Real life with Lar

Lar’s Homemade Stuffing This recipe is truly an act of love. About 32 years ago, my husband (aka Smokin) was wanting homemade stuffing.  I went searching for what makes a good stuffing and this is what I came up with. My husband loves it and so does everyone else. And, although I still love me some Stove Top Stuffing, nothing beats homemade.  My stuffing is easy to make, affordable and delicious which is the best kind of recipe.  Here's what you will need... 6 c Stale Bread (just tear up regular white or wheat bread(about 12-16 slices.) Leave out over night to dry out some) 2 Sticks Butter (one melted) 6 Stalks of Celery, diced (leaves included) 1 Lrg. diced Onion (White or Yellow) 1 tsp Pepper Salt to taste(I use between a ½-1 tsp) 1 T Rubbed Sage 1 ½ T  Thyme 1 C Applesauce ⅔ C Chicken Stock To make the stuffing… Put the bread pieces in a large bowl In a skillet or pot melt 1 stick of butter Add the diced onion and celery in the skillet, over med-high and sauté till softened, ab

Lar's Sweet Potato Casserole It's Supercalifragilisticeexpialidocious! When I tell you this is a guaranteed crowd pleaser I am not exaggerating! Any one I have served this to that says they aren’t a sweet potato fan is a convert after just one bite! I first shared this recipe in 2016 and it still is one of my biggest blog posts. This is a super easy side dish that could also be a dessert. It is sweet, flavorful, and oh so decadent. If you have family or friends who are gluten-free just omit the bourbon and replace with a tablespoon of Vanilla Extract.  Here's what you need... Allspice is not shown  Part 1~ The Casserole Base 6 medium peeled and diced Sweet Potatoes 4 T Butter 2/3 C Orange Juice 1 T Cinnamon  2 tsp Nutmeg 1 tsp Salt (taste after its mixed to see if more salt is needed) 1 (or 2) shot of Bourbon (Omit this and add 1 T of Vanilla Extract for a gluten free recipe) Place the peeled diced potatoes in a pot and cover with water. Boil until fork tender then drain in