Dinty Moore Hearty Meals

It was my first time to try the Dinty Moore brand and honestly, I was a bit hesitant at first because I didn't know the brand. Until, I saw the Hormel Foods logo on the lower right portion and said, then this must be good. I was not mistaken.

The chunks of chicken tastes and looks like real chicken. All meat, no hint of skin nor bones, unlike some others I've tasted. The dumplings are more like thick square or rectangular pasta. Soft and there's no flour taste, if you know what I mean. In general, I thought it tasted like a thicker version of chicken noodle soup and I actually loved it.

One can can be good for two, or one if you're really hungry. I tasted the other half and I thought I liked the fact that it wasn't as salty as I expected. My mom, who ate the other half, thought it lacks saltiness though. So she added a little bit of soy sauce. Well, I guess we all have different taste buds. 

I guess one can tell if it's a good food when your plate is empty. My bowl is almost empty, and I for sure savored this last scoop. :D

DISCLAIMER

I was not paid to do a review of the product mentioned above. I was given a sample to facilitate my review but everything was based on my honest opinion.

Take A 10-Second Break and Go #SkippyYippee!

Entertain yourself for 10 seconds! Visit Skippy and have fun clicking the peanut! :P Check it out here and have fun! I'm sure it will make you go LOL!

And while you're here or there, watch the new Skippy Peanut Butter "Fun Factory" commercial. You'll never have to use #bored again!

Tell me, what makes you go "yippee"?

DISCLOSURE

I was not paid for this post. As a member of Hormel Foods Family Blogger, I am just eager to share those advertisements with you.

#HFBigGameBites Pinterest Sweepstakes

The Big Game season is here! You probably are as excited as I am rooting for your team, screaming while watching and getting nervous every game! But hey, while the game is off, why not spend some time to enter Hormel Foods #HFBigGameBites Pinterest Sweepstakes. This is your chance chance to win everything you need to throw the perfect Big Game Bash! There's nothing better than watching it with some delicious game bites, right? As far as I remember these snacks always cool me down. Haha!

One Winner: $500 Grand Prize Pack 

• 1 Slow Cooker
• Lawn Chairs
• Assortment of Serving Platters and Utensils
• $250 VISA Gift Card

Two Winners: $150 First Place Prize Pack

• 1 Slow Cooker
• $100 VISA Gift Card

TO ENTER:
1. Login to your Pinterest account, if you don't have one, create an account here.
2. Create a board called #HFBigGameBites.
3. Repin a pin from this board or upload your own Big Game Bite to your #HFBigGameBites board.
4. Pin at least four (4) other pins to your #HFBigGameBites board for a total of five (5) pins to complete your perfect 'Big Game Bash.'

To know more details about this promotion, check the Official Rules.

DISCLAIMER

I was not paid in any way to do a review of the product/s and/or service/s mentioned above. I get to share this promotion as a member of the Hormel Foods Extended Blogger Program. Everything was based on my own opinion.

How Much Protein Does Your Body Need?

If you're into sports or are at least trying to be healthy by going to the gym, and need an extra boost of protein, then you've probably heard of protein shake. I used to not care and know about my protein intake but I guess the Protein Calculator helps.You can find out how much protein your body needs based on your weight and activity level.

If you need more than what you're getting then you probably need more protein intake and that's where the protein nutrition shake comes in. In my opinion, Muscle Milk, can give you just that. And take note, it doesn't just come in one flavor, but five! That at least is for their ready-to-drink products. It comes in Cake Batter, Chocolate, Cookies 'N Crème, Strawberries 'N Crème and Vanilla Crème. It says follow the direction on proper protein intake and also take note of allergic reactions. Here are the FAQ's about Muscle Milk as shown in their website. If your question is not listed here, I believe you can always send them an email.

"Q:  WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DRINK MUSCLE MILK?
A:  Muscle Milk should be consumed as directed on the label.  Muscle Milk can be consumed before workouts, after workouts, first thing in the morning or prior to bedtime.  In addition, Muscle Milk can be used as a meal replacement when you are on the go or as a high protein snack during the day.  But, keep in mind that individual nutritional requirements vary depending on gender, body weight, level of activity and exercise/training intensity and duration.  So, it is best to use Muscle Milk as part of a well-balanced diet that includes whole foods and other protein sources.  We do not recommend Muscle Milk be used as your sole source of nutrition. 

Q:  WHO CAN DRINK MUSCLE MILK?
A:  The short answer is Muscle Milk can be used by almost anyone that is not allergic to dairy proteins.  Plenty of athletes drink Muscle Milk because they may have increased protein requirements, but it is fine for anyone that wants to supplement their protein intake.  The proteins in Muscle Milk may be especially helpful when you are:
starting a new exercise program and trying to build muscle increasing the intensity of your work-outs a vegetarian (that consumes dairy) and does not get enough protein from dietary sources. 

Q:  ARE YOUR PROUCTS CERTIFIED KOSHER?
A:  All flavors of Muscle Milk, Muscle Milk Light and Muscle Milk Collegiate ready-to-drink products are certified Kosher by the Orthodox Union and this is indicated by the  symbol on the label.  Currently, CytoSport powder drink mixes and bars are not Kosher certified. 

Q:  WHICH CYTOSPORT PRODUCTS ARE LACTOSE FREE?
A:  All flavors of Muscle Milk, Muscle Milk Light and Muscle Milk Collegiate ready-to-drink products are lactose free.  Muscle Milk, Muscle Milk Gainer, Muscle Milk Light and Muscle Milk Naturals powders are also lactose free."

My husband was the one who drank it because he regularly goes to the gym, he's more active than I do so I let him finish the whole thing. He used the protein calculator and even read the Nutrition Facts. He said he'll probably need more supply of it. LOL! He liked the taste and the texture of the Strawberries 'N Creme but he said he'd like to taste the other flavors too. What he liked about it the most is that he can bring it anywhere and drink it anytime. No mixing needed. :)

Besides this ready-to-drink product, Muscle Milk also comes in powders, bars, pro series and they even have limited editions inspired by athletes like Shaq, Clay Matthews and more! You also better check their products out because your school might be featured there! Unfortunately, mine's not. But it doesn't matter as long as I get the protein I need, right? ;)

DISCLAIMER

I was not paid in any way to do a review of the product mentioned above. I was given a sample to facilitate my review but everything was based on me and my husband's honest opinion of the product.

My Salsa Was A Hit!

I hosted a party yesterday and I just got to share my experience with Herdez salsa! I am not really a fan and I think this is the first if not the second time I used it with chips. My husband, on the other hand, loves salsa and he uses it with almost anything.

To be honest, I got interested to try the tortilla chips first. I ate it on its own, then I thought of trying it with salsa. Oh my!!! The whole tasting experience became different! I love the fact that it was kind of spicy. I never thought I'd like diced and spiced tomatoes. The taste was just perfect! The ingredients look made with quality from tomatoes to pepper! I might sound over-reacting but I just got to tell what I feel. Maybe I was too excited trying a medium salsa the first time. But I got to share, I almost finished half of the tortillas I served so I had to add more before the other guests arrive. LOL!

I also saw a friend who literally stood behind the appetizer table so I approached him and asked what was he doing there. He said he loved the chips because the sauce was great. I told him it was the first time I tried a (Herdez brand) salsa and I definitely agree with him. I think it was a hit because the salsa bowl was empty, even before the party ended. 

I just wish I had more than a bottle! I never thought a lot of people would like salsa so much and finish the whole thing! I guess I just found my perfect snack-mate!

DISCLOSURE

I was not monetarily compensated to do a review of the product mentioned in this post. I was given a sample to facilitate my review but everything was based on my 100% opinion of the product. 

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookie

My daughter requested for some cookies the other day and I have nothing in the pantry. Thank goodness I saw Skippy peanut butter, and thought of making a homemade version. I am a casual baker, I bake like 6-8 times a month, and this is the first time I am trying a peanut butter cookie recipe. I always end up googling AllRecipes.com and always choose the ones with high rating. And look what I found, a Flourless Peanut Butter Cookie recipe!

I just made some slight changes, instead of using 1 cup of white sugar, I used 1/4 cup white sugar and 1/2 cup brown sugar. I also added a teaspoon of vanilla. I would have added some peanuts on top just for presentation but I guess I'd need to make a quick trip to the grocery store to do so, so never mind. There's actually no need to put more peanut butter in a peanut butter batter (say that three times). I guess using Skippy is the main reason, it already tastes great!  

Since my daughter was so eager to eat some cookies, I didn't have time to cool my batter, I immediately scooped it in the baking sheet. I didn't even read the instructions, I guess I should have put them three inches apart instead of two. Anyway, they turned out great and here's the outso.

There you go, don't they look tempting? If you don't have one at home, I linked the recipe, it so easy! And remember, the taste will be dependent on the peanut butter you have, so use a well-known brand, I trust Skippy!

DISCLOSURE

I was not paid in any way to do a review of the product/s mentioned above. I was provided a sample to facilitate my review but everything was based on my 100% honest opinion of the product.

Pepperoni Recipes

If you thought pepperonis are can only be used for pizza, then you are not being creative with food. Sometime last week I got tired of the usual taste of our red and white pasta, until I discovered a twist to make it more exciting! And it's by adding Hormel Pepperoni Original in the sauce and using it as a topper!

I tried it first with the spaghetti we served during my mom's birthday. Some guests noticed that we used a different kind of sauce, and it was because of the pepperoni topping. They said they never knew it could be added in the sauce and that it turned out good. Well, I just noticed that in the last few months, my imagination is starting to get a bit creative with food. 

Besides using it spaghetti, I also used it as a topper in Pasta Carbonara. This pasta has mushrooms and chicken strips added to it, but the pepperoni, having a bit salty taste, made it even tastier! My husband loved it and he even asked me to put more pepperoni toppings on his pasta.

The day I served the pasta carbonara, I was not able to buy garlic bread to pair with it. I did not know what kind of bread to serve and this one immediately popped in my head. A "Mini-Pepperoni Carbonara Pizza". I just thought about that name. LOL! 

Here's how I did it:

1) Flatten white bread with a rolling pin.

2) Cut the edges if you do not want it, or use sandwich cutter just like I did. You can do just about any shape with this. :)

3) Spread carbonara sauce.

4) Top with pepperoni and cheese. Use whatever kind of cheese you like, I prefer pepperjack. 

5) Bake at 350F for 10 minutes. I only used a toaster oven in this case.

Doesn't it look good? My husband loved my mini-pizzas! He already requested it for breakfast. LOL! I think this would be great to serve as an appetizer during parties too.

I am going to try pepperoni with more recipes next time so stay tuned! ;)

DISCLOSURE

I was not paid in any way to do a review of the product/s mentioned above. I was given a sample to facilitate my review. Everything was based on my honest opinion of the product.

Great Substitute To Cubed Pork Meat

Have you ever experienced a time when you needed only a small amount of meat but the one in your fridge is a whole package, which you have to thaw for more than an hour. You must have also wasted the rest because it's not fresh anymore when you put it back in the freezer. When you're in a hurry, you'll find thawing a pain, but don't give up! I just thought about a solution to that! 

According to the package, Hormel Cure|81 Cubed Boneless Ham is 'great in salads', I'd say it is a great substitute to meals that need chunks of meat! Plus, it's already 'pre-cut'! Less work for you! 

I used Hormel Cure|81 Cured Boneless Ham in two of my favorite recipes. First is for laing, a Filipino dish with dried taro leaves and coconut milk (you can make it spicy by adding red chili peppers). This recipe was my mom's and it was really good! The pork meat cubes, which I substituted with Hormel, was not just good, but great! Good thing the ham was not seasoned that much so it won't interfere with the regular taste of our meals.

I also used Hormel Cubed Boneless Ham as a pork meat-substitute for our sauteed mung beans with horseradish. The Hormel Boneless Cubed Ham didn't crush and it was as tender as the usual boiled pork meat. I think I'd be using it more often with our meals. :)

DISCLOSURE

I was not paid in any way to do a review of the product mentioned above. I was given free samples to facilitate my review. Everything was based on my honest opinion of the product.

The Perfect Party Trays for Gatherings

Have you ever been invited to a party and didn't know what to bring? Or do you always have surprise guests who suddenly appear on your doorsteps? Well, I'd say the new Hormel Gathering Party Tray is the perfect answer to that! There's no need for you to prepare, the ingredients are already there, ready to be served! You don't even need to prepare a serving plate! :)

As you'll see in the pictures above, each ingredient is individually packed and sealed to maintain freshness. If you bought one and won't be using it the same day, place it in the fridge because the cheese might melt. You also need not worry about the crackers being stored in a cool place because it's crunchiness won't be affected. Now let's talk about the ingredients of the party platter:

• Honey Ham - The round bite-sized shape makes it easier to swallow. It is tender and sweet. My favorite to top my appetizer!
• Turkey - Like the honey ham, it has the same shape and size, probably three times the size of a quarter. Anyway, it is soft and it looks really fresh. 
• Cheese - You have two options but both are equally delicious - Sargento Colby Jack and Sargento Mild Cheddar. I loved both because they are smooth and tasty.
• Crackers - Crunchy and I'd say sweet rather than salty. To my fellow Filipinos, if you are looking for crackers similar to Fita, you bet this cracker taste similar to it . It's hard to find it here in the US, now, I know where I can find it! 

I deeply apologize for not having taken closer (and opened) photos of each, I brought this at a party and there were too many people already taking bits and pieces and I didn't want to bother them by taking photos of the food. Well, I'd say I definitely have at least three friends who liked it sooo much, besides my husband and daughter who can't stop eating them! 

Just for you to know. :)

If you prefer other meats to go with the crackers, they also have other Hormel Gatherings Party Trays - Hard Salami & Pepperoni Party Tray AND Supreme Party Tray. I can't wait to bring and try the other for upcoming events!

DISCLOSURE

I was not paid to do a review of the product/s mentioned above. As a member of the Hormel Foods Extended Family Blogger, Mom's Tried and Tested was given a sample to try but was not required to do an online review of the product/s or service/s they provide. This post was based on my 100% honest opinion.

A Creamy Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Spread

My 3-year old knows where I place the food she is allowed to eat - in a cabinet that she can open and reach. One morning, she decided to prepare her own breakfast. I was still in another room when she decided to go down to get something to eat. She was able to reach for the bread and her favorite spread, peanut butter. She must have not noticed at first that she took a new kind of peanut butter. She must have just decided to pick it up because that's the peanut butter's spot in the cabinet. It wasn't opened yet so she yelled, "Mommy, help!". I went down to remove the seal and get her a spreader. 

I saw the look in her eye how surprised she was when she saw it's not the usual brown peanut butter. So she asked me what it is. I said it's Skippy Natural Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate flavor. Her eyes went BIG! She immediately put some on her bread and even prepared one for me! She's really that sweet!

She of course loved it because her favorite spread is peanut butter, and more importantly, it's chocolate!!! Who doesn't love chocolate? ;) I tasted the one she made for me and I kind of liked it. The texture has the right kind of smoothness and it's not super sweet [it was noted in the packaging that it has 60% less sugar compared with Nutella]. As for the taste, you'd know it's peanut butter, but imagine it with add-on chocolate. The taste though can't be compared with Nutella because Nutella uses a different kind of nut which is hazelnut. Skippy Natural Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate has it's own unique taste. I think it was our first time to try a chocolate flavored peanut butter.

For your information.

This Skippy peanut butter won't last long, it's addicting! We'll probably have it everyday for breakfast, and probably use it as a strawberry dip! Mmmmm.. I can already imagine the taste. But I have to wait until tomorrow to buy some fruits. :D

If you want to know more about Skippy, visit their website, Facebook page, Twitter account or Pinterest board.

DISCLOSURE

I was not paid to do a review of the product mentioned above. As a member of the Hormel Foods Extended Family Blogger, Mom's Tried and Tested was given a sample to try but was not required to do a review of the product/s or service/s they provide. This post was based on my 100% honest opinion.

Lunch in 10 Minutes!

I am a stay-at-home mom and I cook at least two times a day. Sometimes it's hard to think of what to cook and I lose my sense of creativity.

Yesterday, when I looked at the freezer, I saw a pack of Hormel Black Label bacon. I thought of using it as an appetizer like bacon-wrapped asparagus or maybe incorporate them in my home-cooked macaroni and cheese. But then it hit me, I haven't eaten bacon for awhile and it's one of my kid's favorite viand!

What I like about the Hormel brand is that the bacon has just the right balance of meat versus fat. Some other bacon brands gives you more fat than the meat, or vice versa. With Hormel, you get the best of both. This original flavor is tasty and not too salty.

I decided to thaw and throw them in the pan. Yes, just like that. You know with bacon you don't need to use oil if you want to fry it, right? Because it will naturally secrete it's own fats. I used to put bacon in the microwave with that bacon plate tool that hold fats and separate them from the meat itself. But I miss it so much that I want to prepare it the classic way! :)

Voila! The end-result is garlic rice, some leftover corned beef and fresh crunchy bacon! Doesn't our lunch look tempting? My daughter would have finished it all on her own if I didn't stop her! LOL!

DISCLOSURE

I was not paid to do a review of the product/s mentioned above. As a member of the Hormel Foods Extended Family Blogger, Mom's Tried and Tested was given samples to try but was not required to do a review of the product/s or service/s they provide. This post was based on my 100% honest opinion.