My new love obsession... Steak.

For those of you who may not have known this before now, I have NEVER liked steak.  Take me to a steak house and I'll get chicken.  Take me to a fish camp or seafood restaurant, I order chicken.  I have nothing against seafood except that fact that I'm allergic to it.  However, the first couple of times I ever ate a steak... I didn't like the texture of it or the fact that chewing constantly was required.

One of the many great things my wonderful boyfriend has introduced me to is the fact that steak can taste good.  It's all about the way it is prepared and cooked.  The first time he ever grilled me a steak, I was so scared that I wouldn't like it so he grilled chicken, too.  To my surprise... I loved it.  Now that seems to be one of our weekend rituals, rib eye steak, loaded mashed potatoes, beans and a roll.  

We don't have it every weekend - but there hasn't been a month so far that we haven't enjoyed it at least once.

I still don't order steak when we go out to eat, unless they don't have chicken on the menu, because I'm never sure if they are going to cook it the way I like.  The only two places I have had steak at a restaurant is The Rustler here in Meridian and at Ralph's on the Park in New Orleans.  At both, I got new york strips.  And both were very much enjoyed.  It's amazing how things change as we get older.

It's been asked of me many times so I give you my loaded mashed potato recipe.

Joyful's Loaded Mashed Potatoes

4 medium to large potatoes, peeled and cubed

1/2 to a full container of an 8oz. sour cream

2 cups of grated cheddar cheese

salt and pepper to taste

Boil cubed potatoes until tender.  In a mixing bowl add potatoes, sour cream, 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cream and salt and pepper.  With a hand held mixer, blend together.  Pour mixture into a small baking dish and sprinkle leftover cheese on top.  Bake at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.