If you’ve been here a while, you know I’m all about slow food, taking the time to enjoy the cooking or baking process.. often I’ll have music playing in the background to enhance the experience. But I’ll let you in on a secret, I, too, have those nights when it’s just crazy busy and I’d…
Harriet’s back! with another of her, my, our favorite family recipes! She made this one up and laughed when I asked her to write it out for 16-year-old me because she didn’t know what to call it.. “Gran’s Veg Delight” she proclaimed.. she thought that made the dish sound pretty special! It was.. it is! You’ve probably…
This sounds similar to chicken/turkey pot pie … an oh so comforting dish, bar none. I like that you added the herbs in the biscuits as well. As cooler fall air settles upon the Front Range, this is exactly the type of meal I long for — Mmm.
That looks incredibly filling for a veggie dish, but I could never resist a biscuit topping. Perfect for the cool temperatures we’re having in the big smoke.
We’ve got the same weather.. And overcast today. I love savory dishes!
Lovely comfort food! Perfect for an autumn meal.
This is the perfect warming belly food! I hear you on the iPhone pictures, I will go to every corner of the house trying to find that perfect lighting. Sometimes it’s just too dark!
I am saving this recipe! Yum! What a great way to use leftovers! Thanks Barbara!
Very delicious. The daylight thing is always a problem but I get used to changing how and when I shoot pictures.
Oh my gosh, that looks realllllly good!
Reblogged this on Yards To Grow Alliance.
Love all the ingredients here and the look of it is so appetizing – but I would love somebody to make for me, because this I will lose interest in before I’m halfway. What a pity. Done my bit of voting too. Have you changed layout ????
[...] Harriet’s Veg Delight with Savory Stuffing Biscuits. [...]
What an incredible way to welcome your cooler weather my friend this looks so awesome 
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Wow, these sound delicious. Great recipe!
This is a great winter-warming dish that just has everything in it and it wouldn’t need any sides at all. I can imagine myself getting up from the table to find myself a second helping of this. Our days are lovely and long now especially with daylight saving and it really does make the photography so much easier! xx
I thik this is delicious
Love this kind of food! I started off thinking it was a vegetarian dish so it wouldn’t be much use to us (Mick turns his nose up at “no meat”) but it isn’t. (I could’ve sneaked some turkey in anyway, couldn’t I?)
Oh dear, it’s that time of year when I eat and blame it on the cold! I’ve just had a bowl of strawberries and cream then a Kitkat while I was reading posts. Named and shamed!
Yes, yes, yes. Perfect for the chilly week we’re having. Delicious!
I love the way North America (and that does include Canada – I know the difference!) does biscuits – we call them scones – but the savoury variety sound so much better!
This sound like real comfort food for the cool and dark autumn nights. I love the idea of the biscuit topping. 
Oh, dear.. it truly is cold and dark out here.. raining and snowing all at once 
Hey!! You’ve had a great education:D I think we’re the British Education System as well, so I suspect I should know a fair bit of geography too.. if only I hadn’t skipped so many classes, lol! I haven’t visited you in a while.. on my way over!
I like the balance of vegetarian and regular dishes.. just for variety. I think one could make this one a vegetarian easily enough, but I just love turkey. Chicken would be great in this as well! The strawberries would have been a good place to stop.. but, like you, I would have plowed right on through the Kit Kat as well!! xx
Comfort written all over it. Great for a Fall supper.
I am book marking this one for our Thanksgiving celebration in November. That is one great thing about Canadian Thanksgiving coming around first as you get so scout all the yummy recipes posted and get some great ideas for your own feast. Take care, BAM
I voted for you, because you truly do deserve to win! What a great recipe. And this is the perfect season for making. Sounds like pure comfort 
.
Oh my goodness!
I was thinking.. I’m a bit late for us Canucks.. and way too early for you guys:)
I so enjoy a chicken pot pie, and this sounds like an even better version with the biscuit topping. I can just imagine the wonderfully comforting aroma while this is in the oven!
Love these family recipes The herbed biscuits sound delicious!
Comfort food at its finest!
“Gran” recipes are always the best Smidge. Wonder if they throw extra love in their recipes? Pity we can’t vote more than once for you.
Mandy xo
Oh boy, oh boy, does this look GOOD! What a great family recipe to have and make your own. I’m bookmarking this one. It has fall and winter written all over it!
This would be nice with some roast
Pure comfort food, and I’m making this as soon as the temperature drops into winter!
Beautiful and so delicious looking! Yum! I stay in Singapore, there’s no 4 seasons but it’s been raining quite often these days, time to make this for myself!
This looks killer! Perfect comfort food for the Fall.
So lovely and comforting. I want to put on a sweater.
Hi Smidge! This is a beautiful recipe
Delicious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This looks like comfort food! Such a good one pot meal too!
Wow, that is the ultimate veg pot pie! I have to bookmark this for when the really cold weather comes!!
one day I shall make biscuits to go with a roast meal I love the song you referenced!
YUM, warming and tasting just perfect for the change of seasons. And like you I struggle to take photos as the light changes, I really should have a play with some of the apps or photoshop!!
oops forgot to say, I’m off to vote !!
comfort food at its finest! LOVE your blog layout. i’ve been having a poke around. i’ve only just started getting back into my blogging. glad to have popped over x
Fall comfort food, my favorite!
Stuffing! Biscuits! Stuffing biscuits= I could die happy now. Two of my favorite things in one magical creation. Thanks for sharing.
Any idea what I could use to substitute for the bisto? I can’t wait to try this recipe!
Oh, what can I say except yum, yum and yum again! YUM!
I think any gravy packet would also add flavoring.. just sprinkle in to taste.. We have Club House brand here. Good luck!
Sounds like a wonderfully versatile dish. I love the biscuit top!
I am very glad I didn’t miss this recipe! This is my kind of dish, Barbara. This is the kind of food I grew up on, although you’ve given it a better twist with fresher ingredients than I think I was served. Our casseroles back then were a combination of prepared biscuit mix and canned vegetables! I look forward to making this soon. There’s nothing more special than a grandmother’s recipe…I miss both my grandmothers. Neither was an outstanding cook, but they prepared everything with love and it always tasted special! oxo
Here here to Harriet, lovely gran of our dreams! Scrumptious sounding for a dank and chilly, dark-too-soon autumn night’s dinner! xx
What a comforting dish this is! Love that it’s a family recipe.
You know, I’m pretty sure this started out with canned vegetables for sure.. then the chicken, etc.. I miss my gran.. and wish I had known my other gran for longer so I’d have more memories of her. xx
Great job, young lady!
I could do with a plate of this right now, it is chilly in my wee studio, .. c
This looks like the perfect fall, one pan meal. I just love these types of dishes in fall and winter. They are so hearty, filling and just down right make me happy.
This looks so comforting and cozy. Great to read more about your dear Gran. Thank you, Smidge.
This sounds delicious! Might have to do this for Thanksgiving…Canadian Thanksgiving first, and then ours!
Instagram is the new Pinterest, which was the new Twitter, which was the new Facebook, which was the new Email, which was the new Cellphone, which was the new Landline, which was the new Party Line.. which used to be the chat over the neighbors fence… I miss that fence! ♥ Blogging and Ebooks are…
I was drawn to both of these recipes as well…and you’ve married them so beautifully. I know without blogs, my life would be a lot less delicious.
I thought I was warping there for a moment having seen Linda’s Chilli Puttanesca. Your version is lovely as well! I agree while technology is grand, it is good to slow down sometimes and be analog. I love the tactile forms of media.
I think I might make that quite soon – excellent
I had whiplash there for a moment as I had seen Linda’s Chilli Puttanesca. I like your chicken version as well! I agree, the tactile media remains alluring in theis digital age.
Delicious pictures!
What a gorgeous dish! It looks so fresh and flavorful. My husband would love it. I might have to surprise him with it this weekend.
I miss the fence too. And I have yet to cave in and buy one of those silly electronic books. I can’t live without a bathtub and the feel of a real book in my hands every night!
~ April
They are such a wonderful place to visit, aren’t they?
All in moderation I guess.. I love the feel of a “real” book:D
On a rare occasion.. I get the sort of “accolades” from my family, this was one of them.. Sally really knows how to cook up an awesome dish.. I just added to it! I hope you try it!
Haha.. no whiplash.. just a shout-out to two of my favorite bloggers!
Every night.. now that sounds like a plan!
This is a dish for me .. the #1 chicken eater. So this will be something for next week. Your photos really talk to me .. and I can feel the smell coming through the screen .. that Herbs de Provence aroma – no sauce for me on this one … and no home made pasta either. Post will be done after production.
I am going to have to use my word again here… SCRUMITY!
Mandy xo
I still am clueless about Instagram and am just trying to stay afloat with the rest. Do not ask me about my texting skills though. Sigh…the fence days were good ones where we could share a casserole of goodness like this.
Hehe! Great post, Barbara! I use all those modern instruments you mentioned and I love them, my kindle allows me to read books in English and at good price, and I’m commenting right now from my smartphone (that’s why I can’t send you my links to fb, pint, Twitter…but I think you got them already
Loved the chicken, by the way
I so agree with you Barb on all this technology!! I just want to chat with friends over a cup of coffee and not be always available for instant access….but like you, when it comes to my kids and keeping in touch, I love it! You are definitely more advanced than I in knowing all this social media!
Thanks for the mention and love that it inspired you to come up with this amazing dish! You can bet I will be making this….while I bubble bath
What a fabulous recipe. I love those one dish meals! Its so difficult to keep up with all the new technology and social media. Or at least it is for me. I’m so not a type A, and truly love to linger over coffee and conversation or a good read. Keeping up with social media has challenged my very being. LOL!
<—–big smile from me on this entire post. I love that you can say so eloquently the things I feel Barb. It makes me so happy. I agree with you on everything. I love those warped pages books get in the bathtub, I have quite a collection of them, lol. I use the Kindle too, but there is nothing like the feel of a real book in my hands. It feels a lot better than my smartphone
The puttanesca looks very good. I like puttanesca, but I know I'll love this version, with chicken, a lot more than the tuna one I made last year. I'm so glad you shared this so I can try again! Thanks!
My Facebook is rather a small place these days. It got to be too much to keep up with so I downsized it from 200 people to about 17, and half of them are my bloggers, my first and true loves in the land of web technology. Here's my link though, I'd love to add you Barb: https://www.facebook.com/fadedhighwaystoo Note: It's my personal feed, and not a page.
OUT-standing! Wowza Smidge, that is one bee-utiful dish! We haven’t eaten chicken in quite some time…you’ve made my mouth water for it and I’m CER-tain to put this one on our table soon. It’s all those flavors we so love around this house and (I’m going to repeat myself, because friends can do that sort of thing) it’s BEAUTIFUL to look at! Ever since leaving childhood (just a “few” years back) I’ve not been such a fan of the legs, but i can do thighs so I think that’s the route we’ll go. I agree with your idea of adding the tomatoes and basil further into the cooking…or you could put most or all that’s called for in the beginning but throw in some fresh baby tomatoes and basil just a little prior to serving. Thanks so much for sharing this recipe! The olives in this dish are likely something I’m going to be dreaming about until finally I make it, so I spose I’d better get busy! Afterwards, I’ll see you at the fence and bring you some scones and jam! xx
(ps I’m pinning this recipe!)
First, let me land on Earth so I can comment on your post…. I started reading it and smiling, agreeing with everything you said, each remark so clever and to the point (as usual..) – but I was NOT prepared for the link to my blog, and almost passed out.
YOu are too sweet and honestly, you made my day! (I’ve been locked in my office working since early, avoiding all human contact not to have any distractions, but your email feed of a new post was too hard to resist, and I am soooo glad I didn’t!)
thank YOU!
(I will try your variation of the recipe, of course!)
I want to eat this now, Barbara! If I had chicken legs in the freezer I would be making it for lunch. This is a home run (Sorry. Baseball metaphor: the American sport).
Um, HELLO can we be best friends?
I clicked on your blog because the title is a phrase I often say and people think I’m weird.
But I think you’re amazing/reallycool.
And this looks scrumptious.
On to the rest of the blog now………………..see you later!
yournewBFFandfollower
xo
Nicole
http://www.hourglassandbloom.wordpress.com
Everything looks delicious, but I love that bowl of tomatoes!
I thank technology that I get to see your posts my friend, they are always so stunning
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Wow, I just ate chicken in Paris and this makes me hungry all over again!
Now this is my kind of recipe because it sounds both delicious and easy to make. Twitter, pininterst, instagram .. I sometimes wonder what will be the next big social media thing – I am sure someone in working on it as I type. I love the way I can make connections through my blog etc but I too miss that fence!
I’ve done a bit of house-keeping and am now following you on FB and Pinterest. Somehow I didn’t realise you were on all these social-media thingies. Great that your son is such a diligent worker and that restaurant sounds fabulous. This chicken dish looks amazing. I love how easy it is. I did a slow-roasted shoulder of lamb last night that took four hours to cook. It was so comforting knowing dinner was humming along while I could get on with so many other things. I love the bowl your tomatoes are in. And we have the same lemon squeezer xx
Oh heaven… I will be making this. There will be candles and lots of red wine. The end!
Thank you so much for this fabulous post: I better not be totally honest and admit to how little of all the media opportunities I have and/or use ! Or find time for!! Totally relate to Sarah re facebook – I managed to go from 2 to 750 ‘friends’ in less than a year, piked at the time I was not spending on all the other things I so loved, and simply closed the account ! And my phone is landline, often on message bank – selfish about ‘my choices’!!! And I live in a semi-rural community still very much on party line, [with some problems of that attendant!] And this recipe is so moreish it’s going to be cooked during the weekend for friends . . . thanks!
I love everything about this post, Barb. I’m not on Instagram and though I’m on Pinterest, it is more a recipe file than anything else. As for Facebook, I’m there but certainly don’t use it or post much to it. I’m hopeless! Like the stereotypical Grandpa, one morning I’m going to wake up and find my DVR’s clock blinking “12:00″ — and do nothing about it.
But I digress … This is one fantastic roasted chicken recipe. I love garlic, rosemary, and lemon with chicken. Adding the olives, basil, and capers bring a ton of flavor to the party and the tomatoes will help with the pasta. Like I said, fantastic! I’d be tempted to serve this over polenta but, either way, I don’t think I could go wrong. I definitely want to give this a try. I’ve a feeling I’ll be making it a few times in the months ahead. I’ll send you a tweet when I do. (Ha! Like that’s gonna happen. )
I haven’t gotten into the instagram thing yet…I feel like there are so many social media things to keep up with! BTW, this chicken dish looks incredible!
Would it still taste good if I remove the mozzarella? It sounds weird but I don’t eat cheese 
I love your photos! They sure make the food more appealing
I am too afraid to start pinning! Amazing how we have gone from the Stone Tablet to BlackBerry / Apple / HP Tablets Have a super weekend!
I love the before and after shots and think that would make a pretty yummy dish on its own … and then you suggest serving this over pasta which makes me think “why wouldn’t you?”. Simple and simply delicious. And oh my goodness you made me giggle with your opening paragraph
I agree–love technology but miss the personal touch.
Absolutely! It was lovely even without the cheese:D Thank you!
ma che buono! was so surprised to read an Italian title. wonderfully prepared! and I am a total techno ignorant and have no idea on how to use most of the stuff you listed
Oh, this dish is absolutely dreamy! I can only imagine the fabulous aromas coming from your kitchen that night. I pictured being waited on by my “lazy” son in a restaurant and a big grin came across my face. I can only imagine what that feels like but so glad you have experienced it. I am so lost in this technological world…not on instagram yet and gave up on FB long ago. I barely can update my blog posts and attach photos. You are quite the tech savvy blogger.
Smidge, I love your thoughts to open this lovely post. I do miss the good ol’ days, but I’m thankful for the new ol’ days too. Good in both, to be sure. This recipe looks like a great one for our family. Those tomatoes in the bowl are absolutely beautiful!
If you have to lose the fence to meet folks and get awesome pics and recipes like this one, i think the trade is a good fair one
Beautiful (and scrumptious!) post, as always
Oh Smidge a great post! There are so many things to do – FB, Pinterest, twitter, and in there we need to make time to sit down with our loved ones and cook a meal and chat! I’m sure th edish is delic! And you have reminded me that I had a post about Pinterest in my head but haven’t done anything about it …… I think I’ll put the kettle on first
Loving that trek through the technology ages!! And I’m also imagining this delightful dish being pulled out of my oven on a cool fall night. So I’ve pinned it. Because Pinterest is the new printer which replaced old recipe cards.
The roasted chicken looks delicious and certainly is easy to put together. I can use a few of last tomatoes coming from my garden.
Your photos are gorgeous. I’m so glad we’ve moved beyond the stone tablet. You’re right this is perfect for a fall evening … I’m bookmarking it!
I certainly love all the connections we can make and the way that leads to recipes and kitchen adventures being born! This looks like a wonderful fall dish, can’t wait!
I love Linda and Sally’s blogs and I think you did a beautiful job combining the recipes.
I know that this chicken dish will be an instant hit in my house and I will be making it soon for sure!
Loved reading about the technology maze we are in..I find it hard to keep up with it all but I know one thing for sure..without blogging I would not have “met” wonderfully talented and inspiring people like you Barbara
It would be hard to live without phone, internet and camera. Just imagine how are we going to share our lovely creations like your post when we dont have it.
Your chicken recipe look so divine, that I wish I could go through this PC screen right now. I actually don’t think its fair that i can’t do that LOL. I love this smidge
Really, I’ve yet to keep up with it all…. not sure if and/or when I will.
I love this combo of capers, garlic, olives, tomato… thyme, basil and use it also on fish. Your chicken is looking perfectly browned.
It would be impossible for me to live without technology – I am obsessed with it. I love this dish by the way, beautiful and hearty!
Wow, I can certainly see why this recipe “haunted” you via the airwaves, or microwaves, or whatever they are. All my favorite ingredients rolled into one magnificent dish! My problem with progressive technology is that I still like all the previous forms of communicating, drawing, reading, etc., too, and trying to do them all is quite time consuming.
Utterly beautiful! Love your pics as always and I often wish I had a fence of which to chat with like minded folk too beautiful sentiments, food and more!
[...] Saturday evening was it time for me to try Barbara’s@justasmidgen - as she call it “Roasted Puttanesca Chicken” aka “Arrosto Pollo di Puttanesca”. It landed in my inbox a couple weeks ago and another recipe that talked to me straight away. A [...]
[...] girlfriend visit from Gothenburg … and it was time for some serious cooking. One evening I did Barbara’s Roasted Putanesca Chicken - and as dessert I served this fresh and spicy dessert. My friend she doesn’t like pineapple, so [...]
[...] And to finish.. [...]
I talk to myself… (quite often in fact) with assorted random instructions, reassurances, quiet reminders, admonishments and encouragements …and the occasional boisterous song thrown in for good measure. ♥ I find it particularly useful when I’m trying to decipher a music theory question: “I knew I should have (insert here: listened, studied, practiced.. written down every…
Wonderful herbed pate and photographs. Love the knife too
THIS is my new favorite post of yours. ANd that is a huge compliment, because this post has heavy competition, my dear.
loved it. I can relate so well to so many aspects of it. The time I ruined a recipe made to my first husband because my English was not good enough to understand that small t meant teaspoon and not tablespoon, and that is a huge difference in cinnamon amount for moussaka
that evening was ruined, because I allowed him to ruin it. But today I laugh about it, and my forever husband eats with a smile my worst culinary mistakes..
WOW! Before the real taste it is a great feast for my eyes… So beautiful dear Barbara, I haven’t known this recipe… seems so delicious but fascinated me your presentation as always… Thank you, with my love, nia
Kind of you to include the single malt, Smidge — I’ll just have that while the rest of you eat pate and clean the ceiling.
Wow! I love chicken liver pate but this is very interesting with the single malt. By the way, Oban is a lovely Scottish town. Been there way back in 1998.
Hmph to the ex – never more will he enjoy your music, your photographs, your poetry and your beautiful cooking! Lovely recipe…I often put brandy in my paté but am looking forward to giving it a go! Had to chuckle at you saying you are part “Scotch”…if you have any readers from that beautiful country they will flap their hands and say “och Miss McSmidge, only the whisky is Scotch, the people are Scottish” and then invite you to partake of a wee dram of their beautiful single malt
Such a funny story! I am glad he is expunged.
Love your new spring header…I want a slice of that cake!
Oh, this is truly decadent and fine. I am so glad for you that you are free of that tyranny and are courageous enough to follow your own dreams and your heart. I love coming here Smidge and I think everyone can relate to coming into “themselves” at some later date in life. It feels so good to be finally in one’s own skin. Thank you also for your words of encouragement no my blog. It really does mean so much. I am trying so hard to make gluten free delightful and not a sentence and as a seventeen-year-old, my son doesn’t seem to really notice my Herculean efforts so really, thank you.
OK, before I even READ your recipe or pour over your always lovely photos, I have to tell you, my husband’s very favorite is Oban! Leave it to you Smidge to ring his chimes! Now, I’m headed back to the post.
Ah, gorgeous photos, as always! Love the first shot. Sorry to hear about your ex, but you are clearly much better off without him. No one should ever bring you down like that. You are such a strong and talented woman…you deserve much, much better! xx
OK, now that I’ve read it I could go on and on with comments but will try to contain myself. First of all, I don’t even know if I like pate. (generally I’m not an organ girl. organist?) And yet you’ve convinced me to give it a go. Second, May that fussy and oh-so-ungracious Valdemort find pate in his lap and on his tight little tie one day for making pate on your face all about HIM! Third, and yes I do wish the new sagacious self could have whispered a thing or two into mousey’s ear, but it was all the mistakes mousey made that eventually gave birth to wisdom so I just thank her for all the sacrifices she made and humble pie she ate! She was a dear really.
Thanks.. I’m pleased to have found a single knife and not been forced to buy a whole set!
Wow, Sally, this is just sweet of a compliment. I love that your husband is called your “forever” husband.. That is just awesome!! Xoxo Smidge
Thanks nia.. It is delicious, I’m so glad you liked it!
Hahaha, I’ll pour you a double..
I talk to myself all the time – it’s a habit that’s hard to kick. I used to make chicken liver pate many moons ago maybe it’s time to make another batch with a simdge or two of Oban single malt added to the mix. The food styling in your images is always gorgeous.
I thought it was an actual town.. Might just have to plan a wee holiday!!
Hahaha, I love this.. I wasn’t sure if Scotch was correct.. Being only part “Scottish” I wouldn’t know;) Yes.. The ex..he also thought I couldn’t write and used to laugh at my writing, gotta figure he was just jealous of so much talent;)
Hey thanks.. You’re the first to notice!! Yes, I almost typed “ex-sponged” hahaha!
It’s funny, you think they don’t notice.. But one day they will. My son (as you may recall) moved out for a short time and lived in another home. He said her cooking was great, but not like mine… And he loves that I cook every day. So… In time, I know he will reflect back and tell you how amazing you are. It’s easy for us to see how much work goes into what you’ve done because we cook. I couldn’t imagine trying to convert my recipes like you’ve done! Xoxo Smidge
Glad you´re laughing – after I hit “reply” I wondered if it sounded rude 
Exes are good for helping us realise our true potential…eventually!
Haha, guess who gave me the bottle of scotch when I said that I needed one??
That was so long ago.. Who knows what makes men think they need to be so oppressive?? It’s awesome growing up and become stronger:) Thanks, Caroline! xoxo
Oh, boy. I’ve ruined some stuff in my own cooking adventures, too. Glad this time it worked out! And I love the new header images. A happy, peaceful, clean-ceilinged day to you!
Oh, wise spree, you’ve got to the point straight away.. Yes”, the humble pie and mistakes are what gives us the wisdom we need. Love.. The pate on his tight little tie” heehee
Yes.. It’s only a little worrisome when someone else notices the chatter;)
Hahaha, and to you as well! Thanks.. I like having a seasonal header and thought this looked “springy”!
That looks so appetizing! And the pictures are so High Quality!
I talk to myself all the time too. I have no doubt my children think I’m crazy at times. I just tell them to just wait, we come from a long line of “crazy” women that talk to themselves. The pate looks delicious and I too am happy you are free of such a critical overbearing person in your life. (Incidentally, my sister calls her ex Voledemort too.)
I always enjoy hearing pieces of the lives behind the posts. We all have stories with difficult past references, and sharing elements of those histories gives us a richer context with which to appreciate accomplishments today. From humiliation to confidence is a wonderful swing, and I’m so glad you let me peek at that emotionally painful explosion all over the ceiling and self! You have so much creativity–and now I know you also have wonderful resilience. So good to celebrate that! Debra
I must admit I talk to myself all the time too! Do you think it is a kitchen thing?
And I don’t think you need to worry about pate disasters ever again – it looks perfect
And beautiful presentation!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
We’ve had non-stop sun for the past 5 days… I’m burnt, peeling and uncomfortable to a certain extent, but I’m loving it! This is a really awesome idea, it must taste nom – a nice departure from the usual suspect, brandy.
That was a funny story about your old condo. I also like your pate recipe.
This looks amazing, Smidge. And I find that giving yourself a pep talk in the kitchen always helps! Whether it’s after you drop a sheet tray on your foot or spill peppercorns all over the floor haha. I love the story
Oh, Smidge! I cannot imagine you living in the shadow of that mope. Good riddance to bad rubbish! I did chuckle over the open blender mess. I once fell asleep with eggs boiling on the stove. I woke up when they exploded and I bet there’s still eggshell imbedded in that kitchen’s wall and ceiling! Your pâté sounds delicious and, once again, your photos make it look so very appetizing. Without exception, your posts are always a joy to read.
That is a great pun! Hahaha!
You know, I think it is a kitchen thing!xo Smidge
Oh, boy, sounds like you’ve done some of that as well:)
Wow.. Soo lucky!! High awesome to actually have a suntan, um, burn!!
Oh, my godness… You must have thought you were being bombed!! What a mess that must have been.. Sorry, but it made me smile just thinking about it..
Oh, what a story. Yes, it would be so good to be able to go back in time and bite back at all the people who put us down! I make my pate in a food processor rather than a blender. The good thing about food processors is that they can’t be turned on unless the lid is firmly cemented in place. And I love your new banner images. xx
That’s exactly what I did this time.. I don’t think I had a food processor back then:) Thanks for your compliment:) I thought it looked springy! xoxo
well we all know who I talk to all day!!! and i think that I married that fella of yours about two husbands ago! I lover pate and I have never made it. yours looks good enough, to make me brave enough, to try it! have a lovely evening.. c
I would love to try this recipe, I’ve never made pate either. I do love it though, and this recipe with the malt whiskey sounds downright wonderful Smidge! Weekend recipe for me to try? I hope!! Too funny that the stain was still on the ceiling all that time later. LOL!
Your ex sounds exactly like mine! They’re good practice. For what I don’t know. Would we appreciate our true loves as much if we didn’t go through those Voldemorts?
P.S. Smidge, i keep forgetting to mention how much I LOVE your new header pictures. So pretty! That ribbon cake…..swoon!
Hahaha.. I love.. Well, your sense of humor and just about everything about you c:) xo Smidge
If you love pate, you should make it.. Any sort of pate, I was kind of shocked at how easy it is. It always seemed so mysterious and “french” looking! Ha! Yes.. Voldemorts abound, don’t they?? Xo Smidge
Thanks, Sarah.. That was a fun one to make!
Meat, booze and bread. I think this is the perfect recipe.
Okay, you have definitely taught me something new today Barbara. I never heard of whiskey pate before ever. I can’t wait to show this post to my mom
It’s such a great sipping whisky..
Hahaha, for a second I thought it read “man, booze, bread”.. not far off, eh??
That would be more up Katherine’s alley!
Hi Smidge! I love Single Malt Scotch and so looking forward to making this! By the way… I was awarded the ABC (Awesome Blog Content) Award and have now passed it along to you. Your blog is incredible, and might I say “totally awesome”.
.. and mine:)
You’re so sweet.. thank you so much! There are so many awards going around, I find I forget to post a response! So I want to make sure I thank you here “in person” first:) It’s really do thoughtful of you!
You are so very welcome! I completely enjoy your posts. There are so many blogs to read, I can’t get to all of them. So I reserve a little time for my favorites.
I caught spree peeking at your post and saw the Oban Pâté in the headline and asked her to pahleez tell me more about that. When she told me it was Smidge I had to look for myself. The pic is beautiful and the story could have been me , when Spree wasn’t looking
( save for the Valdemort thing, thats usually my part). Love everything about the post!
I was snooping around the kitchen and spied the lovely Spree reading a blog post with Oban Pâté! When she told me it was Smidge I had to check it out. The pic is beautiful and the story, well it struck me as something I would do when Spree wasn’t around ( cept for the Valdemort part, thats usually me). Loved everything about the post , thanks.
Ever since I became an attorney, I’ve grown a fondness for single malt scotch. Great idea to use it in pate!
I love all kind of paté..but I never thought herb paté exist..;-) I should try this definitely! Thank you for sharing! I’m impressed on all your posts. You are soo artistic!
Yay another “talk-to-myslef” person to add to the family – we are a special breed I will have you know!
So pleased you have moved past having a horrible person in your life. Kudos to being so strong.
Brilliant pate recipe – think I shall make it for my hubby when he gets home next week.
Mandy xo
How wonderful!
Good for you for revisiting this recipe! (And I’ve had a blender moment or two just like that…) And I freely admit that I talk to myself all the time. Hubs totally makes fun of me for it – can’t wait for the time it totally embarrases my boys.
This story brings to mind a culinary disaster at home with Ma and Pa. Mum was preparing a dinner party with something like apricot sponge with brandy cream for dessert. Foolishly she asked Dad to whisk the cream. So he did. We were all milling around with him in the corner with the whisk. ‘Should it look like this?’ he asked. ‘Like what?’. ‘This’. We looked. It had separated completely. So then after a mild fit of hysterics she decided to make brandy butter. By this time everyone was on the brandy and in a melodramtic motion she pulled the baked apricot pudding out of the oven and accidently threw/dropped it all over the floor.
But by then it didn’t really matter – the guests were plastered and no one cared.
Is that your balcony? Lovely!
I see nothing wrong in talking to yourself as long as you don’t answer.:-). I loved your post today. It struck several resonant chords. This is my first visit to your site, so I took some time to browse around. I’m so glad I did that. You’ve created a great spot to visit and I enjoyed the time I spent here. I’ll definitely be back. I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Blessings…Mary
I don’t blame you for talking to yourself; you rock!
Great post – and new Gravatar pic, as well!
I’m late getting out to read this week, and I sure am glad I didn’t miss this post! What an awful date that would admonish you under such circumstances…so glad you booted him. And what beautiful pate this is…it sounds divine with the Oban added to it. Yum!
Thanks so much, Kim, I really enjoy photography!
Hahaha, love that.. I bet you’ve got a long line of masterful chefs/bakers as well! Hilarious that your sister had one of those “who shall not be named”!
I am so pleased with your comments today, Debra.. you’ve really reached to the essence of what I was going for.. how those histories give us an appreciation for the beautiful of today. Really, that is my whole blog’s purpose, I guess:) xoxo Smidge
I know! My son went there for a sleep-over and when we went to pick him up it was really strange as we approached the place and realized where we were!
Well, hello there Mr. Grateful Guinea Pig of spree’s:) I am so pleased you came by and felt moved to leave such a lovely comment.. it made my day. And so did your lovely Gravatar portrait! Very endearing, indeed! I wish you better luck with your blender (when spree’s not overseeing things).. if you’re watching her, you will turn into a splendid chef, the world’s first Guinea Pig Chef! xo Smidge
That’s so cool.. I didn’t know you were an attorney! Then single malt scotch is definitely in order for you!! xo Smidge
Well, then I’m really glad you’ve come by to see this recipe. Thanks so much for your compliments:) xo Smidge
Ahhh, so I’ve become a member of an exclusive club, then? How absolutely delightful! I couldn’t be more pleased to join you!! xoxo Smidge
Thank you!
I think blenders are just a poor design:) It has nothing to do with the skill of the person running the machine! Must have been designed by a man! xo Smidge
That is an epic story.. of such proportions that I think you must reinvent the brandy with the apricot pudding and post it for everyone to see! I love that everyone was too plastered to care! It must have been quite the scene and laugh! xo Smidge
I like to sit and work there (on warm days.. with a blanket these days!!) xo Smidge
I’m so glad you have Mary!! I love meeting new people and will make sure to read your posts in the future! Cheers to a happy connection!! xo Smidge
Hahaha… for those of you reading my comment section.. The Hook is awesome as well.. you should check out his blog and look for his new book coming out! It will be a great read indeed!!! xo Smidge (and thank you!)
And I continue to boot to this day! Boot, boot, boot, anyone who isn’t kind or thoughtful to either myself or those I love:) Thanks so much, Betsy! xoxo Smidge
As a vegetarian, I’ll skip the pate (until I’m creative enough to figure out how to convert the livers to walnuts), but I will gladly have a sip or two or more of the Oban Single Malt Scotch.
Oban on it’s own is definitely doable:) I’d love to see you do something with walnuts! Way cool!!
Smidge, I love pate, but I’ve never ever tried making my own. Yours looks perfectly rustically elegant in the glass jars with string! I like that you didn’t add cream to it! Must put it on the bucket list..
xoxo
Hi ,
This looks wonderful. Never had pate before but would love to try this.
Lots of single malts on the shelf. I think there is a bottle of Oban among them. Caol Isla is my favorite. And I loooooooovvvvvvveeeee paté. We made a country terrine at Christmas, but a smooth paté remains my favorite style.
You are such a brave cook. I have a terrible pate storie and though I pride myself on trying any food…I’m not sure I can ever try it again (food poisoning)…BUT…I still love to read your recipes and stories!!! And it looks great!
Oh, that has to be the worst!! I’m sorry to hear that.. I don’t think I’d recommend trying this one then.. Kind of like my relationship with calamari… xo
To make a long story short, it was actually my mom who got the poisoning, but I was with her and we were in Paris…all in my mind as a bad, bad thing!
But no.. not in Paris!! Your poor mom!! Poor you!!
Perhaps it deserves a blog post!!!
Ha – as a Scot, consider me flapping my hands and saying ‘och!’. But only a little I talk to myself often – probably more often than I realise! I’m also lucky enough to live near enough Oban, it’s a really pretty town.
Hilarious!! Lucky you!!! Near Oban itself.. What a dream!!
What a funny story and what a disastrous start to the new year ! I hope the rest of the evening went better ! And I think I will have to make this pate – it looks so good.
My memory of the rest of the evening is a bit fuzzy.. it was so long ago, but I’m sure my friends rallied! I love this pate!
Haaaave you met Stanley… Poor little Stanley Lambchop was smashed flat one night by a bulletin board that his mother hung over his bed… This engaging children’s book tells of Flat Stanley’s adventures as he was subsequently (and conveniently) then folded and mailed in an envelope. Schools all over the world took up the “Flat…
Ruthie’s little legs must have been churning to keep up with YOU, Smidge! I predict she’s headed for a spa next, as well she should be! But that smile never left her face, so she clearly enjoyed your company (as well she should have.) what fun!
A day like that…Ruthie shouldn’t complain! Looks like a wonderful day!
PS – I got a bit side tracked clicking over to the pancake recipe – Good Lord…I’m in heaven!
I have met with them all now… What a beautiful and lovely post, dear Barbara, I fall in love… Fascinated so much… Thank you. How creative you are too. I can’t find exact or enough words to explain my feelings… With my love, nia
This was just too cute Smidge. I know the book well. We had a Flat Stanley with us this summer. I like that you took little Ruthie on a an “ordinary” day. And that soup looks perfect for healing.
My six-year old just loves the Flat Stanley books. I hadn’t heard about Flat Ruthie. I am lying in bed but am worn out from reading your day with Ruthie. You don’t think perhaps Ruthie was happy to move on to somewhere less fast-paced? I’m sure you wore her out.
Sounds like a very busy day!
That also looks like a very interesting blog you & Ruthie were reading there.
Hahaha, it’s quite a visual image you gave me here:) Spree, I think we should be headed for a Spa.. how quickly we forget the relaxation over Christmas!!
That’s a very dangerous recipe.. approach with caution!!
Thank you kindly, nia.. It was a fun one to write up… only because of Ruth’s imaginative idea! xo Smidge
I thought some of you might have heard of him. The book came out in 1960′s and has been a mainstay of the Elementary classroom ever since! I’m glad you had one over the summer! That would have been interesting and fun!!
It was fun teaching, to be able to send projects like this around was a lot of fun!! I’m sure Ruthie has lots more fun in store for her!
Hahaha, absolutely that is your blog!! I sure enjoyed reading that one!! Too cute that you spotted it!!
Fabulous what Flat Ruthie can get done in a day
Yay! Flat Stanley! A favorite. Flat Ruthie is surprisingly three-dimensional for a cardboard person–so sociable and active. I can’t believe the pace she kept up through such an intense, long day. Oh, I mean *you* of course! Superwoman must be *your* stunt double. Good heavens!
A very fun, very full post. Outstanding!
xoxo!
I love Flat Stanley! When I was teaching, I had my fifth graders AND first graders (different years) do Flat Stanley. The kids loved seeing what their little flat person was up to. So fun, also, to get a real glimpse of one of your typical days.
Wow! What a great day! Will put the link to your wonderful post on the http://cardboardmetravels blog. Thanks, Smidge! You made it fun. Hope “she” wasn’t too much trouble. I love how you introduced her with Cousin Stanley first.
[...] favorite blogger, Just a Smidgen posted a delicious Chicken Soup with Stars recipe this afternoon. Read this post to see what [...]
Great post, Smidge! That Flat Ruthie sure does get around! I know she’s been seen in Arkansas and she & I have been discussing what to do while she’s here in Chi-Town. I hope you’ve not tired her too much. Thank goodness you fed her such a hearty chicken soup. After a bowl or two of that — ok, maybe just a spoonful or two — she’s ready for anything this CIty of Big Shoulders has to offer.
By the way, Smidge, I’ve tagged you for the 10 Question Quiz. Drop by my place for the details. (I don’t want to hijack your comments section.)
I was certain you, of all people, would know who Flat Stanley was:) I think I have a Superwoman costume in the house somewhere, perhaps I shall wear it for my next post:P Thanks, Kathryn!! Xo Smidge
It really is a neat project.. One of the highlights of teaching, for sure! Thanks so much!! Xo Smidge
Great looking soup! Love the stars And what a fun little adventure you took Ruthie on! I was sent Flat Stanley about 10 years ago, from my cousin, so he got to go to high school with me and everything! It’s a fun project, for sure
Oh… If only I could tag along with Ruthie.. I imagine it will be so much fun! I’ve never been to Chicago and I know she’ll well fed!! I’ll take a look at the 10 Questions… Thank you!! Xo Smidge
I’m please so many people know about Flat Stanley.. I knew him through teaching, but apparently lots of students did as well, which is just awesome!! Xo Smidge
LOL this post was so entertaining! I love the recipe too. I just ate dinner but would gladly eat a bowl of that soup!
It’s pretty healthy for sure and there’s always room for a teensy bowl of soup, isn’t there!? Glad you had a good laugh! Xo Smidge
You’re so welcome, Ruth.. it was lots of fun!
xo Smidge
Hilarious Flat Ruthie! Love it! How fun that you got to work together on this!
It was fun For Ruth and I and flat Ruthie was a good sport;)
Sent from my iPhone
What a fun post! Never heard of Stanley or Ruthie before, but they seem like a lot of fun!
It’s a children’s book… An old, old book:) and Flat Ruthie is a blogger’s spin on the book! Glad you enjoyed it!
Flat Stanley visited me once (and I took him round Dubai). Sent him off to the states and never heard another word…often wonder what happened to him! Love flat Ruthie – she must be flat-out after such a busy day
I can imagine Dubai.. how lucky Flat Stanley was!! Flat Ruthie can rest while she’s in the mail, lol!
Me and Ruth can totally hang out.. you know why? She asked “Where’s the chocolate?” LOL. Gotta love that. And I do love the little star pasta. I’ve never seen that before.. I certainly have to find it. And that soup just look amazing. Loved having Ruth on this post
I think that Flat Ruthie has the right idea; she watches while you spin yourself into a tizzy and work yourself to the bone. Lovely post and exquisite looking soup!
Brilliant post – so clever! What a fun day you had together Love the soup too – could just eat a bowl full now.
What a fun post! Yay for Flat Ruth’s visit – you two certainly did have a busy day together.
LOVE your soup.
Mandy
I think this is my favorite post of yours ever! You were terribly creative and I am so impressed how you brought Ruthie EVERYWHERE! Even spin class. Your soup looks like it would help get anyone better. Yum! Thanks for letting us take a peek into your life. This flat Ruthie idea is INGENIOUS! I will visit her blog next to tell her. So F-U-N.
What an absolutely fun post. Anyone who reads it will never think that you sit home all day just eating bonbons. I agree…I think the two of you should be off to a spa now. Your soup sounds wonderful, by the way.
I love Flat Stanley. Flat Ruth is the best one I’ve seen.
When I was in fourth grade, we did a Flat Stanley project. I was so obsessed with him, even after the project was over, I kept carrying him around in a little manilla folder suitcase I had made. I even took him to Mexico. I’m glad you had a fun time with your Flat Ruthie.
I’m exhausted after reading about your and Ruthie’s charming adventures on such a busy day! I need some of that great-looking starry soup, now. This was such a fun and creative post, definitely showcasing your talent for storytelling as well as cooking, and I really enjoyed reading. Ruthie will have so much to tell her family when she gets home! I’ve tagged you in my last post for the Food Blogger’s Unplugged Award, BTW, and look forward to your answers if you choose to accept. Cheers!
Whew, I got tired right along with Ruthie!! What a fun post and fun day you two had!! A big bowl of soup was the perfect thing for your busy day! I love using the little stars in soup, especially chicken soup.
What a great day! I’m sure Ruthie had a blast!
Tremendous fun, I loved this
Absolutely fabulous!!!!!
I LOVE this post! It’s so much fun!
And now I know how all the Jennifers and Johns feel, lol. Another Ruth(ie) is not a common occurence! ~Ruth
I’m out of breath just reading about everything you’ve done today! Great blog!
Flat Stan – what a great idea. I enjoyed reading your adventures with Flat Ruthie.
Inspired concept! Well done!
[...] Just a Smidgen’s Flat Stanley? No, It’s Flat Ruthie’s Chicken Soup for Stars: No, it’s not this Ruthie. Barbara and her wordpress alter ego “Smidge” have got to be one of the most creative blogs out there. Check out “Flat Ruthie’s” trip around Calgary with Smidge which ends with a fantastic looking bowl of chicken soup. [...]
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
well, harumph! my mother was born in Canada, but I don’t ‘spose that makes a hill of beans bit of difference. Rules are rules and I know you guys up north are sticklers for doing things rightly, rule-fully!
I’ll look for sure, but in case I never do find Blue Dragon, let me just say that your photos are Scrumptious and Mouth-watering and the Blue Dragon folks were exceedingly smart to contact you and I love this whole idea of a healthy way to put a meal on the table in 15 minutes and a sauce with the power to transport us to another continent altogether (where perhaps they aren’t such sticklers for RULES!)
Loved the post, friend! xx
Blue Dragon, is a massive brand over here too … use their products all the time .. when I do Asian food. Fantastic products. They have been around in Sweden for nearly 15 years now and just get more and more products on the shelves. Expanding their range.
Happy Winner, I wouldn’t mind to win … but outside Canada.
I usually resort to salads because I can make it and eat it out of the same bowl! This, I supposed I could dirty a bowl & a wok! Yum.
a veggie pizza with low fat cheese
Vegetable stir-fry with teriyaki tofu and noodles
Bless you, Barbara. We all need quick(er) foods on occasion. I will be on the lookout for Blue Dragon in the U.S. — perhaps it will drift down from Western Canada eventually. Your stir-fry looks beautiful: I would eat it for lunch if I could eat from the screen.
Sharyn Dimmick recently posted…February Transformation: Life to Death and Sweet Potato Pancakes
I make a rice stir fry with veggies and shrimp
General tao chicken with vegetable rice
My favourite easy dish has to be stir-fry, so versatile and quick
My go-to quick dinner is cooked hamburger with a cup of minute rice and some diced onions & tomatoes. A quick meal for us!
Thank you.
I would love to try some of these products they look delicious!
I love stir-fry! It’s a well balanced meal and usually has leftovers for the next day
I adore Green Thai Curry Shrimp! I would be in Heaven if I won this Basket! All of my Favorites. Thanks for the opportunity!
baked chicken ,white rice and brussels sprouts
We love making chicken stir-fry’s! They r the best! Lot’s of veggies!
We make naan pizzas they are indivdual sizes and you can personalize them.We love useing fresh ingrediants from the farmers market We add a size salad or cut up fresh veggies with them.
Beef and vegetable stew in a slow cooker
I like to stir fry some onions and meat. That’s quick and easy! With orient tastes, it just can be much better
My favorite fast and healthy dish is turkey stirfry.
This stir fry looks absolutely incredible my friend, I wish I could take part in the giveaway but good luck to all who do
Cheers
CCU
CCU recently posted…Guest Post #3: Homemade Lemon Curd
We usually have a pasta dish .
We all have those crazy busy occasions. Your stir-fries look yummy. Sorry I cannot participate in your give away.
Chicken, peppers and tomato sauce
Given that these have real ingredients in them I would buy them
Well, I may not be able to enter but the Blue Dragon people sure picked the right blog to feature their products. Your photos look like they’ve been professionally shot, Barb, and that final picture of the stir fry looks delicious. Well done all way ’round, I’d say.
ChgoJohn recently posted…Spaghetti with White Anchovies & Capers
[...] You’re not too late for the Blue Dragon Canadian Giveaway.. if you [...]
Hi Smidge, There are many days we all need a break and a dinner on the table in 15 minutes or less is just the perfect ticket. Please ignore my entry. I just tried to better understand the link functionality on the box. Take Care, BAM
Bam’s Kitchen recently posted…Sakura Grenadine Granita with Coconut Cream
I love the no MSG and low sodium in these ! Living in Singapore I have the convenience of easy-to-get Asian food, but it’s hawker style, so lots of salt, sugar, oil – I call it Asian junk food (although I still do love it it’s a treat for me) but the healthy and quick option would be a terrific thing from Blue Dragon. Hope you get more range in Canada !
Carolyn Chan recently posted…Bar Alfalfa, Seville, Spain
Yes, they’re really popular and easily availabkle here. Very tasy too! Hope the lucky winner enjoys their prize
Chica Andaluza recently posted…Pan Fried Sea Bream with Asian Style Noodles
I absolutely love making stir fry! Yum yum. This looks fantastic!
Blue Dragon has an a-1 line of products,which is used alot in my house.From entertaining friends, or a Saturday night sit down dinner with family. Blue Dragon is served on these occasions, thanks for great tasting products!!
chicken rice
I do love stir fry, it’s great because you can use whatever is available! Brown rice makes it that much healthier too!
I love stirfry! Its easy and fun, and something that my daughter just loves. It would be a great prize to win for those nights that just don’t seem to have enough time in them.
You’re a great mom, teaching your daughter one of the best quick dinners.. stirfry is a standby in our kitchen too, Marion!
I love just putting a veggie/fruit/meat tray together and nibbling
First of all Barb, your new site looks great. It wasn’t turning up in my WP reader so I’ve gone looking for you!
I try to avoid processed foods, but sometimes we all need a little help in the kitchen. If you say these Blue Dragon products are great, then I know they are! And, how refreshing to find a contest for Canadians! Mar
Marlene (aka Musing Mar) recently posted…From My Mother’s Kitchen ❤ Butter Horns
And by the way, lately my go-to quick and healthy dinner has been Red Lentil Dahl, but I must say, you’ve got me hankering for a stir fry!
We just picked up some Blue Dragon stir fry mix at the grocery store – like, minutes ago! Can’t wait to try it…
I love cooking stir fry meals with lots of veggies and Chinese cooking is great fun!
We’ll have chicken and rice-fast and simple.
Barb, This looks delicious. I wish it were available in the US, but who knows, it might be down the line. Your philosophy runs similar to mine in that I often would love to make something quick and delicious, that makes me feel like I’ve been able to “dine out” without the hassle of getting out! Plus, I can control the cooking methods, which makes a healthier choice.
Bear with me as I try to figure out why I am not getting your posts or alerts. I think I’m going to need to get help from the WP wizards, but something isn’t coming together just right. We’ll get there eventually!
Debra recently posted…Pasadena’s Arlington Garden…an excellent weekend’s exhale
Besides stir fry which is the obvious answer, I love a nice chicken caesar salad!
You got some nice stir fry over there.
Raymund recently posted…Vegetable Manchurian
Blue Dragon needs to get with the program and start selling down here in the states.
Jed Gray (sportsglutton) recently posted…Monday Morning Humor
Stir fry and chicken rice is a favorite in my house!