Classic Beef Stew
Classic Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This dish combines tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and savory herbs simmered together for several hours in a Crock-Pot, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 8 hours on low, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet provides a satisfying meal for seasoned cooks.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
Cooking Steps:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the browned beef to the Crock-Pot.
- Add carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
- Add the bay leaves to the pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
For ingredient substitutions, feel free to swap out the beef chuck for stew meat or tenderloin. If you prefer, you can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter version. Additionally, switch out the root vegetables with others like parsnips or turnips to diversify flavors.
There are many delicious variations of beef stew, including adding red wine for richness or incorporating mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Consider using different spices, such as paprika or cumin, to give the stew a unique twist. A touch of balsamic vinegar can add a delightful tang as well.
For best results, sear the beef in batches to make certain it browns well, enhancing the stew’s flavor. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can hinder the slow-cooking process by releasing heat. Finally, if you plan to thicken the stew, you can combine a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
To pair with your Classic Beef Stew, consider enjoying a robust red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which complements the rich flavors of the dish. For non-alcoholic options, a dark root beer or a revitalizing ginger ale can also be delightful accompaniments.
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Savory Chicken Tacos
Savory Chicken Tacos are a flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings with friends. This recipe features tender, seasoned chicken wrapped in warm tortillas, complemented by fresh toppings. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a cooking time of around 20 minutes, it’s an easy option that both beginners and experienced cooks can whip up in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Lime wedges for serving
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice or shred the chicken.
- Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- Assemble the tacos by adding chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeños to each tortilla.
- Serve with lime wedges and salsa or hot sauce on the side.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use ground chicken or turkey instead of whole chicken breasts. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, opt for corn tortillas. Alternatively, for a healthier version, consider using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
To vary your tacos, try incorporating different proteins such as shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also explore toppings like diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, or pickled onions to enhance flavor and texture.
When cooking, make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken, as this will help sear the outside and keep the meat juicy.
Additionally, don’t overcook the chicken; removing it from the heat as soon as it is no longer pink will guarantee tenderness.
To pair with your Savory Chicken Tacos, serve a revitalizing drink like a classic margarita or a light Mexican beer. Non-alcoholic options, such as sparkling water with lime or fresh fruit juices, also complement the dish nicely.
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Hearty Vegetable Soup
Hearty Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish, perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm pick-me-up. Packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs, this soup provides a wholesome meal that’s easy to make.
With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, it is suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans, stirring to combine.
- Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, then add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
If you’re looking to modify the ingredients, feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with ones you have on hand, such as sweet potatoes or spinach.
Additionally, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for added depth of flavor, or opt for low-sodium broth to control sodium intake.
To switch things up, consider adding legumes like chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and fiber.
You could also incorporate grains such as quinoa or barley to make the soup heartier. For a spicier kick, include diced jalapeños or add a splash of hot sauce.
For best results, make sure to chop your vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Furthermore, allowing the soup to simmer longer can help develop the flavors further, so if time permits, let it sit on a low heat for a while.
Pair your Hearty Vegetable Soup with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a crisp, invigorating iced tea.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a homemade lemonade or sparkling water with a splash of citrus can complement the meal beautifully.
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BBQ Pulled Pork
BBQ Pulled Pork is a classic American dish that’s become a favorite for gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for flavorful, tender meat.
This dish requires a bit of time for cooking, but the hands-on preparation is quite simple. With a prep time of about 15 minutes and a slow-cooking time of 8 hours (or around 4 hours on high), this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Cooking Steps:
- In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.
- Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, guaranteeing it’s well coated.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the Crock-Pot.
- In a separate bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth, then pour the mixture over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once done, remove the pork from the Crock-Pot, shred it with two forks, and mix it back into the sauce.
- Serve on hamburger buns or with sides of your choice.
For ingredient substitutions, you can replace pork shoulder with a different cut of pork, such as pork loin, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ.
You can also use a sugar substitute for the brown sugar or choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce to accommodate dietary restrictions.
For variations, consider adding different spices to the dry rub such as cayenne for heat or herbs like thyme for a different flavor profile.
You could also experiment with different BBQ sauces, from sweet to spicy, or even add in a splash of beer or cola to the cooking liquid for an additional flavor dimension.
To ascertain a well-cooked pulled pork, make sure to give the meat enough cooking time until it is tender and easily shredded. Additionally, letting the meat rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful result.
For drink pairings, a cold beer like lager or a sweet tea would complement the BBQ flavors beautifully.
If you prefer wine, opt for a fruity red like Zinfandel. Non-alcoholic options such as lemonade or iced tea can also enhance your meal experience.
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Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Ingredients:
- 1 cup arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- In a saucepan, warm the broth over low heat.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly translucent.
- Pour in the white wine and stir until absorbed by the rice.
- Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is absorbed before adding the next.
- After about 18-20 minutes, when the rice is creamy and al dente, remove from heat.
- Stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese until creamy, then season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
For ingredient substitutions, you can replace arborio rice with another short-grain rice like Carnaroli, but keep in mind the texture may vary.
For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese and substitute coconut or almond milk for added creaminess.
For variations, consider adding proteins such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or asparagus for extra flavor and texture.
You can also include herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch, or mix in other vegetables such as peas or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
When cooking risotto, remember to keep stirring to release the starches from the rice, which contributes to its creamy consistency.
Also, verify that your broth is warm; adding cold liquid can slow down the cooking process and affect the final texture.
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.
Alternatively, a light-bodied beer or a rejuvenating sparkling water with lemon also works well to balance the richness of the risotto.
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Spicy Chicken Wings
Spicy chicken wings are a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for game days or casual gatherings. With a preparation time of about 10 minutes and a cooking time of 2 to 3 hours in the slow cooker, this dish requires minimal effort, making it a simple and satisfying choice for any occasion. Whether you like them hot and spicy or a little milder, these wings are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (for serving)
Cooking Steps:
- Place the chicken wings in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or until the wings are tender and fully cooked.
- For extra crispiness, you can place the wings under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after cooking to crisp up the skin.
- Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping.
For ingredient substitutions, you can swap the hot sauce for a milder barbecue sauce if you prefer less heat, or use a sugar-free hot sauce to reduce calories. If you’re allergic to butter or prefer a dairy-free version, olive oil can be used in place of melted butter.
For variations, consider adding different spices to the sauce for unique flavors, such as cayenne pepper for extra heat or honey for a sweet twist. You might also experiment with different types of sauces, like teriyaki or garlic parmesan, for a different take on wings.
When cooking chicken wings in a slow cooker, it’s important to avoid overcrowding the wings to guarantee even cooking. For even better texture, you can pat the wings dry before adding sauce, allowing them to crisp up better if you use the broiler after slow cooking.
For drink pairings, a cold lager or pale ale complements the spicy flavors well. Alternatively, a cool lemonade or a light mojito offers a soothing contrast to the heat, making for a delightful combination.
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Italian Sausage and Peppers
Italian sausage and peppers is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the zesty taste of Italian sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe has a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 4 to 6 hours in the slow cooker, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh Italian parsley (for garnish, optional)
- Crusty bread or hoagie rolls (for serving)
Cooking Steps:
- Place the Italian sausage in the slow cooker.
- Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the sausage.
- Pour the diced tomatoes over the mixture and sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the sausage is cooked through and the peppers and onions are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, along with crusty bread or hoagie rolls.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or omit the sausage altogether for a vegetarian version by replacing it with extra vegetables.
If you don’t have fresh bell peppers, jarred roasted peppers can be a good alternative, and you can swap the canned tomatoes for fresh diced tomatoes if preferred.
For variations, consider adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture. You can also spice things up with a dash of red pepper flakes or serve it with marinara sauce for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different sausages, like andouille or chorizo, to put an exciting twist on this classic dish.
When cooking Italian sausage and peppers, you can guarantee maximum flavor by browning the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
This step enhances the dish’s depth; however, it is optional if you want to save time.
Also, feel free to adjust the cooking time according to your slow cooker model, as cooking times can vary.
For drink pairings, a full-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Additionally, a chilled Italian lager or an invigorating sparkling water with lime would provide a delightful balance to the richness of the dish, making it perfect for any dining occasion.
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Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful dish that marries the comforting taste of tender meatballs with a tangy and slightly sweet sauce, making it an ideal option for appetizers or main courses. This recipe requires about 20 minutes of preparation time and is easy to make, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (with juice)
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Cooking Steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the pineapple chunks (with juice), sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and chopped bell pepper. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until meatballs are cooked through and flavors meld.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use ground chicken or pork in place of beef or turkey. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free option. For a lower-sugar alternative, consider using a homemade sweet and sour sauce made with natural sweeteners or low-sugar ingredients.
Variations are endless with sweet and sour meatballs. You can add shredded carrots or substitute the pineapple with other fruits like mango for a different flavor. Experiment with different sauces, such as adding hoisin sauce for an Asian twist or using barbecue sauce for a smoky variation.
To enhance your sweet and sour meatballs, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds a rich depth of flavor and a bit of texture to the dish.
Always adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker brand as they can vary in heating efficiency.
For drink pairings, a light-bodied white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, beautifully complements the tangy flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, an invigorating iced tea or sparkling lemonade would pair well with the sweet and sour notes.
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Lentil Chili
Lentil chili is a hearty, vegetarian dish that brings together the flavors of chili spices with protein-rich lentils. This satisfying meal is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great choice for any occasion. It requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and is suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado
Cooking Steps:
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
- In a large skillet or slow cooker, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- If using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. For stovetop cooking, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use canned lentils instead of dried to save cooking time (drain and rinse them before adding). Vegetables can also be swapped out; zucchini or sweet potatoes are fantastic alternatives. For a spicier kick, add jalapeño or cayenne pepper.
Variations to lend new flavors to your chili include adding corn for sweetness, diced sweet potatoes for extra heartiness, or black beans for a different texture. You could also experiment by adding a splash of hot sauce or using different herbs like oregano for an Italian twist.
To enhance the flavors of your lentil chili, consider frying the garlic and onion until they are deeply caramelized before adding the rest of the vegetables, which brings out their natural sweetness.
Adjust the liquid content depending on whether you prefer a thicker or soupier consistency.
For drink pairings, a light lager or pale ale pairs well with the hearty flavors of the chili. Non-alcoholic options include a revitalizing lemonade or a robust iced tea, both of which complement the spices beautifully.
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Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken is a zesty and flavorful dish that combines the bright taste of lemon with aromatic herbs and garlic, making it perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and it is suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet. Drizzle with any leftover marinade.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices and fresh parsley.
For ingredient suggestions, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer flavor or try using bone-in chicken pieces for added moisture. If fresh herbs are not available, dried versions can be used but in smaller quantities.
Variations for this dish include adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade for extra tang or incorporating different herbs like rosemary or basil for varied flavor profiles. You can also add vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers to the baking sheet for a complete meal.
Cooking tips include ensuring that the chicken is evenly covered in the marinade for maximum flavor, and letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier piece of chicken.
For drink pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio complements the zesty flavors of the lemon and herbs beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water infused with lemon and mint for a revitalizing accompaniment.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a warm, hearty breakfast option that combines the sweet and spiced flavors of apples and cinnamon with wholesome oats. It is a perfect way to start your day, offering comfort and nutrition in each spoonful. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and it is suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups water or milk (for creamier oatmeal)
- 1 medium apple, diced (any variety)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Chopped nuts (optional, for topping)
- raisins or dried cranberries (optional, for topping)
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a boil.
- Stir in the rolled oats, diced apple, cinnamon, brown sugar (if using), and salt.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats are cooked and the mixture is creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, if desired.
- Serve warm, topped with nuts, raisins, or additional cinnamon, if desired.
For ingredient suggestions, you can substitute steel-cut oats for rolled oats, which will yield a chewier texture but will require a longer cooking time. If you don’t have an apple on hand, feel free to use other fruits such as pears or bananas for a different flavor.
Variations on this dish can include adding a tablespoon of nut butter for creaminess and protein, or using pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a different seasonal flavor. You can also mix in some shredded carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Cooking tips include stirring the oatmeal frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan, and letting it sit covered for a couple of minutes after cooking to thicken up.
For extra creaminess, you can stir in a splash of milk just before serving.
For drink pairings, a hot cup of chamomile tea or a spiced chai would complement the flavors of apple and cinnamon beautifully. Alternatively, a glass of fresh orange juice can provide a bright and invigorating contrast to the warm oatmeal.
