Seafood Gumbo

Seafood Gumbo

Seafood Gumbo

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Seafood Gumbo Recipe from Foodnetwork

Prep time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Cooking time: 3 hours and 50 minutes

Serving size: 12 to 15 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups finely chopped onion
  • 2 green bell peppers, finely chopped
  • 1 blue crab
  • 1 lobster tail
  • 1/4 cup Creole seasoning (e.g., Tony Chachere’s)
  • 4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound crabmeat
  • 1 bunch scallions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 bunch parsley, finely chopped
  • Cooked white rice, for serving (optional)
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Directions

  1. Prepare the Roux:
    • In a wide Dutch oven over medium-low heat, combine the flour and vegetable oil.
    • Cook, whisking constantly, until the roux turns dark brown, about 45 minutes.
    • Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Cook Vegetables:
    • In an extra-large, wide pot, bring 10 quarts of water to a boil.
    • Stir in the onion, bell peppers, and prepared roux.
    • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft, about 45 minutes.
  3. Cook the Crab and Lobster:
    • Add the blue crab and lobster tail to the pot and boil until cooked through about 15–20 minutes.
    • Remove the lobster tail and crab. Discard the crab.
    • Let the lobster cool slightly, remove the meat from the shell, cut it into small chunks, and refrigerate.
  4. Season the Gumbo:
    • Add the Creole seasoning to the pot and bring to a boil.
    • Cook until the liquid reduces by one-quarter, about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  5. Add Seafood:
    • Add the shrimp to the pot and cook over medium heat until firm, about 20 minutes.
    • Stir in the crabmeat and reserved lobster meat, cooking for 10 more minutes.
  6. Finish:
    • Add the scallions and parsley to the gumbo.
    • Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice, if desired.
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Guacamole

Guacamole

Easy Guacamole

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Guacamole Recipe from Allrecipes

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: N/A

Serving size: Yields 2 cups

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 ripe tomato, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Directions

  1. Mash Avocados:
    • In a medium serving bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until smooth.
  2. Add Vegetables:
    • Stir in the finely chopped onion, chopped tomato, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
  3. Season:
    • Add the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly.
  4. Chill:
    • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
  5. Serve:
    • Enjoy your guacamole with chips, tacos, or as a topping for your favorite dish!
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“No” Foods for Dogs

“No” Foods for Dogs

Human foods that are bad for dogs

Humans have discovered and made some of the most delicious foods throughout history and we have shared our delicacies with many cultures around the world. Sadly there are a few things that we cannot share with out furry friends. Here is a short list of some of those “no-no” foods.

  1. Chocolate- This candy has a chemical called theobromine, which is extremely toxic to dogs, depending on the amount eaten and on the size of the dog. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting and seizures so if you pooch eats any chocolate, take them to their veterinary immediately.
  2. Grapes – This one surprised me when I found out grapes were toxic and can be fatal to dogs. Though the full reason why it is toxic to dogs is still unknown, the cause of eating grapes is well documented. If they eat grapes they could experience vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pains or in extreme cases some have gone into comas. So it’s best just to keep those yummy fruits to humans only.
  3. Cinnamon – Though not necessarily bad for dogs it can cause dogs to have irritated mouths. It can also lower their blood sugar so it’s a good idea to keep cinnamon and cinnamon oils away from your furry friends.

There are quite a few other foods to keep from your dog on this list provided by the American Kennel Club and in this article from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

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Valentines Day

Valentines Day

The History and Celebration of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, is a day dedicated to love and romance. While many associate it with chocolates, flowers, and heartfelt gestures, its origins date back centuries and have evolved significantly over time.

The History of Valentine’s Day

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The history of Valentine’s Day can be traced back to ancient Rome. The most widely accepted origin story involves Saint Valentine, a priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage for young soldiers. Valentine continued to perform secret weddings, leading to his imprisonment and eventual execution on February 14th around 270 AD. Legend has it that he wrote a farewell letter to a loved one, signing it “From your Valentine.”

Over time, the Catholic Church recognized multiple saints named Valentine, and their stories merged with the pagan festival of Lupercalia, a fertility celebration held in mid-February. By the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine’s Day, and it gradually became a day to celebrate romantic love. The tradition of exchanging love notes, known as “valentines,” gained popularity in the Middle Ages and flourished during the Victorian era with the rise of printed greeting cards.

Fun Valentine’s Day Activities

Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, or friends, or enjoying self-love, there are plenty of activities to make Valentine’s Day special:

  • Romantic Dinner Date – Cook a fancy meal at home or dine at a cozy restaurant.
  • Movie Marathon – Watch classic romance films or lighthearted romantic comedies.
  • DIY Gift-Making – Create handmade cards, love letters, or personalized gifts.
  • Baking Together – Try baking heart-shaped cookies or a decadent chocolate cake.
  • Scavenger Hunt – Organize a fun love-themed treasure hunt.
  • Spa Night – Relax with candles, face masks, and soothing music.
  • Game Night – Play board games or trivia with a Valentine’s theme.
  • Outdoor Adventure – Take a scenic hike, go ice skating, or have a picnic (if the weather allows).

Must-Watch Valentine’s Day Movies

If you’re planning a cozy night in, here are some great Valentine’s Day movie picks:

  • The Notebook (2004) – A timeless love story filled with passion and devotion.
  • Pride & Prejudice (2005) – A classic romance based on Jane Austen’s novel.
  • Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) – A mix of humor and romance with a stellar cast.
  • La La Land (2016) – A musical love story that captures the magic of romance.
  • 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) – A modern take on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew.
  • To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018) – A charming teen romance.
  • When Harry Met Sally (1989) – A heartwarming and witty take on friendship and love.

Unique Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

If you want to step away from traditional celebrations, consider these unique ideas:

  • Love Letter Time Capsule – Write love letters to each other and open them years later.
  • Recreate Your First Date – Relive your first moments together.
  • Virtual Valentine’s – If you’re apart, plan a virtual date night.
  • Volunteer Together – Spread love by helping out at a shelter or charity event.
  • Bookstore Date – Pick out books for each other and enjoy coffee and conversation.

Celebrating Galentine’s Day

Galentine’s Day, made famous by the TV show Parks and Recreation, is celebrated on February 13th as a day dedicated to honoring female friendships. It’s a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the amazing women in your life and spend quality time together. Here are some fun ways to celebrate:

  • Brunch with the Girls – Gather your best friends for a festive breakfast or brunch.
  • DIY Wine & Paint Night – Unleash your creativity with a painting session while sipping on wine.
  • Themed Movie Marathon – Watch empowering and feel-good movies like Legally Blonde or Bridesmaids.
  • Self-Care Night – Have a spa night at home with facials, manicures, and comfy pajamas.
  • Friendship Gift Exchange – Exchange small, thoughtful gifts as a token of appreciation.

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic relationships—it’s a celebration of love in all forms. Whether you’re spending it with a significant other, or friends, or taking time for yourself, there are countless ways to make the day special.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Lox Bagel

Lox Bagel

Lox Bagel

Photo by Getty Images

Lox Bagel Recipe from Tastes Better from Scratch

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: N/A

Serving size: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 6 bagels
  • 2/3 cup herb and chive cream cheese (or plain cream cheese)
  • 10 oz cold smoked salmon or lox slices
  • 3 tablespoons capers
  • Small chunk of red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • Optional Toppings: Thinly sliced cucumber, tomato, avocado
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Directions

  • Prepare the Bagels:
    Cut each bagel in half and spread each half generously with cream cheese.
  • Add the Toppings:
    Layer thin slices of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
  • Garnish:
    Add a few slices of red onion, capers, and a sprinkle of fresh dill for flavor.
  • Optional Additions:
    Enhance the bagel by adding optional toppings like thinly sliced cucumber, tomato, or avocado.
  • Serve:
    Enjoy your bagel open-faced or turn it into a sandwich. Serve fresh!
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Eagles deny the Chiefs a Super Bowl three-peat with dominant defense in 40-22 rout

Eagles deny the Chiefs a Super Bowl three-peat with dominant defense in 40-22 rout

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Cooper DeJean, Josh Sweat and the Philadelphia Eagles’ ferocious defense denied Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs a Super Bowl three-peat.

It wasn’t even close.

DeJean got a pick-6 on his 22nd birthday, Sweat tormented Mahomes and the Eagles routed the Chiefs 40-22 on Sunday to secure the franchise’s second Super Bowl championship.

Jalen Hurts threw for two touchdowns and ran for a score on a tush push, and Vic Fangio’s defense was so dominant that the Eagles didn’t need much from Saquon Barkley.

The game-changing running back finished with 57 yards, breaking Terrell Davis’ record for yards rushing in a season, playoffs included. Hurts threw for 221 yards.

With Donald Trump becoming the first president in office to attend a Super Bowl, the Eagles outplayed Kansas City in every facet, delighting a raucous pro-Philly crowd that celebrated each score with a familiar rendition of “Fly! Eagles! Fly!”

Even Taylor Swift’s presence couldn’t help the Chiefs. They lost for the first time in 10 games this season with the pop superstar in a suite watching boyfriend Travis Kelce, who didn’t catch a pass until late in the third quarter.

Not in Kansas City’s worst nightmares could its fans have imagined such a lackluster performance. The Chiefs had won three of the previous five Super Bowls, losing 31-9 to Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers four years ago.

Mahomes was 8-0 against Fangio’s defenses before the longtime coordinator and former Broncos head coach outcoached Andy Reid, capping his first season with his hometown team. Reid fell to 3-3 in Super Bowls, including a loss with the Eagles.

The Eagles sacked Mahomes six times, the most of his career, including 2 1/2 by Sweat. And they did it without Fangio calling a single blitz.

Barkley, the 2024 AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, only had 31 yards rushing in the first half when Philly built a 24-0 lead.

The Chiefs were aiming to become the third team in NFL history to win three straight championships and the first to three-peat in the Super Bowl era.

Hurts nearly led the Eagles to victory against the Chiefs two years ago in Arizona, but Mahomes led a comeback and Harrison Butker kicked the game-winning field goal in the final minute for a 38-35 victory. Mahomes rallied Kansas City to an overtime victory over San Francisco last year for the Chiefs’ second straight title.

This time, a revamped Philly defense featuring eight new starters from the 2022 team made sure Mahomes had no chance to pull off his magic.

Eagles coach Nick Sirianni, who mocked fans chanting “Fire Nick!” during a victory over Cleveland in October and was called a “clown” on national television, should finally silence critics by adding a championship ring to a resume that includes the fifth-best winning percentage in league history.

Sirianni was showered with Gatorade with nearly three minutes left in the game while backup QB Kenny Pickett took snaps in mop-up duty.

Barkley helped push Hurts into the end zone from the 1 to give Philadelphia a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.

Up 10-0 after Jake Elliott’s 48-yard field goal, Sweat and Jalyx Hunt sacked Mahomes on consecutive plays. Mahomes then rolled out and made an errant throw that was picked by DeJean, who returned it 38 yards for a 17-0 lead.

It was Mahomes’ first pick-6 in 21 career playoff games and ended a streak of 297 straight passes without an interception.

All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun picked Mahomes again late in the second quarter, and Hurts connected with A.J. Brown on a 12-yard TD pass for a 24-0 lead.

Hurts threw a perfect 46-yard TD pass to DeVonta Smith to make it 34-0 late in the third.

Mahomes fired a 24-yard TD pass to Xavier Worthy to avoid the shutout, but the 2-point conversion failed. He threw two late, mostly meaningless TD passes, one to DeAndre Hopkins and another to Worthy.

After two weeks of discussions about questionable calls that led to public perception that officials favor the Chiefs — a theory NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called “ridiculous” — the first penalty of the game only fueled critics.

A 32-yard pass from Hurts to Brown to the Chiefs 18 on fourth-and-2 was negated by a penalty for offensive pass interference. Brady, now a Fox analyst, and officiating analyst Mike Pereira both disagreed with the call, although Brown shoved Trent McDuffie’s facemask.

On the next possession, the Eagles benefited from an unnecessary roughness penalty on McDuffie against Dallas Goedert following an incomplete pass on third-and-5.

Hurts then connected with Jahan Dotson on a 27-yard pass to the 1 and scored on the next play.

Hurts’ streak of 217 passes without a pick ended in the first half when he was intercepted deep in Kansas City territory, but the Chiefs didn’t capitalize.

The Green Bay Packers are the only NFL team to win three championships in a row, doing it from 1929-31 and 1965-67.

The NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers from 2000-02, led by Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neill, are the last team in the major American professional leagues to win three straight titles.

Parmesan Basil Orzo

Parmesan Basil Orzo

Orzo with Parmesan & Basil

creamy garlic and parmesan orzo pasta with lemon zest and parsley - orzo with parmesan & basil stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
Photo by Getty Images

Orzo with Parmesan & Basil from Taste of Home

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Serving size: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta or pearl couscous
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • Thinly sliced fresh basil (optional)
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Directions

  1. Toast the Orzo:
    • In a large cast-iron or heavy skillet, sauté the orzo in butter over medium heat until lightly browned, about 3–5 minutes.
  2. Cook the Orzo:
    • Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender, about 10–15 minutes.
  3. Finish with Flavor:
    • Stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and pepper. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the orzo is creamy.
  4. Garnish and Serve:
    • If desired, top with thinly sliced fresh basil for extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
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