Mummy Cupcakes

These were super simple...and they turned out super cute! I just made a regular batch of chocolate cupcakes and put the icing on in a mummy pattern. Then I added black gel dots and red sugar dots for hte eyes...that's it!!!

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

These are pretty darn tasty! I was suprised:-) Super easy too!!!

First off...Happy Halloween everyone!!! Here is our pumpkin this year:-)

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:

Scoop seeds out of pumpkin and rinse under cold water...getting all of the stringy stuff off of them.
Spread out on roasting pan and sprinkle with salt, cumin, garlic powder and chili powder. Toss together to coat all of the seeds and roast in 350 oven for about 30 minutes....or until the seeds are toasted brown. They will smell awesome too....so you will know they are done:-) I tossed them around on the pan about half way through the cooking. ENJOY!

Beef Stew

Perfect Fall Supper!!!

Ingredients:

• 1 lbs boneless chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp freshly ground pepper
• 1 yellow onions, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2-3 tbsp cup flour
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 3 carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch slices
• 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut in eighths

DIRECTIONS

1. On medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil to a large heavy pot (one that has a tight fitting lid).
   
2. When it begins to smoke slightly, add the beef and brown very well. Add the salt and pepper as the beef browns.
   
3. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.
   
4. Add the onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
   
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, and add the flour and cook for 2 minutes stirring often.
   
6. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
   
7. Add wine and deglaze the pan, scraping any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. The flour will start to thicken the wine as it comes to a simmer.
   
8. Simmer wine for 5 minutes, and then add the broth, bay leaves, thyme, and the beef.
   
9. Bring back to a gentle simmer, cover and cook on very low for about 1 hour.
   
10. Add potatoes and carrots and simmer covered for another 30 minutes or until the meat and vegetables are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning.
    
11. Turn off heat and let sit for 15 minutes before serving. 

ENJOY! This is wonderful stew!!!