I know we still have over a month left before it's officially Fall time, but with the kids going back to school it seems like it should already be here. I know that it's wishful thinking, but I can't help it. When I was a kid, I went back to school when there was a crispy Autumn breeze and you had to wear pants and a sweater to school (because it was cold, not because we wanted to), but then again back then we went back-to-school after Labor Day. With my kids going back to school this week, I've been slowly transitioning our weekly menu to include a dinner or two that doesn't scream Summertime. I am fully aware it's 100 degrees out, but I will admit I'm getting over having burgers & fries so many times over Summer. I want to have warm comfort foods like pot pies, stews, and soups. It's like I'm trying to convince myself it's cooler outside than it really is (not sure if it's working or not though).
The other night I had a Stella Cider with dinner, the crips apple cider taste to it had my mind racing with Fall apple recipes. Dreaming of a warm spiced apple bread and a nice cup of tea, yes, I realize I sound like an old lady, but I don't care. Apple recipes don't always have too sweet either, there are lots of ways to make savory apple dishes too. There's nothing like a good, spiced apple pork loin with roasted potatoes and a honey mustard glaze for example. Yes, I will share that recipe in the coming months. Don't forget that apple is a yummy and welcome addition to stuffing as well, I find it gives a welcome tang to it. You can make a yummy roasted squash and sweet potato medley with apple too.
One of my other favorite things to do when it's Fall time is to make fresh homemade pumpkin puree for the season. I have been able to get a few people who say they don't like pumpkin pie (gasp) to like it after trying it with fresh pumpkin and not canned. I personally think it makes a world of difference for how the pie tastes. For one thing, it's not bright orange, it come out more the color of a sweet potato pie, so like a light brown color. But the flavor difference is unmistakable! The creaminess of the pumpkin with the oat milk is amazing. Yes, I do make a dairy free/cinnamon free pumpkin pie, and it tastes amazing. This would be another recipe to look forward to in the coming months.
These are just a few of the things I look forward to cooking during Fall. There are countless more things I look forward to making, but I thought I would share a few ideas with you. What recipes or foods do you love to cook during Fall? Do you have a request for an allergen friendly recipe? I'd love to hear your thoughts on the topic, maybe inspire a new recipe or two. Send me a message with what you hope to see in future posts, or if you have had some of my cooking before, is there a recipe you are hoping that I'll share? Food for thought and I hope to hear from you.
Kim
