These hearty sandwiches are terrific for weekends and watching football. Kim Marie Van Rheenen of Mendota, Illinois simmers the meatballs in a tangy barbecue sauce rather than the traditional Italian red sauce.
Vanilla beans can be expensive, but their superior flavor is worth the investment. Substitute vanilla paste or one teaspoon real vanilla extract if necessary. Stir extract in with the butter.
Fried chicken is topped with an Asian-style mild gravy composed of oyster and soy sauces with chicken broth. An abundance of cashews adds crunch and sweetness.
Pureed black beans and tomatoes are combined with vegetable broth to make a nice thick base for this soup, which hosts celery, carrots, onion and corn.
Change up this dessert by layering pear filling between purchased pizzelles (Italian waffle-style cookies) and then topping with Praline Sauce and toasted pecans.
My mother usually didn't care for dumplings. But she raved about this stew...dumplings and all. It's a down-home delicious meal that I make often for my family.
