Crafting and Cooking

Outdoor Wreaths

This week  I have been crafting up a storm. Unfortunately though, since they are all Christmas presents I cannot post them on here. In addition to crating gifts, I have been able to squeeze in making some fake wreaths for the outside of my house, making some holiday cards to send out to distant friends and family, and cooking a lot of delicious meals. Speaking of delicious meals, last night I made a new soup that was fabulous and very veg friendly. Since I just made it last night for the first time, there are no photos, but I'll add some next time I make this.

Mushroom Leak and Orzo Soup

8oz mixed mushrooms. Use whatever kind you like
2 medium leaks, sliced thin and cleaned thoroughly
1/2 cup uncooked orzo
1/2 lb (1 bag) baby spinach
2 tbsp butter
1tbsp olive oil
1-2 cloves fresh garlic
1/2 cup dry white wine
6 cups chicken or vegetable stock

Melt butter in large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and leaks. Saute until leaks begin to soften, then add mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms begin to soften and leaks are translucent. Add 1/2 cup dry white wine, and cook until liquid is reduced by 1/2.  Add chicken or veggie stock, and add fresh garlic. Season with a bit of pepper and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.

15-20 minutes before serving, bring soup to a rolling boil and add Orzo and Spinach.  Orzo will take about 9-10 minutes to cook through,  but be sure to check every few minutes to see if it is done. When Orzo is cooked through, reduce heat to low, and you are ready to eat.


Seriously, this is good and really really simple. If you are a mushroom lover, you can always add more mushrooms too!