CELEBRATE LIFE TO IT"S FULLEST!!

This is a fun collection of recipes from our Spark Brothers and Sisters to help us celebrate the holidays in their cultural, ethnic & traditional styles!

The recipes are listed in the following categories:

1. Happy New Years!! Appetizers
2. New Year's Day Dinner
3. Valentines Day- Dinner for Two
4. Mardi Gras
5. St. Patrick's Day
6. Passover Seder & Shabbat
7. Easter Sunday- Sunrise Breakfast
8. Easter - Resurrection Sunday Dinner
9. Cinco de Mayo

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

(cont...)

9. Cinco de Mayo
10. Mother's Day
11. Father's Day
12. 4th of July & Holiday Picnics
13. Kids, Parties & Birthdays
14. Halloween
15. Harvest Festivals
16. Traditional & Contemporary Native American Recipes
17. October Fest
18. Down Home Thanksgiving
19. Colonial & Early American Recipes
20. Merry Christmas!
21. Christmas Cakes Desserts
22. Homemade Christmas Gifts
23. Christmas Candy, Cookies & Goodies


Celebrate LIFE with those you LOVE every day!
Love, Vera

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is a great showpiece for a party. My children and grandchildren ask for it and everyone else raves about it.
And there are virtually no carbs (except for the crackers you eat it with).

Submitted by DAMETEMPLAR

"Bread & Wine" is the name of this cocktail from Charles Joly of The Drawing Room.

Fantastic! A little high on calories.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

low carb, low fat

Submitted by CHIREELS

These are a wonderful snack or appetizer. I like them dipped in a little mustard. Yum.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Submitted by Laura Jones - Spokane, WA
(not really sure I condone that this is healthy!)

Submitted by MARIAX2MARIA

Submitted by SPARKLE_LITE

WoW! Another great appetizer from Hawaii!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This recipe is always a hit, and very easy to make.

Submitted by DSTATZ

Delicious dip I found a recipe for that I tweaked a bit to make it lower in fat and calories. My family gobbled this up at a recent holiday party!

Submitted by BETHPROVERBS31

Brie cheese wrapped in puff pastry with a warm nut filling

Submitted by KBARGER99

Cheesy, salty, and delicious, great snack

Submitted by AHIGINBO

Delicious alterative to potato chips.

Submitted by RAMSDALE1

This dish combines the traditional New Year good luck and good fortune foods of cabbage, rice, and hog meat. Cooked into a ring representing full circle, also for good luck, this meal will be a favorite any time of the year.

Submitted by CINDERRELIC

High-test, perfectly sweet espresso "brownies" (no chocolate, but they are brown!) perfect for those parties that run into the wee morning hours! I cut these into petit-four sized pieces and decorate them with little rosettes of vanilla icing and chocolate-covered espresso beans for parties. If it's just for home noshing, though, feel free to cut them as big as you like!

Submitted by JO_JO_BA

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Use a 5lb prime rib roast
5.33oz per serving

May serve with sauce (not included in nutrients)
directions:
mix 1 cup mayo and horseradish in serving bowl. Mix 1/2 cup mayo, honey-mustard dressing and thyme in separate serving bowl. Slice meat. Serve with the sauces.

Submitted by LTLAIRE

Sweet and tasty!

Submitted by RMNUSE

Low Cal Adaptation of a Paula Dean Recipe

Submitted by KIMEBY1021

Tastes like a light fluffy biscuit. Wonderful with any dinner or even for breakfast with jam. So easy!

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

If you have never had black-eyed peas from dryed you are in for a treat.

Submitted by JOEANNI

This is a very rich and hearty mushroom scallopped potatoes with a light garlic accent.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by JENNIFERCLEMENT

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

This cheesecake is as delicious as it is beautiful!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Enjoy this lovely tea anytime. Very refreshing.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by LFERGUSON0

Submitted by SMOKYBUSTER

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Quite elegant for being so simple. Serve with roasted asparagus and cauliflower. Serve apple pie for desert topped with vanilla frozen yogurt.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

This recipe is fast, filling and super low in fat.

This recipe is modified from Ladies Home Journal- Mar 09

Submitted by DILBERTA

Spinach and feta cheese stuffed into boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Great served with rice, noodles of a great summer salad. Sure to become a family favourite.

Submitted by ALISON_T

Submitted by PHRAUGIE

Recipe courtesy Danny Boome
Show: Rescue Chef
Episode: Hot Date

Submitted by SIGUERTIN

Perfect ending to a delicious homemade Valentine's meal ♥

Submitted by LEDANSER

Submitted by CHEEKYCHOOK

Submitted by CHEEKYCHOOK

Recipe courtesy Nigelle Lawson. Marinating time not included.

Submitted by NAPLESNANCY

Submitted by DKOKORIS

Used sirloin for this...

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Submitted by SSHELTON3

Three minutes from pantry to mouth makes this sugar free, low carb treat a great way to curb that sweet tooth.

Submitted by JILLIGAN

Submitted by SHEFIT

Melt in your mouth good!!! These cupcakes are a little on the sinful side they are well worth it. I promise your family will LOVE these cupcakes all year round.....happy baking!! :-D

Submitted by SUGAR_BUM_BUM

Mini version of the classic Red Velvet Cake served with tasty Cream Cheese Frosting on top!

Submitted by BISHIFISHI

This recipe originally called for 8 squares of semi-sweet chocolate but to reduce the cocoa butter and the calories, I replaced it with 6 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup light margarine.

Submitted by TRILLIUM1204

This is a light version of the original heavy Irish Cream Cocktail.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

I don't care too much for spicy foods, but this was really good. Not too spicy, has an amazing flavor and was very moist.

Submitted by CALIGIRL94585

Turtle Soup or "Caouane" is very popular in New Orleans. The best is The Commander's Palace's Turtle Soup au Sherry.

Snapping turtles are legal to hunt with a Fishing License and can be caught in rivers and ponds.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Substituting the granulated sugar with Splenda- Sugar Blend for Baking will lower the calories.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

recipe should make something very similar to the delightful winning finger-food called the Cajun Pistol at the Gulf Shores National Shrimp Festival

Submitted by AMW211

This soup is one that all seafood lovers will enjoy. It's smooth, rich flavor warms you to the core & tantalizes your tastebuds. The broth itself soothes & gives you that warm home feeling of comfort. It's one of our favorites. Hope you all enjoy as much!

bouil·la·baisse
[bool-yuh-beys, bool-yuh-beys; Fr. boo-ya-bes]

–noun
a soup or stew containing several kinds of fish and often shellfish, usually combined with olive oil, tomatoes, and saffron.

Submitted by NOLACHERIE

The late Bill Neal has influenced young chefs across the South, and diners still enjoy his inspired recipes at this landmark restaurant in Chapel Hill. Executive chef Bill Smith has added some creative touches to the menu, such as Warm Goat Cheese Salad With Roasted Beets and Pumpkin Seeds and Hangar Steak With Bourbon Brown Sauce, but Shrimp and Grits is still a Crook's Corner classic.

Submitted by BDNIXON10

This is a very popular cajun recipe for Gumbo. for those that don't know what File it it's ground dried sassafras leaves that are ground down to a fine powder..very flavorful.

Submitted by PHILSPHATWIFE

One bite and you're transported to Louisiana!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A delicious crawfish etoufee that I occasionally add chicken breast tenderlolins to. This recipe's nutrtional information is for 1 cup of crawfish etoufee only (chicken, rice or cornbread is NOT included).

Submitted by LIVING4HIM2DAY

"Do frog legs taste like chicken?"

No. Cooked right, they have a naturally tangy flavor, smokey, tender, juicy and delicious!

Frog legs are an exotic Cajun delicacy from South Louisiana.

Grill over a very hot flame a few minutes. Frog legs have no fat. Overcooking or cooking too slow makes them dry and tasteless.

Fish them out of the bayou or contact Church Point Wholesale online for premium quality, cleaned, quick frozen legs.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is a great picture of our President Obama enjoying some Fried Frog Legs, a famous Creole delicacy in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

There was not very much that I could change in this recipe from: Emeril Lagasse, host of Emeril Live.

I love his show!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This recipe by far makes the most tender, juicy, tangy and delicious frog legs you will ever have.

Church Point Wholesale has premium quality, cleaned, quick frozen frog legs online.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is a very fresh and colourful salad. I use the stalk of the broccoli leftover when I use the heads.

Submitted by FLOWERDALEJEWEL

An old Southern dish usually served on New Year's Day with rice, greens, and cornbread. I like to make mine in my trusty crockpot!
You probably will NOT need to salt the peas as the ham serves as seasoning.

Submitted by LIFENPROGRESS

Serve over brown rice. This is great served with corn muffins and greens. Cheesecake topped with fruit makes a terrific end to this meal.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

A New Orleans Original Sandwich made on a round Italian Bread and stacked with Ham, Mortadella, Provolone & Swiss Cheeses and Italian Olive Salad.

Submitted by LIMASTAR

Submitted by DHJARRAH

Borrowed from this cooking blog:
http://thehealthycookingblog.com/cookbooks/healthy-cooking-blog/mardi-gras-king-cake-with-cream-cheese-cinnamon-filling/

Submitted by ROCKGODDESS309

This cake is extremely fattening and chock full of calories, but oh so delicious. It probably should only be made on special occasions...

Submitted by KESHAB623

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

I use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking time.

Submitted by ZINASP

I serve kale colcannon as an accompaniment to crockpot corned beef & cabbage on Saint Patrick's Day, as my crockpot never is big enough to hold potatoes too. I was surprised to find no SPRecipe for Kale Colcannon. Usually made with cabbage not kale (except on Halloween), colcannon is healthier if you make it with kale, as kale scores as the #1 most nutritious veggie on the Andi scale. This is my tweaked recipe from Mark Boyer's County Mayo Colcannon recipe in Allrecipes.

Submitted by CAROLFAITHWALKR

A wonderfully simple chunky soup

Submitted by CELTIC_WITCH

A very easy, very good tasting bread.

Submitted by AMYBETH70

Lamb stew is Irish penicillin: a rich stew full of potatoes, leeks and carrots that’ll cure whatever ails you. In traditional fashion, nothing here is browned first, just all stewed together. To keep it healthy make sure to trim the lamb of any visible fat before you cook it.

Submitted by KATIESHARON

Hearty fare for St. Patrick's Day or any day

Submitted by CREATIVELIZA

A fun pie for St Patricks day or ANY day!

Submitted by NIGHTSKYSTAR

A delightful gelatin salad made with pears and lime juice.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

From Cook This, Not That

Submitted by JACPANTS

From Cuisine

Submitted by IMELDASHOEQUEEN

This is my favorite Charoset. I had found this recipe several years ago and I have made some changes to it over the years. I have never really measured anything. This year I will make it as it is written here.

Submitted by LESLIE522

Thrown together near midnight during Passover, when I was super hungry post-workout and needed something good to eat!

Submitted by NEWMOMOVER40

A healthy version of Matzo Brei good for Passover week.

Submitted by LESLIE522

Conventional method

Submitted by LINDAMUTZIG

Root vegetables are plentiful, inexpensive and packed full of nutrients. Roast the root vegetables in the oven with fresh herbs and paprika for a warming and easy to make side dish.

Submitted by RAINSPARK

Homemade Challah Bread

Submitted by JESSIESUE212

A kugel is traditionally baked in a single large pan, but using a muffin tin is a bit more elegant — and produces an abundance of tasty browned edges. Serve the kugels as a main brunch dish or an accompaniment to pot roast or baked chicken.

Submitted by KATIESHARON

A family favorite for Shabbat

Submitted by ALIZAHH

Easy as pie, but much tastier!

Submitted by DAMIENDUCKS

This is a healthy spin on a wonderful Jewish side dish. It can also be used as a dessert! You can use water-packed pineapple tidbits in place of the peaches if you prefer.

Submitted by BETHPROVERBS31

This is a great gluten-free, dairy free recipe for Passover or any time you need a rich, impressive dessert.

Submitted by RHENRIE

Submitted by ROBYNHOME

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Breakfast is bound to be the most memorable meal of the day with this attractive souffle as its focus (excerpt from Taste of Home Intro)

Submitted by RUNNINGITOFF

Submitted by SADIE78

Submitted by SADIE78

Submitted by TRILLIUM1204

Submitted by UPTOWNRECLUSE

This makes one large pancake that serves 4.

Submitted by ~ASHLEYB~

Makes 6 fresh biscuits

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Lovely thick apple butter for everything from toast to ice cream to pork chops! It's not as smooth or rich as apple butter made with brown sugar, but for being made with Splenda, and so low calorie, it's fantastic!

Submitted by CHEFNATTY

This cute egg recipe has been a hit at many church functions!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by CHURCHES5

(Recipe reconstructed and adapted from Hildegard's circa 1157 treatise Physica: Liber Simplicis Medicinæ ) These biscuits were first made over 900 years ago by the Christian saint, Hildegard of Bingen. She said that these spice biscuits should be taken t regular intervals to increase joy and positivity! I like to substitute half of the plain flour with spelt flour, and use all organic ingredients.

Submitted by SNOGUM

Wonderful recipe to make with your kids for Easter

Submitted by BEARLEE4

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by CELTIC_WITCH

Tastes better than Olive Garden and waaaaaay healthier!

Submitted by JASONZ

8 ww point

Submitted by LAUREY1

A warm bread salad filled with flavors and nutrients!

Submitted by TONYNE

Let's face it, bright food is more appetising. The gorgeous colours and sweet flavours in this salad are very satisfying.

Submitted by LUCYLAKE

Made with honey instead of sugar.
Non fat Dry milk is also used to add flavor and not fat.

Submitted by BKMNURSING

Crisp – tender, emerald spears of fresh Spring asparagus join rich, meaty slices of mushroom under a decadent blanket of herbed lemon butter

Submitted by JO_JO_BA

delicious and LOW Cal AND LOW CARB !!

Submitted by JILLYBEAN1965

These mashed potatoes have very little fat but have a full, satisfying flavor.

Submitted by DARLINMILLS

Gravy gets a bad rap, but this tasty sauce can be made with almost no fat.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Tarts actually taste like what they sound like, a sweet and sour desert. The filling is lime flavored and the fruits are covered by a shiny sugary glaze. Delicious!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Delicious

Submitted by LESLIEANN492002

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

drunk chicken with rice

Submitted by MSCANELA

i took this from allrecipes.com & tailored to fit our family. not really the healthiest but i'm sure there are ways to make it better for you.

we usually add shredded lettuce & tomatoes on top.

Submitted by NSSK06

Puerto Rican style stewed beef. Served on rice and accompanied by fried sweet plantains.

Submitted by BOBB1216

Fast Recipe. The flavor combination of cumin, chile, coriander and cinnamon is characteristic of latin american cooking and is esp good with pork.

Submitted by HERCKLE

Delicious pork roast is stuffed inside crispy taco shells for an unbelievable dinner! Serve with all the fixin's and my recipe for taco rice, yum!

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

This is a very easy and inexpensive recipe to make!

Roasting your peppers will give them a richer level of flavor. This recipe uses De Jarbol and Japones Chile Peppers. Just grill or broil for a few minutes and let them char a little bit to add a smokey flavor to your dish. Enjoy!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Very fresh & delicious salad which is a perfect compliment for grilled meat.

Submitted by LOOKING_UP

A delicious soup - serve hot OR cold.
If you wish, top with a bit of reduced fat sour cream, slice of lime, and sprinkle of cilantro.

Submitted by TONSERS

My husband is from a mexican background, and his guacamole is the best! Everyone loves it, and it's so easy to make.

Submitted by DINNYMO26

Prize winning green tomatoe that will add some Feista to any party!

Submitted by BGGARDEN

These cookies will melt in your mouth!

Submitted by DEMENTEDGURL

Submitted by NESSABESSA3842

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

A Delish Dish!

Submitted by ECLEMENTE

A wonderful soup to warm up those chilly winter nights and it is packed with Vitamin A.

Submitted by COURTNEYBECKETT

Delicious Oregano Lemon Chicken! I found this recipe on www.allrecipes.com. It's healthy and delicious. I make it often for my fiance' ( who hates healthy- so he thinks!!!)

Submitted by KBUTLER118

This side dish came from a Weight Watchers cookbook. It's a good option for when you've got something else using the oven.

Submitted by ERICACLAY10

Submitted by EJRICHARD72

Add a burst of color to your dinner table with this glazed carrot recipe. Although impressive, this is a nearly effortless side dish that easily serves a dinner party of 12. In addition to being a great source of Vitamin C and Calcium, fresh orange carrots provide antioxidants in the form of carotenoids and beta carotene, which are converted into Vitamin A.

Submitted by MARILENASPARK

Great side-dish for ringing in the autumn!

Submitted by KAMIKALIKIMAKA

Submitted by SO1234

Submitted by IRONORCHID

Submitted by LESWHO

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by GIDGETJO

Another Christmas brunch favorite of my family. They are great for an anytime impressive side dish!

Submitted by BABYLUVMONKEY

lean steak in a great, flavorful marinade!

Submitted by TOBICAE

Submitted by LARAINE

Creamy parmesan infused English Peas.

Submitted by JENNIFERP_04

I usually serve this over baked potatoes, but it is also good served over rice, pasta or even grilled chicken.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Submitted by ASHLYNNE12

Beautiful, easy to make pie! All family loves it!

Submitted by PORTIER.N

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Our girls love ribs but ordering them at restaurants means high price and high calories so I showed them how to cook ribs at home with 1/4 of the calories. A take on another Cook This recipe.

Submitted by KUSTOMDAME

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Definitely not on the starter plan, but all things in moderation. Best ribs you can cook. Remember, low and slow.

Submitted by WAZAROO

Light & Creamy Potato Salad

Submitted by MARIEL27

Finger licking good Kentucky Beef Back Ribs and sauce recipes!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Submitted by SANDYLUVSSPARK

A light and delicious side dish served with fish or burgers, the "southern" way.

Submitted by GETSANGEL

Refreshing! A lovely twist on the Southern Mint Julep! Great for an afternoon reception.

Adapted from: Southern Living

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Fun! Fun! Fun! A great tasting and fast meal for seafood loving company. Charleston, SC Style!

For more fun recipes see:

"Take A Bite Off The Wild Side" at:

http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/Cookbooks.asp?cookbook=389985

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

A word to the wise, don't have one Mai Tai after another!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Low-cal summer delight!

Submitted by DIVEGIRL1

a Jell-O Classic

Submitted by TRAVELCHICK67

Great for your 4th of July parties!

Submitted by KRHINKY

Does not taste like watermelon, it just looks like it when you cut it. Kids LOVE it!

Submitted by LYNDSEYNIC

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is my favorite sloppy joe mix ever!

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

The big change was substituting Fat Free Cream Cheese for these "Perky Penquins" adapted from Quick Cooking July/August 1999.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Slightly modified from Cooking Light Magazine/myrecipes.com.

Submitted by BARBIEGIRL16

These tasty little crackers are adapted from: Taste of Home.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by MARYXO

This is a great appetizer for a Birthday Party!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Great kid food!! Mine seem to really enjoy these better than on the bun!

Submitted by JDGONZALES

Dear Fellow Bootleggers,
The secret to a good batch of Root Beer is the fermentation of the yeast. Follow DIRECTIONS step by step to ensure success.

Simple Home Bootlegger's Kit:
Large Funnel
Measuring Cups and Spoons
1- 2 Liter Plastic Bottle and Cap

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by CPOOLE

Although skull-shaped pans are not mandatory, they make the entire process approximately 5x more spooky.

Submitted by SERPENTINE

This is a soft cheese ball decorated for a Halloween Party. Serve as a soft spread for whole grain crackers and raw vegetables.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Partying in costume calls for easy-eating fare, and these cheesy monster digits fit the bill.

Submitted by SSOBEHT

Decorate the inside of a clear glass with a jack o'lantern face, and then enjoy this yummy autumn smoothie! Fun for the whole family.

Submitted by YARDENXANTHE

This is a great party dip, always gets eaten up. I set the number of servings at 10.

Submitted by AMANDARIDG

Disguises aren't just for Halloween. Surprise your family with these dressed-up, spooky-looking snacks any time of year. Kids can help by spooning the pizza sauce on the English muffin and making the mummy face with the cheese and vegetables.

Submitted by SSOBEHT

Here's a Halloween trick your child will have no trouble pulling off--turning a ripe banana into a Halloween treat!

Submitted by SSOBEHT

Set out a platter of these creepy peepers, and your Halloween party guests are bound to do a double take.

Submitted by SSOBEHT

Makes carving pumpkins memorable and keeps me out of the candy bowl when serving up treats for our trick-or-treaters! Add more Fiesta Party Dip if you want a bit more spice!

Submitted by PAMSELLERS

I got the recipe for the coconut filling from this site: http://www.lynnskitchenadventures.com/2010/03/homemade-mounds-bars.html. You can put whatever filling you want in them though
This is a link to where I bought the Frog Mold but you can use any type of mold. It would affect the NI though.: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EBMUNU/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_alp_Fwndob0Q9YEJA

Submitted by STACYE13

For the Harry Potter fan, here's a diet soda recipe for Butterbeer.

Submitted by VJKERNER1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by LINJEN

A great fall dish...baked apples filled with ham and sweet fruit.

Submitted by JONESIES

Cook overnight and stick a few cloves in wild game meats to reduce their wild game taste. Great for Dutch Oven at Campsite.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

I love this Risoto recipe!
Recipe from: Food Network's Robin Miller, Rice to the Rescue

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This delicious vegan chili is the perfect meal for a cool, fall day. For more recipes like this, visit The Front Burner.

Submitted by THEFRONTBURNER

Use the garden's last harvest to make a warm rich, delicious seasonal soup
Loaded with Vitamin C - colds stay at bay

Submitted by MOLLYINMN

Submitted by TABBYKAT75

Inspired by a certain popular cafe's breakfast souffles, I made my own using a few simple ingredients I had on hand

Submitted by SUPERTROUPERJEN

Great for Lughnasdh & other harvest celebrations.

Submitted by CELTIC_WITCH

Not your typical pumpkin Bread

Submitted by BABYLUVMONKEY

A delicious, nutritious cake--wonderful in the fall with fresh apples from the orchard.

Submitted by WIFEANDMOM

lightened up deliciousness!!

Submitted by EUNIFLICK

"Do you know American's Original People?"

Did you know that many Native American tribes and nations were farming as early as 1200 BC?

Did you know that 60% of the world's food eaten today is of American Indian origin?

Did you know that cotton cloth was invented by the Native Americans?

Over 600 Indian Nations & Tribes still live in the United States and 108 live in California. And countless tribes live in Mexico and South America.

Some 75 million Indians lived in North America before Columbus came. By his second trip, Old World diseases had infected and killed two thirds of the New World's American Indians.

Thank you:
Facts taken from a newsletter from the Manataka American Indian Council- "Do you know American's Original People?"

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

"Do you know American's Original People?"

In the 2000 census North American Indians and Alaskan Natives number only about 2.5 million.

Native American Indians believe that patience is considered a good quality and that respected members of some Nations are ones who shares and gives their wisdom and wealth to others.

My inspiration in collecting and sharing these recipes is to continue in that tradition of sharing wisdom and wealth.

My cookbook also has a Mini Tutorial for you and your family to learn "Pow Wow Etiquette"!

Enjoy,
Love, Vera

My Sparkpeople Cookbook is "Food Origins ~ Native American" is at: http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/Cookbooks.asp?cookbook=462388

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is an easy, tender, delicious bear roast that you can cook over night in a crock pot or in your Dutch Oven at the campsite.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Slow Roast or Crockpot overnight or roast in your Dutch Oven at the campsite!

Your choice. Either cook your wild boar leg in the oven at a low temperature for several hours.

Or brown it on all sides in a large cast iron skillet, place in a a slow cooker with a can each of Onion Soup, Mushroom Soup and water.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Wild meats tend to have a "gamey" flavor. You can reduce that taste by skimming away all excess fat.

You can grill or pan fry your streaks.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

My Grandmother made squirrel for my father almost every time we came to the farm to visit. Cooked right, squirrel is a real treat!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This soup is amazing =]

Submitted by IVAN_CK

My Mother is Creek and my Father is Seminole.

Making fry bread takes alot of practice. Keep trying if your first batch isn't perfect.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by CREATIVELIZA

Submitted by HERCKLE

no need for sugar!

Submitted by MOONTOES1

Many southeastern foods are adapted from the native tribes. Some of the Cherokee dishes are fried green tomatoes, greens or ramps, cornbread, hoecakes, bean bread, many peanut dishes.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

American Indian

Submitted by WALLOWINGBULLD

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by SLBBW66

Low calorie and low fat. This dish is very rich and satisfying. You can substite egg beaters for eggs to lessen cholesterol

Submitted by LADYG83

In my house, pumpkins are for eating--not carving! Stuff small pumpkins for an interesting presentation.

Submitted by SP_STEPF

I love hominy. When I was a child, I called it harmony. Enjoy!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Acorn bread is a delicious, sweet, crumbly dessert bread that was introduced to Colonists by Native Americans.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is a twist on a recipe from recipezaar.com. The cinnamon honey butter makes it sweet enough. You can add sugar if you have a sweet tooth. If you don't have cinnamon honey butter, you can use butter, cinnamon and sugar.

Submitted by VSWDMB

Lovely, warm and aromatic. Perfect for relaxing on the porch on a cool fall evening.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Wojapi is a thick berry sauce. If your berries are ripe and tasty, there is no need to add additional sweeteners.

Traditionally, Wojapi is not made with cornstarch, flour or sugar.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Natural food stores carry Sassafras Root in a dried form. It will resemble wood chips. Sassafras tea may act as a diuretic, reducing excess water weight and swelling.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Dumpling Lovers Unite!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This was from another SP user, but had no ingredient details. I wanted to ensure the calculations were correct.

Submitted by BEHAPPY0201

Based on the recipe from http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Bavarian-Sausage-Supper

Submitted by DRAWNTHISWAY

Top sirloin roast with garlic, potatoes, onions, carrots, and green peppers cooked slow cooked to perfection.

Submitted by CELTIC_WITCH

Definately not low-cal, but oh-so-good. If you are looking for a luscious splurge, than you have come to the right recipe.

Submitted by GREENLEE25

Adapted from "Harvest Sausage & Vegetable Casserole" in "Betty Crocker Slow Cooker Meals". I substituted Lite Kielbasa for Smoked Turkey Sausage, which was in the original recipe. Photo courtesy of "Betty Crocker Slow Cooker Meals".

Submitted by KALATHIA

A crispy fried meatball, filled with cream cheese and sausage. This is Grandma's recipe made lighter. Tasty and rich. This is a lighter version using neufchatel instead of regular cream cheese. The sauerkraut helps the calorie count. At about 60 calories each, they are about like eating a cookie, but so much better! Makes about 11 dozen, 1 inch balls. A lot of work, but worth it for special occasions. We make them at Christmas and eat them through the New Year.

Submitted by SLCCOLE

A traditional german dish that i modified to be less fatty by replacing bacon by smoked beef

Submitted by BINEMELLES

Serve with rye muffins, roasted potatoes and steamed carrots. Delicious and perfect for Sunday Supper.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Submitted by EGANZER

Home Made Noodles

Submitted by STEPHYBROWN

Submitted by SEAN.THOMAS

A yummy use for leftover mashed Potatoes.

Submitted by WHITEWOLF155

Submitted by GAUNTZERO

A great recipe for some incredible rolls. These are great for deli sandwiches, hot roast beef, or even just as a light snack. They taste very much like a traditional soft pretzel.

Submitted by WCALLISTER

A great quick and easy breakfast! Serve with plenty of fresh fruit and powdered sugar and/or maple syrup.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

This cheese cake is very light and rises extremely high in the oven, but will not stay that high. It is a family favorite for any holiday or celebration.

Submitted by ZOEMOM37

Submitted by BAYPATH012

This Cake was made without any butter. I used none fat sour cream as a substitute. The plums can be replaced with any of your favorite fruits such as peaches, apples, cherries and prunes. Try this with a spoon full of none dairy whipping cream and you will be in heaven.

Submitted by MMYRD2000

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Adapted from Betty Crocker.com website (this is lighter version) I used lighter versions of everything

Submitted by MOMOFCHANCE

I love this sweet glaze for ham. Great for Christmas or Easter dinner.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Simple, perfect roast turkey just like grandma used to make. The flavors of the turkey really stand out. Stuff with your favorite dressing

Submitted by TABBYKAT75

Great for family get-togethers or holiday feasts... easy and delicious.

Submitted by TRILLIUM1204

An amazing and plentiful stuffing made mostly with veggies. Low fat.

Submitted by ZEN_GIRL

Proportion your stuffing so you can control how much you eat, not to mention you get a nice crispy top too!

Submitted by SHELBSYD

Submitted by NATBAER

Want to minimize the damage at Thanksgiving dinner? Try this Turkey gravy. It leaves caloric room for the cornbread dressing!

Submitted by HAPPYWIFE

My family loves green bean casserole, but it is sooo fattening!! So, here is our modified version that is now a favorite in our home for special holidays! When I bring it for potlucks, I never bring any home!!

Submitted by SEWINGMEG

Great Appetizer!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

A sweet potato casserole so delicious, you won't believe it is vegan and good for you!

Submitted by OHSHEGLOWS

I can't take credit for this recipe, as I found this on the message boards, but didn't see it posted here. These are delicious and healthy! I think they taste like pumpkin pie.

Submitted by SUPERSILLYGIRL

Submitted by PUPPYWHISPERS

Sugar free cranberry relish.

Submitted by 2BFREE2LIVE

8-10 tart apples, pared, cored, and thinly sliced (6 Cups)
3/4 to 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
4 tbsp Four
1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
Dash Ground Nutmeg
2 Pillsbury Pie Crusts (Ready to bake/Refrigorated)

Submitted by LAHAAN

Thanksgiving is not complete without this yummy dessert.

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Beautiful! Not greasy at all. Crispy outside. Tender & Juicy inside! For the recipe, go to:

http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/cookbooks.asp?cookbook=389985

My cookbook "Take A Bite Off The Wild Side!" has a step by step guide for Deep Fried Turkey!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

A favorite at Christmas, this is great for dinner and leftovers.

We grew up with Ham Hocks and Collard Greens!

I have modified the recipe to lower the fat. Remove the fat and skin. Tear the meat into strips and mix it back in with the greens.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Smoked Pork Neck Bones add a lot of smokey ham flavor to the greens.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by SADIE78

The Alternative to Stuffing

Submitted by FEATHEREDPINES

What I like about this method of cooking potatoes, is that you get that roasted potato taste, from the stove. This is convenient, when I need the oven for something else-- plus, I think it's just plain fast!
I use a non-stick skillet with a tight fitting lid-- that way I don't need to use much olive oil.
Sometimes I use small Yukon Gold or red potatoes-- but I love fingerling potatoes that best.

Submitted by FOODIEWIFE

2tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt
1tsp smoked paprika
ground black pepper
350g sweet potatoes

Submitted by PATH53

The BEST homemade Macoroni & cheese ever!!

Submitted by KRHINKY

A must-have casserole on the Thanksgiving table. Delicious!

Submitted by BUDGETMOM

This is a delicious side dish or can have as main meal. For lower calories, use turkey bacon instead.

Submitted by 4CHRIST777

It's simple and yummy. All you need is time. Well, and an oven.

Submitted by SUNNYDALEBETTY

Cracklin' Cornbread is one of my family's Thanksgiving tradition.

Cracklings are pork skin that is fried until the fat is rendered off leaving tiny crispy pieces of skin.

You can substitute it with fried bacon. But beware! High Calories!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

"Chitlins" or Chitterlings are the small intestine of a hog. My NA Grandfather was a hog farmer and he used every bit of the hog he could.

Cooked properly it is a fine meal. Use potatoes to absorb the smell of the chitterlings while cooking.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Moist and yummy. My family can't get enough of it.

Submitted by CHELLEBELLE104

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by SSINATRA

Toss the canned cranberry jelly and use this homemade version instead. It's ready in no time, and it's full of healthy fruit!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A Christmas made straight from the heart... and home! Buckwheat flour added into the crust makes for both a tender and flavourful dough. A layer of thin apple slices underneath hearty spiced mincemeat adds texture and interest to the dessert too! I used my own home-made mincemeat for this, but jarred is fine... just pick one you like!

I highly recommend you serve this with rum raisin ice cream!

Submitted by JO_JO_BA

Very good and Low Calorie

Submitted by STUTTERBOX

Celebrate the Pioneer Spirit!

Enjoy some great recipes for Early American Breads, Olde Fashioned Candies, Canning & Preserves, Dried Meats, BBQ Rubs, Spices, Infused Herb Oil & Pickles!

More great recipes and the Canning and Drying techniques can be found in my Sparkpeople Cookbook "The Pioneer Spirit ~ Early American Recipes".

http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/cookbooks.asp?cookbook=524597

Love,
Vera

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Dear Spark Friends!

Thanks for visiting my cookbook "The Pioneer Spirit ~ Early American Recipes".

This is a great collection of 280 Colonial, Early American & Contemporary Recipes gathered from our Spark Brothers and Sisters!

The recipes are easy to locate as they are listed from A-Z with special categories for Breads, Canning , Candy, Drying, Pickling, Spices & Dry Rubs.

Enjoy!!
Love, Vera

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Easy, no-fuss delicious roast duck. The cooking technique makes the skin crispy and renders most of the fat out. Recipe from Gourmet Magazine.

Submitted by LITTLE_NIKKE

Quick 'n easy after dinner treat (or breakfast)!

Submitted by BEEHEALTHY2

Submitted by EM4488

Healthy easy-to-make dish with great aroma. I used olive oil instead of butter in this recipe: I believe, it taste much better this way.

Submitted by IRONORCHID

Submitted by BARBARASDIET