Celebrating Victory

In life it is pretty easy to celebrate large victories, like the Saints winning the Super bowl last night. However, achievements aren’t always so obvious and many go unrecognized in the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives. We often accomplish a goal only to rush off to the next task. It is hard sometimes to even recognize things as accomplishments, but victories come in all shapes and sizes. It is part of my daily practice to celebrate all of my achievements. They might not be big, but for me each small step in the right direction should be celebrated. Each moment when you make a choice that brings you closer to triumph deserves a little cheer. If you want to loose weight and you choose an apple instead of a hot fudge sundae that deserves a little happy dance.

The successes I am celebrating today are winning $30 last night, listened to a new friend share life stories, made a great breakfast Sunday morning, laughed with loved ones all weekend, and I finally set up a Twitter account. Go ahead and follow me: http://www.twitter.com/HotMessCooking. My successes might not measure up to the magnitude of the super bowl win, but never the less they are important. I am choosing to celebrate all of the micro-successes that lead up to the big momma victory. We celebrate each win of the super bowl champions along the way right? So why not give yourself the same gift and celebrate your own victories each day?

In lou of the Saints' big win last night, I am taking the opportunity to dig out my favorite recipe for Boast worthy Beignets. They instantly teleport me to the busy streets of the French quarter filled with fun-loving people, jazzy street musicians, and laughter. It is important to celebrate our successes; large and small. It might mean celebrating not hitting the snooze button, taking the dog for a walk, or finally getting that ONE thing on your to do list accomplished.

Please join me in tasting the delicious flavors of success for the Saints and yourselves. And do yourself a favor and drink a creamy café latté with them! You won't be dissapointed and making these sweet treats may be a success you get to celebrate tomorrow!

Boast worthy Beignets

1 1/2 cups warm water

1 package active dry yeast
1/4 cup splenda
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup evaporated milk (skim preferred)
7 cups flour
1/4 cup shortening
Oil for deep frying, we prefer to use vegetable oil
Confectioners' sugar
Cinnamon (if desired)

Combine the warm water and yeast in a large bowl and stir until yeast is dissolved. Allow to sit for 5 minutes. The yeast will bubble slightly. In a separate bowl whisk together sugar, salt, eggs, and evaporated milk, then pour into the water and yeast mixture. Stir in 3 cups of flour with a wooden spoon; mixing thoroughly to avoid lumps. Beat in the shortening. Then add the remaining flour 1/2 cup at a time. Once all of the flour has been added; kneed the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes ensuring the flour has been incorporated.

Place the ball of dough back into a large bowl that has been sprayed with baking oil and cover with plastic wrap. Place the covered dough in a warm area for at least 2 hours. This can also be prepared the night before and refrigerated overnight.

When ready to prepare; roll out the dough until it is 1/8 of an inch thick. Cut the dough into rectangles measuring 2 inches by 3 inches approximately. Heat the oil to 360 degrees in a deep fryer or deep saucepan.

Fry 3 or 4 beignets at a time until they are puffed and golden in color. You should turn them over in oil once or twice during cooking. It will take 2-3 minutes per batch. Once done, place them on a paper towel covered plate. They can be kept warm in an oven while the other batches are created or you can drop them in a bag of powdered sugar immediately and begin enjoying!

These should be served covered in confectioner's sugar and eaten fresh out of the fryer alongside a café latté!

Café latté

Brew one shot of expresso and top with steamed milk in a tall 8 to 10 oz. glass. It is the perfect compliment to these boast worthy beignets!

Let the good times roll!

Mental Health Tip: When you reach your goals, keep your promises, and follow your dreams don't forget to celebrate each victory along the way. Every large dream is achieved with small victories. Celebrate every one of them!

Here's hoping for victory for you in whatever you are pursuing!
 
~ "Too Lovely" Hot Messes in the kitchen