Today is both Cinco de Mayo and The Kentucky Derby, Depending on where you are or your tastes , you're either celebrating with tacos or mint juleps. Both demand a party or better yet combine the food for more fun.
Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican 1868 victory over the occupied French army. It's not to be confused with Mexican Independence day which is September 5th, Still Americans ring out all sorts of Mexican goodies with a passion. Parties being held today will probably have all sorts of tacos, including dessert ones stuffed with ice cream, fruit and syrup along with tostados and guacamole. These are easy to make and a fun way to celebrate.A simple dish are just corn chips and ta tasty homemade salsa. This is easy to make. Just cut up tomatoes onion and peppers, add some hot pepper and garlic salt .
The Kentucky derby is another fun food fest. Mostly it reflects the states long history of hard scrabble settlers and cooking. One is burgoo, an easy stew that is made with any meat and vegetable.Try it with beef or pork and a side of cornbread.Another is barbecue which is a sauce laden shredded pork. This is sweet and tangy , usually piled high on a soft roll and served with chips and a Coke. Special to Louisville are the Benedictine made with cream cheese and cucumber and dyed green, Another is the Hot Brown a hot turkey and ham sandwich which is smothered with Mornay sauce.
What better way to celebrate two fun events than with good food. Take your pick or enjoy both. Cinco de Mayo and The Kentucky Derby have both interesting culinary traditions. All are tasty and fun.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Friday, May 4, 2012
Wendy's Fresh Side
Just when you thought the fast food chain Wendy's seemed happy to settle, it shakes things up. It has recently added some new sides. These are innovative and a far cry from what its' competitors are offering. They're a new spin on fast food.
Baked mac, sweet potatoes and chili cheese fries are what you might get at a diner. However the chain is now offering them as part of their new side menu. This is a fresh start from the usual burger barn fare however Wendy's has always been a little cutting edge , more so than McDonald's and Burger King in its' food choices. It offered side salads before a few others did.It was the first to sprinkle the healthier sea salt on its' fries.Wendy's also gave a variety of sauces with their chicken nuggets which was another first too when most were just giving customers only ketchup with theirs.
The new sides are great , especially when paired with other sides. The baked mac is creamy and especially cheesy with shredded cheddar sprinkled on top. Add Wendy's side Caesar salad and it's a filling meal, perfect for an easy and quick dinner. Their sweet potato is a meal in itself, being the sized of the chain;s baked potato. It comes with a cup of a butter and brown sugar mix. and is nicely baked. It's perfect on its' own along with the chili cheese fries. Of course these are the perfect burger go with however , paired with a frosty float, are a great and satisfying snack (however a bit unhealthy thanks to all that red meat and cheese on top - treat yourself to them once in a great while!)
Wendy's is always on the cutting edge of offering interesting food. Their new sides are testimony to this. They are novel for fast food chains usually offering the same dull burgers and fries.
Baked mac, sweet potatoes and chili cheese fries are what you might get at a diner. However the chain is now offering them as part of their new side menu. This is a fresh start from the usual burger barn fare however Wendy's has always been a little cutting edge , more so than McDonald's and Burger King in its' food choices. It offered side salads before a few others did.It was the first to sprinkle the healthier sea salt on its' fries.Wendy's also gave a variety of sauces with their chicken nuggets which was another first too when most were just giving customers only ketchup with theirs.
The new sides are great , especially when paired with other sides. The baked mac is creamy and especially cheesy with shredded cheddar sprinkled on top. Add Wendy's side Caesar salad and it's a filling meal, perfect for an easy and quick dinner. Their sweet potato is a meal in itself, being the sized of the chain;s baked potato. It comes with a cup of a butter and brown sugar mix. and is nicely baked. It's perfect on its' own along with the chili cheese fries. Of course these are the perfect burger go with however , paired with a frosty float, are a great and satisfying snack (however a bit unhealthy thanks to all that red meat and cheese on top - treat yourself to them once in a great while!)
Wendy's is always on the cutting edge of offering interesting food. Their new sides are testimony to this. They are novel for fast food chains usually offering the same dull burgers and fries.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
A New Flip On Pancakes
Pancakes are supposed to be the bland foils for butter and maple syrup. They should take a back step and let the other two flavors shine. However in one recipe this breakfast staple becomes the star.It even is moved to the dessert tray thanks to a punch of taste.
The flavorful flapjacks was the subjects of yesterday's A Good Appetite column in the New York Times Dining section. Melissa Clark, the author, experimented with her usual pancake recipe. Her quest for something different actually started with her having a jar of rhubarb compote. She had paired it with the everyday recipe, yet it just didn't make the fruit's flavor pop. She then tried adding other ingredients which helped it immensely.
The extra oomph came from Greek yogurt and honey along with lemon zest and extra butter. This created a cake like quality to the texture along with a rich flavor. She then added poppy seeds for crunch and a hint of extra flavor too. Before serving she smeared more Greek yogurt and the rhubarb compote on them.It worked. These pancakes also would make an elegant dessert for dinner , almost like a thick crepe Suzette. In fact omit the poppy seeds and you could sub these in for that famed French sweet. Another variation is adding lemon curd and layering the pancakes for a different kind of tea sandwich too.
Pancakes needn't be so boring. Add some Greek yogurt as well as melted butter to enrich the batter. It will give a new kind of flapjack, perfect for breakfast, even better as a new kind of dessert.
The flavorful flapjacks was the subjects of yesterday's A Good Appetite column in the New York Times Dining section. Melissa Clark, the author, experimented with her usual pancake recipe. Her quest for something different actually started with her having a jar of rhubarb compote. She had paired it with the everyday recipe, yet it just didn't make the fruit's flavor pop. She then tried adding other ingredients which helped it immensely.
The extra oomph came from Greek yogurt and honey along with lemon zest and extra butter. This created a cake like quality to the texture along with a rich flavor. She then added poppy seeds for crunch and a hint of extra flavor too. Before serving she smeared more Greek yogurt and the rhubarb compote on them.It worked. These pancakes also would make an elegant dessert for dinner , almost like a thick crepe Suzette. In fact omit the poppy seeds and you could sub these in for that famed French sweet. Another variation is adding lemon curd and layering the pancakes for a different kind of tea sandwich too.
Pancakes needn't be so boring. Add some Greek yogurt as well as melted butter to enrich the batter. It will give a new kind of flapjack, perfect for breakfast, even better as a new kind of dessert.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
True Tacos
Tacos have become a vital part of the American culinary landscape for a long time. People love them because of their ease and taste.Kids love them because they're just fun. This classic started off as other classics, as part of a regular diet.
The dish, as we know,started in Southern California, in San Bernardino, an hour east of Los Angeles. Its' history and evolution was the main topic of an article in today's New York Times' Wednesday Dining section. The piece, expertly investigated and researched by Times regular, Julia Moskin, tells how they were first made in Mitla, a Mexican cafe that has been around since 1937.Here, the tortillas were and still are fried golden yellow and stuffed with spicy beef and blanketed with iceberg lettuce. It's really a Cal Mex creation. There are other Mexican American combos such as bacon wrapped hot dogs wrapped in bollito rolls along with breakfast tacos (stuffed with Tater Tots) and Mexican hamburgers, pressed into a burrito (filled with pork rinds and beans).
Mitla is also known for inspiring the birth of that American classic fast food Taco Bell. It was in 1962 that entrepreneur Glenn Bell, was to cash in on the fast food craze. Jealous of his fellow Southern Californians, the Kroc Brothers of McDonalds fame. He had a stand across from Mitla and would watch the restaurants take out window garner long lines,Bell got the recipe from the cooks and the rest is history. He then went on to create one of the world's favorite dinners and also introduced the taco to the world.I'm glad he did.
The taco is a relatively healthy staple the wold loves, Thanks to CalMex cuisine it is a tasty reminder of the best of hybrid cultures. It is here to stay , in so many variations.
The dish, as we know,started in Southern California, in San Bernardino, an hour east of Los Angeles. Its' history and evolution was the main topic of an article in today's New York Times' Wednesday Dining section. The piece, expertly investigated and researched by Times regular, Julia Moskin, tells how they were first made in Mitla, a Mexican cafe that has been around since 1937.Here, the tortillas were and still are fried golden yellow and stuffed with spicy beef and blanketed with iceberg lettuce. It's really a Cal Mex creation. There are other Mexican American combos such as bacon wrapped hot dogs wrapped in bollito rolls along with breakfast tacos (stuffed with Tater Tots) and Mexican hamburgers, pressed into a burrito (filled with pork rinds and beans).
Mitla is also known for inspiring the birth of that American classic fast food Taco Bell. It was in 1962 that entrepreneur Glenn Bell, was to cash in on the fast food craze. Jealous of his fellow Southern Californians, the Kroc Brothers of McDonalds fame. He had a stand across from Mitla and would watch the restaurants take out window garner long lines,Bell got the recipe from the cooks and the rest is history. He then went on to create one of the world's favorite dinners and also introduced the taco to the world.I'm glad he did.
The taco is a relatively healthy staple the wold loves, Thanks to CalMex cuisine it is a tasty reminder of the best of hybrid cultures. It is here to stay , in so many variations.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Food That Does Taste Good
It is hard to find a snack that's both tasty and healthy.However , the company Food Should Taste Better does just that.Ithas. Created tasty hybrid of chip and cracker that is simply delicious.Not only that it has made snack that leaves you feeling guilt free after a few nibbles.
Food Should Taste Good is relatively new in the world of snacks.Its creator Pete Lescoe came up with this healthy alternative to potato chips in 2006. These have no trans fats or artificial flavorings.Every flavor is made with all natural ingredients to produce a healthy and flavorful snack. They can be good with dips but also can be used in cassaroles or crumbling over a salad.
I recently bought their olive flavor.This was a tasty mix of black and green olives as well as the Greek Kalamata.There was also a hint of garlic salt as well.These would be perfect with a cream cheese garlic dip or even
A tapas spread. Food Should Taste Good also comes in a wide range of flavors from the sweet chocolate and kernel corn to hemp and white cheddar. The web site has a slew of great recipes that incorporate the chips into dishes as well as tasty spreads to try with them.
Food Should Taste Good is a revolutionary snack treat.It combines good ingredients and taste.It now is one of the most wholesome snacks on the market.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Bursts of Energy
The warmer weather brings about the need to exercise along with enjoying sports. With it comes the needs for both drinks and snacks . What are easy and fun to take with you? The first choice is the natural ones. These keep you energized and hydrated for as long as you;re exercising or just having fun.
Water is one of the most essential drinks to have with you for any activity. It keeps you cool and refreshed after a long bike ride or spirited softball game. It's also go for a quick wash if need be. There's nothing like a chilled bottle of clean , crisp spring water.Dasani and Aquafina have the best tasting ones although even a generic band like Stop and Shop's or the A&P's is also good. Another good thing about spring water is that it comes in a variety of bottle sizes from nips to the sports sizes. Water also comes in flavors too, if you want something sweet to go with your snacks. Gatorade is another excellent refresher it's multitude of types are perfect for everything from hikes to marathons.It also come sin a variety of flavors as well.
Food also plays an important part in re energizing. Protein is a must. It gives any active person a burst of energy. The best is either almonds or walnuts .They're easy to bring along and fun to eat. Another good snack are unsalted sunflower seeds.Again these are great because of the protein and vitamins. Fruit chunks or even a banana are other good snacks to breing along on a hike or to a sprting event game.. Melon is perfect because it also hydrates as well as [provides the essentials sugars to go on. Some people are into energy bars. Be warned however.They may be full of sugars along with preservatives. They also may not absorb into body as quickly as fruits
This is the season for activity. Keep hydrated and energized with the right drinks and foods. You;'ll not only feel better be play a better game!
Water is one of the most essential drinks to have with you for any activity. It keeps you cool and refreshed after a long bike ride or spirited softball game. It's also go for a quick wash if need be. There's nothing like a chilled bottle of clean , crisp spring water.Dasani and Aquafina have the best tasting ones although even a generic band like Stop and Shop's or the A&P's is also good. Another good thing about spring water is that it comes in a variety of bottle sizes from nips to the sports sizes. Water also comes in flavors too, if you want something sweet to go with your snacks. Gatorade is another excellent refresher it's multitude of types are perfect for everything from hikes to marathons.It also come sin a variety of flavors as well.
Food also plays an important part in re energizing. Protein is a must. It gives any active person a burst of energy. The best is either almonds or walnuts .They're easy to bring along and fun to eat. Another good snack are unsalted sunflower seeds.Again these are great because of the protein and vitamins. Fruit chunks or even a banana are other good snacks to breing along on a hike or to a sprting event game.. Melon is perfect because it also hydrates as well as [provides the essentials sugars to go on. Some people are into energy bars. Be warned however.They may be full of sugars along with preservatives. They also may not absorb into body as quickly as fruits
This is the season for activity. Keep hydrated and energized with the right drinks and foods. You;'ll not only feel better be play a better game!
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Outdoor Movie Night
Drive ins used to the be the big thing in our American culture. However with only a handful left in the States , towns now are offering a movie night,.This is geared for the whole family from babies to grandparents.The problem is, unlike a regular movie theater, there is no ready and available food. What to bring that's good and tasty for the whole family? There are plenty of fun treats everyone will like.
Everyone likes some kind of cracker with a dip or topping. Rice chips are much more healthier than potato chips and they pack easily into a Styrofoam cooler or picnic basket. Serve with a store bought or homemade salsa for added fun. Pretzels are another easy bring along that everyone likes and they come in different shapes and sizes to suit individual tastes. Fruit and veggie kabobs also make wonderful snacks, especially for the tween set. Layer grape tomatoes , mozzarella cubes and olives or pearl onions for a savory fare. Try pineapple and melon chunks , interspersed with cherries or grapes for a sweeter snack.
Many families bring dinner to these events.Most usually just make the average sandwich and that's it/ Be a little more creative. Take Italian bread and fill it with everyone's favorite meats and cheeses along with a drizzle of olive oil and an sprinkle of oregano. Another idea, especially if there are adults is roasting a London broil or chicken beforehand and bringing it cold to the movies. These would be great with a chilled wine if you can sneak in a bottle or two. If not settle for some sparkling iced tea or juice. Add a cold roasted asparagus salad for a side or a red potato salad done Sicilian style with rosemary and olive oil.
A town's movie night is always fun . Make it even more so by bringing fun snacks and dinners that add more excitement. The family will appreciate a good classic movie and food that matches it.
Everyone likes some kind of cracker with a dip or topping. Rice chips are much more healthier than potato chips and they pack easily into a Styrofoam cooler or picnic basket. Serve with a store bought or homemade salsa for added fun. Pretzels are another easy bring along that everyone likes and they come in different shapes and sizes to suit individual tastes. Fruit and veggie kabobs also make wonderful snacks, especially for the tween set. Layer grape tomatoes , mozzarella cubes and olives or pearl onions for a savory fare. Try pineapple and melon chunks , interspersed with cherries or grapes for a sweeter snack.
Many families bring dinner to these events.Most usually just make the average sandwich and that's it/ Be a little more creative. Take Italian bread and fill it with everyone's favorite meats and cheeses along with a drizzle of olive oil and an sprinkle of oregano. Another idea, especially if there are adults is roasting a London broil or chicken beforehand and bringing it cold to the movies. These would be great with a chilled wine if you can sneak in a bottle or two. If not settle for some sparkling iced tea or juice. Add a cold roasted asparagus salad for a side or a red potato salad done Sicilian style with rosemary and olive oil.
A town's movie night is always fun . Make it even more so by bringing fun snacks and dinners that add more excitement. The family will appreciate a good classic movie and food that matches it.
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