Facing my culinary fears...

Today was full of "first times." So why not continue on with the theme? I found a stir-fry recipe in my Cooks Illustrated Light recipe, that called for a mix of tofu, shiitake mushrooms, napa cabbage, and a hot-sour sauce. How's that for first times? :D

I think mushrooms are one of those things that you either love or hate. I happen to love them, and shiitakes are one of my favorites for their creamy/soft/velvety texture. Not to mention how cute and fuzy they are...:D

The meal came together...I was a bit skeptical. Tofu has always struck me as one of those things that people joke about. "As long as she doesn't start eating tofu, we'll be all set..." is a comment I've heard more times then one from family members, accompanied by a light-hearted laugh. I always laughed along with them, until, finally, today I decided that maybe I should give it a try. How can I say it's disgusting and strange if I never gave it a try?

Not to say all recipes are good or bad, but judging upon this particular recipe? I love tofu! To think I'd ever hear myself saying that...ha! It was so tasty and light, and kept me full and content for hours. It mixe great with the veggies and sauce, and would have been even better on top of a bed of noodles or rice. BUT, I was much too excited over the fact I had conquered my "tofu phobia" to think about cooking some, so chose a slice of wholegrain bread instead. Too yummy...:)

Another "first time" today was this pumpkin apple butter I tried. I got the basic recipe from Libby's pumpkin's website, but made some changes. It's SO easy to make and taste GREAT on homemade bread...I think it'd also be great in oatmeal, yogurt, cornbread, muffins, waffles, etc...

Quick and simple to make: 1 can pumpkin, 1 medium apple shredded, 2 T. brown sugar, 1 cup apple juice, 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice...combine all these ingredients, bring to a boil, and simmer on low for 1 to 1-1/2 hours. DELISH! :D