My Way, No. 30

*If you’re new to my blog, you may want to read this for info on what ‘My Way’ posts are all about. 🙂 *

— After all that talk about bread this past week, I thought I would link you to an inexpensive DIY banneton: $2 Banneton for Better Bread Loaves | instructables.com.

Natural Dyes – All Natural Ways To Dye Fabric | diynatural.com.

— Adventures in Food: Ever since I posted the English muffins recipe, I have been thinking about making Benedict. I finally made it, but I decided to go with the Italian Scones recipe (posted here) as a base.

For the scones, I used my sprouted whole wheat pastry flour, subbed homemade non-fat Greek-style yogurt for butter, and dried the leftover marinated tomatoes from the Smothered Mediterranean Chicken. Roasted sweet mini peppers and tomato hollandaise. Cocktail from a berry-pom shrub and fizzy water. I used the arils for a garnish like the Tangerine-Pom cocktail posted here.

This was just supposed to be a small snack of ciabatta & olive oil, grapes, and a little vino. I decided to go for a bit more to make it a full meal. A little melted cheese (vs. oil) & red wine-thyme onion jam for the bread, some nuts, olives, Honey-Balsamic Turkish-Spiced Chickpeas, beet-pickled egg, and giardiniera. The egg and giardiniera were quickles, as I hadn’t really planned on having them. I subbed skim milk with just a little bit of olive oil for the whole-y (holy?) ciabatta. It was fab!
The Seafood Lasagna recipe I posted turned into 2 dishes:

Filling was salmon, crab, arugula (I had some to use up), homemade non-fat ricotta, homemade non-fat Greek-style yogurt, parm, garlic, onion, s&p. I also added a little beaten egg to the lasagna roll filling. Just a little bit of parm and the creaminess of the yogurt added a richness to the ricotta. The rolls are great for the freezer to pop out for a quick meal. I made the ravioli with my milled hard red wheat berries, vital wheat gluten, egg, egg yolk, and water. White sauce with skim milk, olive oil roux, white wine, parm, and roasted garlic. Finished with pistachios. I whipped up some fresh butter in the food processor (my indulgence) for the bread. It takes 5-10 minutes or so, depending on your processor. I was inspired by the Rosemary Lemonade here for the strawberry-basil lemonade. Sweetened with the Berhi date syrup and stevia.

I had some toasted quinoa & kept craving carrots, so I made this Grilled Carrot & Walnut Salad with Carrot Top Pesto (a few times, once with rice) — yums!:

For a special occasion, I told you that I made the ciabatta, but I also finally made this Turkish-Inspired Pistachio & Cardamom Cake with Pomegranate Cream Filling (posted way back when):


But…it’s a mini version. This was actually only a 1/5 of the recipe, and guess what it was baked in? A parchment-lined soup tin! I made this a couple of weeks ago, sliced it, wrapped it well, and stuck it in the freezer. So, all that was left was the icing. I love these rustic cakes, let me tell ya. During the pastry portion of culinary school (way, way back in the day), cake decorating, pulling sugar, etc., was clearly not my thing. I stuck to cakes from a box, lol. I got up the nerve to try this cake, though, and I’m so glad I did! I sliced a piece from the top before freezing, and it was so moist. I made substitutions of homemade non-fat Greek-style yogurt for butter, and a mixture of coconut sugar and the Berhi date syrup for demerara. As I can’t have too much cream or butter, I went with a snow peak frosting: whipped egg whites, Mexican vanilla, honey, and stevia. This was lovely, and it made me confront my cake fears, haha! This is a wheat-free cake, so please check it out if you have an intolerance.

— As there was a weather prediction of possible 50’s-60’s temps  (early morning) this week, I went ahead and made my ruana. The weather was back to the 90’s before you knew it, though. So super simple, so I am probably going to make another one.The ruana featured in that post has several different styles, including a belted option. I wore mine with a brooch, but here’s a DIY belt & brooch combo (if the color is too summery for you, you could easily go with your current fall fave): Easy summer DIY fashion projects – A chic braided and wide corset belt | diy-enthusiasts.com.

Another use for stencils! Stenciled Tote Bag | Nomadic Decorator.

— At one point (before I decided on a decor overhaul), I had a Frida Kahlo picture in my work office. I always feel drawn to her work for some reason. There’s just something in it that grabs hold of me. I spotted this wonderful piece on her, so I thought I would share it: Style Icon – Frida Kahlo | Design Sponge.

Now I have another wine cork project to work on: DIY Garden Decoration Ideas | Interior Design Ideas.

— 10 rules of Etiquette Everyone Should Know (and Follow!) | wisebread.com.

— Tasty Treats:
Confessions of a Cardamom Addict: Guinness onion soup with bleu cheese croutons.

Oh! I got such a craving when I saw this: Mongolian Beef Recipe | userealbutter.com.

DIY Cider Vinegar | whipandclick.com.

I was going to post this a while back, but forgot. I met a very nice gentleman from Peru who told me these cookies were his specialty. The cookies, and a broccoli-tomato soup that he strongly believes has kept his children from ever going to the hospital (lo their 20-some years). He didn’t give me the magic soup recipe, but he told me where to find the luscious dulce de leche delights: HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE ALFAJORES | recipegirl.com.

Here’s a way to keep summer alive: Fancy or Sandy Fruit Salad, Anyone? | gayahousewives.

Stewed Fruit Recipe – Eatwell 101.

Chinese Scallion Pancake—Simplified Version | chinasichuanfood.com.

5 Healthy Soul Food Options | mademan.com.

Soul Food – American Diabetes Association.

Matcha Sushi Balls | Thirsty for Tea.

Fig Bourbon Old-Fashioned | katieatthekitchendoor.com.

‘Til next time!

My Way, No. 29

*If you’re new to my blog, you may want to read this for info on what ‘My Way’ posts are all about. 🙂 *

— After writing about Chico’s wrinkle-resistant travel-knit fabric last My Way post, I decided to check out their website. They have a 40% off sale (entire purchase) going on right now. I don’t know how long it will last, though (hopefully, at least through tomorrow if you get a chance to read this by then!). If you are a commuter or globe-trotter, the Travelers collection can be a nice addition to your wardrobe. It’s wonderful to arrive at your destination without looking like you slept in your clothes, lol! When I managed the non-profit women’s business clothing boutique (I wrote about it here), Chico’s sister store, Soma, held a bra drive for us. There must have been 500 good condition, quality bras donated. You don’t know what gifts like that mean to those in need! Or, maybe you do. Ah…I get emotional just thinking about it!

— Adventures in Food: 2-for-1 tomato-based soups! I made a slow-cooker tomato soup base for the Cherokee Hominy and Tomato Soup (from the last My Way Post) and a Lasagna Soup (I originally saw on the Fave Healthy Recipes site).

I took the Lasagna Soup post’s advice and added some veggies: mushrooms, squash, and kale. I used quinoa macaroni (really a quinoa/corn blend). I LOVE whole wheat pasta, but I will say (again) that I really cannot tell the difference. I lighted up the cheese, but just a little hit of parm makes this so good. Simple, good eats.

Herb-y cooking with spaghetti squash. Grilled Spag Squash with Tomato-Mushroom Sauce, & I made a non-fat yogurt-based sauce adapted from the Herbs’ post Mediterranean Smothered Chicken:

The chicken recipe called for the veggies to go into the sauce while cooking, but I just added them after plating. I marinated the tomatoes in a light vinaigrette. I think the sauce would be fab (with the cream or with yogurt) with a number of proteins or even veggies.

The tomato sauce prep had the same ingredients as these roasted tomatoes, but I prepared it on the stove top (and added mushrooms). Again, I know the look of the withered tomatoes isn’t that great (I added a little fresh for garnish), but this was delish! You know flour pasta is my fave, but this was so satisfying. I could eat this every day. The grilling also adds a nice depth of flavor.

I need to do another To Market to Market… post soon! I spotted berhi dates, durum wheat, and pickled mango powder at Jasmine Market here in Tucson. What else should we pickle and powder…hmmm? One of the store staff told me there are like 1000 types of dates (don’t know if that’s an exaggeration???) and some knowledgable folks can point out each variety. When the dates got nice and ripe, I puréed most of them to use as a sweetener. But, they were SO GOOD just by themselves. Nature’s candy. I used the dates to sweeten a greek yogurt brûlée (along with brown coconut palm sugar). (Please forgive the really bad pic in the dark, but I figure you know what brûlée looks like 😉 .)

I wanted creme brûlée, but I thought my body would like the homemade non-fat Greek-style yogurt better. I figured someone must have a yogurt recipe, but I didn’t feel like looking one up. I just used my old creme recipe with a yogurt substitution. Flavoring was Mexican vanilla extract (I like the earthiness of it) and a touch of rum. This was delightful and satisfied my craving. Pure Mexican vanilla can sometimes be difficult to find, but mine came from Penzeys Spices. You can get a huge bottle, too (16 fl. oz.), if you like.

Finally, if you are a bread lover, try this Caramelized Onion and Olive Focaccia recipe I posted a while back:

I used capers in place of olives this time. I caramelized my onions with a little balsamic, red wine, and thyme. I threw some red peppers flakes on the dough afterwards.. I did not use as much oil as the recipe called for, but I was still really, really pleased with the results. I only used a 1/2 teaspoon in the dough, with non-fat yogurt making up the difference. And, I just gave it a few Misto’s of oil to finish. Now, don’t start frowning at me! I will try it with all of the oil some day. Many times, I try to cut calories of liquid fats where I can (like I said I do with vinaigrettes and pestos). It’s just a personal preference. If I’m going to consume the cals, I would rather chew them (like nuts or avocados, say). My mind (not just my tummy) seems more satisfied this way, lol. Though, I do love to dunk bread in a good bit of olive oil every now and then! I guess the liquid vs. solid applies to other areas of food in my life as well. Anyway…this bread was so luscious and luxurious (even without the full amount of oil). I would be hard pressed to choose between it and a candy bar. I would eventually choose the candy bar, of course, but it would be a hard decision 🙂 . Haha

— Great article on the Duchess of Cambridge’s visit to a children’s mental health organization. The article also notes her fashion choices. My former co-worker (a fashionista, for sure) told me she loves to use the Duchess’ style as inspiration ‘pins.’ I think many of my friends, as Americans, are fascinated with royalty. I cannot say that I’ve been unaffected. Princess Diana was the only person who ever persuaded me (through admiration) to willingly cut my hair short.

— Still getting 98 degree days here in Tucson, but here’s a cute, easy DIY if you’re in a cooler part of the country (or world). Choose whatever fabric you like: DIY Ruana – anna evers – DIY Fashion blog.

DIY Tutorial 10: Obi Belt From an Old Skirt | fashion.onblog.at.

— Detergents, Stain Removers, Delicates, and more: 10 Natural Laundry DIYs | HelloNatural.co.

Fall is a great arts & crafts time for kids. Colored popcorn is more readily available this time of year, and kids can use it to replace more expensive craft items…then eat whatever’s leftover!

Also, good info for kids here: School Lunch Ideas Using Cultured & Fermented Foods | culturesforhealth.com.

— OMGoodness, how much do I love this? Cool Bird’s Nest Bed | 1 Design Per Day.

— Delish Treats for the Day:

I made a sourdough sprouted durum wheat bread based on this recipe, but I also wanted to share this stencil technique with you from the same blog: Sourdough Rye with Walnuts | hungryshots.com.
She fashioned the stencil herself, and you can surely do the same (if you’re the crafty type). I only had an Eiffel stencil when I decided to do this, and I didn’t want to purchase another one. I am not good at creating such things from scratch…so, I went with that. It turned out OK, so I will be investing in a few more stencils in the future. Fab for folks lacking that type of artistic talent! Here’s a pic (I didn’t make any slashes on the bread because I didn’t know how the image would turn out. Next time.):

Lamb, Smoked Aubergine, Yoghurt, and Onions | Great British Chefs.

Baked Pecan Coconut Crusted Fish Recipe | recipelover.com.au.

I told you how I adore the Moosewood. It always brings back good memories for me. Make sure you check out some of their awesome cookbooks! I think my food co-op should do a cookbook. They also put out some fab eats. Mixed Vegetable Curry | moosewoodcooks.com.

Sprinkles – Allergy Free Alaska.

Shortcut Salted Kouign Amann | the pig & quill.

This is so cute! Must see! Gourmet Restyle : Bubble Fruit | lublyou.com.

Juniper Syrup – The Baked Apple.

Whiskey Cream Sauce | sweetsoursavory.com.

Italian Scones Recipe | Taste.com.au.

Tangerine Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail | eatingwell101.com.

Have a great evening, and I’ll see you next time!

Recipes: Valentine’s Day Desserts

Gourmet Chocolate Dipped Strawberries | hoosierhomemade.com.

I’m back with sweet treats for Valentine’s Day! I turned my attention to chocolate-covered strawberries as I do every year about this time. This comes from fond memories of a chocolate shop in Austin, TX that sells giganormous CCS for Valentine’s. They sell a lot around Mother’s Day, as well. You can purchase a dozen in an egg carton, if you like. I really like the idea of putting them in a mug or vase, too, as is pictured on this site:

Chocolate Covered Strawberries | Pinterest | Zena.

This is a very popular idea, and all you need is floral foam (to put your skewers in) and a little greenery (looks like they used kale in this pic). You can be as simple or as fancy as you like. This particular site also has several other ideas pictured, so make sure to take a look. If you use good quality dark chocolate, this can be a relatively healthier type of treat (unless you eat several dozen, which I always want to do, lol. I try to remember portion control!). I don’t care for microwaving too much, but melting chocolate in it is super quick in a pinch. If you don’t feel like pulling out your double boiler, micro is the way to go. It also eliminates water possibly getting into your chocolate and making it seize up. Either way, I think chocolate-covered strawberries are one of the easiest and most elegant things you can make for your Valentine.

Here are a few other desserts to tempt you:

White Chocolate Semifreddo with Pistachios and Raspberries

Strawberries and Champagne (must see — may not be what you think! très chic.)

Gemma’s Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake (video) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLjHDpj_bmQ

Slice and Bake Valentine’s Biscuits (Cookies)

Blood Orange Sorbet

How to Make Heart Cupcakes

Waffle Cone Fortune Cookies

Whole Wheat Chocolate Wine Cake with Caramelized Figs

Valentine’s Recipes with CHOCOLATE!

Mini Victoria Sandwiches

Chocolate Cream Pie

Strawberry-Almond Cream Tart

Hippie Chocolate Bourbon Balls

Raspberry Coconut Scones

Heart-Shaped Raspberry S’More Macarons

Instant Strawberry Gateau

Raspberry, Dark Chocolate, Oat, & Coconut Muffins

Double Chocolate Layer Cake

Red Velvet Crepes

The food blogs on my blogroll also have many recipes that would be fab for the occasion. I only have time to post so many, so please check out their sites! A couple of them are primarily dessert focused.

Happy Valentine’s Day, & I’ll see you next week!

My Way, No. 12

*If you’re new to my blog, you may want to read this for info on what ‘My Way’ posts are all about. 🙂 *

— I was extremely busy this past week and could not find the time to blog. So, I will try to let you know some of the things I’ve been up to. But, before we get into all of that, I wanted to express my deepest appreciation to the late Martin Luther King, Jr. and his family. I, like so many others, would have never had the opportunities that have come my way without them. I believe MLK’s legacy has been felt across all of the nations. So, today, we honor that legacy. It encourages one to stand up for what one believes in. Common men and women have sometimes had as great an impact on society as royalty and world leaders (if not greater, in some instances, perhaps).

— From the Arizona Jewish Post, I thought this was a very thoughtful MLK, Jr. Day article.

— You know I love food and often write up all sorts of food-related tidbits on this blog. On this MLK, Jr. Day, I thought it would be cool to showcase a few chefs and recipes from the US and Britain (as you know, I adore British culture & food). Speaking of Britain, have you ever seen the television show Chef? I do not recall when it ran because many times we (the US) receive British programming much later than the original air dates. Perhaps it was from the 90’s…it was such a fab and funny show. I’m sure it’s in some sort of digital format, so check it out if you get the chance.

Avocado Tacos & Brown Butter Roasted Tomato Pasta by Latrice Fowler, African-American Chefs Shine in Atlanta, Black America Cooks, The Top Black Chefs Around the World, 3 Black Vegan Chefs You Should Know. From Britain: Mustard, Bacon, and Caramelised Onion Scones & Pea, Courgette, and Parmesan Rosti w/ Tangy Tomato Dressing by Ainsley Harriot, Spicy Curry Carrot Chutney by Jo Wesley and Avril Rogers, Pancetta Wrapped Scallops w/ Quince and Pear by Patrick Williams, Chai-Spiced Ginger and Date Tea Loaf by Kimberley Wilson, Pumpkin and Sunflower Seeds Savoury Biscuits by Enwezor, Lamb, Yam, and Butternut Squash Soup by Lenny Henry, Nice and Spicy Thai Chicken Salad (Larb Gai) & Vegetarian Nut Roast Pie w/ Cranberries by Lorraine Pascale, Citrus and Pomegranate Salad w/ Chili Honey Dressing & Lime and Cranberry Bread and Butter Pudding by Levi Roots.

— Also from Britain: Is the Media Industry Sufficiently Diverse?

— Have you ever been under a time crunch and forced to go to places and do things you would rather not? That’s how last week was for me. Sometimes, my whereabouts/locations can make things difficult. I managed to make the Minimalist Entryway Organizer I wrote about. Instead of bungee cords and a wood frame, I went for a solid wood plaque and elastic. I attached the elastic with a staple gun and drilled a hole in the back for hanging. Such a practical idea for your keys, glasses, etc.:

Also, I’m making a shelf, so I stained a cedar board (after power sanding) with a mixture of coffee and black tea (as I wrote about in my post on The Many Uses of Food Powders). I used soybean oil for finishing, but I’m sure you could use any fixed drying oil (like linseed, hemp, walnut, or sunflower). Super easy and inexpensive. The lighting wasn’t great, so I do not think the pic (before and after) does it justice. It’s a rich caramel color — turned out beautifully:

— I had to pick up a few items for my mom and snapped a couple of cute DIY craft pics:

These DIY’s were made by the store staff. The ‘button letter’ would be totally fun in a child’s room. Or, if you have a more eclectic decor, you could probably make it work in any setting (possibly changing up the color scheme). First initials for couples would be a neat idea.

— What have I been eating this past week? Well, I made a few more of the Detox Drinks with a repeat of the Grapefruit-Cado. I forgot to mention that anytime the recipes call for juice, I use whole fruit. It was such a busy week that I didn’t get a chance to make granola bars. Luckily, I found some organic store-bought ones that were wickedly reduced in price. SQUEAL DEAL! They saved me! I always like to carry some sort of snack bar with me when I go out (so I don’t grab at the nearest candy protein bar in a vending machine, haha). And, I had a couple for snacks in place of my (of late) usual nuts, figs, oatmeal & honey, or za’atar roasted chickpeas. I’ve found the chickpeas curb my cravings for sweets (as you know, I have a sweet tooth). I did have time to whip up a quick cream of roasted garlic and white asparagus soup (with olive oil roux & skim milk, finished with a little extra-virgin and chiles):

And, the Sicilian Roasted Potatoes I made for Christmas have made an appearance 4 or 5 times now. Perhaps I will take a pic soon. I’ve started using a mix of baby Yukons and sweet potatoes. Really quite delicious. As I had a lot of running around to do, I made a batch of egg sandwich fillers. I reheat them in the oven or on the stove, but I suppose you could use the micro (not too long, they might get rubbery). I just used leftover veggies and cooked them in oval rings to fit my homemade bagels. I start them on the stove top and then give them a hit under the broiler:

1) Spinach, Red Bell, White Asparagus, Garlic 2) Kale, Black Olive, Red Onion 3) Broccoli, Feta, Chile (just a little bit of cheese, and my body seemed to handle it OK) 4) Marinated & Grilled Artichokes, Capers, Tomatoes.
Other than that, I began to have a few heavier meals starting with a yummy hamburger (on a bagel, of course 😉 ) and a side of healthy Brussels and smashed baby Yukons bubble and squeak.

— I love to collect tea tins, so I was excited when my fave step-uncle brought me back this Burapa Bird’s Nest Beverage from his trip to Malaysia:

— I was inspired by this Pitaya Breakfast Bowl to purchase dragon fruit for the first time. Wonderful! I consumed some raw and threw the rest in the freezer for smoothies:

— Remember the DIY Silk Scarf Kaftan I posted? Well, here’s a DIY Kimono Cape along the same lines. While running errands for my mom, I saw someone with a gorgeous kimono fabric. You can make this piece with just a couple of scarves, needle & thread, though. Also, make sure to check out the link from this blog post on how to dye shoes.

— From organization to DIY suds: 8 Laundry Room Hacks, Tips, and Ideas.

Take care! See you next time!

Edible Holiday Gifts

Snowy owl Christmas tree biscuits | BBC Good Food.

Biscuits means ‘cookies’ (or crackers) if you’re in America, haha. It took me the longest time to figure that out. A 2-for-1 edible ornament. Adorable! *Sidenote: In case you saw my ‘Test Post,’ I figured out the problem. This post was too long, as I suspected. I removed a few unneeded spaces.*

I’ve been thinking about edible Holiday gifts for a bit, so I thought I would share a few I’ve come across. As I mentioned in my post about that decadent Cheesecake Martini, food can be a fab gift option for a variety of reasons. I know there are a ton of ideas out there, but I tend to try to find recipes that are fairly simple or have few ingredients. Elaborate cakes and cookies are not really my gifting (literally), but I can handle quick breads, log/freezer cookies, and fudge pretty well. I have a collection of ‘soup cans’ that I will be using to bake a few yeast breads and/or quick breads in. My food processor is a blessing these days and really speeds up mixing and kneading time. I rarely knead anything by hand unless it’s a very small quantity. I would like to finally get over my aversion to fruitcake, so perhaps I will scout a decent recipe soon. My memories are still so scarred and haunted with neon-colored glacéed fruit-filled “cake” resembling a brick (in taste and texture, lol).

If I had time, I would list even more ideas. I am running a little late with my Christmas preparations, though. So, I need to get a move on! As always, please check out some of the wonderful recipes from food blogs on my blogroll for more inspiration. I also have a category for ‘Recipes, Food, and Drink’ on my blog menu, so you might glance at that or my ‘My Way’ posts, as well. I think most of these recipes could translate to just about any holiday or celebratory occasion.

Homemade Extracts
Homemade Chili Oil
Coconut Bauble Truffles
Chocolate-Peanut Butter Quinoa Crispies Treats
87 Calorie Brownies
Just Beet It 5-Ingredient Red Velvet Fudge
Homemade Chocolate
Soft Pretzels
Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Muffins with Rosemary
Cake Batter Popcorn
Raw Chocolate Pomegranate Bark
Pumpkin Cheesecake Snickerdoodles
Spicy Blue Cheese Shortbread Cookies
Gemma’s Homemade Chocolate Fudge (watch the vid: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IB9j8e8KWJo) I have made fudge before, but I have never thought to cut it into anything but squares. Cute!
Whole Wheat Pumpkin Chocolate Chunk Bread
Eggnog Truffles
Vegan Seeded Banana Bread w/ Dried Figs and Turkish Apricots
Salted Caramel Bars
Homemade Orange Liqueur
Mini Cream Scones (a jar of homemade jam and/or cream would be a nice addition!
10 Mason Jar Gift Ideas (several edible gifts, plus a few extras)

I hope you are having a marvelous Holiday season, and I wish you and yours the best!

Kathy

Traditional Scottish Recipes

Traditional Scottish Recipes – Scottish Culture.

I know I should, but I have never been one to get too involved in political matters. Waiting for the results of the Scottish Referendum for Independence, though, was more interesting to me than anything of the sort since…well, in a very long time. The majority has ‘spoken’ and has chosen to remain a part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. So, I celebrate with those who are happy for this outcome and mourn with those who wish things had turned out differently.

I haven’t had a great deal of Scottish food in my lifetime, so I thought I would post a link with some traditional recipes. Dishes such as bannocks, haggis, drop scones, herring in oatmeal, roastit bubbly-jock, Scotch collop, tablet, tweed kettle, and whisky toddy are included. Take a look and see what you think!