Azoresgal~Life on an Island

  There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens...

There is nothing better than a bowl of delicious homemade soup on a cold winter's day. This very simple, portuguese bean soup just hits the spot. The wonderful Mr.G loves soup for his lunch, and this bean soup just may be, hand's down his favorite one of all. Not only is it filling, but it’s also full of healthy ingredients, cabbage, carrots, beans and collard greens. Only recently, have I started adding dumplings to my soups, it is not something I grew up with, but I have wondered why my mother never made them, because they are delicious! With or without the dumplings this soup is a keeper....it’s warm, comforting and easy to make! 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 medium carrots, chopped 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped 8 cups water or chicken stock pinch of salt 1 large can of kidney beans, undrained 1/2 head of cabbage, finely cut or shredded 2 tablespoons olive oil In a large saucepan combine potatoes, carrots, onion, water and salt. Bring to a

“All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast.” – John Gunther  This weekend Mr.G and I hosted a brunch for some family and friends. I think that brunch is the perfect meal, it's not too early, it's relaxed, you can eat breakfast or lunch, drink coffee or Mimosa's! The hardest part really is deciding on the perfect spread - balancing the sweet and savory foods and of course making sure it all comes together at the same time. The night before, I set the tables and prepare anything that can be made  ahead of time. There is no shame in buying pastries, cookies and bread from the bakery, it means more time for other things. I think I did pretty well, if I do say so myself!  It was the perfect lazy Sunday spent  around our table with delightful company, enjoying delicious food. This, was our brunch spread: Blueberry Muffins Greek Yogurt Parfaits Pancakes Bacon Breakfast Sausage Scrambled Eggs Oven Roasted Potatoes Sauteed Mushrooms Assorted Cookies A

Caldo Verde, portuguese for "green broth", is a very simple soup. Made with few ingredients, potatoes, collard greens, onion and sausage. I made a big pot of it today, we are still recovering from the New Year´s Eve party we hosted ! This soup is flavorful, comforting  and satisfying. Did I also mention it's great for hangovers? Seeing as the season of "eating, drinking and being merry" is coming to an end, a great big bowl of Caldo Verde just hits the spot ! 8 cups water 2 tsp fine salt 1/4 cup olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 large onions,  peeled and quartered 5 medium  potatoes, peeled and halved chourico sausage 1or 2 links 2 cups finely shredded collard greens (6-8 leaves) 4 cups water In a large saucepan, combine water, 1 tsp of the salt, 2 tbsp of the oil, garlic, onions, potatoes and chourico, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 35 to 40 minutes until potatoes are tender when pierc

Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. Ralph Waldo Emerson