### The Craft of Freezer-Batched Cocktails: Slushy Paper Planes

In the world of cocktail crafting, batching has surfaced as an effective and enjoyable technique for preparing drinks that can be served instantly. This method not only conserves time but also guarantees that cocktails are enjoyed at their ideal temperature, avoiding dilution from melting ice. A prime illustration of this technique is the Slushy Paper Plane, a charming frozen cocktail that merges simplicity with elegance.

#### The Idea of Batching Cocktails

Batching cocktails entails creating a larger volume of a drink beforehand, enabling quick serving when visitors arrive. This strategy can be especially advantageous for spontaneous get-togethers, as it changes the host’s experience from hurried mixing to leisurely hosting. By storing cocktails in the freezer, they stay icy chilled and ready for enjoyment.

#### The Mechanics of Freezing Cocktails

Most cocktails, when frozen, maintain a liquid form due to the alcohol content, which has a lower freezing temperature than water. Nonetheless, some lower-proof cocktails can reach a slushy texture when frozen. The Paper Plane cocktail, featuring components like lemon juice and Aperol, serves as a prime example of this effect. When frozen, it evolves into a refreshing slushy consistency that is both thick and pourable, providing a distinctive drinking experience.

#### Creating the Ideal Slushy Paper Plane

The Slushy Paper Plane is based on a straightforward 1:1:1:1 ratio, making it simple to adjust according to the needed amount. The ingredients consist of:

– 3/4 cup bourbon
– 3/4 cup amaro nonino
– 3/4 cup Aperol
– 3/4 cup lemon juice

To make it, combine all ingredients in a jar and place it in the freezer for at least overnight. The mix can be kept for an extended period without going bad. When it’s time to serve, give the mixture a stir to achieve an even slushy consistency, and then pour it into glasses—either tall coupe glasses or shorter glasses with ice.

#### Savoring the Slushy Paper Plane

The Slushy Paper Plane is not only visually striking with its bright orange color but also presents a well-balanced flavor profile. The bourbon contributes smoothness, the amaro blends the flavors, and the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang. This cocktail evokes the pleasure of savoring a popsicle on a sunny day, yet it demands minimal effort to prepare.

In summary, freezer-batched cocktails like the Slushy Paper Plane enhance the art of hosting, facilitating effortless entertaining while offering a delightful drinking experience. Adopt this technique and amaze your friends with a cocktail that is both simple to create and wonderfully refreshing.

Mango season has arrived! I’m honoring it with a guide on how to prepare mango, whether you prefer it sliced or diced. Mango ranks among the world’s beloved fruits, though I didn’t eat it during my childhood and had to learn its preparation. I’ve experimented with various techniques, and today I’m sharing the best way to cut a mango.

Mango has a taste reminiscent of a juicy tropical peach, featuring hints of honey. Even when perfectly ripe, it often possesses a slight tanginess, compelling me to indulge again. I enjoy incorporating mango for a touch of sweetness in salads, salsas, and savory dishes—not to mention munching on them.

Mangoes reach their prime in the summer months, usually from May to September. I’ve been thrilled to discover Ataulfo mangoes (also referred to as honey or Champagne) on sale at Whole Foods recently. That’s the variety illustrated here, known for being particularly creamy and tasty. My preparation techniques apply to any variety or size of mango!

Mango Preparation Tips

How to Determine if a Mango is Ripe

Seek out mangoes that give slightly under gentle pressure, akin to a ripe avocado or peach. It should display a bright hue, which varies based on the type, and emit a sweet aroma at the stem end.

Underripe mangoes will feel quite firm. Steer clear of overripe ones that have wrinkled skin or brown spots—they may be overly sweet but tend to have a more stringy and mushy texture inside.

Watch How to Prepare Mango

You’ll find written directions in the recipe at the end of the post. For visuals, take a look at this short video:

Note on Mango Skin

If you’re asking, “Can I just eat the skin of a mango?” the answer is technically yes, but you may prefer not to. The skin contains fiber and nutrients, but I’ve been told it’s not particularly palatable.

Mango skin can cause irritation to human skin due to its urushiol content, the same compound found in poison ivy that can lead to contact dermatitis. As someone with sensitive skin, I take care not to ingest mango directly from the skin.

How to Serve Fresh Mango

Ripe mango makes for a tasty snack by itself. I enjoy it with a dash of chili-lime seasoning like Tajín, which provides a salty-spicy contrast to the sweetness.

You can freeze diced mango for smoothies or simply to save extra. To stop the pieces from clumping together, arrange the mango on a parchment paper-lined tray, freeze until solid, then move it to a freezer bag.

Mango pairs particularly well with ingredients such as black beans, berries, chili peppers, cilantro, coconut, ginger, lime, mint, red onion, peanuts, pineapple, and yogurt. Many of these ingredients feature in the recipes below.

Recipes with Fresh Mango

Here are several recipes highlighting mango on Cookie and Kate. You’ll notice that I love blending sweet mango with savory and spicy flavors for equilibrium:

Please share your experience with this method in the comments. I enjoy receiving your feedback.

How to Cut a Mango

Discover how to slice or dice a mango! It’s simple once you’re familiar with this technique. Prepare as many mangoes as necessary, and consult the recipe notes for freezing guidance.

Instructions:
1. With one hand, position the mango upright with the stem on top. Utilize a sharp chef’s knife to remove one broad side of the mango, about ½-inch from the center (if you encounter something hard or hear a scratching noise, you’re too close to the pit and need to cut further from the center). Next, cut off the other side similarly.
2. Taking one piece at a time, gently run your knife through the flesh (don’t apply too much pressure or you’ll cut the skin). For sliced mango, make long, narrow vertical cuts. For diced mango, create wider vertical cuts followed by horizontal cuts to form a grid pattern. You can likely slice more flesh from each side of the pit and score it as well.
3. Employ a large spoon to remove the flesh from the skin, then use your slices or cubes as desired. If your mango was sizeable, you might manage to carve out a bit more flesh around the pit, though these pieces won’t be uniform like the others—they’re great for snacking!

Notes:
To freeze leftover mango: Place the mango on a parchment paper-lined tray that fits into your freezer. Freeze until the mango is solid, then transfer it to a freezer bag.

**Dazzle Your Guests with These Simple Appetizer Recipes**

When throwing a get-together, the right starters can establish the atmosphere for the entire occasion. Whether you’re getting ready for an unexpected drop-in, attending a friend’s celebration, or hosting an elaborate meal, having a collection of quick and tasty appetizers is crucial. This guide presents a variety of the simplest and most enjoyable appetizer recipes that are guaranteed to wow your guests.

**1. Silky Avocado Dip**
A charming variation of classic guacamole, this silky avocado dip requires merely four essential ingredients. Ideal as a party dip alongside vegetables or chips, it also pairs well with tacos, nachos, and quesadillas. The recipe produces approximately 1 1/2 cups, but feel free to double it for larger events.

**2. Luscious Mango Salsa**
Vibrant and appealing, this mango salsa is both sweet and spicy. It’s an adaptable dish that goes well with chips, tacos, salads, or can even be savored by itself. The recipe yields about 3 cups of salsa, making it an excellent option for sharing.

**3. Charred Shishito Peppers**
These peppers provide a straightforward yet captivating appetizer. With just shishitos, olive oil, and a skillet, you can whip up a dish that serves 4. For bigger crowds, simply double the recipe.

**4. Pimento Cheese Spread**
This spreadable cheese is a hit with crowds, delivering a cheesy, tangy, and spicy flavor. The recipe yields 2 cups, making it perfect for slathering on crackers or bread.

**5. Kalamata Bean Dip**
Crafted with pantry basics, this white bean dip is enhanced with Kalamata olives and optional fresh basil. It produces about 1 3/4 cups, making it a practical and delicious choice for any occasion.

**6. Ideal Stovetop Popcorn**
Skip the microwave popcorn for this stovetop alternative that takes under 10 minutes to prepare. The recipe yields around 10 cups, providing sufficient servings for about 4.

**7. Top-Notch Red Salsa (Ready in 10 Minutes)**
This genuine Mexican salsa is fresh and tasty, needing only 6 ingredients and 10 minutes to whip up. The recipe yields 2 cups but can easily be increased for larger gatherings.

**8. Green Goddess Hummus**
Infused with fresh herbs, this green hummus offers a delightful twist on the classic. The recipe yields approximately 1 3/4 cups and can be tailored with your preferred herbs.

**9. Zesty Red Pepper & Feta Dip**
Drawing inspiration from Greek cuisine, this roasted red pepper and feta dip is bold and piquant. The recipe produces 1 1/2 cups and can be doubled for bigger parties.

**10. Dill Pickle Spread**
Rich and creamy, this dill pickle spread is a healthier homemade alternative that’s ready in just 10 minutes. It yields about 3 1/2 cups, sufficient for 7 to 10 servings.

**11. Simple Tapenade**
This fresh-flavored French olive spread pairs perfectly with crackers, crostini, or cheese platters. The recipe yields 1 1/2 cups of tapenade.

**12. Easy Caprese Skewers**
Featuring cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls, these skewers are drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. The recipe produces around 20 skewers, making it perfect for summer celebrations.

**13. Effortless Blue Cheese Dip**
This creamy blue cheese dip complements Buffalo Cauliflower, bell pepper, celery, or carrot sticks. The recipe yields about 2 cups.

**14. Quick Quesadillas (Ready in 10 Minutes)**
Fast and simple, these vegetarian quesadillas are ready in under 10 minutes. The recipe yields 1 quesadilla (3 slices), but can be multiplied as necessary.

**15. Green Goddess Tahini Spread**
This vegan spread is perfect alongside crudités, crackers, or pita wedges. The recipe yields a generous 1 cup.

**16. Rosemary Roasted Nuts**
These party nuts offer a blend of spicy, sweet, and herbed flavors. The recipe yields 5 1/2 cups, making it an excellent snacking option.

**17. Silky Spinach Artichoke Dip**
A classic comfort dish, this hot and creamy dip is simple to prepare with basic ingredients. The recipe yields 2 cups, but can be doubled for larger gatherings.

**18. Crunchy Roasted Chickpeas**
Extra crispy and bursting with flavor, these roasted chickpeas are a versatile snack. The recipe yields 1 scant cup, with guidance for doubling.

**19. Strawberry Salsa**
Vivid and simple to prepare, this strawberry salsa is ideal for spring or summer events. The recipe yields enough for 4 to 6 servings.

**20. Baked Goat Cheese**
This creamy, honey-drizzled baked goat cheese is a swift and simple

# Traditional Skillet Challah French Toast with Berry Sauce and Whipped Cottage Cheese

Every cook should have a recipe for traditional, reliable skillet French toast. This particular version is noteworthy as it makes use of challah bread, resulting in a light, rich, and subtly sweet French toast with crispy edges and a custardy center. The addition of a berry sauce and whipped cottage cheese enhances this meal to a brunch-worthy status, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed weekend breakfast or brunch.

## Ingredients

### For the Berry Sauce:
– 2 cups (10 ounces) mixed frozen berries
– 2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
– 3 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons water, divided
– 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

### For the Whipped Cottage Cheese:
– 2 cups (16 ounces or 455 grams) cottage cheese, whole or low-fat
– 1 tablespoon (15 grams) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

### For the French Toast:
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups (340 grams) milk, any type
– 1 large (1-lb) loaf of challah bread, sliced into 1 to 1.5-inch thick pieces
– Butter for the skillet, salted or unsalted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

## Directions

### Prepare the Berry Sauce:
1. In a small saucepan, mix the frozen berries, sugar, salt, and 3 tablespoons of water. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat and let it simmer while stirring occasionally until the berries thaw and form a sauce, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with the remaining 2 teaspoons of water, and then stir this into the berry sauce. Simmer for another minute until it slightly thickens.
4. Off the heat, add lemon juice to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and set aside.

### Prepare the Whipped Cottage Cheese:
1. In a food processor or powerful blender, blend the cottage cheese, sugar, and vanilla until completely smooth and airy. Adjust sweetness as desired. Spoon into a serving dish and set aside.

### Prepare the French Toast:
1. In a large bowl or baking dish, whisk together the eggs and vanilla until well combined. Slowly add in the milk while continuing to whisk.
2. Heat a large skillet on medium-low for about two minutes. A drop of water should dance in the pan when it’s ready.
3. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Dip the challah slices in the egg-milk mixture, soaking briefly before turning over to soak the other side.
4. Place the soaked challah slices in the skillet and cook until browned on the bottom, around 2 to 3 minutes. If they are browning too slowly, increase the heat to medium. Flip and cook until the second side is browned. Transfer to a serving plate and repeat with the rest of the slices, adding more butter as required.

### To Serve:
1. Dust the cooked challah French toast with powdered sugar. Arrange two slices on a plate, add a dollop of whipped cottage cheese, and pour some berry sauce on top. Serve immediately.

## Notes:
– The berry sauce can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and will keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
– Whipped cottage cheese remains good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
– French toast can be kept warm in a 200°F oven until you are ready to serve. Leftover French toast can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
– If challah is unavailable, brioche bread can be used as an alternative.
– For firmer or older challah, allow it to soak longer in the egg-milk mixture prior to frying.

This traditional skillet French toast recipe is straightforward yet delectable, ideal for impressing guests or savoring a leisurely breakfast at home.

It’s a fan-favorite!
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