'A co-worker who was born in Cuba helped me perfect the recipe for this hearty dish,' reports Helen Simms of Lyons, Michigan. 'Now it's one of our family's favorites. It's also a great way to use up leftover holiday ham.'
'This recipe is a favorite of my vegetarian friends,' writes Virginia Anthony of Blowing Rock, North Carolina. 'I lightened it by using egg substitute and reduced-fat cheese. I also added a few more vegetables.'
'This recipe is constantly requested by family and friends,' writes Janis Murphy of Redondo Beach, California. 'Feel free to substitute other berries,' she adds.
Fresh spring asparagus, spinach, and leeks from the garden are the ideal way to enjoy this hearty soup, but it's great any time of year! Potatoes, rice, and carrots round out this creamy favorite.
This recipe, from Charlotte Skelton's book Absolutely a la Carte (A la Carte Alley, $22.95), is named after a community north of Biloxi. When pressed for time, try the Kitchen Express method below.
These tasty meatballs will disappear quickly from anyone's holiday party. My mom makes them every year for New Years Eve, and now so do I. These do very well in a slow cooker, as you can simmer them before serving, as well as keep them hot for the duration of your party.