Inspiration & Recipes Archives - Page 11 of 12

Super Bowl Recipe Favorites

On February 5, the Patriots will face off against the Falcons in the Super Bowl. This is going to be a big game in Patriots’ country and your guests are going to have a large appetite to match. Make sure your spread is as memorable as this game is sure to be.

Try these five championship-worthy favorite recipes to serve during the big game:

1) Chili

Is there anything better than the deliciously combined flavors of a hearty chili? With nutty, smoky cumin, and sugary sweetness balancing the tarty tomatoes, Pip and Ebby‘s self-proclaimed “best chili on earth” recipe is comfort in a bowl. Just what you need when watching the Patriots make history.

2) Baby Back Ribs

There’s nothing quite as finger-licking good as homemade BBQ sauce dripping off slow-smoked ribs. First mix together the spice rub to imbue the meat with plenty of flavor. These fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs from Bay Area Bites are perfect for your guests to anxiously gnaw away on as they watch football history in the making, or at least enjoy the halftime show.

3) Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

The-Best-Slow-Cooker-Pulled-Pork — via Slow Cooker Gourmet

Prepare this perfectly spiced pulled pork the night before to give yourself extra time to prep for your guests. With just the right amount of apple cider vinegar to give the tender pork a zip of extra flavor, this game day staple from Slow Cooker Gourmet can be served as sandwiches, tacos, or on its own. We recommend sandwiches, to avoid mixing pointy objects and high emotions.

4) Honey BBQ Wings

Crispy-Baked-Honey-BBQ-Wings — via A Night Owl

It simply would not be the Super Bowl party without a plate filled with crispy wings. A Night Owl‘s recipe for baked honey bbq wings is easy, leaving frying completely out of the delicious equation. The sweetness of honey and the tangy spicy of hot sauce will satisfy even the most devoted fan, turning their attention from the screen even if just for a moment.

5) Garlic Parmesan Wings

Crispy-Baked-Garlic-Parmesan-Chicken-Wings — via Joyful Healthy Eats

There’s no rule against serving two different types of wings during the big game. Pleasantly surprise your guests with Joyful Healthy Eats cheesy twist on this football fan favorite. Smoked paprika and red pepper flakes delight the palate while the sprinkled-on parmesan will have your guests licking their lips for more.

Want more Super Bowl snack ideas?

Visit us in North Andover. We’re always here to answer your questions.

Set It and Forget It Slow Cooker Favorites

After a long day of work, taking care of the kids, or both, the last thing most of us want to do is be in the kitchen for hours preparing dinner. We spend enough time during the day running around. Meals should be easy, delicious, and satisfying. That’s why the slow cooker is one of the best tools you can have in your kitchen.

Here are some of our favorite recipes that you can set and forget:

1) Super Tender Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs

Super-Amazing-Slow-Cooker-Italian-Meatballs — via Chef Savvy

Unlike a lot of recipes, these meatballs from Chef Savvy don’t require any frying or browning in a pan. Instead, they develop a nice color in your oven’s broiler before you put them in your slow cooker. That means no greasy mess to clean up. The sauce the meatballs cook in is just as easy to prepare. All you have to do is combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and a few dried herbs.

2) Slow Cooker Braised Short Ribs

Short ribs are the ultimate indulgence. They’re rich in taste and cook wonderfully in a Crock Pot. This recipe from Big Bear’s Wife is no exception. While they take about seven to nine hours to cook, the end result is worth it. Every single ingredient, from the garlic to the honey, melds together for a hearty meal that pairs wonderfully with a side dish like mashed potatoes.

3) Slow Cooker “Melt in Your Mouth” Pot Roast

There’s nothing quite like a juicy pot roast whose tender meat falls apart with a fork. With a gravy-style broth full of delicious seasonings as the perfect complement, every bite of this recipe from Joyously Domestic will warm your belly on a cold winter night. This dish makes the perfect next-day afternoon meal, so make enough to save some, if you can.

Want more slow cooker ideas?

Visit us in North Andover. We’re always here to answer your questions.

A New Year, A New You

It’s possible you may have overindulged during the holidays. Luckily, the start of the new year represents a new beginning and, for some, the opportunity to be more healthy.

Healthy food doesn’t have to be bland. Here are some recipes packed with flavor that won’t pack on the pounds.

1) One Pan Roasted Pork with Sweet Potato, Pear, Apple and Garlic

People don’t often think of pork as lean, but it actually is considered white meat. That said, if not cooked properly this cut can easily dry out. Garlic Matters’ recipe for roasted pork tenderloin keeps the meat moist with the help of pears, apples, and sweet potatos, which release juices as they cook. For best results, let the tenderloin rest rest before cutting and serving.

2) Lamb Tagine with Dates and Apricots

lamb-tagine-with-dates-apricots-and-honey2 — via Kevin is Cooking

A tagine is perfect for a cold winter’s night. It’s filling, and most of the recipe can be cooked in advance. In fact, the flavor only intensifies and improves the longer it sits. This comes from Kevin is Cooking and incorporates lamb leg with dates and tangy apricots. Orange peel and honey are added to the sauce to create a sweet, exotic taste that elevates this meal to the next level.

3) Easy Asian Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing

This salad from Feed me Phoebe is sure to wow. Chicken breast is cooked in a cast iron skillet until golden brown before being placed on a bed of Romaine lettuce and topped with chopped peanuts, carrots, and a creamy dressing made of all-natural peanut butter, gluten-free tamari, honey, lime, and cayenne pepper.

4) Winter Cobb Salad

Who said salads have to be boring? Begin Within Nutrition’s cobb feels indulgent thanks to avocados and maple-roasted chickpeas, despite the fact it’s low calorie. It’s also vegan and gluten-free. Healthy fats, protein, and fiber mean you’ll feel full after eating without the bloat or sluggishness that can accompany heavier dinners. If you’d like to make your own vinaigrette, try combining Dijon mustard, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper.

Want more healthy ideas?

Visit us in North Andover. We’re always here to answer your questions.

The 5 Meats of Christmas

One key decision that can help make Christmas special is what meat to serve at dinner. With so many options to choose from, selecting a cut that is mouth-watering and elegant can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help.

Here are our recommendations for what will satisfy even the pickiest eaters:

1) Beef Tenderloin

If you love filet mignon, this is the holiday roast for you. Use our beef roasting guide as a resource to help perfectly cook this savory meat to your liking. To ensure moist deliciousness in every bite, always remember to let your meat rest after cooking and before slicing. Pair this delectable beef with horseradish or béarnaise as the perfect complimentary sauce.

2) Crown Roast of Pork

A crown roast is created by taking a bone-in pork loin and assembling it into a circle with the ribs pointed upward. It is a showstopper and perfect for special occasions like Christmas. These roasts come with 12 to 16 ribs, which you can slice into individual chops for serving. When it comes to cooking time and temperature tips, look no further than our crown roast cooking instructions. Decorate your meat with gold foil chop frills for an extra special touch, available for purchase at the Butcher Boy meat counter.

3) Prime Rib

Prime rib are sold either bone-in or boneless. When serving boneless prime rib, plan on 3/4 to 1 pound per person. If you opt for bone-in, one rib for every two people is a safe bet. Whether you serve bone-in or boneless, consult our guide to find the cooking temperature that works best for each cut. Pick up our delicious homemade au jus, ideal for dipping or drizzling on top.

4) Spiral Ham

For ease with your big crowd, serve a spiral pre-sliced ham. Our hams come pre-cooked, so follow these directions for heating the ham to keep it nice and juicy. Pour Butcher Boy’s ham glaze on top while heating for some added sweetness. We also carry a traditional raisin sauce that can be served on the side.

5. Holiday Short-Cut Rump Roast

Another delicious steak roast. While it’s called the holiday roast, we now carry this crowd-favorite all year round. A great value, this steak is packed with flavor. Many like to season this roast with Butcher Boy garlic-pepper steak-house seasoning, a delicious dry rub and one of our customers’ favorites.

Want more tips? Take a look at our Holiday Order Guide or roasting guides on our website or stop by our store in North Andover and let our butchers answer all your questions.

Merry Christmas from all of us at Butcher Boy!

Simple and Elegant Appetizers for Your Holiday Party

Hosting a holiday party can be stressful, even if you’ve done it for years. We’re here to help. The appetizers listed below are delicious and simple, so you have one less thing to worry
about and can spend more time enjoying your family and friends.

1) Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Whipped Goat Cheese and Pesto

There’s something indulgent and sophisticated about beef tenderloin that makes it perfect
for a holiday party. Domesticate Me has created a crostini that will wow your guests with its presentation and taste. The thinly cut beef rests upon a pillow of whipped goat cheese and topped with pesto. The end result is a bite-sized morsel that is divine. And no one will believe you when you tell them it took you less than 45 minutes to make.

2) Holiday Cocktail Meatballs

Cocktail meatballs are a party favorite. But too often, people resort to the frozen kind that’s anything but mouth-watering. In this recipe created by Food52, the meatballs are slathered in a homemade tangy sauce, which is offset with the addition of brown sugar. To save time, make the sauce in advance and reheat right before serving.

3) Lamb Lollipops with Rosemary and Garlic

Nothing says elegance like rack of lamb. The ingredients in this appetizer, which comes from Kitchen Swagger, include fragrant rosemary and pungent garlic. Searing these lollipops in a hot cast iron skillet creates a nice sear on the outside while leaving the inside moist and succulent.

4) Figs Prosciutto

Soup Addict’s Figs Prosciutto is the perfect trifecta of sweet, savory, and smoky. Did we
mention this hors d’oeuvre couldn’t be easier to prepare? In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that will melt in your mouth. Trust us when we say the hardest part will be waiting for these figs to cool off after coming out of the oven.

Want more appetizer ideas?

Visit us in North Andover. We’re always here to answer your questions.

Cooking the Perfect Turkey: 6 Tips to Try This Holiday

Thanksgiving is a big holiday with an even bigger focus on food. To help you get ready for the day with confidence, we put together a list of the important things to remember as you roll up your sleeves and start cooking for the big day.

1) Plan Ahead

How to gauge how large a turkey you need? Plan on about 1 to 1½ pounds of turkey per person. Of course, if you love leftovers as much as we do, no one will complain if you choose a bird that’s a little bigger.

2) More Flavor, Less Effort

For those who would rather skip the stuffing, try loosely filling your bird with aromatics such as herbs, celery, garlic, and carrots. These can add great flavor to your dinner while simplifying your time in the kitchen.

3) Keep Things Juicy

A tasty way to keep your turkey moist is to rub butter under its skin before it goes in the oven. The melting butter will help ensure each bite is juicy and flavorful, guaranteeing full bellies and satisfied smiles from everyone at the table.

4) Patience is a Virtue

It’s a challenge, but try to resist opening the oven door to peek at your turkey while it cooks. Opening the oven lets heat escape and allows temperature fluctuations that can result in a poorly cooked turkey. Try to relax and let the oven do its thing.

5. Know When It’s Done

If you don’t have one already, it’s worth investing in an instant-read thermometer to check your turkey. You want it to reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°. An instant-read thermometer is the best way to get an accurate reading. Just make sure the thermometer isn’t touching the bone, which can give a false reading.

6. Just a Little Longer…

The table is set, the turkey is out of the oven, but don’t start carving just yet. Let your turkey sit and rest after coming out of the oven. This allows the juices to spread through the meat and unlock the best flavor in every bite. It’s hard to wait, but your guests will agree it was worth the wait.

For more details on how to perfectly cook a delicious turkey this Thanksgiving, have a look at our Turkey Roasting Guide. Now, are you ready to get cooking? Check out our Thanksgiving Order Guide to see what we’re offering this holiday, including meat options, sides, desserts, and store hours. And a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving from all of us at Butcher Boy!

5 Easy Sides to Take Your Thanksgiving to the Next Level

When it comes to Thanksgiving, the turkey is the star, but side dishes are what complete the meal. Sides don’t have to be fancy or complicated. In fact, some of the most delicious originate from the simplest of recipes. We’ve listed some of our favorites below:

1) Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta

Who said vegetables have to be boring? This delectable side comes from Kelly at Just a Taste and combines crispy pancetta, Brussels sprouts and a homemade balsamic vinegar reduction. The savoriness of the pancetta is balanced out by the sweetness of the reduction, creating a winning combination.

2) Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing

This recipe, courtesy of Savory Simple, calls for two ingredients that that make every dish better: sweet Italian sausage and cornbread. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, feel free to use hot Italian sausage instead. This stuffing can even be whipped up in advance and reheated just before serving. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, it tastes just as good the next day.

3) Mashed Potatoes with Bacon and Caramelized Onions

Mashed potatoes on their own can be pretty flavorless. But, not Cookin’ Canuck’s version. The caramelized onions are cooked in fat rendered from the bacon and added to the spuds at the end, along with earthy, fried sage. The result is velvety mashed potatoes that are anything but ordinary.

4) Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce

Gimme Some Oven’s cranberry sauce is easy to make and mouth-watering, so you can stay away from the canned stuff. It’s prepared in a slow cooker so you can set it and forget it. With a few ingredients like fresh cranberries, orange juice and sugar, you’ll have a delicious accompaniment to your turkey that will taste like you spent hours over the stove.

5) Turkey Gravy

Gravy is a Thanksgiving necessity, but getting the taste and consistency just right can be tricky. Life Tastes Good’s recipe is simple and is made while the turkey is resting. It uses the turkey giblets and pan drippings, both of which provide loads of flavor.

Want more side dish ideas?

Visit us in North Andover. We’re always here to answer your questions.

5 Tasty Recipes That Bring the Tailgate to Your Kitchen

The fall season brings so many opportunities to try amazing foods, and one of the places we love digging into dishes most are at tailgate get-togethers. Tailgating is known for its finger-licking, belly-warming, picnic-style foods that leave everyone smiling and asking for more. And, since it’s hard to get to a tailgate party every night, we’ve found five recipes that bring those irresistible foods from the game to your kitchen.

1) BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

pulled-pork-barbeque-sliders — via Bites of Bri

The hardest part about this recipe isn’t making the pulled pork. It’s waiting for it to finish cooking so you can dig in. This slow cooker pulled pork recipe lets you set, forget, and go about your day. By the time dinner comes around, you’ll have tender pulled pork with explosive flavor that’s ready to be served up however you like. This is a great one to turn on early in the morning for those late-afternoon games.

2) Easy Tailgate Party Buffalo Wings

anchor-bar-buffalo-wings — via Anchor Bar

One of the first foods that comes to mind when talking about tailgate favorites is chicken wings. It’s easy to see why, since they’re easy to make and can be paired with almost any kind of sauce. This recipe comes from Anchor Bar in Buffalo, NY, home of the original buffalo wings, so we know this is the way they’re meant to be made. Of course, feel free to swap out the recipe’s sauce for one of your favorites so you can be sure they’re something you’ll love.

3) All-American Sausage and Peppers

All-American, all flavor, no hassle. Taste of Home has put together a simple recipe showing how to whip up some fantastic sausage and pepper sliders in less than an hour. With brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, these bold sliders will be gone in a flash. The good news is that they’re so easy to make, you won’t mind whipping up a new batch.

4) Turkey Chili

Chili has always been a tailgate favorite with its bold mix of ingredients and warm, hearty goodness. There’s no better time of year than fall to try mixing up this classic dish with turkey instead of traditional beef. Country Living has created a recipe that’s as delicious as it is simple to make. With beans, spices, peppers, and our favorite Thanksgiving bird, this turkey chili will be a sensation no matter where you bring it.

5) Prize Winning Baby Back Ribs

Barbecue baby back ribs are one of the ultimate finger-licking foods you can get at the tailgate, and this recipe lets you have all the flavor without all the hassle. Just prep the meat, place it on the grill, and find a way to distract yourself while the ribs cook to perfection. In about an hour, you’ll have some tender, juicy barbecue ribs that beg to be devoured. Just remember to keep the napkins within arm’s reach.

Want more know-how from our butchers?

Visit us in North Andover. We’re always here to answer your questions.

5 Delicious Dinner Ideas to Get You In the Autumn Spirit

Summer is over, and that means that the days will be getting shorter, the breezes will be getting cooler, and the holidays are almost upon us. While we’re sad to see summer go, we’re excited to slip into some warmer clothes and make dinners that are perfect for fall. Here are five savory recipes you can put together to help get you into the spirit of the season.

1) Pumpkin Seed Crusted Rack of Lamb

One part of the pumpkin that’s frequently overlooked are its seeds, but not everyone has forgotten them. Chef Franco Lania has created a stunning recipe that uses the crunchy texture and hint of spice from pumpkin seeds as a delectable, memorable crust on a rack of lamb. Together, this flavor combination is one that is sure to become a favorite for fall and beyond.

2) Autumn Sausage Casserole

This full-flavored dish from Taste of Home combines apples, raisins, sausage and spices for a warm, rich, fall-inspired dinner that everyone is sure to love. From prep time to cook, it’s done in less than an hour, meaning you can quickly get back to carving pumpkins or raking leaves after dinner.

3) Cider-Braised Chicken, Brussels Sprouts, and Apples

It’s hard to imagine fall without apples. From ciders to pies, apples can be used in a variety of ways that help to create a meal perfect for fall. This recipe from Midwest Living takes that apple flavor and brings it center stage in a mouthwatering chicken and brussels sprout dish. Just don’t forget the mashed potatoes on the side.

4) Vegetarian Pumpkin Chili

There’s no question the pumpkin reigns supreme this time of year, so this list wouldn’t be complete without a pumpkin recipe – but would you have guessed it would be for pumpkin chili? This recipe from Shannon at The Glowing Fridge mixes that pumpkin flavor we love with the feel-good warmth of a hearty chili that’s perfect on a cool fall day.

5) Turkey, Brie, and Apple Panini

Of course, what fall recipe list would be complete without mentioning turkey? Try this easy panini recipe from She Wears Many Hats that makes apples, turkey, and brie collide in an explosion of flavor. It’s also a nice way to satisfy your turkey cravings without having to wait for the Thanksgiving leftovers.

Want more know-how from our butchers?

Visit us in North Andover. We’re always here to answer your questions.

Dive Into Dry Rubs

Dry rubs are a simple, delicious way to take any meal to the next level. From sweet and savory to spicy and bold, there are endless ways to mix up a meal and give it a tasty twist without breaking a sweat.

Here are two simple recipes for dry rubs that you can easily put together in time for dinner and will go great on any meat. Just mix the ingredients together in a bag or bowl and rub onto the meat before cooking.

All Purpose Dry Rub Recipe

(Via AllRecipes.com)

4 tablespoons white sugar
4 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon paprika
2 tablespoons mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pinch dried oregano
1 pinch dried thyme

Martha Stewart’s All Purpose Spice Rub

(Via MarthaStewart.com)

1/3 cup coarse salt
1/4 cup packed light-brown sugar
1/4 cup paprika
2 tablespoons ground black pepper
2 tablespoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons dried thyme leaves
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Of course, part of what makes cooking fun and exciting is making things your own – including creating your own signature dry rub. If you’ve got a spice rack, you already have all the ingredients you need to get started. Here are 6 tips to help make sure you’re balancing your favorite spices just right.

1) More salt, less sweet

You want your salt-to-sweet ratio to be heavily balanced towards salt. Salt has a magical ability to bring out the complex flavors of whatever it seasons. Sugars are much less versatile. However, there are a few dishes that taste fantastic with a sweet rub, particularly when you’re cooking with poultry and pork.

2) Pick your pepper

Pepper adds a critical element of heat to your dry rub, but that doesn’t mean you have to reach for the standard black pepper sitting on the dinner table. There are plenty of varieties from which to choose, including white, red, and cayenne. Choose one, or try out a combination of a few.

3) Be creative

This is your chance to add your own flair to a dish. Give your spice rack a spin, and start pulling out flavors you love.

4) …But not that creative

Spices have a tendency to compete against each other. Put too many in the mix, and no one wins. After you’ve added in your salt, sugar, and heat, stick to three or four additional spices. Any more than that, and your dry rub will start to lose any subtlety of flavor.

5) Taste it first

Before you season your whole family’s sirloin with your new creation, taste a small pinch of it. Make sure it’s balanced to your liking. Better to correct any mistakes before you ruin five pounds of perfectly innocent steak.

6) Pay attention to dates

How often do you refresh your spice rack? Chances are, more than a few of the spices in your cupboard are old. While expired spices don’t typically present much risk to your health, they do start to lose potency after a few years. For an intense, flavorful dry rub, make sure you’re using fresh ingredients. Stop by Butcher Boy whenever you need to replenish.

Now, go and create something delicious – and uniquely yours.

Want more know-how from our butchers?

Visit us in North Andover.