Soul Food Cooking

Chicken picatta

pork chop, grape tomatoes, bocconcini, balsamic glaze, prosciutto bits, and basil

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Homemade Chicken Parm

Blueberry pancakes with Blueberry compote, scrambled eggs, sausage and arugula salad

Homemade Rigatoni Alla Vodka, with Ragù Napoletano

Lobster Roll

Stromboli with prosciutto, pepperoni and basil

Vegetable Curry and Biryani Rice are two classic Indian dishes that pair beautifully together. The vegetable curry is rich and flavorful, while the biryani rice is fragrant and spiced. Here's how to make both:

Ingredients
For the Vegetable Curry:
2 tablespoons oil or ghee

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, minced

1 green chili, slit (optional, for heat)

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, potatoes, cauliflower, beans)

1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream

1/2 cup water

Salt, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Biryani Rice:
1 1/2 cups basmati rice

2 tablespoons oil or ghee

1 cinnamon stick

2-3 green cardamom pods

2-3 cloves

1 bay leaf

1 star anise (optional)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 large onion, thinly sliced

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/2 teaspoon garam masala

3 cups water or vegetable stock

Salt, to taste

Fresh cilantro or mint, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Biryani Rice
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain.

Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaf, star anise (if using), and cumin seeds. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the turmeric and garam masala.

Add the drained rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes, coating the rice with the spices.

Pour in the water or vegetable stock and add salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro or mint. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Curry
Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic, ginger, and green chili (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and break down, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Add the mixed vegetables and stir to coat them in the spice mixture.

Pour in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and water. Season with salt.

Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Step 3: Serve
Serve the vegetable curry alongside the fragrant biryani rice.

Optional: Add a side of raita (yogurt with cucumber and spices) or naan bread for a complete meal.

Tips
For extra flavor, toast whole spices (cumin seeds, coriander seeds, etc.) and grind them fresh for the curry.

Adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or less chili powder and green chilies.

You can add protein like chickpeas or paneer to the vegetable curry for a heartier dish.

Enjoy this delicious and aromatic meal!

Squarritos are a fun and creative twist on burritos, where the filling is wrapped in a square-shaped tortilla instead of the traditional round one. They’re perfect for a unique and portable meal. Here's how to make them:

Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime)

1 cup cooked protein (e.g., shredded chicken, ground beef, black beans, or tofu)

1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo

1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1/4 cup guacamole or mashed avocado

1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)

1/4 cup black beans (optional)

1/4 cup diced bell peppers or onions (optional)

1 teaspoon taco seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)

For Assembly:
2 large square tortillas (or round tortillas trimmed into squares)

1 tablespoon butter or oil (for cooking)

Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, protein, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and any optional ingredients (corn, black beans, bell peppers, etc.). Mix well.

Add taco seasoning if desired and stir to combine.

Step 2: Assemble the Squarritos
Lay a square tortilla flat on a clean surface.

Spoon half of the filling mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold the bottom edge up and roll tightly to form a square-shaped burrito. Repeat with the second tortilla.

Step 3: Cook the Squarritos
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the butter or oil.

Place the squarritos seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Serve
Slice the squarritos in half diagonally or into smaller pieces for easier eating.

Serve with extra salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side.

Tips
Use large, flexible tortillas to make rolling easier. If you only have round tortillas, trim them into squares before assembling.

Customize the filling to your taste—add ingredients like sautéed veggies, jalapeños, or hot sauce.

For a healthier version, use whole wheat tortillas and low-fat cheese.

Enjoy your squarritos as a fun and delicious meal or snack!

Tomato, Basil & Serrano Pepper Mac & Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with the freshness of tomatoes, basil, and a spicy kick from serrano peppers. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients
For the Mac & Cheese:
12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 serrano pepper, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)

1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping (Optional):
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (it should be smooth and bubbly).

Slowly pour in the milk (and heavy cream, if using), whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, Gruyère (or Monterey Jack), and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Add the chopped serrano pepper and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.

Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter until combined.

Step 5: Bake (Optional)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.

Garnish with additional fresh basil and serve warm.

Tips
For extra spice, leave the seeds in the serrano pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

If you prefer a stovetop version, skip the baking step and serve the mac and cheese directly after combining the pasta and sauce.

Customize with other add-ins like cooked bacon, spinach, or roasted garlic.

Enjoy this creamy, spicy, and fresh take on mac and cheese!

French bread pizza is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that uses a loaf of French bread as the base. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun snack. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients
For the Pizza:
1 loaf French bread (about 12-14 inches long)

1 cup marinara or pizza sauce

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Your favorite toppings (e.g., pepperoni, cooked sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, etc.)

Optional Garnishes:
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Red pepper flakes

Extra drizzle of olive oil

Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the French Bread
Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise, creating two long halves.

Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Step 3: Add the Sauce
Spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the cut sides of the bread.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.

Add your favorite toppings (e.g., pepperoni, cooked sausage, vegetables, etc.).

Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes.

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Slice into portions and serve warm.

Tips
For extra flavor, brush the cut sides of the bread with olive oil or garlic butter before adding the sauce.

Customize the toppings to suit your taste—try combinations like BBQ chicken, ham and pineapple, or veggie-packed options.

If you like a crispier crust, bake the bread halves for 5 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.

Enjoy your homemade French bread pizza—it’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser!