The big guy's hunting side kick, John, was here yesterday so I planned "man" food for dinner. John left after breakfast this morning and the big guy's off Thursday after class for their annual javelina huntin' trip. I usually spend the next 10 days praying the hunt is less than successful and quite honestly I think for the guys it's just an excuse to get away from the women anyway.
Last night's dinner was a send off of sorts with these fabulous braised short ribs flavored with pancetta, onions, and red wine. Adapted from The Pioneer Woman's recipe, it's chock full of flavor and certainly filled the neighborhood with a sweet aroma. I know that for a fact because we sat outside on the patio and enjoyed the sun for the three hours it was cookin' and believe me, we could smell it plum good from there. I pretty much followed Ree's recipe, but added quartered mushrooms, beautiful little fresh pearl onions, garlic, a bay leaf and canned consomme as well as the beef broth. I find using consomme really adds depth to a beef braise.
I also cooked up Ree's recipe for creamy polenta with goat cheese to go with the braised short ribs and believe me, they're a great "with" to sop up the wonderful gravy. The big guy said he really liked them too, but had a hankering for some biscuits and mashed potatoes. Oh well, maybe next time right babe? Rounded out by some roasted parsnip and brussels sprouts, it was a perfectly delicious Sunday night dinner - maybe not so healthy, but perfectly delicious!
Today I'm going to get my kitchen back in order after this marathon cooking weekend and then maybe take a long nap with the Maxer dawg. I think I'm gettin' too darn old for this stuff because I'm exhausted. Boy, that's sure hard on the old ego. Oh one more thing - after being on this moderation plan for a month I'm convinced one can get really sick of food when you have too much of it. That's kind of where I'm at today, but trust me round about 6 tonight I'll be back in the kitchen cookin' dinner.
Can't go wrong with PW's recipes, can ya? Looks mighty tasty Juney.
There's a little surprise for you on my blog hon. Check it out!
Posted by: Mags | 02/01/2010 at 06:47 PM
Eeeeek that's quite the surprise Mags. It would take me far too long to come up with 6 lies AND I don't know 7 bloggers so I must be off the hook!
Posted by: June | 02/01/2010 at 06:54 PM
Looks delicious! Love your blog. This is my first visit...I will be back again!
Stay Cozy, Carrie
Posted by: Carrie | 02/01/2010 at 11:46 PM
Carrie - thanks for visiting. I just checked you out too and I'll be back soon.
Posted by: June | 02/02/2010 at 07:04 AM