One of the pros of our new self-isolation life is that we are learning our way around the kitchen and getting quite domesticated. Grocery store runs are the new social events of the season and our dinner tables are the new five-star restaurants. We all have at least five recipes we have learned while adulting, but every now and then we want to try something new.
Did you know there are emotional benefits to cooking? Studies show that it boosts confidence, increases concentration, and encourages creativity. The Wall Street Journalreported that therapists even recommend cooking classes as a way to treat depression and anxiety, and addiction. Talk about benefits!
As we make the kitchen our sanctuary, we have to give props to one of the best things ever invented: the slow cooker. Its versatility brings so much flavor and comfort to meals. If you don't have a slow cooker, I need you to add it to your Amazon cart immediately! The advantages of using a slow cooker are second to none, from the optimal distribution of flavors to the fact that you can leave a slow cooker on for hours.
Ahead, you'll find some slow cooker recipes that will make you think about slapping ya mama (because we know you were raised better than that).
Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli Recipe
This savory and healthy meal can bring some comfort during these unprecedented times. We love this recipe from Chef Savvy. Adding some white rice or riced cauliflower for an additional side can take it to the next level.
INGREDIENTS
- Chuck Steak
- Beef Broth
- Soy Sauce
- Garlic
- Oyster Sauce
- Light Brown Sugar
- Sesame Oil
- Cornstarch
- Broccoli
Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Your city may be experiencing some lower temperatures so this tortilla soup will keep you warm and satisfied. The fried tortilla strips will change your life, thanks to Delish's recipe. It's also packed with tons of protein.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 115-oz. can black beans, rinsed
- 1 c.frozen corn
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 1 15-oz. can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1/4 c. freshly chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. cumin
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 2 c. low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 c. shredded Monterey jack
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
- Sliced avocado, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Sliced avocado, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
Slow-Cooker Salmon With Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe
We challenge you to try this new and innovative way to cook salmon. Diet Hood's formula allows you set it, forget it and then indulge in a super juicy piece of fish packed with powerful flavor. Looking for a side? Try some garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus.
INGREDIENTS FOR THE SALMON
- 3 lemons, divided
- 1.5 to 2 pounds skin-on salmon fillet
- Cooking spray
- Salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules, or garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
Slow Cooker Bourbon Short Ribs with Cheesy Grits Recipe
This recipe is for the aspiring chef that's about that life. My mouth is watering simply looking at this photo. Imagine what your kitchen will smell like as you prepare this delectable meal for you and bae in Cafe Quarantine. Simply Recipe's instructions walk us through how to get the short ribs just right.
INGREDIENTS
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 to 4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large shallot, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 bay leaf
- Orange zest, for garnish
Crock-Pot Breakfast Casserole Recipe
For me, breakfast is the hardest thing to prepare so I am obsessed with this casserole. It combines all of my favorite things and requires very little effort.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb. bacon
- Cooking spray
- 12 large eggs
- 1 c. whole milk
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 lb. frozen hash browns
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 c. shredded cheddar
- Freshly chopped chives, for garnish
- Freshly chopped chives, for garnish
Slow Cooker Tacos Al Pastor Recipe
Taco Tuesday has never looked so amazing! Prepare some chips and salsa, guacamole and margaritas with a fan favorite, Taco Al Pastor. Fun fact: Tacos al pastor were created in the 1930s in Puebla, Mexico, by Lebanese immigrants who introduced the region to classic shawarma: roast lamb served on a flour tortilla or pita bread (pan árabe).
INGREDIENTS
- 1 (5-pound) boneless pork shoulder roast (Boston butt), extra fat trimmed off
- 1 (12-oz.) bottle of beer (I used Modelo Negra, or use chicken stock if making this gluten-free)
- 2 chipotles in adobo sauce
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored, then roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 3 tablespoons chili powder (not cayenne)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- corn tortillas, for serving
- optional toppings: crumbled goat cheese, (extra) diced fresh pineapple, chopped fresh cilantro leaves, chopped red onions, diced avocado, thinly-sliced radishes
Getty Images
Loaded Slow-Cooker Potatoes
Loaded Slow-Cooker Potatoes may be the easiest meal on this list. You can pair them with a protein or eat it as its own dish. No matter your choice, you will thoroughly enjoy this comfort food. For more flavor, try using multiple types of cheese.
INGREDIENTS
- Cooking spray
- 2 lb. baby potatoes, halved and quartered if large
- 3 c. shredded Cheddar
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 8 slices bacon, cooked
- 1/4 c. sliced green onions, plus more for garnish
- 1 tbsp. paprika
- kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Sour cream, drizzling
Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil Recipe
Take a mental trip to NOLA with this shrimp boil recipe from The Kitchn. You can even add some crab legs if you're feeling saucy. Who knows, you could even do a lit mukbang aka an online audiovisual broadcast where a host eats food while interacting with the world wide web.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 1/2 pounds small red-skinned potatoes (about 15), quartered
- 1 pound smoked Andouille or kielbasa sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 ears corn, shucked, cut into thirds crosswise
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
- 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
- 1 medium lemon, halved, plus wedges for serving
- 6 cups water
- 2 pounds large raw shrimp (16 to 20 per pound), cleaned and peeled but with tails left on, thawed if frozen
- For serving: chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, freshly ground black pepper, melted butter, and hot sauce
Asian Lettuce Wraps (Crock Pot or Stovetop) Recipe
Looking to add an easy but healthy recipe to your repertoire? Well Plated by Erin's recipe has you covered. The sesame oil and soy sauce are essential to this recipe so make sure you do taste tests throughout the preparation.
INGREDIENTS
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce — plus 1 tablespoon, use tamari to make gluten free
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 pounds ground chicken breast
- 1 small bunch green onions — thinly sliced, white/light green and dark green parts divided
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic — minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 8 ounces baby bella cremini mushrooms — finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cup grated carrots — from about 3 large carrots
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes — reduce to 1/4 teaspoon or omit if sensitive to spice
- 2 cans water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped — (8 ounce cans) drained and finely chopped
- 2 heads butter lettuce
Crock-Pot French Toast Recipe
French toast is my favorite breakfast staple so I was extremely intrigued when I saw that you can make it in a crockpot. The picture looks fire so I can't wait to try this buttery goodness.
INGREDIENTS
- Cooking spray, for Crock-Pot
- 1 large brioche (or challah), preferably day-old
- 8 large eggs
- 2 c. half-and-half
- 1/3 c. granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- small pinch nutmeg
- Maple syrup, for serving
- small pinch nutmeg
- Powdered sugar, for serving
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Joce Blake is a womanist who loves fashion, Beyonce and Hot Cheetos. The sophistiratchet enthusiast is based in Brooklyn, NY but has southern belle roots as she was born and raised in Memphis, TN. Keep up with her on Instagram @joce_blake and on Twitter @SaraJessicaBee.
Reset Your Relationship: How To Start 2025 Strong With Your Partner
As the calendar turns and a new year unfolds, many of us are laser-focused on our career goals, fitness resolutions, and vision boards that outline the journey to our best selves. But amidst all the planning and self-improvement, have you made room for another important part of your life? Your relationship.
It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Step 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Step 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
Step 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
Alaska Wasn’t On My Bucket List, But My Glacier Adventure Made Me A Believer
We all have bucket list destinations at the top of our lists. I visited one of those at the top of 2024: Japan! But what happens when you get an opportunity to go someplace that wasn’t on it? For me, that was Alaska. Now, I’d submitted my short film to the Anchorage International Film Festival, genuinely thinking it would be a long shot to get in with a short film about fibroids and Black women’s health.
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
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Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert