Comfort Food

After the week we had, we were in definete need of something comforting. Well, at least I was and I plan the means. Not having failed me yet, I decided to try out Ellie's Oven Fried Chicken. Serve this along with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes and Butter lettuce wedges topped with ranch dressing and you've got yourself a very light comforting meal.

The chicken was really fantastic; it remained crisp and I did not miss the frying at all. Although next time I think I may bake it on a rack so the bottom crisps as well. The mashed potatoes were creamy and tasty, probably partly because I busted out my $10 wedge of parmigiano reggiano. And as always, the dressing was great. I really don't know why I ever bought dressing out of a bottle? It is so easy to whip up a dressing with whatever you have in the pantry. Each recipe really delivered and I will keep these in mind for when I am wanting something familiar.

This meal very much reminded me of my Mom. She grew up in a small town in North Carolina and always served us down home good cookin'. When she married my father, she did not know how to cook spaghetti and considered it exotic. It is funny how that was the mindset, considering the access we have to food and recipes now. She has strayed a bit and makes spaghetti and stir-fry, but still remains true to her roots since that is what they are accustomed to. So, this meal is for you Mom, thanks for eating my Minestrone when you came to visit!