Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee

Mexican style refried bean burgers & Mexican salad If you can't afford beef, or don't like meat in general, here are a couple of meatless alternatives for you. The Mexican style refried bean burgers are pretty simple to make and they're also delicious when used in a Mexican salad. Plus, there are alternative ways to use bean burgers as well. I will be listing those alternative options at the end of my article. Ingredients: 16 ounces of refried beans (homemade or canned) 1 cup of pinto beans, or black beans, drained well 1 cup of uncooked old-fashioned oats, or bread crumbs (add extra if you're having trouble shaping the burgers) 1 onion, diced 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper ½ teaspoon of cumin powder 1-2 jalapeno peppers, or chili peppers, banana peppers; diced  ½ teaspoon of sriracha powder ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika Enough potato flakes or cornmeal to coat the bean burgers in well Cooking oil, enough t...

Bean & cheese tortilla roll-ups If you love bean burritos, then here's a recipe for you to sink your teeth into! Today I will walk you through the instructions on how I slowly cook pinto beans, make refried beans, followed by my recipe for the bean & cheese tortilla roll-ups. This entire meal cost me under ten dollars to prepare. Of course, I already had the cheese, spices, onion, and garlic. The bags of dried pinto beans that I purchased at Wal-Mart cost only a dollar for the sixteen ounce bags. When I make refried beans, I normally make them from the dried beans that I cook. The recipe for my bean and cheese tortilla roll-ups doesn't use the amount of beans that I pre-cook. What I do is cook a crock pot of beans and use them to make different recipes. Because it takes so long for dried beans to slow cook. Two cups of dried beans once cooked, equals about four fifteen ounce cans of cooked beans. That's the equivalent to six cups of cooked beans. Ingredients to cook...

Homemade chili beans Do you want to get your spice on? If so, I think you'll really enjoy my recipe for homemade chili beans. You can make the recipe with or without ground beef. It's really good either way.  To begin making this recipe, I started by cooking a sixteen-ounce bag of dried pinto beans first. If you are unsure how to cook dried pinto beans, I wrote an article a while back, teaching you how I prepare them in a crock-pot. If you don't want to make the recipe with homemade cooked beans, you can buy canned pinto beans to use as a substitute. However, keep in mind that a sixteen-ounce bag of dried pinto beans roughly makes close to six cups once they're cooked, while a fifteen-ounce can of store-bought beans equals about one cup and a half. Ingredients: 6 cups of cooked pinto beans 1-24-ounce jar of pasta sauce (your preferred brand) 4-6 chili peppers, chopped and diced 1-2 jalapeno peppers, chopped and diced 4 teaspoons of chili powder 2 teaspoons of cayenne pe...

Slow-cooked Great Northern Beans Today's recipe is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly delicious. This recipe yields enough Great Northern beans to feed your entire family. To achieve the perfect creamy texture, the beans are cooked slowly. Ingredients: 2 pounds of dried Great Northern beans 1 onion, diced finely (optional) 3 cloves of minced garlic (optional) 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika 1 tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper 1 1/2 teaspoons of seasoning salt 5 quarts of cold water (for the crockpot) Instructions: Thoroughly rinse the great northern beans with cold water, ensuring to remove any defective beans. Transfer the beans to your crockpot. Next, add cold water, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, freshly ground black pepper, and seasoning salt to the crockpot. Cover the crockpot and cook on a medium-low setting. Allow the beans to simmer for 10 to 12 hours, stirring occasionally. If necessary, add additional water to ensure the beans remain covered with at least...

Refried Pinto Bean Burgers If you're looking for new ways to create affordable meals today, I'd like to share my delightful refried bean burger recipe with you. Ingredients: 1 (16-ounce) can of refried beans 2 teaspoons of canola oil 1 onion, finely diced 1 bell pepper, finely diced 1 cup of breadcrumbs 1/2 cup of self-rising flour 1 1/2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning salt 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika Instructions: Over medium heat, add 2 teaspoons of canola oil to a large skillet. Allow the oil to get hot. Then add 1 onion, finely diced, and 1 bell pepper, finely diced. Sauté the vegetables until they're nice and tender. In a bowl, add 1 (16-ounce) can of refried beans, then add 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Stir until the breadcrumbs and beans are combined. Now, add the sautéed vegetables to the bean mixture. Mix them together well. Add 1/2 cup of self-rising flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper, ...

Southwestern Ranch Beans With Sausage This recipe is perfect for a cozy day! Today, I decided to mix red beans and pinto beans, but feel free to swap in black beans if you like. Ingredients: 1 pound of sausage 2 cups of dried red beans 2 cups of dried pinto beans 1 can of diced tomatoes 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix 1 cup of chicken broth or vegetable broth 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika 1 to 2 teaspoons of chili powder (the amount depends on your preference). 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves of garlic, minced Seasoning salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste About 12 cups of water to cook the beans Instructions: Wash and pre-soak the beans in water for at least 2 hours. Then rinse them with fresh water. In a crockpot, add the red beans, pinto beans, and 12 cups of water. Make sure the beans are completely submerged in water as they cook. About an hour before they're supposed to be done, check on them and add more boiling water if necessary. Otherwi...

Vegetarian chili with pinto beans For those who opt for a meatless chili option, here is a flavorful and satisfying recipe to try, featuring hearty pinto beans. This chili tastes so yummy, I hope you'll give it a try! Ingredients: 1 pound of dried pinto beans 1 onion, chopped 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 bell pepper, diced 1 can of diced tomatoes 1 can of tomato sauce 2 tablespoons of chili powder 1 tablespoon of cumin Seasoning salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Instructions: Rinse the pinto beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain the beans and rinse them again before using. In a skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until they are soft. In a large crockpot, add the soaked pinto beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, seasoning salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together well. Cover and allow the crockpot to cook the chili on medium for 8 to 9 hours, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed....

Yummy Slow-cooked Pinto Beans Hey there, foodie friends! If you're looking for a tasty and hearty meal, you've come to the right place. These slow-cooked pinto beans are sure to hit the spot. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you'll have a delicious pot of beans to serve for your next meal. So grab your apron and let's start cooking! Ingredients: 1 pound dried pinto beans 1 onion, chopped 2 to 3 cloves of minced garlic 1 teaspoon seasoning salt Freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika 4 cups of water 3 cups of vegetable broth Instructions: First, rinse the pinto beans under cold water and pick out any stones or debris. Place the beans in a large pot and cover them with water. Allowing them to soak overnight. Drain the beans and return them to the pot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, seasoning salt, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika, 4 cups of water, and 3 cups of vegetable broth. Cover the pot and cook ...

Country-style great northern beans and ham soup This bean and ham soup is very satisfying when served on a cold day. It's quite delicious and will make eight to ten servings of soup. Leftovers can be placed into an airtight container and stored conveniently inside your freezer. Ingredients:  1-16-ounce package of great northern dried beans About 2-3 cups of ham, depending on what you prefer (I used end pieces from ham leftovers.) 1-½ teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt 1 teaspoon of onion flakes 2 cubes of chicken bouillon 6 quarts of cold water 1 can of cream of celery soup, or cream of mushroom soup Instructions: First, wash and rinse the great northern beans. (Pick out any debris.) Chop the ham if you prefer smaller bite-sized pieces of meat in your soup. (I left mine in bigger chunks. I also leave the fat on the meat to add extra flavor. You can trim it off if you prefer.) Add the cold water, onion flakes, freshly ground black pepper, seasoning...

Creamy slow cooked great northern beans Great northern beans aren't only delicious, but they are super nutritious. They're high in fiber, potassium, magnesium, and calcium (among others). Plus, these babies are cholesterol free.  If you suffer from flatulence after eating beans, add one carrot or one whole potato to the pot while they're slow cooking. Either of these root vegetables will absorb the gas quite effectively. Creamy slow cooked great northern beans Ingredients: 2 pounds of dried great northern beans Ham, ham bone, ham hocks, or pork roast bone (with some meat left on the bones) 1 onion, diced finely 3 cloves of minced garlic 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika 1 tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper 1-½ teaspoons of seasoning salt 1 cup of evaporated milk 20 cups (5 quarts) of cold water (for the crock-pot) Optional : 1 can of cream of celery soup 1 carrot, or one potato, to help prevent farting. Yes, a whole carrot, or a whole potato will absorb gas efficiently ...

All about great northern beans Great northern beans first originated in South America, like all other common beans. The bean is perhaps referred to as "great northern," because they were originally brought to the area of what is now called North Dakota by Spanish exploration. A tribe located in North Dakota known as the Mandan tribe domesticated the beans for cultivation. (LeafTV Contributor, n.d.) Great northern beans aren't just economically friendly, they're also really healthy. (The nutritional value per ¼ cup serving of great northern beans: For a 2,000 calorie diet: Serving size: ¼ cup) Nutritional information per packaged label for dried great northern beans Calories 90 Calories from fat 0 grams Total Fat 0 grams, 0% Daily Value Saturated Fat 0 grams, 0% Daily Value Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 0 grams, 0% Daily Value Sodium 0mg, 0% Daily Value Total Carbohydrate 22 grams, 7% Daily Value Dietary Fiber 7 grams, 28% Daily Value Sugars 1 gram Protein 8 grams Vit...

War Time Recipes: Thriving on Simplicity During Challenging Times Throughout history, war has tested the resilience of communities in countless ways—among them, the challenge of nourishing families with limited ingredients. Wartime recipes are a testament to ingenuity and resourcefulness, transforming humble staples into hearty, comforting meals. These dishes not only sustained bodies but also bolstered spirits during difficult times. In this post, we’ll explore the essential principles behind wartime cooking, share classic recipes, and offer insights into how these traditions can inspire us today. Table of Contents Principles of Wartime Cooking Classic Wartime Recipes Modern Takeaways and Inspiration Conclusion Principles of Wartime Cooking During wartime, resourcefulness becomes the cornerstone of meal preparation. With rationing limiting access to ingredients, cooks had to innovate with what they had on hand. Here are some key principles that defined wartime recipes: Utilize Staples...

  Have Groceries Become a Luxury Item? Exploring the Rising Cost of Everyday Essentials Imagine walking into your local grocery store and feeling like you're entering an upscale boutique rather than a place to buy everyday essentials. Shoppers are increasingly confronted with prices that seem more suited to luxury boutiques than to aisles of staple foods. But is this perception accurate? Are groceries truly becoming a luxury item? In this blog post, we'll delve into the factors driving up grocery costs, examine the implications for consumers, and consider whether access to affordable food is becoming a thing of the past. Table of Contents The Growing Costs of Groceries Factors Fueling Inflation in Food Prices Impact on Consumers Is Food Becoming a Luxury? What Can Consumers Do? Conclusion The Growing Costs of Groceries Over the past few years, many households have watched their grocery bills balloon. According to recent reports from various economic research organizations, the ...

  Low Cost Meals in Minutes: Delicious, Budget-Friendly Recipes You Can Prepare Fast In today’s busy world, everyone is searching for quick, affordable meals that don’t sacrifice flavor or nutrition. Whether you're a student on a tight budget, a busy parent, or simply someone looking to save time and money, this guide is packed with full recipes for low-cost meals you can whip up in minutes. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness — fast, affordable, and satisfying! Table of Contents Quick & Cheap Breakfast Ideas Fast Lunch Recipes Speedy Dinner Options Budget-Friendly Snacks & Sides Tips for Saving Time & Money in the Kitchen Quick & Cheap Breakfast Ideas Start your day right without breaking the bank or wasting time. These breakfast recipes are simple, inexpensive, and ready in minutes. Oatmeal with Fruit: Combine quick oats with water or milk, microwave for 2-3 minutes, and top with sliced bananas or frozen berries. Cost-effective and filling! Egg ...

   Budget-Friendly and Delicious: Easy Rice Recipes for Low-Cost Meals In a world where eating well doesn’t always mean spending a fortune, rice remains a champion ingredient—affordable, versatile, and nourishing. Whether you're a student on a tight budget, a busy parent, or simply someone looking to stretch your meals further, mastering delicious rice recipes can transform your culinary routine. Today, we’ll explore a variety of easy, cost-effective rice dishes that are not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and comfort. Let’s dive into the world of economical yet satisfying rice meals that will keep your wallet happy and your taste buds delighted. Table of Contents Why Rice Is a Budget-Friendly Staple Mastering the Basics: How to Cook Perfect Rice Top Easy Rice Recipes on a Budget Tips for Saving Money and Enhancing Flavor Conclusion: Cooking Smart, Eating Well Why Rice Is a Budget-Friendly Staple Rice is often considered the backbone of many cuisines around ...

Low-cost meal ideas for budget-conscious cooks Let's face it: we all love good food, but our wallets don't always share the same enthusiasm. Cooking on a budget doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor or creativity. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can whip up delicious meals that won't break the bank. In this article, we'll explore the art of budget-conscious cooking and share some wallet-friendly meal ideas that are both tasty and affordable. Understanding the Importance of Budget-Conscious Meals Budget-conscious meals are not just about saving money; they are also about being mindful of food waste, making the most of ingredients, and getting creative in the kitchen. By cooking on a budget, you can learn to appreciate the value of simple, wholesome ingredients and discover new ways to enjoy delicious meals without overspending. Plus, there's something satisfying about turning a few basic items into a flavorful feast that doesn't cost a for...