My skin has been on the struggle bus lately. Between intense dryness and occasional hormonal breakouts, I don’t know what my skin needs some days. It had been about two months since my last facial when Isabelle McLeod, a licensed esthetician, recommended that I try a signature facial. I have tried several facials that all claimed to be “life-changing.” However, the itinerary for this treatment was more than I ever expected. The facial includes microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, enzyme treatment, extractions, red light therapy, cryotherapy, and a mask. Its mission is to cater to your skin’s needs for the best results moving forward.
I had never seen a facial packed with so many steps and was skeptical about it providing “instant results.” Still, I had booked the appointment in hopes that I would somehow be proven wrong. The beauty world can be full of promises; sometimes, it’s hard to see past glamorized marketing. McLeod welcomed me in her stunning office with open arms. Her energy was graceful and warm. I immediately felt comfortable opening up about my skin struggles as she listened openly. Here are a few of the questions I asked her.
How Often Should You Really Get a Facial?
Affording a facial regularly is a privilege most of us would kill for. I like to look at facials like doctor's or dentist's appointments. Yes, you don’t have to go as often, but you should at least try to shoot for a few times a year. McLeod advocates booking a facial every four to eight weeks, depending on your skin needs. Mcleod says, “If you’re someone who has acne or hyperpigmentation, I typically recommend coming in every four weeks until we can get the skin balanced.”
Regular Facials Don’t Mean Less Care for the Skin.
Even if you get a luxe treatment like the signature facial, we must care for our skin. Having dry skin during the winter months has caused me to be diligent about my skin needs. I expressed this to McLeod as she educated me on the importance of being selective about my skincare products each season. “I am big on using hyaluronic acid; it penetrates the skin well and allows you to achieve the moisture you’re looking for,” says McLeod. She also suggested using the popular skincare product twice a day for those with dryer skin textures. I appreciated this since my skin is mostly dry at night and when I wake up.
Signature Facials Are a Good First Step to Balancing Your Skin.
The signature facial intrigues me because it is dedicated to targeting your skin's needs. I hoped it would combat my dryness and put my hormonal pimple in place. As my consultation with McLeod went further, I wondered if I would need to get the 90-minute facial every time. McLeod's answer was the relief I needed. “We recommend people do the signature facial the first time they come in because it’s consultative, we build a routine for you, and it creates a foundation for healthy skin,” says McLeod. Before I knew it, it was time for me to get cozy and take my first step to having a better relationship with my skin.
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The Signature Facial Process.
McLeod tackled my skin needs with microdermabrasion first. I felt cozy under a heated blanket as she purged all the build-up in my pores. As the treatment continued, she provided dermaplaning and a cooling enzyme treatment. Both proceeders put me in a deep sense of relaxation. I was nearly about to fall asleep until McLeod informed me it was time for extractions. At the time, I only had one hormonal pimple that needed to be evicted. McLeod proceeded to tackle my breakout and smaller ones I had around my chin and forehead area. The extractions were painful, but knowing she cleared my pores was satisfying.
Once the extractions were finished, my face was on the sensitive side. McLeod soothed my sensitivity by providing a treatment mask and a hot towel now and then. Something about the hot towel put my skin at rest. I relaxed again as she offered a red light treatment to erase unwelcome bumps. At this moment, the battle of the extractions was worth it, and I was excited about the result.
The Results Are Better Than You Think.
I have had my fair share of facials, and not all have been worth the time or the money. The signature facial is worth every penny! When I got up for McLeod’s facial setup, my skin was glowing with intense moisturization. I had some redness from the extraction process. My hormonal pimple had subsided as a result, which was more than enough to satisfy me. As I continued my day, my skin radiated as if I were reborn again. Finally, I found a talented esthetician who could target my hormonal acne and dryness.
My skin did become sensitive, just like McLeod had warned me, as the day turned into night. But hey! What’s beauty without a bit of pain? I made sure to be gentle with my skin by washing it with a calming face cleanser. I also avoided putting any harsh serums (not that it needed any). Opting for a simple hydrating moisturizer was enough to hold my skin for the night. If you want to reboot your skin, I highly recommend the signature facial.
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Beyoncé Unveils Cécred, A Haircare Line Rooted In Legacy & The Sacredness Of Rituals
Becky, with the good hair, ain’t got nothing on Beyoncé’s recently launched haircare line. Our Queen Bey announced to her supporters that her haircare line Cécred (pronounced like “sacred”) is inspired by her early days in her mother's salon. Beyoncé wrote in an Instagram post, “Having learned so much on my own hair journey, I’ve always dreamed of carrying on her [Tina Knowles] legacy.”
We’ve seen Beyoncé in several hairstyles while maintaining her signature blonde hair. The Cécred haircare brand, which launched its debut line, The Foundation Collection this week, advocates for healthy colors, coils, and different textures. In founding the brand, Beyoncé sought to create products that brought the teachings of her mother, Tina Knowles, to life.
"We started by prioritizing the needs of textured hair like mine and others who lack moisture and strength," Beyoncé wrote in a statement on the Cécred site. "It was important to honor past rituals while infusing our personal touch by adding advanced science to build new sacred rituals. The result was haircare defined by its performance, quality, and intention."
Beyoncé's Cécred Haircare Story
Beyoncé entering the hairline chat is exciting, especially since many other legendary celebrities will be standing beside her. Taraji P. Henson, Tracee Ellis Ross, La La Anthony, and more celebs have started haircare lines to empower women with natural hair textures. In her brand story, the Renaissance artist took pride in creating a haircare brand that places hair health above all and "isn’t put into the same box others have tried to put me in as a Black woman throughout my career."
"I built Cécred from the ground up," she continued. "I poured into it everything I’ve learned throughout my life so we can borrow some of our past and bring it to the future. Cécred is about prioritizing yourself and all the things you hold sacred." Knowing Beyoncé's rapport on brand launches, her haircare line will not disappoint.
This isn’t Beyoncé’s first rodeo in the entrepreneurial space. She has helmed many businesses, the most popular being her Ivy Park clothing line, and the most recent, a venture in the fragrance space with her perfume CÉ NOIR. The power of the BeyHive is already standing on business behind the line's debut, similar to her previous launches.
If you're ready to get your hair snatched, keep reading for the kinds of products to expect with Beyoncé's haircare line Cécred.
Cécred, The Foundation Collection
Hydrating Shampoo
Cécred’s Hydrating Shampoo is infused with hyaluronic acid to provide quality moisture to the hair and scalp. The product also cleanses from root to tip, leaving the hair feeling moisturized, manageable, and strong. It intends to improve overall health for all hair types. According to the website, this shampoo is enriched with notes of oud, sandalwood, warm musk, violet leaves, and jasmine.
Clarifying Shampoo & Scalp Scrub
Just like our skin, taking care of our scalp is essential. The Clarifying Shampoo & Scalp Scrub by Cécred is a perfect blend of natural exfoliants to help you achieve a clean base. Tea tree oil, willow bark, and niacinamide are just a few of the ingredients that will invigorate your scalp. Work the product into your roots while enjoying the relaxing scents of peppermint, rosemary, lemon, and tea tree oil.
Moisturizing Deep Conditioner
Through her hair journey, Beyoncé knows how important it is to moisturize hair. Her Deep Conditioner intensely moisturizes the hair shaft, keeping it healthy and strong. This product is formulated with a blend of 12 moisturizing butters and oils. Hyaluronic acid is also part of the formula to lock in all the moisture for long-lasting results. This product is heavier in formula, so it is recommended for those with curly, coily, and even zig-zag hair textures.
Reconstructing Treatment Hair Mask
Hair damage can be a struggle! Thankfully, the Reconstructing Treatment Hair Mask can bring your tresses back to life. It’s filled with antioxidants, vitamin E, and Kartin to help repair damage and breakage. The Cércred team was also mindful not to add silicones, SLS/SLES, phthalates, and parabens to ensure your hair only gets the best treatment it deserves.
Fermented Rice & Protein Ritual
This historic duo is made to bring your hair back to life. Fermented rice and protein rituals have been a part of many different cultures for generations. However, the rice water usually takes a few days to settle. This is a treatment that is ready when you are! The fermented powder activates into water once prepared for use. Once completed, the second step is to infuse your hair with African oils to build its health, making it stronger and less prone to breakage.
Nourishing Hair Oil
The appearance of this product is honey-like as if giving a subtle nod to the BeyHive. We love this look with the Nourishing Hair Oil and its sweet benefits! Made with 13 oils and natural extracts, it gives you the highest moisture quality possible. A few of the oils are jojoba, coconut, argan, flaxseed, sweet almond, olive, castor oil, and more. These oils target deep into the hair follicles to achieve strength, shine, and growth.
Moisture Sealing Lotion
Beyoncé is bringing hair lotions back! The product should lock in all the moisture to achieve more enhanced and long-lasting styles. It’s perfect for curly hair use, especially if you want to make your wash-n-gos last. Infused with a blend of African oils to help you combat any frizz, while also providing a soft hold. We can hear all curly girls give a sign of relief! Looks like Cécred is here to stay.
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Featured image by Cécred
My hair has always been the focus point of my presence, and as a child, it was always the topic of conversation for adults before I even got to know who I was. Being raised in a predominantly Puerto Rican culture, “pelo malo” or “bad hair,” was a term I frequently heard adults categorize my crown as. This was when natural hair wasn’t celebrated but was viewed as a sign of not being "well-groomed."
As a little girl, I was conditioned to believe my hair—my identity—wasn’t up to the standard of what good hair looks like. I then spent my formative years wearing predominantly straight, relaxed hairstyles, covering my true identity with beauty standards.
My natural hair was complimented for the first time when I was 22. I had skipped a relaxer appointment, and my roots had begun to show. After decades of being told my hair wasn’t good enough, the compliment felt strange. I instantly became shy and almost ashamed. However, as my roots began to grow, so did my confidence. The relaxer movement began transitioning into a natural hair empowerment movement.
American society had finally celebrated my curls in a way I hadn’t experienced. I felt proud to wear my natural hair out, and the bigger it got, the more I felt rooted in my identity.
However, there was a shift in acceptance when I began wearing my natural hair in Europe. Everything I had worked so hard to accept about myself felt challenged again.
Wearing my big hair in spaces that were predominantly white became the focal point of my existence. I was faced with looks and questions about why my hair was a particular texture or style. At the same time, I was also witnessing white women wearing hairstyles like box braids, cornrows, and faux locs—the same styles I was labeled as “ghetto” at one point for rocking. I felt like our identity and culture were being judged and mocked at the same time.
Old wounds began to arise, “It’s always okay for them, but never for us,” I thought to myself.
Hair products are crucial for Black and Brown women, and when we travel, the first thought that comes to many of our minds is our hair. Thankfully, one beauty store in Basel, Switzerland, Tropical Zone, carried natural hair products, and it became my safe space when my hair needed self-care.
I restocked on a few products and immediately went home to put my hair in twists. Later that night, I was out at a bar with friends when someone asked me what happened to my hair. I was immediately confused by what the person meant. They then explained that my hair was big, and now it’s not, alluding that something must have gone wrong. The little girl in me began to feel small again.
Unfortunately, these are the norms women of color face when traveling to predominately white countries. Our skin, hair, and essence of who we are are constantly observed and challenged. We find ourselves having to over-explain our features that wouldn’t be questioned if we were white facing. These moments can feel frustrating. We travel to liberate our lives in ways our ancestors could not, yet we can feel trapped by the ignorance of those around us. We are then faced with the choice to rise above adversity.
I decided the little girl in me wouldn’t shrink this time. Radical acceptance is living fully even in parts of the world where Black and Brown culture isn’t fully understood or accepted.
As a woman of color, there will always be someone confused or uncomfortable about parts of my identity. There’s peace in knowing that it’s their problem and not mine. It’s also my responsibility to become entirely comfortable with myself and realize that my triggers are a signal of healing I must do.
Despite where we are in the world, the journey to living as our most authentic selves is the hardest and most radical form of freedom that starts with healing.
There are parts of Switzerland that require a lot of education and awareness, and this excites me because learning is the road to evolution. I hope that this essay will spark a healing conversation on how we can work together to bridge the gap and make women of color feel seen for who they are and not only for their hair texture or skin tone. Black and Brown women are beautiful, joyful, complex, and simple all at the same time. We deserve a space in the world to just be us, for us.
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Scalp treatments are the latest hair care trend on the market. Brands have been pushing scalp products as an added step to achieve healthy hair. For women with natural hair, it can seem like another step to our already vigorous hair care routine. But this isn’t just any hair step. It’s one backed by science. Research shows that scalp conditions impact our hair growth through oxidative stress. The skin condition is a disturbance between free radicals and antioxidants in your body.
Oxidative stress was understood to start on our face, causing aging, but it actually begins on our scalp, causing permanent hair loss. This is just one of the many examples of how an uncared-for scalp can rapidly cause more significant issues. Our scalp, just like our skin, needs a healthy routine to keep the skin at its best.
I’m on top of my skincare routine like my life depends on it. I’m constantly investing in skincare products, putting on face masks, and regularly visiting my esthetician to ensure this face is one point. When I was approached to attend a scalp consultation, I didn’t understand the need.
I wash my hair thoroughly once a week and definitely give my scalp the good scrub it deserves. However, my hair has been extremely dry due to the dry winter months. This has caused my hair to have severe breakage. Part of me wondered if it was because my scalp was dry, and after reading the studies just discussed, I figured following through with an appointment couldn’t hurt.
What Is A Scalp Consultation?
A scalp consultation uses a microscopic camera to look deeper into your crown. The consultation will focus on five areas: hair loss, sensitivity, density, dead skin cells, and thickness. Each section will then receive an overall score. The scores may vary depending on the care of the scalp area. Measuring these points will help you get greater insight into your scalp and hair needs. From there, your consultant will recommend products and a routine that will be kinder for your scalp. Getting a consultation is essentially getting to the root of your hair needs.
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My Experience
I went to the Act+Acre studio and trichologist-developed scalp brand to consult with founder Helen Reavey. She kindly welcomed me into her studio as if I were entering her home. Her warm embrace was comforting since I felt vulnerable about my scalp's possible imperfections. Reavey began by asking me if I had any scalp concerns and what my hair care routine was. I had expressed to her that my hair had been experiencing a bit of dryness.
Before I could go further, she gracefully reminded me that it’s quite normal to experience dryness at this time of year. Reavey mentions, “You may want to consider changing your hair and scalp routine for the season. It could help immensely.” I hadn’t considered the idea until then, but it made sense. If you change up your skincare routine for the season, why not the way you care for your scalp and hair?
Reavey wasted no time getting to the root of the consultation. She grabbed her scalp camera and began examining my scalp, which I could see through a monitor. I began questioning if I should have cleansed more or at least put a little dry shampoo, but then what would be the point of the consultation? I watched nervously.
To my surprise, Reavey described my scalp as being in fairly good condition despite having some dryness in a few areas. I was shocked! I responded, “I’ve been using scalp scrubs; maybe that’s been helping?” Reavey then explained to me that scalp scrubs can dry out the scalp and damage the skin. “If you wouldn’t put it on your face, you shouldn’t put it on your scalp,” Reavey said. I nearly had a flash of every scalp scrub article I had written, but before I could think further, it was time for my recommendations.
Recommended Plan of Action
Reavey showed me my scores, which were nearly perfect despite all of my anxiety. She recommended that I wash my hair bi-weekly and, in between, do a co-wash. I had meant to implement co-washing into my routines, and this was just a perfect excuse to start.
Then she packed me a goodie bag of the following products: scalp detox (because scrubs are now canceled), hair oil, curl spray, and soft curl, all found on the brand's website. I was immensely grateful as she explained how to implement each product into my routine.
She also gave me a showerhead filter as if the other goodies weren’t amazing enough. "Filtered water can help keep the hair moisturized and promote hair growth,” Reavey said. Living in New York, I’m lucky the water isn’t as harsh here. However, spending my college years in Florida, I know other states aren’t as lucky. Florida’s water had a huge impact on the health of my skin and hair, leading to intense dryness. Despite now living in New York, I was grateful to receive a shower filter. The product I received will be available for others to purchase in the first week of February.
Would I Recommend It?
I would absolutely recommend getting a scalp consultation regardless of whether you are having scalp issues or not. The scalp is an essential area in our body that gets neglected often but can cause significant issues if not cared for. Your scalp deserves the same tender, love, and care you would give to your skin.
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Spa days are the perfect hack to center ourselves. Our serotonin levels skyrocket almost instantly when we enter a nail or beauty salon. We soon return to our confident selves, ready to face the world again. Unfortunately, regular salon and spa visits can have a serious impact on our bank accounts. Maintenance treatments can cost us hundreds of dollars a month, nearly becoming a bill we can barely keep up with. Most of us ask if there is a way we can be our fabulous selves without paying for a costly maintenance experience.
At-home spa experiences are becoming increasingly popular due to inflation. Creating a spa space in your home can be cost-effective, customizable, and overall more convenient. A one-time purchase of various spa items can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in one year. Freeing up your bank account to enjoy other self-care pleasures like vacations or going out to eat with friends - someone’s gotta see that fresh pedicure, are we right? If you’re looking to take the leap by getting your own spa equipment, here is a guide of items that could help you get started.
1. Steamer
Whether for a deep conditioning treatment or a facial, a steamer is essential to start your spa experience. Amazon has a great selection of steamers, like this one, starting from only $27. A basic facial package at a spa will cost you double the price of buying your own steamer. Although some steamers will claim to be for face or hair, there are plenty of videos online of women using their steamers for more than one use.
Enjoy a steamer penetrating your pores, or turn around and use it to give your hair more life. It’s important not to get too close to the item when using it for your face. Be sure to keep yourself at a fair distance to prevent any burns.
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2. Gel X Nail Set
Gel X nails have become increasingly popular for their natural aesthetic. A classic Gel X manicure can cost you about $70 per appointment. Depending on how long your nails last, this can add up to about $140 a month before tip if you visit the salon biweekly. You can purchase your own at-home equipment for the same price as a Gel X manicure set. Aprés sells their Neutrals Gel X Nail Extension Kit Duo for $70. You can create your customizable nail kit by selecting nail colors, shapes, and sizing options.
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3. Oil Diffuser
Oil diffusers are the most underrated part of the spa experience. Scents like lavender can instantly relax us after a stressful week, while peppermint can be a great way to feel energized. Setting up an oil diffuser in your home can help you create the mood you’re trying to achieve. This ceramic diffuser can satisfy any home aesthetic and make your space smell like your favorite local spa. Purchase your favorite essential oil from BLK + GRN. The Black-owned marketplace offers a variety of all-natural essential oils and candles if oil diffusers are just not your thing.
4. Face Mask
Would it really be a spa day if there wasn’t a face mask involved? Taking care of our skin can be the confidence boost we need to get through the week. However, not all face masks are created equal. We must be selective about what we put on our faces because, well, it’s our face. Natural face masks can be a safe way to give your skin the deep pore spa experience your skin needs. Buttah by Dorion Renaud offers an all-natural charcoal detox face mask to give your pores a fresh start. One use of this will have you feeling like you just came out of a top-notch facial appointment.
5. Massage Tools
Booking a massage is a luxury everyone deserves. Physical touch can heal us in ways we didn’t know we needed. Hiring an at-home masseuse is an option if you’re craving physical touch; if this doesn’t align with your budget, purchasing massage tools can also be a great option. A stressful work week can give us tension in our neck and back, leading to discomfort. This neck massager can smooth out all the tension from that triggering work project. Relax on your couch and let the magic of the massager do all the hard work for you.
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Elevate Your Christmas Feast With These Chef-Approved Holiday Dishes Every Dinner Table Needs
The holidays are a time to be grateful for the things that bring us joy and ease daily. It’s also a time when we should be thankful for those responsible for cooking Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. The pressure to cook a dinner for our loved ones can come with a lot of stress. Despite the menu being the same yearly - turkey or ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, veggies, rice, and a good pumpkin or sweet potato pie! Cooking one of the most important dinners of the year can be a lot on any holiday host's plate.
Chef D. Arthur is a personal chef and an event caterer who knows the pressure of cooking for many people. Arthur says, “You gotta remember that people are grateful for you stepping into the role of creating this environment, especially the people who can’t cook.” It’s also important to acknowledge that cooking for the holiday season is a choice that should be made in good spirits and mental health. “Food is a universal love language,” says Arthur, “I think it’s such a great way to connect, but it should be done out of love.”
If you’re mentally and physically ready to shake things up this holiday season, we've got you! Chef D. Arthur has curated his go-to recipes that anyone can use if they’re tired of keeping things traditional. Arthur adds, “These recipes can be achieved by beginner cooks and those who’ve been in the kitchen for some time now.” Show off to your family members with these not-so-complicated but extra-fancy holiday dishes!
Honey Pecan Banana Pudding
“If you are allergic to nuts, you can stick to traditional cream cheese with this recipe,” says Arthur. This recipe is dairy-free and lactose-friendly; just substitute the milk for almond or oat milk. Banana pudding is a heavy dessert best suited for large families. This recipe can serve a family size of six, with seconds!
What You'll Need:
- 1 - 5 oz. box of instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk (Whole, almond, oat)
- 1 - 14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 - 8 oz. package of honey pecan cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 - 12 oz. container of frozen whipped cream
- 6-8 bananas, sliced
- 2 bags of vanilla wafers
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Supplies:
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 large casserole dish/dessert bowl
- Whisk/blender
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer or whisk.
- Next, add the cream cheese, condensed milk, and cinnamon to the same bowl and mix until smooth.
- Lastly, fold the whipped topping into the mixture until smooth.
- Layer your dessert dish with pudding mixture, then bananas and wafer until you reach the top.
- Add chopped pecans. Let cool for up to an hour.
Homemade Sweet Potato Thanksgiving Pie
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Sweet Potato Pie Truffles
Who doesn’t love holiday leftovers? You can turn last night's dessert into a sweet family treat! “This desert is perfect for those who have kids. It’s a simple, fun recipe that can be a great family activity,” says Chef D. Arthur.
What You'll Need:
- 5 large slices of sweet potato pie
- 1 cup of dark unsweetened chocolate chips, add more if necessary
- Finely chopped walnuts (optional)
Supplies:
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 microwavable bowl for chocolate
- Wax paper
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mash sweet potato pie slices.
- Take 2 tablespoons of sweet potato mixture and form into a ball. Repeat until all of the mixture has been used. The sweet potato balls should look like meatballs.
- Once done, set aside on a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
- Freeze balls for 10-15 minutes until they harden.
- In a medium glass bowl, melt chocolate chips in the microwave for 30 seconds.
- Coat each sweet potato ball in chocolate using two spoons or your hands (with gloves). Cover the entire ball with chocolate and sit on parchment paper. Adding finely chopped walnuts to the outside of your balls is optional.
- Refrigerate for an hour and serve.
Blackened Green Beans
Green beans are a staple at any significant dinner party. Blackened green beans might be the trick if you want to eat healthy, but still enjoy a little flavor! Chef. D Arthur says, “This recipe is healthy but extra flavorful, and you’re not overboiling the nutrients.”
What You'll Need:
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
- 1/2 medium purple onion, sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed
- Blackened or cajun seasoning (to taste)
Supplies:
- Medium-sized spot
- Large skillet, preferably cast iron
- Colander (strainer)
- Large bowl with ice water
Instructions:
- Bring water to boil on medium-high heat in a large pot filled with 60% water.
- In batches, boil green beans for 1-2 minutes. Remove and place in ice water.
- Remove green beans from ice water and drain until completely dry.
- Add cooking oil to bast iron or large skillet on medium-high heat.
- Add green beans, peppers, onions, and blackened/cajun seasoning. Cook until green beans are tender with a slight crunch. It should take 3-4 minutes.
- Stir often to ensure all green beans are coated in seasoning. Cook in batches if necessary.
Turkey Dinner
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Easy Turkey And Dumplings
Leftover turkey is arguably one of the best things about Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners; however, there’s only so much turkey one person can take. Chef D. Arthur reminds us, “There is so much you can do with leftover turkey, and this is just one of those ways to spice it up.”
What You'll Need:
- 2 cups of shredded turkey, bones, and skin discarded
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped or 1 cup of shredded carrots
- 3 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 can refrigerated biscuits, 8-count
- 3 tablespoons of cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon of cajun seasoning
- 1 - 32 oz. chicken broth/stock
- 1 - 10.75 oz. can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Supplies:
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 cutting board
- 1 chef's knife
- Rolling pin (optional)
- 1 large stirring spoon
- 1 medium-sized mixing bowl
Instructions:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil on medium-high heat in a Dutch oven or large pot.
- Add shredded turkey and cajun seasoning. Cook until warm and remove from pot.
- Add the remaining tablespoons of cooking oil and add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook vegetables until tender for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add turkey, chicken broth, cream of chicken, and poultry seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce heat to medium. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Stretch or roll each pre-made biscuit until thin, then cut into fours. Roll each fourth into a small round ball (dumpling style). Adding salt, pepper, or fresh herbs to each dumpling to taste is optional.
- Add dumplings to the turkey mixture, one at a time. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot. Let simmer and thicken for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally with the back end of the stirring spoon. Add some water or broth to loosen if your mixture gets too thick.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
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