Easy cooking is a crock

The crock pot (or slow cooker) is the best thing ever invented. That might be up for debate, but not on my blog. I haven’t found an easier way to cook, unless we’re having sandwiches for supper.

Here’s what I love about it. You prepare the veggies and meat (wash, cut, season), then pop it all into the cooker, add a tiny bit of water/broth/whatever, then turn it on low and go write your bestselling novel. Or go back to bed and binge a show, it’s up to you, no judgment here. Roughly eight hours later, supper’s done.

The specifics on which veggies go best with which meat and the prepping/seasoning will vary depending on what you’re cooking. Here’s my favorite slow cooker recipe:

Gotta Meet My Deadlines Cube Steak

Ingredients
1 package (usually containing 3-5) cube steaks
1 yellow onion, cut into roughly 1/4-inch slices
4.5-oz. jar sliced mushrooms, drained
1/2 cup flour
Salt, pepper, other spices, to taste
1 packet of onion soup mix
1 cup water

Directions
1. Cut the cube steaks into strips about 1-2 inches wide. (If you prefer, you can keep the steaks their original size. I like them cut.)
2. Add the salt, pepper, and whatever other spices you like into the flour. Mix.
3. Spread the flour/seasoning onto a plate or sheet of wax paper and roll the cube steak pieces through it until the pieces are floured up.
4. Layer into the slow cooker in the following order: onions, steak, mushrooms, onions, steak, mushrooms, onions.
5. Mix the soup mix and water, then pour over all.
6. Cook on low for 7-8 hours.

Serve over cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

Morning Joe is a Go

Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only. It is not to be considered medical advice.

Good news for all the coffee drinkers out there! After years of being told coffee is bad for us, science is coming around to our way of thinking (which is pretty much: “No go til morning joe”).

I found several news stories highlighting the benefits of that delicious morning brew. (Keep in mind that the consistent exception is pregnant or nursing mothers. And in any case, you should consult your doctor with any concerns about this information.)

Here are a few excerpts with links to the full articles:

Review finds coffee linked to longer life and lower disease risk

“…when consumed in moderation (typically 3-5 cups per day), [coffee consumption] is safe and beneficial for most adults.” (Link to article)

Morning Coffee May Help You Live Longer, Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk

“…those who have a cup of joe in the morning have a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and lower overall mortality risk compared to those who drink coffee throughout the day or don’t drink it at all.” (Link to article)

9 Unique Benefits of Coffee

“Coffee does more than boost your energy. A few daily cups of coffee may also lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and depression, support weight management, and help you live a longer life.” (Link to article)

The Science-Backed Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee

“…caffeine increases energy availability and expenditure, decreases fatigue, enhances physical, motor, and cognitive performance, and increases the ability to solve problems.” (Link to article)