender. Drain in colander. In saucepan combine soup mix, butter, remaining salt, pepper, mustard and milk. Cook and stir over medium heat until sauce thickens. Toss noodles with sauce, cottage cheese, applesauce, raisins, and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Turn into a greased 2-1/2 quart baking dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake at 350 F for 30 minutes, until bubbling hot. This will yield 6 good-sized servings.