leek and kale patties with black-eyed peas

Thursday is European/Potato Night

I made some wonderful patties using leeks, kale and mashed potatoes. I pan-fried them in a little oil to give them a crisp crust. I cooked black-eyed peas with tomatoes, a dash of sugar and salt. I love making black-eyed peas because they cook in the pressure cooker in 10 minutes without needing to be soaked. I grilled asparagus to add some color and just because I love asparagus and they will soon be history for another year.

All in all I thought the flavors were great, the textures right on...but, family only thought it was 'okay.' I wonder if cooking the meal makes a difference in the perception of the taste.

Cost Breakdown:

1 c dry black-eyed peas: $.50

tomatoes: $2

onion, garlic. spices: $1

leeks: $2

kale: $2

asparagus: $3.50

potatoes: $.50

Total to feed a family of 6:

$11.50

cacciatore

Wednesday is Italian/Pasta Night

On my search for a Food Network recipe a week or so ago, I came across Chicken Cacciatore. It looked good so I put it on the menu. I made my Light Seitan (chicken like), tore it into medium sized pieces and seared them in  a little olive oil. I sauteed mushrooms, onions and peppers, deglazed with red wine, added some vegetable stock and simmered the whole shebang for around 20 minutes. This gave the sauce enough time to establish a wonderful depth and richness. To finish the sauce I added a few tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and some basil.

Everyone really liked it - peppers and all. I served it over pasta and with a green salad. Very Italian! Delizioso!

Cost Breakdown:
seitan: $2
onion, pepper, garlic, mushroom: $4
red wine and veg broth: $1
pasta: $2
salad: $3
Total to feed a family of 5:
$12.00