Now that it’s winter, mostly all our activities are indoors and that includes the hallowed game night. This is usually a Saturday night when people invite friends and family over for spirited rounds of Scrabble or Pictionary. Sometimes there are even five or six tables set up for cards. It’s also a night to make fun treats and enjoy some time knoshing.
Pizza is usually the best dish to serve. Its easy to make and there are a variety of topping to load on it. You can make an all meat one or a healthy veggie one. Dough can be hand made or purchased and either big or individual pizzas can be served. Another fun munchie is a platter of quesadillas. These are easy to create and assemble and people can have fun building their own, using peppers tomatoes , pepper jack cheese along with chicken or beef. A really simple dish is chili. It’s can be made to suit meat lovers or vegans. It can be served over simple rice or polenta or spooned over broken up cornbread slices.
Of course game night is nothing without snacks,. A healthy choice would be small platters of veggies with a simple yogurt dip. You can make several small bowls of the last and then arrange broccoli florets, baby carrots, pepper strips and tomato slices around the dip bowls. Add some tortillas for crunch as well. Popcorn won’t go amiss either and you can set up small deep bowls of different flavors ranging from a simple butter to parmesan cheese or chili. You may also want to add the regular party classics of pretzel sticks and potato chips.
Game night is fun but it does build up an appetite. . Satisfy your guests with fun and filling munchies that’ll give them energy for the next round. There’s nothing like playing Scrabble or Pictionary on a full stomach!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Turn Over For Turn Overs!
There's nothing like an apple turnover. This is the ultimate comfort food dessert, a homey blend of apple, cinnamon and crust. It's less filling than pie but heartier than a crisp. You can eat it plain or dress it down. It's a dessert than can go fancy or simple depending on your tastes at the moment.
Apple turnovers probably came about as an offshoot of Cornish pasties. For centuries the cooks in Britain's' southwestern shire of Cornwall were already putting varieties of meats into dough and baking them. It seems natural that apples or any fruit could be made as such as well. the earliest recipe for them goes back to 1874 in Cassell's Dictionary of Cookery with Numerous Illustrations in London. There have been several other recipes dating from that era and it seems it was a popular dessert of the time.Turnovers are still enjoyed today with a bit more whistles and bells than their earlier counterparts. Cinnamon is added for more flavor as are chopped walnuts and raisins. Sometimes the hot turnover is drizzled with caramel and then topped off with huge dollop of whipped cream.
Are they easy to make? Yes, it's just a simple apple filling put into a folded puff pastry or pate brisee dough and baked for 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It's best to use granny Smith apples because any other may become mushy. As for extras , that's up to you. Chopped walnuts are always good. as well as a good dose of cinnamon,and vanilla. Some recipes call for applesauce for a more pie like filling, Again that's up to you. Crimp the edges as you would do with ravioli or pie and then bake. Skip the lame white icing that commercial bakeries put on their turnovers. This takes away from the buttery dough and the fruity goodness inside.
Apple turnovers are a e treat to bake and eat. They are the ultimate comfort food after a hearty winter stew or roast.They're always a favorite whether plain or with a cream and caramel.
Enjoy them during these chilly winter nights.
Apple turnovers probably came about as an offshoot of Cornish pasties. For centuries the cooks in Britain's' southwestern shire of Cornwall were already putting varieties of meats into dough and baking them. It seems natural that apples or any fruit could be made as such as well. the earliest recipe for them goes back to 1874 in Cassell's Dictionary of Cookery with Numerous Illustrations in London. There have been several other recipes dating from that era and it seems it was a popular dessert of the time.Turnovers are still enjoyed today with a bit more whistles and bells than their earlier counterparts. Cinnamon is added for more flavor as are chopped walnuts and raisins. Sometimes the hot turnover is drizzled with caramel and then topped off with huge dollop of whipped cream.
Are they easy to make? Yes, it's just a simple apple filling put into a folded puff pastry or pate brisee dough and baked for 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It's best to use granny Smith apples because any other may become mushy. As for extras , that's up to you. Chopped walnuts are always good. as well as a good dose of cinnamon,and vanilla. Some recipes call for applesauce for a more pie like filling, Again that's up to you. Crimp the edges as you would do with ravioli or pie and then bake. Skip the lame white icing that commercial bakeries put on their turnovers. This takes away from the buttery dough and the fruity goodness inside.
Apple turnovers are a e treat to bake and eat. They are the ultimate comfort food after a hearty winter stew or roast.They're always a favorite whether plain or with a cream and caramel.
Enjoy them during these chilly winter nights.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Winter Picnic Anyone?
February isn’t associated with picnics. Especially if you live in the colder climes. Yet it does seem perfect when you’re out there skiing or skating. You can bring a hearty and even hot meal with you while you’re hiking , snowboarding or jus enjoying your local park. There’s also plenty of food to choose from too.
What’s the best thing to bring? A couple of thermoses, one with a hot soup the other with a hot drink. Personally I like minestrone. it’s hearty yet surprisingly light. I love the fact that it; chock full of veggies and can be made with a bee f o r o veggie broth. Another good one is a fish or clam chowder. Again you get rich chunks of meat. Since these are flavorful. I would recommend just having a plain buttered roll. If you’ re bringing tomato soup, go with a hearty Vermont cheddar and tomato sandwich or a thickly sliced ham on slices of country white bread.
I always think tea is the best to have with a sandwich. A richly flavored aromatic tea is good such as one with orange or hibiscus. it’s sweet and flavorful a nd goes with a savory lunch. If you just have a plain meat like roast beef o ro ham sandwich then go with coffee. A hearty drink deserves a hearty drink. As for dessert. , oranges or cookies aren’t bad. I’d I=opt for fruit because it is tastier and better for (plus chock full of vitamins which you need in this weather.)
A cold weather picnic, it’s sound impossible but its; really doable. Just have hearty sandwiches and soups along with a good strong tea. Or coffee. Finish with fruit for dessert. Then head off to whatever you’re going to do despite th e temps.
What’s the best thing to bring? A couple of thermoses, one with a hot soup the other with a hot drink. Personally I like minestrone. it’s hearty yet surprisingly light. I love the fact that it; chock full of veggies and can be made with a bee f o r o veggie broth. Another good one is a fish or clam chowder. Again you get rich chunks of meat. Since these are flavorful. I would recommend just having a plain buttered roll. If you’ re bringing tomato soup, go with a hearty Vermont cheddar and tomato sandwich or a thickly sliced ham on slices of country white bread.
I always think tea is the best to have with a sandwich. A richly flavored aromatic tea is good such as one with orange or hibiscus. it’s sweet and flavorful a nd goes with a savory lunch. If you just have a plain meat like roast beef o ro ham sandwich then go with coffee. A hearty drink deserves a hearty drink. As for dessert. , oranges or cookies aren’t bad. I’d I=opt for fruit because it is tastier and better for (plus chock full of vitamins which you need in this weather.)
A cold weather picnic, it’s sound impossible but its; really doable. Just have hearty sandwiches and soups along with a good strong tea. Or coffee. Finish with fruit for dessert. Then head off to whatever you’re going to do despite th e temps.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Foodie Down ..... Again
Sorry about the absence of yesterday's column. yet again thsi foodie was sick - in the grips of a particularly violent stomach virus.(imagine 24 hours of straight agony and you' ve got my Saturday)
Anyway tomorrow will be a new month and new and fun subjects.
Liz
Anyway tomorrow will be a new month and new and fun subjects.
Liz
Friday, January 29, 2010
A Thermos Full of Goodness
Just because it’s winter , doesn’t mean you should not take advantage of the out doors. There are sunny, crisp days that are perfect for skiing, skating and even just walking on the beach. What makes these activities bearable is having a thermos by your side. There’s nothing like a hot cup of coffee or tea that keeps your blood warm during a frigid day out.
What goes well in a thermos? A couple of cups of coffee. If you plan on doing a lot start with the caffeinated kind and some milk. If you want to add some brandy for kick do so but not enough that it’ll impair you. This is good for warming your veins and you’ll be ready for anything. Also a hot coffee is a good companion to any kind of sandwich. Hot tea is also good . Pick something milk like Earl Grey or Lady Grey add some lemon or even a squeeze of orange and some sugar. Hot tea is a good companion during a long walk . Again, like coffee. it’s also good with a sandwich and even better with granola bars or organic cookies.
Many people like hot cocoa in their thermos. This is a fine idea however it does make one thirsty. I think the scratch kind is better than the commercial ones. These can be too sweet , like soda and can leave you wanting some water afterwards. Make your own , using hot milk, Droste powdered chocolate and a small amount of sugar You can also make a variation of a mocha by adding coffee to the mix. This cuts down on the sweetness even more and makes for a bracing drink.
If you’re planning on cold weather activities, then bring a thermos with you. There’s nothing like breaking for a hot coffee , tea or hot cocoa. they’re not only warming but restorative. . You’ll feel like staying out no matter how low the temps go!
What goes well in a thermos? A couple of cups of coffee. If you plan on doing a lot start with the caffeinated kind and some milk. If you want to add some brandy for kick do so but not enough that it’ll impair you. This is good for warming your veins and you’ll be ready for anything. Also a hot coffee is a good companion to any kind of sandwich. Hot tea is also good . Pick something milk like Earl Grey or Lady Grey add some lemon or even a squeeze of orange and some sugar. Hot tea is a good companion during a long walk . Again, like coffee. it’s also good with a sandwich and even better with granola bars or organic cookies.
Many people like hot cocoa in their thermos. This is a fine idea however it does make one thirsty. I think the scratch kind is better than the commercial ones. These can be too sweet , like soda and can leave you wanting some water afterwards. Make your own , using hot milk, Droste powdered chocolate and a small amount of sugar You can also make a variation of a mocha by adding coffee to the mix. This cuts down on the sweetness even more and makes for a bracing drink.
If you’re planning on cold weather activities, then bring a thermos with you. There’s nothing like breaking for a hot coffee , tea or hot cocoa. they’re not only warming but restorative. . You’ll feel like staying out no matter how low the temps go!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Dining and Downward Dogs.
Can foodies enjoy yoga and yoga students enjoy food? In some classes yes. Yesterday’s New York Times Dining section has an interesting article about incorporating the two. Dinner courses are being brought in by local restaurant owners and enjoyed after a sweaty hour of stretching and getting in touch with one’s inner bliss is it a good idea? Yes, if it replenishes a depleted body and serves for a better appreciation for the food.
The article written by Dining regular Julia Moskin tells of ashrams and local NY city yoga classes that serve food. It’s healthy vegan food, adhering to the Ahimsa belief of not harm others including animals. Some yoga instructors even bring a variety of dishes, usually tempeh mixed with vegetables and spices. Butters, fats and processed food is never served . Some yoga instructors do allow meat dishes to be brought and eaten. They follow the idea that what ever it takes to bring the yoga students to their nirvana , then do it, even if it involves beef or chicken.
In a way it is a good idea. I’m sure people build up an appetite after an hour of any physical activity. A multi dish buffet satisfies that. Another facet if it is that communal eating brings the students closer together and they can bond more. Also the instructors are introducing them to healthier foods and the Indian ayurveda way of eating and keeping th e body in balance . The yogis find out what doshis or dominance their students possess. There are vata - wind or air, pitta bile or kapha phlegm. Foods are invested with properties such as warming and cooling, heavy or light wet or dry.
Should yoga and food combine? Yes, if it means introducing the student and the body to healthier eating. It also shows more aspects of the practice and maybe enables students to have a better understanding of yoga. Not just stretching helps with enlightenment but eating does too.
The article written by Dining regular Julia Moskin tells of ashrams and local NY city yoga classes that serve food. It’s healthy vegan food, adhering to the Ahimsa belief of not harm others including animals. Some yoga instructors even bring a variety of dishes, usually tempeh mixed with vegetables and spices. Butters, fats and processed food is never served . Some yoga instructors do allow meat dishes to be brought and eaten. They follow the idea that what ever it takes to bring the yoga students to their nirvana , then do it, even if it involves beef or chicken.
In a way it is a good idea. I’m sure people build up an appetite after an hour of any physical activity. A multi dish buffet satisfies that. Another facet if it is that communal eating brings the students closer together and they can bond more. Also the instructors are introducing them to healthier foods and the Indian ayurveda way of eating and keeping th e body in balance . The yogis find out what doshis or dominance their students possess. There are vata - wind or air, pitta bile or kapha phlegm. Foods are invested with properties such as warming and cooling, heavy or light wet or dry.
Should yoga and food combine? Yes, if it means introducing the student and the body to healthier eating. It also shows more aspects of the practice and maybe enables students to have a better understanding of yoga. Not just stretching helps with enlightenment but eating does too.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Cooking After A Busy Day
The last thing you want to do after a busy day is cook. The problem is what to eat? Do you go for a quick but fattening take out? Eat dinner at yet another restaurant or food court? Whip pout the microwave dinners? Or just eat another bowl of cereal and call it a day?
You can create easy and filling meals even when you’re too pooped to care what you eat. The key is to shop when you have the time and anticipate dinner hours like this. You can also shop on the way home to ensure you get fresh ingredients as well. I like to stock up on cans of deviled ham and chicken. Mix these with mayo, some tarragon or celery seeds and I have a creamy and tasty filling for sandwiches or a spread for crackers. Another must have is a can of tuna, whether plain or flavored. I usually have a tin of the Bumblebee lemon pepper flavored one. I love this in a simple salad of Romaine lettuce, grape tomatoes and assorted other veggies. I just put a simple vinaigrette on I,t serve it with crackers and it’s a filling yet light dinner. There’s also very little clean up too,
Of course there is the lure of a hot meal , especially after a hard or trying day. To me there’s nothing like a hot open faced roast beef or turkey sandwich. Just buy some fresh sliced meat at your deli counter, along with a jar of gravy and Kaiser rolls. Pour the heated gravy over the open faced sandwich and - voila- a hot comfort food. You can whip up some instant mashed potatoes if your prefer that with your meat and gravy. Another good idea is Knorr‘s Soup mixes. Their cream of leek and cream of spinach is a nice spin on soup and tastes like homemade. You can also cook up their spring vegetable a thin kind of soup, and load it up with orzo or pastina. This creates a flavorful and filling dish in no time. It’s better than a plate of pasta and just as satisfying.
Don’t despair after a busy day. There are plenty of easy , hot or cold filling dinners to make and create. They require very little time and very little effort. All you have to do is just kick back and savor them.
You can create easy and filling meals even when you’re too pooped to care what you eat. The key is to shop when you have the time and anticipate dinner hours like this. You can also shop on the way home to ensure you get fresh ingredients as well. I like to stock up on cans of deviled ham and chicken. Mix these with mayo, some tarragon or celery seeds and I have a creamy and tasty filling for sandwiches or a spread for crackers. Another must have is a can of tuna, whether plain or flavored. I usually have a tin of the Bumblebee lemon pepper flavored one. I love this in a simple salad of Romaine lettuce, grape tomatoes and assorted other veggies. I just put a simple vinaigrette on I,t serve it with crackers and it’s a filling yet light dinner. There’s also very little clean up too,
Of course there is the lure of a hot meal , especially after a hard or trying day. To me there’s nothing like a hot open faced roast beef or turkey sandwich. Just buy some fresh sliced meat at your deli counter, along with a jar of gravy and Kaiser rolls. Pour the heated gravy over the open faced sandwich and - voila- a hot comfort food. You can whip up some instant mashed potatoes if your prefer that with your meat and gravy. Another good idea is Knorr‘s Soup mixes. Their cream of leek and cream of spinach is a nice spin on soup and tastes like homemade. You can also cook up their spring vegetable a thin kind of soup, and load it up with orzo or pastina. This creates a flavorful and filling dish in no time. It’s better than a plate of pasta and just as satisfying.
Don’t despair after a busy day. There are plenty of easy , hot or cold filling dinners to make and create. They require very little time and very little effort. All you have to do is just kick back and savor them.
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