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Easy Homemade Coleslaw

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Coleslaw is an all-American side dish and a summer must-have.  I can’t imagine enjoying a cook out without having a spoonful of coleslaw on my plate. This recipe is sweet, creamy and tangy. The secret to great coleslaw is that the finer the cabbage is cut, the better the coleslaw will taste. So make sure you have either a really sharp knife (be careful when using) or a mandolin to shred your cabbage. This recipe for homemade coleslaw is best when prepared the day before, so that all of the flavors can marinate well into the cabbage.

Homemade Coleslaw

Ingredients

1 Large Head of Cabbage (finely shredded)
1 Large Carrot (peeled and shredded)
1/2 Cup Mayonnaise
3 Tablespoons White Vinegar
2 Tablespoons of White Sugar (or 1 tablespoon of your favorite sugar substitute)
1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper

Instructions
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar and black pepper. Mix well. Then, add the cabbage, a handful at a time, tossing it to coat the cabbage. Now, add the shredded carrot and mix well. Store in the refrigerator for at least two hours. For the best results refrigerate over night. Give the coleslaw a toss before serving.

Posted by Lorraine

3 Barbecue Grilling Must-Haves

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When spring is approaching, and 70 or 80 degree weather starts to become the norm, it triggers my desire to bring the barbecue grill out.   I don’t like using propane, so instead I use charcoal and sometimes I even use lava rocks.  What I do not enjoy is having to clean the grill after every use.  I also become frustrated when I overcook  or under cook certain meats.  That has been extremely costly in the past.  I found a few products that help rectify these issues, and they’re pretty affordable too.

BBQ Grill & Baking Mats

My first amazing find was an “As Seen on TV” product called a grill mat. It will help save me from spending countless hours in the backyard cleaning my grill grates.  They’re non-stick plates that go on top of your grill and create an easy to clean cooking surface. It’s advertised as free from harmful chemicals like PFOA. I like how it can be used indoors as well.

Barbecue Meat Thermometer

This barbecue meat thermometer solves the problem of under or overcooked meats on your barbecue grill. Use it to prepare your meats to the precise temperature you want every time.  Just stick it in your steak or burger and go on enjoying your family and the outdoors.  There’s a clear digital reading that tells you exactly when the meat is cooked to your desired temperature — you don’t have to cut the meat to check if its ready. There’s also an auto-off feature that saves energy.

Charcoal Lighter (No More Lighter Fluid)

I have always used lighter fluid in the past to light my charcoals.  The down side is that at times I have over doused the charcoal and no matter what I cooked it always tasted a bit like that fuel.  Not any more, thanks to this Rapidfire Chimney Starter. With this product I can safely and accurately light my charcoals in the canister and have an even distribution of heat throughout the grill.  Awesome!

If you’re gearing up for outdoor BBQ grilling this spring or summer, check out these three barbecue must-haves. They will allow you to enjoy your family more as well as better tasting food from the grill.

Posted by Lorraine