Making the effort and taking the time to say "I love you" with a beautiful and tasty assortment of foods is the perfect way to show we appreciate the amazing mothers and women in our lives. These recipes may be prepared the day before and simply reheated and served. Adding sides of fresh fruits, juices and flowers elevates her experience! After all, it's the thought that counts, not perfection.
Candied Bacon
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20-30 minutes
Oven temp: 375 degrees
Ingredients
1 Lb. good quality thick cut bacon. Plain, not peppered.
1 to 2 cups brown sugar
Seasoning: This is where you may get as creative as you like. I used 1 Tablespoon of Tony's Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper, but I have used mild paprika and seasoned salt and pepper as well. The bacon will take on the delicious flavor of whatever spice is your favorite.
Instructions:
Prepare your pan by using a baking sheet and line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top and spray lightly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
In a bowl, mix the brown sugar with your preferred spices. Pack the sugar thoroughly on the top and bottom of each slice of bacon. I twisted my slices of bacon in the photos for a beautiful effect.
Lay each piece of coated bacon on the rack and bake until done to your liking. Bacon will look browned and caramelized.
Crustless Roasted Tomato Quiche
Makes 8-10 servings
You may halve this recipe for a smaller family/group.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil, separated
8 large eggs
1 cup white or yellow onion, medium mince
8 oz. block shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup fontina cheese, shredded
10 oz. your favorite seasoned croutons, crushed
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 cup half-and-half
1 teaspoon chopped rosemary or fresh chopped parsley, or ¼ teaspoon of thyme
If using intensely flavored croutons remember they are commonly heavily salted, and the cheese usually imparts a salty flavor as well.
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil. Drizzle 1 Tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes and bake until soft and lightly browned. About 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool.
Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees. Lightly oil a 13x9 inch baking pan, or if using muffin cups lightly spray with oil.
In a small skillet, heat remaining olive oil and sauté onions until tender, about 5 to 8 minutes.
Spread croutons in the bottom of the pan or muffin cups then top with cheeses, onions, salt and pepper.
Mix eggs and half-and-half with a whisk until smooth; pour over cheese and crouton mixture. Top with tomatoes and fresh or dried herbs of your choice.
Bake until set, about 45 minutes if using 13x9" baking pan and if using muffin tins bake about 15 to 20 minutes. Eggs will puff and look golden and set. The easiest way to check for doneness is a thermometer and the eggs should be 165 degrees.
These are extra delicious garnished with sour cream or creme fraiche!
Reheat at 250 degrees until warm if serving the next day.
Deviled Eggs
Instant Pot Method:
6 large eggs
1 cup water
Place eggs on the rack that comes with the Instant Pot and add the water. Close, seal, and set the timer for 9 minutes.
Start, then quick release the pressure when done. Place in cold water for a few minutes then peel. Perfect eggs every time.
Slice the eggs in half length-wise and remove the yolks. Push the yolks through a strainer for a smoother look and mouth-feel.
Seasoning:
For 6 eggs, which equals 12 deviled eggs.
1 teaspoon vinegar
½ to 1 teaspoon of mustard. Either yellow or Dijon will do.
Salt and pepper to taste
You may add chopped pickles, pimento, herbs or whatever you like. Topping these with caviar adds a very special touch.
Serve in a special egg dish as seen in the photos if you have them!
Infused Maple Syrup
To complement the natural sweetness of your favorite maple syrup, adding bourbon or cinnamon creates a unique depth of flavor with notes of caramel or cinnamon.
Ingredients:
1 cup maple syrup
2 Tablespoons bourbon
Preparation Methods:
Low Alcohol Version- Bring the bourbon to a boil in a small saucepan for about one minute to evaporate the alcohol. Add maple syrup and serve with pancakes.
Bold Flavor- Simply stir or whisk the bourbon into the maple syrup and serve with pancakes.
Cinnamon- Omit the bourbon, add 1 cinnamon stick and 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder per 1 cup maple syrup. Simmer until flavors combine. Adjust to your liking. Remove cinnamon stick and serve.
Use your favorite from-scratch pancake recipe or mix and serve with a halved grapefruit sprinkled with sugar and a glass of fresh berries and melon. Furthermore, flowers in a small vase add life and color to the beautiful setting!