November is approaching and many of us are getting excited for fall and all the foods it brings. A good old reliable Pumpkin Spice latte from Hebrews might satisfy your craving for a fall-flavored treat, but sometimes you might want something more.
For anyone who cannot get enough of fall food, but does not have access to the necessary cooking appliances, there are many seasonal foods to prepare on the fly in the comfort of a dorm room.
Usually, all that is needed is a microwave, measuring utensils, and a microwave-safe mug or bowl. Typically, all glass mugs and bowls are microwave safe, but be sure to check the labels on the mug or bowl just to be safe.
One such recipe is a festive take on hot chocolate. Simply add cinnamon to taste to a traditionally prepared cup of hot chocolate to create the taste of fall. To add authentic New England flavor, add some whip cream and drizzle maple syrup on top.
Another recipe for those anticipating Thanksgiving is the Pumpkin Pie Mug. This recipe uses a 10-ounce mug. The ingredients needed are cookie crumbs (gingersnap are suggested), unsalted butter, pumpkin puree, one large egg, milk or cream, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. Microwave the butter in the mug until melted and stir in the cookie crumbs, then pack the mixture firmly against the bottom of the mug. In a separate container, mix the pumpkin puree, egg, milk or cream, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon and pour into the mug. Microwave for 2-5 minutes or until either a knife or toothpick comes out clean. Let the mug cool for a few minutes and enjoy!
Chili is also an easy microwave fall favorite. The only ingredients needed are ground beef, finely chopped onion, stewed tomatoes, chili powder, mustard, kidney beans, salt and pepper. In a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl, mix the beef with the onion, cover, and microwave for 5 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink. If any pink is still visible, mix the beef well and microwave again until the meat is cooked through. Next, stir in tomatoes, mustard, and chili powder, turn on microwave at HIGH for 10 minutes. Finally mix in the beans and microwave on HIGH for 3 more minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, starting with a pinch of each and working from there until your taste buds are satisfied.
While there are many festive recipes to try, these are a few to get you started to satisfy your fall food cravings.