Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Soup is a soul-warming dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a slow cooker. This comforting and nutritious soup is packed with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and an assortment of vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this recipe will surely impress your taste buds and warm your heart. At only 1 point per serving, this WW recipe is sure to please the most discriminating. The original WW recipe can be found on their website.

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1 Point – Total Time: 4 hour 55 min – Prep Time: 25 minutes – Cook Time: 4 hour 30 minutes – Serves: 6

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History and Background: Mexican cuisine boasts a rich culinary heritage, with its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients. Traditional Mexican soups are known for their bold combinations of spices, vegetables, and protein. Slow cooking is a technique often employed to enhance the depth of flavors and tenderize the ingredients. Mexican Chicken Soup, or “Sopa de Pollo,” has been enjoyed for generations in Mexican households. It has become popular worldwide due to its delicious taste and simplicity. Let’s now explore the ingredients that make this dish a standout.

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Let’s dive into the history, background, ingredients, and preparation of this delicious Mexican-inspired dish.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp Olive oil
• 8 cups, 2 (32-ounce) cartons Reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 medium, chopped Uncooked onions
• 6 large cloves, sliced Garlic
• 2 pounds, (skin removed) Uncooked skinless chicken breast with bone
• 3 small, sliced, or diced Carrots
• ½ tsp, or to taste Table salt
• 1 pinch Cayenne pepper
• 2 medium Poblano chilis
• 14½ oz, fire-roasted variety, drained Canned diced tomatoes
• 6 sprigs, fresh leaves Cilantro
• 6 medium Radishs
• 1 Lime, cut into wedges

Preparation Steps

1. Heat oil in medium skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds longer. Transfer to 5- or 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Add chicken, carrots, salt, and cayenne to slow cooker; pour in broth. Cover and cook until chicken and vegetables are fork-tender, 4–5 hours on High or 8–10 hours on Low.
3. Meanwhile, preheat broiler. Line broiler rack with foil.
4. Place poblano peppers on prepared rack and broil 5 inches from heat, turning, until skins are blistered and charred, 10–15 minutes. Transfer peppers to zip-close plastic bag. Squeeze out air and seal bag; let peppers steam 10 minutes. Peel peppers and remove stems and seeds, dice peppers and reserve.
5. With slotted spoon, transfer chicken to plate. When cool enough to handle, remove and discard bone. Tear or cut chicken into bite-size pieces.
6. Return chicken to slow cooker along with poblanos and tomatoes. Cover and cook until heated through, about 15 minutes on High. Ladle soup evenly into 6 bowls. Top with cilantro leaves, radishes, and pickled peppers.
7. Serving size: 2 cups

Tips:

• For an extra kick of spice, add a diced jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Feel free to customize the soup by adding additional vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or spinach.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend some of the ingredients before serving.

Conclusion: Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Soup is a fantastic way to indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. This easy-to-make recipe brings together tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a colorful array of vegetables, resulting in a hearty and satisfying soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends, this soup is a delightful crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite toppings and let your taste buds revel in the warmth and complexity of Mexican flavors.

Welcome to a delicious and nutritious recipe that combines the satisfying flavors of beef and rice with the vibrant sweetness of bell peppers, all complemented by a tangy tomato sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also suitable for those following a Weight Watchers plan. The original recipe is available on the WW web site.

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6 Point(s) – Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes – Prep Time: 15 minutes – Cook Time: 45 minutes – Serves: 4

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A History of Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers have a rich history that can be traced back to various culinary traditions around the world. While the exact origins of stuffed bell peppers are unclear, stuffed vegetable dishes have been enjoyed in different cultures for centuries.

One theory suggests that stuffed vegetables, including bell peppers, originated in the Mediterranean region. The use of vegetables as a vessel for stuffing allowed for the efficient use of available ingredients and resulted in flavorful and satisfying dishes.

The concept of stuffing vegetables became popular in the Ottoman Empire, where the technique was used to create dolmas. Dolmas are stuffed grape leaves, but the same method was applied to other vegetables, including bell peppers. The Ottomans spread this culinary tradition throughout their empire, influencing various cuisines across the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and the Mediterranean.

In the United States, stuffed bell peppers gained popularity in the early 20th century. As immigrants from different countries settled in the US, they brought their culinary traditions with them, including stuffed vegetable dishes. The concept of stuffed bell peppers was embraced and adapted to incorporate local ingredients and flavors. American versions often featured ground meat, rice, and a tomato-based sauce.

Stuffed bell peppers have also found a place in Mexican cuisine, where they are known as “chiles rellenos.” Mexican stuffed peppers are typically roasted or fried and filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or beans.

Today, stuffed bell peppers are enjoyed in many parts of the world and have become a versatile dish with countless variations. The stuffing can be customized to suit different dietary preferences and cultural influences. From classic recipes to modern twists, stuffed bell peppers continue to be a beloved and satisfying meal option for many people.

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Let’s dive in and create these mouthwatering stuffed bell peppers!

Ingredients

• 2 sprays Cooking spray
• ½ cup Uncooked long grain brown rice (or 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice)
• 1 pound Uncooked 95% lean ground beef
• 1 small finely chopped Red onion (1 cup)
• 1 tsp Ground allspice
• 1 tsp Paprika
• ¾ tsp Table salt
• ¼ tsp Black pepper
• ¼ tsp Ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup chopped fresh Dill
• ¼ cup chopped Fresh parsley
• 4 medium to large, assorted colors, halved lengthwise and seeded Bell pepper(s)
• ½ cup cool water
• 4 cloves, minced Garlic
• 2 cups, or strained tomatoes Canned salted tomato puree
• ½ cup Plain fat free Greek yogurt

Procedure Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a large shallow baking pan with cooking spray. Cook the rice according to package directions.
2. Combine the cooked rice, beef, onion, allspice, paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, the cinnamon, 2 tablespoons dill, and 2 tablespoons parsley in large bowl.
3. Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the bell pepper halves. Arrange the peppers in a single layer in the prepared baking pan. Add the 1/2 cup cool water to the pan. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake until peppers are tender, about 15 minutes more.
4. When the peppers are almost done, spray a small saucepan with cooking spray and set over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the tomato puree, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper and bring to boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Divide the peppers evenly among 4 plates, top evenly with the yogurt, the remaining 2 tablespoons dill, and the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with sauce.
6. Per serving (2 stuffed pepper halves, 1/2 cup sauce, and 2 tablespoons yogurt)

Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Each bite of these beef and rice-stuffed bell peppers brings you a burst of flavor and leaves you feeling satisfied without compromising your weight management goals. Bon appétit!

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More history and background on stuffed bell peppers

Stuffed bell peppers have become part of culinary traditions in various cultures around the world, each adding its unique flavors and ingredients to create delicious and distinctive dishes. Here are a few culinary traditions associated with stuffed bell peppers:

Mediterranean Cuisine: Stuffed bell peppers are commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine. In countries like Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon, they are often known as “dolmades” or “dolmas.” The filling typically consists of a mixture of rice, herbs, spices, and sometimes ground meat. The stuffed peppers are then cooked in a flavorful broth or sauce, often featuring ingredients like tomatoes, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Mexican Cuisine: Stuffed bell peppers, known as “chiles rellenos,” are an integral part of Mexican cuisine. In this tradition, large bell peppers, often poblano peppers, are roasted or charred to remove the skin and then stuffed with a variety of fillings. These can include cheese, such as queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese, seasoned ground meat, beans, or a combination of these. The stuffed peppers are then coated in a light batter and either fried or baked. They are typically served with a tomato-based sauce, such as ranchero or mole.

Eastern European Cuisine: Stuffed bell peppers are popular in Eastern European countries like Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. In these regions, the filling typically consists of a mixture of ground meat (such as pork, beef, or lamb), rice, onions, and herbs. The stuffed peppers are then simmered in a savory tomato sauce and often served with sour cream or yogurt on the side.

Middle Eastern Cuisine: Stuffed bell peppers are also enjoyed in Middle Eastern cuisine. In countries like Iran and Iraq, they are known as “dolmeh” and are typically filled with a mixture of rice, ground meat, herbs, and spices. The stuffed peppers are then cooked in a tangy tomato-based sauce or steamed. They are often served as part of a larger spread of mezze or accompanied by yogurt or tahini sauce.

These are just a few examples of the culinary traditions associated with stuffed bell peppers. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing for various cultural adaptations and personal preferences when it comes to fillings, seasonings, and cooking methods.

In the heart of a bustling coastal town of Miramar Beach, Florida, Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant stands as a beacon of culinary excellence. Renowned chef Emeril Lagasse’s current endeavor has captured the essence of the ocean in a way that leaves diners spellbound. With its captivating ambiance, impeccable service, and a menu that showcases the best of coastal cuisine, Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts and foodies alike. We dined in celebration of Monique’s birthday in grand fashion at this culinary mecca, and this is my review of our dinner experience on Saturday, June 10, 2023.

The ambiance excites you the moment you step foot inside Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant, you are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the restaurant’s coastal theme. The well-spaced tables ensure privacy while allowing diners to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The service at Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant is impeccable from start to finish. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about their craft. From the moment we were seated, our server provided helpful recommendations and guided us through the menu, ensuring we made the most informed choices. The waitstaff’s professionalism and warmth elevated our dining experience and made us feel like valued guests.

Fresh Raw Oysters from the Florida and Alabama coasts

Emeril Lagasse’s culinary expertise shines through in every dish at Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant. The menu showcases an array of tantalizing seafood options, each prepared with finesse and creativity. We started with a selection of a half-dozen of each of three different varieties of raw oysters, Emerald Tide (FL), Naked Jade (AL), and Isle Dauphine (AL), each were delicate and tasty in their own way, each selection was served with a side plate that included cocktail sauce, prepared horseradish, a classic mignonette sauce, and crackers.

The main course was a seafood lover’s dream. The Brick Oven Roasted Whole Fish was perfectly cooked, with a harmonious blend of spices that enhanced the delicate flavors of the fish topped with jumbo lump crabmeat, asparagus, and a lemon butter sauce. I ordered the Vermillion Snapper, and Monique enjoyed the Speckled Trout. Benjamin devoured the Fresh Catch Grilled Grouper served with fingerling potatoes, haricot vert, and a lemon butter sauce.

Whole Roasted Vermilion Snapper with Asparagus, Jumbo Lump Crabmeat, and Lemon Butter Sauce

At Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant, the Whole Roasted Vermilion Snapper with Asparagus, Jumbo Lump Crabmeat, and Lemon Butter Sauce takes center stage as a showstopper entrée that combines the freshness of the sea with exquisite flavors and textures.

Presented on a platter, the whole roasted Vermilion Snapper commands attention with its impressive display. The glistening skin of the snapper is perfectly crisped, offering a tantalizing promise of what lies beneath. The snapper is expertly roasted, ensuring a moist and succulent flesh that effortlessly flakes apart with each forkful.

Nestled alongside the snapper, a vibrant arrangement of asparagus showcases the bounty of the land. These slender green spears are tender-crisp, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and delicate snapper. Their fresh, grassy flavors blend harmoniously with the seafood, creating a balanced and satisfying combination.

To elevate the dish to new heights of indulgence, generous portions of jumbo lump crabmeat adorn the snapper. The sweet and briny crabmeat, known for its delicate texture, enhances the richness of the snapper and adds an extra layer of luxuriousness. Each bite reveals the buttery and decadent nature of the crab, complementing the seafood flavors in a truly delightful manner.

Completing this extraordinary ensemble, a velvety lemon butter sauce drizzles over the snapper, infusing it with vibrant citrus notes and a touch of richness. The sauce adds a zesty and tangy element, enhancing the flavors of the seafood and brightening the entire dish. Its velvety texture glides over the snapper, bringing all the elements together in a symphony of taste.

The Whole Roasted Vermilion Snapper with Asparagus, Jumbo Lump Crabmeat, and Lemon Butter Sauce is a true celebration of coastal cuisine. With its succulent snapper, tender asparagus, luscious crabmeat, and zesty lemon butter sauce, this entrée is a masterpiece that showcases the skill and creativity of the culinary team at Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant. It is a dish that transports diners to the shores of the sea, where flavors intertwine to create a memorable and truly exceptional dining experience.

Whole Roasted Speckled Trout with Asparagus, Jumbo Lump Crabmeat, and Lemon Butter Sauce

Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant offers an entrée that showcases the delicate flavors of the sea with their Whole Roasted Speckled Trout. This culinary masterpiece captures the essence of coastal cuisine and leaves diners with an unforgettable experience.

Presented with flair, the Whole Roasted Speckled Trout is a visual delight. The glistening skin of the trout boasts a golden-brown hue, hinting at the perfectly crispy texture that awaits beneath. The fish is expertly roasted to perfection, ensuring a moist and flaky flesh that effortlessly falls off the bone.

As you savor the first bite, the inherent sweetness of the trout takes center stage. The flesh is tender and succulent, with a delicate flavor that is both mild and satisfying. The natural richness of the trout is enhanced by the roasting process, allowing the flavors to develop and shine.

Fresh Catch Grilled Grouper with Fingerling Potatoes and Haricot Vert

Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant takes pride in showcasing the freshest seafood, and one standout entrée that embodies their commitment to excellence is the Fresh Catch Grilled Grouper with Fingerling Potatoes and Haricot Vert.

As the dish is placed before you, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma immediately captivate your senses. The star of the show is a perfectly grilled grouper fillet, glistening with a light marinade that promises a burst of flavor with every bite.

The grouper fillet itself is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality. The fish is impeccably fresh, with firm, flaky flesh that melts in your mouth. The grilling process imparts a subtle smokiness while retaining the natural sweetness and delicate flavor of the grouper.

Accompanying the grouper are tender fingerling potatoes, which serve as a hearty and satisfying complement to the fish. These petite potatoes are cooked to perfection, boasting a creamy interior and a slightly crisp exterior. Their subtle earthy notes harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the grouper, creating a well-rounded and satisfying combination.

Adding a touch of elegance and freshness to the dish, haricot vert, a slender and tender variety of French green beans, completes the ensemble. These vibrant green beans are blanched to retain their crispness and vibrant color, providing a delightful textural contrast to the succulent grouper and velvety fingerling potatoes. With each bite, their mild, grassy flavor complements the overall composition of the dish, elevating it to new heights.

The Fresh Catch Grilled Grouper with Fingerling Potatoes and Haricot Vert embodies a celebration of coastal cuisine. The expertly grilled grouper, accompanied by the creamy and satisfying fingerling potatoes, and the crisp, vibrant haricot vert, results in a symphony of flavors and textures on the plate. This entrée is a true reflection of Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant’s commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and delivering an exceptional dining experience that showcases the very best of the sea.

Sweet Treats at Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant

Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant offers a delectable selection of desserts that are the perfect ending to a remarkable meal. We couldn’t resist trying the Olive Oil Cake, and the special Banana Cream Pie, and they did not disappoint.

Emeril’s Banana Cream Pie

Among the delightful selection of desserts at Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant, one standout creation that demands attention is Emeril’s Banana Cream Pie. This exquisite dessert is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the perfect marriage of bananas, cream, chocolate, and caramel.

As the pie arrives at your table, you can’t help but be captivated by its elegant presentation. Shards of chocolate jut out of a luscious layer of velvety whipped cream. The pie is then artfully drizzled with rich chocolate and caramel sauces, adding an indulgent touch to the already enticing creation.

With the first bite, you are greeted by the smooth and creamy banana filling. The flavor of ripe bananas is perfectly balanced, neither overpowering nor overly sweet. The creamy texture melts in your mouth, leaving a delightful sensation that lingers with every bite.

The addition of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy element, providing a contrast to the richness of the banana cream. Its cool and delicate sweetness enhances the overall experience, ensuring a harmonious combination of flavors.

Emeril’s Banana Cream Pie with Whipped Cream, Chocolate, and Caramel is a dessert that truly delights the senses. Its artful presentation, coupled with the perfectly balanced flavors, makes it an exceptional choice for those seeking a sweet finale to their dining experience. Whether you are a banana enthusiast or simply appreciate a well-crafted dessert, this decadent creation will leave you craving another heavenly slice.

Olive Oil Cake

In the realm of desserts, where butter often reigns supreme, Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant takes a delightful departure with their Olive Oil Cake—a unique and enticing creation that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean.

At first glance, the Olive Oil Cake stands out with its golden-brown exterior, hinting at the moistness within. The use of olive oil in lieu of traditional butter lends the cake a subtle richness and a tender crumb that is both luxurious and comforting.

With the first bite, you are greeted by a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The olive oil imparts a distinct earthy note, subtly intertwined with the sweetness of the cake. The result is a delicate balance of savory and sweet, creating a unique taste profile that is both intriguing and delightful.

The texture of the Olive Oil Cake is exceptional—moist and tender, with a slightly denser crumb that showcases the quality of its ingredients. The olive oil lends a lusciousness and depth to each bite, ensuring a rich and satisfying experience.

To complement the flavors of the cake, Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant often pairs it with a variety of accompaniments. A dollop of tangy citrus-infused whipped cream adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake, while a sprinkling of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey enhances its natural sweetness.

For an added textural element, a scattering of toasted nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, may adorn the dessert. Their crunchy texture and nutty undertones add a delightful contrast, elevating the overall experience and creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

The Olive Oil Cake at Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant is a testament to their commitment to innovation and culinary mastery. This unexpected twist on a classic dessert showcases their creativity and ability to push boundaries, resulting in a dessert that is both unique and deeply satisfying. A slice of Olive Oil Cake offers a memorable finale to your dining experience, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the versatility of this Mediterranean-inspired treat.

In conclusion, Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant is a testament to Emeril Lagasse’s culinary prowess and his ability to create a dining experience that truly captures the essence of coastal cuisine. From the captivating ambiance to the attentive service and mouthwatering dishes, every aspect of the restaurant exceeded our expectations. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or simply seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant is a must-visit destination. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey by the sea that will leave you longing for a return visit.

In the realm of vibrant root vegetables, baby carrots have captured the hearts of many with their tender texture and sweet flavor. Elevating these humble carrots to new heights, we introduce you to a delightful recipe: Sweet Orange Roasted Baby Carrots. This tantalizing dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the refreshing zing of citrus, resulting in a mouthwatering blend of flavors. Join us as we delve into the history of carrots, the intriguing background of this recipe, and, of course, the step-by-step guide to creating this culinary masterpiece.

A Brief History of Carrots:
Carrots, scientifically known as Daucus carota, have a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. Originating in the region now known as Afghanistan, wild carrots were initially cultivated for their aromatic leaves and seeds rather than their roots. It wasn’t until the 17th century in Europe that orange carrots, as we know them today, were developed through selective breeding.

The Sweet Orange Roasted Baby Carrots Recipe:
Now let’s explore the delectable combination of sweet carrots and tangy orange in this roasted dish. The recipe is simple yet yields outstanding results, making it an ideal choice for both everyday cooking and special occasions. This recipe is adapted from the WW recipe Sweet-orange roasted baby carrots.

Points: 1 ~ Total Time: 55 minutes ~ Prep Time: 10 minutes ~ Cook Time: 45 minutes ~ Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons fresh grated orange zest
• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Procedure Steps

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss all ingredients together in a 9X13-inch baking pan until well-coated. Cover with foil and bake, shaking pan once to toss, until carrots are crisp-tender, about 35 minutes.
2. Uncover pan and roast until carrots are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 8 to 10 minutes more. Yields about 3/4 cup per serving.

With their origins rooted in ancient times, carrots have evolved to become a beloved vegetable worldwide. By combining their inherent sweetness with the vibrant flavors of orange, we’ve crafted a simple yet exquisite dish that will awaken your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to savor the tantalizing blend of flavors in Sweet Orange Roasted Baby Carrots.