Ingredient: ground beef

Cajun Okra Rice

Recently we started helping at a farm share, we enjoy bringing home fresh, organic veggies! The first basket we received had many things in it, including okra, peppers, onions, celery leaves, and tomatoes.

We had never cooked with okra before, and so we were not sure what to do with it. We found several recipes on how to cook it, but we didn’t know what to pair it with. Adrian stayed home one morning when the rest of us went out and he surprised us with this mash-up of recipes he had found online. It is not spicy, but you can add more Cajun seasoning if you like the heat.

Empanadas

This is very similar to what our Spanish tutor said her mom made when Señora Swart was growing up in Argentina. Since 8 April is National Empanada Day, we decided to surprise her with some during our lesson.

Samosas

This was a favorite treat at all church potlucks! While this is very close to what I remember from Swaziland, I would love to be able to compare it and see how close we really are.

If you do not like spice, cut the spices in half for your first batch. These are not hot, but they are spicy.

Tamale Pie

Since we were planning on car camping, we wanted to try some new recipes. This turned out to be a favorite. It would also be a very easy week night meal.

Beef Samosas

I don’t remember having these until we lived in Swaziland. We often had them at church potlucks and, while similar, each family had a slightly different recipe. I preferred the ones with peas, but some used raisins instead.

This recipe is a very mild blend of spices. We often double, or triple the spices depending on who is making the. Fill the wontons with a generous helping of stuffing, but be careful not to overstuff.

For an appetizer, plan on two per person. For a main meal with a salad, plan on 4 or 5 per person.

Grandma Mabel’s Chili

We were given this recipe during the McGuire 2003 family reunion. We have adapted it a little, but tried to keep it very close to the original. Serve with saltines or your favorite corn bread.

Quick Chili

Needing a quick meal, we threw this together one night. If you have time, this is best if you prepare it a day ahead and then reduce to desired thickness while reheating the next day.

Serve with a green salad on the side and corn bread.

We use our homemade chili powder, but feel free to use your own special blend.

Baked Beans

The first time I remember ever having these was for our wedding rehearsal dinner.   We have enjoyed them often over the years.