Who were the Anasazi? They are one of the most mysterious Native American tribes to grace our earth. Because the way they disappeared from their settlements some reported saying they just up and vanished without a trace. But Anasazi were renowned cliff dwelling people who lived in what is know today as the Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. The Anasazi is actually a Navaho word meaning “ancient ones”, and they flourished over 2,000 years ago living in intricate honeycombed pueblos onto of huge mesas. And these fascinating homes were more like sky homes reaching off the ground on these high ledges for protective purposes. But the Anasazi left their homes never to return. This is a version of a meal traditional meal in their honor:
Pueblo Rice and Beans
What you will need:
1/2 Cup chopped Onion 1/4 Cup Chopped Green Peppers 1 Clove Garlic, Minced 1/2 tsp Dried Basil 2Tbs Olive Oil 2 Cups Water 1 Cup Uncooked Rice 1 Ripe Tomato, Chopped with Juice 1 tsp Salt 1/8 tsp Black Pepper 1 Cup Cooked Red Beans 2 tsp Hot Sauce
In a large skillet sate onion, pepper, garlic and basil in olive oil. Thin stir in water, rice and remaining ingredients, except for the beans. Cover and cook for 5 minutes. Now serve with corn bread and I like to add a little sour cream even if sour cream is not traditional but still tastes good with this dish.
Baked Glazed Winter Squash
What you will need:
2 1/2 to 3 lbs of Butternut Squash 1/3 Cups Brown Sugar 2 Tbs Butter 1/2 tsp Cinnamon 1/4 tsp. Nutmeg Pinch of Salt
First wash and peel the squash making sure you trim the stem and the bottom. Now Slice in about 1 inch thick slices. Remove seeds and any strings inside. Now arrange the slices in a large baking pan about a 13 x 9 inch pan. Cover with foil and bake in a 350 degree oven for 45 minutes. Now in a small sauce pan, combine the remaining ingredients and cook over a medium heat and stir until the sugars dissolve. Remove the squash from the oven and throw away the foil. Lastly pour syrup over the squash and return back to the oven uncovered and bake for 15 minutes longer.