Pears & Mayonnaise?

I had forgotten all about these two things until Aunt Vicki sent me her cookbook entry. Most of you will probably say, "Potato candy and mayonnaise on pears... gross!" But really, it's not what it seems. Honestly, you just gotta try it! Thanks Aunt Vicki! <3

I apologize for my inconsistent posts lately, since Jeremy has been back to work, things have been a little hectic. I promise to get back to posting regular posts a.s.a.p.!! =)

Holiday Potato Candy

     During the 20 years I was a Norton, it was imperative that I make the “famous” potato candy for Christmas every year. The first time I heard of “Potato Candy” I thought my new husband was insane (which later proved to be semi-true). Anyway, I digress, how you make this yummy, and yes, I MEAN yummy, treat is to take one large Russet Potato and boil till it is easily poked with a fork. Once it is VERY soft, remove the potato from the water and peal the skin off. Mash that sucker up and slowly add almost all of a box of confectioner’s sugar (reserve the rest to pour out onto the wax paper). Mix up this mess. Pour the rest of the confectioners sugar on the wax paper. (Tip: wet your counter top and then spread the wax paper on this so it will stick to the counter) Spread the Confectioners sugar out and dump the potato mess on this and roll out like a pie crust-BUT not as thin. Once it is evenly rolled out, spread peanut butter (your choice smooth or crunchy) on to the rolled out potato mix.  Then take one end of the wax paper and begin to roll the potato mixture up (don’t include the wax paper in this-it is just a guide). Once it is rolled up into a type of potato/peanut log, take dental floss (a butter knife works well too, but this makes a cleaner cut) and slice into nice sized disks. Refrigerate and enjoy in about and hour.

Pear Salad

     The last contribution I have was a staple at every large family meal/gathering I attended after I became a Norton, Pear Salad. This is also the easiest thing to make. Go to the store and purchase a large can of Del Monte Pears that are cut in half. (Cut in half is very important because then you can cram the other ingredients into the cavity left by the removed center). Place the pears on a plate and place a large teaspoon of “Blue Plate” (God help you if you use any other brand because then it just isn’t the same----whatever) mayonnaise in the “hole.” Then sprinkle (mild or sharp-your choice again) cheddar cheese on the mayonnaise and eat.