So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

What To Know About Arizona Chili Spices

By Cornelia White


Getting tired of your weeknight meals and looking for some new recipes to change things up? An easy way to do this without having to radically change your recipes is to add a dash of Arizona chili spices. These spices, seasonings and mixes will bring a new taste to any of your tried and true recipes. Add some ancho or chipotle powder to your family-loved beef stew for an easy change. A dash in soup enlivens the flavor. Your family will love the variety. Chili seasonings, mixes and sauces aren't just for Southwest and Tex-Mex food either. They give any recipe or dish a unique kick.

There are hundreds of varieties of Arizona chili spices. You can add intense heat with habenaras and jalapenos sauce. Or add a rich, smoky taste with poblano, ancho or chipotle powder. The mixes make a great dry meat rub or add some liquid to make a flavorful marinade and meat tenderizer. These seasonings also make a great alternative to salt. They add plenty of flavor without the sodium.

Farming chilies and other spices has a long tradition in the Southwest. The year-round sun, desert heat and alluvial soil provide a perfect setting for growth. Every crop has an ideal climate where it thrives, and Arizona is perfect for farming chilies. It gives every pepper an intensity that can't be beat.

Most of the chilies grown in the region come from family owned operations and the manufactures are small businesses. The Santa Cruz and Sulpher Springs valley are two areas in particular that are known for chili growing. These are not industrial-sized conglomerates. Just locals sharing their love of chilies with the world.

Chilies go naturally with Southwest and Mexican meals, but they go with any type of cooking. Poblano and ancho powders and mixes add a smoky flavor to stews and soups. Of course for adding heat, nothing beats a dash of fresh cayenne powder or a habanera hot-sauce. The seasoning mixes make great dips for parties and get-togethers. Each manufacturer has a unique blend, so have fun and experiment. All you need is some cream cheese or sour cream.

Finding Arizona chili spices is simple thanks to the web. There are many online retailers, manufacturers and you can even buy directly some farmers. There are many unique blends and mixes so you might try a variety or sampler pack to get you started. Each manufacturer has a different style so check around to see what appeals to you.

These mixes make great gifts too. Most retailers have gift baskets that are pre-made for your convenience. You can also put together your own selection. For a gift that keeps on giving, sign up for the spice-a-month club. You'll get a new seasoning mix every month. It will keep your cooking fresh and unique. They'll all ship products internationally too.

So if you want to spice up your traditional recipes or try some completely new dishes, get some Arizona chili spices. The individual powders are great for those who like to cook from scratch, but there are also mixes and marinades that speed up preparation.




About the Author:



No comments:

If You Are Unable To Be There But Want To Show You Love Them Then Send -