A Dad in the Kitchen


Hide the pots and pans, 'cause Dad's heading for the kitchen!
I like to cook. I like to take food thingys and make a meal out of them. Is it a crime to enjoy cooking as a release from the daily stress we all encounter in this technological age? Some people jog, others play golf, workout, or become one with the TV remote control. I cook. Has a tough day at the office got you down? Take it out on those carrots your peeling. Somebody cut you off in traffic? Imagine that cad, who nearly redesigned your fender, as the bread dough your kneading.

Cooking is fun. Cooking is relaxing. Cooking is a reflection of your personality. Cooking is a way to share with friends, family and even Tinkles, your pet Cocker Spaniel. Cooking is creative. Make a heart-shaped meat-loaf for your Valentine. Have a picnic in your living room; (ants are optional). Let your kids put a face on that pizza with olives and green pepper. Have breakfast for dinner. Make a silverware-optional meal. Make an entire meal in one pot.

Cooking is a family activity. Teach your kids how to peel potatoes. Let your five-year-old set the table. It doesn't matter that you have four spoons, no plate and eleven napkins. Let your kids pick out the dinner menu for the week. I hear chocolate pudding and spaghetti every night for a week is actually quite good. At least you know what your getting!

Cooking is educational. Learn how to fold ingredients into liquids. Be learned in all things blanched. Know how to cut in shortening. Find out what a pinch and dash really are. Cooking is what this column is all about, so let's get started.

If I were to categorize, this recipe would be from the quick and easy category. The recipe below may be served as an appetizer, or can be a meal in itself. I hope you enjoy my variation on a classic Black Bean Soup.

Black Bean Soup (Steve's version)

5 or 6 - 16oz. cans black beans
2 oz. Oscar Mayer or Hormel Real Bacon bits; (found in the salad dressing section)
1 - 16oz. can diced tomato (Italian or with onion style)
1 - 4oz. can mild diced green chiles (drained)
1 - small/medium onion;diced (You may also substitute 1 bunch of green onion)
2-3 cloves of crushed garlic (invest in a good quality Garlic Press!!!)
1 ½ T. of oregano
1 ½ t. basil
1 ½ t. cilantro

The copyright of the article A Dad in the Kitchen in Quick & Easy Recipes is owned by Steve Compton. Permission to republish A Dad in the Kitchen in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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