GOD USES BROKEN EGGS

~serving up joy~
DEB REHDER & SUNNY ROWE

It's been a few days since we have visited with you; such a busy summer. (Please say you understand!) It is so easy to overlook, to forget things, even when they are important to you.

Which brings me to today's special herb: Rosemary.

In times gone by, Rosemary was an herb used to send a message to someone special, so that person would never be forgotten. In our busy hustld-bustle world today, we pay little attention to these sweet gestures of bygone eras, but I really think they are very charming. I know I still love getting home made goodies, tied up with string, with sprigs of flowers and herbs placed on the top. 

So today I have hunted down a very Victorian recipe, Rosemary Herb Shortbread Cookies. I am so excited to bring some of the old charm into our lives, and you can wrap these into little gifts, with a fresh sprig of Rosemary on top. Tuck a little note in, too to let them know they are at their very best in about two days. How could anyone forget such lovely thoughtfulness? After all, they are all about Rosemary♥

ROSEMARY 

 

"Known as a symbol of remembrance and friendship, rosemary fills a garden with aroma, flavor, and activity -- busily pollinating bees love the blooms."

"The Virgin Mary is said to have spread her blue cloak over a white-blossomed rosemary bush when she was resting, and the flowers turned blue. The shrub then became known as the 'Rose of Mary'".

The leaves are used traditionally Italian and Greek cooking. The herb has a bitter, astringent taste and is highly aromatic, which complements a wide variety of foods. When burnt, it gives off a smell similar to burning wood, which can be used to flavor foods while barbecuing. When using in food, a little Rosemary goes a long way; if you add too much it will make the food taste bitter and muddy. But the right amount, and you will be begging for more!

This is a delightful book of rosemary recipes @ Amazon.

 ROSEMARY SHORTBREAD COOKIES

1-1/2 cups Butter - unsalted

2/3 cup Granulated Sugar

2 Tbsp. Fresh Rosemary - chopped

2-3/4 cups All Purpose Flour

1/4 tsp. Salt

2 tsps. Granulated Sugar for decoration

Cream together the butter and 2/3 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the flour salt and rosemary until well blended. The dough will be somewhat soft. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.  

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into rectangles 1 1/2x2 inches in size. Place cookies 1 inch apart on the lined cookie sheets. Sprinkle the remaining sugar over the tops. (You can use cookie cutters for different holidays, too. And you can tint the dough, if you like.)

Bake for 8 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden at the edges. Cool on wire racks, and store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Note: These are wonderful served with iced mint tea, or lemonade. 

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FIXING THE BROKENESS

You Are God’s Seasoning!

"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men." (Matthew 5:13, NKJV)

I believe Jesus used the term “you are the salt of the earth”, for many reasons.  Salt can do so much for our food.  It is used to season our food as well as a preservative. 

As a Christian, we are meant to “season” or help “preserve” God’s word to the world.  We are not to be too strong, like “Hell, Fire and Brimstone” scaring a person into salvation.  At times being too strong may turn people away from God’s word.  If we come across as “wimps”, then we do not get the respect that is needed to bring the lost to the Lord! It is just like seasoning your food, just a little dab will do you!  Not too much and not too little!  In order to know the right amount of “salt” that is needed for the job the Lord has sent you to do, you need to be in prayer and in His word!  This will give you the right “measure” that is needed for your job.

When we use salt as a preservative (a substance added to prevent deterioration) we are “saving” God’s word.  As Christians we are supposed to preserve God’s word.  We should be the seasoning that is helping this wicked world turn to God.  We should add just the right amount of flavor that is needed to bring salvation to the lost.

Remember not to over season your work.  You will never be able to “take away” the season.  The flavoring will be destroyed.  Only the Holy Spirit and show you just how much to add at the right time.

Prayer: Father, we know that it is important for us to be the “salt of this world”.  Please help us to know the right time to season and how to season!  We only want to be used by your measures and not our own.  Help us as preservers of your word.  May we be in your will in everything we say and do. Amen!

GOD USES BROKEN EGGS

 Serving up joy!

Deb Rehder & Sunny Rowe

Wow! Busy Summer months, with all the grand children over. Lots of noise, laughter and messes. Nothing says "this house is loved" more than being lived in and loved. This doesn't seem the time for soups or stews, does it? Or does it? I made a pot of soup last week, and my grandsons made their way through it very quickly. They welcomed the change in menu from grilling. And after a day of swimming and romping in the pool, they were ready to welcome the good soup to fill their chilled cores.

BAY (LAUREL) LEAF

Which brings us to a wonderful herb for soups and stews, the pungent, fragrant Bay (Mediterranean Laurel)Leaf. The leaves are most often used whole and removed before serving. If a cook uses ground bay leaves, it is best to use an infuser or muslin sack, as the leaves do not break down well. You may be able to find finely powdered bay leaves, but the strength and fragrance will be nullified once removed from the jar. As with most herbs, it's the fragrance that hits our senses first, before taste hits our pallets.

Bay leaves are good for us! They have many properties that make them useful for treating high blood sugar, migraine headaches, bacterial and fungal infections and gastric ulcers.  Use bay leaves to keep away pests. Place whole leaves over pantry shelves to repel meal moths, flies, roaches and silverfish!  

EASY CAJUN JUMBALAYA 

 

2 tsp. Olive Oil

2 Chicken Breasts - boneless, skinless, cut into bite size pieces

8 Oz. Kielbasa - diced

1 Onion - diced

1 Bell Pepper - diced

1/2 C. Celery - diced

1/4 tsp. Cayenne Pepper

1/2 tsp. Onion Powder

Salt & Pepper to taste

2 Cups White Rice - uncooked

4 Cups Chicken Stock

3 BAY LEAVES

2 tsp. Worcestershire Sauce

1 tsp. Hot Pepper Sauce

Heat oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Saute chicken and kielbasa until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in onion, bell pepper, celery and garlic. Season with cayenne, onion powder, salt and pepper. Cook 5 minutes, or until onion is tender and translucent. Add rice, then stir in chicken stock and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 minutes, or until rice is tender. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and hot pepper sauce. Remove bay leaves before serving.

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FIXING THE BROKEN

For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. Hebrews 6:10

This may seem odd, however, now a days when I think of "soup"; I think of service!  Maybe it's because for the past few years I have been blessed to serve in "soup kitchens" for those in need.  What a humbling experience to be able to share 2 -4 hours of your life to those in need.  The ones who are really down and out and have a humble spirit!  To hear their stories of "how" they come to be in that position.  They are no different than you and I.  I walk away feeling so blessed and thankful for the life God has given me!  Sometimes we take what we have for granted!  We are very spoiled and believe we deserve EVERYTHING and more!

Jesus tells us in Matthew 25:40; The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'  I believe we need to have the heart of Jesus!  Jesus came as a servant.  He didn't have people wait on Him!  He waited and served others.  When we allow our hearts to take on the servant heart of Christ, we will be able to serve others.  I pray this week as we celebrate our countries birth, you will find time to have a "heart" of Christ.  Find a way you and your family could serve the needy!  It's wonderful when families serve together.  When you get home, set aside some time to discuss what each family member got out of being a servant.  You'd be surprised at the answers from children.  They really are blessed and appreciate what they have after serving! 

Prayer:  Father God, we thank you for your son Jesus!  He was the perfect role model for a servant!  He truly came to serve!  We are so thankful for what we have.  The small things we take for granted.  Lord I pray you bless each person this week.  Open their eyes to those in need around them.  Help them to have the mind of Christ and to become "servants" to those in need.  May you bless your children this week Lord!  And Lord we thank you that we live in a country that we are free to talk about you and your wonderful mercies!  May we not take this for granted! In Jesus name we pray!  Amen!

GOD USES BROKEN EGGS!

by

Deb Rehder & Sunny Rowe

 

We are trying out a new format! That's the fun part of blogging. You get to do what you feel like doing (as long as you stay in the lines when you are coloring!)

This is the beginning of our herb adventure!

If you read yesterday's blog, you will remember that we are going to delve into herbs, with the hopes that restaurant ordering, as well as cooking at home can be upped a notch. After this, we are considering doing nuts and grains. Preps for gluten free and diabetic diets .. everything good for each individual body. So let's get cooking!

MINT

 

 

Mint leaf, fresh or dried, is the culinary source of mint. Fresh mint is usually preferred over dried mint when storage of the mint is not a problem. The leaves have a pleasant warm, fresh, aromatic, sweet flavor with a cool aftertaste. Mint leaves are used in teas, beverages, jellies, syrups, candies, and ice creams and meat dishes (lamb). It is extensively used as flavorings in breath fresheners, drinks, mouth washes, toothpaste, chewing gum, candy and desserts. It is also used in some alcoholic drinks such as Creme de Menthe or Mojitos.

Mint has been favored over the years for healing stomach ailments and headaches. It is also the main aromatic ingredient in menthol (such as Vicks Vapo Rub), and is used in menthol cigarettes because it cools the throat and hides the bitter taste of the tobacco. Sugared mint leaves were a pleasant way to end meals in the past, as a sweet breath freshner and digestive aid.

Mint oil is also used as a "green" approach to kill some common pests like wasps, hornets, ants and cockroaches.

 

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THIN MINT CRACKERS

1 lb. Semi-Sweet Chocolate

80 Buttery Thin Crackers *

1/2 tsp. Mint Extract

* You may use gluten free crackers.

In double boiler melt the chocolate over hot tap water for 15-20 minutes until melted; stir to keep it smooth. Do not cook; do not get water in the chocolate. Dip crackers in the chocolate and place on tray covered in waxed paper and put in freezer. In about 30 minutes take the cookies out and package in candy cups. These are best if kept at room temperature, or a cool dry place away from odors.

 

These taste just like the Girl Scout Thin Mint Cookies!

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FIXING THE BROKEN

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.

                                                                                     Psalm 91:1-2

Have you ever been woken by a horrible nightmare as a child?  Hope MacDonald wrote about her grandchild spending the weekend with her.  He had been dreaming of goblins and other childhood terrors.  After she got him quieted down, he showed her a worn and tattered Bible that was given to him by his grandfather.  He told her that he kept the Bible under his pillow at night.  It made him feel like he was sleeping with Jesus.

What is your nightmare?  Do you find yourself afraid to even go to sleep at night because you have fear all around you?  I asked you to read Psalm 91 yesterday and to pick out a verse that resonated in your heart.  Verses 1 and 2 are a sure comfort for those of us who have had restless nights!  When we find ourselves walking the floors in the wee hours of the night, where have we hid our Bibles to scare away our demons?  Pull them out and read Psalm 91 and rest in the arms of the Almighty God.  Trust in Him and all our "nightly demons" will fade away.  That is where He wants us, in His arms safe and secure!

Prayer: Father God, even as adults we have fear in the night.  We lay our fears at your feet and cast them away from our thoughts.  We want to dwell in your shelter. We know you will protect us from all evil.  You are our refuge and our strength in our time of trouble.  Thank you for giving us protection and for loving us.  Thank you for being there when we scream out in the middle of the night! AMEN!

GOD USES BROKEN EGGS

HERBS! We hear this word very often these days. It evokes thoughts of exotic, far away places - all available at our fingertips! Go to your favorite restaurant and you can see a new herb entering your platter with the regular food. How often do you wonder what the taste is, why the herb has been used, or what you might expect having a certain herb in your food. I have, and because (for example) I overused Rosemary in cooking an entre a few years back (which resulted in the dish tasting like dirt - it had to be thrown out, no saving it), I hesitate to "pay to explore". 

Previously, we could see only few Indian herbs like coriander, mint etc. seasoning the dish. But in recent years names like Oregano, Basil and Parsley are also gaining popularity. Have you ever tried to know what HERB actually means? A herb is a plant that is valued for flavor, scent, medicinal or other qualities. Herbs are used in cooking, as medicines, and for spiritual purposes. [ideas, thoughts and input collaborated and shared with Farmlands of Exotic Awesomeness blog]

We hope this brief course on herb study will let you order in a restaurant with ease, as well as spice up your life a bit!

Deb Rehder & Sunny Rowe

The Bible mentions many plants, fruits, sweets and breads. Before we continue with traditional recipes, I would like to introduce you to many of the herbs available to us, explaining their taste, use and how to use them. These are plants which the Lord has given us for our pleasure and our well being. I hope you enjoy our adventure of exploration.

COMMON RESTAURANT HERBS

(Listed reading left to right)

Mint

Bay Leaves

Rosemary

Basil

Purple Basil

Oregano

Dill

Cilantro

Thyme

Taragon

Chives'Chervil

Italian Parsley

Sage

Marjoram

 

These are the herbs we will begin with, as they are the most common you will see in restaurants, and are readily available. We will study each one, and include a recipe for each of these. Then we will move to some more exotic herbs, and spices.

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FIXING THE BROKEN

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.

Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see—
how good God is.  Blessed are you who run to him. (message) Psalm 34:8 

A while back my sister posted this verse on Facebook and got an odd reply back from her granddaughter.  She typed one word..."taste"?  It's kind of amusing coming from a child when they ask “What does that mean? Do we really “taste” God??  They cannot comprehend what the word is saying.  How about you?  Have you tasted God’s word lately? 

Sunny listed some herbs above and I find it interesting to explore the many ways the Lord shares with us in His word.  God’s word is full of real life stories with real life people like you and me.  God uses these ordinary men and women to show us extraordinary things.  Sometimes we have to read the chapters over and over before we can grasp what the Holy Spirit is trying to convey to our spirit.  There have been times I would read a story in the Bible over and over again and then one day the words will take on a whole new meaning for me.

As Sunny takes us on a journey with “herbs”; I’d like to show you how to “taste” God’s word and apply them to your life.  We will start with Psalm 91.  Read this Psalm today and think about a verse or two that stand out from any of the others.  We will be discussing this chapter for a bit and see if you can “taste” the Lord and watch this chapter come alive in your life!

 

Psalm 91

1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High

    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a]

2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,

    my God, in whom I trust.”

 3 Surely he will save you

    from the fowler’s snare

    and from the deadly pestilence.

4 He will cover you with his feathers,

    and under his wings you will find refuge;

    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

5 You will not fear the terror of night,

    nor the arrow that flies by day,

6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,

    nor the plague that destroys at midday.

7 A thousand may fall at your side,

    ten thousand at your right hand,

    but it will not come near you.

8 You will only observe with your eyes

    and see the punishment of the wicked.

9 If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”

    and you make the Most High your dwelling,

10 no harm will overtake you,

    no disaster will come near your tent.

11 For he will command his angels concerning you

    to guard you in all your ways;

12 they will lift you up in their hands,

    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra;

    you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

14 “Because he[b] loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;

    I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

15 He will call on me, and I will answer him;

    I will be with him in trouble,

    I will deliver him and honor him.

16 With long life I will satisfy him

    and show him my salvation. ”

GOD USES BROKEN EGGS

 

 

What a great start to the summer... visiting family, swimming, laughing and just enjoying family and friends. As the summer wears on, we often find it wearing on our nerves. We can take time to refresh ourselves throughout these summer months, by getting before the Lord and resting... waiting upon Him.

It is a "toothsome" time in our lives, a time for building tons of memories. I hope you will find today's recipe (one of my favorites) as delightful as I do. It is, after all it is a time for creating those sweet, sweet memories!

Deb Rehder & Sunny Rowe

COCONUT CREAM CAKE

1 Pkg. White Cake Mix *

3 Eggs BROKEN *

1/3 Cup Vegetable Oil *

1/2 tsp. Coconut Extract

1 14oz. Can Coconut Cream

1 14oz. Can Sweetened Condensed Milk *

1 Cup Heavy Whipping Cream *

1 Tbsp. White Sugar *

1 Cup Angel Flake Coconut

 

* These items may be substituted out for less fat, gluten free, etc. with: Gluten Free Cake Mix, Egg Beaters, Plain unsweetened apple sauce (instead of vegetable oil), Fat Free sweetened condensed milk, fat free or sugar free cool whip. Do NOT use the coconut cream used for alcoholic drinks (which list sugar as the first ingredient). You want the rich coconut cream.

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan, or (2) 9" round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together cake mix, eggs, oil, water and coconut flavoring. Beat for 2 minutes and pour into pan(s). Bake for 30 minutes (13x9) or 20 minutes (9" rounds) - or - until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Note: If you are baking and assembling rounds, you will need to double the whipped cream and coconut. In a medium bowl, combine coconut cream with sweetened condensed milk and stir until smooth. When cake comes out of the oven, poke holes into it in even rows using a large fork or chopsticks. Pour milk mixture over, allowing it to soak into the cake. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

 

Just before serving:  In a large bowl, whisk cream until soft peaks form. Add sugar and continue whipping until stiff. Spread over cooled cake. Sprinkle top with flaked coconut. With rounds assemble cake on place with whipped cream in the middle as filling, generously sprinkled with the coconut.

Imagination:  For the summer months I love to take this recipe, and instead of the baking of the cake use a store bought angel food cake mix. Use the coconut cream to make up vanilla pudding (omit the sweetened condensed milk) and use chop sticks to make holes in the cake. Cover and refrigerate until all it set. Pop the whipped cream and coconut on top!  5 minutes to put together, and no heat in the kitchen. Not as rich with the substitutes, but still yummy!

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Fixing the Broken

..but those who hope in the Lord
    will renew their strength. 
They will soar on wings like eagles; 
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

 I absolutely love this verse!  I sometimes forget what it is like to wait or hope in the Lord.  If you are in a "waiting" season in your life... do not fret.  You are not alone!  I too sit among you along with thousands of others!  We live in such a fast pace of life that we want our answers NOW!  I know I'm not saying anything new... I just want to gently remind you as God has reminded me lately.  Through this time He has us waiting... He is busy working on the PLAN He has for us.  He is preparing our spirit man to be ready to receive the wonderful gifts He has instore for us.

I believe this time is also so hard because our "flesh man" wants to be in control, and God is chiseling away his power.  Strength renewed by God can only come when we've allowed our spirit to rest on Him and not allow the flesh to guide us.  So, as I am going through my "waiting" period, I am trying to stay in God's word.  Be still, allow Him to speak to my spirit.  And yes, I do get impatient.  But don't we all.  But a gentle reminder in the scriptures telling us to wait upon Him, is a comforting thing.

Dear God, please forgive me when I get impatient and try to do things on my own.  I want to wait upon you today Lord.  I can't wait to spread my wings and soar as I walk with you!  Amen!

GOD USES BROKEN EGGS

Lot's of graduation celebrations still going on this week. What a joyous time, and what a crunch it can be to the food budget with lots of extra hungry tummies. I found this recipe, which I first tried in my mother's kitchen in 1954. It was a hit, and it's easy to get things together ahead of time. You can fill their plates up with crispy green salad and these all in one hot sandwiches.

Give yourself time to enjoy the moments. They are here and gone. Here's a way not to spend your whole days in the kitchen - or your whole wallet for take-out or restaurants.

I hope you enjoy this as much as my family did way back when!

Deb Rehder & Sunny Rowe

MEATLOAF IN A FRENCH LOAF

1 Loaf French Bread

1 Can Canned Evaporated Milk

1 lb. Ground Beef (90/10)

1/4 Cup Dried Chopped Onion (or 1 small fresh minced)

1 Small Green or Red Pepper (finely chopped)

1 Egg BROKEN (slightly beaten)

1 tsp. Sugar

1 Cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)

Salt & Pepper

Tomato Soup, Catsup or Bar-B-Que Sauce

 

Cut thin lengthwise slice from top of loaf of bread. Carefully scoop out as much of inside of loaf a possible.  In a large bowl, break up 2 cups of the bread, then soak in the evaporated milk for about 10 minutes. Add egg, vegetables, sugar, ground beef, salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly with hands, or spoon.

 

Place loaf on baking sheet. Fill the loaf with the meat mixture, packing firmly and evenly. Do not overfill. Glaze the top of the loaf with your choice of the soup, catsup or bar-b-que sauce. 

Bake 350 degrees for 1 hour. Remove from oven and top with cheddar cheese. Add top crust. Return to oven and bake additional 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Slice as you would bread into 6-8 pieces.

Imagination: Substitute burger with ground turkey or chicken. Place Bread & Butter Pickles on top of loaf before the cheese. Try some Worchestershsire sauce in the meat. 

 

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FIXING THE BROKEN 

TODAY I WANT TO SHARE MY FB POST ABOUT 

OUR AMAZING GRANDSON 

RYAN JASON ROWE 11 

WHO GRADUATED FROM HIGH SCHOOL LAST NITE..

IN SPITE OF ALL ODDS AGAINST HIM! RY IS AUTISTIC.

HE NOT ONLY GRADUATED HIGH SCHOOL, BUT RIGHT ON SCHEDULE!

NEXT, HE WILL CONQUER 4 YEARS ADVANCED EDUCATION.

LAST NIGHT HE SHARED WITH ME THAT HE IS NOW A MAN, AND IS NOW

BEGINNING HIS "MAN LIFE".  

From Facebook: "This is our beautiful Ry. What I especially loved about the graduation were the young graduates who came to him, shook his hand and congratulated him. The ready acceptance was so visible, and I can't help but feel Ry had a huge support factor from some of the other students. Thank you Lord for this day, for Ry, for his parents who are incredible beyond belief. Angie baby - you are one rocking Mom - you are an iron butterfly! El Tigre, you are the master papa. And to Ry's brothers - hi5, you are an awesome ensemble. Thank You, Thank You Lord for this gorgeous family. ♥"

 

Psalm 37:25 NLT Once I was young, and now I am old. Yet I have never seen the godly forsaken, nor seen their children begging for bread.

RYAN JASON ROWE II

 

GOD USES BROKEN EGGS

Keeping with things English this week, I was struck by this recipe sure to satisfy the heartiest appetite. It evokes pictures of English countrysides, and English Pubs (like the "Stag & Ale" or "The White Rose". Yarbyville, Darbyville, Hunsington, Stratford on Avon, Liecester... all those old English names. The British are unbeatable when it comes to hearty food and lusty appetites!

And don't forget, the All American Apple Pie was first an English treat! So tuck in your bib and belly up to the table for this hearty feast!

The Cackling Hens

Cooking for fun!
Deb Rehder & Sunny Rowe

STEAK & ALE PIE

1/2 Pkg. Puff Pastry - thawed

1 Tbsp. Lard or Butter

1/2 lb. Cubed Beef Steak - round, sirloin

1/2 Cup Carrots - diced or shredded

1/2 Cup Brocoli - chopped

1 Cups Potatoes - peeled and cubed

1/4 Cup Onions - diced

1 Cup Water

1 Cup Ale

1 Tbsp. Cornstarch

1/4 Cup Cold Water

Salt & Pepper

Brown meat in lard/butter in heavy skillet until meat is browned on all sides. Pour into greased 1 quart baking disk. Add Vegetables and mix well. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

In saucepan bring water and ale to boiling. Mix cornstarch into 1/4 cup cold water and mix. Slowly add cornstarch to water/ale mixture. Continue boiling just until mixture thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste. Place puff pastry over the top and trim to fit the casserole.

Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for 50-55 minutes until crust is deeply golden brown. Serve with large spoon! 

Imagination:  I would serve with with wedges of Cheddar, Jarlsberg and Dill Havarti, along with a crisp green salad. I do think you could make this with chicken and white fish. I would use a light beer for the chicken, and a lime beer for the fish.

 

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FIXING THE BROKENESS

From Puffed Pastry to a Puffed up King...

 But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him. (1 Kings 12:8)

King Solomon, (the wisest man on earth) son Rehoboam became king when Solomon died.  He started out doing a wise thing.  Rehoboam sought counsel from the elders who served his father.  However, these were not the words Rehoboam wanted to hear.  So, he sought his own friends for counsel, and because of the bad advice, Israel rebelled against his authority.
It is good to seek godly counsel!  However, when we are seeking our answers, we shouldn't continue to seek until we find the answers we want!  I witnessed a lady in a church years ago who came to me with a question about her life.  We prayed about the situation and she was fine when she left.  As time went on, I saw this lady go to several others in our church with the same situation and they would do the same thing as I had done.  They would pray with her, give her the same advice, then send her on her way.  This lady continued being miserable because she wanted someone to tell her something different. What she was seeking from her church family was the okay to go outside her marriage and commit a sin.  The church family stuck to God's word and wouldn't say it was okay to do these things.  It was the counsel she sought outside the church that drove her away to her fleshly desires.  I am happy to say now, she is back on track, and she admits she wouldn't have had to go through the pain she went through had she listened to the godly counsel.
Father God, please allow us to not follow our flesh desires, but to seek your will and your plans for us through godly people you place in our lives!  Amen!