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Quick and Easy Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe

May 14, 2023 by Tanya 32 Comments

meatballs in air fryer basket with some parsley on top

These Air Fryer Meatballs are flavorful and perfect for your weeknight meals. Make them fresh or frozen in your Air Fryer in less than 15 minutes. 

meatballs in air fryer basket with some parsley on top

This post may contain affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

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The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Your Own Home Cocktail Bar

May 13, 2023 by Tanya Leave a Comment

photo of bar cart in front of window filled with home bar essentials, like cocktail shakers, liquors, and liquers

If you want to create a home bar, you'll want to ensure you have all the essentials. From the base spirits and liqueurs to the right tools, we'll cover everything you need to set up your home-based bar. This post is meant for an audience 21 and over.

cocktail bar in front of window

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Having a home cocktail bar is a great idea. It's a great conversation starter and allows you to experiment with different recipes. It also helps to save money on expensive bar outings.

Most of all, it is a fun and relaxing way to spend time with friends and family. This comprehensive guide will explore the top home bar essentials you need to set up a fully stocked and functional home bar.

I. Essential Liquor and Mixers

a. Base spirits

A well-stocked home bar starts with a variety of base spirits. These include vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey. These versatile liquors will allow you to create a wide range of cocktails to suit any taste preference.

Investing in high-quality spirits is wise. The quality of ingredients will significantly affect the taste of cocktails. Thus, invest in the best you can afford.

liquors in front of window on bar cart

b. Liqueurs

Liqueurs like triple sec, vermouth, coffee liqueur, and amaretto can add depth and flavor to your concoctions. Keep a few of these on hand to enhance your cocktail creations. Liqueurs are typically sweet and can add complexity and character to your drinks. Experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your favorites.

liquers on bar cart

c. Mixers

Stock up on tonic water, soda water, cola, and ginger beer mixers to complement your spirits and liqueurs. These mixers will provide the perfect canvas for your cocktails, allowing you to play with different ratios and flavors. Consider having a variety of flavored syrups and purees, too, for a more extensive selection of mixers.

Fresh ingredients like lemons, limes, oranges, and mint are crucial for adding a refreshing touch to your drinks. Always keep a few on hand to elevate your cocktails to the next level. You can also purchase citrus juices for cocktails in your grocery store.

Don't forget other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and pineapple, which can also be used to create unique and delicious cocktails.

photo of bitters that are home bar essentials on bar cart

d. Syrups and bitters

E. Syrups and bitters, like simple syrup, grenadine, and Angostura bitters, can balance your drinks' sweetness and complexity. These additions will help you craft perfectly balanced cocktails that impress even the most discerning guests. For a personal touch, experiment with homemade syrups like honey, ginger, or cinnamon syrup.

II. Home Bar Essential Tools

a. Cocktail shaker

A cocktail shaker is a must-have for mixing and chilling your drinks, ensuring a well-blended and refreshing cocktail. There are various types of shakers, such as the Boston shaker, cobbler shaker, and French shaker, each with advantages. Choose one that best suits your needs and comfort.

cocktail shaker and other bar tools on cart

b. Strainer

A strainer is crucial for separating ice and other solid ingredients from your cocktails, providing a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience. There are several types of strainers, like the Hawthorne, julep, and fine mesh strainer. Combining these will ensure you can strain any cocktail with ease.

c. Bar Spoon and Jigger

A bar spoon is perfect for gently stirring cocktails, while a jigger ensures precise measurements for a perfectly balanced drink. Invest in a durable and accurate jigger; consistency is critical when creating cocktails. A double-sided jigger with different measurements on each end will be incredibly useful.

d. Muddler and Juicer

A muddler and citrus juicer are essential for extracting flavors from fresh fruits and herbs, allowing you to create cocktails with depth and freshness. Choose a muddler with a comfortable grip and a flat, sturdy end for effective muddling. A manual citrus juicer will ensure you always have fresh juice on hand for your cocktails.

e. Garnishes

Garnish tools, like a peeler, small knife, and cocktail picks, add the finishing touches to your drinks, enhancing the overall presentation and experience. A set of garnishing tools will allow you to create visually appealing and professional-looking cocktails that will impress your guests.

f. Ice

Lastly, an ice bucket and tongs will help keep your ice clean and easily accessible during cocktail-making sessions. Ice is essential to many cocktails, so having a dedicated place to store it is crucial. Consider investing in an insulated ice bucket to keep your ice from melting quickly.

You can find cocktail shaker sets that contain the majority of these home bar essentials in one kit.

III. Home Bar Essential Glassware

Different glassware, such as highball, Collins, rocks, martini, coupe, wine, and shot glasses, can enhance the presentation of your drinks and improve the overall experience for you and your guests. High-quality glassware is visually appealing and can enhance the flavors and aromas of your cocktails.

glasses and glasware on bar cart for home bar essentials

Highball and Collins glasses are ideal for serving tall, mixed drinks, often with a high proportion of mixers. Rocks glasses, also known as Old Fashioned glasses, are perfect for serving spirits neat or on the rocks and shorter mixed drinks.

Martini and coupe glasses are best suited for serving cocktails, such as martinis and daiquiris, while wine glasses can serve wine-based cocktails like sangria or a spritzer. Shot glasses are perfect for serving straight shots or miniature versions of cocktails.

IV. Recipes and Techniques

Master classic cocktails like the martini, margarita, Old Fashioned, mojito, and Negroni to impress your guests and build your mixology skills. Start with these timeless recipes and then experiment with your variations, incorporating different spirits, liqueurs, and fresh ingredients.

Familiarize yourself with popular techniques such as shaking, stirring, muddling, layering, and straining to create a variety of textures and flavors in your cocktails. Shaking is ideal for drinks with multiple ingredients and citrus as an ingredient while stirring is best for spirit-forward cocktails.

Muddling extracts flavors from fruits and herbs, and layering creates a visually appealing effect in drinks with different densities. Straining ensures a smooth and enjoyable cocktail by removing ice and other solids.

As you become more comfortable with these techniques, explore advanced methods like smoking, infusing, and fat-washing to elevate your cocktails and create truly unique and memorable experiences for your guests.

V. Organizing Your Home Bar

liquors, liquers, and home bar essentials on bar cart in front of window

Consider storage solutions like shelves, cabinets, and bar carts to keep your spirits, tools, and glassware organized and accessible. This will make it easy for you to find everything you need when creating cocktails and help maintain the cleanliness of your home bar area.

Creative displays and lighting can showcase your collection and set the mood for your home bar. Use LED strip lights, under-cabinet lighting, or a backlit liquor shelf to highlight your spirits and glassware, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Space-saving tips, such as using stackable glassware and multipurpose tools, can help you make the most of your home bar, regardless of size. Opt for nesting bar tools and collapsible or wall-mounted storage solutions to maximize your available space.

VII. Things to Consider

a. Space

Another home bar essential is space. Consider how much room you have to store all your ingredients and tools for your home bar. I suggest choosing 2-3 base spirits and 1-2 liqueurs you like the most. Regarding glassware, start with highballs (which can also be used for non-alcoholic drinks, like lemonade), a coupe, and rock glasses. I suggest buying only 2-4 of each glass.

b. Budget

Establish a budget for your home bar essentials. This will help you prioritize items to invest in, such as spirits, tools, and glassware. Remember that you can start small and gradually build your collection over time.

c. Storage and organization

Plan for adequate storage space to keep your spirits, mixers, tools, and glassware organized and easily accessible. This may include shelves, cabinets, bar carts, or other storage solutions. Good organization will not only make your bar more functional but also more visually appealing.

Conclusion

As you explore the world of mixology, these home bar essentials will have you mixing up creative cocktails in no time. Don't be afraid to try new ingredients and techniques. The best part of having a home bar is the endless opportunity for creativity and enjoyment. Stick with the classic cocktails or come up with your creations.

Learn from experienced bartenders. Attend mixology workshops. Discover new recipes and ideas through books and online resources. Take the time to explore these options.

The more you experiment and refine your techniques, the better your cocktails will become.

Hennessy Sidecar Recipe

May 4, 2023 by Tanya 2 Comments

coupe glass filled with Hennessy sidecar cocktail and garnished with a strip of orange peel

A classic sidecar cocktail is a joy to drink. I make my Hennessy Sidecar Recipe using a good quality Hennessy cognac and mix it with Cointreau and fresh lemon juice. The result is a rich, sweet, slightly tart cocktail with your taste buds dancing. This post is meant for an audience 21 and over.

coupe glass filled with Hennessy sidecar cocktail and garnished with a strip of orange peel

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

Cognac is a style of brandy that is produced in the Cognac region of France. Hennessy produce some of the best cognacs, which work beautifully in a classic sidecar cocktail.

I first enjoyed this cocktail at a bar in Washington D.C., but I'm a huge fan of making cocktails at home, so I had to learn how to make it.

This Hennessy sidecar cocktail recipe is the perfect example of cocktail simplicity. Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker over ice, give it a shake, and strain into your glass of choice. In a matter of minutes, you have the perfect cocktail serving for one.

However with this easy sidecar cocktail recipe feel free to double up the recipe, or even make it in a pitcher if you are serving a larger crowd of friends.

If you enjoy a cocktail when the sun is out, try my Peach Cobbler Cocktail, Bourbon Martini, Classic Margarita, Paloma Cocktail, Jamaican Rum Punch, Fruity Martini, or Jamaican Guinness Punch recipes.

Sidecar Cocktail Ingredients

Here's what you will need to make a Classic Hennessy Sidecar cocktail:

  • Brandy - when it comes to making the best Sidecar Cocktail, I use Hennessy Cognac or a similar high-quality cognac.
  • Orange Liqueur - I use Cointreau, but you can also use Grand Marnier or any other orange liqueur.
  • Lemon - we use fresh lemon juice, but you can use lemon juice concentrate.
  • Ice - you will need ice for shaking the cocktails in the cocktail shaker.
  • Sugar - you can sugarcoat the rim of the glass; this is optional.
  • Garnish - use an orange or lemon twist for garnish; this is optional.
Hennessy sidecar cocktail ingredients

How to make my Hennessy Sidecar Recipe

Optional: Prepare your coupe or martini glass by moistening the rim with a lemon wedge and then dipping it into a shallow plate of sugar to create a sugar rim.

Combine the Hennessy cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice in a cocktail shaker.

Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to ensure the ingredients are well chilled and mixed.

Strain the cocktail into a prepared coupe or martini glass.

coupe glass filled with Hennessy sidecar cocktail being poured from a cocktail shaker and garnished with a strip of orange peel
  • Garnish with a twist of orange or lemon, if desired.
whole orange on a green board with an orange peeling and some strips of orange peel

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best Sidecar recipe you've ever tried. 

  • If you don't have a shaker, you can simply combine all of the ingredients in a glass filled with ice and stir until well combined.
  • This cocktail is best served immediately, but it can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add the ice and stir well.
  • Don't add the ice cubes until you are ready to serve; otherwise, you risk them melting and diluting the cocktail.
  • Serving more people, no problem. Increase the recipe and prepare in a large jug rather than a cocktail shaker.
two coupe glasses filled with Hennessy sidecar cocktail with bottle of Hennessy brandy in the background

Flavor variations

  • The ratio of ingredients in a Sidecar can vary depending on personal preference, but a common recipe is 2 parts cognac, 1 part orange liqueur, and 1 part lemon juice. The cocktail is traditionally served in a sugar-rimmed glass and garnished with a twist of lemon.
  • Make a Between the Sheets Cocktail by subbing 1 part of the cognac with rum.
  • For the orange liqueur, I use Cointreau, but you can use Grand Marnier or any other orange liqueur.
  • In this recipe, we use fresh lemon juice, but feel free to use lemon juice concentrate. If using lemon juice concentrate, increase to 1 ounce. 
  • Add Tequila and lime juice, and make a Hennessy Margarita.
two coupe glasses filled with Hennessy sidecar cocktail

FAQs

What does a sidecar cocktail taste like?

This cocktail has a good kick of cognac, with the orange liqueur adding both sweet and bitter notes, then the lemon juice adds just the right amount of tartness to balance the cocktail. If you prefer a little sweeter cocktail, add a little more orange liqueur.

Is triple sec the same as Cointreau?

Cointreau is a triple sec. It is a good quality orange liqueur with a great orange flavor. Triple secs vary in quality and strength. Cointreau has a lovely smooth flavor of sweet oranges, which works flawlessly in this sidecar cocktail recipe.

If you have tried this Hennessy Sidecar recipe or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

coupe glass filled with Hennessy sidecar cocktail and garnished with a strip of orange peel
Print Recipe
5 from 3 votes

Hennessy Sidecar Recipe

A classic sidecar cocktail is a joy to drink. I make my Hennessy Sidecar Recipe using a good quality Hennessy cognac, and mix it with Cointreau and fresh lemon juice. The result is a rich, sweet, and slightly tart cocktail that will have your taste buds dancing.
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Total Time5 minutes mins
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: brandy cocktail, hennessy brandy, hennessy sidecar, sidecar cocktail
Servings: 1
Calories: 222kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Hennessy Cognac or other high quality cognac
  • 1 oz orange liqueur such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier
  • ½ oz fresh lemon juice
  • ice for shaking cocktails
  • sugar for coating rim of glass, optional
  • orange or lemon twist for garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Optional: Prepare your coupe or martini glass by moistening the rim with a lemon wedge and then dipping it into a shallow plate of sugar to create a sugar rim.
  • In a cocktail shaker, combine the Hennessy cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.
  • Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to ensure the ingredients are well chilled and mixed.
  • Strain the cocktail into a prepared coupe or martini glass.
  • Garnish with a twist of orange or lemon, if desired.

Notes

  • The ratio of ingredients in a Sidecar can vary depending on personal preference, but a common recipe is 2 parts cognac, 1 part orange liqueur, and 1 part lemon juice. The cocktail is traditionally served in a sugar-rimmed glass and garnished with a twist of lemon.
  • We us fresh lemon juice in this recipe, but feel free to use lemon juice concentrate. If using lemon juice concentrate, increase to 1 ounce.

Nutrition

Calories: 222kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 29mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Mackerel Rundown

May 4, 2023 by Tanya Leave a Comment

Jamaican Mackerel Rundown is a traditional, flavorful dish that combines tender mackerel with a rich and savory coconut milk sauce. Its unique blend of spices and ingredients creates an authentic taste of the Caribbean right in your own kitchen.

mackerel rundown cooked nown in sauce in skillet

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

Jamaican Mackerel Run Down is a traditional, flavorful dish that combines tender mackerel with a rich and savory coconut milk sauce. Its unique blend of spices and ingredients creates an authentic taste of the Caribbean right in your own kitchen.

Growing up in a Jamaican household has its perks, mainly all the delicious recipes I was able to enjoy. These included ackee and saltfish, brown stew chicken, oxtail, and mackerel run-down. This dish was for sure a favorite, as the coconut sauce pairs well with the fish in this dish.

Mackerel run down is complemented by side dishes such as boiled green bananas, dumplings, and white rice. It is also great served over a bed of steamed vegetables such as kale, carrots, and cabbage. This flavorful and comforting dish is sure to be a hit in any Jamaican home.

Traditionally, mackerel run down is made with salted or pickled mackerel. This mackerel must be prepped before adding it to a rich coconut sauce. I've modified the recipe using fresh mackerel and canned coconut milk rather than fresh coconut. This recipe is still delicious either way.

Ingredients for Mackerel Run Down:

  • Fish - Salted or pickled mackerel is more traditional, so if you can find it, use it by all means. I've used fresh mackerel in this recipe. You could also use herring or sardines in place of mackerel. I also use lime to clean the fish to get rid of any excessive fishy smell or taste.
  • Coconut Sauce - olive oil, yellow and green onion, garlic, tomato, unsweetened coconut milk, garlic, thyme, all-purpose seasoning, salt, and pepper.
ingredients for mackerel rundown recipe

How to Make Mackerel Run Down

Chop all the vegetables and set them to the side.

Rinse mackerel in cold water and squeeze lime to wash the mackerel fish while rinsing.  Debone the mackerel and chop the mackerel into bite-sized pieces.

deboned and chopped fish for rundown

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped yellow onion, green onion, garlic, tomato, and sauté for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.

Add the mackerel, coconut milk, pimento seeds, thyme, and all-purpose seasoning. Stir and mix to combine. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes.  Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste.

coconut sauce ingredients in skillet before dish added
mackerel rundown sauce cooked

Remove from heat and remove the pimento seeds and thyme leaves before serving.

mackerel run down on plate with green banana and dumpling

What to Serve with Mackerel Rundown

Mackerel Run down pairs well with plantains, boiled, green bananas, or fried dumplings. You can also serve it with a fresh salad on the side or steamed vegetables.

How to make Rundown with Salted Fish

In order to make mackerel run down with salted fish, you will need to prep the fish before adding it to the coconut sauce. Follow these steps:

  1. Rinse mackerel in cold water twice to wash off the salt. Squeeze lime to wash the mackerel fish while rinsing.  
  2. Boil the mackerel for about 5-10 minutes in a pot filled with water. Remove the mackerel from the stove and drain the water.
  3. Allow the mackerel to cool. Debone it and tear it off into smaller pieces. Set aside.
  4. Proceed with making the coconut sauce in the recipe before adding the mackerel.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Sure! You can add a sliced scotch bonnet pepper, seeds removed, or a whole scotch bonnet pepper while the coconut sauce simmers.

Frequent Asked Questions

What does rundown mean?

The term "rundown" describes the process of cooking the sauce until it reduces, thickens, and "runs down" or breaks down to a rich and flavorful consistency.

When is mackerel rundown typically served?

We usually ate rundown for breakfast, but it can be eaten for lunch or dinner.

Looking for more Jamaican recipes? Try these out:

  • Callaloo and Saltfish
  • Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage
  • Brown Stew Fish
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Mackerel Rundown

Jamaican Mackerel Rundown is a traditional, flavorful dish that combines tender mackerel with a rich and savory coconut milk sauce. Its unique blend of spices and ingredients creates an authentic taste of the Caribbean right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time15 minutes mins
Total Time25 minutes mins
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Caribbean
Keyword: caribbean mackerel run down, Jamaican mackerel run down, mackerel run down, mackerel rundown
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 328kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Mackerel fileted (see note for using salted mackerel)
  • 2 Tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 5 stalks of green onions chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic chopped
  • 1 tomato chopped
  • 1 13.5 oz can of unsweetened coconut milk
  • 6 pimento seeds
  • 4 sprigs thyme
  • 2 teaspoons of all-purpose seasoning
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Rinse mackerel in cold water and squeeze lime to wash the mackerel fish while rinsing. Debone the mackerel and chop the mackerel into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add yellow onion, green onion, garlic, tomato, and sauté for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.
  • Then add the mackerel, coconut milk, pimento seeds, thyme, and all-purpose seasoning. Stir and mix to combine. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove from heat and remove the pimento seeds and thyme leaves before serving.

Notes

In order to make mackerel run down with salted fish, you will need to prep the fish before adding it to the coconut sauce. Follow these steps:
  1. Rinse mackerel in cold water twice to wash off the salt. Squeeze lime to wash the mackerel fish while rinsing.
  2. Boil the mackerel for about 5-10 minutes in a pot filled with water. Remove the mackerel from the stove and drain the water.
  3. Allow the mackerel to cool. Debone it and tear it off into smaller pieces. Set aside.
  4. Proceed with making the coconut sauce in the recipe before adding the mackerel.

Nutrition

Calories: 328kcal

Classic Margarita Recipe

May 2, 2023 by Tanya 2 Comments

salt rimed glass garnished with a slice of fresh lime filled with classic margarita cocktail

This Classic Margarita Recipe is one of my favorite tequila cocktail recipes, combining Blanco tequila with Cointreau, lime juice and a little sugar syrup, for a drink that really packs a punch. This post is meant for an audience 21 and over.

salt rimed glass garnished with a slice of fresh lime filled with classic margarita cocktail

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

If you are looking for the Best Margarita Recipe, it should have a balance of flavors, sweet, sour, salty and bitter. That's why I always like to put a salt rim on my glass, as it balances out the other strong flavors in the cocktail itself.

I make my classic margarita recipe with Cointreau as it has a lovely depth of orange flavor. However, feel free to swap Cointreau for triple sec, or any other orange flavored liqueur.

This simple margarita recipe is easy to prepare, in just 5 minutes you have the perfect cocktail serving for one. However, feel free to double up the recipe, or even make it in a pitcher if you are serving a larger crowd of friends.

If you enjoy a cocktail when the sun is out, try my Strawberry Margarita, Paloma Cocktail, Jamaican Rum Punch, Fruity Martini, or Jamaican Guinness Punch recipes.

Classic Margarita Recipe Ingredients

Here's what you will need to make a Classic Margarita cocktail:

  • Tequila - when it comes to making the best Margarita Cocktail, I use Blanco tequila.
  • Lime - use fresh lime juice for the best flavor, although bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. You will also need lime juice for decorating the rim of the glass with salt, and fresh lime wedges for garnish.
  • Orange Liqueur - I use Cointreau, but you can also use Triple Sec, or any other orange liqueur.
  • Simple Syrup - make your own Simple Syrup using my quick and easy recipe. Alternatively, you can buy bottled sugar syrups in your local store.
  • Salt - no margarita cocktail is complete without a salt rimmed glass; I use course kosher or course sea salt.
classic margarita recipe ingredients

How to make a Classic Margarita Cocktail

Begin by preparing your glass. Dip the rim of a chilled glass into the small shallow dish with lime juice, making sure to coat the entire rim.

the rim of a glass being dipped into a shallow black dish filled with lime juice

Next, dip the rim of the glass into the dish with coarse salt, rolling the glass to ensure an even coating of salt on the rim.

the rim of a glass being dipped into a shallow black dish of coarse salt
a hand holding a glass with a salt crusted rim

In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice.

Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds, until well combined and chilled.

cocktail shaker being shaken

Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass.

2 salt rimmed glasses, garnished with a slice of fresh lime being filled with classic margarita from a cocktail shaker

Garnish with a lime wedge, and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best Classic Margarita recipe you've ever tried. 

  • If you don't have a shaker, you can simply combine all of the ingredients in a glass filled with ice and stir until well combined.
  • This cocktail is best served immediately, but it can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add the ice and stir well.
  • Don't add the ice cubes until you are ready to serve, otherwise, you risk them melting and diluting the cocktail.
  • Serving more people, no problem, just increase the recipe and prepare in a large jug rather than a cocktail shaker.
2 salt rimed glasses garnished with a slice of fresh lime filled with classic margarita cocktail with a cocktail shaker set alongside

Flavor variations

  • The type of tequila you use can significantly affect the flavor of your margarita. Blanco or silver tequila is typically used for a classic margarita, as it has a clean, crisp taste that pairs well with the other ingredients.
  • For a slightly sweeter margarita, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup to your liking, or use agave nectar instead. However, be careful not to overdo it, as too much sweetness can overpower the other flavors in the drink.
  • For the orange liqueur, I use Cointreau, but you can also make a classic margarita recipe with triple sec, or any other orange-flavored liqueur.
  • Add flavors, like tamarind, for a tamarind margarita.
close up image of a salt rimed glass garnished with a slice of fresh lime filled with classic margarita cocktail

FAQs

Is triple sec or Cointreau better for margaritas?

Cointreau is a triple sec, it is a good quality orange liqueur with a great orange flavor. Triple sec's vary in quality and strength. Cointreau has a lovely smooth flavor of sweet oranges which I think works perfectly in a margarita.

Why do you put a salt rim around a margarita glass?

Aside from decorating the glass, the salt balances out the sweetness from the Cointreau, bitterness from the tequila, and sourness from the lime juice.

How do you get salt to stick to the rim of a margarita glass?

The glass is first dipped in lime juice, which helps the coarse salt stick to the rim of the glass.

If you have tried this Classic Margarita recipe or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

salt rimed glass garnished with a slice of fresh lime filled with classic margarita cocktail
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Classic Margarita Recipe

This Classic Margarita Recipe is one of my favorite tequila cocktails and combines Blanco tequila with Cointreau, lime juice and a little sugar syrup, for a drink that really packs a punch.
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Total Time5 minutes mins
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: classic margarita cocktail, classic margarita recipe with cointreau, simple margarita recipe
Servings: 1
Calories: 244kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Blanco tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz Cointreau or any other orange liqueur
  • 1 teaspoon simple syrup
  • lime juice in a small shallow dish
  • course salt in another small shallow dish

Instructions

  • Begin by preparing your glass. Dip the rim of a chilled glass into the small shallow dish with lime juice, making sure to coat the entire rim.
  • Next, dip the rim of the glass into the dish with coarse salt, rolling the glass to ensure an even coating of salt on the rim.
  • In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice.
  • Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds, until well combined and chilled.
  • Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass.
  • Garnish with a lime wedge, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • The type of tequila you use can greatly affect the flavor of your margarita. Blanco or silver tequila is typically used for a classic margarita, as it has a clean, crisp taste that pairs well with the other ingredients.
 
  • For a slightly sweeter margarita, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup to your liking, or use agave nectar instead. However, be careful not to overdo it, as too much sweetness can overpower the other flavors in the drink.

Nutrition

Calories: 244kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 47mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.3mg

Blue Cheese Dressing

April 28, 2023 by Tanya Leave a Comment

glass jar filled with blue cheese dressing set on a white linen napkin

My quick and easy recipe for Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing tastes terrific and adds a real punch of flavor to anything you add it to. Used as a salad dressing, it transforms a simple bowl of romaine lettuce but works just as well as a dipping sauce for your favorite chicken wings recipe.

glass jar filled with blue cheese dressing set on a white linen napkin

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

This classic blue cheese dressing will taste far superior to anything you buy in your local store. This dressing is bursting full of fresh-tasting flavors. Also, with a homemade salad dressing, you won't find any unnecessary added sugars, additives, or preservatives.

I like to fall back on this easy dressing recipe when I'm pushed for time. I can have the dressing blended together in 5 minutes with a few simple ingredients. Then all it needs is a quick chill in the refrigerator.

Dressings and sauces are a great way of adding extra layers of flavor to a dish. If you enjoy making sauces, try my Sweet Onion Dressing, Tartar Sauce, or Homemade Remoulade Sauce.

Ingredients

  • Mayonnaise - Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise.
  • Buttermilk - Adds a touch of acidity to the dressing.
  • Blue cheese - Crumbled blue cheese flavors the sauce. I like to go for a crumbly blue cheese, but you can also use a creamier blue cheese if you prefer.
  • Worcestershire sauce -  Worcestershire sauce gives the sauce an umami flavor.
  • Seasoning - Onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
wooden board topped with blue cheese dressing recipe ingredients

How to make blue cheese dressing

In a small blender, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, crumbled blue cheese (reserving some for garnish, if desired), Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder.

top down image of a jar of blue cheese dressing set on a wooden board

Blend the ingredients on a low setting until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, blending again briefly to incorporate.

Transfer the dressing to a serving container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Stir the dressing before serving, and garnish with reserved crumbled blue cheese (if desired).

How to make blue cheese dressing without a blender

You can also mix this dressing together by hand:

  • Whisk the mayonnaise, buttermilk, and seasonings together until combined.
  • Mix in the blue cheese crumbles, breaking up large lumps as you stir.

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best blue cheese dressing you've ever tasted:

  • Always check the dressing for seasoning before serving, and adjust as required.
  • Before serving, give the dressing a quick stir to recombine any separated ingredients.
  • If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of milk or water.

Variations

  • If you don't have buttermilk, sour cream would be a great substitution.
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a lovely touch of acidity to the dressing.
  • Add some fresh herbs like parsley or chives. 
a white plate of romaine lettuce drizzled with blue cheese dressing, set on a wooden board with a jar of blue cheese dressing set alongside

What is Blue Cheese Dressing used for

This versatile dressing is great with salads, as a dip, or as a topping. Drizzle some dressing over romaine lettuce, and you have the base for a delicious green salad.

It works as a treat as a dipping sauce for your favorite wings recipe. Try my Jerk Chicken Wings or Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings, or my Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings.

How to store

To refrigerate: Once made, the dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To freeze: I don't recommend freezing this as the consistency is never quite the same once the dressing has been frozen. It only takes 5 minutes to prepare and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, so I prefer to make it fresh when I need it.

FAQs:

Is blue cheese dressing healthy?

Blue cheese dressing is a great source of calcium, and a homemade dressing is a great healthy option as there are no added sugars, additives, or preservatives that you will find in store-bought sauces.

Is blue cheese dressing the same as ranch dressing?

No, whilst they are both creamy dressings made with a base of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and/or sour cream, the flavors differ. A ranch dressing has added herbs and spices, whereas, in a blue cheese dressing, the predominant flavor is blue cheese.

Is blue cheese dressing the same as blue cheese dip?

While they have the same ingredients, blue cheese dressing has a looser texture than blue cheese dip, which is a little thicker. This is easily done by adding a little more mayonnaise and cutting back on or swapping the buttermilk for sour cream.

If you have tried making this recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

glass jar filled with blue cheese dressing set on a white linen napkin
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Blue Cheese Dressing

Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing tastes amazing and adds a real punch of flavor to anything you add it to. Used as a salad dressing it transforms a simple bowl of romaine lettuce, but works just as well as a dipping sauce for your favorite chicken wings recipe.
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Chill time30 minutes mins
Total Time35 minutes mins
Course: Condiment, Dip, Sauce
Cuisine: American
Keyword: blue cheese dressing, blue cheese salad dressing, blue cheese sauce
Servings: 8
Calories: 134kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 6 tablespoon buttermilk
  • ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a small blender, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, crumbled blue cheese (reserving some for garnish, if desired), Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder.
  • Blend the ingredients on a low setting until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, blending again briefly to incorporate.
  • Transfer the dressing to a serving container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Stir the dressing before serving, garnish with reserved crumbled blue cheese (if desired), and enjoy on salads, as a dip, or as a topping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

You can also mix this dressing together by hand:
  • Whisk the mayonnaise, buttermilk, and seasonings together until combined.
  • Add the blue cheese crumbles and mix them together, breaking up any large lumps as you stir.
 
Before serving, give the dressing a quick stir to recombine any separated ingredients.
If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of milk or water.

Nutrition

Calories: 134kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 217mg | Potassium: 53mg | Fiber: 0.02g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 93IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 61mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Jamaican Coleslaw

April 27, 2023 by Tanya 9 Comments

A bowl of Jamaican coleslaw with serving spoons.

My love for Jamaican cooking and Caribbean cuisine runs deep, inspiring this fresh Jamaican coleslaw salad! A creamy and crunchy combination of sweet, tangy, and spice.

A bowl of Jamaican coleslaw with serving spoons.

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

A take on fresh coleslaw, Jamaican style! Hints of delicious jerk spice you love in Jamaican food. Jamaican coleslaw is a simple recipe that's easy to make and can be served with a variety of different main dishes, including meat, fish, and vegetable-based dishes.

Some of my favorite dishes to pair with our Jamaican coleslaw are my Jamaican Oxtails, Baked Jamaican Jerk Shrimp, or this Jamaican Escovitch Fish.

A bowl of Jamaican coleslaw with serving spoons.

Jamaican Slaw Ingredients

  • Green cabbage - Shred yourself, or buy pre-shredded cabbage.
  • Carrot - I'd shred large carrots yourself; pre-shredded carrots tend to be too thick.
  • Scotch bonnet pepper - If you’re not a fan of spice, leave the scotch bonnet pepper out. If you can't find scotch bonnet pepper, habanero or jalapeno peppers are a good substitute for them in this recipe.
  • Mayonnaise - Use your favorite brand of mayo here.
  • White vinegar - Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar will both work if you don't have any white vinegar.
  • Lime juice - Fresh lime juice or bottled will work.
  • Brown sugar - Light brown sugar, packed.
  • Spices - Ground ginger, ground allspice, and ground nutmeg will all be required. All can be found in the spice aisle. Try this homemade Allspice Substitute if you don't have a jar.
  • Salt - Add salt to taste
jamaican coleslaw ingredients.

Tools needed for this recipe

  • Food processor – Makes quick work of shredding vegetables. If you don’t have a food processor, a sharp knife and a cutting board, or cheese/vegetable grater will be necessary for breaking down the veggies.
  • Mixing bowl

How To Make Jamaican Coleslaw

After shredding, combine the cabbage, carrots, and scotch bonnet pepper. Set them aside.

cabbage, carrots and pepper shredded in a food processor.

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, ground ginger, ground allspice, and ground nutmeg.

Dressing mixed together in a large bowl.

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.

Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for an hour before serving.

Jamaican coleslaw all mixed together with the dressing.

How to Store Jamaican Coleslaw

Keep your coleslaw stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

While you can serve our coleslaw right away, making this the day before and storing it in the fridge will allow the flavors to meld together.

How far ahead of time can I prep coleslaw? Shred your cabbage and carrots for at most, three days before mixing your coleslaw mixture. Keep them in a storage bag or container in the fridge until you’re ready to use them.

Jamaican Coleslaw Salad Variations

Less cream, more tang! - Swap out all or half of the mayonnaise for Dijon mustard.

More sweetness - Cut the spice with sweet bits of pineapple, mango, or sweet peas.

Jamaican coleslaw all mixed together with the dressing.

Jamaican Slaw Serving Suggetions

Coleslaw is a great side dish for Sunday dinners around the BBQ. Creamy coleslaw salad can be served next to, on top of, or as part of many dishes. Especially when you're grilling, coleslaw provides that crunch, zest, and creamy component some meals need. Serve our Jamaican coleslaw salad with any of these dishes:

  • BBQ Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
  • Braised Short Ribs
  • Jamaican Oxtails Recipe
  • Shredded Italian Beef Sandwiches

Jamaican Style Slaw FAQ's

What is the best tool for shredding cabbage and carrots?

Any of these tools will shred cabbage; each might offer a different texture, however:
-Mandolin
-Food processor
-Manual press chopper
-Box shredder
Whichever tool your use, take care to use it safely to avoid any unnecessary cuts.

What cabbage is best for coleslaw?

Green, red, napa, or savoy cabbage are all great options for coleslaw. Using red cabbage may result in some color bleeding into the dressing, but is great for added color contrast. Purely preference or what you have access to with do.

Notes

  • Use a food processor for easy shredding of the vegetables. 
  • If you’re not a fan of spice, leave the scotch bonnet pepper out. If you can't find scotch bonnet pepper, habanero, or jalapeno peppers are a good substitute for them in this recipe.
  • Use this homemade Allspice Substitute if you don't have any available.

Looking for more amazing recipes? Try out these tasty Jamaican recipes:

  • Jamaican Curry Chicken
  • Jamaican Rice and Peas
  • Baked Jamaican Jerk Shrimp
  • Jamaican Cabbage
  • The Most Popular Jamaican Herbs and Spices and How to Use Them

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

A bowl of Jamaican coleslaw with serving spoons.
Print Recipe
4.75 from 8 votes

Jamaican Coleslaw

My love for Jamaican cooking and caribbean cuisine runs deep, inspiring this fresh Jamaican coleslaw salad. A creamy and crunchy combination of sweet, tangy, and spice.
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Resting1 hour hr
Total Time1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Jamaican
Keyword: Jamaican Coleslaw
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 178kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • ½ head Medium cabbage shredded, about 4 cups
  • 2 Carrots shredded
  • ½ Scotch bonnet pepper seeds removed and shredded
  • ¾ cup Mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup White vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons Brown sugar packed
  • ½ teaspoon Ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground nutmeg
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, and scotch bonnet pepper. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, ground ginger, ground allspice, and ground nutmeg.
  • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
  • Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for an hour before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Use a food processor for easy shredding of the vegetables. 
  • If you’re not a fan of spice, leave the scotch bonnet pepper out. If you can't find scotch bonnet pepper, habanero or jalapeno peppers are a good substitute for them in this recipe.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 178kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 159mg | Potassium: 163mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 2625IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Jamaican Boiled Dumplings

April 26, 2023 by Tanya 1 Comment

cooked jamaican dumpling on blue plate

A true staple in Jamaican cuisine, these soft, doughy Jamaican boiled dumplings are made from a simple mixture of flour, water, and a pinch of salt, then lovingly boiled to perfection. The result is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite Jamaican recipes.

cooked jamaican dumpling on blue plate

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Dumplings, also known as "dumplin", are popular in the Caribbean and go with many delicious recipes, like ackee and saltfish, mackerel run down, and corned beef and cabbage. I have fond recipes of my grandmother making dumplings for dinner, rolling the dough in between her hands and flattening them with her palm. She made it look so easy, and I was glad to learn her process for delicious dumplings. 

Jamaican-style dumplings are different than American or Asian dumplings. Using just flour, salt, and water, you can make a simple dough by mixing, rolling, and flattening it before adding it to boiling water to cook. Typically, people boil dumplings with green bananas and serve them as a side dish for various recipes.

If you like these boiled dumplings, be sure to check out these fried dumplings as well. 

Ingredients for Jamaican Dumplings

All you need for this recipe is all-purpose flour, salt, and water. 

ingredients for boiled dumplings on wooden backboard

Tools needed:

A large bowl

Clean, dry hands for mixing the dough

How to make Jamaican Dumplings

In a large pot, bring water and salt to a boil to boil the dumplings.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring to distribute the salt evenly throughout the flour.

Gradually add water to the flour mixture, mixing with your hands until a dough forms.

dough ball for dumplings

Divide the dough into equal-sized pieces, rolling each into a smooth ball. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to form a round, circular dumpling. It should look like a thick disk.

hand holding flattened dumpling

Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water, one at a time, ensuring that they don't stick together. You can use a wooden spoon to stir the dumplings in the water. 

Boil the dumplings for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

boiled dumplings in water

Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked dumplings from the pot, allowing any excess water to drain.

boiled dumplings with 1 dumpling cut in half

Serve with your favorite recipes. 

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: To store leftover Jamaican dumplings in the refrigerator, first, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Then, place the cooled dumplings in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked dumplings. Begin by laying the cooled dumplings on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch each other, and freeze them for a couple of hours or until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dumplings to a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container, remove as much air as possible before sealing, and store them in the freezer for 2-3 months.

To reheat, place the frozen dumplings in boiling water and boil for 10-15 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through. 

Servings Suggestions

These dumplings are a great side dish in many recipes. Try them with callaloo and saltfish, mackerel rundown, air-fried plantains, curry chicken, or steamed fish.

Expert Tips

  • Add the water slowly when adding to make the dough. You may find that you need a little less or more water. Add more flour if your dough is too sticky and sticking to your fingers.
  • When mixing the dough, use cold water to help create a firmer and smoother consistency. Start by adding a small amount and gradually add more until the dough comes together.
  • Some people add cornmeal to their dumplings. To do so, substitute ¼ cup of the all-purpose flour for cornmeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Jamaican dumplings made of?

Jamaican dumplings are made of a simple mixture of all-purpose flour, salt, and water. The ingredients are combined to form a slightly sticky dough, which is then shaped into small, round dumplings before being boiled. The basic recipe can be easily customized by using different types of flour, like whole wheat flour. 

How do you know when the dumplings are cooked through?

The dumplings will rise to the surface of the boiling water, signaling that they are almost done. Their texture will change, becoming slightly firmer and less doughy. Pierce one with a fork or knife to check its doneness. If the utensil goes through easily and the dumpling looks cooked inside, they are ready to be served.

Can you make Jamaican boiled dumplings with self-rising flour?

Yes, you can use self-rising flour to make Jamaican boiled dumplings, resulting in slightly lighter and fluffier dumplings. Omit additional salt, as self-raising flour typically contains salt. Follow the same recipe, adjusting the water as needed for the desired dough consistency.

cooked jamaican dumpling on blue plate
Print Recipe
4.25 from 4 votes

Jamaican Boiled Dumplings

A true staple in Jamaican cuisine, these soft, doughy Jamaican boiled dumplings are made from a simple mixture of flour, water, and a pinch of salt, then lovingly boiled to perfection. The result is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite Jamaican recipes.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time15 minutes mins
Total Time25 minutes mins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Caribbean
Keyword: boiled dumplings, jamaican boiled dumplings
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 228kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

For Boiling

  • 8 cups water
  • ½ Tablespoon salt

For Dumplings

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup cold water

Instructions

  • In a large pot, bring water and salt to a boil to boil the dumplings.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring to distribute the salt evenly throughout the flour. Gradually add water to the flour mixture, mixing with your hands until a dough forms.
  • Divide the dough into equal-sized pieces, rolling each into a smooth ball. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to form a round, circular dumpling. It should look like a thick disk.
  • Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water, one at a time, ensuring that they don't stick together. You can use a wooden spoon to stir the dumplings in the water.
  • Boil the dumplings for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have risen to the surface of the water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked dumplings from the pot, allowing any excess water to drain.
  • Serve with your favorite recipes.

Nutrition

Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 1480mg | Potassium: 67mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.2g | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 3mg

Allspice Substitute

April 25, 2023 by Tanya Leave a Comment

spice ingredients mixed together in a mortar bowl with a measuring spoon.

If you don't have allspice or can't find it in your local grocery store, in a couple of minutes you can create a homemade allspice substitute using common spices you may already have in your pantry. 

spice ingredients mixed together in a mortar bowl with a measuring spoon.

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

Allspice is a versatile spice that can be used in both sweet and savory recipes, and it adds a warm spice flavor to a variety of dishes. Commonly used to flavor meat dishes, particularly beef, lamb, and pork.

Allspice is a key ingredient in jerk seasoning, which is a spicy flavor used particularly in Caribbean cuisine like my Jamaican Jerk Chicken, Jamaican Jerk Pork, and Jamaican Jerk Chicken Soup.

spice ingredients mixed together in a mortar bowl.

Ingredients

When you can't find ground allspice, this combination of other spices creates that distinct spice allspice gives.

  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground cloves
  • Ground nutmeg
ground cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg in spice containers.

Tools needed for this recipe

  • Measuring spoon
  • Airtight container

How To Make The Best Allspice Substitute

In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg and stir until they are well combined.

Then store the allspice substitute in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

spice ingredients mixed together in a mortar bowl.

How to store your allspice substitute

Storing homemade spices properly is important to maintain their flavor and freshness. Here are some tips on how to store your allspice substitute and other homemade ground spices:

  • Store spices in airtight containers: Airtight containers, such as glass jars with tight-fitting lids or plastic containers with snap-on lids, will help prevent moisture and air from getting in and degrading the spices.
  • Store spices in a cool, dry place: Spices should be stored away from heat, light, and humidity. A cool, dry pantry or cupboard is an ideal place to store spices.
  • Label the containers: Be sure to label the containers with the name of the spice and the date it was made. This will help you keep track of how long the spice has been stored and when it should be used.

What is Allspice?

It's a pretty unique and delicious spice that comes from the dried berries of a tree that grows in the Caribbean and Central America. Even though it's called "allspice" it's not a mix of 'all spices'. Surprisingly, It's just one spice with a flavor that kind of tastes like a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Find allspice in the form of whole berries or ground into a powder. People in the Caribbean, Middle East, and North Africa use allspice a lot in their cooking. And, fun fact, some people even use allspice to help with digestion and pain relief.

spice ingredients mixed together in a mortar bowl.

Other Quick Allspice Substitutes

Substitute allspice with any of these warm spices and a peppery kick.

  • Pumpkin Pie Spice + Black pepper
  • Apple Pie Spice + Ground black pepper.
  • Five spice powder or Chinese five spice
  • Cinnamon + Ground black pepper
  • Whole allspice berries - Use a coffee grinder, spice grinder, or mortar & pestle to grind the allspice berries down.

FAQ's

What does allspice taste like?

Allspice is a warm spice that is often described as a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It has a peppery bite and is slightly sweet, making it a popular choice for both sweet and savory dishes. Allspice can add depth and complexity to both types of dishes, from spiced cakes and pies to stews and meat dishes.

Notes

  • This allspice substitute will work well in recipes that call for ground allspice.

Looking for more homemade spice recipes? Try these out:

  • Homemade Blackened Seasoning
  • Homemade Cajun Seasoning
  • The Most Popular Jamaican Herbs and Spices and How to Use Them
  • Jamaican Jerk Seasoning
  • Lemon Pepper Seasoning Recipe

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

spice ingredients mixed together in a mortar bowl with a measuring spoon.
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Allspice Substitute

If you don't have allspice or can't find it in your local grocery store, in a couple of minutes you can create a homemade allspice substitute using common spices you may already have in your pantry. 
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Total Time5 minutes mins
Course: Seasoning
Cuisine: Caribbean
Keyword: allspice substitute
Servings: 2.5 tablespoons
Calories: 19kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

  • Small bowl
  • Airtight container

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon
  • 3 teaspoons Ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon Ground nutmeg

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg and stir until they are well combined.
  • Store the allspice substitute in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Notes

  • This allspice substitute will work well in recipes that call for ground allspice.

Nutrition

Serving: 2.5tablespoon | Calories: 19kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 41mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 1mg

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

April 19, 2023 by Tanya 4 Comments

A sandwich filled with shredded bbq chicken.

My delicious BBQ chicken in the slow cooker will make for an easy dinner tonight. A delicious recipe loaded with a smoky taste and great flavor. Serve piled in a warm sandwich topped with even more bbq sauce and slaw!

A sandwich filled with shredded bbq chicken.

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

Full Recipe Ingredients/Instructions are available in the 
recipe card at the bottom of the post. 
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

This isn't any basic barbecue chicken, my homemade bbq sauce brings the heat, tang, and smoke you want in a bbq pulled chicken. A perfect addition to a backyard summer gathering, lunch buffet, or family gathering.

This chicken has the flavor and texture of BBQ chicken that has been cooked low and slow, similar to pulled pork. To get this texture, I use a mixture of both chicken thighs and chicken breast but feel free to use all chicken breast if you prefer.

Try these tasty recipes alongside your pulled chicken: Homemade Refrigerator Pickles, Coleslaw, and Oven-roasted Cauliflower. This will quickly become a favorite meal to serve the family.

A serving bowl full of shredded bbq chicken.

Ingredients for Slow-Cooker BBQ Chicken

  • Boneless skinless chicken - For this recipe, I used half-boneless skinless chicken breasts and boneless chicken thighs. If you have one or the other, feel free to just use chicken breast OR thighs.
  • BBQ seasoning - Try our homemade BBQ seasoning packed with smoked paprika, brown sugar, celery salt, garlic powder, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • BBQ sauce- Use your favorite barbecue sauce, Sweet Baby Rays is a delicious option! Or, give our homemade bbq sauce a try. Ketchup, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, little apple cider vinegar, molasses, dry mustard, salt, cayenne pepper, and liquid smoke make up our bbq sauce. And it only takes about 10 minutes to put it together!
slow cooker BBQ chicken ingredients,

Tools needed for this recipe

  • Slow Cooker

How To Make Shredded BBQ Chicken in the Crock pot

Place chicken in the slow cooker insert. Sprinkle with bbq seasoning and rub the seasoning into the chicken.

chicken breasts and thigh in the slow cooker insert.

Add the tangy bbq sauce on top.

bbq sauce added to the chicken.

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours.

Cooked bbq chicken in the slow cooker.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken from the insert and shred the chicken. I use my Kitchenaid mixer to speed up this process.

Shredding the chicken with a stand mixer.

Return the chicken to the crock pot insert and stir in the bbq sauce. Add additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Shredded bbq chicken in the slow cooker insert.

Serve your bbq shredded chicken and enjoy!

tongs grabbing bbq chicken.

How to store BBQ chicken leftovers

Once your leftover chicken has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Can I freeze pulled bbq chicken? Yep! Allow the chicken to cool and place it in freezer-safe, airtight containers or plastic bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Try freezing in individual servings.

What's the best way to shred chicken

Shredded bbq chicken can be prepared with two forks, as we've done for so long. The most recent discovery in shredding chicken starts with your stand mixer, believe it or not! You can just as well use a hand mixer too.

Simply add your cooked chicken breasts (this goes for boiled or baked as well) to the bowl of your stand mixer, and use the paddle attachment to shred the chicken in just a few minutes.

This method can also be done with any pulled pork or roast you want to be shredded or "pulled".

A serving bowl full of shredded bbq chicken.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving crockpot bbq chicken between warm (sometimes toasted) brioche hamburger buns, topped with extra sauce, Monterey jack cheese, and cole slaw. BBQ shredded chicken can also be served with any of these tasty dishes:

  • Baked Potatoes
  • Corn on the cob
  • Garden Salad
  • Coleslaw
  • Homemade Pickles

Notes

  • If you're serving bbq chicken as part of a buffet, don't leave it out for longer than 2 hours. The temperature of the meat will drop, causing bacteria to grow.
  • When serving at a buffet, try to maintain a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above.
  • Feel free to double the recipe. Depending on how much you make should determine what size crockpot you should use. This recipe cooks perfectly in a smaller 3qt slow cooker.
  • If using frozen chicken first, I recommend defrosting it before adding it to the slow cooker, as the USDA suggests. However, if you must add frozen chicken, cook it longer until it reaches a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Looking for more slow cooker recipes? Try these out:

  • Slow Cooker Black Beans
  • Super Easy Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes
  • Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
  • Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
  • Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Mushrooms

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

A serving bowl full of shredded bbq chicken.
Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

My delicious bbq chicken in the slow cooker will make for an easy dinner tonight. A delicious recipe loaded with a smoky taste and great flavor. Serve piled in a warm sandwich topped with even more bbq sauce and slaw!
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time3 hours hrs
Total Time3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course: Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine: American
Keyword: slow cooker bbq chicken
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 196kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken ½ thighs, ½ breast
  • 1 tablespoon BBQ seasoning
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

  • Place chicken in the slow cooker insert. Sprinkle with bbq seasoning and rub the seasoning into the chicken.
  • Add BBQ sauce on top. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken from the insert and shred the chicken.
  • Return the chicken to the slow cooker insert and stir in the bbq sauce. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 196kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 500mg | Potassium: 515mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 163IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 1mg
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Welcome!

Welcome to My Forking Life! Hi, I'm Tanya, attorney, busy wife and mom, and lover of quick, easy, and delicious meals.

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