Monday's Meal

Err... breakfast. This is actually just another variation of the muffin recipe I use. I learned how to do the variations from Tightwad Gazette (#2 has an interesting article on muffin making). You may remember Chocolate Chip muffins from another Monday's Meal. These are what I call Hearty muffins.

Originally, my children shunned these. They were young enough that they were at that no variations stage where they could eat the same thing every day for the next 10 years. They liked the chocolate chip ones and saw any change as sacrilege. Now, however, they really like these. Still not as much as the chocolate chip, but I don't have the struggle to get them to eat them anymore.

Their favorite (and mine) variation is either the sausage or bacon and cheese combo. I imagine there are a lot of other combinations you could add to the list. Just consider that a partial list and have a little fun with it. Homemade muffins are cheap enough to make that, even if they aren't a hit, it doesn't hurt to try something that sounds like it might be good. I have thought that shredded carrots and maybe, raisins might make a good variation. If you go with something that needs a little sweet, you may want to adjust the sugar up a little and possibly add some cinnamon or other spices.

And, of course, if you find a good combination, by all means -- SHARE. So have a little fun with this one and enjoy.

Hearty Muffins

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg, slightly beaten
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
-any combination of the following-
1/2 cup fried crumbled sausage
1/2 cup shredded cheese
2 tablespoons grated onion
3 strips fried, crumbled bacon
1/2 cup shredded zucchini
2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and combination ingredients. Combine buttermilk, egg, and butter or margarine in separate bowl. Pour milk combination into center of dry ingredients. Mix just until moistened. Spoon batter into muffin cups. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes until done.