Nancy's Kitchen

Nancy McWhorter - For The Record

Dorothy Parks is not only my hairdresser but also a dear friend. She is the proprietor of the “Hair Teasers Beauty Shop”, 218 Pecanview, Minden. She cuts my hair once a month, usually on a Friday. I prefer Fridays because all four of the hairdressers are there that day and it is a day of fun and relaxation. Besides my hair looking better, I leave there light hearted and uplifted.

Last month Dorothy was kind enough to change my scheduled Friday appointment to Thursday because my daughter, Carol, invited me to go with her to the Lester Vegetable stand in Coushatta that Friday. It was an opportunity I did not want to miss because you know how much I like fresh vegetables. That appointment was quite different than Friday’s. Hairdresser Gloria had left for the day so I was the only client; a rare occasion, just Dorothy and me, one on one.

How can I describe Dorothy? She is a big hearted person that is obviously devoted to her husband, family and friends. She often talks about her dear sisters that apparently have a close bond.

As soon as anyone enters Dorothy’s shop that person immediately feels welcomed and comfortable.

Dorothy enjoys working on jig-saw puzzles and has an ongoing puzzle on a table that anyone is welcomed to work on if they wish.

There is a bookcase of books and magazines customers have contributed that anyone is invited to take and keep if desired.

On top of the bookcase you will find jars of jellies and condiments she is happy to sale for friends and/or customers.

Dorothy collects coco-cola memorabilia displayed throughout the shop and even has an old coco-cola dispensing machine.

There are always snacks and hot water to make a cup of flavored coffee available for anyone that wants to indulge.

It is a joy to be in that shop.

That Thursday Dorothy and my conversation as so often does turned to cooking. Besides all Dorothy’s talents, she also takes pleasure in cooking. She told me about this recipe I am sharing with you this week. I realize it is early for the holiday season but you can save it for that time. It must be a KEEPER because she has had so many requests for the recipe she keeps extra copies on hand. I like it because while it is cooking in the crock pot, it frees up time to visit with guests.

My time with Dorothy certainly blesses my life.

Crock Pot Chicken and Dressing

(From the recipe files of Dorothy Parks)

1 pan crumbled cornbread

2 slices bread, toasted (in torn pieces)

1 small onion, chopped

2 celery sticks, chopped

2 hard-boiled eggs

1 to 2 tsps. Sage (to your own taste)

1 to 2 tsps. Poultry seasoning

2 (10 ½ oz.) cans cream of chicken soup

½ stick butter, melted

Salt and pepper to taste

1 (14.5 oz.) can chicken broth

5 boneless, skinless, cooked chicken breasts (Or a store bought rotisserie chicken)

In a large bowl, mix cornbread and toasted bread pieces; add onions, celery, hard-boiled eggs, sage and poultry seasoning. Stir to mix. Add 1 can chicken cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and salt & pepper and as much chicken broth as needed. Gently mix everything together. *Spray crock pot with cooking spray. Spread ½ can the second can of cream of chicken soup on the bottom of crock pot. Top with 1/3 dressing mix. Add ½ chopped chicken. Top with 1/3 dressing mixture; the remaining chicken and the rest of the dressing. Spread the remaining ½ can of chicken soup on top. Cook on low for 4 hours.

*NOTE: For easier cleanup, use a disposable crock pot liner available in the plastic bags section of the grocery store.