Thank you! If I'm going to make an hour long video I am going to try to pack in as much stuff as I can! I don't want to just seem like I'm using up air time for no reason LOL
I’m sure you already know this, but in case you have viewers that don’t: if you have fresh veg (carrots, celery, onion, bell peppers) in the fridge that you don’t think you’ll get to before they go bad, go ahead & prep them (slice and / or dice them). Measure them out in 1/2 cup to 1 cup amounts (or whatever amounts you typically use in recipes). Put them in freezer bags marked accordingly, such as: 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 sliced carrots, etc. Store them in the freezer until needed. You can either put the bag in the fridge overnight to thaw, or toss into soups as frozen. This way you don’t lose out on the food. (Helps too if you get a lot of veg on sale.)
It's especially nice when you need that mirepoix mixture as a soup base. It doesn't matter if the texture is off since you want it to essentially melt down as it cooks, anyway.
Omg THANK YOU for the burrito rolling tutorial! I always struggle with getting the sides tucked in enough. Love this longer video format as well. So helpful to have inspiration for meal ideas on a budget!
The VERY best way to reheat "bonus" (aka- leftover) pizza is on the stove top. Put your pizza in a skillet on low heat. Let it heat up for 10-15 minutes,watching so you don't burn the crust. When your crust is close to the crispiness you like, cover with a lid and let the toppings with cheese reheat. You can add extra cheese as well (which I always do). Enjoy! My husband and I actually prefer our bonus pizza over the pizza when it is first delivered. I watch all of your videos and would love to know if you like it. Since take out pizza isn't cheap, it is a great way to get extra value.
Pro-tip from a born and raised Cajun girl, you can make a larger batch of Roux and save the extra in a jar in your fridge for many months. Or, you can pre-make it for use later. I'm lazy and I actually buy the pre-made Richard's roux. You can mix it into your gumbo after you bring the liquid to boil. I like to pre-mix some in a bowl with some of the hot liquid to dilute it some before putting it in the gumbo pot. I hope that makes sense. I have my own personal variation on how I learned to cook gumbo from my mom & grandparents if you're interested, but the recipe you use is reasonably authentic. My gumbo is only a slight variation to make a great Jambalaya. As a transplant that now lives in the mid-west, the hardest part about getting the authentic flavor is that you can't get truly good Cajun sausage the further you get from outside south Louisiana. And Gumbo as well as red beans (that's served over rice) freeze and reheat great. I always try to make larger batches of both to freeze for my future self.
@renee356 have you ever done potato salad with gumbo? I saw a video on Instagram that said that's popular in Louisiana (especially New Orleans). The bulk of the comments seemed to agree.
Wanna know a neat trick???? Take your roux and put it in the oven at 350 ish for 1 hour, while you're chopping meat and veggies. You just stir it 3 or 4 times in the hour. At the end of the hour, mine is usually the color of a penny. Then I take it out and cook the vegetables in it and get it to the color I want, which only take another 15 minutes or so. It saves the 45 minutes of standing and stirring...
Do you know aquafaba? This is the whipped water from canned chickpeas, which can be used to replace eggs when baking savory things. To replace 1 egg, you need about 0.8 ounces of aquafaba, whisked with a tiny pinch of salt and a little lemon juice. This mixture can then be used as an egg.
Hi Rebecca! I've been watching you for a long time and I really enjoy your videos. I appreciate how down-to-earth and relatable you are. I also appreciate that you make meals on a budget that are realistic. You walk us through everything so even beginner cooks can try your recipes. Keep up the good work! 💙
Stardew Valley is so good for just chillin haha! Totally veg out and just cozy relaxing vibes. Also love your videos so much! You always inspire me to save even more money, and you're so creative!
i loved this video Rebecca , I love long videos !! But i do wish more recipes were tasted so we could see if they were what you had wanted them to taste like , the way you did before you moved !! But over all i do love all your videos , you do a wonderful job and i appreciated your hard efforts of making great money saving recipes !! i appreciate you gave us the recipe of the Emerel Cajun seasoning, and that we can split the family sized cornbread mix into 3 , 6 muffin recipes to save money !! I hope y’all are enjoying your new state and I hope y’all find your dream home soon !! It’s nice seeing Michael in some of your videos , also maybe sometimes video y’all enjoying your meal together , that would be a nice addition to your videos !! ❤️🙏🙋🏻🌈🌈
Thank you! I'm still getting used to the new place and new routines so I will get back to tasting the food more! I've been plating it up and then sitting down with the family to eat :)
Stardew Valley is my favorite waste a little time game. I'm like you I restart a lot. I'm playing the meadow land farm, and I'm in year 4 because I challenged myself to play this farm 10 years. Loved the long video I sit down relax and watch.
Checking in from South Louisiana! Your gumbo looks really good!! Now, I always heard growing up that if your gumbo didn't have okra, you didn't make gumbo lololol .... but not everyone loves okra and you are in Washington so that is FINE ❤ Typically we have EITHER chicken & andouille gumbo or "seafood gumbo" with shrimp & crab, but I've seen the new trend of mixing chicken and shrimp and I'm not mad about it 😄 Looks sooo yummy!!!
When I have a lot of potatoes I wash them off, poke some holes and microwave for 4 - 5 minutes pending on size. Then I freeze what I'm not using. I can peel one or air fry a smashed one. That justifies me buying a whole bag on sale. Michael is adorable. Love watching you two.
Also, as a Mexican individual here, I recommend Peruvian/Mayocoba beans over pinto beans. The flavor and creaminess of the bean is so much better then pinto. Just FYI
When I make hummus, I save and freeze the liquid (aqua faba). 1/4c of the bean water equals 1 whole egg, in most recipes. It also makes really good meringue for pies and meringue cookies. Any of the bean water will work. If you're making something they uses canned beans, like chili, save some of the seasoned liquid for making the corn bread. Give it a try 😊
Hiiiii girl hi! I haven't finished the video yet but wanted to say I'm so happy you posted today. Congrats on your first colab with Dan-o's! I love using their Cheesoning for cottage cheese bowls! I love the zero sugar Caramel Macchiato creamer with Chike coffee protein powder and unsweetened vanilla almond milk. Yum! I hope you have an amazing day!
My kiddos (and husband) love orange chicken too! I found it's easier and cheaper to do a 1:1 ratio of orange marmalade and bbq sauce. I sometimes add a splash of soy sauce if I have it. It turns out super good and we hardly ever have leftovers!
Absolutely love these videos, they really helped with meal planning for myself and my kids, and it also shows repurposing of different ingredients, which is great, I’m definitely going to have to try that bread, it looks delicious, tip to remember that something is still hot, I leave a pot holder on the top of it, it reminds me that in order to touch it I’m gonna need the potholder, like you, I went to go pick something up that was very hot and it wasn’t fun, love you guys, can’t wait for the next video
I haven't read your comments, but as a quick suggestion. What I use for chip clips and in the freezer for my frozen veggies is (medium) "binder clips." I get them from the office supply, and they stick to magnets very well, and they don't degrade in the freezer or in the sunshine or in the very hot vehicles..... they are awesome.
When your immersion blender dies and you need a replacement, consider getting one with a masher attachment. My sister found a good deal on a Braun Multiquick that has the masher/puree attachment and it works really well, which is great because it means I don't have to take my Salton Masha electric masher to use at hers at Thanksgiving and Christmas like I used to.
You should have shown us how you made your smashed potatoes. The little potatoes are best, clean, oil, & salt then bake. Once they are done, use the bottom of a har, cup or glass and gently smash them ....but don't make them flat! Put them back in oven on 400-450 with a bit of shredded cheese on top and brown (you can also boil).
so happy for a long video! i can watch little bits at a time during breaks and have something to look forward to throughout the day thank you! also thank you for reviewing the recipes (actually saying what wasn’t good, etc.)
Hi Rebecca! I’m pretty sure you probably lived around me in VA Beach! I just moved as well back to my hometown in the NE and I do have to say that I think we were spoiled in VA BCH with Dollar trees! They were so nice and organized there and LOVED the Dollar Tree Plus by the distribution center in Chesapeake. Now I’m living back where the Dollar Trees look like a disaster zone 😢
Funny enough, my partner and his mom both said the same things as you and Michael about the dominos Mac and cheese. I didn’t try it but now I’m thinking I’m not going to bother. ‘Let’s see how long we can avoid the grocery store’ is also one of my favorite games, I failed my goal in January but I’m hoping February I manage to do 4 trips max.
I will never understand why baked penne pasta with alfredo sauce is being marketed as "mac and cheese" LOL it doesn't even fit the name I hope you achieve your February goal!
You need to find someone with backyard chickens selling their eggs! That's how I'm combating the ridiculous price of eggs 😊 I live in rural Missouri farm country though so it may be easier for me than you. As always, love your content. Happy cooking!
@DollarTreeDinners Definitely stop in and check them out! I love supporting local small businesses and the quality is fabulous. I'm still getting eggs for $3 a dozen from my farm neighbors 🥰
Love this content and length of video. It fit the theme, if you get what I mean. It didn't feel rushed or anything like that. Hope ya all had fun at the wedding. Glad you were able to get to the open houses, no wasted time seeing with Realtor. Have a great week! ❤
Great tip! I love buying seasonings & other nonpershiable food items (pasta) at those stores. My go to stores are Ollie's, TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Burlington, Ross & Gabe's.
Great video! Thanks for sharing. Those eggs need their own shelf with a velvet pillow! About the smash potatoes ... may I suggest trying Pioneer Woman's Crash Hot Potatoes? We really like them. Safe travels, and enjoy your weekend away.
Yesss! Love seeing your videos pop up! I also add a can of tomatoes/rotel and beans if I have chili in the freezer. Such a cheap way to bulk it up! I definitely want to look for the “everything but the leftovers” seasoning from D Tree. Thanks 😊
If you still had/have crispy onions i recommend trying them on top of the potato soup, it brings it to the next lvl/ Also I am glad I am not the only one that forgets the top of the dutch oven coming out it hot also lol
Rebecca, all of your food looked awesome, especially the Gumbo, Loaded Breakfast Burrito and that Smash Burger! Nothing beats a good, home cooked cheeseburger. I like the toppings you had on your cheeseburgers, but I like adding a handful of smashed Green Olives on top of the cheese (I prefer Gouda), it's so good! A restaurant in Michigan (Bill Thomas Halo Burgers) used to sell their burgers back in the 70s with Green Olives on them, so I've made them that way ever since then.
Rebecca you are delightful! Love your enthusiasm and everything about your videos I made the Zuppa Toscana Wed night as had everything but the kale which as you know is cheap So that's all I had to buy for dinner this week (my husband works nights at a restaurant and we only eat dinner together weeknights on Wed)... Excellent. We both had 2 big bowls and at least 2 bowls left over for tonight Love your sweet doggies too I am 61 so my 3 sons are probably , your age. My oldest is 34 and lives in Seattle Your recipes are perfect since it is just the two of us. Have a great weekend Hi from SC!!!💕😊🏝️
Food Lion. Back to 1987: I am in the Navy and our ship (from Norfolk) pulls into Rotterdam. What do I see around Rotterdam? The Delhaize (Food Lion) lion insignia. I have to "adapt" some of your recipes b/c our DT here has been a complete MESS for months. Your channel and ideas are appreciated.
I love these ideas. I’m always looking for new ideas for family meals. I definitely need to start using up what I have, before going to the grocery store.
Suggestion for the orange chicken use orange marmalade and soy sauce and some brown sugar mix to sweetness you like. Add ginger and garlic. If you buy frozen, buy the Inovasian brand it's SO good. Also their general Tso chicken is quite spicy if you try it.
I love the long video!! So much great info and inspiration Rebecca!! Thank you!! 🤣Michael cracks me up!! You two make such a cute couple!! Love this!! Have a great time at the wedding! 💖🎉🎉💖
I just discovered your channel and I'm so happy I did!! I live in CT and like every where the prices for food is outrageous but here is out of control!! I live on an EXTREMELY tight budget so anywhere I can save a dollar definitely helps, so THANK YOU!!
I love the long videos. You enthusiastically saying "Yeah?" as Michael goofily dances by, made me laugh. You guys are awesome. Oh, and I agree, there is no situation where anyone needs 18 corn muffins. lol
Hi Rebecca ! Don't apologize for the video being long, I enjoyed it.I l especially like it when you and Michael interact with each other on video, it's really nice. Your potato soup looked wonderful (Yummy !) I can't wait to try to make a pot of it myself. If we don't see ya before the wedding have a great time and we'll see ya when y'all get back!
First, I just like to say I love all your videos and you can’t wait for the next one to be out. On a more serious note. I make sourdough bread and I learned a long time ago when you take the Dutch oven out of the oven and take the lid off, put the oven mitt on top of it that will remind you that the oven lid is hot and do not touch.
The only way I've been able to make smash potatoes turn out well is to use the baby gold variety. The skin is really thin and the smashed bits hold their soft texture (with the crispy edges) best. Red, white, and russet just don't work well. If I get a coupon or they are on sale, it's a nice treat. I like to use a melted butter/garlic/herb mixture plus some grated parmesan when I stick them under the broiler. 10/10 would recommend , but only with that specific type of potato!
Yes baby potato versions are much easier and better. I also microwave in a covered bowl with a splash of water instead of boiling, then smash and bake. Cuts down time and dishes! I use the microwave container again to store the ones I don’t finish.
@@ksoko045 microwave is a good shortcut for sure. I usually boil them whole for 20 min while I'm cooking everything else. They're so small, that's all it takes. Then I smash them down, add the butter herb mixture, parmesan, then broil until crispy.
@@DollarTreeDinners its a mixed bag. Thankfully its not an acute dangerous issue, rather a severe chronic issue ive had my entire life and will continue to have. We've found a possible therapy system that hopefully gets me the results i want, but that will take some time to see. I get to go home tomorrow morning, so im excited to finally be able to cook and decide my own meals again.
So excited you're going back to Albuquerque! That's my hometown and now I live in WA as well. I never heard of the restaurant you tried when you passed through there before but I just had to comment with my favorites every time I'm visiting. Ask any Albuquerque ex-pat where they miss the most and almost universally you will hear The Frontier. It's a must! Imo their ratio on breakfast burritos of eggs, hashbrowns, cheddar and green chile is perfection. They're famous for their Frontier cinnamon rolls. Other standouts I'd recommend are Barela's Coffee House, El Patio, Sadie's, and Monroe's. If you're splurging- Tucano's Brazilian Steak House. And since you like to try local fast food- Lotaburger [although locals are saying it's been sold to new owners and not as good as it used to be] and Bob's Burgers. I could go on and on. You must let us know where you went once you get back.
If you over mash your potatoes you can redeem them by whipping in a spoonful of baking powder while they're still hot. The chemical reaction fluffs them up without leaving the taste of baking powder. Do not use baking soda, though.
Hi Rebecca yes using older appliances like vintage is the best way to go I personally think! I have a few vintage appliances 😂kitchen gadgets that I found at a second hand store for super cheap and they are made to last
Hi Rebecca, hope you are having a great day. Hope I get to hear from you soon. You are one of my favorite people on TH-cam. sorry to add this to my comment Rebecca, but wanted you to know that I am totally blind and I love the fact that you describe everything you do in your videos. Thank you for reading the recipe amounts and describing what things look like really appreciate it. Also, you probably know this, but you can get boneless skinless chicken thighs at Walmart. They may be a little bit more expensive but it’s easier and you don’t have to do all the work. That’s what I always get.
"There is almost no situation in which I need 18 corn muffins". That statement had me laughing! I love watching your videos. As a North Carolinian, I was sad to see you moving so far away. (Even though I realize it's not like we are friends IRL, and it doesn't matter where on the planet you live, I'm still watching your videos. LOL). However, I'm happy to follow this new chapter in your life! Thank you for taking us along for the journey!
FYI your meat masher works great to make mashed potatoes. Also if you have a pastry blender they work great to make mashed potatoes and chop up eggs for egg
Get some souper cubes, I just got some and they're awesome! Range of sizes and so awesome to portion out and save your leftovers and even batch cooking. Portions store in a fraction of a space in the freezer.
Her method is actually really helpful for small freezer storage and quick defrosting. Those souper cubes blocks take up way more space in the freezer than flattening and stacking.
Hi Rebecca! Happy Friday! As a viewer from the EU I would love to see you in the store actually shopping or just show us around a bit. I know there are many many videos but I love your take on things. ☺️ Thanks for the inspo btw. I already know what I'm going to cook during the weekend. ☺️
Do you wash out your freezer bags and reuse them? I never have, but my great-gma did and it's such a great way to save a bit more. I'm going to start doing that!
Everything looked delicious as usual miss! I would love to see some more seafood dishes when and if you can! Teryaki Salmon, lemon butter cod with crushed ritz on top , fresh clams w/ a garlic wine sauce, coconut shrimp 🍤. Now that I'm typing this I remember in a video you expressed how you weren't really a fan of seafood 🙈 Woopsie!
Michael loves seafood! and I'm learning to enjoy it. The hurdle is always the cost. Shrimp is pretty affordable, depending on what I put it in, but a lot of other types of seafood run $10-$12 minimum so I know how cost prohibitive that can be
Love this longer video YUM and LOVE that you play Stardew! I'm retired and play everyday. I can't count the times I've restarted the farm. I've used all the layouts and never get married or have kids. I like to mix it up with challenges like only growing fruit or only leaving the farm once a month. I can't believe I'm not completely burned out but I'm not. Best game ever. And speaking of the best, thanks for all the yummy cooking! 😁
I use a hand mixer to whip my potatoes, which gets pretty good results (of course with butter and milk). Thank you for your videos, I enjoy watching them. :)
Rebecca, the smashed potatoes work best with waxy potatoes such as red or Yukon gold potatoes. The smaller ones are best, but you can cut larger ones in half or quarters before you roast them. I hope that's helpful
I really enjoy your videos and I don't find them to long. One of my fav's with chicken is broccoli,rice,cream of chicken soup,cheese casserole. Marinated Teriyaki chicken grilled with sides or make rice bowl, I also make chicken gravy over rice or mashed potatoes with sides. Hopefully this gives some ideas.
Also you don't need a potato masher just use the hamburger break up contraption. I use mine as a potato masher. I'm with you on what Alton brown calls Unitaskers. Good for you using what you got.
Great video! I made gumbo for the first time for New Years. I had never eaten it before either, and the roux process was totally intimidating! However, I literally pulled up a stool and sat and stirred for an hour and had success! My goodness it was SO dang delish! I was proud if myself and am thinking about trying cassoulet next. Have you ever made that?
Oh yes, I was just on the verge of starting a new one yet again LOL I'm on summer year 2 and it's been too long. Once I settle into routine I'm like nope, start again
If this video was twice as long, I would still be *thrilled*. I adore this format.
you are so kind!
im only about 12 minutes in, but i agree. great format! IRL is so much more enjoyable to watch than overproduced TV. Cheers!
You have to be the only person that can have a video over an hour that is a must see! Thanks for all of your delicious meals!
Thank you! If I'm going to make an hour long video I am going to try to pack in as much stuff as I can! I don't want to just seem like I'm using up air time for no reason LOL
agreed!
Literally
Same. If it runs over 45 minutes I skip it, but I love her content so I watch every single video. Great content!
Agree!
I love how excited you all are when Michael’s kids are there. You put a lot of thoughts in cooking for them.
I’m sure you already know this, but in case you have viewers that don’t: if you have fresh veg (carrots, celery, onion, bell peppers) in the fridge that you don’t think you’ll get to before they go bad, go ahead & prep them (slice and / or dice them). Measure them out in 1/2 cup to 1 cup amounts (or whatever amounts you typically use in recipes). Put them in freezer bags marked accordingly, such as: 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 sliced carrots, etc. Store them in the freezer until needed. You can either put the bag in the fridge overnight to thaw, or toss into soups as frozen. This way you don’t lose out on the food. (Helps too if you get a lot of veg on sale.)
It's especially nice when you need that mirepoix mixture as a soup base. It doesn't matter if the texture is off since you want it to essentially melt down as it cooks, anyway.
Omg THANK YOU for the burrito rolling tutorial! I always struggle with getting the sides tucked in enough. Love this longer video format as well. So helpful to have inspiration for meal ideas on a budget!
You’re welcome! Glad to help you out with some burrito rolling tips! Working at Taco Bell has taught me valuable skills lol
The VERY best way to reheat "bonus" (aka- leftover) pizza is on the stove top. Put your pizza in a skillet on low heat. Let it heat up for 10-15 minutes,watching so you don't burn the crust. When your crust is close to the crispiness you like, cover with a lid and let the toppings with cheese reheat. You can add extra cheese as well (which I always do). Enjoy!
My husband and I actually prefer our bonus pizza over the pizza when it is first delivered.
I watch all of your videos and would love to know if you like it. Since take out pizza isn't cheap, it is a great way to get extra value.
I used to do it that way until I got an air fryer. They're both really good for leftover pizza
Pro-tip from a born and raised Cajun girl, you can make a larger batch of Roux and save the extra in a jar in your fridge for many months. Or, you can pre-make it for use later. I'm lazy and I actually buy the pre-made Richard's roux.
You can mix it into your gumbo after you bring the liquid to boil. I like to pre-mix some in a bowl with some of the hot liquid to dilute it some before putting it in the gumbo pot. I hope that makes sense. I have my own personal variation on how I learned to cook gumbo from my mom & grandparents if you're interested, but the recipe you use is reasonably authentic. My gumbo is only a slight variation to make a great Jambalaya. As a transplant that now lives in the mid-west, the hardest part about getting the authentic flavor is that you can't get truly good Cajun sausage the further you get from outside south Louisiana.
And Gumbo as well as red beans (that's served over rice) freeze and reheat great. I always try to make larger batches of both to freeze for my future self.
I love the tip of premaking the roux! and thank you for your humble cajun stamp of approval on my gumbo haha
@renee356 have you ever done potato salad with gumbo? I saw a video on Instagram that said that's popular in Louisiana (especially New Orleans). The bulk of the comments seemed to agree.
Please keep these long videos coming I really like them❤❤❤
This one for me was teetering on too long, but I packed a ton of stuff in there :)
Wanna know a neat trick???? Take your roux and put it in the oven at 350 ish for 1 hour, while you're chopping meat and veggies. You just stir it 3 or 4 times in the hour. At the end of the hour, mine is usually the color of a penny. Then I take it out and cook the vegetables in it and get it to the color I want, which only take another 15 minutes or so. It saves the 45 minutes of standing and stirring...
Do you know aquafaba? This is the whipped water from canned chickpeas, which can be used to replace eggs when baking savory things. To replace 1 egg, you need about 0.8 ounces of aquafaba, whisked with a tiny pinch of salt and a little lemon juice. This mixture can then be used as an egg.
You can also substitute one tablespoon of oil or mayonnaise for an egg.
Another great egg replacement is chia seeds. You soak about a table spoon in water until you get a gel-like consistency and use it just like an egg.
I learned about aquafaba from this channel! Mentioned it in an older video
For baking, Flax eggs can also be a good substitute! Used to be vegan and got very familiar with this lol
Hi Rebecca! I've been watching you for a long time and I really enjoy your videos. I appreciate how down-to-earth and relatable you are. I also appreciate that you make meals on a budget that are realistic. You walk us through everything so even beginner cooks can try your recipes. Keep up the good work! 💙
Stardew Valley is so good for just chillin haha! Totally veg out and just cozy relaxing vibes. Also love your videos so much! You always inspire me to save even more money, and you're so creative!
Dave the diver was probably one of my favorite games, it took me a while to get into stardew but now I really love it.
I like that you are always smiling ❤😊
I really love your idea to film all hauls and meals for January! I truly appreciate the thought and effort you put into your videos!
i loved this video Rebecca , I love long videos !! But i do wish more recipes were tasted so we could see if they were what you had wanted them to taste like , the way you did before you moved !! But over all i do love all your videos , you do a wonderful job and i appreciated your hard efforts of making great money saving recipes !! i appreciate you gave us the recipe of the Emerel Cajun seasoning, and that we can split the family sized cornbread mix into 3 , 6 muffin recipes to save money !! I hope y’all are enjoying your new state and I hope y’all find your dream home soon !! It’s nice seeing Michael in some of your videos , also maybe sometimes video y’all enjoying your meal together , that would be a nice addition to your videos !! ❤️🙏🙋🏻🌈🌈
Thank you! I'm still getting used to the new place and new routines so I will get back to tasting the food more! I've been plating it up and then sitting down with the family to eat :)
Stardew Valley is my favorite waste a little time game. I'm like you I restart a lot. I'm playing the meadow land farm, and I'm in year 4 because I challenged myself to play this farm 10 years. Loved the long video I sit down relax and watch.
Checking in from South Louisiana! Your gumbo looks really good!! Now, I always heard growing up that if your gumbo didn't have okra, you didn't make gumbo lololol .... but not everyone loves okra and you are in Washington so that is FINE ❤
Typically we have EITHER chicken & andouille gumbo or "seafood gumbo" with shrimp & crab, but I've seen the new trend of mixing chicken and shrimp and I'm not mad about it 😄 Looks sooo yummy!!!
When I have a lot of potatoes I wash them off, poke some holes and microwave for 4 - 5 minutes pending on size. Then I freeze what I'm not using. I can peel one or air fry a smashed one. That justifies me buying a whole bag on sale. Michael is adorable. Love watching you two.
Also, as a Mexican individual here, I recommend Peruvian/Mayocoba beans over pinto beans. The flavor and creaminess of the bean is so much better then pinto. Just FYI
Thanks for that suggestion, I’ll look for them myself.
Gotta look out for them 😊
They are so good and very creamy! I can my own now.
When we have done smashed potato we have used the little ones that come in a bag. They seem to work better
So exciting to see your videos. Thank you for what you do! Gives so much ideas for my own food making.
You are so welcome! I love sharing ideas with you all ❤️
When I make hummus, I save and freeze the liquid (aqua faba). 1/4c of the bean water equals 1 whole egg, in most recipes. It also makes really good meringue for pies and meringue cookies. Any of the bean water will work. If you're making something they uses canned beans, like chili, save some of the seasoned liquid for making the corn bread. Give it a try 😊
Hiiiii girl hi! I haven't finished the video yet but wanted to say I'm so happy you posted today. Congrats on your first colab with Dan-o's! I love using their Cheesoning for cottage cheese bowls! I love the zero sugar Caramel Macchiato creamer with Chike coffee protein powder and unsweetened vanilla almond milk. Yum! I hope you have an amazing day!
Try Acre homestead, she does a lot of cooking, gardening, canning, her name is Becky. Also Ruth Anne Zimmerman!
My kiddos (and husband) love orange chicken too! I found it's easier and cheaper to do a 1:1 ratio of orange marmalade and bbq sauce. I sometimes add a splash of soy sauce if I have it. It turns out super good and we hardly ever have leftovers!
Absolutely love these videos, they really helped with meal planning for myself and my kids, and it also shows repurposing of different ingredients, which is great, I’m definitely going to have to try that bread, it looks delicious, tip to remember that something is still hot, I leave a pot holder on the top of it, it reminds me that in order to touch it I’m gonna need the potholder, like you, I went to go pick something up that was very hot and it wasn’t fun, love you guys, can’t wait for the next video
That’s such a great tip about the potholder! My hands say thank you :)
I haven't read your comments, but as a quick suggestion. What I use for chip clips and in the freezer for my frozen veggies is (medium) "binder clips." I get them from the office supply, and they stick to magnets very well, and they don't degrade in the freezer or in the sunshine or in the very hot vehicles..... they are awesome.
Your culinary skills (deboning, etc) are quite good. Rebecca is a trad wife and what a blessing to her family!
Love the long videos🎉
I didn’t mean to make this one so long lol but 9 days is a lot of cooking time
Sour cream, cheese, ranch and hot sauce. I put that on pretty much everything so I feel ya.
Thks.for sharing these recipes they all look great.
I hope you try them out!
When your immersion blender dies and you need a replacement, consider getting one with a masher attachment. My sister found a good deal on a Braun Multiquick that has the masher/puree attachment and it works really well, which is great because it means I don't have to take my Salton Masha electric masher to use at hers at Thanksgiving and Christmas like I used to.
You should have shown us how you made your smashed potatoes. The little potatoes are best, clean, oil, & salt then bake. Once they are done, use the bottom of a har, cup or glass and gently smash them ....but don't make them flat! Put them back in oven on 400-450 with a bit of shredded cheese on top and brown (you can also boil).
so happy for a long video! i can watch little bits at a time during breaks and have something to look forward to throughout the day
thank you!
also thank you for reviewing the recipes (actually saying what wasn’t good, etc.)
Hi Rebecca! I’m pretty sure you probably lived around me in VA Beach! I just moved as well back to my hometown in the NE and I do have to say that I think we were spoiled in VA BCH with Dollar trees! They were so nice and organized there and LOVED the Dollar Tree Plus by the distribution center in Chesapeake. Now I’m living back where the Dollar Trees look like a disaster zone 😢
I live in California and our dollar tree looks like a disaster zone also. Most of the shelves are empty.
Love this style of video! Can't wait for the orange chicken recipe!!
Funny enough, my partner and his mom both said the same things as you and Michael about the dominos Mac and cheese. I didn’t try it but now I’m thinking I’m not going to bother.
‘Let’s see how long we can avoid the grocery store’ is also one of my favorite games, I failed my goal in January but I’m hoping February I manage to do 4 trips max.
I will never understand why baked penne pasta with alfredo sauce is being marketed as "mac and cheese" LOL it doesn't even fit the name
I hope you achieve your February goal!
@ let alone 5 cheese Mac and cheese! It’s like they think we really don’t know what we’re doing food wise and we will just accept any old garbage
You need to find someone with backyard chickens selling their eggs! That's how I'm combating the ridiculous price of eggs 😊 I live in rural Missouri farm country though so it may be easier for me than you. As always, love your content. Happy cooking!
I saw someone advertising eggs on the side of the street yesterday and almost stopped to ask how much LOL
@DollarTreeDinners Definitely stop in and check them out! I love supporting local small businesses and the quality is fabulous. I'm still getting eggs for $3 a dozen from my farm neighbors 🥰
And it’s just going to get worse over the next few years. It’s a shame
Listening as I work and this has been so great to help me come up with ideas for my grocery order I need to do this weekend.
That’s great! I hope you find some good things for your grocery haul
The gumbo looked awesome.
Love this content and length of video. It fit the theme, if you get what I mean. It didn't feel rushed or anything like that. Hope ya all had fun at the wedding. Glad you were able to get to the open houses, no wasted time seeing with Realtor. Have a great week! ❤
Hi Rebecca, hope you are having a great day. Hope I get to hear from you soon. You are one of my favorite people on TH-cam.
Thank you so much! You make my day! ❤️
I bought my Smoked Paprika at Home Goods pretty cheap. You can try looking there, TJX or Marshalls.
Great tip! I love buying seasonings & other nonpershiable food items (pasta) at those stores. My go to stores are Ollie's, TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Burlington, Ross & Gabe's.
Great video! Thanks for sharing. Those eggs need their own shelf with a velvet pillow! About the smash potatoes ... may I suggest trying Pioneer Woman's Crash Hot Potatoes? We really like them. Safe travels, and enjoy your weekend away.
I had to take a break midway through, but surprisingly I watched an entire hour long video and didn't even feel bored once.
Yesss! Love seeing your videos pop up! I also add a can of tomatoes/rotel and beans if I have chili in the freezer. Such a cheap way to bulk it up! I definitely want to look for the “everything but the leftovers” seasoning from D Tree. Thanks 😊
You make deboning that chicken look so easy lol. Can’t wait for your video on orange chicken. I tried to make it and it was horrible 🤣
If you still had/have crispy onions i recommend trying them on top of the potato soup, it brings it to the next lvl/ Also I am glad I am not the only one that forgets the top of the dutch oven coming out it hot also lol
yes! I've burned my hand so bad going to pick up the lid.
Rebecca, all of your food looked awesome, especially the Gumbo, Loaded Breakfast Burrito and that Smash Burger! Nothing beats a good, home cooked cheeseburger. I like the toppings you had on your cheeseburgers, but I like adding a handful of smashed Green Olives on top of the cheese (I prefer Gouda), it's so good! A restaurant in Michigan (Bill Thomas Halo Burgers) used to sell their burgers back in the 70s with Green Olives on them, so I've made them that way ever since then.
Rebecca you are delightful! Love your enthusiasm and everything about your videos
I made the Zuppa Toscana Wed night as had everything but the kale which as you know is cheap
So that's all I had to buy for dinner this week (my husband works nights at a restaurant and we only eat dinner together weeknights on Wed)...
Excellent. We both had 2 big bowls and at least 2 bowls left over for tonight
Love your sweet doggies too
I am 61 so my 3 sons are probably , your age. My oldest is 34 and lives in Seattle
Your recipes are perfect since it is just the two of us.
Have a great weekend
Hi from SC!!!💕😊🏝️
The Gumbo looked great 😊
Food Lion. Back to 1987: I am in the Navy and our ship (from Norfolk) pulls into Rotterdam. What do I see around Rotterdam? The Delhaize (Food Lion) lion insignia. I have to "adapt" some of your recipes b/c our DT here has been a complete MESS for months. Your channel and ideas are appreciated.
I love these ideas. I’m always looking for new ideas for family meals. I definitely need to start using up what I have, before going to the grocery store.
Loving these!! I’ve been using up my pantry and fridge/freezer this month too
Suggestion for the orange chicken use orange marmalade and soy sauce and some brown sugar mix to sweetness you like. Add ginger and garlic. If you buy frozen, buy the Inovasian brand it's SO good. Also their general Tso chicken is quite spicy if you try it.
I love Innovasian meals, they are so good. I especially like that they pack the sauce separately
I love the long video!! So much great info and inspiration Rebecca!! Thank you!! 🤣Michael cracks me up!! You two make such a cute couple!! Love this!! Have a great time at the wedding! 💖🎉🎉💖
I just discovered your channel and I'm so happy I did!! I live in CT and like every where the prices for food is outrageous but here is out of control!! I live on an EXTREMELY tight budget so anywhere I can save a dollar definitely helps, so THANK YOU!!
The gumbo looks so delicious!!!
You can do your entire roux process in the oven, only having to stir a few times.
Don’t tell anyone, I do it in the microwave 🤫
Oh that’s great!!
I love the long videos. You enthusiastically saying "Yeah?" as Michael goofily dances by, made me laugh. You guys are awesome. Oh, and I agree, there is no situation where anyone needs 18 corn muffins. lol
Hi Rebecca ! Don't apologize for the video being long, I enjoyed it.I l especially like it when you and Michael interact with each other on video, it's really nice.
Your potato soup looked wonderful (Yummy !) I can't wait to try to make a pot of it myself.
If we don't see ya before the wedding have a great time and we'll see ya when y'all get back!
First, I just like to say I love all your videos and you can’t wait for the next one to be out. On a more serious note. I make sourdough bread and I learned a long time ago when you take the Dutch oven out of the oven and
take the lid off, put the oven mitt on top of it that will remind you that the oven lid is hot and do not touch.
The only way I've been able to make smash potatoes turn out well is to use the baby gold variety. The skin is really thin and the smashed bits hold their soft texture (with the crispy edges) best. Red, white, and russet just don't work well. If I get a coupon or they are on sale, it's a nice treat. I like to use a melted butter/garlic/herb mixture plus some grated parmesan when I stick them under the broiler. 10/10 would recommend , but only with that specific type of potato!
that's good to know! maybe i'll try them again if I see the baby golds on sale.
Yes baby potato versions are much easier and better. I also microwave in a covered bowl with a splash of water instead of boiling, then smash and bake. Cuts down time and dishes!
I use the microwave container again to store the ones I don’t finish.
@@ksoko045 microwave is a good shortcut for sure. I usually boil them whole for 20 min while I'm cooking everything else. They're so small, that's all it takes. Then I smash them down, add the butter herb mixture, parmesan, then broil until crispy.
Rebecca, everything looked very tasty. Hope you find even better deals on your next shopping adventure.
so excited to watch this! i've been stuck in the hospital the past week and watched your entire backlog
I hope it’s nothing serious and that you get better soon! ❤️❤️
Best wishes on a speedy recovery! They are great watches, my dad absolutely loved watching them while he was on hospice care.
@@DollarTreeDinners its a mixed bag. Thankfully its not an acute dangerous issue, rather a severe chronic issue ive had my entire life and will continue to have.
We've found a possible therapy system that hopefully gets me the results i want, but that will take some time to see.
I get to go home tomorrow morning, so im excited to finally be able to cook and decide my own meals again.
I hope you are feeling better now🙏
I agree,I just just keep watching !❤❤❤❤❤❤
I love your new format. Keep up the great work.
So excited you're going back to Albuquerque! That's my hometown and now I live in WA as well. I never heard of the restaurant you tried when you passed through there before but I just had to comment with my favorites every time I'm visiting. Ask any Albuquerque ex-pat where they miss the most and almost universally you will hear The Frontier. It's a must! Imo their ratio on breakfast burritos of eggs, hashbrowns, cheddar and green chile is perfection. They're famous for their Frontier cinnamon rolls. Other standouts I'd recommend are Barela's Coffee House, El Patio, Sadie's, and Monroe's. If you're splurging- Tucano's Brazilian Steak House. And since you like to try local fast food- Lotaburger [although locals are saying it's been sold to new owners and not as good as it used to be] and Bob's Burgers. I could go on and on. You must let us know where you went once you get back.
Thank you so much. This video is so worth to watch. Love your ideas ❤️ I'm doing the "let's see how long it takes for us to go shopping "
I absolutely love your videos, even as background noise with a few ideas for dinner, I’m so impressed with your creativity!
I am so glad you’re enjoying the content! 😊
Hi Rebecca, i really enjoyed this vlog, especially the longer format. Have a great weekend ❤
Thanks for watching! I had fun making this one!
If you over mash your potatoes you can redeem them by whipping in a spoonful of baking powder while they're still hot. The chemical reaction fluffs them up without leaving the taste of baking powder. Do not use baking soda, though.
Those meals looked delish. Such great ideas too. I'm always running out of ideas and you come up with the best meals.
You can use your meat chopper tool as a potato masher if you don’t want to break out the immersion blender.
Hi Rebecca yes using older appliances like vintage is the best way to go I personally think! I have a few vintage appliances 😂kitchen gadgets that I found at a second hand store for super cheap and they are made to last
Hi Rebecca, hope you are having a great day. Hope I get to hear from you soon. You are one of my favorite people on TH-cam. sorry to add this to my comment Rebecca, but wanted you to know that I am totally blind and I love the fact that you describe everything you do in your videos. Thank you for reading the recipe amounts and describing what things look like really appreciate it. Also, you probably know this, but you can get boneless skinless chicken thighs at Walmart. They may be a little bit more expensive but it’s easier and you don’t have to do all the work. That’s what I always get.
I loved the long video!!!! All the meals look so tasty! Love from Texas ❤
"There is almost no situation in which I need 18 corn muffins". That statement had me laughing! I love watching your videos. As a North Carolinian, I was sad to see you moving so far away. (Even though I realize it's not like we are friends IRL, and it doesn't matter where on the planet you live, I'm still watching your videos. LOL). However, I'm happy to follow this new chapter in your life! Thank you for taking us along for the journey!
FYI your meat masher works great to make mashed potatoes. Also if you have a pastry blender they work great to make mashed potatoes and chop up eggs for egg
Get some souper cubes, I just got some and they're awesome! Range of sizes and so awesome to portion out and save your leftovers and even batch cooking. Portions store in a fraction of a space in the freezer.
Her method is actually really helpful for small freezer storage and quick defrosting. Those souper cubes blocks take up way more space in the freezer than flattening and stacking.
I love long videos. Thanks for putting all the work in.
Love all these recipes. Looking forward to Orange Chicken recipe. Such great tips. Thank you.
Your videos are so good, I didn't realize it was long.
Dan-o's is one of the best seasonings out their hands down
Hi Rebecca! Happy Friday! As a viewer from the EU I would love to see you in the store actually shopping or just show us around a bit. I know there are many many videos but I love your take on things. ☺️ Thanks for the inspo btw. I already know what I'm going to cook during the weekend. ☺️
I did guess eggs haha. I was shopping yesterday.
Do you wash out your freezer bags and reuse them? I never have, but my great-gma did and it's such a great way to save a bit more. I'm going to start doing that!
I do! I need to get one of those bag drying racks though
@@DollarTreeDinnersI wash mine out and reuse them , my mom did it and so did my grandma and my great grandmother 😊😊 . They are getting expensive.
Everything looked delicious as usual miss! I would love to see some more seafood dishes when and if you can! Teryaki Salmon, lemon butter cod with crushed ritz on top , fresh clams w/ a garlic wine sauce, coconut shrimp 🍤. Now that I'm typing this I remember in a video you expressed how you weren't really a fan of seafood 🙈 Woopsie!
Michael loves seafood! and I'm learning to enjoy it. The hurdle is always the cost. Shrimp is pretty affordable, depending on what I put it in, but a lot of other types of seafood run $10-$12 minimum so I know how cost prohibitive that can be
Love this longer video YUM and LOVE that you play Stardew! I'm retired and play everyday. I can't count the times I've restarted the farm. I've used all the layouts and never get married or have kids. I like to mix it up with challenges like only growing fruit or only leaving the farm once a month. I can't believe I'm not completely burned out but I'm not. Best game ever.
And speaking of the best, thanks for all the yummy cooking! 😁
I use a hand mixer to whip my potatoes, which gets pretty good results (of course with butter and milk). Thank you for your videos, I enjoy watching them. :)
Your gumbo looks so good!!! I've always wanted to make it! I think I will now! 🍲🍛
Yay!!! I’ve been waiting for your video this week!!!
Hope you enjoy it!
Yay!! I have been waiting too, then see it was a long one! Woop woop!!!!! 🙌🏼 ❤
Love this video format!
Rebecca, the smashed potatoes work best with waxy potatoes such as red or Yukon gold potatoes. The smaller ones are best, but you can cut larger ones in half or quarters before you roast them. I hope that's helpful
I really enjoy your videos and I don't find them to long.
One of my fav's with chicken is broccoli,rice,cream of chicken soup,cheese casserole. Marinated Teriyaki chicken grilled with sides or make rice bowl, I also make chicken gravy over rice or mashed potatoes with sides. Hopefully this gives some ideas.
Fantastic long video ❤🎉 loved it and seeing how you fix up the meals! 🎉
Also you don't need a potato masher just use the hamburger break up contraption. I use mine as a potato masher. I'm with you on what Alton brown calls Unitaskers. Good for you using what you got.
Hi Rebeca it makes me happy to see you post a video and happier that its a long one love it ❤always inspiring!
Enjoyed this video. Gumbo looked great.
Burgers looked very good. All were great recipes.
❤❤❤
Great video! I made gumbo for the first time for New Years. I had never eaten it before either, and the roux process was totally intimidating! However, I literally pulled up a stool and sat and stirred for an hour and had success! My goodness it was SO dang delish! I was proud if myself and am thinking about trying cassoulet next. Have you ever made that?
I love the Forest farm. Do give it a go, it's so cozy!
Oh yes, I was just on the verge of starting a new one yet again LOL I'm on summer year 2 and it's been too long. Once I settle into routine I'm like nope, start again
I am loving your videos lately ❤
I always take a butter knife to scrape off burnt parts in the sink. Lol