Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee

Celebrating a Fresh Start: Happy New Year 2026 from Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee As we turn the page to a new year, there's an undeniable sense of excitement and optimism in the air. 2026 is here, bringing fresh opportunities, new adventures, and countless moments to savor — both in life and in the kitchen. At Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee, we’re thrilled to welcome you into this promising year with warmth, hope, and a dash of culinary inspiration. Let’s dive into what makes 2026 a year to look forward to, and how we can make the most of it together. Table of Contents Embrace the New Year with Positivity Reflecting on Past Culinary Triumphs Exciting Trends to Watch in 2026 Setting Delicious Goals for the Year Embrace the New Year with Positivity First and foremost, 2026 is a blank canvas — an opportunity for fresh starts and new experiences. Whether you're an aspiring home chef or a seasoned culinary enthusiast, embrace this year with an optimistic mindset. Remember,...

Eat the Weeds! Discover the Power of Henbit — Nature’s Hidden Treasure Have you ever looked out into your garden or lawn and dismissed those little green sprouts as pesky weeds? What if I told you that some of these unwanted plants, like henbit, are not just harmless filler but are packed with health benefits? The Bible reminds us that for every ailment, God has provided natural resources — and often, those resources are right under our noses. Let’s explore the fascinating world of henbit, a member of the mint family, and uncover why eating weeds like henbit could be a game-changer for your health and well-being. Table of Contents What is Henbit? A Closer Look The Surprising Health Benefits of Henbit How to Identify and Harvest Henbit Safely Delicious Ways to Incorporate Henbit into Your Diet Embrace Nature’s Pharmacy — The Wisdom in Weeds Conclusion: Reclaiming Nature’s Gifts What is Henbit? A Closer Look Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) is a common, yet often overlooked, plant belonging ...

Discover the Art of Making Homemade Creamy Garlic Butter If you're a fan of rich, flavorful spreads that elevate any dish, then homemade garlic butter is a culinary treasure you'll want to master. Unlike store-bought options, churned garlic butter allows you to customize the flavor, texture, and creaminess — making it perfect for everything from drizzling over grilled steaks to slathering on warm bread. Today, we'll guide you through a straightforward yet indulgent recipe for creating your own velvety, churned garlic butter that will impress your taste buds and guests alike. Table of Contents Ingredients Needed Essential Equipment Step-by-Step Preparation Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Storing Your Homemade Garlic Butter Final Thoughts Ingredients Needed 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened 4–5 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for added freshness) 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for brightness) Salt to taste Freshly ground black ...

Raise a Glass to Tradition: How to Make Delicious Homemade Eggnog for Your New Year’s Celebration There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of homemade eggnog wafting through your home as you ring in the New Year. Crafted with love and a few simple ingredients, this classic holiday beverage transforms any gathering into a cozy, festive occasion. Whether you're hosting family, friends, or enjoying a quiet evening, homemade eggnog elevates your celebration with its rich, creamy flavor and nostalgic charm. Table of Contents Why Make Homemade Eggnog? Ingredients Needed Step-by-Step Instructions Tips and Variations Conclusion Why Make Homemade Eggnog? While store-bought eggnog offers convenience, nothing compares to the rich, authentic taste of homemade. Crafting your own allows for customization—whether you prefer it spiked with your favorite bourbon or kept alcohol-free—and ensures the highest quality ingredients. Plus, it’s a delightful way to impress guests with your...

Unveiling the Truth: Glyphosate in Flour – What Every Consumer Should Know The safety of the food we consume is a topic that continually garners attention, especially when it involves common ingredients like flour.  Recently, concerns have emerged about the potential presence of Glyphosate—a chemical compound linked to agricultural practices—in our everyday staples. But what exactly is Glyphosate, and why should you be concerned about its presence in flour? Let’s delve into this issue and uncover what it means for your health and wellbeing. Table of Contents What is Glyphosate? How Does Glyphosate End Up in Flour? Potential Health Risks How to Minimize Exposure Final Thoughts Glyphosate, often misunderstood due to similar-sounding names, is a term that has been loosely associated with certain chemical agents used in agriculture. While the name might evoke images of pesticides or herbicides like glyphosate—widely used weed killers—it's essential to distinguish these substances....

A Recipe for Love and Kindness This Holiday Season As the holiday season wraps us in its warm embrace, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you, my dear blog readers. Your support, kindness, and enthusiasm inspire me every day. From the bottom of my heart, Happiest of Holidays! to you and your loved ones. Today, I want to share not just a recipe, but a heartfelt formula—an ingredient list for creating love and kindness that can transform your holidays and beyond. Table of Contents Introduction The Secret Ingredients The Heartwarming Recipe Serving with Love and Kindness Conclusion A Heartfelt Thank You This year has been a journey filled with highs and lows, lessons learned, and moments cherished. Your presence here on this blog has been like a cozy fire during winter—comforting and inspiring. As we celebrate this special time, I want to encourage us to extend the warmth and love we feel to others. After all, the greatest gift we can give i...

Homemade Cat Food: A Nutritious and Loving Choice for Your Feline Friend As devoted cat owners, we all want to provide our feline companions with the best possible care — and that includes nourishing, wholesome food that supports their health and happiness. While commercial cat foods are convenient and formulated to meet nutritional standards, more pet parents are discovering the benefits of preparing homemade cat food. Not only does it allow for complete control over ingredients, but it also provides a heartfelt way to express love for your feline friend. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of homemade cat food, offering practical tips, nutritional insights, and a step-by-step approach to making nutritious meals tailored specifically for your cat. Table of Contents Why Choose Homemade Cat Food? Essential Nutrients Your Cat Needs Choosing the Right Ingredients Sample Recipes to Get Started Safety and Storage Tips Conclusion: A Loving, Healthy Choice Why Choo...

Wholesome and Delicious: Homemade Dog Food Recipes You Can Trust As pet owners, our dogs are more than just pets—they're family. Providing them with nutritious, home-prepared meals not only ensures they get the best ingredients but also strengthens the bond you share. If you're considering transitioning your furry friend to homemade dog food, you're in the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore easy, balanced recipes that are as delicious as they are beneficial for your dog's health. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes will help you serve up love, one meal at a time. Table of Contents Why Choose Homemade Dog Food? Essential Nutrients for a Balanced Diet Simple Homemade Dog Food Recipes Tips for Preparing and Storing Consulting Your Veterinarian Final Thoughts Why Choose Homemade Dog Food? If you've ever watched your dog eagerly gobble up a homemade meal, you know it’s more than just good tasting—it'...

Indulge in a Deliciously Fresh Apple Dump Cake: A Homemade Twist on a Classic Favorite There's something truly satisfying about a warm, flavorful dessert that combines the comforting aroma of baked apples with the crispy topping of a cake.  Today, we're diving into a delightful recipe for Apple Dump Cake — but with a twist. Instead of relying on canned apples, we'll be crafting a fresh filling from scratch, making this treat even more special. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a dessert that's both simple and irresistibly delicious. Plus, I’ll share some nifty tips to help you Cook Exceptionally With Gin Lee and elevate your baking game!' Table of Contents Why Use Homemade Apples? Ingredients You’ll Need Preparing the Homemade Apple Filling Assembling Your Apple Dump Cake Baking Tips & Tricks Serving Suggestions & Final Tips Why Use Homemade Apples? Pre-made canned apple p...

Holiday Fruit Salad The holiday season is a time for celebration, gathering with loved ones, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. One delightful dish that embodies the spirit of festivities is a vibrant holiday fruit salad. Bursting with colors and flavors, this refreshing salad combines an array of fruits such as fruit cocktail, sliced peaches, diced apples, grapes, sliced oranges, and bananas, all topped with a luscious layer of Cool Whip. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste, this fruit salad not only adds a festive touch to your table but also serves as a healthy option amidst the holiday indulgences. Whether served as a side dish or a light dessert, it’s sure to please guests of all ages. Introduction to Holiday Fruit Salad  If there's one dish that captures the spirit of the holidays, it’s a vibrant fruit salad. Picture it: a cheerful medley of colors, textures, and flavors that not only looks good but also tastes like a festivit...

Yummy Pasta Salad Introduction to Pasta Salad Pasta salad is a versatile and delightful dish that can be enjoyed at any gathering, from casual picnics to elegant dinner parties. With its colorful mix of ingredients and the ability to customize flavors, pasta salad offers a refreshing alternative to heavier sides, and it just happens to be my absolute favorite recipe for our Christmas dinner. History of Pasta Salad Pasta salad has humble origins, likely dating back to the 19th century when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America. It quickly morphed from simple pasta dishes into the vibrant, colorful salads we know today—glistening with olive oil and packed with fresh veggies. Once a staple in Italian-American picnics, it solidified its spot in the culinary world as the perfect party dish, adaptable and always a crowd-pleaser. Popular Variations While the classic Italian pasta salad reigns supreme, variations abound across the globe! From Greek pasta s...

Decadent Chocolate Mousse Chocolate mousse is a classic dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with a light, airy texture, making it a favorite among chocolate lovers.  Originating from France, this indulgent treat has evolved into various versions, offering a delightful experience for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, preparing chocolate mousse from scratch is both rewarding and surprisingly easy. In this article, allow me to guide you through a complete list of ingredients, detailed step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to create the perfect chocolate mousse that will impress your friends and family. Introduction to Chocolate Mousse Chocolate mousse is not just a dessert; it’s a silky, dreamy experience that has captured hearts (and taste buds) since its inception. With its rich flavor and airy texture, this delightful treat epitomizes the art of indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treat...

Vintage 1979 Miss Fluffy Rice/Pineapple Rice Delight In 1979, Ruth Taylor distinguished herself as a prominent contestant in the Miss Fluffy Rice pageant, where she presented the Pineapple Rice Delight as her dessert entry. This recipe is, without a doubt, the finest "pink stuff" I have ever tasted. It was introduced to my family in the late 1970s and has since become a cherished Christmas dessert. Miss Fluffy Rice Contestants in 1979 Overview The Miss Fluffy Rice pageant is a local event in Cross County, Arkansas, celebrating community spirit and culture. In 1979, Ruth Taylor was one of the contestants in this unique pageant. Contest Details Event Name: Miss Fluffy Rice Pageant Location: Cross County, Arkansas Year: 1979 Notable Contestant: Ruth Taylor Significance The pageant is part of local traditions, often highlighting the agricultural heritage of the region, particularly rice farming. It serves as a platform for community engagement and showcases local talent and beaut...

Old-Fashioned Sugar-Free CoCoa Oatmeal Candy This is my adaptation of my family's favorite holiday candy. It can be spooned out in the shapes of cookies, or spread out evenly in a pan, then cut into squares. Today, I made it both ways. Notes: I use old-fashioned oats for my recipe and I add them to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking the candy mixture. If you prefer, you can use quick oats instead. If using quick oats, turn the burner off before adding them into the pan. Regardless of what type of oats I use in the recipe, I always bring the candy mixture to a boil and finish cooking it for 2 to 3 minutes more before adding the oats. Ingredients: 2 ½ cups of granulated white Splenda or granulated monk fruit  ¼ cup of cocoa powder, add additional if you prefer. ½ cup of evaporated milk 2 cups of peanut butter (can be smooth or crunchy). 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extra 2 tablespoons of honey 4 cups of old-fashioned oats Instructions: In a large saucepan, add 2...