How to Make Asparagus

Asparagus is a perennial plant that has been used as a vegetable from early times. Asparagus has stout stems with branched, feathery foliage. Only the tender, young shoots are fit for consumption. There are many health benefits as it is a nutritious vegetable, and low in calories. It is also a good source of dietary fibers, vitamins and minerals, and is rich in amino acids. There are a number of ways to cook this crunchy vegetable in different cuisines.

Cooking Asparagus
As mentioned earlier, asparagus is a healthy vegetable that can be added to any recipe. Here are a few simple steps on how to prepare asparagus:

• Wash the stalks in water, so that all the remaining soil on the tips, get washed away. Break the stalks into two and throw away the bottom pieces.
• An easy method is to cook them in boiled water. Take a medium-sized sauce pan and boil water with some salt.
• Cook the spears in boiling water for about 5 minutes and immediately rinse the spears in cold water to prevent them from overcooking. This will retain their color and crunchy feel.

In the Oven
Baking is another method to cook it. To make this vegetable more delicious, you can add seasonings of your choice. Given below are a few quick steps to bake asparagus in the oven:

• Spread the spears on a baking sheet.
• Drizzle two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil will enhance the nutritional value and taste of the asparagus.
• Sprinkle salt and pepper as required. You can use garlic salt instead of standard salt, to enhance the flavor.
• Cook for about 15 minutes in a preheated oven at 175 C.

Pan-fried Asparagus
Pan frying asparagus is one of the best ways to retain the taste and crispiness of this vegetable. Follow these easy steps.

• Rinse and dry the asparagus spears and cut off the base of each stalk. Pour olive oil in a medium heated pan and transfer the spears.
• Add salt (or garlic salt as per your preference), pepper and chili powder and saute it. If you want the asparagus to be soft, then cover the pan to cook asparagus. But if you prefer the stalks to be crispy, stir occasionally without covering the pan.

Grilled Asparagus
Asparagus can be cooked on the stove by grilling it. This method makes the vegetable crunchy, which also has a distinct flavor.

• Tie washed asparagus into a bundle with a piece of string and stand it in a saucepan filled with water.
• Boil for about 5 minutes and rinse it immediately in cold water, to prevent it from overcooking.
• In a bowl, mix four tablespoons of olive oil, two tablespoons of lemon juice, pepper and salt to taste and coat the asparagus in this dressing.
• Grill on a hot griddle for about 10 minutes, till the vegetable is cooked completely.

Asparagus With Herb Butter
To make asparagus with herb butter, you'll need herbs like parsley, thyme and tarragon. Here are some instructions, that are quite easy, to cook asparagus.

• Mix chopped herbs, pepper, garlic powder, salt and butter, and blend them together in a bowl.
• Cook the asparagus in boiling water for about 5 minutes till the stalks are firm. Remove them from boiling water and immediately transfer to ice water.
• In a baking dish, transfer the asparagus and add the herb-butter topping, and bake it in a preheated oven at 175 C for about 10 minutes or till the butter melts.

You can even come up with your own method to make asparagus, as it is easy to cook. Try new recipes with asparagus and delight your taste buds.

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Grilled Chicken Calories

Grilled chicken is a better option for health conscious people who love it for its finger licking flavor. Chicken is grilled after marinating and seasoning with different herbs and spices. It is slowly roasted to juicy perfection. Calories obtained from grilled chicken are suitable for a low calorie diet as it contains less fat and sodium. Chicken being a nutritious food, it is included in both a muscle building diet and a weight loss diet.

Chicken is considered as staple food and it is loved by all, children and elderly. It is packed with proteins which are good for muscle building. Chicken, in any form keeps you satiated for a longer period of time. Innovative chicken recipes are always searched by people. Hundreds of ingredients can be used to marinate chicken before grilling. For instance, oil, vinegar, ketchup, seasonings, citric acid, garlic, cumin, oregano, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, mustard, orange peel and juice, thyme, etc. Or grilled chicken can be topped in various manners. For example, grilled chicken topped with mushrooms and cheese, topped with a relish of corn kernels, black beans, tomatoes, avocados, cilantro, etc. You can get it served on greens with fruits, feta cheese with a blackberry vinaigrette dressing. Grilled chicken calories will be different in each case.

Calories in Grilled Chicken

Chicken breast, wings, drumsticks, thighs, etc. are grilled and each piece will contain different number of calories. I hope you know how long to grill chicken breast. Grilled chicken calories may vary according to the chicken part, serving size, ingredients and method of preparation. The calorie count will also depend upon the type of chicken, whether it is lean, without skin, boneless or with bones, skin etc.

• Grilled Chicken Breast, Grilled Without Skin, Eat Meat Only -
  Large portion, 150 gm - 222 calories,
  Med portion, 130 gm - 192 calories,
  Small portion, 100 gm - 148 calories.
• One Ounce Mesquite Grilled Chicken - 36 calories
  31 calories from Chicken Breast, no skin and 5 calories from mesquite marinade (0.19 tbsp)
• Grilled Chicken Breast - 355 gm - 320 calories
• Grilled Wings - 37 gm - 80 calories
• Grilled Drumstick, - 42 gm - 70 calories
• Grilled Thigh - 71 gm - 150 calories

Calories in Parts of Chicken

3.5 oz (100 gr) Raw Chicken (broilers or fryers) Calorie Count:

• Breast: 110 calories, 170 calories with skin
• Drumstick: 119 calories, 161 calories with skin
• Thigh: 119 calories, 211 calories with skin
• Leg: 120 calories, 187 calories with skin
• Giblet: 124 calories
• Dark meat: 125 calories, 237 calories with skin
• Wing: 126 calories, 237 with skin
• Back: 137 calories, 319 with skin

You must have noticed that there is quite a difference between the calories obtained from various chicken parts. Chicken without skin contains less calories; while chicken with skin is high in calories. The skin offers a lot of calories because it is packed with fat. If you wish to cut down on the calories in chicken, skin should be removed.

Grilling a chicken is always healthier and better option than frying it. Most people include chicken in their regular diet. So it is important to know all about the nutrition facts and calories in chicken. The information can be helpful in maintaining your daily calorie intake and weight.

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Trussing a Chicken

Trussing is a process where the wings and legs of the chicken or turkey are tied before roasting. This process helps in keeping the wings and legs, as well as the stuffing at place while roasting. Trussing is usually done with an ordinary string or thread which has to be removed after roasting. Following are methods on trussing chicken with and without strings.

How to Truss a Chicken

Before going for the actual trussing, you need to remove the giblets from the cavity and set them aside. Secondly, you need to wash the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry. Now, stuff the chicken with your favorite stuffing, or with that required for the particular chicken recipe.

• The bird should be placed on its back, with its wings tucked under it.
• Now take a string that is 5 times the total length of the chicken. The middle of the string should be placed exactly under the tail.
• Now, bring both the sides of the string up, cross over the tail and wrap at the ends of the drumsticks.
• Pull the strings together to draw the legs of the chicken closer and cross to hold it securely.
• Flipping the bird over, pull the strings over the thighs and wrap around the upper part of wings.
• Bring both the wings closer and wrap them close to the body.
• Lastly, if you have a wish to tie the flap of skin around the neck, you can fold it with string and tie on the top.

Trussing a Chicken Without String

Following is the method used to truss chicken without string. The initial process of cleaning and stuffing should also be carried out here.

• The chicken should be placed on the table such that the breast should be down and the back should be facing you.
• Next, fold each wing of the chicken backwards. Tips of the wings should be placed next to the body.
• These tips should be placed securely in the skin with the help of skewers. It is recommended to go for steel skewers as they are stronger than their counterparts.
• A single skewer should be inserted through both the legs to hold them together.
• Lastly, the flab around the neck should be pushed through the opening of the body and held in place with the help of a skewer.

When the chicken is trussed, it takes longer time to cook the dark meat properly. After roasting for prescribed time, you need to check the temperature of the dark meat to be sure whether it is properly cooked or not. However, a finely trussed chicken helps in keeping the stuffing and the bird in proper place.

Once you learn the basic method of trussing the bird, you can practice to achieve perfection. With some practice, you are sure to succeed. Good luck!

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Side Dishes for Fish

Fish is one of the most satisfying and healthy options to serve as the main course. Unlike poultry or meat, a main course consisting of fish is seldom laden with fat and calories. But one common problem that many home cooks face is what side dishes to pair with fish. Selecting the appropriate side dish for fish is very important if you want the menu to be well-balanced and harmonized. Fish preparations can be both - delicately flavored or super spicy. So the kind of side dish you pair the fish with will depend on the kind of cuisine you are going for. For Asian fish recipes cooked with spices, the best side dishes will be a salad with a tart dressing. For Mediterranean fish recipes, good side dishes will include sauted vegetables or braised mushrooms. Always remember that the side dishes should complement the flavor and texture of the main course and should in no way overpower the fish preparation.

Side Dishes for Grilled Fish
Sweet Potato Slaw

Ingredients

• Radish, 6 (julienned)
• Green onions, 4 (sliced thinly)
• Celery stalks, 2 (diced)
• Apple, 1 (cored and julienned)
• Sweet potato, 1 (peeled and julienned)
• Cilantro, 1 handful (fresh, chopped)
• Sesame seeds, cup (toasted)
• Lime juice, 2 tablespoons
• Olive oil, 2 tablespoons
• Red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon
• Ginger, teaspoon (ground)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method
In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, ground ginger, salt, and pepper together. Keep it aside. In a large bowl, add the julienned radish, sliced green onions, celery, apple, and sweet potato. Next, add the toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro. Drizzle with the dressing and toss till everything is well coated.
Peach and Pepper Salsa

Ingredients

• Red bell pepper, 1 (large, finely chopped)
• Habanero pepper, 1 (finely chopped)
• Garlic clove, 1 (finely chopped)
• Yellow peaches, 2 cup (coarsely chopped)
• Spring onions, cup (thinly sliced)
• Fresh coriander, cup (chopped)
• Lemon juice, cup (freshly squeezed)
• Fresh oregano, 2 tablespoons (chopped)
• Salt, teaspoon

Method
To make this tasty side dish, combine the chopped peaches with sliced spring onions, chopped red bell pepper, oregano, habanero pepper, chopped coriander, garlic, lemon, juice and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Toss everything well and check seasoning. Add more salt if required. Cover the bowl with a cling film and refrigerate for 3-4 hours. This will allow the flavors to fuse, giving you a spicy and sweet homemade salsa that goes very well with grilled fish.
Brussels Sprouts with Fried Capers

Ingredients

• Anchovy fillets, 3 (finely chopped)
• Garlic cloves, 2 (finely chopped)
• Brussels sprouts, 3 cups (trimmed and halved)
• Capers, cup (drained)
• Extra virgin olive oil, cup
• Lemon juice, 4 tablespoons
• Red chili flakes, teaspoon

Method
Cook Brussels sprouts in a pot of boiling water until it is tender. Drain from water and keep them aside. In a small skillet, fry the capers in the olive oil until they are brown and a little crisp. Remove caper from the skillet and keep it aside. Now add in the chopped anchovy and garlic into the oil and then pour in the steamed Brussels sprouts. Add the fried capers and season with salt, lemon juice, and chili flakes and cook for a few minutes. Serve this tasty side dish with grilled fish.
Side Dishes for Fried Fish
Cucumber Sambol

Ingredients

• Cucumber, 1 (peeled and finely diced)
• Onion, 1 (finely diced)
• Jalapeo pepper, 1 (finely chopped)
• Vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons
• Shrimp, 1 tablespoon (dried, ground)
• Lime juice, 1 tablespoon
• Sugar, teaspoon
• Salt, to taste

Method
In a medium-sized bowl, add the diced cucumber, onion, and pepper. Heat the oil in a small saucepan. Add the dried shrimp and fry until golden. Remove from heat and pour the fried shrimp and oil over the cucumber mixture. Add salt, sugar, and lime juice and toss well. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Fried Chips with Tartar

Ingredients

• Dsire potatoes, 4 (par-cooked)
• Garlic clove, 1 (finely chopped)
• Mayonnaise, cup
• Lemon juice, 2 tablespoons
• Parsley, 2 tablespoons (chopped)
• Gherkins, 1 tablespoon (chopped)
• Lemon zest, 1 teaspoon
• Capers, 1 teaspoon (chopped)
• Sea salt, teaspoon

Method
Cut the parboiled potatoes into small wedges and then deep-fry them in vegetable oil. When the chips are a bit crunchy and golden-brown in color, remove from the deep fryer and place them on paper napkins. Sprinkle them with sea salt and keep them aside.

To make the homemade tartar sauce, combine the mayonnaise with garlic, chopped gherkins and capers, parsley, salt, and lemon juice. Mix everything well with a spoon and serve with the fried chips. This is a classic side dish for fried fish that is very tasty. You can even make oven-roasted potatoes instead of fried chips.

Nc mm pha

Ingredients

• Jalapeo, 1 (thinly sliced)
• Fish sauce, cup
• Lime juice, cup
• Sugar, cup

Method
Combine the fish sauce along with lime juice, jalapeo, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir this mixture with a whisk or spoon, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Serve this spicy and tangy dipping sauce with fried fish or any Asia-inspired fish recipe.
Side Dishes for Fish Tacos
Blanched Cabbage with Nigella Seeds

Ingredients

• Green cabbage, 1 (outer leaves discarded)
• Butter, 4 tablespoons
• Nigella seeds, 1 tablespoon
• Celery seeds, teaspoon
• Black pepper, teaspoon (freshly ground)
• Salt, to taste

Method
Heat a pot of water and let the water come to a boil. Add a bit of salt to the water. Cut the cabbage into quarters and discard the core. Next, cut the cabbage into large pieces. Add the cabbage into the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain the water from cabbage and transfer cabbage to a large bowl. Add butter and sprinkle with nigella seeds, celery seeds, and black pepper. Toss to combine.
Marinated Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients

• Garlic, 2 cloves (finely chopped)
• Cherry tomatoes, 2 cups
• Extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons
• Parsley, 2 tablespoons (fresh, chopped)
• Basil, 2 tablespoons (fresh, chopped)
• Thyme, 2 teaspoons (fresh, chopped)
• Sea salt, 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper, teaspoon (freshly ground)

Method
In a small saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil and add the garlic. When the garlic becomes translucent, add the whole cherry tomatoes and reduce the heat. Next, add the sea salt, pepper, thyme, and basil and cook the tomatoes for 5-6 minutes until their skin begins to crack. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the tomatoes and serve with fish tacos.
Green Mango Salad

Ingredients

• Red chillies, 2 (finely chopped)
• Green mango, 1
• Shallot, 1 (large, thinly sliced)
• Lime juice, yield of 1 lime
• Peanuts, cup (roasted)
• Cilantro, 2 tablespoons (chopped)
• Fish sauce, 2 tablespoons
• Shrimp, 1 tablespoons (dried)
• Sugar, 1 tablespoon

Method
Peel the green mango and cut it into thin slices. Next julienne the slices of mango. Keep this aside. If you have a Japanese mandolin, you can use it for making mango juliennes.

In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar and mix them until all the sugar granules have dissolved. In a mortar, add the sliced shallots, dried shrimp, chilies, and roasted peanuts. Grind them with the pestle until you have a coarse mixture. Make sure that you do not pulverize the mixture too much. Now add this mixture to the julienned mango. Next, add the dressing of fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice. Combine everything with a slotted spoon and your green mango salad is ready.
Preparing a tasty side dish to accompany a fish-based main course is not difficult. You just have to make sure that the flavors pair well with the fish preparation.

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Chicken Cacciatore Recipes

When there is a party being planned or a dinner for the weekend, you must have always had this feeling of wanting to whip up some scrumptious dishes with a different touch. The other day, I was casually mentioning this to a friend and she tipped me about chicken cacciatore. I honestly was not aware of this dish and was delighted to discover something new. Cacciatore is an Italian word that means hunter. Generally, meals that fall under the category of cacciatore are prepared with onions, tomatoes, bell pepper and some selective herbs. Wine is also an added to such dishes at times. Here, I have given some exclusive recipes to bring about a difference to the way you cook chicken.

Recipe 1

Ingredients
Chicken thighs (4)
All-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
Onion - chopped (1)
Dry white wine (3/4 cup)
Drained capers (3 tablespoons)
Dried oregano leaves (1-1/2 teaspoons)
Coarsely chopped basil leaves (1/4 cup)
Large red bell pepper - chopped (1)
Chicken breasts - with skin and backbone (2)
Salt (2 teaspoons)
Garlic cloves - finely chopped (3)
Reduced-sodium chicken broth (3/4 cup)
Diced tomatoes with juice - (One 28-ounce can)
Freshly ground black pepper (1 teaspoon)

Preparation
First you would need to sprinkle around 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper over the chicken pieces. Then, cover these pieces with a light coating of flour. Meanwhile, heat some oil in large pan over medium-high heat and place the pieces in the pan. Cook till they turn a light shade of brown on both the sides. Then, transfer to a plate and place it aside. Next, add the garlic, bell pepper and onion to the same pan and cook it over medium heat till the onion becomes tender. Use some salt and pepper for seasoning. Now, you need to add the wine and let it simmer for around 3 minutes. Next are the tomatoes with the juice. Along with this, add some of the broth with oregano and capers. Place the chicken pieces back in the pan. Let it simmer for a while over medium-low heat and let it get cooked evenly. Once done, transfer the chicken pieces to a plate. Continue boiling the sauce and let it thicken for about 3 minutes. Use this sauce to cover the pieces. Sprinkle with the chopped fresh basil leaves. Serve hot!

Recipe 2

Ingredients
Olive oil (1/2 cup)
Onion (1 medium)
Port wine (1/4 cup)
Salt (1 teaspoon)
Chicken tenders (8)
Medium clove minced garlic (1)
Tomato paste (1/2 of a 6 oz can)
Fresh basil leaves (3-large-optional)

Preparation
Chop the onion and cook it in oil for 10 minutes on low heat. Then, add the tomato paste with the garlic and basil. Pour the wine and add some salt to taste. Boil these ingredients and reduce the heat. Meanwhile bake the chicken at 350 F for around 20 minutes. Then cut it into pieces and place in a bowl. Pour the sauce over it since it lends a delicious flavor. Add the basil leaves over it for garnish.

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Tamarind Sauce

Tamarind is used to refer to seed pods having a fleshy pulp inside and also, the large tropical evergreen tree that bears the fruit. The unripe pods have greenish brown skin with a tough, whitish-colored flesh. At ripened stage, the skin and the pulp inside turn brownish in color. You can easily separate the outer covering of ripened tamarind seed pods. Both the green and ripe tamarind can be eaten, though most people find the unripe ones very sour.

The ripened tamarind fruit taste is something very unique; you will find it sweet and sour. After adding salt or sugar, you can consume the fruit alone (either in raw or cooked form). For easy usage in food recipes and storage purposes, tamarind fruits are processed in the form of sauces, pulps, pastes, jellies, etc. All these variants are sold in food stores and grocery centers. You can also try making tamarind sauce at home by using fresh ripened fruits. Except for removal of seeds, the sauce recipe is very simple.

What is Tamarind Sauce?

As per food data, tamarind fruit production is highest in India. Consequently, consumption rate of tamarind fruit and its products is high in India and Thailand. No wonder tamarind sauce is widely used in Asian food recipes. For replacing this sauce, the substitute is made by combining lime juice with sugar. Given below is some information about tamarind sauce, which you may find interesting.

Calories in Tamarind Sauce
Health conscious people are very concerned about the nutritional value of tamarind sauce. Needless to say, calories in this condiment varies according to the ingredients used in making the sauce. The more sugar you add, the higher will be the calorie count. Two tablespoons (30 g) serving of typical tamarind sauce provide 50 calories. Out of this, fat content accounts to 14 calories.

Ingredients of Tamarind Sauce
You can select the ingredients for making tamarind sauce according to your taste and liking. As per your taste, you can make it plain by using only sugar, water and preservative ingredients. For flavorful sauce, you need culinary herbs and spices, like onion, ginger, garlic, nutmeg and cinnamon. For the liquid part, vegetable broth, chicken broth and red wine are popularly used in this sauce.

Making Tamarind Sauce
So, you want to know how to make tamarind sauce? For making regular sauce, you need the following ingredients - tamarind pulp (seedless), water, rice wine vinegar, sugar and salt. Take 2 cups water in a saucepan and soak 1 ounce tamarind overnight. Next day, blend it well to separate the pulp part. Strain and discard the fiber portion.

To the tamarind juice, add cup sugar and 1 teaspoon salt. Heat over medium low heat and stir well, so that sugar dissolves completely. Add rice wine vinegar and simmer for 10-15 minutes, while stirring continuously. When the quantity reduces to about half, remove from heat. Your tamarind sauce will resemble a light brown syrup. It can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2 months.

In case of non availability of ripened tamarind fruits, you can use sugar-coated tamarind candies. The only trick is to use appropriate quantity of candies to bring out the taste of tamarind. Regarding tamarind sauce usage, it can be added in nearly all types of dishes. Deep-fried fish served with a savory tamarind sauce is a special treat for non-vegetarians. So, try preparing tamarind sauce at home, and use it to spice up various dishes.

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Summer Quotes

Summer is awaited by one and all, children and adults, men and women, simply by everyone. It is a season of liveliness, joy, breezy winds and happiness. Summer means swimming, beach picnics, fishing, barbecue parties, etc. It also means beautiful flowers, cute summer dresses, etc. Apart from these, there are some famous sayings that tell us more about this beautiful season. Here are some cute and funny quotes that will bring a sweet smile to your face.

Best Quotes About Summer

A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.
James Dent

And summer's lease hath all too short a date.
William Shakespeare

Summer is the time when one sheds one's tensions with one's clothes, and the right kind of day is jeweled balm for the battered spirit. A few of those days and you can become drunk with the belief that all is right with the world.
Ada Louise Huxtable

Oh, bring again my heart's content,
Thou Spirit of the Summer-time!
William Allingham

Celebrate summer: sun-drenched days and starlit nights.
Gooseberry Patch

There shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart.
Celia Thaxter

I wonder what it would be like to live in a world where it was always June!
L. M. Montgomery

What is one to say about June, the time of perfect young summer, the fulfillment of the promise of the earlier months, and with as yet no sign to remind one that its fresh young beauty will ever fade.
Gertrude Jekyll

The summer night is like a perfection of thought.
Wallace Stevens

In winter I get up at night,
And dress by yellow candle-light.
In summer quite the other way,
I have to go to bed by day.
Robert Louis Stevenson

I like summer. I like warmer weather and long days. I'm one of those silly people who still enjoy lying in the sun!
Danielle Steel

What a beautiful, sunny morning. It makes you happy to be alive, doesn't it? We can't let the sun outshine us! We have to beam, too!
Takayuki Ikkaku

O summer day beside the joyous sea! O summer day so wonderful and white, So full of gladness and so full of pain! Forever and forever shalt thou be. To some, the gravestone of a dead delight, to some, the landmark of a new domain.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Summer Love Quotes

If a June night could talk, it would probably boast it invented romance.
Bern Williams

Summer love... midnight kisses... shooting stars... secret wishes..!!
Anonymous

Summer's filled with breaking the rules, standing apart, ignoring your head, and following your heart!
Anonymous

Love is to the heart what the summer is to the farmer's year, it brings to harvest all the loveliest flowers of the soul!
Anonymous

All we need is the truth in our hand. Someone to call a friend. Never fear the darkness. All we need is just the sun in the sky. And the hope of a summer to come with the meaning of love.
Anonymous

This bud of love, by summer's ripening breath
May prove a beauteous flower next time we meet.
William Shakespeare

A life without love is like a year without summer.
Swedish Proverb

I never promised you a happy ending.
You never said that you wouldn't make me cry
But summer love will keep us warm,
Long after our autumn goodbye!
Anonymous

Love vanquishes time. To lovers, a moment can be eternity, eternity can be the tick of a clock.
Mary Parrish

To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides.
David Viscott

Summer is life, summer is love, summer is joy! It stands for liveliness, rebirth and beauty. Here is one of the most meaningful love quotes about summer:

Love turns winter into summer!

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Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipes

Pulled pork is pork roast made with barbecue sauce, onions and other seasoning. There are different ways of making pulled pork. Slow cooker is one of the best ways of making pulled pork. Using the slow cooker is best suited to make pork. The taste and the flavor of the pork is enhanced in the slow cooker. The meat cooked is tender, although it does take long to cook. We will see the pork recipes now.

Pulled Pork - Slow Cooker Recipes

The beauty of the pulled pork lies in the fact that it has been cooked on low heat for a number of hours, approximately 8 to 9 hours. Cooking the pork for a long period of time over slow heat makes it tender and the meat simply melts in the mouth.

Easy Pulled Pork Slow Cooker Recipe
This is one of the easiest slow cooker pulled pork recipes. Once you make pulled pork using this recipe, your family will keep asking for more.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds boneless pork shoulder blade roast cut into 4 pieces
• 12 soft Ciabatta rolls, warmed
• 1 medium chopped onion
• cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• cup brown sugar
• cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

Method

• In a slow cooker pot put onion, brown sugar, tomato paste, paprika, Worcestershire, mustard, ketchup, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
• Stir well so that all the ingredients are mixed well.
• Add in the pieces of pork to the sauce mixture in the cooker pot.
• Turn the pieces of pork in the sauce till the pieces are well coated with sauce.
• Cover the crock pot with lid, set the cooker on low setting, and cook the pork for 8 to 10 hours, till the pork pieces become tender.
• After the pieces or pork are cooked, remove the pieces into a large bowl.
• Change the setting of the slow cooker to high.
• Cover the pot with lid and heat the sauce till it thickens and reduces a little.
• Till the sauce is boiling, using a fork, pull pork into shreds.
• When the sauce boils, add the shredded pork to the sauce and toss, so that the sauce is combined with the pork shreds.
• Cover crockpot and heat the pork shreds.
• Place a spoon of the pork mixture on the ciabatta rolls.
• Serve it with pickles, potato chips, hot sauce, etc. as per your likings.

BBQ Pulled Pork - Slow Cooker Recipe
One of the best ways of eating meat is barbecue meat. One can make a delicious BBQ even in a slow cooker. Following is a crockpot pulled pork recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 pound pork tenderloin
• 18 ounce bottle of barbecue sauce
• 8 hamburger buns
• 12 fluid ounce can or bottle root beer

Method

• Place the entire piece of pork tenderloin in the slow cooker.
• Pour root beer over pork tenderloin.
• Cover the slow cooker with the lid and let the pork cook on low heat till the pork is well cooked.
• When the pork cooks well it will shred easily
• Depending on how tender the pork tenderloin is, it will take anywhere between 7 to 8 hours to cook well.
• Once the pork is cooked, drain it.
• Shred the pork and then add barbecue sauce to it.
• Place it in the slow cooker again and let it heat a little.
• Split the hamburger buns and lightly toast them.
• Spoon the meat on the buns and serve hot.

These are the two simple variations of pulled pork - slow cooker recipes. You can make alterations to the recipe depending on your liking. When you are making the pork make sure you keep the temperature on low itself. So that the meat is tender and does not dry out. If required, you may add water, however most of the time it is not required.

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Sweet and Sour Sauce

Not only the Chinese but also the North Americans and the Europeans use sweet and sour flavor sauce as a part of their cooking. It is a fact this sauce originated in China. Years back, the people of the New World used this sauce as a dip. Many Chinese recipes use this sauce to pour over the meat and fish, and also as a dipping sauce. Many people around the world favor the dish 'Cantonese sweet and sour pork'. Sweet and sour flavor sauce can be easily made at home.

Recipe to make Sweet and Sour Sauce

Note: Use rice vinegar to give you best results. Instead of water you could use pineapple juice.

Ingredients

cup vinegar (white or rice)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp ketchup
4 tbsp brown sugar/ molasses
2 tsp cornstarch
4 tsp water
Pepper to taste

Method

In a thick-bottomed pan mix the ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce and vinegar well. Boil the mixture and add cornstarch paste. Reduce the flame and stir fast. Keep stirring till it becomes thick. Add pepper and switch off the flame. If you want to make the sauce thicker, increase the quantity of cornstarch.

This sauce can be poured over a dish of cooked meat or vegetables. It is also used as a dipping sauce.

Cantonese Sweet and Sour Pork

This Chinese dish is popular and one of the fast-moving dishes in most of Chinese restaurants in Europe and America.

Ingredients
1 pound pork
3 tsp soy sauce
cup sweet and sour sauce
tsp cornstarch
cup pineapple chunks
1 carrot
Red and green pepper bells ( cup each)
Oil for deep-frying

Ingredients to make batter
cup corn flour
cup multipurpose flour
cup lukewarm water
1 egg white beaten
1 tbsp vegetable oil

Method

Cut the pork into 1-inch cubes and marinate with soy sauce and corn flour for half an hour.

In the meantime, peel and chop the carrot into 1-inch pieces. Remove the seeds from the pepper bells and cut them into cubes.

To make the batter: Sieve flour and corn flour. Put this in a bowl and stir in the vegetable oil and egg white. Mix well. Add water to make a thick batter.

In a thick-bottomed pan heat the oil for deep-frying.

Dip the marinated pork in the batter and fry till it becomes golden brown. If the oil is overheated you can reduce the flame.

In another thick-bottomed pan, boil the sauce. Add cubed pepper bells, pineapple chunks and carrots. Allow it to boil, stirring constantly. You can add pepper or salt to suit your taste.

In a plate arrange the golden brown pork cubes. Pour this sauce over fried pork cubes.

The sweet and sour pork dish could be served with various types of bread such as naan, or with flavored or plain rice.

Sweet and Sour Sauce with Pineapple

Ingredients
4 ounce pineapple juice
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
cup tomato ketchup
cup white vinegar
cup of brown sugar
tbsp corn flour
tsp garlic powder
tsp mustard powder
tsp powdered dry ginger

Method

In a thick-bottomed pan, mix all the above-mentioned ingredients. Bring this mixture to a boil in medium-high heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the sauce is thick.

If you want to store this sauce, allow it to cool. Transfer it into a refrigerator jar and put it in the fridge.

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How to Make Onion Rings

In most of the homes, onions are a must in almost every recipe! Some people even prefer to eat raw onions with some cuisines! Did you know that this pungent and spicy tasting bulb has many health benefits? Yes, it is true that onion can cure and prevent a number of ailments. Onions can reduce the blood sugar levels as well as also prevent osteoporosis! Not only this, onions contain quercetin and phenol, which are antioxidants. These antioxidants are said to help in reducing the possibility of cancer! Apart from these major health benefits, onions can also help you to sleep, as they can cure insomnia. I am sure this is a good news for onion lovers! Now that we know so much about onions, let's proceed and learn how to cook them!

How to Make Onion Rings from Scratch
While choosing onions for onion rings; go for the wide ones and not the tall ones. This is because, you will be able to get wider rings from the wide onions. Go on slicing rings till you reach the end of the root. When you reach the end, (which is actually the top, when you hold an onion in hand), slice of the root in a circular way, from the center. You can easily separate thick onion rings, but if they do not get separated, place the ring between your palms and gently squeeze them in an oval shape. Move it in your hands for a few times. The rings will get loosened up, now you can easily separate them. But remember to start the separation from the innermost ring. Your literal onion rings are ready!

Onion Ring Recipes
Here are a few onion ring recipes to awaken your taste buds!

Onion Ring Recipe Without a Deep Fryer

Ingredients

• 1 large Bermuda onion
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 tsps baking powder
• Shortening or oil for frying
• 1 tbsp. salad oil
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tsps salt
• 1 egg white

Peel and slice the onions in about inch thick slices. Separate into rings. Put the slices in water, for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, drain the water and spread the rings on paper towels. Now make the batter and sift salt and baking powder into it in a bowl and keep aside. In another bowl, beat the egg yolk , add milk and salad oil. Stir well. Add this mixture to the flour mixture; stir until it becomes smooth. Now beat the white egg until stiff peaks form. Mix it into batter and keep aside. Heat 1 inch of shortening in a saucepan to 190C. Dip the onion rings into the batter and drop them into the hot pan and fry till they turn golden.

Onion Rings Recipe in An Oven

Ingredients

• 1 medium sweet onion
• tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1 cups cornflakes
• 2 tbs. vegetable oil
• cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• Coarse salt and ground pepper
• cup plain dried breadcrumbs
• cup low-fat buttermilk

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Add cornflakes and breadcrumbs to a food processor and grind till until fine crumbs are formed. Remove it in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, cayenne, flour, and add salt and pepper to taste. Dip the onion rings in the egg mixture, drip off the excess mixture and cover them with the cornflake mixture. Place the rings on a wire rack. Now pour oil onto a rimmed baking sheet and place it in the oven; heat for 2 minutes. Remove the sheet from oven and turn it around, so that the rings are evenly coated with oil. Put these rings on the sheet and bake them for 20 minutes; turning them once, till they turn golden brown.

Onion Rings Recipe In a Deep Fryer

Ingredients

• Onions
• Eggs(s)
• Flour
• Vegetable Oil

Fill the deep fryer with oil, as per the manual and heat accordingly. Make onion rings as told above. Now beat one egg in a bowl and blend. Coat the onion rings with the egg wash. If needed, beat another egg. Dip the rings, into the flour and place them into the frying basket. Lower this frying basket into the heated oil. When the onions turn golden brown, remove them put on a paper towel. Sprinkle with salt.

Onion Rings Recipe Without Eggs

Ingredients

• 2 sweet onions
• 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• A pinch cayenne
• 1 cup vegan buttermilk
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Add cayenne and buttermilk in a bowl and add the onion rings to the mixture. Let it soak for about 15 minutes. Now heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a pan. Put flour, pepper and salt in a re-sealable bag. Add the rings and shake the bag well. When the oil is hot, add a few rings to the pan. Do not over-crowd the pan. Fry for about 2 minutes, till they turn golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Now that you know how to make onion rings, start making them soon. Also, invite some friends over for tea and have a delicious tea party with these onion rings!

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Oyster Sauce Substitutes

As far as Chinese cuisine is concerned, sauces are almost indispensable. There are different types of sauces that are Chinese in origin and oyster sauce is one among them. As the name rightly suggests, this sauce is made with oysters and this sauce is used in a wide range of Chinese recipes. Apart from Chinese cuisine, oyster sauce is an indispensable ingredient in Thai, Vietnamese and Cambodian cuisine too.

Traditionally, oyster sauce is prepared by condensing oyster broth (made by boiling oysters in water). The oyster broth is reduced, till it becomes viscous and brown in color. Earlier, no additives were added to this sauce. Today, oyster sauce available in the market contain caramel coloring, starch, oyster extracts and preservatives. A vegetarian version of this sauce is also available and is made with mushrooms, especially oyster mushrooms. Oyster sauce enhances the flavor of various meat and vegetable dishes. It is a common ingredient in noodle stir-fries and stir-fried vegetables. Some people use this sauce as a topping. If you want to prepare some recipe that calls for this sauce, then, you may use the sauce itself or its substitutes. A basic understanding about oyster sauce substitutes will prove useful, in case you run out of this sauce.

Oyster Sauce Substitution

In almost all food recipes that require oyster sauce as an ingredient, the flavor is mostly imparted by this sauce. So, there is no point in preparing the dish without adding this sauce. Sometimes, it may happen that you run out of the sauce and realize it, only when you are halfway through the preparation. It is better to add some alternative to oyster sauce rather than ignoring it.

Other Sauces: Most people use soy sauce as an oyster sauce substitute, as the former provides color and some flavor to the dish. You may also add half a teaspoon of sugar to the soy sauce. Some people add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce to soy sauce, which is meant to replace oyster sauce. Even fish sauce is used as a replacement for oyster sauce in some food recipes. You may use the one that is best suited for the dish as per your choice (and the flavor of the dish). However, it cannot be a perfect replacement as there will be some difference in flavor.

Vegan Substitute: Another option is to prepare a vegetarian substitute for oyster sauce. This will be more useful for vegans. All you have to do is to dissolve one mushroom broth cube in half a cup of boiling water. Add two tablespoons of brown bean sauce and one tablespoon of unprocessed sugar to the solution. Allow it to boil for sometime and then add cornstarch mixed with water (one teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in one teaspoon of cold water). Stir the boiling solution, till it thickens. Your oyster sauce substitute is ready.

Homemade Oyster Sauce: You can easily prepare oyster sauce at home, with the following ingredients. Drain oysters from half a pound of shucked oysters (with liquid) and keep aside the liquid. Mince the drained oysters and add one tablespoon of water and the reserved liquid to it. Take a saucepan and boil the mixture. Once it is boiled, simmer for around ten minutes. Then, remove the saucepan from heat, add salt and let it cool. Sieve the mixture and add two tablespoons of light soy sauce for every half cup of the mixture. The next step is to add half tablespoon of dark soy sauce. Now, boil the solution and simmer for about ten minutes. Your homemade oyster sauce is ready and can be used as substitute for regular one.

These substitutes may alter the taste and flavor of the dish to some extent. While soy sauce and fish sauce may not exactly replace oyster sauce in flavor, sauce prepared from mushrooms could be a better option. Homemade substitute can be more effective, as compared to other options. You may try these methods and find the perfect one for your recipe.

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How to Bone a Chicken

Removing bones from a whole chicken is generally considered to be a messy as well as difficult task. But, sometimes, it may happen that you need boneless chicken, but all you have is a whole one. In such situations, you can debone the whole chicken and prepare the dish.

Tips to Debone a Chicken

You have a whole chicken and you want to remove the bones. In this task, you need a good cutting board, sharpening steels and boning knives.

• First of all, remove the wing tips and keep it aside. It can be used along with the bones for making stock. The drumette can be used after removing the bones.
• The next step is to remove the legs (both thighs and drumsticks) from the body. You have to make a deep cut, where the leg meets the body. Now, pull the legs, so that the thigh bone separates from the socket. Cut off the remaining flesh that binds the leg to the body. Remove the other leg too.
• Now, we can take a look at how to bone a chicken leg. Place the chicken leg on the cutting board, with the meaty part facing downwards. Feel the bone with the knife and make a slit on the chicken leg along the length of the bone. Now, carefully detach the flesh from the bone and keep the bones aside with the wing tips.
• Now, keep the chicken on the cutting board with the breasts facing upwards. Feel the breastbone with the knife and make two cuts along both the sides of the breastbone.
• Guide the knife through the contours of the rib bones and remove the flesh on both sides carefully. Remove the whole chicken breast.
• Turn the chicken, so that its back faces you. You have to carve out the flesh from the bones in a careful manner. Don't forget to cut out the round piece of flesh called the oyster, which is located behind the hollow of the hip socket in the back.

Don't throw away the bones, as you can use it for making chicken stock. In short, removing bones from a chicken is a simple task. You need a basic idea about the bone structure of a chicken and where to cut and how to cut. The only thing to remember is that you have to carefully scrape out the flesh from the bone. Once you get a basic understanding of the technique, it will become easier for you.

This is not a daunting or messy task, if you know the right method of removing bones from chicken. You can also save money, as a whole chicken costs less than the pre-cut ones. If you know how to bone a chicken, it can help you out when you are in urgent need of boneless chicken and all you have is a whole chicken.

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Homemade Hot Sauce

Hot sauce is basically any sauce made from chili peppers. Chili sauce and pepper sauce are two other names for hot sauce. As the name suggests, these sauce recipes are very hot in taste and the burning sensation experienced while consuming hot sauce is referred as capsacin. Hot sauce can be made from a variety of peppers like jalapenos, tabasco, habanero, etc. and each of these peppers has different level of heat intensity. Preparing hot sauce at home, is quite easy and you can have it in large quantity at an economic price. All you need to do is simply select your favorite peppers and prepare your hot sauce. You can start with one of the recipes given below.

Homemade Hot Sauce Recipes

Mexican Hot Sauce Recipe
Ingredients

• Warm water - 1 cups
• White vinegar - 1 teaspoon
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Garlic cloves (pressed) - 2
• Dried guajillo chili - 1
• Dried chili negro (pasilla) pepper - 1
• Dried New Mexico chili pods - 2
• Packed brown sugar - 1 teaspoon

Procedure

To prepare this easy hot sauce recipe, first remove the stems and seeds from all types of chilies listed above. Then, take a cast-iron skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the chilies in the skillet and toast them for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they turn lightly brown. Place these toasted chilies in a small bowl and pour the warm water over them. Leave them to soak in the water for about 40 minutes. Then take out the New Mexico chilies and the guajillo from the bowl and scrape the pulp with help of a spoon. Now, combine this pulp and pasilla chili in a food processor along with the water in which they were soaked. Puree this mixture properly, so that all the ingredients get combined properly. Then, add cumin, salt, brown sugar, vinegar and garlic to the mixture in food processor and again puree the mixture to attain smooth texture.

Habanero Hot Sauce Recipe
Ingredients

• White vinegar - 2 cups
• Serrano peppers - 36
• Habanero peppers - 24
• Onion powder - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic cloves (minced) - 3
• Ground black pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Chili powder - 1 tablespoon

Procedure

Habanero sauce is one of the best homemade hot sauce for wings, specially chicken wings. First add the vinegar to a large saucepan and bring it to boil. Then combine habanero peppers and serrano peppers to the boiling vinegar and cook the mixture for about 3 minutes. Pour this mixture into a blender and then add onion powder, pepper, chili powder and garlic to it. Blend the mixture at low speed and then increase the speed gradually to attain a smooth texture. This can take about 3 minutes.

Green Hot Sauce (Hot Salsa) Recipe
Ingredients

• Tomatillos (husked and rinsed) - 10
• Serrano chile peppers (sliced) - 8
• Onion (sliced) - 1
• Garlic (chopped) - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 2 tablespoons

Procedure

This is a homemade hot salsa recipe that can be served with tacos and nachos. Take a saucepan and combine serrano peppers, tomatillos, onion and garlic in it. Then add water to the saucepan to cover the ingredients. Add 2 tablespoons of salt and bring the mixture to boil. Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat to medium-low and then cook the mixture until the tomatillos become soft and they attain a brownish color. This may take about 20 to 30 minutes. You may add some more water so that the mixture does not burn. Then, pour these cooked vegetables into a blender and puree the mixture until it becomes smooth.

These were some simple hot sauce recipes for you. These hot sauces can be served with a variety of food items like chicken wings, rice, grilled beef, etc. Now, when you know how to prepare hot sauce, try these recipes and enjoy the hot flavor. Happy Cooking!

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Diabetic Chicken Recipes

Diabetes is a serious ailment which is developed when the body stops the production of insulin, that controls sugar or glucose level in the blood. There are two varieties of diabetes, namely Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. A person detected with diabetes, has to follow a strict diet throughout his life. If diabetes is not controlled, it can cause harm to the person's eyes, liver and heart. A diabetic patient should take utmost care about his health and avoid putting on weight. Exercises and a low fat diet are extremely necessary for this. One should abstain from consuming saturated fats in one's diet, and prefer a low fat diet. Even the way of cooking should be changed to accommodate the needs of the diabetic diet plan. For instance, meat can be eaten, but only after the fatty areas like liver and kidney are taken out. If you prefer chicken, remember to skin it before or after cooking. Here are some chicken recipes for diabetic patients.

Chicken Veggie Dish

Ingredients

• 12 ounces boneless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces cauliflower
• pounds mushrooms
• 8 ounces flour
• 3-4 medium-sized green onions
• 3 tablespoons dry sherry
• 3 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 8 ounces broccoli flowerets
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon arrowroot
• teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger root

Preparation

Skin the chicken and cut it into small pieces, after removing fatty substances. Dice the mushrooms and chop the green onions into one inch pieces. In two tablespoons of water, dissolve the arrowroot and set aside. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep non stick pan and stir-fry the chicken on high heat. When the chicken is thoroughly cooked, transfer it into a plate and let it warm. In the same pan, stir-fry cauliflower and broccoli for 2-3 minutes. Put in the green onions, sherry, soy sauce, mushrooms and ginger-root and cook on medium heat, while stirring continuously. Pour in the dissolved arrowroot, chicken and sesame oil, and mix well. Cover with a lid and let it cook thoroughly. Garnish it with peanuts and serve hot.

Low-Fat Chicken Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt
• 1 teaspoon caper juice
• 12 ounces poached chicken
• 1 watercress
• 3 teaspoons dried leaf basil
• 4 small green onions
• 4 large romaine lettuce leaves
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste
• pepper- as per taste
• 1 teaspoons capers
• 1-2 tomatoes
• Pita bread

Preparation

Chop the green onion and basil into small pieces, and slice the chicken into large chunks. In a small bowl, take caper, tomato paste, caper juice, yogurt and pepper. Add watercress and mix well. Take a salad bowl, and place the onions, chicken and basil in it. Pour in the seasonings, and mix well. Top it with tomato slices and leftover watercress. Spread on romaine leaves and serve with pita bread.

Veg-Chicken Sandwich

Ingredients

• 4 ounces chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• teaspoon horseradish
• 3 teaspoons low salt, low fat mayonnaise
• 4 ounces mushrooms
• teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 clove garlic
• 4 multigrain crisp rolls
• 2 medium-sized onions
• butter flavored cooking spray
• 2 teaspoons ketchup

Preparation

Preheat the oven at 350 degrees. Grill the chicken for 5-10 minutes and turn it frequently so that the whole chicken is cooked thoroughly. Take it out of the oven and let it cool so much as to become warm. Chop the mushroom, onions and garlic into thin pieces. Take a non-stick pan and grease it with the cooking spray. When the oil gets heated, add onions and mushrooms, and fry on medium to low heat. Put in the garlic and stir for 2-3 minutes. When the mushrooms are fully cooked, take it off the heat and keep aside. By this time the chicken must have become warm, so chop it into small slices and place it in a mixing bowl. Add the fried mushrooms, onions and garlic and blend well. Put in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish and mix well. Stuff this into the rolls, and enjoy the delicious veggie chicken sandwich.

These chicken recipes have all the essential nutrients and at the same time are planned keeping in mind the needs of diabetic patients. Savor these dishes with delight, without the fear of causing harm to your health.

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How to Clean Stainless Steel Grills

Stainless steel is corrosion-resistive because of the formation of a thin layer of chromium oxide on its surface. This layer is formed when the chromium present in the stainless steel combines with atmospheric oxygen. When the surface of stainless steel article gets covered with dirt or food material, the stainless steel cannot have any contact with oxygen which results in a decrease in its protection from corrosion. This problem arises even when a high quality steel product is chosen. The use of marinades and sauces that are acidic in nature, aggravates the situation further.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Grills?

Cleaning the Grill After Each Use
In order to obtain a good cleaning effect, you must try to clean the stainless steel grill, immediately after each use. After each use, allow the grill to cool down a bit. Then, wipe it off with a soft cloth that has been dipped in any good liquid-soap. Remove all the food particles, particularly the marinades, as they cause maximum damage to your grill. After this, wash off with water properly. Never use steel or wire wool for scrubbing the grill as they often leave behind some particles on the surface that can cause rusting. It is also important that you choose the right kind of soap for cleaning stainless steel grills. While rubbing or wiping the surface of the steel, take care that the movement is along the polish lines and not across them.

Cleaning the Stains Off the Grill
In case, you have not cleaned your grill immediately after your last use, it gives you a tough time. You cannot rub the grill vigorously, as it tends to get scratched very easily. Also, you cannot use any of those abrasive cleaning products that are suitable for other metals. If you use wire brush to remove the old foodstuffs that remained stuck for a long time on your stainless steel grill, even then, the stainless steel grill will get scratched. Given below, are some ways to clean old stains from stainless steel grills.

Take out the cooking grids from the grill and use a soft brush made of brass wire to clean the debris and the ash that are loosely stuck to its sides. If there are some burned coatings, scrape them out with a putty knife. The same method should be applied for removing the debris from a pan as well. Now, take a large plastic-bin that can accommodate your grill and make a mixture of dish washing soap and warm water. Soak the grill into it for fifteen minutes. If the container cannot soak the entire grill, then soak one half at a time. This way, you can get rid of any heavy grime.

You can also use some natural cleaners for cleaning stainless steel grill. Pour some white vinegar on those portions of the grill that are badly soiled and then sprinkle some baking soda over it. You will see bubbles forming up. Allow this solution to sit on the grill for about half an hour, if the stain is tough; otherwise, ten minutes is enough. Then, wipe the grill off with a moist cloth and rinse thoroughly.

Fingerprints and mild stains are common problems that lead to the discoloration of the stainless steel. It is quite difficult to clean fingerprint marks from the surface of stainless steel. Glass cleaners work well to clean fingerprints and mild stains. A natural method for cleaning them is to make a paste of soda ash and water and apply it on the stains with the help of a soft rag. Then wash it off thoroughly with some warm water.

If the water you are using for the last rinse has high calcium content, it can leave white spots on the surface of the grill. Hence, it is essential that the surface should be wiped off with dry towels after every wash.

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Baked Chicken Drumstick Recipes

Chicken is one of the most popular meats enjoyed by one and all. There are scores of chicken dishes that can be made with loads of variations. Of all the various chicken recipes, chicken drumstick recipes are quite popular. They are relatively inexpensive, can be cooked in less time and they make delicious treats! Moreover, they contain less fat and can be enjoyed by health conscious people too. Roasted chicken drumstick, baked drumstick, grilled drumstick are some popular recipes.

Chicken Drumstick Baked with Soy Sauce
Ingredients:

• 900 gm chicken drumsticks
• 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• lemon
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons white rice wine
• White pepper

Directions:

Rinse the chicken drumsticks well and pat dry. In a bowl, take soy sauce, ginger and garlic. Add wine, pepper and sugar to it and mix well. Now use this mixture to marinate the drumsticks. Leave it for about one to two hours. In a small frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil. Add the marinated drumsticks and cook until lightly brown. Transfer the brown drumsticks to a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 356 F for about 10 to 15 minutes. Turn them over and bake for another 10 minutes. Once it's done, squeeze th of a lemon over it and serve hot!

Chicken Drumstick Baked with Honey
Ingredients:

• 4 lb chicken drumsticks
• cup honey
• 3 tablespoons water
• cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• teaspoon black pepper, finely ground

Directions:

In a bowl, combine honey, sugar, vinegar, water, mustard, garlic and oil. Whisk them all together. Add chicken drumsticks to it and toss to coat. Now, place the chicken on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and bake in a preheated oven at 400 F for about 30 to 35 minutes. Serve immediately!

Drumstick Baked with Breadcrumbs
Ingredients:

• 6 large chicken drumsticks
• cup mayonnaise
• cup Dijon mustard
• cup dry breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons chives or onion greens, finely chopped
• Olive oil
• Salt

Directions:

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce and mustard. In another bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and chopped chives. Sprinkle salt over the chicken drumsticks. Now, dip each drumstick in the mayonnaise mixture, turning to coat. Then dip the drumstick in the breadcrumbs mixture, turning to coat well. Place the coated drumsticks on a roasting pan and bake in a preheated oven at 425 F for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Drumstick Baked with Buttermilk
Ingredients:

• 4 chicken drumsticks
• cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
• cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions:

In a bowl, place the chicken drumsticks. Add buttermilk and salt and mix well. Allow it to marinate for 30 to 35 minutes in the refrigerator. In another bowl, combine all the other ingredients except butter and olive oil. Melt butter in a baking pan. Add olive oil to it and keep it aside. Lift each drumstick from the buttermilk and drain all the excess buttermilk. Dip it in the breadcrumbs mixture, turning to coat well. Now, place the coated drumsticks in the baking pan and turn, to coat with the butter and olive oil mixture. Bake in a preheated oven for 40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown. Serve hot while the topping is crunchy!

Baked chicken can be made in a few minutes and turns out to be a tasty delight for everyone! Hope you liked these recipes!

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Homemade Spaghetti Tomato Sauce

Spaghetti sauce is a must with Italian pasta! However good the pasta is, its taste cannot be brought out until it is seasoned with a little spaghetti sauce! Making homemade spaghetti tomato sauce is quite easy, if you know the exact ingredients and some flavoring secrets! The following recipes will provide you with all the tips you will need for the perfect Italian style spaghetti sauce.

Homemade Spaghetti Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients

• 4 large leaves fresh basil
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 4 large ripe plum tomatoes, blanched, peeled and seeded
• Salt and pepper

Process

Blanch the tomatoes by placing them in simmering water, cover it and cook until the skin of the tomatoes split, for about 4 minutes. After 4 minutes, remove the tomatoes from heat, drain and let cool in a colander. Meanwhile, cut the basil into strips by first stacking them one over other and then rolling them lengthwise and then cutting across, to make strips; also mince garlic. The tomatoes must have been drained and cooled till now, dice the cooled tomatoes and set aside. Take a skillet and heat olive oil in it, add garlic, 1/8 tsp salt and black pepper to it. Heat on medium heat, only till garlic is fragrant, do not brown. Add in basil and tomatoes to the oil and simmer until liquid is released for about 5 minutes. When the mixture turns into a thick sauce add in salt and pepper to taste. Toss with boiled pasta and serve. This is one of the easy spaghetti tomato sauce recipes.

Homemade Spaghetti Meatballs With Tomato Sauce
Ingredients

For Meatballs

• tsp ground black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup fresh bread crumbs
• 1 tbs grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbs dried parsley

For Sauce

• 2 (28 ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes
• cup chopped onion
• tsp ground black pepper
• cup olive oil
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp white sugar
• 1 bay leaf
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp salt

Process

Take a large mixing bowl and add bread crumbs, cheese, ground beef, parsley, garlic powder, tsp black pepper and beaten egg in it, blend thoroughly and form it into 12 balls. Refrigerate until needed. Now heat a saucepan, pour olive oil into it and saut garlic and onions over medium heat. When onions turn light in shade, add in sugar, salt, tomatoes and bay leaf. Reduce the heat to low, cover and let simmer for 90 minutes. After the required time, stir in basil, tomato paste, meatballs and tsp pepper. Simmer for about 30 minutes, serve this homemade spaghetti tomato sauce hot.

Chicken Spaghetti Tomato Sauce
Ingredients

• 3 lbs chicken, boiled and chopped
• 2 cups broth, use from boiled chicken
• 3 tbs bacon grease
• 2 onions, chopped
• 1 green sweet pepper, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 4 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 tbs Worcestershire sauce
• 6 green onions, chopped (optional)
• 1 lb spaghetti noodles, uncooked
• 1 (10 ounce) can tomato soup
• 2 tsp hot sauce (optional)
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 bell pepper
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

Process

Take a medium-sized skillet and saut garlic, bell pepper, onion, celery and green onion in bacon grease until onions are translucent. Bring to a boil and then add bay leaves and vegetables, boil further for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, add Worcestershire sauce and cook on medium-low heat, until thick. Add in tomato soup, tomato sauce and tomato paste and boil for 10 more minutes. After the required time, stir in noodles along with diced chicken and cook only until the sauce has been absorbed. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little broth. This is one of the most delicious homemade spaghetti with tomato sauce.

These were some easy homemade spaghetti sauce recipes. You can add in extra ingredients in any of the above homemade spaghetti tomato sauce recipes, however, keep the base same to maintain the unique taste.

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Things to Have at a Party

To make your party a big success, there are certain things you need to take into consideration. Firstly think of the people you are inviting, would they like a theme party or a normal party with music, food, and fun games. When matching something to the party theme, make sure that the stuff not only matched the party but is also liked by the guests, for example don't use purple color appetizers, or over decorate. To be on the safer side, stick to normal stuff people enjoy like coke and fries, rather than trying some colorful experimental punch drink.

Party for Kids
Planning a party for your kids? Here are some tips for fun things to have for a party for kids.

• Decorate the place with lots of colorful balloons. Hang some balloons and leave some on the floor. To add more to the decorations, you can hang rainbow-colored crepe paper around and keep some colorful party hats for the kids.
• Pre-plan the stuff to do at the party, like party games; some of the best choices for kids are scavenger hunts, musical chairs, and pin the tail on the donkey.
• Make a playlist of some good songs which kids would enjoy, and play it during the party
• If you wish to add to the entertainment, then you can consider hiring some professionals like clowns or magicians. Or learn some fun card tricks and perform them at the party.
• Food for the party like fries, pizza, cookies, or hotdogs are great. For drinks, you can opt for juices or shakes. To make the food more attractive, you can have different icing patterns on the cookies. Don't forget the cake, when you throw a kids birthday party!

Party for Teens
Here are some things you can have at a party for teens so that the party is awesome.

• Teens love to dance, so make sure you have space for a dance floor when having a teen party. In case, you can't hire a DJ, just a good playlist with popular songs on a stereo will do.
• Themes like costume party, mall and movie parties for girls, slumber parties, or parties at the bowling alley can be fun. So, you can go for one such theme.
• According to the theme party, make sure you plan out some fun party games.
• For party food, go for stuff like chicken wings, pizza, hotdogs, fruit chunks, fries, dips, popcorn, etc.
• For drinks, you can have soft punch or orange and other flavored sodas.

Party for Adults
Below are some ideas on things you can have at a party which will help you plan a party for adults.

• Set the date, and send party invitations to all the people you want to invite to the party.
• You can personalize the party with a theme, like barbecue, dinner party, dance party, or some costume theme like toga party.
• Make sure you keep the menu simple but enjoyable, to avoid any disasters. There are sample menus for which you can search the internet, for specific party themes. For example, for a dance party go for fresh cut veggies with blue cheese dressing, tortilla chips or crackers with dips, and mini frittatas. For a barbecue party, go for grilled meat like chicken marinated with a barbecue sauce, and keep some grilled veggies, green bean casserole, macaroni and cheese, and for dips go for feta and pepper dip.
• For drinks again choose according to the theme of the party, like beers for barbecue and make sure you have plenty of ice.
• For entertainment, play great music and pre-plan some fun party games.

These were the things you can have at a party according to three age groups. So use the above party ideas and throw a fun party your guests to remember!

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How to Cook a Brisket in the Oven

Unlike certain other cuts of beef, briskets are tough with lots of connective tissues. It is obtained from the lower chest part of the cow and was believed to be poor cut of beef, for a very long time. But, today it is very popular as one of the delicious and popular beef cuts. However, a brisket needs to be cooked properly, so as to make it tender as well as flavorful.

Cooking Brisket in the Oven

You may buy briskets as flat cuts that have lesser fat, or as point cuts with more fat. Whole briskets with fat cap is mostly preferred, and this type is called 'packer's cut'. While, tender cuts of beef are preferred for quick cooking methods, tougher ones, like, briskets need to be cooked for longer periods, that too over low heat. This slow cooking method is necessary to break down the tissues in this cut of meat, so as to make it tender and flavorful. It is said that smoking over low heat on a barbecue smoker for a long duration, is the best method to cook briskets. But, it is also possible to cook a brisket in the oven.

Easy Beef Brisket

Ingredients

• Trimmed beef brisket - 4 pounds
• Beef stock - 1 cups
• Chili powder - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 2 tablespoons
• Dry mustard - 2 teaspoons
• Garlic powder - 1 tablespoon
• Onion powder - 1 tablespoon
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Ground black pepper powder - 1 tablespoon
• Crushed bay leaf - 1

How to Prepare

This is one of the simplest oven-roasted beef brisket recipes. All you have to do is to make a dry rub by combining chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, bay leaf, salt, dry mustard and pepper powder. Apply the rub all over the brisket and keep it aside. Take a roasting pan and place the brisket in it. Now, roast the brisket for around an hour, in the oven that is preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once done, take out the pan and add the beef stock. You may also add a small amount of water, till the pan has at least half an inch of fluid in it. Now, cover the pan securely with the lid and cook for another three hours. But, this time, the temperature should be lowered to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. So, in this case, the total brisket cooking time is four hours. But, if the meat is not tender, you may continue cooking for some more time. The meat can be checked with a fork to see if it is done.

Spicy Oven-baked Brisket

Ingredients

• Untrimmed beef brisket - 4 pounds
• Apple cider vinegar - cup
• Worcestershire sauce - 1/8 cup
• Soy sauce - cup
• Liquid smoke - cup
• Black coffee - cup
• Crushed garlic cloves - 5
• Large onion - 1 (cut into slivers)
• Cayenne - 2 teaspoons
• Ground black pepper - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 2 tablespoons
• Sliced Jalapenos (fresh) - 4

How to Prepare

Start with making a dry rub by mixing cayenne, black pepper, garlic and salt. Apply it all over the brisket and keep aside. Now, take a large roasting pan and spread half of the sliced jalapenos and slivered onion on its bottom. Add apple cider vinegar, black coffee, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and liquid smoke to the pan. The next step is to place the brisket in the pan, with its fat side up. The remaining jalapeno slices can be placed over the brisket, before covering the pan with foil. You have to bake the brisket for around four to five hours, in the oven that is preheated to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Check if it is done, after the first four hours and if the meat has turned tender, you can remove it from the oven and serve. Otherwise let the brisket cook in the oven, for another hour, before taking it out.

In short, brisket can be cooked perfectly in the oven, if you know the right methods for the same. Now that you have a fair idea about how to cook a brisket in the oven, you may try the above said recipes. If you get comfortable in this task, you may go for other such recipes as well.

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How to Build a Gas Fire Pit

Fire pits in your backyard can serve a number of purposes. They can be used for the weekend barbecue party that you throw on a regular basis or you can light a bonfire and sit around it regaling each other with stories. Fire pits make your backyard or patio look more cozy and also have a utilitarian purpose to it.

Traditionally fire pits are made of metal and allow you to burn wood in it. With technological advances though, you can now make fire pits which have gas burning abilities. Unlike the fire pits that were made earlier, most fire pits made now are in fact portable. While most hardware stores have ready-made fire pits that can be purchased, building a gas fire pit on your own will allow you the satisfaction of knowing that it is a job well done. You can also get an assembled fire pit that provides you with all the components needed to make a gas fire pit. In this article, we give you a step-by-step guide on how to build a fire pit with gas burning facilities.

Building a Gas Fire Pit

Learning to build a gas fire pit with bricks is not very difficult and the entire process in only moderately challenging. Since you will be laying a gas line for the fire pit, it may be a good idea to get this done by a professional as you want ensure that proper safety is maintained while constructing the fire pit.

Most gas fire pits are of two kinds; one a match-lit kit and the other a remote-lit kit. While the match lit kit needs you to turn on the gas valve and light the burner with a lighter, the remote lit kit operates automatically. The cost of the process can range anywhere between USD 500 to USD 1000. Let us now take a look at how you can build a gas fire pit in your backyard.

Things You Need

• Concrete
• Mortar
• Firebrick
• Trowel
• Drill
• Carbide blade
• Rocks

Method

• The first and foremost thing you need to do before starting to build a gas fire pit in your backyard is to decide on one of the many fire pit designs at your disposal. The design will decide a whole lot of things for you.
• Once you have decided on a suitable design for your gas fire pit it is up to you to study the fire pit plans according to the landscape that you are going to place it in.
• Once you have decided the position for your gas fire pit, measure the width and height of the fire ring that you are going to place in the pit and then accordingly make measurements in your yard. You will need to extend these measurements for the fire pits.
• You will now need to dig a hole which has to be deeper than one foot.
• Now take the bricks and lay the first set around the pit that you have dug to start constructing the walls of the fire pit. Set the concrete in such a manner that it forms a circle. Let the inside edges touch each other. This will create V-shaped gaps in the structure.
• Take the mortar mix that you have and fill the V shaped gaps with the mortar mix using a trowel.
• Next start laying bricks around the perimeter of the concrete using mortar to set the bricks in place.
• Now take the firebricks and set it in the inner perimeter of the structure that you have created. Use mortar to set the bricks in place. Allow this structure to set for at least 24 hours.
• Now at one end of the fire pit structure that you have create drill a hole. This hole will allow you to place the gas line for the gas fire pit. It is advisable to hire a professional to do this.
• Once the gas line is laid, insert the fire ring in the fire pit at a distance of at least 3 to five inches from the edge of the fire pit. Connect it to the gas line but ensure that the gas is turned off when you do this. Use lava or sand rocks to cover the fire ring.

You are done. There are many different fire pit ideas that you can use to build a fire pit in your backyard. Remember that a fire pit can be a safety hazard and therefore you need to maintain complete safety while using one. Do not let any combustible items sit around the fire pit. This can cause an accidental fire. Also avoid using the gas line on a windy day as it can cause the fire to spread. Gas lines need to be checked constantly to ensure that they re clean and that the air flow is not blocked. Also instruct your children to stay away from the fire pit. As long as proper safety measures are followed, using a fire pit can lead to many memorable moments where you have had fun using the gas fire pit for impromptu cooking sessions or camping nights.

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Easy Grilled Vegetable Recipes

Both vegetarians and non-vegetarians enjoy grilled vegetables equally. Vegetables are easy to grill and they would either make an amazing side-dish, starters or a whole meal. Remember, to cut or slice the washed vegetables in small and consistent pieces. You could use kebabs skewers or heavy-duty aluminum foil for grilling small vegetables. However, large pieces of vegetable could be placed directly on the grill. Another point to keep in mind is never leave the vegetable grill unattended because the cooking time for vegetables is less. Try out these easy grilled vegetable recipes.

Grilled Vegetable Kebabs with Homemade Croutons

Ingredients

For Vegetable Kebabs

• 1 onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1-cup halved mushroom
• cup olive oil
• cup red wine/vinegar

For croutons

• cup olive oil
• 4 slices freshly baked bread
• Herbs and spices of your choice
• You need 4 skewers and a sheet of heavy-duty foil

Preparation for Grilled Vegetable Kebabs

In a wide-mouthed bowl blend vinegar and oil and keep it aside. Slice the bell peppers and zucchini into wide pieces. Cube the onion into 12 pieces. Arrange the vegetables by alternating them on 4 large skewers. Marinate the kebabs by rubbing the mixture of oil and vinegar. Leave it undisturbed for minimum 15 minutes. Place the skewers on a medium hot coal and grill for 10-12 minutes or till the vegetables turn slightly brown or tender. The kebabs should be served hot.

Preparation for Croutons

Homemade croutons are tastier compared to the one's bought from a food store. Whisk the herbs and spice along with olive oil. Spread this flavored oil on both sides of the bread before arranging them on a heavy-duty foil. Place the foil on the top rack of the pre-heated grill and grill at 300 degree Celsius for 30-45 minutes or till they become crisp and dry.

Serve it along with the hot grilled vegetable kebabs and sauce. Grilled vegetables are highly nutritious and a healthy diet.

Grilling Corn Cobs with Husks

Ingredients

• 4 corn cobs with husk
• 4 tbsp soft butter (keep it out for an hour)
• 4 tsp powdered black pepper
• Ground paprika and salt to taste

Preparation

The corn cobs have to be cleaned before using. Without detaching from the stem of the corncob, separate the husks. The corn silk could be removed by pulling them off from the kernels. Apply butter along the entire length of the corncob and sprinkle the same with salt, pepper and paprika. Cover the corn with husks and tie the end of the husks with kitchen twine. Repeat the same procedure for the remaining corn cobs.

Cover the husk handles with heavy-duty foil and place it on a low flame to prevent burning. Turn the corncob once in 5 minutes. The entire cooking time would take 15-10 minutes. When it is ready, the color of the husk would turn dark brown and would be a bit charred.

Soak the corn cobs with husks in cold water for an hour before grilling them. This would prevent the husks from burning and the corn from becoming tough and dry.

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Outdoor Family Portrait Poses

Family portrait photography is all about the warmth and love that flows through family and works best when done outdoors. How close knit a family is becomes very evident from the pose that it chooses. So, let us explore some options of poses that you can try in the outdoors. They'll look great, and will be an enriching and fun experience that the entire family will treasure.

Barbecue Time




This is one of the seemingly casual ideas, but is effective nonetheless. You've obviously had a barbecue, at least once in your life. Even if you haven't, for this idea, what you can do is, get out the barbecue stand, and place it in the backyard. If you don't own one, rent or borrow one. The whole family must dress up in breezy summer clothes in either pastel shades, or bright colors. This picture has to be taken during the day time. Have a table with a pretty table cloth on it, and plates and glasses, for the family placed on the table. The father can stand at the barbecue stand, the mother can stand next to him, with a plate in her hand. The kids can be at the table, waiting for their grilled sandwiches. All must fit in one frame, and should smile looking at the camera! *click*
At the Beach




Another idea for a gorgeous outdoor family photo is a trip to the beach. The entire family can wear khaki bottoms, and white tops. The dad and son can be in shorts and plain white t-shirts, and the mum and daughter can wear khaki skirts, and white strappy tops. No footwear. The girls can leave their hair open. For the picture, you can either, all pose together, seated near a sand castle, or take a picture, while you'll walk on the beach hand in hand. The order of standing need not be height-wise. You can alternate girl-boy-girl-boy. Or you can even try out the poses given in the images here. *click*
In the Garden




Come spring and the flowers are all ready to welcome you with their vibrant colors, and lingering fragrances. You can't hope for a better background for your outdoor family picture than a garden in full bloom. So, put on your dressy clothes, and get ready for a memorable photo shoot that will accentuate the bounty of nature, as well as the love that flows through your family. Select a bench in a garden that has a lot of flowers in it. Have the kids sitting on the bench, while the parents stand behind the bench. Or, the whole family can sit on the bench. If you're not too keen on the bench, you can just spread a pretty mat, and sit in the midst of a flowerbed, picnic style! *click*
Under the Trees




Autumn brings with it, the golden hues of fallen leaves. And this gold, covering the pathways, and the lawns, makes for an absolutely stunning background for family portraits. Have the family dressed in shades of brown, cream, and gold. Choose a tree which has a lot of dried leaves fallen under it. Or rake up leaves, and place them under the tree. The photo should be taken from above. The whole family can stand in a circle holding hands, and look upwards, towards the photographer. The focus should be on the people, and the leaves in the background can be blurred. The other ideas mentioned in the images here also work well! *click*
You can enhance outdoor portraits by using different techniques like black and white photography and other ideas. Have a great time clicking the picture. It's going to be a memory for a lifetime.

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Calories in a Chicken Breast

Chicken is a part of the daily meal for many families. It is not just easy to cook and tastes awesome, but also contains many nutrients. Each part of chicken contains some or the other nutrients, and compared to other white meats, chicken is also very less in calories. Let us take a look at the nutrients present in chicken breasts followed by chicken breast calories.

Chicken Breast Nutrition Facts

Chicken breast is the most widely consumed part of chicken. It is a rich source of lean protein. As we all know, protein is very necessary for the proper growth and development of the body. It also helps to lose weight fast. Chicken breast protein also helps in preventing bone loss in older people. Vitamin B, niacin can also be found in chicken. These nutrients protect the body against cancer. Apart from vitamin B, even vitamin B6 is present in chicken, this vitamin is very important for the body, deficiency of vitamin B6 can pose a danger to the blood vessels. Chicken breast is one of the best foods that has a low metabolism, as the combination of niacin and vitamin B6 supports the metabolism. Minerals like phosphorous are also present in chicken, phosphorous maintains the health of bones and teeth, along with helping in the efficient functioning of the central nervous system, kidneys and liver. Like most of the other raw foods, the nutrients in chicken breast also decrease when it is cooked. Heat also effects chicken breast, making it unfit for eating. So, chicken breast should always be kept in the refrigerator, not just to maintain the nutrients but also the taste! This was about the nutrients present in chicken breast. Scroll down to know about the chicken breast calories, in different types of cooked chicken.

Here are some important chicken breast nutrient facts, all these nutrients are present in 4 oz chicken breast, which is the normal serving size.

• Total Fat - 1 g (2%)
  • Saturated Fat - 0.4 g (2%)
  • Monounsaturated Fat - 0.4 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat - 0.3 g
• Cholesterol - 68 mg (23%)
• Sodium - 77 mg (3%)
• Potassium - 13mg (4%)
• Total Carbohydrate - 0 g (0%)
  • Dietary Fiber - 0 g (0%)
  • Sugars - 0.1 g
• Protein - 27 g (54%)
• Vitamin C - 2%
• Calcium - 1%
• Iron - 5%
• Vitamin D - 0%
• Vitamin E - 0%
• Niacin (B3) - 1.151 mg
• Vitamin B6 - 32%
• Vitamin B12 - 7%
• Magnesium - 15 mg

Calories in Chicken Breast

As stated earlier, chicken breast is very less in calories, which is why it is considered a very healthy option. However, the chicken breast calories also vary according to the way you cook it. Baked chicken will obviously have less calories than fried chicken! If you are wondering about boneless skinless chicken breast calories, it contains 110 calories and 83.6% proteins. The following table contains fried chicken breast calories, baked chicken breast calories and grilled chicken breast calorie count.

Name of the Item	Quantity Served	Calories
Plain Baked Chicken	3 oz	110
Grilled Chicken Breast	4 ounce	184
Fried Chicken Breast	4 oz	218

This table indicated the general calorie count in each of the above chicken dishes. The calories can increase or decrease according to the different ingredients used in it. If you wish to have a completely healthy chicken dish, add ingredients which have less calories, avoid over-use of butter, instead use margarine, etc. You can also use different vegetables, they will increase the nutrition of the dish along with giving it a unique flavor.

This was all about chicken breast calories. So, now that you know the exact amount of calories in chicken breast, you can try to cut down the calories by keeping the dish simple and not adding other high calorie ingredients in it.

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