Black Eyed Peas

Black Eyed Peas

3 cups of dry black eyed peas

A pound of diced bacon

Fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon of garlic

2 tablespoons of better than bouillon

Two diced jalapeños

One diced onion

4 ounce can of diced green chilies

One sliced jalapeño (leave the seeds in)

In a large stock pot saute the bacon, onion and jalapeños in butter and olive oil until the onions are translucent. Add garlic, cilantro and green chilies. Add the beans and enough water to cover completely. Do not soak the peas but rinse them thoroughly. Add better than bouillon. Bring to boil and reduce heat to a vigorous simmer until the peas have a nice semi-firm consistency. Add additional water as necessary. This could take up to 90 minutes.

Cheese Square Brownies

One of my favorite childhood memories from Christmas in Oklahoma was the wonderful cheese Squares Mama Mable made. We called them cheese brownies. This is a simple and delicious hors d’oeuvre. it is perfect to have around the house during the holidays. Or, what a great gift for friends and neighbors. Enjoy!

Ingredients and directions for this recipe:

• 5 Eggs

• ¼ Cup of flour

• ¼ TSP of baking powder

• Pinch of salt

• One cup of cottage cheese

• ½ Stick of melted butter

• 4 oz. Can of green chiles

• 2 Cups of grated monterey jack cheese

Put in 9 x 9 glass dish and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350 degrees for 30 minutes.