Command Performance My Cookware of Choice

A few years ago I purchased a new set of command performance cookware from HSN. I didn't need a complete new set, but it was such a bargain for the whole set. My original intent was to buy it for the big 11" skillet. I thought it would be perfect to bake my casseroles in, and serve it right out of the pan. I love the shape of my pans. I was going to give the rest of the set to my son.

I ended up keeping the command performance pans. I gave away the tools (spoons, spatula, ladle), but I kept the entire set of pans. I gave my perfectly good set of luster craft cookware to the kid when he moved out.

My original set of command performance pans is in beautiful condition. The handles are gold and shiny, the pans continue to have a beautiful mirror finish. I have a big family and a lot of company for dinner. My pans get used a lot... I'm really impressed with how well they have stood up to the abuse they go through in our home.

I have purchased more of the set, since my original purchase. I also have the triple burner set. I keep it on my buffet table. It's beautiful to serve in! I have had guests comment about what a fabulous set of cookware I have. I love that!

HSN has the command performance set up as their today's special. They are also offering the 7 piece triple burner set with free shipping and handling. If you need pans... watch HSN for the demo throughout the day on Sunday. You may just be impressed enough to buy your own set.

Chopped Onions Without The Tears

Here's a helpful hint I learned a long time ago. This tip keeps me from crying as I'm chopping onions. Before I start gathering all the ingredients for my recipe, I put my onion in a container and cover it with ice, then pour water over it. Okay, that's not all. Then I light 3 or 4 tea light candles and place them around my cutting board. When I chop my cold onion, there are no tears! I've chopped really hot onions without having the efffects from gasses the onion puts off.

I keep my tea lights and a book of matches right next to my cutting board, so I don't have to go looking all over the house for them. They are as important to my kitchen as my measuring spoons.

New England Clam Chowder - Super Bowl Menu

I realize this is down to the last minute, but here it is, I finalized my menu for game day. Tomorrow. Wow... that is calling it close. This is a pitch-in super bowl party, so there will be a lot of other great foods on the table too. Here's what I'm taking to the party...

1. Chipotle dip
2. 7 layer bean dip
3. Tortilla chips
4. lil' smokies
5. Buffalo wings
6. 4' sub sliced into individual slices - from our local sub-shop

And because I'm all for the New England Patriots continuing with their winning season, I'm also making up a big pot of New England style clam chowder. Now if the Seahawks were still in the game, it would have to be a pot of Ivar's clam chowder!

New England style Clam Chowder

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb smokey bacon cut into small pieces
• 1 cup onion diced
• 1/2 cup celery diced
• 2 (5 oz ) cans baby clams
• 7 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cans (10 1/2 oz each) cream of celery soup
• 1 cup cream
• 1 cup half and half
• butter
• salt & pepper to taste

Directions

• In your soup pot, cook bacon until it's crispy
• Add the onion and celery, cook until it's translucent
• Add the juice from both cans of clams
• Add potatoes
• Cover and cook until the potatoes are done. Stir occasionally to keep the potatoes from sticking.
• Add soup, and cream and half & half. Stir completely.
• Add the clams and butter.
• Cover and continue cooking over medium low heat for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally so it doesn't scorch.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.

This recipe can easily be doubled.

What I love about a super bowl party, and the menu, is how laid back everyone is on game day. It all equals up to good entertainment, good food, and good company... it doesn't get much better.

Go Patriots!