Recipe Resource: September 2008

Growing up, my family's schedule seemed to revolve around mealtime. I have to attribute my love for home cooked food to my mother. She didn't believe in cereal and made us breakfast every morning. I think that deserves some kind of award. Pancakes were my favorite breakfast growing up and my mom made hers from scratch. To be honest, I didn't know you could buy pancake mix at the store until I went to college. I don't claim to be a fabulous cook. I just wanted a place to keep and share all the recipes I love.
My family all came together in the evenings to eat dinner. It was at this time that relationships were built and strengthened. I believe that family dinner is an important tool for cultivating love and strengthening the family. This is why I cook. This is why I share.

Friday, September 5, 2008

Smoked Sausage Sweet Potato Packets

4 12"x18" sheets heavy duty aluminum foil
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
2 medium Granny Smith apples, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
2 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 tsp. brown sugar
2 Tbsp. butter
1 16-oz. package fully cooked smoked sausage, cut into 8 pieces

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Spray the top side of each foil sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
Place one-fourth of sweet potatoes and apples in center of each foil sheet. Sprinkle each with 1/2 tsp. garlic, 1/4 tsp. ginger, 1/4 tsp. cinnamon and 1/2 tsp. brown sugar. Top with 1/2 Tbsp. butter, cut into small pieces.
Place two sausage pieces on top of sweet potatoes and apples. Bring up the sides of the foil. Double fold the top and ends to seal the packets, leaving room for heat circulation inside. Repeat to make four packets.
Place packets on large cookie sheet and place in the oven for 40-50 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.