Black Friday & Cyber Monday Kitchen Deals: Delicious Recipes to Celebrate Your Savings!
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are prime times to snag incredible deals on kitchen appliances, gadgets, and cookware. But what’s the point of a shiny new Instant Pot or a high-powered blender if you don’t have delicious recipes to put them to use? This year, don’t just shop the sales – prepare to create culinary magic with these mouthwatering recipes, designed to showcase the capabilities of your newly acquired kitchen treasures.
This guide combines the thrill of Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping with the joy of cooking. We’ll present recipes perfectly suited to the appliances you might find on sale, providing step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure success, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice. So, grab your shopping list, bookmark this page, and get ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of flavor!
## Section 1: Instant Pot Wonders
The Instant Pot is a Black Friday/Cyber Monday staple. Its versatility makes it perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to elaborate weekend meals. Here are some recipe ideas to put your new Instant Pot to the test:
### Recipe 1: Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This comforting classic is elevated with the Instant Pot’s ability to quickly develop rich flavors. The grilled cheese croutons add a touch of whimsy and delicious crunch.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
* 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:
* 4 slices of your favorite bread
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** Turn on the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. **Add Ingredients:** Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
3. **Pressure Cook:** Close the lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 10 minutes.
4. **Natural Pressure Release:** Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
5. **Blend:** Carefully open the lid. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend carefully (hot liquids can splatter).
6. **Stir in Cream:** Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Make Grilled Cheese Croutons:** While the soup is cooking, prepare the grilled cheese croutons. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top each slice with two slices of cheese. Place the remaining slices of bread, butter-side up, on top of the cheese. Cook until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes per side. Cut into croutons.
8. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grilled cheese croutons. Enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a vegan version, use plant-based cream alternative.
* Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer flavor.
* Roast the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the Instant Pot for an even deeper flavor.
* Experiment with different cheeses for the grilled cheese croutons.
### Recipe 2: Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or topping salads, this Instant Pot pulled pork is tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
**Ingredients:**
* 3-4 pound pork shoulder (Boston butt), cut into 2-inch chunks
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the Pork:** Turn on the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil. Season the pork with salt and pepper. Sear the pork in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and set aside.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** Add onion and garlic to the Instant Pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. **Add Ingredients:** Add chicken broth, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir well.
4. **Return Pork to Pot:** Return the pork to the Instant Pot.
5. **Pressure Cook:** Close the lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 60 minutes.
6. **Natural Pressure Release:** Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
7. **Shred the Pork:** Carefully open the lid. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot and toss with the sauce.
8. **Serve:** Serve the pulled pork on buns, tacos, or salads. Enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a dry rub on the pork before searing for extra flavor.
* Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
* Serve with coleslaw, pickles, and your favorite barbecue sides.
## Section 2: Blender Bonanza
A high-quality blender is another must-have kitchen appliance, perfect for smoothies, soups, sauces, and more. Here are some recipes to make the most of your new blender:
### Recipe 1: Green Smoothie Powerhouse
Start your day with this nutrient-packed green smoothie, loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup spinach
* 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
* 1/2 frozen banana
* 1/4 avocado
* 1 tablespoon chia seeds
* 1 cup almond milk (or your favorite milk)
* 1/2 cup water (or more, to adjust consistency)
* Optional: 1 scoop protein powder
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** Add all ingredients to the blender.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. **Serve:** Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different greens, such as kale or romaine lettuce.
* Add other fruits, such as berries or pineapple.
* Boost the protein content with protein powder, Greek yogurt, or nut butter.
* Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for extra flavor.
### Recipe 2: Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting and flavorful soup is perfect for a chilly evening. The blender creates a velvety smooth texture that’s simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: heavy cream or coconut milk for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Roast the Squash:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. **Add Squash and Broth:** Add the roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, sage, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. **Blend:** Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches (hot liquids can splatter). Blend until smooth.
5. **Season and Serve:** Return the soup to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through. Garnish with heavy cream or coconut milk, if desired. Serve warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
* Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons.
* Roast an apple with the butternut squash for a sweeter flavor.
## Section 3: Stand Mixer Magic
A stand mixer is a baker’s best friend. If you snagged one on sale, these recipes will help you create delectable treats:
### Recipe 1: Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
This is a timeless classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. A stand mixer makes it easy to achieve the perfect cookie dough consistency.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. **Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Stir in Chocolate Chips:** Stir in the chocolate chips.
6. **Chill Dough (Optional):** For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
7. **Bake:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
9. **Cool:** Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
*Use different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate.
*Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans.
*Sprinkle with sea salt before baking for a salty-sweet treat.
### Recipe 2: Fluffy Vanilla Cake
This versatile vanilla cake recipe is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. The stand mixer helps create a light and airy batter.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
* 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup milk
* 2 large eggs
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Add Butter and Milk:** Add the softened butter and milk. Mix on low speed until just combined.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Beat:** Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool:** Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. **Frost:** Frost with your favorite frosting.
**Tips and Variations:**
*Use different extracts, such as almond or lemon extract.
*Add sprinkles to the batter for a funfetti cake.
*Frost with chocolate frosting, vanilla buttercream, or cream cheese frosting.
## Section 4: Air Fryer Adventures
Air fryers have become incredibly popular, and for good reason. They offer a healthier way to enjoy fried foods, and they’re incredibly versatile. Here are some recipes to try with your new air fryer:
### Recipe 1: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
These chicken wings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, all without the need for deep frying.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds chicken wings
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Wings:** Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels.
2. **Season Wings:** In a bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. **Air Fry:** Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches.
4. **Cook:** Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
*Use different seasonings, such as lemon pepper or barbecue seasoning.
*Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or buffalo sauce.
*Marinate the wings for at least 30 minutes before air frying for extra flavor.
### Recipe 2: Air Fryer French Fries
These air fryer French fries are crispy, golden brown, and much healthier than traditional deep-fried fries.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Fries:** Soak the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. **Season Fries:** In a bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. **Air Fry:** Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches.
4. **Cook:** Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are crispy and golden brown.
5. **Serve:** Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
*Use different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes.
*Add different seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika.
*Serve with ketchup, mayonnaise, or aioli.
## Section 5: New Cookware, New Possibilities
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are also great times to upgrade your cookware. A new set of pots and pans can inspire you to try new recipes and improve your cooking skills. Here are some ideas:
### Recipe 1: One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Roasting the chicken and vegetables together in one pan makes cleanup a breeze.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
* 1 pound potatoes, cut into chunks
* 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
* 1 onion, cut into wedges
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare Chicken:** Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season inside and out with salt and pepper.
3. **Prepare Vegetables:** In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. **Arrange in Pan:** Place the vegetables in a large roasting pan. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables.
5. **Roast:** Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. **Rest:** Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. **Serve:** Serve the chicken and vegetables.
**Tips and Variations:**
*Use different vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
*Add lemon slices or herbs to the chicken cavity for extra flavor.
*Serve with gravy or a pan sauce.
### Recipe 2: Skillet Paella
This flavorful Spanish rice dish is perfect for a special occasion. Using a good quality skillet is essential for achieving the perfect socarrat (the crispy rice at the bottom of the pan).
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 cup paella rice (or Arborio rice)
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 pound chorizo, sliced
* 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1/4 cup frozen peas
* Lemon wedges for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. **Add Rice:** Add the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. **Add Broth and Spices:** Add the chicken broth, saffron threads, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
4. **Add Chorizo:** Add the chorizo.
5. **Simmer:** Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked through.
6. **Add Shrimp and Peas:** Add the shrimp and peas. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, or until the shrimp is cooked through and the peas are tender.
7. **Rest:** Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
8. **Serve:** Serve with lemon wedges.
**Tips and Variations:**
*Use different types of seafood, such as mussels or clams.
*Add chicken or rabbit to the paella.
*Garnish with fresh parsley or roasted red peppers.
## Conclusion: Cooking Up Savings and Deliciousness
Black Friday and Cyber Monday kitchen deals offer a fantastic opportunity to upgrade your culinary arsenal and expand your recipe repertoire. With a little planning and these delicious recipes, you can transform your kitchen into a place of creativity, flavor, and unforgettable meals. Happy shopping and happy cooking!