A to Z Challenge: Kitchen

It would be safe to say that a good portion of our courtship took place in the kitchen of our various apartments.   I've already talked about baking alphabet cookies shortly after we first met, and also about ice cream and homemade banana splits, but there were many other evenings spent getting to know each other in the kitchen.

Probably the first full dinner that DH cooked for me was one of his favorite dishes,  Fruited Curry Chicken served over white rice.   He started by sauteing two boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a tablespoon or two of melted butter.  Once the chicken is starting to brown, he added a tablespoon or so of his favorite curry powder, a couple of tablespoons of brown sugar, and a small can of fruit cocktail with juice.   After letting it all simmer together until the chicken was cooked through and the curry and fruit sauce was thickened, he served it over the white rice.   We have enjoyed and shared this dish with many people over the years.  On another evening that summer, DH prepared a fancy dinner of roasted cornish game hens and wild rice.  

Another favorite treat that DH and I enjoyed together that first summer was his Mom's recipe for No-Bake Cookies.   These are perfect to whip up in just a few minutes after an evening activity, and make plenty of chocolaty peanut buttery cookies to share with friends and roommates.   This is another family favorite that we have continued to make many times over the years.

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After we married, and especially after our children started to come along, DH didn't spend quite as much time in the kitchen, but he does still occasionally put on his chef's hat and apron to whip up a batch of bread or cookies or some other exotic dish for a special occasion or a family dinner.  I rather enjoy having a DH who doesn't shy away from the kitchen.   Especially when he cleans up after himself too!

Mom's No Bake Cookies

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup milk

4 Tbs cocoa powder

2 cups sugar

dash of salt

Mix together in heavy saucepan over medium=high heat.  Bring to a boil and cook for 2 1/2 minutes, stirring to prevent burning.  Remove from heat.  Stir in 1/2 cup peanut butter and 3 cups quick cooking oatmeal.   Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper covered cookie sheet.   Let cool until firm and enjoy!  Makes 2 to 3 dozen cookies.