Northern Michigan Notes
Recipe Site for Real People
By Kathy English
May 21, 2008, 06:10

My reputation as a cook precedes me, even with my children.

They’ve heard how I ruined Jello.

They’ve heard the pancakes for 75 story from grandpa.

They’ve experienced my version of dinner when dad is away.

In our house, dad is the chief cook and mom is the chief bottle washer. And the kids know the difference.

I’ve heard the complaints, too. When the kids learn dad will be gone hunting for a week or so, and mealtime is up to me, this is what I hear.

Groan. "MOM’s cooking?"

Groan. "When’s dad gonna be home?"

I’ve learned, now that they’re past the toddler stage, that I can get away with breakfast for dinner perhaps twice at most, and never on consecutive days. Pancakes, french toast, scrambled eggs, and bacon will only get me so far.

I’ve also learned that McDonald’s is not going to carry me through the week, either. Nor will grilled cheese and tomato soup.

It’s possible to mooch a meal at grandma’s house, but if she’s up north with grandpa during hunting season, then I’m definitely on my own.

Thank goodness then, for sites such as this one: Angies Pangies, located at

http://angiespangies.com/ . One of Angie’s catch phrases is, "Helping people everywhere who are sick of spaghetti." And oh is it true.

If you’re like me, and cooking is not the fine art your spouse believes it could be, this is the site for you.

Here, you’ll find recipes that are indeed for real people. I recommend the Roasted Grape Tomatoes. The nice thing about this recipe (http://angiespangies.com/2008/03/29/saturday-sides-roasted-grape-tomatoes-i-didnt-forget-neener-neener/) is that you can really use any kind of tomato–and it calls for ingredients that most of us have on hand, such as salt, pepper, and olive oil. Green onions and tomatoes are the primary ingredients.

If you’re stuck for a side dish, you’ll find the tomato recipe as well as many others in the "Saturday Sides" link. Maple Chipolte Grilled Corn on the Cob appears just in time for the grilling season opener this May 26. A great Sassy Cuke (Cucumber) Salad recipe appears, one which my cousin says her mother used to make–she was pleased to have found the recipe at Angies Pangies.

Now lest you think that Angie, the creator of the site, is an Emeril-Martha Stewart-Rachel Ray chef who makes food that nobody in their right mind would eat, then you need to investigate the site more closely. She has children and a husband, and admits her household contains picky eaters. Her household also contains a vegetarian, which I think would be a challenge for any parent. Angie’s recipes appeal to all palates and address a variety of issues, including food allergies.

Hankering for Chinese cuisine? Then try "While the cat’s away, the Mouse makes Thai Beef Stir Fry." Angie’s husband makes guest appearances in the site, and he’s becoming an accomplished cook, himself. Szechuan Burgers with Cilantro Slaw sounds intriguing, too, for those who like the idea of Chinese flavoring with a familiar food shape.

If you’re more into chicken recipes, there’s a section for those as well. Italian and Mexican dishes also make an appearance.

You’ll find in the alphabetical links listing excellent recipes for snacks (Mother Lode Pretzels, anyone?) , eggs, soups and stews, and for those who like the taste of a gourmet meal without hours in the kitchen, there is a section for crock pot recipes as well. There is even a link for making drinks. And if you’re a fan of Irish Creme, once you try the recipe listed in this section, you’ll never buy another bottle of Bailey’s.

Got bread? No? Then a recipe for Garlicky Bread sticks can be found in the Bread link, and also a yummy recipe for Pesto-spiked bread. You’ll also find a recipe for something called "Bean Bread."

Angie balances each recipe writing with a dash of Dealing with Family Life, more than a pinch of Common Sense, and a healthy serving of Good Humor. The recipe will take you through step by step, with beautifully composed and colorful photos, inserted with each step. You can also view the recipe without the photos.

If you’re a household tired of Meatloaf Mondays and Spaghetti Tuesdays, then this is a site for you. Following recipes from Women’s Day magazine can be tiring and frustrating (remember? A month-long calendar composed of groceries and recipes you’re supposed to eat off all month?) But this site makes food preparation a good time. Especially when the foods presented appeal to all taste buds and all ages, and include easy to follow, step by step instructions.

Now, if I could just be sure my husband doesn’t see this latest post of mine, I’ll be all set.

http://angiespangies.com/ Angies Pangies: Bringing Real Green Beans to Your Kitchen