Pair the comforting Homemade Hamburger Helper with the tense thriller 'The Chain' by Adrian McKinty and a classic Whiskey Sour for an unforgettable night. The savory, nostalgic flavors of the dish provide a comforting background as you delve into the gripping narrative of the book, which keeps you on the edge of your seat. Meanwhile, the tangy, balanced notes of a Whiskey Sour offer a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall dining and reading experience. This trio creates an exciting blend of warmth and intrigue that is sure to captivate any reader and diner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Liquid and Seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, milk, uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (with their juice), paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
The Chain
In 'The Chain' by Adrian McKinty, you become part of a terrifying chain when your child is kidnapped and the only way to save them is to kidnap another child. The novel delves into the depths of how far a parent will go to save their child, exploring moral boundaries in a gripping thriller that refuses to let go.
When a mother is targeted by a dangerous group of masterminds, she must commit a crime to save her kidnapped daughter—or risk losing her forever—in this "propulsive and original" award-winning thriller (Stephen King). It's something parents do every morning: Rachel Klein drops her daughter at the bus stop and heads into her day. But a cell phone call from an unknown number changes everything: it's a woman on the line, informing her that she has Kylie bound and gagged in her back seat, and the only way Rachel will see her again is to follow her instructions exactly: pay a ransom, and find another child to abduct. This is no ordinary kidnapping: the caller is a mother herself, whose son has been taken, and if Rachel doesn't do as she's told, the boy will die. "You are not the first. And you will certainly not be the last."Rachel is now part of The Chain, an unending and ingenious scheme that turns victims into criminals—and is making someone else very rich in the process. The rules are simple, the moral challenges impossible; find the money fast, find your victim, and then commit a horrible act you'd have thought yourself incapable of just twenty-four hours ago. But what the masterminds behind The Chain know is that parents will do anything for their children. It turns out that kidnapping is only the beginning. "McKinty is one of the most striking and most memorable crime voices to emerge on the scene in years. His plots tempt you to read at top speed, but don't give in: this writing—sharply observant, intelligent and shot through with black humor—should be savored." —Tana French "A masterpiece. You have never read anything quite like The Chain and you will never be able to forget it." —Don Winslow "Diabolical, unnerving, and gives a whole new meaning to the word "relentless". Adrian McKinty just leapt to the top of my list of must-read suspense novelists. He's the real deal." —Dennis Lehane "Pairing an irresistible concept with a winner protagonist, The Chain promises to be your new addiction once you succumb to the first enticing page." —Alafair Burke "A grade-A-first-rate-edge-of-your-seat thriller. I can't believe what went through my mind while reading it." —Attica Locke
Discussion Questions
- What do you think the author is trying to say about the nature of fear and desperation in extreme circumstances?
- How does the concept of 'The Chain' explore the idea of moral compromise? Are there any ethical boundaries the characters refuse to cross?
- Discuss the transformation of the main character throughout the story. What were the pivotal moments that changed her outlook?
- How does the author build tension and suspense throughout the novel? Which parts were the most nerve-wracking for you?
- In what ways does 'The Chain' comment on the current state of society and human behavior in crisis situations?
- Did the ending satisfy your expectations? Why or why not?
- Which character did you sympathize with the most, and why?
- How did 'The Chain' challenge your views on what lengths are justified to protect loved ones?
- What role do secondary characters play in adding complexity to the plot?
- Is there a particular passage or aspect of the book that stood out to you regarding the writing style or plot development?
Authors:
Adrian McKinty
ISBN: 0316531260
Publisher: Mulholland Books
Published Date: 2019-07-09
Classic Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail known for its perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, complemented by the warm, rich notes of whiskey. It's an ideal accompaniment to a meal like Homemade Hamburger Helper, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy and cheesy dish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz egg white (optional for frothy texture)
- Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Add the whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker without ice. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to combine thoroughly.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well chilled.
- Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry before serving. Enjoy!