Cooking Lessons for Dad

Cooking Lessons for Beginners

Baked French Fries

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Baked French Fries

Baked French Fries

Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet potatoes
  • 2 - 3 tablespoons high-heat cooking oil**
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste

Instructions

    1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
    2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
    3: Wash and dry the potatoes.
    4: Cut the potatoes into 1/4 inch matchsticks*.
    5: In a large bowl, toss the potato strips with the oil and salt. Add additional seasonings if desired.
    6: Arrange the potato strips in an uncrowded, single layer on the baking sheet.
    7: Bake for 30 - 35 minutes, stirring around halfway through. Cook until golden brown and crispy.
    8: Let cool a minute or so before serving. If desired, serve with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or a homemade sauce.

Notes

*To cut the potatoes into matchsticks:
1: Slice a thin piece off one side of the potato to create a flat surface.
2: Place the cut side down and cut the potato into thick slices about 1/4 inch wide.
3: Stack a few slices on top of each other. Slice through the stacks to create long, thick strips resembling matchsticks. Aim for consistent thickness.

Thicker fries will take longer to cook. The Skinnier one will cook faster.
**Choose an oil that can take a high heat, like grapeseed, canola, peanut, or avocado oil.
You can add additional seasonings, such as garlic powder, garlic granules, pepper, paprika, chili powder, or more.
No need to peel the potatoes unless you want to.
1 large russet potato is about 8—10 ounces.

© Karen Breyer

Craving crispy French fries but want a healthier option? In this video, Karen Breyer will show you step-by-step how to make perfectly Baked French fries at home in the oven. This easy, healthy recipe is a great alternative to the deep-fried version without sacrificing deliciousness.

Baking fries in the oven ensures they are lower in fat and calories, making them a guilt-free treat you can enjoy anytime. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or even a main course, these baked French fries will surely be a hit with everyone.

Not only are these baked French fries healthier, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. Karen will show you how to get a perfect crispy texture and suggest seasonings to suit your taste. Whether it’s a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just a cozy night in, these Baked French fries are a quick, simple, and delicious option. Watch this cooking video and make some delicious Baked French Fries today!

Gnat Trap Recipe

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Gnat Trap Recipe

Gnat Trap Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • A few drops of dish soap
  • 1/4 - 1/2 cup warm water

Instructions

    1: Add the apple cider vinegar to a small container or bowl and stir in the sugar.
    2: Add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture.
    3: Gradually add 1/4 cup warm water.
    4: Stir the mixture so the sugar dissolves and the
    dish soap is evenly distributed.
    5: Stir in more water to achieve the desired
    consistency. The mixture should be liquid enough to
    release its scent into the air but not too watery.
    6: Cover the container with plastic wrap and secure
    it with a rubber band or tape.
    7: Use a toothpick or fork to poke several small
    holes in the plastic wrap.
    8: Place the trap in areas where gnats are present,
    such as near houseplants or in the kitchen.
    9: Check the trap regularly and empty it out as
    needed, replacing the vinegar mixture as it becomes
    full.

Notes

Adjust the amount of warm water based on your preferences and the trap's effectiveness. It
is best to start with smaller amounts of water and gradually add more until you reach the
desired consistency.
You can double or triple the recipe (or more) to make as many gnat traps as you like.
You don't have to put plastic wrap on the container; it will still catch gnats.

© Karen Breyer

Tired of pesky gnats buzzing around your home? In this video, you’ll learn how to make a quick and easy DIY solution to trap and eliminate gnats using simple household ingredients. This method is effective, affordable, and environmentally friendly! Follow along as Karen Breyer shows you step-by-step how to make this gnat trap that works!

Gnats can be a nuisance, especially during warmer months. Instead of using chemical sprays or expensive traps, create a simple and natural gnat trap with items you probably already have at home. Karen Breyer demonstrates how easy it is to set up this DIY gnat trap in just a few minutes. You’ll be amazed at how effectively it attracts and traps gnats, helping you reclaim your space. Say goodbye to gnats for good with this easy DIY gnat trap!

French Lentil Rice Soup

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Yield: 8 servings

French Lentil Rice Soup

French Lentil Rice Soup

Ingredients

  • 8 cups chicken broth (see notes for vegan option)
  • 2 cups lentils, sorted and rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups carrots, diced small
  • 1 1/2 cups onion, diced small
  • 1 1/2 cups celery, diced small
  • 1/4 cup brown rice, uncooked
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons thyme
  • 1 - 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

    1: Add all the ingredients to a crockpot or slow cooker. Stir well.
    2: Cover. Cook on high for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours or low for 7 to 8 hours. Cook until the lentils are as soft as you like them.

Notes

You can use 8 teaspoons of vegan (or regular) instant chicken broth/seasoning and 8 cups of water instead of the liquid chicken broth.

Add fewer lentils for a thinner soup.

Cut this recipe in half for 4 - 5 servings.

Reheated French Lentil Rice Soup tastes great and makes an easy meal.

You can adjust the seasonings to your taste.

In today’s video, I’ll show you how to make delicious and nutritious French Lentil Rice Soup in your crockpot or slow cooker. This easy, healthy recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal that practically cooks itself.

This French Lentil Rice Soup is made with wholesome ingredients like French lentils, brown rice, vegetables, and flavorful herbs and spices. It is not only satisfying but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll walk you through preparing and assembling all the ingredients in your crockpot, setting it to cook, and returning to a delicious aroma filling your kitchen hours later. It’s the perfect recipe for meal prep or lazy weeknight dinners.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to cooking, this French Lentil Rice Soup recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Watch this cooking video and try this easy, healthy, and satisfying recipe today!

I Have Some Very Sad News: A Heartfelt Update

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In today’s video, I wanted to take a couple of minutes to share some personal updates and reflections with you all. It’s been a while since I last posted, and I owe you an explanation. Life has taken an unexpected and very sad turn. While this video may be different from my usual cooking lessons, I hope you’ll join me as I open up and share from the heart. Thank you for your patience and support during this time. I am hopeful for new future cooking adventures and for sharing my next chapter with you.

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