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Tag: dinner recipes

  • Set It and Forget It: 10 Easy Crockpot Dinner Recipes for Busy Nights

    Set It and Forget It: 10 Easy Crockpot Dinner Recipes for Busy Nights

    When life gets hectic, the last thing you want to worry about is preparing dinner. Thankfully, with a trusty crockpot, you can “set it and forget it” while enjoying a flavorful, home-cooked meal at the end of a busy day. These easy crockpot dinner recipes are perfect for when you need a meal that practically cooks itself. Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting friends, or just want to come home to a hot dinner, these recipes will make your life easier without compromising on taste!

    1. Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    Taco night just got easier with this simple slow cooker chicken taco recipe! Throw chicken breasts, salsa, taco seasoning, and a little lime juice into the crockpot and let it cook to perfection. Shred the chicken when it’s done and serve with tortillas, guacamole, cheese, and all your favorite toppings for a quick and flavorful meal.

    Ingredients:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 cup salsa
    • 1 packet taco seasoning
    • Juice of 1 lime
    • Flour tortillas
    • Toppings: cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa

    Instructions:

    1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
    2. Add salsa, taco seasoning, and lime juice.
    3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
    4. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve with tortillas and toppings.

    2. Crockpot Beef Stew

    This comforting beef stew is hearty and filling—perfect for chilly nights. Just toss beef, carrots, potatoes, onions, and broth into the crockpot, and let it simmer for hours until tender. It’s a cozy, family-friendly meal that requires minimal effort.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs beef stew meat
    • 4 carrots, chopped
    • 3 potatoes, cubed
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 4 cups beef broth
    • 2 tsp dried thyme
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Add beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions to the crockpot.
    2. Pour in the beef broth and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
    3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until meat is tender.
    4. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

    3. Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

    Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce—this recipe is a game-changer. Simply season the ribs, pour on your favorite BBQ sauce, and let the crockpot do the work.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 racks of baby back ribs
    • 1 cup BBQ sauce
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Rub ribs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    2. Place ribs in the crockpot and cover with BBQ sauce.
    3. Cook on low for 7-8 hours until the ribs are tender.
    4. Serve with extra BBQ sauce and your favorite side dishes.

    4. Crockpot Chicken and Rice

    This simple and delicious dish features chicken and rice cooked together in a creamy broth, making it a one-pot wonder. Add some veggies for extra flavor and nutrition.

    Ingredients:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 cup long-grain rice
    • 2 cups chicken broth
    • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
    • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
    2. Add rice, chicken broth, and cream of mushroom soup.
    3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, then shred the chicken and mix it all together.
    4. Add peas (if using) and cook for an additional 15 minutes before serving.

    5. Slow Cooker Chili

    Perfect for chilly evenings, this slow cooker chili is packed with flavor and can be customized to your preference—add ground beef or turkey, beans, tomatoes, and spices, and let the slow cooker do the rest.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 can diced tomatoes
    • 1 packet chili seasoning
    • 1 cup beef broth

    Instructions:

    1. Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet, then transfer to the crockpot.
    2. Add beans, tomatoes, chili seasoning, and broth.
    3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
    4. Serve with cheese, sour cream, and cornbread.

    6. Crockpot White Chicken Chili

    A twist on traditional chili, this creamy white chicken chili is made with tender chicken, white beans, green chilies, and spices. It’s a comforting and flavorful option for any night of the week.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs chicken breasts
    • 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 can diced green chilies
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 4 cups chicken broth
    • 1 tsp cumin
    • 1 tsp chili powder
    • 1 cup sour cream

    Instructions:

    1. Add chicken, white beans, green chilies, onion, broth, and spices to the crockpot.
    2. Cook on low for 7-8 hours.
    3. Shred the chicken, then stir in sour cream before serving.

    7. Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan

    This easy crockpot version of chicken parmesan combines breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a simple yet satisfying meal. Serve over pasta or with garlic bread for a complete dinner.

    Ingredients:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 jar marinara sauce
    • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 cup breadcrumbs

    Instructions:

    1. Coat the chicken breasts in breadcrumbs and place them in the crockpot.
    2. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
    3. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
    4. Serve with pasta or garlic bread.

    8. Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

    Skip takeout and make this delicious beef and broccoli dish right in your slow cooker. The tender beef is cooked in a savory sauce and paired with crisp-tender broccoli for a quick and tasty meal.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced thinly
    • 3 cups broccoli florets
    • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    • 1/4 cup beef broth
    • 2 tbsp brown sugar
    • 2 tbsp cornstarch

    Instructions:

    1. Add beef, soy sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar to the crockpot.
    2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours until beef is tender.
    3. Add broccoli and cornstarch, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
    4. Serve over rice for a complete meal.

    9. Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

    Creamy, cheesy, and totally comforting, this mac and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Simply throw in the ingredients and let the crockpot work its magic while you go about your day.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
    • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1 can evaporated milk
    • 2 cups milk
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp salt

    Instructions:

    1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot and stir.
    2. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until creamy and melted.
    3. Serve as a side dish or a main course with your favorite protein.

    10. Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

    A comforting pasta dish, this slow cooker baked ziti combines pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a filling and delicious dinner. It’s the perfect dish for busy families.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
    • 1 jar marinara sauce
    • 3 cups ricotta cheese
    • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

    Instructions:

    1. Layer pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan in the crockpot.
    2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    3. Serve with a side of garlic bread.

    Conclusion:

    Crockpot dinners are the ultimate solution for busy nights when you want a delicious meal without the hassle. These recipes are simple, flavorful, and require minimal prep time, making them perfect for hectic weeknights or lazy weekends. So, set it and forget it, and enjoy a satisfying dinner without the stress!

  • Romantic Valentine’s Dinner for Two!

    Romantic Valentine’s Dinner for Two!

    pink and red roses centerpiece near silverwares
    Photo by Edward Eyer on Pexels.com

    When it comes to creating a romantic atmosphere, few things are as effective as a thoughtfully prepared dinner for two. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night at home or celebrating a special occasion, a delicious meal can set the tone for a memorable evening. With these romantic dinner recipes, you’ll find inspiration to whip up dishes that are as impressive as they are intimate.

    Why Cook at Home?

    Cooking at home offers a personal touch that no restaurant experience can replicate. It shows effort, creativity, and thoughtfulness—qualities that make any evening extra special. Plus, you have the freedom to tailor the meal to your and your partner’s preferences.

    Romantic Dinner Ideas to Try

    1. Garlic Butter Steak with Herb Potatoes

    • Why it’s Romantic: A perfectly cooked steak with buttery herb flavors feels indulgent and luxurious.
    • Quick Tip: Use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme to elevate the dish. Pair it with a bold red wine for the perfect accompaniment
    • Ingredients:
    • 2 ribeye steaks (6–8 oz each)
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
    • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
    • 1 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
    • 1 tsp fresh thyme (chopped)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 2 cups baby potatoes (halved)
    • Instructions:
    • Season steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear steaks 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Add butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet, basting the steaks as they cook. Remove and let rest.
    • In the same skillet, cook baby potatoes until golden and tender. Serve alongside the steak.

    2. Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

    • Why it’s Romantic: There’s something undeniably elegant about a creamy pasta dish. The bright lemon adds a refreshing twist to the richness.
    • Quick Tip: Use fresh shrimp for a sweet and delicate flavor, and don’t forget to sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top!
    • Ingredients:
    • 8 oz linguine or fettuccine
    • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Chopped parsley (for garnish)
    • Instructions:
    • Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and set aside.
    • In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook shrimp until pink. Remove shrimp.
    • Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice. Simmer until thickened.
    • Toss pasta and shrimp with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Garnish with parsley.

    3. Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

    • Why it’s Romantic: Juicy chicken stuffed with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil creates a beautiful and colorful plate that’s full of flavor.
    • Quick Tip: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet and tangy finishing touch.
    • Ingredients:
    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 4 slices fresh mozzarella
    • 4 slices tomato
    • 4 fresh basil leaves
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
    • Instructions:
    • Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast.
    • Stuff each breast with mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Secure with toothpicks.
    • Rub chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Sear in a skillet over medium heat, 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

    4. Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter

    • Why it’s Romantic: Lobster screams sophistication and celebration. Pair it with roasted asparagus or a side of risotto for a complete meal.
    • Quick Tip: Broil the lobster tails to achieve a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
    • Ingredients:
    • 2 lobster tails
    • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
    • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1 tsp lemon juice
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Instructions:
    • Preheat broiler. Split lobster tails down the middle and loosen meat from the shell.
    • Mix butter, garlic, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Brush over lobster meat.
    • Broil 8–10 minutes until opaque and slightly golden. Serve with additional butter for dipping.

    5. Mushroom Risotto with White Wine

    • Why it’s Romantic: Risotto requires care and attention, making it a labor of love. The earthy mushroom flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy rice.
    • Quick Tip: Use Arborio rice and stir consistently to get the perfect creamy texture.
    • Ingredients:
    • 1 cup Arborio rice
    • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (warmed)
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
    • 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
    • 1/2 cup dry white wine
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Instructions:
    • Heat olive oil in a saucepan. Sauté onion and mushrooms until softened.
    • Add rice and cook for 1–2 minutes. Pour in wine and stir until absorbed.
    • Gradually add warm broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until absorbed. Repeat until rice is tender.
    • Stir in Parmesan, butter, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.

    6. Decadent Chocolate Cake

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp baking soda
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 1/2 cup whole milk
    • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
    • 1 large egg
    • 1/2 cup boiling water
    • Powdered sugar or chocolate ganache (optional, for topping)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
    2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    3. Add milk, oil, and egg. Mix until smooth. Gradually stir in boiling water. The batter will be thin.
    4. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    5. Let cool completely before topping with powdered sugar or ganache. Slice and serve.

    Setting the Scene

    Creating a romantic dinner isn’t just about the food—it’s about the ambiance, too. Here are a few tips to elevate the experience:

    • Dim the Lights: Use candles or string lights for a warm, cozy glow.
    • Music Matters: Choose a playlist of soft jazz, classical music, or your favorite love songs.
    • Table Setting: Bring out the nice dinnerware and use cloth napkins for an upscale touch.
    • Personal Touches: Add a handwritten note or a small bouquet of flowers to make the table feel extra special.

  • Easy Homemade Three-Bean Chili Recipe

    Easy Homemade Three-Bean Chili Recipe

    If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful chili that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal, this Three-Bean Chili with McCormick Chili Seasoning is exactly what you need! Packed with protein, rich spices, and a blend of beans, this recipe comes together quickly using simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this chili will be a hit every time.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 can Chili beans
    • 1 can Red kidney beans
    • 1 can Black beans
    • 2 cups water
    • 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon (vegetable or chicken)
    • 1 tablespoon Tony’s Creole seasoning (or your favorite seasoning blend)
    • 1 tablespoon McCormick Chili Seasoning
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
    • 1 can Diced tomatoes with chiles
    • 1 small onion (diced)

    Instructions:

    1. Prep the Ingredients: Drain and rinse the chili beans, red kidney beans, and black beans. Set them aside. Dice the small onion and mince the garlic.
    2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    3. Combine the Beans: Once the onion and garlic are cooked, add the chili beans, red kidney beans, and black beans to the pot. Stir to combine everything.
    4. Add the Seasoning and Broth: Add the Better Than Bouillon, Tony’s Creole seasoning, McCormick Chili Seasoning, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together. Pour in the 2 cups of water and bring to a simmer.
    5. Simmer the Chili: Once the chili starts to simmer, add the can of diced tomatoes with chiles (don’t drain it). Stir everything together, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
    6. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more chili seasoning, Creole seasoning, onion powder, or salt if desired.
    7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili is thickened and the flavors are well-combined, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy it with a topping of shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.

    Conclusion:

    This easy Three-Bean Chili, enhanced with McCormick Chili Seasoning, is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and pantry staples, you’ll have a delicious, filling meal ready to enjoy in no time. Make it for your next dinner, and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite!

  • Easy Homemade Delicious Whole Chicken with Potatoes in the Oven

    Easy Homemade Delicious Whole Chicken with Potatoes in the Oven

    If you’re looking for a delicious, budget-friendly meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make, this roasted whole chicken with potatoes is the perfect dish for you. It’s comforting, aromatic, and simple to prepare, with ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

    What makes this recipe so fantastic is the balance of juicy, tender chicken with crispy, seasoned potatoes. The chicken is seasoned with rich butter, a combination of spices, and stuffed with a whole onion for even more flavor. The potatoes surround the chicken, soaking up all the delicious juices while they roast in the oven, resulting in a satisfying one-pan meal.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
    • 4 tablespoons of butter (room temperature)
    • 1 tablespoon Tony’s Creole seasoning (or your favorite seasoning blend)
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
    • 1 large onion (for stuffing)
    • 4-5 medium potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
    • Olive oil (for coating potatoes)
    • Salt and pepper (for seasoning potatoes)
    • Optional: Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme for garnish)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the chicken gets crispy skin while staying tender inside.
    2. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the packaging, pat it dry with paper towels, and place it in a roasting pan. Rub the entire chicken with the butter, making sure to coat all parts of the skin. This will help create a golden, crispy texture.
    3. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with the Tony’s Creole seasoning, onion powder, paprika, and freshly cracked black pepper. Be generous with the seasoning and make sure to rub it all over the skin, under the wings, and inside the cavity.
    4. Stuff the Chicken: Take the whole onion and cut it in half. Place one half inside the cavity of the chicken for extra flavor. The onion will infuse the chicken with moisture and sweetness as it roasts.
    5. Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast it for 1 hour. The chicken will start to cook through and the skin will begin to crisp up.
    6. Prepare the Potatoes: While the chicken is roasting, peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper to season.
    7. Add the Potatoes: After the chicken has been roasting for 1 hour, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Arrange the seasoned potatoes around the chicken in the roasting pan. Use a spoon or baster to drizzle some of the chicken’s juices over the potatoes. This will ensure they absorb all the delicious flavors from the chicken.
    8. Roast Again: Return the roasting pan to the oven and continue cooking for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender and golden brown. You can check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
    9. Baste: Throughout the cooking process, use a spoon or baster to spoon some of the chicken’s juices over the chicken and potatoes every 20 minutes. This will keep the chicken moist and help the potatoes absorb even more flavor.
    10. Serve: Once the chicken is golden brown and the potatoes are tender, remove everything from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted potatoes on the side, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

    Conclusion:

    This whole chicken with potatoes is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an incredible meal. The butter and seasoning on the chicken provide a rich flavor, while the potatoes roast to perfection in the chicken’s juices. The best part? It’s all cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Enjoy your inexpensive, yet absolutely delicious meal!

  • Cozy and Comforting Easy Chicken or Turkey Noodle Soup

    Cozy and Comforting Easy Chicken or Turkey Noodle Soup

    Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of noodle soup, especially during the chilly months or when you’re feeling under the weather. This Easy Chicken or Turkey Noodle Soup is not only comforting but also quick to prepare, thanks to a few pantry staples and frozen veggies. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, or you can make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and using vegetable broth instead. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe!

    Ingredients:

    • 1/2 onion, diced
    • 1 carton (32 oz) chicken or turkey broth
    • 4 cups water
    • 1 tbsp Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor
    • 2 chicken bouillon cubes
    • 1 tsp turmeric
    • 1 tsp onion powder
    • Black pepper, to taste
    • 2 cups medium egg noodles
    • 1/2 bag (about 1 cup) frozen peas and carrots
    • 1/2 cup frozen broccoli
    • 1/4 cup half and half
    • Salt, to taste
    • Optional: 1-2 cups cooked, shredded chicken or turkey (if desired)

    Instructions:

    1. Prepare the Base:
      • In a large pot, combine the diced onion, chicken or turkey broth, and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
    2. Add Seasonings:
      • Stir in the Better Than Bouillon, chicken bouillon cubes, turmeric, onion powder, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
    3. Cook the Vegetables:
      • Add the frozen peas, carrots, and broccoli to the pot. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
    4. Cook the Noodles:
      • Turn off the stovetop and stir in the egg noodles. Cover the pot and let the residual heat cook the noodles until tender (about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
    5. Incorporate the Protein (Optional):
      • If you’re using cooked chicken or turkey, stir it into the soup during the last 2-3 minutes of resting to warm through.
    6. Add Half and Half:
      • Stir in the 1/4 cup of half and half during the final minutes for a creamy finish.
    7. Adjust Seasonings:
      • Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. You may also add more bouillon for a richer flavor if desired.
    8. Serve and Enjoy:
      • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

    Tips and Variations:

    • Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or milk toward the end for a creamy version of this soup.
    • Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken or turkey.
    • Add Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme make great garnishes for added flavor.
    • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

    This Easy Chicken or Turkey Noodle Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. Enjoy the warmth and comfort in every spoonful!

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