Silky Avocado Corn and Chicken Soup

Step 1:  Peel 4 ripe avocados and place into food processor or blender with the juice of half a lemon and pulse until blended

Step 2:  Heat one onion or a large shallot, 2-3 large chopped cloves of garlic and 2-3 hot peppers (jalapeno, serrano) in some olive oil until fragrant and add 2 C of chicken stock

Step 3:  Cut chicken breasts or boneless skinless thighs into cubes and cook in the simmering chicken stock

Step 4:  Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon once cooked

Step 5:  Carefully temper the avocado mixture in the food processor by adding 1/4 C of the hot chicken stock mixture, pulsing the food processor or blender between each 1/4 C to combine and blend the onion and garlic into the avocado mixture until about 1 C (or all) of the hot stock has been added and blended until silky smooth.

Step 6:  Add some frozen or canned corn and the chicken back to the soup along with a dash of chili powder and serve with some tortilla chips!

Spaetzle, Take Two

In the Oktoberfest post, although not pictured, I tried my hand at Spaetzle making. For those of you not familiar with this delectable-al dente-eggy-not quite pasta-not quite dumpling-treat, it can be made either the old fashioned way by hand (as seen in this YouTube video) or by using a rather convenient and simple kitchen gadget:

Either way, the dough is so easy, there is no excuse not to try making it:

2 eggs

2 C flour

1/4 t salt

dash nutmeg (optional)

Mix all of the above with a fork (don't overmix), add 3/4 C milk slowly and incorporate until dough resembles thick drop biscuit consistency. Note: All 3/4 C milk might not be necessary.

The kitchen gadget method definitely goes much faster and ensures a wonderful chewy texture and uniform size:

I paired the delicious little Spaetzle with wonderfully seasoned roasted chicken thighs; a hearty and rich mushroom-onion gravy; and a mash of Rutabega, Broccoli, and Parmesan.

I highly encourage you all to try your hand at Spaetzle making - the accessory is rather affordable, and the product is well worthwhile!