August

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See.

Mary rates it a 7. I liked it. I found the footbinding descriptions fascinating - in a morbid type of way. But I didn't love it. I was bored with the tedious descriptions of the worthless daughters in the Chinese homes (maybe though that was the point).

Sarah's momma's vegetable beef soup

1 lb Sirloin tips or stew beef
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 bag of frozen mixed soup veggies
beef broth
beer

In a large stock pot, brown the beef in oil on all sides. Add equal parts water and beef broth to cover the beef and boil for 2 hours, adding more as necessary. Add one bottle of beer, the bag of frozen veggies and any other vegetables (canned corn, cabbage) and boil 30 more minutes.

Serve with cornbread and more beer – yum!

Recipe: Veggie Chili with Beef

Veggie Chili with Beef

1 minced onion
2 tbsp olive oil
2 minced garlic cloves
1 red pepper, diced
1 large zucchini, diced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp cayenne pepper
2 28-oz cans crushed tomatoes
1 15 oz can corn, drained
1 15 oz can chick peas, drained
1 15 oz can pinto beans, drained
1 15 oz can kidney beans, drained
1 15 oz can navy beans, drained
1 lb ground beef
1 cup salsa


Brown ground beef in skillet and drain. Heat oil in soup pot. Add garlic, onions, peppers and zucchini. Saute over medium heat about 5 min. Add seasonings. Cook 2 more minutes. Stir in tomatoes, corn, chick peas, beans, meat and salsa. Reduce heat to low simmer uncovered at least 45 minutes.


I mix up the beans and use black, whatever kinds you like.

Hot Tub Book Club's Blog

This blog features reviews of books we've read, recipes of dishes we've cooked, and photos of good times we've had. Enjoy!