Smokey Lentil Soup

What to do with the bones of a smoked chicken?  Or turkey, for that matter. Make a smoked stock. Using just the bones, a carrot, a celery, a bay leaf, some parsley, and an onion…you will have a great tasting …

Chicken, Barley, & Okra Stew

The first chicken and okra stew I should be posting is gumbo, yet, this stew holds a special place in my heart. Stomach. Well. One of my favorite aunts used to make a similar soup, Chicken & Okra, all the …

Crockpot Cooking: Navy Beans with Ham (aka Senate Bean Soup)

My Mom used to make this all the time, and I’m guessing her mother made it pretty often, too. I’m just keeping up with tradition. The original Senate bean soup has 2 cups of mashed added at the end as …

Crockpot Cooking: Beef & Barley Stew

If you are looking for a hearty beef stew like Grandma used to make, this might be the ticket.  I like to make a batch of Beef & Barley Stew at least once each winter.  The memorable flavor that results …