Wow, can you believe the end of 2013 is already here! I know i can't believe it. As history depicts, everyone always does a recap of their favorites from that year and I'm following suit. I have compiled my absolute favorite dishes of 2013, and I promise your mouth will be watering after reading this.
Ready? Here we go:
Favorite dish #10
Bruschetta Burger Bites
The picture angle makes these petite eats look full-sized burgers but they were actually two-bite wonders! They were so simple to make, which is my favorite kind of recipe! Made from left-over bruschetta bread and topped with parmesan or cheddar cheese.
Favorite dish #9
Spinach & Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
I reinvinted a much loved JBistro dip by stuffing it into baby portabella mushrooms, topped with bacon & japanese bread crumbs, and baked to perfection. These were simply amazing and a wow factor for any party!
Favorite dish #8
Roasted Tomatillio Salsa with Fresh Tortillia Chips
This is not your ordinary green dip you get at your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant. My take on this Tex-Mex classic takes it to the next level. Fire roasted veggies, chicken stock, and a dash of cumin makes this salsa incredible! Paired with with freshly fried flour tortillia chips is the ideal compliment. The crunchy exterior and pillowy inside makes it the perfect chip.
Favorite dish #7
Mini Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
I was experimenting with a new cheesecake recipe and used what I had in my pantry; chocolate graham craxkers, unflavored gelatin, and chocolate chips. And so these mini delights were born! Topped with chocolate ganache was the perfect finish.
Favorite dish #6
Chicken Roll-ups with Bacon Gravy
My family (and myself) were bored with plain "chicken & rice" dishes, so I had to create something new and exciting. I saw a picture on Facebook of these cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts and thought I'd give it whirl but just adding my own touches. Instead of cream cheese I stuffed them with a garlic & herb Swiss cheese spread and then wrapped tightly in bacon. Pair this with simple but always delicious buttered rice and salad then top with bacon gravy and you have a comfort meal you will never forget!
Favorite dish #5
Home-made Pizza
This year I had the opportunity to teach myself how to make pizza dough from scratch. I was so happy when it turned out almost perfect. I definitely need to perfect my recipe but it was still delicious. Topped with my spicy marinara, venison, and a multitude of cheeses made my Family happy!
Favorite dish #4
Orange scented Blueberry Upside-down Cake
Inspired by the pineapple upside down cake, this blueberry upside down cake was scrumptious. Plain yellow cake gets a dose of flavor with orange zest & juice and then topped with fresh whipped cream. Perfect for a light dessert enjoyed pool-side.
Favorite dish #3
Herb Crusted Chicken Pot Pie
In my family, chicken pot pies are the #1 requested dish, so it does get made quite a bit. So I decided to jazz it up by adding fresh herbs (straight from my garden) to the pie crust, and it was a match made in Heaven. Fresh thyme, sage, and oregano made this otherwise boring crust a little piece of heaven! Needless to say, now all pot pies are made this way!
Favorite dish #2
Strawberries & Cream Napolean
I'm betting you could not guess what these are made with!? I made these for my Ladies Night In party and they were an instant hit! Fresh made vanilla whipped cream, orange juice macurated strawberries, and fried wonton sheets is a combination most people wouldn't think of. The wonton wrappers were covered in pumpkin pie spice, and once assembled, topped with chocolate ganache. This dessert was amazing & light.
...and my #1 Favorite dish of 2013 is
Pocket Pizza's
I had the honor of being the in-home chef for one of my best friends daughters birthday party and these little pizza's were devoured by the adults and the kids! Wonton wrappers were stuffed into muffin tins and filled with marinara, italian seasoning, pepperoni, and topped with mozzarella cheese, then baked till golden brown. These are PERFECT for any party, adult or kid-friendly!
Well JBistro fans, these are my picks for my favorite dishes of 2013. Is there a specific recipe you enjoyed? I'd love to hear from you! My dream for 2014 is to see JBistro Style and this blog TAKE OFF to new heights never even imagined. Remember to join me on my tour of culinary exploration and Follow My Food!
