So, I’ve told you about my neighbor Eddie. Now here’s the skinny on the neighbors on the other side.

They like to eat like we do. And now they’re on the Atkins Diet.

So basically that means they only eat steak, beef of any kind, chicken, bacon and various pork products.

At least that’s their interpretation of the diet. Needless to say, they’re having a grand old time with it.

Now that’s my kind of diet!

I don’t know whether they’ve lost any weight on it, but who cares? They’re eating steak, steak and more steak!

Is this a great country or what? 

Stay tuned tomorrow for the lowdown on the neighbors across the street.

Just too cold for you to grill outside?

I understand. Temperatures below freezing make us want to stay inside where it’s warm and toasty.

Well, you don’t have to put off that yummy filet until spring. Just try this recipe using your stovetop and oven!

Filet Poele
(serves four)
4 6oz Filet Mignon
1/2 Cup chopped Onion
1/2 cup chopped carrot
1/2 cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 bay leaf
1 sprig fresh thyme
1lb or four sticks butter melted
1 tablespoon neutral oil, such as safflower or canola
Salt and Pepper

Season both sides of the filet with salt and pepper and sear with the oil in a hot pan.  In a covered casserole or Dutch oven, spread the onion, carrot and celery in an even layer over the bottom.  Place the seared steaks, garlic and thyme on the bed of vegetables and pour the butter over the top.  Cover and bake in a 300 degree oven for 30 minutes or until desired doneness.  When finished, remove the filet from the dish and discard the butter and vegetables.
Poele is a nearly forgotten French culinary technique called butter braising.  Pronounced pwaw – lay it is no longer used, primarily because of its expense and the need for an already tender cut of meat.

I’ll admit, I’m a purist. I like my baked potato with my steak. Any steak.

It’s quite cliched, but that’s how I like it.

But every once in a while you want to branch out, try something new.

And I’ve found what has to be the most scrumptious recipe for Oven Sweet Potato Fries over at sugarlaws.com.

These would go well with any cut of meat, maybe even a roast if you dare to venture away from oven-roasted or mashed potatoes.

Try ’em! You might like them. And they’re much healthier than the standard potato fare. Sweet potatoes pack a punch full of healthy ingredients.

Enjoy!