tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24506961946327835882024-03-06T01:13:11.430-05:00Finding DeliciousAt home or around town...girl's gotta eat!Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.comBlogger240125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-58771771687915391092015-07-04T22:48:00.002-04:002015-07-12T16:42:29.906-04:00Happy 4th and a couple updates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The thing about change is that it sneaks up on you so quickly you find yourself in the midst of it, head reeling, wondering how "that point in the distant future" somehow became "today."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In December, I found out I'd be moving to Iowa City in the summer for residency. And now, here I sit, in an unfurnished sublet, writing from you from Hawkeye Nation itself. Let me start by saying, I've been so impressed with this city so far - it seems like there are some phenomenal places to eat, I got to go inside the football stadium off-season, and I wandered into a Jazz Fest. I'm also extremely lucky to say that my co-residents are pretty awesome and I think the next two years are going to create some amazing friendships in addition to a wonderful career. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made this pasta dish tonight - a simple fettuccine alfredo. The recipe is based off <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/07/fettuccine-alfredo/" target="_blank">this one</a> by Ree Drummond. I had to modify it for one. I included some suggestions for when I make it again. Let me preface this by saying, alfredo sauce is all fat - there is nothing healthy in this no matter how you spin it. So resolve yourself to having to walk 10 miles after and enjoy it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt97bIAL_K9cIHjMH0vU83_2nHx7ZFaO7PKYUyCvap0pyUppOm-YfPEHXzp5DB9kr1-7BW8HWdK34xLt2gBvwIeX7mRTZmS7TFRxx-thORVrPsplayw67HSvRt9ReEauVt2oQkIZ-jmg/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt97bIAL_K9cIHjMH0vU83_2nHx7ZFaO7PKYUyCvap0pyUppOm-YfPEHXzp5DB9kr1-7BW8HWdK34xLt2gBvwIeX7mRTZmS7TFRxx-thORVrPsplayw67HSvRt9ReEauVt2oQkIZ-jmg/s320/image1.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2AVYUyKZmvy8ruyYKC1dPjaczefYyw3q7G5JJSmrLIrolNXilt020JLwSFLaI378f52uh9hnj90liSww82Y7vPUCI3fT27G4ABzeYCIsqw74jTCQ0hOTo9dZaV1c8Gc_ijBmf-KllA/s1600/image2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2AVYUyKZmvy8ruyYKC1dPjaczefYyw3q7G5JJSmrLIrolNXilt020JLwSFLaI378f52uh9hnj90liSww82Y7vPUCI3fT27G4ABzeYCIsqw74jTCQ0hOTo9dZaV1c8Gc_ijBmf-KllA/s320/image2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Cook your pasta in boiling, salted water until al dente. Before draining, reserve a cup of cooking liquid to loosen the sauce later if need be. Heat 1 Tbs oil and 1 Tbs butter. Throw in a minced clove of garlic. Add a generous splash of heavy cream (about 1/4 cup) and then a whole bunch of freshly grated Parmesan (a loose 1/3 cup). Season with a bunch of black pepper but hold off on the salt until you serve. Add 1/3 cup shredded chicken breast (I had a rotisserie chicken so I used that). The chicken is optional but I wanted some protein. Toss in your pasta and coat with the sauce, using the reserved pasta water if necessary to create a nice sauce. Sprinkle with a fresh grating of Parm, salt, and more pepper. The sauce comes together super fast so I just make it in the same pot as the pasta after it's finished cooking.<br />
<br />
The first time I made this, it was in Richmond as an experiment to impress a boy. The second time I made this was for said boy, and I was so nervous, I shattered the glass lid to my pasta pot by accidentally leaving it on a hot burner. We're still together...but after that disaster I'm not really sure why. Maybe because no glass got into the meal and therefore I did not poison him. Nailed it.<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-42285603157776190582015-05-05T07:09:00.000-04:002015-05-05T07:09:20.189-04:00The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrJITalPHKbO6Je3lEz-XTrm0GO4UtJfgt-OLdVFAuDKqpitQ-ceKW03fjQ4Da6nmBAU_6myRiUXUhU-i00WV3gKUQPecd4FQ1ydTa9unhdO6HSBAuTz6r_JhDadxPFdxM6-yzgqL_Kw/s1600/IMG_5344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrJITalPHKbO6Je3lEz-XTrm0GO4UtJfgt-OLdVFAuDKqpitQ-ceKW03fjQ4Da6nmBAU_6myRiUXUhU-i00WV3gKUQPecd4FQ1ydTa9unhdO6HSBAuTz6r_JhDadxPFdxM6-yzgqL_Kw/s320/IMG_5344.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u><br /></u></div>
Chocolate chip cookies have taken the blogging world by storm since the beginning of time. I've probably tried 5 or 6 different variations, some stuffed with nutella, many with browned butter, and usually I have just stayed with a recipe handed down by my aunt. But when Deb of Smitten Kitchen posted this recipe...no...this <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2015/04/salted-chocolate-chunk-cookies/" target="_blank">PICTURE</a>, I literally couldn't get it out of my mind.<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It took totaling my car and feeling like absolute crap to actually tip the scales in favor of making them, but I'm glad I did because friends, nothing soothes the soul like a nice, soft chocolate chip cookie. I liked this recipe for a few reasons: the baking temperature is weird and I like weird things, as someone keeps tell me. Or maybe it's more that I am weird. Same difference, really. Anyway...I also liked that she used chunks. I've never used Trader Joe's Pound Plus before, but if Deb says it's good, I am willing to give it a try. I got the dark chocolate (they also have 60% cacao and milk) and really liked it - not too sweet but definitely overpowering thanks to the recipe calling for 1/2 pound of it. Finally, my personal test of whether or not I like a cookie recipe is how they taste the next day: I hate that stale, crunchy exterior-next day-cookie taste. But seeing as I'm sitting here munching on one 3 days after making it, happy as a clam, I'd say we're good on that front.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9BiPwNxqFDyDgC1gBRhyEPdhOxQqQMxZUoeI27NbcSNztxAKMnFGY8j3yOgUWpfT_3T2PQlrUzS0GGI08XCX5QZmRHZEvV6H3Gt4-NOZkb3qolGd36UKHm7ZpXtCAn-MSAfGGtboWw/s1600/IMG_5343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9BiPwNxqFDyDgC1gBRhyEPdhOxQqQMxZUoeI27NbcSNztxAKMnFGY8j3yOgUWpfT_3T2PQlrUzS0GGI08XCX5QZmRHZEvV6H3Gt4-NOZkb3qolGd36UKHm7ZpXtCAn-MSAfGGtboWw/s320/IMG_5343.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a>I didn't change the recipe at all, except I used 2 Tbs granulated sugar in lieu of turbinado (didn't have any: I am a grad student/I am moving/due to afore mentioned car accident I was afraid to go to the grocery store). I also sprinkled with Himalayan pink rock salt, finely crushed, instead of sea salt (see reasons mentioned in last sentence). I liked the added saltiness, personally, but I shared these with some compadres who asked if I'd done something different with them and they asked in that way that really means, "These were a little salty." So maybe I do need the sea salt.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u>Salted Chocolate Chunk Cookies</u> (this is Deb's recipe, straight from her blog) with my opinions inserted</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyCFIYF6v_e3kU-RXNIBz1RVOLtinrH4gIXMA7I7ZtEuMBatdJtmyGKuIFZTEmEo9S3ExrYJ6djAnssiopGFXhJCoIo5rOXD1IcgkSRQZ7iAkDqRbVrUciOR5f4HeFMDTagP8Q4hsj8Q/s1600/IMG_5339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: Times; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyCFIYF6v_e3kU-RXNIBz1RVOLtinrH4gIXMA7I7ZtEuMBatdJtmyGKuIFZTEmEo9S3ExrYJ6djAnssiopGFXhJCoIo5rOXD1IcgkSRQZ7iAkDqRbVrUciOR5f4HeFMDTagP8Q4hsj8Q/s320/IMG_5339.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="color: #222222;">1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature </span><span style="color: #0b5394;">(or, she says, you can use it out of the fridge and beat the heck out of it to make it room temperature. I usually speed defrost it for 10-15 seconds and it's fine)</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">2 tablespoons (25 grams) turbinado sugar (aka Sugar in the Raw; you can use more brown or white if you don’t have this, but the subtle crunch it adds is delightful)</span><span style="color: #0b5394;"> - I used white</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (165 grams) packed light or dark brown sugar</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">1 large egg</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">3/4 teaspoon baking soda</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">Heaped 1/4 teaspoon (or, technically, 1/4 + 1/8 teaspoon) fine sea or table salt</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">1 3/4 cups (220 grams) all-purpose flour</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">1/2 pound (225 grams) semi- or bittersweet chocolate, cut into roughly 1/2-inch chunks with a serrated knife</span><br /><span style="color: #222222;">Flaky sea salt, to finish</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
Heat oven to 360°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicon baking mat.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars together with an electric mixer until very light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add egg and vanilla, beating until incorporated, and scraping down the bowl as needed. Beat in salt fine sea or table salt and baking soda until combined, then the flour on a low speed until just mixed. The dough will look crumbly at this point. With a spatula, fold/stir in the chocolate chunks. </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0nEXAifqrtYOeYb-yNhZfGupd8K2sdRMm22Xhj3hZoCbngA-Z9OXVwNv1E4pXSWMRLHEMz_4rt6oS5M7k2CmPUv7DmA7iwTcPVkkwlmY_C6U3ih_zvBlYOLTGAPXPJv1jvZfBF9SLA/s1600/IMG_5340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0nEXAifqrtYOeYb-yNhZfGupd8K2sdRMm22Xhj3hZoCbngA-Z9OXVwNv1E4pXSWMRLHEMz_4rt6oS5M7k2CmPUv7DmA7iwTcPVkkwlmY_C6U3ih_zvBlYOLTGAPXPJv1jvZfBF9SLA/s320/IMG_5340.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
Scoop cookies into 1 1/2 tablespoon mounds, spacing them apart on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle each with a few flakes of sea salt. Bake for 11 to 12 minutes, until golden on the outside but still very gooey and soft inside. Out of the oven, let rest on baking sheet out of the for 5 minutes before transferring a cooling rack.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaH-7kPQHmDEmOrwNq6i938FQI6QHmCrKyaLayCXkD5nmtFTOzhgqyFVwdbdW326Hqo3kxR7GB6Ed4z7XU5LfpW_sJm7T1f_as3VFdv1vvjX6UkXQvH-pnQ6lHYe0ULS3eaTcDMm5xGg/s1600/IMG_5341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaH-7kPQHmDEmOrwNq6i938FQI6QHmCrKyaLayCXkD5nmtFTOzhgqyFVwdbdW326Hqo3kxR7GB6Ed4z7XU5LfpW_sJm7T1f_as3VFdv1vvjX6UkXQvH-pnQ6lHYe0ULS3eaTcDMm5xGg/s320/IMG_5341.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
Extra dough can be formed into scoops and frozen on a sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer bag. I’ve baked these right from the freezer; they need, at most, 1 minute more baking time. You could also form them into a 2-inch log, freeze it, and slice and bake the cookies off as desired. The only difference I’ve noted between the cookies baked right away and those baked a day or more later is that the older cookie dough is less puffy when baked.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px;">Store in a Tupperware with the lid tightly closed for </span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; line-height: 14.5px;">maximum chewiness the next day.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-70299570282683165612015-04-15T16:19:00.001-04:002015-04-15T16:19:16.765-04:00Cleveland Eats: Part OneCleveland holds a special place in my heart - our family used to trek out to the city (ok, so it wasn't exactly a trek but all road trips seem long when you're 10) to go antiquing. There was this one really cool dude who'd take my parents to the dusty back room of his shop and they'd find treasures like stained glass windows and bronze doors. I am pretty sure my parents rewarded me for this dustmite-invested experience by taking me to an award-winning restaurant where I only ordered mashed potatoes and New England clam chowder. I asked my mom to confirm this last night on the phone and she couldn't...so, I might be telling tales about that last part.<br />
<br />
I revisited Cleveland recently (like, yesterday), armed with a few foodie recs from a friend who's dating someone at Case. While we could't try them all, we did make it to one, <a href="http://barrio-tacos.com/" target="_blank">Barrio</a>, and it was so delicious I think we might go back a couple times before venturing down the list. We only ordered their special tacos, but when we go back, I think I'l try and create my own. In addition to being dirt cheap, they were so incredibly flavorful and very, very generous when it comes to portions. Below is my breakdown of our restaurant experience - despite the low points, I'd go back in a heart beat.<br />
<br />
<u><span style="color: #38761d;">Barrio, Tremont Location</span></u><br />
<br />
1) <span style="color: #e69138;">Atmosphere</span>: kinda grunge, cool vibe, hanging bicycle with lights = very good first impression<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqzs3PA2Y8-px7Bpw7aiGl2izYL6q1hoERbG6xyQ6LODnxYxMuoGmLm6Rcq9QJb5IKt7zWrS8X6E3edcCxqME2mukKZEvhei2ibQhj-81-ay6sO51iyHPZaFA37p2BehsyNKyQqJrAhQ/s1600/margs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqzs3PA2Y8-px7Bpw7aiGl2izYL6q1hoERbG6xyQ6LODnxYxMuoGmLm6Rcq9QJb5IKt7zWrS8X6E3edcCxqME2mukKZEvhei2ibQhj-81-ay6sO51iyHPZaFA37p2BehsyNKyQqJrAhQ/s1600/margs.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a>2) <span style="color: #e69138;">Drinks</span>: I got a traditional margarita which was very delicious, although not filled completely. One was enough for me because once the food is in front of me, I tend to forget about my drink. I also tried the jalapeño variation which was yummy - I think they must make a simple syrup and add that because it didn't taste fake.<br />
<br />
3) <span style="color: #e69138;">Extras</span>: It's been a while since I've actually received a starter of chips and salsa for free at a Tex-Mex place, but literally seconds after our margs came, so did these munchies. And they were amazing. The salsa blew my mind - it was on the runny side and had a hint of chipotle. They served a mix of white and yellow corn chips which was kind of cool - I liked the attention to detail.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcg84JY7teMqH-sB8yhTIgFDFkpgcEw613KEEdfLx8D0p5VV4Wx8Gr3Pkz9WyrkX7Gbfj2wBqg03oJkYYlOv5NUzaJsfkwvrqn554lj10Bl9WUU_nKeaKlHpHViq0SCvNRoLIEHhctdw/s1600/chips+and+guac.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcg84JY7teMqH-sB8yhTIgFDFkpgcEw613KEEdfLx8D0p5VV4Wx8Gr3Pkz9WyrkX7Gbfj2wBqg03oJkYYlOv5NUzaJsfkwvrqn554lj10Bl9WUU_nKeaKlHpHViq0SCvNRoLIEHhctdw/s1600/chips+and+guac.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
4) <span style="color: #e69138;">Apps</span>: I was craving guac (actually I was craving falafel but the place was closed hence our trip to this establishment instead, but I digress). The portion was huge and for the price ($6) not unreasonable. I would have liked a little more lime and cilantro, though. Consistency was chunky but creamy and so thick that the chips had a hard time standing up for themselves when it came to scooping.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
5) <span style="color: #e69138;">Tacos</span>: Big, flavorful, great combinations. We only ordered off the suggested specials menu. They have something called a "stoner" shell which is a hard taco smothered with queso and chorizo and wrapped inside a soft shell. I'm not usually a fan of double carb things but the texture and flavor was so, so good. In terms of sides, next time I'll just order the guac with my taco and skip it as an app because they were very generous with the amounts of sides. Here however, was my least favorite part of the meal because one of the tacos was vegan with veggies and it was literally a soft taco shell full of pickled vegetables and 2 tiny strips of mushrooms. This was offensive for two reasons: the veggies were served with the pickle juice so the taco was super soggy and two, I was surprised that a place which seemed really aware of flavor profiles would have chosen such a caustic substance to serve their patrons. The pickle overpowered everything and it was the same as what they offer as a side so I kind of felt that was a cop out - should have just grilled all the vegetables and put some sort of sauce over top. I am selectively going to forget this part of the meal from this point forward because my other taco was heavenly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2-Dp_KK33OFUJ33-Sb0Pi20srViarGlxx_v0UUUP4TrPKtTwHvqcJxQN1N5b5SPMhnu0P193FO1kgbDWDtFmyKvfMOLRUgW7RN5XBGCBtSJeS56nonQ3apXusO0xp8NA60C_fF8xTA/s1600/tacos.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2-Dp_KK33OFUJ33-Sb0Pi20srViarGlxx_v0UUUP4TrPKtTwHvqcJxQN1N5b5SPMhnu0P193FO1kgbDWDtFmyKvfMOLRUgW7RN5XBGCBtSJeS56nonQ3apXusO0xp8NA60C_fF8xTA/s1600/tacos.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
6) <span style="color: #e69138;">Service</span>: For the most part, fine. I felt a little rushed at the beginning to order and the waitstaff didn't seem so invested in chit-chat. But then I reminded myself I was back in the Midwest and polite efficiency is how we roll. One negative here was that the busboy nabbed our guacamole before we were finished with it.<br />
<br />
Final thoughts:<br />
<br />
- Why did I not build my own taco? That was dumb. I need to do this next time.<br />
- Why did we get an app? Because we thought it'd be teeny, which it wasn't. Do not do this again, <br />
Sheila. You will hate yourself.<br />
- When can we go back???<br />
<br />
Convo of the evening, said while taking a very short walk because we did, in fact, hate ourselves for the sheer amount of food we'd just consumed.<br />
me: "Ok, I didn't eat that much did I?"<br />
companion: "Babe, you ate a ton. And I ate more than you, so imagine how I feel."<br />
me: "You are rude."<br />
<br />
Yep...this is love.<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-52457843458767839862015-04-04T21:59:00.000-04:002015-04-07T18:34:07.616-04:00The SoupI have to preface this post by saying I have no photos of this soup. Which is good because it means I will have to make it again and bad because, of course, we eat with our eyes first and you might not believe that this is seriously one of the best soups I have ever made.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
4, 15oz cans chicken stock<br />
5 cloves garlic, chopped<br />
2 red onions, diced<br />
4 carrots, diced<br />
2-3 potatoes, diced<br />
1/2 can tomato paste<br />
2 chicken thighs, diced (although, to be honest, you could leave this out and only use the sausage)<br />
2-4 links spicy sausage of some kind (I used an all-organic turkey sausage from Whole Foods), largely diced<br />
1/2 cup barley<br />
1 tsp dried oregano<br />
1/2 tsp red chili flakes<br />
1 Tbs turmeric<br />
1/2 tsp dried sage<br />
salt, pepper, garlic powder<br />
<br />
Start by frying the sausage in a bit of olive oil until it's nice and brown, then add the chicken. Toss in the onions, garlic, and carrots and cook until the onions have wilted a little. Add the diced potatoes and fry those until they get a little color on them. Pour in 2 cans of chicken stock and the tomato paste. Next add the spices. Cook this over medium-high heat until the chicken stock starts to evaporate (about 20 minutes), then add the other two cans of stock. You might want to add more tomato paste to thicken the soup, but if you keep cooking it, it should reduce down. Taste to make sure the stock is flavorful enough - you might want to add more oregano, sage, or turmeric. Add the barley and cook for another 20-30 minutes - the potatoes should be cooked through at this point.<br />
<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-21316714281292592742015-03-21T07:10:00.000-04:002015-03-23T12:15:48.689-04:00Boston BitesGosh, I love alliteration...<br />
<br />
Last week I was in Boston for a research conference and wanted - nay, needed - to share a few places with you. If you ever find yourself in Massachusetts (or more specifically Boston proper), get yourself to these locales ASAP:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_371w/Boston/2011-2020/2013/07/09/BostonGlobe.com/Arts/Images/mistral%202-578216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_371w/Boston/2011-2020/2013/07/09/BostonGlobe.com/Arts/Images/mistral%202-578216.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a>1) <span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="http://mistralbistro.com/" target="_blank">Mistral</a></span> (pronounced Mistraaaal - okay, I'm not good with phonetics) - pricey but worth it. Here, I had the best mushroom bisque of my life. It was full of wild mushrooms and came in a piping hot crock covered with puff pastry (see below, not my photo because I devoured it too quickly). I died. They also have a pear croustade which was, in the waiter's words "extraterrestrial." It was. I've never had pear caramel sauce but somehow they managed to infuse intense pear flavor without having the caramel seize.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_r/Boston/2011-2020/2012/11/27/BostonGlobe.com/Lifestyle/Images/28dining1%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_r/Boston/2011-2020/2012/11/27/BostonGlobe.com/Lifestyle/Images/28dining1%5B1%5D.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://quizimg3.whichblankareyou.com/Q651RES25477.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://quizimg3.whichblankareyou.com/Q651RES25477.png" height="191" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
2) <span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="http://www.thinkingcup.com/" target="_blank">Thinking Cup</a>:</span> coolest coffee shop ever and the macaroons are pretty fantabulous. Also located next to Georgetown Cupcake on Newbury Street: Plus. Plus-plus.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
3) <span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="http://www.finagleabagel.com/" target="_blank">Finagle a Bagel</a>:</span> The name of course is what got me. Yummy breakfast sammies and super affordable. Bagels aren't as mind-blowing as Bodo's in Charlottesville, but bagel sandwiches are my life so I'm not complaining.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flourbakery.com/sites/default/files/logo%20official%20dark%204.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.flourbakery.com/sites/default/files/logo%20official%20dark%204.png" /></a><br />
4) <span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="http://www.flourbakery.com/" target="_blank">Flour:</a></span> Go. Here. My lovely friend who's an ortho resident at Tufts brought be here and there aren't enough words to describe how much I loved it. With a name like "flour," they had a lot to live up to. We shared a delicious sticky bun and two sandwiches. The filling pairings were unexpected but perfect: think, sweet potato with walnut pesto?? Yes? Yes. By the way, how cute is their logo?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6129/5979356621_eb80d600bf.jpg" height="212" width="320" /><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6129/5979356621_eb80d600bf.jpg" target="_blank">http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6129/5979356621_eb80d600bf.jpg</a></div>
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-48821945799255959222015-03-09T19:19:00.000-04:002015-03-09T19:19:40.292-04:00Chicken Caesar SaladDifferent people get fixated on different things. A few weeks ago, I became very curious as to how hard it would be to make Caesar salad from scratch. I'd stopped myself from embarking upon said endeavor multiple times in the last few months, convinced a salad with no actual "substance" would not be filling and that it would be hard to make the dressing without a legit food processor or a wooden bowl to mix everything in. If you've ever seen Ina Garten make a salad, you understand why the wooden bowl is such an important competent to salad making. If you haven't, then you probably are wondering at what age I slipped on black ice and lost my mind. <div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uM2KA3B7gVoKlx2Wz8M67GJdBeDQSASN2uMJq1LYZTis1eEkmTWutEZVi5gbabPYMLClNoYH69MF2QdPhAC0eLLCqeD2UBvOGeNbZxqcfpRedlDI7kd7lbdfeKknkds7zDKyGWpzhg/s1600/IMG_4658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uM2KA3B7gVoKlx2Wz8M67GJdBeDQSASN2uMJq1LYZTis1eEkmTWutEZVi5gbabPYMLClNoYH69MF2QdPhAC0eLLCqeD2UBvOGeNbZxqcfpRedlDI7kd7lbdfeKknkds7zDKyGWpzhg/s1600/IMG_4658.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anywhos, the most difficult (if you call it that) part of this was the dressing, but even that was pretty simple. The main way to ensure the salad is super tasty is to mix all the components separately with the dressing, then toss with a little more right at the end. This way everything is evenly coated. And just use your hands to toss - I find that a set of well washed hands is the best way to get that dressing into every nook and cranny of the lettuce. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Chicken Caesar Salad </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Make croutons but cutting some crusty bread into cubes and frying in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil and butter at the end. Set aside.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Season some chicken thighs (factor 1/person) with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then roast at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes. I use thighs because they are tasty, cheaper than the breasts, and almost impossible to overcook. Cut into cubes once they are cooked and set aside.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Chop romaine lettuce (factor one chunk per person) into bite-sized pieces. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Slice a carton of cherry tomatoes in half and place in a separate bowl. Add the chicken and about 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan. I like shaved and not grated because I personally think the cheese becomes more an ingredient in the foreground than the back as a binder. I actually found a yummy mix of Parm, Fontina, and Asiago at Kroger of all places. And it looked super fresh. A little pricey, but hey, I saved all that money buying chicken thighs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Make the dressing by combining in a bowl the following: 2 Tbs dijon mustard, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, 5 cloves super diced garlic, a splash of balsamic vinegar, the juice of half a lemon, and 2 Tbs anchovy paste. I highly suggest getting the paste - especially if you don't have a food processor - it mixes in so smoothly! Mix all this together then slowly and steadily stream in 1/2 cup olive oil, whisking the whole time to create an emulsion. Some people add an egg yolk to help with this. Some add mayo. I like the mustard/oil combination. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Add some dressing to the tomato/chicken/cheese mix and stir to coat. Do the same with the lettuce then mix everything together with a little more dressing. This amount of dressing gave me enough to feed 3 people, generously. Serve with croutons arranged prettily on top.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
By the way...I was 14. And I'm almost positive the effects have worn off ;)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-10867167034023493932015-02-28T09:45:00.000-05:002015-02-28T15:42:16.304-05:00Key Lime Pie: Never Order from a Restaurant Again<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRu4QhzwS_aYg7ajzvZBbAu9oKdU3QgFKYUs2_CXyORTCB6EntS5lkMpSGL_njNPCcuZjy559Tk9c-RwjJ8xrYjYXJXiz7VkbUK2VzxHjDEa8Z2WISbYPDXxe7g34uvtzRwZfWw6EfFQ/s1600/IMG_4641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRu4QhzwS_aYg7ajzvZBbAu9oKdU3QgFKYUs2_CXyORTCB6EntS5lkMpSGL_njNPCcuZjy559Tk9c-RwjJ8xrYjYXJXiz7VkbUK2VzxHjDEa8Z2WISbYPDXxe7g34uvtzRwZfWw6EfFQ/s1600/IMG_4641.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWi_VmdmxIydjpIoIU-FuNdR3lrxoBW0aXW7n2mDkyXVpWeSAW5wdEmdY10pRJ6oMvjs-veZ-HpKylnDbwBUK-Iyx7iyiVueDD2FwjA5ZPHUN2FjYDRO4loZ6qLZgokYVNpk17brMWHw/s1600/IMG_4640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWi_VmdmxIydjpIoIU-FuNdR3lrxoBW0aXW7n2mDkyXVpWeSAW5wdEmdY10pRJ6oMvjs-veZ-HpKylnDbwBUK-Iyx7iyiVueDD2FwjA5ZPHUN2FjYDRO4loZ6qLZgokYVNpk17brMWHw/s1600/IMG_4640.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Also making the list of "Things I Thought Too Difficult To Make" was key lime pie. Why, I don't know considering it's one of the easiest desserts I have ever made, not to mention pretty cheap since there are only 5 ingredients counting the crust. If you want to impress someone with your culinary abilities, make this and let the compliments roll in!<br />
<br />
Couple things: I juiced my own limes. It took a looong time. And my fingers were withered afterwards. But it wasn't that bad - kind of therapeutic actually. Where was I going with this? Oh yes, if you want to release the most juice from your limes (or any citrus), just nuke them in the microwave for a few seconds. Apparently you can buy a <a href="http://keylimejuice.com/" target="_blank">key lime concentrate</a> and avoid the manual labor. I can't vouch for this, though and I often find that the bottled lemon/lime juices are overly acidic and have a weird aftertaste. Personally, I prefer to be old fashioned and squeeze them myself. Wrinkled fingers and all.<br />
<br />
I used this recipe from <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2015/01/key-lime-pie/" target="_blank">Smitten Kitchen</a>, except cut it in half to make 2 mini pies instead of one large one. Mainly because I had no idea what I'd do with a whole pie. Well, I know what I'd do with it and if I want to fit into my jeans, it's best for everyone if I just cut the recipe.<br />
<br />
Don't skimp on the mixing and whipping instructions below. I think the key with this pie (hahaha, get it?), is that it's more the technical aspect that makes it special than the ingredients themselves. So get to beating. One final note, it's a good idea to make this the day before you're planning to serve since it's best chilled and needs to set completely.<br />
<br />
<u>Key Lime Pie</u><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiESOlay_m5DOdR6uD3-GSYlVVVGkr3WCGoQ6mt8j6h5J2KyiMB6eNZ8r-1oHY3ZkzFZQcqji5A7oJGi7dxA_vKLPnqlPir_HL_BvAAlYOdOH8PWYLAagzWW7fPHzaqI8PgAM41aGq87w/s1600/IMG_4613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiESOlay_m5DOdR6uD3-GSYlVVVGkr3WCGoQ6mt8j6h5J2KyiMB6eNZ8r-1oHY3ZkzFZQcqji5A7oJGi7dxA_vKLPnqlPir_HL_BvAAlYOdOH8PWYLAagzWW7fPHzaqI8PgAM41aGq87w/s1600/IMG_4613.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<u><br /></u>
<br />
<br />
<br />
First, make a graham cracker crust by processing about 1 cup of graham crackers and adding 1/2 stick of melted butter. Mix together, pack into your pie tins (or tin if making a whole pie), and blind bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Blind baking means to bake with nothing in the pie. By doing this, you ensure your crust is nice and stiff so it can handle the pie filling without getting gloppy. Set aside to cool but leave the oven on.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
In a bowl whip 2 egg yolks until pale and thick. This will take about 7 minutes.</div>
<u><br /></u>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAsE-8RxP6IJyACG9Jb4msfCV4qReVteX0ZTkw2dFo0F9VcRzFf3F12a9sndTj3q2JV6KVgT1pzstBK3fsyD9kmO2ZL6Zom4Ltgk2d8zeIRp058W04oCw_IBaqLqfsINmmOwTPv7FVA/s1600/IMG_4612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAsE-8RxP6IJyACG9Jb4msfCV4qReVteX0ZTkw2dFo0F9VcRzFf3F12a9sndTj3q2JV6KVgT1pzstBK3fsyD9kmO2ZL6Zom4Ltgk2d8zeIRp058W04oCw_IBaqLqfsINmmOwTPv7FVA/s1600/IMG_4612.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minute #2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxmtPjH6OywjU9rVo7SCRhAEVJPjiO_oQ6nhPq03oE-91FsUuVdfJcRWEDbp438M54MTNWDCMUi4AWYBoh1FBzfUxs1ONHv8MgKRXf6xqCXBwjNjPIZgqKji60vofiOR7x9njbeuBnw/s1600/IMG_4614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxmtPjH6OywjU9rVo7SCRhAEVJPjiO_oQ6nhPq03oE-91FsUuVdfJcRWEDbp438M54MTNWDCMUi4AWYBoh1FBzfUxs1ONHv8MgKRXf6xqCXBwjNjPIZgqKji60vofiOR7x9njbeuBnw/s1600/IMG_4614.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minute #7 (note how pale and thick the yolks have become)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add half a can of condensed milk and whip another 3-5 minutes. Then add 1/3 cup key lime juice and mix to combine. You can also add a teaspoon of the zest from the limes, but I temporarily lost my mind and threw away the rinds without zesting them! The end product still tasted delicious.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2gn_GxriSicRdOvYxJDHyDYYjuI4041cqO_1cZ4u83IMgLV4T6oqvRxtLlzhnYDk6rd6yT1fnekQvwb5GaEr9Ud48mJ9G1k1DIff9l4fgNzFySSpgYh7s4ZxY8QKPmF5hi_rOEcrxUw/s1600/IMG_4616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2gn_GxriSicRdOvYxJDHyDYYjuI4041cqO_1cZ4u83IMgLV4T6oqvRxtLlzhnYDk6rd6yT1fnekQvwb5GaEr9Ud48mJ9G1k1DIff9l4fgNzFySSpgYh7s4ZxY8QKPmF5hi_rOEcrxUw/s1600/IMG_4616.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pour into your pie tins and bake another 10 minutes, but watch them so they just set. The tops shouldn't be brown at all so you might consider turning down the oven temp if your oven is hotter than normal.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9-r6jmOaQMhndavpwuDyTC7HsvHqK61EQ76gBAR2KpBknzUlyoC_FrA86IU4K2U136rxxFDTi-hzELSwiqgd6kQw57mDn63U6wClc0ZkvDutAAvYJY8mBKGX230KRmjN9XXJyjO22w/s1600/IMG_4618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9-r6jmOaQMhndavpwuDyTC7HsvHqK61EQ76gBAR2KpBknzUlyoC_FrA86IU4K2U136rxxFDTi-hzELSwiqgd6kQw57mDn63U6wClc0ZkvDutAAvYJY8mBKGX230KRmjN9XXJyjO22w/s1600/IMG_4618.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9-r6jmOaQMhndavpwuDyTC7HsvHqK61EQ76gBAR2KpBknzUlyoC_FrA86IU4K2U136rxxFDTi-hzELSwiqgd6kQw57mDn63U6wClc0ZkvDutAAvYJY8mBKGX230KRmjN9XXJyjO22w/s1600/IMG_4618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The last thing you need to do is whip up some fresh whipped cream. My mom and I have our own special recipe: heavy whipping cream (make sure it's "heavy" otherwise the cream doesn't have enough body to whip up). Add a couple tablespoons of confectioner's sugar (not granulated, otherwise it'll be gritty) and 1/4 tsp almond extract. I am in love with almond extract - but don't add too much otherwise it'll overpower the cream and add a bitter taste. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Taste to see if you need any more sugar, then plop over top of the pie and garnish with some zest. At least that's what I would have done in an alternate universe where I didn't pitch the rinds.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzf2VxmvgI66AQKapifIuMZE_nwCFrm3VSQ8HtJtNJx7imdM3d7Y3z1OueN5HM3SeZ_6Dghv0_ESAS30jy63wUeU9-vJcLeJ3snzWYbCG7Y6ouGgGs4MdSW1fxplvQQXZyrV_1pRIRw/s1600/IMG_4649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzf2VxmvgI66AQKapifIuMZE_nwCFrm3VSQ8HtJtNJx7imdM3d7Y3z1OueN5HM3SeZ_6Dghv0_ESAS30jy63wUeU9-vJcLeJ3snzWYbCG7Y6ouGgGs4MdSW1fxplvQQXZyrV_1pRIRw/s1600/IMG_4649.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-85829333038582133322015-02-22T08:35:00.000-05:002015-02-23T07:25:42.242-05:00Beef "Stroganoff"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWBRMynWX86EQpgJwbdchXjg3Y09CAKtjwz4BdLNreX4KFWTAvVBtDnal4OTNbSHJ59gdCmu6kDChi4zbFQjknhq4_KEIW_OJnzdRXj6KTrzsO0GjwIhuEQCXkPqTjQLI1EIHnq-tdw/s1600/IMG_4556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWBRMynWX86EQpgJwbdchXjg3Y09CAKtjwz4BdLNreX4KFWTAvVBtDnal4OTNbSHJ59gdCmu6kDChi4zbFQjknhq4_KEIW_OJnzdRXj6KTrzsO0GjwIhuEQCXkPqTjQLI1EIHnq-tdw/s1600/IMG_4556.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Whenever I hear "stroganoff" I think about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ip9CYcdmrFI" target="_blank">this song</a> from the animated film, Anastasia (which, surprisingly was not put out by Disney). Fun fact - did you know John Cusack voiced the character "Dimitri." Now whenever I see him in real-people films, all I can think about is this guy:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://data2.whicdn.com/images/119206291/original.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://data2.whicdn.com/images/119206291/original.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Last week I attempted to make stroganoff, or something like it. The elements were there, but I didn't do a lot of research into finding an authentic recipe. And I was too tired to look into the best cut of meat to use. I settled on beef stew meat - which, FYI, needs to be cooked for a lot longer than 20 minutes. But I was so dang hungry I really didn't care.<br />
<br />
What you need:<br />
<br />
5 cloves garlic, chopped<br />
1 onion, finely diced<br />
2 pints mushrooms: I used button and baby bella, chopped<br />
1 pound beef stew<br />
olive oil<br />
flour<br />
salt and pepper<br />
1/2 Tbs cornstarch<br />
1 cup white wine<br />
1 can beef stock (or consume)<br />
1 cup sour cream (I always use light sour cream because, honestly, it tastes about the same to me)<br />
<br />
Heat the olive oil and fry the onion and garlic until a light brown, set aside.<br />
<br />
Next add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook those as well. They will give off a lot of juice which needs to cook out, so keep frying until they aren't moist. Set these aside with the onions.<br />
<br />
Add the meat to the same pot and arrange in one layer. Sear well on one side before flipping and searing the other sides. Sprinkle with a little flour to help with this process. Season with salt and pepper.<br />
<br />
Take your mushrooms and onions and add these to the beef, along with the wine and beef stock. Cook down about 10 minutes so the juice reduces by about 1/3. Scoop out 1/4 cup of liquid and mix with the cornstarch, then add this back to the pot. This is called a "slurry" and allows you to thicken the sauce without getting clumps of cornstarch speckled throughout.<br />
<br />
Now, I let this cook together for maybe 30 minutes. It tasted fine, so I went ahead and added the sour cream, let it cook together some, and served it up. If I were to do things again I would hold off on adding the sour cream, cover the stroganoff and cook about 1 hour, making sure to keep the liquid content up by adding more wine or stock. This would allow the beef to get nice and tender.<br />
<br />
**Serve beef stroganoff with egg noodles which are light and ridgy - perfect for soaking up the sauce<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-55499014058659099812015-02-15T16:00:00.001-05:002015-02-21T05:40:47.711-05:00Thank You For Making Me So (very) Happy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOyxHcQ7wN2SybQ2_iEQWjKVvzwcFRyZaYG7vDhCcPgeB7U1Eqw4W0RRXvbyrn60JoX_PTCg2Uykf4q4rrbfBsFuBEiWtsJBVuIxKM-nyyO3cVeaZV2HnM3JTTgNKRcOSq1dhyAJU0A/s1600/IMG_4536_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOyxHcQ7wN2SybQ2_iEQWjKVvzwcFRyZaYG7vDhCcPgeB7U1Eqw4W0RRXvbyrn60JoX_PTCg2Uykf4q4rrbfBsFuBEiWtsJBVuIxKM-nyyO3cVeaZV2HnM3JTTgNKRcOSq1dhyAJU0A/s1600/IMG_4536_2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Do I love Valentine's Day? Well, let's see. I do not love a day where people are obligated to buy random things they could purchase any other day of the year for their significant others. I do not love going to the grocery store and finding that chocolate chips are out of stock because suddenly everybody had the brilliant idea of making cookies. And I certainly do not love having pink and red everything shoved down my throat. Wow, I sound like a grinch (or something similar).<br />
<br />
Here is what I do love. I do love the elementary-kid version of Valentine's Day. You know the one? With little cartoon themed valentines and a big party with those candy conversation hearts (they tasted disgusting but were fun to glue onto construction paper). When I have kids, I am totally taking off work and volunteering to chaperone the VDay party. Mark my words. This type of Valentine's Day touted love that wasn't forced or fake-y romantic. It more was a representation of the feelings we have towards our friends and families. And significant others, every day that isn't Valentine's Day when you're just lounging around, drinking spiked coffee, and perusing the "moods" feature on the Songza app. That type of love I am on board with: grinch status revoked.<br />
<br />
With the impending doom of Boards, I decided to finally tackle a culinary challenge which has terrified me literally forever: bread. Whenever I see "yeast" listed as an ingredient I immediately move on to another recipe - I associate it with "long time to make" and "easy to screw up." But like I said in an earlier post, I've been feeling very much in sync and confident lately - I suppose that's what being in a healthy relationship does for a gal. Imagine that. I have also really REALLY been wanting cinnamon rolls. Yes, it only took 3 paragraphs, but I finally revealed what recipe I'll be sharing this post.<br />
<br />
My mom made Nutella rolls this summer with a potato dough and they were amazing. Like, I'm glad I'm moving to Iowa because maybe I can convince her to make them for me in exchange for driving the 6 hours to Michigan on the weekend. Her recipe required the use of a bread maker, which I do not have, so I scoured the web reading different variations of potato dough recipes which only required one's hands and a bowl. I settled on <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/classic-cinnamon-rolls/" target="_blank">this one</a> - below I've tried to break it down with lots of pictures.<br />
<br />
oxoxo,<br />
S<br />
<br />
Caramel Cinnamon Rolls (I cut the recipe in half and it made about 12 rolls - more than enough)<br />
*fun fact: the recipe I used was from a lady in Iowa (my future hometown)!! <br />
<br />
For the dough<br />
<br />
1/2 cup mashed potatoes (I used Russet)<br />
1/2 cup reserved potato water<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NUeyeHgO2V2-sd1s3gRI5xp5RnDd2c5Ci6XhSO2AjoOl2W0qhAB4IQqS6Z6DgQToMkfvjugrfcvv6En29cVMx5QvgG1yup0_d4lMGnRa-Wq9QFPgwaHT8QYysAIwt95I4j0rCYDAOw/s1600/IMG_4516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NUeyeHgO2V2-sd1s3gRI5xp5RnDd2c5Ci6XhSO2AjoOl2W0qhAB4IQqS6Z6DgQToMkfvjugrfcvv6En29cVMx5QvgG1yup0_d4lMGnRa-Wq9QFPgwaHT8QYysAIwt95I4j0rCYDAOw/s1600/IMG_4516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NUeyeHgO2V2-sd1s3gRI5xp5RnDd2c5Ci6XhSO2AjoOl2W0qhAB4IQqS6Z6DgQToMkfvjugrfcvv6En29cVMx5QvgG1yup0_d4lMGnRa-Wq9QFPgwaHT8QYysAIwt95I4j0rCYDAOw/s1600/IMG_4516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NUeyeHgO2V2-sd1s3gRI5xp5RnDd2c5Ci6XhSO2AjoOl2W0qhAB4IQqS6Z6DgQToMkfvjugrfcvv6En29cVMx5QvgG1yup0_d4lMGnRa-Wq9QFPgwaHT8QYysAIwt95I4j0rCYDAOw/s1600/IMG_4516.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>6 Tbs butter<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1/2 cup hot water<br />
1 egg<br />
1 env Fleischmann's Active Dry Yeast<br />
1/4 cup lukewarm water<br />
4 1/4 cups all purpose flour<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
One of the most exciting parts about making dough from scratch was that I got to break out my dough hook for the first time!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5xJXmX91JgZJWiD7J7bqbgw_bQM6cqT-UBSEdVDUt6MZ-jsQvq8qKzeXxuWTj9YNvpmMnQe8tsgg7tr7Dyfi20D6alDAe9CyuHL5XGd-Qfyz_pzabsaAt99JLtSEdeQ8gflO86KaDg/s1600/IMG_4517_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5xJXmX91JgZJWiD7J7bqbgw_bQM6cqT-UBSEdVDUt6MZ-jsQvq8qKzeXxuWTj9YNvpmMnQe8tsgg7tr7Dyfi20D6alDAe9CyuHL5XGd-Qfyz_pzabsaAt99JLtSEdeQ8gflO86KaDg/s1600/IMG_4517_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Take the potato, peel it, then cut into tiny pieces. Cook them in boiling water - if you overcook a little, that's fine. Before draining the potatoes, reserve about a cup of the water. Mash and set aside.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVa2ZkLmH1EWy5LFld7zHdoZG48ddVDROzcjQOjw34Wu7mZmfGLoS3vBdKjuOAdO9A5l1LwHVjR92ZkuwfsqOdC4wPygf3HapY3fO3r3H01gIZ5AV6Iotfdv8EmAWkSGGVRHhkEhj0w/s1600/IMG_4518_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVa2ZkLmH1EWy5LFld7zHdoZG48ddVDROzcjQOjw34Wu7mZmfGLoS3vBdKjuOAdO9A5l1LwHVjR92ZkuwfsqOdC4wPygf3HapY3fO3r3H01gIZ5AV6Iotfdv8EmAWkSGGVRHhkEhj0w/s1600/IMG_4518_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>Combine potatoes, potato water, butter, sugar, salt and hot water in a mixing bowl. Stir until butter melts, then set aside to cool.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcY3nqbcfvOImpYecDZ1nkwj0AvtRT1vOKqDVhocdXqU_pYsVE2ZwSgZYNsUrSvs8YnIsfUS85umrKWgKT9b5tWIeXRaHsmNcBd6ZPowuuriktzeRZ5W8CXeUPnn66tXYA51CpXG2fhA/s1600/IMG_4519_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcY3nqbcfvOImpYecDZ1nkwj0AvtRT1vOKqDVhocdXqU_pYsVE2ZwSgZYNsUrSvs8YnIsfUS85umrKWgKT9b5tWIeXRaHsmNcBd6ZPowuuriktzeRZ5W8CXeUPnn66tXYA51CpXG2fhA/s1600/IMG_4519_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
Combine yeast and 1/2 cup warm water in small bowl.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Let rest 5 minutes. </div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
In the mixer add the egg, a cup of flour, and the yeast mixture to the potato mixture. Beat until well combined. Continue adding flour, 1 cup at a time until a soft dough forms. This took me about 5 minutes.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7Mypcjm3DFYfWuLT-6EWy4NkMAqHx2g_eFR4B3-aWZF5_ooGeU-mPFMbx7T6v2eU58z7u5myOu-LHwV042BMXGtD2I-tPDeRfqW3tBCIWslN7vV0cP4n8rk_cUgvwMC9-Q5vC39Caw/s1600/IMG_4521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7Mypcjm3DFYfWuLT-6EWy4NkMAqHx2g_eFR4B3-aWZF5_ooGeU-mPFMbx7T6v2eU58z7u5myOu-LHwV042BMXGtD2I-tPDeRfqW3tBCIWslN7vV0cP4n8rk_cUgvwMC9-Q5vC39Caw/s1600/IMG_4521.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Put the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap and a towel and let rise in a warm area for about an hour - it'll double in size. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_ne5TUT8N0U0kZchEnw5CZRGFB9YxbeWyordbVvC5Ym8bI8JECkLxuRlkF04GD3s-LN2SZVoGkILnARvqQ8xwp4RqukerXmnhtVg8qzSfflCKQW-CACmKOrr_g0141ycTMn6opULzw/s1600/IMG_4527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_ne5TUT8N0U0kZchEnw5CZRGFB9YxbeWyordbVvC5Ym8bI8JECkLxuRlkF04GD3s-LN2SZVoGkILnARvqQ8xwp4RqukerXmnhtVg8qzSfflCKQW-CACmKOrr_g0141ycTMn6opULzw/s1600/IMG_4527.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHg2AEN-Ea6zivK3SSH27cVTEh2BbTFsByKdbeYMVPAjgwBc-ZkISHYAQ1CsyiiN0ybUIWPt5_Ipe8gY25IFfg_8-QwTQ8z5EkgPXHaUbjzX9LPFbm8olj2stUZWHFGn7soja9Auo5qA/s1600/IMG_4540_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHg2AEN-Ea6zivK3SSH27cVTEh2BbTFsByKdbeYMVPAjgwBc-ZkISHYAQ1CsyiiN0ybUIWPt5_Ipe8gY25IFfg_8-QwTQ8z5EkgPXHaUbjzX9LPFbm8olj2stUZWHFGn7soja9Auo5qA/s1600/IMG_4540_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Make the caramel sauce (recipe below)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Punch down and roll into a rectangle - about 1/2 inch thick. I rolled the dough pretty thin, actually, so there would be a lot of layers. Melt 1/2 stick of butter and slather it over the dough. Mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1 Tbs cinnamon and sprinkle over the dough. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzNBAlEHVphDNgeL4Qu0Vjj5CduGRY8b14x96VYH1h2e24EgXN6iTfjppNrkKwwKqsM58YiqBVVXzYT-GC1RE0o6xVyEqU0wd0ufRJ1_j2j7zSP_g4NfkUubXfbbL9Cw4HCuxX1neog/s1600/IMG_4543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzNBAlEHVphDNgeL4Qu0Vjj5CduGRY8b14x96VYH1h2e24EgXN6iTfjppNrkKwwKqsM58YiqBVVXzYT-GC1RE0o6xVyEqU0wd0ufRJ1_j2j7zSP_g4NfkUubXfbbL9Cw4HCuxX1neog/s1600/IMG_4543.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYd5oYTbytwxu-qVdt_eKg_nd90eY1H72lcp3SEz-HuIHLeBIcQKv5Kfm3hiiGL4qyy6lDU34GR249oy5c3xL3NIe_ISppCPr1V3-KiC32sGGfNfIHD7gMc4guuRtaqgbfINKg8DOmKw/s1600/IMG_4545_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYd5oYTbytwxu-qVdt_eKg_nd90eY1H72lcp3SEz-HuIHLeBIcQKv5Kfm3hiiGL4qyy6lDU34GR249oy5c3xL3NIe_ISppCPr1V3-KiC32sGGfNfIHD7gMc4guuRtaqgbfINKg8DOmKw/s1600/IMG_4545_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Start at one end of the rectangle and roll the dough into a log - tightly, so there are lots of layers.</div>
<div>
Cut into 1/2 inch slices.</div>
<div>
<br />
For the caramel sauce (I used <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2014/01/easy-caramel-sauce/" target="_blank">Ree Drummond's recipe </a>and altered...nothing)<br />
<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1/2 stick butter<br />
1/2 cup half and half<br />
1 Tbs vanilla<br />
Pinch of salt<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mix everything together over medium/medium high heat.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMv4pnZPjx2sw0wyJEbeeE_qw2URGha-GLKKNvgG2QvwIiuLrDESf1p7xpReTEDTTaBEz_7CBBNEaYRzsSntyG5Kz81OMm_NiwJi9dOUVGu6ApGNeXfEn0Bu9Uvnbwjaoe2KebU2BsZw/s1600/IMG_4528_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMv4pnZPjx2sw0wyJEbeeE_qw2URGha-GLKKNvgG2QvwIiuLrDESf1p7xpReTEDTTaBEz_7CBBNEaYRzsSntyG5Kz81OMm_NiwJi9dOUVGu6ApGNeXfEn0Bu9Uvnbwjaoe2KebU2BsZw/s1600/IMG_4528_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whisk gently 5-7 minutes. It'll eventually bubble up a lot, but then it calms down. If you want the caramel sauce to be thicker, let it cook a little longer.</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhqHUIvLnVhHAodpd6JOfsBzXevpDrRlALoNbhn59625LQiujpjdBZxVw2z39qTfQq5z7E1avbe-IBAMKTd5siR95lTEF8-Xso6NiHQKIJxoKM6vGPhOqn-0SjF6QXFC1D30Mk7Dfa1w/s1600/IMG_4530_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhqHUIvLnVhHAodpd6JOfsBzXevpDrRlALoNbhn59625LQiujpjdBZxVw2z39qTfQq5z7E1avbe-IBAMKTd5siR95lTEF8-Xso6NiHQKIJxoKM6vGPhOqn-0SjF6QXFC1D30Mk7Dfa1w/s1600/IMG_4530_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0gRTSO2xTKGxv0ioKUGIRKFcvrwAbzQ2m2W2_tw1iF_zF0pIzUPidUdqGkR7IpJ3BOIUq2nWDTfeFxtlMZAX2cs6M457ez3zF_1Dl7uqdHxFLRlFAHwkA6e6_NLiKjC4dYbDh3at4w/s1600/IMG_4532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0gRTSO2xTKGxv0ioKUGIRKFcvrwAbzQ2m2W2_tw1iF_zF0pIzUPidUdqGkR7IpJ3BOIUq2nWDTfeFxtlMZAX2cs6M457ez3zF_1Dl7uqdHxFLRlFAHwkA6e6_NLiKjC4dYbDh3at4w/s1600/IMG_4532.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5KI6UK_74tAGrvKeE0_HpiEk7JjETUbESu6QaO1X399kQlKFSOBNYwavipr3TzUQMV5eFKimEDOanldqrri31jGM4FIGB0mt1Ai6y90836wCe_rUDiY_2x8Sw_UMt4uPROOeByCX2w/s1600/IMG_4529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5KI6UK_74tAGrvKeE0_HpiEk7JjETUbESu6QaO1X399kQlKFSOBNYwavipr3TzUQMV5eFKimEDOanldqrri31jGM4FIGB0mt1Ai6y90836wCe_rUDiY_2x8Sw_UMt4uPROOeByCX2w/s1600/IMG_4529.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
Pour the sauce into a cake pan (put a parchment paper liner at the bottom, first- this makes the rolls easy to turn out later.)<br />
<br />
<br />
Arrange the sliced rolls in the pan with a little space in between them. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let rise another hour or so until they have, again, doubled in size.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5zFkObgRWbIrvA-IjLCLq8DgXwxVMZvV-My1IZo9fehS1tA1P1hSQG7QQ-hPRkdnTMRXeycg58WdRNpSRUNBios3K8XnTYWnwiaQKkrI8AlyI1_6BPYGEwHkyAWKMsHNsxmQdMZUwLQ/s1600/IMG_4548_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5zFkObgRWbIrvA-IjLCLq8DgXwxVMZvV-My1IZo9fehS1tA1P1hSQG7QQ-hPRkdnTMRXeycg58WdRNpSRUNBios3K8XnTYWnwiaQKkrI8AlyI1_6BPYGEwHkyAWKMsHNsxmQdMZUwLQ/s1600/IMG_4548_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5zFkObgRWbIrvA-IjLCLq8DgXwxVMZvV-My1IZo9fehS1tA1P1hSQG7QQ-hPRkdnTMRXeycg58WdRNpSRUNBios3K8XnTYWnwiaQKkrI8AlyI1_6BPYGEwHkyAWKMsHNsxmQdMZUwLQ/s1600/IMG_4548_2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /> </a> </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_udzpd6gG-I-gMizqvsWs7Q4TPBxi-o_TNi3juVl0jvll7E5dVSMbmTyspxjJ7LU7_QTzmlbL0Wcn9ytEKLJHXun9xHCdG8_x8zIYAkCDM3gS1gBuzlrjQRdFN0bVQe8oD7DO4pjJw/s1600/IMG_4549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_udzpd6gG-I-gMizqvsWs7Q4TPBxi-o_TNi3juVl0jvll7E5dVSMbmTyspxjJ7LU7_QTzmlbL0Wcn9ytEKLJHXun9xHCdG8_x8zIYAkCDM3gS1gBuzlrjQRdFN0bVQe8oD7DO4pjJw/s1600/IMG_4549.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes. Test with a toothpick to be sure the inside isn't raw. You can invert the whole pan for a pretty presentation, or just serve individually.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ7lVCeTmgxrJW0DQB2_6dliRVufQTFLNfofYU6fXuLjwn-aPBqEo7SVe9YAvFQJHLlh84pL0QGaM51nMysxXKPOvBzKEFkmfa-Qk4sWtp1za5VkoCH08GD2FO2JfJLebAnHgn9Es5-g/s1600/IMG_4554_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ7lVCeTmgxrJW0DQB2_6dliRVufQTFLNfofYU6fXuLjwn-aPBqEo7SVe9YAvFQJHLlh84pL0QGaM51nMysxXKPOvBzKEFkmfa-Qk4sWtp1za5VkoCH08GD2FO2JfJLebAnHgn9Es5-g/s1600/IMG_4554_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGjKR5h3YgXRsba5G6WG3BYsrsPwCz26OYExpcaDuymAKfJLkxWEqBP58n_d8a4osEd8Yh5M2HyqC8CBuVT0xBmAO9HqlQWHS2ohN5jrQ6LP5Bw8VZoPBwSZNthIBagtYqM6TQCj2Yw/s1600/IMG_4552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGjKR5h3YgXRsba5G6WG3BYsrsPwCz26OYExpcaDuymAKfJLkxWEqBP58n_d8a4osEd8Yh5M2HyqC8CBuVT0xBmAO9HqlQWHS2ohN5jrQ6LP5Bw8VZoPBwSZNthIBagtYqM6TQCj2Yw/s1600/IMG_4552.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> </div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-492539258382496952015-02-07T21:29:00.003-05:002015-02-07T21:51:10.229-05:00Mediterranean Pasta Salad and Winnebagos I never thought I'd say this - but I don't want to see creamy/heavy/fatty food ever again. I mean it this time! After Super Bowl parties and random trips for hospital food, I need to eat clean.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8oGF_8QYtwPjikDJfn0LJySoBwZMMXc2r8z2NaqlSrkyyjxsnA0ivSiq5kQQR7x22WfZq7W5bKu0WFFVJSyCpCuAR44xbCiWKbmnDk220ZC5UlgTKgSadT46gZ5R_GGUw_jfNnyMwSw/s1600/IMG_4459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8oGF_8QYtwPjikDJfn0LJySoBwZMMXc2r8z2NaqlSrkyyjxsnA0ivSiq5kQQR7x22WfZq7W5bKu0WFFVJSyCpCuAR44xbCiWKbmnDk220ZC5UlgTKgSadT46gZ5R_GGUw_jfNnyMwSw/s1600/IMG_4459.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I decided to start with this pasta salad, a variation of one I saw on <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2015/01/mediterranean-orzo-salad/" target="_blank">Ree Drummond's websit</a>e. Normally I'd just skip the pasta and sub out all beans, but I found some super cute ridgy pasta pieces at Trader Joe's and I thought they'd be a fun addition. Ree uses orzo, but I find this type of pasta can get sticky if you overcook it for even a few seconds.<br />
<br />
What You Need:<br />
<br />
Grape tomatoes, baby tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes...just get some tomatoes and slice them in half<br />
1/2 can garbanzo, pinto, or black beans (rinse them so they aren't mushy)<br />
1/2 cup cubed feta<br />
<a href="http://www.delallo.com/files/DLoDitaliniRigati57D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.delallo.com/files/DLoDitaliniRigati57D.jpg" height="187" width="200" /></a>4 scallions, sliced<br />
1 Tbs jalapeno finely chopped with seeds and veins removed<br />
1 cup cooked tiny pasta (I used the Rigati from Delallo)<br />
1/2 cup black or kalamata olives<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
(mix all these together and toss with the dressing - recipe below)<br />
<br />
For the Dressing:<br />
<br />
3 Tbs olive oil<br />
Juice of 1 lemon<br />
6 sprigs thyme, chopped finely<br />
<br />
(put these ingredients in a glass jar and shake shake shake until emulsified)<br />
<br />
I'm also recommending a good heist movie while you daintily chow down on your delicious salad. May I suggest "Sneakers" with the hottie Robert Redford? If you're into some good old fashioned hacking, this is the film to watch - it's taken me two hours to write this post because I keep getting caught up in his shenanigans. Although I have to say, I think I love his co-conspirators more than Robbie. Especially Crease. That fella is bada**Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-36497270061052783182015-01-31T07:59:00.000-05:002015-01-31T07:59:00.102-05:00(Berry) CobblerFor years my family has been using this cobbler recipe which is pretty fabulous. Typically our crowd drinks tea after dinner so a good cake-y thing is a nice accompaniment. That's a word, you know..."cake-y thing." This one is super easy to make, really moist, and absolutely divine even if you use frozen fruit instead of ripe. I happened to have a bag of some frozen berry mix so I used that, but you can sub out anything you like. You could even use apples, but I think it's best with some sort of berry or stone fruit (think, peach or plum, or...both!). But my absolute favorite variation is strawberry rhubarb. So that's why my recipe and the pictures don't coincide.<br />
<div>
<br />
<u>Filling:</u></div>
<div>
<u><br /></u>2 cups sliced rhubarb (1/2-inch thickness)<br />
1 pint strawberries, cleaned, hulled, and sliced<br />
1 tablespoon lemon juice<br />
2/3 cup granulated sugar<br />
3 tablespoons cornstarch</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Over medium high heat start cooking the fruits with the lemon juice. Mix together the cornstarch and sugar until all the lumps are worked out of the starch. <span style="color: magenta;">If you don't do this, there will be icky specks of white all throughout your fruit and they neither taste nor look appetizing. </span>Bring this to a simmer, stirring often. The fruit will start to break down and thicken up. Once you see this, turn off the heat and set aside to cool.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<u>Cobbler:</u></div>
<div>
<u><br /></u>1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1/4 teaspoon salt<br />
1 stick butter, softened<br />
3/4 cup granulated sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1/2 cup sour cream<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees</div>
<div>
Cut the butter into the flour until it's the consistency of a crumble</div>
<div>
Add all the other dry ingredients (baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar)</div>
<div>
Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU52arrDwsQjgX_jhjVQ14HoiGlmCQpjMbzH4O_3a6YAxTmOILH1w2y0Az2dgme4FPZqiIElsz5rD_zQllwM5blJOBrz_7ReWPUr0y6qMFGogZrr7PIcolRvNWUd4aK2Xg0oetdp0HPQ/s1600/IMG_0853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU52arrDwsQjgX_jhjVQ14HoiGlmCQpjMbzH4O_3a6YAxTmOILH1w2y0Az2dgme4FPZqiIElsz5rD_zQllwM5blJOBrz_7ReWPUr0y6qMFGogZrr7PIcolRvNWUd4aK2Xg0oetdp0HPQ/s320/IMG_0853.JPG" height="240" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Grease and flour a 9x9 inch pan if you want a thicken cake, otherwise a 9x13 will work. I did not flour the pan below. So I shall reiterate: grease and flour your pan. Add about 2/3 of the cobbler mix to the bottom of the pan, then all the fruit mixture. Dot the remaining cobbler over the surface of the fruit. This doesn't have to completely cover the fruit - it's actually really pretty to have the fruit peeking out from underneath. I don't have a picture of this...probably because I was licking the spoon with remaining fruit mix at the time...my kitchen, my rules. Bake about 35 minutes for a 9x13 and 45 for a 9x9. The top will be slightly brown and the cake should be cooked through when tested with a toothpick.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CibutNJv3arwUMs0fX5pnlNx6p0VPQvH4EDhf5Pp55nr3os0B9XCGaFu1BTJQ3_1P3YVe1IXmZG6g2rqIsxEcvH39-VuIvFNIfGTylNGuceqZABejvfERSdttHPRYf4OOSqXF8Ihxg/s1600/IMG_0852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CibutNJv3arwUMs0fX5pnlNx6p0VPQvH4EDhf5Pp55nr3os0B9XCGaFu1BTJQ3_1P3YVe1IXmZG6g2rqIsxEcvH39-VuIvFNIfGTylNGuceqZABejvfERSdttHPRYf4OOSqXF8Ihxg/s320/IMG_0852.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-84599629860232891312015-01-23T15:57:00.000-05:002015-01-23T16:09:43.676-05:00Coconut Chili Fish Stew<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKR6a9HZ93c-SlSaLOLuIn0Db9Ue7f0S60YVDgq_UrJQicl7M7heasD4uJ8udKe4rIkYCyhtNhJfQxbBTombFnV6DPDeXDecP4dOiba9Q2_HZ205RiNoF7LB003DzJADaw5yXiJIQ8g/s1600/IMG_4293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKR6a9HZ93c-SlSaLOLuIn0Db9Ue7f0S60YVDgq_UrJQicl7M7heasD4uJ8udKe4rIkYCyhtNhJfQxbBTombFnV6DPDeXDecP4dOiba9Q2_HZ205RiNoF7LB003DzJADaw5yXiJIQ8g/s1600/IMG_4293.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Want to know a secret? I don’t think I’ve ever actually
tasted fish curry. But somehow I’ve been craving it. I’ve been craving seafood in
general, actually. I think fish is a simple way to get variety and nutrients
into your diet. Kind of like roasted vegetables: spice both up with lemon and
fresh herbs and you have an easy, delicious meal.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I made this curry the other night and found it to be quite
tasty. Keep in mind that when you use ingredients that are heavier bodied (béchamel,
coconut milk), the dish can withstand a little more spice so you might need to
add more than the amounts I’ve listed in order to make sure the broth is super
flavorful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBKi4jo5GKqWv_U2l5PcFYkP23zktLdEvEV9ZKYrFqJWrICZgkIQSlr1jWGntac9n5_GdECoVe6W1d-q_Bm289hEFi99u00426-wwN02LPNK_An87M6QoLJhaocz2F2cUXFSBQrmdZw/s1600/IMG_4297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBKi4jo5GKqWv_U2l5PcFYkP23zktLdEvEV9ZKYrFqJWrICZgkIQSlr1jWGntac9n5_GdECoVe6W1d-q_Bm289hEFi99u00426-wwN02LPNK_An87M6QoLJhaocz2F2cUXFSBQrmdZw/s1600/IMG_4297.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Mahi Mahi pieces (I used these from Trader Joe’s)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 can coconut milk<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 lemon<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 lime<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6-7 basil leaves<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ginger powder, garam masala powder, chili powder, red pepper
flakes (1/2 tsp each)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5 cloves garlic<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4 carrots, julienned<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
½ cup bamboo shoots<o:p></o:p><br />
*If I’d had them, I would have added 3 curry leaves and a couple kefir lime leaves as well</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marinate the fish in lemon juice for 30 minutes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fry the garlic then add the carrots and bamboo shoots<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mix in your spices: ginger powder, garam masala powder,
chili powder, red pepper flakes, and curry and lime leaves (if using).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a boil<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nestle the fish into the sauce, making sure the pieces are
totally covered <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Season with pepper and salt and add the chopped basil leaves.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cook 15 min, covered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Serve over rice or as-is, like a stew but make sure to sprinkle with a few fresh basil leaves and a squirt of fresh lime juice.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-62534249930773057362015-01-16T21:47:00.000-05:002015-01-19T12:02:33.016-05:00*Sigh: Shrimp Scampi with Heirloom Tomatoes<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhVbGnW35-z3itIrxxfLeFpxoKrfMDyXlMWKOU7CDO_YKk8aXrPgPfpGEHovWAB9XGigPU-pfuJjT4LAKS9DiBWLBMKJRckqdn3vuQyR4aU7efXj2AQdSxeRs7gC648Etk63RGGATow/s1600/IMG_4270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhVbGnW35-z3itIrxxfLeFpxoKrfMDyXlMWKOU7CDO_YKk8aXrPgPfpGEHovWAB9XGigPU-pfuJjT4LAKS9DiBWLBMKJRckqdn3vuQyR4aU7efXj2AQdSxeRs7gC648Etk63RGGATow/s1600/IMG_4270.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
You know that sigh? The special one reserved for the moment you re-enter your home at the end of a long, and I do mean long, Friday afternoon. Here I sit, wine in hand, Modern Family on the television, having just devoured a giant plate of pasta and feeling, for a moment at least, like my life is on hold. And I don't have to worry about Boards, or moving to a totally different state, or the many giant events I just transcribed onto my wall calendar. It's a good feeling. Should I be concerned that food makes me this content? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This meal took about 10 minutes to make, no kidding. The most time-consuming part is waiting for the water to boil. So do that, super-salty water, bring it to boil, drop in your pasta. I like using plain 'ole spaghetti. Not the angel hair, the regular. And Barilla only, please. I really have found it to be the freshest-tasting.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Since I was cooking for one, I defrosted about 6-7 shrimp and cut 4 mini heirloom tomatoes. I have made it a personal goal to always have lemons in my kitchen. This is a relatively new goal circa umm...this afternoon. But I can literally always find a use for them and they do add a little pizazz to a million different dishes. I also chopped up 2 cloves of garlic but those were already sizzling away in butter by the time I took this picture. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSq9__H3YYfr_MWimbmyEgFJ_PoLrCOho2ypWzrcVxZ4LpNv20Yyk9t6OaqejE6PifYIwLKuGttuvuuSQ8CB-1Po2ii_9kR8UZ0gDEs3PUDepYRYAhSZxa8rk5xfop-NHAFWB4TLWaYA/s1600/IMG_4265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSq9__H3YYfr_MWimbmyEgFJ_PoLrCOho2ypWzrcVxZ4LpNv20Yyk9t6OaqejE6PifYIwLKuGttuvuuSQ8CB-1Po2ii_9kR8UZ0gDEs3PUDepYRYAhSZxa8rk5xfop-NHAFWB4TLWaYA/s1600/IMG_4265.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
In a saucepan, melt 1/2 Tb olive oil and 1/2 Tb butter. Start frying up your garlic and then add the shrimp. You want them to just barely get pink, so arrange them in one layer, season with salt/pepper/and a few red pepper flakes. Turn over and let them finish cooking, then deglaze with a swirl of white wine. Drain the pasta and add to the pan. Squeeze in some lemon and a grating of </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
fresh Parm. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifph3BwOXl5vo02Igs-jXbYAdrypsPXuK1q2cd416m92eRGIeqcKbz8fxOjW_SxxFXueY4LzOJGnd77mQG09t4fB7R80hHaKuEoSYJfVYm977__xPZvivCb1f_cvtUe9yq1W0oSYzfcQ/s1600/IMG_4273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifph3BwOXl5vo02Igs-jXbYAdrypsPXuK1q2cd416m92eRGIeqcKbz8fxOjW_SxxFXueY4LzOJGnd77mQG09t4fB7R80hHaKuEoSYJfVYm977__xPZvivCb1f_cvtUe9yq1W0oSYzfcQ/s1600/IMG_4273.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhVbGnW35-z3itIrxxfLeFpxoKrfMDyXlMWKOU7CDO_YKk8aXrPgPfpGEHovWAB9XGigPU-pfuJjT4LAKS9DiBWLBMKJRckqdn3vuQyR4aU7efXj2AQdSxeRs7gC648Etk63RGGATow/s1600/IMG_4270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9aY1jazy4CCz2aUS86bmhmwjavRAqDjocNQC-IFqANnuTrbmKY9zgSW6UQ_vY3UlYqQUv_EpNtOeGYXubPYdvuNLEprxGSYepXxiqw-b7g5Lzw8x5omzQaq3tW5uSFiaCrdvFrkIYQ/s1600/IMG_4268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9aY1jazy4CCz2aUS86bmhmwjavRAqDjocNQC-IFqANnuTrbmKY9zgSW6UQ_vY3UlYqQUv_EpNtOeGYXubPYdvuNLEprxGSYepXxiqw-b7g5Lzw8x5omzQaq3tW5uSFiaCrdvFrkIYQ/s1600/IMG_4268.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-83536500247358874012015-01-10T10:30:00.004-05:002015-01-21T15:44:15.178-05:00"Decadent"Sometimes when I daydream, I imagine my life in 10 years, or the feeling of my earning my first paycheck, or crazy scenarios involving a guy who's going to whisk me away on a noble steed...whoops...reel it in, girlfriend. But 80% of the time, I'm imagining some new recipe I can experiment with.<br />
<br />
I hadn't made macaroni and cheese in ages, it seemed. Which is pretty close to the truth..2 years is a long time to not have made macaroni and cheese considering how simple it is to throw together. I've never made a Gruyere Mac simply because it's too damn pricey for my grad student budget. But upon a recent peruse at my boy, TJ's, I noticed a Gruyere Cheddar. I bought a small block and took it home to sample the flavor and melting qualities: a-mazing! Definitely worth the trip back for a bigger block, some cremini mushrooms, an onion, and a dream. When you're making a béchamel always remember to pick up a melty kind of benign cheese. Since I wanted to keep my sauce a creamy white, I opted for Monterey Jack instead of an extra sharp cheddar, which sometimes adds a funky aftertaste when paired with super powerful cheeses and tends to melt gritty.<br />
<br />
So here it is guys and dolls...<br />
<br />
Cheddar-Gruyere, Caramelized Onion, Cremini Mushroom, what-the-hell how about some Bacon, Mac and Cheese<br />
<br />
For the béchamel (aka cheese sauce)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBChFYD5QVbYhiJWBbWPbh0lAb0n28rufJiWS94EIkz0CLKsA0AHAJFbYVLTWAl2MjTG_DQRheqeFdqAxI6yGlOCgo9_6REsWVHbkhhFnriTrq8Oy-Hg6dcX6F2Qs87EK87ZsqXIL1GA/s1600/IMG_4240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBChFYD5QVbYhiJWBbWPbh0lAb0n28rufJiWS94EIkz0CLKsA0AHAJFbYVLTWAl2MjTG_DQRheqeFdqAxI6yGlOCgo9_6REsWVHbkhhFnriTrq8Oy-Hg6dcX6F2Qs87EK87ZsqXIL1GA/s1600/IMG_4240.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
1/2 stick butter<br />
3 Tbs flour<br />
2 1/2 - 3 cups milk (I used 2%)<br />
3 cups of cheese (Cheddar Gruyere and Monterey Jack)<br />
salt, pepper, paprika, nutmeg (sprinkle of each)<br />
1/2 tsp ground mustard<br />
<br />
Over medium heat, melt the butter, sprinkle in the flour, and cook the two together for a couple minutes to get the raw out of the flour. Add the milk and stir, stir, stir. The mixture will seem super runny at first but it thickens up quite quickly. Drizzle in more milk if you find it's too tight. Turn the heat off and dump in the cheese - whisk until melted and creamy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtzxKCsuT86CTcOrwVsd6-gFoG3_q2V56C-evU1p64FgPY-zqy0M-8BN7PMaFEqq9CRfwZB05LbDsoaLiWHZ5yTWCJlbf72cR6M59aYrp08cOyYAmeC4UcPRGIPLCf5byVRMhmpxGIQ/s1600/IMG_4239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtzxKCsuT86CTcOrwVsd6-gFoG3_q2V56C-evU1p64FgPY-zqy0M-8BN7PMaFEqq9CRfwZB05LbDsoaLiWHZ5yTWCJlbf72cR6M59aYrp08cOyYAmeC4UcPRGIPLCf5byVRMhmpxGIQ/s1600/IMG_4239.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
For the mix-ins<br />
<br />
1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms<br />
1 1/2 cups onion, thinly sliced<br />
2 slices thick-cut bacon<br />
1 Tb butter<br />
splash of white wine, cooking sherry, or marsala<br />
<br />
Couldn't be easier: Heat a couple Tbs of olive oil and start the onion on medium-low - let this get nice and brown and caramel-y. Add your mushrooms and sauté until cooked through, then the butter and wine. Stir until the liquid is cooked out and set aside to fry up your bacon. To be honest, you could cook the bacon and then all the onions/mushrooms in the bacon grease. Did I seriously just suggest you do that? Geez, good thing I'm not dating a cardiologist-to-be or anything...he'd never let me cook for him again.<br />
<br />
For mac and cheese I like tiny, ridge-y pasta - I wanted to go Classic Mac so I opted for elbows. A little trick I do is drain the pasta and let it sit, pour a couple ladles of the cheese sauce into the same pot and let that heat up, and start adding the pasta a little at a time. Add more cheese sauce or pasta until you have a consistency you like. I added half the mix-ins and served with the other half on top, but if I were to do it again I wouldn't mix anything in - I would have liked to keep that creamy texture and I think the flavors of the toppings would pack more of a punch if they were kept separately.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4caybBztriQqorA-afYX4XT5BOio8nYvYlUs3dCNaKYk1dzQXgNMyZBKBKAJy2eXNmoklQayRBdcSDSkRMUjkbFBh1_GwQEmTMCanyaW_kUmboQQn6zBlU-tLbUHtUXh7Yi5ckOrH7A/s1600/IMG_4241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4caybBztriQqorA-afYX4XT5BOio8nYvYlUs3dCNaKYk1dzQXgNMyZBKBKAJy2eXNmoklQayRBdcSDSkRMUjkbFBh1_GwQEmTMCanyaW_kUmboQQn6zBlU-tLbUHtUXh7Yi5ckOrH7A/s1600/IMG_4241.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
**FYI: this makes a LOT of cheese sauce - just spoon the extra into a plastic Tupperware and freeze until you want to be naughty again. That's called planning ahead, man.</div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-51678260504425812252014-12-29T21:36:00.000-05:002014-12-29T21:36:00.547-05:00Red Pepper Risotto<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Risotto is notoriously one of the most intimidating kitchen undertakings for new cooks. Or seasoned ones, actually. I know I was terrified of making it, especially after going to Italy and eating it all the time. First, I was scared to know how much butter and cream was it it. Second, I knew there was a definite serving temperature requirement: if it got cold it'd be a gelatinous blob of ice. Thirdly, I assumed it'd take hours to make.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These thoughts were incorrect. Risotto is actually creamy because of the starches that develop when the rice cooks. The temperature requirement is kind of true, but if you serve it hot, everything is fine. And the entire process took about 30-40 minutes - including chopping/prep time. Not to shabby.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had some roasted red peppers and chicken thighs in the fridge so I decided to plan the risotto around that. Just chop everything into about the same sized pieces, fry the chicken in olive oil until it is cooked through - then add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Then I added the red pepper and set this aside until the rice was ready.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrBEnjuHMGiOsA9QiBnYeL0VQ1AMtUzChPynA4MiEux23YsXCAXLOBNZfNDmpuhhZkD6WuauokPf9g5OfqoHJs1AQjRpMiiPpI_rV47QGYuCdcf1co2iBaFXR-coqjPeErbCkirNxRdw/s1600/IMG_0965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrBEnjuHMGiOsA9QiBnYeL0VQ1AMtUzChPynA4MiEux23YsXCAXLOBNZfNDmpuhhZkD6WuauokPf9g5OfqoHJs1AQjRpMiiPpI_rV47QGYuCdcf1co2iBaFXR-coqjPeErbCkirNxRdw/s320/IMG_0965.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For the rice, make sure you purchase "arborio." In a saucepan, heat 6 cups of chicken stock - don't let it boil or even simmer...just warm it through. In a nonstick pan, melt 2 Tbs olive oil and fry 1/2 of a finely chopped onion until it's translucent. Add 1 1/2 cups rice and fry until the rice is coated - about 3 minutes. Pour in 1/2 cup white wine and a pinch of salt. Now, start incorporating the stock, 1 cup at a time and making sure it absorbs completely before adding the next increment. This should take about 25 minutes and you might not need all 6 cups of stock. The end consistency is going to be a little looser than rice pudding - the rice shouldn't be super mushy or have a bite to it. I add 1 tsp fresh thyme right at the end for flavor. Turn off the heat, stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and 2 Tbs butter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFH_1uLLQmdnjez4VxOJ4BVB2gdhfD5embW4ZLA36eoSfa_8sTLNXsa0QNp6eIlzyZXQaKPwui8oBMHxAEVMZSTyioncSOAI3tsk95i2r9aiA4aAdnnfTU-N6mBkGIoGEPWb6OKkMIQ/s1600/IMG_0966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFH_1uLLQmdnjez4VxOJ4BVB2gdhfD5embW4ZLA36eoSfa_8sTLNXsa0QNp6eIlzyZXQaKPwui8oBMHxAEVMZSTyioncSOAI3tsk95i2r9aiA4aAdnnfTU-N6mBkGIoGEPWb6OKkMIQ/s320/IMG_0966.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Serve up your risotto with a nice helping of the chicken/pepper mixture on top:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmAj9GqEB-X3EIIYVMF0EeCvH636NC4O5tnl5VcOxA3KwTBFEMPfn2NIDISEq371tS1mfSu2oGNiuBXldN0nrfHMBUxJKsyEbSPZWWy7-VxMIopayCvkCs8jfMvuLYj08XOzcA-kq8w/s1600/IMG_0970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmAj9GqEB-X3EIIYVMF0EeCvH636NC4O5tnl5VcOxA3KwTBFEMPfn2NIDISEq371tS1mfSu2oGNiuBXldN0nrfHMBUxJKsyEbSPZWWy7-VxMIopayCvkCs8jfMvuLYj08XOzcA-kq8w/s320/IMG_0970.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-39936127146884391352014-12-20T20:25:00.000-05:002014-12-20T20:25:00.116-05:00Doctored Up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://eatingatjoes.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/trader-joes-kung-pao-chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://eatingatjoes.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/trader-joes-kung-pao-chicken.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
One of my favorite Instagram hashtags lately has been #ilearnedthisfrommymama. It usually accompanies some 10 minute meal I've made with whatever random crap happens to be in the cupboards because I've been too lazy to go to the store. Plus, sometimes I like the challenge of turning some seemingly boring pre-packaged thing into a full blown, home-cooked meal. My mom used to do that all the time and she always has jars of gourmet product which looked "interesting" to her at the Korean store or wherever she happened to visit that day for fun. I do that too...wander into cool looking ethnic grocery markets and pick up containers of things I can't pronounce. Our habit is probably going to go horribly wrong one day, but so far it's worked for both of us. Some people jump out of parachutes...we do this. #wecool #likemotherlikedaughter<br />
<br />
Can you tell I'm really in love with hashtags? I totally used them before they were a "thing."<br />
<br />
One of the easiest pre-packaged freezer items which can be passed off as home-made are the Asian stirfry packets. I had the Kung Pao Chicken one from Trader Joe on hand the other day. Upon opening the bag, I was not impressed. The chicken seemed alright, the sauces looked way too thick (which made me think they were full of corn syrup and salt), and the veggies were very freezer burned. Veggies are a tricky thing with frozen stir fry meals because typically the vegetables one uses - bell pepper and onion - have a lot of water in them and so freezing and unfreezing tends to mess with the flavor and texture.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiWmWYR4zn8G1HWAc7JEvEGVhZGjIiEI7TDYm74tiy8pwPA8SgAU5amCyeZddifTDlvuYk1nUuN32kMY4jboKwItTWikUhB050y9zjzwDgNr5yHgIU7ZgpB5bQlb-sTEhyphenhyphenxyMiAzsgbSw/s1600/IMG_4034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiWmWYR4zn8G1HWAc7JEvEGVhZGjIiEI7TDYm74tiy8pwPA8SgAU5amCyeZddifTDlvuYk1nUuN32kMY4jboKwItTWikUhB050y9zjzwDgNr5yHgIU7ZgpB5bQlb-sTEhyphenhyphenxyMiAzsgbSw/s1600/IMG_4034.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is taken from a fellow blogger's website: my vegetables were BrrrrNED!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, how do you fix this? First off, don't be afraid to think outside the bag. Yes, I understand you bought the dang thing to prevent having to pick up a knife. But to be honest, I don't mind putting in a little work if it means making something super tasty. And on the particular day I was doctoring up my bag of TJ KP Cxn, I was in a VERY good mood, super relaxed, and enjoying a wonderful afternoon of planned hooky. Because we've already talked about my admittedly over-zealous planning tendencies.<br />
<br />
The first thing I did was cook the chicken as directed (stir fry in olive oil). I added salt, pepper, garlic powder, and some red pepper flakes. I started about 1 1/2 cups of short-grained rice in the rice cooker so that could work while I did (get it - hardy har har). I had some frozen Parisian carrots in the freezer so I steamed those off (take a shallow sauce pan, fill with 1/2 inch of water, bring water to a simmer, set in a heat-proof strainer, add the vegetables, cover and cook about 10-15 minutes until they are tender). Then I steamed some edamame (also frozen) and shelled those (you could also buy them pre-shelled).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imavex.vo.llnwd.net/o18/clients/urbanfarm/images/Carrots/Parisian-Carrot-Seeds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://imavex.vo.llnwd.net/o18/clients/urbanfarm/images/Carrots/Parisian-Carrot-Seeds.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-WLcLstMmM/TxG7bkVTyRI/AAAAAAAAAco/gqltXgYrf-s/s1600/IMG_9414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-WLcLstMmM/TxG7bkVTyRI/AAAAAAAAAco/gqltXgYrf-s/s1600/IMG_9414.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After all the fresh vegetables (well, frozen turned fresh-tasting) were done, I added them to the chicken along with the cooked rice. A couple dashes of soy sauce, some Korean oyster sauce, and a bit more salt, pepper, and garlic power later I had an amazing meal which was ready in about the time it takes a person to have a phone conversation with a colleague and move a car before it's parking time limit expires. You kind of had to be there...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My apologies for not having pictures - the finished meal looks very similar to fried rice. And I pinky swear it was yummy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-WLcLstMmM/TxG7bkVTyRI/AAAAAAAAAco/gqltXgYrf-s/s1600/IMG_9414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-69460897583695851202014-12-11T14:00:00.000-05:002014-12-11T14:00:02.564-05:00I have a theory......that every 3-4 years your life gets turned upside down and you have to re-group.<br />
<br />
Last week I learned I will be moving to Iowa for 2 years. I am actually extremely excited about this (despite the numerous jabs about corn fields and tractors)... but with the excitement comes that queasy feeling. The one regimented people such as myself get when the word "change" enters a sentence. This lovely city has been mine for 5 years. My room has held so many tears and cheers and while I gripe about the horrible Virginia drivers and sweltering summers, I can't deny the fact that Richmond has been "home." And now I will be leaving.<br />
<br />
I wanted to highlight a couple places I've tried lately, so that perhaps some young girl, fresh out of undergrad can stumble upon this post and figure out her eating situation for the night. Or not...let's be real - I'm really writing this post so I can reminisce about "that random time Rini and I NEEDED pizza" or "I was bored, anxious, and wanted to treat myself."<br />
<br />
<b>Lamplighter Roasting Co:</b> Coffee houses say a lot about a city. I love local coffee and I think the vibe of a coffeeshop sets the tone for the area. Lamplighter delivers excellent coffee made by hipster baristas with purple hair. Very Richmond and I love it - they also have cool daily specials like "The Golden Latte" with ginger and turmeric.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2ZxHsY0-CeCC0P6-o2BZ0KItilxO8AgB17aMma7zpDn1XY5YZdtNvPATCCNK5i7Ll-8MAC1mX26mAZknzF7xTosEkySOTKmtwYFcDzbGHM1IOVSrRHtCtidTCSP-7oDJ-IHu_z3zIw/s1600/IMG_3616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2ZxHsY0-CeCC0P6-o2BZ0KItilxO8AgB17aMma7zpDn1XY5YZdtNvPATCCNK5i7Ll-8MAC1mX26mAZknzF7xTosEkySOTKmtwYFcDzbGHM1IOVSrRHtCtidTCSP-7oDJ-IHu_z3zIw/s1600/IMG_3616.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>8 1/2 Pizza: </b>Actually, this is a full Italian restaurant but it's too small to actually sit down and dine in. I always get pizza from here, though - it's super flavorful without weighing you down. They truly understand the philosophy behind "less is more." This breakfast pizza has 4 ingredients which really pack a punch. And they make everything so fast you literally only have to wait as long as it takes for you to get from your apartment to their establishment to eat it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7TfAWnkgo_FE34jJN8p7eggmactUgWr_1FWuho-L_zX49Kgd2MTFNDmC8B6H0tunGIBu-rwkgekKLdOmL_YgWSpUysm6fX8VMz4j9nIBWTZByxvCP54VSPjxE9del4sXUek8BHIBJA/s1600/IMG_3635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7TfAWnkgo_FE34jJN8p7eggmactUgWr_1FWuho-L_zX49Kgd2MTFNDmC8B6H0tunGIBu-rwkgekKLdOmL_YgWSpUysm6fX8VMz4j9nIBWTZByxvCP54VSPjxE9del4sXUek8BHIBJA/s1600/IMG_3635.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Pasture: </b>When Pasture opened up down the street from me, it was The Cool Kid on the Block for sure. The head chef here aimed to create a menu featuring only local ingredients and he's kept his promise years later. I especially love their hand-crafted cocktails which never disappoint. Speaking of never disappointing - Pasture has the best burger in town. Singular: they only have one on the menu but they do it perfectly. And Pasture is the only place I've dined at which actually gives you a true medium rare (not some overdone variation) - and they make their own pickles. This is a big deal because I loooove me some pickles! The french fries are also pretty fabulous - and they give you just the right amount.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_GyRGQXgNQMH2BUzwxI7NxBMwI9RQIDtb25KaBn-CAfjYKWvDncISa93uh22S8-sABY2cA7Zg6CiSWMDeLeUTICqguAPAmfQL30lcfW2JWheh_enA6FHjY7Zb3FsXXsI_P-1WpeQ8A/s1600/IMG_3654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_GyRGQXgNQMH2BUzwxI7NxBMwI9RQIDtb25KaBn-CAfjYKWvDncISa93uh22S8-sABY2cA7Zg6CiSWMDeLeUTICqguAPAmfQL30lcfW2JWheh_enA6FHjY7Zb3FsXXsI_P-1WpeQ8A/s1600/IMG_3654.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MQnhmVDR0Di1hQPb3NkOQoysqYyzCxk8HKuAZt4BHxy1IYm6sHNChI5hSiluGBDvS_e5ZmQPXWIwVU2DmPhU5kOOme_i_DQrwc51_8aiOW5Fb8Hcj1bnByRV21I7PZppCxM8Veq-KQ/s1600/IMG_3659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MQnhmVDR0Di1hQPb3NkOQoysqYyzCxk8HKuAZt4BHxy1IYm6sHNChI5hSiluGBDvS_e5ZmQPXWIwVU2DmPhU5kOOme_i_DQrwc51_8aiOW5Fb8Hcj1bnByRV21I7PZppCxM8Veq-KQ/s1600/IMG_3659.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-6509662890641516382014-12-05T22:40:00.000-05:002014-12-07T10:11:24.540-05:00Tackling ThanksgivingThis year's Thanksgiving was extra special because whereas in 2013 we had chicken curry in lieu of turkey, this year I cooked my own 13 pounder. For 3 people...welcome to a Persian kitchen. I don't think I could make a small meal if my life depended on it! Luckily, the whole process was incredibly easy due to time management and the help of my dear friend, Silvija, who came down from DC so we could celebrate together. We were college roommates freshman year at Michigan so there was a lot of catching up to do.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDX4KHvrIUtgP80pASvtum2VvC2Gy7rd5oTYcqNx33iwQ6HjKoRBbKzYv0Nyzzn9Eo23rYWe-dnVXq7cswl9_jjeRuA9vdz-A_SVBlFL7Jg4auyFYO99mFNcPzHkuDkxU7IV144HYAGA/s1600/IMG_3607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDX4KHvrIUtgP80pASvtum2VvC2Gy7rd5oTYcqNx33iwQ6HjKoRBbKzYv0Nyzzn9Eo23rYWe-dnVXq7cswl9_jjeRuA9vdz-A_SVBlFL7Jg4auyFYO99mFNcPzHkuDkxU7IV144HYAGA/s1600/IMG_3607.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When I was growing up, Thanksgiving was such a production - mostly because we were scrambling to make everything the day-of. My mom would do all the grocery shopping the night before with the other 10 million people who'd been avoiding the task and we'd start at 7am and cook until 8pm. Good times, although we were so exhausted come dinner-time that neither she nor I wanted to even look at the food. This year I did things in my own color-coded, highly organized, 10-lists needed, OCD way. Two days before Thanksgiving I made my cranberry sauce, cheesecake, and mashed potatoes (Ree Drummond is a genius with mashed potatoes and I religiously follow her recipe). One day before I chopped all the veggies and fruits I knew I'd be using. The day-of was so stress free I had time to enjoy Silvija's company over a cup of coffee, go on a walk, and take a nap - all while our little turkey was cooking in the oven. While it rested (1 hour), we made a salad, corn pudding, and the stuffing. Easy peasy. I am so looking forward to the day I am a real person with a real house which I can decorate with cute pumpkins and fill with the energy of family and friends. But this year was pretty special and memorable and honestly, I was the happiest I've been in a very long time.<br />
<br />
Two things always accompanied my family's Tgiving spread: pumpkin pie and Persian stuffing (so called because it's our take on the American version - rice based and full of dried fruits and turmeric). Here's a dirty little secret: I don't like pumpkin pie. Something about the texture and the fact that I don't feel comfortable shoving a bunch of sugar into perfectly good gourd (jury's still out on whether pumpkin is classified as a gourd). I'd rather just eat the pumpkin roasted as a savory something. But throwing it into a cheesecake... I am totally on board with that little plan. So I came up with this recipe. Cheesecakes = help with time management because you can make them 2 days before and they actually taste better!<br />
<br />
Happy holidays, loves - enjoy the cheesecake.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgl9Dc8o6zM4032NKPGuokLJpR3X0bZ64hOtFT-l3VNyXk0PRUOogAuI64rtnqMj4l7WDjGCvDMEtxX3mtTy7upIw_JyMoJGF60iyk6JeXoWZMnZOygRyuKd7VJEVVuGHQif4hw_6uQ/s1600/IMG_3600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgl9Dc8o6zM4032NKPGuokLJpR3X0bZ64hOtFT-l3VNyXk0PRUOogAuI64rtnqMj4l7WDjGCvDMEtxX3mtTy7upIw_JyMoJGF60iyk6JeXoWZMnZOygRyuKd7VJEVVuGHQif4hw_6uQ/s1600/IMG_3600.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<u><br /></u>
<u>Pumpkin Cheesecake</u><br />
Serves...a lot more than three people<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<em>For crust</em><br />
1 ½ cup gingersnaps<br />
1 tsp cinnamon <br />
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<em>For filling</em><br />
1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin<br />
3 large eggs<br />
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar<br />
2 tablespoons milk<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
1/2 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 tablespoon cornstarch<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon (put a littl<span style="text-align: center;">e more after tasting)</span><br />
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (put a little more after tasting)<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (put a little more after tasting)<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature<br />
<br />
<i>Topping: </i> 1 cup sour cream + 2-3Tbs milk + 1/4 cup confectioner's sugar + 1/2 tsp almond extract<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Make crust: Butter a cheesecake pan, mix the crumbs and butter then pack
into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. Bake in a 375 degree oven
for 10-12 min, until it is golden. Take out and allow to cool while you make
the filling.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicaNI9hEvFi6GOjVzUZr1aNaADPMKY9OdY1Y3FWWpgh_JfrBUpTjRVoHT0uSSWc2t3n9as44gQNYTxDhOo9S4JI1xReeJLgxY_G9cLQevsUkOlHXmd4l4cUZMVLcQCyVkYmYLjY0q6QQ/s1600/IMG_3577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicaNI9hEvFi6GOjVzUZr1aNaADPMKY9OdY1Y3FWWpgh_JfrBUpTjRVoHT0uSSWc2t3n9as44gQNYTxDhOo9S4JI1xReeJLgxY_G9cLQevsUkOlHXmd4l4cUZMVLcQCyVkYmYLjY0q6QQ/s1600/IMG_3577.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350°F.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Whisk together pumpkin, eggs, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl until
combined.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixw0wq9WJnlgC8V0_5QOjQzSRq9yx0YFBb_4y_S0lhvCrLFNXPYyoFolq3faV1GzEW3svTtnI6xIfjhGYqpR7MPvCdHaKcINrihgtSd9f9tGcPR2Y79XXx2yA3OqzyNMunXulispIQGg/s1600/IMG_3579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixw0wq9WJnlgC8V0_5QOjQzSRq9yx0YFBb_4y_S0lhvCrLFNXPYyoFolq3faV1GzEW3svTtnI6xIfjhGYqpR7MPvCdHaKcINrihgtSd9f9tGcPR2Y79XXx2yA3OqzyNMunXulispIQGg/s1600/IMG_3579.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Stir together granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and
salt in large bowl. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Add cream cheese and beat with an electric mixer at high speed until creamy
and smooth, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to medium, then add pumpkin mixture
and beat until smooth.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIkgZHhzBxCbDuewYY8swg09eDe4-WEHSOELPmX7Wv4m6IuASpJFviBiY5vD-J7xVnmpIWHGXH0pL14NcjmilXGg3MhUWWp6ynR4r3VpR9YV5T51DrUjgN-5twdaJqjfDHKYa4IKkMg/s1600/IMG_3578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIkgZHhzBxCbDuewYY8swg09eDe4-WEHSOELPmX7Wv4m6IuASpJFviBiY5vD-J7xVnmpIWHGXH0pL14NcjmilXGg3MhUWWp6ynR4r3VpR9YV5T51DrUjgN-5twdaJqjfDHKYa4IKkMg/s1600/IMG_3578.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Pour filling into crust, smoothing top, then put springform pan in a shallow
baking pan (in case springform leaks).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2dRXIb75Ohjy0Uy66ys4V3PrHPTayPowU9_7R2bCyP4lsPgJ9zoyArJnMhoXvnpMEku7V-tCrCE3HMGrMV_EDRwJ7W_08RfCT_jMVgbSSg-OYEXoZzTnOnwZ_YqYlGXgMXOgVuD9og/s1600/IMG_3582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2dRXIb75Ohjy0Uy66ys4V3PrHPTayPowU9_7R2bCyP4lsPgJ9zoyArJnMhoXvnpMEku7V-tCrCE3HMGrMV_EDRwJ7W_08RfCT_jMVgbSSg-OYEXoZzTnOnwZ_YqYlGXgMXOgVuD9og/s1600/IMG_3582.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
Bake until center is just set, 50 to 60
minutes. The center of the cheesecake
will jiggle but if the top is no longer shiny and there is springbuck to the touch, you are done. Turn the over off but leave the cheesecake in
with the door closed while the oven cools down.
Then crack the oven door and let the cheesecake slowly cool off.<br />
<br />
Once the cheesecake is cool, mix the topping ingredients adding more milk to thin it out if needed and more confectioner's sugar if it tastes too tart. Pour this over the cheesecake and refrigerate for 2 hours.<br />
<br />
Wrap with plastic and chill overnight. Bring to
room temperature before serving.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Garnish with gingersnaps.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioH1nkFxcAT9aeQ2f3mEt4D3bgEqxD-5hCHtQszMMOCsp2US_Nfrmi_e1aaTck_KwcX6tCEeyLR_K8RDeZk3FxpbM4vrmWucwU0xX6TD8Bgl5iUtWCYv4IvzYzy0hlpoCLIoYnbWsyw/s1600/IMG_3599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioH1nkFxcAT9aeQ2f3mEt4D3bgEqxD-5hCHtQszMMOCsp2US_Nfrmi_e1aaTck_KwcX6tCEeyLR_K8RDeZk3FxpbM4vrmWucwU0xX6TD8Bgl5iUtWCYv4IvzYzy0hlpoCLIoYnbWsyw/s1600/IMG_3599.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-47990887423598650142014-10-16T14:20:00.001-04:002014-10-16T14:20:04.556-04:00Hitting the Spot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuF8irY1XzyTQMNbTpEfr7eVtxFpdUpOtxN_MR7TcfIvm4AtrCyRl00Fuujj-dLuUCnHrRM1LKSpn57iPSR44TNd2cCP56deAHpxz4D8pX9y1X0gZT6HYV2DqKhadSj8bxGXN54vTMw/s1600/IMG_3307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuF8irY1XzyTQMNbTpEfr7eVtxFpdUpOtxN_MR7TcfIvm4AtrCyRl00Fuujj-dLuUCnHrRM1LKSpn57iPSR44TNd2cCP56deAHpxz4D8pX9y1X0gZT6HYV2DqKhadSj8bxGXN54vTMw/s1600/IMG_3307.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Some days it's nice to grab a girl and hit the town together. Other times…most, actually, as of late, what really hits the spot is a home-cooked meal and a night in our sweats. So that's what Carrie and I did last weekend. And it was pretty fabulous.<br />
<br />
<br />
I had originally suggested pizza night and a movie - then my lovely/smart/fellow-food-lover friend sent me the following text message: "How does salmon sounds? With a lemon caper garlic sauce?" Forget pizza, this was exactly what I needed but didn't know it.<br />
<br />
The whole meal, since 2 sets of hands were involved, only took about a hour to make. And that's on the upper end of time estimates - because we had to stop for random chit chat and song sing-alongs, of course. Because what's a Girls' Night without lots of ever-so-important chit chat? A Guys' Night, that's what. Just kidding, I'm pretty sure guys chat more than gals sometimes.<br />
<br />
Roasting the perfect salmon filet is actually quite simple - Carrie took this on and I watched because lately I've been cooking my poor fish past the point of no return. This is due to the fact, I suspect, that I've been baking mine straight out the freezer. Incorrect, loves. Let your frozen fish thaw completely before setting it on a piece of parchment. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and layer over thinly sliced lemon. Bake at 325 degrees for 25-30 minutes, checking towards the end. Once the (salmon in this case) goes from a reddish pink to a light pink, you know you're ready to pull it out.<br />
<br />
We roasted some tri-colored carrots from Trader Joe's alongside the fish. Usually I roast vegetables at 425 degrees for 20 minutes to get a good caramelization on them but then the timing of serving would be off ( # woes of not being a real person with a double oven), so we simply let them cook until tender at 325 with the fish, then jacked up the temp to 400 while the salmon was resting on the cutting board.<br />
<br />
Mashed potatoes - simple, can't screw them up - unless you beat them to death in a mixer. I typically stay away from using a mixer for my mashed potatoes. I've seen plenty of Southern grandmas use theirs though, and their mashed potatoes are loads better than mine, so give it it try if you'd like. I have an idea - call me crazy - that this might be because Southern grandmas also have no problem throwing in enough cream, sour cream, and butter to counteract the starch in the potatoes. We simply peeled about 5 medium-sized tots and boiled them (with 5 cloves of garlic) until very tender. Then we drained everything, added ummmm… half a stick of butter (don't look while you do this), salt, pepper, about 1/4 cup skim milk and mashed away with a hand masher.<br />
<br />
The only thing left was to make a sauce, a lemon caper sauce to be exact. Sounds really fancy, but was super simple. This is totally Carrie's recipe so I give the credit completely to her. Melt 1 stick of butter with 1 Tbs capers. Add the juice of half a lemon and 2 cloves crushed garlic. Let meld together over medium heat for about 10 minutes (or until the butter is melted and starts to bubble a bit).<br />
<br />
The sauce was technically supposed to go over the salmon but who's to care if I splashed it over everything? Twice.Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-57750997557094155012014-06-05T18:03:00.001-04:002014-06-05T18:05:22.396-04:00DC Eats - Founding Farmers<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/youngandhungry/files/2010/02/founding-farmers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/youngandhungry/files/2010/02/founding-farmers.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><a href="http://therestaurantfairy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_4912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://therestaurantfairy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_4912.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, this blog has covered eateries in the DC area before,
but let’s be real…tastes change as we get older. And I don’t mean
palate-wise (although this is part of it), but also atmosphere and service. I’d
like to share the name of a wonderful place I tried this past Sunday for
brunch: <a href="http://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/" target="_blank">Founding Farmers</a>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Doesn’t the name just say it all? I love a tongue and cheek
title, especially when it evokes images of a pastoral lifestyle: wholesome and
fresh. Which the restaurant was, and I was not in any was disappointed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
Founding Farmers has 2 locations – we went to the one close
to the Foggy Bottom metro stop. Make reservations because from what I gather,
the spot is always poppin’ so either be prepared to eat at the bar or wait a
looooong time. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We went for brunch but it was nice that they also served off their lunch menu – some places (usually smaller ones) will just offer brunch on Sunday
mornings. The menu is quite diverse, but not overwhelming, which I appreciated.
They also make a lot of things in house: sodas, breads, desserts (think fresh beignets) which is nice to see. The space is gorgeous: light and airy, large
booths and good-sized tables. The wait staff wear farmer aprons which is kind
of cute. They are all on a mission though, and it was a little hard to get
their attention for extra water or pens to sign the tab.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I got the pastrami hash (which came with two poached eggs
and a yummy hollandaise) and the bananas foster French toast. I have a thing
about French toast…it has to be dense and really soft with a good crunch. I
hate dry French toast, which a lot of restaurants unfortunately have come to
market as the norm. This one, however, blew me a way. They use a brioche loaf and
cut it into cute little logs, stuff them with pastry cream, and douse in caramel
bananas foster. It was amazing. Life changing, maybe. Okay, I exggarate… The
pastrami hash was not oily, really fresh, and super flavorful – the fact that
it was covered in a superb hollandaise was a huge plus. You already know my
thing about<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>poached eggs providing a
natural sauce, so this was a great addition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The hollandaise, by the way, wasn’t really acidic like many I’ve had
recently. I ordered a hash to go – it was that good.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbcXwuavAyG_WpO1Vgmh-s5D9wn628kI1h_TC181whTcHT0SQQIqVQia9XiD-BdZH0dU_yo1dQaM8Krn5PIk3XLtg3ZCeyLVGAkbpiAtGBL0Pal_gi8i-OtJjAxGbIRReQBrA8fKP7WA/s1600/IMG_2706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbcXwuavAyG_WpO1Vgmh-s5D9wn628kI1h_TC181whTcHT0SQQIqVQia9XiD-BdZH0dU_yo1dQaM8Krn5PIk3XLtg3ZCeyLVGAkbpiAtGBL0Pal_gi8i-OtJjAxGbIRReQBrA8fKP7WA/s1600/IMG_2706.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pRXiMKkbwh2obr_erUNLh_W3ZNxzIREi0WDDxXIDC3OIIk1SsXc33Cx9e5IcdDzoEEAdn4w84iS3moQump4Oulyh2p-ul9uTOEaEb17XxS_RsbNB-DwlFCTOaaXC-loNVTUYT4d7RA/s1600/IMG_2707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pRXiMKkbwh2obr_erUNLh_W3ZNxzIREi0WDDxXIDC3OIIk1SsXc33Cx9e5IcdDzoEEAdn4w84iS3moQump4Oulyh2p-ul9uTOEaEb17XxS_RsbNB-DwlFCTOaaXC-loNVTUYT4d7RA/s1600/IMG_2707.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We finalized our meal by ordering the beignets even though
we were stuffed to maximum capacity. Do I regret this? Not a bit. The pate de
choux (aka dough) was perfect: chewy with pockets of air and a great crunch
on the outside. The sauces: chocolate, raspberry, and caramel were great, too.
I’m more a beignet purist so I shy away from dousing mine in sauces, but I tried each separately and they were really quality. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So there you have it: a new must-try in DC. I know it’ll be
a regular revisit for me whenever I have a sweet or savory brunch craving. Which is always. <o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-26143619110414896912014-05-24T09:38:00.002-04:002014-05-24T09:38:58.022-04:00Kimchi Fried RiceLet's just cut the chase, shall we? I procrastinated, I was lazy, life happened, so a year later, I am getting back to blogging. Or trying to. My motto for this year is: be fearless. In other words, don't let myself get intimidated by the "what ifs" in a situation - to woman-up and get things done. And this has gotten me through some rough clinic days because somehow, my D4 year has already been filled with more than a few.<br />
<br />
So along the lines of my Be Fearless campaign, I am posting this recipe to help my fellow friends jump on the bandwagon. It's probably one of my favorite go-to recipes and encompasses many things which make a meal super delish: bold flavors and a runny egg which is God's way of saying, "Why are you bothering to make a sauce when I've given it to you?"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2011/1/21/1295632083265/Kimchi-007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2011/1/21/1295632083265/Kimchi-007.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I like <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-cabbage-kimchi-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-189390" target="_blank">this blogger's</a> explanation of kimchi and I just might try to make my own sometime. But kimichi is, in a nutshell (or eggshell haha), fermented cabbage. It's a traditional Korean food and I can thank my roommate for introducing me to it. Cabbage is chopped, pickling spices added, and it is usually stored in the ground for some time for the flavors to develop. Her grandma makes it every year and somehow, the idea of a little Korean grandma pickling cabbage and storing jars in her garden makes it all the more delightful to consume because of the love that went into it. What is it about grandmas that make everything better?<br />
<br />
You can eat kimchi fresh (as in, just pickled) with meals for a milder taste or you can use the super fermented stuff in something like this, kimchi fried rice. It's so good. You will love me after you make it. One day, I'm going to win a foe over with this stuff.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.asianfoodgrocer.com/img/prods/food/lkk/chi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.asianfoodgrocer.com/img/prods/food/lkk/chi.jpg" /></a>Some tips when you make fried rice: use day-old rice. I personally never have day old rice, so I make about 4 cups the day before I'm planning to make this and store it in the fridge overnight. Older rice is hard so it fries up really nicely and absorbs the flavors. Also, use short-grain rice. Not Jasmine rice or Basmati...short grain. Can you believe this is coming from a born and raised Persian? My mom would not be happy.<br />
<br />
What You Need:<br />
<br />
2 cups chopped Kimchi (you can find this at any Asian market, it should be in the refrigerator case)<br />
1 cup finely chopped onion<br />
4 cloves chopped garlic<br />
1/2 tsp Chili Garlic sauce, also available at the Asian market or Kroger, actually<br />
3 Tbs soy sauce, low sodium<br />
4 cups short grain rice, cooked and refrigerated the night before<br />
salt and pepper<br />
1 egg<br />
<br />
What You Do:<br />
<br />
Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium high heat<br />
Fry the onions till they are translucent, not dark and caramalized. Add garlic and give it a stir<br />
Add the kimchi and fry for about 5 minutes<br />
Dump the rice in - you might need to break it up if it's stuck together<br />
Add soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and some pepper (it'll be pretty salty from the soy and kimchi so hold off on that)<br />
Continue cooking until the rice is dark and a little crunchy. It might stick to the bottom of the pan so stir constantly. Stop cooking when it's the color you like (I prefer a darker fried rice). You might need to add a little more oil to get a good crunch on but usually I put enough in at the beginning with the onions that it carries over to when I add the rice.<br />
Transfer the fried rice to a bowl and fry an<br />
egg, sunny side up. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and lay over top the kimchi fried rice. Maybe sure the yolk runs into the rice when you eat it - it's sinfully delicious.<br />
<br />
Till next time, friends! Be Fearless!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uM4Aj-bJjS-XblM29XaK6os_gVTKifDSTfOG36cTM4iQullhIUEWT3VU717JIcv4t6yRsgFEhmtKy8dW3cY9CTuBRNrd64mdXoUiuvarbOxKQSRwNTdCuVeSkSM_6AbMS6CBS8g3CA/s1600/IMG_2643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uM4Aj-bJjS-XblM29XaK6os_gVTKifDSTfOG36cTM4iQullhIUEWT3VU717JIcv4t6yRsgFEhmtKy8dW3cY9CTuBRNrd64mdXoUiuvarbOxKQSRwNTdCuVeSkSM_6AbMS6CBS8g3CA/s1600/IMG_2643.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-74053787348339494532013-08-24T11:01:00.001-04:002013-08-24T11:08:12.293-04:00A Year In Updates<br />
<ol>
<li>It's almost been a year since my last post. Guilt factor 9 out of 10. I had to take some time off to study and focus on career goals.</li>
<li>I was starting to hate myself for being "that" person - you know, the one who sticks their camera in your food. I needed to get back to my roots. </li>
<li>Posting twice a week was a little much for my schedule and I want to post quality, not quantity. So, starting this week I'll be writing 1/week or bi-weekly. </li>
<li>Speaking of quality, notice more stories about the absolutely amazing friends I've made here. </li>
<li>Restaurant reviews are going to be featured a little more seeing as I BOUGHT MY FIRST CAR this summer and am not chained to my apartment or at the mercy of others' palates.</li>
<li>To kick off the new blog, I've re-vamped the cover page so it's a little fresher and more polished.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Look for new recipes soon - lots of love!</div>
<div>
~Sheila</div>
Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-77847981861386628292012-09-18T09:00:00.000-04:002012-09-18T09:00:01.051-04:00A Long Anticipated Brunch at Millie's <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Millie’s in The Bottom has been touted as the best brunch
spot in Richmond so when my friend and I were undecided as to where to go
for brunch last weekend, I quickly suggested we give it a try.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was really excited and did my research
beforehand: I checked foodie blogs, contacted a local foodie friend, and read the
menu to narrow down the options that I liked best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3bnixZDiU-2DTYweHF9kDm2FvepMgiQdHvE-Poqn_5MWb2CcPsQG_5qadZcxVQgMuFvYWg0dGPYY86eOSU5xxGDR1H-cFMqm3CL7Ko64OBqlM22zlI7X9-CArLrzBOK3G3529KatKrA/s1600/IMG_0931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3bnixZDiU-2DTYweHF9kDm2FvepMgiQdHvE-Poqn_5MWb2CcPsQG_5qadZcxVQgMuFvYWg0dGPYY86eOSU5xxGDR1H-cFMqm3CL7Ko64OBqlM22zlI7X9-CArLrzBOK3G3529KatKrA/s320/IMG_0931.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We got there right when they opened and there was still a
bit of a wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It went by really
quickly, though and before I knew it we were being shooed into a booth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish I’d had a little more time to look
around since we were seated in the side room (the one that’s not part of the
bar).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did manage to catch a glimpse of
the kitchen, which is literally to the right of the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just hanging out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Free as a bird. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was a little taken aback at how abrupt the servers
were.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t get me wrong – they were
nice, they just seemed to be rushing us to get in and get out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But that’s how some local RVA joints operate,
I suppose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Millie’s doesn’t do substitutions,
by the way, so don’t try and ask for fruit instead of potatoes or white bread
instead of wheat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had read this on the
menu beforehand and wasn’t going to push my luck once I got there.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided I was going to get one of their many “messes” and
pass on a drink – although I hear they are pretty good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been craving a Bloody Mary lately, but
am just not going to spend $7 on one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Especially when my meal cost $11.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The mess I chose was the “Cajun” one because I’ve also been wanting some
seafood and a little somthin’ spicy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
others at my table got their “Veggie mess,” the “Cuban mess,” and their Eggs
Benedict (which was way too sinful for me since it’s served on a croissant and
not an English muffin).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My mess was good – you could definitely taste the white
cheddar and there was a lot of seafood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The only thing that got me was that the texture was a little mushy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get it, I get it: the idea of a mess is to
cook the eggs with the add-ins and stir and stir so it because a giant pile of
goodness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But come parts of my portion was really,
really chopped up – to the point where I didn’t have to chew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was weird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should chew your seafood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the portion was really big and the flavor
was there so I was a happy camper. All entrees come with a side of potatoes
which were, in my opinion, the star of the brunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were spicy and crispy and well
seasoned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I especially liked how they have
Siracha sauce on the table for you to use instead of ketchup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The final bill for the four of us came to about $50 I think –
so, reasonable for a brunch spot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was it
the best in Richmond?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still think
Perly’s gets it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I’m biased and I
admit it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love their omelets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the biscuits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the breakfast potatoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the fact that they let you sit and catch
up with friends for hours and hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact,
Gray will stop by and chat you up too. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that, dear readers, is the best way to
start the day.</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-42336715509070839162012-09-13T10:16:00.000-04:002012-09-13T22:32:43.124-04:00Cafe Caturra<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnioxljQHT-phi_tves5UleA8jT7xI8hDzFrPp2SZn9-o8vTBOV6Cjuz7hrNBxrCsWYmz9V4Ov_XKH6zcXHXq-QW1Ai-5aRj3WiP3aD1Y73GpV7aTarWn8DJyivApQIZCwwWUiXJDHDQ/s1600/IMG_0738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnioxljQHT-phi_tves5UleA8jT7xI8hDzFrPp2SZn9-o8vTBOV6Cjuz7hrNBxrCsWYmz9V4Ov_XKH6zcXHXq-QW1Ai-5aRj3WiP3aD1Y73GpV7aTarWn8DJyivApQIZCwwWUiXJDHDQ/s320/IMG_0738.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.cafecaturra.com/food" target="_blank">Cafe Caturra</a> is a cute little cafe tucked away near the University of Richmond campus. I'd heard about it for the longest time and finally was able to venture over that-a-way and sample some of their offerings. I decided to try their Curry Chicken Salad and upon first bite, I was incredibly impressed. The balance of heat and sweet was perfect. It was absolutely delicious. So delicious I wanted the recipe and also so delicious I knew they wouldn't give it to me. I tried anyway...<br />
<br />
The only thing I wasn't so keen on was the texture. It was a little too mealy for me. I like to actually taste pieces of chicken in my chicken salad. It's a preference thing, so not a deal-breaker - just a reason to experiment at home and eat lots of Cafe Caturra chicken salad in the meantime! Whole Foods uses giant chunks of chicken in their salad which I love! There's is extremely heavy on the mayo, though, so that stops me from eating it. I'd definitely take this over WF because the flavor is just so perfect. <br />
<br />
The following is for my own benefit as much as yours, because I wanted to jot down some of the ingredients I could pick out: curry, sugar, golden raisins, turmeric (that's why it has a yellowish hue), salt, pepper, mayo, and I believe celery.<br />
<br />
<br />Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2450696194632783588.post-81720620037748035272012-09-09T21:45:00.000-04:002012-09-09T21:49:46.815-04:00"Pieces" of Pizza<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pizza Pull-Apart Bread - one of the greatest recipes to stumble upon during a procrastinatory hour.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLU09Tkg3XV-Jfwtc82x2Wb-LpEfy-YzblYjuRE4bjOdRKURIHt45oN2w-8lbMw8efsj1pXm_whebrmFCw5VFyjdr_J1XMFuJn98jrEFitk5Y3Tlpji3xB-uSxJV23e3otNWpBfVxjVA/s1600/IMG_0950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLU09Tkg3XV-Jfwtc82x2Wb-LpEfy-YzblYjuRE4bjOdRKURIHt45oN2w-8lbMw8efsj1pXm_whebrmFCw5VFyjdr_J1XMFuJn98jrEFitk5Y3Tlpji3xB-uSxJV23e3otNWpBfVxjVA/s320/IMG_0950.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What You Need:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSHZ8xv_8gcm6p9FRdnOMKKZaG5Vuzh0Q8JKf3WtqExouYZpdgsHOw-cprkiWpORvAAorW6Ein3vjDOIAPSvInbBxeKKhjfUNwJKfs1DHLUMPo_qBwY98cEwfS3ynIH0kAKcWMikaDA/s1600/IMG_0948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSHZ8xv_8gcm6p9FRdnOMKKZaG5Vuzh0Q8JKf3WtqExouYZpdgsHOw-cprkiWpORvAAorW6Ein3vjDOIAPSvInbBxeKKhjfUNwJKfs1DHLUMPo_qBwY98cEwfS3ynIH0kAKcWMikaDA/s320/IMG_0948.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trader Joe’s Sourdough Loaf (or any crusty loaf of bread)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trader Joe’s Garlic Loaf<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
16 oz<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>fresh
mozzarella, grated<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15 oz black olives, sliced<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8 oz sliced pepperoni<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 tsp oregano <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 tsp black pepper<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 Tbs butter of butter spread (I used Smart Balance)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uLCByEiv3B0FREq8ZDswmlyHtaStrt-Yl2n_SeSVIqdNnfI-AJgENoKb8xWn8d0BkUUngI5x65U8-sp8dHNOTWjbEK4JHbGqCOoyAzhqQh5XpnSA0plqCR7mGDg8oI_yoMqkQxZqOg/s1600/IMG_0946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uLCByEiv3B0FREq8ZDswmlyHtaStrt-Yl2n_SeSVIqdNnfI-AJgENoKb8xWn8d0BkUUngI5x65U8-sp8dHNOTWjbEK4JHbGqCOoyAzhqQh5XpnSA0plqCR7mGDg8oI_yoMqkQxZqOg/s320/IMG_0946.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The concept here is simple: shove pizza toppings into a loaf
of bread and bake it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This recipe couldn’t be easier and I swear, if you have
kids, they’re going to go nut-bar helping make dinner once you explain to them
the concept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All you do is cut the loaf of bread crosswise in a checkerboard
pattern: go all the way down through the loaf and stop just short of the
bottom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The idea is that after you put
all the toppings inside you pull the pieces out kind of like bread sticks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mix
the pepper and oregano into the cheese so it has some “pizza” pizzazz.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, after you’ve cut the bread and seasoned the mozz, take
your cheese and pack it down into the bread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then the pepperoni and olives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
goes without saying that you can swap out these toppings for anything you and
your family like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I personally am a big
pepperoni/olive fan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weston isn’t a fan
of mushrooms so we don’t usually pair those with our pizza flavorings. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bummer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s good about eating stroganoff, though, because it’s one of my
favorite meals :)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sprinkle on another layer of cheese and make sure the toppings are well
packed and the bread is filled to the brim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take your butter and brush the tops of the loaves with it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLht1SNUBlol5MsKKjX_67-Il7xkSxo4-ecKgeLHhlC_0xEHfbSkbyYLr5CUdcugEAxrsi0BEVnW_tGLvWJ3JjHU55J9JokqjW20Z9OnGC0okIWVscV1NL0T45Bq816sLjMIwezIFrHg/s1600/IMG_0952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLht1SNUBlol5MsKKjX_67-Il7xkSxo4-ecKgeLHhlC_0xEHfbSkbyYLr5CUdcugEAxrsi0BEVnW_tGLvWJ3JjHU55J9JokqjW20Z9OnGC0okIWVscV1NL0T45Bq816sLjMIwezIFrHg/s320/IMG_0952.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-Bake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wrap the loaves tightly in aluminum foil and bake in a 350
degree oven for about 20 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
can crank up the heat to 375 or even 400 for the last 5-10 minutes just to be
sure the bottoms are crisp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unwrap the loaves and dig in! This is perfect as a new and
improved dinner treat, a potluck, or Game Daaaaay! Close call on Saturday,
boys, but a win nonetheless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go Blue!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCuI2_YM7JREmZjD-ApoQZunUAKUJjC2Zb_91nKUO_u_ey4-Aw5jI8rW2OWpW9qis-O7jhlsfOSGI1NAVE9coGF8W79lP3up0f_IQRDr4RCgl9griR9JreCFQUWD2aWoqU95RHeV5Jtw/s1600/IMG_0953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCuI2_YM7JREmZjD-ApoQZunUAKUJjC2Zb_91nKUO_u_ey4-Aw5jI8rW2OWpW9qis-O7jhlsfOSGI1NAVE9coGF8W79lP3up0f_IQRDr4RCgl9griR9JreCFQUWD2aWoqU95RHeV5Jtw/s320/IMG_0953.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-Bake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Sheilahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09926034700078509895noreply@blogger.com0