I did another session of Freezer Cooking yesterday.  I've been doing this almost monthly since February and the more I do it, the better I get at it.  Gradually we've purchased tools to make the process easier.  Since I've never been interested in cooking, my tool selection was quite pitiful.  I've learned that it really helps to have the right items.

Well, several of the recipes I've been doing call for things to be pureed.  I had a blender and it was less than adequate.  Is there such a thing as a blender that actually works?  I don't think mine ever did.  I borrowed my mom's and it worked slightly better.  She said she never used it and I could have it.  Last week I attempted to puree some cauliflower with it (to make mock mashed potatoes).  It didn't do much and I became quite frustrated.  I told my husband who asked if I'd be interested in a food processor.  I really didn't want to spend the money on something I'd never tried - what if it wasn't any better than the blender?

Sunday afternoon I was so tired that I laid down when the little kids did and took a nap.  While I was asleep, Erik and the older kids went to the store and purchased me a food processor.  It was a lovely surprise.  I couldn't wait to try it.  So, yesterday morning I intended to just do prep work (chopping, slicing, browning meat...etc).  However, when I tried the processor I was amazed!!  The speed at which it took care of tasks that would usually be so time consuming, inspired me to see what I could finish yesterday.

I was able to prep and assemble 39 dinner entrees yesterday!  What typically would take me a minimum of two days was finished in ONE!  My new favorite kitchen appliance is the food processor!  I'm sure those who have known the beauty of this tool will find this post somewhat comical.  I'm just glad my husband took the initiative to provide me with one!

Note:  Maria asked for a list of the entrees and some recipes.  I can't post the recipes due to copyright but you can find some of them at 30DayGourmet.  If you purchase the book you can get access to the entire site but even the free version has a lot of information.

Country Chicken Pot Pie
Soup'erior Meatloaf
Lazy Day Lasagna
Jerk Pork Chops
Quiche in a Bag
Cheeseburger Quiche
Cheddar and Broccoli Soup
Chicken in a marinade
Grilled Chicken Parmesan