Pumpkin seeds, aka pepitas, are this week's mystery ingredient. We'll make a savory Pork with Pipian (pumpkin seed mole) and a Chocolate-Pepit Shortbread that I've been making as part of my holiday cookie box for years. Check it out!  Follow me on Instagram @stircrazypod  and like me on Facebook facebook.com/stircrazypod

Ham and beans is a dish that's been around for literal centuries. I'm updating it a little by changing up the legume -- using lentils in place of the beans -- and adding a little more flavor with tomatoes and a little dash of heat. 

Fried rice is one of those dishes that, on paper, is really easy, but never turns out the way you think it should. Spend 12 minutes with me and I will tell you how easy it is to make awesome fried rice that you'll never order it again. Check out the Stir Crazy Instagram @stircrazypod for process photos and my finished dish. 

This week we use one of my favorite kitchen staples: TAHINI! I always have a jar of sesame seed paste in my fridge. I'll make a delicious Tahini-Marinated Chicken (also flavored with a little Ras-al-Hanout) and some scrumptious--and grain-free--Tahini Chocolate Chunk Cookies. It's not just for hummus anymore, kids! 

Thank you to Amy for the suggestion of chia seeds for the pantry item she doesn't know what to do with! Chia seeds are loaded with antioxidants and other good stuff that make them super good for you. So join me in our quick chia seed journey!