Finding Joy

Some days can be overwhelming with the blitz of news.

So I need to remind myself that my chosen word of 2025 was and still is "joy."

Last week's Valentine's gathering hosted by Francine and George was a celebration of friendship and food. 

It was also a night to inaugurate their new dining table, which arrived just before we all came. Francine definitely was joyful with that delivery. 
 

All the guests' food contributions (salad, charcuterie appetizer board) were delicious, as well as the main entree, a beef dish served over potatoes. 

I made chocolate mousse. No surprise I picked bringing a dessert.

Chocolate Mousse the recipe link   https://sockfairies.blogspot.com/2021/12/reindeer-bar-feature-sweet-treats.html

On the way home, a full moon over the mountains made for a stunning view. 

Each day, my hibiscus plant produces another blossom or two to enjoy. 

 For me, it is finding joy in my cooking as well as discovering new books to read. 

A weeknight meal that's sure to be a winner: Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls. It's a recipe perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a delicious lunch that keeps you fueled and satisfied. With a variety of options to suit every taste, this bowl is your go-to for easy and wholesome meals! It is a great way to keep the celebration going for the Year of the Snake. It is an economical, family-friendly meal made with pantry staples that can be customized. 

The recipe was adapted from recipecritic.com. Optional add-ins to consider are carrots, mushrooms, and broccoli. 

• Korean Ground Beef  and Rice Bowls
• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef (85%)
• 3/4 cup diced sweet onions
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 3/4 cup diced mini yellow and red peppers 
• 2 cups snap peas
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Hoisin sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 heaping teaspoon of cornstarch 
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper pepper
• 2 cups hot cooked jasmine or brown rice
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Directions:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic, breaking the meat into crumbles over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Drain the grease. Return the meat, onions, and garlic back to the pan.  
Whisk cornstarch, brown sugar, soy sauce, Hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour over the ground beef, and add in mini peppers and snap peas. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for another 20 minutes on medium-low. 
Serve over hot rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.