Onion Gravy

Last night we had seasoned, pan fried cubed steaks that were braised in an onion gravy that was just too yummy not to share! It was one of those "let's see what's in the fridge" impromptu recipes that ended up turning out pretty well!

1 large onion, finely chopped (use a food processor if you can)

4 T. margarine

1 T. dried dill (to taste)

3 T. sour cream

1/3 c. red wine

1 T. sugar

salt and pepper to taste

Melt margarine in a skillet over medium, add onions, and cook until golden. Drain off some of the liquid rendered by the onions, then add the rest of the ingredients and simmer. I put the cooked cubed steaks in with the gravy to coat them and allow the meat to absorb some of the flavors of the gravy, but it could just as easily be spooned over the top.

Shrimp and Corn Chowder

This recipe is so quick and so good! TJ usually dislikes soup because it was all he could eat when he had his jaw wired shut for 6 months in high school (dang that mosh pit!) but last night he went back for seconds - unheard of! You can use cream of potato soup if you want, but I like the chunky texture of the real deal. It's very rich, so you'll need to go light on the side dishes. Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days but I seriously doubt it will last that long!

1 medium onion, diced

2 T. butter or margarine

2 cans potato soup

2 cups milk

1 tsp. cayenne pepper (or to taste)

1 T. sugar

1 c. frozen corn

1 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 c. shredded cheese

In the bottom of a Dutch oven, melt margarine and add onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onion begins to turn golden. Add soup, milk, pepper, sugar and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and add shrimp. Cook until shrimp are pink, stirring every so often to keep the bottom from sticking. Stir in cheese and cook until cheese is melted.

Great with a green salad, fruit, and crusty bread!