Homemade cooking is one of life’s simple pleasures. Baking cookies, roasting vegetables, or simmering soup fills the house with enticing aromas and creates memories with each bite. During this time of social distancing, cooking at home has taken on a new meaning. It provides comfort, nourishment and a creative outlet. Here are a few homemade recipes to share with your family.
A classic chocolate chip cookie is always a crowd-pleaser. Mix together butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, flour, baking soda, and salt. Then stir in chocolate chips. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a greased baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Bake at 350 F for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are light brown. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
For a hearty, budget-friendly meal, make a pot of vegetable beef soup. In a large pot, sauté diced onions, carrots and celery. Add broth, diced tomatoes, corn, green beans and beef. Simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and beef to become tender. Season with thyme, parsley, bay leaves and black pepper. Serve the soup with a crusty bread.
Pancakes are a breakfast treat for lazy weekend mornings. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix, the batter should be slightly lumpy. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour or scoop the pancake batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side.