Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee

Mastering Homemade Pork Loin Jerky: A Classic Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee Recipe There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of crafting your own jerky at home—especially when you can customize flavors and choose your favorite lean cuts. This weekend, I turned to pork loin chops to create a delicious, tender, and savory jerky, but the beauty of this recipe is its versatility.  Whether you're into beef, chicken, turkey, duck, or venison, the same marinade and process will elevate your snack game. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let's dive into the art of making homemade pork loin jerky, a classic from my Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee collection. Table of Contents Why Choose Pork Loin for Jerky? Ingredients and Crafting Your Jerky Marinade Preparing the Meat for Jerky Marinating Tips & Tricks Drying & Storage: Achieving Perfect Texture Customization & Creative Variations Final Thoughts & Tips for Success Why Choose Pork Loin for Jerky? W...

Homemade Taco Jerky: A Delicious Meat Treat Taco jerky is a delicious snack to have on hand for those moments when hunger strikes and can be prepared in advance to serve as a convenient survival food option. I used lean pork loin for my recipe, but you can also use beef or various other types of meat. Ingredients: For the taco marinade: 2 cups of soy sauce 1 cup of Worcestershire sauce 1 cup of brown sugar 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup of olive oil 1 tablespoon of garlic powder 1 tablespoon of onion powder 1 tablespoon of paprika 1 tablespoon of cumin 1 tablespoon of chili powder 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat) For the meat: 5 pounds of lean pork loin chops or beef (such as flank steak or London broil), thinly sliced against the grain. Various other meats can also be used. Instructions: In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the marinade.   Trim the excess fat off the meat. Then, thinly slice the meat against the grain into strips. ...

Mastering the Art of Homemade Peppered Pork Jerky: A Classic Recipe to Elevate Your Snack Game There's something deeply satisfying about crafting your own jerky—it's a perfect blend of culinary artistry and practical snacking. If you've ever wondered how to create a flavorful, tender, and spice-infused jerky right in your own kitchen, you're in the right place. Today, we're diving into a tried-and-true recipe for homemade peppered pork jerky that will impress your taste buds and elevate your snack repertoire.  Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, this recipe offers a deliciously savory experience that’s perfect for on-the-go munching, camping trips, or just a satisfying treat at home. Table of Contents Ingredients Overview Preparing the Pork for Jerky Creating the Flavorful Marinade Marinating the Pork Drying and Dehydrating Expert Tips for Perfect Jerky Final Thoughts & Enjoyment Ingredients Overview This recipe combines a balanced blend o...

Mastering the Art of Easy Turkey Jerky: A Simple Recipe for Snack Success If you're a snack enthusiast looking for a nutritious, flavorful, and homemade treat, turkey jerky is an excellent choice. Not only is it a healthier alternative to store-bought options, but making your own is easier than you might think. Whether you're prepping for a camping trip or just want a savory snack, this straightforward turkey jerky recipe will become your go-to in no time. Table of Contents Ingredients Needed Step-by-Step Instructions Tips for Perfect Turkey Jerky Storage & Enjoyment Ingredients Needed 1 pound turkey breast (skinless and boneless) 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick Step-by-Step Instructions Prepare the Turkey: Thinly slice the turkey breast into strips about 1/8 inch thick. For easier slicing, freeze the meat for about 1-2 hours befor...

Discover the Rich Flavors of Southern Hospitality with Buttermilk Pound Cake Welcome to my blog, where we celebrate culinary traditions and elevate everyday baking to an art form. As part of Taste of Authentic Southern Treats Week, today’s feature is a classic that embodies comfort, richness, and nostalgia — the Buttermilk Pound Cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning your journey in the kitchen, this recipe promises a luscious, velvety texture and a delightful tang that’s truly Southern at heart. Table of Contents Why Use Buttermilk in Pound Cake? Ingredients & Key Tips Step-by-Step Baking Instructions Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips Conclusion Why Use Buttermilk in Pound Cake? Adding buttermilk to your pound cake isn’t just a flavorful choice; it’s a strategic one. The acidity in buttermilk tenderizes the gluten in the flour, resulting in a moist, soft crumb. It also imparts a subtle tang that balances the richness of butter and eggs, giving the cake a comp...

Celebrating Southern Sweetness: Your Ultimate Recipe for Coconut Cream Pie with Cookie Crumb Crust (Using Splenda) Welcome to a week-long celebration of authentic Southern treats here at Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee! Today, we're diving into one of the South’s most beloved desserts: the luscious Coconut Cream Pie. This version features a crispy cookie crumb crust and a rich, creamy coconut filling—sweetened with Splenda for a lighter, guilt-free indulgence. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Table of Contents Introduction Why Southern Coconut Cream Pie? Ingredients Step-by-Step Instructions Tips and Tricks Conclusion Why Southern Coconut Cream Pie? Southern desserts are renowned for their comforting flavors and hearty textures, and Coconut Cream Pie is no exception. It embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cuisine—think creamy, sweet, with a hint of tropical coc...

Indulge in Southern Charm: A Rich and Creamy Chocolate Silk Pie with a Cookie Crumb Crust Welcome to a week-long celebration of authentic Southern sweet treats with Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee! Today, we’re diving into a classic favorite—Chocolate Silk Pie. Perfectly rich, silky smooth, and decadently satisfying, this dessert embodies the soulful charm of Southern comfort food. Best of all, our recipe features a delightful cookie crumb crust made with Splenda, making it a delicious choice for those seeking a lower-sugar indulgence without sacrificing flavor. Table of Contents Introduction to Southern Chocolate Silk Pie Ingredients Overview Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions Tips for Success Serving Suggestions & Final Thoughts Introduction to Southern Chocolate Silk Pie There’s something truly special about Southern desserts—rich, comforting, and often infused with nostalgia. The Chocolate Silk Pie is no exception. Its velvety filling, paired with a crunchy cookie crumb crust,...

Delight in Every Bite: Southern Cinnamon Rolls Recipe There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, freshly baked cinnamon roll—especially when it’s made with love and a touch of Southern charm. If you’ve ever wanted to master this classic treat without fuss, you’re in the right place. Today, I’ll guide you through an easy Southern cinnamon rolls recipe, complete with helpful tips to ensure they turn out irresistibly soft, gooey, and full of flavor.  Whether you’re making breakfast for a family gathering or just indulging in a sweet moment for yourself, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a favorite staple in your kitchen. Table of Contents Ingredients You Need Step-by-Step Preparation Helpful Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Final Thoughts and Serving Suggestions Ingredients You Need 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet) 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F) ⅓ cup granulated Splenda or granulated sugar ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon salt 3 ½ cups all-purpose flo...

Indulge in Tradition: A Delicious Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe with Splenda Welcome to Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee, where we celebrate authentic Southern sweet treats all week long! Today, we're diving into a classic that warms hearts and spreads smiles: the iconic Southern Sweet Potato Pie. But this isn’t just any recipe — we're making it healthier without sacrificing flavor, using Splenda to satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free. Whether you’re preparing for family gatherings or simply craving a cozy dessert, this full recipe will become a new favorite in your culinary collection. Table of Contents Why Southern Sweet Potato Pie? Ingredients & Substitutions Step-by-Step Instructions Tips for Perfecting Your Pie Conclusion Why Southern Sweet Potato Pie? Southern Sweet Potato Pie is more than dessert; it’s a tradition passed down through generations. With its creamy filling, warm spices, and flaky crust, it embodies the heart of Southern hospitality. The use of swee...

Authentic Mexican Dessert Spotlight: Mastering the Classic Arroz con Leche Welcome to Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee, where we are celebrating the rich, vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. Today, we're diving into the heart of Mexico’s beloved dessert tradition—an irresistible rice pudding known as Arroz con Leche. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this comforting, creamy treat is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Today, I’ll guide you through a full, step-by-step recipe, sharing tips and insights to help you craft the perfect bowl of this classic Mexican delight. Table of Contents Introduction to Arroz con Leche Ingredients Needed Preparation Steps Expert Tips for Perfect Arroz con Leche Final Thoughts & Serving Suggestions Introduction to Arroz con Leche Arroz con Leche translates to "rice with milk," but don’t let the simplicity of its name fool you. This dessert embodies the warmth, swee...

Authentic Mexican Desserts: Delight in Making Marranitos—Gingerbread Pig Cookies Welcome to Cooking With Gin Lee’s celebration of Authentic Mexican Cuisine Week! Today, we're diving into a beloved traditional treat that combines the warmth of spices with a playful twist—Marranitos. These delightful, pig-shaped cookies are reminiscent of gingerbread, infused with molasses and aromatic spices, making them a perfect sweet for any occasion. Whether you're an experienced baker or just beginning your culinary journey, this full recipe and detailed instructions will guide you in creating authentic Marranitos that will wow your family and guests alike. Table of Contents What are Marranitos? Historical and Cultural Significance Ingredients Needed Step-by-Step Preparation Baking Tips and Tricks Serving Suggestions Final Thoughts What Are Marranitos? Marranitos, also known as "little pigs," are traditional Mexican cookies shaped like pigs, symbolizing prosperity and ...

Sweeten Your January: Southern Favorites Take Center Stage Next Week at Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee As we step into the second week of January 2026, Gin Lee is back with a delightful lineup of southern-inspired sweet treats that promise to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Following a fantastic first week featuring authentic Mexican recipes, this upcoming week shifts gears to celebrate the comforting, rich flavors of the American South. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just looking to indulge, our upcoming classes and recipes are sure to add a touch of southern charm to your kitchen. Table of Contents Southern Sweet Rolls Southern Pecan Sweet Rolls Southern Honey Buns Other Delicious Southern Treats What to Expect This Week Join the Delicious Journey Southern Sweet Rolls Imagine soft, fluffy bread swirled with a hint of cinnamon and drizzled with glaze — that's what Gin Lee's Southern Sweet Rolls are all about. These rolls are perfect for a cozy weekend br...

Celebrating Authentic Mexican Flavors: Delicious Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars Welcome to Cooking With Gin Lee’s special edition during Authentic Mexican Cuisine Week! Today, we’re exploring a beloved traditional treat that perfectly blends the sweetness of American dessert favorites with the warm, comforting flavors of Mexico — Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, these bars are sure to impress with their creamy, flaky texture and irresistible cinnamon sugar topping. Let’s dive into the history, preparation tips, and why this dessert deserves a spot in your recipe collection. Table of Contents The Rich Heritage of Sopapillas Why Cheesecake Bars Make a Perfect Fusion Ingredients & Essential Tools Step-by-Step Recipe for Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars Pro Tips and Variations Conclusion & Invitation to Try The Rich Heritage of Sopapillas Sopapillas are a traditional fried bread that holds a special place in Mexican and ...

Discover the Flavors of Mexico: Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe to Spice Up Your Meal Welcome back to Cooking Exceptionally With Gin Lee! This week, we're celebrating the vibrant and diverse world of Mexican cuisine. From zesty salsas to hearty tacos, we've explored many flavors—today, we're diving into a colorful, spicy, and utterly authentic dish that perfectly complements any Mexican feast: Mexican rice. Whether you're new to Mexican cooking or looking to elevate your culinary repertoire, this recipe will bring a touch of Mexico right to your dinner table. Table of Contents Introduction Why Make Mexican Rice? Ingredients Needed Step-by-Step Instructions Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice Conclusion Why Make Mexican Rice? Mexican rice, also known as "arroz mexicano," is more than just a side dish; it’s a colorful centerpiece filled with bold flavors and a hint of spice. It's incredibly versatile—serve it with tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or as part of a bu...

Mastering the Art of Mexican Cuisine: Delicious Quesadillas from Scratch Welcome to this week’s culinary journey on the Cooking With Gin Lee blog, where we're celebrating the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. Each day, we’re unveiling a classic Mexican recipe, and today’s star is the beloved quesadilla—a simple yet irresistibly delicious dish that embodies comfort and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking to add a flavorful twist to your weeknight dinner, mastering quesadillas is a skill worth acquiring. So, let’s dive into how you can create perfect, crispy quesadillas right in your own kitchen! Table of Contents Ingredients Needed Preparation Steps Pro Tips for Perfect Quesadillas Variations to Elevate Your Quesadillas Conclusion Ingredients: 4 large flour tortillas 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend) 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional for a heartier version) 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 bell pepper, dice...

Discover the Delicious World of Mexican Cuisine: Authentic Gorditas Recipe Welcome to this week’s culinary adventure on Cooking With Gin Lee! We’re diving into the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, and what better way to start than with a classic favorite—gorditas. These fluffy, savory pockets are a staple in Mexican households, offering endless possibilities for fillings and flavors. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create perfect, homemade gorditas that will impress your family and friends. Table of Contents Introduction Ingredients Instructions Pro Tips & Variations Conclusion Ingredients: 2 cups masa harina (corn dough flour) 1 1/4 cups warm water 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking) Optional fillings: refried beans, cheese, cooked meats, salsa, avocado, etc. Instructions: Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your han...

Authentic Mexican Chilaquiles: A Delicious Recipe to Start Your Day Welcome to this week’s culinary adventure on Cooking With Gin Lee! As part of our celebration of Mexican cuisine, today we're diving into the comforting, flavorful world of Chilaquiles. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this dish is a vibrant symphony of crispy chips simmered in a rich salsa, topped with fresh ingredients. Whether you're making it for a weekend treat or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get started! Table of Contents Ingredients Step-by-Step Instructions Chef’s Tips & Variations Conclusion Ingredients 4 cups of tortilla chips (preferably homemade or thick-cut for crunch) 2 cups of red or green salsa (store-bought or homemade) 1 small onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup of crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese 2 large eggs (optional, for topping or side) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, pickled jal...