I had a hard time deciding what to write about tonight, because I have a few topics floating around my head, and couldn’t choose. So even though I think tonight’s two topics are SO good they each deserve their own post, I’m going to combine them.
First up, my beloved Oprah. I love Oprah. And when Oprah says she loves something, she’s usually right on target. Now unfortunately, sometimes the things she loves are $3,000 watches and cashmere sweaters, but she also loves things that are cheap too, and tonight is your lucky night.
Recently, Oprah declared Dale and Thomas Popcorn as her favorite popcorn. As first, I didn’t pay much attention, since I don’t usually care for canned or bagged prepopped popcorn. But then I saw an offer where they were giving away 2 small bags as a “get to know us” offer this month (pay only shipping and handling). I succumbed and they arrived while we were on vacation. One is Chocolate Drizzle Popcorn, and the other, Peanut Butter. Now, not only do I typically not care for canned or bagged prepopped popcorn, I’m not a big fan of the sweet and salty mix either. I know, picky, ain’t I?
I decided to save the chocolate one to bring as a treat to my Mom, who’s recovering in the hospital from surgery, and grabbed the peanut butter one to try this afternoon. Well, the bag is empty. Oh.My.God. So, so good. The popcorn is soft and fresh and the peanut butter is oh so creamy. I’d tell you to go order yourself some now (and now I have to as well since I finished my bag!), but you’ve got to finish reading here first … then GO ORDER YOUR FREE POPCORN NOW – that’s an order.
Now tonight’s dinner … the weather the past few days has been chilly and the air conditioners have finally been turned off. At long last, it is time for one of my favorite things about the Fall season – soup weather! So, of course, I buy the ingredients to make soup and today it’s in the low 60s. Murphy’s Law and all that. But I forged ahead, making a new recipe from Rachael Ray’s 30 Minute Get Real Meals: Cream of Cheddar Soup. Again, Oh.My.God. Velvety smooth and creamy, it went down nice and easy. So quick to make, and you must, just must, make it. The Husband, who is pretty particular about soups, loved it. Definitely making it many times this Soup Season.
Enough about my discoveries … what’s got YOU saying Oh.My.God these days?
Until tomorrow…
A year ago today … I didn’t post.
P.S. Thanks a million for all the well wishes for my Mom and Nicholas. She had her surgery and is resting in her room, exhausted from a long day. I’m going to pop in tomorrow for a little while with the Dale & Thomas popcorn. And Nicholas is doing better today, so we’ve survived another ear infection.
Cream of Cheddar Soup
Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray
Serves 4
2 tablespoons butter
1 large yellow onion diced
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper flakes
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons flour
1 quart chicken broth (that’s four cups for other non-math whizzes)
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups good quality aged Cheddar cheese, grated
Heat a soup pot over medium heat with the butter. When the butter melts, add the onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and cumin. Cook for 3 minutes. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute more. Whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bring up to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. To finish, turn the heat off. While whisking, add the grated Cheddar cheese in 3 additions. Serve the soup immediately.
Glad to hear everyone is well and on their way to recovery.
I had Dale & Thomas a year ago (gift from a friend) and like you not a fan of the bagged popcorn. 2 hours later no popcorn left. BTW they have a store in Teaneck.
The Sister In-Law
I loved the popcorn too.
They are opening a store closer to use. Remind me to tell you later.
The Neighbor (wife)
Oh, you’re tempting me with that soup! I’m all set to make a cheddar soup from the November CL, but that looks really good and I happen to have some cream. But no! I need to eat lighter tonight, so I’ll try the CL and file this one away for later. :) Mmmm….
What’s got me saying Oh My God is Nutella. I had it for the first time last weekend and holy cow is that stuff gooooood.
Cate,
I made the soup tonight and it was “yummo” – thanks!
The Sister-in-Law – Glad I’m not the only guilty one who polished off the bag so quickly. ;)
The Neighbor Wife – can’t wait to visit it, but that might be very dangerous.
Alysha – You’ve got to make it!
Sara – wow, all this time without Nutella? You poor thing! Nutella Cake, Nutella Cupcakes, Crepes with Nutella – you better get going! ;)
Cheryl – isn’t it great?! I think it’s the chicken broth that gives it that surprise flavor layer.
I’ve been hankering for these for a while now…
http://store.everlastboxing.com/hp-training-gloves-pink.html
(I did a little OMG when I first saw them, because? Pink!!)