Bacon and Habanero Marmalade

My friend from work, Ashley, gave me a couple of habanero peppers from her parent's garden. The habanero peppers were a beautiful bright orange and packed full of spicy flavor. Not only were they beautiful, they delicious- like nothing you can find at your usual grocery store. I truly believe that the best ingredients make the best food... and these peppers are just a testament to that thought. These peppers were so fresh, and matched perfectly with sweet and salty creation. The peppers seemed perfect for a flavorful bacon marmalade. It added an unexpected kick, while beautifully accompanying the flavors of the smoky bacon marmalade. 

Bacon Habanero Marmalade (makes about 1 cup)
5 strips Bacon
1 Onion
2 Habanero Pepper
2 clove Garlic
2 tbsp Sugar
2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

1. In a frying pan, cook the bacon until crispy. 

2. Pour the oil from the bacon into a small saucepan or pot.

3. Cut the onion into short 1-inch strips. They should be very thin. 

4. Place the onion into the bacon oil and cook on medium-low heat until caramelized. 

5. Cut the peppers in half and remove the seeds. Chop the peppers into very small pieces and add to the onion. 

6. Cut the bacon into a small dice and add to the onion and pepper once they are caramelized. 

7. Add the remaining ingredients, and allow to cook on medium-low heat until majority of the liquid has evaporated out. The remaining liquid should be a syrup-y consistency. 

8. Allow the marmalade to cool slightly before canning. 

9. Serve warm!

This marmalade is simple to make, and goes well on pretty much anything. I spread some on toast with avocado, I put some on top of grilled chicken, and i can only imagine that it would be amazing on a burger. Just remember, a little bit goes a long way. This marmalade is packed with flavor, and can be pretty spicy if you have too much at once.

If you are not a big fan of spicy food, you can omit the habanero pepper. You could also reduce the amount you add in. This marmalade creates a nice kick without being unbearable or overpowering. 

Creamy Chicken and Veggie Pasta

The start of a new year usually means resolutions to eat healthier, lose weight, and be fit. These tasks can often be daunting, and viewed as impossible. Healthy eating seems like it would result in bland, tasteless food without any substance. However, you can make food that's healthy and delicious! Making healthier choices can be as simple as using whole wheat pasta or adding a few more veggies. Skip butter for low-fat oils, and seek to eat lean meats. I decided to take food that I really enjoy and choose healthier options. Try this simple, inexpensive, and quick recipe to kickstart healthy eating for your family!

Creamy Chicken and Veggie Pasta (Makes 8 Servings)
1 lb Whole Wheat Rotini Pasta 
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 lb Chicken Tenderloin or Breast
1/4 tsp Dried Sage
1/4 tsp Dried Basil
1/4 tsp Dried Thyme
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
8 oz Sweet Baby Bell Peppers
8 Baby Bella Mushrooms
6 oz Baby Spinach
2 tbsp Lemon Juice
1 cup Heavy Cream
1 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

1. In salted water, boil pasta to al dente, following the package directions.
2. Cut mushrooms into slices, dice bell pepper, and set aside.
3. Cut chicken breast into bite-size pieces.
4. In a hot pot, large saute pan, or wok, pour olive oil. When the oil is hot, add chicken and seasonings. Cook for about 3 minutes, until the chicken is almost completely cooked.
5. Then, add vegetables and cook slightly, for about a minute.
6. Add pasta, lemon juice, cream, and the remaining seasoning.
7. Mix thoroughly so that all of the flavors are well incorporated.
8. Remove from heat and serve to your close friends and family.

This may not be the healthiest option available, since it has a lot of carbs from the pasta and is made with cream, but it is a healthier way to enjoy pasta. Eating healthy does not mean that you have to restrict yourself to unseasoned chicken breast and kale for every meal; you can make healthier choices and reduce portions to create a flavorful, delicious, and simple meal. Happy New Year everyone! I hope this year is filled with lots of blessings and good fortune! Continue to share this blog!