Turn A Plain Piece Of Meat Into A Succulent Entree

Writen by Maria Graver

Can't remember what you had for dinner last night?

Make the meal served at your family table a memorable one. Chicken, beef, pork or fish, whichever is your favorite, don't settle for a plain meal ever again. With a few simple ingredients that most of us probably have in the cupboard, you can dress up a simple meal and make your family say "mmmmm."

The base for most sauces and gravies begins with a roux: a mixture of flour or corn starch blended into meat juices or bouillon and water. Butter can be used to make a cream sauce. Blended well and seasoned with a touch of garlic, curry, pepper, herbs or other spices, it's that easy! Drizzle this burst of flavor over your dish. You and your family will begin looking forward to dinner.

My family loves it, right down to the last drop, swiped up with a hot buttered dinner roll. Our favorite is a zesty Italian glaze that I make for grilled Chicken.

• Brown your chicken in olive oil. I like the boneless, skinless breast meat.

• Once browned, remove chicken from the pan and set aside. Turn the heat down to low.

• Melt 2 tablespoons of butter to the oil in the pan.

• Add one clove of crushed garlic. Powdered Garlic will also work.

• Half of one onion diced, and two bouillon cubes.

• Once the onion and garlic have softened until clear in color, add 3 tbls. of flour.

• Stir the flour in until it absorbs all of the oil, butter and juices from the chicken. It should become a paste.

• Using a whisk, (a fork will do), slowly add 3 cups of water, a little at a time. This keeps lumps from forming.

• Season with some Oregano and Basil, (Italian Season). A pinch of red pepper flakes, Salt and Pepper to taste.

• Replace the Chicken into the pan, cover and let simmer for 35 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally. If too thick, add a few tbls of water. If too thin, leave cover off and let it reduce down. (evaporate)

Quick, easy and delicious, the chicken will be moist and tender, never dry and chewy. You too can make saucy, delicious dishes, by following the quick and easy recipes and directions, for meats, rice, potatoes, vegetables, pastas and more at www.MariasCookery.com

Maria Graver is the author of many articles related to cooking and entertainment. While she has catered full dinners to groups as large as 400, most of her writings are focused on the family and creating memorable meals that keep everyone coming back for more. If you'd like to learn how do start cooking like a pro, please visit http://www.mariascookery.com