Peggy Woodward, RDN – Taste of Home https://www.tasteofhome.com Find Recipes, Appetizers, Desserts, Holiday Recipes & Healthy Cooking Tips Wed, 29 Nov 2023 16:17:13 +0000 en-US hourly 6 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.9 https://www.tasteofhome.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/TOH_Pinterest_ProfilePhoto_RedBkg.png?fit=32%2C32 Peggy Woodward, RDN – Taste of Home https://www.tasteofhome.com 32 32 36 Recipes That Use Up Leftover Hard-Boiled Eggs https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/recipes-using-leftover-hard-boiled-eggs/ Thu, 14 Apr 2022 17:00:00 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/2854-revision-v1/ Get creative with leftover hard-boiled eggs! From classic salads to updated sandwiches, these recipes will have you begging for more.

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The Best Deviled Eggs

Herbs lend amazing flavor to these deviled eggs, which truly are the best you can make! The recipe uses up leftover hard-boiled eggs and includes tasty variations that feature bacon, chipotle peppers and crab. And to make it easy to make these, use an egg peeler!Jesse & Anne Foust, Bluefield, West Virginia

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7-Day 1200-Calorie Meal Plan https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/1200-calorie-meal-plan/ Mon, 21 Mar 2022 00:00:56 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=collection&p=703359 You won’t feel deprived with these hearty lower-calorie breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Our meal plan comes in below 1200 calories, leaving you 300-400 calories for sides, snacks and drinks to balance out your day.

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We’ve made sure you wont feel deprived with these hearty lower-calorie breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Our meal plan comes in below 1200 calories, leaving you 300-400 calories for sides, snacks and drinks to balance out your day.

Continuing your weight-loss journey? Don’t miss these tasty and healthy dinner recipes.

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30 Low-Carb Meals That Are Under 400 Calories https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/low-carb-meals-under-400-calories/ Mon, 07 Mar 2022 17:50:44 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1747924 These low calorie low carb meals will help you reach your diet goals.

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Avocado Crab Boats

These boats are wonderful with tortilla chips, beans or rice. You can also cover them, pack them on ice, and take them to a picnic or potluck. Straight from the oven or cold, they’re always delicious. Frances Benthin, Scio, Oregon

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20 Low-Calorie Snacks That Are Low-Carb, Too https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/low-calorie-snacks-that-are-low-carb-too/ Wed, 16 Feb 2022 19:01:08 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1743678 These delicious snacks will help you reach your diet goals because they’re low-calorie and low-carb, too.

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20 Diabetic-Friendly Oatmeal Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/oatmeal-recipes-for-diabetics/ Tue, 09 Nov 2021 17:38:47 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1720246 These oatmeal recipes for diabetics are cozy and comforting. From slow-cooked and stovetop oatmeal to oat rolls and granola bars, you’ll find all new ways to use a favorite pantry staple.

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Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal

Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal

Theres nothing like a bowl of warm oatmeal in the morning, and my spiced version works in a slow cooker. Store leftovers in the fridge. Jordan Mason, Brookville, Pennsylvania

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30 Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/low-calorie-vegetarian-recipes/ Wed, 22 Sep 2021 14:27:35 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1693936 At 300 calories or less, these low-calorie vegetarian recipes will keep dinner light, but still full of flavor.

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Southwest Vegetarian Bake

This veggie-packed casserole hits the spot on chilly nights. It’s a healthy canned vegetable recipe that’s great for any time I have a taste for Mexican food with all the fixings. Patricia Gale, Monticello, Illinois

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30 Healthy Corn Recipes to Try Tonight https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/healthy-corn-recipes/ Thu, 19 Aug 2021 16:43:59 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1686407 From grilled corn to chowder, these healthy corn recipes are anything but boring. Whether you use fresh, frozen or sweet corn right from the cob, you’re sure to find a new family favorite.

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Pesto Corn Salad with Shrimp

Nutrition Facts
1 serving: 371 calories, 22g fat (3g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 450mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 23g protein.

This recipe showcases the beautiful bounty of summer with its fresh corn, tomatoes and delicious basil. Prevent browning by spritzing the salad with lemon juice. Deena Bowen, Chico, California

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50 Healthy Shrimp Meals to Try Tonight https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/healthy-shrimp-meals/ Wed, 21 Jul 2021 16:49:38 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1680719 Healthy shrimp meals are quick enough for weeknights yet special enough for company. Try one of these flavor-packed recipes tonight!

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Garlic Lemon Shrimp

You’ll be amazed that you can make this simple, elegant pasta in mere minutes. Serve with crusty bread to soak up all of the garlic lemon sauce. Athena Russell, Greenville, South Carolina

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40 Healthy Southern Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/healthy-southern-recipes/ Wed, 14 Jul 2021 14:17:11 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1679484 Slow down and enjoy these healthy Southern recipes around the kitchen table with family and friends.

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Spicy Shrimp with Rice

No one will doubt that “light” cooking can be tasty when you put a helping of this zippy shrimp in front of them. The seafood is seasoned just right with garlic, pepper and hot sauce. Jeannie Klugh, Lancaster, Pennsylvania

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25 Healthy Blueberry Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/healthy-blueberry-recipes/ Wed, 30 Jun 2021 11:16:07 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1674740 Take advantage of these healthy blueberry recipes. We love this mini-yet-mighty fruit's health benefits, so be sure to stock your fridge (or freezer!) and enjoy them all year long.

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Picnic Berry Shortcakes

You can make the berry sauce ahead of time and chill it. Then assemble the entire dessert right before the picnic or party. Frieda Bliesner, McAllen, Texas

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34 Low-Calorie Fruit Desserts We Love https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/low-calorie-fruit-desserts/ Mon, 28 Jun 2021 22:04:21 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1673712 Don’t skip dessert! These summery, low-calorie fruit desserts have fewer than 200 calories per serving.

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Picnic Berry Shortcakes

You can make the berry sauce ahead of time and chill it. Then assemble the entire dessert right before the picnic or party. Frieda Bliesner, McAllen, Texas

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16 Light Potato Salad Recipes Perfect for a Barbecue https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/light-potato-salad-recipes/ Thu, 24 Jun 2021 16:44:57 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1673222 Head to your next cookout armed with a light potato salad you can feel good about eating.

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Grandma's Classic Potato Salad

Grandma's Classic Potato Salad

When I asked my grandmother how old this classic potato salad recipe was, she told me that her mom used to make it when she was a little girl. It has definitely stood the test of time. Kimberly Wallace, Dennison, Ohio

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10 Light, No-Bake Pies Perfect for Summer https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/light-no-bake-pies/ Sat, 19 Jun 2021 15:27:23 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1670157 These easy, no-bake pies are a refreshing way to end a summer meal. Find lightened-up favorites that won't weigh you down.

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Fluffy Key Lime Pie Exps Dsbz17 36450 D01 13 6b 7

Fluffy Key Lime Pie

For a taste of paradise, try this no-bake Key lime pie recipe. It's low in fat, sugar and fuss. It truly is the best Key lime pie recipe ever! Frances VanFossan, Warren, Michigan

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57 Sweet Southern Pies Everyone Should Bake https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/decadent-southern-pie-recipes/ Tue, 18 May 2021 17:50:08 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=collection&p=624467 These heavenly Southern pie recipes don’t have to be eaten on the front porch with a glass of sweet tea, but it is recommended.

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Key Lime Cream Pie

I am very proud of this luscious no-bake beauty. It’s so cool and refreshingperfect for any summer potluck or get-together. Wherever I take this pie, it quickly disappears, with everyone asking for the recipe. Shirley Rickis, Lady Lake, Florida

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How to Soften Butter Quickly https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-soften-butter-quickly/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-soften-butter-quickly/#respond Thu, 06 May 2021 15:00:00 +0000 https://toh.test.rda.net/how-to-soften-butter-quickly/ The Taste of Home Test Kitchen teaches you how to soften butter quickly. We share three easy methods, plus a cheater's strategy.

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It happens all the time. I’m in the mood to bake, I’ve got a great recipe, all of my ingredients are on the counter, and then I read the dreaded words: butter, softened. My butter is rock hard from the fridge. Oh, bother.

Psst! When you only need a tablespoon or two of butter, a butter crock (like this one from Butter Bell) works great. Learn why it’s our Test Kitchen’s secret weapon for smooth, spreadable butter.

How Long Does It Take to Soften Butter?

Left on the countertop at room temperature, a stick of butter takes at least 45 minutes to soften. If you’re the type who plans ahead, that’s no big deal. If not, here are a few ways to soften butter quickly.

How to Soften Butter Fast

You’ll need:

  • Butter (as much as your recipe calls for)

Method 1: Fairly Fast

person cutting a stick of butter into even cubes to show how to soften butter quickly

Our first method is the easiest: Simply cut the butter into cubes. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they’ll come to room temperature.

Cut the butter stick in half so you have two long rectangles side by side. Stack them together and slice again. This yields four butter strips. Keep them stacked, and then slice perpendicular to your cuts. The butter will fall into cubes, and the cubes will soften fairly quickly, in about 15 minutes. (Now’s a good time to measure and prep the remaining ingredients.)

Method 2: Faster

person using a rolling pin to flatten a stick of butter between two pieces of waxed paper

The second method is more labor-intensive, but it will help the butter soften even faster. With a rolling pin, roll or pound the butter out flat. Whether rolling or pounding, the friction will warm the butter-and the broader surface area will encourage faster softening.

Test Kitchen tip: To minimize the mess, we like to flatten butter between two sheets of waxed paper. This prevents the butter from sticking to the rolling pin or the countertop. Brilliant.

Method 3: Super Fast

person shredding a stick of butter by rubbing it on a metal cheese grater

The last method, shredding, creates a dirty dish, but it’s the quickest of the three. Partially unwrap the butter (use the wrapped half as a handle to keep your hand clean) and shred it using the largest holes of your box grater. The butter will reduce to a fluffy heap, similar in appearance to shredded mozzarella cheese.

The principle here is the same as in the first method: Smaller pieces soften faster. Shredded butter is ready to use in your recipe right away.

Test Kitchen tip: We also like to use this method when we’re making pie crust, which actually requires cold butter. In this case, we freeze the stick of butter before grating it. This creates small, hard pieces of butter that help make any crust tender and flaky.

Method 4: The Lazy Way

If you’re feeling lucky, you can forego the aforementioned methods. Just place the butter and sugar into a stand mixer, and start creaming on low speed. (Higher speeds increase the likelihood that butter will catapult out of the bowl.) You’ll need to increase the mixing time to allow for the butter to warm and soften and for the aeration of the creaming process to take place. You can also try this quick trick to soften butter using a warm glass.

Now that you know how to soften butter, read up on the salted vs. unsalted butter debate and find out which one you should be using in your cooking and baking.

Check Out These Flaky, Buttery Pie Recipes
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25 Recipes You Can Make with a Pound of Taco Meat https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/recipes-you-can-make-with-a-pound-of-taco-meat/ Tue, 04 May 2021 20:30:53 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=collection&p=366344 Whether you have leftover taco meat or make it in batches for busy nights, these ground beef recipes are perfect for using up an entire pound.

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Garlic Beef Enchiladas

Beef enchiladas are typically prepared with corn tortillas, but my husband, Jeff, and I prefer flour tortillas. I use them in this saucy casserole that has irresistible home-cooked flavor and a subtle kick. Jennifer Standridge, Dallas, Georgia

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Presenting the Winners from Our Healthy Your Way Contest https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/healthy-your-way-contest/ Mon, 12 Apr 2021 15:11:59 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1571567 Our readers sent in their very best recipes that meet their special diet needs. From gluten-free and vegan to low-carb and light, you’d never know these healthy your way contest winners anything but delicious.

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Gluten-Free Brownie Bars

Gluten-Free Brownie Bars

I cant eat dairy or gluten, but these gluten-free brownie bars are a satisfying substitute. The brownies will still seem soft when you pull them from the oven. They are done when the edges look very lightly browned. Linda Speranza, Buckeye, Arizona
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32 Diabetic-Friendly Recipes from Grandma’s Kitchen https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/grandmas-diabetic-friendly-recipes/ Tue, 23 Mar 2021 16:13:18 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1600860 These are grandma’s best recipes that everyone can enjoy.

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Hungarian Goulash

Talk about your heirloom recipes! My grandmother made this Hungarian goulash recipe for my mother when she was a child, and Mom made it for us to enjoy. Paprika and caraway add wonderful flavor and sour cream gives it a creamy richness. Its simply scrumptious! Marcia Doyle, Pompano, Florida

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60 Healthy Super Bowl Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/healthy-super-bowl-recipes/ Tue, 19 Jan 2021 18:03:00 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=collection&p=393223 Don’t let game day munchies weigh you down. We found healthy Super Bowl recipes for your favorite game day fare—from snacks and appetizers to sandwiches and chili.

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Artichoke Steak Wraps

This simple, fast and flavorful dish is one the whole family loves. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and you can broil the steak if you don’t want to venture outside.Greg Fontenot, The Woodlands, Texas

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Your Diabetic-Friendly Meal Plan for February https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/february-diabetic-meal-plan/ Sat, 16 Jan 2021 01:00:43 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1575466 These cozy weeknight dinners are diabetic-friendly.

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Day 1: Air-Fryer Fish and Fries

Looking for easy air-fryer recipes? Try this simple fish and chips. The fish fillets have a fuss-free coating that’s healthy but just as crunchy and golden as the deep-fried kind. Simply seasoned, the crispy fries are perfect on the side. Janice Mitchell, Aurora, Colorado

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100 Semi-Homemade Recipes for When You’re Short on Time https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/semi-homemade-recipes-for-when-youre-short-on-time/ Mon, 04 Jan 2021 17:18:04 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=collection&p=774177 Whether you need a quick dinner, last-minute dessert or easy appetizer, these shortcut recipes will get the job done in a flash.

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Chocolate Comfort Cake

This moist and delicious chocolate cake is usually the first dessert to go. People even eat the crumbs. Its always my top choice for holiday dinners. Ellen Riley, Murfreesboro, Tennessee

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30 Diabetic-Friendly Holiday Slow Cooker Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/diabetic-friendly-holiday-slow-cooker-recipes/ Wed, 09 Dec 2020 15:03:46 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1567001 These special main dishes and sides are diabetic-friendly cooked in the slow cooker, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the holidays.

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Stuffing from the Slow Cooker

If you’re hosting a big Thanksgiving dinner this year, add this simple slow-cooked stuffing to your menu to ease entertaining. The recipe comes in handy when you run out of oven space at large family gatherings. I use this Crock Pot dressing recipe often. Donald Seiler, Macon, Mississippi

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Your Diabetic-Friendly Meal Plan for January https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/your-diabetic-friendly-meal-plan-for-january/ Tue, 08 Dec 2020 16:01:19 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1565680 These cozy cold-weather meals will satisfy everyone in your family.

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Day 1: Beef & Rice Stuffed Cabbage

This recipe is special to me because its an easy one-pot meal that tastes like you spent the whole day in the kitchen. My family loves it. Lynn Bowen, Geraldine, Alabama

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How to Make Latkes or Potato Pancakes https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-make-potato-pancakes/ Sat, 05 Dec 2020 09:00:35 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/?p=362315 Wondering how to make latkes for Hanukkah? Our Test Kitchen walks you through the process of making potato pancakes step by step. The results are so tasty, you'll make them all year.

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Latkes are one of those traditional Hanukkah foods that you see on the table year after yearand for good reason. These potato pancakes are versatile. They can just as easily be served up along a savory supper or finished with sweet toppers. Besides being incredibly versatile, latkes are simple to makechances are you have all the ingredients you need already on hand.

Our Test Kitchen will show you how to make latkes step by step. And don’t forget to check out a few of our other favorite Hanukkah recipes, like sufganiyot, before you start.

How to Make Latkes

To make latkes at home, you can follow our Test Kitchen’s go-to recipe here. You’ll need:

  • 3 large potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon grated onion
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil for frying

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Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Person using a food processor to shred potatoes the easy way

Latkes, of course, start with potatoes. Starchy potatoes, like Russets, work particularly well. You’ll start making your potato pancakes by washing and peeling the potatoes.

Then, if you have a food processor, now is the time to pull it out of the cupboard (and if you don’t have one, think of adding our Test Kitchen’s favorite to your wish list). Use the disk attachment to shred the potatoes. This will save you so much time. If you don’t have a food processor, though, don’t fret. An old-fashioned box grater will work just fine.

Once the potatoes are shredded, rinse them in cold water and drain well, squeezing to remove excess water.

Using a towel to remove the excess water from their shredded potatoes

Test Kitchen tip: To get every bit of excess water out, we recommend putting your rinsed potato shreds in a tea towel and wringing out all the water you can. You might even want to consider using a second dry tea towel just to make sure you get all that starchy water out. Extra starch can make the pancakes gluey.

Step 2: Get Your Potato Pancake Mix Together

Using a wooden spoon, all of the ingredients are mixed together in a glass bowl

With the potatoes prepped, you can start to add in your other ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together the beaten egg, flour, grated onion, salt and pepper in with your potatoes, making sure every shred is coated. You can also incorporate your favorite herbs into the batter at this stage. Dill, cumin, cayenne or curry powder would be welcome additions

Test Kitchen tip: Be sure to grate your onion (just use the finest side of your box grater). The tiny bits will incorporate more nicely into the mix than even the finest dice.

Step 3: Fry the Latkes

Metal spatula flipping potato pancakes as they fry in a skillet

Next, it’s time to fry up the potato pancakes. Start by heating up a quarter-inch of oil in a nonstick skillet. For this application, our Test Kitchen recommends canola, vegetable or corn oil because of their high smoke points (meaning they won’t start to smoke until they hit higher temperatures). You can learn more about the best oils for frying here.

Working in batches, drop a third-cup of potato mixture into the oil. Use a spatula to flatten into a pancake shape. Fry both sides until golden brown, using a second spatula to flip the pancakes so you don’t cross-contaminate your crispy pancakes with that first raw egg-covered spatula. Be sure not to crowd the pan. The pancakes will need a little room to get nice and crispy!

When perfectly golden brown, drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil. Once drained, they’re ready to serve.

How to Top Latkes

Metal spatula depositing potato pancakes from the skillet to a lined baking sheet

Potato pancakes are a fantastic canvas for all sorts of toppings. Sour cream, chives and lox are a classic combination, but applesauce is also tasty if you want to take these on the sweeter side. These toppings are just the start, though. Check out more ways to top latkes.

Next up: Learn how to make bourekas, savory cheese-stuffed pastries.

Try Our Other Favorite Jewish Recipes
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How to Make Tamales https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-make-tamales/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-make-tamales/#respond Tue, 01 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0000 https://toh.test.rda.net/how-to-make-tamales/ This traditional Mexican dish may take time to prepare, but tamales are actually easy enough for most cooks. Our Test Kitchen teaches you how to make tamales, with step-by-step images to guide you.

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Maybe you’ve spotted them at your local Mexican grocery store or maybe Abuela invites you over for a tamaladaeach year around the holidaysregardless of your connection, tamales are a time-honored (and tasty!) dish that everyone should try.

Thinking about making homemade tamales? They’re a major cooking project that promises a big payoff. Though they take a bit of time to prep and assemble, the steps are straightforward enough. You’ve got this!

What Are Tamales?

Tamales are corn husk-wrapped bundles filled with a corn-based dough calledmasaand a tasty filling. They’re most commonly associated with Mexican cuisine, though you can find tamales all over Latin America. Fillings vary from place to place, but the most common include pork, chicken, beef and vegetablesall swimming in chile, a sauce that’s made using garlic, cumin and dried chili peppers.

It’s traditional for friends and family to come together for a tamalada(tamale-making party), to help assemble.

Did you know?The singular version of tamales is called a tamalthough, they’re so delicious, you’ll probably never need to ask for just one.

Why Are Tamales So Popular at Christmas?

While tamales aren’t strictly a Christmas food, they’re often prepared around the holidays. They require a lot of work (hence the tamale-making parties to help the prep go quickly and joyously), so many families reserve them for special occasions.

Think of tamales sort of like turkey or Christmas cookies: Sure, you could have them any day, but making these time-intensive treats just a few times a year makes them all the more special.

How Do You Eat Tamales?

Don’t eat the husk! This is a common mistake for tamal newbies. Simply unwrap, scoop out with a fork and enjoy. A spoonful of salsa on top is optional.

How to Make Tamales

Tamales can be filled so many waysvegetables, pork, beef. One of our Test Kitchen’s favorite recipes, though, is for tender chicken tamales. Here’s what you need to make them:

Ingredients

  • 24 dried corn husks
  • 1 broiler/fryer chicken (3 to 4 pounds), cut up
  • 3 quarts water
  • 1 medium onion, quartered
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed

Dough:

Filling:

  • 6 tablespoons canola oil
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 cans (2-1/4 ounces each) sliced ripe olives, drained

Directions

Step 1: Soak the corn husks

Corn husks submerged in a glass bowl filled with water

Rinse the corn husks to remove any debris, then place into a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least two hours.

Test Kitchen Tip: There’s no shortcut for this step, so make sure you start here.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Start this step about an hour after you’ve set out the husks to soak.

In a large stockpot (at least 6 quarts), combine chicken, water, onion, salt and garlic. Bring to a boil, and then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook at a low simmer, covered, until the chicken is tender, 45-60 minutes.

Test Kitchen Tip: Check the chicken for doneness by piercing the meat; when the meat is cooked, its juices will run clear.

Step 3: Prep the chicken and broth

Remove the chicken from the broth. Let it rest on a plate or cutting board until it’s cool enough to handle. Meanwhile, pour the broth into a bowl through a strainer to remove the vegetables. Skim the fat from the top of the broth with a big spoon.

When the chicken is cool, remove the meat from the bone and shred it with two forks.

Step 4: Make the dough

Pinched off section of dough floating in a cup of water

In a large bowl, beat the shortening until it’s light and fluffy, about 1 minute. Measure out two cups of the broth, and have the masa harina ready. Gradually beat in the masa, adding small amounts at a time and alternating with the broth. Beat well until the dough is uniform and light.

Test Kitchen Tip: For a foolproof dough, do the float test. Drop a small amount of dough into a cup of cold water. The dough should float to the top. If it doesn’t, continue beating until it’s light enough to float.

Step 5: Cook a tasty filling

Back to the stovetop! In a Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Stir in the flour until blended. Cook and stir until the flour is lightly browned, seven to nine minutes. (This will remove the raw flour taste.) Stir in the seasonings, shredded chicken and four cups of the reserved broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the mixture to thicken; this should take about 45 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the tamales

How to make tamales

Drain the corn husks and pat dry, then fill them assembly line-style:

  • On the wide end of the husk, spread 3 tablespoons dough to within 1/2 inch of the edges
  • Top each with 2 tablespoons chicken mixture and 2 teaspoons olives
  • Fold the long sides of the husk over the filling. Make sure they overlap slightly for a secure closure
  • Fold the narrow end of husk over
  • Tie with a strip of husk to secure
  • Repeat until all of the husks are filled and secured

Test Kitchen Tip: Uncooked tamales can be frozen for later, just be sure to pack them tightly in freezer bags before freezing. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then steam for about 45 minutes (see instructions below).

Step 7: Steam

Tamales sitting upright in a stockpot ready to be steamed

Place a large steamer basket in a 6-quart stockpot over 1 inch of water. Place the tamales upright in the steamer. Bring the water to a boil. Let them steam, covered, until the dough peels away from the husk, about 45 minutes.

Test Kitchen Tip: This is a long steam, and the water level will drop as the water boils off. Be sure to check on the level frequently, and add more water as needed. You don’t want the pot to boil dry; this can damage the pot and makes for sad tamales.

Steps 8 and 9: Brag about your tamales; devour your tamales

Tamales stacked on top one another on a a blue plate

Dig in and enjoy your hard work! Serve this dish along with these Mexican desserts.

Got Leftovers?

Cooked tamales can be frozen, too. Let them cool, then freeze them in their husks. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and steam for about 15 minutes to heat them back up before eating.

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50 Five-Star Thanksgiving Desserts https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/five-star-thanksgiving-desserts/ Sat, 07 Nov 2020 15:00:21 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1556616 If you’ve been tapped to make dessert for Thanksgiving, these top-rated sweets are guaranteed winners.

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Citrus Cranberry Pie

To showcase abundant fall cranberries, make this beautiful lattice-topped cranberry pie. A dollop of orange cream complements the slightly tart flavor. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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12 Diabetic-Friendly Pies and Tarts https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/diabetic-pies-tarts/ Thu, 05 Nov 2020 16:04:15 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1556570 No one will be left out when dessert is served!

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Pear Tart

Pear Tart

My sister-in-law brought this pretty pastry to dinner one night, and we all went back for seconds. It is truly scrumptious. Kathryn Rogers, Suisun City, California

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The Best French Toast https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/the-best-french-toast/ Mon, 05 Oct 2020 17:37:10 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/the-best-french-toast/
There's no question that this is the best French toast recipe ever. The caramelized exterior meets a soft custardlike center that practically melts in your mouth. Not only that, but it's quick and easy, too! —Audrey Rompon, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 15 min.

Makes

4 servings

Updated: Nov. 29, 2023

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups half-and-half cream
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 8 slices day-old brioche bread (1 inch thick)
  • Optional toppings: Butter, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream and confectioners' sugar

Directions

  1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the first 7 ingredients. Preheat a greased griddle over medium heat.
  2. Dip bread into egg mixture, letting it soak 5 seconds on each side. Cook on griddle until golden brown on both sides. Serve with toppings as desired.

Using day-old bread from a bakery helps the French toast to keep its shape. If you're using commercially produced brioche, be sure to allow the bread to become slightly stale for best results.

Nutrition Facts

2 pieces: 546 calories, 24g fat (15g saturated fat), 263mg cholesterol, 786mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.

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45 Diabetic-Friendly Fish and Seafood Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/diabetic-fish-seafood-recipes/ Fri, 02 Oct 2020 10:11:40 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1535835 We’ve reeled in our best diabetic-friendly fish and seafood recipes. From fish tacos to broiled salmon, you’re sure to find a new family favorite.

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Easy Crab Cakes

Ready-to-go crabmeat makes these delicate patties easier than other crab cake recipes. You can also form the crab mixture into four thick patties instead of eight crab cakes. Charlene Spelock, Apollo, Pennsylvania

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15 Diabetic-Friendly Apple Desserts https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/diabetic-friendly-apple-desserts/ Mon, 28 Sep 2020 08:55:09 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=1534933 These diabetic-friendly apple desserts will satisfy all the cozy sweetness you crave.

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Grans Apple Cake

My grandmother occasionally brought over this wonderful cake warm from the oven. The spicy apple flavor combined with the sweet cream cheese frosting made this recipe one that we treasured. Even though I’ve lightened it up, it’s still a family favorite. Lauris Conrad, Turlock, California

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